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January 4-10, 2017 Vol. 18 Iss. 32

WNC native joins NC Court of Appeals Page 3 Law requires UNC institutions to start ‘lab schools’ Page 12

CONTENTS On the Cover: Now that the worst of the drought is hopefully behind them, municipalities and water districts in Haywood County have formed a coalition to work through a number of water shortage issues and find answers to unanswered questions about how their infrastructure can be connected in case of future emergency situations. (Page 6) Becky Johnson photo

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WNC native joins NC Court of Appeals ......................................................................3 Clampitt to be sworn in close to home ........................................................................4 Confusion grows over Russ Avenue widening project ............................................5 Community Health Center to open in Sylva ............................................................10 Sylva appoints public art committee ..........................................................................11 Law requires eight UNC institutions to start ‘lab schools’ ..................................12 Bryson City Bicycles receives $20,000 grant ........................................................14 Community Almanac ........................................................................................................15

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Naturalist’s Corner

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January 4-10, 2017

Birders with mettle – medal ..........................................................................................39

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WNC native joins N.C. Court of Appeals

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Murphy admittedly enjoyed seeing his work benefit his clients, but he also had aspirations of donning the black robe himself one day. After practicing law in Western North Carolina for more than eight years, it wouldn’t be long before he took his chances at the polls.

In August 2014, Chief Judge of the North Carolina Court of Appeals John Charles Martin retired; Murphy saw his opportunity, and took it.

“I was actually one of the first people to declare that I was running for that race,”

MURPHY’S LAW Luckily for Murphy, the newly partisan nature of the race allowed him to run under his party affiliation, giving voters a generic sense of who they might want on the bench. He says he’s been a registered Republican his whole life, save a short stint as an unaffiliated voter.

“I think fiscal conservatism is very important, and I’m socially conservative, but in the Court of Appeals situation, that’s not really something we get to express,” he said.

Why then would what is essentially a job application for a position which requires impartial decision-making now demand a declaration of party affiliation from an applicant who isn’t allowed to posit how they might be so inclined to rule on any particular case anyway?

“I think part of the motivation in going partisan with these races was, people ask,” said Murphy. “Voters care. And I’m not one to tell the voters what they should or shouldn’t care about. I’m going to put everything out there about myself on my background, my experience, cases I’ve worked on.

Smoky Mountain News

AGAINST THE ODDS

Murphy said. “I always had my eyes on eventually running for the North Carolina Court of Appeals — it was always in my plans.”

Although Murphy had his sights set on the 2016 election, Judge Martin’s unexpected retirement induced him to make a run for the court two years earlier than planned.

An astonishing 18 other candidates felt likewise, severely fragmenting the Nov. 4, 2014, North Carolina’s votes. The majority of cannewest Court of didates earned less than 5 Appeals Judge, percent of the vote and the Hunter Murphy. winner, Fayetteville native Donated photo and former Court of Appeals Judge John M. Tyson, earned just 23 percent.

Murphy ended up with 103,000 votes, good for 4.42 percent and a seventh place finish. Far from discouraged, he recognized that he’d made a strong showing his first time out despite living in a town smaller than some Fayetteville neighborhoods, so when Appeals Court Judge Martha Geer announced her retirement in March 2016, Murphy resumed campaigning.

“We just kept our foot on the gas, and when this opportunity came about to run we worked real hard,” Murphy said.

And by “we,” Murphy means not only his small legion of dedicated supporters, but also his biggest supporter — wife Kellie, who he met while he “Winning a statewide election with an was in law school.

“She kept everything 828 phone number isn’t always the squared away back here so easiest thing to do.” that I could be out on the road. We went without a — Hunter Murphy true campaign manager — we had a lot of advisors, “It was a great opportunity to really conpeople we talked to a lot, but every decision we made Kellie and I pretty much bounced nect with the whole state,” said Murphy. “I off each other, since the ones I made on my had been doing what I did for two years — own usually didn’t turn out as well as the ones going to court in Bryson City and then being at a dinner in Raleigh that night, or being at that she gave me advice on,” he laughed. an event in Brunswick County on a Saturday “We make a great team,” she said.

Murphy and his wife have 6-year-old morning. I want to know the whole state. I twins, so having a supportive partner was a want to know all the people across our state, and what they need in the Court of Appeals.” prerequisite to any run for public office.

During what he called the four month “We were practicing law the entire time that I was out running, so there’s no way we “execution phase” of a campaign he’d more or would’ve done that without her being on top less been running since 2014, Murphy utiof every file and knowing what’s going on lized the statewide network he’d painstakingwith every case, making sure I knew where I ly built to spread his message. He said he didn’t have any particular family, professional or needed to be,” he said.

After the 2014 elections, Court of Appeals personal connections outside Western North races became a partisan affair, so in 2016, Carolina, meaning he started from scratch.

“Friends, family, people that we didn’t know six months ago were out there in the rain, putting up signs for us, handing out slate cards and things like that. It made a difference,” he said. “It really did.”

Including both the 2014 and 2016 campaigns, Murphy said he was on pace to hit all 100 counties in the state until Hurricane Matthew made that impossible.

“A lot of background work from 2014 is what enabled us to be in the position we were this year,” he said, noting that his two campaigns had spent a total of about $90,000, the bulk of it self-funded.

“Between us, my family, that’s where the bulk of our fundraising came from,” he said.

But Murphy was outspent by what he guesstimates is a 7-to-1 margin; even worse for Murphy, his main opponent Margaret Eagles was and is a Wake County district court judge, giving her a huge built-in base of name recognition in the densely-populated Raleigh area.

“Winning a statewide election with an 828 phone number isn’t always the easiest thing to do,” he said.

Murphy doubtlessly benefitted from the Republican surge on Nov. 8, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t elected on his own merit. His 2,159,193 votes to Eagles’ 2,021,769 gave him a comfortable 48.7 to 45.6 percent margin.

“I think it shows that what you’re saying matters more than what money is behind you,” he said. “I know there was a good groundswell of people out there actively voting for me, thinking about me. When we were out at the polls people would say, ‘I looked you up on Facebook, really liked your family, like what you had to say.’ And that felt good.”

To his credit — and to Eagles’ — Murphy even earned a heartwarming conciliatory note from his opponent after his victory. A statement on her website thanking friends, family and supporters also congratulates Murphy, “as he conducted himself with dignity and honor.”

January 4-10, 2017

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER s voters cast their ballots each Election Day, judicial races are often overlooked — they’re the least publicized, least funded and least understood of the lot.

They are important though, possibly even more so than legislative races, in that a single judge (or a panel of them) has the power to make important decisions on cases that can change people’s lives.

Haywood County’s 2016 election resulted in a loss of influence for the county legislatively, but the county did score an important victory judicially when a local underdog who was badly outspent refused to be outworked.

Despite his statewide electoral victory, Hunter Murphy remains somewhat unknown to many. Born in Arizona, Murphy moved to Western North Carolina right before high school, when his father bought Jackson Paper in Sylva in 1995.

“We moved all around before I ended up here in Waynesville,” Murphy said. “We were down in Phoenix and then we moved away from there when I was about 4, lived in Dallas, Georgia, Albuquerque and back to Atlanta.”

Murphy graduated from Tuscola High School in 1999 and then from UNC Chapel Hill in 2003 with degrees in economics and religious studies before going on to the University of the Pacific in Sacramento for law school.

Even though he’s lived all over the country, he “very much” considers Western North Carolina his home, so when he began to practice law, he knew exactly where he was headed.

“I really decided during law school that I wanted to do small town practice — things that could really help people with their real problems — and decided there’s no reason to be anywhere else but home to do that,” he said.

Starting in 2006, Murphy began working with attorney Eric Ridenhour in Sylva.

“We did a lot of civil litigation, criminal work, real estate work,” he said. “I didn’t really love the real estate transaction side of it, but we did a lot of real estate litigation, which I enjoyed a great deal.”

Murphy says he tried to “clear the field” to avoid a divisive and expensive primary.

“I put a lot of energy and effort into making sure everybody understood why I was the best choice for us [Republicans], and it worked out well,” he said. “I ran against just one other Democrat and one independent gentleman and it was a lot of fun.”

Driving from one end of the state to the other for a solid two years isn’t everybody’s idea of fun, but Murphy seems to truly enjoy meeting people and learning about their lives and concerns as a means to be better prepared to address their issues in the courtroom.

S EE M URPHY, PAGE 4 3

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Queen’s defeat leaves Haywood County — the most populous in the district — without a legislator of its own. Rep. Michele Presnell, R-Burnsville, represents outlying areas to the north and south in the 118th District, while Clampitt now represents the core of the Haywood County, along with Jackson and Swain counties.

Accordingly, Clampitt will hold a swearing-in ceremony of his own in the Swain County Heritage Museum at 2 p.m. on Jan. 7, in what may signal a shift of district priorities from Haywood further west.

During the campaign, Clampitt had criticized Queen for his supposed lack of efficacy in the legislature, particularly in responding to the concerns of constituents from Jackson and Swain counties; Clampitt promised to open offices in all three counties to better serve citizens.

“That’s what representation means to me,” Clampitt told The Smoky Mountain News in October. At the time he said his priorities for the 2017-2018 legislative session would include strengthening trade and vocational schools, health care and senior workforce re-entry training.

His oath of office will be administered by Haywood resident and newly elected NC Court of Appeals Judge Hunter Murphy, who likewise secured a surprising victory in his race Nov. 8, becoming the only Court of Appeals judge from the western part of the state.

Clampitt’s ceremony in Swain County will feature at least two interesting sidelines, reflecting his love of local lore and legislative history.

The last person elected to the state legislature from Swain County was Republican John T. Burnett in 1901; a farmer and merchant, Burnett served several terms in the legislature, on the county school board, and as mayor of Bryson City from 1915 to 1916.

A descendant of Burnett’s will serve as Clampitt’s master of ceremonies during the event, which is free and open to the public.

But most importantly for Clampitt, the Bible upon which he will take his oath will be held by his 85 year-old mother, who resides in a local nursing home due to dementia and Alzheimer’s — another reason he wanted to hold an event of his own, closer to home.

“She gave me that Bible when I was 4 years old,” he said.

Kellie Murphy (left) looks on during her husband Hunter’s swearing in. Debbie King photo

everybody thinks of Asheville as way out. I go to the east and say I’m from the mountains, and they say ‘Oh you mean Hickory?’ and I’d say ‘No, nowhere near Hickory.’”

Murphy has practiced extensively in Western North Carolina, and is frank about what his contributions to the rest of the state might be.

“Having practiced in all those counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, I think it’s important to lend that perspective to the court — to have those judges understand what it’s like for people that practice out here, what it’s like for the people that live out here. When you have judges covering a seven-county district bigger than the state of Delaware, it’s the physical demands on our attorneys in addition to the mental demands, which are pretty stringent. I think having that perspective in the Court of Appeals will be very good when they’re analyzing cases, when they’re looking at what things are like for people in Western North Carolina.”

Murphy, who is just 35 years old, will be 43 when his eight-year term is up.

“Basically, I’m a dad, and I’m a lawyer, and a husband, and that’s kind of where I enjoy my time,” he said. “Now I’ve got the Court of Appeals on top of that.”

Although he’s already seen many of his hobbies — like playing fantasy football and watching college basketball — fall by the wayside, he said he hopes to get back into coaching Little League baseball once he settles in to his new job.

“It’s really going to be a lot of fun. It’s the job I’ve always wanted to do. Politics was the means to an end instead of the other way around, you know, wanting to be political and doing this to run for something. This is the job I’ve always wanted,” he said. “I can’t believe 2.15 million people voted for me on Nov. 8. It’s really humbling. It’s been a real battle and a real test of our time and our endurance, and it’s been worth it at every turn.”

Mountain legislator to be sworn in Family, tradition important to Clampitt

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER t took Bryson City Republican Mike Clampitt three tries over six years to finally become a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives.

When he officially does so on Jan. 11, he’ll join a veto-proof 75-45 majority of Republicans in the house, alongside a 35-15 Republican majority in the senate.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to bring some issues to the table,” said Clampitt, who is currently awaiting notification of his committee assignments and preparing for a

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training session he says will teach new legislators the ins and outs of government.

Both Republican legislative majorities grew by one seat as a result of the Nov. 8, 2016 General Election; Clampitt’s victory over longtime Waynesville Democratic legislator Joe Sam Queen in the 119th District was surprising to many in Mike Clampitt Haywood County, despite Clampitt’s preelection predictions that 2016 would be Donald Trump’s year and that Trump’s electoral success would benefit Republicans across the country.

M URPHY, CONTINUED FROM 3

Smoky Mountain News

January 4-10, 2017

The main thing we tried to push during the election was, ‘Go read the cases I’ve worked on. Read the briefs I’ve written. Look at my legal reasoning skills and decide if I’m the right person.’”

For better or for worse, Murphy said, a lot of people still care about party affiliation, even in judicial races.

“If we could keep politics completely out of the judicial process, I’d be all for it. But the fact that somebody is using somebody’s party affiliation as a filter, they’re going to do it, and I’d rather them pick me because I am a Republican than they like how my name sounds, or what my gender is, or where I live or anything like that. I think it’s important that people can filter based on what they want to filter on.”

When Murphy took his oath at midnight on Jan. 1, 2017, he joined 10 other Republicans on the Court of Appeals, as well as four Democrats — a composition reflective of recent electoral gains made by Republicans in the state. Personally, Murphy doesn’t feel that politics has a place or presence on the court.

“There are going to be Republicans that hate some of the opinions that I write, and there’s going to be Democrats that hate some opinions that I write. It’s just the nature of how the courts work,” he said.

How, exactly, the courts work remains a mystery to many, especially on the appellate level.

North Carolina has three levels of trial courts — Small Claims Court, District Court and Superior Court. Cases in Small Claims Court can be automatically appealed to District Court; from District Court in civil cases — whether a case starts in District Court or Superior Court — the losing party has an automatic right to appeal to the Court of Appeals in many instances.

4 From District Court in criminal cases,

misdemeanor convictions come with the automatic right to appeal to a jury trial in the Superior Court; thus most criminal appeals come as of the Superior Court jury trial, which can go on to the Court of Appeals.

According to Murphy, the Court of Appeals handles about 4,500 petitions and motions a year, and issues about 1,700 written decisions and opinions on full-blown cases during the same time period.

“We sit in three-judge panels. It’s rotated about every six weeks,” he said, again stressing his view that politics really isn’t in play on the court despite the partisan elections that now put judges there.

“If you look at the Court of Appeals, the make up of it, and how opinions have come down over the years, you have a panel of three judges,” he said. “You don’t know how it’s going to come out based on their party affiliation. It’s not really a consideration in the vot-

ing process. Part of that is the rotation amongst the judges. You’re working with pretty much every judge, every year, on 30 to 40 cases with each judge. So the partisanship and feelings of partisanship I don’t believe really exist at the Court of Appeals.”

The panels sit in Raleigh, but occasionally, judges are empaneled in different parts of the state — something Murphy, as the only Court of Appeals judge west of WinstonSalem, hopes to promote.

Indeed, Murphy’s very presence on the court gives the most populous county west of Buncombe badly needed capitol cachet as it continues smarting from the Election Day loss of its only state legislator, Rep. Joe Sam Queen, D-Waynesville.

“I think it means that people won’t forget that we’re out here, number one,” he said.

“They won’t think the state ends at Hickory or Statesville, or even Asheville now, because

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who spoke, including property owners, Historic Preservation Commission members and a representative from the First Presbyterian Church located at the intersection of Walnut and North Main streets.

Mayor Brown said during the Dec. 13 meeting that he expected the town to take a formal position on the issue sometime soon, but it’s not clear if the town will do so on Jan. 5, or at the board’s regular meeting Jan. 10.

The public comment session for NCDOT ends Jan. 13, but a second public meeting

Be heard The following avenues are still available to those who wish to comment on Russ Avenue DOT Project U-5839. For more information on the project, visit www.ncdot.gov/projects/RussAve.

hosted by NCDOT will be held sometime in mid-2017. No final project decisions have yet been made by NCDOT, and the project is tentatively slated to begin in 2022.

“It is currently on paper to eviscerate Walnut Street,” McDarris said of his opposition to the plan. “Now is the time to get it taken off paper. The longer it stays on paper, the more the chance it becomes ingrained and this becomes reality. So that is why I’m personally fighting as hard as I can fight at this stage of the game, because this is the time to get it taken off the paper.”

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Smoky Mountain News

• The Town of Waynesville’s Historic Preservation Commission will meet at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, also at 16 S. Main St. • The Town of Waynesville’s special public meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 5, at 16 S. Main St. • The Town of Waynesville’s regularly scheduled board meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 16 S. Main St. • Public comment will be accepted by NCDOT through Jan. 13; call 828.631.1146 or email Wanda Austin at whaustin@ncdot.gov.

Book online at:

Walk-Ins Welcome

January 4-10, 2017

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER ews of a historic portion of Walnut Street’s inclusion in the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s plan for the widening of Russ Avenue in Waynesville went over with property owners like a ton of the bricks in Charles McDarris’ 90-something year old retaining wall.

McDarris owns the properties at 28 and 52 Walnut Street, both of which feature extensive historic pedigrees, painstaking renovations and restrictive covenants designed to preserve the period character of the structures, which date to the early 1900s.

Like any reasonable property owner, McDarris wants to know how NCDOT’s proposal will affect him, but he says he can’t seem to get a straight answer.

Russ Avenue DOT Project U-5839 mostly addresses projected traffic growth on Russ Avenue through the year 2040 from the Great Smoky Mountain Expressway to the railroad bridge at Walnut Street. Instead of stopping there, however, the project terminates at North Main Street, where traffic growth is projected by DOT to grow little.

McDarris says NCDOT officials have told him that the improvements won’t increase the asphalt footprint along Walnut Street, but plans presented by NCDOT at a public meeting Dec. 6 show an approximately 17foot widening that would obliterate McDarris’ wall, along with a number of century-old trees up and down the short stretch of street.

So, which is it?

McDarris and others are likely to get their answer soon — or, perhaps not.

On Dec. 28 the Town of Waynesville took the unusual step of calling a stand-alone public meeting for Jan. 5 to gather citizen input on the Russ Avenue project.

Expected to appear are DOT representatives as well as those of the engineering firm involved with the project.

That could mean that McDarris will face one of three outcomes — the answer he wants, the answer he doesn’t want, or continued confusion over the project’s footprint.

The stand-alone public meeting comes after another unusual step by the town.

About an hour’s worth of unofficial public comment took place before the board’s regular meeting Dec. 13 due to what Waynesville Mayor Gavin Brown said were complaints he and other aldermen had received about the project.

During that hour, the Walnut Street portion of the plan was universally derided by all

UTIONS L O S E R 2017 Regulahrerapy eT Massag

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Showdown looms over Russ Avenue project

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High and dry In the wake of the drought, Haywood towns besieged by water shortage search for answers

BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER s days slid by without rain last fall, and the days stacked into weeks, Neil Carpenter watched the water gauge on Jonathan Creek like the ticking hands of a doomsday clock.

Carpenter usually has 4 million gallons of water a day at his fingertips — triple what he needs to serve the 3,800 homes and businesses in greater Maggie Valley.

But his main water intake on Campbell Creek had dried up during the prolonged drought gripping the mountains, and now the back-up intake on Jonathan Creek was dropping fast. Unless rain came soon, the trajectory wasn’t pretty.

“We were within a couple weeks of taking all the stream had to offer to keep up with the demand,” said Carpenter, the director of the Maggie Valley Sanitary District, a water utility with a footprint reaching from Maggie to Jonathan Valley to Dellwood.

Across Haywood County, Canton was in the same boat — one about to be dry-docked.

Canton gets its water from the Pigeon River, with a single intake about half a mile upstream from Pisgah’s football stadium.

The Pigeon’s flow had slowed to a veritable crawl by November, dropping from its normal volume of 110 cubic feet per second to only 57 cubic feet per second.

Appealing to the public to conserve water had made a dent in demand, but as the drought wore on and the Pigeon dropped lower, it got harder to keep up. Despite ample capacity at the water plant — its can churn out 4 million gallons of treated water a day, three times the average daily demand — the problem was the intake itself.

“It’s not that we can’t pump the water in, but we suck a lot of air and dirt in with it so

January 4-10, 2017

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By the numbers Smoky Mountain News

Town of Waynesville • Customers: 6,345 • Miles of line: 143 • Daily volume: 3.4 million gallons with a peak of 4.5 million gallons in summer • Maximum capacity of water plant: 8 million gallons/day • Storage capacity: 6 million gallons of treated water and 450 million gallons of raw water • Where the water comes from: 8,000-acre preserved watershed at the head of Allens Creek feeds a 55-acre dammed lake • Turf: All of Waynesville and many areas surrounding town limits

Maggie Valley Sanitary District 6

• Customers: 3,800 • Miles of line: 106

we have to pump a lot slower and we can’t meet demand,” Canton Manager Seth Hendler-Voss said. “We know when the river drops to a certain level that we are going to experience a water shortage.”

Evergreen Packaging was in trouble, too. It pulls 35 million gallons a day directly from the Pigeon River for is manufacturing process — with 80 percent of it being returned to the river downstream of the mill, according to state withdrawal reporting. But if the river kept dropping, the mill would have to cease operations.

Clyde, which buys water wholesale from Canton, was growing more nervous by the day as well. If Canton ran short, it would naturally mean less to go around for Clyde.

But there was one water system that wasn’t struggling.

While Maggie and Canton were battening the hatches against an impending water shortage, Waynesville was barely hurting. A small but deep lake high in the mountains above town feeds Waynesville’s water lines.

Steep slopes coursing with streams and springs encircle the bowl-shaped lake, which catches the bountiful flow like a funnel.

Canton and Maggie can’t catch and store water like Waynesville. They merely siphon water out of the creek or river as it runs past their intakes. And when there’s less water running by, there’s less to siphon.

But Waynesville’s water cache — fed by a catch basin of 8,000 acres — is far less fickle.

And before long, everyone was eyeing it, wondering how to get a piece.

PRIMING THE PUMP While Waynesville is certainly the water kingpin of Haywood County, Waynesville Town Manager Rob Hites was nonetheless feeling antsy.

• Daily volume: 1.05 million gallons with a peak of 1.5 million gallons in summer and fall • Maximum capacity of water plant: 3 million gallons/day • Storage capacity: 1.560 million gallons of treated water and 0 gallons of raw water • Where the water comes from: One intake on Jonathan Creek and one intake on Campbell Creek • Turf: Maggie Valley, Jonathan Creek and parts of Dellwood

Town of Canton • Customers: 3,800 • Miles of line: 66 • Daily volume: 1.2 million gallons, with a peak of 1.7 million gallons • Maximum capacity of water plant: 4 million gallons/day. Disclaimer: the plant can’t pull more than 2 million gallons a day from the river due to its intake design,

Even in times of drought, Waynesville's water supply usually remains fat and happy thanks to a dammed up lake fed by mountain streams from an 8,000-acre preserve, protected solely to serve as the town's drinking water source. The reservoir is being eyed as an emergency source by other water systems in the county. Becky Johnson photo With half the county in a water crisis, how long would Waynesville’s supply hold up if its neighbors came knocking?

“They were very nearly running out of water,” Hites said of the other towns.

An emergency water connection — built several years ago for this very scenario — links Waynesville’s water system with Maggie Valley. With the punch of a button, Carpenter can open and shut the valves that connect the two systems.

“We can ramp it up and cut it back, and monitor it from here,” Carpenter said.

Carpenter began a regular dialog with Waynesville’s water plant to set the stage for opening the connection if need be.

“I was in constant contact with Waynesville in terms of their capacities,” Carpenter recalled. “They were in much better shape than we were and were more than willing to help be the good neighbor and were going to let us use that connection as long as they had water to give.”

Meanwhile, Clyde was eyeing Waynesville rendering the plant’s overall capacity moot.

• Storage capacity: 3.8 million gallons of treated water and 0 gallons of raw water • Where the water comes from: Pigeon River, with intake a half-mile upstream from town • Turf: All of Canton, plus surrounding area, reaching west to Clyde and north of I-40

Junaluska Sanitary District • • • •

Customers: 1,800 Miles of line: 101 Daily volume: 330,000 gallons Where the water comes from: Buys bulk water at wholesale rates from Waynesville and resells it • Storage capacity: 1.382 million gallons • Turf: This stand-alone water-and-sewer utility serves the middle of the county, reaching from Haywood Community College to the I-40 interchange on N.C. 209.

for help as well.

Clyde isn’t directly linked to Waynesville’s water system, but can tap into Waynesville’s supply by using the Junaluska Sanitary District as a bridge.

The stand-alone water and sewer utility known as JSD buys its water wholesale from Waynesville. Thanks to an old interconnection dating to the 1980s, JSD could act as a middleman to wheel water from Waynesville to Clyde.

As the drought wore on, Clyde officials reached out to Junaluska Sanitary to set the stage for opening the interconnect if the need arose.

“What we told them was ‘You tell us when,’” recalled Josh Nickol, manager of Junaluska Sanitary District.

“I think everybody in this community would do what is necessary to help their neighbor out. This was a scary scenario,” said Clyde Town Administrator Joy Garland.

Naturally, Canton officials began wonder-

S EE DRY, PAGE 8

Town of Clyde • • • •

Customers: 1,200 Miles of line: 23 Average volume: 220,000 gallons/day Where the water comes from: Buys bulk water at wholesale rates from Canton and resells it.

• Storage capacity: 400,000 gallons of treated water • Turf: Clyde area, and just outside town limits

Lake Junaluska Assembly • Customers: 894 • Daily volume: 128,043 gallons, with the winter low and summer high fluctuating from 96,000 to 175,000 gallons • Where the water comes from: Buys bulk water at wholesale rates from Waynesville and resells it • Turf: Lake Junaluska Conference Center and residential neighborhoods surrounding the lake

Cracking the water conundrum

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GAUGING THE WATER Workers at the Canton water plant diligently monitor the levels of four storage tanks.

Treated water is pumped from the plant to the tanks, which then feed the town's water lines with gravity. Becky Johnson photo

HIGH & DRY

COMMON DENOMINATOR While the drought brought water players to the table, it’s not the only crisis where connected systems would help. If a fire raged through Evergreen Packaging in Canton, the town’s water storage tanks — holding close to 4 million gallons — could be drained from a wide-open affront.

“If we had a major fire at the mill and were being sucked dry we would need a lot of water right away,” Hendler-Voss said.

“I think the entire county would suffer if we had a serious fire at the mill. Every water company has to team up to help them in the case of a serious fire,” Brown added.

While Waynesville sits in the catbird seat when it comes to water supplies, it could find the shoe on the other foot one day, needing an interconnect just as much as the other towns.

“If you put 10 or so fire trucks around a catastrophic fire you can drain a million gallon tank in an hour,” Hites said. “We could drain our tanks and our water plant couldn’t treat it fast enough to put it back in the system. It can happen to any of us — big towns and small towns. That’s the reason for an interconnected water system.”

By joining forces, water systems in Haywood County are hoping to land a state planning grant to identify solutions for the missing links.

“We want to partner as a coalition to attract grant money for an interconnect study and ultimately the projects that would provide water to all municipalities during drought events and emergency infrastructure

Smoky Mountain News

us,” Waynesville Town Manager Rob Hites said. “What we were scared about is the entire county showing up in the town board room and telling us they have to have water and they are really hurting and we are in the position of saying ‘We can’t give you all the water you are asking for.’ That’s a terrible position.”

While the drought threat has passed, the water players are committed to the work they started and hope to find solutions to future water emergencies — ranging from back-up water sources to better interconnections linking neighboring water systems.

“The idea is to have an operative plan in good times so if and when the drought comes again, we are all over it,” sais Josh Nickol, manager of Junaluska Sanitary District.

“That’s the premise of where we are going with this group. It is for the betterment of all of Haywood County.”

During a meeting of the water task force in December — it’s second one since forming in November — the county’s water players realized just how many unknowns and outliers they’re dealing with.

One of the biggest mysteries: an old water line between Canton and Clyde that’s never been used and was largely forgotten about.

Presumably, it was part of an interconnection plan three decades ago that failed to launch.

Hendler-Voss hoped the line could be resurrected. If so, Junaluska Sanitary District and Clyde could act as middlemen to wheel water from Waynesville to Canton during emergencies.

“Will the interconnect currently get water up over Radio Hill?’” Hendler-Voss posed.

Sadly, they learned the answer was no.

“Apparently, they never designed or built the booster pump that would push water through,” Hites said. “It was meant to be a

true interconnect, but it just didn’t work. It’s what’s called a dry line.”

That spells bad news for Canton.

“Canton is the one kind of out in the wilderness right now,” said Waynesville Alderman LeRoy Roberson after Hites briefed his board on the task force’s work to date.

The first order of business for the water task force is an assessment of existing water supplies. Pegging a hard and fast number isn’t easy, however.

There’s often a disconnect between the volume a water plant can handle, and what the water source puts out.

In Canton, the water plant can treat up to 4 million gallons a day, and under normal river flows, the Pigeon has that much to give.

But the real capacity is limited due to a flawed intake design.

“We have never brought that much in and never will with the design of pumps we have now,” said Mark Jones, Canton’s water plant manager.

Due to the intake hurdles, the plant can’t process more than 2 million gallons a day instead of the 4 million it’s technically capable of.

Of course, it’s all hypothetical and dependent on river flows.

“This isn’t an issue of plant capacity as much as water availability,” Hendler-Voss said.

Maggie Valley Sanitary District went through a round of drought response planning of its own less than a decade ago, following a major drought in 2007.

“When we went through that process we realized we didn’t have a great plan B,” said Neil Carpenter, manager of the Maggie water utility.

To provide a back-up, Maggie and Waynesville built a new interconnection between their systems. Waynesville was prepared to turn it on in the drought but to date it’s only been used once, following a massive storm a few years ago.

“It actually washed so much debris on our intakes that it covered them up and for a 24hour period we used that interconnect,” Carpenter said.

On paper, Maggie and Waynesville’s water systems have been linked since the 1980s.

“But to be honest it wasn’t functional,” Carpenter said.

Lacking pumps, water couldn’t actually move between the systems.

Therein lies another challenge for the task

January 4-10, 2017

BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER rom the control room of Canton’s water plant, a steady barrage of numbers flash across the computer monitors.

Chlorine readings, upstream river monitors, pumping volume, intake gauges — but the one workers track the most transmits real-time water levels from four storage tanks that stand like sentinels on the hillsides around town.

After water is sucked from the Pigeon River and treated, it’s pumped and piped to the four tanks, and from there flows out to Canton’s water customers. The tank levels rise during the night, drain out quickly during the morning shower rush, and the chore of refilling them starts over.

During the prolonged drought this fall, however, water levels in the Pigeon River fell dangerously low, taxing the water plant’s ability to keep up with the constant uphill slog to fill the tanks.

As daily briefings from the water plant grew more dire, Canton Town Manager Seth Hendler-Voss called for an emergency meeting of all the county’s water players.

The result was the formation of a countywide water task force aimed at cracking the water conundrum, hopefully finding new ways to move water supplies between Waynesville, Canton and Maggie Valley in times of need.

While it’s not apparent above ground, all five water systems in Haywood County are daisy-chained together. The valves between systems are usually closed, but in an emergency, the hatch can be opened to let water flow between them.

But some connections dating to the 1980s were poorly engineered and don’t work well, and some only work in one direction — posing a hurdle to get water from Waynesville’s well-endowed reservoir to Canton on the other end of the county.

“We are in a very fortunate position here in Waynesville, but even if in our largess we wanted to help them could we do it?”

Waynesville Mayor Gavin Brown posed.

The biggest water daddy in the county is no doubt Waynesville. Waynesville pulls its water from a dammed-up lake, providing a robust cushion in times of drought.

Despite the comparatively deep pockets of Waynesville’s 8,000-acre watershed, could it be stretched enough to give everyone what they needed?

“Would Waynesville be able to continue to provide water to their own customers if everyone else is relying on them?” HendlerVoss said.

That’s the million-dollar question, and Waynesville wants it answered as much as anyone.

“I would love to get this done when it is raining and there is no political pressure on

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Haywood water systems join forces to aid each other in times of need

failure,” Hendler-Voss said.

Joy Garland, Clyde’s town administrator, said the undertaking shows the cooperative spirit between neighboring communities.

“We all came to the table and talked about ‘OK what can we do to help us not be in this situation again? What kind of improvements could we look at for our systems so we would have some alternatives,” she said. “I don’t think that anybody that has been at the table in these conversations would not help their neighbor.”

In the past, some towns in Haywood have been prone to turf battles. But that doesn’t seem to be the case now, or when dealing with the critical need of water.

“I think we have a level of cooperation between the municipalities we may not have had. We work really well together,” HendlerVoss said.

S EE CRACKING, PAGE 9 7

ing, Canton and Clyde made the call to impose mandatory restrictions, and Waynesville — though late to the party and in far less dire straits — called for a voluntary water reductions.

“It helps send a message to the whole county that we are in this together and we are all dependent on each other. It shows solidarity,” Hendler-Voss said.

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January 4-10, 2017

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DRY, CONTINUED FROM 6 ing if it could somehow get water from Waynesville, too. Since Waynesville’s water can make it to Clyde, and Clyde normally gets its water from Canton, could the lines be reversed to push Waynesville’s water on down the road to Canton as well?

Hendler-Voss was concerned whether Waynesville would have enough to go around, however.

“If you look at what Waynesville needs for its daily usage, and then what Maggie needs and Canton and Clyde, there are only so many days they can operate before their reservoir gets down to a critical level,” Hendler-Voss said.

That was the same question on Hites’ mind in Waynesville. While Waynesville wanted to help, how much did the other towns need? And moreover, how much could Waynesville truly spare?

“When I learned how much water they all wanted and it was considerably more water than we were pumping, it took about a microsecond to realize this was not going to work,” Hites said.

Waynesville’s reservoir was dropping as well. A submerged intake for the water plant normally sits two feet below the lake’s surface. As the water level steadily sank, it dropped to just 8 inches above the intake.

By mid-November, Hendler-Voss decided it was time to sound the alarm bells. He called for a countywide meeting of all the water players in the county.

“I said, ‘We are all facing a huge threat here. Let’s get together and meet,’” HendlerVoss recalled.

STEPPING UP TO THE PLATE

Smoky Mountain News

By now, Canton and Clyde had called for voluntary water conservation, and Maggie had already triggered mandatory restrictions.

For Maggie Valley, voluntary water reductions had been in place since September.

“That was much earlier than the rest of the county,” Carpenter said. “We just weren’t getting the rain. The thunderstorms we depend on in the summer were just going right over us.”

The community embraced the voluntary reductions with gusto. Carpenter’s goal — a 5 percent reduction in water use — was blown out of the water. Daily water use dropped from an average of 1 million gallons a day in September to 850,000.

“We saw over a 10 percent in a drop in demand,” Carpenter said.

Maggie Valley’s lodging industry pooled together to cut water use — from closing down their pools to washing only full loads of linens.

“We got a lot of calls from our hotel owners saying ‘Help us. What can we do?’”

Carpenter said.

It was a promising sign, since businesses make up nearly 40 percent of Maggie’s water demand — a larger percentage than most systems.

But Carpenter was still worried going into the peak tourist month of October, when water use typically spikes by 50 percent.

Hoteliers invited Carpenter to a monthly 8

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARDS

Canton's water treatment plant moves up to 1.9 million gallons a day during peak times through its maze of pipes and pumps, turning the Pigeon River into faucet-ready water.

Becky Johnson photo

“I think everybody in this community would do what is necessary to help their neighbor out. This was a scary scenario.”

— Joy Garland, Clyde town administrator

meeting of the Haywood County Lodging Association to share strategies. There were the obvious ones, like guests forgoing fresh towels in their rooms every day.

“We are all in this together, so they’ll have to hang it up and let it dry,” Carpenter said.

But there were also the less obvious, like putting bricks in toilet tanks to displace water volume. It only saves a quart or two per flush, but cumulatively it adds up.

“Take as many flushes as some of the hotels have, and it can be significant,” Carpenter said.

Restaurants only served water if asked, and some began using paper products to avoid washing. Vacation rentals, a booming sector of Maggie’s tourism industry, were encouraged to shut down hot tubs. It was a big ask for cabin owners to disappoint guests who’d been promised a hot tub.

“The hot tub is a big draw,” Carpenter admitted. “But if we run out of water, they aren’t coming at all. It was approaching a public health issue.”

The cutbacks worked, posting a nearly 20 percent reduction in water use compared to a normal October.

But still the drought wore on, and by midNovember mandatory water restrictions kicked in. Anyone washing a car, filling a pool or watering a lawn faced a fines of up to $250 — or even a suspension of water service for repeat offenses.

As a last resort, utilities have legal authority to vet customers’ bills to see if they are meeting individual water reduction benchmarks.

“Luckily we never got to that point,” Carpenter said.

Meanwhile, Clyde was so proud of how residents responded to the call to conserve water, that it posted the results on the home

page of its website.

Average daily demand before the drought was 205,000 gallons a day. That dropped to a low of 185,000 gallons a day during the peak of mandatory conservation in late November.

“I think everybody was very diligent about it,” said Garland. “When they came in to pay their water bills, they made comments that they were using paper plates and I think the small things really added up this time.”

In Canton, water demand dropped from 1.2 million gallons a day to 1.1 million gallons. Unfortunately, the numbers were skewed due a major water line break, offsetting the overall reduction among residents.

Water restrictions were one of the talking points on the table when the countywide water task force convened before Thanksgiving. The water players crafted a plan to coordinate their water restriction schedules. Immediately following the meet-

On a well? Here’s why you should still care

BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER Statewide, about three-fourths of the population is on a public water system, but the number is far lower in the mountains.

In Haywood County, half of all households are on a well. But even for those on a well, the water supply issues faced by the towns and water systems in times of drought still matter.

The six water systems in Haywood County are critical to the economy, serving the majority of businesses and industry, not to mention schools, the hospital and churches.

The first meeting of the countywide water task force before Thanksgiving laid the challenges bare, but ultimately led to more quesw tions than answers.

Namely, how far could Waynesville’sw water reserves go to help its neighbors?

“Basically and correctly they said theA only source of emergency water in Haywoodl County is the Waynesville reservoir and we need to look at how we can wheel emer-t gency water to the towns,” Hites said. “Theyh wanted us to know we may very well be facing a crisis and we hope you’ll go back andu make some preparations to help us in at worst case scenario.”

For Canton, there was an even biggerp a unknown.

“If we needed water from Waynesville,g could we get it up over Radio Hill to fill our tanks?” Hendler-Voss asked.

Before push came to shove, however, rain came at last, quenching the drought and replenishing water supplies.

But by now, the county’s water players f were ready to roll up their sleeves and tacklep the water conundrum before the next emergency struck. The time to craft an emergency plan is now, not when an angry mob withw pitchforks is on Waynesville’s doorstepw demanding water. p “I want to do this when people aren’t saying ‘You’re killing me,’” Hites said.

The emergency countywide water task force has now morphed into a standing committee and expects to craft a countywideW water supply plan over the coming year. o “We had been talking indirectly and inde-D pendently for a long time and it made sensen to say ‘OK, let’s all pull together and talkW about how Haywood County as a whole cant work together with both sides of the county,’” Nickol said. y F In Waynesville, 750 businesses and industries use nearly as much water as the 5,700 households on the system put together.

In Maggie Valley, 90 commercial business account for nearly a third of total water usage from the Maggie Valley Sanitary District, according to state water system reporting.

The water supply landscape is unique in the mountains. In the eastern part of the state, water systems from Raleigh to Winston-Salem are interconnected.

But in the mountains, it’s common to have tiny, isolated water systems — separated by steep topography and sparsely populated countryside. As a result, water supplies in the mountain are siloed off from one another, making them more vulnerable to emergencies.

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TWSA reviews water shortage plan following drought

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER s the drought of 2016 progressed, flows of streams and rivers dwindled regionwide — and the Tuckasegee River, water source for most of Jackson County, was no exception.

The Tuckasegee Water and Sewer Authority watched as the river got lower and lower, until the amount of water being drawn from it was no longer enough to meet the area’s baseline demands. Luckily, TWSA had a silver bullet that most water systems don’t — Duke Energy had a reservoir upstream that had stopped releasing water to the river during the worst part of the drought. The electric utility isn’t required to perform mandatory releases after Oct. 20 and typically shuts down its hydropower generation over the winter.

“We asked them to go back and look at

A

CRACKING, CONTINUED FROM 7

CATBIRD SEAT

— Rob Hites, Waynesville Town Manager

a growth spurt we have no surplus for our own needs,” Hites said. “We don’t have more than that reservoir. That’s all we’ve got.

That’s the balancing act. We want to help the county grow and be good stewards, but any businessman would say he wouldn’t sell all his inventory.”

Part of the planning process would be devising an emergency contract to govern the wholesale transfer of water from one system to another. How much would Waynesville charge, and what kind of cut would Junaluska Sanitary be entitled to for wheeling the water over its lines to Clyde and Canton?

“That is all stuff we would have to work out. We are the middle guy and are an important piece of this,” Nickol said of Junaluska Sanitary. “But if and when we ever supply Clyde, it will be for an emergency situation and not to make money.”

Nonetheless, Junaluska Sanitary is making sizeable infrastructure investments on a larger trunk line along Hospital Drive — replacing an 8-inch and 6-inch line with a

— Dan Harbaugh, TWSA executive director

in the making before it had an impact on us and beginning to do education for the public earlier is one of the things we will emphasize in that water shortage response plan.”

Under voluntary water conservation, people are asked to reduce their water use by 10 percent. But getting the word out and helping people understand what 10 percent reduction means in practice — how many laundry loads, dishwasher runs or toilet flushes does that translate to? — takes time.

The other takeaway is the need to make

HIGH & DRY new16-inch line — and it would be nice to recoup some of that investment if its new line is pressed into service as an interconnection.

NOT A NEW IDEA A couple of years ago, Junaluska Sanitary District pitched the idea of an interconnection with Clyde, but it failed to rally support from the necessary water players. Canton and Waynesville — the two water suppliers whose water Junaluska Sanitary would be wheeling back and forth if the interconnect came to fruition — were skeptical of the motive.

Some postulated that Junaluska Sanitary was pursuing the interconnection in a strategic move to position itself as the middleman in control of the water wheelhouse.

Adding to the confusion, an old interconnection between Clyde and Junaluska Sanitary already existed, but had apparently been forgotten about in Junaluska Sanitary District’s pursuit of a new interconnection.

The institutional knowledge of the old interconnection dating to the 1980s had been largely been lost.

Garland said she for one was well aware of the old interconnection, but Clyde wasn’t looped in to the discussion or she would have volunteered the information.

“We were not aware or approached about them trying to get the interconnect,” Garland said.

Garland said the interconnection with Clyde has only been used three times to her knowledge.

“The last time was in 2005 or 2006, when Canton had the scare of the mysterious bar-

the system more watertight.

“We need to make sure if we have leaks in the system, we identify them as quickly as possible and fix them as quickly as possible,” Harbaugh said.

Over the past three to six months, the amount of unaccounted-for water — that includes leaks as well as things like unrecorded fire hydrant releases — has increased by a little over 1 percent, which translates to about 10,000 gallons per day. Overall, about 11 percent of the system’s 1 million-gallon-per-day production goes missing. Finding and fixing those problems now — rather than scrambling to do so after a drought hits — will be a priority going forward, Harbaugh said.

“Usually when leaks like this occur they tend to build over time,” he said. “The big leaks you can find real quick. It’s these little leaks that build up over time and you begin to see your water losses accumulate.”

Those small leaks can be hard to pinpoint, however, given that TWSA oversees 70 miles of water lines.

Nevertheless, Harbaugh said, “We need to do a better job of finding and solving the leaks out there in the system.”

rels in the river. They notified us and we turned off our connection with them and turned on the emergency interconnect with Junaluska,” Garland recalled.

For two or three days, the people of Clyde drank water all the way from Waynesville’s reservoir, being wheeled across the pipes of Junaluska Sanitary to reach Clyde’s doorstep.

That was 10 years ago, however. After rediscovering its existence in 2015, Clyde and Junaluska wondered if it would still work. So they tested it out last spring — first unlocking a metal trap door to an underground concrete vault, then climbing inside and manually cranking a wheel to open the valves between Junaluska Sanitary and Clyde. It fired right up.

Garland attempted to piece together the who, what, when and why of the old interconnection.

“I think the ultimate goal was to have a countywide interconnect,” Garland said.

“That’s the same goal we are working on right now. We have to have a solid back-up plan.”

Indeed, the idea on the table today isn’t a new one, Hendler-Voss agreed.

“This is not a new proposition but the drought has given each municipality pause and really brought this need back to full life,” Hendler-Voss said. “We’re focused on what’s the approach we need now to make this project a reality.”

What’s different this time is that the water players in the county are pursuing the interconnection jointly, with everyone in the driver’s seat together.

“That’s why we decided to get together now as a coalition and make sure we are all doing if for the right reasons and get off on the right foot,” Hendler-Voss said. “It is not about making money or selling water for cheaper rates. We are doing this for the sake of emergencies and that’s it.”

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Smoky Mountain News

Water hasn’t yet proven lucrative for Waynesville, despite selling 450,000 gallons of bulk water a day to Junaluska Sanitary District and Lake Junaluska Assembly. The neighboring water systems buy water from Waynesville at a wholesale rate and resell it to their own customers at a mark-up.

The bulk sales brought in $550,000 last year, according to calculations by Waynesville Finance Officer Eddie Caldwell.

There’s not a lot of profit off the sales. The town was able to net a surplus of $114,00 off its water system last year to fund town projects, but most of the money it makes on wholesale water contracts goes back into the water system itself.

To Hites, the question isn’t how much Waynesville could make from selling water, but how much it can spare.

“I think one of the biggest calculations that Waynesville will have to do is determine based on our projected growth how much water we should retain for our own customers and how much we should sell,” Hites said.

Junaluska Sanitary District is moving Waynesville’s water out N.C. 209 to communities north of I-40, and as far as Clyde.

“When you are looking at selling water to a water system that is serving growth 10 miles away along I-40, when Waynesville has

“We don’t have more than that reservoir. That’s the balancing act. We want to help the county grow and be good stewards, but any businessman would say he wouldn’t sell all his inventory.”

“Beginning to do education for the public earlier is one of the things we will emphasize in [the] water shortage response plan.”

January 4-10, 2017

force: to analyze the existing landscape of pipes, pumps and tanks, and ultimately determine where the gaps are.

“We need a hydraulic model of all the water systems in the county to see how we can wheel large amounts of water from place to place,” Hites said.

their generation plan and do daily releases to use those facilities so we could have the water we needed,” said Dan Harbaugh, executive director of TWSA. Duke Energy was “real gracious,” Harbaugh said, scheduling releases that prevented Jackson County from going into mandatory water conservation — instead, the county was able to remain under the less intrusive voluntary water conservation measures. Without the cooperation of Duke, Harbaugh said, “we would have been in a world of hurt.”

Finally, rain returned to the region, and compared to other water systems Harbaugh feels that TWSA’s service area came out pretty well. TWSA draws from a large basin for its water supply and is not dependent on groundwater or stream flows, as some other water systems are. Nevertheless, the drought was severe enough to prompt TWSA to evaluate its water shortage response plan, catching any shortcomings before the next major drought materializes.

“The big thing for us is to look at this possibly earlier,” Harbaugh said. “This situation with drought was really several months

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Duke Energy releases pivotal to navigating dry year

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Community Health Center to open in Sylva Good Samaritan Clinic will become part of Blue Ridge Health

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ealth services emanating from the Good Samaritan building in Sylva are set to expand this year as Good Sam moves under the umbrella of Hendersonville-based Blue Ridge Community Health Services.

In December, Blue Ridge learned that it had landed a $650,000-per-year federal grant to open a health center in Sylva, enough money for the new center to serve 3,800 patients annually — more than six times the number currently served by Good Sam. “We’ve gotten great encouragement from everybody,” Rebecca Mathis, director of the Good Samaritan Clinic of Jackson County, said of the coming change. “It looks like it’s going to be a really good thing. The staff is excited.”

Since its inception in 2001, Good Sam has been an integral part of Jackson County’s medical community, working to care for those who are uninsured and simply cannot afford medical treatment. But, like most free clinics, it’s lived hand-to-mouth since its founding. According to Mathis, there’s just

January 4-10, 2017

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no way for Good Sam to meet the need that exists in Jackson County without the help of a larger organization, like Blue Ridge.

The $650,000 grant, called an Access Point Grant, comes from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. It’s guaranteed for two years, and in the third year the program will roll into Blue Ridge’s overall grant request, which has met success in every three-year grant cycle that’s come in the organization’s 53 years. The terms of the grant stipulate that Blue Ridge must open the health center within 120 days of the award — in this case, by mid-April.

Grant funding is tied to the Affordable Care Act, whose future is uncertain given the results of the November election. However, Blue Ridge’s chief development officer Milton Butterworth said that community health centers have long enjoyed bipartisan support from even “the biggest opponents of something like the Affordable Care Act,” so while there’s always potential for change to come from the federal level, “we’re pretty confident that this funding won’t be affected by the change in administration.”

The $650,000 will be enough to serve the 3,800 patients that the center is expected to draw after an initial two-year ramp-up period, but Blue Ridge could seek additional funding from other sources if demand eventually outgrows the funding.

HAYWOOD COUNTY

Smoky Mountain News

Local Program Committee Meeting at the Waynesville Recreation Center

January 16th at 6:00 PM All persons interested in being a part of this committee are strongly encouraged to attend, promote, enlist other volunteers, and discuss major program needs

WAYNESVILLE 10

Feel free to share on your social media to help recruit anyone interested in being on the committee. Please make plans to attend and bring others who wish to make a commitment to our Haywood County Special Olympics Program.

PARKS AND RECREATION 828.456.2030 or email tpetrea@waynesvillenc.gov

Currently, Good Sam is funded by a hodgepodge of grants and allocations from local governments. Four of its five full-time staff and two of its three part-time staff are grant-funded. But the staffing and the budget simply aren’t enough to keep up with the demand that’s out there, Mathis said.

Evidence of that is the jump in patient numbers after a Golden LEAF grant that Western Carolina University landed brought a fulltime provider to Good Sam. In 2014, before the position was added, Good Sam saw 427 unduplicated patients for 877 visits. By contrast, over the 12 months ending Nov. 30, 2015, — after the position was added — the clinic saw 598 people for 2,188 visits.

Good Sam offers care only to people who do not have insurance. However, Blue Ridge will serve the full range of patients, including uninsured, insured and low-income people on Medicare and Medicaid. Currently, patients at Good Sam don’t pay anything for the services, though wait times are longer than at a typical doctor’s office. Blue Ridge, on the other hand, uses a sliding scale for payment based on patient income, with a $25 fee at the lowest end of the scale.

When Blue Ridge and Good Sam announced plans for the health care center last summer the $25 minimum fee was criticized as too high for Good Sam’s poorest patients to afford, but Jennifer Henderson of Blue Ridge responded that patients would be seen regardless of their ability to pay. The $25 fee would not be a barrier to care, she said.

With the transition to Blue Ridge will come additional staffing to accommodate a larger patient load. The organization will hire more family medicine providers and will also add some specialty functions, such as a psychiatric doctor and a pharmacy. Meanwhile, Blue Ridge intends to keep the staff members currently employed by Good Sam. “They’re doing great work and they have great people, so we’re excited for those folks to continue to be friendly faces for the patients,” said Butterworth.

Good Sam itself won’t disappear, however. The organization will remain as a program

of Blue Ridge focused on wraparound services such as coordinating case management and medication assistance.

It’s a similar setup to what’s happened in Haywood County, where Blue Ridge opened a clinic this summer, but not identical. The Good Samaritan Clinic of Haywood opted to remain a separate organization with offices next door to Blue Ridge. When Blue Ridge opened, medical providers for Good Sam went to work for Blue Ridge, but employees focused on the wraparound services stayed with Good Sam to support Blue Ridge’s endeavors.

Jackson’s Good Sam Clinic, by contrast, is opting to go full-force under the Blue Ridge umbrella.

“We felt like we could be even stronger if we did it all together,” Mathis said. “That’s what we’re doing is taking the clinic completely under and into the Blue Ridge Health family.”

This will entail some planning, such as the task of getting grant dollars currently awarded to Good Sam turned over to Blue Ridge.

But Mathis said she expects that process to go smoothly, aided by the fact that Blue Ridge and Good Sam work with many of the same granting organizations.

Both Mathis and Butterworth said they expect the transition to be just about seamless.

“There’s always a little bit of bumpiness in that transition, but we’ve been pretty successful at turning the lights off the evening before, turning the lights on the next day, and having it be a fairly seamless experience for the patient,” Butterworth said.

The fact that the location, as well as the personnel, will stay the same should aid in that seamlessness. The building that Good Sam occupies on Hospital Road is owned by Harris Regional Hospital, which allows the clinic space free of charge. The hospital will continue to provide the space and had even offered funding to start the Blue Ridge clinic if the Access Point grant didn’t pan out.

“That’s what a community health center always hopes for is to have that level of relationship with the local hospital, and we’re very fortunate in Jackson County that Harris gets that,” Butterworth said.

Board to discuss public funding for art program

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ylva’s town leaders were so excited to see the number of applications they received from prospective members of a public art committee they’ve spent the last half year working to form that they considered expanding the number of seats available on the committee.

“I just hate to turn people away that want to get involved,” said Sylva Commissioner David Nestler, noting that even at that very town meeting there were no town citizens in attendance, save municipal employees and the press.

The town received eight applications for the five seats, all of them — according to board members — well qualified to tackle the task of bringing public art to the streets of Sylva. Multiple board members spoke up in favor of expanding the size of the board to accommodate the response, especially considering that there is strength in numbers when it comes to volunteer boards.

“On boards like this it’s incredibly rare that everybody shows up,” Nestler said.

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— Greg McPherson, Sylva commissioner

Sylva has established a public art fund to collect donations toward art purchases. To donate, mail a check with “Public Art Fund” in the memo line to Town of Sylva, 83 Allen Street, Sylva, N.C. 28779.

Contributions can also be dropped off in person at town hall. offering a strong voice of support in board discussions on the topic. Public art fosters community pride, McPherson has said, and spurs economic development by making downtown a destination for locals and tourists alike.

There’s been a lot of pointing over the mountain toward Waynesville, whose robust public art program has made the downtown iconic among mountain communities.

The 10-member Waynesville Public Art Commission develops proposals for projects, selects artists and fundraises to cover the costs.

In Waynesville, all the money for artwork comes from grants and private donations, not from taxpayer dollars. However, the commission does apply for town funding each year to cover expenses like signs, insurance and maintenance — though not purchase costs — and has received $5,000 each of the past two years.

Sylva created a public art fund that would allow people to donate toward art purchases, but some members of the board — such as Nestler and McPherson — feel that it would be appropriate for taxpayer funds to be used toward art purchases as well. Hensley has staunchly opposed that concept in discussions held during various board meetings in 2016.

Commissioner Mary Gelbaugh, meanwhile, has said she supports the concept of town funding for art purchases but is cautious as to the feasibility of it.

Sylva’s budget is a perennially tight one.

Even after raising the property tax rate by more than 40 percent last year, the town still found itself cutting corners on some budget needs.

Until talks for the 2017-18 budget are underway, it will be difficult to guess how much money, if any, the board might be comfortable with appropriating.

Smoky Mountain News

“I serve on some other boards and a lot of people don’t show up,” agreed Commissioner Barbara Hamilton. “Seriously, they don’t.

Sometimes you might not have all five or all seven when you have a meeting.”

The discussion seemed to be headed in the direction of an expanded committee board when Commissioner Harold Hensley brought up the issue of geographic representation.

The ordinance creating the public art committee called for five members, three from the town of Sylva and two from Jackson County.

However, four of the applicants were from the county and three were from the town. The eighth applicant was Commissioner Greg McPherson — when discussing an expanded committee size, commissioners spoke only of the seven applicants who were not already members of the town board.

“You’re representing the town and you should have one more on it,” Hensley said.

“That’s a good point,” Nestler said. “I’d rather have, if it’s going to be seven, four

Donate for art

January 4-10, 2017

“I hope that this becomes a priority for this board in the next budget session and that this committee has some capital to work with.”

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Sylva appoints public art committee

from the city limits.”

Ultimately, the board decided to appoint five members with the understanding that the board could be expanded in the future if that measure seemed appropriate. Rachel Bridgers, Kendall Rohovit, Glenda Hensley, Preston Springer and Meredith Whitfield will serve as the first members of the new public art committee.

As the board approved the appointments, McPherson asked that members start thinking about the next steps in getting art into downtown Sylva.

“I hope that this becomes a priority for this board in the next budget session and that this committee has some capital to work with,” he said.

McPherson, himself an artist, has been pushing for aesthetic improvements to town since he was elected in November 2015. In particular, he’s made it a priority to get a public art program started in town, with Nestler

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news

WCU to form school for primary grades State law requires eight UNC institutions to start ‘lab schools’

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER estern Carolina University will soon be opening a school serving primary grades — likely in Jackson County — after a state mandate passed this summer goes into effect.

The appropriations act that the state legislature passed in July required that the University of North Carolina system designate eight of its 17 institutions to start laboratory schools, the purpose of which would be to develop innovative ways of teaching and to aid education programs for teachers and administrators.

“Western has both of those — it has a teacher prep program and a school administration program,” said Dale Carpenter, dean of the College of Education and Allied Professions. “One of the criteria for where they would operate would be geographic diversity in the state, so we’re out here in the western part of the state and we have an excellent education prep program. I think we were an easy school to approach.”

January 4-10, 2017

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DETAILS NOT YET DECIDED

Smoky Mountain News

The law says that the lab schools must teach students in any of the grades from kindergarten through eighth — though they don’t have to cover all those grades — and be located in counties where the state designates at least 25 percent of the public schools as low-performing. They’re to be governed by the university board of trustees with an advisory board appointed. Enrollment would be voluntary, with funding to come from the per-pupil funding that the state would otherwise pay to the school district the student attended before.

It’s a lot to plan for, and for WCU the timeline is likely to be a short one.

“Of the eight system schools there are going to be two waves,” Shea Browning, associate general counsel for WCU, told the Board of Trustees’ Academic Affairs and Personnel Committee at its December meeting. “One group is supposed to open up their school in 2017 and the other in 2018.

We have been told informally that we’re in the first group.”

That’s not official, however, Carpenter said. Neither, at this point, is anything else aside from the fact that WCU will be starting a school in compliance with the legislation.

The task includes everything from determining a location to devising a course of study to admitting students to hiring teachers and 12 administrators. The responsibility for all of

Western Carolina University.

A Shot Above photo

these functions would fall at the feet of the university’s Board of Trustees.

“We’re just talking about what it could possibly look like, what we think the biggest needs are and our biggest strengths,” Carpenter said.

A more detailed announcement is expected later this month.

The lab school could be a standalone facility, but it could also be a school within a school, making use of existing Jackson County Public Schools structures. It could serve just one grade level, or it could serve all nine. It could be staffed completely by licensed teachers, or it could use the leeway afforded in the legislation to hire only 50 percent licensed teachers.

The school doesn’t even have to be in Jackson County, necessarily. There are two counties in WCU’s service area that meet the 25 percent low performance threshold — Jackson and McDowell.

“One of the criteria for where they would operate would be geographic diversity in the state, so we’re out here in the western part of the state and we have an excellent education prep program. I think we were an easy school to approach.”

— Dale Carpenter, dean of the College of Education and Allied Professions

“Obviously if we were to do it, Jackson works best for us, so we’re talking with them but nothing has been decided,” Carpenter said.

Both WCU and Jackson Schools are speaking positively of the process thus far, with Carpenter calling the lab school concept a “win-win.”

FUNDING AND TIMELINES However, that doesn’t mean there’s not any hesitation about the endeavor. On the WCU side, there’s question as to whether the funding will be sufficient to cover the mandate.

“Right now the model for paying for all this is a per-pupil model,” Browning told committee members. “The counties get a certain amount of funds for every student that goes to the school. Now we would get those funds, which is all well and good except that it doesn’t really pay for what the state wants to happen.”

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While per-pupil funding makes up a significant chunk of the school system’s budget, it’s not all of it. The school system also gets local funding from the county, some federal dollars, and state money outside of the perpupil amount.

If a student transfers from Jackson Schools to the WCU lab school, then Jackson Schools would no longer get the per-pupil funding it had previously received for that child. Of course, the school system would also no longer have to educate that child, but not all costs decrease in direct proportion to the student population. Buildings still need to be heated, grounds still need to be maintained, and a significant number of students would have to leave before staffing levels could change. This is a challenge that North Carolina public schools have been facing more and more in recent years, as increased diversity of public education offerings — like charter schools and online schools — splinter funding from the main public system.

Browning stressed to the trustees’ committee that maintaining the university’s relationship with Jackson Schools as lab school planning unfolds will be a priority.

“We have a great relationship with Jackson County, and no one wants that relationship hurt,” Browning said. “The law says we’re going to do certain things, but we’re going to do everything we can to ensure that relationship remains positive.”

The short planning timeline presents yet another challenge. The act containing the mandate was passed in July. After that, the UNC system had to decide which eight schools should host a lab school. And there hasn’t yet been a formal word on whether WCU will be required to open its school in August 2017 or in 2018.

“We are aware that it’s not a lot of time, and that’s why we are going full-steam ahead,” Carpenter said.

There are many decisions and logistics to be worked out before a school can open, but the short timeline also poses a challenge for recruitment. Because attendance at the lab school will be voluntary, its success will partially depend on community interest surging high enough to bring in students.

“It is going to be important that we have enough time to communicate with our community and generate enough interest to have enough numbers to sustain this project,” said Jackson Schools Superintendent Mike Murray.

CONFIDENCE IN THE OUTCOME

Both WCU and Jackson Schools have expressed confidence that their collaboration will produce a final product that will ultimately benefit students and educators alike.

“We are excited about the possibilities of continuing our collaborative relationship with our Western Carolina University educational partners,” said Murray.

“With this process we will have an excellent product,” WCU Provost Alison MorrisonShetlar told the trustee committee. “We are working hard to make sure this is meeting the needs of the students in our area.”

Currently, WCU has between 400 and 500 students who seek out field experiences in public schools throughout the western region. Carpenter said he still believes it’s important for education students to experience a diversity of school settings, but he sees opportunity in this chance to really invest in one particular school, allowing the faculty to be more engaged and for educational innovation to unfold. The lower teacher-to-student ratio at the lab school would also be a huge benefit, he said.

“We think it would really be a win-win for everybody,” Carpenter said. “A win for WCU, a win for Jackson County Schools, a win for the kids.”

Harris Women’s Care will host a ‘Woman to Woman’ event titled ‘Health, Hope and Happiness thru Midlife and Beyond’ at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12 at Harris Women’s Care at 70 The Village Overlook across the street from Harris Regional Hospital, led by nurse practitioner Kathy Walsh. Walsh sees patients of all ages at Harris Women’s Care.

The informal discussion will focus on those issues women experience beginning at midlife and how to stay healthy throughout each phase.

For information and to RSVP call 828.631.8894.

An entirely new camera system. The brightest, most colorful iPhone display ever.

The fastest performance and best battery life in an iPhone. Water and splash resistant.* And stereo speakers. Every bit as powerful as it looks—this is iPhone 7.

*iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus are splash, water, and dust resistant and were tested under controlled laboratory conditions with a rating of IP67 under IEC standard 60529. Splash, water, and dust resistance are not permanent conditions, and resistance might decrease as a result of normal wear. Do not attempt to charge a wet iPhone; refer to the user guide for cleaning and drying instructions. Liquid damage not covered under warranty. Things we want you to know: New Line, Retail Installment Contract and Device Protection+ (DP+) required. Credit approval also required. A $25 Device Activation Fee applies. A Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee (currently $1.82/line/month) applies; this is not a tax or gvmt. required charge. Additional fees (including Device Connection Charges), taxes, terms, conditions and coverage areas apply and may vary by plan, service and phone. Offers valid at participating locations only and cannot be combined. See store or uscellular.com for details. Device Protection+: Enrollment in a DP+ Plan is required for this promotion. The minimum monthly price for DP+ is $8.99 per month per Smartphone. A service fee/deductible per approved claim applies. You may cancel DP+ anytime. Property insurance coverage is underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida. The Service Contract Obligor is Federal Warranty Service Corporation in all states, except in CA (Sureway, Inc.) and OK (Assurant Service Protection, Inc.). All these companies operate under the trade name Assurant. Limitations and exclusions apply. For more information, see an associate for a DP+ brochure. Kansas Customers: In areas in which U.S. Cellular receives support from the Federal Universal Service Fund, all reasonable requests for service must be met. Unresolved questions concerning services availability can be directed to the Kansas Corporation Commission Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at 1-800-662-0027. Limited-time offer. Trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners. ©2016 U.S. Cellular

Smoky Mountain News

Hospital to host ‘Woman to Woman’ event

Switch now to get 7GB of data per line for only $49 a month.

Plus, a strong signal in the Middle of Anywhere.

January 4-10, 2017

Lake Junaluska has announced new leadership of the Lake Junaluska Singers, a choral group that has been part of Lake Junaluska’s history for more than 60 years.

Mary Wannamaker Huff began as the interim director of the Lake Junaluska Singers on Jan. 1.

Huff lives in New York City with her husband, Andrew Henderson, and two sons, but she also owns a home at Lake Junaluska. Huff graduated cum laude from Furman University in 1999 and received a Master of Music degree in 2001 from Yale University. She furthered her post-graduate studies in music education at Westminster Choir Mary Wannamaker College, specializing in Huff the training of children’s choirs.

“Lake Junaluska has always valued excellence in sacred music: in choral music and organ music, and by supporting young people singing. These are the very things that I have built my career around and what I love the most,” said Huff.

As Huff assumes her duties as interim director, Kathy McNeil joins her as the associate director of the Lake Junaluska Singers.

McNeil received a Bachelor of Music in Education and Master of Music in Organ Performance from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey. She also is the organist and choir director at Grace Church in the Mountains in Waynesville.

The Lake Junaluska Singers were formed in 1954, and their legacy includes national and international performances for conferences, dignitaries and major events. Their music ranges from classical choral and contemporary works to gospel, folk, traditional hymns and musical theater styles.

Details about the Lake Junaluska Singers 2017 concert series can be found at lakejunaluska.com/singers.

Great iPhone meets great network. iPhone 7 on U.S. Cellular.®

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Interim director of Lake Junaluska Singers hired

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Bryson City Bicycles receives small business grant WNC's Largest Selection of Granite & Quartz.

Solid Surface Specialists

62 Communications Dr., Waynesville • Appointments Suggested

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January 4-10, 2017

(828) 452-4747 WWW.SSS-TOPS.COM

14

Plans to invest in business, community

riders love us because we’re engaging, can fix anything, and carry all the cool new stuff. Having a woman co-owner on the sales floor also lends a softer side to a traditionally male dominated industry.”

Cutler says her greatest challenge as a business owner has been operating a retail business in a small town with a seasonal, tourism-based economy. Industry statistics show it takes a population of 10,000 to keep a bike shop viable, but Bryson City’s population is about 1,200.

The good news is that 85 percent of the shop’s business comes from tourists and 75 percent of its annual revenue is made in six months. The bad news is those tourists are spread out across the world, which makes

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ryson City Bicycles will use a $20,000 grant to expand its online presence and to provide a fleet of bicycles for Swain County High School.

Shop owner Diane Cutler recently accepted the check after competing to win in the Working Forward Small Business Awards, a program launched by Synchrony Financial to recognize the big impact small businesses have in their communities.

“We were so moved by the response to this contest, and by the passion that our partners have in wanting to make a positive impact on the people in the communities where they do business,” said Glenn Marino, executive vice president and CEO, Payment Solutions, Synchrony Financial.

“These stories were inspiring, and truly shined a Andy Zivinsky and Diane Cutler of Bryson City Bicycles accept bright light on the impora $20,000 check from Synchrony Financial among friends, tance of small businesses customers, family and community members. Donated photo in local communities and the commitment these owners have to improving marketing efforts difficult, and the business lives, a value also shared by Synchrony has to scrape by the other six months of the Financial in our Purpose Statement.” year.

Bryson City Bicycles was one of five “Our market is somewhat static, relying small businesses across the country selected on the whims of vacationers to define our to receive the grant. Synchrony Financial annual fiscal outcome,” Cutler said. “We received more than 1,100 entries in just six recognize that we need a reliable year-round weeks, and a panel of judges determined revenue stream. Our research has convinced the winners based on the criteria. us that e-commerce is the answer.”

Cutler plans to use the proceeds to With only two employees, Bryson City establish an e-commerce platform for her Bicycles lacked both the in-house resources shop, and also chose to use half of the winand up-front capital to make the leap to the nings to purchase a fleet of mountain bikes next level without the grant funding. Cutler for the local high school where many famiestimates that the e-commerce addition has lies cannot afford bicycles, as part of an outthe potential to increase sales by 25 percent by door recreation program. reaching a year-round, nationwide audience.

Cutler said her small bike shop has beat The remaining $10,000 will be used to the odds by staying open for seven years — purchase a fleet of bicycles for Swain 85 percent of bike shops fail within three County High School students. After a few years — and has even been honored with years, the school can sell the bikes at a four national industry awards for excellence major discount to students and use that over the past three years. money to roll into the purchase of new “Giving back to our community and wholesale bikes through Bryson City being involved with local and national advoBicycles to keep the program going. cacy has been part of our business model “Our school district’s wellness director and contributes to our success,” she said. runs an outdoor recreation program for stuWhile Cutler says bike shops are notoridents and staff and is thrilled at the ous for being exclusive to certain demoprospect of adding mountain biking to the graphics, she vowed to be a resource for all program,” Cutler said. “This award will proriders — women and men, young and old, vide outdoor, athletic opportunities to kids experienced and novice riders. without means or who don’t engage in tra“New riders and not so buff individuals ditional school sports. It will be a great way love us because we’re attentive, informative to foster skills development, confidence and and make them feel good instead of embarkeep kids healthy.” rassed or foolish,” Cutler said. “Enthusiast

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Community Almanac

Smoky Mountain News

Quilting group donates to sheriff’s office Members of the Blue Ridge Mountain Quilt Guild in Canton stopped by the Haywood County Sheriff ’s Office recently to drop off some unique gifts to help kids caught in tough situations.

Traci Hoglen and Lisa Mundy Bell with the nonprofit group presented the sheriff ’s office with 26 machine-quilted, hand bound quilts that deputies will carry in their cars. In the event they are called to a scene where children might need comfort, the quilt can make them feel a little more at ease.

“These quilts will be wrapped around a child — maybe a child who was in a car accident or whose house has burned. The idea these will help children and maybe give them comfort is what really motivated us,” said Hoglen.

ALSO:

Awards given to Waynesville employees

Nomination forms are available at the Haywood Jackson Volunteer Center at 81 Elmwood Way, or email John at jchicoine@mountainprojects.org.

Moved by the modest requests of two local families, employees at Southwestern Community College’s Macon Campus donated enough money to ensure an abundance of goodies would be placed under a couple of Christmas trees this holiday season.

SCC faculty and staff members purchased toys, games, clothes, jackets and more than $200 in food gift cards. That was in addition to the requested necessities like blankets and bedding.

Macon Program for Progress helped SCC identify the families. www.mppnhs.org.

Waynesville employees were recognized for their dedication to providing services to town residents and visitor at the annual Employee Appreciation Luncheon.

Kyle Cook, water treatment superintendent and Marvin Crawford, assistant superintendent for streets and sanitation, were both recognized as Employees of the Year for 2016. Both men are long serving employees with 33 and 27 years of service respectively.

Wellness Committee Chairman and Town Tax Collector James Robertson and committee member Jeff Stines presented several wellness awards including the Wellness Employee of the Year. Don Elliott, watershed attendant, was presented with the award for his positive lifestyle changes and subsequent weight loss.

Roger Patterson, chief water treatment plant supervisor, received the “All In” award for earning the most wellness points in one year.

Haywood school employees recognized

The Fund for Haywood County has announced $56,100 in People in Need grants to local nonprofit organizations providing critical services for economically disadvantaged people.

The grants were made in partnership with The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC) and include $3,000 to Clothes to Kids of Haywood County to support the purchase of shoes for children in low-income households through the All God’s Children Need Shoes project; $20,000 to Community Kitchen to support construction of two classrooms for the Building Classrooms & Futures at the Kitchen project; $3,600 to Fines Creek Community Association to assist the Community Association’s MANNA Pantry with utility costs and supplemental food for more than 60 families; $20,000 to Haywood Habitat for Humanity to purchase a ReStore box truck for donation pick-ups and $9,500 to Thickety Community Park for the renovation of a building to be used as a community center. www.FundForHaywoodCounty.org or visit www.cfwnc.org.

• The first monthly meeting of the Beaverdam Community Center will be held at 7 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 9. The guest speaker will be Jill Martin, director of The Haywood House, an adult care facility. Call 828.648.0552 or email a-jsellars@att.net.

• A free acupuncture clinic for Haywood County veterans to help with effects of PTSD will be held at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, Jan. 4, 11 and 18 and at 10 a.m.

Saturday Jan. 28, at Waynesville Wellness, 1384 Sulphur Springs Rd., Waynesville. 828.356.5577.

SCC employees give to local families

Fund for Haywood gives $56,100 in grants

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Volunteer center accepting nominations The Haywood Jackson Volunteer Center is now taking nominations for North Carolina’s Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service.

The Haywood Jackson Volunteer Center will select nominated volunteers in a host of categories to receive the Haywood County Volunteer of the Year that will then be sent to the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism to be considered for the North Carolina Volunteer of the Year Medallion Award.

Applications need to be returned to the Volunteer Center by Jan. 17 to be considered.

Haywood County will celebrate our volunteers in a ceremony during National Volunteer Week in April 2017. The center’s volunteers submitted 19,000 hours of service in 2016, just a fraction of volunteer service in Haywood County.

The Haywood County Schools Foundation recently recognized employees celebrating five, 10, 15, and 20 years of service to Haywood County Schools with a $100 gift card.

“The Foundation is proud to honor the integral role our employees play in making Haywood County Schools one of the top performing districts in the state,” Haywood County Schools Foundation Executive Director Jenny Wood Valliere said. “Our students’ success is directly related to these employees, and we are grateful that they choose to work for Haywood County Schools.”

This year, 120 employees were surprised with gift cards.

Community Foundation awards local grants The Haywood County Community Foundation board of advisors provided local grant awards to Clothes To Kids of Haywood County, Inc., Haywood County Gleaners, The Community Kitchen and The Good Samaritan Clinic of Haywood County.

Dangerfield thanked the community for its support of the Haywood County Community Foundation. “These grants are important to our community and our quality of life,” said Board President Clay Dangerfield. “Critical programs would not be possible without the generosity of many individuals and organizations that have supported Haywood County’s community fund.”

The Haywood County Community Foundation is an affiliate of the North Carolina Community Foundation. Contributions can be mailed to the North Carolina Community Foundation, P.O. Box 401, Mars Hill, NC 28754. Contributions can also be made at nccommunityfoundation.org.

• A Multiple Sclerosis support group, which meets at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at The Jackson County Senior Center in Sylva, will also begin meeting at 5:30 p.m. on the second Thursday in the conference room at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva starting Jan. 12.

828.293.2503.

• The annual Mardi Gras Ball, a fundraiser for the Haywood County Schools Foundation, will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Laurel Ridge Country Club.

Guardian ad Litem volunteers needed The 30th District of NC Courts Guardian ad Litem program is looking to recruit and train volunteers to serve in the seven most western counties to be the voice for foster children in court system.

Guardian ad Litem volunteers work independent from Social Services investigating the case to advocate for not only the child's wants and needs, but also most importantly their best interests.

Volunteer advocates work with an attorney to form a plan that ensures these children are placed in a safe, permanent home. For more information or to sign up for training, call 828.349.2409 or visit www.ncgal.org.

Haywood animal shelter receives grant The North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association has awarded the Friends of the Haywood County Animal Shelter a $2,500 grant for equipment.

Grant funds will be a digital veterinary scale, durable beds for the dogs and cats, and “cat dens” for fearful cats.

“We are very grateful to the NCVMA for awarding this grant to Haywood County. The grant will make our operations more efficient and allow us to purchase beds to make the animals more comfortable, now and as we transition to the new shelter next year,” stated Doyle Teague, director of the Haywood County Animal Shelter.

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Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

It’s 2017, let’s talk about something else N

their age should strive for. I’m a “live and let live” type person, and so am reluctant to offer advice on such an open-ended question. But they asked.

“You’ve got to create the life of your dreams,” I told them.

Income and stability will become more important as you age, but if you don’t do what is in your heart while in your 20s, it’s likely you won’t ever do it.

Someone once told me it’s better to regret doing something that turned out to be a mistake than to regret doing nothing at all.

Those words of advice, I believe, aren’t that different from what past Editor generations of Americans may have heard.

While each family is unique in their circumstances and their dynamic, we all want our children to live the life of their dreams. My wife, Lori, and I were two who found our careers later than most, and so we have encouraged our children to adventure for a few years before settling down.

That career will be much more meaningful if you feel like you’ve lived a little before settling in.

My father probably didn’t hear language like that from his dad, but in his own way that’s what he did. He was of that generation of young Southern men who faced limited career choices despite growing up in a bustling mill town. His dad worked at the textile mill in Cheraw, South Carolina, a town where

Scott McLeod

ow that it’s 2017, I can’t bear the thought of continuing to fixate on politics and its atmosphere of pomposity and negativity that paints a picture of this country far different from what I encounter in my everyday life. It’s part of my job to cover this stuff, but our lives are about so much more than politics.

During the holiday season I was fortunate to spend quite a bit of time with a lot of young adults — my kids and their friends are all ages 18 to 24, and nephews and nieces were around who are as old as 28. And here’s what I heard from them: they aren’t buying into the vision of a country that is crumbling. Instead, I would argue that it’s the fresh optimism of the young — their belief that they can fix problems others have ignored or caused — that helps fuel this country’s ongoing prosperity.

From the time in early adolescence when it dawned on me that the life I lived would be whatever I was able to create by myself for myself, I embraced the challenge. There was a freedom in not coming from a family where heavy expectations were laid on one from an early age.

So with no pressure from my parents, I actually knew at an early age what I wanted — at least the broad strokes: some measure of adventure, someone to love and share the journey with, and work that was meaningful and subsequently enjoyable.

While celebrating the college graduation of a close family friend over the holidays, I was talking to two young men in their mid-20s when one of them actually asked me what people

people spoke simply of “the river” and “the mill” and everyone knew exactly what you meant. Dad was born in 1929, and those mill jobs were a way for his father to escape the vicissitudes of farm life.

But like hundred of thousands of men in similar circumstances, the mill didn’t offer the same promise for my father.

The military was the way out. He joined up, saw the world, found a wife and had a family. For men of his generation in the South, that became an often-used path out of a dead-end future in the same mill where his father worked.

More than anything else, the election year of 2016 brought out the worst in too many politicians and too many Americans as we labored to choose a new leader. Perhaps this is what we’ll have every four years now, a replay of the same rancid discourse of this year’s election but with a few startling deviations that take us even deeper into the swamp that, unfortunately, won’t ever be drained.

But the truth is that in towns and cities across the country, things aren’t like a swamp and it doesn’t need draining.

So I’m ready to move on, to focus on different stories, to write about people compelled to live their dreams despite the obstacles, to search for people who feel the only option is to throw caution aside and make their own adventures.

When it comes to individual lives, politics is mostly irrelevant and trivial. We are all much more interesting than our political ideology. So do me a favor and let’s talk about something else. Please?

(Reach Scott McLeod at info@smokymountainnews.com)

Another side of the Cuban revolution To the Editor: I very much appreciated your comments about Castro and Cuba, particularly your childhood experience at Guantanamo. I too have had some firsthand experience in Cuba, but have come away with a somewhat different take.

I first went there in 1978 with a delegation of religious journalists, sponsored by the Christian Century magazine, not long after the abortive Bay of Pigs invasion. We visited schools, hospitals, small “family doctor centers” where doctors lived and served their constituencies, neighborhood watch committees, museums, private homes, churches and the ecumenical seminary, and had several long dialogues with church leaders and members. We were left free to arrange these visits on our own with no government direction or surveillance.

Everywhere we went we heard widespread support for Fidel Castro, appreciation for and commitment to the “gains of the Revolution,” resentment against the U.S. embargo and invasion, a sense of alienation from the Cubans who had gone to Miami, and disappointment with the missionaries and pastors who had fled (“the pastors deserting their sheep”).

Then, in the late 80s and early 90s, while our son Philip was serving a six-year stint

there as a United Methodist missionary, I went several times. We traveled across the island, had meetings in churches, distributed medical supplies and bicycles, giving lectures in the seminary, and carrying on conversations with a whole range of people. This was during the “special period” after the collapse of the Soviet Union and withdrawal of its subsidies.

At that time there was economic hardship. It was blamed on Russia, government mismanagement, and especially the U.S. embargo. This had engendered experimentation in organic agriculture, a whole range of inventive “make-dos” (dubbed “resolver”), such as preservation of 1950s U.S. autos, and a bus called “the camel” because of its odd shape. The country operated under a dual economy under which those who had access to U.S. dollars were better off than those limited to Cuban pesos and there was an increased desire to migrate to the U.S. Also, there was a remarkable spurt of church growth (the Methodist Church has more than doubled in recent years).

Some takeaways: • An Afro-Cuban Ph.D. in biochemistry in a new 11-story science lab doing research on developing new medications. Her father was a cane-cutter, and her potential would never have been developed without the

LETTERS “gains of the Revolution” in providing free universal education from nursery to grad school.

• A black Russian Orthodox priest who had shed his cassock and taken up a rifle to defend his country against the Bay of Pigs invasion.

• A Methodist bishop who had early been required to do forced labor but later, with 30 other church leaders, was invited to meet with Fidel and gained from him permission to invite a missionary (our son), recruit U.S. mission teams and acquire building materials to repair the churches.

• An elderly laywoman who had taken a pulpit to replace a departed pastor (“The shepherds deserted the sheep,” she said), and asserted that, as a Christian, she supported the “gains of the Revolution” in free health care, education and social services.

• A dedicated Cuban doctor who treated me for shingles that developed while I was there would accept no payment, and told me she was satisfied with her monthly salary of U.S. $500, because her life purpose was to “serve the people,” not to make a lot of money.

• An island-wide network of “family doctor centers,” each serving 250 families, where

doctors lived, held clinic in the mornings, and made house calls in the afternoon.

• An 8-year-old boy who invited us to see the “museum” in his village, which turned out to be a one-room, dirt-floor, thatched roof hovel where his family had lived before the Revolution, then invited us to their modern three-room apartment with electric lights, refrigerator and TV. • A museum depicting — among aspects of the armed struggle led by Fidel and Che to oust the dictator Batista — a display of the 60some attempts by the CIA to assassinate Fidel.

• A seaside nature reserve designed to protect from tourists the giant turtles who come up to lay their eggs — one result of a constitutional amendment requiring environmental protections.

• A layman in our son’s church who had just been released from an eight-month prison term assessed for criticizing the government, where he said he was treated well and saw no signs of torture.

• Church people — some supportive, some critical of Fidel and the government — who shared worship and fellowship together in the same congregations.

Of course, there were the abuses alluded to in your editorial — killings, corruption, confiscation, persecution — such as have been reported by refugees and the U.S. media. But I saw another side to the story, which readers need to know as well.

Doug Wingeier Waynesville

A heavy but hopeful heart for the new year

Susanna Barbee

T

@SmokyMtnNews

Is better vision in your new years plan?

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828.456.3211 www.smokymtneye.com ACCEPTING MAJOR MEDICAL & VISION INSURANCE PLANS DON’T FORGET — YOU MAY PURCHASE CONTACTS WITH YOUR HSA

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Smoky Mountain News

The silver lining is I’m on the other side of it and now have a new collection of holiday memories. I will forever miss my mom and continue to honor her memory, but I’m hopeful that future holiday seasons won’t feel so bleak.

Losing a parent at a relatively young age has change my perspective on life. I’ve realized that happiness really is inside a person and not out in the world. While the world offers much wonder and stimulation, it’s nothing like the reward of inner calm and peace.

Last year taught me that life can throw a number of curveballs, challenges we can never adequately prepare for. In 2016, I surprised myself with both my frailty and my strength. There were times where it felt like quicksand was under my feet and a dark abyss around me. It seemed suffocating to move in any direction but I knew if I stood still, I would sink. A perpetual quandary.

As I write this first column of 2017, I want to thank readers for your support, emails, comments, hugs, and words of encouragement. Since last August, I have been on a long, tiresome journey of grief.

Until you experience it, you don’t realize how mentally and physically overwhelming it is.

It has infiltrated every aspect of my life and impacted my work, my marriage, and my health. Writing about it has been so very healing.

While the sadness continues to weave in and out of my days, other areas of my life have improved. I really held onto my faith during all of this and have recently widened my use of essential oils and resurrected my love of yoga. I’m trying to get adequate sleep, be mindful of meaningful moments, and eat healthy. I’ve learned it truly takes a combination of strategies and remedies to comfort a broken heart.

As I look into the face of 2017, I feel bold yet cautious. Empowered yet pensive.

Childlike yet ancient. With all of these dichotomies swirling inside of me, I know a few things for sure. Life never gets dull, and I’m getting better every day at seeing the good all around me and realizing the absolute best things in life are intangible.

For the New Year, I don’t have any resolutions. I don’t even have a word of the year.

I’m just going to follow the advice of my sister’s father-in-law, a wonderful man who passed away the month before my mom.

“Keep life simple and family close.”

Really, what else is there?

Here’s to 2017, friends. May it bring us many sweet memories.

(Susanna Barbee lives in Haywood County. susanna.barbee@gmail.com.)

January 4-10, 2017

hroughout my entire life, I’ve awoken on New Year’s Day energized to be more, do more, see more. This year was very different. I woke up wanting to do less, to simplify everything. I woke up feeling steadfast, reflective.

My mom’s been by my side for 36 holiday seasons, so the first one without her felt strange and melancholy.

Thinking back on the last couple of months, there are Columnist some bright spots like snuggling on the couch watching movies under the glow of the Christmas tree, making gingerbread houses with the whole family, and visiting my sister and niece in D.C. for a mommy and kid weekend.

The Days and Eves were really rough, though.

I missed my mom on Thanksgiving when she wasn’t there to break up cornbread and biscuits and add just the right amount of turkey juice and thyme to make my greatgrandmothers dressing recipe.

I missed her in the months leading up to Christmas when she and I couldn’t chitter chatter on the phone every day about which presents for the boys would be from whom.

And on Christmas Eve when I couldn’t call her from my mother-in-law’s house or send her a picture of the boys in their Christmas pajamas. I especially missed her on Christmas Day when she didn’t excitedly walk in the back door around 10 o’clock to eat brunch and see all that Santa had brought.

My dad spent the night with us on Christmas Eve so it was fun to do something unique and different, but the void was everpresent in the room.

When my sister and I went to college then moved out on our own, my family started a tradition of calling at midnight to say Happy New Year to one another. I can still hear the joy in my mom’s voice when I would call. One year I was in Canada on a snowboarding trip. It was pouring the snow, but I went and found a pay phone and used a calling card just so I wouldn’t disappoint Mom and Dad. It was totally worth it.

This year, my dad, sister and I talked on three-way through tears as we reminisced about New Year’s Eves of the past. And on New Year’s Day, I ate pork loin, black-eyed peas, and collard greens at Laurel Ridge.

While it was very delicious, it wasn’t the same as eating the meal in my parents’ dining room.

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tasteTHEmountains

Real New Yorkers.

Real Italians. Real Pizza.

Dine-In ~ Take Out ~ Delivery

An Authentic Italian Pizzeria & Restaurant from New York to the Blue Ridge.

Just to serve you!

Featuring: Calzones · Stromboli Subs · Pasta and More NOW OPEN

Mon.-Sat. 11 am to 9 pm · Closed Sundays

243 Paragon Parkway | Clyde

January 4-10, 2017

828-476-5058

128 N. Main St., Waynesville

Smoky Mountain News

Hot Appetizers Cold Beer | Warm Sake

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Taste the Mountains is an ever-evolving paid section of places to dine in Western North Carolina. If you would like to be included in the listing please contact our advertising department at 828.452.4251 AMMONS DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT & DAIRY BAR 1451 Dellwwod Rd., Waynesville.

828.926.0734. Open 7 days a week 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Celebrating over 25 years.

Enjoy world famous hot dogs as well as burgers, seafood, hushpuppies, hot wings and chicken. Be sure to save room for dessert.

The cobbler, pie and cake selections are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

APPLE ANDY'S RESTAURANT 3483 Soco Road, Maggie Valley located in Market Square. 828.944.0626. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Wednesday and Thursday.

Serving the freshest homemade sandwiches, wraps, and entrees such as country fried steak and grilled flounder. Full salad bar and made from scratch sides like potato salad, pinto beans and macaroni and cheese. www.appleandys.com

Brown bagging is permitted. Private parties, catering, and take-out available. Call-ahead seating available.

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE 454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch served 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Monday through Saturday. Dinner 5 to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Closed on Sunday. We specialize in hand-cut, all natural steaks from local farms, incredible burgers, and other classic american comfort foods that are made using only the finest local and sustainable ingredients available.

BREAKING BREAD CAFÉ 6147 Hwy 276 S. Bethel (at the Mobil Gas Station) 828.648.3838 Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chef owned and operated. Our salads are made in house using local seasonal vegetables. Fresh roasted ham, turkey and roast beef used in our hoagies. We hand make our own eggplant and chicken parmesan, pork meatballs and hamburgers. We use 1st quality fresh not pre-prepared products to make sure you get the best food for a reasonable price. We make vegetarian, gluten free and sugar free items. Call or go to Facebook (Breaking Bread Café NC) to find out what our specials are.

BLOSSOM ON MAIN 128 N. Main Street, Waynesville.

828.454.5400. Open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Mild, medium, to hot and spicy, our food is cooked to your like-able temperature.

Forget the myth that all Thai food is spicy.

Traditional Thai food is known to be quite healthy, making use of natural and fresh ingredients, paired with lots of spices, herbs, and vegetables. Vegetarians and health conscious individuals will not be disappointed as fresh vegetables and tofu are available in most of our menu as well as wines and saki chosen to compliment the unique flavors of Thai cuisine.

BRYSON CITY CORK & BEAN A MOUNTAIN SOCIAL HOUSE 16 Everett St.,Bryson City. 828.488.1934.

Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday brunch 9 a.m. to 3p.m., Full Menu 3 to 9 p.m. Serving fresh and delicious weekday morning lite fare, lunch, dinner, and brunch. Freshly prepared menu offerings range from house-made soups & salads, lite fare & tapas, crepes, specialty sandwiches and burgers. Be sure not to miss the bold flavors and creative combinations that make up the daily Chef Supper Specials starting at 5pm every day.

Followed by a tempting selection of desserts prepared daily by our chefs and other local bakers. Enjoy craft beers on tap, as well as our full bar and eclectic wine list.

BLUE ROOSTER SOUTHERN GRILL 207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde, Lakeside Plaza at the old Wal-Mart. 828.456.1997. Open Monday through Friday. Friendly and fun family atmosphere. Local, handmade Southern cuisine. Fresh-cut salads; slow-simmered soups; flame grilled burgers and steaks, and homemade signature desserts.

Blue-plates and local fresh vegetables daily.

CATALOOCHEE RANCH 119 Ranch Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1401. Family-style breakfast seven days a week, from 8 am to 9:30 am – with eggs, bacon, sausage, grits and oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-you-can-eat. Lunch every day from 12:00 till 2 pm. Evening cookouts on the terrace on weekends and

APPÉTIT Y’AL N L BO

CHEF’S TABLE 30 Church St., Waynesville. 828.452.6210.

From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday dinner starting at 5 p.m. “Best of” Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine. Set in a distinguished atmosphere with an exceptional menu. Extensive selection of wine and beer. Reservations honored.

CHURCH STREET DEPOT 34 Church Street, downtown Waynesville.

828.246.6505. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Mouthwatering all beef burgers and dogs, hand-dipped, hand-spun real ice cream shakes and floats, fresh handcut fries. Locally sourced beef. Indoor and outdoor dining. facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot, twitter.com/ChurchStDepot.

CITY LIGHTS CAFE Spring Street in downtown Sylva.

828.587.2233. Open Monday-Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tasty, healthy and quick. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, espresso, beer and wine. Come taste the savory and sweet crepes, grilled paninis, fresh, organic salads, soups and more.

Outside patio seating. Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly. Live music and lots of events. Check the web calendar at citylightscafe.com.

THE CLASSIC WINESELLER 20 Church Street, Waynesville.

828.452.6000. Underground retail wine and craft beer shop, restaurant, and intimate live music venue. Kitchen opens at 4 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday serving freshly prepared small plates, tapas, charcuterie, desserts. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday night at 7pm. www.classicwineseller.com. Also on facebook and twitter.

COUNTRY VITTLES: FAMILY STYLE RESTAURANT 3589 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley.

828.926.1820 Winter hours: Wednesday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family

Retail Retail

Restaurant Restaurant

LIVE LIVE Music Music

FRIDAY, FRIDA AY, JANUAR JANUARY RY 6 @ 7 7:15PM 7:1 1 Jay Brown: piano, guitar guitar,, harmonica, vocals

Come Try Thai Today

WINE • BEER • SAKE

Blues, Blues, F Folk-Americana, olk-Americana, O Originals riginals

SATURDAY, S ATURDAY, J JANUARY ANUARY 7 @ 7 7:15PM :15PM Joe Cruz: piano, vocals

Open Daily 11:30-9:00

207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde

(828) 454-5400

blueroostersoutherngrill.com

BlossomOnMain.com

Wednesdays, featuring steaks, ribs, chicken, and pork chops, to name a few. Bountiful family-style dinners on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, with entrees that include prime rib, baked ham and herb-baked chicken, complemented by seasonal vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer a fine selection of wine and beer.

The evening social hour starts at 6 pm, and dinner is served starting at 7 pm. So join us for mile-high mountaintop dining with a spectacular view. Please call for reservations.

828-456-1997 Monday-Friday Open at 11am

Beatles, Beatles, El Elton ton Jo John, hn, Ja James mes T Taylor aylor + Mo More re

Real Local Families, Real Local Farms, Real Local Food

Reserve Reserve at at 828-452-6000 828-452-6000 Paid in part by Haywood County Tourism www www.visitncsmokies.com .visitncsmokies.com T ourism o 828-452-6000 828-452-6000 classicwineseller.com classicwineseller.com 20 NC 20 Church Church Street, Street, Waynesville, Waynesville, NC

tasteTHEmountains Style at Country Vittles is not a buffet.

Instead our waitresses will bring your food piping hot from the kitchen right to your table and as many refills as you want. So if you have a big appetite, but sure to ask your waitress about our family style service.

FERRARA PIZZA & PASTA 243 Paragon Parkway, Clyde.

828.476.5058. Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Real New Yorkers. Real Italians. Real Pizza. A full service authentic Italian pizzeria and restaurant from New York to the Blue Ridge. Dine in, take out, and delivery. Check out our daily lunch specials plus customer appreciation nights on Monday and Tuesday 5 to 9 p.m. with large cheese pizzas for $9.95.

FILLING STATION DELI 145 Everett St., Bryson City, 828.488.1919.

Open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sundays (in October) 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Locals always know best, and this is one place they know well. From the highquality hot pressed sandwiches and the huge portions of hand-cut fries to the specialty frozen sandwiches and homemade Southern desserts, you will not leave this top-rated deli hungry.

J. ARTHUR’S RESTAURANT AT MAGGIE VALLEY U.S. 19 in Maggie Valley. 828.926.1817.

Open nightly for dinner at 4 p.m.; Friday through Sunday 12 to 4 p.m. for lunch. Daily luncheon special at $6.99. World-famous prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood, gorgonzola cheese and salads. All ABC permits and open year-round. Children always welcome.

Take-out menu. Excellent service and hospitality. Reservations appreciated.

JUKEBOX JUNCTION U.S. 276 and N.C. 110 intersection, Bethel.

828.648.4193. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday

MAD BATTER FOOD & FILM 617 W. Main Street Downtown Sylva.

828.586.3555. Open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Handtossed pizza, steak sandwiches, wraps, salads and desserts. All made from scratch.

Beer and wine. Free movies with showtimes at 6:30 and 9 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. Visit madbatterfoodandfilm.com for this week’s shows.

MAGGIE VALLEY CLUB 1819 Country Club Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1616. maggievalleyclub.com/dine.

Open seasonally for lunch and dinner. Fine and casual fireside dining in welcoming atmosphere. Full bar. Reservations accepted.

SAGEBRUSH STEAKHOUSE 1941 Champion Drive, Canton 828.646.3750 895 Russ Ave., Waynesville 828.452.5822. Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Carry out available.

Sagebrush features hand carved steaks, chicken and award winning BBQ ribs. We have fresh salads, seasonal vegetables and scrumptious deserts. Extensive selection of local craft beers and a full bar. Catering special events is one of our specialties.

SPEEDY’S PIZZA 285 Main Street, Sylva. 828.586.3800.

Open seven days a week. Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 3 p.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Family-owned for 30 years. Serving hand-tossed pizza made to order, pasta, subs, gourmet salads, calzones and seafood. Also serving excellent prime rib on Thursdays. Dine in or take out available. Located across from the Fire Station.

PASQUALE’S 1863 South Main Street, Waynesville. Off exit 98, 828.454.5002. Open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Sunday. Classic Italian dishes, exceptional steaks and seafood (available in full and lighter sizes), thin crust pizza, homemade soups, salads hand tossed at your table. Fine wine and beer selection. Casual atmosphere, dine indoors, outside on the patio or at the bar.

TAP ROOM BAR & GRILL 176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville.

828.456.3551. Open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tucked away inside Waynesville Inn, the Tap Room Bar & Grill has an approachable menu designed around locally sourced, sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients. Full bar and wine cellar. www.thewaynesvilleinn.com.

PATIO BISTRO 30 Church Street, Waynesville.

828.454.0070. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Breakfast bagels and sandwiches, gourmet coffee, deli sandwiches for lunch with homemade soups, quiches, and desserts. Wide selection of wine and beer.

Outdoor and indoor dining.

TRAILHEAD CAFE & BAKERY 18 N Main Street, Waynesville.

828.452.3881 Open 7 days a week MondaySaturday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will find a delicious selection of pastries & donuts, breakfast & lunch along with a fresh coffee & barista selection. Happy Trails!

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR Maggie Valley Inn and Conference Center 70 Soco Road, Maggie Valley 828.926.0201 Home of the Maggie Valley Pizzeria. We deliver after 4 p.m. daily to all of Maggie Valley, J-Creek area, and Lake Junaluska.

Monday through Wednesday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. country buffet and salad bar from 5 to 9 p.m. $11.95 with Steve Whiddon on piano.

Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 11:30 to 8 p.m. 11:30 to 3 p.m. family style, fried chicken, ham, fried fish, salad bar, along with all the fixings, $11.95.

Check out our events and menu at rendezvousmaggievalley.com

WAYNESVILLE PIZZA COMPANY 32 Felmet Street, Waynesville.

828.246.0927. Open Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 10 p.m.; Sunday noon to 9 p.m.; closed Tuesdays. Opened in May 2016, The Waynesville Pizza Company has earned a reputation for having the best hand-tossed pizza in the area. Featuring a custom bar with more than 20 beers and a rustic, family friendly dining room. Menu includes salads, burgers, wraps, hot and cold sandwiches, gourmet pizza, homemade desserts, and a loaded salad bar. The Cuban sandwich is considered by most to be the best in town.

Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday 12 p.m.-10 p.m.

Closed Tues.

Sun. 12-9 p.m.

Sandwiches • Burgers • Wraps 32 Felmet Street (828) 246-0927

WAYNESVILLE’S BEST BURGERS

MON.-SAT. 11 A.M.-8 P.M.

34 CHURCH ST. WAYNESVILLE 828.246.6505 Mtwitter.com/ChurchStDepot C facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot

Visit Us and Discover MEDITERRANEAN & ITALIAN CUISINE 1863 S. Main Street • Waynesville 828.454.5002 Hwy. 19/23 Exit 98 LUNCH & DINNER TUES. - SUN.

www.pasqualesnc.com

serving size : ab out 50 p ag es Am ount per Serving

Open for Breakfast

Calories 0 % Daily Value * Tot al Fat 0g

0%

Reg ional New s

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Op inion

100%

Outd oors

100%

Art s

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* Percent Weekly values b ased on Hayw ood, Jackson, M acon, Sw ain and Buncom b e d iet s.

Smoky Mountain News

We’ll feed your spirit, too.

Nutrition Facts

January 4-10, 2017

JOEY'S PANCAKE HOUSE 4309 Soco Rd Maggie Valley.

828.926.0212. Winter hours: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., closed Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Joey’s is a family style restaurant that has been serving breakfast to the locals and visitors of Western North Carolina since 1966. Featuring a large variety of tempting pancakes, golden waffles, country style cured ham and seasonal specials spiked with flavor, Joey's is sure to please all appetites. Join us for what has become a tradition in these parts, breakfast at Joey’s.

through Saturday; Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch, nd dinner. The restaurant has a 1950s & 60s theme decorated with memorabilia from that era.

MON.-SAT. 8 A.M. Cataloochee Ranch 119 Ranch Drive, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 | CataloocheeRanch.com | (828)926-1401

3 E JACKSON ST. • SYLVA, NC

www.CityLightsCafe.com

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A&E

Smoky Mountain News

One more for the good times The Dirty Soul Revival to rock Sylva

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER It ain’t dead.

Rock-n-roll. In an era when sugar-coated pop stars and polished country acts are atop the charts, one wonders if there is any shred of real rock swagger and attitude anymore. Where is that sound and tone that pushes sonic barriers and actually challenges you to think outside the box with lyrical content that isn’t about riverbanks and moonshine, but rather focuses on the raw elements of the human condition?

Sure, if you look below the surface of the mainstream, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for — the real deal. And when one digs deeper to see what’s out there in Asheville and greater Western North Carolina, The Dirty Soul Revival rises to the surface.

“I think that Asheville’s attitude is very cutting edge and avant-garde and is one of the only places I’ve been where music is celebrated for being unique and weird with“Music is to me the out question,” said lead single greatest singer/guitarist Abraham Anderson. thing man has Alongside Anderson, Brandon Hill (guitar), ever done. To be a Jason Taylor (bass) and part of that in any Jerard Sloan (drums) make up the quintet. way is a great They’ve been rolling their way through every sticky thing to us.” floor barroom and back — Abraham Anderson, alley dive in Southern lead singer/guitarist Appalachia with their hard edge brand of rock.

Think of a darker, dirtier version of The Black Keys, or perhaps, if The Allman Brothers leaned more towards Steppenwolf, all with a steadfast motto of “no compromise.”

“It’s a bit trite to say, but honestly I just want to play the songs that I write with the amazing group of guys that I play with to be heard,” Anderson said. “At the same time, I would like to be able to do what I do without compromise and have people like it and have it just left alone by the industry. I think the first thing ‘the industry’ does is take the things that make a musician or songwriter or band great and start chiseling away at it to make it fit within the mold of what people are used to hearing, or what format best sells ad space.”

And with the melodies spinning around his head, Anderson looks to put to paper the quirks and daily instances that may bother others, but he looks at as creative energy.

“Anger, and things that annoy me in the world would be probably the largest well I draw from lyrically,” he said. “As far as music, I just try to come up with stuff that I would like to listen to that hasn’t been played yet, which is difficult at times because it has all been played before, and written, and sung.

The only thing that makes any music original anymore is that fact that it comes from inside you, because people always play things differently, even when they are not trying to — and that’s what makes it new.”

Pointing to the key rock influences of the golden era of AM radio, Anderson and his group aim to pay homage to those

The Dirty Soul Revival.

Donated photo

Want to go?

Rock act The Dirty Soul Revival will perform at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at No Name Sports Pub in Sylva. The show is free and open to the public. www.thedirtysoulrevival.com or www.nonamesportspub.com. heroes, and also preserve their legacy through live performance and studio recordings.

“Musical heroes used to range anywhere from Elvis to Sinatra to Hendrix. Now they are Beiber, Beyonce and Swift.

Not saying there is anything wrong with it, it just doesn’t really inspire me personally,” Anderson said. “Music is a byproduct of human existence and I think it generally reflects the culture and mood of times it is written and I think that is only going downhill. I think there was an honest belief that people could change the system and make the world better then, now I think we are to preoccupied with technology to even live in this moment, to even be a real part of one another’s lives.”

Onstage, The Dirty Soul Revival shoves the listener to the back wall, where you start gyrating in ways you figured didn’t

occur anymore. Hand gestures with your index and pinky fingers in the air. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Saturday night broken beer bottle tribute band playing worn-out rock classics. This is rock-n-roll, in its purest form.

“Music is to me the single greatest thing man has ever done.

To be a part of that in any way is a great thing to us,” Anderson said. “You can be the most skilled musician, or the most talented singer, but without putting yourself out for the world to see, it really doesn’t amount to much. What I respond to in music — and I think most people do — is not skill or talent. It’s when you genuinely feel that they are letting you in on something personal.

Letting you be a part of an experience that they had. Whether it is sad, or triumphant or shameful. It’s when somebody really bares their soul to the world that really powerful music is made.”

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

Sydney to Seattle to the South

SAVE THE DATE

January 4-10, 2017 Smoky Mountain News

HOT PICKS 1 2 3 4 5

Through the strewn lights I Americana/bluegrass act Ol’ Dirty Bathtub will could see the Empire State perform at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at No Building.

Name Sports Pub in Sylva.

Standing on the roof of Northern Territory, an Australian Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Silly bar in the Greenpoint neighborRidge Roundup (bluegrass) at 8 p.m. hood of Brooklyn, I found myself Saturday, Jan. 7. fixated on the iconic structure Jackson County saxophonist Tyler Kittle will glowing in the distance. I was shakperform with Folk Songs (world music) at 7 en out of my trance by my group of p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at Sazon in Cullowhee. friends wanting to salute to the New Year, drinks hoisted high into The Canton Armory will host “Winter Pickin’ in the oddly mild air of the early the Armory” at 7 p.m. every first and third morning of Jan. 1 in the Big Apple.

Friday of the month (starting Jan. 6).

Since I graduated from college in 2007, I’ve been visiting here Western Carolina University (Cullowhee) will routinely because my two best host a Low Brass Festival Guest Artist friends from school lived in and Rehearse at 7 p.m. Jan. 12 and 7:30 p.m. around “The City.” And for six of Jan. 13 in the Coulter Building. the last eight New Year’s Eve celebrations, I’ve made it a tradition our way through this thing called life. That to have all three of us together for when the road trip up and down the East Coast during ball drops. This time around, it seemed a litspring break of our senior year. Running tle more bittersweet, seeing as this would be around hotels and ballrooms at mutual our last one together for a while — in New friends’ weddings. Holiday and vacation York City at least. meet-ups, freezing cold skiing jaunts and One of my friends got married two years “spur of the moment passing through” stops ago and moved to Seattle from Queens. The for a night or two. other got married last year and is planning The funny thing is, we (and all of you out to move from Brooklyn to Sydney with his Australian wife. Three dots of humanity now there, too) knew all along that this time would come, when we all went our separate truly scattered across the world. But, the ways, perhaps with a significant other, headfriendship remains, as it always would.

All those years together, this trio of chaos ing out toward the horizon, a momentary peek over your shoulder, a slight grin emergand confusion, trying our best to navigate

Who knows where we will all be come New Year’s Eve 2017? Vague plans have already been made to find our way to Sydney, a journey as vast as it is justification as to what it takes to keep people you deeply care about in your life. Dec. 31, 2017 also represents a destination by which nothing will ever be the same leading up to that date and time, when the ball drops in Times Square and humanity clears the slate in hopes of a better tomorrow.

We all met for breakfast in Greenpoint on Monday morning, our last day together before their plane leaves for Seattle that afternoon and tickets for Sydney are to be purchased in the coming days. Laughter and reminiscing as per usual, but it felt a tad more sentimental for myself.

I’ve walked these streets and eaten in these restaurants with these people for many years now, side-by-side through the trials and tribulations of one’s existence. My footsteps became more casual, a little bit slower, as I strolled along the sidewalks, occasionally looking up in awe of the tall and magnificent buildings, the swirling trees lining the blocks.

There’s a beauty to getting older. Some might say nay. But, for those in search of themselves in this wild and wonderful world, that sense of self is only discovered over the ridge of birthdays thought far away many years ago, nowadays staring you right in the face. There’s a beauty to getting older, and thankfully there are those friends who knew you when, who know you now, and who are as excited for the ride as you are.

Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all.

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

ing when you see those familiar and beloved faces pushing ahead in their own direction.

With 2016 coming to a close, the New Year will means a lot of new things for all of us. It sometimes feels like each impending year carries more emotional weight than the previous one. It can be chalked up to our world accelerating faster and faster into technology, innovation and communication. But, for me, I look at it as each year we’re honing in who we really are at our core, with the picture becoming clearer as time rolls on.

And I thought about that emotional weight gazing at the Empire State Building through the lights strewn about on that rooftop. Some of that weight is my own mind getting on top of itself, while most of it is just an individual exhausting himself in search of the essence of not only what lies beneath my soul, but also what lies beneath the souls of those incredible people surrounding me.

There are so many people I miss when New Year’s Eve rolls around. Those milestones in your life and the faces in your presence when you know you’ll never forget how surreal that moment — whatever moment it may be — is, can and ultimately will be. And for these past several years, I’ve found myself in New York City, reveling in the unknown magic found only in this place that is seemingly the center of the universe.

I see those familiar and beloved faces standing in front of me on that rooftop, drinks hoisted high, and I remember — how we first met, how they first met their wives, how we bounce around this great big world each year, only to wind up back to where it all began.

21

arts & entertainment

On the beat • The Canton Armory will host “Winter Pickin’ in the Armory” at 7 p.m. every first and third Friday of the month (starting Jan. 6). The event includes mountain music, vintage country, clogging and dancing. Doors open at 6 p.m. Free. www.cantonnc.com.

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Jay Brown (pop/guitar) Jan. 6, Jay Cruz (piano/pop) Jan. 7 and 14, and Tiny & Her Pony (Americana) Jan. 13. All events begin at 7 p.m. 828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

ALSO:

• Currahee Brewing (Franklin) will host Twelfth Fret (Americana) at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 7. www.curraheebrewing.com.

• Derailed Bar & Lounge (Bryson City) will have music at 7 p.m. on Saturdays.

828.488.8898.

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will have an Open Mic night Jan. 4 and 11, and a jazz night with the Kittle/Collings Duo Jan. 5 and 12. All events are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.innovation-brewing.com.

Smoky Mountain News

January 4-10, 2017

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Silly Ridge Roundup (bluegrass) Jan. 7 and

Karaoke Throwdown with T&J Entertainment Jan. 14. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. 828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host a community music jam from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 5. Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer or anything unplugged is invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen. Free. 828.488.3030.

• No Name Sports Pub (Sylva) will host Ol’ Dirty Bathtub (Americana/bluegrass) Jan. 6, Sultry Sirens Varietease Show Spectacular & Dance Party Jan. 7, The Dirty Soul Revival (rock/blues) Jan. 13 and Russ T. Nutz (honky-tonk) Jan. 14. All shows are free and begin at 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.nonamesportspub.com.

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host “Hoppy Hour” and an open mic with Jimandi at 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays, “Funky Friday” with Bud Davis at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Isaish Breedlove (Americana) at 7 p.m. on Saturdays. 828.482.9794 or www.satulahmountainbrewing.com.

• Sazon (Cullowhee) will host Folk Songs (world music) at 7 p.m. Jan. 6.

828.293.9443 or www.sazoncullowhee.com.

Americana/bluegrass act Ol’ Dirty Bathtub will perform at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at No Name Sports Pub in Sylva. Free and open to the public. www.facebook.com/oldirtybathtub.

Tyler Kittle.

74 North Main Street, Waynesville

I would like to share my excitement with you about my new professional home. I've moved to Beverly-Hanks & Associates, but you, and the people you refer to me, will still be provided the same warm and professional service as always. Please update your address book with my new contact information. And if someone you know is thinking of buying or selling, please let me know. I will provide them with the best service imaginable.

e n i r e h t Ca Proben

Cell: 828-734-9157 Office: 828-452-5809

cproben@beverly-hanks.com 22

GET IN THE TUB

Canton library jazz concert

The Friends of the Library Concert Series continues with Tyler Kittle & Folks'Songs, who will perform at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, at the Canton Public Library.

Folks'Songs is a new project dedicated to celebrating the folk music of different cultures and eras. Expect the unexpected as Folks'Songs has a wide variety of repertoire, unbound by genres.

Folks'Songs was created as a way to explore the most beautiful melodies in the world. The mastery and creativity of the band members enable them to do so effortlessly.

The show is free and open to the public. For upcoming Friends of the Library artists and additional information, visit www.haywoodarts.org and click on “Events.”

World music in Cullowhee

Acclaimed Jackson County saxophonist Tyler Kittle will perform with Folk’sSongs (world music) at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at Sazon in Cullowhee.

828.293.9443 or www.sazoncullowhee.com.

On the beat

Haywood Community College Continuing Education Creative Arts is pleased to announce an expanded selection of music classes spearheaded by local musicians Julie and Bryan McConnell.

The McConnells will be teaching vocal, percussion, and two levels of string classes with an emphasis on practical theories and physical techniques — many of which they have developed themselves.

With 74 years of combined experience as musicians, and over 55 years as music educators; both work as performers, recording artists, conductors, educators, facilitators and coordinators. Julie will be teaching

the vocal and percussion classes, while Bryan will teach first and second level string classes open to most stringed instruments.

HCC Continuing Education Creative Arts offers continuing education classes and workshops in clay, fiber, metals, wood, and music, as well as design and

computer classes. These classes are yearround and open to the public.

For more information on these classes or to register, call 828.565.4240.

• Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro (Sylva) will host The Infinite Guest Jazz Series at 7 p.m. Jan. 3. 828.586.1717 or www.soulinfusion.com.

• The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host a weekly Appalachian music night from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays with Nitrograss.

828.526.8364 or www.theuglydogpub.com.

• The Strand at 38 Main (Waynesville) will host an “Open Micâ€? night from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays. All are welcome. 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com.

• Western Carolina University (Cullowhee) will host a Low Brass Festival Guest Artist Rehearse at 7 p.m. Jan. 12 and 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 13 in the Coulter Building. There will also be a Coffeehouse Concert at 7 p.m. Jan. 12 in the UC Illusions. www.wcu.edu.

ALSO:

SILLY RIDGE AT LAZY HIKER Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Silly Ridge Roundup (bluegrass) at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7. Free. 828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

W O M A N

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Health, Hope ope a and nd H Happiness appiness H ealth, H thru Midlife and Beyond thru M idlife a nd B eyond Join us for a free education seminar and dinner as Kathy Walsh, NP covers topics ranging from heart disease, diabetes and menopause management to stress balance and weight loss.

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Smoky Mountain News

January 4-10, 2017

JAN. 21¡ 9

arts & entertainment

HCC music classes expand

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On the street arts & entertainment

Do you want to roller derby?

The ‘Genesis of the Cherokee’

January 4-10, 2017

The Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society will host “The Genesis of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center in Bryson City.

The presenter will be Anita FingerSmith, President and CEO of Cherokee Genealogy Services. The presentation will cover five circumstances during the early 19th century contributing to the nucleus of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Most people still believe the only reason the

Cherokee are in North Carolina today is because they hid out in the mountains.

Although this was true for a few, the majority are there for other reasons.

Finger-Smith is the contract genealogist to the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs, appointed by the North Carolina Department of Administration.

When she is not attending to genealogical research, she serves as co-owner of Bearmeat’s Indian Den on the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Cherokee Genealogy Services is a business licensed by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Conversation and refreshments will follow the presentation. This is open to the public and there is no admission charge.

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Smoky Mountain News

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7 Locations Serving you in Western North Carolina

The Smoky Mountain Roller Girls are currently looking for females age 18 or older to skate, and anyone 18 or older to referee and assist with non-skating roles.

Everyone who is interested is encouraged to come out for practice on Sunday and Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. beginning Jan. 8 at the Swain County Recreation Center located on West Deep Creek Road in Bryson City.

Roller derby is a fun way to get into shape. Practices focus on conditioning, endurance, and skill building. The team participates in a number of activities off the track including the Annual Haywood Waterways Polar Plunge, Bryson City’s Chili Cook Off, and Greening up the Mountains.

Smoky Mountain Roller Girls are also dedicated to giving back to the community. The team engages in regular community service

and raises money for organizations such as Qualla Safe House, The Community Table of Jackson County, Hawthorne Heights, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and many other organizations in Western North Carolina.

“Giving back to the community is part of our mission and we’re pleased to donate our proceeds to organizations that serve Swain, Jackson, Macon and Haywood counties,” said Kortney Kincaid, team co-captain.

No experience is necessary for women who are interested in skating and joining the team. A “Fresh Meat” training program will teach potential skaters everything they need to know about roller derby. The team even offers a “loaner closet” with safety pads, helmets and roller skates to try out. www.facebook.com/ smokymountainrollergirls.

• A wine tasting will be held from 2 to 5 p.m.

Jan. 7 and 14 at Papou’s Wine Shop in Sylva. $5 per person. www.papouswineshop.com or 828.586.6300.

craft beer tasting on Thursdays. Both events run from 4 to 8 p.m. There will also be tapas from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. www.classicwineseller.com.

• A free wine tasting will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Jan. 7 and 14 at Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville. www.waynesvillewine.com or 828.452.0120.

219 Haywood St. ■ Asheville ■ 828.252.8234 1453 Sand Hill Rd. ■ Candler ■ 828.667.7245 3533 US 441 North ■ Whittier ■ 828.497.6211 3270 Hendersonville Rd. ■ Fletcher ■ 828.684.9999 746 East Main St. ■ Franklin ■ 828.524.4464 30 Highway 107 ■ Sylva ■ 828.586.0425 721 N. Main St. ■ Waynesville ■ 828.452.2216

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host a wine tasting on Wednesdays and a

We want to be your financial partner for life. *APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Normal application & approval process applies.

This is not a commitment to lend.

24

The Smoky Mountain Roller Girls. Donated photo

Learn more when you visit our website: mountaincu.org

289-80

• Free cooking demonstrations will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturdays at Country Traditions in Dillsboro.

Eat samples and taste house wines for $3 a glass. All recipes posted online. www.countrytraditionsnc.com.

ALSO:

@SmokyMtnNews

On the street

On the wall WCU Kephart display

Margaret Hester photo

A showcase on the life and times of Horace Kephart will be on display through March 31 in the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University.

In 1904, Kephart was a 42-year-old librarian coming to Western North Carolina for a fresh start in the Southern Appalachian wilderness. Over the next 27 years, his numerous articles and books captured a disappearing culture, provided practical advice for generations of outdoor enthusiasts, and spearheaded the movement to establish the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

828.227.7129 or www.wcu.edu.

• The “Women Painters of the Southeast” exhibition will run Jan. 9 through May 5 in the Fine Arts Museum at Western Carolina

History of Jackson County newspapers

University. A reception will be held at the museum from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 19. www.wcu.edu.

• The Adult Coloring Group will meet at 2 p.m. on Fridays in the Living Room of the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

An afternoon of creativity and camaraderie. Supplies are provided, or bring your own. Beginners are welcome as well as those who already enjoy this new trend. kmoe@fontanalib.org or 828.524.3600.

arts & entertainment

Historic Jackson County Courthouse.

ALSO:

• “Stitch,” the community gathering of those interested in crochet, knitting and needlepoint, meet at 2:30 p.m. every first Sunday of the month at the Canton Public Library. All ages and skill levels welcome. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

On the stage

Librarian George Frizzell will present an overview of newspapers in Jackson County from the late 19th century to the present at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, in the Community Room at the historic Jackson County Courthouse in Sylva.

Titled “Our History, Heritage, and Headlines,” the Jackson County Genealogical Society program will cover the various highlights and the diverse themes chronicled in newspapers such as the Webster Herald, Jackson County Journal, Ruralite, Cashiers Chronicle, and Sylva Herald.

All JCGS events are free of charge and the public is welcome. For more information, visit them on Facebook or call 828.631.2646.

January 4-10, 2017 Ian McKellen, Patrick Stewart and Owen Teale in ‘No Man’s Land.’ Johan Persson photo

Vendors display their wares at Greening Up the Mountains. Donated photo

Greening Up open call The Greening Up the Mountains Festival in Sylva is now inviting artists, mountain crafters, environmental and food vendors to apply for a booth in its 20th year as the premiere spring festival for Western North Carolina.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 22, the festival sponsored by the Town of Sylva will once again take place in downtown Sylva. Demonstrating visual artists and traditional crafters will be joined by a mountain community who honors

their artisans and natural environment.

Daylong events will be held on Main Street and in the Bridge Park, beginning with a 5K race sponsored by the Jackson County Recreation/Parks Department. Children’s activities, demonstrations, a youth talent contest and live performances by a wide variety of Jackson County musicians will be featured throughout the day.

Applications can be downloaded from the website, www.greeningupthemountains.com and will be accepted through April 1. For more information, call 828.631.4587.

The Highlands Performing Arts Center will continue the “Live via Satellite” series.

• The MET Opera’s production of “Nabucco” by Verdi at 12:55 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 7.

The legendary Plácido Domingo brings another new baritone role to the Met under the baton of his longtime collaborator James Levine. Liudmyla Monastyrska is Abigaille, the warrior woman determined to rule empires, and Jamie Barton is the heroic Fenena. Dmitri Belosselskiy is the stentorian voice of the oppressed Hebrew people.

• The National Theatre of London will present legendary actors Patrick Stewart

and Ian McKellen in Harold Pinter’s “No Man’s Land” at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14.

Following their hit run on Broadway, McKellen and Stewart return to the West End stage. One summer’s evening, two aging writers, Hirst and Spooner, meet in a Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst’s stately house nearby. As the pair become increasingly inebriated, and their stories increasingly unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of two sinister younger men. The broadcast will be followed by an exclusive Q&A with the cast and director Sean Mathias.

Tickets are available at www.highlandspac.org, at the door or by calling 828.526.9047.

Smoky Mountain News

‘Live via Satellite’ opera, theater

25

Lopi Cape Cod arts & entertainment

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Smoky Mountain News

January 4-10, 2017

Log on. Plan a trip.

And start kicking back.

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Happy New Year from Champion Credit Union Coming soon to 1000 Patton Avenue in Asheville!

Mortgages, business loans, and more…all with the community in mind.

26

Books

Smoky Mountain News

27

Book about artist is itself a work of art n mid-October I attended the second lecture of three at my local library on the Italian artist Caravaggio (1571-1610). A visit to Rome the previous year had sparked my interest in him and his work, and the lecture sent me to the library “Holds” desk where, as the speaker had informed us, he had placed on reserve several books on the painter. Despite having missed the first lecture, and despite the crowd of 70 some Writer attendees at the lecture, I found to my astonishment that no one had checked out any of the books.

The other attendees didn’t know what they were missing, for among these volumes I found one beauty that knocked my socks off.

Sebastian Schutze and his team at Taschen Publishers have created the dazzling Caravaggio: The Complete Works (Taschen, 2015, 306 pages, listed as $69.99, though you can obtain it for less at various bookstores and online sites). Along with a narrative of Caravaggio’s life and an analysis of his themes and techniques, this magnificent tome includes detailed insets from many of his paintings and foldout pages designed to give viewers a more expansive view of the works under discussion. Caravaggio weighs in at over nine pounds and stands 15 inches tall, and with the exception of the text, every ounce and every inch bestows on the viewer lush examples of the painter’s work.

Before proceeding, I should tell you I am unqualified to review this book as some sort of art historian, critic or painter. I know something about a few artists, can recognize some principal works, and take pleasure in looking at paintings, but I am an amateur of the first order in any critique of art.

Yet most of us can recognize beauty when it leaps up before us, and from the moment I saw its cover illustration of Judith from

Jeff Minick

I

caught in a beam of light as he points at the tax collector Matthew, who is pointing his own finger at his chest as if to say, “Who, me?

You want me?” Two other men at the table are counting money, which is also illuminated by the beam of sunshine, while the boy whose inquisitive face is most fully caught by this light leans slightly back, as if leery of the sudden entrance of this stranger with the pointed finger.

Caravaggio is a link between Renaissance and Baroque painting, godfather to painters such as Rubens and Rembrandt. Some regard his work as the first real modern painting, an idea supported by his fidelity to what he saw.

Horticulturalists have commented on the realism of the spots and fungi found on the fruit in his “The Boy with a Basket of Fruit,” and some contemporaries criticized him for the realism and humanity of his saints.

Caravaggio was also skilled in depicting human emotions, particularly when concerned with violence.

Caravaggio: The Complete Works. Taschen, 2015. 306 pages.

In “The Martyrdom of St. Matthew,” for instance, we witness the saint about to be Matthew,” for example, we see Caravaggio’s stabbed to death in a church. The assassin, his startling use of light and shadow. Christ sword drawn back for the fatal thrust, is stands in shadow to the right of the canvas, growling or shouting at the saint; a boy, his his figure half-blocked by St. Peter, his hand “Judith and Holofernes,” Coravaggio leapt up and won my eyes and heart.

In the foldout of “The Calling of St.

hands raised in horror, his mouth wide with a shocked cry, flees terrified from the murder; other men watch with sickened or impassive expressions.

In addition to the power of his painting and his influence on other artists — in the book’s epilogue, Schutze says of Caravaggio “seldom has the art of one painter exerted so profound an influence upon a considerable number of contemporaries in so short a time” — I suspect Caravaggio fascinates us moderns because of his stormy, eventful life. He came to Rome as a very young man with nothing but his talent and ambition. He worked in the studios of several other artists before making his own way. He then dared, as I stated above, to paint what he saw: the filth on a saint’s legs, the rot in certain fruit, the horrible face of death.

Moreover, Caravaggio was a wild, violent artist. He engaged in frequent street brawls, eventually murdering a man and having to go on the lam for the rest of his life. He seemed to have positively enjoyed picking fights; he vandalized various properties; he was called “a crazy man” by one of his contemporaries at a time when street fights were common; he died mysteriously — by assassination or fever we do not know — on his return to Rome to receive his pardon.

Readers interested discovering more about Caravaggio will find several biographies and novels available for ordering from your local bookstores or online. Peter Robb’s M: The Man Who Became Caravaggio, which I am reading and which is too speculative for the biography it claims to be, nonetheless gives readers a feel for Caravaggio’s Italy and the vendettas and betrayals of that time.

As for Schutze’s Caravaggio: The Complete Works, this is more than just another art book. The collection is itself a work of art, stunning with its hundreds of pictures, its lavishly decorated cover, its vivid and solid critique.

Full marks for this one.

(Jeff Minick is a writer and teacher.

Minick0301@gmail.com)

‘Expressive Journaling Workshop’ The Mountain Artisan “Expressive Journaling Workshop” will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Waynesville Public Library.

Are you into the expressive arts? Are you a writer, songwriter, musician, dancer, choreographer, visual artist, photographer or any variation on the theme? Come and view examples of journals — from written works to idea books — to artist reflection books and beyond. This hour-ong workshop will will be your passport to definition, fluidity and cohesiveness as an expressive artist. It will be inclusive of all persons at any stage of the development of their art.

The workshop will be led by local area artist and musician Betina Morgan. It will include an instructional talk by Morgan, as well as a free journal to get you started.

Sign-up required: 828.356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

ALSO:

• A “Theme Team Book Club” is now being offered by the Waynesville Public Library. The group meets quarterly from 2 to 4 p.m. on the first Friday of the month. The next meeting is Jan. 6, with the theme “biography.” Pick any book you would like to read for the theme. Everyone gets a chance to discuss their book. 828.356.2507. Refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library.

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

Resolve to be active in 2017 WNC runs and rides offer ample options for fitness goals

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER anuary is universally recognized as the time to make a fresh start, throw away last year’s used-up calendar and dream up a new set of aspirations for the 12 months ahead. And when it comes to New Year’s resolutions aimed at becoming more active in 2017, Western North Carolina offers a dazzling array of options.

Whether you want this to be the year you do your first 5K, conquer a triathlon or climb mountains on two wheels, there’s a date on the calendar for you.

J

GET BACK IN SHAPE If getting from the couch to the finish line of a 5K is your goal for 2017, the Greening up the Mountains 5K could prove a good introduction to the world of running. Scheduled for the morning of Saturday, April 22, in Sylva, the race covers a level course on pavement and gravel road, beginning in Mark Watson Park and heading toward Dillsboro before looping back to the starting point.

In addition to the draw of an easy course just as springtime turns the mountains green, this 5K coincides with the 20th annual

Runners traverse an uphill section of the Gateway to the Smokies Half Marathon. File photo

Whitewater froths during NOC’s Hometown Throwdown competition.

NOC photo

Greening up the Mountains Festival. Held in downtown Sylva, the day features vendors set up all along Main Street as well as a full schedule of musical acts to keep things lively in Bridge Park — the perfect way to reward yourself for a run well done.

Registration for the 5K is not yet open but will soon be available at www.greeningupthemountains.com. Keep an eye out for the region’s many other 5K offerings, which will be listed in The Smoky Mountain News throughout the year.

GO THE DISTANCE If a 5K is old hat to you, consider stepping up your running regime in time to tackle the Gateway to the Smokies Half Marathon, which will be held Saturday, May 6, in downtown Waynesville.

Now in its third year, the half marathon starts on Main Street to wind 13.1 miles through the tree-lined streets of town before ascending to spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, ending with a downhill cruise to the finish line in Frog Level, a revitalized railroad district with a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

If May proves too early to get it together for a half marathon, don’t despair — plenty more opportunities will crop up later in the year.

Check out the Bethel and Cherokee Harvest half marathons in October, or Franklin’s Conquer the Mountain Half Marathon in November.

Registration for the Gateway to the Smokies Half Marathon is $55 through April 6, with prices rising afterward. www.haywoodchamber.com/events-calendar/signature-events/gateway-to-the-smokieshalf-marathon.

PADDLE STRONGER The lazy rivers and churning whitewater of WNC are known to paddlers across the country, and locals hoping that 2017 will be their year to grab a paddle and explore the waterways loved by so many will have a chance to show off their skills at the Nantahala Outdoor Center Spring Fling, held Saturday, April 29, at the NOC near Bryson City.

The Hometown Throwdown, a community freestyle event hosted by World Kayak, will give paddlers a chance to show their moves on the 2013 Wave. The day will also include an opportunity for kids to surf the Founder’s Bridge surf wave, and scheduled releases of the Cascades and Upper sections of the Nantahala River will round out the weekend.

Free, with registration required to compete at www.noc.com/events/noc-spring-fling.

Bikers pedal the Blue Ridge Breakaway. File photo

CLIMB MOUNTAINS WITH A BIKE The rugged topography of WNC can be hard to conquer on two wheels, but the effort can pay off handsomely, as anyone who participates in the Blue Ridge Breakaway — an annual bike ride that starts from Lake Junaluska — will surely discover.

This year’s Breakaway will be held Saturday, Aug. 19, offering four routes ranging from 26.5 miles to 105.7 miles. The maximum uphill grade for each route ranges from 7 to 11 percent, and the maximum downhill grade is 12 percent for all routes.

The ride is a challenging one, but slower riders need not despair — the Breakaway is a ride, not a race, so the focus is on fun rather than speed. Besides, with scenery like that on display along the Breakaway route, there’s little need for trophies. The two longer routes even include stints on the Blue Ridge Parkway, with all the dramatic views and drop-offs that the road is famous for.

When it comes to long bike rides, however, the Breakaway is certainly not the only game in town. The Tour de Cashiers and Tour de Franklin are both held in April.

Register for the Breakaway at www.haywoodchamber.com/events-calendar/signature-events/blue-ridge-breakaway. Early rates of $51, or $46 for the shortest route, are available through May 31.

RUN THE TRAILS For a hardcore trailrunner, there’s no truer test than the Naturalist 50K. The race, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 7, leaves from downtown Franklin to cover some of the most challenging terrain in the Southeast.

The route climbs to Wayah Bald via the Wallace Trail, offering runners a resupply before they head back down on the Bartram Trail. In all, the 50K route climbs more than 10,500 feet. A shorter 25K route is available as well, involving more than 7,000 feet of climbing.

Multiple food and water stations will be available and a hefty

F

A Smokies biologist will give a glimpse of plans for a brook trout restoration project in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Rendezvous Restaurant in Maggie Valley.

Matt Kulp, supervisory fish biologist for the park, will outline the timeline and volunteer opportunities for an effort to restore about 2 miles of Little Cataloochee Creek for brook trout. He’ll also give an update on the Anthony Creek brook trout restoration project and the impacts of wildfires in the park.

In the early 1900s, rainbow and brook trout were stocked in area streams, and these fish outcompeted the native brook trout to virtually wipe them out. The restoration project will entail installing a barrier to prevent non-native fish from entering the restored section, netting nonnative fish to place them away from the

TRY A TRI With two lengths of triathlon and a halfironman on the schedule, the Lake Logan Multisport Festival presents the perfect opportunity for New Year’s resolutions toward a more active 2017 to reach their culmination.

Scheduled for Aug. 5-6 at the Lake Logan Episcopal Center in Haywood County, the race is in its 11th year. While none of the races on the schedule could be considered easy, the least demanding is the Lake Logan Sprint Triathlon, which features a 500-meter swim, 12-mile bike ride and 5K run. Athletes can up the ante a bit to compete in the Lake Logan International Triathlon, which is comprised of a 1500-meter swim, 24-mile bike ride and 10K run. The most hardcore athletes will attempt the Lake Logan Half Ironman, which entails a 1.2-mile swim, 56mile bike ride and 13.1-mile run.

Register at www.gloryhoundevents.com/event/lakelogan-multisport-festival. Fees through Aug. 3 range from $65 to $155. Options are also available for those who would like to race only certain legs of each race, as well as for relay teams.

MAKE IT A TEAM EFFORT Fitness goals can become drudgery when shouldered solo, but the Smoky Mountain Overnight Relay offers the chance to pursue an adventure-based fitness goal as part of a team.

Slated for April 21-22, the 206-mile foot race is meant to be conquered by teams of 12. Starting at the Pink Beds Picnic Area in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, the course covers miles of remote trails, U.S. Forest Service roads and rural roads before reaching the finish line at the Nantahala Outdoor Center near Bryson City. Each 12person team uses two vans to hopscotch the course as team members run, cheer and occasionally sleep.

Sign up with 11 of your closest friends, or register solo to join the pool of other single runners. Ultra teams of six runners apiece may also sign up. Registration is at smr.smokymountainrelay.com, with prices ranging from $96 to $133 per runner through March 16.

Smoky Mountain News

celebration full of music and beer will wait at the finish line, but the challenge is stiff enough that anyone completing it can laugh at the notion that New Year’s resolutions are made to be broken. The race is organized by Outdoor 76.

Anyone intrigued by the concept of a trail race but intimidated by the 25K distance may be interested in the Assault on Blackrock, a challenge in its own right. The 7mile trail race, slated for Saturday, March 18, starts from the parking lot of Pinnacle Park in Sylva to ascend 2,770 feet in elevation to Blackrock before heading downhill again.

Registration is open at www.raceentry.com. sign up for the Naturalist race at www.ultrasignup.com, $80 for the 50K and $65 for the 25K.

restoration boundary, adding a chemical that will ensure all non-native species are removed without substantially harming other aquatic life, and reintroducing native brook trout.

Free, and part of Trout Unlimited Cataloochee’s regular monthly meeting.

Come early to eat if desired.

January 4-10, 2017

Runners navigate a transition during the Lake Logan Multisport Festival. File photo

Matt Kulp. Donated photo outdoors

Trout restoration project coming to Cataloochee

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outdoors

A.T. group to meet in Franklin

if left untreated ANwillinch Are you take the at risk for whole foot. diabetes?

•Over the age of 45 •Overweight •Physically inactive •Relatives with diabetes •African American •American Indian •Latino

There’s a Diabetes Prevention Program near you starting:

Jan. Jan.. 10,, 2 2017.

Registration Registr ration a is required. requirre ed.

For more information contact Janelle Messer at Jackson County Department of Public Health: 828.587.8238

January 4-10, 2017

A group focused on boosting community and visitor awareness of the Appalachian Trail in Macon County will meet at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 10, at the Rathskeller Coffee Haus in Franklin.

The Franklin Appalachian Trail Community Council works throughout the year on projects supporting the trail’s history, uses, value and conservation needs and is always looking for new volunteers to support the outdoor and A.T. community. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month. Kristina Moe, kmoe@fontanalib.org or 828.524.3600

mountainwise.org

Women-only fly-tying class planned Women who want to learn the basics of fly-tying will get a chance 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians in Bryson City.

Experienced tyers will be on hand to provide one-on-one instruction. The class is free but limited to six people. All supplies will be provided.

Sign up with Tammy Neal of Georgia Women Flyfishers, trout101@hotmail.com or 770.500.7420.

Learn to build the perfect campfire

Bookstore

R ESOLVE TO

Smoky Mountain News

A tutorial in campfire building will be offered 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Cullowhee Recreation Center.

The class will cover techniques for building and starting campfires that have the least amount of impact on the campsite. $5. Register through Jan. 13 at www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

READ

in

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3 EAST JACKSON STREET • SYLVA

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828/586-9499 • citylightsnc.com

Three dead in Smokies plane crash

We are proud to accept insurance plans from these local employers:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service photo

Red wolf killed in wildlife refuge A reward of $5,000 is being offered in the case of a red wolf that was shot and killed around Dec. 19 in Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, located east of Greenville.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found the red wolf on Dec. 21 and is offering a reward of $2,500 for information regarding the culprit. Defenders of Wildlife, whose regional director Ben Prater called the death a “tragedy” that is “inexcusable,” will match the FWS award.

Though fewer than 45 red wolves remain in the wild, the species once ranged from Pennsylvania to Florida and west to Texas.

However, habitat loss and hunting reduced the population until it eventually became extinct in the wild. The FWS has since tried to reintroduce them in the wild, with a failed effort in the Smokies followed by a reintroduction in eastern North Carolina.

The population in eastern North Carolina has been the subject of a legal back-andforth in recent years. The most recent chapter in the story involved the FWS’s decision to curtail reintroduction efforts in eastern North Carolina, a decision that many environmental groups decried.

January 4-10, 2017

The search and rescue team embarks on their mission. NPS photo

outdoors

Three people have died in a plane crash that occurred Monday, Dec. 26, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The three victims were David Starling, 41, Kim Smith, 42, and Hunter Starling, 8, all of Bradford County, Florida.

The search for the Cessna 182 — a fixedwing, single-engine aircraft — began when it was reported missing south of the Sevierville Airport. Late in the day on Tuesday, Dec. 27, the Tennessee Army National Guard found the plane on an unnamed ridge between Cole Creek and Bearpen Hollow Branch, in the park.

On Wednesday, Dec. 28, recovery operations began. The Smokies technical rescue team saw support in the mission by experts from the Big South Fork National Recreation Area, the Obed National Scenic River and Tennessee State Parks. This required securing the plane wreckage and extracting the victims via helicopter, all done in a steep and heavily wooded terrain.

“The plane is positioned on a very steep mountainside and could be at risk of sliding further down into the drainage,” said Smokies Chief Ranger Steve Kloster. “These search and rescue personnel specialize in high-angle rescues and have the best knowledge in making sure we conduct our operations in the safest manner possible.”

Agencies involved in the search and rescue operation include the Tennessee Army National Guard, Air Force Rescue Coordination Center, Civil Air Patrol, Federal Aviation Administration, National Transportation Safety Board, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and Tennessee State Parks along with rangers from Obed National Scenic River and Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting an investigation of the crash.

Diane E. Sherrill, Attorney

Is a Will Enough?

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outdoors

Farm School returns to WNC

We are excited to have Bill Morris, pharmacist & nutritionist with us full time!

Bill focuses on a holistic approach and specializes in: • • • • • • • • • • •

Fibromyalgia Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Adrenal Fatigue Sub-Clinical Hypothyroidism Osteo & Rheumatoid Arthritis Gout ADHD Poor Immune System/Shingles Ulcerative Colitis Acne Pain Relief

366 RUSS AVE | WAYNESVILLE | 828.452.0911

Smoky Mountain News

January 4-10, 2017

BiLo Shopping Center Find us on facebook: www.facebook.com/kimspharmacy

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Free, with registration required at The Appalachian Farm School will www.southwesterncc.edu/sbc. return to Southwestern Community College in Swain County for its third year on Jan. 10, offering established and aspiring farmers a tutorial on the business side of agriculture.

Classes meet from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays from Jan. 10 to Feb. 28 at SCC’s Swain Center. Topics include farm evaluation, Tiffany Henry speaks with goal-setting, marketing, participants at last year’s farm pricing, rules and regulaschool. Donated photo tions, an introduction to wholesale and funding Tiffany Henry, options. Subject-matter experts will offer t_henrysouthwesterncc.edu or up-to-date information and connections to 828.339.4426. local and statewide resources.

Seed ordering day coming to Jackson Jackson County’s only farmers market of the month — complete with a seed ordering operation — will be held 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at The Community Table in Sylva.

In addition to the typical set of vendors, shoppers will have the chance to order seeds in bulk from Fedco and Johnny’s Select Seeds, with catalogues on site for assistance in ordering. Soup and bread will also be sold as a fundraiser for the market.

Seed distribution will take place at the next Jackson County Farmers Market, on Saturday, Feb. 11. www.jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.com.

Cattle working equipment available for community use New cattle working equipment will soon be available for community use in Swain and Jackson counties.

The Jackson and Swain County Cooperative Extension bought the equipment using Tennessee Valley Authority funds granted to the Southwestern Resources Conservation and Development Council.

The aim is to help cattle producers improve their herd’s health, welfare and productivity — as well as beef quality and profitability — by providing equipment that would be difficult for a producer to purchase for his or her individual farm.

The limit of equipment use is based on the job but may not exceed seven days. The only exception is the grazing fence kit, which can be used for a three-month period. Fees vary depending on the piece of equipment, ranging from $20 to $50.

Available equipment includes a squeeze chute, corral system with trailer, calf table,

mobile technology to help you get a lot less mobile.

Log on. Plan a trip.

And start kicking back.

The new cattle chute is put to use at the Burrell farm in Tuckasegee as Frank Burrell and Virginia Mulligan vaccinate their cattle.

Donated photo

palp/AI cage and amazing grazing kit. All equipment should be in by late January.

Contact Robert Hawk to rent equipment.

828.586.4009 or 828.488.3848.

Farm Service elections open A make-up election for the Farm Service Agency County Committee in Swain and Jackson counties is now open, after the results of the December election were declared invalid.

Suffixes were missing on the names of some candidates on the ballot, so a make-up election was scheduled to ensure accuracy.

Farmers and livestock producers can obtain a ballot from the local FSA office, and all ballots must be returned by Feb. 1.

Contact 828.488.2684, ext. 2, Wednesday through Friday or 828.524.3175, ext. 2, Monday through Wednesday.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • Mike Wolf, Frank Fritz and their team are excited to return to North Carolina. They plan to film episodes of the hit series AMERICAN PICKERS throughout the region this fall. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send us your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855.old.rust.

• Cruise in Maggie Valley event is held from 1-5 p.m. every Sunday at 2771 Soco Road. Vendors: $10 per space. Cruising@MaggieValleyAntiques.com.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • Haywood Community College will offer a series of skill building classes comprising Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Lutherie. HCC Professional Crafts alum and local Luthier, Bill Weinert will lead the series. Each of the classes can be found at www.creativearts.haywood.edu: Intro to Lutherie (Cigar Box/Stick Dulcimer), Intermediate Lutherie (Appalachian Banjo/Lap Dulcimer), and Advanced Lutherie (Guitar/Fiddle). Please call 565.4240 for more information or to register.

• Haywood Community College will hold two additional days of registration for its spring semester on Wednesday and Thursday, Jan. 4-5. Payment due by the end of Jan. 5. Classes start Jan. 9. www.haywood.edu.

• Haywood Community College Continuing Education Creative Arts is pleased to announce an expanded selection of music classes spearheaded by local musicians Julie and Bryan McConnell. Classes will include vocal, percussion, and two levels of string classes with an emphasis on practical theories and physical techniques. For more information on these classes or to register, please call 565.4240.

• “Our History, Heritage and Headlines” is the topic of the January program of the Jackson County Genealogical Society, which meets at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12, in the Community Room of the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. 631.2646 or visit the club on Facebook.

• Registration is underway for an American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification course that starts Jan. 17 at Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center in Clyde. Course fee is $235 for members and $255 for nonmembers. 452.8056.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS • A charitable pint night is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Jan. 19 at Blue Ghost Brewery in Fletcher to benefit emergency fire relief efforts in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A program on elk in Western North Carolina will be offered, and a specialty batch Centennial White IPA is on tap to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service.

• Save the date: Mardi Gras Ball benefit for the Haywood County Schools Foundation is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25, at Laurel Ridge Country Blub. Sponsored by Entegra Bank.

VOLUNTEERS & VENDORS • REACH of Macon County, which also serves Jackson County, will hold a two-day volunteer training from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Jan. 5-6. Twenty hours of training required for volunteers at a domestic violence agency in the state. Info: 369.5544.

• Greening up the Mountains Festival is seeking artists,

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. mountain crafters, environmental and food vendors to apply for a booth in its 20th festival, which is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on April 22. Applications available at www.greeningupthemountains.com, or call 631.4587.

HEALTH MATTERS • An acupuncture clinic for Haywood County veterans to help with effects of PTSD will be offered at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Jan. 4-18, and at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, at Waynesville Wellness. 356.5577.

• “Detox Your Life Naturally” – an eco-forum – is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 6, at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall in Franklin.

Presented by Dr. Linda Sparks, N.D., of Blue Ridge Natural Health. 524.3691.

• The Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Action Team of Healthy Carolinians of Jackson County will meet at 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 11 at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. Group’s goal is to increase physical activity and healthy eating. 587.8292 or lizcochran@jacksonnc.org.

• A prenatal breastfeeding class for pregnant mothersto-be and support persons will be offered at 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 12 at the Haywood County Health and Human Services in Waynesville. Registration required: 356.2207 or 452.2211.

• A “Woman to Woman” event on “Health, Hope and Happiness through Midlife and Beyond” is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12, at Harris Women’s Care in Sylva, across the street from Harris Regional Hospital. Featuring nurse practitioner Kathy Walsh. Info and RSVP: 631.8894.

• Preparation for Childbirth classes will be taught by a certified childbirth educator from 7-9 p.m. on Thursdays from Jan. 12-Feb. 2, March 30-April 20, June 1-June 22, Aug. 3, Aug. 24 and Oct. 12-Nov. 2 at Haywood Regional Medical Center. 452.8440 or MyHaywoodRegional.com/ParentClasses.

• Big Brother/Big Sister, a one-evening preparation class for children who are about to greet a new baby into their family, is offered for children ages 3-10 at Haywood Regional Medical Center. 452.8440 or MyHaywoodRegional.com/ParentClasses.

• Mothers Connection, an ongoing social gathering for mothers and their babies, meets from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Thursdays excluding holidays at Haywood Regional Medical Center. 452.8440 or MyHaywoodRegional.com/ParentClasses.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12, at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. For info or to make an appointment: www.redcrossblood.org or 800.733.2767.

• Assistance with Marketplace Open Enrollment is available through Mountain Projects. Enrollment through the Affordable Care Act is currently open and lasts until Jan. 31. 452.1447 or 800.627.1548.

• A support group meeting for those with Parkinsons Disease and their caregivers will be held at 2 p.m. on the last day Wednesday of the month at the Waynesville Senior Resource Center.

• A support group for anyone with Multiple Sclerosis, family and friends meets twice each month: at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in the Heritage Room at the Jackson County Senior Center in Sylva and at 5:30 p.m. on the second Thursday at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter of National MS Society. Info:

Smoky Mountain News

293.2503. Offered in cooperation with the Southwestern Commission Agency on Aging.

• A monthly grief support group sponsored by The Meditation Center meets at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at The Meditation Center at 894 East Main Street in Sylva. Info: www.meditatewnc.org or 356.1105.

• Inner Guidance from an Open Heart will meet from 68 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at The Meditation Center at 894 East Main Street in Sylva.

Info: www.meditate-wnc.org or 356.1105.

• Dogwood Insight Center presents health talks at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month.

• Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes are available at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. Classes are offered bimonthly on an ongoing basis. Register or get more info: 586.7907.

• Angel Medical Center’s diabetes support group meets at 4 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month in the AMC dining room. 369.4166.

• A free weekly grief support group is open to the public from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at SECU Hospice House in Franklin. Hosted by Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

• A monthly grief processing support group will meet from 4-5:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at the Homestead Hospice and Palliative Care in Clyde.

452.5039.

• A Men’s Night Out will take place at 6:30 p.m. on the third floor of the hospital. on the first Wednesday of each month at The Meditation Center at 894 E. Main St. in Sylva. www.meditatewnc.org or 356.1105.

• A free, weekly grief support group will meet from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at the SECU Hospice House in Franklin. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

• “ECA on the Move!” – a walking program organized

by Jackson County Extension and Community Association – meets from 9-10 a.m. on Mondays through Thursdays. It’s an effort to meet the American Heart Association’s recommendation of 10,000 steps per day. 586.4009.

• A Tuesday Meditation Group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Franklin.

RECREATION AND FITNESS • The Smoky Mountain Roller Girls are seeking new skaters to join the team. Referees also needed. Females over age 18. Practice is from 6-8 p.m. on Sundays and Wednesdays starting Jan. 8 at the Swain County Recreation Center on West Deep Creek Road in Bryson City.

• Registration is underway for ski/snowboard lessons at the Cataloochee Ski Resort. For ages 8-up. Sundays for five weeks: Jan. 8, 22, 29, Feb. 5 and 12. Lesson is from 1:30-3 p.m.; lift ticket valid from 12:30-4:30 p.m. Lift only: $109; lift and lesson: $135. 293.2053 or www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• Registration is underway for ZUMBA! Classes, which will be offered from 6-7 p.m. starting Tuesday, Jan. 10, at the Canton Armory. $5 per class or early bird special of $60 for all 15 classes. 648.2363 or parks@cantonnc.com.

• Friday night skiing and snowboarding is being offered through the Jackson County Parks & Recreation Department starting Jan. 20 at Cataloochee Ski Resort.

Hours are 5-9 p.m. on Jan. 20, Feb. 10 and March 3. $25 lift only; $35 for lift and rental; $45 for lift, rental

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Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings and lesson. www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• Tai chi is offered from 10:45-11:45 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center. It’s also offered from 1-2 p.m. on Thursdays. Taught by Bill Muerdter. For info about the classes or HRHFC memberships and offerings, call 452.8080 or visit MyHaywoodRegional.com/Fitness.

• Pickleball is from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesdays through Thursdays at First Methodist Church in Sylva. $1 each time you play; equipment provided. 293.3053.

• The Canton Armory is open to the public for walking from 7:45-9 a.m. on Monday through Friday unless the facility is booked till spring. 648.2363. parks@cantonnc.com.

• Pickle ball is offered from 8 a.m.-noon on Mondays through Fridays at the Waynesville Recreation Center.

456.2030 or www.waynesvillnc.gov.

POLITICAL • A swearing-in ceremony will be held for incoming N.C. General Assembly member Mike Clampitt at 2 p.m. on Jan. 7 on the second floor of the Swain County Heritage Museum in Bryson City. Clampitt is the first Republican House member from the 119th District’s Swain County in more than 100 years.

• A lunch-and-discussion group will be held by the League of Women Voters at noon on the second Thursday of each month at Tartan Hall of the First Presbyterian Church in Franklin. RSVP for lunch: lwvmacon@wild-dog-mountain.info or 524.8369.

AUTHORS AND BOOKS • New York Times bestselling author Dr. William R. Forstchen will have a book-signing event for his newest work “The Final Day” from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Jan. 14 at Carolina Readiness Supply (72 Montgomery St.) in Waynesville. 456.5310 or www.carolinareadiness.com.

• A “Theme Team Book Club” is now being offered by the Waynesville Public Library. The group meets quarterly from 2-4 p.m. on the first Friday of the month. The next meeting is Jan. 6, with the theme “biography.” Pick any book you would like to read for the theme. Everyone gets a chance to discuss their book. 828.356.2507.

Refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library.

• Cookin’ the Books will be held at noon on the last Wednesday of the month at the Waynesville Public Library. A book club focused on cookbooks. All members choose a recipe from the book and bring it to share. The group will discuss the good and bad aspects of the chosen cookbook. 356.2507.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES • The Mexican Train Dominoes Group seeks new players to join games at 1:30 p.m. each Tuesday at the Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 926.6567.

• Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina – an effort to help area residents commit to a healthier lifestyle, will

wnc calendar

meet from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

• Haywood County Senior Resource Center is looking into starting a weekly Euchre Card Group. If interested, contact Michelle Claytor at mclaytor@mountainprojects.org or 356.2800.

KIDS & FAMILIES • Anime Club meets from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 5, in the Macon County Public Library program room in Franklin. Open to sixth graders through college-age.

Topics include basic Japanese words, Japanese culture and manga. Arts, crafts, refreshments, games and more. 524.3600.

• Registration is underway for Haywood County Public Library’s “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program, which starts Jan. 10 at the Waynesville and Canton Libraries. For each 100 books read, children receive a prize. At 1,000 books, children receive a free book and have a favorite book placed in the library collection in his/her honor. Storytimes are at 11 a.m. on Jan. 10-12 at the Waynesville Library and 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 10 and 12 and 6 p.m. on Jan. 12 at the Canton Library.

648.2924 (Canton) or 356.2511 (Waynesville).

• Construction Zone! will be held at 4 p.m. Jan. 10, at the Canton Library. The library will supply the LEGO® building blocks, you supply the imagination! For children ages 6-12. For more information, please call 648.2924. Continues on the 4th Wednesday of the following months.

• Evening story time is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Jan. 12 at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

• Homeschool book explorers meets at 2 p.m. on Jan. 16 at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

• “Plug In and Read Digital Storytime” is at 11 a.m. on Jan. 18 at the Waynesville Library. 356.2507.

January 4-10, 2017

• Fines Creek Story time is at 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 18 at the Fines Creek Library. 627.0146.

• A Winter Reading Challenge started Dec. 15 at Haywood County libraries. Stop by any county library for a reading bingo card. Complete challenge by Feb. 1.

• Registration is underway for Homeschool P.E. through Jackson County Parks & Recreation Department. $20.

Classes will meet at 10 a.m. every Tuesday starting Jan. 31 for 10 weeks. For ages 5-15. www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

KIDS MOVIES • Rogue One is now playing at The Strand on Main in Waynesville. Jan 4-6 at 7 p.m, Saturday, Jan 7 at 1 p.m., 3:55 p.m., 6:50 p.m. and 9:45 p.m., Sunday, Jan 8 at 1:10 pm, 4:05 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Jan 9-12 at 7 p.m.. www.38main.com.

Smoky Mountain News

• Kubo & The Two Strings will be shown on Friday Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 pm. And Saturday Jan. 7 at 2

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at The Mad Batter Food & Film. Free. 586.3555.

• The second Tuesday movie club meets at 2 p.m. on Jan. 10 at the Waynesville Library. 356.2507.

• A family friendly movie will be shown at 9:45 a.m. on Jan. 11 at the Waynesville Library. 356.2507.

• A family movie will be shown at 10:30 a.m. every Friday at Hudson Library in Highlands.

A&E ON STAGE & IN CONCERT • The Canton Armory will host “Winter Pickin’ in the Armory” at 7 p.m. every first and third Friday of the month (starting Jan. 6). The event includes mountain music, vintage country, clogging and dancing. Doors open at 6 p.m. Free. www.cantonnc.com.

• Acclaimed Jackson County saxophonist Tyler Kittle will perform with Folk Songs (world music) at 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 6, at Sazon in Cullowhee. 828.293.9443 or www.sazoncullowhee.com.

• The MET Opera’s production of Nabucco by Verdi will be presented live via satellite at 12:55 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7 at the Highlands Performing Arts Center at 507 Chestnut Street in Highlands. Tickets: highlandspac.org, at the door or 526.9047.

• Friends of the Library Concert Series featuring folk songs by saxophonist Tyler Kittle is at 3 p.m. on Jan. 8 at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

• Western Carolina University (Cullowhee) will host a Low Brass Festival Guest Artist Rehearse at 7 p.m. Jan. 12 and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13 in the Coulter Building.

• Jamey Johnson is returning to Harrah’s Cherokee on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee/shows

• Music and Clogging is held from 8-10:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays at the Stomping Ground at 3116 Soco Road in Maggie Valley. 926.1288.

• An expressive arts journaling workshop will be offered from 5-6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Waynesville Library. Instructed by Betina Morgan, local artist and musician. Registration required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

• Coloring Club will be hosted on the second Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m. at Canton Library.

Color pencils and color pages supplied. For ages 8 to 108. 648.2924.

• Beginners Chess Club is held on Fridays at 4 p.m. at the Canton Public Library. Ages 8-108 invited to participate. 648.2924.

• The Jackson County Cooperative Extension Craft Group meets from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 17.

Create a miniature birdhouse. Register: 586.4009.

• ADULTing 101 is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 17 at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

• A Mountain Artisan Workshop is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Jan. 19 at the Waynesville Library. 356.2507.

ART SHOWINGS AND GALLERIES • A three-month ceramics exhibit at the Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum is currently in Cullowhee. Fineartmuseum.wcu.edu or 227.3591.

• Air Supply is on stage at Harrah’s Casino in Cherokee on Friday, Jan. 13 at 9 p.m. Ticket prices are $20 and up. https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee/shows • The National Theatre of London’s presentation of “No Man’s Land” will be shown live via satellite at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Highlands Performing Arts

• Artist Melba Cooper will be exhibiting her stunning series of paintings, “POLLINATION,” at Cullowhee Mountain Arts’ (CMA) Studio in downtown Sylva.

• The “Women Painters of the Southeast” exhibition will run Jan. 9 through May 5 in the Fine Arts Museum at Western Carolina University. A reception will be held at the museum from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 19. www.wcu.edu.

• A showcase on the life and times of Horace Kephart will be on display through March 31 in the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University. The Mountain Heritage Center’s Kephart Collection is composed of 127 objects, including Kephart’s tent, sleeping bag, backpack and the writing desk. The exhibit will display many of these objects in a campsite setting. 227.7129.

Outdoors

• Blue Ridge Parkway is seeking public comment about a proposed policy for allowing only heat-treated, bundled and sealed firewood. Comment is accepted through Jan. 7 at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/blriheattreatedwood.

• A Smokies biologist will give a glimpse of plans for a brook trout restoration project in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Rendezvous Restaurant in Maggie Valley.

• A live video chat with a NASA engineer is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. 524.3600.

• The Franklin Appalachian Trail Community Council meets at 10 a.m. every second Tuesday at Rathskeller Coffee Haus in Franklin.

• Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute will host a program on “Is The Sky Falling” at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 13, in Rosman. Reservations required by 3 p.m. on the day of the program. $20 for adults; $15 for seniors/military. Children 10 and under admitted free. www.pari.edu or 862.5554. Info: schappell@pari.edu.

• A program on building and starting minimum impact campfires will be offered from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14 at the Cullowhee Recreation Center. Register by Jan. 13. $5.

• A fly-tying beginner workshop for women will be offered from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, by the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians in the Project Healing Waters conference room of the museum at 210 Main Street in Bryson City. trout101@hotmail.com or 770.500.7420.

• The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission will hold a meeting at 7 p.m. on Jan. 17 at Haywood Community College’s auditorium in Clyde on proposed changes to 39 agency regulations related to wildlife management, fisheries and game lands for the 2017-18 seasons.

Comments accepted through Feb. 1 at regulations@ncwildlife.org.

Puzzles can be found on page 38.

These are only the answers.

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www.cullowheemountainarts.org/up-in-the-studioevents or 342.6913.

• Michael Bolton will be preforming on Friday, Feb. 24 at Harrah’s Casino in Cherokee at 9 p.m. https://www.caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee/shows

• The exhibit “Emissaries of Peace: 1762 Cherokee & British Delegations” features Cherokee clothing, feather capes, beads, and other artifacts. It is currently on display at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and is also available for travel. www.cherokeemuseum.org or bduncan@cherokeemuseum.org.

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• Tickets are on sale now for a presentation by Step Afrika! with spoken-word artist Kyla Lacey, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, in the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University. Part of the Arts and Cultural Events series. $20 for non-students; free for students. Pre-registration required: tcbowers@catamount.wcu.edu (students) or hensley@wcu.edu (non-students).

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS

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(3/10 (3/10 Mile Mile North North of of the the Courthouse) Courthouse)

Center at 507 Chestnut Street in Highlands. Featuring actors Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen. Tickets: highlandspac.org, at the door or 526.9047.

(Located (Located in in the the NAPA NAPA Auto Auto Parts Parts Center) Center)

PRIME REAL ESTATE Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MarketPlace information: The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 every week to over 500 locations across in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties along with the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. For a link to our MarketPlace Web site, which also contains a link to all of our MarketPlace display advertisers’ Web sites, visit www.smokymountainnews.com.

Rates:

■ Free — Lost or found pet ads.

■ $5 — Residential yard sale ads, ■ $5 — Non-business items that sell for less than $150.

■ $15 — Classified ads that are 50 words or less; each additional line is $2.

If your ad is 10 words or less, it will be displayed with a larger type.

■ $3 — Border around ad and $5 — Picture with ad or colored background.

■ $50 — Non-business items, 25 words or less. 3 month or till sold.

■ $300 — Statewide classifieds run in 117 participating newspapers with 1.6 million circulation. Up to 25 words.

■ All classified ads must be pre-paid.

Classified Advertising: Scott Collier, phone 828.452.4251; fax 828.452.3585 classads@smokymountainnews.com

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BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

STOP OVERPAYING For your prescriptions! SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy,compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1.800.265.0768 YOUR AD COULD REACH 1.6 MILLION HOMES ACROSS NC! Your classified ad could be reaching over 1.6 Million Homes across North Carolina! Place your ad with The Smoky Mountain News on the NC Statewide Classified Ad Network- 118 NC newspapers for a low cost of $375 for 25-word ad to appear in each paper! Additional words are $10 each. The whole state at your fingertips! It's a smart advertising buy! Call Scott Collier at 828.452.4251 or for more information visit the N.C. Press Association's website at www.ncpress.com

BUILDING MATERIALS HAYWOOD BUILDERS Garage Doors, New Installations Service & Repairs, 828.456.6051 100 Charles St. Waynesville Employee Owned.

CONSTRUCTION/ REMODELING FOR SALE: HEATILATOR I-60 Wood Burning Fireplace, for Built In Applications, Large Firebox Opening, with 30ft. Chimney.

New in Original Packaging, $600 For More Information Call 828.696.5039.

ALL THINGS BASEMENTY! Basement Systems Inc. Call us for all of your basement needs! Waterproofing, Finishing, Structural Repairs, Humidity and Mold Control.

FREE ESTIMATES! Call 1.800.698.9217

CONSTRUCTION/ REMODELING BATHTUB REFINISHING Renew or change the color of your bathtub, tile or sink. Fiberglass repair specialists! 5 year warranty.

Locally owned since 1989. CarolinasTubDoctor.com. 888.988.4430.

HAYWOOD BUILDERS Garage Doors, New Installations Service & Repairs, 828.456.6051 100 Charles St. Waynesville Employee Owned.

MOTORCYCLES

DAVE’S CUSTOM HOMES OF WNC, INC Free Estimates & Competitive rates. References avail. upon request. Specializing in: Log Homes, remodeling, decks, new construction, repairs & additions.

Owner/Builder: Dave Donaldson.

Licensed/Insured.

828.631.0747

CRAZY BOB’S BIKER STUFF Jackets, Chaps, Vests, Helmets, Rain Gear, Saddlebags, Sissy Bar Bags, Tool Bags, Stickers, Patches. We also got you covered with 50 Sizes of Tarps: Heavy Duty Silver, Brown & Green, Blue & Silver, Blue & Camo.

1880 Dellwood Rd., Waynesville 828.926.1177

SAFE STEP WALK-IN TUB: Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door.

Anti-Slip Floors. American Made.

Installation Included. Call Now 800.701.9850 to receive $750 Off.

A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR For Breast Cancer! Help United Breast Foundation Education, Prevention, & Support Programs. Fast Free Pickup - 24 Hr Response - Tax Deduction 855.306.7348 SAPA

FROG POND ESTATE SALES HELPING IN HARD TIMES

DOWNSIZING ESTATE SALES CLEAN OUT SERVICE • COMPANY TRANSFER • DIVORCE • LOST LOVED ONE

WE ARE KNOWN FOR HONESTY & INTEGRITY 828-734-3874 18 COMMERCE STREET WAYNESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA 28786 WWW.FROGLEVELDOWNSIZING.COM

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CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!!

Top Dollar! Free Towing From Home, Office or body Shop. All Makes/Models 2000-2016. Same Day Pick-Up Available! Call Now: 1.800.761.9396 SAPA HIGH RISK DRIVER? Had a DUI? Stop paying too much for R-22, FR-44, or similar HighRisk Car Insurance! Call our FREE hotline today & SAVE money!

888.591.1852 STOP PAYING FOR Expensive Auto Repairs! Get discounted warranty coverage from the wholesale source, and don’t pay for expensive covered repairs!

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WNC MarketPlace

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ATTENTION FACEBOOK & TWITTER Users! Earn 3K+ per month for just using what you already use for free! For details follow this link: tinyurl.com/MoneyOnSocialMedia BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! Publications sold at all major secular & specialty Christian bookstores. CALL Christian Faith Publishing Now for your FREE author submission kit.

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EMPLOYMENT AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING Get FAA Certification. Approved For Military Benefits. Financial Aid If Qualified. Job Placement Assistance. Call Aviation Institute Of Maintenance 1.866.724.5403 SAPA ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS Job Opening, Event, Items For Sale, Auction etc. in this newspaper plus 100 other newspapers across the state for only $375. For more info, contact the classified department of this newspaper or email: ads@ncpress.com

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN NEWS Is Seeking a Motivated Professional Who Enjoys Meeting People and Helping Businesses with Their Marketing Needs. We Have an Immediate Opening for a Full-Time Sales Representative in Haywood County. For More Info Contact Greg Boothroyd at: greg@smokymountainnews.com B.H. GRANING LANDSCAPES, INC Now hiring for the position of crew member - the grass is growing and so is our business come join our team. Full-time year round work, competitive wages, good work environment.

Please call 828.586.8303 for more info or email resume to: roger.murajda@bhlandscapes. com

January 4-10, 2017

AMP - A YOUNG LAB MIX BOY ABOUT 1-1/2 YEARS OLD. HE IS HIGH ENERGY AND HAS A LOT OF ENTHUSIASM FOR LIFE--HE CAN JUMP AS HIGH AS SIX FEET BUT HE ISN'T TRYING TO ESCAPE, HE'S JUST HAPPY! HE'LL NEED AN ACTIVE FAMILY TO KEEP HIM BUSY AND MAKE SURE HE GETS EXERCISE AND TRAINING. HE IS EXTREMELY HANDSOME AND A SWEETHEART. OAKLEY - A REALLY CUTE TUXEDO BOY KITTY ABOUT FOUR MONTHS OLD. HE HAS A LOOK OF SURPRISE ON HIS LITTLE FACE, WHICH MAKES HIM EVEN CUTER. HE'S A FUNNY LITTLE GUY, PLAYFUL AND SILLY, AND WILL BRING A LOT OF JOY TO HIS NEW FAMILY. HE LOVES TO PLAY HIDE AND SEEK WITH HIS BLANKIE.

MEDICAL BILLING & CODING Trainees! Process Insurance claims for Dr's & Hospitals!! No Experience Needed! Online Training can get you job ready!

1.888.512.7122 HS Diploma/GED careertechnical.edu/nc NUCLEAR POWER TRAINEE Paid Training, great salary, benefits, $ for school. Gain value skills.

No exp needed. medical/dental, vacation. HS grads ages 17-34.

Call Monday - Friday 800.662.7419 DRIVE WITH UBER. No experience is required, but you'll need a Smartphone. It's fun and easy. For more information, call: 1.800.655.7452 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a driver for Stevens Transport! No Experience Needed!

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NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Offering 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $400 Section 8 Accepted - Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

OFFICE HOURS: Monday & Wednesday 8:00am - 4:00pm 168 E. Nicol Arms Road Sylva, NC 28779

Phone# 1.828.273.3639 TDD# 1.800.735.2962

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT HEAD START/NC PRE-K TEACHER-HAYWOOD COUNTY Must have a Birth-K or BS related field with course work, and teaching license. This position also requires computer skills, the ability to work with diverse population/community partners, good judgment/problem solving skills, lead role in classroom and time management skills.

Candidate will be responsible for classroom/paperwork. 2 yrs. experience in Pre-K classroom preferred. Full-time with benefits. EOE/AA. Please apply at Mountain Projects, Inc 2251 Old Balsam Rd, Waynesville, NC 28786 or www.mountainprojects.org

DRIVERS: REGIONAL & OTR. Excellent Pay + Rider Program.

Family Medical/Dental Benefits.

Great Hometime + Weekends.

CDL-A, 1yr. Exp. 877.758.3905 CENTER SUPERVISOR KNEEDLER CHILD DEVELOPMENT - WCU Must have BS Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field and Administrative Level III Credentials, Basic Computer Knowledge, 2-3 yrs. Exp. in NC Day Care Regulations, 2-3 yrs.

Supervisory Exp. and Good Judgment Skills. This is an 11 month position with benefits. Applications will be taken at Mountain Projects, 2251 Old Balsam Rd., Waynesville or 25 Schulman St., Sylva or you may go to website: www.mountainprojects.org and fill out an application online Pre-Employment drug testing req EOE/AA

U.S. NAVY IS HIRING Elite tech training withgreat pay, benefits, vacation, $ for school. HS grads ages 17-34. Call Mon.-Fri. 800.662.7419

CAVALIER ARMS APARTMENTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Offering 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $400 Section 8 Accepted - Rental Assistance When Available Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday 12:30pm - 4:00pm & Friday. 8:00am- 4:00pm 50 Duckett Cove Road, Waynesville

Phone # 1-828-456-6776 TDD # 1-800-725-2962 Equal Housing Opportunity

This is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

Ann Eavenson R B A ESIDENTIAL

Judy Meyers

MOUNTAIN REALTY

Mieko Thomson www.smokymountainnews.com

ROKER/R /REALTOR EALTOR®® BBROKER

Cell (828) 226-2298 Cell

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www.beverly-hanks.com

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Mountain Realty

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828.452.5809 office

ROB ROLAND 828-400-1923

Ron Breese Broker/Owner

RROLAND33@GMAIL.COM

2177 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 Cell: 828.400.9029 ron@ronbreese.com

Find the home you are looking for at www.robrolandrealty.com

www.ronbreese.com

Each office independently owned & operated.

ROKER

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ann@beverly-hanks.com

Residential · Land · Commercial

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT

OUR HUNTERS WILL PAY Top $$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1.866.309.1507 www.BaseCampLeasing.com

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

HOMES FOR SALE BRUCE MCGOVERN A Full Service Realtor, Locally Owned and Operated mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com McGovern Property Management 828.283.2112.

OUR HUNTERS WILL PAY Top $$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1.866.309.1507 www.BaseCampLeasing.com

MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE REPOSSESSED MOBILE HOMES. Move in ready. No rent option, but buying could be cheaper than rent!

Owner financing on select homes with approved credit.

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CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE FOR YOU

Haywood County Real Estate Agents

147 WALNUT STREET • WAYNESVILLE

828.506.7137

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Taake akkee thhe the Viirtual Vi rtu rttuual Toour To ur! u

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828.734.6500, 828.734.6700 maggievalleyselfstorage.com 12X28 STORAGE UNIT FOR RENT In Tuckaseegee, Half Mile Down Highway 281. $130/mo.

For More Information Call 828.450.0534.

GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE Conveniently located off 19/23

by Thad Woods Auction. Available for lease now: 10’x10’ units for $55, 20’x20’ units for $160.

Get one month FREE with 12 month contract. Call 828.507.8828 or 828.506.4112 for more info.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS Job Opening, Event, Items For Sale, Auction etc. in this newspaper plus 100 other newspapers across the state for only $375. For more info, contact the classified department of this newspaper or email: ads@ncpress.com

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Above A bbo vve M Maggie aggie V Va Valley l le y Country C o u n t r y Club C lu b 2 D/2 A 2BD/2BA 1904 90 4 Sqq F Ftt - 2.

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Hours:

Tuesday-Friday, 12 Noon - 6 pm 182 Richland Street, Waynesville

• • • •

Catherine Proben - cproben@beverly-hanks.com Ellen Sither - EllenSither@beverly-hanks.com Mike Stamey - MikeStamey@beverly-hanks.com Pamela Williams - PamelaWilliams@beverly-hanks.com

Emerson Group • George Escaravage - george@emersongroupus.com

ERA Sunburst Realty - sunburstrealty.com • Amy Spivey - amyspivey.com • Rick Boarder - sunburstrealty.com Haywood Properties - haywoodproperties.com • Steve Cox - info@haywoodproperties.com Keller Williams Realty

828.400.0901

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Lakeshore Realty

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• Phyllis Robinson - lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

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Let Us Help You.

$50 off Radon Test with an Inspection

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828.734.3609 | haywoodhomeinsp@gmail.com

Committed to Exceeding Expectations

Prevent Unwanted Litters!

The Heat Is On! Spay/Neuter For Haywood Pets As Low As $10.

Operation Pit is in Effect!

Free Spay/Neuter, Microchip & Vaccines For Haywood Pitbull Types & Mixes!

beverly-hanks.com Ann Eavenson - AnnEavenson@beverly-hanks.com Randy Flanigan - RandyFlanigan@beverly-hanks.com Michelle McElroy - MichelleMcElroy@beverly-hanks.com Marilynn Obrig - MarilynnObrig@beverly-hanks.com Brooke Parrott - BrookeParrott@beverly-hanks.com

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ASHEVILLE, NC 28804

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• • • • •

Marilynn Obrig

Residential Broker Associate

(828) 550-2810

mobrig@Beverly-Hanks.com

www.Beverly-Hanks.com

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

Mountain Home Properties mountaindream.com • Sammie Powell - smokiesproperty.com

McGovern Real Estate & Property Management • Bruce McGovern - shamrock13.com

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38

CROSSWORD

COMMON ENDINGS ACROSS 1 Apply, as a coating of powdered sugar 7 Bay on the Mass./R.I. border 13 Had a nosh 20 Realm of Menelaus 21 Oscar Mayer rival 22 “Godfather of Fitness” Jack 23 Cruel canards 25 Wise about 26 Argentina’s Juan and Eva 27 Make moola 29 French telephone greeting 30 Part of IOC: Abbr.

33 Old glory 38 Quick laugh 40 Chichi 41 Crusty treat 42 Odd sort 47 Sailor’s diary 48 Gas Booster brand 51 Enzyme name ending 52 Linz’s river 53 “— luck” (“It didn’t happen”) 56 — anglais (English horn) 57 Summer hours in Ohio 61 Some concerto movements 63 Cowpokes’ ropes 64 “I’m treating for this” 65 Bee-related 66 Cottontail’s coat 70 “The — the Hat” (Mike Myers film)

71 Neighbor of N. Dak. 72 Conger fishers 73 Supporting forces 74 The Tigers are part of it 80 Letter two before iota 81 Practitioner of total patient care 82 Offers one’s views 83 Once around the track 86 — Moines Register 87 “— for Outlaw” (Grafton mystery) 88 Lockheed P-3 Orion, e.g.

90 Harris and Wynn 91 Slushy drinks 94 — voce (quietly) 95 Libelous claims 103 “It’s — great” 104 Fix typos, e.g.

105 Old anti-communist org.

106 Water nymphs of Greek myth 108 Formal ban 111 What the ends of eight long answers in this puzzle are 117 More sullied 118 Milk-curdling stuff in a calf’s stomach 119 Be creative 120 Spire 121 Titleholders 122 Streisand of “Yentl”

4 Like some small batteries, for short 5 Chief Little Thief, e.g.

6 Pacific island republic 7 Singer Nixon 8 Depend on 9 “Very interesting” 10 Hugs, symbolically 11 Least sullied 12 Artificial 13 Tilt, as italics 14 Rural “uh-uh” 15 Taking after 16 Wine bottle 17 Funeral ring 18 — Gay 19 Clear up, as a windshield 24 Male delivery 28 Glimmer 30 “— deal!”

31 NBA team 32 1992 martial arts comedy 34 Blundered 35 Performed 36 Periods in history 37 Vision 39 Closes with 43 Hoods’ rods 44 Suffix with acetyl 45 Prickly seed husk 46 Arabic “son of” 47 Six-term Indiana senator Richard 48 Emit sparks 49 Center fielder Agee 50 Beautifies DOWN 53 Putin’s veto 1 1990s TV’s “seaQuest 54 Royal name in —” Norway 2 News agcy. since 55 In — (as placed) 1958 58 “A Bell for —” 3 Bodily pouch 59 Come about

60 “... and — a goodnight” 61 Bashed into 62 Sedative 66 Line winders 67 Jai — 68 Implores 69 Like very dry champagne 70 Holds tightly 72 Pope’s “— to Abelard” 73 Cain’s sibling 75 Part of R.I. 76 Crow 77 Spot-on 78 Tristan’s title 79 Brian of electronica 84 Pot starter 85 Low laborer 88 Stir-fry tidbit 89 Dined-upon decapod 90 It may be left to an heir 91 Critical hosp. setting 92 Four, to Julio 93 Shun 95 Gives a bottle to 96 Let enter 97 Cuba — (cocktail) 98 Tedious task 99 Actress Stevens 100 Hops-drying kilns 101 Tiny criticism 102 Polite title in India 107 Arp’s art 109 Tear apart 110 Hair goop 112 Motel’s kin 113 Certain dir.

114 “Marvy!”

115 Mailbox item: Abbr.

116 Vote to pass

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WEEKLY SUDOKU Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

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Drake canvasback recorded on this years CBC from Lake Junaluska.

The naturalist’s corner

Don Hendershot photo

BY DON H ENDERSHOT

Birders with mettle – medal would wince every time I checked the weather forecast early last week. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday all looked nice, temps in the high 50s, light to no winds, no precipitation – but then, Thursday night the bottom would fall out, temps would plunge, low 20s high teens, flurries and the wind 20 to 30 miles per hour, creating wind chills in the single digits by Friday morning.

And of course Friday was the date for our annual Balsam Christmas Bird Count (CBC).

I even thought once about trying to bump the count up to Thursday morning but logistics seemed unwieldy and we already had reservations at Bocelli’s for our after-count tally. Looked like we would just have to bundle up and go for it.

And that’s what 22 hardy souls did.

Conditions weren’t quite as bad as predicted but temperatures across the count circle ranged from around 19 degrees Fahrenheit to 28 degrees Fahrenheit and the winds were around 8 to 15 miles per hour. It was still cold and windy, not the best conditions for finding birds. We stood on the levee in gale

I

force winds and scanned the reservoir at the Waynesville watershed, watching the wind ripple the empty surface of the lake. We started to trudge back to the car and I lamented, “I don’t believe we’ve ever been skunked at the reservoir,” when two specs appeared — a pair of hooded mergansers.

Well it wasn’t much, but we weren’t skunked.

We went to areas where we would normally get dozens of sparrows and there was nothing moving. The only way we could get a sparrow was to go into the frosty brambles and kick around. If we were lucky a sparrow would flush or chip and skitter away on the ground in the dense vegetation. We only had four species of sparrows in our section — eastern towhee, dark-eyed junco, song sparrow and white-throated sparrow.

Despite the lack of sparrows, our species count was pretty good. We lucked out on raptors finding red-tails, red-shouldered, Cooper’s, sharp-shinned and American kestrel. We headed over to a cornfield along Plott Balsam Road, where I had found a large mixed flock of blackbirds the day before. No blackbirds; crows, lots of crows — we recorded a conservative 150 crows, but no blackbirds.

We decided to do lunch in town and

warmed up at Boojums. We looked over the list and had around 36 species — not a bad morning’s effort. After lunch, we headed back to the cornfield; four species of blackbirds would be a big boost to our list. We got lucky — the blackbirds were there and we checked off common grackle, rusty blackbird, red-winged blackbird and brown-headed cowbird. Then we headed up to Waterrock Knob where we eked out blackcapped chickadee and red-breasted nuthatch. We wound up with 46 species for our section — a good count.

We got to Bocelli’s and other groups had produced good totals, 51 at Lake Junaluska, 49 for the Maggie Valley section and 48 for the Lake Logan section. And the sections complimented each other — no one else had

blackbirds but we got four species. We had a poor sparrow day but Marilyn Westphal’s section had nine species of sparrows. We finished with 78 species for the circle, one better than the old record and the first time we’ve broken out of the 60s in a few years.

I would like to thank everyone who braved the frigid start, stuck it out and kept ticking off birds. Seventy-eight species is a good mountain CBC. I would also like to thank the Town of Waynesville for allowing us on the watershed and Jim Francis (who has some of the best sparrow fields in the county) and Stan Greenberg for allowing us on their property.

Don’t miss the fun — join us next year!

Don Hendershot is a writer and naturalist. He can be reached at ddihen1@bellsouth.net.

January 4-10, 2017 Smoky Mountain News 39

January 4-10, 2017 Smoky Mountain News

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