February 17, 2016 – mountainx.com

Regulatory process for new Duke Energy plant speeds down fast track

February 17, 2016 by Virginia Daffron

A fast track approval process created specifically for Duke Energy’s proposal to replace coal-fired generators at its Lake Julian plant with natural gas-fired units speeds toward a Feb. 29 deadline. Environmental advocates and citizens are moving quickly to weigh in on Duke’s plans.

Call for recreation areas sparks tensions in forest process

February 17, 2016 by Xpress Contributor

Tensions have boiled over within the Stakeholders Forum that has been seeking to build harmony on the Pisgah-Nantahala Forest plan revision after more than 40 organizations signed a memorandum of understanding supporting the creation of two National Recreation Areas in Western North Carolina.

Help the city plan for public art acquisitions and installations as part of RADTIP

February 17, 2016 by Alli Marshall

Representatives from the city of Asheville, in collaboration with the Asheville Design Center, brainstormed with residents about how to incorporate public art in the River Arts District Transportation Improvement Project.

Andrew J. Fletcher improvises live piano soundtrack to Chaplin’s The Kid

February 17, 2016 by Edwin Arnaudin

The Asheville stride pianist’s sixth accompaniment of a silent comedy also includes a short film and a performance by his band, The Roaring Lions.

Smart bets: The Three Davids

February 17, 2016 by Kat McReynolds

Diana Wortham Theatre hosts the songs and storytelling of David Holt, David Wilcox and David LaMotte on Saturday, Feb. 20.

Beer today, gone tomorrow: Asheville beer happenings Feb. 17-22

February 20, 2016February 17, 2016 by Scott Douglas and Edwin Arnaudin

**UPDATED FEB. 20** Font Flora hosts its second Funk and Monk event, Burial releases Bolo cans and Lookout debuts its newest sour.

Digital love: Dating in the Internet age

February 17, 2016February 17, 2016 by Hayley Benton

The overall approach to dating and relationships has changed wildly in the last century or so — and more recent advancements in technology and gender equality have only accelerated the shift. At the same time, smart phones didn’t invent the game. So how much has really changed in the quest for love?

Small bites: MANNA FoodBank packs its millionth book bag with weekend food

February 17, 2016 by Kat McReynolds

MANNA FoodBank will deliver its millionth weekend food pack to a local student; Table will explore the many Mexican moles at an upcoming dinner event; Medea’s Espresso & Juice Bar is offering a fermentation workshop; and an A-B Tech culinary arts graduate is advancing to a national-level competition.