State intends to spray Spongy Moth treatment over Haywood, Jackson

Residents of western Haywood County and eastern Jackson County will have the chance to learn about the Spongy Moth infestation that has hit several areas of the region, as well as what the N.C. Department of Agriculture plans on doing about the problem. 

Interstate 40 on fast track to reopening

A visit from U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and comments made by North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein have given residents of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee considerable reasons for optimism as the region continues to recover from Hurricane Helene.

Junaluska teacher wins statewide award for teaching reading

Each year the North Carolina Department of Education travels across the state to recognize one district or school per region that stands out for their work and commitment to the Science of Reading.

More river gauges coming to Haywood

Residents of Haywood County will have more information at their fingertips the next time flooding presents a risk, after Haywood County commissioners unanimously approved the purchase of seven new river gauges to monitor area waterways. 

Haywood Christian Ministry announces expansion of WNC anti-hunger initiatives

Haywood Christian Ministry’s food infrastructure is moving to a new facility in Bethel.  

HCM’s new food plan aims to ensure equitable food distribution across the county, not just in the population centers.

Free training on domestic violence prevention

REACH of Haywood County is sponsoring a free training for all community leaders, law enforcement personnel, social workers, healthcare professionals and concerned citizens from Haywood and surrounding counties. 

Cooperative extension offers hay for farmers

Haywood County offers resources for farmers needing hay are encouraged to contact the Haywood County Cooperative Extension Office to speak with a livestock agent. 

Haywood opens summer camp survey

Anyone interested in enrolling their child in summer camp in Haywood County should take part in the Waynesville Parks & Recreation Department’s survey.

Of truth and trust: Lack of accountability haunts charitable hurricane relief efforts

After Hurricane Helene completed its devastating march from the Gulf of Mexico to the Great Smoky Mountains, the struggles of disaster survivors — from environmental devastation and bureaucratic hurdles to inadequate recovery support — have exposed a broken cycle of aid and accountability, where truth and trust become enveloped in a murky ethical mist that consists, at least partially, of exploitative promises made worse by false premises and finger-pointing.

Coming home: Following his departure from Balsam Range, Buddy Melton looks ahead

At age 55, Buddy Melton decided to make a major change in his life, which resulted in his recent departure from Haywood County bluegrass juggernaut Balsam Range. 

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