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“Fluvial” debuts downtown
Artist Rachel David stands next to her stunning sculpture. | Photo via City of Asheville
It’s been 23 years since the Urban Trail’s last stop was completed. But yesterday, Nov. 13, a new piece was officially unveiled. “Fluvial,” a sculpture by metal worker Rachel David of Red Metal, has been installed outside the S&W building — it replaces the long vacant Station #7 after its original mosaic was removed due to damage and building renovations.
“Fluvial” pays homage to the Art Deco stylings of architect Douglas Ellington, who designed the S&W building. Not only is it a stunning sculpture, but it also functions as seating.
In the spirit of the new public art piece, take a journey through all 30 stations along the Urban Trail to learn a little more about our city’s history.
Buncombe County’s food drive has collected 8,500+ pounds of food (about 7,000 meals) and will end next week — but there’s still time to donate nonperishable items at local libraries and county facilities through Saturday, Nov. 22.
Regional
Last night, Gov. Stein honored six North Carolina Award recipients during a ceremony at the Omni Grove Park Inn. He also recognized eight “Helene Heroes” for their service during the storm, including MANNA FoodBank CEO Claire Neal and Yancey County nurse Amanda Watts, who helped run the Burnsville Field Hospital.
Environment
Crews began containing two wildfires in Buncombe County yesterday afternoon. The Enka Candler Fire Department and NC Forest Service are responding to a fire in the Milk Sick Cove area, while Fairview crews address another near Lower Brush Creek and Burney Mountain Road. Check county communications for updates.
Legacy
Local blues songstress Kat Williams has died at 58, according to the Artists Music Guild. Williams discovered her passion for singing in an Asheville karaoke bar and went on to share her talents with audiences across the US, earning an Emmy nomination for her work with “Hands of Hope.” (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Civic
Buncombe County Commissioners have begun budget work sessions for the Fiscal Year 2027, running July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027. Budget considerations include funding for Deaverview Mountain Park staffing and operations, Code Enforcement Team expansion, and security at county facilities.
Edu
Amid stalled state budgets and shifting student enrollment, Buncombe County Schools approved a $417.6 million budget for 2025–26. Officials warned of uncertainties in federal funding but said they’re pursuing grants to maintain programs and staffing. (Mountain Xpress)
Open
Upscale Mexican spot XICO (pronounced shee-ko)opens tomorrow, Nov. 15 on South Biltmore Avenue. Reservations for this weekend are looking hard to snag, but you can browse the menu of wood-fired flavors and fresh seafood in the meantime.
History
On this day in 1972, the Tennessee Valley Authority abandoned plans to build 14 dams throughout WNC’s French Broad River watershed after strong citizen opposition. The $125 million project would have submerged 18,000 acres and displaced hundreds, but grassroots activism by the Upper French Broad Defense Association stopped it.
Seasonal
You can extend some holiday cheer to neighbors in need by donating items to Buncombe County Health Services’ foster youth gift list or fulfilling wishes on the adult wish tree. Learn how to contribute.
Try This
Today’s Best voting is in full swing, and there’s still time to give your two cents. Remember, you can vote once per day. Share the love and vote for your favorite local businesses.
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Wellness
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Shop
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about?*
Category
Culture
📖 A beloved bar’s new chapter
The cozy spot is a downtown staple. | Photo via Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar
Erin and Matt Clare, cofounders of West Asheville’s Story Parlor, are launching a new chapter, taking over ownership of the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar.
Back in May, owners Donna and Thomas Wright announced their retirement after nearly 20 years at the helm of the downtown spot.
“Our intention is to honor the heart of what Battery Park has always been — while inviting new stories to unfold within its walls,” said Erin Clare. The new owners plan to announce new programming next month, including literary salons, author talks, and storytelling events.
You can also expect operating hours to be extended come spring. Now, head to the Grove Arcade bookshop + bar and raise a glass to its next era.
The Buy
As temperatures continue to fall, we’re leaning into our cold-weather essentials. Here are three we absolutely swear by:
👖 Really good fleece-lined leggings with pockets. The thermal lining delivers extra warmth without compromising on stretch and breathability.
🛌 A top-rated long sleeve pj set for maximum comfort and coziness during fall and winter nights.
✋ A pair of rechargeable handwarmers with three temperature settings and up to 36 hours of battery life. Bonus: They include a portable charging case for power on the go.
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.
If you’re stopping by to see “Fluvial” this weekend, I suggest popping into the Times Bar for a hot house mulled cider. Sure, it’ll be 70 degrees outside, but ‘tis the season.
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