Jackson leaders show their hand

Written by
Tuesday, 13/05/2025

To the Editor:

Have you noticed how quietly our basic freedoms can disappear? Right now in Jackson County, a small group of commissioners is on the verge of dismantling our entire library system — not because it’s failing us, but because it’s succeeding at something they fear: exposing people to ideas beyond a single worldview. 

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Jackson commissioners likely violated law by removing plaque

Written by
Wednesday, 23/04/2025

In response to a public records request made by The Smoky Mountain News, Jackson County Manager Kevin King revealed that commissioners not only failed to discuss in any official meeting removing plaques placed on the controversial “Sylva Sam” Confederate statue at the old courthouse in 2020, they also failed to document any deliberations — likely violating state sunshine laws.  

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Jackson, Swain refuse proposed FRL agreement changes

Written by
Tuesday, 14/05/2024

Neither Jackson County nor Swain County commissions have agreed to approve the changes Macon County proposed to the Fontana Regional Library agreement, citing legal and logistical concerns.

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King named Jackson County manager

Written by
Wednesday, 14/02/2024

The Jackson County Board of Commissioners has hired Kevin King as the new manager for Jackson County. 

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Partner content: What Does “Local” Food Mean?
Ask Leah! The Ingles Dietitian
Partner content: What Does “Local” Food Mean?

Often, I hear terms like “buy local” and “eat local foods”. But what does “local” mean? There is no legal definition of “local”, and it may depend on who is using this term and their personal opinion of what “local” means. 

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Partner content: Treats to Satisfy the Craving for Sweets
Ask Leah! The Ingles Dietitian
Partner content: Treats to Satisfy the Craving for Sweets

You need a sweet treat but don't want to add too many calories or carbohydrates/sugar to your meals ...what can you do?

Here are 10 ideas to satisfy that craving without going overboard and that contain nutrients that will contribute to health more so than just having candy or a pastry: 

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Partner content: Gluten-Free Resources
Ask Leah! The Ingles Dietitian
Partner content: Gluten-Free Resources

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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Partner Content: Diabetes-friendly Snacks
Ask Leah! The Ingles Dietitian
Partner Content: Diabetes-friendly Snacks

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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