Category: News

A whistleblower tried to raise the alarm about appalling conditions at the Buncombe County jail, the deadliest in the state. This is his story of running into evasion, lies and retaliation from multiple levels of government “The law, in its majestic equality, prohibits rich and…

A bizarre primary campaign season seems to take place in a different world than the harsh reality most in Asheville face Life in this city is goddamn grim. There’s no way around that. There never really was for many of us, but the past years…

Congressional candidate Jasmine Beach-Ferrara has marketed herself as a progressive queer minister devoted to “values of love and peace.” But she’s directed tens of millions in public cash to one of the worst weapons companies on the planet. Above: graphic by Orion Solstice. Background photo…

A long, ugly COVID wave is devastating our communities. Here’s what’s going on and what you need to know to help keep yourself and your community safe Graphic by Matilda Bliss If you want to support the Blade’s covid alerts — and everything else we…

In November, Blade journalist Orion Solstice caught a breakthrough Covid-19 case. This is the story of his ordeal — and recovery — as a working class trans person in Asheville Above: The positive covid test result the author received in November. Photo by Orion Solstice.…

Asheville city government declares war on the houseless and attacks protests, the press, mutual aid groups and anyone who dares to speak up Above: Asheville police move to block off a table with food and supplies during the Dec. 25 raid. Photo by Veronica Coit…

Last April’s police raid on the Aston Park camp set the model for future crackdowns. Documents reveal city officials rejoicing over arrests and seeking to please gentry groups Above: Asheville police gather for the April raid on the Aston Park camp. Photo by Veronica Coit.…

This week Blade reporter Veronica Coit tested positive for covid. This is their story of trying to find tests and treatment in the days of Omicron Above: The writer’s positive at-home COVID test result On Wednesday, Jan. 5 Blade reporter Veronica Coit tested positive for…

Asheville police mark the holiday with a night raid on the Aston Park camp and arrest two Blade journalists for reporting on it Above: Asheville police surround the Aston Park camp and prepare to attack on Dec. 25. Photo by Veronica Coit Blade reporters Matilda…

City hall tries to sneak through a new measure, written by airbnb landlords, to bring in even more airbnbs and kick locals out on the street Graphic by Orion Solstice Tomorrow, Dec. 14, sees the last Asheville city council meeting of the year. It’s bad,…