Smoky Mountain Echo

If your home was damaged by Hurricane Helene, help may be available. The Southwestern Commission Council of Governments is partnering with the Western Piedmont Council of Governments to bring $6 million in Home Repair Readiness Program funding to Western North Carolina, including Haywood County.   This program helps homeowners make critical repairs like roof repairs, plumbing, electrical work, HVA...

This month on Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re celebrating Earth Day and talking about something simple that makes a big difference—recycling right here in Haywood County. Ever wonder what actually happens to your recycling? Or if you’re doing it correctly? We break it all down and share easy ways you can make an impact in your everyday life. Small actions add up—and it all starts at home. 🎧 Listen now...

North Carolina’s Primary Election is coming up on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 — and early voting starts soon! 📅 In-Person Early Voting ends February 28 Voting is one of the easiest ways to make your voice heard — make a plan and get ready to cast your ballot!  

When we think about our health, we often focus on checkups, exercise, or nutrition—but oral health plays a much bigger role than many people realize.   On today’s episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re talking all about dental care at Haywood Health and Human Services—what services are available, how to access affordable care, and why taking care of your teeth and gums matters at every stage of lif...

As we head into the new year, Haywood County wants to make sure you’re aware of important 2026 property tax programs and requirements that may apply to you.   Elderly or Disabled Property Tax Exclusion   If you turn 65 or become totally and permanently disabled in 2025, and your total income is $38,800 or less, you may qualify for property tax relief in 2026.   Excludes $25,000 of your home’s valu...

This month on Smoky Mountain Echo, we sit down with Deputy Gina Zachary, Public Information Officer for the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office. We’re talking all about The Community Beat, a brand-new podcast designed to keep residents informed, connected, and engaged with what’s happening at the Haywood County Sheriff's Office.   This episode dives into how the podcast will: 🤝 Strengthen community p...

The holidays are a special time of year — a season filled with joy, giving, and family traditions. But for children in foster care, Christmas can sometimes look very different. That’s why the Haywood County Foster Care Christmas Program is so important. Each year, it brings our community together to make sure every child in foster care wakes up on Christmas morning with gifts picked just for them...

On this month’s episode of Smoky Mountain Echo we’re talking with Cody Grasty, Haywood County’s Recovery & Resiliency Manager to reflect on Hurricane Helene one year later.  From personal memories of the storm, to comparisons with past floods like Francis, Ivan, and Fred, to where recovery stands today—Cody shares a unique perspective on what we’ve been through and what lies ahead.  💬 Hear st...

The new school year is officially underway here in Haywood County, and with it comes fresh opportunities and plenty of excitement for students, parents, and staff. In this month’s episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re talking with Dr. Trevor Putnam, Haywood County Schools Superintendent, about what families need to know as we kick off the year. We’ll cover everything from new programs and facility...

This month on Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re talking about something that literally bugs us all — ticks and mosquitoes.  Tick-related ER visits are near record levels this summer, and we want to make sure you and your family are protected. We talk prevention tips, how to safely remove a tick, where mosquito hotspots are in our area, and how to keep your pets safe.  Whether you're hiking, gardening, or...

Ever wondered what Child Welfare Services actually do in Haywood County — or how YOU could make a difference?  In this episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re talking with Anna Messer from Haywood Health & Human Services about:  -The vital role of social workers  -What it takes to apply  -And how YOU can help change lives  Whether you’re looking for a meaningful career or a way to support local...

Have you ever needed a copy of your birth certificate, filed a deed, or wanted to trace your family history? Chances are, you’ve interacted with the Haywood County Register of Deeds—but there’s so much more to the work they do!  On this episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, we sit down with Sherri Rogers, Haywood County’s Register of Deeds, to talk about:  ✅ What records they keep (some dating back cen...

This month on Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re sitting down with Haywood County Animal Services to talk all things adoption, animal care, and how YOU can help make a difference in the lives of local pets.   We’re covering: What adoption fees include Current adoption specials How to prepare for bringing a pet home Heartwarming stories of animals finding their forever families And ways you can get involve...

This month on Smoky Mountain Echo, Dillon Huffman is chatting with Chief Deputy Matt Trantham and PIO/Deputy Gina Zachary from the Haywood County Sheriff's Office - North Carolina as they look back on 2024. 🎙️ In this episode, we cover: ✅ Calls for service, arrests, & drug seizures ✅ Community outreach & engagement efforts ✅ Public safety updates & crime prevention ✅ Job openings a...

The Haywood County Tourism Development Authority has officially rebranded to Visit Haywood! But what does this mean for our community? 🤔 🎙️ In our latest episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, we’re talking with Amie Newsome, Visit Haywood's Social Media and Content Manager. We discuss: ✅ Why they made the switch to 'Visit Haywood'  ✅ What it means for local tourism ✅ How the public has responded so...

This month, we’re shining a light on an incredible local organization: KARE House in Waynesville. Joining me is Savannah Anders, the Executive Director of KARE House, a Children’s Advocacy Center serving Haywood County. In this episode, Savannah shares: ✅ The mission and history of KARE House ✅ How they support child victims of abuse and neglect ✅ Their innovative school safety programs reachin...

We’re excited to share the latest episode of Smoky Mountain Echo with you. It’s been a minute since our last podcast, but as you all know, we’ve been dealing with Helene here in Haywood County. While the storm itself has passed, the lessons we've learned remain valuable for everyone, no matter where you are or what types of disasters you might face. In this episode, we discuss: The importance of e...

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, and there's no better time to discover the incredible benefits that a simple library card can unlock. From access to thousands of books, digital resources, and educational programs to a welcoming space for connection and growth, the library is so much more than just a place to borrow books.    On this month’s episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, we’ll be talking...

On Smoky Mountain Echo this month, we'll discuss the health requirements for students going back to school in North Carolina.    New episodes of Smoky Mountain Echo are available the last Tuesday of every month – and always available on demand.    More info can be found here.  

Hey folks! This month on Smoky Mountain Echo, Dillon Huffman is chatting with Cheryl McCracken from Haywood County Meals on Wheels, a vital service that helps feed and support people in our community. Highlights: -Overview of Meals on Wheels and its mission -Benefits for our community -Eligibility and sign-up process -Volunteer roles and how to get involved -Funding sources and costs per meal -Spe...

🎙️ In this month’s episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, Haywood County NC’s podcast, we dive into all things Haywood County Recreation. From thrilling senior games to the adrenaline-pumping bike park to fly fishing and hiking, there’s something for everyone! 🚴‍♂️🏅  Tune in and discover your next adventure right here in Haywood County.   Listen here: https://smokymountainecho.podbean.com/   #WeAreHayw...

Join us on this episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, Haywood County, NC Government's Podcast, as we delve into the world of recycling and sustainable practices in Haywood County and beyond!   From understanding its significance to tackling challenges and crafting solutions, we're diving deep. But remember, it's not just about knowledge – it's about ACTION.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Trained counselors will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, give support, and get you the help you need. You can call or text 988 and you can chat at 988lifeline.org. This service is available in both English and Spanish.   988 can hel...

The 2nd episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, Haywood County’s podcast, is available now!   Howard Martin from Haywood County Animal Services sheds light on the importance of animal adoption, volunteering, and the agency’s impact on our community.   Discover how adopting a furry friend not only brings joy and companionship into your home but also saves lives and reduces pet overpopulation in our communi...

Medicaid Expansion: What does it mean for North Carolina and folks in Haywood County? Find out now on Smoky Mountain Echo, Haywood County’s new podcast!   Don't miss the inaugural episode of Smoky Mountain Echo, where we explore the implications, challenges, and opportunities this decision holds for our community with Haywood Health and Human Services’ Teresa Allison.   Whether you're a long-time...