Asheville FM News Hour

Genres: News, Talk

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The Asheville FM News Hour features news and interviews on issues affecting people in Asheville and WNC. We seek to highlight the voices of the community of Asheville and share relevant stories from across the state.

Tune in Wednesdays at 11 a.m. for lively discussions with newsmakers, non-profits, local artists and everyday folks.

The AFM news team includes: Patricia Furnish, Mark West, Dick Needleman, Michele Scheve, Emily Davis, KP Whaley, and a rotating cast of contributors. You can join the news team also as a community journalist. Email [email protected] to get involved.

To listen to past interviews and discussions from The Asheville FM News Hour, check out The Asheville FM News Hour podcast page by clicking here.

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Concert Calendar 12/1-12/9

December 1st, 2025

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Monday, December 1st

Mashup Monday @ One World Brewing West

A Hawaiian Christmas with CarolinAloha featuring Billy Cardine @ Wortham Center

UNCA XTET @ Little Jumbo

Ryan Davis & The Roadhouse Band with Arbor Labor Union @ Ayurprana Listening Room

Tuesday, December 2nd

Tuesday Night Funk Jam @ Asheville Music Hall

Tuesday Residency W/ Songs From The Road Band @ One World Brewing West

Hannah Juanita w/ Resonant Rogues @ The Grey Eagle

All Them Witches, King Buffalo @ The Orange Peel

THE AVAS CONTINUUM @ Little Jumbo

Wednesday, December 3rd

Old-Time Jam @ Jack of The Wood

Latin Night @ One World Brewing West

Disclaimer Stand-Up Lounge Comedy Open Mic @ Asheville Music Hall

Bonnie “Prince” Billy with Matt Kivel @ The Grey Eagle

Strictly Liquid @ The One Stop

C.Shreve the Professor w/Mike Martinez, DJ Jet, Mister Burns, Juan Holladay @ Pulp

Momma Molasses, Kelsey Rae Copeland & Alma Russ @ The Double Crown

Cynthia McDermott @ Highland Brewing

Thursday, December 4th

Bluegrass Jam @ Jack of The Wood

Ben McLaughlin & the Mystic Marauders @ The One Stop

Oscar Lindsey / James Eichman / i26connector / Tanner York @ Static Age Records

Asheville Beer Choir @ Archetype Brewing

Red Die Number Nine, Junkpunk, The Half That Matters @ 27 Club

Russ Wilson & The Kings of Jazz @ The Crow & Quill

Friday, December 5th

Southern Culture on the Skids @ The Grey Eagle

Airshow @ The One Stop

TopHouse @ Asheville Music Hall

Billingsley @ One World Brewing west

A.G. Hammond & Brooks Butler @ One World Brewing downtown

Singers of Songs w/Johnny Elkins, Tojo Harnish & Jackie Kelsh @ Fleetwood’s

OK Go w/L.A. Exes @ The Orange Peel

Cowboy Judy @ Jack of the Wood

Andy & Graham Ferrell @ Ginger’s Revenge

I Still Believe In Christmas: An Evening With Anne Wilson @ Harrah’s Cherokee Center

Sirius B. @ The Crow & Quill

ENTHEOS w/ Fallujah, The Zenith Passage & Tracheotomy @ Eulogy

Brody Hunt & The Handfulls @ Eda’s Hide-a-way

Noah Proudfoot with Samara Jade @ AyurPrana Listening Room

Saturday, December 6th

Jd Mcpherson – Socks: A Rock N Roll Christmas Tour @ The Grey Eagle

SUSTO STRINGBAND with Very Special Guests Oliver Hazard @ Asheville Music Hall

East Coast Dirt @ The One Stop

R&B Dance Party w/ Peggy Ratusz & Daddy LongLegs Dance Band @ One World Brewing west

Reeko, My Gal Monday & Player VS Player @ Fleetwood’s

Formless / Abito Nero / Kangarot @ Static Age Records

Zakk Sabbath, Bonfire, Dark Chapel @ The Orange Peel

Ashley Heath & Her Heathens @ Jack of the Wood

Fault Reset, Divinicide, As They Perish, Backroads @ 27 Club

Clouds of Delusion @ Highland Brewing

Meschiya Lake & The Moodswingers @ The Crow & Quill

What’s in the Box? @ Story Parlor

Drrtywulvz and Vinja @ Eulogy

Jake Dwyer Band @ Eda’s Hide-a-way

Live Music for Silent Films by Min Xiao-Fen & River Guerguerian @ AyurPrana Listening Room

Sunday, December 7th

Robert Lester Folsom @ The Grey Eagle

Suns of Stars Sunday Residency @ One World Brewing west

Jazz Jam @ Ginger’s Revenge

Butts & Boots Line Dancing @ Banks Ave.

Quinn Sternberg’s Mind Beach @ Highland Brewing

Mini Trees w/ Pink Beds @ Eulogy

Monday, December 8th

Mashup Monday @ One World Brewing West

The Hot Seat @ Static Age Loft

Bill Kirchen’s Honky Tonk Holiday Show @ The Grey Eagle

Kontusion / All Hell / Soured @ Static Age Records

PORTUGAL. THE MAN, La Luz @ The Orange Peel

Rodriguez, Bullock, Sternberg & Sergel @ Little Jumbo

Tuesday, December 9th

Tuesday Night Funk Jam @ Asheville Music Hall

An Evening With Mike Cooley (of Drive-By Truckers) @ The Grey Eagle

Sanders, Boyd, Page & Hall @ Little Jumbo

TRSH w/ Camping in Alaska, Kerosene Heights & Thoughts on Bowling @ Eulogy

In Theatres:

Wortham Center for the Arts presents: The Nutcracker and the Mouse King 12/5 & 12/6

Asheville Community Theater Presents: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – 12/5 – 12/21
Concert Calendar 11/24-12/2

November 24th, 2025

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Monday, November 24th

Ariel Pink @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

Mashup Mondays @ One World Brewing West

Sun Organ / Tombstone Poetry / Sean Hamilton + Jonas van den Bossche Duo / Okapi @ Static Age Records

Chris Bullock + Justin Stanton Quartet @ Little Jumbo

The Backyard Revival @ 5 Walnut

Tuesday, November 25th

Early Tuesday Jam @ The One Stop

Clouds of Delusion @ One World Brewing West

Next Failure / Night Beers / Resthome @ Fleetwood’s

Bl_ank / Brett Kent & Clay White Drone Duo / LA Doctors / Infinitikiss @ Static Age Records

The Will Boyd Project @ Little Jumbo

The John Henry’s @ 5 Walnut

Wednesday, November 26th

All Aboard AVL: The Last Waltz @ The Grey Eagle Music Hall

Coyote Rodeo @ The One Stop

Latin Night Wednesday @ One World Brewing West

PSK @ Fleetwood’s

Old Time Jam @ Jack of the Wood

Western Wednesdays: Hearts Gone South @ The Double Crown

Matt, Coop, and Zach’s Annual Night Before Thanksgiving Jam @ Taproom at Highland Brewing Company

Bam-a-Lam @ 5 Walnut

Healyside Trio @ Eulogy

Country Line Dance w/ Kristey @ Eda’s Hideaway

Thursday, November 27th

Thanksgiving Gospel Night w/ The Highway QCs @ The Double Crown

Butts & Boots Line Dancing @ Banks Ave

Friday, November 28th

David Wilcoz Annual Thanksgiving Homecoming Concert @ The Grey Eagle Music Hall

The Artimus Pyle Band @ Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Gill Francis @ The One Stop (early)

Allegheny Mountain Boys (Night 1) @ The One Stop (late)

Fruit w/ Buddhagraph Spaceship @ Asheville Music Hall

Sipe, Moore, & Hill @ One World Brewing West

Wilson Morris @ One World Brewing Downtown

77 Lies / Tiny TVs / Holley 750 @ Fleetwood’s

Rock n Roll Rewind @ The Orange Peel

Gold Rose @ Jack of the Wood

Tuck It Up Buttercup @ Banks Avenue

The JackTown Ramblers @ The Taproom at Highland Brewing Company

Sun Goblin @ The Meadow at Highland Brewing Company

Black Sea Beats Society @ Crow and Quill

DJ Lil Meow Meow’s Dance Floor Rapture @ Eulogy

Lyric @ High Gravity, Sierra Nevada Brewing

15th Annual Byrds of a Feather Gram Parsons/Gene Clark Tribute @ Eda’s Hideaway

Saturday, November 29th

The Inaugural Asheville Juke Joint Homecoming Party @ Grey Eagle Music Hall

Riyen Roots @ The One Stop (early)

Allegheny Mountain Boys (Night 2) @ The One Stop (late)

D’Angelo Tribute ft. Asheville’s Finest @ Asheville Music Hall

Josh Daniel & Friends – The Last Waltz Experience @ One World Brewing West

Del Rio Trio @ One World Brewing Downtown

Rumors ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute @ The Orange Peel

Nobody’s Darling String Band @ Jack of the Wood (afternoon)

All Crawfish go to Heaven @ Jack of the Wood (evening)

Mad Mike @ The Lazy Diamond

The Explorers Club @ The Taproom at Highland Brewing Company

Meschiya Lake & the Moodswinger @ The Crow & Quill

Fancy & The Gentlemen @ Eda’s Hideaway

Team Awesome @ High Gravity Room at Sierra Nevada Brewing

Emo Night Brooklyn @ Eulogy

Sunday, November 30th

Amythyst Kiah @ The Grey Eagle Music Hall

Suns of Stars Sunday Residency @ One World Brewing West (afternoon)

One Love Sundays w/ Tuff Stuff @ One World Brewing West (evening)

The Bluegrass Brunch Boys @ Jack of the Wood (early afternoon)

Traditional Irish Music Session @ Jack of the Wood (late afternoon/evening)

Jazz Jam Sundays @ Ginger’s Revenge Riverside Tasting Room

Butts & Boots Line Dancing @ Banks Ave

THB – Turn Up for Your City @ Sly Grog Lounge

The Moon & You @ The Taproom at Highland Brewing Company

The Secret B-Sides @ High Gravity Room at Sierra Nevada Brewing

Monday, December 1st

A Hawaiian Christmas w/ CarolinAloha ft. Billy Cardine @ Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

Mashup Mondays @ One World Brewing West

UNCA XTET @ Little Jumbo

Ryan Davis & The Roadhouse Band w/ Arbor Labor Union @ AyurPrana Listening Room

Tuesday, December 2nd

Hannah Juanita w/ Resonant Rogues @ The Grey Eagle Music Hall

Songs from the Road Band @ One World Brewing West

All Them Witches w/ King Buffalo @ The Orange Peel

The AVAS Continuum @ Little Jumbo
Michelle Moog interview plus Progressive music featuring various Moog instruments!

November 10th, 2025

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Professor Ted welcomes Moogseum and Bob Moog Foundation executive director, and daughter of the late Bob Moog, on Thursday, November 13th from 1-3 PM. Hear his discussion with Michelle Moog-Kousa about the rare Minimoog Prototype Exhibit at the Moogseum in downtown Asheville this weekend, November 14-16, in conjunction with the Museum of Music Technology. These prototypes were created in 1969-1971, and tell the fascinating story of the evolution of one of the most important synths ever invented. More info here: Moogseum

More Posts for Show: Closer to the Edge
Queer Calendar For Week of 9/18

September 17th, 2025
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It’s Thursday – and you can Join Jerri & Christopher every Thursday @6pm for country music, line dancing, and beginner 2 step! At Banks Ave Bar for Butts and Boots every Thursday* No Partner needed Also on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month

Thursday, September 18th from 7-10pm (and every 3rd Thursday) DJ Tamagotchi hosts Haus of Kiki, a new monthly queer social at Potential New Boyfriend, here in West Asheville.

Friday, September 19 at 6 – 9 pm Queer Networking: A Special Pride Edition at The Radical Rooftop. Join us for a vibrant evening of queer business entworking at the stunning rooftop bar of the Radical Hotel. Hosted by WNC Queer Professionals and sponsored by Blue Ridge Pride and Bill Casey with The Blood Connection. Connect with like-minded professionals, build meaningful relationships, and expand your network in a welcoming and inclusive space. Gain fresh perspectives, exchange ideas, and discover opportunities for collaboration and growth. Click here to learn more.

Friday, September 19 at 8 pm Drag Karaoke – Divine’s Karaoke Kiki! At Dalton Distillery. DIVINE’s Karaoke Kiki! Is a singing with a twist, hosted by a comedy drag queen. Enjoy the interaction-packed show as she toasts and roasts the singers.

This SATURDAY,September 20th, 8-10pm, check out “Date my Queer Friend” event at Daytrip! 5 wingpeople present a queer pal who has been lookin’ for love in allllll the wrong places. PowerPoint presentation-style pitching, followed by a cheeky mixer. Everyone is welcome to come enjoy the first installment of this interactive dating show! 💛Free! Just show up

Saturday, September 20 at 1 pm Hendersonville Pride presents Buck Wild at Honeysuckle Holler, a bar with country dancing. Event starts at 1 pm. Doors at 12 pm. Event is for ages 21 and over. Standard admission is $10 presale, and $15 at the door. Get tickets and information here.

Saturday, September 20 at 8 pm Queer Line Dancing at Hi-Wire Brewing (Knowxville). We will be boogying to Shania Twain, Bad Bunny, Cowboy Carter, Chappell Roan, etc! Bring your boot-scootin’ shoes – and come make friends! Tickets are $10. Click here for more information.

Recurring every Sunday of the month and third Saturday of every month PFLAG Connect Groups. Monthly connect groups are a more intimate way to connect with the parents, families, and allies of LGBTQIA+ folks. Registration is required – RSVP via the link. First Sunday of every month at 10 am at Firestorm Books. Third Saturday of every month at 10 am at EMOTE.

Ongoing until September 21: Our Living Record – Highlighting LGBTQ+ Resilience in the Face of Erasure. The exhibit features artwork from Southern LGBTQ+ community members and allies who aim to preserve queer memory. In full, the exhibition will include photography, sculpture, protection, ephemera and participatory archival interactive installations. Each piece will ultimately work to showcase the broader story of LGBTQ+ resilience, resistance, and joy. Beginning July 10 through September 1, the exhibition will be live at the Revolve Gallery in Asheville. Click here for more information.

Looking ahead to next week

Saturday, September 27 Blue Ridge Pride Festival 2025 located at Pack Square Park in Asheville. Keep up with updates by clicking here.

Saturday, September 27 at 10 pm Beer City Bears Dance at OHenry’s, a kiki for beras, cubs, chubs, and their admirers – a fundraiser event. Click here for more information.

Saturday, September 27 at 7:30 pm Pride Open Mic Night at Shakedown Lounge in Hendersonville, NC. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just looking to share your voice, our Open Mic Night is the perfect place to showcase your talent! Come enjoy a night filled with music, poetry, comedy, and more. Bring your friends, your talent, and your enthusiasm.

Saturday, September 27 at 8 pm Miss Vee’s Freakshow at Devil’s Foot (131 Sweeten Creek Rd). This September’s special is Neon Fetish: a Kinky Burlesque and Variety Show featuring Von Infinity. Sound bath at 8 pm. Show at 9 pm. Show is ages for 21 and up. Don’t forget to bring cash tips! The DJ will be Spirit Animal and burlesque by Medusa, Sweetie, November Rain, and Mandi Frufru. Click here to view event details.

Sunday, September 28 at 1:30 pm Just announced: The Orange Peel is excited to host the official Blue Ridge Pride Closing Party with Nicole Paige Brooks of RuPaul’s Drag Race! Tea Dance and Drag Show + music by DJ @danym3d3. Featuring The Legendary House of Brooks with Beulah Land, Indica Gemini, Josie Glamoure, Leo Scott, and the newly crowned Mx. Blue Ridge Pride. Doors at 1:30 pm. Show at 2 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. $30 for meet and greet.

Sunday, September 28 at 4 pm Beer City Bears Social @Shakeys – A kiki for bears, cubs, chubs, and their admirers. Attention furry mens! A fundraiser event!

Friday, October 3 at 6:30 pm Blue Ridge Drag Bingo at the Hilltop Event Center (21 Restaurant Ct, 28805). It’s time to daub, dance, and donate with hilarious drag queens at Blue Ridge Bingo, the Asheville Drag Bingo show. Asheville’s most whimsical way to give back. Tickets start at $20 and include bingo cards. This event is for ages 21 and up. Click here for more information.

Saturday, October 4 at 6 pm LGBTQ Silent Disco hosted at the WagWorld Pub and Event Center in Fletcher, NC. LGBTQ Silent Disco – a night to remember! Tickets are $25 (includes headset) – advanced purchase only. Non-refundable. Three different music channels. Full bar/cash bar – grab a drink, strike a pose, and hydrate responsibly. Not much of a dance? That’s okay! Catch up with friends, make new ones, soak in the patio vibes and fresh air.

Friday, October 10 at 5:30 pm Drag Queen One WoMAN Cabaret Show – I Am What I Am, a Fundraiser located at New Belgium Brewing. Show rating is ages 21+. Cash bar! “I Am What I Am” offers audiences the chance to witness a fusion of live singing, enchanting narrative, and a truly unique exploration of Divine’s origin story. With a perfect blend of raw emotion, heartwarming moments, and dazzling entertainment, the show promises an unforgettable journey. Click here to buy tickets and for more information.

Saturday, October 18 at 8 pm Miss Vee’s Freakshow at Devil’s Foot (131 Sweeten Creek Rd). Click here to stay tuned.

Saturday, October 18 11 am and 1 pm Katarina’s Saturday Cabaret Fundraiser at Banks Ave Bar. The stage is set for glamour, music, and Southern flavor as Katarina’s Saturday Cabaret Drag Brunch returns to Banks Ave Bar on Saturday, October 18 with two dazzling shows at 11 am and 1 pm. This vibrant event, produced by Bearded Lady Productions (a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit), will raise funds for Cornbread and Roses, a local grassroots organization. Guests can expect standout performances, crowd interaction, and delicious biscuit-forward brunch fare – all while contributing to a good cause. Click here for more information.

Sunday, October 19 at 12:30 pm Served by Sev Drag Brunch at The Mule/Devil’s Foot (131 Sweeten Creek Rd). Doors at 12 pm. Show at 1 pm. $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Served by Sev Drag Brunch once a month, all year long! Sev’s show brings Asheville talent to the stage for an afternoon of clapping, snapping and jaw-dropping performances. Brunch food truck, build your own blood and mimosa bar, and more! Click here for more information.

Monday, October 20 at 4 pm 2025 LGBTQIA Mental Health Resource Fair at the Love and Respect Community for Recovery and Wellness (350 Chadwick Ave, Suite 300. Hendersonville, NC). Join us for a day in the cool October breeze during Mental Health Awareness Week. Come together with your community to celebrate diversity, support mental wellness, and connect with affirming resources in a safe, welcoming space. What to expect: Cactus Rainbow Food Truck, music, LGBTQ Mental Health Providers on site, free mental health infosessions, raffle prizes. Sponsored by Hendersonville Pride and PFLAG.

Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 pm Pride Open Mic Night at Shakedown Lounge in Hendersonville, NC. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just looking to share your voice, our Open Mic Night is the perfect place to showcase your talent! Come enjoy a night filled with music, poetry, comedy, and more. Bring your friends, your talent, and your enthusiasm.

Friday, October 31 at 7 pm LGBTQIA2S+ Music Bingo Halloween Party at Southern Appalachian Brewery! Costume contest, food truck, music bingo, beer and wine. Event hosted by Hendersonville Pride.

Sunday, November 2 at 1 pm Asheville Drag Brunch at New Belgium Brewing. Show rating: all ages. Cash bar (wine and beer). Join Asheville Drag Brunch for a community give-back free drag show at New Belgium Brewing in Asheville. Tickets are FREE but required. All proceeds will benefit a local non-profit organization. Suggested donation $5 to $10. Click here for information and tickets.

Friday, November 14 at 6:30 pm Asheville Drag Bingo at the Hilltop Event Center. Show rating is 21+. It’s time to daub, dance, and donate with a hilarious queen at Blue Ridge Bingo, the Asheville Drag Bingo Show. Asheville’s mots whimsical way to give back! The first ball drops at 7 pm, the first Friday of the month at the Hilltop Events Center. Tickets start at $20, which includes bingo cards, and are available at BeardedLadyProductions.org. Expect six rounds of spellbinding bingo, prizes, and upbeat tunes. Attendees are encouraged to dress to impress based on each month’s theme! Click here for more information.

Saturday, November 15 at 7 pm The Brunch of Oz at Banks Ave Bar. All ages are invited. Full bar. Table sharing seating tickets at www.AshevilleDragBrunch.com. “There’s no place like home…” Because home is where our community shines the brightest.

Friday, November 21 at 7 pm Asheville Drag Dinner: Wizard of Oz Themed Fundraiser at Highland Brewing Event Center. Show rating is for all ages. Cash bar includes wine and beer. Tickets are non-refundable. Click here for more information.

December 1st through December 13th from 9 AM to 6 PM at Revolve Gallery on Riverside Drive, this year for World AIDS Day, Western North Carolina AIDS Project (WNCAP), the National AIDS Memorial, Campaign for Southern Equality, and Revolve Gallery are partnering together to bring 6 panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt to Asheville as part of the Community Display Program.The exhibit, “A Tapestry of Love: Echoes of Loss, Voices of Hope,” will be on display The display is free to the public, with any donations received supporting the mission and work of Western North Carolina AIDS Project.

Thursday, December 4 at 7 pm Make the Yuletide Gay at Grey Eagle Music Hall. It’s your newest holiday tradition! Don your gay apparel and cozy up next to three award-winning songwriters for a night of holiday classics, original music, storytelling 2025 International Folk Music Artist of the Year aware Crys Matthews is joined by genre-defying artist/activist Heather Mae and shame-slaying singer-songwriter drag queen Flamy Grant for a winter show like no other. We’re making merry and celebrating the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community in a time when so many are trying to silence our voices. Click here for more information.

Sunday, December 7 Asheville Drag Brunch Fundraiser at the Ella Event Venue at the Hideaway (49 Broadway Street). Show rating is all ages. Cash bar includes wine and beer. Tickets are non-refundable. There are different ticket levels, a handful which are only for ages 21+. Click here for more information.

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MOAC’s Resist Dance

April 19th, 2025

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MOAC (Musicians Organizing Activist Committee) hosted the first, of what they hope to be many, Resist Dance! KP Whaley sat down with Alan and AG of the organization to learn more.

With backgrounds in civil rights law, activism, constitutional law, and music, the founders of new coalition MOAC began the project because they wanted to use music to bring attention to what they saw as an obvious trampling of civil rights. The government is “going after” a lot of vulnerable groups and MOAC wants to involve these groups in resisting “a lot of repeat history going on.” They will use the power of music to protect the constitution and bill of rights. Alan sees MOAC following in the civil discourse of Bob Dylan, John Lennon, and Joan Baez. He wants to inspire musicians to not be afraid.

AG shared MOAC’s mission: MOAC exists to utilize music to better our communities. MOAC raises awareness about guaranteed freedoms. MOAC inspires resistance against harm to all humans. MOAC lifts up those whose voices have been silenced.

One World West hosts the first Resist Dance with three bands, two speakers, and numerous tables of activists this Saturday. MOAC hopes to throw more Resist Dances all over town to use music to bring people together. If you are a venue interested in hosting a Resist Dance, or you just want to learn more about the organization, visit moac-avl.org. And be sure to visit One World West on Saturday night!

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2025 Fall Fund Drive!

March 27th, 2025

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Even though the Drive is over, you can still donate! Together we can grow and strengthen community radio and keep Asheville thriving! The only way that Asheville FM can broadcast independent, community radio is with the help of contributing listeners LIKE YOU! We are a volunteer-driven organization, and contributions go directly to cover our expenses so that we can continue to bring you what you want to hear.

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My #1 story from 2021 to 2025 is expanding Medicaid eligibility in North Carolina

March 12th, 2025

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RALEIGH, NC – March 4, 2025 – More than one year ago, on December 1, 2023, North Carolina officially became the 40^th state to expand Medicaid, the federal program for health insurance for low-resource individuals. A state Medicaid expansion (ME) bill was passed by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Roy Cooper in March_.ME was in the Affordable Care Act of 2010 and left to each state to decide in a subsequent Supreme Court ruling. ME increases health care access to eligible North Carolinians ages 19-64 and their families by relaxing the program’s strict eligibility requirements.

The latest update of the NC Medicaid Expansion Enrollment Dashboard was on March 4^th. There have been almost 640 thousand people in North Carolina who have been enrolled since the law took effect including more than 15.5 thousand residents of Buncombe County. It was estimated that 600 thousand North Carolinians were eligible for ME, with 15.5 thousand from Buncombe County. The state had predicted that it would take 2 years (24 months) to achieve their enrollment. After only 15 months of accepting applications, the state and Buncombe County have already exceeded their estimates to enrolling eligible persons.

North Carolina has been thrust into the national spotlight through the passing and implementation of Medicaid expansion. Its success was due to the strong grassroots support by many organizations and the efforts of Governor Cooper and both houses of the General Assembly.

It has been estimated that expanding Medicaid will bring the state 8 billion federal dollars annually, almost 2 billion dollars to support behavioral health, public safety, and rural health care, and 2 billion dollars for starting the program in 2023.

In an interview with North Carolina Health News, Governor Cooper, who spearheaded expanding Medicaid in North Carolina, said, “When I ran for governor, one of my top priorities was creating a North Carolina where people were healthier and could get the care that they need to have lives of purpose and abundance.” He added, “We knew that Medicaid expansion was an important way of making that happen, because there were a lot of hardworking people in North Carolina who were making too much money to qualify for Medicaid, but not enough money to qualify for subsidies under the Affordable Care Act.”

There are many ways to apply for NC Medicaid for eligible persons. Those who have not yet applied should visit Medicaid.nc.gov to see if they qualify. Buncombe County residents can apply for Medicaid online and at any time at ePASS.NC.gov. Applications can be done in-person at the HHS Building on 40 Coxe Avenue, by calling 828-250-5500, or by mail.

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

More Posts for Show: Asheville FM News Hour
The weekly COVID-19, flu & RSV update: The respiratory virus surge is over until next fall

March 12th, 2025
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ASHEVILLE, NC – March 12, 2025 – The CDC’s COVID Dashboard for the week ending on March 1^st shows:

Less than 2% of the deaths in North Carolina were due to COVID, the 2^nd lowest level of 6 groups.

Emergency department visits for COVID-19 are minimal in North Carolina, representing 1% of all visits, a moderate decrease since last week.

Wastewater monitoring can be used to provide early warning for COVID, flu and RSV outbreaks. For the week ending on March 1^st, the COVID-19 wastewater viral activity level for the state is moderate. The Buncombe & Henderson counties COVID wastewater data for the week ending on February 26^th shows:

The number of viral gene copies in each water sample is at a yellow level representing the 3^rd highest level of 5 groups, currently between the 40^th and 60^th percentile relative to the past peak level measured at the same site.

The 15-day rate of change of the number of viral gene copies in each water sample has increased from the previous week, at 10% to 99%, the 2^nd highest level of 3 groups for a positive rate of change.

During the week ending on March 1^st, viral activity levels in the North Carolina wastewater were moderate for influenza A and very low for RSV, and viral activity levels in the Buncombe County wastewater were moderate for influenza A, and low for RSV.

The CDC’s weekly flu surveillance report for the week ending on February 22^nd (16 days ago) indicates that levels are either high or very high in 40 of 47 continental states (with Vermont not reporting). The Mountain West and northern plains states have moderate levels. North Carolina is at a high level.

The CDC reports that the weekly percent of positive tests for RSV for the week ending on March 1^st is below 5% for Region 4 (which are the states in the southeast U.S. including North Carolina).

The weekly North Carolina Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard for the week ending on March 1^st shows:

Less than 12% of all emergency room patients had symptoms of a respiratory viral illness, about a 20% decrease from last week.

Influenza-like symptoms represented about 40% of these patients

There were about 2 thousand hospital admissions from the emergency department in North Carolina for people who had a diagnosis, or symptoms, of respiratory viral infection, a 7% decrease since last week. More patients were admitted with the flu than any other respiratory disease.

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

More Posts for Show: Asheville FM News Hour
Precision medicine breakthrough: A vaccine for cancer

February 27th, 2025

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UNITED STATES – February 19, 2025 – A vaccine for pancreatic cancer! What a breakthrough for the treatment one of the most devastating cancers where fewer than 13% of people live more than five years after diagnosis. The cancer is very advanced by the time someone has any symptoms. It has spread much earlier than most cancers by the time the diagnosis is made. There are very few effective treatments. Surgery is indicated only about 20% of the time due to the quick spread of this cancer. There is no routine screening test for cancer of the pancreas.

In a recent article published in Nature, researchers from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City performed a phase 1 trial on 16 patients with pancreatic cancer that was treatable with surgery. A novel approach to treatment included the standard regimen of surgery, chemotherapy and an immunotherapy drug with the addition of a personalized mRNA vaccine based on the genetic make-up specific to the person’s tumor. Patients were followed for an average of 4 years. One-half of the patients had a longer recurrence-free survival time compared to patients who did not respond. These responders produced specialized white blood cells to fight the cancer. The median increase in survival time was more than 1 year. The study showed that the addition of the vaccine was safe and effective.

The vaccine teaches the body’s immune system to produce large numbers of specialized white blood cells to recognize, destroy and prevent the spread of cancer cells. These ‘killer’ white blood cells were not present before administration of the vaccine and were found to be present for up to 3 years after vaccination.

Precision medicine is a new non-traditional health care approach that uses a person’s unique genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors for a personalized prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. It is also known as “personalized medicine”. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration says that “the goal of precision medicine is to target the right treatments to the right patients at the right time.” Knowing a tumor’s genetic make-up may allow physicians to choose specific treatments that may extend a person’s life, improve their chances of survival and reduce the risk of side-effects from treatment.

The results of this study are encouraging, although it is an early trial. Larger trials are planned. Similar vaccines are being tested for treating people with melanoma, a deadly skin cancer, and the increasingly prevalent colorectal cancer.

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

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The weekly COVID-19, flu & RSV update: Flu is still around while RSV is not

February 27th, 2025
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ASHEVILLE, NC – February 26, 2025 – The CDC’s COVID Dashboard for the week ending on February 15^th shows:

Less than 2% of the deaths in North Carolina were due to COVID, the 2^nd lowest level of 6 groups, unchanged from last week.

Emergency department visits for COVID-19 are minimal in North Carolina, representing a little more than 1% of all visits, a moderate decrease since last week.

Wastewater monitoring can be used to provide early warning for COVID, flu and RSV outbreaks. For the week ending on February 15^th, the COVID-19 wastewater viral activity level for the state is high. The Buncombe & Henderson counties COVID wastewater data for the week ending on February 12^th shows:

The number of viral gene copies in each water sample is at an orange level representing the 4^th highest level of 5 groups, currently between the 60^th and 80^th percentile relative to the past peak level measured at the same site.

The 15-day rate of change of the number of viral gene copies in each water sample has decreased from the previous week, at -99% to -10%, the largest level of 2 groups for a negative rate of change.

During the week ending on February 15^th, viral activity levels in the North Carolina wastewater were high for influenza A and low for RSV, and viral activity levels in the Buncombe County wastewater were moderate for influenza A, and very low for RSV.

The CDC’s weekly flu surveillance report for the week ending on February 15^th indicates that levels are either high or very high in 42 of 47 continental states (with Vermont not reporting). The Mountain West region has moderate levels. North Carolina is at a very high level.

The CDC reports that the weekly percent of positive tests for RSV for the week ending on February 15^th is below 5% for Region 4 (which are the states in the southeast U.S. including North Carolina). It had peaked to more than 15% around Christmas.

The weekly North Carolina Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard for the week ending on February 15^th shows:

17% of all emergency room patients had symptoms of a respiratory viral illness, a 20% decrease from last week.

Influenza-like symptoms represented more than one-half of these patients

There were more than 25 hundred hospital admissions from the emergency department in North Carolina for people who had a diagnosis, or symptoms, of respiratory viral infection, a 24% decrease since last week. More patients were admitted with the flu than other respiratory disease.

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

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Asheville’s ICE Protest: Audio and Photos

February 21st, 2025

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By: Kevin Eddings

For the past few years, the Trump Administration has targeted marginalized communities with comments on the legitimacy of their citizenship. Prominent examples are former President Obama and former Vice President Harris. Since starting his second term in January, Trump and his administration have tried to undo birthright citizenship, and they have accused DEI legislation for not being in the country’s best interest.

Asheville FM News Hour correspondent, K.P. Whaley, attended a protest downtown in Pack Square, against the possible deportation of immigrants within the current Trump Administration. On the February 12th. edition of the Asheville FM News Hour, religion and community were two of the many things highlighted within the issue of immigration.

Corn, a granddaughter to two immigrant grandfathers, was one of the many protesters in Pack Square expressing why this protest is important. “I am making sure we are fighting for a better America as a whole,” Corn said. “This isn’t only for Latinos. This is for everybody. Our country needs help.”

Over 300 people showed up for the protest, from all walks of life. Corn shared that it is very important to see the intersection of people who come to support. “It’s important because it is what makes up this country. We got to fight for our country. We gotta make sure we get what we need. We are all humans first, we are not robots or just things you can throw to the side.”

When asked what she would say to critics who say that protests are fruitless, Corn had this to say.

“This is how this country was built,” Corn said. “[Protest] is how we always fought people.”

Corn shared what the future of these protests will look like and what people might need to know. “Hopefully we will be trying to do more protests, especially on Saturday mornings, but the thing is you don’t need a protest to protest. You can come out here any day of the week and hold up a sign that has some meaning to it and that’s enough.”

Reverend Sara Wilcox was one of the many protestors attending the rally. Wilcox is co-founder of Land of the Sky United Church of Christ, part of whose mission is to serve as a member of Faith for Justice, committed to provoking justice for black- and brown-bodied people.

“I’m here because youth were coming here today and we don’t trust the adults in the community to keep safe spaces for our kids at this point,” Wilcox said. There are many adults who feel their policies are worth jeopardizing the safety of kids, and that’s something that we are very much against. Our government fails to make new policies that make immigration accessible and possible for folks, and that’s why people end up undocumented.”

Whaley asked Wilcox how she feels about Trump and his administration using Christianity to back their agenda.

“Many of Trump’s policies are actually deeply antithetical to the ways of Christ,” Wilcox said. “It’s an interesting thing to see the Christian right get in bed with someone who’s deeply engaged in policies and politics that seem to be about getting wealthier and taking land from people. It’s harming people, it’s completely out of realm from the ways of Jesus. And it’s not uncommon, that’s how it always happens. Constantine was the first one to get in the way and co-opt the church. And so, empire always collapses the church. It’s idolatrous.”

Listen to the full interview here:

See more photos here

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Queer Calendar For Weekend 2/21

February 21st, 2025
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This Friday at 7pm join Hendersonville Pride at Hendersonville’s newest line dancing bar! Honeysuckle Holler is the only dedicated country dance bar in Western North Carolina 101 E Allen St. Suite 101, Hendersonville

This and every Saturday, drag shows starting at 11pm and midnight at O.Henrys.

Sunday February 23 at 1:30 PM Gentle Yoga for Queer Folks. This gentle yoga class is centered towards creating an affirming and inclusive space for queer individuals. Located at West Asheville Yoga on Haywood Road. Admission is free.

Wednesday February 26 from 12 to 2 pm Generation Plus Thrive Lunch and Learn. Located at the Blue Ridge Pride Center. LGBTQIA2S+ elders (55+) are invited to join us for a free lunch and learn. Amorous Gardner will be leading a workshop on Deathcare and Advanced Care Planning in the LGBTQIA2+ community. RSVP at https://www.blueridgepride.org/generation-plus#GenPlusRSVP.

LGBTQ+ Resource Centers & Community Spaces Hosted by Blue Ridge Pride, Campaign for Southern Equality, and Tranzmission.

Monday Resources can be found at Blue Ridge Pride Resource Center, 2 – 6 PM 1330 Patton Avenue, Suite A Food, baby supplies, hygiene supplies, pet food, cold weather items, apply for direct financial assistance

Tuesday resources hosted by Tranzmission Resource Center, 4 – 6 PM – Food pantry, household items, clothing closet, and application for microgrants. Email [email protected] for location

Wednesday resources hosted again by Blue Ridge Pride Resource Center, 12 – 4 PM

Thursday resources hosted by Campaign for Southern Equality Supply & Resource Center, 11 AM – 5 PM (Happens once a month, Re-opens 1/23) 20 Oak Street, Asheville (downtown). Each month: Health, hygiene and wellness supplies (including binders, menstrual products, make up); winter clothing; household items; support navigating LBTQ+ friendly resources

Friday & Saturday resources hosted again by Tranzmission Resource Center, 4 – 6 PM

Looking ahead:

Thursday February 27 at 5:30 pm Pitch, please! A speed networking event for queer professionals. Located at New Belgium Brewing on Craven St. This event is presented by WNC Queer Professionals, sponsored by Blue Ridge Pride, and hosted by Drag King Milo mawhile. This event welcomes all professionals, whether you’re a small business owner, artist, a performer, or looking for new opportunities. Admission is free, though registration is required. You can find the registration link on their Facebook event labeled Pitch, Please.-

Thursday February 27 from 6 to 8 pm Hope, Joy, and Resistance: A Gathering for LGBTQIA2S+ folks. Located at the Blue Ridge Pride Center. Join us for a space of connection, creativity, and community. Our group is designed to nurture hope, joy, and resistance in the face of daily challenges. RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdUVbWzn_B_DIGQr_CyezaA1t2Ec-4NYUV_BOepCOdfYPYLQQ/viewform

Friday, February 28th, 8-10pm Tina & Her Pony will play a full band show at Eda’s Hide-a-way 1098 New Stock Rd, Weaverville starting at 8pm for fun, for the love of live music, and for queer community!

much further ahead –

Sunday March 2nd The annual Asheville Mardi Gras parade is happening on South Slope in downtown Asheville. More details about the step off location will be announced closer to the date.

Song-O Drag Music Bingo is at The Mule at Devil’s Foot on Friday, March 7 starting at 7 pm. Enjoy silly drag-stravaganza with brews and a musical twist on bingo. Reserve your spot on EventBrite.

Hold the date for Hendersonville PFLAG Fundraiser on Sunday March 9th because they’re bringing one of our favorite queer bands, Palmyra. This will be a 5:30pm event at Continuum ART in Hendersonville

Eyes Up Here Comedy and Modelface Comedy presents AVLGBTQ, a transgender and nonbinary comedy showcase on Thursday, March 13 at 7 pm at LaZoom’s Room Bar and Gorilla. They will have a showcase of hilarious femme comedians from all over the country. Tickets on sale now on Event Brite for $12. You must be 18 or older to attend.

Thursday, March 13 from 7 to 8 pm. Daddy’s Big Gay Trivia Night at O’Henry’s in Asheville. Join us for Daddy’s Big Gayb Trivia Night. This adult-themed event promises to be a spankin’ good time with hilarious trivia questions, multiple choice, unscrambling words, and more. Whether you’re a trivia master or just looking for a night of laughter and fun, bring your friends, partner, or come solo and join a team.

Saturday, March 15 from 4 to 7 pm. Kickoff Kiki at Olde London Road English Pub located on Depot Street. Join Q-Hall for Kickoff Kiki, a night of women’s soccer, queer community, and great vibes. Mixer at 4 and game at 5. Admission is free.

Sunday, March 16 at 11 am St. Paddy’s Day Brunch, a drag show.Times for brunch are 11 am at 1 pm. The location of this event is The Hideaway located on Broadway St. This will be a fundraiser for the Tzedek Social Justice Fund, a fund which redistributes money, resources, and power to support systems change and community healing in Asheville. You can find tickets at www.AshevilleDragBrunch.com

Friday, March 21, from 8 to 9 pm. Drag Karaoke – Divine’s Karaoke Kiki at Dalton Distillery. Divine’s Karaoke Kiki is singing with a twist, hosted by a comedy drag queen. Enjoy the interaction-packed show as she toasts and roasts the singers.

Friday, March 28 through March 30 Queer Studies Conference at UNC Asheville. Queer Studies Conference attracts a diverse audience of activists, academics, community members, and artists. More information here: https://www.blueridgepride.org/events/queer-studies-conference

Saturday, June 7 from 8 to 10 pm Eyes Up Here Comedy Pride Month Edition. Modelface Comedy presents Eyes Up Here Comedy at Ginger’s Revenge. This is a night featuring all femme comedians and this month we have a special show featuring comedians from Asheville and around the South East and this month we are celebrating Pride Month. Hosted by local favorite Danny Felix. Ages 18+. Doors at 7:30 pm and show at 8 pm. Tickets are $18 and $23 for premium seating (front three rows). Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

Saturday, June 7 from 12 to 5 Hendersonville Pride Festival

Sunday, June 22. Comedian Fortune Feimster is making her way on Asheville’s Harrah’s Cherokee stage! You’ve seen her on Netflix’s Is It Cake, her own comedy specials, and in movies like FUBAR, The Standups, and the Mindy Project. Tickets are live now.

June 27 to 29 Haywood’s second annual Haywood Pride on Main. If you are interested in volunteering and making a difference, find the Google Form on Haywood Pride on Main Facebook page.

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The worst flu season in more than a decade

February 19th, 2025

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UNITED STATES – February 19, 2025 – This winter may be one of the worst flu seasons in more than 10 years. More patients are seeing doctors for symptoms of the flu since the winter of 2009-2010. The CDC classifies the flu as “high severity” this season.

As a result of the flu surge, hospitals, emergency rooms and doctor’s offices are crowded with patients sick with this illness. Many hospitals have all their beds occupied; therefore, very sick patients with the flu must remain in the emergency room until a bed is available. Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center in San Diego had to set up a temporary tent to see patients with flu symptoms because the emergency department was overwhelmed with patients. Many hospitals, including Mission Hospital in Asheville, are limiting visitors and not allowing children to visit to reduce the spread of the illness. The flu is so prevalent amongst children that, as of the first week in February, schools have had to close in at least 10 states to slow it’s spread. Most of the closures lasted only a few days.

In an interview with NBC news on February 11^th, Dr. Robert Needleman, an emergency department physician at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, said “We’ve seen a lot of sick people in general compared to previous years. It seems like they are having more respiratory issues.”

The flu is a very contagious respiratory illness that can last for a week. The influenza virus can be easily transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose and body aches. The flu may be very common, but it can lead to severe illness like difficulty breathing requiring support with breathing.

As of February 7^th, the CDC estimates that there have been 29 million cases this season including my wife and me. There have been more than 370 thousand hospitalizations and 16 thousand deaths from the flu including 68 children.

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

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The weekly COVID-19, flu & RSV update: Flu is surging while RSV is not

February 19th, 2025
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ASHEVILLE, NC – February 19, 2025 – There is a surge of respiratory viral infections, like COVID-19, influenza (the flu) and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), during the cold winter months and this is taking place around here in western North Carolina.

The CDC’s COVID Dashboard for the week ending on February 8^th shows:

Less than 2% of the deaths in North Carolina were due to COVID, the 2^nd lowest level of 6 groups, an increase since last week.

Emergency department visits for COVID-19 are minimal in North Carolina, representing a little more than 1% of all visits, stable since last week.

Wastewater monitoring can be used to provide early warning for COVID, flu and RSV outbreaks. For the week ending on February 8^th, the COVID-19 wastewater viral activity level for the state is high. The Buncombe & Henderson counties COVID wastewater data for the week ending on February 5^th shows:

The number of viral gene copies in each water sample is at a red level representing the highest level of 5 groups, currently between the 80^th and 100^th percentile relative to the past peak level measured at the same site.

The 15-day rate of change of the number of viral gene copies in each water sample has decreased from the previous week, at -9% to 0%, the smallest level of 2 groups for a negative rate of change.

During the week ending on February 8^th, viral activity levels in the North Carolina wastewater were very high for influenza A and moderate for RSV. In Buncombe County, influenza A levels are very high, and RSV levels are high.

The CDC’s weekly flu surveillance report for the week ending on February 1^st indicates that levels are either high or very high in 43 of 47 continental states (with 1 not reporting), particularly in the South, Northeast, MIdwest and the West. North Carolina is at a very high level.

The CDC reports that the weekly percent of positive tests for RSV for the week ending on February 1^st is below 5% in Region 4 (which are the states in the southeast U.S. including North Carolina). It had peaked to more than 15% around Christmas.

The weekly North Carolina Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard for the week ending on February 8^th shows:

About 20% of all emergency room patients had symptoms of a respiratory viral illness, a decrease from last week.

Influenza-like symptoms represented more than one-half of these patients

There were more than 3 thousand hospital admissions from the emergency department in North Carolina for people who had a diagnosis, or symptoms, of respiratory viral infection, an increase since last week. More patients were admitted with the flu than other respiratory disease.

The COVID pandemic has made us aware that we can reduce the spread of respiratory viruses by following specific public health measures, like vaccination, washing hands, staying home when ill, and covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. Therefore, we should take these steps to protect at-risk groups who are susceptible to getting severely ill, children younger than 5, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions like heart and lung disease, and the immunocompromised.

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

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Bird flu is in Buncombe County

February 13th, 2025

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BUNCOMBE COUNTY, NC – January 31, 2025 – According to a January 31^st email from Buncombe County government to the County Commissioners, a dead waterfowl at Lake Julian Park has tested positive for bird flu (also known as the H5N1 strain of the influenza virus and avian influenza). It is caused by the avian influenza A virus. Seven other deceased waterfowl were found at the park and test results are pending. The park will remain open. Park visitors are encouraged to avoid touching or feeding the birds and should wash their hands regularly. The Buncombe County Parks and the Public Health departments will be working with other state agencies to prevent the spread to humans. People with job-related or outside exposure to infected birds or animals are at a greater risk of getting infected.

The CDC feels that the risk of transmission of the bird flu virus from birds to the public is low. There has been no evidence of spread of this illness from person-to-person. Bird flu can be transmitted from birds to pets, like cats and dogs, and from birds to livestock, like cattle and poultry. It has been detected in wild mammals like bear.

The first U.S. case of bird flu in a human occurred in Louisiana in January this year, according to the CDC. The person was exposed to infected birds. As of January 6^th, there has been 66 confirmed cases of bird flu in humans in the U.S. None have been reported in North Carolina, as of February 4^th.

The best way to prevent getting bird flu is to avoid direct contact with wild birds, sick birds, dead birds and animals infected with the virus. Persons who must have close prolonged contact should wear personal protective equipment like gloves and a face mask. The virus has been found in raw cow’s milk or raw dairy products from dairy cows. Infections in humans can occur when enough virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose, mouth, or is inhaled. Symptoms include cough, fever, muscle aches, sore throat, headache and shortness of breath. Infected people commonly have red, irritated eyes.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that bird flu cannot be transmitted through safe handling and properly cooking eggs, chicken and beef to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Eggs, chicken and beef should be refrigerated once brought home from the grocery store.

People should report the presence of many sick or dead birds or dead animals to a park ranger or to the NC Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401 or via email at [email protected].

Listen to the full report below:

Contact: Dr. Dick Needleman, Health reporter, 103.3 AshevilleFM, [email protected]

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