Local officials feel good about Pactiv mill parcel sale in Canton
Apprehension over the fate of a huge industrial parcel in the heart of Canton is now transitioning to cautious optimism.
Haywood TDA reacts to Helene problems with grants, budget cut
Two days after Haywood Chamber President and CEO David Francis announced the creation of a small business grant recovery program for businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene, the Haywood County Tourism Development authority jumped on board — in a big way — while tempering its own expectations of what the post-Helene landscape looks like.
Latest flood relief bill leaves businesses underwater
The Republican-led North Carolina General Assembly took its second step in flood recovery on Oct. 24, designating from the state’s $4.4 billion Rainy Day Fund an additional $604 million in funding and resources for disaster recovery in response to Hurricane Helene — far less than the $3.9 billion the state’s Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper wanted, and with little real help to businesses that can’t afford to take out more loans.
Long road to recovery ahead for Waynesville’s post-Helene businesses
A region largely dependent on the tourism industry is now asking a question not heard since the COVID-19 pandemic — how to support retail and hospitality businesses that depend on foot traffic while respecting public safety guidelines and strained infrastructure across the region.
Developer still pursuing Pactiv parcel despite Helene damage
Hurricane Helene has dealt serious damage to Pactiv Evergreen’s shuttered Canton paper mill, but the St. Louis-based demolition and development company owner trying to buy the 185-acre parcel remains undeterred.
Haywood awards nearly $6 million for affordable housing developments
Haywood County commissioners approved two funding recommendations from its Affordable Housing Development Committee that will increase affordable housing stock at no cost to Haywood County taxpayers.
Local leader to serve as Haywood Chamber of Commerce President
The Haywood County Chamber of Commerce announced the appointment of David Francis as its new president.
Folded: chronicling the closure of Pactiv Evergreen’s Canton paper mill
History will whisper through the mountain mists that once upon a time, Pactiv Evergreen’s paper mill in Canton stood as a symbol of industry and economic prosperity for generations. But behind its towering façade, the specter of mismanagement and malfeasance eventually led to a botched closing announcement, a health care coverage crisis and more than a thousand workers helplessly watching their good-paying jobs evaporate like morning dew in the midday summer sun.
Substantial economic development planning effort underway in Haywood
Calling the last decade “a period of intensive and dynamic change” for Haywood County, strategic planning consultants in conjunction with county economic development administrators will produce a late spring report for commissioners identifying local priorities, challenges and concerns augmented by the closure of the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill in Canton last year.
2023 A Look Back: Hometown heroes award
When Pactiv Evergreen announced it would close its 115-year-old paper mill in Canton earlier this year, local leaders had to deal with a host of issues: the plight of the workers and their families, their health care coverage, declining school enrollment, pollution and the future of the site itself.
INDEPENDENT, AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM
Where do you get your food inspiration for cooking or baking?
• If you’re a “Boomer” (born between 1946-1964) you’re likely to have a favorite cookbook or seek out new cookbooks that you can buy, check out from the library, or download to a device.
Read MoreThis time of year, we often see dramatic and often negative stories about food and nutrition. A few things to remember:
• Read beyond the headlines — Headlines are meant to attract your attention and get “clicks”. Before you react or make snap judgements, be sure to read the actual article.
Read MoreDid you know that as part of my job for Ingles Markets, I do free talks and presentations for non-profit groups? I can do these in person or virtually.
Read MoreQuestion: My husband’s favorite dish is a Cheddar Chicken with broccoli and rice casserole. Are there better choices with rice to make this healthier?
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