I love buying fresh vegetables, especially when they’re in season, and they look/smell great. But this doesn’t mean that frozen and canned vegetables don’t deserve a place in your fridge, pantry or in your recipes. 

Often when we are working towards better health, we tend to focus all of our attention on what’s on our plate, and not what’s in our glass or cup.

The beverages you drink may be undermining your attempts to cut calories, reduce weight or meet your health goals. 

Pisgah Roasters — Pisgah Forest, NC — Their whole and ground coffee beans with names reflecting familiar regional spots like “Parkway Pick Me Up”, “Shining Rock” and “Dupont Dark” may be on their own display or the local food shelf and can be found at many Western NC Ingles stores. pisgahroasters.com 

Since their formation in 2018, The Brothers Gillespie have become one of the must-see rock acts emerging from Western North Carolina and greater Southern Appalachia. A sonic blend of Americana, indie and folk stylings, the quintet remains steadfast, inspired and, more importantly, hungry for what’s just beyond the horizon of their intent. 

The Haywood County Arts Council in Waynesville is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Grassroots Arts Program grants.

Applications are open through Sept. 5, 2025. Local nonprofit arts organizations and arts programs are encouraged to apply. This grant opportunity is not open to individuals. 

Be on the lookout for these local brands at your Ingles store!

Firewalker Hot Sauce — Asheville, NC — The “secret” in this sauce may be the locally grown hot peppers. firewalkerhotsauce.com 

To the Editor:

Local elections don’t receive much attention but are vital for the well-being of our communities, especially in places like Waynesville, Canton, Maggie Valley and Clyde. The choices made by local officials directly impact our lives, from public safety to essential services. “The Informed Citizen” understands why electing conservative candidates is vital for our city councils. 

If you want to support local businesses, be on the look out for these local products at your Ingles Market. Note: These products are distributed by Blue Mountain Distributors and may only be in select stores. 

If you want to support local businesses, be on the look out for these local products at your Ingles Market. Note: These products are distributed by Blue Mountain Distributors and may only be in select stores. 

The Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville will use its cafeteria to host a two-day show featuring the work of local painter Richard Baker.

Featuring over 200 works from Baker, the exhibition will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 8-9. In addition, there will be a reception from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9.