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. 

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. 

With the impending sunset of grants that have sustained the Community Care Program in Sylva Police Department, town officials have made clear that continuing the program will be a top budget priority. 

The Haywood County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council announced $182,420 in funds available for 2025-27 from the Department of Public Safety for services for juvenile court-involved youth in Haywood County.

To the Editor:

When it comes to picking leaders, you’d think the minimum qualifications would include experience, integrity and a commitment to the public good. But here we are, staring down the barrel of Donald Trump’s nomination for FBI Director: Kash Patel.

This isn’t just another bad idea — it’s a threat to families across North Carolina and beyond. Sen. Thom Tillis has a choice to make: stand with the people of North Carolina or enable Trump’s dangerous agenda.

Let’s talk about Patel’s “qualifications.” Spoiler: there aren’t any. He’s never worked in law enforcement and has no experience managing an agency as large and critical as the FBI. What Patel does have is a track record of loyalty to Trump. That’s the real reason he’s in the running — not because he’s ready to lead but because he could weaponize the FBI against Trump’s so-called “enemies.” In fact, Patel authored a literal “enemies list.” If confirmed, he could use the power of the FBI to carry out Trump’s personal vendettas, not protect North Carolinians.

This isn’t just politics — it’s personal for working families in North Carolina. The FBI plays a critical role here, from tackling drug trafficking that devastates communities in Asheville to addressing cybersecurity threats in the Research Triangle. As someone who has had first-hand experience with cyber-attacks, I know firsthand how critical it is to have a competent FBI director who’ll focus on the real issues affecting North Carolinians.

I also think about how law enforcement impacts our communities every day. As a council member in the Village of Forest Hills and also as a parent, I worry about the safety of my community amid the increase in fentanyl and other drug trafficking. Do we really want someone in charge who thinks the FBI headquarters should be turned into a “Museum of the Deep State?” 

Patel’s nomination isn’t just unqualified — it’s dangerous. Under his leadership, the FBI could target progressive organizations and activists, leaving vulnerable communities in the crosshairs. North Carolina’s history shows the need for fair and impartial law enforcement, not a political henchman who could turn our democracy into a playground for MAGA extremism.

Sen. Tillis has often talked about the importance of the rule of law. Here’s his chance to prove he means it. North Carolinians deserve an FBI director who’ll prioritize our safety and security — not someone who’ll spend their time pursuing Trump’s paranoid fantasies. Sen. Tillis, it’s time to take a stand. Vote no on confirming Kash Patel to protect one of our nation’s most important institutions.

Nilofer Couture

Cullowhee

A group of law enforcement officers, elected officials and concerned citizens is renewing its years-long effort to get a series of new laws through the General Assembly this year. 

Two months after former Maggie Valley Police Chief Russ Gilliland filed a lawsuit against the town for wrongful termination, the town has responded by requesting either a dismissal or a jury trial. 

The day before Thanksgiving is sometimes referred to as “Blackout Wednesday,” a nod to the fact that it is one of the biggest drinking days of the year, a day when old friends and family are back in town with a holiday ahead to recover. 

In some areas, Thanksgiving Eve is one of the biggest drinking days of the year, and it is known the kick-off to the festive holiday season. 

A 2017 study by UPSERVE restaurant management, states that beer sales increased 270%, liquor sales by 114%, and “growler” sales by a staggering 658% on the night before Thanksgiving.

To the Editor:

Our EMS and fire departments, law-enforcement and many in serving military units have come to our region’s rescue. They  and caring ordinary neighbors who have put on their boots and gloves and helped so many people in desperate need are our heroes.