“I tried to get to the end of Jessica Wakeman’s article on the downside to doomscrolling, but it was too depressing.”
New Stories
Women’s empowerment: A better tomorrow
Sarah Boler, co-president of Mars Hill University’s National Organization for Women chapter, discusses role models, racial equity and taking back the night.
Council check-ins
In our debut WTF feature, Xpress looks into Asheville City Council check-ins to answer some of the biggest questions about the little-known practice that was cast into the spotlight in late January after Council members were found to have discussed a controversial food distribution ordinance during so-called “check-in” meetings.
Around Town: Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows celebrates 35 years in Asheville
The National Arts and Crafts Conference and Shows returns to The Omni Grove Park Inn. Plus: Citizen Vinyl launches a podcast; Hood Huggers offers free tours to Black residents; and the Western North Carolina Historical Association presents a talk on the Brevard Rosenwald School.
What’s new in food: Ladies Who Brunch say rise and shine
Three local female chefs continue to share their love of brunch with the pop-up series, Ladies Who Brunch. Also: Bargello and District 42 host local nights; Benne on Eagle celebrates Black History Month; and more!
Letter: Present the whole picture of COVID-19 vaccines
“You have a responsibility to your readers and the community to report the facts and the whole story.”
Letter: Bears are counting on us to protect sanctuaries
“Bears are counting on us to be their voice against the ominous regulation change proposed by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission to allow permitted hunting in three bear sanctuaries.”
From NC Health News: Native Americans look for ways to stop soaring overdose deaths
North Carolina’s opioid crisis has devastated the American Indian population more than any other. Combating it effectively requires a new approach, and a lot of money.
A Devil’s Dictionary of Development
“When The Market is ‘up,’ sacrifices of mature trees, wild animals and poor people must be offered in order to win Its favor.”
Asheville Archives: Locals campaign for greater safety among motorists, 1936
In 1936, concerns over automobile injuries and deaths led local residents to launch a safety campaign. The goal was to have all county and city motorists sign a pledge card promising their commitment to safer driving practices.
Wellness roundup: Birth control no longer requires a prescription in NC
Pharmacists in North Carolina can now dispense and administer certain medications, including some forms of hormonal birth control, without a prescription, according to a state law that went into effect Feb. 1. Both self-administered oral contraception (birth control pills) and transdermal contraception (birth control patches) are available. House Bill 96 also gives immunizing pharmacists expanded […]
Letter: City acts to punish, not lead on homelessness issue
“Asheville city government appears to be failing its responsibilities as the custodian of homelessness funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.”
Buncombe to reconsider mask mandate Feb. 15
Buncombe County’s current indoor mask mandate has been extended three times after going into effect Aug. 18. Robert Pressley, the only Republican on the Board of Commissioners, has thus far been the only member opposed in any of those votes.
From The Center Square: Another report reveals noncompliance by North Carolina hospitals on price transparency rule
According to a new report by the nonprofit Patient Rights Advocate, only 4 out of 21 hospitals reviewed in North Carolina followed federal price transparency rules in 2021. The organization randomly checked 500 hospitals across the nation. State Treasurer Dale Folwell is calling for federal and state officials to enforce the rules.
