The rural region, somewhat isolated by the mountains, has struggled with its economic viability, and Helene has exposed some of the area’s tender points.
New Stories
New beginning post-Helene or business as usual?
“So do we really want to return to maximizing profits and exploiting the beauty of our marvelous mountains and the brilliance of our creative people, while risking ever more floods, landslides and the havoc they wreak?”
Letter: Make the connection between war and climate change
“Our endless war-making and support for other countries’ war-making are putting loads of carbon into the air.”
The Dead Tongues and Kevin Rumley release new albums
The longtime locals embrace the magic of solitude and collaboration on their latest collections.
Letter: Now’s the time to apply for SBA loans
“It costs nothing to apply, and the sooner your application is in, the sooner you will know your full options and any approved money will be sent.”
Unwanted livestock find homes at rescue farms
Recently Buncombe County has been awash in pet pigs needing homes. “We have a potbellied pig epidemic,” says Buncombe County Farm manager Don Collins.
Smart Bets: Readings from author Brian Lee Knopp
This month, the former private investigator will read from his new collection of essays at two WNC bookstores.
My Story: Writing my obituary, a how-to manual and love note
“I’m writing this because I have some thoughts to share on the subject of dying.”
Local educators reflect on the lessons learned from Tropical Storm Helene
What lessons have local teachers taken away from Tropical Storm Helene, and how have they incorporated these insights into their classrooms? Xpress finds out.
Golden Agers: Asheville man is shy until you give him a microphone
At 74, Phil Lenowitz resides in Asheville with his wife, Peggy Greene, an Asheville native. Retired for over seven years, he still brings his comedic charm, storytelling skills and HR expertise to his volunteer efforts, including his contributions to AARP.
Letter: Quarter-century brings gratitude and sadness
“I am grateful to see the amount of electric vehicles on the road. We have come a long way in the years since EVs first hit our roads. We saw a reduction in emissions, but we have a long way to go.”
Smart Bets: Coverfest IV
Ten local bands take the stage at the Jan. 19 fundraiser for Asheville Middle School’s eighth-grade annual capstone trip.
Draft report: School districts shouldn’t consolidate
Mandated by the N.C. General Assembly in 2023, Buncombe County hired Charlotte-based Prismatic Services in March to analyze the feasibility of merging the county’s two public school districts based on finances, student enrollment, policies, procedures, student well-being, personnel, operations and facilities.
12-step group helps smokers overcome nicotine addiction
Smokers formed a 12-step group in Asheville to free themselves from nicotine. Along the way, they found that community is their secret power.
