Navigating WNC’s long-term care options

Few words have the ability to inspire more fear, frustration and trepidation among older Americans across the country than “nursing home.” But for those confronting the prospect of needing long-term care, a variety of care options and support services across Western North Carolina provides information to help residents find the best care available.

Despite environmen­tal concerns, salt still most effective de-icer

To keep cars from slipping and sliding — and crashing and smashing — when weather conditions turn roads icy, the city of Asheville and the N.C. Department of Transportation treat local motorways with salt. While the substance can impact water quality and the health of wildlife, officials say they mostly succeed in balancing environmental and traffic safety concerns.

Asheville’s herb shops offer supplement­s from A to Z

If you’re in need of an herbal supplement, you’re likely to find it in one of Asheville’s many herb stores, which carry products for overall health as well as specific health problems such as winter-related colds and flu. If you’re hunting for an unusual gift, many stores carry niche items such as drink concoctions, herbal smoking blends and uncommon essential oils.