This innovative initiative is aimed at accelerating students’ progress through college and into the workforce, aligning with the state's economic development goals. wataugademocrat.com/news/local/ccc…

"As a first-generation college student, this recognition is especially meaningful because it represents a full circle moment in my journey and reaffirms my commitment to expanding educational pathways for students like me.” wataugademocrat.com/news/asu_news/…

The Boone Bigfoots overcame several delays to earn a split of Monday night’s doubleheader with the division-leading Forest City Owls at Jim and Bettie Smith Stadium. wataugademocrat.com/sports/bigfoot…

The annual event recognizes graduates who have made a lasting impact on society and the university through their outstanding professional, philanthropic and volunteer accomplishments. wataugademocrat.com/news/asu_news/…

"The way we care for the river will ripple through our communities for generations. It's wise to gather together to share stories of the New River." wataugademocrat.com/news/local/nrc…

“This is about community stepping up for community — without judgment, without red tape, and without fanfare,” said Quiet Givers Executive Director Melissa Soto. “We believe that small acts of compassion can restore hope and stability.” wataugademocrat.com/community/quie…

The Edgewood Cottage Artist in Residence program continues from Aug. 4-10, featuring returning artists Randi Robeson and Scott Ballard. Both bring years of experience and a deep connection to the High Country to their weeklong residency. wataugademocrat.com/community/rand…

The following information was provided by AppHealthCare. wataugademocrat.com/main_street/wa…

COLUMN: The connection between workforce development and residential substance abuse rehabilitation centers is both practical and transformative. It’s achieved by helping individuals rebuild their lives with purpose and stability. wataugademocrat.com/columns/column…

This week's question at Boone's Magic Mailbox: What's your favorite memory or experience from Boone? (Part 1) wataugademocrat.com/community/boon…

This week in the archives features a local golf course opening, a drug bust and a music camp. wataugademocrat.com/community/this…

“I look forward to working alongside the dedicated librarians and staff at Appalachian Regional Library, and I’m eager to get to know and serve the communities of Ashe, Watauga and Wilkes counties.” wataugademocrat.com/community/appa…

Howards Creek Road near N.C. 194 will close beginning Monday, Aug. 4, while crews replace a culvert that Hurricane Helene damaged. wataugademocrat.com/news/local/how…

This park, the closest to Boone, will include parking, restrooms, a timber frame pavilion, approximately one mile of trail, a boardwalk, wetlands, and river access, all within a natural setting. wataugademocrat.com/community/brc-…

For the first time in the program’s five-year history, the Boone Bigfoots are postseason bound. wataugademocrat.com/sports/bigfoot…

Doug Johnson, retired chief executive officer of Blue Ridge Energy, was recently presented with North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award. wataugademocrat.com/news/local/for…

On Aug. 4, the National Park Service reopened approximately four miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway from milepost 280.9 to 285.5, near Bamboo Gap. wataugademocrat.com/multiple-blue-…

Wow. This is an amazing story ❤️🥹 At a summer camp for Skilled Trades in Boone, North Carolina, a group of teens learned “carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and finish-work.” They then used those skills to build a home for Tracy, an Army Veteran and Hurricane Helene survivor.

.Watauga Democrat: “Local teens help build tiny home for veteran, Hurricane Helene Survivor during summer camp” wataugademocrat.com/news/local/loc…

The incident marks the second involving a paraglider in the Zionville area in less than two weeks and the third in a year. wataugademocrat.com/news/local/par…