I have to agree with the letter about your coverage of Bele Chere [”What Happened to Arts and Crafts Coverage,” Aug. 10 Xpress]. I am new to the area, and I thought from the advertising and coverage in your publication that Bele Chere was a drinking party in the streets. So I didn't go.
— Kyle Anne McIntyre
Asheville
Thanks for reading through to the end…
We share your inclination to get the whole story. For the past 25 years, Xpress has been committed to in-depth, balanced reporting about the greater Asheville area. We want everyone to have access to our stories. That’s a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall.
We’re pretty sure that you know journalism faces big challenges these days. Advertising no longer pays the whole cost. Media outlets around the country are asking their readers to chip in. Xpress needs help, too. We hope you’ll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. For as little as $5 a month — the cost of a craft beer or kombucha — you can help keep local journalism strong. It only takes a moment.
I’m a future resident of AVL who hadn’t visited Bele Chere since I was a child. I did enjoy those experiences, so I always spoke highly of it. I planned my family vacation around BC 2011. Based on our experience, I never plan to go again, unless major improvements are made. I expected unique arts and crafts and better food options. The typical carnival-like food vendors are just not what I expected. Those promoting their religious views through bullhorns was overwhelming and distracting. I had cash in hand, but did not spend one penny with a vendor; we ate at Laughing Seed and bought a handmade craft from the Grove Arcade. We returned home from our vacation with more money than we expected. Get it together Bele Chere! Until then, my family will find another summer event to enjoy.
You weren’t missed.
And I’m sure your cat enjoyed the new socks you stayed home to knit.
There is nothing Special about Bele Chere
Get it together Bele Chere! Until then, my family will find another summer event to enjoy.
Go where the locals go.
http://lexfestasheville.com/
[i]There is nothing Special about Bele Chere [/i]
And if there were, admitting as much would cause you actual, physical pain, so it’s hardly surprising that you would find yet another thing about Asheville that’s just terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad.
Yes attack me, all you do well.
Its yet another street party with no unique to it, its a copy and paste event.