Town Swears In New Council Members
It was one of Velma Burnley’s shortest town council meetings ever. As mayor, Burnley welcomed those in attendance to last Thursday’s regular meeting of the Boone Town Council. She left before council matters commenced, not as mayor, but as a community member.

Board of Education Re-elects Chairman, Vice Chairman
Before Watauga County Board of Education members could vote on anything else during their Dec. 12 meeting they had to elect a chairman and vice chairman for the upcoming calendar year.

Watauga School Board Talks High School Reform
A new facility wasn’t the only issue pertaining to Watauga High School that Watauga County Board of Education members discussed at their Dec. 12 meeting.

Cultural Museum Still Needs A Home
The Appalachian State University Cultural Museum may not find its new home before Christmas, but the university administration has found a spot that could better accommodate the museum in downtown Boone.

West Jefferson May Join Regional Water Effort
The town of West Jefferson may be joining a regional effort to develop a new water intake and pipeline system.

Town’s U.D.O. Under Discussion
Though not on the town’s Christmas list this year, a brand new Unified Development Ordinance could eventually find its way down the chimney.

DOT Still Considering Boone Bypass
Little progress has been made in the planning for a proposed Boone bypass, but it’s still on the radar of state Department of Transportation (DOT) officials.

Task Force Discusses Steep Slope Moratorium
Moratorium is a tricky word. Some argue it displays a local government’s willingness to remedy a troublesome situation, while others argue it hampers economic development with lasting results.

BBB Warns Against Possible Financial Aid Scams
Enrolling for college financial aid can be a complicated task on its own.

Alcohol Sting Snares Local Businesses

Government Posts Online Auction Site
Now governments have their own eBay — an electronic auction system for selling surplus or confiscated items.

Republican Primary For State Senate Expected
Garwood Announces Intention To Run Against Challenger

Quality Inn Earns Gold Award
Appalachian State University literally bought quality.
The Quality Inn Appalachian Conference Center, sold to ASU for $9.8 million and now leased to continue operating, will close in March 2006, when it will then be refitted and renovated into a student dormitory – but it’s going out with a bang.