News Headlines
Macon Commission changes rules on public comment
In a split vote during its March 11 meeting, Macon County Commissioners decided to reduce the time limit for people speaking during public comment. The decision was made to allow more people to speak during the monthly, 45-minute public comment sessions.
Edwards dodges questions on Medicare, Franklin Social Security office closing
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.
Maggie Valley residents look to de-annex from town
A small group of property owners in Maggie Valley are taking advantage of Rep. Mark Pless’ offer to de-annex them from the town, with at least one citing development restrictions and others saying they’re not getting what they’re paying for.
The state of JCSO: Overdoses decline, detention center at max capacity
Jackson County Sheriff Doug Farmer gave his annual report to his county commissioners last week, and while overdose deaths have declined dramatically, the agency is facing difficulties housing inmates in a crowded jail.
Congress may mandate AM radios in every car, for safety and security
A bipartisan collaboration to bolster critical communication resources during natural disasters is gaining momentum in Congress after lessons learned during the devastation of Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina last year.
Jackson County one step closer to partisan school board elections
On March 6 Jackson County Representative Mike Clampitt filed a local bill in the North Carolina House of Representatives to make the Jackson County Board of Education election a partisan race. If the bill passes, partisan elections for the school board would begin with the 2026 election.
General Assembly considers fourth Helene relief bill
Nearly six months after Hurricane Helene killed 106 people and caused more than $60 billion in damage across Western North Carolina, the General Assembly is set to approve another storm-related relief bill.
Commissioners address library security
A Jackson County commissioner brought up the issue of library security during the commission’s March 4 meeting, citing safety concerns for staff at the Jackson County Library in Sylva.
INDEPENDENT, AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM
Do you have celiac disease or do you follow a gluten-free diet for another health condition?
Did you know there is a Facebook group for that? I set up this group over 10 years ago and it now has over 1000 members. Look for “Gluten-Free Asheville and WNC” on Facebook.
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Question: My father-in-law is now living with us, and he has Type 2 diabetes, but he also has a sweet tooth. Should I be buying sugar-free candy and cookies for him or is there a better option?
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Question: My mother-in-law is elderly and doesn’t want to cook at all and only wants to microwave food for herself. What are some ways I can make sure she’s still eating healthy?
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