‘Round these parts, people have a serious need for greens. Fortunately, area farmers feed that need by growing almost every variety under the sun. Hal Oliver of Oliver Organics in Hendersonville grows at least 15 different types of greens. While he grows many you’re likely familiar with, including collards, kale and green cabbage, he doesn’t … Read more
Asheville City Council Oct. 12 meeting Development-review changes on hold Sustainability incentives narrowly approved Handicapped-parking exemption ends By the time Asheville City Council members reached the final item on their Oct. 12 agenda — appointments to assorted local boards — they were visibly drained. No trace remained of the engaged, highly attentive and seemingly enthusiastic … Read more
OK, so I reviewed Mountain Xpress’ “2010 Best Of WNC,” and I have to say that, after looking at one business that swept the categories, I am concerned that your “Best of” issue is not doing the community or the visitors to Asheville justice. In fact, it is misleading! What is the merit to "win" … Read more
In a tumultuous election year, with Republicans seeking to regain control of Congress, North Carolina's 11th Congressional District is an appealing target. Comprising both urban, Democratic Asheville and the more Republican-leaning surrounding counties, the district is rated “Republican +6” by the Cook Partisan Voting Index. Incumbent Heath Shuler, a conservative Blue Dog Democrat, is fighting … Read more
On Oct. 2, over 5,000 people gathered in downtown Asheville to celebrate, raise awareness and be entertained. Blue Ridge Pride 2010 was a huge success, and we are grateful to each and every person who made it possible. Thanks to our volunteers, vendors and sponsors. Thanks to the City of Asheville for your support of … Read more
Elections for the state Legislature don't typically generate the kind of interest that's accorded the more high-profile presidential or congressional contests. A lot of people don't know the names of the folks who represent them in Raleigh, and many voters couldn’t tell you what district they live in. North Carolina’s General Assembly includes 50 state … Read more
With regards to the article on the Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender/Queer "Celebration" [”LGBTQ Celebration,” Sept. 29 Xpress], I feel compelled to announce clearly that those fringe elements don’t represent me as part of the “gay community." … My sexual orientation has nothing to do with making a public nuisance of myself and attempting to "in-your-face" my way into … Read more
Rusty James did his part to capture the seriousness of the celiac epidemic the restaurant industry currently faces [“Some Restaurants Make a Fad of Gluten–Free,” Oct. 6 Xpress]. How does the industry cross the line between understanding and empathizing with the needs of its gluten-free diet clientele? Why have such restaurants not already learned how … Read more
Rep. Susan Fisher and her Republican challenger, John Carroll. Photo by Michael Muller North Carolina’s 114th state House District begins in north Asheville and extends over Weaverville, Leicester and much of northern Buncombe County. Democrat Susan Fisher has held the seat for the last seven years. But Republican John Carroll, a real-estate agent and former … Read more
Rep. Patsy Keever and her Republican Challenger, Mark Crawford. Photo by Michael Muller Republican challenger Mark Crawford says he and Democratic incumbent Patsy Keever are "diametrically opposed" on the political spectrum, but both stress the need to beef up the educational system and bring in jobs. Crawford — a substitute teacher and soccer coach for … Read more
