The last of a two-part series on the the new Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s new backcountry user fee that went into effect on Wednesday. Some view the fee as a way to help preserve or enhance the park’s current use and future. But some plan to challenge the fee in court.
Obama talks manufacturing
President Barack Obama used a bustling engine-parts factory that came back from the dead in Arden as the backdrop Wednesday to pitch his plans to boost U.S. manufacturing, part of the second-term agenda he rolled out in his State of the Union address the night before.
McCrory seeks help for Watauga County residents, businesses
Gov. McCrory, according to a press release from his office, has asked the U.S. Small Business Administration for a disaster declaration in Watauga County.
Obama heads for Asheville factory
After Tuesday’s State of the Union address focused on jobs, manufacturing and middle-class opportunities, President Obama is heading for Asheville Wednesday morning to reinforce his points at an auto-parts plant.
New Smokies fee prompts modern echo of historic culture clash
Part one of a two-part report on a new fee — which goes into effect today — charged by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and some reasons for why it is garnering so much attention and opposition.