This weekend on a shoestring

Thursday, May 30

• “This community awareness-raising program features a panel discussion on ‘Independent Media in Asheville’ and includes: Nelda Holder, freelance writer and contributing editor to Mountain Xpress; Mark West, chair and professor of mass communication at UNCA; Erik Mattox, president of the board of directors of Friends of Community Radio; Angie Newsome, director and editor of Carolina Public Press; Cecil Bothwell, Asheville City Council member, former news reporter and community radio host,” begins a release for Asheville FM’s Independent Media in Asheville panel. “Join these experienced leaders for a discussion of the role and challenges of free press and independent media today, including policy proposals that could support public news and local voices. The panel will be moderated by Nelda Holder, and the public will be invited to ask questions and offer comments. The event is open to the public. There is a suggested donation at the door, and proceeds will benefit Asheville Free Media, Black Mountain College Museum and Arts Center and Carolina Public Press.” 56 Broadway St. 7 p.m.

• The Grey Eagle hosts “Bring the Noise,” a local showcase featuring noise rock trio Telecine, anthemic shoegaze outfit Knives and Daggers (pictured) and experimental imrpov duo LULO (Ahleuchatistas’ Shane Perlowin and Ryan Oslance). More, from Knives and Daggers’ bio, “Knives and Daggers is a dynamically-turbulent, noisily-emotional blend of shoegaze and heavy-riffed post rock. Three fuzz guitars take turns with rhythm and lead, drone and echo, and carefully composed harmonies, sometimes accompanied by classical string instruments. The drums and bass are steadfast and effortlessly assemble the rhythm through the graceful tangle of the guitars.” 181 Clingman Ave. 9 p.m. $5.

Friday, May 31

• “Join us at the Colburn Earth Science Museum for an informal and lively science discussion while enjoying some local beverages,” invites a Facebook page for Beer City Science. “Catawba Valley Brewing will provide a selection of beers for the May 31 event. A $10 donation will get you 3 beers!” 2 S. Pack Square. 5:30-8 p.m.

• From the Zapow art gallery, “Joshua Marc Levy is an award-winning independent art director, designer, illustrator and fine artist living in Asheville. He has produced album covers, posters and merchandise for artists including AC/DC, Grateful Dead, The Black Crowes and local bands like The Fritz, Velvet Truckstop and, most recently, The Broadcast. Joshua has shown his artwork at galleries in New Jersey, New York City and Asheville. He currently shows his work at ZaPow Gallery in downtown Asheville. Joshua is teaming up with Martin Coyle of Blotter Art Company to produce his first ever, limited edition blotter art prints. … Blotter art is a recognized form of folk art and is highly collectable. This type of art has transcended the underground market and is available to collectors worldwide. These strictly limited signed editions of 150 were printed on press using the highest quality archival paper and ink. Please join us on Friday May 31 at Zapow art gallery from 6-8 p.m. for an unveiling, signing and numbering of the artworks. Meet the artist and dance to a free experimental live set of music by The Jamar Woods Experience, featuring members of The Fritz, Asheville’s high-energy funk and rock band.” 21 Battery Park Ave., Suite 101. Free.

• Transylvania County Library‘s Music at Sunset outdoor concert series will feature The Wilhelm Brothers in the library’s amphitheater. More, from the band’s Facebook, “The professional and full-time group combines the singer-songwriter talents of Chris Wilhelm with the sonic beauty and skill of cellist Cristof Ensslin. Their sound emphasizes love of a good story delivered in song and employs folk, roots and indie influences. The music is infectious and insightful.” July 5 in the case of rain. 7:30 p.m. Free.

• Anam Cara Theater Company presents its latest cabaret variety show, featuring comedy, music and a “bizarre menagerie of talented and entertaining performers” at 203 Haywood Road. $5-$10 sliding scale. Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1 at 8 p.m.

• From a Clubland feature in this week’s Xpress, “To call Josephine Foster‘s recorded work eclectic is like calling The Beatles ‘influential’: not inaccurate, but grossly understated. The Colorado native began singing at funerals and weddings as a child and has since dabbled in psychedelic rock, Spanish folk songs, children’s music, Tin Pan Alley classics, art pop, jazz and a series of compositions based on Emily Dickinson poems. But through it all, Foster’s captivating soprano manages to make the songs and styles all her own. She visits Asheville for an intimate performance at Apothecary.” 39 S. Market St. 9 p.m. $8.

Saturday, June 1

• “The third annual Art, River and Music Festival will take place on Saturday, June 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Murphy, N.C., on the beautiful River Walk Trail located at the Historic L & N Depot,” according to the Cherokee County Arts Council‘s website. “The Farmers Market will take place at the Depot, and the Art, River and Music Festival will stretch back in the cool shade along the River Walk Trail. Arts activities for kids are available during the day, as well as a petting zoo and other fun diversions! Art: More than 40 local and regional artists will have booths in the Farmers Market and the juried section along the River Walk. These fine crafters and artists will have a variety of wonderful art for sale including jewelry, woodturning, pottery, weaving, photography, woodcarvings, furniture, paintings, baskets and much more. In addition, live demonstrations will be featured throughout the day. River: The Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition (HRWC) and Appalachian Outfitters will lead canoe trips to various points of interest. Canoe trips are free to the public, and there will be a sign-up sheet during the day to schedule river trips. In addition, HRWC will judge a crazy float contest at 2 p.m. Music: The stage will feature local and regional musicians and dancers throughout the day, including music and dance traditional to our unique mountain region, as well as contemporary original music!” 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free to attend; $30 for float contest.

• Interested in urban homesteading? Why not start with some feathered friends? Matt Wolpe will share DIY chicken coop designs featured in Reinventing the Chicken Coop: 14 Original Designs with Step-by-Step Building Instructions during a presentation at Malaprop’s, 55 Haywood St. Free. 7 p.m.

• From a post for Highland Brewing Company’s battle of the bands, “Judges will select four bands from the submissions to battle it out live on June 1. Each will perform a 20-minute set. Grand prize is eight hours of recording time at Sound Temple Studio and a 30-minute set at The Orange Peel on Aug 24, 2013, during the fifth annual Rock Academy Benefit for Give to the Music. Prizes awarded for second, third and fourth place also.” Featuring The River Rats, Space Truckers, The Company and Todd Cecil and Slide Song. 12 Old Charlotte Highway. 6 p.m. $8 in advance.