Save UNCA Woods Benefit Show

UNC Asheville’s 45-acre urban forest has been a cherished community resource and wildlife habitat for decades. It’s now under threat of development despite its status as one of the last remaining urban forests in Asheville. This show is a benefit for Friends of the Woods, a group of concerned citizens, students, UNCA faculty, neighbors, and more who have the support of the Five Points Neighborhood Association and other local organizations committed to the preservation of this precious urban forest.

Given the time-sensitive nature and Friends of the Woods being an entirely volunteer-run effort, we are fundraising for a campaign to seek transparency and accountability, and to positively influence the university’s use of the forest. The money raised will be used to further the campaign’s efforts. Examples include retaining legal counsel, purchasing signs to increase public awareness, organizing events, paying hosting and domain fees for the website, and preparing for future costs of partners (vendors, contractors, etc.) supporting this campaign. Because this is a volunteer effort, none of the members of the Friends of the Woods group will be paid from any funds collected. If any money is left after all is said and done, we will donate it to a local land conservancy.

For more information, please visit www.saveuncawoods.org

LEAH SONG PROJECT (featuring members or Rising Appalachia)  

Born into a musical family from Georgia, Leah Song is a storyteller, song-catcher, musician, poet, and community builder known primarily for her role as frontwoman of Rising Appalachia, alongside her sister Chloe. As a soloist, she incorporates sultry vocals, storytelling, folklore, ballads and boleros into her laid-back troubadour performances. Her music is based in the traditions of Southern soul, the diasporic music of the Celtic Isles and her deep studies of traditional folk music from across the Americas. 

WILD ROOTS

Wild Roots is an independent, women-led band based in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Headed by Julia Houghton and Olivia Moore, the group released their debut album, Wild Roots Rising, in 2021 and have since continued to tour, playing stages and festivals across the country. Olivia and Julia have co-created music for nearly a decade and collaborate in many areas of life; in addition to being soul sisters, the two share a deep passion for sustainable living and environmental justice. While Wild Roots’ music celebrates the joy of friendship and community, it also seeks to hold those in power accountable and question the status quo. Julia and Olivia harness their political passions to shed light on issues of social injustice and the degradation of the natural world.

DAVID EARL TOMLINSON

David Earl Tomlinson is among Asheville, North Carolina’s more soulful singers and performers.