"Buzzworthy Events: The Holler Debut, Lake Junaluska Cleanup, Habitat for Humanity's Chestnut Park Grant"

Steve Sutton Fest - 2025 Recap Video | Haywood County, NC

"Top Picks: Local Events Sparking Buzz"

Haywood County is springing into action with events throughout Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Canton, Clyde, and Lake Junaluska.

Fat Burger Month delivers bold burger creations at restaurants all March, while the Lavender Ball at Haywood Community College on March 12 offers an elegant fundraiser for student support.

R.A.D. Women’s Self-Defense Classes empower women with safety skills, and Life Church in Waynesville hosts a lively Celebration Sunday on March 22.

The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre presents a full lineup of stage productions, and the Crown & Thistle Tea Room offers themed parties and creative gatherings.

Public library branches and Lake Junaluska feature ongoing seasonal programs, with Maggie Valley buzzing with music and outdoor activities year-round.

Canton and Clyde continue to provide fresh recreation and community happenings.

Locals are invited to discover, attend, and share upcoming events — keeping Haywood County vibrant this spring.

The annual Lake Junaluska Cleanup Day took place on March 7, with volunteers taking part in clearing debris from the shorelines and entrance roads to the lake.

Organized by the Junaluskans, a group of residents and lake enthusiasts, the event aimed to maintain the cleanliness and pristine condition of the area.

Partnering with Lake Junaluska Staff, Haywood County, and Haywood County Waterways, the volunteers worked to ensure the safety of the lake by preventing debris from clogging the dam gates and making it a hazard for animals such as swans. The dedication and hard work of the volunteers were evident in their efforts to protect this beloved natural space.

John Scott, a volunteer, emphasized the popularity of the lake's trails and the importance of keeping them clean for the community to enjoy.

Meanwhile, Jan Lemasters highlighted the safety concerns associated with debris and wildlife, underscoring the importance of the cleanup day. Overall, the annual Lake Junaluska Cleanup Day not only served as a way to maintain the beauty of the area but also fostered a sense of community among the volunteers and organizers.

Their commitment to preserving this natural gem for future generations is commendable, and their efforts are sure to be appreciated by all who visit the grounds and gardens of Lake Junaluska.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein Announces $40 Million in Disaster Relief and Mitigation Grants to Support Community Resilience.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has announced over $24 million in mitigation grants from the disaster relief and mitigation fund, along with $16 million in grant funding to volunteer organizations.

The grants will support flood mitigation, transportation, infrastructure resilience, and engineering assistance for local governments.

Nonprofits assisting disaster survivors and communities with rebuilding their homes will receive funding through the Volunteer Organizations Active in Rebuild grants. The grants will go towards projects such as wastewater and water treatment infrastructure improvements, flood mitigation, relocating critical infrastructure to reduce flood risk, and engineering for transportation projects.

Local leaders in the western North Carolina Recovery and Resilience Partnership identified the need for funding to support these projects during recovery. NC Emergency Management Director Will Ray expressed excitement about the funding opportunities, stating they will increase resilience against future storms in the state.

A full list of recipients of the grants includes various cities, organizations, and Habitat for Humanity chapters.

The grants aim to assist communities in mitigating risks and impacts from future events while rebuilding stronger.

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Haywood Habitat for Humanity Enhances Chestnut Park with New Community Green Space

Haywood Habitat for Humanity is launching a transformative project in Waynesville’s Chestnut Park, thanks to a major grant aimed at developing outdoor community spaces.

Plans include a scenic nature walking path and a new play area, designed to nurture stronger connections among residents and neighbors while offering spots for recreation and relaxation.

The project will see volunteers—including local employees from the grant partner—planting native trees and building the new amenities, further blending community effort with natural beauty.

For over 35 years, Haywood Habitat has championed homeownership, but their vision now stretches to fostering shared spaces and greater well-being for local families.

At the same time, the organization is advancing affordable housing solutions with new homes in the Jonathan Creek subdivision, especially for families impacted by Hurricane Helene.

These initiatives reflect a long-term commitment to strengthening community life across Haywood County.