Here’s a check of the latest from WataugaOnline.com for Friday, September 25, 2026.
This Sunday, September 27, marks two years since Hurricane Helene struck the High Country — a moment to reflect on how far this region has come, and how much recovery work remains. Several of today’s stories tie into that ongoing effort.
Boone Police Investigating Hit-and-Run Collision Involving Two Pedestrians
Boone Police, Boone Fire, and Watauga County EMS responded to a hit-and-run collision near 1358 West King Street around 11:34 p.m. Wednesday, after a vehicle left the roadway and struck two pedestrians walking nearby before fleeing the scene. Joshua Dotson, 20, of Vilas, and Deedra McCullough, 29, of Boone, suffered potentially life-threatening injuries and were transported to Watauga Medical Center. Officers recovered vehicle debris at the scene and are actively working to identify and locate the vehicle and driver involved.
Eric Church’s Chief Cares Expanding in Western NC
Eric and Katherine Church’s Chief Cares nonprofit has formalized its housing initiative under a new name, Blue Haven Communities, as it expands beyond Avery County into a newly broken-ground community in Yancey County. Blue Haven provides mortgage-free, rent-free housing to community pillars who demonstrate a commitment to service; the Avery County community includes 37 homes, with all units expected to be completed and occupied by 97 residents by January. The organization has also named Winston McGregor, former President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Greensboro, as its new CEO to lead the next phase of growth.
Governor Stein Announces $5 Million to Strengthen Small Businesses in Western North Carolina
Governor Josh Stein announced $5 million in new infrastructure grants Thursday to support small business recovery in western North Carolina through the state’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program, on a visit to Lansing that included a stop at the fire department and a shift behind the counter at the newly reopened Pie on the Mountain. Nearby recipients in this fourth round include the Town of West Jefferson ($233,191 for downtown commercial infrastructure) and the Town of Elk Park ($100,000 to replace a failing culvert). Governor and First Lady Stein also appeared at the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce’s “Spirit of Boone” gathering Thursday night, where he received the chamber’s community award.
QUICK HITS
Watauga hosts Asheville tonight at Jack Groce Stadium for Military Appreciation Night, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m.
App State takes on NC State Saturday in Raleigh, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. on ESPNU.
WEATHER
Check the current Hazardous Weather Outlook, live weather radar, and forecast for Watauga, Ashe, and Alleghany counties on our Weather page. Forecast courtesy of the National Weather Service.
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Thanks for reading — see you tomorrow.
— WataugaOnline