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November 11-17, 2015 Vol. 17 Iss. 24

Contentious recycling clearinghouse nixed Page 4 Macon County bus driver showered with honors Page 20

From Our Family To Yours,

CONTENTS

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On the Cover: Veterans Day is a time set aside each year to honor the people who have put their lives on the line to protect the freedom of others. Each veteran, whether they served in World War II or Iraq, have a different story to tell. This year, a female veteran and one Cherokee tribal elder share their experiences of serving in WWII while leaders of veteran organizations discuss the challenges of staying relevant to younger generations of service men and women.

(On the cover) Jody Keller with Sons of the American Legion in Haywood County performs Taps as part of the military honors during the burial of a WWII veteran over the weekend. (Page 6) Becky Johnson photo

News Recycling clearinghouse nixed in Haywood ............................................................4 Candidates run for District 118 House seat ............................................................5 Jackson looks to future government space needs ..............................................12 Franklin homeless ministry seeks new home ........................................................14 Bryson City mayor keeps his seat ............................................................................16 Sylva election comes down to coin toss ................................................................17 Jackson passes revised steep slope ordinance ..................................................18 Jackson moves forward with department changes ..............................................19 Macon bus driver showered with honors ..............................................................20

Opinion In the end, Haywood leaders make the right call ..................................................24

A&E Cruisin’ the road of creativity ......................................................................................28

Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

Hikers reflect on Wilderness Society challenge ..................................................40

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Smoky Mountain News

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news

Recycling clearinghouse nixed in Haywood

BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER controversial proposal to sell a 55-acre tract in a county-owned industrial park near Canton to a private recycling sorting plant is dead.

A start-up company behind the recycling clearinghouse pulled its proposal to buy the property this week amid fierce public backlash and mounting reservations by county commissioners.

“This will bring this matter to a close,” said Commissioner Mark Swanger in a press release issued Monday.

The idea had drawn sharp criticism from the public, who questioned the merit of selling off property in the county-owned industrial park in exchange for a meager number of lower-paying jobs in the undesirable waste handling industry.

Commissioners didn’t entirely agree with the assessment. Some of the opponents’ claims were based on rampant misinformation spread by neighbors with a “not-in-mybackyard” motive to defeat the plant.

“They went around the neighborhood telling people it would be an incinerator, a waste dump, a landfill. It’s not. This is a ‘green’ industry with ‘green’ jobs,” said Commissioner Kevin Ensley. “It upsets me they upset their neighbors with something that isn’t true.”

Nonetheless county commissioners came under fire during two packed public hearings on the issue. The grassroots campaign — waged through old-fashioned community meetings and online organizing through social media — is at least partly credited with defeating the proposal.

“On paper initially it looked like a great opportunity for our county, but it became obvious that people didn’t want it and we

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

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Kirkpatrick said. listened,” said Commissioner Mike Sorrells.

At least some opponents say they won’t “If you’d had half the people waving the flag hold that against the commissioners. for it, that would have been another thing, “I don’t think people will hold it against but that didn’t happen. It comes down to them for considering it. They were trying to ‘Do you push something down people’s throat or do you step back?’ We are elected to represent the people and it was obvious they didn’t want it.”

Denny King, an opponent to the plan, credited the community with rolling up its sleeves to fight it.

“I am absolutely Stiff opposition to a recycling sorting plant, witnessed by the large and amazed at how people vocal crowds at public hearings, contributed to the proposal’s demise. came together Becky Johnson photo and worked bring jobs in and make money for the countogether and did a ton of research,” said ty, but then started looking in to it more,” King, who helped lead the opposition movement with his wife Debbie. “The community said Kelly Brookshire, a mom who spoke at one of the public hearings. “I’ve had ideas said we can’t take a chance on this. Our way of life could be harmed by it. I appreciate the before that I thought was the best idea I have ever had and then got someone else’s percommissioners listening to us and I think spective and said ‘woah, OK, that’s not such they did listen and I am thankful for that.”

Commissioner Kirk Kirkpatrick said they a good idea.’”

Brookshire said she is pleasantly surwere obligated to explore economic developprised, however, that their government leadment opportunities for the county. ers “did the right thing.”

“It is a priority of ours to bring in indusThe biggest deal killer for the proposal try. I don’t think we would have done our was the 11th-hour revelation that the recyjob if we had refused to consider it,”

cling clearinghouse would be exempt from paying county property taxes.

“The tax issue really throwed us a curve,” Sorrells said.

County officials had hailed anticipated property tax revenue of $50,000 to $100,000 a year as one of the major upsides to the project.

Without the consolation prize of property tax revenue — which could have provided a recurring and reliable stream of revenue for economic development initiatives for years to come — the proposal was harder to justify.

“I was concerned about the number of jobs from the get go but the big issue was the loss of tax revenue,” Kirkpatrick said. “I want to make it clear that is the reason in probability it may not have been approved.”

While neighbors complained about increased truck traffic, smelly odors, noise, and rumors of toxic waste, Kirkpatrick saw those as red herrings. The recycling sorting facility would have been entirely enclosed, and based on others like it, noise and odor was a non-issue to him.

“I did not have a problem with the traffic. I didn’t think it would be harmful to the environment. I thought it would be a good fit for the industrial park except for not being quite as many jobs as we’d like,” Kirkpatrick said.

Ensley said he philosophically supported the concept of the recycling facility, but the property tax exemption would have made it a tough vote for him.

“I don’t know how I would have voted, honestly. I guess I would have had to use my business sense in that the county wasn’t getting any tax revenue,” Ensley said.

On the flip side, the fact the state passed a law in 2008

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Three compete for House seat

intently to the public, to the community, and it became very clear to me that we just aren’t there,” said Sorrells.

But for Ensley, one of Haywood County’s most stalwart recyclers, it’s something society should get on board with. He embraced a life shift several years ago from tossing most of his waste to recycling nearly everything.

“I cut my number of trash from six bags a week to one or two bags a week going to the landfill. I even recycle toilet paper rolls.

It is really just changing the way you dispose of your trash,” Ensley said.

But there’s a missing piece of the puzzle: a commodity market for recyclables at the end of the line. And that’s what the private recycling sorting facility offered.

“It is a great idea. It is very much needed,” Ensley said.

Kirkpatrick said while the county won’t be selling its land in the industrial park to the venture, maybe there would be a feasible location for it elsewhere on private land.

“I think it would be beneficial somewhere in the county,” Kirkpatrick said.

As for the industrial park site, the county isn’t keen to let it lie fallow in the name of protecting the community’s rural character.

Swanger said the county will continue “to aggressively market the Beaverdam Industrial Park in an effort to create jobs for Haywood County.”

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What’s the difference between organic and non-gmo (not genetically engineered)?

I frequently hear from people who believe that there are various health attributes associated with products that are labeled “organic” or “non-gmo” but this is not the case nor is it the intent of those labels. Let’s look at some facts: ■ ORGANIC - The USDA certified organic label is overseen by the US government through the Department of Agriculture for the certified organic program and is an agricultural certification for produce and raw, fresh items and ingredients in processed products. It is important to remember that “organic” does not imply a product has nutritional superiority and it has nothing to do with food safety. www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/nop (information on the National Organic Program).

Organic means: “...a food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used.”

Manufacturers, producers and suppliers must apply to the USDA for a USDA organic seal. The approval process for organic certification involves submission of information and a site visit. The cost can range $200-1500. www.quicklabel.com/blog/2010/10/how-to-get-a-certified-organicproduct-label-in-the-usa/. A company that knowingly uses the organic seal for a product that is not organic can be fined up to $11,000 per violation. www.ams.usda.gov/rulesregulations/organic/organic-seal ■ NON-GMO - The non-gmo project seal program is run by the Non-GMO Project, not affiliated with the US government, and it is not an organic certification program . Some companies may use other verbage such as “gmo-free” or “non-gmo” on their labels as there is no legal or governmental definition or standards for use of this term.

The Non-GMO Project www.nongmoproject.org/about/ is a 501(c)3 non-profit started by retailers and members of the natural foods and organic industry www.nongmoproject.org/productverification/ that charges a fee for companies to verify that products and ingredients are not from genetically engineered seeds and that products can be traced and tested at “critical control points”.

Once the company is verified they are licensed to use the “Non-GMO Project” seal.

According to Non-GMO project website the cost is “customized” www.nongmoproject.org/product-verification/process/ but reports indicate that costs to the farmer or brand can be several thousand dollars.

What’s the bottom line?: If you purchase products that are USDA certified organic or contain ingredients that are USDA certified organic, these by definition are “non-GMO”.

Smoky Mountain News

exempting recycling facilities from property taxes is telling, Ensley said. It shows recycling is an industry the state wants to see more of and is offering incentives to encourage them.

“As time goes on we will see much more of this. When we looked at this, we thought this could be a good thing for Haywood County to be on the forefront of,” Ensley said.

Opponents to the plan questioned how trucking in hundreds of tons of waste to be sorted on automated machinery was a green industry.

“We know we need jobs in this county but we just believe we need clean jobs,” King said.

As part of the county’s vetting process of the proposal, Sorrells and Ensley took a trip to Kansas to see a recycling sorting facility in action that uses the same kind of equipment as the one that was proposed here.

They were both impressed.

It had none of the negative connotations — dirty, smelly, noisy, gross — that opponents had feared it would.

Sorrells said he wondered if the success of the recycling sorting plant in Kansas could have been replicated here, however.

To be viable, the plant needs a robust stream of recyclables to feed it, and Sorrells didn’t know if the people here would have the buy-in to start recycling more.

“When we came back, I listened very

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November 11-17, 2015

their top priorities is public education. They both expressed concern about the continuing cuts that are impacting the classroom.

“I believe our schools are full of amazing teachers that continue to fight for our kids,” Schandevel said in a press release. “Now is the time to start paying them like the professionals they are and give them the resources they need to properly educate our students.”

Steen said he believes education should become a top priority for North Carolina again. When he was a county commissioner in 1986, he said the state was dead last in education and he doesn’t want to see that happen again.

“In the past, North Carolina stood out as a leader and innovator in public education,” he said. “However, in the past four years we have seen defunding and a downward spiral of financial support for education. Ensuring that our children in the mountains have access to great public schools should not be a partisan issue.”

Steen said he and Schandevel’s agendas probably weren’t too far apart — they’re goals are funding public education and improving the economy. Steen said he isn’t so much focused on the primary as he is the general election. He said he believes he has the voter support in Madison and Yancey and will work hard to campaign in Haywood County as well.

“I’m looking at the general election, and I think I can beat Michele Presnell,” he said.

“It’s going to take a super effort to unseat Presnell.”

news

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR Rep. Michele Presnell, R-Burnsville, has announced her intentions to run for a third term, but two Democrats have stepped up to challenge her for the chance to represent the 118th District of North Carolina.

Rhonda Cole Schandevel, a Haywood County School Board member, announced earlier this month she would make a run for the district, which includes Madison, Yancey and parts of Haywood County. The Canton resident has served on the school board since 2012 and is a registered dental hygienist at Smoky Mountain Dentistry.

Madison County resident Reese Steen announced his candidacy last week. Steen is a former three-term Madison County commissioner and has worked as a dentist in the district for more than 40 years.

The General Assembly moved the primary election from May to March, so Schandevel and Steen will square off for the Democratic nomination on March 15, 2016, unless another candidate enters the race.

The official filing period to run for state office is from Dec. 1 to Dec. 21.

In a press release announcing her third run, Presnell cited her experience as a small business owner and a former Yancey County commissioner. She described herself as a pro-life advocate, a conservative lifelong Republican and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association with a concealed carry permit.

Schandevel and Steen both say one of

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Veterans’ groups struggle for relevancy with younger generation of servicemen

BY B ECKY JOHNSON STAFF WRITER hen Bobby Rathbone came home from Vietnam over 40 years ago, joining a veterans group was the last thing on his mind. Drafted into war, fighting in Vietnam was hardly something to celebrate or wear on his sleeve.

“We wasn’t treated all that well. Nobody respected or appreciated anything we’d done,” Rathbone recalled. “I had no interest at all in nothing other than trying to get through life the best that I could.”

He got a factory job, got married and had kids, but always felt something was missing.

He finally found solace through the camaraderie of fellow veterans at the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post in Waynesville.

“I realized it was more than just a place to go and drink and shoot the bull with old comrades. We don’t just sit around and tell war tales,” Rathbone said.

Now, as his generation of veterans ages, he’s concerned by declining membership in groups like the VFW and American Legion.

“It is really, really hard to recruit these newer Iraq and Afghanistan veterans,” said Rathbone, the commander of the Waynesville VFW post. “About the only place you see them is when you have an appointment at the VA. When I see those guys it brings back so many memories. They are in their own little world. It is hard to talk to them. I think they feel the same way I did when I came back. I just wanted to be left alone.”

The American Legion membership has declined from 3.1 million in 1993 to 2.4 million in 2013. The VFW saw a similar drop over the same two decades from 2.2 million to 1.4 million.

“They will all tell you the same thing — they are really having trouble getting younger people in. Membership is dwindling nationally and locally,” said Ron Rookstool, a member of both the American Legion and VFW in Waynesville. “They don’t have that many new veterans. They just aren’t interested.”

What to do about it and what’s causing it is hard to say.

The most obvious reason: veterans from World War II and the Korean War that once anchored the American Legion and VFW are dying.

“We have lost a lot of WWII veterans and are losing a lot of Korean veterans,” Rookstool said.

Vietnam veterans now comprise the majority of members, but the next decade is poised to take a huge toll on their numbers.

Who will replace them is a major cause for concern in the veterans’ service organizations.

Around 16 million Americans served in WWII — 12 percent of the population.

There were 5 million in the Korean War and 6 8 million during Vietnam.

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

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An honor guard comprised of VFW and American Legion members performs military honors for a World War II vet laid to rest in Haywood County last weekend. The honor guard provides military funeral honors — including a three-volley rifle fire and Taps — at no charge for any veteran whose family requests it. Becky Johnson photo

Compare that to the 2.5 million who’ve served in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001. Not only are there fewer of them, they weren’t drafted from the general population, aside from the call up of National Guard troops.

All that equates to a smaller pool of new veterans to draw from in small town America.

But that isn’t the only challenge. The American Legion and VFW need to recreate their image to remain relevant and show they are more than just a dim smoky bar with worn pool tables and bingo nights.

“I heard it was just a place to go and get drunk. But I am here to tell you that is not true,” Rathbone said.

Rookstool agreed they have to break past the reputation.

“Primarily the Legion and VFW are seen as a place to go drink,” Rookstool said.

But gathering around the bar isn’t the only mingling they do. The American Legion post opens at 8 a.m. for coffee and biscuits,

with a full breakfast buffet on Saturdays.

Rookstool said for him, the groups are about brotherhood.

“I like to be around other veterans. We have a lot in common. It is a unique situation serving with people from all walks of life, getting to know them, the friendships you form,” Rookstool said.

Rick Strubeck, the commander of the American Legion post in Waynesville, shared a commonly held theory for why the younger veterans don’t join.

“It is a different world now than when I first got out of the service. Generally both parents work. Veterans seem to only have time to raise a family,” Strubeck said.

Between work, kids and home life, there’s no time for hobbies or outside interests it seems, Strubeck said. It’s the same reason participation is down nationwide in everything from golf country clubs to volunteer fire departments.

But it’s just a guess.

“I can’t tell you the reason why younger vets aren’t joining these groups,” Strubeck said.

The Maggie Valley VFW post has made in-roads in new membership with a bar and grill that caters to a public clientele, not just members. It has a robust lineup of bands and karaoke nights that appeal to a younger set — at least comparatively, given the average age of VFW members nationally is 70 — and have an active Facebook page. It’s a relatively new post, formed by members who split off from the Waynesville VFW post.

That raises another point, however. The sheer number of competing veteran’s service organizations doesn’t help their viability. In Haywood County alone there’s an American Legion post, two VFW posts, plus active groups of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Disabled Veterans, Marine Corps League and the Retired Officers Association.

“We probably have too many of them really,” said Gary Boyer, a member of the VFW in Waynesville.

Boyer said the groups would be more financially viable if they merged, but it begs the question — which one would close down its post.

“I don’t know if they would ever yield and think about consolidating. People get kind of tribal,” Boyer said.

Whether there’s enough members to go

S EE VETERANS, PAGE 9

Military icons in our midst news

BY B ECKY JOHNSON • STAFF WRITER

Three military relics on display in the mountains honor the nation’s long and fabled history of duty and service to country.

These stoic sentinels transcend generations, transporting old war veterans back in time to the battlefields of their youth and kindling the first twinges of patriotism in the kids who scramble around on them.

For those who pass by them every day, they’ve become timeworn landmarks, a fixture of the local landscape, but it’s rare to have real military pieces of this caliber stationed in a small community for public exhibition.

Cherokee VFW hopes to restore WWII-era tank

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The tank

The Steve Youngdeer post of the American Legion hopes to restore the old tank with help from the U.S. Brotherhood of Tankers. Becky Johnson photo

WHAT: A Vietnam-era Huey helicopter WHERE: Waynesville, in front of the VFW on Miller Street above Frog Level

Vietnam-era Huey like ‘time machine’ for mechanic ary Boyer did a double take when he caught the silhouette of helicopter blades out of the corner of his eye while driving through downtown Waynesville a couple years ago.

He pulled a U-turn, doubled-back and turned up an obscure side street where he came face-to-face with his maker — a

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Vietnam-era Huey sitting outside the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Frog Level.

“These are icons,” Boyer said. “When you think of the ‘60s you think of Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles, but the picture is not complete until you see that Huey.

Anyone who served in Vietnam, I don’t care what your job was, you knew when a Huey came. It had a voice of its own.”

Boyer noticed immediately that this aging Huey needed help.

“It was getting water in it and it needed to be taken care of, but I don’t think people realized the damage that was going on,” Boyer said. “It was time to do something. It

just couldn’t be put off any more.”

The languishing Huey on the VFW’s doorstep was a diamond in the rough, a rare bird that could technically be made air-worthy again with enough time and money.

“It is one of the few of these old Hueys around that has just about everything on it,” Boyer said, from the instrument gauges to controls to fuel lines. “But it needed attention, and they didn’t have anyone with any background they could fall back on to start a restoration process.”

Boyer was made for the job, however. He was a helicopter mechanic in Vietnam, and still knew every inch of the Huey.

“I can put these things together in my sleep,” Boyer said.

The chopper has been parked in front of the Waynesville VFW for at least two decades, but it’s on a side street and Boyer, who lives in Sylva, never knew about it.

“It was just a fluke I happened to drive by that day,” Boyer said.

Boyer promptly joined the VFW and soon had the keys.

“My primary goal to be part of the VFW was to take care of the helicopter,” Boyer said.

He has been plugging away at the restoration process for a year-and-a-half.

Sometimes, when he’s working alone in the Huey’s belly, people and places long since forgotten come back to him.

“It is a time machine. You can close your eyes and take yourself back,” Boyer said.

Smoky Mountain News

WHAT: A Cold Warera tank WHERE: Cherokee, between tribal council and the Cherokee Fairgrounds on Tsali Boulevard.

The chopper

November 11-17, 2015

aul Crowley is probably best known for his milkshakes and splits at Soda Pop’s Ice Cream Parlor in Bryson City, but here’s a little known fact: he’s the only guy in Western North Carolina with the keys to an armored tank.

A Cold War-era tank acquired by Cherokee’s American Legion post — one of the last M60A3s ever made — has been a signature landmark in Cherokee for two decades. For a while, it was still drivable.

Paul Crowley “After 9/11, Homeland Security came out and had to decommission it to where it could not run,” Crowley said.

Now, the only way to move the 63-ton tank — whose engine parts were welded together — is to tow it, and that’s no small feat.

“It takes a lot to move it,” Crowley said.

It was once prominently showcased in front of the tribal council house, but for years it’s been languishing in obscurity behind the Cherokee Fairgrounds.

“It is deteriorating,” Crowley said. “It has moss and weeds growing up on it and it looks really terrible.”

Its sides are covered in lichen, its cracks caked with fallen leaves and its treads sunk in the dirt.

Crowley is a member of the Steve Youngdeer American Legion in Cherokee, which has launched a campaign to restore the tank and hopefully relocate it to a spot where it can be more easily viewed and appreciated by the public.

“It is a major part of our military history,” Crowley said. It’s a unique claim to fame to have one of these icons.

“As far as a tank just sitting out there for the public to see, it is rare,” Crowley said.

The tank never saw active duty. Cherokee landed it specifically for public display when the army phased out the tank line in 1997 and moved up to a new model.

“They had no use for those last ones coming off the line,” Crowley said. “It was transported straight to Cherokee for static display.”

The tank is a trip down memory lane for any veteran who’s ever served in one.

Crowley served in active duty in a tank patrolling the border of West Germany and Czechoslovakia during the Cold War and hopes the tank in Cherokee can serve as a living artifact of the nation’s military history for generations to come.

“It was a major part of my life,” said Crowley. “Crew men are tasked to their vehicles.

Tanks are special to tank people because it becomes your home and the crew is your family.

S EE CHOPPER, PAGE 9 7

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CHOPPER, CONTINUED FROM 7

“Anyone who served in Vietnam, I don’t care what your job was, you knew when a Huey came. It had a voice of its own.”

VETERANS, CONTINUED FROM 6 around to support both a VFW and an American Legion in Waynesville in the future remains to be seen, however.

“To me what would make sense would be to combine the two into one,” Rookstool said.

About half the 200 to 250 members in both the American Legion and VFW in Haywood County are already members of both, Rookstool said.

Warren Dupree with the Steve Youngdeer American Legion Post in Cherokee holds out hope that increasing membership is like anything else in the military.

“It’s hurry up and wait,” said Dupree.

“Younger veterans have full-time jobs and

— Gary Boyer

When people see him with the doors of the helicopter flung open, surrounded by a bucket of tools, oil cloths and paint cans, they stop to see what’s up, peek their head in and sometimes offer to help.

With the interior nearly complete, he’s about to need it — “particularly when we get up on those rotor blades,” he said.

So far, Boyer’s been footing the bill himself. But he hopes to find money to help put a roof over the helicopter once it’s restored, with a nice pavilion and viewing platform of some sort.

Anyone interested in helping or donating can contact Boyer at DDhuey69@gmail.com.

they have families to take care of. They don’t have the time. As they grow older, they will.”

Dupree said he too is concerned that younger members aren’t joining the American Legion quickly enough to replace older members dying off.

“But we should temper that concern,” Dupree said.

Dupree served in Vietnam and Desert Storm, but several years passed before he finally joined the Legion.

“You are so burnt out on the military structure. The military is a highly disciplined, extremely regimented organization and it can take its toll. So when you separate you want to distance yourself as far away from that as possible,” Dupree said. “But over time, in the years that follow, you come to see you really miss the camaraderie.”

The American Legion in Cherokee is one of the few veteran’s groups that doesn’t have to overcome the stigma of a drinking club. Like the rest of Cherokee, it’s dry.

“We have a lot of veterans from outside the area who come and visit the post when they are on vacation here and they want to know where the canteen is — that’s what they refer to as the bar,” Dupree said. “But we don’t get up at 7 o’clock in the morning and pop the top on a beer can or take a drag.”

Members of the veterans’ groups stress their mission of service, part of the fabric of life that would leave a void in the community if they dried up. They sponsor baseball teams, hold fundraisers for community causes, have honor guards that provide graveside military honors at veter-

A flag drapes the coffin of WWII veteran Charlie Clement, 95, during his funeral service last weekend at Garrett Hillcrest Memorial Park in Haywood County. Clement served in Pacific as an airplane mechanic for the B-24 bomber. Of the 16 million Americans who served in WWII, an estimated 845,000 are still living. Becky Johnson photo steeped in the special brand of camaraderie only those who have served in the military can understand.

“You got people with common interests and common experiences and it is sort of a brotherhood you couldn’t get anywhere else. That bond will never go away,” Boyer said.

Eventually, the younger veterans will seek out that element that’s been missing in their life.

“It takes us a few years to realize and grasp that,” Dupree said. “As veterans we will think back and say ‘I would really like to get back into that.’”

Smoky Mountain News

WHAT: WWII anti-aircraft gun WHERE: Clyde, in the heart of downtown on the town square and pedestrian plaza, along U.S. Business 19.

— Rick Strubeck, Waynesville

November 11-17, 2015

The ‘Big Gun’

“It is a different world now ... Generally both parents work. Veterans seem to only have time to raise a family.”

ans’ funerals, and provide a support system for older veterans.

Strubeck said the veterans’ groups also play a valuable role lobbying for veterans’ issues. He pointed to the decades-long uphill battle over Agent Orange, the toxic chemical used in Vietnam with lasting health repercussions for millions of veterans.

“At first they wouldn’t recognize that it caused any kind of problems. They refused to accept any responsibility that it did any damage at all,” Strubeck said. “They are finally recognizing that Vietnam vets were poisoned with that shit.”

Strubeck has fought his own health battle directly tied to Agent Orange from his year of exposure during Vietnam ground combat. This summer, more than 100 veterans in the region attended an Agent Orange outreach program hosted by the American Legion post in Cherokee to advise Vietnam vets of the growing list of health problems now linked to Agent Orange — and now thankfully covered through VA benefits.

“There is progress. There might be a light at the end of the tunnel,” Strubeck said.

Strubeck credits veterans groups for moving the needle — not just on Agent Orange but a host of veterans’ issues and policies. Their lobbying clout depends on their membership ranks, however.

If the VFW and American Legion can find a way to prove their mettle with the next generation, it will no doubt be

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Vietnam was the first war waged on the might of helicopters, a new breed of cavalry.

“In WWII and Korea, you are loaded up on trucks and rode in tanks. In Vietnam it was impossible to take ground transport anywhere.

There just weren’t the roads,” Boyer said.

It was a brazen undertaking, to craft an all-new military tactic where battlefields weren’t clearly delineated.

“There was no front line. Anytime you set down outside an LZ (landing zone), you could get whacked — you weren’t welcome, let’s put it that way,” Boyer said.

Helicopter-based warfare took legions of helicopter maintenance crews, and Boyer was acutely aware of the lives that hinged on the job he did in the mechanics bay.

“A flying machine in war zones is a risky proposition,” Boyer said. “There was no margin for error. There was no compromise on maintenance. It was all or nothing. These helicopters needed constant attention and constant maintenance. You could not let something go out questionable.”

Boyer wasn’t just a ground mechanic. He was constantly in the air. Test flights were a daily part of the repair and maintenance regimen — the mechanics took up every helicopter they tinkered on. He also rode on missions — doubling as a door gunner — in case the Huey went down and a field repair was needed.

Boyer can still recall fixing a cross-threaded high-pressure fuel line in the middle of a

rice paddy after a forced landing from the loss of transmission pressure.

He’s now reliving those days with a painstaking restoration of the Huey.

“My goal is to get it all fixed up and get it as close to where it was the day it was manufactured,” Boyer said. He hopes it can be an educational tool for the public, particularly kids.

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‘Beloved’ Cherokee storyteller shares WWII experiences

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR erry Wolfe is a storyteller. Whether he’s telling a story of his people at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian or retelling his years spent in the U.S. Navy, the 91-year-old remembers every detail.

Wolfe recalls the hardships growing up on the Qualla Boundary in the 1930s. He remembers the day he enlisted during World War II, the day he returned home to Cherokee, and everything in between. From traveling by sea to the beaches of Normandy in the Atlantic Ocean to Pearl Harbor in the Pacific Ocean, he saw quite a bit of action during his six years of service.

“I was going to make a career of it, but I messed around and got married and my wife said, ‘When your term runs out you get home,’” he laughed. “We saw some good times and we saw some bad times.”

WWII started Sept. 1, 1939, but the U.S. didn’t get involved until Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese Dec. 7, 1941. Wolfe turned 18 in 1943 and enlisted in the Navy just as many of his fellow tribal members did during that time.

In those days there weren’t many steady jobs on the boundary and families lived in primitive homes without running water or power. Wolfe said most families were still living off the land by growing corn and potatoes along the mountainside. Many families had at least one milking cow and maybe a few chickens.

“We did a lot of canning and picked all kinds of fruit — there was plenty of that back then,” Wolfe said. “We had to walk everywhere because there were no roads or vehicles.”

Timber was being cut in what is now the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Wolfe recalls his mother selling sweet milk to families in the lumber camps for 20 cents a gallon and selling eggs and butter she made.

Serving in the military would at least mean he could send his $18 a month stipend back to his family.

Wolfe had his sights set on the West Coast, but after nine weeks of basic training in Great Lakes, Illinois, he was sent to Little Creek, Virginia, near Norfolk. His job was to transport soldiers on small boats from the base over to Virginia Beach every morning.

“We did that from September to January,” Wolfe said. “I wondered why we were doing it — no one ever explained anything to us — when I asked I never did get an answer.”

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Of course he knows now that everything he did in training during that time was all leading up to the big invasion. In January 1944, he was sent to Long Island, New York, where he was assigned to the Queen Mary — the second largest ship in the world at the time. Wolfe and a thousand other troops voyaged across the Atlantic with no knowledge of the next desti10 nation. They stopped in Scotland for a couple

The ship stayed until the Battle of Normandy was over in August. Wolfe’s name came up to head back to a base in London, England, and in March 1945 he took a ship back to Boston so he could return home for a 30-day leave. When he reported back to

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

DEPARTING FOR D-DAY

of weeks before Wolfe was sent to Falmouth Navy Base on the southern tip of England.

“My first night there, bombs started dropping all around the navy base leaving big potholes wherever the bombs went off,” he said.

“The sky would be lit up just like it was daylight — German planes were coming over dropping bombs, but they never hit us.”

The bombing continued for many nights and caused panicked people in town to run in every direction. Wolfe said a seasoned sailor offered him advice — no sense in running, the bombs will hit wherever they’re going to hit so it’s best to just stay put until it’s over — and that’s what he did.

When bombs weren’t going off at night the streets were pitch black. He said no one was allowed to have lights on the streets or even spark up a cigarette in fear of alerting the enemy. The blackout made for a few interesting evenings of Wolfe getting lost in town trying to find his way back to the barracks without any light to guide his way.

Wolfe was assigned to another ship in April 1944 that was similar to the one he trained on in Virginia. He loaded up with a crew of 16 men, tanks and trucks in preparation of the big invasion of Normandy.

“Everything was stirring strong,” he recalled.

On June 2, 5,000 ships set off across the English Channel toward Normandy, but choppy waters caused them to have to turn around half way through their journey.

“Half way across, the waters were rolling like this,” he said moving his hands up and down like a wave. “It was too rough so we had to turn around.”

Wolfe’s ship went out again June 5 and reached Omaha Beach on the coast of France, discharging soldiers and tanks to the shores.

June 6 — D-Day — was one of the largest amphibious military assaults in history. More than 156,000 Allied forces landed across a 50mile stretch of beaches in Normandy that day with the goal of liberating Western Europe from the control of Nazi Germany.

Though he never left the ship, Wolfe witnessed much of the warfare from a close distance.

“We could see some of the tanks explode as soon as they hit the beach,” he said. “We lost a lot of men on D-Day.”

BEGINNING OF THE END

Jerry Wolfe, a 91-year-old ‘beloved’ Cherokee elder, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He still works at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian three days a week. Jessi Stone photo Norfolk, Virginia, he was put in charge of 14 newly enlisted white sailors.

He was tasked with transporting them up to the Newport Navy Base in Rhode Island to report for duty. Wolfe and his 14 sailors were riding the rail through New York City when the train stopped abruptly.

“The train stopped and all the guys looked out the windows,” Wolfe recalled. “The air was full of paper clippings (confetti) — it was everywhere.”

“Very few of the servicemen served in both theaters — I got bars for being in the Atlantic war zone and ribbons for being in Pacific.”

— Jerry Wolfe

Wolfe and his fellow soldiers just happened to be in the big city when the announcement was made that the Germans had given up — V-E Day (Victory in Europe).

Not knowing when the train would get rolling again to get them to Newport, Wolfe told his men to stay on board as the excitement and celebration continued on the streets. After waiting for a couple of hours, he allowed the sailors to hop off the train to grab a quick drink at a pub just across the street.

“I told them to go and come back quickly so the train wouldn’t leave us. Well they all came back with fifths of whiskey,” he laughed. “Every serviceman that walked into that pub got a fifth of whiskey, so it wasn’t too long before everyone on the train was high.”

Wolfe got the drunken sailors to Newport

and dropped off their records at the naval base. He said the lieutenant he reported to made a big deal out of commending him for delivering the sailors through all the uproar in New York City. While other officers kept coming in to thank him for his success, Wolfe said he was just trying to make a quick escape.

“I wanted to get out of there because I had had a few drinks on the train too,” he said.

After some more training in New Orleans, Wolfe was on another ship heading toward Pearl Harbor when the U.S. dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.

Even though the first bomb killed 800,000 of people, the Japanese didn’t surrender until the second A-bomb was dropped Aug. 9 on Nagasaki, killing 40,000. He continued on to Pearl Harbor for another historic moment — the official declaration of peace signing on the U.S.S. Missouri by the Japanese — better known as V-J Day (Victory over Japan).

“Very few of the servicemen served in both theaters — I got bars for being in the Atlantic war zone and ribbons for being in Pacific,” Wolfe said. “It just happened that way and that’s when the war was over.”

After the war, Wolfe was stationed in Key West, Florida, for shore duty. He was stationed in a top-secret laboratory where he worked on testing torpedoes in the ocean.

COMING HOME

When his enlistment ended in 1949, Wolfe decided not to re-up and returned home to Cherokee.

“It was good to be home,” he said.

Wolfe went home and started a family. He and his wife had seven children, many of which still live in Cherokee. He said he had the opportunity to learn a trade when he returned home thanks to the GI Bill. He did masonry for two years

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More than just a flag

played out as Carl stood behind a machine gun, surrounded by violence, his daughters never heard.

“He would never talk about it,” Vreeland said. “There were very few times he ever mentioned it.”

“He’d have nightmares,” her mother added.

Carl passed away on Father’s Day 2003, and Vreeland can’t help but wish she’d written down the anecdotes he did share during

others. His message will be one of unity among all people no matter their race.

“I want to talk about all the people who have given their lives for all of us and not just one certain people,” he said.

He said Jesus gave his life for all people and left a message of peace through the Ten Commandments. President Abraham Lincoln gave his life for the cause of united all people in the union. Then there is the legend of Tsali, a Cherokee man who resisted leaving his land and was shot to death by soldiers.

“Martin Luther King Jr. gave his life for all people and he said, ‘I want to see my children play with your children,’” Wolfe said. “He meant for all children to get together and live

together in harmony.”

Wolfe grew up in a time of unrest and racism, but he says everyone was put on this Earth to get along and work together in harmony. He took a moment to reflect on all that has been taken from the Cherokee people throughout history.

“A lot was taken from our people. The federal government drove us out because we didn’t have weapons to fight like they did so they could easily take it,” he said.

Despite a long history of oppression in the U.S., Wolfe and other Cherokee people stepped up to fight when it came time to go to war.

“We just did what needed to be done,” Wolfe said.

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had been given the title since the early 1800s.

“A beloved man is a man who looks after the community — wherever he’s needed, he should be there,” Wolfe said.

He takes that job seriously. He can be found at many of the major events in Cherokee saying an opening prayer in his native Cherokee language. For the last 18 years, he’s worked part time at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian telling stories and recounting history for visitors.

Wolf was chosen this year to be the speaker at a Veteran’s Day Ceremony at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville. He wants to highlight several important people in history who have sacrificed for the sake of

Smoky Mountain News

and carpentry for another two years. Though he said he enjoyed the carpentry work more, he said he ended up making a living in masonry.

“I didn’t care for brick laying but it paid me $1.50 an hour — that was some good money back then,” he said.

Wolfe would go on to complete many rocklaying projects in the national park and helped build many churches throughout Western North Carolina, including a Catholic church in Sylva and a Presbyterian church in Bryson City.

Wolfe is an active and respected elder in the community. The Eastern Band of Cherokee named Wolfe a “beloved” man in 2013 — it was the first time a Cherokee man

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November 11-17, 2015

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER hen 91-year-old Gertrude Mashburn tells strangers she’s a World War II veteran — a topic she usually brings up early in a conversation — she’s often met with skepticism.

These days, Mashburn is a petite woman who’s bound to a wheelchair and has trouble adding much volume to her voice. It’s hard to picture her as the breaker of gender barriers and overcomer of hardship she must have been to make her words true.

But spend a minute talking with her, and Mashburn’s spunky spirit comes rushing out, with stories of the past not far behind.

It was 1944 when she enlisted in the Navy, a 20-year-old girl from Pennsylvania who still bore her maiden name of Collins.

She was looking to go to work, but in those days options were limited.

“Back then they didn’t hire women like they do now. I couldn’t get a job anywhere else, so I went into the military,” Mashburn said.

She set out for basic training in the Bronx of New York, along with about 30 other women who had enlisted under the Navy’s WAVES — Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service — program.

Originally, the military saw female presence in its ranks as a limited-time arrangement, a necessary but temporary wartime measure. A year after the program’s creation in 1942, WAVES began to receive equal pay, rankings and discipline as their male counterparts, but they couldn’t serve in combat zones. Mashburn’s two years of service were spent entirely stateside.

She worked in the commissary at the naval base in Memphis, Tennessee, duties including uniform dispersal and cleaning the shop.

“Most of the time I enjoyed it in the military,” Mashburn said. There was always a job to do, and she’d often find herself doing physical tasks that women didn’t often perform outside of the military. To someone

whose life experience included running a chainsaw, driving a tractor and using a woodsplitter, that was a pro more than a con.

But through all that, she said, ran a sense of service, a conviction that she was doing her part in the fight against an enemy that returned so many of her country’s men wounded and haunted — or not at all.

“If a man gives his life for his wife, his wife better be able to in time do the same thing for him, give her life for his,” she said.

When she first signed up, Mashburn was disappointed to discover that, as a woman, she wouldn’t be heading off to Germany or the South Pacific. She wanted to fight, to be a direct participant in the war effort.

“I think different now,” she said. “That’s a man’s place.”

In Memphis, she’d see the men return with injuries and illnesses and terrible memories many of them Gertrude Mashburn is one of two living female World War II veterans in Jackson County. Right: Mashburn, would never fully discuss. then Gertrude Collins, poses in her uniform as a Navy WAVE. Holly Kays photo • Donated photo She didn’t need to cross an ocean to understand the his life, as well as the stories her mother told horror of war. when she was younger.

“They went through hell, there’s no “The things that he saw he didn’t want to doubt about it,” Mashburn said. “But that’s share with anybody,” Vreeland said. “I felt about all I can tell you on that. Our men they were too terrible for him to want to stood up to the test.” rehash it because of the things he had to do.”

Among those men was her future husThe war left lifelong scars, but Vreeland though rarely discussed, was always in the band Carl Mashburn, a Dillsboro native said she never doubted that her parents were who’d served in Europe as a machine gunner. background. glad they had served. She and her sisters “Growing up I saw firsthand the sacriHis wartime experience ended with the loss grew up with a deep respect for the military, fices veterans made for themselves and their of a leg, requiring months of recuperation in its veterans and their role in ensuring the families. I saw how proud my parents were a European hospital and another year at freedoms that define life in America. of their service and how important it was to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in “It’s not just a flag,” she said. “It means them,” said Teresa Vreeland, the youngest of Washington, D.C. something.” the three daughters.

“He came back to North Carolina and Even at 91, Gertrude lives out that sentiOf course, her father’s missing leg was tried to get a job, but nobody would hire a disabled vet, so he went back to Pennsylvania always a reminder of the cost of war. He’d tell ment. Any time she passes an American flag, she salutes it. If she’s rolling down a street stories, sometimes, like the one about campbecause he had friends there in the trucking full of flags, she’ll lift her right hand for each ing in Iceland, his wet coat hung on a tree business,” said Sandra Thompson, daughter and every one. branch to dry. The unit wound up having to of Gertrude and Carl Mashburn.

“I was proud,” she said, “to serve my leave so hastily that he left the coat behind.

One of those friends was Gertrude’s The heavier stories, though, the ones that country at that time of war.” brother. Eventually, she and Carl met.

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A female WWII vet reflects on the war and its impact on her family

“The way Mom tells the story or has told the story in the past is that it was time for her to reenlist, to sign up for another two years, but she had met Daddy and she said, ‘No, I got to go,’” Thompson recalled.

With the war over and their military service done, the Mashburns married and moved back to North Carolina. They built a life together on hard work and family, which grew to include three daughters. But the war,

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Jackson looks to future government space needs Commissioners OK contract for remodel design work at Skyland Services Center

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ackson County is moving ahead with an effort to free up more space in its Health Department.

Last week, county commissioners OK’d $72,000 for architectural design, contract development and bid negotiation to remodel a 10,500-square-foot portion of the county’s Skyland Services Center.

The building, known to some as the old Southern Lumber building, is currently home to the Board of Elections, drivers license office and the grounds maintenance, housekeeping and public works departments, but it still has 10,000 empty square feet. A preliminary estimate commissioners heard last year projected it would cost about $1.4 million to renovate the space.

Commissioners are considering moving Jackson County Cooperative Extension and the Jackson County Soil and Water Conservation District into the extra space at

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November 11-17, 2015

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the Skyland Services Center, along with the Farm Service Agency and possibly the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Currently, Extension and the Conservation District share a building with the Health Department.

“It’s almost like a chain reaction kind of thing,” said Commissioner Vicki Greene.

“You move the offices out of the community services building (where the Health Department is) to the Skyland Services Center and determine which of two uses you want to use that building for. Either renovate it for a Health Department or use it for nonjudicial services that are currently in the Justice Center.”

For Jackson County, two space issues are at play.

First, the Health Department is running out of space, having seen a growth in the requirements it’s subject to and the programs it offers. The elevators aren’t compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, many of the building’s systems are at the end of their life cycle, clerical space is lacking and the building’s overall configuration just isn’t conducive to patient privacy.

“Right now someone walks up to the front desk and there is no privacy. There is no way to have a private, secure area and talk about

In its current configuration, more than 10,000 square feet of the county’s Skyland Services Center is unused. County commissioners are considering renovating it for office space.

Donated graphic

what services they need,” said Commission Chairman Brian McMahan. “There are a lot of things that need to be corrected.”

At the same time, the county is short on courtroom space. Superior Court Judge Bradley Letts has made it abundantly clear to commissioners that the Jackson County Justice Center has outgrown its capacity and

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.

that commissioners will need to provide more space for court functions as soon as possible. The county had a study done on space needs last year, with the company — Heery International, which also designs courthouses — suggesting Jackson is 36,000 square feet too small. Adding that much space would likely cost north of

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The vote to approve $72,000 for architecture, engineering and contract work surrounding a potential renovation in the Jackson County Skyland Services Center was unanimous, but a couple commissioners expressed concern over the price tag later in their meeting.

“I just feel like sometimes as a board when something’s $70,000 it’s not a whole lot, and, well, it is a whole lot to me,” said Commissioner Boyce Dietz.

During the same meeting, commissioners had approved $35,000 for design work for potential construction at the Green Energy Park. Commissioner Charles Elders joined Dietz in questioning whether the expenditures were warranted.

“It seems like we’re spending an awful lot of money to find out some things we already know,” Elders said. “I believe with our own staff we could meet this and save a lot of money and redo some of these buildings.”

That’s not exactly possible, County

Department Director Paula Carden — will be appointed over the next month, and the group will likely take three or four months to reach a conclusion, Wooten said.

In the meantime, commissioners will consider whether to move ahead with the Skyland Services Center renovation. The architecture and engineering work commissioners just approved will likely be done by the spring, Wooten said, and ready to bid at that point. The work itself should take about nine months. If commissioners give the project a green light — which paying for the architecture and engineering work does not obligate them to do — the process should wrap up in late 2016 or early 2017.

At that point, commissioners will have had plenty of time to consider the conclusion of the task force and decide on a course of action.

“We’re not building a building (with this vote),” Wooten told commissioners last week. “We’re looking at the space that’s available and making sure it will meet the needs of this department.”

Radley Balko, a journalist with the Washington Post and author of “The Rise of the Warrior Cop,” will host a discussion about increased militarization of American police departments from 4-5:15 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, in Room 101 of the Forsyth Building at Western Carolina University.

The Free Enterprise Speaker Series is free and open to the public.

Balko is a former investigative reporter with the Huffington Post and former policy analyst for The Cato Institute. He received the 2015 Innocence Project Journalism Award for his writing on forensics reform and crime lab abuses, which included reporting in North Carolina.

A graduate of Indiana University, Balko also has been a senior editor at Reason magazine and an opinion columnist for FoxNews.com.

828.227.3383 or ejlopez@wcu.edu.

Smoky Mountain News

Journalist to speak about militarization of police

November 11-17, 2015

$10 million. Another option commissioners have considered is moving the administrative offices that currently take up about half of the building to another space, freeing up more square footage for court functions.

If the county built a new Health Department building, it could move county administrative functions to the existing building. Of course, buying land and constructing a new facility — not to mention renovating the existing one — would prove quite costly. The county could also opt to keep the Health Department in its existing location but remodel the interior and expand into the space vacated by Cooperative Extension and the Soil and Water Conservation District. The estimated cost to remodel the existing building is $4.8 million.

A long list of factors and considerations will play into the ultimate decision, and the county is in the process of forming a task force to weigh them out. Members, to come from the health and county commission boards — with the likely additions of County Manager Chuck Wooten and Health

Manager Chuck Wooten told Elders, because state statutes require that counties hire licensed engineers and attorneys to do this kind of work before building. The cost of the contract is within the typical 6 to 7 percent of total project cost such work usually goes for.

Still, Elders maintained, “This is taxpayers’ money we’re spending, and I don’t feel all that easy to just hand it over without studying it a little further.”

With the county revaluation going into effect for the upcoming fiscal year — the results will return an overall decrease in county property value, leading to a decrease in tax revenue if commissioners don’t hike the rate — the now-versus-later calculation on spending is definitely a factor.

However, at the point Dietz brought the issue up, both votes — regarding the Skyland Services Center and Green Energy Park — had already been taken, with commissioner endorsing the contracts unanimously.

Commissioners will likely invite Odell Thompson, architect on both of the projects, to an upcoming meeting to discuss what’s involved with his piece of the project.

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Questioning the contract

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Franklin homeless ministry seeks new home

The Father’s House ministry in Franklin has plans to convert this former apartment building into a homeless shelter. Donated photo

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR owell Monteith is tired of hearing “No.” It seems like everywhere he turns for help, the answer is always the same.

“I do feel like everyone’s against me sometimes and it’s upsetting,” he said. “It’s not like I’m asking the town or the county for money or some kind of discount. I’m just asking that they work with me,” he said.

Monteith, the pastor of The Father’s House Church in Franklin, started a homeless ministry about a year ago but has been struggling to keep the program going because of unexpected expenses. The church and shelter are currently located on Greenhouse Drive back behind Whistle Stop Mall, but the county fire marshal told Monteith improvements needed to be made to the facilities or it would be shut down. To meet fire safety codes, Monteith said he would need to install a $25,000 fire sprinkler system to be in compliance.

Monteith pleaded with the Macon County commissioners for help, but the board told him they couldn’t selectively enforce their fire safety codes. Monteith was unable to raise the

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

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funds needed to make the improvements and has been searching for other options.

Monteith went before the Franklin Board of Aldermen last week to make a request to tap on to a town sewer line, but was again turned down. He said the church has purchased 0.8 acres at 940 Lake Emory Drive in Franklin with the intent of using it to operate The Father’s House church and homeless shelter.

The structure on the property — a twostory apartment building — has been vacant for more than a year. The structure is in such bad shape that Monteith said no bank would lend money for a purchase. The property owner has agreed to finance it and Monteith plans to use donated labor to make repairs.

Franklin architect Tom Ritter has signed on to help with the project. He told the Franklin board that sewer capabilities were needed to make the project feasible.

“The building is in an extreme state of disrepair and we plan to upgrade it,” Ritter said.

“To make this project work, there’s no other options other than to tap into the system already there.”

Monteith said they anticipate spending

“We would be happy to sit with you and more than $20,000 on repairs and renovations to get the building up to standard and talk about other options, but we can’t allow he is working closely with the county building that to happen,” he said.

Alderman Verlin Curtis agreed. He inspectors and fire marshal.

“Code enforcement and the fire marshal explained to Monteith that any taps on the don’t have any huge concerns — there’s noth- forced main would put additional pressure ing unattainable — but the main issue now is on all the lines downwind from it. He suggested getting easements from the neighbors so the septic problem,” Monteith said.

Ritter said there are three existing septic Monteith could install a sewer line from the systems on the property — two that were property down to the pump station at the installed legally and one that was done with- nearby county maintenance garage.

In a follow-up interview, Monteith said he out a proper permit in the past. One of the legal septic systems is located underneath the discussed the idea with the county, but tying structure, which makes it impossible to make on at the county pump station is not an repairs or upgrades, and the other one has option either.

He said the only other option was to pay limited capacity. While the septic system can only be permitted to serve five bedrooms, $250,000 to install a new pump station that Monteith wants to be able to service more would also have the capacity to allow other since there are 18 bedrooms in the building. residents on the road to tap on to the line.

His plan to turn part of the building into a liv- Monteith said his next step is to search for ing quarters for him and his family — which some kind of grant the town or county can he said he will pay for himself — create a apply for to expand services in the area. The 2,000-square-foot sanctuary and have 4,000- property is not in the town limits but is part of its ETJ (extraterritorial jurisdiction). square feet for the shelter.

Monteith had hoped to have the new shel“I want to be able to be there all the time to minister to these people,” Monteith said. ter open by December to give people a warm “It’s difficult now because if someone shows place to stay for the winter months, but that up at midnight then I have to go leave my family to go out The structure is in such bad shape there and get them signed up for the program.” that Monteith said no bank would Ritter presented a letter lend money for a purchase. The from Chief Building Inspector Bobby Bishop statproperty owner has agreed to ing that he visited the propfinance it and Monteith plains to use erty and determined work could be done to bring the donated labor to make repairs. structure into code compliance. He also had a letter from engineer Larry Lackey stating that he doesn’t look like it’s going to happen with all approved the sewer engineering plans for the setbacks. What really disappoints him is that just before the town denied his request, it the project.

Franklin Town Manager Summer approved a resolution proclaiming Nov. 14Woodard said the only place the ministry 22 as National Hunger and Homelessness could tap on is on a forced main sewer line Awareness Week.

“They made the proclamation and then and the town has a policy against adding taps to a forced main because of the problems it denied us the capability to provide the service can cause with pressure in the system. With for people to not be homeless,” he said. “I’ve more than $5 million recently invested in heard several local politicians say they don’t upgrading the town’s water and sewer sys- want Franklin to look like Asheville, but The tem, she said it was important to protect that Father’s House isn’t just a shelter — it’s a sixmonth program to give people the skills they investment.

Alderman Billy Mashburn said the town need to make it on their own.”

To donate to The Father’s House, visit had turned down several people who wanted to tie in to the forced main line and he didn’t www.gofundme.com/thefathershousefra or call Monteith at 828.371.3334. want to set a new precedence.

New initiative to provide winter assistance

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR acon New Beginnings, a new nonprofit in Macon County working to address homelessness, has been hard at work trying to come up with a plan to shelter people in need through the winter.

Bob Bourke, Macon New Beginnings president, said the newly formed organization is still in its infancy stage but is directing all its time and resources right now toward being able to provide emergency, temporary housing for people through the winter.

The organization has worked out a deal with a couple of 14 hotel owners to secure vacant hotel rooms at a discounted

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price. For $150, Macon New Beginnings can house a person or family for a week.

“During that week, we encourage them strongly to get to NC Works to find a job or if it’s health issues, we send them to CareNet or direct them to whatever resources they need,” Bourke said. “Because a week goes by fast.”

So far, Bourke said the organization has assisted more than 40 people, including several families. Macon New Beginnings has been holding regular meetings to gather together volunteers to assist in various capacities, including prevention efforts, crisis intervention and transitions.

“Fortunately, we’ve been able to move people from homelessness to their own home within one week,” Bourke said. “All

kinds of people in the community are stepping up to help.”

For those who aren’t able to find a permanent residence within a week, Bourke said the organization examines those situations on a case-by-case basis. If someone has been making an effort and has extenuating circumstances, they might be able to help them for another week. If the person hasn’t made an effort to help himself or herself, they will need to look for somewhere else to stay.

Macon New Beginnings was founded on Christian principles just like The Father’s House, a homeless ministry in Franklin providing shelter for people who commit to participating in a six-month rehabilitation program through the church. However, the two organizations don’t seem to be able to work in tandem even though their missions are similar.

Lowell Monteith, pastor of The Father’s House, said the people who started Macon New

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Bourke acknowledges that the hotel model is not sustainable, but it’s the best they can do for this winter. Macon New Beginnings is also looking at long-term solutions like finding a building for a shelter. He is also in discussions with the owner of an RV park for sale to perhaps build tiny homes in the park for people.

Monteith is trying to find another location for the shelter. He has a former apartment building purchased on Lake Emory Road but providing enough sewer capacity has been a problem. The town of Franklin and Macon County commissioners have not been receptive to allowing him to tie on to the sewer line on Lake Emory Road because it’s a forced main line. Monteith can’t help but feel like everyone is against his efforts.

“I personally don’t have any animosity toward Lowell — he’s trying to help the homeless — but there are proper ways to do it,” Bourke said. “If he can find a good avenue, we will help him.”

The next volunteer meeting for Macon New Beginnings will be held at 5 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Community Building in Franklin. Visit www.maconnewbeginnings.org.

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Macon New Beginnings is also looking at long-term solutions like finding a building for a shelter. It is also in discussions with the owner of an RV park for sale to perhaps build tiny homes in the park for people.

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Beginnings were originally part of his ministry board, but they broke off and started a new mission. Monteith said he set an expectation of time he wanted board members to spend interacting with clients at the shelter, but they couldn’t meet that expectation.

“I showed up to some of the meetings, but they don’t want to work with me,” Monteith said.

Bourke said Macon New Beginnings has tried to assist The Father’s House by donating blankets and other essentials his clients may need, but he doesn’t feel comfortable referring people to that shelter due to safety issues with the facility. The Father’s House church and shelter are located in a former greenhouse nursery and the county fire marshal has threatened to shut the place down if Monteith doesn’t install a sprinkler system.

“We have the same mission to help the homeless but we can’t refer people to them,” Burke said.

“We can’t risk putting homeless people in a worse situation.”

While Monteith thinks it’s great that another organization is working to help the homeless, he said putting people in a hotel for a week is not a long-term solution to the problem. Macon New Beginnings might be helping people who may just be going through a hard time, but his six-month program is designed to help people with a myriad of problems that led them to homelessness — drug abuse, being institutionalized for many years and other obstacles. He would rather see the organization put the money it’s raised toward a shelter.

“They’re getting people out looking for jobs and that’s great, but it’s not sustainable to put people in hotels — they’re going to run out of money quickly,” Monteith said.

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Bryson City mayor keeps his seat

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votes while the other three candidates had less than 80 votes each.

The race for mayor was also a close call.

Sutton had 102 votes on election night and Cuthbertson had 99 votes, making it a toss-up until Tuesday morning. Write-in

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR s the municipal elections were coming to a close last Tuesday night, it became The final results relied on clear that the race in Bryson City would be too close to call. eight provisional ballots Official results finally came in Tuesday that couldn’t be officially morning — Mayor Tom Sutton kept his seat as mayor, and incumbent Jim Gribble and counted until a week newcomer Heidi Woodard will fill the two open seats on the board. Sutton defeated his after election day, mayoral challenger Catherine Cuthbertson by according to Swain only six votes, while Gribble and Woodard tied with 95 votes.

County elections director Joan Weeks, Swain County elections direcJoan Weeks. tor, said the final results relied on eight provisional ballots that couldn’t be officially counted until a week later. A provisional ballot is cast when someone comes to vote but the elections staff is unable to determine whether they are really registered to vote.

Weeks said the voter is allowed to complete a ballot but it is counted only if and when the voter registration is Tom Sutton Jim Gribble Heidi Woodard verified through the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. candidate Jeramy Shuler received 33 votes With six candidates running for two open for mayor. seats on the board of aldermen and only 237 The newly elected board members and ballots cast in the election, there were just a mayor will be sworn in at the next board couple of votes separating the top three vote- meeting. The Bryson City Board of Aldermen getters on election night. Gribble had 94 meets at 6 p.m. on the first Monday of each votes, challenger Heidi Woodard had 93 month at Town Hall, 45 Everett Street, votes and incumbent Kate Welch had 91 Bryson City.

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Write-in votes counted for Webster and Forest Hills

828-246-6505 16

Board of aldermen welcomes one new member

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER either Webster nor Forest Hills will have vacancies when the new town government terms begin in December, according to official election results. In both elections, write-in votes showed a strong enough consensus to overcome the dearth of candidates to sign up for inclusion on the ballot.

In Webster, former mayor Larry Phillips will take a seat on the board, filling the place currently held by Janice Blanton.

Blanton didn’t run for re-election, and nobody else signed up to take her spot. But Phillips earned 10 write-in votes on Election Day, just ahead of second-place write-in candidate Jade Moses. Phillips has agreed to serve, Mayor Nick Breedlove said.

“He brings a tremendous amount of experience, historical knowledge, and it will be great to have him as an asset to our town once again,” Breedlove said.

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Forest Hills had a similar situation, with no candidate signing up to take the place of Councilman Dan Perlmutter, who decided not to run for another term. But write-in votes revealed a successor in Debbie Rowland, a 31-year resident of Forest Hills. Between early voting and Election Day voting, Rowland received a total of six votes, just ahead of Ken Dickert, who had four votes.

“I’ve wanted to be involved in the community for quite some time, and I just decided that now is the time to do it,” Rowland said.

Rowland, 64, works as an academic and career counselor at Haywood Community College, a position she’s held for 17 years.

“I’d like to be more visible,” Rowland said, “visit with neighbors, see what their concerns are in the neighborhood and bring those ideas to the council.”

The 2015 election also returned some familiar faces to the boards of Webster and Forest Hills. Billie Jo Bryson will serve another term on Webster’s town board, and Ron Mau and Kolleen Begley will keep their posts as councilman and mayor, respectively.

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR he Sylva Board of Commissioners election came down to the flip of a coin — literally.

The final election results weren’t tallied until Tuesday morning when the final provisional ballots were counted. The four provisional ballots counted in the Sylva race didn’t change the preliminary results of the mayoral race but did make a difference in the commissioner results.

With 182 votes, David Nestler was the top vote-getter, and Harold Hensley came in second with 163 Greg McPherson votes. Greg McPherson and Charlie Schmidt were only one vote apart on election night, but the provisional ballots had them tied with 112 votes each.

In the event of a tie, North Carolina law allows local board of elections to “determine by lots,” which means election staff can flip a coin or draw straws or any other measure where the decision is left to chance. The Jackson County Board of Elections decided to flip a coin to decide whether McPherson or Schmidt would

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take office. McPherson was assigned to heads and won the coin toss two out of three times.

“Isn’t that crazy? I never in my wildest dreams saw that happening,” McPherson said. “It got very surreal at the end — everything has been so cut and dry and then it ultimately came down to chance.”

McPherson was at the elections office when the coin toss happened and Schmidt was on the phone waiting to hear the results. Given that they are both local business owners, McPherson isn’t too surprised that voters Lynda Sossamon thought they would both be good choices to work on economic development and move the town forward.

“But it certainly wasn’t a landslide so I have to think about how all those people would vote when making decisions,” he said.

He said this is a great parable to show people how just one vote can make a difference.

“And they let me keep the quarter when I left — it’s a very nice symbol,” he said.

The four provisional ballots counted in the Sylva election didn’t change the results

With so many candidates running and an expected low voter turnout in a municipal election, Sossamon said she wasn’t surprised at the close races. Out of 2,016 registered voters in Sylva, only 334 cast ballots — about 17 percent. for the mayoral race.

Candidates Danny Allen and Lynda Sossamon were separated by just three votes on election night, with Sossamon garnering 96 votes and Allen 93. Barbara Hamilton fell slightly behind with 84 votes, but as a sitting commissioner whose seat was not up for election this year, she will keep her place on the town board through 2017.

Final results were announced Tuesday showing Sossamon had stayed on top with 97 votes. Allen had 94 votes and Hamilton had 86 votes.

“I’m very excited about the results,” Sossamon said Tuesday. “It’s been a very nerve-racking week wondering what’s going to happen.”

With so many candidates running and an expected low voter turnout in a municipal election, Sossamon said she wasn’t surprised at the close races. Out of 2,016 registered voters in Sylva, only 334 cast ballots — about 17 percent. Now that everything has been settled, she is looking forward to being sworn in at the first meeting in December and getting to work with a new board.

With an impending county revaluation expected to lower property values and therefore property tax revenues — combined with the fact that last year Sylva had to dip into its savings to balance the budget — the new board will have to decide whether to raise property taxes or make up the shortfall in some other way.

Downtown traffic and the potential to expand parking, aesthetics, improving the look of Mill Street and cleaning up Scotts Creek, which runs through town, are just a few of the other issues candidates mentioned during the campaign.

“I’m looking forward to working with a great board — we’ve got a good mix of new and older members and I think we’ll be just fine working together,” Sossamon said.

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Sylva election comes down to flip of a coin

November 11-17, 2015 Smoky Mountain News 17

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After years of debate, Jackson passes revised steep slope ordinance

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER fter years of debate and meetings and public input, Jackson County’s steep slope ordinance is complete.

Commissioners took a final vote on the amended ordinance last week, passing it on a 4 to 1 vote.

“All the changes were good ones,” said County Commission Chairman Brian McMahan. “It’s been a long, drawn-out process and I’m glad to see it Brian McMahan finally be finished.”

Officially called the Mountain Hillside Development Ordinance, the legislation lays out limitations and special requirements on homes built on steep slopes in the county. It’s been in effect since 2007, but in 2013 the board of commissioners sitting at the time asked the planning board to write a revised version with loosened regulations.

When the planning board held a public hearing on their revisions last year, a crowd of speakers showed up unanimously opposed to the changes. With an election coming up that November, commissioners decided to put off a vote until after Election Day. When voters seated a new board of commissioners whose majority favored stronger regulations on steep slope development, the version the planning board — whose composition had also shifted to include a majority favoring more regulation — had been working on for the past year was shelved.

Most of the changes in the version commissioners enacted last week are technical, but the revised ordinance does contain some key differences from the original: • The formula used to calculate slope has changed to yield more uniform results from the old formula, which had been criticized as subjective.

• A “steep slope” is now defined as a slope with a grade of at least 35 percent, a slightly higher threshold than the original 30 percent.

The change came in response to assurance from experts that slope becomes a factor in landslide risk when it exceeds 36 percent.

• The Planning Department, not the Permitting and Code Enforcement

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Department, will be responsible for reviewing plats and calculating slope. Confusion over that responsibility had been partly responsible for criticism of the Permitting and Code Enforcement Department arising this spring. Concerns prompted commissioners to pay for an audit of the department.

“I think the planning board did a really good job recognizing some issues that need to be corrected from a staff perspective on how the ordinance is administered,” McMahan said.

Commissioner Charles Elders, the sole nay vote on the ordinance, said he sees the benefit of regulating steep slope development but fears the existing ordinance is too restrictive.

“I just believe we’re putting too much emphasis on what they (property owners) can’t do versus what we can help them do,” he said.

Elders said he’d favor an ordinance with Charles Elders more opportunities for property owners to gain exemption from restrictions if they can procure an engineering study showing how the development can be done safely. He’d also want a mechanism to adjust property taxes to make up for lost opportunity from restricted land use.

“If I tell you, ‘You have a piece of property here that you cannot use,’ I ought to have the authority to tell you we will reduce your taxes on that,” he said. “I just think there’s a lot more work we should have done.”

McMahan, meanwhile, contends that property values will adjust to reflect any change in development potential and pointed out that devising property tax exemptions is the jurisdiction of state, not county, government.

“It’s almost self-correcting,” he said of property values. “If you own a piece of property that was not developable, then the value would automatically go down.”

It’s a contentious issue that is apt to continue drawing contrasting opinions, but having an updated ordinance on the books should be counted an accomplishment, Commissioner Vicki Greene said.

“I didn’t know if I’d live long enough to see that happen,” she said.

Officially called the Mountain Hillside Development Ordinance, the legislation lays out limitations and special requirements on homes built on steep slopes in the county.

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ith a report looking at the ins and outs of work in its planning and permitting/code enforcement departments now finished, Jackson County is ready to start implementing the report’s recommendations.

“We’ve completed that project. We’ve closed the loop,” County Manager Chuck Wooten said by way of explaining commissioners’ vote last week to accept the finished report.

Commissioners voted unanimously to OK the 106-page document prepared by Charlotte-based Benchmark Planning.

“If there were any additional concerns or requests for information, that would have been the appropriate time for commissioners to make those requests to Benchmark,” said Commission Chairman Brian McMahan.

None were broached, so now Wooten is getting together an action plan to improve operations in the two departments.

Commissioners will likely discuss the matter at their Nov. 17 work session, and Wooten is ready to move ahead with some of the more minor, workflow-related changes that don’t require action from commissioners.

Commissioners will have some more significant suggestions to consider, the biggest of which is Benchmark’s recommendation

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that they create a new management position to oversee the two departments. The salary for such a position would be significant, and commissioners balked at the suggestion.

“I just can’t see us being in the position with revaluation to create a very high-level position in our organization,” Wooten said, echoing sentiments expressed by commissioners. The revaluation, which will go into effect for the 2016-17 fiscal year, will mean county property taxes are based on lower values than they are now, meaning overall revenue will go down if the tax rate doesn’t change.

At the same time, commissioners are in the process of hiring a new planning director. The position has been vacant since Gerald Green resigned from it in May to take a planning director job in Knoxville.

Commissioners have extended an offer to one of the candidates and are waiting for a response — but whoever takes the job will likely have their own ideas to offer.

One task the new director will oversee is the creation of a unified development ordinance — basically, pulling each of Jackson County’s 18 ordinances related to land development under one heading. The result would be much more user-friendly than the jumble of ordinances on the books now, Benchmark representatives told commis-

sioners. But combing through all those ordinances and stitching them together in an understandable, non-repetitive way will likely require help from an outside contractor.

“It’s just one of those projects that would be all-encompassing and would suck up all the time that you had if you put in all the effort necessary,” Wooten said.

Commissioners voted unanimously to OK the 106-page document prepared by Charlotte-based Benchmark Planning.

Other recommendations for commissioners to consider include co-locating all the departments that deal with builders, increasing permit fees, moving ordinance-related responsibilities to the Planning Department and providing more training opportunities for employees and board members.

Commissioners had requested the audit after concern arose this spring that the Permitting and Code Enforcement

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Jackson moving forward with changes to code enforcement, planning departments

Department hadn’t been fully carrying out its responsibilities. First, there was confusion over whether the department was responsible for inspecting the R-5000 road project to build another entrance to Southwestern Community College — Director Tony Elders at first said it wasn’t but later conceded that his department was responsible for inspecting the project.

Then, in Green’s last Planning Board meeting before leaving for his new position, he and Elders argued over whose job it was to enforce the Mountain Hillside Development Ordinance, revealing the fact that neither department had been owning responsibility for enforcement. Other issues came to light as well, including disagreement over the legality of a steep slope construction project in Dillsboro and discovery that Elders’ department hadn’t been collecting affidavits from builders claiming exemption from the requirement to hold a general contracting license. The state had required the affidavits since 2011.

These questions prompted commissioners to pay $15,350 for a report probing operations in both departments — planning as well as permitting and code enforcement. Completed last month, the report delivered favorable results. Benchmark representatives said nothing nefarious or negligent was going on in either department but delivered recommendations to improve the effectiveness of and communication between the two departments.

The report is available online at www.jacksonnc.org/PDF/work-session/ oct-20/20151020-item1.pdf.

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Macon bus driver showered with honors

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR lice Bradley says she’s just an old country girl who isn’t used to the applause and compliments that come with being in the spotlight.

It’s been five months since she chased two armed suspects away from South Macon Elementary School with her own vehicle, but she is still receiving accolades for her quick and brave response to a potentially dangerous situation.

She traveled all the way to Richmond, Virginia, over the weekend to attend the National Association for Pupil Transportation Summit to accept the Heroism Award presented by Blue Bird Corporation.

“It was the biggest place I’ve ever been into,” she said about the experience. “This little old country girl got a standing ovation.”

The Heroism Award recognizes people for their acts of heroism in the school transportation industry. A person must be nominated by a NAPT member and be endorsed by two colleagues.

Bradley would have no problem with getting an endorsement from her co-workers or boss. Chris Baldwin, Macon County Schools superintendent, said he was so proud of Bradley’s commitment to her job and pro-

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

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tecting students.

“It’s a huge honor for her and all Macon County school bus drivers,” Baldwin said.

“It’s a tribute to her career as a bus driver and not just the single event.”

In the early morning hours of June 4 Bradley spotted a suspicious man and woman in the parking lot of the school. She had cranked up her bus just after 5 a.m. and then walked back over to her vehicle to get something. When she spotted the suspects with guns in hand walking toward her bus, she cranked up her car and drove toward the suspects like she was going to run them over.

She was able to chase them away from the bus and the school building, and sheriff ’s deputies were able to apprehend both subjects.

Even though staff and students weren’t at school yet, the suspects told police they had intentions of shooting students and staff at the school “if it was God’s will.”

Macon County commissioners also recently recognized Bradley and all the law enforcement officers involved in the incident for a job well done.

“I feel like I didn’t do anything someone else wouldn’t have done, but evidently they feel like I did,” Bradley said. “I never expected all this, but it just keeps coming and coming — it’s amazing.”

She’s been a bus driver for Macon

Macon County bus driver Alice Bradley is pictured with Jeff Terlep, vice president of marketing and product planning at Blue Bird Corporation during the National Association for Pupil Transportation Summit held last weekend in Richmond, Virginia. Blue Bird is the corporate sponsor of the Heroism Award, which was presented to Bradley. Jaime Gallego/JG Photos County for almost 30 years, but she has no plans to retire. She loves her students and even drove many of their parents to school everyday.

“If I didn’t like it I wouldn’t do it — I’ve always loved the job and I’ve always said I

would quit if it ever stressed me,” Bradley said. “I love the kids so I guess I’ll drive till they throw me out.”

Bradley will be honored again Nov. 29 when she serves as the grand marshal in Franklin’s annual Christmas parade.

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citizen participation in government and social justice. wvmacon@wild-dog-mountain.info.

Rep. Joe Sam Queen, D-Waynesville, will have a reception to kick off his 2016 re-election campaign from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 19, at the Balsam Mountain Inn, 68 7 Springs Drive, Balsam.

Quuen has served two terms in the House and three terms in the Senate. He is an architect and serves on the board of directors for Folkmoot USA. Friends and supporters are encouraged to come out and enjoy refreshments as well as remarks from Queen. Campaign contributions are much appreciated.

WWII vet to share war experiences

Macon LWV to hold BYO lunch

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Haywood Extension to hold dehydrating class A dehydrating class will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at the NC Cooperative Extension Center of Haywood County, 589 Raccoon Road, Waynesville.

Dehydrating is one of the oldest methods of food preservation. Join this class and learn tips and techniques for dehydrating at home.

This hands-on class will cover safely making beef jerky, drying apples, cranberries, tomatoes, potatoes and other vegetables.

The cost of the class is $15 per person.

828.456.3575.

@SmokyMtnNews

Smoky Mountain News

The Macon County League of Women Voters will hold a BYO Lunch at noon Thursday Nov. 12, in the Fellowship Hall (smaller room off the kitchen) at the First Presbyterian Church in Franklin.

The League has completed a series of forums held during the last year and now it’s time to decide what's next for the organization. Since 2016 is a big election year, it will influence the group’s agenda. The community is encouraged to come and offer advice on the League’s direction for next year.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization focusing on voter rights, voter education, and other aspects of

One of the most important and hazardous tasks in World War II aviation was training pilots. John Crawford of Franklin will share “Adventures in WWII Flight Instruction” from his experiences as the instructed, instructor, and commander of an Army training squadron at 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Macon County Airport near Franklin.

The program is free and the public is welcome.

Contact Fred Alexander at aeroscribbler@gmail.com or 828.506.5869.

November 11-17, 2015

paying both ways.

“They haul it about every two weeks, and if you do the math on that it comes out somewhere around $16,000,” Parker told commissioners. “In a year’s time it’s similar as far as revenue for the county.”

“It’s six one way, half a dozen to another,” agreed Commission Chairman Brian McMahan. “We in the end would get the money back.”

The only reason the request had to come all the way to the commissioners, rather than stopping with the Solid Waste Board, is that county ordinance says property owners can apply for waivers only between Jan. 1 and June 30 each year. Keith Martin, owner of River Walk, didn’t get his certificate of occupancy until July 20 and hadn’t realized he needed to apply for a waiver before then, Parker said.

That might be a deadline commissioner should consider revising, McMahan said.

“I’d be in favor of having the Solid Waste Board draft a revision to that policy that would give county staff the flexibility to make those kinds of adjustments more than just once a calendar year,” he said.

news

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER River Walk Apartments, an eight-building complex in Cullowhee, will get a waiver on the $16,500 it paid in solid waste fees this year, Jackson County commissioners decided unanimously last week.

Basically, solid waste director Chad Parker told commissioners that right now River Walk is paying double for its trash disposal. That’s the situation they want the waiver to fix.

Jackson County charges a solid waste fee to each of its taxpayers, with the amount dependent on the number of bedrooms a property contains. The money supports the staffed recycling centers the county operates for citizens to take their trash and recyclables. Commercial trash pickup companies, however, pay the county a “tipping fee” to drop their hauls off at the county transfer station, where trash awaits transportation to the Georgia landfill Jackson County uses. They build that cost into the rates they charge their customers.

Since gaining its certificate of occupancy toward the end of July, River Walk has been

Make your appointment today and make sure you are wearing the right pair.

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From Hwy. 19/23 take Exit 104 towards Lake Junaluska; continue 1/2 mile to Haywood Medical Park on the left.

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THE FAMILY CARE CENTER It’s the beginning of November, and we’re heading into holiday season.

Have you ever wanted to treat yourself to a “healthy new you”?

We can help you set your goals and reach them at the Family Care Center.

Call 828-554-5565 to make an appointment.

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77 Painttown Road (Hwy. 19) • Cherokee, NC

Dr. Michael Toedt

Education

Smoky Mountain News

Swain, Macon students explore robotics Students from Swain and Macon counties recently learned about robotics during Manufacturing Awareness Day — an event sponsored by Southwestern Community College and Swain County Schools.

Dozens of exhibits were set up to show visitors some of the latest advances in manufacturing technology at the Swain County Business Education and Training Center. SCC instructor Jim Falbo, coordinator of SCC’s mechatronics engineering technology program, told students what all the technology meant for them.

“I’ve got employers calling to find out how many students we’ve got in our program and when they’ll be graduating because they need to hire qualified people now,” Falbo told the students. “If you want to stay here to live and work after you graduate high school, you can do that and you can have a great job working with this kind of technology.”

To learn more about the mechatronics engineering technology program at SCC, call 828.339.4299 or email j_falbo@southwesterncc.edu.

SCC receives $3.5 million in funding By receiving $1.4 million from NASA last month, Southwestern Community College has now secured more than $3.5 million in grant funding since July 1.

News of the NASA funding arrived just days after Southwestern was designated $710,589 for its part in a “First in the World” grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Other SCC programs to receive awards include TRIO’s Student Support Services ($1,386,050), A NASA High-Altitude Ballon effort through N.C. State University ($22,859), a Minority Male Mentoring program through the N.C. Community College System ($17,608) and a $1,000 career-counseling grant from Western Carolina University’s College of Education.

“So many of these grant awards are centered around science, and we’re elated at the opportunity to work with an earth-changing agency like NASA,” said Dr. Don Tomas, president of SCC. “This latest NASA grant will have a positive impact on the communities we serve for years to come.” www.southwesterncc.edu or 828.339.4000.

Western Carolina foundation to support math teachers The Western Carolina University Foundation is the recipient of a $200,000 grant from the North Carolina

23

■ Haywood Community College’s Creative Arts Visiting Artist Program will host a lecture by professional writer Katey Schultz at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19 in the auditorium. This event is free and open to the public. Schultz will share her seasoned perspective on what it takes for artists to attract positive exposure, and particularly what it’s like to work with a professional writer to obtain features in major publications and more. 828.627.4672.

■ Tiffany Henry of Southwestern Community College’s Small Business Center and Sarah Thompson of Southwestern Commission graduated from the Rural Economic Development Institute (REDI) — an intensive, three-month training program for leaders in rural communities. Conducted by the N.C. Rural Center in Raleigh, REDI provides techniques to improve participants’ leadership skills while imparting proven strategies to help put those new skills into action.

ALSO:

High school students watch ‘Newman’ — the Asheville Bomb Squad’s robot — during a demonstration at Manufacturing Awareness Day event organized by Swain County Schools and Southwestern Community College in Bryson City.

GlaxoSmithKline Foundation that will be used to support the Smoky Mountain Math Teachers’ Circle, a professional development organization for math teachers in Western North Carolina, and to create a network of the organizations statewide.

Two faculty members from WCU’s Department of Mathematics and Computer Science organized the Smoky Mountain Math Teachers’ Circle in the summer of 2014, inviting middle school math teachers from Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties to join with WCU professors for an ongoing dialogue about math with colleagues and professional mathematicians.

Email despeaux@wcu.edu or naborchelt@wcu.edu or visit mathteacherscircle.org.

HCC selects Dave Dudek Wildlife Award recipients The Haywood Community College Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society recently announced the recipients of the 2015 Dave Dudek Wildlife Award. HCC Fish and Wildlife Technology students Kaleigh Barrett and Candice Moreau will both receive a $500 scholarship and another honor to add to their resumes.

The award is named for retired Fish and Wildlife instructor and the founding advisor of the HCC student chapter of The Wildlife Society, Dave Dudek.

The award is presented to two Fish and Wildlife students who are on track to

Donated photo

graduate in the following spring. The award is designed to recognize outstanding leadership, scholarship, and dedication to the wildlife management profession.

Applicants are scored on their current grade point average; chapter involvement with events such as Big Sweep and Forest Festival Day; and professional development through volunteer experience at natural resource conservation agencies.

828.627.4592.

Jackson-Swain Medical Society awards scholarships Cody Ellis of Bryson City has been named the Jackson-Swain Counties Medical Society Health Care Scholarship recipient.

Ellis is studying health and physical education at Western Carolina University with the hope of becoming a physical therapist one day. A torn labrum in high school and the success of the surgery and subsequent physical therapy led him to pursue this course of study. In addition to being a full-time student he also is a Crossfit coach and competitor at Crossfit 2232 in Bryson City.

The Medical Society grants the scholarship each fall and spring semester to a deserving student who is focusing on a career in healthcare. Anyone interested in applying for the scholarship can contact Medical Staff Services at Harris Regional Hospital at 828.586.7158.

■ Southwestern Community College student Kasey Wilson, of Cullowhee, was recently named a Jim Whitley Memorial Scholarship recipient. The scholarships, worth $600 each, are presented by the North Carolina Association of Respiratory Educators for students majoring in respiratory therapy.

■ Kristen Crosson, formerly director of budgets and financial planning at Western Carolina University, is now serving as assistant vice chancellor for budgets, financial planning and analysis. Crosson holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration, both from North Carolina State University.

■ Southwestern Community College’s therapeutic massage program has a learning clinic open at the Jackson Campus. Clinic appointment times are 3 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays (except Thanksgiving) through Dec. 10. The clinic is located in Room 203 of the Burrell Building. The cost for a 50-minute Swedish massage will be $15 for area residents or $10 for SCC faculty, staff and students as well as students from any area school. To book an appointment, call 828.339.4313.

■ Brett L. Woods, director of the Southwestern Community College Foundation, has once again named as a Certified Fund Raising Executive by CFRE International. “The CFRE credential was created to identify for the public and employers those individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and commitment to perform fundraising duties in an effective and ethical manner,” said Jim Caldarola, CFRE, Immediate Past Chair of CFRE International.

■ Southwestern Community College’s second-year respiratory therapy students brought home the state title at the “Sputum Bowl” held in Wilmington. This year’s team carried on what is becoming a tradition by defending SCC’s state title and advancing to the national competition, which is scheduled for next month in Tampa, Florida. Their instructors are program coordinator Samantha Campbell and Brent Holland.

■ Haywood Community College registration for spring semester 2016 is open through Dec. 1 by appointment only with an advisor. Students may also apply now for scholarships by visiting haywood.academicworks.com.

For more information about scholarships at HCC, call 828.565.4170. For more information about registration, call 828.627.4500.

Opinion In the end, Haywood leaders make the right call H Smoky Mountain News

indsight is indeed 20-20, and this time Haywood County commissioners very likely saw things exactly as they should have.

The plan to sell 55 acres in Haywood County’s industrial park to a start-up recycling sorting company has been scuttled. A press release sent out by the county Monday, Nov. 10, said that the company had withdrawn its offer. With the decision made, it’s way too easy to sit comfortably at my desk with my laptop and write with confidence about why this wasn’t a good idea.

First, the man behind Regional Recycling Solutions just doesn’t have a track record of success. His attempts to start a similar recycling-related business in nearby counties have all met a similar failure as the one proposed in Haywood.

Plus, the company owner’s integrity was called into question when it was learned that the much-anticipated property tax revenue the county was counting on was a pig in a poke.

Recycling companies are exempt from property taxes, and it’s hard to believe RRC owner Ken Allison did not know that, so questions arose about why he did not share that information with Haywood County officials. It’s equally disturbing that the plan got as far as it did without anyone from Haywood County realizing that there would be no property tax revenue.

Then there was the opposition from those who live near the facility. I’m fairly confident that some of that opposition

was politically motivated, it was also clear that many who don’t usually venture into the political arena were very upset about the type of business that was going to open. Those fears may or may not have been validated, but the emotions were very real. It seems those fears did make a difference to commissioners.

Haywood citizens should take it as a good sign that commissioners listened and acted on those concerns.

Another valid point from an economic development standpoint is that, although these jobs were OK, Editor they weren’t great. As one taxpayer expressed to me privately, it just didn’t seem like those courting this firm were setting the bar very high — recycling picking line jobs that would pay mid$30,000 range at best. That’s not bad, but it’s not real good.

So making the argument against this firm — now — is a simple matter. But what if you look at the other side of the coin and consider what might have been lost: was this a potentially viable economic development move that might have brought, over time, up to 75 new full-time jobs in a county that hasn’t created a whole lot of new jobs since the 2007 recession? Did our fears about the who — Ken Allison — and the irrational fears of the NIMBY (not in my back-

Scott McLeod

24

Wednesday, November 11th 2015

Rendezvous Salutes Our Veterans We feed Veterans FREE from 4 to 9pm

3 pieces of fried chicken, garlic mashed potatoes & coleslaw

yard) crowd blind us to a very real opportunity?

Look, I’ll admit that when I first heard that some kind of industrial recycling company was looking at Haywood it sounded exciting. Most people can surmise that we need to develop betters ways to make use of what too often ends up as trash, and that those who figure out how to do that efficiently will likely make a pile of money.

Admitting that, one can see how county leaders who began talking with Allison could have become very excited about the possibilities. Plus, the county invested a lot of money in this particular land just as the recession hit. It had spent more than $700,000 on this land but it had not drawn much attention from potential job developers. It’s incorrect to say Haywood was desperate to sell and create jobs, but any county leader who’s honest will admit that constituents are always prodding them to attract new industry.

Economic development is a tough game. Jobs are a holy grail for elected leaders, the one success that is akin to bringing sustenance to the masses. I won’t disparage county commissioners for entertaining this offer, but I appreciate their decision to turn RRC away after properly vetting the pros and cons.

(Scott McLeod is the publisher/editor of The Smoky Mountain News and also a member of the Haywood County Economic Development Commission. He can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com.)

We Deliver to Maggie Valley & Jonathan Creek

Eat-In - Take Out

828.926.0201

7:30-10:30 am Haywood County Toy Run Breakfast Buffet

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SATURDAY NOV. 14TH JOIN US FROM 2-5

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Saturday, November 14th 2015

PIN HIGH

Traditional Thanksgiving Buffet 11:00 - 2:00 Open to the Public

Reservations are required

tasteTHEmountains Taste the Mountains is an ever-evolving paid section of places to dine in Western North Carolina. If you would like to be included in the listing please contact our advertising department at 828.452.4251 APPLE ANDY'S RESTAURANT 3483 Soco Road, Maggie Valley.

828.944.0626. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday and Saturday. Serving the freshest homemade sandwiches, wraps, and entrees such as country fried steak and grilled flounder. Full salad bar and made from scratch sides like potato salad, pinto beans and macaroni and cheese. www.appleandys.com APPLE CREEK CAFE 32 Felmet St., Waynesville. 828.456.9888.

Open Monday-Friday with lunch form 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and family-style dinner 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Home to an extensive build your own sandwich menu as well as specialty salads, soups burgers and more. With local ingredients and made-from-scratch recipes using a variety of good-for-you ingredients Apple Creek Cafe is sure to become your favorite spot.

BLUE ROOSTER SOUTHERN GRILL 207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde, Lakeside Plaza at the old Wal-Mart. 828.456.1997. Open

828-926-4848

Monday through Friday. Friendly and fun family atmosphere. Local, handmade Southern cuisine. Fresh-cut salads; slow-simmered soups; flame grilled burgers and steaks, and homemade signature desserts.

Blue-plates and local fresh vegetables daily.

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

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

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Carry out available. Located in downtown Waynesville, Bogart’s has been long-time noted for great steaks, soups, and salads. Casual family atmosphere in a rustic old-time setting with a menu noted for its practical value. Live Bluegrass/String Band music every Thursday. Walking distance of Waynesville’s unique shops and seasonal festival activities and within one mile of Waynesville Country Club.

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE 454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch served 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner nightly from 4 p.m. Closed on Sunday. We specialize in hand-cut, all natural steaks, fresh fish, and other classic American comfort foods that are made using only the finest local and sustainable ingredients available. We also feature a great selection of craft beers from local artisan brewers, and of course an extensive selection of small batch bourbons and whiskey. The Barrel is a friendly and casual neighborhood dining

experience where our guests enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank.

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

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

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

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

1819 Country Club Drive, Maggie Valley, NC 318-04

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Smoky Mountain News

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Our Christmas tree will be up!

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WINTER HOURS: Sunday Noon-8 • Open for Dinner Wed.-Sat. at 4:30

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— Real Local People, Real Local Food — 207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde, North Carolina Monday-Friday Open at 11am

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STEAKS • PIZZA SEAFOOD CHICKEN & SANDWICHES 1863 S. Main Street • Waynesville 828.454.5002 Hwy. 19/23 Exit 98

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LUNCH & DINNER TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY

REEKSIDE COYSTER HOUSE & GRILL

tasteTHEmountains CATALOOCHEE RANCH 119 Ranch Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1401. We serve three meals a day on Friday and Saturday, and some Sundays.

Join us for family-style breakfast from 8 to 9:30 a.m. – with eggs, bacon, sausage, grits and oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-you-caneat. Lunch from 12 to 2 p.m. In the evening, social hour begins at 6 p.m. Dinner is served at 7 p.m., with entrees that include prime rib, baked ham and herb-baked chicken, complemented by seasonal vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer a fine selection of wine and beer.

So come enjoy mile-high mountaintop dining with a spectacular view. Please call for reservations and more dining information.

CITY BAKERY 18 N. Main St. Waynesville 828.452.3881.

Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join us in our historic location for scratch made soups and daily specials.

Breakfast is made to order daily: Gourmet cheddar & scallion biscuits served with bacon, sausage and eggs; smoked trout bagel plate; quiche and fresh fruit parfait. We bake a wide variety of breads daily, specializing in traditional french breads. All of our breads are hand shaped. Lunch: Fresh salads, panini sandwiches. Enjoy outdoor dinning on the deck. Private room available for meetings.

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

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

CITY LIGHTS CAFE Spring Street in downtown Sylva.

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

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

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

CHURCH STREET DEPOT 34 Church Street, downtown Waynesville.

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

THE CLASSIC WINESELLER 20 Church Street, Waynesville.

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

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

318-49

CREEKSIDE DINING CRAFT BEER & FULL BAR Daily Specials

CORK & CLEAVER 176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville.

828.456.3551. Reservations recommended.

4:30-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday Sunday brunch 11 a.m. to 2 pm. Tucked away inside Waynesville Inn, Cork & Cleaver has an approachable menu designed around locally sourced, sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients. Chef Ed Kaminski prepares American cuisine from local, organic vegetables grown in Western North Carolina. Full bar and wine cellar. www.thewaynesvilleinn.com .

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

828.926.1820 Open Daily 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., closed Tuesday. Family Style at Country Vittles is not a buffet. Instead our waitresses will bring your food piping hot from the kitchen right to your table and as many refills as you want. So if you have a big appetite, but sure to ask your waitress about our family style service.

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

Lunch Saturday and Sunday noon to 2:30 p.m., dinner nightly starting at 4:30 p.m.

World-famous prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood, gorgonzola cheese and salads. All ABC permits and open year-round. Children always welcome. Take-out menu. Excellent service and hospitality. Reservations appreciated.

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

828.648.4193. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday

Thanksgiving by the fire, not by the stove.

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

% s OPEN ALL WINTER! 3483 SOCO RD. MAGGIE VALLEY 828.944.0626

Winter Hours: Open 9-5 Closed Wed. & Thurs.

Smoky Mountain News

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119 Ranch Drive, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 | Seatings at 12:00 Noon, 3:00 and 7:00.

THE BEST PLACE TO EAT IN FRANKLIN.

TUESDAY: 75¢ Oysters after 4pm WEDNESDAY: AYCE Fish & Shrimp THURSDAY: AYCE Crab Leg FRIDAY: Surf-N-Turf Special SATURDAY: Seafood Trio SUNDAY: Low Country Boil

All You Can Eat Buffet

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11am-9:30pm

Lunch Buffet $7.99 - Dinner & Sunday Buffet $10.99

Serving Food until 10 p.m. Weekdays and until 11 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays Closed Mondays

828.586.1985

438 Skyland Drive • Sylva Exit 85 to Skyland Dr., two blocks from McDonalds

26

Cataloochee Ranch

Open 7 Days A Week

Fri & Sat Sun- Thu

DINE-IN OR CARRYOUT BUFFET OR MENU

www.asian-king-franklin-nc.com 109 Commons Dr., AK

Franklin, NC Next to the new Super Walmart & Verizon

828.349.9800

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

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

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

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

828.926.1616. maggievalleyclub.com/dine.

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

ORGANIC BEANS COFFEE COMPANY 1110 Soco Road, Maggie Valley.

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

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

PAPERTOWN GRILL 153 Main St., Canton. 828.648.1455 Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Serving the local community with great, scratch-made country cooking. Breakfast is served all day.

Daily specials including Monday meatloaf, chicken and dumplings on Thursdays and Friday fish.

ROB’S HOT DOG SHACK 42 Montgomery St., Waynesville 828.707.7033. Open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rob’s serves gourmet hot dogs and has homemade side items. Outdoor and indoor dining, café style restaurant. Locally owned and operated.

Family oriented business.

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

Reservations appreciated.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN SUB SHOP 29 Miller Street Waynesville 828.456.3400.

Open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. A Waynesville tradition, the Smoky Mountain Sub Shop has been serving great food for over 20 years. Come in and enjoy the relaxed, casual atmosphere. Sub breads are baked fresh every morning in Waynesville. Using only the freshest ingredients in home-made soups, salads and sandwiches. Come in and see for yourself why Smoky Mountain Sub Shop was voted # 1 in Haywood County.

Locally owned and operated.

PATIO BISTRO 30 Church Street, Waynesville.

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

Outdoor and indoor dining.

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR Maggie Valley Inn and Conference Center 828.926.0201 Open Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m and Sunday 7:30 a.m to 9 p.m. Full service restaurant serving steaks, prime rib, seafood and dinner specials.

breakfast at

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

TWIN MAPLES FARMHOUSE 63 North Hill Street, Waynesville.

828.452.7837. Open for Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located just two blocks from downtown Waynesville, Twin Maples is available for weddings, receptions, family reunions, birthday parties, showers, luncheons, corporate meetings and retreats.

SOUTHERN BOOT, LOUISIANA CUISINE 67 Branner Avenue, Waynesville.

828.246.0053 Lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dinner 5 to 9 p.m. Closed Wednesday & Sunday. Southern Boot serves delicious Louisianian food while providing a friendly music venue for musicians of all ages. Feel at home no matter where you’re from. Greeting all customers at the door with a smile.

VITO’S PIZZA 607 Highlands Rd., Franklin. 828.369.9890.

Established here in in 1998. Come to Franklin and enjoy our laid back place, a place you can sit back, relax and enjoy our 62” HDTV. Our Pizza dough, sauce, meatballs, and sausage are all made from scratch

by Vito. The recipes have been in the family for 50 years (don't ask for the recipes cuz’ you won't get it!) Each Pizza is hand tossed and made with TLC. You're welcome to watch your pizza being created.

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

Open seven days a week. Monday-Friday 11

November 11-17, 2015

We invite you to join what has become a tradition in these parts...

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

Located across from the Fire Station.

Twin Maples F•A•R•M•H•O•U•S•E

Join Us for 3-Course Thanksgiving Dinner Noon-3:30 p.m. $28/person Plus tax & gratuity ~ LIMITED SEATING ~ CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

Sunday Brunch — 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Reservations Accepted

828.452.7837

3 blocks from Main St. in Waynesville

WINTER HOURS: November - February Open Fri. - Mon. 7 am until 12 pm

facebook.com/smnews

Open for Breakfast MON.-SAT. 8 A.M. 3 E JACKSON ST. • SYLVA, NC

www.CityLightsCafe.com

mobile technology to help you get a lot less mobile.

318-47

(828) 926-0212

63 N. HILL ST.

Smoky Mountain News

4309 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley

Serving top notch breakfasts coupled with good old fashioned customer service since 1966

Log on. Plan a trip.

And start kicking back.

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A&E

Smoky Mountain News

Cruisin’ the road of creativity

T

he 14th annual “Stecoah Arts & Crafts Drive About Tour” will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 27-28 in Bryson City, Stecoah and Robbinsville.

With their studios open to the public, the self-guided driving tour highlights artisans who have built a livelihood with their creative talents. Media include pottery, bee's wax lanterns and pillar candles, original paintings and drawings, fiber, quilts, photography, artisan cheeses and more.

The tour includes the following: CHARLES HEATH GALLERY Heath works in several mediums including oil, acrylic, watercolor, pen and ink, and photography. 175 Everett Street, Bryson City. 828.538.2054.

ELIZABETH ELISON WATERCOLORS Featured work by Elison and Ann Smith.

Original oil-on-canvas, watercolor, mixed media and handmade paper assemblages, all inspired by nature. 155 Main Street, Bryson City. 828.488.8782.

PINCU POTTERY Handmade pottery for the artful table.

Functional, beautiful and inspired by the beauty of Western North Carolina. 80 N.C. 28 South, Bryson City.

828.488.0480.

SLEEPY HALLOW FARM Basketry on dyed gourds using rattan, cane, sea grass and natural plants.

Seasonal vegetables, fruits and berries.

164 Sleepy Hollow Road, Bryson City.

828.736.5078.

WILD FERN STUDIOS & GALLERY Handmade baskets from hand dyed reed, cane, and paper. Gallery also includes handcrafted pottery, jewelry, soap and metal work. 19A Everett Street, Bryson City. 828.736.1605.

BEE GLOBAL STUDIO GALLERY Experience art and nature: a working candle studio gallery featuring beeswax creations and other handmade treasures. 1633 Lower Stecoah Road (off N.C. 28), Stecoah. 828.479.8284.

STECOAH ARTISANS GALLERY Wide variety of traditional and contemporary art and craft: paintings, pottery, weaving, wood, glass, photographs, jewelry and more. In the Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, 121 Schoolhouse Rd (off N.C. 28), Stecoah. 828.479.3098.

YELLOW BRANCH POTTERY & CHEESE Hand-thrown functional stoneware pottery and Yellow Branch Farmstead Cheeses. Tour the working pottery studio and sample locally made cheeses.

Yellow Branch Road and 1073 Old Yellow Branch Road (off N.C. 28), Stecoah. 828.479.1042.

HUNTING BOY WOOD CARVING Native crafts & chain saw art. River cane and white oak baskets, pottery, handmade jewelry. Hand-carved wood and chain saw art by Billy Welch. 2698 Snowbird Road (off N.C. 143 West), Robbinsville. 828.479.9554.

WEHRLOOM HONEY & ESSENTIALS Locally made varietal honeys, candles, and skin care products. Crafts made by local artisans. 257 Willie Colvin Road, Robbinsville. 828.735.2300.

TAYLOR’S GREENHOUSE A love of Mother Nature’s bounty, this 48-year-old nursery/greenhouse family business includes container gardens, along with any kind of vegetable and bedding plants, herbs, shrubs and tress.

Specializing in heirlooms. 3231 Tallulah Road (N.C. 129 South), Robbinsville.

828.479.3997.

The Schoolhouse Café at Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center will be open during both days of the Artisans Drive About. The Hub and Lynn’s Place in Robbinsville, and the Cork & Bean and The Filling Station in Bryson City will also be participating, with tour brochures available at their locations. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

Top: Elizabeth Elison Watercolors. Left: Elise Delfield of Pincu Pottery. Above: Sleepy Hallow Farm. Below: Stecoah Artisans Gallery.

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

Garret K. Woodward photo

“had that something� which showed my destiny and potential in journalism. He showed all of us that if you truly love what you do, then you’ll never work a day in your life.

I’m still good friends with all of these great people above, and will always be. To all you teachers out there, never underestimate your influence on your students, because someone, somewhere in your classroom, is hanging on your every word, ready to take on the world with the power of love, compassion and determination you put forth in your own endeavors.

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

HOT PICKS Thanksgiving Day Buffet 1 2 3

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November 11-17, 2015

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Smoky Mountain News

It’s the most important job outside of the home.

Teachers. Those folks in front of the classroom trying to make sense of the world around you, tryFrog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will have ing to push you into new realms of Lucid (rock/funk) at 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13. your thought process, all while Free. balancing common sense, critical The Balsam Mountain Roller Girls will host the thinking and camaraderie with “Butterbrawl Invitational� on Sunday, Nov. 15 your peers. at the Smoky Mountain Sk8way & Fun Zone Growing up in a teaching in Waynesville. household (my mother a 34-year special education teacher, with my No Name Sports Pub (Sylva) will have Dirty sister now at an elementary Soul Revival (rock/blues) at 9 p.m. Friday, school), I knew right from the Nov. 20. Free. beginning not only how important teachers are, but also how selfless The sixth annual Taste of Sylva culinary tour the profession is. Teaching doesn’t will run from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in end when the bell rings and kids downtown restaurants and in the pavilion at head for the bus. Teaching is a McGuire Gardens on West Main Street.

24/7 career, one in which only the Tipping Point Brewing (Waynesville) will have strong survive, and those that do Red Leg Husky (Americana) at 8 p.m. Friday, can, and will, set fire to the minds Nov. 20. Free. of tomorrow.

For me, the foundation of team in seventh grade, he took me under his becoming a journalist was my unrelenting wing, pushing me, academically and athletithirst for knowledge and experience. I want cally, to always keep my eye on the ball. The to know everything, not in an arrogant way, man could bring the house down with his but in a never-ending curiosity for all things passionate speeches to our team about discibeautiful and true. And all of that started pline, achieving your goals, and what it with those unforgettable teachers who posmeans to be a member of a productive sociesessed the keys to the cosmos, ready to ty. It was about fulfilling your potential, unlock whatever door one might find themwhere he would constantly quote the late, selves knocking on. great runner Steve Prefontaine, “To give less • Mr. Power — ninth-grade English, than your best, is to sacrifice the gift.â€? The cross-country/track. My teacher, mentor, image of him, standing on the side of the coach, and longtime family friend, Mr. P (as track, screaming at the top of his lungs for we called him) has been in my life since I me to run harder — “You’ve got this,â€? he’d was born. When I joined the cross-country

Growing up in a teaching household, I knew right from the beginning not only how important teachers are, but also how selfless the profession is.

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

dream of becoming a writer, one who wants to inspire folks the same way she did for me. • Professor Venit — College, broadcast journalism. Now, anyone who knows him knows that the guy is a true legend in his field, one whose shadow on Connecticut journalism is as big as his heart. He and I got along the moment I stepped into his newsroom. He always believed in me, telling me I

yell as I rounded the curve towards the finish line — is something I carry in my mind as I continue along this journey called “life.�

That, and nobody could ever top his classroom renditions of Arthur Miller plays. • Mr. Gallagher — ninth-grade art.

Beyond the fact he was a beloved educator, he also owned the largest collection of Rolling Stone magazines I’ve ever come across, many of which he eventually gave to me. Mr. Gallagher would let me borrow and read all of those old copies on his classroom shelves, issues that had a huge influence on my budding obsession with music. And the mere fact he would not only talk at length with me about music, but also would introduce to me to so many great groups (Supertramp being the most notable). He also gave me his original vinyl copy of Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,â€? which I still own. I was a pretty nerdy, scrawny and odd kid in ninth-grade, and he always made me feel accepted and “coolâ€? when I would get excited in conversations about music. • Ms. Boire — 11th grade English. The exact reason I became a writer. Having never really had an interest in reading or writing more than what I was assigned in school, Ms. Boire made those books and characters come to life. Her sincere and deep love of literature sparked something in me that still burns bright today. I’ll never forget that first day in her homeroom class. She blew in the door, all smiles, ready and roaring to get us excited to learn. That enthusiasm struck the depths of my soul. And, in the years since I graduated, she’s always championed my

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On the beat arts & entertainment

‘David Holt’s State of Music’ at WCU

Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet at WCU

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

The Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet will perform at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, in the recital hall of the Coulter Building at Western Carolina University.

The concert will feature music from the many countries visited by the quintet since its founding in 1993. As cultural ambassadors for WCU, the Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet has performed in

China, Ireland, Wales, England, Russia, Germany, Romania, Hungary, Czech Republic and Jamaica.

In addition to the international flavor of music performed, a slideshow before the concert and during intermission will visually highlight the quintet’s travel experiences.

Members of the ensemble, the quintetin-residence at WCU, are P. Bradley Ulrich, trumpet; David Ginn, trumpet; Travis Bennett, horn; Mike Schallock, tuba; and Zsolt Szabo, trombone. www.smbq.org or 828.227.3274.

WHITTERS TO PERFORM AT THE STRAND Pop/space country singer-songwriter Hailey Whitters will perform at 6 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 15, at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville. Recently featured on the popular TV show ‘Nashville,’ Whitters moved to real life Nashville in 2007 and signed with Carnival Music in 2012. Since then she has shared stages with Josh Thompson, Randy Houser, Jo Dee Messina, Casey Donahew Band and Chris Knight. She has also garnered critical acclaim in Nashville's music community. Tickets are $10 on advance, $12 day of show. www.38main.com.

‘LAST BELLY DANCER ON EARTH’ IN WAYNESVILLE

The Black Heart Belly Dance “Last Belly Dancer On Earth” performance will be at 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville.

Experimental, theatrical, belly dance performance art fusion “excavated from the deep dark bottom of our little black hearts.” Tickets are $10 per person. www.38main.com.

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Acclaimed musicians David Holt and Rhiannon Giddens will perform at WCU on Nov. 22.

Donated photo

“David Holt’s State of Music — Live” will take to the stage from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, in the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center at Western Carolina University.

Acts scheduled to join Holt, an icon of traditional music and storytelling, are international sensation Rhiannon Giddens of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, award-winning bluegrass favorites Balsam Range, emerging ballad singer Josh Goforth, and the AfricanAmerican gospel duo of Wilbur Tharpe and Lena Mae Perry, performing as The Branchettes.

The afternoon performance will be videotaped as a companion piece to the PBS series of the same name. The show is an exciting opportunity to see modern masters of oldtime music share their stories and tunes.

“This is not only the first time all these artists will be on stage together, but it will be the only time they will get together,” said George Brown, dean of WCU’s College of Fine and Performing Arts. “Rhiannon Giddens is completing an international tour to come back for this special event. Balsam Range, homegrown and a favorite everywhere they play, was honored as the 2014 International Bluegrass Music Association entertainers of the year and group of the year. This much talent at one time

and in one place is extraordinary.”

The performance also celebrates 10 years of the Bardo Arts Center at WCU. The $30 million facility opened in 2005 and was named for former WCU Chancellor John Bardo in 2011. Its elegant 1,000-seat performance hall, with fine-tuned acoustics and state-of-the-art lighting system, is a premier venue for concert and theatrical productions, and ideal for this old-time music show.

Through “David Holt’s State of Music,” TV viewers are introduced to traditional music of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Recipient of four Grammy Awards, Holt has filled the roles of musician, storyteller, historian and TV and radio host over a career that has spanned more than three decades. The PBS series sprang from an hour-long UNC-TV special in January on the music of Southern Appalachia, and has been expanded for a nationwide audience with six 30-minute segments.

The WCU show is sponsored by Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, with support from WCU’s Friends of the Arts and the College of Fine and Performing Arts. Admission is $45 for orchestra seats and $35 for club and balcony seats. www.bardoartscenter.wcu.edu or 828.227.2479.

On the beat

Renowned bluegrass act Balsam Range will perform at KARE’s sixth annual Festival of Trees Thursday, Nov. 19, at Laurel Ridge County Club in Waynesville.

The 2014 International Bluegrass Music Association “Entertainer of the Year,” the group will entertain for the Kids Advocacy Resource Effort, a nonprofit center providing services to child victims of abuse and their families. The center also offers parenting classes and skill-building activities.

The event will begin with a 5:30 p.m. cocktail hour, with dinner and live auction to follow. The Creative Tree Challenge will be on

• Balsam Mountain Inn will have Marshall Chapman, Tommy Womack and Will Kimbrough as part of their Songwriters in the Round series at 6 p.m. Nov. 14. $47 per person, which includes a buffet dinner.

828.456.9498 or www.balsammountaininn.com.

• BearWaters Brewing Company (Waynesville) will have Calvin Get Down at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 21. www.bwbrewing.com.

ALSO:

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will have Lucid (rock/funk) 9 p.m. Nov. 13, Small Town Jonathan Martin (singer-songwriter) 8 p.m.

Nov. 20 and Jacked Up Joe 8 p.m. Nov. 21. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m.

828.454.5664 or www.froglevelbrewing.com.

• Mad Anthony’s Bottle Shop & Beer Garden (Waynesville) will have Summer Jones Band (pop/acoustic) 9 p.m. Nov. 12. Free.

• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will hold community music jam from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 19. Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer, anything unplugged, are invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen. Free. 828.488.3030.

• Mixers Bar & Nightclub (Franklin) will have Longshot (rock) Nov. 14 and Broken Glass

Nov. 21. All shows begin at 9 p.m.

828.369.9211.

• No Name Sports Pub (Sylva) will have Brother Hawk and PMA (jam/rock) Nov. 12, PMA Nov. 14, Dirty Soul Revival (rock/blues) Nov. 20 and Shane Meade & The Sound (Americana/rock) Nov. 21. All shows are free and begin at 9 p.m.

• A back porch old-time music jam will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee. All welcome to come play or simply sit and listen to sounds of Southern Appalachia.

• The Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub will have David Spangler Nov. 13, DJ Justin Moe Nov. 14 and Joe Cat Nov. 20. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.rathskellerfranklin.com.

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will have Jimandi (folk/rock) every Wednesday at 7 p.m. and a rotating series of local performers on Fridays at 9 p.m. 828.482.9794 or www.satulahmountainbrewing.com.

• Salty Dog’s (Maggie Valley) will have Karaoke with Jason Wyatt at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and 8 p.m. on Fridays, and Mile High at 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. All events will run through the month of November. The Randy Mason Band will play at 8 p.m. Nov. 14 • Tipping Point Brewing (Waynesville) will have Ashli Rose (singer-songwriter) Nov. 13 and Red Leg Husky (Americana) Nov. 20. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.tippingpointtavern.com.

• Tuck’s Tap & Grill (Cullowhee) will have a “College Night” with DJ X at 10 p.m. Nov. 12 and 19, Bobby Sullivan Trio 9 p.m. Nov. 13 and WCU “Battle of the Bands” 9 p.m.

Nov. 20.

• Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will have Rye Baby (Americana/bluegrass) Nov. 13 and Dustin Martin & The Ramblers (Americana) Nov. 14. All shows begin at 9 p.m.

Smoky Mountain News

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will have an Open Mic night Nov. 11 and 18, and a jazz night with the Kittle/Collings Duo Nov. 12 and 19. All events begin at 8 p.m. www.innovation-brewing.com.

display throughout the event, where local designers and community members compete to raise monies for KARE. Tickets are available at www.karehouse.org.

828.456.8995.

November 11-17, 2015

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will have James Hammel (guitar/jazz) Nov. 13, Peggy Ratouz & Michael Jefry Stevens (jazz/blues) Nov. 14, ‘Round the Fire (Grateful Dead tribute) Nov. 19, Bob Zullo (pop/jazz) Nov. 20 and Joe Cruz (piano/pop) Nov. 21. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m.

828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

arts & entertainment

Balsam Range to play KARE benefit

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Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

arts & entertainment

On the street Haywood motorcycle parade, toy run The 24th annual Haywood County Motorcycle Parade and Toy Run will take place Nov. 14.

The annual event raises toys and funds for the children of Haywood County. The Toy Run is the long time result of collaboration between local bikers, Haywood County law enforcement, Wheels Through Time Museum and the town of Canton.

The town of Canton and Evergreen will again host the registration activities of the parade at the Town Hall parking lots. Registration will open at 10 a.m. and run until 11:45 a.m. Cost to participate remains unchanged at $10 per person per bike or a new unwrapped toy of equal or greater value per person per bike. The parade will begin moving at high noon and will traverse the municipalities of Haywood County before terminating once again at host Wheels Through Time Museum. The parade will be under the escort of various Haywood County law enforcement agencies throughout.

Over the course of the 23 years of the parade, more than $155,000 has been

raised by bikers along with untold numbers of toys. The proceeds are distributed by Haywood County DSS, Haywood Christian Ministries, and the Salvation Army along with individual donations by parade organizers to child-relevant nonprofit organizations such as REACH and Kare. The Community Kitchens in both Waynesville and Canton have also received financial support to provide Christmas tidings for children. In good weather years, the parade consistently draws in excess of 1,000 motorcycles and often feeds 2,000 registrants.

For individuals not riding motorcycles but wishing to support the Toy Run, Rendezvous Restaurant in Maggie will again sponsor a breakfast the morning of the event with proceeds going to the Toy Run. Registration for the Parade and purchase of this year’s Parade and Toy Run shirt will also be available on days leading up to the Toy Run. A post ride party will also occur at Rendezvous. The annual Toy Run shirt is sponsored by various entities and individuals and covers the full cost of the shirts. All proceeds of the shirt sales go to the children. A limited number of past years’ shirts will also be available in Canton and Maggie.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS JOIN US AS WE WELCOME

Jennifer Jacobson of Wells Funeral Homes, Inc. & Cremation Services of Waynesville.

“From Funeral Service to the Finish Line:” An in-depth look into the life of a wife, mother, funeral director and triathlete.

HOST SPONSOR:

• A wine tasting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m.

Nov. 11 and 18 at The Classic Wineseller in Waynesville. Free with dinner ($15 minimum). 828.452.6000.

Tuesday, November 17 • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

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ALSO:

LAUREL RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB $25/Chamber Members

eaturing local food, music and children’s activities, the sixth annual Taste of Sylva culinary tour will run from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in downtown Sylva restaurants and in the pavilion at McGuire Gardens on West Main Street.

Twelve local restaurants will participate, providing a “taste” of menu items to patrons who get to experience almost all the culinary variety Sylva has to offer in a single afternoon.

Downtown restaurants participating at their own locations include City Lights Cafe, Cosmic Carryout, Guadalupe Cafe, Lulu’s on Main, Mad Batter Food and Film, Evolution Wine Kitchen, Signature Brew, and Sylva Convenient Market and General Store. Sylva restaurants located at McGuire Gardens will include Creekside Oyster House & Grill, Jack the Dipper and Harris Regional Hospital. Eric’s Fish Market will be hosted at Tonic where participants can participate in a fish and beer pairing.

The event is sponsored by the Mainstreet Sylva Association. All proceeds will benefit community programs and initiatives.

Tickets are on sale now at participating restaurants. They are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Youth price is $10 for ages 12 and under. www.mainstreetsylva.org.

• The Balsam Mountain Roller Girls will host the “Butterbrawl Invitational” on Nov. 15 at the Smoky Mountain Sk8way & Fun Zone in Waynesville. Four bouts starting at noon and running through 5 p.m. $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Free for ages 5 and under. There will also be a canned food and coat drive with all donations going to the Haywood Christian Ministries. www.balsammountainrollergirls.com.

—————————————————————————

This will be our last luncheon of 2015 and will follow the year’s theme of Stop and Smell a ROSE. The E in ROSE stands for Endurance, which will be Jennifer’s topic.

Taste of Sylva spotlights chefs, collaborations

$30/Non-Members 318-26

• The Veteran’s Day Parade will be Nov. 11 in downtown Franklin. 828.524.2516.

• There will be a “Tasty Tuesday: Winter Seasonals” at 7 p.m. Nov. 17 and 24 at Mad Anthony’s Bottle Shop & Beer Garden.

• The Polar Express themed train will celebrate the holiday season Nov. 13-14, 20-22 and 24-25 at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot in Bryson City. The classic children’s book comes to life as the train departs for a special visit at the "North Pole." Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. The train arrives to find Santa Claus waiting.

Santa boards the train, greeting each child and presenting them with their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to the depot. www.gsmr.com or 800.872.4681.

On the street

828-456-6111

www.selecthomeswnc.com

Smoky Mountain News

and Islam. Ron’s music explores the cultural history of the Middle East, from which all three religions emerged.

Concert tickets are available in advance through the Lake Junaluska registration office at 800.222.4930 for $15 each; children 12 and under are free.

The Lake Junaluska Peace Conference will be feature three keynote speakers: Rabia Terri Harris, founder of the Muslim Peace Fellowship, the first organization specifically devoted to Islamic active nonviolence; Rabbi Or Rose, founding director of the Center for Global Judaism at Hebrew College and codirector of the Center for Interreligious and Community Leadership Education, a joint venture of Hebrew College and Andover Newton Theological School; and Rev. Dr. Sam Wells, vicar of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, London and former Dean of Duke University Chapel and research professor of Christian ethics at Duke Divinity School.

Registration for the conference is $145.

Students may attend for $60. www.lakejunaluska.com/peace or 800.222.4930.

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

Call or click for available properties

November 11-17, 2015

Yuval Ron. Donated photo

Solid Surface Specialists

62 Communications Dr., Waynesville • Appointments Suggested

Their property management team has gone above and beyond to give me the tools I need as a tenant. Their online rent payment system is easy and efficient.” -K. Fuller

318-12

World music artist, composer and peace activist Yuval Ron will appear in concert with his international ensemble of musicians at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center’s Stuart Auditorium. The ensemble will also perform throughout the weekend for attendees of the Lake Junaluska Peace Conference, which will be held Nov. 12-15.

The theme of this year’s Peace Conference is “Longing for Peace/Exploring the Heart of God,” and it features speakers from all three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity

WNC's Largest Selection of Granite & Quartz.

Helping You Find Your Next Rental Home “I love renting from Select Homes!!

arts & entertainment

Lake Junaluska celebrates unity at Peace Conference

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Smoky Mountain News November 11-17, 2015

arts & entertainment

On the stage arts & entertainment

TerKeurst to bring message of faith to Franklin Lysa TerKeurst will be in Franklin on Nov. 20. Donated photo

Honest | Hardworking | Humble

My thanks to all who supported me during the election. I am honored to have met so many wonderful people over the course of the campaign and my life is so much richer for it!

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• The “Showcase of Talentâ€? will be at 7 p.m.

Nov. 14 at the Franklin High School Fine Arts Building. Macon County's student stars

shine in the annual non-competitive performing arts showcase with talented 3-12 graders chosen from Macon County public, private and home schools performing a variety of entertaining acts. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 youth under the age of 16.

Proceeds support our Artists-in-the-Schools Program. www.franklin-chamber.com. • The one-man play “Mercy Killersâ€? will be presented by its author Michael Milligan at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, in the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University.

Milligan portrays blue-collar worker Joe, grappling with his red state ideals when he realizes the measures he must take to care for his beloved wife. A surprisingly tender love story, “Mercy Killers� is an unblinking look at health care in America. Admission will be free for students with ID; $10 general admission. www.mercykillerstheplay.com.

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• The classic Noel Coward comedy “Blithe Spiritâ€? will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18-21 and at 3 p.m. Nov. 22 in the Hoey Auditorium at Western Carolina University.

The story describes the conflict when mystery writer Charles Condomine accidently brings his dead wife back into an earthly sphere while researching a new book. Then his ghostly wife attempts to lure him away from his new wife and into the afterlife with her. Tickets will be $16 for adults; $11 for senior citizens, faculty and staff; and for students, $10 day of show or $7 in advance.

828.227.2479 or www.bardoartscenter.wcu.edu.

www.ElectJonFeichter.com November 11-17, 2015

Acclaimed faith speaker Lysa TerKeurst will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, at the Smoky Mountain Center of the Performing Arts in Franklin.

TerKeurst is president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and the New York Times best-selling author of The Best Yes, Unglued, Made to Crave, and 16 other books. She’s inspiring and faithful and has a gentle soul that shines goodness everywhere she goes.

TerKeurst’s personal journey to follow God captured national media attention when she and her husband adopted two teenage boys from a war-torn orphanage in Liberia, Africa.

They never imagined their decision would start a chain reaction within their community, which inspired other families to adopt over 45 children from the same orphanage.

TerKeurst’s story led to appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The 700 Club, and Focus on the Family radio, as well as in publications such as USA Today and Woman’s Day. Musical guest Michael O’Brien is a much-accomplished music veteran most known for his seven-year tenure as lead singer of the Christian band, NewSong. Now he leads worship at various events, leads marriage enrichment nights, and travels with friends such as Lysa TerKeurst.

Tickets start at $15. www.greatmountainmusic.com or 866.273.4615.

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arts & entertainment

On the wall The Rickman Store in Franklin.

Want to make your own glass ornament?

‘Spoonman’ woodcarving demo

Heritage festival in Swain The Heritage Arts Holiday Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 14 at Southwestern Community College in Bryson City.

This event will feature many vendors offering jewelry, woodwork, painting, beadwork, knitting, quilts, lots of the pottery from the Heritage Arts ceramics program and more. For your entertainment, there’ll be music by Frank Lee and Alma, clogging by the Tangled Feet Stompers, line dancing by the In-Step Dancers, and printmaking and pottery demonstrations.

Kids can go on a treasure hunt and, for a small fee, decorate a Christmas ornament. Adults can glaze and raku fire a vase (small fee). For lunch, the Backwoods Bakery will be making wood-fired pizza.

Free. www.greatsmokies.com.

November 11-17, 2015

to Old Cowee School, where visitors can find additional parking. The store opens on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

828.369.5595.

DAVID HOLT’S

There will be an exhibit and demonstration by woodworker Francis Chicoine at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Rickman Store in Franklin.

“Spoonman” Chicoine, talented craftsmen of Rose Creek, will be carving unique spoons, buttons and pendants made of selected pieces of laurel, locust, hickory, walnut, sourwood and many other varieties. Each artistic piece is finished with walnut oil or beeswax to reveal with elegance the natural grain of the woods.

The historic Rickman Store is located on 259 Cowee Creek Road in Cowee Community, seven miles north of Franklin by N.C. 28 next

A “Glass Ornament” class will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro.

Time slots are available throughout the day, with each lasting 30 minutes. With the assistance of a resident artist, participants will work with molten glass to create a unique and beautiful piece of glass art. Cost is $30.

828.631.0271 or www.jcgep.org.

• The Waynesville Public Art Commission recently purchased a quilt from the Shady Ladies, which was then presented to the Town of Waynesville. A plaque was also given to David Blevins for his active participation on the WPAC since 2008.

The WPAC is a proud supporter of the arts, with numerous pieces being acquired over the years from artists and organizations to then be installed and displayed around the community.

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STATE OF MUSIC

Smoky Mountain News

Sunday, November 22, 3 P.M. Bardo Arts Center Bardoartscenter.wcu.edu

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Josh Goforth The Branchettes Rhiannon Giddens A proud sponsor of the Arts

On the wall

David Mesimer (828) 452-2815

Auto ~ Home Life ~ Retirement

• A “Nolen’s Tote” basket class with Joanne Nolen will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Nov. 21 at the Cooperative Extension Building in Franklin. Bring webbing. Pail, sponge, hand towel, snips or old scissors, ice pick or awl, cloth tape measure, and sack lunch. Fee is $25. Register by Nov. 17 by calling 828.524.ARTS. www.franklin-chamber.com.

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and Design. Tickets are $3 for adults, $1 for students. www.38main.com.

• A Scherenschnitte class (German art of paper cutting) will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, at the Jackson County Extension Office in Sylva. Talented instructor and paper artist Lawrie Williams will be teaching how to create Holiday ornaments and Tablescapes with this unique craft. A light egg salad sandwich lunch will be provided by Williams. Contact the Jackson County Extension Office at 828.586.4009 to register and for the supply list. Cost is $5.

• The films “Terminator: Genysis” (Nov. 1214, 19) and “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” (Nov. 20-21) will be screened at Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva. Showtimes are 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with a 2 p.m. matinee also on Saturday. Free. For a full schedule of dates and times, click on www.madbatterfoodandfilm.com.

• “Mr. Holmes” will be screened at 7 p.m. Nov. 13, 4 and 7 p.m. Nov. 14, 2 p.m. Nov. 15 and 7 p.m. Nov. 17-18 at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville. Tickets are $6.50, with a $3.25 matinee pass for 2 and 4 p.m. showings. www.38main.com or call 828.283.0079.

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Smoky Mountain News

• The Haywood County Arts Council, The Strand and Western Carolina University have partnered to present .MOV: Experiments in Sensory Design, which will be screened at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at The Strand in Waynesville. MOV is a collaborative project between the School of Music and the School of Art and Design at Western Carolina University. The event features original, professionally produced student works including animations, digital media music, video, motion graphics, information graphics, and other kinds of media mixed experiments created in and outside of coursework. A Q&A session will be held after the film by project coordinator Jon Jicha, Professor of Art in the School of Art and Design, and Mary Anna Lafratta, Associate Professor, School of Art

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The Jackson County Arts Council will be hosting an art exhibit opening for Jon Jicha from 7 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, in the Rotunda Gallery at the Historic Jackson County Courthouse in Sylva.

Jicha is a Professor of Art in the School of Art and Design at Western Carolina University where he teaches Design and Media Art. His work has been featured in Metropolis Magazine, Print Magazine, Art Direction Magazine and National Geographic Magazine. He has curated and

organized major exhibitions including Tibor Kalman: Process; April Greiman: Large Scale Posters; Rudolph DeHarak: A Thirty year Retrospective; Chew on It: New Genre Hybrid Language; We Are Happy to Serve You; Thinking Design: An Appetite for Meaningful Design; Drawing: Points of View; Cleveland Rocks: The Birthplace of Rock and Roll / Photographs of George Shuba.

Jicha's work is included in private and public collections including the Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.; Coburg Museum, Bavaria, Germany; Littleton Collection, Spruce Pine; South Carolina Arts Commission Collection, Columbia, South Carolina. www.jonjicha.com

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38

Books

Smoky Mountain News

Four short reviews to help clear the desk n the last month, my reading of books has outstripped my reviews. Consequently, stacks of books surround the desk at which I write — a huge, old-fashioned roll-top that long ago lost its roll-top and wears many scars and age spots, much like me.

So I’ll throw on a construction worker’s helmet, crank up the dozer, and get to work.

First up is Tim Holland’s Rubicon: The Last Years of the Roman Republic. One of the more dated books I’ve read — Rubicon was published in 2003 — Holland’s musings on the transformation of the Roman Republic to Empire in the first Writer century B.C. left a mark on my thinking.

Although I first selected the book for reading because I teach Latin and history, I found that Holland’s account of the demise and wreckage of the Roman Republic struck a chord with our own contemporary troubles. The Romans of this period were very different from my fellow Americans — much more violent, much more openly ambitious, much more shamelessly greedy — and yet we share commonalities: the dying away of old ideals, the influence of wealth on elections, the replacement of participation in the state with bread and circuses, that is, entertainment.

Jared Brock’s A Year of Living Prayerfully: How a Curious Traveler Met the Pope, Walked on Coals, Danced with Rabbis, and Revived His Prayer Life (2015) was informative, amusing, and somewhat annoying. Brock writes that he “wanted to spice up my prayer life,” and he does so, traveling to Rome and Jerusalem, living with the monks on Mount Athos in Greece, walking the Camino De Santiago in Spain, interviewing Quakers in the United States, and even visiting Westboro Baptist Church, who aren’t really Baptists but who are the idiots who picket the funerals of

Jeff Minick

I

dead soldiers with signs like “God Hates Fags” and “Thank God for Dead Soldiers.”

Brock writes with verve and wit, and he seems sincere in his wish to bring people to

prayer and to God, but there are so many similar works of literature in the last 10 years — The Year of Living Biblically, The Year of Living Blonde, The Year of Living Virtuously, plus accounts of marathon reading of various encyclopedias and literary canons — that the book somehow felt jaded. (I wonder: should I write a book called A Year of Living Licentiously: How a Curious Traveler Encountered 365 Days of Booze, Tobacco, and Women).

William Hazelgrove’s Real Santa (2014) tells the story of George Kronenfeldt, a man whose life is falling apart but who is determined to preserve his daughter’s belief in Santa Claus. The premise of Hazelgrove’s novel seems unlikely from the first few pages because 1) George’s daughter Megan seems much too precocious to proclaim to her schoolmates that she will film Santa Claus in action on Christmas Eve and 2) George, eccentric as he is, has recently been fired and seems unlikely to spend his entire savings hiring a film crew, a team of reindeer, and a sled to convince his daughter that Santa Claus exists. Nonetheless, I enjoyed this novel, in part because I believe in Santa Claus.

(Hey, I’m a Catholic and know the story of St. Nicholas, which you can look up online.

There is a Santa Claus).

In Personal (2014), Lee Child

brings us yet another novel of Jack Reacher, the retired military cop who travels around the United States — and now Europe — without luggage, not even a change of clothes, but who again and again confronts criminals. In this case, Reacher pursues a sniper who may have tried to assassinate the president of France, a sniper with whom Reacher has a personal history. About four years ago, a friend who loves this series told me to give Jack Reacher a try. I did, and I have continued reading some of the novels, and can only say that these are popcorn books. By that, I mean that they bring pleasure and enjoyment, but lack any nutritional value; I forget the plots as soon as I read them. If you’re looking for action, sometimes a little unrealistic, and a place in which to slip away from your daily stress, then the Jack Reacher novels are for you.

Finally, there is Jim Webb’s Born Fighting: How the Scots-Irish Shaped America (2004).

Previously in The Smoky Mountain News, I reviewed this chronicle of the role of the Scots-Irish in American history, but I mention it here again because Webb is this year one of the Democrat candidates for the presidency. A Naval Academy graduate, a hero in Vietnam, a law school graduate, an acclaimed novelist, a former Secretary of the Navy, a former United States Senator from Virginia, and a man who is in touch with his roots and with the common man, Webb is unknown to many of his fellow Democrats. His story of the Scots-Irish and of his own family history is, as John McCain once wrote, “a remarkable story — how the Scots-Irish and their fighting faith in America shaped the great nation we are today.” It is regrettable that so few in the Democrats know this man. Of all the candidates in that party, he is the most outstanding.

So there. Next review: William Forstchen’s One Year After.

(Jeff Minick is a writer and teacher. His novel, Amanda Bell, is available in regional bookstores and at Amazon. minick0301@gmail.com.)

Story time with Rozier Lucy Margaret Rozier will host a special story time at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

She will read her picture book Jackrabbit McCabe & the Electric Telegraph. With his extra-long legs, Jackrabbit McCabe can outrun anything on the American frontier: horses, trains, and even twisters.

Everyone in the town of Windy Flats always counts on Jackrabbit’s speed when a message has to get out fast. Then something new comes to town: the telegraph, which can send messages with the speed of electricity. At first, no one believes the newfangled contraption can deliver a message quicker than Jackrabbit. . . but in a race between man and machine, who will be left in the dust?

828.586.9499.

de Castrique returns with new mystery Writer Mark de Castrique will present his new mystery novel A Specter of Justice at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. There will also do a presentation at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesvile.

Set in Asheville, the book follows P.I. Sam Blackman as he attempts to solve two murders in a ghost story reenactment that proves to be a bit too authentic. When his friend is accused of the murders, Sam steps in to find the true killer. de Castrique grew up in the mountains of western North Carolina where his mysteries are set. A veteran of the television and film production industry, he serves as an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Coffee with the Poet welcomes Dunlap

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Thank You

The Coffee with the Poet series will continue with Holly Dunlap at 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, Nov. 19, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Dunlap will present her first book, Feet to Water. She lives in the half-river, half-city of Florence, Alabama. She has a master’s degree in creative writing from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a bachelor’s degree in English from Auburn University. Her poems have been published in journals including The Denver Syntax, BlazeVox in New York, and Illuminations at the College of Charleston, South Carolina.

The Coffee with the Poet series gathers the third Thursday of each month and is cosponsored by the NetWest chapter of the North Carolina Writer’s Network.

828.586.9499.

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• Author Tiffany Ehnes will discuss her work I am Soulshine from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 21, at Books Unlimited in Franklin. Writer Debra Jenkins will present her book In the Midst from 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 28.

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‘Read Local Book Fair’ returns to Sylva

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November 11-17, 2015

• Author Debra Ann Davis will present her novel The Meadows from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 13, at Sassy Sunflower Bakery & Café in Cherokee. Davis will also discuss various aspects of the writing process.

727.514.2246.

Fontana Regional Library will be hosting their 2nd Annual “Read Local Book Fair,” an event that gives residents the chance to meet and support local authors, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

Many authors will read selections from their works throughout the day and will have copies of their works available for purchase, just in time for the holiday season.

Authors will be seated at tables throughout the Library, where they can meet and chat with readers and autograph books. Some will also conduct brief readings as a way to introduce readers to their work.

The list of attending authors includes Mary Adams, Carol Bryson, Kathryn Stripling Byer, Gary Carden, Catherine Carter, Chris Cox, Thomas Rain Crowe, Tom Davis, Polly Davis, Martha Diede, Pamela Duncan, Edward (Bob) Fahey, Rebecca Whitmire Fowler, Avram Friedman, Jeremy Jones, Mary Joyce, Mary Lockey, Carly Robbins, Curtis Sikes, Renae Spear, Kirk Thomas, Dave Waldrop, Robin Whitley and Donna Glee Williams. www.fontanalib.org.

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

40

An even Dirty Dozen After 120-plus miles in the wilderness, hikers reflect on Wilderness Society challenge

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER lga Pader will always remember the Naked Ground Trail in the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness as “the hike from hell.”

It started out innocently enough, with she and her three hiking buddies stepping onto a wide, gently ascending trail. A weathered rock with a crack resembling a smile provided a pleasant spot for pictures and a water break.

But the happy illusion didn’t last long. The trail soon revealed its true colors as a narrow, rutted, steep, sometimes-disappearing path sufficient to challenge even the most experienced of hikers.

“It just went from bad to worse,” said Pader, who, at 70, is president of the Nantahala Hiking Club and a more adept hiker than most people half her age. “It got where it was really rutted, and with the briars and the laurel branches and the rhododendron branches you were actually pushing your way through brush.”

“It (the guidebook) said it was strenuous, but it couldn’t have prepared us for what we saw,” said Diana Otero, an active member of Franklin’s hiking community until her move to Indiana earlier this year.

Besides Otero and Pader, the group included Bill and Sharon van Horn, prominent supporters of hiking and the outdoors who have served in leadership roles with groups including NHC and Franklin’s Appalachian Trail Communities Committee. The crew certainly didn’t suffer from lack of outdoor skill or experience, but that woodland savvy didn’t stop them from losing the trail — twice — or from nearly slipping down a steep and snowcovered hillside.

“On regular trails we can maintain 2 miles per hour,” Pader said. “I think we were doing like three quarters of a mile per hour.”

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The sun was nearly gone by the time they emerged, victorious, having required 11 hours to go 9 miles. As Otero wrote in her blog entry about the excursion, “I found myself thinking that this is not a trail I needed to revisit.”

CELEBRATING THE WILDERNESS ACT So why, of all the trails in Western North Carolina, did the foursome choose this one?

Blame it on The Wilderness Society, they said. The group — which for the past year has referred to itself as “The Wild Bunch” — tackled the trail in an attempt to meet The Wilderness Society’s Dirty Dozen Wilderness Hike Challenge. The challenge asked contenders to, in the space of just one year, hike at least 10 miles in each of 12 congressionally designated wilderness areas in the Southeastern U.S. “A lot of the thinking behind it was to really make this a very authentic, experiential thing but then also something that really can carry forward into the future,” Jill Gottesman, conservation specialist for The Wilderness Society’s regional office in Sylva, said of the challenge.

Gottesman’s office had spearheaded the whole thing as a way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act, which Congress passed in 1964 to preserve areas where “the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain,” in the words of the act itself. The legislation turned 50 in September of last year, and that’s when the yearlong Dirty Dozen challenge kicked off.

“In our increasingly technologically advanced society where people are so plugged in and so connected and just in front of screens all the time, to really be able to step

A view of Linville Gorge spreads from an overlook. Brian Elmore photo

Hikers trek through an open portion of the Shining Rock Wilderness. Hannah Odom photo

back and have that kind of experience I think is key for us to stay in balance,” Gottesman said. The hiking challenge was a way to encourage people to explore wilderness areas they might not otherwise have visited and to have the increasingly rare experience of aloneness in nature.

It’s a worthy goal, Pader agreed.

“There is a mental and spiritual connection to wilderness, to places that are not

Bears, bridges and wilderness wandering For Timo Holmquist, of Asheville, the Dirty Dozen challenge was more of a solo quest than a team venture.

“I like my friends, they’re cool, but they’re more of a Netflixand-popcorn crowd,” he said, “so I had a little trouble getting people to come out with me.”

That didn’t faze him. Holmquist, 25, is a self-described “outdoors goober” who’s well versed in the principles of hike planning, provisions and navigation. Though his dad — Holmquist’s inspiration when it comes to outdoor adventure — accompanied him on some of the hikes, most of the time it was just him and his dog roving through the Appalachian wilderness.

Those moments, hours and miles of complete aloneness were

transformative.

“The only thing you can hear is a little drizzle and the rustle of animals around you,” he said. “It’s really a profound experience.”

Sometimes, adrenaline pierces the solitude. Holmquist had his share of heart-stopping moments in the course of his 150 or so miles of wilderness hiking, such as the time he topped a hill to see a bear standing right in front of him.

“Heart-stopping” would also be an accurate descriptor for much of his hike in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, which a series of unforeseen circumstances pushed from a 15-mile to a 26-mile endeavor.

The day began with a ford of the Linville River, which three days

changed by humans,” she said. “I think that this challenge allowed me the opportunity to really get to places that still afford people — even in the 21st century — (the chance to) really go back to where we came from.”

For Pader, that spiritual quality was at its height during her final miles of the challenge.

Shining Rock Wilderness was the last of the dozen wilderness areas on her checklist, and she’d planned to conquer it with a hike up Cold Mountain in the company of friends Sande Lolli and John Hagdorn. But the hike proved more challenging than she’d remembered from the last time she did it in 2004, and she had to turn around before reaching the end of the trail. That meant she still had 2.4 miles to hike in Shining Rock to meet the 10-mile minimum.

So, she and her husband Jim returned later and put in 4 miles from the Big East Fork Trailhead. The sky was overcast, drizzly, and for Pader, that was just perfect.

“You have to be a little not normal to say that you enjoy your last hike being in the rain, but in the rain the forest totally changes,” she said. “I think that’s where the spiritual quality of the forest is at its highest, that you’re really transported into a mystical world.”

For Otero, the end of the challenge, also at Cold Mountain, was

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of rain preceding the hike had gorged with fast-flowing water. The crossing was harrowing and nearly unsuccessful. Once on shore and dried off, mind still reeling from the experience, Holmquist set off to continue the trail, rounding a corner that put him face-toface with a hunter — and the hunter’s gun, pointed right at Holmquist.

“That jumpstarted my heart a little bit,” Holmquist said.

Upon discovering that Holmquist was not, in fact, a deer, the man lowered the weapon and Holmquist continued on his way. A washed-out bridge and impossible river crossing lay ahead, as he would soon enough find out, and when Holmquist finally made it home at midnight, he could do nothing but fall into bed, fully clothed and with his shoes still on.

“It gave me a nice impression of what it’s like to get lost a little bit in the Southern Appalachians,” he said.

Adventure through the Waynesville watershed outdoors

A guided hike into the conserved 8,000-acre Waynesville watershed will be led by Haywood Waterways Association at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17.

An ideal hike for beginning to intermediate hikers, this slow-paced exploration will offer an overview of the watershed, water cycle and water quality. The watershed is not generally open to the public, available only during special events like this one. Organized by the Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department with Eric Romaniszyn of Haywood Waterways leading the educational component. $5 for Waynesville Recreation Center members; $7 nonmembers. Registration required. tpetrea@waynesvillenc.gov or 828.456.2030.

Hike by the light of the moon A hike exploring the outdoors by moonlight will take off from the Jackson County Recreation Center 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, in Cullowhee.

The group will head to the Blue Ridge Parkway, bundled up for a chilly 3-mile hike. $5. Register at either the Cullowhee or Cashiers/Glenville recreation center. 828.631.2020 or 828.293.3053.

Leonid meteor shower coming up The Leonid meteor shower will return again this year, reaching a peak of 20 meteors per hour at midnight on the night of Nov. 17-18, when a waxing crescent moon will make for a darker sky and better viewing.

The Leonids are associated with Comet Tempel-Tuttle, which gives off gases and dust as it revolves around the sun. When the earth encounters the trail of debris the comet leaves behind on its annual trip around the sun, a meteor shower results.

A THIRST FOR MORE

With just 38 of the 565 people who registered for the Dirty Dozen Wilderness Hike Challenge completing, Western North Carolina found itself well represented in the spread of challenge winners. ■Timo Holmquist, first place completion date (finished April 13) and second place hike description (Middle Prong) ■Diana Otero, second place completion date (Finished April 23) ■Olga Pader, first place hike description (Middle Prong) ■Read the hikers’ first-hand accounts of their adventures on the Dirty Dozen blog, www.southeastwilderness50.org/dirty-dozenblog.

telling my husband I need another challenge,� she said, mentioning that the shortlist includes visiting all of Indiana’s state parks and walking across the state.

Otero isn’t the only one who’s looking for another adventure. “A lot of people didn’t get enough of it, and they want more,� said Michelle Ruigrok, outreach coordinator for The Wilderness Society. “Now we’re thinking about other types of challenges we can come up with.�

Challenges and competition are fun, but more important than places and prizes, Otero said, is the experience of being in these pockets of the primitive. “It’s a very humbling and empowering feeling at the same time, and I think without that experience people are missing out,�

Otero said. “There’s a lot of challenge and adventure to be had, but there’s a lot of value in the introspection that you can do when you’re in the wilderness.�

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Smoky Mountain News

The Wild Bunch, as they called themselves, didn’t do every single hike together.

One or the other of their number might be missing on any particular excursion, with other hikers joining in for an adventure here or there as well.

But the core four were a team, and nothing solidified that camaraderie more than the successful conclusion of the early “hike from hell� at Joyce Kilmer. “It was horrible when we were going through it, but when it was done the sense of accomplishment was really great, and we kind of felt that anything after that would be easy,� Otero said. “There was a realization that I don’t think we could have done it with any other group.�

The team spirit lived on even after Otero’s move, as she discovered that nearby Kentucky fit into The Wilderness Society’s definition of “southeast.� She and her husband made the drive to the Clifty Wilderness, going for the baker’s dozen of wilderness hikes. She was quick to email Pader and the Van Horns to let them know she was still thinking about them and about the challenge.

Now it’s over, but Otero’s busy deciding what the next big adventure should be. “As we moved to Indianapolis, I was

WNC hikers win recognition

November 11-17, 2015

bittersweet. The Wild Bunch had accelerated its hiking schedule as spring dawned, and not just because of the weather. That’s when Otero learned that she and her husband would be moving to Indiana in a matter of weeks, and she was determined to finish the challenge before leaving the mountains.

Just two days before the move, she, the Van Horns and fellow hiker Paul Dyer stood at the summit of Cold Mountain. “I thought that was kind of a fitting goodbye to the mountains,� she said.

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41

outdoors

The road to tri-athleticism Ironman completer Jennifer Jacobson will tell the story of her path to becoming an accomplished triathlete in a casual, conversation-style lunch program 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Laurel Ridge Country Club in Waynesville.

Jacobson will discuss her life as a wife, mother, funeral director and completer of the 140.6-mile race as the guest speaker for the quarterly Women in Business luncheon hosted by the Haywood Chamber of Commerce. $25. Register at web.haywoodnc.com/events/Women-In-Business1461/details.

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Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

LifePoint Health is an Affirmative Action Employer, so all candidates are required to apply online.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We believe our employees are our most valuable assets. We do not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age, in admission, treatment, or participation in our programs, services and activities or employment. We offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package for those who proudly join our family.

42

Conservation great Leopold focus of upcoming program An introduction to environmental muse Aldo Leopold and his beliefs about land ethics will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

Robert Hawk, Cooperative Extension director for Jackson and Swain counties, will give a talk titled “Getting to know Aldo Leopold and how to be a land ethic leader,” followed by a screening of the 15-minute version of the documentary “Greenfire — Aldo Leopold, A Land Ethic For Our Time.”

The program will close with a poem to ponder.

Hosted by the Nantahala Hiking Club, with a short club business meeting held in conjunction with the program.

Refreshments will be served.

Olga Pader, olgapader@frontier.com.

Paddling from Brevard to the Gulf: a professor tells his story

“

We’re a family here. We care about every patient who comes in the door as if they were family, and the staff shares that connection and bond with the community.

— Sharon Robinson, RN

262 Leroy George Drive • Clyde, NC 28721

”

A Western Carolina University professor will share the story of his 1,882-mile kayak journey from Brevard to the Gulf of Mexico at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Jackson County library in Sylva.

Windy Gordon, a psychology professor, took the trip with seven students in 1997, an education program combined with an environmental outreach effort. The presentation, “Voice of the Rivers,” will include a 12minute video, a talk and a question-andanswer session.

Gordon previously competed at an elite level in paddle sports, racing in the 1993 and 1994 Olympic Festivals, the 1996 Olympic trials and on the U.S. National Whitewater Team.

Free. 828.586.2016 or www.fontanalib.org.

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER In response to public opposition to its proposed 45-mile Foothills Transmission Line, Duke Energy has settled on a revised plan that will eliminate the need for the transmission line and Campobello substation.

Instead, Duke will replace its coal-fired power plant in Asheville with two smaller gas units rather than the single large one originally proposed.

The revised plan aims to balance the demand for reliable power with the “least possible impact on communities, property owners and the environment,” according to Lloyd Yates, president of Duke’s Carolinas region.

Environmental advocates who had opposed the original plan see the move as an improvement, though not the best-case scenario.

“Thankfully, Duke Energy’s announcement spares the mountains from the massive scar its proposed transmission line would have carved out,” said D.J. Gerken, senior attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center in Asheville.

“And while it is good news that Duke Energy also trimmed its overbuilt proposal for a natural gas plant, the company must

power demand has more than tripled in Duke Energy Progress’s Western Region, according to a company press release. Over the next decade, demand is expected to increase by more than 15 percent.

“Our challenge now is to support that growth while working with the community to reduce the region’s peak power and ongoing demand through much more participation in energy efficiency programs, demand response and renewable energy,” said Robert Sipes, Duke Energy’s general manager of delivery operations for the Western Carolinas.

Duke plans to retire its Asheville coal units by 2020, replacing them with natural gas units and a solar power plant on site.

Since 1970, peak power demand has Depending on demand, Duke could more than tripled in Duke Energy build a third gas unit Progress’s Western Region. in 2023.

Duke estimates that the new gas units will reduce sulfur dioxide emissions from the plant by 90 to “These policy changes are inherently 95 percent, nitrogen oxide by 35 percent, contrary to the economic self-interests of water withdrawal by 97 percent, water disthe public utility industry (Duke),” he said. charge by half and carbon dioxide by 60 Duke, meanwhile, points out that WNC percent per megawatt-hour, while also elimis growing, and with that growth comes inating mercury discharge. increased energy demand. Since 1970, peak do more to power our communities with clean and renewable energy, not decades more of fossil fuels.”

Avram Friedman, executive director of the Sylva-based environmental advocacy organization The Canary Coalition, agreed.

It’s “good news” that Duke is abandoning its transmission line plan, but the company is still in the business of promoting increased energy consumption to “provide them(selves) with a healthy profit,” he said.

Friedman called for public policy changes that would encourage decentralization of power production, encouraging movements such as what he calls the rooftop solar energy revolution.

Produce safety workshop planned for farmers A workshop for farmers on reducing food safety risks and legal requirements for marketing will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 20, at the Jackson County Extension Center in Sylva.

The Good Agricultural Practices workshop will cover fresh produce safety, on-farm hazard assessment and how to create a produce farm safety plan. $25 for lunch and materials. Register with Christine Bredenkamp, christine_bredenkamp@ncsu.edu or 828.586.4009.

Referendum for tobacco growers This month, North Carolina tobacco growers will have a chance to decide whether to continue contributing a portion of their sales to tobacco research and education.

Since 1991, the tobacco research checkoff program has allocated about $300,000 annually to tobacco-related research and extension projects. Growers pay 10 cents per 100 pounds of flue-cured and burley tobacco sold.

A vote whether to continue contributing is held every six years and requires a two-thirds majority. Tobacco growers can find ballots at their local cooperative extension offices on Nov. 19.

An informative breakfast talk on how the avian flu might affect poultry growers — including backyard chicken hobbyists — will be held at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Western North Carolina Ag Center in Fletcher.

Dr. Sarah Mason, director of veterinary and poultry functions for the N.C. Department of Agriculture, will discuss the flu and its implications for backyard poultry enthusiasts and small poultry farmers. With avian flu marching east in its spread across the country, poultry growers in this state are bracing for the arrival of the highly pathogenic virus.

Free, with RSVP required to Ariel.Dixon@buncombecounty.org or 828.250.4794. Organized by Buncombe County Friends of Ag.

Diane E. Sherrill, Attorney

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Smoky Mountain News

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November 11-17, 2015

Breakfast and bird talk slated for ag gathering

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outdoors

Duke pulls the plug on 45-mile transmission line, but will still replace coal plant with natural gas

nctrustlawyer.com

28 Maple St. • Sylva

43

Waterfall photography program coming up

outdoors

Kudzu unmasked at garden club presentation A program for the kudzu-curious will be held at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Lake Junaluska’s Bethea Welcome Center.

Sarah Scott, agent for Kudzu is a common Haywood County sight along roadsides in Cooperative Extension and the South. Donated photo former horticulturist for Biltmore Gardens, will give the program, titled “What’s up with kudzu, the plant that ate the South?”

Since wandering onto our continent, this non-native plant has seemingly devoured roadsides and abandoned buildings throughout the South, with many gardeners fighting to eradicate the insidious vine from their yards.

Free. Offered in conjunction with the Tuscola Garden Club’s monthly meeting.

828.246.0437.

Future Haywood Master Gardeners sought

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

The application period is open for those who would like to join the 2016 class of Haywood County Master Gardeners.

Held Tuesday mornings Jan. 5 through April 19, training session topics will include lawns; ornamental trees and shrubs; insect, disease and weed management; soils and fertilizers; vegetable gardening; plant propagation; home fruit production; flowering plants; composting; and landscape design principles.

In exchange for the training, participants volunteer at least 40 hours over the following year in various activities.

Offered through Haywood County Cooperative Extension, 828.456.3575 or sarah_scott@ncsu.edu.

You are hereby challenged to get out and enjoy the wonders of WNC.

Earn Points • Win Prizes

Outdoor camp celebrates its friends A celebration for friends of Outdoor Mission Camp, based in Maggie Valley, will be held 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at the camp’s base on 3190 Fie Top Road. The event includes a free BBQ dinner as a thank you to those who have been instrumental in the success of the Christian-based wilderness outreach camp, and as an invitation to those who are interested. RSVP to 336.583.9932. outdoormissioncamp.org.

Vandalism in the Nantahala National Forest has prompted the U.S. Forest Service to offer a monetary reward for information about the incident.

Vandals destroyed doors and damaged fixtures inside the restrooms at the Nantahala River launch site in Macon County last week, causing damage estimated at $4,500.

The facilities had been closed for the winter with signs directing people to a nearby vault toilet.

“It is sad that a few spoiled and selfish individuals think that it is acceptable to destroy the public’s property, because they have to walk 50 feet and use another toilet,” said Mike Wilkins, district ranger for the Nantahala Ranger District.

The Forest Service is offering a $1,500 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

The vandalism occurred between the afternoon of Monday, Nov. 2, and the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Special Agent Brian Southard, 828.200.4049.

N.C. Arboretum lights up for the holidays

WORKSHOP: WILDLIFE VIEWING IN WNC SAT., NOV. 14 • 10 A.M. FAMILY BONFIRE WITH SMORES & COCOA SUN., NOV. 15 • 6 P.M.

Info & registration: tpetrea@waynesvillenc.gov

WAYNESVILLE

RECREATION CENTER

550 Vance St. • Waynesville • 828.456.2030 44

Everette Robinson photo

Information sought in national forest vandalism

Tourists get to enjoy it some of the time, we can enjoy it all of the time!

FAMILY ADVENTURE RECREATION (FAR) CHALLENGE Explore • Have Fun

One of the region’s premier waterfall photographers will talk craft during a presentation 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Methodist Church of Cullowhee.

Everette Robinson has been photographing nature in Western North Carolina for more than 30 years, with waterfalls as his specialty. During the program, he’ll show selections from his vast collection of photos and reveal how to find his favorite spots, as well as tricks and techniques for getting the best shots.

The program is offered as part of the Sylva Photo Club’s regular meeting. $5 for visitors, free for members. sylvaphotoclub@gmail.com or 828.293.9820. www.sylvaphotoclub.wordpress.com.

townofwaynesville.org

318-17

More than 200,000 LED lights will illuminate the gardens of the N.C. Arboretum starting Nov. 20 for the second annual Winter Lights showcase.

New this year are a 50-foot lighted tree and animated displays illuminating to the sounds of holiday tunes, as well as family-friendly activities throughout the gardens, to up the ante from 2014.

A garden-scale model train that demon-

strates the coming of trains to Western North Carolina at the turn of the 20th century will also be in operation.

Produced in collaboration with former designer and manager of holiday decorations for Disney World,, Jerry Stripling, the showcase will run through Jan. 2.

Tours are held nightly from 6 to 10 p.m., with advance ticket purchase required. Prices range from $13 to $18, with children under 4 admitted free.

To gain free entry, consider joining the hundreds of volunteers needed to welcome visitors and guide them through the experience. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

800.514.3849. www.ncwinterlights.org.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • The Town of Franklin will honor Macon County Veterans with a parade and ceremony starting at 10:15 a.m. on Nov. 11 at the lower level of Franklin Town Hall. www.TownofFranklinNC.com or 524.2516.

• A Veterans Day Celebration and World War II Monument Rededication is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Webster’s Old Rock School grounds. U.S. Congressman Mark Meadows as well as state and local-elected officials will give remarks.

• U.S. Congressman Mark Meadows (R-Jackson County) will be the keynote speaker at Southwestern Community College’s Veteran’s Day event from noon-1 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, in Myers Auditorium on the Jackson Campus.

• The Jackson County Genealogical Society and Jackson County Museum will host a community open house from 7-8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, at their locations in the Historic Jackson County Courthouse in Sylva. 631.2646.

• Tickets are on sale for the sixth-annual Taste of Sylva culinary tour, which has been rescheduled for 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14. $20 in advance; $25 at the door.

Youth price is $10 (ages 12 and under). www.mainstreetsylva.org.

• There will be a “Tasty Tuesday: Winter Seasonals” at 7 p.m. Nov. 17 and 24 at Mad Anthony’s Bottle Shop & Beer Garden.

• The annual Duke Citizenship and Service award will be presented at a party from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, at Comfort Inn of Sylva.

• An “Amnesty Day” will be offered by the Haywood County Child Support Office on Nov. 20. Any non-custodial parent with an outstanding arrest order may go to the Haywood County Health and Human Services Agency to resolve the matter. For details, contact Patricia Conklin at 356.2366.

• Tickets are on sale for the N.C. Arboretum’s secondannual Winter Lights exhibit, which runs from Nov. 20Jan. 2. Three-acre nightly walking tour featuring more than 200,000 lights. http://tinyurl.com/nerqsq9.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • “Love for Pets: Biophilia or Cultural Transmission?” – a program sponsored by the WCU Chapter of Sigma Xi – is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Nov. 11 at Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva. Dr. Harold Herzog answers the question: “Why do humans – and only humans – keep pets?”

• Successful Entrepreneurship Series will be offered from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesdays through Nov. 17 at Western Carolina University’s Biltmore Campus in South Asheville.

Free. 712.5918, wendy@cmtcoatings.com or 712.5918.

• Jennifer Jacobson of Wells Funeral Homes, Inc., Cremation Services of Waynesville will be the featured speaker at the Haywood Chamber of Commerce Women in Business quarterly luncheon from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Laurel Ridge Country Club in Waynesville. Jacobson’s presentation is “From Funeral Service to the Finish Line.” Register at: http://tinyurl.com/nukceyl.

• A free tax workshop for small business owners will be offered through Southwestern Community College’s Small Business Center from 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 12 at the college’s Macon Campus. Register: www.ncsbc.net. Info: t_henry@southwesterncc.edu or 339.4426.

• The Jackson County Business and Industry Advisory Committee will hold a regular meeting at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, in Conference Room A-227 of the Jackson County Justice and Administration Building in Sylva.

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings • Employment Law workshop presented by attorney Jon Yarbrough on Friday, Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at WCU’s instructional site at Biltmore Park Town Square. pdp.wcu.edu or 227.7397.

• Western Carolina University’s Free Enterprise Speaker Series will host Radley Balko, a journalist with the Washington Post and author of “The Rise of the Warrior Cop,” for a discussion about increased militarization of American police departments from 4-5:15 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, in room 101 of the Forsyth Building in Cullowhee. Free. 227.3383 or ejlopez@wcu.edu.

• A Women in Business Luncheon is scheduled for 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Laurel Ridge Country Club in Waynesville. Guest speaker is Jennifer Jacobsen of Wells Funeral Homes, Inc., of Waynesville.

• RSVPs are being accepted for the Cashiers Area Chamber Annual Meeting & Celebration, which is Thursday, Nov. 19, at Sapphire Valley Resort Community Center. $45 per person includes arrival beverage and dinner. 743.5191 or info@cashiersareachamber.com.

• Preregistration is underway for NC Safe Plates: A required food safety course for food service establishments across Western North Carolina. The class is offered Nov. 23-24 at a cost of $130 (including lunch and snacks) at the Historic Cowee School in Franklin.

586.4009 or sherrie_peeler@ncsu.edu.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS • Volunteers are being sought for the N.C. Arboretum’s second-annual Winter Lights exhibit, which runs from Nov. 20-Jan. 2. Three-acre nightly walking tour featuring more than 200,000 lights. http://tinyurl.com/ov5cjka.

• A benefit raffle is currently underway at the Canton Senior Center. The prize is a gift basket valued at over $1,000, filled with gift certificates and other goods.

Funding, in general, has been cut over the years, with proceeds from the raffles going to their numerous programs. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Canton Senior Center and the Haywood County Senior Resource Center. Drawing is Dec. 9 and you do not have to be present to win. 356.2813.

• The ButterBrawl Invitational, a roller derby event featuring four bouts, is scheduled for Nov. 15 at Smoky Mountain Sk8way in Waynesville. Bouts include juniors (noon), Freshmeat (1:15 p.m.) Vets (2:30 p.m.) and Coed (3:45 p.m.) Tickets are $8 in advance from Derby girls, $10 at the door or free for ages five and under. $5 for unlimited play on inflatables/bouncehouse.

Nonperishable donations and gently used coats accepted for discounts on tickets; donations go to Haywood Christian Ministries.

• Contributions are being sought for the Glenville Area Historical Society’s historical museum, which plans to open next year. historicalsocietyglenvillearea@yahoo.com or 743.1658.

• Tickets are on sale for Balsam Range’s performance at the sixth-annual Festival of Trees dinner and auction, which is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, at Laurel Ridge Country Club in Waynesville. The event

Smoky Mountain News

is a fundraiser for KARE. Tickets available at www.karehouse.org. 456.8995. 454.0463.

45

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted.

HOLIDAY GIVING • The 24th annual Haywood County Motorcycle Parade and Toy Run is scheduled for Nov. 10. Registration is from 10-11:45 a.m. at the Town of Canton’s Town Hall; $10 per person per bike – or a new unwrapped toy of equal or greater value.. Parade begins at noon, traversing the county’s municipalities and ending at Wheels Through Time Museum.

• Operation Christmas Child, an effort to deliver shoeboxes filled with toys and goodies to children around the world, is attempting to collect 20,000 boxes throughout Western North Carolina. Local collection sites include First Baptist Church in Bryson City, Canton First Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Waynesville and First United Methodist Church in Sylva.

Boxes due week of Nov. 16-22. Info: wncocc@yahoo.com or samaritanspurse.org/occ.

• The Maggie Valley Lodging Association is accepting donations for its annual Turkey Drive at Thanksgiving. A $25 donation provides a full Thanksgiving meal for a family that would otherwise go without. Donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 1175, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 or www.visitmaggie.com (press donate button at bottom of the page).

• Operation Christmas Box is being organized to benefit homebound elderly Jackson County residents. Giftwrapped boxes with pop top canned goods, paper towels, soap, personal-care items, non-perishable food items and more will be accepted through Dec. 1 at the Jackson County Department on Aging. 631.8041 or 586.8562.

HEALTH MATTERS • Yoga 101: De-Stress for the Holidays will be taught by Rose Harrell Johnson at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at Waynesville Library’s Auditorium. Free; sign-up required: 356.2507.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Nov. 12 at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. Redcrossblood.org or 800.733.2767.

• The Macon County Cancer Support Group meets at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, in the cafeteria of Angel Medical Center in Franklin. Light refreshments and free gifts.

• Harris Regional Hospital will hold a community open house as part of National Nurse Practitioner Week from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, on the lower level of Western Carolina University’s new Health and Human Sciences Building. Refreshments will be served. Free.

631.8800.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 7:30 a.m.-noon on Nov. 14 at Crabtree United Methodist Church in Clyde. Redcrossblood.org or 800.733.2767.

• “Hope for the Holidays,” a program designed to provide support for those facing the holidays following the death of a loved one, is scheduled for 1-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Wells Events & Reception Center in downtown Waynesville. 452.5039 or 648.5039.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from noon-4:30 p.m. on Nov. 18 at Western Carolina University’s Health and Human Science Building in Cullowhee. 800.733.2767 or redcrossblood.org.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive 12:30-5 p.m. on Nov. 19 at First Baptist Church in Franklin. 800.733.2767 or redcrossblood.org.

• Swain Community Hospital, a Duke LifePoint Hospital, will hold a job fair from 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, in the main lobby of Harris Regional in Sylva.

Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. 586.7102, www.myharrisregional.com and www.myswaincommunity.com.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 2-6 p.m. on Nov. 23 at Center Pigeon Fire Department in Canton. 800.733.2767 or redcrossblood.org.

• Senior Life Solutions at Swain will offer a two-part educational series titled “Holiday Challenges – Dealing with Depression and Anxiety” from noon-12:45 p.m. on Dec. 17 and Dec. 19 at Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City. 488.4044.

• A free, weekly grief support group will meet from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at the SECU Hospice House in Franklin. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

POLITICAL CORNER • Macon County Republican Party will have a “Rally Together” event at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Robert C. Carpenter Community Building in Franklin. For registered Republicans, precinct chairs, elected Republican officials and party committee members. www.macongop.com.

• Swain County Democratic Party meets at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Swain County Training Center on Buckner Branch.

• The Gem Country Republican Women meet at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at The Boiler Room in Franklin. Featured speaker is Jamey Falkenbury, director of operations, educational policy advisor and press secretary to Lt. Gov. Dan Forest. 349.3102.

• The Jackson County Democratic Party will hold its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at party headquarters in Sylva. Agenda includes discussion of Nov. 3 election results and details of the annual gala.

• Representative Joe Sam Queen will have a reception to kick off his 2016 re-election campaign at the Balsam Mountain Inn Thursday, November 19th, from 5:30pm7:00pm.

THE SPIRITUAL SIDE • Outdoor Mission Camp will hold a barbecue with all the fixings at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, next to Cataloochee Ranch. RSVP by texting or calling 336.583.9932. Info at outdoormissioncamp.org.

• An international panel of speakers will address the issue of peace, and World Music artist, composer and peace activist Yuval Ron will perform from Nov. 12-15 at the Lake Junaluska Peace Conference at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center. Topic is “Longing for Peace/Exploring the Heart of God.” Registration is $145.

Students may attend for $60. Register at www.lakejunaluska.com/peace or by calling 454.6682.

• A presentation on the importance of movement will be given at 7 p.m. on Nov. 19 at the Open Door Center for Spiritual Living in Sylva. 477.4380.

• Faith speaker Lysa TerKeurst will speak at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 20, at the Smoky Mountain Center of the Performing Arts in Franklin. Musical guest is Michael O’Brien, Christian musician known for being lead singer of NewSong. Tickets start at $15. www.greatmountainmusic.com or 866.273.4615.

• Winter Shabbat Services are held at 10:30 a.m. on the first and third Saturdays of each month by Congregation Bamidbar in the Fellowship Hall of Andrews Methodist Church in Andrews. 369.9270.

wnc calendar

AUTHORS AND BOOKS • Author Debra Ann Davis will present her novel The Meadows from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at Sassy Sunflower Bakery & Café in Cherokee. Davis will also discuss various aspects of the writing process.

727.514.2246.

• Mark de Castrique will discuss “A Specter of Justice: A Sam Blackman Mystery” at 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

• The second-annual Read Local Book Fair is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Nov. 14 at Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

• Lucy Margaret Rozier will host a story time at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. She’ll read from her picture book “Jackrabbit McCabe & the Electric Telegraph.” 586.9499.

• Mark de Castrique will discuss “A Specter of Justice: A Sam Blackman Mystery” at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville. 456.6000, blueridgebooks@ymail.com or www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

• Hal Farwell and Karl Nicholas will discuss the making of their book “Smoky Mountain Voices: A Lexicon of Southern Appalachian Speech Based on the Research of Horace Kephart” at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, in the Community Room of the Jackson County Library in Sylva. Free. 586.2016.

• Haywood Community College’s Creative Arts Visiting Artist Program will host a lecture by professional writer Katey Schultz at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, in Clyde. Schultz will share perspective on what it takes to attract positive exposure, how to obtain features in major publications and more. Free; open to the public. 627.4672.

• Author Tiffany Ehnes will discuss her work I am Soulshine from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, at Books Unlimited in Franklin.

County Library. WITS will include lots of fun games, prizes, and hands-on activities. This club replaces book club previous held on the third Thursdays of the month. 526.3600.

• Fun Friday, everything science, is held at 4 p.m. on Fridays at Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016.

• Family Fun Night is at 6 p.m. on Thursdays at Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016.

• Writer Debra Jenkins will present her book “In the Midst” from 5-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28 at Books Unlimited in Franklin.

Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. 488.3030.

• Family movie time Thursdays, 3:45 p.m. at Albert Carlton, Cashiers Community Library. Free with popcorn. Call for title. 743.0215.

• Family movies will be played at 1 p.m. on Nov. 23, 24, & 28 at the Macon County Library. Call the library for titles. 524-3600.

• Just Write is at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016.

• Teen Coffeehouse is at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016.

• Waynesville Book Club on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. at Waynesville Library Meet to discuss books, which are chosen by each member (taking turns) and provided by the library. New members are welcome. For more information, 356.2507.

• Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville now has a used book section and is accepting books in exchange for credit on other used books, and a free book is available from the giveaway cart for anyone who buys three or more.

KIDS & FAMILIES • The Polar Express themed train will celebrate the holiday season Nov. 13-14, 20-22 and 24-25 at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot in Bryson City. www.gsmr.com or 800.872.4681.

• Fun Factory is presenting a Fall Family Fun Night from 3-8 p.m. every Tuesday through Nov. 17 in Franklin. Double your bonus, and $5 pizza buffet.

349.8888 or thefactory.bz.

• Youth Outright meets every Sunday from 4 p.m. -6 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Asheville for ages 14-20. www.youthoutright.org.

• Youth Outright meets the third Saturday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Asheville for ages 11-13. www.youthoutright.org.

A&E FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS • Heritage Arts Holiday Festival is scheduled for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 14 at Southwestern Community College’s Swain Center. Jewelry, woodwork, painting, beadwork, knitting, quilts, pottery and more. www.greatsmokies.com.

ON STAGE & IN CONCERT • “Inside Out” is being shown for free on Saturdays in November at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. at the Strand in Waynesville. 283.0079.

• Western Carolina University’s Percussion Studio will present an evening of percussion chamber and ensemble music at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, in the recital hall of the Coulter Building in Cullowhee.

Free. http://tinyurl.com/oafrskd or 227.7242.

• A “Furry Fun for Wee Naturalists” program is offered as a self-guided time and craft through Nov. 24 at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. www.ncarboretum.org.

• “Ant Man” will be shown at 6 p.m., 9 p.m. and midnight on Nov. 13-14 at University Center Theater in Cullowhee. $2 for current Western Carolina University students; $5 for faculty, staff and members of the community. Popcorn and drink included.

• The one-man play “Mercy Killers” will be presented by its author Michael Milligan at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. Free for students with ID; $10 general admission. www.mercykillerstheplay.com.

• Wednesdays in the Stacks, “WITS”, a new program for children in grades 3-6, on the third Wednesdays of the month from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Macon

• A family-friendly nature documentary about a monkey and her newborn daughter in Southern Asia, will be shown at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at

• Guitarist James Hammel performs at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at the Classic Wineseller in Waynesville. 452.6000.

• The Robot Zoo, an opportunity to see how real animals work by exploring biomechanics of robots, is on display through Jan. 3 at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. www.ncarboretum.org.

November 11-17, 2015

• The Coffee with the Poet series will continue with Holly Dunlap at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. Dunlap will present her first book, “Feet to Water.” 586.9499.

• Banned Book Club meets from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Nov. 21, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville.

For those who enjoy literature and intellectual conversation. 456.6000, blueridgebooks@ymail.com or www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

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• Vocalist Peggy Ratusz and pianist composer Michael Jefry Stevens perform an evening of blues, jazz and original music at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Classic Wineseller in Waynesville. 452.6000.

• Advance tickets are on sale for a performance by World Music artist, composer and peace activist Yuval Ron and his international ensemble of musicians. The concert is at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center’s Stuart Auditorium. $15; children 12 and under are free.

800.222.4930. www.lakejunaluska.com/peace.

• The “Showcase of Talent” will be at 7 p.m. on Nov. 14 at the Franklin High School Fine Arts Building.

Third-through-12th graders chosen from Macon County public, private and home schools perform a variety of entertaining acts. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 youth under the age of 16. Proceeds support Artists-in-the-Schools Program. www.franklinchamber.com.

• Balsam Mountain Inn will have Marshall Chapman, Tommy Womack and Will Kimbrough as part of their Songwriters in the Round series at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14. www.Balsaminn.net • The Western Carolina Civic Orchestra will present its annual fall concert at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, in the Coulter Recital Hall of Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.

• The Smoky Mountain Brass Quintet will present a free public concert at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, in the recital hall of Western Carolina University’s Coulter Building in Cullowhee. www.smbq.org or 227.3274.

November 11-17, 2015

• The classic Noel Coward comedy “Blithe Spirit” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. from Nov. 18-21 and at 3 p.m. on Nov. 22 in the Hoey Auditorium at Western Carolina University. The story describes the conflict when mystery writer Charles Condomine accidently brings his dead wife back into an earthly sphere while

researching a new book. Then his ghostly wife attempts to lure him away from his new wife and into the afterlife with her. Tickets will be $16 for adults; $11 for senior citizens, faculty and staff; and for students, $10 day of show or $7 in advance.

828.227.2479 or www.bardoartscenter.wcu.edu.

• ‘Round the Fire (folksy American rock, blues, reggae, swing, original music) performs at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, at the Classic Wineseller in Waynesville. 452.6000.

• Bob Zullo (vocals, guitar) performs at 7 p.m. on Nov. 20 at the Classic Wineseller in Waynesville. 452.6000.

• Tuscola High School’s Choral Department will present “Tuscola Loves Broadway, 50 Years of Celebration!” on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 21-22, in the high school auditorium. Showtimes are 7 p.m. on Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $10 and include a dessert and drink at intermission.

Tickets are available at the door, through any Summit member or by calling the school at 456.2408.

• Joe Cruz (piano, vocals) performs at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Classic Wineseller in Waynesville. 452.6000.

• A back porch old-time music jam will be held from 1-3 p.m. on Nov. 21 at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee. All welcome to come play or simply sit and listen to sounds of Southern Appalachia.

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • “Spoonman” Francis Chicoine, craftsman, will carve unique spoons, buttons and pendants from a variety of woods at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Rickman Store in Macon County. 369.5595.

• “.MOV: Experiments in Sensory Design” – a collaborative project between Western Carolina University’s School of Music and the School of Art and Design – will be presented at 7 p.m. on Nov. 12. Tickets are $3

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for adults and $1 for students; available at the Strand or www.38main.com.

• NanoWrimo, a novel writing group, is at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, at Jackson County Public Library.

586.2016.

• As part of Native American Heritage Month (November), The Museum of the Cherokee Indian will host Flue, Storytelling and Dance with the Cherokee Friends from 1-3 p.m. on Nov. 14 in Cherokee. $20 for adults; $10 for children ages 6-13; children must be accompanied by an adult. 497.3481, ext. 300, or www.cherokeemuseum.org.

• Glass Pumpkin Class is scheduled for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 14 at Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. $40. 631.0271.

• A two-day class, introduction to flash photography, is offered from 1-4:45 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 14-15, at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville.

Register: www.ncarboretum.org, 665.2492 or go by the Arboretum.

• Dance lessons will be offered in a pair of three-week sessions (Nov. 16-Dec. 7 and Nov. 19-Dec. 10) through the Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department. Instructors will be Herb and Sally Roach.

Classes meet at 7 p.m. $30 per person for a threeweek session. More info at 456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• A free photo-editing class will be taught by retired WCU professor Roger Bacon at 5:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. Bacon will show participants how to use GIMP, a free software. Free. Register by calling 586.2016. Co-sponsored by Friends of the Jackson County Public Library.

• A Scherenschnitte class (German art of paper cutting) will be held from noon-4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, at the Jackson County Extension Office in Sylva.

Talented instructor and paper artist Lawrie Williams will be teaching how to create Holiday ornaments and Tablescapes with this unique craft. A light egg salad sandwich lunch will be provided by Williams. Contact the Jackson County Extension Office at 828.586.4009 to register and for the supply list. Cost is $5.

• As part of Native American Heritage Month (November), The Museum of the Cherokee Indian will host Cherokee Heritage Trails – Quala Boundary and Blue Ridge Parkway Tours with certified trail guide Mike Littlejohn from 1-5 p.m. on Nov. 21 in Cherokee. $20 for adults; $10 for children ages 6-13; children must be accompanied by an adult. 497.3481, ext.

300, or www.cherokeemuseum.org.

• A “Nolen’s Tote” basket class with Joanne Nolen will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Nov. 21 at the Cooperative Extension Building in Franklin. Bring webbing, pail, sponge, hand towel, snips or old scissors, ice pick or awl, cloth tape measure, and sack lunch.

Fee is $25. Register by Nov. 17 by calling 828.524.ARTS. www.franklin-chamber.com.

• A “Glass Ornament” class will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 21 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. $30. 631.0271 or www.jcgep.org.

• Annual Haywood County Master Gardener WreathMaking event is Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cooperative Extension Office in Waynesville. $20, includes materials. Reserve spot by calling 456.3575 or mgarticles@charter.net.

• As part of Native American Heritage Month (November), The Museum of the Cherokee Indian will host free storytelling with Jerry Wolfe, Beloved Man of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, from 1-2 p.m. on Fridays in Cherokee. 497.3481, ext. 300, or www.cherokeemuseum.org.

• As part of Native American Heritage Month (November), The Museum of the Cherokee Indian will host free arts and crafts demonstrations as well as primitive skills demonstrations on Wednesday and

Saturday afternoons in Cherokee. 497.3481, ext. 300, or www.cherokeemuseum.org.

ART SHOWINGS AND GALLERIES • An art exhibit featuring Jon Jicha will open with a reception from 7-8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, hosted by the Jackson County Arts Council. www.jonjicha.com.

507.9820 or www.jacksoncountyarts.org.

• A presentation on Waterfall Photography is scheduled for Sylva Photo Club’s meeting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Methodist Church of Cullowhee. $5 for visitors; free for members.

Sylvaphotoclub.wordpress.com. sylvaphotoclub@gmail.com or 293.9820.

• The Haywood County Arts Council’s “It’s a Small, Small Work” will run from till Dec. 26 at the council’s Gallery & Gifts in downtown Waynesville. Most prices will be between $50-$125, with nothing over $300.

Supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division or the Department of Cultural Resources. www.haywoodarts.org, info@haywoodarts.org or 828.452.0593.

• Artist and author Joseph Meigs’ work will be on exhibit until Nov. 11 in the Jackson County Library in Sylva. Free.

• The 10th Annual Autumn Juried Group Exhibit of the Carolinas’ Nature Photographers Association Asheville Region entitled “Southern Appalachian Splendor Through the Seasons,” will be hosted through the New Year by the Green Sage Cafe in Asheville. www.cnpaasheville.org.

• Fine Feathered Friends and Flowers, oil paintings by Mary Webster, will be on display at the N.C. Arboretum through Jan. 3 at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. www.ncarboretum.org.

• Haywood County Arts Council will host artists from the Haywood Art Studio Tour at the Gallery & Gifts Space in Waynesville. www.HaywoodArts.org.

• The Mountain Heritage Center is hosting the exhibit “Collecting for the Community,” an exploration of the diversity and variety to be found in Western North Carolina. Visiting hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Thursdays.

• A contemporary exhibit is open at the Fine Art Museum at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.

The exhibit is intended to challenge the way beliefs about the natural world are formed. Entitled “Connections: Diane Fox & Beauvais Lyons,” the exhibit pairs photographs by Fox with lithography by Lyons. An artists’ talk and reception is set for 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19; the exhibit remains at WCU through Friday, Jan. 15. The museum is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on weekdays with extended hours to 7 p.m. on Thursday. Admission and parking are free.

227.3591 or fineartmuseum.wcu.edu.

• “It’s Teatime” – an interactive art installation by artist Leigh Ann Parrish, a Master in Fine Arts Candidate at Western Carolina University - will be featured through Nov. 24 at WCU’s Fine Arts Museum in Cullowhee. Three teatimes per day, Monday through Thursday, for guests. www.leighannparrishphotography.com.

FILM & SCREEN • A screening of the documentary “Steve Jobs: The Man in the Machine” will be held Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville.

• Mad Batter Food and Film will screen the films “Terminator Genysis” (Nov. 12-14) “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” (Nov. 20-21) in Sylva. Showtimes are 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with a 2 p.m. matinee also on Saturday. Free. For a full schedule of dates and times, click on www.madbatterfoodandfilm.com.

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• A screening of “Mr. Holmes” will be held at 7 p.m. on Nov. 13, Nov. 14 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Nov. 15 at 2 p.m., Nov. 17-20 at 7 p.m., Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. and Nov. 24 and 25 at 7 p.m. at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville.

• Adult movie time, 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Jackson County Public Library. Call for title of movie.

586.2016.

• “Frame by Frame” will be screened at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, the University Center theater at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. Film follows four Afghan photojournalists as they navigate a dangerous and emerging media landscape in post-Taliban Afghanistan. Framebyframethefilm.com.

• An Oscar-nominated drama with Steve Carell, Channing Tatum and Mark Ruffalo will be shown at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12, in the Macon County Public Library’s Meeting Room in Franklin. Move is about an Olympic wrestling champion brother team. Rated R; 2:14. 524.3600.

• A classic movie with Doris Day and Howard Keel will be shown at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at the Macon County Public Library’s meeting room in Franklin. Story is about Calamity Jane, her saloon and her romance with Wild Bill Hickock. 1:41. 524.3600.

• A new movie with Carey Mulligan and Matthias Schoenaerts will be shown at 2 and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, in the Macon County Public Library Meeting Room in Franklin. Movie is set in Victorian England and is about three different suitors pursuing the same lady. PG-13; 1:59. 524.3600.

Smoky Mountain News

November 11-17, 2015

• A classic movie with Ray Milliland and Maureen O’Sullivan will be shown at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 20, in the Macon County Public Library Meeting Room in Franklin. A career-oriented magazine editor finds himself on the run when he discovers his boss is framing him for murder. 1:35. 524.3600.

• “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” will be shown from Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 19-21, at Mad Batter in Sylva. PG-13. Free. Showtimes are 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. each night, plus a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday.

586.3555.

http://goo.gl/forms/syE4M9xIrd or 227.7129.

• Nantahala Area SORBA is sponsoring a Women’s Pizza Social at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Innovation Brewing in Sylva. RSVP to diane@brysoncitybicycles.com.

• “Love for Pets: Biophillia or Cultural Transmission will be presented by Hal Herzog on Nov. 11 at 6 p.m. as part of the “Science Café” hosted at Mad Batter Food and Film by WCU Sigma Xi scientific research society. 227.2945.

• “Butterflies and Moths of the Southern Appalachians: An Introduction to Our Scaly Winged Friends” will be presented by Dr. James Costa at 2 p.m. on Nov. 12 at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Sponsored by the Southern Appalachian Plant Society. http://sapsncga.blogspot.com.

• “T-Rex and the Doomsday Impact” will be presented at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute in Rosman. $20 per adult; $15 for seniors/military. Children 10 and under are admitted free. Register at www.pari.edu or by calling 862.5554. Info: schappell@pari.edu.

• Tsali Trail Work Day has been scheduled by Nantahala Area SORBA for 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15. Lunch provided for volunteers.

• Meetings to accept public input on the Nantahala and Pisgah Forest Plan Revision from 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 16 in the Wilma M. Sherrill Center at Kimmel Arena at the University of North Carolina Asheville.

• Dr. Windy Gordon will share a presentation called Voice of the Rivers at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, in the Community Room of the Jackson County Public Library Complex in Sylva. Free. Dr. Gordon describes a 1,882-mile kayak journey from Brevard to the ocean below New Orleans. Co-sponsored by Friends of the Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016.

• The Aviation Historical Society will host a presentation by John Crawford, who will share his adventures in WWII flight instruction at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Macon County Airport near Franklin.

Free. 506.5869 or aeroscribbler@gmail.com.

• The Highlands Plateau Greenway will conduct its monthly work day from 9 a.m.-noon on Nov. 21. To participate, email Ran Shaffner at highlandsgreenway@nctv.com or call 526.5622.

Outdoors • A series of haunted walking tours sponsored by Mountain Heritage Center staff will be offered on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Western Carolina’s Hunter Library. Tours are at 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m. each day.

Some tour material may not be suitable for younger children. $5 admission per person; free for children under 8. Proceeds support student scholarships.

• Haywood Historic Farmers Market is held from 8 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the parking lot of HART Theatre in Waynesville. 280.1381 or haywoodfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

• Guided tours of WATR Discovery Trails at Monteith Farmstead Park in Dillsboro can be scheduled by calling 488.8418. For youth or adult/civic groups.

FARM AND GARDEN • Tuscola Garden Club will focus on the topic of “What’s Up with Kudzu, the Plant that Ate the South” at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Bethea Welcome Center at Lake Junaluska. Presenter will be Sarah Scott, Haywood County extension agent.

246.0437.

• Fall and Winter Interest in the Garden is a program that will be offered from 1-2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. Register: www.ncarboretum.org, 665.2492 or go by the Arboretum.

• Friends of Ag Breakfast is at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the WNC Ag Center in Asheville. Topic is “Avian Influenza Implications for Poultry Growers of All Sizes” presented by Dr. Sarah Mason, director of veterinary/poultry for NCDA. RSVP: ariel.dixon@buncombecounty.org or 250.4794.

• “Holiday Gifts for Gardeners” will be presented by Master Gardener volunteer Jim Janke from 1-2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, in the Waynesville Library auditorium. Eighteen gifts from $5-200 will be shown and discussed. Refreshments and door prizes provided by Friends of the Library. 356.2507.

• Jackson County Cooperative Extension will hold a workshop designed to help provide area farmers with tools for reducing food safety risks while meeting marketing requirements from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 20, at the Jackson County Extension Office. $25.

488.3848 or 586.4009.

• Applications are being accepted for the Haywood County Extension’s 2016 Master Gardener Class.

Trainings are Tuesday mornings from Jan. 5-April 19.

Apply by Dec. 30. 456.3575 or sarah_scott@ncsu.edu.

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings with a 600-foot elevation change on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at High Falls north of Cashiers. For more info, contact leader Jody Burtner at 788.2985.

• Nantahala Hiking Club will host a business meeting and program at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Robert Hawk, Jackson and Swain County extension director, will present “Getting to know Aldo Leopold and how to be a Land Ethic Leader.” olgapader@frontier.com.

• Nantahala Hiking Club will have a 10.3-mile hike with a 2,100-foot elevation change on Saturday, Nov. 14, starting at Kimsey Creek. For info, contact leaders Bill and Sharon Van Horn. 369.1983.

• Carolina Mountain Club will hold a six-mile hike with a 1,200-foot ascent on Saturday, Nov. 14. For info, contact leader Marcia Bromberg at 505.0471 or mwbromberg@yahoo.com.

• The Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department will offer a hike to the Waynesville Watershed at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 17. Low-elevation hikes. Hikers will meet at Allen’s Creek Park. $5 for members; $7 for nonmembers. Registration required: 456.2030 or tpetrea@waynesvillenc.gov.

• A Full Moon Hike is scheduled for Nov. 21. Register

by Nov. 19 at the Cullowhee Rec center or the Cashiers/Glenville Rec Center. $5 per person. Meet at Cullowhee Recreation Center at 6 p.m.

• Nantahala Hiking Club will have a six-mile hike of Bee Cove Falls on Saturday, Nov. 21, in South Carolina. For info, call leaders Mike and Susan Kettles at 743.1074.

COMPETITIVE EDGE • The Tsali Adventure Triathlon, featuring paddling, running and biking stages, was rescheduled for Nov. 14 due to weather. The event will be held at Tsali Recreation Area. Registration info at www.tsalitriathlon.com.

• The Jackson County Farmers Market is held each week until Christmas indoors at the Community Table on Central Avenue next to the pool and Poteet Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info: jacksoncountyfarmersmarket@gmail.com or jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

• Carolina Mountain Club will hold a 12.3-mile hike with a 2,740-foot ascent on Nov. 11. For more info, contact leader Steve Pierce at 442.8482 or stevepierce50@gmail.com.

• The Cashiers Tailgate market is open from 9 a.m.-

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will have a 4.5-mile hike

HIKING CLUBS

318-64

Great Smokies Storage 10’x20’ $

92

20’x20’ $

160

ONE MONTH

FREE WITH 12-MONTH CONTRACT

828.506.4112 or 828.507.8828

50

noon on Saturdays at the United Community Bank on N.C. 107 South. 226.9988 or blueridgefarmers@gmail.com.

Conveniently located off 19/23 by Thad Woods Auction

Puzzles can be found on page 54.

These are only the answers.

PRIME REAL ESTATE Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MarketPlace information:

CONSERVATIVE GROUP THINKERS MEET Tues. Nov. 17th, 7p.m. @ Dodies on Main St., Downtown Sylva.

Round Table Conversation, Explores Conservative Solutions to Local, State & National Challenges. Sylva South Reg. Voters Invited. Have Dinner at Home and Enjoy Dessert with Us. For info call Dodie 828.586.3634.

Don’t Forget, Auctions Every Thursday at 7p.m. NCAL#3410

The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 every week to over 500 locations across in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties along with the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. For a link to our MarketPlace Web site, which also contains a link to all of our MarketPlace display advertisers’ Web sites, visit www.smokymountainnews.com.

Rates:

■ Free — Lost or found pet ads.

■ $5 — Residential yard sale ads, ■ $5 — Non-business items that sell for less than $150.

■ $15 — Classified ads that are 50 words or less; each additional line is $2.

If your ad is 10 words or less, it will be displayed with a larger type.

■ $3 — Border around ad and $5 — Picture with ad or colored background.

■ $50 — Non-business items, 25 words or less. 3 month or till sold.

■ $300 — Statewide classifieds run in 117 participating newspapers with 1.6 million circulation. Up to 25 words.

■ All classified ads must be pre-paid.

• HOUSE SOLD - MOVING DOWNSIZING SALE • From 3,400 sq. ft. Home. One of a Kind Decorator Items, Antiques, Vintage, Living - Dining & Den Furniture, Patio Set & So Much More! 200 Feather Ln., Waynesville. Wed. 11th 9a-6p, Thurs - Sat 10a-4p Presented by Frog Pond Estate Sale & Downsizing Service.

Classified Advertising: Scott Collier, phone 828.452.4251; fax 828.452.3585 classads@smokymountainnews.com

ARTS & CRAFTS THE TABLE COMPANY Handcrafted Elegant Rustic Furnishings for the Home of Office.

Custom Woodworking. Tables, Beds, Entry Doors, Stair Railings and More. Reclaimed Woods, Live Edge Slabs, Wormy Chestnut, Oak, Walnut & Cherry. Visit us at THETABLECO.COM Call David Tripp 828.342.0589, Showroom Coming Soon.

WAYNESVILLE TIRE, COO

Serving Haywood, Jackson & Surrounding Counties

R

DI

SC OV E R E

ATR

PE

INC.

Offering:

MAJOR-BRAND TIRES FOR CARS, LIGHT & MEDIUM-DUTY TRUCKS, AND FARM TIRES.

Service truck available for on-site repairs LEE & PATTY ENSLEY, OWNERS

MON-FRI 7:30-5:00 • WAYNESVILLE PLAZA

828-456-5387

318-78

ALLISON CREEK Iron Works & Woodworking. Crafting custom metal & woodwork in rustic, country & lodge designs with reclaimed woods! Design & consultation, Barry Downs 828.524.5763, Franklin NC

AUCTION MINI-FARM AUCTION 6.8+/-Acres with 3-BR House, Shop-Stable & Pasture, Tractor, Trucks, Mowers, Equipment, Horse-Trailer. Between Wilson & Goldsboro, Wayne County. OnLine Bidding November 7 -19. www.HouseAuctionCompany.com 252.729.1162. NCAL#7889

AUCTION

BUILDING MATERIALS

AUCTIONOnline Bidding. Metal Working Equipment, Pumps, Tools & Equipment. Lathes, Breaks, Presses, Misc. Size Pumps, Gearboxes, Welders & More! Bid 11/2-11/12, Chester, VA. www.motleys.com/industrial. 804.232.3300x4 VAAL#16.

HAYWOOD BUILDERS Garage Doors, New Installations Service & Repairs, 828.456.6051 100 Charles St. Waynesville Employee Owned.

AUCTION Online w/ Bid Center, 121+/-Acres Offered Divided or as a Whole, Timberland & Rural Residential in Durham NC, Durham County. Ends November 12th at 3pm. Bid Center At: Hilton Durham in Durham, NC. ironhorseauction.com.

800.997.2248. NCAL3936.

ACORN STAIRLIFTS. The Affordable Solution to your stairs! **Limited time -$250 Off Your Stairlift Purchase!** Buy Direct & SAVE. Please call 1.800.291.2712 for FREE DVD and brochure.

ON-LINE AUCTION! Tues. Nov.17 6pm. Approx. 200 lots. FINE ESTATE JEWELRY AND ESTATE LUXURY WATCHES. Catalog/photos shelleysauction.com Bidding @ LIVEAUCTIONEERS.COM On-line, phone, absentee bids accepted! J. Humphrey, Auctioneer (NCAL 6556) - 15% Buyers Premium. Shelley's Auction Gallery (NCAL6131) 429 N. Main St., Hendersonville, NC. REAL ESTATE AUCTION: ±30 Properties Selling in NC & SC Spartanburg Marriott. December 9th 12PM Lyons Group.

888.420.0011. SCAL3630. www.lyonsauctiongroup.com The Ligon Company. NCAL8951 TAX SEIZURE AUCTION Wednesday, November 18 at 10am.

196 Crawford Rd., Statesville, NC. Selling Seized Restaurant, Bar & Meat Processing Equipment for NC Department of Revenue due to Unpaid Taxes. (8) Ice Cream Machines, Refrigeration, Cooking Equipment, Walkins, Meat Grinders, more. ClassicAuctions.com 704.791.8825. NCAF5479.

RUN YOUR CLASSIFIED In 100 North Carolina newspapers for only $375 for a 25-word ad.

Call this newspaper or 919.516.8009 for details.

AUCTION NOV 17 - $47,520 BUYS! Neat neighborhood 5 BR/2Ba Enfield home 11/7-11AM - United Country/Stone Auction & Realty NCAL561. 252.399.9983. www.stone-auction.com

CONSTRUCTION/ REMODELING

ALL THINGS BASEMENTY! Basement Systems Inc. Call us for all of your basement needs! Waterproofing, Finishing, Structural Repairs, Humidity and Mold Control.

FREE ESTIMATES! Call 1.800.698.9217 DAVE’S CUSTOM HOMES OF WNC, INC Free Estimates & Competitive rates. References avail. upon request. Specializing in: Log Homes, remodeling, decks, new construction, repairs & additions.

Owner/Builder: Dave Donaldson.

Licensed/Insured. 828.631.0747 or 828.508.0316 SAFE STEP WALK-IN TUB. Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door.

Anti-Slip Floors. American Made.

Installation Included. Call 800.807.7219 for $750 Off. SULLIVAN HARDWOOD FLOORS Installation- Finish - Refinish 828.399.1847.

FIND THE RIGHT CARPET, Flooring & Window Treatments.

Ask about our 50% off specials & our Low Price Guarantee. Offer Expires Soon. Call now 888.546.0135 SAPA

CARS 2012 - KIA SOUL Silver, 6 Speed Manual, 33k Miles, $11,850/o.b.o. Call for Details 828.631.3106 or 828.226.0490

R

WNC MarketPlace

CARS -

EMPLOYMENT

A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR For Breast Cancer! Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, & support programs.

Fast Free Pickup - 24 Hr Response Tax Deduction 855.306.7348 SAPA TOP CASH FOR CARS, Call Now For An Instant Offer. Top Dollar Paid, Any Car/Truck, Any Condition. Running or Not. Free Pick-up/Tow. 1.800.761.9396 SAPA

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FLIP HUD HOUSES ONLINE. Free book & videos reveal how to buy for pennies on dollar. Limited offer. Flip or rent. Get yours in now.

HUDCAROLINA.COM.

www.smokymountainnews.com

November 11-17, 2015

MAKE $1000 WEEKLY!!

Mailing Brochures From Home.

Helping Home Workers Since 2001!

Genuine Opportunity. NO Experience Required. Start Immediately. www.NewMailers.com SAPA

EMPLOYMENT

BUSINESS OFFICER POSITION At Highlands Biological Station.

Responsible for management of Station Fiscal Operations, with Administrative and Business Management Duties. Full-Time Permanent Position. Salary $38,748 $40,197. For more information https://jobs.wcu.edu/postings/3103 FULL CHARGE BOOKKEEPER Sylva, NC based not-for-profit organization is seeking a fulltime bookkeeper to handle all accounting functions including general ledger, payroll, accounts receivable and account payable.

Applicants should have accounting education and several years hands-on accounting experience.

Good working knowledge of Excel and Word are required.

Please send resume to: sylvaresume@gmail.com DRIVER TRAINEES Paid CDL Training! Stevens Transport will cover all costs! No Experience Needed! Earn $800 per week!

Local CDL Training!

1.888.748.4137 drive4stevens.com

SCOUT A YOUNG ADULT BOXER MIX BOY WITH BEAUTIFUL WHITE AND BROWN MARKINGS. HE IS A FRIENDLY, PLAYFUL AND FUN DOG, AND WILL BE A GREAT FAMILY DOG. HE DOES NEED A BIG YARD FOR PLAY AND EXERCISE, AND HE'LL BE A VERY HAPPY BOY. CONGO ONE OF OUR STAFF AND VOLUNTEER FAVORITE CATS AT SARGE'S ADOPTION CENTER. HE ROLLS OVER FOR A BELLY RUB, OR HEAD BUTTS AFFECTIONATELY WHEN HE MEETS ANYONE NEW. HE'LL BE A TERRIFIC BEST FELINE FRIEND FOR A LUCKY ADOPTER.

Michelle McElroy RESIDENTIAL BROKER ASSOCIATE E-PRO, CNHS, RCC, SFR

HEAD START CENTER SUPERVISOR - JACKSON COUNTY Required BS Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field & Administrative Level III Credentials, basic computer knowledge, 2-3 years’ experience in NC Day Care regulations, 2-3 years supervisory experience & good judgment skills, full time with benefits. Applications accepted at Mountain Projects, 2251 Old Balsam Rd., Waynesville or 25 Schulman St. Sylva or www.mountainprojects.org EOE/AA

ATTN: DRIVERS Average $1000+ p/wk. BCBS + 401k + Pet & Rider. Home for Christmas! $500 Holiday Bonus.

CDL-A Req - 877.258.8782. www.drive4melton.com FTCC Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Computer Information Technology Instructor. Paramedic InstructorContinuing Education. Automotive Systems Technology Instructor.

Programmer/Analyst. Grant Writer.

Health & Physical Education Instructor. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.com/. Human Resources Office. Phone: 910.678.8378 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu.

An Equal Opportunity Employer.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS RAILROAD IN BRYSON CITY Is hiring for seasonal Parking Attendant, Train Cleaning Attendant, and POLAR EXPRESS Event Staff such as Santa, Chef, Hobo, Elf, and Hot Chocolate Attendant! Earn train passes, retail and food discounts, passes to area attractions, and more!

Qualified applicants must successfully pass a background check. Applications are available at the Bryson City Depot or online at: www.gsmr.com/jobs NEED MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES! Doctors & Hospitals need Medical Office Staff! No Experienced Needed! Online Training gets you job ready! HS Diploma/GED & Computer needed. Careertechnical.edu/nc.

1.888.512.7122 IMMEDIATE OPENINGS NOW! Home Every Week. Excellent Pay w/Benefits, 100% No Touch Freight, 75% Drop & Hook. Class A CDL w/1 Yr. Exp. Req. Call Today Call 888.219.8039.

LAWN & GARDEN

AVIATION GRADS Work With Jetblue, Boeing, Delta, And Others- Start Here With Hands-On Training For FAA Certification. Financial Aid If Qualified.

Call Aviation Institute Of Maintenance 1.866.724.5403 SAPA

HEMLOCK HEALERS, INC. Dedicated to Saving Our Hemlocks. Owner/Operator Frank Varvoutis, NC Pesticide Applicator’s License #22864. 48 Spruce St. Maggie Valley, NC 828.734.7819 828.926.7883, Email: hemlockhealers@yahoo.com

CAN YOU DIG IT? Heavy Equipment Operator Career!

We Offer Training and Certifications Running Bulldozers, Backhoes and Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits Eligible!

1.866.362.6497

MTD YARDMASTER RIDING MOWER 36” 14hp B&S. Runs and Mows Fine, Needs Routine Maintenance.

Cowl Removed but Available. $250 Call 828.648.4372, leave message.

MONEY FOR SCHOOL Potentially get full tuition & great career with U.S. Navy. Paid training, medical/dental, vacation. HS grads ages 17-34. Call Mon-Fri 800.662.7419

HAYWOOD SPAY/NEUTER 828.452.1329

FINANCIAL BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

SAPA SELL YOUR STRUCTURED Settlement or annuity payments for Cash Now. You don't have to wait for your future payments any longer! Call 1.800.316.0271.

SOCIAL SECURITY Disability Benefits. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1.800.371.1734 to start your application today!

PETS

Prevent Unwanted Litters!

The Heat Is On! Spay/Neuter For Haywood Pets As Low As $10.

Operation Pit is in Effect!

Free Spay/Neuter, Microchip & Vaccines For Haywood Pitbull Types & Mixes!

Hours:

Tuesday-Friday, 12 Noon - 6 pm 182 Richland Street, Waynesville

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

FURNITURE COMPARE QUALITY & PRICE Shop Tupelo’s, 828.926.8778.

HAYWOOD BEDDING, INC. The best bedding at the best price!

533 Hazelwood Ave. Waynesville 828.456.4240

HEAVY EQUIPMENT SAWMILLS From only $4397.00- Make & Save Money with your own bandmillCut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com.

1.800.578.1363 Ext.300N

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised on an equal opportunity basis.

Commercial Property For Sale Best Location in Western NC! Highway 441 • 8,800 sq. ft.

• Post & Beam • 2-800 sq. ft. offices with exterior entrances • Motivated Seller — $895,000

828.400.9463 Cell 74 North Main St. • Waynesville 828.452.5809

HELP WANTED Looking to become a wonderful addition to a dental office? We are searching for a certified Dental Assistant to be the one to complete our amazing team. Send resume to: apply2assist@yahoo.com You will enjoy this great group and our awesome patients we are privileged to serve.

DRIVERS: SE DEDICATED RUN NC, SC, FL, GA, TN, MS, AL Areas Home Weekly/Full Benefit Pkg. 100% No Touch, 75% Drop & Hook. CDL-A with 1yr. Exp. Call 888.406.9046

EMPLOYMENT

Office • Retail • Medical • Pub • Endless Opportunity!

michelle@beverly-hanks.com 52

JACKSON COUNTY IS RECRUITING For a Code Inspector I or II. The position requires on-site inspection of trade installations within new and existing buildings with emphasis on electrical, building, HVAC, and plumbing inspections. The candidate must be able to train and obtain certification in electrical, building, plumbing, mechanical and fire prevention. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license, high school diploma and two years of related experience in construction, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trades or an equivalent combination of education, experience and training. Licensed electricians, plumbers, HVAC, and general contractors preferred. Starting salary is based on qualifications; Code Inspector I (Grade 19, $30,801.19) and Code Inspector II (Grade 22, $35,656.23) plus employer paid benefits. To apply, submit a NC State Application to the Sylva Branch of the NC Division of Workforce Solutions or the Jackson County Human Resources Office by 4:30 pm on Monday, November 23, 2015.

EOE.

EMPLOYMENT

318-72

For more information and pictures www.smokymtninvestment.com • 828.524.7199

318-63

PROPERTY RENTAL ON CASCADING CREEK Sophisticated and distinctive in its beauty, this 3/BR, 3.5/BA Lodge Styled Home creates a new experience with every open door.

Surrounded by the luscious mountain range that gives the Great Smoky Mountains it’s name, its hard not to feel at home. Newly custom reconstruction embraces the authentic feel that the handmade furnishings

by High Country Furniture gives.

Accompanied with a full finished basement-turned pool room, the possibilities are endless in this ideal mountain vacation home.

Less than 8 min. to I-40. $1,850 per month plus utilities.

Also Available for Sale!

Motivated Seller Reduced Price of $379,000, Taking Offers.

Fully Furnished. For more info 865.603.8167

LEASE TO OWN 1/2 Acre Lots with Mobile Homes & Empty 1/2 Acre + Lots!

Located Next to Cherokee Indian Reservation, 2.5 Miles from Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.

For More Information Please Call 828.506.0578

HOMES FOR SALE

RUN YOUR CLASSIFIED In 100 North Carolina newspapers for only $375 for a 25-word ad.

Call this newspaper or 919.516.8009 for details.

828.506.7137

aspivey@sunburstrealty.com

www.sunburstrealty.com/amy-spivey

BROOKE PARROTT BROKER ASSOCIATE

Jerry Smith

828.734.2146

828-734-8765

bparrott@beverly-hanks.com

jsmith201@kw.com

Visit beverly-hanks.com/agents/bparrott

to see what others are saying!

318-68

434 Russ Ave. • Waynesville

Office: 828-926-5155 kellerwilliamswaynesville.com 214-64

COMM. PROP. FOR RENT OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Approx. 450 sq. ft., Kitchenette with Microwave, Sink and Undercounter Fridge. 2 Seperate areas for 2 Offices and a Storage Room in Back. All Heat, AC & Util. are Included at $695/mo. High Traffic Area at 850 N. Main St. Waynesville. Contact Sharon 828.421.8812

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT

HOMES FOR RENT UNFURNISHED

GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE

3/BR 2/BA HOUSE In Clyde Area. All Appliances, Decks, Ceiling Fans, Central Heat/AC. Includes Yard Maintenance. $880/mo. Deposit Req., Lease, No Smoking/Pets.

828.734.9409 or 828.246.0918

Conveniently located off 19/23

by Thad Woods Auction. Available for lease now: 10’x10’ units for $55, 20’x20’ units for $160.

Get one month FREE with 12 month contract. Call 828.507.8828 or 828.506.4112 for more info.

In today’s market, it is best to have a buyer’s agent.

I know the market if you are looking to buy!

Margie MacDonald REALTOR

Accredited Buyers Representative, NAR Green, ECO Certified, E-Certified

317-46

828.734.9265

margie@4smokys.com

36 S. MAIN ST. WAYNESVILLE

Committed to Exceeding Expectations

Marilynn Obrig

Mike Stamey

mstamey@beverly-hanks.com

828-508-9607

Residential Broker Associate

(828) 550-2810

mobrig@Beverly-Hanks.com

www.Beverly-Hanks.com 74 NORTH MAIN ST. • WAYNESVILLE, NC

www.beverly-hanks.com

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS 318-70

Offering 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $400 Section 8 Accepted - Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

OFFICE HOURS: Tues. & Wed. 10:00am - 5:00pm & Thurs. 10:00am- 12:00pm 168 E. Nicol Arms Road Sylva, NC 28779

The Real Team

JOLENE HOCOTT • LYN DONLEY MARLYN DICKINSON

Real Experience.

Real Service. Real Results.

828.452.3727

Phone# 1.828.586.3346 TDD# 1.800.725.2962

www.The-Real-Team.com

Equal Housing Opportunity

MOUNTAIN REALTY 1904 S. Main St. • Waynesville

MOUNTAIN REALTY Steve D. Mauldin smauldin61@charter.net

828.734.4864 MOUNTAIN REALTY

smokymountainnews.com

NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS

I can show and negotiate a sale for you on any property in the MLS.

November 11-17, 2015

BRUCE MCGOVERN A Full Service Realtor, Locally Owned and Operated mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com McGovern Property Management 828.283.2112.

147 WALNUT STREET • WAYNESVILLE

318-40

MOUNTAINS OF NC Located near Chimney Rock. Cabin on 2+ acres with loft, stone fpl, large deck, pict windows, mtn views. Only $154,900. Call 828.286.1666

SFR, ECO, GREEN

318-59

67 ACRES OFF PRESSLEY CREEK IN CULLOWHEE NEAR WCU. Includes 2/BR 2/BA, 1600 sq. ft. house, workshop & garage.

Property borders Forest Service and offers long range views to the Parkway. Good road system in, several potential additional house sites, very private, good potential family compound, ideal for conservation easement.

Reduced to $345,500 Details at: www.918gapbranch.com or Call 828.586.0165

318-10

EXECUTIVE LONGTERM RENTALS WNC MarketPlace

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT

26 North Main Street Waynesville, NC 28785

828.564.9393 sMauldin.REMAXagent.com

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

53

www.smokymountainnews.com

November 11-17, 2015

WNC MarketPlace

Super

54

CROSSWORD

75 Tore on foot 76 Dined at a diner 77 Meat-stamping org.

ACROSS 78 Baden article 1 Singer Bocelli 79 Bar assoc. members 7 Almond-flavored 82 Roman 700 liqueurs 83 Conan of TV 16 Backyard building 85 Hood’s pistol 20 Talking amorously 21 Picked up while hitch- 86 1976 Michael Caine film hiking, say 90 Lead-in for “while” 22 Island off Scotland 23 1969 Liza Minnelli film 92 Avant-garde composer Erik 25 Scrawny 93 Rock’s Jethro — 26 Locality 94 Hectic hosp. areas 27 — -TASS (news 95 Clumsy ox agency) 28 Nation whose capital is 98 Cuts again, as a plank 101 Alternative to Alpo Abuja 103 1970 Barbra 30 1975 Robert Redford Streisand film film 110 Rules about legal 37 Highway hauler wrongs 38 Málaga Mrs. 111 Bites from puppies 39 Boozehound 112 Tennis champion 40 “C’— la vie!”

Arthur 43 Actress Sofer 114 1977 Scott Turow 45 Cake coating book 47 Asia’s largest desert 115 1941 Humphrey 51 1997 Helena Bonham Bogart film Carter film 122 Purplish brown 57 Con’s place 123 Schedule 58 Like an angel’s head 124 City in west Texas 59 Grammy nominee 125 Former Brit. Airways Zadora jets 60 Iraq neighbor 126 Saclike larval stage 61 Bugling animal of some flatworms 62 Foil’s heavier cousin 127 Scatter and drive 63 Common jazz chords away 66 Suffix with hotel or front DOWN 67 Gore and Franken 1 Drama units 68 Cong. member 69 2001 Josh Hartnett film 2 Rare kind of ball game 3 Performs, biblically 73 Columnist Hentoff 4 Choir platforms 74 “Sands of — Jima” BIRD WATCHING

5 Strep treater: Abbr.

6 Era 7 Heartburn 8 Neighbors of Thais 9 Disinclined (to) 10 — room (place for air hockey) 11 — de cologne 12 “Toddlers & Tiaras” airer 13 “— ToK” (2009 #1 hit for Ke$ha) 14 — mind (in agreement) 15 Unemotional sorts 16 Feature of the word “sign” 17 Stash away 18 Film composer Morricone 19 Senegal’s capital 24 In a cab, say 29 Slimy stuff 31 Hair-raising 32 Correct, as a manuscript 33 Taking care of the issue 34 Actress Nina 35 Makes an effort 36 Within reach 40 Rock singer Melissa 41 Some form-shifting garments 42 Moves instantly, in scifi 44 Meat-stock jelly 46 “Le Père —” (Balzac novel) 48 Area next to the sea 49 Love song singer 50 Places to dip quill pens 52 Calamity 53 Sty noise

54 Jazz pianist Earl — Hines 55 Outlook 56 Make money 63 City on the Loire 64 Bowler, e.g.

65 Krona earner 69 Impish tyke 70 Narrow strip of wood 71 Former Big Apple mayor Ed 72 Gold coin of yore 77 Tea holder 80 Ache (for) 81 Totally full 83 Earthen pots 84 Like mild weather 87 Basic point 88 Jacob’s wife 89 Genève’s country 91 Flute sounds 96 Belt piercer 97 Rascal — (country group) 99 Elapsed 100 Hucksters’ pitches 102 Bald people have visible ones 103 Alternatives to sunroofs 104 Baseball’s Wagner 105 Assemble 106 Smart as — 107 Ruffled 108 Music industry gp.

109 “For — interested ...”

113 Chemical compound 116 Punk music offshoot 117 Sea, to Yves 118 — -Z 119 Fond du — 120 Nourished 121 — Baba

answers on page 50

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE FOR YOU 1 Month Free with 12 Month Rental. Maggie Valley, Hwy. 19, 1106 Soco Rd. For more information call Torry

828.734.6500, 828.734.6700 maggievalleyselfstorage.com

FOR SALE BORING/CARPENTER BEE TRAPS No Chemicals, Poisons or Anything to Harm the Environment.

Handmade in Haywood County. 1 for $20, 2 or More for $15 each.

828.593.8321 CHAMPION SUPPLY Janitorial supplies. Professional cleaning products, vacuums, janitorial paper products, swimming pool chemicals, environmentally friendly chemicals, indoor & outdoor light bulbs, odor elimination products, equipment repair including household vacuums. Free delivery across WNC. www.championsupply.com 800.222.0581, 828.225.1075.

MTD YARDMASTER RIDING MOWER 36” 14hp B&S. Runs and Mows Fine, Needs Routine Maintenance.

Cowl Removed but Available. $250 Call 828.648.4372, Please leave message.

MEDICAL HEALTH INSURANCE IS REQUIRED. You might be paying too much.

It’s time to stop wasting money.

Get great coverage for less. Call today 888.679.2426 IF YOU USED THE BLOOD THINNER Xarelto and suffered internal bleeding, hemorrhaging, required hospitalization or a loved one died while taking Xarelto between 2011 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1.800.535.5727.

OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR ImogenOne - Regain Independence. Enjoy Greater Mobility. NO more Tanks! 100% Portable LongLasting Battery. Try It RISK-FREE! For Cash Buyers Call 1.800.514.4896 SAPA LIFE ALERT. 24/7. One press of a button sends help FAST! Medical, Fire, Burglar.

Even if you can't reach a phone!

FREE Brochure. Call 800.316.0745.

STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS Or Alcohol? Addicted To Pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free Assessment. 800.511.6075 SAPA VIAGRA!!

52 Pills only $99.00! The Original Little Blue Pill, your #1 Trusted Provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call today 1.888.410.1767. SAPA

SERVICES *LOWER THAT CABLE BILL! Get Satellite TV today! FREE System, installation and HD/DVR upgrade. Programming starting at $29.99. Call NOW 866.755.4235 SAPA 19.99/mo. DIRECTV HD Channels + Genie HD DVR + 3 months FREE HBO, SHOW, MAX & STARZ + FREE NFL Sunday Ticket!

Call Now 888.437.6598 SAPA EMERGENCIES CAN STRIKE At any time. Wise Food Storage makes it easy to prepare with tasty, easy-to-cook meals that have a 25-year shelf life. FREE sample.

Call: 800.621.2952

YARD SALES ESTATE LIQUIDATION SALE All personal property to be sold.

Real estate also for sale. Wed 11th - Sat. 14th 9a.m. - 4p.m. Sunday Auction if Required, 1p.m. - 5p.m.

62 South River Rd., Sylva, NC. Call Mark with Questions 404.468.3737

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The naturalist’s corner

BY DON H ENDERSHOT

Fight the good fight It’s like déjà vu all over again, —Yogi Berra (RIP) aybe some of you who, like me, are getting longer in the tooth are guilty of letting our guard down, of thinking old battles had been won and that today’s and tomorrow’s environmental (social too, but that’s a different column) issues had become arguments of degree not kind. But a quick look around shows that’s not the case.

Nationally, the Land and Water Conservation Fund — a hugely bipartisan piece of legislation created more than half a century ago and supported and encouraged by hunters, fishermen, hikers, birders and outdoors enthusiasts of all stripes — is on the chopping block. Rep. Rob Bishop, RUtah, has introduced legislation that would, “… considerably rework the popular, bipartisan conservation program, unduly limiting its scope and diminishing or eliminating successful components of the current program, such as the opportunities for private landowners to create conservation easements or work with partners on projects that would conserve landholdings rather

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than develop them. Also under Bishop’s bill, 20 percent of LWCF funds would be allocated to ‘workforce education,’ such as training programs for oil and gas industry workers.”

Don’t pay any attention to that quote because it’s just a bunch of tree huggers, right? Well, it’s from “Back Country Hunters and Anglers,” quoted on “Ammoland’s” website — certainly a hotbed of Prius-driving dolts who wouldn’t know a banana from a banana-clip.

And there seems to be a constant barrage of anti-science legislation being introduced in D.C., like the Secret Science Reform Act, designed to hamstring the EPA; the Federal Land Freedom Act, targeting the Endangered Species Act and the COMPETES Act which, among other things, cuts funding for the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy.

In our own wonderful state of denial, a.k.a. North Carolina, Gov. Pat McCrory recently signed what has nationally become known as the “Polluters Protection Act.” I wrote about it a couple of weeks ago, see: www.smokymountainnews.com/news/item /16640-more-than-one-way-to-skin-environmental-regulations.

North Carolina’s State Natural Heritage

Program has also been eviscerated.

Established in 1985, the NHP helps document and track rare flora and fauna plus helps map the state’s natural areas. The NHP’s budget has been slashed from $1.5 million in 2011-2012 to $400,000 this year, resulting in layoffs for about 60 percent of staff.

Local governments across Western North Carolina have also seen fit to wade into natural resource/environmental policy decisions. Six of the seven western counties — Graham, Swain, Clay, Cherokee, Macon and Haywood — have passed (non-binding) resolutions opposing the addition of any new wilderness areas in the Nantahala/Pisgah National Forests.

What’s intriguing about these actions is the fact that no new wilderness areas/designations have even been nominated at this point.

I think it’s been duly noted that the Forest Service stumbled a bit coming out of the gate last year as it began its first attempt at a management plan revision. The Nantahala and Pisgah forests are the first national forests in the country to attempt a plan revision and they, unfortunately, got the cart before the horse with regards to wilderness. This is probably largely due to the fact that the 2012 rule wasn’t finalized till after Nantahala-Pisgah began their

process. The new rule expands the wilderness-designation protocol requiring more acres to be evaluated.

It’s troubling to me that local elected officials saw fit to oppose any and all wilderness designation without even knowing what lands might be nominated — is there another Joyce Kilmer out there or another Shining Rock or Ellicott Rock. There are more than a million acres of forest in the NantahalaPisgah national forests; to think there is nothing left out there that is deserving of being protected as wilderness seems rather shortsighted.

With seemingly every level of government ready to turn its back on the environment, it looks like it’s time for us to get back in the game. As sportsmen, environmentalists, hikers, bikers, campers and voters, we have to, once again, make our presence known. The Forest Service will have already had one public meeting focused on wilderness designation by the time this article is out. There will be one more in Asheville from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, in the Mountain View Room of Kimmel Arena at University of North Carolina Asheville and the Forest Service will be taking public comments until Dec. 15. There are comment forms available at www.fs.uda.gov/gotonfsnc/nprevision and directions on how to comment.

(Don Hendershot is a writer and naturalist. He can be reached a ddihen1@bellsouth.net.)

November 11-17, 2015 Smoky Mountain News 55

November 11-17, 2015 Smoky Mountain News

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