Smoky Mountain News | August 4, 2021

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August 4-10, 2021 Vol. 23 Iss. 10

Swain tourism businesses engage in legal battle Page 6 Audit finds Waynesville electric bills were accurate Page 15

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CONTENTS On the Cover: The number of positive COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are once again on the rise due to the delta variant, which is more contagious than the original virus. Despite mask recommendations from the CDC and state health officials, several school systems have decided to make masks optional when students return to class. (Page 8)

News Swain tourism businesses engage in legal battle ....................................................6 School boards make different decisions on masks ..................................................8 Boards debate merits of in-person, remote meetings ..........................................12 Audit finds Waynesville electric bills were accurate ..............................................15 Report reveals Cawthorn’s airport gun gaffe ..........................................................16 Leibfarth falls short of Olympic medal ........................................................................17 Jackson jails, senior center to get new food vendor ..............................................17 Community Almanac ........................................................................................................19

Opinion The ‘new normal’ just isn’t acceptable ......................................................................20 Sometimes the plan is to not have a plan ..................................................................21

A&E Widespread Panic comes to Asheville ......................................................................22 Imagining Bob Dylan’s fictional youth..........................................................................29

Outdoors

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August 4-10, 2021

Wildlife was a calling for John Edwards ....................................................................30

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Tourism businesses engage in legal battle

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR wo of Swain County’s largest tourism brands — Nantahala Outdoor Center and Great Smoky Mountains Railroad — are engaged in a lawsuit regarding rightof-way access over the railroad tracks.

NOC originally filed the lawsuit against GSMR on June 1, 2021, after a yearlong dispute over access to NOC property that requires crossing GSMR’s track. Last summer, GSMR allegedly tore up a road that allows NOC’s seasonal employees access to housing on what is called the West Hellards property.

The railroad claims the road was causing safety issues that were not being addressed

by NOC and cited several instances where people have been injured, including a 2017 incident where a Georgia school bus carrying students pulled in front of an arriving passenger train at NOC causing a collision and injuries.

NOC claims the move to close the crossings was retaliatory because NOC refused to reach a new agreement with GSMR regarding annual payment for an easement.

“In late 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic began wreaking havoc throughout the world, GSMR came to NOC and demanded that the NOC sign a new agreement related to the use of the West Hellards Crossings, the East Hellards Crossing, the Appalachian Trail Crossing and the Lake Fontana Crossing and NOC’s existing improvements within the GSMR Rail Corridor despite NOC’s use of the Existing Improvements and Crossings long before GSMR acquired its interest in the GSMR Rail Corridor,” the complaint stated.

According to NOC’s amended complaint filed on June 1, the West Hellards property has been used for residential purposes since 1975 and is currently where 69 NOC employees live. There are two railroad crossings on the West Hellards property that allow the only access by vehicle to the residential area.

When NOC took possession of that property back in 1975, the deed referenced the existing driveways and included rights to use the crossings to access the West Hellards

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August 4-10, 2021

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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad runs from the train depot in Bryson City out through the Nantahala Gorge along the river. File photo property.

According to the complaint, the property had been used for residential purposes since the 1800s — long before the construction of the Murphy Branch Rail Corridor was completed.

NOC claims the railroad company “threatened” to immediately close and destroy the crossings and restrict NOC’s access if NOC did not come to an agreement with GSMR. The complaint states that NOC attempted in “good faith” to negotiate an agreement but that GSMR was not interested in negotiation for safety purposes.

“Instead, GSMR sought to use the threat of closure to force NOC to pay an exorbitant annual fee for a one-sided agreement that was not commercially reasonable that NOC was within its rights to reject,” the complaint stated.

NOC claims that on July 14, 2020, at the height of their tourism season, GSMR’s General Manager Kim Albritton informed NOC that the Lake Fontana Crossing would be closed the next day for “safety reasons.”

The closing of the Fontana crossing prevented NOC and its guests from accessing the lake property for several months, which NOC claims caused the business to lose substantial revenue.

On Friday, July 21, Albritton informed

NOC President William Irving that GSMR would be closing both of the West Hellards crossings at 7 a.m. the next morning. NOC’s complaint claims that Albritton said the crossings would be destroyed by ripping out the pavement and features.

Irving allegedly told Albritton that he would not be able to locate and inform all 60 employees — some of which were quarantining due to COVID-19 exposure — on the property with only a 14-hour notice.

Without notice, those employees would not have time to move their vehicles from the property before the crossings were destroyed. Those residents are now forced to park their vehicles along U.S. 19, which is not safe. N.C. Department of Transportation has already expressed concerns about the shoulder parking.

In an email from GSMR’s lawyer Robert Carpenter sent to NOC July 22, 2020, GSMR allegedly threatened to close the East Hellards crossing the following week unless NOC signed the “extortionate agreement” with GSMR. NOC claims the threat was withdrawn once NOC informed them the East crossing was located on U.S. Forest Service property.

“GSMR’s behavior shows that it will imminently close all the crossings for pretextual reasons and destroy the Center’s busi-

ness and the value and marketability of the East Hellards Property and the West Hellards Property if there is no access to those properties from the adjoining highway,” the complaint stated.

NOC claims GSMR has also retaliated by placing “No Trespassing” and “No Parking” signs on NOC’s property, untruthfully accused NOC employees of vandalism and sabotage without any evidence and threatened employees with prosecution and jail time while employees have been engaged in basic operations on NOC property.

“GSMR has attempted to make these recent dramatic and catastrophic changes to the ways NOC and GSMR have historically operated, and in violation of NOC’s legal rights, in an attempt to extort NOC into accepting unfair and one-sided deal that GSMR may exploit on a whim,” the complaint states.

NOC claims it isn’t the only company GSMR has tried to get a bigger payout to cross the tracks. In exhibit FF — Private Way License — GSMR charged $175,000 to the licensee, which was one-third of the cost GSMR paid NCDOT for the entire rail corridor for a 6-foot-wide pedestrian crossing over the tracks.

At a recent Swain County Commissioner meeting,

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Ingles Nutrition Notes written by Ingles Dietitian Leah McGrath

Q: Are “seed oils” bad to use?

Leah McGrath, RDN, LDN Ingles Market Corporate Dietitian

Smoky Mountain News

A: There’s a lot of misinformation floating around these days about seed oils and health. Often people with no training or education in food science or nutrition just love to scare people about the foods we eat - sometimes in an effort to have us buy something more expensive!

Typically “seed” oils refers to canola and soybean oils.

There are many food products that can be used to make oils that you can find on the shelf at your Ingles Market including tree fruits like avocadoes and olives, nuts (walnut, pecan), legumes (peanut) etc.

The American Heart Association recommends using oils in moderation and choosing oils that are higher in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthyeating/eat-smart/fats/healthy-cooking-oils.

You also want to make sure you are choosing the right oil for your cooking or baking task to make sure your oils don't smoke at high temperatures or give foods a bad taste.

Confused about coconut oil, canola oil, olive oil and all the other options? Find out which are the best cooking oils for your heart health, how to use and store them, and what smoke point means at www.heart.org

August 4-10, 2021

NOC for damages and attorney fees.

GSMR responded with a counterclaim and motion to dismiss on July 30, 2021.

GSMR lawyers denied a majority of NOC’s claims.

GSMR claims the two crossings to East Hellards property and the crossing at West Hellards property presents safety risks to the plaintiffs, the railroad and the public.

The railroad also claims that the private road East Hellards Road intersects railroad tracks without authorization of the railroad within the railroad’s right-of-way easement.

GSMR claims that NOC has a building very close to the tracks currently being used as a “Paddle School” that presents a safety risk. In addition, the railroad claims it converted a railcar into a bathroom at its own expense and placed it on the center’s property and the railroad right-of-way for the shared use, but that the NOC has locked the bathroom to exclude the railroad from using it “in retaliation for taking needed safety measures.”

The railroad admitted to taking necessary safety measures in July 2020 by closing access to railroad property and provided notice to NOC. However, GSMR claims NOC repeatedly

rejected the railroad’s attempts to enter into a reasonable agreement designed to address the railroad’s safety concerns and “staunchly refuse to acknowledge the well-established legal rights of the Railroad thereby leaving the railroad no choice but to take safety measures to prevent the repeated unauthorized, unsupervised and unsafe trespassing in and around the railroad tracks with said safety measures including the placing of ‘No Trespassing’ and ‘No Parking’ signage near the railroad tracks.”

Based on the counterclaim, NOC is expanding usage on its properties for financial gain and therefore a new agreement with the railroad is needed. GSMR claims NOC has been using the right-of-way property without any written agreement between the parties with respect to the use and for the significant financial gain of the NOC entities.

GSMR also argues that the residences NOC refers to do not comply with the “housing” statutes because it more resembles camping quarters and only houses seasonal employees — not year around Swain County residents.

“The NOC entities, these employees and the employees’ invitees access the housing by and through three separate unauthorized places that intersect the railroad tracks,” the railroad’s counterclaim stated.

GSMR claims NOC employees and their guests regularly socialize, consume alcohol and congregate around the railroad tracks and that railroad equipment was vandalized in 2019 when it was parked around the Hellards property.

Safety concerns GSMR listed include NOC patrons crawling under the train to reach the other side, walk the tracks with their dogs or while consuming alcohol, do not move in the face of an oncoming train and run along the tracks in order to outrace an incoming train — just to name a few.

GSMR claims NOC has ignored the railroad’s concerns and complaints, which date back to 1996.

“In North Carolina and according to Federal Railroad Association public records, 27 people died from railroad trespass related injuries in 2019 and 13 died in 2020,” the counterclaim stated. “In total and including fatalities, there were 36 trespasser causalities in 2019 and 24 in 2020.”

The railroad seeks an agreement with NOC to minimize and mitigate safety issue with the use of railroad property. GSMR claims that its efforts to reach an agreement are documented in 1997 when the railroad proposed a license agreement to NOC for its right-of-way.

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Commissioner Kenneth Parton told the board he’d heard complaints from several long-time residents along the GSMR tracks claiming they’ve recently received letters from the railroad asking for a licensing fee to cross the tracks to access their private property.

When asked for clarification via email, Albritton said GSMR has always issued licenses and agreements for adjacent property owners to cross over or utilize railroad property.

“Over time, properties have changed purpose, expanded, or have been sold and these agreements have not been updated.

There are no new letters sent to property owners that have not changed the purpose, expanded, or have not been sold,” she said.

“Great Smoky Mountains Railroad goal is to work with property owners to ensure crossings and usage of GSMR land is documented with current information.”

NOC requested a declaratory judgment to settle the dispute and forbid GSMR from closing the track crossings to its properties.

NOC also requested GSMR compensate

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

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August 4-10, 2021

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Jackson County School Board Chairwoman Alli Laird-Large (left) and Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers during discussion of masking options for the upcoming school year.

School boards make different decisions on masks

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER ue to an increase in COVID-19 cases and transmission rates following the spread of the Delta variant, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its guidance for public schools to recommend universal masking for students, staff and visitors in grades K-12.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper had already announced new health guidelines for North Carolina public schools on July 21, which suggested schools should require masks indoors for all students and staff in grades K-8, and students and staff in high schools who have not been vaccinated should also be required to wear masks indoors.

Those guidelines from the Governor’s Office however, gave local school boards the power to decide what their local mask policies would be.

“Local school districts should continue to protect students and staff by requiring masks and testing as outlined in the guidance,” said Cooper. “The most important work our state will do next month is getting all of our children back into classrooms safely for in-per8 son learning. That’s the best way for them to

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learn, and we want their school days to be as close to normal as possible, especially after the year of disruption they just had.”

With the start to the 2021-22 school year just around the corner, and COVID-19 cases surging, North Carolina Health and Human Services updated the StrongSchoolsNC Public Health Toolkit for the second time in one week. The Toolkit provides guidelines for North Carolina Public Schools to operate safely during the COVID-19 Pandemic, according to the latest guidance from CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The latest update, made July 29, proposes universal masking indoors for students, staff and visitors to schools with grades K-12 due to the current rapid increase in COVID-19 cases, caused by the Delta variant. According to the Public Health Toolkit, while the original virus spread from one person to an average of two or three people, the Delta variant is spreading from one person to an average of six people.

HAYWOOD COUNTY Following contentious public input, and relatively little board discussion, Haywood

County School Board decided to begin the 2021-22 school year without a mask mandate.

This is not the first time the Haywood County School board has taken on the issue, having previously attempted to do away with the state’s mask mandate in Haywood schools last summer. Board attorney Pat Smathers warned the school board that such a move would be illegal. The board took his advice and instead passed a motion stating that the board publicly opposed the mask mandate.

Haywood County Health and Human Services Director Sarah Henderson and Haywood County Medical Director Dr. Mark Jaben presented information to the school board at the special called meeting July 27.

Both health officials recommended to either start the year with the guidelines laid out by the state or devise standards of transmission and infection rates that would determine the need for temporary mask mandates in the future.

“Tonight, the conversation’s around mask or no mask in school, but this might not be the actual question we should be asking,” Jaben said. “Rather, to achieve both learning and safety, the better questions might be, what is the threshold of infection above which we get neither learning nor safety?

What must we do to provide that margin of safety? And where are we right now?”

Jaben said that in his view, making masks optional is essentially like having no masks, in terms of the risk of someone’s choice upon someone else. In his presentation to the board, he stressed the need for flexibility in decision making to be able to require masks if cases are surging to dangerous levels and pivot away from masks if numbers come down within the margin of safety.

The board did not discuss what would be done in the future if case counts or transmission rates continue to rise.

Henderson outlined the consequences of making masks optional. Without masks, all students in a classroom will be considered close contact if another student in the classroom tests positive for COVID-19. According to Henderson, during the last 53 days of the school 2020-21, there were 62 positive COVID-19 cases in the school system. If the same number of cases occurred while not wearing masks, over 1,000 students would have had to quarantine for 14 days.

Henderson expressed the concern that if students returned to school without masks, the number of students that would be required to quarantine due to close contact would be extremely high.

“It’s about healthy children and that’s why we’re here. We all have the same goal and it’s to keep our kids in the classroom,” said Henderson.

According to Henderson, around 9 percent of Haywood County residents age 12-17 are vaccinated.

In addition to county health officials, 16 parents spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting. Of those, 14 asked the board to start the year without a mask mandate, or allow them to be optional, and two pleaded with the board to continue requiring masks.

Parents asking the board to make masks optional most often cited the pain and hardship mask wearing puts on children. Some said that if masks were only required for unvaccinated students, unfair segregation would ensue. Many claimed that wearing masks didn’t serve any protection against the virus, and that since children had not been wearing masks at summer camps, sports and church activities, they shouldn’t have to wear them to go back into the classroom.

“Standard cloth surgical masks offer no protection. The particle that comes through is 60 to 140 nanometers or one micron. The pore size in a surgical mask is 200 to 1,000 that size. They are basically nothing. They don’t help our children whatsoever,” said Stephanie Bell, a parent who has spoken at several of the most recent board meetings imploring the board to stop requiring masks.

Kay Miller, chairwoman of the Haywood County Republican Party, also spoke at the meeting.

“This is a liberty issue, and don’t let anyone tell you that if you don’t support this, that you’re selfish or you don’t care about your neighbor or your family member, it’s liberty.

It’s about liberty. This whole exercise this last year has been about control and compliance.

It’s time to stop the compliance, and we’re not going to put up with the control,” said Miller. “If Gov. Cooper reinstates a mask mandate, don’t do it. I encourage you to not do that. Listen to the parents of the children that are in the schools and those of us who pay taxes. We have a voice.”

Several parents that asked the board to make masks optional blamed the board for children having to wear masks over the past year and a half. However, until July 30, masks were state mandated and local school boards had no power over the decision. Despite that,

“I think that the Haywood County Consolidated School system, following the termination of the current mask mandate on July 30 at 5 p.m., make mask wearing optional for all personnel, students and visitors to schools and facilities in Haywood County.”

Francis asked the board if anyone would like to make a motion to that effect. Rogers made the motion, seconded by Logan Nesbitt, which passed unanimously.

According to Shining Rock Classical Academy School Director Josh Morgan, SCRA — the only public charter school in Haywood County — will begin the year with a mask mandate indoors for all students and staff. The decision was made with guidance from Haywood County health officials.

JACKSON COUNTY

MACON COUNTY SCHOOLS Superintendent Dr. Chris Baldwin and public health officials will continue to monitor the situation, but based on current COVID-19 transmission rates in Macon County, the school system plans to start the school year without a mask mandate.

At the Macon County School Board meeting July 22, five parents spoke in public comment to express the view that Macon County Schools should not require masks for students during the 2021-22 school year.

The StrongSchoolsNC Public Health Toolkit provides guidelines for North Carolina Public Schools to operate safely during the COVID-19 Pandemic, according to the latest guidance from CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

SWAIN COUNTY SCHOOLS The Swain County School Board decided July 29 to make masks optional for all students, staff and visitors. In making this decision, the board made clear that the decision was based on current conditions and was subject to change if COVID-19 transmission rates grow to dangerous levels in the community.

Superintendent Mark Sale presented a staff survey to the school board. According to Sale, two thirds of staff responded to a survey regarding masks in schools. Of those who responded, two thirds wanted masks to be optional for students and staff in schools.

One sixth of respondents wanted all students and staff to be masked indoors.

Swain County Health Department Director Alison Cochran presented current COVID-19 information to the school board.

According to Cochran, 40.7 percent of the total population of Swain County have been vaccinated. Of the 12-17 age population, 258 people have been vaccinated. Cochran said that the Moderna vaccine should be available to people age 12-17 beginning Aug. 1.

The board discussed the importance of flexibility in the decision about masking in schools, and the retaining the ability to change course quickly when conditions require.

A motion was made to make masks optional at this time, a decision that can change according to conditions in the schools or community. The motion passed unanimously. The decision about mask requirements will be reassessed as necessary.

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Smoky Mountain News

The first woman to speak said, “I believe it is in the best interest of the psychological development of our children to get rid of these masks.” She argued that children were scared and that by wearing masks at school they were in greater danger of human trafficking because teachers and staff were not as easily able to identify a child while they are wearing a mask.

Another woman asked that masks be optional for children. She said that children have been involved in sports, summer camp and church opportunities without masks and that they shouldn’t be required to wear them when they head back to school. She also argued that children do not keep their masks clean or well-cared for and they are therefore ineffective. This woman’s husband spoke next, echoing concerns about masks and asking that children not be required to wear them.

“I honor and respect that some people feel

like they want to wear a mask, that’s fine. But the other side of that is, the respect has to go both ways,” said another man, imploring the board to make masks optional.

Baldwin said that because face coverings would be a local option, according to the new guidance from the state level that will take effect July 30, he has been in regular conversation with Macon County Public Health Director Kathy McGaha about the best course of action moving forward.

“Based on the current level of COVID-19 transmission in our community, she does not recommend starting the school year off requiring face coverings,” said Baldwin.

Baldwin noted that this recommendation is based on current transmission rates, and there are several weeks before school starts.

Baldwin and McGaha will continue to monitor the situation in order to make the safest decision for Macon County Schools.

“She and I will continue to monitor the COVID transmission rate in our community and will also discuss parameters and thresholds regarding what level of transmission within the community, what level of transmission within the schools might lead us to have a temporary face covering requirement at some time,” said Baldwin.

Baldwin said that while he and McGaha would continue to monitor the situation, they were hopeful Macon County Schools would begin the school year without a facecovering mandate. The board will discuss the matter further at their Aug. 16 meeting.

August 4-10, 2021

Jackson County Schools will begin the 2021-22 school year with a mask mandate for all students, staff and visitors, with a plan to reassess the mandate regularly as the school year progresses.

Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers presented the school board with three options for masking to start the 2021-22 school year. Option A would require masks for all students and staff grades K-12. Option B would follow Gov. Roy Cooper’s guidance and require masks for all students and staff in grades K-8, as well as unvaccinated students and staff in grades 912. Option C would make masks optional for everyone.

Regardless of which option the board chose, Ayers laid out a schedule for the decision to be reassessed at board meetings throughout the school year. When discussion opened up to the board, member Wes Jamison asked, “If you’re unmasked and a student tests positive for COVID, that classroom is basically shut down, is that correct?”

Ayers confirmed that was correct.

According to current health guidelines in the Public Health Toolkit, if students are unmasked in a classroom and one of those students tests positive, all students in the classroom would be considered a close contact and would have to be quarantined for at least 10 days.

According to the Toolkit guidelines, anyone who is fully vaccinated, and has no symptoms of COVID-19, does not need to quarantine after having close contact with an infected person. The same is true for people who have not been vaccinated, as long as the subjects were appropriately and consistently distanced and wearing masks.

“I think all of us feel that we would like to keep the schools open and the classrooms open as much as we can,” said Board Chairwoman Ali Laird-Large.

Large noted that if masks were optional, it would be difficult to ascertain who is vaccinated and who is not.

“It’s most important for our kids to be in the classroom five days a week, because we did not get that for the last year and a half,” said Board Member Abigail Clayton.

The board decided to go with option A, requiring masks for all students, staff and visitors indoors. They felt this option would give students in Jackson County Schools the best

chance at in-person instruction, five days per week. Elizabeth Cooper made the motion, which was seconded by Clayton.

“I want to make everyone aware that we will be revisiting this,” said Laird-Large.

According to Ayers’ plan, the decision will be reassessed at the Sept. 28, Nov. 23, Jan. 25 and March 22 board meetings.

“That doesn’t mean it can’t be discussed at every meeting, but it will be on the agenda at those meetings,” said Ayers.

“I think we all hope that this isn’t something that has to continue the entire school year,” said Clayton.

JCPS athletic programs will follow current NCHSAA guidelines. However, after July 30, the requirement for athletes to wear masks during indoor activities will become a local option. The board delegated this issue to school administration.

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members of the school board had previously tried to buck state requirements and allow children to attend summer school mask-free.

“It’s ridiculous as the board members yourselves that are making the rules and handing them down to these children. You have to stop. If these children, the parents that pay your paychecks, vote for you and put you on the board. We’re asking you to please, as residents of the county to stop,” said Rachel Price.

Parents that were pleading with the board to keep masks mandatory for students and staff cited the safety of children, as well as teachers and staff. They said that until everyone, including children under the age of 12, had the chance to get vaccinated, the safest option would be to keep wearing masks.

“Children need their education and social activities, and parents need to get back to work. The best way for these things to happen is for students and teachers to stay healthy,” said Virginia Moe. “If our schools become sources of contagion, no learning will take place when people are sick. Your responsibility is teaching and learning. You are on the school board because you care about Haywood County. You care about the citizens. You care about the students and the teachers. We are relying on you as our school leaders to keep our schools safe places where students can learn.”

Natasha Bright asked that a mask mandate remain in place, until parents who would like to vaccinate their children have the opportunity to do so.

After a long meeting of input from the public and Haywood County Health officials, discussion amongst board members was brief.

“It has been our desire since the beginning to make sure our children are treated fairly, respectfully and to do what’s right for them in every decision we make. So we appreciate you all being here and giving us your input,” said Rev. Bobby Rogers.

Board members David Burnette and Jimmy Rogers echoed thanks to the community for sharing input and thoughts on the issue.

“My personal goal is to make sure that every person is treated fairly, that we protect our rights and our freedoms, and at the same time try to protect the health and the welfare of all the students and educate them. And that’s a fine line and hopefully we do what’s best for the children,” said Burnette.

Chairman Chuck Francis expressed his personal view concerning politicization of the issue at hand, as well as that of establishments at large.

“I feel like this has become highly politicized, unfortunately,” said Francis. “And unfortunately, I think some of our scientific communities nationwide have fallen prey to politics at times and unfortunately it’s caused a lot of emotions. The establishments that we trusted and we lived our whole lives looking for guidance, has somewhat let me down and I feel like we’ve come to a point in our nation where we need to protect those that cannot be protected, our children.”

Francis then suggested that Haywood County Schools start the school year without a mask mandate.

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Delta variant rolls back pandemic progress

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ike much of the U.S., North Carolina’s efforts to recover from the COVID-19 Pandemic are backsliding as the Delta Variant of the virus has caused cases to trend upward once again.

COVID-19 testing, positive cases, hospitalizations and deaths are once again on the rise after a couple of months of declining stats that had a majority of people returning to their normal lives without masks. As of Aug. 3, seven Western North Carolina counties are already in the red zone as far as case counts, with Haywood still in the orange and Macon County about to go into the orange.

“The Delta Variant has become a game changer. The number of North Carolinians in the hospital with COVID-19 has more than doubled in the last two weeks, the 14-day rolling average of new daily cases has increased nearly 200%, the positivity rate is at its highest in more than five months and we’re starting to see clusters and outbreaks again. We have had more cases in the last two weeks than we’ve had in months,” Haywood County spokesperson Allison Richmond wrote in a press release.

On July 1, 391 people in N.C. were hospitalized with COVID-19 related illness. On Aug. 1, 1,359 people were hospitalized. On July 1, 296 new COVID-19 cases were reported. On Aug. 1, 3,302 new cases were reported.

Haywood Regional Medical Center now has 13 COVID-19 related admissions with several patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, according to Haywood County Medical Director Dr. Mark Jaben.

“Mission’s numbers are up and so are the numbers at Harris,” he said. “Looking at the numbers from over the weekend we continue to see an upswing and there’s nothing to indicate it’s even beginning to level off.”

August 4-10, 2021

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Haywood County holds mass vaccination clinics at the fair grounds last spring. Vaccinations are still readily available throughout Western North Carolina. File photo

Looking at the people who have tested positive for the virus in the last several weeks, Jaben said the age ranges have been about the same — about 20 percent of each age group.

On the other hand, about 97 percent of positive cases are occurring in the unvaccinated population.

“That’s the group that’s going to bear the brunt of this variant,” he said. “There are breakthrough cases of vaccinated people testing positive, but those cases have been mostly mild or asymptomatic.”

Two more clusters were reported in Haywood on Tuesday morning — Woodland Baptist Church in Waynesville and at Shelton Laurel Salvation Army in Fines Creek.

Outbreaks were reported July 16 at Haywood

Nursing & Rehabilitation and Haywood Lodge & Retirement Center’s Spicewood Cottages facility in Waynesville.

While N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper has not called for another mask mandate across the state, many government agencies, businesses and individuals have taken it upon themselves to institute their own mask policies based on the most recent recommendations from the CDC. As of Aug. 2, masks are once again required inside of all Haywood County facilities. This requirement does not impact the Haywood County Justice Center — decisions regarding that building will be made by the court system.

Hospitals that had loosened up on visitor

Delta surge comes to Harris Smoky Mountain News

Nearly all patients unvaccinated

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BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER Dr. Ben Guiney wasn’t sure what he’d find when he showed up for his weekend shifts at Harris Regional Hospital last week.

“I’ve heard it’s not good,” he said by phone Friday, July 30. “It’s already been super busy, and you throw COVID on top of it, and it’s going to be a mess.”

After working a pair of night shifts in the emergency room that weekend, Guiney saw that prediction prove true.

“I was blown away by how many COVID patients are coming out of nowhere,” he said Monday.

He’s seeing a range of cases, from people who are extremely sick and need lots of oxygen for even a shot at a positive progno-

sis to those who go home soon after arriving. Unlike over the winter, the sickest patients are those in their 50s and 60s, because the older people are nearly all vaccinated. Statewide, 84% of people 65 and older are vaccinated, compared to 55% of the eligible population 12 and older.

Guiney has seen only one breakthrough case, a fully vaccinated Ben Guiney person who was sick with COVID-19 but “just basically had a cold,” he said.

“It’s been called a pandemic of the unvaccinated,” he said. “It’s all unvaccinated people we’re seeing.”

The surge has Guiney worried, because it’s coming at a time when the hospitals were already pretty full with patients bat-

tling illnesses other than COVID-19. While there’s “all kinds of speculation” as to why that is, said Guiney, the result is that he’s “been so scared that we’re going to have COVID on top of this.”

To complicate matters, the hospital is short-staffed, so too often there aren’t enough nurses to open up more beds.

As of Aug. 2, there were only 52 ICU beds in the entire 17-county western region that were empty and staffed for use, as well as 420 empty staffed inpatient beds, according to the state’s COVID-19 dashboard. The report showed that 118 ICU beds and 966 inpatient beds are in use. Guiney hopes the hospital will be able to handle the growing number of cases.

“They (patients) just start stacking up and it’s terrible,” he said. “You go over your resources pretty fast and you’re scrambling and you’re scared that you won’t be able to

restrictions during the pandemic have now gone back to stricter guidelines to prevent spread. As of Friday, July 31, Haywood Regional Medical Center is limiting visitation to one person per patient at a time and prohibiting visitors under 18 years old. Visitors are not allowed in the emergency room to visit COVID-19 positive patients. Visitors will continue to be checked for symptoms upon entering the hospital and must wear masks the entire time.

“We continue to closely monitor the prevalence of the virus in our community as we adapt our operations to safely care for and support our patients. With increasing cases in our county, we feel additional visitor restrictions are an appropriate tac-

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handle something just because you only have so many people.”

It’s frustrating, Guiney said, because hospitalization for COVID-19 shouldn’t be necessary, as available vaccines are extremely effective at preventing severe sickness, even against the delta variant.

“I wish people realized that by them not getting vaccinated, they’re taking it out on us,” he said. “We still see these people whether they choose to be vaccinated or not, and when people choose not to get vaccinated, it’s not just them that are affected. It’s the hospital staff. People are like, ‘I don’t want to do this again. I’m done with this.’ It’s total PTSD from the winter.”

So far, COVID has followed a pattern of surging and waning, surging and waning — and that will continue until enough people have immunity to keep the disease at bay.

“It’s like a forest fire,” said Guiney. “You can’t just stop at the county line. You have to put the whole thing out, or otherwise it will just keep coming.”

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“The importance of getting the vaccine can’t be overstated enough.

We’re not at the surge level we were in the winter, but we have a relatively small ICU and a relatively small staff, so it only takes a little bit of a deviation from our normal to find ourselves at capacity.”

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tic at this time,” said HRMC CEO Greg Caples.

“As always, our hospital’s top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our patients, providers, employees and community. We continue to encourage everyone who can get vaccinated to do so to help stop the spread.”

Steve Heatherly, CEO of Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital, said they’ve seen more inpatient COVID-19 cases in the last few weeks, but not yet at the same levels as the hospitals experienced last winter. Based on a survey he conducted a few days ago, a vast majority of positive cases being hospitalized have been unvaccinated.

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August 4-10, 2021 Smoky Mountain News

“The importance of getting the vaccine can’t be overstated enough,” Heatherly said.

“We’re not at the surge level we were in the winter, but we have a relatively small ICU and r a relatively small staff, so it only takes a little bit of a deviation from our normal to find ourselves at capacity. There have been times in the past month we’ve been unable to admit additional patients to the ICU based on the mix of patients and staff.”

When mask mandates were lifted earlier this year, the scientific data was showing that fully vaccinated people were less likely to transmit the virus, but that all changed with the Delta variant circulating.

“With the original virus, we knew if a person was asymptomatic and infected, there was only a 10 percent chance of them passing it on, but we don’t know yet what that percentage is for the Delta variant, but we do know it’s four to five times more contagious than the original,” Jaben said.

Jaben can assume the number of positives is probably underreported because people just aren’t getting tested and assuming it’s just a cold or allergies. He said contact tracing has also been challenging lately, with up to 40% of positive cases won’t answer the phone or provide any information when health officials contact them.

“We can expect that what we’re seeing now will go on for next two to three weeks because of the incubation period,” he said.

“Our only saving grace maybe is that the population at most risk is half of what it was last year because half are now vaccinated.”

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When town hall is empty Boards debate merits of in-person, remote meetings

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER fter a mass migration from boardrooms to cyberspace last spring, one by one Western North Carolina’s public bodies have transitioned back to in-person meetings — with the exception of Sylva’s town board.

But for a frigid outdoor meeting April 1 to handle a pair of zoning issues, the Town of Sylva has met exclusively via Zoom since the pandemic began. There are a few reasons for that, board members said.

Commissioner Ben Guiney, who is an emergency room doctor at Harris Regional Hospital, said that for a long time he’d been pushing to remain virtual as case numbers stayed too high for his liking.

“We were going to go back to in-person meetings for this previous meeting,” added Commissioner Mary Gelbaugh, “but we had two of the board members who would have been unable to attend had we gone to an inperson meeting.”

Keeping the meeting virtual meant those board members could attend regardless of their summertime comings and goings.

The board was planning to hold its first indoor, in-person meeting since March 2020 for

August 4-10, 2021

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Sylva commissioners log in for a remote meeting July 22.

Town of Sylva image

an Aug. 12 Board of Adjustments meeting. But on Aug. 2, the town announced that “due to the rising COVID-19 cases in Jackson County,” this meeting, too, would occur via Zoom.

“Clearly right now it’s a bad idea to start going back in person, with cases going crazy,” said Guiney.

In the seven-day period ending Aug. 2, Jackson County recorded 88 new cases, and Guiney said he’s seeing a steady stream of COVID patients in the emergency room, nearly all unvaccinated. Guiney himself has had both the illness and the vaccine but said he doesn’t want to risk getting it again and is nervous about what might happen if the public is allowed in the boardroom.

“One of the things that I have not wanted to contend with is this mask fighting, where someone is refusing to wear a mask and they should be,” he said. “I don’t want to get into that. I don’t want to get into that fight.”

CHANGING THE CONVERSATION Until the pandemic hit, elected bodies didn’t have clear legal authority to meet remotely. In fact, in the months prior to the pandemic Jackson County was engaged in a lively debate over what to do if a commissioner simply stops attending meetings. For most of 2019, then-Commissioner Mickey Luker was absent from the boardroom, though he often called in via speakerphone. His absence had constituents in Cashiers calling for his removal from office.

“Regardless of whether you phone in or not, it’s important that the representative that was voted in attends the meetings, the work sessions, beyond just a phone call to engage people with pros and cons and how you feel about whatever issue is being debated,” Mark Letson, a Republican who narrowly lost a 2020 election bid to replace Luker,

said in an October 2019 interview. “You want that one-on-one contact. That’s what he signed up for. That’s what he should fulfill.”

But the pandemic turned such conventional wisdom on its head. In May 2020, new legislation explicitly allowed public bodies to meet electronically as long as North Carolina is under a State of Emergency. When the pandemic first hit, many public bodies outright cancelled their meetings, but then most of them turned to Zoom or YouTube to resume public business.

However, not all public bodies cut out the in-person component completely, as Sylva did. From the beginning, Jackson County used a hybrid format, with commissioners masked and socially distanced inside the boardroom and a limited number of seats available for members of the public. Down the hall, an overflow room allowed additional space for people to

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“There’s no exchange in public comment. You just listen. I don’t feel like we’ve missed out on that. I think it’s also allowed more people to participate in the meetings.”

— Sylva Commissioner Ben Guiney

When Sylva does eventually return to inperson meetings, livestream broadcast will continue. The town’s 2021-22 budget included about $13,500 for recording and broadcasting equipment. It’s been ordered, said Town Manager Paige Dowling, and should be operational in a couple of weeks.

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As long as Gov. Roy Cooper’s State of Emergency remains in effect, public bodies can continue meeting remotely without an option for in-person attendance. But while streaming and a virtual option for comments will still be allowed once the state of emergency ends, elected boards will no longer have the authority to supplant in-person meetings with remote ones, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill David. M. Lawrence Distinguished Professor of Public Law and Government Frayda Bluestein wrote in a recent article for the respected UNC School of Government blog Coates’ Cannons.

“Before the SOE (state of emergency) law, there were no specific rules about board members participating remotely,” she wrote.

“The SOE law set out specific rules for remote participation, and the use of remote meetings has become a regular practice during the pandemic. Remote public access to meetings in many places has increased. But those SOE law rules expire when the state of emergency ends.”

However, with cases rising as the delta variant spreads through the unvaccinated population, the immediate future may see a return to mid-pandemic practices rather than a move toward pre-pandemic norms.

“I hope that if people will increase their vaccination rates and people will mask up and continue safety precautions, then maybe we can get through this fall or winter without having to go backwards,” said McMahan.

“But ultimately we may have to go backwards and mask up again and do all the kinds of things we saw last year.”

August 4-10, 2021

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gram and CARES Act funding, has 170 views.

The sole meeting streamed to the town’s Facebook page, a July 27, 2020, discussion that included extensive public comment and a vote on the future of Sylva’s Confederate statue, has a whopping 8,600 views.

“I feel like I’ve gotten increased emails from the public and phone calls not being in person, but as you know we never really had a strong attendance unless there was a major issue,” said Gelbaugh.

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watch the meeting, broadcast via Zoom.

People could also attend from home, in the early days by procuring the Zoom link and later on by watching on YouTube. The board accepts both written and oral comments, delivered either in person or via Zoom. Since mid-May, streaming has continued but masking and distancing requirements were no longer in effect for the boardroom.

“All aspects of the meeting actually are easier when it’s live in person as opposed to live remote,” said Jackson County Chairman Brian McMahan. “It can be done, and I’m very thankful for technology and very thankful that we have these options. If we hadn’t it would have created a huge problem, but it’s easier in person.”

Waynesville Alderman Anthony Sutton agrees.

“Our population in Waynesville, a large majority of them do not have access to broadband, and we wanted all of our constituents to be able to participate in the meetings,” he said. “Even those people that could phone in, it’s not the same as being there. We had public comments for a while that you had to write tit in. Now I think it’s best just to be able to liseten to the constituents as much as they like to talk.”

- For about a month and a half at the beginwning of the pandemic, Sutton said, the board used Zoom to broadcast its meetings from atown hall. After that, it went back to in-per-son meetings, with the room’s capacity tincreasing over time as CDC guidelines fchanged. Now, Waynesville’s meetings are ineperson only — with no livestreaming or video archive — though audio recordings are eavailable upon request after the fact. This ayear’s budget includes funds to revamp town yhall’s audio and visual equipment. s e s UALITY OF COMMUNICATION n Sutton believes that communication is better in person, with people “generally more hospitable” to each other when speaking faceto-face.

“I will be honest with you — a lot of the people don’t really feel comfortable speaking in the public comment section, but they know that you’re going to be there, so they’ll wait to talk to you after the meeting,” he said.

But in Guiney’s view, public input doesn’t suffer in a remote meeting — though he allowed that he’d only been on the board four months before the pandemic started.

“There’s no exchange in public comment,” he said. “You just listen. I don’t feel like we’ve missed out on that. I think it’s also allowed more people to participate in the meetings.”

Pre-pandemic, it wasn’t unusual for the only people attending a Town of Sylva meeting to be two reporters from The Smoky Mountain News and The Sylva Herald.

Meetings with more controversial items on the agenda, meanwhile, could draw a crowd that overwhelmed the boardroom’s 75-person fire code capacity. By contrast, the leastviewed video on the town’s YouTube page currently has 11 views, with most videos garnering 20-40 views. The most-viewed video, an Aug. 13, 2020, meeting that included long discussions about the town’s Main Street pro-

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news August 4-10, 2021 Smoky Mountain News 14

Community Solar Cuts Power Bills Nature never did betray the heart that loved her. —William Wordsworth, 1798

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wo community solar programs are the first in North Carolina to reduce power bills significantly for households, businesses, and government. Subscribers to community solar have no equipment to install because the solar farm is connected to a power company grid, whether rural electric cooperative or Duke. According to the solar clearinghouse Energy Sage, community solar subscribers see power bills drop by five to ten percent.

Begun in November 2019, the City of Fayetteville program is administered by the city’s Public Works department. Anyone can subscribe, including renters as well as homeowners, businesses, non-profits, schools and local government.

Monthly savings always exceed the nominal monthly fee of $1.53. As more entities sign on, subscriber savings increase. See the Fayetteville Public Works Community Solar page: www.faypwc.com/community-solar Thanks to two bulk-purchasing campaigns in Buncombe County, community solar is lowering power bills for schools and colleges, local governments, and many businesses and households. The first campaign (2019-2020) funded a program for the city, county, public schools and AB Tech. Savings are impressive. Previously, Asheville schools paid over $832,000 annually

on electricity. Adding solar reduced that bill by over $142,000.

This year the second campaign, Solarize Asheville-Buncombe, is offering community solar for renters, homeowners, and businesses.

The program was created by a coalition including MountainTrue, Green Opportunities, the City of Asheville, the Blue Horizons Project, Sierra Club, and others. See https://solarizeashevillebuncombe.com

AN INCOME BOOST FOR FARMERS LEASING LAND – BUT MAKE IT LOW-IMPACT Many farmers have land appropriate for large “low-impact” solar installations, which preserve topsoil and native cover crops. Farmers can still grow certain crops, raise bees or graze small animals around the panels. Sheep, most cattle breeds, and horses of non-draft breeds work well. No goats, however: they climb on the equipment! Suitable crops are those grown and harvested by hand or with small machinery: bedding plants, nursery plants, vegetables, and small fruit trees or shrubs. Some crops even have better yields under or near solar arrays. See “Beneath Solar Panels, the Seeds of Opportunity Sprout” www.nrel.gov/news/features/2019/beneath-solar-panels-the-seeds-of-opportunitysprout.html The US Department of Agriculture Rural Development Rural Energy Program for America

(REAP) provides grants and loans to landowners: www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/ruralenergy-america-program-renewable-energysystems-energy-efficiency/nc?pid= Farmers’ concerns are explained in the USDA publication “Considerations for Transferring Agricultural Land to Solar Panel Energy Production”: https://craven.ces.ncsu.edu/considerations-for-transferring-agricultural-land-tosolar-panel-energy-production

HOW TO GET COMMUNITY SOLAR Community solar programs can be started and run by a rural electric cooperative, local government or private-public coalition. An entity contracts with a solar business to install and maintain equipment on a site owned by government or leased from a private landowner. Interested groups should contact the NC Clean Energy Technology Center at NC State University. https://nccleantech.ncsu.edu/ourwork/energy-sustainability-services/ For community solar funding options, consult the WNC energyCAP (Energy Cost-share Assistance Program), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit partnership of four WNC Resource Conservation and Development Councils: www.energyCAP.org Eliza Stokes, Mountain True representative to Solarize Buncombe, recommends creating a broad coalition. She urges citizens, “Don’t wait for government to do it.” Local officials might

lack time or resources. To interest them, she explained, “a coalition should first understand the dynamics of businesses and elected officials’ concerns.

What is their number one priority ? cost savings, jobs creation, or climate mitigation? Research their challenges and those of their constituencies. Find out who pays the power bills for local schools. Talk with officials about the benefits of community solar. Local governments will appreciate your doing the work for which they might not have time or funds. Bulk purchasing and getting several entities to commit also helps cut government’s costs.”

• Note: A solar farm in Bethel is not community solar; a private company sells power directly to Duke. See Smoky Mountain News Dec, 9, 2015: “Solar Farm Comes to Bethel.” https://smokymountainnews.com/archives/it em/16850-solar-farm-comes-to-bethel • https://wncclimateaction.com • twitter: @wncaction — By WNC CAC member and column editor Mary Jane Curry • mjcinwnc@gmail.com

Audit finds Waynesville electric bills were accurate

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age weather, a 5 percent rate increase passed the previous summer and staff illnesses, as well as a series of hardware and software failures.

The town immediately halted disconnections and waived late fees on overdue accounts, while a new printer was purchased, and a new bill format was introduced.

Feichter then requested a $19,000 outside evaluation by consulting firm WithersRavenel. Originally, the evaluation was to evaluate 300 residential electric and solar customers, but the firm widened that to include all of the town’s approximately 2,500 customers.

WithersRavenel was selected, in part, due to previous experience using Munis, the town’s billing software package. Data from Munis was converted into a Microsoft spreadsheet, and then sorted by customer, cycle and date.

Included in the report is a graph, outlining the sum of billed usage over the past three winters, from 2019 through 2021.

While usage for January and February of this year appeared normal, what happened in March and April wasn’t — usually a time of rapidly diminishing usage, bills issued for March didn’t decline because February and March were much colder than in 2020.

Complicating matters, a software failure on the handheld devices that town employees use to read household electric meters resulted in data loss for February.

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four years, but County Manager Don Adams said he had been extending it on a year-to-year basis after its expiration.

“I’ve been in conversations with Mr. Faulk for a couple of years,” Adams said. “A couple of years ago he was really contemplating retirement at that point. I was trying to buy time to see what Mr. Faulk wanted to do. I guess it was probably around six to eight months ago it was discovered that he was still interested in proceeding forward with the contract.”

At that point Adams, Detention Center Captain Patrick McCoy and Department on Aging Director Eddie Wells sat down to discuss how to move forward, ultimately deciding to go through an informal bidding process in which they would reach out to companies with capacity to provide the service. During the June 8 work session, they presented commissioners with the four bids they had received in response.

In addition to Skillet and Faulk, the county received bids from Mountain Projects and Charlotte-based TRIO Community Meals. In the bid form, the county had asked each company to quote a price per meal for a contract that would

— Jon Feichter, Waynesville alderman

When meters were read again in March, those cumulative figures included actual usage for February rather than estimated usage. That, coupled with a longer-than-average billing cycle and a colder-than-average March, resulted in bills that initially shocked some customers.

The final section of the report includes a include a minimum of 39,520 meals per year — 150 per day, five days a week — for the Department on Aging and 54,750 meals per year — 150 per day, seven days a week — for the jail. The price was to be inclusive of any non-food costs such as packaging and delivery. The companies would have access to the county’s kitchen area.

Jackson County Justice Center.

Skillet was not the lowest bidder overall, but it was the lowest bidder to provide an offer that included three hot meals per day for the jail. Skillet said it would charge $5.57 for Department on Aging meals and $5.83 for meals at the jail, which would add up to $543,092 per year at the 150-meal minimum stated for each agency. The company also outlined a sliding-scale pricing system such that per-meal prices could vary

between $3.97-$8.11 for the jail and $4.98$7.04 for the department on aging depending on the number ordered.

Mountain Projects entered a lower overall bid of $521,733.30 for the minimum order, which included $5.79 per meal at the Department on Aging and $5.35 for meals at the jail. However, that $5.35 figure was for two hot meals and one cold lunch each day — the organization did not include a bid for three hot meals per day.

During a June 8 work session on the issue, Adams said that serving hearty meals in the jail has an important impact on inmate behavior and safety.

The current vendor, B & Al, offered a significantly higher per-meal price of $6.25 across the board, which would have cost $589,187.50 for the minimum order. The fourth bid, from TRIO Community Meals, was even higher, at $8.15 per meal.

Adams told commissioners July 13 that Skillet is willing to use employees working under the current contract to provide the services, and that the positions will offer higher pay than before, with benefits.

The new contract will become effective Oct. 1.

Smoky Mountain News

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER or the first time in six years, Jackson County will have a new vendor providing meals at its jail and senior center after commissioners voted unanimously July 20 to award the contract to Georgiabased Skillet Kitchen.

The company currently manages 35 kitchens in four states, including locations in Swain, Macon, Cherokee, Clay, McDowell, Lincoln, Cleveland and Gaston counties in North Carolina as well as several North Georgia counties, feeding 9,000 inmates 575,000 meals a week.

“We’re very qualified in this area because we have so much around here,” Skillet Vice President Matt Eubanks said during a June 13 work session. “Our district manager actually lives in Hayesville. Our territory manager lives in the general area as well. We have a lot of backup support. In the food service industry in the last year, year-and-a-half, having a backup plan has been important.”

Since 2015, Sylva-based B and Al’s LLC, owned by John Faulk, had held the kitchen contracts. The 2015 contract was good for

“My concerns were that there was something structurally wrong with the way the town was reading meters that resulted in some kind of significant malfunction. It appears based on the info that the auditors proved that that was not happening.”

list of recommendations based on observations made during the audit, including standardizing billing cycles by establishing workflow deadlines for every person who participates in the billing process and providing greater oversight of the billing technician by the town’s finance director.

“By and large, I believe the recommendations WithersRavenel made make sense.

There were some policy and procedure elements that if we implemented would be one part of the whole package of action that we need to take to make sure this doesn’t happen again,” Feichter said. “I am looking forward to the possibility of taking a deep look at those recommendations and if staff believes they would be helpful, I would absolutely support that.”

Beyond those recommendations, Feichter said that there are still plenty of things the town is doing to ensure that the winter of 2022 is not a repeat of the winter of 2021.

“We’re doing things above and beyond what WithersRavenel presented. We’ve purchased new handhelds. We’ve updated billing software. We’ve filled meter reader staff positions,” he said. “Taken together, those kinds of steps plus the policy and procedure recommendations WithersRavenel suggested, I am confident the mistakes that were made will not be repeated.”

Feichter said the town will remain flexible on repayment arrangements for customers having trouble with the bills.

August 4-10, 2021

Jackson jails, senior center to get new food vendor

February’s bills, issued in March, were lower than they should have been, because they were estimated using a customer’s 12month consumption average. That average is lower than what most people normally use in February, a cold-weather month.

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BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR he results from an independent audit of the Town of Waynesville’s electric billing process are in and despite speculation to the contrary, audit findings show that no customer was charged for power they didn’t actually consume.

“I think the report we got from the audit firm is an important piece of information, part of the puzzle, if you will. What that confirmed for me is the fact that there was not one single thing that caused this issue,” said Jon Feichter, the Waynesville alderman who requested the audit. “My concerns were that there was something structurally wrong with the way the town was reading meters that resulted in some kind of significant malfunction. It appears based on the info that the auditors proved that that was not happening.”

Waynesville is one of few North Carolina towns that operates its own electric concern, buying power at cheaper wholesale rates and passing it along to customers. Back in April, the town began receiving an abnormally high number of complaints about electric bills being larger than expected.

As aldermen and town officials began to investigate the veracity of the complaints, a number of possible contributing factors were suspected but none was definitively proven to be the culprit.

Those factors included colder-than-aver-

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Report reveals Cawthorn gun gaffe

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR ongressman Madison Cawthorn attempted to bring a firearm though airport security this past February, but the freshman Western North Carolina rep insists it was a simple mistake.

“Four months ago, while boarding a flight, Rep. Cawthorn erroneously stowed a firearm in his carry-on (that often doubles as a range bag) instead of his checked bag,” Cawthorn spokesman Micah Bock told The Smoky Mountain News. “The firearm was secured, and unchambered. Rep. Cawthorn endeavors to always follow TSA guidelines, and quickly rectified this situation before boarding his flight.”

The incident was brought to light in a recording of radio traffic between law enforcement officers at Asheville Regional Airport that was obtained through a public records request by a super PAC dedicated to Cawthorn’s ouster.

David Wheeler, president of American Muckrakers PAC, said he learned of the incident from an anonymous source. Details, including the recording and a heavily redacted police report dated Feb. 13, were published July 29 on the PAC’s website, www.firemadison.com.

In the recording, one officer can be heard directing another to respond to a report of a firearm at the airport’s security checkpoint.

“Just to advise, it’s going to be an elected official, Madison Cawthorn’s firearm,” the officer said.

“That doesn’t make a difference, you still gotta get the information,” another officer responded. “You got to have the proper channels to carry it through.”

Smoky Mountain News

August 4-10, 2021

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fter the incident was first reported in The Smoky Mountain News on July 30, questions swirled on social media as to whether or not Cawthorn received special treatment due to his status as the congressman who represents the district in which the airport is situated.

That doesn’t appear to be the case, however the speculation shows how misunderstood the role of the Transportation Security Administration is, and what actually happens when someone gets caught with a firearm at a TSA checkpoint.

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At the Asheville Regional Airport — abbreviated “AVL” — firearm ordinances from both the city of Asheville and the General Assembly apply, which means that firearms are prohibited unless secured and declared properly for travel.

“I think there is misperception that every situation results in criminal charges — most don’t,” said Tina Kinsey, AVL’s director of marketing, public relations and air service development. “In fact, we have had eight such incidents so far in 2021, and no crimi-

options.

“If after investigation it is determined that the passenger is allowed to legally possess a firearm, the firearm is legal, and there are no warrants or actions that indicate criminal intention, the passenger is given an option to be escorted from the screening area to properly secure their firearm elsewhere,” she said.

That’s the option that was given to Cawthorn, but with his flight soon to depart — the recording indicated he was seven

A February incident at Asheville Regional Airport involving Rep. Madison Cawthorn only recently came to light.

Jeffret Delannoy photo

nal charges were filed in any of the incidents.”

When a firearm is discovered at the TSA security checkpoint, standard procedure is for TSA to contact the Asheville Regional Airport Department of Public Safety, the airport’s own 24/7 police and fire department.

“In most cases when firearms are in carryon luggage at AVL, the traveler is a legally permitted gun owner who has forgotten that the firearm is in their bag,” said Kinsey.

“Discretion is used to police these matters in reasonable ways, focusing more on securing a firearm safely. Firearms are never allowed through security and onto planes.”

Kinsey explained that during enforcement actions, the airport’s DPS looks for “willful and intentional criminal intent” on a case-by-case basis.

When criminal activity is suspected, firearms are seized. When it’s not, the person in possession of the weapon has several

minutes away from being left behind — it was determined he wouldn’t have enough time to stow the firearm and make it back through security in time for departure.

Instead, Cawthorn voluntarily allowed airport DPS to store his weapon for him.

Airport DPS did just that, and Cawthorn picked it up nine days later, per DPS the incident report. Leaving the weapon with DPS for safekeeping is an option available to anyone not involved in criminal activity.

“It should be noted that TSA does not seize firearms. In every case, they contact law enforcement to handle the situation. TSA enforces federal civil penalties,” Kinsey said.

“That said, if criminal charges are filed, these are filed in the Buncombe County courthouse, because it would be a state charge.”

Thus far Cawthorn hasn’t been criminally charged, and it’s unlikely he will be, although that doesn’t mean there won’t be consequences.

Republican field for Cawthorn’s seat grows to five

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR On the heels of “Gungate” and a shouting match with a West Virginia congressman on the house floor, Western North Carolina Rep. Madison Cawthorn has drawn a fourth Republican Primary Election challenger.

Rod Honeycutt started off as a bagger at the Patton Avenue Bi-Lo in Asheville, and after graduating from Erwin High School enlisted in the U.S. Army. While enlisted, he earned a scholarship to the University of South Carolina, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

Recently, on July 1, he retired as a colonel.

On Aug. 1, Honeycutt announced his candidacy for the 16

11th Congressional District seat currently occupied by Cawthorn, who was elected in November 2020, after the sudden retirement of Rep. Mark Meadows. Like Meadows, Cawthorn has quickly become a nationally recognized figure.

“I will not watch from the sidelines as inexperienced, self-promoting characters seek to further careers while the hard-working men and women of WNC suffer the consequences,” Honeycutt says on his website, www.cuttforcongress.com. “Serving at the tip of the spear requires a steady hand and proven leadership.”

His website shows strong support for traditional Republican positions like smaller government, border secu-

Mark Howell is the TSA regional spokesperson for a six-state region that includes Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee and the Carolinas. He said that civil penalties are assessed in “almost every case,” albeit usually several months after the fact.

Although penalties can reach nearly $14,000, first-time offenders with good records are usually given fines in the $2,000 range for unloaded weapons, and $4,000 for loaded weapons. While Cawthorn’s Glock magazine was indeed loaded, he claims no round was chambered, so it’s not clear if the TSA would go with the higher or lower amount. Howell said the matter with Cawthorn is still pending.

Howell added that people in Cawthorn’s situation usually lose their TSA PreCheck status temporarily or permanently.

PreCheck allows approved travelers expedited boarding.

Another question raised on social media was whether the TSA attempted to bury the Cawthorn incident, but that doesn’t appear to be the case either.

First, the TSA does issue press releases from time to time when incidents occur at airports, however Howell said it’s not an automatic response to such incidents.

“The problem is volume. For example, I have Atlanta as one of my airports. They’ve had more than 260 guns so far this year,” Howell explained. “Every once in a while, I will put one [press release] out, especially if I see a trend developing in a certain market.

In fact, I’m working on one for Nashville to go out next week because they’re up over 80 already.”

Second, names aren’t usually mentioned in the releases for privacy reasons. Howell agreed to speak generally about Cawthorn because details of his interactions with AVL DPS had already become public record by virtue of American Muckrakers PAC’s disclosures.

Nationally, there were more than 3,200 firearms detected by TSA officers in 2020, despite dramatic COVID-related decreases in passenger volume that year. In 2019, TSA officers caught about five firearms per million passengers, but in 2020 that number doubled to 10 per million. According to TSA data, more than 80 percent of those firearms were loaded.

rity, enhanced funding and training for law enforcement, and a special focus on the mental health and homelessness issues that affect veterans.

On Aug. 2, Honeycutt told The Smoky Mountain News that he’d just registered to vote for the first time, citing his need to be apolitical while serving in the Army. His voter registration hasn’t yet shown up on the state’s voter lookup website, but Honeycutt says he lives in the northern part of Buncombe County, not far from the Madison County line.

Honeycutt joins a group of Republicans challenging Cawthorn that currently includes Asheville veteran Wendy Nevarez, Pisgah Inn owner Bruce O’Connell and Haywood County Sheriff ’s Deputy Eric Batchelor, a retired Lt. Col. who was wounded in the line of duty.

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House has been loved and looking for new owners to take it to the next level. Access off Plum Street, there is no driveway on Newfound.

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Leibfarth falls short of Olympic medal

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Bryson City paddler Evy Leibfarth navigates a kayak heat in Tokyo. ICF Photography photo

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be her last run in Tokyo, held at 1 a.m.

Thursday, July 29, Eastern Standard Time.

The penalties gave her a total time of 183.32 seconds, 72.73 seconds behind first place Jessica Fox of Australia, who would go on to earn a gold medal in the event. Great Britain’s Mallory Franklin took silver and Germany’s Andrea Herzog won bronze in what was the first-ever Olympic women’s canoe slalom event.

Despite not making the finals, Leibfarth said it was “an amazing experience” to race in the debut canoe slalom event.

“Thanks to all the other girls for making it so special,” she wrote in a July 31 Facebook post.

While this was her first Olympics, Leibfarth is no stranger to whitewater competition. In 2019, when she was still 15, she won two medals during a pair of World Cup events held in Europe and ranked in the top 10 in three additional events, making her the youngest athlete of any gender or nationality to win a Canoe Slalom World Cup medal.

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August 4-10, 2021

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ryson City Olympian Evy Leibfarth will leave Tokyo without a medal, but the 17-year-old is already setting her sights on the 2024 games in Paris.

“Didn’t have the runs I wanted this race, and ended up with 12th in K1 and 18th in C1,” Leibfarth said in a July 29 Facebook post. “Still so happy to have this amazing experience, and looking forward to taking what I’ve learned into the next races, and hopefully, the next Olympics! Thank you Tokyo.”

Leibfarth competed in the kayak and canoe slalom events — the only American woman to do so — and made the semi-finals in both. However, she did not qualify for either event’s final race. While she narrowly missed the kayak finals with a 12th-place time just 0.97 seconds behind the slowest qualifier in 10th place, Leibfarth came in last of the 18 canoe slalom semi-finalists after accruing 50 penalty seconds on what would

WE ARE OPEN Tues.-Sat. • 10-4 268-267

The federal moratorium on evictions was allowed to expire on July 31, bringing an end to protections enjoyed by tenants who couldn’t pay their rent during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Enacted in September 2020, the moratorium prevented summary ejectment proceedings from being adjudicated for non-payment, but not for holdovers, criminal activity or violations of the lease, like smoking, failure to maintain the property, or pets. To avail themselves of the protections, tenants had to sign a CDC affidavit declaring that they’d used their “best efforts” to obtain rental assistance from governments, earned less than $99,000 a year, lost substantial income during the pandemic due to unemployment or health care costs, would become homeless or have to utilize a shelter or acquaintance for housing, and had attempted to make timely partial payments. Rent forgiveness was never part of the equation, and tenants also had to attest that this was understood. Legal Aid, a statewide nonprofit, provides advice and sometimes representation to tenants who can’t otherwise afford it; in June, Legal Aid attorney Chase Wells told The Smoky Mountain News that once the moratorium ended, he expected “a lot more filings in a short period of time and a lot of fairly large money judgements against tenants who haven’t been paying.”

WALNUT VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER 331 Walnut Street Waynesville

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Eviction moratorium expires

828.246.9135 haywoodhabitat.org 17

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Smoky Mountain News August 4-10, 2021

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Community Almanac patients which will enable them to get to their numerous cancer care appointments n Helping Hands of Haywood to initiate the newly expanded Life Management Initiative n KARE, Inc. (Kids Advocacy Resource Effort) to address mental health, child maltreatment through prevention, investigation, examinations n Meridian Behavioral Health Services to provide Naloxone Kits (Narcan) n REACH of Haywood County to provide healthy snacks to seventh and eighth graders who are taught the “Safe Dates” Program n Real World Transitional LLC to provide assistance with accessing safe housing in early recovery while seeking employment n Southwestern Child Development Nurse Family Partnership serves lower income first time mothers regardless of age — provides books for the client to read to their children, toys to help the mother work with the child to promote developmental skills, purchase car seats, diapers and wipes Visit www.haywoodhealthcarefoundation.org or call 828.452.8343 for more information.

Dog beds needed The Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society is in urgent need of new Kuranda beds in the CHHS Canine Adoption Center.

Kuranda beds are the No. 1 dog bed preferred by shelters nationwide. The shelter’s dogs use the 35x23 size ($94) as well as the 40x25 size ($99), both in Royal Blue. Please consider giving the gift of comfort and donate a Kuranda bed for the CHHS shelter dogs by visiting https://tinyurl.com/d25wk3cy.

SEASCAT fundraiser in Sylva A fundraising event for SEASCAT.org will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, at Lifeway Church on Allen Street in Sylva.

SEASCAT is a local organization dedicated to helping survivors of child abuse by providing education to communities in Western North Carolina on the issues and struggles of survivors.

Most often, children raised in dysfunctional families leave home without any of the skills needed to find/keep a job, housing or relationships. SEASCAT is also an organizational member of the National Coalition for the Homeless, which includes trauma-informed care for those who need it in order to keep housing once it is found.

The fundraiser will include selling off things leftover from the last thrift store. Donations will be appreciated and will allow the organization to continue its work to help survivors become productive members of their communities.

Masks are encouraged and will be provided.

Harrah’s donates to Folds of Honor Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos announced the company will donate $70,000 to support Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that assists military families by providing educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members.

The donation comes from a two-month long fundraising event organized by Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Food & Beverage Manager, Alan Seay.

During the promotional period, for each 16 oz. Bud Light and Redneck Riviera cocktail purchased at Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos, $1 was donated to Folds of Honor.

Smoky Mountain News

This is the fifth consecutive year that Seay, also an Air Force Veteran, has organized this event. With this year’s donation doubling the funds raised in previous years, Seay says he is thrilled for the success of the event.

Folds of Honor’s educational scholarships support private education tuition and tutoring for children in grade K-12, in addition to higher education tuition assistance for spouses and dependents. For more information, visit www.foldsofhonor.org.

Haywood Healthcare Foundation grants The Haywood Healthcare Foundation Board of Trustees recently awarded $281,431 in grants to 14 agencies for healthcare needs in Haywood County.

The following agencies were awarded funds: n The EACH Initiative, Inc. to provide mental health counseling to adults and children in the EACH Program (Ending Area Child Homelessness) n Haywood County Health and Human Services Agency to provide “Pack-n-Plays” for the Safe Sleep Initiative; to provide critical dental care to indigent patients; nicotine patches and gum to adult patients in the public health clinic n Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market to compensate farmers for their donation of unsold produce or other foods to Haywood Gleaners n Haywood Pathways Center to provide two fulltime peer support specialist and one full-time family case manager n Haywood Regional Medical Center Cancer Service to provide nutrition services to patients, with all types of cancer, that don’t have insurance coverage for nutrition while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation n Haywood Regional Medical Center Cancer Navigator to provide gas cards to assist cancer

Housing Foundation awards $13,500 Through the work of Canopy Housing Foundation, Haywood County area Realtors are dedicated to grassroots support of area nonprofit organizations addressing housing and educational needs and awarded four area nonprofits with Community and Habitat for Humanity Grants totaling $13,500.

The EACH Initiative, Inc. (Ending Area Child Homelessness) received $3,000 to help provide subsidies for living expenses to families who were previously homeless and are now moving to a position of self-sustainability.

Haywood Pathways Center received $3,000 to provide one month’s rental relief for six families at an average cost of $500 per family, a continuation of their collaboration with the Haywood County Health and Human Services Agency.

Mountain Projects received $3,000 to be used to purchase a locking cargo travel trailer to safeguard tools for the development of affordable housing.

The Foundation’s Habitat Support Program awarded the Haywood County Habitat for Humanity $3,000 to purchase materials to frame a new home build on Sylvan Street in Waynesville.

In keeping with the educational partnership that area, Realtors have forged with Haywood County Schools Foundation two educational scholarships in the amount of $750 each were bestowed upon Tuscola High School graduate Lillian Howell and Pisgah High School graduate Andjelka Francis.

For more information about Canopy Housing Foundation, visit www.carolinahome.com.

Attend community health forum The public is invited to a community health forum from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12, at

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the Village Green Commons in Cashiers.

The forum will feature representatives of Blue Ridge Health, Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, Highlands Cashiers Hospital and MAHEC (Mountain Area Health Education Center).

Learn about the Plateau’s new primary care facility, hospital services, community health initiatives and doctor recruitment. Meet Dr. Ann Davis of Blue Ridge Health — Highlands Cashiers, conveniently located on the hospital campus on US 64 West. Hosted by the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce as part of its continuing commitment to serve as an information source for the community.

Limited seating. Please RSVP to office@cashiersareachamber.com.

Harrah’s hosts small business fair Mountain-West Small Business Resource Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 22 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee.

This is a free event to learn about resources in the region for recruiting, training and retaining employees. This is also your chance to voice labor concerns that will shape how the workforce agencies adapt their strategies to better help businesses in the area.

Connect with regional and statewide support agencies from 10 to 11 a.m. Learn about the CREATE BRIDGES Tourism, Retail, Entertainment and Accommodations Industry Research study from 11 a.m. to noon. Lunch and networking will be held from noon to 1 p.m. and from 1 to 3 p.m. participate in the CREATE ACADEMY to drive strategic planning for business and workforce development.

To register, visit go.ncsu.edu/mwbizfair. For more information, email canestore@ncsu.edu.

HIGHTS receives United Way grant HIGHTS (Helping Inspire Gifts of Hope, Trust, and Service) works with the community’s most vulnerable youth to provide essential clinical mental health services, workforce development, skill building programs, meaningful service opportunities, outdoor adventure activities, and mentoring.

This continuum of care covers the seven western counties of the state. HIGHTS’ goal is to help clients develop valuable skills, connect to a community who cares, and discover a sense of purpose, building blocks for a healthy and thriving life.

HIGHTS received an award from the United Way to provide community crisis respite services for youth in Haywood County. The pandemic exacerbated challenges youth face in accessing services and increased barriers to well-being. This grant gives HIGHTS the opportunity to address their critical needs.

To learn more about HIGHTS, visit hights.org. If you are interested in partnering with HIGHTS or would like to learn more about the programs, contact Paul Heckert at paul@hights.org.

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Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

The ‘new normal’ just isn’t acceptable

Cawthorn too inept to be in Congress To the Editor: Every time Rep. Madison Cawthorn speaks, I am reminded of the movie “Billy Madison” and the line: “ Mr. Madison, what you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.”

Following several actions and inactions by Congressman Cawthorn I can only come to a similar conclusion. He is too inept and does not possess the aptitude to retain his office.

While Madison may try to argue that I am calling the people of NC-11 inept for electing him, I’d simply like to point out this is not math so the transitive property doesn’t apply.

And Madison just so you understand, the transitive property is a math rule that states if a=b and b=c then a must also equal c. Now, I also understand I mentioned math and then

LOOKING FOR OPINIONS:

mate is being blamed for giant wildfires, catastrophic floods, worsening droughts, record-setting heat waves and various superstorms.

During our month-long road trip in July through New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Idaho and Montana, the air quality worsened noticeably as we headed north. When you drove out of steep, protected ravines and into flatter valleys, it was depressing, especially in one of the most beautiful places in this country — western Montana. At times the smoke clouded out everything, long stretches of highway where the towerEditor ing mountains on both sides of the valley were not even visible.

This is from a column in the Missoula, Montana, newspaper from late July:

Scott McLeod

“It’s the new normal.”

It was the husband who had spoken. The couple we had encountered were lean, fit and tanned, obviously spending a lot of time outdoors. We learned during our brief conversation that they resided in southern Utah. We were in the Adam’s Gulch area of the Sawtooth National Forest in Ketchum, Idaho, navigating our mountain bikes through some challenging boulder-strewn terrain; they were hiking the same area. Since we were headed opposite ways on the trail, our conversation started with questions about what lay ahead.

In the “it’s a small world” department, we learned their daughter had lived in Asheville for a time, her husband a brewer at one of the popular South Slope establishments.

The day we met them was a little hazy due to forest fires further west, but for those of us who live in the Smoky Mountains it didn’t seem too bad. For residents of arid southern Utah, though, the smoke from distant fires was discomforting and more than a little depressing.

“This is what we have been having for 10 years or so,” the husband continued, referring to smoke-filled summers that rob the high pine forests of the signature crisp, clear air and deep blue skies most of us associate with the Rockies. A friend lends them a Ketchum condominium for a week each summer, and they say the air quality due to fires has been consistently bad for the last decade.

As I sit on my porch at 3,600 feet just outside of Waynesville, it’s cool and cloudy, typical weather for this time of year. But this region is also afflicted by the wild weather vicissitudes that have been big news this summer but have been afflicting our planet for several decades as a warming cli-

“Now the region’s most precious perk is threatened by a warming planet and the drought, intense heat and erratic weather it’s causing. The raging fires, so big they are visible from space, are changing the physical landscape of the West. They’re blotting out the sky in this swath of the country and robbing the people of their time in nature. Last week, Missoula had the sixth-worst air quality in the nation. “… The long-term effects of choking smoke are only recently being examined and the evidence thus far is not good. A study underway in a nearby town of Seeley Lake, Mont., has shown a significant decline in lung function for residents who endured hazardous air quality back in the 2017 fires. In Alberta,

LETTERS used letters, it’s complicated, but you may have to take my word for it. Much like you will need to take the constituents of NC-11’s word for it when you are not reelected.

Your neighbor and constituent, Corey Bell Asheville

Giveaways get votes To the Editor: Lately we hear praise of Democrats and Joe Biden for spending trillions of dollars in aid to chosen groups. There is the Child Tax Credit bill, the American Rescue Plan, the Farm Aid bill to name a few. This aid is not given because Democrats are sympathetic, compassionate, concerned or benevolent. They are handouts shoveled out to get votes, retain power over people and for a good excuse to tax to the hilt everyone who has income. Do not think there are not stipulations for aided groups. White farmers need not apply for farm aid, parents of certain income levels receive no tax credit, Democrats that have bankrupted their blue state are bailed out in

Canada, new research revealed persistent lung damage in firefighters who battled a 2016 wildfire. Definitive research is pending, but it seems that smoke fallout could very well be the West’s — and then the country’s — next health epidemic.”

The scientific evidence is piling up around climate change, especially the droughts (which contribute to the wildfires) and the heat waves. According to U.S. Global Change Research Program, heat waves are three times more likely to occur now than in the 1960s. The length of these “heat wave seasons” on average are 47 days longer than in the 1960s. In large cities, the “urban heat island effect” — from concentrated energy released from buildings, cars and industries — is escalating. Some estimates say the fallout from climate change is costing the U.S. $100 billion a year in health care costs, storm damage and other efforts.

During our time out West in the upper Rockies the one constant was those pleading for rain. If it clouded up no one complained, and in fact locals all had the opposite response — they were overjoyed, hoping for precipitation to knock down the smoke and help with the fires. Unfortunately, I think we saw two good rains during our 30-day sojourn.

We can argue over the cause, but there’s no denying climate change is real. What we can do is pursue clean energy goals, reduce our own carbon footprint, and most of all pay attention to what’s happening. We live in one of the most beautiful places on earth, and we’ve improved our air quality over the last 20 years. I don’t want a return to horribly hazy days of the 1990s, having to tell visitors that it’s just “the new normal.”

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

aid bills to meet obligations because they no longer have state funds to do so.

Republicans are deemed bad, unfeeling and malevolent for not supporting some of these bills. The truth is under President Trump, with Republican support, jobs increased, needs for food aid decreased, manufacturing returned to the U.S hence more jobs, energy production was encouraged (more jobs) causing the U.S to be energy independent, unemployment figures reduced because there were jobs, trade deals like NAFTA were renegotiated to favor the

U.S., debtors to the U.S. like NATO were made to pay what is owed. Instead of handing out government money, Republican aid helps citizens earn, become independent and profit along with the country.

Presently there is an infrastructure bill before Congress. To most of

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The Smoky Mountain News encourages readers to express their opinions through letters to the editor or guest columns. All viewpoints are welcome. Send to Scott McLeod at info@smokymountainnews.com., fax to 828.452.3585, or mail to PO Box 629, Waynesville, NC, 28786.

Sometimes the plan is to not have a plan

us infrastructure means improvements and rebuilding roads, bridges, rail and even water and power supplies. Democrats have tied the infrastructure bill to a reconciliation bill. Reconciliation is a complicated Congressional process, but in this case it is first and foremost a Democrat wish list bill at the cost of $3.5 trillion. It is expected to deliver promises such as free community college, paid family leave, expanding child

tax credit, help with childcare costs, universal child care costs, climate change initiatives and immigration reforms. The bi-partisan infrastructure bill has a price tag of $579 billion which will add up to $4.1 trillion if the reconciliation bill is tacked on. Democrats are at it again … spend trillions for votes with many stipulations.

Carol Adams Glenville

Chris Cox

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Smoky Mountain News

some coffee, packing a lunch, choosing a beach access, and then setting up the canopy where I can read while watching Tammy and the kids — who are alarmingly no longer kids — throw a ball back and forth or float on the waves. We spend the day there, applying and then reapplying sunscreen, eating our lunches, going back and forth to the ocean half a dozen times.

When we run out of bottled water or somebody complains about getting hungry, we pack up and then start figuring out dinner while everybody waits in line to take a shower.

Tammy is good with this because she has planned it. I am good with it because I have not, nor am I stuck with somebody else’s plan. If I wanted to, I could jump on a bike and cruise on down Jungle Road for some ice cream. Or I could go back to our rental for a nap, or peak in on the British Open. Or I could go rent a kayak and go out on the water.

I can do whatever I like, and what I like — mostly — is just relaxing with my book, pausing from time to time to watch the birds: the pelicans in their formations, so regal and placid, and the seagulls diving and groveling for Cheez-its, squawking and complaining like a bunch of meth addicts.

I decide that watching the seagulls makes me kind of jittery, but watching the pelicans relaxes me. They drift through the sky, back and forth across the beach, seemingly aimless, almost effortless in their movements. They flap their wings once or twice maybe, but mostly they just glide, no particular place to go or to be, no pathetic displays to coax a few crackers from somebody.

We go to the beach every day, except for one day-trip to Charleston. We don’t want Tammy having any of those nightmares when we get home. My nightmare is having a vacation like one of those eighth-grade field trips to Washington, D.C., where you have a short time to see and do everything you can cram in, checking off landmarks one by one as you’re jerked from one thing to the next, barely in one place long enough to do anything more than snap a picture, like a desperate seagull trying to snatch a cracker.

At Edisto, I’m just gliding, baby, regal and placid. We didn’t miss a thing.

(Chris Cox is a teacher and writer who lives in Haywood County. jchriscox@live.com).

August 4-10, 2021

here is the dream my wife has every so often that haunts her. She’s on vacation and it’s the last day, time to pack up and go back home, and she realizes with this profoundly sick, panicky feeling that she hasn’t been to the beach even once and now it’s too late.

“Why do I always have this dream?”

“It’s a metaphor,” I say, because I’m an English teacher and think pretty much everything is a metaphor. “This is your life, it’s going by quickly, and Columnist you’re afraid you might be missing it.”

Then she’ll throw something at me.

Literally, not metaphorically. Because I’m mansplaining her dream, which in a way she asked for, but not really. Because when your spouse asks you, “Can you believe it?” the answer must always be, “No!” The answer must never be, “Well, yes I can believe it, and here’s why.” People who do not understand this basic principle of human relationships are destined to spend a lot of time alone playing word games or Tetris on their iPhones, wondering what went wrong and what happened to the rest of the vodka.

Even though we’ve been together nearly 18 years now, Tammy and I belong to two diametrically opposed groups: 1) those who require a plan for anything in order to feel comfortable and properly sorted; and 2) those who despise plans and are happy only when they are freewheeling it, whatever “it” may be.

One of the reasons I have overcome an aversion to the beach that reaches back over most of my life is that Edisto Beach is a great setting for my people — we call ourselves the “planless.” There is not much here to plan because there is nothing much to do, at least as “something to do” is normally measured by tourists. You can rent bicycles or go out on a boat for a better look at those dolphins. There are a few places to eat, but no chains and no real night life to speak of unless one of the restaurants has someone playing halting covers on an acoustic guitar over in the corner for tips.

Most days consist of sleeping in, having

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A&E Time machines, remembered scenes 22

Smoky Mountain News

Dave Schools of Widespread Panic

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & E NTERTAINMENT E DITOR hat started out 35 years ago as a handful of students at the University of Georgia getting together for the sake of playing music at college bars and fraternity parties has transformed itself into a bonafide American institution of rock-n-roll some four decades later.

Widespread Panic is a pillar of the jamband community, torchbearers of a genre pioneered by the likes of The Grateful Dead and The Allman Brothers Band.

The Athens, Georgia-based ensemble finds itself at the intersection of rock, blues, jazz and folk music — this heady blend of melodic fire and soul seated at the foundation of the rich, vibrant tapestry that is Southeast culture and history.

Co-founder of Widespread Panic, bassist Dave Schools is front and center in an ongoing musical conversation from both sides of the microphone, this whirlwind of intricate sound and intrinsic purpose. It’s something as timeless and familiar as it is spontaneous and fleeting — this shooting star of “you had to be there” moments only felt at a Panic show.

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Smoky Mountain News: Panic is now back on the road. Has it been kind of surreal to be back onstage and get back into the rhythm again?

Dave Schools: Yeah. We did a [pre-tour] rehearsal back in Athens, Georgia. We set up in a circle onstage at the Georgia Theatre, which is one of the venues where kind of got our sea legs playing back in the 1990s.

And, you know, I have nothing but gratitude, and it’s been that way for a really long time. COVID-19 withstanding, with the year and a half [of not performing], I feel gratitude every time I get onstage together. The rhythm of getting back onstage — it feels great.

SMN: Do you think performing means more to you now?

DS: Well, you know, I mean it’s a tough [industry] to work in. Back in 2004, I think we took a year and a half off. But, I was really busy most of the time with other projects, and then just actually learning how to be still for a while.

And that was kind of the big challenge over this last year and a half, you know? Just stopping was difficult. So, I noticed during rehearsals after the first day, maybe we sounded like a pretty decent cover band. And by the third day, we sounded like a tribute band. And then by the time we got around the full-purpose production rehearsals, it felt great.

The explosion of shared love for what it is we’re doing, it was an incredible feeling. And it’s something that’s unforgettable.

Widespread Panic. Bassist Dave Schools is far left. (photo: Joshua Timmermans).

SMN: So, it’s definitely not lost on you about what you get to do and how you are impacting the people around you?

DS: Definitely not lost, and certainly felt in spades. I mean, it was a physical thing.

SMN: With Panic celebrating 35 years together in 2021, what really sticks out about those early years in Athens, that kind of not knowing where this thing was going to go?

DS: We were those counterculture hippies that hated Reagan, Bush, and trickledown economics. And I’d say a lot of that is coming home to roost. But, really, we were still in college.

[Guitarist] Mikey [Houser] was desperately trying to finish. He’s the only one of us that graduated. He had a chemistry degree. I was trying to be a journalism person. And [lead singer John Bell], I think he was [an] English [major].

And we had these part-time jobs. I delivered flowers. Houser delivered pizza. JB worked at a nursery. [Drummer] Todd [Nance] painted houses. We all lived in a house and the best thing that could happen was that we were able to keep the electricity on — to keep our beer cold and keep our turntable running. It was fun. And we were able to live decently.

Athens was an inexpensive and super cool town. It still is to a certain degree. It’s definitely still super cool. [But, back then], things were

different. Maybe they’re just different because I felt they were at the time. Maybe they’re the same from a person who’s in their 20s trying to play music now.

Want to go?

Rock legends Widespread Panic will perform Aug. 6-8 at the ExploreAsheville.com Arena in the Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville.

Though the three-night run is sold out, other upcoming performances by the group still have tickets available. For more information on the band, its current tour and/or to purchase tickets, click on www.widespreadpanic.com.

[In the mid-1980s], a lot of the bands were coming through [Athens] and playing at the 40 Watt Club and the Uptown Lounge. Red Hot Chili Peppers. Jane’s Addiction. You could see all kinds of great music.

It was a time where we were able to experiment. We were able to put a band together and the artistic mentality in the town of Athens, Georgia, was such that you were encouraged to do anything you wanted — to try to be as unique and original as possible, even if that

meant catching holy hell from all the established artists in town.

SMN: What has the culmination of your experiences thus far, onstage and off, taught you about what it means to be a human being?

DS: Well, I tell a lot of young people that being in the music industry is the business of relationships. So, being a human being is respecting relationships and understanding that situations change. You don’t burn bridges.

You look for the best in people. And you really want to raise their potential.

And to just be open, you know? And this is coming from someone that was really uptight and not very open and super judgmental when I was younger. And it cost me — it’s just a lesson that I’ve personally learned.

So, I think it’s best to just expect the best and the most out of people. And if they’re struggling, you help them if you can. Seems pretty human. And I’ve had to learn that of my brothers, too.

It’s definitely something that’s improved in me onstage and in life. Being able to listen.

Being able to collaborate. Understanding what collaboration really is, which is accepting someone else’s opinion.

And I think the world could use a lot more of that, in all ways — music has definitely cracked me open in understanding that concept steps far beyond music.

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

It all comes back to you, you’re bound to get what you deserve

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HOT PICKS Grammy-winning singersongwriter Graham Sharp (of Steep Canyon Rangers), indie/rock act Pink Beds and other acts will perform on Saturday, Aug. 7, on the outdoor stage at Nantahala Brewing in Sylva.

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Popular Allman Brothers tribute act Eat a Peach will perform at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 6, at The Village Green in Cashiers.

3 4 5

Sarge’s 16th annual “Downtown Dog Walk” will be held at 9 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 7, on Main Street in Waynesville.

“The World’s Best” young Elvis Presley tribute, Travis LeDoyt will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 6, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

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A production of “The Last Romance” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6-7, 12-14, 1921, and at 2 p.m. Aug. 8, 15 and 22 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

Now Accepting New Patients!

August 4-10, 2021

pening up my email inbox last Friday morning, there was a press release from an entertainment publicist making note of the 25th anniversary that very day of Sublime’s multi-platinum self-titled album.

Rolling over in my disheveled bed, I popped up in my downtown Waynesville apartment and held the laptop in my hands, rereading the message. Heading over to my desk, I sat the computer down and proceeded to click on the album in my Spotify account. Open up the front window, crank the volume, and relax into the desk chair.

Suddenly, I started to have innumerable vivid flashbacks from my teenage years. It was exactly 25 years ago (July 30, 1996) that one of the most important rock albums (at least in my opinion) was released — Sublime’s seminal selftitled third record.

As a teenager growing up in the late 1990s, there was no record as more impactful on my young music freak life than that album. Just on the surface, the songs and melodic tone was groundbreaking, this combination of rock, punk, reggae and hiphop — a culmination of the musical influences on lead singer/guitarist Bradley Nowell.

Nowell was an iconic songwriter, a shining light of truth and a secretly troubled soul, who poured his heart straight onto the blank page. Sadly, he passed away from a heroin overdose in the weeks leading up to the self-titled album being released.

The record sold millions of copies amid several radio hits (“What I Got,” “Santeria,” “Wrong Way,” “Doin’ Time”) and fervent international fandom that permeates mainstream music and culture even to this day.

His words and melodies remain a snapshot of California and the greater United States at that time. It was the mid-to-late 1990s. Our country and the outside world were changing at a rapid pace due to the advent of the internet, the vastly changing political winds (at home and abroad), and how we ultimately interacted with each other heading towards the impending mil-

lennium, whether personally or professionally. And each song of Nowell’s still resonates as genuinely as ever.

He wrote deep, sincere lyrics about the Los Angeles Riots (“April 29, 1992”), about

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

drug abuse (and abuse in general), and dealing with the daily trials and tribulations of simply being a human being in the vast, unknown universe. Topics ranging from marijuana regulation to broken hearts, chasing your dreams in real time, to the sacred natural beauty of the West Coast.

As a young kid back then, this album changed my entire existence, whether I realized it or not at the time. Even though I was (and remain) a sponge for any and all music, Sublime was one of the first bands that I could call my own. It wasn’t something my parents or relatives introduced me to.

I found it by listening to the local radio station (99.9 The Buzz) and going down to the now-defunct Peacock Records and buying the album for myself.

Flip through the record bins under the “S” section in search of Sublime.

Grab the highly-coveted CD, wander down the aisle and plunk $20 on the counter.

My childhood friends and I in our native Upstate New York were enormous Sublime freaks.

In middle school, we’d hop onto our bicycles and head over to our buddy Pete or Sean’s house, blasting the tunes from Pete’s badass bedroom stereo or in Sean’s basement (where we could sneak cheap cigarettes and even cheaper beer).

In high school, the album blasted from our shitty first cars (Toyota Camry, Chevy Lumina, Pontiac Grand Prix) leaving class and heading into another unknown late afternoon. Take a left out of the parking lot of Northeastern Clinton Central Scool and meander towards the nearby Golf Course Road — always a joint being smoked with the windows rolled down, blasting along some back road in the North Country within sight of the Canadian Border.

The music of Sublime was (and will always provoke) a sense of escapism. It was this portal to the fun and sun of Cali, a place our young small-town souls yearned to disappear to and visit, to “leave this cow town” and find our true selves “out there.” The car would drift along the road, hands held out the window and flowing along with the fast-paced breeze swirling into the vehicle.

“Load up the bong and crank the song” (from the song “Get Ready”) was the ethos in those days. Probably still is, truth be told. Even though I’m 36 now, with grey hairs atop of my head and in my beard, the youthful nature of the album, of Nowell’s lyrics and tunes, still flows through my veins. A quarter-century, this album remains, as all timeless music does. And we remain, too.

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

Asheville 828-274-8822 Waynesville 828-407-4034 Sylva 828-586-9333 Reynolds Mountain 828-785-5825

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arts & entertainment

On the beat

Shane Meade & The Sound.

August 4-10, 2021

Concerts on the Creek The 11th annual season of Concerts on the Creek continues with Shane Meade & The Sound (rock/soul) from 7 to 9 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 6, at Bridge Park in Sylva.

Held most Fridays from through Labor Day at the Bridge Park, these free, familyfriendly events are organized by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Sylva, and the Jackson County Parks & Recreation Department.

Bring a chair or blanket. Donations are greatly appreciated. No coolers. No smoking. No alcohol. Well-behaved dogs only. All dogs must be on a leash.

Please observe Covid safe protocols in place by the State of North Carolina and Jackson County.

For more information, visit www.mountainlovers.com, the Concerts on the Creek Facebook page or call 828.586.2155.

Love Joys, where she recorded two albums under the legendary Wackies label run by Lloyd Barnes (Bullwackie).

The show is free and open to the public. www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

Smoky Mountain News

Nicholson to play Waynesville

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Natti Love Joys.

Reggae, soul at Lazy Hiker The Natti Love Joys will perform at 8 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 6, at Lazy Hiker Brewing in Sylva.

A roots-rock-reggae band that has been playing live since 2003, the group consists of husband and wife duo Anthony “Jatti” Allen and Sonia “Marla” Allen (formerly Sonia Abel).

Jatti was previously the bassist for the reggae group The Congos, while Marla originates from the cult all female reggae group

The Darren Nicholson Band (Americana/bluegrass) will perform at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 6, in front of the Historic Haywood County Courthouse on Main Street in Waynesville.

Nicholson is a bluegrass legend, a Grammy-nominated musician and winner of numerous International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards alongside his group, Haywood County’s Balsam Range.

The concert was scheduled to replace what would have been the final summer street dance, which was cancelled in the late spring by the event co-sponsor, Joe Sam Queen, due to Covid-19 concerns.

This will be an evening of live music and “socially distanced” dancing in the street, but there will not be the typical clogging teams and square dancing.

Free and open to the public.

On the beat

• Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host karaoke at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, trivia at 7 p.m. on Thursdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.0350 or www.boojumbrewing.com.

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host The Russ Wilson Duo (jazz/swing) Aug. 7 and Nathan Hefner (piano/vocals) Aug. 13.

All shows begin at 7 p.m. Limited seating.

Reservations required.

Ticket price and dinner menu to be announced. 828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

ALSO:

• Concerts on the Creek (Sylva) at Bridge Park will host Shane Meade & The Sound Aug. 6 and The Get Right Band (rock/soul) Aug. 13. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

Sponsored by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. www.mountainlovers.com.

• Friday Night Live (Highlands) will be held at the Town Square from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Foxfire Boys Aug. 6 and Chatham Rabbits Aug. 13.

Free and open to the public. www.highlandschamber.org.

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Trouvere Aug. 6, Syrup Aug. 7, Mary Kenyon 3 p.m. Aug. 8, Mike Oregeno 4:30 p.m. Aug. 10, Never B’s Aug. 13, Western Carolina Writers Aug. 14 and Zip Zarring 3 p.m. Aug. 15. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.454.5664 or www.froglevelbrewing.com.

• Innovation Station (Dillsboro) will host Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) Aug. 15. All events are free and begin at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.innovation-brewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host karaoke at 7 p.m. Aug. 13 and The Pony Express Band Aug. 14. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host Natti Love Joys (reggae/soul) Aug. 6. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Nantahala Brewing (Sylva) will host Grammy-winner Graham Sharp (of Steep Canyon Rangers), Pink Beds (indie/rock), cloud_circuit (lounge/soul) and Shane

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Meade & The Sound from 2:30 to 11 p.m.

Aug. 7. Admission is $20 per person (cash/card accepted at the door).

828.641.9797 or www.nantahalabrewing.com.

• “Pickin’ on the Square” (Franklin) will host Frogtown (bluegrass) Aug. 7 and New Train (rock/funk) Aug. 14. All shows start at 7 p.m.

Free and open to the public. Located on Main Street. www.franklin-chamber.com.

• Saturdays On Pine (Highlands) will be held at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Park from 6 to 8:30 p.m. with High Five Aug. 7 and Twilight 5K Concert Aug. 14. Free and open to the public. www.highlandschamber.org.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host Travis LeDoyt (Elvis tribute) Aug. 6 and Departure (Journey tribute) Aug. 13. Both shows begin at 7:30 p.m. www.smokymountainarts.com.

• Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host Ricky Gunter 6 p.m. Aug. 21. 828.926.7440 or www.valley-tavern.com.

• Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host karaoke on Thursday nights and semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 3 p.m. 828.456.4750 or www.facebook.com/waternhole.bar.

Smoky Mountain News

See the pharmacist for more information

Popular Allman Brothers tribute act Eat a Peach will perform at 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 6, at The Village Green in Cashiers.

Eat A Peach is a group of musicians from Birmingham, Alabama, that turned an idea from high school into one of the most rocking tribute bands in the Southeast. The collection draws from classic discography of The Allman Brothers Band that featured the rock ensemble’s original lineup.

Tickets are on sale for reserved and general admission seating on the Commons lawn. To purchase tickets, click on www.villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts.

Picnics and coolers are welcome.

Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and under the control of their owner at all times.

August 4-10, 2021

The Healthy Kids & Adults Free Vitamin Program

Allman Brothers tribute in Cashiers

• Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala Gorge) will host “Bluegrass with Blue” Aug. 6 and 13, Somebody’s Child (Americana) Aug. 7 and The Log Noggins Aug. 14. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 888.905.7238 or www.noc.com.

arts & entertainment

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

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

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arts & entertainment

On the wall HCAC ‘Artist Member Exhibit’ The “Artist Member Exhibit” will be held Aug. 6-28 at the Haywood County Arts Council on Main Street in Waynesville.

Featuring works from 38 HCAC artists, working in a range of mediums from fiber to photorealism paintings.

There will also be an artist demonstration Nancy Blevins from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 21. The demonstration will be silk dye painting in the serti technique with water-based gutta resist.

For more information, click on www.haywoodarts.org.

• A showcase of art by Gosia Babcock will be on display in the Meeting Room through the end of August at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Visit to take a closer look, but call ahead to make sure the Meeting Room is open to the public when you plan to visit. 828.524.3600.

August 4-10, 2021

• Art by Jackson County author/storyteller Gary Carden will be on display through the end of August at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. 828.524.3600.

• “A Living Language: Cherokee Syllabary and Contemporary Art,” an exhibit at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian (located in Cherokee), features over 50 works of art in a variety of media by over 30 Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and Cherokee Nation artists. The exhibition highlights the use of the written Cherokee language, a syllabary developed by Cherokee innovator Sequoyah (circa 1776–1843). Cherokee syllabary is frequently found in the work of Cherokee artists as a compositional element or the subject matter of the work itself. The exhibition will be on view at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian in Cherokee through Oct. 31. Learn more by visiting www.mci.org.

Smoky Mountain News

• The Folk Art Center in Asheville has opened its Main Gallery exhibition show-

casing the Graduating Class of 2021 of Haywood Community College’s Professional Crafts Program. The showcase will run through Aug. 22. It is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.craftguild.org or call 828.298.7928.

For more information about the Professional Crafts Program, call 828.627.4674 or visit creativearts.haywood.edu.

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

• The Haywood County Arts Council’s “Art Works @ The Library,” a collaborative program between the Haywood County Public Library system and the HCAC, is currently showcasing works by artist Cayce Moyer at the Canton Library. Working in traditional and mixed media, Moyer blends the worlds of high-brow and low-brow work. Classically trained at Savannah College of Art and Design, her portfolio includes drawing, painting, sculpture, illustration, graphic design, murals, and set prop painting for theatre and TV.

ALSO:

• Farmer’s Market (with artisans) will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through October at 117 Island Street in Bryson City. Stop by the old barn by the river for local, homegrown produce, as well as baked goods, jellies and preserves, authentic crafts, and more. Food truck, picnic tables and a strolling musician. Leashed pets are welcome. Outdoor event. Current Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed and enforced.

828.488.7857.

Fine Art Museum receives national honor The Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at Bardo Arts Center in Cullowhee has achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded the nation’s museums.

American Alliance of Museum Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, to governments, funders, outside agencies, and to the museum-going public.

Alliance Accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards and continued institutional improvement.

Developed and sustained by museum professionals for 50 years, the Alliance’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation and public accountability.

It strengthens the museum profession by promoting practices that enable leaders to make informed decisions, allocate resources wisely, and remain financially and ethically accountable in order to provide the best possible service to the public.

WCU Chancellor, Dr. Kelli R. Brown is honored the university has received this accreditation.

“The hallmark of any great university is great cultural programs. We celebrate the

WCU Fine Art Museum’s accreditation as a testament to WCU’s commitment to excellence in the arts,” she said.

Of the nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, only just over 1,080 of those museums are currently accredited, and out of that, only 16 percent are university museums. In addition, the WCU Fine Art Museum is one of only 28 museums accredited in North Carolina, and one of three accredited museums in the UNC System.

Accreditation is a very rigorous but highly rewarding process that examines all aspects of a museum’s operations. To earn accreditation a museum first must conduct a year of self-study, and then undergo a site visit by a team of peer reviewers.

The Alliance’s Accreditation Commission, an independent and autonomous body of museum professionals, considers the selfstudy and visiting committee report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation.

The museum will reopen to the public on Tuesday, Aug. 17. General hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and until 7 p.m. on Thursday.

Learn more about upcoming exhibitions and museum events at arts.wcu.edu/museum or by calling 828.227.ARTS.

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On the street arts & entertainment

Sarge’s Dog Walk returns Featured Product

WHO WE ARE

We are a family owned business, cultivated in

Photo credit: Carol Viau.

returns to emcee the event. There will be petrelated vendor tables at the courthouse lawn.

Non-walkers may purchase the 2021 Downtown Dog Walk T-shirt for $30. Shirts will be on sale at pre-registration and at the dog walk.

“If you can’t join us that day, or don’t have a dog to walk, you can still help by becoming a virtual walker,” said Fred Strohm, Sarge’s administrator. “Your virtual walker ticket allows one of Sarge’s dogs to join in the fun at the Dog Walk — and a Sarge’s volunteer will walk that dog on your behalf.”

Those who have pre-registered may pick up their shirts and bandanas from noon to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 5, at Sarge’s Adoption Center. People may also pre-register Aug. 5 to have the shirt before the dog walk.

Proceeds from the 2021 dog walk will go to Sarge’s medical funds.

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Sarge’s 16th annual “Downtown Dog Walk” will be held at 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, on Main Street in Waynesville.

Participants may register at www.sarges.org or at Sarge’s Adoption Center in Waynesville. Day-of-event registration starts at 8 a.m. on the courthouse lawn.

There is a $30 fee per entry, which includes the 2021 Dog Walk T-shirt and option to purchase additional shirts at $15 each, a dog bandana, and a ticket for a drawing of three gift baskets after the walk.

Children’s shirts are $10 each.

The walk is at the Historic Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville. KISS Country morning personality Eddie Foxx will lead the walk as grand marshal. After the walk, Foxx will do a drawing for three gift baskets, and help judge contests for dogs in best trick and best costume.

Jeanne Naber, of Songbug DJ Services,

On the table

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

• “Dillsboro After Five” will take place from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays in down-

town Dillsboro. Start with a visit to the Jackson County Farmers Market located in the Innovation Station parking lot. Stay for dinner and take advantage of latehour shopping. www.mountainlovers.com.

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Smoky Mountain News

• The Fines Creek Fish Fry will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, at the Fines Creek Community Center in Clyde.

Live music from Hill Country and River Town. Plates are $10 for adults, free for kids under age 6 (with a paying adult). All proceeds and donations go to Fines Creek Community Association to support community needs.

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

• The “Uncorked: Wine & Rail Pairing Experience” will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on select dates at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City.

Full service all-adult first class car. Wine pairings with a meal, and more.

800.872.4681 or www.gsmr.com.

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Mortgage Mommy

arts & entertainment

The

On the stage

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‘Unto These Hills’ outdoor drama Amber Patterson BRANCH MANAGER NMLS#113578 828.476.9218 Robin A. Smathers LOAN COORDINATOR 828.400.9560 Amber-Patterson.com | 367 Dellwood Rd | Suite A-1 | WAYNESVILLE Allied Mortgage Group Inc. (NMLS #1067) corporate office is located at 225 E. City Avenue, Suite 102, Bala Cynwyd, Pa 19004 (610) 668­2745.

The content in this adver sement is for informa onal purposes only. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to underwri ng guidelines and are subject to change without no ce. Allied Mortgage Group is not affiliated with any government agency. Loan programs may not be available in all states. Total finance charges may be higher over the life of the loan as a result of refinancing.

Licensing: Georgia Residen al Mortgage Licensee # 21510, Illinois Residen al Mortgage Licensee # MB.6760705, Kansas Licensed Mortgage Company License # MC.0025018, Massachuse s Mortgage Lender License #ML1067, Licensed Mortgage Banker by the New Hampshire Banking Department, Licensed by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance License #9501070, Licensed Mortgage Banker ­ NYS Department of Financial Services, Licensed Mortgage Lender ­ Rhode Island Licensed Lender # 20112755LL, California Finance Lenders Law License #6038575. Full licensing is found at www.nmlsconsumer.org. Photo credit: Darrell Moore

The “Unto These Hills” stage production will be held at 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday through Aug. 14 at the Mountainside Theater in Cherokee.

This decades-old acclaimed outdoor drama traces the Cherokee people through the eons, through the zenith of their power, through the heartbreak of the Trail of Tears,

finally ending, appropriately, in the present day, where the Cherokee people, much like their newly re-scripted drama, continue to rewrite their place in the world — a place based on traditional Cherokee values and modern sensibilities.

For more information and to purchase tickets, click on www.cherokeehistorical.org.

Smoky Mountain News

August 4-10, 2021

‘Calliope Shorts: Firsts!’

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The Calliope Stage Company will present “Calliope Shorts: Firsts!” at 8 p.m. Aug. 5, 7, 12, 14, and at 9 p.m. Aug. 6 and 13 at the Loading Dock Stage at 73 Landis Street in Sylva.

“Calliope Shorts: Firsts!” is the first new works development project commissioned

by Calliope Stage, it focuses on the stories of Western North Carolina and the artists who hold these mountains dear.

Calliope matched 23 artists of a variety of mediums and ages into 10 creative teams.

Using their unique artistic sensibilities, each team spent three months developing a new short piece of theater that’s inspired by a story rooted in the WNC region.

All 10 shorts (short plays) written by these teams will premiere in downtown Sylva at Calliope Stage’s very first live outdoor production. Five directors (along with a production team of professional and pre-professional artists) will bring each Calliope Short to life for the first time.

Live local pre-show entertainment and treats from local food and beverage vendors will complete the celebration of the theatrical magic within our beloved mountains.

The show is recommended for all ages, but there is some strong language in a couple of the pieces. To purchase tickets, click on www.calliopestage.com.

HART’s ‘The Last Romance’ A sweet, romantic comedy to warm your heart, a production of “The Last Romance” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6-7, 12-14, 19-21, and at 2 p.m. Aug. 8, 15 and 22 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

Written by the same author of HART’s hit “Over the River and Through the Woods,” “The Last Romance” will feature three of HART’s most popular actors, Lyn Donley, Stephen Gonya, and making her sensational return to the HART stage, Suzanne Tinsley.

Tinsley has the distinction of having the longest association with HART as a per-

former. She appeared as Ms. Anna in HART’s first production of “The King and I” in 1984.

She last appeared opposite HART Executive Director Steve Lloyd in “All My Sons” in 2016.

The cast is rounded out by Dakota Benfield who previously appeared in “S’Wonderful” with cast mates Donley and Gonya. “The Last Romance” is by three time Tony Award winner Joe Dipietro.

In the current play, a widower named Ralph decides to take a different path on his daily walk — one that leads him to an unexpected second chance at love. This feel good comedy is just what audiences need as they see Ralph regain a happiness that seemed all but lost.

Reservations may be made by calling the HART Box Office at 828.456.6322 or by going online to www.harttheatre.org.

On the shelf

Voted #1 in Haywood County

Thomas Crowe

A

— a walking contradiction. “My songs are about the discrepancies, what tilts one way but says it’s the opposite. Being an artist had to have something to do with letting your imagination do the talking.” But this and any other quotes offered in this short review can’t begin to give one the full breadth and depth of Wormser’s psychological, philosophical and artistic insights.

In the end it’s all about the songs —

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Storytime & Book Signing Saturday, August 7th at 1 Author CARMELLO BAKER will be reading from her children's book, Please Don't Treat Me Differently, during a storytime for all ages.

Carmello's beautiful book deals with a big brother that wants to include his little sister, who has special needs, in his day-to-day life so she will never feel excluded nor isolated. your Hometown Bookstore since2007

Smoky Mountain News

more important in Abe’s life than the relationships or any social institutions. In the early years it was mentors like Little Richard, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry and William Blake that spurred him on to begin to write songs and to play the guitar. Later, it would be the black blues artists like Son House and Muddy Waters that spoke to him under the covers of his bed at night listening to a transistor radio to stations in Chicago and New York City.

As Abe puts it: “My first tool of liberation was a beige transistor radio. I lay in bed at night and listened to the world beyond my town. That little plastic electronic box

opened up my head.” From these roots we venture with Abe/Bob out into the world. “I was where I wanted to be: elsewhere,” he says as his mind and body venture to the east and eventually New York City. Here, he finally finds his creative community and artistic family, his “university of the streets” as it were. “I could never have believed in myself if there hadn’t been those people around me who liked to play the songs and listen to the songs and talk about the songs. For a time there was a community there among the folksingers — or at least a tribe,” Abe says in describing his years and life in NYC’s Greenwich Village.

Anyone 65 years or older and living today is of the same generation as Baron Wormser and grew up with folk music, rock ‘n roll and the blues, which meant that we also grew up listening to the songs of Bob Dylan.

Reading Songs From a Voice is like listening to a songstory, a backstory that is the foundation for the hundreds of songs Dylan wrote and that led to his receiving the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016. As a novel, Songs For a Voice is an homage, investigation, nod and affirmation of the strength of imagination — both Wormser’s and Dylan’s. A must-read for aspiring young musicians, poets and all Bob Dylan fans.

Thomas Crowe is a regular contributer to The Smoky Mountain News and author of Rare Birds: Conversations with Music Legends (Univ.

Press of Mississippi, 2008) and the album “The Thief of Words: Thomas Rain Crowe & The Boatrockers,” (Fern Hill Records, 2011).

August 4-10, 2021

s a reader, I tend to get on jags with authors whom I admire. Recently, I’ve discovered the work of Baron Wormser and have reviewed his nonfiction memoir of living off the grid in New England for 25 years in these pages. An amazing story, an amazing writer. I wanted to read more of his work.

So I’ve been reading his novel this time, Songs From a Voice, that is the story of the imagined life of a young Bob Dylan as told by the main character, Abe Runyan. And what a tale it is; “partly truth and partly fiction” as Dylan himself asserted in one of his classic songs.

So well imagined and written is this book that not even halfway through I thought that I was reading a Dylan autobiography — a Writer book that reads like a personal diary revealing sides of someone you’ve always wondered about and wanted to know.

Wormser writes like he is channeling Bob Dylan, who finally reveals to us who he really is. “There’s part of me that never has been close to anyone, including the women I’ve loved. There’s part of me, first and last, that lives in my imagination. You can touch me, but I’m not there. Access isn’t something I can pass out like tickets. There’s something in me that’s beyond me, something that seals me off but replenishes me.

Call it the artist, call it the song-maker, call it haunted. The names can only mean so much,” as Abe proclaims.

Songs From a Voice begins with Abe describing the life and landscape of growing up as a Jewish boy in the upper Midwest in Minnesota and lingers there for quite a while to give us a plausible background for what may have formed Dylan as a youth and his love of songs. “There were five of us in the house in which I grew up. No one song could tell you every aspect and angle of what each of us felt day by day and how we acted when we were together.” And then later on he adds this statement: “Poems they had us read in school didn’t feel like part of life.

Critics write about influences and what I’ve taken from this song or that song. I’ve taken penty. Loss may be the deepest feeling, and Robert Johnson knew that. In America, losing track of your feelings came easy. Every folk song that had lasted showed a map of true feeling.”

Reminiscent of James Joyce’s Portrait of the Artist As a Young Man, Abe/Dylan emerges and gives us a glimpse of who he is

arts & entertainment

Imagining Bob Dylan’s fictional youth

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• The Friends of Haywood County Public Library will hold its annual book sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 25 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 26-28 at the library in Waynesville. A large sale of hardback and paperback books, DVDs, CDs, puzzles, and more.

Free to attend.

428 HAZELWOOD Ave.

Waynesville • 456-6000 MON-FRI 9-5:30 | SAT 9-3

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

The mountains of Western North Carolina contain some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.

Bill Lea photo

from a longtime career coaching basketball and baseball, first at the high school and then at the college level. His last job was at Anderson University, located in South Carolina about 90 minutes from Cashiers.

Edwards was a town kid during his growing-

Get involved To help Mountain Wildlife Days live on into 2022, contact John Edwards for more information at blackbears66@gmail or 828.743.9648.

A black bear cub climbs a tree.

Bill Lea photo

‘LET’S PROTECT IT’ For retiring Mountain Wildlife Days director, wildlife outreach is a calling

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ith his 90th birthday now approaching, John Edwards is retiring from his two-decade-long role organizing one of the region’s largest annual celebrations of mountain wildlife — but he hopes a successor will pick up the mantle.

“I always loved the mountains, and I always loved the wildlife,” said the 89-year-old Sapphire Valley resident. “That’s just part of my likes in life. When you’ve got a bear and its cubs walk through your yard, it’s a little special, and that frequently happens where we live. I just said, ‘Well, how do we help protect these wild lives and wild places?’”

It was a question he began asking in earnest 21 years ago, and Mountain Wildlife

W

Days turned out to be the answer. The annual two-day event in Sapphire wrapped up its 17th annual event July 17, drawing more than 450 people to experience live animal presentations, guided hikes and birding experiences, a creation-inspired musical program, a silent auction and more. Funds raised from the event pay for educational wildlife presentations throughout the year. In 2019, those presentations reached 1,400 people.

“Without John, it just wouldn’t have happened,” said Jeff Alt, a volunteer with Mountain Wildlife Days since 2012.

But 21 years ago, when Edwards first felt the call to do something in support of mountain wildlife, what is now Mountain Wildlife Days began as something much smaller.

Edwards, an Alabama native, had retired

up years in Alabama, but after moving to Anderson, he found himself close to — and entranced by — the wildlife of Western North Carolina.

“When I was coaching at Anderson University, we came to the mountains frequently as a getaway,” he said, “and that kind of got me started into the appreciation of not only the beauty of the mountains but the wildlife too.”

Eventually, he and his wife Phyllis moved to Sapphire, and they discovered Pigeon Forge’s annual Wilderness Wildlife Week — an entire seven days highlighting wildlife and wild places. They made the trek to Tennessee for several years and loved it. Edwards was inspired to bring something similar to the plateau.

“I started with just an event here, one there,” he said, but over time the effort grew into the annual two-day celebration known as Mountain Wildlife Days.

“We are big believers in creation, and we feel like a higher power gave us this gift for us to enjoy, and let’s protect it,” said Edwards.

Over the course of 17 Mountain Wildlife Days events, he’s worked to instill that passion for protection in others, and it all begins with making people aware and appreciative of the wildlife around them.

“The interest that he imparts to children through these programs is remarkable,” Alt said. “You see kids come in that are more interested in their smartphones, and all of a sudden their attention is turned to some wild

animals that are right there in front of them.

They’ve seen photos and videos, but they’ve never seen them in person. Suddenly it becomes important.”

In 2013, Edwards launched an initiative aimed at planting those seeds year-round — not just over the course of a two-day event in July. Now known as the Wildlife Days Western North Carolina Wildlife Outreach Program, since its launch it has brought wildlife education to thousands of people, mostly children.

Funds raised during the main Mountain Wildlife Days event and silent auction pay presenters to bring their animals to schools and other venues around the region.

“That’s been the thing that’s developed that’s pleased me more than anything,” said Edwards. “Because not only do we have this event, but there’s an opportunity to take this to the schools, and we have. In the past few years we’ve had thousands of children that’s been affected each year as a result of the funding that we can provide to the presenters.”

In the beginning, the event didn’t generate enough money for that kind of thing. In fact, early on, Edwards had to “take chances financially” to get things off the ground.

“Now this is a paying event, and it provides enough funds to continue it down the road,” he said.

To be clear, said Edwards, it doesn’t pay him. All his efforts are on a volunteer basis.

But he does pay the presenters.

“Most of them, they’re financially dependent on some kind of funds to present a program,” he said. “It costs to have five wolves and feed them every day.”

While Edwards doesn’t plan to organize another Mountain Wildlife Days event, there is money in the bank to keep funding outreach presentations over the coming year.

And if someone steps up to take things over, Edwards said he’s ready and willing to help where he can.

“It has been exciting for me and for the people who have been involved with it,” he said. “We have a lot of enthusiasm for the event. And I’m hopeful somebody will continue it.”

Crashes cause deaths in the Smokies, Parkway was transported by ambulance to Haywood Regional Medical Center, the 18-year-old passenger, Alexis Bolduc of Mocksville, died as a result.

On Saturday, July 31, Weaverville resident Shawn Emory, 38, was riding his motorcycle near Milepost 398 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, about 9 miles north of Mount Pisgah, when he lost control and overcorrected while traveling southbound in an uphill curve. The motorcycle left the road and struck the guardrail, ejecting Emory. Parkway dispatchers received a report of the crash at 9:30 a.m., and found Emory in serious condition. He was transported to a local hospital and later succumbed to his injuries.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in both the Smokies and on the Parkway. For safe driving tips, visit www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/drivingsafety.htm.

Clay couple donates land for conservation

Closure planned for Bradley Fork Trail section

as federal holidays. Equestrians will not be able to use the trail at all from Aug. 16 through March 1, 2022, however, in order to allow soil disturbed during the project to harden sufficiently. The remainder of the Bradley Fork Trail and all nearby trails and campsites will remain open for the duration of the project and can be accessed from routes that do not include

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A trail rehabilitation project on the Bradley Fork Trail will keep a 3.3-mile section of it closed Monday through Thursday from Aug. 16 to Oct. 28.

Bradley Fork. Donated photo The project will take place on the section from the intersection of Cabin Flats Trail to the intersection with Hughes Ridge Trail. It will address erosion concerns, reduce trail rutting and restore the trail tread to a surface that will provide for a safer and more enjoyable experience for hikers and equestrians.

Because heavy machinery is required to complete the project, the trail closure is necessary to allow for the the closed section. safety of all users.

Get help planning backcountry excurThe trail will be open to hikers each sions at www.nps.gov/grsm or call week from Friday through Sunday, as well 865.436.1297.

Real Experience. Real Service. Real Results.

August 4-10, 2021

A Clay County couple has conserved their 50-plus-acre property and will donate it as a life estate to Mainspring Conservation Trust.

“Our children and grandchildren were not interested in inheriting the property,” said Judy Grove, who owns the land with her husband Bob. “They knew how much the property meant to us and encouraged the conservation easement and life estate. When Bob and I discussed our goals, we knew we didn’t want it being subdivided, so it was a relief to know there is a local organization like Mainspring, willing to take the responsibility of maintaining the conservation values of it forever.”

The property in Brasstown includes a small forested watershed where three springs merge to provide the majority of flow into Jenkins Branch. Over the last 15 years, the Groves have used a forest management plan that calls for selective harvest to promote the growth of healthier trees in the low mountain pine forest portion of the property, which also includes rock outcroppings and a small wetland that harbor unique plant and animal species.

outdoors

A trio of collisions in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway over the past week have resulted in a total of four fatalities.

At 7:04 p.m. Sunday, July 25, a motorcycle carrying two people lost control and collided with a roadside sign at the intersection of U.S. 321 and the Foothills Parkway at Wears Valley. Both occupants — Benjamin Braunsdorf, 50, of Seymour, Tennessee, and Wendy Fitzgibbon, 46, of Knoxville, Tennessee — were pronounced dead at the scene.

At approximately 11:07 a.m. the following morning, Blue Ridge Parkway rangers were alerted to a crash in the Balsam area of the Parkway, near milepost 441.

Preliminary investigations showed that the vehicle was traveling southbound in a downhill curve when it left the roadway and landed on a nearby guardrail. While the driver sustained only minor injuries and

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outdoors

Meet the state’s park director Comment on the Laurel Falls plan

Smoky Mountain News 32

Dwayne Patterson.

Donated photo

and Recreation Trust Fund and his vision for Gorges State Park. Patterson has served as DPR director since June 2018.

Between May 2020 and Feb. 2021, he served as deputy director and chief operating officer in the N.C. Pandemic Recovery

Office.

The event is hosted by Friends of Gorges, with refreshments from Blue Ridge Bakery. It’s free, but space is limited and registration is required at www.friendsofgorges.org/director-patterson-visit.

Explore a new Grandfather Mountain trail Construction is complete on a new trail at Grandfather Mountain State Park.

The 2.4-mile loop along the Profile Trail adds nearly half a mile to the existing trail. The Profile Trail ascends 1,175 feet over 3.6 miles to Calloway Gap. The park is known for some of the South’s most challenging terrain. www.ncparks.gov/grandfather-mountain-state-park or 828.963.9522.

August 4-10, 2021

The deadline to weigh in at the early stage of a long-range planning process for Laurel Falls Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Saturday, Aug. 7.

Two public comment portals are open through that date. n Laurel Falls Management Trail Plan.

Members of the public should share their observations, concerns and ideas for solving the issues facing Laurel Falls Trail. The park wants to achieve a number of objectives, including addressing issues associated with congestion and safety, enhancing opportunities to view and enjoy the falls and protecting park resources. Comments will be used to refine the concepts and alternatives under consideration, identify issues and ensure the park has the information it needs to move forward in the process. Comment at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/laurelfalls. n Laurel Falls Pilot Plan. The public is invited to share any feedback on the upcoming congestion management pilot plan at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/laurelfallspilot.

Hear the director of the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation speak on the current status of state parks and their impacts on the region during an event beginning at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, in the Rogow Room of the Transylvania County Library in Brevard.

The afternoon will begin with an hour of light refreshments and meet-and-greet time, followed by a presentation and Q&A opportunity 2:30 to 4 p.m.

That morning, Director Dwayne Patterson will tour Gorges State Park, located on the Transylvania/Jackson county line, together with Deputy Director of Operations Kathy Capps, Deputy Director of Planning and Natural Resources Brian Strong, Gorges Superintendent Kevin Bischof and Friends of Gorges State Park President Steve Pagano. The tour will include the new $5.8 million family campground currently under construction, slated to open by the end of the year.

During the public presentation that afternoon, Patterson will discuss the current status of state parks, the N.C. Parks

Great Smokies

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Join the oak circus

In a 1929 photo by famed Smokies photographer George Masa, Henry Wright stands beside the massive Richardson Oak. Donated photo

scape and garden during a free seminar and field trip on Wednesday, Aug. 11, at the Highlands Community Building.

The day will begin with a 1 p.m. seminar

from Paul Manos, Ph.D., of Duke University, titled “Quercus Circus.” Quercus is the botanical genus for oak species — Manos will present the basic biology of oaks and their ecologically beneficial interactions with animals and fungi, including research designed to understand the importance of oak conservation from backyard to forest.

Afterward, a 2:30 p.m. field trip to Dixon Park will offer a walk to identify trees and explain and demonstrate the importance of controlling invasive plants species on the Highlands Plateau.

Located on the corner of Bowery Road and Split Rail Road, Dixon Park is owned by the HighlandsCashiers Land Trust. A native plant meadow is being established there.

Sponsored by the Coalition for Nonnative Invasive Plant Management. Free, but registration is requested at www.highlandsbiological.org/about/upco ming-events.

The Haywood County Beekeepers will hold a demonstration showing how to manage Varroa mites in hives at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, at the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville.

Participants will learn how to do Varroa mite sampling and the sugar shake method, and see several options for treating for Varroa mites. Bring a bee suit, as the workshop will include getting into several hives.

828.456.3575.

March of the ants, explained Learn how non-native ant invaders succeed in the Southern Appalachians and the impact they have on native species during a lecture at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 12, at the Highlands Community Building.

Robert Warren, Ph.D., will present the next installment of the Zahner Conservation Lecture Series, titled “Ant Invasions in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.” While Southern fire ants are working their way into mountain valleys and upward to higher elevations, they rarely enter forests. Asian needle ants, on the other hand, are taking over the foothill and Piedmont regions, making forays into the mountain edges.

Warren is an associate professor of global change ecology at SUNY Buffalo State. His lab’s research focuses on how species interactions respond to habitat fragmentation, non-native species and climate change.

Part of a series of free lectures offered

weekly on Thursday evenings through Sept. 9. This installment is sponsored by Sarah Morgan and Walter Wingfield.

Reception to follow. www.highlandsbiological.org 828.526.2221.

After last year’s pandemic absence, the fair will return again this fall. The Haywood County Fair and the Mountain State Fair have both announced plans to resume their annual events. n The Haywood County Fair will be held Aug. 26-29 at the Smoky Mountain Event Center, with online registration open through Aug. 16. Volunteers are needed to help with take-in for the Home Economics Division III, which includes preserved foods, home furnishings, clothing and crafts, on Tuesday, Aug. 24. Call 828.456.3575 or visit www.smokymountaineventcenter.org/fair-2021 for more information and online registration. n The N.C. Mountain State Fair will return to the WNC Ag Center in Fletcher Sept. 10-19. New competitions will include a youth show for llamas and a new youth poultry egg show. Entry deadlines are coming up, beginning with the first cutoff for the clogging championship Aug. 6, with additional deadlines staggered through Sept. 14. For more information, visit www.wncagcenter.org/p/mountainstatefair or call 828.687.1414, ext. 210.

Pitcher Suri Watty (left) and catcher Carley Teesateskie show off their tournament title.

Sasha McCoy Watty photo

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Two Swain Middle School eighth graders helped their softball team win a tournament title during the Native American Youth Organization Tournament hosted by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians July 22-24.

Pitcher Suri Watty and catcher Carley Teesateskie are both members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and played on the Mississippi Sparks 12U team.

The Sparks, coached by MCBI Chief Cyrus Ben, went undefeated to take the title.

We are open to continue providing essential services to our patients in a safe environment. Our staff is following protocol recommended by the CDC and local and state health departments.

August 4-10, 2021

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Fall fairs return

Swain students win softball title

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Learn about the ecological role oaks and other native trees play in the home land-

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Welcome Arnold Silverberg, MD

Young snorkelers explore the West Fork Pigeon River during a previous Haywood Waterways event.

Orthopaedics Western Carolina Orthopaedic Specialists 581 Leroy George Dr., Suite 300 Canton, NC 28721

Specializes in:

Medical School: Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN

Residency: University of Florida Gainesville, FL

University of Florida Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Gainesville, FL

Hip replacement surgery Knee replacement surgery Robotic assisted knee replacement Revision hip and knee replacement Minimally invasive surgery Fracture surgery Orthopaedic trauma Rapid recovery protocols

Snorkel the Pigeon Discover the underwater world of the West Fork Pigeon River during a snorkeling adventure Saturday, Aug. 14, behind Jukebox Junction in Bethel.

Haywood Waterways Association will take reservations on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with 10 spots available in each time slot. Snorkel gear, underwater viewing boxes and nets will be available to help participants learn about the insects, salamanders, fish and other fascinating creatures that populate the river in one of Earth’s most biologically diverse places. The event

is part of Haywood Waterways’ “Get to Know Your Watershed” series of outdoor recreation activities.

Free for Haywood Waterways members, with a $5 donation requested from nonmembers. Memberships start at $25.

Participants must follow current CDC guidelines for COVID-19 at the time of the event. No pets. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

RSVP by 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12 to Christine O’Brien at Christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.

Join the Bucket Brigade August 4-10, 2021

Welcoming new patients Appointments may be made by calling

828.452.4131

Get in the water with Pisgah Center programs

Smoky Mountain News

MyHaywoodRegional.com

34

The Bucket Brigade is looking for people who are tired of passing by the same trash each day and want to get outside to make a difference in the community.

Organized by Haywood Waterways Association, this stream cleanup movement is an army of small groups, families and individuals working to pick up trash and protect local waterways.

Haywood Waterways provides kits in a bucket containing trash bags, grabbers, gloves and safety vests for groups to borrow for up to a week at a time.

To schedule a pickup time or learn more about the program, contact Christine O’Brien at 828.476.4667, ext. 11, or christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com.

Puzzles can be found on page 38 These are only the answers.

The Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in Brevard is offering a full slate of classes this month, ranging from on-thewater fly fishing tutorials to stream snorkeling.

On the schedule are: n Kid’s Snorkeling in the Stream, 9:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Aug. 10, for ages 8-16. n Introduction to Fly Fishing, 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Aug. 11, for ages 12 and up. n Nature Nuts: Salamanders, 9-11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 13, for ages 5-11. n Raising Hatchery Trout, 2-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, for all ages. n Nature Nuts: Stream Investigation, 9-11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 16, for ages 5-11. n Introduction to Fly Fishing, 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Aug. 18, for ages 12 and up. n Adult Snorkeling in the Stream, 9:30 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 20, for ages 16 and up. n Casting for Beginners, 9 a.m. to noon

Tuesday, Aug. 24, for ages 12 and up. n Fly Fishing Expo, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 25, for all ages. n Tackle Rigging for Fly Fishing, 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Aug. 26, for ages 12 and up. n Nature Nuts: Life Cycle, 9-11 a.m. Friday,

Aug. 27, for ages 5-11. n Fly Tying for the Beginner, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 28, for ages 12 and up.

Events are free, with registration required. Sign up at www.ncwildlife.org/learning/educationcenters/pisgah/eventregistration/pageid/calendar.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • Live Forgiven Church food ministry will host a curbside grocery giveaway on from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 8. Everyone is welcome and groceries will be safely handled and distributed. The building is located at 45 Crown Ridge Road in Sylva, NC. Email Chris or Crystal at FoodMinistry@LiveForgiven.Life for more information.

• Haywood County NAACP will hold a meeting at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 14, at the Gladys Knight Recreation Park in Canton. Following current CDC mask recommendations, if you are not vaccinated, please wear a mask and keep socially distanced.

Smoky Mountain News

n All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. n To have your item listed email to calendar@smokymountainnews.com

AUTHORS AND BOOKS • Blue Ride Books and News will host Carmello Baker for Story Time, followed by the signing of her children’s book, “Please Don’t Treat Me Differently,” at 1 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 7, at Blue Ridge Books and News. www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS • Saturday, Aug. 7 there will be fundraising events for SEASCAT.org at Lifeway Church on Allen Street in Sylva.

SEASCAT.org is a local organization dedicated to helping survivors of child abuse. Connie Jean Conklin, MEd founder seascat@gmail.com or 828.506.6141.

• Sarge’s 16th annual Downtown Dog Walk will take place at 9 a.m. Aug. 7 at the Waynesville Courthouse Lawn. The $30 registration fee includes a t-shirt and dog bandana. www.sarges.org.

• Fines Creek Fish Fry will be held from 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 14, at the Fines Creek Community Center. There will be live music by Hill County and River Town. Food will be $10 per plate, kids under 6 eat free.

All proceeds go to FCCA to support community needs.

GROUPS AND MEETINGS • Jim Casada, of Swain County, will be presenting his most recent book “A Smoky Mountain Boyhood: Memories, Musings & More” at the Aug. 5 meeting of our Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society.

The meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center. Open to the public.

POLITICAL CORNER

A&E

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host The Russ Wilson Duo (jazz/swing) Aug. 7 and Nathan Hefner (piano/vocals) Aug. 13. All shows begin at 7 p.m.

Limited seating. Reservations required. Ticket price and dinner menu to be announced. 828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

• Concerts on the Creek (Sylva) at Bridge Park will host Shane Meade & The Sound Aug. 6 and The Get Right Band (rock/soul) Aug. 13. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

Sponsored by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. www.mountainlovers.com.

• Friday Night Live (Highlands) will be held at the Town Square from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Foxfire Boys Aug. 6 and Chatham Rabbits Aug. 13. Free and open to the public. www.highlandschamber.org.

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Trouvere Aug. 6, Syrup Aug. 7, Mary Kenyon 3 p.m. Aug. 8, Mike Oregeno 4:30 p.m. Aug. 10, Never B’s Aug. 13, Western Carolina Writers Aug. 14 and Zip Zarring 3 p.m. Aug. 15. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 or www.froglevelbrewing.com.

• The Swain County Democratic Party will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 9, at United Community Bank, 145 Slope Street in Bryson City. All Democrats are welcome to join. Call Justin at 828.736.4693.

• Innovation Station (Dillsboro) will host Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) Aug. 15. All events are free and begin at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.innovation-brewing.com.

• The Swain County Democratic Party Whittier-Cherokee precinct will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 10, via Zoom.

Agenda items include deciding on 2022 and 2024 priorities. All are welcome to join us and share your concerns and ideas. For more info or the Zoom link, email maryherr2017@gmail.com or call 828.497.9498.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host karaoke at 7 p.m. Aug. 13 and The Pony Express Band Aug. 14. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

SUPPORT GROUPS • Al-Anon meets every Monday night from 7-8 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 77 Jackson St., Sylva.

Enter at front of church through the door to the left of the sanctuary; meeting is first door on the right. The Church requests that you wear a mask if you are not vaccinated.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host Natti Love Joys (reggae/soul) Aug. 6. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public.

828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 or www.mtnlayersbeer.com.

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

• Nantahala Brewing (Sylva) will host Grammy-winner Graham Sharp (of Steep Canyon Rangers), Pink Beds (indie/rock), cloud_circuit (lounge/soul) and Shane Meade & The Sound from 2:30 to 11 p.m. Aug. 7.

Admission is $20 per person (cash/card accepted at the door). 828.641.9797 or www.nantahalabrewing.com.

Also Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Cullowhee Methodist Church and Saturdays 6 p.m. at Cullowhee Methodist Church. Meetings in Haywood County, Macon County and Swain County have re-opened as well. For more details visit ncmountainna.org.

• Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala Gorge) will host “Bluegrass with Blue” Aug. 6 and 13, Somebody’s Child (Americana) Aug. 7 and The Log Noggins Aug. 14.

All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 888.905.7238 or www.noc.com.

• “Pickin’ on the Square” (Franklin) will host Frogtown (bluegrass) Aug. 7 and New Train (rock/funk) Aug. 14.

All shows start at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public.

Located on Main Street. www.franklin-chamber.com.

• Saturdays On Pine (Highlands) will be held at the Kelsey-Hutchinson Park from 6 to 8:30 p.m. with High Five Aug. 7 and Twilight 5K Concert Aug. 14. Free and open to the public. www.highlandschamber.org.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host Travis LeDoyt (Elvis tribute) Aug. 6 and Departure (Journey tribute) Aug. 13. Both shows begin at 7:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, click on www.smokymountainarts.com.

• Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host Ricky Gunter 6 p.m. Aug. 21. 828.926.7440 or www.valley-tavern.com.

• The Village Green (Cashiers) will host Eat A Peach (Allman Brothers tribute) at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 6. For tickets, click on www.villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts.

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

• Bryson City Wine Market will host weekly wine flight tasting events from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The market will also serve wine by the glass from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

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

Outdoors

• Former Highlands Biological Foundation Director Sonya Carpenter will speak on simple changes people can make to nurture life in their gardens and communities during the next installment of the Zahner Conservation Lecture Series at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 5, at the Highlands Community Building. Zahner lectures are held Thursdays through Sept. 9. www.highlandsbiological.org or 828.526.2221.

• Help clean up Allens Creek 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, in Waynesville. RSVP by July 29 to Christine O’Brien at Christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.

• Smokey Bear turns 77 this year, and a celebration 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, at the Cradle of Forestry in America will mark the event with party stations, storybook reading, silly songs and an appearance

by Smokey himself. Free with regular admission of $3 for youth 5-12 and $6 for adults. Children 4 and under are free. The Cradle of Forestry is located along U.S. 276 in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard.

• The Haywood County Beekeepers will hold a demonstration showing how to manage Varroa mites in hives at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, at the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville. 828.456.3575.

• A free seminar for agritourism providers and partners will come to Waynesville on Monday, Aug. 9. Free, with events from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Haywood County Extension Office on Raccoon Road. Register at www.bit.ly/3wS87Cg. • Hear the director of the N.C. Division of Parks and

35

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

Complete listings of local music scene Regional festivals Art gallery events and openings Complete listings of recreational offerings at health and fitness centers n Civic and social club gatherings Recreation speak on the current status of state parks and their impacts on the region during an event beginning at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, in the Rogow Room of the Transylvania County Library in Brevard. It’s free, but space is limited and registration is required at www.friendsofgorges.org/director-patterson-visit.

• Learn about the ecological role oaks and other native trees play in the home landscape and garden during a free seminar and field trip on Wednesday, Aug. 11, at the Highlands Community Building. Free, but registration is requested at www.highlandsbiological.org/about/upcoming-events.

• Learn how non-native ant invaders succeed in the Southern Appalachians and the impact they have on native species during a lecture at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12, at the Highlands Community Building. Part of a series of free lectures offered weekly on Thursday evenings through Sept. 9. Reception to follow. www.highlandsbiological.org 828.526.2221.

• Hike Soco Gap to Waterrock Knob at 8 a.m. Aug. 14, with Haywood County Parks and Recreation. Guided by Phyllis and Jamie Shackelford. Hikes are $10, paid at registration. ian.smith@haywoodcountync.gov.

• Discover the underwater world of the West Fork Pigeon River during a snorkeling adventure Saturday, Aug. 14, behind Jukebox Junction in Bethel. Free for Haywood Waterways members, with a $5 donation requested from nonmembers. Memberships start at $25. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. RSVP by 5 p.m.

Aug. 12 to Christine O’Brien at Christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.

• Registration is now open for Grandfather Mountain Photography Weekend, slated for the weekend of Aug. 14-15 at Grandfather Mountain in Linville. Admission costs $100 and covers three-day admission to the park, entry to all field courses, camping and optional participation in the photo contest. Register at www.grandfather.com/event/grandfather-mountain-photographyweekend. Contact frank@grandfather.com for more information.

• The Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in Brevard is offering a full slate of classes this month, ranging from on-the-water fly fishing tutorials to stream snorkeling.

Events are free, with registration required. Sign up at www.ncwildlife.org/Learning/EducationCenters/Pisgah/Event-Registration/PageId/Calendar

Market WNC PLACE

MarketPlace information:

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Visit www.wncmarketplace.com to place your ad!

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Monday for your ad to run again FREE Legal N otices — 25¢ per word $375 — Statewide classifieds run in 170 participating newspapers with 1.1+ million circulation. (Limit 25 words or less) Boost Online — Have your ad featured at top of category online $4 Boost in Print Add Photo $6 Bold ad $2 Yellow, Green, Pink or Blue Highlight $4 Border $4

Note: Highlighted ads automatically generate a border so if you’re placing an ad online and select a highlight color, the “add border” feature will not be available on the screen.

Note: Yard sale ads require an address. This location will be displayed on a map on www.wncmarketplace.com

Announcements

PLOT FOR SALE GREENHILL CEMETERY John Taylor Division Section 18 Lot 2 Space 3. $1200 OBO. Please call (828) 456-6029

Tracts, Online Only w/ Bid Center Auction, Fairmont, NC, Bid Center at Southeastern NC Agricultural Events Center, 1027 US 74 Alt. Lumberton, NC, Begins Closing 8/19 at 3pm, ironhorseauction. com, 800.997.2248,

Employment

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Old Edwards Hospitality Group Highlands NC NOW RECRUITING FOR: Graphic Design & Layout Professional, P/T Marketing Asst/Print Production, Catering Manager, Sales Manager, Assistant F&B Manager, Banquet Captain, Banquet Supervisor, Host, Server, Breakfast Server, Server Assistant, Bartender, AM Sous Chef, Breakfast Cook, Cook, Assistant Pastry Chef, Dishwasher, Reservations Specialist, Front Desk Supervisor, Front Desk Agent, Bellman, Room Attendant, Houseman, 2nd Shift Laundry, Retail Associate, Fitness Manager, Spa Concierge, Spa Attendant, Massage Therapist, Spin Instructor.

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ATTENTION ACTIVE DUTY/MILITARY Veterans Begin a new career and earn your degree at CTI. Online computer & medical training available for veterans & families! To learn more 833-970-3466

FRONT DESK AGENT PT/FT Waynesville motel looking for a front desk agent. Duties includes taking guest reservations, check-in guests, assisting with guest needs and ensuring a high quality experience. Apply in person at 79 Liner Cove Road, Waynesville, NC 28786. daysinnmanager@outlook.com WORK FROM ANYWHERE You have an internet connection? 13 positions available. Start as soon as today. As simple as checking your email.

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& Press 1. 100% online courses. Financial Aid 833-990-0354 ATTENTION ACTIVE DUTY/MILITARY Veterans Begin a new career and earn your degree at CTI. Online computer & medical training available for veterans & families! To learn more 833-970-3466 BOOTS STEAKHOUSE IN DILLSBORO Boots Steakhouse in Dillsboro is now hiring Servers, Bussers, Cooks and Dishwashers. Our employees earn top wages and we are ranked the #1 Steakhouse by Trip Advisor in the Carolina Mountains. Please apply to: bootssteakhouse@gmail.com to schedule an in person interview. You can also call 828-631-9713 and view our website: www. bootssteakhouse.com HOUSING REHABILITATION SPECIALIST Haywood County Mountain Projects Inc., is currently accepting applications for a full time Housing Rehabilitation Specialist. Experience with weatherization,

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& Press 1. 100% online courses. Financial Aid Available for those who qualify. 833-990-0354

Our employees earn top wages and we are ranked the #1 Steakhouse by Trip Advisor in the Carolina Mountains.

Apply at bootssteakhouse@gmail.com to schedule an in person interview or call 828-631-9713 www.bootssteakhouse.com August 4-10, 2021

WNC MarketPlace

rehab, general carpentry, plumbing and electrical in construction industry is needed. Please apply at MPI, 2177 Asheville Rd. Waynesville, NC 28786 or www.mountainprojects.org EOE/AA. CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE Carolina Mountain Cablevision, Inc., a locally owned and operated Cable TV/Internet/Telephone Service Provider, is seeking applications/resumes for a Customer Service Representative. The successful applicant will need the following skills: Customer Service experience with the ability to handle customers and other members of the public in a courteous and professional manner; computer experience is a must – experience with Microsoft Programs a must; good communications skills in person, on the phone, and written (by hand or computer); the ability to be self-motivated and work independently but also the ability to function as part of a team as needed; the ability to handle stressful, hectic situations in a professional manner; the ability to multitask; and the ability to work overtime as needed. Individuals with IT/Networking experience and/or knowledge of cable television products and services along with the other skills listed will be given preferential consideration. High school diploma or the equivalent required. Salary is dependent on H[SHULHQFH %HQH¿WV are available. Interested applicants should e-mail their resume to sanders@ccvn.com or fax them to 828536-4510. Resumes will be accepted until Monday, August 16th.

Equal Opportunity Employer - Veterans encouraged to apply (828) 682-4074 ext. 221 sanders@ccvn.com

FTCC - Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Data Analyst, Academic Advisor for Transfers, Senior Secretary- Bookstore. For detailed information and to apply please visit our employment portal at: faytechcc.peopleadmin. com Human Resources Ph: 910-678-7342, www. faytechcc.edu EOE

Legal Notices REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR ARCHITECTURAL PLANNING AND DESIGN SERVICES Jackson County, North Carolina is soliciting Request for 4XDOL¿FDWLRQV IURP TXDOL¿HG DUFKLWHFWXUDO ¿UPV IRU SODQQLQJ DQG design services. The County is looking to renovate its Justice/ Administration Center. The current 87,000 sq. ft. facility houses the court system, 6KHULII¶V RI¿FH MDLO functions, administrative functions and other activities related to these operations. Jackson County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, national origin or age. Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) and Minority and Women Business Enterprises (MBE or WBE) capable and RWKHUZLVH TXDOL¿HG WR perform work are encouraged to submit.

Submission of qualL¿FDWLRQV ZLOO EH DFcepted until 5:00 pm on Friday September 3, 2021. More detailed information can be requested from Kerri Tucker at 828-6312295 or kerritucker@ MDFNVRQQF RUJ

Haywood Co. Real Estate Agents Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate- Heritage • Carolyn Lauter - carolyn@bhgheritage.com

Beverly Hanks & Associates- beverly-hanks.com

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Amanda Cook Williams

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Catherine Proben Cell: 828-734-9157 Office: 828-452-5809

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Billie Green - bgreen@beverly-hanks.com Brian K. Noland - brianknoland.com Anne Page - apage@beverly-hanks.com Jerry Powell - jpowell@beverly-hanks.com Catherine Proben - cproben@beverly-hanks.com Ellen Sither - esither@beverly-hanks.com Mike Stamey - mikestamey@beverly-hanks.com Karen Hollingsed- khollingsed@beverly-hanks.com Billy Case- billycase@beverly-hanks.com Laura Thomas - lthomas@beverly-hanks.com John Keith - jkeith@beverly-hanks.com Randall Rogers - rrogers@beverly-hanks.com Susan Hooper - shooper@beverly-hanks.com Hunter Wyman - hwyman@beverly-hanks.com

• Rob Roland - robroland@beverly-hanks.com

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RE/MAX

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Ron Breese Broker/Owner 71 North Main Street Waynesville, NC 28786 Cell: 828.400.9029 ron@ronbreese.com

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

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August 4-10, 2021

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37

SUPER

CROSSWORD

I WILL GO ON ACROSS 1 Pagan belief 6 Shortly 12 Refuses to comply with 20 Bubbling over 21 Not end on schedule 22 She played Natalia Boa Vista on "CSI: Miami" 23 Warming up a 24-ounce Starbucks drink?

25 Corded phone connection 26 See 11-Down 27 Beijing-to-Taipei dir.

28 Indian-language word meaning "lower limbs?"

29 Greek dawn goddess 30 Car ad abbr.

32 Edison's middle name 34 Go quickly, old-style 35 Put clothes on a raccoon relative?

39 Margarine, old-style 41 Praise highly 45 Gossipy sort 46 Pea keeper 47 Shiny gray wrist bones?

50 Bagel option 52 Non-paper money 54 Defeated in a footrace 55 Countrified 58 "Right on!"

59 Echo 60 "That South Asian yogurt drink is my favorite!"?

64 Strip race 66 Anger 68 Defiant type 69 Scan for typos and such 71 "Me and Bobby --" (1971 hit) 73 Off-roader, in brief

74 Counterfeit 75 Spatula on a Hawaiian porch?

77 Noontime nap 80 Ring match 82 Singer Debby 83 Words after many fiction book titles 84 Legions 86 Least vicious 90 Beautiful woman in the Muslim paradise who's destitute?

92 During each 95 Actress -- Grace Moretz 96 Really tiny 97 Be worthy of 98 Chariot in which the Bible's three wise men traveled?

100 Fast escape 102 1952 Winter Olympics city 104 Egg: Prefix 105 Foldable bed 106 Pool lengths completed

by Hindu masters?

111 "... bug -- feature?"

113 Typos and such 116 Geometric plane curve 117 Fight a ruling family of old Florence?

120 Stopped sleeping 121 Tristan's lady 122 Tendencies 123 Anonymous 124 Wood finish 125 Inner tension DOWN 1 Crib outburst 2 "Except after C" lead-in 3 Roughens

4 -- Field (Mets' stadium) 5 "Put -- on it!"

6 The so-called "Godfather of Punk" 7 Fall mo.

8 Malted drinks 9 Potted dwarf 10 Spy's info 11 Start of an end-of-week cry that's followed by 26-Across 12 Wrap offerer 13 Sir Walter Scott hero 14 Christian music singer -Patty 15 Classic song 16 Umpire's call 17 Lake that abuts Ohio 18 Egg foo -19 Gets the idea 24 DEA figure 28 "Barney Miller" star 29 Ben & Jerry's rival 31 "Red Book" Chinese chairman 33 Put in words 36 Go hungry 37 Justice Alito 38 Raiders' stats 40 Lead-in to a holiday 41 Delayed 42 Call into a court of law 43 Cornered 44 Big racket 47 Between solid and liquid 48 Filmmaker Nicolas 49 Tea holder 51 Time stretch 53 Old El -- (salsa brand) 56 Top dog 57 Tomb raider Croft 59 Sirius XM medium 60 Lyric writer Gershwin

61 "We'd better skip that" 62 Apparent 63 Mexican hats 65 Broccoli --: Var. 67 Perpetually, to poets 70 Be worthy of 71 1972 Summer Olympics city 72 Christmas Nativity display 74 WWII battle site 76 Unit of bricks 78 "Climb -- Mountain" 79 Six, in Sicily 81 Forebodings 83 Yellowfin tuna, in Hawaii 84 Santa -85 Wrap offerer 87 Deciding (to) 88 One-man bands, e.g.

89 Examine 91 Doe and hen 93 Vainglory 94 Construction bolt installer 98 Many a Utah churchgoer 99 Fish lurer 100 Vilify in print 101 By itself 103 Untethered 106 Time stretch 107 Tot's H2O 108 Composer Khachaturian 109 Create 110 Hip hangouts 112 Showing skill 114 Country's McEntire 115 Yemeni port 117 Part of ACLU: Abbr.

118 Fruity drink 119 Suffix with 31-Down or 93-Down

ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

Livestock BRING YOUR HORSES TO HIGHLANDS NC. 4 STALLS IN FIRST CLASS BARN FOR RENT. TWO PASTURES. TRAILER PARKING. SERVICES PROVIDED. ACCESS TO MILES OF FOREST TRAILS IN BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC HORSE COVE. TXT 828.200.3217

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Real Estate Announcements

WHITE-GLOVE SERVICE From America’s Top Movers. Fully insured and bonded. Let us take the stress out of your out of state move. FREE QUOTES! Call: 855-8212782

SUDOKU Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, Answers on 34 the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

38

www.smokymountainnews.com

August 4-10, 2021

WNC MarketPlace

Real Estate FOR SALE 11,000 sq foot commercial building on Main Street, Sylva.

9,000 sq feet heated, zoned general merchandise. $64/sq ft. Call for more info. Serious inquiries only. (828) 226-8572

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise ‘any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination’. Familial status includes children under 18 living with parents or legal guardians and pregnant women.

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

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RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL BROKER ASSOCIATE EMAIL: PAMELAWILLIAMS@BEVERLY-HANKS.COM CELL: (803) 528-5039 OFFICE: (828) 452-5809

WNC MarketPlace

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Smoky Mountain News August 4-10, 2021