Council in retreat

On a cold, rainy Friday at Warren Wilson College, Asheville City Council members sat down for their annual retreat. By the time it was over, seven hours later, Council had sworn to “hold the line” on property taxes, looked into an uncertain budget picture and spent most of the time modifying their strategic plan. They also talked about … boats.

This weekend on a shoestring


Yes, it’s that time again. Make your weekend plans. You’re probably kicking things off with the last Downtown After Five of the season (Underhill Rose — the lovely ladies pictured here — along with Larry Keel & Natural Bridge, Lexington Ave., 5 p.m., free music, need I say more?) — here are some more options to fill in your entertainment calendar without draining your wallet.