Regional

Madison Cawthorn, of Buncombe County, speaks to Swain County Republicans on why he's running for U.S. Congress District 11.

Madison Cawthorn, of Buncombe County, speaks to Swain County Republicans on why he's running for U.S. Congress District 11.

A word from the candidates: Republicans

With the primary just around the corner, the Swain County Republican Party hosted several candidates during its regular meeting on Monday, Jan. 20 at the United Community Bank meeting room before about 20 voters.
A landslide across 19/74 closed the road Saturday

A landslide across 19/74 closed the road Saturday

Landslide closes 19/74 in Nantahala Gorge

A landslide on Saturday morning, Jan. 4 closed US 19/74 in the Nantahala Gorge near Hewitts Road for much of the day. North Carolina Department of Transportation reported that the large mudslide, occurring around 7:30 a.m. involved no vehicles.
Mike Lackey owned and operated the Bryson City and Sylva Burger Kings for over 30 years.

Mike Lackey owned and operated the Bryson City and Sylva Burger Kings for over 30 years.

Former BK franchiser wraps up career

Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com   A burger and fries is synonymous with American culture. Bruce Daniels has purchased both the Sylva and Bryson City locations. Mike Lackey, who sold the franchises, built his career in burger and fries.
Marianne Martinez, executive director for the regional nonprofit Vecinos, was the guest speaker at Bryson City Rotary Club this past Thursday.

Marianne Martinez, executive director for the regional nonprofit Vecinos, was the guest speaker at Bryson City Rotary Club this past Thursday.

Vecinos providing primary care to farm workers

When the average American is sick, they call their primary care doctor. For the average farmworker, that’s a task that would be easier said than done. That’s where Vecinos Farmworker Health Program comes in.
If Rails Could Talk cover

If Rails Could Talk cover

Ravensford, Smokemont history comes alive

Carroll C. Jones Special to Smoky Mountain Times   Gerald J. Ledford and Ronald C. Sullivan, local authors and historians, released a fifth railroading and logging book in their “If Rails Could Talk” series this summer.

Man sentenced for meth trafficking in area

On Thursday, Nov. 21, U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger sentenced Frank Michael Lucas, 33, of Sylva, to 160 months in prison on drug trafficking charges, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

Bridge Repair Requires I-40 West Closure in Gorge

JONATHAN CREEK – Officials for the N.C. Department of Transportation anticipate closing both westbound lanes of Interstate 40 between the U.S. 276 interchange at Exit 20 and the Tennessee state line for up to five consecutive days during a stretch in November.
A landscape view with Smokies and fall color

A landscape view with Smokies and fall color

Autumn in the Smokies

These photos, taken by Teddy Greene, and Greg Passmore, were taken in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park over this past weekend. The leaf color was late this year, but seemed to turn brilliant overnight after the area saw some rain. 
News

News

Rural counties getting another $15 million for broadband

After years of frustration, much of Macon County may soon have access to high-speed internet, and the expansion could continue thanks to a $15 million grant from the state. HB387 passed the Senate on Tuesday, and bill co-sponsor Rep. Kevin Corbin said he expects the governor to sign it.

Help available for ACA enrollment

Open enrollment opens Nov. 1 for insurance under the Affordable Care Act, and there is help available in negotiating the various levels of coverage and pricing.