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Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017 Vol. 19 Iss. 27

Cancer battle causes WCU chancellor to step down Page 3 Offender programs help people find redemption Page 7

CONTENTS On the Cover: An oral history project documenting African American history in the far western reaches of North Carolina is now a book, thanks to Waynesville’s Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center. (Page 4) Antique figurines from the Pigeon Center represent a Gospel choir. Cory Vaillancourt photo

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Cancer battle causes WCU chancellor to step down ............................................3 Local services available for adults with mental illness ............................................6 Offender programs help people find redemption ......................................................7 Meridian starts first fundraising campaign ..................................................................8 HRMC expands to meet behavioral health needs ....................................................9 Bridge across Lake Junaluska Dam could reopen ................................................11 Jackson County ponders pool repairs ........................................................................14 Shooting range sound spurs complaint ....................................................................17 Jackson commissioners OK 185-foot radio tower ................................................18 Education News ................................................................................................................23

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Cancer battle causes WCU chancellor to step down Belcher will go on medical leave effective Dec. 31

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER fter battling brain cancer since April 2016, Western Carolina University Chancellor David O. Belcher announced Nov. 27 that his treatment is no longer working. He will go on medical leave and does not expect to return to his position.

“Despite the best efforts of my medical team, the effects of my glioblastoma brain tumor have continued to worsen in recent months, and the aphasic impact of the disease on my speech and communicative skills has become more pronounced. My medical team has concluded that the latest treatment regimen is not working as hoped,” he said in a statement. “Although I fully intend to explore additional options in my fight against this disease, I do not expect to resume my duties upon completion of leave.”

Belcher’s medical leave will begin Sunday, Dec. 31. He’ll retain his title as chancellor while University of North Carolina System President Margaret Spellings selects someone to serve as acting chancellor. Belcher and his wife Susan will continue living in the Chancellor’s Residence on the WCU campus and remain active and engaged with the university community, though on a limited basis.

Belcher first announced that he’d been diagnosed with a small brain tumor on April 21, 2016, undergoing surgery the following month at Duke University Hospital. The procedure seemed to be a success, with Belcher beginning an 11-month round of radiation and chemotherapy treatments after he recovered from the surgery. However, he announced Aug. 1 that the cancer had returned and that he would embark on a new treatment regimen.

The university community and the region as a whole have rallied around Belcher during his fight against cancer, a testament to the chancellor’s popularity with students, staff and regional leaders alike.

“David is rightly beloved by the Catamount community for his kindness, integrity, passion, energy, sense of humor and leadership,” Spellings said. “I am profoundly grateful to David for his tireless work at WCU — his legacy and impact at WCU will continue for many years to come.”

“I speak for all members of the Board of Trustees when I say that our thoughts and prayers are with David and Susan at this difficult time,” added Patricia B. Kaemmerling, chair of the board. “They have been an exceptional leadership team for Western Carolina University, and they have our sincere appreciation for all that they have done for this institution and the region that it serves.”

News of Belcher’s impending departure came hours before the Jackson County Board of Commissioners gathered for a specialcalled meeting Monday, Nov. 27, and as

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David Belcher and his wife Susan smile during the 2017 Homecoming Parade in downtown Sylva. WCU/Ashley T. Evans photo

— Chancellor David Belcher, Western Carolina University

Rep. Mark Meadows, R-Asheville, was also quick to express his appreciation for the Belchers and well-wishes going forward, sending a statement out the afternoon of Nov. 27.

“The Belchers are beloved in Western North Carolina and have had a timeless impact upon the WCU community during their years of service,” Meadows said. “I know Dr. Belcher’s leadership will certainly be missed, and we will continue praying for him and his family during this road ahead.”

Belcher came to WCU in July 2011 after the UNC Board of Governors chose him to succeed John W. Bardo as university chancellor. A native of Barnwell, South Carolina, Belcher began his career on the faculty of Missouri State University and came to Cullowhee from his post as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

As WCU’s chancellor, he is the head of a UNC institution enrolling more than 11,000 students and employing more than 1,500 full-time faculty and staff.

Belcher’s initial year as chancellor was focused on completing a strategic plan, which is now in the midst of an update. Under Belcher’s leadership, the university has achieved many of the goals outlined in that

Smoky Mountain News

Chairman Brian McMahan called the meeting to order he delayed the business at hand to give each commissioner a chance to comment on Belcher’s announcement.

“He has been a tremendous leader in our community, and I think we all — through this time of the holiday season especially — remember them and encourage him to keep fighting the fight,” McMahan said.

Commissioner Charles Elders said Belcher was a “mighty fine man,” while Commissioner Boyce Deitz described him as someone with an “immense vision” for what Western Carolina University might become. Commissioner Ron Mau said that his thoughts and prayers would be with both David and Susan Belcher.

“He’s definitely been a visionary, a leader that I just feel like has taken us to a whole new level in this county and this region,” said Commissioner Mickey Luker, recounting the many times that he and his kids have cheered alongside the Belchers at basketball games.

“It always amazed me, the guy’s memory,” Luker said. “Every time we went, he would ask them (the kids) about the last time we were there — the sport they were playing, what they’re doing in school — and he would remember some type of activity out of that at the next ball game.”

plan, such as steady increases in enrollment, an 80 percent freshman-to-sophomore retention rate achieved five years ahead of the target and improved offerings at WCU’s Asheville campus.

The plan also had a heavy focus on increasing scholarship offerings for students, and WCU has added more than 200 new endowed scholarships since March 2012 — including a $1.23 million pledge that David and Susan Belcher announced in October, part of the Lead the Way campaign to raise $50 million for endowed scholarships.

Belcher has worked to improve WCU’s physical amenities as well, with recent upgrades including the new mixed-use facility Noble Hall, renovations to Brown Cafeteria and plans for two new residence halls, a medical office building near the Health and Human Sciences Building and the university’s first parking garage.

Belcher has been active in the community as well, a fixture at university events and a member of multiple boards of directors outside the university. He serves on boards for the N.C. Arboretum, the Asheville Chamber of Commerce and NCAA Division I and was previously a member of the boards for Duke LifePoint Harris Regional Hospital and Duke Lifepoint Swain County Hospital.

“Western Carolina University has been a blessing for us both, and we love this place,” Belcher said, speaking for himself and his wife. “I have been honored to lead this fine institution. The university has fed my soul and fulfilled me in immeasurable ways, and Susan has found a true home here amongst friends and avenues of service. However, we agree that we must now concentrate on my health, each other and our families, and living life,” Belcher said.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

“The university has fed my soul and fulfilled me in immeasurable ways, and Susan has found a true home here amongst friends and avenues of service. However, we agree that we must now concentrate on my health, each other and our families, and living life.”

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New book chronicles African American history in WNC

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER n oral history project documenting African American history in the far western reaches of North Carolina is now a book, thanks to Waynesville’s Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center.

“I guess the motivation was because Haywood County just doesn’t have very much documented history of African Americans,” said Lyn Forney, the director of the Pigeon Center.

Indeed, the history of African Americans in this region — where chattelstyle slavery never really took hold — is sparse. That’s primarily due to small population sizes historically and the low post-Civil War educational attainment of African Americans in a segregated South where public education was separate, but far from equal.

“But the more Lynn Forney important reason, to me, is that we’re losing all the elders in our community, without having that in place for them,” Forney said. “I just wanted to hear their stories, and get their stories in a way that would really honor them.”

Forney said that there’s a twofold purpose behind Lift Every Voice!, a 90-page fullcolor book recently published by the Pigeon Center and printed by the Western Carolina University Print Shop.

“I wanted the elders to know and realize that number one, what they have to say is important for everybody else to hear, but number two, it was going to be used and

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

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‘Lift Every Voice’ book reading • Time: 4 p.m.

• Date: Saturday, Dec. 15 • Location: Blue Ridge Books, 428 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville

NOTE: Blue Ridge Books is no longer operating its South Main Street location; the address listed is for the store’s new location in Hazelwood. passed on so that generations beyond them would have it,” Forney said. “We’re losing all of their wisdom, and the young people don’t know from whence they came, so they’re not going anywhere positive.”

The initial run of the book cost around $10,000, according to Forney, and was partially supported by wealthy developer William Elmer Harmon’s Harmon Foundation, the nearly 100-year-old nonprofit that became a crucial part of the Harlem Renaissance by encouraging African Americans in the arts and in business.

Harmon died in 1928.

The Pigeon Center used the funding to pay for the technology that made the book possible — microphones, recorders, computers and the like. All other work in the book was unpaid volunteer work, including design by Katherine Bartel and writing by Sara Jenkins.

Money generated from book sales will go right back into the project.

“When we started, we were not clear on what all of our raw material would end up being, other than we wanted to share it with

“I wanted the elders to know and realize that number one, what they have to say is important for everybody else to hear, but number two, it was going to be used and passed on so that generations beyond them would have it.”

— Lynn Forney, Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center director

the public library so that they would have it for people to see and use and research,” Forney said. “So we have the first book that honors the elders, and that’s not even all of them. Those are the ones that felt safe enough to talk to us, and now that the other ones have seen it, they’re eager to talk to us.”

Indeed the subtitle of the book denotes the fact that it’s only volume one; based on the results stemming from the book’s release, there will likely be several more.

“We’re going to continue with the elders, and then just keep going through the generations,” said Forney. “So we don’t know how many books that will end up being. But the impact has, already from what we can see, made people feel like yes, their life has made a difference, their life has mattered, their life has meant something.”

Recorded within the pages of Lift Every Voice! are almost 20 first-person accounts by some of the area’s oldest residents, all of whom lived through some of the country’s most trying racial times, including the Jim Crow era, segregation, the civil rights movement of the 1960s and the black power movement of the 1970s.

Each of these powerful testimonials is lavishly adorned with a plethora of photographs, and in turn mentions dozens of other figures prominent in Haywood County’s African American legacy.

Names well-known to generations of locals — names like Bryson, Forney, Gibbs, Logan and Love — permeate the book as well as a travelling Lift Every Voice! exhibit now on display at the Pigeon Center through mid-December.

Those families, along many with others, have existed in the county as long as the county has, and possibly longer; although they in most cases lived side-by-side with their white contemporaries, their history, according to Forney, is everyone’s history.

“It kind of opens their eyes, where people say, ‘Oh, they had the same kind of upbringing I did.’ We lived in parallel. But nobody looks at it that way. We’re all struggling, and all trying to live.”

Lift Every Voice is available for purchase at Blue Ridge Books, 428 Hazelwood Ave., and at the Pigeon Center, 450 Pigeon St. For more information on the book, call the Pigeon Center at 828.452-7232.

A collection of vintage dolls, hats and clothing is currently on display at the Pigeon Center.

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Cory Vaillancourt photo

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Every Day is Veterans Day at the Pigeon Center

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The Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center will host an inclusive holiday celebration complete with music, snacks and desserts from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday,

Mythbusting about Food

“Every [VA] hospital I’d been in, different organizations like the VFW had taken veterans out.

We don’t have that here.”

— Lewis Oats, Army veteran

made snacks, reading materials and the like.

“I just heard about a local organization that gave veterans a free oil change. Anything like that is just perfect.”

Oates also said that some of the veterans need legal services they can’t afford, part of the reason he’s so adamant about giving back.

“I’m just giving back what was done for me,” Oates said. “I’ve been wanting to do this for years and I haven’t gotten myself together enough to do it, but I finally said, ‘This is going to be the year.’”

To contact the Pigeon Multicultural Development Center, located at 450 Pigeon Street in Waynesville, call 828.452.7232 or email Director Lyn Forney at pigeoncommunityd@bellsouth.net.

Dec. 2 in its facility at 450 Pigeon Street.

Holiday customs related to different cultural traditions including Advent, Diwali, Hanukah, Fiesta de la Griteria, Las Posadas, Winter Solstice and Kwanzaa will be presented.

Children aged 5 and under are admitted free with two nonperishable food items.

Children 6 to 12 are admitted for $5, and adults, $10. For information call 828.452.7232.

“White foods are bad and we shouldn't eat them!” — This saying comes from folks that seek to eliminate some highly processed carbohydrates made with white flour like pastas and white rice, but are all “white foods” really bad for us?

There are plenty of “white” foods that are good for us.

Here are just a few: • Protein rich foods: chicken, turkey, fish, tofu • Fruits and starchy vegetables that provide vitamins, minerals and fiber: bananas, potatoes, turnips, parsnips, jicama, white beans • What else? Mushroom, garlic, onions, leeks Bottom Line: Don’t be so quick to discriminate about foods based on their color! Think about the nutrient benefits foods provide.

Smoky Mountain News

Season of Light celebration comes to Pigeon Center

Food Facts vs. Fiction

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER lthough honoring veterans each Nov. 11 is a substantial gesture by the grateful citizens of this country, a new program at the Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center seeks to recognize that the rest of the year is just as important as well.

“I’ve been in and out of a bunch of VA hospitals, and they determined I needed long-term care, so I spent 6 months to a year in different hospitals,” said Lewis Oates, an Army veteran with a 100 percent disability diagnosis due to PTSD. “Every hospital I’d been in, different organizations like the VFW had taken veterans out. We don’t have that here.”

That realization led Oates, who also serves on the board of the Pigeon Center, to create a quarterly program called Every Day is Veterans Day. “He’s been in and out of the facility over at the VA in Ashville and he saw the need,” said Lyn Forney, Director of the Pigeon Center. “The veterans that are in the programs there are just kind of stuck. They don’t get recognized, don’t get to go out and do a whole lot of things, and he saw they needed that. They need to feel wanted and loved just like everybody else.”

Last September, the Pigeon Center held the inaugural event, where veterans were

escorted around Waynesville.

“They came over, they went to the Christian Ministry, went shopping, came [to the Pigeon Center] and got haircuts, a free meal, those kind of things,” said Forney, who explained that the next such event will take place Saturday, Dec. 9.

“People can help by of course donating, because we like to give them care packages to take back,” Forney said, noting that there’s a need for personal care items, ready-

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Reaching out for help

Meridian Behavioral Health Services’ Recovery Education Centers Haywood County 131 Walnut Street, Waynesville 828.456.8604 Jackson County 154 Medical Park Loop, Sylva 828.631.3973 Macon County 102 Thomas Heights, Franklin 828.524.6342 Transylvania County 69 N. Broad St., Brevard 828.883.2708

Appalachian Community Services locations Appalachian Community Services provides a number of behavioral health services at The Balsam Center in Waynesville. A recent expansion includes more beds, tele-medicine stations and a serene trail through the woods behind the center. Jessi Stone photo

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Local services available for adults with mental illness

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR sking for help is often the hardest step in the recovery process. Even after realizing you need help, it can be difficult to identify the problem and navigate your way through the mental health system.

Luckily there are a number of providers available in Western North Carolina to help you figure out the best road to recovery.

Meridian Behavioral Health Services and Appalachian Community Services both provide a number of programs and resources for adults dealing with a wide range of mental health disorders and addictions. All you have to do is make a call or walk in the door to start the process.

“We believe recovery is possible for everyone,” said Katie Goetz, service manager for Meridian’s Recovery Education Centers.

“That doesn’t mean an absence of symptoms — it means being able to do the things that are important to them and contributing to society.”

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MERIDIAN ADULT SERVICES

If you are looking for mental health help through Meridian, Goetz said the Recovery Education Center in your community should be the first place you go.

“Our recovery education centers are our front door for services,” she said. “It’s a different kind of model that we get excited about because it promotes empowerment and it’s where folks learn tools they need to support themselves.”

At the RECs, which are located in 6

Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Transylvania counties, everyone is considered a student — not a patient or client. Students can come to the centers to take part in wellness classes for issues like trauma, anxiety, nutrition, selfesteem, recovery and so much more. Students can also access time with a psychiatrist to see what medications might be an option, individual classes, peer support services, counseling sessions and Suboxone clinics at the RECs. Between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2017, the RECs serviced 3,280 people.

“There’s a window for all of us where we need support and now you can just come in and be seen right away,” she said. “Most centers offer four classes a day.”

People are often hesitant to attend one of the classes at Meridian, but Goetz said once you attend one for yourself, you’d see it’s not as intimidating as it may sound. It’s not like group therapy where you have to share everything that’s happened to you with mental illness or addiction.

“It’s more psychological education where they are really practicing the skills and tools they can use in life. Students are learning from other students and you heal with other people,” she said. “People can share what they’re confortable with sharing.”

When it comes to help for substance abuse, Meridian’s RECs accept people in many stages of recovery. Whether you’re completely ready to make a change or not, Goetz encourages you to come in and meet with someone who can meet you exactly where you are.

“Ready or not, come on in. We have support for folks ready to stop and we also support and care for people who are not quite ready or don’t have the resources to stop. They may have a partner also on drugs or their living situation isn’t ideal for quitting,” Goetz said.

Meridian also has jail programs where a clinician goes into the detention centers to lead a substance abuse class and connects

Graham County 217 South Main St., Robbinsville 828.479.6466 Haywood County 1482 Russ Ave., Waynesville 828.452.1395 The Balsam Center 91 Timberlane Road, Waynesville Psychiatric Clinic: 828.454.7220 Adult Recovery Unit: 828.454.1098 Macon County 100 Thomas Heights, Suite 206, Franklin 828.524.9385 Swain County 100 Teptal Terrace, Bryson City 828.488.3294 them with services in the community once they’re released to prevent them from falling into the same bad habits and returning to jail.

In Transylvania County, Meridian works with law enforcement to divert people from jail into treatment for certain offenses.

Funding cuts filtering down from the state have forced Meridian and other providers to do more with less, but Goetz said Meridian is rising to the challenge.

“We’re at a time in our field where quality is really important and we’re all trying to do more with less and still offer quality services,” she said. “I think we’re still doing that but we’re having to be creative.”

For more information about Meridian’s adult services, visit meridianbhs.org/adultservices.

ACS ADULT SERVICES

Appalachian Community Services is the other local provider offering adult mental health services in Western North Carolina.

Headquartered in Murphy, ACS has 24 facilities throughout the region to provide mental health, substance abuse and intellectual and developmental services to children, adolescents and adults. Unlike Meridian, ACS is not a nonprofit organization, and as of July of this year it was acquired by ncgCARE, a national behavioral health network based in Virginia.

With the cuts coming from the state, Tabatha Brafford, director of consumer services with ACS, said partnering with a larger mental health organization will only make ACS services that much stronger.

“They are passionate about behavioral health. Their mission statement is to improve lives — plain and simple — and they have a history of having a lot of positive outcomes with people with mental health issues,” she said. “Partnering with ncgCare allows us to be even more stable. With everything happening in North Carolina right now it’s important to have that.”

At this point, Brafford said ACS has been fortunate not to have to make any cuts to the services it provides and is always looking for new grants that will allow ACS to expand programming for residents.

Thanks to a funding partnership between Vaya Health, ncgCARE and the Evergreen Foundation, ACS was recently able to renovate and expand services at The Balsam Center in Waynesville. The facility-based crisis unit expanded from 12 to 16 beds and includes upgraded technology to enhance safety and security, a substance use group therapy room, a nature trail and a primary care exam room. The center is also ready to go up to 24 beds as soon as the state approve a new certificate of need.

The Balsam Center serves residents in need of treatment for mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety, or for alcohol or drug use, including opioid drug addiction. ACS also provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. All people in need of care, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, are eligible for evaluation.

Brafford said ACS’s next goal is to roll out the behavioral health urgent care by February 2018. Once in operation, the urgent care will allow anyone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis to come to the center at any time, day or night, for an evaluation.

“This is a very big deal — as programs face potential cuts in the system you don’t want people with mental health issues to flood to the emergency department,” she said. “Extra support

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Appalachian Community Services, by the numbers • 75% of admissions to the Balsam Center's Adult Recovery Unit were admitted directly without the individual going to an emergency department for medical clearance.

• Mobile Crisis has already evaluated 1,489 individuals this year — 1,062 individuals were in the community (such as homes and schools). 315 evaluations were at the individual's home. This is 21% of Mobile Crisis evaluations occurring at the individual's home.

• Of the 1,489 individuals evaluated, 651 did not require hospitalization following ACS intervention (support and connecting or reconnected them with services).

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“The problem is so nuanced, and we really have to look at the history of domestic violence and understand how power and control work under the system, and with gender roles and the person’s environment,” she said.

Meridian currently has 35 clients going through the sexual abuse offender program — that’s 35 people a week who have to be seen individually by a therapist and also attend a group session at least once a week.

MENTAL HEALTH IN WNC The number may not seem like a lot, but Romeo said the clinician hours it takes to serve those 35 people is significant. Six group sessions are held each week to accommodate all the clients who are spread out over seven counties and have to travel to Jackson or Haywood to attend.

“I want to stress that even if we only serve five people in these programs it’s a large number,” Romeo said. “We really believe in how this works and it has far reaching implications into the community.”

The domestic violence and sexual abuse intervention programs are aimed at rehabilitating the client, but Romeo said the programs are just as much a community service and a public safety measure to ensure these people don’t reoffend.

The domestic violence intervention program is a six-month program overseen by the North Carolina Council for Women.

Meridian works with offenders to assess

S EE M ERIDIAN, PAGE 8

“The different stakeholders in the system continue to improve our relationships and partner wherever we can.

It’s better for clients to have an integrated care treatment as a team.”

will be at the Balsam Center when people are experiencing a crisis.”

Like Meridian, ACS offers diagnostic assessments by mental health professionals, outpatient services for substance abuse, individual, group and family therapy, medication management services, and a number of classes to help people with depression and anxiety, anger management, substance abuse and more.

ACS also has two group homes located in Clay and Cherokee counties for adults and works closely with other residential programs in the state to find proper placement for people who need stabilizing after a mental health

crisis. Tele-medicine technology has also helped ACS decrease wait times for patients to be seen by a physician.

“Despite the cuts, there is so much effort going into making our system the best it can be. There’s a lot of great services out there and so many people who still don’t know about them,” Brafford said. “The different stakeholders in the system continue to improve our relationships and partner wherever we can. It’s better for clients to have an integrated care treatment as a team — it leads to much better possible outcomes.”

For more information about ACS’s adult services, visit www.acswnc.com/acs-services.

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Smoky Mountain News

— Tabatha Brafford, ACS director of consumer services

Offender programs help people find redemption

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR espite funding cuts from the state and Vaya Health, Meridian is working hard to make sure the programs for domestic violence and sexual abuse offenders stay viable.

Meridian offered the offender programs long before it merged with JacksonHaywood-Macon Psychological Services in 2016 to become a comprehensive provider for children and adults. Becoming a comprehensive provider was a requirement in order for providers to continue receiving Single Stream Funding and Medicaid dollars from the state.

Donald Reuss, Vaya’s senior director of provider network, said the offender therapy was “legacy programming” left over from the old days when local organizations in each county managed mental health services. Newly formed region Local Management Entities like Vaya Health now administer funds from the state to local providers.

Reuss said it’s not a required program because sexual and domestic abuse isn’t necessarily caused by a mental health problem.

Since dealing with $14 million worth of cuts from the state, Vaya had to make difficult decisions about which programs to prioritize. Since the offender program only serves a limited number of people and isn’t a requirement, it was cut.

Maria Romeo, director of offender services at Meridian, said behavioral health and mental health are not mutually exclusive. Even though an abuser may not be mentally ill, assault is still a societal behavioral problem that can manifest from a number of circumstances.

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Meridian determined to keep adult offender services

developed throughout his life. Guinn said he quickly discovered the way he was operating in life didn’t align with the person he wanted to be. Once he changed his behavior to match the person he aspired to be inside, his perspective and goals changed.

“What the program gave me was a functioning life — it taught me to quit using drugs and fighting everybody. It taught me how to have healthy relationships with my ex-wife and kids,” he said.

After completing the Meridian programs, Guinn went to work for Meridian as a peer specialist to help others change their lives for the better. As a peer, Guinn sits in on the group sessions to offer a firsthand perspecRobert Guinn, a peer specialist with Meridian Behavioral tive for clients going Health Service, shares his achievements with co-worker through situations similar Pamela Graves during the third annual Western Regional to what he found himself in Recovery Rally. Donated photo. two years ago. While clinicians running the groups are trained professionals, Guinn’s presence provides a bridge between the client and provider.

“I use my experience on both sides dealing with clinicians and also living the life most of them came from. I share my experience and how I got to where I am and I encourage them to listen to the clinicians,” Guinn said. “Sometimes they feel

BY J ESSI STONE like if you didn’t experience it, you don’t N EWS E DITOR know how to get out of it. But I can share aywood County native Robert Guinn my personal life history and bring credibilleads a fairly normal life these days. ity and hope to them.”

He has a good attitude, a fulfilling job, a good circle of friends and loves bragging on his 14-year-old daughter.

“What the program gave “She has straight A’s and perfect attendance in school. I’m so proud,” he said. me was a functioning But just two years ago, Guinn’s life was life — it taught me to very different. For most of the time he was in his 30s, he said he was on drugs, had no quit using drugs and home, fought with his wife and others, didfighting everybody.” n’t see his children and had no future. He never imagined he’d have custody of his — Robert Guinn, Meridian daughter again.

Behavorial Health peer specialist “I thought I’d never have her live with me again after what I did,” he said.

Guinn knows the other clients in the Going through the substance abuse and program don’t have to always be where domestic violence programs offered they are — he knows people can change through Meridian Behavioral Health Services is what turned Guinn’s life around. because he changed. That’s why he’s dedi“When I came into recovery two and a cated to supporting others and why he’s a strong advocate for the offender programs half years ago, my house was being foreoffered through Meridian. closed, I had signed over my kids’ cusIf Meridian has to discontinue the tody through DSS so they wouldn’t go into the foster system, I had no vehicle — offender programs because of a lack of funding, the only other option for many had to walk everywhere in Haywood offenders is more jail time. Some may County — and I was still shooting up think that’s the best place for them to be, dope,” Guinn said. but Guinn disagrees.

He said the program he went through “Prison is not the answer for any of it. at Meridian was the greatest gift he could Separating a portion of the population out have ever received. The program, which of society where they aren’t making a living includes individual and group therapy sessions, forced him to evaluate his own belief and can’t interact with society only perpetuates the problem,” he said. systems — good ones and bad ones he 7

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Meridian starts first fundraising campaign

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR major fundraising campaign is a significant undertaking for any nonprofit organization, but it’s especially difficult when an organization has to split its time between providing behavioral health services in seven western counties and trying to come up with enough funding to keep its programming.

That’s the position Meridian Behavioral Health Services has found itself in with ongoing funding cuts funneling down from the North Carolina General Assembly. Even though Meridian is a nonprofit, the organization has never had to rely on private donations — a majority of its funding comes from Single Stream Funding and Medicaid dollars from the state.

But desperate times call for desperate measures. Rebecca Swanger, a deputy director of Child and Family Services at Meridian, said it’s time for Meridian to become a more visible organization in the community and push for more community financial support.

While a majority of her time is spent helping children with trauma, she’s taking time away from her caseload to help spearhead a Friends of Meridian fundraising committee.

“Many of us don’t have marketing experience and we’ve never done fundraising before, but we’re helping to start a Friend of Meridian campaign so we can hopefully have consistent funding coming in every year to help people get services when Medicaid or private insurance doesn’t cover

it,” Swanger said. “Even people who have private insurance — many plans don’t cover outpatient services and people have to pay all of it out of pocket.”

Vaya Health, the regional agency that administers state mental health funding to providers in 23 western counties, has received $14 million in cuts over the last two years and is expecting more in the coming years. Cuts to Vaya Health means cuts to local providers like Meridian and

M ERIDIAN, CONTINUED FROM 7

gram, the sex offender program doesn’t have a set length — it all depends on the progress of the offender.

Gathering recidivism statistics on the sexual abuse program is much harder to capture from Meridian’s standpoint, though Romeo said the program definitely lowers the risk of re-offense.

“It really depends on how long someone is in treatment, the age of the victim, the age when they first committed the crime and so on,” she said. “What we do know definitively is that being in treatment lowers the risk.”

Gwen said he takes his job as a peer specialist seriously — not just for the client’s safety but also for the community’s safety. He said there’s much more to consider when cutting these programs than the number of people served or the success rate.

“If we help five people from hurting someone else I think we’ve done a good job,” he said.

The funding cuts to the offender programs have resulted in a decreased staff at Meridian to handle the services. They went from having a three-person clinical team, one administrator and one half-time peer specialist to having one clinician and a half-time peer specialist, with administrative duties

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

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Smoky Mountain News

their risk of re-offending and provides psycho-educational treatment in a group setting to teach offenders about accountability, honesty, nonviolent, nonthreatening and noncontrolling behaviors, sexual respect and partnership.

Based on her experience, Romeo said the domestic violence program is extremely successful.

“For folks who complete the program, 79 to 82 percent of them don’t come back for another domestic violence charge. If they don’t complete it, we do see people coming back again,” she said.

With the sexual abuse intervention program, offenders undergo a psychosexual risk assessment, attend treatment groups, family workshops and therapy, and also receive graduation support through continued group sessions. Clinicians check in with offenders on a monthly basis to conduct risk assessments. Group treatment aims to reduce deviant sexual thoughts and feelings, identify and change the assault cycle, develop victim empathy skills and develop a relapse preven8 tion plan. Unlike the domestic violence pro-

MENTAL HEALTH IN WNC Appalachian Community Services.

For the most part, Meridian has been able to absorb most of the cuts without having to discontinue any of its critical services for adults and children and families, but future cuts could put the organization in a bind.

Vaya Health recently decided to completely stop funding Meridian’s programs for domestic violence and sexual abuse offenders, claiming state mental health dollars were not mandated for those types of services.

Meridian is committed to continuing the offender programs without funding from Vaya. To keep it going for the short term, Meridian had to increase the cost from $10 per session to $80 a session, but it’s better than discontinuing the service altogether.

Swanger hopes the fundraising campaign can also help keep those services affordable.

The early stages of the campaign will be centered on educating the community about the services available through Meridian and how it’s an overall benefit for the health and wellbeing of the counties it serves. Unless you’re a client or involved in the mental health arena, chances are you aren’t familiar with Meridian’s work with therapy, intensive in-home treatment for children and families, substance abuse rehabilitation services and so much more.

“Our goal is to start with stakeholders in the community that already know us and already know the great things we do for the community. We would love to be line items for counties and school districts,” Swanger said. “That will help us to start a base and then we can build on that foundation.”

Meridian plans to begin making presentations to town and county governmental boards to request funding support when the new budget year rolls around in July.

While state funding does provide funding for most services, Meridian still has plenty of expenses that are not reimbursable from the state, including art therapy supplies and toys for children, office equipment, transporta-

tion costs, staff training conferences and interpreters for Spanish-speaking clients.

“If enough people could send just $10 a year, it would really help fill in those gaps,” Swanger said.

The goal is to raise $50,000 a year between annual donations, governmental partnerships and fundraising events. In addition to the educational component, Meridian hopes to host a number of fundraising events next year.

“Good mental health is something we can all get behind. Strong children and families lead to productive and happy members of our community,” Swanger said. “When someone needs help, whether it’s a child or adult, they can receive the services they need right here in WNC — where they’re from and where their friends and family can be here to support them. All of us coming together and giving a little can ensure that our community thrives, continuing to be a great place to live.”

If you would like to donate or find out more about how to help with the fundraising campaign, contact Swanger at Rebecca.swanger@meridianbhs.org or visit https://meridianbhs.org/donations.

Domestic violence in North Carolina • There were 108 domestic violence-related homicides in 2013 in North Carolina.

• 1,678 victims were served in a single day in North Carolina in 2014 — 860 domestic violence victims (432 children and 428 adults) found refuge in emergency shelters or transitional housing provided by local domestic violence programs.

• In a 24-hour survey period in 2014, local and state hotlines answered 637 calls, averaging more than 26 hotline calls every hour.

SOURCE: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

dispersed throughout Meridian.

Meridian also had to increase the cost of the program for offenders to keep it afloat.

Offenders used to pay $10 per session and now have to pay $80 a session.

“Our clients are stepping up to be more accountable or finding ways to make money — they’ve been very accepting of the payment change because they know it’s a good service by qualified people,” Romeo said.

In the meantime, Meridian is launching its first-ever fundraising campaign to support programs not getting fully funded through the state and is working closely with many community partners to come up with innovative ways to improve behavioral health.

“So many people at Meridian have tirelessly been trying to think outside of the box to work it out but we are dedicated to making sure this program continues to happen,” Romeo said.

“We have good relationships with the U.S. Probation Office and the DA’s office to where everyone knows the situation we’re in and we’re putting our heads together looking for ways to diversify funding for these programs.”

Trying to look at the possible positives, Romeo said it’s an exciting time when you begin to partner with others and look outside the box for funding sources.

“We have the possibility of making the program into something we’ve always hoped and dreamed it could be,” she said.

The behavioral health unit at Haywood Regional Medical Center is being expanded from a 17-bed unit to 33 beds, 16 of which are for geriatric patients. Jessi Stone photo

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Organization, 20 percent of adults 60 and older suffer from a mental or neuropsychiatric disorder. More are at risk of developing depression and anxiety as they deal with chronic pain, manage multiple prescriptions and cope with losing their independence.

Gerber said HRMC’s behavioral health unit can assist adult and geriatric patients

with psychiatric evaluations and diagnosis, medication management, therapy and a healthy living plan for after they’re discharged. Misuse of medications is often why elderly patients may end up having a behavioral health crisis.

“In our older population we have to adjust their medication more gingerly because their livers and kidneys are not working as well as they were in their youth,” Gerber said.

— Marc Gerber, director of behavioral health services at HRMC

“Psychiatric services is not where new nurses think they’ll go — I know it never even crossed my mind — but I was looking for a challenge and I found one,” Gerber said. “If you look at the population we serve, here’s a group that needs advocates more than any other group out there.”

For more information, call 828.452.8655 or visit http://myhaywoodregional.com/services/behavioral-health-services.

Smoky Mountain News

Marc Gerber, director of Behavioral Health Services at Haywood Regional Medical Center.

“We’d like to end up being a solution for the community, and geriatric services was a logical choice because that service isn’t anywhere west of us.”

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR aywood Regional Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint hospital, is doing its part to meet the growing mental health needs in the region by expanding its behavioral health unit for adults and geriatric patients.

The entire unit, which already contained 17 beds for adult behavioral health patients, was completely renovated and 16 new geriatric patient beds are being added to complete the expansion project. The extra beds and 7,000 square feet of additional space, which cost $1.3 million, are especially crucial for Western North Carolina where behavioral health beds are scarce and the need is on the rise.

Marc Gerber, director of behavioral health services at HRMC, said no other hospitals west of Asheville offer a behavioral health unit. The lack of mental health beds is not just limited to this region — it’s a nationwide issue.

“You’re not going to find many communities in the U.S. where the need for psychiatric services is being met,” he said. “But we’d like to end up being a solution for the community and geriatric services was a logical choice because that service isn’t anywhere west of us.”

The new geriatric beds are specifically for anyone age 55 and older while the other 16 beds in the unit are for any adults 18 and older. Gerber said the renovations have made the unit safer with more measures to prevent self-harm and offers a brighter, more therapeutic surrounding.

With the region’s population aging quickly, it makes sense for HRMC to focus on providing more mental health services for that age group. According to the World Health

looking to be admitted to the unit. While the average stay time is 14 to 16 days, there is no maximum time — it all depends on how quickly the patient can successfully be transferred to a lower level of care.

So far the unit is doing well, Gerber said, adding that recruitment is always a challenge in the behavioral health field. The unit currently has 45 employees on staff but will need to double that as the expansion is completed.

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Haywood Regional expands to meet behavioral health needs

Patients are often admitted to the unit from the emergency department or by a referral from a primary physician or another facility. Patients undergo an evaluation in the ER first to make sure they’re stabilized enough to be admitted. Then they are fully assessed by a mental health clinician, psychiatrist and the nursing staff; undergo individual and group counseling; and receive medications if needed.

“There’s daily communication between social workers and medical providers, and we work on putting together a plan to not just get you safely discharged but to succeed when they get out,” Gerber said. “They could go home from here or to a nursing facility.

That’s some times the biggest challenge — finding a safe placement for them — which could extend their stay here.”

Gerber said the adult behavioral health unit was staying full long before he arrived to the job seven months ago. He said it’s rare to have a couple of beds that stay open for long with the average stay time between 14 and 16 days. He expects the same will happen when phase two of the geriatric expansion project is complete early next year.

“I think it will take probably take six months to get up to capacity. We’ll have some new practices and we don’t want to fill up in the first couple of weeks. We’ll want to make sure everything is running properly first,” he said. “The need is there, but we want to expand intelligently to make sure we have the resources in place before we open a complete unit.”

Payer source is not a consideration when

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Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

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Lake Junaluska decorates for Christmas crew of more than 50 volunteers from the community decorated Lake Junaluska for the holiday season, including the Rose Walk, the Bethea Welcome Center, the gazebos along the walking trail, the Inspiration Point garden and more.

The decorating efforts were a collaboration between volunteers with the Junaluskans, a service and fundraising group at the lake, and Lake Junaluska staff.

“The volunteers are amazing and they do so much work,” said Roddy Ray, grounds and landscape manager. “It’s a time of year when staff and volunteers come together, and I love to see it because that’s what Christmas is all about — coming together.”

The Lake Junaluska maintenance and landscaping crews played a big part in decorating by providing the electrical needs for lights, and they add garlands and wreaths in hard-to-reach places like the light posts on the Rose Walk. Meanwhile, the entire landscaping department volunteered to help Suzanne Milner, who works in housekeeping and has been decorating Lake Junaluska’s interior spaces for the past six years. The community volunteers and staff members started coordinating decorating efforts as early as October so staff had time to schedule workers.

Community members said a key part of why they decorate the lake each year is for the visitors who experience them. Every December more than a thousand visitors come to Lake Junaluska for the annual Appalachian Christmas event, which includes three concerts — Handel’s Messiah, The Cockman Family and the Lake Junaluska Singers. Thousands more come for the Balsam Range Art of Music Festival the first weekend of December.

“I think it brightens up Christmas for

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All concerts are in Stuart Auditorium at Lake Junaluska.

• Handel's Messiah, featuring The Lake Junaluska Singers, a local choir and orchestra — 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 • Appalachian Christmas Craft Show — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, Harrell Center Auditorium • The Cockman Family in Concert — 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 • The Lake Junaluska Singers Christmas Concert — 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 For more information about Lake Junaluska, visit www.lakejunaluska.com.

people we don’t even know about, because people come to the lake that aren’t part of any other event,” said Nancy Coghill, a Lake Junaluska resident and volunteer for the past seven years. “Even if they just come to walk, I

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think seeing the decorations makes them feel like they are part of the celebration.”

Another volunteer pointed out the bonding effect Christmas decorating has on the community.

“I think a lot of people who move to the lake are looking to connect with other people and to have a strong sense of community,” said Debbie Stanton, a newly retired Lake Junaluska resident. “If they get involved in these types of things, they feel that they are contributing to the wider community and beautifying this already beautiful place.”

Phyllis Capponi is another Lake Junaluska resident who has been volunteering to help decorate at Christmas for 13 years. She said it has become an important tradition for her.

“I got involved with decorating before I even lived here,” said Capponi. “It’s really special to see people come together during this time of year and when all the decorations are up, it’s just gorgeous. We want more and more people to come enjoy them every year.”

Everyone is invited to come to Lake Junaluska for Appalachian Christmas Dec. 8-9.

Missed our Open House in August?

Want to shop for holiday gifts made by local artisans?

Join us to check out the space, get your holiday shop on – and sip hot chocolate by our cozy library fireplace. We’d love to show you all the cool new developments with the building since our grand opening and have you meet some of our team. We’ll have snacks + hot chocolate – and fun art projects for kiddos.

In our main studio, you’ll find jewelry, ornaments, LulaRoe Yoga Wear – and other homemade gifts from local vendors, including our in-house line of bath salts, lip balms, scented rollers, and gift baskets of all sizes.

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Bridge across Lake Junaluska Dam could reopen by 2019

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER Ka-chunk, ka-chunk … Ka-chunk, kachunk….

For over a century the sound of wheels on wood have greeted residents of and visitors to the Lake Junaluska Assembly alike as cars, trucks, people and pets cross the bridge over the Lake Junaluska Dam. But during that time, that traffic has led to the deterioration of the steel support beams that bear the load on the bridge, which was closed to vehicles over a year ago.

Initial reports of a $1.7 million price tag for refurbishment led some to believe that they’d heard the last faint echoes of car tires ka-chunking over the bridge’s wooden planks, like water over the dam or water under the bridge.

Anyone coming to that conclusion, however, probably doesn’t have full grasp of the strength and generosity of Lake Junaluska’s community, and the appreciation of the greater community at large.

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1416 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC A fundraising drive is underway to help refurbish the bridge over the Lake Junaluska Dam. Lake Junaluska photo

Make a donation Those who wish to make a donation towards the restoration of the Lake Junaluska bridge have several ways to do so: • By mail: PO Box 67, Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 • By phone: 828.454-6680 • Online: www.lakejunaluska.com/ support/bridge

owners, and we have also received gifts from people who use the lake for recreation and from guests who have visited Lake Junaluska from out of town.”

Property owners stepping up is hardly shocking in the tightknit community, but the most powerful demonstration of the impact of the Lake and the bridge on the region itself is that currently, almost half of the donations are from people who don’t live on the grounds of the Assembly.

“My family, my husband and I, we value the lake and we value its contribution to our community,” said Waynesville resident Melanie Threlkeld McConnell, who visits Lake Junaluska primarily for bicycling, canoeing and walking but also appreciates the more sublime spiritual aspects of the setting.

Threlkeld McConnell made a donation to the project because she says she wants to ensure the bridge returns to its former state.

“This is just a small contribution for something that’s given us great satisfaction,” she said.

Her appreciation of the bridge, according to Ewing, isn’t uncommon.

“For more than 100 years the bridge has been a gateway to Lake Junaluska, and peo-

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nomic and the spiritual goals of the Lake is evidenced by strong early successes in a fundraising drive currently underway.

“The outpouring of support that we have received is a testament to how important the bridge is to Haywood County,” said Ewing.

“They are giving because of what awaits them on the other side.”

Work has already begun, and Ewing said the project is proceeding without delay.

“Final plans including cost are anticipated to be known by the end of 2017, with the approval from the Board of Trustees in early March 2018,” Ewing said. “As previously approved, the gap between the actual cost and fundraising will be covered by service charges.”

“The outpouring of support that Local contractor RCF Construction has been selected we have received is a testament to perform the work. to how important the bridge is to “RCF has been a trusted partner with Lake Junaluska over Haywood County. They are giving many years, and we have great confidence in them to complete because of what awaits them on this restoration very well,” Ewing the other side.” said, adding that he anticipates the cost will come in lower than — Jack Ewing, Lake Junaluska Executive Director originally estimated.

Restoring it will still require a ple have a very emotional connection to tidy sum, but the Lake appears to be well on that,” said Ewing, who weeks ago its way to raising what it needs to put the announced his impending retirement and bridge on solid footing for the next 50 years.

“The charitable gifts we have received for will likely see his successor take the project across the finish line. “They are giving to restoring the bridge over the dam have far ensure that future generations have access exceeded our expectations. The support is to the renewal and transformation you expeincredible. We have received $670,000 in gifts and pledges from 241 different donors,” rience at Lake Junaluska, and so that people will be able to exercise and drive around Ewing said. “One hundred and twenty-nine the full loop for years to come.” of the donors are Lake Junaluska property

Come out early and do your Christmas shopping!

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

The bridge itself is a historic landmark, but also serves as an integral part of the facility’s walking trail and allows for leisurely drives completely around the tiny mountain lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

More so, it’s been a fixture since the very beginning of the Assembly, which sprung up around the 200-acre human-made lake created by the damming of Richland Creek around 1913.

The United Methodist Church’s Southeastern Jurisdiction took ownership of the site in 1948, and in the ‘50s the World Methodist Council relocated its headquarters there.

Despite being its own community complete with more than 800 residences and a population estimated at 2,700, Lake Junaluska isn’t a freestanding municipality and technically is part of the county; today, it’s governed by the Lake Junaluska Assembly Board of Trustees of The United Methodist Church.

Executive Director Jack Ewing said that not long after his tenure there began in 2011, the Southeastern Jurisdiction cut funding to the Assembly, to the tune of about $1 million per year.

Ewing looked at the cut as an opportunity to make the Lake leaner and meaner financially; since 2011, he’s led the Lake towards self-sufficiency as a conference and retreat center while preserving the Lake’s mission to be a place of Christian hospitality, renewal and transformation.

That the bridge is central to both the eco-

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Jackson ponders pool repairs

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER he Sylva pool saw $100,000 in repairs before opening this summer, but more work is on the way to get the facility up to snuff for the years to come.

During their Nov. 9 meeting, Sylva commissioners voted to spend $86,500 on a list of repairs to be done prior to the pool’s Memorial Day opening, with the county committed to reimburse half of that cost.

The work will include repairing ladders and pool lights, replacing roofs on the fiberglass building and improving the changing room by adding four floor drains and repainting the floors with non-slip epoxy. But the most expensive item on the list is replacement of the bathroom partitions and associated hardware, estimated to cost $31,000.

“Long-term it looks like we need to be putting some money into a fund for future repairs for the pool, because my gosh, a couple of partitions are $31,000,” said Commissioner David Nestler.

“They’re not marble, are they?” joked Mayor Lynda Sossamon.

“You all probably wouldn’t agree with me that we should fill it up and raise tomatoes instead,” Commissioner Harold Hensley shot back.

Commissioners nevertheless voted unanimously to approve the funds, but pool planning is likely to be a discussion that will continue to circulate in both city and county government.

This round of pool repairs stems from a pair of reports the county commissioned from engineer Victor Lofquist on the outdoor pools in Sylva and Cashiers. The reports examine the pools’ current state and conclude with a prioritized plan for repairs over the coming years, as well as an estimate of the

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

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average annual cost of pool repairs.

The plan for the Sylva pool divides the list of needed repairs into three phases, with a total estimated cost between $166,350 and $229,350.

However, the report says, Sylva shouldn’t just complete those repairs and then figure itself to be done for a while. A pool is full of components that have a limited lifespan and eventually need to be replaced — some of those replacements are $30 fixes, while others figure in the thousands. Lofquist’s report

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Sylva’s commissioners have approved $86,500 in repairs to the city pool to be completed before the summer season.

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lists every component in the pool that eventually requires replacement, estimating that component’s yearly cost based on its approximate price and expected lifespan.

In total, Lofquist estimated that replacing parts in Sylva’s main pool and wading pool would cost a combined $38,300 annually, in today’s dollars.

“You could put that aside on an annual basis, or as we did last year, we did a big project where we replaced the plaster,” Lofquist told the Jackson County

Commissioners during a September work session. “But we wanted to put this together just to give you an idea of what the longterm cost was on an annual basis.”

County commissioners are still grappling with how best to address the needs at the Cashiers pool, however. Built in 1982, many features of the pool don’t comply with current regulations. While pools built before 1993 don’t have to conform to these standards, that exemption disappears if the pool is remodeled — a definition that differs from that of “repair.”

“This distinction is important to note when planning any work on the Cashiers Community Swimming

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The Sylva pool sits empty as replastering commences in spring 2017. Holly Kays photo

The plan for the Sylva pool divides the list of needed repairs into three phases, with a total estimated cost between $166,350 and $229,350.

U.S. Cellular® was ranked “Highest Network Quality Performance among Wireless Cell Phone Users in the North Central Region” by J.D. Power.

Things we want you to know: U.S. Cellular received the highest numerical score in the North Central region in the J.D. Power 2016 V2, 2017 V1 (tie) and 2017 V2 (tie) U.S. Wireless Network Quality Performance Studies.

2017 Volume 2 study based on 35,105 total responses from 4 providers, measuring the network quality experienced by customers with wireless carriers, surveyed January–June 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. New consumer or small business (20 lines or less) port-in or upgrade eligibility and Total Plan with Unlimited Data or Unlimited Data Plus required. Purchase of device via 0% APR 30-mo. Retail Installment Contract, credit approval, qualifying Smartphone turn-in (for free Samsung Galaxy S8 promotional pricing) and Device Protection+ required. Tax due at sale. A Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee applies; this is not a tax or government required charge. Additional fees, taxes, terms, conditions and coverage areas may apply and vary by plan, service and phone. Offers valid at participating locations only and cannot be combined. See store or uscellular.com for details. Minimum monthly price of Device Protection+ is $9.99 per Smartphone. A service fee/deductible per approved claim applies. You may cancel anytime. Property insurance is underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida and provided under a Master Policy issued to U.S. Cellular. You will be the certificate holder on U.S. Cellular’s Master Policy for loss/theft benefits. Service Contract Obligor is Federal Warranty Service Corporation in all states except CA (Sureway, Inc.) and OK (Assurant Service Protection, Inc.). Limitations and exclusions apply. Ask an associate for more details. Free Samsung Galaxy S8 Offer With Smartphone Turn-In: Smartphone must power on and cannot be pin locked. Device must be in fully functional working condition without any liquid damage or broken components, including, but not limited to, a cracked display or housing. Qualifying Turn-In Devices Include: iPhone 6 or better, Samsung Galaxy S® 6 or better, Note 5, LG G6,™ LG V20 and LG V30. Offer: Samsung Galaxy S8: Regular price $738 or $24.60/mo., bill credit amount is $21.27/mo.; Samsung Galaxy S7: Regular price $574.80 or $19.16/mo., bill credit amount is $15.83/mo. (while supplies last). Customer will receive a $100 U.S. Cellular Promotional Card at the point of sale; balance comes via monthly bill credit on a 30-mo. Retail Installment Contract; 0% APR. Bill credit applied within three bill cycles and ends when balance is paid. Line must remain in good standing. In the event of cancellation of service, customer will be responsible for the entire Retail Installment Contract balance. Available on new line activations. The early-upgrade program is not available with this offer. $100 U.S. Cellular Promotional Card given at point of sale or mailed with device via direct fulfillment orders. Promotional Card issued by MetaBank,® Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Valid only for purchases at U.S. Cellular stores and uscellular.com. Must be used by expiration date shown on card. Kansas Customers: In areas in which U.S. Cellular receives support from the Federal Universal Service Fund, all reasonable requests for service must be met. Unresolved questions concerning services availability can be directed to the Kansas Corporation Commission Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at 1-800-662-0027. Limited-time offer. Trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners. ©2017 U.S. Cellular

Smoky Mountain News

“This is potentially a more complicated conversation,” Adams said. “There is an option you gut it out and build a pool. At some point it becomes a better value to do that.”

Unlike with the Sylva pool, the county has no cost share agreement in place to maintain the Cashiers pool, though it hopes to work one out with the Cashiers Valley Community Council, Inc., from which the county leases the land the pool is on. That, coupled with the high estimated cost spurring the need to make decisions as to how much the county should invest in a 35-year-old pool, will push back the timeline of repairs in Cashiers.

While repairs to the Cashiers pool won’t happen in time for the summer 2018 season, the pool will still open for the season.

“Sounds like we’ve got a lot of work ahead of us,” said Commissioner Brian McMahan.

Requires Total Plan with Unlimited Data, new customer port-in or upgrade eligibility, credit approval, Device Protection+ and qualified Smartphone turn-in for Samsung Galaxy S8. Comes via monthly bill credit on a 30-month Retail Installment Contract plus a $100 U.S. Cellular® Promotional Card. Taxes, fees and additional restrictions apply.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Pool since several aspects of the facility do not meet current public swimming pool regulations,” Lofquist’s report on the Cashiers pool reads.

The dimensions of the diving well, the pool shell hydraulic system, flow meter, chemical storage area and many other pool characteristics are out of compliance with current standards.

“I’m just laughing because that’s the whole pool,” County Manager Don Adams said as Lofquist ran down the list during the September work session.

As with the Sylva pool, Lofquist’s report divides the work to be done into three phases, with the first phase estimated to cost $76,200. The entire project is ballparked between $481,000 and $539,000. The estimated annual cost of routine repairs, meanwhile, is figured at $16,900.

Commissioners balked at the numbers when presented with them in September, with Adams suggesting that they think about whether, with a repair price tag of half a million dollars, they’d rather consider a new pool instead.

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Shooting range sound spurs complaint

The shooting range at Southwestern Community College trains law enforcement officers from across the region, but some neighbors aren’t happy with the noise it produces. Donated photo

Sound abatement under discussion for SCC range

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OPTIONS FOR ABATEMENT

During the Nov. 14 meeting, McMahan encouraged SCC to put together its preferred plan for mitigation, which could then be discussed with commissioners, and County Manager Don Adams suggested that the county plan for a phased approach — installing the berm, trees and new trap now, for example, and outlining a phase two plan if that doesn’t work.

“I would think that what we’d probably want to do is start with the minimal first,” McMahan agreed in a follow-up interview.

“Let’s go in and reconstruct the berm, make sure the berm is like it’s supposed to be, plant some shrubbery and trees, maybe then consider putting in that backstop. Those things alone might make a huge difference.”

Commissioner Ron Mau, meanwhile, was a bit more skeptical about the potential impact of those measures. He’s heard that roofs and baffles work very well, and while he understands that approach might end up being too expensive, he’s interested in visiting an existing structure to see how well it works.

“I guess I have my doubts about the vegetation option,” he said in a follow-up interview. “Just how much does it abate the sound if you plant more trees and raise the berms?”

Mau looks forward to getting some cost estimates for each of the possible options and exploring whether any grant funding might be available.

Any mitigation would be funded through next year’s budget, beginning July 1.

Commissioners typically begin budget planning in January, so it’s unlikely any particulars will be nailed down until late winter or 17 early spring.

Smoky Mountain News

While commissioners agree that the county should do something about the noise, what exactly that something will be remains to be seen.

Marc Boberg, SCC’s director of facility services and operations, presented a variety of options during the Nov. 14 meeting, ranging from installing suppressors on weapons to building a roof to contain the sound. Each option would have a different impact on noise level, officer training and budget.

Shooting ranges produce noise in two ways, Boberg explained. There’s the sound that occurs when the bullet fires, and the one that happens when it hits its target. Different mitigation techniques would address different noise sources.

“Because of the distances they happen very quickly, so you may not be able to distinguish between the two,” he said.

To attack sound emanating from the gun

itself, suppressors would be the obvious choice.

But that’s not likely to be a good fit for this situation. Suppressors increase wear and tear on the gun, meaning that each training weapon would have a shorter useful life; they also take away from the real-world understanding officers are supposed to derive from their training.

“You do on the range what you may have to do in real life,” McMahan said. “So the last thing we want is people trying to put suppressors on and doing all the stuff that isn’t natural and is something they wouldn’t be doing in the course of duty on an average day.”

The other end of the spectrum would be constructing a roof over the shooting range to keep sound waves more contained. Such construction would likely have a significant impact on the noise level near the range, but it would also be the most expensive of the options available.

In discussion, some commissioners seemed to favor exploring a combination of less intensive mitigation options. Installing a higher berm around the range’s perimeter, Boberg said, could have a significant impact. The existing berm is pretty small, about 6 or 7 feet from the 25-meter firing line with no berm at the 50meter line. Building that berm higher could go

AN ONGOING DISCUSSION Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ocated behind the Tuckaseigee Water and Sewer Authority treatment plant off North River Road, Southwestern Community College’s shooting range is the go-to training ground for law enforcement officers across the region.

But lately people living around the range have been complaining about the noise produced when thousands of rounds are fired in a single day.

“They all say to me, ‘Close the range,’” said Commission Chairman Brian McMahan, referring to the unsigned text messages he’s been receiving on the subject. One neighbor also met with him in person.

Commissioners and SCC officials met during a Nov. 14 commissioners work session to discuss the issue, but McMahan and his fellow board members made it clear that the discussion was about sound abatement only — shutting down the range is not an option.

“We live in a very troubling time,” McMahan said. “A little more than a week ago, a deranged psychotic person walked into a church in Texas and massacred 26 people, some of them little kids. That’s the world we live in unfortunately, and these guys in law enforcement have to face that every single day. That could be right here in Jackson County, and I support our law enforcement 100 percent. They need a place to train, and as far as I am concerned I am not in favor of shutting the range down.”

In a follow-up interview, McMahan said that he’s “not trying to be insensitive to the noise” and wants to see the county, which owns the property and leases it to SCC, “be good neighbors and do what we can to build new sound buffers.” However, he pointed

out, most if not all of the people complaining moved to the area knowing that an active shooting range was in the neighborhood.

“Let’s not look at shutting it down, period.

That’s not an option, but look at how can we keep the quality that we’ve got, but also is there means or measures that we can do to maybe become a better neighbor,” said Commissioner Mickey Luker at the Nov. 14 meeting.

While Commissioner Boyce Deitz also stated he would not support shutting the range down, he expressed strong sympathy with those who have to hear the shooting day in and day out.

“I think we at least need to be sensitive,” he said. “I have a neighbor who lives in Nashville, Tennessee, and he comes home about every two months. I know when he’s home because we’ll be sitting there eating supper and it’s bam-bam-bam-bam for an hour, and it’s not pleasant.”

The shooting range at Southwestern Community College has been in the news quite a bit over the past few years, but not because of noise.

In 2014, testing revealed that accumulated lead deposits from continuous shooting over the years had resulted in substantial contamination of soil on the range. The discovery resulted in multiple rounds of testing, studies and discussions as to what should be done to rectify the situation.

However, it appears that SCC is now on the tail end of dealing with those issues.

In 2016, SCC paid the contractor Containment Control, Inc., $171,400 to remove, treat and dispose of 350 tons of contaminated soil at the site.

In May, four monitoring wells were installed to find out whether lead contamination was affecting the groundwater, and by extension the nearby Tuckasegee River.

Three of the monitoring wells, which cost about $14,000 to install, did not detect any lead at all, while the fourth was “well within the state standards,” according to a May 12 email from Marc Boberg, the college’s director of facilities services and operations. None of the wells detected polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

The college still has to install a soil cap and build a sediment pond but is waiting on final recommendations from the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality to move forward. Once the DEQ approves a final solution, SCC will present the plan to county commissioners.

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Lead remediation wrapping up

a long way toward breaking up sound waves.

Planting trees on top of the berm, Boberg said, would reduce the noise even more. By combining those measures with a new lead catcher, made of a material that would produce a softer sound on impact than the one currently in place, the sound level would go down significantly.

“In most cases, those systems will reduce it 20, 25, 30 percent, depending on angles and where you’re at,” he said. “It really does depend on what direction you’re at versus the firing line.”

If those measures don’t reduce the sound enough, he said, there are other options. A baffling system, soundproof walls like those installed along interstate highways and roofing are all possibilities. However, those would all be significantly more costly than building up the berms, planting trees and replacing the lead catcher, and it would be important to design such structures in a way that doesn’t take away from what the shooting range is there to accomplish.

“If you start putting pillars in the middle of the range, it then limits the ability to do the training they have been doing,” Boberg said.

And if the installation were to reduce the number of lanes available, trainees would need to shoot longer into the night to get the same job done.

news

Jackson commissioners OK 185-foot radio tower Nearby residents express opposition; tower to improve emergency services in Cullowhee

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER unanimous vote from the Jackson County commissioners will allow construction of a 185-foot radio tower in Cullowhee to move forward, but the decision came after vocal opposition from six of the seven county residents who spoke at a 3 p.m. public hearing on Monday, Nov. 27.

“What is a homeowner to do other than stand here and voice my objection and plead with y’all to consider what this is going to do to our property values, being directly located across the street?” said Cheryl Ruderman, who owns property adjacent to the site of the proposed tower. “We basically now have an unusable lot of land. That’s how I feel about it.”

The tower, which Western Carolina University hopes to build atop 3,680-foot Brown Mountain, would serve to broadcast the campus radio station from a wider-ranging frequency than the station’s current home on 90.5 FM. The university applied for a switch to 98.3 FM more than a decade ago, and when it received word from the Federal Communications Commission in 2015 that it would receive the frequency, leadership set about deciding what to do.

After examining the options, the university decided that building a new tower and access road was too expensive to warrant the benefit to be gained. But as it announced its intention to abandon plans for a new tower, it began to hear from entities that were disappointed by the news.

“When we heard of the other needs that a taller tower could meet, we thought we’d come to you and see what you thought,” Mike Byers, WCU’s vice chancellor for administration and finance, told commissioners Nov. 27. “Emergency services will be on the tower — if it’s constructed — at no cost, because that’s the greatest greater good that comes from this property.”

Internet, cellular and television station antennae could also co-locate on a 185-foot tower, though no agreements are yet in place with providers for any of those services. The project will likely cost about $500,000.

County ordinance would allow a maximum tower height of less than 100 feet in the location proposed, unless WCU went through the conditional use permit process. The CUP process is a rigorous one, and it would take time — something WCU doesn’t have. The FCC requires that broadcast on the 98.3 FM frequency begin by the end of May. Otherwise, WCU will lose its rights to that frequency.

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

A

OPPOSITION TO CONSTRUCTION The shortening timeline led WCU to ask 18 that commissioners waive several require-

Susan Cooper, whose property adjoins Brown Mountain, asks commissioners not to allow the tower. Holly Kays photo

“When we heard of the other needs that a taller tower could meet, we thought we’d come to you and see what you thought. Emergency services will be on the tower — if it’s constructed — at no cost, because that’s the greatest greater good that comes from this property.”

— Mike Byers, WCU vice chancellor for administration and finance

ments listed in the wireless communications ordinance, including the maximum tower height, the conditional use process, the $5,000 application fee, the requirement that the tower not be visible from the road and the requirement that the tower be built as a monopole rather than as a lattice structure.

No public hearing or notice to adjacent property owners is required for commissioners to grant such a waiver. However, commissioners decided during their Nov. 14 work session to notify property owners and hold a public hearing anyway, though the Nov. 27 public hearing was held in the afternoon rather than in the evening as is typical and scheduled with less notice than would otherwise be required.

“The process doesn’t require a public hearing, but we felt that we at least at the bare minimum should send the adjacent property owners a letter and let you folks know what’s going on that we’re considering this waiver,” said Chairman Brian McMahan.

However, multiple people expressed their dissatisfaction with the timeframe as part of their comments.

“I just received this letter Saturday before Thanksgiving. I happened to be up here with my children for Thanksgiving, which is the

only reason I received this letter in time to come to this meeting,” Ruderman said.

Roy Burnette, a Sylva resident who owns the WRGC and WHBN radio stations in Sylva and Bryson City, also spoke to the ramped-up timeline and questioned whether all the waivers requested were really necessary.

“I feel the university can have their FM radio station on the air before their construction permit expires, and if the university desires to construct a cell phone tower then the regulations of this ordinance can be satisfied because there will be no May 2018 deadline,” he said.

Other reasons to oppose the cell tower hinged primarily on concerns about dropping property values and effects of cell tower radiation.

“What’s going to happen to our property values? Who’s going to buy my house if I put it up for sale and I have a cell tower up there?” asked Susan Cooper, whose property abuts Brown Mountain.

Cooper also expressed concern about the environmental impacts of tower construction.

“It devastates me to think that this pristine area is going to be taken up just to meet a deadline for May of 2018,” she said. “It seems like a total waste of money.”

Several commenters brought up the issue of radiation, questioning the health impacts of living near a cell tower.

“Radiation is a concern,” said area resident Jon Phillips. “The last study was done 21 years ago. I wonder if there’s been a study on how much radiation is coming off the equipment up there.”

“This is obviously a big, big impact to our resale value, but that’s secondary. After homeschooling kids for years we have to think about can we not do that safely,” agreed Michael Evans, who lives about 400 yards from the site of the proposed tower.

“There are families somewhere between 500 and 600 feet of this thing, with children, dogs and animals, and I’m just concerned about that,” added Mel Livernois, who lives about 2,500 feet from the site.

Research on the connection between cell phone towers and cancer is limited, according to an article from the American Cancer Society, but cell phone towers are not known to have any health effects.

“Some people have expressed concern that living, working or going to school near a cell phone tower might increase the risk of cancer or other health problems,” reads the article, which is available at www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/cellular-phone-towers.html. “At this time, there is very little evidence to support this idea. In theory, there are some important points that would argue against cellular phone towers being able to cause cancer.”

REASONS FOR A “YES” VOTE Granting the waiver required that commissioners find that the request is justified and necessary to prevent

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“unnecessary hardship” and that it would have no significant effect on the health, safety and welfare of the county, its residents, property owners or service providers.

“I feel like we have discussed those and we made those conclusions from our discussion,” said Commissioner Mickey Luker, referring to the Nov. 14 work session. “My district, that’s going to be one of the districts most vastly impacted by this for residents not able to have wireless communications and not able to have cell phone coverage, but most importantly the thing that stuck out that I was an advocate for in the beginning was safety.”

Radio communications in that area are exceedingly limited, the county’s Emergency Management Director Tod Dillard said, and building the tower would help “immensely.”

While public comment was overwhelmingly anti-tower, one area resident spoke to that need in her comments.

Edith Lyons, who lives at the end of White Rock Road off of Cullowhee Mountain Road, said that it’s not unusual for the telephone line to go out for days at a time, and there’s no cell service to be had.

“We have to drive two-and-a-half miles down a gravel road to try to use a cell phone. I appreciate the young woman’s concern about the property and the radiation,” she said of Cooper’s comments, “but I’m also concerned about the 13 families that live on White Rock Road and many others up Cullowhee Mountain that don’t have cell service.”

Luker moved to grant WCU’s request, with the group of neighbors who’d come for the meeting leaving before commissioners launched into the final discussion that resulted in a unanimous yes vote.

“What’s going to happen to our property values?

Who’s going to buy my house if I put it up for sale and I have a cell tower up there?”

— Susan Cooper, property owner

175 Old Clyde Rd. Waynesville (828) 456-3993

Smoky Mountain News

The neighbors didn’t leave, however, instead standing together talking outside the boardroom. When Byers exited following the meeting’s adjournment, he was met with a flurry of questions as to why the tower had to be in that spot, and not somewhere further into the 9-acre property owned by the Western Carolina University Endowment Fund; why the tower had to be so high; and whether, were he in their shoes, he’d want such a structure in his backyard.

Cell towers and radio towers are often the objects of such controversy, with everyone wanting access to cellular, internet and emergency services but nobody wanting to see the structures required to broadcast these signals out their back window.

Jackson County adopted a rewrite of its wireless communications ordinance in 2015 to address these issues, passing an updated version of the ordinance in 2016.

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Ambassador to speak at annual dinner Former United Nations Ambassador John Bolton will headline the 25th Annual Charles Taylor Christmas Dinner, which will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Expo Center at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Asheville.

Bolton has served in several Republican administrations, and was appointed Ambassador to the United Nations by President George W. Bush. He also served as under secretary of state for arms control and international security. Bolton was an assistant to Secretary of State James Baker and was a protégé of conservative North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms.

Also appearing will be North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore. Former Congressman Taylor has praised both the North Carolina State House, Senate and members of the Council of State for their work in moving North Carolina forward.

The program will include updates from federal, state and local elected officials on important political issues.

A separate, private reception begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Blue Ridge Room. Tickets for the Christmas dinner are $60 per person. Tickets for the private reception to meet the guest speakers are $150 per person and include admission to the dinner.

Checks should be made out to “Charles Taylor Christmas Dinner” and mailed to:

P.O. Box 7587, Asheville, NC 28802. In order to guarantee a seat at the dinner, tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information, contact Trish Smothers at 828.243.2187 or tasmothers@yahoo.com.

Maggie holds annexation hearing The Maggie Valley Board of Aldermen will conduct a public hearing on the question of annexing 509 Campbell Creek Road at 6 p.m. Dec. 11, at town hall. Oral or written comments will be accepted.

Swain Genealogy Society to hold holiday auction The Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society Holiday Party and Silent Auction will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center, 45 East Ridge Drive, Bryson City.

The evening will include music, fun and holiday shopping. Silent auction items include a Cataloochee Ski package for two, an Ancestry World Explorer membership with DNA kit, a My Heritage membership, a My Heritage DNA Kit, Whitewater LTD

rafting tickets for two, a subscription to the Smoky Mountain Times, a subscription to Smoky Mountain Living, a Swain County Heritage Book and much more.

Entertainment will be provided by Jesse Stephens and Friends doing live mountain music. Auction proceeds will go to offset operating expenses for the Society and to purchase needed equipment.

Auction items will be accepted through the morning of Dec. 7 and may be dropped off 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday at the SCGHS Library, 200 Main Street, Bryson City.

828.488.2932.

Candidate to host net neutrality rally Phillip Price, a candidate for the Congressional 11th District, is hosting the Rally in Support of Net Neutrality Rules at 12:30 p.m. Dec. 7, at Vance Monument in Asheville.

Supporters are encouraged to bring a sign in support of net neutrality rules. Net neutrality is the basic principle that prevents big internet providers from charging extra fees, engaging in censorship or controlling what we see and do on the web by throttling websites, apps and online services.

For more information, contact Michelle Price at 828.659.7000 or phillip@price4wnc.com.

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Meet Charlotte Figi.

At just 3 months old, she experienced her first seizure, an experience that would send her family on a path that would change the world. Charlotte was suffering from 300 grand mal seizures per week when they met the Stanley Brothers, who had been developing proprietary hemp genetics. Together they created a hemp oil extract that was introduced into Charlotte’s diet in hopes of providing her relief.

Charlotte didn’t have a single seizure during the first seven days of treatment, which was a clear sign that the Figis had stumbled onto something extraordinary.

Sarge’s photo contest Sarge’s Pet Photo Contest is back and it’s a holiday theme. Enter printed photos of your pets in costume or in a fall/winter holiday setting.

The deadline for entries is not until Jan. 13, 2018. Registration forms can be picked up at Sarge’s adoption center or at www.sargeanimals.org. Fee will be $15 per photo with proceeds helping to fund medical costs and the food supply for Sarge’s rescued dogs and cats.

Prizes will be awarded for the best photos in six categories: dog, puppy, cat, kitten, Sarge’s adoption and super shooter (someone who has previously won first place in a prior Sarge’s contest). Winners will be notified and an awards ceremony will be held in downtown Waynesville.

For the contest, photo prints should be unframed, not matted and printed on photography paper 4”x6” to 8”x10.” Amateur photographers only with limited electronic alterations/enhancements to the photos. Photos cannot be returned and electronic submissions cannot be accepted.

Mail photos, entry forms and check to SARF, P.O. Box 854, Waynesville, NC 28786 or deliver to the adoption center at 256 Industrial Park Drive in Waynesville.

Canton Senior Center will hold a fundraiser from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Canton Senior Center, 1 Pigeon Street.

Coffee and donuts will be sold from 8 to 11 a.m. and hot dogs, chips and drinks will be sold from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Call 828.648.8173.

Haywood Community College’s Small Business Center and regional agribusiness partners will hold a free Regional Agribusiness Summit from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the HCC Auditorium.

The one-day, multi-track summit is designed for the specific needs of current and prospective agribusinesses including farmers, value-added processors, beverage manufacturers, food service businesses and more.

“The great thing about this summit is the number of resource providers that will be present in one place. Whether someone has a question related to the growing side or the business side of things, there will be someone present to answer those questions,” explains Russ Harris, Southwestern Commission Regional Planner.

Those in attendance will enjoy a powerful keynote session and lunch provided by the Rural Food Business Assistance Project. The Opening Session, Innovation in Agriculture: the Disruptor Economy, will be presented by Kaleb Rathbone, Mountain Research Station Research Operations Manager. The Lunch Keynote will feature Collaboration in Agribusiness: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly with a speakers’ panel facilitated

by Tina Masciarelli, Buy Haywood Project Coordinator.

Visit SBC.Haywood.edu or call 828.627.4512 to register.

Jackson Genealogy Society holiday dinner The Jackson County Genealogical Society will host its annual meeting and Christmas potluck supper at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the Community Room at the Jackson County Library.

The program will be a Christmas story by John Parris, told by Howard Allman. The annual JCGS awards will be presented, and JCGS officers for next year will be installed. All Society members and guests, as well as anyone interested in joining, are invited to attend and bring a covered dish and serving utensil. The Society will provide beverages and paper products.

The evening will also provide an opportunity to pay 2018 dues and purchase JCGS publications, including “Jackson County Heritage Vol. I,” which is on sale for $50 while supplies last.

828.631.2646 or email jacksoncountygenealogy@gmail.com.

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Smoky Mountain News

HCC to hold regional Agribusiness Summit

Visit cwhemp.com for more info.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Canton Seniors to hold fundraiser

Today she is a nine year old who is thriving and enjoying life. The Stanley brothers assure consumers that the oil maintains a 30:1 ratio of CBD to THC. THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” effect in marijuana. Thanks to Charlotte’s Web, Charlotte can now live life like a normal child. She is able to feed herself and sleep through the night. Her autistic symptoms have virtually disappeared. As such, her mind is clear, and her attention is focused. Her brain is recovering, and she is happy.

21

news

Appalachian Christmas DECEMBER 8-9

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Awaken the spirit of Christmas with a weekend of festive live music and local artistry.

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FRIDAY, DEC. 8:

• Handel’s Messiah Concert – 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 9: • Craft Show – 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

• The Cockman Family Concert – 2 p.m.

• Lake Junaluska Singers Christmas Concert – 7:30 p.m.

Reserved seating: $23 General admission seating: $18 lakejunaluska.com/christmas 800-222-4930

Education Haywood Schools foundation awards $38,000 in grants

Students pictured are the first members of the Student Lighthouse Team at Iotla Valley Elementary School in Macon County.

These students will be serving as representatives for their fellow classmates and will help make decisions about the school and any changes to be implemented.

Donated photo

Register for spring classes at HCC Spring registration is happening now through Dec. 1 at Haywood Community College.

According to collegeboard.org, occupations with the most job openings for those who hold an associate degree include registered nurses, nurse aides, computer support specialists, cosmetologists, automotive service technicians and mechanics, and preschool teachers.

In addition to these programs, students come to HCC for unique programs such as fish and wildlife management technology, forest management technology and professional crafts, including clay, fiber, jewelry and wood.

For more information about any of HCC’s programs of study or registration, call 828.627.4500 or visit haywood.edu.

HCA coaches complete training Shanna Hall and Helen Mary Cowart, two Bridge Learning Center Academic coaches at Haywood Christian Academy, were able to complete specialized training at the Key Learning Center of Carolina Day School through professional development funds provided through the school.

The Key Learning Center is a training facility accredited through IMSLEC to train professionals in the Orton-Gillingham Multisensory Structured Language Approach. Hall and Cowart are now CALP certified and are working toward the IMSLEC Teaching Level requirements for the KLC Associate Level Multisensory Structured Language Education — The Orton-Gillingham Approach. They will continue to pursue the advanced level certification.

Students inducted into New Century Scholars Forty-six seventh-graders from Jackson, Macon and Swain counties were inducted into the New Century Scholars program on Monday, Nov. 6, during a ceremony held at Southwestern Community College’s Jackson Campus.

Fifteen seventh-graders from Jackson County, 15 from Macon County and 16 from Swain County

Smoky Mountain News

became New Century Scholars, a program that was established in 1995 by the late Dr. Charles McConnell, superintendent for Jackson County Schools at the time and Dr. Barry Russell, thenSCC president. The program, funded solely by private gifts, provides last-dollar tuition assistance at SCC. The program is designed to improve academic readiness, bolster student persistence toward high school graduation and increase the college attendance rate.

New Century Scholars are expected to participate in community service activities, develop leadership skills, explore potential career options and prepare for success in college.

HCC Professional Crafts Holiday Sale Haywood Community College’s Professional Crafts programs will host a holiday craft sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, in the Mary Cornwell Gallery of the Creative Arts Building.

There will be a special preview from 5 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 7 with refreshments and a chance to meet the students.

The sale will feature work by full-time students in fiber arts, jewelry, pottery and woodworking.

Throughout Friday’s sale, students will demonstrate on the pottery wheel, as well as hand-weaving, spinning and spoon carving.

DeGraffenreid receives leadership award Pamela DeGraffenreid, director of the Western Carolina University Bookstore and vice chair of the University of North Carolina System’s Staff Assembly, is the 2017 recipient of the Thomas W. Ross Visionary Leader Award.

The award was created last year to honor UNC President Emeritus Thomas W. Ross.

DeGraffenreid, former chair of WCU’s Staff Senate, becomes only the second recipient of the award, which is presented to a UNC Staff Assembly delegate who has proven to be an exemplary leader who models the way for others to follow and inspires a shared vision on his or her campus, throughout Staff Assembly and across the UNC system.

Haywood County Schools Foundation gave 160 grants to teachers totaling $38,877 for the 201718 school year.

This year, grants were sponsored by Evergreen Packaging, First Citizens Banks, QuickDraw, the Arc of Haywood County, and the Haywood County Schools Foundation. The grants fund resources for teachers and staff to enrich the learning experience for students.

“Today is always an inspirational day because we are able to recognize and reward some of the most innovative teachers from all across our county,” Haywood County Schools Foundation Executive Director Jenny Wood Valliere said. “These are the teachers who are ensuring that Haywood County Schools stays in the top 10 percent of school districts in the state.”

For more information about funding classroom projects, contact Wood Valliere at 828.456.2400.

WCU physical therapy grads pass exam The most recent graduates from Western Carolina University’s doctoral program in physical therapy have recorded a “four-peat” of sorts by being the fourth straight physical therapy class from WCU to have a 100 percent pass rate on their national licensing exam.

WCU’s physical therapy faculty found out recently that all 29 program graduates who received their diplomas after last spring semester passed the National Physical Therapy Exam, a requirement to become licensed physical therapists. They follow in the footsteps of the combined total of 90 graduates from the 2014, 2015 and 2016 classes who accomplished the same thing.

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Parts City Auto Parts donates to SCC Parts City Auto Parts of Franklin recently donated equipment to Southwestern Community College’s automotive systems technology program.

“We are so grateful to Parts City and the other businesses in our community that keep our program up-to-date through their in-kind donations of parts and equipment,” said David Myers, SCC’s automotive systems technology program coordinator.

Darren Chastain of Parts City donated an OTC battery/alternator tester and an OTC Minutemen Plus Digital Tester. Parts City has also donated items in the past to SCC’s automotive program at Franklin High School.

For more information about SCC’s automotive program, contact Myers at 828.339.4237 or d_myers@southwesterncc.edu.

Scholarship luncheon The Haywood Community College Foundation, along with the financial aid office, recently held a Scholarship Luncheon at the Canton Armory as a way to recognize donors and allow student recipients to meet those who generously give.

In 2016-17, 281 students were awarded over $340,000. Scholarships are available for curriculum, workforce continuing education, high school equivalency, and college & career readiness students.

Haywood Regional Medical Center Volunteers scholarship was awarded to Kassadi Kelley.

“This scholarship will allow me to study more and work less. For this blessing and scholarship, I can’t thank you enough. It means so much to me,” Kelley said.

For more information about the HCC Foundation or how to become a donor, contact Pam Hardin at 828.627.4544 or pahardin@haywood.edu.

HCC students donate to REACH The Haywood Community College Student Association of Medical Assistants donated items to REACH of Haywood County, Inc. as part of a community service project earlier this fall.

REACH serves survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Collections for the donation began in the spring.

Buffy Queen, community educator, came on campus to collect the donations.

She addressed the students and told them signs to watch for when they begin working with patients in the field.

For more information about HCC’s medical assisting program, visit haywood.edu or call 828.627.4658.

24

Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

Vision for ‘Art of Music Festival’ is attainable t’s inspiring when you come across people who have both a vision and the wherewithal to turn it into reality. It makes me want to climb on board with them and be a part of that success. That’s what I see happening with local bluegrass supergroup Balsam Range and its “Art of Music Festival.”

The second “Art of Music Festival” is this weekend in Haywood County, starting with a sold-out show Thursday at Cataloochee Ranch and then two nights of fantastic and diverse talent at Lake Junaluska’s Stuart Auditorium. The shows feature everything from straight-up bluegrass to Americana singersongwriters to the Atlanta Pops playing with Balsam Range.

Our newspaper is one of the sponsors of the “Art of Music Festival” and we are excited about its future. That initial spark was ignited in me after a conversation this past summer with Balsam Range fiddler Buddy Melton and mandolinist Darren Nicholson. That’s when I first got wind of what the band and the festival’s other supporters hope to turn this into.

In my eyes, it could be a game-changer for Haywood County if enough people visualize the potential and join in to get there.

One of the first strategic decisions was choosing a date for the festival. As Melton’s quote at the top of this story shows, the band wanted to create something that would benefit

I

Haywood County culturally and economically. The first weekend in December is traditionally one of the slowest of the year in terms of out-of-town visitors staying at local hotels and shopping in stores and eating out.

So to have the most economic impact, that was the weekend the band chose. And it worked.

“Last year, we had around 1,500 attendees Friday night and 1,700 Saturday night,” Melton told The Smoky Mountain News. “Of those, a good 40 percent were from out of town. They stayed in lodging, ate out, Editor had to get gas, all that plays into it — well over $400,000 of economic stimulus for the county.”

Melton said people were here from such distant states as Michigan, California and Maine. That’s exactly what this region needs in December.

But the band has set its sights even higher. The hope is to create the “Art of Music Institute,” which would provide highlevel instruction to musicians from beginners to touring professionals. It has started this year with master level workshops this Saturday from the likes of Aubrey Haynie, Noam Pikelny and Bryan Sutton. Also on Saturday are workshops for those not quite up to the master level classes.

Eventually, Melton and Nicholson explained, the band

Scott McLeod

“It’s exciting to think about what Haywood County could be. The desire is there.”

— Buddy Melton, fiddler/singer, Balsam Range

Consciences and consequences Devin Patrick Kelley, a 26-year-old Texan, killed 26 people before apparently taking his own life on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, during church services at Sutherland Springs Baptist Church (Texas). News reports indicate the slaughter was the result of a heated “domestic situation.” All indications are that upon his bad conduct discharge from the U.S. Air Force he should have been identified as an individual who could not buy or possess weapons legally. Sadly, that crucial information was never relayed to civilian authorities. Thus, Kelley obtained and used a Ruger rapid-fire assault rifle as he carried out his atrocious mass murder.

With perhaps some over-simplification, this essay attempts to shed light on how and why this tragedy took place.

There are two “doors” that regulate human behavior. One is the conscience. The New World Dictionary defines the conscience as “a knowledge or sense of right and wrong, with a compulsion to do right.” The second door is consequencesnatural physical consequences along with man-made laws and consequences. The conscience has the potential to require the individual to do what he/she thinks is right. It can also require the individual to not do what he/she thinks is wrong. Humans have the choice to obey or violate their consciences on a daily basis. In regard to consequences they are seldom totally predictable in nature. Also, consequences set up by man-made laws are very difficult to enforce consistently.

In the classic serial killer novel made into the movie “The Silence of the Lambs” this duality of conscience/consequences is very well portrayed by Anthony Hopkins as

Hannibal Lecter. Hannibal has no conscience to prevent him from killing people who get in his way. He kills them and eats chosen “delicicious” body parts. Hannibal displays little fear of being caught in his criminal/anti-social behavior. He has proven himself very capable of avoiding capture and confinement.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) along with thousands of its members insist that the Second Amendment to our Constitution guarantees the right of Americans to own firearms. Their mantra is that “Guns don’t kill, people kill.”

To many it appears the NRA is willing to ignore the harsh reality that too many people have been killed by people wielding assault rifles. How long will the NRA shirk its responsibility to support legislation that sets reasonable limits on who can legally own firearms and which firearms pose too great a risk of harming/killing Americans and, therefore, must be controlled/banned for the safety of all? What could possibly motivate that influential organization to continue with its present philosophy and lobbying to Congress? Surely people don’t have to be told the answer to that question! It is money.

I have personally chosen not to join the NRA because of their rigid stance that perpetuates this needless killing. I will continue, like many of my friends, neighbors and relatives to own simple non-assault firearms for personal safety.

There was a time when peoples’ consciences told them not to kill people with their firearms. There was a time when assault rifles were not readily available. There was a time when people did not play video games that resulted in people dying before their eyes. For some who have never witnessed a killing/death this surely must diminish the value of

envisions a week-long “Art of Music Institute and Festival” where fledgling and professional musicians from across the country would come and stay in Haywood County to participate in workshops.

In addition, those top-notch musicians leading the workshops would perform throughout the week at some of the intimate venues around Haywood County, places like the Colonial Theater in Canton, the Strand and the HART Theatre in downtown Waynesville, and Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley.

“The vision is to turn it into the type of festival that encompasses the entire county,” said Melton. “The list could go on and on of the facilities in Haywood County that could be part of this. This is an opportunity to showcase Haywood County as a whole ….”

Imagine world-class musicians, setting up camp in the region for close to a week, sharing their talent with other musicians from around the country, performing nightly at local venues. When not working on their music, there is plenty of outdoor adventure and beauty to take in, lots of great restaurants and breweries to visit, a plethora of galleries and craftspeople who would love to share their wares with the visitors.

I’ve spent a lot of time over the years listening to people talk about the great things they want to do to help this region economically. In this case, I think Balsam Range is onto to something. An already fantastic festival like this could become huge if the right pieces and players come together.

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

human life.

If we could re-tool the “American conscience,” perhaps we could reduce killing to zero per year. But, since we can’t control consciences, what can we control? We can, if we choose to do so, regulate/control assault rifles.

There is a prevent-minimize-control continuum that is considered in regard to disasters and tragedies. Prevention is generally the least expensive choice. Minimization is more expensive. Correction is usually much more expensive than either of those two. The huge trouble with the correction phase is that human life cannot be restored once taken. That is a somber reality that NRA officials and many of its members need to ponder on.

Are they so intent on the right to possess any firearm that they can convince themselves they have no part in the prevention of killing innocent people? There is at least a thin line here between what our military personnel should have and what civilians should/should not be allowed to own. Most of my neighbors say they see no need for any hunter or gun enthusiast to own assault rifles.

In her great song “Superman,” Donna Fargo sings, “Now, let’s go through this one more time. You do your thing and I’ll do mine. But, honey baby, we got to draw the line when your hang-up starts messin’ with mine.” It is becoming quite clear that the NRA’s hang-up is messing with precious human lives. Bob Dylan asked, “How many deaths will it take ‘til we know that too many people have died?” When will the collective American conscience kick in and tell the NRA that profit should never trump human life?

Should we beg NRA members to discontinue their membership in an attempt to persuade that powerful organization to support legislation banning assault rifles?

Dave Waldrop Webster

Chris Cox

T

Senate budget harms children To the Editor: I recently received a personal assurance from Congressman Mark Meadows, RAsheville, that the CHIP/Health Choice program upon which tens of thousands of NC families rely for their children’s health care would be funded. The House did in fact pass this along to the U.S. Senate, where Senators Robert Burr and Thom Tillis are supporting a budget that will in fact cripple CHIP and MEDICAID as well. These two programs serve over one million children in North Carolina, as well as hundreds of thousands of seniors in nursing homes and many, many disabled people.

The health of our children should not be sacrificed to give a tax cut to the wealthiest 5 percent of our population. This is a slowburning national disaster in the making that could put us back 50 years, before Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, VA and yes, before Social Security, which are all threatened in this outrageous budget proposal.

I don’t understand why our local representatives — Rep Mike Clampitt, R-Bryson City, and Rep. Michelle Presnell, R-Burnsville, and Meadows and Rep. Pat McHenry, RGastonia, are not shouting from the rooftops to stop this travesty about to be inflicted on thousands of families in their districts. Did not Jesus say “that which you do to the least of these …?”

Stephen Wall, MD FAAP Waynesville

Smoky Mountain News

n’t speak.

After the service, we were treated to an incredible feast by members of the church. We ate ham, chicken and dumplings, turkey, roast, and a staggering assortment of casseroles and desserts, with the smaller children crawling under tables to hide or play tricks on their parents or siblings. Best of all, we were treated to more stories about Carroll, stories of his generosity, his love for the children, Columnist his warmth — “he gave the best hugs ever” — and the frequent gifts he brought from his garden. Squash, beans, tomatoes … whatever was ready to pick, bushels or huge bags of it, left on doorsteps of church members or the church itself.

My favorite stories, though, were the smaller ones that capture the quieter, but essential, aspects of a person’s life. How, for example, he always carried a treat every single day when he walked out the long driveway to get the mail, so that he had something for the neighbor’s dog, who always sat up and pricked up his ears when he heard Carroll coming down the way toward his mailbox.

I remembered how many mornings I would have to throw out his coffee and make my own pot, because he could never manage to put enough grounds in the filter to make the coffee more than the very lightest shade of brown. “That’s not coffee,” I would tease my mother after he was already gone to church. “It looks like rusty water, and it tastes worse than that.”

Anytime I was home, he always made sure to give me the remote control, even if he was already watching something.

And he watched random, strange things on television. Police procedurals, documentaries about meerkats, lacrosse, or whatever struck his fancy at any given moment. Whatever it was, if I came in the room, he handed me the remote and said, “Here, see if there is a game or something you want to watch.”

He told me, just a week before he died, that he had had a good life and was ready to go. I think he would have liked the celebration of his life, but maybe worried that we were making too much of a fuss over him. If he could, he would’ve liked to be there to sweep up afterwards.

We’ll celebrate his life best by taking the time to help our neighbors without them even knowing it, by smiling and speaking to a shy child, or by giving the dog up the street a treat, just because.

(Chris Cox is a writer and teacher. jchriscox@live.com)

To the Editor: Make no mistake about it. The so-called tax reform is first and foremost a payback to the billionaires and millionaires who fund Republican campaigns. The tax breaks for the wealthy provide a huge payback of billions for the millions donated to Republican candidates up and down the ballot.

The argument that the tax cuts for the wealthy will significantly stimulate the economy is totally false. All that past tax cuts have done in the long run is increase the deficit without any noticeable benefit to the working class or to the economy. The Reagan and Bush tax cuts did essentially nothing except give tax breaks to the wealthiest and increase the deficit. No matter how much lipstick Republicans want to smear on this pig, the fact remains that the only people to get any substantial benefits are the wealthiest among us.

As for the working class, many will actually see a tax increase instead of a net tax cut.

This is because many of the most vulnerable will lose deductions for areas, such as medical expenses, interest on student loans, local tax deductions, etc. Furthermore, the tax cuts sunset in a few years, but the elimination of deductions does not. That means that in a few years, the people making under $80,000 will see a substantial increase in there taxes for as much as 15 percent.

How do the Republicans pay for the tax cuts to the wealthy? Why one way is to cut out the health insurance coverage for 13 million Americans. That’s right. They pay for part of the tax cuts by hitting those who have the least ability to pay.

The remainder of the tax cuts is paid for by increasing the deficit, which means that our children, grand children, and great grandchildren will be stuck with the tab for paying off the rich Republican donors today.

Then there is the argument for cutting corporate taxes. The claim is that if corporations make more money they will increase wages for workers out of the goodness of the executives’ hearts. The fact is that the larger corporations have so many loopholes that they don’t pay anywhere near the stated rate.

Big corporations are rolling in more money than they know what to do with.

So, where are those wage increase now?

LETTERS The truth is that if corporations pay fewer taxes they will just increase profits, buy back stock so the corporate executives have greater control, and increase dividends to the rich who already will have huge tax breaks.

No matter how you slice it, the tax “reform” bill is mostly about payback to the wealthy donors. The working Americans will see little if any benefit. And the economy will not improve in any meaningful way.

Norman Hoffman Waynesville Dr. Hoffmann is a retired clinical psychologist living in Waynesville. He can be reached at wncfacts@gmail.com

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

he day of my stepfather’s celebration of life service was a brisk, sunny Saturday morning, as good a day as any to celebrate life. We got up before daylight, made coffee, put on our nice clothes, packed the car, and hit the road for the three-hour drive up to Sparta, where we would meet the rest of the family before all the people started showing up to hug us or shake our hands as we stood in a long line to greet them.

The service was held in the church where my stepfather and mother were members, and as we stood in a long, serpentine line waiting for the other line to form, I reflected on the many mornings over the years when we stayed at my mom and stepdad’s house on our visits to town. Carroll was always at the church doing something or other. On Sunday mornings, he would be up and out the door long before any of the rest of us woke up, getting to the church hours early to clean, make coffee, and help prepare breakfast for church members and visitors alike before the weekly service began.

Of the 200 or so people who came through the line to express their sorrow for our loss — and their own loss — probably half of those were fellow members of the church. I heard at least a dozen stories I did not know about his contributions to the church, hours he spent working on the floors, or the walls, or something else. I knew how much of the church had been in Carroll, but had not quite realized how much of Carroll there was in the church.

It has been just about 17 years since my father passed away. Even after he and my mother divorced, she was still considered a part of that family, and eventually as the years wore on, Carroll was, too.

They were both often present for holiday meals, and no one thought or felt anything strange about it when they came for Christmas dinner or Thanksgiving or Easter Sunday.

Almost all of my dad’s family were there for the service on Saturday, including all four of his siblings, ranging in age from 68 to 84. Somehow, they remain locked in their forties or early fifties in my mind’s eye, and I am always in my early twenties, just about to finish up college.

But then I see my brother and his wife, Reba, along with their three sons at the other end of the line. I see my sister and her children, both grown with children of their own, and I realize that my brother, sister, and I are now the very ages that I still assign to our aunts and uncle. It doesn’t seem possible, but here we are, and the passing of our stepfather is just another a jolting confirmation that change is not only upon us, but is always there, riding shotgun, even when it does-

Tax bill is payback to wealthy donors

opinion

Remembering the quieter, essential aspects of a life

1-800- V I S I T

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Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

(828) 246-0927

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Smoky Mountain News

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

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Taste the Mountains is an ever-evolving paid section of places to dine in Western North Carolina. If you would like to be included in the listing please contact our advertising department at 828.452.4251 APPLE ANDY’S RESTAURANT 3483 Soco Road, Maggie Valley located in Market Square. 828.944.0626. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Wednesday and Thursday.

Serving the freshest homemade sandwiches, wraps, and entrees such as country fried steak and grilled flounder. Full salad bar and made from scratch sides like potato salad, pinto beans and macaroni and cheese. www.appleandys.com BLOSSOM ON MAIN 128 N. Main Street, Waynesville.

828.454.5400. Open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Mild, medium, to hot and spicy, our food is cooked to your like-able temperature.

Forget the myth that all Thai food is spicy.

Traditional Thai food is known to be quite healthy, making use of natural and fresh ingredients, paired with lots of spices, herbs, and vegetables. Vegetarians and health conscious individuals will not be disappointed as fresh vegetables and tofu are available in most of our menu as well as wines and saki chosen to compliment the unique flavors of Thai cuisine.

BLUE ROOSTER SOUTHERN GRILL 207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde, Lakeside Plaza at the old Wal-Mart. 828.456.1997. Open Monday through Friday. Friendly and fun family atmosphere. Local, handmade Southern cuisine. Fresh-cut salads; slow-simmered soups; flame grilled burgers and steaks, and homemade signature desserts.

Blue-plates and local fresh vegetables daily.

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

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

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

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE 454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch daily 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; dinner nightly at 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. Wine Down Wednesday’s: ½ off wine by the bottle. We specialize in hand-cut, all natural steaks from local farms, incredible burgers, and other classic american comfort foods that are made using only the finest local and sustainable ingredients available.

CATALOOCHEE RANCH 119 Ranch Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1401. Family-style breakfast from

8 to 9:30 a.m. – with eggs, bacon, sausage, grits and oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-youcan-eat. Lunch menu from 12 to 2 p.m. with fresh salads, homemade soups and sandwiches. In the evening, social hour begins at 6 p.m.; dinner is served at 7 p.m., with entrees such as seared salmon, oven-roasted chicken and cast-iron skillet pork chops, complemented by locally-sourced vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer fine wines and local craft beer.

Please call for reservations and join us for mile-high mountaintop dining with a spectacular view.

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

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

CHURCH STREET DEPOT 34 Church Street, downtown Waynesville.

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

CITY LIGHTS CAFE Spring Street in downtown Sylva.

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

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

Outside patio seating. Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly.

Live music and lots of events. Check the web calendar at citylightscafe.com.

THE CLASSIC WINESELLER 20 Church Street, Waynesville.

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

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

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

828.926.1820 Winter hours: Wednesday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family Style at Country Vittles is not a buffet.

Instead our waitresses will bring your food piping hot from the kitchen right to your table and as many refills as you want. So if you have a big appetite, but sure to ask your waitress about our family style service.

EVERETT HOTEL & BISTRO 16 Everett St.,Bryson City. 828.488.1934.

Open daily for dinner at 4:30 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday Brunch from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; dinner from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Serving fresh and delicious weekday morning lite fare, lunch, dinner, and brunch. Freshly prepared menu offerings range from house-made soups & salads, lite fare & tapas, crepes, specialty sandwiches and burgers. Be sure not to miss the bold flavors and creative combinations that make up the daily Chef

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

FERRARA PIZZA & PASTA 243 Paragon Parkway, Clyde.

828.476.5058. Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 12 to 8 p.m. Real New Yorkers. Real Italians. Real Pizza. A full service authentic Italian pizzeria and restaurant from New York to the Blue Ridge. Dine in, take out, and delivery. Check out our daily lunch specials plus customer appreciation nights on Monday and Tuesday 5 to 9 p.m. with large cheese pizzas for $9.95.

FILLING STATION DELI 145 Everett St., Bryson City, 828.488.1919.

Open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sundays (in October) 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Locals always know best, and this is one place they know well. From the highquality hot pressed sandwiches and the huge portions of hand-cut fries to the specialty frozen sandwiches and homemade Southern desserts, you will not leave this top-rated deli hungry.

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

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

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

GUADALUPE CAFÉ 606 W. Main Street, Sylva. 828.586.9877.

Open 7 days a week at 5 p.m. Located in the historic Hooper’s Drugstore, Guadalupe Café is a chef-owned and operated restaurant serving Caribbean inspired fare complimented by a quirky selection of wines and microbrews. Supporting local farmers of organic produce, livestock, hand-crafted cheese, and using sustainably harvested seafood.

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

Open for dinner at 4:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. World-famous prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood, gorgonzola cheese and salads. All ABC permits and open year-round. Children always welcome.

Take-out menu. Excellent service and hospitality. Reservations appreciated.

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

828.648.4193. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch, nd dinner.

The restaurant has a 1950s & 60s theme decorated with memorabilia from that era.

tasteTHEmountains LOS AMIGOS 366 Russ Ave. in the Bi-Lo Plaza.

828.456.7870. Open from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 to 10 p.m. for dinner Monday through Friday and 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy the lunch prices Monday through Sunday, also enjoy our outdoor patio.

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

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

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

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

828.926.1616. maggievalleyclub.com/dine.

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

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

Open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. With music at the Depot. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Life is too short for bad coffee. We feature wonderful breakfast and lunch selections. Bagels, wraps, soups, sandwiches, salads and quiche with a variety of specialty coffees, teas and smoothies. Various desserts.

PATIO BISTRO 30 Church Street, Waynesville.

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

Outdoor and indoor dining.

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR Maggie Valley Inn and Conference Center 70 Soco Road, Maggie Valley 828.926.0201

SALTY DOG’S SEAFOOD & GRILL 3567 Soco Road, Maggie Valley.

828.926.9105. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Full service bar and restaurant located in the center of Maggie Valley.

Featuring daily $6 lunch specials and daily dinner specials such as $1 Taco Tuesdays and 45¢ Wednesday Wings.

SMOKEY SHADOWS LODGE 323 Smoky Shadows Lane, Maggie Valley 828.926.0001. Check Facebook page for hours, which vary. Call early when serving because restaurant fills up fast. Remember when families joined each other at the table for a delicious homemade meal and shared stories about their day? That time is now at Smokey Shadows. The menus are customizable for your special event. Group of eight or more can schedule their own dinner.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN SUB SHOP 29 Miller Street Waynesville 828.456.3400.

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

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

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

Located across from the Fire Station.

TAP ROOM BAR & GRILL 176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville.

828.456.3551. Open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tucked away inside Waynesville Inn, the Tap Room Bar & Grill has an approachable menu designed around locally sourced, sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients. Full bar and wine cellar. www.thewaynesvilleinn.com.

Let us Cater Your Holiday Parties, Large or Small WaynesvilleCatering.com

828-452-7837

SUNDAY BRUNCH

TRAILHEAD CAFE & BAKERY 18 N Main Street, Waynesville.

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

VITO’S PIZZA 607 Highlands Rd., Franklin.

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

AT BEARWATERS BREWING

101 PARK ST. CANTON 828.492.1422 PIGEONRIVERGRILLE.COM MON-THUR 3-8 • FRI, SAT, SUN 12-8

WAYNESVILLE PIZZA COMPANY 32 Felmet Street, Waynesville.

828.246.0927. Open Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 10 p.m.; Sunday noon to 9 p.m.; closed Tuesdays. Opened in May 2016, The Waynesville Pizza Company has earned a reputation for having the best hand-tossed pizza in the area. Featuring a custom bar with more than 20 beers and a rustic, family friendly dining room. Menu includes salads, burgers, wraps, hot and cold sandwiches, gourmet pizza, homemade desserts, and a loaded salad bar. The Cuban sandwich is considered by most to be the best in town.

Nutrition Facts

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34 CHURCH ST. WAYNESVILLE 828.246.6505 Mtwitter.com/ChurchStDepot C facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot

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Smoky Mountain News

WAYNESVILLE’S BEST BURGERS

SAGEBRUSH STEAKHOUSE 1941 Champion Drive, Canton 828.646.3750 895 Russ Ave., Waynesville 828.452.5822. Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Carry out available.

Sagebrush features hand carved steaks, chicken and award winning BBQ ribs. We have fresh salads, seasonal vegetables and scrumptious deserts. Extensive selection of local craft beers and a full bar. Catering special events is one of our specialties.

Using only the freshest ingredients in homemade soups, salads and sandwiches. Come in and see for yourself why Smoky Mountain Sub Shop was voted # 1 in Haywood County.

Locally owned and operated.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

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

828.497.4590. Open 7 a.m. daily.

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

Home of the Maggie Valley Pizzeria. We deliver after 4 p.m. daily to all of Maggie Valley, J-Creek area, and Lake Junaluska.

Monday through Wednesday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. country buffet and salad bar from 5 to 9 p.m. $11.95 with Steve Whiddon on piano.

Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 11:30 to 8 p.m. 11:30 to 3 p.m. family style, fried chicken, ham, fried fish, salad bar, along with all the fixings, $11.95.

Check out our events and menu at rendezvousmaggievalley.com

207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde

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

Real Local Families, Real Local Farms, Real Local Food 27

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A&E

Smoky Mountain News

Christmas in Appalachia

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD • STAFF WRITER

A

s the temperatures drop in Western North Carolina, the fun only heats up. The holiday season here is filled with events and activities aimed to celebrate the best way we know how — with friends, family and visitors alike.

Families can partake in wagon rides, iceless skating, craft sales and art demonstrations, all the while enjoying authentic mountain music, clogging and parades through several downtowns. These are just some of the innumerable activities to be had. Within every date, time and place found amid this section, the communities around the region once again open their arms to share in the winter festivities.

It’s a winter wonderland out there. It’s yours for the taking, so reach out and enjoy all Southern Appalachia has to offer.

Lake Junaluska’s ‘Appalachian Christmas’

All are invited to Lake Junaluska Dec. 8-9 for “Appalachian Christmas,” a holiday concert weekend including a local craft show.

The Lake Junaluska Singers will return, under the direction Mary Huff and Associate Director Kathy Geyer McNeil, to perform Handel’s Messiah at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, in the Stuart Auditorium.

Handel’s Messiah is a baroque-era music composition by George Frideric Handel, composed in 1741-1742 and the Lake Junaluska Singers will perform alongside a regional chorus and area musicians.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to conduct Messiah again and to have the Lake Junaluska Singers back to participate,” said McNeil. “For me, it’s very special to conduct Messiah at Lake Junaluska because it’s a part of the tradition of this wonderful place that I call home,” said McNeil.

The “Appalachian Christmas Craft Show” will include more than 40 artisans exhibiting all hand-crafted items. The show is run by the Junaluska Woman’s Club and the profits go toward scholarships the Woman’s Club puts

BRASSTOWN • The “Fireside Sale” will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Joh C. Campbell Folk School.

Local artisans will sell handcrafted gifts including jewelry, quilts, forged iron, turned wood, alpaca fleece apparel, intricate ornaments, and much more.

While guests enjoy the holiday ambience, the Cherokee County Arts Council will offer homemade refreshments. The Folk School Craft Shop showcases finely made gifts from over 300 talented craftspeople.

The Craft Shop offers 15 percent off all items through Dec. 23.

During the following week, the Folk School offers an inviting lineup of free seasonal events in the Keith House Community Room. On Dec. 4 at 7 p.m., Bean Sidhe will present Christmas Songs and Celtic Tunes.

On Dec. 6 at 7 p.m., Bob Grove will delight the audience with his dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

Decked in period costume, Bob will adopt all

Bean Sidh.

The Lake Junaluska Singers. together for Lake Junaluska staff members every summer. All are welcome to attend the craft show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, in the Harrell Center.

The Cockman Family, will perform at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, in the Stuart Auditorium. The group is known for their signature bluegrass-gospel sound, warm family atmosphere and an instrumental proficiency that will delight the audience.

“Appalachian Christmas” festivities wrap up with a Christmas concert by the Lake Junaluska Singers at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, in the Stuart Auditorium. Members of the 16-voice ensemble will return from across the country to perform at “Appalachian Christmas.” Carols with audience participation, “Appalachian Christmas” songs, and poignant readings will round out the evening.

“We’ll be singing Christmas favorites like Ding, Dong, Merrily on High, The Holly and the Ivy, The Little Drummer Boy, O Holy Night, and Carol of the Bells,” said Mary Huff, director of the Lake Junaluska Singers.

Concert tickets are available for $23 reserved, $18 general admission. Call 800.222.4930 or visit www.lakejunaluska.com/christmas to buy tickets. Lodging packages are also available.

characters’ voices, lending an authentic tone to his delivery. At 8 p.m. that night, the colorful Brasstown Morris Dancers will take the stage for a lively holiday dance performance.

To round out this festive week, the Brasstown Ringers community handbell group will present its much-loved holiday concert. Set for Dec. 8 at 7 p.m., the ensemble’s performance will include classic Christmas favorites and brand-new selections. Donations are welcome.

The Folk School’s Holiday Kids’ Party always attracts a spirited group of young revelers. Planned for Dec. 16 from 1 to 3 p.m., this popular event includes holiday music and dancing, children’s activities, and a special visit from Santa Claus. At 8 p.m. that evening, local residents are invited to gather for the Holiday Contra & Square Dance Party.

Singles and couples are welcome, including beginners. This free event features talented local musicians and callers, and dancers are invited to bring holiday desserts to share.

Free admission. 800.FOLK.SCH.

BRYSON CITY • The 43rd annual Christmas Parade will also be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in downtown. www.greatsmokies.com.

• A stage production of “A Christmas Story” will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 8-9, 15-16 and 18, and 3 p.m. Dec. 10 and 17 at the

Smoky Mountain Community Theatre. For ticket information, call 828.488.8227 or visit www.smctheatre.com.

• “Breakfast with Santa” will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Rescue Squad Building. Pancake breakfast ($5). Bring your own camera. 828.488.3681.

• The “Polar Express” will depart Dec. 624 from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot. For more information on departures or to purchase tickets, visit www.gsmr.com.

• “Letters to Santa” will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Dec. 23 at the Swain County Heritage Museum. Drop a line for Santa. Materials provided. Call the museum for Santa appearances: 800.867.9246.

CANTON

• The 13th annual “Christmas Worship in a Stable” will be held from 5:30 to 6:10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the 3rd Generation Barn Loft Farm outside of Canton.

Admission is free. The event will take place in the historic barn. You may also bring one canned food item to place at the Manger for The Community Kitchen in Canton.

Casual service includes singing of Christmas carols interspersed during Scripture readings; sitting on hay bales; a Christmas-related story; live animals and special music and lighting. Dress warmly.

Parking is at the barn and event is handicapped accessible.

The 3rd Generation Barn Loft is located at 84 Frank Mann Road: Exit 33/I-40, turn towards Leicester (sign) on Newfound Road continuing for about three-quarters of a mile. Fork left onto North Hominy Road, then take very first right onto Frank Mann Road.

CASHIERS

• The annual “Christmas On the Green” celebration will run through New Year’s Day at The Village Green. The 13-acre park in the heart of Cashiers will feature thousands of twinkling lights. For more information, visit www.villagegreencashiersnc.com.

COWEE

• The old-fashioned “Christmas at Cowee School” will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the school.

There will be an arts and crafts show, live holiday music, face painting, children’s activities, and much more. The studios at Cowee School, Arts and Heritage Center will be open with special activities throughout the day. Admission and parking are both free.

Visit “Grandpa’s Woodshop,” located this year right in front of the school, in a tent provided by Carey Patton of Tent Masters NC, and make a wooden hand crafted item,

S EE CHRISTMAS, PAGE 30

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

Thanksgiving in Charlotte.

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Smoky Mountain News

The final “Art After Dark” of the year will be It was right around the second from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in downtown beer when I began to settle in.

Waynesville.

The warm sunshine and lingering foliage of metropolitan Local country singer Ryan Perry will host the Charlotte was in stark contrast to “Under The Moonshine” single release party the chilly air and empty trees of from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the mountains of Western North Elevated Mountain Distilling in Maggie Valley.

Carolina. But, with my aunt and The rapid-fire tap dancing squad Rhythmic cousin within arm’s reach, and Circus will perform a special holiday show my girlfriend beside me, I “Red and Green” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, immersed myself into the Dec. 5, at the Bardo Arts Center in Cullowhee.

Thanksgiving gathering last week.

As a kid, I remember those The Old-Time and Bluegrass Series at Western frozen, snowy and often icy Carolina University continues with a concert Thanksgiving get-togethers on the featuring the old-time band the Haywood Canadian border. I’d be delegated Ramblers at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, in the all-important responsibility of Cullowhee. helping elderly relatives up our slippery driveway and into my The Haywood County Arts Council annual cozy and warm childhood farmshow, “It’s a Small, Small Work,” will be held house. After that? Grab some firethrough Dec. 23 in HCAC Gallery & Gifts in wood in the barn for the stove, but Waynesville. only do that after putting all the coats on the bed for safe keeping. ern wind howled against the windows.

There would be a couple dozen of us — Once I was 16 and got my driver’s give or take — where all my immediate familicense, my riff-raff cronies and I would ly, and scattered ones from the extended, would sit around the large dining room table, cruise the backroads of the North Country on Turkey Day, bouncing between our sepathe kiddie table, or whatever chairs were available in the living room. My grandparents rate family gatherings, scavenging whatever would be at the head of the table, always, with food would fit in our hands on our way out the door to destinations unknown, but most my parents running around putting out likely a bonfire party somewhere way out in plates or refilling wine glasses. Laughter.

Burps. More laughter. Arms in a frenzy either the abyss of rural Upstate New York.

College rolled around, and I was one of reaching or receiving, all while a cold north-

Meat Pies

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

HOT PICKS 1 2 3 4 5

St. Andrews Square Scottish Flair!

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

the few who went to school out-of-state.

So, Thanksgiving Break was the first time each new school year that I was finally home for a hot minute, eager to catch up with high school chums, eager to get into whatever mischief would allow us to avoid any sort of adult responsibility for at least one more holiday.

We’d hole up in some local dive bar, throwing darts, playing pool or shuffleboard, telling tall tales of college escapades, bragging about something that probably never happened, kicking around hopes and dreams for the future, all crammed into that precious time before we all had to be home in time to say grace and dive into the huge spread that awaited us.

Since I’ve lived in Western North Carolina, I’ve been pretty much an orphan during Thanksgiving. Most of my immediate family is over 1,000 miles away in the northeast. Here in Southern Appalachia, some friend’s family would usually take me in, with my publisher and his gracious family taking me in the last couple of years.

That first Thanksgiving here (2012) I’d only been living in Haywood County a short time. I didn’t know anybody, and was too prideful (stubborn?) to mention I had no Thanksgiving plans the week leading up to the day.

My first Thanksgiving in the south was upon me. I bought a 12-pack of cheap beer and a foot-long Subway sandwich with all the dressings. Sitting on my bed in that small apartment, I stared out the window onto the empty streets of Waynesville, wondering if this was the right decision in taking this job and uprooting my entire life back in New York in hopes of something new, something to point me in the right direction.

Luckily, that was the only day like that, where I was completely alone, when I should have been with friends and family, celebrating the mere fact that life is a gift, and as such, we should be aware of that, always sending out love and positivity into the universe, in hopes of it perhaps making a difference (which it does).

So, there I was last week, in Charlotte, with all those memories above rolling around my head, wondering about time and my place in it, just as my cousin is asking for me to pass the gravy, and as I myself kept grabbing for the buttered rolls.

My aunt and cousin moved to Charlotte a couple years ago, after not being able to find sufficient work back home. I’d only been able to see them a handful of times since they relocated below the Mason-Dixon Line. It was nice, and kind of surreal, to be in the presence of familiarity, folks who know you the best and love you the most. It was especially warming to my heart, which is as much a loner as a lover.

My parents, sister and niece, and extended family were soon Skyping us from their Thanksgiving, everyone up there in the North Country, running around my late grandparents’ house in that hometown over a 1,000 miles away. I said hello to all the smiling faces staring back at me through the digital device. We laughed. We burped. We laughed more.

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

Kids & Family Love The Strand!

For Latest Movie Times:

38main.com

Bring ad in for free kids popcorn!

29

those 60 and older. General admission tickets at the door are $20 for adults; $15 for WCU faculty and staff and those 60 and older; and $5 for students and children.

Proceeds benefit the School of Music Scholarship Fund. For tickets, visit bardoartscenter.wcu.edu or call 828.227.2479.

• The Western Carolina University College of Fine and Performing Arts, the WCU School of Stage and Screen, and the WCU Bardo Arts Center presents “The Santaland Diaries” by NPR comic genius David Sedaris at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7-9 in the Bardo Arts Center Studio Theatre.

Each production includes a pre-show reception at 6:30 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres,

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

arts & entertainment

CHRISTMAS, CONTINUED FROM 28 suitable for gift giving. Then visit “Grandma’s Kitchen,” sponsored by Cowee Community Development Organization and decorate a home baked cookie to eat or take home.

The Women’s History Trail will have freshly gathered decorative sprigs of Mistletoe, delicious sweets, hot coffee and tea for sale.

The 4-H Sewing club will be selling items they have sewn, in “Grandma’s Kitchen,” too.

For more information, contact Claire Suminksi at 828.369.5417, email claire@dometrics.com or visit the Cowee School website at www.coweeschool.org.

• Holiday ARTSaturday, the Arts Council’s free crafts and music workshop, will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center gym.

This annual event for elementary schoolage children and young families offers makeand-take evergreen swags, cards and decorations, free face painting by Macon Faces, caroling with keyboardist Lionel Caynon, and fun for all. The Joe and Claire Suminski Family sponsors ARTSaturday to honor the grandparents of Macon County.

ARTSaturday is part of the Heritage Center’s Cowee Christmas, an all-day celebration featuring open studios, arts and crafts demonstrations, shows and sales, food, and more.

Schedule and details at www.coweeschool.org.

The historic school is on Cowee Creek Drive off Bryson City Road (28 N) about seven miles north of Franklin. ARTSaturday

TUMBLING GYM IN DOWNTOWN CANTON! Classes Available: • LEVELS 1-4 You advance as you learn.

Ages 4-18 • BOYS "NINJA” TUMBLING Learn to tumble like a Ninja!

Ages 4-15

Smoky Mountain News

• CHEER 101 Ages 7-18

TUES: OPEN GYM ($5) Ages 3 & UNDER ONLY 10am-12pm

The WCU Wind Ensemble. is produced by the Arts Council with funding from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Contact the Macon Council for details, 828.524.ARTS or arts4all@dnet.net.

CULLOWHEE • The annual “Sounds of the Season” concert will be presented by Western Carolina University’s School of Music at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, in the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center.

The holiday favorite will begin with per-

formances by large and small ensembles onstage, in the balcony and even among the audience, creating a unique, “surround sound” experience.

WCU’s Wind Ensemble, Concert and Chamber choirs, Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble and instrumental chamber groups will be joined by the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band and the Jackson County Youth Honors Chorus. The family-friendly concert concludes with a holiday sing-along and an appearance by Santa Claus.

Advance tickets are on sale now, with purchase before Monday, Nov. 27 set at $15 for adults and $10 for WCU faculty and staff and

two free drinks, and a special “parents night out” opportunity.

This outrageous holiday comedy is based on David Sedaris’ beloved humorous and autobiographical essays, “The Santaland Diaries,” which have been adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello. The play stars Crumpet, a rebel without a “Clause” who recounts the true-life tale of an out-of-work writer’s stint at a Macy’s Department Store, working in Santaland for the holiday season, as a reluctant, but relentlessly cheerful, elf.

“Crumpet” shares his observations from one chaotic December in Santaland featuring aggressive parents and

F

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DILLSBORO • The annual “Lights & Luminaries” will return to the streets of downtown Dec. 1-2 and 8-9.

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. Horse and buggy rides available each night. Shopkeepers provide live music and serve holiday treats with hot cider and cocoa.

Carolers sing and children visit with Santa

and Mrs. Claus. Live Nativity at Jarrett Memorial Baptist Church.

Free shuttle service from Monteith Park.

For more information, visit www.visitdillsboro.org.

FRANKLIN • With the theme “Winter Wonderland Nights,” there will be a special holiday celebration at 5 p.m. Dec 2 in downtown.

The showcase will feature living window displays, free wagon rides, tree lighting ceremony, live music, and much more. For more information, contact the Franklin Chamber of Commerce at 828.524.3161 or www.franklin-chamber.com.

• The Oak Ridge Boys, a widely acclaimed award-winning country music group, will present a very special “Christmas Celebration” concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.

With over 30 top 10 hits and more than a dozen number one singles to their credit, The Oak Ridge Boys has one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in country music. Their four-part harmonies have earned them multiple Grammy, Dove, County Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards.

• The “Christmas in the Mountains” indoor arts and crafts show will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Stecoah Valley Center. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

SYLVA • The Sylva Christmas Parade will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in downtown. For more information, call 828.586.2719 or visit www.mainstreetsylva.org.

WAYNESVILLE • The Christmas Parade will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, on Main Street. Parade starts at First Presbyterian Church and proceeds down Main Street to Bogart’s Restaurant.

The parade is sponsored by the Town of Waynesville, Waynesville Kiwanis Club, and organized by the Downtown Waynesville Association. This year’s parade theme is “Christmas Smokies Style.”

Enjoy this annual community tradition as over 120 illuminated entries, dance academies, costumed characters, and local high school bands parade down historic Main Street celebrating the spirit of the holidays.

Santa Claus makes a special appearance as the guest of honor.

S EE CHRISTMAS, PAGE 32

Smoky Mountain News

drunken Santas, to flirtatious actors, poor hygiene, and the racially charged hazards of being a “Pointer Elf.” Tickets are $30 each and include a preshow reception with hors d’oeuvres and two free drinks. Also available each night of the performance is our “Parents Night Out” opportunity — bring your children to the performance and drop them off with the WCU School of Art and Design’s Art Education Club for an evening of holiday themed art (marble/stamped wrapping paper, wreaths, reindeer head busts) and tasty treats. This opportunity is only $15 per student and is available for up to 40 students per evening.

For tickets and further information please visit arts.wcu.edu/santaland.

arts & entertainment

Lights and Luminaries in Dillsboro.

They have produced 12 gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album throughout their career with hits such as “Elvira,” “Bobby Sue” and “Fancy Free.” Their performances of Christmas tunes such as, “Thank God for Kids,” “Jesus is Born Today” and “Christmas is Paintin’ The Town” are audience favorites.

The Oak Ridge Boys were invited to be members of the Grand Ole Opry in 2011 and were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015. Currently, they are working on a new recording project that will be released early next year. Tickets start at $36. To purchase tickets, visit www.greatmountainmusic.com or call 866.273.4615.

• The Macon County Public Library and the Friends of the Macon County Public Library will co-sponsor a Christmas themed story-time with Christmas caroling at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the living room of the library. The event will include Christmas stories, Christmas carols and a visit from Santa Claus. Thanks to the Friends of the Library, everyone can also enjoy cookies, juice and coffee. Also, all children will receive a free book from Santa Claus and are welcome to get their picture taken with Santa.

• The Brasstown Ringers will present “Bells of Christmas Past,” their 2017 Christmas Concert series, at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at the First United Methodist Church.

Musical selections for this series includes popular tunes and melodies from the 1940s and earlier.

• The “Best Christmas Paegant Ever” will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Dec. 8-9 at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.

Tickets are $12. www.greatmountainmusic.com or 828.524.1598.

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CHRISTMAS IN APPALACHIA

Granville Younce , CFP® Financial Advisor 52 Walnut Street, Suite 6 Waynesville, NC 28786 Office: (828) 456-7407 granville.younce@wfadvisors.com www.home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/granville.younce

Larry East CFP® First Vice President – Investments 52 Walnut St., Suite 6 Waynesville, NC 28786 Office: (828) 456-7407 larry.east@wellsfargoadvisors.com https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/larry.east

Granville Younce , CFP® Financial Advisor 52 Walnut Street, Suite 6 Waynesville, NC 28786 Office: (828) 456-7407 granville.younce@wfadvisors.com www.home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/granville.younce

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2016 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

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• The 22nd annual winter showcase, “A Holiday Concert,” featuring traditional and contemporary favorites by Voices in the Laurel will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at the First Baptist Church in Waynesville.

Voices in the Laurel is a Haywood County based non-profit choir for young people ranging from 1st grade through 12th grade from Haywood, Buncombe, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties under the direction of Martha Brown. Voices in the Laurel is an authentic program that focuses on providing young people quality choral education in fun and innovative ways.

The concert is sponsored by Emily E. Hall, DDS, MPH, PA.

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Larry East CFP® First Vice President – Investments 52 Walnut St., Suite 6 Waynesville, NC 28786 Office: (828) 456-7407 larry.east@wellsfargoadvisors.com https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/larry.east

Smoky Mountain News

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CHRISTMAS, CONTINUED FROM 31

Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door (pending availability). Purchase tickets by calling Corinne Mears at 828.564.3310 or online at www.voicesinthelaurel.org.

• Directed by Kathy Geyer McNeil, the Haywood Community Chorus kicks off the holiday season with its annual Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Sunday Dec. 3, at the Waynesville First United Methodist Church.

The 93-member chorus will perform a variety of seasonal music, featuring John Rutter’s “Magnificat.”

The “Magnificat” is a poetic outpouring of praise, joy, and trust in God, ascribed by Luke to the Virgin Mary on learning that she was to give birth to Christ. Rutter’s “Magnificat” is a musical setting of the biblical canticle, first performed by Rutter at Carnegie Hall in May of 1990.

In addition, the chorus will perform traditional, spiritual, and contemporary music of

the Christmas season, including “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” first recorded in 1963 by Andy Williams, and Craig Courtney’s “Silent Night,” highlighting an exquisite piano introduction.

Director Kathy Geyer McNeil will be joined by guest accompanist Kyle Ritter of All Souls Cathedral in Asheville. The two multitalented musicians will perform together at intermission, and in addition, the chorus will be accompanied by an ensemble of instrumentalists including stings, oboe, flute, harp, percussion, and trumpet.

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

Admission is free; a love offering will be taken.

• The Haywood County Chamber of Commerce “Holiday Chamber Cheer” celebration will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at Laurel Ridge Country Club. Tickets are $40 per person. Cocktails, silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, and more. www.haywoodchamber.com.

• A hearty holiday breakfast, family photos with Santa, Christmas music by the Tuscola Band Ensemble, Christmas carols and bells with the Presbyterian choir, and a Crafter’s Guild holiday boutique will be among the festivities during the fifth annual “Community Christmas Cheer Breakfast” from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the First Presbyterian Church.

This fun-filled family event is serving a “scrumptious” breakfast with egg casseroles, pancakes, bacon, warm cinnamon apples, and beverages. Donations will be appreciated. Located on the corner of Main and Walnut Streets, parking will be available in the Badcock parking lot across the street from the church.

The First Presbyterian Church will be partnering that day with the Downtown Waynesville Association who will be having “Holly Days” on downtown Main Street.

For more information, call 828.734.9003, 828.926.1421 or visit www.fpcwaynesville.org.

WEBSTER • “Toy Jam Seven” will a live performance

by Tribe Called Praise will be held at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Webster Baptist Church. Refreshments, fellowship, and more.

Admission is a new unopened and unwrapped toy.

On the beat

FRANKLIN GETS IN THE TUB

arts & entertainment

Do you like moonshine, country music?

Popular Americana/bluegrass group Ol’ Dirty Bathtub will perform at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, at Currahee Brewing in Franklin. The event is free and open to the public. www.facebook.com/ oldirtybathtub.

Traditional music series features Haywood Ramblers

Local country singer Ryan Perry will host the “Under The Moonshine” single release party from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at Elevated Mountain Distilling in Maggie Valley.

Fatbellys Food Truck will be onsite at 6:30 p.m. Waynesville Soda Jerks will also be serving artisan beverages.

Donations will be accepted for the Haywood County Animal Shelter. www.elevatedmountain.com.

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The 2017-18 First Thursday Old-Time and Bluegrass Series at Western Carolina University continues with a concert featuring the old-time band the Haywood Ramblers on Thursday, Dec. 7, in Cullowhee.

The group’s 7 p.m. performance in the ground-floor auditorium of H.F. Robinson Administration Building will be followed by an 8 p.m. jam session in which local musicians are invited to participate.

Led by two of Western North Carolina’s longtime traditional musicians, Cary Fridley and Travis Stuart, the Haywood Ramblers perform a mix of fiddle and banjo tunes, Baptist spirituals, traditional ballads, Carter family songs and regional compositions.

Raised in the mountains of Virginia, Fridley previously was a member of the critically acclaimed old-time band the Freight Hoppers.

Stuart began playing the banjo as a teenager in Haywood County and learned from old-time music masters such as Red Wilson, the Smathers Family and Snuffy Jenkins.

Sponsored by WCU’s Mountain Heritage Center, the First Thursday concerts and jam sessions will continue through next spring, with programs from 7 to 9 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month. The next event will feature Keith Shuler on Thursday, Feb. 1.

The concerts and jam sessions are free and open to the public. Pickers and singers of all ages and experience levels are invited to take part in the jam sessions, which also are open to those who just want to listen.

For more information, call the Mountain Heritage Center at 828.227.7129.

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arts & entertainment

On the beat • Andrews Brewing Company (Andrews) will host Liz Nance (singer-songwriter) Dec. 2 and Blue Revue 5 p.m. Dec. 9. All shows are free and begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.andrewsbrewing.com.

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host and James Hammel (singer-songwriter) Dec. 1, Joe Cruz (piano/pop) Dec. 2, Kevin Lorenz (singersongwriter) Dec. 8 and Jingle Bell Bash w/Sheila Gordon (piano/vocals) Dec. 9. All shows are free (unless otherwise noted) and begin at 7 p.m.

828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

ALSO:

• Derailed Bar & Lounge (Bryson City) will have music at 7 p.m. on Saturdays.

828.488.8898.

• The First Presbyterian Church (Franklin) will hold a Carenet Benefit Concert at 3 p.m.

Dec. 3. The first $1,000 of donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar. Cookie reception to follow at Tartan Hall.

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Mindframe Dec. 2 and Hunter Grigg (singersongwriter) Dec. 8. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

There will also be a Community Rhythm Circle every Tuesday at 7 p.m. with free drum

34

circle lessons at 6:30 p.m. www.froglevelbrewing.com.

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will have an Open Mic night Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, and a jazz night with the Kittle/Collings Duo Nov. 30 and Dec. 7. All events are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.innovation-brewing.com.

• Isis Music Hall (Asheville) will host Revelator Hill 6:30 p.m. Nov. 30, “Italian Night” with Mike Guggino (of Steep Canyon Rangers) and Barrett Smith 8 p.m. Nov. 30, Victor & Penny 7 p.m. Dec. 1, Seduction Sideshow 9 p.m. Dec. 1-2, Hadley Kennary & Bre Kennedy 7 p.m. Dec. 2, Taylor Martin 5:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Kat Williams & Richard Shulman Trio 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Ian Ethan Case 7 p.m. Dec. 6, David Ramirez 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 6, Joh Doyle 7 p.m. Dec. 7, The Collings Trio 8:30 p.m. Dec. 7 and Jacob Johnson 7 p.m. Dec. 8. For more information about the performances and/or to purchase tickets, click on www.isisasheville.com.

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host Frank Lee & Allie Burbrink (Americana/bluegrass) Dec. 2 and Liz Nance & Friends (Americana/folk) Dec. 9. All shows are free and are from 6 to 9 p.m. www.mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

• Pub 319 (Waynesville) will host an open mic

Bryson City community jam A community music jam will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer, anything unplugged, are invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen.

The jam is facilitated by Larry Barnett of Grampa’s Music in Bryson City.

The community jams offer a chance for musicians of all ages and levels of ability to share music they have learned over the years or learn old-time mountain songs. The music jams are offered to the public each first and third Thursday of the month — yearround. This program received support from the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of North Carolina and the National Endowment of the Arts.

828.488.3030. night from 8 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday with Mike Farrington of Post Hole Diggers. Free and open to the public.

• The Rickman Store (Cowee) will host Seeds of Faith (gospel) and Curtis Blackwell (bluegrass) at 11 a.m. Dec. 2.

• Salty Dog’s (Maggie Valley) will have Karaoke with Jason Wyatt at 8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays, Mile High (classic rock) 8 p.m. Wednesdays, and an Open Jam with Rick 8 p.m. Thursdays.

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host “Hoppy Hour” and an open mic with Susan at 6 p.m. on Thursdays and live music

on Friday evenings. 828.482.9794 or www.satulahmountainbrewing.com.

• Sneak E Squirrel Brewing (Sylva) will host line dancing every Friday at 7 p.m. and contra dancing every other Friday at 8 p.m.

828.586.6440.

• The Strand at 38 Main (Waynesville) will host an “Open Mic” night from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays. 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com.

• The Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host Johnny Monster Band (rock) Dec. 1, The Talent Dec. 2 and a “Toys for Tots” benefit Dec. 9. All shows begin at 10 p.m.

On the street

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arts & entertainment

Gift-wrapping for a good cause

Fri. & Sat. 10-6 • Sun. Noon-5

the store lobby and volunteers will box and wrap the holiday gifts for a donation to Sarge’s.

To sign up, visit: www.signupgenius.com/ go/508094DA8A72BA7FB6-gift. The volunteers are in need of donations of white tissue paper, bows and dispenser Scotch tape rolls.

To help with this project, drop off wrapping materials donations to Sarge’s Adoption Center (256 Industrial Park Drive, Waynesville) from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday or from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, or at Mast General Store after Dec. 2.

Sarge’s mission is to save healthy homeless dogs and cats in Haywood County. Since Sarge’s beginning in 2006, the group has saved more than 8,000 animals. Visit www.sargeanimals.org.

• Wine shops, cafes and cocktail lounges have teamed up for the inaugural “Downtown Sylva Wine Walk” at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 7. Guests will enjoy samples of food and wines at eight venues. Tickets cost $45 or $40 and a donation of a nonperishable food item for The Community Table.

Tickets available at participating businesses. Responsible transportation arrangements are strongly encouraged.

donate items, drop them off at the SCGHS library.

ALSO:

• “Mantra, Music & Mindfulness,” a workshop on mantra practice and kirtan with Amah Devi and Jeremy Staum, will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Waynesville Yoga Center. Cost is $25 per person. www.amahdevi.com.

• The Swain County Genealogical & Historical Society will host its holiday party and silent auction at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Swain County Business Education Center. To

• Sneak E Squirrel Brewing (Sylva) will host the Jackson County Corn Hole Association on Monday evenings ($5 buy in, 100 percent payout), Karaoke with Captain Moose from 7 to 11 p.m. on Tuesdays, Trivia at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and a Guitar Hero Tournament at 7 p.m. on Thursdays. 828.586.6440.

• There will be a free wine tasting from 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 2 and 7 at Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville. www.waynesvillewine.com or 828.452.0120.

• A free wine tasting will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Dec. 2 and 7 at Papou’s Wine Shop in Sylva. www.papouswineshop.com or 828.631.3075.

• Free cooking demonstrations will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturdays at Country Traditions in Dillsboro. Eat samples and taste house wines for $3 a glass. All recipes posted online. www.countrytraditionsnc.com.

(Hwy. 23/74)

Between the Rest Area and the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance at Balsam Gap

828.456.1916 www.muddabbers.com

Smoky Mountain News

• The High Mountain Squares will host their “Toys for Tots Dance” from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Macon County Community Building in Franklin. Admission is a new unwrapped toy. Help support the local Marine Corps Reserve. Western Style Square Dancing, main/stream and plus levels. New dancer lessons will begin Aug. 14. Everyone is welcome. 828.342.1560 or 828.332.0001 or www.highmountainsquares.com.

• “Laughing Balsam Sangha,” a meeting for Mindfullness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, meets will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Mondays at 318 Skyland Drive in Sylva. Included are sitting and walking meditation, and Dharma discussion. Free admission. For more information, call 828.335.8210, and “Like” them on Facebook.

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Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Those looking for a good place to do holiday shopping — plus have the gifts wrapped — will be happy that Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation is doing its annual gift-wrapping project for shoppers at Mast General Store on Main Street in Waynesville.

Sarge’s will be wrapping holiday gifts during regular store hours Dec. 2-24. Organizers are in need of donated wrapping materials and volunteers to work three-hour shifts at Mast.

“Help save an innocent pet’s life,” said Tish O’Connor, co-coordinator of the giftwrapping project. “One hundred percent of the donations go towards taking care of the homeless dogs and cats in Sarge’s care.”

Mast General Store shoppers can bring their purchases to the gift-wrapping table in

Free pottery cup, door prizes & refreshments while supplies last!

35

On the wall arts & entertainment

Waynesville’s ‘Art After Dark’ The final “Art After Dark” of the year will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in downtown Waynesville.

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

Participants include Haywood County Arts Council Gallery, Burr Studio, Earthworks Gallery, The Jeweler’s Workbench, Twigs & Leaves Gallery, TPennington Art Gallery, Cedar Hill Studios, JoRidge Kelley/Earthstar Studios, Moose Crossing Burl Wood Gallery, and the Village Framer.

“Art After Dark” is free to attend. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Native American exhibitions at WCU In the WCU Fine Art Museum main gallery through Dec. 8 is the nationally traveling exhibition “Return from Exile: Contemporary Southeastern Indian Art,” curated by Tony A. Tiger, Bobby C. Martin, and Jace Weaver.

The exhibition features more than 30 contemporary Southeastern Native American artists working in a variety of media including painting, drawing, printmaking, basketry, sculpture, and pottery. “Return from Exile” is one of the first major exhibitions to focus on contemporary artists from tribal nations with

Fine Art Museum new acquisitions

The Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at the Bardo Arts Center will present the exhibition “WCU Collects: Recent Acquisitions” through Jan. 26 in Cullowhee.

This WCU Collects exhibition showcases a selection of artworks recently given to the museum and includes a number of artists not previously represented in the collection.

The WCU Fine Art Museum stewards a collection of more than 1,500 art objects in all media — from painting and printmaking to book arts, sculpture, ceramics, and contemporary craft. As the museum continues to research and interpret the collection, purchases and gifts expand and strengthen its holdings. New acquisitions find their way into the collection through a variety of routes and particularly through the generosity of donors.

All WCU Fine Art Museum exhibitions are free and open to the public. For further information, please visit go.wcu.edu/wcucollects or call 828.227.3591.

The WCU Fine Art Museum boasts four 36 art galleries with exhibitions year-round.

Smoky Mountain News

‘It’s a Small, Small Work’ exhibit

an historical connection to the Southeastern United States. These include the so-called Five Civilized Tribes, the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Cherokee, and Muscogee (or Creek), and Seminole, all of whom were forcibly removed in the 1830s to present-day Oklahoma as a result of the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The title of the exhibition represents the return of these artists to their ancestral homelands.

The WCU Fine Art Museum received a $25,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to host this exhibition and organize a one-day symposium focused on contemporary Native American art, which occurred on Nov. 10. www.wcu.edu.

The Museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. www.wcu.edu.

Want to make a glass ornament?

There will be glass ornament workshops held Nov. 30 and Dec. 2, 5, 7 and 9 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Sylva.

With the assistance of one of our resident artists, participants will work with molten glass to create a unique and beautiful piece of glass art.

The glass blowing sessions last 30 minutes.

In each session, you’ll learn the basics of working with glass, some of the history of glass blowing, and important safety guidelines.

Ages 13-18 may participate with parent present. Dress in cotton clothing (no polyester); wear closed shoes and long pants.

Glass artwork available for pickup 48 hours after class.

Walk-in’s are welcome, but space is limited. Payment due at registration.

Time slots are a half-hour. Each slot is

The Haywood County Arts Council annual show, “It’s a Small, Small Work,” will be held through Dec. 23 in HCAC Gallery & Gifts in Waynesville.

The show provides a unique opportunity for budding artists to exhibit their work, as well as the opportunity for more seasoned artists to test their boundaries.

All pieces submitted are exactly 12” or smaller in every dimension, including base, matting, and frame. All art work is for sale, priced at $300 or less, and must have been created in the last two years. Commission will be the gallery’s usual 60 percent (artist) to 40 percent (HCAC) split.

The Haywood County Arts Council’s small work show was launched in 2008 to demonstrate that original artwork is affordable and fun. Most businesses, homes and apartments can accommodate smaller works of art — and the show promotes buying local and regional work to help support artists in Western North Carolina.

For more information, www.haywoodarts.org or 828.452.0593.

$30 per person. For more information on the class schedules and to register, call 828.631.0271 or visit www.jcgep.org.

• Wire artist Lawrie Williams will host a “Holiday Ornament Wire Art” class from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office in Sylva. The project this month will focus on colored wire Christmas ornaments, including a wire angel formed on a jig, wire stars and a wire Christmas tree. You can also make your own unique free form ornaments as well. Great gift idea. Call the Jackson Extension Office at 828.586.4009 to reserve your spot. The cost is only $10 and all supplies are included.

ALSO:

• The new folk art exhibit, “Cornbread,” is now showing at Urban Orchard Cider Company in West Asheville.

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

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

• “Paint Nite Waynesville” will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursdays (Nov. 30) at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville. Sign up for either event on the Paint Night Waynesville Facebook page or call Robin Arramae at 828.400.9560. paintnitewaynesville@gmail.com.

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

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

On the wall arts & entertainment

Open call for Sylva mural

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Smoky Mountain News

or simple pattern for easier maintenance.

Artist finalists may propose design concepts with a final project budget of up to $10,000. The final proposed project budget must be inclusive of all fees, including but not limited to design fees, costs for installation, materials, administrative costs, insurance and all travel expenses related to the project upon artist selection through completion of the project. Artists will be required to meet the town’s insurance requirements.

The Town of Sylva follows the definition of an artist as being a professional practitioner in the arts, generally recognized by his or her peers as possessing serious intent and ability. Any artist team 18 years of age or older who are authorized to work in the United States are eligible to apply.

Preference will be given to artists residing in Jackson, Haywood, Macon, Buncombe, and Swain counties. Secondary preference will be given to residents within a 300-mile radius.

Deadline for submission is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15. Applications and materials must be received by this date and time to be considered. Include the following in the subject line: Downtown Sylva Mural Project.

For questions about submissions, what is expected in each submission or to confirm receipt of materials, contact Sylva Town Manager Paige Dowling at 828.586.2719 or townmanager@townofsylva.org. Please include the following in the subject line: “Downtown Sylva Mural Project.”

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

The Town of Sylva and the Sylva Public Art Committee invite artists or artist teams to submit qualifications for an artist to develop a mural concept and for installation of mural by artist(s) on the wall of Ward Plumbing & Heating on Mill Street in downtown Sylva.

An artist or artist team is being selected to develop the first public mural downtown.

The mural concept is for the artist to create mural representative of a vintage postcard that is engaging and representative of the community. The Public Art Committee envisions a historic postcard with the letters of Sylva filled with five of our community’s attributes. The Town of Sylva and Public Art Committee will consider other mural concepts that are representative of the community. If interested and schedule permitting, the artist may have the opportunity to work with art students at Western Carolina University to engage more of the community. Artists should indicate whether they are interested in this in the artist statement.

Once the concept is reviewed by the Sylva Public Art Committee and the Board of Commissioners, the artist will be responsible for materials as well as the labor to paint the approved mural onto the wall. Please note the specifications on the attached drawing including the surface area of the block wall at approximately 53 feet in length and a height of 21 feet eight inches. The town asks that the top of the wall remain a solid color

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Smoky Mountain News Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

arts & entertainment

On the stage arts & entertainment

Ready for rapid-fire tap dancing?

Rhythmic Circus.

WCU ‘Fall Dance Showcase’

included the development of a written proposal, four students — Darius “D.J.” Williams, Rebecca Chisholm, Marthaluz Velez and Caleb Warren — were chosen to cast and create their own choreography for the showcase, with Velez and Warren collaborating on their work. The three pieces will feature student costume designers Erynn Vickery, Kyla Little and Megan Shaw, along with student lighting designer Reed Simiele.

The showcase also includes one dance work choreographed by dance instructor Patricia Renshaw that will feature eight student dancers and two faculty dancers. The student stage manager for the showcase is Kacey Shepherd.

Admission is $1 cash at the door, with donations of higher amounts accepted. For more information, contact Wasmund at 828.227.3672 or amwasmund@wcu.edu.

Nine dance works that have been included in the Western Carolina University Dance Program’s studio courses this semester will be featured as students and faculty present the Fall Dance Showcase at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in Hoey Auditorium.

The nine dance pieces will reflect material covered in the courses and fulfill a final performance requirement for dance students, said Ashlee Wasmund, assistant professor and coordinator of the university’s programs in musical theatre and dance.

Also on the agenda are three works choreographed by students, with themes ranging from immigration to female empowerment.

After going through a selection process that

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Smoky Mountain News

soldier attire, perform a syncopated percussive dance sequence at eye-popping speeds.

Along with the group’s festive display in this performance, Heat Box, the human beat box, presents his own version of “Mr. Grinch.”

The song originates from the book and television special of “How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” and adds the perfect twist to complete this upbeat, holiday show.

Tickets to the performance are $25 for the general public, $20 for WCU/SCC faculty and staff, and $5 for WCU/SCC students.

For tickets and further information, visit arts.wcu.edu/tribe or call 828.227.ARTS. This performance is a co-production with the WCU Arts & Cultural Events Committee; a collective of students, faculty, and staff here at Western Carolina University that exists to create opportunities for students to encounter the arts here at Western, around the region, and beyond. Special thanks to The Ascent Partnership between Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals and Western Carolina University for their continued support.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

The rapid-fire tap dancing squad Rhythmic Circus will perform a special holiday show “Red and Green” at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the Bardo Arts Center in Cullowhee.

As part of the 2017-2018 WCU PRESENTS Performance Series, this performance is a co-production with WCU Arts & Cultural Events (ACE).

The four world-renowned hoofers of Rhythmic Circus who brought you “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now” with their seven-piece band, fuse their signature style of rapid-fire tap into holiday classics with a twist to bring you “Red and Green” — a song and dance filled celebration of the holiday season the entire family can enjoy together.

“Red and Green” captures the spirit of the holiday with a beatboxing rendition of “The Grinch,” a full-cast performance of “Linus and Lucy” (A Charlie Brown Christmas), five new originals, and a bright mash-up medley titled “Toy Soldier March.”

This march is a highlight of the show as dancers and musicians adorned in colorful

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Books

Smoky Mountain News

Plott hounds hold unique place in WNC history had my first encounter with a prize-winning Plott hound several years ago when I was hosting a Liars Bench program at Western Carolina University. I had asked David Brewin to bring Nannie, his Plott hound, to the program.

As I remember it now, Nannie was not on a leash, but it seemed unnecessary. She came and sat by David and surveyed the people in the audience, her dark brendle coat shimmering under the lights. No stranger to crowds, she was calm, Writer even composed and she seemed to briefly study each individual on the crowded stage.

When she looked at me, I was immediately aware that I was being studied (assessed) by an intelligent creature. No tail thumping or fawning, just a cool stare. I was seated nearby on the “liar’s bench,” and the program’s mascot, a life-sized, stuffed German Shepherd named Bodine, was sitting by me.

As Nannie surveyed the performers around her, her gaze halted on the big, fake German shepherd. She got up and walked over to Bodine. Silence fell on the stage as Nannie stood regarding Bodine’s stupid, smiling face. Then, she bent and sniffed his butt.

Nannie gave a little snort and returned to her place by David where she gave Bodine a look of withering contempt. Then, she gave me a look that plainly said, “THAT is not even a dog.”

What is different about a Plott dog? Strike and Stay is Bob Plott’s definitive book that reveals, not only why the breed bears his name, but how two 18th century brothers (the sons of a Rhine Valley gamekeeper),

Gary Carden

I

brought five valuable hunting dogs with them and traveled to “the new world.” It is an astonishing story.

Traditionally, migrants came bearing the tools of their trade, the hammers, knives and weavers’ looms. The Plott brothers brought

Richardson book release, Gruen Q&A The book launch of Kim Michele Richardson’s new novel The Sisters of Glass Ferry will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

The book has earned an “Okra Pick” award and has been

five hunting dogs which probably had “Hanoverian bloodlines,” but in the opinion of the author, they probably contained a “mix” of a number of breeds. They were examples of seasoned hunting dogs who would insure their masters’ survival because of their skills in tracking and bringing down deer, bear. If need be, they could herd sheep and pigs.

Those five dogs not only survived; they flourished. In time they would play a vital part in Appalachian history and so would their owners.

The author’s research has uncovered a wealth of folklore and history concerning the dogs exploits, such as the story of lefthanded Amos Plott, the grandson of one of the original brothers, George Plott) and his dog Porter, that died fighting a bear. Amos avenged Porter’s death by wrapping his right arm in protective covering and attacking the bear with only his left-handed hunting knife.

described as a haunting portrait of life in the backwoods of moonshine country in the mid-20th century.

Bestselling author of Water For Elephants, Sara Gruen will join Richardson to celebrate the release of The Sisters of Glass Ferry and to talk about books and writing.

Gruen had this to say about The Sisters of Glass Ferry, “An emotionally resonant tale of secrets, regret, and absolution that held me spellbound. You simply have to read it.”

Strike and Stay contains numerous stories told by a host of noted hunters and woodsmen, such as Mark Cathey and Quill Rose, who notes that a Plott hound will “carry a grudge.” If a young Plott hound loses a fight, he will bide his time until an opportunity comes to avenge his defeat. There is evidence that a Plott that herds sheep or pigs will take note of a missing animals and go in search of them. All owners attest to the fact that Plott hounds “bond” with their masters and will protect them from attack, even if they die as a result.

The early history of Western North Carolina cannot be told without noting the persistent presence of Plott hounds. The achievements of noted explorers such as Guyot and the famous controversy attending Mitchell and Clingman’s conflicting claims about the highest peaks ... regardless of the purpose of these expeditions, the Plott hounds were there. In time, the most noted of these explorers acknowledged the fact that they owned much of their success to Plott hounds with their reputations for stamina, courage and dependability.

However, in addition to chronicling these feats, the author provides extensive information about the Plott family members who not only preserved the bloodlines of the Plott, but probably improved or “enhanced” them.

There is considerable controversy here.

Some Plott breeders “improved” their bloodlines by including the traits of other noted hunting dogs, (such as the “leopard” Plott, which has different markings and traits.)

According to the author, there is even evidence of the inclusion of wolf blood lines, which for a time was evident by producing Plott hounds with yellow eyes!

Such experimentation was carried out by members of the Plott family and other breeders. At times, the results

F

There will be plenty of Sisters of Glass Ferry-themed snacks and goodies available as well.

Richardson is a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and an advocate for the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence. She is also the author of the novels God Pretty in the Tobacco Field and Liar’s Bench. Additionally, Richardson is a book critic for The New York Journal Of Books, and a contributor to HuffPost.

To reserve copies of the books, call 828.586.9499.

• The “Grand Reopening” of Blue Ridge Books will be from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at 428 Hazelwood Avenue in Waynesville. 828.456.6000 or www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

ALSO:

• Jay Watson, the Howry Professor of Faulkner Studies at the University of Mississippi, will be giving a talk at 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, in Coulter 304 on the Western Carolina University campus. His title is “William Faulkner’s Great War Modernism: ‘New Death’ in Soldiers’ Pay.” The talk is open to the public. Please contact Mae Miller Claxton atmclaxton@email.wcu.edu with questions.

• City Lights Bookstore (Sylva) 19th annual “Giving Tree” program is now underway. They have partnered with local service agencies that have offered anonymous lists of children in need this holiday season.

You can help by providing that child with the gift of a good read. Come by the store and select an ornament from the “Giving Tree” and match-up a book for the age, gender and language listed. They will collect all the books and give them to the agencies in time for the children to receive books for Christmas. All “Giving Tree” purchases will receive a 20 percent discount. For more details, call 828.586.9499.

books Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017 Smoky Mountain News

caused dissension among some owners (including the Plott family) who took pride in what they considered “untainted” bloodlines. Some breeders even speak contemptuously of Plott “hounds” characteristics and consider “cur” qualities to be more desirable.

Despite this controversy, the reputation of the Plott line continued to flourish, and in 1935 a legendary bear hunt in Hazel Creek brought the Plott bear dog national attention. Organized by a professional baseball Hall of Fame member named Branch Rickey, the hunt included two Plott family notables, Von and Little George Plott. This event became a record-setting hunt that contained over 18 “notable” Plott dogs and netted eight bears killed (jumped 20) and lasted three days.

In conclusion, the author of Strike and Stay not only provides a comprehensive history of the Plott hound in Appalachia, the author also provides a detailed history of what he considers to be Appalachia’s most venerable Plott breeders and their friends.

Throughout this book, Bob Plott pays tribute to what he calls “The Big Five.” They are as follows: n John and Vaughn Plott: These two brothers are classic examples of opposing views about Plott blood lines and infusions of “outside” stock such as the leopard Plott which was bitterly opposed by Vaughn and accepted by John. Despite their opposing views, both men were dedicated to the preservation of the Plott hound. n Gola Ferguson: The author dubs Gola as a “renaissance man,” a distinction that he richly deserves. Teacher, Swain county sheriff, gifted storyteller and public speaker, Gola was also an accomplished luthier, or violin make. Ferguson also ran for Congress in 1942. Gola’s dedication to hunting lead him to maintaining 20 to 30 Plott hounds and is credited with developing his own unique breed of Plotts. n Howe-Taylor Crockett: Howe-Taylor spent much of his life in Waynesville but became noted for his athletic abilities at Brevard College. He became an ardent hunter of Plott hounds and participated in some 50 hunts for wild boars. A highly decorated soldier, Howe-Taylor was awarded two Purple Hearts during WWII for his service in Africa, Sicily and Italy. After the war, he became a dedicated breeder of a remarkable Plott hound bloodline. n Isaiah Kidd: Born in Beckley, West Virginia, Isaiah acquired some North Carolina Plott hounds at an early age and became a respected breeder and hunter who often ventured into the rugged North Carolina mountains on hunting trips. His detailed records, which he maintained for 40 years, have proven him to be one of the region’s most accomplished Plott breeders.

In addition, Strike and Stay is generously illustrated with photographs of the famous Plotts, both dog and family. The book contains information gleaned from Foxfire and noted publications dealing with hunting and breeding. Of especial interest are accounts of the origin of a wildlife preserve in Graham County and the use of Plott hounds in the hunting of wild boar ... a significant event that deserves its own book.

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42

Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

A 1,000-TREE GOAL The ash borer lays its eggs in the trees’ cambium, the layer of living tissue underneath the bark. The larvae chew away at that tissue as they develop, and when they eventually emerge as adult beetles, they spend the rest of their lives munching on ash leaves.

Once the EAB arrives in a region, all the ash trees around are doomed to die.

Unless, that is, the trees receive a treatment to keep the EAB at bay. MountainTrue hopes to save the ash tree population in WNC by raising money to keep 1,000 standing ash trees alive.

“The ultimate goal is that after EAB moves through Western North Carolina that there will still be trees around to reseed their genetics into the forest and hopefully maintain as much of our native Southern Appalachian ash genetics as we can,” Kelly said.

Keeping ash in the Smokies Land managers, conservation groups work to protect ash from invasive pest

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER t some point roughly 20 years ago, a shipment from Asia arrived in the United States with a passel of six-legged stowaways lurking in its wooden pallets. Since it was first detected near Detroit in 2002, the emerald ash borer has gnawed its way through ash trees across North America, leaving a swath of destruction across 31 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces — and counting.

The EAB was first spotted in North Carolina in 2013, when it was confirmed in Granville, Person, Vance and Warren counties, a contiguous area in the central part of the state bordering Virginia. Now it’s present in 33 of the state’s 100 counties and continues to spread. WNC counties with confirmed ash borer infestations are Haywood, Swain, Macon, Graham, Buncombe, Madison, Mitchell and Yancey counties — this month, the N.C. Forest Service found EAB on several trees in the Alarka area of Swain County after the beetle was initially found in Bryson City last summer.

“Once you can actually notice that a tree has EAB, it’s almost too late to save them,”

A

Rob Kelly inspects a tree affected by emerald ash borer.

Donated photo

Josh Kelly (left) works with an intern from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to treat an ash tree. Donated photo said Josh Kelly, biologist for MountainTrue.

“You almost have to detect ash borer as they get to the site or before they get there to have a shot at saving the tree.”

With no escape in sight for ash trees in WNC, that’s just what MountainTrue along with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and with support from the U.S Forest Service, is trying to accomplish.

That’s a daunting task. First off, treating ash trees is expensive. Costs vary based on the size of the tree, but with the type of treatment MountainTrue plans to use, it would cost about $120 to treat a 2-foot diameter tree for five years. Treatments must be given annually, and many of the trees MountainTrue hopes to save stand in out-of-the-way places accessible only by hiking.

Stop the emerald ash borer Since its arrival from Asia, the emerald ash borer has continued to disburse throughout North America, but everyone can play a part in slowing the spread. n Don’t move firewood. Much of the emerald ash borer’s spread has been facilitated by people moving firewood from contaminated areas to non-contaminated areas. Always use locally felled or kilndried firewood, and don’t transport untreated firewood across state and county lines. n Report new infestations. Ash trees infested by the EAB will have thinning and dying crowns with increased woodpecker activity and D-shaped holes in the bark of about one-eighth of an inch where adult beetles have exited the trees. Sprouting from the main stem and observable tunnels on the inside of the bark where the larvae have fed will also be evident. Report infestations to your county’s N.C. Forest Service ranger office. n Stay informed. Obey firewood quarantines such as the one currently in effect prohibiting any hardwood firewood from North Carolina to be transported outside the state. Complete information on the EAB and up-to-date infestation maps and quarantines are online at www.emeraldashborer.info.

Treating 1,000 trees for five years would require raising $120,000. So far, MountainTrue has raised only $5,000, supplied by a grant from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy that allowed the organization to inventory a 10-mile section of the A.T. for ash trees and give one-year treatments to more than 200 trees. However, MountainTrue is currently applying for additional funds from other sources and hopes to launch a crowdfunding campaign soon.

“It’s going to take years of fundraising and years of dedicated effort,” Kelly said. “That’s the writing on the wall.”

PRIORITIZING TREATMENT Kelly hopes that the need to treat ash trees will one day come to an end.

“Its entire life cycle is dependent on the ash tree,” he said of the borer. “If there are no ash trees left, it doesn’t have a home.”

Unlike the hemlock wooly adelgid — another invasive pest decimating North American trees — the emerald ash borer can only inhabit trees that are at least 1 inch in diameter, as the tree has to be large enough to have a cambium layer capable of supporting larvae. The thought is that once the ash borer has eaten all the trees in a region capable of supporting its life cycle, it could disappear from the area. When that happens, the 1,000 trees treated by MountainTrue will still be around to regenerate the population.

But nobody knows for sure that’s how it will play out.

“We don’t know if EAB is going to eat itself out of house and home completely,” Kelly said.

Looking at places in the Midwest that saw the ash borer arrive earlier than did North Carolina, he said, it seems that the insect is not coming back immediately. But it’s too soon to know for sure, and opinion on the question is not universal.

“I don’t think that they are going to completely disappear,” said Glenn Taylor, a biologist with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. “That’s the concern we have.

They will probably be in some areas that haven’t been infested yet and still be able to jump back into an area that has only the surviving trees around it.”

Much of the ash borer’s spread across the continent has been facilitated by people unknowingly moving infested firewood and other untreated wood products. EAB may vanish from a local area when all the ash trees are gone, Taylor said, but there’s nothing to stop it returning later the same way it initially arrived.

That doesn’t mean that Taylor — or the park in general — sees treating ash trees as a lost cause. To the contrary, the Smokies has a robust ash program that treats 300 trees each year with a chemical that protects them from invasion for two to three years. Like the effort MountainTrue is spearheading, the program is expensive, and there’s no funding in the federal budget. The park’s nonprofit partner Friends of the Smokies is

Winter bike league launches in Asheville

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Smoky Mountain News

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62 Communications Dr., Waynesville • Hours By Appointment

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

small portion of the forest cover we have in funding the $15,000 annual cost.

Western North Carolina, but I believe the While MountainTrue’s focus is on old saying that if we’re going to manage stands of ash growing within the forest, lands and tinker with the land, we need to treatments in the Smokies concentrate on keep all the pieces, and ash is one of the roadsides and frontcountry recreation pieces of our forest,” Kelly said, referencing areas. the words of renowned conservationist “We’ve been treating along main busy Aldo Leopold. roadways like U.S. 441 and in busy picnic Some components of the ash’s ecological areas and campgrounds that have signifiimportance are well known, however. They cant ash,” Taylor said. “Some don’t have provide habitat for many types of animals, any ash, but some places like the Chimneys Picnic Area have nearly 70 ash trees within falling Matt Drury of the distance.”

Appalachian Trail The park contains Conservancy treats an more than 800 square ash tree with the help of miles of land, and since it three interns. Donated photo would be impossible to find and treat all the ash trees growing on that landscape, staff have to prioritize which trees receive treatment. When ash trees get infested and die, they eventually fall down, presenting a safety hazard. That’s why hightraffic areas like picnic areas are first in line for treatment. However, the park has also been treating some backcountry trees — big, old trees and their seeds are an important food 50 and 60 inches in diameter that are espesource. More than 60 insect species depend cially valuable to the park’s beauty and ecolon them for survival. Unfortunately, treatogy. ing trees may not save those insects, as the “One spot in Cataloochee has trees up to pesticides use to kill the EAB could harm 60 inches in diameter,” Taylor said. “There’s them too. pretty massive trees up there and the areas Ash trees are also important as a fastaround those aren’t disturbed, so if those growing tree capable of growing up in disash trees were to die, that would change.” turbed areas, such as recently burned or logged acreage. Such areas are also a favorite for many invasive species, like ORTH SAVING kudzu and ailanthus, and land managers often struggle to keep these unwanted The ash tree is just one of more than 100 species from encroaching when an opening native tree species in Western North crops up. This makes native species, like Carolina. But keeping it around is imporash, that are capable of filling this role all tant, because — as in every environment — the more important. each species has a unique niche to fill and a “I think it’s worth trying to save ash job to do within the surrounding landscape. trees,” Kelly said. “They’re beautiful, eco“I don’t necessarily know if we have a nomically, ecologically and aesthetically good handle on how ecologically important important trees.” they (ash trees) are. They’re a relatively

outdoors

The Asheville Winter Bike League has kicked off its 2017-2018 season, with structured group rides offered weekly starting at 10 a.m.

A group of riders embarks on every Saturday through Jan. 28.

Participants in these road routes will an Asheville Winter Bike split up into A, B and C groups so that League route Nov. 25. Donated photo riders of various skill levels can participate. According to the website, the rides “are not designed to drop riders, but neither do we coddle the masses. The goal is to ride at a smooth and steady tempo, not too fast or too slow, avoiding rapid accelerations and decelerations, for the entirety of the ride.” A support vehicle will accompany all rides.

Participation is free, but riders are asked to donate a few dollars to the support drivers for each outing, with donations accepted at sign-up. Routes will begin at various places in Buncombe and Transylvania Counties, with the next one slated for Saturday, Dec. 2, at Carmichael Training Systems in Brevard. idaph.net/idream-athletes-foundation/asheville-winter-bike-league.

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outdoors

Hike the Nantahala The Nantahala Hiking Club will offer a choice of hikes this weekend, with excursions offered both Saturday and Sunday. n On Saturday, Dec. 2, a 6-mile hike via Long Branch Trail will lead to Long Branch Shelter on the Appalachian Trail, with return on an old logging road leading to Blackwell Gap horse trail and Long Branch. The group will leave from Franklin at 9 a.m. The hike is rated as moderate with 1,000 feet of elevation change.

The Appalachian Sign up with Bill Trail near Wayah and Sharon Van Bald. SMN photo Horn, 828.369.1983. n On Sunday, Dec. 3, an easy 3.5-mile hike on the Wayah Bald Loop Trail will offer gorgeous views of winter mountains.

The route will lead from Wayah Tower on the Appalachian Trail down to the junc-

tion with the Bartram Trail, where it will loop for a gorgeous view from the bald before returning to the tower. The group will leave from Franklin at 2 p.m. RSVP to Gail Lehman, 828.524.5298.

Visitors welcome, but no dogs. A full schedule of hikes is online at www.nantahalahikingclub.org.

A hike with a view A 7-mile hike in the Fontana Dam area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will finish with a million-dollar view from Shuckstack Fire Tower on Saturday, Dec. 2.

This Appalachian Trail hike, rated as moderate to strenuous, will begin at 8 a.m. with a return estimated at 4 p.m.

Organized by the Great Smoky Mountains Association, the hike will be led by Chris Hoge of Wildland Trekking. $10 for GSMA members; $35 for nonmembers with one-year membership included. Hikers are responsible for bringing their own gear and food. Sign up at http://conta.cc/2BcMAZh.

Hear from a fisheries expert

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

The man in charge of fisheries management in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will speak at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the United Community Bank in Sylva.

Mat Kulp is the supervisory fisheries biologist at the park. His talk will be accompanied by a raffle for a fly rod handmade by Whittier resident Jim Mills and dinner.

The talk is offered as part of the regular monthly meeting of the Tuckaseigee River Chapter of Trout Unlimited, which serves Jackson, Macon and Swain counties. Visitors welcome. Dinner is $5.

Hiker finishes fundraising Mountains-to-Sea hike Record-breaking hiker Jennifer Pharr Davis completed her 1,175-mile adventure on the Mountains-to-Sea trail Saturday, Nov. 18, just in time for Thanksgiving.

Davis set out on her adventure Aug. 15 from Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hiking all the way to Jockey’s Ridge in the Outer Banks in an effort to commemorate the MST’s 40th anniversary and raise money for its continued maintenance and construction. Her

husband Brew and their two children — ages 4 and 11 months — accompanied her for a portion of that distance.

In 2011, Davis finished the Appalachian Trail with the fastest time ever recorded.

While that record was surpassed in 2015, she is still well known in the hiking world and recently published the book Families on Foot.

Davis recorded her journey at www.JPDhikestheMST.org. Donate to the MST at www.mountainstoseatrail.org.

Get the scoop on section hiking Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is getting a lot of press these days, but for those who are interested in tackling the trail in shorter pieces, a talk offered 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, at REI in Asheville will give some pointers.

Instructor Patrick Wright will discuss how section hiking — the practice of hiking the trail piece by piece over a period of years — can be a fantastic adventure that turns you into a skilled hiker.

Free, with space limited. Sign up at www.rei.com/learn.html.

SENIOR TRIP TO DOLLYWOOD December 11

Depart: 10 a.m. • Return: 10:30 p.m. $

10 for members of the WRC | $12 for non-members

(plus cost of tickets and food)

WAYNESVILLE

PARKS AND RECREATION 44

Jennifer Pharr Davis reaches the ocean. Donated photo

828.456.2030

Hike to the cookies The Carolina Mountain Club will hold its annual cookie hike at Bent Creek on Wednesday, Dec. 6, with two different routes offered.

A longer 7-mile hike will commence at 8:30 a.m., using a variety of short trail sections to hike up the Mountains-to-Sea Trail past Sleepy Gap and then descend via the Stambaugh Trail to Lake Powhatan Picnic Area for lunch and a cookie feast.

Those looking for a shorter excursion

can join the 4-mile version that starts at 10 a.m. The route starts on the Lake Powhatan Connector and ends at the picnic area, where hikers will meet the group doing the longer route for lunch and cookies.

Participants should pack a lunch and bring cookies to share. No dogs. Visitors welcome but RSVP is required. Contact Ken Deal for the 7-mile hike at 828.274.7070 or cnkdeal@charter.net. Contact Diane Stickney for the 4-mile hike at 828.254.9054 or magenta97@charter.net.

@SmokyMtnNews

North Carolina’s Dry-Cleaning Solvent Cleanup Act Program has hit its 20th anniversary, and since that time the program has handled 466 reports of contaminated sites.

“The Dry-Cleaning Solvent Cleanup Act Program is an integral component in creating a healthy environment for future generations,” said Michael Regan, secretary for the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality.

“It works to remove harmful soil and groundwater contamination to clean up areas so they can be used again for new businesses and helps small business owners continue to thrive, supporting North Carolina’s healthy economy.”

Of the 466 sites reported since 1997, 406 were certified into the program, allowing use of DSCA Program funds to clean them up.

Currently, 283 sites are in active assessment

or remediation, with 72 sites successfully remediated in the past 20 years and another 48 pending closure from the program.

The dry-cleaning process involves the use of solvents that can contaminate the surrounding environment. The DSCA Program cleans up contaminated sites and works with dry-cleaners to prevent future contamination.

The legislation also created a fund to help with remediation.

One of the properties cleaned up so far is the former Crisp Cleaners site in Asheville, which was originally a gas station and then became a dry-cleaners and then a heating and cooling store. It became a certified site in 2012, with initial assessment showing contamination in soils and groundwater onsite.

The DSCA Program worked with the owner to dig out contaminated soil, install a treatment system and ensure the new building would be safe for reuse. A restaurant opened on the site in 2016. www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/wastemanagement/dry-cleaning-solvent-cleanupact-program.

outdoors

Dry-cleaning cleanup program celebrates 20 years of success

Spend winter with Leopold A wintry talk drawing from the work of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold will be held at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church in Sylva.

Rob Hawk, director of the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service in Jackson and Swain counties, will present Leopold’s essay “December: Pines Above Snow.”

The talk is offered as part of the Sylva Garden Club’s regular monthly meeting, with refreshments served and a brief business meeting included with the morning. Visitors welcome, and new members encouraged. No green thumb is required to join the club.

Tremont gets $20,000 A $20,000 donation to the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont from Brookfield Renewable will give low-income kids in the area the chance to attend one of the residential outdoor education programs offered at Tremont.

“As a renewable energy company that places the utmost value on biodiversity and promoting a safe, sustainable environment, we saw Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont as a natural partner. The Institute and their staff provide an invaluable service in teaching children how interesting the world and environment around us is,” said David Harris, Brookfield Renewable Director of Operations, Atlantic South Region.

Tremont programs promote self-discovery, critical thinking and effective teaching methods to engage students in nature — and nearly 70 percent of participants get financial support from donors like Brookfield toward their participation.

Tremont is a nonprofit organization located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Townsend, Tennessee. www.gsmit.org

Smoky Mountain News

A multi-year effort to restore forest landscapes in the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest has won the 2017 Restored and Resilient Landscapes Award from the U.S. Forest Service Southern Region.

Since 2012, the Grandfather Restoration Collaborative has been working on restoration projects across the district. Now only six years into the eight-year project timeframe, the project has already exceeded its restoration goal of 40,000 acres. These projects include removing dense understory fuels to reduce wildfire risk, restoring shortleaf pines to sites they would historically have been found, increasing wildlife openings and forage, treating hemlocks against the hemlock wooly adelgid, creating a sustainable trail system and improving the health of rivers and watersheds.

“The collaborative group’s dedication has been key to achieving these amazing accomplishments. Partners have devoted an enormous amount of time and resources to supporting projects that result in a healthier, more diverse forest,” said District Ranger Nick Larson. “We have demonstrated through collaboration the pace and scale of restoration activities can increase significantly.”

The group includes an array partners, including the Foothills Land Conservancy, MountainTrue, National Wild Turkey Foundation, N.C. Forest Service, N.C. State

Parks, N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission, Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards, Southern Environmental Law Center, The Nature Conservancy, The Wilderness Society, Western Carolina University and Wild South. www.fs.usda.gov/goto/nfcnc/gfproject.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

Forest restoration partnership wins award

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outdoors

Fires Creek purchase completed After raising more than half a million dollars to protect 50 pristine acres in the Fires Creek watershed, Mainspring Conservation Trust acquired the property on Monday, Nov. 20.

The land trust bought the Clay County parcels from four landowners, paying a fair market value for the land surrounded on all sides by the Nantahala National Forest. A

The view from the newly conserved property along Fires Creek. Donated photo

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

$500,000 pledge from environmental philanthropists Fred and Alice Stanback paid for most of the cost, but a successful fundraising campaign drew support from many local donors to cover the remaining $25,000 cost.

“We are excited the water quality of Laurel Creek flowing into Fires Creek will be protected and the Rim Trail rerouted so people can once again be able to enjoy that beautiful hike,” said Mainspring Director Sharon Taylor. “It is a win-win for everyone, especially the public, as it puts to rest years of controversy over the proposed road, and prevents possible future litigation.”

The parcels’ previous owners acquired this in-holding of the national forest in 2006, drawing criticism when they petitioned the Forest Service for access to build a road to their land. The property had also contained more than one-third of a mile of the popular Fires Creek Rim Trail before it was rerouted to bypass the private land.

The conservation purchase happened as Mainspring developed a positive relationship with the landowners, working out an agreement for purchase and raising the funds to complete it.

Mainspring currently holds title to the land but hopes to eventually transfer it to the U.S. Forest Service to become part of the Nantahala National Forest.

{Celebrating the Southern Appalachians}

Smoky Mountain Living celebrates the mountain region’s culture, music, art, and special places. We tell our stories for those who are lucky enough to live here and those who want to stay in touch with the place they love.

Subscribe or learn more at smliv.com MAGAZINE

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A worker stabilizes the base of one of the tower’s columns. NPS photo

Rehabilitation almost done at Clingmans Dome Clingmans Dome Tower reopened from a closure for rehabilitation work on Wednesday, Nov. 15, but access will be short-lived — the annual closure of Clingmans Dome Road will begin on Friday, Dec. 1, with reopening scheduled for April 1, 2018.

The bulk of the rehabilitation project is complete, but the final surface overlay still needs to be done — the tower will close for about two weeks in the springtime for this work to take place. So far, deteriorated areas on concrete columns and walls have been repaired, support walls have been stabilized at the ramp’s base and stone masonry has been repaired.

The work is funded through a Partners in Preservation grant that awarded

Smokies to upgrade wastewater facilities A proposal to upgrade the wastewater treatment plant serving Elkmont Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open for comment through Sunday, Dec. 10.

Treated effluent from the Elkmont Wastewater Treatment Plant is currently discharged into the Little River downstream of the campground, with the plant operating seasonally March through November based on the campground schedule. Effluent has consistently complied with all permit limitations.

The park is currently evaluating alternative approaches for treating wastewater, planning

$250,000 to Friends of the Smokies on the park’s behalf. A collaboration of American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Partners in Preservation gave grants to the top nine parks in an online voting contest for the funds.

Straddling the North CarolinaTennessee line at 6,643 feet, the tower is a prominent landmark and the park’s highest point. Since its construction in 1959, millions of visitors have climbed the tower, which offers views stretching as far as 100 miles over the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Though Clingmans Dome Road is closed to motorized traffic during the winter, hikers can use the road, tower and entire Clingmans Dome area year-round. the upgrade as a way to provide a modern, efficient and sustainable treatment system into the future. The existing treatment plant was built in 1959 with modifications in 1969 and 2008, and at this point it has exceeded its expected service life.

Input from the public is welcome in this process to alert the park to issues that should be considered and alternative ways to achieve project objectives. Comment online by following the link titled “Elkmont Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade” at parkplanning.nps.gov/grsm or mail comments to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ATTN: Environmental Planning and Compliance, 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • A job fair is scheduled for 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 30, in the lobby of the Harris Regional Hospital Emergency Department in Sylva. Presented by Harris and Swain Community Hospital. Clinical and non-clinical positions available. Complete job listing: www.myharrisregional.com, www.myswaincommunity.com or 586.7408.

• The Town of Sylva and the Sylva Public Art Committee invite artists or artist teams to submit qualifications for an artist to develop a mural concept and for installation of mural by artist(s) on the wall of Ward Plumbing & Heating on Mill Street in downtown Sylva.

Deadline for submission is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15.

Applications and materials must be received by this date and time to be considered. 586.2719 or townmanager@townofsylva.org.

• Folkmoot is organizing a trip to Greece that will depart Dec. 26 and return on Jan. 3. To register or get more info: http://folkmoot.org/Greece or 452.2997.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • Registration is underway for the spring semester at Haywood Community College. Classes start Monday, Jan. 8. 627.4500 or haywood.edu.

• A Hunter Safety Course will be offered from 6-9:30 p.m. on Dec. 18-19 on the Haywood Community College Campus, Building 3300, Room 3322, in Clyde.

Participants must attend both nights to receive certification from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.

Preregistration required: www.ncwildlife.org.

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. nesses including farmers, value-added processors, beverage manufacturers, food service businesses and more. For info or to register: SBC.Haywood.edu or 627.4512.

• A TED talk discussion on “How to Spot a Liar” will be offered on Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 1 p.m., at the Waynesville Library. 15-20 minute talk followed by discussion. Registration required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

• Small business owners can find materials and services to support business growth at Fontana Regional Library’s locations in Macon, Jackson and Swain Counties. Computer classes and one-on-one assistance also available. 586.2016 or www.fontanalib.org.

• A meeting of current and former employees of the Waynesville plant of Champion/Blue Ridge/Evergreen is held at 8 a.m. on the first Monday of each month at BoJangles near Lake Junaluska’s entrance.

• One-on-one computer lessons are offered weekly at the Waynesville and Canton branches of the Haywood County Public Library. Lesson slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Canton and from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Waynesville Library. Sign up at the front desk of either library or call 356.2507 for the Waynesville Library or 648.2924 for the Canton Library.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS

• Jay Watson, the Howry Professor of Faulkner Studies at the University of Mississippi, will give a talk on “William Faulkner’s Great War Modernism: ‘New Death’ in Soldiers’ Pay” at 4 p.m. on Nov. 30 in Coulter Building, Room 304, at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. atmclaxton@email.wcu.edu.

• City Lights Bookstore (Sylva) 19th annual “Giving Tree” program is now underway. The program collects books and gives them to the agencies in time for the children to receive books for Christmas. All “Giving Tree” purchases will receive a 20 percent discount.

586.9499.

• Blue Ridge Books will hold a grand opening of its new location from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, at 428 Hazelwood Avenue in Waynesville. 456.6000 or www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

• Smoky Mountain Rollergirls and Lil’ Nemesisters will skate and collect nonperishable food at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, during the annual Bryson City Christmas Parade. Search Smoky Mountain Roller Girls on Facebook.

• Concealed Carry Handgun Classes will be offered from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. on Dec. 2, Jan. 20 and Feb. 17 at Bethel Grocery Hunting & Fishing at 5692 Pigeon Road in Waynesville. 648.5797 or bethelgrocery@gmail.com.

• A social media marketing summit for small business owners will be offered from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Haywood Community College campus in Clyde. Seminars include “Instagram Made Easy,” “Facebook Made Easy” and “Tools for Social Media.” For info or to register: SBC.Haywood.edu or 627.4512.

• Registration is underway for an Agribusiness Summit that will be held from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, at Haywood Community College. Presented by HCC’s Small Business Center and regional agribusiness partners. Two tracks will be offered: “How to Start a Food-Based Business” and “How to Grow a Food-Based Business.” Register or get more info: http://SBC.Haywood.edu or 627.4512.

• Southwestern Community College will host a Small Business Summit from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Dec. 4 in the Burrell Building of the Jackson Campus in Sylva.

Sessions include time, money, marketing, image, vision, social media and more. Register: http://bit.ly/sccsmallbiz. Info: 339.4426.

• Haywood Community College’s Small Business Center and its regional agribusiness partners will hold a Regional Agribusiness Summit from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the HCC Auditorium in Clyde. Designed for current and prospective agribusi-

• The Canton Senior Center Fundraiser is scheduled for 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Dec. 2 at 1 Pigeon Street in Canton.

Coffee and donuts from 8-11 a.m.; hot dogs, chips and drinks from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

• The First Presbyterian Church (Franklin) will hold a Carenet Benefit Concert at 3 p.m. Dec. 3. The first $1,000 of donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

Cookie reception to follow at Tartan Hall.

HEALTH MATTERS • HIV and syphilis testing will is offered during normal business hours at Jackson County Department of Public Health in Sylva. 586.8994.

• The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Nov. 29 at the Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. Redcrossblood.org or 800.733.2767.

• Mantra, Music & Mindfulness, a workshop on mantra practice and kirtan, is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Waynesville Yoga Center, 274 S. Main Street. With Amah Devi and Jeremy Staum. $25. www.amahdevi.com.

• The Autism Society of North Carolina will hold an Autism 101 Workshop & Chapter Meeting from 5-7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3, at Bethel Church in Franklin. Potluck dinner and workshop. maconchapter@autismsocietync.org or 419.392.7370.

Smoky Mountain News

• “High-profile allegations of sexual predation: witch hunt or a moral awakening?” will be the topic of the Franklin Open Forum at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 4, at Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub in Franklin. Dialog, not debate. 371.1020.

• An opportunity to learn about your Affordable Care Health Insurance options will be offered from 1-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Waynesville Library.

Appointments: 452.1447. Walk-ins welcome.

• The December Ladies Night Out Program is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 12 in the cafeteria of Angel Medical Center in Franklin. Topic is “Food Safety,” presented by Lisa Browning of Macon County Public Health’s Environmental Health Section. For ages 13-up.

Proceeds go to Toys for Tots.

• “Laughing Balsam Sangha,” a meeting for Mindfullness in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, meets will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Mondays at 318 Skyland Drive in Sylva. Included are sitting and walking meditation, and Dharma discussion. Free admission.

335.8210, and “Like” them on Facebook.

• A “Walk With A Doc” program is scheduled for 10 a.m. each Saturday at the Lake Junaluska Kern Center or Canton Rec Park.

MyHaywoodRegional.com/WalkwithaDoc. • Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families (ACA) meets at noon on Saturdays at the First United Methodist Church Outreach Center at 171 Main St. in Franklin. 407.758.6433 or adultchildren.org.

• The Jackson County Department of Public Health will offer a general clinic from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 587.8225.

• A Food Addicts Anonymous Twelve-Step fellowship group meets at 5:30 p.m. on Mondays at Grace Church in the Mountains in Waynesville. www.foodaddictsanonymous.org.

• Big Brother/Big Sister, a one-evening preparation class for children who are about to greet a new baby into their family, is offered for children ages 3-10 at Haywood Regional Medical Center. 452.8440 or MyHaywoodRegional.com/ParentClasses.

• Mothers Connection, an ongoing social gathering for mothers and their babies, meets from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Thursdays excluding holidays at Haywood Regional Medical Center. 452.8440 or MyHaywoodRegional.com/ParentClasses.

• A support group for anyone with Multiple Sclerosis, family and friends meets twice each month: at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in the Heritage Room at the Jackson County Senior Center in Sylva and at 5:30 p.m. on the second Thursday at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. Info: 293.2503.

• Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes are available at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. Classes are offered bimonthly on an ongoing basis. Register or get more info: 586.7907.

• A free weekly grief support group is open to the public from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at SECU Hospice House in Franklin. Hosted by Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

• A monthly grief processing support group will meet from 4-5:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at the Homestead Hospice and Palliative Care in Clyde.

452.5039.

• A free, weekly grief support group will meet from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at the SECU Hospice House in Franklin. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

• “ECA on the Move!” – a walking program organized

by Jackson County Extension and Community Association – meets from 9-10 a.m. on Mondays

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Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings through Thursdays. It’s an effort to meet the American Heart Association’s recommendation of 10,000 steps per day. 586.4009.

• A Tuesday Meditation Group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Franklin.

RECREATION AND FITNESS • The High Mountain Squares will host their annual “Toys for Tots Dance” from 2:30-4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Macon County Community Building in Franklin. Admission is a new unwrapped toy. Westernstyle square dancing, mainstream and levels.

371.4946, 342.1560, 332.0001 or www.highmountainsquares.com.

• Pickleball, a cross between tennis, badminton and ping-pong, will be offered from 9 a.m.-noon on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Old Hazelwood Gym in Waynesville. $3 per visit, or $20 for a 10-visit card.

452.6789 or drtaylor@haywoodnc.net.

• ZUMBA! Classes, are offered from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesdays, at the Canton Armory. $5 per class. 648.2363 or parks@cantonnc.com.

• Tai chi is offered from 10:45-11:45 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center. It’s also offered from 1-2 p.m. on Thursdays. Taught by Bill Muerdter. For info about the classes or HRHFC memberships and offerings, call 452.8080 or visit MyHaywoodRegional.com/Fitness.

• Ultimate Frisbee games are held from 5:30-8 p.m. on Mondays at the Cullowhee Recreation Park. Organized

by Jackson County Parks & Recreation. Pick-up style.

293.2053 or www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• The Wednesday Croquet Group meets from 10 a.m.noon at the Vance Street Park across from the shelter.

For senior players ages 55 or older. 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Pickleball is from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday nights at First Methodist Church in Sylva. $1 each time you play; equipment provided. 293.3053.

• Cardio Lunch class will meet from noon-1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 16 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members. 456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Flexible Fitness class will meet from 4:30-5:15 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 16 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members.

456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Pump It Up class will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 16 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members. 456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• The Canton Armory is open to the public for walking from 7:45-9 a.m. on Monday through Friday unless the

wnc calendar

facility is booked till spring. 648.2363. parks@cantonnc.com.

• Pickle ball is offered from 8 a.m.-noon on Mondays through Fridays at the Waynesville Recreation Center.

456.2030 or www.waynesvillnc.gov.

SPIRITUAL • Toy Jam Seven featuring Tribe Called Praise and special guest Emily Franklin is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9, at Webster Baptist Church. Message, music, refreshments and fellowship. Admission: new, unopened and unwrapped toy.

• The Haywood Ramblers will perform a mix of Baptist spirituals, traditional balids, Carter family songs and regional compositions in a concert at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17, at Western Carolina University’s H.F. Robinson Administration Building in Cullowhee. Jam session will follow. 227.7129.

POLITICAL • The Jackson County Republican Party will have a Prayer Breakfast at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, at Comfort Inn in Sylva. 743.6491.

• An info session with Phillip Price, who’s running for Congress, is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 7 at Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub in Franklin. 659.7000 or www.price4wnc.com.

• “Price 4 WNC” is hosting a rally in support of net neutrality rules at 12:30 p.m. on Dec. 7 at Vance Monument in Asheville. 659.7000 or phillip@price4wnc.com.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

• Tickets are on sale for the 25th annual Charles Taylor Holiday Dinner, which is Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Crown Plaza Resort in Asheville. Taylor is the longestserving Republican U.S. Representative in WNC history (1991-2007). Tickets: $60. Checks can be mailed to Charles Taylor, P.O. Box 7587, Asheville, NC 28802.

Info: 243.2187 or tasmothers@yahoo.com.

• The Haywood County Libertarian Party is now meeting at Blue Ridge Books on Main Street from 4:30-6 p.m. every second Monday of the month. These meetings will be for discussion on current events, and are open to the public.

• A lunch-and-discussion group will be held by the League of Women Voters at noon on the second Thursday of each month at Tartan Hall of the First Presbyterian Church in Franklin. RSVP for lunch: lwvmacon@wild-dog-mountain.info or 524.8369.

AUTHORS AND BOOKS • Jay Watson, the Howry Professor of Faulkner Studies at the University of Mississippi, will be giving a talk at 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, in Coulter 304 on the Western Carolina University campus. His title is “William Faulkner’s Great War Modernism: ‘New Death’ in Soldiers’ Pay.” The talk is open to the public.

Smoky Mountain News

• The book launch of Kim Michele Richardson’s new

48

novel The Sisters of Glass Ferry will be held at 2 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. To reserve copies of the books, call 586.9499.

•The “Coffee with the Poet” series gathers at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva the third Thursday of each month and is co-sponsored by the North Carolina Writers Network. 586.9499.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES • The Mexican Train Dominoes Group seeks new players to join games at 1:30 p.m. each Tuesday at the Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 926.6567.

in Brasstown. http://folkschool.org or 837.2775.

• A kids’ nature discovery program will be offered to ages 3-5 and kindergarten through third grade through the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department.

Younger ages will meet at 4 p.m. on Wednesday (Dec. 20) at Cullowhee Recreation Center. The older ages meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday (Dec. 20). $10 per child.

Pre-register: www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

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

• Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina – an effort to help area residents commit to a healthier lifestyle, will meet from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

• Registration is underway for Lake Junaluska’s winter youth retreats, which start Dec. 29. Register or get more info: 800.222.4930 or www.lakejunaluska.com/winteryouth.

• A Silver Sneakers Cardio Fit class will meet from 1011 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 60 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members. 456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Book Club is held at 2 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800

• “Coco” is playing Nov. 29-Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., Dec. 2-3 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m., Dec. 4-7 at 7 p.m. in Waynesville at the Strand on Main. See website, 38main.cc for prices.

• Senior croquet for ages 55 and older is offered from 9-11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Vance Street Park in front of Waynesville Recreation Center.

Free. For info, contact Donald Hummel at 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• A Hand & Foot card game is held at 1 p.m. on Mondays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

KIDS FILMS

• “Leap” is playing at Mad Batter Food & Film Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m. in Sylva. Free. 586.3555.

• “Despicable Me 3” will be playing at the Mad Batter Food & Film on Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. in Sylva. Free. 586.3555.

• A family movie will be shown at 10:30 a.m. every Friday at Hudson Library in Highlands.

• Pinochle game is played at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2813.

• Hearts is played at 12 p.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2813.

• Mah Jongg is played at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2813.

KIDS & FAMILIES • A Christmas-themed storytime and Carolina event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Photo opp with Santa. 524.3600.

• Holiday gift-making time for kids is scheduled for 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Dec. 16 and Dec. 22-23 at Art Room Main Street in Franklin. $15 per child. Make a hairclip, polymer clay pen and cards and ribbon pins.

For ages 8-up. Register: 349.3777 or www.artroomsupplies.com.

• A Holiday Kids Party is scheduled for 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, at the John C. Campbell Folk School

Puzzles can be found on page 55.

These are only the answers.

A&E FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS • The last “Art After Dark” will be from 6 to 9 p.m. this Friday, Dec. 1, in downtown Waynesville. Each Main Street transforms into an evening of art, music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors. www.waynesvillegalleryassociation.com.

• Registration is underway for the Balsam Range Art of Music Fetival, which is Dec. 1-2 at Lake Junaluska.

Featuring some of the top bluegrass and acoustic musicians in the nation. www.lakejunaluska.com.

HOLIDAY • Waynesville Christmas Parade is at 6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 4, on Main Street. info@downtownwaynesville.com or 456.3517.

• 43rd annual Cashiers Christmas Parade is at noon on Saturday, Dec. 9. http://tinyurl.com/y94jp8yd.

• With the theme “Winter Wonderland Nights,” there will be a special holiday celebration at 5 p.m. Dec 2 in downtown Franklin. 524.3161 or www.franklin-chamber.com • “Letters to Santa” will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Dec. 23 at the Swain County Heritage Museum in Bryson City. Drop a line for Santa. Materials provided. Call the museum for Santa appearances: 800.867.9246.

• Tickets are on sale for the N.C. Arboretum’s Winter Lights event, which runs through Dec. 31. Tickets: $18 for adults; $12 for children and $15 per person in groups of 20 or more. Members get a $2 discount per ticket. www.ncwinterlights.com.

• An Open Door Meal & Sing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29, at First United Methodist Church of Sylva. Gospel Christian music provided by Turning Home. 586.2358.

• Margaret Roberts and friends will help you make holiday cards during Art After Dark from 6-9 p.m. on Dec. 1 at Twigs and Leaves Gallery in Waynesville. http://twigsandleaves.com or 456.1940.

• Luminaries will be placed on the old Jackson County Courthouse steps and down historic Main Street Sylva on the evenings of Dec. 1-2 and Dec. 8-9. Luminaries will be placed by the First Presbyterian Church of Sylva.

• The annual “Lights & Luminaries” will return to the streets of downtown Dillsboro Dec. 1-2 and 8-9. www.visitdillsboro.org.

• Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation will have its annual gift-wrapping project for shoppers during regular stores from Dec. 2-24 at Mast General Store on Main Street in Waynesville. Organizers need wrapping materials and volunteers to work three-hour shifts.

Sign up: http://tinyurl.com/yco6ssdo. www.sargeanimals.org.

• The Brasstown Ringers will present their “Bells of Christmas Past” Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Dec. 1 in the First United Methodist Church in Franklin.

• The First Presbyterian Church of Waynesville will hold its fifth annual Christmas Cheer Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2. Donations accepted.

• The 13th annual “Christmas Worship in a Stable” is scheduled for 5:30-6:10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the 3rd Generation Barn Loft Farm outside of Canton.

Donations accepted of canned food items for the Community Kitchen in Canton. Christmas carols, story, live animals and special music and lighting.

• The Sylva Christmas Parade will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in downtown. For more information, call 828.586.2719 or click on www.mainstreetsylva.org.

• The Haywood County “Master Gardener WreathMaking Event” will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the

• “Breakfast with Santa” will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Rescue Squad Building in Bryson City. Pancake breakfast ($5). Bring your own camera. 828.488.3681.

• The old-fashioned “Christmas at Cowee School” will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the school in Franklin. For more information, please contact Claire Suminksi at 828.369.5417, email claire@dometrics.com or visit the Cowee School website at www.coweeschool.org.

• The “Christmas in the Mountains” indoor arts and crafts show will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Stecoah Valley Center. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

• The “Fireside Sale” will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Joh C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown. Holiday gifts made by local and regional artisans. Free admission. 800.FOLK.SCH. • Haywood Community Chorus will have its annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Waynesville First United Methodist Church. Featuring John Rutter’s “Magnificat.”

• The Macon County Public Library and Friends of the Macon County Public Library will co-sponsor a Christmas-themed story time with Christmas caroling at 10 a.m. on Dec. 5 in the library’s living room. Visit from Santa Claus.

FOOD & DRINK • Tickets are on sale for the Downtown Sylva Wine Walk, which is at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7. Sample food and wines at eight venues. Tickets: $45 or $40 and a donation of a nonperishable food item for the Community Table.

ON STAGE & IN CONCERT • Western Carolina University Dance Program will feature the Fall Dance Showcase at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, in Hoey Auditorium in Cullowhee. Nine dance works, three choreographed by students. Admission: $1 at the door. Donations accepted. 227.3672 or amwasmund@wcu.edu.

• Cowee Christmas with Seeds of Faith (gospel) and Curtis Blackwell (bluegrass) is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Rickman Store, 259 Cowee Creek Road, seven miles north of Franklin. 369.5595 or search for “Friends of the Rickman Store” on Facebook.

• The 22nd annual Voices in the Laurel Winter Concert entitled “A Holiday Concert” featuring traditional and contemporary favorites is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3, at First Baptist Church in Waynesville.

Tickets: $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets available by calling 564.3310 or at www.voicesinthelaurel.org.

• Western Carolina University’s School of Music presents is annual “Sounds of the Season” concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3, in the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center on WCU’s campus in Cullowhee. Advance tickets (before Nov. 27): $15 for adults; $10 for WCU, faculty, staff and anyone 60 or older. At the door: $20 for adults; $15 for WCU faculty and staff and anyone over 60; $5 for students and children. Proceeds benefit the School of Music Scholarship Fund. Bardoartscenter.wcu.edu or 227.2479.

• The John C. Campbell Folk School will have Christmas Songs and Celtic Tunes at 7 p.m. on Dec. 4 in Brasstown. http://folkschool.org or 837.2775.

• The Brasstown Ringers will present their “Bells of Christmas Past” Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Dec. 8 at the John C. Campbell Folk School’s Keith House Community Room in Brasstown.

• The rapid-fire tap dancing squad Rhythmic Circus will perform a special holiday show “Red and Green” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Bardo Arts Center in Cullowhee.

• Appalachian Christmas at Lake Junaluska is Dec. 710. Live music, meals and artistry. Includes performance of Handel’s “Messiah,” Lake Junaluska Singers Christmas Concert, Cockman Family performs and Appalachian Christmas Craft Show. www.lakejunaluska.com.

• A dramatic reading of “A Christmas Carol” will be presented by Bob Grove at 7 p.m. on Dec. 6, followed by a performance by the Brasstown Morris Dancers at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown. Info: http://folkschool.org or 837.2775.

• A performance of Handel’s Messiah is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 8 at Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com.

• Margaret Roberts and friends will help you make holiday cards during Night Before Christmas from 6-9 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Twigs and Leaves Gallery in Waynesville. http://twigsandleaves.com or 456.1940.

• Cherokee’s Christmas parade is at 2 p.m. on Dec. 9 in Cherokee. 359.6491.

• Cherokee Lights & Legends is Dec. 9-17 at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. 359.6492.

• A Night Before Christmas is happening Dec. 9 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in downtown Waynesville. Lights, luminaries, wagon rides, music, Santa, shopping and so much more. www.visitncsmokies.com.

• The Brasstown Ringers will present their “Bells of Christmas Past” Christmas Concert at 5 p.m. on Dec. 17 at the First Baptist Church in Robbinsville.

• “The Santaland Diaries” will be presented at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 7-9 by David Sedaris at the Western Carolina University Bardo Arts Center in Cullowhee.

Tickets: $30. Tickets and info: arts.wcu.edu/santaland.

• Local country singer Ryan Perry will host the “Under The Moonshine” single release party from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at Elevated Mountain Distilling in Maggie Valley. Fatbellys Food Truck will be onsite at 6:30 p.m. Waynesville Soda Jerks will also be serving artisan beverages. Donations accepted for the Haywood County Animal Shelter. www.elevatedmountain.com.

• The Cockman Family will perform a concert at 2 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com.

• The Lake Junaluska Singers will perform a concert at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Lake Junaluska. www.lakejunaluska.com.

Smoky Mountain News

• The Appalachian Christmas Craft Show is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Dec. 8 at Lake Junaluska. Live music, meals and artistry. www.lakejunaluska.com.

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

• Very Merry Market, a healthy, handmade holiday pop-up is scheduled for 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7, at Room 190s, South Main Street in Waynesville.

Featuring doTerra Essential Oils, Stonehouse Pottery, drinking glasses by Jennifer Mathis, watercolor prints

by Ami Pruett Art, handcrafted jewelry by Vella Creative, felted wool creations by Erin Boyd and artisan tea gift baskets. Register: http://tinyurl.com/y7zb5jdu.

• New Year’s Eve Fireworks will be launched on Dec. 31 at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. 359.6492.

wnc calendar

Cooperative Extension Office in Waynesville. Sessions are from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. at the Cooperative Extension Office at 589 Raccoon Road.

Cost is $20 for one wreath, including all materials.

Limited to 40 people per session. If you have any questions, contact Andre’ Haas at ajhaas1958@gmail.com or 593.0862. Proceeds from this Wreath-Making Event fund horticultural projects and grants in Haywood County.

• “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” will be on stage at 2 p.m. on Dec. 9-10 and Dec. 16-17 at HART Theater in Waynesville. Tickets: $10 for adults; $5 for students. www.harttheatre.org or 456.6322.

• The Highlands Cashiers Players will present their

49

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annual Holiday Program at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Highlands Performing Arts Center in Highlands. Theme is “Have A vae aHHolly, Jolly Christmas” with a holiday quiz and stories ready by HCP actors.

• Auditions for “Sense and Sensibility: will be held from noon-3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, and from 5-7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 17, in Fangmeyer Theater at HART in Waynesville. Production will run April 27-May 13.

Five roles each for men and women.

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • Wire art artist Lawrie Williams will hold a Holiday Ornament Wire Art class from 1-4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office in Sylva. Colored wire Christmas ornaments, including a wire angel. $10. Register or get info: 586.4009.

• Cowee Christmas, a “Show and Sell Fine Art and Craft Show” will be presented by Doug and Patti Hubbs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, at Cowee School, Arts & Heritage Center in Franklin. Live music and a “Holiday ArtSaturday Free Arts and Craft for kids” from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 369.5417, Claire@dometrics.com or www.coweeschool.org.

• The Jackson County Senior Center will host its annual craft show from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Heritage Room at the Department on Aging Building in Sylva. 586.5494.

• Glass Ornament classes will be offered on Saturday, Dec. 2 at Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. $30 per time slot. Each time slot is 30 minutes; slots available from 10 a.m.-4 p.mk. Pre-register: 631.0271. Ages 13-18 may participate with parent present. www.jcgep.org.

Smoky Mountain News

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

• Glass Ornament classes will be offered on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. $30 per time slot. Each time slot is 30 minutes; slots available from noon-2 p.m. Pre-register: 631.0271. Ages 13-18 may participate with parent present. www.jcgep.org.

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• The Jackson County Genealogical Society will host its annual meeting and Christmas potluck supper at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the Community Room at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. A Christmas story by John Parris will be told by Howard Allman.

631.2646 or jacksoncountygenealogy@gmail.com.

and third Thursdays of each month at the Iron Skillet in Bryson City.

• “Paint Nite Waynesville” will be held at 7 p.m. every other Thursday at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville.

There will also be “Painting at the Porch” at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Southern Porch in Canton. Sign up for either event on the Paint Night Waynesville Facebook page (www.facebook.com/paintwaynesville) or call Robin Arramae at 828.400.9560. paintnitewaynesville@gmail.com.

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

• Coloring Club will be hosted on the second Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m. at Canton Library.

Color pencils and color pages supplied. For ages 8 to 108. 648.2924.

• Beginners Chess Club is held on Fridays at 4 p.m. at the Canton Public Library. Ages 8-108 invited to participate. 648.2924.

• Gallery 1 in Sylva is featuring small works of art for sale by its artist members. The exhibit will run through Nov. 30. Opening hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. www.gallery1sylva.com, www.facebook.com/artinthemountains and www.instagram.com/gallery1_sylva.

• In the WCU Fine Art Museum main gallery through Dec. 8 is the nationally traveling exhibition “Return from Exile: Contemporary Southeastern Indian Art,” curated by Tony A. Tiger, Bobby C. Martin, and Jace Weaver. This exhibition showcases a selection of artworks recently given to the museum and includes a number of artists not previously represented in the collection. www.wcu.edu.

• Cribbage is at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Maggie Valley Inn. 410.440.7652 or 926.3978.

• An Antique, Vintage & Handcrafted Flea Market starts at 8 a.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 3029 Soco Road in Maggie Valley. Bring your own table/tent. Spaces rent for $10 a day or $25 for all three days.

• The Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at the Bardo Arts Center is pleased to present the exhibition “WCU Collects: Recent Acquisitions” through Jan. 26 in Cullowhee. go.wcu.edu/wcucollects or call 828.227.3591.

• The Adult Coloring Group will meet at 2 p.m. on Fridays in the Living Room of the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. An afternoon of creativity and camaraderie. Supplies are provided, or bring your own.

Beginners are welcome as well as those who already enjoy this new trend. kmoe@fontanalib.org or 524.3600.

• “Atomic Blonde” is playing at Mad Batter Food & Film on Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. in Sylva. Free. 586.3555.

• Haywood County Arts Council is inviting artist members to participate in its annual Artist Member Show.

Download a show contract/inventory sheet from www.haywoodarts.org. Send completed forms to gallery@haywoodarts.org or P.O. Box 306; Waynesville, N.C. 28786.

• The Swain County Genealogical & Historical Society will have a holiday party and silent auction at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Swain County Business Education Center, which is at 45 East Ridge Drive in Bryson City.

• Glass Ornament classes will be offered on Thursday, Dec. 7 at Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. $30 per time slot. Each time slot is 30 minutes; slots available from noon-2 p.m. Pre-register: 631.0271. Ages 13-18 may participate with parent present. www.jcgep.org.

• “Stitch,” the community gathering of those interested in crochet, knit and needlepoint, meet at 2:30 p.m. every first Sunday of the month at the Canton Public Library. All ages and skill levels welcome. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• Learn how to make your own glass paperweight in a 30-minute class on Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Time slots are available between 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Reservations: 631.0271. Walk-ins welcome. Info: www.jcgep.org.

• The Sew Easy Girls meet from noon-3 p.m. on the first Monday of every month at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office’s conference room. Learn how to sew. 586.4009.

• Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild will host a “former First Lady” during its Christmas Luncheon at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 11, at Tartan Hall in Franklin. Muriel Pfaff will represent Frances Cleveland, wife of President Grover Cleveland. www.smokymtnquilters.org.

• The Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at Bardo Arts Center will host the exhibit “WCU Collects: Recent Acquisitions” through Jan. 26. 227.3591.

• The Haywood County Arts Council annual show, “It’s a Small, Small Work,” will be held through Dec. 23 in HCAC Gallery & Gifts in Waynesville.www.haywoodarts.org or 452.0593.

• The Jackson Rangers Camp 1917 will hold monthly meetings at 6 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Barkers Creek Community Center. Members are being sought to participate in honor guard graveside events and honor Confederate soldiers. The Confederate Rose, a ladies auxiliary group that supports active members, meets at the same time and location. 736.6222 or jrcamp1917@hotmail.com.

• A class on making kombucha at home is scheduled for 3-4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8, at the Waynesville Library. Kombucha is a fermented beverage made of tea and sugar. Functional, probiotic. Registration required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

display through the month of November at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. artbyjustinmoe.weebly.com or www.facebook.com/artbyjustinmoe.

• A community art group meets at 10 a.m. every Wednesday at the Hudson Library in Highlands.

828.526.3031.

• A writer’s group meets at 1 p.m. every Thursday at Hudson Library in Highlands. 526.3031.

• Free one-on-one technology help is offered every Tuesday and Thursday morning at Hudson Library in Highlands. Call 526.3031 to make an appointment.

ART SHOWINGS AND GALLERIES

FILM & SCREEN • “The Hitman’s Bodyguard” will be playing at the Mad Batter Food & Film on Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in Sylva.

Free. 586.3555.

• “Logan Lucky” will be playing at the Mad Batter Food & Film on Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in Sylva. Free. 586.3555.

• “Farmers for America: A Documentary to Celebrate, Inspire and Support Young Farmers” will be presented at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Waynesville Library. Film is 75 minutes.

• “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” will be playing at 7 p.m. on Dec. 14, 7 p.m. and 9:55 p.m. on Dec. 15, 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 9:55 p.m., on Dec. 16, 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m., on Dec. 17, and at 7 p.m. on Dec. 18-21 at the Strand on Main in Waynesville. See website for tickets and pricing. www.38main.com.

• Free movies are shown every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva.

Madbatterfoodfilm.com.

Outdoors

• The Cataloochee Ski and Snowboard Swap Shop is Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 2-3, at Cataloochee Ski Area. New and slightly used clothing and gear for adults and kids will be offered from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday. www.cataloochee.com.

• Forest ecology experts will lead a hike displaying the after-effects of a sale during an all-day outing on Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Pisgah National Forest in Transylvania County. Moderately difficult. $10 for MountainTrue members; $30 for nonmembers. Sign up: http://tinyurl.com/ycgbjbv3.

• Waynesville Fiber Friends welcomes fiber artists of every kind: crochet, knitting, cross-stitching and more, from 10 a.m.-noon on the second Saturday of each month at Panacea Coffee House in Waynesville.

276.6226.

• Linda Dickinson’s display of black-and-white photography is being displayed at the Canton Public Library Meeting Room in Canton. Show is entitled “Waynesville and Environs, a Black & White Perspective.” 648.2924.

• A Smokies Service Day is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Dec. 2 at Deep Creek. Picnic area and campground clean-up. Volunteer: 865.436.1278 or logan_boldon@partner.nps.gov.

• The Bryson City Lion meet at 6:30 p.m. on the first

• A showcase of artwork from Justin Moe will be on

• The Tuckaseigee River Chapter No. 373 of Trout

Unlimited meets at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, at United Community Bank in Sylva. Dinner is $5. Speaker is Matt Kulp, supervisory fishery biologist for Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Section hiking of the Appalachian Trail will be discussed from 6:30-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 6 at REI in Asheville. Led by instructor Patrick Wright. Register: www.rei.com/learn.html.

• The last Haywood Spay/Neuter transport is Dec. 13.

Pets must be registered by the day before the event, paperwork must be completed and ID and proof of income must be provided to determine the fee.

452.1329 or www.haywoodspayneuter.org.

• Highlands Biological Station will hold the closing ceremony of its 2017 Institute for the Environment program where students will present their research from 25 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at the Nature Center in Highlands. www.highlandsbiological.org or 526.2221.

• Highlands Plateau Audubon Society will have its annual Christmas Bird Count at 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 15 at Founders Park in Highlands. www.highlandsaudubonsociety.org or 526.1939.

• A Spay/Neuter Clinic is offered from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays at 182 Richland Street in Waynesville. As low as $10. 452.1329.

• A weekly nighttime mountain bike ride is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Mondays from the Ledford Branch Trailhead at Bent Creek in Asheville. Organized by Motion Makers Bicycles. 633.2227.

FARM AND GARDEN • The Sylva Garden Club will hold its December meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, in the Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church of Sylva. Guest speaker is Rob Hawk, county extension director for Jackson and Swain Counties. He’ll present Aldo Leopold’s essay “December: Pines Above Snow.”

HIKING CLUBS • The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate 6mile hike with an elevation change of 1,000 feet on Saturday, Dec. 2, on Long Branch Trail. Reservations and info: 369.1983.

• The Great Smoky Mountains Association will offer a seven-mile hike on Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Fontana Dam area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Led by Chris Hoge of Wildland Trekking. $10 for GSMA members; $35 for new members. Signup: http://conta.cc/2BcMAZh. • The Nantahala Hiking Club will take an easy 3.5-mile hike with an elevation change of 500 feet on Dec. 3 on the Wayah Bald Loop. Reservations and info: 524.5298.

• The Carolina Mountain Club will hold its annual cookie hike on Wednesday, Dec. 6, at Bent Creek. Two routes available: seven-mile hike starts at 8:30 a.m.; four-mile hike starts at 10 a.m. RSVP required: 274.7070 or cnkdeal@charter.net (for seven-mile hike); 254.9054 or magenta97@charter.net (for four-mile hike).

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take an easy-to-moderate hike with an elevation change of 680 feet on Saturday, Dec. 9, to Chinquapin Mountain near Highlands. Reservations and info: 524.5298.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate sixmile hike with an elevation change of 300 feet on Saturday, Dec. 16, to Bee Cove Falls in South Carolina.

Reservations and info: 743.1079.

OUTDOOR CLUBS • The Jackson County Poultry Club will hold its regular meeting on the third Thursday of each month at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office. The club is for adults and children and includes a monthly meeting with a program and a support network for those raising birds. For info, call 586.4009 or write heather_gordon@ncsu.edu.

PRIME REAL ESTATE Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MarketPlace information: The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 every week to over 500 locations across in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties along with the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. For a link to our MarketPlace Web site, which also contains a link to all of our MarketPlace display advertisers’ Web sites, visit www.smokymountainnews.com.

Rates:

■ Free — Lost or found pet ads.

■ $5 — Residential yard sale ads, ■ $5 — Non-business items that sell for less than $150.

■ $15 — Classified ads that are 50 words or less; each additional line is $2.

If your ad is 10 words or less, it will be displayed with a larger type.

■ $3 — Border around ad and $5 — Picture with ad or colored background.

■ $50 — Non-business items, 25 words or less. 3 month or till sold.

■ $300 — Statewide classifieds run in 117 participating newspapers with 1.6 million circulation. Up to 25 words.

■ All classified ads must be pre-paid.

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The public hearing will be held in Haywood County at 11:00a.m. on December 21, 2017 at the Mountain Projects office on 2251 Old Balsam Road, Waynesville, NC 28786 and Jackson County 1:30p.m. on December 21, 2017 at the Mountain Projects office on 25 Schulman Street, Sylva, NC 28779.

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FRONT DESK/OFFICE MANAGER Full Time or Part Time: Maggie Valley Cabin Resort Seeks a Versatile, Energetic & Experienced Front Desk Employee. Customer Service & Computer Exp. Req. Weekends, Nights & Holidays a Must! Call 828.926.1388 BROWN TRUCKING Is looking for COMPANY DRIVERS and OWNER OPERATORS. Brown requires: CDL-A, 2 years of tractor trailer experience OTR or Regional (Multiple states) in the last 3 years, good MVR and PSP. Apply: www.driveforbrown.com. Contact Brandon Collins. 919.291.7416.

HOME CARE PARTNERS Is now accepting applications for CNA’s and In-Home Aides in Macon, Jackson and Swain areas. We have competitive wages, paid time off, Holiday Pay, dental, vision and life insurance. For more information call 828.586.1570 or apply in person at 525 Mineral Springs Drive, Sylva, NC 28779.

MOON PIE - A GORGEOUS BLUETICK COONHOUND FEMALE. SHE HAS A LOVELY "VOICE" TYPICAL OF HER BREED, BUT SHE USES IT ONLY WHEN NECESSARY TO GET YOUR ATTENTION. SHE IS A LOVING, AFFECTIONATE GOOFBALL AND SHE'LL BE A TON OF FUN FOR HER NEW FAMILY.

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BLAZE - A YOUNG ORANGE TABBY MALE. HE IS A SWEET, CONFIDENT LITTLE GUY WHO ADORES RECEIVING HUMAN ATTENTION, ESPECIALLY NECK SCRATCHES. HE'LL BE A TERRIFIC FELINE BUDDY TO HIS LUCKY ADOPTER.

52

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

FTCC Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Respiratory Therapy Clinical Instructor (Part-time Raleigh Area).

For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.comHuman Resources Office Phone: 910.678.7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu An Equal Opportunity Employer FTCC Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Security Officer. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.com Human Resources Office Phone: 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: Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology Instructor & Mathematics Instructor. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.com Human Resources Office Phone: 910.678.7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu An Equal Opportunity Employer

NCCAT AY CULLOWHEE Seeks Permanent Part-time DISHWASHER Salary Range: $17,499 - $17,762 This position will be responsible for washing dishes, day-to-day sanitation, and other general cleaning duties of the kitchen.

This position is 30 hours per week with benefits.

Applications will be accepted online until November 28, 2017, at 5:00 P.M. EST at: https://www.governmentjobs.co m/careers/northcarolina/jobs/1 780729/dishwasher Please call Ian Talarico at 828.293.5202 if you have questions about this job.

NC State Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

GOT CANDIDATES? Find your next hire in over 100 newspapers across the state for only $375. Call Wendi Ray at NC Press Services for more info 919.516.8009.

SEEKING AN INDIVIDUAL To Provide Direct Client Services for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence, to Create and Support a Fundraising Plan for Jackson County Victim Services, and to Develop and Implement Education, Marketing, and Outreach Materials. If Interested, Please Submit a Resume to REACH of Macon County, PO Box 228 Franklin, NC 28744 or Send to: reach@reachofmaconcounty.org

CAVALIER ARMS APARTMENTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

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FURNITURE

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533 Hazelwood Ave. Waynesville 828.456.4240

LAWN & GARDEN

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Handmade in Haywood County. 1 for $20, 2 or More for $15 each.

828.593.8321 HEMLOCK HEALERS, INC. Dedicated to Saving Our Hemlocks. Owner/Operator Frank Varvoutis, NC Pesticide Applicator’s License #22864. 48 Spruce St. Maggie Valley, NC 828.734.7819 828.926.7883, Email: hemlockhealers@yahoo.com

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Hours:

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REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT LEASE TO OWN 1/2 Acre Lots with Mobile Homes & Empty 1/2 Acre + Lots!

Located Next to Cherokee Indian Reservation, 2.5 Miles from Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.

For More Information Please Call 828.506.0578 SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your MORTGAGE? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL Homeowner’s Relief Line now for Help 844.359.4330 SAPA

NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Offering 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $420.00

We Are Offering 2 Bedroom Apartments, Starting From $465.00

Section 8 Accepted - Rental Assistance When Available Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

Section 8 Accepted - Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

OFFICE HOURS:

OFFICE HOURS:

Tuesday & Thursday 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

50 Duckett Cove Road, Waynesville, NC 28786

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm 168E Nicol Arms Road Sylva, NC 28779

Phone# 1.828.456.6776 TDD# 1.800.725.2962

Phone# 1.828.586.3346 TDD# 1.800.735.2962

Equal Housing Opportunity

Equal Housing Opportunity

—————————————— Your Total Tree Service Company

FINANCIAL

BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

GEORGE

ESCARAVAGE

Mike Stamey

mstamey@beverly-hanks.com

828-508-9607

BROKER/REALTOR

—————————————— 28 WOODLAND ASTER WAY

ASHEVILLE, NC 28804

828.400.0901

GESCAR@BEVERLY-HANKS.COM

BEVERLY-HANKS.COM

74 NORTH MAIN ST. • WAYNESVILLE, NC

www.beverly-hanks.com

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT

HUNT YOUR OWN LAND Or Build Dream Cabin 68 acres on Hwy. 21 Alleghany & Wilkes Co., NC Selling: Sat, Oct. 14 @ 11am NCAL#685 336.789.2926 RogersAuctionGroup.com

HOMES FOR SALE - FOR SALE BY OWNER 3/BR 1/BA with detached studio.

Charming older home in residential area, walking distance to Downtown Waynesville. 1500+ sq. ft. includes updated kitchen with appliances; fireplace, carport, basement and open air front porch. Excellent school districts. Move-in ready! Detached Studio w/ Screened-in Porch. Potential for rental income (short or long-term), or a place for family and guests to enjoy. Asking $195,000. Call 828.246.0107 or 340.473.8617 for appointment.

BRUCE MCGOVERN A Full Service Realtor, Locally Owned and Operated mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com McGovern Property Management 828.283.2112.

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT

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74 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC

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Beverly Hanks & Associates

Ann Eavenson R B A ESIDENTIAL

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ITEMS FOR SALE

ROKER

SSOCIATE

ann@beverly-hanks.com

www.beverly-hanks.com

828.506.0542

828.452.5809 office

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American Made. Installation Included. Call 800.807.7219 for $750 Off.

Haywood County Real Estate Agents beverly-hanks.com Ann Eavenson - anneavenson@beverly-hanks.com George Escaravage - gescar@beverly-hanks.com Billie Green - BGreen@beverly-hanks.com Michelle McElroy - michellemcelroy@beverly-hanks.com Marilynn Obrig - mobrig@beverly-hanks.com Steve Mauldin - Smauldin@beverly-hanks.com Brian K. Noland - brianknoland.com Anne Page - apage@beverly-hanks.com Brooke Parrott - bparrott@beverly-hanks.com Jerry Powell - jpowell@beverly-hanks.com Catherine Proben - cproben@beverly-hanks.com Ellen Sither - ellensither@beverly-hanks.com Mike Stamey - mikestamey@beverly-hanks.com

ERA Sunburst Realty SFR, ECO, GREEN

147 WALNUT STREET • WAYNESVILLE

828.506.7137

aspivey@sunburstrealty.com

sunburstrealty.com • Amy Spivey - amyspivey.com • Rick Boarder - sunburstrealty.com

Keller Williams Realty kellerwilliamswaynesville.com • The Morris Team - www.themorristeamnc.com

www.sunburstrealty.com/amy-spivey Lakeshore Realty • Phyllis Robinson - lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

Steve Mauldin

828.734.4864

smauldin@beverly-hanks.com

74 N. Main St.,Waynesville

828.452.5809

beverly-hanks.com

BORING/CARPENTER BEE TRAPS No Chemicals, Poisons or Anything to Harm the Environment.

Handmade in Haywood County. 1 for $20, 2 or More for $15 each.

828.593.8321 COMMERCIAL RESTAURANT EQPT. For Sale: Imperial Electric Convection Oven, Globe 20 Qt. Mixer, Bavier 72” Sandwich Unit, 74” Tor Rey Refrigerated Display Case, Glass Front Dry 48” Display Case, Globe Deli Meat Slicer, Plus Lots of Smalls (Scales, Choppers, Etc.), 8- 2Top Tables & 2- 6Ft. Tables. Call 828.646.0303 For More Information & Prices.

Serious Buyers Only Please.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mountain Home Properties mountaindream.com • Cindy Dubose - cdubose@mountaindream.com

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

RE/MAX — Mountain Realty • • • • •

remax-waynesvillenc.com | remax-maggievalleync.com Holly Fletcher - hollyfletcher1975@gmail.com The Real Team - the-real-team.com Ron Breese - ronbreese.com Landen Stevenson - Landen@landenstevenson.com Dan Womack - womackdan@aol.com

Rob Roland Realty

smokymountainnews.com

GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE Conveniently located off 19/23

by Thad Woods Auction. Available for lease now: 10’x10’ units for $55, 20’x20’ units for $160.

Get one month FREE with 12 month contract. Call 828.507.8828 or 828.506.4112 for more info.

STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS Or Alcohol? Addicted to Pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 800.511.6075 SAPA

Cell: 828-734-9157 Office: 828-452-5809

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

SOUTHPORT, N.C. FOR SALE, Waterfront resort hotel condominiums. Pre construction prices.

Amazing views. Private fishing pier. Full kitchens. Waterfront swimming pool. Cooke Realty 910.616.1795 contactcooke@gmail.com

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Catherine Proben

WNC MarketPlace

LAND FOR SALE? Reach buyers across the state in over 100 newspapers for only $375. Call this newspaper or Wendi Ray at NC Press Services, 919.516.8009.

MEDICAL OXYGEN Anytime. Anywhere. No tanks to refill. No deliveries. The All-New Inogen One G4 is only 2.8 pounds!

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Call 855.969.8854

• Rob Roland - rroland33@gmail.com

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE 828.452.4251 | ads@smokymountainnews.com 53

www.smokymountainnews.com

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017

WNC MarketPlace

Super

54

CROSSWORD

23RD AMENDMENT ACROSS 1 Tussle (with) 8 Hindu chant 14 Robotic floor vacuum 20 Predicted 21 Daisy types 22 Relatives of 21-Across 23 Pounding one’s shawl?

25 Like sacred statues 26 Step up or down 27 Instant, for short 28 Santa — College 29 In history 30 Book parts 34 What aviator Orville or Wilbur was called?

37 Found on these pages 38 Kitty treater 39 Fill up fully 40 Celtics rival 41 “What the Butler Saw” dramatist Joe 42 Does penance 45 Sprinter Bolt 47 Small songbird with a cartoon cat?

50 60-min. units 51 “Rockaria!” band, in brief 54 Singer Clay 55 San — (Italian resort) 57 Poet W.H. — 59 Fusion 64 Old laundry machine that’s totally on the fritz?

66 Raving sort 67 People debating 70 Bistro, e.g.

71 “Goodbye, Columbus” author when he’s very angry?

73 Throw from a steed 74 Tea garnish

period 75 Apple debut of 1998 7 — Allan Poe 76 Mini-serving 8 Comic Jay 79 Prior to 9 Bunyan’s tool 80 Flan need 10 Story for an anchor 82 Damage done to a 11 Radials for a Rolls, periodical? say 89 Pub buys 12 Fails to stay poker91 Find a new place for, faced as a pet 13 Viper variety 92 Islamic equivalent of 14 Slickers and galoshes kosher 15 Wilde with wit 93 Trial attire 16 Bison-hunting tribe 96 Siestas 17 Household 98 “Mazel —!”

18 Intelligent 99 Hereditary sequence 19 Fancy ties 100 Declaration upon 24 “— the season!” pulling your valise force28 Gallery gala fully?

30 Grub 103 Many a handcuffed 31 Berlin man person 32 Funnyman Johnson 105 — -Jo (‘80s track 33 Hireling star) 34 “... three — a tub” 106 That guy’s 107 Certain Wall St. trad- 35 Ocean liquid 36 Hotel relative er 38 Cast a ballot 108 Paradigm 42 Take — view of 109 Hereditary 111 Actress Fay who was 43 “Bad!” sound 44 Shopping jag always cheerful?

46 Old Testament book 117 Get free of 48 Racial equality gp.

118 Silky goat or rabbit 49 Part of YTD 119 Helm handler 51 Lawn gadget 120 Beaches 52 Dirty looks 121 Observed in the 53 Ham — (deli classic) vicinity of 56 Rx signers 122 Actor Erik 58 Golden rule’s second word DOWN 59 Plenteous 1 Yackety-yak 60 Bill of “Real Time” 2 Lament 61 Japanese film genre 3 — Khan 62 Stitch’s cartoon pal 4 Impose 63 Dive variety 5 Capital of Kosovo 64 “Yeah, no kidding!”

6 Like the pre-Easter

65 Taylor of “The Nanny” 67 Chair part 68 Traipse 69 Sporty auto 72 Tepees’ kin 73 — Reader (alternative digest) 76 Sierra Nevada lake 77 Sea of — (waters off Ukraine) 78 Gaming “City” dweller 81 Non-Jews 83 Somehow manages with 84 Pair attached to an axle 85 Also- — (losers) 86 Scores 87 Arose (from) 88 Painter Paul 89 Nectar lover 90 CIA worker 93 Searches and robs 94 Wise-looking 95 Bucking one 97 Card game expert John 99 Bestows 101 Triangle, e.g.

102 Fly into — (get furious) 103 Madison Ave. output 104 Find a new purpose for 108 “— first you don’t succeed ...”

110 Corn spike 111 Once existed 112 — pro nobis 113 That gal’s 114 Levin or Glass 115 TV neighbor of Homer 116 Time of note

answers on page 48

WANTED TO BUY FREON R12 WANTED: Certified Buyer Will Pick Up And Pay Ca$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. 312.291.9169; www.refrigerantfinders.com

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SCHOOLS/ INSTRUCTION

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Healthcare, Business, Technology, Graphic Arts, more! Financial Aid for those that qualify! Call 877.551.2679 for info! Accredited member, ACCSC. FTCC Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Security Officer. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.com Human Resources Office Phone: 910.678.7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu An Equal Opportunity Employer

WEEKLY SUDOKU Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

Answers on Page 48

Blue jays arouse mixed feelings among humans

veryone knows what a blue jay looks and sounds like in a general sort of way. Their incandescent blue plumage and raucous “thief! thief! thief!” calls are a vibrant part of everyday life. It is a stunningly beautiful bird with a bag full of attitudes and postures.

Some years ago, a flock of several hundred blue jays pillaged the nests in the woodlands around our home, while the parent birds screamed in dismay. I fired my shotgun in the air many times in the futile hope that the noise would scare them away.

They went on with their gory business until the woodlands finally quieted down 20 minutes or so later as they passed over a far ridge. This nest-robbing habit was recorded as long ago as the early 19th century when Audubon observed that: “Everywhere the blue jay manifests the same

E

BACK THEN mischievous disposition. It imitates the cry of the sparrow [i.e., American kestrel] hawk so perfectly that the little birds in the neighborhood hurry into thick coverts, to avoid what they believe to be the attack of that marauder. It robs every nest it can find, sucks the eggs like the crow, or tears to pieces and devours the young birds.”

Columnist (Audubon’s painting of blue jays feeding on bird eggs is online at: http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2005/0 3/13/nyregion/13audu.large1.jpg.)

The fragmentation of the eastern forests in this century have given blue jays direct access to the nests of woodland species like the wood thrush, vireos, warblers, scarlet tanagers, Arcadian flycatchers, and others.

Their role in the decline of some of these species cannot be denied.

“But aren’t blue jays simply doing what they have done doing for countless centuries?” many wonder. “Their nest-robbing forays are as innate an instinct with them as are the annual migratory flights of rubythroated hummingbirds?”

In winter the blue jay is luminous.

Donated photo

George Ellison

Frozen Music The earth must be resonant, if bare, and you hear the lisping tinkle of chickadees from time to time and the unrelenting steel cold scream of a jay [which] never flows into a song; a sort of wintry trumpet, screaming cold; hard, tense, frozen music, like the winter sky itself; in the blue livery of winter’s band. It’s like a flourish of trumpets in the winter sky.

— Henry David Thoreau, journal entry for Feb. 12, 1854

Many years ago in an article written for Audubon magazine, naturalist Hal Borland noted that “critics call the blue jays brigands, nest-robbers, and murderers. Aside from judging them by human standards — and, don’t forget, we raise birds whose eggs we eat and whose plucked carcasses we broil or roast for the table — aside from that, research has shown that the blue jay’s average diet is 76 percent vegetable matter such

as nuts and seeds, 23 percent insects, and only 1 percent eggs, birdlings, salamanders, snails, and such animal life.”

As mad as I sometimes get with blue jays (read “eyebulging rage”), I can’t help admiring their bold antics.

They have calls that mimic a variety of hawk species. And they have a distinctive “pair bonding” call that consists of a series of three crystal-clear notes that sound like small bells ringing in the wind.

In his Birds of the Smokies, Ornithologist Fred Alsop is always careful to note that the bright blues of the jay’s feather are caused by structural elements within the feathers rather than “rich pigmentation.” This allows the jay to emit a more luminous blue than would otherwise be possible.

(George Ellison is a naturalist and writer.

He can be reached at info@georgeellison.com.)

Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017 Smoky Mountain News 55

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Smoky Mountain News Nov. 29-Dec. 5, 2017