Local

BOE renews mask policy, introduces test kits

COVID cases in Mitchell County schools spiked recently but dropped when schools were closed during Winter Storm Izzy, Superintendent Chad Calhoun told the Board of Education during its regular meeting on Thursday, Jan. 27.

Bidding period open for field turf project

The first steps toward putting artificial turf on the Mitchell High football field are in motion. Executive Director of Athletics Kim Hodshon detailed the genesis of the project to the Mitchell County Board of Education during its regular meeting on Thursday, Jan. 27.

Action resumes regarding ongoing new school project

After an extended period of stillness, there is again action regarding a new school in Mitchell County. The Mitchell County Board of Education during its regular meeting on Thursday, Jan.

Winter Storm Izzy blasts Mitchell

Even days after Winter Storm Izzy blew through Mitchell County, many locals were still dealing with snow and ice. The storm cruised through the area early on Sunday, Jan. 16, dumping snow, ice and sleet on much of Mitchell County for more than 24 hours.

Vaccines, boosters remain critical in COVID fight, Creek says

With COVID cases remaining high in the tri-counties, Toe River Health District Director Diane Creek urges locals to do their part to slow the spread. Getting tested, Creek said, is a critical step to containing COVID.

NC primary could be delayed to June

The already delayed 2022 primary election may be held June 7, pending approval from Gov. Roy Cooper. The NC General Assembly this past week voted to delay the primary to June 7 and the choice now moves to Cooper, who could veto the move.

New owner, same focus for Aldridge Eye

For the first time in four decades, Aldridge Eye Institute of Burnsville is under new ownership. Founder Dr. Chuck Alrdidge gives way to new owner Dr. Thuc Moore, who joined the practice in 2019. Moore was born in Australia and grew up in South Carolina.

Local NASCAR legend spotlighted on Jan. 31

The Mitchell County Board of Commissioners in February 2020 designated Jan. 31 as Waddell Wilson Day locally to honor the Bakersville native who was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame on the same day in 2020.

Multi-vehicle wreck injures 3

A multi-vehicle accident shut down a portion of NC-226 and injured three around 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 12.

MANNA FoodBank selects Neal as next leader

MANNA FoodBank this past week announced that Claire Neal will be the organization’s next CEO, becoming the sixth leader in almost four decades of the organization’s existence.