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

June 18-24, 2014 Vol. 16 Iss. 03

Seventy years later, a D-Day vet looks back Page 8 Education advocates petition, push toward Raleigh Page 16

CONTENTS

OUT SOON Greater Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Member Directory is now available!

Visit the Chamber office at 591 N. Main St. in Waynesville to pick up your copy.

Visit the Chamber Website HaywoodChamber.com to view the directory Thank you to everyone that placed an advertisement in the 2014 Member Directory.

The Chamber greatly appreciates your continued support!

On the Cover Insects usually draw more squishing attempts than they do spectators, but the synchronous fireflies of Great Smoky Mountains National Park attract thousands of people to Elkmont Campground each year to see their magical mating display. Consensus says it's a bucket list item, but despite all the attention, the beetles are still remarkably mysterious creatures. (Page 30)

News Teacher advocates swing through Waynesville en route to Raleigh . . . . . . . . . . 4 Alaska Presley gears up for another season at Ghost Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Jackson’s full-house steep slopes hearing hits the bookshelf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 South Main anchor intersection in Waynesville could spur revitalization . . . . . . 7 Seventy years later, a local WWII vet reflects on D-Day. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Franklin goes all in on 2 percent property tax hike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Commissioners of Macon’s past reflect on their time in office . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Despite managerial shake-up, Murphy casino still on schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 WCU officials stress state budget and employee retention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 A new state law expands the sales tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Haywood hands off economic development from county to chamber. . . . . . . 16 Jackson commissioners check out Haywood’s justice center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

A&E Performance venues grapple with new state tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Back Then An 1864 Confederate push over Newfound Gap is worth remembering . . . 47

June 18-24, 2014

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Petition drive steers toward education funding

Last year, 14 percent of blindly on the number of years they have on teachers, or 13,600 statewide, the job, but rather performance. resigned, according to “You could have a great teacher and one Brenner. Fewer college stu- that is under performing and they are paid dents are pursuing a teaching the same. We need to link pay to things that career, and of those who are, we really want to value which is performance more are taking jobs in other in the classroom.” states with better pay.

Teacher pay isn’t the only area that needs About three dozen people attention in the education budget, said from the community showed Plemmons, pointing to funding cuts that up for the rally, and were given reduced the budget for science materials at signs decrying the state’s rank- Tuscola from $7,000 to $1,000 this year. With ing in teacher pay — declaring the cost of a formaldehyde-soaked frog runthe state 46th in the nation. But ning $1.80 a pop, let alone elements and minthat changed just last week. erals for chemistry experiments, the science “Our signs are outdated. supply budget isn’t enough to adequately Cross-out 46th and punch up serve the more than 1,000 students at the 47th,” Brenner said. high school, she said.

However, the teacher pay Plemmons, like many teachers, buys conundrum is more complicat- everything from tissues to pencils for the ed and shouldn’t be solved by classroom out of her own pocket. simply an across-the-board “Our schools are in dire need of updated salary hike, according to Bob technology and textbooks. Class sizes have Luebke, an education expert continued to grow larger,” Masciarelli added.

A rally calling for teacher raises without compromising other areas of the education budget was held in with the Civitas Institute, a As North Carolina slips on the education front of the Haywood County courthouse this week as part of a statewide tour. Becky Johnson photo conservative policy group front, the economy will suffer, he said. based in Raleigh.

“Think about the view from outside our

BY B ECKY JOHNSON Meanwhile, the proposal by the state “I think we all recognize that we have to state: Would you move your business to STAFF WRITER House to raise teacher pay by 5 percent relies reform how we pay teachers,” Luebke said.

North Carolina? If given the choice, would dvocates calling for increased state edu- on a flawed strategy that would tap proceeds But Luebke recyou enroll your child cation funding made a stop in Haywood of the N.C. lottery, Brenner said. The hope is ommends a more tai“If given the choice, would in a state that is 48th County Monday as part of a statewide that more aggressive advertising will increase lored solution like in per pupil spendyou enroll your child in a tour en route to Raleigh, where they will lottery ticket sales, but it’s questionable that proposed by ing?”

Masciarelli deliver a stack of petitions signed by 61,000 whether that would work, and even if it did, Governor Pat posed. state that is 48th in per state residents later this week. the lottery preys disproportionately on lower McCrory.

While state eduCardboard boxes filled with the petitions socioeconomic classes, Brenner said.

“The big part of cation funding has pupil spending?” were piled on the sidewalk in front of the hisAlex Masciarelli, a Waynesville Middle the problem is on the technically increased — Alex Masciarelli, Waynesville toric courthouse in Waynesville as a prop School teacher, shared his struggles trying to front end of the as a raw number year Middle School teacher during a rally hosted by Progress NC Action. support a family of five on a teacher’s salary. teacher salary strucover year, it hasn’t Specifically, the petitions ask lawmakers to He has worked second, third and even fourth ture,” he said. “Our kept up with inflacome up with a viable plan for increasing jobs as a community college teacher, a tutor starting salaries are lower than what they tion or the growing number of students in teacher pay to the national average — with- and summer camp instructor. should be. Because of this economy, the state the school system. out cutting education in other areas in order “Due to the teacher salary freeze in North hasn’t had the money to boost those salaries.”

“You will hear a bunch of lawmakers say to pay for it.

Carolina it has been extremely difficult for It’s not uncommon for teachers with more ‘What are you talking about? We are spendA plan recently floated by the state Senate families like mine,” said Masciarelli, who has years in the profession to make $45,000 or ing more money than we ever have on public to increase teacher pay by 11 percent is “rob- a masters in education. He said he knows of more a year, while the pay for younger teach- education,’” Brenner said. But education bing from Peter to pay Paul” by cutting other young teachers who have put off having chil- ers, many of whom work just as hard or hard- funding is actually $500 million below 2008 areas of education, including massive layoffs dren due to financial constraints. er than those with more longevity, make sub- levels based on per student funding and inflaof teachers assistants and reductions to early Yvonne Plemmons, a science teacher at stantially less. tion adjustments, he said. childhood education, to name a few, accord- Tuscola High School in Waynesville, said she’s Luebke takes that rationale one step fur“North Carolina children are not on an ing to Gerrick Brenner, the executive director seen disheartened teachers leave the profes- ther: local school districts should have flexi- equal playing field,” said Tina Lambert, a of Progress NC Action. sion recently due to feeling undervalued. bility in setting teacher salaries, not based local parent in attendance.

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Showcase building. Where Fort Cherokee now lingers, there will be a Roman outpost. A small Flying Dutchman ride will be transformed into a Noah’s Ark attraction.

“I think it’ll work,” Presley said. “It takes a lot of imagination.”

But Resurrection Mountain is a dream in the distance. One that will require resources and stamina. A dream that has yet to dig in.

For now, Presley has her plate full with Ghost Town. She’d like to see it return to its

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Smoky Mountain News

state of disrepair. Over the past few years, she has worked to restore the venue and lure in throngs of visitors.

Presley’s first years were rough. Since purchasing the park, she has only been able to open late in the season and with limited offerings.

But she feels better about this year. The rides are serviced, city water has been run throughout the park and the shooting galleries have been refurbished. The chairlift seems to be humming nicely, 41 employees have been hired and Presley is excited about the additions of hand-scooped ice cream and hand-tossed pizza.

“This time now I think I’m totally prepared,” she said.

Standing along the Western-town façade on the upper level, Presley surveyed the sweeping view afforded at the park.

“Now, where in the world can you go and find this?” the owner smiled as “I like being she motioned over the expanse. busy. I’ll Rolling through never retire.” the park in her Mercedes, Presley — Alaska Presley pointed out the various attractions.

There’s the haunted house and the kiddie rides and the concessions. The Cliffhanger, the park’s roller coaster, is still out of commission.

“I haven’t decided what to do with it,” she said of the coaster, a ride for which repair may prove prohibitively expensive.

The park seems to have stood still in time, never wavering from the 1960s vacation experience it has always offered. Critics have noted that no one is interested in such a nostalgic experience, but Presley doesn’t buy it.

“They want that,” she contends. “Just about everybody that comes here says, ‘I came here as a kid.’”

But Presley says she also wants to offer park visitors something new, and provide the park with a “shot in the arm.”

“That’s the reason this section up here is going to be Resurrection Mountain,” she said, heading higher up the mountain.

June 18-24, 2014

BY J EREMY MORRISON N EWS E DITOR “See that up there?” asked Alaska Presley as she piloted her Mercedes up a back road to the top of Ghost Town in the Sky. “That’s the drop tower there.”

The drop tower, a bygone amusement ride, will be removed eventually. Presley explained that one day a large cross will be erected on that spot.

“Can’t you just imagine being down at the bottom and looking up at that cross?” she said.

Big plans for the future. But first, this summer’s opening of Ghost Town, the Maggie Valley amusement park that Presley has fought to keep in the realm of the living for the past few years.

“I predict a good season,” Presley said about a week prior to the park’s June 20 opening date. “I think we’re going to do well.”

Presley purchased Ghost Town for a song on the auction block in 2012. She wasn’t inclined to buy the park, but had already invested about half a million dollars into it with the previous owners.

“It was either bid on it or lose it,” Presley said.

The park was sold at the Haywood County Courthouse. Purchased out of foreclosure for $1.5 million.

“Of course, I was delighted,” said Presley, who had grown quite wealthy over the years working real estate and has been involved with the park in various capacities since its inception in the early 1960s.

The new owner found the park to be in a

Ghost Town in the Sky owner Alaska Pressley stands along one of the park’s westernthemed streets. Jeremy Morrison photo

Ghost Town in the Sky opens for the season June 20. Season passes are available for $39.95 per person, and free opening weekend passes are being offered as a promotion on the park’s Facebook site. Daily ticket prices are $24.95 for adults and $14.95 for children ages three to 12. Kids two and under are free.

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Ghost Town in the Sky opens for the season

Opening day

yesteryear boom time, when upwards of 15,000 people would descend upon the mountain theme park.

“To get back into the heyday that I’ve seen here before,” Presley said.

But why? Why does this millionaire feel the need to revive an amusement park that has been left for dead by the passing years?

“It’s just a feeling that I had that I wanted reciprocation, more or less,” said Presley.

The park owner described how her family lived and thrived in Maggie Valley. They owned multiple businesses and the community was good to them.

Now, Presley would like to be able to give back to that community. She wants to provide the area with a source of joy.

“I want to make it a happy place,” Presley said.

Beyond that, she’d like Ghost Town to contribute to the area’s foundation. She’d like to see the park draw in tourists and their dollars. She’d like Ghost Town to become “an asset to Haywood County.”

“For businesses to do well and people to be happy,” Presley said.

But Presley is also working to revive Ghost Town because she can’t not do it.

“I just enjoy creating things, something that’s useful and something that’s permanent,” Presley said. “I like being busy. I’ll never retire.”

Like her vision for the park itself, Presley is striving to offer something that brings joy to people. She wants to see them smile like they did in the heyday.

“Does that sound silly?” Presley asked.

news

Alaska’s dream

Resurrection Mountain, which Presley also refers to as the Holy Land, is Presley’s dream.

“I just dreamed it up,” she said.

At the park’s highest point sits a defunct stretch of attractions. If the dream is one day realized, this area will be transformed into a Biblical-themed attraction.

“Right there will be the cross,” Presley said, pointing to the selected site.

Off to the side, she described a gold and white palace in the proximity of the ghostly America’s Music Hall Entertainment

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Pending availability, tickets may be purchased the night of the show.

Directions to the Cowee School can be found at the website.

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One for the books Steep slope hearing encapsulated in print

BY J EREMY MORRISON N EWS E DITOR he public hearing on Jackson County’s steep slope regulations struck Dave Waldrop as special.

“It was so unbelievable,” Waldrop said.

The February meeting that focused on the possible revision of Jackson County’s steep slope development ordinance attracted an impassioned crowd decidedly against revising with the regulations. Waldrop himself sang an original ballad called “Mr. Operator.”

“It just went 43 times, let’s keep what we have. You don’t go to a meeting very often when 43 people get up and basically say ‘Amen,’” recalled Waldrop. “I came home almost trembling.”

Speakers at the hearing implored the Jackson County Planning Board not to weaken development regulations adopted in 2007.

No one spoke in favor of revising the regulations. Jackson County commissioners have since signaled that they won’t be touching the issue until after the November elections.

Waldrop was touched by the outpouring of public sentiment displayed at the hearing and has recently published a spiral-bound book titled Saving these Sacred Mountains that provides a raw account of the event.

“I thought, in this case, raw material was the best way to go,” Waldrop said.

The book is a collection of verbatim public comment and steep slope-related materials. Background on the issue is provided by Tom Massie, a county commissioner at the time the ordinance was adopted, and the text of Jackson County’s Mountain and Hillside Development Ordinance, including the revisions approved by the planning board in January, is also included. The book is being sold at City Lights bookstore in Sylva for $30.

“I don’t figure it’s going to sell. I didn’t do it to sell. I did it to capture what’s going on,” Waldrop said. “So that I can hand this to my kids and my grandkids and they can look back and say, ‘Here’s what happened.’”

Julie Mayfield, co-director of Western North Carolina Alliance, an environmental organization, is one of the public speakers featured within the pages of transcripts in

Smoky Mountain News

June 18-24, 2014

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Waldrop’s book.

“I think it has great value as a narrative about this issue,” Mayfield said of the booklet.

During the hearing, Mayfield spoke about the farmhouse her grandfather built. She told the planning board that they were in a position to either “protect and defend the beauty of Jackson County or open the door to its destruction.”

“I think my relations would roll over in their graves if they knew that the county would be opened up,” Mayfield said, describing the potential ordinance revisions as “a step backward.”

Carl Lipkin, chairman of the planning board, disagreed in February with such an assertion and he still disagrees today.

“A lot of this is perceived problems, not actual problems,” Lipkin said. “People thought we were talking about tearing the mountains down or not tearing the mountains down. It’s not that simple.”

The planning chair does recall a swell of

“I don’t figure it’s going to sell. I didn’t do it to sell. I did it to capture what’s going on.”

— Dave Waldrop

community participation — “It certainly did generate a lot of energy” — but views the February event in a different light than those who spoke that night. He feels the steep slope development issue generated such energy because people latched onto it and allowed it to embody a larger struggle.

“I think the steep slopes and the ridgetops symbolize in peoples’ minds the whole environment vs. construction,” Lipkin said. “It more than symbolizes, it encapsules the conflict, or the perceived conflict. It allows people to say, ‘This is the green side, this is the brown side and this is where I fall on that line.’ It’s an oversimplification in my mind.”

While the public comments at the hearing may have been impassioned, Lipkin also feels

Prison conversion project needs votes Haywood Pathways Center, the working title for the trio of Christian ministries working to make the old prison in Hazelwood into a center for restoration, has made it to the top of the pack in an online contest to win $50,000 and the help of celebrity house-flipper Ty Pennington to complete the project. The Haywood project garnered the most votes in the first round of Guaranteed Rate’s Give Back Challenge, which drew 300 entries from 49 states. Voting has just opened for round two, which includes the top 50 projects.

Now, the project has three weeks to make it into the top six for the final round of voting. Each top-six project will win

A crowd decidedly opposed to Jackson’s steep slope ordinance revision voiced concerns during a Feb. 20 public hearing. Becky Johnson photo

Jackson’s steep slope saga In 2007, Jackson County adopted what were considered to be some of the most comprehensive mountain development regulations in the state. Recently, officials have been considering a revision of the regulations. Opponents of revising the development ordinance content that the regulations will be watered down.

The Jackson County Planning Board began its revision process last year. After hearing a resounding ‘no’ from attendees of a Feb. 20 public hearing, county commissioners have shelved the revision process until after this November’s election.

some of them were off base, that the commenters may not have fully understood the revisions being proposed by the planning board. The chairman said he was not swayed by the display.

“I try to make my decisions based on a little more thought and a little less passion than I saw at that meeting,” Lipkin said.

The planning board chairman said he would have also like to have seen some opposing viewpoints expressed during the hearing. The balance, he said, would have been beneficial.

“What could you have possibly learned from a room full of people that said they same thing,” Lipkin said.

Appalachian storyteller Gary Carden wrote a short piece for the booklet titled “Synergy.” The author appears impressed by the show of public input at the hearing, but is ultimately pessimistic about their mission.

“I think you’re obligated to really resist,” Carden said. “But your chances are poor. The

at least $10,000 toward its goal, but the grand prize is $50,000 and the help of Pennington and his crew from the TV show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”

Haywood Pathways Center’s vision is to turn the abandoned low-security state prison that sits next to the new Haywood County Sheriff ’s Office and county jail into a hub offering a soup kitchen, homeless shelter and halfway house for people recently released from jail, with all services using a Christ-centered approach. The group expects the price tag to convert the facility to run about $300,000. They’re hoping to raise the money and open the facility by Nov. 1.

To see the project description, video and to vote, click the link on the group’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/haywoodpathwayscenter. Voting is open through July 8.

best you can do is delay.”

The author isn’t entirely hopeful that the powers that be will listen to the pleas of the public speakers from February once the steep slope issue is taken back up.

“I think they’ll compromise,” Carden said.

“And then they’ll compromise again. The future is a series of compromises.”

Waldrop shares this view. Impassioned public comment aside, he feels that eventually Jackson County’s ordinance will be revised in some fashion.

“If money rules, this ordinance will be whittled away,” Waldrop said.

In any case, people will now have a spiralbound recollection of one part of the conversation that led to whatever eventual steep slope regulations the county settles upon.

Western Carolina University has ordered a copy for archival purposes.

“This one little book is going to be a tremendous research tool,” Waldrop said.

Jackson County GOP meets in Sylva, Cashiers Republicans form the north and south regions of Jackson County are meeting the same week.

North Jackson Republicans will meet on Monday, June 23, at Ryan’s buffet restaurant in Sylva. The meal is at 6 p.m. and the meeting starts at 6:30 p.m.

South Jackson County Republicans will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24, at the Cashiers Republican Headquarters at Laurel Terrace Suite 8 on U.S. 64 East.

Both runoff candidates for sheriff — Curtis Lambert and Jimmy Hodgins — have been invited to speak. All Republicans, voters and others interested are invited to attend.

828.743.6491 or visit jacksoncountygop.com.

283 North Haywood St. Waynesville david.mesimer@allstate.com

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Smoky Mountain News

BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER group of vacant, ramshackle buildings at an anchor intersection on South Main Street in Waynesville has been purchased, signaling continued revitalization could be in store for the rag-tag corridor.

South Main has witnessed a slow but steady transformation over the past three years, fueled in part by national chain stores and fast-food joints piggy-backing on the arrival of Super Walmart. The recession tempered predictions that South Main would become an overnight hotbed of commercial development, but Thomas Morgan, owner of Mountain Energy and its chain of convenience stores, gas stations and fast-food enterprises in the region, purchased the corner lot of South Main and Allens Creek. The corner was comprised of four lots of varying sizes and all owned by different parties — which Morgan amassed to pull off the deal.

The sale price in total was $1.5 million for 1.3 acres, according to county property records. An empty building that once housed Carole’s Fine Foods and a vacant two-story cinderblock warehouse sit on the lot now.

This prize corner lot on South Main in Waynesville is in a derelict The property is state, but its recent purchase is likely a harbinger of new commercatty-corner to an cial development. Becky Johnson photo existing Shell Station owned by Morgan.

The parcels were purchased by a newly While the recession stymied South Main formed LLC called Mountain Star from taking off, it’s seen a clear uptick in Development, for which Morgan is a key activity in the past couple of years. principle, according to N.C. Secretary of • Belk department store, Michael’s craft State filings. Morgan did not return messtore, Rack Room shoes and Pet Smart sages seeking comment. opened in 2012.

Rumors are flying over what might come • Old Town Bank and a new Waynesville to the intersection, and most involve a fastliquor store opened in 2013. food chain or two, given the size of the site.

• A Taco Bell and Mattress Firm opened No matter what gets built, it will be a earlier this year, with the lots where they marked aesthetic improvement, according to were built going for a total of $900,000.

Fred Baker, Waynesville public works direcThe town commissioned a street study in tor and acting town planner. The town’s 2012 to set the stage for how the corridor smart growth principles require new comshould be developed to make it more pedesmercial development to uphold basic architrian-friendly and aesthetically appealing. A tectural and landscaping standards, includmake-over hinges on two key ingredients: ing sidewalks and street trees. commercial development and a big-ticket “It is still going to be corporate architecstreet redesign by the Department of ture,” said Baker, referencing the likelihood Transportation. of fast-food joints coming to the site. “But Until traffic congestion gets bad enough, they will be creating a public zone. You’ll which depends on more commercial develhave a sidewalk that didn’t exist and trees opment, DOT is unlikely to take on a total that separate the sidewalk from the street.” street redesign.

The South Main of old was an amor“I don’t think you will see much implephous sea of asphalt, with parking lots mormentation of the corridor plan until you see phing into the street. As lots redevelop, the some redevelopment,” Baker said.

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interface with the street must include defined curbs and a single parking lot entrance, limited to right turns in and out of businesses except at lights.

“We are getting some access management we didn’t get before. Things are getting better organized for the density,” Baker said.

The streetscape is improving in patchwork fashion as new businesses crop up, but over time South Main will see a unified, improved look, he said.

South Main fell into decline after the Dayco rubber plant shut down in the mid1990s, laying off more than 1,000 workers.

Mom-and-pops that once catered to Dayco’s blue-collar workforce soon began to close.

South Main devolved into an eyesore: a hodge-podge of run-down buildings, cracked parking lots over-grown with weeds and a hulking, shuttered factory deemed a Superfund site due to environmental contamination.

When Dayco was bulldozed to make way for the Super Walmart shopping complex in 2008, it was heralded as the beginning of a commercial renaissance — albeit of the fastfood and chain store variety — but revitalization stalled out of the gate.

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Waynesville’s slow march to a better South Main

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Front row seat to history

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER Randall E. Murff remembers the guns shooting at him.

“The Germans really could shoot those guns, they were good,” he said. “If you gave them 17 seconds, they’d knock you right down.”

Sitting in his living room in a quiet, unassuming home on the back roads of Sylva, Murff rocked slowly in his recliner. He was 24 years old when the Germans wanted him dead. Now 94, he vividly remembers the sights, smells and noises on D-Day, June 6, 1944. This year marks the 70th anniversary of that turning point in the European theatre of World War II, one that eventually led to the Allied defeat of the Axis powers.

The D-Day landings are considered some of the bloodiest battles of the war, with thousands of soldiers killed before the bullets stopped flying. It is also the largest seaborne invasion launched in human history, with more than 150,000 Allied troops (United States, England, Canada, etc.) storming the beaches of Normandy and punching a hole into the German western battlefront.

A nose gunner in the front of the plane, Murff was part of a B-26 bomber crew that led the first wave of attacks on D-Day. Leaving from an airbase in England early that morning, his crew headed across the English Channel for French soil occupied by the German Nazis.

“Our bombs were away at 6:23 a.m. and the boys hit the beaches at 6:30 a.m.,” he recalled. “We could see all of the boys and the ships heading for shore — it was quite a sight.”

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Born on Nov. 16, 1919, on a farm outside of Calhoun City, Miss., Murff was one of seven boys, and the second oldest in the family after his sister. Eight siblings total, all growing up during the Great Depression.

“I grew up on a farm about a mile outside of town,” he said. “Dad was a tractor mechanic and we come up through the Depression, a time when you really had to work.”

Following high school graduation, Murff went to Mississippi State University for a stint, only to then find work at a nearby Chevrolet dealership. Eventually, he turned 21 years old and was drafted. He applied to the Army Air Corps in hopes of becoming a pilot but was denied due to a scar on his eardrum.

“It really tipped my sails when I was turned down,” he said. “So, I just enlisted in the Army, where I had planned to be for the next 12 months and then go home, and that didn’t happen of course.”

The change in his plans came when he jumped on a bus to join the Army in Hattiesburg, Miss. The day was Dec. 4, 1941 when he arrived at the base. Two days later, he was officially in the Army. On the third 8 day, Dec. 7, Murff was standing in the chow

line at the cafeteria when word broke that the Japanese had attacked the United States at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.

“I had no idea where Pearl Harbor was when I heard about the attack,” he said. “My geography had not included that place.”

With the United States jumping into World War II, Murff was sent to an airplane mechanics school in Texas. He once again wanted to try and become a pilot. Desperate for pilots with war breaking out and planes being built as fast as they could, soldiers were only given eight hours of training before they had to take a solo flight test to see if they were qualified. Murff again didn’t become a pilot, but he did however end up going into gunner school in Las Vegas. From there, he enrolled in bombardier/navigator school and soon joined a twin-engine B-26 bomber crew in Tampa.

Chosen to be a nose gunner, which meant he would man a gun in the glass nose of the front of the bomber, Murff would be front row for air battles, with his observations and intuitions used to guide the plane into the correct course of action.

“I had no fear, I wasn’t afraid of any-

need oxygen masks. Though there were dangerous dogfights in mid-air, there were also missions where the plane would head below the radar, right in the crosshairs of the skilled German forces.

“We’d make a low run, stay under the radar, catch the Germans on the ground and tear’em up,” Murff said. “I was never scared.

My crew boys always told me that I could talk at a regular speed right in the heat of battle. I was as calm and collected as I am talking to you right now.”

In the week leading up to D-Day, Murff knew something big was coming down the pike.

“I had a pretty good idea because at that time we were bombing every bridge between Paris and the coast,” he said.

Right before D-Day, Murff remembers all of the planes getting three 12-inch white

and take over. So many of them were killed before they even got to the beach — they paid a heavy price.”

But even with thousands of soldiers shot dead before they could get their guns raised in the air, even with paratroopers being dropped in the wrong locations and tanks sinking in the ocean before they could provide vital cover for the troops, the Allies emerged with a pyrrhic victory. For all of their losses, the end justified the means, as German troops either were captured or retreated, opening up the western front for the eventual Allied defeat of Adolf Hitler and the Nazis.

HOMEWARD BOUND D-Day was Murff ’s 64th mission. By the time he left Europe in July 1944, he had completed 67 missions. Heading back home, he was assigned to a B-24 outfit in Boise, Idaho, then became a pistol range instructor teaching recruits in Mississippi.

One day, he was out on the range when he

“The Germans really could shoot those guns, they were good. If you gave them 17 seconds, they’d knock you right down.”

— Randall E. Murff

thing,” he confidently stated. “Fear was not in my book.”

Once he had his crew, Murff took off in the spring of 1943 to Detroit to pick up 56 brand new planes as part of the 387-fighter group. They flew back down to Georgia, up to Norfolk, Va., onward to Presque Isle, Maine, and Goose Bay, Labrador, then across the North Atlantic Ocean to a base in Greenland.

“That base was carved out of the side of a mountain and you landed right at the water level coming in to the runway,” he chuckled.

“So, when you took off, you shot down the hill and towards the ocean. If you didn’t get the plane in the air in time, you’d hit the water.”

After a couple more stops in Iceland and Scotland, the bomber crew finally landed at their base in England, Station #163, just northeast of London.

EUROPEAN BATTLE ZONE Once in England, Murff spent the next year flying missions. Some days they’d bomb airfields, while others they’d bomb bridges or key strategic points for the Germans. The planes would fly at 15,000 feet in the air — high enough to avoid enemy guns from below,but low enough where they didn’t

Randall E. Murff (third from left) and his B-26 bomber crew during World War II. Their plane was dubbed “Wham Bam.” Donated photo stripes painted around the fuselage and wings in order for the Allies to recognize their own fighters and bombers. On the morning of June 6, 1944, Murff and his crew jumped into their B-26 and headed down the English coast, turning towards France and readying themselves for battle.

“As soon as we got in range [of France], the [Germans] started shooting at us, .50caliber stuff, but we were at 12,000 feet so they couldn’t quite reach us, but we could see the tracers clearly,” Murff said. “We were hoping to bomb their big guns, but those boys were so far down in their reinforced concrete bunkers.”

Once all of their bombs were dropped, the crew headed back for the English coast.

Upon returning to the air base, they awaited word on the outcome of D-Day. “We didn’t know how bad it was. We saw all the ships and the soldiers, but we didn’t know the magnitude of it all,” Murff said.

“To tell you the truth, I don’t even see how those boys were able to take those beaches

got word of the German surrender — it was V-E Day (Victory in Europe), May 8, 1945.

Not long after, he was discharged.

Reentering civilian life, he married his high school sweetheart, Blanche, and resumed worked as a commercial truck dealer for Chevrolet. On a trip back to Mississippi from Milwaukee, Murff was transporting dump truck bodies when he rolled into Chicago. Suddenly, a lady in a nearby car was blaring her horn and waving her arms wildly out the window. The Japanese had just surrendered. It was V-J Day (Victory in Japan), Aug. 15, 1945.

“And that’s when I knew the war was over,” Murff said.

Besides Randall’s fighting in Europe, the Murff family also had three other sons in World War II. Fred was a P-51 pilot escort for B-29s over Japan, with Jim aboard a Navy ship in the Pacific and Gene in the Air Force, though the war ended before he became active.

“The sun never set

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his children — two daughters and a son.

“All three of them have worked, and have worked hard,” he said. “All three have earned a master’s degree, and they are fine children, as good as you would ever want to meet.”

Slowly rocking in his recliner, Murff lives alone these days, with his landlord

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on the Murff boys,” Randall chuckled.

With his military years behind him, Murff continued to work for Chevrolet until his retirement in 2007, at age 88.

“I had a great boss and I loved my job,” he said. “I actually knew my boss from the war. He was a pilot on a replacement crew for us.”

Sylva resident Randall E. Murff was a nose gunner on a B-26 bomber on D-Day during World War II. The 70th anniversary of the historic battle was June 6. Now 94, Murff lives a quiet life in Western North Carolina Garret K. Woodward photo

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Heritage Action events planned in WNC

working to advance conservative policy.

For information contact Heritage Action at 202.716.9738

Heritage Action, an arm of the conservative Heritage Foundation, will share lessons on how to promote the conservative agenda during meetings with Western North Carolina residents on June 24 and 25.

Heritage Action will be at Smoky Falls Lodge and Moonshine Grill Conference Room in Maggie Valley at 6 p.m. on June 24.

Refreshments will be served.

At 6 p.m. on June 25, Heritage Action representatives will speak at the South Jackson GOP headquarters at U.S. 64 East, Laurel Terrace, Unit 8, in Cashiers.

Heritage Action has a government relations team and a network of grassroots activists

Swain Schools offer free summer meals All school aged kids will be able to eat free breakfast and lunch this summer at the Middle School cafeteria. The free meals will run June 23 to Aug. 8. Breakfast will be from 7:30 to 9 a.m., while lunch will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. So make plans to come out and enjoy a free breakfast or lunch all summer long!

If you are interested or have any questions contact Jennifer Brown at 488.3129, ext. 239.

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next door to check up on him. Hanging up on a wall nearest him is a photo, the only one he has, of him and his bomber crew.

The photo is black and white, filled with young men, all full of smiles and youthful ambition, all ready for action. He’s not sure how many of them are still alive these days, but he cherishes the time they fought together. And at 94, he feels lucky to have had the life he did.

“It’s been a good life, I think I’m a very fortunate individual,” he said. “I always look on the bright side — it’s not bad at all.”

June 18-24, 2014

Murff ’s retirement didn’t come from old age, but rather due to the declining health of his wife. Struck with a severe case of Alzheimer’s disease, Blanche needed full-time care and attention. She and Randall moved to Sylva in 2008, a town and region they knew well from numerous visits to see their daughter who resides in the community.

Sadly, Blanche lost her battle with Alzheimer’s on May 4 of this year.

“We were married 71 years, four months and 15 days,” Randall smiled.

And through all of his accomplishments, he sounds the proudest when he talks about

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Sunburst’s Summer Solstice Soiree for ASAP is June 21

June 18-24, 2014

Sunburst Trout Farms will host its second Summer Solstice Soiree for ASAP from 5:30 to 10 p.m. on June 21 at its headquarters in the shadow of Cold Mountain, deep in the heart of Pisgah National Forest.

The soiree will be the first chance for the public to try the Rainbow Trout Burger, the latest product from Sunburst Trout Farms.

“I have loved ASAP since they started nearly two decades ago, and I want everybody else to share that love,” says Sally Eason, CEO of Sunburst Trout Farms.

“ASAP creates the community connections for the farmer, the chefs, the school children, and the regional retail and farmers markets. The result is expanding relationships amongst all who value local economic growth and the continuation of farming in the Southern Appalachians.”

The theme for the evening’s food will be “The Convenience of Local Food” with Sunburst’s unique local food variation on “convenience store” food.

Tickets are $100 per person, or 10-person tables are available for $850.

Reservations can be made at asapconnections.org. All proceeds will benefit ASAP. The event will happen rain or shine.

Franklin passes property tax hike

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ranklin residents will be paying a bit more on their property taxes next year following a unanimous decision by the Franklin Board of Alderman to increase the rate by 2 cents per $100. Currently, the rate is set at 25 cents, but the town had been thinking about raising it for a while.

“It’s a very small increase, but it was totally necessary,” said Mayor Bob Scott, who proposed the hike. “For years and years, the town and county both have talked about having such a low tax rate and all, and it just finally caught up with the town. If we’re going to provide services, we need to have the money to provide those services, and we need to have a cushion to provide for emergencies and contingencies.”

Former manager Warren Cabe had favored a 1-cent increase, Scott said, but he felt it needed to be a little bit higher to accomplish the goal. Increasing the property tax by 2 cents will net the town $120,000 more per year. On a $200,000 house, that means paying $40 more per year, with the total town property tax bill increasing from $500 to $540.

The money is not intended for any specific purpose, Scott said, but will rather act as a cushion to allow the county to prepare for emergencies and fiscal surprises. Part of the extra cash will go to plug the hole left where

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business license fees are now. A recently enacted state law will prevent municipalities from collecting the fees after July 1, 2015. In Franklin, they account for $35,000 of the $8 million budget.

“Quite frankly, we’re headed for some rough times right now, municipalities are,” Scott said.

The board discussed the increase at a work session and then made the vote in its regular June meeting, passing it unanimously and without discussion.

Only one member of the public voiced an opinion about the increase. Angela Moore, a former town board candidate, was not happy about it.

“Two millage points, it sounds small that way, but it’s an 8 percent tax increase, which is a lot,” Moore said. “It puts us just shy of the county tax rate, which, considering that we pay county taxes as well and the county provides services to us, for the town to be charging the same amount is a little bit outrageous.”

The Macon County property tax is 28 cents per $100, likely to jump to 38, so Franklin town residents will be paying a total of 66 cents per $100 in property taxes.

However, Scott points out, that’s low compared with other towns in the region.

Waynesville’s property tax is set at 40 cents, and the town board is considering boosting it to 43. In Bryson City, it’s 35 cents.

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“This is a very, very minor raise,” Scott said. “If it had been 10 or 15 cents, that would have just slammed people, but it’s not.”

However, countered Moore, it’s not necessary to have any increase at all. She cited “nonessential” expenditures such as festivals, Pickin’ on the Square, charitable contributions and public buildings that she believes could have been constructed on a tighter budget as examples of ways the town could trim the fat without raising taxes. But in Scott’s view, those are the things that make Franklin a desirable place to live, in turn attracting more residents and revenue.

“There was a time when businesses and industry looked very much at low tax rates,” he said. “That doesn’t seem to be as important in this day and time as what services are provided by local government, the quality of the services.”

Moore was not happy, either, that the aldermen passed the budget without any discussion after hearing her comments.

“It seems like it was an easy decision for them that didn’t involve a lot of thought,” she said.

Not so, said Scott. He’s not happy about a higher tax rate, he said, but it’s the necessary thing to do.

“I hated to do it,” he said. “I pay taxes too. When I know the quality of the services I’m getting, I’m OK.”

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Former Macon commissioners draw lessons from the past

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now-Sen. Jim Davis, were the Republican members while attendees Janet Greene, Mark West and Allen Bryson were Democrat. Much of the retrospective conversation last week centered around the importance of keeping politics from getting in the way of serving the community.

“You’ve got politics in the country where you’ve got liberal Democrats and conservative Republicans, but in Macon County you could be a Democrat or a Republican and you were probably just this close together on your political view,” said Greene, who served from 1998 to 2002.

Instead, the former board members said, they made an effort to prioritize functionality and conversation over politics. Case in point: as the top vote-getter in the 1998 election, Greene should have become commission chairman.

But, she said, “I didn’t know anything about politics” at the time. Harold Corbin, meanwhile, did. As longtime chair of the local Republican Party, he knew his way around politics and knew how to get things done. Though the 1998 board had a 3 to 2 Democratic majority, Greene turned over the chairman position to someone of the opposite affiliation.

“If I had been willing to fight for a position, we would have had nothing in those four years,” she said. “Harold knew how it worked, and he trained all of us to know how to work in politics.”

“It was because of Harold that I became a registered independent, because I wanted to vote for Harold in the elections,” said Susan Ervin, of the League of Women Voters. Until that point, she had a been a lifelong registered Democrat.

That was possible, the former members said, largely because they were good at communicating with each other and considering each other’s viewpoints.

“A lot of our success was because we did talk about things,” said Mark West, who served from 2000 to 2004.

The board had a chairman who worked fulltime as a commissioner during his 19982002 term, constantly communicating with the other members about issues being raised

June 18-24, 2014

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER group of past Macon County Commissioners spent an hour reminiscing about their triumphs and reflecting on lessons learned in front of an audience that included two Election Day hopefuls last week. The lunchtime program was the third in a series from the Macon County League of Women Voters examining the county’s growth from the perspective of those who served it during key moments.

This board, which served in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, was tasked with handling the increasing revenues coming from the building boom at a time when a good bit of infrastructure, particularly school buildings, was crumbling. Over the course of four years, the commissioners managed to build a justice center, an emergency medical services center in Nantahala, the Macon Transit station and an airport terminal. They started the Little Tennessee Greenway project, bought the property that would later house Southwestern Community College and, perhaps most importantly, built two elementary schools, funded the English building at Franklin High School and completed several other school renovation projects.

“At the time we had 100 mobile units, 100 trailers that kids went to school in,” said current Macon County Commission Chairman Kevin Corbin, who at the time was chairman of the school board while his father Harold was commission chairman. “At the time when we opened the Iotla Valley two years ago, there were zero mobile units in Macon County Schools.”

Getting those projects done took a lot of cooperation, and at the time the board was split politically with three Democrats and two Republicans. Harold Corbin, whose battle with illness kept him from attending, and

South Macon Elementary School is one of the many school construction projects the 1998-2002 Macon County Board of Commissioners undertook. Donated photo.

Martin said he admired the fact that, though, the commissioners had varying perspectives and beliefs, they were passionate enough about the good of the county to work toward what they believed should be done.

The experience, the former commissioners said, was a valuable one.

“I think everyone should help their community,” said Allen Bryson, who served from 1998 to 2006, when asked whether he’d encourage someone close to him, like his children, to run for office. “I would want my children to do that.”

But it’s an office for people who have that community service spirit, Greene said, and she gave the audience a warning about what to look for when they choose someone to represent them at any level of government.

“If you’re looking for a person who’s running for office, I want to know what they’ve done, what they’ve contributed to their community, what extracurricular activities they’ve done,” Greene said. “Do they give their time as softball or little league coaches?

Are they serving in their church? Have they volunteered their time and effort in the past to their community?”

If the answer is no, Greene said, watch out.

“If you have a person who has spent all their life making money for themselves and they go into politics, that will be their motivation,” she said.

With the desire to serve, though, things change for the better.

“It was quite an experience, eight years on the Macon County Board of Commissioners,” Bryson said.

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The good ole days

and decisions to be made. And the other members, in turn, were willing to listen to other points of view.

“We would all voice our opinion and we would give and take back and forth until we could come to a clarity,” Greene said.

Communication with community members was also an important tool for success, Greene said. Not everyone liked every decision that was made, but explaining why an action was taken often helped alleviate resentful feelings afterward.

“If you could tell them why you were doing what you were doing they may not like it still, but they were far more willing to accept what you were doing,” Greene said.

That interparty give and take stood out to Democratic Senate Candidate Jane Hipps, who was there to see a League meeting in action before heading up for the candidates forum in September.

“I thought what was interesting was the way people worked together and cooperated and had the needs of the people in mind,” Hipps said. “I thought that was mainly it. The fact that the Democrats were in the majority and yet they felt it was important to have the real leadership skills, and that made a positive impact.”

“I think it’s useful, the past perspective of our county commissioners, former county commissioners,” said John Martin, a Libertarian candidate for Macon County commissioner. “I wanted to hear their thinking on matters and their experiences that helped form their decisions and helped them in the position as county commissioner.”

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Angel Medical thrift store closes

Lunch is Back!

11:30 A.M.-2:30 P.M. DINNER NIGHTLY AT 4 P.M. MONDAY-SATURDAY

Weekly Drink Specials Classic local American comfort foods, craft beers & small batch bourbons & whiskey.

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MARGARITA MONDAYS: $6 margaritas TINI TUESDAYS: $6 house specialty martini's WINEDOWN WEDNESDAYS: 1/2 price bottles ($60 and under) THROW DOWN THURSDAYS: $2 domestic beers $3 specialty beers

Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. • Dinner Nightly at 4 p.m. • CLOSED ON SUNDAY 454 HAZELWOOD AVENUE • WAYNESVILLE Call 828-452-9191 for reservations

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The Angel Medical Center Thrift Store in Franklin will close for good on June 27.

The store has been one of the main fundraising means for the AMC Auxiliary, which supports a variety of programs and projects at the hospital. However, financial hardships at the store convinced staff and AMC administration to close and look for other ways to raise money for the Auxiliary.

Some of the recent projects that the AMC Auxiliary funded include a $20,000 donation to the new Cancer Center, stress test equipment, hygiene kits for patients, books for new mothers and scholarships to AMC staff. Â

Precautions against norovirus urged The Haywood County Health Department is urging the public to take precautions against norovirus after several cases of the disease were confirmed in the county.

More than 90 residents and staff of Silver Bluff Nursing Home in Canton have experienced norovirus symptoms, and the health department is investigating another outbreak with similar symptoms at an additional facility within the county, according to the Haywood County Health Department. “We are encouraging citizens to wash hands carefully with soap and water, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers,

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Sylva traffic patterns to change

Beginning June 26, the left lane on Sylva’s Main Street from Landis to Mill streets will become left-turn only.

Changing the left lane to left turn only from Landis Street to Mill Street will address safety concerns regarding the speed of traffic in downtown and discourage through traffic in the left lane. Additionally, diagonal parking along Main Street is accessed through the left lane, and restricting through traffic from the left lane could reduce the number of conflicts for vehicles backing from the parking space.

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dirty linens, and always before food preparation and eating,� said Haywood County Health director Carmine Rocco. “We’re also encouraging people who are experiencing symptoms to not prepare food or provide health care while they are sick.�

Norovirus is a highly contagious gastrointestinal virus that is spread through contact with an infected person, contaminated food or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces.

The virus causes your stomach or intestines or both to get inflamed (acute gastroenteritis).

This leads you to have stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea and to throw up.

For information contact the Haywood County Health Department at 828.452.6675.

Additional information on norovirus is also available on the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/norovirus/about/index.html.

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Since its 1997 opening, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort has been an economic powerhouse for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Hopes are, a second one in Murphy will amplify the effect. Margaret Hester photo

Project on budget and on schedule

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“Our comfort level was high in terms of our ability to bring it internal.”

— Ray Rose, Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise chairman

To qualify for Extra Help, income must be limited to $1,458.75 a month for an individual or $1,966.25 a month for a married couple living together. Additionally, the total resources must be limited to $13,440 for an individual or $26,860 for a married couple living together. (Resources do not include a primary residence or a vehicle.)

If you believe someone you know may qualify for the Extra Help program, SHIIP can help them apply. For further information, call John at the Haywood County SHIIP office at 356-2833.

Smoky Mountain News

holds five to 10 meetings per week with people representing different parts of the project, sometimes on the site and sometimes not. On average, Rose said, he’s at the site two times per week.

“It’s really about top-level meetings,” he said, “and of course you visit the field, but much of the work is done in planning sessions.”

When completed, the casino will have a 300-bed hotel and a 50,000-square-foot gaming floor, with the entire complex including 125,000 square feet. That’s about one-third the size of the gaming floor at Harrah’s in Cherokee, but the casino is still expected to pull down plenty of extra cash while providing a quicker commute for casino employees who live in outlying areas of the Qualla Boundary.

Ground broke on the project in fall 2013, and dirt-moving began in earnest in January.

The casino is expected to open in the summer of 2015. Rose doesn’t expect that the management change will have any effect on that schedule.

“The project is going well,” he said. “On schedule, on budget.”

The Extra Help program can increase cost savings by paying for all or part of the monthly premiums and annual deductibles and can provide lower prescription co-payments under a Medicare prescription drug plan.

June 18-24, 2014

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER wo months after a management shakeup in which the Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise removed construction manager Sneed, Robertson and Associates from the casino construction project in Murphy, the project is on time and on budget, according to TCGE chairman Ray Rose.

“It was done for a very good reason, and that’s to take pressure off the budget,” Rose said.

Rose declined to say which portions of the $110 million construction project were causing the problem but said that “overall budget pressures” forced the TCGE to make some cuts. They settled on the construction management position, which accounts for roughly 2 percent of the total budget, opting to handle those responsibilities internally.

Lumpy Lambert, a TCGE member who will also become general manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino and Hotel when it opens, is heading up the TGCE team, Rose said.

“Our comfort level was high in terms of our ability to bring it internal,” said Rose, who himself has experience in construction management, operations and the military.

While Rose maintains that the decision was purely budget-driven, SRA president and co-owner Eric Sneed said he suspects political motivations, maintaining that eliminating the construction management position isn’t the way to go when faced with financial troubles.

“Whenever there’s concern with budgets or a budget or project becomes financially strapped or challenged, typically that introduces even more challenge into a project, and that manager role becomes even more important,” Sneed said. “You’ve got to have someone there who is living and breathing the details of that project.”

On a large project like the casino, the con-

struction manager acts as the owner’s representative, handling front-end work like ordering the necessary environmental assessments, making sure land use rules are followed and selecting designers, architects and construction companies. Later on in the project, the manager keeps an eye on the crews to make sure they’re not cutting corners and that they’re following all the applicable codes.

“If we were still there, we would be fulltime engaged on that project,” Sneed said.

According to Rose, though, fulltime engagement isn’t necessary. The TGCE team

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WCU awaits state budget, bemoans staff retention

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Western Carolina University is sweating out the North Carolina General Assembly’s budgetary process, but perhaps not as much as some institutions of higher education.

“A lot of our sister institutions are facing significant budget reductions,” WCU Chancellor David Belcher said earlier this month as the school’s board of trustees gathered for a meeting.

Like other universities in the UNC system, WCU is waiting to find out its financial forecast for the next year. But even if the state slashes funds flowing to public universities, the school in Cullowhee is buoyed by one thing: rising enrollment numbers.

“It’s not just nice to have enrollment growth, it’s absolutely imperative,” stressed Belcher. “It’s absolutely key.”

While university officials hope for the best as the budget is hashed out in Raleigh, and the additional revenue due to increased enrollment helps the school’s financial outlook, there is one issue that will take more than money to solve. Currently, North Carolina universities are not allowed to offer raises. When faculty members begin looking for higher pay, they have to look beyond their current post.

“We’re losing our people, they’re leaving us to go to other institutions in North Carolina,” Belcher told his trustees.

“Connecticut is bragging in the newspaper

Folkmoot USA holds June 26 open house Folkmoot USA will host an Open House from 4:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, to celebrate Haywood County’s generous donation of the historic Hazelwood School to the cultural organization.

On June 16, the Haywood County Board of Commissioners approved the donation of the historic Hazelwood School facilities to Folkmoot USA. According to county tax records, the facility is worth approximately $1.3 million. This marks the first time that Folkmoot USA has had a permanent home in its 31-year history of offering its annual summer festival and other events celebrating international culture.

“We have operated as tenants in this facility for more than a decade,” explained Karen Babcock, Executive Director of Folkmoot USA. “Ownership opens the door to both new responsibilities and exciting opportunities.”

By fixing the roof, renovating the auditorium and making other facility changes, Folkmoot USA can achieve its goals of offering events year-round and operating a center that brings the local, regional and international communities together. Some of the

about how many faculty members it’s stolen from Chapel Hill. That’s why salary is such a critical issue.”

That point was driven home by Leroy Kaufman, associate professor of accounting and the chair-elect of the WCU’s Faculty Senate. He reported that faculty members found the lack of a raise in recent budget cycles to be “disenchanting, disheartening and discouraging.”

“It’s a concern with the faculty,” Kaufman said. “Basically, for the longer term faculty, the only way for them to get a raise is to go on the move.”

WCU’s Board of Trustees met in early June. Jeremy Morrison photo

Robin Hitch, a computer consultant at Hunter Library and chair of WCU’s Staff Senate, had similar reports to offer to trustees.

She relayed how one faculty member was moving to another university because he was unable to make more money in Cullowhee.

“Charlotte’s getting him. He’s getting, like, a 16 percent raise just leaving our university. It’s so sad that we can’t keep our faculty,” Hitch said. “It really is a great place to work and I wish we could keep more of our faculty and staff from leaving.”

— Jeremy Morrison, News Editor

possibilities include hosting guests and creating venues for community and international events and performances. Folkmoot USA has already secured $167,000 in cash support to help initiate these changes.

“We are very grateful to Haywood County for providing the largest donation in Folkmoot USA’s history,” said Rose Johnson, president of the board of Folkmoot USA. “The open house is an opportunity to celebrate this amazing gift and also start the conversation about the future. We are thoroughly committed to utilizing this historic school facility to serve the community. We’re eager for people to come see the center and offer their ideas.”

Folkmoot USA supporters, former teachers and students at the historic Hazelwood School, Hazelwood neighbors, and the general public are all welcome to attend the open house. This free event will include light refreshments.

Nominations for new Folkmoot USA board members are also now being accepted.

Terms will begin in September 2014. Forms may be picked up during the open house or requested via phone or email.

For more information about the open house or board member nominations, call 828.452.2997 or email info@folkmoot.com.

New tax law brings bevy of sales tax expansions, eliminates business fees

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SERVICE CONTRACTS

Another Swain sheriff candidate joins race A new candidate has joined the field of potentials for the Swain County sheriff ’s race. In addition to Republican Sheriff Curtis Cochran and Democratic challenger Chuck McMahan, the November ballot will also feature unaffiliated candidate Odell Chastain.

“I’m running on the values of the Constitution, to support

MOBILE HOMES

“Sometimes it’s hard to see what effect these things have until they actually go into effect,” he said. “I would not think it’s a big deal, but I’m not the one being charged.”

ELECTRICITY Forshee’s customers wouldn’t just be paying the extra sales tax on their bike repair bill.

They’d see the increase in other areas of their lives, from plumbing to window installation to car repair, and a different section of the law would mean they’d also see a tax increase on electricity.

Currently, electric companies pay a 3.22 percent business license fee on their gross receipts, an amount that is automatically added into the customer’s bill. So, the bill is 3.22 percent higher than what the company actually counts as revenue. Then, an extra 3

“A consumption tax is a more predictable source of revenue, so it would be easier for legislators to estimate budgets.”

— Sen. Jim Davis, R-Franklin

percent sales tax is added onto the subtotal, which includes the 3.22 percent. Combined, the current tax constitutes an effective rate of 6.32 percent.

Under the new law, the 3.22 percent gross receipts tax would go away, but the 3 percent sales tax would turn into 7 percent. The electric rate that customers see on their bill will go down by 3.22 percent, but the overall total for which they are charged will increase by 0.68 percent. On a $100 electric bill, that would mean paying an extra 68 cents.

“The new law is really nothing more than shifting funds, and so as far as we’re concerned it’s pretty neutral,” said Ken Thomas, manager of marketing and communications for Haywood Electric Membership Co-op.

and defend the Constitution,” Chastain said of his candidacy.

Chastain secured his unaffiliated slot on the ballot by gathering the required 412 petition signatures. The candidate presented the Swain County elections office with the signatures on June 9, more than two weeks ahead of the June 27 deadline.

Chastain is a retired law enforcement officer. For 18 years he served as a deputy in Lincoln, Gaston and Swain counties.

For 10 years he served with the Bryson City Police. The candidate also spent eight Vietnam-era years in the Army and, more recently, worked for the North Carolina Department

Mobile and manufactured home sales are another area where new taxes will apply.

Currently, the sales tax is set at 2 percent with a $300 per floor cap. So, the most sales tax somebody buying a single-wide trailer would pay is $300, and the highest tax bill for a double-wide is $600.

Under the new law, the cap would disappear and the tax rate would go to 4.75 percent, the standard sales tax rate. On a $40,000 double-wide, that means a jump from $600 to $1,900. That’s a change that has Queen angry.

“The rich get a tax break and the working men and women in North Carolina get to pay the full fee,” the representative said. “Never has there been [full] sales tax on a mobile home.”

Davis doesn’t see it that way. He sees the expansion of sales tax as a move to a more fair way of doing things and believes the states’ ability to try different taxation schemes is one the country’s major strengths.

“I would say you have in the United States the ability of the states to do different things.

It’s a great laboratory to see if that’s true or not,” he said.

However, according to Amy Clark, office manager for Board of Trade in Canton, which sells foreclosed, repossessed and new mobile homes, the new law is causing some issues for customers, many of whom are lower on the socioeconomic scale.

“Especially when they’re looking on the used end and just trying to buy something on the used end and not have to finance it, that’s when it really affects them,” Clark said.

The law does have an exception for mobile homes sold straight from an individual or bank, so Clark has seen customers steer toward purchases that wouldn’t cost them an extra $2,000.

“It’s an extra cost,” Clark said. “They don’t see it as the home’s value is worth that extra money on some of them for them to put into it, and the banks aren’t necessarily adjusting their price, either, to compensate for the extra tax.”

The N.C. Manufactured Housing Association is planning to fight the tax increase, Clark said, “but till then we’re stuck with that.”

of Health and Human Services.

“If I’m hired by the people to be sheriff, I will protect our guns and our rights,” Chastain said, contending that his opponents have not made such a promise to voters. “No one’s ever said they would protect our guns.”

In November, the unaffiliated candidate will go up against Swain’s incumbent sheriff — Cochran, who had no primary challengers — and McMahan, who beat three other Democratic candidates during the May primary.

— Jeremy Morrison, News Editor

Smoky Mountain News

Previously, businesses that provide laborbased services, such as car or bike repairs, had collected sales tax on the parts used to make the repairs but had not charged it for the labor rate. Under the new law, the whole bill will be subject to the 4.75 percent sales and use tax after Oct. 1.

“It’s gonna hurt. And not really me — it’s going to hurt my customers,” said Darrin Sutton, owner of Dillsboro Automotive. “I’d just have to pass it on. Labor’s a big portion on some jobs.”

Sutton couldn’t say exactly what his total revenue’s labor-to-parts ratio is — coming up with that number would entail a lot of time spent poring over the last year’s Quickbooks files — but on some tickets it’s quite high. For example, he said, it takes about seven hours to put an intake gasket in, and there’s barely any parts charges included in that bill. By contrast, the bill he was looking at before answering a call from the Smoky Mountain News charged $670 for parts and $200 for labor.

In some respects, Sutton said, the new law might not hurt his business much, since having a functioning automobile is a necessity for most people. But for someone who’s on the bubble financially, an extra 4.75 percent could be the difference.

“Anything that hurts the customers can hurt the business,” Sutton said. “Granted, most people have to fix their cars, but if it reaches to a certain point someone can’t fix it, what do you do? You can’t fix it if you ain’t got the money.”

For Dave Forshee, co-owner of Smoky Mountain Cycles in Franklin, the possibility of adding sales tax to his labor for bike repairs doesn’t sound so bad. Bike repairs are cheaper than car repairs, so even an expensive $200 bill would rack up only $8.50 in sales tax. He doesn’t expect that would much deter someone from fixing their bike, but, he cautioned, you never know.

Senate: 38-7 House: 84-29

June 18-24, 2014

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER onsumers will start seeing some extras added to their subtotals as a result of a state law adding sales tax to a variety of items that had previously not been taxed, or were taxed at a lower level. Among them are mobile and manufactured homes, electric bills and “service contracts,” which is basically a catch-all entailing labor costs for everything from car repairs to plumbing.

These increases are part of the 48-page Omnibus Tax Law Changes, signed into Jim Davis law May 29. It’s the same law that prevented municipalities from collecting fees for business licenses.

According to Sen. Jim Davis, R-Franklin, the change is just part of an overall effort to shift to a lower sales tax Joe Sam Queen spread across more products and services.

In 2012, the state sales tax rate changed to 4.75 percent from its previous 5.75 percent.

Eventually, he’d like to see income tax disappear and sales and use taxes expand to include a wider spectrum of goods and services.

“A consumption tax is a more predictable source of revenue, so it would be easier for legislators to estimate budgets,” Davis said, “but it also takes the legislature out of the business of getting special breaks for the companies, and that’s where the legislators get in the business of picking winners and losers, and we don’t think that’s best way to run a railroad.”

Ultimately, Davis said, his goal would be to transition from income-based to consumptionbased taxing with some kind of lower limit in place so that people are only taxed on the money they spend that is above that amount.

Davis, along with local legislators Rep. Michele Presnell, R-Burnsville, and Rep. Roger West, R-Marble, voted with the majority of 38

senators and 84 representatives to pass the bill. Rep. Joe Sam Queen, D-Waynesville, joined the 29 nos in the House vote.

“The lower your tax bracket, the higher your rate increase has been,” Queen said. The reason, he said, is that people who make less money spend a greater proportion of it on necessities. An oil change costs about the same for a millionaire as it does for a fast food worker.

YES • Sen. Jim Davis, R-Franklin • Rep. Michele Presnell, R-Burnsville • Rep. Roger West, R-Marble NO • Rep. Joe Sam Queen, D-Waynesville

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Tax trade-off

How they voted

Because it’s an amount tacked onto the receipts of all power companies and then simply passed along to the state, Thomas said, it won’t much affect the business. However, he said, he feels that even a small increase like 0.68 percent is noteworthy in a struggling economy.

“In this economy with so many folks struggling already, I feel it’s significant,” he said.

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news

Haywood business community rallies around new economic development model

Saturday June 21

Haywood County has turned over the role of economic development to a new board comprised of business leaders, with the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce now at the helm. Becky Johnson photo

A

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Smoky Mountain News

June 18-24, 2014

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BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER cross-section of Haywood County business leaders took over the reins of economic development this month, with county government passing the torch to the Greater Haywood County Chamber of Commerce to blaze a new path of economic prosperity.

The shift in who will carry out economic development functions follows a larger trend to tap the prowess of the business community in an arena they know best. The multi-faceted quest for economic development — to bolster commerce, grow industry, encourage entrepreneurs, attract new companies, boost existing ones and create new jobs — can use all the know-how it can get from every possible sector.

Greg Boothroyd, chairman of the Haywood County chamber and advertising director of The Smoky Mountain News, thanked the more than two dozen players who invested their time and energy forging a new model for the Haywood County Economic Development Commission over the past 14 months.

“Consider this evening as a convocation as we all enter this next chapter in the EDC of our county,” Boothroyd said.

To CeCe Hipps, the president of the chamber, it’s the talents of those brought to the table that will make the new economic development model a success.

The first meeting of the new economic development commission last week was more than ceremonial. The energy was catching, the enthusiasm was real, the excitement was clear.

“Your leadership, experience and dedication are needed for us to be economically successful in Haywood County and to fulfill the economic development mission,” Hipps told the new EDC board at the meeting. “Our economy is made up of different business sectors, so we need people from those different sectors represented at the table.”

The new EDC board numbers 22, but it takes that many to ensure a cross-section of all the important economic players — manufacturing, tourism, construction, agriculture, finance, utilities and small business, along with representa-

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tives from major institutions in the county, like Haywood Community College, Duke Energy and Lake Junaluska Conference Center.

Economic development efforts, from salaries to marketing to overhead, will continue to be funded by the county to the tune of $220,000. Those costs are the same as they have been for the past few years. But rather than running economic development as an in-house function of government, the county will give the money to the chamber to carry out the role on a day-to-day basis.

Mission statement: The mission statement for the economic development commission will stay the same under the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce: “To foster a healthy and prosperous economy and quality of life for the community through the development of capital investment, job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities while supporting existing businesses and industry.”

Mark Clasby, the Haywood County economic development director, will remain at the helm but will become an employee of the chamber of commerce rather than the county. Clasby, who is currently president of the N.C. Economic Developers Association, has been over the Haywood County economic development efforts for a decade now. Clasby was praised for how far he has brought economic development during this tenure.

“We agree you need not find fault in how it was being done in the past in order to find a way to do it better,” said Mark Swanger, chairman of the Haywood County commissioners, who will serve on the new EDC. The retooling had the potential to be controversial. A first stab at restructuring the EDC 10 years ago was met with resistance. But this time, the new model was embraced unanimously, with any reservations kept private.

“It’s been said before in Haywood County

— we argue about it and argue about it and we invariably get it right,” said Gavin Brown, the mayor of Waynesville. “I have an abiding faith and belief in Haywood County.”

The former county economic development commission was disbanded this month to make way for the new one under the chamber.

“There are other ways to skin a cat,” said Ron Leatherwood with Clark & Leatherwood construction firm. “We have a clean palate to come up with great ideas to move the county forward.”

The new model adopted in Haywood is a common one throughout the state, particularly in larger communities with active and robust chambers of commerce that are positioned to take the lead on economic development backed with monetary support from local government.

“Economic development is a team sport,” said John Geib, the director of Duke Energy’s economic development arm and the keynote speaker at last week’s meeting of the new EDC. “I think business people like talking to other business people.”

Geib’s pep talk congratulated the business stakeholders on making a decision to come together.

The transition recognizes the stake that the private sector has in ensuring a businessfriendly climate within their own community.

“We benefit a lot from good economic development,” said Danny Wingate with Haywood Builders Supply, who sits on the new EDC. “Healthy economies are good for all of us,” added John Tench with HomeTrust Bank, who will also serve on the new EDC. The merger of the EDC under the chamber moved rapidly, but systematically, over the past 14 months. A task force researched models elsewhere around the state and thoroughly examined whether the county’s economic development arm would be better served under the umbrella of the chamber.

The first goal of the new EDC will be rebranding the county’s image and marketing materials, creating a new economic development logo, website and promotional materials that have more “pop,” said Bruce Johnson, owner of Champion Supply.

The chamber is well-suited for this project after going through a major rebranding of its own two years ago.

“A big part of this moving forward will be the marketing,” Hipps said.

The new EDC also includes a cross-section of the county geographically, from Canton to Maggie Valley.

“I hope I can bring a new spirit of cooperation and working with our partners in the rest of Haywood County,” said Ron DeSimone, a contractor and the mayor of Maggie Valley, who sits on the new EDC. Under the agreement, the county or the chamber could decide they don’t like the arrangement at any time.

“As long as county commissioners are seeing results in economic development, I think they will continue to fund it,” Hipps said.

Jeremy Morrison photo

Commissioners field trip to Haywood justice center

Jackson looking to Haywood’s ‘Taj Mahal’

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Jackson County commissioners have been pointed toward the Haywood County Justice Center as a model of excellence, but when the project was undertaken a decade ago, it was a lightening rod for public criticism.

Dubbed the “Taj Mahal of Justice,” the $18 million Haywood justice center was criticized for both its scale and scope.

Heery, the same consultant now being used by Jackson, was accused of catering too heavily on what the legal community said they wanted, rather than what was truly needed. County commissioners in office at the time faced a deep bench of challengers f who campaigned in part on the justice center being excessive. Every incumbent in office lost their seat.

Haywood’s three-story justice center has five courtrooms and two smaller hearing rooms. Heery’s original design even called for a fourth floor but that was scrapped.

According to the 2013 court calendar, the

five main courtrooms in Haywood were never all in use simultaneously, and it was rare to have four in use at once. Most of the time, only two or three are in use.

Heery was hired by Jackson County to conduct a space assessment for the justice center there late last year for a $34,000 fee.

Jackson County has two mid-sized courtrooms. But on the rare occasion, three courtrooms have been needed the same day, pressing the county commissioners’ meeting room down the hall into service as a venue for legal proceedings. Other shortcomings in Jackson’s courthouse include inadequate metal detectors when entering the building, not enough space for record storage, and cramped quarters for court-support roles, such as the clerk of court, register of deeds and district attorney.

Finding space could mean a physical expansion of the justice center, creative remodeling or off-loading county departments that share the justice center to a new location to free up room for the growing court system.

— Becky Johnson, reporter

Franklin’s Finest 55+ Community

June 18-24, 2014

BY J EREMY MORRISON N EWS E DITOR f Sitting in the judge’s seat, Jackson County Commissioners Chairman Jack Debnam took a look around. He absorbed the courtroom, glanced down at Commissioner Doug Cody on the witness stand and County Manager Chuck Wooten in the jury box.

“I kinda like it up here,” said Debnam.

“Don’t get used to that,” joked Superior Court Judge Bradley Letts.

The judge finished up describing the particulars of the courtroom, before continuing with his guided tour of the Haywood County Justice Center. He proudly showed the Jackson officials the relatively new center’s various bells and whistles and efficiencies — what Cody would later refer to as “an impressive facility.”

The tour had begun when the Jackson crew’s fieldtrip arrived via bus and was shown into the building.

“There’s only one entrance, everybody has to come in one entrance,” Letts told the group as they progressed through a metal detector.

“This is the newer design, the newer approach.”

The Jackson commissioners were interested in getting a look around Haywood’s justice center because they’re considering getting

files are there.”

The judge next showed off the magistrate’s courtroom. He explained how jury pools could be quarantined in various spaces.

He pointed out safety measures and technological features.

“This whole courtroom is wired,” Letts said as he demonstrated how a video system in one courtroom functioned.

The judge also showed the visitors from Jackson the building’s administrative accommodations. Letts, himself, enjoys a wall full of window with an overlook of Waynesville.

“Can I check that out?” Wooten asked.

“Sure,” the judge said. “I will confess to having the best view in the courthouse.”

After arriving back in Jackson County, Wooten noted that the Haywood facility was a bit more than his commissioners would be looking to get into.

“We could take our justice center and sit it inside their justice center,” he would tell his commissioners later.

But now, the Jackson commissioners have something to chew on, something to visualize. Wooten is estimating it will take about a year to consider what features to incorporate into the new justice center and to design the facility. Somewhere in that process a price will be settled upon — Wooten’s ballparking the project at a minimum of $15 million — and commissioners will then have to decide if Jackson County is really getting a new justice center.

“Somebody rolls out a number,” Wooten said, “the commissioners have to say, ‘Alright, are we going to do this?’”

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Jackson County Manager Chuck Wooten checks out courtroom specifics in the jury box during his commissioners’ fieldtrip to Haywood.

one themselves. According to a recent needs assessment — conducted by Heery International, the same company that built the Haywood justice center — Jackson’s current facility is about 35,000 square feet too small, not secure enough and fails to meet modern accessibility standards.

Judge Letts was a natural to lead the justice center tour for the Jackson group. As a Superior Court judge, he operates out of both counties and is familiar with each facility.

“He’s the one that kind of encouraged the commissioners over here to do the needs assessment,” Wooten explained.

Letts first showed the Jackson officials a first floor security room. They filed into the small, dimly lit room with a bank of video monitors displaying scenes from throughout the building.

“Zoom in,” Letts instructed a guard. “You can almost read the paper on the counsel table.”

The commissioners watched and listened as the building’s security system was explained. The guard stationed in the security room explained various features and toggled camera angles for varying views.

“There’s panic buttons everywhere in the building, too,” the guard said.

Next, the fieldtrip was shown the clerk of court’s facilities. The clerk’s courtroom is located conveniently near her offices. It was described to the tour group as “a very important room,” “a great asset” and a room that is used “almost every day for something.”

“You have a good design, a good flow,” Letts said. “All of her staff is there, all of her

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Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

Remind leaders that we are tired of political games

BY KATHY ROSS G UEST COLUMNIST n the last few weeks, I’ve been stuck between speaking my mind and doing what is best for my community. I hate it when systems operate that way, always believing wide-open debate is the best and most honest way to run government.

But the remake of the Pigeon River Fund’s board put me up against that principle.

In 1997 the fund was created when the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issued a license for what was then Carolina Power & Light, later Progress Energy, to use the Pigeon River to generate power at its Walters Plant. In exchange, the owner, now Duke Power, is to set aside money each year, building a fund to improve water quality, access and education.

The money can be used in the French Broad River basin, meaning Haywood, Buncombe, Madison and a small part of Henderson counties. Because the Pigeon River and the Walters plant are in Haywood, more than half of the funds each year are to go to this county’s projects. Each spring and fall, the board meets, reviews and decides on requests for this money, funding projects from the schools’ Kids in the Creek to testing and monitoring water quality.

I’ve spent five years serving with the Pigeon River Fund.

When members’ terms expired, we discussed candidates for replacement, consulted with the community and submitted suggestions to the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, whose secretary had final approval. Until this year, those suggestions were approved. Political affiliations were never discussed.

This spring, that changed. DENR administration decided to remake the Pigeon River Fund board. Two members whose

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GOP works to make Haywood better

To the Editor: This is in response to Mitchell E. Powell’s letter to the editor, “‘Group is hurting Haywood GOP,” in the June 4 edition of The Smoky Mountain News.

Powell attended only a few meetings in his short stint with the Haywood County Republican Party. While campaigning for vice chair he said he was against any new taxes, yet in his short time in office he was the only executive committee member to vote during straw polls in favor of two proposed tax increases.

Many believe this action placed him far left of the mainstream Republicans.

I don’t recall anyone making him the spokesman for all the citizens of Haywood County or the Republican Party, as he would have you to believe in his letter.

Most people I have talked to in our county want to see liberties preserved, low taxes, smaller government, less spending and low debt. I hear this from Democrats, Republicans, Independents and Libertarians from all walks of life. This is mainstream in our county and not a small group.

As for his statements about my wife Debbie and I causing consistent problems at every meeting as well as statements regarding

first terms had expired last year — and who we had strongly recommended be appointed for second terms — were replaced. And three members whose terms were not finished were also replaced. Except for the representative from DENR and the two from Duke Power, I was the only “survivor.”

It wasn’t thanks to my brain or work ethic, for the three Haywood County residents removed from the board — retired Mountain Research Station director Bill Teague, retired Waynesville town manager Lee Galloway, and retired banker Peggy Melville — were as hard working and intelligent as any community leaders I’ve known. Apparently, the skill needed to hold onto my position was my Republican Party registration.

The changes stunned Democrats and Republicans here. A leading Republican described Galloway, Melville and Teague as some of the finest public servants he’d ever worked with. And, he said, while the governor’s political party had tremendous appointment power, it usually waited until terms were expiring before completely remaking a board. It was a level of partisan politics the board had not experienced. My appointment had been approved under the previous Democratic administration, as was that of my predecessor, another Republican.

I considered resigning in protest. But there was a problem.

A number of requests for money were up for review, including some exceptionally good projects. If I resigned, Haywood County would have no resident representative on the board. So I stayed and refused comment until the grant process was completed. But I never wanted my silence to imply agreement with the changes.

I’m angry and embarrassed by the shenanigans within my own party and the Republican governor’s administration.

There are some bright spots in this story, however.

First, the new board members — who may have had no

votes, they are flat-out lies from Powell. In all the years I have attended meetings, I have never voted as an executive member. Debbie is an asset to the Republican Party. She has served in many offices in the party, each time winning the seat with unanimous support.

She has worked to bring people into the organization. We have gone from a handful to standing room only in many meetings. She knows full well that the precinct chairs are the lifeblood of the party. During executive meetings everyone may not agree on every issue, but discussion where the issues are debated is healthy and helpful to organizations.

The Republican Party has many people who will work hard to make this a better county. I hope our party will grow in strength, unity, and number over the next few months.

Denny King Canton

Science helps us find God’s truths To the Editor: I am writing this letter for the sakes of my fellow creationists and any questioning minds who may be concerned about an argument, by Neil deGrasse Tyson, mentioned in the last edition of “The Naturalist’s Corner.” I should note that I have great respect for Tyson’s work

idea of the process behind their appointments — are dedicated and intelligent people. With only a month between their appointments and the time to decide on the spring grants, they worked hard and fast, visiting sites, thoroughly reviewing applications. They came to the first meeting ready and educated, and their questions and comments were keen. I will be honored to work with them.

Second, the grant process went well, and Haywood will receive well over half of the funds allocated for projects ranging from better river access at the Canton Recreation Park to shoreline stabilization at Lake Junaluska.

Third, DENR is trying to make peace with this controversial decision. There have been apologies and letters sent acknowledging the contributions of members who were removed so abruptly from the board. DENR’s leaders have recognized the importance of Haywood County to this process and realize folks here are upset.

So why speak out at all, now that the deed is done but Haywood’s interests seem to be protected? Largely because protesting reminds our leaders that some of us really mean it when we say we’re tired of political games. We truly want Democrats and Republicans to focus on the best interests of this state and country. We don’t want party affiliations to trump integrity, work ethic and sound decisions. And we plan to hold people accountable if they don’t take those expectations seriously.

I expect better of state leadership, particularly when my own party is in charge. Now let’s see if our leaders can live up to those kinds of expectations.

(Kathy Ross is a farmer’s wife, a mother and a former journalist who lives in Haywood County. She can be reached at kathymnross@gmail.com.)

LETTERS in the field of science, and I do not profess to have anywhere near his degree of knowledge and experience in this field. However, when presented with a direct attack on my views, for which I have a reasonable response, I believe I have a responsibility to make that response known.

The argument in question is stated as follows in the article:

“According to Tyson as narrator: ‘… But if the universe were only 6,500 years old, how could we see the light from anything more distant than the Crab Nebula? We couldn’t.

There wouldn’t have been enough time for the light to get to Earth from anywhere farther away than 6,500 light-years in any direction.

That’s just enough time for light to travel through a tiny portion of our Milky Way galaxy.

‘To believe in a universe as young as 6 or 7,000 years old is to extinguish the light from most of the galaxy. Not to mention the light from all the hundred billion other galaxies in the observable universe.’”

This argument supposedly proves creation impossible because it shows that the earth must be older than the time it would take for light to reach the farthest visible star. This

may seem to be a daunting argument to young-earth creationists particularly, but there is a simply elegant answer which can be found by carefully reading the creation story as recorded in the Bible.

On the first day of the six days of creation, “God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light” (Gen. 1:3). However, it was not until the fourth day of creation on which “God made two great lights — the greater light [the sun] to govern the day and the lesser light [the moon] to govern the night. He also made the stars.” (Gen. 1:16) Here we see that God made the light waves, the visible energy by which we see, before He made the physical light sources of the sun, moon and stars. Thus, it would take no time at all for the light from stars even billions of light years from earth to be seen on earth because it was already there, before the stars ever existed.

I cannot feign to answer all the questions science may raise. Although I trust in and rely on science daily, I am willing to admit that science is an invention of flawed mankind to help him discover the truth of God’s creation.

Scientific views and principles change and alter, but God is truth, whether or not you believe in Him. It is my hope and prayer that all would come to know the glorious and loving God of creation.

Joshua Snead Waynesville

tasteTHEmountains

A TASTE OF NEW ORLEANS 67 Branner Ave., Waynesville, 828.246.0885. 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week. Curtis Henry opened A Taste of New Orleans to cater to the locals and become the place that’s always open that you can rely on for different, flavorful dishes every day. Serving Cajun, French and Creole Cuisine in a lovingly restored space, Curtis looks forward to serving you up a delicious dish soon.

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.

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; slowsimmered 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 take-out available. Call-ahead seating available.

opinion

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

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

828.452.1313. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday through 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.

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE 454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch served 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner nightly from 4 p.m.

Closed on Sunday. We specialize in handcut, all natural steaks, fresh fish, and other classic American comfort foods that are made using only the finest local and sustainable ingredients available. We also feature a great selection of craft beers from local artisan brewers, and of course an extensive selection of small batch bourbons

June 18-24, 2014

CLASSIC American Faire

Flame Grilled Steaks

Salads and more Join us on Thursday nights for live Bluegrass/String Band performances.

Smoky Mountain News

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828.452.313 303 South Main Street, Waynesville NC 19

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Food Truck-Stravaganza!

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617 W. Main St., Sylva, NC www.madbatterfoodandfilm.com

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June 18-24, 2014

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Smoky Mountain News 20

and whiskey. The Barrel is a friendly and casual neighborhood dining experience where our guests enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank.

BREAKING BREAD CAFÉ 6147 Hwy 276 S. Bethel (at the Mobil Gas Station) 828.648.3838 Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday & Saturday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. closed Sunday. Chef owned and operated. Our salads are made in house using local seasonal vegetables. Fresh roasted ham, turkey and Roast Beef used in our hoagies. We hand make our own Eggplant & Chicken Parmesan, Pork Meatballs and Hamburgers. We use 1st quality fresh not pre-prepared products to make sure you get the best food for a reasonable price. We make Vegetarian, Gluten Free and Sugar Free items. Call or go to Facebook (Breaking Bread Café NC) to find out what our specials are. We are now open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights by customer request, so come join us and find out what all the talk is about.

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

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

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

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 and oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-you-can-eat.

Lunch every day from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Evening cookouts on the terrace on weekends and Wednesdays (weather permitting), featuring steaks, ribs, chicken, and pork chops, to name a few. Bountiful family-style dinners on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, with entrees that include prime rib, baked ham and herb-baked chicken, complemented by seasonal vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer a fine selection of wine and beer. The evening social hour starts at 6 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.

MON-FRI: 7AM-5PM SAT: 8AM 5PM SUN : 8AM-3PM

PRESENTING

Bill Harley Grammy-winner, storyteller, songwriter, author. Bill will perform after the picnic on Wednesday and each night after dinner! Call for reservations.

CHEF’S TABLE 30 Church St., Waynesville.

828.452.6210. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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

Reservations honored.

COUNTRY INN

Dine at 5,000 feet.

tasteTHEmountains

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For reservations, please call 828.926.0430 • TheSwag.com • Waynesville, NC

CITY BAKERY 18 N. Main St. Waynesville 828.452.3881.

Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.,

Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join us in our historic location for scratch made soups and daily specials.

Breakfast is made to order daily: Gourmet cheddar & scallion biscuits served with bacon, sausage and eggs; smoked trout bagel plate; quiche and fresh fruit parfait.

We bake a wide variety of breads daily, specializing in traditional french breads. All of our breads are hand shaped. Lunch: Fresh salads, panini sandwiches. Enjoy outdoor dinning on the deck. Private room available for meetings.

CITY LIGHTS CAFE Spring Street in downtown Sylva.

828.587.2233. Open Monday-Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tasty, healthy and quick. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, espresso, beer and wine.

Come taste the savory and sweet crepes, grilled paninis, fresh, organic salads, soups and more. Outside patio seating. Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly. Live music and lots of events.

Check the web calendar at citylightscafe.com.

THE CLASSIC WINESELLER 20 Church Street, Waynesville.

828.452.6000. Underground retail wine and craft beer shop, restaurant, and intimate live music venue. Kitchen opens at 4 p.m .Wednesday through Saturday serving freshly prepared small plate and tapas-style fare.

Enjoy local, regional, or national talent Live each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night at 7 p.m. www.classicwineseller.com. Also on facebook and twitter.

CORK & CLEAVER 176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville.

828.456.7179. Reservations recommended. 4:30-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Tucked away inside Waynesville Inn, Cork & Cleaver has an approachable menu designed around locally sourced, sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients. Executive Chef Corey Green prepares innovative and unique Southern fare from local, organic vegetables grown in Western North Carolina. Full bar and wine cellar. www.waynesvilleinn.com.

FRANKIE’S ITALIAN TRATTORIA 1037 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley.

828.926.6216 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday-Saturday. Father and son team Frank and Louis Perrone cook up dinners steeped in Italian tradition. With recipies passed down from generations gone by, the Perrones have brought a bit of Italy to Maggie Valley. frankiestrattoria.com FROGS LEAP PUBLIC HOUSE 44 Church St. Downtown Waynesville 828.456.1930 Serving lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; Dinner 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. 5 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. Frogs Leap is a farm to table restaurant focused on local, sustainable, natural and organic products prepared in modern regional dishes. Seasonal menu focuses on Southern comfort foods with upscale flavors. www.frogsleappublichouse.com.

HERREN HOUSE 94 East St., Waynesville 828.452.7837.

Lunch: Wednesday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday Brunch 11 a. m. to 2 p.m.

Enjoy fresh local products, created daily.

Join us in our beautiful patio garden. We

tasteTHEmountains are your local neighborhood host for special events: business party’s, luncheons, weddings, showers and more. Private parties & catering are available 7 days a week by reservation only.

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

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

Lunch Sunday noon to 2:30 p.m., dinner nightly starting at 4:30 p.m. World-famous prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood, gorgonzola cheese and salads. All ABC permits and open year-round. Children always welcome. Takeout menu. Excellent service and hospitality.

Reservations appreciated.

MOUNTAIN PERKS ESPRESSO BAR & CAFÉ 9 Depot St., Bryson City. 828.488.9561.

Open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. With music at the Depot.

Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Life is too short for bad coffee. We feature wonderful breakfast and lunch selections. Bagels, wraps, soups, sandwiches, salads and quiche with a variety of specialty coffees, teas and smoothies.

Various desserts.

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

828.648.4193. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Serving breakfast, lunch, nd dinner. The restaurant has a 1950s & 60s theme decorated with memorabilia from that era.

NEWFOUND LODGE RESTAURANT 1303 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee (Located on 441 North at entrance to GSMNP).

828.497.4590. Open 7 a.m. daily.

Established in 1946 and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Family style dining for adults and children.

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

828.586.3555. Open Tuesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Wednesday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Hand-tossed pizza, steak sandwiches, wraps, salads and desserts. All made from scratch. Beer and wine. Free movies with showtimes at 6:30 and 9 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. Visit madbatterfoodandfilm.com for this week’s shows.

ORGANIC BEANS COFFEE COMPANY 1110 Soco Road, Maggie Valley.

828.668.2326. Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Happily committed to brewing and serving innovative, uniquely delicious coffees — and making the world a better place.

100% of our coffee is Fair Trade, Shade Grown, and Organic, all slow-roasted to bring out every note of indigenous flavor. Bakery offerings include cakes, muffins, cookies and more. Each one is made from scratch in Asheville using only the freshest, all natural ingredients available. We are proud to offer gluten-free and vegan options.

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

828.926.1616. maggievalleyclub.com/dine.

PATIO BISTRO 30 Church Street, Waynesville.

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

Outdoor and indoor dining.

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR Maggie Valley Inn and Conference Center 828.926.0201 Bar open Monday thru Saturday; dining room open Tuesday thru Saturday at 5 p.m. Full service restaurant serving steaks, prime rib, seafood and dinner specials.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN SUB SHOP 29 Miller Street Waynesville 828.456.3400.

Open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. A Waynesville tradition, the Smoky Mountain Sub Shop has been serving great food for over 20 years. Come in and enjoy the relaxed, casual atmosphere. Sub breads are baked fresh every morning in Waynesville.

Using only the freshest ingredients in home-

made soups, salads and sandwiches. Come in and see for yourself why Smoky Mountain Sub Shop was voted # 1 in Haywood County.

Locally owned and operated.

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

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

Located across from the Fire Station.

TAP ROOM SPORTS BAR & GRILL 176 Country Club Dr. Waynesville 828.456.5988. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Enjoy soups, sandwiches, salads and hearty appetizers along with a full bar menu in our casual, smoke-free neighborhood grill.

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!) Each Pizza is hand tossed and made with TLC. You're welcome to watch your pizza being created.

CHEERWINE BBQ SANDWICH ..........$5.99

Soda Shop

JUNE 18 • ALL DAY/NIGHT

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We’ll feed your spirit, too.

-Local beers now on draft-

Live Music

SID’S

FRIDAY, JUNE 20TH:

Karaoke w/ Chris Monteith

——————————————————

SATURDAY, JUNE 21ST: Soco Creek

ON MAIN

117 Main Street, Canton NC 828.492.0618 • SidsOnMain.com Serving Lunch & Dinner

Smoky Mountain News

Burgers to Salads Southern Favorites & Classics

FRIED GREEN TOM. SANDWICH ..........$3.99

245-68

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DOWNTOWN SYLVA • NC

Hot Dogs Ice Cream

June 18-24, 2014

This Month Only:

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Carolina Dusk

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

236-50 245-39

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83 Asheville Hwy. Sylva Music Starts @ 9 • 631.0554

Cataloochee Ranch 21

22

A&E

Smoky Mountain News

New state tax hits entertainment venues

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER hen the clock struck midnight this past New Year’s Eve, a new North Carolina state tax took effect.

“This isn’t a tax reform, it’s a tax shift,” said Rep. Joe Sam Queen, D-Waynesville. “It’s just part of the shift by the Republican legislature on revenues. They cut taxes on big business, then entertainment, tourism and nonprofits, who do so much with so little, and are the engine of our economy, get taxed while those huge tax breaks are given to those who contribute to the call.”

The 4.75 percent tax, known as a privilege tax or admission charge, will now be added to any live performance or other live event, motion pictures or films, a museum or cultural site, garden, exhibit, show, guided tour or similar attraction. These listed items are considered by the state as a service, and with that, should be taxed in the eyes of the legislature.

“It is simply an added burden to charities,” said Steve Lloyd, executive director of the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre. “In the meantime, the legislature has cut funding support.

Given the role the arts play in growing the economy, attracting business and contributing to the quality of life, this is regressive.”

Rep. Queen said he did not support the tax when it was brought up for a vote. He noted the money collected wouldn’t be worth the hardships now put upon entertainment venues and small business owners.

“The tax is hard to collect and inconsistent,” Queen said. “The [Republicans] say taxation is bad for business, well it’s particularly bad for the entertainment business. It’s not the small folks in the entertainment and the arts getting these tax breaks — it’s big business.”

W

ENTERTAINMENT EXPENSES

With the new tax increase, there are plenty of complaints and groans echoing through the mountains of Western North Carolina. For several years now, profit margins have already been slim due to the lingering effects of the economic recession, and the mere fact more Americans don’t have as much of a disposable income anymore for entertainment endeavors.

“I have to pay it. I don’t like it, and you get nothing for it, but what are you going to do?” said Kyle Edwards, owner of The Stompin’ Ground in Maggie Valley.

Edwards said he hasn’t changed his prices in an effort to not deter folks from coming through the door. But, with that, he’ll be paying more out of his pocket to cover the tax.

“Business hasn’t been very good lately, pretty average for this time of year,” he said. “If it gets much worse, I don’t know what will happen.

This will affect tourism. It’ll get less and less. The economy nationwide is so bad, no jobs out there, which means no money for vacations.”

Down the road at the Maggie Valley Opry

House, home to legendary banjoist Raymond Fairchild, his wife, co-owner Shirley Fairchild, is worried what the future will hold for his longtime beloved business.

“Right now, we have not increased our ticket prices of $12 due to the slow tourist turnout so far this year, but will have to before the season’s over,” Fairchild said. “The tax increase has put another dent in our profit along with having to pay the music licensing companies SESAC, ASCAP and BMI. People are being taxed out of business, but we can survive this, and I am determined to do so.”

The tax will also affect the out-of-the-gate success of new businesses. After years of dormancy, The Strand Theatre (now The Strand at 38 Main) in downtown Waynesville was recently renovated and reopened, where it now showcases vintage/blockbuster films and regional

for the night already, so hopefully it won’t affect me. It will just depend on how they want us to pay the tax. I could see how this tax hike could really affect the small arts. Sometimes it is hard to get people to participate in those activities, and higher prices definitely won’t help.”

Even for larger, more successful and profitable venues, the entertainment tax will still make noticeable changes to how the public will respond and how the business itself will properly market and adjust to the situation.

“Any time you have to roll out something new or add a step to a process that you have been doing for years, it is tough. Our patrons have never paid an admission tax and it has raised more questions than anything,” said Paul Garner, general manager for the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. “As of January 1, we started adding

commercial agricultural fair; a festival or other recreational or entertainment activity that lasts no more than seven consecutive days and is sponsored by a nonprofit; a youth athletic contest sponsored by a nonprofit; and a statefunded attraction.

“We will have to add it to all ticket purchases. Nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply to get back sales tax they pay. Most of us have never done that but most of the arts organizations are now planning to start,” said Lloyd, with HART being a nonprofit.

So what does this mean for Folkmoot USA, known as North Carolina’s International Festival and a key economic driving force for Haywood County and beyond?

“All of us at Folkmoot USA are very concerned about the tax increase, especially as it can hurt all nonprofits that host any kind of

Raymond Fairchild; Folkmoot USA (right).

Garret K. Woodward photos

music acts. The business decided to pay the tax out-of-pocket, making their profit margins slimmer, all in an effort to not raise prices.

“The additional burden of the ticket sales tax is another drain during the difficult start-up period, especially because attendance at events has been slow to pick up,” said co-owner Rodney Conard. “It was very important to us to make ticket prices affordable for a fun night out on the town; The Strand has absorbed the additional cost of the tax to keep ticket prices low. The reinstated tax is certainly a hurdle, but ultimately The Strand will thrive or fail depending on the enjoyment and attendance of the community.”

That out-of-pocket will also come into play for the Water’n Hole Bar & Grill in Waynesville. As a band cover charge at the door now warrants a tax, the bar, which occasionally charges a small fee for live music, will play by the rules, even if the parameters and accountability factors seem fuzzy.

“I’m not sure exactly how they will [collect the tax]. It depends on how they will try to implement the tax, since it’s usually cash only for extremely small businesses that have music,” said co-owner Becky Robinson. “I include any door money collected in my sales

“Given the role the arts play in growing the economy, attracting business and contributing to the quality of life, this is regressive.”

— Steve Lloyd, executive director, Haywood Arts Regional Theatre

the mandated admission tax to the face value of our tickets. We have not seen a huge pushback from our patrons, and we are thankful for that. Many other states have been paying this tax for years and it was only a matter of time before North Carolina introduced this tax law.”

KEYS TO SURVIVAL But, there are certain exemptions out there with the new tax. In the bill, exemptions can be made for events held at an elementary school, secondary school or sponsored by a school; a

ticketed event. Festival ticket sales are about a third of our annual budget, and we cannot afford to lose ticket buyers due to this tax,” said Karen Babcock, executive director of Folkmoot.

To stay ahead of the new tax, Folkmoot decided to sell tickets for 2014 earlier than normal, offering them for purchase last year up until Dec. 31, 2013. That move prevented the festival from losing money on certain ticket sales. But, that measure can only work for so long.

“In 2015, we will be forced to add the tax to all ticket sales,” Babcock said. “[For 2014], we are offering free admission to children 12 and under for most ticketed performances. We hope this will help our audiences and keep Folkmoot performances affordable, despite the new tax.”

But, until the new tax pans out and the true effects are visible, entertainment venues and small business owners are hoping for the best, yet preparing for the worst. As of press time, the state legislature is searching for more exemptions — like county fairs — for the tax.

“I’m going to do my best to get it taken off of county fairs and support to take it off of other nonprofits,” Queen said. “If we ever get back the majority in the legislature, I hope to take it off of all venues.”

IF IT'S RED, WHITE OR BLUE

This must be the place

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Garret K. Woodward photo

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Smoky Mountain News

Time sure does fly, eh?

It hit me this week that my column recently crossed over the one-year anniversary threshold. How crazy, huh? I remember when my publisher suggested in the spring of 2013 that I start a weekly column. I was definitely receptive to having my very own page in the newspaper to write (literally) about whatever I want. But, there also was a prominent, lingering thought in the back of my head — what am I going to write about each and every week?

At first, I introduced myself, where I’m from, what I want out of life, and how I view the world from my front door. Then, I talked about places I’d lived and visited, and the incredible people I met along the way. I’d talk about my family, my friends, and total strangers that left an unforgettable mark on my existence.

Writing a weekly column isn’t an easy task, to be honest. Yes, there are some weeks where you know exactly what you’re going to write about. But, then there are times where Sunday night rolls around and I’ve yet to figure out what my topic will be (with the column due Monday morning).

And yet, in some odd way, I kind of enjoy that fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants topic search.

I like the idea that I can write about anything, anyone or anyplace. I’ve used it to showcase my interviews with Oscar-winner Kevin Costner and guitarist Mike Cooley of the Drive-By Truckers, as well as words about my love of old country music, getting poison ivy while playing Frisbee golf or my teenager indiscretions with stealing beer from my grandfather’s garage fridge.

When I started this endeavor, I really didn’t know if anybody was even going to read this, let alone make a connection with

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arts & entertainment

the words and sentiments. There have been plenty of times I’ve put this together and wondered, “Who really cares what I have to say?”

But, the funny thing is, there are folks who care about what is said on this page. In a world where face-to-face communication is a lost art and the simple act of starting a genuine conversation with a stranger is a rarity, having an outlet like this (let alone in print, on a physical piece of paper, not a digital screen), it seems people find comfort in the situations I find myself in and the thoughts I tend to have emerging on the other side of a long day.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been walking along some downtown, whether it’s Bryson City, Sylva, Franklin or Waynesville, and someone I’ve never met stops me and says “Was your trip home to New York fun?,” “How’s your sister’s pregnancy going?” or “I really liked what you said about your time living in Ireland, oh how I miss it there.”

For a split second, I find myself a tad jarred by the encounter. Here I am, in the middle of the mountains of Western North Carolina, and this person knows exactly what’s going on in my life, and wants to say hello, perhaps have a chat for a moment about it.

Country act My Highway will perform at 9 p.m.

And as these surreal moments June 21 at No Name Sports Pub in Sylva. continue to happen, I truly do welcome them. I’ve always been The “Way Back When” dinner will be held at a fan of connecting the dots of 5:30 p.m. June 27 at the Cataloochee Ranch in humanity, whether through Maggie Valley. journalism or just saddling up at the local watering hole and The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts & Crafts Show striking up some friendly banwill be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 21-22 at the ter with the folks to the left and Haywood County Fairgrounds. right of me.

A street dance will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

There’s something to be said June 27 in downtown Waynesville. about being a participant in your existence. Too many of us out there in the world just stay Bluegrass/Americana group The Kruger within our own bubble. We Brothers perform at 7:30 p.m. June 28 at the never open ourselves to others.

Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center.

I know sometimes people are weary of those they don’t know, but in all truthfulness the majority of the world has a good heart, and I have proof of that on a weekly basis with all of the amaz“I’ve always been a fan of ing people I interact with and write about. connecting the dots of With that said, I welcome any and all suggestions for ideas, interesting characters humanity, whether and topics that you would like me to ramble on about. Heck, just say hello if you want — through journalism or just I’ve never met a stranger. I want this page of saddling up at the local The Smoky Mountain News to be a comfort zone, a place where you can kickback, relax watering hole and striking and delve into the beautiful chaos that is the up some friendly banter world around me. I find the more I push out and explore my surroundings, the more I with the folks to the left realize how similar we all are, in so many great ways. So, here’s to one wild year of and right of me.”

“This must be the place,” and to many more.

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arts & entertainment

On the beat HCC to offer classes in the Appalachian Music Program

The Clogging 101 class will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays beginning July 10 through Sept. 18. Students will get “feet-on” experience in this wonderful, old time percussive dance form. Starting from step one, participants will learn fun, exciting moves to take to any dance floor. Students may choose to attend a field trip to the Carter Fold in West Virginia. There will also be special guests such as master caller Joe Sam Queen.

In addition to these classes, HCC offers online music classes. These classes start monthly. Choose from Introduction to Guitar or Music Made Easy. The Introduction to Guitar course teaches par-

Haywood Community College’s Appalachian Music Program will be offering a handful of classes funded by a generous grant from the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area.

HCC’s music and recording arts studio features a mixing room, acoustically sound practice space, audio/visual viewing, and dancing and meeting space.

The Introduction to Sound Recording/Engineering class will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Mondays beginning July 7 through Sept. 15. Students will learn how to set up and operate recording equipment.

Instruction will focus on the components in the audio chain including microphones, cables, amplifiers, speakers and more.

The 7 Absolutes Your Musical Career Requires is an E-Book class taught by the author. It will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays beginning July 8 through Sept. 16. Participants will learn the steps to help launch and sustain a musical career. Topics will include developing a business Dance caller Joe Sam Queen (right) will be among model that stays true to the pasthe special guests in the Clogging 101 class. sion and love artists have for their Margaret Hester photo work and how to connect with an audience that shares and believes in the artist’s core values and vision. ticipants basic guitar skills step-by-step The Mandolin for Beginners class will with the help of hands-on exercises, audio be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and video recordings, and detailed illustrabeginning July 9 through Sept. 17. tions. The Music Made Easy course teaches Participants will learn basic open chords students a complete understanding of and how to play rhythm. This course is rhythm, melody and harmony. ideal for those with little or no experience 828.565.4241 or 828.627.4669 or and who want to learn an introduction to 828.564.5091 or fundamental techniques. bapinkston@haywood.edu.

Johnny Webb Band to play Sylva Smoky Mountain News

The Johnny Webb Band will perform at Concerts on the Creek from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Bridge Park in Sylva.

Webb is an acclaimed country music entertainer from Franklin, who will be accompanied by fellow-musicians from Macon and Jackson counties. They have accumulated around 200 years of performing experience and have several recordings under their belt. They’ve performed collectively and separately with other groups at various functions, country clubs, nightclubs, universities and campgrounds both in and out of the area. The band has a down-home flavor and a lineup of country music, both old and new.

Concerts on the Creek are held every Friday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The concerts are free with a donation encouraged and cooperatively produced by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Sylva and the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department.

828.586.2155.

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James Hammel will host a cabaret show on June 21 in Waynesville.

Donated photo

Cabaret show at The Classic Wineseller Singer-songwriter James Hammel will present a cabaret story through song in “Celebrating a Collage of Life — a Journey Through Some of Life’s More Poignant Moments” at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at The Classic Wineseller in Waynesville.

Joining Hammel are pianist Steve Davidowski, bassist Zack Page and drummer Evan Martin. Hammel is a member of the prestigious Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs. His passion for singing and playing guitar began in Connecticut when he met jazz great Sal Salvador who introduced him to jazz guitar. Sal challenged Hammel that one day he would pursue a career in music. Hammel took

a 20-year detour building and leading large companies. Along the way he wrote songs about his life experiences that are part of his repertoire today. He has been compared to Chet Baker and John Pizzarelli.

Hammel and his band have performed in New York City at venues such as The Metropolitan Room, Satalla, Julian’s, PM, and Kavehaz (The Gallery). He also has performed at the former CBGB’s Gallery and The Bitter End. Tickets are $34.99 per person, which includes a four-course dinner.

828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

• Rolling Nowhere, PMA, My Highway, The C Notes, Dustin Martin & The Ramblers, Johnny Hayes & The Love Seats and The Sawyer Family will perform at No Name Sports Pub in Sylva. Rolling Nowhere will play June 19, with PMA June 20, My Highway June 21, The C Notes June 22, Martin June 27, Hayes June 28 and The Sawyer Family June 29. All shows begin at 9 p.m. Free. 828.586.2750 or www.nonamesportspub.com.

June 28 and The Wilhelm Brothers June 29.

All performances begin at 8 p.m. Free.

828.488.2337 or www.nantahalabrewing.com.

• Curtis Blackwell and The Dixie Bluegrass Boys and Gem City will perform during Pickin’ on the Square at Town Square in Franklin. Blackwell and The Dixie Bluegrass Boys will play June 21, with Gem City June 28. All shows begin at 6:30 p.m. Free. www.franklin-chamber.com or 828.542.2516.

• Angela Esterling, Guy Marshall and The Wilhelm Brothers will be performing at the Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson City.

Esterling will play June 21, with Marshall

• Dave Desmelik and The Spontaneous Combustion Jam will be at BearWaters Brewing Company in Waynesville. Desmelik will play at 7 p.m. June 28. The jam runs from 8 p.m. to midnight every Monday, with all players welcome. 828.246.0602 or www.bwbrewing.com.

ALSO:

• Nitrograss will perform at part of the Outdoor 76 concert series at 7 p.m. June 26 in downtown Franklin. $5 per person.

828.349.7676 or www.outdoor76.com.

• Friday Night Jazz! with The Kittle & Collings Duo will be from 6 to 9 p.m. June 20 and 27 at Lulu’s on Main. www.mountainlovers.com.

On the beat • Appalachian string band The Freight Hoppers and old-time string group Lonesome Sound will perform at the Bryson City Train Depot. The Freight Hoppers will play June 21, with Lonesome Sound June 28. Both shows are free and begin at 6:30 p.m. www.greatsmokies.com.

• Craig Summers & Lee Kram, Celeste Underwood, Bobby G, Tarnished Rose and Johnny Rhea will perform at Frog Level Brewing Company in Waynesville. Summers & Kram play June 19 and 26, with Underwood June 20, Bobby G June 21, Tarnished Rose June 27 and Rhea June 28. Free.

828.454.5664 or www.froglevelbrewing.com.

• Singer-songwriter Randy Flack, and southern rock bands Fastgear and Crosstrax will perform at Fontana Village Resort. Flack will play June 26, with Fastgear June 27 and Crosstrax June 28. All shows begin at 7 p.m. www.fontanavillage.com.

ALSO:

• Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper will perform at 7 p.m. June 21 at the Historic Cowee School. $15 per person. www.coweeschool.org or 828.349.1945.

Carolina Dusk to play Sylva library

• The Johnny Webb Band and Mountain Faith will perform at Concerts on the Creek at Bridge Park in Sylva. The Johnny Webb Band will play June 20, with Mountain Faith June 27. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m.

Free. 828.586.2155.

• Rolling Nowhere, Tony Poole, Darren & The Buttered Toast and Anthony Wayne OMB will perform at the Water’n Hole Bar & Grill in Waynesville. Rolling Nowhere will play June 20, with Poole June 21, Darren & The Buttered Toast June 27 and Wayne June 28.

All shows begin at 9 p.m. 828.456.4750.

• Country/roots group The Honeycutters will perform as part of the Western Carolina University summer concert series at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24, at the Central Plaza in Cullowhee. Free. www.joebasilemusic.com or 828.227.3618.

• A Dixieland Jazz presentation by The Frog Level Philharmonic will perform as part of the Grace Noon Concert Series at noon Thursday, June 19, at the Grace Episcopal Church in Waynesville. Free. 828.926.8721.

• Bluegrass group The Maggie Valley Band will perform at 7:45 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville. $12. www.38main.com or 828.283.0079.

• The High Mountain Squares will host their Black and White Dance from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Friday, June 20, at the Macon County Community Building in Franklin. Jim Cosman will be the caller. Western style square dancing, mainstream and plus levels.

828.371.4946 or www.highmountainsquares.com.

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Smoky Mountain News

• The Jazz Cats will perform at 6 p.m. June 28 at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

Sponsored by the Jackson County Arts Council. www.jacksoncountyarts.org.

• A community jam will be held at 6 p.m.

Thursday, June 19 at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. Open jam sessions for musicians and singers of any skill level.

Free. 828.488.3030.

LIFE, LIBERT Y AND THE PURSUIT O F $ 1, 0 0 0 , 0 0 0 June 18-24, 2014

• Bluegrass/Americana group The Kruger Brothers perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June • The Director’s Circle Jazz Brunch will be 28, at the Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June Center in Robbinsville. With their exciting 22, at The Bascom in Highlands. shill@theand all-in-one performances, the trio feabascom.org or 828.526.4949. tures Swiss brothers Uwe and Jens Kruger, on guitar and banjo respectively, with Joel Landsberd on bass. Tickets are $25 for adults, $5 for students grades K12. 828.479.3364 or www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

World music act Carolina Dusk will perform at 6 • The Summer Live Music Series p.m. Tuesday, June 24, at the Jackson County Public will kickoff at 6 p.m. June 21 at Library in Sylva. the Nantahala Outdoor Center in The band consists of Caroline Carr and Dusk the Nantahala Gorge. Live music, Weaver. They will play original songs from their two barbecue and craft beer. albums as well as a few covers. Instruments feawww.greatsmokies.com. tured include Peruvian cajon, African djembe, wazoogle (a type of horn), autoharp, acoustic guitar • Carolina Dusk and The Freestylers and various diatonic harmonicas. will perform at City Lights Café in This event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Sylva. Carolina Dusk will play June Jackson County Public Library. The Jackson County 21, with The Freestylers June 27.

Public Library is a member of Fontana Regional Free. www.citylightscafe.com or Library. Free.

828.587.2233.

828.586.2016 or www.fontanalib.org.

arts & entertainment

• Appalachian soul group Soldier’s Heart and the Jackson/Taylor Band will perform at Groovin’ on the Green at the Village Commons in Cashiers. Soldier’s Heart will play June 20, with the Jackson/Taylor Band June 27. All shows begin at 6:30 p.m. Free. www.mountainlovers.com.

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To Benefit Head Start of Haywood & Jackson Counties A Mountain Music Festival Celebrating Western North Carolina’s Heritage.

Showcasing the Official NC State Dog - the Plott Hound, Kids Fly Fishing Area

June 18-24, 2014

Saturday, June 21 • Sunday, June 22

Smoky Mountain News

• A Sculpted Masks and Performance youth arts class will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

June 23-27 at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. Children will learn to make clay masks, then rehearse and perform an original play. $225 per child, with materials included. www.cullowheemountainarts.org.

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• The Come Paint with Charles Kidz program will be at 5 p.m. June 19, 24 and 26 at the Charles Heath Gallery in Bryson City. $18 per child, per class. Materials and snacks included. 828.538.2054.

• The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts & Crafts Show will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 2122 at the Haywood County Fairgrounds. Over 50 crafters, handmade items, food vendors and door prizes. Free parking and admission. www.bracaorg.com.

• The films “The Lego Movie” and “Beasts of the Southern Wild” will be screened at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville. “The Lego Movie” will be shown June 20-21, with “Beasts of the Southern Wild” June 27-28.

Screenings are at 7:45 p.m. on Fridays and 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. on Saturdays. $6 per person, $4 for children. Saturday morning cartoons will also be shown at 10 a.m. June 21 and 28. 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com.

• A three-part beginning crochet class will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 24, July 1 and July 15 at the Dillsboro Masonic Lodge. Crafter Wayne Wingett will lead the classes. $10 per person. Register by June 20.

828.586.2435 or junettapell@hotmail.com.

Entertainment By:

Admission:

• A three-week textile/fiber program for kids ages 9 to 18 will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. June 19, 26 and July 2 at Cowee Textiles. The first week focuses on different fibers and how to prepare the fiber for spinning. The second week the class will Kool-Aid dye fiber. The last week focuses on different types of weaving. Cost is $15 for all three classes. 828.349.2046.

Balsam Range Eddie Rose and Highway 40 The Primitive Quartet Dismembered Tenesseeans Jon Byrd • Davis Raines Walking by Faith Visit the Don Ledford Memorial Jam Tent

Saturday Only: $20 Sunday Only: $10 Two-Day Pass: $25

• An art reception for photographer Karen Lawrence will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 19, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. www.fontanalib.org.

Kids’ Zone!

Rain or Shine!

Showcasing the NC State Dog the Plott Hound

APA sponsored Baying Events • AKC Dog Agility Demonstration • NPHA Sponsored - UKC Sanctioned Bench Show NPHA & APA Sponsored Kid’s Bench Show

Bring Your Lawn Chair - We’re Gonna Have a Great Time - Rain or Shine!

26

On the wall

FUN FOR ALL AGES! For more details call 828-506-1820 or visit www.PlottFest.org

• A stamped card-making class will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19, at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office in Sylva. $5 per person. 828.586.4009.

• The Cullowhee Mountain Arts Summer Faculty Exhibition will run June 19-July 25 in the Fine Arts Museum at Western Carolina University.

An artist reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. June 19 at the museum. www.wcu.edu.

• A beginner’s knitting class will be held from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday at the Jackson County Senior Center in Sylva. Bring yarn and needles if you have them. 828.586.4944.

• The Stecoah Artisans Drive About Tour will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 27-28. Attendees visit and explore numerous galleries and artisans. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

On the stage

‘Oklahoma!’ rolls into Franklin

“Oklahoma!,” the first musical written by the dynamic duo Rodgers and Hammerstein, will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. June 27- 28 and July 5 and at 4 p.m. June 29, July 4 and 6 at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

The production will be presented by an actor’s guild based in Atlanta, and under the direction of Broadway veteran, Robert Ray. “Oklahoma!” tells the story of Curly McLain, a handsome, loveable, and bow-legged cowboy, and his romance with farm girl Laurey Williams. Curly must contend with an evil ranch hand and a travel-

ing peddler for the heart of the woman he loves.

Curly will be played by television and film actor Brad Thomason, who has acted on TV shows such as “The Sopranos” and “Law and Order.” He also appeared in the hit film “Remember the Titans.” Laurey will be played by Camilla Zaepfel, who recently completed her Master of Fine Arts degree at the Boston Conservatory. She has worked at The Alliance, Lyric and Legacy Theaters in Atlanta and also at the Highlands Playhouse.

Tickets are $10 for students, $15 for adults.

866.273.4615 or www.greatmountainmusic.com.

Rogers and Hammerstein’s “A Grand Night for Singing” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. June 20-21, 27-28 and July 5 and at 3 p.m. June 22, 29 and July 6 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

This Tony-nominated show features familiar songs with new arrangements. It was conceived by Tony-winner Walter Bobbie, who decided to take the songs out of context and reinvent new situations to show how timeless and versatile the works of Rogers and Hammerstein are in modern times. “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out’a My Hair,” for example, is done with Andrews Sisters-style harmonies.

“Honeybun” is given a Modernaires swing. “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria,” becomes a love song for a young man.

Tickets are $24 for adults, $20 for seniors and $10 for students. There are also special $8 discount tickets for students for Thursdays and Sundays 828.456.6322 and www.harttheatre.org.

arts & entertainment

Rogers and Hammerstein hits HART stage

• Auditions for “The Odd Couple” will be held at 6:30 p.m. June 29-30 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville. Volunteer actors are considered for all roles. Actors in this category will be asked to cold read from the script. Actors with professional credits and training may audition as professionals, with a prepared audition piece, headshot and professional resume. Professional actors cast in leading roles are offered a limited stipend. The show will run Aug. 22 through Sept. 7. 828.456.6322.

ALSO:

• Betsy’s School of Dance will bring their summer recital “Framed” to the stage at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students. www.greatmountainmusic.com or 866.273.4615.

June 18-24, 2014 Smoky Mountain News 27

On the street arts & entertainment

PlottFest returns to Maggie

C o m p a s s i o n

f o r

A benefit for Head Start of Haywood and Jackson counties, PlottFest will be held June 21-22 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

Gates open at 9 a.m.

Saturday and at noon on Sunday.

Celebrating the locally bred Plott Hound, the state dog of North Carolina, the festival combines an array of hound competitions, showcases and events.

There will also be a full day of live music, featuring performances from Balsam Range, Eddie Rose & Highway 40, The Primitive Quartet, and many more. Children’s activities and food vendors will be onsite.

Tickets are $20 for Saturday, $10 for Sunday or $25 for a two-day pass. www.plottfest.org.

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June 18-24, 2014

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Smoky Mountain News

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The Taste of the Plateau will be held June 26 and 29 in Cashiers. The events are a benefit for the Summit Charter School Foundation, Inc. The Patron Party will be from 6 to 11 p.m.

Thursday, June 26, at The Country Club of Sapphire Valley. Karl Lundgren, Executive Chef for The Country Club of Sapphire Valley, will be the featured chef of the Taste of the Plateau. Lundgren will enchant patrons with a Vine and Dine five-course meal paired with specialty wines for your enjoyment. Patron’s

• The Canton Spring Carnival will be held through June 21 in downtown. The carnival begins at 5 p.m. on weekdays and at 1 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. It will feature rides, activities and food vendors. Coupons for unlimited rides will be available for $15 and can be bought at local businesses and the Canton Town Hall. www.cantonnc.com.

will receive special gift bags and have the opportunity to bid on auction items prior to Sunday’s Taste of the Plateau. $500 per person, which includes one preferred-seating ticket for the Sunday event.

The Taste of the Plateau will be from 6 to 11 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at the Summit Charter School. Enjoy delicious food from Lundgren as well as offerings from many other local and regional restaurants. Chefs will prepare small plate specialties, pared carefully with a variety of wines. Live music will be provided by Shimmer. Attendees can also bid on items during the silent auction. $125 per person. www.tasteoftheplateau.org.

www.downtownwaynesville.com.

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

June 21 at Papou’s Wine Shop and Bar in Sylva. 828.5867.6300 or www.mountainlovers.com.

• The Women’s Work Festival will be all day June 21 at the Mountain Farm Museum in Cherokee. Walk the grounds of the museum and watch demonstrations of open-hearth cooking, spinning, sewing, corn shuck doll making and more. www.greatsmokies.com.

• The Way Back When dinner will be held at 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 27, at the Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley.

The dinner showcases a recreation meal, music, storytelling and atmosphere of a 1930s Appalachian trout camp. $31.95 per person, which includes food and beverage. 828.926.1401 or 800.868.1401 or www.cataloocheeranch.com.

• The Ladies Night Out evening of fun and fashion will be from 6 to 8 p.m. June 21 at the Humanite Boutique in Sylva. Complimentary drinks, personalized styling, mini-manicures and appetizers. 828.631.1599.

• A street dance will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. June 27 in downtown Waynesville. Live music by Whitewater Bluegrass and The Trantham Family, with clogging by the Dixie Dar-lin’s. Dancing led by Joe Sam Queen. All skill levels welcomed to participate.

• The P.A.W.S. Sampling of the City will be from 6 to 9 p.m. June 21 at Nantahala Brewing Company in Bryson City. The animal shelter fundraiser showcases all of the restaurants in Bryson City, with craft beer from the brewery. $12 per person. www.greatsmokies.com.

ALSO:

Books

Smoky Mountain News

29

Old West comes alive in Enger novel f you love epic tales that celebrate the American West; if you treasure novels like Trail of the Lonesome Dove, Edna Ferber’s So Big (Giant) and McCarthy’s Cities on the Plain, you might want to saddle up for Peace Like a River. Everything that quickens your heartbeat is here: manhunts, vicious killers, snowstorms, relentless law men, lovable outlaws, tall tales, all wrapped in a bit of Mark Twain’s “heading for the territories.” However, there is a significant Writer difference in time and place. We are in Minnesota in the 1960s, a time when the “Old West” was rapidly vanishing.

The narrator of Peace Like a River is 11year-old Ruben Land, an asthmatic boy who was literally snatched from death by his father who kept shouting “Ruben Land, in the name of the living God, I am telling you to breath.”

(Although Ruben did not breathe for over eight minutes, the boy does not show any evidence of brain damage, or, as Ruben ruefully observes, not until “he encountered plane geometry in the 10th grade.

The other family members are Ruben’s younger sister, Swede, who aspires to be a writer and a poet and is well on the way to being both (Ruben is Swede’s biggest fan).

Both adore their 16-year-old brother, Davy, who can ride, shoot and has his driver’s license. These three children, along with their luckless father, Jeremiah, suffer all of the disadvantages (and a few advantages) of a motherless household.

Although Jeremiah Land has potential talents, he lacks ambition. As a result, he is content to be the janitor at the local school and spend generous amounts of time hunting and camping. It is his lack of ambition that causes

Gary Carden

I

his wife to abandon the family when it becomes evident that she is trapped on a farm (she wants a house in town, of course).

Although his children are a bit embarrassed by meeting their father in the hall at school

Peace Like a River by Leif Enger. Atlantic Monthly Press, 2002. 313 pages. where he sweeps and cleans, Ruben knows a marvelous secret. His father can perform miracles ... or to be more exact, perhaps he is actually the unwitting vehicle through which miracles sometimes occur.

The Land family’s pastoral existence (hunting and camping with friends) ends abruptly when two local delinquents, Israel French and Tommy Basa, corner a local cheerleader in the locker room following a game.

When Davy attempts to defend the cheerleader, the incident escalates into acts of mutual vandalism (broken windshields, the

Summer reading in Bryson City An array of summer reading programs will be held at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

On Monday, June 23, dinosaurs are at the library, where 3rd graders will create dinosaur eggs and use a magic solution to dissolve them. On Tuesday, June 24, there will be a presentation of the Birds of Prey show, presented by Balsam Mountain Trust. Michael Skinner will present a hands-on discussion on the biology and habitats of birds of prey. He will also bring a few of these magnificent birds for a visit. On Wednesday, June 26th, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Science will take pre-k through 5th graders on a Dinosaur Discovery program that is sure to provide lots of hands on activities. On Thursday, June 26, teens will enjoy creating duct tape masterpieces.

All programs will begin at 11 a.m., with the duct tape masterpieces beginning at 3:30 p.m.

828.488.3030 or aplatt@fontanalib.org.

front door of the Land home defaced with tar, etc.) and finally into a violent conflict that culminates in a midnight attack on the Land home by the two thugs (armed with ball bats) — an attack in which Davy shoots and kills French and Basa.

When Davy is branded a murderer and arrested, the Land family finds that they are outcasts in their own community. Ruben, Swede and Davy (who believe in the time-honored traditions of the old West), find that their convictions are viewed as anachronisms.

However, while Ruben and Swede plot to rescue their brother, Davy escapes, sparking a massive manhunt At this point, Jeremiah Land receives a fortuitous gift. (Remember those miracles that suddenly occur for no reason?) An old friend dies and leaves Jeremiah an Airstream trailer.

Another friend gives him an aging Plymouth.

Jeremiah closes down his home, loads his family and sets out. He has no known destination and only says he is “going to find Davy.” It is an incredible journey, filled with nostalgia and tributes to everyone from Dalton Trumbo’s “Spartacus” (Ruben has an action figure of Spartacus that came with a severed hand that can be impaled on Spartacus’ sword) to the man who harbored Butch Cassidy when he returned to the U.S. There is also a first-rate villain who will alter the lives of the Lands. There is a bit of romance, too. In addition to getting Davy back, perhaps Ruben and Swede will finally find a mother.

Suddenly the Old West is resurrected. As Davy flees on borrowed and stolen horses and vehicles, the media is reminded of other escaping outlaws who became our heroes — Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Jesse James, the Youngers and Sam Bass. The media begins (for a short time) to rhapsodize about Davy Land in articles captioned “Ride, Davy, Ride!” Of course, the adventure would not be complete without a relentless federal agent named Martin Andreeson who is close on

Alexander, Bibber to present new works Former journalist Jane Alexander and ex-Marine Charles A. Van Bibber will each showcase their new books at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville.

Alexander will discuss her memoir The View from Tom’s Stand at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21. Although she was born a city-girl, Alexander spent six weeks every summer with her husband, Tom, and their two small children building a simple, old-timey log cabin, which would become Haywood County’s well-known Cataloochee Ranch. Alexander is also a successful journalist, having worked as senior editor at Time Life Books.

Van Bibber will read from and discuss Valentine’s Day: A Marine Looks Back Saturday, June 28. The book is the account of his own experience as a young Marine sent to Vietnam in 1968. This book will grant civilians insight into the experience of combat —

Davy’s heels. Martin is kind-hearted, dedicated and undeserving of abuse that the inventive Swede heaps on him in her poetry.

Whitch brings me to most entertaining aspect of Peace Like a River. It is Swede Land, Ruben’s little sister. Throughout this novel, Swede does a running poetic commentary on the action. She adores her brother Davy and she idolizes the wonderful characters that live and breathe in the movies. She reads constantly and her poetry reflects familiar voices: Rudyard Kipling, Robert Service and Robert Lewis Stevenson, for example. Consider the following: The moon was black as a miner’s lung, The sky was as black as a shroud, And deep in a cell that was black as a well, Two men lay moaning aloud.

And one was Rennie who had robbed a man, And one was Bert who had killed, And the gallows outside hadn’t ever been tried But its mission would soon be fulfilled, lads, Its mission would soon be fulfilled.

Swede’s poetry echoes the best of “cowboy poetry.” I can hear a bit of “The Shooting of Dan Magrew” in there and the lyrics of The Sons of the Pioneers best songs (“Keep a-moving, Dan/ Don’t you listen to him, Dan!”). It makes me homesick for the Saturday westerns and the voice of Walter Brennan (“When I was a boy and Old Shep was a pup ....”)

How does it end? Does Davy come home?

No, but he doesn’t go to prison either. What about that relentless lawman? Well, he catches Davy, but he may wish he didn’t. The showdown comes in Death Valley in the midst of brimstone craters ... And the miracles? Oh, yes, although the last miracle is a heartbreaker.

Aww, go on and read it if you want the details.

It is a wonderful book.

(Gary Carden is a writer and storyteller who lives in Sylva. He can be reached at gcarden498@aol.com.)

both immediate and long-lasting.

828.456.6000 or www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

Cowee poet to present new work Native Cowee poet Rose McLarney will read from her new book Its Day Being Gone at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Rickman Store in Franklin.

Its Day Being Gone recently won the National Poetry Series award and has just been released by Penguin. Her first book, The Always Broken Plates of Mountains, is available from Four Way Books. McLarney earned her MFA from Warren Wilson’s MFA Program for Writers and has taught writing at the college. She is currently assistant poetry professor at Oklahoma State University. This year, she received The Fellowship of Southern Writers’ George Garrett New Writing Award for Poetry, her poems won Alligator Juniper’s 2011 National Poetry Prize, and in 2010 she was awarded the Joan Beebe Fellowship.

30

Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER t’s a little after 7 p.m. when the first trolley shows up to Elkmont Campground. Green, red and yellow, the flashy Gatlinburg transit vehicle seems a bit out of place in the backwoods greenery of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but so, too, do the crowds of people that pour out of it.

People bearing fold-up chairs, blankets and cameras.

People with North Face and Patagonia strapped to their backs, and people toting oversized purses and tote bags. Children, teenagers, parents, retirees. People who are always in and out of the National Parks, and people who have probably never set foot in one in their lives.

But by the time dusk descends, all 1,000 of those people will be seated along the edges of the trails stepping off from Elkmont. And all for a common purpose: to watch fireflies.

Not just any fireflies, though. The Great Smoky Mountains are home to Photinus carolinus, the synchronous fireflies.

Their dynamic lightshow airs for only two weeks out of every year, and it’s mostly a local channel. Mostly, it’s here at Elkmont.

“It’s one of those awe factors of life,” said Danny Lynn, 55, as he and his wife Cheryl settled down to see the show for the second time in their lives. “It makes you go, ‘Wow.’” “Put it on your bucket list,” Cheryl agreed.

I

Lighted mystery Synchronous fireflies draw thousands to the Smokies

The firefly display lights up at Elkmont. (right) The first trolleyloads of firefly viewers unload at Elkmont Campground. It takes about three rotations of the five trolleys to get everyone there. (oppisite page) Holly Kays photos

CHRISTMAS IN JUNE An air of excitement pervaded first-time viewers and repeat offenders alike as the sun set over the Smokies. The crowds erupting from the trolleys spread out, staking out their territory and setting up their chairs to face the woods, waiting.

Something great was about to occur, that much was obvious, but as someone with no experience in the synchronous firefly department, it was hard to know exactly what I was supposed to be getting excited for.

Becky Nichols, park entomologist, did her best to explain.

“As it gets dark and they can visually see each other a little better, they’ll really start to sync up with their flashes,” she said.

It’s the males who do the syncing, blinking their lights in unison, five to eight times in a row at half-second intervals. At the height of the show, the entire forest blinks on and off at the same time, a sight reminiscent of Christmas lights in winter. “[The female] stays on the ground and flashes a little weak response,” Nichols explained.

The famous firefly show is really a lighted mating ritual, Nichols said of the last hurrah of a life spent mostly underground, eating snails and earthworms. The fireflies spend most of their lives as larvae, devoting their three or four weeks of adult life to mating, laying eggs and dying. That scientific description put a few visitors off at first.

“I couldn’t help but think, ‘We’re going to watch a billion fireflies have sex and die,’” said 70-year-old Richard Macko, who traveled from Orlando with his wife to watch the show with his brother and sister-in-law, who live in Knoxville..

No one knows for sure just what the relationship is between lights and mating. It could be male-on-male competition, a contest in which the dude with the brightest light wins.

On the other hand, it could be collective action on the part of

the males, a joint effort to make a flash big enough for the female to respond so that the males can find her. It’s the latter that’s the leading theory, Nichols said, but the verdict’s still not completely in.

PRIMO HABITAT Whatever the reason, the result is magnificent, a natural wonder that’s been drawing increasing waves of interest since word about the species’ existence began to spread in the 1990s. That’s when a Knoxville resident told a scientist about the “light show” she’d been enjoying at Elkmont for more than 40 years. The news came as a surprise to Georgia Southern University professor Jonathan Copeland, who had been traveling all the way to southeast Asia to study a different species of synchronous fireflies there. Turns out, a similar insect lives right here in the Smokies.

Though Elkmont is unarguably the most popular place to view the fireflies, their range isn’t limited to that area.

Photinus carolinus occur throughout the southern Appalachians, ranging from Tennessee as far north as south-

Firefly round two The display season for synchronous fireflies is over, but the evening fireflies, Photinus pyralis, are just getting started. A twilight firefly tour, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. June 28 at Pink Beds Picnic Area next to Cradle of Forestry on U.S. Highway 276, will give all ages a chance to learn more about these light-up insects and to do some exploring. This naturalist-led program will include a discussion on firefly life cycle and biology and then a slow-paced walk to look for them in the surrounding forest. $6 adults; $3 kids, free for Federal Recreation Pass and Golden Age Passport holders. Bring a flashlight. Devin Gentry, devin@cfaia.org.

western Pennsylvania.

That’s a sizable range, but they’re still not exactly common. They have a specific set of habitat requirements, and they’re sensitive to light pollution and trampling of the ground. The fireflies live mainly in the 2,000- to 5,000-foot elevation range, and they need moist soils, a comfortable temperature range and an open understory so that they can see each other’s displays. So their populations tend to exist in pockets, and Elkmont is a pocket that meets all of those qualifications with flying colors.

“This is one of the best displays,” Nichols said.

“Elkmont is pretty well-known for being primo habitat.”

A NATURAL WONDER As the sun set and darkness descended, I had my doubts. The woods were quickly turning black, but no bugs lit them save a few evening fireflies, the kind I’d grown up watching every summer night. Where was this bucket list experience, this magical phenomenon of nature?

Then … “Look, look!”

One of the preteens in the family sitting across the path from me had evidently seen something in the woods while I was turned the other way. Heads swiveled, including mine, and a few seconds later there it was — a cluster of flashing lights, bursting like a frazzled electrical circuit. This was the evening’s opening act.

“You’ll see one, and it will go blink, blink, blink and shut down because it will have to recharge,” volunteer Glo Turner had explained to me earlier. “The bunches get bigger until the whole woods is on the same synchronization.”

Eventually, the bunch of fireflies lighting up the hemlock across the path lost their limelight, because independent bunches started up in all different corners of the forest. The initial excitement over, the crowd settled into a mostly reverent quiet as the show took off.

THE MOST POPULAR INSECT IN TOWN

staff to get out and work in the hot from 3 or 2 o’clock all night long, but we honestly also felt sorry for the visitors,” Worth said.

So in 2011, the park piloted its reservation system. It allots a set amount of parking passes and sells them for a nominal fee, $1.50 per car with a $1 fee per person to ride the trolley. They don’t last long.

“It’s like trying to get tickets to a rock concert,” said Gabe Summe, 47, of Covington, Kentucky. “I’ve never seen anything sell out so fast in my life.”

To prevent ticket scalping, the park service has a one-person-one-parking-pass limit, but that means that families who want to go together have to ramp up their coordination.

Summe traveled to Elkmont with her three sisters, a niece and a brother-in-law, seven people using two cars.

“We called each other and sat on the phone and didn’t do anything at work until we bought them,” Summe said.

Though the park service holds back 85 tickets for sale the week before the event, the bulk of them are gone within minutes.

The new system limits visitation, for sure. The year before the reservation system went into effect, 12,400 people visited the campground over the eight-day viewing period, even with one of those days cancelled for rain. By comparison, the event now averages 6,000 to 8,000 people, depending on weather. This year, 7,523 people came.

“The numbers have drastically changed due to the reservation system, and in some respect we think that is for the better, because there is really not a good reason to take 2,000 people into the woods to see those fireflies at night each night,” Worth said. “It’s really, really detrimental to the resource.”

Not to mention, the show’s spectaculari-

Did you know?

■ Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to 19 species of firefly, four of which flash. There are 125 species of firefly in the U.S. and Canada, mostly in the eastern and southern regions.

■ Fireflies make light using bioluminescence, a technique that many insects and marine creatures use. Fireflies have a chemical in their abdomen called luciferin, which is broken down by the enzyme luciferase. The reaction produces light, but barely any heat.

■ Synchronous fireflies start flashing at about 9:45 p.m. and stop around midnight.

■ Southeast Asia and Japan are the only other places where synchronous fireflies exist, but these are different species with different behaviors.

■ Firefly larvae are predacious, eating organisms such as snails and earthworms.

Eggs hatch after three or four weeks, and the insect stays in the larval stage for one to two years, after which they pupate and hatch as adults. The duration of each stage depends on factors such as temperature and food availability.

Source: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

PLENTY STILL TO KNOW For some, the firefly show is just a bucket list item that trumps any previous ambivalence to natural wonder.

“I’ve never been a big outdoors person, but I feel the older I get, the more I want to see things like this,” said Chris Andrews, 51, who heard about the fireflies from her son.

“I just really want to see these lightning bugs. Why are they all lighting at the same time? How do they know? I want to be awed.”

Smoky Mountain News

ty is sort of inversely proportional to the number of people you’re sharing it with.

Being in the woods with 2,000 other people is a lot different than being with 1,000 other people, so limiting numbers means that people who do get to see the show have a better experience. It also means that park service employees are better able to answer questions, make sure visitors have their lights covered with the red cellophane provided — this confuses the fireflies less than white light and reduces distraction to fellow spectators — and keep everyone as safe as possible.

“It’s a little scary to take 500 people and drop them off in the dark,” Worth admitted.

Some of the people who jump online to claim tickets are avid outdoorsmen, people quite familiar with hiking, camping and appreciating ecology. Others, like Knoxville resident Melody Stooksbury and her daughter Katelyn, 6, would usually categorize bugs and insects as “icky.”

But for the Stooksbury family, fireflies are different. Katelyn was excited to see a sight reminiscent of “Tinker Bell in Disney Hollow,” while Melody termed the outing a “girly bug adventure.”

June 18-24, 2014

More and more, though, people do know what it is. The firefly phenomenon has taken off in popularity over the past decade or so, traveling by word of mouth ever since scientists started studying it and growing by leaps and bounds with the proliferation of the Internet and social media.

“For me even, it was still word of mouth at that point,” said Caitlin Worth, public affairs specialist for GSMNP, who first heard of the fireflies as a high school student in

Tennessee during the early 2000s. “But we certainly started getting that local media interest at that time, and that definitely caused a little more commotion down there.

Today one of the reasons it’s as popular as it is, is because of how much it’s shared in social media circles.”

In fact, the popularity eventually became so extreme that the park had to do something about it.

“It just got to the point where there were too many cars trying to park,” Nichols said.

“People were parking at odd places and getting stuck when the rains came.”

They were setting their blankets in the woods, trampling the understory and likely killing the flightless females resting there.

They were filling the forest with light, and the sheer numbers in themselves created a safety hazard. What if a lightning storm leapt up? What if a tornado warning appeared? There would be no way to get all those people to safety.

So, in 2006 the park did its first-ever dedicated firefly event. Basically, that amounted to mandatory parking at Sugarlands Visitor Center rather than in the campground and transit by trolley up to Elkmont.

“Ten years ago when I first started volunteering, it was a table with four or five of us standing around handing out the firefly brochures and telling people to keep their lights covered,” said Rick Turner, who volunteers with his wife Glo. That system helped somewhat with the crowd control, but it still had its issues. The Sugarlands parking lot filled up quickly, sometimes as early as noon, so people who arrived at a more reasonable time would get turned away. Often, they’d driven for hours to get there.

“It was certainly work-intensive for our

outdoors

Before long, it was just like Turner had said — a whole forest full of fireflies flashing their lights on exactly the same schedule.

The moon rose, illuminating the sky against the highest branches of trees, and the fireflies carried on, fairy-like, exposing the contour of the ground beneath them.

“It’s so spectacular,” said Knoxville resident Debra Simmons. “It’s really hard to put into words how spectacular it is.”

Maybe it’s the darkness, maybe it’s the woods or maybe it’s just the awe of the sight itself, but the firefly show is one that gives an illusion of solitude. The National Park Service counted 972 people at the trailhead that night, the majority of those people settling within half a mile of the trailhead, but as darkness descended and the woods lit up, their existence disappeared. For Simmons, it’s a feeling that harkens back to the early days, before every inch of the world was mapped out and traveling to the other side of a mountain could reveal a previously undiscovered wonder.

“I can’t imagine if you were like Laura Ingalls Wilder and you woke up at night and not knowing what it was,” Simmons said.

S EE FIREFLIES, PAGE 33 31

outdoors

Foraging field day in Cashiers Famed Asheville forager Alan Muskat will answer all your burning questions about forest foods during the next installment of the Village Nature Series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, at the Village Green Commons in Cashiers, with a private foraging tour to follow on June 25 at Skylight Farm near Cashiers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Foraging doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt the woods; what hurts the woods is not foraging,â&#x20AC;? Muskat said.

Muskat, who has been featured in Southern Living, The New Yorker and CBS News, will separate fact from fiction with his free talk, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Off the Eaten Path,â&#x20AC;? including a â&#x20AC;&#x153;show and smellâ&#x20AC;? segment and a peppering of tales of high-class survival. The next day, the foraging tour will teach participants to safely identify and gather wild plants and mushrooms, with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;find diningâ&#x20AC;? lunch experience to follow.

Former Charleston Chef Chris Weihs will demonstrate and prepare a meal with the foraged food.

The Tuesday talk is free. For more info on the foraging tour, contact at 828.743.3434 or info@villagegreencashiersnc.com. www.villagegreencashiersnc.com

Stewartia ovata. Ralph Preston photo

Stewartia sleuthing planned near Franklin An annual Stewartia hike to find the rare native mountain camellia, Stewartia ovata, will be held at 9 a.m. Thursday, June 26, in Macon County. It will be led by Jack Johnston, an expert guide who has more than two decades of Stewartia hunting experience to his name.

Meet at Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Branch Property between Franklin and Bryson City on N.C. 28 at 9 a.m. and then carpool in various directions to search for the plant.

Free, but registration required. sburdette@ltlt.org or 828.524.2711, ext. 305.

June 18-24, 2014

Learn to grow and use medicinal herbs A free upcoming program in Waynesville will teach participants all they need to know to grow and start using medicinal herbs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Grow and Prepare Herbs for Healing,â&#x20AC;? slated for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, at the Waynesville Library, will feature naturopath Michelle Sanderbeck and herbalist and grower Garth Kuvar. The history of medical herbs, how to grow them and how to make tinctures, poultices and decoctions will all be covered.

828.356.2507.

Alan Muskat. Donated photo

Comments open on coyote hunting in red wolf territory Comments are open regarding a proposed prohibition on coyote hunting in a five-county area in northeastern North Carolina. The area is home to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only native red wolf population, which look similar to coyotes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; posing a dangerous case of mistaken identity.

A ban on coyote hunting is already in effect in those counties following a court order in a lawsuit brought against the Wildlife Commission for allegedly violating the Endangered Species Act by allowing coyote hunting in the experimental red wolf introduction area.

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is taking comments until June 23. Submit to regulations@ncwildlife.org.

Red wolf. NPS photo

Smoky Mountain News

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June 18-24, 2014 Smoky Mountain News

And that, maybe, is the better part of the wonder that is the synchronous firefly show.

A lot is known about the species — that the lights last for approximately two weeks in late May and early June, that the larvae are carnivorous with some fierce-looking mandibles, that the intervals between flashes are so precise you can set your watch by them. The park service has figured out how to predict peak display by monitoring temperature, moisture and larval development, and they’ve got enough years of observation under their belts to say that the park’s firefly population looks to be stable.

But a lot is unknown.

To Andrews’ two questions, at least, there’s no solid answer. The leading theory right now, Nichols said, seems to be that the female needs to see the collective brightness of the males’ flash in order to respond, and that’s why the males flash in unison. But the truth could be different. And as to how the males know how to sync up, how they know the exact interval at which they’re expected to flash, that’s unknown.

Some research teams have popped up to the park over the years to try and answer some of those questions, professors from the University of Connecticut and Georgia Southern University looking into how fireflies process visual information and how that results in a synchronous display. So, though the question is getting some attention, there’s still not really an answer to it.

“It’s still kind of a mystery. There’s unanswered questions in there,” Nichols said.

Their life cycle, and where it occurs, are not even exactly certain. In the park, the larvae live for about one year before pupating, but in the northern extent of the firefly’s range that duration could be as long as two years. It’s hard to say. Then, they pupate and emerge as adults incapable of eating anything at all. They live for three to four weeks to mate and lay eggs, and then they die.

No one even knows, exactly, where all Photinus carolinus lives. Though Elkmont holds probably the highest density of synchronous fireflies, Nichols isn’t as sure as she used to be that the Smokies have the only high-density population.

“Generally, I used to say that, but now I know a researcher who’s working in the Allegheny Mountains [in Pennsylvania],” Nichols said, and that researcher has found some pretty impressive displays even that far north.

Once darkness descended on Elkmont, though, nobody was thinking too hard about the whys, wheres and hows. It was all about the show. Even Macko’s reservations disappeared after a few hours spent watching an entire forest blink on and off at the whim of a million tiny insects.

“It was great,” he said. “I wish my grandchildren were here to see it.”

“We’ve heard about it for years,” his sister-in-law Mary Macko, 55, said as she got in line to board the last trolley out. “Just to see it, it’s hard to put it into words. It’s beautiful.”

245-15

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June 18-24, 2014

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Libraries across the mountains are in summer mode with a robust lineup of educational programs for kids. Special guests will offer several free programs on science and nature topics, as well as their regular line-up of story times and other activities.

Here are a few of the upcoming programs on tap through June. Watch the “Kids and Families” section of the calendar for more programs throughout the summer.

Jackson County library

■ “Fur, Feathers, and Scales” with the Balsam Mountain Trust will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 19. Space limited.

■ A program on carnivorous plants will be held June 25 with Jane Fitzgerald of the Jackson County Soil and Water Agency.

Children through age 11 are invited to an 11 a.m. program, and teens 12-18 are invited to a 3 p.m. program.

■ The State Natural History Museum’s Dinosaur Exhibit will come to the Jackson County Public Library at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 26. Museum scientists will discuss the science of paleontology and display specimens, fossils and dinosaur models. Free, but space is limited, with tickets being distributed starting at 5:30 p.m.

Swain County library

Macon County library

■ A program called “No Bones About It!” geared for third through fifth graders will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 25.

■ The North Carolina Museum of Natural Science will host a dinosaur discovery at 10 a.m. Friday, June 27.

Haywood County Library

■ Jonathan Fain of Stones and Bones will present an interactive program exploring how volcanoes and plate tectonics created the Appalachian mountains at 11 a.m. June 18 at the Canton library and June 19 in Waynesville. Participants will have the chance to examine an extensive fossil collection and make their own discoveries.

■ The Super Summer Science Fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at the Waynesville library, will give kids of all ages a chance to run experiments while enjoying entertainment from Mountain Circus Arts, as well as refreshments.

■ The Summer Science Fun Club, a group of children 9 to 16 interested in a summer of experiments and make-and-take activities, will learn physics with Western Carolina University instructor Kelley Dinkelmeyer at 1:30 p.m. June 26 at the Waynesville library. Dinkelmeyer will bring demonstrations and talk about the life of a physicist. Space is limited; register at 828.452.5169.

■ The Knoxville Zoomobile will visit Haywood County on June 25 at 11 a.m. at the Waynesville library and 2 p.m. in Canton. The interactive program will include time to touch animals and artifacts.

Haywood Waterways is now selling “trout” to compete in their annual Trout Race held at 5 p.m. on June 22 in Maggie Valley in conjunction with the weekend PlottFest.

The “trout” are carved wooden replicas that will be released near the Maggie fairgrounds and race down Jonathan Creek to the finish line.

The first six contestants across the finish line win a prize, including a Trout ready to race. spa package courtesy of Balsam Spa, zipline and whitewater rafting from Wildwater, golf from Lake Junaluska Golf Course, a picnic from The Swag, and a rain barrel from Haywood Waterways. Winners need not be present to win.

The fundraiser will benefit Haywood Waterways, HeadStart’s work to assist children of low-income families and Trout

Unlimited- Cataloochee Chapter’s veterans and youth education programs.

Tickets are $3 each or two for $5. They can be purchased at the event or in advance at Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters, HomeTrust Bank in Waynesville and Frog Level Brewing.

Herons take bite out of trout in the mountains Anglers fishing state-stocked waters might have less success this summer, as excessive great blue heron predation at the Bobby Setzer State Fish Hatchery in Pisgah National Forest has set back the trout supply used for stocking. The hatchery provides trout for stocking in 25 counties in Western North Carolina.

“Great blue herons have taken a significant toll on all of the fish in the outdoor raceways at the Bobby Setzer Fish Hatchery,” said Bob Curry, fisheries chief for the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. “Staff has placed screen covers on the raceways and installed sonic and light deterrents — exclusion measures designed to reduce the predation impact from the herons.”

The heron hit will not affect stocking on the Qualla Boundary, however, as those waters are stocked robustly by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, which operates its own hatchery. www.ncwildlife.org.

June 18-24, 2014

■ Children in third through fifth grade will get a chance to make dinosaur eggs at 11 a.m. Monday, June 23. They’ll then use a magic solution to dissolve them.

■ The most popular program of the year will return with the “Birds of Prey” show presented by Balsam Mountain Trust at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 24. Michael Skinner will give a hands-on discussion of the birds’ biology and habitat, and he’ll bring a few to visit.

■ The North Carolina Museum of Natural Science will take children in pre-kinder-

garten through fifth grade on a dinosaur discovery at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 25, with plenty of hands-on activity involved.

■ Teenagers will create duct tape dinosaur masterpieces at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26.

Get your race on with Haywood Waterways

outdoors

Libraries bring science and nature to life for kids

Kids, want to raise lambs?

2013 showmanship winners.

Bug day crawling with activity

Bug Day at the Cradle of Forestry in America, held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 21, will give all ages a chance to learn about the six-legged creatures all around us.

Participants can explore ponds at 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., hunt bugs at 1:20 a.m. and 2 p.m. or participate in a guided walk at 3 p.m. to look for evidence of plant/insect interrelationships. Monarch conservation, an observation beehive, bug crafts and a program about converting lawns to native landscaping at 1:30 p.m. will round out the dat. $5 for adults; free to youth under 16. Located on U.S. 276 four miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway. 828.877.3130 or www.cradleofforestry.com.

Smoky Mountain News

The Macon County 4-H Market Lamb Program is looking for youth ages 5 to 18 who want to learn how to raise and care for lambs. Participants must have a dry, cool place for lambs to live during the summer, provide clean feed and water and exercise lambs daily in preparation for show day. Macon County Farm Bureau supports the program and purchases lambs from the participants when it’s over.

Tammara Talley, 828.349.2046.

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outdoors

Steep Canyon Rangers pen song and music for Graveyard Fields

A million miles away is just down the road.

The Grammy Award-winning bluegrass band Steep Canyon Rangers gathered on the Blue Ridge Parkway this spring, instruments in hand, to help the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation raise the $50,000 they still need to complete the $350,000 Graveyard Fields restoration project.

The band’s instrumental piece “Graveyard Fields” appeared in the band’s latest album, Tell the Ones I Love, and Steep Canyon Rangers agreed to make a music video at the popular parkway site, in cooperation with Bonesteel Films, to support the restoration project. The project, scheduled for completion before July 4, includes construction of a much-needed

visitnc.com Steep Canyon Rangers films a music video atop the parkway. Donated photo

restroom, significant trail improvements, and expansion of the parking lot The music video is online at www.brpfoundation/graveyardfields.

American turkey. Donated photo

Movie screening chronicles one human’s journey as a turkey The acclaimed PBS Nature film My Life as a Turkey will get an airing 7 p.m. June 23 at the Hudson Library in Highlands. The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society is presenting this film, based on a true story, about wildlife artist and naturalist Joe Hutto. Hutto is given a bowl of wild turkey eggs, which he incubates and then allows the 16 turkey chicks to imprint on him.

Hutto spends more than a year as “mother” of his young brood, bonding in ways he never expected.

June 18-24, 2014

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Mountain Realty Come visit us at our Smoky Mountain News

NEWLY OPENED Downtown Waynesville location Our 3rd office to better serve you!

2177 Russ Avenue Waynesville, NC 828-452-9393 866-795-9393 36

26 North Main Street Waynesville, NC 828-564-9393 (Beside City Bakery)

3073 Soco Road Maggie Valley, NC 828-926-9225 866-926-9225

Mountain Farm Museum.

Volunteers wanted for Smokies backcountry trail work weeks The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is looking for volunteers to join its Smokies Wilderness Elite Appalachian Trail Crew for the 2014 season. The SWEAT Crew is a mobile group that maintains trails in the heart of the Smokies. Volunteers should be experienced hikers who love to work hard and experience the backcountry with others who share the same love for it. Each session

Landslide inventory in Jackson County

Donated photo

The annual Women’s Work Festival will once again come to the Mountain Farm Museum in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 21. This festival honors the vast contributions women of the Southern Appalachians made while showcasing the ways these women kept their families going.

Visitors will get to see hearth cooking, soap making, cornshuck crafts, sewing, spinning and traditional mountain music, and

hands-on activities will give families a chance to try these traditions out themselves. Exhibits and historic photographs will deepen the glimpse into the lives of rural women the festival provides, and the Davis-Queen house will be open with an audio exhibit featuring the last child born in the house.

Free. Mountain Farm Museum is adjacent to Oconaluftee Visitor Center, two miles north of Cherokee on U.S. 441 at the main N.C. entrance to the park. 828.497.1904.

lasts six days, with food, lodging, training, equipment and transportation to and from the work site provided.

Upcoming sessions are: July 6-11; July 1621; July 26-30; Aug. 13-1 and Aug. 22-26. www.appalachiantrail.org/crews

Bryson City Bicycles hits the trail for anniversary celebration

A Niner group ride and demo will celebrate Bryson City Bicycles’ five-year anniversary June 21-22. The festivities will begin at 3 p.m. June 21 with a big group Niner ride at Tsali Recreation Area.

Afterward, the group will retire to Cork & Bean in Bryson City for Tap Takeover with Oskar Blues, 6 to 9 p.m. Samples, schwag and giveaways will all be part of the evening. The celebration will continue the next day with Niner Demo Day at Tsali Recreation Area. A variety of Niner bikes will be available for test drives. Bryson City Bicycles, 828.488.1988.

The results of a landslide hazard mapping project in the greater Cullowhee area of Jackson County will be presented from 6 to 7:30 p.m. June 24 at Western Carolina University.

The landslide hazard inventory focuses on the Wayehutta Creek watershed, the mountainside that flanks Cullowhee to the east. It picks up where a state landslide mapping program, aimed at cataloging landslide risks across WNC, left off. After being axed by state legislators, landslide mapping advocates sought grants to continue the work, although on a much smaller scale. A $10,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Council Toolbox Implementation Fund funded the landslide work in Wayehutta area of Jackson County.

Appalachian Landslide Consultants mapped more than 13,000 acres in the Tuckasegee River watershed, inventorying 37 landslides, 116 ancient landslide deposits and 10 areas of subsidence.

This project was a collaboration between the Southwestern NC Resource Conservation & Development Council, the Jackson County Planning Department and the Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River.

The presentation will be held at the second floor meeting room of Stillwell Building.

828.507.9144 or rogerclapp@watrnc.org.

25-75% OFF

June 18-24, 2014

Summer Sale

outdoors

Smokies festival honors Appalachian women

Select Clearance Items

Velvet Stone • Vocal Apparel Los Altos Boots

Smoky Mountain News

20% OFF Exit 100 off U.S. 74

AFFLICTION • MISS ME • INOX • HOT LEATHERS HARLEY-DAVIDSON • BELL • MUSTANG 828.452.7276 EASYRIDERS • ROADWARE • ALPINESTARS • FULMER SMSH.CO FOR OUR FULL INVENTORY DRAG SPECIALTIES • GRACE IN LA • ROAR Mon.-Fri. 9-6 | Sat. 9-5 | Closed Sun. 82 LOCUST DRIVE | WAYNESVILLE | NC

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WNC Calendar

Smoky Mountain News

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • Spring Carnival, 5 p.m. weekdays, 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 17-21, downtown Canton. Coupons offering unlimited rides for $15 ($5 savings) available at local businesses and Canton Town Hall.

• Glenville Area Historical Society (GAHS), 2014 calendar Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social, 3 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, June 21, The Glenville Wesleyan Church. historicalsocietyglenvillearea@yahoo.com.

• Indoor Flea Market, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 21, The Old Armory, Waynesville. Booths, $10 each for selling items.456.9207.

• Sapphire Valley Resorts 60th Anniversary Party, 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Sapphire Valley Community Center. RSVP, svcommunitycenter@gmail.com.

• PlottFest 2014, Saturday, June 21-Sunday, June 22, Maggie Valley Fairgrounds. Fundraiser for Head Start. www.plottfest.org.

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted.

• Bishop Kenneth Carter, guest preacher, 10:45 a.m.

Sunday, June 29, Summer Worship Series, historic Stewart Auditorium, Lake Junaluska; Holy Communion, 9 a.m., Memorial Chapel. 800.222.4930, www.lakejunaluska.com/summer-worship.

• Taize Service of Prayer and Song, 8 p.m. Monday, June 23, Memorial Chapel, Lake Junaluska, 800.222.4930, www.lakejunaluska.com/summer-worship.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES • Fall prevention program, 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19, Waynesville Recreation Center, Waynesville. Presented

by Mountaineer Complete Care. Learn simple, effective strategies for preventing falls. 456.2030.

• “Fitness and Aging,” seminar 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, Department of Aging/Senior Center, 100 County Services Park, Sylva. 586.4944.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • Free 90-minute beginner class on Microsoft PowerPoint, 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, Jackson County Public Library computer lab. Register, 586.2016.

• Haywood Chamber of Commerce annual awards dinner, 5 to 7:30 p.m. June 19, Laurel Ridge Country Club.

• Haywood Chamber Young Professionals, 8 to 9 a.m.

Friday, June 20, Coffee Cup Café, 48 Haywood Park Drive, Clyde.

• Five Year Anniversary and Niner Demo, June, Bryson City Bicycles, 157 Everett St., P.O. Box, 250, Bryson City, NC. www.brysoncitybicycles.com.

• “Wine & Dine Under the Stars Gala” 6 p.m. July 19, Village Green Commons, Cashiers, with proceeds going to establish the Student Success Endowment. Hosted

by Southwestern Community College Foundation. Tickets are on sale at Zoller Hardware, Scotlyn’s Yard Nursery, Tangles, Dovetail Antiques, and the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce. 339.4227.

• Computer Class: Internet Safety, 5:45 p.m. Monday, June 23, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS • Quesadilla fundraiser, 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 21, Jackson County Farmers Market, Bridge Park, downtown Sylva. Proceeds go to building of a storage shed on Bridge Park property.

• American Legion Riders Day, registration 11 a.m., kickstands up at noon, Saturday, June 21, American Legion Post 47 Waynesville. $10 per bike or car and $5 extra per passenger. Includes meal. Extra meals $5 for non-riders. Donations to chosen charities. 246.0690.

HEALTH MATTERS • Ladies Night Out Program: Melanoma Awareness, 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. June 24, Angel Medical Center cafeteria. Register, 349.2426 or dwilde@maconnc.org.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome seminar, 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, MedWest Haywood Health & Fitness Center.

Katherine, 452.8883 or medwesthaywood.org/seminar.

THE SPIRITUAL SIDE • “Quest for Truth,” 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 26-27 and 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 28-29, Our Savior Lutheran Church, 785 Paragon Parkway, Clyde, for children ages 3-12. Stories, games, crafts, and a meal each day.

456.6493.

KIDS & FAMILIES

weeklong hands-on class focusing on the art of fly-fishing. Ages 8 to 15. Register, 877.4423 or ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

• Create dinosaur eggs and use magic solution to dissolve them, 11 a.m. Monday, June 23, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. Third through fifth graders.

488.3030.

• Gone Fishin,’ 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education. Ages 5-12. 877.4423, or ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

• Carnivorous plants program with Jane Fitzgerald of the Jackson County Soil and Water Agency, 11 a.m. (for children from birth to 11 years of age) and 3 p.m. (for children ages 12 to 18) Wednesday, June 25, Story time Room, Jackson County Public Library. 586-2016, www.fontanalib.org.

• “Dinosaur Discovery,” 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 26, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. Presented by North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. For pre-K through fifth graders. 488.3030.

• Summer Science Fun Club: Physics, with Kelley Dinkelmeyer, physics instructor at HCC, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 26, Haywood County Public Library, Waynesville. Ages 9 to 16. Register at 452.5169.

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 • Haywood County Arts Council Jam Camp, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, July 8 – Friday, July 11, Canton Middle School, 60 Penland St., Canton. $75. For students in grades 4th through 8th. Register at Haywood County Arts Council, 452.0593.

• Innovative Basketball Training Summer Basketball Camp, 9 a.m. to noon, July 7-9, Waynesville Recreation Center, Waynesville. $125 per person. Register from 8 to 9 a.m. July 7 at the Waynesville Recreation Center.

246.2129 or 456.2030.

• Puppet-making camp, July 14-18, Highlands Playhouse, for children ages 9 to 12. $250. 526.2695.

• Jonathan Fain of Stones and Bones, 11 a.m.

Wednesday, June 18, Haywood County Library, Canton; 11 a.m. Thursday, June 19, Haywood County Library, Waynesville. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• Create duct tape masterpieces, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. For teens.

488.3030.

• Summer Soccer Day Camp, July 14-18, Swain County Recreation Park, for players age 5 to 18. Half day or full day sessions. scline@sclinesoftware.com, 736.0455, or www.ncsoccer.org/recreation/recCamps/.

• Motion of the Ocean, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. For preschool children.

• Family Art at the Market, 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 28, Jackson County Farmers Market. Papermaking with local artist Frank Brannon. jacksoncountyfarmermarket.com.

• Waynesville Recreation Center Basketball Camp with instructor Kevin Cantwell, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 14-17, Waynesville Recreation Center, Waynesville. $150, academy7@live.com.

• Pottery wheel classes for kids, 10 a.m. to noon, Mondays, June 30 to July 21; 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays, June 30 to July 21; and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, July 3-24, Pincu Pottery, Bryson City. For children ages 10 and up. $113. Register, 488.0480 or email pincupottery@gmail.com.

• British Soccer Camp, full-day, half-day, July 21-25, Waynesville Recreation Center. www.challengersports.com, 456-2030 or email dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Hands in Science: Children’s Science Program, 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Experimental Times: Teen Science Program, 3 p.m.

Wednesday, June 18, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Teen-only event, 6 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Community Room, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva, featuring Dave Waldrop, local author, poet and singer-songwriter.

586.2016.

• 4-H three-week textiles class, 2 to 5 p.m. June 19, 26 and July 2, Cowee Textiles. For youth 9 to 18 years of age. $15 for all three classes. 349.2046.

• A “Sculpted Masks and Performance” youth arts class, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 23-27, Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. $225 per child, with materials included. www.cullowheemountainarts.org.

• “Come Paint with Charles Kidz Program,” 5 p.m. June 19, 24 and 26, Charles Heath Gallery, Bryson City. $18 per child, per class. 538.2054.

• Nature Nuts: Raising Trout, 9 to 11 a.m. June 21 and 27, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, Pisgah National Forest. For ages 4-7. Register, 877.4423, /ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

• Super Summer Science Fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, June 21, Waynesville Library.

• Eco Explorers: Stream Investigation, 1 to 3 p.m. June 21 and 27, Davidson River, Pisgah National Forest.

Register, 877.4423 or ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

• Free Robotics and Machining Summer Camp, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 23 – 27, Haywood Community College, for rising high school sophomores and juniors.

627.4631 or email hightech@haywood.edu. www.haywood.edu.

• A Week in the Water, 9 a.m. to noon June 23-27, Davidson River, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. A

Summer Camps • Lake Junaluska and Roots in Education Day Camp, 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, through Aug. 15, Wilson Children’s Complex, 21 Shackford Hall Road, Lake Junaluska. Fullday and halfday, drop-in.

Angel Benson. 400.4841, rootsineducation@gmail.com or stop by Wilson’s Children’s Complex, 21 Shackford Hall Road (near the pool) at Lake Junaluska.

• Western Carolina University’s Division of Educational Outreach is hosting numerous camps for children this summer: www.wcu.edu/academics/edoutreach/conted/campsand-programs-for-kids/.

• Western Carolina University’s Athletics is hosting a sports camp for children this summer: www.catamountsports.com/camps/wcar-camps.html.

• Cullowhee Mountain ARTS Summer Youth ARTS Series, 2, 4 and 5-day art camps for ages 5 – 12, Western Carolina University’s Bardo Arts Center and the School of Art and Design. Details at www.cullowheemountainarts.org or 342.6913.

• TetraBrazil Soccer Camp, half-day camp 9 a.m. to noon; full-day camp 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 23 – 27, Waynesville Recreation Center. Every camper will receive a free ball and t-shirt. Half day, $152 per camper; full day, $202 per camper. 3 vs 3 tournament, 6 to 8 pm for ages 8 to 15. $52 per camper. challengersports.com. 456.2030 or email recathletics@townofwaynesville.org.

• 22nd annual Crossfire Basketball Camp, 1 to 4:30 p.m. June 30 to July 3, Waynesville Recreation Center. $75 per person. 456-2030 or email recathletics@townofwaynesville.org.

• Summer Writing Adventure for Swain County rising freshmen students, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and noon to 3 p.m. (one session only required), Aug. 4-8. Register by June 25. Sonya Blankenship, 488.3129 ext. 240 or email at sblankenship@swainmail.org.

Literary (children) • Summer Reading Program kick off, “Fur, Feathers, and Scales,” with Rose Wall of Balsam Mountain Trust.

11 a.m. Thursday, June 19, Community Room of the Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. Tickets available starting at 10 a.m. on the morning of the event at the Youth Services desk in the library. 586.2016.

• Jonathan Fain of Stones and Bones, 11 a.m.

Wednesday, June 18, Haywood County Library, Canton; 11 a.m. Thursday, June 19, Haywood County Library, Waynesville. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• Motion of the Ocean, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. For preschool children.

• Hands in Science: Children’s Science Program, 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Experimental Times: Teen Science Program, 3 p.m.

Wednesday, June 18, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Between The Lines: Dave Waldrop’s Song Search, 6 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Ronald McDonald, 11 a.m. Thursday, June 19, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City.

• Spark a Reaction, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. For rising sixth through twelfth grade students.

• Children’s Story time, 11 a.m. Friday, June 20, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Super Summer Science Fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, June 21, Haywood County Public Library, Waynesville. 452.5169. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• Children’s Story time, 2 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Children’s Story time, 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Children’s Craft Time, 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Teen Arts and Craft Program, 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, Jackson County Public Library. Sylva. 586.2016.

• Knoxville Zoomobile, 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 25, Haywood County Public Library, Canton. Enjoy a special collection of small animals and artifacts. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• “Read With Me,” 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, Swain Middle School Cafeteria. Program to encourage parents and caregivers of children birth through age 9 to read actively with children each night.

• Summer Reading Program “Fizz, Boom, Read,” through June 27, Macon County Public Library. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

• Special event for children of all ages, 10 a.m.

Friday, June 20, Macon County Public Library, Franklin. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

• Kindergarten Readiness Story time, 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday, June 23, Macon County Public Library, Franklin. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

• Story time, for ages birth to 7, 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, Macon County Public Library, Franklin. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

• No Bones About It! for third through fifth graders, 10 a.m. to Wednesday, June 25, Macon County Public Library, Franklin. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

• Dinosaur Discovery, 10 a.m. Friday, June 27, Macon County Public Library, Franklin. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

ECA EVENTS Extension and Community Association (ECA) groups meet throughout the county at various locations and times each month. 586.4009. This month’s meetings, listed by date, include: • 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19 - ECA Craft Club Workshop – Cards, Conference Room of Community Service Center, Sylva (call Extension Office for more information and to sign up for the workshop).

Dems • New hours at the Macon County Democratic Party Headquarters, 251 Sloan Road. Now open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Office Hours will increase later this summer. 369.8561. Marge Abel, 369.8159, or Shirl Ches, 524.9991.

GOP • North Jackson County Republicans meeting 6 p.m. dinner, 6:30 p.m. meeting, Monday, June 23, Ryan’s, Sylva. South Jackson County Republicans meeting Tuesday, June 24, Cashiers Republican Headquarters at Laurel Terrace Suite 8 on Highway 64 East. Ralph Slaughter, 743.6491, jacksonctygop@yahoo.com or jacksoncountygop.com.

• Free Skills Clinic, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, Republican Party South, Jackson Headquarters, in Laurel Terrace in Cashiers. www.eventbrite/e/heritageaction-sentinel-skills-clinic-cashiers-nc-tickets. Ginny Jahrmarkt, Box547@aol.com.

• OccupyWNC, General Assembly, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24, Room 246, Jackson Justice Center, 2001 Grindstaff Road, Sylva.

A&E FESTIVALS, SPECIAL & SEASONAL EVENTS • Women’s Work Festival, Saturday, June 21, Mountain Farm Museum, Cherokee. www.greatsmokies.com.

• Director’s Circle Jazz Brunch, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 22, at The Bascom in Highlands. shill@thebascom.org or 526.4949.

• Nikwasi Players, traditional mountain dulcimer, 3:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, Cowee Farmers Market, 51 Cowee School Drive, old Cowee School, Franklin. coweefarmersmarket.com.

• Folkmoot USA Open House, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 26, to celebrate Haywood County’s generous donation of the historic Hazelwood School to the cultural organization, www.FolkmootUSA.org.

• NC State Natural History Museum’s Dinosaur Exhibit, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, Community Room, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. Limited to first 150 people to get tickets. Tickets dispersed at 5:30 p.m. at the Youth Services desk in the Library. Free.

586.2016.

• HCC’s Appalachian Music Program, 627.4669, 564.5091 or email bapinkston@haywood.edu.

Arts & Crafts Show June 21 & 22 • 9am - 4pm

Blue Ridge Artists & Crafters

50+ Crafters • All Indoors All Handmade Crafts Food • Door Prizes Free Parking & Admission HAYWOOD COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS HWY. 209 • LAKE JUNALUSKA, NC Directions: From I-40 take Exit 24; Go South on Hwy 209. 3.7 miles on left.

From Hwy 19/23 take Exit 104; Go North on Hwy 209 1 mile on right.

For more information, visit bracaorg.com

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LITERARY (ADULTS) • Coffee with the Poet featuring Rosemary Rhodes Royston, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 19, City Lights Bookstore. Royston presents her chapbook, Splitting the Soil,” 586.9499.

• Friends of the Albert Carlton Cashiers Community Library annual Summer Book Sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, June 20, and Saturday, June 21, AC Cashiers Community Library, 259 Frank Allen Drive, Cashiers.

743.0215.

• Jane Alexander 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Blue Ridge Books, Blue Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St., Waynesville.

456.6000, www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

• Charles A. Van Bibber, 3 p.m. Saturday, June 28, Blue Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St., Waynesville.

456.6000, www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

• Native Cowee poet, Rose McLarney 11 a.m.

Saturday, June 21, Rickman Store, 259 Cowee Creek Road.

Smoky Mountain News

POLITICAL GROUP EVENTS & LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Others

Blue Ridge Mountains

June 18-24, 2014

• Art Story time, for children birth to 7 years old, 10 a.m. Thursday, June 26, Macon County Public Library, Franklin. www.fontanalib.org, 524.3600.

• Heritage Action Event, 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, Jackson County GOP Headquarters (South) Highway 64 East Laurel Terrace, Unit #8, Cashiers.

The 3rd Annual wnc calendar

• Children’s Story time, 3:30 p.m. Friday, June 20, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Heritage Action Event, 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, Smoky Falls Lodge & Moonshine Grill Conference Room, 2550 Soco Road, Maggie Valley. Free. Register at http://tiny.cc/zra1gx.

• Sylva writer Nelma Jean Bryson, 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, City Lights Bookstore, 586.9499.

• Appalachian Trail thru-hiker Jeff Alt, 10 a.m. to noon Sunday, June 22, at Sugarlands Visitor Center and from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 22, at Clingmans Dome Visitor Center, Sunday, June 22. SmokiesInformation.org or call 888.898.9102, Ext. 222 or 254.

39

wnc calendar

• Conversations with Poetry, with Michael Beadle, local poet and educator, Thursdays, June 19, and 26, and July 3. Waynesville library auditorium. 452.5169, www.haywoodlibrary.org, beadlewriter@yahoo.com.

ON STAGE & IN CONCERT • Grace Noon Concert Series last performance, noon Thursday, June 19, Thatcher Hall, Grace Episcopal Church, 394 N. Haywood St., Waynesville, with a Dixieland Jazz presentation by The Frog Level Philharmonic. Free, no collection taken. 926.8721.

• Betsy’s School of Dance summer recital “Framed,” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Franklin. $10 for adults, $7 for students. www.greatmountainmusic.com or 866.273.4615.

to 12. Tickets, 526.2695 or at the Box Office, 362 Oak St., Highlands.

• Gin Blossoms & Spin Doctors, 8 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Harrah’s Cherokee Event Center, 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee. Tickets start at $19.50. 800.745.3000.

• “Grand Night for Singing,” 7:30 p.m. June 20-21, 27-28 and July 5; and at 3 p.m. June 22, 29 and July 6, HART Theater, 250 Pigeon St., Waynesville. $24, adults, $20, seniors, and $10, students. Special $8 discount tickets for students for Thursdays and Sundays. Box Office hours: 1 to 5 p.m. MondaySaturday. Tickets, 456.6322 or www.harttheatre.org.

• Oklahoma!, 7:30 p.m. June 27, June 28, and July 5, and 4 p.m. June 29, July 4 and July 6. Broadway-scale production directed by Robert Ray. 866.273.4615, GreatMountainMusic.com.

June 20 — A-36 Band June 21 — Eastern Blue Band June 27 — A-36 Band June 28 — The Boomers

CULLOWHEE

• Haywood County Arts Council’s “Mountain Made” exhibit, featuring local crafters and artisans, through June 28, Gallery 86, 86 N. Main St., downtown Waynesville.

• Western Carolina University, 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Central Plaza, 227.3618.

June 24—The Honeycutters

• Sylva artist James Smythe, featured artist at the Rotunda Gallery, Jackson County Courthouse, during June.

FRANKLIN

• “FLORA: Contemporary Botanical Prints from the FAM’s Littleton Studios Vitreograph Archive,” through Sept. 5, Fine Art Museum, John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center, WCU. 227.3591 or fineartmuseum.wcu.edu.

• Pickin’ on the Square, 7 p.m. Saturdays, Town Hall June 21 — Curtis Blackwell & The Dixie Bluegrass Boys June 28 — Gem City (gospel)

FRANKLIN

• Jazz Cats, 6 p.m. June 28, Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. www.jacksoncountyarts.org.

• HART Theatre auditions for The Odd Couple, 6:30 p.m. June 29-30, HART, 250 Pigeon St., Waynesville.

• Outdoor 76 Concert Series, 7 p.m. downtown Franklin, 349.7676, www.outdoor76.com June 26—Nitrograss, $5 per person.

• Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper, 7 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, June 21, Macon County Heritage Center at the Historic Cowee School, Franklin. Tickets, $15 general admission, CoweeSchool.org, Franklin Chamber of Commerce or at the door. 349.1945.

Show runs Aug. 22 through Sept. 7.

HIGHLANDS

• Carolina Dusk, 6 p.m. Tuesday June 24, Community Room, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva.

586.2016.

• Bluegrass group The Maggie Valley Band, 7:45 p.m.

Thursday, June 26, The Strand, 38 Main, Waynesville. $12. www.38main.com or 283.0079.

• ‘An Appalachian Evening’ concert with The Kruger Brothers, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, Stecoah Valley Center, Schoolhouse Road Robbinsville. Tickets, $25 adult, $10 for students, K-12, plus tax. 479.3364, www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

• Little Shop of Horrors, through June 29, Highlands Playhouse. $32.50 for adults and $15 for children up

OUTDOOR MUSIC CALENDAR BRYSON CITY • 6:30 p.m. Saturdays, Train Depot June 21 — The Freight Hoppers (Americana/bluegrass) June 28 — Lonesome Sound (old-time string)

• Friday Night Live, 6 p.m. Fridays, Town Square June 20 — Southern Highlands June 27 — Mountain High Dulcimer Group

HIGHLANDS • Saturdays on Pine, 6 p.m. Saturdays, KelseyHutchinson Park June 21 — Well Strung June 28 — Jerry Bones

CASHIERS

SYLVA

• Groovin’ On The Green, 6:30 p.m. Fridays, Village Commons June 20 — Soldier’s Heart (Americana/folk) June 27 — Jackson Taylor Band (blues/jazz/rock/country)

• Concerts on the Creek, 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Bridge Park June 20 — Johnny Webb Band June 27 — Mountain Faith

CHEROKEE • Music on the River, 8 p.m. select nights, Oconaluftee River Stage

MUSIC JAMS • 7 p.m. Fridays, Pickin’ in the Park, June through Labor Day, Canton • Community Music Jam, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City.

488.3030.

June 18-24, 2014

DANCE • High Mountain Squares “Black and White Dance,” 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 20, Macon County Community Building, Georgia Road (441 South), Franklin. Jim Cosman from Woodbine, Ga., will call.

371.4946, 342.1560, 332.0001 or www.highmountainsquare.com.

• Dance, 8 p.m. Friday, June 20, Angie’s Dance Academy, 115 Glance St., Clyde. Music provided by Paul Indelicato. $10, 734.8726.

FOOD & DRINK

Smoky Mountain News

• Sunburst Trout Farms Second Summer Solstice Soiree for ASAP, 5:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Sunburst Trout Farm, 128 Raceway Place, Canton.

Tickets, $100 per person, or 10-person table for $850.

Reservations at asapconnections.org. Rain or shine.

• Patron Party, 6 to 11 p.m. Thursday, June 26, The Country Club of Sapphire Valley. $500 per person. www.tasteoftheplateau.org.

Fresh. LOCAL. Yours.

Visit your local Farmer’s Markets.

40

To learn more about your local farmer’s markets, visit

mountainwise.org

Macon County Public Library.

• Taste of the Plateau, 6 to 11 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at the Summit Charter School. $125 per person. www.tasteoftheplateau.org.

• Western North Carolina Alliance Wild Foods/Mushroom Hunt and Tasting, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, with Alan Muskat, aka “The Mushroom Man.” Isabelle Rios, Isabelle@WNCA.org, 258.8737, ext. 201. www.notastelikehome.org/special_events.php).

ART/GALLERY EVENTS & OPENINGS • Artist reception for photographer Karen Lawrence, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Meeting Room of the

• Cullowhee Mountain Arts Summer Faculty Exhibition artist reception, 5 to 7 p.m. June 19, Fine Arts Museum, Western Carolina University. Exhibit will run June 19-July 25 Features the work of over 23 artists, from ceramics to printmaking, painting to mixed media. www.wcu.edu.

• “North Carolina Art Educators” exhibit, through July 18, Fine Art Museum, John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center, WCU. 227.3591 or fineartmuseum.wcu.edu.

• “A Lasting Legacy,” a new exhibit featuring the creative work of local women from the late 19th century, Jackson County Historical Society’s display area in the Jackson County Public Library Complex in Sylva.

Through July. 227.7129.

• Haywood Community College’s Professional Crafts department 2014 Graduate Show, through Sept. 14, Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center, Mile Post 382, Blue Ridge Parkway. 565.4159.

• Cullowhee Mountain ARTS 2014 Summer ARTS Series, through July 18, five weeks, Western Carolina University. www.cullowheemountainarts.org or 342.6913.

CLASSES, PROGRAMS & DEMONSTRATIONS • Cullowhee Mountain Arts Summer Faculty Exhibition and Reception, 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Fine Arts Museum, WCU. Exhibition, June 19-July 25. fineartmuseum.wcu.edu.

• Stamped Card Making, 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19, Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office, Sylva. $5. Register, 586.4009.

• Western North Carolina Carvers (WNCC) monthly meeting, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 22, Harvest House, 205 Kenilworth Road, Asheville. 665.8273.

• Beginning Crochet Series, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, June 24, July 1 and July 15, Masonic Lodge, Dillsboro. $10. Register by June 20, 586.2435 or junejpell@hotmail.com.

• Art League of Highlands-Cashiers monthly meetings, 4:30 p.m. June 30, July 28, Aug. 25, Sept. 29 and Oct. 27, The Bascom in Highlands.. www.artleagueofhighlands.com.

• Summer ARTS Series, through July 26, Western Carolina University in the Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center. Details, www.cullowheemountainarts.org or 342.6913.

• Adult pottery pot class, 7 to 9 p.m. June 27, July 25 and Aug. 22, Pincu Pottery, Bryson City. $25 per person. Register, 488.0480 or email pincupottery@gmail.com.

FILM & SCREEN • Movie, 300, 9:30 p.m. June 19, Central Plaza at Western Plaza, Western Carolina University. Free. corelli@wcu.edu or 227.3618.

• The Lego Movie, 7:45 p.m. June 20 and 2 p.m. (matinee), 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. June 21, The Strand, 38 Main, Waynesville. Tickets, $6 per person, $4 for children. 283.0079 or www.38main.com.

with Jack Johnston, 9 a.m. Wednesday, June 26. Meet at 9 a.m. at Queens Branch. Sharon Burdette, 524.2711 ext. 305 or sburdette@ltlt.org.

• Adult movie, 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 20, Jackson County Public Library, Sylva. 586.2016.

• Nantahala Hiking Club, leisurely Stewartia hike, Friday, June 27. Meet at 10 a.m. at Queen’s Branch property. Led by Jack Johnston.

DavidLippy04@aol.com, 369.1951.

• Computer animated adventure film for the whole family, 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City, featuring an orphaned Iguanodon named Aladar. 488.3030.

• Muppets Most Wanted, 9:30 p.m. June 26, Central Plaza at Western Carolina University. Free. corelli@wcu.edu or 227.3618.

• Beasts of the Southern Wild, 7:45 p.m. Friday, June 27 and 2 p.m. matinee, 5 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.

Saturday, June 28, The Strand, 38 Main, Waynesville.

283.0079, www.38main.com.

PROGRAMS & WORKSHOPS

• Cartoons, 10 a.m. Saturdays, The Strand, 38 Main, Waynesville.

Outdoors OUTINGS, HIKES & FIELDTRIPS • Float the Little Tennessee River with the Highlands Biological Foundation, Friday, June 20. Kayaks or canoes available. $40 for members, $50 for nonmembers. www.highlandsbiological.org/forays/ or 526.2221.

• Little Tennessee Land Trust annual Stewartia Hike

• Bug Day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Cradle of Forestry, Pisgah National Forest, 25 miles southeast of Waynesville, Highway 276 South. $5 for 16 and up.

Youth free. Federal Recreation Access/Golden Age passports honored. www.cradleofforestry.com/site/, 877.3130.

• Women’s Work Festival, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Mountain Farm Museum, Oconaluftee Visitors Center, two miles north of Cherokee, 497.1904.

• Biodiversity Day, June 19-21, Twin Creeks Science Center, 1316 Cherokee Orchard Road, one mile from downtown Gatlinburg, Tenn. www.dlia.org.

• ACA Open Canoe Downriver Nationals, June 18-19, Nantahala Outdoor Center, US 19 West, Bryson City.

• Nantahala Hometown Throwdown, June 21, Nantahala Outdoor Center, US 19 West, Bryson City.

• Kebari Fly-Tying 101, 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 28, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, 1401 Fish Hatchery Road, Pisgah National Forest. Ages 14 and older.

877.4423, ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

• Biodiversity Day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Highlands Biological Station. Presentations and demonstrations. www.highlandsbiological.org or 526.2221.

• Introduction to Tenkara: Level II, 9 to 11 a.m.

Saturday, June 21, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, 1401 Fish Hatchery Road, Pisgah National Forest.

Ages 14 and older. 877.4423, or ncpaws.org/reservations/pisgah/CalendarView.aspx.

• Synchronous Firefly Night Walks, 8:45 to 10:45 p.m.

Through June 21. www.cataloocheevalleytours.com.

• Buy a “trout” from Haywood Waterways for its annual Trout Race, 5 p.m. Sunday, June 22 at Maggie Valley Fairgrounds. Trout tickets are $3 each or two for $5 and can be purchased at the event or in advance at Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters, Waynesville, HomeTrust Bank, Waynesville, and Frog Level Brewing, Waynesville.

Ticket includes a 10 percent off coupon at the Maggie Valley Restaurant. 476.4667, www.haywoodwaterways.

• PBS Nature film, My Life as a Turkey, 7 p.m. Monday, June 23, Hudson Library, Highlands. Presented by the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society.

• Sixth annual Fishing Weir Workshop for Youth, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, June 23, 3096 North River Road. Sponsored by WATR. For kids age 8 to 13. mlcrowe2@catamount.wcu.edu • Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River public meeting announcement, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, Stillwell Building, Geosciences & Natural Resources Department, second floor, Western Carolina University.

• Birds of Prey show with Michael Skinner, 11 a.m.

Tuesday June 24, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City.

488.3030.

• WATR “Swain Clean” meeting, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24.

• Twilight Firefly Tour, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, Pink Beds Picnic Area, about 20 miles southeast of Waynesville, Highway 276 South. Presented by the Cradle of Forestry. $6 adults, $3 children. www.cradleofforestry.com/site/, 877.3130.

FARM & GARDEN • “Grow Glowing Dahlias from Summer to Fall,” 10 a.m. Thursday, at Dovecote Porch & Gardens, 35 Flash Point Drive, Cashiers. http://dargan.com/dovecoteevents/ or 743.0307.

wnc calendar

• Teen movie, featuring Clark Kent, 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, and each Friday throughout the summer, Marianna Black Library, Bryson City. 488.3030.

• Adult Education Class: Designing a Pollinator Garden, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, June 18, The North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville. $20 member/$29 non-member, www.ncarboretumregistration.org.

• The Ikenobo Ikebana Society, Blue Ridge Chapter monthly meeting, 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19, First Congregational Church of Hendersonville,1735 Fifth Ave. W., Hendersonville. 696.4103.

• “Grow and Prepare Herbs for Healing,” 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24, Haywood County Public Library, Waynesville, 678 S. Haywood St., Waynesville, with naturopath Michelle Sanderbeck, N.D. and herbalist and grower Garth Kuver. 356.2507.

• WATR public meeting, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, second floor Meeting Room, Stillwell Building, Western Carolina University.

• Register through Friday, July 11 for the Cullowhee Native Plant Conference, July 16-19, Western Carolina University. nativeplantconference.wcu.edu, Bobby Hensley, WCU associate director of continuing education, hensley@wcu.edu.

• Assistant professor Dr. Mollie Cashner, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 26, Highlands Nature Center. Zahner Conservation Lecture Series. www.highlandsbiological.org, 526.2221.

“Forests, Flowers & Food,” 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, Saturday, June 21. Tickets, $15, at 456.3575. Or reserve your tickets for “will call” on the day of the tour by emailing mgtour2014@charter.net.

• “Way Back When,” dinners at Cataloochee Ranch to celebrate its 80th anniversary: June 27, July 11, July 18, Aug. 1 and Aug. 15. www.cataloocheeranch.com.

• Dendro for a Day Workshop, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or noon until 4 p.m. Saturday, June 28, Haywood Community College. 627.4522. Rain or shine.

June 18-24, 2014

144 Montgomery Street DOWNHILL TO FROG’S LEAP PUBLIC HOUSE, TURN RIGHT, DOWNHILL TO THE BLUE & BRICK BUILDING ON THE LEFT.

Smoky Mountain News

We have relocated to

41

PRIME REAL ESTATE

INSIDE

Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News

AIRCRAFT OPPORTUNITIES

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.

LOOKING FOR NON-EQUITY/ Limited Equity Partners in an Aircraft, at the Jackson County Airport (24A). Projected costs per hour for a Two or Four place aircraft is $30 per hour DRY, with monthly dues of $56, to cover Insurance and Tie Down. This is based on 4 Partners each flying 2.5 hours per month.

For more info contact: Bill Austin at 828.226.6376.

Rates: ■ Free — Residential yard sale ads, lost or found pet ads.

■ Free — Non-business items that sell for less than $150.

■ $12 — Classified ads that are 50 words or less; each additional line is $2.

■ $12 — 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.

■ $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.

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE MAGGIE VALLEY SWAP MEET And Car Show is coming June 27, 28 and 29th to the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. A swap meet, car show and craft show.

Come as a spectator or vendor.

Contact Rodney Buckner at 423.608.4519 www.maggievalleyswapmeet.com

Classified Advertising: Scott Collier, phone 828.452.4251; fax 828.452.3585 | classads@smokymountainnews.com

THE SOUTHEASTERN GAS & PETROLEUM EXPO Is coming July 18 - 19th to the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

Gas station items, toys, tags/plates, old signs, gas pumps, etc. Come as a spectator or vendor. Contact Rodney Buckner at 423.608.4519. www.southeasterngasandpetroleum.com

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828-456-5387

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For Inquiries & Viewing Appmnts.

Call 678.943.7523.

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BUILDING MATERIALS HAYWOOD BUILDERS Garage Doors, New Installations Service & Repairs, 828.456.6051 100 Charles St. Waynesville Employee Owned.

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FREE ESTIMATES! Call 1.800.698.9217 DAVE’S CUSTOM HOMES OF WNC, INC Free Estimates & Competitive rates. References avail. upon request. Specializing in: Log Homes, remodeling, decks, new construction, repairs & additions.

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CARS DONATE YOUR CAR, Truck or Boat to Heritage for the Blind. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 800.337.9038.

TOP CASH FOR CARS, Call Now For An Instant Offer. Top Dollar Paid, Any Car/Truck, Any Condition. Running or Not. Free Pick-up/Tow. 1.800.761.9396 SAPA

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This is an 11 month position with benefits.

HEAD START-PRE-SCHOOL ASSISTANT TEACHER - Jackson County-2 Positions AvailableAssociate Degree in Early Childhood Education is required for this position, must be able to assume the responsibilities of classroom when the teacher is absent, work well with parents and community leaders, and have good judgment/problem solving skills. Basic computer skills are required. Two years classroom experience preferred.

This is a 10 month position with benefits.

Applications for these positions will be taken at Mountain Projects, 2251 Old Balsam Rd, Waynesville, NC or 25 Schulman St, Sylva, NC or you may apply online at line at: www.mountainprojects.org Pre-Employment drug testing is required. EOE/AA. THE NAVY IS HIRING Top-notch training, medical/dental, 30 days vacation/yr, $ for school. HS grads ages 17-34. Call Mon-Fri 800.662.7419 WANT A CAREER Operating Heavy Equipment? Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators.

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LAWN & GARDEN HEMLOCK HEALERS, INC. Dedicated to Saving Our Hemlocks. Owner/Operator Frank Varvoutis, NC Pesticide Applicatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s License #22864. 48 Spruce St. Maggie Valley, NC 828.734.7819 828.926.7883, Email: hemlockhealers@yahoo.com

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HAYWOOD BEDDING, INC. The best bedding at the best price!

533 Hazelwood Ave. Waynesville 828.456.4240

FINANCIAL BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

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Phone# 1.828.586.3346 TDD# 1.800.725.2962 Equal Housing Opportunity

smokymountainnews.com

NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS SWEETIE A PRETTY BOY WITH LONG BLACK HAIR AND OBVIOUSLY VERY SWEET! FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE, ALL ADULT BLACK CATS ARE HALF PRICE, SO YOU CAN ADOPT SWEETIE FOR JUST $25!!!

9L O O D J H V R I 3 O R W W & UH H N

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June 18-24, 2014

FAYETTEVILLE TECHNICAL Community College is now accepting applications for the following position: Programmer/Analyst. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.com Human Resources Office. Phone: 910.678.8378 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu. CRC Preferred Employer. An Equal Opportunity Employer.

HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS HOSPITAL Positions now available: Med/Surg and ER Registered Nurses, Clinical Informatics Specialist, Clinical Coordinator, Certified Nursing Assistnat, and Unit Clerk.

Benefits available the first of the month following 60 days of full-time employment. PreEmployment screening required.

Call Human Resources.

828.526.1376, or apply online at: www.highlandscashiershospital. org

EMPLOYMENT

WNC MarketPlace

AIRLINE JOBS BEGIN HERE Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Housing/ financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance.

Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance. 877.300.9494.

EMPLOYMENT

245-04

EMPLOYMENT AVERITT EXPRESS New Pay Increase For Regional Drivers! 40 to 46 CPM + Fuel Bonus! Also, Post-Training Pay Increase for Students! (Depending on Domicile) Get Home EVERY Week + Excellent Benefits. CDL-A req. 888.362.8608 Apply @ AverittCareers.com Equal Opportunity Employer - Females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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find us at: facebook.com/smnews

43

WNC MarketPlace

FINANCIAL

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT

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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. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

PETS HAYWOOD SPAY/NEUTER 828.452.1329

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Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 12 Noon - 6 pm 182 Richland Street, Waynesville

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 134.6± ACRES, 3-acre Fishing Pond, Beautiful Views! 2,200' Fronting Beaver Island Creek, Development Potential.

ABSOLUTE AUCTION: Sat, June 28.

Terms online: countsauction.com 800.780.2991 NCAF#7314, NCLB#181898 NC MOUNTAIN FINAL CLOSEOUT Save over 60% on these properties with waterfront, stunning views, EZ access, wooded, level building site and more 2.57acs 15,900 or 1.84acs 23,900. 1.866.738.5522 Hurry Won't Last! brkr.

BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

HOMES FOR SALE BRUCE MCGOVERN A Full Service Realtor shamrock13@charter.net McGovern Property Management For more information call 828.283.2112.

MOUNTAIN HOME - F.S.B.O. Located in Sylva, NC. 3/BR 2/BA, Heat pump, Gas Fireplace, Oversized Double Garage & Finished Outbuilding. For more information please call 828.586.8242 or 561.386.7672

LOTS FOR SALE 2 TRACTS AVAILABLE IN CLYDE #1 - 2.819 Acres, Has Great Building Lot, City Water, Has 2 1/2 Story Building. Property Near HCC. $62,750. #2 - Available in the Fall. Has 3 Acres and House. For more information please call 828.627.2342.

COMM. PROP. FOR SALE

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT

APARTMENT COMPLEX FOR SALE 14 - 2/BR Units. Excellent Rental History. Sylva Area. Call Broker, Robert A. Kent, NC Broker Lic. #274102, The R.A. Kent Co., LLC 828.550.1455

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT 1 Month Free with 12 Month Rental. Maggie Valley, Hwy. 19, 1106 Soco Rd. For more information call Torry

828.734.6500, 828.734.6700 maggievalleyselfstorage.com GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE Conveniently located off 19/23

by Thad Woods Auction. Available for lease now: 10’x10’ units for $55, 20’x20’ units for $160.

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BULLFROG STORAGE Convenient Location 19/23 Between Clyde and Canton

5 x 10 = $35 10 x 10 = $40 10 x 20 = $85 • NO CONTRACTS • Call Brian

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245-49

Great Smokies Storage June 18-24, 2014

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Conveniently located off 19/23 by Thad Woods Auction

44

Puzzles can be found on page 46.

These are only the answers.

245-54

VACATION RENTALS

HEALTH & FITNESS HEALING ENERGY TREATMENTS Reiki, Restorative Yoga. Rose at 828.550.2051. Quantum Touch, Tapping, Pilates. Kim at 828.734.0305.

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Mieko Thomson

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Beverly Hanks & Associates — beverly-hanks.com

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245-09

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PERSONAL

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ERA Sunburst Realty — sunburstrealty.com Haywood Properties — haywoodproperties.com • Steve Cox — info@haywoodproperties.com

Keller Williams Realty kellerwilliamswaynesville.com • Ron Kwiatkowski — ronk.kwrealty.com

Your Local Big Green Egg Dealer

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ON DELLWOOD RD. (HWY. 19) AT 20 SWANGER LANE WAYNESVILLE/MAGGIE VALLEY 828.926.8778

Preferred Properties • George Escaravage — gke333@gmail.com

Prudential Lifestyle Realty — vistasofwestfield.com

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Residential and Commercial Long-Term Rentals

NOTICES BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

SAPA

• • • • • • •

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Ellen’s clients said it best!

Realty World Heritage Realty realtyworldheritage.com • Carolyn Lauter realtyworldheritage.com/realestate/viewagent/7766/

Wa y n e s v i l l e O ff i c e 2 0 1 2 R a v i n g F a n Aw a rd

• Thomas & Christine Mallette realtyworldheritage.com/realestate/viewagent/7767/

RE/MAX — Mountain Realty

esither@beverly-hanks.com

Ellen

828.734.8305

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Commitment, consistency, results.

• • • • • • • • •

remax-waynesvillenc.com | remax-maggievalleync.com Brian K. Noland — brianknoland.com Connie Dennis — remax-maggievalleync.com Mark Stevens — remax-waynesvillenc.com Mieko Thomson — ncsmokies.com The Morris Team — maggievalleyproperty.com The Real Team — the-real-team.com Ron Breese — ronbreese.com Dan Womack — womackdan@aol.com Catherine Proben — cp@catherineproben.com

smokymountainnews.com

PELVIC/TRANSVAGINAL MESH? Did you undergo transvaginal placement of mesh for pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence between 2005 and the present? If the mesh caused complications, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Charles H. Johnson Law and speak with female staff members. 1.800.535.5727.

MOUNTAIN REALTY

June 18-24, 2014

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WNC MarketPlace

NORTH CAROLINA Beat The Heat & Head to the Mountains! Book your vacation now.

Pets welcome! Weekly & Monthly rentals. Best rates. Foscoe Rentals 1.800.723.7341 www.foscoerentals.com. SAPA

FOR SALE

The Seller’s Agency — listwithphil.com • Phil Ferguson — philferguson@bellsouth.net

Carolyn Lauter Broker/ABR

245-11

1986 SOCO ROAD, HWY 19 • MAGGIE VALLEY, NC 28751

828.734.4822 Cell • www.carolynlauter.com carolyn.lauter@realtyworldheritage.com

245-63

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE 828.452.4251 | ads@smokymountainnews.com 45

www.smokymountainnews.com

June 18-24, 2014

WNC MarketPlace

Super

46

CROSSWORD

WHAT YOU COULD’VE HAD

73 Spelling of “Beverly Hills 90210” ACROSS 74 Brest “Bye!” 1 Practical intelligence 76 Offer a price for at 5 Drains the energy from auction 9 Soap-filled scrubber 77 Landed, as a fish 15 - Mahal 79 Apt name for a cook?

18 Cave effect 80 Fiscal gain 19 Sterile beast 82 Mudbath site 20 Locate on a radio dial 84 London brew 21 Two-color whale 85 Heinz product 22 Certain kind of 88 “It’s not over - it’s sucrose over!”

24 Fixed part of a motor 90 Pet doc 25 Horse food 91 Leave weaponless 26 Demeaned 94 - use (pointless) 27 Eatery check 98 “Attack, Spot!”

29 It’s often served in a 101 Dish of peppery bread bowl greens 31 Poker payoff 107 Seize forcibly 32 Part of CIA: Abbr.

108 Permit 34 Mimieux of movies 109 Adverse to, in the 36 Big name in pain relief sticks 37 Starchy, seasoned 110 Enjoyed food side 111 It often has cream 40 Ralph with “Raiders” cheese icing 41 Degree 113 Lose tension 42 Heaved sounds 115 “This Boy’s Life” 43 Long Island’s ocean: author Wolff Abbr.

117 Be the owner of 44 Suitable 118 5K entrants 47 Bed on many a plate 120 Maker of V8 juice, 55 “It must be him, whose eight original shall die” ingredients are the theme 58 Bizet opera of this puzzle 61 Airing at midnight, say 122 Got an A+ on 62 “- believer!”

123 Baltimore pro 63 “Jaws” writer Peter 124 “A Bushel - Peck” 65 Edvard who wrote 125 Princess of “Star “Peer Gynt” Wars” 66 Dr. Watson player 126 Longtime draft org.

Bruce 127 Two fivers 68 Burden 128 “But - art?”

69 Bloody Mary garnish 129 Yemeni city

DOWN 1 Online programs 2 Arctic vehicle with a sail 3 British play venue 4 Barflies 5 Smear 6 Eighth mo.

7 Duck-billed swimmers 8 Shot liquids 9 Roads: Abbr.

10 Beginning 11 Suddenly focus 12 Daintily small 13 Pays (for) 14 Animated “Explorer” 15 Exchanged 16 Not dormant 17 Old March birthstone 21 “TrÄs chic!”

23 Sea lion, e.g.

28 When that time arrives 30 Hiker’s flask 33 Pitcher Young and others 35 Huge 38 Ray blockage no.

39 Eye up 43 Key near Ctrl 45 I, to Wilhelm 46 Barber’s powder 48 Rocky hills 49 Condo part 50 “Ramona the Pest” author Beverly 51 “Bald” fliers 52 Actor Abe 53 Star TV chef 54 Like IV solutions 55 Province-like subdivision of Russia 56 Entertain at story time 57 Silvery-white element 59 Adidas rival

60 Bill Clinton memoir 64 So-so mark 65 Ob- - (doc who delivers) 67 Suffix with Gotham 70 Clean up copy 71 Campus mil. org.

72 Held on to 75 Like bouncy, fast music 78 Chou En- 81 Turn sour 82 Blockheads 83 On - with (much like) 86 Claimed 87 Throw forcefully 89 Mauna 92 1980s first family 93 Flavor enhancer, for short 95 Thrashed (about) 96 Wood of film 97 Certain Ukraine resident 98 Like 99 Asimov and Mizrahi 100 Bends 101 Group’s declaration of concern 102 Alternative to 36Across 103 Tackle 104 Singer Ray of the big band era 105 Refrain from taking further action 106 Haughty type 112 Horse’s gait 114 Trendy juice berry 116 Lugosi or Bartùk 119 Sun. lecture 121 Nero’s 1,501

answers on page 44

ENTERTAINMENT SCOTTISH TARTANS MUSEUM 86 East Main St., Franklin, 828.584.7472. www.scottishtartans.org. Matthew A.C. Newsome, GTS, FSA, SCOT., Curator & General Manager, Ronan B. MacGregor, Business Assistant.

SCHOOLS/ INSTRUCTION EARN YOUR High School Diploma at home in a few short weeks. Work at your own pace. First Coast Academy. Nationally accredited. Call for free brochure. 1.800.658.1180, extension 82. www.fcahighschool.org SAPA NEED COMPUTER & IT TRAINEES! Become a Certified Help Desk Professional! No Experience Needed!

Online training at CTI can get you ready! HS Diploma/GED & Computer needed! careertechnical.edu/nc 1.888.734.6712 NEED MEDICAL BILLLING TRAINEES Obamacare creating a large demand for Medical Office Assistants! No Experienced Needed! Online Training gets you job ready!

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SERVICES DIRECTTV 2 Year Savings Event! Over 140 channels only $29.99 a month.

Only DirecTV gives you 2 YEARS of savings and a FREE Genie upgrade! Call 1.800.594.0473 DDI BUMPERS ETC. Quality on the Spot Repair & Painting. Don Hendershot 858.646.0871 cell 828.452.4569 office.

DISH TV RETAILER. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 1.800.351.0850 SAPA HIGH SPEED INTERNET Starting at $19.99. Free Activation + WiFi Router with Qualifying Phone Service. Call to Order 1.800.380.8654. Frontier today!

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SERVICES 100% FREE LOCAL HDTV CHANNELS • No Cable • No Dish • No Bills 360 Degree Outdoor Remote TV Antenna - With Surge Protection $199 INSTALLED! NBC, ABC, FOX, CBS, PBS UNIVISION, Children’s Channels & More! For more information 828.489.1207 *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL* Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE! Programming starting at $19.99/MO. FREE HD/DVR upgrade for new callers. CALL NOW 1.800.795.1315 SAPA

YARD SALES - LARGE ESTATE SALE Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Antiques, Housewares, Furniture Something for Everyone!!

Located at 10 Commerce St., Waynesville. Rain or Shine!

‘MY BIRTHDAY’ YARD SALE June 20th & 21st, 9a.m. - 5p.m.

20 DEALERS FEATURING Antiques, Costume Jewelry, Furniture, Buttons, Glass Ware, Cast Iron, Fishing, Toys, Tools & Lots of Treasures! Fresh Produce Different Dealers Each Day. ANTIQUE ANTICS, 1497 S. Main St., Waynesville. Space Available 828.452.6225

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 44

Confederates pushed road over Newfound Gap

O

George Ellison

n Jan. 12, 1864, a Confederate battery of artillery and about 650 men under the command of Gen. Robert B. Vance crossed the Smokies at Indian Gap — situated at 5,317 feet between Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap along the high divide between North Carolina and Tennessee — in an attempt to secure provisions, screen the main approaches to North Carolina, and guard the left flank of the Longstreet’s main Columnist Confederate force at Greeneville, Tenn.

The primary military objectives failed miserably, but the dramatic crossing deserves to be remembered.

Most contemporary accounts of the crossing imply that the road was built during the Civil War. It was, however, commissioned by the N.C. General Assembly more than three decades prior to the war. Tom Robbins, a ranger/historian who was stationed at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center for many years, described the event in an issue of the Summit Magazine (Summer 1986): “In 1831, the N.C. General Assembly authorized the formation of the Oconaluftee Turnpike Co. to build a road through the valley to the top

BACK THEN of the Smoky Mountains. Road commissioners were selected from the local community and authorized to sell stock and collect tolls ….

“Construction of the road was difficult and time-consuming. Cliffs and the river had to be avoided, thus lengthening the route. Blasting involved hand-drilling holes in rocks and packing the holes with black powder. Large rocks were sometimes split by burning logs on them, then pouring cold water on the hot rocks.

“The road, completed in 1839, followed an older Indian trail along much of its route.

Initially, the principal traffic on the turnpike was livestock being driven to market. But not long after the road’s completion several men living in the valley formed the Epson Salts Manufacturing Co. in an attempt to tap the mineral resources on the southwestern flank of Mount LeConte in Tennessee.”

Historical accounts differ as to just when William Holland Thomas and his Thomas Legion started improving and using the road during the Civil War as part of his strategy to guard all of the mountain passes into North Carolina.

The one provided by John Preston Arthur in Western North Carolina: A History from 1730-1913, (1914) is perhaps the most accurate.

Arthur states that Thomas obtained “an order from General Kirby Smith in the

spring of 1862 to raise a battalion of sappers and miners ... and put them to making roads, notably a road from Sevier County, Tennessee, to Jackson County, N.C. This road followed the old Indian trail over the Collins Gap (another name for Indian Gap), down the Ocona Lufty river to near what is now Whittier, N.C.” The Indian component of the Thomas Legion, made up of infantry, artillery, and cavalry, was initially comprised of 130 Cherokees recruited in April 1862. That story — involving their use as scouts, the alleged “atrocities” involving scalping by “red savages” made by the North, and the war’s aftermath of poverty and devastating illness on the Qualla Boundary — is fully told in Vernon Crowe’s Storm in the Mountains: Thomas’ Confederate Legion of Cherokee Indians and Mountains (1982) and John Finger’s The Eastern Band of Cherokee, 1819-1900 (1984).

By all accounts the winter of 1864 was unusually cold with considerable snow in the higher elevations. The Confederates and their Cherokee allies worked their way up the Oconaluftee Valley to about where the present Oconaluftee Overlook is Located.

Numerous accounts of what happened from there on have directly intimated that it was Hannibal crossing the Alps in miniature. William R. Trotter in Bushwackers!

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The Civil War in North Carolina (vol. 2, 1988) writes: “The Indian Gap road that Thomas and his engineers had been hacking through the mountains toward Sevierville was passable as far as the crest of the Smokies, but beyond that the route was little more than a mule-path: steep, rocky, and too narrow even for an ox cart.

But what oxen could not do, men could. At the crest, Vance’s men dismantled their artillery. Teams of men carried the wheels, axles, rigging, and ammunition. The gun barrels themselves were harnessed to ropes and rolled, pushed, or dragged down the far side, gun metal screeching on naked rock. The march was characterized not only by Homeric physical exertion, but also by vile weather; Vance and his men did all this into the teeth of savagely cold winds that scoured the mountain tops like a sand-blaster ....”

After reassembling their equipment at the base of the Smokies, Vance’s men had initial success on Jan. 13 with the capture of a Union caravan of about 30 wagons “that were a Godsend to the Confederates.” But shortly thereafter, flushed and cocky by his “little victory,” Vance was smashed at Schultz’s Mill on Cosby Creek by Col. William Palmer’s 15th Pennsylvania Calvary.

Readers can contact George Elison at P.O. Box 1262, Bryson City, N.C., 28713, or at info@georgeellison.com.

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47

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245-79