Press Releases

Jackson County TDA Donates Advertising Revenue to Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Jackson County TDA Donates Advertising Revenue to Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Sylva, NC – October 17, 2024 – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) is honored to announce its contribution to the relief efforts for Western North Carolina communities and businesses affected by Hurricane Helene. The JCTDA has redirected $56,411 in advertising revenue, collected from ad sales in the Jackson County Visitor Guide since 2018, to support those in the region recovering from the storm’s devastation. These funds have been accumulating and remained unspent, allowing the JCTDA to make this donation at a time of great need. “When Western North Carolina is strong, Jackson County is strong,” said JCTDA Executive Director Nick Breedlove. “We were fortunate here in our county, and we feel it’s important to give back to our neighbors who need support right now. We are all connected as our region recovers.” Among the donation recipients are 15 businesses in Dillsboro, NC, a town within Jackson County, that suffered floodwater damage during Helene. Breedlove initiated the effort after recalling a similar initiative in Asheville during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I remembered how they used advertising revenue to benefit the community, and I thought we could do something similar to help those hit hardest by the storm,” he said. The funds will provide critical support to designated non-profit organizations actively working on recovery efforts in the region. While state legislation governs how occupancy tax funds can be used, the advertising revenue—separate from the occupancy tax—may be applied toward such emergency relief. The JCTDA confirmed with its attorney that redirecting such […]

Embrace the Secret Season: Winter Wonder and Holiday Charm in Jackson County, NC

Embrace the Secret Season: Winter Wonder and Holiday Charm in Jackson County, NC

Dear Friends, As we enter the holiday season, Jackson County’s beautiful mountain towns invite you to experience the charm of Western North Carolina’s “Secret Season.” It’s a time when crowds clear out, you have trails all to yourself, and lodging rates are more affordable. Though we’re nearing the close of our vibrant leaf season, the magic of winter is just beginning. While some nearby communities continue to recover, Jackson County remains an ideal spot for your next adventure. Here, you’ll find the same welcoming spirit and breathtaking beauty that make Jackson County so unique, with the added magic of the holiday season. Explore and Embrace Winter’s Charm: With cozy cafes, inviting local shops, and unique holiday events, our towns of Sylva, Cashiers, Dillsboro, and Cherokee are perfect for exploring. Stroll through the festive displays or find unique gifts at events like the Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries, the Mistletoe Market in Cashiers, and the Sylva Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade. These holiday events bring Jackson County’s spirit to life and offer memorable experiences for all. Outdoor Adventures Await: Nature’s beauty here is unparalleled—even in winter. Take a peaceful winter hike to one of our iconic waterfalls, such as Whitewater Falls or Silver Run Falls, or explore Panthertown Valley in Cashiers. These experiences make for unforgettable winter memories in the tranquil landscape. Planning Your Journey Thoughtfully: Please remember that some areas of Western North Carolina are still recovering. Check your route ahead of time, as some maps may still show alerts from […]

Jackson County TDA Announces $745,000 in Funding for Tuckasegee River Greenway Expansion

Jackson County TDA Announces $745,000 in Funding for Tuckasegee River Greenway Expansion

September 19, 2024 – Jackson County, NC – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) today announced its funding of $745,000 through the Tourism Capital Project Fund (TCPF) to support the expansion of the Tuckasegee River Greenway in Cullowhee. This significant contribution reflects the TDA’s commitment to preserving and enhancing outdoor recreational spaces that benefit both locals and visitors alike. In a unanimous decision on September 3, Jackson County Commissioners voted to accept the TDA grant. Of the total funding, $742,000 will go towards the acquisition of a 17.45-acre property on University Heights Road, while the remaining $3,000 will be allocated for real estate closing costs. The land acquisition will help bridge currently separated segments of the Greenway, creating a more continuous and extended outdoor experience. Jackson County TDA Executive Director Nick Breedlove expressed enthusiasm for the project. “This investment in the Tuckasegee River Greenway is a perfect example of how our Tourism Capital Project Fund is designed to benefit both our residents and visitors,” said Breedlove. “By expanding the Greenway, we are not only enhancing our outdoor recreation experiences but also supporting accessible and sustainable tourism in Jackson County. The Greenway is a beloved asset, and we’re excited to help it grow.” The Tuckasegee River Greenway, opened in 2014, is a picturesque two-mile trail that winds alongside the scenic Tuckasegee River. The trail begins at Monteith Gap Road in Cullowhee and offers an additional access point from Old Cullowhee Road near Sylva, making it a convenient and tranquil spot […]

[Jackson County, N.C. – May 2024] — In a significant professional development milestone, the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) proudly announces that Kara Addy, APR, its Social Media Manager, has completed the Professional in Destination Management (PDM) certificate program from Destinations International. The PDM program is designed for new and aspiring destination management professionals, providing a comprehensive foundation in destination organization functions, community roles and strategies for attracting visitors. Developed and delivered by industry experts, the program covers key areas such as marketing, visitor services and economic development. Participants gain critical skills and knowledge essential for driving tourism and supporting their communities. Graduates of the program receive a Certificate of Completion that signifies their preparedness to take on advanced roles in the travel and tourism industry. Addy’s commitment to her career growth and passion for enhancing the travel and visitor experience in Jackson County are evident. “The opportunity to learn and grow within such a dynamic industry is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “Each day brings new challenges and learning experiences that enhance my ability to contribute to our community’s prosperity and vibrant tourism scene.” Addy’s newly acquired skills will play an important role in advancing the Jackson County TDA’s mission to attract and serve visitors, contributing to the county’s overall growth and success, according to JCTDA Executive Director Nick Breedlove. “On behalf of the board and our organization, we celebrate Kara’s achievement and recognize the importance of continued professional development,” Breedlove said. “We prioritize ongoing educational opportunities to ensure […]

TDA Welcomes Kara Addy as Social Media Manager

TDA Welcomes Kara Addy as Social Media Manager

JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (February 27, 2023) – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority is excited to announce the hire of Kara Addy as its new Social Media Manager. The Jackson County TDA is the county’s marketing, promotion, and destination management organization. Founded in 2013, the Jackson County TDA’s primary goal is to inspire visitation to the area, promote local offerings, and in turn, support the growth of the local economy. Addy’s background includes a leadership role at the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands where she managed content across various channels, a role as a content editor and client experience manager at Silver Creek Real Estate Group/NC Living Magazine, and a marketing director position at McKee Properties where she managed the company’s brand, campaigns, communication strategies, social media presence, SEO, and web presence. She has also held positions at Western Carolina University and the University of South Carolina where she developed and implemented communication plans and donor relations strategies. Addy has a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications with a minor in Political Science from Florida State University. She also has an Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) certificate from the Public Relations Society of America, a certificate in Non-Profit Leadership Institute from Francis Marion University, and a certificate in Learn, Educate, and Develop Supervisory Essentials from the University of South Carolina. “We are delighted to have Kara join our team as the new Social Media Manager,” Jackson County TDA Director Nick Breedlove said. “Her extensive experience in content management, marketing, and […]

Jackson County TDA Increases Funding to $2,500 for Third Year of “Cleaning Up the Mountains”

Jackson County TDA Increases Funding to $2,500 for Third Year of “Cleaning Up the Mountains”

Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) has once again shown its commitment to environmental stewardship by increasing its funding to $2,500 for the third year of the “Cleaning Up the Mountains” initiative. The funds will be used to purchase trash grabbers, to help pick up litter on roadways, sidewalks, and downtown areas.

The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) will reopen its cycle for tourism capital projects January 1, 2023. $750,000 is available for projects that benefit visitors and residents alike. Applications for this cycle are due June 1, 2023.

JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (August 18, 2022) — Ideally situated in Western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Jackson County today announced that 2021 visitor spending set records. Domestic and international visitors to and within Jackson County spent $437.41 million last year, an increase of $145 million from 2020. The data comes from an annual study commissioned by Visit North Carolina, a unit of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

Jackson County, NC Delivers Visitors Fresh Produce Through Partnership with Local Farmers

Jackson County, NC Delivers Visitors Fresh Produce Through Partnership with Local Farmers

New Vacationer Supported Agriculture (VSA) with NC State Extension offers fresh provisions to enhance community and vacation experience JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (May 11, 2021) – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) today announced the launch of NC State Extension’s Vacationer Supported Agriculture (VSA) initiative. Now through the last weekend in September, visitors can pre-purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, eggs, meat, and just-picked floral bouquets online (www.p1provisions.com/discover-jackson-nc/) from a network of small farmers in the Western North Carolina community. Visitors can then pick up the specially curated totes from WNC Farm to Table or their local Vacation Rental Agency when they arrive. Lisa McBride at WNC Farm-to-Table manages the program for Jackson County, NC and works with local farms to harvest bags containing more than 10 lbs. of fresh produce, fruits and herbs. McBride reaches out to those who have purchased provisions a few days before the stay to share what’s in season, so guests know what to expect in the bags. “We are proud to partner with NC Extension and WNC Farm-to-Table to support the livelihood of our local farmers and deliver on vacationers’ desire for fresh, local food,” said Nick Breedlove, Executive Director of the JCTDA. “Our destination has an abundance of short-term vacation rentals, and now our visitors have a convenient way to cook meals at their home-away-from-home using fresh local ingredients from farmers in our community.” The concept for VSA was developed by a team of specialists from NC State Extension and Tourism Extension as part […]

JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (May 3, 2022) – The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority will hold a pre-submission meeting on June 1 for its Tourism Capital Project Fund. Held at 10 a.m. at the JCTDA office at 98 Cope Creek Road, Suite D, the conference will allow potential applicants to ask questions about the TCPF and meet with staff to review procedures and timelines. The Tourism Capital Project Fund, launching later this year, will fund projects to improve the quality of life within Jackson County for residents and visitors alike. Its purpose is to offer a level of financial support that will create sustainable tourism development activities at the local level by maintaining and creating jobs, attracting tourists, and enhancing the visitor experience. The leveraged investment provided the TCPF will in tur increase visitation and attendant spending in the destination over time, improving the overall economic impact for Jackson County. The JCTDA allocated $500,000 this fiscal year for the TCPF. Eligible projects include but are not limited to construction, extension, expansion, remodeling, repair and/or improvements, and major equipment (capital assets) for convention centers, meeting venues, sports facilities, coliseums, auditoriums, museums, or similar institutions and attractions that are publicly owned and operated, or owned and operated by non- profit organizations and open to the public, in accordance with the Jackson County Tourism Development Strategic Plan and North Carolina statutes regarding the allowable expenditure of occupancy tax funds. Applications are scored according to criteria set forth in the application guidelines, and all applicants must provide […]