

Kenneth Lee “Ken” Hicks
Kenneth Lee “Ken” Hicks, passed away peacefully on January 4th, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in McDowell County on November 24th, 1951 to the late Virgil Lee Hicks and Dorothy




Blue Ridge Parkway Campground Reservations Available Soon
Reservations for campgrounds for the 2026 camping season on the Blue Ridge Parkway will become available on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10:00 am EST. Reservations can be made online at rec.gov, on the park’s camping website
Wanting a Free Dryer
Wanted: In need of a free dryer please…email Taterfried97@gmail.com
New Zealand Buck Rabbit
For Sale: Young New Zealand buck rabbit…text 828-467-0447

Parkway Playhouse Announces New Executive Director
The Parkway Playhouse has announced their new Executive Director, Melanie Veazey! Melanie joins the leadership team with an extensive background in arts administration, creative development, and performance. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theater
Carolyn ‘Carol’ Hoilman Pendley
Carolyn ‘Carol’ Hoilman Pendley, age 71, of Beaver Creek Road in Spruce Pine, went home to be with the Lord on January 2, 2026 at Amorem Health in Valdese. Born on June 22, 1954 in Mitchell County,
Patricia Ann Buchanan (Sissy)
Patricia Ann Buchanan (Sissy), age 61, of Wilcox Drive in Bakersville, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026 at her home in Bakersville. Born on July 2, 1964 in Mitchell County, she was the daughter of the late
A Red and White Husky Mix Has Been Found
A dog has been found on Hazen Ledford Road. It’s a young male red and white husky mix. Beautiful. If you’re missing one and think it might be yours call 828-434-8313

Mountain Heritage at Avery Basketball Games Postponed Until Wednesday Night
The Mountain Heritage at Avery basketball games have been postponed until Wednesday 1/7 due to water problems at Avery High School.
Denise Pate Sturgill
Denise Pate Sturgill, age 57, of the Jacks Creek Community, went Home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 4th, 2026 at Mission Hospital. A native of Yancey County, she was a daughter of JD and

Important Dates for 2026 Primary Election
Primary Election Day: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (polls open 6:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.) Absentee ballots begin mailing: Monday, January 12, 2026 Voter registration deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026 (5:00 p.m.) Early voting: Thursday, February 12, 2026 – Saturday, February 28,