"Dad's plea sparks controversy for McKenna | Summer Sun Bucks program update

"Dad's plea sparks controversy for McKenna | Summer Sun Bucks program update | Woodsmen competition and more!"

Fat Burger Month in Haywood County, NC

"Dad's Plea for McKenna: A Hazelwood Father's Hope for First Place in National Competition"

Haywood County student McKenna Lilly is putting her creativity on display in "Bob Ross Presents: America's Most Artistic Kid".

Her entry highlights her love for imaginative thinking and problem-solving—something she’s been quietly building for a while.

📅 Voting to the quarterfinals ends tonight!
🔗 Support her here: Vote For Waynesville's Own McKenna Lilly

What's Happening in Haywood County?

Haywood County is buzzing with spring festivities and community events for all ages.

Don’t miss Tuscola High School’s production of The Little Mermaid on March 27–28 in Waynesville, plus the Easter Bunny Farm Tour at Winchester Creek Farm on March 28–29 and April 4–5, featuring alpaca visits and festive photos.

Early April brings the HCC Career Connect Fair, The Revelry Ball masquerade at HART Theatre, and the Friendship House Easter Egg Hunt — perfect family outings in Waynesville.

April’s highlights include the Farm Fresh 5K, Spring Crafters Market, and ongoing outdoor Fitness in the Park sessions, as well as PlottFest on May 16 in Maggie Valley and WNC JeepFest on June 5–6.

Explore live music at local breweries, new seasonal menus, and even consider adopting a pet from the Haywood County Animal Shelter in Clyde.

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Haywood County Officials Encourage Families to Apply for Summer Sun Bucks Program for Grocery, Payment, and Meal Assistance.

Haywood County officials are urging families to apply for the Sun Bucks program, which provides groceries, payment assistance, and meals for lunch and dinner during the summer.

The program is available to families with children who are eligible for free or reduced price meals at schools.

It aims to provide support for families during the summer months when school meals are not available.

Families are encouraged to apply through the Department of Social Services to receive assistance.

"Ethnically Ambiguous: A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Identity and Belonging"

HART presents a play titled "Ethnically Ambiguous," which explores issues of identity and belonging through the story of a woman navigating her mixed race heritage.

The play challenges societal expectations and stereotypes surrounding race and ethnicity, prompting dialogue on complex issues of self-discovery and acceptance.

Through humor and poignant storytelling, "Ethnically Ambiguous" sheds light on the experiences of individuals who do not neatly fit into one racial category, inviting audiences to reconsider the meaning of identity in a diverse society.

Haywood Community College (HCC) hosts a Woodsmen Competition this weekend, featuring teams from colleges across the southeast.

The competition includes events like axe throwing, log rolling, and pole climbing, showcasing the skills of forestry students.

The event will take place at the HCC campus, with spectators encouraged to attend for free.

The competition aims to promote the forestry industry and provide a fun and competitive atmosphere for participants.

Haywood County is brimming with inspiring stories and remarkable people.

To celebrate these voices, the all-new Haywood Holler Podcast is launching to spotlight the residents shaping our community.

You’ll hear from leaders, business owners, educators, artists, volunteers, and everyday locals—all sharing honest, unscripted conversations.

In a time dominated by national headlines, this podcast brings local voices to the forefront, honoring those making a true difference—often quietly, always with heart.

Know someone with a powerful story, a generous spirit, or a unique impact?

Nominations are open for neighbors, mentors, creatives, or anyone you believe deserves to be recognized.

Each episode promises an authentic, encouraging, and personal listening experience rooted in Haywood County’s spirit.

"Therapy Dog Program Enhances Mental Health and Rehabilitation in Haywood County Jail"

The Haywood County Sheriff's Office in North Carolina has introduced a therapy dog, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, to help inmates in their jail.

The dog is part of a reintegration program aimed at improving mental health and reducing recidivism rates.

The dog participates in various programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, to help with rehabilitation efforts.

The presence of the therapy dog has had a positive impact on the inmates and staff at the jail, contributing to a more humane and supportive environment for all involved.