Local

Huge campaign sign stolen

In any given election cycle there’s bound to a few roadside election signs that go missing. The alarm went up for Swain County Democratic Party, however, after an eight-foot by four-foot sign on Veterans Boulevard went missing.

Town closer to fix for commercial garbage troubles

The bulk of discussion at Bryson City Town Board of Alderman’s meeting on Monday night, Oct. 19, was dedicated to how the town can develop a system to best address businesses that produce a lot of garbage. The discussion is a part of the ongoing process to review the town’s ordinances.

Swain/Qualla Safe meeting increased need during pandemic

COVID-19 has shaken things up worldwide. In our little community of Swain County, this has presented challenges to local nonprofits, such as funding and being able to connect clients with resources.

Attendance a challenge for cross country practices

Cross Country is one of the few sports that does not require human contact, yet the Swain runners have been abiding by the new NCHSAA schedule and guidelines like everyone else.

Lady Devils volleyball gears up for tough season

After losing several key players to graduation, Swain coach Kayla McMahan was facing a transitional year in 2020. The process of bringing her younger players up to speed will be accelerated by a condensed schedule that leaves nowhere to hide. There are no cupcakes, no filler games.

Early voting begins today

Early voting begins today for the 2020 General Election. One-stop locations in Swain County are Birdtown Rec Center at Birdtown Road, Cherokee, and Swain Board of Elections Office locate at 1422 Hwy 19 South, Bryson City. One-stop early voting will be held through Saturday, Oct. 31.

Flood plain discussed by county leaders

On Thursday, Oct. 8, Swain County Board of Commissioners continued discussion on a flood plain variance request in Deep Creek that they tabled last month.

School board meets teachers, hears updates

On Monday, Oct. 12, Swain County Board of Education heard COVID-19 updates and about the district’s academic progress. Mark Sale, Swain Schools superintendent, also introduced new teachers and welcomed them to the Swain family, and invited each one to introduce themselves.

Bars, movie theaters can reopen under Phase 3

North Carolina moved into Phase 3 of lifting COVID-19 restrictions on Friday, Oct. 2 beginning at 5 p.m. The latest restrictions lifted mean bars, movie theaters and outdoor entertainment centers can reopen, albeit under restrictions.

Pandemic equals inventory setbacks for local car & truck dealership

There’s something about a car lot full of shiny new cars and trucks that pulls at the capitalist impulses in all of us. The trouble, lately, is that the car lot is looking pretty bare.