Local

Bennett charged with murder

Swain County Sheriff’s Office has arrested and charged a man with felony murder. On Wednesday, Aug. 12, the department responded to a shooting on Franklin Grove Road, according to Sheriff Curtis Cochran.

Elections Office prepares for the 2020 election

Like all things 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic is having its impact on the General Election. For Swain County, that means more absentee ballots and a need for more poll workers. As of 10 a.m.

Local retiree makes sweet weekly contribution to community

The other volunteers at The Giving Spoon refer to Sam Brandt as “Sam, the cookie man,” and the eight-dozen cookies he donates every Monday and Thursday go quickly. The Giving Spoon provides a free, hot meal to all who show up.

Community health program Swain Summits kicks off Sept. 1

In this busy life and during this unprecedented pandemic, it is difficult to find enough time for healthy activities, work, school, family and other obligations. In Swain County, we are making it a priority to help you find balance.

Swain High will reopen with new traffic pattern

Swain County High School students, faculty will make one more adjustment as classes begin Monday, Aug. 24. Adjustments have been widespread with precautions being taken against the coronavirus. Among the new things everyone who enters campus will adjust to is a daily temperature screening.

Understanding the foster care program in Swain County

Swain County, like the United States, has seen an increase in the number of children in the foster care program in recent years with much of that increase attributed to a rise in substance misuse particularly opioids.

High school construction meets hiccup

For most Swain County Schools students, the first day of classes will be Monday, Aug. 17. However, last week, the district announced that the high school wouldn’t begin classes until Aug. 24 due to construction delays.

Start of N.C. high school sports competitions delayed

The beginning of North Carolina high school sports season will be delayed for at least another ten days. After Gov.

Coronavirus cases steady in Swain County

The number of positive cases of COVID-19 has remained steady in Swain County, averaging about 10 or fewer new cases a week for the last month. The total number of cases in Swain County hit 100 last Wednesday. As of Monday, there were 106 total cases for the county and two deaths.

School board hears teacher support, opposition to fall plans

By Shaun Adams   During the Swain County Board of Education meeting on Monday, Aug. 3, Chairwoman Mellie Burns read the following statement.