Since we came to you last summer asking for your input in the development of the WNC Alliance's strategic plan, we have been hard at work developing that plan. We now present a draft of the plan for your review and comment. The staff and Steering Committee will review your comments, revise the plan accordingly, and bring the final plan to our membership meeting in April for a vote. Please submit your comments by February 15. And, as before, your responses are anonymous.

If you haven't had a chance yet to take a look at the master plan, you can find the plan online at www.ashevillenc.gov/downtownmasterplan.

Come out and hear the word directly from the candidates' mouths! We will be sponsoring a forum along with Mars Hill College in order to focus on the county commissioner candidates' commitment to community values!

It's that time again! Celebrate the Appalachian Trail and have a great time doing it! Come join us in beautiful Hot Springs, North Carolina for our 12th annual Trailfest on April 27, 28, and 29th -- a celebration of the world-famous Appalachian Trail.

On Friday, December 1 and Saturday, December 2, the Laurel Valley Watch will hold a silent auction that showcases Madison County arts and artifacts -- and helps protect the area from which they come.

Mountain Voices Alliance presents: Stacy Mitchell, author of 'Big Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America's Independent Businesses.'