As we wrap up our first full calendar year of 828newsNOW, we wanted to take a look back at the stories that mattered to our community most in 2025. From all of us on the 828newsNOW team, thank you for reading, sharing and supporting our local journalism. Here’s to continuing to tell your stories in 2026!
Hunter Ward, the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains’ 2025 Builder of the Year, explains how homeowners can evaluate general contractors before beginning a project.
After previously sharing they would close their doors at the end of 2025, Echo Mountain Recording has announced its echo hasn’t died out after all. The Asheville-based recording company will reopen their Church studio space on Feb. 1, 2026.
City council members highlight wages, sustainability as zoning concerns linger
Locally owned store brings fresh produce and essentials to community devastated by Tropical Storm Helene
Just weeks after the “fancy McDonald’s” announced its reopening in Biltmore Village, another franchise has announced its return to the historic Asheville district. Contractors from John W. Abbott Construction Company, Inc. have confirmed that Dunkin’ will be moving into the space formerly occupied by Long John Silver’s at 781 Biltmore Ave.
Creative, locally made gifts add a personal touch to holiday shopping
Who better to tell you about the best books of 2025 than the folks at the local bookstores of Western North Carolina? From queer vampires to epistolary charmers, read on for our local booksellers’ favorite reads of the year.
Blossman Gas & Appliance expects to serve hundreds of residents needing fuel for heating and cooking
Lindsay Johnson has wanted to open a bookstore since she was five years old. With Willbloom Books, a pop-up bookstore based in Weaverville, N.C., her wish has come true.