Regional

Public service, kindness part of Penland’s legacy

By Becky Long Publisher   Clay County bid farewell to its longest serving county commissioner Monday morning. Hundreds of friends, relatives and supporters showed up for visitation and his Monday morning funeral service. Dwight Hunter Penland, 65, died Wednesday, March 11.

Looking to November as primary season ends

By Lorraine Bennett Staff Writer   Former N.C. Governor Roy Cooper and former N.C. Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley, survivors of recent primary elections, are preparing a November face-off promising to be decisive in whether the Tarheel State will continue red, blue or purple.

Spring Forward

Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2026: IRS reminds taxpayers to watch out for dangerous threats

The Internal Revenue Service today, Thursday, March 5, announced its annual Dirty Dozen list of tax scams for 2026 that threaten the tax and financial information of taxpayers, businesses, and tax professionals.

Cheoah and Tusquitee Ranger Districts to begin prescribed fires

The Nantahala National Forest plans to conduct prescribed fire operations on the Cheoah and Tusquitee Ranger Districts this week, pending all required approvals. This work will likely continue through the weekend as weather conditions allow.

Overview of Election Day voting

According to the N.C. Board of Elections, on Election Days, registered voters in North Carolina may vote at their assigned polling place. This is different than early voting, where eligible individuals may cast a ballot at any early voting site in their county.

Local shines on American Idol show

Staff Cherokee Scout   Local resident Braden Rumfelt let his voice do the talking Monday night during his audition on American Idol and he left with a golden ticket. Despite any nerves that may have been present, countrynow.

TVA comment period extended

By Marcia Barnes Staff Writer   The Tennessee Valley Authority announced last week they are extending the commenting period on the Shooting Creek transmission project.

Winter Storm Warning until 07:00PM Saturday

Winter Storm Warning until 07:00PM Saturday * WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches, with locally higher amounts possible over the higher mountain peaks. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. * WHERE...In North Carolina, Cherokee and Clay Counties.

Rumfelt's on American Idol

Tune in at 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2 on ABC American Idol. #Americanidol #bradenrumfelt @bradenrumfelt @therumfeltfamily @kellenrumfelt @chrisrumfelt @crystalrumfelt @calistarumfelt @Lukebryan @Carrieunderwood @Lionelrichie