Jackson, Macon, Swain reach FRL agreement
Macon County has approved a new version of the Fontana Regional Library interlocal agreement that contains changes made by all three counties in the system. This marks the end of almost two years of controversy over the library agreement, libraries themselves and the merits of a regional library system.
Swain awarded $52 million for new middle school
Swain County is on its way to building a new middle school after securing $52 million in grant funds from the state.
“Hurricane Helene has reiterated the necessity of our students having access to safe, modern and structurally sound learning environments,” State Superintendent Catherine Truitt said in a press release.
Clampitt keeps 119th House District
The man still known for his protracted electoral feud with former Democratic Rep. Joe Sam Queen — the two faced off five times from 2012 through 2020, with Mike Clampitt winning three times — will continue to represent Jackson, Swain and Transylvania counties.
Newcomers win Swain County Commission seats
Swain County has elected two political newcomers to its board of commissioners.
Fall into Darnell Farms
The annual corn maze and pumpkin patch will continue through Oct. 31 at Darnell Farms in Bryson City.
Four candidates vie for two seats on Swain Commission
There are two seats open on the Swain County Board of Commissioners this year, and voters will see four candidates on the ballot. However, in a slightly unusual turn, two of those candidates are unaffiliated.
Espalin returns to Mountain Layers
Singer-songwriter Wyatt Espalin will hit the stage at 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City.
Unplugged Pub welcomes Jon Cox
Regional country/rock act The Jon Cox Band will perform as part of the “Halloween Costume Party” at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Unplugged Pub in Bryson City.
Do you like classic rock, country gold?
Haywood County rock/country act Outlaw Whiskey will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, at Unplugged Pub in Bryson City.
After Helene, North Carolina is racing to ensure a fair election
Amid the devastation and human suffering caused by Tropical Storm Helene, it’s only natural to lose sight of the fact that in less than 30 days, voters across the country will head to the polls to participate in a close, consequential election. Come hell or high water — Western North Carolina has had both — local election officials are working feverishly on a short timeline to ensure there are no disruptions to early voting, absentee balloting or Election Day activities.
