Ron Jimenez had a literal eye-opening epiphany. “I woke up one morning a couple years ago with an out-of-the-blue conviction to become a vegetarian,” he recalls. “From that day forward, I stopped eating meat and cut back on all animal products.” Raised in Asheville, Jimenez later relocated to Florida to pursue his culinary education before returning to […]
What’s new in food: We Give a Share rebrands as Equal Plates Project
Less than two months after assuming the role as director of We Give a Share, Madi Holtzman nervously approached founding board member Elizabeth Sims with the idea to change the local nonprofit’s name to better reflect its mission to “Make all plates equal.” Sims supported the idea, and in June, Holtzman presented her proposal to the […]
Green in brief: Nonprofits plan conversion of Saluda Grade into trail
The path, running along an inactive railway, would stretch about 31 miles northwest from Inman, S.C., through Tryon and Saluda before terminating in Zirconia, about 7 miles southeast of Hendersonville. Hendersonville-based Conserving Carolina; Greenville, S.C.-based Upstate Forever; and Spartanburg, S.C.-based PAL are leading the effort.
Gardening with Xpress: Tips for growing squash
This month’s column features tips for growing squash, as well as ways to reduce voles from eating into your bounty.
What’s new in food: Asheville chefs fired up for live-fire culinary fest
Cochon555’s national Heritage Fire tour lands in Asheville on Sunday, July 17.
What’s new in food: We Give a Share hires new director
Madi Holtzman, the new director for We Give a Share, notes her vision for the nonprofit’s future. Also: Asheville Independent Restaurant Association names its new executive director; River Arts District Farmers Market lands a new location; and more!
Green in brief: MountainTrue turns 2022 Bioblitz into friendly competition
“By expanding the blitz to four counties and making a game of it, we hope to be able to engage more people and find more species,” said MountainTrue Public Lands Biologist Josh Kelly. “We might even find some that have never been recorded in our region.”
What’s new in food: Botanical Bones earns big treat
Botanical Bones receives a $50,000 grant for its expanding dog treat business. Also: North Carolina Craft Beverage Museum launches its traveling exhibit; Brews & Bears celebrates its latest gathering; and more!
What’s new in food: AVL Honey Fest buzzes into Salvage Station
The inaugural AVL Honey Fest debuts at Salvage Station Sunday, June 5. Also: Livermush Festival returns to Marion; Well Played Board Game Café reopens; and more!
Community Foundation of WNC promotes flexible giving
While most nonprofits must stay focused on their specific cause, suggests board member Caroline Avery, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina’s adaptable structure helps it pivot quickly to meet new challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Fred in 2021. “The community foundation is a charitable Gumby,” she says.
Food nonprofits fight to meet increased need
Since COVID-19 emerged in early 2020, local nonprofits dedicated to meeting the needs of food insecure citizens have been engaged in what feels like an endless game of Whac-A-Mole, no sooner subduing one obstacle before another rears its menacing head.
What’s new in food: Bowling for Loving Food Resources
Asheville Pride Bowling League continues its quest to raise funds for Loving Food Resources. Also: MetroWines hosts grand re-opening; Ben’s Tune Up launches brunch menu; and more!
What’s new in food: Mehfil serves northern Indian cuisine to downtown diners
So radical is the transformation of the storefront building at 5 Biltmore Ave. — revealed on April 7 as Mehfil — that even people who frequently traverse downtown’s main artery may need a reminder of what was there. “It was Hana Japanese Hibachi and Sushi,” says Al Singh, owner of the new Indian restaurant with […]
Pilot program addresses social drivers of health
The Healthy Opportunities Pilot is focusing on food insecurity during its first phase.
What’s new in food: Zella’s Deli brings NY-style sandwiches to WNC
Located on College Street in downtown Asheville, Zella’s Deli serves meatball subs and other sandwich classics. Also: Jeremiah’s Italian Ice opens on Merrimon Avenue; Gospel Ice Cream debuts at the River Arts District Farmers Market; and more!
Q&A: Joe Hollis, founder of Mountain Gardens
Joe Hollis’ whole life is Mountain Gardens, a botanical garden in Western North Carolina that he has cultivated over 50 years. Hollis focuses on growing useful plants, especially medicinal herbs and perennial vegetables, and passing along his plant wisdom to students and apprentices. Workshops, seeds and bare root plant sales support Hollis and his garden. […]
Green in brief: MountainTrue seeks ban on single-use plastics
A study conducted by MountainTrue found an average of 19 microplastic particles — pieces smaller than 5 millimeters, formed by the breakdown of larger plastics — per liter of water in local river systems. Exposure to microplastics has been tied to allergic reactions and other health impacts in humans, as well as negative effects on fish.
What’s new in food: Jamaican specialties arrive at the Asheville Mall food court
Pan Island opens at Asheville Mall’s food court. Plus: Vegan Peruvian food pop-up; Easter chocolates; and more!
What’s new in food: Asheville City Market returns to downtown
After two years away, Asheville City Market returns downtown. Also: Jettie Rae’s Oyster House welcomes The Pearl; Holeman and Finch Public House debuts brunch menu; and plenty more!
Green in brief: Blue Ridge Parkway tops national parks in 2021 visitation
The scenic roadway saw 15.9 million recreation visits in 2021, up from about 14 million in 2020; the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which also includes land in Western North Carolina, was in second place with over 14.1 million visits.
What’s new in food: The Pot Stirred prepares for grand opening
The Pot Stirred, a new CBD cafe, prepares for its launch. Plus: Elevated Kava Lounge opens in West Asheville; Valentine’s Day events; and more!