Long regarded as one of the most dog-friendly communities in the United States is Asheville, North Carolina. After Hurricane Helene in September 2024, the city struggled greatly with infrastructural destruction and severe flooding. Still, the strong ...

In a move that has sparked nationwide debate,  President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on February 9, 2025, to announce that he has directed the U.S. Treasury Department to halt the production of new pennies. In his post, Trump stated: ...

The Trump administration is taking steps to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, a move that would drastically change the landscape of public schooling in America. One of the biggest consequences? The loss of Title I funding—the $18 billion fe...

Welcome to 2025! Whether you are an experienced business owner, a new entrepreneur, or just thinking about starting your own business, this year looks promising for growth, new ideas, and chances to succeed. The business world keeps changing, and to ...

People in the United States remember and honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was one of the most important civil rights leaders, on the third Monday of every January. Today is also a day to remember what he said and did and to think about how ...

 When disaster strikes, FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) is often the first line of support for affected communities. But over the past few years, FEMA has faced increasing challenges, from funding limitations to the growing number...

In today's fast-changing job market, you may have heard about H-1B visas and wondered, "What's the impact here in North Carolina?" These visas allow U.S. companies to hire skilled workers from abroad for specialized roles, and they play a significant...

Lately there has been a lot of news on immigration. Although this seems to be a far-off political issue, these developments might have a deeper personal significance than you could think. The headlines feature it everywhere. More strict immigrat...

 In a move aimed that is said to enhance free speech, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, has announced sweeping changes to its content moderation policies. The company will end its third-party fact-check...

Winter can be a harsh and dangerous season for stray and feral cats. Without adequate shelter or access to food, these vulnerable animals face serious risks, including hypothermia and frostbite. Whether you're a seasoned cat advocate or a concerned n...

Many people in Western North Carolina will be carrying heavy hearts starting in 2025. The past year put us to the test in ways we never imagined. Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on people's lives, destroying homes and businesses, and, most painfully, ...

Celebrating New Year's at home with family can be just as magical as going out—and maybe even more so! With a mix of parents, relatives, and kids, you can craft a memorable night filled with laughter, games, and a touch of tradition. Here are so...

On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Western North Carolina, but it was no ordinary hurricane. Among the worst disasters this area has seen in recent memory, it was absolutely terrible. Historic floods, landslides, and tragedy bef...

People often think of the holidays as a beautiful time of happiness, family, and celebration. For many, it lives up to the promise—time spent with family and friends, holiday rituals, and moments of thankfulness can warm the heart. But for some, the ...

The holiday traditions of Western North Carolina (WNC), which have their roots in pioneer history, Appalachian culture, and old-world customs introduced by early settlers, give the region a special charm. Let's examine some cherished Christmas custom...

Oh What Fun to Christmas Shop!

Ah, Christmas shopping for teenagers. The season of joy, festive lights, and utter confusion about what a 14-year-old would actually find cool. Fear not, brave shopper! We've got you covered with a playful guide divided by age group, packed with gift...

Pets Are Not Toys, Not to Be Returned, To Be Taken Care of All of Their Lives

The holiday season often inspires the idea of gifting a pet—a cuddly puppy or kitten nestled under the Christmas tree, symbolizing joy and companionship. While the gesture is heartwarming, it's crucial to recognize that pet ownership is a lifelong co...

 A recent study found that exposure to leaded gas from car exhaust during childhood altered the mental health balance in the US, raising the risk of anxiety, depression, and inattention or hyperactivity in later generations of Americans.  T...

 Oh, how I love the winter holidays! As we enter the holiday season, our homes are filled with dazzling lights, the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and the subtle sound of anxiety, because, let's face it, it's not easy to predict what kids want ...

The holidays are, for many, a season of laughing, lights, and delight. For others, though, this season offers a complex range of feelings. Maybe you are financially overburdened,  lonely, or even about all the planning. Should it apply to you, k...