Mountain Xpress 10.29.25

to

news to GREEN@MOUNTAINX.COM

11

BARE-BONES OPERATION

This Halloween marks the oneyear anniversary of Skeletown, an evolving, year-round art installation created by North Asheville neighbors John Batovsky and Valerie Holstein. The two creators say the project, which is situated on Batovsky’s front lawn on Chestnut Street, was in part a response to Tropical Storm Helene. After the storm, “It was especially important for us to do a fun setup for the kids,” Holstein says.

COVER

Thomas Calder

COVER

Caleb Johnson and Scott Southwick

PUBLISHER & EDITOR: Jeff Fobes

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER: Susan Hutchinson

MANAGING EDITOR: Thomas Calder

EDITOR: Gina Smith

OPINION EDITOR: Tracy Rose

STAFF REPORTERS:

Thomas Calder, Brionna Dallara, Justin McGuire, Brooke Randle, Gina Smith

COMMUNITY CALENDAR & CLUBLAND: Braulio Pescador-Martinez

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHER: Caleb Johnson

ADVERTISING, ART & DESIGN MANAGER: Susan Hutchinson

LEAD DESIGNER: Scott Southwick

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Tina Gaafary, Caleb Johnson, Olivia Urban

MARKETING ASSOCIATES: Emily Baughman, Sara Brecht, Dave Gayler

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES: Jeff Fobes, Mark Murphy, Scott Southwick

WEB: Brandon Tilley

BOOKKEEPER: Amie Fowler

OFFICE MANAGER: Mark Murphy

FRONT OFFICE: Caitlin Donovan, Lisa Watters

DISTRIBUTION: Susan Hutchinson

DISTRIBUTION DRIVERS: Cass Kunst, Cindy Kunst, Courtney Israel Nash, Joey Nash, Carl & Debbie Schweiger, Gary Selnick, Noah Tanner, Mark Woodyard

Parton aims to make Woodfin better for all residents

It’s a rare occasion when you meet someone with integrity, intelligence and humor (and really good hair!). And when they step up to lead, it’s a good day for all of us.

I’m writing in support of Chip Parton, candidate for Woodfin Town Council. Chip is a plumber and small-business owner who took an interest in his hometown of Woodfin. He recognized his neighborhood on the west side of the French Broad River didn’t receive the same level of services, despite paying the same level of taxes. His campaign to de-annex from the town was struck down by its Council. So he decided to run.

He seeks election to Woodfin Town Council to keep them honest. Chip is for clean water and mountainsides. He believes development should be healthy, not hefty. He is endorsed by the Sierra Club. He is born and raised in Woodfin and aims to make the town better for all of its residents on both sides of the river.

Vote Chip for Woodfin in the election on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

— Paul Choi Asheville

King would bring experience to Weaverville

Mountain Xpress is without a doubt the “most-read publication” in our area. Who doesn’t pick up the latest copy to follow local events, news and opinions? I certainly do, and as mayor of neighboring Woodfin, reading the Xpress helps me stay informed of my residents’ needs and views.

In keeping with that theme, I urge Weaverville voters to vote for David

King for Town Council. His experience as a former county commissioner and member of the A-B Tech board of trustees has given him a wide view of Weaverville, and believe it or not, he’s on his neighborhood’s homeowners association board, the toughest job out there. It takes a great team to help staff run a happening town like Weaverville. I should know, right? Please vote for David King, Weaverville Town Council on Nov. 4. — Jim McAllister Mayor, Town of Woodfin

Withstanding glacial pace of Helene recovery

Tropical Storm Helene “recovery” has been moving at a glacial pace because of Machiavellian reasons and Byzantine processes: Officials not preparing because “it wasn’t sup-

RiverRock Clinic

Primary Care Physician Taking New Patients

of delay, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) paid me only a fraction of the estimated repair costs.

I’m on my sole remaining option — state-funded Renew NC with a $90,000 cap and only four Raleigh employees reviewing 4,000 applications for historic, century-old houses. After a year of the hurry-up and wait game, zero repair and a soggy summer continued to worsen the damage. For me, as for others, this needless bureaucratic stress has compounded the trauma.

What to do? Educate yourself: Watch the sobering PBS Frontline documentary, Hurricane Helene’s Deadly Warning . Prevent future disaster: Establish or join a neighborhood association, CAN (Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods) or the Tree Protection Task Force. Raise hell: Bombard state representatives and federal appointees slow-walking disaster funding of our needs as taxpaying voters.

posed to happen here” and refusal to heed decades of local expert activists and NASA calls for green, permeable climate resilience; prioritizing businesses before homes; difficulty in proving repair eligibility; stingy funding; and obsolete estimates due to building material tariffs.

Help requires compliance with arbitrary rules and subjective damage assessments by mandatory homeowner insurance corporations and federal and state entities. It takes a computer whiz to upload dozens of proofs such as “before” and “after” pictures of walls. Helene obliterated evidence, and not all had online access or form-submitting savvy — without which, victims can’t even get contractors’ and agencies’ inspections.

My decades of insurance payments yielded zip because the corporation gave gobbledygook for denying my coverage. After months

— Queen Lady Passion (aka Dixie Deerman) Asheville

Editor’s note : Queen Lady Passion has run the nonprofit Coven Oldenwilde in West Asheville since 1994. You can reach her via oldenwilde.org or wiccans.org.

Pickleball concerns are overblown

[ Regarding “Sound and Fury: Weaverville Struggles to Balance Pickleball and Neighborhood Noise Concerns,” Oct. 8, Xpress:] I am an avid pickleball player and frequent the courts four-five times a week. I believe the few residents who are complaining about the noise are exaggerating. In fact, when I drive down Lakeshore Drive on my

CONTINUES ON PAGE 6

HomeSource

J.S.

Innovex

Kaizen

Mountain

Scroggs

Silver

Sineath

Solid

Ward

way to the courts, I pass one of the homes of a complaining resident, and I hear nothing coming from the courts. And yes, plenty of people are there playing!

This is a recreational area for residents to enjoy and have fun. Just because the courts were not there when some residents bought their home does not mean there’s wrongdoing by the town of Weaverville.

Neighborhoods change!

This is why homeowners sometimes put their home on the market.

If any of the residents are interested in selling their home, the pickleball courts have probably helped increase their value. I’ll be more than happy to help them with the process, as I do have my real estate license.

— Sharon Lightle Weaverville

Embrace the benefits of pickleball

[ Regarding “Sound and Fury: Weaverville Struggles to Balance Pickleball and Neighborhood Noise Concerns,” Oct. 8, Xpress:]

I am a resident of Weaverville and play at the town’s pickleball courts, which are a three-minute walk from my house. While the courts are in a residential neighborhood, town officials have taken numerous actions to address the neighbors’ noise concerns.

We are the only pickleball facility in Buncombe County (all located in residential neighborhoods) that

locks the facility outside of operational hours; has installed heavy noise barriers on all the courts and planted additional trees to buffer the sound (costing about $30,000); adopted ordinances related to being in a residential neighborhood; has no lights on the courts; has specific hours for different times of year; and has the fewest hours of operation.

None of these actions have satisfied the complaining neighbors who are insisting that the courts be “relocated” or closed. This can’t be a serious option given the town’s investment in this facility. I can’t imagine any elected official saying we’re going to close this popular new facility (i.e., we wasted $485,000 of your taxpayer dollars) at the same time the Council voted to increase the property taxes by 3 cents this year in order to bring in about $400,000 to meet town needs. You can’t pick up the facility and move it somewhere else, so to “relocate,” the town would have to spend another $485,000-plus on something new.

The town has made it clear from the beginning that the pickleball courts (and associated “noise”) are not in violation of any of the town’s ordinances (noise, nuisance, zoning or public notification requirements).

The town has bent over backward to address the noise concerns of a few neighbors. It’s time to put this issue to bed and embrace the benefits that this new facility is bringing to many residents of all ages in our community.

— Darla J. Letourneau Weaverville

Hospital competition can’t hurt

[Regarding the Xpress newsletter question: “Is the community better served by having more hospital competition?” and the Asheville Watchdog article “Presentation on Weaverville Hospital Sparks Tense Exchange Between AdventHealth Official, Mission CEO,” Oct. 6, via the Xpress website:]

With hospitals closing all over the country, it can’t hurt. There are areas now, in Georgia, for example, where there are no intensive care units within large rural areas. So, sure, be lucky we’re in an area where hospitals are opening, not closing.

— Gary James Asheville

Pick up the pace on Lyman Street

Asheville went to a lot of expense and investment in the River Arts District’s Riverside Drive and Lyman Street corridor. We now have great trails that allow sufficient navigation by pedestrians and bike riders as well. With all the massive destruction of Helene, we now have lost a lot of our beloved River Arts District businesses that used to line that stretch of road.

Over this past year, since the flooding, I’ve often traveled that road to bypass a lot of the traffic downtown to get to all points in Biltmore, Sweeten Creek Road and Hendersonville Road areas. Why do we continue to have such lame speed limits on Lyman Street when we now have no issues with walkers/bikers? My thoughts are that we should increase speed limits to at least 45 mph to expedite the traffic around Asheville, to lessen town congestion and get you where you need to be sooner. I can visualize doing that until the rebuilding begins and there is a legitimate reason for such low speed limits.

— Paul Stockman Woodfin

Federal shutdowns affect local families

When the federal government shuts down, it’s not politicians who feel it first — it’s families here in Western North Carolina.

As someone living in Asheville, I’ve seen how instability ripples through our community. A shutdown puts nutrition programs like WIC (for women, infants and children) at risk, threatens innovative health services such as Hospital-at-Home, and leaves federal employees and service members uncertain about pay. These

interruptions harm real people — not abstract budgets.

I’ve contacted Rep. Chuck Edwards to ask him to support a clean, bipartisan funding bill to reopen the government and to stand firmly against future shutdowns. North Carolina’s 11th District deserves representatives who value stability over political brinkmanship.

Shutdowns don’t make our nation stronger — they erode confidence and strain the very systems that keep us safe and healthy. I believe leadership means listening to the people who live and work here, not the loudest voices in Washington.

Let’s choose cooperation over chaos. Our communities, families and future depend on it.

— Joanie Speaks Asheville X

Word of the week slough (intrans. v.) to cast off one’s skin

There are actually a number of additional definitions for this word. But we spotlighted this particular one because of its use in our latest Wellness story by contributing writer Ashley English. For more, turn to Page 19. Casting off one’s skin also ties in nicely with our cover story about skeleton decor! X

OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/2025

Additional funding

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners approved $14 million in funds to support a slate of Tropical Storm Helene recovery projects during its Oct. 21 meeting.

The money will be used for engineering work on landslides, repairs to damaged infrastructure and design planning for park restoration — including Swannanoa’s Charles D. Owen Park, a popular green space that was devastated by flooding from Helene.

The funding will also establish a new county recovery office, staffed by five grant-funded positions (two fiscal analysts and three project managers) to oversee storm-related work. On Oct. 23, the county named Kevin Madsen as the county’s first recovery officer.

John Hudson, the county’s budget director, said most of the money will be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). For approved projects, the county can get up to 75% of the cost covered right away, but full repayment could take four to six years.

“It’s a long process, and we’re planning accordingly,” he said.

HELP: Buncombe County Budget Director John Hudson spoke to the Board of Commissioners about Tropical Storm Helene recovery funding. Screen grab courtesy of Buncombe County

Landslide, road and park recovery efforts are considered “permanent work” under FEMA’s public assistance program. Additional grant sources may be needed for the full restoration of sites like Owen Park, Hudson noted.

Tim Love, assistant county manager, said the Grovemont neighborhood of Swannanoa, which experienced landslides that killed two people, will be a top priority for remediation.

Design work is expected to begin soon, following contract negotiations.

“We’re using Grovemont as a pilot to better understand the scale of

what’s needed,” Love said. “This engineering phase will help determine the best solution before we return to FEMA for construction funding approval.”

Additional Helene recovery efforts, including flood plain assessments, park damage evaluations and private road and bridge programs, are continuing as well, Hudson said.

In other news:

• County Public Health Director Ellis Matheson briefed commissioners about the approaching respiratory virus season, warning of possible surges in COVID-19, flu and RSV. While new RSV vaccines may ease any hospital strain, flu and COVID-19 remain serious risks, particularly for children, seniors and medically vulnerable residents, she said. Matheson urged residents to get vaccinat-

ed early, noting that vaccines are available at pharmacies, health providers and the county’s clinic at 40 Coxe Ave. She also encouraged basic prevention measures like hand-washing and staying home when sick. The county is promoting vaccine access through mobile clinics and public outreach efforts.

• The Health and Human Services (HHS) board presented its annual report, highlighting key initiatives and storm recovery efforts. Board Chair Daniel Frayne praised members for their hands-on support following Helene, including helping residents apply for emergency food benefits. The board also continued backing a pilot harm-reduction program targeting substance use and smoking, which has shown early success. HHS Director David Sweat warned of ongoing challenges, including effects from recent federal legislation and the federal government shutdown, which could disrupt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, Children (WIC) benefits. The board’s priorities for the coming year include strengthening disaster preparedness and ensuring continuity of services during emergencies.

• Commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning request for a 0.92-acre property at 2596 Hendersonville Road, owned by Kevin Edens. The land will be rezoned from R-2 residential to CS commercial. County Planner Haylee Madfis said the change aligns with Buncombe County’s comprehensive plan and surrounding land use, which includes retail, offices and warehouse storage. The property is in a mixed-use area near city water and sewer access, with no nearby residential homes directly impacted.

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

Fluid knowledge

UNCA lecture series on water connects science and storytelling

BY JUSTIN M c GUIRE

jmcguire@mountainx.com

What do a hydrologist and a literary scholar have in common?

At UNC Asheville this week, the answer is water — and a new lecture series connecting science, storytelling and Southern Indigenous survival.

On Thursday, Oct. 30, the university will launch “Rising Waters: Writing Place and Environment,” a three-year interdisciplinary series of talks. The inaugural event, “Southern Indigenous Waters,” will feature Ryan Emanuel, a Lumbee hydrologist from Duke University, and Kirstin Squint, a literary scholar from East Carolina University. Together, they’ll explore the cultural, scientific and narrative significance of water in the American South.

“Even collaboration within the same division — like between a historian and a literary scholar — can be rare,” says UNCA English professor Erica Abrams Locklear, the series curator. "So crossing divisions between the humanities and the sciences is an even bigger leap.”

With two events per school year over the next three years, the series aims to chart a geographic and thematic journey across the South, from Louisiana to Kentucky, she says.

Xpress spoke with Locklear about the series’ origins, its interdisciplinary focus and why she chose to begin with Southern Indigenous waters.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Xpress: How did the series get started?

Locklear: When I was named the Thomas Howerton Distinguished Professor of Humanities at UNC Asheville, I had the opportunity — really the privilege — to create a lecture series. The idea is to choose a topic of broad interest, not just for our campus community but also for the region and beyond. This is my second term in the role. In my first term, I ran a series on Southern foodways.

For my second term, I’d already been thinking about water, but after Hurricane Helene, the urgency of the topic really struck me. Discussions around water often focus on science — flooding, geology, environmental risk — but rarely include the humanities. I wanted to explore how water is represented by historians and in literature, and what happens when we bring those

voices into the same room as natural scientists.

The structure is a three-year series with a scholarly event each fall and a creative event each spring. Each year has a theme, and the fall and spring events are connected.

The theme this year is Southern Indigenous waters. Next year, we’ll focus on Appalachian flooding. In the third year, we’ll look at hydraulic dams and broader issues around water containment — why we do it and what impact it has. Each year continues this interdisciplinary approach, blending the humanities with the natural sciences.

Why is that interdisciplinary approach important to you?

In academia, it’s easy to get siloed in your discipline. But I’m excited to bring people into conversation across those divides and to model for our audiences how to do that. There’s more common ground than we think. Humanities perspectives can help communicate scientific data in more accessible and impactful ways.

I also hope students will see those connections. Maybe a biology major attends a talk and decides to explore a literature course, or vice versa.

Why did you start the series with a focus on Southern Indigenous waters?

I started by thinking about geography. I wanted to begin in the eastern part of North Carolina, even a bit far-

ther south in Louisiana, and then move west and north through the series.

One of our speakers [Squint] is talking about Native communities in Louisiana, hurricanes and how water is represented in literature. Then we move up to Eastern North Carolina, where Dr. Emanuel will discuss his new book, On the Swamp

Next year, we’ll move to Western North Carolina, and in the spring, to Kentucky, then circle back again. So it’s a kind of geographic and thematic journey across the South.

For those unfamiliar with the topic, what do you mean by “Southern Indigenous waters?”

It’s not just about water systems; it’s also about cultural connection to water.

Dr. Emanuel described his talk as focusing on what it means to build and maintain cultural connections to water and watery places during rapid environmental change. He begins his book by discussing the Lumbee River and its significance to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. He’s a hydrologist, so he brings in data: waterways, water quality, the effects of nearby industries. But he also addresses cultural meaning.

Our other speaker, Dr. Squint, approaches similar themes from a literary perspective. She’s looking at how Southern Indigenous people in Louisiana have experienced decades of hurricanes, from Katrina to Helene, and how those experiences are depicted in literature.

So the question becomes: If you live in a place where water shapes your daily life, how do you tell that story — as a scientist and as a writer?

What do you hope people take away from this series — both from the upcoming event and the series as a whole?

First, I hope people enjoy the talks and find them engaging. But beyond that, I want them to expand the way they think about water.

After Hurricane Helene, much of the conversation was understandably about infrastructure — water access, water quality, how water moves. But humanities perspectives ask different questions: How is water represented in literature? What cultural or historical identity is tied to certain bodies of water?

Those perspectives aren’t separate from environmental science; they can deepen and complement each other.

I’d emphasize that this series isn’t just about scholarship; it’s also about creative expression. The fall is the scholarly event, and the spring features a creative speaker.

For example, this February [Thursday, Feb. 12, 6 p.m.], we’ll host Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and a novelist. She often talks about how vital nature is to her writing process. She literally immerses herself in natural spaces to think about plot, character and setting.

So she’s drawing on the same themes — place, water, the environment — that Ryan Emanuel will speak about as a hydrologist. That kind of connection is what the series is all about.

“Southern Indigenous Waters” will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, in the Blue Ridge Room of UNCA’s Highsmith Student Union. Registration is encouraged for the free event. For more information or to register, go to avl.mx/f5n. X

Bare-bones operation

BY CALEB JOHNSON

cjohnson@mountainx.com

When North Asheville neighbors and artists Valerie Holstein and John Batovsky collaborated to create a 2023 Halloween skeleton stripper display on the latter's front lawn, they weren't envisioning a larger, multiyear art project. If anything, the two were worried about what their neighbors on Chestnut Street would think.

“We were concerned it was too iffy for the neighborhood, but everyone seemed to enjoy it,” Batovsky says. “It put a lot of smiles on people’s faces, so we ran with it the following Halloween.”

The second display — a skeleton wedding featuring a 12-foot bride — went up in September 2024. Soon thereafter, Tropical Storm Helene tore through Western North Carolina. On the day of the storm, the bride was toppled but later resurrected and given a raincoat.

Since that time, the skeletons have remained positioned on Batovsky's yard, with new scenes and themes spawning every couple of months. Despite the unusual decor, the two neighbors have viewed the project, which they call Skeletown, as a way to restore a sense of normalcy post-Helene.

“It was especially important for us to do a fun setup for the kids,” Holstein says.

Subsequent displays have paid homage to Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick's Day, Easter and the back-to-school season.

Now, with Halloween upon us, the team has returned to its roots and original source of inspiration. Granted, their inventory has grown.

“We started with about four or five skeletons, then every so often I’d see Valerie jump out of the car with a big smile and a box,” says Batovsky. “I knew it was a new part of our support system.”

MESSAGES FROM THE MARROW

Located between Merrimon Avenue and Broadway, the home draws heavy foot and car traffic. Neighbors stroll by daily to catch new details. For the most part, Batovsky and Holstein have remained apolitical with their Skeletown displays. “We don’t want to put any dividing lines up,” says Batovsky.

However, they do embrace occasional local causes such as their collaboration with Save the Woods, a neighborhood group seeking to preserve the 45-acre urban forest on the UNC Asheville campus. When members from the movement approached the duo about a scene

A pair of neighbors bring year-round skeleton displays to North Asheville

SCREAM TEAM: This Halloween marks the one-year anniversary of Skeletown, an ever-changing, year-round art installation by neighbors and artists Valerie Holstein, left, and John Batovsky, right. They say the project, situated on Batovsky's front lawn on Chestnut Street, will continue to evolve. Photo by Caleb Johnson

dedicated to the cause, they decided to jump in. The result was a display of skeletons donning “Save the Woods” signs, with one skeleton fitted with a blazer and blue glasses, resembling UNCA Chancellor Kimberly van Noort

“We felt like it was important enough to our neighborhood,” Holstein says. “It felt like a good stage to help them be seen by our community.”

Occasional calls on Instagram and Facebook have led some residents to contribute props, such as when the project collected stuffed animals to incorporate into a design.

“We had some younger kids teetering on the edge of giving up their special stuffed animal,” says Batovsky. “This was a perfect chance for them to feel like it was a good thing, and it let them step into a new place in their life.”

There have also been offerings from the community that arrived as a pleasant surprise for the Skeletown crew. For example, during their backto-school setup, a few passersby saw the display under construction and stopped by to contribute their old graduation gowns to adorn the skeletons. For their current Halloween 2025 display, a Beetlejuice-inspired theme, folks approached the home and dropped off rat and pig skeletons.

WHO NEEDS SPEED BUMPS?

Not being part of a homeowners association means one less thing to worry about, Batovsky says.

But early on, Holstein adds, the pair did fret about theft. “We thought we might need to tie the skeletons down or someone would take them,” she recalls. But after a year of being on display, Skeletown hasn’t faced a single act of vandalism.

“I feel as though the community has such a high level of respect for what we are doing,” Batovsky says.

Their only incident? “A passerby in a frantic state started rearranging parts of the yard,” Batovsky says with a laugh. “It was harmless enough — I guess we just have outside collaborators.”

Traffic, on the other hand, has become an unintended consequence. “We might’ve made traffic worse,” Batovsky jokes. “But then I realized — who needs speed bumps? We are the speed bump. People slow down to check out our house immediately.”

FLESHING IT OUT

After one full cycle of various themes, Batovsky has had concerns about repeating displays. “Doing the

same holidays over and over, we worry about interest being lost. So we are talking about doing movie themes ... like Gremlins for Christmas.”

For now, the two are keeping themselves open to ideas. “By not making definitive plans, it allows the creativity to free-form itself,” Batovsky says.

They also have ambitions to one day be included in a city tour.

They point to a former neighbor, Jesse Case, as inspiration. “Before he passed away, our neighbor collected probably over 300 wind chimes and 300 yard statues. City tours would start going by the house. I think we could get there someday,” Holstein says. “After he passed away, we salvaged the wind chimes. We are going to clean them up and create one or two mobile wind chimes, in his honor ... with a plaque for his name.”

Regardless of whether or not Skeletown lands on a city tour’s radar, its creators say neighbors and passersby can expect the displays to evolve. One idea the pair recently tossed around involved inviting a mime to perform among the props, though no actor has been hired at this point.

“That is just the creativity and the morphing of this thing,” Batovsky says. X

BY CHLOE LIEBERMAN

The beautiful autumn sunlight dances off gorgeously crimson sourwood leaves. Little radish plants look cute as they grow quickly. And this is my last gardening feature for 2025, but I’ll be back in early spring of 2026. It’s been fun answering your questions this year, and I look forward to more!

I have two varieties of fig growing, and they both die back every winter. This year I have one fig that I may actually get to eat and a number of smaller ones that have come on the plant in the last month or so. Will they have time to grow and ripen before it gets cold?

Oh, the yearning for figs we feel in these mountains! I certainly do hope that your figs ripen to their sweet, juicy splendor before it gets cold. But I don’t have the power to predict the weather, so I can’t say for sure. Most fig varieties take about 75-120 days to mature once fruits have formed, though some can ripen in as quickly as 60 days in warm weather. One such quick-fig is a very popular variety in this area called Chicago Hardy. If that’s what you’re growing, and the baby figs have started to change color, your chances are good. In our area, it’s important to choose early maturing varieties, along with varieties that are cold-hardy enough to only die back to the roots in very cold weather, rather than dying completely. There are various methods for keeping the aboveground parts of fig trees alive through the winter, which I’ll share below, but even if you succeed at this, our warm season is short for most types of figs, which is why early maturing varieties are the way to go. Some figs can produce two crops per year: an early crop on last year’s growth, called a “breba” crop; and the main crop on new growth. Last year’s growth also tends to be higher in lignin, which improves cold-hardiness. And the plant hormones that are active in second-year fig branches and leaves are more conducive to fruiting, even though most fruits occur on new growth. All this means that keeping the

SIGNING OFF: In her final gardening feature of the year, Chloe Lieberman addresses concerns readers have about their fig and pawpaw trees. Photos courtesy of Lieberman

aboveground parts of figs alive through the winter can have many benefits.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to bend some branches down close to the ground, keep them there with rocks or other weights and pile insulation material such as straw or dry leaves on top of them. The earth maintains a steady temperature, even when the air temperature goes way down. If the branches are close to the earth and covered in something that traps heat, they’ll often survive.

An elaboration on this can include a black barrel of water (the bigger the better) on the south side of your fig tree, which absorbs and then radiates heat from the sun, plus insulation material such as leaves or straw on the north side. Fashioning a “corral” for the insulation made of fencing can help keep it all in place. The trees can be pruned back so that this whole operation doesn’t need to take up a huge amount of space. Remember, most fig fruits grow on new growth, so we’re just wanting to keep some of last year’s growth alive for the smaller breba crop (with applicable varieties) and to impart hormonal and hardiness benefits that can help with early fruiting the coming year.

Growing figs in a greenhouse is another obvious way to give them the climate control they need to stay alive through the cold. If you’ve got a green-

house to do this in, be sure to leave a lot of space — fig trees can grow to be huge. Regular pruning can keep them from taking over. Another option is to put up a high-tunnel or caterpillar tunnel where you’ve got figs growing. This can be a simple DIY version made of PVC pipe arches covered in greenhouse plastic and secured with rope or a more formal affair made by an agricultural supplier.

In a cold year it may get too chilly for figs in a setup like this, so adding an electric heater can help. I’ve had success running incandescent (not LED) party lights along the fig branches and turning them on when it gets really cold. Planting figs near a rock wall or other feature in the landscape that absorbs and radiates heat can also make the few degrees difference that is needed to keep them alive.

There are literally hundreds of varieties of fruiting figs, and in our climate, choosing the right variety is key.

My friend Cailen Campbell at Bittersweet Farm and Nursery in Weaverville has been trialing fig varieties and choosing those that do best in our conditions. His favorites are Florea, Ronde de Bordeaux and Yellow Greek. Chicago Hardy, which is very popular here, is about a month later than these three but still worth planting, in his opinion. He stocks all of these varieties and much more. (He specializes in varieties adapted to our conditions and has apples, pears, mulberries, figs and many other kinds of interesting fruits). You can find him on Facebook.

I have two pawpaw trees, and only one has fruit this year. Both had fruit last year. Why might this be? Also, they

have suckers growing from their roots. Will they fruit?

Pawpaws, and many other fruit trees, cannot pollinate themselves and need to receive pollen from a genetically distinct tree. Since both of your trees fruited last year, it seems likely that they are genetically distinct and can pollinate one another (or that someone in your neighborhood is also growing pawpaws), so that’s not looking like the issue. Now on to the question of how pollination happens, which might be the culprit. If you’ve ever smelled a pawpaw flower, you might be able to guess what kinds of insects usually do the pollinating. Hint: Pawpaw flowers smell like yeasty rotting meat. That’s right, flies and beetles are the natural pollinators of this native tree. Since these types of insects aren’t as focused on pollinating as more traditional flower matchmakers such as butterflies and bees, it can be helpful to do some hand-pollinating to ensure a good fruit set. Some folks say that hanging rotting meat in the trees will help attract pollinators, but hand-pollinating is more appealing to me!

Pawpaw flowers are small and maroon and honestly pretty cool looking. When they first open, the flowers have prominent female parts, called stigmas. When these stigmas are enlarged and glistening, they’re ready to receive pollen. (It sounds sexy because it is: This is how pawpaws “do it.”) The same flowers then mature their male parts, called pistils, that produce and release pollen. The trick is to find already mature male flowers and then bring their pollen to recently opened flowers that have mature female parts. You can snip off the pollen-coated flowers and dust them on the receptive female parts or use a very soft brush to collect and transfer the pollen.

The suckers that you see sprouting up from the roots of your existing trees will be able to bear fruit, but they will also need pollinators. If your existing pawpaw trees are grafted (meaning that the roots and aboveground parts are different varieties that have been spliced together), then the flowers from the suckers will be genetically distinct from your existing trees; they will be genetically identical to the rootstock, but not the aboveground parts of what’s already growing. If the trees you’ve already got are from seed, then their suckers will be genetic clones and unable to pollinate their parent trees.

If you have the room and desire for more pawpaw trees in your yard, I would personally go for more distinct new varieties. So, if you’ve got grafted trees, the suckers will be “new” varieties. If the trees are from seed, I’d go with planting some new varieties, which will contribute to pollination and can increase overall yield. X

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

 Online-only events

 More info, page 26

WELLNESS

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 (10/29, 11/5), 11:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Intermediate Tai Chi

Yang 24

Slow, gentle movements that promote good health.

FR (10/31), 10:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Teen Fitness Group workouts are fun and challenging, with modifications available for different levels to maximize workouts safely.

FR (10/31), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

The Professor's Tai Chi

This class is a step up from the Beginners Class and is a great class for those who have studied Yang 37.

SA (11/1), 8:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

The Art of Yoga: Fall Series

Each class pass and yoga session includes a guided mindful looking session in one of the Museum’s exhibitions.

SA (11/1), 9:30am, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Himalayan Sound

Bath Meditation

Immerse yourself in a somatic journey of sound and relaxation, where ancient wisdom meets modern well-being.

SA (11/1), 11am, Somatic Sounds, 157 S Lexington Ave B1

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 devotion.

SA (11/1), 7:30pm, W Asheville Yoga, 602 Haywood Rd

Barn Yoga

Community yoga class with Fairview-based yogi Mary Beth, who teaches a gentle and vinyasa flow.

SU (11/2), 10am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

Sunday Morning Meditation Group

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

SU (11/2), 10am, The Lodge at Quietude, 1130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Yoga Taco Mosa

Come honor one another in yoga practice lead by Clare Desmelik. Bring your mat, a water bottle, and an open heart.

SU (11/2), 10am, The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave

Sunday Sound Bath

Meditation

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

SU (11/2), 11am, Somatic Sounds, 157 S Lexington Ave B1

Sunday Sound Baths

These sound experiences weave reiki and sound for nervous system regulation and energetic balance.

SU (11/2), noon, Ritual Skin and Wellness, 802 Fairview Rd building 3000 Ste 11

Dr. Grant Gym Rats

A fun and active P.E. program specifically for homeschooled students that offers a variety of physical activities, games, and sports.

MO (11/3), 11:45am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Chen Tai Chi

It is considered a very high level of Tai Chi. MO (11/3), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Qigong for Health & Resilience

This class is an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to learn traditional

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

GOOD VS. EVIL MASQUERADE: Marquee’s popular Halloween masquerade returns this year on Thursday, Oct. 30. The party begins at 6 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to wear costumes to express the theme of good vs. evil, such as your favorite hero or villain, angel or demon, etc. The night will also feature a local DJ, live entertainment, refreshments and a costume contest with a prize. Photo courtesy of Marquee

Qigong exercises.

TU (11/4), 9am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109 Chair Aerobics

Workout

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

TU (11/4), noon, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

Baguazhang Level 1

It is considered a very advanced style of Kung Fu with its complex use of geometry and physics.

TU (11/4), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Training w/Tre for Teens

This teen exercise program will help you begin your fitness journey.

TU (11/4), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Tai Chi Fan

The Fan forms include movements from Yang, Chen and Sun styles of Tai Chi.

WE (11/5), 1pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Nia Dance

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

TH (11/6), 9:30am, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Thursday Evening Sound Bath

These sessions focus on nervous system regulation, energetic balance, and seasonal, lunar, and solar alignment.

TH (11/6), 7pm, Ritual Skin and Wellness, 802 Fairview Rd building 3000 Ste 11

SUPPORT GROUPS

Disordered Eating/ Eating Disorders

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

WE (10/29, 11/5), 6pm, Online

Abortion is Healthcare

A gathering for people pre or post abortion procedures. Facilitated by Sarah Eisenstein, everyone is welcome to gather in a spirit of

mutual support and honoring.

TH (10/30), 9am, A Healing Portal, 55.5 Broadway

Reconnecting Through Hard Times

In this 1-hour virtual training you’ll gain an understanding of how hard times affect us all, and what to do or say for others when it matters most. Register at avl.mx/f0s.

TH (10/30, 11/6), 12pm, Online

Nicotine Anonymous

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

TH (10/30, 11/6), 4:30pm, Asheville 12-Step Recovery Club, 1 Kenilworth Knolls Unit 4

Marijuana Anonymous

Whether you’re exploring sobriety, new to recovery, or

have been on this path for a while, you are welcome here.

TH (10/30, 11/6), 6:30pm, American Legion Post #2, 851 Haywood Rd

Atheist Meetup

This little Atheist group invites anyone who doesn’t believe in religions to come chat with like-minded people.

SU (11/2), 10am, Earth Fare, 66 Westgate Parkway

Staying Grounded in Shaky Times

A spiritual practice, support, and discussion group for seekers. It will explore a variety of spiritual practices including meditation, breathwork, meditative movement and more. MO (11/3), 2pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave Parkinson’s Support Group Monthly meeting for the Parkinson’s

Support Group of Asheville. Relevant educational presentation and time to greet friends and meet new ones.

TU (11/4), 10am, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd

Virtual Listening Circle

This free virtual listening circle offers a judgement-free, trauma-informed spaced to gather, reset and reflect-together.

Register at avl.mx/f29.

WE (11/5), noon, Online

DANCE

Country Line Dancing w/Kristey

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

WE (10/29, 11/5), 6pm, Eda’s Hide-aWay, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville Open-Level Adult Contemporary Dance (Ages 16+)

Rediscover your love of movement in this drop-in Adult Contemporary class. Blend modern, lyrical, and jazz elements in a supportive, body-posi-

tive environment.

WE (10/29, 11/5), 5:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W. State St, Black Mountain Open-Level Adult Ballet Class (Ages 16+)

Whether you’re a first-timer or returning to the barre, this class offers physical and emotional benefits through timeless technique.

WE (10/29, 11/5), 6:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Latin Night Wednesday w/DJ Mtn Vibez

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

WE (10/29, 11/5), 8pm, One World Brewing West, 520 Haywood Rd

BMCA Dance: Kids in Motion 2

This class focuses on growing the foundations needed for many dance techniques, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, and lyrical.

TH (10/30, 11/6),

3:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

We Line Dance Instructor Brenda Mills leads an all-inclusive exercise class using line dancing to get your body moving.

TH (10/30, 11/6), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

BMCA Dance: Contemporary 3 (Ages 13 - 16)

This class fuses contemporary, modern, lyrical, and jazz styles for diverse dance knowledge. Designed for experienced teens to refine artistry, technique, and performance.

TH (10/30, 11/6), 6:45pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 W State St, Black Mountain

Asheville Community Square Dance

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

SA (11/1), 7pm, Haw Creek Commons, 315 Old Haw Creek Rd

Ecstatic Dance Wave w/DJ Occultus

An ecstatic dance wave of heavy music and community ritual for shedding and disintegration.

SA (11/1), 8pm, The Well, 3 Louisiana Ave

Monday Night Contra Dance

Contra dancing is a fun, social dance for everyone. Follow a lesson at 7 p.m. and then dance to a live band and caller at 7:30 p.m.

MO (11/3), 7:30pm, A-B Tech, 340 Victoria Rd

ART

Tintype Time Capsule. Marshall After the Flood

A powerful solo exhibition of wet plate collodion photography by Sarah Jones Decker that documents downtown Marshall after Helene with tintypes created out of the back of her Subaru Outback mobile darkroom. Gallery open Monday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through

Oct. 30.

Weizenblatt Art Gallery at MHU, 79 Cascade St, Mars Hill Modern Bestiary: Creatures from the Collection

This exhibition explores the artistic legacy of the medieval bestiary through a selection of animals and fantastic beasts from the Museum’s Collection. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through March 15, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Lasting Legacies: Architecture in Asheville by Richard Sharp Smith, Albert Heath Carrier & Douglas D. Ellington

Lasting Legacies shines a spotlight on the contributions of two of the city’s most prominent architectural firms to Asheville’s built environment and artistic spirit in the early decades of the 20th century. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Jan. 18, 2026. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Tarah Singh Art Presents: Masquerade

This show is a discussion about the masks we wear as multidimensional beings. We might be unaware or we may choose who we present to the external world around us. FR (10/31), 6pm, Ginger's Revenge Craft Brewery & Tasting Room, 829 Riverside Dr Native America: In Translation

This exhibition, curated by Aps á alooke artist Wendy Red Starr, features the work of seven Indigenous artists who explore themes of community, heritage, and the lasting impact of colonialism in North America. Gallery open Wednesday through Sunday, 11am. Exhibition through Nov. 3. Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Adult Studio: The Art of Papercutting

Learn the magical art of paper cutting and create beautiful images and designs cut from a single piece of paper with an

Halloween Events

X-Acto knife. SA (11/1), 1pm, Asheville Art Museum, 2 S Pack Square

Weaverville Art Safari Art Safari gives guests the unique opportunity to meander and enjoy meeting 77 artists at 42 studios. See p26 SA (11/1) , SU (11/2), 10am, Multiple Locations in Weaverville Points in Space: Performance

This exhibition will feature visual and time-based artworks that echo BMC’s innovative spirit from 1933 to 1957. BMC was a nexus of avant-garde activity, fostering innovation through collaboration and experiential learning. Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday, 11am. Exhibition through Jan. 10, 2026. Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St Artful Living: The Spirit of the Craftsman Style Through clay, canvas, wood, and metal, Artful Living explores the soul of the Craftsman ethos—simplicity, utility, and harmony with the natural world.

Gallery open Monday through Sunday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 31. Grovewood Gallery, 111 Grovewood Rd

North Carolina Glass 2025 A landmark exhibition that will spotlight the work of both established and emerging artists pushing the boundaries of glass as a contemporary art form. Gallery open Tuesday through Friday, 10am. Exhibition through Dec. 12 WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

COMMUNITY MUSIC

Gather Hear Tour Piano & Rap Concert

This concert combines classical piano music with spoken word and rap, audience participation, plus an original composition by Chris.

WE (10/29), 5:30pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St Echoes Across the Smokies: A Night of Strings, Stories & Songs

52 local nonprofits need your help! Over $280,000 in matching donations

Halloween Festivities

Enjoy cozy bonfires, fresh-popped popcorn, candy, and Halloween movies on the big screen for both adults and children.

FR (10/31), 10am, Foothills Watershed, 655 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort

Halloween Blood Drive

All attendees get a free Red Cross Halloween t-shirt (while supplies last), a bag of treats and a chance to win door prizes just for coming to donate. Register at avl.mx/f5u.

FR (10/31), 10:30am, Pack Memorial Library

- Lord Auditorium, 67 Haywood St

Boo Bash on Grove Street

This Boo Bash Party will feature spooky spirits and friendly camaraderie.

FR (10/31), 3pm, Grove St Community Center, 36 Grove St

All Hallow’s Eve Purrrty

This special party will feature family-friendly activities including: Britt’s Sweet Treats ice cream truck, back-

yard bonfire, bobbing for apples, tarot and intuitive readers, local vendors with oddities, costume contests and more.

FR (10/31), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Trick or Treat

Visit the shops and restaurants, and enjoy candy at every stop as you stroll through. Dress up and have fun with your friends and family.

FR (10/31), 4pm, Grove Arcade, 1 Page Ave

Asheville Official Halloween Bar Crawl

Prepare to experience a night full of spine-chilling fun, electrifying energy, and unforgettable memories. It will feature Asheville’s best bars, food specials, live DJ music and more.

FR (10/31), 5pm, Urban Orchard, 24 Buxton Ave

Booville Community

Halloween Party

Southside families are invited to dress as their favorite characters to trick-or-treat and dig into candy

stations as the parking lot becomes a vibrant catwalk of people in costumes.

FR (10/31), 5pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Cryptids Halloween Party

This Hallow Eve’s party features immersive photo booths, a costume contest & other wonderfully spooky surprises. Wear your best Halloween costume for the contest.

FR (10/31), 5pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10

Vampires vs. Outlaws: Halloween Honky Tonk

Where outlaws ride after dark and vampires dance ‘til dawn. It will feature performances from The Swingin’ Poppies, The Alex Eubanks Band, Adrianne Blanks & The Oracles. Costumes are encouraged for the costume contest.

FR (10/31), 5pm, Fitz and the Wolfe, 1 Battery Park Ave

Halloween Party Sunset

Enjoy festive hay rides, live music, lawn games, and more—all set against a gorgeous mountain sunset. Costumes encouraged for kids and grownups alike.

FR (10/31), 5:30pm, The Horse Shoe Farm, 155 Horse Shoe Farm Rd, Hendersonville

Sal Lander’s Weirdly Woodstock Halloween Party

This Halloween party features music from the delightfully unpredictable Weirdly Woodstock, Sal Landers. Dress in your best costume to win a prize from the costume contest.

FR (10/31), 5:30pm, French Broad River Brewery, 101 Fairview Rd

CARNEVIL: The Gravest Show on Earth

Featuring twisted midway of horrors and delights with spooky décor, carnival-inspired eats, A Graveforest rave with DJs, drink specials, and fresh-from-thecrypt Halloween beer

releases.

FR (10/31), 6pm, DSSOLVR, 63 N Lexington Ave

Haunted Parking Lot

Buckle up for a frightfully fun ride through the drive-thru Haunted Parking Lot, a unique candy collecting experience with just the right amount of spooky surprises.

FR (10/31), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Acklen Walker Halloween Pirate Party

This celebration features shanties with lyric sheets, dancing to the drums of liberation, a costume contest and more. It’s a One Piece pirate party.

FR (10/31), 8pm, One World Brewing, 10 Patton Ave

Halloween 12 Year

Anniversary Party

Come celebrate 12 years of cider with Free Range DJ spinning 80’s vinyl, specialty drink menus, and coveted Fire Ciders.

FR (10/31), 8pm, Urban Orchard, 24 Buxton Ave

Halloween Party

This Halloween party will feature a dance party with a costume contest, spooky drinks and live music from Bruschetta Delorean, Black Diamon Empress, Abito Nero and a DJ set by Neckroft.

FR (10/31), 8pm, 27 Club, 180 Patton Ave

The Oklawaha Halloween Party

This Halloween party features dance music, spooky season favorites, lazers, fog machines and special effects. It will also feature special drinks, a costume contest and prizes.

FR (10/31), 8pm, Oklawaha Brewing Co., 147 1st Ave E, Hendersonville

Dance Floor Slasher: Halloween Party

Eulogy transforms into a haunted hall of terror on Halloween night with the help of music from DJ Lil Meow Meow and a drag show from Josie & the Pu$$ycats. Expect a costume contest, freak cocktails and horror photo-booth. FR (10/31), 9pm, Eulogy, 10 Buxton Ave

This soulful celebration brings the Smokies to life through the spirited tunes of the Junior Appalachian Musicians, stories of Cherokee storyteller

Kathi Littlejohn, and the harmonies of the Cherokee Language Repertory Choir.

TH (10/30), 7:30pm, WCU Bardo Arts Center, 199 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee

Land of the Sky Symphonic Band

Under the direction of Dr. David Wilken, the band will play an evening of music by American composers. There will be a costume contest at intermission.

FR (10/31), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Tigh Na Coille: Traditional Music & Dance from County Clare, Ireland

A powerhouse ensemble of talented teen and young adult musicians, singers, and championship step dancers excelling in traditional Irish music, song, and dance.

SA (11/1), 2pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

Kellin Watson Presents: Murder Ballads

A night of live music steeped in the eerie tradition of murder ballads - spooky songs, tragic tales, and top-tapping tunes about bad decisions gone worse.

SA (11/1), 5pm, Peri Social House, 406 W State St, Black Mountain

Chinobay (African, folk, world-music)

His catalog forms a rich tapestry of global cultures, interweaving diverse voices and experiences.

SA (11/1), 7:30pm, White Horse Black Mountain, 105C Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

Financial Best Practices for Small Business Owners

In this webinar, Veronica Edwards, CPA and Owner of Balanced Virtually, LCC will help you master the daily, monthly, and annual habits that create strong financial systems. Register at avl.mx/f5w.

WE (10/29), 10am, Online

Workshop & Lunch: Your Combination for Success

A special lunch & learn designed to help you discover what is important when it

comes to your success and how to unlock your potential in all of your endeavors.

WE (10/29), 11:30am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Access to Capital

Whether you’re a start-up or interested in growing your business, this workshop is here to guide you through the process to secure a business loan.

Register at avl.mx/f5h.

TH (10/30), 11am, Online

Enamel a Silver Charm

Choose your charm shape and your favorite color(s) of enamel. You’ll sift the enamel onto the silver charm then fire it in a kiln to flow the glass enamel onto the silver, and repeat until your piece is complete.

SA (11/1), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A

Therapeutic Recreation Adaptive Tennis

Teaches the basics of the game for adults and kids with intellectual disabilities ages 8 and above. Please contact APR Therapeutic Recreation at (828) 232-4529 for more info.

SA (11/1), 1pm, The Omni Grove Park Inn, 290 Macon Ave

Y12SR: Yoga & 12 Step Recovery

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

MO (11/3), 4:30pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Therapeutic Recreation Adaptive Archery

Lessons are offered at a slower pace during a three-week non competitive introductory archery program for persons with different abilities.

MO (11/3), 6pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Simply Charmed: Drop In Workshop

Choose from more than 60 styles of metal stamps and a variety of jewelers hammers to complete your charm. After a quick demo by the instructor you will have time to complete your masterpiece.

TU (11/4), 11am, Ignite Jewelry Studios, 84 Walnut St Unit A

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 (11/6), noon, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

Stroke Support Group w/Stronger Together

Wellness

Empowering stroke survivors and their caregivers through shared experiences, fostering a vibrant community that inspires healing, resilience, and hope on the journey to recovery.

TH (11/6), 3pm, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

From Field to File: Boosting Farm Success Through Better Recordkeeping

This workshop will guide you through simple steps to track your farm activities, finances, and yields— putting you in control of your farm’s success.

TH (11/6), 5:30pm, Online Training Events at SCC, 447 College Dr, Sylva

LITERARY

Hurricane Helene Poetry Reading Redhawk Publications will lead an evening of poetry readings from their new anthology Had I a Dove: Appalachian Poets On The Helene Flood

WE (10/29), 6pm, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain Harm Reduction Reading Group

During this three part reading group we will discuss Shira Hassan's book, Saving Our Own Lives, and its applications locally.

WE (10/29), 6:30pm, Firestorm Books, 1022 Haywood Rd

Meter & Melody: Poetry Night Poetry open mic hosted by Dill every

last Wednesday of the month.

WE (10/29), 7pm, Static Age Loft, 116 N Lexington Ave Poetry Open Mic

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

WE (10/29, 11/6), 8:30pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

Books & Birds w/J. Drew Lanham

Dr. J. Drew Lanham will be at the Jackson County Public Library for a reading and book signing.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Jackson County Public Library, 310 Keener St, Sylva

Footprint of a Heart w/Shayla Paradeis

Enjoy her folk songs, readings from her book, and poetry from her most recent journey as she explores walking as a sacred practice and honoring the heart within each step.

TH (10/30), 6:30pm, Community Commons at CSL Asheville, 3 Science of Mind Way

THEATER & FILM

Silent Movie Night: Metropolis

Local pianist Andrew J. Fletcher will be performing a live musical score to 1927 German expressionist science-fiction silent film directed by Fritz Lang and written by Thea Von Harbou.

WE (10/29), 8pm, Crow & Quill, 106 N Lexington Ave

Hendersonville’s Treat Street Carnival

Downtown Hendersonville, Main Street • Friday, Oct. 31 • 5 p.m.

An evening of festive fun that features trick-or-treating from Allen Street to Sixth Ave, a costume contest, Monster Mash dance party by Sound Extreme DJ and more.

“If you are looking for more options to see the streets come alive with costumes, music and all kinds of Halloween fun then keep the Hendersonville’s Treat Street Carnival on your radar. I know that I’m noting down all the festivities happening on Halloween in Asheville and the surrounding areas.”

— Braulio Martinez X

Weekday Matinee

Take a midday break and unwind with classic public-domain films in the cozy, living-room style basement of the Local Collective.

WE (10/29, 11/5), FR (10/31), MO (11/3), noon, The Local Collective, 52 S Main St, Weaverville

Butoh Dance Festival: Frequency in Motion An audiovisual performance featuring Butoh dancers: Atsushi Takenouchi, Jenni Cockrell, Julie Becton Gillum, and Constance Humphries. Dancers will be accompanied by live sounds, field recordings, and objects by Chris H.Lynn and Hiroko Komiya.

TH (10/30), 7:30am, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center, 120 College St Halloween Movie Screenings for Kids & Adults

Free screenings of Halloween movies for the whole family all October long, plus popcorn, beer, campfires, and s’mores.

TH (10/30), 6:30pm, Foothills Watershed, 655 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort

Haunted Mountains: Scary Stories w/Sheila Kay Adams

Sheila Kay Adams shares spooky tales from right here in the Appalachian Mountains.

TH (10/30), 7pm, Owen Theatre, 44 College St, Mars Hill

LIZZIE: The Lizzie Borden Musical LIZZIE explores the life of Lizzie Borden, a young woman trapped in a world of oppression and secrets, and the chain of events that led to one of the most sensational murder cases in American history.

TH (10/30), FR (10/31), SA (11/1), 7:30pm, SU (11/2), 2pm, Hart Theatre, 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville

NEVERMORE: The Imaginary Life & Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe

Nevermore is a hauntingly beautiful musical journey into the tortured soul of Edgar Allan Poe. A surreal theatrical experience that reimagines Poe’s tragic life from birth to death.

TH (10/30), FR (10/31), SA (11/1), 7:30pm, SU (11/2), 2:30pm, BeBe Theatre, 20 Commerce St

The Rocky Horror Show

This cult classic musical takes innocent Brad and Janet on a journey as they stumble upon the mysterious castle of Dr Frank-N-Furter, a mad scientist with a flair for the flamboyant.

TH (10/30), FR

(10/31), SA (11/1), SU (11/2), 7:30pm, Asheville Community Theatre, 35 E Walnut St

The Witch Trials

A night of immersive theatre, comedy and talented performers that help you enter a world of hysteria, humor and haunting truths of the Salem Witch Trials.

TH (10/30), 8:30pm, 27 Club, 180 Patton Ave

Halloween Magic Show

Prepare for impossible feats and uncanny wonders with world-renowned magician Paul Vigil, who will be joined by guest magicians who know how to keep the night deliciously unsettling.

FR (10/31), 7pm, Fitz and the Wolfe, 1 Battery Park Ave, Asheville

A Slice of Life: An Evening of Stories

Connie Regan-Blake's Storytelling Students Take the Stage. This year’s lineup promises an unforgettable night of heartfelt, humorous and powerful storytelling. SA (11/1), 7:30pm, Black Mountain Center for the Arts, 225 West State St, Black Mountain Save Me the Waltz

This collaborative event features Caf é String Quartet performing a curated program of period compositions that reflect the emotional depth and elegance of Zelda’s era. Local storyteller Melody will weave tales of Zelda’s brilliance, heartbreak, and legacy and more.

See p26

SU (11/2), 3pm, Hendersonville Theatre, 229 S. Washington St, Hendersonville

MEETINGS & PROGRAMS

Docent Led Tours

See beautiful and interesting plants, delicious vegetables, native plants for beauty and pollinator interest.

WE (10/29), 10am, Buncombe County Cooperative Extension Center, 49 Mount Carmel Rd, Ste 102

Is It Cake: Adult Edition

Whisk, mix, and bake your way to glory in an exciting adult bake-off to crown Asheville’s ultimate baking champion.

WE (10/29), 5:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Southside Cyber Wednesday Dive into the exciting world of e-sports

and gaming with two powerful PlayStation 5 consoles.

WE (10/29, 11/5), 6pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Mindful Stretching Reconnect with your body through this program designed to gently release tension, improve flexibility, and calm the nervous system through guided sessions.

WE (10/29), 6:15pm, Stephens-Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

The Beauty & Challenges of Hawaiian Birds

Explore avian highlights from Oahu, Hawaii and Kauai to learn about the challenges facing the native Hawaiian birds and efforts to slow the rapid decline of these species.

WE (10/29), 7pm, AB Tech, Ferguson Auditorium, 340 Victoria Rd

Resist, Connect & Rebuild: Bimonthly Gathering

In addition to reports from our teams on recent actions and upcoming opportunities, we’ll present info on three important current and upcoming programs.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Skyland/South Buncombe Library, 260 Overlook Rd

Southern Indigenous Waters

A lecture series that puts humanities scholars in conversation with natural sciences scholars about issues affecting us all. Duke hydrologist Ryan Emanuel and East Carolina University literary scholar Kirstin Squint will discuss the centrality of place and water for southern Indigenous people.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Highsmith Student Union, 1 University Heights

A Night of Intrigue Step into the shoes of a master detective for a collaborative challenge where you and your fellow investigators pore over authentic clues, documents, and evidence to unravel a decades-old mystery.

TH (10/30), 6:30pm, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Learn to Homebrew Day Beer lovers worldwide are invited to brew, share their knowledge, and celebrate the hobby of homebrewing annually.

SA (11/1), 10am, Asheville Brewers Supply, 712B Merrimon Ave

Coloring w/Cats

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

SU (11/2), 2pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd Wise & Young Entrepreneur Networking Event

A creative and inspiring evening where entrepreneurs, freelancers, and dreamers come together to connect, play, and grow.

SU (11/2), 6pm, Third Room, 46 Wall St Commute Friendly WNC Launch Party

A brand new program designed to help workplaces and campuses support their people who use multimodal transportation.

MO (11/3), 12:30pm, Land of Sky Regional Council Offices, 339 New Leicester Hwy, Ste 140

Monday Marketing Meetup

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

MO (11/3), 1pm, The Local Collective, 52 S Main St, Weaverville

IBN Biz Lunch: East Asheville

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

TU (11/4), noon, Suwana Asian Cuisine, 45 Tunnel Rd Self Defense w/Freya Freya wants to empower women, girls, and all marginalized genders with practical self defense skills, so they can take on their next adventure with confidence, TU (11/4), 5:30pm, All Bodies Movement and Wellness, 211 Merrimon Ave

IBN Breakfast Club: Mills River

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

WE (11/5), 8am, Mills River Restaurant, 4467 Boylston Hwy, Mills River

We are the Ones

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

WE (11/5), 3:30pm, Community Commons at CSL Asheville, 3 Science of Mind Way

First Wednesday w/ Big Asheville Science Salon

Each month, a bona fide expert takes attendees on a thrill ride of science awesomeness with a lively Q&A afterwards.

WE (11/5), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10

Universal Art of Manifestation: Exploring Creation Across Spiritual Traditions

An enlightening evening exploring how diverse wisdom traditions describe the same timeless process: how thought becomes form and how we consciously direct our own experiences.

WE (11/5), 6:30pm, Community Commons at CSL Asheville, 3 Science of Mind Way

Life in the Floodplain: Post-Helene Recovery

WNC Sierra Club will host Lisa Raleigh, RiverLink’s Executive Director, one year post-Helene for an engaging discussion about the French Broad River watershed. Register at avl.mx/f5p.

WE (11/5), 7pm, Online

NSA-WNC Meeting

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

TH (11/6), 10am, AmeriHealth Caritas, 216 Asheland Ave

IBN Biz Lunch: Hendersonville

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

TH (11/6), noon, Thai Spice, 220 South King St, Hendersonville

Facing Our History

This program focuses on the 1927 lynching of Broadus Miller near Marion, North Carolina, and the local 1897 lynching of Bob Brackett along

Reems Creek in the Weaverville area.

TH (11/6), 7pm, Weaverville Community Center, 60 Lakeshore Dr, Weaverville

GAMES & CLUBS

Neighborhood Strollers Walking Club

Head to local neighborhoods to connect with each other while walking and enjoying a change of scenery.

WE (10/29), 10am, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

Murder Mystery Party: Jazz Age

Jeopardy

Dress in your character’s costume or or join the audience of investigators. Win awards for best costume, best actors, and best sleuths.

WE (10/29), 4pm, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Rd

Neighborhood Strollers Walking Club

Socialize and get moving on the paved outdoor loop around the park at Crump Shiloh Center.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd

Halloween Spooky Bingo

Wear a costume and join friends for a night of spooky Halloween bingo with prizes and refreshments. Advance registration required.

FR (10/31), 6:30pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St

Bid Whist

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

SA (11/1), 1pm, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Whispers at the Wake: A 1930’s Murder Mystery

You and your fellow

guests will have just two hours to follow the clues, unravel the lies, and expose the murderer before the authorities arrive.

SA (11/1), 7pm, Peri Social House, 406 W State St, Black Mountain

Weekly Sunday Scrabble!

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

SU (11/2), 1:30pm, Stephens Lee Recreation Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave

Ping Pong Tournament

Come by and shoot your shot against some of the best ping pong players in town. Free to enter and $50 bar tab to the winner.

MO (11/3), 6pm, Sovereign Kava, 268 Biltmore Ave

Pool Night Pool night, every Monday night with a $5 buy in. Must be signed up by 7 p.m.

MO (11/3), 6:30pm, Eda’s Hide-a-Way, 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville

Music Bingo w/ Spencer

Bring your friends to Taproom Tuesdays featuring Music Bingo with Spencer and rotating food trucks.

TU (11/4), 6pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

Asheville Board Game Club Meet-Up

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

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

Senior Games Track & Field Club

Practice sprints, starts, and jumps or just get some exercise around the city’s brand new

track.

TH (11/6), 1pm, Memorial Stadium, 32 Buchanan Pl NCAA Football Gaming Night

Compete in a PlayStation 5 NCAA college football tournament for a chance to win a gift card.

TH (11/6), 6pm, Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St

KID-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS

Tiny Tykes Play Dates

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

WE (10/29, 11/5), 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 (10/29, 11/5), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Little Monkeys

A mix of fun games and activities for little adventurers who love to climb and scramble their way around the house.

TH (10/30, 11/6), 10am, Tempie Avery Montford Community Center, 34 Pearson Ave

Baby Storytime

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

TH (10/30, 11/6), 10:30am, Black Mountain Library, Black Mountain

Tiny Tykes

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

FR (10/31), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Family Trunk or Treat

Dress up, enjoy music, collect candy, and make friends.

FR (10/31), 6pm, Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh 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 (11/1), 1pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

Growing in Motion

A joyful and engaging movement class designed for toddlers ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Through playful activities, music, and exploration, we encourage the development of essential gross motor skills.

MO (11/3), 10am, Dr Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St

Kids & Teens Xing Yi

Learn complete systems of Xing Yi, Baguazhang, and Taiji, including weapons and sparring as optional classes.

TH (10/30, 11/6) , MO (11/3), TU (11/4) , 4pm, Dragon Phoenix, 51 N Merrimon Ave, Ste 109

Black Cat Tales: Story Time w/Cats

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

WE (11/5), 4pm, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

LOCAL MARKETS

Leicester Farmers Market

A community-led farmers market local produce, cheese, meats, honey, strawberries, asparagus, rhubarb, ramps, a variety of plants and more. Every Wednesday through October.

WE (10/29), 3pm, Leicester Community Center, 2979 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester

Wicked Boo-tique

Browse 40+ local and indie vendors for a spooky and autumnal celebration of art, handmade, and vintage finds. Shop all things Halloween and fall inspired: apparel,

ceramics, jewelry, textile art, candles, diy kits and more.

WE (10/29), TH (10/30 ), 11am, FR (10/31), SA (11/1) , 10am, SU (11/2), noon, Asheville Mall, 3 S Tunnel Rd

RAD Farmers Market

Asheville’s only year-round weekly market, featuring 30+ vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, beverages, grab-and-go meals, and more. EBT and SNAP accepted.

WE (10/29, 11/5), 3pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St

Weaverville Tailgate Market

This market features a selection of fresh, locally grown produce, grass fed beef, pork, chicken, eggs, cheese, baked goods, artisan bread, eclectic handmade goodies, garden and landscaping plants. Open yearround.

WE (10/29, 111/5), 3pm, 60 Lake Shore Dr Weaverville NC

Enka-Candler Farmer's Market

A grand selection of local foods and crafts, everything from

produce to pickles, baked goods to body care, and even educational resources. Every Thursday through October 31. TH (10/30), 3:30pm, A-B Tech Small Business Center, 1465 Sand Hill Rd, Candler East Asheville Tailgate Market

Featuring over 25 vendors selling meat, seafood, produce, flowers, bread, eggs, baked goods, fruit, herbs, sweet treats, tamales, and more. Every Friday through Nov. 21.

FR (10/31), 3pm, Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Rd North Asheville Tailgate Market Asheville’s only year-round weekly market, featuring 30+ vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, beverages, grab-and-go meals, and more. EBT and SNAP accepted.

SA (11/1), 8am, 275 Edgewood Rd

Asheville City Market

A producer-only market featuring local food products, including fresh produce, meat, cheese, bread,

20% off the administrative fee for Elstar floor plan

Available today!

1-bedroom apartment with walk-in shower

Fees are all-inclusive and based on income

pastries, and other artisan products. Every Saturday through December.

SA (11/1), 9am, 52 N Market St

Black Mountain

Tailgate Market

A seasonal community event featuring organic and sustainably grown produce, plants, cut flowers, herbs, local raised meats, seafood, breads, pastries, cheeses, eggs and locally handcrafted items. Every Saturday through Nov. 22.

SA (11/1), 9am, 130 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain

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 (11/1), 9am, 216 Whitson Ave, 216 Whitson Ave, Swannanoa

WNC Farmers Market

This year-round market features locally grown produce, fruits and vegetables, mountain crafts, plants, shops,

arts and crafts, sourwood honey, and other farm fresh items.

Open daily, 8am. 570 Brevard Rd

West Asheville Tailgate Market

This market features an array of goods including fruits, vegetables, baked goods, bread, eggs, cheese, plants, specialty items, locally made art and crafts and more. Every Tuesday through November.

TU (11/4), 3:30pm, 718 Haywood Rd

Handcrafted Holiday Market Reception

Regional artists will fill the TACS Gallery with fine and handcrafted goods, rotating their inventory with each week.

TH (11/6), 5:30pm, Tryon Arts and Crafts School, 373 Harmon Field Rd, Tryon

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Ghostbusters in Black Mountain

Featuring a meet and greet from the The Southern Belle Ghostbusters in full uniform and gear, themed drinks and specials, and make sure to bring

your Ghostbusters knowledge for trivia.

WE (10/29), noon, Foothills Grange, 120 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain

The Big Leb-HOWLSki: Wii Bowling Tournament & Doggo Costume Contest

Part Lebowski-inspired Wii Bowling tourney and part doggo Halloween party and costume contest.

Dress up like your favorite character from the iconic movie.

WE (10/29), 6pm, The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd Ste 10

Boo-Ya! Ghoul For Ghoul Meet Up & Fall Fest

It will feature mini pumpkin painting, pie-eating relays, apple-biting shenanigans, flip cup of doom, and karaoke.

WE (10/29), 7pm, The Odd, 1045 Haywood Rd

Trunk-or-Treat

Meet your local businesses and trick or treat in the MRB parking lot while DJ Jason plays some music.

TH (10/30), 5pm, Mills River Brewing Co., 336 Banner Farm Rd, Mills River

What Would You Do Without Constant

Bathroom Trips?

AMOS After Hours:

Creature Feature

Craft your own urban legend with Asheville's best story crafters. Explore cryptozoology, animal science, and paleontology to see what myths might have some real teeth to them.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Asheville Museum of Science, 43 Patton Ave

Halloween Masquerade Party

An exclusive costume party featuring appetizers, late-night snacks, and a live DJ spinning your favorite 80s and 90s vinyl. Compete in a costume contest for fun prizes and bragging rights.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Hell or High Water, 128 Broadway St, Black Mountain

Marquee Masquerade Returns: Good vs. Evil

Get your costumes ready for the return of Marquee's annual masquerade bash. There will be live music from a local DJ, live entertainment, refreshments, a costume contest and prizes.

TH (10/30), 6pm, Marquee Asheville, 36 Foundy St

Lazr Luvr Halloween Party

A spooky night of nonstop music, high-energy vibes, and all the best hits from the decade of decadence.

TH (10/30), 8pm, The Meadow at Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

Agricultural Summit

This summit brings together farmers, agricultural professionals, and experts to share valuable resources and knowledge that can help you grow and sustain your farm business.

SA (11/1), 9am, Mayland Community College Yancey Learning Center, 107 Wheerler Hills Rd, Burnsville

SONshine Crafters Craft Show

It's the perfect place to get started on your Christmas shopping for gifts and decor with more than 40 vendors. There's also a food truck and door prizes.

SA (11/1), 9am, Skyland First Baptist Church, 2115 Hendersonville Rd, Arden

Halloween Hemlock Hike

A special Halloween-edition educational hike to one of North Carolina’s spookiest hemlock stands: the aged McCall family cemetery. Along the way, you’ll learn about hemlocks, the spooky hemlock woolly adelgid, and what you can do to help.

SA (11/1), 2pm, Pisgah National Forest, Pisgah Forest

Mountain Metropolis:

Asheville in the Roaring '20s Kickoff Party

A roaring '20s-inspired kickoff party to celebrate the exhibition Mountain Metropolis: The Land of the Sky in the Roaring '20s . It will feature live music by Russ Wilson's 10 Kings of Jazz and Andrew Fletcher and more.

SA (11/1), 2pm, Pack Memorial LibraryLord Auditorium, 67 Haywood St Day of the Dead Cerveza Oscura Party

Celebrate the launch of a new fall seasonal drink with a vibrant Day of the Dead party and live music from Ben Balmer. There will also be high-energy beats from DJ Mtn Vibes, free face

painting and a kids coloring station.

SA (11/1), 3pm, Highland Brewing Co., 12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Ste 200

Sunsets Finale: Halloween Golden hour fades into blacklight glow as DJs cast spells from the booth, immersive visuals light up the skyline, and the city’s boldest crowd gathers one last time to close the season in style. Costumes aren’t just encouraged — they’re everything.

SA (11/1), 7pm, Pillar Rooftop Bar, 309 College St, 6th Floor

Fall Festivities

Celebrate the fall season with hayrides, pumpkins, freshpressed apple cider, and the unbeatable scenic landscape.

SA (11/1 ), SU (11/2), 11am, Hickory Nut Gap Farm, 57 Sugar Hollow Rd, Fairview

BENEFITS & VOLUNTEERING

All Punks Day Cover Show: Benefitting Asheville Prison Books 10 bands blast

through covers of a wide range of genres to raise money for Tranzmission Prison Books Project. Show up  singalong, have fun watching an insane blend of music in one night.

SA (11/1), 7pm, Fleetwood's, 496 Haywood Rd

Asheville Drag Brunch: Community Give Back Drag Show This drag brunch will feature dazzling performances from the finest drag artists bringing high-energy with food and beverages. Proceeds from the show will benefit Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness.

SU (11/2), 1pm, New Belgium Brewing Co., 21 Craven St

Low-Cost Community Neuter Clinic

Please schedule and pay for your appointment prior to showing up. Appointments and additional services can be scheduled at avl.mx/dlq.

TH (11/6), 9am, House of Black Cat Magic, Co., 841 Haywood Rd

“I was planning my entire life around where the nearest bathroom was,” shares Kathy of Asheville. “I couldn’t enjoy dinner with friends, take long walks, or even sleep through the night without interruption. The urgency was constant and embarrassing.”

Kathy was suffering from Overactive Bladder Syndrome (OAB), a condition affecting millions of Americans. The frequent urges, nighttime bathroom trips, and fear of accidents can be physically and emotionally exhausting. The relentless urge to urinate is unbearable.

Planning every outing around bathroom locations becomes your reality.

Waking up multiple times each night leaves you exhausted.

Social events feel impossible - what if there’s no bathroom nearby? You spend your entire day anxious about the next urgent trip. Intimacy and confidence suffer.

“I tried medications that gave me terrible dry mouth and constipation. My doctor said I just had to live with it or consider surgery,” Kathy recalls.

Then Kathy found Dr. Autum Kirgan, DACM, C.SMA, L.Ac of South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness.

By blending the ancient wisdom of acupuncture with cutting-edge electroacupuncture technology, Dr. Autum has designed a natural, non-surgical solution for overactive

bladder: Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS).

“PTNS uses gentle electrical stimulation at a specific acupuncture point near the ankle to help ‘retrain’ the bladder’s overactive patterns, “ explains Dr. Kirgan. “Research shows that 60-80% of patients experience significant improvement. Studies even demonstrate PTNS can be more effective than common OAB medications - without the side effects.”

Kathy, like so many others, was told medications or surgery were her only options. But PTNS offered a third path.

After completing her PTNS treatment program, Kathy is already experiencing life-changing results. “I’m sleeping through the night again. I went to a

concert last week and actually enjoyed the show instead of counting bathroom trips. I feel like I have my life back! Dr. Kirgan has given me freedom I thought was gone forever.”

The number of treatments needed will vary from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed evaluation.

If you or someone you love is suffering from overactive bladder, missed too many events because of bathroom anxiety, or passed on travel plans with friends because you’re afraid you can’t manage, it’s time to call 828575-5904 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kirgan and her South Slope Acupuncture & Wellness team. They are waiting for your call.

New Patient Offer

Halloween masks — and scrubs!

Nutrient-rich pumpkin is key ingredient in DIY body care products

Yield: 1 application.

BY ASHLEY ENGLISH HOMEMADE

From the ages of 4-11, when my family lived in southeastern Virginia, October meant one thing to my older brother, Jimmy, and me: pumpkin ice cream.

We couldn’t get enough of the straightfrom-the-creamery scoops at Bergey’s Dairy (now called Bergey’s Breadbasket) in Chesapeake. Year-round, they served frozen treats featuring perennial favorites (chocolate, vanilla, etc.), while also offering limited-run seasonal flavors. Once the summer wrapped, Jimmy and I knew it was only a matter of time before our beloved pumpkin ice cream again appeared on the chalkboard. It would be years before I discovered that pumpkin is good for more than just eating. A cultivated winter squash belonging to the genus Cucurbita, pumpkin has been consumed by humans for an impressively long time, with some records dating as far back as 7000 B.C.E. in Mesoamerica. But it turns out that in addition to its robust flavor and laudable nutrient profile, pumpkin is as good for the outside of our bodies as it is internally.

After you’ve had your fill of pumpkin bread and pumpkin pie (as well as the pumpkin spice latte and pumpkin and sage lasagna I shared in last week’s “Homemade Living” Xpress column), try adding some pumpkin purée to your body care routine. My pumpkin face mask, pumpkin hair mask and pumpkin body scrub are supersimple to make, coming together in mere minutes with ingredients likely already in your kitchen.

If you should opt to sip your PSL while adorning your face in a PFM and hair in a PHM, who am I to cast aspersions?

Pumpkin face mask

Pumpkin contains alpha-hydroxy acids that aid the skin in its sloughing process, smoothing it as it produces new cells. High quantities of vitamins A and C additionally aid in smoothing the skin while boosting the production of collagen.

Yogurt offers an assist via lactic acid, a type of alpha-hydroxy acid found in dairy products. This acid works to penetrate the skin and loosen the uppermost layers of skin cells, resulting in a natural skin shedding process.

Spread some of this mask on when your skin, confronted with autumn’s reduced daytime humidity and drying winds, is in need of extra moisturizing support.

Frequency of use: Once a week

Storage: Do not store. Use immediately.

You will need:

• ¼ cup pumpkin purée (recipe below)

• 2 tablespoons plain whole milk yogurt

To prepare:

• Place the ingredients into a small bowl.

• Whisk gently until completely combined.

• Slather liberally on face and neck.

• Leave on for 15 minutes. (I suggest using a headband to keep hair off the face.)

• Rinse the mask off with warm water, then apply your preferred moisturizer.

• Use weekly during dry, cool weather to keep the face moisturized.

Pumpkin hair mask

In addition to the many benefits it offers to the skin, pumpkin is also quite helpful for hair. It’s rich in potassium, a key nutrient for helping hair grow, as well as zinc, which supports collagen levels, maintaining hair health. This mask, in combination with the humectant (moisture-retaining) properties of honey, is a wonderful means of supporting dry hair during the colder months.

Yield: 1 application.

Frequency of use: Use every one to two weeks, as needed.

Storage: Do not store. Use immediately.

You will need:

• ½ cup pumpkin purée (recipe below)

• 1 tablespoon honey

To prepare:

• Stir the honey and pumpkin purée together in a small bowl.

• Standing at the sink, scoop the mixture in your hand, and slather it over your hair and scalp. This will be messy and a bit sticky.

• Rinse your hands clean, place a shower cap over your hair and allow the hair mask to rest for 15-20 minutes.

• In the shower, rinse the mixture out with warm (not overly hot) water, and then shampoo, condition and style as usual.

Pumpkin body scrub

In addition to all of the beneficial nutrients mentioned above, pumpkins are also rich in beta-carotene, an anti-

LIVING

• 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée (recipe below)

• 1 tablespoon sweet almond, apricot, jojoba or melted coconut oil

To prepare:

• Place all of the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl.

• Stir until fully combined. Transfer the mixture to a lidded container.

• Use the scrub in a hot shower. Scoop out 1 to 2 tablespoons at a time. Massage it into your hands, arms, shoulders, back, belly, buttocks, thighs and calves in a circular, scrubbing motion.

• Rinse thoroughly, taking care, as the shower floor will be slick.

• When you’re ready, carefully step out of the shower and wipe down the oily residue on the shower floor, if any.

• Gently pat your skin dry with a towel.

Pumpkin purée

Yield: Around 5-6 cups

oxidant that protects skin from cellular damage. It additionally helps skin exfoliate, or slough off and renew. Combined with the additional exfoliating properties found in sea salt and sugar, this blend is as therapeutic to dry skin as it is inherently moisturizing and restorative.

Yield: About 1 cup, approximately 4-5 applications.

Frequency of use: Apply twice weekly, as needed.

Storage: Store in a lidded container in a cool, dark location. Use within two months.

You will need:

• ½ cup sea salt

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

You will need: One baking pumpkin (about 5-6 pounds)

To prepare:

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

• Cut the pumpkin in half, then remove and discard or compost the seeds.

• Place the flesh side down on a rimmed baking sheet and roast until the flesh has softened, about 45-50 minutes.

• Cool slightly, then scoop the flesh out of the skin and purée in a food processor until smooth.

• If not using right away, store in a lidded container in the refrigerator. Use within three to four days, or store in a freezer-safe container and use within six months. X

ARTS & CULTURE

WITH ERIC BROWN Interstate 26 is cursed thanks to F. Scott Fitzgerald!

by Eric Brown | ericjbrown3000@gmail.com

Halloween is my favorite time of year. I’d like to say I’m not one of those elder millennials who make Halloween their personality, but I’m afraid that’s exactly who I am. I spend all summer daydreaming about Halloween. I curse the vengeful sun for making it so hot and muggy during the dog days and wait patiently for all the spiderwebbed fall goodness that follows it. (NOTE: This does not include pumpkin spice lattes. Those can go straight to hell.)

Obviously, Halloween 2024 wasn’t so great. We had this thing going on here that kinda disrupted all the frightful festivities. It was called Tropical Storm Helene. Heard of it? Now that we’ve moved away from figuring out how to flush our toilets and boiling creek water to survive, I say this year we go all in on the Halloween vibes.

To help me do my part in the celebration, I've asked three people who are equally funny and spooky to join me for this month's Best Medicine: Cloud Hudson, Stevie Ramirez and Casey Garrison.

Back in the day, horror movies were about werewolves, mummies and creatures from assorted black lagoons. These days, thanks to A24 Films and other elevated horror movies, our monsters may appear as if they are familiar creatures from some spooky tale, but really, they’re the unresolved trauma of the death of a husband and the surviving children left behind. With this in mind, pitch me your version of a monster movie based on Western North Carolina. Ideally, the monster is an allegory for a deeper underlying issue we have. Bonus points if you can work in local folklore.

Casey: Down on his luck, Asher decides to rent out a room in his house to tourists. Then he hears about a program that rents your car

so people can use it for ride-sharing, and he signs up. His house is a mess, and his car is getting beat up, but at least he’s able to make rent.

Then one day, Asher gets sick and has some hospital bills. It’s going to be a stretch financially, but he hears about an app that allows people to rent out their household items. Pots, pans, dishes, silverware, that sort of thing. Tourists from Florida fill his home, using up everything he has. Even his toothbrush. The movie ends with him signing up to let retirees transport their brains into his skull to use his body to do drugs and have unsafe sex while on vacation. Sorry, was this supposed to be funny?

Cloud: The Appalachian air, usually perfumed with the smell of decaying leaves, turns as sweet as roses when you spot the creatures. From 10 feet away, they appear to be the most gor-

OLD SPORT: For this month’s comedy feature, Eric Brown, top left, and his latest batch of local comedians embrace the Halloween spirit, including one theory on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s culpability for our current-day traffic woes. Also featured, clockwise, starting top right, Casey Garrison, Cloud Hudson and Stevie Ramirez. Photo of Brown by Cindy Kunst; photo of Garrison by Donnie Rex Bishop; photo of F. Scott Fitzgerald courtesy of Special Collections, Princeton University Library; all other photos courtesy of the comedians

geous people you've ever seen. They’re angelic and androgynous and almost glowing in a strange, magnetic, iridescent light. You can’t help but walk toward them, chasing your own heart that feels as if it’s being pulled out of your chest. You assume that your heart will get back inside your chest if you can just get close enough to them, but to your horror, once you’ve fully embraced the radiant beings, your heart feels further away than ever. The heartsick hunger sours in your stomach as you realize that your beloved is slowly disintegrating in your arms. That sweet smell of roses turns into the smell of a corpse. But still cursed

with yearning, you can’t stop yourself from taking them into your mouth, rotten and ragged as they’ve become. You eat every last morsel of their flesh and still feel empty.

Stevie: Well, my forest-based tale smells of patchouli and BO. It’s dark and muggy, and the moon is full. In the distance, you hear the sounds of what can only be white hippies drumming offbeat. You look for your flashlight, but it’s gone missing. You have no choice but to follow the sound of the hippies. As you meander through the Appalachian woods, you start shedding who you once were and start growing features of a true

Asheville hippie. Your hair begins to fall out, only to transform into poorly maintained dreadlocks. Your clothes become ragged and disintegrate off your body, while a tie-dye shirt, drug rug, cargo cutoffs and Birkenstocks form to your increasingly stinky body. By the time you get to the hippies in the woods, the person you once were is just a memory.

Eric: Picture this: A mountain range covered with evergreen trees. A region known for its verdant beauty, but an ancient evil lurks in the ground. Some say it’s the vengeful spirits of coal miners. Others say it’s the ever-wakeful eye of an arcane force as old as these mountains. It could even be a third thing — what exactly, we don’t know. Regardless of what it is, we do know what it does. It draws all the nutrients out of the trees, making their leaves change color. While beautiful to behold, what it brings to our mountains is truly terrifying. Universal Studios presents LEAF PEEPERS. Rated R.

Everyone who lives in Buncombe County knows about Helen’s Bridge — the allegedly haunted site of a bereaved mother who took her own life and can still be heard roaming the area to this day. But let’s be honest, it’s pretty mainstream and overrated. What are some spooky Halloween destinations that are a little more off the beaten path?

Stevie: Personally, Warren Wilson College gives me the creeps. Maybe it’s because I was rehearsing for improvised horror shows there with Adesto Theatre and was in a scary mood, or maybe it’s actually haunted. What else would explain the shadow figure I saw on the balcony in the Bryson Gym? Surely, it’s not my own mental health but actual ghost stuff. The door to the balcony was locked, and we were explicitly told to stay away from the balcony at all costs. What is Warren Wilson College hiding?

Cloud: The Grove Park Inn boasts of many famous ghosts, such as the Pink Lady. But few people outside of the employees have walked through the clandestine back tunnels. They know that the place is crawling with the souls of myriad hospitality workers. When I worked there, I never used the bathroom in the Blue Ridge kitchen for a reason. And a friend of mine swore she would haunt the back hallways one day — and she’s been dead for years!

Eric: The Mount Pisgah trail is great this time of year. Lots of gnarled trees and spooky rock faces. It’s a good hike and a good Halloween vibe.

And I did see a lady with bedraggled hair in a bloodstained gown wailing while I was on that hike, but I think she was just visiting from Florida or something. I wouldn’t worry about her.

Casey: A lot of people don’t know this, but I-26 from Asheville to Hendersonville is haunted every weekday from 3-6 p.m. Ghosts and ghouls cause time to slow down, and traffic with it. It’s said it all started when, in 1936, F. Scott Fitzgerald spoke the words “Wow, traffic here is like a dream compared to New York!” thus cursing the city forever.

One thing I really love about this time of year is seeing all the skeletons in people’s yards. And apparently, based on Xpress reporting in this very issue, there’s a home on Chestnut Street where a few such props remain year-round. Those specific skeletons aside, where do you think all the rest go after Halloween?

Cloud: Halloween skeletons from around the country and world obviously go to Asheville during the rest of the year, nestling themselves into bead store drawers to become Bohemian jewelry or to stand among the shelves of our town’s many goth girls. Tattoo and oddy shops have noticeably empty shelves during October, when their usual occupants find seasonal employment. And, many skeletons — like the ones at the Chestnut Street home — never go anywhere. If it’s a redneck thing to leave your Christmas lights up all year, then it’s an Asheville redneck thing to leave your skeletons hanging around your gardens and front porch all year. We celebrate the structure that death brings to our lives all year round in this little valley.

Casey: Not gonna lie, it’s hard to be one of those skeletons after Halloween is over. You’ve got 11 months of unemployment to figure out. Some of them get work in December by putting on a Santa hat and fake beard. Some of them go back to their jobs at coffee shops and breweries. Some, like the one in my yard, don’t go anywhere, because — as Cloud alluded to — the person who owns the yard is superlazy. What can I say? Every season is spooky season if you’re lazy enough.

Stevie: I can only assume that all the skeletons go to heaven after Halloween. A typical evangelical wouldn’t admit to this, but it’s the most logical truth. I mean, in this world, we have to cling to hope where we can. If the skeletons don’t go to heaven, then what?! Let me believe

this. Please let me believe this. Why would you try to take this away from me? Stop. Let me believe this. Please. I need this. I need skeleton heaven. Eric: Stevie, they go to skeleton heaven. But also! Last year, my partner’s skeleton disappeared out of her yard. You know, like the Halloween kind, not the one in her body. Conventional wisdom would say that it was probably stolen by some kids, but I don’t think that’s what happened. I can’t prove its existence, but from what I hear, on

Nov. 1, all the skeletons combine into a giant skeleton and fly into space to protect us. It’s kinda like a bony Voltron. They have a giant sword made of bones, they fire guns that shoot bones at intergalactic threats and they live in a secret base on the dark side of the moon made of gold. I’m just kidding, everyone knows the moon is also made of bones. Personally, I find that kind of collective action in a community really inspiring in these turbulent times. Good on you, skeletons! X

ASHEVILLE’S

HALLOWEEN PARTY & COSTUME CONTEST

Campfire concoctions

Imperial stouts return to local breweries

BY EDWIN ARNAUDIN

earnaudin@mountainx.com

The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, which means one thing — well, several, but among them is that it’s officially stout and porter season.

Sure, numerous light-bodied dark beers are available at area taprooms, bottle shops and grocery stores yearround. But that’s typically not the case for high-ABV imperial stouts, which many craft beverage producers wait until fall and winter to put out.

Xpress spoke with masterminds from Asheville’s two oldest breweries about their annual offerings, the allure of big dark beers and whether any time is a good time for sipping them.

TARTAN TIPPLING

The fall release of Highland Brewing Co.’s Cold Mountain Winter Ale is unquestionably the most popular local beer-related event each year. But another seasonal brew from the city’s longest-running craft brewery deserved just as much acclaim — if not more.

First brewed in Highland’s pilot room in 2014, Black Watch Double Chocolate Milk Stout (8% ABV) has become an annual special release each November. It was developed by thenhead brewer John Lyda in collaboration with staff brewer Paul Rollow and longtime bartender J Unger

“J always has a lot of great ideas, and Black Watch was one of them,” says Josh Jiles, Highland’s innovation brewing manager. “There’s a sensory nostalgia to [brewing it] that hits like baking a favorite dessert.”

Over the past decade, Jiles says, not much has changed with the base beer. Instead, the brewing team has fun with adjuncts, adding raspberries (Jiles’ favorite version), peanut butter or vanilla for small-batch editions that are served in the tasting room.

“Chocolate stouts can be a tricky balancing act, making sure you have enough roast barley without being too harsh, layers of specialty malts that complement the cocoa nibs without them being lost in the mix. We don’t want the chocolate to take away the head retention, so we add in lots of flaked oats in the mash,” Jiles says.

“Luckily for us brewers, this recipe has been dialed in for many years, and we’re just making minor

tweaks to keep the yeast happy, so we have a healthy fermentation for this high-gravity brew.”

Black Watch is set for release in late November, along with special-edition bottles of Barrel-Aged Black Watch, which typically clocks in at just over 10% ABV. Jiles notes that the “classic combo” of chocolate and bourbon make the beer an excellent candidate for barrel aging and that its full-bodied nature prevents it from tasting thin after months of aging.

“The rich cocoa and roasted malt flavors of Black Watch complement the vanilla, oak and spice from the barrels,” he says. “The sweetness of the beer balances out the boozy warmth and tannins from the barrels.”

Jiles adds that Highland has enjoyed using many types of bourbon barrels over the years for Black Watch and that some of his favorites have been fresh-dumped Heaven Hill and Willett barrels.

“We tend to not pick wine barrels or other spirits,” he says. “Although rum barrels sound pretty good.”

CREATURE COMFORTS

Predating Black Watch by four years is Asheville Brewing Co.’s Carolina Mountain Monster imperial stout (11%). The city’s second-oldest brewery had previously made several big stouts, but 2010 marked the first year that particular offering was established as a seasonal release — and the recipe continues to evolve.

“Certain years, we’ve played with the alcohol content,” says head brewer Pete Langheinrich. “One year we almost hit [North Carolina’s 15% ABV legal limit of a malt beverage] with 14.8% ABV, but we have backed back down. We like it around 11[% ABV] — it’s not like that makes it any more drinkable, but the flavor and the body are best around there.”

Langheinrich notes that a big stout allows brewers more to “hide behind” than a light lager, allowing increased risk-taking with ingredients while still producing an appealing flavor. But managing the fermentation of Carolina Mountain Monster presents plenty of challenges.

In particular, he says, it’s important to have yeast that’s tolerant to those high alcohol levels; otherwise, it won’t break down all the sugars and can leave the beer sweeter than desired.

THE DARK SIDE: Highland Brewing Co. innovation brewing manager Josh Jiles poses with a limited-edition bottle of Barrel-Aged Black Watch double chocolate milk stout. The beer will be available in November. Photo by Hannah Smentkowski/ Highland Brewing Co.

But when everything is dialed in with this imperial stout, it’s a near-ideal choice for barrel aging.

“It plays really well with oak and some of the vanillas and the coconuts that you’ll pull from a barrel. And it stands up really well to bourbon,” Langheinrich says. “The big, huge flavors can meld with a lot of stuff and stand up really well to other flavors. It’s kind of like a big red [wine] that can stand up to a steak.”

Asheville Brewing isn’t doing a barrel-aged version of Carolina Mountain Monster in 2025 but will offer a chocolate-covered cherry truffle variety.

Langheinrich is excited “to go that big dessert stout route this year,” which he says is a new direction for this beer. The brewery expects to have both versions ready by early December.

NOW OR LATER?

While it’s tempting to adhere to seasonal “rules” and stick to light-colored brews in the warmer months, Jiles is a fan of dark beers year-round, especially lower-ABV varieties.

“It’s easy to get lost in the land of hops and light lagers,” he says. “Having a complex and easy-drinking

“The big, huge flavors can meld with a lot of stuff and stand up really

well

to other flavors. It’s kind of like a big red [wine] that can stand up to a steak.”

—

Pete Langheinrich, Asheville Brewing Co.

dark beer is refreshing sometimes, like a schwarzbier, Munich dunkel or an Irish stout.”

Langheinrich likewise doesn’t limit his dark-beer imbibing based on the time of year, and the same goes for Asheville Brewing’s production schedule. Similar to Highland Brewing, whose Oatmeal Porter (5.9% ABV) is available year-round, Asheville Brewing’s flagship Ninja Porter (5.6% ABV) is made for anytime consumption.

Asheville Brewing also used to release an oatmeal stout in late July during the now-defunct annual street festival Bele Chere. It proved popular with many locals but didn’t sell as quickly as lighter fare.

“There’s no doubt that if you brew a stout in the summer, it sits around a little bit longer. But I think not everybody realizes that, like, a Guinness [Draught, 4.2% ABV] — that is a light-body, eating-drinking stout. I would drink that on the hottest day,” Langheinrich says.

“With an imperial stout, if it’s 90 degrees, maybe you don’t want a superthick, high-alcohol beer. But I think it’s cool when you see breweries breaking that mold and doing stuff in the summertime. We play around with it a little bit, but [Carolina Mountain Monster] has always been a winter seasonal.”

As for recommending other area breweries’ seasonal dark beers, Langheinrich was impressed by Zillicoah Beer Co.’s espresso stout, which he says has a rich flavor profile despite a low ABV. He’s also a fan of Hi-Wire Brewing’s 10W-40 Imperial Stout series — tasty, viscous brews named in honor of the motor oil they visually resemble. In addition to the 8% ABV base beer, the brewery regularly rolls out such creative varieties as crème brûlée, coconut chocolate bar and even a king cake for Mardi Gras. Meanwhile, Jiles takes a more diplomatic approach in recommending his peers’ dark beers but is no less supportive.

“I feel like the brewers in Western North Carolina are making some of the best beers in the world,” he says. “And if they have a dark beer on the menu and you need a flavor change up, order one and support local.” X

Second serving

EDWIN ARNAUDIN

Martha and chef Peter Pollay have expanded their contemporary American cuisine restaurant, Posana, with a new location in Biltmore Park.

The business’s second installment opened Oct. 9 at 264 Thetford St., next to the Regal Biltmore Grande

movie theater in the former home of Leo’s Italian Social.

The restaurant’s original location opened downtown in 2009 and established its reputation through its 100% gluten-free menu and kitchen. The Biltmore Park addition features a new lunch and weekend brunch menu, plus such longtime customer favorites as the kale salad,

seasonal house-made gnocchi, and pasta, meat and seafood dishes, and rotating specials. Posana’s house cocktails and acclaimed wine list are also available.

Stratton Design Group, Laura Hudson Architecture and BeverlyGrant General Contractors designed the space, which includes indoor and outdoor dining, a sizable bar and a lounge area.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f5l.

Build your own coffin (cheese board)

Asheville Charcuterie Co. gets in on the Halloween fun with the resurrection of its Build Your Own Coffin Cheese Board event on Thursday, Oct. 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Attendees will spend the hour learning about cheeses and seasonal pairings while creating their own coffin-shaped cheeseboard. Tickets are $81.88 and include all ingredients plus step-bystep guidance.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/prz2.

South Slope Halloween bar crawl

Minnesota-based bar crawl and social event planning company Crawl With US will offer a two-day Halloween bar crawl event on Asheville’s South Slope, Friday-Saturday, Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 4 p.m.-midnight. Tickets are $29.69 per person ($24.05 each when booking groups of four or more) and include access to both nights with two to three free drinks or shots, exclusive drink and food specials, a stadium cup and bottle-opener lanyard, professional photography and access to afterparties. Among the participating venues are Banks Ave. Bar, Daddy Mac’s, Dalton Distillery, Green Man Brewery, Hi-Wire Brewing, One World Brewing, The One Stop and the Tiki Easy Bar. Rather than move from location to location as one giant group, attendees can choose their own adventure 4-10 p.m., then partake in the afterparty beginning at 9 p.m.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/wordcapq.

Cold Mountain Beer Dinner returns

Fans of Highland Brewing Co.’s Cold Mountain Winter Ale can start off the release weekend for the beer’s 2025 edition with the Cold Mountain Beer Dinner on Thursday, Nov. 6, 5-9 p.m., in the brewery's event center. Crafted in collaboration with chef Taylor Montgomery of Leicesterbased Montgomery Sky Farm, the evening begins with an experiential cocktail hour featuring two Cold Mountain tastings and a seasonal amuse-bouche. Three seated courses will follow, featuring locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients.

The first course is a Jarrahdale heirloom pumpkin dumpling made with toasted parsnip, pomegranate gelée, citrus-candied English thyme and smoked almonds, and is paired with Spruce Tip Cold Mountain. The second course is lamb osso bucco made with French lentil and chorizo stew, smoldered black-eyed pea greens, dragon carrots, pickled cranberry, guajillo pepper and hand-salted feta gremolata and ash. The lamb is paired with Crushable Cold Mountain. The third course is a chocolate ice box dessert, made with burnt meringue, poached pear and ginger, paired with Chai Cold Mountain. Tickets are sold in pairs at $135 per person with gratuity and fees included. Attendees will be granted early access to buy Cold Mountain beer (including all spin-offs) and merchandise, plus a special gift.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f5m. X

by Edwin Arnaudin | earnaudin@mountainx.com

Save Me the Waltz

Nearly 80 years after Zelda Fitzgerald’s tragic death in a fire at Montford’s Highland Hospital, the Jazz Age artist’s life and legacy continue to inspire adventurous souls — particularly those in the Asheville area.

One of the latest artistic distillations of Fitzgerald’s essence is Save Me the Waltz, which takes place Sunday, Nov. 2, at 3 p.m., at Hendersonville Theatre. Named in honor of Fitzgerald’s novel, the collaborative event features Café String Quartet performing a curated program of period compositions that, according to a press release, “reflect the emotional depth and elegance of Zelda’s era.”

Complementing the music, local storyteller Melissa Henry — professionally known as Melody — will present tales of Fitzgerald’s “brilliance, heartbreak and legacy, breathing life into a Southern icon whose brilliance and complexity continue to inspire,” according to the theater's event page. And in honor of Halloween weekend, Melody will also share personal anecdotes about her interactions with Fitzgerald’s spirit while working near the Highland Hospital grounds.

Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for students.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f5q. X

Weaverville Art Safari

The twice-yearly Weaverville Art Safari may sound as if it only highlights artists in or around downtown Weaverville, but it actually includes studios spread across northern Buncombe County and into nearby Barnardsville.

The fall edition of this self-guided, juried studio tour takes place

Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 1-2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., featuring a whopping 42 stops — nearly half of which are home to multiple artists. Founded in 2001, the event is one of the longest-running studio tours in Western North Carolina and an excellent opportunity to explore the range of creative talent in this particular regional corner. Visual art, jewelry, furniture, clothing, pottery, woodworking and more are waiting to be discovered in this freeto-attend expedition.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/apn. X

Sylva arts festivals

Jackson County has a rich arts history, and on Saturday, Nov. 8, the town of Sylva celebrates a pair of creative disciplines with two festivals — both of which are free to attend.

First up, the WNC Pottery Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Bridge Park. Potters from across the country will be on hand to discuss and sell their work, and there will be demonstrations as well as free raffle drawings on the hour.

A short walk away, at 533 W. Main St., Just American Made (JAM) Glass Gallery hosts the JAM Glass Festival, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Over 40 glassblow-

ers from the Southeast and beyond will be on hand, and live glass-blowing demonstrations will take place throughout the day.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f5s and avl.mx/prz3. X

The Gift

The giant puppets are coming! The giant puppets are coming!

Based in Chapel Hill, Paperhand Puppet Project has told ambitious, emotionally rich stories through comparably imaginative puppets and music for 25 years. To commemorate its silver anniversary, the arts collective has crafted a new show, The Gift

According to a press release, this latest production is a collection of “stories of women who protect our waters and honor the balance between giving and receiving,” incorporating a 60-foot ocean goddess, beavers, an illuminated whale, shadow puppetry and a seven-piece

live band. The Gift also features collaborations with North Carolina Poet Laureate Jaki Shelton Green and singer-songwriter Dawn Landes, and spotlights stories from Indigenous leader Crystal CavalierKeck, environmental activist Elaine Chiosso , and storytellers Louise Omoto Kessel, Brenda Wilson and Claudia Lopez

The show stops by the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 8, at 3 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Nov. 9, at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15-$40.

To learn more, visit avl.mx/f5r. X

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29

ASHEVILLE PIZZA & BREWING CO.

Wednesday Trivia, 6:30pm

CAMDEN'S COFFEE HOUSE

Open Mic Night, 7pm

ELUVIUM BREWERY

The Candleers (country), 5:30pm EULOGY

Oddisee (hip-hop, rap, funk), 8pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays, 6:30pm

GALACTIC PIZZA

Fast Eddie's Trivia, 6:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm PISGAH BREWING CO.

• Jessey Adams (country), 6pm

• Isaac Hadden’s 23rd

Birthday Super Jam (multi-genre), 9pm

SHAKEY'S

SSIN w/DJ Ragga Massive, 10pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO.

Here Come the Mummies (funk, rock), 6pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE Bombargo w/The Dirty Turkeys (soul, pop), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Hope Griffin (folk), 7pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Well-Crafted Music Series: Datrian Johnson w/Duane Simpson, Tony Black & Mike Rhodes (multi-genre), 6pm

THE ODD

Terraoke Karaoke Takeover, 9pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Sound of Sirens (altR&B, soul, pop), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Grace Helbig (comedy), 7:30pm

THIRD ROOM

Disclaimer Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic, 8pm

TWIN LEAF BREWERY

Open Mic Night, 6pm

URBAN ORCHARD

Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30

ANTIDOTE COCKTAIL

LOUNGE AT CHEMIST

Going Batty: Spooktacular Rooftop Comedy, 7pm

CROW & QUILL

Adrianne Blanks & the Oracles (surf-rock, jazz, swing), 8:30pm EULOGY

Halloween Cover Show, 8pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays (Grateful Dead & JGB tribute), 6pm

GREEN MAN BREWERY

Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm

HI-WIRE BREWING South Slope Open Mic w/Stephen Evans, 5:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

Wesley Ganey (rock, Americana), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING

An Tir Nua (Celtic), 7pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PILLAR ROOFTOP BAR

Fantastic Beats w/DJ

Ease, 7pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

The Sun Sippers (rock, reggae, dub), 6:30pm

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

STATIC AGE LOFT

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

THE GREY EAGLE

Chaparelle (country, indie-folk), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

Douglas Fur & Virginia Rabbit (blues), 7pm

THE ODD

So-Lo Volume 1: Nate Hall, Adam Faucett, Mlny Parsonz, Chvasta & Screaming Mad Dee (multi-genre), 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

A.G. Hammond (R&B, blues, jazz), 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

The Beths w/Phoebe Rings (indie-rock), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Ritual: Sound w/ Morphonic (dance, electronic), 8pm

TWIN WILLOWS

The Candleers (country), 5pm

CLUBLAND

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Songbird Holler (folk, Appalachian), 7:30pm

WICKED WEED BREWING

Beer and Loathing (rock, country, psych), 5pm

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

North Mississippi All Stars w/Luther Dickinson & Datrian Johnson (blues, Southern-rock, funk), 9pm

ASHEVILLE YARDS

Sam Barber (country, rock), 7pm

COFFEE, ART, MUSIC TYPE PLACE

Open Mic, 6pm

GREEN MAN BREWERY

75 Single Wide (rock'n'roll), 7pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Whitney Monge' Halloween Party (American, soul, indie), 8:30pm

LOBSTER TRAP

Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 6:30pm

MAD CO. BREW

HOUSE

Halloween Bash w/ White Oak Splits & Paint Rock, 6pm

MILLS RIVER

BREWING CO.

Flashback Halloween Bash (rock), 6:30pm

OKLAWAHA

BREWING CO.

The Big Throwback w/ Blake Ellege (rock, funk, R&B), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

Hustle Souls & The Shoaldiggers Halloween Party (funk, soul), 9pm

PILLAR ROOFTOP BAR West Sound Band (motown, R&B), 7pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Clouds of Delusion Halloween Show (Grateful Dead tribute), 8pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Jantsen, Stylust & Snarz (dubstep, electronic, dance), 6pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Haunted Vinyl Session w/DJ Salami Baby, Sir Man & Swamp Ape (metal, rock'n'roll, dark-wave), 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Halloween Gabber Rave (hard-tek, acid-house, gabber), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Nick Shoulders (country), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR Kindred Company (alt-rock), 7pm

FLORIDA JAM BAND: On Saturday, Nov. 1, Shiloh & Gaines hosts Tallahassee, Fla.based jam band, Strictly Liquid, starting at 9 p.m. The group draws inspiration from artists including Phish, the Grateful Dead and The Allman Brothers Band to create a fusion of psych-rock, blues, jazz, funk and more. Photo courtesy of Strictly Liquid

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

• Zach & Colby (psychsoul, rock, funk), 6pm

• Coyote Rodeo (bluegrass), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Kitchen Dwellers w/ Fireside Collective (bluegrass, country, folk), 8pm

THE STATION BLACK MOUNTAIN

Mr Jimmy (blues), 5pm

THIRD ROOM

Auspicious Golden Halloween w/AGF & JLloyd (funk, rock, psych), 9pm

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

ASHEVILLE CLUB

Mr Jimmy (blues), 6pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

McNice w/Teathyme (CharlestheFirst vs Clozee tribute), 9pm

BATTERY PARK BOOK EXCHANGE

Dinah's Daydream (jazz), 5:30pm

CORK & KEG

The Old Chevrolette Set (country), 8pm

CROW & QUILL

Firecracker Jazz Band (jazz), 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Mucho Gumbo (Cajun, country), 8pm

FUNKATORIUM

Todd Cecil & Dirt Yard

Choir (Americana, blues, Southern-rock), 4pm

GINGER'S REVENGE

Eyes Up Here Comedy: Haunted Doll Edition, 7pm

HIGHLAND BREWING

CO.

Ben Balmer (Americana, folk, blues), 3pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Nobody’s Darling String Band, 4pm

• KG & the Drive (indie, rock), 8:30pm

OAK AND GRIST

DISTILLING CO. Saturday Sounds, 5pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Billingsley (funk, R&B, rock), 8pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING

Scott Stetson (country, Americana), 7pm

ONE WORLD

BREWING WEST

• Rhythm & Blues

Dance w/Peggy Ratusz & Daddy Longlegs (blues), 4pm

• The Art of House w/Kevin Nowell, Earl Grae, Big Kev & Reality (dance, electronic, house), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Adam Knight's Buried Alive (Phish tribute), 8pm

SHILOH & GAINES

Strictly Liquid (funk, psychedelic, rock'n'roll), 9pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO.

Strange Rangers (pop, funk, soul), 2pm

STATIC AGE LOFT Sanctum (dark-dance, goth, dark-wave), 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS Nox Eternus, Blaakhol & Antiquity (black-metal, doom-death), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE Mustache The Band (country), 8pm

THE HOUND LOUNGE Hell Hounds: Dark & Dirty Comedy Show, 10pm

THE MEADOW AT HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Well-Crafted Music Series: Whitney Mongé (multi-genre), 6pm

THE ODD Party Foul Drag, 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Riyen Roots (blues, soul), 6pm

• Gordon Sterling & the People (soul, rock), 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Kitchen Dwellers w/ Fireside Collective (bluegrass, country, folk), 8pm

THIRD ROOM

Mindex & Cosmodernism w/Maxfield (electronic, jazz, hip-hop), 9pm

URBAN ORCHARD Zombie Disco, 4pm

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY Open Mic Night, 7pm

EULOGY

Phil Cook w/William Tyler (folk, bluegrass), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S The Phantom A.D. & Monster Wave (rock'n'roll, surf), 9pm

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

GINGER'S REVENGE CRAFT BREWERY & TASTING ROOM Sunday Jazz Jam, 2:30pm

HIGHLAND BREWING CO.

Trusty Hucksters (swing, jazz, rock), 2pm JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

• Bluegrass Brunch w/ The Bluegrass Brunch Boys, 12pm

• Traditional Irish Music Session, 3:30pm OKLAWAHA BREWING CO. Nikky Talley w/Jason Sharp (folk, Americana), 4pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST Suns of Stars Sunday Residency (bluegrass), 2pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Sunday Jam: Kyle Travers, 6:30pm

S & W MARKET

Mr Jimmy (blues), 1pm

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO.

Daniel Shearin (acoustic), 2pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Open Mic w/Mike Andersen, 6:30pm

THE ODD

Destroy All Music w/ Jimbo, 1pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC

HALL

Shakedown Sunday's, 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Indigo De Souza w/ Mothé (alt-rock, altpop), 8pm

TURGUA BREWING

CO

Birds & Brews Trivia, 4pm

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3

27 CLUB

Rock Star Karaoke w/ Grimm Morrison, 9pm

FLEETWOOD'S

Best Ever Karaoke w/ Honey, 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Alex Bazemore & Friends (bluegrass), 6pm

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

SHAKEY'S

Live Band Honky Tonk Karaoke, 9pm

STATIC AGE LOFT

Hot Seat Comedy w/C.J. Green, 8pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Balu Brigada (alt-pop), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Mr. Jimmy & Friends (Blues), 7pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Purity Ring w/ yuniVERSe (electro-pop, synth-pop), 8pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN

Local Live Presents:

Jason Homan & Joe Milligan (multi-genre), 7pm

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

DALTON DISTILLERY

Not Rocket Science Trivia, 8pm

EDA'S HIDE-A-WAY

Eda's Bluegrass Jam, 6:30pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Robert's Totally Rad Trivia, 7pm

LOOKOUT BREWING CO. Team Trivia, 6:30pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Clouds of Delusion (Grateful Dead tribute), 7pm

REVIVAL

Bravo Reality: Trivia, 7pm

SHAKEY'S Booty Tuesday in The Office, 10pm

SOVEREIGN KAVA Open jam, 8pm

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Coral Grief, Idle County & Star Anise (dreampop, rock, shoegaze), 8:45pm

THE JOINT NEXT DOOR

Moonbeatz (rock, folk, country), 6pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

• Early Tuesday Jam, 7pm

• Uncle Lenny's Krazy Karaoke, 10pm

THE ORANGE PEEL Viagra Boys w/The Black Lips (post-punk, garage rock), 8pm

WHITE HORSE BLACK MOUNTAIN Nothin But the Blues Jam, 7:30pm

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5

12 BONES

SMOKEHOUSE & BREWING

Trivia w/King Trivia, 7pm

ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Night Cap (indie-rock), 8pm

CAMDEN'S COFFEE HOUSE

Open Mic Night, 7pm

FLEETWOOD'S Jake Latakas Orral, Chris Lyons & Tristen Colby (folk-rock, psych, noise), 8:30pm

FOOTHILLS GRANGE Trivia Night, 6:30pm

FRENCH BROAD RIVER BREWERY

Saylor Brothers Jamgrass Wednesdays, 6:30pm

GALACTIC PIZZA Fast Eddie's Trivia, 6:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Old Time Jam, 5pm

PISGAH BREWING

CO.

David Mulder's Bear Bones w/Lee Kram & Garrett Andrews (Grateful Dead & JGB tribute), 6pm

SHAKEY'S SSIN w/DJ Ragga Massive, 10pm

SLY GROG LOUNGE

Weird Wednesday Open Jam, 7pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Jordan Tice & Joseph Terrell (folk, rock, jazz), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

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

THE MULE

Jazz Trio & Wine Wednesdays, 6pm

THE ODD

M.D.C, On the Block & Halogi (punk, rock'n'roll, metal), 8pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Tape B w/ Super Future & ASHEZ (dubstep, edm, hip-hop), 8pm

URBAN ORCHARD

Wayward Trivia, 6:30pm

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

CROW & QUILL

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

EULOGY

Beach Fossils (dreampop, alt-indie), 8pm

FLEETWOOD'S

Soul Shrapnel, Ton of a B!tch & Call the Next Witness (punk), 9pm

FRENCH BROAD

RIVER BREWERY

Jerry's Dead Thursdays (Grateful Dead & JGB tribute), 6pm

GREEN MAN BREWERY

Thursday Night Trivia, 7pm

HI-WIRE BREWING

South Slope Open Mic w/Stephen Evans, 5:30pm

JACK OF THE WOOD PUB

Bluegrass Jam w/Drew Matulich, 7pm

LEVELLER BREWING

CO.

Old Time Jam, 6pm

OKLAWAHA BREWING CO.

David Clare Duo (folk, pop), 7pm

ONE WORLD BREWING WEST

Fee Fi Phaux Fish (Phish tribute), 8pm

PISGAH BREWING CO.

Rick Hornyak & The Highway Companions (Americana, rock), 7pm

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

STATIC AGE LOFT

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

STATIC AGE RECORDS

Peter the Poet, Sxvxnt, C-Shreve the Professor, Kuh-Leeb & WizeDev (hip-hop, soul, R&B), 9pm

THE GREY EAGLE

Dirty French Broads (Americana, bluegrass), 8pm

THE JOINT NEXT

DOOR

Crimson Moon (rock), 7pm

THE ODD City Mouse, Warmones & Codapen (pop, punk), 8pm

THE ONE STOP AT ASHEVILLE MUSIC HALL

Florencia & the Feeling (pop-funk), 9pm

THE ORANGE PEEL

Little Stranger w/JARV & Damn Skippy (hiphop, indie), 8pm

FREEWILL ASTROLOGY BY

ARIES (March 21-April 19): On the outskirts of a village in Ghana, a healer gathers plants only when the moon says yes. She speaks the names of each leaf aloud, as if to ask permission, and never picks more than needed. She trusts that each herb has its own wisdom that she can learn from. I invite you to emulate her approach, Aries. Now is a good time to search for resources you need to heal and thrive. The best approach is to be receptive to what life brings you, and approach with reverence and gratitude. Halloween costume suggestion: herbalist, traditional healer, sacred botanist.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A well-cut ship’s sail is not a flat sheet. It has a gentle curve that the sailmaker crafts stitch by stitch so the wind will catch and convert invisible pressure into forward motion. Too taut, and the cloth flaps, wasting energy; too loose, and power dissipates. The miracle lies in geometry tuned to an unseen current. I invite you to be inspired by this approach, Taurus. Build curvature into your plans so that optimism isn’t an afterthought but a structural feature. Calibrate your approaches to natural processes so movement arises from alignment rather than brute effort. Make sure your progress is fueled by what you love and trust. Halloween costume suggestion: Wear a sail.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): All of us can benefit from regular phases of purification: periods when we dedicate ourselves to cleansing, shedding, and simplifying. During these intense times of self-healing, we might check our integrity levels to see if they remain high. We can atone for mistakes, scrub away messy karma, and dismantle wasteful habits. Here’s another essential practice: disconnecting ourselves from influences that lower our energy and demean our soul. The coming weeks will be a perfect time to engage in these therapeutic pleasures, Gemini. Halloween costume suggestion: purifier, rejuvenator, cleanser, refiner.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Deep in the Pacific Ocean, male humpback whales sing the longest, slowest, most intricate love songs ever. Their bass tones are loud and strong, sometimes traveling for miles before reaching their intended recipients. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to compose and unleash your own ultimate love songs, Cancerian. Your emotional intelligence is peaking, and your passionate intensity is extra refined and attractive. Meditate on the specific nature of the gifts you want to offer and receive in return. Halloween costume suggestion: singer of love songs.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Between 1680 and 1725, Italy's Antonio Stradivari and his family made legendary violins that are highly valued today. They selected alpine spruce trees and Balkan maple, seasoned the wood for years, and laid varnish in painstaking layers that produced sublime resonance. Their genius craftsmanship can be summed up as the cumulative magic of meticulousness over time. I recommend their approach to you, Leo. Be in service to the long game. Commune with people, tools, and commitments that age well. Act on the theory that beautiful tone is perfected in layers. Halloween costume suggestion: a fine craftsperson.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Trained women dancers in Rajasthan, India, perform the ancient art of *bhavai*. As folk music plays, they balance on the dull edge of a sword and hold up to 20 clay pots on their head. They sway with elegance and artistry, demonstrating an ultimate embodiment of “grace under pressure.” I don’t foresee challenges as demanding as that for you, Virgo. But I suspect you will have the poise and focus to accomplish the metaphorical equivalents of such a feat. Halloween costume suggestion: regal acrobat or nimble dancer.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In 1968, researchers at Stanford conducted the “marshmallow test." Children were offered a single sweet treat

ROB BREZSNY

immediately. But if they didn't quickly gobble down the marshmallow, thus postponing their gratification, they were awarded with two candies later. The kids who held out for the double reward didn’t do so by sheer willpower alone. Rather, they found clever ways to distract themselves to make the wait more bearable: making up games, focusing their attention elsewhere, and adjusting their surroundings. I advise you to learn from their approach, Libra. Cultivate forbearance and poise without dimming your passion. Harness small triumphs of willpower into generating big, long-term gains. Diligent, focused effort invested now will almost certainly lead to satisfying outcomes. So please prioritize incremental, systematic grunt work over stunts and adrenaline. Halloween costume trick: carry two marshmallows.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In the late 18th century, Balloonomania came to Paris. Large crowds gathered to watch inventors and impresarios send hot air balloons into the sky. Spectators were astonished, fearful, and filled with wonder. Some wept, and some fainted. I suspect you’re due for your own exhilarating lift-off, Scorpio—a surge of inspiration that may bewilder a few witnesses but will delight those with open minds. Halloween costume prop: wings.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t be too shocked by my unusual list of raw materials that might soon turn out to be valuable: grime, muck, scuzz, scum, slop, bilge, slime, and glop. Amazingly, this stuff may conceal treasures or could be converted into unexpected building materials. So I dare you to dive in and explore the disguised bounty. Proceed on the assumption that you will find things you can use when you distrust first impressions and probe beneath surfaces. Halloween costume suggestions: sacred janitor, recycling wizard, garbage genius.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In the tidepools of America’s Pacific Northwest lives the ochre starfish, a keystone species that keeps mussel populations in check. Remove the starfish, and the ecosystem collapses into imbalance. Let’s make this creature your power symbol, Capricorn. The visible effect of your presence may not be flashy or vivid, but you will hold a stabilizing role in a group, project, or relationship. Your quiet influence can keep things harmonious. Your gift is not to dominate the scene, but to keep the whole system alive and diverse. Halloween costume suggestion: ochre starfish (More info: tinyurl.com/OchreStarfish).

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): For hundreds of years, the Blackfoot people of North America built buffalo jumps. These were steep cliffs where herds of bison could be guided and driven over the edge during a hunt. It required elaborate cooperation. Scouts tracked the herd, decoys lured them toward the drop, and prep teams waited below to process the meat, hides, and bones for the whole community’s sustenance. I hope you will engage in smaller versions of this project. Now is an excellent time to initiate, inspire, and foster shared efforts. Make it a high priority to work with allies you trust. Halloween costume suggestions: shepherd, sheep dog, cowboy, vaquero.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In the ancient Greek world, oracles spoke in riddles. This was not because they were coy, but because they understood that truth must often arrive obliquely. Directness is overrated when the soul is in motion. Mythic modes of perception don’t obey the laws of logic. In this spirit, Pisces, I invite you to make riddles and ambiguities be your allies. A dream, an overheard conversation, or a misheard lyric may contain an enigmatic but pithy code. You should be alert for messages that arrive sideways and upside down. Tilt your head. Read between the flames. You will understand when your heart recognizes what your mind can’t name. Halloween costume suggestion: oracle or fortune-teller.

MARKETPLACE

ESTATE & RENTALS | ROOMMATES

Want to advertise in Marketplace? 828-251-1333 advertise@mountainx.com • mountainx.com/classifieds

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Remember the Russian proverb: “Doveryai, no proveryai,” trust but verify. When answering classified ads, always err on the side of caution. Especially beware of any party asking you to give them financial or identification information. The Mountain Xpress cannot be responsible for ensuring that each advertising client is legitimate. Please report scams to advertise@mountainx.com

REAL ESTATE AUCTIONS

LIQUIDATION AUCTION Saturday, November 1st @10am 828 West Main Street Albemarle, NC. Large Commercial Plumbing Company with Like New Tooling and Large Inventory of Pipes, Fittings, etc. www.ClassicAuctions. com 704-791-8825 NCAF5479 (NC Press)

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC TIMESHARE CANCELLATION EXPERTS

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HANDY MAN

HANDY MAN 40 years experience in the trades, with every skill/tool imaginable for all trades with the exception of HVAC. No job too small. $35 an hour. Carl (828) 551-6000 electricblustudio@gmail.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CONNECT TO THE BEST WIRELESS home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-873-2215 (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)

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-866-430-5905 (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)

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! 1-877-920-7405. (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: 1-833426-0086. (AAN CAN)

DIRECTV All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-855606-4520 (AAN CAN)

These special issues focus on the trends, triumphs and challenges of local nonprofits, making it an ideal platform to promote your mission and share your contributions with the community!

HOME BREAK-INS Take less than 60 seconds. Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢ a day! Call 1-833-881-2713 (AAN CAN)

MOBILEHELP America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety and peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call today! 1-877-667-4685 (AAN CAN)

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)

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

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)

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)

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: 1-833-880-7762 (AAN CAN)

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-833-9281861. Have zip code of service location ready when you call! (NC Press)

WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS-IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Call today for your fair cash offer: 1-877-939-1331 (AAN CAN)

WE BUY VINTAGE GUITARS

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

(AAN CAN)

WE BUY VINTAGE GUITARS!

Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. These brands only! Call for a quote: 1-833-641-6577 (NC Press)

WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC TIMESHARE CANCELLATION EXPERTS

Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees canceled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 888-9601781. (AAN CAN)

FOR MUSICIANS

MUSICAL SERVICES

MUSICIANS! LOOKING FOR A PRACTICE/RECORDING SPACE? In South Asheville. 8 track tape machine, 16 track mixing board. Amps & full drumset, vocal booth, live & control rooms. Soundproofed. Mostly weekend availability. Call Carl 828-551-6000

MARKETPLACE

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

NO MORE CLEANING OUT GUTTERS. GUARANTEED! LeafFilter is the most advanced gutter protection for your home, backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferable warranty. Call today 1-877-649-1190 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Plus get 20% off! Seniors and military save an additional 10%. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details. (NC Press)

CONTROLLING THE CLUTTER

ACROSS

1 Light touches

5 Domino features

9 Maine-to-Spain direction

13 Frequently

14 MacDowell of “Groundhog Day”

16 Start of a new deal

17 Participate in a blindside on “Survivor,” say 18 Dance craze named for a Southern city

20 Possible meaning of 54-/57-Across

22 Possible meaning of 54-/57-Across

23 Cannonball Adderley’s musical instrument, informally

24 Lead-in to struck or luck

26 Fashionable time to arrive, it’s said

27 “Odyssey” figure with many suitors

30 Carry a debt

32 Business magnate

35 A hawk carrying a dove in its talons, in Book 15 of the “Odyssey”

36 Affectionate sign-off

37 Like thrifted goods

38 What’s heard exactly twice in a lifetime?

40 The Emerald Isle

41 Tabs with psychedelic properties

42 Hang in the balance

43 Soft volleyball hits

44 Jazz genre for Cannonball Adderley

45 Worked to learn

48 James of “The Godfather”

50 Thailand, once

51 A.L. West team, on scoreboards

54 & 57 Gesture depicted by this puzzle’s circled letters

59 Taunt that may follow a failed gullibility test

61 Bit of merchandise

62 ___ impasse

63 Put off for now

64 Situated above

65 Witty remark

66 Craft store item

67 “Hey!” DOWN

1 Viola of “The Woman King”

2 “So long, Oahu!”

3 Wrinkle smoother

4 Part of a flight

5 Clothing chain that began as a surf shop

6 Like some tutoring and eldercare

7 Smooching on a park bench, e.g., for short

8 One who’s given many instructions nowadays

9 G.P.A. enhancer

10 Neutralizing serum

11 Masonry

12 100 C-notes

15 Stately shade provider

19 2011

21 Word aptly hidden in “unspoiled enclave”

Lightheaded sorts?

Capsule

[Shocking!]

Least-populous Canadian province: Abbr. 31 Ones paying or receiving alimony

Future amaryllis, e.g.

Colleague

Colorful ring-tailed mammals of Asia

Spy novelist Deighton

Most-populous Canadian province: Abbr.

40 Festival at the end of Ramadan, informally

42 Like the scent of some air fresheners

43 Floor model, often 46 Swiss cough drop brand 47 Squealed: Var. 49 Word with double or free

Hurdles for future J.D.s 52 Nestlé bars filled with tiny bubbles

Skillful

Key of Mozart’s Symphony No. 6: Abbr.

Squealer

Thick piece

Cashless deal

U.K.