Asheville has been recognized for its splendors by dozens of magazines, Web sites and publications in recent years, ranging from the recent designation by Frommer's as one of a dozen top travel destinations in the world for 2007 to accolades for the local arts, outdoor adventures, cuisine, organic and vegetarian eats, as a top place to live and retire, and much more.

Bele Chere serves as a showcase for local, regional and national talent on six stages over the weekend of July 24-26. Past festivals have attracted as many as 300,000 attendees, many of them with a hankering for funnel cakes. Bele Chere hires more than 80 entertainers, from bands to street performers. The festival is produced by the city of Asheville Parks and Recreation Department and the Bele Chere Board of Directors.

Homeowner seeks advice on quality vinyl products

Brightening tips to make cooking, cleaning even more fun

When it comes to lighting, few places in the home are more important than the kitchen. From general lighting to specific task lighting, a well-designed lighting plan makes the use and enjoyment of any kitchen a much brighter undertaking.