Fright night done right

Halloween falls on a Thursday this year, making it hard to plan a party. But we’re sticklers for celebrating on the actual date: No early birthday presents for us, no pre-emptive Christmas stockings and no sexy Uncle Si costumes before Oct. 31. With that in mind, here’s where to trick or treat on All Hallows […]

For a walkable Charlotte Street

Jerry Sternberg’s column “Charlotte’s Web” [Oct. 16 Xpress] is a shortsighted condemnation of those supporting efforts to improve conditions on Charlotte Street. Rather than “a continuing strategy … to keep the Great Unwashed from invading their neighborhood,” those I know in support of the plan (including myself) wish to make the neighborhood more inviting. The […]

Endless spew

[Editor’s note: Gwar is a satirical, crude, heavy-metal band that performs and interviews in character. Readers sensitive to profanity and disturbing images and themes may wish to avoid this article.] You’ve probably never worried about aliens oversleeping, but this reporter recently dealt with one self-proclaimed extraterrestrial who did just that. Oderus Urungus is the singer […]

Late-night bites

Correspondent Michael Franco continues his exploration of dining options on the late-night scene. This installment takes a look at the after-hours offerings at Isis Restaurant & Music Hall. Isis Restaurant & Music Hall 9:30 till midnight (or later) Wednesday-Sunday. 8:30 till midnight (or later) during Tuesday Bluegrass Sessions. $4-9 per dish Alongside all the fiddling, […]

If satisfied with the status quo, don’t vote

Satisfied that Asheville’s financial liquidity (fund balance) decreased from 2004-10 by 53.3 percent ($23.9 million to $11.2 million)? Satisfied that the total debt for its noncurrent liabilities increased from 2007-12 by 55.4 percent ($82.2 million to $127.9 million)? Satisfied that the total liabilities increased by 60.2 percent ($91.6 million to 146.8 million) for the same […]

Renters deserve protection from mold

I am responding to your comprehensive article “Breaking the Mold” [Oct. 16 Xpress]. The descriptions of the problems that the tenants endured, including hidden and visible mold, odors, damage, etc. are health issues. The article stated that the city will, in some cases, have a building inspector investigate the complaints. If the problems are substantiated, […]

Full confidence in Manheimer

As someone who cares deeply about Asheville and its future, it's with great pleasure that I announce my support for Esther Manheimer as the next mayor of the city of Asheville. Initially, I held some misgivings about her candidacy, but through the campaign process, she has won my full confidence and proven herself the best […]

Have a joke on me

Jokes are a great way to relieve stress. Life can be hard, and humor can help us through trying times. I love jokes and I want to share them with the world. That is why I am offering to tell jokes for free to anyone who could use them. Just call me at (828) 989-9459 […]

Public nudity not a civil right

As a new North Carolina resident, I found Jeff Johnson of Alabama's belief that female, public partial-nudity is a "civil right" to be questionable [see letter, “Cancel Asheville’s Topless Summit,” Oct. 16 Xpress.] I'm guessing it was based on his being male and from Alabama. While I do not know what Asheville law states, I […]

Arts of Darkness: Two weekend exhibition­s couple music and art

Mountain Oasis doesn’t necessarily bill itself as an arts and music festival. But that’s not to say the two will be strangers this weekend. Two art exhibitions opening Friday night at Push Gallery and Saturday afternoon at the Apothecary partner artistic abilities with musical influences, adding to the weekend’s festivities. By Kyle Sherard