Swain County’s economy relies heavily on the tourism industry from outdoor recreation businesses to downtown retailers, restaurants and the railroad. 

Two Republicans and two Democrats are vying for two open seats on the Swain County Board of Commissioners this year. 

The Coronavirus Pandemic hasn’t stopped the Swain County Tourism Development Authority from having another record-setting year in occupancy tax revenue. 

NC MedAssist is partnering with Swain County Health Department to host a Mobile Free Pharmacy event, providing residents in need with free over-the-counter (OTC) medication. Such items include cough and cold medicine, vitamins, allergy medication, first aid supplies, etc. This partnership comes at a crucial time, when remaining healthy and stopping the spread of germs is more essential than ever.

Joseph William Lomas, 25, of Cherokee, died while being detained at the Swain County Detention Center on Aug. 28. 

Western Carolina University has obtained a rare photographic glimpse of Bryson City and Swain County in the early 1900s, thanks to a recent donation to Hunter Library’s renowned Special and Digital Collections. 

Swain County might still be led by men, but women are key contributors in the day-to-day operations of the county government. 

Swain County will be operating this fall under a hybrid of in-person and remote learning. Parents can choose Plan B, which includes in-person instruction and remote learning or Plan C, which is entirely remote learning. 

Seven counties in Western North Carolina have the opportunity to band together and receive money for affordable housing through the Southwestern Commission. As of June 15, several counties have signed on to make up the Southwestern NC HOME Consortium. 

Swain County commissioners are going to be giving more consideration to who they appoint to county boards after hearing a long list of grievances from a member of the Tourism Development Authority.