Experience Haywood 2022

EXPERIENCE

Haywood’s Resilient Economy

Affordable Housing Efforts

Paying Dividends

Social Media Sensation

Jonathan Creek Clogger

Rides the Wave

Frog Level Brewing

Expands Footprint

Businesses of the Month

The Haywood Chamber of Commerce

Michael Coleman

Haywood Community College

Michael Ferguson

Evergreen Packaging

Ken Howle

Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center

Travis Hyatt

M.B Haynes Corporation

Bruce Johnson

Champion Janitorial Supply

Jonathan Key

The Mountaineer

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS

Cory Nuckolls

Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center

Latisha Perkins Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group

Laura Tragesser

First Citizens Bank

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Emily McCurry, AAMS

Edward Jones

Scott McLeod

Smoky Mountain News

Jake Robinson

Champion Credit Union

Pratik Shah

Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn

Laura Tragesser

First Citizens Bank

Jason Walls

Duke Energy

Wendolyn Forbes

Wealth Transition Finance

AMBASSADORS

Lorelei Garnes

WNC Social Media Buzz

Merritt Tongen

LN Davis Insurance Agency

Ron Robinson

Land of Sky Advisors

STAFF

CeCe Hipps — President

Taylor Foxworth — Member Engagement and Communications Manager

Jean Dilley — Special Projects Manager

Richard Tirrell — Accountant

Richie Sund

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino

Chris Brown

Haywood Regional Medical Center

Brennan Cunningham

Sparksmith

Jenny Woods

Haywood County Public Schools

Patrick Bradshaw

Civil Designs Concepts, P.A.

Billy Case

Lucas & Case Real Estate

Olivia Terrell

Virtelle Hospitality

Robbin Brophy

Brophy & Associates, LLC

Rob Roland

Rob Roland Realty

The Haywood Chamber of Commerce

Michael Coleman Haywood Community College Chairman

Bruce Johnson Champion Supply Finance Chair

Scott McLeod Smoky Mountain News Immediate Past Chairman

Jake Robinson Champion Credit Union

Laura Tragesser First Citizens Bank

From the President

Dear valued partner:

When I think of all that our chamber stands for, I’m perhaps most proud of the fact that it is a big tent that welcomes everyone in the business community who wants to help make this county a better place to live and work.

The chamber is a diverse organization that represents a broad geographic and demographic spectrum of Haywood County. The chamber is growing, gaining new members, and constantly coming up with new ways for members to network and interact with each other (see page 47).

We value the strong partnerships we have forged with Haywood’s government officials and our elected state and federal representatives. In January of this year we hosted an Elected Officials Reception which was attended by almost every local and state representative that serves Haywood County. One of the purposes of this reception is to thank those leaders for their service, but it was also gratifying to see our members interacting with these elected officials and getting to know them. That’s exactly the kind of experience we want to offer to our members.

A few days later newly elected Congressman Chuck Edwards dropped into the chamber office for a listening session. Once again, chamber members were granted access to one of

those people whose decision making could have a huge influence on their business, on this region and the country.

I am also proud of the way we have adapted over the years to a changing economy and a changing workplace. Last year marked the Chamber’s 50th anniversary, meaning half of its history occurred in the 20th century, back before smart phones and laptops. The Chamber has embraced the technological advancements that are critical to the organization’s ongoing success, both for work productively and communication with our partners. Our events and meetings, our e-newsletters, our website and even this Directory are all part of our

ongoing efforts to keep the business community connected and informed.

As we move into 2023, we will continue to face whatever obstacles come our way with a strong and steadfast focus on current leadership, cultivation of new and diverse leaders, advocacy for our business partners, innovation, and continued development of resources.

A sunrise view of Lake Junaluska. A SHOT ABOVE PHOTO

POPULATION

2022.........................64,202

2010 Census ....................59,036 Median Resident Age ..............48.9 CLIMATE

Average High Temperature ....70.7 degrees

Average Low Temperature .....50 degrees

Average Rainfall ..........53 inches/year

Average Snowfall .........14 inches/year

Square Miles ...................553.66

Highest Elevation.6,410-foot Richland Balsam Rivers Pigeon River Lakes........Lake Junaluska, Lake Logan

TAXES, PROPERTY & FINANCES

Sales Tax .................6.75 percent

2022 County Property Tax per $100 Value ................$0.535

2022 Canton Municipal Property Tax per $100 Value .................$0.54

2022 Clyde Municipal Property Tax per $100 Value .................$0.43

2022 Maggie Valley Municipal Property Tax per $100 Value ..............$0.40

2022 Waynesville Municipal Property Tax per $100 Value ..........$0.4392

Housing Units ..................35,742

Median Value of Homes ........$186,500

2022 Median Family Income .......$51,233

MAJOR EMPLOYERS (FULL TIME EMPLOYEES)

Evergreen Inc. (Paper Products) ......1,024

Haywood County Schools ..........883

Haywood Regional Medical Center ....808

Consolidated Metco (Truck Parts) ......475

Haywood County Government ........471

Walmart .........................391

Haywood Vocational Opportunities ....335

Giles Chemicals ...................225

Town of Waynesville................173

Haywood Community College ........167

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

2022.....................3.9% (Sept.)

GOVERNMENT

Haywood County ...........828.452.6625

Town of Canton ............828.648.2363

Town of Clyde .............828.627.2566

Town of Maggie Valley.......828.926.0866

Town of Waynesville ........828.452.2491

UTILITIES & SERVICES

Progress Energy ............800.452.2777

Haywood County EMC .......828.452.2281

Duke Energy ..............800.943.7585

AT&T....................828.780.2355

Charter Spectrum Cable ......877.728.3814

Dish Network ..............800.617.4835

Town of Clyde .............828.627.2566

Town of Canton ............828.648.2363

Town of Maggie Valley.......828.926.0866

Town of Waynesville ........828.456.2031

Haywood Chamber of Commerce 28 Walnut St. • Waynesville, NC 28786 828.456.3021

www.haywoodchamber.com

Information compiled from local data sources and U.S. Census Bureau figures.

NEWSPAPERS

Positively Haywood .........828.476.6055

The Mountaineer ...........828.452.0661

The Smoky Mountain News..828.452.4251

WAYNESVILLE

Waynesville is Haywood County’s largest town and county seat, containing both the Haywood County Courthouse and town of Waynesville offices. Single-family homes and retail stores surround the historic downtown with its quaint brick sidewalks, galleries, breweries, gourmet restaurants, clothing and gift stores.

Locals mingle with droves of tourists for daily lunches, downtown festivals and gallery strolls. On the outskirts of town, mountain homes look across the valley below with views of the Smoky Mountains stretching for miles.

The town was founded by Robert Love, a Revolutionary War colonel born in Virginia, and named after “Mad” Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War hero. After the war Love, his wife and 10 children relocated from their home in what is now part of eastern Tennessee to Haywood County’s Richland Creek area. Love was a wealthy man who had inherited a fortune and worked as a land speculator, lawyer, justice of the peace, surveyor, state senator and clerk of court.

In 1809, Love donated 17 acres for the town of Waynesville, which was where the courthouse, jail and stocks were to be built. A main street and cross street were plotted, along with a public square and 30 half acre lots. The public square was located at the intersection of Main Street and Cross Street — today known as Church Street on one end and East Street on the other.

The town includes the historic Frog Level District, where the old railroad depot was located and where tourists would disembark from trains coming from the hotter climes to the east. This area now includes a brewery, a coffee shop and other retail outlets.

The town of Hazelwood, incorporated in 1905, was a town in and of its own right until it merged with Waynesville in 1995. The tiny town initially housed employees at W.H. Cole’s sawmill, but then grew to contain several industries including a furniture factory, a tannery, and a shoe and boot factory.

Now, downtown Hazelwood is a bustling business district with restaurants, a coffee shop, a bookstore, and several unique and locally owned retail shops with plenty of on-site parking.

Hazelwood is home to the Folkmoot Friendship Center, headquarters of the state’s official international festival, celebrated each year in July.

CANTON

The neighboring towns of Canton and Clyde are the bedrock of eastern Haywood County. Canton largely grew up out of service to what is now Evergreen Packaging, a large paper mill on the banks of the Pigeon River. Many of the homes in the area, particularly in downtown Canton, are architectural gems. The tiny but well-designed buildings housed mill workers and managers. The town rose in the early 1900s and was a bustle of activity in Haywood County.

Canton’s downtown buildings are an interesting mix of styles with notable structures such as the

Communities OF HAYWOOD COUNTY

Imperial Hotel. Built soon after the railroad reached Canton around 1880, it was originally a private home. Over the years it was advertised as “one of the best commercial hotels of the $2 class in this state,” and in 1918 was renovated to become separate offices, shops and residences.

The town’s Main Street Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and several new businesses have opened in recent years including restaurants, a brewery, a bakery, a coffee shop and specialty retail stores.

Just south of Canton is Bethel, a rural community located in an open valley north of the nowfamous Cold Mountain. The community provides a rural escape where you’ll also find a local restaurant, gas station, produce stand or homerun businesses dotting the miles of rolling pasture land tucked in between mountain peaks.

The Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest are easily accessible via U.S. 276 or N.C. 215 from Bethel. Cruso is south of Bethel along U.S. 276. The community proclaims itself “Nine miles of friendly people and one old grouch.” There’s even an annual contest to elect the old grouch.

Nearby communities include Beaverdam, Dutch Cove, Hominy, Pigeon, Newfound and Sunburst.

CLYDE

Located east of Waynesville and west of Canton, Clyde is largely a residential community with a small central business district. Clyde’s location makes it a great place for commuters with jobs in the region’s larger towns. Clyde is home to Hay-

wood Community College, with its renowned professional crafts program, and Haywood Regional Medical Center, which is under the Duke-LifePoint umbrella.

The town is also home to what is thought to be the oldest house in Haywood County, the Shook-Smathers Home. Jacob Shook, a Revolutionary War veteran, built the house in 1795. It began as a log house, but the home’s attic was turned into a large chapel. Today the restored home is a museum.

The township of Clyde officially was formed in 1877 but was not incorporated until 1889. The town’s boundary forms a perfect circle. It is said that the circle’s midpoint was a knothole in a floorboard of the town’s train station, and from that knothole a geometric circle was drawn and all the area within that circle became part of the town.

LAKE JUNALUSKA

Lake Junaluska is located in the heart of Haywood County. The community is nestled around a 200-acre lake with incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains. Lake Junaluska was originally established in 1913 as a retreat center for Methodists, and today it is open to all. It was named for Junaluska Mountain, which was named after a Cherokee Indian chief. From the beginning, Lake Junaluska was a conference center as well as a residential community.

Today the grounds include two hotels, dormitory and motel-like facilities, a restaurant, coffee shop, bookstore, a campground, a golf course, 16

gardens, meeting facilities and 800 residential homes. The 2.3-mile walking trail around the lake is one of the most popular recreation areas in Haywood County.

Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center hosts thousands of guests every year from around the world. The center welcomes corporate and nonprofit groups, families, weddings, reunions, vacation guests and churches of all denominations. It also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year, including the Balsam Range Art of Music Festival, Smoky Mountain Folk Festival and a fantastic Independence Day Celebration.

The lake is open to all to stay in the hotels or vacation rental homes, walk around the lake or participate in recreation activities including a pool, boat rentals, tennis, volleyball and shuffleboard.

The mission of Lake Junaluska is to be a place of Christian hospitality where lives are transformed through the renewal of soul, mind and body.

MAGGIE VALLEY

The eastern gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maggie Valley was incorporated as a tourist town, a fact evident by its mix of family restaurants, music and entertainment venues, rental properties and souvenir stores. The town is a bustling center of activity throughout the year and a hotspot for motorcyclists.

Maggie Valley got its name after one of the valley’s 1860s settlers, John Sidney Setzer, realized the town was in need of a post office. No name, no post office, the government said. Four suggestions were sent to Washington, three of them being Setzer’s daughters’ names — Cora, Mettie and Maggie. Maggie was selected, but it wasn’t until about 1947 that the word “valley” was added. Miss Maggie is still around, portrayed by a volunteer who wears a yellow bonnet, waves to passing cars and appears at festivals.

The Wheels Through Time transportation museum houses what some consider the world’s finest collection of vintage motorcycles, and nearly all of them still run. The museum — which also has a classic car collection — attracts visitors from throughout the world and has been featured in several television specials.

Bearwaters Brewing has an outpost in the valley and Cataloochee Ski Area, also in Maggie Valley, is one of the South’s premier ski resorts. The festival grounds located along Maggie Valley’s main commercial strip hosts events on many weekends throughout the summer and fall, including the Elk Festival each September.

Maggie Valley is known as a great jumping off point to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, especially Cataloochee Valley and its resident elk herd.

Nearby communities include Dellwood, Jonathan Creek, Hemphill, Ivy Hill, Soco, Rabbit Skin, White Oak and approaching the Tennessee Line, Fines Creek, Harmon’s Den, and Panther Creek.

Putting the post-pandemic puzzle back together

The Coronavirus Pandemic is over — or, at least, the social and economic disruptions associated with it are.

But as people across the globe begin to resume pre-Pandemic patterns of business activity, they’re finding that while some things have remained the same, others are indeed quite different.

That sentiment certainly applies to Haywood County.

“The way I’ve explained it to people is, you have a puzzle and you shook it up with the Pandemic, and now things are kind of coming back, but they’re not the same as they were before,” said Tom Tveidt, a research economist with Waynesville-based Syneva Economics.

Originally from Santa Barbara, California, Tveidt holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of California-Santa Barbara and a Master of Business Administration

from California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.

Over the past 25 years, Tveidt has delved into some of the most pressing issues in North Carolina for some pretty important clients — city and county governments, community colleges and chambers of commerce, like Haywood’s.

“That probably is the core of what I do is help my clients make educated decisions because there’s a huge void in local data,” he said. “You can turn on the TV, you can look at a national newspaper, but I can tell you that what’s happening nationally is not what’s happening locally.”

For the past five years, Tveidt has produced for the Haywood Chamber a monthly newsletter that tracks key economic indicators in the county.

That’s true in many ways, according to data collected by Tveidt that shows Haywood County has rebounded quickly from the disruption of the Pandemic years of 2020 and 2021.

“That probably is the core of what I do is help my clients make educated decisions because there’s a huge void in local data.”

— Tom Tveidt

Working in his Waynesville office, Tom Tveidt collects the data that informs regional decisionmakers.

CORY VAILLANCOURT PHOTO

Nationally, the 2022 average monthly unemployment rate from January through July came in at 3.8%. For North Carolina, it’s 3.7%. Haywood County is tied for fourth-lowest among North Carolina’s 100 counties at 3.1%.

That’s a pretty significant recovery; during the depths of the pandemic in April 2020, Haywood County’s unemployment rate was more than 16%.

“Historically we’ve always been really low, so we’re back to where we were in the beginning of 2020,” he said. “We’re below the state and the nation, which we typically are as well.”

Job growth in Haywood County has demonstrated similar resiliency. From January through July of 2022, the average monthly yearover-year growth in total employment was 4.5% nationally, 5.1% in the state, and 6.2% in Haywood County, better than 94 other North Carolina counties.

The state’s pro-growth, anti-tax policies might just have something to do with that. In July, CNBC ranked North Carolina as the number one state to do business in, based on a solid credit rating, access to capital and worldrenowned research facilities.

Legislators continue to cut individual income tax rates, which are currently at 4.99% and down from 5.75% in 2015. Corporate income taxes are also on the chopping block, at 2.5% percent with a stated goal of phasing them out altogether in the near future.

Haywood County’s government has itself gained a reputation for prudent fiscal management. Only 16 of the state’s 100 counties have a lower property tax rate, and Standard & Poor recently upgraded the county’s bond rating to AA+ in part because long-term debt is rolling off the books. Officials believe another upgrade will come soon.

As a result, Haywood County has seen explosive post-pandemic growth in several employment sectors, most of which are related to the county’s robust tourism-based economy.

Real estate rental and leasing employment grew by more than 38% since 2019, construction jobs are up 13% and accommodation and food services employment has grown by more than 3%.

Those numbers track well with a tourism boom that actually took place during the pandemic. Haywood County benefitted from pentup regional demand that arose from shutdowns in 2020, once lodging facilities were cleared to reopen safely that May.

Since then, the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority’s monthly reports have been a highlight reel of record-setting revenues.

The Haywood TDA is the entity charged with collecting and spending the county’s room occupancy tax, currently at 4% per night. To that end, the TDA’s meticulous assemblage of data provides a long-term set of apples-to-apples figures that serves as a reliable indicator of visitation numbers over decades.

For the 2020-21 fiscal year, receipts surpassed $2.5 million, exceeding 2019-20 fiscal

year totals by almost $1 million. In the most recent 2021-22 fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, collections fell just short of $2.9 million.

This past July, the TDA granted out $500,000 in one-time special project funding for tourism infrastructure projects meant to keep visitors coming, and coming back.

The tourism data in turn correlates with a surge in sales tax revenues. In July, 2019, before the Pandemic began, the North Carolina Department of Revenue reported $3.5 million in

Key economic indicators for 2022

Pandemic has, however, brought with it some growing pains that governments and nonprofits are currently addressing.

The red-hot real estate market that drove up home prices throughout the Pandemic — average list price in Haywood County was $491,000 as of August 24, 2022 — now shows signs of cooling off, with a 17% decline in year-overyear closings.

Those market pressures, along with the proliferation of short-term rentals, have had an impact on the affordability of workforce housing, but with hundreds of new units online or coming online soon, that’s expected to change.

monthly sales tax collections from $74.1 million in taxable purchases and spending within Haywood County.

In July 2020, collections grew to $4.2 million. In July, 2021, collections surged to $4.6 million. In July of 2022, the last month for which data are currently available, collections were noted as $5.1 million on more than $107 million in spending.

The vigorous economic activity taking place in Haywood County both during and after the

The county has also pursued affordable housing grants with great success and recently created a revolving loan fund that will help nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity construct more affordable housing, increasing the county’s small but sustainable .6% annual population growth.

Broadband implementation remains the biggest piece of the puzzle for economic development professionals to solve — especially for enterprise-scale users — but tens of millions of dollars in the form of federal grants have slowly but surely been flowing into the county, incentivizing providers to connect difficult-to-reach locations and thereby empowering the next generation of Haywood County students, entrepreneurs and technology professionals.

Champion Credit Union started in Canton in 1932 (above) where it served workers at what once was known as the Champion Paper Mill.

Champion Credit Union

Serving the community comes naturally

Celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2022, Champion Credit Union remains a beacon of both banking and community service in Haywood County and greater Western North Carolina.

“We’re doing as well financially as we’ve ever done,” said CCU President/CEO Jake Robinson. “And I think the reason for that’s just because of our commitment to not only providing financial services, but doing everything we can

to support the community — volunteer efforts, supporting organizations, and making sure our community is stronger.”

In 1932, seven employees of the Champion Paper Fibre Company in Canton joined forces to ensure their financial survival moving forward, all while the Great Depression ravaged the American economy.

What was initially called Champion Savings & Loan is now known as Champion Credit

Union — a locally-owned and nationally-recognized not-for-profit bank heralded as a standard of financial strength and community outreach.

“We certainly aim to offer incredible service and really competitive products, but we don’t want that to be an identifying factor of who we are,” Robinson said. “We want people to see us as a responsible organization who’s doing as much as they can to make Western North Car-

olina a better place — to live, work, and play.”

Coming into its 10th decade of service, there are over 27,000 members of the credit union, whose reach stretches across Haywood, Buncombe, Henderson, Jackson, Swain, Macon, Madison, Transylvania and Graham counties.

“We certainly have aspirations to grow, but we want to do it organically by serving our groups and our communities,” Robinson said. “For us, it’s a maintained, sustainable growth that we’ve had over the last several years. We haven’t grown too fast to where we can’t continue supporting in the ways that people expect us to with personalized service and a community focus.”

Robinson himself is no stranger to success and a shared vision as a team player and community member. As a graduate of Pisgah High School, the Canton native was a standout athlete, ultimately becoming a star basketball player at Western Carolina University in nearby Cullowhee. Aside from being team captain for two seasons, Robinson was recently awarded the WCU Young Alumnus Award.

“Having a competitive background in athletics and being asked to step up in a leadership role is a much different context [in sports] than in the professional world, but leadership skills were certainly ingrained in me from a very young age,” Robinson modestly said. “I worked my tail off in college to get a quality education, and I had people who believed in me, providing resources and educational opportunities to help me grow — it’s about building relationships where we can all succeed together.”

In 2015, at just age 27, Robinson became the president and CEO of CCU. Although, in comparison, he was very young to be taking on such a big role and responsibility with CCU, Robinson looked at the job title as a platform to do great things within the communities he now serves.

“If I were 27 years old and didn’t have a whole lot of experience in Western North Carolina, I don’t know if the transition into this role would have been quite as successful, seeing as there’s so much to know and understand about this region,” Robinson said. “Having a real understanding of what people go through here, and what their expectations are, is what gives me perspective. Having that background is what I think about when we are coming up with new strategies and initiatives.”

In regards to CCU recently receiving the Haywood Chamber of Commerce “Business of the Year” award, Robinson will be the first to show gratitude for the honor, but also note the importance of seeing the award as a benchmark to always strive to improve the efficiency and connectivity of the bank and its customers.

“Although it’s certainly an honor to be given this award, we don’t do things every day for recognition necessarily — we do it because we think it’s the right thing to do,” Robinson said. “And the Chamber is such a catalyst for economic development and growth in our community. For them to say that we are worthy of

this title is affirmation that what we’re doing is making a difference, giving us momentum and energy to continue to push forward.”

And with the centennial celebration of Champion Credit Union not too far off in the distance, Robinson and his employees are steadfast in a continually fulfilled mission of financial stability and community service that stretches back almost a century.

“You talk about inspiration and we see it first-hand each day, whether it’s helping a small business grow, someone getting their first credit card or purchase a home, or helping someone get out of debt and into financial freedom,” Robinson said. “When you can share in those successes and help people through those tough times, that’s the reward that no money could ever buy — that the reason why we do what we do.”

“For us, it’s a maintained, sustainable growth that we’ve had over the last several years. We haven’t grown too fast to where we can’t continue supporting in the ways that people expect us to with personalized service and a community focus.”

— Jake Robinson

Jake Robinson, CEO of Champion Credit Union.

The Scotsman

Investing in Haywood County

The popular Scotsman Public House, located in the old Masonic Temple on Church Street in downtown Waynesville, received The Entrepreneur of the Year award at this year’s Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner. The establishment prides themselves on unique, elevated dishes, a lengthy beer list and craft cocktail options.

“Being such a new business, we weren’t expecting to win ‘Entrepreneur of the Year,’ so it was very surprising and humbling,” said Makyia Blair who owns the pub alongside her husband, Scot. “We appreciated how the Chamber noticed that we were making a concerted effort to invest in the community and hire locally.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Makyia and Scot were living in San Diego working in the bustling Southern California craft beer and culinary industry. As the shutdown began, the couple set their sights on a fresh start, one that included a move across the country. The pair had traveled to the Smoky Mountains during their honeymoon and Scot had visited the region as a kid, so they knew they wanted to settle somewhere in these ancient hills. After stumbling upon the Gateway Club via a simple Google search, they decided on Waynesville.

“The green of Waynesville reminds me of my hometown of Olympia, where there are many trees and creeks,” said Blair. “Having some reminiscence of the town I grew up in is really nice, especially after living 11 years in San Diego where it’s brown and not very pretty unless you live right near the beach.”

Another reason Makyia and Scot chose Haywood County is because they wanted to be part of the emerging food and beverage scene in Western North Carolina. If they have a day off, they enjoy traveling to the many eclectic towns that surround the culinary hub of Asheville, enjoying the scenery and trying out restaurants, breweries, cocktail lounges and other establishments.

It’s not merely the great outdoors and the social vibe that Makyia finds appealing about Waynesville.

“Coming from the West Coast where everyone’s a little aloof and keeps to themselves, it was cool to come to Waynesville where everyone is friendly,” said Blair. “I remember when we first got here and were walking our dogs around Lake Junaluska. We had so many inter-

actions with people. They would stop to ask about our dogs and chit chat. That was a really nice surprise.”

Blair is heavily involved in the Chamber of Commerce. She loves the camaraderie of the business community and the way merchants support one another. When they were renovating and designing the building, they strived to use local businesses. Clark & Leatherwood managed the construction, and Makyia purchased much of their decor from local merchants. She even found a place in Franklin that sold tartans, as opposed to going with a New York company.

“I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the Chamber of Commerce,” said Blair. “I go to every Issues & Eggs. It’s nice to be around other business owners, especially when we’re all going through the same challenges. Currently, a lot of business owners are struggling with labor. It’s helpful to be around others who understand.”

Makyia and Scot were very appreciative of the ribbon cutting event hosted by the Chamber. The Scotsman is her husband’s sixth business but the first with a ribbon cutting. You don’t get that kind of thing in a big city, she said.

They are enjoying other Chamber of Commerce events as well. The Scotsman sponsored

a hole at this year’s Tailgating on the Greens golf event. They also sponsored a booth at the Apple Harvest Festival. In the coming years, Makyia hopes the labor shortage will stabilize so they have more bandwidth to take The Scotsman on the road to festivals and events.

“As we hire more staff, we hope to expand our offerings with our Scotsman Spirit Club events, whiskey and beer pairing dinners, and also elaborate more on events like Oktoberfest,” said Blair. “The members of the Chamber have been welcoming and encouraging. We can feel they want us to succeed, and we want all of them to succeed as well.”

Makyia and Scot Blair (top left), owners of the Scotsman, who were named the Greater Haywood Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneurs of the Year. The Scotsman is located on Church Street in the old Gateway Club building.

Lake Junaluska

A Haywood County Haven

Located in the geographic center of Haywood County, Lake Junaluska not only serves as a sanctuary for the soul but also a response hub when it comes to emergency crises. During the flood of August 2021, Lake Junaluska emerged as a haven for rescue workers and those displaced by the raging waters.

“The flood took place at a time when we had lodging available,” said Executive Director Ken

Howle. “We were able to very quickly pivot as an organization to clean rooms and prepare space to provide sanctuary for rescue workers and those impacted by the storm.”

It wasn’t merely the Lake Junaluska staff who offered hands and hearts to assist flood victims. Many residents and property owners came forward to prepare meals, clean spaces and offer prayers.

“When the workers finished a day of difficult tasks, they could come here to find sanctuary and renewal,” said Howle.

Lake Junaluska’s involvement in the flood recovery is an example of how they use their resources to bring the entire county together. Rescue workers lodged at Lake Junaluska from Aug. 17 to Aug. 23. During that time, 10 meals were served to an average 150 to 200 people per meal. The dinners were served in tandem with community partners such as New Covenant

Church, Long’s Chapel and the Junaluskans volunteer organization.

Additionally, Lake Junaluska provided approximately up to 50 room accommodations for displaced families starting August 18. Lengths of stays varied, most ranging from two to five months. The county furnished food for the families from a meeting space at Lake Junaluska.

“We’re proud of the strong relationships we have with Haywood County leaders and that we were able to quickly respond to the needs communicated by them,” said Howle.

Howle and his staff are no strangers to tackling a crisis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lake Junaluska strived to offer a place of reprieve at a time when so much uncertainty engulfed the world. With shutdowns and closures happening everywhere, Lake Junaluska canceled many indoor events, large gatherings and

The view from Lake Junaluska’s Inspiration Point.

When floods from Tropical Storm Fred devastated Cruso and Canton, Lake Junaluska stepped up to the plate to provide housing and food for rescue personnel who came to Haywood to help with the aftermath and to residents in need of emergency shelter.

conferences, but they were able to bring solace with outdoor opportunities such as the walking trail, Inspiration Point and Lake Junaluska Outfitters.

“Outdoor recreation exploded during the pandemic,” said Howle. “We saw more paddlers in the water, more golfers on the golf course, and more walkers on the walking trail than ever before and that’s continued following the pandemic. People rediscovered the renewal that can take place uniquely in an outdoor setting.”

Since 2020, Lake Junaluska Outfitters has expanded to include more recreational options, boat tours and even a place where parents and grandparents can teach children boating skills.

“Ultimately, outdoor recreation can be ‘recreation’ and provide renewal for the soul, mind and body,” said Howle.

Over the past several years, Lake Junalsuka has worked to create multi-generational activities. During the pandemic they learned that families yearn for adventure that meets a variety of age and ability levels.

“There are many activities at Lake Junaluska for people of all abilities that allow them to be together outdoors,” said Teresa Tate, assistant director of marketing and communications. “You don’t have to be an expert kayaker or be able to hike a steep mountain to experience Lake Junaluska. We see grandparents and grandkids spending time together at the prayer labyrinth, on boat tours and at many other places. Family members can enjoy these special activities together, no matter their age.”

At this year’s Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner, Howle received the Leader of the Year Award. In response, Howle said, “This is not an award for me but for the people who work here. It’s an award for the entire staff because we all work collectively here at Lake Junaluska to make everything happen.”

For over 100 years, Lake Junaluska has offered a beautiful, restful setting for visitors and Haywood County locals. They continue to grow and evolve with the times, hosting daily activities, large events and being available to serve surrounding communities.

“Our mission is to be a place of Christian hospitality, where lives are transformed through renewal of soul, mind and body. We hire staff who believe in and are energized by the mission,” said Howle. “This mission guides everything we do.”

“We saw more paddlers in the water, more golfers on the golf course, and more walkers on the walking trail than ever before and that’s continued following the pandemic.”

— Executive Director Ken Howle

Rob

- Bill M.

Chestnut Mountain Nature Park

“Now on one of our main corridors, the entrances to the town and to the west, we are making a statement what our priority is,” Smathers told the crowd. “We are embracing outdoor recreation and tourism and the idea that our natural resources should be preserved and can be used.”

Creating the park — 450 acres of land set aside for hiking, biking, picnics, water quality and wildlife habitat — at first seemed an im-

possible dream for the tiny town of fewer than 5,000 people.

Following the speaking program this past April, an array of elected officials, conservation workers and philanthropists cut the ribbon on Chestnut Mountain, marking the official opening of the project’s first phase.

This includes the mountain biking skills course at Berm Park  and a 0.6-mile hiking/biking trail that climbs 350 feet to connect the gateway and pedestrian bridge to what will become the park’s main trailhead. While hikers and bikers will use the same path to ascend the mountain, a dedicated descent trail for bikers aims to prevent conflicts and accidents.

Featuring five trails of varying difficulties, Berm Park is the brainchild of Asheville resident Seth Alvo, whose YouTube channel Berm Peak has 2.4 million subscribers. He raised $250,000 to design and build the park, with Asheville-based Elevated Trail Design completing the project. Analogous to runs at a downhill ski resort, the short trails at Berm Park provide a variety of obstacles and trick opportunities, with riders doing multiple loops of the course on each visit.

When Alvo set out to build a free public bike park, he didn’t picture doing it in Canton.

But, Pisgah Area SORBA suggested he contact the town, and an enthusiastic reception from then Assistant Town Manager Nick Scheuer, who has since been promoted to town manager, made it clear that Canton was the right place.   While Alvo’s supporters paid for Berm Park’s development, SAHC paid for the land — a total project cost of $3.52 million. The land trust had to take out a loan to complete the transaction, but as of last week, it had finished raising the money to pay it off and transferred the deed to the Town of Canton.

Large contributions from Brad and Shelli Stanback and the N.C. Land and Water Fund, along with funding from the Pigeon River Fund, the Conservation Trust for North Carolina, the N.C. Department of Justice, the Town of Canton and individual donors made that possible.

Once complete, Chestnut Mountain will be much more than a mountain biking park and ascent trail. The project has, to date, landed $860,000 in grants for creek restoration, trails, signage and other recreation amenities. With that money, said Scheuer, the town will build trails, treehouse-style overlooks, a picnic pavilion, a kids’ bicycle playground, creek access and more.

As Earth Day 2022 bloomed under one of spring’s sunniest skies yet, more than 150 people gathered on a concrete bridge spanning Hominy Creek just outside Canton to celebrate what Mayor Zeb Smathers termed a “gift of genesis” — the longawaited opening of Chestnut Mountain Nature Park.

The project’s biggest award so far was $500,000 from the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, which will go toward trails, overlooks, the pavilion and ADA parking, and the town has also received $100,000 from the N.C. Recreational Trails Program.

The master plan calls for 15-18 miles of trails — three hiking-only trails, two shared-use trails and five single-direction mountain bike trails. So far, the town has funding for about 75% of the proposed trail network and plans to continue pursuing funding for the rest.

Other money secured so far include $47,000 in Haywood County Tourism Development Authority grants for the gateway sign, marketing and activation; $15,000 in grant writing assistance from the Dogwood Trust Leverage Fund; and $205,000 for Hominy Creek restoration, of which $30,000 is from the Pigeon River Fund and $175,000 from the N.C. Land and Water Fund.

As one of the largest privately owned tracts left in Haywood County, Chestnut Mountain represented a massive opportunity — not only for people, but also for wildlife.

“It sits in an important area for wildlife and wildlife movement ,” said Hanni Muerdter, conservation director for the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. “Locals know this well, and every time I’m on this property, the amount of tracks I see are amazing.”

The lower portion of the property where Berm Park is and where the frontcountry recreational amenities will go had been heavily disturbed by previous landowners, meaning that it’s not too significant for plant and animal species. But the far eastern portion, where Muerdter has most often come across wildlife, will remain mostly untouched under the project plan.

Now that the town holds the deed, Chestnut Mountain is officially a Canton project — but in reality, it’s a partnership project. The 150 people present for the opening ceremony represented the dozens of organizations, officials and individuals who donated, lobbied, sweated or otherwise worked to see the project through.

“When I was trying to think about how to sum up this day and what Chestnut Mountain means for conservation and for recreation, for people, it’s that it’s a big thing,” said Scheuer. “It’s a big thing for our land. It’s a big thing to protect the wildlife that we love. It’s a big thing for our community. We’re building a legacy park — it’s going to be here forever and be enjoyed by future generations.”

“We are embracing outdoor recreation and tourism and the idea that our natural resources should be preserved and can be used.”

— Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers

After the floodwaters receded, Griffith — like many other farmers in Bethel and Cruso — was left without a crop to harvest and tens of thousands of dollars in damage to repair. Before the flood, he’d picked only about 25% of his cucumbers and 45% of his peppers. Surveying the damage, he questioned whether it was even worth fixing. At 62, did it make sense to keep farming?

“Last year, I didn’t make anything, and I worked really hard to get back to zero,” Griffith said last week as he stood in his rehabilitated field, laden with ripe green peppers. Across the road hung rows of cucumbers, in total 20 acres of vegetables.

“You have to be able to withstand that sometimes, because you can’t predict the weather,” he said. “But it can’t be like that all the time.”

He wouldn’t have done it, he said, if not for his daughter and son-in-law, Cayleigh and Brandon Phillips. They’d been living out in Nebraska but wanted to come home to North Carolina, take over the farm, and raise their son, who’s not quite 2 years old. At 34, Brandon is much younger than the average U.S. farmer, who as of 2017 was 57.5 years old.

“I’ve been around farming my whole life, and farming of scale, too, so it is a massive undertaking but it ain’t, I guess, because I’m used to big numbers,” he said. In a “past life,” he managed a chicken farm of 1.5 million animals.

“I’m glad they’re doing it,” Griffith said of the Phillips’ decision — but he’s also nervous for them. They left good-paying jobs to come farm in Bethel, and a farmer’s finances are anything but secure.

“You have to have price, quantity and quality,” he said “If you can get all three of those things, you’re going to be fine. But if you end up getting one of them, you’re not going to make any money. You can’t control the weather; you can’t control the price. You can do the best job you can do at your farm, and those other two things can make you or break you.”

‘GULLYWASHERS’ OF AID

In addition to a lot of hard work, aid from local nonprofits and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services allowed Griffith to break even last year, though lack of profit meant covering any personal expenses, like groceries or mortgage payments, from savings. Some of those funds took so long to come through, he had to decide how much to plant this spring before knowing how much he’d recuperated from last year’s losses.

Local donations rolled in after the flood “fairly quick,” said Griffith, smaller amounts that nonetheless were instrumental in getting him through a difficult time.

“Then we had the politicians come in with the promise of everything,” he said, adding that

When Gary Griffith woke up on a rainy Tuesday on Aug. 17, 2021, he never imagined that by the next morning, the 12 acres of green peppers he’d grown along the Pigeon River in Bethel would rest in drifts miles downstream, the unofficial symbol of the catastrophic tragedy that was Tropical Storm Fred.

‘It can’t be like that all the time’ Farmers recover from Fred amid inflation, weather worries

Brandon Phillips is preparing to take over the farm from his father-in-law Gary Griffith following the devastation of Tropical Storm Fred last year. HOLLY KAYS PHOTO

those promises were much slower to be fulfilled, if at all.

“It has to be just about a perfect storm for you to get anything,” he said of the federal aid programs. “There’s so many conditions that you just don’t meet the criteria.”

Since he started growing vegetables nine years ago, Griffith has carried flood insurance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency, but the amount of money he got in return for the complete loss he suffered in 2021 was so small that he decided not to buy insurance at all this year.

“I’ve had it all these years, and it couldn’t get no worse than last year,” he said of the FSA insurance. “And I could have done without it. I did do without it.”

It came late, too. He applied for coverage immediately after the flood, and the check arrived about a month ago. He received a much larger relief check from the state around the same time, despite that application not becoming available until this spring, when the General Assembly allocated $50 million for assistance to farmers impacted by Fred.

“Ag funding always comes in little gullywashers,” said Haywood County Extension Director Sally Dixon. “It will be sunny, there’s not a penny in sight for anything farm-related, and then it rains suddenly. There’s all this money, and then it dries right back up.”

A WHOLE NEW SET OF WORRIES

Mere hours passed between the water’s sharp rise and equally sharp retreat last August, but the impacts to farmers could linger for years, Dixon said.

“It’s always a foolhardy measure to think that floods are a one-and-done kind of thing,” she said. “A lot of the aftereffects, particularly agriculturally, that happen from a flood, it takes years to figure that out and truly be back to 100%.”

The extension center has fielded “lots of calls” from people who are struggling with contaminated soil, eroded topsoil and out-ofwhack nutrient and pH balances, said Dixon. All year, Griffith has been battling tenacious weeds in his pepper field, likely the result of seeds spread by the flood. Jay Johnson, vice president of operations at Haywood County distributor J.W. Tomato Co., said one of the

“You can’t control the weather; you can’t control the price. You can do the best job you can do at your farm, and those other two things can make you or break you.”

—Gary Griffith

growers he works with had to bring in “many, many dump truck loads” of dirt to replace topsoil scoured away by the floodwaters.

Neither Johnson nor Dixon said they know of any farmers who quit the business following Fred’s ravages — but both said that 2022 could prove just as challenging as last year. Farmers are grappling with astronomic price increases to fertilizer, diesel fuel, labor and nearly every other input.

“A lot of them have chosen to cut back and scale their operations back a little bit,” said Johnson. “They’re always gambling when they plant a crop, but this is like the variables are

stacked against them.”

While the harvest season is only halfway over, Johnson said his company is about 15% below normal in the volume of tomatoes it’s purchased so far this year.

“I think over the next two to three months we’ll really see what the effect of that has been,” Dixon said of the price increases. “Once we get closer to the end of the growing season, we’re going to see more people realizing that they’ve taken a loss, or that they’ve barely broken even because everything’s gotten so expensive this year.”

“Flooding is something that you worry about when it’s happening, but crazy high fertilizer prices they worry about all the way through,” Johnson added.

Griffith said his costs have “at least doubled” this year — but not his revenue.

“We’re still on five-year-ago prices,” he said.

FOCUSED FORWARD

Griffith will never forget the thick muck and the sharp, earthy scent of green peppers that cov-

ered his fields the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021. But he also can’t wallow in the memory. Time moves on, and so does the weather.

“I already had hailstorm at the beginning of the season. We had to replant this whole field,” he said.

A week later, on May 27, another flood came through. It wasn’t nearly as devastating as the one resulting from Fred, and it didn’t affect Griffith. But closer to Canton, other farmers suffered.

Weathering the storm has always been part of farming, but the storms are coming fast and furious. Griffith worries for his daughter and son-in-law, but he also worries for all the young people who long to become farmers but can’t make the numbers work.

“When you love something that much, you work through the bad times because you know the good times are going to come,” said Dixon. “We’re all hoping that prices go down for next year. Hoping.”

“If you’re not comfortable with gambling,” said Griffith, “farming’s not the right thing to do.”

This May, farmers in Canton dealt with another wave of flooding, albeit less devastating than that caused by Fred.

JAY JOHNSON PHOTO

“Flooding is something that you worry about when it’s happening, but crazy high fertilizer prices [farmers] worry about all the way through.”

— Jay Johnson

Affordable housing in Haywood gets a boost

Haywood County was recently awarded another substantial grant to help address the affordable housing crisis, but the way the county plans to use the grant means its impact will be felt far into the future.

“After 20-plus years of talking about affordable housing, I feel like we’ve won the lottery with all the resources that’s coming into the county,” said Patsy Davis, executive director of Mountain Projects.

Last spring, an affordable housing grant opportunity was announced by Dogwood Health Trust, a nonprofit that administers the proceeds from the Mission Hospital sale on behalf of 18 western counties.

In 2021, Dogwood released the results of a housing needs assessment, which showed Haywood County with a deficit of 1,459 homes. Coincidentally, data from the Haywood TDA from July of this year documents a total of 1,648 whole-house short-term rentals available on websites like Airbnb.

In April, a meeting took place between housing providers like Mountain Projects, Pathways, Habitat for Humanity and the Waynesville Housing Authority and all five local governments.

Funders, including Dogwood, the Southwestern Commission’s HOME program and the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency, were also in attendance.

“It was the first time that we’d had, in my tenure here, a summit where we had all the

people in the room to discuss our affordable housing needs,” said David Francis, community and economic development director. “From that came ideas [on] how we pursued this grant for the county to be able to use American Rescue Plan funds for the grant.”

The grant award totals $1,112,500, which will be matched by the county from American Rescue Plan Act funds. The Town of Maggie Valley will also chip in $112,500, for a total of $2,225,000.

Of that, $375,000 will be used to pave the roads at Bethel Village, a subdivision in Jonathan Creek owned by Mountain Projects. Paving the roads would open up opportunities for USDA loans, which offer generous terms.

Another $334,000 will go to Pathways for the development of transitional housing for individuals and families.

“That means that we’ll be able to provide temporary residence for up to 24 months for a family, two men and two women,” said Mandy Haithcox, executive director of Pathways. “That will continue to include continued intensive case management and wraparound services to be able to help these folks further stabilize their lives.”

Commission Chair Kevin Ensley thanked Davis and Haithcox for their work on the affordable housing issue.

“If people saw how the county was without Pathways, I think they would be shocked,” he said. “You all have helped hundreds of people get into housing. Literally hundreds of people.”

The remaining $1,515,602 will be dedicated to a more permanent resource that will make it easier for nonprofits and local governments to address the affordable housing crisis in the future.

“When we were discussing this matter,” Francis continued, “one of the things I didn’t want to see happen is we have funding that comes through here and then we turn around five years later going, ‘We don’t have any more funding.’”

Francis went on to announce the creation of a revolving loan fund, presaged by a recent $200,000 donation to Mountain Projects for just such a purpose.

The fund won’t engage in retail lending or be available to individuals. It will, however, make loans to qualified nonprofits like Mountain Projects, Pathways and Habitat for Humanity, as well as local governments and faith-based organizations.

Francis said that right now, Habitat for Humanity can only build one or two houses a year, but with the availability of revolving fund loans, they might build as many as four or five a year. The Waynesville Housing Authority, Francis said, might also use the funds to develop more rental properties.

Transitions Happen. Let's Talk.

“After 20-plus years of talking about affordable housing, I feel like we’ve won the lottery with all the resources that’s coming into the county.”

— Patsy Davis, Mountain Projects

Hopping right along

Waynesville brewery expands Frog Level footprint, opens Asheville location

Grabbing the last empty picnic table behind Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville one recent afternoon, Frank Bonomo gazed along the nearby Richland Creek, only to shift his attention to the buzz of people, conversation, and live music swirling around the vast patio area.

“We’re trying to redevelop Frog Level to be a very exciting, dynamic place — where new businesses can thrive, where people can come and enjoy the area,” Bonomo said. “It’s not just a location, but a zone — friendly to the riverfront, friendly to downtown. This could be another part of Waynesville that gets utilized.”

Bonomo and his business partners in CCB Beverage, LLC — which includes his wife, Julia, and another couple, Morgan and Travis Crisp — have been making some big moves over the last few years in the Frog Level District, with many dormant buildings now finding a new lease on life.

To bring one up to speed on everything transpiring in the district, Frog Level Brewing was sold and changed hands to CCB Beverage on March 17, 2020, the exact day of the quarantine and shut down due to the pandemic.

“We were in our lawyer’s office signing the documents to purchase the brewery just as the

governor was saying everything was going to shut down,” Frank said in a humble tone. “We couldn’t even get together to have the party to celebrate the purchase.”

And although it might have seemed ominous to enter the food/beverage industry at that uncertain moment, the transition did just the opposite — it fueled not only the fire within CCB to move ahead with its plans, the large outdoor space behind the brewery became a refuge for folks looking to interact with others, all while adhering to social distancing guidelines and protocols.

“Frog Level has always been about the people

— this is a community brewery, and that’s how we’ve always seen it,” Morgan said. “We wanted to create a space where people could come after work, bring their kids, this family atmosphere that welcomes everybody.”

Before Frog Level Brewing was purchased, Morgan was already at the helm of 7 Clans Brewing, one of the only female owned/operated breweries in Western North Carolina. An enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Morgan looks at craft ales as a vehicle to bring forth and share the proud heritage of her ancestors.

“Seven Clans is keeping on doing what we’re doing — we’re telling our story through craft beer, and also trying to incorporate Indigenous ingredients in our products,” Morgan said. “Agriculture is really important for Cherokee women, and it’s important for me to incorporate that into our beer-making.”

With Frog Level Brewing under the CCB banner, 7 Clans now had a home base to concoct and sell its products. The sister businesses are thriving and continually growing, with constant expansions of its brew house equipment, riverside patio, and taproom, which includes an onsite restaurant.

To note, CCB has a long-term lease on the current brewery building, as well as the former thrift store and soup kitchen next door. The soup kitchen was recently renovated and reopened as The Green Room, a multi-purpose event space that’s already hosted several gatherings since it launched this past summer.

With the massive thrift store structure between the brewery and The Green Room, the wheels are in motion to turn the property into a larger multi-purpose event space — the hope to eventually bring in live music, an artisan market, and, perhaps, create another food/beverage component.

Looking down toward the corner of Commerce and Depot streets in Frog Level, CCB has also purchased a handful on buildings in the district, including the structures from the other side of the alley of The Green Room all the way to the stoplight, and the former Furniture Village building next to the railroad tracks.

“Everything is going to grow organically,” Morgan said. “It’s part of business model, to listen to what our customers tell us what they want, what they like, and what ideas we can incorporate into these properties.”

And lastly, at least for the time being, CCB recently put roots down in Buncombe County, with its new 7 Clans taproom on Sweeten Creek Road in Asheville, a picturesque property that will also serve Frog Level products. Even with everything going on from both sides of the Haywood/Buncombe line, the focus for CCB remains on the continued development of the Frog Level District.

“If you look at Asheville, it has the River Arts District. We feel like Frog Level could be just like the [RAD],” Frank said. “Everything we’re doing here is a team effort, whether it’s my business partners or our great staff — it’s a team effort that is this catalyst for change.”

Julia Bonomo and Morgan Crisp, coowners of 7 Clans Brewing, one of the only female-owned breweries of its kind in Western North Carolina.

GARRET K. WOODWARD PHOTO

Located at 66 Sweeten Creek Road in Asheville, 7 Clans Brewing recently opened its Buncombe County taproom which will also pour ales from Frog Level Brewing, its sister operation. DONATED PHOTO

Going to Washington Christmas tree from Haywood selected to adorn the U.S. Capitol

Sometime around 1940, a red spruce seedling pushed above the forest floor in southern Haywood County. Its roots drank from the moist soil, and each year the tree grew taller and stronger.

The nearby logging road was eventually paved, widened, and christened N.C. 215. Increasing numbers of cars climbed it each year, especially after the ridgetop road just uphill, the Blue Ridge Parkway, was completed. As the decades ticked by, the number of cars roaring through the tree’s neighborhood reached into the millions. Eventually, their drivers could see the treetop from the road, towering over the rest of the trees in the forest.

In November 2002 the tree — named Ruby

— began its own journey along the road over which it has long stood sentry. In a ceremony Wednesday, Nov. 2, it was cut down and loaded into a trailer destined for Washington, D.C., where Ruby will soon decorate the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building as this year’s Capitol Christmas Tree.

“Over this past year, we combed the mountainsides of the Pisgah and the Nantahala National Forest looking for just the right tree, and we think Ruby is just that,” Lorie Stroup, U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Coordinator, said during the harvest ceremony. “Along with that we conducted over 100 conservation education outreach events across the state, and our work will continue for years to come with our red

spruce restoration efforts.”

Each year, one of the country’s national forests supplies the towering tree that serves as a national symbol of celebration on the West Lawn. For the first time since 1998 — and the third time in history — that tree comes from the Pisgah-Nantahala National Forest.

It’s also the third time in history that a red spruce will adorn the West Lawn, and the first time a red spruce will come from the PisgahNantahala.

“The red spruce is an iconic tree species in Southern Appalachia,” Pisgah-Nantahala Forest Supervisor James Melonas said during the ceremony.

The tree was harvested by Rodney Smith, a 30-year employee of the Uwharrie National Forest with support from Dover Crane and Bartlett Tree Experts. JAMES EDWARD MILLS/CHOOSE OUTDOORS PHOTOS

Coche Tiger tells the Cherokee legend of the evergreen trees as EBCI Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources Joey Owle looks on.

After the harvest ceremony, Ruby makes her way down N.C. 215, ultimately destined for Washington, D.C.

‘FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS’

Accompanying Ruby to D.C. was 80 smaller trees from Christmas tree farms across the state, many of which were delivered to military families at the Andrews Air Force Base. The Forest Service doubled its goal of 6,000 donated, handmade ornaments to decorate the trees. After Christmas is over, Ruby’s wood will be used to make musical instruments.

When it was time to light the tree for the Christmas season, fourth-grader Coche Tiger, a student at New Kituwah Academy in Cherokee, did the honors. He was chosen through an application process that included a question about the environment and his Cherokee culture.

Though he’s only 9, Tiger is well aware of the ancient stories his people tell about how the trees that cover our mountains came to be. During the Nov. 2 ceremony, he told the Cherokee legend of the evergreen tree. In the story, when they were created all the trees and animals were asked to stay awake for seven nights, fasting and praying, but as each night passed, a few more fall asleep. By the seventh night, only a few remained awake. The animals that persevered to the end were given the power to see and go about in the dark. The trees — spruce, pine, cedar, holly hemlock and laurel — were given the ability to keep their leaves all year and to provide medicine to the Cherokee people.

“Therefore, these trees are sacred and used for medicine by the Cherokee people,” Tiger said.

Towering to 78 feet, Ruby had about 12 inches of height for each year of life. Story, history, and the passing of time are all bound up in the presence of a large, old tree like her. But to plant a spruce seed is to believe in the future.

“When you plant forests and when you plant trees, you’re planting those for generations behind you,” said Kelly Holdbrooks, executive director of the Southern Highlands Reserve. The reserve specializes in cultivating rare plants, including red spruce. “I think that’s the message I want people to understand. When you’re doing this kind of work, you’re doing it for future generations.”

“Over this past year, we combed the mountainsides of the Pisgah and the Nantahala National Forest looking for just the right tree, and we think Ruby is just that.”

— Lorie Stroup, U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Coordinator

reclaim your weekend | visitnc.com/parks

Blinded by the light

WNC clogger becomes social media sensation

Editor’s note: It’s likely that no one did more for marketing Haywood County in 2022 than Zeb Ross, a local clogger whose dancing went viral and has been watched by millions. His rise to fame culminated with a cameo appearance at the 2022 Country Music Awards show.

Before March 2022, 28-year-old Zeb Ross didn’t have a social media presence. No Instagram, TikTok or Twitter. He did have a personal Facebook account for a little while, but got rid of it when he was a teenager because, according to Ross, “there’s good and bad with social media, but it can also be a distraction.”

But, after March 2022, that all changed for Ross and his extended family. You see, as a featured member of the J Creek Cloggers — a Western North Carolina traditional Appalachian dance troupe — a short video clip of Ross dancing hit social media platforms with the Haywood County resident quickly going viral with hundreds of millions of views of his fancy footwork.

“Folks started contacting my wife and mom saying, ‘[Zeb] has gone viral on TikTok,’” Ross recalled. “And, at first, I thought, ‘Had I got sick or a virus?’”

So, just how viral has the slick moves of Zeb Ross gotten? Earlier this year,Ross’ newly created TikTok account (@zebbysgothappyfeet) has 22,500 followers and a combined total of over 438 million views throughout his presence on the global platform.

To that, Ross’ mom, Kim, who is now his business manager, also recently launched an Instagram account for the J Creek Cloggers. The group now has some 207,000 followers, all alongside several video clips garnering millions of views (the highest clocking in at 17.5 million).

And in November, Ross made a cameo at the Country Music Awards Show, dancing to “Rocky Top” while Peyton Manning and Luke Bryan watched.

Sitting at the kitchen table of the Ross’ home way up on a mountain ridge overlooking the Jonathan Creek area alongside U.S. 276, Zeb, his wife Ashley, and Kim will be the first to tell you how shocked they are by all the attention and intense spotlight now placed on their family.

Kim’s smart phone on the table beeps incessantly, this constant barrage of social media notifications, emails and phone calls. Folks from across the country and around the world wanting a moment of Zeb’s time. Requests for music video cameos and festival appearances, including offers for the J Creek Cloggers to perform coming in from as far away as British Columbia

and New Zealand.

“We’re receiving 3,000 messages every day — everyone wants to either meet Zeb, book the group to perform or simply to show their appreciation for the joy he’s brought to so many people,” Kim smiled.

The “Zeb Ross phenomenon” began this past spring at Darnell Farms in Bryson City. While the J Creek Cloggers were performing onstage, a random person in the crowd asked Zeb if he could film the group dancing. Zeb didn’t think anything of it and granted permission to do so.

That person in the audience filming was Jason Jordan (@heavydutymusic). Once Jordan posted the short clip of Zeb’s rubber ankle footwork overdubbed with the 1994 hit reggae song “Here Comes the Hotstepper” (Ini Kamoze) on TikTok, it immediately went viral, taking in 5.9 million views.

Soon, other TikTok accounts and digital creators were sharing the video with a variety of popular songs overdubbed. From there, nationally-known rappers, country musicians and social media influencers have been pounding on the door. Country star Brian Kelley (of Florida Georgia Line fame) and juggernaut soul singer Leon Bridges have also reached out to personally meet the Ross clan.

“Brian flew us down to Daytona, [Florida], to see one of his solo shows,” Kim said. “When we went down there, he wanted Zeb and I onstage to perform with him. So, we did — no rehearsal, just get up there and dance [in front of thousands].”

Formed 13 years ago by Kim, the J Creek Cloggers are well-known and regarded around the event circuit of Western North Carolina. At its core, Kim’s goal was to not only preserve the

Clogger and social media sensation Zeb Ross doing what he does best — dancing.

fading dance style, but also aim to perpetuate it, in hopes future generations will grab onto the tradition before it disappears altogether.

“The team is 30 members, with the age range 6 to 76,” Kim chuckled. “My dream has always been to spread the love of clogging. But, what’s happened now with Zeb has gone far beyond my wildest expectations.”

As a little kid, a big chunk of Zeb’s life revolved around clogging, whether watching it or participating as a J Creek member. As he got older, his own unique style emerged, this seamless blend of traditional Appalachian techniques mixed with contemporary dance and hip-hop ingredients.

And, each weekend, the J Creek Cloggers would hit the road and perform several showcases throughout the region, only to circle back home and head to work on Monday. Zeb is a powder press operator in Weaverville, a position he still holds, even with the unintended social media stardom.

“At first, I wasn’t going to tell [my co-workers] because I know they’d give me a hard time. But, they eventually found out for themselves and still gave me a hard time,” Zeb grinned. “My boss thinks it’s wild and they’re all happy for me.”

If you ask Ashley her thoughts on “all this,” she’ll tell you she isn’t surprised. That genuine charm and talent within her husband — now seen the planet over — was the same magnetism that first attracted her to Zeb those many years ago at a dance hall in Knoxville, Tennessee.

“I just loved the way he danced. I had never heard of clogging until I saw Zeb that night. I thought he was very talented,” Ashley reminisced. “We danced together, went out to eat together, and the rest is history. Everybody is falling in love with the exact same person I saw back in 2017. Zeb has a very happy disposition. He’s this kindhearted person — the world needs more people like him.”

This many months later, Kim’s phone keeps ringing. Viewership and follower numbers continue to rise with each clip posted to social media. Sponsorships are also coming in (Liberty overalls, Lite boots, etc.). And, there’s already a full calendar for the J Creek Cloggers headlong far into 2023.

But, what remains is this modern-day digital fascination with the beloved Southern Appalachian art form that is clogging, where one figure stands at the center of this whirlwind, this human being radiating sincere gratitude and appreciation for whatever may come his way — Zeb Ross.

“Whenever I’m dancing, I’m not really thinking about anything — it’s pure bliss for me,” Zeb said. “You’re performing and looking around. You’re seeing the smiles. You’re seeing the clapping. You don’t have to worry about what chores you have to do back home or whatever might be bothering you in life. Everything gets pushed to the side — you’re just enjoying the moment.”

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Haywood County offers a unique quality of life. Its mix of small-town attributes, cultural amenities and outdoor recreation makes it a truly special place to call home or to visit. And it is surrounded by many special places that attract travelers from across the country. Here are few of the highlights that are either in Haywood or nearby:

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s Cataloochee Valley

History and nature intersect in this picturesque meadow, a long, narrow valley cradled by mountains on all sides that was once a thriving pioneer community that was part of Haywood County.

An elk herd has been re-introduced into the park and calls the valley home. Elk were once common here but were overhunted in the early 1800s to extinction in the eastern states. Elk can be seen on most days, and the best time for viewing is in the early mornings or the early evenings.

Cataloochee Valley is also home to intact farmhouses, churches, schoolhouse and cemeteries that can be toured by car and short walks. There are several hiking trails that start in the valley, and it is also a favored location for trout anglers.

From Maggie Valley, take U.S. 276 north toward I-40, but just before the interstate, turn left on Cove Creek Road, which leads up and over the Cataloochee Divide and winds down into the valley. Beware the narrow, gravel road.

Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Along with knowledgeable rangers who can help you plan your time in the park, fabulous exhibits will take you back in time among the early settlers and Cherokee who called these mountains home.

The visitor center chronicles the culture and history of the Smokies and is also a great starting point for anyone visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Located on U.S. 441 at the North Carolina entrance to the park, just outside of Cherokee and a few hundred yards from the southern terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway. 828.497.1904.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is perhaps America’s most scenic byway, a ribbon of sweeping curves and stunning vistas stretching 469 miles from Cherokee to Virginia that stretches from one end of Haywood County to another.

It’s hard to get lost on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It only goes in two directions — north or south. Short, wooden posts along the edge of the road mark off each mile, making it easy to know exactly where you are. The milemarker number is listed for the recommended stops on the Parkway and should be easy to find by watching the mileposts.

Shining Rock Wilderness

One of the original components of the Wilderness System created in September 1964, it is the largest designated wilderness area in North Carolina and is located entirely in Haywood County.

Purchase Knob

The Appalachian Highland Science Learning Center at Purchase Knob is on 535 acres in Haywood County that is contiguous with the rest of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The site includes a historic cabin, two buildings which contain offices, laboratory space, a 50-person classroom, and housing for up to eight visiting scientists. The center averages about 5,000 visiting scientists, students and teachers each year. Everyday, the staff and program participants thank the family for their generous gift. Beautiful spot for hiking with great views.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls have long had an almost spiritual appeal among humans, and there are plenty in and around Haywood County. Whether one is an avid outdoorsman or an occasional hiker, there is something special about making a gorgeous waterfall the destination for a hike.

There are hundreds of waterfalls in Western North Carolina, and there is a fairly extensive list and an interactive map on The Smoky Mountain News website at www.smokymountainnews.com (navigate to the Outdoors section to find it).

The following waterfalls are just a few of the more popular near Haywood:

Midnight Hole

There’s not much of a waterfall at Midnight Hole, but if you’re looking for a good place to jump in the water, this is it. Midnight Hole is very popular and crowded at times. Swimmers can jump off the rocks into the pool. The water is cold and crystal clear and feels wonderful after the hike on a hot, muggy afternoon. Take I-40 Exit 451 in Tennessee. It will be the first exit after you cross the state line. Stay left after crossing the Pigeon River and follow the road 2 miles. You’ll drive by a power plant and community park. You’ll come to a stop sign at an intersection. Go straight through the intersection and enter the Big Creek section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Follow the gravel road 0.8 miles to a picnic area and campground entrance.

From the parking area, walk back up the road. You’ll see a sign on the left for the trailhead. The hike to Midnight Hole is about 1.5 miles. Stay on the main path and the hole is on the left. The hike is easy. Horses and their riders also frequent the trail.

Soco Falls

Soco Falls is the closest large fall to Maggie Valley. Two creeks flow over steep rock cascades at a right angle from each other. There’s a wooden platform that faces the higher of the two falls. The other falls is nearly impossible to see face on without going down to the base of the falls. There’s a really steep dirt incline that goes down there without a lot to hold on to. I’ve never gotten the guts to slide down – especially with my camera.

From Maggie Valley, drive north on U.S. 19. You’ll pass under the Blue Ridge Parkway. After passing the Blue Ridge Parkway, drive 1.4 miles to a pull off on the left.

A short, steep path goes down between the guardrails. Follow the trail, which leads to a wooden platform.

Waterfall on West Fork Pigeon River

The waterfall on West Fork Pigeon River runs under an old stone bridge on N.C. 215. Although this waterfall isn’t one to plan a trip around, if you’re driving on N.C. 215, it’s worth a stop. You can take shots from the road and the bridge but watch out for traffic.

The waterfall is under a bridge on N.C. 215, 4.2 miles from where N.C. 215 crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s 13.6 miles south of where N.C. 215 intersects with U.S. 276.

Fishing

The waterways in the Smoky Mountains attract trout fishermen from around the world, and it’s no wonder. Whether you’re in search of native brook trout or trophy-sized browns, you can find just the right river to make it happen.

Western North Carolina recently hosted the World Fly Fishing championships, and the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians recently opened in nearby Bryson City.

In Haywood County, places like Cataloochee Valley or the Pisgah National Forest offer miles of backcountry streams. Easily accessible streams like Richland Creek and Jonathan Creek are also popular for those without the time or inclination to venture into the backcountry.

Whitewater Nantahala

The Nantahala River is a world-class paddling adventure. No experience is necessary to climb on board a raft with an outfitter and take a guided trip down the pristine rapids of the Nanty.

The Nantahala has been called everyman’s river. It is an 8-mile run of basically Class II rapids (19 of them) with Class III Nantahala Falls waiting at the end. There is a slalom course on the river at the Nantahala Outdoor Center as well as “the wave” for playboaters. It is a wonderful river for rafting and beginner kayakers. Several outfitters on the river allow raft rentals without guides, and they’ll also shuttle you to the put-in.

Pigeon

The Pigeon River, which flows through Haywood County, boasts Class IV and Class III rapids along with easygoing sections for a varied whitewater experience with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a backdrop. The Pigeon has scheduled releases from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, providing a shorter but exciting trip. A number of outfitters are located in Hartford, Tennessee.

Midnight Hole. GSMNP PHOTO

Haywood on Two Wheels

With nearly 50 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway and plenty of scenic highways and rural routes, Haywood County is a paradise for cyclists. Check out some of our favorites routes below (go to www.visitncsmokies.com to download more specific ride information).

Sunburst Climb

A fun ride with little climbing as you pedal deep into the woods west of Canton. Be sure to stop for a few pictures at Lake Logan, an Episcopal Retreat Center where cabins can be rented. If camping is your pleasure, take note as you turn around at Sunburst Recreation Area. On your return, you will pass by numerous farms as you loop back via Lovejoy Road and all too soon find yourself back at Canton’s Rec Park. Ride begins at the Canton Recreation Park on Penland Street/N.C. 215 in Canton. Parking, sheltered picnic tables, and restrooms available. (29.4 miles, for advanced beginner and above)

Hyder Mountain Loop

Head into the country on a well-shouldered road, passing by the Pigeon River. Once over Interstate 40 continue down the river valley until it is time to climb Hyder Mountain. Most of the climb is conquered in the first half-mile with views that will reward your effort. Soon enough you’re on the twisting descent to another crossing of the Pigeon River. Then it’s just a left turn and a right turn back to your bike carrier. Ride begins at Long’s Chapel United Methodist Church on Old Clyde Road (N.C. 209) in Lake Junaluska, N.C. Park in the gravel area next to the Fire Department across from the church. (9.9 miles, for intermediate and above)

Coleman Mountain-Panther Creek Loop

A wonderful bicycle ride loop in the northwestern end of the county. Begin at Sorrell’s Store, a “Bike Outpost,” in Jonathan Valley. Turn right out of the parking lot and after you pass Creekwood RV Park, look for Coleman ‘Mountain Road on your right. Turn there and climb over Coleman Mountain before descending to the Pigeon River. After a long descent look for Iron Duff Road on your left and turn there. Iron Duff Road eventually turns into Rabbit Skin Road, which you’ll follow until you re-emerge in Jonathan Valley This ride is very rural and there is rarely much traffic until you descend back into Jonathan Valley and can enjoy the wide valley view on the way back to Sorrell’s Store. Ride begins at Sorrell’s Marathon gas station and store, which welcomes riders, at 3796 Jonathan Creek Road (also U.S. 276).

HAYWOOD TDA PHOTO

Being in good hands

Haywood County has health care covered

Haywood County citizens have plenty of options when it comes to health care.

Haywood Regional Medical Center is a Duke LifePoint Hospital with 169 beds whose services include seven operating rooms, advanced home care, behavioral health, critical care, diabetes education, hospice and palliative care, occupational health, orthopedics, pulmonary rehabilitation, sleep disorders, spine care services and women’s care center.

The hospital has 930 employees and 150 physicians.

Also, Mission Health System has a medical office building in Haywood County that offers primary care, specialty care, imaging and laboratory services.

It also offers tele-medicine that Mission says could save patients a trip to Asheville for even complex care. The 30,000 square-foot building is on 23 acres on Hospital Drive, adjacent to the company's existing outpatient center.

Health Care Facilities

■ Urgent Care — Canton Exit 31 off I-40, Canton 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 7 Days a week 828.648.0282

■ Urgent Care — West 556 Hazelwood Avenue, Waynesville

8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 7 Days a week 828.452.8890

■ Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center — 54,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility with indoor track, gymnasium, weight machines and equipment, steam and sauna. Day passes available. 828.452.8080

■ Mercy Urgent Care 124 Frazier St., Suite 6, Waynesville in the Publix Plaza

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 828.210.2121

www.mercyurgentcare.org

Learning from the best

“Success for today, preparation for tomorrow and learning for a lifetime” is the mission statement for and sums up the vision of Haywood County Schools. With schools far smaller than the state average, the system is able to offer its 7,200 students a great deal of personal attention.

In terms of student performance, Haywood traditionally ranks in the top 10 to 20 percent of all the districts in North Carolina on test score performance.

Haywood County has 15 public schools and one public charter school.

Public schools

■ Bethel Elementary

■ Bethel Middle School

■ Canton Middle School

■ Central Haywood High

■ Clyde Elementary

■ Haywood Early College

■ Hazelwood Elementary

■ Jonathan Valley Elementary

■ Junaluska Elementary

■ Meadowbrook Elementary

■ North Canton Elementary

■ Pisgah High School

■ Riverbend Elementary

■ Tuscola High School

■ Waynesville Middle School

Charter schools

■ Shining Rock Classical Academy

Higher Learning

The universities and community colleges serving Haywood County and all of Western North Carolina are as good as they get, attracting a plethora of local and outof-state students and distinguished professors and faculty members. Those students and faculty add to the diverse, vibrant culture of the region, while the colleges also provide a source of highly skilled employees.

■ Haywood Community College offers more than 30 academic programs and a wide variety of continuing education courses for job training and personal interest. About 3,600 students took courses during the most recent academic year in one of these areas. Departments include arts, sciences and natural resources, business and industry, and health and human services. HCC also offers a unique production crafts program that draws aspiring artists from throughout the country and is also well known for its forestry and wildlife biology departments. HCC’s Foundation offers free tuition to all qualifying graduates of Haywood County’s public schools. HCC offers online learning and continuing education opportunities, including training in healthcare, public safety, quilting, upholstery, and creative arts. HCC’s Small Business Center serves our community business owners with seminars and counseling. For more information, visit www.haywood.edu.

■ Southwestern Community College provides coursework in arts, sciences, college transfer, career technologies and health services. Over 3.300 students enter more than 60 academic programs, while approximately 6,000 annually participate in the school’s ongoing continuation programs. www.southwesterncc.edu.

■ Western Carolina University, part of the University of North Carolina System, serves more than 11,600 students, including 10,000 undergraduates and 1,600 enrolled in graduate programs. Offering more than 115 undergraduate majors and concentrations, WCU features a nationally recognized teacher education program, a criminal justice program used as a model across the state, and the nation’s first accredited four-year emergency medical care program. www.wcu.edu.

■ UNC Asheville is the only dedicated liberal arts institution in the 17-institution University of North Carolina System. Perennially selected as one of the best colleges in the country for the price, the university focuses on critical thinking by taking students outside of their chosen fields of study. With over 30 different majors, the D-1 campus employs 214 full-time faculty members, which provides its 3,600 undergraduate students with an average class size of 19. www.unca.edu.

■ Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College has an enrollment of more than 11,000 students. Established as a trade school, it has 39 career programs and classes that are transferable to any university in the UNC system. www.abtech.edu.

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Learning and Networking Through Ongoing Events

Over the years, the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce has initiated and sustained many gatherings, events and educational summits to benefit our members. Some have been created with the goal of networking while others were developed to enhance education and leadership. Below we include the date of inception and description of several popular ongoing events.

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

Each month, the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce recognizes the accomplishments, hard work and leadership of local businesses. The Business and Economic Development Committee reviews nominations on an annual, monthly or quarterly basis. Winners are chosen by members of the committee and recognized in the Chamber e-newsletter, the membership directory, Chamber social media and the Smoky Mountain News. The plaque is presented each month at Issues & Eggs.

ISSUES & EGGS

This longstanding event is held the first Wednesday of each month. Members are invited to enjoy breakfast while learning and networking. Each event hosts a guest speaker featuring a broad spectrum of topics and issues related to Haywood County. Speakers range from the CEO of Haywood Regional Medical Center to individuals from the NC Department of Commerce to political candidates. During these gatherings, Businesses of the Month are awarded and upcoming events are announced.

WOMEN ENLIGHTENED

Originally known as ‘Women in Business’, this subsidiary Chamber group changed their moniker several years ago to ‘Women Enlightened…Get Connected’, which truly represents the varied skills, creativity and experiences of the individuals in this network. Women Enlightened hosts periodic gatherings to educate, motivate and connect. The new platform offers a wider focus on guest speakers with a deeper concentration on their topic, brand and story. In terms of guest speakers, the goal is to encourage relevance and inspiration over title and resume.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF HAYWOOD COUNTY

An affiliate organization of the Chamber of Commerce, Young Professionals of Haywood (YPG) engages young professionals through the core values of professional development, networking and community service to make Haywood County a better place to live, work and play. Young professionals between the ages of 22 and 40 (and the young at heart) are invited to join this group by participating in

monthly networking, community service and professional development. YPH events have led to personal and professional relationships that last a lifetime.

CHAMBERCONNECTS

While generating leads through in-depth knowledge of your peer group members, it is also a peer advisory group, helping you overcome your unique business challenges. Each professional participant brings a unique set of problem-solving skills honed over time within their specific industry. The adaption of ideas and resources across those diverse industries creates innovative solutions. It’s the power of many minds focused on a single issue.

Only one business from each sector is represented, so there is no competition within the group allowing for a candid discussion of issues and opportunities. Each group is limited to 25 Chamber members and requires a minimum of five members to start a new group.

There are currently two ChamberConnects groups with meetings on the third Tuesday of each month from 8 a.m. to and noon. Contact Jean at jdilley@haywoodchamber.com to determine if there is available space in your preferred time slot.

2021-2022 Businesses of the Month

NOVEMBER 2021 BROPHY & ASSOCIATES

Brophy & Associates Consulting, LLC specializes in Tax Preparation and Accounting. The firm offers a broad range of services for business owners, executives, and independent professionals. Their team provides outstanding service to its clients because of its dedication to three underlying principles: professionalism, responsiveness, and quality. This firm is an active member of chamber networking opportunities and our ambassador committee.

DECEMBER 2021

LEGALSHIELD BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

LegalShield gives you the ability to talk to a lawyer on any personal legal matter without worrying about high hourly costs. Under the protection of LegalShield, you or your family can live your lives worry-free. LegalShield has representatives attend Chamber of Commerce events and committees. The participation of this company in our organization has been incredibly rewarding.

FEBRUARY 2022 MIKE’S HEATING & COOLING

Mike’s Heating & Cooling is customer-focused heating and air-conditioning company originally started in 1990. Located in Candler, NC, Mike’s Heating & Cooling employs highly trained individuals who aim to make the company the best service company in Buncombe County and surrounding areas. This company has emphasized expanding to Haywood County and volunteers their time and staff to our annual Tailgating on the Greens golf tournament.

MARCH 2022

MERCY URGENT CARE

Mercy Urgent Care provides high-quality, affordable, and convenient medical care for nonlife-threatening illnesses and injuries. Mercy’s eight urgent care centers are staffed with licensed, certified, and highly trained professionals, ensuring you receive above-quality care. Their doctors, nurses, and support staff provide more than 60,000 service visits annually. Mercy

The Haywood Chamber of Commerce

Brophy & Associates

Mike’s Heating & Cooling

Mercy Urgent Care

Legalshield Business Solutions

Urgent Care supports the Chamber of Commerce by participating in events, sponsorships, and networking opportunities.

APRIL 2022 HAYWOOD FAMILY EYE

Since 1955, Haywood Family Eye Care has served as a dedicated and caring provider of quality vision services to Waynesville and surrounding communities. As a patient, one can expect friendly and attentive care from an experienced team of eye care professionals. Their team leverages advanced diagnostic technology to provide modern eye care services, including comprehensive eye exams, vision correction, and more.

MAY 2022

AFFAIRS OF THE HEART

Affairs of the Heart has been a staple on Main Street for decades. Inside you’ll find fun, eclectic gifts with a wide variety of items to choose from. Visitors return year after year for flags, mailbox covers, puzzles, jewelry, cards, candles, and novelty items, just to name a few. Owner, Patricia Miller, has been a longtime merchant and loyal supporter of the Haywood Chamber. Her veteran experience and leadership is much appreciated by all.

JUNE 2022

HAYWOOD COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

The Haywood County TDA is the legislatively mandated entity responsible for collecting occupancy taxes for all paid accommodations in the county, and determines the allocation of those dollars to drive overnight visitation. The county has a long tradition of tourism marketing, having been one of the first counties in North Carolina to authorize the creation of a TDA to invest in countywide destination promotion. It has enjoyed a

Affairs of the Heart

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

reputation for decades as a mountain retreat set among some of the highest mountain peaks in eastern North America and two national parks.

AUGUST 2022 JEWELER’S WORKBENCH

The Jeweler’s Workbench specializes in unique handcrafted jewelry, limited edition watches, kinetic art, and other artistic gifts and treasures. Featuring over 50 artists from the Great Smoky Mountain region and country, we offer on-site repairs and custom design and work. Colleen and Jim Davis took ownership of the business in 2017 and have put a lot of time and energy into creating a successful small business in the heart of Downtown Waynesville.

SEPTEMBER 2022 MOUNTAIN CREDIT UNION

Mountain Credit Union is a full-service financial institution with branch offices throughout Western North Carolina. MCU’s charter allows the company to serve anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Swain, and Transylvania Counties of North Carolina. The comprehensive array of products and services, as well as convenient lo-

cations throughout Western North Carolina, allow Mountain Credit Union to meet all financial needs.

OCTOBER 2022

MAGGIE VALLEY WELLNESS CENTER

Maggie Valley Wellness Center is located in beautiful Maggie Valley, just 5 miles from Waynesville and 30 miles west of Asheville, and the business is owned and operated by Candra Smith. Candra’s education in massage began with the 675-hour program at the Asheville School of Massage and Yoga. It was there she was able to utilize her knowledge of yoga not only for her own self-care regimen but also to share the postures and breathing techniques to benefit the needs of her clients. She has since studied Reflexology, Craniosacral Therapy, Prenatal Massage, Advanced Deep Tissue techniques, and Panchakarma treatments.  She has been practicing in the Waynesville/Maggie Valley area since 2007.

The Haywood Chamber of Commerce

Mountain Credit Union

Maggie Valley Wellness

Haywood Family Eye Care

Jeweler’s Workbench

Haywood County TDA

HVO provides vocational training to individuals with disabilities and challenges to help them live more independent, successful, and productive lives through the use of grants and the proceeds from our production of medical devices.

Haywood County with scenic byways, backcountry roads and meandering trails is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Historic towns. Thriving businesses. Great schools. Stop in for a while or stay. You’re always welcome in Haywood County.

ADVERTISING & MEDIA

Allison Outdoor Advertising 35 Outdoor Dr. Sylva, NC 28779

(828) 586-2737

kristie@allisonoutdoor.com www.allisonoutdoor.com

Clark Communications

2 Westside Dr. Asheville, NC 28806

(828) 254-1432

ddiehn@oneclearchoice.com www.oneclearchoice.com

Here 2 There Marketing

188 Chipping Sparrow Ln Waynesville, NC 28786

(813) 363-4277

George@Here2ThereMarketing.com www.here2theremarketing.com

Hornsby Creative Group, LLC

1195 Plott Creek Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 407-0487

hornsbycreative@gmail.com

www.hornsbycreativegroup.com

Rapid River Magazine

85 North Main St. Canton, NC 28716

(828) 646-0071

rick@rapidrivermagazine.com www.RapidRiverMagazine.com

Skycountry Broadcasting, Inc- WPTL PO Box 909 Canton, NC 28716

(828) 648-3576 admin@wptlradio.net www.wptlradio.net/

Smoky Mountain Living Magazine

144 Montgomery St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-2251

ads@smokymountainnews.com www.smliv.com

Smoky Mountain News

144 Montgomery St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-4251

info@smokymountainnews.com

www.smokymountainnews.com

The Mountaineer

220 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-0661

jkey@themountaineer.com www.themountaineer.com

The Print Haus, Inc.

641 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-8622

chris@theprinthaus.com www.theprinthaus.com

Vicinitus, LLC dba Positively Haywood PO Box 1152 Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 476-6055

caroladams@vicinitus.com www.vicinitus.com

WNC Social Media Buzz, Inc 50 S Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 421-2807

Lorelei.garnes@wncsocialmediabuzz.com www.wncsocialmediabuzz.com

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Adamas Entertainment

(828) 450-8724

adamasbilling@gmail.com

Cataloochee Ski Area

1080 Ski Lodge Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-0285

information@cataloochee.com www.cataloochee.com

Cataloochee Valley Tours, Inc

49 Fancy Ln., Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 450-7985

tourguide@cataloocheevalleytours.com

www.cataloocheevalleytours.com

Cold Mountain Art Collective

33 Adams St., Canton, NC 28716

(828) 492-1333

Coldmountainartcollective@gmail.com

Coldmountainartcollective.com

Elite Action Gaming, LLC 8716 US Hwy 74 West, Whittier, NC 28789

info@eliteactiongaming.com www.EliteActionGaming.com

Grandview Lodge & Wedding Venue 466 Lickstone Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-5212

gvlbb@yahoo.com

www.GrandviewLodgeNC.com

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

225 Everett St. Bryson City, NC 28713 (800) 872-4681

marketing@gsmr.com

www.gsmr.com

Membership Directory

HART Theatre

250 Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6322

Candice@harttheatre.org www.harttheatre.org

Haywood County Arts Council

86 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0593 director@haywoodarts.org www.haywoodarts.org

Inspired Art Ministry

180 Lenoir Circle Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-9197 Charspaintings@msn.com www.iamclasses.webs.com

Reflections at the Pond managed by White Laurel Design, Co 355 Johnson Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 342-2451 reflectionspond@gmail.com www.reflectionspond.com

Rolling Thunder River Company

10160 Highway 19 West Bryson City, NC 28713 (828) 488-2030 rafting@rollingthunderriverco.com www.RollingThunderRiverCo.com

ROOM 1902

c/o The Sellers Agency Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 788-4272 philferguson@thesellersagency.com www.ROOM1902.com

Santa's Land 571 Wolfetown Rd. Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-9191 santaslandmiami@yahoo.com www.santaslandnc.net

Shelton House History, Heritage, and Crafts - The Museum of NC Handicrafts 49 Shelton St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1551 info@sheltonhouse.org www.sheltonhouse.org

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts 1028 Georgia Rd. Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 524-1598

Info@smokymountainarts.com www.smokymountainarts.com

Smoky Mountain Event Center, Inc 758 Crabtree Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 400-1704 managerhcfg@gmail.com www.smokymountaineventcenter.org

Smoky Mountain Folk Festival 58 Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1688 properties@haywoodrentalsnc.com www.smokymountainfolkfestival.com

Spinfire Entertainment, LLC 40 Wayward Path Candler, NC 28715 (828) 400-2736 info@spinfiredj.com www.spinfiredj.com

The 37 Venue 37 Church St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (760) 474-8334 events@the37venue.com www.the37venue.com

Twigs and Leaves Gallery 98 N Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-1940 gallery@twigsandleaves.com www.twigsandleaves.com

Wells Events & Reception Center 33 Wells Events Way Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 476-5070 info@WellsEventsCenter.com www.wellseventscenter.com

AUTOMOTIVE & MARINE

Autobell Car Wash 525 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-0322 www.autobell.com

Autostar Family Dealerships 280 Hyatt Creek Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2841

rick.chandler@autostarusa.com www.autostarusa.com

Ken Wilson Ford 769 Champion Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-2313

kenwilsonford@kwford.com www.kwford.com

The Haywood Chamber of Commerce

NAPA Auto Parts 101 Park St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 586-6569

www.napaautopartsofwnc.com

Smoky Mountain Steel Horses, LLC

82 Locust Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-7276

info@smsh.co

www.smokymountainsteelhorses.com

Sparksmith 60 Communications Dr Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 508-0917

support@sparksmith.com www.sparksmith.com

Taylor Motor Co. 524 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5111

alanjones@taylormotorco.com www.taylormotorco.com

Triangle Automotive Repair 1404 Brown Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9226 triauto1404@yahoo.com

Waynesville Tire 65 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-5387

Waynesvilletire@gmail.com www.waynesvilletire.com

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Haywood Community College Small Business Center

144 Industrial Park Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 627-4512

acswanger2@haywood.edu www.SBC.Haywood.edu

RonSpeaking.Com PO Box 155 Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 508-0951

Ron@RonSpeaking.com

Smart Processing, LLC

8 Glenn Willow Dr. Ste. 6 Arden, NC 28704

(828) 225-1887

creece@smartprocessing.com www.smartprocessing.com

Star Speaker Academy 93 White Dogwood Lane Lake Junaluska, NC 28745

(571) 228-0351

linda@starspeakeracademy.com www.starspeakeracademy.com

COMPUTERS & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Balsam West Fiber NET, LLC

35 Bonnie Lane Sylva, NC 28779

(828) 339-2900

hhylton@balsamwest.net. www.balsamwest.net

C.I.C. Technologies, Inc

34 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-4414

jparker@cictech.net

www.cictech.net

Sharp Business Systems

51 Thompson St. Asheville, NC 28303 8284171302

www.nc.sharp-sbs.com

T-Mobile

259 Barber Blvd Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 579-4440

hector.calles@t-mobile.com

T-Mobile.com

Vistanet Telecommunications, Inc. 240 Erwin Hills Rd. Asheville, NC 28806 (828) 348-5366 arobel@vistanet.co www.vistanet.co

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT & CONTRACTORS

Ace Construction Enterprises PO Box 244 Canton, NC 28716 (828) 549-8223

contactus@aceconstructioninc.com www.aceconstructioninc.com

Adamas Construction

1461 Saunooke Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 450-8724 adamasbilling@gmail.com

Best Built Inc.

4651 Crabtree Mountain Rd. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 280-0415

bestbuiltinc@outlook.com www.bestbuiltcustoms.com

Clark & Leatherwood, Inc.

179 Industrial Park Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-4500

rleatherwood@clarkandleatherwood.com

www.clarkandleatherwood.com

Haywood Builders Supply OpCo LLC

100 Charles St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6051

dwingate@haywoodbuilders.com www.haywoodbuilders.com

RCF Inc.

560 Hazelwood Ave. Hazelwood, NC 28738

(828) 456-9570

rcfconst@bellsouth.net

Wester Builders, LLC

149 Bountiful Ln. Waynesville NC 28785 Waynesville, NC 28785

(850) 508-3625

stan@westerbuilders.com

White Oak Partnership

1947 Lee Rd. Winter Park, FL 32789 (407) 694-8689

ardaman@fishbacklaw.com

www.WhiteOakMountain.net

ENGINEERING

Civil Design Concepts P.O. Box 5432 Asheville, NC 28813 (828) 452-4410 patrick@cdcgo.com www.cdcgo.com

J.M. Teague Engineering and Planning

1155 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8383 daveg@jmteagueengineering.com www.jmteagueengineering.com

McGill Associates

55 Broad St. Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 252-0575 mark.cathey@mcgillassociates.com mcgillassociates.com

FINANCE & INSURANCE

Allstate Insurance - Georgi Insurance Group, Inc. 283 N Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2815 olgageorgi2@allstate.com agents.allstate.comolga-georgiwaynesville-nc.html

Apply4Medical2Day, LLC 1523 S Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9950 gibsonc@apply4medical2day.com www.apply4medical2day.com

Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group 387 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 828-263-6625 latishaperkins@atlanticbay.com www.LatishaPerkins.com

Brophy & Associates Consulting, LLC 367 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 558-4300 robbin@brophytax.com www.brophytax.com

Champion Credit Union - Canton 3 Academy St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-1515 ccu@championcu.com www.championcu.com

Champion Credit Union - Waynesville 311 Walnut St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6268 ccu@championcu.com www.championcu.com

Community First Bank 37 Church St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 788-2702 jbrant@c1stbank.com www.C1stBank.com

Edward Jones - Emily W. McCurry 101 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (800) 259-1956 emily.mccurry@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.comemily-mccurry

Edward Jones - Jack Bishop III 209 Walnut St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (866) 522-7792

jack.bishopIII@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones - Jeremy Phillips 385 N. Haywood St., Ste 2 Waynesville, NC 28786 (888) 219-4332

Jeremy.Phillips@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.comen_us/fa/index.ht ml&cirn=510838

Equity Resources, Inc. 707 N West St, Ste 104 (NC Corporate Office) Raleigh, NC 27603 deber@callequity.net callequitymortgages.comdave-eber

Executive Performance and Solutions, Inc. 114 Staymon Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 dean.russell@eosworldwide.com www.eosworldwide.comdean-russell

First Citizens Bank 194 Walnut St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-6310

laura.tragesser@firstcitizens.com www.firstcitizens.com

Heritage Finance Company Inc. 695 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 357-5121 Heritagewaynesville@gmail.com Heritagefinanceco.com

HomeTrust Bank - Clyde 8583 Carolina Boulevard Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 627-9621 cody.robinson@htb.com www.htb.com

HomeTrust BankWaynesville 800 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-7330

patsy.rogers@hometrustbanking.com www.hometrustbanking.com

Independent Accounting Services, Inc. 21 Allison Acres Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3190 tinaprice88@hotmail.com

Kemper Health 5347 Sunset Blvd Lexington, NC 29072 (866) 342-3620 bwise@kemper.com Kemperhealth.com

LN Davis Insurance Agency 143 N Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2876

lndavis@lndavis.com www.lndavis.com

Lynn Sylvester, CPA, PA 619 South Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6505

lynn@lascpa-nc.com www.lascpa-nc.com

Merrill Lynch - Keller Ferrell

1 North Pack Square, 2nd Floor Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 258-4420

gerald_keller@ml.com

www.fa.ml.comthekellergroup

Merrill Lynch - Susan Sorrells, CFP®, CDFA® , CRPC®

1 North Pack Square, 2nd Floor Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 258-4452

susan_sorrells@ml.com

www.fa.ml.comsusan_sorrells

Mountain Credit Union 1700 Russ Ave Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-2216

www.mountaincu.org

NC Farm Bureau-Haywood 1520 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-1425

paula.barton@ncfbins.com

www.ncfbins.compaula.barton

New York Life 385 N Haywood St. WAYNESVILLE, NC 28786

(828) 456-6697

ctbennett00@ft.newyorklife.com

www.newyorklife.comagent/ctbennett00

Overbay Insurance Services 219 Walnut St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-4699

jon@overbayinsurance.com

www.overbayinsurance.com

PMC Insurance Agency

178 Academy St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-2632

kstockton@pmcinsagency.com

www.pattonmorganclark.com

Sheila Gahagan, CPA

229 Penland St. Clyde, NC 28721

(828) 627-1040

sheila@gahagancpa.com

www.gahagancpa.com

Sheppard Insurance Group PO Box 1068 Canton, NC 28716

(828) 627-2826

kathy@sheppardinsurancegroup.com

www.SheppardInsuranceGroup.com

Stanberry Insurance Agency, Inc.

406 Walnut St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-1341

kstanberry@stanberry-ins.com www.stanberry-ins.com

State Employees' Credit Union Waynesville Branch Clyde, NC 28721

(828) 452-3570

waynesville@ncsecu.org www.ncsecu.org

State FarmAngie Franklin

1908 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-8200

Angie@AngieFranklin.com

www.angiefranklin.com

State Farm- Chad McMahon

97 Lee St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-0567

chad@chadlmcmahon.com www.chadlmcmahon.com

The Pressley Group Allstate InsuranceJeremy Pressley 418 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1898

jpressley@allstate.com

www.agents.allstate.comjeremy-pressleywaynesville-nc.html

Truist 135 N Main St WAYNESVILLE, NC 28786 (828) 558-3051 truist.com

Underwood, Dills & Associates, PC 154 North Main St., STE 7 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5370 dills@udcpas.net

United Community Bank of Waynesville 165 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0307 www.ucbi.com

Wealth Transition Finance, A Member of Advisory Services Network, LLC 37 Church St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 734-4868

wtforbes@wtf-asn.com

Wells Fargo Advisors - Larry East, CFP® Senior Vice President-Investments 52 Walnut St., STE 6 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-7407

larry.east@wellsfargoadvisors.com www.larryeast.com

Wells Fargo Bank 339 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-2300

karen.m.morrow@wellsfargo.com www.wellsfargo.com

WNC Community Credit Union 27 Kent Lane Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-1840

rcrawford@wncccu.org www.wncccu.org

GOVERNMENT, EDUCATION & INDIVIDUALS

Haywood Community College

185 Freedlander Dr. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 627-4516

sywhite@haywood.edu

www.haywood.edu

Haywood County Government 215 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-6625

dbfrancis@haywoodnc.net

www.haywoodnc.net

Haywood County Schools Board of Education

1233 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-2400

nolte@haywood.k12.nc.us www.haywood.k12.nc.us

Haywood County Tourism Development Authority

1110 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 944-0761

lynn@visitncsmokies.com www.visitncsmokies.com

Lenoir-Rhyne University Center for Graduate Studies of Asheville 36 Montford Ave. Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 407-4263 michael.dempsey@lr.edu www.lr.edu/asheville

Shining Rock Classical Academy

1023 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 476-5150 jmorgan@shiningrock.org www.srca.teamcfa.school

Town of Clyde 8437 Carolina Boulevard Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 627-2566 joy.garland@townofclyde.com www.townofclyde.com

Town of Maggie Valley 3987 Soco Rd Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-0866 vbest@maggievalleync.gov www.maggievalley.comtown

Town of Waynesville

16 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2491 rhites@waynesvillenc.gov www.waynesvillenc.gov

HEALTH CARE

BenchMark Physical Therapy

275 Barber Boulevard Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6409 creno@benchmarkpt.com benchmark.urpt.comlocations/waynesville

Blue Mountain Chiropractic, Dr. Mike Hogan 1510 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9555 mrihogan@gmail.com www.bluemtnchiro.com

Blue Ridge Health 220 5th Ave. East Asheville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6372 cthompson@brchs.com www.brchs.com

Carolina Breathing Solutions

755 South Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1919 breathing1@bellsouth.net www.carolinabreathingsolutions.com

Family Circle Chiropractic, PLLC 627 North Main St., STE 2 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 522-4144

drzeke@familycirclechiropractic.com www.familycirclechiropractic.com

Four Season, The Care You Trust 571 S. Allen Rd. Flat Rock, NC 28731 (828) 692-6178 info@fourseasonscfl.org www.fourseasonscfl.org

Great Beginnings Pediatric Dental Specialist & Great Smiles Orthodontic Specialist 50 Bowman Dr. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 454-9156

waynesville@greatbeginningspedo.com www.begreatdental.com

Haywood Family Eye Care 1604 Sulphur Springs Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8361 tp@haywoodfamilyeye.com www.haywoodfamilyeye.com

Haywood Lodge & Retirement Center 251 Shelton St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8365 aaron@haywoodlodge.com www.haywoodlodge.com

Haywood Regional Medical Center 262 Leroy George Dr. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 456-7311 kim.jackson@haymed.org www.myhaywoodregional.com

John M. Highsmith, DDS 78 Nelson St. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 627-9282 office@drhighsmith.com www.drhighsmith.com

Kim's Pharmacy 479 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2313 kimsrx@gmail.com www.kimsrx.com

Maggie Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation 75 Fisher Loop Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-4326

kmathis@maximushg.com www.maggievalleyrehab.com

Mark's Pharmacy 97 Kent Lane Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6191

christynkirk@gmail.com www.sylvadrugstore.com

Mercy Urgent Care 120 Frazier St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 210-8333 www.mercyurgentcare.org

Michael D. Gillespie, DDS Family Dentistry 611 S. Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-9007

drgillespie@drgillespie.com www.drgillespie.com

Mountain Eye Associates, PLLC

486 Hospital Dr. Clyde, NC 28721

(828) 452-5816

ajk@mountaineyeassociates.com www.mountaineye.org

Movement for Life Physical Therapy

13 Haywood Office Park Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 452-1306 eric.yarrington@movementforlife.com www.movementforlife.com

Silver Bluff Village

100 Silver Bluff Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-2044 lleatherwood@silverbluffvillage.com www.silverbluffvillage.com

Smoky Mountain Health & Rehabilitation Center

1349 Crabtree Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 454-9260 smk18-admin@smokymountaincare.com www.smokymountaincare.com

Smoky Mountain Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy

270 North Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 550-3923 mary.curtis@smsmpt.com www.smsmpt.com

Southeastern Sports Medicine 35 Valley View Terrace Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-9816 heather.underwood@unchealth.unc.edu www.southeasternsportsmedicine.com

Wenzel Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Skin Care Center 61-A Haywood Park Dr. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 550-3344 drwenzel@beautifulface4ever.com www.beautifulface4ever.com

Yurko Dental Excellence 419 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 316-1988 yde1@yurkodentalexcellence.net www.waynesvilledentist.com

HOME & GARDEN

B. H. Graning Landscapes, Inc. 18 N. Main St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 492-0837 info@bhglandscapes.com www.bhglandscapes.com

Badcock & More Home Furniture 356 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1522 cole.lawson@badcock.com www.badcock.com

Boyd's Landscaping & Hydroseeding

143 Boyd Farm Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 926-8888 trees@boydmountain.com www.boydmountainchristmastreefarm.com

Carolina Furniture Concepts

121 Eagles Nest Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-9293

sandeepgupta@123cfc.com www.carolinafurnitureconcepts.com

David's Home Entertainment

2566 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5534

daro@Davidshomeentertainment.com www.davidshomeentertainment.com

Greene Brothers Well & Pump

61 New Clyde Highway Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-3170

gbwp@bellsouth.net www.greenebrothersdrilling.com

Holland Services of Haywood County

228 Wild Rose Lane Canton, NC 28716 (828) 421-0487 hollandservicesofhc@gmail.com

Laurel Crest Landscapes, Inc.

52 Sugar Loaf Rd. Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 316-7862 laurelcrestnc@yahoo.com www.sylvalandscapers.com

Massie Furniture Co Inc.

45 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3311

jeff@massiefurniture.net

Mountain View Landscaping & Design, Inc.

182 Richland St., STE 11 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 734-8643

mountainviewlandscaping@yahoo.com www.mountainviewlandscapewnc.com

The Design Gallery Interiors 90 Depot St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9122

thedesigngalleryinfo@gmail.com www.thedesigngallerywnc.com

The Hot Tub Store 20 Swanger Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 926-8484

thehottubstorewnc@gmail.com www.thetubstore.com

LEGAL

Cannon Law, PC 1433 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-4800

bcannon@cannonlawpc.net www.cannonlawpc.net

Drake Software, LLC 188 Depot St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 634-6693

joi.frederick@drakesoftware.com

James Weaver Kirkpatrick III, PA 37 Branner Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0801

kirk@jwklaw.net www.kirkpartricklawfirm.com

Jim Moore Attorney at Law, PLLC 160 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6373 gina@moorelaw4u.com www.moorelaw4u.com

Joel R. Weaver, PA 41 Woodland Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-0880 joel@jrwpa.com www.jrwpa.com

LegalShield Business Solutions 54 Azalea Rd. Arden, NC 28704 (828) 606-6442 identitytheftmonitoring@gmail.com jordan64.wearelegalshield.com

Melrose Law, PLLC 576 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-3141 info@mountainverdict.com www.mountainverdict.com

Ray, Bumgarner, Kingshill and Associates 385 North Haywood St., STE 3 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-4734 markcpa@rbk-cpa.com www.rbk-cpa.com

Smathers & Smathers Attorneys At Law 118 Main St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-8240 pat@smatherslaw.com zeb@smatherslaw.com

Wenzel & Wenzel, PLLC 166 Branner Ave Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-9099 office@wenzellawfirm.com www.wenzellawfirm.com

LODGING & TRAVEL

Andon-Reid Inn Bed and Breakfast 92 Daisey Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-3089 info@andonreidinn.com www.andonreidinn.com

Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn 130 Shiloh Trail Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-4402 managerbwsmi@outlook.com www.bwsmokymountaininn.com

Boyd Mountain Log Cabins

445 Boyd Farm Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 926-1575 info@boydmountain.com www.boydmountain.com

Brookside Mountain Mist Inn & Cottages

142 Country Club Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-6880 info@brooksidemountainmistbb.com www.brooksidemountainmistbb.com

Carolina Vacations, Inc. 1984 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-0871 management@CarolinaVacations.com www.CarolinaVacations.com

Cataloochee Ranch Resort, LLC 119 Ranch Dr. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-1401

info@cataloocheeranch.com www.cataloocheeranch.com

Creekside Inn - A Bed & Breakfast 459 Rockcliffe Lane Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 246-7795

info@creeksideinnbnb.com www.creeksideinnbnb.com

Creekwood Farm RV Park 4696 Jonathan Creek Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 926-7977

office@creekwoodfarmrv.com www.creekwoodfarmrv.com

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort 777 Casino Dr. Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-7777

janhyatt@cherokee.harrahs.com www.harrahscherokee.com

Hearth and Home Inn 3376 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 926-1845 reservations@hearthandhomeinn.com www.hearthandhomeinn.com

Holiday Inn AshevilleBiltmore West 435 Smokey Park Highway Asheville, NC 28806 (828) 665-2161 oterrell@virtelle.com. www.ihg.comholidayinn/hotels/us/en/ash eville/avlpp/hoteldetail

Jonathan Creek Inn 4324 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-1232

jeff@jonathancreekinn.com www.jonathancreekinn.com

Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center 759 N. Lakeshore Dr. Lake Junaluska, NC (800) 222-4930 communications@lakejunaluska.com lakejunaluska.com

Oak Hill on Love Lane

Bed & Breakfast 224 Love Lane Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-7037

stay@oakhillonlovelane.com www.oakhillonlovelane.com

Oak Park Inn 196 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-5328

oakparkinn@aol.com www.oakparkinn-waynesville.com

Parkway Inn 2093 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 926-1841 parkwayinn20@gmail.com

Pisgah Inn Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 408 Candler, NC 28715 (828) 235-8228

sjohnston@pisgahinn.com www.pisgahinn.com

The Swag 2300 Swag Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785

(828) 926-0430

will@theswag.com

www.theswag.com

The Yellow House On Plott Creek Rd. 89 Oakview Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0991

info@theyellowhouse.com

www.theyellowhouse.com

MANUFACTURING, PRODUCTION & WHOLESALE

Abundant Labs LLC

289 Silkwood Dr. Canton, NC 28786 (828) 492-1115

info@abundantlabs.com www.abundantlabs.com

AmeriPride Linen & Uniform Services

398 Great Oak Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-2384

kevin.lowery@ameripride.com www.ameripride.com

APAC TN Inc. - Harrison Division

P.O. Box 6390 Knoxville, TN 37914 (828) 631-2836

gpfarmer@harrisoncc.com www.harrisoncc.com

Champion Janitorial Supply 17 Piney Park Rd. Asheville, NC 28806 (828) 225-1075

www.champion-supply.com

Pactiv Evergreen

175 Main St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 646-2318

tammy.mcdowell@pactivevergreen.com pactivevergreen.com

Premier Magnesia, LLC

75 Giles Place Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-4784

twiliams@premiermagnesia.com www.premiermagnesia.com

Sonoco Plastics

340 Howell Mill Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-4774

laurie.davis@sonoco.com www.sonoco.com

Wholesale Supply Group

2438 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 564-8212

waynesville@wsginc.com www.wholesalesupply.us

NON-PROFITS

Affordable Homeownership Foundation, Inc.

112 Virginia Ave Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 553-1863

jason@ahf.today

www.ahf.today

American Red Cross serving Western North Carolina

100 Edgewood Rd.

Asheville, NC 28804

(828) 258-3888

mariana.vimbela@redcross.org

www.redcross.org/local/northcarolina/greater-carolinas/about-us/locati ons/western-north-carolina.html

Big Brothers Big Sisters of WNC, Inc PO Box 431 Waynesville, NC 28786 828-273-3601

haywood@bbbswnc.org

www.bbbswnc.org

Dogwood Health Trust

890 Hendersonville Rd., Suite 300 Asheville, NC 28803 (828) 771-6710

support@dht.org

www.dogwoodhealthtrust.org

Downtown Waynesville Association

9 South Main St. STE 200 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3517

bethgilmore@waynesvillenc.gov

www.downtownwaynesville.com

Feline Urgent Rescue PO Box 1352 Waynesville, NC 28786 (844) 888-2287

lasanborn16@gmail.com

Folkmoot USA

112 Virginia Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2997

evan@folkmoot.org

www.folkmootusa.org

Friends of the Smokies PO Box 3179 Asheville, NC 28802 (828) 452-0720

info@friendsofthesmokies.org

www.friendsofthesmokies.org

Goodwill Career Center of Waynesville 160 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9233

mwhitmire@goodwillnwnc.org

www.goodwillnwnc.org

Great Smoky Mountains Association PO Box 130 Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738 (865) 436-7318

mailorder@gsmassoc.org

www.smokiesinformation.org

Haywood County SCORE 112 Virginia Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 734-3566

lynn.heinrichs@scorevolunteer.org

www.asheville.score.org

Haywood Habitat for Humanity ReStore

331 Walnut St., STE 1 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9135

restore@haywoodhabitat.org

www.haywoodhabitat.org

Haywood Pathways Center 179 Hemlock St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-0332

mandy@haywoodpathways.org

www.haywoodpathwayscenter.org

Haywood Vocational Opportunities, Inc. 172 Riverbend St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-4455 Ext 1101 agaddis@hvoinc.com www.hvoinc.com

Historic Frog Level Merchants Association

P.O. Box 1575 Waynesville, NC 28786 (727) 580-1842 mel@mcinsightsinc.com www.historicfroglevel.com

KARE, Inc.

1159 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8995 jschroer@karehouse.org www.karehouse.org

Maggie Valley Area Chamber of Commerce

2781 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-1686 www.maggievalley.org

Mountain Projects Community Action 2177 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1447 pdavis@mountainprojects.org www.mountainprojects.org

Mountain View Housing, Inc 116 Patrick Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-3565 mtnviewhousing@gmail.com

NC Works Career Center-Haywood County

1170 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6061 lisa.morris@commerce.nc.gov next.ncworks.gov/location/ncworkscareer-center-haywood-county

Reach of Haywood County 627 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-7898 reachofhaywood@att.net www.reachofhaywood.org

Sarge's Animal Rescue Foundation, Inc. 256 Industrial Park Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9050 fred.strohm@sarges.org www.sarges.org

The Arc of Haywood County 407 Welch St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1980 sbrown@arcofhaywood.org www.arcofhaywood.org

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina 4 Vanderbilt Park Dr. Asheville, NC 28803 (828) 254-4960 info@cfwnc.org www.cfwnc.org

The Salvation Army 290 Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-7111 david.cope@uss.salvationarmy.org www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/waynesville

United Way of Haywood County 81 Elmwood Way Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 356-2832

cwillett@uwhaywood.org www.uwhaywood.org

Voices In The Laurel P.O.Box 1581 · Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 (828) 564-3310

voicesinthelaurel@gmail.com www.voicesinthelaurel.org

PERSONAL SERVICES & CARE

42 Rue Salon 79 Ed Green Rd., Clyde, NC (828) 702-0375

keturahrb@yahoo.com www.42ruesalon.com

CBT Counseling Centers 166 Banner Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 350-1177

kjoyner@behaviortherapist.com www.cbtcounselingcenters.com

Eagle's Nest Haircutters, LLC 61 Eagle's Nest Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 rich@eaglesnestbarbers.com waynesvillebarbershop.com

Elizabeth Lynne Noonan, PLLC 28 Walnut St., Suite 5 Waynesville, NC 28786 dr.lynnenoonan@gmail.com

Garrett Hillcrest Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations 460 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8656

chadwell.hamiel@dignitymemorial.com www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com

Maggie Valley Wellness Center 461 Moody Farm Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 944-0288

mvalleywellness@gmail.com maggievalleywellness.com

Wells Funeral Homes Inc. & Cremation Services of Canton 3715 Asheville Hwy., Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-2371

rjacobson@plcorp.com www.wellsfuneralhome.com

Wells Funeral Homes Inc. & Cremation Services of Waynesville 296 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3535

rjacobson@plcorp.com

www.wellsfuneralhome.com

PETS & VETERINARY

Balsam Animal Hospital PA 1628 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1868

dawgtor80@gmail.com www.balsamvet.com

Canton Animal Hospital 74 Radio Hill Rd., Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-7800

cahpracticemanager@yahoo.com www.cantonah.com

Junaluska Animal Hospital/Haywood Animal Emergency

3248 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-1478

jahpracticemanager@gmail.com www.junaluskaah.com

Maple Tree Veterinary Hospital and Dog Camp

1855 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5211

kbirthright@mapletreevet.com www.mapletreevet.com

The Dog House-Canton 20 Main Streeet Canton, NC 28716 (828) 492-0469 thedoghousepapertown@gmail.com thedoghousewaynesville.com

The Dog House-Waynesville 310 North Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3753 thedoghousewaynesville@yahoo.com www.thedoghousewaynesville.com

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Haywood REALTOR Association 695 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5096 lisa.brown@carolinahome.com www.hcbor.org

Kiwanis Club of Waynesville

P.O. Box 815 Waynesville, NC 28786 828-734-9003 martipeithman@aol.com k03727.site.kiwanis.org

PUBLIC UTILITIES & ENVIRONMENT

Blossman Propane Gas

2161 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 926-1537 waynesville@blossmangas.com www.blossmangas.com

Brigman Electric Sales and Service, LLC

107 BARBER HILL DR. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6601 brigmanelec@gmail.com

Consolidated Waste Services

P.O. Box 8468 Asheville, NC 28814 (828) 645-0660

swelch@cws-nc.com

www.consolidatedwasteservices.com

Duke Energy

555-A Brevard Rd. Asheville, NC 28806 (800) 777-9898

www.duke-energy.com

Haywood Electric Membership Corporation

376 Grindstone Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-2281

Mitch.Bearden@haywoodemc.com

www.haywoodemc.com

NEO Corporation 289 Silkwood Dr Canton, NC 28716 (828) 456-4332

info@neocorporation www.neocorporation.com

PEAK Energy 2707 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-9035

info@peakenergyonline.com www.peakenergyonline.com

PSNC Energy

15 Overland Industrial Boulevard Asheville, NC 28806 (828) 670-3535

jroper@scana.com www.psncenergy.com

S&S Waste Services 1001 Upper Crabtree Rd. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 646-8420 sswasteservices@yahoo.com www.sswasteservices.com

REAL ESTATE, MOVING & STORAGE

America's Home Place 335 NP&L Loop · Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 349-0990

rshook@americahomeplace.com

www.americashomeplace.comCustomHome-Builders-In/Franklin

Balsam Mountain Preserve 81 Preserve Rd. Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 631-1040

info@balsammountain.com

www.balsammountainpreserve.com

Bethel Self Storage 3695 Pisgah Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-5456

diannetatham@yahoo.com

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Heritage 1986 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-5200

mre@bhgheritage.com

www.BHGHeritage.com

Allen Tate | Beverly-Hanks, REALTORS® 74 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5809

briancagle@beverly-hanks.com

www.beverly-hanks.com

Blue Mountain Realty Group, Inc. 314 Charles St. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 565-0229

hello@bluemountainrealtygroup.com

Buffalo Creek Vacations

13 Caboose Way Clyde, NC 28721

(828) 550-0960

bcdepot828@gmail.com

www.buffalocreekvacationsnc.com

Chance Mountain Properties

784 South Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 712-6801

contactus@chancemountainproperties.com

www.chancemountainproperties

Coldwell Banker

20 Town Mountain Rd. Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 400-8647 george.mills@coldwellbanker.com www.coldwellbankerking.com

Coldwell Banker King

36 S Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 398-5940 tk@cbking.com www.cbKing.com

Dawn Clayton - Allen Tate | BeverlyHanks, REALTORS®

224 Skyridge Dr. Clyde, NC 28721 (828) 778-2656 dawnclayton@beverly-hanks.com

dwellAVL

24 Arlington St. Asheville, NC 28801 zach@dwellAVL.com dwellAVL.comzpenland.com

Elk Country Realty

212 Campbell Creek Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-0434 JimBlyth@iCloud.com www.elkcountryrealty.com

Gaddis Properties

221 West Oakland Park Boulevard Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311 (954) 565-8900 pstamos@gaddiscapital.com

Haywood Rentals

58 Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1688 properties@haywoodrentals.com www.haywoodrentalsnc.com

Haywood Secure Storage, Inc.

7066 Old Clyde Rd. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-0147 mike@haywoodsecure.com www.haywoodsecure.com

Keller Williams

Great Smokies Realty 434 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 926-5155 klrw973@kw.com www.kellerwilliamswaynesville.com

McGovern Property Management and Real Estate Sales

284 B North Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1519 mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com www.shamrock13.com

Palisades at Plott Creek 20 Palisades Ln Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 392-7364 palisadesatPCMGR@southwoodrealty.com www.southwoodrealty.comcommunity/pal isades-at-plott-creek/

Pillar Property Group 86 Asheland Ave. Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 550-0812 nataliemalis@kw.com www.pillarpropertyasheville.com

Premier Sotheby's International Realty 10 Brook St. Asheville, NC 28803 (828) 277-3238 beatrix.masotti@premiersir.com premiersothebysrealty.com

Premier Vacation Rentals 2787 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-6025

RE/MAX - Lucas and Case

Real Estate

71. N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 828-508-4527

RE/MAX Executive

71 N Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 400-9029 jameyers@charter.net www.remax-waynesvillenc.com

Rob Roland Realty Waynesville, NC 28786 33robroland@gmail.com

Select Homes Property Management Company 56 Montgomery St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6111 rick@selecthomeswnc.com www.selecthomeswnc.com

Smoky Mountain Home Builders Association PO Box 162 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-0221 info@smokymountainhba.org www.smokymountainhba.org

Southeastern Development & Acquisition, LLC 102 Lochview Dr. Cary, NC 27518 (919) 608-1739 sedev@nc.rr.com

VantagePointe Homes @ Balsam Mountain 17 Wilkinson Pass Lane Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-5505

leasing@balsammountainapartments.com www.balsammountainapartments.com

WNC Real Estate Store 3676 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 944-0664 tr@wncforme.com wncforeme.com

RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS

Long's Chapel UMC 175 Old Clyde Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 456-3993 churchadmin@longschapel.com www.longschapel.com

The Creative Thought Center 449-D Pigeon St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-9697

waynesvillectc@gmail.com www.creativethoughtcenter.org

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL SERVICES

RNM Engineers 390 Main St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 492-0677 sdenton@rnm-engineers.com www.rnm-engineers.com

A to Z Signs & Engraving

1516 Sulphur Springs Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-0983 jacob@AtoZSigns.net

Ledbetter's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. 7 Liner St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 452-4328 ledheatac@aol.com www.ledbettersheatingandair.com

M B HAYNES Corporation 187 Deaverview Rd. Asheville, NC 28806 (828) 254-6141 thyatt@mbhaynes.com www.mbhaynes.com

Mike's Heating and Cooling 329 Dogwood Rd. Candler, NC 28715 (828) 665-4343 kim@mikesheatingandcooling.com www.mikesheatingandcooling.com

Mike's Property Detailing 134 Brookside Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 476-6407 mikespropertydetailing@gmail.com mikespropertydetailing.com

Mountain Top Appliance Service

220 Amherst Way Canton, NC 28716 (828) 492-0780 mta2003cad@gmail.com www.mountaintopappliance.us

Pisgah Pest Control, Inc.

125 N. Lakeshore Dr. Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 (828) 377-6052 finance@pisgahpestcontrol.com www.pisgahpestcontrol.com

Presley-Barker Inspections LLC

129 Teague Loop Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 283-0030 presleybarkerinspections@gmail.com presleybarkerinspections.com

Service Master of Haywood County 2803 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 926-0887

smhayco@charter.net

www.servicemasterrestore.comservicemas ter-of-haywood-county/

Terminix Service, Inc.

3241 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-3729

waynesville@trustterminix.com www.trustterminix.com

The Superior Finish, Inc.

145 Broadview Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8668

superiorfinish@bellsouth.net

www.superiorfinishinteriors.com

Ward Plumbing, Heating & Air

548 Mill St., Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 586-9273

info@wardph.com

www.wardph.com

White & Williams Co., Inc

514 Swannanoa River Rd. Asheville, NC 28805

(828) 296-0267

dhumphreys@wwhvac.com

www.whiteandwilliams.net

WNC Pressure Washing and Roof Cleaning

Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 331-8118

wncroofcleaning@yahoo.com

www.wncpressurewashing.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGES

Amici's Italian Restaurant 454 Hazelwood Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6475

maryanne@amicisnc.com

www.facebook.comamicisrestaurant

Angelo's Family Pizza, Inc. 166 Walnut St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-1886

crytalMH27@gmail.com

www.angelospizzanc.com

BearWaters Brewing Company 101 Park St. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 237-4200

kevin@bearwatersbrewing.com

www.bwbrewing.com

Bearwaters Brewing Company Creekside 4352 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 944-0009

art@bwbrewing.com

www.bearwatersbrewing.com

Birchwood Hall Southern Kitchen 111 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6111

rcsupik0137@gmail.com

www.birchwoodhall.com

Blimpie 1153 Russ Ave., Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-9415

kcllkfc@aol.com

www.blimpie.com

Bocelli's Italian Eatery and PUB319 319 North Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-4900

schattie@charter.net

www.bocellisitalianeatery.com and www.pub319socialhouse.com

Bogarts Restaurant & Tavern

303 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-1313

info@bogartswaynesville.com www.bogartswaynesville.com

Bojangles of WNC, LLC 1850 South Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6060 dminnick.boj@gmail.com www.bofanatics.com

Bojangles of WNC, LLC Highway 19 Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 (828) 277-1660 dminnick.boj@gmail.com www.bofanatics.com

Bojangles of WNC, LLC 734 Champion Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 648-7040 amanda.housand@bojangles.com www.bofanatics.com

Boojum Brewing Company 357 Dayton Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 944-0888 kelsie@boojumbrewing.com www.boojumbrewing.com

Bosu's Wine Shop & Restaurant 138 Miller St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0120 bosu@waynesvillewine.com www.waynesvillewine.com

Classic Wineseller 20 Church St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-6000 richard@classicwineseller.com www.classicwineseller.com

Crepe & Custard 55 Memory Lane Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 8282838199 crepe.custard@gmail.com crepeandcustard.com

Dickeys BBQ of the Carolinas 1778 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (954) 249-5007 rrodriguez@bigaol.com www.dickeys.com

Fat Buddies BBQ 193 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6368 jstjohn49@gmail.com www.fatbuddiesribsandbbq.com

Frankies Italian Trattoria 1037 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-6216 louis@frankiestrattoria.com www.frankiestrattoria.com

Frog Level Brewing Company 56 Commerce St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 454-5664 info@froglevelbrewing.com www.froglevelbrewing.com

Haywood 209 Cafe 3360 Crabtree Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 627-3331 drakefultz209cafe@gmail.com www.haywood299cafe.com

Jack the Dipper Ice Cream 76 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9766

andy@jackthedipper.com www.jackthedipper.com

Kanini's Restaurant and Catering 1196 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 507-3654

kaninis@kaninis.com www.kaninis.com

Kentucky Fried Chicken 667 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6626 kcllkfc@aol.com www.kfc.com

McDonalds Canton 702 Champion Dr. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 279-0221 marcia.elkins@us.stores.mcd.com www.cedwardsgroup.com

Pepsi Cola Company P.O. Box 1207 Fletcher, NC 28732 (828) 650-7800 msmith@pepsihky.com

Publix Super Markets 124 Frasier St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (704) 424-5017

Erin.McBride@publix.com www.publix.com

Sagebrush Steakhouse 895 Russ Ave. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-5822 waynesville@sagebrushsteakhouse.com www.SagebrushSteakhouse.com

The Scotsman 37 Church St Waynesville, NC 28786 makyia@scotsmanpublic.com scotsmanpublic.com

Valley Cigar & Wine Co 20 Swanger Lane Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 944-0686

maggie@valleycigaranfwineco.com valleycigarandwineco.com

Wicked Fresh Seafood Co. 142 Miller St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 476-5020 richgray47@gmail.com Wickedfreshseafoodwnc.com

Woof St. Bistro 310 North Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 734-0387 woofSt.wnc@gmail.com

SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL

828 Market on Main 180 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9900 carriegriffin828@gmail.com

A Shot Above of WNC P.O. Box 822 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 593-8321

flyguy2010a@yahoo.com www.ashot-above.com

Aaron's 143 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-3130

C0394@aarons.com www.shopaarons.com

Affairs of the Heart 120 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-0526 affairs.miller@gmail.com

Ava & Arden 62 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6777 avaandarden@gmail.com

Axe and Awl

Leatherworks 41 Depot St. Waynesville, NC 28786 828-246-0996 courtney@axeandawlleatherworks.com www.axeandawlleatherworks.com

Balsam Antique Mall

25 Muse Business Park, STE 1 Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-7070 balsammall@yahoo.com www.balsamantiquemall.com

Cold Mountain Toffee

1959 Jonathan Creek Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 926-2459 coldmountaintoffee@gmail.com www.coldmountaintoffee.com

Cornerstone Mercantile 190 Depot St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9390 cornerstonemercantile190@gmail.com Cornerstonemercantile.com

Dillsboro Chocolate Factory

170 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9838

info@dillsborochocolate.com www.dillsborochocolate.com

Green Orchid Soap Co.

36 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 550-6506

greenorchidsoapco@gmail.com www.greenorchidsoapco.com

Haywood Ace Hardware & Garden Center

1391 Dellwood Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 926-0300

haywoodace@att.net

www.haywoodace.com

Hometown HardwareCanton

127 Plaza Loop Canton, NC 28716

(828) 456-8344

info@hometown-hardware.com www.hometown-hardware.com

Hometown HardwareWaynesville 219 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-8344 office@hometown-hardware.com www.hometown-hardware.com

Mast General Store 63 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 452-2101

joey@mastgeneralstore.com www.mastgeneralstore.com

Mud Dabbers Pottery

20767 Great Smoky Mountain Expressway Balsam, NC 28707 (828) 456-1916

muddabbers@gmail.com muddabberspottery.org

Sassafras on Main 196 N Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-6222 susanne@sassafrasonsutton.com sassafrasonmain.com

Sorrells Merchandise Co., Inc. 3796 Jonathan Creek Rd. Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 926-0385

sorrells@cbvnol.com

Staples 89 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-2089

gm1823@staples.com www.staples.com

The Jeweler's Workbench

80 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 456-2260

cdavis@thejwbench.com www.thejwbench.com

The Southern Loft 172 N. Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 400-2498

jmgthesouthernloft@gmail.com www.thesouthernloft.com

The Station on Main 102 N Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 246-9966

thestation1208@gmail.com www.christinasstation.com

Village Framer 56 North Main St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-0823

ncjeannie@live.com www.frameshopwaynesville.com

Waynesville Shopping Center, LLC

435 Overlook Dr. Maggie Valley, NC 28751

(828) 926-3940

WNC Billiards

181 Wall St. Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 507-7997

Dclementsjr@hotmail.com

www.wncbilliards.com

SPORTS & RECREATION

Lake Logan - Retreat Center/ Camp Henry/ Outdoor School

25 Wormy Chestnut Lane Canton, NC 28716

(828) 646-0095

lauri@lakelogan.org

www.lakelogan.org

Laurel Ridge Country Club & Event Center

49 Cupp Lane Waynesville, NC 28786

(828) 452-0545

info@laurelridgegolf.com

www.laurelridgeexperience.com

Maggie Valley Club & Resort

1819 Country Club Dr. Maggie Valley, NC 28786 (828) 926-1616 membership@maggievalleyclub.com www.maggievalleyclub.com

Springdale Resort

200 Golfwatch Rd. Canton, NC 28716 (828) 318-0991 reservations@springdalegolf.com www.springdalegolf.com

The Waynesville Inn, Golf Resort & Spa 176 Country Club Dr. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3551

ccorbin@waynesvilleinnandgolf.com www.thewaynesvilleinn.com

Tuckaseegee Fly Shop 110 Depot St. Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 488-3333 Info@tuckflyshop.com Www.tuckflyshop.com

TRANSPORTATION

Asheville Regional Airport Authority 61 Terminal Dr., STE 1 Fletcher, NC 28732-9442 (828) 684-2226

tkinsey@flyavl.com www.flyavl.com

Biltmore Logistics, Inc.

12 Grower Lane Arden, NC 28704 (828) 399-9650 gainesdavid65@gmail.com

WNC Shuttle Luxury Transportation

523 S Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 justin@wncshuttle.com