News Headlines
Helene victims still waiting for Whatley
Scenic Chimney Rock has historically been an out-of-the-way place, nestled tightly against the Broad River in a narrow valley between lush, towering peaks that peer down at nearby Lake Lure. It’s always been difficult to get there — especially now, with most roads still closed 11 months after Hurricane Helene — but you’ll know you’re heading in the right direction up Highway 9 by the near-ceaseless stream of dump trucks coming down and out.
As Chimney Rock shops reopen, shopkeepers recount what it took to get there
As you enter Chimney Rock, you will see bulldozers and construction workers and other visceral reminders of Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic impact. But as you absorb the village’s incredible landscape and people, you’ll notice shops newly reconstructed and others half-filled with merchandise, a proud proclamation of their survival.
COVID mounts late summer surge amid onset of flu season
The last year has brought an unusual pattern in COVID surges.
Typically, the virus is worst during the winter with an additional summer surge beginning around June. Last winter, there were fewer infections, hospitalizations and deaths, and while this year’s summer surge has been delayed, it’s now being felt across the region.
Swain Commission Chair abruptly resigns
Swain County Commissioner Chairman Kevin Seagle has announced his resignation, effective Aug. 31. Seagle.
Ahead of the announcement, Seagle was absent from the board’s Aug. 19 meeting, cited “unfounded accusations” and “personal attacks” in a letter detailing his decision “with a heavy heart but a clear conscience” dated Aug. 15.
WCU professor to speak at civics meeting
Indivisible CommonGround WNC will host its August meeting on Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.
Davis exit marks another shift in NC-11 Dem race
Weeks after a bitter dispute over a Democratic gala laid bare divisions in Western North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, the field is shifting again.
Former student alleges abuse by longtime Jackson County band instructor
A former Smoky Mountain High School student has come forward with allegations of inappropriate behavior by her longtime band teacher, saying he groomed her as a teenager and left her struggling in silence for years.
Swain County withheld commission chair resignation letter before announcement
Swain County Commission Chairman Kevin Seagle’s resignation was made public after an Aug. 19 meeting with a letter released by County Manager Lottie Barker — a letter requested by The Smoky Mountain News the previous day that Barker had in her possession but failed to provide.
Jackson County Schools removes staff member pending investigation
After reports that a Jackson County Public Schools staff member was escorted from school property Aug. 21, JCPS Public Information Officer Shaneka Allen issued the following statement to The Smoky Mountain News:
