Local

Crunching abs and numbers

News Staff
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Statewide shutdowns have affected most businesses, but many have been able to return to operation even if at a reduced capacity. Gym owners in North Carolina, however, remain restricted.
From left, Lisa Barker, who served as director of Swain/Qualla Safe, has retired. Laura Mason is the new executive director for the local nonprofit.

From left, Lisa Barker, who served as director of Swain/Qualla Safe, has retired. Laura Mason is the new executive director for the local nonprofit.

Safe director Lisa Barker hands off the reins

News Staff
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
After 26 years spent serving victims of domestic violence and sexual assault through Swain/Qualla Safe, Lisa Barker has retired from her post as director of the nonprofit. Barker came to Safe first as a volunteer while taking a college course in victimology.
Roper watching a game

Roper watching a game

Coach Ian Roper and a love for wrestling

News Staff
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Ian Roper’s first introduction to wrestling was as happenstance as Harry meeting Sally. A freshman basketball player at Smoky Mountain High School, his coach gave the team a rare afternoon off from practice.
Fireworks over the trees

Fireworks over the trees

Fourth of July subdued, but still a success

News Staff
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
The spectacular Independence Day fireworks show went on this year, organized by Swain County Chamber of Commerce and funded by the Swain County Tourism and Development Authority.
Mark Day speaks before the town board

Mark Day speaks before the town board

Patriots for Trump rally planned for Bryson City

News Staff
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
By Shuan Adams   Mark Day addressed the Bryson City Town Board of Alderman during public comment of the regular meeting on Tuesday, July 7. Day is organizing a Patriots for Trump rally to take place on Saturday, July 18 at 6 p.m. in Bryson City in front of the old courthouse.

School board discusses new social distancing measures

News Staff
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
By Shaun Adams   The Swain County Board of Education held its monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 30. Under discussion were several board policies and ongoing plans for how instruction will be conducted in the fall. The school district is awaiting more guidance from the state, and Gov.

Commissioners appoint three new TDA members

News Staff
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
In a special session held Thursday, June 25, the Swain County Board of Commissioners appointed three new members to the Swain County Tourism and Development Authority and adopted rules to see its meetings run more smoothly.
Toby with softball team players

Toby with softball team players

Toby Burrell: organized, cool, competitive

News Staff
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
Thwack… The ball hit the exterior of the oil tank, hopped across the ground like a critter through tall grass and nestled into young Toby Burrell’s baseball glove. Then, he pulled it out and chucked it again, and again…Thwack!