To the Editor:

Since 1945 the world has been more peaceful and prosperous than any other time in history. That is because of American’s leadership role in the world under both Republican and Democratic administrations. We were an America committed to the rule of law at home and a universal mission abroad to constantly work to make the world freer and more democratic, more decent and a healthier place for more people.

Hands off Haywood will host a rally and speakers beginning at noon on Saturday, June 14 at the Historic Haywood County Court House, 285 Main St. in Waynesville.

In recognition of Flag Day, rally organizers have purchased small American flags to distribute to participants. 

For the second year in a row, Macon County Schools will request funding from county commissioners to bridge the gap in funding for free school meals for all K-12 students. But with data trending downward, it’s unclear whether the school system will be able to continue its free meal program for more than two more years.  

Joining millions across the globe, thousands in Western North Carolina rallied this past weekend, demonstrating against the policies of President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk while expressing grave concerns about the future of myriad federal programs and services. Their message? “We want people to know that we are not going anywhere.”

As an attorney, I have direct experience and the unique point of view that comes from working with the Social Security Administration daily and remain in awe at its ability to serve millions of Americans with a wide array of needs.

To the Editor:

I am a retired military officer (veteran); senior citizen; middle class; have grandchildren that are part of the LBGQ+ community; live in a rural area; have a grandchild still in school; and, I am a female.

It had been a warm spring day that finally gave way to twilight of cobalt-grey, sharpening the flashing red and blue police lights slashing through dusk restless and unyielding. Demonstrators waving signs and banging rhythmically on locked glass doors, their chants pulsed through the cool evening air. 

“Save our democracy.” 

In what could very well be a sneak preview of his in-person town hall in Asheville later today, Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-Henderson) abruptly walked away from a podium in Canton’s Sorrells Street Park and refused to answer questions about federal cuts to programs and services.

To the Editor:

The Franklin Social Security office has been closed. It was the only such office west of Asheville. It handled programs such as Social Security, Retirement, SSI, Medicaid and Disability Benefits.

To the Editor:

I want to let Sen. Tillis, Sen. Budd and Rep. Chuck Edwards know that it’s difficult to understand why Congress expects me to pay federal taxes.