We’re putting pumpkin adventures on the map. | Proxi map by AVLtoday
As the weather cools and the leaves start to turn, local farms become the go-to spots for hayrides, corn mazes, and picking out the perfect porch pumpkin.
Use our interactive map to find Linus-approved pumpkins near you, whether they’re from a U-pick spot, a local farm store, or even a porch decorating service. After plotting your pumpkin picking adventures, explore more fall fun by clicking the button below.
Buncombe County Commissioners approved nearly $637,000 in funding to help protect nearly 600 acres across eight local farms. Seven farms received funds for transactional costs, while one farm earned funding to complete its easement. Once appraisals for the seven farms are complete, staff will return to commissioners for additional funding to finalize protection.
Opening
Vintage clothing store House of Kismet lost its Foundy Street storefront during the storm, but the shop announced it’s popping up downtown through the winter. Head to 59 Haywood St. (near Malaprop’s) to shop a curated selection of vintage threads Thursday-Monday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Health
United Healthcare gave $500,000 to Buncombe County Emergency Services’ Community Paramedics program, creating two and a half new grant-funded positions. Community Paramedics visit high-risk patients in their homes and administer follow up care to reduce inpatient hospitalization.
Closing
Local grocery delivery service Mother Earth Food will close in November after 13 years. CEO Andrea DuVall detailed losses from Helene and the ending of Medicaid’s Healthy Opportunities Pilot program as reasons for closing. In the final weeks, you can purchase a donation box to be delivered to a family facing food insecurity. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Cause
National nonprofit Can’d Aid is teaming up with dessert brand Yasso to give the kids of Emma Elementary school some new wheels. Next Thursday, Oct. 16 at 5:30 p.m., volunteers are needed to help build 110 bikes that will be donated to first and second graders the following day. Sign up to help.
Ranked
Jettie Rae’s, Posana, and Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian South all made the cut in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for 2025 in the US casual dining category — and we think Asheville representing three of the 25 spots is pretty special.
Weather
It’s starting to feel more like fall with temperatures dropping after a cold front moved in on Wednesday. Expect temperatures in the higher 60s and lows in the 40s for the rest of the week, with the potential for frost on some high elevation mountain areas. (828 News Now)
Jobs
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
AdventHealth is planning a new hospital in Weaverville and has applied for a Certificate of Need to add 129 more beds to the 92 already approved. Community support is vital to expand care and ensure local families have access to the services they need. Learn more + support.*
Featured Deal
Hydrow’s Fall Sale brings immersive rowing workouts all from the comfort of your own home. Train like a pro and save big — use code NOTES to enjoy $600 off Origin, $200 off Wave, or $100 off Arc.*
The 12,214-sqft base will have 12 bedrooms and hold six emergency vehicles. | Rendering via Buncombe County
Buncombe County is building its first standalone EMS base to reduce emergency response times in the Eastern portion of the county. The ~$10 million facility will be built in front of Owen Pool in Swannanoa and will be operational 24/7.
The 12,214-sqft facility will hold 12 bedrooms and a six emergency vehicle bay. A groundbreaking event for the base will be hosted in late November — the base is expected to be up and running in early 2027.
The Eastern base isn’t the only EMS facility the county has in the works as the population grows and call volumes increase. Buncombe County recently spent $1.8 million on 7 acres at 359 Brevard Rd. to build a West Asheville EMS base. Plans for this site are still in early stages, with no details yet regarding design or construction timelines.
The Buy
A pair of versatile men’s pants that offer a stylish, yet relaxed fit. Whether it’s for work, on the golf course, or a date night, these straight fit pants are crafted with premium, four-way stretch fabric for a refined look that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
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.
Mahjong is having a moment, and Provisions Mercantile is here to help you get in on the fun. The store is welcoming Mahj Made Easy, a group of instructors from Greenville, for guided play and beginner lessons. Check out the schedule.
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