In Photos: River Whyless with Shannon Whitworth at The Orange Peel

It was history in the making. It was an arrival. And it was probably also a departure because, as much as River Whyless is cut from and contributes to the fabric of Asheville’s music scene, this is a band that is no longer just local, just ours. The group has made its leap to the next level and it was a joy to watch them take flight.

Local businesses drive Asheville vibe

Walk any downtown Asheville street and you’re likely to encounter some quirky storefronts offering unusual products. Together, these “specialty shops” or boutiques, most of them locally owned businesses, are a key component of the city’s distinctive flavor, attracting thousands of tourists each year and helping fuel the economy.

Asheville hosts forum on Growing the Appalachia­n Food Economy

With local-food sales predicted to reach $7 billion this year, it makes sense for cities, counties, states and regions to focus on the local food company. To that end, the Appalachian Regional Commission is hosting a forum on the issue today and tomorrow, April 4, at the Renaissance Asheville Hotel. As one participant noted via Twitter, “Sustainable farming only occurs when social responsibility, environmental stewardship and economic viability work together.”