Black Mountain’s beloved Robo Oil Tree was downed by a tornado in May. But thanks to the efforts of some local tree enthusiasts, its legacy will live on in the town.
New Stories
UNC System approves van Noort’s plan to eliminate 4 UNCA academic departments
While the programs will be eliminated, classes in those areas will still be offered, van Noort repeatedly told the board’s Committee on Educational Planning, Policies, and Programs before the board’s action.
County commissioners to create STR ad hoc committee
After several work sessions, hours of public comment and the clock ticking down on a 100-day pause, Buncombe County commissioners said at their July 16 briefing meeting that they planned to create an ad hoc committee to address sticking points in a proposed short-term rentals ordinance.
Xpress wins multiple awards
The Association of Alternative Newsmedia recently announced its 2024 award winners. Xpress staff won first place in the Special Publication category for its Best of WNC guide. The paper also won multiple North Carolina Press Association awards.
ABCCM breaks ground on Safe Haven shelter
Safe Haven will be an emergency shelter operating 24/7 and year-round with 36 beds for single women, women with children and up to two intact families.
Lack of swimming lesson options leaves Asheville parents frustrated
Many Asheville parents say they have trouble finding swimming lessons for their children, especially in the winter months.
Around town: New collection charts Buncombe County’s history
New book explores Buncombe County history, Asheville Symphony retains pivotal music director, Asheville Community Theater turns 78, and more!
What’s new in food: Mamma Mia! Café celebrates Venezuelan fusion flavors
Coffee, sandwiches, fruit smoothies and fresh-baked pastries are on the menu at the new downtown spot. Also this week: Loretta’s Café has closed, 12 Baskets rolls out a new dining and grocery model, High Five Coffee adds weekend brunch service and much more.
Letter: Take a vacation from plastic with Plastic Free July
“The primary goal is to raise awareness about the environmental impact of single-use plastic pollution and inspire people to make sustainable choices in their daily lives.”
Letter: Still opposed to Haw Creek rezoning
“I’m still against approval because of flooding, traffic, no affordable housing, school and school bus safety, and impact on environment issues.”
Warren Wilson College hires director for new climate studies program
New master’s program focuses on changing climate and what can be done — and said — about it.
Letter: Compassion first would benefit everyone
“I can only say that as a society, it would be to everyone’s benefit if we could live with and love our neighbors with compassion. Most of us are only one tragedy away from being homeless ourselves.”
My Story: You can’t see what lies round the bend
“Realizing that some people might assume I disliked the preacher due to his religious views, I included this sentence in the book’s acknowledgements: ‘I don’t believe in supernatural beings of any stripe, and I happily acknowledge that I could be wrong.’”
Working together: Celebrating hidden gems
“A lot of times, even locals haven’t heard of these [places] or been there yet,” says Kaye Bentley, founder of Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours. She brings her guests — locals and tourists alike — to bar across Asheville.
Letter: Help housing shortage via Women Build
“I helped lead the first house in 1994, and since then, women have worked together to build 19 affordable houses in Buncombe County to help with our critical housing shortage.”