People (and dogs) at Work: A badge, a leash and a lot of love
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — When Officer Kora trots down the hallway at the Asheville Police Department, conversations soften, shoulders drop and smiles spread. The big white Goldendoodle doesn’t carry a badge, track suspects or sniff for drugs. Instead, she gives high-fives, leans in for hugs and, when needed...
The Classic Diner In North Carolina That Quietly Serves The State’s Tastiest Burgers
Some places just get it right from the very first bite, and I’m talking about the kind of burger that makes you reconsider every other burger you’ve ever tasted. I’d heard whispers about this unassuming spot tucked away in Brevard, where locals line up with the kind of devotion usually reserved for championship games.
Letter: City should empower community to rehab abandoned buildings
Thanks to the insistent efforts of Council member Bo Hess, the City of Asheville appears poised to finally address abandoned properties. This is a long overdue step that deserves recognition. Vacant and neglected buildings sap neighborhood vitality, invite misconduct and symbolize civic neglect. But as the city...
10-acre wildfire burns in Candler, 0% contained
CANDLER, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Fire crews were responding Saturday afternoon to a wildfire burning in the Candler community of Buncombe County, according to state officials. The fire was reported in the North Luther Road area, west of Asheville. Social media posts from witnesses described heavy smoke in the area as...
Decorative Hardwoods Association to hold its 105th annual meeting
STERLING, Va. — The Decorative Hardwoods Association will hold its 2026 Spring Conference & 105th Annual Meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, May 12-14 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Asheville Downtown. The meeting includes the opportunity to tour Columbia Forest Products’ Old Fort plant and to see the Biltmore...
Cranberry Township native reflects on Hurricane Helene, recovery and community
Kelsey Blum spent much of her early career helping communities rebuild after disaster. She never imagined she would one day be among those waiting for help. Blum, who now lives in Asheville, North Carolina with her husband and two children, built her professional life around emergency management, responding to...
Finding Great Asian-American Food I: China Tase, West Asheville
Every city has its fair share of Chinese food– Asheville is no different. Everybody you meet will swear by a different local joint, so understandably hard to choose where to go when you’re craving some. That’s why we– Cameryn & Lucas– have set out on a journey to...
Opinion: Asheville has a huge budget gap, which I don’t find shocking
Sign up for free email updates from The Watchdog. You’ll be notified whenever we publish our latest award-winning investigative reporting, John Boyle’s Answer Man and Opinion columns, Tom Fiedler’s Democracy Watch, and more!. I really don’t intend to diss Asheville repeatedly in this space, because I actually...
8 North Carolina Candy Shops Worth Planning a Trip Around
North Carolina is a treasure trove for anyone with a sweet tooth, boasting a delightful array of candy shops that offer more than just sugar. Each shop provides a unique experience, whether through handcrafted chocolates, nostalgic treats, or innovative flavors. These charming spots are perfect destinations for those...
Billy Strings’ shows boost Asheville businesses during late-winter slowdown
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Local businesses are responding to the economic impact of the four-night Billy Strings concert series in Asheville. The event arrived at a time when some restaurants and bars need it most. "It was amazing. We had so many people here in the store. We love...

















