Local

A groundbreaking moment

Eight years later, ground has been broken on Mitchell County’s newest school.

A pair of little Cupids

The Greens at Spruce Pine (formerly The Brian Center) was a little more joyful this past week during Valentine’s Day thanks to the efforts of two local girls. McKenzie and Jaycie Johnson teamed up to hand out nearly 100 cards and flowers to elderly residents to ensure they weren’t lonely.

Chamber board moves to terminate Visitor Center lease May 1

The future of the Mitchell County Visitor Center is in flux after the Mitchell County Chamber Board announced this past week its plans to terminate its current lease with the National Park Service for the space that houses the center near the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Cook speaks out on subdivision ordinance

Mitchell County’s subdivision ordinance, which went into effect this past September, has recently generated a buzz on social media among area residents concerned about how it affects them.

Commissioners OK resolution for partisan school board races

The Mitchell County Board of Commissioners during a regular meeting earlier this month unanimously approved the adoption of a resolution to create primary elections for the Mitchell County Board of Education, paving the way for partisan races for seats on the board.

Penland set to open its doors for annual Open House

It’s time for the return of the Penland School of Craft Community Open House. The public is welcome on campus on Saturday, Feb. 25 from 1-5 p.m. to engage in creative activities alongside trained artists.

New program provides school-based dental services

Poor oral health can have a detrimental effect on a child’s quality of life, school performance and success later in life, so Mountain Community Health Partnership is offering school-based dental services to kids in Mitchell and Yancey schools in 2023.

Mitchell students play in Mars Hill Honor Band

Five members of the Mitchell Mountaineers Marching Band were recently selected to perform in the regional Mars Hill Honor Band.

Local TDA sets trio of goals, holds public meetings

The North Carolina General Assembly this past year passed House Bill 1057, paving the way for the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners to create a Travel and Tourism Development Authority Board responsible for managing the proceeds of the area’s occupancy tax.

PERFECTION

The Harris boys’ basketball team is the undefeated champion of the Western Highlands Middle School Conference. The Blue Devils (19-0) wrapped up their undefeated season with a 40-37 come-from-behind win over Cane River in the conference championship.