Held March 17-18, at the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel, the DIY Tourism Marketing Conference drew professionals from across the country, some from as far as Hawaii.
New Stories
Former water resources director details Asheville’s history in new book
While two events in the last three years have shaken the confidence of Asheville’s 125,000 water system customers, the purity of the region’s water has been a driver of growth for two centuries, according to a new book from Michael Holcombe.
Sustaining community: Rev. Dusty Black on the role of faith, post-Helene
“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.”
A Year in Beer: Live music, dark beer and downstream wisdom at Pisgah Brewing Co.
The Year in Beer crew takes a field trip to the Black Mountain brewery, now celebrating its 20th anniversary.
Smart Bets: The Incidental Moment
Pink Dog’s exhibition of work byJoanie Krug and Alan Wieder opens April 4.
From CPP: Asheville’s jobless rate — North Carolina’s highest — is ‘new and unwelcome’ territory
As of January, the most recent figures available, Asheville had a 6% unemployment rate — the state’s highest — according to the N.C. Department of Commerce.
WCU students help analyze Helene-affected cemetery
In an effort to suggest how debris-removal contractors could gently remove the remaining stumps and root balls, archeology students from Western Carolina University (WCU) spent the week of March 10 — their spring break — studying and uncovering graves near tree falls.
Buncombe County libraries adjust to life under Helene-related hiring freeze
Six Buncombe County libraries are operating fewer days than normal because of a hiring freeze. Officials say the changes are just temporary.
FEMA eases major floodplain construction rules; Helene rebuilding plan impacts unclear
The floodplain rules come from the federal Flood Risk Management Standard, which President Trump rescinded by executive order on Jan. 20.
What’s new in food: Tango on a Plate, barbecue and music, Catawba Brewing Co. leaves South Slope
Plus, post-Helene reopenings for several area restaurants and breweries.
Southside Community Farm hosts spring fundraiser at New Belgium Brewing
The April 6 event will help the urban community farm get growing this spring.
Letter: Policies make nursing homes seem like prisons
“I accompanied a senior citizen friend while he moved from his home to a Hendersonville nursing home, and the first thing the nursing home did was to put an electronic bracelet on him to prevent him from leaving.”
Letter: Reinvention and finding hope after Helene
“Being in a place that has experienced a disaster is not just witnessing destruction. It is witnessing the power of the human spirit to rebuild, reimagine and rise stronger than ever before.”
Letter: Hosting exchange students can build connections
“After the challenges Asheville (and America) have faced in recent months, I hope more families will consider hosting an international exchange student and experience the connections that come from opening their homes.”
Letter: Protect UNCA’s urban forest
“We urge UNCA to pause all work immediately. Let’s collaborate on a plan that balances financial needs with preserving this invaluable green space for future generations.”
