Smoky Mountain News | August 5, 2020

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August 5-11, 2020 Vol. 22 Iss. 10

Protests march under increased security in Maggie Page 4 Residents refuse to aid in COVID-19 trace testing Page 18

CONTENTS

STAFF

On the Cover: In recognition of the 19th Amendment’s centennial anniversary this month, The Smoky Mountain News is doing a series of stories to highlight issues of equal pay and voting rights in the United States. This week, SMN investigated how well local government agencies are doing in regard to equal pay for women. Stay tuned next week for more 19th Amendment special coverage. (Page 6)

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BLM marchers under increased security in Maggie ................................................4 Tribe engages firm to pursue expanded casino holdings ....................................12 Cherokee to delay budget hearings, adopt baseline budget ..............................13 Mike McKinney’s path to discovering his craft ........................................................14 Haywood schools to adopt new complaint policy ..................................................17 Residents refuse to aid in COVID-19 trace testing ..............................................18 School board works to improve internet access ....................................................19 Health News ......................................................................................................................21

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More than 100 BLM demonstrators (left) marched down Soco Road on Aug. 1. Counterdemonstrators (right) were kept well away from marchers. Garret K. Woodward photos

Smoky Mountain News

August 5-11, 2020

BLM marchers again take to Maggie Valley under increased security

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BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER he Aug. 1 Black Lives Matter demonstration in Maggie Valley may have been bigger and louder than its predecessor on July 18, but it was also something else — safer.

“This is a very important job for us, and [demonstrators] feel it’s important to express their First Amendment rights,” said Haywood County Sheriff Greg Christopher. “We’re here to protect those that want to do that.”

Christopher, along with more than 30 law enforcement officers from several area departments, was in attendance at the demonstration to help avoid a repeat of the last one, where bitter confrontation and ugly incidents at arm’s length from all sides

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marred the march.

“What we’re going to attempt to do today is to keep separation between different groups,” Christopher said prior to the 2 p.m. march. “Of course, that’s always a challenge because we’re talking about human beings and most of them have two legs and they get the opportunity to move around quite a bit.”

Workers from the Town of Maggie Valley blocked off the right-hand lane on westbound Soco Road to allow demonstrators a greater distance from counterdemonstrators; police officers escorted the procession of about 100 BLM supporters as they marched east from town hall, and then turned around and marched back.

Pockets of counterdemonstrators probably tripled the BLM crowd still gathered, but

most were kept on the opposite side of the road. The drastic uptick in security wasn’t solely due to the increased presence of law enforcement.

During a July 30 special called meeting in response to the July 18 demonstration Maggie Valley Mayor Mike Eveland called “chaotic and grossly confrontational,” aldermen unanimously passed an ordinance regulating various aspects of future demonstrations.

“The events of July 18 showed many of us that Maggie Valley is not isolated,” Eveland told a special called meeting of the Maggie Valley Board of Aldermen on July 30. “In fact, these events illustrated how connected the town is to an evolving landscape of ideas and ideals that are being debated throughout our country.”

At that previous demonstration, a small group of about 30 people associated with the Black Lives Matter Movement began their march through Maggie Valley along Soco Road. Twice, they were marched past a large group of counterdemonstrators waving signs and flags and shouting obscenities.

As the march concluded at Town Hall, another large group of counterdemonstrators were already there, waiting for the demonstrators to return. From there, an hours-long

shouting match between the two groups ensued, with groups separated by more than a dozen law enforcement officers from three separate Haywood County departments.

“The town needs to take a proactive role in ensuring that those wanting to picket have the opportunity to do so peacefully and safely, so they have the ability to convey that message – whatever that happens to be,” Eveland said. “I have heard from some that think the proposed ordinance goes too far in limiting free speech while others I have talked to believe the proposed ordinance does not go far enough in addressing safety concerns.”

For the 18 or so people who showed up to the special meeting — six of whom spoke — the concerns voiced were overwhelmingly slanted toward the latter.

One of them, a man who gave his name as Steven Rich, said his Facebook group came up with a list of enhancements to the proposed ordinance, all of which were unconstitutional and demonstrated an appalling lack of understanding of what, exactly, the First Amendment is and what it does.

Rich said that there should be a limit on how many times the group should be allowed to demonstrate in the

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Police officers escorted BLM demonstrators (above) to ensure safety on all sides. BLM demonstrators observe 8 minutes and 48 seconds of silence (below) at the conclusion of the s demonstration. Garret K. Woodward photos n

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propositions.

To that end, people wishing to demonstrate must now notify police at least 72 hours in advance. Picketing may be conducted on various tracts of town property, including sidewalks, and poles or staffs upon which are mounted signs, flags or banners must be made of “corrugated material, plastic or wood,” may not exceed 36 inches in length and must be blunted at each end.

Kitty Curran, a local business owner who took a prominent role in the July 18 BLM demonstration, spoke in support of the ordinance while lauding Maggie Valley Police for keeping what could have been a very violent situation in check.

“They need tools to keep the peace, and this is a tool to help them keep the peace,” Curran told aldermen.

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August 5-11, 2020

town, and that only residents should be e allowed to organize a demonstration. He also e called for onerous fees that would have a chill- ing effect on protected speech, according to t attorney Brian Gulden.

Gulden, who said the ordinance was t drafted in consultation with Town Attorney n Craig Justus and the UNC School of e Government, put on a clinic in constitutional e law for Rich, as well as others who proposed y other authoritarian measures like banning demonstrations on busy tourism weekends, forcing demonstrators to remain in one e place, or implementing a blanket ban on - demonstrations within the town.

“Government may not prohibit the s expression of an idea simply because that e government does not like that idea,” Gulden - said, shooting down the legality of each of the k t

@InglesDietitian Leah McGrath - Dietitian 800.334.4936 Ingles Markets… caring about your health

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Local governments show room for improvement in gender pay equality

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER rom the very birth of this nation, the words “All men are created equal” never really meant all men, and it certainly didn’t mean women.

That’s perhaps why all corners of this nation have seen seemingly endless protest since late spring; some compare the recent activity on behalf of Black Lives Matter to the protests of the Civil Rights Era in that they’re demanding justice and equality for segments of the population that have experienced discrimination enshrined in law, but they’re also comparable to another era of American history, when another segment of the population marched against discrimination enshrined in law.

They were the suffragettes — women who for more than 130 years weren’t allowed to vote in U.S. elections.

But just as racial discrimination did not end with the Civil Rights Era, gender discrimination did not end 100 years ago when Tennessee became the 36th state to ratify the 19th Amendment to the Constitution on Aug. 18, 1920.

Gender discrimination in the workplace still hasn’t been eliminated, but much progress has been made. For a long time, that discrimination manifested itself by excluding women from the workplace and from certain professions. Today, that’s far less common, but a great disparity still exists.

As The Smoky Mountain News delved into public records of people employed in municipal and county government, a few things became abundantly clear. Although employed at rates nearly equal to men, top decisionmakers are rarely women. And even when they are, many still don’t earn what men in similar positions earn.

During the investigation, SMN compiled a list of more than 1,800 full-time salaried employees from 11 local governments in our four-county focus area. The highest-earning positions were overwhelmingly held by men

Smoky Mountain News

August 5-11, 2020

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— just six of the top 20 salaries go to women, even though the highest earners in six of 11 local governments are women.

Women made up 47.4 percent of all employees, despite comprising 50.8 percent of the U.S. population, but the numbers only get worse from there.

Of the top 10 percent of all salaries (182 people), 87 were earned by women (47.8 percent) and 95 were earned by men (52.2 percent). Of the top 25 percent of all salaries

Waynesville, where only 19 and 18 percent, respectively, of full-time salaried municipal employees are women.

To be sure, there are several factors at play in these statistics. Some of the highest earners are people who have decades of experience, dating back to a time when women weren’t included in local government administration the way they are today.

Thus, it’s not surprising that there are few women with the long careers in government

(454 people), 214 were earned by women (43.9 percent) and 240 were earned by men (56.1 percent).

In addition to getting the short end of the stick on high-paying jobs, women also bear the brunt of the work associated with low-paying jobs. Of the bottom 10 percent of all salaries (182 people), 101 were earned by women (55.5 percent) and 81 (44.5 percent) were earned by men. Of the bottom 25 percent of all salaries (454 people), 250 were earned by women (55.1 percent) and 204 were earned by men (44.9 percent).

Some local governments, whether city or county, have done a fair job of working toward greater workplace equality.

Haywood, Jackson and Swain counties all have a substantial number of female employees, and the Town of Sylva has a long tradition of women in leadership roles — at one point boasting a female mayor, town manager and chief of police.

Others still have a way to go, like the Haywood County towns of Canton and

that demand higher salaries.

The other factor is in policing — traditionally a male-dominated profession. Law enforcement makes up a substantial portion of any local government’s payroll, skewing employment numbers. However, those positions are often among the lowest-paying in any municipality, which actually drags down average salaries amongst men.

Even with all that being said, the men in our investigation still earn about 4.8 percent more than women; with an average salary across all jobs of $40,224, women tend to earn at least 3.2 percent less than average, while men take home about 1.6 percent more than average.

It’s hard to make apples-to-apples comparisons of job titles, duties and salaries in many cases, but it’s also hard to overlook the fact that gender equality in the workplace — at least in the public sector — has a long way to go to reach the day when, perhaps, our nation might be able to look itself in the mirror and say, “All people are created equal.”

Waynesville takes steps to address gender balance, pay

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER s the largest North Carolina town west of Asheville, Waynesville often sets the bar for how other municipal governments handle issues of governance.

Although it’s among the worst in terms of gender balance in the workplace, Waynesville’s leaders are now attempting to set an example of how to deal with it.

“What I noticed is that we do have some women in decision-making positions that are grossly underpaid for what they’re doing,” said Alderman Anthony Sutton.

Sutton spoke up at a recent budget meeting over issues of pay disparity, including that of Assistant Town Manager Amie Owens, who makes only about $71,000 despite accumulating oversight of several other departments, including information technology.

Sutton’s comments led to the town funding a $17,000 study to examine who gets paid what.

“What we’re doing is not just a pay study, it’s a job study,” he said. “You may have a man and a woman with the same job title, but they’re not doing the same things.”

Men are also significantly overrepresented on the town’s staff roster; out of 173 fulltime salaried employees, only 31 are women.

Of the 30 highest salaries paid by the town, only four go to women.

“We’re making strides to hire more women, and I think part of the study will show us what we need to do to achieve that,” said Sutton. “We need a baseline of where we are, and we know where we should be.

We just need to make an action plan to get there.”

The recent departure of Finance Director Ben Turnmire, for example, is a great place to start, according to Sutton.

“We currently have several good candidates, including women,” Sutton said.

One issue that will be difficult to overcome — and indeed stands in the way of a more equal balance between the number of male and female employees — is law enforcement.

Like many local governments, law enforcement personnel make up a substantial portion of the workforce, and the overwhelming majority of officers are men.

At the Haywood County Sheriff ’s Office there are 102 full-time salaried officers, but only 18 are women.

“I would love to have more women working in the sheriff ’s office as a deputy sheriff or detention officer,” said Haywood County Sheriff Greg Christopher. “Women are just as smart as males — if not smarter — so it’s definitely not that. We recruit females and minorities as much as we can. I’m not sure how we make law enforcement a more attractive profession for females. I wish I had an answer for that.”

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Female leadership key in Jackson government

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BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ylva is a town that’s run by women, both on the board of commissioners and among staff positions in town hall.

Of the six-member town board, three members — including the mayor — are female, as are the people filling the two highest-paid positions in town government, which employs 23 full-time workers and three part-time workers. Sylva Town Manager Paige Dowling earns the highest salary, having led the town since her hire in April 2012, and the secondhighest salary goes to Finance Director Lynn Bryant, who has worked for the town since September 1993, making her Sylva’s longest-serving employee. Of the seven town employ-

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per year of experience for female employees, with an overall average of $4,316.44 per year of experience.

This metric makes for an interesting comparison, but it doesn’t allow for an ironclad verdict. Years with the county is not necessarily equivalent to years of experience.

It wasn’t until 2018 that the county was able to give new employees compensation for years of experience earned outside county employment. Human Resources Director Kathleen Breedlove said that fact impacted her directly when she took her first position with the county in May 2016, before the new policy was adopted. Despite her 28.5 years of service with the state prior to joining the county, she started work at the bottom of the pay scale. Breedlove was promoted to department head in October 2018.

This policy had obvious shortcomings for

ees who make more than $50,000 per year, four are female.

It would not be fair to say that Sylva does not have a pay disparity, however. It does — and it favors females.

The average salary among fulltime male employees is $42,275.01, while the average among female employees is a whopping $58,972.86, nearly 40 percent higher than the average for men.

However, that disparity is not due to female hires receiving preferential treatment, but rather due to the particular positions those employees occupy. In Sylva, women hold many of the top jobs in town hall, but they occupy far fewer jobs than men overall, meaning that the average salary for females is more easily swayed by those top earners — the town employs 19 men fulltime but only seven women. Of the 19 men, five are police officers, two are sergeants and four are maintenance technicians, all of which tend to be lowerpaid positions compared to others on the payroll. There is only one female sergeant and one female police officer, and no female maintenance technicians.

That’s not to say that men aren’t represented in town leadership, however. The town has a male police chief and a

male public works director.

The town adheres to a salary schedule when setting pay for new hires, said Town Clerk Amanda Murajda. For each pay grade, the schedule lists minimum, midpoint and maximum salaries, as well as probationary hiring rates. All positions that appear on the town payroll are assigned a grade, with the exception of town manager. That position is hired directly by the town board, which negotiates and approves the employment contract.

The hiring rate represents the lowest possible salary a person could be offered for the job in question during a probationary period that lasts 12 months for law enforcement and six months for other employees. When the probationary period ends, employees must begin earning at least the minimum salary.

But not all employees start out at the bottom. At the point of hire, prospective employees can negotiate a higher salary based on past work experience or education level.

There is no exact policy as to what that salary bump might look like, but it typically averages out to about 1 percent over the hiring rate per year of direct experience, said Murajda.

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Smoky Mountain News

Women rule the roost in Sylva

EQUAL PAY

August 5-11, 2020

Positions held by men include county manager, Green Energy Project manager, register of deeds, sheriff, Soil and Water Conservation District manager and the directors of the department on aging, emergency management, planning, parks and recreation, permitting and code enforcement, public works and economic development.

Average salaries in Jackson County are similar when comparing male and female employees, with the average male employee earning $42,932.88 and the average female employee earning $42,366 — about 100.73 percent and 99.40 percent of the overall average of $4,623,25, respectively.

While men earn slightly more on average, they also average more years of experience.

Male employees had an average 10.16 years with the county while female employees averaged 9.64 years, with an overall overage of 9.87 years. This worked out to an average $4,224.73 per year of experience for male employees and a slightly higher $4,396.73

managers looking to attract quality candidates, and on June 18, 2018, county commissioners approved a revised policy that allows new hires to receive credit on the salary schedule for both direct and indirect experience. The policy includes a formula for calculating both types of experience and language tasking the directors of human resources and finance with approving starting salaries above the minimum, with final approval from the county manager. County commissioners must approve any salaries that do not meet the guidelines. They also set pay for department heads and therefore have more leeway to negotiate a competitive salary for these leadership positions.

Breedlove said it’s unsurprising that an analysis of Jackson County’s payroll reveals little disparity between compensation of male and female employees, because the only things the county can consider when setting salaries are the position the person will be taking and the experience they will bring to it.

Another new policy, stemming from a 2019 executive order from Gov. Roy Cooper, also contributes to equality in hiring and setting salaries, she said. The order prohibits state agencies from requesting salary history from job applicants, so Jackson County can no longer ask applicants how much they made at previous jobs.

The order aimed to address pay disparity in light of research showing that women get paid less than men in their very first jobs, even when controlling for occupation, college major, hours worked, location and demographics, said a fact sheet from the governor’s office. However, said Breedlove, that change was “really irrelevant to any of our positions, because we have starting pays.”

When it comes to keeping pay fair, said Breedlove, the most important thing is to have a good plan in place.

“Once you deviate from a plan, then it causes complication later on,” she said.

“Adhering to the plan is usually the best course of action for consistency.”

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BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER hile men hold the highest-paying and highest number of jobs in most Western North Carolina governments, Jackson County is a noticeable exception to that general rule.

In that county of 44,000 people, 388 employees are on the county payroll as fulltime workers, and 54.6 percent of them are female. That more than flips the average across the 11 local governments whose payrolls The Smoky Mountain News recently analyzed, finding that 47.4 percent of the governments’ 1,817 full-time employees were female.

Women aren’t just present on Jackson County’s payroll. They’re leading departments and pulling in some of the county’s highest salaries. Jackson County’s top earner, Director of Finance Darlene Fox, is also the second-highest earner out of all 11 governments analyzed, a fact that is perhaps largely due to her impressive record of service. Fox has worked with Jackson County for 45.8 years.

Fox is far from being the sole female among Jackson County’s department heads and top earners, though women are more heavily represented among the county’s bottom earners than among its top earners. Of the county’s 10 highest-paid employees, an even 50 percent are women; of the top 25, 12 are female — 48 percent of the group, less than the 54.6 percent of women on the payroll overall. Of the bottom 10 earners, five are female; in the bottom 25, there are 15 women — 60 percent of the group compared to the 54.6 percent on the payroll overall.

Looking at 22 director and department head positions, it’s easy to see that women are an important part of county leadership. Of those 22 positions, 11 are filled by women.

These include the county attorney, tax administrator, tax collector and directors of social services, finance, GIS, transit, elections, health, human resources and IT.

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Status of the pay gap

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER he Equal Pay Act, which mandates equal pay for equal work and forbids employers from paying men and women different wages or different benefits for doing jobs that require the same skills and responsibilities, was signed into law in 1963.

This was one of the first laws in American history intended to reduce gender discrimination in the workplace. When it was signed into law, President John F. Kennedy acknowledged “much remains to be done to achieve full equality of economic opportunity for women.”

Fifty-seven years later women earn, on average, 82 cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts, according to the latest U.S. Census data from 2018.

Within that statistic lies a wide range of compensation. On average, Black women earn 62 cents to the dollar compared to white men, Hispanic/Latinx women earn 54 cents, Asian women 90 cents, and Native Americans 57 cents.

Dr. Dana Patterson, director of the Department of Intercultural Affairs at Western North Carolina University, said she believes there are a lot of preconceived notions about what the head of a household looks like, and that this contributes to the pay gap.

“That goes into our whole gender identity and hegemonic masculinity beliefs about what men should have, and what women should be doing and the role they should play in a family. But if we look at recent research and we look at especially Black and Latino families, people will find that women

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August 5-11, 2020

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are more and more heading households. So that expectation that women are not in the role of heading households is kind of an assumption that we’re socialized to believe” she said.

Wage gap calculations by the Census Bureau show the ratio of earnings for men and women across all industries, not specific, identical work. This is important to help capture the multitude of factors driving the

EQUAL PAY gender wage gap. Some of these factors include differences in industries, differences in years worked, difference in education levels and differences in hours worked, but also blatant discrimination.

“It is important to note that many of these factors can be directly and indirectly influenced by discrimination based on gender and race or ethnicity,” said Robin Bleiweis at the Center for American Progress. “For example, societal and structural sexism often influences the jobs that women work in, and those same forces mean that women most often take on the majority of the caregiving, housework and other unpaid responsibilities that men do not.”

Patterson says she believes the gap still persists, not because people believe women should be paid less than men, but because in a fast-paced world, people are constantly distracted from the issue.

“We’re going to have to address our own gender bias, and what we think about men and women. It even comes down to what we’re seeing right now with the whole Black Lives Matter Movement. To me, it really bears a striking similarity in terms of understanding the phenomenon. It’s like, all work matters, but you have to say right now women’s work matters. You have to elevate that voice and elevate that platform because it’s not being addressed, and because it has-

n’t reached a state where real sustainable change is being made in that degree.”

The United Nations Foundation projects that the Coronavirus Pandemic and the ensuing economic fallout will only exacerbate the gender pay gap. According to a UN report, women have seen the majority of employment loss during the pandemic due to their holding the majority of insecure, informal and lower paying jobs.

“I think that a lot of the government policies that have been put in place are looking

at more of an equality framework and not an equity framework,” said Patterson. “There were a lot of people who were ‘not haves’ even before a lot of us became ‘not haves’.

So, we still have more than the people who were ‘not haves’ before this pandemic happened and before this economic crisis happened. So, if things were to be equitable, then people who had less to begin with would get more support right now. But instead there’s this blanket policy and everyone’s going to get the same thing.”

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BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ryson City is a small town with a lot of big responsibilities and limited financial resources. While it is a major tourism hub that supports second-home owners and thousands of visitors during the season, the full-time population is only an estimated 1,500.

The town government employs 30 people — 25 males and five females. A majority of the office staff at town hall are female and the other town positions — police officers, firefighters, maintenance, sanitation — are filled by men. However, on average, the five female employees are making more than the 25 men.

The average salary for women is $39,336 while the average pay for men is $28,786.

The town is run by a woman — Regina Mathis — who has served as the town manager since March 2018. Before working for the town, she was a long time Swain County educator. With her salary set at $75,000, it skews the average a bit for female employees.

The tax collector and town clerk for Bryson City are also female and make $35,000 and $38,000 a year, respectively. Both women have worked for the town for about 15 years.

For comparison, the male public works director has worked for the town since 1993 and makes about $50,000 a year.

The police chief, who was recently hired and transferred over from the Swain County Sheriff ’s Office, makes about $57,000 a year.

The assistant chief has worked for the department since 1998 and makes $45,000 a year. Besides one patrol officer, all the officers have been hired in the last three years.

In small towns like Bryson City, adequate pay is an issue across the board, not just for women and other minorities. With such a low tax base, the town’s payscale just hasn’t been able to keep pace with the private sector and hasn’t been able to compete well with the public sector either. The town becomes a “training ground” for people until they can gain experience and move on to a larger organization.

When looking at the town’s elected leaders, the Bryson City Board of Aldermen comprises five members — three males (including the mayor) and two females — Aldermen Heidi Ramsey-Woodard and Janine Crisp.

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BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR wain County might still be led by men, but women are key contributors in the day-to-day operations of the county government.

County Manager Kevin King is the highest paid official on the payroll at $98,739 a year, but he’s backed up by plenty of female department heads, including County Clerk Cindi Woodard, County Finance Director Dean Kowal, Tax Administrator Peggy Hyde, Health Director Alison Cochran, Board of Elections Director Joan Weeks (who is retiring and being replaced with deputy director Judy Aumen), Director of Social Services (interim) Bree Clawson and Register of Deeds Diana Williamson Kirkland.

Out of Swain County’s 205 employees, 114 are female and 91 are male, but on average the men are still earning more than the women. Swain County male employees are making an average of $35,229 a year while females are making $33,409 on average.

With so many women occupying high-level positions within the county, that average seems low.

Swain County’s Jail Administrator, a critical and stressful position, is a female, though she hasn’t been working there long. She was hired with the county part-time in December 2016 and was hired as the full-time administrator of the jail in March 2017. Her current salary is $37,219. In her role, she oversees about 18 employees in a facility that can hold up to 109 inmates, including some federal inmates.

In comparison, the elected Sheriff Curtis Cochran makes $81,900 a year and the sheriff ’s female administrative assistant makes $32,652

a year. The sheriff ’s chief deputy has been with the department since 2004 and currently makes $49,200 a year. More than the issue of gender pay in Swain County government is the overall issue of fair pay across the board.

When looking at the hiring dates and salaries for employees, especially at the jail and the sheriff ’s department, low wages in Swain have caused significant turnover. A majority of the detention center officers — both male and female — have been hired in the last year or two at a starting salary of $26,600. Assuming that is the base rate, that means the jail is being operated by officers with little to no prior experience in law enforcement.

A female detention sergeant hired in 2019 currently makes $28,900 a year. The Swain County Sheriff ’s Department hired a new female road deputy in June 2020 at an annual salary of $32,652. Sheriff Cochran has asked the board of commissioners for the last several years to increase wages for his employees to not only boost morale but to help him recruit and retain good officers.

The county also put together an internal personnel committee to review the county’s pay plan and make recommendations to the commissioners, but implementing the recommendations has been a slow-moving process.

Last year’s fiscal budget only included a onetime $500 bonus for employees at Christmas and this year the board has only passed an interim budget to get them through October so they can re-evaluate projected revenue loss from the impact of COVID-19.

One thing that stuck out in the data is that female employees in Swain government are more evenly distributed throughout different departments, which wasn’t found in other organizations. Women are working in the jail, on road patrol, as EMS workers, environmental health, custodians, GIS mapping, accounting, soil and water and social services.

On the other hand, the elected board of commissioners is still made up of only men.

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Pay equality a priority in Macon

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ay for Macon County employees is constantly on the mind of Macon County Manager Derek Roland, and every year putting together the county budget is a balancing act between protecting taxpayer dollars and providing adequate pay for the county’s more than 300 employees.

In order to recruit and retain high performing employees, Roland said, Macon County is constantly evaluating salaries and benefit offerings to ensure the county is remaining competitive with similarly sized/positioned local government organizations across the state.

“The Macon County employees are the most valuable asset this organization has with salary and benefit costs totaling approximately $26.5 million or 51 percent of the $52.3 million general fund operating budget,” he said. “It is because of these individuals, their tremendous work ethic, dedication to public service, and above all, their love for Macon County, that results in Maconians enjoying the highest level of public service at the third lowest price tag (ad-valorem tax rate) in the State.”

Macon County is an equal opportunity employer, and Roland said he hasn’t experienced any pay inequality when it comes to gender. The county has plenty of examples of women holding high office within the organization. The top earner on the county payroll is a female dentist making over $140,000 a year and the female finance director makes $117,000 after serving in that position since 2011.

The county’s elections director, health director, tax administrator, senior service director, transit director, veteran services director and the assistant to the county manager are all females. Out of the county’s 376 employees, 208 are male and 168 are female. The average pay for men is $39,61 and the average pay for females is $39,107.

However, the county has been working in recent years to iron out other inequali-

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ties in the county’s pay plan. In 2013, a classification and compensation study was done to evaluate job descriptions and adjust the pay scale after it was found that the county’s salary ranges were about 21 percent lower than its peers. Once implemented, all employees falling below the newly established minimum pay levels were brought up to the new minimum and anyone at or above the new levels received a 2 percent salary increase.

Making those changes mostly helped those employees who had worked there one to five years, but it still didn’t make a big difference for those with longevity with the county.

Roland said that immediately created compression within the pay scale — a situation that occurs when there is only a small difference in pay between employees regardless of their skills or experience.

The county did an in-house county pay study in 2017 using regional comparisons and established and applied a formula across the organization for advancing employees within their current pay grade, based upon their years of service with Macon County. Implementing the study cost the county $621,613.

“The County Pay Study, which was implemented in 2017, made great strides in alleviating compression which was creating inequality within the organization.

Following the pay study, we have continued to provide COLA’s and attempted to limit the amount of benefit costs passed down to employees,” Roland said. “Today we have some pay grades that need evaluated, and our pay scale needs some fine tuning in certain areas, but overall Macon County is in great shape with respect to our compensation and benefit package, I’d put ours up against any other local government our size.”

Just like other government agencies, Macon’s 2020-21 budget process has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Roland said the projected impact forced the county to suspend the most recent evaluation of employee pay grades, which was last conducted by Springsted in 2013. The study is being conducted in house. The rising cost of retirement and health insurance benefits has also been a challenge when it comes to spending more money on salaries.

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Franklin’s female employees making more on average

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR he town of Franklin may employ a majority of men, but the women are making more on average than their male coworkers.

The town employs 55 people — 10 females and 45 males — but the average salary for the 10 women is $46,180 compared to the average pay for men, which is $42,180.

However, that disparity can be attributed to which positions these employees hold within the town government.

The top earner in Franklin is Town Manager Summer Woodard, who has served in that position since May 2014. She was first appointed as interim manager after Manager Warren Cabe resigned and then took the permanent position in July 2014. Even before that, the Franklin native — who earned her master’s degree in public administration at Western Carolina University — worked as an assistant under three town managers and interned for the town while she was a student.

At the time, Woodard was offered the same contract Cabe had making $85,000 a year. She currently makes just over $90,000 a year. Mayor Bob Scott supported the hire at the time and to this day, still says it’s one of the best personnel decisions the town board has made during his tenure.

In addition to Woodard’s leadership, the town’s finance department is also held by a woman and the tax collector is a woman — both of those positions are well-paid positions as they require a higher education and plenty of experience.

For many of the town officials, examining their employees’ pay and positions in this manner was a good exercise showing them how they are doing compared to other town and county governments.

“The figures you sent me are interesting.

Obviously, men outnumber women, I think because most town jobs are traditionally ‘male’ — water and sewer plants, street crews, police and fire,” said Barbara McRae, Franklin’s vice mayor and one of two females serving on the Town Council. “Women hold some important

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jobs, but mostly in admin roles. Here they have clearly excelled, as you point out. Perhaps we should encourage young women to think in terms of less traditional careers. I think we (the Council and town management) are intent on having a workplace in which everyone has an equal chance to succeed and everyone is treated well.”

While it’s true the police department, water and sewer, planning and maintenance are still run by men, it’s worth noting that the last two town clerks — a traditional female role — have been held by men. The last Franklin Town Clerk Chad Simons went on to serve as the town manager for Bryson City and now Murphy, and the current clerk is Travis Tallent. He makes about $62,000 a year.

It’s also worth noting that Franklin’s police department has two female officers on staff — a fulltime sergeant and a fulltime

EQUAL PAY patrol officer. The police department also has a female administrative assistant making $28,000 a year. The female sergeant has worked for the town since 1994 and makes $46,000 a year while a male sergeant on staff since 1993 makes just over $49,000. The female patrol officer has worked for the town since 2002 and makes $40,000 while there is a male patrol officer hired in 1998 who makes nearly $40,000 a year.

According to the town’s pay plan, police officers start out at a minimum of $33,521 and a maximum of $49,482. McRae said the town is currently looking at updating the pay scale for the police department.

Other than reviewing those pay plans regularly, she said the town hasn’t specifically made diversity hiring a focus.

“Other than a commitment to be fair, I don’t know that we have a focus on diversity hiring. I think we probably should. It is challenging, as our minority population is small.

Also, turnover is small, so there aren’t a lot of hiring opportunities. But we should have this as a goal,” she said.

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Cherokee will delay budget hearings, adopt baseline budget

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER n a resolution passed last month, Tribal Council decided that it will not hold budget hearings this year but will instead delay them until January 2021, after the first quarter of the new fiscal year has passed. The decision comes in response to decreased revenues and increased uncertainty caused by the Coronavirus Pandemic.

“This is just delaying for one quarter the budget hearings, and if the projected numbers from the casino go up, then we can start looking at reallocating that into the appropriate programs based on the needs of the programs,” said Vice Chairman David Wolfe, who introduced the resolution together with Chairman Adam Wachacha, during a July 7 Budget Council meeting.

In the budget approved for Fiscal Year 2020, casino revenues accounted for 51.2 percent of the tribe’s overall budget, but those revenues have taken a beating due to the pandemic. The casinos in Murphy and Cherokee were closed completely from March 18 through May 12, on May 13 opening on an invitation-only basis. The facilities have been open to the public since May 28, but with limited capacity and safety precautions in place.

Caesars Entertainment, Harrah’s parent company, warned its properties to brace for pulling in just 30 or 40 percent of what is typical, said Secretary of Finance Cory Blankenship during an April 29 update, but Cherokee’s properties were optimistic that they could achieve about 70 percent of expected levels. In formulating a proposed budget, Principal Chief Richard Sneed aimed between those two figures, basing the spending plan on 50 percent of normal casino projections.

This does not mean that the tribal budget

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for 2021 will be half the size of that adopted in 2020, however. The 2020 budget was based on 80 percent of casino projections — not 100 percent — and casino revenues account for only about half of total revenue.

“Essentially what that does, holding at 50 percent, is it reduces our projected revenue to the tribal government from all sources — so government and per capita — by about $121 million,” Blankenship told Tribal Council during a July 7 Budget Council meeting.

The main goal of the 2021 budget will be to maintain services as well as pay and benefits for all current tribal employees, said Wolfe. The proposed budget will allow all employees to keep their jobs.

While the tribal government did not disclose the size of last year’s adopted budget, the budget for fiscal year 2019 totaled $564.3 million with an operating budget of $179.4 million.

Typically, in February the finance office will send budget workbooks listing known costs to each program. The programs then add in any needs or wants and propose a

budget back to finance. Using that information, a proposed budget is developed and sent to Tribal Council, with hearings scheduled so that the individual programs can argue for any changes they believe to be necessary for their particular budgets.

This year, tribal offices were closed during the time when that cycle would typically take place, and because of the massive uncertainty caused by the pandemic Blankenship’s office took a hard percentage off of each program’s existing budget rather than going through the usual process of consulting about needs and wants and priorities.

“What we envision as part of this process is let’s adopt a budget that gives us a strong starting point, that gives us enough funds in those budgets to keep services functional, and then let’s see where we are with revenue,” said Blankenship.

Come January, he said, he’d like to be able to add $10 to $15 million back into the budget. However, this is new territory for everyone, and nobody knows how casino revenues will fare over the coming year.

“We don’t know right now what our revenue’s going to look like coming from the casino,” said Sneed on July 7. “Right now it looks good, but we don’t now if that’s going to be sustained. We don’t know if we’ll have to shut down again.”

As of July, the casino was seeing a smaller number of visitors than is usual for the summer, but those people were spending a larger amount of money on average, said Sneed.

But there’s no way to know if that trend will continue.

“We have never been this unsure about what our revenues are going to be,” said Big Cove Representative Perry Shell. “We have an idea what our expenditures would be based on the past, but we have no concrete estimate like we have had in the past of what the gaming revenue will bring in. We don’t have that now, and I think this is a smart way to do that, to keep those things that are essential in place.”

Some councilmembers disagreed with that assessment, however.

“I think we need to just start having our budget hearings and see what happens from now till October,” said Wolfetown Representative Bo Crowe. “It might turn completely around from now till then. That’s my thoughts on it. I’m not in favor of this.”

The resolution ultimately passed, however, with a weighted vote of 45-31. In favor were Snowbird Representative Bucky Brown, Yellowhill Representative Tom Wahnetah, Wolfetown Representative Chelsea Saunooke, Shell, Wachacha and Wolfe.

Opposed were Big Cove Representative Richard French, Painttown Representatives Tommye Saunooke and Dike Sneed, and Crowe. Birdtown Representatives Albert Rose and Boyd Owle were absent.

The current fiscal year ends September 30. During the Aug. 4 Budget Council meeting, Tribal Council voted to table the proposed budget, making a September adoption likely. Sneed’s office declined to release a copy of the document to The Smoky Mountain News, stating that the document is classified as a work product that can be accessed only by request from a tribal member.

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To Crowe’ criticism about funding the deal in light of coronavirus-related budget cuts, Sneed replied that “they’re two separate issues,” as the budget relies on incoming revenue to fund salaries and services, while the tribe could easily borrow money for any business acquisitions it saw fit to make.

Compared to other casino businesses, the ratio of debt to revenue at Cherokee’s casinos is extraordinarily low, making the casinos extremely attractive clients for banks looking to make loans.

The Coronavirus Pandemic has hit the tribe’s casinos quite hard, with the proposed budget for 2021 representing a decrease of $121 million from the current year’s budget.

But with state governments in North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia all considering — or, in Virginia’s case, implementing, and in the Catawba Nation’s case, building — commercial gaming, that decrease might not disappear with the pandemic, said Sneed.

“If we don’t make some decision as far as moving into other markets and we miss those opportunities, what we’re experiencing right now with this dramatic drop in revenue will become the new normal, and that’s not fear mongering,” said Sneed.

“That’s just a fact.”

Cherokee’s two casino properties are unusually lucrative even in the gaming world, said Sneed. Much of that success is due to the tribe’ regional gaming monopoly, but that monopoly is likely to disappear.

Innovation Capital would help the tribe find opportunities to purchase existing gaming businesses, or parts of gaming business, allowing the EBCI to increase its bottom line without taking on the expense of building a new casino from scratch.

While Crowe remained skeptical, ultimately voting against the resolution, other councilmembers were more enthusiastic.

Crowe was the sole no vote.

“We’ve got to be the new trailblazers of some new adventure, and hopefully one day our kids and grandkids will sit in these seats as a prosperous tribe, and be able to make some really good decisions that benefit our people,” said Wolfetown Representative Chelsea Saunooke.

August 5-11, 2020

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER s states throughout the Southeast consider allowing or expanding commercial gaming in their jurisdictions, Tribal Council has voted to enter into a contract with investment bank Innovation Capital that will allow the company to serve as the tribe’s exclusive financial advisor as it seeks to diversify its holdings in the gaming industry.

“Over the course of the next five to seven years, there’s the potential for anywhere between $150 to $250 million in lost revenue to the tribe,” Principal Chief Richard Sneed told Tribal Council July 9. “With that in mind, we have here collectively — this body working with the executive committee and Kituwah LLC — we have opportunities for diversification there, but those opportunities do not present the type of revenue that gaming can produce.”

Innovation Capital specializes in the gaming, leisure, restaurant and retail industries and in particular has experience working with Native American gaming enterprises. The company has brokered more than $9 billion in deals, has an excellent track record and comes highly recommended from Harrah’s parent company Caesars Entertainment, said Sneed. Passing the resolution would mean that Innovation would be the tribe’s advisors and agents in any potential commercial gaming deals it enters into.

Contract terms were not included in the resolution itself, and an attached letter outlining those terms was not released to The Smoky Mountain News.

Wolfetown Representative Bo Crowe was not eager to pass the resolution, expressing dismay that Sneed had not put out a request for proposals before selecting the company.

Given the severe budget cuts under discussion for tribal government in the year ahead, he said he opposed contract terms that would pay Innovation Capital $50,000 per month and moved to table the resolution until January, when an RFP could be completed.

“On the issue of waiting until January, I can assure you that the opportunities that are out there right now won’t be there in January,” said Sneed.

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Turning towards woodturning Mike McKinney’s path to discovering his craft

BY ANDREW DUNDAS CONTRIBUTING WRITER owls in various stages of production scattered the workshop around Mike McKinney, piled onto tables and shelves besides a host of different woodworking equipment. At the center of it all sat the lathe, illuminated by studio lights and backed by a wall of hanging tools. Behind the lathe, Mike prepared his next piece for turning, answering questions about his craft with quiet-but-clear passion.

Shavings leapt into the crook of Mike’s arms as he guided his tool into the spinning wood. His face rested in a look of calm concentration, only broken to comment on the material or explain his actions. Moments before, the piece in front of him had been nothing more than a section of a walnut tree, but with each spin it further resembled a bowl, richly dark with sections of crème running through.

Mike lives and crafts in Maggie Valley. He makes natural-edge and utility bowls, as well as a range of other turned products. He retired as City President from the Waynesville branch of United Community Bank in September 2019. He has pursued woodturning since 1993, but has been around crafting far longer.

Born in 1953 into a family with three generations of woodworkers behind him, Mike was raised to be familiar to with the crafts of Western North Carolina. Mike grew up in Spruce Pine, where he helped his father, David McKinney, a furniture maker, and his grandfather Paul McKinney, a carpenter, in the workshop. His great-grandfather Mose McKinney worked with wood, as well.

Mike said his father was “just a mountain man that loved to see people create.” He recalled that his father took him to the Southern Highlands Craft Guild’s annual fair in Asheville and their gallery at Moses Cone Manor in Blowing Rock.

Mike, however, only discovered his passion for woodworking as an adult. He was working for First Union National Bank as a city executive for Murphy, Andrews, Hayesville when his father invited him on a trip to see Lissi Oland, a woodturner in Brasstown. Lissi made “really rustic vessels,” Mike said, and watching her work inspired him to take up her craft.

After their visit to Lissi’s, Mike asked, “Daddy, what would it take to get started?

500 dollars?” His father doubted that it would be that cheap. To Mike’s great fortune, he found somebody in the Iwanna paper selling a lathe and tools cheaply—“maybe 150 dollars,” he said,—and he started turning in 14 1993. It was a modest setup and his wife,

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August 5-11, 2020

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Mike McKinney poses with some of his first bowls in front of his workshop. Mike said he has little formal training but has acquired his skills through demos, watching other artists and attending woodturning meetings. Andrew Dundas photos

Vanessa, asked what he planned to do with the tools. Mike responded, “Maybe I will make some shavings.”

Mike tells people the lathe is “mesmerizing,” like staring into a campfire. He said, “You can have a lot of fun, as I did, just making shavings.” From there you just can’t wait to make something else. Indeed, after a couple of weeks, Mike turned his first bowl.

He began to attend clubs and seminars, really trying to dive into the hobby. He wanted to go full-time, Mike said, but he had a daughter going to college and another close behind her. He “kept turning, kept banking,” Mike said, supporting his family and pursuing his craft.

However, when Mike moved to Waynesville to work at United Community Bank, he put the hobby aside for a while. It wasn’t until the particularly chilly winter of 2006, Mike said, that he began to turn again.

“I found out how much I really missed turning,” he said and has turned regularly since then.

McKinney described turning as the “only hobby I’ve had that pays its own way, not immediate or quick, but its true.”

After retiring, Mike now pursues woodturning as much as he likes. He described turning as the “only hobby I’ve had that pays its own way, not immediate or quick, but its true.”

Mike is involved with the Haywood Arts Council, Carolina Mountain Woodturners and American Association of Woodturners.

He said he has benefited tremendously from the clubs he’s been a part of, learning that there is “not an exact right way to do anything. Sometimes it’s just good to know you’re not doing it wrong.”

Mike says WNC is a pretty crafty community, with “lots of opportunities to find someone to talk to and commiserate with.” These last few months, however, COVID-19 has kept him at home more than usual. On the bright side, he remarked, he has had a lot of time in the shop. All that time has led him artistically to places he wouldn’t have gone if he hadn’t been spending time in the workshop, he said.

Mike said the pandemic has slowed sales, but he has been able to build up a backlog of work that he soon hopes to sell soon. He plans on having an online presence, but in the meantime his work can be found at Cedar Hill Studio and Gallery, the Haywood County Arts Council Gallery and Gifts and the Red Wolf Gallery in Brevard. With a laugh, he also invited folk to shop off his dining room table.

Mike McKinney turns a walnut bowl just begun from scratch. Mike said form is the “measure of a good piece.” It is the shape, profile and grain pattern that make for something special. He said, “I try to look at the wood I am using … Figure out what I can do that’ll be becoming in the end.”

Mike McKinney resumes turning on a partially carved bowl he plucked from a shelf. He said he puts about three hours of work into each bowl, but most will dry for about a year during the process.

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“That’s why they broadened who is responsible if they’re told,” said Heinz.

“Because now they may mention that to a coach, they could mention that to their favorite teacher, they could talk to their counselor, it doesn’t have to be me. That would count as an informal complaint and now we would be responsible for an investigation.”

Heinz said that not much will change as far as how people are treated, the biggest change is how an investigation would proceed.

“We take these things very seriously, and we always look into anything that we think is a problem,” he said. “For our procedures, not much will change because we’ve

Another change to the regulations places the burden on the complainant to inform the school that harassment is taking place. Schools cannot be held liable if a student or employee did not inform a district representative of harassment.

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been doing this all along anyway. It just changes the legality of who’s responsible if something did go to court.”

The board tabled the policy changes until its next meeting to give the public a chance to comment.

Both the State of New York and the ACLU have filed lawsuits against the new Title IX regulations for, among other reasons, the narrowing of the definition of sexual harassment as well as the new standard of sex discrimination and how it differs from discrimination based on race or national origin. A lawsuit filed by the National Women’s Law Center takes issue with increased protections for those accused of sexual misconduct in higher education, including newly required live hearings.

Under the new regulations the definition of sexual harassment changes from “so severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the school’s education program or activity” to “so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the school’s education program or activity.” Department guidance on racial harassment uses a “severe, pervasive or persistent” standard.

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BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER aywood County Schools Title IX Coordinator Jason Heinz recently discussed policy changes that must go into effect by Aug. 14 in order to adhere to new Title IX regulation set forth by the U.S. Department of Education.

Among the changes is one consolidated process for dealing with harassment complaints between teachers or students.

Previously, complaints between staff members would be handled under a different procedure than complaints between students. Now, all parties are treated equally, and complaints between two employees, two students, or an employee and a student will all follow the same procedure.

The procedure following a complaint has also been updated to include more people in the process. Previously, the Title IX coordinator, the human resources director in the case of Haywood County Schools, would handle all complaints. This meant the coordinator would hear the formal complaint, investigate the situation, write the report and provide that to the superintendent.

Now, the complaint can be reported to any school system employee, as every employee is considered a representative of the district, not just the Title IX coordinator.

“It just gives students, parents and employees more avenues to tell someone that they trust, or someone that they’re comfortable talking to about something like that. It is a little intimidating when you have to go see the Title IX coordinator to report something to some people,” said Heinz.

Under the new regulation, after the complaint has been lodged, the Title IX coordinator takes the complaint to the superintendent and the superintendent will appoint someone to investigate. The investigator can no longer be the Title IX coordinator.

“This is good because I would coordinate the whole process, but I am not doing the investigation,” said Heinz.

The investigator can be any administrator in the district, including the principal at the school where the incident occurred.

After the investigation, the superintendent receives all the information gathered and makes a decision. The decision can be appealed by the district board of education.

“That’s a better system in our opinion,” said Heinz. “It has more people looking at it, it has more people involved, you don’t have just one person’s opinion talking to the superintendent.”

Another change to the regulations places the burden on the complainant to inform the school that harassment is taking place. Schools cannot be held liable if a student or employee did not inform a district representative of harassment.

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Haywood schools to adopt new complaint policy

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More COVID-19 outbreaks reported in WNC Residents refusing to cooperate with trace testing efforts

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ccording to the Haywood County Health Department, a significant number of the close contacts of positive COVID-19 cases recently identified by contact tracers have refused to participate in contact tracing, testing, and/or quarantine.

“These people are at higher risk of being pre-symptomatic carriers of the virus and are putting the rest of the community at risk,” the department stated in a press release.

“This is all the more reason to keep wearing a face mask that covers your nose and mouth, wash your hands regularly, and keep a distance of six feet between yourself and anyone who doesn’t live in your house.”

In the past two weeks, Haywood County has had COVID-related deaths, a significant outbreak at Silver Bluff nursing home in Canton and a COVID cluster at a place of business. The outbreak at Silver Bluff accounts for many cases since it has affected both residents and staff. Some staff have infected family members.

In just over a week, Haywood County saw 74 new COVID-19 cases. On July 31, Haywood County’s COVID-19 working number — representing individuals who are currently in isolation or quarantine due to exposure — was 198 people. Of those, 53 cases were in isolation after testing positive and 145 people were in quarantine because they have been identified as close contacts of known cases during contact tracing efforts.

All are being monitored by the Haywood County COVID-19/contact tracing team.

“We’ve also seen our case numbers rise dramatically in July. When we take a closer look at our cases, we do see patterns and connections that help give perspective,” the press release stated.

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“We mostly see new cases related to existing cases (family or work spread.) We still have cases pop up where the individual has no idea how they were exposed, which is an indicator of community spread,” said Health Director Patrick Johnson.

Haywood has had a total of 348 positive COVID-19 cases — of those, 207 are recovered and six have died. More than 6,880 COVID-19 tests have been conducted in the county.

“If you have symptoms such as headache, fever, cough, shortness of breath or loss of sense of smell don’t wait, get tested,” said

Johnson. “If your doctor isn’t providing testing, contact one of the local urgent cares. Call first for pre-emptive screening and to find out what the current protocols are for when you arrive. It’s also important to understand that anyone tested for COVID-19, even as a standard pre-operative precaution, needs to stay home and self-quarantine away from other family members as able until test results are received, and then follow instructions according to the test results.”

As of Tuesday, Jackson County’s COVID19-related deaths were at four. All the deaths have been people over the age of 65 with underlying health conditions. In total, Jackson has had 412 positive cases, but a majority of them are considered recovered. As f of Tuesday, only 33 people were in isolation.

Jackson County also had an outbreak at a nursing home, Skyland Care Center, that was announced July 17 when five residents tested positive.

Macon County was up to 460 total cases as of press time Tuesday, but 387 of those are recovered. The county has 70 active cases, 236 tests pending and three COVID-19-relat- f w ed deaths.

The latest outbreak in Macon was reported Monday at Drake Cottage, a congregate p living facility. Four staff/patients tested positive. All the residents and staff of Drake j Cottage were tested for COVID-19 at the b direction MCPH’s Medical Director and Drake Cottage. All results have been received, and all residents and staff will be tested again A later in the week.

Swain County has had a total of 106 positive cases, but only 10 of those cases are still considered active and those residents are in isolation.

There have been two COVID-19-related deaths and 229 test results are still pending.

In North Carolina, COVID-19 cases were up to 128,161 on Aug. 4 — 2,019 deaths and 1,166 hospitalizations were reported. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has free community testing events coming up, including one in Highlands from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 8; in Jackson County from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 12 at 164 WBI Dr., Dillsboro and Graham County from noon to 2 p.m. at 50 Fontana Rd., Fontana Dam. For more information, visit https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/about-covid19/testing/find-my-testing-place/pop-testing-sites.

and requires anyone entering to wear a face mask at all times.

“Harris Regional Hospital strongly encourages our community members to wear masks because each of us plays an important role in helping to keep our community safe and protect one another from the spread of infectious diseases,” said Jean Sprinkle, BSN, RN, Infection Prevention Specialist at Harris Regional Hospital. “One of the easiest and most effective ways we can look out for each other and aid in the fight against COVID19 is to wear a face mask in public spaces right now.”

Recent studies have shown that universal masking can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19, especial-

ly in individuals who may be asymptomatic and unaware that they are ill. Face masks and cloth face coverings should be worn over the nose and mouth and be held securely in place with loops or ties.

“Until there is a vaccine, wearing a mask in public, practicing social distancing and proper hand hygiene are our best lines of defense in reducing the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” Sprinkle says. “That’s why we’ve established a universal masking protocol in our facilities to help protect our patients, providers and employees, and we’re encouraging our fellow citizens to do the same in other public places. By looking out for each other, we’ll get through this together and continue making our community healthier.”

A COVID-19 outbreak is defined as two or more cases of COVID-19 found in staff or patients in a long-term care Facility and it is a serious public health concern.

The cluster identified at a business has had five positive staff members who’ve infected family and friends. The North Carolina Division of Public Health defines clusters of COVID-19 in workplace, educational, and other community settings as a minimum of five cases with illness onsets or initial positive results within a 14-day period and plausible linkage between cases where cases were present in the same setting during the same time period.

“We mostly see new cases related to existing cases (family or work spread.) We still have cases pop up where the individual has no idea how they were exposed, which is an indicator of community spread.”

— Haywood County Health Director Patrick Johnson

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Harris urges community to wear masks Harris Regional Hospital is urging community members to wear face masks or cloth face coverings in public areas where social distancing is not easily achieved in an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

This aligns with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as being an effective way to prevent the spread of the illness.

The hospital has already instituted a universal masking protocol within its facilities

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER t a July 30 special called meeting, Dr. Trevor Putnam presented the Haywood County School Board with a contract in conjunction with Green County Schools and the North Carolina Rural Center to provide 243 hotspots for students and staff without internet access. The service will be provided free for 12 months.

Haywood County Schools received $62,453 in funding from the state for “community Wi-Fi access,” Putnam said. This contract will cost HCS $62,344 of that funding.

Haywood County Schools applied to a consortium created by Dr. Patrick Miller, superintendent of Green County Schools and the Rural Center in order to use the funds most efficiently. According to Putnam, with the state funds HCS could purchase devices, but the money could not be used to pay for internet service.

“This consortium was formed in conjunction with Kajeet, and Kajeet said ‘look, buy the devices and we will furnish the service for one year.’ So, we used all available money just to purchase those devices.

And those devices will be used for students and staff who do not have internet access,” he said.

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area has reached out to us and is trying to establish one in the Dutch Cove Area, and we’ve had Marion Ferguson at the Fines Creek Fire Department, at the little pavilion area, he’s also trying to establish one,” said Putnam. “So we’ve had a good many community partners reach out to us and we’re providing whatever we can in the way of technical expertise, and establishing those.

Our community partners are doing a lot of the frontend work and purchasing equipment.”

Putnam says though this is a difficult region for internet access, the goal will be to have connectivity for everyone as students begin the fall semester remotely.

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problem of internet access within the school system, the school board elected to donate 50 access points to the county. The school system is working together with the county to create community hotspots.

“Sometime in the near future we hope to have a coverage map so we can publish that, and everyone can see where to go for those hotspots,” said Putnam.

Pigeon Street Community Center, Fines Creek and Cruso — some of the most problematic areas in regard to internet access — are among the first three community hotspots the schools system and the county are working to establish.

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A survey conducted in the spring, after schools had gone fully remote due to the pandemic, showed 14.59 percent of Haywood County students did not have reliable internet access. According to the survey that would mean at least 648 students do not have reliable internet, much more than the 243 available hotspots for students and staff.

Putnam said these hotspots will be doled out on an “as needed” basis. As students and staff contact the school system with their connectivity problems, staff will resolve those issues until there are no more hotspots available.

“At that point in time we will re-evaluate and determine if more are needed and where we would find those funds. So, we’re working our way through on an as needed basis,” he said. “Far greater is the difficulty in finding reliable internet access. The several that I’ve worked on personally, it has been an issue of the internet service provider. Either they could not sustain reliable uninterrupted streaming, or teleconferencing and videoconferencing, or they did not have the bandwidth needed to download large files. So a good many of them are a result of the internet service provider.”

As another intended solution to the

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School board, community work to garner internet access

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Suspect dead, deputy wounded in July 28 shooting

Smoky Mountain News

August 5-11, 2020

One man is dead and a Haywood County Sheriff ’s deputy wounded after a July 28 shooting in Canton.

According to a press release issued by Angie Grube, public information director of the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, a preliminary investigation showed that a deputy and two officers responding to a possible disturbance off of Asheville Highway around 2 a.m. encountered an armed suspect standing on a billboard.

The suspect began to fire on officers, gunfire was exchanged, and the suspect, 32year-old Jacob Wilbur Wright, of Canton, was killed.

A deputy from the Haywood County Sheriff ’s Office, identified as Eric Batchelor, was shot and injured by Wright and as of July 28 was reported to be recovering in stable condition after surgery.

As is policy in the case of an officerinvolved shooting, the N.C. State Bureau of Investigations is now conducting an investigation into the incident.

Questions regarding the incident, such as the make and model of the suspect’s weapon and the number of shots fired and by whom, could not be answered according to Grube, because they remain part of the investigation.

Haywood Sheriff Greg Christopher said

20

that officers involved in shootings are normally placed on leave, with pay, until cleared by the investigating agency or the district attorney.

“Before they return to work we do a ‘fit for duty’ investigation,” said Christopher.

“It’s normally a psychiatric evaluation of the specific incident, done by a number of different companies here in North Carolina that provide that kind of service specifically for law enforcement.”

Christopher also said that law enforcement officers can be affected, sometimes deeply, by their involvement in such incidents.

“We are human beings, and we hurt just like other people hurt,” he said. “We have emotions just like anybody else, and I can tell you that a use of force – especially a deadly use of force event – will sometimes completely change a person’s life. It’s a very difficult thing to go through not only for them, but for their family as well.”

Grube said that there are too many factors involved with an investigation, including scope and circumstances, to provide a general timeline for its completion. When that does happen, the case file will be submitted to the district attorney for review.

— By Cory Vaillancourt

Educators hold protest Saturday North Carolina Association of Educators will hold a Car Caravan for a socially distant

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call to action to Senator Thom Tillis this Saturday, Aug. 8. The goal of the protest is to implore Sen. Tillis to support the Heroes Act to ensure funding for the safe reopening of public schools.

Around the state NCAE members, educators and supporters will gather to form caravans, then proceed to the local office of Sen. Tillis. Participants are encouraged to decorate their cars to spread their message.

The Heroes Act is a response to the Coronavirus Pandemic and its effect on the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals and businesses.

Among other things, the Heroes Act would set aside federal funding for grade schools, as well as colleges and universities, to “prevent, prepare for, and respond to Coronavirus.”

For more information, or to sign the NCAE petition to keep public schools funded and safe, visit www.organize2020.org.

Tipton appointed interim superintendent The Jackson County Board of Education announced the hiring of Dr. Tony Tipton as interim superintendent at their monthly meeting on July 28. A 35-year veteran of public education, Tipton will assume the role currently held by Dr. Kimberly Elliott who will retire on Sept. 1.

“I have worked with Dr. Tipton on the regional superintendents’ council, and he has always demonstrated caring leadership,”

Dr. Tony Tipton Elliott said.

Board Chairperson Ali Large said experience was an important factor in choosing Tipton. “He has been a fifth-grade teacher, a middle school teacher, a high school teacher, an assistant principal, and a principal,” Large said. “We are excited for him to bring that experience to Jackson County Public Schools.”

Tipton, a former Region 8 Superintendent of the Year, retired in 2019 after nearly eight years as Superintendent of Yancey County Schools.

“Jackson County Schools has a wellrespected reputation across western North Carolina, and I am pleased to be part of this hard-working team,” Tipton said. “While the upcoming year will be anything but normal, we will be committed to providing the best and safest instruction possible for students and staff.”

Tipton and his wife Barbara have been married for 41 years. They have three children and two grandchildren.

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August 5-11, 2020

BY HOLLY KAYS Onieal’s contract and its eventual hiring of STAFF WRITER current Town Manager Rob Hites. That was ylva Town Manager Paige Dowling is Morgan’s fifth interim gig, and last year he currently out on maternity leave, but finished up another such post in Henderson Sylva will be in experienced hands County’s Laurel Park, where he served as until her return. interim town manager from December During a meeting on Thursday, July 9, 2018 until May 2019. the town board voted unanimously to The Sylva board voted July 9 to move appoint Mike Morgan as interim town $32,100 from fund balance to cover the cost manager. Morgan, who retired in 2010 after of Morgan’s contract, which provides that 18 years as town manager for Weaverville, has spent the decade since filling a series of interim manager spots in towns across the region and has a particularly strong connection to Sylva.

After his retirement from Weaverville, Morgan worked as an adjunct faculty member at Western Carolina University’s Masters of Public Administration program.

One of his students was Sylva native Paige Dowling, who graduated in 2012, the Mike Morgan stands outside town hall following his 2016 same year that she was appointment as interim manager for the Town of Waynesville. hired on as Sylva town File photo manager at the age of 25.

Dowling and Morgan didn’t just work together in the classroom — they worked together in he receive $70 per hour given in bi-weekly the real world as well. Dowling’s hire as pay periods. He is to work no more than 24 town manager came following a vacancy hours per week with a maximum of eight during which she served as assistant town hours per day. manager alongside the interim town manMorgan’s contract also states that he can ager. That interim manager just happened be reimbursed for any “necessary and reato be Mike Morgan. sonable” lodging, meals and incidentals “We really appreciate you coming out of related to his employment. He will also be your retirement to help the Town of Sylva provided with a town vehicle or receive once again,” Mayor Lynda Sossamon said reimbursement for miles traveled to and during the July 9 meeting. from the town and while conducting town “It is my honor to do so,” Morgan business. The town will reimburse him for replied. “Thank you so much.” use of his personal cell phone as well.

In 2016, Morgan led the town of Dowling’s maternity leave began July 12 Waynesville in the months between the and is expected to total at least two months, town board’s decision to terminate Marcy though no specific date is set for her return.

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HRMC introduces hyperbaric therapy Haywood Regional Medical Center’s Ambulatory Infusion, Sleep Center, and Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center recently moved to The Homestead. The move allows for increased comfort for patients in need of these treatments, whether it is multi-day wound treatments, lengthy infusions or a quieter sleep lab.

As a part of the move, HRMC has installed and begun use of two hyperbaric oxygen therapy chambers.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps the body’s oxygen-dependent, wound-healing mechanisms function more efficiently. Patients are enclosed in a clear, large chamber, and breathe pure oxygen, allowing 15 to 20 times the normal amount of oxygen to be delivered to the body’s tissues and stimulate healing. A number of patients may benefit from the therapy, including diabetics who have non-healing wounds or bone infections, patients who have radiation cystitis, those with compromised skin grafts and more.

Interim CEO Chris Fensterle shared, “HRMC has already begun treating patients with HBOT. It’s exciting, as we are able to help the folks in the community that have non-healing wounds that don’t respond to standard wound care. It can prevent amputations and extend patients’ lives.”

Visit www.myhaywoodregional.com for more information.

HRMC to honor nurses with DAISY Award Haywood Regional Medical Center has opened nominations to honor nurses with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day.

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patients, families, colleagues and the local community may nominate nurses. The award recipient is chosen by a committee at HRMC to receive The DAISY Award.

Awards are presented throughout the year at celebrations attended by the Honoree’s colleagues, patients, and visitors.

To nominate a local nurse, visit www.daisynomination.org/hrmc. More information about the DAISY Foundation is available at www.daisyfoundation.org.

Harris expands pain services Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital are pleased to provide comprehensive pain services across western North Carolina in Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties.

Harris Pain Center, with locations in Sylva and Franklin, is now open and scheduling appointments. Swain Comprehensive Pain Services has served patients in Bryson City for more than a decade. Services provided at the Harris and Swain pain centers include diagnosis and treatment of a number of chronic conditions, including neck and back pain, headaches and migraines, fibromyalgia, cancer pain, diabetic and joint pain, arthritis, neuropathic pain, sciatica, and complex regional pain syndrome. Treatments include interventional

pain procedures such as spinal cord stimulator implantation and management.

The Harris Pain Center is located at 81 Medical Park Loop, Suite 202 in Sylva on the campus of Harris Regional Hospital adjacent to the Harris Regional Cancer Center. The Harris Pain Center – Franklin is located at 55 Holly Springs Drive at the Harris Regional Hospital Medical Park of Franklin. The Swain Pain Center is located at 45 Plateau Street in Bryson City on the campus of Swain Community Hospital.

Visit www.myharrisregional.com or www.myswaincommunity.com for more information.

Library to host Red Cross training During the month of August, the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City has teamed up with the American Red Cross to offer several Virtual Red Cross trainings on how to be prepared for a variety of emergency situations. These programs are catered to a variety of ages, though anyone can attend any program.

The series of trainings kicks off at 3 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 10, with Hands Only CPR. Hands Only CPR is a quick skill learning program intended to teach participants when and how to perform hands-only CPR in the hopes of having more trained bystanders increase the chance of someone surviving a cardiac emergency. To register for the Hands Only CPR train, visit https://bit.ly/2P72Kvu. At 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12, the class will be Prepare with Pedro —an interactive program that shows students in kindergarten through second grade what they need to do if a flood were to happen in their local area and how to stay safe. To register, visit https://bit.ly/2P9Gst1.

For a full description of all the trainings, use this link: https://bit.ly/2D3mE8s.

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“We’re extraordinarily proud that this is the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale and the fact that nurses continue to be the centerpiece in delivery of extraordinary care in this nation,” Stone said. “The innovation, the creativity that you’ve demonstrated in the care of very sick patients continues to amaze me.”

Vaya urges focus on trauma of racism

Bryson receives Mercy Award Haywood Regional Medical Center recently announced that Debby Bryson has been recognized as the hospital’s 2020 Mercy Award winner, which recognizes one employee from each of LifePoint Health’s hospitals who profoundly touches the lives of others and best represents the spirit and values on which the company was founded. The award is considered the highest honor an individual LifePoint employee can receive.

Bryson’s role in patient excellence is integral to HRMC’s patient satisfaction and quality care, as she often interacts with patients at their most vulnerable. Bryson touches every corner of the hospital in her work to navigate patient experiences to successful conclusions. In addition, through her work as project coordinator for clinical learning, she helped steer the processes for HRMC’s most recent Chest Pain Center reaccreditation and Cancer Program accreditation.

VA Health nurses earn national awards Two Western North Carolina VA Health Care System employees were presented Secretary of VA’s Awards for Excellence in Nursing & for Advancement in Nursing Programs during a virtual ceremony at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville.

Chief Nurse Executive Dave Przestrzelski and Licensed Practical Nurse Jim Luetkenhaus won in the Nurse Executive and Licensed Practical Nurse categories respectively. Stephanie Young, Western North Carolina VA Health Care System Director, presented the awards on behalf of Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie and Dr. Richard Stone, Veterans Health Administration Executive in Charge, who participated in the event.

Vaya Health is encouraging conversations on the impact of racism on mental health and spreading the word about local treatment resources in recognition of Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Awareness Month.

Initially called Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, the observance was created in 2008 to bring awareness to the unique mental health struggles that underrepresented groups face in the United States. Recent events have turned national attention to longstanding effects of racism, including physical health effects such as higher COVID-19 infection and death rates among people of color.

Racial trauma can occur due to daily discrimination and bigotry, according to Mental Health America (MHA). It also can be carried throughout generations due to historical adversities, violence and oppression. Trauma is a frequent cause of multiple mental health conditions, with depression the most commonly reported condition among people of color, according to MHA. Based in Asheville, Vaya manages Medicaid and other publicly funded services for mental health needs, substance use disorder and intellectual/developmental disabilities in 22 counties in western North Carolina. To learn more about treatment options, call Vaya at 800.849.6127.

New pediatrician in Haywood County Haywood Regional Medical Center recently hired Dr. Traci N. Lombard to join its staff and will be offering pediatric services to patients throughout Haywood County and beyond.

Lombard brings 20 years of board-certified pediatric experience to HRMC. “Dr. Lombard has years of experience in treating children — from nursery rounding to teen physical fitness, and she is an excellent addition to our hospital team,” said Chris Fensterle, interim CEO of HRMC. “Taking care of our county’s youngest residents is so important, and Dr. Lombard’s expertise will be valuable as HRMC strives to meet our region’s evolving healthcare needs and make our community healthier.”

Lombard joins HRMC from Arizona, where she served patients and families in a variety of hospital-based, private and community practices. She graduated from the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1997 and completed her residency at Phoenix Children’s Hospital/Maricopa Medical Center.

Lombard will be seeing patients at Mountain Pediatrics. Call 828.452.8878.

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Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

The common thread — we’re Americans I

Are politicians non-essential?

To the Editor: Would the governor, his staff, his advisors, and cabinet make different decisions if they were determined to be “non-essential” and trying to survive on government largesse? As long as those that govern are drawing full salary and benefits, they will have an “us” and “them” perspective. Is the term “essential politician” an oxymoron? Just ruminating.

Paul Stapf Waynesville

Pardon me while I scream To the Editor: “The Constitution is not a suicide pact” is a quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln as he defended himself against charges of unconstitutionality when he suspended habeas corpus during the Civil War. Now, with protests gone bad throughout many cities in the country, there arose protests against the violence which got the mainstream press into action.

Not to condemn the violence, mind you. It was to lecture us about how important it is to have First Amendment freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, etc. for redress of grievances. I don’t see anyone trying to abridge these freedoms in this context. The

spring from the actions of a few Confederate ancestors.

At least three generations on my mom’s side — her, my grandparents and great grandparents — and likely as many as five or six generations on my father’s side spent their lives in the rural South both before and after the Civil War, during Reconstruction and the Jim Crow era. Did they benefit from slavery or the institutional racism?

Hell, I don’t know, none of them ever got rich or got into politics. Did they participate in racist crimes against Blacks or condone as much? That’s something I won’t ever know.

The Black Lives Matter movement is at the forefront of this new conversation, pushing boundaries, demanding to be heard. We all know from Editor where this movement sprang, from innocent Black people being killed by cops and vigilantes. It has grown to support all kinds of structural societal changes in the way we treat minorities and the way our culture views its own history. Here in Western North Carolina that movement has been met with sizeable counter protests who say all lives matter amid claims that the BLM movement is led by outsiders, that it supports violent riots in large cities, and that it wants to push the country toward Marxism, socialism and communism.

If there is a commonality from those staring and shouting at each other in our streets, it’s the fear that the other side is a real threat to what they perceive to be their “America.” That kind of polarization is amped up by the echo chambers of

Scott McLeod

n the streets of Western North Carolina, mostly young protestors calling for an end to structural and sometimes violent racism are being confronted by working-class Americans who think many of those grievances are illegitimate. Statues of Confederates and former slaveholders are toppling, and those that remain will forever be looked upon differently.

I’m trying to take it all in, trying to find some neat and orderly way to put in perspective what’s happening and predict an outcome in both the short and long term that seems attainable and moves us — Americans — forward. And I’m flailing, punching blind, not able to see a path beyond the conflict.

Amidst all this, I’m thinking about my own heritage, my “Southern-ness?” My roots are working class. My grandfather spent his entire working life at the J.P. Stevens textile mill in Cheraw, S.C., and most of my father’s brothers and sisters never worked anywhere else except in those mills around the Pee Dee River region. My paternal aunts and uncles and their families hunted, fished, kept pigs and chickens, and grew a significant portion of their own food. Mom’s side were immigrants from Hungary and Ireland. As a pre-teen, my mom, her sister, and my grandparents were tenant farmers in Pollocksville, N.C. So here I sit before sunrise, writing, thinking, a 60-year-old white man always proud of being from the South, who never considered that some might say my blood lineage tied me to the sins of slavery. My Southern pride emanates from a rebellious, independent spirit that mistrusts authority while searching for truths worth holding on to. It certainly doesn’t

LETTERS Constitution is well able to ensure these freedoms without allowing matters to devolve into chaos. When Confucius was asked what he would do as governor, he said he would rectify the names, to make words correspond to reality. What we need in America today is a rectification of names.

Peaceful protests do not “intensify,” they become riots. When riots have the avowed purpose of overthrowing the government, it is called an insurrection. We must be able to make critical distinctions and to calibrate responses accordingly. It doesn’t help having to swim up the stream of lies and half-truths we are flooded with by our cultural wordsmiths. The media doesn’t like the term “enemy of the people” hung on them but they have worked hard to earn it by their journalistic malpractice of using words that mischaracterize, obscure the truth, or refuse to report the news at all.

Another big thing today is anti-racism, as if it has just been discovered. That’s another misnomer. Today’s anti-racism is just warmed over, repackaged, old-fashioned racism. It is lipstick on a pig. Non-white people can be as racist as any white, and whites who try to divest themselves of racism by hating themselves and denigrating other whites based on their DNA are only demonstrating their racism. Why can’t we look at people as people, people? This was, after all, the hope and promise of the Civil Rights Movement but it

social media, talk radio, and cable television commentators.

Too many have forgotten a political truth that President Ronald Reagan reportedly told everyone who worked in the West Wing: “we don’t have enemies, we have opponents.” He refused to demonize those who believed differently. Today almost all of us routinely “hate” those on the other side of the issue instead of “disagreeing” with what they believe.

If we truly are a country that thrives on tolerance, inclusion and openness, then we must also accept that we will sometimes lose on an issue, lose an ideological debate, that something we don’t believe will be part of what shapes this country going forward. In the heat of the battle, it’s disheartening to accept that the opponent is going to prevail. When tempers cool, it gets easier. We have to embrace the process, the democratic order, or we have nothing.

Count me a proud white Southerner who doesn’t give a damn about the monuments and statues. I liken them to the golden calves — the false idols — the Hebrews turned to when Moses left them in the desert. That’s something I’d have to tell my great grandfather if I could. He was born in 1872 in South Carolina and was named Robert Lee McLeod.

Somehow I don’t think that name was a coincidence.

As for the protestors and the counter protestors, I’ll say this: it’s the rule of law, the democratic process and the right to free speech that unite us. I’ve always admired the protestors, the disruptors, those who scream and shout their beliefs.

We’re Americans all, so it’s our birthright to be revolutionaries. Too often, though, we forget that, in the end, we’re on the same team.

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

has since degenerated into stupidity.

The only real Civil Rights leaders we have are those who are seldom recognized or maybe called Uncle Toms for their trouble when they try to point out some inconvenient truths.

A recent American Cancer Society update on guidelines for cancer screening said that people with a cervix should get screened for cervical cancer.

Pardon me while I scream. What happened to women? This is insane! This only scratches the surface of the bastardization of language that occurs all around us. Be aware, don’t get fooled. Rectify the names! Or just call a spade a spade.

David Parker Sylva

Cawthorn should support ACA To the Editor: It is disappointing to see a young, politically inexperienced but passionate and coura-

geous gentleman like Madison Cawthorn totally fall for Donald Trump’s agenda to dismantle health care for millions of Americans.

To illustrate: There are at least 4,500 people in Haywood County alone who have gained access to health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (Obama Care), which Trump has vowed to destroy. Trump pledged that on “day one” of his term in office there would be a “beautiful health plan— the greatest ever,” to replace the ACA. No such plan exists. Why does Mr. Cawthorn identify himself with this cruelty. Over 100 million Americans are protected by the ACA from being dropped from medical insurance because they have a “pre-existing condition.” This protection will

disappear if Trump and his allies have their way. A for-profit insurance company can decide they just can’t afford to treat your mother’s cancer. Bye bye insurance.

Over 4 million people have lost their employer-based insurance because of COVID-19 job loss. Expanding Medicaid — which would help over 500,000 people in North Carolina alone — and create upwards of 20,000 jobs— has been stubbornly opposed by the Trump crowd. Mr. Cawthorn, please disassociate yourself from this foolish and heartless position and speak out on this!

In an interview with CNBC while attending the World Economic forum in Davos, Switzerland, Trump stated that changes (cuts) in Medicare and Medicaid would be “on the table,” but not until “after the election .” Sneaky! Virtually every single family in Haywood County has someone totally dependent on these programs for their health care. These two federal benefits along with Social Security itself have been hated targets of Republicans ever since presidents Roosevelt and Johnson got them passed in 1936 and 1966. Mr. Cawthorn?

After 30 years practicing medicine in Haywood County, I must strongly object to the needless suffering the above policies will cause. I urge every citizen to prepare to vote — by absentee ballot, early voting or on November 3. Vote like your life and that of your loved ones depend on it. They do.

Steve Wall Haywood County

To the Editor: By now, it’s disappointingly clear that Madison Cawthorn, the Republican candidate to represent N.C. District 11 in the U.S. House of Representatives, intends to run a campaign of division and name-calling rather than put forth any fresh ideas for how he would improve the lives of all of his potential constituents here in Western North Carolina regardless of political party.

Still, while it wasn’t surprising to see him pandering to the furthest right-wing fringes of his base in Cory Vaillancourt’s excellent July 29 story (“Cawthorn: Davis, Democrats are ‘racist’”) by continuing his mindless attempt to denigrate “white liberals,” it was shocking to see just how intolerant and ignorant his views on race really are.

Setting aside the remarkable hubris required for a 24-year-old white man who has never left a county that is 94.5 percent white to speak for Black people about reparations while laughably accusing his opponent — retired Air Force Colonel and successful government racial discrimination prosecutor Moe Davis — of being a racist and claiming Confederate soldiers gave their lives to free slaves, I would be very interested to hear Cawthorn explain why his real estate company is called “SPQR Holdings LLC.” According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, “SPQR” was on flags at the deadly “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, which was merely one example of how the abbreviation has been adopted by white nationalist groups (Google: “SPQR white nationalism”). This seems like a very disturbing coincidence at the very least and one a candidate with such overt hostility to a conversation about racial justice should address immediately.

Ron Wagner Asheville

Since March, Current Dermatology has implemented various safety measures based on CDC and American Academy of Dermatology guidelines, along with company protocols to help protect our patients. Employee measures included temperature checks, wearing masks at all times during patient interactions, and strict hand washing. Patient protection measures included screening questions, temperature checks, social distancing in the waiting areas, allowing patients to wait in cars, rescheduling routine appointments and all patients deemed high risk for complications from COVID-19, as well as requesting patients wear masks. We also began implementing virtual visits to keep our office numbers lower and provide a safe platform for patients who were not comfortable being in public.

Current Dermatology has closely monitored data from government and health organizations related to the spread of COVID-19. We took all precautions necessary to protect our patients. However, in June, after some of our employees tested positive, we realized where there was a need to strengthen our own protocols during staff lunches and times when there were no patients in the clinic. At that time, we chose to close the office for two weeks to ensure all our staff had time to get tested and those staff that were positive had time to fully recover.

At this time, we are implementing stricter rules regarding PPE, hand washing, and screening for our employees. We remain committed to open and timely communication, and continue to take measures to do our part to stop the spread of the virus. Our first priority is the health of our patients and staff, and our sincerest thoughts are with those who are recovering. We have returned to full staffing levels and are ready to assist in your health care needs.

Please use our experience as a reminder to practice social distancing and to wear PPE.

Currie Patterson, MD Certified by the American Board of Dermatology

Sylva: 61 Bonnie Lane Franklin: 197 Riverview Street Clyde: 243 Jones Cove Road

828-631-1852 www.currentdermatology.com

Smoky Mountain News

To the Editor: Roger Parsons is running for re-election as Swain County commissioner and is a lifelong resident of Swain County. He is known to many in Cherokee and Bryson City as a UPS driver until he retired a few years ago.

Roger is married to an enrolled member of the Eastern Band and served on the Swain County Board of Education for 16 years.

Roger regularly attended the Swain County Democratic Party WhittierCherokee precinct meetings before the Covid-19 pandemic forced the meetings to cease. As Swain County commissioner, Roger reported on issues and always responded to questions. Among other issues, Roger supported the EBCI on the Catawba Casino issue and voted for renaming a portion of U.S. 441 the Dr. Jeremiah Wolfe Highway.

Roger supports the North Carolina Democratic Party Code of Conduct. When asked for a statement of his values, Roger stated: • I respect and value diversity and I’m committed to equality for all.

• I pledge to be honest and truthful in all aspects of my life and service as a Commissioner, trust is earned.

• I commit myself to be open-minded. May I never be so rigid in my thinking that I can’t learn from new facts and information.

• I will always remember that I work for

Cawthorn’s hubris not surprising

A MESSAGE TO OUR PATIENTS

August 5-11, 2020

Support Parsons for Swain Commissioner

the people. I’m accessible and will listen.

• I pledge to be a good steward of our resources.

• I believe that compassion, dedication and service to others is a sign of strength.

• I believe that we should leave this world better than we found it.

• I believe that optimism and a positive attitude are important in life.

• I believe in the “Golden Rule” and “Loving your neighbor.”

• I believe in a high standard of ethics for all elected offices.

Roger’s hopes for the Qualla Boundary are to continue to work in partnership with Swain County on issues concerning all residents of Swain County. Roger’s hopes for Swain County are to remember our history but look to the future and continue to grow and improve our community. As a County Commissioner, Roger will listen to the needs of the people. I encourage all residents of Swain County to vote for Roger Parsons as County Commissioner.

Mary A. Herr Cherokee, NC

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A&E

Smoky Mountain News

Shaun Richardson and Seth Taylor.

Brothers of a feather New acoustic duo to make WNC debut

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER ith the current pandemic and economic shutdown, the music industry was the first business sector to close its doors and will most likely be the last to reopen when all is said and done.

Musicians and bands across the country immediately stopped touring and performing, their lives in the bright lights and on the road coming to an abrupt halt: physically, sonically and financially. And while many acts didn’t know what to do and, perhaps, where to go, Seth Taylor and Shaun Richardson buckled down and tapped into their bountiful creative waters.

Born and raised in Bryson City (and calling Nashville home in recent years), Taylor is the renowned guitarist for beloved bluegrass/jam group Mountain Heart. Like Taylor, Richardson is an in-demand studio session guitarist and producer, with his current gig being a member of legendary bluegrass ensemble Dailey & Vincent.

As young and talented pickers in the Nashville scene, Taylor and Richardson eventually gravitated toward each other, which, just before and during the shutdown this spring, has parlayed itself into an off-and-running solo project for the budding duo.

A blend of whirlwind acoustic guitar instrumentals and intricate songwriting, their soonto-be released debut album is a melodic stamp in time and place for two six-string aces with long-term artistic visions and an unrelenting urge to keep digging deep: onstage and in the studio.

W

Smoky Mountain News: How did the quarantine treat you, not only as a creative person, but also in general?

Seth Taylor: I’ve been doing good. It’s been kind of weird not being able to travel [and be on tour]. But, other than that, [Shaun and I] have been working on music, which has been good. At first, it felt weird to even try and work on anything, I think everybody [in the music industry] was just trying to figure out what to do next. Once I got used to [being home], it became easier to work on [music].

Shaun Richardson: At first, it was a kind of

Want to go?

Guitar duo Shaun Richardson & Seth Taylor will be performing an outdoor patio show at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, at The Grey Eagle Music Hall in Asheville.

The concert is all ages. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 day of show. The performance will be limited capacity with social distancing guidelines in place.

Advance ticket purchases are encouraged.

For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit www.thegreyeagle.com. To learn more about Richardson and Taylor, visit www.shaunrichardsonmusic.com or www.sethtaylormusic.com. traumatic time to regroup. And then we eased into working on stuff to try and make up for lost time or utilize our time better.

SMN: What have you been working on? Is it more songwriting or more toward instrumentals?

ST: We started working on a little guitar project last year about this time. We cut all of the tracks last year and this past February. We didn’t really have a plan for the recordings, but we did think it would be cool to have something ready for a [solo project] at some point.

Now, we’ve had the time to kind of wrap this [album] up and we’ve been trying to book little shows and play studios sessions wherever we

“Oftentimes we’re behind the scenes helping other people’s artistry come to life. With this, we have a creative outlet where we’re playing the songs we’ve written and playing songs that we really care about — that means a lot to us.”

—Shaun Richardson

can. But, it’s been really hard to do because there aren’t very many shows happening.

SMN: What is the dynamic? I mean, it’s two guitar players, but is there a singing component? What can people expect to hear?

SR: I’d say a majority of the music is instrumental guitar music we’ve collaborated on together. It’s about finding that balance between playing off each other — being a counterpoint to one another. There are songs that I’ve written that feature lyrics and some covers, too. It’s a nice mix of both. So, by the time [the audience] gets tired of hearing the instrumental stuff, we’ll switch to the vocals and vice versa. [Laughs].

SMN: Seth, you’ve been able to play a couple shows during this pandemic. What’s that been like for you as a performer, being part of this “new normal” for live music?

ST: Man, Mountain Heart played two shows a couple of weeks ago in Virginia. That was the first time I’ve played live since our last Mountain Heart show on Feb. 28. It was

strange getting back onstage. We did The Harvester [Performance Center] in Rocky, Mount. They had little pods for the people, you had to wear a mask and get your temperature taken. It actually went really well. Everyone followed the rules and stayed in their area and we [as musicians] didn’t have to be around people at all.

SMN: Both of you are in popular, nationally-touring bands. Why is this solo project an important outlet?

SR: It’s nice for us, because oftentimes we’re behind the scenes helping other people’s artistry come to life. With this, we have a creative outlet where we’re playing the songs we’ve written and playing songs that we really care about — that means a lot to us.

For ourselves, we can have that personal artistry through this project. I’ve always enjoyed playing guitar, so this project is a long time coming. Seth and I really enjoy playing with each other. Now, we have something we can call our own and try to push it out into the world the best we can.

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

S

Spend Your Summer With Us!

Visit Boojum for Craft Brews, Delicious Food & Live Music.

We're following all safety precautions and will be offering more seating and events as the state allows.

Smoky Mountain News

tepping out of my pickup truck this past Saturday afternoon, I stood in the parking lot of the Maggie Valley Town Hall.

In the front entrance of the building were an array of local law enforcement agencies from around Haywood County. Underneath the big trees in the front yard were Black Lives Matter protesters. On the lawn next door, with eyes aimed at those under the big trees, were the counter protesters.

With all the emotional lead-up to the BLM march on Aug. 1 seen online, I honestly didn’t know what to expect: as a journalist and as a proud resident of Haywood County and greater Western North Carolina.

Over 100 folks marched along Soco Road from town hall to the fire department (a mile or so each way in the hot sun). With one lane of the road marked off for the march, a few hundred counter protesters were scattered along the sidewalk for the entire route through the heart of Maggie, with innumerable vehicles passing by either honking for or against the march.

Safety was the main concern and was upheld by the local law enforcement agencies onsite to walk with and protect the protesters. Hats off to those town and county officers who, in full uniform and gear belts, strolled alongside the protesters to ensure

everything went smoothly, which it did.

Both sides were mostly peaceful and respectful, truth be told. Yes, I heard some vile things shouted at the protesters here and there. And yes, there were countless motorcycles revving their engines to drown out the protest chants. But, I also witnessed incredible compassion and unity among those marching, many of which are folks who live in Haywood County and who I’ve called friends for several years.

While I observed and photographed those familiar faces in the march, I didn’t see or experience people trying to upend their own backyard. Nobody was there to physically destroy local businesses in a riot-like scenario. Nobody was there to fight and disrupt peace. If anything, it was a display of courage and personal conviction to seek out a better tomorrow, perhaps today.

At one point, I wandered across Soco Road to snap a few photos of the counter protesters. An older lady in the crowd saw my media badge dangling from my neck and called me out on it.

“You with Smoky Mountain News?” she shouted at me. “Yes ma’am.” “Well, I heard y’all are a bunch of Communists.” “Well, ma’am, I’m sorry to disappoint you, but that isn’t true.” “Y’all are a bunch of fuckin’ Communists.” Cue my exit from that interaction.

Sorry lady, I don’t have time to deal with the constant barrage of insults hurled at my newsroom on a daily basis. For the thousandth time: your local newspaper isn’t out to get you.

August 5-11, 2020

Your neighbor isn’t out to get you, nor is your local newspaper

and one mainly working in Small Town USA, I find most folks — regardless of political persuasion, religion, etc. — want a lot of the same things, either simply for themselves or their families, or for their community, too.

Your neighbor isn’t your enemy. Your neighbor is an often-missed opportunity to find common ground and to work together.

So, can’t we just tone down the yelling a few notches to what my mother called “an indoor voice”? Can we actually stop, listen and hear what the other person has to say?

When will we stop pointing fingers and offer a helping hand instead? When will the anger and division be turned into a place where actual positive, tangible change can occur?

The march ended with an eight-minute and 46-second moment of silence in front of town hall for the late George Floyd (the exact amount of time he had a knee pressed into his neck by a Minneapolis police officer). It was a genuinely powerful thing to stand there amid the protesters, the only sound being a slight afternoon breeze of a bird chipping nearby.

I must say, I will never be the same after attending that march. I’m still trying to digest and process what I saw and heard, for good or ill. If anything, I remain optimistic for the future of our society and this country, in general. I do.

And I will continue to wake up each day and aim to bridge this great divide that only seems to get bigger as we push into the unknowns and uncertainty of this era in American and world history.

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

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

We are journalists, editors and publishers who live in your communities. We choose to live and work here. This is our home. And with that, we work hard day in and day out to accurately cover and properly interpret the issues that are affecting all of us in these ancient mountains.

To that point, I did find many folks within The Black Lives Matter the counter protesters march in Maggie Valley. that weren’t angry or (photo: Garret K. Woodward) pissed off. These are folks that sincerely believe in their side of the issue, who stood firmly and in silence with their signs or just mere presence in solidarity for their cause.

Meandering around, I kept noticing the invisible line between the protesters and counter protesters. Though the BLM marchers did make it clear beforehand to not engage with irate counter protesters, there was not one person who stepped over the invisible line with a welcoming gesture to find common ground or understanding.

In my 14-year career as a journalist,

Hope to see you soon!

50 N Main St, Waynesville • 828-246-0350 • boojumbrewing.com HOURS: Sun., Mon., Wed, Thur. 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Fri. & Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

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August 5-11, 2020

arts & entertainment

On the street Open call for artist grants Artists in all disciplines are eligible to apply for grants to support their professional and artistic development through a partnership of the North Carolina Arts Council and Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center.

Artist Support Grants will be distributed to eligible applicants by Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center in the following counties: Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon, Swain, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Applications for the grants are available at www.coweeschool.org. The deadline is Sept. 30. Grants will range in awards from $500 to $1,000.

Emerging or established artists are encouraged to apply to support a range of professional and artistic development including the creation of work, improvement of business operations, or expanding capacity to bring work to new audiences.

Artist fees are also allowable expenses.

Artists in all disciplines are eligible to apply.

Informational online workshops with the N.C. Arts Council will be held via Zoom at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17, and at 2 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 19. To learn more, visit www.coweeschool.org/nc-arts-council.

Artist grants now available Artists in all disciplines are eligible to apply for grants to support their professional and artistic development through a partnership of the North Carolina Arts Council and Asheville Area Arts Council, Haywood County Arts Council, Arts Council of Henderson County, Tryon Fine Arts Center, Rutherford County Recreation, Cultural,

and Heritage Commission, and the Transylvania Community Arts Council.

Artist Support Grants will be distributed to eligible applicants by Haywood County Arts Council in the following counties: Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Polk, Rutherford, and Transylvania.

Applications for the grants are available www.haywoodarts.org/grants-funding.

The deadline is Sept. 30. Grants will range in awards from $500 to $1,000.

Emerging or established artists are encouraged to apply to support a range of professional and artistic development including the creation of work, improvement of business operations, or expanding capacity to bring work to new audiences.

Artist fees are also allowable expenses.

For information, visit www.haywoodarts.org or call 828.452.0593.

Waynesville art walk, live music

Cashiers Designer Showhouse The annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse will be held Aug. 5 through Sept. 5 at 144 Cove Drive in Highlands.

Interior designers representing the Southeastern region will not only bring trending design to Cashiers, but will again create the magic that is the Cashiers Designer Showhouse.

Leading area landscapers are involved in redefining the areas surrounding the home and in turn creating serene and evocative late summer mountain gardens for showhouse strolling.

Throughout the week, showhouse attendees will admire the work of the talented designers; enjoy a variety of workshops, book signings and panel discussions from beloved creatives across the country.

Admission is $30. For more information, visit www.cashiershistoricalsociety.org/ showhouse.

“Art After Dark” will continue from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, in downtown Waynesville.

Each first Friday of the month (May-December), Main Street transforms into an evening of art, music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors.

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

It is free to attend Art After Dark. For more information, visit www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com.

• Elevated Mountain Distilling Company will host the “Western Carolina Writers” songwriters showcase with Nick Mac, Jon Edwards and Jesse Frizsell at 8 p.m. Aug. 8.

Free and open to the public. www.elevatedmountain.com.

Smoky Mountain News

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Shane Meade 7 p.m. Aug. 7. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

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• Nantahala Brewing (Sylva) will host Shane Meade 5 p.m. Aug. 8. Free and open to the public. www.nantahalabrewing.com.

‘Kids at HART’ online classes Part of the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville, the Kids at HART program will offer classes in acting, directing and musical theatre dance.

Registration is currently underway. Classes will run Sept. 14 through Nov. 16. In November, HART will hold registration for spring classes.

Classes will begin virtually via Zoom and will transfer to the theatre as soon as it is deemed safe to return to face-to-face instruction. Classes have a minimum number, so tell your friends.

To register, visit www.harttheatre.org or visit the Kids at HART Facebook page. If you need further information, email Kids at HART at kidsathartwvl@gmail.com.

• The Great Blue Farms Brunch & Blooms will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays from Aug. 8 through Sept. 12 at 1101 Briartown Church Road in Nantahala/Topton.

Admission is $75, which includes a tour, brunch, all flowers, supplies and container to take home your floral masterpiece. To register, visit www.greatbluefarms.com or call 828.508.1502.

• There will be a free wine tasting from 2 to 5 p.m every Saturday at The Wine Bar & Cellar in Sylva. 828.631.3075.

• The Haywood County Arts Council “Artist Member Show” will be held through Aug. 29 at the HCAC Gallery & Gifts showroom in Waynesville. Featuring 42 artists, the show is a celebration of our community, allowing locals to share their great work at the height of the summer season. www.haywoodarts.org.

• There will be an artist demonstration with Richard Baker from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at the Haywood County Arts Council in Waynesville. Baker’s art pays homage to the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the same way that works of the Hudson River School movement captured the pastoral wilderness of America in the mid-nineteenth century. A disciple of this movement, Baker produces landscapes in oil that are studied in realistic detail and radiant light. www.haywoodarts.org.

ALSO:

• The “Haywood County Medical Exhibit: 1870-1950” will be held at The Shelton House in Waynesville. The showcase will run through October. Admission is $7 adults. $5 students. Children ages 5 and under free.

Admission includes Shelton House.

828.452.1551 or www.sheltonhouse.org.

On the shelf

Join us for our first

Jeff Minick

T

new sports stadium built by Taninger Enterprises, Billie’s project, are in violation of federal regulations, and Irene finds the advertisers on her entertainment network backing away because of her sister’s broadcasts. Eventually, they give Laura an ultima-

Author Ron Rash will be discussing his new book

Tuesday, August 25th at 3PM "In the Valley: Stories and a Novella Based on Serena." now availabl e in store!

TO REGISTER CALL OR EMAIL

blueridgebooks@ymail.com

Magazines - Newspapers 428 HAZELWOOD Ave. Waynesville • 456-6000

Join us for ’

YOGA

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AUGUST 24-28 AT 7PM Are you new to yoga - or recently recovered from an injury- and want to refresh the basics to deepen your yoga practice?

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This small class will also give you plenty of space for dialogue with a teacher who can offer modifications and advice on what will help you in your unique practice.

This will be a small group experience to make sure everyone gets personalized attention: to save your spot, register below. $125 for program // $75 for those who are brand new to WYC.

Smoky Mountain News

tum: either quit this story altogether or face dismissal from her position in the company.

Meanwhile, Laura’s sister Kate, editor for her college paper, writes a piece defending her sister and asking whether the highest officials of the government, including President Ken Martin, are involved in possible voting fraud. Paid protesters appear on campus, occupy the office of the university’s president, and demand the paper be closed and Kate Taninger thrown out of school.

Other characters and situations in Just The Truth seem to spring from today’s headlines. Darcy, adviser to President Martin and author of a guidebook “The New Leader,” makes Machiavelli look like Pollyanna. Sean, a journalist and Laura’s friend — he’s secretly in love with her — leaps at the chance to work in the White House and quickly finds himself forced to issue misinformation and lies about Laura’s broadcasts. Along with Irene and Billie, Laura’s father Clark finds himself torn between allowing Laura her investigation and the sinking advertising revenues and

threats via different government agencies.

Just The Truth also addresses language and the way we can twist words and euphemisms to do harm to others or to conceal our real intentions. A demonstration by the “Advocates for Peace and Democracy” leaves ten people hospitalized, dozens of stores looted, and police cars overturned. The mob that wrecks the campus and surrounding area in protest of Kate’s defense of her sister rides under the banner the “Foundation to Enrich Student Life.”

The administration doxes Laura, looking into her past for some misdeed to damage her reputation, and when nothing turns up, they simply label her a racist.

In his collection of essays The Leaning Tower of Babel, Richard Mitchell includes this chilling quote from Lenin, who has just received a letter from Kautski: “Why should we bother to reply to Kautski? He would reply to us, and we would have to reply to his reply.

There’s no end to that. It will be quite enough for us to announce that Kautski is a traitor to the working class, and everyone will understanding everything.” Because of our technology, we can all play Lenin now. We can dox our opponents, practice cancel culture, or savage them in social media.

Though the ending of Just The Truth is a little too neat — there is, however, a humorous moment when two government officials shoot and wound each other — this book brings a sharp spotlight on mainstream journalism, the corruption in our political system, the hidden forces behind “spontaneous” riots, and the way we use words to smear our opponents.

At the end of the novel, a journalist says to his television audience, “Journalism is the antidote to tyranny. Without it, the liberty we hold so dear will die.”

At this point in our history, we need journalism — real journalism — more than ever.

(Jeff Minick is a writer and teacher. minick0301@gmail.com)

August 5-11, 2020

he ancient philosopher Diogenes used to stroll about Athens holding a lantern to the faces of those he met and claiming he was looking for one honest man.

In the public square of modern America, truth can be just as hard to find.

Consider COVID-19. Hard facts about this virus, its prevention, its effect, and its fatality rate, are as rare as water on the moon. We are told we must follow the “science” regarding coronavirus, but that science has become so politicized that it is as useless as some of our governors.

Writer Recently, for example, a group of doctors who have fought on the front lines of the pandemic, treating actual patients, held a news conference Washington, D.C. One of them pointed out that Americans are needlessly living in a spider web of fear. A pediatrician stated that not one student worldwide had infected a teacher. Another had successfully used doxycycline to treat 350 patients, most of them elderly or with underlying health conditions. The number of people watching this video on social media was enormous.

Then YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter pulled the plug on it, which brings a question. Did these platforms ban the video because the medical information was wrong or because the organization sponsoring the event was the Tea Party Patriots?

On another front, we read articles and see pictures of mobs in cities like Portland and Seattle trying to burn federal courthouses, destroying property, and assaulting the police, which some of media and politicians insist are “peaceful protests.”

Once again, facts and truth get twisted out of shape.

In Just The Truth (Winged Victory Press, 2020, 227 pages), novelist Gen LaGreca holds a mirror to our troubled times by telling the story of Laura Taninger, an intrepid journalist who adheres fiercely to the slogan of her grandfather, founder of the Taninger news organization: “Find the truth wherever it hides.” As an investigative reporter and host of the television news show “Just The Truth,” Laura has stumbled onto evidence that the new electronic system being set up for presidential elections may be corrupt. When one of her sources is murdered, and when the federal government begins pressuring Taninger Enterprises, Laura becomes more convinced than ever she is on the right track.

Unfortunately, her father and two of her siblings, Irene and Billie, who serve on the company’s board with Laura, want her to tone down her nightly broadcasts. The government suddenly decides the seats in the

arts & entertainment

Why we need honest journalists right now

Virtual Author Discussion

Call 828.246.6570 or email us at hello@waynesvilleyogacenter.com

274 S. MAIN ST. WAYNESVILLE 828.246.6570

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

The newly conserved Chestnut Mountain property sits alongside U.S. 19/23, shown in this photo to the left of the road. Adam Wood photo

Bringing backcountry to the back door Early plans unveiled for Chestnut Mountain park

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER he project may still be in its early stages, but plans are beginning to take shape for the 448-acre park that will soon occupy the Chestnut Mountain property just outside of Canton.

“We’re looking forward to building an amazing place that really helps merge conservation and recreation and just something we can make for future generations,” said Assistant Town Manager Nick Sheuer during a public meeting on the project held July 29 via Zoom. “This is a big idea and a huge project and something that really has the potential to impact our region for not just our lifetime but for our kids and our grandkids.”

While behind-the-scenes planning to secure the property has been ongoing since 2018, it’s been less than a year since the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy publicly announced its intentions for the land it was then in the process of purchasing from Canton Motorsports, LLC. After confirming a package of grants and private donations, SAHC closed on the property June 5, planning to transfer it to the Town of Canton within a year. The town will then develop it as a recreation park featuring a variety of outdoor activities, with Haywood County partnering in the effort.

On July 29, the town and its consultant, Asheville-based Equinox Environmental, gave the public its first look at what that park might entail once completed, though stressing that all plans are still preliminary and subject to change based on funding and public input.

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PRELIMINARY PLANS ANNOUNCED Initial concepts include site access from U.S. 19/23, where there’s already a big, flat lawn and open space alongside Hominy Creek. This area would host frontcountry recreation amenities such as a pavilion and picnic area, restroom, outdoor classroom, event space and stage, kids bike area and

creek access. A trailhead and parking area would also be located there.

The back part of the property would host more primitive types recreation, accommodating both hikers and mountain bikers with a total of about 18 miles of single-use and multi-use trail. This would include a 1.4-mile bike skills course, 6 miles of hiking-only trail, 6 miles of biking-only trail and 4.5 miles of

multi-use trail, as well as backcountry campsites and an overlook tower or viewing platform. The park would likely allow dogs, but not horses.

In addition, the park will connect to the planned Hellbender Trail, an effort spearheaded by the Land of Sky Regional Council to connect local trails, greenways, multiuse paths and other bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure into one 150-mile trail system touching Haywood, Buncombe, Madison, Transylvania and Henderson counties.

The long-term plan for the Hellbender Trail includes a connection along U.S. 19/23 between Wiggins Road and Chestnut Mountain Road — the Chestnut Mountain property sits right off the highway between these two intersections — where the N.C. Department of Transportation is planning a modernization project that will include bike and pedestrian facilities. The original schedule had called for right-of-way acquisition to begin last month with construction starting in July 2023, but the project was placed on hold in December due to financial constraints, so no definitive timeline is now in place.

“Our goal and one of the drivers behind this project was having that shared-use path along there,” said Sheuer. “Actually, the park and park amenities right there will serve as a great parking location for people who are wanting to come walk that greenway once it’s built.”

Work is already underway to get the park funded and built, with work likely to start in 2021. Sheuer hopes to see the plan fully implemented within the next five years, though that all depends on

F

Preliminary documents from Equinox Environmental sketch out plans for developing Chestnut Mountain as a recreation park. Donated graphic

BENEFIT

Throughout the process, the town has made it clear that public input is both welcome and vital to executing the project successfully. A poll conducted this summer garnered 4,152 responses to questions aimed at determining the public’s top priorities for recreation opportunities and amenities.

“This is the best survey response I’ve had for any planning project in the last 10 years, which is very exciting and lets us know that we are working on something that will serve generations to come,” said Sheuer.

Of the responses, 1,261 — or 30 percent — came from Western North Carolina, with the remaining submissions originating from other parts of North Carolina, other states and even other countries. The geographical spread was exciting to see, said Sheuer, but the town’s main focus will be meeting the needs and desires of Canton, Haywood County and the region as a whole.

When looking at those more local responses, survey results showed an obvious demand for places to hike, trail run and mountain bike. Residents of Canton and Haywood County also listed picnicking and community/group gatherings among their top five desired activities, while respondents from other places in Western North Carolina and beyond instead wanted more places to camp, both backcountry and frontcountry.

Canton and Haywood County residents had similar top five lists of desired amenities, with those lists including restrooms, ADA walking paths, trailhead parking, hiking and biking paths for beginning and intermediate skill levels, picnic pavilions and a bike park suitable for all skill levels. Likewise, respondents from Western North Carolina listed similar desires as those living even further away, with those groups listing mountain bike trails, a bike park for all ages, easy hiking and biking trails, a core central trailhead, trailhead parking and restrooms as their top desires.

Turning those wishes into reality won’t be an easy task, but Mayor Zeb Smathers said the work will be more than worth the result.

“There are challenges with this, but to me personally and for the board, we’re not afraid of this project,” he said. “We’re not shy. There will be challenges, but we feel that we can overcome those because this is a tremendous opportunity and gift for the Town of Canton and Haywood County.”

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Canton’s leaders believe that the park will offer an economic shot in the arm to the town and to the county as a whole, capitalizing on its proximity to Asheville and on the general enthusiasm surrounding the outdoor recreation industry.

“It is our hope that by building a multiuse park that draws people in from our town and county and region as well as the state and beyond, that those kinds of forces will attract outfitters and bike shops and things like that that go hand-inhand with a big multi-use park,” said Sheuer.

During the July 29 meeting, Kim Williams of Equinox told attendees that in North Carolina, outdoor recreation contributes more to the economy than the entire financial services sector, with more than $28 billion annually compared to $24.9 billion from financial services. The industry also has significant importance to the real estate industry. According to a survey from the National Realtor’s Association, said Williams, home buyers are willing to pay 10 percent more for a home near a park or open space with 85 percent of people saying they would buy property closer to a place with outdoor recreation opportunities.

ROBUST SURVEY RESPONSE

August 5-11, 2020

ANTICIPATING ECONOMIC

Williams also highlighted the results of economic impact studies conducted locally. A 2017 study from The Outdoor Alliance showed that the Pisgah National Forest receives 843,000 mountain biking visitors each year, and that those visitors spend $30.2 million annually. A state study in nearby Brevard showed that the town’s greenway attracts 76,000 visitors and $1.6 million in revenue.

outdoors

the size and timing of grant awards. If the money were to materialize immediately, the park could be built in the next two years. The Dogwood Health Trust is funding grant writers to help the town apply for money from the Recreational Trails Program and the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund.

“The award period for RTP will be late fall 2020 and would represent the bulk of the funding for what we are tentatively calling Phase 1,” said Sheuer. “This would get us the backbone of trails: a shared-used climbing trail, backcountry hikingonly loops that would access proposed backcountry campsites/platforms as well as at least one single direction biking-only trail. In addition, this phase would include temporary parking as well as trailhead signage and wayfinding for the property.”

The PARTF award wouldn’t come until fall 2021 and would fund Phase 2 of the project, including permanent infrastructure such as parking, picnic areas, additional trails and an ADA-accessible walking path.

Grants money doesn’t come for free — most grants require that applicants show they’re serious by matching a certain percentage of the grant award. However, SAHC’s decision to gift the land to Canton will lift that burden from the small town’s shoulders. The land trust paid $3 million for the property, and the town can count that value as the required match against any grants it applies for.

“The town and (Haywood) county are incredibly grateful for our partner SAHC,” said Sheuer. “None of this amazing conservation/recreation opportunity would be happening without them.”

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outdoors

Rachel Newcomb has been hired as a conservation outreach associate for Mainspring Conservation Trust.

Hailing from Leicester, Newcomb will lead outreach efforts for Mainspring such as hikes and tours, as well as assist in education programs, land conservation projects and stewardship endeavors in the Hiwassee area.

“Having grown Rachel up in the woods of Newcomb. our farm, I knew Donated photo from a young age that I wanted to make a positive impact in protecting the Western North Carolina region,” she said. “I feel immensely fortunate that I was able to foster a deep connection with my natural environment from a young age, and at Mainspring, I hope to help others strengthen their own bonds to the outdoors.”

She holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies and public policy from Hobart and William Smith Colleges as well as a master’s of environmental policy and management from the University of Adelaide in South Australia. She has served as an AmeriCorps member at a community farm in Knoxville and a food bank in Charleston, South Carolina.

Mainspring conserves Cherokee mound A culturally significant 40-acre property in Macon County has now been conserved, thanks to Mainspring Conservation Trust.

The property, just north of Franklin and south of the Little Tennessee River, is visible from N.C. 28 and includes Watagua Mound and a portion of historic Watagua Town.

One of the ancient Cherokee Middle Towns,

of western North Carolina,” said Dr. Ben Steere, associate professor of anthropology at Western Carolina University and director of the Cherokee Studies program.

“Archaeological and historical research indicate that Cherokee and their ancestors have lived near this site for thousands of years.”

Naturalist William Bartram wrote about

The Watauga Mound site was home to Cherokee people for thousands of years.

Mainspring photo

Watagua Mound is located between Nikwasi and Cowee. Historically, mounds were the center of Cherokee communities, serving as platforms for Cherokee townhouses.

“The Watauga Mound is a very important cultural site in the Cherokee heartland

Watauga from his visit through Western North Carolina in 1775, Steere said, describing it as “an impressive council house rising above nearby houses and gardens.”

The property was acquired in two separate transactions, as the property line ran

right through the mound. The first acquisition came from a real estate listing, while the second came when the landowners heard of the conservation project and chose to sell their portion of the mound as well.

“I am grateful that the landowners were willing to work with Mainspring throughout the year-long process as we put all of the pieces together to purchase the two properties,” said Mainspring Executive Director Jordan Smith.

“This level farmland with exceptional views was pretty prime for development and I am proud this special place is now protected forever.”

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Principal Chief Richard Sneed said the need to protect these mounds is as important as ever.

“Many of the mounds in the Cherokee heartland have been decimated over the last century by intentional destruction, development and agriculture, making the preservation of sites like the Watauga mound of critical importance,” Sneed said. “Through the efforts of many people — including volunteers, Western Carolina University faculty and Mainspring Conservation Trust — the Watauga mound is preserved. We are grateful that this important legacy is being preserved into perpetuity.”

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Smoky Mountain News

August 5-11, 2020

Mainspring hires new employee

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Donated photo

Noland-Proben Team

outdoors

A volunteer contributes to a pile of litter collected during a previous creek cleanup.

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bknoland@beverly-hanks.com • 828.734.5201 cproben@beverly-hanks.com • 828.734.9157

Clean up Allens Creek Gloves, trash bags and trash grabbers will be provided, but participants should wear closed-toed shoes and long pants that can get wet and dirty. Bring a towel.

RSVP by Aug. 7 to Christine O’Brien at christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.

Change of plans for Master Gardener classes The Haywood County Master Gardener course typically offered from January through April each year will move to August through October for 2021.

The rescheduling will allow classes to go outside and instructors to demonstrate techniques that are difficult to do in the wintertime. Instead, the Haywood County Extension Center will offer homeowner classes this winter. Topics are yet to be finalized but may include tree and shrub identification, vegetable gardening and lawns. Online presentations may also be offered this fall via Zoom.

To learn more about becoming a Master Gardener or to request an application, contact mgarticles@charter.net.

Numerous people in North Carolina have reported receiving unrequested shipments of seeds from foreign sources, and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is warning them not to plant any such seeds.

The seeds could be a pathway for introducing invasive species, insects or plant diseases. They are likely being sent as part of an international internet scam known as

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74 N. Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786

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brushing, in which third-party sellers use a person’s address and Amazon information to generate a fake sale and positive review, therefore boosting the product ratings.

Seeds are not the only items used in this scam, as shipments could also include other inexpensive items such as rubber bands or plastic toys.

It is illegal to send such shipments of plant material internationally, and anyone who receives one should save the contents along with all shipping labels and then contact the Plant Industry Division at 800.206.9333 or newpest@ncagr.gov.

@SmokyMtnNews

Smoky Mountain News

Report unsolicited seed shipments

540 Stepping Stone | Waynesville MLS# 3597324 | $657,500 August 5-11, 2020

Help clean up Allens Creek 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, in Waynesville.

Haywood Waterways Association will lead this effort, with the group meeting at the far end of the PetSmart parking lot to clean the stream bank and railroad tracks.

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August 5-11, 2020

Make the strenuous trek from Waterrock Knob to Black Rock during a hike beginning 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, in Jackson County.

Former Great Smoky Mountains National Park Deputy Superintendent Kevin FitzGerald and Haywood County Emergency Management Director Greg

More Parkway facilities reopen The Blue Ridge Parkway has reopened four previously closed campgrounds in North Carolina and Virginia, but some seasonal facilities remain closed due to COVID-19.

Newly reopen facilities are the Linville Falls Campground and Julian Price Park Campground in North Carolina as well as the Rocky Knob Campground and Peaks of Otter Campground in Virginia.

Visitor centers parkwide remain closed, as does the Mt. Pisgah Campground. Other closed areas include the Crabtree Falls Campground and Picnic Area, Doughton Park Campground and Otter Creek Campground.

Updates will be posted at www.nps.gov/blri.

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Smoky Mountain News

EXPIRES: AUGUST 15, 2020

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Shuping will lead this 4.75-mile excursion, featuring an elevation gain of 2,464 feet to a final elevation of 6,033 feet.

The hike is part of an ongoing series offered by Haywood County Recreation and Parks to explore some of the county’s most beautiful areas. Free, with registration required at 828.452.6789.

Presentation to spotlight Panthertown Emmy Award-winning PBS television host and naturalist Patrick McMillan will

Puzzles can be found on page 38 These are only the answers.

discuss Panthertown Valley’s rare Southern Appalachian bog during a webinar offered 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13.

McMillan, host of “Expeditions with Patrick McMillan,” is the Hilliard professor of environmental sustainability at Clemson University and director of the South Carolina Botanical Garden. He will discuss Panthertown’s remarkable mountain wetlands, which represent one of the rarest wetland types in the U.S. Rare plants grow in the bog and on top of the granite domes, creating an environmentally diverse landscape, and the bog supports several statelisted rare and endangered species. It was recently recognized as one of Carolina Wetlands Association’s 2020 Wetland Treasures of the Carolinas.

The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. Limited tickets are available and donations are encouraged. The event is sponsored by Marcia and Steve Shawler.

Register at www.panthertown.org/webinar.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • Blue Ridge Books will hold a Virtual Author Event with Ron Rash at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25. The event will highlight Rash’s new book In the Valley: Stories and a Novella Based on Serena. To attend, purchase the book at Blue Ridge Books by Saturday, Aug 23, provide an email address and Blue Ridge Books will email a link to join the event via zoom. There will be time for questions at the end of the reading. For more information call 828.456.6000 or visit blueridgebooksnc.com.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • Southwestern Community College will hold a drivethrough commencement ceremony for spring and summer 2020 graduates on Saturday, Aug. 8, on the Jackson Campus. The ceremony will run from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. following a traffic pattern leading up to the front of the Balsam Center for diploma cover presentation.

• During the month of August, the Marianna Black Library has teamed up with the American Red Cross to offer several Virtual Red Cross trainings on how to be prepared for a variety of emergency situations. These programs are catered to a variety of ages, though anyone can attend any program. The series of trainings kicks off next week at 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, with Hands Only CPR. The next training will be 2 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 12, called Prepare with Pedro – a program for children grades K-2. Other programs in August will include: The Pillowcase Project (grades 3-6) at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19; Be Red Cross Ready (adult) at 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24; Youth Be Red Cross Ready (grades 7-12) at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26. For more information call the library at 828.488.3030 or visit www.fontanalib.org/brysoncity.

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • The next course offered by Concealed Carry Academy will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22 at Dellwood Baptist Church, 115 Hall Drive. Cost of the course is $100 per person. For registration or more information call 828.356.5454.

A&E

• Presented by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, the 11th season of Concerts on the Creek will return with Dashboard Blue (classic hits) on Friday, Aug. 7, at Bridge Park in Sylva.Performances will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. The tentative schedule is as follows: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8 Bohemian Jean (classic hits); 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8 Darren Nicholson Band (country/bluegrass); 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8 - Eleanor Underhill & Friends (Americana).

• There will be an artist demonstration with Richard Baker from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, at the Haywood County Arts Council in Waynesville. Baker produces landscapes in oil that are studied in realistic detail and

n All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. n To have your item listed email to calendar@smokymountainnews.com radiant light. For more information visit www.haywoodarts.org.

Smoky Mountain News

through Sept. 12 at 1101 Briartown Church Road in Nantahala/Topton. Admission is $75, which includes a tour, brunch, all flowers, supplies and containers to take home your floral masterpiece. To register, click on www.greatbluefarms.com or call 828.508.1502.

• Bryson City Wine Market offers a glass of wine and a Market Plate Monday through Saturday as well as special flight tastings from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every Friday and Saturday.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Shane Meade 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Nantahala Brewing (Sylva) will host Shane Meade 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. Free and open to the public. www.nantahalabrewing.com.

• Elevated Mountain Distilling Company will host the “Western Carolina Writers” songwriters showcase with Nick Mac, Jon Edwards and Jesse Frizsell at 8 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 8. Free and open to the public. www.elevatedmountain.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Tea 4 Three 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8. For more information and a complete schedule of events, click on www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Mountaintop Art & Craft Show (previously the Village Square show) will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 29-30 in downtown Highlands at K-H Founders Park (Pine St.) from. The FREE event features regional potters, jewelers, woodworkers, fine artists, etc. For more info call (828) 787-2021. Sponsored by Highlands Mountaintop Rotary. If the event is canceled due to Covid-19, visit www.mountaintopshow.com for a virtual craft show.

• The annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse will be held Aug. 5 - Sept. 5, at 144 Cove Drive in Highlands.

Admission is $30. For more information, click on www.cashiershistoricalsociety.org/showhouse.

• “Art After Dark” will continue from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, in downtown Waynesville. Each first Friday of the month (May-December), Main Street transforms into an evening of art, music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors. It is free to attend Art After Dark. For more information, visit www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com.

• The Haywood County Arts Council “Artist Member Show” will be held through Aug. 29 at the HCAC Gallery & Gifts showroom in Waynesville. Featuring 42 artists, the show is a celebration of our community, allowing locals to share their great work at the height of the summer season. www.haywoodarts.org.

• Part of the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville, the Kids at HART program will offer classes in acting, directing and musical theatre dance.

Registration is currently underway. Classes will run Sept. 14 through Nov. 16. To register, go to www.harttheatre.org or visit the Kids at HART Facebook page. If you need further information, email Kids at HART at kidsathartwvl@gmail.com.

FOOD & DRINK • The Great Blue Farms Brunch & Blooms will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays from Aug. 8

Outdoors

• Help clean up Allens Creek 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, Aug. 8, in Waynesville. RSVP by Aug. 7 to Christine O’Brien at christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.

• A hike to Frying Pan Tower along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Haywood County will commence at 8 a.m.

Saturday, Aug. 8, led by guides Jennifer Shuping and Betty Green. The hike is free and part of an ongoing series offered by Haywood County Recreation and Parks.

To register, call 828.452.6789.

• Alarka Expeditions has launched the Pandemic Blues Series, which features four different outings into the great outdoors along with the option to purchase a Tshirt. Outings included in the series are: Friday, Aug. 7 Alaska Laurel: A Deep map of a Wild place; Tuesday, Aug. 11 Power of Place; Saturday, Aug. 22 A Literary Field Guide to Southern Appalachia: Readings and Explorations; Tuesday, Sept. 1 Five Miles of Silence. For more information or to register, visit www.alarkaexpeditions.com.

• Emmy Award-winning PBS television host and naturalist Patrick McMillan will discuss Panthertown Valley’s rare Southern Appalachian bog during a webinar offered 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. Limited tickets are available and donations are encouraged. The event is sponsored by Marcia and Steve Shawler. Register at panthertown.org/webinar.

• Make the strenuous trek from Waterrock Knob to Black Rock during a hike beginning 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, in Jackson County. Former Great Smoky Mountains National Park Deputy Superintendent Kevin FitzGerald and Haywood County Emergency Management Director Greg Shuping will lead this 4.75-mile excursion, featuring an elevation gain of 2,464 feet to a final elevation of 6,033 feet. Free, with registration required at 828.452.6789.

HIKING CLUBS

35

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: n n n n

Complete listings of local music scene Regional festivals Art gallery events and openings Complete listings of recreational offerings at health and fitness centers n Civic and social club gatherings • The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 6mile hike, elevation change 520 ft., to Martin's Creek Falls on the Georgia Bartram Trail beginning at Warwoman Dell on Saturday, Aug. 8. The hike is limited to no more than ten people, with four people per car, wearing masks while driving and congregating. Call leader Robin Lurie, 954.632.7270, for reservations.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 3mile hike, elevation change 500 ft., on the Wayah Loop.

The hike will start at Wayah Bald tower, hiking north on the Appalachian Trail to the Bartram Trail, and coming back through the “bald” for a spectacular view. The Club will meet at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 9 at Westgate Plaza in Franklin. The hike is limited to no more than ten people, with four people per car, wearing masks while driving and congregating. Call leader Gail Lehman, 828.524.5298, for reservations.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take moderate-tostrenuous 7-mile hike, elevation change 1000 ft., on the Coweeta Hydrological Lab Center Loop. The Club will meet at Smoky Mountain Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m.

Saturday, Aug. 15. This hike is limited to six people, with four people per car, wearing masks while driving and congregating. Call leader Katharine Brown, 828.421.4178, for reservations.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 3.5 mile hike, elevation change 800 ft., on Ramsey Trail in Tellico Valley. The club will meet at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16 at Westgate Plaza in Franklin. The hike is limited to no more than ten people, with four people per car, wearing masks while driving and congregating. Call leader Jean Hunnicutt, 828.524.5234, for reservations.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a strenuous 8mile hike, with an elevation change of 800 ft., for experienced hikers only, from Kimsey Creek to Deep Gap on Saturday, Aug. 22. The club will meet at 8:30 a.m. Call leader Katharine Brown, 828.421.4178, for reservations and meeting place.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 6mile hike, with an elevation change of 700 ft., to Bee Cove Falls in South Carolina on Saturday, Aug. 29. The hike is limited to no more than ten people, with four people per car, wearing masks while driving and congregating. The club will meet at Cashiers Recreation Park at 10 a.m. Call leaders: Mike and Susan Kettles, 828.743.1079, for reservations.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 6mile hike, with an elevation change of 300 ft., to Straight Fork in Big Cove outside of Cherokee, NC. The Club will meet at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7 at the Bi-Lo parking lot in Franklin. The hike is limited to no more than ten people, with four people per car, wearing masks while driving and congregating. Call leader Katharine Brown, 828.421.4178, for reservations.

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August 5-11, 2020

Employment

WEATHERIZATION SPECIALIST - PT Mountain Projects Inc. is currently accepting applications for a parttime Weatherization Specialist in Haywood County. Must have experience with weatherization, rehab, general carpentry, plumbing and electrical experience in the construction industry is needed. HS diploma or GED required. Please apply at www.mountainprojects.org EOE/AA

ROTATING SUBSTITUTE TEACHER Haywood & Jackson Candidates must have a high school diploma/ GED, Child Care Credentials I & II, be able to assume the responsibilities of teacher when absent, work well with all staff members, have good judgment/problem VROYLQJ VNLOOV DQG WKH ÀH[ibility to work with diverse families. Computer skills and 2 yrs. experience in child care preferred. This is a 10 ½ month posiWLRQ Z EHQH¿WV 3OHDVH apply at www.mountainprojects.org EOE/ AA Head Start Teacher Assistant Kneedler Child Development WCU Must have an AA Degree in Early Childhood Education. Also required are good judgment/problem solving skills, and the ability to work well with coworkers, parents, and children. Two years early childhood experience is preferred. Please apply by visiting our website www.mountainprojects. org. EOE/AA.

HELP WANTED Detail Doctor is hiring for part time work, must have valid drivers license. (828) 736-1608

GREENSVILLE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS In Emporia, VA is looking for committed educators in the following areas: Secondary Math, Earth Science, English, and History, Middle School Math and English, Elementary Education, and Special Education. Must be eligible for state cerWL¿FDWLRQ &RQWDFW 3DLJH Crewe, pcrewe@gcps1. com or 434-634-3748, or visit www.gcps1.com WORK FROM ANYWHERE You have an internet connection? 13 positions available. Start as soon as today. As simple as checking your email.

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Legal Notices INVITATION TO BID, Mountain Projects Inc is requesting bids for the construction of two homes to be built in the Camp Bethel Inc development, Jonathan Creek Township, Haywood County, NC. Bids will be considered in two ways: Either 1: General Contractors interested in building one or both projects from start to ÂżQLVK RU &RQWUDFWRUV interested in bidding on individual aspects of the project (Framing, 5RRÂżQJ 3OXPELQJ (OHFtrical, HVAC, etc) with work being overseen by Mountain Projects Inc. as the General Contractor.

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37

SUPER

CROSSWORD

GOOD-LOOKING BEGINNERS ACROSS 1 Farm output 5 Mosey along 10 Father 14 Verbal tests 19 Despise 20 Slow -- (Asian primate) 21 Spoil 22 Bo of "Bolero" 23 Magnetic pull 26 Certain Arab 27 Place for online small talk 28 Author Dinesen 29 One of Nixon's daughters 30 Hack down 31 Crow cry 32 Clear skies and 70 degrees, say 35 Smell -- (suspect something) 37 Novelist Zora -- Hurston 39 Stopover site 40 Santa Fe-to-Denver dir.

41 Horned viper 44 Annex 45 Sanctify with oil 48 SFO posting 49 What a happy couple makes together 54 Suffix with journal 56 Liberal arts subj.

57 With 90-Down, totally mistaken 58 Creepy quality 60 Rented living spaces: Abbr.

64 Screening airport org.

65 Appear to be 67 Fit snugly 68 Target rival

69 72 74 75 79 80 81 82 84 85 86 88 91 94 96 97 98 99 100 102 106

111 114 115 116 117 119 120 123 124 125 126 127 128

Notions that an imp might get Habanero, for one Pays mind to Infant bed Brand of nonstick cookware Org. for drs.

Admin. aide Like rhythmic verse Mag bigwigs Thither Victory sign Big sum given for finding a lost pet, perhaps Conan's TV home Understood by very few Roth -Uvea's organ Granola tidbit "Law & Order" spinoff, informally Italian port Low pair in poker It's painted to make something seem better than it is A Stooge Inclined (to) Oscar winner Helen Emu relative Food symbolizing America Ed with Emmys Equitable market practices Thieve News bit Brother, in Paris Slaving away Not on time Shot callers

129 130

Mended Pot tops

DOWN 1 Ballroom dance 2 Quite 3 Ontario city 4 Saucy 5 Big maker of food cans 6 Label for the Jackson 5 7 Hat's edge 8 Actress Tyler 9 Suffix with journal 10 Non-poetry 11 Of hearing 12 Finicky 13 Ending for meth14 Scenting substances 15 Send, as payment 16 Weaver of mythology 17 Lax 18 Place for downhillers 24 Oval part 25 Bill depicting Lincoln 29 Lendl's sport 32 Soup scoop 33 Fathers, informally 34 Nintendo console 36 Greek "T" 38 Water, to Yves 42 Condition of equilibrium 43 Heaped up 45 Sale proviso 46 Fraction of about 11% 47 Forest cat 49 "You --!" ("Oh yeah!")

50 Comes after as a result 51 Swirly marbles 52 Shorn wool 53 Suffix with script 55 Pack tightly

59 61 62 63 66 68 70 71 73 76 77 78 82 83 87 89 90 91 92 93 95 100 101 103 104 105 107 108 109 110 112 113 117 118 120 121 122

Fixed price Tropical fruit Aftershock Hair bit Actress Plimpton Actor Grammer 1999 Ron Howard satire Clear kitchen wrap Father, in Madrid Have supper PC readout of a sort Not as tough "Quo Vadis" director -LeRoy TV producer Michaels Like trade winds China's -- Zedong See 57-Across Certain rigging support Coffee shop employee Less lax Quart fourth Avocado dip, for short Measure of current flow American elk Sedating substance Blood vessel openers Walk (on) Furious Part of CEO Tenures Decided Part of REO Highest point Plus others: Abbr.

Pine relative A bit askew Hosp. body scan

ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

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38

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August 5-11, 2020

WNC MarketPlace

The comeback of the turkey a real success Editor’s note: This article first appeared in an August 2006 edition of The Smoky Mountain News.

T

George Ellison

he come back of the wild turkey in the southern mountains in recent years is one of the notable success stories in wildlife restoration. Thirty or so years ago, the sighting of a flock of wild turkeys was a rarity.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the National Wild Turkey Federation and its local chapters, working in conjunction with federal Columnist and state wildlife agencies, such sightings — while always memorable — have become rather commonplace.

The demise of the great bird in the face of over hunting and habitat destruction is a part of the story that’s been recited many times in wildlife publications. Another part of the historical record that’s been overlooked, however, is body of lore having to do with rituals and hunting methods of the ancient Cherokees.

The turkey population at the time of European contact has been estimated at 10 million birds. The bird was especially plen-

BACK THEN tiful in what became the southeastern United States. In the region presently occupied by state of Georgia, it has been estimated that the population exceeded 500,000 birds. Flocks numbering several hundred turkeys were commonly reported by early observers.

Deer and turkey were the favorite game animals of the Cherokees. They knew the turkey as “gvna” (or sometimes “duleji”), which means “kernels’ — a reference to the bird’s red throat appendage that has a kernel-like texture. Another name applied only to male gobblers was “galagina” — which is glossed as “buck” — in association with the male deer. That the turkey was the most important of the avian fauna hunted by the Cherokees was clearly symbolized by its having led all the other wild birds out of the earth in their creation story depicting the origin of game and corn.

According to their mythology, the bird acquired many of its distinctive attributes as a result of specific incidents. The black “beard” that mature males have on their breasts is “actually” a scalp that the ancestral wild turkey stole from the ancestral terrapin. One day the bird met the turtle coming home from a war with a fresh scalp hanging from its neck.

“That scalp doesn’t look right on you,”

the turkey said. “Your neck is too short and low down to wear it that way. Let me show you.”

After putting the scalp around its own neck, the turkey “kept on walking ... and then broke into a run,” escaping with the scalp, which, in time, became breast feathers. But before the turkey made his escape, he was shot in the legs with cane splints by the irate terrapin. While eating a drumstick, have you ever noticed the numerous splintered, seemingly useless bones? Now you know how they got there.

The grouse obtained its fine collar of turkey-like feathers in exchange for giving the larger bird voice lessons.

“I’ll stand on this hollow log, and when I give the signal by tapping on it, you must halloo as loudly as you can,” instructed the grouse.

But, alas, when the grouse suddenly drummed on the log, the turkey was so startled it couldn’t shout loudly. What came out instead was a surprised “gobble, gobble, gobble.” That”s why, whenever the male hears a sudden noise in the woods, he can only gobble.

The wild turkey became an essential element in the performance of major Cherokee ceremonies. Its meat was consumed during annual religious festivals. Large turkey-feather fans were waved over each new chief at his inauguration ceremony. Beautiful capes

were made for important events from turkey feathers sewn like overlapping shingles onto skins or cloth (an example of this type of garment is on display at The Museum of the Cherokee Indian in Cherokee). Cockspurs were fastened to warrior’s moccasins and the long stems on their war pipes.

The Cherokee turkey dance mimicked the movements of both the hunter and the turkey, no doubt enacted on the theory that if you know how a bird feels and moves you have a better chance of anticipating its actions in the woods. Various formulas were sung before the hunt so as to exert magical power over the bird and make it come forth from cover. Not surprisingly, all of the recorded formulas had to do with observing turkeys in open, upland coves while the birds scratched in the leaf litter. In other words, the cautious birds would hopefully be located out in the open where they could readily be stalked or ambushed. Try singing this little formula (softly) the next time you go looking for a wild turkey: We are living in one cove, a flat and level cove.

We are scratching, spreading leaves, in just one cove.

Tail feathers spreading first one side, then the other.

(George Ellison is a writer and naturalist who lives in Bryson City. info@georgeellison.com.)

August 5-11, 2020

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Smoky Mountain News August 5-11, 2020