“Since 2017 Energy Savers Network (ESN) has been hard at work weatherizing over 1,400 low-income homes in Buncombe County,” says Steffi Rausch, director of operations for Energy Savers Network.

“Since 2017 Energy Savers Network (ESN) has been hard at work weatherizing over 1,400 low-income homes in Buncombe County,” says Steffi Rausch, director of operations for Energy Savers Network.
“Most that have lived along streams and rivers already know: We must be prepared,” says Mary Kelly.
Sarah Thornburg, chair of Asheville City Board of Education, shares why she is hopeful about the future of our county’s two school systems.
“The most hopeful things are when a family or individual’s life has been changed by the generosity I see coming into our valley,” says Mary Katherine Robinson, pastor of Black Mountain Presbyterian Church.
“My multidecade vision for public education is that we become a people that praise educational attainment, uplift everyone who works in education and support students in every way possible as they pursue education,” says Timothy Lloyd, president of ACAE.
“As our grid evolves toward renewable energy, transitioning means a cleaner, more efficient environment,” says Sophie Mullinax, chief administrative officer of Let’s Go Electric/Electrify Asheville-Buncombe.
“If I am healthier, I can help others more often and reduce the load on our first responders and those trying to help us,” says David Thomas, a lifelong recreational cyclist, kayaker, angler and hiker.
To stay positive, UNCA student Olivia Williams says she reminds herself of “all of the intellectual, strong and determined students that surround me in my environmental science classes at school.”
“The light at the end of the tunnel is growing brighter, and I have no doubt that the RAD will emerge more resilient and vibrant than ever,” says Jeffrey Burroughs, president of the River Arts District Association (RADA).
“Buy local groceries when you can and research where your food comes from,” says Kathryn Wolfe co-president of the A.C. Reynolds High School Environmental Club.
“This is the largest single volunteer day in the Pisgah Ranger District and brings together all kinds of people and partners,” says Marielle DeJong, donor engagement officer for The Pisgah Conservancy
As part of Xpress’ Sustainability series, we speak with Anna Plocica, a senior at A.C. Reynolds High School and the co-president of the Environmental Club.
Rev. Charles Martin was elected to the Buncombe County Board of Education, representing the at-large district in November. He also serves as senior pastor of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church.
“After the storm, my heart turned to Psalm 70,” says Rev. Dusty Black. “The psalmist is pleading with God for victory over his enemies, as well as praying that the Lord would be worshipped.”
“It also seems fitting to remember — in his own words — the man who started writing ‘The Gospel According to Jerry’ for this newspaper three decades ago.”
What will be the top 10 baby names for Asheville in 2025? What new slogans will the city employ to attract tourists? What is first-time Asheville City Council member Bo Hess’ top goals for the year? See Xpress’ bold predictions on these questions and more!
The first Black woman to serve as a Buncombe County Commissioner gets sworn in, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance some to Fairview and more.
Voters headed to the polls in local, state and national elections, Asheville (finally) lifts its boil-water advisory, RADFest 1.0 brings hope and more.
The mayor discusses ongoing recovery efforts, the housing crisis and what it was like to survey the region with President Joe Biden.
Western North Carolina reacts the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene.
“Helene reshaped my understanding of the responsibilities inherent in my role as a member of Asheville City Council,” says Bo Hess. “This devastating event has underscored the critical importance of preparedness, resilience and equitable recovery strategies in our governance.”