Originially published by The Mountaineer Haywood County ranks in the top five most popular counties for trout fishing in North Carolina, which contributes $1.38 billion annually to the state’s economy, according to a comprehensive study that analyzed the economic impact of trout fishing. The newly-released study was developed by the […]
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Rain won’t stop this party, NC Smokies Ice Fest continues despite rainy weather
Originally published by The Mountaineer Ice sculptures dotted the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds creating vast opportunities for photos and fun activities for kids. Though the second annual NC Smokies Ice Fest was threatened by bad weather, it remained a success in the eyes of the attendees. Adults and children alike […]
N.C. 107: The economic impact of the work
Originally published by The Sylva Herald. America runs on Dunkin and Sylva lost the only one in town. Dunkin Donut s closed shop in November and more businesses will be closing permanently or moving to a new location soon. With all of this change, Sylva’s economy is expected to take […]
N.C. 107: Pain, but eventual gain
Originally published by The Sylva Herald Businesses along Highway 107 lay stark and empty as the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) prepares to widen the route between Cullowhee and Sylva. Graffiti coats the sides of once well-loved buildings and community staples as many businesses have closed or relocated to […]
“We are still here”: Western Carolina University remains a Cherokee place
Originally published in The Western Carolina Journalist November is Native American Heritage Month, but it’s not just a heritage for the Cherokee people of Western North Carolina. It’s a living, vibrant culture. There are 547 federally recognized tribes in the United States. Native Americans were not automatically afforded U.S. citizenship […]
WCU alumna, Cherokee Center director named EBCI Secretary of Education – Press Release
CULLOWHEE – Sky Sampson, director of Western Carolina University’s Cherokee Center and alumna, has accepted the position of Secretary of Education for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Sampson assumed her role Oct. 23. “In my role at WCU, I worked closely with the tribe and I am excited to […]
Keeping an eye to the sky in Cullowhee
Birding, as it is formally known, is gaining popularity within the greater Tuckasegee area. Topher Stephens, a Caney Fork local, along with Sylva mayor Dave Nestler set out to create a community where they could enjoy their shared interest in birds. Together they created Tuck Birders, a club with a […]
Deep dives in Jackson County
Jackson County is currently constructing a 30,000 square-foot aquatic facility at the recreation center on Tilley Creek Road in Cullowhee. The facility will provide service to county residents who currently must travel long distances to swim. Construction is expected to be complete by spring 2024 at a cost of $22 […]
Fall weather stifles turnout for the CMN motorcycle ride
In the crisp morning hours, bikers around Sylva joined together to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals Saturday, Sept. 23. The ride started in the parking lot of the Sylva Walmart and went through the Blue Ridge Parkway. Leo Craig, the organizer, has hosted the CMN bike […]
Tuckasegee River has more than just garbage
Originally published in The Western Carolina Journalist In the early afternoon, with mist still clinging to the waters of the river, hundreds of WCU students descend to the banks of the Tuckasegee river for the Tuck River Cleanup. Throughout the day, thousands of pounds of trash are removed. Digging through the muck and […]