“I think the Asheville I knew died for me when Ben died,” author Thomas Wolfe wrote in a 1929 letter. Wolfe’s older brother Ben perished on Oct. 19, 1918, from complications resulting from influenza.
Author: Thomas Calder
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Nonprofits consider new fundraising techniques during COVID-19
With social distancing practices and limited crowd sizes likely the new normal for the foreseeable future, local nonprofits are reconsidering how they go about connecting with their supporters.
Asheville Archives: City confronts the latest influenza outbreak, 1920
As 1920 began, so too did the city’s latest bout of influenza. An initial six cases quickly skyrocketed to 232. Once again, the city was confronted by a highly contagious virus that needed to be curtailed.
Therapy in the time of COVID-19
Clinical social worker Carol Young Wood has shifted most of her therapy sessions online; however, she still meets with a handful of clients in-person. The impacts of COVID-19 dominate most of the conversations.
Local resident documents COVID-19
Local resident Nicora Gangi is on a mission to photograph the impact of COVID-19 on the city’s urban landscape and residents.
Local author Marvin J. Wolf examines soldiers’ lives after Vietnam
In his latest book, “They Were Soldiers: The Sacrifices and Contributions of Our Vietnam Veterans,” local author Marvin J. Wolf interviews 48 Vietnam veterans, including Oliver Stone and Colin Powell, about their lives after the war.
Asheville Archives: What residents learned in the immediate aftermath of the 1918 influenza
“I have no desire to frighten Asheville or to create any unnecessary alarm,” declared Dr. Carl V. Reynolds on Sept. 6, 1919. “But I do feel that the public should get a warning of the danger of failing to take steps to prevent a return of influenza here.”
COVID-19 inspires creative instruction
Local artist Cleaster Cotton confronts COVID-19 on the canvas.
Warren Wilson College plans virtual commencement ceremony
Press release from Warren Wilson College: Traditionally, when seniors graduate from Warren Wilson College, they receive an Eastern Hemlock sapling. The tree represents a new beginning. Just as each graduate leaves the College to go, lay down roots, and grow, the graduate is encouraged to plant this tree away from campus to represent their mark […]
Coloring for the win
Inspired by Xpress’ recent back cover coloring page provided by Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co., the group organized a coloring contest. Thirty participants, both children and adults, submitted their works. We’ve got the winners.
Asheville Archives: Residents resist the city’s 1919 influenza safety measures
In January 1919, Buncombe County reported 141 new cases of the influenza over a 72-hour period. In response, Dr. Carl V. Reynolds, the city health officer, announced a new ban on social and fraternal gatherings. Displeased residents spoke out against the latest safety measures.
The Rev. L.C. Ray adjusts to online sermons during COVID-19
With 49 years experience as a pastor, the Rev. L.C. Ray adjusts to life as an online preacher during COVID-19.
Local archivists urge residents to help document COVID-19
Recognizing the historic significance of COVID-19, local archivists discuss ways to record the moment for future generations. They also offer guidance for those looking to better organize their family documents during the “stay home, stay safe” mandate.
Local hairstylist discusses life without her salon
Prior to COVID-19, hair stylist and salon owner Laura Anderson viewed her industry as recession-proof. These days, with her business temporarily closed, she is finding ways to adjust to life during a shutdown.
Living through COVID-19 at the Battery Park Senior Apartments
For the last two decades, Barbara Gravelle has called the Battery Park Apartments in downtown Asheville her home. Like many right now, she is anxious about the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Road closures to occur during construction on two street bond projects
Press release from the City of Asheville: Short-term pain for long-term gain. Please keep that in mind during road closures coming up for two transportation bond projects. In March, the City of Asheville shared information regarding a general construction schedule for the Kenilworth Road and State Street bond projects. (Find that announcement at this link.) […]
Asheville Archives: How wishful thinking helped spread the 1918 influenza
Throughout November 1918, local health officials and residents continued their efforts to contain the spread of influenza. But as December neared, the city seemed eager to get back to business as usual, despite the risks involved.
Asheville Archives: Exploiting the 1918 influenza
In 1918, as cases of influenza increased, local Asheville businesses sought ways to use the pandemic to increase sales.
Local Airbnbs face cancellations, loss of revenue
There are 764 active homestay permits within the city limits. Xpress spoke with local hosts to see how they are handling the current county mandate, which prohibits leisure travel.
Author Lee Smith discusses publishing during COVID-19
Unlike many of her readers who are currently adhering to “stay home, stay safe” mandates, the characters in Lee Smith’s latest work are unbound — they socialize, carry out illicit love affairs, spy on neighbors, find themselves institutionalized and chain-smoke (with the windows up) inside a silvery-gray fishtailed Cadillac.
Asheville Archives: Two gallons of whiskey and a pandemic
In the midst of the 1918 influenza, one local resident attempted to use the health crisis to aid his legal defense.