The Franklin Press, Franklin, North Carolina

Press photo/Shelby Powell - Macon Early College student Kaden Marr accepts his diploma from principal Caleb Parham. Marr earned an Associate in Arts and a Criminal Justice Technology Certificate and will attend Western Carolina University. See more MEC graduation photos on Page A3 and on The Franklin Press Facebook page.

MEC grads reflect on accomplishments

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

In the school’s traditional blue caps and gowns, a handful of Macon Early College students walked the stage Sunday to mark their commencement and move on to the next stages of their lives.

Local

Press photo/Shelby Powell - County commissioners listen to the budget presentation at the May 12 meeting.

Proposed budget cuts $7.6 million in department requests

Shelby Powell

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

The proposed 2026-27 Macon County budget keeps the tax rate at 27 cents per $100 valuation but...

Press photo/Mia Overton - The Town of Franklin will hold two days of public workshops on May 28 and 29 to get input on future improvements for the Main Street area.

Help shape Main Street’s future

Mia Overton

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

The Town of Franklin is asking for the public’s ideas for improving the Main Street area.

Press photo/Shelby Powell - Teams participating in the Smoky Mountain Relay stopped for a free breakfast hosted by Cowee School volunteers. Each member of this team was from the Southeast, with members from Bryson City, Chattanooga, Nashville, Sylva and Asheville.