The Evolution of the 828: Western North Carolina Prepares for a New Connection
Marge•April 1, 2026News
View AllNewsThe Evolution of the 828: Western North Carolina Prepares for a New Connection
WNC -- April 1, 2026: For nearly three decades, the 828 area code has been more than just a prefix for Western North Carolina (WNC); it has been a bad...
Wildfire Surge Hits Western North Carolina: Over 600 Fires Reported in 10 Days
Local firefighters from Western North Carolina are being deployed to fight wildfires raging across the state. We'll share their stories, the challenges they face, and how the community can support them.
April 1, 2026
Fairview Man Sentenced in 2023 Stabbing Death of Jason Edmonds
Tyler Perry Laughter of Fairview pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in the death of Jason Edmonds. This article details the sentencing in Buncombe County Superior Court and provides background on the October 2023 incident.
March 31, 2026
Buncombe's Emergency Alerts Are Back: Sign Up Now After Cyberattack
After a cyberattack disrupted emergency alerts, Buncombe County has restored the system. Learn how to sign up for potentially life-saving notifications about severe weather, road closures, and other critical events.
March 31, 2026
Marion Woman Charged in Jumping Branch Wildfire
A Marion woman faces charges for allegedly starting the Jumping Branch Fire in Pisgah National Forest due to improperly discarded smoking materials. The fire, reported March 29th, burned near Marion, raising concerns about fire safety.
March 31, 2026Sports
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SportsWNC Sports Roundup: Dominant Wins and Major Facility Investments
Dominant performances and intense rivalries marked recent high school baseball, softball, and track and field competitions in Buncombe County, underscoring the community's vibrant athletic spirit....
Asheville City SC Looks Ahead to 2026 Season Following Historic Open Cup Run
Despite a tough loss in the U.S. Open Cup, Asheville City SC has a season ahead. This piece explores the team's upcoming schedule, league goals, and how they plan to bounce back from this defeat, including player development and future roster adjustments.
April 1, 2026
Brevard Baseball's Extra-Inning Thriller Leads WNC High School Roundup
High school sports fans across Western North Carolina saw plenty of action on Saturday, March 27, 2026, as local athletes showcased their talent and passion in baseball, girls soccer, and softball....
March 30, 2026
Hendersonville Girls Soccer Team Wins Thriller Against Owen, 3-2
A dramatic three-to-two victory for Hendersonville High School's girls soccer team over Owen High School on March 23, 2026, ignited community pride in Henderson County and showcased the competitive...
March 26, 2026
Buncombe County High School Sports Roundup
Buncombe County high school athletes displayed their talent and dedication in baseball, softball, and track and field during competitions between Marc...
March 24, 2026Business
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BusinessBuncombe County Budget Boosts Services as Asheville Faces Cuts
Even as Asheville braces for service reductions, Buncombe County residents can anticipate significant investments in community services and infrastructure, thanks to a proposed $504 million general...
A New Era for Care in WNC: Irene Wortham & Liberty Corner Merge
WNC -- March 31, 2026: Two of Western North Carolina’s most established disability support organizations, Irene Wortham Center Inc. (IWC) and Liberty ...
March 31, 2026
Asheville-Salisbury Rail Line Could Generate $1 Billion, Boost WNC Economy
A proposed Asheville-to-Salisbury train line could significantly boost the Western North Carolina economy and ease traffic congestion, advocates say. Supporters of the project gathered at the...
March 31, 2026
Buncombe County TDA to Distribute $11 Million for Tourism Projects
Approximately $11 million will be allocated for tourism-related capital projects in the Greater Asheville area when the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) launches its 2026 LIFT...
March 27, 2026
BorgWarner Solidifies Hendersonville as Hub for AI Infrastructure Power
Henderson County -- Business News March 24, 2026: In a move that positions Henderson County at the forefront of the artificial intelligence revolution...
March 24, 2026Entertainment
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EntertainmentRobert Plant Concert Highlights Asheville's Thriving Music Scene
Robert Plant, the legendary voice of Led Zeppelin, will take the stage tonight at Asheville's Thomas Wolfe Auditorium, underscoring the city's growing reputation as a premier music destination. The...
All Aboard! Bryson City's Bunny Hopper Express Chugs into Town
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad's Bunny Hopper Express offers a unique Easter adventure for families. Enjoy a scenic train ride, an egg hunt, and views of The Fugitive movie set.
March 31, 2026
Dillsboro's Easter Hat Parade: Quirky Hats & Mountain Charm!
Dillsboro's annual Easter Hat Parade returns with its unique blend of eccentric headwear and community fun. Participants can even craft their own hats at Dogwood Crafters before strutting their stuff in the parade.
March 31, 2026
Downtown After 5 Concerts Return to Asheville
Downtown Asheville's free outdoor concert series, Downtown After 5, will bring music and community engagement to the city center this spring and summer with four multicultural shows. Presented by...
March 25, 2026
Remembering Ed Bernard: The Steady Heart of 70s and 80s Television
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a steady, commanding presence from the golden era of television. Ed Bernard, the veteran actor best kn...
March 23, 2026Lifestyle
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LifestyleCane Creek Soccer Fields Reopen with a Ribbon Cutting and Sculpture Unveiling
In celebration, Buncombe County Parks & Recreation purchased a sculpture from chainsaw artist Mountain Mike Ayers of Whetstone Woodworks, who is crafting “
Asheville's River Arts District to Celebrate Arbor Day with Tree Planting, Art
Celebrate Arbor Day in the River Arts District (RAD) on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The family-friendly event offers an opportunity to engage with Asheville's urban...
April 1, 2026
Spring into Action: Asheville’s Ultimate April Event Guide
Asheville -- As the mountains turn that brilliant shade of spring green, Asheville Parks & Recreation is rolling out a massive calendar to help yo...
March 30, 2026
Why a "Free" Puppy Can Cost a Fortune: A Heart-to-Heart with Yancey County Humane Society
Yancey County -- We’ve all seen the posts: a box of "free puppies" at a flea market or a "cheap" litter listed on a local trade site. It’s tempting. B...
March 29, 2026
THE $500 MILLION QUESTION: The Buncombe Budget: Why the Numbers are Climbing
As Buncombe County leaders sit down to hammer out the 2027 budget, the numbers on the table are higher than ever before. With over $504 million in fun...
March 25, 2026Outdoors
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OutdoorsFrom Wilderness to Sidewalks: Staying Safe During the WNC Thru-Hiker Season
WNC Hiking -- March 31, 2026: As spring arrives in Western North Carolina, our trails and town centers see a significant increase in activity. The "Cl...
Town of Lake Lure Wahshburn Marina Update
Town of Lake Lure: March 27, 2026: The Town of Lake Lure, NC is excited to share the encouraging progress at Washburn Marina. Water has returned to t...
March 27, 2026
Town of Lake Lure Morse Park Transformation Underway
Town of Lake Lure -- March 25, 2026: Morse Park Transformation Underway: As restoration efforts continue for beautiful Lake Lure, the Town of Lake Lur...
March 26, 2026
WNC Backyard Escapes: The Haywood County Parks You Might Be Missing
We move to Western North Carolina for the fresh air and the mountain views, but how often do we actually stop to enjoy them? Between the daily commute...
March 25, 2026
The Consistent Classic: Why the Nantahala River is WNC’s Top Trout Destination in 2026
Trout fishing on the Nantahala River remains a cornerstone of the Western North Carolina (WNC) outdoor experience, offering remarkably consistent acti...
March 25, 2026