Smoky Mountain News | November 24, 2021

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

November 24-30, 2021 Vol. 23 Iss. 26

HOLIDAY GUIDE INSIDE

CONTENTS On the Cover: Along the banks of the Tuckasegee River just a couple miles east of Bryson City, is Kituwah — the Mother Town of the Cherokee. The sacred site dates back 10,000 years and holds an entire people’s history, which is why it’s so important for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to protect the mound and surrounding land. (Page 12) Kituwah Fields. Holly Kays photo

News Holiday Gift Guide ..............................................................................................................4 Cherokee invests $15 million with Kituwah LLC ....................................................15 State budget includes teacher pay increase, COVID relief ................................16 Corbin, Pless secure $15 million for Haywood projects ....................................18 Woodhouse makes her NC-14 run official ..............................................................21 Corbin will run for re-election to Senate, not NC-14 ............................................22 New Register of Deeds in Jackson County ..............................................................23 Community Almanac ........................................................................................................25

Opinion We can all learn listening to each other ....................................................................26 Trump remains a danger to the republic ....................................................................27

A&E Ballet Conservatory presents ‘Nutcracker’ at WCU ..............................................28 Regular people shine in novel set in Paris..................................................................37

STAFF EDITOR/PUBLISHER: ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: ART DIRECTOR: DESIGN & WEBSITE: DESIGN & PRODUCTION: ADVERTISING SALES:

CLASSIFIEDS: NEWS EDITOR: WRITING:

ACCOUNTING & OFFICE MANAGER: DISTRIBUTION: CONTRIBUTING:

Scott McLeod. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@smokymountainnews.com Greg Boothroyd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . greg@smokymountainnews.com Micah McClure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . micah@smokymountainnews.com Travis Bumgardner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . travis@smokymountainnews.com Jessica Murray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jessica.m@smokymountainnews.com Susanna Shetley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . susanna.b@smokymountainnews.com Amanda Bradley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jc-ads@smokymountainnews.com Sophia Burleigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sophia.b@smokymountainnews.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Jessi Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jessi@smokymountainnews.com Holly Kays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . holly@smokymountainnews.com Hannah McLeod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hannah@smokymountainnews.com Cory Vaillancourt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cory@smokymountainnews.com Garret K. Woodward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . garret@smokymountainnews.com Amanda Singletary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . smnbooks@smokymountainnews.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Jeff Minick (writing), Chris Cox (writing), George Ellison (writing), Don Hendershot (writing), Susanna Shetley (writing)

CONTACT WAYNESVILLE | 144 Montgomery, Waynesville, NC 28786 P: 828.452.4251 | F: 828.452.3585 SYLVA | 629 West Main Street, Sylva, NC 28779 P: 828.631.4829 | F: 828.631.0789 INFO & BILLING | P.O. Box 629, Waynesville, NC 28786 Copyright 2021 by The Smoky Mountain News.™ Advertising copyright 2021 by The Smoky Mountain News.™ All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The Smoky Mountain News is available for free in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain and parts of Buncombe counties. Limit one copy per person.

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State budget funds more trails, parks and conservation ......................................38

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My annual ritual of shopping local et’s face it, most people either can’t wait to begin their holiday shopping for loved ones or they just dread the whole spectacle. Put me in the camp of those who has found a way to enjoy it.

Let me explain. I procrastinate and do so willingly, but with a plan.

Over the years, I’ve often been seen traipsing around the shopping districts near my Waynesville home on Christmas Eve or perhaps as early as Dec. 23, credit card in tow, buying gifts for my Editor lovely wife, my wonderful daughters and my favorite son. I’ve become quite adept at not feeling the pressure, not letting the season overwhelm me, and definitely not driving my truck into the big-box parking lots amid the frantic mobs of last-minute shoppers angling for that last parking spot with a crazed look in their eyes. Not me.

In fact, if you want that warm, fuzzy, holiday-as-it’s-supposed-to-feel Norman Rockwell experience, then here’s what I recommend: park your car near some small downtown business district, pull out gloves and a warm hat, zip up your coat, and meander into a half dozen or so of the locally owned stores (whether that’s in Franklin, Sylva, Bryson City, Dillsboro, Canton, Waynesville, Hazelwood Village, or another of our scenic, cool shopping districts, it doesn’t matter).

I’ve lived in Waynesville since 1992, nearly 30 years. That means that during my holiday shopping excursions I run into old friends, my children’s friends who use to hang out at our house years ago, young adults who years ago I coached in soccer, baseball or basketball, people who use to work here with us at The Smoky Mountain News and Smoky Mountain Living magazine, and many other local acquaintances.

You’ll also likely pass a Santa greeting small children, see great decorations, perhaps be given a cider or some other delec-

November 24-30, 2021

HOLIDAY GUIDE

Scott McLeod

SMOKY MOUNTAIN NEWS

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table holiday confection by one of those shopkeepers, maybe even run into some carolers or the local high school band ensemble performing on a street corner or on the courthouse lawn. Tis the season.

This kind of holiday gift buying has been much publicized in recent years as “shop local” or “shop small,” and its importance to the local economy can’t be ignored. Those local business ownOrchard Coffee. ers at my favorite book shop or favorite jewelry store or art gallery keep their money in our communities. They provide monetary support to those youth sports teams I used to coach, along with helping our local schools, churches and nonprofits.

In fact, there’s a better than average chance that the local shopkeeper who you are spending your hard-earned money with also volunteers with or even leads one of those important nonprofits or youth leagues. That’s how it works in small communities, and keeping the money circling back through the place you call home has never been more important. Otherwise, those businesses won’t survive and that sense of place and community that makes Western North Carolina so special will slowly slip away.

Unfortunately, it’s very easy to forego this kind of experience, to just sit at home or at your desk at work and do your shopping.

The pandemic, as we know, has led to an explosion of online shopping. By the time the first quarter of 2021 was over, Amazon’s profits were up 220% from the same period last year. Same story for most of the other

huge online retailers. Does anyone really get excited about shopping that way? And does Jeff Bezos really need more money?

When I’m on those shopping excursions downtown, I almost always stop in at the local coffee roaster, restaurant, bakery or pub — heck, I’ve been known to stop at all four in a single day. I enjoy exchanging a brief conversation with the servers or owners, wishing each other a happy holiday and engaging in some small talk about each others’ lives.

Making connections, seeing friends, perhaps finding new ones. Buying original and hopefully thoughtful presents at unique and locally owned stores. Walking around on an often-frigid day, relishing in the fact that we in Western North Carolina get a taste of all four seasons, loving this place I call home.

Truth be told, it’s gotten to the point I put off holiday shopping until I have the time to do it in just this way. It’s my ritual, now, one I refuse to give up. Happy shopping.

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

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The numbers • Small businesses accounted for 65% of all new jobs over the past 17 years.

• Small businesses employ 77 million Americans.

• 89% of consumers agree that independent businesses contribute positively to local economies.

• Residential neighborhoods served by successful independent business districts gained, on average, 50% more in home values than their citywide markets.

• Independent retailers and restaurants return more than three times as much money per dollar of sales back to their communities than national chains.

• If just half the U.S. employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate $42.6 billion in revenue.

Sources: U.S. Small Business Administration; Intuit Small Business Innovation Study; U.S. Dept. of Labor.

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he saying “the more the merrier” certainly applies during the holiday season. But during a season of big gifts, extra food and travel, “more” can exact a heavy toll on the environment.

According to Stanford University, Americans generate 25 percent more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve than during the rest of the year. While no one wants to take anything away from the spirit of holiday season, everyone can take steps to make the holidays more eco-friendly. In fact, there are various eco-friendly gifts that can make great presents and benefit the environment at the same time.

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When making holiday shopping lists, think of gifts that offer experiences rather than material goods. Gifts that involve experiences, such as eating out at a local restaurant or attending a play or musical, decrease reliance on the supply chain. Such gifts also reduce clutter in the recipient’s house and conserve the resources otherwise used to manufacture alternative items that would have been purchased. Experiential gifts that also tap into environmental pursuits, such as touring with an animal rescue group, or accommodations at a carbon-neutral hotel can be an added bonus.

AVOID GAG OR USELESS GIFTS Select gifts only with utility in mind.

Skip purchases that are made only to beefup the look of presents under the tree or to make it appear that gifting was more generous. Items that a person cannot or will not use will ultimately be relegated to the trash, which is wasteful.

GET CRAFTY Gifts from the kitchen or ones made by the giver can be crafted from sustainable materials. They also show how you care by taking the time to customize a gift for the recipient.

Fancy wrapping paper certainly looks nice, but choose other materials that can be reused. Look for decorative tins, boxes, fancy gift bags, and other items that can be reused for years to come.

Sustainability is possible during a season of excess when gift givers shop and wrap gifts with the environment in mind.

Select gifts only with utility in mind.

Skip purchases that are made only to beefup the look of presents under the tree or to make it appear that gifting was more generous. Items that a person cannot or will not use will ultimately be relegated to the trash.

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EXPERIENTIAL GIFTS

Select gifts made by local artisans or companies that operate domestically. This cuts down on the carbon emissions from having to ship products from long distances or even overseas.

HOLIDAY GUIDE

Eco-friendly gift options

WRAP IN REUSABLE MATERIALS Fancy wrapping paper certainly looks nice, but choose other materials that can be reused. Look for decorative tins, boxes, fancy gift bags, and other items that can be reused for years to come.

Sustainability is possible during a season of excess when gift givers shop and wrap gifts with the environment in mind.

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Help isolated loved ones this holiday season

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phenomenon called “cabin fever” tends to set in around late autumn or in midwinter. Long hours of darkness coupled with cold, inclement weather often is a recipe for increased time spent indoors.

For people who live alone, the effects of cabin fever might be more pronounced.

In addition to seasonal cabin fever, this year another factor comes into play: social distancing and voluntary quarantine as a result of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.

Even those who may venture outside to socialize, particularly around the holiday season, may be hesitant or unable to do so to help prevent the spread of the virus.

In these instances — and especially during the holiday season — friends and loved ones can mitigate feelings of isolation in various ways. n Schedule video chats. Video conferencing apps have become the communication vehicles of choice during the era of social distancing. Different applications and services continue to evolve and help people stay in touch. Plan regular chats, either once or twice per week with isolated or vulnerable people. Try to organize a large group chat on the holiday itself so no one has to spend Christmas or Chanukah alone. n Drop off supplies. Even though supermarket shop-from-home and other delivery services have normalized somewhat since the start of the pandemic, treat individuals who may be isolated to some personalized

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attention. Put together care packages of supplies or holiday treats and deliver them in person so you can see the smiles that result from being able to visit with someone familiar. n Send uplifting messages. Children or even adults can make personalized cards and mail them to loved ones at home or those who may be in long-term care facilities. Send new mailings every week or two so that residents always have something to look forward to in the mail. n Start a virtual club. A book club or another shared interest can be the catalyst for more frequent communication. A club puts everyone on the same page and enables them to come together, via phone or video chat, for a discussion. n Ask for help learning a new skill. Along the same vein as a virtual club, lessons on everything from woodworking to crochet to

making favorite holiday recipes can be conducted online. Give an isolated individual daily purpose and distraction by engaging him or her with online lessons.

Isolation and feelings of loneliness can affect anyone who normally suffers from cabin fever. However, this year it may be more pronounced, as it could be coupled with social distancing precautions that have already been in effect for some time.

Classic holiday films families can enjoy together

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scores of children since it was first released more than 50 years ago. n “Holiday Inn” (1942): Hollywood legends Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire star in this classic that is perhaps most remembered for introducing the Irving Berlin classic “White Christmas” to the masses. The film boasts a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has something for fans of song, dance and romance.

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n “Arthur Christmas” (2011): Not all Christmas films date back to the 20th century. This animated tale tells the story of Arthur (voiced by James McAvoy), Santa’s youngest son who is thrust into the Christmas Eve business of delivering presents when his father fails to deliver a present to one child out of the hundreds of millions of kids on his list. n “A Christmas Carol” (1951): Many holiday season celebrants cannot imagine letting a season go by without watching at least one adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. The 1951 version is widely considered the most faithful to Dickens’ 1843 novella that recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. Alastair Sim stars as Scrooge, and many consider his performance the best of any actor to take a turn as the notorious 19th century miser.

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he holiday season is steeped in tradition. Few traditions may elicit more collective belly laughs than holiday movie night, a tradition in millions of households across the globe. Families can consider these classic holiday films as they plan family movie night this holiday season. n “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947): This classic is centered around a man named “Kris Kringle” (Edmund Gwenn) who claims to be the real “Babes In Toyland” Santa Claus after a successful stint as a department store Santa in midtown Manhattan. A trial to determine if Mr. Kringle is telling the truth soon follows.

This version of the tale has earned a 96% rating on the popular film review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. n “A Christmas Story” (1983): Though it airs all day long on Christmas on the cable television network TBS, families can get a head-start on that marathon and watch the film uninterrupted whenever they choose. Families can laugh together as 9-year-old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) hopes to unwrap his official Red Ryder BB gun on Christmas morning. The film, which boasts an 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, includes a memorable performance by Darren McGavin, who plays Ralphie’s father. n “Babes In Toyland” (1934): Also known as “March of the Wooden Soldiers,” this nearly century-old classic stars the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy as two helpful tenants living in Mother Peep’s shoe in Toyland. n “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1967): An animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic, this film has entertained

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tially dangerous inflammation of the pancreas that produces toxic enzymes and causes illness and dehydration. Small bones can get lodged in a pet’s throat or intestines as well. n Avoid artificial sweeteners. Exercise caution when baking sugar-free desserts. The artificial sweetener xylitol can cause dogs’ blood pressure to drop to dangerously low levels. Xylitol is found in some toothpastes and gum, so tell overnight guests to keep their toiletries secure to avoid accidental exposure. n Be cautious with cocktails. If the celebration will include alcoholic beverages, place unattended adult beverages where pets cannot reach them. Ingested alcohol can make pets ill, weak and even induce comas. n Be picky about plants. Mistletoe, holly and poinsettias can be dangerous in petfriendly households. These plants can cause gastrointestinal upset and may lead to other problems if ingested, so be careful with where you place them. n Designate a safe space for pets. If the holiday hustle proves too much for cats, dogs, birds, and more, give the pet a safe, quiet spot away from the crowds.

HOLIDAY GUIDE

he holidays are a time to spend with friends and family. Celebrating and entertaining are large components of what makes Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, and New Year’s festivities so enjoyable. Holiday hosts with pets must consider companion animals when planning the festivities.

The holiday season brings added dangers for pets. The American Veterinary Association notes that, by keeping hazards in mind, pet owners can ensure their fourlegged friends enjoy the season as much as everyone else. n Secure the tree. Securely anchor the Christmas tree so that it won’t tip over on anyone, including rambunctious pets. Also, stagnant tree stand water can grow bacteria. If a pet should drink the water, it may end up with nausea or diarrhea. Replenish the tree basin with fresh water daily. n Keep food out of reach. Situate food buffets beyond the reach of hungry and curious animals. Warn guests to promptly throw out their leftovers so that dogs and cats do not sneak away with scraps that may cause stomach upset or worse. Fatty foods can promote pancreatitis — a poten-

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Holiday books for the young

BY J EFF M INICK ime to head off to Santa’s workshop and see what Christmas books he and the elves have in mind for the kids.

First up is Carol Matney’s “St. Nick’s Clique” (Page Publishing, Inc. 2019, 25 pages). Matney, a North Carolinian I’ve known for nearly 30 years, whisks us off to the North Pole for a look at how Santa Claus teaches his reindeer to fly and how he names them for their personalities. Cupid, for example, receives his name because “I am happy when we all get along and are kind to each other, and we help one another.”

The largest and strongest reindeer is “lightning fast” and so named Blitzen, from the German word for “fast.” At the end of this charming tale, we meet a little reindeer with a glowing red nose, and Santa wonders “if … somehow, someday, there might be some way to include him in St. Nick’s clique.” Watch for the sequel.

In “The Muppet Christmas Carol: The Illustrated Holiday Classic” (Insight Editions, 2019, 40 pages), Brooke Vitale and Luke Flowers blend Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol” with a whole bunch of Muppets. Brooke Vitale’s writing — grownups will get a kick out of reading this one aloud — couple with the bright and humorous illustrations of Flowers to make “The Muppet Christmas Carol” a fun read for the little ones, especially for fans of the 1992 Muppets “Christmas Carol” movie.

Tony DiTerlizzi, who along with Holly Black gave young people “The Spiderwick Chronicles,” presents even younger readers with “The Broken Ornament” (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2018, 48 pages). Here Jack disobeys his parents and breaks a treasured ornament that belonged to his mother’s grandmother. With his mother in tears in her bedroom, Jack encounters Tinsel, a Christmas fairy, who asks him what he wishes for. “I want the best Christmas ever!” Jack declares, and Tinsel loads him down with decorations, music, and presents. At the end of this celebration, Jack realizes he has to make it the best Christmas for his mother too, and comes up with sweet way to do so.

Perhaps the most unusual of these books is Marlon Bundo’s “Best Christmas Ever ”(Regnery Kids, 2019, 39 pages). Here we meet Marlon Bundo Pence, the BOTUS (Bunny of the United States), a creation of writer Charlotte Pence, daughter of Vice President Pence, and illustrator Karen Pence, his wife. First introduced in Marlon Bundo’s “A Day In The Life Of The Vice President,” in this book Marlon hops about the former vice presidents home showing us the preparations for Christmas as he collects bits and pieces of various stuff to make

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an ornament for the tree. Incidentally, Marlon is a real bunny belonging to the Pence family.

And now a return to a classic already mentioned: Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

Even if we’ve never read the book, we know the plot and characters of “A Christmas Carol” because we’ve seen some of the movies, more than two dozen of them. Embedded in our culture is Scrooge, the penny-pinching businessman whose “Bah, Humbug,” and very name became a part of our language. Jacob Marley, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim are household names. We know the story: Scrooge’s solitude, greed, and contempt for Christmas; the visitations of the Three Spirits — ghosts of the Christmases past, present, and future — to show Scrooge how far he has fallen from the right path; his conversion from miser to a man who “will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.”

In the opening of “A Christmas Carol,” when the suffering ghost of Jacob Marley, his former business partner, warns Scrooge that unless he changes he too will find in the afterlife: “No rest, no peace. Incessant torture of remorse,” Scrooge replies, “But you were always a good man of business, Jacob.”

“Business,” cried the Ghost, wringing its hands again. “Mankind was my business.

The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, benevolence, were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!”

Charity, mercy, forbearance, benevolence: Good ideas all, but sadly lacking in our public forum these last few years.

Instead, our mainstream media, online commentators, and many of our politicians from all parts of the political spectrum all too often seem committed to malevolence, spite, slander, and innuendo.

During this time of year, Americans celebrate several holidays. Thanksgiving, a day set aside as a time for gratitude, is recently passed. There is Hanukkah, Hebrew for “dedication,” when Jews recollect the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. There is Christmas, when Christians honor the birth of Christ and many non-believers celebrate “good will toward men.” Finally, there is New Year’s Eve and Day, when all of us welcome the change in the calendar and hope for the future.

Perhaps this year, we will learn from Dickens and make our holiday season and that New Year a festival of charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence.

(Jeff Minick reviews books and has written four of his own: two novels, “Amanda Bell” and “Dust On Their Wings,” and two works of nonfiction, “Learning As I Go” and “Movies Make the Man.” minick0301@gmail.com.)

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Once standing 15 to 20 feet tall, Kituwah Mound is now a gentle bump on the landscape — but it still holds sacred importance to the Cherokee people.

Holly Kays photo

Anchored at Kituwah

November 24-30, 2021

After 138 years, Cherokee will reclaim its Mother Town as sovereign territory

Smoky Mountain News

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER restless autumn wind ripples through the valley, passing over green fields, across turned-up garden plots and through tall rows of dried corn stalks. Their raspy skeletons rustle in the breeze, which exits the field to send a few glimmering strands of gossamer sailing over the gravel path that leads past Kituwah Mound.

“For me it’s like coming home, every time I come down here,” says Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians tribal member Juanita Wilson, standing under a blue November sky.

Wilson has been “coming home” regularly since the spring of 2020, when the tribal government’s pandemic-induced shutdown meant that Wilson, who manages the training and development program within the EBCI Department of Human Resources, suddenly had a lot more time on her hands.

She used that time to prioritize her health, getting on a bike for the first time since she was 12. Kituwah Fields, with its safe network of flat, gravel roads and prevailing pastoral calm, became the setting for this new ritual.

Quickly, the bike rides transcended exercise. Wilson, who co-chairs the board of directors for the Nikwasi Initiative, which holds the deed for Nikwasi Mound in Franklin, has cultivated a fascination and rev12 erence for Cherokee mounds ever since she

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became involved in the conservation of Cowee Mound about 15 years ago. As the bike rides became a regular ritual, she took it upon herself to start learning everything she could about Kituwah and its history. Soon, she felt a close connection to the place and to the people who came there before her.

“When I come down, I often say, ‘Shiyo, ancestors,’” said Wilson, using the Cherokee word for “hello.” “I will acknowledge them, and it’s just such a good feeling when I’m biking. It’s easy to put a good 10, 15 miles on it, just going all through and knowing that the Cherokee presence is everywhere, all throughout.”

A TESTAMENT TO PERSEVERANCE Resting along the banks of the Tuckasegee River just a couple miles east of modern-day Bryson City, Kituwah has a history far older than any of the written accounts that seek to describe it. Archeologists date the site back to nearly 10,000 years ago, and all three federally recognized Cherokee tribes consider it to be the origin place for the Cherokee people.

It is the Mother Town, the Cherokees’ most sacred place, the site of a mound that once stood some 15 to 20 feet tall, and the burial place of at least 15 people — and probably many more.

According to James Mooney’s much-referenced book “Myths of the Cherokee,” first published in 1900, mound construction began by laying a circle of stones on the ground, with a fire built in the center and the body of a prominent chief or priest who had recently died placed near it, together with various objects of spiritual importance. A priest then conjured the objects with disease, ensuring that even if an enemy did manage to destroy the town, he would never make it home. The women brought soil in baskets to build up the mound, leaving an open place at the center in which a hollow cedar trunk was fitted around the fire. Once the mound was complete, the townhouse was built atop it, and a man known as a fire keeper stayed there always to ensure that the fire continued burning.

“The townhouse was always built on the level bottom lands by the river in order that the people might have smooth ground for their dances and ballplays and might be able to go down to water during the dance,” Mooney wrote.

The Cherokee heartland held many mounds — a 19th-century survey from the Smithsonian Institution recorded about 40 in Western North Carolina — but the one at Kituwah was special. Before European contact, the Cherokee territory was immense, spreading across the Southern Appalachian region to cover parts of eight states. Kituwah was the tribe’s political and spiritual center.

“This was the area where we came back to hold Grand Council, where we came back to have large meetings and have celebrations, the planning of war,” said Brandon Stephens, the EBCI’s director of realty. “It was all those things.”

With European conquest came a massive loss of life and cultural connection for the Cherokee people, and Kituwah was one casualty of that. The tribe lost ownership of the village area in an 1883 land cessation treaty with the United States.

By the 1990s, the site was a farm known by most as Ferguson’s Fields. Stephens remembers seeing corn, tobacco, tomatoes and all manner of crops grown on the flat bottomland during his childhood in the 1970s.

The once-towering mound had been plowed so many times it was little more than a bump on the landscape.

But in November 1996, under the leadership of then-Principal Chief Joyce Dugan, the tribe reclaimed ownership of its spiritual heartland, purchasing the 309-acre parcel from the Ferguson family.

Twenty-five years later, the tribe is celebrating a new, more permanent milestone for the site’s protection. In October, Principal Chief Richard Sneed signed an agreement to convey the land into federal trust for the EBCI, meaning that Kituwah will soon become part of the tribe’s sovereign territory.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has already

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Since the pandemic struck, visits to Kituwah have become a regular part of life for tribal member Juanita Wilson, who also co-chairs the Nikwasi Initiative Board of Directors. Holly Kays photo

The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad bisects the property, which continues up the hill on the opposite side of the road.

Holly Kays photo

“This was the area where we came back to hold Grand Council, where we came back to have large meetings and have celebrations, the planning of war. It was all those things.”

— Brandon Stephens, EBCI director of realty

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Learn more about the legacy this month seeks to recognize — and the stories of tribes scattered throughout the nation — at nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov. soon. The D.C. BIA office recently decided to push decision-making on fee-to-trust applications to its regional offices, Sneed said during an Oct. 11 Annual Council session, and that change has sped up the process “significantly.”

On the same date in 2014 that the tribe submitted its initial application to place Kituwah into trust, it also applied for the same action at a 345-acre tract located nearby at Cooper’s Creek. That process is “a couple of baby steps” behind the one for Kituwah, said Stephens — about two weeks ago, the tribe received the BIA’s notice of decision agreeing to take the land into trust. Pending results of a public comment period currently underway, the official paperwork will likely follow.

The EBCI is also in discussion with the BIA over the process to reclaim an 18-acre field in the center of the Qualla Boundary,

Smoky Mountain News

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November is Native American Heritage Month

Simultaneously, a bill now before Congress seeks to take 76.1 acres of that site — the portion containing the museum and two memorials, as well as some support acreage — into trust through legislative action. The bill passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 407-16 on Nov. 1 — all North Carolina and Tennessee representatives voted in favor — and on Nov. 17 the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing on the matter, with Sneed testifying.

A similar bill introduced in 2019 and another in 2018 also passed the House but never received a vote or committee hearing in the Senate. Efforts previous to 2018 made even less progress. The Nov. 17 hearing marks the bill’s furthest advance to date.

When the federal government takes land into trust for a tribe, it holds the land title for the benefit of that tribe, effectively extending the boundary of the tribe’s sovereign territory to include that property. The land in question ceases to be under state control or subject to county property taxes and becomes part of the tribal nation.

While the tribe seeks the same legal status for all four properties — Kituwah, Cooper’s Creek, lands near Vonore and the old elementary school site — it has different intentions for each area.

The elementary school site and Cooper’s Creek could be developed to help bring the tribe toward its future, Stephens said.

Cherokee leaders have long discussed using the Cooper’s Creek property to address the critical need for new housing. Meanwhile, tribal leaders are discussing development ideas to transform the old elementary school site into a commercial destination capitalizing on the ever-increasing demand for out-

November 24-30, 2021

o issued its decision to approve the tribe’s o request — barring any unforeseen complications from a recently completed public comment period, all that remains is to gather the e necessary signatures and file the final paperwork to make the change official. e “We have persevered for centuries e through hardship and fought to perpetuate - our lives, language and culture,” Sneed said e in a statement issued after the signing. y “Taking this land into trust will ensure this most sacred site will be preserved and honn ored in perpetuity. This land will never again s be taken from our people.” s Since the day the tribe bought the proper- ty in 1996, said Stephens, it desired to see it become part of the tribal trust lands, but the d process was long, complicated and bureaup cracy-ridden. The fact that the tribe has now proven itself capable of walking through the - complex 16-step process says something e important about the tribe’s growing capacity l and organizational sophistication. l “It gives us a greater sense of identity for what we were and knowing who we are and - what we’re going toward — just being able to r control our own destiny and knowing that we l have the resources to do that,” Stephens said. o e n XPANDING THE OUNDARY Kituwah is not the only site that the tribe y anticipates adding to its sovereign territory

currently held by the BIA. In the mid-to-late 1800s, Stephens said, Cherokee families gave the land to the tribe to build a school, and from there it went into trust for the BIA to provide those educational facilities. The building eventually fell into disrepair, and when the Cherokee Central Schools were built in the 2000s, the school became surplus property. It’s now an empty field that lies along Tsali Boulevard between the BIA’s local offices and the commercial strip at the intersection with U.S. 19.

Eventually, the building was demolished, and the BIA agreed to transfer it back to tribal control — but years later, there’s still disagreement as to how to make that happen. In a phone call last week, Stephens said, the central office in Washington, D.C., said it wanted the parties to go through the same fee-totrust process used for other properties like Kituwah or Cooper’s Creek, while the Eastern Regional Office of the BIA pushed for a simpler avenue, because the property is already in federal trust — just not for the EBCI. Finally, the tribe is seeking sovereign ownership of six tracts near Vonore, Tennessee, currently owned by the Tennessee Valley Authority but held in easement by the EBCI. They total about 180 acres and are home to the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, the Chota Memorial and the Tanasi Memorial. The property borders Tellico Lake, whose creation inundated the sites of several ancient towns — including Tanasi, for which Tennessee was named — as well as the gravesites of thousands of years of Cherokee ancestors.

During the Oct. 18 Annual Council, Tribal Council voted unanimously on a resolution authorizing Sneed to submit a fee-to-trust application to the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.

S EE KITUWAH, PAGE 14 13

The tribe encourages members to adopt garden plots and grow food on their ancestral land at Kituwah. Holly Kays photo news

“When I come down, I often say, ‘Shiyo, ancestors’. I will acknowledge them, and it’s just such a good feeling when I’m biking.

It’s easy to put a good 10, 15 miles on it, just going all through and knowing that the Cherokee presence is everywhere, all throughout.”

— Juanita Wilson

November 24-30, 2021

KITUWAH, CONTINUED FROM 13 door experiences, products and services.

“It’s something we really need to put back into our ownership, because it is probably one of the most valuable pieces of retail property in town,” Stephens said.

Meanwhile, the Vonore lands would be places of cultural — not commercial — importance. The legislation currently before Congress explicitly prohibits gaming on the 76 acres described in that bill.

For Kituwah, too, the goal is preservation.

It is and will continue to be a place where Cherokee people go for ceremonies, dances and celebrations. A quiet place of connection with those who came before. A place whose rich soil tribal members cultivate into food for their families and blessings for their neighbors.

Kituwah won’t become a commercial development, said Stephens. And should any tribal leaders in the future second-guess that decision, they’d find that most of the proper-

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ty is in the floodplain, and therefore unbuildable. Kituwah’s own form of self-preservation, perhaps.

VALUE OF PLACE The fee-to-trust process is an important tool for Native American tribes to grow their boundaries and exercise their sovereignty, but it’s not a skeleton key.

“Just because we buy property doesn’t necessarily mean that we ought to just press to have it put into trust,” Stephens said.

The solution depends — on how close the property is to the tribe’s existing boundaries, its specific cultural value and the economic implications of maintaining it as deeded land versus trust land. For many of the tribe’s business ventures, deeded property makes more sense. The obvious exception is that of the tribe’s extremely lucrative casinos in Cherokee and Murphy. Those facilities reside on trust land and would not be allowed to exist were they built on deeded land.

“There’s value, obviously, in property,” said Stephens. “They don’t make any more of it, and in time land appreciates. Not everybody can own trust property, but most people can own fee-simple property.”

A quick search of county land records shows that tribal LLCs own at least 24 acres in Haywood County, 9 acres in Jackson County and 20 acres in Jackson County. Meanwhile, the tribal government owns about 744 acres in Jackson County and 204 acres in Macon County, in addition to considerable lands in Swain County — including the more than 600 acres at Kituwah and Cooper’s Creek.

Out of all that property — some of which the tribe has held for decades — Cooper’s Creek and Kituwah are the only tracts the tribe is currently seeking to take into federal trust.

“For us to own fee-simple property without putting it into trust, I think it builds good political capital for us with the counties and the state,” said Stephens.

Many of the newer acquisitions are the

result of activity at Kituwah LLC, the company the tribe created in 2018 to diversify its revenue streams. Because Kituwah LLC and its subsidiaries are revenue-driven operations, the inherent economic value in deeded land is typically advantageous for their purposes.

“Those are long-term investments, and that’s something that the tribe needed,” Big Cove Representative Teresa McCoy said during a Nov. 4 discussion on the LLC’s activities. “Ela Campground, for instance, is deeded property.

That’s an asset. When we put land into trust, we remove the value of that property.”

The value McCoy spoke of was assessed real estate value, but trust land has its own kind of value — a value that stems from the comfort of knowing that land will always be a place where tribal sovereignty and self-determination have the last word.

Walking the paths of Kituwah, where her ancestors once laughed, cried, worked, played and worshipped, Wilson can see that value clearly through the lenses of her Prada sunglasses.

The glasses are a symbol of the overwhelming change the tribe has seen in her lifetime, and of the need to stay grounded in the eternal amid those seismic shifts. Wilson was raised by her great-grandparents, to whom it never would have occurred to even dream about owning designer sunglasses. But soaring casino profits and the resulting percapita payments to tribal members have opened up previously unimaginable opportunities for travel, education and the occasional impulse purchase.

“It’s really cool, but yet keeping your mind at home, keeping your mind on where you come from, it’s real important,” Wilson said. “And for the young people, even more important. They’ve got to lead. They have to carry on.”

The fields of Kituwah will help them shoulder that load.

“It’s a sense of place,” she said, “and it anchors you back to the good things.”

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November 24-30, 2021 Smoky Mountain News

BY HOLLY KAYS ny’s endeavors span the gamut from a medSTAFF WRITER ical complex that it purchased in he Cherokee Tribal Council voted Weaverville to a Virginia modular manufacunanimously this month to allocate turing factory that it bought out of bank$15 million to Kituwah LLC as an equiruptcy in 2019 to a stake in a medical marity investment from the tribe. juana manufacturing facility in While large, the sum is substantially Pennsylvania. smaller than the $35 million the tribe gave Business is going well, Hubble told the LLC in March or the $25 million it Tribal Council. First established in 2018, the approved in October 2020. Both of those LLC began conducting business in fiscal allocations were for development of the year 2019 and had budgeted to lose money 200-acre property the tribe purchased in for the first two years, finally starting to 2019 along Interstate 40 in Sevier County, turn a profit in fiscal year 2021. But the but the Nov. 4 resolution approving the $15 million did not specify what the money would fund. The original version also did not specify where the money would come from, but floor amendments approved that day stated it would come from the tribe’s investment accounts.

Prior to the Nov. 4 vote, Tribal Council held a closed session in which it Kituwah LCC CEO Mark Hubble presents his funding request discussed the to Tribal Council. EBCI photo projects Kituwah LLC is pursuing and would use the money for. However, that list is not yet profits began to roll in a year earlier than public, said Kituwah CEO Mark Hubble. planned, and the gains are only accelerat“Because we are in active negotiations ing. On average, Hubble said, investments with outside parties and the uses of the are coming in “slightly north of 10%.” equity were discussed in closed session, I Despite that early success, the LLC is not cannot comment except to say that some yet paying dividends to the tribe or its portion of the funds will be used for theatre members, a fact that constantly elicits quesupgrades, including the introduction of tions from tribal citizens accustomed to the reclining seating, as well as added food and direct link between casino revenues and the entertainment options,” Hubble said. checks that reach their mailboxes a few The public discussion Nov. 4 focused on months later. how the money might impact the Cherokee Hubble told Tribal Council that delaying Phoenix Theater. Kituwah plans significant the start of dividend payments will ultiupgrades for the facility in response to mately make the company more profitable. changes in consumer expectations for the Online retail giant Amazon, for example, movie theater experience. didn’t pay a single dividend for 15 years, “Cinemas who do not (make these and that delay allowed the company to reinimprovements), they’re just going to go vest its income and ultimately become bigaway,” Hubble told Tribal Council. “We’ve ger than it would have been able to otherseen that with AMC’s theaters. AMC wise. bought some middle-class, lower theaters.

Kituwah will likely adopt an official diviThose are struggling. The ones that they dend policy after about four years or so of upgraded are doing fine. This is a phenomedoing business, according to the appendix non that’s happening throughout the cineattached to the company’s annual report to ma industry, and it’s a necessary phenomeTribal Council. The recommended dividend non, I think, to survive.” policy included in the document says that The movie theater is one of many projdividends might begin in year five at 10% ects that are either in progress or in the disand slowly increase to a maximum of cussion phase at Kituwah LLC. The compaaround 25% after 10 years.

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State budget includes teacher pay increase, COVID relief

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER fter years of working to provide public education during a pandemic without pay raises, or a state budget, public schools in North Carolina will once again operate with a state budget in place after it was signed Nov. 18 by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper.

The budget does address many important issues like teacher and support staff pay increases, COVID relief and a hold harmless provision to fund schools at pre-pandemic enrollment levels. However, it does not fully fund the Leandro remedial plan — a sevenyear plan for North Carolina Public Schools intended to increase funding for low wealth school districts, providing equal education for students in less affluent parts of the state.

“This budget moves North Carolina forward in important ways. Funding for high speed internet, our universities and community colleges, clean air and drinking water and desperately needed pay increases for teachers and state employees are all critical for our state to emerge from this pandemic stronger than ever. I will continue to fight for progress where this budget falls short but believe that, on balance, it is an important step in the right direction,” said Cooper.

In total, the budget allots $25.9 billion for public education in fiscal year 2021-22 and $27 billion in FY 2022-23. Of that, $10.6 billion will go to K-12 education in FY 2021-22 and $10.9 billion in FY 2022-23. The NC Education Lottery will provide $528 million to the needs based public school capitol building fund and $80 million to the newly created repair and renovations fund.

“We’ve not had a completely revised state budget in three years. And so to have one is very good because we know where we stand, not only on pay, but on things like staff development for teachers or money to buy paper and pencils and computers and all those things. So it’s really good to have a budget,” said Superintendent of Haywood County Schools Dr. Bill Nolte.

Smoky Mountain News

November 24-30, 2021

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PAY INCREASES

The new budget accounts for an average 5% pay raise for teachers, and most other state employees, over the next two years. Principals will receive a 2.5% pay raise over the next two years. For school support staff, the minimum salary will be raised to $15 an hour.

“I think that there are a lot of very positive aspects to be included in the new budget.

Obviously, our teaching staff, our support staff, our non-certified staff — they very 16 much deserve to get a pay increase,” said

Jackson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers. “It’s a hard situation to be in because they haven’t received one for such a long, long time. So obviously I believe it should be much greater for the job that all of our educators are doing no matter what their role, but it feels good to know that this state is finally seeing what the teachers are doing for our families and for our students and know that they are going to be compensated, no matter how small it feels right now, it does feel good to be recognized.”

In addition to pay raises, most teachers in North Carolina will receive supplements.

Most districts in North Carolina offer supplements to the state and federal salaries, but counties with lower property tax base than wealthier counties aren’t able to offer as

“This budget moves North Carolina forward in important ways. Funding for high speed internet, our universities and community colleges, clean air and drinking water and desperately needed pay increases for teachers and state employees are all critical for our state to emerge from this pandemic stronger than ever.”

— Gov. Roy Cooper

much. The idea is that state-funded salary supplements would help make less-wealthy districts more competitive.

The only counties in the state not receiving a state-funded salary supplement are Buncombe, Durham, Guilford, Mecklenburg and Wake. Haywood County will receive $971 in teacher supplemental assistance per state funded teacher, Jackson will receive $930, Macon will receive $2,737 and Swain will receive $2,953. With supplements included, average teacher pay in North Carolina will rise by 6.7%.

Nolte noted some concern over where the money for pay raises would come from.

Districts do not receive money from the state to pay for local and federal employees.

Clockwise from top left: Tamika Walker Kelley, Dr. Dana Ayers, Dr. Catherine Truitt, Dr. Bill Nolte.

“The negative part of the budget is, we anticipate that in order to pay our local and federal people the same amount as our state people, we will have to cut a number of the local lines that are not salary,” he said.

While Nolte said he is very happy for all of the employees to be getting raises, he is concerned that spending that money on employees will mean less money for things like school supplies and materials.

“School and district staff worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic and their efforts have been nothing short of remarkable. I’m pleased to see salary increases for teachers, school support staff, and principals in addition to the bonus options for educators and the newly-established Supplementary Fund for low-wealth districts, enabling them to increase teacher pay and retain staff,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt.

“Additional funding in this budget allows us to progress in hiring more school psychologists, maintain statewide literacy training efforts and address the workforce demands of today and the future with a new computer science division at the department.”

HOLD HARMLESS CLAUSE The new budget includes a hold harmless clause, a measure enacted for schools last year, even when there was no state budget.

This stipulation was put into place due to an across-the-board enrollment drop in public schools during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

For at least the next two fiscal years, the state will fund all public schools according to their pre-pandemic enrollment levels, instead of at lower levels according to actual enrollment numbers.

This will be helpful for districts across the state who, like Haywood County Schools, have seen significant enrollment drops.

According to Nolte, Haywood County Schools has lost at least 400 students throughout the pandemic years. Nolte also noted the difficulty schools have had in retaining teachers during the pandemic years.

“We are thankful. At some point in time, the hold harmless clause will have to stop. It [Coronavirus Pandemic] will stabilize or diminish and more people will come back across the nation, or they won’t,” said Nolte.

“As a taxpayer, I understand that it’s good to give waivers and consideration, take extraordinary steps to keep people’s nose above water during a pandemic. We’re very thankful.”

In Jackson County, Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers says that Jackson County Public Schools has not seen a significant drop in enrollment, losing only about 100 students.

However, Ayers noted that for districts around the state, pre-pandemic enrollment funding levels will be helpful.

VOUCHER EXPANSION The budget expands the availability of who is able to receive taxpayer funding to attend private schools and increases the amount of money they can receive. The state currently provides up to $4,200 per student for middle- and lower-income families who use Opportunity Scholarships to attend private schools. The budget changes the voucher to 90% of the total amount the state spends each year per public school student. The estimated new annual voucher amount is $5,850.

In addition, the budget raises the income eligibility to include families making up to 175% of the amount that qualifies someone for the free-or-reduced-priced lunch program — $85,794 for a family of four. The previous eligibility cap was 150%.

There is also an additional $15 million allocated each year to the voucher program.

For FY 2023-24 this will equal $120.5 million for the program. Opponents to the program say it is unconstitutional because it provides public funding to schools that discriminate against students based on religion.

“Obviously, I would want public money to go for public schools,” said Ayers. “But I do understand that different families choose different things for different reasons. And so I respect that for people. As a parent myself

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The Leandro case began in 1994 when families in five low-wealth school districts in North Carolina Counties — Hoke, Halifax, Robeson, Vance and Cumberland — sued the state. They argued that their children were not receiving the same level of education as those of higher-income counties.

In 1997, the State Supreme Court sided with the families and ruled that the North Carolina Constitution guarantees every child in the state “an opportunity to receive a sound basic education,” and that the state was not meeting that standard. In 2004, the court specified that the state was not providing adequate education to poor children.

In June, a North Carolina Judge approved a seven-year plan to address the issue, to which the State Board of Education, the plaintiffs and the Cooper administration agreed. The $5.6 billion plan includes a 5% pay raise for teachers, more funding for lowwealth school districts and expanding the state’s pre-K program. The new state budget for North Carolina falls somewhere between $700 and $900 million short of the approved plan.

“There are some wins in this budget, which include an increased minimum wage for our support staff and a hold harmless clause that will help provide stability for local school district budgets during this turbulent period. But considering what could have been done, the bare minimum is not enough. And so yes, we are disappointed in this outcome,” said NCAE President Tamika Walker Kelly. “There has been some progress made for public schools, but we must keep our eyes forward on the needs that remain.

We will continue to do our advocacy work together for North Carolina students and educators because every child in this state, regardless of their race, background or zip code, deserve a high-quality public education that gives them the chance to pursue their dream.”

According to data from the Department of Public Instruction from FY 2018-19, Swain County is the only low-wealth district in The Smoky Mountain News’s four county coverage area.

More detailed budget information for individual districts will be available in the coming weeks.

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too, I understand that, but I have to always continue thinking about advocating for public schools and for the funding we need to make sure that we are taking care of our students and allowing for them to have all the opportunities that we can give them with the funding that we have.”

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State budget includes $850K for Swain

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS EDITOR he North Carolina General Assembly passed an official budget last week that includes $850,000 for critical infrastructure projects in Swain County.

County Manager Kevin King recently told the board of commissioners that Rep. Mike Clampitt (RBryson City) helped advocate for the funding the county and Town of Bryson City will receive in the coming year.

King said the budget includes $50,000 to go Rep. Mike Clampitt toward improvements at Alarka Community Center; $250,000 for improvements to the county fairgrounds and $100,000 to replace the HVAC system at the county recreation center.

The town will be receiving $200,000 for new downtown street lighting and sidewalks; $200,000 toward the Island Park project and $12,000 for an ATV needed for the Island Park project. Island Park — a small island accessible by a pedestrian bridge along the Tuckasegee River in town — has been closed since 2019 when

Smoky Mountain News

November 24-30, 2021

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some flooding events covered the island and caused a lot of debris to pile up.

Erosion has been a major issue for the park and without intervention from the town, the community asset could eventually wash away.

The funding from the state will help the town install better lighting on the island for patrolling and public safety in addition to shoring up the shorelines to prevent further erosion and creating more river access.

“Thanks to strong conservative leadership and legislation in North Carolina over the past decade, there has been a large increase in revenue due to many businesses moving into North Carolina,” Clampitt said. “This budget reflects the positive impact conservative leadership has had in this state and the importance of not spending more than we bring in. North Carolinians all over the state will reap the benefits of this budget.”

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS FOR JACKSON COUNTY • $25 million for Center for the Advancement of Teaching in Cullowhee • $3 million for Sylva playground • $1 million for Southwestern Commission.

• $500,000 for Southwestern Community College Fire Rescue training • $250,000 for Sylva public restrooms

Larry E. Bryson, former Chief Deputy Haywood County Sheriff's Office, announces that

I INTEND TO BE A DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR THE OFFICE OF SHERIFF IN HAYWOOD COUNTY IN THE UPCOMING 2022 ELECTION. My career began in 1976 and I have worked for Sheriffs Jack Arrington, Tom Alexander and Bob Suttles.

During my 35 years of law enforcement experience in Haywood County, I have held the following positions:

• Detention Officer • Deputy Sheriff • Detective • Drug Agent • Chief of Detectives • Chief Deputy • Acting Sheriff I look forward to serving the people of Haywood County again.

Larry E. Bryson

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Paid for by Committee to Elect Bryson Sheriff 2022

Corbin, Pless secure $15 million for Haywood projects STAFF REPORTS en. Kevin Corbin (R-Franklin) and Rep. Mark Pless (R-Haywood) secured critical improvements for Haywood County in the compromise state budget approved by the state Senate on Nov. 17 and the state House on Nov. 18.

“I am very happy with the passage of this budget. We were able to get more in this budget than has ever been included for Western North Carolina,” Corbin said.

Senate Leader Phil Berger (RRockingham) said, “Sen. Corbin was instrumental in getting critical infrastructure and other projects approved for his district.”

The state budget sets in motion a 10-year, $16.1 billion cash infrastructure and capital plan. It also includes a sweeping tax cut that reduces the personal income tax rate to 3.99% over six years and increases the zero-tax bracket to $25,500 for married filers.

It increases the child tax deduction by $500 per Sen. Kevin Corbin child and eliminates the state income tax on military pensions.

“This budget addresses so many needs in our community that I could not mention all of them. Two items in this budget are close to my heart. The first is the $15 million pilot to proRep. Mark Pless vide a supplemental cancer policy for eligible Firefighters diagnosed with cancer,” Pless said. “We found a way to take care of these heroes a little better. $460,000 for an Innovative Court pilot is another solution that will help provide a Judge and Assistant District Attorney to help with accountability and find ways to help address drug abuse charges in our community.”

Speaker Tim Moore (R-Cleveland) stated “The substantial funding for the 118th District in the budget was a result of Rep. Pless’s strong advocacy for his district.”

The state budget includes $100 million in recurring funds for a new state-funded teacher salary supplement for lower-wealth counties to help them recruit and retain highquality teachers. I am happy to announce that under the formula we constructed, all counties in this district are getting very significant and permanent pay supplements for our teachers. In Haywood County the recurring annual supplement is $971 per teacher.

On top of this there are 5% raises for teachers, $2,800 bonuses using federal funds for most teachers, and step increases.

In addition to supporting the sweeping tax cut and infrastructure plan, Corbin and Pless successfully advocated for a $1.5 million grant to Bethel Middle School for repairs

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State budget wins for rural communities • Broadband: $15 million allocated for 25 rural community colleges, and about $1 billion in federal funding to expand broadband availability, and establish the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) grants program, as well as funding of broadband mapping, a digital literacy campaign, and more.

• Health care: $4 million to incentivize providers to practice in rural regions through the Rural Health Loan Assistance program; $5 million for the federal Small Rural Hospital Improvement Program; and about $9 million for rural health infrastructure projects.

• Water/Wastewater: More than $1 billion in historic investments in water/wastewater grant programs thanks to federal American Rescue Plan Act funds; the largest investment in water systems since the 1998 Clean Water Bond.

• Small Business: $120.5 million in a second round of funding for the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) (an initiative first established by the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 and funded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury that has since been managed by the NC Rural Center); a $5 million Capacity Building grant program for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs); and $3 million in nonrecurring funding in 2021-2022 and $2 million recurring in each fiscal year for the One North Carolina Small Business Program.

• Housing: $170 million for the Workforce Housing Loan Program, which assists with “gap financing” of the federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit.

and renovation to the sports field, $200,000 grant to Haywood County Event Center for lighting and parking lot improvements, a $1.9 million grant for a new pedestrian walkway, $100,000 grant to the Town of Canton for Sorrell Street Park renovations, $1.2 million to the Town of Clyde for water and sewer repair and mitigation, over $9 million for the Town of Canton for water and sewer repair and mitigation, $1.5 million providing funds for dredging Lake Junaluska, $35,000 to Mountain Projects, Inc., and $143,776 for a local health department grant.

Total allocation for Haywood County $15,790,817.

WAYNESVILLE COUNTRY CLUB

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November 24-30, 2021 Smoky Mountain News

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Woodhouse makes her NC-14 run official

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Michele Woodhouse announces her entry into the NC-14 race on Thursday, Nov. 18, in Hendersonville. Cory Vaillancourt photo

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Mark Tice, pastor at East Fork Baptist Church in Cruso, introduced Woodhouse at her launch event, saying he met her immediately after the flooding that decimated parts of Haywood County last August.

“Since then, she’s continued to follow up with needs and had personal interaction with others [in the community],” he said.

Henderson County GOP Chair Sharon Brooks, who like other county chairs is required to remain neutral during contested primaries, was nonetheless pleased with Woodhouse’s candidacy.

“I’m very confident that a Republican is going to take the district,” Brooks said, in reference to the new maps that made the district slightly more Democratic. “We’re very proud of Michele and we wish her all the best.”

Woodhouse becomes the first Republican to announce entry into the race after Cawthorn’s departure. Prior to his move, four other Republicans had already signed up to challenge Cawthorn, but one dropped out, leaving Wendy Nevarez, Bruce O’Connell and Rod Honeycutt.

Buncombe County Commissioner Jasmine BeachFerrara became the first Democrat to announce her candidacy back in March, but was quickly followed by Josh Remillard, Jay Carey, Eric Gash, Bo Hess, Katie Dean and Brooker Smith.

Remillard has since announced that he’ll follow Cawthorn to NC-13.

The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, but other candidates from both sides are expected to jump into the race over the next few weeks.

The candidate filing period for the 2022 elections begins on Dec. 6, and ends on Dec. 17.

Check in with The Smoky Mountain News for updates on candidate filings as they occur.

479 Dellwood Road Waynesville

November 24-30, 2021

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR lmost immediately after Rep. Madison Cawthorn announced on Nov. 11 that he’d seek an open seat in the new 13th Congressional District, speculation started to swirl around the intentions of NCGOP 14th District Chair Michele Woodhouse.

Woodhouse put the rumors to rest on Nov. 18, first with WWNC-AM morning show host Mark Starling, telling listeners she would join the Republican Primary Election and seek the seat left vacant by Cawthorn.

Hours later, she told a packed roomful of supporters in Hendersonville the same thing.

“Let’s be clear. The haters are going to come. They don’t like a strong, bold, decisive conservative woman,” Woodhouse said at the event. “So this woman that was raised in Detroit with hundreds of years of deep WNC roots is a combination the squad better fear, because this woman, with your help, will be the next member of Congress for the newly drawn 14th Congressional District.”

A native of Detroit, Woodhouse says her family has roots in Jackson and Macon counties. She’s been active in North Carolina Republican politics for the past several years.

Earlier this year, she was elected chair of Cawthorn’s district and has been among his staunchest of supporters.

In the wake of Cawthorn’s announcement, Woodhouse issued a statement saying she and party leaders in the new NC-14 would fight to keep the seat in conservative hands.

“On behalf of the NC-11 GOP leadership, we have the utmost respect for Congressman Cawthorn’s conservative service to NC-11. As newly drawn NC-14 District Chair, my top priority is the election of a conservative fighter to stop the Biden/Pelosi America last agenda!”

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Corbin will run for re-election to Senate, not NC-14

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR aying that he feels he can “offer more to the citizens of Western North Carolina as a senator than as a freshman congressman,” Franklin Republican Kevin Corbin has removed himself from the milieu of Republicans supposedly seeking the 14th Congressional District seat.

Corbin is in his third term in the North Carolina General Assembly and his first in the Senate, after years of service as a Macon County commissioner and school board member. During his two House elections, he won with vote totals above 72%.

Last year, Corbin took the Senate seat of retiring Franklin Republican Jim Davis with 66% of the vote in a district that comprises much of the 14th Congressional District.

“I thank all those involved for helping to craft this decision to seek re-election to the N.C. Senate and not make a run for Congress at this time,” Corbin said in a statement Nov. 22. “I’ll not say ‘never,’ but just not now.”

That decision came on a very short timeline, as Corbin said he was unaware of Rep. Madison Cawthorn’s post-redistricting plan to leave NC-14 and run in the newly drawn NC-13 until he heard about it in the media on Nov. 11. Filing for the 2022 elections begins Dec. 6 and ends Dec. 17.

Smoky Mountain News

November 24-30, 2021

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After consulting with family, friends and political analysts from Raleigh to Washington, Corbin felt a win was “very likely” but that his prospects for continued service in the Senate would be more valuable to his seven-county Senate district, if he’s reelected next year.

“My freshman term in the Senate has been extremely successful and I have worked extremely well with representatives — [Karl] Gillespie, [Mike] Clampitt and [Mark] Pless — that have House seats within my current seven-county district,” Corbin said.

“Through hard work and relationship-building, we have brought more capital improvements to this district than we even thought possible just a year ago.”

The current Republican Primary Election field stands at four, after NCGOP District 14 Chair Michele Woodhouse declared her intent to run on Nov. 18. Wendy Nevarez, Bruce O’Connell and Rod Honeycutt all launched their campaigns months before Cawthorn’s announcement.

A trio of senators, Deanna Ballard (RWatagua), Chuck Edwards (R-Henderson) and Ralph Hise (R-Mitchell) are still rumored to be interested. Ballard and Hise were drawn into the same Senate district, so a move by one of them would make sense.

Six Democrats are also vying for the seat, which based on 2020 vote totals for Donald Trump, is still a +8 for Republicans.

Sen. Kevin Corbin speaks at the Cruso Fire Department in the aftermath of deadly flooding this past summer. Cory Vaillancourt photo

“I thank all those involved for helping to craft this decision to seek re-election to the N.C. Senate and not make a run for Congress at this time.”

— Sen. Kevin Corbin

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Be ready for travel delay in WNC

Hamilton had served as register of deeds in Jackson County since 1998.

Sims is from Jackson County. She grew up in Webster and now lives in Cullowhee.

She began working in the Register of Deeds office part time in 1994 and had been the deputy register of deeds for 21 years at the time of her appointment to register of deeds. Sims does plan to run for election to the office in 2022.

Tennessee, alert drivers of the lane closure and suggest I-26 and I-81 as an alternative route.

Drivers have two good options: participate in the zipper merge approaching the work zone or travel on I-26 and I-81 through Kingsport, an option that adds about 45 minutes to a typical commute between Asheville and the I-40/I-81 interchange.

Drivers are not recommended to take any exit between Newport and Asheville to traverse mountain roads. While some of these roads might be suggested by travel apps, they may be gravel rather than paved and could be steep or include sharp curves. Trucks are prohibited from driving U.S. 25/70 through Madison and Cocke counties.

Congestion may also delay plans on other interstate sections in Western North Carolina. All lane closures will be removed on I-26, but work zone regulations apply to construction zones over the Green River in Henderson County, and between U.S. 64 in Henderson County and I-40 in Buncombe County.

“The number of drivers on I-26 and across western North Carolina will be higher than normal,” Franklin said.

“Travelers should plan ahead, travel early or late in the day, and prepare with the necessary food, water and medication.”

Over the last few years, Waynesville Rotary has conducted a Christmas blanket drive for Mountain Projects. Given the recent flooding disaster, Mountain Projects has a major need for blankets.

Service Clubs in Haywood County have come together to meet this challenge, creating a “Haywood County Service Clubs Blanket Drive.” Participating clubs include Altrusa, Waynesville Kiwanis, Canton Lions Club, Clyde Lions Club, Haywood County (Canton) Rotary Club, Waynesville (Sunrise) Rotary, and Rotary Club of Waynesville.

Blankets can be hand-delivered directly to the Mountain Projects Office, 2177 Asheville Road, Waynesville (the old public health building roughly across the street from Junaluska Elementary School).

A person can shop on the internet, purchase the blanket(s), and have them sent directly to Mountain Projects, 2177 Asheville Road, Waynesville, NC 27876. In the first line of the address, the contributing Club can be noted in parentheses — for example Mountain Projects (Blanket Drive, Service Club Name). If contributors are not Service Club members, they place (Blanket Drive) on the first line of the address.

Smoky Mountain News

Digital signs posted several counties away are warning of delays on Interstate 40 in the Pigeon River Gorge.

They will be in place this week and for the next six months as a contractor for the N.C. Department of Transportation replaces a bridge on I-40 over Harmon Den Road and Cold Springs Creek.

Delays are expected in both directions during holiday travel this week. NCDOT and the Tennessee Department of Transportation recommend that drivers plan ahead, prepare for delays and consider an alternate route through Kingsport, Tenn. Drivers should visit www.DriveNC.gov for real-time traffic information.

“I expect heavy delays in the gorge around the project area, and in both directions,” said Chad Franklin, NCDOT Regional Intelligent Traffic Service Engineer. “Traffic is certainly heavier during the holidays, and this year delays could be extensive near the state line.”

Transportation officials are warning drivers of the delays well before the work zone begins. Digital signs as far east as Burke County, as far south as Henderson County, and as far west as Knox County,

ty commission. The committee followed the process prescribed in its state parties plan of organization, section 12.08 2.01 to 2.02 and selecting the person to recommend on his behalf. I’m pleased to recommend Ms. Shaundra Sims as our choice to complete the term of Joe Hamilton. She was chosen by acclamation,” said Travis Cody Lewis, Chair of the Jackson County Democratic Party in a letter to the board.

Blanket Drive underway

November 24-30, 2021

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER handra Sims will serve as the new register of deeds for Jackson County after being sworn in Thursday, Nov. 18. Her appointment was approved unanimously by Jackson County Commissioners.

“Thank you guys, it’s an honor and a privilege to be in this position and I just want to continue serving the citizens of Jackson County and doing what we’ve been doing,” said Sims, addressing the small crowd in attendance as she was sworn in.

Sims previously served in the position of Deputy Register of Deeds for Jackson County and worked alongside outgoing Register of Deeds Joe Hamilton.

Hamilton, a Democrat, retired from the post in October, after which it fell to the Democratic Party of Jackson County to select a candidate whose appointment would be ratified by Jackson County Commissioners. According to North Carolina statute, when a vacancy is created in the position of register of deeds, the party of the outgoing register of deeds is responsible for selecting a candidate to fill the vacancy.

“The Jackson County Democratic Executive Committee met on Nov. 16, 2021, to consider a nomination to present the coun-

North Carolina created Operation Medicine Drop to help people safely dispose of medications and prescription drugs. A series of locations across the state have designated drop boxes for old and unused medications.

The drop boxes can be accessed anonymously 24-hour a day. For those unable to take their medications to a drop box, an alternative method is to place the medication in a baggie with an inedible but biodegradable substance -— such as coffee grounds, cat litter or dirt — and to throw the baggie in the household garbage.

Locations in Haywood County: • Canton Police Department – 58 Park St. • Clyde Police Department – 8437 Carolina Blvd.

• Waynesville Police Department – 9 S. Main St. (behind the station on Church Street) Opioids and antibiotics, along with chemicals like detergent, synthetic hormones, sunscreen and insect repellent, are called pharmaceutical and personal care products (or PPCP’s for short). When they leak into water systems by way of flushing and dumping, they contaminate the water and damage the wildlife within. These chemicals can cause growth defects in frogs, fishes and other species. The effects of these chemicals on humans are still being studied, but they may be linked to tumors, cancer and developmental growth defects.

For more information, visit ncosfm.gov/community-riskreduction/operation-medicine-drop.

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New Register of Deeds in Jackson County

Operation Medicine Drop

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Smoky Mountain News November 24-30, 2021

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Community Almanac

Smoky Mountain News

Knights of Columbus feed first responders Members of Franklin’s Knights of Columbus recently honored local police, firefighters and Emergency Medical Services with a free lunch.

The event is dubbed “Back the Red, White and Blue BBQ” to correspond with the colors associated with each of the first responder organizations often seen on bumper stickers and flags: red for firefighters, white for EMS and blue for police officers.

The members of local Knights council 8363, and other parishioners of the St. Francis of Assisi Church cooked hamburgers and hot dogs for first responders.

Founded in 1882, the Knights of Columbus is an international Catholic, family fraternity dedicated to charity, faith, unity and patriotism with more than 1.9 million members. For more information, visit kofc.org.

Zonta Club donates to Special Liberty Project The Zonta Club of the Franklin Area presented $10,000 to the Special Liberty Project to help fund its monthly retreats for the military widows.

This funding was made possible by Zonta’s first “Taste of Tuscany” event, held in collaboration with Slanted Window Wines on Sept. 11, and by the many sponsors, donors and attendees who made the event a success.

The Special Liberty Project is a national nonprofit organization that serves veterans, spouses, and their families with outdoor-centered programs designed to help veterans come to terms with civilian life and to help families heal from the loss of veterans through combat and suicide.

The Zonta Club is part of an international organization dedicated to the support of women through advocacy, education and empowerment.

Dogwood Invests in new health care professionals Dogwood Health Trust recently awarded more than $1 million over three years to the Center for Native Health to further strengthen and expand The Medical Careers and Technology Pipeline for Indigenous and rural Appalachian students.

Started in 2010, MedCaT is an academic-community partnership between Wake Forest School of Medicine, Western Carolina University, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Mountain Area Health Education Center and the Center for Native Health.

The MedCaT program is designed to create pathways and address barriers for students — specifically Indigenous and rural Appalachian students — by integrating cultural education into the traditional health and biomedical science curriculum and teaching paradigm.

With the grant from Dogwood, program leaders

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Center, Restoration House in Bryson City, Swain County Family Resource Center, the Community Kitchen in Canton and Vecinos Farmworker Health Program also received wellness grants.

Support KARE’s Festival of Trees This year, KARE — Kids Advocacy Resource Effort — celebrates its 30th year of serving children and families in Haywood County by seeking to end child abuse through advocacy, education and support.

Revenue from KARE’s annual Festival of Trees helps support that effort. The event will be held virtually, and dozens of packages for KARE’s online auction are already online. Bid on specially decorated trees, or Airbnb stays, fishing trips and more. Visit kare2021.ggo.bid to learn more.

Deadline for bids is 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 30.

Laura Herndon joins CFWNC now have the resources for data collection tools to track the long-term progress of students and help ensure their success in a health care-related field.

Dogwood’s grant also will fund a weeklong immersive experience at WCU in addition to the week at Wake Forest, and more students will be served during the school year through WCU’s Learning Labs. Additionally, because of Dogwood’s investment, a new partner specializing in cancer research has signed on, creating opportunities for expanded partnerships with regional medical centers, and the ability to bring in more guest speakers and mentors in the field giving students access to Native role models.

Students who are interested in applying for a future cohort can visit centerfornativehealth.org/research or email centerfornativehealthinfo@gmail.com.

Haywood foundation community grants The board of advisors of the Haywood County Community Foundation recently announced $4,150 in local grant awards from its community grantmaking fund.

The board granted $1,650 to the Fines Creek Community Association for the Fines Creek Community Association MANNA pantry refrigerator replacements; $1,400 to Clothes to Kids of Haywood County, Inc. for Starting a New Chapter; $600 to KARE, Inc. for child medical evaluations in Haywood and $500 to HIGHTS for Healthy Foods for Compass Program.

For further information, visit nccommunityfoundation.org.

Waynesville Altrusa supports students Altrusa International of Waynesville has decid-

ed to retire its popular annual fundraiser — Soup & Cornbread Day — but still needs the community’s support to raise funds for student scholarships.

Altrusa has established an endowment fund with the Haywood County Schools Foundation that will allow it to grant a minimum number of scholarships in the coming years but the club wants to do more than the minimum.

Each year Altrusa receives more than 100 applications from graduating seniors requesting financial assistance. With donations from both individuals and businesses, the club can continue to assist deserving students.

To support this cause, send a donation to Waynesville Altrusa, P.O. Box 947, Waynesville, 28786; or to Haywood County Schools Foundation, 1230 N. Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 (include notation on check for “Altrusa”).

IMPACT distributes nonprofit funds Now in its third year of regional grant funding, 90 local nonprofits from across Western North Carolina are WNC Bridge Foundation’s 2021 IMPACT Grant recipients, with awards totaling $3,900,000.

Home repair for the elderly, access to dental care, and academic tutoring for youth are examples of how grant funding will impact communities across Western North Carolina.

Providing free legal assistance to seniors through their Elder Law Program will be the focus of Pisgah Legal Services’ 2021 IMPACT Grant.

Haywood County Meals on Wheels and Mountain Projects also received grant funding for elder care projects.

The Giving Spoon in Swain County currently provides an average of 700 meals per week to those in need. An IMPACT Grant will support the capacity of this organization. Haywood Pathways

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina recently announced that Laura Herndon, an attorney and skilled advancement officer, has joined the staff as Vice President of Development.

Since 2013, Herndon has worked for UNC Asheville in a variety of roles, most recently serving as Associate Vice Chancellor, External and University Relations, a leadership position with responsibility for planned giving, alumni and constituent engagement and donor relations.

Herndon’s deep connections within the community, understanding of the region, extensive work with donors and legal background make her ideally suited to lead CFWNC’s development efforts.

Herndon is a graduate of Wake Forest University and Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. She is an active community member having volunteered with the Junior League of Asheville, Children’s Welfare League, Leadership Asheville, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and others.

Randy Hughes named Grand Marshall The Franklin Chamber of Commerce announced that Randy Hughes will serve as this year’s Grand Marshall during the Christmas parade.

Hughes served as the Toys for Tots Coordinator for the past 15 years, along with his wife, Irene, serving as many as 15 counties at one time. He currently serves as the coordinator for Macon, Jackson, Swain and Rabun counties. This will be Hughes’ final year to serve as coordinator.

“I got hooked the very first year I volunteered when I saw the face of a little girl receiving a baby doll. That is all it took. Since 2012, we have distributed 91,374 toys to 16,584 children. Through so many generous donations, we have been able to purchase $205,638 worth of toys over the past nine years,” he said.

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Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

We can all learn by listening to each other Letter to the Editor: I enjoyed reading Dr. Norman Hoffman’s opinion piece in the Friday, November 12, issue. I appreciate his concerns about the teaching of history in our public schools, his experiences as a public school student, and his reference to Critical Race Theory (CRT). I am prompted to comment on three things he wrote about.

First, CRT. CRT may be very sophisticated scholarship not taught at the high school level, but it is taught in universities that train teachers, and those teachers teach our kids.

Furthermore, CRT affects the rest of us, as it has influenced the writings of Ibram X. Kendi and Robin DeAngelo, among others. Dr. Hoffman may disagree with me, but I believe there is good evidence that in many public schools across America, as a result of thinkers like Kendi and DeAngelo, our children are being taught that whiteness is bad, that it always equals unearned privilege, that white children should be ashamed of their whiteness and that they should make up for the crimes of their ancestors. The end result of such indoctri-

Cawthorn in line for Pinocchio award To the Editor: I recently received an email from Rep. Madison Cawthorn, R-Hendersonville. If only there was a Pinocchio award, so I could see our congressman’s nose growing longer and longer.

His exact words as he called for the resignation of Dr. Anthony Fauci: “I took to the House floor a couple of weeks ago to reveal the heinous mutilating techniques that Dr. Fauci has been using on puppies in Africa using your tax dollars.”

Yes, there is research going on worldwide in the battle against Filiariasis. This horrible disease affects over 120 million people worldwide. Mr. Cawthorn didn’t mention that.

So, Dr. Fauci hopped on a plane and flew to Africa with his scalpels and mutilated little puppies.

Actually, the research funded by Dr. Fauci’s federal agency is being done at the University of Georgia under very strict humanitarian rules. His agency is not funding studies in Tunisia with your tax dollars.

nation of our children is to divide us into tribes, each with grievances towards the other tribe; i.e., tribalism. Read about what happened in Bosnia or Rwanda in the 1990s to see where tribalism leads.

Second, the Tulsa Race Massacre. Absolutely shameful, despicable. But I am surprised, Dr. Hoffman, that a man with a doctorate just learned about it in the last year or so. You must not be from Oklahoma. Had you been an Oklahoman, you would be pleased to know that your state formed a commission in 1996 (25 years ago) to study the massacre, and its 2001 report led to reparations for survivors, economic investment in the Black neighborhood that was destroyed, and creation of a park in memory of the victims. Furthermore, Oklahoma has required the teaching of the massacre in its public schools since 2002 (19 years ago).

Third, and finally, I want to tell of my own public school history-learning experience that differs from Dr. Hoffman’s.

I do not know how old Dr. Hoffman is, or where he grew up, but I’m 64 years old, and I grew up in Dalton, Georgia. In

LETTERS Here’s a thorough analysis of Cawthorn’s ridiculous and dishonest claims: www.snopes.com/fact-check/fauci-vaccineexperiment-beagles.

This is one of the top ridiculous and heinous lies (to use Cawthorn’s term) I’ve heard from any member of the U.S. Congress lately. Number one was a Cawthorn colleague from Texas who declared women who are raped can’t get pregnant (my emphasis) because their bodies shut down when they are raped.

Maybe we do need a Pinocchio award.

Keep it up, Mr. Cawthorn. You are in second place but with a little more work ….

Steve Wall Waynesville

Thankful for infrastructure bill To the Editor: At long last after years of inaction, there will be greatly needed improvements to the infrastructure of the United States.

We can look forward to seeing road improvements, a strengthening of the electrical grid, wider access and more stable broadband, airport upgrades, and other enhancements. Significantly, good-paying jobs will open as Americans undertake the work required to realize these needed renovations.

Residents will experience specific benefits in Cherokee, Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain, McDowell and several other

middle school, I went on a field trip to New Echota, Georgia, the capital of the Cherokee Nation prior to the Removal by the man on the $20 bill. This would have been in the late 1960s or early 1970s. I’ll never forget that day in New Echota: the courtroom, the legislature building, and the shop where the Cherokee Phoenix, was printed. I remember my teachers gave me a very sobering account of what happened in 1838. A good, noble, civilized people had their lands stolen by greedy white people — that is what I was taught. I don’t recall any sugar-coating — and this at a public school in the heart of Dixie only a few years after integration.

Yes, history is complicated. And someone is going to tell it and may tell it accurately, or inaccurately, or to deceive, or for filthy lucre, or self-aggrandizement, or foolishly, or wisely. May we try to listen to one another, and learn from one another, realizing that we are flawed human beings.

Steven Snowden Crider Waynesville

counties in the North Carolina Mountain region. Although long overdue, it is something for which we can all be grateful since these improvements will benefit us all.

It is disheartening that the congressman elected to represent our region voted against wider access to high-speed internet; against upgrading the electrical grid; against programs to help the region reduce transportation fatalities and crashes (think Interstate 26 in Buncombe and Henderson counties and malfunction junction in Asheville); against funding for clean water and low-emission school buses; against modernizing our airport.

Congressman Madison Cawthon is a public servant who was elected to represent the region and residents across several counties here in North Carolina. Refusing to endorse infrastructure changes is equivalent to a refusal to represent the people and the communities of Western North Carolina.

Nevertheless, other public servants recognized the need for and value of these initiatives, and we will finally see enhancements, repairs, and good-paying jobs.

In the spirit of the season, this community is blessed and thankful. Happy Thanksgiving.

Teri Domagalski Waynesville

Let’s talk honestly about social programs To the Editor: Communism, socialism and Democrats are all the same, always bad, all the time.

Democratic-leaning relatives, friends, and associates who you have known for years are now considered pedophiles or worse, socialist.

The Republican propaganda machine is in warp drive. I lived through the “Red Scare of the 1950s and, like today, unfounded fears

and pure lies are at the heart of this assault on the truth.

As a governing principal, pure communism and pure capitalism have never succeeded in a modern state. Only Cuba and Venezuela — two failed states — can be called Communist. Russia, China, and many other modern states are really just dictatorships.

They are run for the benefit of one person, like Putin in Russia or one minority group, like the communist elite in China. Even these countries have a strong dose of capitalism to support the governing class, because without it no one has any incentive to produce or create wealth necessary to support the state.

Today, most modern governments, like the United States, that are not run by a dictator, are a combination of capitalism, the pursuit of individual wealth and socialism (the use of social programs). Capitalism is needed to provide the incentive to produce wealth and create an economy to support the state. Social programs are needed for the protection of children, elderly, minorities and those in need. These citizens would all be abandoned in pure capitalist society. Think Social Security, Medicare, public health programs and a hundred others we have come to depend on.

The last time the Republicans won the presidential popular vote was 2004. Since then, the Republican party has created this hateful “straw man” socialism to divert our attention from their failed policies. It is a common tactic when one party concludes it cannot succeed by arguing the merits of their position. Let’s have a rational discussion about the need for social programs and how to pay for them, in a capitalist state. Calling your opponent names and equating them with the devil is not what our founding fathers had in mind.

Louis Vitale Franklin

Trump remains a danger to the republic

Martin Dyckman

S

WE RECYCLE WASTE WOOD STUMPS • LIMBS • BRUSH

Ingles Nutrition Notes written by Ingles Dietitian Leah McGrath ADD SOME PROTEIN TO YOUR BREAKFAST While most people in the U.S. consume enough protein during the day, we often load it into our lunch and dinner meals instead of spreading it out throughout the whole day. Are you eating any sources of protein at breakfast or are you just consuming carbohydrates like bread/toast, hot or cold cereals, and fruit or fruit smoothies? Do your lunches and dinners have large servings of protein rich foods like meat, chicken, fish, tofu/soy, or eggs?

Downsizing (but not eliminating) the amount of protein you eat for lunch and dinner and relocating some of those servings and calories from protein to your breakfast meal can help make you more satisfied and control between meal cravings.

• One large egg = 6 grams of protein (78 calories) • 2 TBSP peanut butter = 8g protein(188 calories) • 3/4 c plain Greek yogurt =16g protein (170 calories) – variable depending on brand • 1 oz walnuts = 4g protein (185 calories) • 1 oz pecans = 3g protein (196 calories) • 1/2c tofu = 10g protein (94 calories) • 2 links breakfast sausage = 9g protein (150 calories) – variable depending on brand/maker

Leah McGrath, RDN, LDN

Smoky Mountain News

Republicans and seven of their senators fed the Big Lie by voting to reject Biden electors.

Ominously, Trump and his allies are trying to purge any Republican who opposes them even slightly. His attacks on the 13 Republican House members who voted for the infrastructure bill have generated death threats for some of them. He’s trying to oust Mitch McConnell as Senate Republican leader even though it was McConnell who twice saved him from impeachment convictions that would have — and should have — barred him from running for president again. House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy is targeted too, despite how he debases himself to Trump, because he’s somehow not servile enough.

With Trump, it’s absolute, unwavering worship or out you go. That is what dictators do. As Hitler consolidated his power over the Reichstag, opposition lawmakers went into hiding to avoid voting against him.

The American people have no natural immunity to someone like Trump because no previous demagogue ever rose so high.

Huey Long was assassinated before he could run for president. The Senate itself censured Joe McCarthy, who died of liver failure attributed to his alcoholism.

What makes Trump so much more dangerous is an internet that equates fact with fiction and promotes divisiveness for profit.

The most disconcerting aspect of the mob that invaded the Capitol on Jan. 6, amid the cries of “Hang Mike Pence,” is how ordinary most of those newly minted criminals were. Apart from the Proud Boys and other organized thugs who took part, the great majority appear to have been people who would never have committed a violent offense under other circumstances.

Trump had beguiled them with his lies and rhetoric, especially his promise to go with them to the Capitol before he watched in safety from the White House.

The Washington Post made that point this month in three superb articles detailing the days leading to the insurrection, the event itself, and in the aftermath the cowardice of the Republican politicians who, with a few notable exceptions, still refuse to hold Trump accountable. Republican control of the House after the 2022 elections would put an end to the investigation.

In the second of those articles, the Post noted the moment when House Republicans were lining up in their cloakroom to sign official objections to Joe Biden’s electoral votes. Only one signature would suffice to halt the count and require debate, but two-thirds of them felt compelled to demonstrate their loyalty to Trump.

“The things we do for the orange Jesus,” one of them was heard to mutter.

(Martin Dyckman is retired journalist who lives in Western North Carolina. dyckmanm@bellsouth.net)

November 24-30, 2021

ome people may still wonder how the Germany of a century ago could have spawned Adolf Hitler, World War II and the Holocaust. It was, after all, one of the best-educated and highly cultured nations in Europe, if not the world.

How that happened should be clear now to every American in the aftermath of our own insurrection on January 6.

It showed how people everywhere, even in an established democracy such as ours, are vulnerable to amoral Guest Columnist demagogues who cynically exploit fears, resentments and prejudices, as Hitler did and Donald Trump does.

Although Trump failed to overthrow our Constitution that day, he’s still working at it — ceaselessly lying that the election was stolen, keeping his rank-and-file in thrall, demanding utter loyalty from elected Republicans, trying to purge those few who stand up to him, and bagging lots of money.

As people died and police officers were brutalized in the riot, Trump relished in the scenes of violence he was watching on television, waiting 187 minutes — more than three hours — before responding to pleas to call off the mob. He should have been indicted for sedition by now.

It bears remembering that Hitler’s overthrow of the young Weimar Republic didn’t occur overnight. What history recalls as the Beer Hall Putsch of November 1923 seemed like a flop at the time, but the government’s failure to punish it as severely as it deserved enabled Hitler to seize power with less than majority votes only nine years later.

Similarly, Trump and his allies are playing a long game of suppressing future votes and setting themselves up to overturn elections that they lose.

The historical pattern repeats in many respects: Ordinary citizens turned into a frothing mob by a ceaseless barrage of lies.

Private, fascist-style militias like the Proud Boys, whom Trump encouraged by telling them to “stand down and stand by.”

Lawmakers cowed into subservience and silence. The citizenry polarized by increasingly vicious public and private debates.

The Washington Post’s fact-checkers tallied 30,573 untruths from Trump before they stopped counting in January. That included 503 on just the day before the election.

Germany’s fledging democratic institutions crumbled under similar pressure.

Ours, much older, held in the crucial hours when majorities in Congress refused to be cowed by Trump’s lies and his mob into rejecting Joe Biden’s fairly earned and honestly counted electoral votes. Even after the violence, though, two-thirds of the House

Ingles Market Corporate Dietitian

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

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A&E

Smoky Mountain News

Want to go?

Songs From The Road Band will once again host its annual “Asheville Winter Grass” showcase at One World Brewing in West Asheville.

Aside from two performances from SFTRB, special guests will include legendary singer-songwriter Jim Lauderdale from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, and Americana/honkytonk sensation Andy Buckner from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5.

Tickets are $20 per person. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to oneworldbrewing.com and click on the “Events” tab. To learn about the SFTRB, visit songsfromtheroadband.com. with the time you’ve put towards that activity and passion.

SMN: Whether it’s songwriting or fishing, you’re pursuing something. And then, all of a sudden, something hits the line.

CH: Yep. And I love co-writing. I like working with other people, too. I think it’s a lot of fun and it’s creative. You’re making something out of nothing. And, if all goes well, you’ve created a song that’s going to go out into the world and hopefully find a home.

Whether it’s with Songs From The Road Band or if it goes somewhere else, it’s the act of creating. I enjoy doing it with other people and then having a song that people enjoy.

Songs From The Road Band. (photo: Tom Farr Photography)

You left your lonely

Charles Humphrey of Songs From The Road Band

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & E NTERTAINMENT E DITOR ithin this modern realm of bluegrass music, there’s a particular sonic revolution occurring — one where oncefringe elements of progressive styles and artistic experimentation have now become the center of the acoustic landscape.

When you speak of this omnipresent sea change, names like Billy Strings, Greensky Bluegrass and The Infamous Stringdusters immediately come to mind. So, too, does the whirlwind sound and attitude that is Songs From The Road Band.

The Western North Carolina quintet is this band of melodic pirates, roaring down the highways and backroads of Southern

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Appalachia in search of a stage to play, perhaps another kindred spirit to collaborate with in the sacred art of songwriting and creating something (beautiful and permanent) from nothing (thin air and momentary inspiration).

At the core of SFTRB is acclaimed songwriter/bassist Charles Humphrey III. A Grammy-winner and former co-founder of the Steep Canyon Rangers, Humphrey launched SFTRB in 2006.

What started out as a side-project for Humphrey has now become his main gig and intense focus with SFTRB. And, over the years, he’s applied his immense talent (musically and lyrically) into this acoustic bastion of scope and purpose — one currently overtaking a live music scene in need of a kick in the ass.

Smoky Mountain News: Aside from being a professional musician, you also guide fly-fishing excursions around this area. What do you see as some of the similarities between those two careers?

Charles Humphrey: I love teaching. I love meeting new people, being outdoors and on the water. With music and fly-fishing, you’re definitely putting on a show.

When you’re out there [onstage or in the river], you’ve got them right there with you.

You’re offering a service. You’re entertaining people. You’re making them happy. They’re there to have fun — spreading joy through music, spreading joy through fishing.

Just like live music, with fishing you’re out there thinking about nothing except what you’re doing right at the moment. You’re not worried about bills or anything else going in your life — it’s an escape.

SMN: And I would surmise that there’s a lot to be said about the patience needed to catch a fish and the patience needed to write a song.

CH: Right. You’re dedicating that time.

You’re spending that time. You’re intentional

SMN: And one of the things I’ve always admired about Songs From The Road Band is how you’re very independent — in how you conduct yourself, in how you do business.

CH: Well, a lot of that comes from necessity, where if you want something done right, you’re got to do it yourself. [With my background], it’s rewarding because I’ve seen everything [in this industry].

I know what’s out there and that you can’t take for granted your opportunities to create music with a professional band. I can kind of try and help to open doors for the others and run the business as much as I can. So, it’s nice to have that [previous] experience to draw upon.

But, with that, we’re definitely growing our team and value our team members, whether it’s a new booking agent or a publicist. By having those key people in our lives, it allows the band to focus on the creative side of things more.

SMN: That’s a big part of the ethos of the band, having this family dynamic.

CH: Yeah. Most of us have been longtime friends. We’re very lucky with the chemistry of this band. When we get together, we’re excited to see other, which means we’re going to put on the best show possible.

We don’t take this for granted. It’s always been about making it fun for everybody. And when we’re having fun, that’s going to transfer over into the audience and into the music.

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

Ah, but the pusher ruin your body, lord, he’ll leave your mind to scream

I

HOT PICKS The annual Balsam Range “Art of Music Festival” will take place Dec. 2-4 at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center.

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The “Stecoah Arts & Crafts Drive About Tour” will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 26-27 at featured studios in Bryson City, Stecoah and Robbinsville.

The annual “Hard Candy Christmas” arts and crafts show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 26-27 inside the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University.

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With the theme of “A Season for Giving,” the Franklin Chamber of Commerce has announced the annual Christmas Parade celebration will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, in downtown.

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Singer-songwriter Wyatt Espalin will hit the stage at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 27, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City.

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Smoky Mountain News

Anyhow, as a kid in those classrooms, I couldn’t sit still. I couldn’t concentrate or focus on what was happening in front of me or the lesson at hand. I wanted to be outside.

I wanted to run around in the nearby field.

And I wanted to not sit in an uncomfortable antique wooden desk all damn day.

So, the Catholic nuns felt there was “something wrong” with me. They informed my parents that I was rambunctious and needed to be corralled. It was suggested that they take me to a psychiatrist and get prescribed Ritalin to “solve the problem” (aka: me). Soon, I was diagnosed with ADHD. From age nine until about 15, I was put on Ritalin. Three times a day. Every single day. Early morning. Noon. Late afternoon. I went from a highly-inquisitive kid to a standstill zombie of sorts. In essence, I had my mojo taken from me. All creative urges and sense of self disappeared, replaced by a “go along to get along” vibe that pulsed

November 24-30, 2021

n a recent Netflix documentary, “Take Your Pills,” the film takes an in-depth look at the ongoing widespread use of prescription drugs such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, etc.

It’s not so much showing you something new to behold and analyze, rather it’s exposing the fact that “nothing’s the same, everything’s the same,” in terms of these types of y medications and its effect on our society, for good or ill.

These modern-day stimulants have been around for decades, and under different guises, too. There really isn’t much difference between the speed taken in the middle - part of the 20th century and what’s being f sold (legally or illegally) these days to aid in g studying, focus or performance.

- What’s changed is the branding and the e societal view of these things. What was initially used to enhance performance in stud dents, athletes and the military years ago f turned into a national crisis in the 1960s, d ultimately leading to stricter laws about who could access and use these highly-affective medications.

Thus, the numbers of pills being made and such dropped drastically through the 1970s and beyond, only to resurface in the modern era through different channels of , medical use and social acceptance. Hence, e the speed of yesteryear for adults morphed , into mind-numbing amounts of Ritalin pren scriptions for kids in the 1990s onward to the here and now. t Personally, I wrestled with my thoughts e and opinions while watching “Take Your f Pills.” I found myself glued to the screen, d with flashback after flashback coming into o my field of vision, remembering all those dusty images of my past, of being told r something was wrong with me, and that r these new “magic pills” would “make me a - better student.” e Back in the mid-1990s, I was a fourths grader attending an old Catholic elementary school on the Canadian border of Upstate New York. The real deal “suffering Catholics” kind of spot, where everything you do and (mostly) everything about you is e a sin in the eyes of God. Repent. f Redemption. Find salvation when all is said d and done at the end of your life and transin tion into the next realm — whatever and wherever that may be. s Yadda, yadda, yadda. To each their own d with religion and such. It just was never my r cup of tea, especially being a kid in a fire and brimstone kind of environment.

Ritalin.

(very early on), it has been tough to be surrounded by this ever-changing culture and societal view of mental disorders, etc.

Growing up, you hid your “issues.” You were embarrassed to take Ritalin, let alone be seen by your peers ducking into the nurse’s office to get your “crazy pills.” Now, folks openly share what they have, what they take, and so forth. And, to that point, these pills are now viewed as a normal enhancement for those who don’t need them but seek them out.

It’s odd to spend most of your life challenging those who say there’s something wrong with you, to constantly (whether consciously or subconsciously) defend yourself and aim to prove there isn’t anything wrong with you, only to now be in a world where being vulnerable to your, perhaps, “flaws” is the first step in truly being accepted, in a sense.

I digress. I guess, lately, I’ve been slowly deconstructing the old ways of protecting myself and also dealing with my thoughts and actions. Like you reading this, I’m also a work in progress, always will be (such is life, eh?). All I can do is what I’ve championed for years, which is the adage, “I will wake up today and try to be better than I was yesterday.” Truth.

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

(Garret K. Woodward is the arts and entertainment editor for The Smoky Mountain News.

He’s also the music editor for Smoky Mountain Living magazine and a contributing writer for Rolling Stone. You can reach him at garret@smokymountainnews.com.)

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

through my now medicated body.

There’s so much to say about this subject, especially from someone like myself who went through all of this back in the day. Way more than will fit in this one-page column, which is why I will most likely revisit this topic again down the road.

But, the cliff notes are as follows: By age 16, I purposely took myself off Ritalin, against my parents, doctor and coach’s sentiments. I wanted to prove I could focus and achieve on my own merit. At 16, I felt like my old self, full of curiosity and passion. I worked hard on learning how to focus (what worked, what didn’t work in doing so). I did well in high school academics and sports, leaving there near the top of my class.

From there, I ended up at a great university, where I found my true calling in writing and journalism. In a simple twist of fate, I had found a lifelong outlet that could hold my attention for hours at a time. Why? Because it was something I was sincerely interested in and wanted to do (still do, more now than ever before).

I graduated college with two degrees in four years, and with a 3.67 GPA — a middle finger up in the air to all who felt otherwise about me back then, especially that Catholic school nun (our principal) who said to my 11-year-old self, and I quote: “You’ll never amount to anything in your life.”

As an adult, I do see the value of these medications to folks who truly need it. And, I see the genuine use in pursuing therapy, too. But, for someone who was a kid and experienced both of those things intensely

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arts & entertainment

On the beat Graham, main guitarist/primary vocalist; Sam Brandt, who plays the autoharp; and multi-instrumentalist Dr. Pati Graham.

The audience can expect to hear a variety of instruments that are not usually played together, but they create a unique festive sound for the holidays. The listener can experience that old-time feeling when family members would just sit around, play, and sing songs during the holidays.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call the library at 828.488.3030.

Balsam Range Art of Music

Glory String Players.

Appalachian music at Marianna Balsam Range.

November 24-30, 2021

The annual Balsam Range “Art of Music Festival” will take place Dec. 2-4 at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center.

Alongside two performances by bluegrass icons Balsam Range, there will also be appearances onstage by Chloe Agnew (of Celtic Woman), John Driskell Hopkins (of Zac Brown Band), Blue Highway, Jeff Little Trio, The Cleverlys, Atlanta Pops Orchestra, and more.

Twice named International Bluegrass Music Association “Entertainer of the Year,” Balsam Range has built their reputation not only on stellar live performances, but on countless number one radio singles and albums.

For information on the “Art of Music,” to purchase tickets, a full schedule of events, performers, workshops and activities, go to balsamrangeartofmusicfestival.com.

A special holiday concert with the Glory String Players will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, at the Mariana Black Library in Bryson City.

The Glory String Players is a small Appalachian string ensemble that loves giving back to its community. And during the holidays, it seems like a perfect time to give back to it.

The group includes Jim Gribble, a seasoned Appalachian dulcimer player/vocalist; Sandy Perrigo and Shirley Waters, wellpolished dulcimer players; Kenneth

Mountain Layers welcomes Espalin Singer-songwriter Wyatt Espalin will hit the stage at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City.

Born and raised in Hiawassee, Georgia, Espalin has been entertaining audiences since he was eight years old. A blend of Americana, bluegrass and indie-roots music, he’s a beloved fixture on the Southern Appalachian live music circuit.

Free and open to the public. For more information, call 828.538.0115 or click on mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com. To learn more about Espalin, go to wyattespalinmusic.com.

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On the beat

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host Natti Love Joys (reggae/soul) Dec. 10. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host Shane Meade (singer-songwriter) Nov. 26 and Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) Nov. 27. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.538.0115 or mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

FOLK, SOUL ROLLS INTO WNC

• Nantahala Brewing (Sylva) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m.

828.641.9797 or nantahalabrewing.com.

Popular Tampa, Florida, singer-songwriter Shane Meade will perform at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City. He will also take the stage at 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Sylva. Both shows are free and open to the public. mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Oak Forest United Methodist Church will host the Brasstown Ringers (Appalachian/holiday) at 7 p.m. Dec. 3.

• Balsam Falls Brewing (Sylva) will host an open mic from 8 to 10 p.m. every Thursday.

Free and open to the public. 828.631.1987 or balsamfallsbrewing.com.

ALSO:

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Bob Zullo (guitar/vocals) Nov. 27 ($10 cover) and Kevin Williams (piano/vocals) Dec. 4 ($10 cover). All shows begin at 7 p.m.

Limited seating. Reservations required.

828.452.6000 or classicwineseller.com.

• First United Methodist Church (Franklin) will host the Brasstown Ringers (Appalachian/holiday) at 7 p.m. Dec. 10.

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.454.5664 or froglevelbrewing.com.

• Innovation Station (Dillsboro) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All events are free and begin at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. innovation-brewing.com.

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will host a “Jazzy Holiday Party” 5 p.m. Dec. 16. Free and open to the public. innovation-brewing.com.

• Currahee Brewing (Franklin) will host semiregular live music on the weekends.

828.634.0078 or curraheebrew.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Shane Meade (singer-songwriter) Nov. 27 and Natti Love Joys (reggae/soul) Dec. 11. All

Want to learn the dulcimer?

The Pic’ & Play Mountain Dulcimer Players has resumed in-person jam sessions at the St. John’s Episcopal Church basement fellowship hall in Sylva.

The group welcomes all beginners and experienced dulcimer players, including mountain (lap) dulcimer and hammered dulcimer players. Songs played include traditional mountain tunes, hymns, and more modern music. The group meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturday of every month in the basement of St. John’s.

Pic’ & Play has been playing together since 1995. The more experienced members welcome new players, help them navigate their instruments, and guide them through some of the basics of tuning, strumming, and playing.

For more information, call Kathy Jaqua at 828.349.3930 or Don Selzer at 828.293.0074.

• The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends.

828.526.8364 or theuglydogpub.com.

• Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host Tricia Ann Band Nov. 26, Mile High Band Nov. 27, Blackjack Country Dec. 2, Explore The Myth Dec. 3 and The UpBeats Dec. 4. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public.

828.538.2488.

• Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host semiregular live music on the weekends.

828.926.7440 or valley-tavern.com.

• Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public. rathskellerfranklin.com.

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host semi-regular live music on the week-

• Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.456.4750 or facebook.com/waternhole.bar.

• Whiteside Brewing (Cashiers) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends.

828.743.6000 or whitesidebrewing.com.

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Smoky Mountain News

• Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.369.4080 or coweeschool.org.

• The Ugly Dog Pub (Cashiers) will host semiregular live music on the weekends.

828.743.3000 or theuglydogpub.com.

November 24-30, 2021

• Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host karaoke at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, trivia at 7 p.m. on Thursdays and Sanctum Sully (rock/soul) Dec. 11. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.0350 or boojumbrewing.com.

• Elevated Mountain Distilling Company will host an Open Mic Night 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public.

828.734.1084 or elevatedmountain.com.

• Southern Porch (Canton) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends.

828.492.8009 or southern-porch.com.

arts & entertainment

ends. 828.482.9794 or satulahmountainbrewing.com.

shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

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Smoky Mountain News

November 24-30, 2021

arts & entertainment

On the street

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Dillsboro’s ‘Lights & Luminaries’ The annual “Lights & Luminaries” will return from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 3-4 and 10-11 in the streets of downtown Dillsboro Experience the magic as the entire town is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter and song. Over 2,500 luminaries light your way to shops and studios.

Each night, shops will stay open way into the night providing free refreshments, musicians and singers performing in individual shops. The sound of hooves will echo through the night with old-fashioned horse and buggy rides (tips much appreciated).

Children can share their wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Workshop in Dillsboro’s Town Hall.

With retail shops offering a variety of quality arts and crafts, unique gifts, clothing, gourmet foods and wine, and specialty Christmas items, the festival also provides a unique holiday shopping experience.

Entertainment the first weekend include Twelfth Fret (Americana) from 6 to 8 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 3, and singer-songwriter Anna Victoria from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4.

For the second weekend, award-winning dulcimer player Mathew Dickerson will perform Dec. 10-11.

Free parking and shuttle transportation for the event will be available at Monteith Park each night of the festival. Sing along with carolers. Take the children to see Santa Claus at Dillsboro’s Town Hall. Have some hot chocolate or hot cider. All the restaurants will be open late.

For more information, call the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce at

‘Tinsel Trail & Appalachian Christmas’ The 41st season of The Shelton House will continue with the “Tinsel Trail & Appalachian Christmas” celebration, which will be held Dec. 5 to Jan. 1 at the historic home in Waynesville.

Aside from Candlelight Christmas tours of The Shelton House decorated for the holidays, the opening of the “Tinsel Trail” will

800.962.1911 or click on mountainlovers.com. To learn more about new happenings, go to facebook.com/dillsboronc.

Christmas in Sylva Sylva Christmas Parade. (photo: Nick Breedlove)

‘A Night Before Christmas’ An annual holiday celebration, “A Night Before Christmas” will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, in downtown Waynesville.

Hundreds of Luminaries, live music, clogging, church choirs, Santa & Mrs. Claus, storytelling, holiday treats and beverages, and much more.

For a full list of participants and events, click on downtownwaynesville.com.

A Franklin Christmas With the theme of “A Season for Giving,” the Franklin Chamber of Commerce has announced the annual Christmas Parade celebration will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, in downtown.

The chamber will continue the extended route onto Highlands Road so that spectators can self-distance. No walkers will be allowed, and no items may be handed out, including candy, coupons, etc.

“These precautions are in place for the safety of our community,” said Franklin Chamber’s Executive Director Linda Harbuck.

Entries will line up along Church Street behind the courthouse. The route begins by pulling out on the top of Town Hill beside Town Hall and will proceed down Main Street, turning left at the Lazy Hiker Brewing Company onto Porter Street. Then turn left onto Palmer Street. The route will turn onto Highlands Road extending the route to enable social distancing and end at the Franklin Flea Market.

As noted above, due to safety concerns, candy will not be passed out this year. In addition, all horses must wear a manure bag/horse diaper.

For additional information, contact the Franklin Chamber of Commerce by calling 828.524.3161.

be Sunday, Dec. 5. The evening also includes a visit from Santa Claus from 5 to 7 p.m. Hot chocolate and treats will be offered, too.

Holiday tunes will be played from the front porch for folks gathering on the lawn.

Decorate your business, organization, church or family Christmas Tree for the “Tinsel Train” on the grounds of The Shelton House. How will this work? The Shelton House will purchase trees, which will then be sold for a sponsorship fee of $250.

The Shelton House will set up the trees

The Main Street Sylva Association (MSSA) will be hosting holiday festivities this year downtown.

Downtown Sylva will continue the holiday season celebration with “Small Business Saturday” on Nov. 27.

The Jackson County Arts market will be running from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the holidays. All of these events are great opportunities to buy local for the holiday season.

The official holiday festivities will kick off with the Tree Lighting at 6:30 Friday, Dec. 3, with special music from the kids of Wonderworks Learning and Arts Center.

Families can also take selfies with the Christmas Bear beside the tree.

The Sylva Christmas Parade will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. This year’s theme is “Downhome Christmas” and the Grand Marshals are “Frontline Healthcare Workers.” Anyone interested in participating can access the parade application and information at townofsylva.org.

Applications are due Tuesday, Nov. 30.

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Jackson County Parks & Recreation will host a Holiday Fireworks

with bases, provide basic lighting and a sign for each sponsor. Each organization can decorate its tree in whatever fashion they choose. Groups are also welcome to share a sponsorship and/or decorating the tree. The sponsorship is tax deductible.

For more information on a “Tinsel Trail” tree sponsorship, call 828.452.1551 or email dannehl@sheltonhouse.org.

The Shelton House is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday through Saturday for tours and/or visits to the Gift Shop. House Tours

Display at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17, which will be visible from downtown Sylva. Folks can arrive early to hear a live concert on the porch of the Jackson County Chamber and Visitor Center at 6:30 p.m.

All of these events are free and open to the public.

The Main Street Sylva Association is a nonprofit entity formed with the mission to spur economic development in the town of Sylva using the National Main Street Center’s Four Point Approach: Design, Organization, Promotion and Economic Vitality.

The organization spearheads some of Sylva’s longstanding events such as Greening Up the Mountains, Halloween Celebration, the Christmas Parade, and The Sylva Brew Hop. The MSSA also collaborates with the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County government, the TDA and other nonprofits in order to promote and enhance downtown Sylva.

For more information, go to mainstreetsylva.org or contact Main Street Economic Development Director Bernadette Peters at mainstreet@townofsylva.org or 828.586.2719.

are held on the hour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the Gift Shop open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Special events and tours are offered throughout the season. Group tours can be arranged year-round by calling 828.452.1551 or emailing info@sheltonhouse.org.

The Shelton House is always looking for volunteers to help with events, tours, the gift shop, archiving, computer work, and much more. If you’re interested in helping out, call 828.452.1551, email info@sheltonhouse.org or stop by during open hours.

arts & entertainment

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arts & entertainment

On the street • The Bryson City Christmas Parade will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, on Everett Street in downtown Bryson City. Floats, marching bands, fire trucks, Santa & Mrs. Claus, and much more. 828.488.3681 or greatsmokies.com.

• Waynesville Christmas Parade will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 6, on Main Street. Parade starts at First Presbyterian Church and proceeds down Main Street to Bogart’s Restaurant. downtownwaynesville.com.

• Sylva Christmas Parade will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, on Main Street. discoverjacksonnc.com.

• The popular “Polar Express” train ride is now running from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot in downtown Bryson City. For a complete listing of departure dates and times, call 800.872.4681 or click on gsmr.com.

November 24-30, 2021

• “Christmas Cookie Walk” will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at 76 Main Street in Bryson City. Presented by the United Methodist Women’s Group.

Proceeds benefit its outreach efforts.

828.488.8970.

• Waynesville Christmas Tree Lighting will be held during the evening of Friday, Dec. 3, in front of the Oak Park Inn on Main Street. downtownwaynesville.com.

• Sylva Christmas Tree Lighting will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, in front of the Historic Jackson County Courthouse on West Main Street. discoverjacksonnc.com.

• “Christmas Hayrides Through The Lights” from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturdays until Dec. 18 at Darnell Farms in Bryson City. Ride is 20 minutes.

Admission is $12 per person, which includes a holiday beverage. Tickets available at darnellfarms.com.

Smoky Mountain News

• “All Through The Town” holiday celebration will run Dec. 1-31 in downtown

Waynesville. Participating local businesses, restaurants, galleries and breweries will take extra care in decorating for the holidays, staying open later for shopping, and much more. downtownwaynesville.com.

• Innovation Station (Dillsboro) will host a holiday celebration and market at 5 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 3. Free and open to the public. innovation-brewing.com.

• “Winter Wonderland Nights” will return at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, in Franklin.

Downtown will feature living window displays of the holidays, live sounds of the season outdoors at the gazebo and inside stores, free holiday attractions (weather permitting), refreshments, hot cider, great sales from local merchants, and much more. franklin-chamber.com.

ALSO:

• Cashiers Christmas Parade will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Cashiers Crossroads. The theme is “Santa’s Favorite Christmas Characters.” Live broadcast at live.thehighsouth.com.

Hosted by Cashiers Cares, the Post Parade Party will be held at the Village Green’s Commons Hall. There, youngsters will have an opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy refreshments and receive individual treat bags. Sponsored by the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce. cashiers411.com.

• “Cowee Christmas” will begin at 9 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Historic Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center in Franklin.

Holiday music, activities, and much more.

For a schedule of events, click on coweeschool.org.

• Mountain Makers Craft Market will be held from noon to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at 308 North Haywood Street in downtown Waynesville. Over two dozen artisans selling handmade and vintage goods. mountainmakersmarket.com.

Reservations are now being made for this year’s “Seasons of Light Multicultural Holiday Celebration” at the Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center in Waynesville.

The community will have four opportunities to experience this family-friendly celebration featuring food, music, and customs from holidays around the world.

At this family-friendly event, guests visit areas dedicated to Advent, Diwali, Hanukkah, Fiesta de la Griteria, Las Posadas, Winter Solstice and Kwanzaa. Hosts for each holiday share traditional foods as hors d’oeuvres (for the Saturday viewings) and information about music, games, history and customs.

• Opening Night: 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4. Heavy hors d-oeuvres (packaged to go), music, customs from holidays around the world. Admission is $20 for ages 18 and older, $7 for students ages 13 to 17, and $5 for children 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are free.

Reservations are required.

• Weekday Drop In: noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9. Guests will be able to enjoy the distinctly decorated rooms and learn more about the traditional holiday celebrations, but food will not be served. Admission is a donation of $10 is suggested for attendance at the dropin. Reservations are not required.

• Weeknight Presentation: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9. Hot drinks, a dessert bar, music, customs from holidays around the world. Admission is $12 for ages 18 and older, $7 for students ages 6 to 17, and free for children 5 and under. Reservations are required.

• Encore Presentation: 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 11. Heavy hors d-oeuvres (packaged to go), music, customs from holidays around the world. Admission is $20 for ages 18 and older, $7 for students ages 13 to 17, and $5 for children 6 to 12. Children 5 and under are free. Reservations are required.

These events will be structured to include COVID protocols, and masks will be required inside during the event to help ensure the health and safety of our community and families attending.

“We love to host this event because we get to highlight and celebrate the diversity of our community and our world in a way that is festive, fun and brings us together,” said Lin Forney, executive director of the Pigeon Center.

Proceeds support the Pigeon Center, which offers affordable afterschool and summer enrichment programs for students, programs for seniors, emergency food boxes, historical preservation initiatives, community dinners and other programs and services.

To attend Seasons of Light, make your reservation by calling 828.452.7232. The event will be held at PCMDC located at 450 Pigeon Street in Waynesville in the historic Pigeon Street School building, which served African American elementary school students before desegregation.

For more information, visit pcmdc.org, email pigeoncommunityd@bellsouth.net or call 828.452.7232.

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On the stage

The Bardo Arts Center is pleased to present the Ballet Conservatory of Asheville, which will be returning with a stage production of the “Nutcracker” at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.

Showtime will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11. This magically festive, full-length “Nutcracker” production features professional classical dancers and the Ballet Conservatory of Asheville’s celebrated company.

In this classic ballet, Clara’s holiday dream comes to life, sneaking downstairs at midnight with her beloved new Nutcracker doll. Swept up in a fantasy toy-soldier battle, she saves her Nutcracker from the Mouse King. She is then whisked away to enchanted lands of snow and sweets, dancing the night away with a colorful host of captivating characters.

To learn more and/or purchase tickets, click on arts.wcu.edu/nutcracker.

arts & entertainment

WCU to present ‘Nutcracker’

your friendly, local blue box — smoky mountain news

‘A Christmas Carol’

November 24-30, 2021 Smoky Mountain News

The Calliope Stage Company and Destination Theatre will present Tony Brown’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at 7 p.m. Dec. 9-11, 3 p.m.

Dec. 11 and 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Dec. 12 at 567 Mill Street in Sylva.

“A Christmas Carol” is a co-production between Calliope Stage Company in Sylva and Destination Theatre out of Atlanta, Georgia.

Adapted for the stage by Atlanta-based writer Tony Brown, the production will feature two performers with additional devising

by Cory Phelps, Ashlee Wasmund and Dustin Whitehead.

This intimate holiday experience will tour to Sylva, St. Petersburg, Florida, and Columbia, South Carolina, as part of a limited three-city tour in December. The collaborative project is one that is meant to spark Christmas cheer, while blurring the barriers between audience and actors and is sure to be an unforgettable festive experience for all ages.

Calliope Stage Company is a professional nonprofit theatre company established in Jackson County in January 2021. This is their third public production since founding and second partnership with Destination Theatre, a nonprofit professional touring children’s theatre company, also established in 2021.

The Sylva performances will feature festive treat bundles from White Moon and Jame that include a treat and hot beverage. Only 40 tickets per performance are scheduled, with limited VIP seating available.

For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit calliopestage.com.

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arts & entertainment

On the wall ‘Small Works’ exhibit returns The Haywood County Arts Council’s “Small Works” exhibit will run through Dec. 30 at the HCAC Gallery & Gifts showroom in downtown Waynesville.

This year, the exhibit is sponsored at the producer level by the Reece Family in honor of their father Jeff Reece, who owned the 86 North Main Street building for many years and is in the process of selling it.

The Small Works Exhibit is an annual exhibit that expands the types of work for sale in the downtown Waynesville gallery, as well as who can display their work. With 48 artists participating, the exhibit promises to be eclectic. haywoodarts.org.

‘Hard Candy’ holiday craft show The annual “Hard Candy Christmas” arts and crafts show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 26-27 inside the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University.

This mountain tradition started in 1987 in Franklin with eight local artists. It has grown to dozens of original artisans who sell their work at great prices. Expect a dazzling

display of hand-crafted creations such as Father Christmas dolls, fresh mountain greenery, and folk dolls. The ornament collectors always find new additions for the tree.

Admission is $5 for a two-day pass.

Children under 12 are free. Parking is also free. mountainartisans.net.

Want to paint, sip craft beer?

Robin Arramae of WNC Paint Events will be continuing her fun paint nights to bring you not only a “night out,” but an experience that lifts your spirits.

Join others as Arramae shows you stepby-step how to paint a beginner level painting as you sip on your favorite craft beer.

Events will be held at the following locations: Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 9; and Balsam Falls Brewing (Sylva) from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 22; BearWaters Brewing (Canton) from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 23. For 2022, events will also be held once-a-month at the 828 Market on Main (Waynesville).

Please visit WNC Paint Events (@paintwnc) Facebook page, under “Events” for date and time of upcoming events. For pricing and to sign up, text Arramae at 828.400.9560. Space is limited.

Drinks sold separately.

Stecoah Drive-About Tour The annual Stecoah Arts & Crafts Drive About Tour will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 26-27 at featured studios 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, beeswax lanterns and pillar candles, original paintings and drawings, fiber, quilts, photography, artisan cheeses and more.

The tour includes Nantahala School for the Arts (Southwestern Community College), Gallery Zella, Stecoah Artisans Gallery, Yellow Branch Pottery & Cheese, Taylor’s Greenhouse, Wehrloom Honey & Essentials, Junk ‘n’ Style, and Hunting Boy Wood Carving. stecoahvalleycenter.com.

November 24-30, 2021

• “Holiday Market” with local artisans will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday through Dec. 18 at 117 Island Street in Bryson City. Outdoor event. Leashed pets are welcome. 828.488.7857 or greatsmokies.com.

• “Pop-Up Holiday Shop” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, at Darnell Farms in Bryson City. Gifts from local small businesses. darnellfarms.com.

• A creative miniature art class with Renae Dotson will be held from 6 to 9 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 9, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. Those attending the class will be making a quilt “book” that opens to reveal a quilt room. This is not a quilting class. The fabric will look like mini-quilts.

You will make a hanging quilt rack with quilts, hanging thread spool rack, and other accessories — all in miniature. And all made by you. Supplies for this class are $25.

Pre-register by calling Dotson at 828.342.8919. Class size is limited.

Smoky Mountain News

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• The “Contemporary Clay 2021” exhibit will be on view through Friday, Dec. 10, at the Western Carolina University (WCU) Fine Art Museum in Cullowhee. The showcase gathers artists from a variety of backgrounds who push boundaries on topics including race, culture, sexuality, gender, and class.

For information, call 828.227.ARTS. wcu.edu/bardo-arts-center/fine-art-museum.

• Jesse Adair Dallas will be showing his artwork at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin during the months of November and December. Open to the public. For more information, email jesse@enjoyarttoday.com.

• “Jefferson Pinder: Selections from the Inertia Cycle” exhibit is currently on display at the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University. Pinder focuses on themes of labor and endurance in his video art practice with metaphoric references to African American identity, history, and experience. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday and until 7 p.m.

Thursday. For information, call 828.227.ARTS or visit arts.wcu.edu/jeffersonpinder.

• “Thursday Painters” group will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursdays at The Uptown Gallery in Franklin. Free and open to the public. All skill levels and mediums are welcome. Participants are responsible for their own project and a bag lunch. For more information, call The Uptown Gallery at 828.349.4607 or contact Pat Mennenger at pm14034@yahoo.com. franklinuptowngallery.com.

• Haywood County Arts Council’s “Art Works @ The Library,” a collaborative program between the Haywood County Public Library system and the HCAC, is currently showcasing works by artist Cayce Moyer at the Canton Library. Working in traditional and mixed media, Moyer blends the worlds of high-brow and low-brow work.

On the shelf

Opioid Use Disorder

Jeff Minick

S

two central female characters. Marla brought to mind women — and for that matter, men — who lose their way when young, but who later try to rectify their mistakes. Hannah is one of those young women who strive to do well in their jobs, who forge wonderful friendships, and who are resilient, bouncing back time and again from difficulties and failure.

Traveling back in time through Ivy’s diary to Paris in the 1920s also kept me on board with this book. Many of us romanticize the City of Lights when Hemingway, Fitzgerald, James Joyce, Gertrude Stein, and so many other poets and writers walked those streets. Realizing this appeal, Hannah initiates special tours celebrating that Parisian decade, which are an immediate hit with tourists.

With its descriptions of Paris, its portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship renewed, and a young heroine making her way in the world as did her great-grandmother, “Lost in Paris” is an entertaining and enlightening read peopled by ordinary folks.

••• December 7, 2021, is the 80th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

One way to commemorate the battle that would eventually change the world forever is to read a bit about it.

Google “Pearl Harbor Attack Books,” and you’ll find a couple of dozen works on this momentous event.

This week, I visited my public library and picked up Gordon Prange’s “Dec. 7 1941: The Day the Japanese Attacked Pearl Harbor.” Written with the collaboration of Donald Goldstein and Katherine Dillon, this is a minute-by-minute account of events on what President Franklin D. Roosevelt called a “date which will live in infamy.”

Here the authors describe the heroics shown by the American sailors, soldiers, and air personnel then stationed in Hawaii.

Blasted from their bunks, mess halls, and ordinary Sunday morning duties, these men battled back as best they could against their attackers, manning their stations, rescuing their comrades at the risk of their own lives, and assisting civilians.

Remembering who they were may help us remember who we are.

(Jeff Minick reviews books and has written four of his own: two novels, “Amanda Bell” and “Dust On Their Wings,” and two works of nonfiction, “Learning As I Go” and “Movies Make the Man.” minick0301@gmail.com.)

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Smoky Mountain News

Heart to Heart Tours in Britain, where she conducts the Ultimate Jane Austen Tour.

When we meet her, Hannah is alone, no lover in the background, no husband or children, and no close family connections. She has great friends, especially her two London flat mates, but otherwise is without the joys and burdens of personal relationships. After leading her most recent tour, she’s eagerly anticipating some time off for rest and relaxation.

And then her mother Marla shows up.

Not that Marla was ever much of a mother. She’s an alcoholic working on her sobriety who took a string of lovers and left Hannah to the care of her grandmother.

Never having known her father — Marla refuses to divulge any information about him, claiming she isn’t even sure which man had left her alone and pregnant — Hannah resents Marla’s wild past and willful neglect.

But now here she is on New Year’s Eve, 2018, bursting into Hannah’s life with an old key and a deed to an apartment in Paris that apparently had belonged to Marla’s grandmother. Marla convinces Hannah to accompany her to Paris, and there they find the dust-covered apartment, locked down since 1940, where Ivy had lived long ago. They discover her diary in which Ivy describes meeting such American expatriates as Ernest Hemingway and Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald, some painters, and a famous French writer who died in the early days of the Second World War. During their investigation of Ivy’s secret life, Hannah and Marla reconnect with each other, fall in love with two different men, and discover many details from their own hidden pasts, including several family members previously unknown to them. In the end, then, “Lost in Paris” tells the story not only of a renewed relationship between mother and daughter, but also gives us a portrait of love and family.

This novel appealed to me because of the

November 24-30, 2021

ometimes the world seems pretty crazy, especially for those of us who follow the daily news and commentaries online.

Recently, I read of a public autopsy in a Marriott Hotel in which viewers paid $500 apiece to watch some guy dissect the corpse of a 98-year-old World War II veteran who had died with COVID-19. In another instance a naked man, clearly missing a few light bulbs in the attic and slathered in hand sanitizer, created a Writer fracas in a police station. When the police tazered him, the hand sanitizer caused him to burst into flames.

On a broader scale, I’ve read articles about the skyrocketing psychoses and drug abuse the pandemic has caused. Some commentators apparently believe that rising prices at the pump and in the grocery store will be somehow good for Americans. Still others claim that we should judge our fellow citizens by the color of their skin and not by their character, which turns the philosophy of Martin Luther King on its head.

On and on it goes.

Here’s the good news: Most people we meet on a daily basis, or the family and friends we hang out with, contradict these dire reports. They are regular folks, with their energies centered on their work, their families, and their everyday lives. They stand in contrast to the news reports we follow, living examples that “normal” is still with us, but just doesn’t make the headlines.

And those are the sort of people we find in Elizabeth Thompson’s “Lost in Paris” (Gallery Books, 2021, 352 pages).

Hannah Bond, an American, works for

Opioid Addicti

arts & entertainment

Regular people shine in novel set in Paris

Open call for ‘Milestone’ submissions Submissions are now being taken for the 2021 edition of the Milestone, the biennial art and literary review published by Southwestern Community College.

Milestone showcases the creative expressions of local writers and visual artists. The periodical is representative of the abundance of talent in the region and seeks to foster creative potential by providing artists an opportunity to gain public awareness.

All residents of Jackson, Macon and Swain counties and the Qualla Boundary, as well as SCC students and alumni, are eligible. Only unpublished work may be submitted. Prose should not exceed 2,000 words and should be limited to two pages in length.

For more information, contact Hannah Sykes at 828.339.4463 or h_sykes@southwesterncc.edu.

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

Mount Pisgah rises above the fields at Pisgah View Ranch. Donated photo

Budget news for parks and recreation

Budgeting for conservation State budget amplifies funding for trails, parks and conservation

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER estern North Carolina will see a new state park, rail trail efforts and miles of backcountry paths following Gov. Roy Cooper’s Nov. 18 signature on the first state’s first comprehensive budget law since 2018.

Over the next two years, the budget will increase state funding for parks, trails and conservation grants by hundreds of millions of dollars, a boost that’s largely due to pandemic-related federal aid. Some federal dollars will go directly toward recreation and conservation budgets, while others fund different areas of the budget, thereby freeing up additional state revenues.

“I think we’re going to see significantly more parks and trails and greenways both in state parks but also local parks, local communities all across the state,” Reid Wilson, secretary of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, told The Smoky Mountain News. “What’s exciting about that is that the budget shows that the state’s leaders recognize the high value that North Carolinians put on having plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities. I think that bodes well for continued expanded funding in the future to continue to provide outdoor recreation to people in North Carolina.”

W

CLEARING THE WAY FOR PISGAH VIEW The budget includes $12.2 million in non-

recurring funding for Pisgah View State Park, 2.5 square miles of former ranch property straddling Haywood and Buncombe counties.

The legislature approved it as a new state park in 2019, but it has yet to be purchased out of private ownership. The enabling legislation allowed the state to start seeking funding toward the approximately $18.2 million purchase price it had agreed to with the current owners, the Cogburn family.

About $6 million of that price tag has been paid so far, and the newly enacted budget will provide the balance, with $9 million available in the current fiscal year and $3.2 million in 2022-23.

The contract was set up as a five-year installment plan, but the budget’s adoption will shave a full year off that timeline, meaning that the park will likely open to the public sooner than originally planned, Wilson said.

The budget also provides initial staff for the park to develop a master plan in partnership with the community. That process will take “a couple years,” Wilson said, and once it’s complete a certain amount of work will need to take place on the property before inviting the public to explore it — primarily building renovations, parking and trail work, though Wilson said that existing trails on the property seem to be “in pretty good shape.”

“When it’s open, it’s going to be 1,500 beautiful acres for hiking, for going to the big meadow and looking at Mount Pisgah in the distance,” he said. “It’s just a spectacular place.”

Located about a 40-minute drive from both Asheville and Waynesville, the park’s location and stunning beauty are sure to make it a destination, Wilson said.

“It’s truly stunning,” he said. “The fact that it’s so close to Asheville and Waynesville I

think means it will be very popular and heavily used, because we all know that people in the North Carolina mountains love to get outside and hike or bike.”

There’s no firm date for the park’s expected opening, but Wilson said he anticipates that to happen at least by 2025. A more specific goal will likely be announced once staff come on board and start working through the master planning process.

PREPARING FOR “YEAR OF THE TRAIL” In August, North Carolina declared 2023 to be “Year of the Trail,” and the new Complete the Trails Fund established in the 2021-23 budget aims to get the party started early, providing $29.25 million in nonrecurring funding to support the N.C. Trails System.

While official state parks have long been eligible for grants through the Parks and Recreation Trails Fund, this is the first time that the budget has included a significant pot of money reserved just for trails. Funds will be administered by the N.C. Trails Program within the Division of Parks and Recreation, and could be used to plan, build, promote and maintain North Carolina’s 12 official state trails — a count that includes the Roanoke River Paddle Trail, newly established in the budget law. The budget also provides $95,000 in recurring funding for a state parks trail coordinator to oversee trail development efforts.

“That is new and bold and quite substantial,” said Wilson. “It’s so important to fund additional trails because we have seen during the pandemic how much people want and need to get outdoors and stay healthy in mind

While the list is not exhaustive, here’s a look at the biggest-ticket items benefiting parks and recreation in the 628-page budget document that will guide North Carolina for the next two years. n N.C. Land and Water Fund, $100 million (nonrecurring) n Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, $91 million (nonrecurring) n State Parks water and sewer projects, $40 million (nonrecurring) n Complete the Trails Fund, $29.25 million (nonrecurring) n N.C. Land and Water Fund floodplain grants, $15 million (nonrecurring) n Pisgah View State Park, $12.2 million (nonrecurring) n State Parks operating reserves, $3.5 million (recurring) n Ecusta Trail, $500,000 (nonrecurring) n Youth Conservation Corps, $200,000 (recurring) n State Parks trail coordinator, $95,000 (recurring)

and body, and so having this new almost $30 million go toward expanding the state trail system is really an important step forward.

Literally many steps forward when you think about it.”

North Carolina has 12 official state trails that will benefit from the money, including the 1,175-mile Mountain-to-Sea Trail that stretches from Clingmans Dome to the Outer Banks and the 117-mile French Broad River Trail that starts at the Virginia border in Madison County and curves around to the east before ending near Gorges State Park in Transylvania County.

The number also includes several trails that have been authorized but are mostly not built yet, including the Fonta Flora State Trail, a hiking and biking trail to connect Morganton and Asheville; the Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail, which would connect Chimney Rock, Lake Lure, Weed Patch Mountain, Bat Cave, Florence Nature Preserve and Bearwallow Mountain; and the Wilderness Gateway State Trail, which will meander through Catawba and Burke counties and along the border of Rutherford and McDowell.

The Great Trails State Coalition, a group of organizations, agencies and individuals that advocates for increased investment in trails statewide, celebrated the funding as a “landmark victory.”

“It is a job well done by everyone — from the coalition to members of the General Assembly to Governor Cooper,” said Judge Robert C. Hunter, president of Friends of the Fonta Flora State Trail, in a press release from Great Trails. “The citizens of North Carolina will benefit from this coop-

Stream adventure to your living room

Santa to visit Chimney Rock Old Saint Nick will visit Chimney Rock State Park in Rutherford County Saturdays, Dec. 4 and 11, practicing his chimney-climbing game on the iconic rock as Christmas festivities abound.

Santa Claus prepares to rappel down Chimney Rock.

Shop the Highlands Nature Center

Donated photo

Santa will rappel down the Chimney at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. each day, taking a break after each trip to meet visiting children with Mrs. Claus.

The day will also include breakfast with

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

The Highlands Nature Center will host a gift pop-up shop 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, to celebrate Small Business Saturday in Highlands.

Stop by after Thanksgiving festivities to support the Nature Center and get started with Christmas shopping. Merchandise will be set up in front of the Nature Center at 930 Horse Cove Road and include books, board games, puzzles, finger puppets, coffee mugs, earrings, nature-oriented T-shirts and hats.

828.526.2623.

Haywood students top state cattle competition Two Haywood County students took home titles in this year’s N.C. State Fair cattle shows.

Waynesville resident Cole Williams was named the supreme grand champion in the Junior Beef Heifer competition and grand champion in the Junior Beef Heifer Commercial competition.

Logan Ball, also of Waynesville, was the reserve grand champion in the Junior Beef Heifer Angus competition.

Learn more at ncstatefair.org.

Stayat

Maggie Valley Club & Resort thisWinter!

November 24-30, 2021 Smoky Mountain News

above and beyond what they typically get from the state each year.

Of the PARTF funds, 30% is distributed to local governments for projects like parks and greenways, while 65% goes toward state park projects, Wilson said.

Canton Town Manager Nick Scheuer said he’s hopeful that a chunk of that money could fund a $500,000 grant request the town put forward to “As the state’s population grows and more develop trails and other recreand more people clamor for outdoor exeration amenities cise, giving them what they want and need on the 450-acre Chestnut for their health is really important.”

Mountain Nature Park — Reid Wilson property. The town did not receive its requested funding in the first there to be more funding to provide natural round of grants this year but was told that surface trails for people across the state,” the program would likely announce addisaid Wilson. “And again, as the state’s poptional awards if the state passed a budget ulation grows and more and more people with more PARTF funding. clamor for outdoor exercise, giving them “We were told previously that pending what they want and need for their health is the large funding apportionment approval really important.” in the budget, PARTF would consider additional applications for approval this year,” ORE GRANTS FOR PARKS said Scheuer. “I have since reached out to AND CONSERVATION our PARTF contact and was told that a decision would be made within the next two to State trails and parks, as well as locally three weeks.” managed projects like the much-anticipated Because two-thirds of PARTF monies go Chestnut Mountain Nature Park in Canton, toward state park projects, the money could could get a boost from the $91 million in also help hasten development at Pisgah additional funding the budget provides to View, Wilson said. the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, as “I think the pandemic showed us how well as the $100 million allocated to the much people want to be outside and need N.C. Land and Water Fund over the next to be outside,” he said, “and this budget is two years. Those appropriations are nonresponsive to that.” recurring funding the programs will receive erative effort, whether a trail brings them recreational opportunities, healthy lifestyle choices, a positive economic impact or transportation options.”

The budget also provides $500,000 to fund development of the Ecusta Trail, a proposed 19.4-mile rail trail connecting Brevard and Hendersonville.

“There couldn’t be a better time for

the elves from 8 to 11 a.m., Santa photos and one-of-a-kind wish lists typed up on the vintage typewriter of local poet Eddie Cabbage.

At 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., elves will host guided hikes to Hickory Nut Falls, and guests can join naturalists on the Outcroppings Deck at 12:30 p.m. to meet the park’s animal ambassadors. The day will also feature live music, festive craft stations, s’more making at the bonfire and live music.

The event is free with park admission.

outdoors

A special screening of the 5Point Adventure Film Festival will air on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 30, through the regional nonprofit MountainTrue.

Founded in 2007 by adventurer Julie Kennedy, the festival inspires people to explore wild places and return with a renewed vigor to protect the natural world. MountainTrue’s screening will include films from the festival’s “best of” collection, fan favorite short films that boast captivating imagery and inspirational stories. The total run time is 90 minutes.

In “Life of Pie,” two hilarious and quirky own-

ers of The Hot Tomato, a pizza joint in Fruita, Colorado, talk about making mountain biking more accessible in Fruita. “River Looters” sees a group of river surfers in Bend, Oregon, begin looking for lost jewelry and other items at the bottom of the Deschutes River. “Osama & Ayman” tells the story of two brothers who are Muslim skateboarders as they take their sport to the streets and break down stereotypes in Washington, D.C. The screening is free, but because MountainTrue is paying for the films it encourages those who can to make a donation as part of Giving Tuesday. The event will also include a raffle to win prizes from the outdoor companies sponsoring 5Point. Register for tickets or raffle entry at mountaintrue.org/5pointfilm.

M

1819 Country Club Drive, Maggie Valley, NC

M AG G I E VA LLEY C LU B . CO M OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

39

outdoors

DECEMBER 2-4, 2021

LAKE JUNALUSKA, NORTH CAROLINA

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW Hike the Cataloochee Divide THEJEFF

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BALSAMRANGEARTOFMUSICFESTIVAL.COM Smoky Mountain News

FOR MORE INFORMATION

40

reclaim your weekend

|

visitnc.com/parks

Hike The Purchase to Cove Creek on Wednesday, Dec. 1, on a 4-mile moderate hike led by Jamie and Ruffin Shackleford.

Hikers will meet at 10 a.m. to explore this final section of the Cataloochee Divide.

The hike is one of two offered through Haywood County Recreation in December, the second being a difficult Dec. 15 excursion on the Mountains-to-Sea and Green Knob Trails.

Call 828.452.6789 to register.

New trails coming to Old Fort A grant from Dogwood Health Trust will fund the first 6 of 42 planned miles of new, accessible trails in the Pisgah National Forest near Old Fort, with a pair of community input sessions coming up in December.

The G5 Trail Collective, a trail maintenance and advocacy group embraced by a diverse coalition of nonprofits, individuals and businesses, received the $489,800 grant to further equitable access to the trail system and improve the economy in Old Fort.

By August 2022, 6 miles of multi-use trails — as well as a parking lot, project management, signage and outreach to engage a diversity of trail users — should be up and running. Groundbreaking is expected in January.

The U.S. Forest Service has formally approved plans for all 42 miles of trails following a series of open community forums with frequent and in-depth feedback. More than $200,000 from People on the Move for Old Fort, IMBA, Kitsbow and other private systems paid for the first phase of planning.

Over the past two years, more than 110 jobs and careers have bloomed because of existing trails and the promise of additional recreation use within walking and biking distance of downtown Old Fort. In addition to construction funds awarded to the G5 Trail Collective, Eagle Market Street Development Corporation received $280,000 from the Dogwood Health Trust to expand services in Old Fort to support small business and equitable development.

The coalition will continue the community-led process as the project moves into construction, and community meetings are scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, and 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9. Learn more at g5trailcollective.org/oldfort.

Fontana cleanups remove 3,500 pounds of litter — in addition to picking up trash, they learned to make a plan for their outdoor activities, stay on durable surfaces rather than taking shortcuts, respect wildlife, leave

Volunteers pick up a trashed campsite at Fontana Lake.

Donated photo

01C” in the subject line of emailed comments.

For more information on the proposed rules, visit bit.ly/3qvjDnq. To join the hearing, visit bit.ly/3wbuddp.

Woman dies following Smokies car crash A Sevierville woman is dead following a single-vehicle crash on the southbound Spur between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Wednesday, Nov. 17.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park rangers responded to the call at 11:43 p.m. after the driver of the 2019 Ford Fiesta lost control of the vehicle near the Gum Stand Road intersection and crashed into the river. The vehicle was submerged when emergency responders arrived on the scene, and the front seat passenger Rebecca Hamby, 22, died as a result of her injuries.

Hamby’s body was recovered from the vehicle, and the driver was transported to LeConte Medical Center by ambulance for treatment. Tennessee Highway Patrol Officers are assisting park rangers in the crash investigation, and Gatlinburg Police Department, Gatlinburg Fire Department and Pigeon Forge Police Department all responded to the scene.

FACES

OF

HAYWOOD

are very grateful for the support that the Chamber of “ WeCommerce provides to small businesses such as ours

throughout Haywood County. We have always enjoyed attending all of the events that they have to build businesses in the community through support and education opportunities, provide networking and recognition, and to bring people to our wonderful county. We appreciate all that they continue to do to help make this county such a great place in which to work and do business.”

Wenzel & Wenzel Attorneys at Law 166 Branner Ave Suite A WAYNESVILLE

natural objects behind, dispose of waste properly, minimize campfire impacts and be considerate of others.

When trucks and trailers filled to the brim with trash departed, the campsites looked inviting and volunteers said, “let’s do this again!” To help the effort, visit outdoormissioncommunity.org or contact info@outdoormissioncommunity.org or 336.583.9932.

(828) 452-9099 wenzellawfirm.com

Smoky Mountain News

Cleanup efforts at informal campsites along Fontana Lake removed 3,500 pounds of trash this year, thanks to more than 30 volunteers and grant support from the Tennessee Valley Authority.

The vast shoreline of Lake Fontana gets cleaned up each November by area volunteers when the lake levels draw low, and park staff and volunteers tidy campsites on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park side of the lake. But the many verdant campsites that dot the islands and peninsulas are left to deteriorate with strewn litter.

After witnessing the trash firsthand during a June canoe trip, leaders with Outdoor Mission Community decided to do something about it. The TVA fulfilled a grant request from the organization, funding four pontoon boat rentals and lunches for volunteers on cleanup days Aug. 10 and Oct. 16. TVA also provided trash bags, gloves and grabbers.

During the cleanup, volunteers received an education in Leave No Trace principles

A virtual public hearing on proposed amendments to the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s “Conformity with North Carolina Environmental Policy Act” will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, via Webex.

The public hearing is part of the required rule review and readoption process required by state law. The proposed amendments are intended to clarify existing language and update the rules to reflect statutory changes, according to a press release from the DEQ. The proposed changes will not have any fiscal impacts to state or local governments, a Regulatory Impact Analysis found.

To speak at the hearing, register at forms.office.com/g/ESsj4Jzfkq prior to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 1. Written comments will be accepted through 5 p.m. Dec. 14 at jennifer.everett@ncdenr.gov or via mail to Jennifer Everett, 1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1601. Include “15A NCAC

November 24-30, 2021

ready to go upon its release, a great sign.

Wildlife biologists at the N.C. Wildlife The outcome could have been much differResources Commission are praising ent if the people of Asheville hadn’t worked Asheville residents for helping them locate directly with the Wildlife Commission to a distressed female bear cub wandering locate the bear.

North Asheville with a clear container stuck “Thanks to everyone who helped our on her head.

District Biologist Justin McVey Wildlife Commission staff received an initial approach the distressed bear, report late Monday whose head was trapped night, Nov. 15, that a inside a clear container. bear cub was seen Donated photo with a jug on its head, likely from trash. McVey and staff spent the next two days looking for the bear, and the Wildlife Commission employed public outreach to find it.

“Thanks to direct calls to our biologists staff quickly respond to this cub in disand messages in response to our agency’s tress,” McVey said. “Our staff are trained NextDoor post, Asheville residents led us specifically for these types of situations. It’s directly to the cub,” said McVey. “We were a huge help when folks contact us directly; able to safely dart and anesthetize the bear, it helps us respond quickly.” remove the jug from her head and perform Don’t approach injured or orphaned a health check. She was in great health, with bears. Instead, note the location and conno injuries or lacerations, and immediately tact McVey at 828.273.7980 or call the N.C. relocated to a remote area in Western North Wildlife Helpline at 866.317.2401, Monday Carolina.” through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

McVey noted the cub was feisty and

Comment sought on environmental rule updates outdoors

Residents, Wildlife Commission save distressed bear cub

828.456.3021 HaywoodChamber.com 41

outdoors

The beloved Winter Lights event will return this year in its traditional walk-through format. N.C. Arboretum photo

Smoky Mountain News

November 24-30, 2021

Book your dates for Winter Lights

42

Puzzles can be found on page 46 These are only the answers.

Dubbed ‘Asheville’s brightest holiday tradition,’ Winter Lights opens Friday, Nov. 19, with the brilliant display offered daily through Saturday, Jan. 1, at the N.C. Arboretum.

The event’s traditional outdoor walkthrough, open-air format will return this year, featuring the iconic 50-foot lighted tree, a Quilt Garden outfitted with new light designs and a garden experience showcasing popular arrangements alongside never-before-seen displays.

Winter Lights will debut a new, simpler

ticketing process, with tickets sold per vehicle rather than per person. Prices are tiered based on the type of vehicle, day of visit and whether the tickets are purchased in advance, but for a personal vehicle up to 20 feet long, advance tickets range from $30 to $60. Arboretum Society members receive a $5 discount on advance tickets.

Winter Lights is the arboretum’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting many parts of its mission-driven programming. Learn more or buy tickets at ncarboretum.org/winter-lights.

Water testing yields mixed results in Hiwassee Watershed

and Marble indicates that the river’s E. coli problem is contained to the river system’s lower third.

Testing also indicated issues on the Hiwassee River at Sweetwater Park, which had an average E. coli count of 396 cfu/100mL and failed to pass the EPA standard 40% of the time, while Meeks Park II along Nottely River produced an E. coli count of 342 cfu/100mL and failed to pass the EPA’s safe standard 53% of the time.

“The Hiwassee River Watershed is relatively clean,” reads a newsletter from MountainTrue. “Still, we must be wary of negative changes associated with future summer seasons’ heavy rains. Polluted stormwater runoff remains a formidable threat to the Hiwassee River Watershed and the whole of the Southern Blue Ridge.”

The organization wants to see the state reinstate the Waste Discharge Elimination Program, which focuses on identifying and fixing impaired septic systems, and to increase funding for county Soil and Water Conservation Districts so those agencies can better help farmers adopt best management practices. The nonprofit’s Western Regional Office continues to implement an educational campaign focused on the ways human-geese interactions compromise waterway safety.

Lakes in the Hiwassee River Watershed tested extremely low for E. coli and other pathogens this summer, according to data from MountainTrue, though heavy rains, leaky septic systems and animal agriculture caused bacterial pollution in other parts of the watershed.

Hiwassee Lake, Lake Chatuge and Lake Nottely all produced a total of 11 readings with 0 E. coli or other pathogens, and Hiwassee Lake at Hanging Dog had the best overall readings, with an average E. coli count of just 6.5 colony forming units per 100 milliliters. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s safe standard for primary recreational waters is 235 cfu/100mL. Meanwhile, the Valley River at Konehete Park was the watershed’s worst spot in 2021, with a count of 914 cfu/100mL, failing to pass the EPA’s safe standard 80% of the time. Poor animal agriculture practices, domesticated Canada goose populations and leaky septic systems are the primary causes of pollution in the Valley River. Monthly testing in Andrews

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • The Franklin Chamber of Commerce will hold the Annual Christmas Parade at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28.

The theme will be “A Season for Giving.” Entry forms can be picked up and returned at the Chamber office, deadline for entry is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 24. For additional information, contact the Franklin Chamber of Commerce by calling 828.524.3161.

• Indivisible Swain County NC will hold a meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 29, via Zoom. Agenda items include action steps for priorities for 2022. All are welcome to join and share concerns and ideas. Email maryherr2017@gmail.com for a link or call 828.497.9498.

• The annual wreath laying on graves of veterans buried at Greenhill Cemetery in Waynesville will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec.18. This is part of the nationwide Wreaths Across America event.

• The Housing Needs Assessment of Western North Carolina, a comprehensive assessment conducted by Bowen National Research, will be presented during an informational webinar at noon Dec. 3. Anyone is welcome to attend and may register here, tinyurl.com/6et9unv9.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • Seasons of Light Multicultural Holiday Celebration will take place 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4; noon to 2 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 9; and 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center.

For more information about the family-friendly event, visit lcmdc.org, email pigeoncommunityd@bellsouth.net or call 828.452.7232.

GROUPS AND MEETINGS • The December 2021 meeting of the Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society was canceled. The group will re-evaluate and make a decision about January later in December.

POLITICAL CORNER • Mark Pless Meet & Greet will take place at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 30, at the Maggie Valley Pavilion at Maggie Valley Town Hall. All are welcome. Entry will require a $30 donation at the door.

SUPPORT GROUPS • Dementia Caregivers Support Group, for those providing care for folks who are dealing with dementia, meets from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Haywood Senior Resource Center (81 Elmwood Way, Waynesville). For additional information call 828.476.7985.

• Al-Anon, for families and friends of alcoholics, meets every Monday night from 7-8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 77 Jackson St., Sylva. Enter at front of church through the door to the left of the sanctuary; meeting is first door on the right. The Church requests that you wear a mask if you are not vaccinated.

• Narcotics Anonymous meetings are back "live" in-person after a year of being on Zoom only. Local meetings are 12 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays at Sylva First

Smoky Mountain News

n All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. n To have your item listed email to calendar@smokymountainnews.com United Methodist Church in downtown Sylva. Entrance at back of building. Also Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Cullowhee Methodist Church and Saturdays 6 p.m. at Cullowhee Methodist Church. Meetings in Haywood County, Macon County and Swain County have reopened as well. For more details visit ncmountainna.org.

A&E

• The first ever drive-thru Christmas Light Show in Haywood County opens at the Smoky Mountain Event Center, formerly Haywood County Fairgrounds, on Wednesday, Dec. 1, and runs through the holidays.

Tickets for the nightly show are available online-only at 38main.com with only 100 cars per one-hour time slot.

• The Annual ‘Hard Candy Christmas’ Art and Crafts Show will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26 and Saturday, Nov. 27, inside and outside the WCU Ramsey Center. Admission is $5 for adults and children under 12 are free. Free parking and concessions are available. For more info www.MountainArtisans.net or contact Doris Hunter at djhuner155@gmail.net.

• Mountain Makers Craft Market will be held from noon to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at 308 North Haywood Street in downtown Waynesville. Over two dozen artisans selling handmade and vintage goods.

Special events will be held when scheduled. mountainmakersmarket.com.

• The Cashiers Christmas Parade to be held at 3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4. Registration to participate in the parade is Friday, Nov. 19. office@cashiersareachamber.com • Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host Sanctum Sully (rock/soul) Dec. 11. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.246.0350 or boojumbrewing.com.

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Bob Zullo (guitar/vocals) Nov. 27 ($10 cover) and Kevin Williams (piano/vocals) Dec. 4 ($10 cover). All shows begin at 7 p.m. Limited seating. Reservations required.

828.452.6000 or classicwineseller.com.

• First United Methodist Church (Franklin) will host the Brasstown Ringers (Appalachian/holiday) at 7 p.m. Dec. 10.

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will host a “Jazzy Holiday Party” 5 p.m. Dec. 16. Free and open to the public. innovation-brewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Shane Meade (singer-songwriter) Nov. 27 and Natti Love Joys (reggae/soul) Dec. 11. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host Natti Love Joys (reggae/soul) Dec. 10. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless

otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host Shane Meade (singer-songwriter) Nov. 26 and Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) Nov. 27. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 or mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

• Oak Forest United Methodist Church will host the Brasstown Ringers (Appalachian/holiday) at 7 p.m. Dec. 3.

• Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host Tricia Ann Band Nov. 26, Mile High Band Nov. 27, Blackjack Country Dec. 2, Explore The Myth Dec. 3 and The UpBeats Dec. 4. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.538.2488.

FOOD AND DRINK • “Flights & Bites” will be held starting at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville. For more information on upcoming events, wine tastings and special dinners, click on waynesvillewine.com.

• The “BBQ & Brews Dinner Train'' will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on select dates at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City. Full service all-adult first class car. Craft beer pairings with a meal, and more. For more information and/or to register, call 800.872.4681 or click on www.gsmr.com.

• “Dillsboro After Five” will take place from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays in downtown Dillsboro. Start with a visit to the Jackson County Farmers Market located in the Innovation Station parking lot. Stay for dinner and take advantage of late-hour shopping. www.mountainlovers.com.

• There will be a free wine tasting from 6 to 8 p.m. every Thursday and 2 to 5 p.m. every Saturday at The Wine Bar & Cellar in Sylva. 828.631.3075.

• The “Uncorked: Wine & Rail Pairing Experience” will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on select dates at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City. Full service all-adult first class car. Wine pairings with a meal, and more. For more information and/or to register, call 800.872.4681 or click on www.gsmr.com.

Outdoors

• Friends of Panthertown is hosting a series of trail work days this fall, and all are invited to come pitch in.

Scheduled work days are Friday, Dec. 3 and Saturday, Dec. 18. No previous trail work experience is necessary.

Work days typically run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with about 5 miles of hiking on moderate trails while doing trail corridor clearing, pruning and some tread and drain work. To sign up, email trails@panthertown.org.

Learn more at www.panthertown.org/volunteer.

• Hike the Waynesville Watershed during a guided hike offered Wednesday, Dec. 1, starting at the Waynesville water treatment plant on Rocky Branch Trail. The group will meet at 11 a.m., with the hike concluding by 1:30

43

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

Complete listings of local music scene Regional festivals Art gallery events and openings Complete listings of recreational offerings at health and fitness centers n Civic and social club gatherings p.m. No dogs. Space limited. Free for Haywood Waterways members with a $5 suggested donation for nonmembers. Sign up with Christine O’Brien at Christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.

• Winter Lights opened Nov. 19, with the brilliant display open daily through Saturday, Jan. 1, at the N.C. Arboretum. For a personal vehicle up to 20 feet long, advance tickets range from $30 to $60. Arboretum Society members receive a $5 discount on advance tickets. Learn more or buy tickets at ncarboretum.org/winter-lights.

• The Gobble on the Green 5K will take place Thanksgiving Day at 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 25, at the Village Green in Cashiers, or as a virtual event with entries due Sunday, Nov. 28. The cost is $25 or free for the fun run starting at 10:30 a.m. Sign up at runsignup.com.

• The Cold Turkey 5K and Little Turkeys Fun! Run/Walk will take place Thanksgiving morning at 9 a.m.

Thursday, Nov. 25, using an out-and-back route starting at the Tassee Shelter Greenway Park in Franklin. Cost is $20 or $5 for the kids fun run/walk. Sign up at runsignup.com.

• Do the Waynesville Sunrise Rotary Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day, starting at 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 25 at Weldon Outdoor Gymnasium at Lake Junaluska. Cost is $30 for adults and $15 for youth 12 and under. Sign up at imathlete.com.

• The Highlands Nature Center will host a gift pop-up shop 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, to celebrate Small Business Saturday in Highlands. 828.526.2623.

• A special screening of the 5Point Adventure Film Festival will air on Giving Tuesday, Nov. 30, through the regional nonprofit MountainTrue. The screening is free.

The event will also include a raffle to win prizes from the outdoor companies sponsoring 5Point. Register for tickets or raffle entry at mountaintrue.org/5pointfilm.

• Hike The Purchase to Cove Creek on Wednesday, Dec. 1, on a 4-mile moderate hike led by Jamie and Ruffin Shackleford. Hikers will meet at 10 a.m. to explore this final section of the Cataloochee Divide. The hike is one of two offered through Haywood County Recreation. Call 828.452.6789 to register.

• Old Saint Nick will visit Chimney Rock State Park in Rutherford County Saturdays, Dec. 4 and 11, practicing his chimney-climbing game on the iconic rock as Christmas festivities abound. Santa will rappel down the Chimney at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. each day. Breakfast with the elves will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. At 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., elves will host guided hikes to Hickory Nut Falls, and guests can join naturalists on the Outcroppings Deck at 12:30 p.m. to meet the park’s animal ambassadors. The event is free with park admission.

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year old give us a call at: 828-476-5060 or email: emetcalf@srjunioracademy.com

SRJA: ENROLLING NEW STUDENTS NOW! Shining Rock Junior Academy is currently accepting new students! If you, or anyone you know, are looking for a quality preschool for your 3-5

THE JACKSON COUNTY DEPARTMENT Of Social Services is recruiting for a full-time Community Social Services Assistant. Duties primarily involve transporting foster children for a variety of purposes such as visits with parents, medical appointments, counseling, education, or training. Candidates for this position should be highly dependable, adaptable, have the ability to lift children and car seats, have complet-

Old Edwards Hospitality Group Highlands NC NOW RECRUITING FOR:

ed high school, interact well with children, and have a valid NC driver’s license with a good driving record. The starting salary is $24,168.16.

The application for employment is available online at: http://www. jcdss.org and should be submitted to the Jackson County Department of 6RFLDO 6HUYLFHV *ULI¿Q Street, Sylva, NC 28779 or the Sylva branch of the NC Works Career Center.

Applications will be taken until November 29, 2021.

PREVENTION SPECIALIST: PT Jackson County (Grant Funded) Responsibilities will include: Familiarity with the Strategic Prevention Framework, Environmental strategies, Coalition development as well as an understanding of trauma and resilience.

Preferred experience in substance misuse prevention or public health. AA/BA in Behav-

ioral Health and/or Public Health preferred. To be considered, you must complete an application by visiting www.mountainprojects.org Mountain Projects Inc. 2177 Asheville, Rd. Waynesville, NC. EOE/AA. IN HOME CAREGIVER NEEDED Senior female in Clyde needs assistance on weekends. Flexible hours.

Basic meal prep and light housekeeping preferred.

Call April at 828-2765977.

THE JACKSON COUNTY DEPARTMENT Of Social Services is recruiting for a Foster Care Social Worker in Child Welfare. This position will work with foster children and provide services to families where needs have been LGHQWL¿HG 5HTXLUHV OLPLWed availability after hours as needed. The starting salary is $42,102.07, if

2nd Shift Maintenance Engineer, Warehouse Supervisor, Sales & Catering Asst, Housing Manager, Estate Concierge, Asst F&B Mgr, Banquet Server, Host, Server, Busser, Bartender, Sous Chef, Cook, Asst Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook/Baker, Dishwasher, Reservations Specialist, Front Desk Supervisor, Front Desk, Bellman, Night Audit, Security, Housekeeping, Laundry, Cosmetologist, Spa Attendant, Massage Therapist, Spin Instructor, Graphic Designer, Banquet Supervisor.

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p: 828.452.4251 · f:828.452.3585 classads@smokymountainnews.com www.wncmarketplace.com Face coverings are required in all public indoor spaces.

44

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IXOO\ TXDOL¿HG 0LQLPXP TXDOL¿FDWLRQV LQFOXGH D four year degree in a HuPDQ 6HUYLFH ¿HOG 3UHIerence will be given to applicants with a Master’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and/or experience providing Social Work services. Applicants should complete an application for Jackson County which is located at http://www.jcdss. org and submit it to the Jackson County Department of Social Services *ULI¿Q 6WUHHW 6\OYD NC 28779 or the Sylva branch of the NC Works Career Center. Applications will be taken until November 29, 2021.

at: https://faytechcc.peop l e a d m i n .c o m / H u m a n 5HVRXUFHV 2I¿FH 3KRQH (910) 678-7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu An Equal Opportunity Employer

FTCC - Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Carpentry Instructor (10 month). Part-time Respiratory Therapy Clinical Instructor. Department Chair Funeral Services Education. Department Chair Mathematics Quantitative Literacy Pathways. Department Chair Business Administration/ Operations Management & Leadership Studies.

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Keller Williams Realty - kellerwilliamswaynesville.com • The Morris Team - www.themorristeamnc.com • Julie Lapkoff - julielapkoff@kw.com • Darrin Graves - dgraves@kw.com Lakeshore Realty • Phyllis Robinson - lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

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McGovern Real Estate & Property Management • Bruce McGovern - shamrock13.com

RE/MAX Executive - remax-waynesvillenc.com • • • • • • • • •

remax-maggievalleync.com The Real Team - TheRealTeamNC.com Ron Breese - ronbreese.com Landen Stevenson- landen@landenkstevenson.com Dan Womack - womackdan@aol.com Mary & Roger Hansen - mwhansen@charter.net David Willet - davidwillet1@live.com Sara Sherman - sarashermanncrealtor@gmail.com David Rogers- davidr@remax-waynesville.com Judy Meyers - jameyers@charter.net

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SUPER

CROSSWORD

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with the line "Meek my Vive le roi" 78 Greek letters before xis 79 Henchman of Captain Hook 80 Eerie sign 81 Get 40 winks 82 "New Jack City" actor 83 Actor Gavin 86 Birds of a given region 88 Eyelash cosmetics 92 Periodical datum indicating years 95 Dog collar jinglers 96 Duelist Burr 97 Radiation units 98 Guernsey's archipelago 102 Intl. oil group 106 Queen, in Madrid 107 Counterparts of egos 108 Skating leap 112 Pep rally cry 113 Writer Sarah -- Jewett 114 Device on which you might see the first words of seven answers in this puzzle 120 Molson, e.g.

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58 $ dispenser 59 Little big cat 60 Part of TNT 61 Bad rating, perhaps 63 Furry friend 64 Mel's Diner waitress 65 D.C. VIPs 66 -- Diego 68 "Fancy that!"

72 73 74 75 76 77 82 83 84 85 87 88 89 90 91 93 94 96 99 100 101 103 104 meal 105 109 110 111 114 115 116 117 118 119

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 42

earn your degree at CTI. Online computer & medical training available for veterans & families! To learn more call 833-970-3466 WORK FROM ANYWHERE You have an internet connection? 13 positions available. Start as soon as today. As simple as checking your email. https://bit.ly/2yewvor MEDICAL BILLING & CODING TRAINING. New Students Only. Call & Press 1. 100% online courses. 833-990-0354 RNS AND LPNS A New Hope Home Care has immediate DAY/ NIGHT/WEEKEND Needs for RNs/LPNs in Cherokee and Franklin areas. Bonus offered for new hires. We are a home care agency providing personal care and skilled nursing services in Western NC. Please reach out to us to learn more.

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46

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WNC MarketPlace

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Real Estate Announcements WHITE-GLOVE

SER-

VICE From America’s Top Movers. Fully insured and bonded. Let us take the stress out of your out of state move. FREE QUOTES! Call: 855-8212782 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise ‘any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination’. Familial status includes children under 18 living with parents or legal guardians and pregnant women.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate in violation of this law. All dwellings advertised on equal opportunity basis.

Rentals LOT FOR RENT for mobile home in Sylva. Small private park. $325/month (828) 331-8285

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November 24-30, 2021

Brian K. Noland d & Cath herine Proben | The Nolan nd-Proben Team e BROKER ASSOCIA ATES 6HH DOO RI RXU OLVWLQJV DW EHYHUO U \ KDQNV FRP DJHQWV QRODQG SUREHQ

The #1 Bev verly-Hanks Team 2018 2 • 2019 • 2020 *LYH XV D FDOO WR KHOS VHOO RU ȴQG \RXU KRPH LQ WKH PRXQWDLQV

Smoky Mountain News

We are going into this t holiday seaason filled wi with h grratitude.

48

Gratitud Gratitude de for the wonderful place we get to call home, home for the connections we we’’ve ve made over the \HDUV DQG IRU GRLQJ ZKDW ZH OR RYH GD\ LQ DQG GD\ RXW +HOSLQJ SHRSOH IURP DOO ZDONV RI OLIH ȴQG their pla ace here in Western North Carolina is more than a job. As natives of Haywood County, we are both b invested in our com mmunity and are passion nate about helping those who are looking DXWLIXO PRXQWDLQV /RFDO NQRZOHGJH PDUNHW H[SHUWLVH DQG ODVWLQJ WR ȴQG WWKHLU KRPH LQ WKHVH EHD connections are at the core of ou ur business. Whether you are buying, selling, won ndering what your ho ome is worth, or have gen ns, reach out. We would love to help! neral real estate question