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Western North Carolina’s Source for Weekly News, Entertainment, Arts, and Outdoor Information

April 25-May 1, 2018 Vol. 19 Iss. 48

Governor, Haywood leaders meet on opioid crisis Page 8 Mission Health moves forward with for-profit buyout Page 12

CONTENTS On the Cover: With so many long-standing successful festivals in Western North Carolina that celebrate different aspects of Appalachian culture and tradition, The Smoky Mountain News checked in with a few of the event organizers to see what the challenges are when it comes to keeping the momentum going year after year. (Page 24) Held each spring in downtown Sylva, Greening Up the Mountains is the kickoff to the region festival season. JCTDA photo by Nick Breedlove

News Jackson will hire new director for consolidated DHS ..............................................3 Meet the Macon County commissioner candidates ................................................4 Law gives tribal chairman authority over chambers ..................................................6 Cherokee lands bill moves forward in Congress ......................................................7 Governor, Haywood leaders meet on opioid crisis ..................................................8 Belcher receives Long Leaf honor ................................................................................9 Sheriff candidate challenge appealed to state ........................................................11 Mission moves forward with for-profit buyout ..........................................................12 TWSA contemplates fee changes for 2018-19 ....................................................14

Outdoors Thru-hikers share their trail names’ origins ................................................................40

CORRECTION

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

In the April 18 issue of The Smoky Mountain News, a story about the Republican Primary Election race for Jackson County commissioner between Jarrett Crowe and Charles Elders contained an incorrect detail. Roughly 10 years ago, Crowe was a past vice chairman of his precinct, not of the entire county. SMN regrets the error.

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Jackson will hire new director to oversee consolidated department Board appointments, director job description to be approved May 7

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER fter January’s split vote to merge the social services and health departments into one consolidated department, the Jackson County commissioners are moving toward appointing a board and hiring a director to oversee the new department.

During an April 10 work session, Health Department Director Shelley Carraway and Social Services Director Jennifer Abshire presented their boards’ nominations to serve on the new, consolidated board, which will replace the existing health and social services boards. Meanwhile, commissioners discussed plans to hire a new position to oversee the consolidated department, with Carraway and Abshire likely remaining in place as directors of the health and social services divisions.

The new director would report to the county manager and draw a salary between $74,000 and $145,000, plus benefits.

THE ROAD TO CONSOLIDATION

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BOARD NOMINATIONS

Currently, the directors of the health and social services departments report directly to their boards, which have hiring and firing authority over the directors. Under the new configuration, the director of the consolidated department will report directly to the county manager, with the board of commissioners as the final authority — though state law says that any decision to hire or fire the director would be made with “the advice and consent of the consolidated human services board.” Until the new director is hired, Adams will operate as the point person for the consolidated department, with Abshire and Carraway reporting to him.

OPINION DIVIDED ON NEW POSITION As consolidation was discussed leading up to a final vote Jan. 29, commissioners gave no uniform answer as to whether a new position would be created to oversee the merged department or whether job responsibilities for the existing directors would be shuffled to accommodate the change. However, it now appears likely that the county will hire the director as an additional position.

According to Commissioner Ron Mau, a proponent of consolidation who is also running against Chairman Brian McMahan in November, state law sets the leadership structure. The county will benefit from the longterm strategy the additional administrator will make possible, he said.

“One of the big things I said all along about consolidation is this would provide the structure for more accountability and also the ability to improve services,” Mau said.

“This gives you the overall person that would have the direct line to the county manager.

Plus you have somebody who has a more global perspective of all the human services and health Under the new configuration, the services that are offered to the county, so you can get director of the consolidated more strategic in the future.”

Despite the significant department will report directly to the salary the new director will county manager, with the board of command, Mau maintains his position that consolidation commissioners as the final authority. will lead to long-term cost savings. Those savings could Throughout discussion of the proposal, come from combining responsibilities for the attorneys and IT people who currently serve the the departments’ directors and members of two departments and from thinking carefully their boards have said that physical relocation — the health and social services buildabout how to replace employees who leave.

“Maybe over time as people age out of the ings sit across town from each other — workforce you can get more strategic with should be a higher priority than organizareplacements — do they need to be replaced? tional consolidation. Those in favor of consolThings like that,” Mau said. “That goes back idation said they didn’t believe anything was broken in the current system but that reorto the more strategic, more global view.”

McMahan disagrees. Until the May 7 ganization would streamline the chain of meeting when the new structure is officially command and make logistics easier for familaunched, he said, he’ll be researching state lies using services from both departments.

Following the public hearing commissionlaw to determine whether the county is indeed obligated to hire a separate director’s ers voted to approve consolidation in a partyposition as part of the consolidation though line vote. Republican Commissioners Mau, Charles Elders, and Mickey Luker were in he conceeds it likely will be.

“A common thing I kept hearing from favor. McMahan and Commissioner Boyce some of the commissioners is this is going to Deitz, both Democrats, were opposed.

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Smoky Mountain News

Commissioners seemed satisfied with the names presented to fill the new consolidated board. Of the 17 board positions, current health board members were nominated for five of them and current social services board members were nominated for two. One position — which state law mandates must be filled by a psychiatrist — is vacant for lack of eligible candidates. A second vacant position will be filled by one of the county commissioners.

“I think this is a very good list,” said Chairman Brian McMahan. “I was very pleased to see the names. I have no concerns about anybody on here.”

Commissioners plan to officially create the board and approve its members during their May 7 meeting.

For the first three to six months, said County Manager Don Adams, the main task will be to educate the board about the services they’re charged to oversee. After that educational piece is done, Adams said, the board will pin down organizational items such as meeting policies. Currently, the social services board meets monthly and the health department board meets quarterly — the new board will likely need to meet monthly until the director’s position is hired, with the possibility of reduced meeting frequency afterward.

Unlike the existing health and social services boards, the consolidated board will be an advisory body, not a governing body.

Commissioner Boyce Deitz takes to a whiteboard to sketch out his opposition to consolidation following a Jan. 29 public hearing on the matter. Holly Kays photo

Consolidation became a topic of discussion soon after the 2016 elections, and in March 2017 commissioners held a meeting in which presenters from the University of North Carolina School of Government discussed the ins and outs of the 2012 state law that made consolidation possible.

UNC’s Jill Moore told commissioners that counties have consolidated for a variety of reasons — a desire to improve service delivery, save money or fix a strained relationship between commissioners and the departments — but cautioned them that consolidation doesn’t always save money and doesn’t necessarily make for seamless communication between departments, as legal restrictions remain in place as to what information can be shared with who.

During a Jan. 29 public hearing on the proposed consolidation, every one of the 11 people who spoke were opposed to consolidation.

The comments included concerns that the reorganization would make political influence in the dispensation of services easier to achieve, that the learning curve for board members tasked with learning the ins and outs of health and social services functions would be too great, and that since both boards and departments are already functioning well together there’s no need to change anything.

April 25-May 1, 2018

MEET APPROVAL

be more efficient, a cost savings,” he said.

“Well this is going to cost us more money, because in addition to the staff we already have we’re going to pay somebody a pretty good sum of money on a position that right now we don’t even have to have, we don’t need.”

He doesn’t buy Mau’s argument that the additional administrator will lead to cost savings down the road.

“I do not believe this position will generate any cost savings,” he said. “In essence it will cost more. That is a fairy tale to think that it’s going to save us money.”

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Meet the Macon County commissioner candidates

Jim Shearl (left) and Jim Tate.

Tate, Shearl to face off in May 8 primary he Smoky Mountain News and The Macon County News will jointly host a meet and greet and candidate forum from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, at the Macon County Public Library.

The public is invited to meet the candidates for Macon County commissioner candidates for District 1 — incumbent Jim Tate and challenger Jim Shearl. Both Republicans, the two candidates will face off in the May 8 Primary Election. Smoky Mountain News’ News Editor Jessi Stone and Macon County News Reporter Brittney Lofthouse will moderate the event asking their own questions plus questions submitted from the public.

Macon County commissioner candidates will have an opportunity to introduce themselves and explain why they are

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER arly voting in advance of the May 8 North Carolina Primary Election is underway.

No reason is needed to take advantage of early voting, and voters can still make selections by mail. Through Saturday, May 5, polling places will be open across The Smoky Mountain News coverage area, where voters will choose candidates according to party registration. Unaffiliated voters may choose a ballot from any party, and doing so will not change their unaffiliated status. Most voters won’t need to show identification, but those who are voting for the first time or using same-day registration may.

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HAYWOOD COUNTY Canton Public Library, 11 Pennsylvania Ave.; Clyde Municipal Building, 8437

JACKSON COUNTY Cashiers Recreation Center, 355 Frank Allen Rd.; Cullowhee Recreation Center, 88 Cullowhee Mountain Rd.; Jackson County Board of Elections, 876 Skyland Dr.; WCU, 245 Memorial Dr.; Wolftown Community Gym, 27 BIA Hwy. 422. Hours vary between locations, call 828.586.7538 for more info.

MACON COUNTY Highlands Civic Center, 600 N. Fourth St.; Macon County Board of Elections, 5 W. Main St. Hours vary between locations, call 828.349.2034 for more info.

SWAIN COUNTY Birdtown Recreation Center, 1212 Birdtown Rd.; Swain County Board of Elections, 1422 Hwy. 19 South. Both locations open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through April 28, closed April 29, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through May 4, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 5.

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

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running. Then, they will be given three minutes to answer each question. If time allows, audience members will be allowed to ask questions at the end.

Because this will be the first in a series of forums, and the first opportunity voters will have to meet several of the candidates who will appear on the November election, all candidates in the November election, for all offices, have been invited to attend the forum for the candidate meet and greet at 5:30 p.m.

With no formal agency or organization in Macon County, such as the League of Women Voters, existing in the county today, both news publications believe it to be imperative to host forums and public events for voters to have the opportunity to get to know candidates.

Early voting for the Tuesday, May 8 primary kicked off on Thursday, April 19, and runs through Saturday, May 5, giving voters the opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day.

Early voting continues through May 5

Carolina Blvd.; Haywood County Senior Resource Center, 81 Elmwood Way. All locations open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to noon on April 28, and 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 5.

*Paid for by the Committee to Elect Mark Melrose 4

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER lans are moving forward for an extensive renovation of the Jackson County Health Department building, with County Manager Don Adams hoping to have an architect contract ready for commissioners to approve at their May 7 meeting.

A recently completed study from McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture showed that the job will cost between $5.8 and $6 million, depending on how commissioners choose to phase construction, with additional costs for services such as architecture and engineering fees, surveying, upfitting of temporary office space and costs for furniture and equipment.

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Mickey Luker, Ron Mau and Charles Elders — which had been pushing to create a onestop permitting center so that builders needing various approvals from the health, planning and permitting and code enforcement departments would no longer have to shuttle between so many locations in order to get their paperwork in order. The revised plans cost the county about $10,000 in addition to the $19,000 it paid for the original study.

The revised plans are mostly the same where the first floor is concerned — except a two-story atrium is no longer in the plans — but the configuration on the second floor is much different.

The revised proposal includes office space for the planning department and the permitting and code enforcement department, both of which are currently housed in the Jackson County Administration Building. To fit those two departments into the building along with all the health department functions that must go there, the revised plan shows many environmental health and permitting and code enforcement employees working in cubicles rather than standalone offices. Instead, the new plans increase the number of conference rooms

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Question: What dairy-free items do you sell at Ingles?

Originally built in the 1960s, the Jackson County Health Department building is slated for renovation. File photo

I am trying to avoid eating dairy because it makes me feel bad.

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If your issues with dairy have come up suddenly I would recommend you see your family physician or an internal medicine physician to make sure if this isn't a symptom of other health issues. For example, is this actually irritable bowel syndrome(IBS) or could you have celiac disease?

These are both diseases that may present with an intolerance to lactose that is found in dairy.

Smoky Mountain News

from five to six so that cubicle employees who need to meet with someone from outside the department can find space to do so.

“We don’t have a lot of 10-people meetings,” said Permitting and Code Enforcement Director Tony Elders. “We have a lot of four-people meetings all day long. I think we wanted a lot of smaller conference spaces instead of one larger one.”

Leaders of the affected departments told commissioners they were satisfied with the plans and the process used to create them.

“We have all been very included,” said Health Department Director Shelley Carraway.

“It’s not perfect, but within the confines of that structure, that’s the best we can do,” added Tony Elders.

Commissioners may approve an architectural contract at their May 7 meeting.

Adams said the renovation project would likely go out to bid around Christmas or in January 2019, with construction starting that spring and lasting for about a year.

“I’m comfortable with what’s presented,” McMahan said. “It seems like it’s very thoroughly vetted.”

Answer: We sell lots of dairy-free options at Ingles from plant-based beverages to non-dairy "cheeses" in refrigerated dairy and in the produce section. We also sell non-dairy alternatives for yogurt, and frozen novelties (ice cream). Also, you may want to try lactose-free or reduced items to check to see if the problem is lactose (milk sugar). Narrowing down what product(s) cause you difficulty may be the first step .... For example, aged, hard cheeses(aged cheddar, Parmesan) typically have little or no lactose, can you eat these without difficulty?

April 25-May 1, 2018

“The big unknown for us is the temporary space,” said County Manager Don Adams during the April 10 work session when the updated costs and plans were presented. “We’re relatively close to the $7 million that we had budgeted in regards to this project as a whole.”

The plans presented April 10 were the second version of the renovation concept that commissioners have seen. The architecture firm’s original presentation to commissioners was in January 2017, when the board was still deciding whether to renovate the existing building or build new. At that time, results showed that renovation would cost $4.7 to $5.7 million and that a new building would cost $5.6 million, plus land.

Commissioners opted to move forward with renovation rather than pursuing new construction, but in September a majority of the board decided to have the architecture firm revise the concept so that the Permitting and Code Enforcement Department as well as the Planning Department could be housed in the renovated building.

That decision was driven by the board’s Republican majority — Commissioners

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Renovation plans progress for Jackson health department

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Law gives Council chairman authority over chambers

April 25-May 1, 2018

Chairman Adam Wachacha (left), of Snowbird, used a countdown clock to keep track of speaking time limits during an April 3 Budget Council session. The clock was gone by the April 5 Tribal Council session. EBCI image

Discussion spurs criticism about lack of public comment opportunity

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER he Cherokee Tribal Council voted unanimously to formalize rules governing who has final authority over procedures in the council house, but the ordinance elicited criticism from some who feel it doesn’t do enough to protect the rights of enrolled members to address their elected officials.

The ordinance, which Principal Chief Richard Sneed signed into law, adds new language to an existing law that defines the council house’s purpose as a community center and meeting place, also stating that the principal chief is responsible for its “use, security and maintenance.”

As amended during the April 5 Tribal Council meeting, the law now states that the Tribal Council chairman controls “the access to, use and security of council chambers and the lobby area in front of the council chambers” when Tribal Council is meeting.

However, the law states, the principal chief and vice chief “shall control access to, and the use and security of, the executive offices located within the council house.”

The new language further stipulates that 6 visitors to the council house behave “civilly

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and with respect.”

“Persons addressing Tribal Council or officials and employees within the council house, including within the executive offices, shall conduct themselves in a professional, courteous manner,” the legislation reads.

“Persons who fail or refuse to so conduct themselves may be asked to leave. Persons who do not leave when asked may be removed by law enforcement upon request of the tribal official in charge of the area where the offending behavior occurred.”

CONCERNS ABOUT CONTROL “I just want to make sure that this doesn’t keep people from coming to the podium and saying what they want,” Councilmember Lisa Taylor, of Painttown, said after the ordinance was presented. “If what they say makes someone mad around this table, are they going to get asked to leave?”

Chairman Adam Wachacha, of Snowbird, assured Taylor that’s not the aim of the legislation and that only wildly inappropriate behavior would result in removal.

“We’re not shutting the people out. We just want to make sure we have a procedure moving forward,” he said. “There were situations where the chair or the chief didn’t really understand who had the authority, the way it was written. It’s more black-and-white, so it’s harder to argue.”

The most visible instance of such a disagreement occurred last February, when the Tribal Council sitting at the time voted to begin impeachment proceedings against

then-Principal Chief Patrick Lambert.

When the resolution stating Council’s intention to draft articles of impeachment was read into the record, the audience responded with a resounding “boooo.” Then-Chairman Bill Taylor, of Wolfetown, reacted by directing Officer Fred Penick to clear the chambers, with Lambert giving opposite instructions — the people should stay, he said.

A brief power struggle ensued, with Taylor again directing Penick to clear the chambers, Lambert again telling him not to, and Penick finally stating, “I work for this man” — gesturing toward Lambert — and declining to clear the chambers. Taylor called upon a second police officer to clear them instead, but once again nobody moved. Finally, he called upon Legislative Counsel Carolyn West for an opinion, and when she read the section of Cherokee code that states, “The Principal Chief shall be charged with the responsibility for ensuring proper use, security and maintenance of the Council House,” the question was resolved. The people were allowed to stay.

Under the new legislation, that incident might have ended differently, as the section that West read in February has now been amended to state that the Tribal Council Chairman has final say over who is and is not permitted in the chambers during Council meetings.

THE FIVE-MINUTE RULE Tribal member Becky Walker expressed sharp criticism of the change during discussion before the vote.

“This doesn’t speak anything to our rights as enrolled members, what rights we have when we’re here,” she said. “That’s still never been clear.”

Walker in particular took issue with a new policy that Tribal Council has observed since Wachacha was elected to the chairmanship in October. Previously, if a tribal member had a comment to make on the agenda item at hand, that person would raise a hand, the chairman would add him or her to the list of people wishing to speak on the issue, and once at the podium the tribal member would speak until making the desired point.

However, in Wachacha’s reading of Cherokee code, each councilmember may speak for only five minutes on each topic, and tribal members may speak only if a councilmember agrees to give away a piece of their own allotted speaking time. This interpretation comes from Section 117-16 of the Cherokee code, which states that each councilmember is limited to five minutes of debate or discussion on each matter but that any councilmember can yield some or all of that time to another councilmember. Council can vote to suspend the time rule for a specific matter under consideration.

The ordinance does not specifically state that audience members are tied to the fiveminute rule as well. But it does say that in order to speak audience members must gain recognition from the chairman through a request of their council representative or by presenting a resolution or ordinance.

Wachacha interprets this law to mean that audience members wishing to speak must get one of the councilmembers to donate a portion of their five-minute block.

“It’s a timed agenda and we’re trying to address the issues of the day,” Wachacha said.

“For a work session I’ve never not accepted a hand raised out there and entitled everybody to five minutes per discussion.”

Walker said that’s an “arbitrary” system.

“If I get somebody’s attention and they give me time, that may be only 10 minutes or one minute or 30 seconds, however you arbitrarily decide to give us time,” she said.

During the Budget Council meeting that occurred April 3, two days before the Tribal Council meeting, a large digital countdown clock had appeared on the Tribal Council horseshoe between Wachacha and Vice Chairman David Wolfe, of Yellowtown, facing out toward the audience to show individual speakers how much time they had left.

However, when Tribal Council convened for its April 5 meeting, the clock had vanished.

The five-minute rule has been a source of contention since Wachacha first began enforcing it. During the February council meeting, Legislative Counsel Carolyn West was asked to explain the legal basis for the five-minute rule and how it fits with an ethics law that states that “tribal officials of the EBCI shall provide enrolled members a time to be heard in a formal setting.”

According to West, Tribal Council does not qualify as a “formal setting.”

“A formal setting can be the community club meeting. It can be a work session. It can be a lot of different things. Like the public hearing that was held on the alcohol issue. Council sessions are

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Cherokee lands bill moves forward in Congress news

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ollowing a 383-2 vote in the U.S. House of Representatives to pass legislation transferring the property to the tribe, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is one step closer to gaining ownership of 76 ancestrally important acres in Tennessee.

The land in question is located in Monroe County, Tennessee, and is home to the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, the Chota Memorial, the Tanasi Memorial and acreage supporting these properties and cultural programs. The property borders Tellico Lake, with much of it currently owned by the Tennessee Valley Authority. The tribe fought the TVA over creation of the lake, which inundated the sites of several ancient Cherokee towns — including Tanasi, for which Tennessee was named — as well as the gravesites of thousands of years of Cherokee ancestors.

The bill would allow the TVA to continue river control and development on trust lands and stipulates which structures could be built — with the TVA’s consent — on certain lands subject of flooding.

The TVA would have to be compensated for any lost hydropower capacity due to future construction. No gaming would be allowed.

The legislation was introduced to the House of Representatives on Jan. 3, 2017, and made its way through various committees before coming to the floor for a vote April 16. Of the 429 representatives, 383 voted in favor, two voted no and 44 did not vote. The two no votes were Republicans Rep. Robert Pittenger, of North Carolina’s ninth district, and Rep. Justin Amash, of Michigan’s third district.

The bill is sponsored by Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, R-Tennessee, with seven co-sponsors, including Rep. Mark Meadows, R-Asheville.

The day after the vote, the bill was referred to the Senate, where it was read twice and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

More information about the bill, including its full text and any updates on its progress, is available at www.congress.gov/bill/115thcongress/house-bill/146.

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IMPROVING THE PUBLIC COMMENT PROCESS

EXPERIENCE THAT COUNTS

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During the April meeting, Wachacha told Walker that he’s working on improving the process to allow tribal members more opportunity to speak. Going forward, Wachacha said, he wants to ensure that all legislation goes to committee before arriving in Tribal Council, with committees serving as the main avenue for public comment. Further, he said, he wants to move all requests for time — akin to a public comment section of other government bodies’ agendas, though requiring advanced planning and approval — to the Wednesday between each month’s Tuesday Budget Council meeting and Thursday Tribal Council meeting.

“My intention in moving forward is before stuff hits the floor it goes to committee,” Wachacha said. “That’s where the discussion can happen with the public.”

However, Walker pointed out, that shift hasn’t happened yet, so in the meantime Tribal Council should do its best to ensure that enrolled members retain an avenue for public comment. And the Wednesday public comment period won’t solve the issue, said

Walker — when will Tribal Council receive input on Budget Council items, which would be voted on the day before the Wednesday public comment period?

“We spend a lot of money on Budget Council days. People should have input into that,” said Walker. “We’re spending a lot of time trying to regulate what happens in here, but you’re not spending any time guaranteeing the people that they can take part in that.”

Principal Chief Richard Sneed jumped in to say that he shares Walker’s frustration that the current process includes no true opportunity for public comment.

“When we deem ordinances read and tabled, why do we do that? What’s the point?” he said. “The point is for public comment. And when do we do public comment?

The answer is we don’t. We don’t have a true public comment.”

That’s something that should be fixed, he said, but the legislation at hand — the ordinance outlining who has control of the council house — is a separate issue.

“This is not to try to silence anybody,” he said. “This is simply defining who has authority in this chamber when council is in session.

This particular ordinance was written in 1933, it hasn’t been amended since, and it doesn’t give any clarification as to who has authority when council is in session.”

Wolfe moved to pass the ordinance with a second from Councilmember Tom Wahnetah, of Yellowhill, and it passed unanimously.

Sneed has signed the legislation into law.

Sequoyah Birthplace Museum photo

April 25-May 1, 2018

council sessions,” she said.

A stricter reign on public comment is necessary, she said, so that Tribal Council can run efficiently and get through its agenda in a timely manner.

The Tanasi Memorial in Vonore, Tennessee, looks toward the site of the once-prominent Cherokee town, now underwater.

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Governor, Haywood leaders meet on opioid crisis

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER s the opioid crisis continues to rage across the nation and the state, legislators, law enforcement and medical professionals are placing a renewed focus on stopping the next generation of addicts from starting.

“One of the things we’ve done is start to control prescriptions of opioids, but we have to look at alternatives to pain management,” said North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, DRocky Mount, during a community roundtable held April 23 at the Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde. “There are other ways to attack pain other than simply prescription of opioids.”

Cooper was referring to the STOP Act, passed in North Carolina in 2017 and intended to foster better prescribing practices among physicians by limiting the amount of opioids that can be given on a patient’s initial visit.

“There is research going on, on drugs that are non-opioid that can make sure they attack pain, and we’ve got other drugs people can use other than opioids and various other alternatives to pain that doctors really need to look at and look at as a first entry with patients rather than just simply prescribing

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opioids,” Copper said. “We know that when people are prescribed opioids that their risk of becoming addicted increases.”

Cooper and other community leaders were told by Dr. Don Teater that even a oneday opioid prescription leads to a 6 percent chance that patient will still be on opioids a year later, and with an estimated 30 percent of Americans attempting to manage chronic pain, swarms of new prescription opioid addicts are created each day.

Prescription opioids are exactly what got Haywood County Resident David Dick in trouble in the first place, about 40 years ago.

“My left leg was nearly torn off. I was nearly killed,” Dick said of a workplace accident. “I spent three years in surgeries, tibial rods — it gets to be rather involved. It’s just the constant prescribing of opioids left me nothing else on my mind.”

Dick struggled with addiction for “probably 35 years” and has been clean for three, he told the group, but it hasn’t been easy.

“I know how tough it is out there. I know that once you get on opioids — I spent years wanting off of them,” he said. “The need for the drug gets ingrained so deeply in you that

S EE OPIOIDS, PAGE 9

April 25-May 1, 2018

“About 85 percent of people that come into our facility openly admit to being an addict of some kind, and 30 percent openly admit that they have a severe opioid problem.”

— Haywood County Sheriff Greg Christopher

Belcher receives Long Leaf honor

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER t’s been quite a week for Western Carolina University Chancellor Dr. David Belcher.

Belcher was presented with the prestigious University of North Carolina Association of Student Governments William C. Friday Lifetime Achievement Award at a dinner in Raleigh April 20.

Three days later, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper took advantage of a planned stop in Haywood County to present Belcher with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine — the state’s highest civilian honor.

Belcher, who arrived in Cullowhee in 2011 with his wife, Susan, quickly became a beloved figure at the school. Originally from Barnwell, South Carolina, Belcher spent over a decade at Missouri State University and almost a decade at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

During his 2012 inauguration speech Belcher outlined five goals — develop the Millennial Campus, create a faculty and staff leadership academy, organize for institutional leaders an annual summer tour of the 8 region, create a consortium of educators

I

Smoky Mountain News

Gov. Roy Cooper (center) addresses a community roundable in Haywood County April 24. Cory Vaillancourt photo

from Western North Carolina and prioritize fundraising for endowed scholarships.

Today, the new Health and Human Sciences building in the Millennial Campus is a testament to promises kept, as is WCU’s annual leadership academy, but perhaps the best promise is the promise of a bright future for recipients of more than 200 endowed scholarships created during Belcher’s tenure.

A cancer diagnosis two years ago began to curtail Belcher’s tireless efforts on behalf of WCU, but didn’t stop him and Susan from making a $1.23 million gift of their own to WCU last October.

Shortly after, Belcher took medical leave as the university appointed Provost Allison Morrison-Shetlar to the interim chancellor position and formed a search committee to identify Belcher’s eventual successor.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, according to the group’s website, is given “to persons for exemplary service to the State of North Carolina and their communities that is above and beyond the call of duty and which has made a significant impact and strengthened North Carolina.”

Notable North Carolinians who have, like

Judge Brad Letts (left to right) and Susan Belcher look on as WCU Chancellor Dr. David Belcher receives the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from Gov. Roy Cooper. Cory Vaillancourt photo Belcher, received the order include Billy Graham, Andy Griffith and Michael Jordan.

Recent local recipients include former Joey’s Pancake House owner Brenda O’Keefe

and Cherokee Tribal Councilwoman Tommye Saunooke. To date, 19,512 members of the Society of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine are listed on the website.

OPIOIDS, CONTINUED FROM 8 news

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you just don’t think of anything else when you have an opiate in your system.”

That all-consuming desire has led to a strain on law enforcement resources, especially in small counties like those in North Carolina west of Asheville.

“The opioid crisis has created an issue with in law enforcement as far as we’re always in a position of having to work drug-related crimes,” said Waynesville Police Chief Bill Hollingsed. “The opioid crisis has expanded that investigation into a whole new arena where a lot of individuals in the past that have not been affiliated with the drug trade enough found themselves as part of an addiction involving opioids.”

Hollingsed said that as a matter of economics, the opioid crisis is rapidly becoming a heroin and fentanyl crisis.

“We never had a heroin issue in this community until about two-and-a-half years ago,” he said. “It’s cheaper for an individual to acquire heroin than it is pills.”

Invariably, Haywood County Sheriff Greg Christopher also comes into contact with many who’ve run afoul of the law due to opioids.

“Our detention center averages about 107 people per day at this time, $73 a day for our taxpayers for each individual that spends the night there,” he said. “That’s about $3.3 million per year. About 85 percent of people that come into our facility openly admit to being an addict of some kind, and 30 percent openly admit that they have a severe opioid problem.”

Christopher said that it’s expensive to handle those kinds of problems within a county jail setting, but for addicts in recovery like Dick, it’s also expensive to handle them out on the streets.

“I pay for mine,” Dick said. “I don’t have any insurance. I literally work and half my income goes to Suboxone, but there’s a lot of people out there that probably don’t have the income that I have that they can just take that money needed for medication to get off the drugs.”

The lack of healthcare coverage was a pervasive topic throughout the roundtable; Cooper has been a strong proponent of the expansion of Medicare in North Carolina, which so far has gone nowhere.

Cooper is just one of three governors and one of six overall who sit on President Donald Trump’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis.

Last fall the group issued a report with a slew of recommendations, from enforcing the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, which prohibits health plans from limiting benefits for people with mental health or substance abuse disorders, to greater data sharing amongst state-based prescription monitoring programs.

The report also calls “a positive step” recent research conducted in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health into non-addictive painkillers.

“I feel that it’s progress,” Dick said. “I hear a lot of people wanting to do things. I’m just hoping that this can get done on the federal level, if the money’s there.”

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Sheriff candidate challenge appealed to state board

S

Swain Sheriff Curtis Cochran and his attorney David Sawyer (left) speak to the Swain County Board of Elections during a preliminary hearing held for Cochran’s candidate challenge filed

by Jerry Lowery (right).

Challenge,’” Lowery wrote in the appeal.

Lowery also stated that the board inappropriately placed the burden of proof on him instead of the candidate and also did not allow Lowery — who did not have an attorney to represent him at the public hearing — to present testimony and evidence that he thought was pertinent to the issue at hand.

After Sawyer claimed people with less than 90 days of active service don’t receive a DD-214, Lowery attempted to call fellow Swain County resident Gerry Laschober to

the stand to testify, but the board members said it was irrelevant to the case. Laschober is a military veteran with less than 90 days of active duty service due to an injury and wanted to present his DD-214 form to the board to show that he was honorably discharged and given a DD-214 form.

The appeal paperwork and the transcripts from the April 9 public hearing have been submitted to the state board of elections, but as of press time on Tuesday, the state board hadn’t set a hearing date for the appeal.

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April 25-May 1, 2018

DD-214 and those special circumstances are not available to the public. The national archives was able to release certain information about Cochran’s time in the military though — the dates he served, his duty status, assignments and place of separation.

His personnel file shows that he served from June 12, 1975 to Aug. 30, 1975 and his duty status states he was discharged. Under the category “Transcript of Court-Martial Trial,” the record states “Not In File.”

Cochran said he reported to basic training at Parris Island on June 27 but his young son at the time had a medical emergency and the base chaplain sent him home for the surgery on Aug. 30.

“Some time after this date — I don’t remember the exact date — I received a letter from the military stating that if I would sign a form releasing them from any VA or medical benefits, they would send me a discharge,” Cochran told The Smoky Mountain News. “I never thought anymore about the need to have a discharge paper, since by the military rules it should be an ELS (entry level separation) because I was there for less than 180 days.”

Lowery said he was disappointed with the public hearing process because the local board of elections didn’t put the burden of proof on Cochran and instead placed it on the complainant. The board members told Lowery the only issue in question was whether Cochran ever committed a felony.

After Cochran’s administrative assistant Janet Cochran testified that the background checks she performed on the sheriff showed that he’ never been convicted or charged with a felony in the U.S., the board dismissed the candidate challenge.

Lowery claims military charges wouldn’t show up in the databases she ran the check through and no evidence was shown by the candidate as to his military discharge record, which is the basis for the challenge.

“No evidence of the record pertaining to Curtis A. Cochran’s military discharge was ever submitted that supported the candidate’s requirement to prove under NC GA 163-127.5 that the candidate is not dishonorably discharged from the military and therefore is a felon as alleged in the ‘Candidate

news

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR wain County resident Jerry Lowery has appealed his candidate challenge against Sheriff Curtis Cochran to the N.C. Board of Elections after the county board dismissed the case earlier this month.

Lowery only had two days to process his appeal to the state board after the newly seated Swain County Board of Elections dismissed the challenge on April 9. The state board is now required by law to make a decision on the appeal based on the transcripts of the public hearing and the evidence presented at the April 9 hearing held in Swain County.

In his challenge, Lowery alleged Cochran was dishonorably discharged from the military in 1975 and as such is guilty of a felony under federal law, which would mean he is not eligible to run for sheriff in Swain County. According to North Carolina law, the burden of proof in a candidate challenge falls on the candidate who must show “by a preponderance of evidence” that he or she is qualified to run for election.

Lowery’s candidate challenge asked Cochran to present his DD-214 military release form in order to prove whether or not he was dishonorably discharged from the military. When the challenge was first filed at the end of February, Cochran and his attorney David Sawyer told the local board of elections that Cochran did not have a copy of his DD-214 but had requested it from the federal government and asked for it to be expedited.

When Cochran and Sawyer appeared at the public hearing April 9, Sawyer argued that Cochran was never issued a DD-214 form from the military because he had served less than 90 days of active duty.

While Sawyer argued that military personnel with fewer that 90 days of active duty aren’t issued the form, a representative from the National Personal Records Center in St. Louis, Missouri, said that wasn’t the case.

Julie Willi said that every service member with at least one day of active duty is normally issued a DD-214 form.

However, she said there were “certain reasons” why Cochran was not ever issued a

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Mission moves forward with for-profit buyout Plans for new Franklin hospital still in the works

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ission Health CEO Dr. Ron Paulus made a visit to Franklin last week to provide the community with more details about the nonprofit’s ongoing negotiations to join the Nashville, Tennessee-based for-profit system HCA Healthcare.

Every year, Mission Health’s board goes through a process of evaluating the system’s success and asking questions about what Mission’s future should look like.

“We ask should we be partnering with someone or keep going on our own. The answer has always been to keep up what we’re doing, but this year was different,” Paulus said. “Health care is going through a remarkable transformation.”

As a nonprofit system serving Western North Carolina, Paulus said Mission’s demographic is skewed from the national average when looking at the number of people who are under insured, uninsured or covered by Medicare and Medicaid.

The bottom line, Paulus said, is reimbursement rates on Medicare, Medicaid and private insurers don’t keep pace with Mission’s actual cost to provide services.

Even though Mission is still more efficient than many other comparable nonprofit health systems, Paulus said the loss is not sustainable.

“The average not-for-profit loses 11 cents on the dollar, we lose 4.5 cents on the dollar,” he said. “We have no impact on our revenue — the state and federal government and Blue Cross Blue Shield are paying below our cost — so we’re focusing on cost reduction. We’ve cut $260 million over the last

April 25-May 1, 2018

M

four years but it gets harder and harder to make those cuts.”

That’s why the board voted unanimously in January to explore potential partnerships.

While there were several possibilities examined and several interested parties, Paulus said the board narrowed it down to three and then the board chose HCA as its partner — though it was still uncertain what kind of partnership would develop.

THE BENEFITS HCA (Hospital Corporation of America), a for-profit network that includes 177 hospitals and 119 surgery centers in 20 states and the United Kingdom, has more than $42 billion in annual revenue. Compare that to Mission’s less than $2 billion a year, which has to be reinvested in the system.

“They (HCA) have the skills and the ability to bring resources we can’t,” Paulus said.

“Because of their size, they pay the lowest price than anyone else on supplies.”

While Paulus considers himself and the Mission team experts when it comes to clinical operations, he admits that HCA has expertise he doesn’t when it comes to the behind-the-scenes functions of running a health system, including billing, collections and purchasing. He said some of HCA’s partnerships only include contracts to operate a hospital’s back-office functions.

Also on the clinical side, Paulus said he is familiar with and impressed by HCA’s team of physicians in leadership. He said HCA’s cancer program is the leading clinical trial site in the country that is accepting the most patients and has produced 75 percent of cancer drugs that have been approved over the last 10 years. When the National Institute of Health wanted to do a study on how to reduce the number of infections associated with placing central IV lines, HCA offered to conduct the whole study.

The landmark results, which were published in the New England Journal of Medicine, led to a new standard of care for patients to

“We ask should we be partnering with someone or keep going on our own. The answer has always been to keep up what we’re doing, but this year was different. Health care is going through a remarkable transformation.”

— Dr. Ron Paulus, Mission Health CEO

reduce their chances of infection caused by central IV lines.

The financial benefits of having a forprofit health care model can’t be ignored. All of Mission’s facilities throughout the region are currently tax-exempt, meaning local governments don’t receive any property tax revenue from Mission. However, those properties would be assessed and taxed under HCA’s for-profit ownership. That additional tax revenue would mean a lot for small governments.

Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva is valued at $27.2 million and Duke LifePoint

Smoky Mountain News

Mission approved to build new Franklin hospital

12

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR With Mission Health in the process of building a replacement hospital in Franklin, Macon County and town of Franklin leaders were curious how the pending acquisition may impact the project.

Mission CEO Dr. Ron Paulus said HCA has agreed to continue all of Mission’s current capital projects, including the $45 million replacement of Angel Medical Center. Also, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services recently approved the Certificate of Need application for a new hospital, clearing the way to begin planning for construction at 1 Center Court, Franklin, at the intersection of U.S. 441 and Hunnicut Lane.

“We are so pleased to have successfully completed the regulatory phase and look forward to our project team moving forward with acquiring the selected site and preparing for construction of our new facility,” said Karen S. Gorby, president and chief nursing officer of AMC. “As we’ve said before, renovation of Angel Medical

Center’s current, outdated structure was simply financially irresponsible and the constrained location was not in the best interest of the community. Mission Health’s strategic investment for this new facility is a testament to our commitment to the health and well-being of Macon County residents and is sure to meet our County’s future health needs for decades to come.”

As part of the regulatory approval process, a CON was required and an official review of AMC’s application began on Nov. 1, 2017. A public hearing was held Dec. 19 and the CON was approved March 17 on a conditional basis.

The approval included a maximum capital expenditure of $45 million for the replacement hospital with no more than 30 acute beds, three shared operating rooms, and one gastrointestinal endoscopy procedure room. The new hospital will not include plans for a labor and delivery unit — a service Mission decided to discontinue at AMC last July.

The timetable provided plans for construction to begin in

pays $115,600 in taxes to Sylva and $100,600 to the county.

A NEW DIVISION When asked about how the acquisition may impact Mission employees, Paulus said it was fortunate that HCA decided to allow Mission Health to continue operating under the same name as its own division of HCA. Being its own division means that Mission will keep much of its leadership team along with its identity. It’s a plus for HCA because it expands their operation

F

February 2019 with a projected completion date of September 2021. The selected site will be more centrally located and easier to access for patients, visitors and staff and will also allow for potential future expansion.

“Mission Health is investing in communities throughout our 18-county region through our Mission Future Ready initiative, a more than half billion dollar investment in the future of healthcare in Western North Carolina,” said Paulus. “A new state-ofthe-art Angel Medical Center, which will be the single largest investment in the history of Macon County, represents another example of our relentless pursuit towards Mission’s bigger aim: to get each person to their desired outcome, first without harm, also without waste and always with an exceptional experience for every patient, family and team member.”

Paulus said the next hurdle would be to obtain a special-use permit from the town of Franklin before Mission can actually purchase the property and begin construction. The permitting process will be similar to what Ingles Markets had to go through to construct the new grocery store on Georgia Road since the specific use is not allowed under the current zoning.

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Paulus said the most exciting part of the pending purchase of Mission by HCA is the creation of a new health care foundation to support the needs of Western North Carolina.

If and when the sell is complete and Missionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debt is paid off, the funds HCA uses to purchase Mission will go into establishing a foundation. The exact amount is not known at this time but should be available when the purchase is complete. Just as a ballpark, Paulus estimated it could be $400 million, which could make a major difference in WNCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;HCA doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have anything to do with the foundation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a say on how itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s set up or how the money is used,â&#x20AC;?

Paulus said, adding that the communities decide how the money will be spent to improve health care for everyone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If the transaction closes, which we anticipate it will â&#x20AC;&#x201D; this foundation will be one of the 50 largest in the U.S. Thirty years from now people will look back and say this is the single most important thing thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happened to North Carolina.â&#x20AC;?

Mission and HCA are currently in the due diligence stage of negotiations, which could take 90 days. Then an agreement will be reached and submitted to the Attorney General for regulatory review before the transaction closes. For updates on the progress, visit www.missionhealthforward.org.

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into North Carolina for the first time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;HCA decided weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be our own division â&#x20AC;&#x201D; usually you have to be above $4 billion in revenues to be your own division but theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happy with how our system is run and there will be growth opportunities for them in the region and the state. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a platform to grow for them.â&#x20AC;?

With HCA coming in to improve the clerical side of the operations, Paulus does anticipate losing some of Missionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office staff, though he said itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too soon to know just how many. He said the good news is HCA employs 220,000 people and currently has 10,000 job openings listed for their back-office operations. HCA allows many of those clerical employees to work from home and process payments from other states. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So while itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true not everyone will be billing for Mission, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a series of opportunities to bill for California or Colorado or any of the other states HCA works in,â&#x20AC;? he said.

As for how much autonomy Mission will still have, Paulus said he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t anticipate his job to be much different than it is now.

While he currently gets his marching orders from Missionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board of directors, now his orders will come from HCA, especially on where Mission will order its equipment and supplies from now on. Paulus said he sees the change as positive for him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Speaking for myself, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m respectful of and appreciative of our back office but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not my area of expertise. So if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to manage that and they can get support from the corporation, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for me,â&#x20AC;? he said.

13

news

TWSA contemplates fee changes for 2018-19

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER uring a recent public comment period, water and sewer customers in Jackson County told the Tuckaseigee Water and Sewer Authority that they don’t want to see their rates go up to allow new customers to pay lower up-front fees.

Designed to take input on the analysis that TWSA will use to set new up-front fee rates in compliance with a 2017 state law, the public comment period drew two oral comments and four written comments given by a total of five people, as one person responded in both formats. Of the five people who gave feedback, four were against any increase in monthly rates to compensate for a decrease in impact fees, which will be known as system development fees after June 30.

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April 25-May 1, 2018

“No one I spoke to is in favor of having their rates go up just a little bit, considering gas is going up, your cable bill is going up,” Dillsboro Mayor Mike Fitzgerald, former TWSA chairman, said during the April 17 public hearing. “It’s all those little things. One by itself is not going to be a deal breaker.”

Fitzgerald also submitted written comments, arguing that the buy-in system has served TWSA well and been “very, very successful.”

“When I started my 35-plus years company, I financed it myself. I did not expect residents or businesses in my community to finance any part of it!” TWSA customer Valerie Harrison said via email. “TWSA has been working successfully for a long time with the system they have now! In my experience and opinion, it is not RIGHT or FAIR to increase costs on your customers’ bills to pay fees for a new business.”

TWSA customer John Jeleniewski, who also serves as Jackson County’s senior planner, concurred.

“The ‘adjustment’ to impact fees for new businesses or other large developments may be warranted,” he wrote. “However, any suggestion that existing residential customers subsidize an impact fee for a new restaurant, for example, is unacceptable.”

James Cochran, a Dillsboro resident who served on the TWSA board for 12 years, said that municipalities should take the lead on helping new businesses bear the burden of impact fees.

“If a municipality thinks businesses are important to them, perhaps they could assist the new business with the cost of impact fees,” he wrote. “I believe the Town of Dillsboro has an incentive program to help new business as suggested. As a current TWSA customer, who has in the past paid our impact fees, I would object to paying an additional fee to help a business in another

Dillsboro Mayor Mike Fitzgerald, TWSA’s former chairman, tells the TWSA board why he believes impact fees should stay. Holly Kays photo municipality start up.”

The only public comment in favor of shifting to a fee structure featuring lower upfront payments came from Sylva resident Eric Ridenour, who spoke April 17. He had previously addressed the board in February to share his unfavorable view of impact fees,

calling them “deal killers” that “hold hostage” the county’s economic development. If TWSA reduced that barrier to entry, he said, more customers would tap on and begin paying the monthly charge, ultimately increasing the organization’s financial standing. It’s not

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for other utilities within a 50-mile radius as well as the median rates for other Tier 1 counties, according to the analysis.

In a follow-up interview, Mau said the average rate increase could actually turn out to be less than what his initial analysis showed, as it didn’t account for the fact that some homes share a meter. That means that the number Mau used to represent the average residential water and sewer customer could be too high.

If system development fees were eliminated, the monthly water bill would increase by $2.66 and the sewer bill by $3.33 — an increase of 8.7 percent. The resulting rates would still be well below the median rates for other utilities within a 50-mile radius

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At the April 10 meeting, Board Member Ron Mau, who is also a Jackson County commissioner, presented the board with an analysis he’d done to show how much the average customer might see their bill increase if TWSA were to reduce or eliminate up-front fees. Mau holds a Ph.D. in finance and teaches business administration for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s online campus.

“We always have this discussion about the tradeoff between system improvement charges (paid monthly by TWSA customers) and what are now system development fees (paid up-front by new users),” Mau told the board. “I for my own information wanted to model that so I have something to look at as we go through this whole process.”

Mau’s analysis showed that if TWSA cut system development fees — formerly known as impact fees — in half, the average TWSA customer would see their monthly water bill rise by $1.33 and their sewer bill rise by $1.66 — an increase of 4.3 percent.

If system development fees were eliminated, the monthly water bill would increase by $2.66 and the sewer bill by $3.33 — an increase of 8.7 percent. The resulting rates would still be well below the median rates

“I might need to go back and reanalyze it,” he said.

TWSA board members thanked Mau for completing the analysis, with some expressing surprise that the average customer would see a relatively small increase even if impact fees were eliminated altogether.

Board Member David Nestler, a Sylva town commissioner, suggested that TWSA forgo its planned rate increase this year and instead use the opportunity to move away from up-front fees.

Not everybody agreed — other board members said that TWSA needs the rate increase to remain stable and that it’s unfair to charge customers who have already paid an impact fee more so that new customers don’t have to.

“There are some things about the analysis that we want to have some further analysis about, and we’ll bring that back to the table,” said TWSA Executive Director Dan Harbaugh.

For instance, Mau based his calculation of what TWSA needs to bring in from upfront fees on the average received over the last five years. But Harbaugh pointed out that the last five years have been a bit slower, economically speaking, so that figure might not accurately reflect TWSA’s revenue needs. Some board members took issue also with the fact that the analysis compared TWSA’s rates to utilities within a 50-mile radius rather than to other water and sewer authorities — nearby utilities are mostly run by municipalities. A water and sewer authority is a different setup with a different set of financial needs and responsibilities.

However, pointed out Mike Byers, a nonvoting board member who is Western Carolina University’s vice chancellor for administration and finance, practically speaking TWSA competes against other towns, not other water and sewer authorities located halfway across the state.

“If we’re going to compare ourselves to Franklin and Waynesville, then the 50-mile radius takes care of us,” Byers said.

TWSA’s next meeting will be a work session at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 8, followed by a business meeting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, both at the TWSA headquarters on 1246 West Main Street in Sylva.

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April 25-May 1, 2018

capitalize on the infrastructure you already have.”

Consultant Steven Martin of Ashevillebased WR-Martin, which is conducting the study on which the new up-front fees will be based, will take all the public comment and incorporate any relevant feedback to the final version of the study. The TWSA board will consider the study for adoption at its May meeting.

The study won’t mandate how much the up-front fees, to be renamed system development fees, should be. Rather it will state a maximum amount that TWSA can legally charge. The preliminary draft presented in February showed that ceiling to be significantly higher than the fees TWSA currently charges, so the board could choose to set its fees higher or lower.

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fair to make new customers pay for capital needs just because they’re the latest to arrive, he said — financing infrastructure should be everybody’s responsibility.

“I just recently replaced the shingles on my building,” he said. “I had to do that because stuff wears out and it gets old. I didn’t increase the fees on my tenant who’s the last one in because he’s the last one to come to the table. Likewise, I think the way to keep and improve TWSA funding is to

Dr. John Highsmith

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news

Living wage already in place in Waynesville

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER ctivists hoping to press the Town of Waynesville into adopting a living wage for full-time employees were recently told that the town was, in fact, already doing so.

Local advocacy group Down Home North Carolina issued a report showing persistent poverty among the working poor in Haywood County, especially for women and minorities. During the data collection phase of the report, 65 percent of respondents said raising wages would solve a litany of problems like housing cost burden and hunger.

A 2016 law prohibits municipalities in the State of North Carolina from setting a

To that end, almost 30 DHNC supporters turned up to a town board meeting April 10 to make their case for a so-called “living wage,” which they define as 210 percent of the poverty level. That breaks down to $12.30 per hour.

Only seven of the town’s 175 full-time employees don’t currently make at least $12.30 per hour — five maintenance workers, a customer service representative and a lifeguard.

All full-time town employees currently make at least $12.15 per hour, and will likely see wages rise slightly come July 1.

“It will be in my recommended budget,” said Waynesville Town Manager Rob Hites of the 3 percent merit increases he’s proposed that would push those seven employees to “I think the idea of a minimum wage at least $12.39 per hour.

“We gave a cost of livis a bygone concept.” ing increase in July 2016,” — Gavin Brown, Waynesville Mayor Hites said, referring to then-Interim Town Manager Mike Morgan’s minimum wage or from demanding of 2016 action. “Since then, there hasn’t been municipal contractors a minimum wage, but enough inflation to merit another COLA.” it doesn’t stop them from adopting policies But that $12.30 living wage figure drops regarding the pay rates for their own to $11 an hour when benefits are included, employees. and all full-time town employees receive “I think the idea of a minimum wage is a benefits, including a generous health care bygone concept,” said Waynesville Mayor package and retirement plans, meaning that Gavin Brown. all full-time town employees are and have

Downtown Waynesville. Margaret Hester photo

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

A

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been compensated well above DHNC’s requested minimums.

Aldermen took no action during the meeting in terms of creating or implementing an actual policy, and vowed to look into the wages of part-time employees in the

future.

Regionally, the Town of Canton became the first living wage-certified government in Haywood County in 2016, adopting the $11 figure for workers with benefits, and $12.50 for those without.

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER Canton’s Town Manager Jason Burrell is about to get some help.

“There were several tremendously strong candidates for this position from within the region and out,” said Burrell in a press release issued by the town April 16.

“However I am confident that Nick Scheuer is a wonderful fit for the town of Canton’s position of assistant manager.”

Burrell had served as Canton’s assistant town manager under then-manager Seth Hendler-Voss until his departure for a job in Virginia a year ago; when the town promoted Burrell to manager last April, his former position remained vacant, until now.

Scheuer comes to Canton from Wake Forest where he works as a transportation consultant within the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Division.

“We are incredibly excited to have Nick Scheuer as Canton’s new assistant town

State to take over Lake Junaluska system

The Town of Waynesville invites the public to the dedication of the Robert and Viola Forga Mini-Park at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 29, at the Hazelwood parking area.

The block between Brown Avenue and Riverbend will be closed temporarily for the ceremony, but the parking lot will remain open.

The Forga family provided an easement for

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an area for public use including public art, beautiful landscaping and a bench. Individuals are encouraged to attend to thank the Forga’s for their contributions to the Town of Waynesville and the village of Hazelwood.

REACH provides free bystander training REACH of Macon County is providing two free “Bar Bystander” Trainings as part of our prevention efforts during the month of April for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

A one-hour training in Jackson County will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. April 25, at Balsam Falls Brewery in Sylva on April 25 and the same training in Macon County from 6 to 7 p.m. April 26 at Root + Barrel Kitchen in Franklin.

For more information about the event, call 828.369.5544 (Macon office) or 828.586.8969 (Jackson office).

Jackson to host school safety forum Jackson County Public Schools will host a School Safety Forum at 7 p.m. Monday, April 30, at Southwestern Community College.

The forum will provide information to parents and community members about the Jackson County Public Schools Safety Plans.

Everyone is invited to attend this informational event.

For additional information, contact Cora Fields at cfields@jcpsmail.org or 828.586.2311 or Dr. Rebecca Ensley at rensley@jcpsmail.org or 828.339.4235.

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Waynesville mini-park dedication

Is a Will Enough?

April 25-May 1, 2018

Lake Junaluska Assembly received notice recently that the North Carolina Utilities Commission will in the near future be resuming regulation of Lake Junaluska Assembly’s provision of water and sewer service, including setting the rates for those services.

This change was anticipated and reverts Lake Junaluska back to commission regulation and rate-setting, which is where it was before 2011 when the North Carolina Utilities Commission exempted the lake from regulation and the rate setting role was assigned to the community council.

The 850 customers of the water and wastewater utilities will not see any changes in how they receive these services. The only change is that the provision of water and sewer service, and the rates, terms and conditions for that service, will be regulated by the North Carolina Utilities Commission. Jack Carlisle, as the director of Assembly Public Works, will manage this transition with the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

Diane E. Sherrill, Attorney news

Canton hires assistant town manager

manager. His experience in planning and zoning will couple nicely with Canton’s needs,” said Canton Alderwoman Kristina Smith. “This position is critical to Canton’s long-term success and sustainability.”

The appointment of Scheuer keeps things rolling in the Town of Canton in a variety of ways; his transportation background on both regional and local levels will be helpful, according to Burrell, as the town considers its pedestrian and bicycle plan. He also has experience in planning, zoning and grant management.

The appointment also frees up Burrell from some of the day-to-day operations of the town, allowing him to refocus efforts on economic development, a task he handled as assistant and continues to focus on amidst his other responsibilities.

“Once trained, having Mr. Scheuer take over several projects and some management of staff will give Manager Burrell the ability to spend more time and energy on several economic development projects,” Smith said. “From the Colonial to working with new potential businesses, there’s never a shortage of projects for economic development.”

Scheuer will be paid around $68,000 a year, and will also receive retirement contributions as well as medical, dental and vision care at no cost. His first day on the job will be April 30.

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• PRIZES FOR BEST HAT & BEST BOW TIE Proceeds to benefit Mountain Projects Sponsored by: Angie Franklin State Farm, The Dog House, Mountain Home Guardian and family, Smoky Mountain News, April Sutton – Realtor, Kenny Arrington Construction, Blue Mountain Chiropractic Center, Entegra Bank, Precision Auto, Benchmark Builders, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino

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Education Ogletree named Distinguished Professor Billy T. Ogletree, head of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Western Carolina University, has been named the university’s Catherine Brewer Smith Distinguished Professor of Communication Disorders.

A member of the WCU communication sciences and disorders faculty for 26 years, Ogletree is perfectly suited to meet the goals of the professorship, which include delivering high-quality educational programs to students in the field of communication sciences and disorders and helping meet the speech-language-pathology needs of the people of the Western North Billy T. Ogletree.

Carolina region, said Doug Keskula, dean of WCU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.

He has procured nearly $2.5 million in external support, including two U.S. Department of Education grants totaling about $2 million to improve services to people with severe disabilities. He currently chairs the National Joint Committee for the Communicative Needs of Persons with Severe Disabilities and, for the past three years, has been one of two committee representatives to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, an organization in which he also is a Fellow.

Search for HCC trustee appointee The Haywood County Board of Education is accepting applications from individuals who seek appointment to the Haywood Community College Board of Trustees.

The appointment is for a term of four years with a maximum of two consecutive terms. The board will seek to appoint individuals who can play an integral role in the vitality of the college through their knowledge and support of current educational programs and expanded opportunities for the college to serve the community.

Resumes may be hand delivered or mailed to the Haywood County Board of Education and should be addressed to Chuck Francis, Chairperson of the Haywood County Board of Education, 1230 North Main St., Waynesville, NC 28786. The application deadline is 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 1.

Learn more about Catamount School The Catamount School, a collaborative effort of Western Carolina University and Jackson County Public Schools, will hold a information session for parents as enrollment begins for the 2018-19 school year.

The session will take place at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, in Room 24 of the Catamount School,

located on the campus of Smoky Mountain High School in Sylva.

The innovative laboratory school for up to 75 students in sixth through eighth grades opened in August 2017. It is designed to help enrolled students transition into high school through implementation of a “whole school, whole community, whole child” approach. The school’s principal and its teachers are employees of WCU, while the public school system provides transportation and lunch for students.

828.227.7311.

Schools to bridge national divide Two visionary schools in geographically and politically diverse parts of the United States continue their journey to turn empathy into action via the powerful art of storytelling.

Ethical Culture Fieldston School (ECFS) in the Bronx, New York, and Swain County High School in North Carolina are joining forces for the second half of a Narrative 4 pilot project designed to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes. Two weeklong field exchanges underscore the yearlong project: the first was held in early October in New York City. The second is scheduled for Bryson City this week and includes a variety of immersive experiences highlighting the culture, history and community of the region.

The week includes a literary festival at 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 26, at the Swain County High

Smoky Mountain News

School Arts Center. The event is free and open to the public and features 10 literary greats, including N4 founding members and award-winning authors, Ron Rash and Colum McCann. The two will be joined onstage by a host of authors and musicians who take pride in highlighting Appalachia in their stunning bodies of work.

SCC, local libraries to offer job fair Southwestern Community College’s Career Services will partner with members of the Fontana Regional Library System to offer a Regional Job Fair Series to connect local employers with prospective employees in Jackson, Macon and Swain counties.

The series will run from Tuesday through Friday, May 15-18, and each event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The first job fair is scheduled for May 15 at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

Subsequent events are scheduled for May 16 at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva; May 17 at the Mariana Black Library in Bryson City and May 18 at Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library.

Employers interested in participating at any or all of the events in this series can contact Despeaux at 828.339.4212 or m_despeaux@southwesterncc.edu.

Macon students update Parrish Park Appalachian Ace Hardware recently partnered with Macon Middle School for a project to revitalize Parrish Park.

The Ronnie Parrish Memorial Park was established by the Macon Middle School PTO and community volunteers after Parrish passed away in 1995. He dedicated his life to educating children in Macon County, beginning his career in 1969 and teaching until right before he passed away.

Today, the park is one of the most used recreation facilities in the community, serving residents as a place for birthday parties, family reunions, picnics and more. Teachers at Macon Middle School also regularly use the park for outdoor classes and activities. The park includes picnic tables, originally donated to the project by the Lyndon B. Johnson Job Corps in 1996, and a covered pavilion.

With two decades of wear and tear on the park, Appalachian Ace Hardware plans to work with Macon Middle School to landscape the park and replace old plants no longer blooming around the pavilion. Addressing drainage issues around the pavilion as well as an overall cleanup of and refresher of the park is also on the agenda.

WCU wins TVA investment challenge The Tennessee Valley Authority announced that university students participating in the utility’s Investment Challenge Program delivered double-

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• Mountain View Intermediate School recently participated in the nationwide Bananagrams Challenge. Students strengthened their literacy skills through this interactive word game played using a bracket system with the winners moving forward into the next round of competition. The fifth-grade and school-wide Banagrams champion was Graham Caldwell and sixth grade champion was Elizabeth Brenner.

ALSO:

• The Macon County FFA Envirothon Teams competed March 23 at the Waynesville Research Farm and placed third, fourth and fifth in conference and fifth in the region. The FFA Poultry Team competed March 29 in Raleigh and placed second in Conference and fourth in the region.

• Western Carolina University recently hosted the Western Regional Science Fair in Cullowhee. This year’s theme was “Superhero Science” and students from thirty-six area schools submitted 140 projects for judging.

Out of those projects, 37 were invited to participate in the state-level competition held in March in Raleigh. digit returns, outpacing the S&P 500 in 2017.

TVA recognized more than 200 students from 25 universities, including Western Carolina University, in TVA’s seven-state service area for generating a 23.88 percent average return on investment. WCU was the top performing ICP teams in 2017 with 29.54 percent.

With more than $13 million in assets, TVA’s ICP is delivering results by growing into one of the nation’s largest and most successful studentmanaged investment programs. Student teams gain hands-on financial asset management experience that they could never get reading a textbook. They actively manage stock portfolios for TVA, design long-term investment strategies and select investments under the guidance of faculty members and within investment guidelines established and monitored by TVA. For more information about the ICP, visit www.tvainvestmentchallenge.com.

Wright receives UNC teaching honor Western Carolina University’s Laura Wright, a member of WCU’s English Department faculty since 2005 and a resident of Candler, was recently named one of the top teachers in the University of North Carolina System. She is among 17 recipients of the 2018 UNC Board of Governors Awards for Excellence in Teaching.

The Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching will be presented to Wright during WCU’s undergraduate commencement that begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 12. She will be the primary speaker for that ceremony, which includes graduating students from the English Department and College of Arts and Sciences.

20

Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

As Nicaragua smolders, our lives go on W

Too many take the low road To the Editor: In this week that we celebrate Earth Day, I’d like to make a few observations.

In her book on the Tea Party, Strangers in Their Own Land, Arlie Russell Hochschild compares what she calls “the high road” to prosperity, versus “the low road.” Politicians of both parties are choosing to sell one or the other agenda to different states or regions of the country.

The high road can be seen in places like Washington state, where investments are made in the quality of life, good schools, updated infrastructure (including high-speed internet), clean air, pristine water and copious opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The low road is a strategy that does just the opposite. It is based on cutting spending on all the assets mentioned above.

In the short run the low road can reap some impressive results, like bringing in mining and drilling (and now fracking) operations, and the highly polluting plants that follow. But in the long road the results are miserable.

The land is left spoiled. Traditional occupations like farming are drastically reduced. The money is boom and bust. The businesses that swoop in like vultures won’t even ask their

father-in-law, who had what was approximately a 20-year relationship with a hospital and doctors-in-training in Leon.

Through that program — Project Health for Leon (look it up online if you want to donate to a worthy charity) — my wife Lori and her dad became close friends with many Nicaraguan families. When the doctors would come to Raleigh to learn surgical techniques, they would often come to the mountains and our home for a visit.

Lori traveled to Nicaragua for about 15 years straight with her dad, helping out in the hospital as needed and visiting schools and orphanages. She was Editor also the de facto guide for the medical team and their families when they weren’t working and wanted to visit beaches, mountains, volcanoes, coffee plantations and generally just get a taste of this endearing country.

Nicaragua is poor. Most years it ranks as the second-poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, with only Haiti being in worse shape. It was devastated by the U.S.-led war against the Sandinistas in 1980s and many corrupt leaders since.

Ortega — whose wife is vice president — has been accused of fixing elections and installing puppet leaders in cities across the country, taking over the judiciary and doing away with term limits. He is, in essence, a dictator looting the country of what little it has.

The demonstrations against the government kicked off on

Scott McLeod

e Americans are spoiled. Too often we take our way of life for granted, both the freedoms we have and the institutions that keep our democracy intact. Our republic is strong, but its survival is not a given.

People who have traveled know that the biggest hearts beat in those who have the least. That’s a truth you’ll find throughout the world. In places where people struggle to find the dayto-day basics needed to stay alive, where scarcity is a way of life, you find friendliness and generosity in abundance.

I started thinking about this dichotomy after my son, Liam, called from UNC Charlotte Saturday to ask what was happening in Nicaragua, and we told him we didn’t have the full story. Gustavo — now a college student, I think — had stayed with us for about seven months back in about 2009, and Liam had seen his Instagram post about student protests being met with violence from police supporting President Daniel Ortega and the Sandinista government.

Like many news events these days, social media was on it before it became a mainstream story. Gustavo, from Leon, Nicaragua, was 13 or 14 when he spent time as an informal exchange student with us, and he was followed by his younger sister, Fernanda, and a cousin, Anna Raquel. Anna was the last, and that was eight years ago when our middle daughter Hannah was a sophomore in high school.

These young adults still follow each other on social media platforms. We were able to travel to Nicaragua twice since that first visit from Gustavo, and our oldest Megan spent a summer in Leon attending school.

My family’s connection with Nicaragua started via my

executives to live in the affected states, so most of the high salaries (touted so eagerly by the politicians) end up flowing to other states (high road states), or even foreign countries.

Looking at the voting records of our representative in Washington, D.C., and Raleigh, and at many of our local county commissions and city governments, we can see that the low road is being pushed upon us. All is not lost, however, as there is strong recognition that Western North Carolina is not the place for it.

In the long run, our greater prosperity is linked to keeping WNC on the high road to the future.

Boyd Holliday Lake Junaluska

NAACP supports keeping schools safe To the Editor: The Haywood County NAACP supports gun safety and freedom. Today, fear and terror exist in our children’s classrooms. The NAACP advocates for laws that will protect and save children and teachers from gun violence and allow them the freedom to learn in a safe environment.

We support: n Passing a law to ban the sale of assault weapons like the ones used in Las Vegas, Orlando, Aurora, Sandy Hook and Marjory

April 16 over what has been called negligence in handling forest fires in the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve. Then last week Ortega issued a decree telling public employees they would get more taken out of their paychecks to bolster the retirement system, and in turn retirees would receive less in their monthly pension.

That started the violent protests, and even though Ortega has rescinded the decree, emotions are still simmering after protests that left many dead. The decree, it seems, was a catalyst, but the dissatisfaction with the government runs much deeper.

That’s what made the video that was sent from a friend in Nicaragua so powerful (to view it go to the opinion section of our website and find this column). It describes the unrest — in English — and then finishes by saying that the world needs to know what’s going on in this country. I encourage you to watch the video or learn about what’s going on in Nicaragua from some other news source.

Tomorrow I’ll wake up, drink coffee, perhaps go for a run or read for a while before coming to the office to put in a day’s work. No fears. My friends in Nicaragua will be wondering if they should take a chance and attend a protest, wonder if their careers are in peril, if their neighbors and friends may get caught up in this fight against a dictator who won’t show mercy. People have died in those protests.

It reminds me to take nothing for granted, and to appreciate our political situation for what it is — rough-and-tumble, increasingly nasty, but still controlled by a rule of law and tradition. That’s not the case for too many people in other parts of the world.

(Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com)

Stoneman Douglas High School. These are weapons of war, which should be restricted to the military and law enforcement. n Prohibiting the sale of high-capacity magazines. Limiting the number of bullets a gun can discharge at one time will at least force a shooter to reload and give children a chance to escape. n Closing the background check law loophole that allows dangerous people to buy guns online or at flea markets. A background check should be required on every gun sale — with no exception.

It is time to insist that politicians and the NRA act in the best interests of public safety by supporting sane and sensible gun safety laws. It is time that parents are free from the ever-present fear of a shooting at their child’s school. It is time that children and teachers are free to learn without fear.

Chuck Dickson President, Haywood NAACP

Despite worries, no recession in sight To the Editor: I happened to come across a column written by Martin Dyckman in an old edition of the SMN in which he made some rather strong comments against the soon-to-bepassed tax reform legislation. In that column

Mr. Dyckman wrote the following: “There are only two classes of guaranteed winners (with the tax bill)… the wealthiest of all Americans, and large corporations.”

I wonder if he might now have a different opinion of the tax legislation? As of this date, hundreds of different companies — large and small — have given their lowest paid employees bonuses, salary increases, larger retirement contributions, utility reductions and have even increased jobs. Stories continue to be shared from across the country of the powerful and positive impact that the tax reform bill has had on hundreds of thousands of Americans and their families.

It is amazing to me how otherwise intelligent individuals on the far left continue to be so irrationally influenced by their hatred of Donald Trump — in addition to their everincreasing lack of touch with everyday Americans. Other examples of this, of course, include Nancy Pelosi’s “crumbs” comment, and someone who Mr. Dyckman quoted in his column, Paul Krugman, who famously forecast a global recession “with no end in sight” under President Trump. Maybe what Krugman actually meant to say was “no recession in sight.”

But then again they say that liberalism is a disease. So I guess it’s not so surprising after all.

Tom Smith, Davie, Florida

Susanna Barbee

C

@SmokyMtnNews

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207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde

828-456-1997 blueroostersoutherngrill.com Monday-Friday Open at 11am

Real Local Families, Real Local Farms, Real Local Food

LUNCH DAILY 11:30 A.M.-2:30 P.M. DINNER NIGHTLY AT 5 P.M. TUESDAY-SATURDAY Voted Best Steak in Waynesville

Wine Down Wednesday's 1/2 off bottle of wine

Classic local American comfort foods, craft beers, along with small batch bourbons & whiskey.

Vegetarian options available

Smoky Mountain News

of the world was sleeping.

I was a little nervous about doing this.

As a woman, I was a bit leery of running by myself along a deserted country road at 1 a.m. But once I started, a sense of peace ensued. I turned off my earbuds and enjoyed the crickets and other night sounds. The clear sky was alight with stars and a stunning crescent moon. Aside from a sense of calm within, my teammates met me at certain points along the route to make sure I was OK and on track.

I’ve never run in the middle of the night and I’m sure it’s not something I’ll do often, but it’s an experience I’ll remember forever and one that left an impact.

The quiet. The solitude. Just the sound of my feet, my breath and nature. It was awesome.

When my friend first asked me to do the Smoky Mountain Relay, I was skeptical.

When you describe it to someone, it doesn’t sound like much fun at all, but I could see the light in his eyes when he talked about it and the impression it had on him. I wanted to feel that too.

Besides the feeling of accomplishment for completing the athletic component of the relay, there was a social element that’s even harder to describe adequately.

Other than my friend, I’d never met anyone else in our van or the other van. Yet, by the end of the race, we were all hugging, having beers and chatting about our kids. A sense of comradery and shared accomplishment resulted from completing such an arduous task together.

My team of five, especially, became very close. If we weren’t running, we were in the van talking, laughing and telling stories.

We had little to no cell service and didn’t listen to music. It was true human connection.

Everyone along the course, whether other teams or local WNC folks working as volunteers, was smiling and happy.

Approximately 470 individuals participated this past weekend. It was refreshing to see so many healthy, active people running and a slew of others donating their time to execute the race efficiently.

During an era when America feels disjointed and frustrated, this race inspired me and re-affirmed my belief that good still exists in our world. Sometimes you’ve got to get away and shut out the noise to remember it’s the simple joys in life that bring true fulfillment.

(Susanna Barbee is digital media specialist for Mountain South Media, a columnist for Smoky Mountain News and a contributing editor for Smoky Mountain Living. susanna@mtnsouthmedia.com)

Deliicious cious dinners. Casual lunc ches and breakfasts. breakfasts.

A nd And d,, all ar around ound yyou, ou,, a feas st for the eyes that onlyy nature could create.

We like to think of it as a litttle taste of heaven.

Cal l (828) 926 -1401.

April 25-May 1, 2018

ertain memories or events in life stand out as paramount, like a utopian experience that seems more like a movie than reality. This past weekend was one of those for me. Over 24 hours spent running in the backwoods of Western North Carolina bolstered my faith in humanity.

The Smoky Mountain Relay is a 201.7mile relay run where a team of men and women pass off a slap bracelet as they sweat their way up mountains, along trails, down busy highways and through beautiful countryside. When Columnist not running, the rest of the team drives a van to the next exchange point and preps a runner for the next leg of the relay.

There’s a lot of running, a lot of socializing, very little sleep and meals comprised of nuts, granola bars and fruit.

When a friend told me about the race last fall and encouraged me to participate, I thought he was crazy. I’m a girl who loves her sleep and the thought of running and driving around in a van for over 24 hours with basically zero shut-eye sounded exhausting, yet also slightly intriguing.

Ultimately, when it was time to register, I said, “Sure, why not?”

Life has taught me that if I don’t embrace adventures when they fall in my lap, they may never visit again. This relay certainly sounded like an adventure.

The relay teams typically involve 12 people, two groups of six who take turns running six legs of the race. While one van of six is running, the other van is resting, fueling and preparing. Our team had 11 runners with five in our van and six in the other, so several folks in our van had to run extra legs of the race.

I ran three legs, which were 2.4, 3.3 and 4.2 miles. Some of my teammates had more legs and/or much longer legs. With my triathlon training going on right now, I haven’t been solely training on running so I requested the shorter legs of the relay. And I’m thankful I did. I was insanely impressed as I watched some of my van-mates run 7 miles straight up a mountain or 11 miles through the woods.

Of the three legs, my favorite was running 4.2 miles in the middle of the night.

Remember, this race didn’t quit. It started and continued for over 30 hours straight until every team finished, so at one point or another, we were all running when the rest

We’l e ll feed your spir rit, too. opinion

Finding inspiration in the backwoods of WNC

Closed Sunday & Monday 454 Hazelwood Ave • Waynesville Call 828.452.9191 for reservations 21

tasteTHEmountains

Sunday: 12pm-6pm Tue-Thurs 3pm-8pm Fri-Sat: 12pm-9pm Monday: Closed AT BEARWATERS BREWING

101 PARK ST. CANTON 828.492.1422

PIGEONRIVERGRILLE.COM

Retail Restaurant LIVE Music

Events begin at 7:15pm unless otherwise noted. Dinner and Music reservations at 828-452-6000.

FRIDAY, APRIL 27 CD Release Party: Ben Wilson guitar, vocals.

Neo-folk, Alternative, Originals.

SATURDAY, APRIL 28 Joe Cruz piano, vocals. Beatles, Elton John, James Taylor + More.

April 25-May 1, 2018

FRIDAY, MAY 4 Tina and Her Pony ukulele, banjo, cello, vocals. Americana, Folk, Pop, Originals.

SATURDAY, MAY 5 Joe Cruz piano, vocals. Beatles, Elton John, James Taylor + More.

FRIDAY, MAY 11 James Hammel guitar, vocals.

Jazz, Pop, Originals.

FRIDAY, MAY 12 Jacob Johnson guitar, vocals.

Neo Acoustic Folk-Funk. Music fee is $10 per person, plus dinner and drinks.

Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Carry out available. Located in downtown Waynesville, Bogart’s has been long-time noted for great steaks, soups, and salads. Casual family atmosphere in a rustic old-time setting with a menu noted for its practical value. Live Bluegrass/String Band music every Thursday. Walking distance of Waynesville’s unique shops and seasonal festival activities and within one mile of Waynesville Country Club.

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.

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE 454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch daily 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; dinner nightly at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. Wine Down Wednesday’s: ½ off wine by the bottle. We specialize in handcut, 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.

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

BOGART’S 303 S. Main St., Waynesville. 828.452.1313.

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through

CATALOOCHEE RANCH 119 Ranch Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1401. Family-style breakfast seven days a week, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. – with eggs, bacon, sausage, grits, oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-you-can-eat. Lunch menu every day from 12 noon to 2 .p.m includes daily specials, homemade soup du jour and fresh-made salads. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night will feature an evening cookout on the terrace, with choices such as steak, ribs, chicken or trout. On all other

MAGGIE VALLEY RESTAURANT Daily Specials: Soups, Sandwiches & Southern Dishes

Featured Dishes: Fresh Fried Chicken, Rainbow Trout, Country Ham, Pork-chops & more

Breakfast : Omelets, Pancakes, Biscuits & Gravy!

FRIDAY, MAY 18 Bob Zullo guitar, vocals. Jazz, Rock, Pop.

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

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

SATURDAY, MAY 19 Joe Cruz piano, vocals. Beatles, Elton John, James Taylor + More.

Closed Tues.

Sun. 12-9 p.m.

828-452-6000 • classicwineseller.com 20 Church Street, Waynesville, NC

Smoky Mountain News

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

WAYNESVILLE’S BEST BURGERS

New Hours: Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Breakfast served all day!

2804 SOCO RD. • MAGGIE VALLEY 828.926.0425 • Facebook.com/carversmvr Instagram- @carvers_mvr

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

Open Mon.-Sat. 11:30-9 Sun. 10-9 Sunday Brunch 10-2

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

34 CHURCH ST. WAYNESVILLE 828.246.6505 22

twitter.com/ChurchStDepot

facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot

828.454.5400 | 128 N. Main | Downtown Waynesville | FireflyTapsAndGrill.com

nights of the week, the chef will prepare dinner with locally sourced vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer a fine selection of wine and craft beer.

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

And see our dinner menu online at www.cataloocheeranch.com/dining 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

tasteTHEmountains 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.

Open for dinner at 4:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. 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.

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 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.

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

828.586.3555. Open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Handtossed pizza, steak sandwiches, wraps, salads and desserts. All made from scratch.

Beer and wine. Free movies Thursday trought Saturday. Visit madbatterfoodfilm.com for this week’s shows.

DELLWOOD FARMHOUSE RESTAURANT 651 Dellwood Rd., Waynesville.

828.944.0010. Warm, inviting restaurant serving delicious, freshly-made Southern comfort foods. Cozy atmosphere; spacious to accommodate large parties. Big Farmhouse Breakfast and other morning menu items served 8 a.m. to noon. Lunch/dinner menu offered 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Come see us.

You’ll be glad you did! Closed Wednesdays.

FERRARA PIZZA & PASTA 243 Paragon Parkway, Clyde.

828.476.5058. Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 12 to 8 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.

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

The Freestylers Friday, April 27 • 7 p.m.

3 E JACKSON ST. • SYLVA, NC

www.CityLightsCafe.com

PIGEON RIVER GRILLE 101 Park St., Canton.

828.492.1422. Open Tuesday through Thursday 3 to 8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday noon to 9 p.m.; Sunday noon to 6 p.m. Southerninspired restaurant serving simply prepared, fresh food sourced from top purveyors.

Located riverside at Bearwaters Brewing, enjoy daily specials, sandwiches, wings, fish and chips, flatbreads, soups, salads, and more. Be sure to save room for a slice of the delicious house made cake. Relaxing inside/outside dining and spacious gathering areas for large groups.

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.

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.

TRAILHEAD CAFE & BAKERY 18 N Main Street, Waynesville.

828.452.3881 Open 7 days a week. You will find a delicious selection of pastries & donuts, breakfast & lunch along with a fresh coffee & barista selection. Happy Trails!

VITO’S PIZZA 607 Highlands Rd., Franklin.

828.369.9890. Established here in in 1998. Come to Franklin and enjoy our laid back place, a place you can sit back, relax and enjoy our 62” HDTV. Our Pizza dough, sauce, meatballs, and sausage are all made from scratch by Vito. The recipes have been in the family for 50 years (don’t ask for the recipes cuz’ you won’t get it!)

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.

1196 N. Main St. Waynesville NC 828.452.5187 Kaninis.com Serving lunch Monday-Saturday 10:30-2:30

reSTauranT

Homemade daily SpecialS monday - chicken pot pie Tuesday - meatloaf Thursday - chicken & dumplings Friday - Fried Fish us delicio at s e h dis meal! every

Breakfast Served daily 8am-12pm (Sat. 7am-12pm) lunch & dinner Served daily 11am-8pm cloSed WedneSday 2651 dellwood rd.

Waynesville 828.944.0010 now Hiring experienced cooks!

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!

243 Paragon Parkway | Clyde Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Open Sundays Noon to 8 p.m.

828-476-5058 NEW LOCATION OPEN!

Smoky Mountain News

LIVE MUSIC FEATURING:

MAGGIE VALLEY RESTAURANT 2804 Soco Road, Maggie Valley.

828.926.0425. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Daily specials including soups, sandwiches and southern dishes along with featured dishes such as fresh fried chicken, rainbow trout, country ham, pork chops and more. Breakfast all day including omelets, pancakes, biscuits & gravy. facebook.com/carversmvr; instagram @carvers_mvr.

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.

FarmHouSe

April 25-May 1, 2018

HARMON’S DEN BISTRO 250 Pigeon St., Waynesville 828.456.6322. Harmon’s Den is located in the Fangmeyer Theater at HART. Open 5:309 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday (Bistro closes at 7:30 p.m. on nights when there is a show in the Fangmeyer Theater) with Sunday brunch at 11 a.m. that includes breakfast and lunch items. Harmon’s Den offers a complete menu with cocktails, wine list, and area beers on tap. Enjoy casual dining with the guarantee of making it to the performance in time, then rub shoulders with the cast afterward with post-show food and beverage service. Reservations recommended. www.harmonsden.harttheatre.org

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.

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

dellwood

Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m • Closed Sundays

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23

A&E

Smoky Mountain News

24

Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival.

FATE OF THE FEST A closer look at festivals in Western North Carolina

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER he proud communities that make up Western North Carolina were once mountain towns that played host to several successful blue-collar industries. We’re talking about logging, furniture, paper products, auto parts, beverages, textiles, and so on. The country needed things, and needed them fast, and folks here made those products with their bare hands.

These companies found a crucial, much-needed balance alongside the serene beauty and endless natural resources of our forests, rivers and wildlife.

But, with the passing of time, most of these industries either left the county, the state, and the country, or disappeared altogether.

Like a deafening vacuum, jobs started flowing out of our mountain towns beginning in the late 1980s, with the tourism industry becoming even more important.

As part of that transition, several organizations popped up with one idea in mind — let’s throw a party.

Either a nonprofit or run by the towns themselves, festivals of various sorts became popular in communities across the mountains. In many cases, they started as a way to get people back to main streets, but they were also a new and vital avenue by which the culture and heritage of Western North Carolina and Southern Appalachia would forever be preserved and perpetuated into the digital age of the 21st century.

Thus, after seeing a handful of beloved, longtime events disappear recently — “not returning in 2018, fingers

T

crossed for 2019,” or so these organizations posted on social media — I wondered if a similar fate was to fall upon others, a domino effect perhaps.

These festivals have long been (and remain) a shining light in their communities, a time to gather and celebrate.

But, what about the future of these annual events? Especially when many of these mountain towns have reinvented how they do business and how they attract the next wave of resi-

“Festivals are an important way to bring a lot of folks to our town for a day, or for a weekend, with the hope that they’ll want to come back and spend more time here.”

— George James, Taste of Scotland & Celtic Festival chairman

dents, tourists and the curious alike — craft beer, outdoor recreation, family-friendly, connectivity to nearby metropolitan areas, millennial attentive — off of the interstate, out of their cars, and onto main street and nearby shopping areas.

Sylva’s Greening Up the Mountains kicks off the regional festival season. As it approaches this weekend, we talked to the organizers of some of the most popular mountain festivals to hear what kinds of challenges they are facing in keeping momentum going for these unique events.

GREENING UP THE MOUNTAINS • When: Saturday, April 28 • Where: Downtown Sylva • Years active: 21 • Attendance: 12,000 • Put on by: Town of Sylva • Website: www.greeningupthemountains.com • Interviewee: Kendra Hamm, GUTM event coordinator • Purpose: It began as a community Earth Day Festival and has evolved over the years, alternating themes between a heritage arts festival, to a focus on health and wellness, to what I consider to be a celebration of both contemporary and traditional Appalachian arts.

• Challenges: The festival isn’t facing any particular “challenges,” outside of the expected logistics of space and parking. We’ve met the parking challenge by teaming up with Jackson County Public Transit to provide shuttle service between the Jackson County Justice Center and the festival.

• Staying relevant: With the opening of many resale shops in downtown Sylva, a entirely new demographic of visitors have been coming into the area. Featuring artisans and crafters utilizing recycled/repurposed items in their booths brings those same visitors into the festival scene as well. The addition of the beverage arts attracts those who are interested in sampling the flavors of our local brewers. Additionally, the recognition received by the [Oscar-winning] film “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” has brought a lot of attention to Sylva as the backdrop for the filming of the movie. Sylva has [recently] made many nationally circulating articles as a place to visit.

arts & entertainment The Apple Harvest Festival in Waynesville (left) and the Taste of Scotland Festival in Franklin (right). A Shot Above photo • Donated photo

• When: June 14-17 • Where: Downtown Franklin • Years active: 21 • Attendance: 2,000 • Put on by: Friends of the Scottish Tartans Museum

reach everyone. Personally, I’m very happy that we can continue to bring in representatives of the Cherokee Nation to our festival.

The lectures and demonstrations of their culture help to remind us all that we are now, as we were then, neighbors.

• Hopes: Festivals are an important way to bring a lot of folks to our town for a day, or for a weekend, with the hope that they’ll want to come back and spend more time here. And to put on a festival, such as the Taste of Scotland & Celtic Festival, takes a good deal of money. We’re grateful to the [Macon County] Tourist Development Commission and the Tourist Development Authority who have continued to support our festival, as well as the Arts Council [of Macon County].

Many individuals and businesses also contribute to our festival every year, and we cannot operate without their continued support. I cannot count the hours of volunteerism put forth by the various committees and individuals from the start of planning through to the end of the festival, and many of our volunteers have worked with us for years. It’s my hope that this festival continues to garner the support it needs so we can continue to grow and be one of the best festivals held in Franklin.

Plans are already underway for the 2019 festival, and I want it to be better than this year’s. More music, more vendors, crafters, demonstrations, and more Highland Games.

Of course, we still need to get on with the 2018 festival. And to do that, we need continued support from the community. This festival is organized by a small group of folks who work very hard to provide something that the whole community can benefit from.

And that is reason enough.

FOLKMOOT INTERNATIONAL DANCE & MUSIC FESTIVAL • When: July 19-29 • Where: Events around Western North Carolina • Years active: 35 • Attendance: 8,000 seated shows/40,000 free events • Put on by: Folkmoot • Website: www.folkmoot.org • Interviewee: Angie Schwab, Folkmoot executive director • Purpose: We give Haywood County “only-ness” in that we’re the only organization in the eastern United States that has an international folk festival.

• Challenges: Folkmoot’s challenges have been well-documented. Having [over] 200 people living at the Friendship Center and travelling throughout Western North Carolina is expensive. The festival costs about $260,000 and we work hard to break even.

We’ve been working to diversify festival programming and to do more with youth and families. After a couple years with this formula, we’re starting to feel successful in this realm and will continue to build this kind of educational, cultural tourism products for them. We’d also like to feature a couple nationally known acts at the festival that will generate new interest in Folkmoot, but that idea is for 2019. We need to recruit a significant sponsor to make that happen.

There are some limitations in Haywood County in regard to taking advantage of current festival trends. For instance, most audi-

S EE FESTIVALS, PAGE 26

Smoky Mountain News

TASTE OF SCOTLAND & CELTIC FESTIVAL

• Website: www.tasteofscotlandfestival.org • Interviewee: George James, TSCF chairman • Purpose: What this festival brings to downtown Franklin is a celebration of the heritage brought to these mountains, that of the Scots and Scots-Irish, along with celebrating the historic relationships with the Cherokee.

• Challenges: Our biggest challenge early this year was finding someone to be in charge of the festival. Now that we have a chairperson, our biggest challenge is getting enough volunteers to jump on board to head up the several subcommittees. There are a lot of things that take place all weekend, and the more volunteers we have the better work we can do. Many hands make for lighter work. We’re actively recruiting volunteers to help with the festival.

• Staying relevant: We’re also in a unique position, as Franklin is home to the Scottish Tartans Museum. The Taste of Scotland & Celtic Festival celebrates the history and heritage of our area, and encourages everyone to participate. This year, we’re including a Highland Games contest to further enhance our offerings to the public and hopefully to generate more interest in and for Franklin and in our festival. Lastly, with few exceptions, our festival is free and open to the public. The Clan Dinner, on Thursday night, is the only ticketed event for the festival.

• Importance: The Taste of Scotland & Celtic Festival is important to our community because it’s a celebration of our community. We’re actively celebrating our cultural inheritance, and sharing that with the people who attend the festival. We work very hard to include as many events as we can to

April 25-May 1, 2018

• Importance: Greening Up the Mountains is a community event and its ongoing success can be attributed to the support of the community. From local businesses that provide financial sponsorships, to the nonprofit organizations that come out to share the work, to the vendors that arrive from both the local and surrounding communities, it’s the local community coming together that creates this magical event that invites visitors to come and join in. As the event organizer, it’s important to me to continue the work to create the high-quality festival that everyone has come to expect.

• Hopes: Moving forward, I would be interested in recruiting new artisans to come out and participate so that we have something new and fresh every year, as well as providing interesting and interactive activities for children and teenagers. It’s my hope that the beverage arts area will receive enough support to be able to expand in the future to feature even more local brewers. If I had a choice to add one thing to the festival, it would be another stage so that we can provide even more local music throughout the day. This year’s event will host 12 bands on two stages. I think it would be great to increase to a third stage if funding and support were available in the future.

25

arts & entertainment

FESTIVALS, CONTINUED FROM 25

Competitors before a stickball game at the Cherokee Indian Fair.

Getting festive ith the coming of spring, the festival season in Western North Carolina is now underway. Atop the festivals features in our cover story, below are several other key events that will be happening in our region:

April 25-May 1, 2018

W

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Smoky Mountain News

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May 5-6: Ramp Festival, Waynesville May 11: Mother’s Day Gemboree, Franklin May 12: Whole Bloomin’ Thing, Waynesville May 19: Strawberry Jam, Bryson City May 25-26: Swain County Heritage Festival, Bryson City May 26-27: Cashiers Rotary Arts & Crafts Festival June 2-3: Ole Smokey Spring Farm Fest, Clyde June 7-9: Cherokee Bluegrass Festival June 8-9: Cold Mountain Music Festival, Lake Logan June 7-10: Highlands Motoring Festival June 9: Cherokee Voices Festival June 16: Front Street Arts & Crafts Show June 23-24: Village Square Arts & Crafts Show, Highlands July 14: Appalachian Heritage Festival, Franklin July 14: Blueberry Festival, Cherokee July 26-29: Macon County Gemboree, Franklin July 27-28: Hillbilly Jam, Maggie Valley Aug. 4-5: Lake Logan Multisport Festival Aug. 10-11: Mountain High BBQ Festival, Franklin Aug. 18: Franklin Folk Festival Aug. 25: Qualla Arts & Crafts Open Air Indian Market, Cherokee Aug. 25-26: Village Square Arts & Crafts Show, Highlands Aug. 31-Sept. 1: Smoky Mountain Folk Festival, Lake Junaluska Sept. 1-2: Cashiers Rotary Arts & Crafts Festival Sept. 2-3: Canton Labor Day Festival Sept. 22: Green Energy Park Youth Art Fest, Dillsboro

• Sept. 28-30: Guest Appreciation Festival, Nantahala Outdoor Center • Oct. 2-6: Cherokee Indian Fair • Oct. 5-7: Cashiers Leaf Festival • Oct. 6: Colorfest, Dillsboro • Oct. 6-7: John C. Campbell Folk School Fall Festival, Brasstown • Oct. 11-13: Autumn Leaves Craft Show, Franklin

Lights & Luminaries, Dillsboro.

• Oct: 13: Church Street Art & Craft Show, Waynesville • Oct. 19-20: Fall Harvest Festival, Stecoah • Oct. 19-21: Leaf Lookers Gemboree, Franklin • Oct. 20: PumpkinFest, Franklin • Nov. 3: WNC Pottery Festival, Dillsboro • Nov. 8-11: Highlands Food & Wine Festival • Nov. 23: Hard Candy Christmas Art & Craft Show, Cullowhee • Nov. 30-Dec.1: Balsam Range Art of Music Festival • Dec. 7-8/14-15: Lights & Luminaries, Dillsboro • Dec. 31: Possum Drop, Brasstown

ences expect to have access to beer and wine, but we are not allowed to serve alcohol in the outdoor space at Folkmoot or at most local festival venues that we rent in July. It’s a loss for us financially and some people don’t understand why alcohol isn’t permitted, because elsewhere, it’s standard.

I should mention that 40 percent of our year-round (off-season) ticket buyers are completely new to Folkmoot — friendship dinners, cultural conversations and the outdoor festival events like the Sunday Soiree and Many Cultures Day are what’s new.

• Staying relevant: Over the last two years, we’ve tried to communicate why having a Folkmoot is important and ticket buyers are responding. The core of the message is that accepting cultural diversity makes our society stronger — no matter what our cultural heritage, we’re more alike than different.

We’ve put the founding board’s intent forward, providing local kids and families with access to world culture in Haywood County. We’ve given that aspect of our programming a lot of attention. They wanted the kids to have higher expectations of themselves by having access to the world here at home. We are doing this in a different format — more outdoor festival events and adding in food and beverage and a few contemporary acts.

We’ve also learned more background on what a Folkmoot means. In Europe, the word translates to a “meeting of the people,” but it also means that when the “people” come together, they’re putting community over politics. They’re having discussions on how they work together to meet community people’s needs. They report this information to politicians who then represent the community. They come to agreement on their priorities and what special needs require special care. After the process, they dance. We’re incorporating the essence of these ideas into the Folkmoot organization.

• Importance: We’ve been around a long time. Some people have grown ambivalent.

There are a list of Folkmoot myths that I hear fairly regularly that are based on audience/community experiences from the past and I’m going to write those up soon and make them into a blog for our website.

We’re trying to do things a little differently, surprise people with the variety, quality and diversity of shows and hope the community will come out and enjoy what we’re doing.

A few years ago, a public official congratulated me on taking the director’s job by saying, “Good luck making everyone’s Folkmoot dreams come true.” I laughed then, but now I know what he meant. Lots of nostalgia associated with Folkmoot and it’s hard to make changes to something so precious to so many. At this point and time, we make lots of decision that are purely economic. We know what elements of the festival that audiences will support and the new events are experiments attempting to meet their needs. We’re seeing increasing ticket sales, so we feel confident that we are headed in the right direction.

That being said, the community can expect alot from Folkmoot. We have a lot of fun for everyone coming up at the July festival and have some creative ideas in mind for 2019. Folkmoot has an ambitious staff — we are entrepreneurial and creative and we know how to do a lot with a little. I suspect we’ll surprise you with our fresh approach.

• Hopes: We’re leveraging partnerships to offer new cultural events. We’re developing the youth component of what we do. The outdoor festival opportunities are becoming more important. We’re incorporating more food and beverage into all of our events.

We’re listening very closely to the community in our festival design process. We’re working to improve our own neighborhood and are committed to having as much as possible going on at the Friendship Center.

MOUNTAIN HERITAGE DAY • When: Saturday, Sept. 29 • Where: Western Carolina University, Cullowhee • Years active: 44 • Attendance: 15,000 • Put on by: WCU • Website: www.mountainheritageday.com • Interviewee: Geoff Cantrell, WCU Office of Communications & Public Relations • Purpose: Having started as Founders’ Day during the inauguration of Chancellor H.F. “Cotton” Robinson in 1974, the festival became known as Mountain Heritage Day the following year.

• Challenges: Budget. Mountain Heritage Day is a free event. That means no admission, free parking, free shuttle service, free activities, free music. This is WCU’s gift to the community. And we have no plans to ever change that. Sponsorship and volunteers are of greater importance than ever. Staff has to reach out, be creative and true to mountain ways, “make do or do without” when it comes to presenting and promoting the festival. We do have some wonderful partnerships and we ask that attendees consider supporting the businesses that support us.

• Staying relevant: By staying true to our roots. A festival about heritage and traditions should be steadfast to its mission in presenting heritage and traditions. That’s always subject to interpretation, discovery and new voices, so it’s not like I’m saying there’s never anything new. To the contrary, every year there are new things to see and do. We stay relevant with mixing new bands and musicians into the lineup along with old favorites, by presenting different living history demonstrations every year, adding fun competitions and children activities. In a larger sense, Mountain Heritage Day is the “handing on” of heritage through musicians and their students playing together, the gathering of shape-note singers from all over the region, master craftsmen demonstrating their handiwork, the county fair style of canned goods and recipes contests, through Cherokee people sharing their traditions and inviting festival-goers to participate in a friendship dance. Mountain Heritage Day is

— Geoff Cantrell, WCU Office of Communications & Public Relations

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Smoky Mountain News

WAYNESVILLE TIRE, INC.

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL • When: Saturday, Oct. 20 • Where: Downtown Waynesville • Years active: 30 • Attendance: 45,000 • Put on by: Haywood County Chamber of Commerce • Website: www.haywoodchamber.com • Interviewee: CeCe Hipps, HCCC executive director • Purpose: The event began as a way for the apple growers to sell their remaining harvest of apples, hence the name Apple Harvest Festival.

• Challenges: The biggest challenge we face in planning any event is the amount of time it takes to organize and plan the event.

Once you close the event for one year, you immediately begin working on the next year’s event. Advertising dollars, volunteers and rising event cost.

• Staying relevant: The Apple Harvest Festival is one of those events which fits for the community. We don’t change too much with the festival from year to year because what we currently do keeps everyone happy.

The craft breweries and recreational activities compliment the Apple Harvest Festival.

If [the over 180] vendors and people continue to come, we’re happy.

• Importance: The Apple Harvest Festival continues to be a draw with both the young and old. Families like to bring their children and enjoy the music.

• Hopes: Going forward advertising dollars will continue to be a challenge along with assistance from volunteers. We take each and every event one year at a time in tracking the time, expenses, and make the decision whether to continue or not.

Unfortunately, due to decrease in participation, rising cost of expenses, and time, we’ve been forced to make some tough decisions and discontinue some events. For example, two years ago we made the difficult decision to discontinue the Blue Ridge Breakaway. It was a favorite of not only our riders but also our volunteers. I still receive calls to this day requesting the event to come back.

April 25-May 1, 2018

“Western North Carolina is a special place and if you’re from here, it is good to remember from where you came.

If you’ve moved here, it is good to have an appreciation of this place you now call home.”

Mountain Heritage Day will always be evolving. Otherwise, after 44 years, I think we’d have to say “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” and “y’all come” [down] for Mountain Heritage Day.

arts & entertainment

The Mars Hill Clogging Team performs at Mountain Heritage Day.

regional in scope. We have a lot of talent and wisdom to draw from.

• Importance: There’s something unique about Mountain Heritage Day in that it’s university-sponsored, community driven, held on campus and promotes Southern Appalachian history, culture and traditions. It’s family oriented, so the target demographic is young and old and everyone in-between. We’re established.

Mountain Heritage Day has had an established date and location on the WCU campus the last Saturday in September for more than four decades now. We’re the granddaddy of these type festivals and we promote all the hometowns and communities across the mountains and the good things they’ve got going on.

So, it’s not just about listening to music, eating, and shopping, although there are some mighty fine opportunities to do those things. Mountain Heritage Day encourages active participation. You can go on a wagon ride, cheer on the Cherokee stickball games, learn to make crafts, play games in the children’s tent and enter one of several competitions like timber cutting with a crosscut saw. We also take time to honor the people who are engaged in preserving our traditions with the Mountain Heritage Awards, as well as the artisans who are carrying on the region’s strong arts and crafts heritage.

Western North Carolina is a special place and if you’re from here, it is good to remember from where you came. If you’ve moved here, it is good to have an appreciation of this place you now call home. This is a diverse community that has melded and incorporated many different influences over the generations into who we are and what we do, whether it’s cooking, hunting, fishing, farming to worship, music or whatever you want to name. That’s why we celebrate the Cherokee, African-American and Scots-Irish historic aspects of the region, and look beyond to other influences that are shaping us today.

• Hopes: We appreciate hearing from our guests, what they would like to see or do, things to make attending the event more convenient and their visit more comfortable. We’re always looking for ways to expand our offerings for children and adults alike, and I expect the trend of more artisans and craftsmen to continue. I think

27

arts & entertainment

he 21st annual Greening Up the Mountains Festival is Saturday, April 28, in downtown Sylva. The festival includes more than 200 vendors who will be spread throughout two locations — on Main Street and Railroad Avenue.

T

A project of the Town of Sylva, this is the town's largest annual event and brings in an estimated 12,000 residents, visitors and exhibitors to the downtown area.

The Greening Up The Mountains Festival is a perfect time to tour the location of the Oscar-winning film “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.”

This year’s celebration will kick off with the annual GUTM 5K run at 9 a.m. at Mark Watson Park and the Mountain Youth Talent Contest at 9:30 a.m. at the Main Street Stage. There will be 12 bands performing on two stages throughout the day.

Returning for the 4th year, Eric's Fresh Fish Market and Lulu's on Main will host a Crawfish Boil on Mill Street.

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

JCTDA photo by Nick Breedlove

28

The Maggie Valley Band.

Handmade, Small-Batch Chocolates Now Serving Brittle & Gelato

arts & entertainment

CRAFTING SWEET MEMORIES Monday-Saturday • 546 West Main St., Sylva

(828) 631-3379 • BaxleysChocolates.com

ENTERTAINMENT THE BRIDGE PARK STAGE • 10 to 10:45 a.m.: The Maggie Valley Band • 11 to 11:45 a.m.: Log Noggins • Noon to 12:45 p.m.: Modern Strangers • 1 to 1:45 p.m.: Darren and the Buttered Toast • 2 to 2:45 p.m.: Ol’ Dirty Bathtub • 3 to 4 p.m.: Colby Deitz GREENING UP THE MOUNTAINS ANNUAL 5K RUN • 8 a.m.: Registration • 9 a.m.: Race Starts • 10 a.m.: Awards Ceremony, Mark Watson Park

All proceeds support the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department

SHUTTLE SERVICE During the festival, shuttle service is available from the Justice Center (spill over at Jackson Plaza) during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. $1 per boarding, including children.

There will be a drop off area for patrons with disabilities, as well as parking in front of the Sylva Police Station on West Main Street. Festival-goers can park and walk, or ride the shuttle, to the festival from two locations. The shuttle is $1 per person, each way.

Several downtown businesses and organizations are offering “pay to park” locations closer to the festival, and we encourage the patronage of these local businesses.

April 25-May 1, 2018

THE MAIN STREET STAGE • 9:30 to 11 a.m.: Mountain Youth Talent Contest • 11 to 11:45 a.m.: Bird in Hand • Noon to 12:45 p.m.: Ian Ridenhour • 1 to 1:45 p.m.: Lance and Lea • 2 to 2:45 p.m.: Troy Underwood • 3 to 4 p.m.: Breedlove Brothers

Smoky Mountain News 29

arts & entertainment

MAY WORKSHOP SCHEDULE SATURDAY APRIL 28TH 2- 3:30: Yoga Bootcamp: Core w/ Jay ($30/ $35 at door) SATURDAY MAY 5TH 2 - 3:30: Plantar Fasciitis w/ Leigh-Ann ($30/ $35 at door) SATURDAY MAY 12TH 2 - 3:30: Partner Yoga to Celebrate Mother's Day w/ Tara ($50 per pair/ $55 at door) SATURDAY MAY 19TH 2 – 3:30: Exploring the Heart Chakra w/ Sara and Leigh-Ann ($30/ $35 at door) SATURDAY MAY 26TH 2- 3:30: Yoga for Bone Health w/ Jay and Ann ($30/ $35 at door)

This must be the place

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

CALL OR REGISTER ONLINE AT WaynesvilleYogaCenter.com

274 S. MAIN ST. WAYNESVILLE

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

828.246.6570

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Log on. Plan a trip.

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30

‘Welcome to TRL, I’m Carson Daly…’

HOT PICKS 1 2 3 4 5

There will be a full day of live music, barbecue and craft beer from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, April 28, at Outdoor 76 in Franklin.

“How did you get into all this?”

The Greening Up the Mountains “After Party” Standing in the hallway of will kickoff at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the The Grey Eagle this past Monday Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro in Sylva. evening, I was asked that question by a well-known Asheville Country legend Tanya Tucker will perform at singer-songwriter. We were both 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the Smoky at the legendary music venue for Mountain Center for the Performing Arts an intimate solo gig by Jeremy in Franklin.

Garrett, fiddler/singer for The Friends of the Library will feature Grammy winning bluegrass/jam bestselling author Wiley Cash as guest speaker act The Infamous Stringdusters. at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 3, at the First United To which, I had just conducted a Methodist Church’s Christian Growth Center in live onstage Q&A with Garrett.

Waynesville.

Finishing my beer, I was heading for the bathroom when the The Art After Dark 2018 season will kickoff singer-songwriter stopped me from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 4, in downtown and shook my hand: Waynesville.

Singer-songwriter: “Hey man, I have a new record out this suminto all of this?” mer. I’d love to send it to you to listen to, Well, in essence, the seed was planted then sit down and chat with you about it.” when I was a teenager. Growing up in the Me: “Sure, that’d be great. Look forward late 1990s, there was nothing I looked forto it.” ward to more than getting back home from Singer-songwriter: “Dude, you’ve been middle school as fast I could to catch Total getting some wild interviews lately.

Request Live (TRL). With a rotating casts of Graham Nash. David Crosby. Art MTV VJs (mainly Carson Daly) premiering Garfunkel. Wayne Coyne. Sheesh. Makes the latest music videos and requests from me intimidated to sit down and talk to you audience members and viewers, my cronies about what I’m doing.” and I would watch in awe as Times Square Me: “Nah, man. I love it all. I’d be just as was overtaken by kids our age, all excited to happy to chat with you as anyone else. It’s be on national television, to be in the presabout sharing the love of music with others, ence of their musical heroes who would connecting all the dots of a community and casually swing by MTV Studios to say hey to its artists, and that’s what I want to do.”

Singer-songwriter: “Yeah, I mean, I play the multitude of screaming millennials.

When I was senior in high school (2002music and everything, but you seriously 2003), my mother’s childhood friend had a love music. It’s unreal. How did you get

daughter who worked at MTV Studios for MTV2. Somehow, I was able to make my way down to New York City, and there I was, getting a private tour of the TRL studios. I even got to get my picture taken in that iconic photo booth all the celebrities would sit and pose in. This was big stuff for a kid from a town with more cows than people in Upstate New York.

It was then and there I decided to go to college for broadcast journalism. I was going to be Carson Daly. Quinnipiac University in Connecticut. And right towards the end of my schooling, it was apparent that TRL was losing steam (only to be cancelled in 2008).

The advent of YouTube and instant digital gratification at the hands of the Internet ended the daily urge (that I knew well) to wait until after school to see the latest music videos. No more need for Carson Daly & Co. The road had been closed on that avenue of my dreams.

But, in some cosmically serendipitous series of events, I found myself at a winter music festival (March 2006) in the frozen depths of the Adirondack Mountains of Lake Placid, New York. By chance, I met a friendof-a-friend who happened to run a (now defunct) music magazine in Burlington, Vermont. I needed an internship to graduate. He needed an intern. I jumped on it, not knowing anything about how to interview musicians, let alone how to put those words and thoughts into coherent sentences and paragraphs that could hold a reader’s attention.

In the beginning, I was what bluegrass great Peter Rowan (my first real deal interview) would refer to as a “greenhorn,” someone who is wet behind the ears, just barely getting out of the gate in terms of your pursuits, and even perceptions of the who, what, where, when and why of your aspirations.

And yet, I kept doing it, kept liking it more and more. It just felt good, a natural kind of high sitting there with a musician you respect and kicking the can of conversation around, away from noisy crowds and vast highways. It just made sense to me to do it, and still does, even more so today.

Patterson Hood of the Drive-By Truckers once told me, “What’s more human than music? That, and literature and art are the three things the human race got right.” And I agree with him, wholeheartedly. Personally, I aim to connect people, places and things through the power of music, especially when performed live. There’s something so magical — a sense of unknown adventure — that resides at the heart of a live performance. It’s a feeling I keep chasing after, each and every show I find myself at, regardless of crowd size and what not.

Music is the true common denominator between all walks of humanity. It’s in our genetics to feel the ancient, sacred sensations caused by rhythm and dance, percussion and soul. And I aim to bring those feelings to the surface of our publication, to celebrate the joy of music and the intricate minds behind the sounds, all in an effort to share and spread a sense of compassion to fellow man in seemingly dark times where division can override camaraderie.

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

On the beat

In celebration of the spring season, there will be a full day of live music, barbecue and craft beer from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, April 28, at Outdoor 76 in Franklin.

Rock House Lodge will have 18 craft beers on draft, with portions of the beer

and wine sales to benefit the Mainspring Conservation Trust. Appalachian Smoke will have fresh barbecue onsite. From noon to 5 p.m. you can mingle with members of the Nantahala Hiking Club.

Live music from Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) from 2 to 4 p.m. following

by Frogtown Bluegrass from 5 to 7 p.m.

There will also be face painting from 5 to 7 p.m. by Macon Faces. www.outdoor76.com.

arts & entertainment

Tanya Tucker comes to Franklin

Live music, barbecue at Outdoor 76

Tanya Tucker.

Country legend Tanya Tucker will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

A defining voice of country music and a modern-day legend, Tucker inspired many female artists who still top the charts today. From the signature classic songs to the unforgettable sass and soul of her voice, Tucker has paved a path in country music and beyond through an unprecedented level of success.

Tucker is still going strong in a career that started with her debut single “Delta Dawn” at age 13. With appearances across the world, the Grand Old Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame and even Super Bowl Half-Time Show, Tucker’s career, nearly four decades already underway, is proving to be one for the record books.

Tickets start at $28. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, click on www.greatmountainmusic.com.

The Greening Up the Mountains festival “After Party” will kickoff at 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 28, at the Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro in Sylva.

Live music will be provided by Log Noggins (5 to 7 p.m.), Ol’ Dirty Bathtub (7 to 9 p.m.) and The Chris Cooper Project (9 to 11 p.m.)

828.586.1717 or www.soulinfusion.com.

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The Haywood Community Chorus will present Dan Forrest’s “Lux: The Dawn from on High” at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 6, at the Waynesville First Methodist Church.

Forrest, a Greenville Composer who has earned national acclamation, was commissioned two years ago by the Greenville Chorale to create the work. The text for the piece is drawn from an array of sources including hymns, liturgical Latin texts, and modern secular love poetry.

Forrest shares that his Christian faith flows though his music, and the theme running through “Lux” relates to the birth of Christ: “It’s not a Christmas kind of piece.

But there definitely is that kind of feel. It evokes the morning of Christ’s birth, so the sun is coming up from the horizon, but the light is coming down, so to speak. There’s a lot in here about light shining through darkness, about light persevering.”

Accompanying the group will be guest accompanist Kyle Ritter of All Souls Cathedral in Asheville. The two multi-talented musicians will perform together during intermission; in addition, the chorus will be accompanied by a select chamber of instrumentalists.

Filling out the program, the 85-member chorus will be performing Tom Fettke’s “The Majesty and Glory of Your Name” (selected by music ministers, year after year, as their favorite anthem), music by well-known composers John Rutter and Leonard Cohen, “Glory, Glory Hallelujah,” (an all-time favorite), and a South African song from the struggle against apartheid.

Founded in 1997 with a goal to help preserve an appreciation for the great classical music of the past, as well as the present, the community chorus is sponsored in part by The Junaluskans, the Haywood Arts Council, and its Chorus Angels.

Admission is free; a love offering will be taken.

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Smoky Mountain News

Serving All of Western North Carolina

Haywood Community Chorus

April 25-May 1, 2018

Soul Infusion ‘After Party’

PMA. Garret K. Woodward photo

Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

149 PARK ST. CANTON BESIDE ADVANCE AUTO

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On the beat

arts & entertainment

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â&#x20AC;˘ Andrews Brewing Company (Andrews) will host the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lounge Seriesâ&#x20AC;? with Kurt Lee Wheeler (singer-songwriter) April 27 and Rachel Stewart (singer-songwriter) April 28.

All shows are free and begin at 5 p.m. www.andrewsbrewing.com.

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April 25-May 1, 2018

â&#x20AC;˘ Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host an acoustic jam with Main St. NoTones from 6 to 9 p.m. April 26 and May 3. Free and open to the public. www.blueridgebeerhub.com.

â&#x20AC;˘ The Oconaluftee Visitor Center (Cherokee) will host a back porch old-time music jam from 1 to 3 p.m. May 5. All are welcome to come play or simply sit and listen to sounds of Southern Appalachia.

ALSO:

â&#x20AC;˘ Currahee Brewing (Franklin) will host The Maggie Valley Band (Americana/folk) 7 p.m.

April 28. All shows are free and begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.curraheebrew.com.

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Smoky Mountain News

â&#x20AC;˘ Nantahala Brewing (Bryson City) will host Old North State April 27, Soul Talk April 28, Lance & Lea May 4 and Bauner Chafin May 5. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.nantahalabrewing.com.

â&#x20AC;˘ The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Ben Wilson (guitar) April 27, Joe Cruz (piano/pop) April 28 and May 5, and Tina & Her Pony (Americana) May 4.

All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. 828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

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Art After Dark "Beauty and the Beasts" Friday, May 4th, 6-9PM Featuring photographer Jeffrey Stoner and jewelry artist Becky Smith

JEFFREY STONER PHOTOGRAPH

98 N. MAIN ST. â&#x20AC;˘ WAYNESVILLE NC â&#x20AC;˘ MON-SAT: 10-5:30 828.456.1940 â&#x20AC;˘ W W W.T WIGSAN DLEAVES.COM 32

â&#x20AC;˘ Balsam Falls Brewing (Sylva) will host Jeff Ginn (singer-songwriter) April 27. All shows begin at 8 p.m. www.facebook.com/balsamfallsbrewing.

â&#x20AC;˘ Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Round the Fire (classic rock/folk) 9 p.m.

April 27. Free. www.boojumbrewing.com.

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Karaoke w/DJ Steve April 27 and Somebodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Child (Americana) April 28. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

â&#x20AC;˘ Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Crystal Fountain (classic country) April 27, Chris Minick (singer-songwriter) April 28 and Spanky (singer-songwriter) May 4. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. www.froglevelbrewing.com. â&#x20AC;˘ Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will have an Open Mic night April 25 and May 2, and a jazz night with the Kittle/Collings Duo April 26 and May 3. All events are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.innovation-brewing.com. â&#x20AC;˘ Isis Music Hall (West Asheville) will host Susie Burke & David Surette 7 p.m. April 25, Frank Lee & Allie Burbrink 7 p.m. April 26, Italian Night 8:30 p.m. April 26, An Evening of Brazilian Classics 7 p.m. April 27, AmiciMusic 7 p.m. April 28, Andrew Finn 9 p.m. April 28, Peggie Ratusz 5:30 p.m. April 29 and Russ Wilson Swingtette 7:30 p.m.

April 29. For more information about the performances and/or to purchase tickets, click on www.isisasheville.com. â&#x20AC;˘ Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Anthony Mossburg April 27, Lance & Lea April 28 and a Cinco De Mayo Bash w/Sol Rhythms at 7 p.m. May 5. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. There will also be an open mic night at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday. www.lazyhikerbrewing.com. â&#x20AC;˘ Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host an open mic night every Thursday,

HART karaoke As a part of the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre â&#x20AC;&#x153;Winter Studio Season,â&#x20AC;? the theater has opened up its Harmonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Den bistro for karaoke performance on Saturday nights beginning at 8 p.m.

On nights when thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a theater performance in the Fangmeyer Theater, karaoke begins after the show is over. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to sing to enjoy being a part of the fun, and the theater atmosphere inspires a variety of musical styles, from pop to jazz to country to Broadway. www.harttheatre.org.

â&#x20AC;˘ Pub 319 (Waynesville) will host an open mic night from 8 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday with Mike Farrington of Post Hole Diggers. Free and open to the public. â&#x20AC;˘ Salty Dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (Maggie Valley) will have Karaoke with Jason Wyatt at 8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays, Mile High (classic rock) 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays, and a Trivia w/Kelsey Jo 8 p.m. Thursdays. â&#x20AC;˘ Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hoppy Hourâ&#x20AC;? and an open mic at 6 p.m. on Thursdays and live music on Friday evenings. 828.482.9794 or www.satulahmountainbrewing.com. â&#x20AC;˘ Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro (Sylva) will host the Greening Up the Mountains â&#x20AC;&#x153;After Partyâ&#x20AC;? at 5 p.m. April 28.

828.586.1717 or www.soulinfusion.com. â&#x20AC;˘ The Strand at 38 Main (Waynesville) will host an â&#x20AC;&#x153;Open Micâ&#x20AC;? night from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays. 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com. â&#x20AC;˘ The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host The Colby Dietz Band (Americana/rock) April 28 and Log Noggins (rock) May 5. All shows begin at 9:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host Humps & The Blackouts (psychobilly) April 27-28. All shows begin at 9:30 p.m.

On the street

Women of Waynesville donates $5,000 to Girls on the Run of WNC in 2017 thanks to proceeds from its Kentucky Derby Gala fundraiser. Donated photo

WOW Kentucky Derby Gala agency that supports a number of crucial programs in Haywood County, including funding for heating assistance, affordable housing, senior centers, Head Start, public transit and so much more.

“Mountain Projects provides so many services in Haywood County and need our support to continue those services despite funding cuts from the state and federal government,” Stone said. “WOW knows Mountain Projects is a good steward of its resources and we want to continue to raise awareness and funds for them.”

Last year’s Kentucky Derby Gala raised $5,000 for Girls on the Run of WNC. Tickets for the Kentucky Derby fundraiser are $40 each. WOW is also seeking business sponsors for the event. For more information, call 828.550.9978.

Since forming in 2012, WOW has raised more than $175,000 for local charities in Haywood County. To find out more about WOW, visit www.womenofwaynesville.org or follow them on Facebook.

April 25-May 1, 2018

Women of Waynesville, a nonprofit organization that supports the needs of women and children in Haywood County, will present the second annual Kentucky Derby Gala from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at The Maggie Valley Club.

Guests should come dressed in their best derby attire to participate in the Best Hat and Best Bowtie contests for a chance to win a gift basket. Guests will also be provided with an array of heavy Kentucky Derby-inspired hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar with everything you’ll need to make a mint julep. Attendees can watch the derby race on big screen TV and will have an opportunity to place bets on races with a chance to win amazing prizes.

“WOW is excited to offer yet another unique fundraiser idea to the community this year,” said WOW President Jessi Stone.

“What better way to spend Kentucky Derby Day than outside the country club on a beautiful spring afternoon?”

Proceeds from the event will benefit Mountain Projects, a community action

Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville will host a series of class and wine tasting dedicated to “Exploring the World of Wine with Pete Ricci.”

All classes run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Mondays. Classes are $49 each.

Participants will taste six to eight wines in each session. The classes are as follows: • April 30: “Warm Climate Wines & Cool Climate Wines.” Climate and the environment play a key role in wine styles. Participants will taste a selection of wine types from both warm and cool climate growing regions. Participants will (1) gain a greater appreciation for the role climate plays in wine making, (2) how the climate effects the components of wine, and (3) proper handling of wine, storage, serving temperature and glassware.

• May 7: “Where It All Started, Wines of the Old World.” You must know where you came from to understand who you are. Wine and wine making have a rich history. Many of Europe’s great wineries are hundreds of years old and were instrumental in the develop-

ment of wine types and styles. Most of the world’s grape varieties were developed in Europe. Participants will taste wines and discuss the local culture, cuisine and lifestyles of the region. Also, participants will explore the question, “What makes a great wine?”

• May 14: “Wine, American Style.”

Wine comes to the New World. Ricci will discuss America’s spin on wine. How wine moved from the dinner table to the night club, the swimming pool and the college campus. Participants will also explore (1) how marketing and wine ratings affect the wine industry, and (2) how to shop for wine. Participants will taste America’s version of Old World varieties.

• (May 21: 6-7:30p) Wine Regions Explode Around the World: Class & Wine Tasting: The demand for wine exploded with new marketing and wine became an important beverage to American entertaining. This led to the growth of wine regions that could support the higher demand in volume of the world’s consumption of wine.

Participants will taste wines from South America, Australia, New Zealand and other wine regions to understand a global view of wine.

For more information and/or to register, click on www.waynesvillewine.com.

arts & entertainment

‘Exploring the World of Wine’

Haywood history speaker series Smoky Mountain News

The popular “Haywood Ramblings” series presented by the Town of Waynesville Historic Preservation Commission will host its final event of the year with the “History of Main Street, Waynesville,” presented by Alex McKay at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 3, in the Town Hall Board Room on Main Street.

The speaker series will focus on the historic resources and rich heritage of Waynesville and Haywood County. In case of snow, the event will be automatically rescheduled for the second Thursday of the month.

Free and open to the public.

facebook.com/smnews 33

arts & entertainment

On the street Waynesville â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Great Decisionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; series The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Decisionsâ&#x20AC;? series will take place from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m. on Thursdays from May 3 through June 21 in the auditorium of the Waynesville Public Library.

Prepare to discuss the world. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Decisionsâ&#x20AC;? is Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest discussion program on world affairs. Presented by the Foreign Policy Association.

This program provides background information and policy options for the eight most critical issues facing America each year and serves as the focal text for dis-

â&#x20AC;˘ Line Dance Lessons will be held on Tuesdays in Waynesville. Times are 7 to 8 p.m. every other Tuesday. Cost is $10 per class and will feature modern/traditional line dancing. 828.734.0873 or kimcampbellross@gmail.com.

ALSO:

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Laughing Balsam Sangha,â&#x20AC;? a meeting for Mindfullness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, meets will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Mondays at 318 Skyland Drive in Sylva. Free admission. Call 828.335.8210, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Likeâ&#x20AC;? them on Facebook.

cussion groups across the country.

Schedule is as follows: Waning of Pax Americana? (May 3), Russiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Foreign Policy (May 10), China and America: the new geopolitical equation (May 17), Media and Foreign Policy (May 24), Turkey: A Partner in Crisis (May 31), U.S. Global Engagement and the Military (June 7), South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fragile Economy (June 14) and Global Health: Progress and Challenges (June 21) Questions may be directed to moderator David McCracken at dem32415@aol.com.

Registration is required: 828.356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

â&#x20AC;˘ There will be a free wine tasting from 1 to 5 p.m. April 28 and May 5 at Bosuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wine Shop in Waynesville. www.waynesvillewine.com or 828.452.0120. â&#x20AC;˘ A free wine tasting will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. April 28 and May 5 at Papouâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wine Shop in Sylva. www.papouswineshop.com or 828.631.3075. â&#x20AC;˘ 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. www.countrytraditionsnc.com.

Indian village now open The popular Oconaluftee Indian Village will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday from April 30 to Nov. 10.

As you step into the Oconaluftee Indian Village, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re transported back to witness the challenges of Cherokee life at a time of rapid cultural change. Tour guides help you explore the historic events and figures of the 1760â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Visitors can interact with villagers as they participate in their daily activities. The Village also hosts live reenactments, interactive demonstrations and Hands-On Cherokee Pottery for Kids classes.

For more information, click on www.cherokeehistorical.org.

April 25-May 1, 2018

Vein Education Series

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Problems with veins can cause: â&#x20AC;˘ Aching, cramping or burning â&#x20AC;˘ Leg numbness or tingling â&#x20AC;˘ Skin changes or discoloration â&#x20AC;˘ Restless legs â&#x20AC;˘ Varicose veins

FREE Smoky Mountain News

Vein Education Session

HEY, LOOKY THERE.

YOU DO HAVE TIME TO DROP BY OUR JOB FAIR. Join us in our hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oak Ballroom, 2nd ďŹ&#x201A;oor, May 8, from 9 a.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3 p.m. at

Thursday $SULO , 201 5 30 Guest Speakers: Dr. Al Mina, MD, FACS Dr. Joshua Rudd, DO

Event location: Vein Center - Haywood Regional 2nd Floor - Entrance Behind Hospital

To register call

828.452.VEIN (8346) HarrahsCherokeeJobs.com Select positions eligible for hiring bonus. Restrictions apply. Please see Talent Acquisition department for details. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and have a valid photo ID. An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Harrahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cherokee Casinos value diversity and inclusion, and are equal

34

opportunity employers. Š2018, Caesars License Company, LLC.

MyHaywoodRegional.com

On the street

Raffle for a Florida Play & Stay package | Hole-In-One Sponsored by Waynesville Auto

Tailgate food prepared on the course by Hometown Hardware & MB Haynes

THURSDAY, MAY 17TH

Tailgating presents

on the

Greens

arts & entertainment

Folkmoot seeking artist vendors

at

4 PERSON CAPTAIN’S CHOICE $600/team $150/person Pre-Game/Registration

8:30 - 10:00am

Do you like Legos?

The next Lego Club meeting will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, April 26, at Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

The library provides Legos and Duplos for ages 3 and up. The only thing area children need to bring is their imagination. This program provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn how to develop fine motor skills. It also develops problem-solving skills, organization, planning through construction, and improves creativity.

All area children are invited join in and let your creativity shine. The Marianna Black Library is also requesting that you consider donating your gently used Legos and Duplos to the library, to help expand the Lego Club.

For more information, call the library at 828.488.3030. The Marianna Black Library, a member of the Fontana Regional Library, is located in downtown Bryson City at the corner of Academy and Rector.

10:00am

The Mountaineer

Call the chamber to sign up or for more info (828) 456-3021

Smoky Mountain News

• International Festival Day (IFD), takes place on Saturday, July 28. They are accepting 100 vendors that offer unique, handmade items. Sales of quality arts and cultural crafts, gifts with an international flair and local and international foods have been successful at IFD. International Day is in its 35th year.

You can submit your application by Monday, April 30, in order to be considered in our review/selection process. Accompanying this letter, you will find our vendor guidelines and an application form. Please read the guidelines and complete the application online at www.folkmoot.org/applications.

The application must be submitted with three (3) to six (6) color images of the work the applicant intends to sell and one (1) booth image, if available, along with a non-refundable $25 application fee.

Folkmoot prefers that vendors submit applications online but will accept hard copy applications, postmarked by April 30.

Contact Laura Shepherd or Catherine MacCallum at 828.452.2997 or vendors@folkmoot.org if you have any questions. www.folkmoot.org.

Game Time/Shotgun Start

April 25-May 1, 2018

The 2017 Folkmoot Festival was one of the most successful in recent history with more ticket sales, more venues and special events, more sponsors and more donors than ever before. Folkmoot is now accepting applications for vendor space, your opportunity to be a part of the 2018 festival.

With good weather, Folkmoot anticipates that the 2018 festival will attract more than 25,000 people to downtown Waynesville.

This is an amazing venue for you to sell your products, at International Festival Day and Many Cultures Carnival. For detailed information about the festival schedule, please visit folkmoot.org.

Vendor-related opportunities: • Folkmoot also hosts Many Cultures Carnival (MCC) on Saturday, July 21. They are accepting 50 vendors for this event. The carnival focuses on children and families and features live entertainment by youthful singers and dancers, free dance lessons by international dancers, an arts and craft tent, food vendors as well as non profit organizations. This is the third year of MCC and we expect between 3,000 and 5,000 guests.

This ain't your olf granddaddy’s g tournament!

35

arts & entertainment

On the wall

Waynesville’s Art After Dark returns

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

The Art After Dark 2018 season will kickoff from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 4, in downtown Waynesville.

Each first Friday of the month (MayDecember), Main Street transforms into an evening of art, music, finger foods, bever-

Mountain Credit Union IT'S TIME FOR MOUNTAIN CREDIT UNION'S ANNUAL SHRED EVENT!

LOCATIONS & TIMES: Monday, April 30 Cherokee: 9 am - 12 noon Murphy: 9 am - 12 noon

36

Open call for Haywood Arts The Haywood County Arts Council and local nonprofit REACH are co-sponsoring the June Exhibit.

REACH serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse and teen dating violence. They not only operate a 24-hour helpline and emergency shelter, but also provide victim advocacy, legal assistance, counseling referrals and community education.

HCAC asks that interested artists select one piece to donate for this show — they are seeking variety and wide participation. Work themed around freedom and the arts are encouraged. All mediums are welcome for this exhibit. Please submit a complete application, as well as an image of the work you plan to donate or a digital sample of the donated work and a one-paragraph artist’s bio.

Applications are due April 30 and may be downloaded from www.haywoodarts.org.

All donated artwork will be dropped off at the Arts Council office May 29-30.

Haywood Arts Council ‘Watercolor & Wax’ This free community event gives you an opportunity to bring your sensitive documents to be shredded! It's the perfect opportunity to clean out your files and to safely discard credit card statements, old checks, IRS tax returns and any other sensitive material. All of the paper collected on Shred Day will be recycled saving our natural resources! Plan to bring your documents on the date and location that is most convenient for you!

Monday, May 7 Franklin: 9 am - 12 noon Sylva: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Monday, May 14 Waynesville: 9 am - 12 noon Candler: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

WWW.MOUNTAINCU.ORG

Monday, May 21 Asheville: 9 am - 12 noon Fletcher: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

ages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors.

Participants include Burr Studio, Cedar Hill Studios, Earthworks Gallery, Haywood County Arts Council’s Gallery & Gifts, The Jeweler’s Workbench, Moose Crossing Burl Wood Gallery, T. Pennington Art Gallery, Twigs and Leaves Gallery and The Village Framer.

It is free to attend Art After Dark. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com

The Haywood County Arts Council’s “Watercolor & Wax” exhibit will run through April 28.

The exhibit features eight local artists, including Barbara Brook, Melba Cooper, Mary Decker, Joan Doyle, Jo Ridge Kelley, Chelsea

Summers, Ann Vasilik and Maureen Simon.

The exhibit will include two- and threedimensional works of art. The juxtaposition of these two very different mediums will capture imaginations in multiple ways, with works ranging from the ethereal to the corporeal.

Visit the Haywood County Arts Council at 86 North Main Street in Waynesville to view the variety of art for sale. For more information, visit www.haywoodarts.org.

@SmokyMtnNews

On the wall

Art scholarship for Macon students

Recent work by Dominick DePaolo.

Controlled Chaos Film Festival

The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is excited to announce that the “Creations in Oil & Handcrafted Mugs” will run May 4 through May 26.

This exhibit features talented local artists including Melba Cooper, Don Millsaps, Jo Ridge Kelley, Nathan Perry, Mollie Harrington Weaver, Velda Davis, Tina Honerkamp, Sun Sohovich, Cayce Moyer, Susan Phillips, Cory Plott, Cathey Bolton, Dominick DePaolo and Carolyn Strickland.

Visit the Haywood County Arts Council at 86 North Main Street in Waynesville to view the variety of art for sale. www.haywoodarts.org.

ALSO:

• Gallery 1 Sylva will celebrate the work and collection of co-founder Dr. Perry Kelly with a show of his personal work at the Jackson County Public Library Rotunda and his art collection at the gallery. All work is for sale. Admission is free. Children are welcome. Gallery 1 has regular winter hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. art@gallery1sylva.com.

• Mad Batter Food & Film (Sylva) will host a free movie night at 7:30 p.m. every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. For the full schedule of screenings, click on www.madbatterfoodandfilm.com.

• There will be a “Thursday Painters Open Studio” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. at the Franklin Uptown Gallery. Bring a bag lunch, project and supplies. Free to the public. Membership not required. For information, call 828.349.4607.

FREE DAY OF FUN FOR KIDS! Hosted by Waynesville Kiwanis Everyone is invited to the annual "Spring Fling" at the Waynesville Recreation Center on Saturday, May 19, from 10 am to 3 pm

• A “Youth Art Class” will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon every Saturday at the Appalachian Art Farm on 22 Morris Street in Sylva. All ages welcome. $10 includes instruction, materials and snack. For more information, email appalachianartfarm@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.

• Free classes and open studio times are being offered at The Uptown Gallery in Franklin. Join others at a painting open studio session from 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday or from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Thursday. Bring your own materials and join an ongoing drawing course led by gallery artists from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday.

For information on days open, hours and additional art classes and workshops, contact the gallery on 30 East Main Street at 828.349.4607.

-Games & inflatables for kids -Free day pass at the Rec Center for Haywood Co. residents -Refreshments for sale by the Waynesville Kiwanis -Event is free to the public and will take place rain or shine

Smoky Mountain News

• The Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild CoPresident Suzanne Wingett will demonstrate the one-block-wonder technique during a workshop she will lead April 28 at the Tartan Hall in Franklin. For more information about the guild and the upcoming workshops, visit www.smokymtnquilters.org.

• The Waynesville Fiber Friends will meet from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of the month at the Panacea Coffee House in Waynesville. All crafters and beginners interested in learning are invited. You can keep up with them through their Facebook group or by calling 828.276.6226.

The Arts Council of Macon County will accept applications through May 1 for its annual $1,000 Arts Scholarship.

Guidelines and application forms are available from the council, any Macon County high school guidance office, or at www.artscouncilofmacon.org.

Macon County residents of all ages wishing to pursue a college degree in the performing, literary, visual/graphic arts or arts education may apply.

All applicants must submit to an in-person interview on Thursday, May 17. The recipient is chosen on the basis of talent, commitment, career aspirations and financial need.

The scholarship was established in 1988 to help talented and deserving Macon County residents prepare for a career in the arts. For more information contact any high school guidance office or the Arts Council of Macon County at 828.524.ARTS or arts4all@dnet.net.

April 25-May 1, 2018

• “Paint Nite Waynesville” will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursdays (April 26, May 3 and 17) at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville. There will also be a special Mother’s Day paint event at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 13. Sign up for either event on the Paint Night Waynesville Facebook page or call Robin Arramae at 828.400.9560. paintnitewaynesville@gmail.com.

Films created by Western Carolina University students will be screened at the annual Controlled Chaos Film Festival at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center in Cullowhee.

Several of the films have mature subject matter and are not suitable viewing for children. For more information, contact the Film and Television Production Program at 828.227.7491.

Tickets are $15 for seniors and WCU faculty/staff, and $20 for adults. Proceeds and donations benefit the Motion Picture Student Project Fund, which helps students

arts & entertainment

Haywood Arts ‘Creations in Oil & Handcrafted Mugs’

in WCU’s Film and Television Production Program with the cost of creating their senior thesis films.

For more information and/or to purchase tickets, click on bardoartscenter.wcu.edu.

WAYNESVILLE

PARKS AND RECREATION

828.456.2030

or email rlangston@waynesvillenc.gov

37

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

arts & entertainment

On the stage

38

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater Gregory Popovich.

The world-famous Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, which has been voted best new family show and is led by Las Vegas “Entertainer of the Year” Gregory Popovich, will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

Popovich and his furry costars offer a family-oriented blend of unique comedy, juggling skills, and much more. More than 30 rescue pets perform their skills and stunts with many surprises including a goat duo, a miniature horse, and a pair of geese is sure to entertain.

This amazing group of pets walk tightropes, balance on metallic balls, jump through hoops, play football, and much more.

Popovich grew up in a unique environment as the child of Russian circus performers and dog trainers. From a very young age, Popovich formed a special bond with animals and his connection with his mother’s show dogs led to his inclusion onstage. At the age of six, he began to learn the art of juggling and eight years later, he performed his first solo act as he juggled on a free-standing ladder. After that, he because a member of the Moscow Circus Group when he was just 17.

He traveled the world for several years before becoming the star of the circus and was asked to be their representative at international circus competitions worldwide. At the same time, Popovich was working to complete a five-year course and earned the degree of “Circus Creator and Producer.”

In 1990, Popovich was invited to join the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus in the United States. He was a center-ring juggler and the first Russian artist to every appear in the “Greatest Show on Earth.” In 1992, he was invited to be a featured performer at the Circus Circus Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was there that he and his wife Izolda, who was also a performer, decided to use their family kitten in Popovich’s clown act.

The audience consistently responded so well to the act that Popovich began thinking about building an entire act based on performing cats. He began to adopt cats and train them to perform. Eventually his efforts became the amazing “Cat Skills” act.

After taking a short break, Popovich took his show overseas and performed solely in Japan. At that time his show was known as “The One Man Moscow Circus.” When he returned to Las Vegas, Popovich wanted to expand the animal portion of his show and started building an impressive dog act.

In 2000, Popovich once again took his show on the road. He and his cast thrilled audiences in over 20 countries as well as in numerous U.S. cities. In 2005, he returned to Las Vegas. At this time, his show became “The World Famous Comedy Pet Theater,” and included dogs, cats, doves, white rats, ferrets, and more.

Tickets start at $18 per person. For more information, visit www.greatmountainmusic.com or call 866.273.4615.

• The Highlands Performing Arts Center will screen “Live via Satellite” the MET Opera’s “Cendrillon” by Massenet at 12:55 p.m.

Saturday, April 28, with a pre-opera discussion led by guest speaker Joseph Collins beginning at 12:30 p.m. For the first time ever, Massenet’s sumptuous take on the Cinderella story comes to the Met. Joyce DiDonato stars in the title role, with mezzosoprano Alice Coote in the trouser role of Prince Charming, Kathleen Kim as the Fairy Godmother, and Stephanie Blythe as the imperious Madame de la Haltière. Bertrand de Billy conducts Laurent Pelly’s imaginative storybook production. Tickets are available online at www.highlandspac.org, at the door or by calling 828.526.9047.

ALSO:

Books

Smoky Mountain News

39

Mystery novel delves into the opioid crisis n Elizabethan England, the vast majority of the population drank alcohol rather than unclean water, consuming up to a gallon of ale, beer, and wine every day. In his biography on Shakespeare, Anthony Burgess gives a compelling, humorous account of how so many of London’s population must have been tipsy by noon.

Twenty-first century America has taken a different path.

We have clean water, but in addition to alcohol and illegal drugs, abuse of prescription medications is now rampant.

Writer According to a National Survey on Drug Use, nearly half of all Americans over the age of 12 take prescription pain relievers, tranquilizers, sedatives or stimulants. Of those 119 million people, about 19 million obtain these drugs illegally. Various federal and state agencies have declared an opioid crisis, citing as proof the death rates from these drugs — 64,000 Americans in 2016 — and the ever-increasing use, both legal and illegal, of these pharmaceuticals.

In Lee Child’s The Midnight Line (Delacorte Press, 2017, 368 pages), Jack Reacher, an ex-Army officer who travels the country and who literally owns no property other than a toothbrush and the clothes on his back, once again finds himself in a war against the bad guys, this time with the manufacturers and suppliers of opioids. As in most of Child’s other Reacher novels, Reacher finds himself dropped into situations he hadn’t deliberately sought out, dealing with strangers, good and evil, drawn into their conflict by his sense of justice and his empathy for the weak and the innocent. Reacher would never describe himself that way — he avoids

Jeff Minick

I

words like honor, duty, and integrity — but he is a man who lives by such principles.

The novel opens when Reacher, traveling

through South Dakota, passes a pawn shop window and sees a class ring, West Point 2005 with the initials S.R.S. Reacher, a West Pointer himself, finds it unbelievable that anyone who had endured the trials of that institution would pawn or sell this symbol of achievement. He buys the ring, which judging by its size clearly belongs to a woman, questions the owner of the pawnshop as to the identity of the seller, and gets a lead on a certain Jimmy Rat. Then, in the words of another great detec-

‘Poetry Pickin’s’ at Macon Library A program titled “Poetry Pickin’s” will be presented by Elisha Minter at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 26, at the Macon County Public Library Meeting Room in Franklin.

Great poets from all eras come to life in this program, with special emphasis on James Weldon Johnson, Claude McKay, and Paul Laurence Dunbar, poets of the Harlem Renaissance. Minter revisits their works and lives through readings and recitations that show the history of the time, comparing the messages and the methods with those of current Rap and Spoken Word artists.

Interchanges with the audience on writings and poetry lead to discussions on how contemporary poets/spoken word artists reflect real life situations.

Minter holds a BA in African American and African Studies from UNC-Charlotte, and works at Charlotte’s Beatties Ford Road Library as a Youth Program Specialist and coordinator of the Library’s training and storytelling staff development component.

tive, the game is afoot.

Rat, a small-time punk, is a member of a motorcycle gang, which is unfortunate for him and the bikers with him. Reacher, an expert in martial arts, takes down the men, twists information out of Jimmy Rat, and finds himself pursuing another name, Arthur Scorpio, owner of a laundromat in Rapid City. When Reacher reaches Rapid City, he scouts out Scorpio’s laundromat and realizes by the guards posted outside the doors that Rat has telephoned ahead about his coming. In a nearby diner, while eating breakfast, Reacher meets Detective Gloria Nakamura, who suspects Scorpio of dealing drugs and is keeping him under surveillance.

As Reacher continues his investigation, aided at times by Nakamura, digging deeper into a twisted network of drug users and suppliers, always searching for the owner of the class ring, two others come to his side. Mackenzie, the wealthy twin sister of the ring’s owner, turns up, along with a private detective, Bramall, whom Mackenzie has hired to track down her missing sibling. The three of them eventually make a formidable team.

Fans of Jack Reacher will find in The Midnight Line all those qualities that have made best-sellers of Lee Child’s novels.

Reacher’s eccentricities — his love of coffee, his buying cheap clothes whenever he needs a change of clothing, his hitchhiking and traveling by bus, his refusal to carry a cell phone or computer — remain intact.

Child also delivers his customary taut, tough prose. Here, for instance, an unarmed Reacher confronts an assailant pointing a pistol at him: Reacher said, “Don’t point the gun at me.”

Stackley said, “Why the hell not?”

“It would be a serious mistake.”

“How would it be, man?”

Stackley raised the Colt.

Two-handed.

He pointed it at the center of Reacher’s chest.

Like aiming at a barn door.

He said, “How exactly is this a mistake?”

“Wait and see,” Reacher said. “Nothing personal.”

Stackley’s head exploded.

Stackley dies at the hands of an expert shooter who is also an opioid user.

Included in this latest Reacher tale is information about the opioid crisis and what has produced it. We learn a bit of the history of these types of drugs, which both erase pain and bring addiction. Many soldiers wounded in the First World War became slaves to the medications designed to bring relief from agony. Some of the opioid users we meet in The Midnight Line pop pills strictly for pleasure, while others, including soldiers hideously wounded and disfigured in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, take the pills both to kill their pain and to deal with their horrific scars and wounds.

One part of Child’s take on the opioid rings will strike some readers as false. Reacher asks an addict what she would do if she had an endless, free supply of drugs. The woman, admittedly strong and driven, replies that she would first “bathe in the stuff ” and would then “tone it down” until she finally kicked the habit. This sounds brave and good, but addiction rarely works that way. “Bathing in the stuff ” diminishes the will to end the addiction, eats away at interior fortitude, and erases the will.

That aside, The Midnight Line is a fine novel of suspense. It also stands as one more reminder of the damage even legal drugs are doing to our families, friends, and neighbors.

Franklin ‘Teen Poetry Night’

Wiley Cash returns to Haywood

The annual “Teen Poetry Night,” an open-mic event for high school-age poets and poetry lovers, will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, April 30, at The Rathskeller Coffee Haus in Franklin.

To celebrate National Poetry Month, young poets are invited to read or recite their original works, as well as share their favorite works by other poets, earning RAT Bucks to be spent at the event on The Rathskeller’s beverages, sandwiches, snacks and desserts.

There’s no pre-registration; participants are given stage time in a round-robin format. Family members and friends are invited to come and cheer their teens on.

The Rathskeller Coffee Haus is at 58 Stewart Street, a half block south of Main Street behind Books Unlimited. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There is no admission charge.

This event is sponsored by the Arts Council of Macon County, supported in part by the Grassroots Arts Program of the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Contact the Macon Arts Council for details, 828.524.ARTS or arts4all@dnet.net.

The Friends of the Library will hold its Annual Meeting and host a program featuring author Wiley Cash as guest speaker at 7 p.m.

Thursday, May 3, at the First United Methodist Church’s Christian Growth Center in Waynesville.

Cash is The New York Times bestselling author of The Last Ballad, A Land More Kind Than Home, and This Dark Road to Mercy.

He will discuss his latest novel, B, that “brings to life the heartbreak and bravery of the now forgotten struggle of the labor movement in the early twentieth century America.” The book is based on the real story of Ella May Wiggins and the tragic Loray Textile Mill strike in 1929 near Gastonia.

A short business meeting will be held prior to the program. The public is invited to attend. Refreshments by Kanini’s will be served at the conclusion of the program.

Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at Blue Ridge Books in Hazelwood, the Waynesville and Canton libraries, and from Friends of the Library Board members. The author will be signing books and will have books available for purchase.

Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

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A.T. identities Thru-hikers share their trail names’ origins Hikers enjoy the view from Max Patch along the Appalachian Trail. Holly Kays photos

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER

Valk

On the Appalachian Trail, everybody’s story is the same, in a sense — the chill of the cold, the heat of the sun, the constant challenge of placing one foot in front of the other toward the trail’s end in Maine.

But the stories are just as different as they are similar. Thru-hikers are retirees, recent college grads, folks in the middle of a career change. They’re Appalachian natives, West Coast wanderers, foreign travelers. They’re silly, serious, talkative and silent.

Likewise, the thru-hiker tradition of taking a trail name produces handles that range from thoughtful to goofy to inscrutable. Two simple questions are all that’s needed to reveal a portrait of any hiker’s personality and motivations: “What’s your trail name? Where did it come from?”

Butch and Sundance (Father and son David S. Sealey, 64, of Dallas, Texas, and David D. Sealey, 37, of Alexander City, Alabama)

retired. It’s time just to restore everything, come out and restore your faith in humanity, so to speak.”

P-Dub

Sundance: “We hiked in 2007, and we were Butch and Sundance. We’re Butch and Sundance again. Dad didn’t want to be old fart and snoring man, so we just kind of picked our own. This is our third thru-hike.

He did it in ‘05 and ‘07 and now, and I did it in ‘07, ‘11 and now this year. It’s probably my own form of mental health I guess. I was in the Marines for a bit. When I got out Dad came and hiked with me in ‘07. Then I went and worked overseas on a private military contract. That’s kind of hard work too, so in ‘11 I did another one. I’m currently employed as a law enforcement officer in Alabama, so I requested a leave of absence since Dad

(Paul Wilkinson, 65, of Pinewood, South Carolina) P-Dub: “It’s not a good story. It’s just my initials.”

Sundance: “He puts “PW” on everything, and he started hiking with some kids early on, so they started calling him ‘PDub.” We call him the most interesting man on the trail.

He doesn’t say a lot, but when he does it means something.”

P-Dub: “I retired last year from being a teacher. I grew up in West Virginia and ran in the mountains when I was little, so I might as well do it again before I’m gone.”

(Kerry Ellwanger, 25, of Hickory, North Carolina) “I’m assuming you know what a Rubik’s cube is? A Rubik’s is a brand, and there are a lot of other companies that make essentially the same thing. I brought one that’s called a Valk 3, so I brought that with me just for a form of entertainment.

When I stop for a break or a rest or whatever, I get it out and just play with it for a bit.

Other people saw me with it, and that’s where I got my name. I was really obsessed with them in middle school, so I got pretty fast at it.”

Spot (Scott Bookout, 46, of Durham, North Carolina) “The first night I was here I didn’t have cell service, so my wife called and the next day she said, ‘You have a SPOT sent to Neel’s Gap, and you will pick it up.’ So I was telling people about it at camp the next day and — Spot. This is basically a GPS unit and you can do a

couple different things. I just triggered the OK message because the agreement is when I get to camp I hit this to let them know I’m not going to travel anymore. It’s peace of mind for my wife is what it is. I came out here one, because I’d always wanted to walk it, just to kind of think about stuff while I’m walking.

Checking in once a day doesn’t bother me a bit.”

Swiss Miss and Smoking Bear (Marianne Seiler, 53, and Urs Seiler, 56, of Switzerland) Smoking Bear: “We got them (our trail names) by ourselves. Swiss Miss because we are from Switzerland, and my name comes from I’m smoking, and my real name is Urs, and Urs in old European language is the same as the bear. That’s the reason for the names.

The dream is to make a long-distance hike, and that is not possible in Europe. It’s very difficult to make such an interesting trail. In Switzerland it is not possible to do such a thing, so we decided to do the Appalachian Trail. We love it. The nights are a little bit cold. The days now, it’s great. The goal is to stay six months on the trail, as long as possible. And if we reach the goal then it’s fine.”

Sparrow (Jack Hufford, 27, of Traverse City, Michigan) “My name is Jack and I work on ships, so it’s like Jack Sparrow. It’s better than I’m sure a name I could have gotten for some dumb shit that I do. Instead

F

Nantahala facilities closed

A slate of upcoming backpacking adventures will provide opportunity for an immersive experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. n The “Women in the Woods” trip will embark at 9 a.m. Friday, May 18, from the Greenbrier area and return the following day. Professional naturalist Liz Domingue will lead this women-only trip, engaging in honest conversation and instruction about the skills needed to be safe and successful in the backcountry. n A two-night, three-day adventure will leave at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 30, from the Deep Creek Picnic Pavilion near Bryson City. Wildland Trekking Company will lead this backcountry vacation

Synchronous firefly lottery to open April 27 This year’s synchronous firefly viewing in the Elkmont area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be Thursday, June 7, through Thursday, June 14, and a lottery for tickets will be open from noon Friday, April 27, through 8 p.m. Monday, April 30.

The annual event centers on the naturally occurring phenomenon of the Photinus carolinus, a firefly species whose males flash synchronously during mating season in late May or early June.

Since 2006, the park has restricted access to the Elkmont area to shuttle service during the eight days of peak activity to minimize disturbance to these unique insects.

A total of 1,800 parking passes will be available for the event, with lottery winners charged a $20 reservation fee and awarded a parking pass. Shuttle service is $2 for a roundtrip ride. Lottery applicants will receive results on Wednesday, May 9.

Visit www.recreation.gov and search “firefly event” to enter the lottery, or call 1.877.444.6777. www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm.

Happy Feet Reggie Rocket (Kady Cobb, 22, of Asheville, North Carolina) “You know ‘Rocket Power,’ the old cartoon? Reggie Rocket was the girl in it, one of the guys’ sister. I was her for Halloween last year. I was in Franklin, I still didn’t have a trail name, and I was just chatting with someone and he was just like, ‘Dude, you totally remind me of Reggie Rocket.’ Out of nowhere. I was like, yes, that makes so much sense because I was just her for Halloween. So I liked it and it stuck. I definitely take it as a compliment because she was pretty cool. The show is about this group of friends who live on the strip in California and they surf and skate and snowboard all the time. She’s the only girl who’s really on the show in a group of boys.

Essentially that’s what’s happening out here. There’s very few women out here.”

Crazylegs and Turtlestone (Section hiking partners Jenny Kelley [left], 62, of Wakeman, Ohio, and Joyce Peterson, 67, of Wellington, Ohio) Crazylegs: “Back in high school I had

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these argyle socks that came all the way up above my skirt, above my knees, and they were pretty wild even for then. This one guy in my class kept calling me crazy legs. Then when I joined a hiking club several years ago, I didn’t even know what a trail name was, and one of the questions was, ‘What’s your trail name?’ For some reason that story popped into my head.”

Turtlestone: “My husband didn’t want me to have a girly girl name, because I would have been Meadowlark or Bluebird or something like that. We got to thinking

about it — what’s a name that nobody’s going to recognize? When I was little, we used to have family reunions and we’d go down along the river and look for turtle stones with our aunts, and I thought, nobody’s really going to know what a turtle stone is. In thinking about it that is really a good earth name too, because I like to think I’m slow like a turtle, but I’m steady. And I like to think that I’m a rock. I’m not a blowover type.”

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(Anna Michel, 24, of Seattle, Washington) “We dance a lot and I was very happy, and apparently it’s a dancing penguin — so, ‘Happy Feet.’

That’s it.

My friend who I met on the shuttle here and who I’ve hiked with for the last month, her goal was to have a dance party every morning, so we have a dance party every morning with whoever’s around.

Sometimes it’s 15 people and sometimes it’s just the two of us. It’s really terrible, really bad dancing. Sometimes we try to incorporate shoulder rolls, work out the ankles.

There’s a different song every day. We do “One Foot in Front of the Other” by Walk the Moon a lot. We do ‘I’m Blue Da Ba Dee Da Ba Die’ a lot. We do ‘I Want to Dance with Somebody’ a lot.”

CASUAL FINE DINING WITH

April 25-May 1, 2018

of getting a goofy name, I like that better.

I’m a merchant marine, so I work on big container ships and oil tankers all over the world. It’s good because it allows me to do things like this. I’ll be out on the water for four months straight and then get months off at a time. It doesn’t exactly lead to a stable life, but as far as taking a whole summer off to hike the A.T., it works out perfect.”

designed to include business and pleasure.

Participants will work up a sweat getting to the campsite and then put up their boots to enjoy a gourmet meal. n During the “A Boat, Boots and Backpacking” trip, the group will take a boat at 8 a.m. Friday, Sept. 7, from Fontana Marina and embark on a two-day, threenight trip to one of the park’s most remote locations — complete with gourmet meals prepared by the guide.

All trips organized by the Great Smoky Mountains Association, with proceeds benefiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Fees vary. Pre-registration form required to join these moderate to strenuous events. www.smokiesinformation.org/info/bac kpacking-2018 or 865.436.7318, ext. 349.

outdoors

Several facilities in the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest will see closures over the coming months. n The Moss Knob Shooting Range will be closed Monday through Friday until midJuly for hazardous tree removal and salvage timber operations resulting from the wildfires of fall 2016. n Winding Stairs Road will be closed indefinitely to vehicles due to a hole in the pavement, though it will remain open for hikers. n Deep Gap Road on the Tusquitee and Nantahala ranger districts will be closed to vehicles daily until 5 p.m. through May 4, but will remain open to hikers.

Backpack the Smokies

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outdoors

WNC tackles cross-state run and cancer simultaneously Black Mountain resident Kenny Capps is in the midst of a cross-state run that he’s undertaking while also battling an incurable blood cancer, multiple myeloma.

Capps started running the Mountains-

Kenny Capps. Donated photo

April 25-May 1, 2018

to-Sea Trail on April 2, beginning on the coast in Kill Devil Hills, and plans to reach Clingmans Dome by May 24. He hopes his run will raise substantial funds toward a cure for multiple myeloma through the organization he founded, Throwing Bones for a Cure, Inc. Capps also wants his organization to encourage patients to stay

active after a diagnosis and to assist patients and their families with short-term financial and logistical needs.

Self-described as a runner of average ability, Capps, 46, is a father of three and was diagnosed in January 2015, forced to stop running later that year due to a large bone lesion in his left hip. He underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy and infusions, as well as a bone marrow transplant, but did not achieve remission.

That’s when Capps went to his wife and proposed running 1,175 miles across the state.

He trained throughout 2017 and recruited others to join him for a day or week during his cross-state run.

“My goal is to show people battling this or any chronic disease that you have two choices; you can lay down and die or you can throw those bones and let them ride. I’m rolling,” Capps said.

He hopes to raise $117,500 during his run, or $100 per mile. He will run each mile in the name of someone who is battling or who has lost their life to the disease, which affects 30,000 new people each year.

Donate or find the running calendar at www.throwingbonesrun.org.

The sun rises over Cades Cove.

Chris Hatfield photo

Stay overnight at Cades Cove An overnight experience in Cades Cove will raise money for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park June 11 to 12.

The event will provide opportunity to explore one of the park’s most spectacular areas, with guided hikes to mountain vistas and waterfalls, overnight lodging in Townsend, Tennessee, a cocktail hour, an evening program about the park, meals and a meet-and-greet with National Park Service rangers.

Nature Center debuts Camping Day A day of camping-themed activities will come to the WNC Nature Center in Asheville 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5.

The kid-oriented event will include an interactive campsite, map and compass classes, a nature-themed scavenger hunt with prizes, classes on the dos and don’ts of camping in Western North Carolina and educational animal programs with the center’s otters, bears, owls and raccoon.

Included with WNC Nature Center admission. Overnight camping not included. Sponsored by Diamond Brand Outdoors and Frugal Backpacker. www.wildwnc.org/event.

Build with kudzu bales Smoky Mountain News

A series of garden-themed lectures will kick off with a presentation on building with kudzu bales, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 5, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

Naturalist, primitive technologist, permaculturist and educator Jeff Gottlieb will give the talk, discussing the studio he built using local natural materials — especially bales of kudzu hay and red clay. He’ll show

photos and samples to tell the story of this unique project.

The “In the Garden” series is sponsored by the Franklin Garden Club, the Macon County Master Gardeners Association and the Otto Garden Club. The series will include a spring, summer and fall lecture, with each speaker presenting on a unique area and theme that can be easily incorporated into the garden.

The next event is Saturday, July 28, with Highlands Biological Station Director Jim Costa discussing insects in the garden.

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Danny Bernstein and Steve Pierce, both of whom have hiked all 900 miles of trail in the park, will offer group hikes to Gregory Bald, Abrams Falls and the John Oliver Cabin on Rich Mountain Loop Trail. $350 per person or $500 per couple.

Organized by Friends of the Smokies.

Proceeds will help protect against invasive species, provide environmental education for kids and rehabilitate trails.

Register at hike.friendsofthesmokies.org.

The third annual Pisgah Pride Day will deploy volunteers who love the Pisgah National Forest to get to work Saturday, May 5, at the Pisgah Ranger Station in Brevard.

Tasks will include trail work, treating invasive species, picking up trash and raising a new Ranger Station sign. Groups will travel to various areas in the district to complete the work.

The event is sponsored by The Pisgah Conservancy, the U.S. Forest Service and a host of business and nonprofit partners. Volunteers must register in advance at www.pisgahconservancy.org/how-youcan-help/pisgah-pride-day.html.

Learn your birds

Bacck to a s ...

Basic

outdoors

Learn the basics of identifying neotropical songbirds during one of three upcoming workshops offered through Alarka Institute in Macon County.

These full-day workshops will be offered 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 3, Saturday, May 12, and Thursday, May 17, at Alarka Laurel — the namesake of the institute and one of co-founder Brent Martin’s favorite places.

Participants will learn basic songs of these songbirds that spend their winters down in the tropics and leave having mastered at least six of their choice. The trip will include an easy 5-mile walk through rare high-elevation spruce forest. $55. Space limited. Sign up at www.alarkaexpeditions.com/upcomingevents.

Bank king...

Yard sale will benefit community garden A two-day yard sale Friday, April 27, and Saturday, April 28, at the Maggie Valley United Methodist Church will raise money for Maggie Valley Community Gardens.

The yard sale will feature new and used items, with proceeds benefiting the group’s efforts to raise fresh, organic produce for charitable organizations in Haywood County. The sale will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 27 and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

April 28.

Barb Planchock, 828.400.3144.

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

Smoky Mountain News

A pair of upcoming events will wrap up Haywood Waterways Association’s April series of Earth Month activities. n During the “Food Forests and Edible Parks” program 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 26, at the Waynesville Public Library, participants will learn about an idea that protects stream banks from erosion while also providing food for communities. Presented by Haywood Waterways with partners HydroCycle Engineering and Ecosystem Services. n Learn everything there is to know about septic systems during a program noon to 2 p.m. Friday, April 27, at the Agricultural Services Center on Raccoon Road in Waynesville. Haywood Waterways and the Haywood County Health Department will cover how septic systems work, common problems and solutions, failure prevention and financial resources for homeowners experiencing problems.

Free. 828.476.4667 or info@haywoodwaterways.org.

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outdoors

Haywood students win Envirothon Tuscola High School students came in first place during the annual Area 1 Envirothon, held March 23 in Waynesville.

The Avians team celebrates its victory.

Donated photo

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

Envirothon is the nation’s largest high school environmental competition.

Sponsored by soil and water conservation districts, it revolves around five subject areas — aquatics, forestry, wildlife, land use and current environmental issues — with teams composed of up to five stu-

dents who compete in hands-on competitions for which they prepare months in advance.

The March 23 event included 58 teams from a district spanning 16 western counties — nearly 300 students. Of those 58 teams, 15 were from Haywood County.

Two teams from Tuscola made it to the top ten — the Avians came in first place and the Nudibranches ranked fourth. The Pisgah FFA team from Pisgah High School came in seventh. Other top 10 teams were from Buncombe, Transylvania and Madison counties. The Haywood teams will join 11 others representing Western North Carolina counties to compete at the state level.

Participants in The Avians were Adam Wampler, Jena Brown, Carter Huskison, Megan Planchock, Alea Boyd and advisor Suzanne Miller. Participants in The Nudibranches were Nina Dove, Jennifer McHenry, Virginia Fry, Rose Leek and advisor Suzanne Miller. Participants in the Pisgah FFA were Kaitlin Moore, Jacob Ashe, Isaac Wyatt, Jadyn Denty, Erica Ohliger and advisors Joshua Justice and Courtney Smith.

A variety of experts from state and federal agencies, as well as local organizations Haywood Waterways Association and Balsam Mountain Preserve, made the event possible.

{Celebrating the Southern Appalachians}

Report hellbender sightings If you’ve seen a hellbender, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission wants to know.

Biologists with the Commission are asking the public to report any sightings of the giant aquatic salamanders — which average 16 to 17 inches long — so they can learn more about where the hellbenders are located and how their populations are faring.

Hellbenders are found in fast-moving,

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clean mountain streams in Western North Carolina. Listed as a species of special concern, it’s illegal to take, possess, transport or sell a hellbender. Anybody who finds one is asked to leave it alone but to note the location — using a physical location or GPS coordinates — and to take a photo.

Contact Lori Williams at lori.williams@ncwildlife.org or call the Commission Wildlife Interaction Helpline at 866.3182401.

Get a boating certification A boating safety course will be offered 6 to 9 p.m. May 7-8 at Haywood Community College.

The boating certification will give participants a shot at a certification required to operate vessels propelled by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater. Participants must attend both sessions and pass a written exam. The free course is offered as a partnership between HCC and the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.

The boating course will also be offered June 5-6, July 9-10, Aug. 28-29 and Sept. 10-11.

Register at www.ncwildlife.org by selecting the “Learning” tab.

Stock the Pigeon

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Hellbender. NPS photo

Fish fans are invited to help the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and Trout Unlimited Cataloochee chapter stock the West Fork of the Pigeon River, 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 1.

Volunteers are invited to bring a clean 5gallon bucket and a friend to help stock around 1,500 pounds of fish.

Waders are also recommended. The job will take about three hours to complete, with at least 25 volunteers needed.

It’s the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s responsibility to stock the river, but having a volunteer force to help allows the fish to be dispersed more evenly along the river, resulting in a more enjoyable fishing experience.

The group will meet at a parking lot that’s past Lake Logan and before Sunburst Campground off of N.C. 215, across from

the shooting range. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a rod for fishing afterward.

Ron Gaddy, tucataloochee427@gmail.com.

Anglers wanted for survey Lapsed and active anglers alike are wanted to complete an online survey seeking opinions on fish attractors and aquatic vegetation.

The survey, organized by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the Southern Division of the American Fisheries Society, will help fisheries biologists gain valuable information to improve aquatic habitat enhancement programs in North Carolina reservoirs and across the Southeast.

The SDAFS’s Reservoir Technical Committee developed the survey, and committee members are interested in opinions from anglers who fish mainly reservoirs. It takes about 15 minutes to complete. www.surveymonkey.com/r/fishattractor.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • A “Bully to Buddy” community forum will be held from 6-8 p.m. on April 26 at the Tart Hall in Franklin.

256.398.0039 or www.carolynLhiggins.com/bully-tobuddy.

• Haywood Community College will hold a Spring Craft and Plant Sale on Friday, April 27 in Clyde. Craft sale is from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Creative Arts building; plant sale is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Nix Horticulture Complex. Preview of crafts sale and meet and greet is from 5-7 p.m. on April 26. Info: 627.4673 (craft sale); 627.4625 (plant sale).

• Oconaluftee Indian Village will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday from April 30 to Nov. 10. As you step into the Oconaluftee Indian Village, you’re transported back to witness the challenges of Cherokee life at a time of rapid cultural change. Tour guides help you explore the historic events and figures of the 1760’s. www.cherokeehistorical.org.

• “History of Main Street, Waynesville,” part of the “Haywood Ramblings series will be presented by Alex McKay at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 3 at Town Hall Board Room on Main Street. In case of snow, the event will be automatically rescheduled for the second Thursday of the month.

• The Haywood County Arts Council and local nonprofit REACH are co-sponsoring the June Exhibit. HCAC asks that interested artists select one piece to donate for this show — they are seeking variety and wide participation. Work themed around freedom and the arts are encouraged. All mediums are welcome for this exhibit.

Applications due April 30, downloaded from www.haywoodarts.org.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • A Wilderness First Responder course will be offered June 2-10 and June 30-July 8 by Landmark Learning in Cullowhee. Register: www.landmarklearning.edu.

• Community Choir will be offered from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesdays from April 25-June 13 at Haywood Community College in Clyde. Cost: $60. Info: 627.4669 or rgmassie@haywood.edu.

• Haywood Community College’s Small Business Center will hold a Professional Craft Artist Summit from 12:304:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 26, in the Creative Arts Building on the campus in Clyde. Networking reception from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Info: sbc.haywood.edu or kmgould@haywood.edu.

• Heritage Life Skills - a three-day convention teaching prepping and survival skills - will be held from April 27-29 at the Folkmoot Center in Waynesville. Wide variety of informational and hands-on courses. Cost: $150 or ($70 for ages 8-18) if you register by April 20.

Single-day admission is $60. Cost for ages 8-18 goes up to $75 after April 20. www.carolinareadiness.com.

• “Explore Maggie Valley,” a progressive open house event including 15 Maggie Valley businesses, will be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, April 28. Special offerings, discount and a passport. Completed passports get entered into grand prize drawing for items donated from participating businesses.

• A pair of School Safety Forums will be presented by Jackson County Public Schools: at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 30, and Monday, May 7, at Southwestern Community College’s Myers Auditorium in Sylva. cfields@jcpsmail.org, 586.2311, rensley@jcpsmail.org or 339.4235.

• Catamount School, a collaborative effort of Western Carolina University and Jackson County Public Schools, will hold an information session for parents at 6 p.m.

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. on Tuesday, May 1, in Room 24 of Catamount School at Smoky Mountain High School in Sylva. 227.7311.

• “Waning of Pax Americana?” – part of the “Discuss the World! Great Decisions series – will be held from 5:15-6:45 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, in the Waynesville Library Auditorium. Registration required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net. Questions: dem32415@aol.com.

• A Boating Safety Course will be offered from 6-9 p.m. on May 7-8 at the Haywood Community College campus, Building 3300, Room 3322. Must participate in both evenings. Preregistration required: www.ncwildlife.org.

• Registration is underway for a “WordPress Summit for the Small Business Owner” that will be offered by Haywood Community College’s Small Business Center on May 15 in Clyde. For info or to register: SBC.Haywood.edu or 627.4512.

• Registration is underway for the Spring Aging Conference that will be presented by the Southwestern Commission’s Area Agency on Aging from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 17, in the Burrell Building of Southwestern Community College in Sylva. 4 CEU’s offered. Fee: $25. Scholarships available: sarajane@regiona.org.

Smoky Mountain News

basket. Proceeds from the event will benefit Mountain Projects. Tickets are $40 each. WOW is also seeking business sponsors for the event. 550.9978.

• The Beaverdam Community Center of Canton will have a “Travis Stuart Benefit Breakfast & Yard Sale” from 8 a.m.-noon on May 5 at 1620 N. Canton Road in Canton. All proceeds will support additional cancer expenses not covered by insurance and loss of income.

Sausage biscuits and coffee.

• The Tuscola FFA Car, Truck Motorcycle and Tractor show is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on May 5 in the Tuscola High School parking lot. Lunch plates, 50-50 tickets, door prizes, vendors. $10 to enter vehicle into the contest.

VOLUNTEERS & VENDORS • Applications are being accepted for artist vendors for the Folkmoot Festival this summer. Applications are being accepted at folkmoot.org/applications through April 30. 100 applications will be accepted from vendors offering unique, handmade items. $25 fee. Info: 452.2997 or vendors@folkmoot.org.

HEALTH MATTERS • Sharing Solutions: A Haywood County Community Opioid Forum, is scheduled for 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 30, in Haywood Community College’s Main Auditorium.

• A meeting of current and former employees of the Waynesville plant of Champion/Blue Ridge/Evergreen is held at 8 a.m. on the first Monday of each month at Bojangles near Lake Junaluska’s entrance.

• A monthly health series on “Mind and Body: Health, Nutrition & You” continues with a presentation on “PTSD: Invisible Wounds, Visible Healing” at 6:30 p.m. on May 1 at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

586.2016.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS • The Maggie Valley Community Gardens will have a barn sale on Friday and Saturday, April 27-28, at the Maggie Valley United Methodist Church. Sale is from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Friday and from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday. Info: 400.3144.

• MemoryCare will offer a Family Caregiver College from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesdays from May 1-June 5 at Maple Leaf Adult Day, 63 Elmood Way, in Waynesville. Overview of dementia, transitioning from independence to interdependence and more. $85 payable at first session.

Register: 771.2219. www.memorycare.org.

• The Community Table’s annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser is scheduled for 4-8 p.m. on Friday, April 27, next to the Sylva Pool on Central Street in Sylva. $20 donation includes a handmade bowl donated by a local potter; soup and dessert. https://tinyurl.com/yaup9ou3.

• A Plantar Fasciitis Pain Clinic is scheduled for 2-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the Waynesville Yoga Center. Learn how to minimize pain, relieve the condition and maintain the health of your feet. 246.6570 or WaynesvilleYogaCenter.com.

• The Community Table has a Blue Plate Special fundraiser from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month from January through October in Sylva. $7 minimum donation; dine-in or carry-out. 586.6782.

• Registration is underway for affordable health screenings that will be offered on May 22 at LifeWay Community Church in Sylva. Screenings check for plaque buildup in arteries, HDL and LDL cholesterol levels, diabetes risk, bone density, kidney and thyroid function and more. Packages start at $149; payment and other options available. 877.237.1287 or www.lifelinescreening.com.

• Haywood Community College’s Wildlife Club will hold its fifth annual Fish Fest Youth Fishing Clinic, Fish Fry and Fishing Tournament on Saturday, April 28. Clinic is from 1-4 p.m.; Fish Fry and tournament are from 4-6 p.m. Tournament: $8. Fish Fry: $8. Proceeds benefit the HCC Wildlife Club. 627.4560 or jcarver@haywood.edu.

• The second annual Joey Parker Memorial Ride will be held on Saturday, April 28, in memory of the late Mayor of the River Valley Campground. $20. Drivers must be at least 16. Riders under 12 are free. Register at www.joeyparkermemorial.com or on-site at the Cherokee Expo Center beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the ride.

• United Christian Ministries will have a fundraiser from 5 p.m.-closing on April 30 at El Patron Restaurant in Sylva. Ten percent of proceeds go to UCM to help Jackson County families in need.

• Women of Waynesville, a nonprofit organization that supports the needs of women and children in Haywood County, will present the second annual Kentucky Derby Gala from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at The Maggie Valley Club.Guests should come dressed in their best derby attire to participate in the Best Hat and Best Bowtie contests for a chance to win an amazing gift

• Codependents Anonymous meets at 5:30 p.m. on Fridays at the Friendship House on Academy Street in Waynesville. Group of people desiring healthy and fulfilling relationships. 775.2782 or www.coda.org.

• Community First Aid and CPR classes are offered from 6-10 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at Haywood Community College in Clyde. Info: 564.5133 or HCC-CPRraining@haywood.edu.

• A support group for persons with Multiple Sclerosis as well as family, friends and caregivers meets at 6:45 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month in the conference room of the Jackson county Public Library in Sylva.

293.2503.

• A grief support group, GriefShare, will be held from 67:30 p.m. on Wednesdays through May 23 at First Alliance Church in Franklin. Topics include grief’s challenges, guilt, anger, relationships with others, being stuck and what to live for now. $15 cost covers materials; scholarships available. Register: www.franklinc-

45

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 ma.com. Info: 369.7977, 200.5166, scott@franklincma.com or www.griefshare.org.

• Nutrition counseling and diabetes education are offered through Macon County Public Health in Franklin.

349.2455.

• Western Carolina University’s student-run, Mountain Area Pro Bono Physical Therapy Clinic will be open from 6-8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays of each month.

227.3527.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) holds a support group for family, friends, and those dealing with mental illness on the 1st Thursday of each month in the 2nd floor classroom at Haywood Regional Medical Center at 6:30 p.m.

• HIV and syphilis testing will is offered during normal business hours at Jackson County Health Department.

• A support group for anyone with MS, family & friends meets monthly at 6:45 p.m. on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the conference room of Jackson Co. Library in Sylva. No Fee, sponsored by National MS Society. Local contact: Gordon Gaebel 828-293-2503.

• “Laughing Balsam Sangha,” a meeting for Mindfullness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, meets will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Mondays at 318 Skyland Drive in Sylva. Included are sitting and walking meditation, and Dharma discussion. Free admission.

335.8210, and “Like” them on Facebook.

• A “Walk With A Doc” program is scheduled for 10 a.m. each Saturday at the Lake Junaluska Kern Center or Canton Rec Park.

MyHaywoodRegional.com/WalkwithaDoc. • Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families (ACA) meets at noon on Saturdays at the First United Methodist Church Outreach Center at 171 Main St. in Franklin. 407.758.6433 or adultchildren.org.

• The Haywood County Health & Human Services Public Health Services Division is offering a Night Clinic from 4-6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of every month in Waynesville. Services include family planning, immunizations, pregnancy testing, STD testing and treatment. Appointments: 452.6675.

• The Jackson County Department of Public Health will offer a general clinic from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 587.8225.

• A Food Addicts Anonymous Twelve-Step fellowship group meets at 5:30 p.m. on Mondays at Grace Church in the Mountains in Waynesville. www.foodaddictsanonymous.org.

• 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.

wnc calendar

App Development Summer Camp at Asheville School Asheville School is offering a unique app camp experience for teens from across the U.S. and abroad who are interested in learning how to make apps for the iPhone, iPad, and even Apple TV. Campers will spend the week learning Apple’s Swift programming language and discovering what it takes to produce apps and games for the Apple App Store.

Ages 13-18 • Overnight/Day Skill Level: Beginner - Intermediate Week One: July 8 - 13 Week Two: July 15 - 20 Early Bird discounts are available for a limited time.

The camp is located on the campus of Asheville School, a nationally acclaimed co-ed boarding and day school for students in grades 9 through 12.

Smoky Mountain News

April 25-May 1, 2018

Register today at ashevilleschool.org/appdevcamp • 828.254.6345 ext. 4042 • appdevcamp@ashevilleschool.org

Camp Hobbit Hill DkZgc^\]i <^gah¸ 8Vbe y Coed Day Camp* Air-conditioned Dorms y Flexible Nutrition Custom Schedules y Arts & Pottery Horses & Trails y Day Trips y Games y Yoga Color Wars & Much More!

Ages 7-17

The fun never stops! Contact us today! *Coed Day Camp July 1-28 only

www.CampHobbitHill.com 223 Cody Embler Road y Alexander, NC 28701

828-808-7929 46

Join us this Summer!

Summer Camps in WNC

• Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center. Summer enrichment camp. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

June 18 through Aug. 17. Offered for nine weeks.

Financial scholarships available. 828.452.7232.

• SOAR Summer Adventure Camp. Sessions start June 9 through Aug. 5. Tuition ranges from $3,100 to $4,700 depending on the program. www.soarnc.org or 828.456.3435.

• Smoky Mountain Aquatic Club. Summer Camp. Ages 6-17. Practices are held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays beginning at 6:15 p.m. and on Saturdays beginning at 8:30 a.m., all at the Waynesville Recreation Center. www.smacwswimming.com.

• Smoky Mountain Sk8way. Eight-week day camp from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. June 18 through Aug. 10. Ages 614. $140 a week. 828.246.9124. Enrollment form at www.SmokyMountainSk8way.com.

• Radical Inclusion Summer Day Camp. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 6-10. Wilderness survival, environmental stewardship, social justice. Youth 13-17. Cost is a sliding scale. Financial assistance is available.

828.476.1465 or radicalinclusionwnc@gmail.com.

• Variety of sports camps at Waynesville Recreation Center. Call 828.456.2030 or email tpetrea@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Youth for Christ Outdoor Mission Camp in Maggie Valley. Sessions start June 25 through July 16. Cost ranges $150 to $700. www.outdoormissioncamp.org or 828.926.3252.

• Camp Folkmoot Summer Day Camp. Friday, July 20.

Dancers of all abilities ages 10-17. Learn basic concepts and movements, gain an appreciation of the similarities and differences between cultures.

Snacks, lunch, and drinks provided. $30 per camper.

Register at Folkmoot.org or by calling 828.452.2997.

• Camp Henry at Lake Logan. Sessions June 20 through July 22. Cost ranges from $315 to $1,250 for different camps. www.camphenry.net or 828.475.9264.

• Fearless Athletics Day Camp. Sessions from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. June 18 through Aug. 17 at 123 Park St., Canton. $150 a week. Before and aftercare available.

828.492.1494.

MACON • New Visions Gymnastics. 13-week summer day camp from May 29 through Aug. 24. $145 a week. Ages 312. www.newvisiontrainingcenter.com or 828.524.1904.

• Macon County Schools Summer Edventure Camp. 8week day camp. Call Lenora Clifton at 828.524.4414, Ext. 324 or visit www.macon.k12.nc.us/sec/.

• Bascom Art Center in Highlands. Summer art camp for ages 7-14. Sessions begin June 19 through Aug. 14. $175 a week. www.thebascom.org or 828.526.4949.

• Danny Antoine’s Martial Arts & Fitness Academy. May 29-Aug. 24. $135 a week. Call 828.332.0418.

• Nantahala Learning Center Summer Program. Call 219.689.3443 for more info.

• Boys and Girls Club in Cashiers Summer Camp. 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. June 11-Aug. 3. $400. info@bgcplateau.org or 828.743.2775.

SWAIN • YMCA Camp Watia. Weeklong sessions from June 10July 29. Limited space still available. $598-$650.

Financial assistance available. www.ymcacampwatia.org.

• Nantahala Outdoor Center. Whitewater kayaking camp. $399 to $1,500 for two-, three-, and five-day camps. 828.785.4977 or www.noc.com/lessons-training/paddling-school/kids-kayaking-camp.

• Camp Living Water Christian camp. Sessions start July 1. $160-$490. www.camplivingwater.com or 828.488.6012.

• Swain County Middle Schools STEM Camp. Third

CHEROKEE • Cherokee Youth Center (Boys and Girls Club). Email Patrick West at pwest9557@yahoo.com or call 828.497-3119.

JACKSON COUNTY • Western Carolina University Elite Football Camp.

June 1, June 23 or July 21. WCU campus. $40; rising ninth through 12th-graders. www.loffootballcamp.com.

• WCU Hawg Camp. June 22-23. WCU campus. $200; rising ninth through 12th-graders. www.loffootballcamp.com.

• Karen Glover Volleyball Camp Skills Camp. July 2324. WCU campus. $200; rising sixth through eighthgraders. www.karenglovervbcamps.com.

• Karen Glover Volleyball Camp Elite Camp. July 24-26.

WCU campus. $325; rising ninth through 12thgraders. www.karenglovervbcamps.com.

• WCU Summer Swim Programs. Various dates. WCU campus. $45-74; all ages. bit.ly/2HCnHdg. • Live Your Legacy Girls Leadership Camp. June 17-23.

WCU campus. Rising 10th-graders through college freshmen. ibmee.org/live-your-legacy-camp.

• Carolina Saxophone Camp. June 24-29. WCU campus. $499; high school and undergraduate saophonists. Ian Jeffress, jeffress@wcu.edu.

• Rocket to Creativity Camp. June 25-29. WCU campus. $140; ages 8-12. bit.ly/2qzUQ1E. • Robotics with Legos Camp. June 25-29. WCU campus. $119. bit.ly/2qAKYUQ. • Summer Symposium for Marching Arts. July 8-12.

WCU campus. www.prideofthemountains.com.

• Summer Reading Adventures. July 9-13. WCU campus. $139; rising first and second-graders. bit.ly/2qD7ixR. • Step Back in Time Summer Day Camp. July 31 to Aug. 3. WCU campus. $99. Ages 9-11. bit.ly/2H0ZYCf.

• SOAR Llama Trek Camp. June 9-20, June 23 to July 4, July 7-18, July 21 to Aug. 1, Aug. 4-15. Balsam. $3,100-$3,300; ages 8-10. www.soarnc.org.

• SOAR Backpacking Camp. June 10-21, June 24 to July 5, July 8-19, July 22 to Aug. 2, Aug. 5-16. Balsam. $3,100-$3,300; ages 11-18. www.soarnc.org.

• SOAR Canoeing Camp. June 10-21, June 24 to July 5, July 8-19, July 22 to Aug. 2, Aug. 5-16. Balsam. $3,100-$3,300; ages 11-18. www.soarnc.org.

• SOAR Horseback Riding Camp. June 10-21, June 24 to July 5, July 8-19, July 22 to Aug. 2, Aug. 5-16.

Balsam. $3,100-$3,300; ages 11-18. www.soarnc.org.

• SOAR Expedition Camp. June 13-30; July 4-21; July 25 to Aug. 11. Balsam. $4,300; ages 13-18. www.soarnc.org.

• SOAR Academic Discovery Camp. June 11 to July 6; July 11 to Aug. 5. Balsam. $5,300. Ages 11-18. www.soarnc.org.

• Jackson County Fun for Kids Day Camp. June 4 to Aug. 3. Cashiers. $700; ages 6-12. jcprd.recdesk.com. 828.631.2020.

• Jackson County Adventure Camp. July 16-20, Aug. 13-15. Cullowhee. $200; ages 13-15. jcprd.recdesk.com. 828.200.3345.

• Jackson County Explorer Camp. June 11-15; July 30 to Aug. 3. Cullowhee. $175; ages 9-12. jcprd.recdesk.com. 828.200.3345.

ASHEVILLE • Camp Hobbit Hill. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sleepover and day camp sessions available in June, July and August.

Agues 7-17. www.camphobbithill.com or 828.808.7929.

• Asheville School App Development Camp. $1,850 a week for overnight, $550 a week for day camp. July 816. www.ashevilleschool.org/appdevcamp • UNCA Summer Writing Program. For grades 6-12. $265. Week-long sessions in June and July.

828.251.6099 or jdolfi@unca.edu.

July 8- July 14

A residential camp for rising grades 6 to

A residential camp for rising grades

8 at Mars Hill University in North

9 to 12 at Mars Hill University in

Carolina, this program offers an exciting

North Carolina, this program offers

opportunity for campers to experience

an exciting opportunity for campers

hands on science labs, intensive art

to experience hands on science labs,

classes, and Socratic discussions. Tuition

intensive art classes, and Socratic

is $750.

discussions. Tuition is $810.

Smoky Mountain News

AICL's Week Zero

July 1- July 6

April 25-May 1, 2018

APPALACHIAN INSTITUTE FOR CREATIVE LEARNING

AICL's T Minus 1: Blastoff to Adventure!

wnc calendar

HAYWOOD

through ninth graders. Register by May 15 at www.swain.k12.nc.us/middle/2018/03/19/stemcamp-registration-is-open/

1-800-951-7442 aiclsummercamp@gmail.com www.appalachianinstitute.org 47

wnc calendar

yoga classes from 9-9:55 a.m. on Wednesdays through March: Gentle Flow with Candra and Gentle Vin Yin with Jamie. 944.0288 or maggievalleywellness.com.

from 7:45-9 a.m. on Monday through Friday unless the facility is booked till spring. 648.2363. parks@cantonnc.com.

• Dogwood Insight Center presents health talks at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month.

• Line dance lessons will be offered from 7-8 p.m. every other Tuesday in Waynesville. $10 per class.

Modern/traditional line dancing. 734.0873 or kimcampbellross@gmail.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.

• 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.

• A wide variety of yoga classes are offered daily through the Waynesville Yoga Center. For updated, current listings, visit: http://waynesvilleyogacenter.com/class-schedule.

• 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.

• Pickleball, a cross between tennis, badminton and ping-pong, will be offered from 9 a.m.-noon on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Old Hazelwood Gym in Waynesville. $3 per visit, or $20 for a 10-visit card.

452.6789 or iansmith@haywoodcountync.gov.

• A support group meeting for those with Parkinsons Disease and their caregivers will be held at 2 p.m. on the last Wednesday of the month at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2800.

• 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 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.

April 25-May 1, 2018

RECREATION AND FITNESS • Jackson County Outdoor Recreation will offer Canoeing at Bear Creek Lake for ages 8-up from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on April 28. Cost: $40 adults; $20 youth.

293.3053 or rec.jacksonnc.org.

• Registration is underway for a course in Women’s Police Judo Tactics that will be offered for ages 15-up from noon-1:15 p.m. on Saturdays, April 28-May 19, at the Waynesville Recreation Center. $60 per person. waynesvillejudo@gmail.com.

• Pickleball is offered from 9 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the Old Armory in Waynesville. 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

Smoky Mountain News

• The Safekids USA/Blue Dragon Taekwondo School is offering self-defense classes from 9-10 a.m. on Saturdays. $5 per class. For females 14-older. Classes are at 93 Jones Cove Road in Clyde.

• Yoga classes designed specifically for those who have experienced trauma are being offered at the Fitness Connection in Waynesville. www.sonshineyoga.com.

• ZUMBA! Classes, are offered from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesdays, at the Canton Armory. $5 per class.

648.2363 or parks@cantonnc.com.

• 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.

• Ultimate Frisbee games are held from 5:30-8 p.m. on Mondays at the Cullowhee Recreation Park. Organized

by Jackson County Parks & Recreation. Pick-up style.

293.2053 or www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• The Wednesday Croquet Group meets from 10 a.m.noon at the Vance Street Park across from the shelter.

For senior players ages 55 or older. 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Pickleball is from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday nights at First Methodist Church in Sylva. $1 each time you play; equipment provided. 293.3053.

• Cardio Lunch class will meet from noon-1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 16 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members.

456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Flexible Fitness class will meet from 4:30-5:15 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 16 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members. 456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Karaoke is happening at 8 p.m. on Saturdays at Harmon’s Den Bistro at HART Theatre in Waynesville.

• Pump It Up class will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 16 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members. 456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• The Maggie Valley Wellness Center is offering two

• The Canton Armory is open to the public for walking

Puzzles can be found on page 54.

SPIRITUAL • First United Methodist Church will have a combined worship service (contemporary and traditional) at 10 a.m. on Sunday, April 29, in Sylva. 586.2358.

POLITICAL • N.C. Rep. Mike Clampitt will hold a town hall from 45:45 p.m. on Friday, April 27, at the Haywood County Library Auditorium.

• The Haywood County NAACP meets at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, at Jones Temple AME Zion, 35 Thomas Park Drive, in Waynesville. Planning for the future.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES • The Waynesville Recreation Center will offer additional courts for pickleball for seniors from 7 a.m.-noon on Mondays through Fridays. For ages 60-up. Free for members; $3 for nonmembers. 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• The Mexican Train Dominoes Group seeks new players to join games at 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2800.

• A Silver Sneakers Cardio Fit class will meet from 1011 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Haywood County Senior Recreation Center. For ages 60 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

• Book Club is held at 2 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800

AUTHORS AND BOOKS • “Books and Bites: Author Talk with Kristy Harvey” is set for noon on Thursday, April 26, at the Macon County Public Library Living Room in Franklin. Harvey will read selections from her books including her latest novel, “Slightly South of Simple.” 524.3600.

• Senior croquet for ages 55 and older is offered from 9-11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Vance Street Park in front of Waynesville Recreation Center.

Free. For info, contact Donald Hummel at 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• “Poem In Your Pocket Day” is Saturday, April 26.

Share a favorite poem with others. Free poems will be handed out every day until April 26 at Wall Street Books and Blue Ridge Books. #poeminyourpocketday.

• A Hand & Foot card game is held at 1 p.m. on Thursdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

• “Poetry Pickin’s by Elisha Minter” will be offered at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 26, in the Macon County Public Library meeting room in Franklin. 524.3600.

• A book release event of “NOC Stories” will be held at 4:30 p.m. on April 28 at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Book describes the center’s history focusing on the first 25 years. More info: https://tinyurl.com/ybz9kp4c.

• Writer Jennifer McGaha will read from her latest work Flat Broke with Two Goats at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville. www.jennifermcgaha.com.

• The annual “Teen Poetry Night,” an open-mic event for high school-age poets and poetry lovers, will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, April 30, at The Rathskeller Coffee Haus in Franklin. 524.ARTS or arts4all@dnet.net.

• Author Wiley Cash will be guest speaker at the Friends of the Library’s Annual Meeting, which is set for 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 3, at the First United Methodist Church’s Christian Growth Center in Waynesville. Tickets: $10. Tickets available at Blue Ridge Books in Hazelwood; the Waynesville and Canton libraries and from Friends of the Library Board members.

• Senior Sale Day is on the third Friday of every month at the Friends of the Library Used Bookstore. Patrons 60 and older get 20 percent off all purchases. Proceeds benefit the Sylva Library.

• Pinochle game is played at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

• Mah Jongg is played at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2800.

• A Canasta card game is set for 1 p.m. on Mondays at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

• A Parkinson’s Support Group is held at 2 p.m. on the last Wednesdays of each month at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

KIDS & FAMILIES • A girls volleyball academy will be offered for grades 3-8 on Tuesdays and Sundays from through May 29 at the Waynesville Recreation Center. $5 per session for third through fifth grades. $10 for sixth through eighth grades on Tuesday; $5 on Sundays. Instructor is Tuscola High volleyball coach Pam Bryant. 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

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• A celebration of the late poet Nancy Simpson is scheduled for 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown. RSVP: 389.3733.

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• Camping Day is scheduled for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the WNC Nature Center. Campingthemed activities for families. www.wildwnc.org/event.

KIDS FILMS • “Avengers: Infinity War” will be showing at 7 p.m. on April 26-28, 1 p.m., 4 p.m. 10 p.m. on April 28, 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. on April 29, and 7 p.m. on April 29-May 3 at The Strand on Main in Waynesville. Check website for tickets, 38main.com.

• Toddlers Rock, Mondays, 10 a.m., Macon Public Library. Music, movement and instruments (Designed for children 0-24 months, but all ages are welcome).

• Family Story Time is held at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

524.3600.

• Family Story Time for ages 0 to 7 years is held at 10 a.m. on Thursdays at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. 524.3600.

• Paws 4 Reading, a family story time, will be held from 3:30-5:30 p.m. every Tuesday at Hudson Library in Highlands. Children (grades K-6) practice early reading skills by reading to a canine companion. Info: www.fontanalib.org, www.readingpaws.org or 526.3031.

• “The Greatest Showman” will be shown at 6:30 p.m. on April 27 at the Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva.

Free. 586.2016.

A&E

• “Paddington 2” will be shown at 6:30 p.m. on April 28 and 7 p.m. on May 5 at the Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva. Free. 586.2016.

• “Jumanji” will be shown at 7:30 p.m. on May 3 at the Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva. Free. 586.2016.

• “Peter Rabbit” will be shown at 6:30 p.m. on May 4 and May 11 at the Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva.

Free. 586.2016.

KIDS STORY TIMES HAYWOOD • Mother Goose Time, a story time for babies and toddlers (5 months to 2 years) and their parents/caregivers, is held at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays at the Waynesville Library. 452.5169 • Family Story Time, 11 a.m. Wednesdays at the Waynesville Public Library. Stories, songs, crafts.

452.5169.

• Family storytime with crafts, second Saturday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Waynesville library. 4525169.

• Family story time for ages zero to six years old is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. each Tuesday at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

JACKSON • Baby Storytime is at 11 a.m. on Thursdays at the Jackson County Public Library. Songs, fingerplays and stories for infants through toddlers. 586.2016 • Kid’s story time Saturdays, 11 a.m., all ages at City Lights in Sylva 586.9449.

• Pre-school story time, second Wednesday, 11 a.m. at Cashiers Community Library. 743.0215.

• Rock and Read storytime, 11 a.m. on Tuesdays at the Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016

SWAIN

• Franklin Trail Day is scheduled to start at 11 a.m. on April 28 hosted by Outdoor 76 in Franklin. Beer, bluegrass and barbecue. Food and beer purchased benefits Mainspring Conservation Trust (www.mainspringconserves.org). 349.7676.

• 21st annual Greening Up the Mountains is scheduled for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, April 28. www.greeningupthemountains.com. 554.1035 or greeningupthemountains@gmail.com.

• Art After Dark 2018 season will kickoff from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 4, in downtown Waynesville.

FOOD & DRINK • Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville will be hosting a six-session class and wine tasting dedicated to “Exploring the World of Wine with Pete Ricci.”

All classes run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Mondays.

Classes are $49 each or $245 to attend all six.

Participants will taste six to eight wines in each session. First session was April 23. For more information and/or to register, click on www.waynesvillewine.com.

ON STAGE & IN CONCERT • A high-energy musical group including four stars from the original cast of Broadway’s “Jersey Boys,” The Midtown Men will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

Tickets start at $33 each. To purchase tickets, visit www.greatmountainmusic.com or call 866.273.4615.

• A “Big Band Concert” featuring the Tuscola High School Jazz Band and the Blue Ridge Big Band is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on April 28 at Tuscola High School’s auditorium. 452.0593, info@haywoodarts.org or HaywoodArts.org.

• The Highlands Performing Arts Center will screen the MET Opera’s “Cendrillon” by Massenet at 12:55 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, in Highlands. Tickets: highlandspac.org, at the door or 526.9047.

MACON

• Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, which has been voted best new family show and is led by Las Vegas “Entertainer of the Year” Gregory Popovich, will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

Tickets start at $18 per person. www.greatmountainmusic.com or call 866.273.4615.

• Paws 4 Reading, a family story time, will be held from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. second Thursday of the month at Macon County Public Library. Children can read to a therapy dog. (grades K-6). 524.3600.

• Tickets are on sale now for “The Cirque,” which will offer performances at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1, at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. Sphere of Fear, Triple Wheel of Death,

• Preschool Story time, Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Marianna Black Library. After a book or two is read, the children participate in games, songs, finger plays, puppet play and make a craft to take home.

488.3030.

Smoky Mountain News

• Kids story time, Fridays 11 a.m., Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. at Jackson County Public Library. Story time includes books, puppets, finger plays, songs and crafts. 586.2016.

FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

April 25-May 1, 2018

• Movers and Shakers story time is at 11 a.m. every Thursday at the Waynesville Library. For all ages.

Movement, books, songs and more. 452.5169.

wnc calendar

• The Arts Council of Macon County will accept applications through May 1 for its annual $1000 Arts Scholarship. Macon County residents of all ages wishing to pursue a college degree in the performing, literary, visual/graphic arts or arts education may apply. www.artscouncilofmacon.org. 524.ARTS or arts4all@dnet.net.

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wnc calendar

Human Slingshot, juggler and more. Tickets start at $12.50 (for first 100 adult tickets) at www.TheCirque.com.

• The Haywood Community Chorus will present Dan Forrest’s “Lux: The Dawn from on High” at 4 p.m.

Sunday, May 6, at the Waynesville First Methodist Church. Admission is free; a love offering will be taken.

• Country legend Tanya Tucker will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Tickets start at $28. www.greatmountainmusic.com.

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • The Jackson County Public Library will offer an online library resources class at 5:45 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, in the computer lab in Sylva. Register: 586.2016.

• “Paint Nite Waynesville” will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursdays (April 26, May 3 and 17) at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville. There will also be a special Mother’s Day paint event at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 13.

Sign up for either event on the Paint Night Waynesville Facebook page or call Robin Arramae at 400.9560. paintnitewaynesville@gmail.com.

• “The Ecology of Home” – a weekend writer’s retreat with Janisse Ray – will be offered April 27-29 by Alarka Institute. Cost: $225; includes Saturday and lunch and happy hour on Friday and Saturday. Register: www.paypal.me/cedartree. Info: alarkaexpeditions@gmail.com, 371.0347 or alarkaexpeditions.com.

• A Rock Painting Party is scheduled for 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Part of the Kindness Rocks Project. www.greamountainmusic.com.

April 25-May 1, 2018

• The Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild Co-President Suzanne Wingett will demonstrate the one-block-wonder technique in preparation on April 28 at the Tartan Hall in Franklin. For more information about the guild and the upcoming workshops, visit www.smokymtnquilters.org.

• A class on “Sustainable Cloth: Natural Dyes for Textile Artists” will be offered from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on April 28-29 at Haywood Community College in Clyde.

Learn how to incorporate sustainable color into fiber art. Cost: $186. Info: 627.4669 or rgmassie@haywood.edu.

• Registration is underway for a “Warhammer Class” that will be led by Brock Martin of WarFire Forge from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on May 26-27 at Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Cost: $400; materials included. Preregistration required: 631.0271. Info: www.JCGEP.org.

Smoky Mountain News

• Registration is underway for a “Kukri Making Class” that will be led by Brock Martin of WarFire Forge from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on May 12-13 at Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Cost: $400; materials included. Preregistration required: 631.0271. Info: www.JCGEP.org.

• Registration is underway for an “Axe-Making Class” that will be led by Brock Martin of WarFire Forge from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on June 9-10 at Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Cost: $380; materials included. Preregistration required: 631.0271. Info: www.JCGEP.org.

• Registration is underway for a “Beginning Bladesmithing Class” that will be led by Brock Martin of WarFire Forge from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on June 23-24 at Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Cost: $300; materials included. Preregistration required: 631.0271. Info: www.JCGEP.org.

ART SHOWINGS AND GALLERIES • The REACH “Jeans for Justice” exhibit is on display through April 30 at the Western Carolina University’s 50 University Center in Cullowhee. 369.5544 or 586.8969.

• Gallery 1 Sylva will celebrate the work and collection of co-founder Dr. Perry Kelly with a show of his personal work at the Jackson County Public Library Rotunda and his art collection at the gallery. All work is for sale. Admission is free. Children are welcome. Gallery 1 has regular winter hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Wednesday and Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. art@gallery1sylva.com.

• The Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at Bardo Arts Center is pleased to present, “LINING: SHEATHING” through May 4 in Cullowhee. “LINING: SHEATHING” is a large-scale installation about the tactile and protective qualities of textiles by collaborators Denise Bookwalter and Lee Emma Running. The WCU Fine Art Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Thursday. Museum exhibitions and receptions are free and open to the public. jilljacobs@wcu.edu or 227.2505.

• The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is excited to announce that the “Watercolor & Wax” exhibit will run through April 28, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit features eight local artists, including Barbara Brook, Melba Cooper, Mary Decker, Joan Doyle, Jo Ridge Kelley, Chelsea Summers, Ann Vasilik and Maureen Simon.

Visit the Haywood County Arts Council at 86 North Main Street in Waynesville to view the variety of art for sale. www.haywoodarts.org.

• During the month of April, Uptown Gallery in Franklin will be hosting an exhibit of artwork created by the senior artists from The Crawford Senior Center.

• A “Creations in Oil & Handcrafted Mugs” exhibit will be on display from May 4-26 at the Haywood County Arts Council in Waynesville. Opening reception at Art After Dark. HaywoodArts.org.

FILM & SCREEN • A new movie will be shown at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, in the Macon County Public Library meeting room in Franklin. Starring Markees Christmas and Craig Robinson, movie is about a young teenager who moves to Germany with his widower father. Rated R; 1:31. Info, including movie title: 524.3600.

• “A Quiet Place” is showing at 7 p.m. April 25-26 at The Strand on Main in Waynesville. See website for tickets, 38main.cc.

• A holistic workshop titled “Architect of the Divine: A Journey Into the Heart” with Maura Finn is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 26, in the conference room of the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

Register: 586.2016.

• “Molly’s Game” will be shown at 7:30 p.m. on April 26 at the Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva. Free.

586.2016.

• Films created by Western Carolina University students will be screened at the annual Controlled Chaos Film Festival at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center in Cullowhee.

Tickets are $15 for seniors and WCU faculty/staff, and $20 for adults. Proceeds and donations benefit the Motion Picture Student Project Fund bardoartscenter.wcu.edu or 227.7491.

Outdoors • Haywood Waterways Association will have several events to celebrate Earth Month from April 26-27: Food Forests and Edible Parks is from 12:30-1:30 p.m. on April 26 at the Waynesville Public Library Auditorium (RSVP: 476.4668 or info@haywoodwaterways.org); Rain Barrel Construction Workshop is from 7-8:30 p.m. on April 26 at the Agricultural Service Center in Waynesville (RSVP: 476.4667 or info@haywoodwater-

ways.org); and All About Septic Systems on April 27 at a site to be determined (RSVP: 476.4667 or info@haywoodwaterways.org).

• Carolina Mountain Club will hold its Mountain Treasures Camporee from April 27-29 at Kuykendall Campground between Brevard and Rosman. $10 per person for two nights. 230.4883 or Kathleen.hannigan@duke-energy.com.

• A ride for cyclists at the intermediate level and above will be offered at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, with starting points alternating between the Waynesville Recreation Center and the Canton Recreation Park. The season starts April 27 with a ride leaving from Waynesville. Cyclists regroup as necessary and typically cover about 20 miles over the course of an hour and a half. Bob Clark, bobclarklaw@gmail.com.

• The Nantahala Outdoor Center will host its spring fling event on April 28. Activities and competitions. https://tinyurl.com/y6vt2tu4.

• A day of canoeing will be offered from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, at Bear Creek Lake in Jackson County. Children under 18 must be accompanied by adult. $40 for adults; $20 for youth. Register: www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• Guided walks showcasing the history of beavers, their wetland-creating activities and changing habitats will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, at the Cradle of Forestry in America near Brevard. $6 for ages 13-up; $3 for ages 4-12. Info: 877.3130.

• A guided walk entited “Bogs, Bugs and Beavers” will be offered from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, April 28, at the Cradle of Forestry near Brevard. Register and get more info: https://cradleofforestry.com/event/bogsbugs-beavers.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park is recruiting volunteers to assist the Trails Forever trail crew for a rehabilitation project on the Rainbow Falls Trail from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. every Wednesday starting in May. Sign up or get more info: 497.1949, Adam_Monroe@nps.gov or https://friendsofthesmokies.org/trailsforever/volunteer.

“Rockin’ Discovery” passholders. Advance registration required: www.chimneyrockpark.com.

• Registration is underway for a “Women in the Woods” trip that’s scheduled for 9 a.m. on Friday, May 19 and will be led by professional naturalist Liz Domingue in the Greenbrier area. Preregistration required: www.smokiesinformation.org/info/backpacking-2018 or 865.436.7318, ext. 349.

• A cycling ride exploring the Fire Mountain Trail System in Cherokee will be offered at 6 p.m. every other Thursday, rides started on April 12. Participants will divide into a beginner group and a non-beginner group, with 60 to 90 minutes on the trail each time.

Organized by the Nantahala Area Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association, with an event page at www.facebook.com/NantahalaAreaSORBA/. nantahala.area.sorba@gmail.com.

COMPETITIVE EDGE Registration for the annual Greening Up the Mountains Festival 5K is now open. The race will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 28 at Mark Watson Park in Sylva, North Carolina. All proceeds from the race support the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department. www.greeningupthemountains.com Registration ends on April 25. jeniferpressley@jackonnc.org.

• Registration is underway for the Merrell Adventure Dash, which features a series of natural and manmade obstacles along a 5K course. The event is May 26 at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. https://tinyurl.com/y8zt5hh5.

FARM AND GARDEN • The third-annual Spring Garden Fair is scheduled for noon-6 p.m. on Friday, April 20, and from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, April 21, at the Cherokee Fair Ground. Plants, seeds, yard art, tools, education. Info: LegendWeaverStudios@gmail.com.

• The Corneille Bryan Native Garden will hold a Native Plant Sale from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, April 21, at Lake Junaluska. 778.5938.

• Trout Unlimited Cataloochee will be “Stocking the Delayed Harvest on the West Fork” on Tuesday, May 1.

Take highway 215 South from Bethel and go past Lake Logan. Meet at the upper parking area on the left across from the gun range, below Sunburst Campground.

• An Organic Gardening 101 class will be offered from 2-3 p.m. on Tuesday, April 24 at the Waynesville Library.

• The Franklin Bird Club will have a bird walk along the Greenway at 8 a.m. on May 2. Meet at Big Bear shelter parking area at 8 a.m. franklinbirdclub.com or 524.5234.

• The Haywood County Plant Clinic is open every business day at the Haywood County Extension Center on Raccoon Road in Waynesville. To discuss any gardening problem, call 456.3575 or stop by.

• A “Basic Neotropical Songbird” workshop will be offered on three separate dates in May - May 3, May 12 and May 17 - at Alarka Laurel. $55. Register: www.paypal.me/cedartree. Info: alarkaexpeditions@gmail.com, 371.0347 or alarkaexpeditions.com.

• A “Flying Wild Workshop” for middle school teachers is scheduled for 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the Cradle of Forestry near Brevard. Learn activities to teach middle school students about birds, their migration and more. Register or get more info: https://cradleofforestry.com/event/flying-wild-workshop.

• “World Migratory Bird Day Celebration” is scheduled for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, at the Cradle of Forestry near Brevard. Register or get more info: https://cradleofforestry.com/event/world-migratorybird-day-celebration.

• “Pisgah Pride Day 2018” – the third-annual volunteer work day – is scheduled for May 5 in the Pisgah Ranger District. Perform trail work, treat invasive species, pick up trash and raise a new Ranger Station sign. Registration required: tinyurl.com/y8subj4v.

• A Chimney Rock Naturalist Niche Hike – Spring Migration Bird Walk – will be held from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, May 5. Easy to moderate. $23 per adult; $8 per annual passholder; $13 for ages 5-15 and $6 for

• The N.C. Cooperative Extension Service will hold a seminar on Gardening Basics 101 from 10:15 a.m.noon on Tuesday, May 1, at the Cashiers Library. For info or to register: 586.4009 or clbreden@ncsu.edu.

HIKING CLUBS • The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 7.5mile hike with an elevation change of 500 feet on Saturday, April 28, from Sweat Heifer to Kephart Prong.

Info and reservations: 456.8895.

• Nantahala Hiking Club holds monthly trail maintenance days from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on every fourth Saturday at 173 Carl Slagle Road in Franklin. Info and to register: 369.1983.

• Hike of the Week is at 10 a.m. every Friday at varying locations along the parkway. Led by National Park Service rangers. www.nps.gov/blri or 298.5330, ext. 304.

• Friends of the Smokies hikes are offered on the second Tuesday of each month. www.friendsofthesmokies.org/hikes.html.

• Nantahala Hiking Club based in Macon County holds weekly Saturday hikes in the Nantahala National Forest and beyond. www.nantahalahikingclub.org • Carolina Mountain Club hosts more than 150 hikes a year, including options for full days on weekends, full days on Wednesdays and half days on Sundays. Nonmembers contact event leaders. www.carolinamountainclub.org

PRIME REAL ESTATE Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News

LEGAL NOTICES

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

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID Single Prime sealed proposals will be received by Mountain Projects, Inc. (“Owner) at the Conference Room located at 2177 Asheville Road (Old Health Department) in Waynesville, NC 28786 on May 16th, 2018 no later than 3:00 PM, for the Head Start / Early Head Start Program Building Renovations and Alterations located at 489B Pigeon Street in Waynesville, NC. A pre-bid conference is scheduled for May 1st, 2018 at 2 PM at the Job Site.

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April 25-May 1, 2018

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NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 844.660.6943 SAPA

EMPLOYMENT AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING – Get FAA Technician certification.

Approved for military benefits.

Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866.724.5403

The Smoky Mountain News is Seeking a

Full-Time Graphic Designer/ Clerical Assistant to work in our Waynesville, North Carolina office.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES • Collaborate with art director(s) in determining design priorities based on deadlines • Design both print and digital advertising that adheres to client specifications • Must work well in a small office setting and possess excellent communication skills • Assist in answering incoming phone calls and directing office visitors

To view the complete job description, visit jobs.smokymountainnews.com.

Smoky Mountain News is an equal opportunity employer

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT ANNOUNCEMENT SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS HAYWOOD COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA The Haywood County Consolidated School System Board of Education is seeking a Superintendent to lead the Haywood County Schools (“HCS”) in their continual goal of excellence. Currently, the System is ranked 11th (top 10%) in the State’s End of Grade Testing. Candidates must have or be qualified to hold a Superintendent license in North Carolina. Three years of Associate Superintendent or equivalent level experience is preferred but not required. A doctorate degree or progress toward a doctorate degree is also preferred but not required. Haywood County Schools enjoy and strongly encourages community support. The System has a close working relationship with County Government, all Municipalities in the County, and Haywood Community College. A successful candidate will be required to live in the boundaries of Haywood County.

A successful candidate must demonstrate ability and success in (1) visionary educational leadership; (2) curriculum and instruction; (3) goal-setting and monitoring achievement; (4) fostering community and intergovernmental partnerships; (5) organization and administration of short-term and long-term strategic planning, budgeting, and personnel and facilities management; (6) strong communication skills and effective team-building; (7) procuring additional funding; (8) visibility and involvement in community activities; (9) leadership in maintaining safe and orderly school environments; (10) planning and funding of school facilities; and (11) decision-making, delegation, and follow-through.

Haywood County is located in the western part of the mountain region of North Carolina. The County is centrally located in the Southeast region of the United States and easily reached from most places, either by automobile or plane. Haywood County is located 20 minutes west of Asheville, NC. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah National Forest comprise some 40 percent of the county's land area and are key elements in the county's economy and culture. Municipalities in Haywood County include the county seat of Waynesville, Canton, Clyde, Maggie Valley, and Hazelwood. With a population of 60,000, Haywood is the third largest county in Western North Carolina. It is home to 546 scenic square miles of mountain vistas, fertile river valleys and rolling foothills.

The School System has approximately 7,500 students in 16 schools. Of those, three are high schools, three are middle schools, nine elementary schools, and one Early College High School. HCS is governed by an elected nine member Board of Education. The Board is searching for a Superintendent who will continue the tradition of academic achievement and excellence, with strong school community support and involvement.

Applications may be downloaded from the Haywood County Schools’ website: www.haywood.k12.nc.us, or by contacting the School Board Attorney, Patrick U. Smathers at the address, phone number, or email listed below.

Applications must be received in the office of the School Board Attorney, Patrick U. Smathers, by mail or email, no later than May 14, 2018. Questions should be directed to: Patrick U. Smathers, Smathers & Smathers, Attorneys at Law, 118 Main Street, Suite B, Canton, NC 28716; Phone (828) 648-8240 or email: patsmathers@smatherslaw.com. All inquiries will be kept confidential. The Board hopes to make a selection by June 11, 2018.

BROWN TRUCKING Is looking for COMPANY DRIVERS and OWNER OPERATORS. Brown requires: CDL-A, 2 years of tractor trailer experience OTR or Regional in the last 3 years, good MVR and PSP. Apply at: driveforbrown.com.

Or Call Brandon at 919.291.7416.

UNABLE TO WORK Due to injury or illness? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys! FREE Evaluation. Local Attorneys Nationwide 1.800.371.1734 [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

Ira Atkins REALTOR, BROKER

828-564-3914 ira@4smokys.com WAYNESVILLE OFFICE:

Great Smokys Realty 52

828-564-1950 www.4smokys.com

36 S. Main St. Waynesville

MAD BATTER In Downtown Sylva is Seeking Full-Time Line Cook/Food Truck Team Member. Ideal Candidates will have High Volume Line Exp. & Be Service Oriented. Candidate Must be 18+ & Have Reliable Transportation. Stop by Between Tuesday - Thursday 2:00-4:00pm or Email Your Resume to: madbatterevents@gmail.com No Phone Calls Please FTCC Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Collision Repair & Refinishing Technology Instructor, Construction Observer (Part-Time), Engineering Instructor, Grounds Technician, Security Shift Supervisor, Security Officer. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.comHuman Resources Office Phone: 910.678.7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu An Equal Opportunity Employer PARAPROFESSIONAL NEEDED For Mental Health Group Home.

Position is 32hr/wk (weekend shift) with Benefits. Please call 828.452.2752 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

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT LEASE TO OWN 1/2 Acre Lots with Mobile Homes & Empty 1/2 Acre + Lots!

Located Next to Cherokee Indian Reservation, 2.5 Miles from Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.

For More Information Please Call 828.506.0578 SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your Mortgage? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL 844.359.4330

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised on equal opportunity basis.

CAVALIER ARMS APARTMENTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Offering 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $420.00 Section 8 Accepted - Rental Assistance When Available Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday & Thursday 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

50 Duckett Cove Road, Waynesville, NC 28786

Phone# 1.828.456.6776 TDD# 1.800.725.2962 Equal Housing Opportunity

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT

HOMES FOR SALE BRUCE MCGOVERN A Full Service Realtor, Locally Owned and Operated mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com McGovern Property Management 828.283.2112.

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE

VACATION RENTALS BEACH VACATION SPECIAL Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. Mention ad to receive an extra $25 off all vacation rentals. Near Myrtle Beach/Wilmington. Golf, fishing.

Family beach 800.622.3224 www.cookerealty.com SAPA

HAVE 10K IN DEBT? National Debt Relief is rated APlus with the BBB. You could be debt free in 24-48 months. Call 1.844.240.0122 now!

SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your MORTGAGE? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL Homeowner's Relief Line! Call 855.995.4199 IRS TAX DEBTS? $10k+! Tired of the calls? We can Help! $500 free consultation!

We can STOP the garnishments!

FREE Consultation 855.970.2963

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

cproben@beverly-hanks.com

Haywood County Real Estate Agents

74 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC

828.452.5809

Berkshire Hathaway www.4Smokys.com

Phyllis Robinson

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Heritage

OWNER/BROKER

(828) 712-5578

lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

• Carolyn Lauter - carolyn@bhgheritage.com

The Only Name in Junaluska Real Estate 9o a.

Lake Junaluska 828.456.4070

UNABLE TO WORK Due to injury or illness? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys! FREE Evaluation. Local Attorneys Nationwide 1.800.371.1734 [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

Beverly Hanks & Associates . 4

www.LakeshoreRealtyNC.com Conveniently located in the Bethea Welcome Center

FOR SALE BORING/CARPENTER BEE TRAPS No Chemicals, Poisons or Anything to Harm the Environment.

Handmade in Haywood County. 1 for $20, 2 or More for $15 each.

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WANTED TO BUY FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans.

312.291.9169; www.refrigerantfinders.com

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS We Are Offering 2 Bedroom Apartments, Starting From $465.00

ERA Sunburst Realty sunburstrealty.com • Amy Spivey - amyspivey.com • Rick Border - sunburstrealty.com

Keller Williams Realty

Steve Mauldin

828.734.4864

smauldin@beverly-hanks.com

828.452.5809

beverly-hanks.com Mike Stamey

mstamey@beverly-hanks.com

828-508-9607

OFFICE HOURS: 74 NORTH MAIN ST. • WAYNESVILLE, NC

www.beverly-hanks.com

Phone# 1.828.586.3346 TDD# 1.800.735.2962 Equal Housing Opportunity

kellerwilliamswaynesville.com • The Morris Team - www.themorristeamnc.com

Lakeshore Realty • Phyllis Robinson - lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

Mountain Home Properties 74 N. Main St.,Waynesville

Section 8 Accepted - Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm 168E Nicol Arms Road Sylva, NC 28779

• • • • • • • • •

beverly-hanks.com Ann Eavenson - anneavenson@beverly-hanks.com George Escaravage - gescar@beverly-hanks.com Billie Green - bgreen@beverly-hanks.com Michelle McElroy michellemcelroy@beverly-hanks.com Marilynn Obrig - mobrig@beverly-hanks.com Steve Mauldin - smauldin@beverly-hanks.com Brian K. Noland - brianknoland.com Anne Page - apage@beverly-hanks.com Brooke Parrott - bparrott@beverly-hanks.com Jerry Powell - jpowell@beverly-hanks.com Catherine Proben - cproben@beverly-hanks.com Ellen Sither - ellensither@beverly-hanks.com Mike Stamey - mikestamey@beverly-hanks.com

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

mountaindream.com • Cindy Dubose - cdubose@mountaindream.com

McGovern Real Estate & Property Management • Bruce McGovern - shamrock13.com

RE/MAX Executive

• • • • •

remax-waynesvillenc.com remax-maggievalleync.com Holly Fletcher - hollyfletcher1975@gmail.com The Real Team - TheRealTeamNC.com Ron Breese - ronbreese.com Landen Stevenson Landen@landenstevenson.com Dan Womack - womackdan@aol.com

smokymountainnews.com

NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS

• • • •

April 25-May 1, 2018

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.

BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to a loan company. SAPA

WNC MarketPlace

TWO REAL ESTATE AUCTIONS SALE A: HopeTree Retreat and Conference Center (Bedford County, VA). 84+/-Acres Offered in 5 Tracts. 2494 Camp Jaycee Road, Blue Ridge, VA 24064. Wednesday, May 9, 2PM (On-site). SALE B: Glory Road Retreat and Activity Center (Henry County, VA). 87+/-Acres Offered in 6 Tracts. 312 Glory Road, Axton, VA 24054. Thursday, May 10, 2PM (On-site). LOW MINIMUMS-IDEAL FOR MULTIPLE USESTAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS OPPORTUNITY, visit woltz.com or call Woltz & Associates, Inc. (VA#321), Real Estate Brokers & Auctioneers 800.551.3588.

FINANCIAL

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE 828.452.4251 | ads@smokymountainnews.com 53

CROSSWORD

www.smokymountainnews.com

April 25-May 1, 2018

WNC MarketPlace

Super

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WILLIAM’S WAIF ACROSS 1 Fuel dispenser 8 Beat, as wings 12 Pairs 16 Boohoo 19 Waldorf — (hotel) 20 Instantly 22 Stan of comics 23 Start of a riddle 25 Eggs in a lab 26 Lock insert 27 AAA request 28 — Aviv 29 Entryways 31 Riddle, part 2 39 Said aloud 41 Zebra’s kin 42 Very gloomy 43 “Electric” fish 44 One of the 12 apostles 45 Post-Q string 46 Alternative to Zoloft or Paxil 48 Riddle, part 3 55 Olive of comics 56 2004-10 nickname on the Houston Rockets 57 Actor Mineo 58 Biting comedy 59 Boozed up 61 Slangy assents 65 Arcade coin 66 Not firm 69 Riddle, part 4 72 Allows to 73 Less diluted 75 Opening for a letter-shaped bolt 76 Like part of the heart 78 “The Simpsons” voice actor Hank

6 Prefix with represent 7 Gave a gentle touch 8 Whizzed by 9 Ignited 10 Some spitzes 11 Actor Finch 12 Lao- — 13 “Says —?”

14 Gut-punch sound 15 Exaggerated 16 Dress 17 Let slip 18 Leavenings 21 Quickly, musically 24 Santa’s laugh sounds 30 Swallowed 32 Utter agony 33 Noble Brit 34 Said nothing 35 “Como —?”

(Juan’s greeting) 36 Univ. lecturer 37 Minnelli of “Arthur” 38 Garner 39 As many as 40 “So — say” 45 School break 46 Volcano that destroyed St. Pierre 47 Small talk 49 Knows the answer 50 Be really flattering 51 Ringlike isle 52 Tandem, e.g.

53 Pitcher Saberhagen 54 Hankers DOWN 59 Far from lax 1 Rubberneck 60 650, in old Rome 2 Court great Arthur 62 Gardner of old 3 “Don’t move” films 4 Lobster trap 5 Geller with a psychic 63 Table protector under a warm dish act 80 Disk in a 1990s fad game 82 “Milk” Oscar winner Sean 83 OR figure 86 Riddle, part 5 92 Crystal-lined stones 93 Scepter 94 Mobster’s code of silence 95 Fair-minded 99 Take — (sample the drink) 100 The “E” of PEI: Abbr.

101 Having as a foundation 102 End of the riddle 106 Persona non — (outcast) 107 Quadrennial games org.

108 Brain wave test, in brief 109 Chest bone 112 Address for a knight 113 Riddle’s answer 121 Koko or Kong 122 Most itty-bitty 123 Decorated pilots 124 Get married 125 Hedge shrubs 126 Lofty works 127 Least slobby

64 Not as iffy 66 Fix, as a dog or cat 67 Liqueur akin to Sambuca 68 Herr’s wife 70 Pueblo dwellers 71 Vocalize loudly 74 Actress Diana 77 Absence of vigor 79 “Save me —” 81 Avant- — (totally new) 83 Cajun dish 84 Painter Dix 85 Bluish green 87 “Baloney!,” to Brits 88 Falco or Adams 89 Patches 90 Costs for cheap apartments 91 Jail unit 95 Many-pieced puzzle 96 Still green 97 Roped in 98 Trike rider 100 Cut in glass 101 Enthusiast 103 Run-down 104 Lead-in to economic or political 105 Lead-in to colonial 110 Glazes, e.g.

111 Unequaled 114 “— -haw!”

115 “Gross!”

116 Little — (tykes) 117 British verb ending 118 Be in the running (for) 119 Noted time 120 Actor Faxon

answers on page 48

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Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 800.511.6075

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BATHE SAFELY And stay in the home you love with the #1 selling Walk-in Tub in North America. For an in-home appointment, call: 844.294.5707 UNABLE TO WORK Due to injury or illness? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys! FREE Evaluation. Local Attorneys Nationwide 1.800.371.1734 [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

SCHOOLS/ INSTRUCTION FTCC Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Collision Repair & Refinishing Technology Instructor, Construction Observer (Part-Time), Engineering Instructor, Grounds Technician, Security Shift Supervisor, Security Officer. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.comHuman Resources Office Phone: 910.678.7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu An Equal Opportunity Employer

SERVICES ALWAYS PROTECT YOUR FAMILY! Final Expense/Burial Insurance $30,000 Coverage Only $1per day!

No Med Exam! Free Consult Call Today 1.877.920.7576 AT&T HIGH SPEED Internet Starting at $40/month. Up to 45 Mbps! Over 99% Reliability!

Bundle AT&T Digital TV or Phone Services & Internet Price Starts at $30/month. Call 1.800.950.1469 SAPA DISH NETWORK. 190+ Channels. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 mos) Add High Speed Internet $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & Save 25%! 1.877.920.7405 SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea.

60 MB per second speed No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1.855.993.5352 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

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.

Answers on Page 48

The naturalist’s corner

BY DON H ENDERSHOT

Testing the early spring winds had the great pleasure of leading an early spring birding trip for Alarka Expeditions this past weekend, April 2122. Alarka Expeditions is a brand new eco tour/environmental education enterprise based in Cowee in Macon County adjacent to the Nantahala National Forest and the Cowee National Historic District.

It is the brainchild of Brent and Angela Faye Martin, two ardent environmentalists and creative souls who love sharing their knowledge of and love for the natural world, which has served as the fount of their creativity and the underpinning of their life’s work. Brent is a poet and author who has published three chapbooks of poetry and has been published in the North Carolina Literary Review, New Southerner, Earthlines and more. He served for more than a decade as Southern Appalachian Regional Director for the Wilderness Society and before that as Executive Director of Georgia Forestwatch.

Angela Faye is a singer-songwriter, naturalist and artist who has worked for the Wilderness Society, Armuchee Alliance,

I

Pacific Rivers Council and Georgia Forestwatch.

Alarka Expeditions leads and facilitates trips and/or workshops on the flora and fauna of the Southern Appalachians plus the cultural and natural history of the region.

They are also happy to design customized programs or hikes for guests who may have interests in a particular aspect or facet of the Southern Appalachians. Learn about Alarka Expeditions on Facebook or at their website www.alarkaexpeditions.com.

Our trip last weekend centered on the Grandfather District of the Pisgah National Forest plus short sorties to Lake James State Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway near Grandfather Mountain. We began at Lake James, enroute to the Grandfather District.

The morning still had a bit of a chill with the wind coming off the lake, but it didn’t seem to chill the butter-butts (aka yellow-rumped warblers) that were actively singing and foraging along the shoreline. A pair of osprey was patrolling the lake and we picked up a lone ring-billed gull, a common loon and a couple of double-crested cormorants. We also got to watch a group of about 14 redbreasted mergansers chasing fish like a group of synchronized swimmers — disap-

pearing in unison and then popping back to the surface. A group of brown-headed nuthatches on the grounds of the visitors center was also a nice surprise for a bunch of

Prairie warbler Grandfather District Pisgah National Forest.

Don Hendershot photo

mountain birders.

A couple of prairie warblers at our first stop in the Grandfather District got the cameras revved as they sang and foraged and chased one another along the roadside at the edge of a clearcut. A flyover by a red-shouldered hawk gave good looks at the distinctive translucent “windows” near the wingtips.

We headed on up the mountain for a short break and to check in to our hotel before an afternoon drive along the Parkway.

There was a small pond just before the entrance to the Parkway so we decided to

stop for a quick look. We were quite happy we did — the pond produced killdeer, spotted sandpiper, solitary sandpiper and semipalmated sandpiper. The Parkway provided some high-elevation specialties like golden-crowned kinglet, red-breasted nuthatch and black-capped chickadee.

We headed back down to the Grandfather District Sunday morning and birded the forest and adjacent nurseries and farmlands. We were able to find indigo buntings, eastern meadowlarks, yellow warbler and common yellowthroat in the rural landscape and worm eating warblers, black and white warblers, blackburnian warblers and others in the forests.

Rain cut our Sunday a little short just after noon. But, fortunately Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton provided just the spirit to shake off our dampness, tally our checklist and reminisce on a pretty darn good early spring outing. I believe the total number of species for the weekend was 85.

(Don Hendershot is a naturalist and a writer who lives in Haywood County. He can be reached at ddihen1@bellsouth.net)

April 25-May 1, 2018 Smoky Mountain News 55

April 25-May 1, 2018

MAY

8-12 Come join us in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee for the

Smoky Mountain News

28th Anniversary Wilderness Wildlife Week!

This special free event features more than 200 educational seminars, 30 outdoor excursions into Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding area, as well as more than 50 onsite exhibitors.

Featured sessions include presentations by Ken Jenkins, Dwight McCarter, Dr. Bill Bass and Art Bohanan, Sam Venable, as well as the first-ever Wilderness Wildlife Week 48 Hour Film Race, the annual Digital Photography Contest, as well as more than 100 sessions for children to enjoy!

...and many other remarkable activities!

The LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge 2986 Teaster Lane Pigeon Forge, TN For more information, visit MyPigeonForge.com or telephone the Pigeon Forge OfďŹ ce of Special Events at (865) 429-7350.

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