Deputy James Day with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office charged 41-year-old Dana Henson Morgan of Marion with felony Possession of Methamphetamine and misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She was given a secured bond of $10,000.

Bobby Johnson, a man of profound faith, steady hands, and a generous heart, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, at the age of 82. Born November 3, 1943 to LeeAnna Waters Johnson and Robert E. Johnson, Bobby grew up with a deep appreciation for family and hard work—values that would define his eighty-two years. A master of his craft, Bobby spent his professional life as an auto mechanic, where his mechanical mind and reliable nature earned him the respect of all who kn

Sally Howe, age 79, of Bostic, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at her home while being surrounded by her family. Sally was born Saturday, October 26, 1946 in Concord, New Hampshire to the late Russell Rheaume and Mary Hayes Rheaume. She worked as a purchasing agent for Watts Industries for twenty-five years before her retirement. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Marie Merchant and brothers, Steve Rheaume, and Russell Rheaume Jr. Those left t

We want to make you aware that Western North Carolina is currently experiencing drought conditions that are impacting our region’s water resources.

The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance regarding a stolen dump truck.

Paul Newby has proclaimed May 2026 as Recovery Court Month for the North Carolina Judicial Branch, recognizing treatment-based court programs while also drawing attention to gaps in access across parts of the state.

A proposed tiny home development in the Bills Creek community has become a flashpoint in Rutherford County, not only over growth and infrastructure concerns but over transparency in local government.

Rutherford County school leaders approved $2.7 million in facility upgrades Tuesday but again deferred action on a long-term plan to address aging school buildings and infrastructure needs across the district.

With the state-issued ban being lifted for 81 North Carolina counties, many of you are wondering about those campfires for upcoming camping trips.

We are moving...

The Rutherford County Airport Authority on Monday approved a slate of infrastructure upgrades, budget adjustments, and a private hangar transfer, pointing to operational gaps exposed by recent severe weather, including impacts from Hurricane Helene.

JoAnn B. Peeler, age 90, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026 at her home. JoAnn was born Friday, March 27, 1936 in Rutherford County to the late C.D. Baldwin and Carrie Conner Baldwin. She was a graduate of Ellenboro High School, class of 1954. JoAnn worked twenty-seven years as an Instructor at the Rutherford County Workshop. She grew up going to Race Path Baptist Church where she was active in the shut-in ministry, later she became a member of Liberty Baptist Church. She love

Sherry Skipper Gragg, age 78, of Rutherfordton, passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Hospice of the Carolina Foothills. Sherry was born Tuesday, March 9, 1948 in Rutherford County to the late Joseph Skipper and Cordie Huntsinger Skipper. She retired from Broyhill Furniture Mfg. after thirty-nine years of faithful work. Sherry was a member of West Point Baptist Church and was currently attending Spindale Fellowship Holiness. She enjoyed shopping and going out to eat with fr

Calvin Russell Tate, age 57, of Sunshine, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nona Parker Tate; his father, Carl Tate; and his grandparents, Charlie and Ellen Murray, and Floyd and Lucy Tate. Calvin is survived by his children, Helix Tate (Steven) of Florida, Brittany Farmer (Robbie) of Burlington, Keylon Tate (Brittany) of Forest City, along with five grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Malena Tate; his s

Elizabeth “Betty” Jewell, age 83, of Shelby, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at her home. Betty was born Monday, October 12, 1942 in Camden, New Jersey to the late Charles D. and Isabel Eirich. She worked for many years as a Slot Supervisor for Resorts International in Atlantic City. Betty’s passion was spending time with her family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Louette Grafe and a daughter-in-law, Anne Mathis-Grafe. Those left to

A new statewide report shows grocery shopping is doing more than filling pantries in Rutherford County — it’s also generating millions in local tax revenue that helps fund essential county services.

U.S. Rep. Tim Moore (R - 14th District) says Congress has moved to stabilize federal operations and deliver targeted funding to western North Carolina, including nearly $2 million for a new emergency facility in Cleveland County.

An investigation WCAB News first reported exclusively in September 2025 has advanced in Rutherford Superior Court, where a Marion woman now faces two indicted felony cases tied to alleged financial crimes involving a local church — and the matter has again been delayed, with the next hearing set for August.

Leaders in Lake Lure are advancing several high-cost infrastructure projects while operating under a tightening budget and approaching federal funding deadlines, raising ongoing questions about timing, oversight, and long-term affordability.

What began as a small faith-based ministry operating out of a house off Old Ross Road has grown into a major lifeline for hundreds of people facing homelessness in Rutherford County. This year, Out of the Ashes is celebrating 10 years of service after founders Pat and Chelsea Chamberlain launched the ministry to help people struggling with homelessness, addiction, financial hardship, and family instability. The organization was created after the Grace of God Rescue Mission in