Great Smoky Mountains National Park firefighters are suppressing a 5-10 acre wildland fire near backcountry campsite 87 on Fontana Lake’s shore. The Lake Fire was reported at approximately 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 26. Firefighters were on the scene early this evening and will remain in the area overnight to monitor and continue to suppress the fire. No structures are threatened by the fire. Smoke may be visible. The fire is smoldering and...

Beverly Collins – WCU Professor Fall, the time of year when Western Carolina University’s campus is bustling with activity, classes, football and of course, the brilliant color of autumn leaves. The fall colors across Western North Carolina are a seasonal sensation that draw thousands of visitors and locals alike to the mountains each year. Beverly Collins, professor emeritus at WCU, has been the resident leaf expert for WCU and has again o...