There are just two days left to choose the best of the best in Asheville. Don’t miss out + vote for AVLtoday’s Best before voting ends tomorrow, Nov. 25.
The Riverside Park expansion is estimated to wrap up in December of 2026. | Rendering via Equinox
Buncombe County Commissioners have approved $3,626,262 for six passive recreation projects, funded through the $30 million Open Space Bond passed by voters in 2022.
During its Tuesday, Nov. 18 meeting, commissioners awarded funding per the recommendations of the Passive Recreation Lands Subcommittee, which guides Open Space Bond spending.
Worx Community Forest Trail Development - Camp Grier | $687,500
Hominy Creek Greenway - Asheville Greenworks/Friends of Hominy Creek | $326,174
Gateway Park - RiverLink | $200,000
Improving Public Access & Use of Lands - Warren Wilson College | $150,000
Haw Creek Park Greenway - Haw Creek Community Association | $127,784
Once finished, the projects will create 221 acres of new public recreation space and 14 miles of trails and multi-use paths. You can keep up with Open Space Bond spending with the county’s interactive dashboard.
Asheville leaders have reportedly chosen a new city manager and will announce the person chosen to succeed current city manager Debra Campbell on Friday, Dec. 5. (WLOS)
Cause
Donate new, unwrapped toys for the 14th Annual Ingles Magical Christmas Toy Drive, Thursday, Dec. 4 through Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Ingles on Smokey Park Highway. The toys are given to local families for free through Eblen Charities’ St. Nicholas Toy Store, which spread cheer to more than 6,500 children last year.
Environment
The Utopian Seed Project has a new farm and big plans for a seed-processing barn, workshop, and kitchen to support regional growers. To help plans sprout, The Wanda & Jim Moran Foundation is matching donations up to $50,000 through the end of the year. Support the mission to grow a more resilient food system.
Listen
Citizen Vinyl announced “Winter’s Grace,” a holiday benefit album benefiting MusiCares and ArtsAVL in post-Helene recovery efforts. The nine-song record features a host of WNC talent, including Reggie Headen, Melissa McKinney, and Peggy Ratusz. Preorder the limited edition LP or snag a digital copy.
Holiday
828NewsNow has rounded up a list of places where any community member can go to enjoy a free hot meal this Thanksgiving. On select days this week, Mehfil and Crusco are also serving free or pay-what-you-can community meals to anyone in need.
Outdoors
According to agriculture outlet Farm Flavor, Buncombe County generates more than $39.2 million in farm sales, led by nursery and greenhouse output. You can go straight to the source and shop plants, produce, and ready-made goods at our local farmers markets. (Mountain Xpress)
Festival
The lineup for Bear Shadow Music Festival is out, and it sure is noteworthy. The three-day Highlands, NC fest will bring Trombone Shorty, Mavis Staples, Charley Crockett, Margo Price, and more to the stage, Friday, May 29-Sunday, May 31.
Jobs
Whether you’re a small business looking to grow your team or a large company filling a key role, our Job Board can connect you with engaged, qualified locals who are ready to work. Post your open roles for free + watch the applications roll in.
Read
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Claim your boarding pass in the brand new ticket lobby. | Photo via Asheville Regional Airport
82 million. That’s how many Americans are projected to travel 50+ miles for Thanksgiving — a new AAA record. Hopping on a plane? To help make your time at Asheville Regional Airport as smooth as possible, we’ve created a guide that covers everything from shuttles and parking to details on the airport’s 20+ nonstop flights.
What to know
Peak hours | In November, peak hours usually occur from 6-8 a.m., then again from 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Food and drink | In the new North Concourse, you’ll find a new Aletitude for local brews, Costa Coffee for a caffeine kick, and a Jimmy John’s and Tropical Smoothie Cafe for some pre-flight fuel.
Flight status | While we recommend staying updated via your respective airline, you can also check the airport’s dashboard for your flight status in a pinch.
PSA: Amazon’s Black Friday Week sale is here. With temperatures continuing to drop, we’re stocking up on a few cold weather wardrobe essentials while they’re on sale. These are our top three:
🍂 This pair of ultra-soft wide leg pants are on sale for under $35. We can’t wait to wear them while running errands, lounging, and everything in between.
🍂 Score 30% off this ribbed long sleeve basic tee — perfect for layering under your favorite sweater, vest, or jacket.
🍂 Embrace cozy sophistication with this oversized cable knit sweater that’s marked down to under $28.
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.
October saw the lowest revenue generated by movie ticket sales in almost three decades — excluding 2020 for obvious reasons. With the holiday season on the horizon, and Oscar season in full swing, it’s a great time to catch a flick at the Fine Arts Theatre to help keep cinema alive.
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