The risks of COVID-19 are real, and it’s time to stop downplaying them. Here’s a glimpse at what we’re actually facing — and some ways you can help keep your community safe Above: A sign for the SoCon basketball tournament, which city government decided to…

Council candidate Sage Turner bills herself as a progressive reformer, but her real record is mired in terrible worker treatment, shady hotel deals and pushing relentlessly for more cops and gentrification Above: Turner tending her hives, photo from the French Broad Co-op’s public relations material.…

The Blade asks about cutting the police department, funding transit, reining in hotels and more as we take aim at the candidates running in the Asheville City Council primary Above: City Hall under renovation. Photo by Bill Rhodes Yes, Asheville, we are once again asked…

Name: Nicole Townsend Profession: Organizer In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: People-Centered Movement In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I am running for Asheville City Council because I believe that we need officials who stop silencing people who…

Name: Rich Lee Profession: Financial Advisor In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running:  I believe Asheville ought to be doing better, and I believe we can improve the everyday ways we experience life in our city, now.…

Name: Keith Young Profession: Deputy Clerk of Superior Court In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: Progressive, Democrat, Pragmatic In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I’m a black man in America that knows what it is like to face…

Name: Kim Roney Profession: Piano Teacher, Service Industry Worker, Community Radio Producer, Community Advocate In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: Affiliated with People In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: After 5 years of attending and reporting back to…

Name: Shane McCarthy Profession: Construction Manager In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: Progressive Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I’m an Asheville native who has lived through our city’s problems first hand, I have an education and…

Name: Sage Turner Profession: Finance & Project Manager, French Broad Food Co+op In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: Liberal, registered Democratic In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: As a longtime community volunteer, I am alarmed by our community…

Name: Kristen Goldsmith Profession: Retail manager In up to three words, describe your political affiliation: Progressive Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: As a former architect, and current shift worker, I’m focused on sustainable development for Asheville, including affordable housing and fare-free…