38 minute read
Opinion
Substance still matters in politics
Haywood County resident Lynda Bennett was beaten badly in the Republican runoff primary for Congress last week against 24-year-old political newcomer Madison Cawthorn. As a reporter and editor who has been involved in the coverage of more than a dozen races for this congressional seat, I was heartened by her loss.
You know why? It’s not due to her party affiliation or even her views on the big issues facing this country and which Congress will have to grapple with over the next few years. As far as issues go, she differs very little from the candidate who thrashed her by an almost 2-to-1 margin on June 23.
The problem is that even before she held elected office, Bennett had become a politician who blamed others and the media for her problems (she even has a “fake news” section on her website), would not talk to the press or constituents, skirted campaign laws and acted as if she was entitled to the seat due to her endorsements from on-high. Bennett’s loss was good for the voters of Western North Carolina.
And the margin of the loss showed that voters in the district are paying attention. Look, when former Congressman Mark Meadows won this seat in 2012, he lived in Cashiers, was easily accessible to the media and constituents, and was all over the district holding town hall meetings. As he became a conservative media darling once in D.C., he transformed into the kind of politician most of us loathe — he became inaccessible to those he represents, he forsook Cashiers for a home somewhere close to the Asheville airport so he could hurry to Washington, and eventually became so drunk with power that he left the district without a representative in Congress with 10 months left on his term so he could serve as White House chief of staff.
As for Meadows, the safe bet is he’ll end up fired or forced to resign like his predecessors. Once that happens, there’s little doubt he’ll land somewhere in the Fox News stratosphere or as a consultant or lobbyist, Scott McLeod Editor another creature of the swamp he and his boss promised to drain. As far as this race goes, Meadows tried to anoint Bennett in a very scurrilous sequence of events. As most in the district know, Meadows’ brother had registered a Bennett for Congress website prior to Rep. Meadows’ announcement of his resignation. He — Meadows — announced his resignation one day before the deadline for registering to run in the race, leaving other potential candidates scrambling to get to Raleigh and register. She then got the endorsement of such GOP high-ups as Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio and the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus. Even the president Tweeted his endorsement, and on her website we get a photo of Trump even before we see Bennett. Talk about trying to ride in on the coattails of others.
Here’s the truth of it: Bennett was the lesser of the two candidates. She had positioned herself in seemingly all the right ways politically except one — getting in front of her constituents. Her refusal to debate or talk to the media — especially in a campaign that occurred during a global pandemic — left voters with only the hype and no substantive picture of who this candidate was. What kind of person was she? Most voters still don’t know and never will. Now it doesn’t matter.
The race for the 11th District seat now comes down to Cawthorn and Democrat Moe Davis, two seemingly quality candidates. My bet is we will all see plenty of these two, that they’ll hold debates and do lots of interviews, let the public have a clear choice of who they are and who they should support. There’s sure to be some nastiness as many outside-theregion national PACs are likely to get involved, but voters will decide who is best for this region.
Hopefully this is a lesson to other politicians. Yes, you can convince high-ups of your value to get their endorsements, and social media and other digital platforms can be useful in many ways. But voters want to know who you are, which may seem old-fashioned. Bennett forgot that simple truth, but the voters who sent her packing didn’t. (Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com)
Forest plan lacks water quality measures
To the Editor:
The Nantahala and Pisgah national forests are the headwaters of seven major river systems, providing drinking water for millions of people in four southeastern states and wildlife habitat for a bewildering array of native species such as the hellbender and native brook trout. Right now, the U.S. Forest Service is drafting the next forest management plan for these forests — a blueprint for how our forests will be managed for the next 15-20 years — and, unfortunately, the current draft is inadequate in a few very important ways when it comes to protecting water quality.
First and foremost, the Forest Service needs to meet or exceed the stream protection standards that they’ve set for other Southern Appalachian National Forests such as the Chattahoochee, the Cherokee, and the Jefferson. While the 100-foot buffer on perennial streams is good, the draft plan only affords intermittent streams a 15-foot buffer, and provides no protection at all for ephemeral streams — the type of streams that make up the very beginning of the watershed networks we depend on.
Compare this to Cherokee National Forest, across the border in Tennessee, which has a default riparian buffer of 100 feet on perennial streams and 50 feet on intermittent streams, as well as some protections within 25 feet of ephemeral stream channels. Cherokee
LETTERS
National Forest also allows buffers to be increased to 264 feet in areas with steeper slopes, although limited harvest is allowed.
These buffers prevent stream banks from being degraded, provide shade, and reduce sediment pollution due to timber harvesting, road building and other development. When these protective buffers are removed, water temperatures increase and sediment makes its way into streams and rivers. That excess sediment suffocates aquatic habitats and reduces populations of species such as trout, freshwater mussels and hellbenders.
The Forest Service should also adapt better timbering practices and improve road and trail maintenance to reduce sediment pollution. Forest roads in backcountry areas that will be passively managed should be decommissioned or repurposed for trails. This would help prevent erosion and sediment pollution and extreme flooding in forest rivers and streams due to the heavy rains and storms and stormwater runoff.
Finally, there are nine Outstanding Resource Waters in the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests. These are watersheds that are determined to have excellent water quality and exceptional ecological or recreational significance, and the Forest Service should make sure they are named and protected in the final plan.
The Forest Service’s deadline for public comment is June 29 and this is our last significant chance to have our say. Submit your comment today at mountaintrue.org/forestplancomment, through the Forest Services CARA portal, or by US Mail addressed to Plan Revision Team, National Forests in North Carolina, 160 Zillicoa St, Asheville NC 28801, and help us win better protections for the 1,200 miles of streams and rivers of Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests. Callie Moore, MountainTrue Western Regional Director David Caldwell, Broad Riverkeeper Hartwell Carson, French Broad Riverkeeper Gray Jernigan, Green Riverkeeper Andy Hill, Watauga Riverkeeper
Pipeline is a threat to Appalachian Trail
To the Editor:
The Appalachian Trail, spanning nearly 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine, maintains a natural mystique that cannot be found anywhere else on earth. It attracts over 3 million visitors annually and is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world.
Regrettably, this national treasure is imperiled by the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, which is set to pass through the George Washington and Monongahela National Forests and bisect the Appalachian Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 600-mile pipeline begins in Harrison County, West Virginia, travels through Virginia, extends into southern and eastern North Carolina, ending in Robeson County.
In a dispute between the National Park Service and the United States Forest Service, the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in 2018 that the Appalachian Trail and the 600 feet below it, which is necessary for the construction of the pipeline, fell under the jurisdiction of the National Parks Service. On June 15, 2020, in a 7-2 reversal of the 4th Circuit decision, the U.S. Supreme Court interpreted the 1968 Trails System Act to mean that although the National Parks Service may run a footpath over the land, the land underneath belongs to the National Forest Service. In their dissent, Justices Sotomayor and Kagan asserted that if the National Parks Service administers the trail, it must also administer the land underneath, as the trail cannot be separated from the underlying land. As a result of this ruling, the U.S. Forest Service has the authority to issue a permit to pipeline developers.
The preservation of the Appalachian Trail is of considerable significance to many of us, and I’ve spent countless summer days mesmerized by its beauty, awed by its challenges, and felt the sense of wonder that arises when hiking through these mountains. The Atlantic Coast Pipeline is destructive, dangerous, and unnecessary. Its negative impacts, which include restricted access to clean water and breathable air, disproportionately fall on lowincome workers and people of color. Corporate greed should not take precedence over the livelihood of entire communities. Grace Feichter Waynesville
To the Editor:
I moved to Jackson County in January of 2013 and have been in love with everything about this area until recently. Increasingly, I wonder if this is home anymore. Home is often a place that you feel safe, secure, and loved — those haven’t been my feelings lately as I have spent time in town and seen armed men guarding the statue of the Confederate soldier known as “Sylva Sam” that stands overlooking our beautiful town.
I inquired with Town of Sylva board members and learned that three board members voted to ask the Jackson County Board of Commissioners to remove the statue solely based on public safety and the request was denied. I have read statements from county commissioners who seem to either be in support of keeping Sylva Sam in his present place, would like to remove Sylva Sam, or would like to create a task force to provide commissioners with some direction on Sylva Sam.
I find it concerning that our elected officials aren’t listening to those who recently spoke at a board meeting in favor of replacing the statue since no one other than the chairman of the board of commissioners provided support for keeping Sylva Sam in its current place. The idea of creating a Task Force is just as unsafe as keeping Sylva Sam present overlooking our community. I assume this task force would be made up by a diverse group of individuals in our community that aren’t in support and that are in support of Sylva Sam. This task force would put black and brown individuals in our community in an unsafe position, putting them in direct contact with the same individuals who stand armed to guard Sylva Sam. This task force would slow down the progress that is being made regionally, state-wide, and nationally to address these racist monuments.
While I applaud the effort to include community members in the conversation, I believe this is best left to those who myself and many others have elected to make decisions on my behalf in this community. Now is the time for our local elected officials to provide us with the leadership that you agreed to provide and anything other than that leadership is negligent on your part. This lack of leadership shows that you don’t represent all of the individuals that voted for you.
As an African American voting member of this community I would like to feel safe at home again and hope you will hear me in asking you to do what is right for someone that voted for each of you! The way forward may be hard and require you to be uncomfortable and to confront your own biases, but it is right. I hope that you will be able to proudly tell your grandchildren you were on the right side of history in deciding to remove a statue that depicts racism and hatred in our region. Kelly Brown Sylva To the Editor:
Giving in to the misguided desire to remove statues and monuments, which Black Lives Matter admits is just the beginning of their quest to erase history, would be a monumental (no pun intended) mistake. This isn’t about being against “racism” or feeling “welcome” in the U.S. It’s about power and control. It’s about anarchy and Marxism.
Reinforcing the idea that people are “victims” will lead to nothing good. And who of these protesters is perfect? Who of them would like to have their entire lives judged by the mistakes they’ve made? Everyone has good and bad aspects to their personalities and no one wants to be judged or have their life boiled down to one belief or action. This is why judging historical figures in light of today’s political environment is morally wrong.
We are all struggling every day to survive and hopefully thrive in this world. Life is difficult. We have setbacks, anxieties, obstacles, and whatever else life throws in our path. We need to be kind to each other, not make demands. Not march with fists raised in anger, calling people “racist” and trying to destroy their businesses and lives. Not demonizing law enforcement. Playing upon “white guilt” and making people apologize for their so-called “white privilege” is a horrible way to treat people. It’s a window into what life in this country would be like if things continue on the current path. Aimee Stein Waynesville
People exaggerate COVID-19 suffering
To the Editor:
In today’s America, we find ourselves facing the continued onslaught of biased reporting and erroneous “expert” advice relative to a virus no more significant than a severe flu outbreak. And to add suffering to misery, we have continuing protests and their accompanying riots and looting with a professionally coordinated effort by Black Lives Matter, Antifa and other supporting subversives. Indeed, a new American conflict.
We have state and federal health officials and government leaders exaggerating the fatality numbers from the virus as well as making an all-out effort to convince the uninformed that “catching the virus equals death.” They are fear mongers of the worst kind, using the opportunity to garner more power for themselves over the people for as long as they can. And in the process they have substantially harmed the nation’s economy and the lives of millions of Americans.
Our leaders on both sides of the political aisle have done their part to demonstrate that in today’s America, we have the worst leadership in our nation’s history. Leaders characterized by dishonesty, cowardice, apathy and gross incompetency. The nation’s “flock” has seen the departure of its leaders, leaving the flock to be devoured by wolves, coyotes and wild dogs.
What will it take to stop the growing assault on our nation, its freedoms and its history? A Black Lives Matter leader has now pointed its attention to the American churches. What will that mean?
These forces at work in the land today are as evil as any we have seen in recent times, anywhere in the world. Their intent is clear, take the nation down and turn it in to something few would want. These groups and their adherents and supporters are demonic. They are active extensions of the kingdom of darkness and they will have to be stopped. And rest assured when the time comes, we will stop them! Rob Rich Waynesville
Separating truth from fiction
To the Editor:
An early lesson that a child hears is “tell the truth” and “honesty is the best policy.” When siblings or playmates fight the adult in the room usually figures out where the truth lies. Most of the time, facts become apparent as the situation becomes clear.
So where have those honest children and adults in the room gone? What has happened to the children that were raised to tell the truth? We are hearing stories, tall tales, elaborate storytelling, and creative writing with a new label called conspiracy theory. It seems this new story spinning has taken a giant leap into political life and explodes into social media, growing with shares and likes. And worse, it gets repeated over and over like a giant game of “telephone.” It is told so many times, gaslighting, by those that should be credible. What makes it even more frustrating is that the ignorant, vulnerable and weak critical thinkers turn into perpetuators of the lie.
There is no better conspiracy theory than the flat out lie circulating that China created Covid-19 on purpose to disrupt the world economy for their advantage or evil. Just last week, while shopping in Sylva, a storekeeper asked me if I thought this ridiculous tale is true. Obviously, she thought it true. There seems to be a need for a reliable clearing house, but trust of anyone, anything, any information has become suspect no matter the source. Certainly, our politicians, particularly the president, his cronies, hired help and followers, when the facts do not fit the desired narrative, resort to conspiracy theory. It is repeated, endorsed, and eventually the naive shopkeeper becomes victimized by this fabrication.
A healthy dose of critical thinking and honesty would help all of us survive the critical life and safety risks that we face. The message to Mr. Trump needs to be just “tell the truth.” It certainly is a challenge for the president that has struggled with this concept. Pam Krauss Sylva To the Editor:
By leaving households without reliable internet access, the marginalization of Southern Appalachia will perpetuate. Without a good connection to the World Wide Web, Western North Carolina will continue to be behind on matters related but not limited to: education, healthcare, job opportunities, etc.
The majority of my high school career was spent loitering for internet during after school hours; and I am still loitering for a good connection, well into my college years. It is just plain sad when the Bojangles has better internet than the public library. By no means am I shaming the library, for they have been there for me and others and I will be forever indebted.
Shame on the “powers that be” that have allowed this monstrosity to continue. Time and time again they put profits over the wellbeing of us locals. By investing in your local populace, environment, and infrastructure, you also strengthen other sectors, such as the tourism industry. It is imperative, now more than ever, to start thinking sustainably and that starts with putting first the wellbeing of those who have and will continue to make these mountains our home. Laura Booth Swain County
Some people just don’t get it
To the Editor:
A reader’s letter in the last issue complained about mainstream media and a limited view of events that he described as “The Frame.” Mainstream media is identified that way because the vast majority of Americans recognize that the main media sources are honest, reliable and mostly unbiased. Mainstream media includes ABC, CBS, CNN and NBC, and locally the Asheville Citizen Times, The Sylva Herald and, of course, The Smoky Mountain News. It does not include FOX, the president’s favorite network, but even that network has recently complained about the president’s actions.
I regularly watch CNN, ABC and NBC and also read The Week, a Newsweek/Time type of weekly magazine that usually provides reprints from various media, including Fox.com and the Washington Examiner, both of which are very conservative. CNN often interviews Trump supporters, including Trump spokesperson Kellyanne Conway and Rick Santorum, formerly a Republican senator from Pennsylvania and Trump supporter, as well as members of the president’s cabinet. Those interviews definitely present views from the president’s point of view.
As a Christian, I can’t support a sexist and racist liar, and have a hard time understanding how other Christians (or other people of faith) could support him, either. I am not a liberal Democrat. In fact, I was a moderate Republican for F
Songbirds, stars and the Fourth of July
Every morning around 5:15, the birds start chirping outside my window. The past several months I’ve been trying to figure out which song goes with which type of bird. It’s made me realize why people become fascinated with these beautiful creatures. Each day, at the same time, they start singing their songs. And every morning, no matter what stress I’m under, their songs make me smile.
About six years ago I thought I was in a sweet spot of life. It was the Fourth of July 2014. Both my parents were alive and healthy, sitting on the back deck of my old house. My boys were little and Susanna Shetley Columnist they needed me for everything. My entire identity centered around being a mom.
As I scurried about changing diapers or making food or looking for a pacifier, my parents played with the boys, all of their laughter swirling into the air, creating a precious sound. I have a picture of this very day. Everyone is wearing red, white and blue, buying time between the Lake Junaluska parade and nighttime fireworks.
Upon reflection, what made the day wonderful was having both my parents and both my boys in the same space and experiencing those powerful emotions that come along with love and family. My marriage was already struggling, but it was easy to ignore when I was happily busying myself being a daughter and a mom.
July Fourth was always a special time for my family. We spent the week at Ocean Lakes Campground near Myrtle Beach, immersed in every festive activity available. With fried chicken, watermelon, sweet tea, golf cart parades and fireworks, our meals and agenda embodied Americana. As a child who cherished this holiday, I grew up and wanted the same for my children.
This year for the first time ever, my boys won’t be with me on July 4. They will be with their dad. One of the hardest things about divorce is not being with my children all of the time. Custody agreements are brutal. I’ve dealt with this before concerning Thanksgiving, Christmas and other holi
over 50 years, but I became an unaffiliated voter shortly before the current president was inaugurated. I never voted for a Democrat for president until 2016. I did not leave the Republican Party; it left me. Lincoln and Reagan are spinning in their graves. days, so I know I’ll survive, but it’s still hard.
It’s been six years since that day on the deck with my parents. Life feels much different. Not only is the world suffering a pandemic resulting in minimal Fourth of July activities, but my mom is no longer here on earth. Further, I’m no longer a young mom. Those sweet years of early motherhood are evaporating.
My boys are 8 and 11 now. My 8-yearold still feels young, like he needs me to function and be happy. And while I know my 11-year-old will always need his mom, it feels different now. He’s a rising sixth-grader, and so much growth and maturity happens between fourth and sixth grades. He no longer looks like a little boy. Every day, he appears taller, older. It’s like right in front of my eyes, my baby is morphing into an adolescent, and I’m trying to grasp these last few fleeting months of his childhood.
The aftermath of death and divorce hasn’t been all doom and gloom. It’s allowed me to see life with a new lens. I cherish every moment with the people I love. I hold onto conversations, music, laughter, anything that offers brightness.
I recently read a passage in Nikki Banas’s book Shine from Within, where Banas says, “Know that no darkness ever lasts. The darkest nights always end in dawn. The darkest storms always end in peaceful light. A single flame can light even the darkest room. Look for the light no matter how difficult it is. A single star can shine out the darkness of the night … Look for that light, no matter how difficult it is. Look for the small flame, look for the single star.”
Many folks are currently struggling. If it’s not personal trauma, it’s societal and public health stress. The world feels heavy. Humans thrive off routine and at least a semblance of predictability. With so many unknowns right now, we feel disoriented and uneasy.
I know myself well. I know what triggers my anxiety. I know which healing and therapeutic tactics work. Those tactics are ever evolving. For over two years, I gave little mind to the birds outside my window. I went about my merry way unconcerned with their songs, but for the past four months, the birds have been a lifeline, a much needed constant.
And as the Fourth of July approaches, I’m not sitting around bemoaning the fact I won’t have my boys. Like a single star or a songbird, I’m fighting the darkness with all the light I can find. (Susanna Shetley is a writer, editor and digital media specialist for The Smoky Mountain News, Smoky Mountain Living and Mountain South Media. susanna.b@smokymountainnews.com)
I have lived in the South for well over 60 years. An old Southern saying expressed to someone who doesn’t “get it” is “God bless you.” So, to that letter writer: God bless you. Clark Pearson Sylva
Congratulations to NAI Beverly-Hanks’ CASEBILLLY CASE AAwarded CCIM Designation
Certified Commercial Investment Member The CCIM designation is awarded to commercial real estate professionals upon successful completion o nf a graduate-level education curriculum a d presentation of a portfolio of qualifying experience. CCIMs are recognized experts in commercial real estate brokerage, leasing, asset management, valuation, and investment analysis. Billy Case, CCIM (828) 508-4527 | billycase@naibeverly-hanks.com
Ingles Nutrition Notes written by Ingles Dietitian Leah McGrath
NUTRITION Q & A
QUESTION: My husband has high triglycerides. What foods should he avoid and what would be better snacks for him?
ANSWER:
Our bodies often package excess calories we don't use as triglycerides. Especially if we are eating too many calories from high sugar or high fat foods; those are turned into triglycerides by our liver. High triglycerides can be a "red flag" for an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes as well as a warning sign about our heart health. The desirable level for triglycerides is under 150mg/dl. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/indepth/triglycerides/art-20048186 Foods and beverages that are often culprits in raising triglycerides are: sweetened beverages like juice drinks, sodas, sweet tea; candy, and fried foods. Better beverage and snack options would be: Jrunchy vegetables, nuts (in small amounts), 1-2 servings of whole fruit per day, water, no sugar added and non-caloric beverages or beverages sweetened using non-nutritive sweeteners like stevia, sucralose etc.
Leah McGrath, RDN, LDN Ingles Market Corporate Dietitian @InglesDietitian Leah McGrath - Dietitian 800.334.4936
Fourth of July in the Smokies
Nothing says summer more than the Fourth of July. And in Western North Carolina, we celebrate Independence Day with gusto.
But, with the current Coronavirus Pandemic, many annual events and festivals have been canceled and postponed until next year. And yet, that doesn’t mean there will be a lack of fun things to do and see.
Many of our mountain communities will still be hosting fireworks displays and an array of activities for any and all to enjoy. So, grab your lawn chair, sunglasses and adventurous spirit, and enjoy this special day.
BRYSON CITY
The fireworks will be held at 10 p.m. Saturday, July 4. Shot off from Airport Hill, which overlooks downtown Bryson City, spectators are asked to maintain social distancing.
Downtown streets will open for viewing. You can watch the display from the sidewalks or a variety of public areas and business lots, including Railroad Square in the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad parking lot.
All annual “Freedom Fest” activities will be rescheduled for 2021. For a map of fireworks viewing options, visit www.greatsmokies.com.
CANTON
The Town of Canton and Champion Credit Union Fireworks Display will be held at dusk on Sunday, July 5. There will be no formal or additional events associated with the show.
The town encourages the community to view the fireworks from their vehicles or residences and maintain social distancing. Sorrells Street Park and other Town of Canton properties will be closed to the public during the show. www.cantonnc.com.
CASHIERS
The “Fireworks Extravaganza on the Green” has been canceled for 2020. www.villagegreencashiersnc.com.
CHEROKEE
The “4th of July Fireworks” will be held at 10 p.m. Saturday, July 4, at the old Cherokee High School. Attendees are encouraged to practice social distancing, wearing of masks and other safety precautions. If you’re laying down a blanket or chair, maintain a safe distance from others. www.visitcherokeenc.com.
display will be showcased on the Highlands Road. Sponsored by the Town of Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com.
HIGHLANDS
The annual “July Fourth Fireworks Display” has been canceled and postponed until Saturday, Sept. 5. www.highlandschamber.org.
LAKE JUNALUSKA
Though the fireworks display has been shifted to a later date in 2020, there are still several activities available from July 2-5 at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center.
Activities include canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals, yoga, lakeside swimming pool, Fourth of July “Closest to the Pin” contest at the Lake Junaluska Golf Course, clogging lessons, bird tour, Round Robin Tennis Tournament, barbecue picnic to-go lunch, a pontoon boat cruise, “Outdoor Movie on the Lawn,” mountain hiking, ice cream social, corn hole tournament, garden tour, bonfire, and much more.
As well, the legendary Lake Junaluska Singers will host the “Independence Day Concert,” which will be streamed online at 7:15 p.m. July 4. www.lakejunaluska.com.
MAGGIE VALLEY
Though the “Backyard 4th Celebration” has been postponed until 2021, the Town of Maggie Valley will still be hosting fireworks at dusk on Saturday, July 4. The town encourages citizens and visitors alike to watch the fireworks from a location where you can maintain social distancing.
The Festival Grounds will not be open for watching the fireworks. However, you can stand on the sidewalk and use public parking areas as long as you adhere to social distancing. www.maggievalley.org.
SYLVA
The fireworks are still planned for dusk (generally around 9:45 p.m.) on Saturday, July 4, which will be showcased over downtown Sylva. The town encourages attendees to view the display while maintaining social distancing.
There will be no concert, food trucks or children’s activities at Bridge Park this year. The fireworks are organized by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.
“We feel it’s more important than ever to provide the fireworks display, as we have all been navigating the Covid economy and dealing with the personal and professional impacts of Covid,” said Julie Spiro Donaldson, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce. “People expect to see fireworks on July 4th, and they need to see them this year. We aren’t going to disappoint them. We hope having a spectacular 17-minute fireworks show will lift spirits.” www.mountainlovers.com.
WAYNESVILLE
The “4th of July Celebration” in downtown Waynesville will kick off with “Art After Dark” from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 3, which will offer late-night shopping, dining, artisan demonstrations and local musicians. There will also be activities open to the public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 4, on Main Street. www.downtownwaynesville.com.
BY GARRET K. WOODWARD
The 1940s Rotary Deluxe cowboy parlor guitar. (photo: Garret K. Woodward)
Sitting in the back den of my parents’ Upstate New York farmhouse last week, I could hear the familiar sounds of the big brown UPS truck and its squeaky brakes slowing down to full stop in front of the driveway.
Shooting up from the recliner, I darted outside and met the driver just as he emerged from the delivery vehicle. He handed me the big rectangular box and said farewell. Walking back to the farmhouse, I got a better grip on the large cardboard container, a big grin rolling across my face.
Placing the box on the kitchen table, I grabbed a sharp kitchen knife and meticulously opened the package. Remove all of the stuffed newspaper, bubble wrap and other scraps of paper. Feeling around, I felt the hard case and slid it out, finally revealing itself: a 1940s Rotary Deluxe cowboy parlor guitar.
Popping open the road case, the smell of old wood and dusty strings wafted through the kitchen. Holding the acoustic instrument, I marveled for several seconds over the intricate and well-preserved stencil art on the guitar, depicting a cowboy and cowgirl, with the cowboy lassoing the sound hole (which was symbolically the moon).
Purchased online from a guitar store in Iowa, I kept thinking of all the people, places and things the Rotary Deluxe had seen in its almost 80 years of travel and performance. Perhaps it wandered the Rocky Mountains or headed east at some point, only to circle back halfway to the cornfields of the Midwest. Heck, think of all of the guitar players who have picked it, all of those folks either long gone or still roaming this earth.
The journey to ownership of the Rotary Deluxe has been quite the whirlwind this year. Starting with a simple ukulele as a gift from my mother on my birthday in February, I became obsessed with the fourstring instrument, finding all the time in the world to learn and play it throughout the coronavirus shutdown and shelter-in-place.
Though the ukulele and acoustic guitar are somewhat different in chord changes and approach, I knew the transition from one to the other would be more to my liking, seeing as I could take my confidence and skill set from the uke and apply it eventually to a six-string acoustic.
Thus, here I am some four months since my birthday, the proud owner of four ukuleles and two guitars (including a 1966 Silvertone acoustic). How wild, eh? My musician friends have informed me that I’ve caught what is known as “G.A.S.” (gear acquisition syndrome), where one can’t seem to stop browsing and buying additional instruments and accessories.
And I was thinking this morning about why I’m so attracted to these old acoustic guitars. Well, if you dive deep into my past, you’ll see exactly. I’ve always loved old houses, old cars, old brass beds, old barns, old chairs and old desks, etc.
That admiration and appreciation for those things comes from my parents, of which I grew up in an 1820 limestone farmhouse, an early 1970s MGB sports car parked in the old barn, weekend trips with my family always spent chasing historical sites (and quaint New England towns), and always embracing the beauty of antiques and the stories these items and places tell if you just take the time to truly listen.
But, most of all, I love old folks, people whose minds I can pick about their personal experiences and what their long journey along the road of life has been, ultimately the wisdom radiated and bestowed in their presence. Truth be told, there really ain’t anything much better in the grand scheme of things than a cup of coffee spent with a wise and vivacious older person with endless tales to spin.
Anyhow, back to the Rotary Deluxe. Though it’s only been a week or so since it came into my possession, I can’t seem to put it down (just like the uke). I find myself constantly walking by the hard case, only to stop and pull it out to strum a few chords rhythmically and continuously.
Even though my mind often thinks of where this guitar has been, I also ponder where it will go from here? My thoughts meander around to open mic nights in neighborhood dive bars and breweries, campfire jam sessions way out in the mountains of Western North Carolina and greater Southern Appalachia, maybe even back out west to the high desert plains once felt firsthand, now only seen and imagined in twilight dreams quickly fleeting.
Regardless, this new, creative lease on life through these instruments has been quite surreal, to say the least. It has been years since I’ve actually played music. And I didn’t realize until lately (with instrument in hand) how much of a void they’ve filled in my heart and soul.
And to any of you reading this who might be toying with the idea of finally picking up an instrument, I have only one thing to say: do it. What are you waiting for? Just do it. Who cares if the initial sounds from your hands are reminiscent of nails on a chalkboard?
I mean, I bet you weren’t the best driver in the world that first day you got your license or, perhaps, good at your job that first day in the office (none of us were). But, you learned and kept going, only to evolve and master whatever process or position you found yourself in. Pick up the instrument. Immerse. Enjoy.
Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all.
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274 S. MAIN ST. WAYNESVILLE 828.246.6570
Reading Soothes the Soul
We are open
Noland-Proben Team
Brian K. Noland & Catherine Proben
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PROFESSIONALS bknoland@beverly-hanks.com • 828.734.5201 cproben@beverly-hanks.com • 828.734.9157
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NEW CONSTRUCTION
10 Summer Breeze Drive | Clyde 3BR/2BA | $325,000 | #3588055
First single-level, detached, custom home in phase two of Cross Winds is complete. The community offers Spectrum cable/internet, city sewer, weekly trash removal, lawn maintenance, county taxes only, and it is convenient to 23/74 and I-40. The home has light filled 9 ft/vaulted ceilings, beautiful granite countertops, black stainless steel appliances, a private covered patio, a twocar garage, a spacious master suite with walk-in closet, plus luxury vinyl plank waterproof flooring and Smart Siding. City water, city sewer. Listing agent is the seller. Agent remark: Bedroom floors are waiting for buyer's choice!
Due to North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper’s announcement on Wednesday, June 24, to extend Phase 2 of Covid-19 restrictions until at least July 17, the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce has postponed the 11th season of Concerts on the Creek again until at least July 17.
Performances will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at Bridge Park in Sylva. The tentative updated schedule is as follows: • Friday, July 17 - Summer & Bray (Mountain Faith) (Bluegrass/Gospel) • Saturday, July 18 - Bohemian Jean (Classic Hits & Originals) • Friday, July 24 - Darren Nicholson Band (Classic Country/Bluegrass/Americana) • Saturday, July 25 - Mile High Band (Classic Rock/Country) • Friday, July 31 - Tuxedo Junction (Classic Hits) • Saturday, Aug. 1 - Terri Lynn Queen, Tim Queen & Scott Baker (Classic Hits) • Friday, Aug. 7 - Dashboard Blue (Classic Hits) • Saturday, Aug. 8- Eleanor Underhill & Friends (Americana) • Friday, Aug. 14 - Jonah Riddle & Carolina Express (Bluegrass/Gospel) • Saturday, Aug. 15 - The Rewind House Band (Classic Rock Hits) • Friday, Aug. 21 - The Get Right Band (Funk/Rock)
Darren Nicholson Band.
• Saturday, Aug. 22 - Shane Meade & The Sound (Soul/Rock/Funk) • Friday, Aug. 28 - Arnold Hill Band (Rock/Country/Americana) • Saturday, Aug. 29 - Keil Nathan Smith Band (Classic Rock/Country) • Friday, Sept. 4: Daddy Rabbit (Blues/Rock) • Saturday, Sept. 5 - SKA City (Ska/Two tone/Trojan rocksteady)
Organizers are awaiting the governor’s lifting of restrictions on crowd gathering sizes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Everyone is encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. These events are free but donations are encouraged. Dogs must be kept on a leash. No alcohol, smoking or coolers are allowed in the park.
Organizers will strongly suggest that everyone obeys safe Covid-19 practices, which include social distancing (staying at least six feet apart), using hand sanitizer when possible, and wearing protective face coverings/masks.
These concerts are organized and produced by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Sylva and the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department.
For more information, call 828.586.2155, visit www.mountainlovers.com/concerts-onthe-creek or Concerts on the Creek’s Facebook page.
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Groovin’ On the Green canceled
The Village Green has announced that the Friday night summer concert series, Groovin’ On the Green is canceled for the 2020 season due to COVID-19.
Since early March, The Village Green has had to make several difficult, but important decisions related to the coronavirus pandemic. This includes closing the children’s playground, also known as the Village Play.
“We have considered each closure, event cancellation or program modification with regard to how we lead in modeling social responsibility and protecting the safety and health of the community. This has been our primary operating motivation for The Village Green,” said Ann Self, executive director of The Village Green, Cashiers 13+ acre privately conserved central park. “Because of the uncertain and ever changing circumstances, it is nearly impossible to make definite plans. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding.”
Gov. Roy Cooper’s announcement that North Carolina will not move into Phase Three for at least three more weeks confirmed the decision to cancel the outdoor concerts. Self said that several scenarios were considered in early June, but without clear direction for outdoor gathering numbers in the future, none of these provided a feasible path forward.
“While we are deeply sad and disappointed, we feel this is the correct decision. We want to exercise an abundance of caution in safeguarding our residents and visitors,” said Self. www.villagegreencashiersnc.com or @cashiersgreen on social media.
• Andrews Brewing Company (Andrews) will host the “Lounge Series” at its Calaboose location with Andrew Chastain July 1, John
Emil July 2, Darren Nicholson July 3, The
Gnarly Fingers July 4, Scott Stambaugh July 5, The Trailer Hippies July 10, Moriah Domby
July 11 and George Ausman July 12. All shows are free and begin at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.andrewsbrewing.com.
• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host
Dylan O. Flanner & Caroline Grace 4 p.m.
July 5. Free and open to the public. www.froglevelbrewing.com.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Natti
Love Joys noon July 4. For more information and a complete schedule of events, click on www.lazyhikerbrewing.com. • The “Haywood County Medical Exhibit: 1870-1950” will be held at The Shelton
House in Waynesville. The showcase will run
July 2 through October. Admission is $7 adults. $5 students. Children ages 5 and under free. Admission includes Shelton
House. 828.452.1551 or www.sheltonhouse.org.
• The next “Dillsboro After Five: Wonderful
Wednesdays” will be held from 3:30 to 7 p.m. July 1 in downtown. Start with a visit to the Jackson County ALSO: Farmers Market located in the Innovation Station parking lot.
Stay for dinner and take advantage of latehour shopping. Bring the family and enjoy small town hospitality at its best. “Dillsboro
After Five” will be held every Wednesday through July 29. For more information, call 828.586.2155 or visit www.mountainlovers.com.
