New Stories
Commission to vote on extending health department COVID support
After a nearly four-hour session on July 19, the Buncombe Board of Commissioners will navigate through a shorter agenda for the Aug. 2 meeting. A series of budget amendments comprise the new business schedule. The board will vote on whether to distribute $1.2 million of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funds to extend […]
Nonprofits strive to meet affordable housing demand
Three projects proposed by outside nonprofit developers, either recently approved by Asheville City Council or currently being considered, offer 100% affordable housing targeted for older residents. Together, the three will add over 200 affordable units to the city’s stock.
Documentary short immortalizes 1972 HHS basketball team
Director Keith Dunnavant discusses making his latest documentary sports film.
Local bands discuss touring amid inflation
Rising costs have brought an already wrought situation to the brink, but Asheville-area artists continue to make it work.
Terry Roberts explores jazz and economic ruin in his latest novel
“I wanted to somehow capture both the ’20s, with its jazz influence, while at the same time explore the decade’s demise — that pivotal point when things start to go south,” says author Terry Roberts, in discussing his latest novel.
GA short session yields both change and inertia for WNC
From occupancy tax allocations and hemp production to private bar membership, state legislators voted on several measures that are consequential to WNC in their recently concluded short session.
Asheville open space updates approved
The updates, which have been controversial, are meant to encourage the construction of affordable housing by reducing and simplifying building regulations and incentivizing stormwater management.
Around Town: Asheville Jewish Community Center celebrates Israeli fine art
J Art Show explores work of prominent Jewish artists, BMCM+AC reimagines 1951 dance and music performance, Anything Fiber Yard Sale features leftover studio finds, and more!
What happens when Asheville clears a homeless camp
The city of Asheville has contracted a company specializing in crime scene, hoarding and suicide cleanup to clear former homeless encampments.
Letter: Asheville and Buncombe lead the way on forest plan objections
“It’s inspiring to see so many objections to the disappointing Pisgah-Nantahala forest plan, which wants to maximize logging and minimize protections for the forest.”
What’s new in food: Grove Arcade hosts inaugural summer festival
The inaugural Grove Arcade Summer Festival brings a number of restaurant specials to the historic building. Also: chef Elliot Moss announces his departure from Buxton Hall Barbecue; Cafetería y Taqueria la Jarochita launches in Arden; and more!
Letter: When will we see investments that benefit taxpayers?
“Why are we giving developers a ‘free pass’ to build on every possible square inch of property? What will this reduction in open space do to our tree canopy?”
Letter: Overlooking the elephants in Asheville’s room
“Take, for instance, objections recently raised in the Mountain Xpress to increased housing density, open-space reduction and infill construction.”
More mental health services coming to WNC
Buncombe County is one of the 91 counties the Office of Rural Health has designated as experiencing a behavioral health professional shortage. In fact, the 2022 departmental map designates all 16 counties of Western North Carolina as experiencing a shortage.
Letter: WNC needs nonprofit hospital
“HCA must not be the only hospital available to WNC.”