As we move deeper into the winter and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season fades away, I implore you to remember the importance of supporting our local businesses during the slow season. These small enterprises are the lifeblood of our communities and the backbone of our economy. Without them, our towns and cities would lack the unique character and charm that make them so special. Seek out the small, independently owned businesses in your area and give them your patronage. Together, we can keep our communities strong and vibrant, even in the midst of the winter doldrums.

? Katrina Morgan, Editor

• In the small town of Black Mountain, Mayor Mike Sobol headed back to the office he held from 2013 to 2017. He has high hopes of “getting things done.” With his many plans for the future, he wants to build a cohesive, caring community.
• People using state government computers and mobile phones will soon lose access to TikTok and WeChat. Gov. Roy Cooper issued an executive order Thursday prohibiting use of those applications on state-issued devices.
• Two local historic landmarks drift back 77 years for a time travel film.

• The inaugural Teachers of Excellence Awards Program has been announced with pride by the Rotary Club of Asheville. The awards luncheon will take place at Trinity Episcopal Church on January 26 at noon. A $2,000 cash prize will be distributed to five teachers. Each of the teachers listed below has received recognition for their exceptional dedication to both their pupils and their profession: Ira B. Jones Elementary student Susanna Cerrato, Avery’s Creek Elementary student Robin Floyd, Weaverville Primary School student Heather Gast, Hominy Valley Elementary student Aimee Gaston, and Fairview Elementary student Jennifer Gortney.
• The expanded and new location of Old Europe Pastries is located at 18 Broadway St. A beautiful selection of cakes, pastries, cookies, and coffee beverages are available at the new location. Everyday hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and till 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
• ICYMI, the Asheville City Council unanimously decided to establish an impartial review committee to investigate the water disruptions we had over the holidays. The first update from the new nine-member board is scheduled for February, and a final report and presentation are scheduled for mid-May.
• At its regularly scheduled meeting on January 5, Hendersonville City Council considered many modifications to the city’s noise and light pollution ordinances. Both conversations centered on acceptable levels and enforcement. City council overwhelmingly approved the first of two readings of a new noise ordinance that expands and clarifies the previous rule, which some people felt was unclear, when it was first brought up at its regularly scheduled meeting on November 3. The new legislation details times when laws are tighter as well as the decibel levels that are considered to be too loud at particular times and places.
• All enforcement of downtown parking meters has been suspended until the new prices take effect on March 1—the anticipated opening date of the parking deck—following Hendersonville City Council’s unanimous approval of a budget amendment that altered parking fees and permits. As of January 6, meters are no longer being watched, although other parking rules are still in place.

• Cinemark Part-Time Assistant Manager – Assist in the overall operation of the theatre and ensure policies and procedures are being followed and operational standards are achieved.
• Crumbl Crew – Early Morning Baker – Strong communication, time and resource management, along with planning skills. Attention to details, basic math and computer skills. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Mountain Inspiration Apparel Co – Retail Associate – Bring your dog to work with you!! Seeking a passionate outdoor enthusiast to work in our retail stores. In combination with a love for the outdoors, knowledge and desire to create and spread sustainability and educate the public on sustainability in the textile industry are a must.
• Physical Therapy Technician – SEPT Physical Therapy – Hendersonville NC – The position involves all aspects of a physical therapy tech-tasks requested by supervising Physical Therapist or PTA in assisting with patient care and clean up of treatment areas as well as cross training and assisting front desk reception – answering phones, scheduling, collecting copays, filing, checking insurance benefits etc when help needed.
• Deputy or Director of Museum Operations – Asheville Museum of Science – AMOS is seeking a dynamic Director of Museum Operations who will be directly responsible for the overall guest experience at the Museum. This position will provide leadership and oversight through hands-on management of the Museum operation departments, which include Visitor and Member Experiences, Exhibits, Museum Shop, Admissions, and Cleaning/ Security.

• Biltmore Gardens Railways – Wonders of the World – Included with Admission. One of the latest fun-for-all ages botanical model train display. Daily at the Biltmore Estate ?
• Hendersonville Theatre announces 2023 season Tickets go are on sale until January 31 ?
• MakerSpace: Third Thursday with Artist Aspen Johnston – 5:00pm to 8:00pm on January 19th at the Asheville Art Museum “Drop into our studio to experiment freely and collaborate using different materials, tools, and techniques” ?
• Sunday Live : Steve Lapointe – from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at the Asheville Art Museum on January 22nd. “Steve Lapointe’s nine years of classical piano as a youth grounded him in music theory” ?
• Saturday STEAM Sessions from 9:00am to 10:00am for hands-on science activities led by an AMOS STEAM Educator at the Asheville Museum of Science ??‍?
• Get your calendars—and some flexible clothes—ready for this one, people. As part of the tenth annual Asheville Restaurant Week, which runs from January 17–23, everything from ramen and dry-aged steak to $10 pancake sandwiches is on the menu

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