Photo Galleries

This clean-up has become a regular event in the Swannanoa community, where teams of volunteers in orange safety vests pick up trash and debris along various roads, including U.S. 70, Old U.S. 70, Patton Cove Rd., Davidson Rd, Bee Tree Rd., and along the river.

Thick spring growth does not deter volunteers from digging deep in knee high grass, brush and water to remove bottles, plastic containers, fast-food wrappings and more. By the end of the three-hour work period, volunteers usually collect about 100 bags of trash, along with tires, mattresses and assorted signs.

“It was fun,” said one volunteer, “I really feel like we did some good cleaning.” FANS hopes that this same energy and enthusiasm will continue in Swannanoa when the community clean-up committee is looking for volunteers for the next Swannanoa Sweep.

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Volunteers and Swannanoa Valley residents of all ages keep the garden growing and enjoy the fruits (vegetables?) of their labor. The garden consists of multiple plots that individuals or groups can rent, plant and care for throughout the season. Renters can grow food for themselves, share with others, sell, or donate. Try it! You’ll enjoy the cabbage, the corn and the camaraderie of fellow gardeners.

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Swannanoa residents filled Native Kitchen & Social Pub in December for the 3rd Annual Holiday Party & Benefit for Habitat for Humanity’s “Dave’s House.” They enjoyed good food, desserts, music and socializing with their neighbors – and made new friends. Part of the proceeds from the event were donated to Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity for “Dave’s House,” which will be built in Beacon Village, and named after former Habitat board member, affordable housing advocate and Swannanoa resident, Dave Bassett. Dave’s widow, Sylvia, and their children also attended and thanked FANS & SBA for the donation.

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Habitat for Humanity’s construction on the fourth of 17 homes kicked off June 21 with a wall raising for "Dave's House," a home being built in loving memory of former Swannanoa resident Dave Bassett, who died of brain cancer. Dave was a member of Habitat's Board of Directors and a strong advocate for building affordable homes in the East Valley. Dave's widow, Sylvia, and his daughters, along with friends and local community members, are raising the money to sponsor this home.

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Swannanoa Sweep 2013

Community Garden – Grovemont

Community Garden – Clover Lane

Mill Around the Village

Holiday Party & Benefit Sponsored by Friends & Neighbors of Swannanoa (FANS) & Swannanoa Business Association (SBA)

Dave’s House Wall Raising in Beacon Village