Blog

WCU Administrator Recorded Discussing Continued DEI Initiatives Despite UNC System Ban As someone who’s spent years writing about the beauty and culture of the Smoky Mountains, it’s important to occasionally address educational developments in our cherished region. Western Carolina University, nestled in the heart of our magnificent mountains, finds itself at the center of a […]

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration: The Ultimate Family Road Trip Destination There’s something magical about summer in the Smokies, and this year, it’s even more special. As I drove through the winding roads leading to Pigeon Forge last weekend, the anticipation was palpable. The mountain air felt different – charged with excitement for what awaited

North Carolina: The East Coast’s Premier Outdoor Playground When James Taylor crooned “Ain’t it just like a friend of mine” about North Carolina, he captured something essential about this magnificent state. Like that dependable buddy who’s always got a new adventure up their sleeve, North Carolina never leaves you feeling bored or stuck in the

Celebrating 30 Years of Asheville Poetry Review: A Mountain Literary Treasure As I sit here in my little cabin nestled among the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains, I’m reminded of how this landscape has inspired generations of writers and poets. The rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant cultural tapestry of Western North Carolina have

Experience Cades Cove Car-Free: The Magic of Vehicle-Free Wednesdays in Great Smoky Mountains National Park There’s something magical about experiencing nature without the hum of engines or the flash of passing cars. If you’ve ever visited Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you know it’s one of the most breathtaking spots in

Experience the Serenity of Cades Cove on Vehicle-Free Wednesdays in the Great Smoky Mountains There’s something magical about Cades Cove when the rumble of engines falls silent and the natural symphony of the Great Smoky Mountains takes center stage. As someone who’s hiked these trails for years, I can tell you that experiencing this beloved

Knoxville, TN: Your Complete Guide to Local News, Weather, and Sports There’s something truly special about Knoxville that captures your heart from the moment you arrive. Nestled at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this vibrant Tennessee city offers so much more than just stunning views and southern hospitality. As someone who’s spent years

Knoxville Smokies Make History: Opening Day at Covenant Health Park & Iron Forge Brewing Co. Expansion There’s something magical about baseball in East Tennessee. As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the Smoky Mountains region, I’ve always appreciated how deeply sports are woven into the fabric of our local culture. The Knoxville Smokies’

Honoring Veterans in the Smokies: Special Event to Remember Those Buried in Great Smoky Mountains National Park There’s something truly special about the way the Smoky Mountains honor those who’ve served our country. As someone who’s spent years exploring these misty peaks and writing about their magic, I can tell you that the connection between

Tennessee National Guard Performs Dramatic Rescue in the Great Smoky Mountains As someone who’s spent years exploring and writing about the Great Smoky Mountains, I’ve always been in awe of both the majestic beauty and potential dangers these mountains present. The recent rescue operation performed by the Tennessee Army National Guard in our beloved Smokies