News Headlines
Good intentions gone wrong: Maconians sound alarm on excessive debris removal
By this point, more than six months after Hurricane Helene barreled through Western North Carolina, it’s a common sight. Heavy machinery moving in and around waterways, working to remove debris that choked rivers and streams during extreme flooding caused by the storm.
Vogel takes helm at REACH: New director brings loads of experience dealing with abuse victims
REACH, the Haywood County nonprofit that provides aid to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, has a new director.
In an interview with The Smoky Mountain News, Sara Vogel affirmed her commitment not only to REACH’s vital mission, but also to the community she now calls home.
Jackson commissioners likely violated law by removing plaque
In response to a public records request made by The Smoky Mountain News, Jackson County Manager Kevin King revealed that commissioners not only failed to discuss in any official meeting removing plaques placed on the controversial “Sylva Sam” Confederate statue at the old courthouse in 2020, they also failed to document any deliberations — likely violating state sunshine laws.
Historic preservation efforts will preserve, promote Waynesville’s unique character
In a town where history lives not just in the pages of books but on every brick-lined sidewalk, beneath every gabled rooftop and deep within every stately mansion, Waynesville’s Historic Preservation Commission is stepping boldly into the future by leaning into a past that, for many locals, hasn’t yet passed.
Giclee printing business opens in Waynesville
A new business focused on printing giclees officially opened in Waynesville last week.
Smoky Mountain Studios, a sister business of neighboring Twigs & Leaves Gallery, is operated by Anna Melton, who has worked in that industry for a decade.
Get ready to celebrate
You’re about to start hearing a lot about the number 250, if you haven’t already. Over the next 15 months, two important historic anniversaries will take place, one statewide and the other nationwide.
‘Trash’ or ‘Tribute’?: Community responds to statue plaque removal
A little over a week after the county removed what has been referred to as the “compromise plaques” from the Confederate memorial outside the Jackson County Library, residents showed up at the county commission’s April 15 meeting to speak on both sides of the issue, despite the lack of public discussion about the decision from commissioners.
Greening Up the Mountains continues focus on environment
This year’s Greening Up the Mountains, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, celebrates the 27th anniversary of the spring festival. True to its roots in the celebration of Earth Day and Appalachian heritage, the event continues to focus on local environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Small increase proposed for Haywood Community College budget
Haywood Community College is asking Haywood County commissioners for a modest increase in its operating budget for fiscal year 2025–26, citing inflationary pressures, employee retention initiatives, rising costs across multiple service categories and a surprising surge in enrollment.
