Don’t spend tax dollars in Buncombe

To the Editor:

The Haywood County Board of Commissioners has been transferring $75,000 annually, since 2018, to Buncombe-Asheville Chamber of Commerce for a “Joint Economic Development” initiative to attract businesses and jobs to Haywood County. 

Don’t disrespect the word ‘faith’

To the Editor:

It is not about policy. It is not about politics. It is not about being a Democrat, Republican or independent. It is not about being progressive, conservative or moderate. It is about faith.

Whatley doing nothing for WNC

To the Editor:

Michael Whatley was appointed by the President to lead WNC’s Helene recovery efforts, but as of Aug. 29 — as reported in an article in The Smoky Mountain News on Aug. 27 — he hasn’t been seen in WNC since January. He’s found time to attend just two meetings for his appointed role with FEMA.

We have to fix Social Security

To the Editor:

AARP recently sent out an email with this message:

“Social Security will continue to give people the full amount of money they’ve earned in the next several years. However, payments may be reduced by about 20% if Congress doesn’t act by 2034, according to the Social Security Board of Trustees’ latest report.

Helping those still struggling

To the Editor:

Nearly a year after Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina is still in the thick of a housing crisis. Families who once had steady jobs are now living paycheck to paycheck, one unexpected setback away from losing their homes. 

Ethics training can be worthwhile

To the Editor:

It was reported in The Smoky Mountain News on Aug. 5 that Jackson County Commissioner John Smith’s completion of a statutorily required ethics training within a year of being elected was in question.

This ex-Republican ­fears for the future

To the Editor:

In the 2024 Presidential race, 49.8% of the votes went to Donald J. Trump, who promised to reduce the costs of consumer goods, end the wars in Gaza and Ukraine and fix our immigration crisis.

America’s cultural revolution is underway

To the Editor:

“A decade was marked by ideological zeal, systemic upheaval, cultural cleansing, and concentrated power, all underpinned by the leader’s personal cult and political dominance.”

This description of China’s Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) sounds eerily familiar today under the Trump administration.

President's priorities are not mine

President’s priorities are not mine

To the Editor:

Priorities: $200 million for a ballroom in the White House; $1 billion to retrofit a jet given by Qatar. Contrasted by cuts to Medicaid and other safety net programs. 

Be informed about Local elections

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. 

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