Former Haywood County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Jeff Haynes has been named the county’s new clerk of superior court.

The announcement was made the morning of Nov. 7, two weeks after Hunter Plemmons informed Chief Resident Superior Court Judge Roy Wijewickrama that he was going to resign after eight years of service.

This year, folks in Haywood County will have the chance to embellish their homes with a one-of-a-kind wreath at the annual NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ Wreath-Making Workshop on Saturday, Dec. 6. The extension office will provide a selection of fresh greenery, natural embellishments and knowledgeable extension master gardener volunteers. 

To the Editor:

Recently three Haywood County citizens long involved in issues of public concern met with Congressman Chuck Edwards at his office in Hendersonville. Issues focused on were SNAP, medical insurance, research cuts and the federal match for Medicaid payments to hospitals and nursing homes.

The steady loss of workers who keep Waynesville’s water running and streets clean has town leaders on edge. 

At the Oct. 28 meeting, council heard grim numbers and took action, voting to fund a pay study meant to stop an exodus that’s led to tremendous turnover and left nine out of about 80 positions vacant. 

A sensational Asheville-based act, Rudy’s Bluegrass Revue will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville.

The trio’s lively performances seamlessly blend bluegrass, Americana, traditional and mountain roots music, all of which will keep your toes tapping and spirits dancing. 

Popular Asheville act Spiro Nicolopoulos Blues Apocalypse will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at The Scotsman Public House in Waynesville. 

A cherished gathering of locals and visitors alike, “Art After Dark” will continue its 2025 season from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, in downtown Waynesville. 

Waynesville took another step toward stabilizing its downtown program on Oct. 28, approving incorporation papers for a new nonprofit that will let the town’s Downtown Waynesville Commission accept tax-deductible donations and compete for grants. 

Trees already line many of Waynesville’s streets and ring the town’s parks, but after Town Council’s Oct. 28 meeting, their future care will no longer be left to chance. Council members voted unanimously to adopt a new municipal tree ordinance designed to protect public trees, reduce energy use, improve aesthetics and promote long-term environmental sustainability. 

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time to raise our collective consciousness about family violence in our community and to highlight the critical support systems available for survivors locally.