Various groups in WNC are proclaiming their dependence on federal programs:
- The Swain County School Board hopes it can renew federal funding, claiming dependency on subsidies that make up 10% of its budget.
- The Bryson City Fire Department is pursuing a grant (presumably federal) to pay for thermal imaging equipment.
- The Cherokee Bear Zoo had discrepancies in its recent USDA audit. The absence of information provided is sufficient for anybody who really cares, to subscribe to the newspaper.