At 3’x5', “Shelly” is a bit bigger than your average turtle. | Photo via NC Arboretum
Echoes of the Forest, a local nonprofit turning trees downed by Helene into artistic memorials, has unveiled its second “echo.” Artist Mike Ayers of Mountain Mike’s Whetstone Woodworks created this beautiful box turtle dubbed “Shelly” that now resides in the Playing Woods at the NC Arboretum.
The nonprofit is in talks to place future pieces in many other prominent or storm-affected locations throughout WNC. The ultimate goal is to create a tree trail, marking each location with an expressive, meaningful monument to the region’s resilience.
You can find another echo, a stunning bench by Chester Shuey of Appalachian Joinery, in front of Foundation Woodworks in the RAD.
To support Echoes of the Forest and potentially own a special piece of the project, you can buy a $10 raffle ticket for the chance to win a hand-crafted owl by Ayers. The winner will be announced on Sunday, Sept. 28.
Money.com’s car insurance comparison tool could save you up to 19%. | Photo via Shutterstock
There’s a lot we don’t know. But we do know that “15 minutes could save you 15% or more” by switching car insurance providers.
Why? This marketing campaign works because the numbers speak for themselves — and the claim is true.
Comparing car insurance really can save you 10% to 19% more money. And Money.com has an easy-to-use (and free) car insurance tool to help you find providers in Asheville. Check it out.
Cozy new Italian eatery Piccolina is celebrating its soft opening in the Aura Arts building in the RAD. Stop by for lunch this weekend from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Neapolitan pizza and sandwiches, like the Porchetta with tomato conserva, calabrian chili, stracciatella, and olive oil.
Concert
GZA, founding member of the Wu Tang Clan and all-around hip-hop legend, is bringing his Liquid Swords 30th Anniversary Tour to Eulogy on Saturday, Nov. 22. Tickets go on sale today, Sept. 26 at 12 p.m.
Announced
Casablanca Cigar Bar announced an early 2026 reopening for its Biltmore Village location. The bar’s return will bring an expanded cocktail program, more seating, and enhanced ventilation. To keep up with even more Biltmore Village business reopenings, follow Historic Biltmore Village on social media.
Drink
Imperial is entering a new era with industry vet Drew Hendrickson taking the reins. The upstairs cocktail bar and dance floor will remain, while downstairs will become The Imperial Taproom, serving beer and draft cocktails. Starting Thursday, Oct. 2, Imperial Street Food will take over the Dizzy’s Glizzies window, led by Jargon’s former executive chef Ryan Kline.
Number
$3.58 million. That’s how much grant funding Mountain BizWorks recently received to continue to support long-term recovery for regional businesses. In the first round of its WNC Strong: Recover Forward grant program, it provided $2.3 million across 149 businesses. The new grant funding will support the program’s second round in October.
Arts
Josh Copus, owner of Zadie’s and Old Marshall Jail, is organizing a community brick project to build a folk monument at the jail this spring. See the concepts for the project and learn how to make a brick or volunteer to help the monument come to life.
Biz
At AVLtoday, we share hyper-local and need-to-know information about your Asheville faves. Now, it’s time for you to tell us the best biz in the city. Click on this form to start nominating in various categories.
Health
More access to healthcare is coming to Western North Carolina — and it’s closer than you might think.AdventHealth is expanding in Weaverville to better meet the needs of a growing community. Check out the details.*
Shop
At Warby Parker, every pair of glasses starts at $95. Pick your perfect pair and experience eye care that’s simple, convenient, and delightful.*
Yesterday, Sept. 25, marked the anniversary of The Doors’ 1967 album, “Strange Days,” which is considered one of the first major rock albums to use Moog synthesizers. According to Moog’s post, Morrison’s distorted vocals you hear on the title track were achieved by routing through a Moog modular synthesizer.
Go ahead and give the album another listen and brush up on your knowledge of Bob Moog and his legacy here in Asheville by paying a visit to the Moogseum downtown.
Swap this summer’s top trending beaded bags for something a little more seasonally appropriate: rich hues of leather + luxurious suede. These are our top five bags for fall:
👜 We’re calling it now: This softly-brushed, chocolate-hued suede purse will be the bag of the season.
👜 Lucky Brand’s full-grain leather mini tote features top handles and a removable crossbody strap for added versatility.
👜 Level up any autumn outfit with this elegant satchel bag that’s on sale for under $40.
👜 This stadium-approved clear handbag is the perfect game day accessory.
👜 Luxuriously soft handfeel and rugged durability are two standout features of this fun heart-shaped leather purse.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
It’s undoubtedly been a hard and emotional week as we reflect on the one year anniversary of Helene. Whether you’re feeling grief, gratitude, or likely a mixture of both, there’s a spot for you to reflect with others at Resources for Resilience’s virtual listening circle this afternoon. A year later, the organization continues to host free weekly programming for WNC residents affected by Helene.
