Day: October 31, 2007

So—at last “they” have gotten rid of that great big thorn in their side. Cecil Bothwell was a kind of town crier, trying to wake us up day after day—one of those whistle blowers who, amazingly, was “allowed” to blow his whistle loud enough to be heard in the enemy camp. I shouted for joy … Read more

I moved to Western North Carolina about eight years ago, and although I do not live in Asheville, I have always looked forward to picking up a copy of the Mountain Xpress on my weekly trek in to the grocery, because there was usually a column or article written by Cecil Bothwell. His thoughtful, well-written … Read more

I was shocked and disappointed to learn that Cecil Bothwell’s employment was terminated by the Xpress. Cecil is not only the most talented reporter in WNC, but he has the energy, instincts and courage to look behind easy answers for the real story. If the paper, its owners and management were the only ones to … Read more

I just heard the astonishing news that Mountain Xpress editors Jeff Fobes and Jon Elliston fired Cecil Bothwell just days after he was voted Asheville’s best local print reporter by the publication’s own readers. There is still some confusion regarding the reasons behind Bothwell’s firing. Cecil said that he was told that his termination was … Read more

I am shocked and dismayed that after your readers voted Cecil Bothwell the best print reporter in Asheville, you saw fit to fire him. [Bothwell] is the most prolific, versatile and incisive reporter on your staff. He is a respected local celebrity. It is obvious that your personal and political opinions have overridden your professional … Read more

Many folks in Asheville have long memories and remember the backing that your paper got from Julian Price when it was supposed to become the standard bearer for investigative reporting and environmental coverage, a niche sadly empty then and, apparently, again in the 21st century. With all the horrors out of Washington, for the Xpress … Read more

I am writing to express my outrage and sadness at learning that Cecil Bothwell—many times winner of the Xpress’ “best journalist” award—[has been fired] for being too outspoken. I have always enjoyed and learned a great deal from reading Cecil’s insightful, thoroughly researched and beautifully written stories, and I believe many other readers feel the … Read more

I wanted to voice my support for Cecil Bothwell’s investigative reporting and my dismay at the recent decision to terminate his position at the Mountain Xpress. For the past five years, I have taken my students from Warren Wilson College to meet with Cecil in your offices so he could give them a glimpse [of] … Read more