Growth is inevitable, how we grow is a choice

Written by
Wednesday, 29/04/2026

I appreciate my colleague taking the time to explain his vote (“Why I voted to annex Queen’s Farm,” April 22 SMN) to annex Queen’s Farm. These are the kinds of decisions that deserve a full and open discussion. 

We agree on many of the challenges facing our community. Growth is happening. Affordable housing is scarce. And we have a responsibility to provide services without placing an unnecessary burden on taxpayers.

Where we differ is on what this decision represents. 

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Partner content: What To Do With....A head of cabbage (purple or green)

1. Grate or use a mandolin for thin slices and make coleslaw.

2. Cut into wedges, drizzle with olive oil and roast in the oven until slightly browned. Top with crispy bacon and blue cheese crumbles and a drizzle of balsamic syrup. 

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Partner content: Spring Cleanup and Land Prep Made Easy with Haynes Tree & Excavation

As spring takes hold across Western North Carolina, property owners are stepping outside to assess winter’s toll — downed limbs, overgrowth, drainage issues, and land projects waiting to begin. For many in Haywood County and beyond, that seasonal reset starts with a call to Haynes Tree & Excavation.

Based in Waynesville and serving nearby communities like Clyde, Maggie Valley, and Canton, the family-owned company has become a go-to resource for everything from storm cleanup to full-scale land preparation.

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Thursday, May 7 • 3pm-6pm

Ingles Markets — Oteen — 1141 Tunnel Road

Complimentary Samples (Limited Availability) 

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Ingles Markets is proud to work with local food and beverage makers and farmers. You’ll find local and regional products throughout our stores from in-season fruits and vegetables in our Produce Department, artisan breads from City Bakery and Annie’s Breads in the bakery, local meat and sausage from Hickory Nut Gap Farms, trout from Sunburst Trout Farm, snacks from Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn and Asheville Pretzel, local beers, wine and cider like Flat Rock Cider, Biltmore Wines, French Broad Brewing (and so many more!), flowering plants from Van Wingerden ….. even our Laura Lynn milk comes from some local dairy farmers! 

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