News Headlines
Here to help: Waynesville police social worker paying dividends
In 2020, following the murder of George Floyd, there was significant public outcry calling for police reform. Among the reforms people wanted to see most was the use of social workers on certain calls, people with no badge and no gun who could deal with someone in the throes of a mental health crisis.
State auditor launches Hurricane Helene dashboard to boost transparency
North Carolina State Auditor Dave Boliek has unveiled a new Hurricane Helene dashboard, an online tool designed to track relief efforts and spending in the wake of the devastating storm.
Jackson Community School will remain in current location
After weeks of consideration and input from public, students and staff, the Jackson County Board of Education has decided to keep Jackson Community School in its current location and has committed to recruiting more students to the school and revamping campus offerings.
Unidxs spreads message of unity
Amid changing federal regulations regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement, one Jackson County group is making the rounds at public meetings in an effort to remind both elected officials and community members that it is there to support the Hispanic community.
Peace Conference returns to Lake Junaluska
Learn to build bridges of peace, share strategies for peace and be a peacemaker at the upcoming SEJ Peace Conference set for April 4-6 at Lake Junaluska.
DOGE website says Franklin’s Social Security office to close
Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency has been eager to propose federal budget cuts that purportedly save taxpayers money, but as the proposed cuts trickle down to the neighborhood level — like closing the U.S. Social Security Administration office in Franklin — residents are just as eager to show their disapproval.
Camino club aims to support Hispanic student body
Editor’s note: While it is standard SMN and AP style to use last names when referring to people in articles, this story refers to students by their first names.
The Spanish word “camino” means road or path in English, and according to the student leaders of a new club at Franklin High School, that is exactly what they want their group to be.
SBA extends deadline for disaster loans in North Carolina
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is extending the physical damage loan deadline for disaster declarations affected by the 2024 federal funding lapse. The new deadline to apply is April 27, 2025.
Governor appoints new WNC judge
Haywood County attorney Bill Jones has been appointed to fill a vacant District Court seat in the judicial district made up of the state’s seven westernmost counties. The appointment was announced late last week in a press release sent out by Gov. Josh Stein’s office.
