There were well over 1,000 “No Kings” protests across the country Saturday, and WNC saw a strong turnout of its own. Across the region, folks from the mountains came out to make their voice heard, decrying perceived abuses of power by President Donald Trump and his administration. In Waynesville alone, organizers claimed that over 2,000 people attended, and The Smoky Mountain News was there to bring you the details. (Page 6) Cory Vaillancourt photo
Sylva Town Council rejects resolution of support for library system....................5 No Kings protest: A note about numbers....................................................................7 Spirit of America Celebration brings Republican candidates to Haywood........8 WCU breaks ground on massive stadium project....................................................9 WCU official describes ‘strategy’ to skirt DEI ban in undercover video..........10 Decorate Bone Valley and Hall cemeteries this weekend....................................11
One more show: Ric Savage’s last pinfall................................................................12
Opinion
Common sense needed in library debate..................................................................14
Aligning with the blue zones ..........................................................................................15 A&E
Rock’em, sock’em: Live wrestling comes to The Orange Peel............................16 Mountain street dance comes to Waynesville..........................................................19
Outdoors
Bryson City painter reflects on a lifetime of art inspired by nature....................24 Haywood Waterways hosts fishing tournament......................................................27
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Apair of local bills pushed by Rep. Mark Pless (RHaywood) — one welcomed by most, another, not so much — have recently taken important steps through the General Assembly, but still have a long way to go if they’re to become law.
The first, H169, would authorize the Haywood County Board of Commissioners to raise the room occupancy tax from 4% to 6%, but at a cost. All official municipal representation on the TDA’s board would be eliminated, including spending requirements delineated by zip code, and the board’s size would shrink by about half.
Residency requirements, however, would be implemented for board members for the first time, essentially requiring an equal number of members from the western part of the county and from the eastern part of the county. The county commission’s non-voting member would also be elevated to voting member, essentially giving the commission a formal sign-off on the TDA’s operations.
Initially, the bill had proposed defunding the Haywood TDA altogether by removing its authority to collect room occupancy taxes, which it must spend on marketing and on capital projects that benefit both tourists and locals. Pless had alleged improper spending by the agency.
But when the bill came out of the House Finance Committee, it instead offered the tantalizing increase the Haywood TDA had been seeking for years, even before Executive Director Corrina Ruffieux took the helm in early 2023.
on July 1. The note projects the same increase for the 202627 fiscal year, $1.7 million for the next two fiscal years and $1.8 million for fiscal year 2029-30.
Kevin Ensley, chair of the Haywood County Board of Commissioners, told The Smoky Mountain News on May 20 that he thought the 6% was a good idea, especially as it doesn’t put Haywood’s room occupancy tax rate above neighboring counties. Buncombe and Jackson counties both have a 6% room occupancy tax rate.
Once that happened, Ruffieux called it “a huge win for all of Haywood County.”
Tourism is a significant part of Western North Carolina’s economy. Of late, Haywood’s TDA has spent around $3 million a year in occupancy tax revenues after overhead. If the bill becomes law and Haywood commissioners opt to raise the room occupancy tax rate, that number will almost certainly rise above $4 million.
A fiscal note attached to the bill projects a $1.6 million increase in collections for fiscal year 2025-26, which begins
At the same time, Jennifer Best, the Haywood commissioner who currently serves on the TDA’s board, said she was excited about the bill and that keeping the rate at 4% could have left the county at a disadvantage.
reflects the removal of realtor and former Maggie Valley Aldermen Linda Taylor’s parcels on Summit Drive, right in front of the Maggie Valley police station.
Their motivations for deannexation are as diverse and decentralized as the parcels themselves, which are spread across town. Taylor had a 3.8-acre parcel on Moody Farm Road annexed into the town in 2006, anticipating development of an upscale RV park that stalled due to a January 2022 moratorium and subsequent down-zoning. Other owners cite fragmented parcels they wish to consolidate, or farm use.
De-annexation would relieve them of Maggie Valley’s municipal property tax, 40 cents per $100 in assessed value, leaving only the county’s 55-cent rate. However, they would lose services like local police, town water and sewer at municipal rates and trash pickup.
Mayor Mike Eveland and aldermen warn it could threaten zoning protections, potentially opening neighboring lands to unregulated development.
Together, the parcels are valued at just over $1.3 million. Deannexation would reduce general fund property tax rev-
De-annexation would relieve them of Maggie Valley’s municipal property tax, 40 cents per $100 in assessed value, leaving only the county’s 55-cent rate.
However, they would lose services like local police, town water and sewer at municipal rates and trash pickup.
Pless’ bill enjoyed broad bipartisan support in the House, passing its second and third readings by margins of 101-4 and 106-4, respectively.
As a local bill, the legislation will not make a stop on Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s desk for a possible veto if it clears the Senate, but as a local bill, it does need the assent of Haywood County’s two senators — Kevin Corbin (R-Macon) and Ralph Hise (R-Mitchell).
In this case, Pless’ TDA bill got that support. On June 11, the bill was referred to the Senate’s Rules Committee.
If the bill clears the Senate, Haywood commissioners would have to vote to levy the 6% room occupancy tax. If they don’t, neither the room occupancy tax rate nor the board composition would change and the rate stays at 4%.
The other bill — far more controversial — would allow several property owners within the municipal limits of Maggie Valley to de-annex from the town.
When Pless filed H336 on March 6, it contained a list of eight properties that had asked for deannexation. As second version listed nine properties, but the current third version lists only seven. The change between the second and third
enue by about $5,300 annually, or roughly 0.25%.
Eveland fears this move signals broader efforts to erode town jurisdiction, particularly given Pless’ recent bill stripping the town of its ability to exercise powers in its extraterritorial jurisdiction. The town board passed a resolution opposing H336 during its March 11 meeting, and aldermen remain vigorously opposed to the bill.
Like the TDA bill, Pless’ deannexation bill would need the support of Corbin and Hise to reach the Senate.
“In fairness, I have done the same thing for the town of Andrews a couple of times,” Corbin told The Smoky Mountain News on June 13. “They have had parcels that were on the edge of town that maybe shouldn’t have been in it.”
That bill, run in the House by Rep. Karl Gillespie (RMacon), got Corbin’s support because both the town and the property owners were in agreement on the deannexation — a condition that is not currently present in Maggie Valley.
Corbin said he’s heard concerns from Maggie Valley about the bill and that he would look deeper into the issue soon, but he has some time. The bill passed its second reading June 11 by a narrow party-line vote of 56-50, with four Republican defections.
As of press time, the bill was scheduled for a third reading in the House on June 17.
Two bills filed by Rep. Mark Pless (R-Haywood) have made NCGA photo
Sylva Town Council rejects resolution of support for Fontana Library system
BY C ORY VAILLANCOURT
P OLITICS E DITOR
Aproposed resolution that expressed support for the Fontana Regional Library system didn’t survive the first four minutes of the Town of Sylva Board of Commissioners meeting on June 12, after Commissioner Jonathan Brown moved to strike the item from the meeting’s agenda.
“This resolution, I just kinda learned about, and I don’t think it’s the job of this board to present a public statement on an issue going on in our community that is very polarizing right now,” Brown said. “We have not vetted this statement as a committee, as a board. We have not discussed it. I didn’t have a hand in crafting it. We have no real consequential action on this subject as a board, and I think to make a comment on behalf of the town that does not represent a good portion of the community would be irresponsible and inappropriate.”
Jackson County is currently embroiled in a fierce debate over the future of its public library in downtown Sylva. While most public speakers at county meetings have urged commissioners to remain a part of the FRL, a small but vocal group — many from neighboring Macon County — has pushed for withdrawal over concerns about LGBTQ+ materials.
After another long session of public comment June 3, County Manager Kevin King presented an analysis of what a withdrawal from the system might cost. Preliminary estimates are about $500,000 annually, with $300,000 in startup or transition costs — if current levels of service are maintained.
The county is already proposing a property tax increase for the upcoming fiscal year.
Brown’s move was perplexing, considering he went on to say that he hopes the library will remain part of the FRL and that he’s open to discussions on a resolution of support.
“As a board here, the Town of Sylva, I don’t think it’s our job,” he said. “And I think from what I understand, this resolution was sent to us from other towns in the county to jump on board with, and I’m not sure it was appropriate for them to issue a statement, either.”
Governing boards in Webster and Forest Hills unanimously passed resolutions of support for the FRL last week. Daniel Shields, mayor pro tem of Forest Hills, wrote the resolution.
“The Village of Forest Hills feels it’s our job to represent our constituents. As elected officials, we have to put our personal feelings aside because that’s our job,” Shields told The Smoky Mountain News June 14. “Jackson commissioners, at their last meeting, seemed more focused on their expendi-
tures than on the programs that the library provides for its citizens.”
Brown’s motion to strike passed by a vote of three to two. Brown, along with commissioners Blitz Estridge and Mary Gelbaugh, voted in favor, while commissioners Brad Waldrop and Joe Waldrum were opposed.
During public comment, Sylva resident Sarah Hirsch said she’d initially come to the meeting applaud the board for passing the resolution.
“I was hopeful that you were going to take a bold and conscientious move, just like you have in the past for Sylva Pride. You’ve proclaimed your support for Sylva Pride, for the Sylva Herald — you’ve proclaimed your support for the importance of the Herald in the history of this town, so I was like, ‘Yeah! OK!’” Hirsch said. “I know you may think, Jon, that you don’t have a say on this. You do. You have a moral say, you have a leadership say.”
Hirsch explained that most people don’t recognize the stratification of local governments — the town owns the fountain, the county owns the stairs and the library building, even though it’s within Sylva’s municipal limits — and that if the county withdraws from the FRL, tourism will be affected.
“We don’t need that,” she said, urging commissioners to take that bold step in the future. “We’ve got enough problems with the [Highway] 107 project, rebuilding parks and all that stuff post-hurricane. I don’t think we need to sow chaos and throw up a good thing, which is our library. Our library is awesome, and it’s awesome because of its connection to the Fontana Regional Library.”
Local conservative activist Keith Blaine said he’d actually come to speak to the board on other matters, but he applauded commissioners.
“I had been to the [Jackson County] commissioners’ meeting when they were discussing the library and I’ve seen really how divisive it is, so I kind of applaud you for not making this board politicized and divisive,” Blaine said.
Later in the meeting, Waldrop said he was proud of the town’s support of LGBTQ+ people, especially though its annual Pride festival, but he was disappointed that the resolution had been removed from the agenda.
“After what just happened, I would also agree with the public comment by Ms. Hirsch that we have an obligation to stand up for people in our community, and I think we just fell short of that,” Waldrop said.
Jackson County commissioners will hold their next regular meeting on June 17; however, they’ve set a joint meeting with the FRL board for June 19 in an attempt to find some compromise.
‘No Kings’ movement sweeps through Appalachia
BY CORY VAILLANCOURT P OLI-TICS E DITOR
Since 1932, the ashlar veneer of the Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville has borne silent witness to memorable events in local and national history — the Great Depression, World War II, Korea, the Civil Rights era, Vietnam, 9/11, Afghanistan, the Gulf Wars and most recently the county’s first LGBTQ+ Pride celebration — but a gathering on Flag Day, the same day President Donald Trump celebrated his birthday with a military parade in Washington, D.C., may prove to be just as enduring.
A diverse crowd of perhaps 1,500 showed up under sunny skies with temperatures in the 80s to protest what they see as an accelerating slide into authoritarianism. They came not just to protest a man, but a mindset. They came to say, “No Kings.”
The mountains of Western North Carolina have always bred a certain kind of independence, a wary relationship with power that long predates the United States itself. From Scotch-Irish settlers who bristled at British — and American — rule to backwoods moonshiners who evaded and resisted federal authority, the people of Southern Appalachia have never been especially welcoming to authority.
“From the Magna Carta signing in 1215 to the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, we have fought as human beings to reject that divine right of kings that was forced upon us to subjugate us,” said Andrew Aydin, the event’s keynote speaker and former congressional staffer to the late Civil Rights icon John Lewis. “And the United States of America represents the greatest leap forward in giving each and every person a voice and a say in how they are governed.”
earlier that day — two Democratic legislators, four people in total, had been shot in Minnesota by a far-right MAGA extremist, allegedly for their political positions. Two were killed.
In addition to reports of isolated incidents in San Francisco, Utah and Virginia, the Burnsville Police Department is currently investigating an altercation that occurred Saturday on the Town Square between Norman Rabek, 73, of Burnsville and Randy Horton Jr., 53, of Spruce Pine.
“Violence has escalated,” Aydin said.
The tone of the protest was somber but steady. It was not a march, but a stand. Attendees held handmade signs that read “Rejecting kings since 1776,” “Democracy dies in silence” and “Honk if you never drunk-texted war plans.”
At past rallies, occasional polite honks in support of demonstrators were the norm. This time, they blared nearly nonstop.
Waynesville’s event was one of more than 1,400 protests held nationwide under the banner of the “No Kings” movement, which drew several million people — far outshining the empty bleachers at Trump’s $40 million extravaganza in Washington, D.C.
According to reporting by Tricia Shapiro in NC News Digest, rallies across Western North Carolina likely drew more than 16,000 people, including to larger municipalities like Hendersonville and Asheville, where there were two separate events.
The real story, however, is about the rallies in the smaller, strongly pro-Trump counties west of Asheville, in towns like Brevard, Bryson City, Burnsville, Columbus, Hayesville, Highlands, Marion, Spindale, Sylva and Waynesville — only Asheville has anything resembling a Democrat-majority base.
The decentralized campaign grew in response to what organizers called a dangerous escalation of authoritarian rhetoric and symbolism from Trump and his allies.
But this protest, rooted in the hills of Western North Carolina, carried an added layer of resonance. As some speakers pointed out, resistance to centralized authority isn’t new here. That defiant streak, long a part of Appalachian identity, took on fresh urgency following the shocking news
truth and the deliberate manipulation of meaning.
“When words lose their meaning, they become tools of dictators and oligarchs, and that is what we face today,” he said.
The other featured speaker, veteran journalist and press freedom advocate Carolyn S. Carlson, focused on the First Amendment.
“There is freedom of speech, freedom of the press and of the right to assemble and the right to express grievances against the government. So we are here today to peaceably assemble and to petition for a redress of our grievances,” Carlson said. “Some of our grievances include the government’s attempt to abridge free speech and free press, and that’s what I want to talk about.”
She highlighted a lawsuit filed by the Associated Press against Trump, accusing him of retaliatory press bans and attempts to dictate editorial content. In the case of the AP, it was because the news agency refused to recognize his unilateral renaming of the Gulf of Mexico.
“Trump had a hissy fit and retaliated against the AP by kicking them out of covering him in the Oval Office and on
A large crowd showed up for Waynesville’s “No Kings” rally, and many brought signs.
testers and few disruptions. Instead, the courthouse became a kind of secular chapel, where speakers invoked not only constitutional rights but also mountain traditions of mutual aid and community defense.
Aydin, a farmer who lives in Henderson County, recounted Hurricane Helene and the solidarity it sparked.
“I remember those early days after Helene, everybody helped everybody,” he said. “Nobody asked what party you were. Nobody asked who you voted for. They said, ‘Do you need help? Okay, I will help you.’”
That ethic, Aydin argued, stands in contrast to what he called the weaponization of language and religion by those in power; he spoke passionately about the erosion of shared
She also warned of widespread gag orders across the fed-
“They’re threatening to arrest and prosecute anybody [in federal service] who says ‘hello’ to a reporter. Now they’re calling them leakers,” she said. “The main purpose of these gag orders is to keep you from finding out the truth.”
That message resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom, Carlson said, look to independent local news sources for information.
“We have a robust free press now, if we can afford to keep them,” Carlson said, urging listeners to support independent journalism through subscriptions and donations. “Go to their websites. Please subscribe. It’s vitally important to all of us that they keep going.”
Andrew Aydin. Cory Vaillancourt photo
Cory Vaillancourt photo
Jack Snyder photo
A note about numbers
Iget asked about it after every protest I’ve been to, from Andrews to Asheville, from Chicago to Washington, D.C., and everywhere in between.
Rally attendance is one of the most debated aspects of any public gathering — be it left, right, center, secular or spiritual. At outdoor venues that don’t use ticketing and don’t have fences or walls to contain the crowds, estimates can be even more difficult.
Sure, numbers don’t mean everything, but to some, they’re important. Organizers hope for solid attendance that can testify to an event’s popularity, which is precisely why such self-interested analysis can be unreliable.
But with some quick geometry and simple long division, one thing that can be definitively stated is how many people can fit on Haywood County’s most popular protest ground, the Historic Haywood County Courthouse.
Using Google Earth, a protest area of just the central concrete walkway and the two quarter-circles on either side — with cutouts for the landscaping separating them — is shown to contain roughly 10,228 square feet.
For events where people mostly stand, some
fortable.” According to personal and perimeter security product retailer Sonoco Crowd Control, planning 6 square feet for person is a good rule of thumb. “Mosh-pit” density is around 2.5 square feet per person.
Using those estimates and the defined area on the courthouse lawn, 4,091 people could fit if the whole place was packed at 2.5 square feet
per person; 1,704 people could fit at 6 square feet per person and 1,022 could fit at 10 square feet per person.
For accuracy, it’s important to note that crowd density is rarely uniform, and it certainly wasn’t at the June 14 “No Kings” rally.
The central concrete walkway alone contains 1,475 square feet and thus can hold between 147 and 590 people. During the rally, most of this area was pretty close to that 2.5 square-foot density.
Areas on the lawn near the stage were
Most of the signs alluded to President Donald Trump’s perceived abuses of power. Jack Snyder photo
initiative pairing Hurricane Helene survivors with professional comic book artists to tell their stories.
“Every law is a story, every piece of legislation is a story, and we have to take back our
ten about us. They’ve forgotten about how the federal government is not sending us the money they promised.”
The project will debut at the Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center
in Waynesville on June 17 and will include nationally recognized artists such as Brian Michael Bendis, who co-created Miles Morales and wrote for Marvel’s Daredevil series.
That sense of abandonment by distant powers has long been felt in Appalachia. Whether under kings or presidents, Appalachian communities have often borne the costs of policy without reaping the benefits. From coal wars to Helene, from the lumber barons to lawmakers in Raleigh, the region has always nurtured suspicion of top-down control.
The final words belonged again to Aydin, echoing both John Lewis’ “good trouble” mantra and the spirit of the mountains.
“We all have to be prepared to organize. Not just one day, not just one week or one month. We’ve got to be in this for years,” Aydin said. “We have to reaffirm our commitment to the fact that we are Americans and we believe in democracy.”
equally dense but thinned out towards the sides and back along North Main Street. Each semicircular lawn segment contains approximately 4,300 square feet and thus can hold between 430 and 1,720 people.
Drilling deeper, there are two triangular areas on either side of the stage, the southernmost adjoining Depot Street and the northernmost adjoining the Haywood County Justice Center. On June 14, some demonstrators had lined up along North Main Street near the mailbox and crosswalk, about as far north as the Justice Center sign — but there’s not really much room there.
Although there were people in the “triangles” and along North Main, it wasn’t a mosh pit, so we’ll disregard those areas altogether to ensure a conservative estimate for this event, and for future events.
Conservatively, the bulk of the Haywood County Courthouse lawn can easily hold 1,000 people on the low end and 4,000 people on the high end.
Organizers of the June 14 rally claimed 2,200. Are they right? Maybe — but at least they’re in the ballpark of what’s feasible.
I attended the rally, and even at a relatively spacious at 6.8 square feet per person would feel comfortable with an estimate of about 1,500 people. Still, it was easily the largest such event I’ve been to, on that lawn, in more than nine years of reporting.
— Cory Vaillancourt, Politics Editor
A relatively conservative delineation of the protest area at the historic Haywood County Courthouse suggests a square footage of more than 10,000. Google Earth photo
Rep. Chuck Edwards was invited to the event but didn’t show up. Cory Vaillancourt photo
LSpirit of America Celebration brings Republican Senate candidates to Haywood
featured music, professional wrestling, a car show and a hearty helping of conservative politics.
Following the event, event organizer and Haywood GOP Treasurer Kim Genova thanked the volunteers that made the event go smoothly, as well as those who turned out.
“The event proved to be an excellent opportunity for everyone to celebrate the Spirit of America,” she said in a message. “We gathered as proud Americans to honor Flag Day — and enjoy great music, good food and amusing wrestling matches. It was a glorious day in Maggie Valley!”
Two candidates for the U.S. Senate seat up for election next year showed up for the event to engage with voters — Republicans Don Brown and Andy Nilsson — both of whom aim to unseat incumbent Thom Tillis in a primary. Both men tried to draw a contrast from Tillis, who has drawn heat from state and national Republicans at times when he’s bucked President Donald Trump’s agenda. Both Brown and Nilsson have run for office before — Brown for Congress in 2024 and Nilsson for Lieutenant Governor in 2000. They also both plan to run on a platform of unflinching loyalty to Trump. While the two men are similar in their opposition to Tillis and want to support Trump’s agenda, their backgrounds are quite different.
Brown is a former Navy Judge Advocate General, meaning he served as an attorney, which he now does in civilian life at his Mecklenburg County law office. In addition, he’s a prolific writer who has penned over a dozen books. Brown said he is choosing to run for Senate not only because he wants to
“We gathered as proud Americans to honor Flag Day — and enjoy great music, good food and amusing wrestling matches. It was a glorious day in Maggie Valley!”
— Kim Genova
Brown knows from his appearances on Fox News, for Secretary of Defense.
“That was the straw that broke the
on a daily basis.
Standing against someone, such as Tillis this case, is fairly easy, but Brown was also happy to talk about what he stands for, the things he wants to see in national government. Basically, it all boils down to reducing the federal government to its basic constitutional functions — providing a national defense and upholding the Commerce Clause. To do this, Brown believes in abolishing the federal income tax — meaning getting rid of the IRS — and using tariffs to generate revenue.
“If it’s not in the constitution, for example the Department of Education, there’s no role in the federal government for it,” he said.
Nilsson is a retired businessman who used to run plant and factory operations around the world in a variety of industries from concrete to plastics to metal fabrication. After 30 years in that field, 15 of which he owned his own business, Nilsson retired to focus on what he really wanted to do — coach high school football. He is now the defensive line and special teams coach at a school in the Winston-Salem area. In addition, he works with exceptional children at the school.
Last year, Nilsson ran for a position within the Republican National Committee, saying he hoped to bring “transparency and openness” to the party. He ultimately lost that effort but garnered 40% of the vote, and he said that afterward he was approached by people who thought he could primary Tillis.
an interesting process and could be a bit taxing.
“But when you get to your destination, you’re energized talking to great people all over the state,” he said.
Brown said he considers it an advantage that he’s not “a politician” but admitted that fundraising is a huge task. In addition, he said just staying on top of his schedule and not double-booking can be a challenge. In a large and diverse state like North Carolina, there are several things he could — and maybe even should — attend
He described his reasons for wanting to oppose the state’s senior senator.
“There’s a lack of accountability, lack of transparency and not being true to the voters who put him in,” Nilsson said. “I thought about it and said, ‘I’m a retired businessman; I’ve got time to do it.’ This campaign is about bringing North Carolina the same kind of representation that I remember seeing when I was growing up.”
Nilsson is referring to Jesse Helms, a conservative stalwart who served six terms in the senate and gained notoriety for staunchly opposing a number of progressive movements, including feminism and gay rights.
“Jesse Helms was known across this state for being a straight shooter and always living up to his word and telling people exactly how he was going to vote … so I compared Jesse Helms and Thom Tillis and they were just very different. For Thom Tillis, to me, voting is very situational.”
The filing period to run for Tillis’ Senate seat opens up in December, and the primary will be held in May ahead of the November 2026 General Election.
B N
Senate Candidate Andy Nilsson speaks with voters. Kyle Perrotti photo
Haywood County GOP Chair Michael Loomis. Kyle Perrotti photo
The event featured a car show with an award given for the most patriotic entry. Kyle Perrotti photo
WCU breaks ground on massive stadium project
LUniversity kicked off a massive $37 million renovation to the school’s E.J. Whitmire Stadium last Thursday.
The event, which brought in a large and energetic crowd, severed as a groundbreaking ceremony for the project, which will include a new press box, coaches’ offices, player study areas and a hospitality center which will be known as the “Western Skybox.” The stadium, which is over 50 years old, will now feature over 10,000 square feet of new space.
The project is just one part of a larger campaign to upgrade facilities funded partially by $30 million raised from student athletics fees, which were increased following approval from student government in 2021. At the groundbreaking ceremony, Student Government Association
President Grady Jones spoke about the fee increase and why it is important to make these renovations a reality.
tion toward improvements for athletics programs and facilities and increase scholarship support for student-athletes. Our facilities have grown long in the tooth and are in need of much attention.”
Board of Trustees Chair Casey Cooper thanked the folks that have given.
“Donors, your commitment is making a
past, present and future alumni and friends; community members; and fans of the Catamount sports teams. As we look ahead, the Fill the Western Sky Campaign will allow us to continue this momentum and elevate WCU to new heights.”
Chancellor Kelli R. Brown noted that the progress won’t stop here.
“When I think back to the roar of a packed stadium, classmates united in purple and gold and the memories we carry long after the final whistle, I’m reminded college is more than coursework,” Jones said. “It’s a community, and today we invest in a stronger more spirited future for that community.”
The money also came from donations collected as part of the “Fill the Western Sky” campaign, which is nearing its goal of raising $100 million. Randy White, a cochair of the campaign steering committee, noted that previous fundraising campaigns were more focused on providing scholarships for students, but this was the first time that the money would go toward improving athletic facilities.
“Those campaigns have resulted in
“This is just one piece of our broader vision to create opportunities for students to build a legacy and ensure the success of our athletics program,” she said. “We are taking a phased approach in much needed and long overdue upgrades to our athletics facilities, starting with these upgrades and featuring the flexibility for additional enhancements, not just here at Whitmire stadium, but across all our athletic programs.”
Brown also specifically discussed the renovations to the stadium, which she said will transform it “into a modern, dynamic facility that enhances the game day experience for our students and fans.”
“It will provide cutting edge amenities for our student athletes, coaches and staff, helping WCU to continue to attract top-tier talent and compete at the highest levels,” she said.
Athletic Director Kyle Pifer, who was named to that role last month, offered the closing remarks, during which he thanked people for the contributions that made these renovations possible while also calling for more support as the school continues to improve facilities that will be enjoyed by generation after generation of students.
“We know that this renovation is just the beginning of many more to come,” he said. “Together, we’re ready to continue to build a legacy of Fill the Western Sky, supporting our students, programs and our athletics achievements. As we look ahead, we invite you to deepen your connection with us and Catamount athletics by joining Catamount club and getting your season tickets.”
real difference in the lives of our students, from scholarships to academic excellence endowments,” he said. “From student engagement and experiential learning to critical investments in campus infrastructure, your contributions are at the heart of WSU continued success.”
Likewise, Cooper also thanked the students for the added contributions that came from those athletic fees.
“Simply put, we would not be able to meet our goal without them,” he said.
“Thanks to incredible advocacy on behalf of members of the Student Government Association and other student leaders, our students agreed to an increase in their athletic fees that will result in $30 million in fund-
Over
WCU Chancellor Kelli R. Brown addresses the large crowd. Ashley Evans, WCU, photo
Ashley Evans, WCU, photo
WCU official describes secret ‘strategy’ to skirt DEI ban in undercover video
BY CORY VAILLANCOURT P OLITICS E DITOR
Asenior administrator at Western Carolina University was secretly recorded describing how the school is continuing to promote diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives despite a systemwide ban enacted by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors last year.
The undercover footage was released June 10 by Accuracy in Media, founded in 1969 by conservative economist and media watchdog Reed Irvine. The recording captures Karen Price, WCU’s then-director of institutional assessment, explaining how DEI efforts remain entrenched in the university’s operations.
“We’re trying to embed that kind of diversity, equity, inclusiveness — inclusive excellence — really across like every area should have responsibility for that. It shouldn’t just be like an office or a figurehead,” Price says in the video, which AIM claims was filmed on campus by one of its operatives earlier this year. “So the work is still occurring very much here at Western, you just might see it called different things.”
“And if you embed it, it can’t be legislated out,” AIM’s operative posited to Price.
“There you go. Now you’re understanding the strategy behind what it is,” Price replied.
The UNC Board of Governors, which oversees all 17 public universities in North Carolina, voted last May to eliminate DEI offices and related expenditures. The move followed a national wave of legislative and executive actions aimed at restricting DEI programs in public education.
In the video, Price is heard detailing how WCU has adapted to the new political climate by decentralizing DEI responsibilities, repurposing roles and dispersing funding more broadly throughout the university’s structure — without formally violating the rules.
The implication, according to AIM, is that WCU is actively working to circumvent state policy by hiding DEI work in plain sight.
functions of how do we do that in the spirit of legislation in the current political climate is to not have one person as a chief diversity officer, but have those initiatives spread [out] more … so that position really ends up repurposed through other positions so we can do the work but stay within the context of the requirements politically to not create issues.”
Price also referenced other institutions in the UNC system that suffered job losses after
2019 and a longtime critic of DEI programs, said that more videos are coming, and that these investigations are necessary to expose what he calls “radicals” operating with impunity in taxpayer-funded institutions.
“First off, hidden camera investigative journalism is by far the most honest form of journalism,” Guillette told The Smoky Mountain News June 11. “When the New York Times quotes an anonymous source
Chancellor Kelli Brown, through a spokesperson, refused multiple requests for an interview with The Smoky Mountain News. Brown’s office did issue a statement, but it didn’t answer any of the questions SMN intended on asking.
Additionally, pair of June 3 emails that were sent by administrators to various WCU employees but leaked to The Smoky Mountain News warns employees against speaking to outsiders about DEI in light of the situation at UNCC.
Thus, it remains unclear what, if any, formal investigations have been launched or whether WCU believes Price’s comments were taken out of context or deceptively edited. The release of the footage is likely
Two weeks later, according to AIM, WCU posted a job opening for Price’s position. Her name no longer appears in the university’s staff directory.
While supporters of the ban argue that public universities should remain politically neutral and fiscally accountable, critics say the campaign against DEI is politically motivated and ultimately counterproductive to efforts aimed at fostering inclusive environments for students and faculty.
Price, speaking candidly in the video, seems to acknowledge that political pressures have forced institutions like WCU to adopt more subtle methods of achieving the same goals.
“We are still absolutely doing all of that work,” Price said in the video. “One of the
through its affiliated site, savencschools.com, encouraging North Carolinians to contact the UNC Board of Governors and demand disciplinary action against WCU.
The video marks the latest in a series of AIM’s undercover stings targeting what it describes as ideological indoctrination in public education and comes after a similar video of an incident at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, released by AIM a few weeks ago, in which an administrator states that although the school no longer has a DEI officer, “if you are interested in doing work that is covert, there are opportunities.” The administrator no longer works for UNCC.
A similar video emerged as the result of another AIM investigation at UNCAsheville. The administrator in that video no longer works for UNCA.
Adam Guillette, president of AIM since
tive journalism shows people in their own
“It’s
want and ignoring the rules,” Guillette
really hard to tell whether or not they they’re using a workaround or if they’re just doing whatever the heck they want and ignoring the rules.”
Adam Guillette President, Accuracy in Media
words, discussing exactly what’s going on.”
Guillette believes that if he’d simply asked WCU if they were violating the Board’s direction on DEI initiatives, they wouldn’t have admitted it.
“As always, when you capture these people breaking the rules, ignoring the laws, doing whatever they want to advance their agenda, they don’t know what to say because they’ve never been held accountable before.” Guillette said in the video.
said. “And I think that’s on the Board of Governors to determine. It’s undeniable that these people think that they’re above the law, that they think that they’re above the rules and that they’re going to do whatever the heck they want, and it’s clear to me that they’re either ignoring the rules or circumventing them and that action needs to be taken.”
On June 12, Brown issued another statement, saying she’d decided to close the school’s Office of Intercultural Affairs.
An undercover video filmed at Western Carolina University this year raises questions over the school's compliance with guidance from the UNC Board of Governors. File photo
Decorate Bone Valley and Hall cemeteries
With the help and cooperation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the North Shore Cemetery Association will be hosting decorations at Bone Valley and Hall cemeteries on Sunday, June 22 with the first boat shuttle leaving at 8:30 a.m. and the last boat leaving at 10 a.m. from the Cable Cove Boating Access Area near Fontana Village.
Participants are asked to wear sturdy footwear and clothing suitable for hiking and outdoor activities. Remember to bring any prescription medications or other necessary items along with foul weather gear. Decorations are held regardless of weather. People may bring their own lunch, drinks and snacks, or a dish or two to share with those who “pot luck”. There are picnic tables at Bone Valley and plates and tableware are provided. Pets are not allowed, and service animals must be vested and muzzled if they bite.
Lunch will be between the Bone Valley and Hall decorations and shuttles will return back to Proctor immediately after lunch for those not going on to Hall. Most participants will be back to Cable Cove by 4:30 p.m.
There is generally a large attendance for these two decorations. Be prepared to wait up to an hour for the shuttles. Bone Valley (118 graves) is six miles up Hazel Creek and Hall (18 graves) is an additional two miles up Bone Valley Creek.
Hurricane relief cashflow loans released
The Department of State Treasurer has notified local governments of their second round of interest-free loans for Hurricane Helene relief. This round of Cashflow Loans uses the remaining $34.4 million provided by the legislature in the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024.
Round 2 of the Cashflow Loans utilizes money set aside in February at the request of local governments who needed more time to assess damages and get their paperwork completed. Many local governments requested additional funding due the extent of their damages, ongoing cleanup and cashflow needs while seeking resources through more traditional means, like FEMA.
This loan program was created to help bridge the gap for communities who are waiting for federal dollars needed to help with rebuilding and cleanup efforts. Unlike traditional loans, local governments did not have to go through the complex process of applying for these; instead, DST was able to use the local government’s emergency request paperwork to calculate their loan needs for Round 1. The only step local governments had to take was to approve acceptance of the money.
DST announced the availability of Round 2 loan funding in a memo sent in May. That memo directed local governments who were interested in receiving additional funds to apply via DST’s website. Thirty-four units of local government applied for loans during this round. If approved by the local government, the loans would need to be repaid in five years with no additional interest being added.
One more show
But even over the last couple of years, especially in light of his match during a 2020 event in Jackson County, people were asking him if was still wrestling. He’d said he’d considered himself retired, and he didn’t want to be that guy who goes out for his last match and can barely move around the ring, but he still wanted to have one final match so he could get a proper sendoff.
The plan was originally to do his last match Oct. 5 of last year, but then Hurricane Helene hit and shut everything down. Finally, Huguelet worked it out to wrestle at the Spirit of America celebration. While it’s common in such a theatrical profession to falsely claim retirement and suffer many dramatic returns late in one’s career, Huguelet promised that wouldn’t be the case for him.
When discussing what compels a man to step back in the ring when ought to be done, Huguelet posited that it boils down to ego.
“You know, you’re sitting at home, and you’re looking at other people doing what you used to do. They’re getting the cheers, and you’re sitting there going, ‘I could still do that,’” he said. “And then you say, ‘Let’s do it.’ And then you get there and you’re like, ‘Why did I do this?’ It’s all ego. There’s nothing else that would make somebody at my age get a ring.”
BY KYLE PERROTTI
N EWS E DITOR
Heavy Metal Ric Savage couldn’t stand it. He was helpless, sidelined while his tag-team partner, Shane Austin, took a beating from a pair of masked maniacs.
Just when things looked their bleakest, after barely breaking free of a chokehold, Austin mustered the strength to tag Savage in. Savage went to work, dishing out elbows like hot biscuits on a Sunday morning before grabbing each villain by the neck and banging their heads together like Moe would do Larry and Curly. He secured the
pinned one last time. After all, this was Heavy Metal Ric Savage’s last match, and a professional wrestler must go out on their back.
Savage’s final bout was the main event after several other matches Saturday at The Maggie Valley Fairgrounds during a count GOP event billed as a “Spirit of America” celebration, which Savage also emceed once he was done with his fight. The wrestling was clearly the main draw, as crowds cheered, jeered and gasped during each match of the event, which was put on by Wrestling for Christ, a Kings Mountainbased organization that uses the sport as a
ing money for mission trips.
Just prior to his match, Savage, a 56year-old Jackson County native whose government name is Frank Huguelet, sat down with The Smoky Mountain News. At that time, he was happy and conversational but antsy. The courage to step back into the ring was there, but at some point, the body rebels. This is a truth Huguelet had already accepted.
“I promise you I’m not doing a moonsault from the top rope,” Huguelet said, adding that it’d been a couple of years since he’d been out of the ring at that point. “I haven’t done any major shows since the
An hour later, standing under the hot summer sun surrounded by Maggie Valley’s ancient green mountains, Huguelet was once again — once and for all — Heavy Metal Ric Savage. He waited alongside Austin as they watched their opponents, AWOL — an ominously masked duo in camouflage pants — enter the ring. The ultimate heels, AWOL had some words for the crowd. Knowing most in attendance were ardent conservatives, they knew just how to cast the perfect insults.
“If you rednecks would have voted for Kamala like we did, we wouldn’t be in the shape we’re in today, all you Trump supporters,” one of the masked men said. Savage entered the ring just behind Austin. While many wrestlers that day walked out to alternative Christian music like P.O.D., Savage was preceded by the famous blues-rock lick that
Ric Savage pleads with the ref to let him enter the ring. Kyle Perrotti photo
Savage’s partner for the match, Shane Austin, looked like he’d lost all hope as he was put in a chokehold by one of the members of AWOL. Kyle Perrotti photo
Shane Austin (front) and Heavy Metal Ric Savage walk out to the ring. Kyle Perrotti photo
stepped into the ring as the chorus hit, removing his black cowboy hat and matching jacket with faux bandoliers looping over each shoulder, focused.
A 75-year-old woman in the crowd called out to the ref, insisting he do his job and make sure the member of AWOL who was starting the match in the ring wasn’t hiding a weapon.
“Check him, referee!” she shouted repeatedly.
“Shut up granny,” the masked man responded. “You’re so old you fart dust.”
But enough talking. It was time to grapple. The bell rang, and Austin squared off with his opponent, trading blows for a minute until he tagged Savage, who did much of the same. Savage tagged Austin again, and Austin proceeded to take a licking from both members of AWOL as Savage pleaded with the referee to let him come into the match. Once Austin barely managed to tag Savage, the match was over in a minute.
Fresh off the victory, Savage was ready for one last moment in the ring. He took the microphone.
“This is the last time I’m ever going to wrestle in a professional wrestling show,” he told the crowd. “I started in 1990 in a garage in Waynesville, North Carolina. I
had a great career, worked with a lot of amazing people, and I wanted to end it with some of the people I started it with.”
His good friends KC Thunder, a former wrestler, and Joe Wheeler, a play-by-play broadcaster, joined him.
“KC and I worked some of these shows together from day one,” Savage said. “Joe has always been there as a manager, and he’s one of the best ring announcers in wrestling, so what I want you guys to do is I want you to help count me out for the last time.”
“Then I’ll officially be a retiree,” he added. Savage handed the mic off and squared off with KC Thunder, who delivered a sharp blow to Savage’s head and pinned him with the crowd counting along.
Following the match, when asked how it felt to be done-done, Huguelet said all things considered, it was anti-climactic, but he was thankful to have his friends KC and Joe there with him. Not everyone he came up with has made it this far.
“We just lost Sabu a couple weeks ago,” he said. “Probably 30% of the guys I worked with are dead. I think about them.”
But Huguelet, now casting aside the tough-guy Heavy Metal Ric Savage persona, smiled.
“Now that the pressure’s off,” he said with a pause, “I guess I can say I feel great.”
Savage wasn’t in
long, but he made the time count. Kyle Perrotti photo
Heavy Metal Ric Savage gets pinned for the last time. Kyle Perrotti photo
Common sense needed in library debate
I have supported libraries in WNC for over 12 years and been a lifelong library patron. I support all viewpoints being equally represented on shelves providing that librarian gatekeepers allow true balance. However, I do not support or trust an unaccountable bureaucracy with its thumb on the scales of public opinion that entangles three different counties causing unnecessary conflict.
There was never controversy until the American Library Association (of which the Fontana Regional Library system staff are members) decided several years ago to “move libraries to the left.” That statement came directly from the former ALA president who is a self-proclaimed Marxist. How would people react to the ALA and the FRL “moving libraries to the right?” Through non-library functions as described in the FRL’s Long Range Goals policy, the FRL has carried water for the DEI movement doing exactly the opposite of bringing people together. Why is “environmental sustainability, affordable living, recreation and leisure services, social responsibility, health and wellness, and diversity, equity, and inclusion” suddenly a job of a library when those matters have never been library business before? Neighboring county libraries do not pursue those functions. If a bureaucrat thinks it’s a good idea, why not spend public money opening a mechanic’s garage in the Health Department or incorporate a fruit and vegetable stand at the county landfill?
we see the fallout nationwide and coverup with emotion and disinformation. How would people on the left like for the FRL to “Back the Blue” in the wake of the George Floyd movement or actively promote ideas such as traditional family values, abstinence, prayer, adoption, pro-life or America First? All of these topics are popular nationwide, yet the FRL does not recognize any of them with library culture or preference, nor should it. The majority of people don’t want to ban books or push an agenda; we just want libraries to be libraries, not activist centers. It’s really that simple.
It’s been pointed out by others that FRL’s problems go deeper than content. They’re also financial. In Macon County, with a population of 38,065, the 2024–25 budget allocated $1.18 million to library services — $30.99 per capita. That’s nearly double the spending of counties like Yadkin ($14.03) or Alexander ($20.26), which operate comparable or greater numbers of library branches. Jackson County spends even more — $1.38 million, or $31.01 per resident — making it the highest per capita spender among counties its size in the state. With that kind of money sloshing around, what are we doing about safety? Drug needles are constantly found around library buildings, and a sex offender has been caught in a Jackson County library more than once.
Leaving FLR just doesn’t make sense
Citizens and constituents of Sylva, I’d like to offer you an apology. In fact, I owe you two.
All Sylva residents are also Jackson County constituents — Sylva is the county seat, and county-level decisions affect us directly. The Jackson County Public Library is a clear example.
Sylva has one appointment to the Jackson County Public Library Advisory Board, which must be filled by a town commissioner. Recently, the Sylva Town Board unanimously appointed me to this role. Since then, only one official board meeting has taken place, which I attended, but I’ve spent many hours meeting with fellow board members, local citizens, library staff and the director of both the Jackson County and Fontana Regional Library (FRL) systems. I’ve researched relevant legal and ethical issues — especially regarding First Amendment protections and attended or watched county commissioner meetings, as many of you have.
The FRL director once admitted at a board meeting in 2023 that “the FRL strives to promote a certain culture.” Why is culture a job of any publicly funded organization? There is ample evidence of targeting children with sexual book promotions and literature along with other ideological examples such as tampons in men’s bathrooms, BLM flags, over-the-counter pharmacies and pronoun usage suddenly becoming vogue at the FRL. When patrons respectfully protested, the FRL refused compromise (even as other libraries evolved away from this ideology) and doubled down by changing their policies to further insulate themselves. The FRL even banned speech at public meetings without a vote from the trustees. Libraries are supposed to be for everyone no matter our political stripes. Public places are where we are supposed to find common ground, yet when social and political ideologies get preference,
Finally, the FRL tells us that certain people groups deserve to be represented, but guess who is really under-represented? Red heads. Elderly people. Haitians. Handicapped. None of these groups choose to be that way, yet where is their subjective month of celebration, book promotions, drag queen story hour or bathroom use? What about farmers, ballet dancers, and utility linemen? Bottom line is that no one cares if a person is heterosexual, prefers the Vols to the Tar Heels, likes ham sandwiches over PB&J, or is gay. We all already have the same equal rights. No one is being oppressed by someone merely disagreeing with their lifestyle. The entire notion of sexual ideology being something society focuses on is ridiculous. This ideology was rejected by nationwide democracy in 2024. Poll after independent poll reveal that Americans are tired of the nonsense. Just be secure in your lifestyle without playing the victim card. None of us as mere humans are entitled to special treatment or recognition. We can be nice to each other no matter what lifestyle we desire, but our politicized preferences never belong on display at public locations paid for with public money. It’s time for county governments to reclaim fiscal control and common sense to ensure accountability.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve invested as much time in this issue as I have in my business and family because I believe, as you do, that our library is a true gem. People from across the country and beyond visit and praise it, often calling it “wonderful.” As your representative on the library board, I’d like to provide a clear, transparent summary of what’s happening.
The proposal to leave the Fontana Regional Library system rests on two claims made by county commissioners:
1. The presence of “inappropriate” materials and displays.
2. The belief that the county could run the library more affordably and efficiently outside the FRL.
I believe the commissioners have a responsibility to answer two fundamental questions:
1. Which books, materials or displays are considered inappropriate, and why?
2. What evidence supports the claim that the library can be better or more affordably managed outside the FRL?
I’ve asked a commissioner — who also sits on the advisory board — these questions multiple times. He has refused to answer. In publicly available emails, he suggested I look online for lists being circulated of “inappropriate” books. When I clarified that I wanted specifics directly from him, he stopped responding. Regarding financial feasibility, he admitted he couldn’t provide supporting data
because he’s still “gathering” it.
So far, the rationale appears to be:
• There are inappropriate books — but they won’t name them or explain why.
• The library could be cheaper to run independently — but they have no data to support that.
Meanwhile, the county manager has advised Jackson County commissioners that leaving the FRL would cost taxpayers at least $500,000 more per year. Other estimates are even higher and don’t include the large onetime transition costs. Logistics of the transition are often brushed off with vague comments like, “we’ll figure it out.”
Here’s my report to you: Leaving the FRL will not save money — it will cost significantly more. The county is considering spending at least $5 million over the next decade to run a less effective library system, based on unspecified, possibly imaginary materials that can’t be legally censored. And those advocating for this change lack experience in running a library. They plan to “figure it out” later.
As Sylva residents, you are Jackson County taxpayers. This is your money. At the very least, you deserve honest answers. I’ve been trying to get them for you, and I’m sorry I haven’t succeeded yet. I will keep trying.
Now for the second apology.
At our June 12 Sylva Town Board meeting, we were scheduled to discuss and vote on a resolution supporting Jackson County’s continued participation in the FRL. I support such a resolution because I don’t believe taxpayers should spend at least $5 million more for a weaker library system — especially without clear justification. As a town with a direct appointment to the library board, we have a duty to represent your interests.
However, three members of the Sylva Town Board unexpectedly motioned to remove even discussion of the resolution from our agenda. Their justification: since we’re not the final decision-makers, we shouldn’t weigh in. So while your money may be used for an unjustified, costly downgrade, we shouldn’t even discuss taking a stand.
I strongly disagree. I was appointed to represent you on this issue. I wasn’t consulted about the agenda change, despite arguably having the most insight on the topic. The vote to remove the item from our agenda blindsided me. It feels like an attempt to silence our voice — your voice.
This was a failure of leadership. We had a chance to represent your interests and chose not to act. In fact, we chose not to even talk about it. I apologize for that. I will continue working for transparency and accountability on this issue, and I will not remain silent. You deserve better.
Guest Columnist
Brad Waldrop
Guest Columnist
Jim Gaston
Aligning with the blue zones
With each passing year, I think more and more about the longevity of life. When I was young, I couldn’t wait to be older, to reach those milestone birthdays — 16, 18, 21. Even turning 10 was fun because it’s the first double digit and also 13 because one can finally use the descriptor “teenager.”
During early motherhood, it seemed like I had eons ahead of me, decades to nurture my babies, accomplish big goals, travel the world and become the best version of myself. Isn’t that what we all dream about when we’re young?
But as my boys started rapidly aging and growing from children into young men, the speed of passing years slapped me in the face until Father Time and I had a reckoning, and instead of feeling fearful or sad about life flying by, I moved to a place of acceptance, which not only feels more gentle and encouraging, but also makes each day more precious.
Several years ago, I listened to a podcast on the famous blue zone areas of our world and have been intrigued by the concept ever since. Not only did it offer insight into why there are pockets around the globe where many people live beyond 100 (centenarians), it also showed me why America is sick.
If you’re unfamiliar with the blue zone concept, it’s a phrase coined by National Geographic explorer and longevity expert Dan Buettner. There are five original blue zones — places around the world with the healthiest, longest-living populations. They include Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Ikaria, Greece; and Loma Linda, California. These five locations share a cluster of lifestyle choices that make them significantly healthier than other groups.
The blue zone lifestyle habits include:
1. Natural movement — For those that live in blue zones, being active doesn’t mean training for a 10K or going to fitness classes, it simply involves consistent movement, often in the form of work and daily tasks. And while the American lifestyle isn’t necessarily conducive to this, we can incorporate more natural movement with activities like walking, gardening, working in the yard, or tackling a home improvement project.
2. Knowing your purpose — The Nicoyans call life’s purpose the “plan de vida.” The Okinawans call it “ikigai.” Knowing why you’re waking up every morning makes individuals happier, healthier, and adds years to our lives. Maybe it’s a profession or a role you play in your family or community. The origin and nature of the purpose doesn’t matter, as long as you have one.
3. Downshifting — Stress is a normal part of life, but those in the blue zones incorporate intentional methods to downshift. Some of these include meditation, prayer, napping or taking an hour each afternoon to catch up
with a friend or neighbor. The goal is to find something to do daily that allows us to slow down and allow the mind and body to reset.
4. The 80% rule — Not only is what we eat important, but how much we eat is equally important. In general, people in blue zones tend to stop eating when they are 80% full instead of 100% full, resulting in the intake of fewer calories and less stress on bodily systems. They also eat their smallest meal in the late afternoon and do not eat again until the following morning, inducing a type of healthy fasting.
5. Plant slant — The folks in blue zone areas eat primarily a plant-based diet. Legumes seem to be the main focus followed by vegetables, fruit and whole grains. Animal protein is rarely consumed, with an emphasis on fish and poultry. If they do eat meat, it’s only 3 to 4 ounces.
6. Small wine consumption with food and fellowship — Consuming small amounts of organic red wine is common practice in many of the blue zone cultures. The trick is keeping the amount extremely low, focusing on red wine and enjoying it with others and food. Part of the benefit is the social aspect and camaraderie with family and friends. No one drinks alone and few drink in excess.
7. Believing in a higher power — Blue zones are typically associated with religion or spirituality which has been associated with a longer lifespan. This may be because of increased social support and reduced rates of depression. There is something powerful about believing in a higher power and knowing there is something beyond this realm.
8. Putting loved ones first — Having a close and constant connection to family is common in blue zones where grandparents often live with the family in their senior years and have a role and purpose in daily activities. Most people in these blue zones also commit to a life partner.
9. Finding a tribe — Who we spend our time with greatly influences our mental and physical health which in turn affects longevity. For example, when you’re with the ones you enjoy spending time with, your brain releases positive chemicals and hormones. When you’re around people who engage in positive and healthy behaviors, you are more likely to engage in similar behaviors. The opposite is true as well.
We’re only given one chance to enjoy life on this beautiful earth, so why not make the experience as expansive and joyful as possible? Notice how none of the blue zone regions have a daily habit of sitting still, eating processed foods, consuming massive amounts of media or being attached to devices. To truly live and breathe energy into each and every day, we must follow the triedand-true rules and habits of being fully human. As we move through the summer months, I encourage all of us to shift some of our behaviors to align more closely with those in the blue zones. There’s no doubt we’ll feel better if we do.
(Susanna Shetley is a writer, editor and digital media specialist. susanna.b@smokymountainnews.com.)
Save hummingbirds, clean feeders
To the Editor:
There has been a notable decrease in the number of birds coming to my feeder this year, and my neighbors report a similar decrease. This could be due, in part, to a fungal disease caused by unclean feeders.
Some hummingbirds are contracting a fungus at unclean feeders which causes their tongues to swell and results in their death.
This link gives more details about how to clean feeders. www.vox.com/down-toearth/416127/hummingbird-biodiversityfungal-infection-feeders.
Please help spread the word: if you want to put up a hummingbird feeder, please commit to cleaning it and replacing the nectar every two to three days.
Joanne Strop Waynesville
Budget bill is a disaster
To the Editor:
This budget bill is a disaster!!
It would:
• Make deep cuts to SS, SNAP, Medicaid and Medicare — No!
• Cripple the Judiciary by requiring expensive bonds to use their contempt powers. Contempt powers are necessary to rein in the president's corrupt powers — N0.
• Make tax cuts for already wealthy people and corporations permanent. A family with an income of $5 million would get a tax break of an eye-popping $300,000! Most of us will never earn that much in a lifetime!!!
Totally unfair — No way!
• Give tax cuts to the rich and would add trillions to the deficit. That is crazy! I thought the Republicans were deficit hawks — No way!
Caryl Brt Waynesville
Burning books creates problems
To the Editor:
Having read Gary Carden's piece on Ray Bradbury's “Fahrenheit 451,” I was immediately reminded of a quotation from the 19th-century German-Jewish poet and essayist, Heinrich Heine: “Where one burns books, one will ultimately burn people, too.”
Forewarned is forearmed.
David Dorondo Cullowhee
Susanna Shetley
Rock’’em, sock’’em
Live wrestling comes to The Orange Peel
“Superstars” that was mixed in with the Saturday morning cartoons. Taylor was utterly captivated by the spectacle.
“I watched it religiously and learned the history of wrestling by renting a new tape every time my parents took me to Blockbuster,” Taylor reminisced. “Around that time, Santa Claus brought me an ‘Ultimate Warrior’ wrestling buddy for Christmas. From that point on, all bets were off. Every time wrestling was on TV, my parents would move the furniture out of the way and I’d go insane.”
Now 40 years old, Taylor is at the helm of Classic City Wrestling, a completely fresh, innovative way to watch the sport, one where he has been able to combine his two biggest passions — wrestling and live music.
“I want the audience to walk away feeling like they experienced a unique piece of art,” Taylor said. “Part rock show, part wrestling, but a fully unique vibe and experience. Part of what art does is that it makes you feel good both music and wrestling influence each other.”
Thus, when someone wanders into a CCW showcase, what they’ll ultimately witness is professional wrestlers partaking in real matches in a real wrestling ring placed in the middle of a rock club, all while a live band plays in the background. To note, CCW will be making its Asheville debut on June 28 at The Orange Peel,
industry, most notable as the longtime tour manager for legendary Athens rock act DriveBy Truckers.
About 12 years ago, Taylor started hosting CCW viewing parties at the Flicker Theatre & Bar. At that time, it was just Monday night screenings of old pay-per-view wrestling match-
and townies looking for a fun, quirky party on a non-traditional party night.”
But, the screenings were short-lived, seeing as Taylor had to hit the road with DBT, who tour relentlessly. However, when the 2020 shutdown occurred and the live music industry was on pause, Taylor returned to the idea of CCW
and wondered how we could expand it.
“I have always fantasized about owning an independent pro wrestling company,” Taylor admits. “There were some fun pro wrestling promotions in the Athens area, but none that really reflect the vibe of the city of Athens. It needed to be a show that people who live the arts and culture would be excited about — there needed to be live music.”
Soon, Taylor got hold of Justin Legend, a wrestler and musician in Athens whom he met at the viewing parties. With extensive backgrounds in wrestling and the music industry, the duo combined forces and started working on the template for what would ultimately become what CCW is today — this seamless blend of wrestling and live music.
“As crazy as it sounded, [Justin], too, had similar visions for a promotion,” Taylor recalled. “We began brainstorming immediately, and a couple months after that we had our first show. The company has now had close to 50 shows and is a little over three years old.”
In a rather poignant setting, CCW played host earlier this year to the DBTs for a special promotion at Athens’ storied 40 Watt Club. It was a truly heartfelt moment for Taylor and
“There is no greater feeling than to create a scene,” Taylor said. “When it becomes a scene, it’s no longer yours, but something bigger than your creation. I’m constantly blown aware to see that this thing Justin and I created means so much to so many people.”
With the upcoming Asheville showcase on the horizon, Taylor is ready and roaring to bring the CCW whirlwind of sight and sound to the mountains of Western North Carolina. For him, it all circles back to that pure excitement felt as a kid for wrestling and music, all now morphed into this platform, more so intersection, of art and passion.
“I feel like wrestling is an art form just like music, visual art, food, novels, etcetera,” Taylor said. “Part of what art does is that it makes you feel.”
Want to go?
An evening of professional wrestling and live rock music, Classic City Wrestling will hit the mat (and the stage) at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at The Orange Peel in Asheville.
Rising local rock band Rhinestone Pickup Truck will provide the soundtrack for the evening. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Front row seating is $30 per person, with second row seating $25 and standing room $20. The event is all ages.
For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit theorangepeel.net.
This must be the place
BY GARRET K. WOODWARD
‘Roll on, to the North Star, I got the key to carry on’
The Universe. It never ceases to amaze me. This evening (last Monday be the time you read this), I felt kind of lonely. A lot of that feeling has to do with the last eight months or so of my life. Work burnout. The flood. The aftermath. The breakup. The aftermath. Turning 40. Starting therapy. Life, in general. And so on.
Coming into the impending summer, I’ve been thinking a lot about the age-old question, “Where to from here?” I’ve never questioned my path. I’m doing what I love for a job and live where I choose to live. But, sometimes, I find myself wondering just where I’m currently standing, and what do I see as I look around at the landscape surrounding?
And tonight sits especially heavy on my mind, since it is the three-year anniversary of the passing of a dear friend, someone who greatly impacted my life, and who I was lucky enough to say goodbye to in person at the hospital before she left this world. I was never the same after that day, in truth. It shook my existence, with the ripples still reverberating out.
I’m also thinking about my late cousin, Nate, who was like the older brother I never had, and the upcoming anniversary of his departure at the end of this month. I can’t believe it’s already been four years since I last saw him. And I ponder the difference between solitude and loneliness, and how each remains so wild to grasp and comprehend.
Thus, with everything of this nature floating around my mind, I went to get some groceries at the local store. It was raining out and the store was pretty much empty. Quiet strolls down aisles underneath bright fluorescent lighting. As I grabbed some items and headed down one aisle for no particular reason, I found myself at the magazine rack.
In the corner of my eye, I saw the latest issue of Smoky Mountain Living, a magazine I’ve been the music editor for since I first rolled into Western North Carolina back in 2012. I stopped and flipped through the issue with pride, and scrolled my article, my name in the masthead, too.
I thought about how psyched my younger self starting out in journalism would be to see my work on the rack, and how it still does mean so damn much. It was a small, yet important signal from somewhere in the ether that I must keep my head up, and keep pushing forward. The gratitude remains, and will forever be part of my old soul ethos.
The next morning, I awoke and readied myself to head to the newsroom to put out this week’s newspaper. But, not before grabbing some breakfast at the Main Street Dinner in downtown Waynesville. While reading my book and kind of daydreaming, I realized the date was June 10. It was exactly 20 years ago when I decided to become a writer.
June 10, 2005. It was a Friday. I was 20 years old. All by myself at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. The sweltering heat and humidity of East Tennessee in June. It was also my first solo road trip (Upstate New York to Southern Appalachia). Up until that point, I’d either gone on road trips with former girlfriends or simply with my family as a kid.
At the time, I had just completed my sophomore year of college at Quinnipiac University
in Connecticut, as well as my second year of running track and field for the school. Early morning, June 10. Laying in my tent, just before the unbearable sun and high temperature hit the festival camping area, I was reading Jack Kerouac’s seminal 1957 novel “On the Road” for the first of many, many times.
I had just finished Chapter 5 when I flipped back to the end of Chapter 1 and reread the last sentence: “I was a young writer and I wanted to take off. Somewhere along the line I knew there’d be girls, visions, everything; somewhere along the line the pearl would be handed to me.” I’d never felt this way about a book, let alone one particular sentence.
I put the book down for a moment and stared off into the distance outside my tent. I could hear laughter from the next campsite, a jam session occurring off in the distance somewhere. And then, it struck me. Like a bolt of lightning. A real deal epiphany. Clear as day. I said to myself, “I’m going to be writer.” I didn’t know the first thing about how to write or becoming a writer.
Heck, I didn’t even know how I’d even go about trying to make living doing so. But, I knew then and there that I wanted to travel across the country and around the world, having all kinds of wild and wondrous experiences, and writing about it, sharing it with the world in hopes of sparking a fire within others that Kerouac sparked within my heart and soul.
I remember the drive back to the northeast, where I stopped at my then-girlfriend’s
house in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. I told her about my epiphany and how I was going to put all of my energy and focus into writing. She goes, “But, you don’t know how to write.” “I’ll figure it out,” I replied with the same confidence, persistence and determination that resides within all these years and miles later.
The very next semester, I changed my major from broadcast journalism to print, all while I was doing semester abroad in rural Ireland. Oh, and between Bonnaroo and hopping onto the plane for Europe in late August, my relationship with the Poconos girl fell apart, as did other aspects of my young life. Things were in limbo, but I held steady.
No matter, I was heading to Ireland for four months of knowns and unknowns. The entire trajectory of my life shifted, or finally found its course. I prefer to see it as the latter. That trajectory took me from Connecticut to Eastern Idaho after college graduation, where I became a rookie reporter for the Teton Valley News in January 2008
Onward back to Upstate New York and trying to make ends meets as a freelancer, only to accept this position at The Smoky Mountain News in 2012. Onward to realizing my dream of writing for Rolling Stone in December 2018, where now I’ve become a contributing writer for the publication, with dozens and dozens of published articles, the assignments themselves taking me all over the country and into parts of Canada thus far.
And so, exactly 20 years later, the journey continues, my love for writing and wandering growing stronger and more curious each and every day. I don’t take any of this for granted, nor will I stop digging below the surface of the people, places and things that fascinate us all, inspiring us to take on the world and provoke the beautiful chaos of time and space, faces and places.
Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all.
HOT PICKS
1
Elizabeth and Quintin Ellison will share their poetry and photography book created with the late George Ellison, “Land of Blue Shadows: Mountain Life in Verse & View,” at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville.
2
Americana/folk singer-songwriter A. Lee Edwards will perform at 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, at the Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley.
3
Rising regional Americana/ bluegrass act Upstream Rebellion will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 19, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville.
4
“Concerts on the Creek” music series will present Mission Accomplished at 7 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva.
5 Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Ron Lee (Frank Sinatra/ Rat Pack tribute) at 7:15 p.m. Saturday, June 21.
The magazine rack at Ingles. Garret K. Woodward photo
On the street
Dancing in the streets
The “Mountain Street Dance” will be held from 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, June 27, in front of the historic courthouse in downtown Waynesville.
‘Thunder in the Smokies’
Swing, stomp, and spin along with our mountain community at Waynesville’s summer street dances, a cherished tradition brimming with Haywood hospitality. Dance your way into the over 100year history of families gathering to watch traditional dance teams and listen to live bluegrass. Participation encouraged. Free to attend. For more information, visit downtownwaynesville.com.
The annual “Thunder in the Smokies” summer motorcycle rally will be held June 27-29 at the Maggie Valley Fairgrounds.
The oldest and largest motorcycle rally in the Great Smoky Mountains, the weekend celebration will feature live music, dozens of vendors, motorcycle shows/games, prizes and much more.
For more information, a full schedule of events and/or to purchase tickets, visit thunderinthesmokies.com.
On the beat
• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host Doug & Lisa June 21 and Rick Yates June 28. All shows begin at 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / blueridgebeerhub.com.
ALSO:
• Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host “Karaoke Night” 9 p.m. Wednesdays, “Trivia” 7 p.m. Thursdays, “Open Jam” 10 p.m. Thursdays, DJ Burr June 20 and Trusty Hucksters Band June 28. All shows are located in The Gem downstairs taproom and begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.0350 / boojumbrewing.com.
• Bryson City Brewing (Bryson City) will host Electric Circus June 21. All shows begin at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0085 / brysoncitybrewing.com.
• Cataloochee Ranch (Maggie Valley) will host Marc & Anita Pruett (Americana/bluegrass) June 18 and A. Lee Edwards (Americana/indie-folk) June 25. All shows begin at 5 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For tickets and reservations, visit cataloocheeranch.com/ranch-events/live-music.
• Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Ron Lee (Frank Sinatra/Rat Pack tribute) 7:15 p.m. June 21. Dinner and live music is $70 per person (includes tax and gratuity). Reservations required. 828.452.6000 or classicwineseller.com.
• Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Orchard Sessions” with Tennessee Bluegrass Band (Americana/bluegrass) July 16. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Admission is
Stecoah Drive-About Tour
The annual “Stecoah Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour” will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 27-28 at featured studios in Bryson City, Stecoah and Robbinsville.
With their studios open to the public, the self-guided driving tour highlights artisans who have built a livelihood with their creative talents. Media include pottery, beeswax lanterns and pillar candles, original paintings/drawings, fiber, quilts, photography, honey, mead and more.
The tour includes: Wehrloom Honey & Meadery, Marie’s Lavender Farm, The Shed Gallery, Junk N’ Style, Stecoah Artisans Gallery, The Village Merchant, Doodad Mosaics & Glass, Sharla Kauffman Pottery and Gallery Zella. For more information, 828.479.3364 or stecoahvalleycenter.com.
A work from potter Sharla Kauffman. File photo
$50 per person, with discounts rates available for hotel guests and members. 866.526.8008 / oldedwardshospitality.com/orchard-sessions.
• First United Methodist Church (Franklin) will host the Mountain Voices Community Chorus “Celebrating the Decades” concert at 7 p.m. June 26. Free and open to the public. Donations accepted. 828.524.3644.
• Friday Night Live Concert Series (Highlands) will host Curtis Blackwell & Dixie Bluegrass Boys (Americana/bluegrass) June 20 and Spare Parts (Americana/bluegrass) June 27. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.
• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host “Jazz On The Level” 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Kevin Dolan & Paul Koptak June 18, J.R. Williams (singer-songwriter) June 20, Watkins (Americana) June 21, Jamie Hite (singersongwriter) 3 p.m. June 22, The Fustics June 27, Tricia Ann Band (rock/country) June 28 and Paul Edelman (singer-songwriter) 3 p.m. June 29. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 / froglevelbrewing.com.
• Frog Quarters (Franklin) will host live music from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, featuring Paul & Kay Garfinkel with Al Scortino (Americana/ folk) June 21. Free and open to the public. 828.369.8488 / littletennessee.org.
• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host “Night 4: The Memories II” 7 p.m. June 29. For tickets, click on caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee.
• High Country Wine & Provisions (Highlands) will host David Crisp (singer-songwriter) June 27. Both shows begin at 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.482.4502 / highcountrywineandprovisions.com.
• Highlander Mountain House (Highlands) will host “Blues & Brews” 6-9 p.m. Thursdays ($5 cover), Zorki (singer-songwriter) 1-3 p.m. Saturdays, “Bluegrass Brunch” 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sundays (free) and the “Salon Series” with Fancy Hagood (singer-songwriter) 8:30 p.m. June 27 (tickets are $39.19 per person, tax included). 828.526.2590 / highlandermountainhouse.com.
• Hudson Library (Scaly Mountain) will host “Books & Bluegrass” from 6-9 p.m. June 19. Live music by the Foxfire Boys. Tickets are $75 per person, which includes food, drinks, music and fellowship. All proceeds go to needed improvements at the library. 828.526.3031 / fontanalib.org/highlands.
• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will host “Monday Night Trivia” every week, “Open Mic with Phil” on Wednesdays and Shane Davis (singer-songwriter) June 21. All shows and events begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.586.9678/ innovation-brewing.com.
• John C. Campbell Folk School (Brasstown) will host a “Community Jam” 7 p.m. Thursdays (at the nearby Crown Restaurant) and semi-regular live music throughout the week on its campus. folkschool.org.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Jamie Saylor (Americana) June 20, Roscoe’s Road
Show (Americana/Cajun) June 21 and Grizzly Mammoth (rock/jam) June 28. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host “Music Bingo” 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Grizzly Mammoth (rock/jam) June 20 and Scott Stambaugh (Americana) June 27. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• Macon County Public Library (Franklin) will host The Vagabonds (Americana) at 2 p.m. the first and third Monday and a “Song Circle” open jam from 3-6 p.m. the first Tuesday each month. Free and open to the public. 828.524.3600 or fontanalib.org/franklin.
• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host a “Community Jam” from 6-7:30 p.m. each first and third Thursday of the month and Liz Petty (Americana/folk) 7 p.m. June 26. Free and open to the public. 828.488.3030 / fontanalib.org/brysoncity.
• Meadowlark Motel (Maggie Valley) will host a “Bluegrass Jam” 5-7 p.m. Sundays, Ramblin’ Ricky Tatte (Americana/folk) June 19, Len Graham (Americana) June 21, Amos Jackson (soul/funk) June 26 and Stomper Kitty (Americana/rock) June 28. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.926.1717 / meadowlarkmotel.com.
• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host “Open Mic Night” with Frank Lee every Thursday, Mountain Gypsy (Americana) June 20,
Street dances return to Waynesville June 27. File photo
On the beat
Cataloochee Ranch welcomes Edwards
Americana/folk singer-songwriter A. Lee Edwards will perform at 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, at the Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley.
Edwards has been a singer-songwriter for over 30 years. His music holds an honesty and an authenticity, not built on outward style, but inner substance. He is joined by a backing band of some of the top players in the region, all of which with vocal harmonies reminiscent of The Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers, Buck Owens and Don Rich. For tickets and reservations, visit cataloocheeranch.com/ranch-events/live-music.
Haywood Community Band ‘American Salute’
With a theme of “American Salute,” the next Haywood Community Band concert will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 29, outside of the Stuart Auditorium at Lake Junaluska.
In an effort to increase its audience, the HCB is doing a “Save a Seat” initiative, where patrons are asked to bring a friend and enjoy the music.
All shows are free and open to the public. The HCB is a beloved nonprofit organization, one where donations collected at the concerts go to support band camp and college scholarships for young Haywood County musicians.
For more information and/or a full schedule of upcoming HCB performances, please visit haywoodcommunityband.com.
Bluegrass comes to Folkmoot
Rising regional Americana/bluegrass act Upstream Rebellion will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 19, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville.
Hailing from the depths of Western North Carolina, Upstream Rebellion is rooted in the intricate musical traditions of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky mountain ranges. The ensemble showcases a captivating blend of bluegrass standards and original numbers.
General admission is $25 per person, with $15 and $5 “pay what you can” options available. Donations are welcome. Doors open at 6 p.m. The 6 Pigs BBQ food truck will also be onsite.
For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit folkmoot.org. To learn
more about Upstream Rebellion, you can search the band’s name on Facebook and “Upstream.Rebellion” on Instagram.
‘Concerts on the Creek’
The Town of Sylva, Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the 16th season of the annual “Concerts on the Creek” music series.
Mission Accomplished will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva.
“Concerts on the Creek” are held every Friday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Everyone is encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. These events are free, with donations encouraged. Dogs must be on a leash. No smoking, vaping, coolers or tents are allowed. Bring a chair or blanket. There will be food trucks on select nights.
For more information, call the chamber at 828.586.2155, visit mountainlovers.com/concerts-on-the-creek or go to the “Concerts on the Creek” Facebook page.
Rock rolls into Whiteside Brewing
Regional rock/jam group Arnold Hill will perform at 6 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Whiteside Brewing in Cashiers.
Formed in 2011, the Jackson County band is named after a road in Sylva where the musicians lived and practiced. In method, Arnold Hill adheres to the playful nature and creative possibilities that reside in the rock quartet.
The show is free and open to the public. 828.743.6000 or whitesidebrewing.com.
Jame Hite (singer-songwriter) June 21, Bridget Gossett (singer-songwriter) 5 p.m. June 22, Bird In Hand (Americana/folk) 6 p.m. June 28 and Mountain Gypsy (Americana) 5 p.m. June 29. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 / mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.
• Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala Gorge) will host Ryan B. Jazz Trio 5 p.m. June 20, Brown Mountain Lightning Bugs 3 p.m. June 21, Beer & Loathing 5 p.m. June 21 and Blue (blues) 2 p.m. June 22. Free and open to the public. 828.785.5082 / noc.com.
• Old Edwards Inn (Highlands) will host live music in the Hummingbird Lounge at 5:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Free and open to the public. 866.526.8008 / oldedwardshospitality.com.
• Otto Community Center (Otto) will host James Thompson (Americana) 5 p.m. June 20. Bring a beverage and snack of your choice. Free and open to the public. 770.335.0967 / go2ottonc.com.
• Peacock Performing Arts Center (Hayesville) will host “Songwriters Showcase 54” 7:30 p.m. June 28. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, 828.389.ARTS / thepeacocknc.org.
• Pickin’ On The Square (Franklin) will host Tugalo Holler (bluegrass) June 28. All shows begin at 6 p.m. at the Gazebo in downtown. Free and open to the public. franklinnc.com/pickin-on-the-square.html.
• Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host “Karaoke” 7 p.m. Wednesdays, “Trivia Night” 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, “Open Mic” 6:30 p.m. Fridays, Ethan & Chris (singersongwriter) June 20, Michael Kitchens (singer-songwriter) June 21 and Ernest Collins (singer-songwriter) June 28. Free and open to the public. 828.369.6796 / facebook.com/rathskellercoffeebarandpub.
• Salty Dog’s Seafood & Grill (Maggie Valley) will host “Karaoke with Russell” every Monday, Susie Copeland (singer-songwriter) June 20 and Rene Russell (singersongwriter) June 27. All shows begin at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.926.9105 / facebook.com/saltydogs2005.
• Saturdays On Pine Concert Series (Highlands) will host Spalding McIntosh & The Lionhearts June 21. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.
• Scotsman (Waynesville) will host Rene Russell (Americana) June 19, TrancEnd (rock/pop) 9 p.m. June 21 Kid Billy (indie/folk) June 27, Celtic Road Jam (Celtic/world) 4 p.m. June 27 and Gavin Byrd (Americana/rock) June 27. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 / scotsmanpublic.com.
• Slanted Window Tasting Station (Franklin) will host Seth & Sara (Americana) 6 p.m. June 20. 828.276.9463 / slantedwindow.com.
• Stecoah Valley Center (Robbinsville) will host a Community Jam 5:30-7:30 p.m. every third Thursday of the month (free) and Jeff Little Trio (Americana) 7:30 p.m. June 28 (adults $25, kids $10). 828.479.3364 / stecoahvalleycenter.com.
• Trailborn (Highlands) will host its “Carolina Concert Series” with Melissa McKinney (Americana/soul) June 19 and Juan (indie/soul) June 26. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.482.1581 or trailborn.com/highlands.
• Valley Cigar & Wine Co. (Waynesville) will host Seth & Sara (Americana) 2 p.m. June 22, Amos Jackson (soul/funk) 6 p.m. June 27 and Watkins (Americana/folk) 2 p.m. June 29. Free and open to the public. 828.944.0686 / valleycigarandwineco.com.
• Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host “Karaoke with Jason” Tuesdays, “Tom’s Trivia Night” 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Second Chance 6 p.m. June 20, Mile High (classic rock/country gold) 4 p.m. June 22, Flash Bang Mafia 6 p.m. June 27 and Tricia Ann Band (rock/country) 4 p.m. June 29. All shows and events begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.926.7440 / valley-tavern.com.
• Vineyard At High Holly (Scaly Mountain) will host Jordan Denton (singer-songwriter) June 22 and Rail Town (Americana) June 29. All shows begin at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.482.5573 / thevineyardathighholly.com.
• Western Carolina Brew & Wine (Highlands) will host live music 4-6 p.m. Saturdays with R.A. Nightingale (singer-songwriter) June 20, “Music Bingo” 6-8 p.m. Saturdays and Breeze Cable (singer-songwriter) 2 p.m. June 28. 828.342.6707 / wcbrewandwine.com.
• Whiteside Brewing (Cashiers) will host Arnold Hill (rock/jam) June 20, Woolybooger (blues/folk) June 21, Seth & Sara (Americana) June 27 and Spare Parts (Americana/bluegrass) June 28. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.743.6000 / whitesidebrewing.com.
• Yonder Community Market (Franklin) will host “Country Thursdays” (Americana/country) 6 p.m. Thursdays and Alexa Rose & Josh Oliver (Americana/folk) 4 p.m. June 29. Family/dog friendly. 828.200.2169 / eatrealfoodinc.com.
• Find more at smokymountainnews.com/arts
A. Lee Edwards will play Maggie Valley June 25. File photo
On the stage HART presents ‘Ripcord’
ALSO:
A special stage production of “Ripcord” will be held at 7:30 p.m. June 20-21, 27-28, July 4-5, 10-12 and 2 p.m. June 22, 29, July 6 and 13 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.
The show is a sharp-witted comedy about two senior roommates whose escalating prank war reveals deeper truths about friendship, loss and resilience.
Tickets start at $19 per person, with other seating options available. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit harttheatre.org or call the box office at 828.456.6322.
‘Ripcord’ will run at HART on select dates. Donated photo
• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host comedy legend Jeff Foxworthy at 9 p.m. Friday, June 27. For tickets, click on caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee.
• Highlands Performing Arts Center (Highlands) will host semi-regular stage productions on the weekends. mountaintheatre.com / 828.526.9047.
• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host Todd Oliver (comedy) at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 20, and “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” 7 p.m. June 27-28. smokymountainarts.com / 866.273.4615.
• Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host a production of “Treasure Island” at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 28. 828.369.4080 / coweeschool.org/music.
• Peacock Performing Arts Center (Hayesville) will host semi-regular stage productions on the weekends. thepeacocknc.org / 828.389.ARTS.
‘An Appalachian Evening’
continue with a performance by The Jeff Little Trio at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, in Lynn L. Shields Auditorium at the Stecoah Valley Center in Robbinsville.
The annual summer concert series offers an ever-changing schedule of bluegrass, folk and old-time mountain music by award-winning artists — quality entertainment for the entire family.
Rich in cultural heritage, the series continues to be a favorite with locals and visitors alike. The concert will be held in the airconditioned Lynn L. Shields Auditorium. The piano rarely plays a prominent part
His distinctive two-handed style, much influenced by the mountain flat-picked guitar tradition, is breathtaking in its speed, precision and clarity. In 2014, Little was inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for students grade K-12. Dinner will also be available for purchase in the Schoolhouse Cafe starting at 6 p.m.
For more information and/or to purchase tickets, call 828.479.3364 or visit stecoahvalleycenter.com.
Jeff Little Trio. File photo
On the wall Haywood Arts to showcase ‘Form’
newest themed exhibit on display at the Haywood Handmade Gallery, located at the HCAC in downtown Waynesville.
This engaging show features work from local artist members and explores the concept of form — how artists use shape, volume and physical presence to express ideas across a variety of mediums.
From sculpture and ceramics to paint-
Cherokee pottery exhibition
A special showcase, “Didanisisgi Gadagwatli: A Showcase of Pottery from the Mud Dauber Community Workshop,” is now on display at the Museum of the Cherokee People in Cherokee. On view through May 2026, the exhibition features works by students of Tara McCoy (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) handcrafted during an intensive three-month workshop. Renowned for her pottery, McCoy began making crafts at 12 years old. She honed her skills while taking arts-and-crafts classes with Alyne Stamper (EBCI) and has won numerous awards at the Cherokee Fall Festival and at Southwestern Association of Indian Arts (SWAIA) Santa Fe Indian Market.
Mountain Artisans showcase
Today, she shares her knowledge with others. Designed to increase and uplift pottery making among members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, McCoy’s workshop uses a hands-on approach, empowering first-time potters to bring their own personal style to ancestral techniques
For more information, visit motcp.org.
pret structure, depth and volume. The exhibit invites viewers to consider the many ways form shapes their experience of art, both literally and emotionally. It is free and open to the public.
For more information about the showcase and/or other events at the HCAC, visit haywoodarts.org.
The 36th annual Mountain Artisans “Summertime“ Arts & Crafts Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 2728 in the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.
Dozens of local artisans will be onsite. The featured artist will be Jan Kleinrath. Admission is $5 for adults with children under 12 free. Concessions available and free convenient parking.
For more information, visit mountainartisans.net.
A work by Laura Walkingstick. File photo
• WNC Paint Events will host painting sessions throughout the region on select dates. For more information and/or to sign up, visit wncpaint.events.
• “Farmers & Artisans Market” will be every Friday morning (May-October) at 117 Island St. in Bryson City. Stop by the old barn along the river for local, homegrown produce, as well as baked goods, jellies/preserves, authentic crafts and more. Picnic tables onsite. There will also be live music. Leashed pets are welcome. This is an outdoor event. 828.488.7857.
• CRE828 (Waynesville) will offer a selection of art classes and workshops at its studio located at 1283 Asheville Road. Workshops will include art journaling, watercoloring, mixed media, acrylic painting and more. 828.283.0523 / cre828.com.
• Gallery Zella (Bryson City) will be hosting an array of artist receptions, exhibits and showcases. 517.881.0959 / galleryzella.com.
• Waynesville Photography Club meets at 7 p.m. every third Monday each month on the second floor of the Haywood Regional Health & Fitness
Center in Clyde. The club is a nonprofit organization that exists for the enjoyment of photography and the improvement of one’s skills. The club welcomes photographers of all skill levels to share ideas and images at the monthly meetings. waynesvillephotoclub@charter.net.
• Haywood County Arts Council (Waynesville) will offer a wide range of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. 828.452.0593 / haywoodarts.org.
• Jackson County Green Energy Park (Dillsboro) will be offering a slew of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. 828.631.0271 / jcgep.org.
• Southwestern Community College Swain Arts Center (Bryson City) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. 828.339.4000 / southwesterncc.edu/scc-locations/swain-center.
• Dogwood Crafters in Dillsboro will offer a selection of upcoming art classes and workshops. 828.586.2248 / dogwoodcrafters.com.
• Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host semi-regular arts and crafts workshops. 828.369.4080 / coweeschool.org.
Donated photo
A work by Janice Alexander.
Donated photo
Mark Helprin, a great American novelist
Friday, May 30, was a banner day I’ll long remember.
A soft Carolina-blue sky topped the Virginia hills and fields as I drove to novelist Mark Helprin’s farm, Windrow, in the countryside north of Charlottesville. Helprin and his wife Lisa greeted me at the front door, and for the rest of my four-hour visit they were the best of hosts, conversing with me in their living room for an hour and then serving up a delicious lunch. Afterwards, Helprin and I sat in the enormous, nearly two-story high room which serves as his library, office, and workplace, where I had the privilege of interviewing him about his life and work.
One wall of that room deserves special mention. Here were bookshelves about 12feet high, with a rolling ladder in place allowing access to his entire collection of 7,000 volumes. Among these many books are a large number of Helprin’s own works, his novels, short story collections, and children’s books, including those translated into more than 20 languages.
During our conversations, Helprin spun out a tapestry of recollections from his past: his undergraduate days at Harvard, the odd jobs and wanderlust of his 20s, the demands of basic training in the Israeli army, his studies of foreign and military affairs, involvement in D.C. politics, and more. He had advice for young writers, stressed the importance of family and children — he and Lisa have two daughters, both now grown — spoke lyrically of his deep love for America, and shared half-a-dozen other brief commentaries on culture.
In discussing the nuts-and-bolts side of his writing, Helprin revealed that he writes the first drafts of his fiction by hand, then edits them, again by hand, seven and eight times more before they ever make it to a keyboard and screen. These books, several of them bestsellers, have won awards and in the eyes of some admirers, including me, rank Helprin as a major literary figure of our time.
Here are short takes on three of his novels which are my personal favorites.
“Freddy and Fredericka” recasts the story of Diana and Prince Charles. In Helprin’s comedy, this quarreling, spoiled couple are parachuted into New Jersey, sent by the Merlin of Arthurian fame on a mission to
bring America back into the British Commonwealth. Through a series of humorous misadventures, the royals learn the value of hard work, have their character shaped and polished by suffering, and fall deeply in love with each other. Especially moving for me, in large part because of the contrast to the earlier madcap comedic scenes, are Freddy’s ruminations on the spirit of
pointment in love.
And finally, there is “A Soldier of the Great War,” which is not only my favorite Helprin novel, but one of my all-time most beloved works of fiction. Here we follow Alessandro Giuliani from the days of his privileged boyhood and early youth into the horrors of the First World War, its aftermath, and then into old age. Enhanced by the best of the author’s lyrical prose, this novel has it all: war, love, family, politics, philosophy, aesthetics, art. A thread running throughout the book is Alessandro’s discussions of life with a young worker, Nicolo Sambuca, who prompts Alessandro to tell him of his life and who acts as a foil for some humor.
America near the end of the novel and the passages relating the death of his mother, the queen.
“The Oceans and the Stars,” Helprin’s most recent novel, tells the story of Navy captain Stephen Rensselaer, who after angering the president of the United States in a disagreement over American shipbuilding, is assigned to the Athena, a patrol coastal boat several grades below what he deserves. Subtitled “A Sea Story, a War Story, a Love Story,” this fine book delivers on all three fronts. Helprin brings his knowledge of the military to bear on such details as the Athena’s armaments while at the same time depicting the beauty of the ocean, takes us to war both on the sea and on the land, and gives us a sweet and moving story of the love affair between Rensselaer and Katy Farrar, an attorney who, like him, has faced disap-
Book honors George Ellison
First recommended to me by a priest, “A Soldier of the Great War” is a a story particularly suited to young men. Over the years, I’ve given away eight to 10 copies to my sons, my son-in-law, two friends, and two or three students. Only one, a friend, disliked the book, though he was older and impatient with Helprin’s rich prose. For me, this book was the gift that keeps on giving, a treasure trove to which I return several times a year, reading here and there, and always taking away something valuable.
At one point in our conversation, I asked Helprin if any books had inspired him to became a writer. It wasn’t any particular book, he said, but the beauty of English language found in writers like Shakespeare that first fired up his ambitions.
“It was the language itself, and in making sentences and paragraphs that from a very early age, I wanted to tell stories that were edifying and touched upon the religious, you know, that had a deeper meaning than just a story. I wanted to make beautiful sentences and paragraphs. That's craft. If it's good enough craft, it becomes art. And so, you enjoy practicing the craft, and you do so with as much intensity as you can marshal, and if you're lucky, the craft becomes art.”
Mark Helprin brought craft and intensity to his writing, and forged his works of art. (Jeff Minick reviews books and has written four of his own: two novels, “Amanda Bell” and “Dust On Their Wings,” and two works of nonfiction, “Learning As I Go” and “Movies Make the Man.” minick0301@gmail.com.)
Elizabeth and Quintin Ellison will share their poetry and photography book created with the late George Ellison, “Land of Blue Shadows: Mountain Life in Verse & View,” at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville. This final posthumous publication from beloved regional poet, naturalist and writer George Ellison presents poetry from an icon of the Smokies, alongside gorgeous paintings and photography from Elizabeth and Quintin. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 828.456.6000 or visit blueridgebooksnc.com.
Writer Jeff Minick
Bryson City painter reflects on a lifetime of art inspired by nature
Word from the Smokies
BY HOLLY KAYS | S PECIAL TO SMN
lizabeth Ellison was dealing almost strictly in watercolors when a logistical challenge transformed her painting career. It was 2013, and she was planning a one-person exhibition at the NC Arboretum in Asheville that would require to her to produce a plethora of new paintings in time for the 2017 show.
“I decided, no way am I going to do 80 new watercolors and frame them and transport them,” Elizabeth said. Works in oil and acrylic don’t need frames, and the finished canvas is light as a feather compared to the heft of a framed watercolor. Elizabeth decided to switch mediums for the upcoming exhibition, and the change stuck. The canvases that now fill her Bryson City gallery burst with montages of color and texture that invite the viewer to step back and experience the unique quality of light, perspective or turn of the season that first inspired the artist.
Elizabeth can’t remember a time when she wasn’t an artist
— nor can she remember a time when the outdoors didn’t inspire her art. “I started drawing as soon as I could hold a pencil,” she said, surrounded by years’ worth of oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings filling the Main Street gallery that’s been her professional home since 1984. “That’s a long time.”
Farmland and woods framed Elizabeth’s world in the 1940s and ’50s as she was growing up in Caswell County, part of North Carolina’s Piedmont region. Elizabeth and her nine siblings grew up “simply” on a 125-acre farm, expected to work hard but also given space to roam, and to express their ideas and opinions. Elizabeth used this freedom to lose herself in the outdoors — and then, to translate the emotion of those moments into images on paper.
“I just wanted some way to be able to put down how I felt about being in the woods,” she said, “and I can still remember that. And so, out there on the farm, it was the perfect place for me.”
After high school, Elizabeth enrolled in the associate of arts program at Averett College — now Averett University — 20 miles away and just over the state line in Danville, Virginia. That’s where she met George Ellison, a Danville native and high school football hero who was then enrolled, on a football scholarship, at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. In addition to becoming Elizabeth’s husband, co-creator, and best friend, George, who died in February 2023, would go on to cement a reputation as an unparalleled naturalist, historian and writer of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Elizabeth finished the two-year program at Averett, and she and George married while he was still an undergraduate. They moved around a lot during those early years. George finished college at UNC, and then the couple moved to Richmond, Virginia, where Elizabeth enrolled in fine art history courses at Richmond Professional Institute, now called Virginia Commonwealth University. From there, they went to Columbia, South Carolina, for George’s graduate school program at the University of South Carolina. Elizabeth took painting and drawing classes, but she never earned a bachelor’s degree.
“When I started taking painting classes, I started selling, and I really didn’t want anybody to tell me how to do things,” she said. “I wanted to do it my own way.”
She and George were alike in that respect. They both knew what they loved to do, and they wanted to do it on their own terms. It was this drive that brought them to the Great Smoky Mountains in 1973 following three years in Starkville, Mississippi, where George taught graduate courses at Mississippi State University and Elizabeth studied drawing.
The Ellisons visited Western North Carolina for the first time on a trip connected to George’s research on a publication about Horace Kephart, a pivotal figure in the park’s creation. Decades later, he would co-author “Back of Beyond: A Horace Kephart Biography,” the first definitive biography on the man. Wandering through the park’s North Carolina side, George and Elizabeth found themselves at the boundary line, gazing into a remote cove bisected by a bubbling stream — Lands Creek. That trip proved to be a turning point in their lives, inspiring George to leave academia and focus on other forms of writing in the mountain region he was falling in love with.
Three years after moving to Swain County, the couple struck an agreement to rent the property at lower Lands Creek, moving into a small cabin that Elizabeth describes as “just a shack.” It was a primitive lifestyle — the Ellisons didn’t install electricity until well into the 1990s. They also didn’t have any homesteading skills to speak of, at least not at first.
“I’m sure the people in the county were amazed that we actually made it,” said Elizabeth, recalling how in those early years they never seemed to have enough firewood to heat with. “Because what we chose to do is what most of them wanted not to do.”
But Elizabeth found satisfaction in the primitive life — and still does.
“It would have been easy for us to go someplace and gotten jobs and all, but I just like being part of having lived my life, not just ridden through it,” she said.
The Ellisons found their calling on Lands Creek, deriving a special inspiration that they protected by purchasing the property in 1996 and placing it under a conservation easement in 2022. George carved out a name for himself as a leading voice in interpreting the region’s natural and cultural history, while Elizabeth launched a career of her own as a painter. Decades later, she still finds something magical in the way new artwork is born.
“It’s just pretty amazing to me that you can have a blank canvas, and all of a sudden you have a painting, maybe of a place that means a lot to you, but that also means a lot to a lot of people,” she said.
Elizabeth describes herself as a fast painter, able F
Elizabeth with the late George Ellison outside their home at lower Lands Creek. They placed the property under a conservation easement in 2022. Quintin Ellison photo
to complete an oil in three or four days — excluding drying time — whereas others using that medium may take years to finish a single work. She doesn’t paint every eyelash or blade of grass, a lean style that allows her to glide quickly across the canvas. But it’s the decades spent cultivating her artist’s eye and instinctive use of paint and color that allows her to do it at all.
“How long did it take me to paint this painting or that painting?” she asked. “It took me 50 or 60 years, because if I had to think about every stroke, and if I hadn’t put so much information into my memory bank and developed my hand-eye coordination, I couldn’t do it.”
For most of their careers, the gallery above Clampitt’s Hardware served both as Elizabeth’s studio and George’s office. Though their art often appeared
health, Elizabeth’s art career had to take a backseat. Caring for her husband, her “best friend,” became the top priority. Now she’s back in the studio, rediscovering the joy that comes from creating. Though her studio is well-stocked with unsold paintings from the years marked by George’s illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, often she can still be found there, brushing color on canvas.
‘Where Rivers Flow’ celebrates the mountain landscape of Western North Carolina that has inspired so much of Elizabeth Ellison’s work. Painting by
“I’m having a good time,” she said, “like a little kid playing.”
Elizabeth’s artwork appears in the recently published Arcadia Publishing title Land of Blue Shadows: Mountain Life in Verse and View, alongside previously unpublished poetry by George Ellison and photography by their daughter Quintin Ellison. To visit her Bryson City gallery, call or text 828.788.1541.
This story was originally published in the fall 2024 issue of Smokies Life Journal, a twiceyearly magazine that is
Elizabeth Ellison has always derived joy from depicting the natural world through art, and she continues to do so daily in her Bryson City studio. Quintin
together, Elizabeth’s paintings of wildlife and wild places accompanying George’s books and newspaper columns, the parallel movement of their careers should not be confused with a tandem partnership, Elizabeth said.
“We just supported each other,” she said. “I never told him what to do or asked him to do things, and he never told me. We were just artists in our own right.”
When Parkinson’s disease caused a serious decline in George’s
the primary benefit of joining Smokies Life. To read more stories like this while supporting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit SmokiesLife.org/Membership and become a Park Keeper.
(Holly Kays is the lead writer for the 29,000-member Smokies Life, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the scientific, historical, and interpretive activities of Great Smoky Mountains National Park by providing educational products and services such as this column. Reach her at hollyk@smokieslife.org.)
Ellison photo
Elizabeth Ellison
The Joyful Botanist
BY ADAM B IGELOW
World, lose strife
For the past few years, whenever I encounter the whorled loosestrife growing along a trail or roadside I have been saying its name out loud, and slowly. Like a prayer: “World, lose strife.” Or so it sounds to my ears when said aloud. “World, lose strife.” And this world
Whorled loosestrife and other members of the Lysimachia genus are pollinated by specialist bees called loosestrife bees (Macropis spp.) These native bees are solitary, non-boring bees. This means that they do not live in hives or large colonies, and they do not drill or dig into wood to make their nests. Instead, they dig their nests into the ground and raise their young there. As I
Puzzles can be found on page 30
when three or more leaves emerge from the stem at the same location, called a node. This is in contrast to alternate leaf arrangement, where only one leaf grows per node and then the leaves alternate up and down the stem, or opposite leaf arrangement, which is when two leaves emerge from the stem at the same node. The whorled loosestrife usually has four leaves at every node, which is where it gets the “quadrifolia” part in its scientific name, Lysimachia quadrifolia. Quad means four, and folia means leaf. Whorled loosestrife grows in full sun and part shade under deciduous trees. And when it is happy, it can grow in relatively large patches in the woods. They make a great addition to your shade garden, or planted along a path or trail, or in a mixed bed of native wildflowers. They are a perennial plant that can grow up to three feet tall, returning each year from their rhizome roots.
The flowers are small and yellow, sometimes with reddish streaks along the petals and edges of the petals. Each of the five yellow petals are red at their base, which forms the overall shape of a star with a red ring in the center. The flower stalk emerges from the stem where the leaves attach, which is known as the axil. Each flower lays on top of a single leaf in the four-leaved whorl. It is as if the leaf is providing support for the flowers to bloom on, and possibly a landing pad for pollinating insects as well.
than honeybees, which are not native and are raised as agricultural products. To help them, not only can you plant and encourage whorled loosestrife around your property, but you can also leave some bare soil areas in and around your gardens to attract native ground nesting bees.
The genus name of Lysimachia comes from Lysimachus, who was king of Macedonia in ancient Greece. It is said that King Lysimachus hung a sprig of loosestrife between two oxen who were fighting each other while yoked and pulling a cart. The plant seems to have calmed the two beasts, causing them to lose their strife and hence giving the plant the common name of loosestrife, and the genus name of Lysimachia.
Perhaps that is what is needed in our modern world of strife and of two large metaphorical beasts fighting while yoked together as they are supposed to be moving us along our path. We could hang a clump of loosestrife at state and national halls of government, just in the center of the aisle. Or, better yet, perhaps we can plant loosestrife flowers at all of our public and municipal buildings and grounds. And maybe, just maybe, this world could lose a little strife.
(The Joyful Botanist leads weekly wildflower walks most Fridays and offers consultations and private group tours through Bigelow’s Botanical Excursions. bigelownc@gmail.com.)
The whorled loosestrife grows in full sun and partial shade under deciduous trees. Adam Bigelow photo
Haywood Waterways hosts fishing tournament
The nonprofit Haywood Waterways Association will host its second annual fishing tournament on the West Fork of the Pigeon River.
There are categories for both adults and youth 12 and under. Adults can participate in teams of one to four individuals. Registration fee is $200 per team. Fly and conventional rods are both OK.
First place prize is $1,000; second place prize is $500. Third place earns a $25 gift card. The winner of the youth division will win a $50 gift card.
Tournament will run from 8 a.m. to noon July 26.
Register at secure.qgiv.com/for/fishingtournament/event/fishhaywood.
The tournament will be held on the West Fork of the Pigeon River. Donated photo
Join Franklin Bird club for walks
The Franklin Bird Club leads walks along the Greenway on Wednesday mornings at 8 a.m. through September. Walks start at alternating locations: Macon County Public Library, Big Bear Park and Salali Lane.
The public is welcome. All walks are weather dependent. Additional information, including directions to each location and a bird club check list can be found at littletennessee.org/franklin-birdclub
Schedule for upcoming walks:
• June 25, meet at Big Bear parking lot
• July 2, meet at Saladi Lane parking lot
• July 9, meet at the Macon County Public Library parking lot
Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation awarded $5 million grant for regional tourism
The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has secured a three-year, $5.13 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to support regional strategies to advance cultural and recreational tourism. The grant activities will benefit dozens of Appalachian gateway communities along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina that host millions of visitors each year.
The ARC grant and matching funds will help implement strategies outlined in the Blue Ridge Rising Action Plan, created with the input of hundreds of community leaders in the counties that neighbor the national park. Blue Ridge Rising marks the first time in the national park’s history that these counties are working together to implement travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation strategies that will have wide-ranging benefits throughout the Parkway corridor. The initiative earned the Public Lands Alliance’s 2025 Outstanding Public Engagement Award.
“After Hurricane Helene, wildfires, an ice storm, and other recent challenges, our local communities need this ARC grant now more than ever,” said Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. “We look forward to putting these dollars to work quickly to enhance Parkway-related tourism and local economies.”
This grant was made under the Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE), which is an ARC initiative that aims to drive large-scale, regional transformation through multistatecollaborative projects across Appalachia.
Paddleboard at Wolf Lake
Jackson County recreation is hosting a stand-up paddleboarding event on Wolf Lake. Beginners and seasoned paddlers alike are welcome to enjoy the adventure, which will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 20.
All equipment will be provided, and expert guides will be present to help out every step of the way.
Cost is $20. Register at jcprd.recdesk.com/community/program.
For questions, contact Trevor Brown at 828.293.3053 or trevorbrown@jacksonnc.org.
Market PLACE WNC
MarketPlace information:
The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 copies across 500 locations in Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties, including the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. Visit www.wncmarketplace.com to place your ad!
Rates:
• $15 — Classified ads that are 25 words, 25¢ per word after.
• Free — Lost or found pet ads.
• $6 — Residential yard sale ads.*
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• $375 — Statewide classifieds run in 170 participating newspapers with 1.1+ million circulation. (Limit 25 words or less)
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Legals
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S AMENDED NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY
THIS ACTION BROUGHT PURSUANT TO THE POWER AND AUTHORITY contained within that certain Deed of Trust executed and delivered by Melvin E. Bridges dated September 4, 2015 and recorded on September 10, 2015 in Book 892 at Page 1919 of Deeds of Haywood County, North Carolina. As a result of a default in the obligations contained within the Promissory Note and Deed of Trust and the failure to carry out and perform the stipulations and agreements contained therein, the holder of the indebtedness secured by said Deed of Trust made demand to have the default cured, which was not met. Therefore, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will place for sale that parcel of land, including improvements thereon, situated, lying and being in the City of
Waynesville, County of Haywood, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly described in the heretofore referenced Deed of Trust. Said sale will be a public auction, to the highest bidder for cash, at the usual place of sale at the Haywood County Courthouse, Waynesville, North Carolina, on July 3, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Property Address: 30 Ray Street, Waynesville, NC 28786
Tax Parcel ID: 8616-104443
Present Record Owners: Melvin E. Bridges
The terms of the sale are that the real property hereinbefore described will be sold for cash to the highest bidder. A deposit
amount of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars
greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of at the time of the sale. The successful bidder will be required to pay revenue stamps on the Trustee’s Deed, any Land Transfer Tax, and costs for recording the Trustee’s Deed.
The real property hereinabove described is being offered for sale “ AS IS, WHERE IS ” and will be sold subject to all superior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, and other encumbrances. Other conditions will be announced at the sale. The sale will be held open bids, as by law required. until there have been ten with no upset bids having
If for any reason the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property, or if the sale is set aside, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the bid deposit. Furthermore, if the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may declare the sale to be void and return the bid deposit. In either event, the purchaser will have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Trustee.
An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.
Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice
days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental
agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.
Posted:
Witness:
Assistant/Deputy Clerk of Superior Court
Albertelli Law Partners
North Carolina, P.A., Substitute Trustee
By: /s/Franklin L. Greene
Albertelli Law Partners
North Carolina, P.A.
Franklin L. Greene, Esq. #37896
205 Regency Executive Park Drive, Suite 100 Charlotte, NC 28217
Tel: 704-970-0391
24-SP-152 // 24-008855
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Mary Elizabeth Foun-
as the Administrator of the Estate of Patricia of Haywood County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Andrew Vernon East,
Executor of the Estate of of Haywood County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
of Haywood County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
WILLIAM TAYLOR MC-
as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of MCNEILL, III of Jackson County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
EXECUTOR
C/O WILLIAM TAYLOR MCNEILL
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Christopher Dillard, hav-
utor of the Estate of of Jackson County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
c/o Christopher Dillard
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
David Luke Williams, Administrator of the Estate of
VALERIE KESTER COX, ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of IV of Jackson County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or
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before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
ADMINISTRATOR C/O VALERIE COX
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Wayne Dean Monteith,
Ancillary Executor of the Estate of
of York County, South Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before , or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
c/o Mullen Holland & Cooper, PA
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Land For Sale
TINY HOME LOTS FOR SALE
Each lot comes with water & power run to each lot, and septic. Located in Franklin, NC. Visit our website for directions & more info. www.TinyMountainEstates.com
MountainEstates@gmail. com
Medical
Auction
PUBLIC AUCTION Surplus Government Vehicles and Equipment ROCK HILL, SC Saturday, June 21, 10am 757 South Anderson Rd. Rock Hill, SC. Selling Kubota Mini Excavators, Skid Steers, Backhoe, Motor Grader, UTV’s, Garbage Trucks, SUV’s, Mowers, Police Cars, Tahoes, more. www.ClassicAuctions. com NCAF5479/5508/ SCAL2893R 704-791-8825
HIGH-QUALITY RECHARGEABLE, powerful Audien hearing aids
competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45day money back guarantee! 888-970-4637
Miscellaneous
on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually im-
paired. Arrange a swif t, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-869-7055 today!
ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50
NOW: 1-833-641-6594
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for a quote, service or an inspection today! 1-833-406-6971
YOU MAY QUALIFY for
are between 52-63 years old and under a doc-tor’s care for a health condition that prevents you from working for a year or more. Call now! 1-833641-3892
HOUND MIX, BROWN BRINDLE &WHITE—
Liz Buys Houses: 1-888247-1189
Services
Construction/ Remodeling
WATER DAMAGE
CLEANUP & RESTO-
RATION: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home’s value! Call 24/7: 1-833-928-1861. Have zip code of service location ready when you call!
Real Estate Announcements
WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling
Entertainment
GET DISH SATELLITE
TV + Internet! Get DISH
Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HDDVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-877-920-7405
BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call: 1-877-560-1844
Legal, Financial and Tax
DENIED SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? Ap -
SSD and denied, our attorneys can help! Win or Pay Nothing! Strong, recent work history needed 877-553-0252 [Steppach-Ave Scranton PA 18503]
Wanted to Buy
TOP CA$H PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos 1-833-641-6577
