Smoky Mountain News | October 11, 2023 by Smoky Mountain News

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October 11-17, 2023 Vol. 25 Iss. 20

MIA Air Force Capt. Fred Hall finally returns home Page 6 Haywood woman charged with embezzlement Page 15

CONTENTS On the Cover: In the early 1990s, Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower was in rough shape. Efforts to restore it led to the founding of Friends of the Smokies. Three decades later, the fire tower is getting another round of much-needed restoration as Friends launches a new program, an endowment fund called Forever Places that aims to preserve the park’s wealth of historic structures. (Page 28) A Sept. 28 photograph shows restoration work in progress on the tower. Holly Kays photo

News Clyde candidates discuss challenge, opportunity in a small town........................4 Vietnam veteran’s remains return to Waynesville........................................................6 Fred Hall Week proclaimed in Waynesville ..................................................................8 Cherokee museum announces name change ............................................................9 From streams to sidewalks, Sylva board candidates debate the issues ..........10 Chief Hicks suggests loan to fund cannabis business ..........................................13 Consolidation conversation to continue in Jackson County ................................14 Waynesville woman charged with embezzling from retirement home ..............15 Insurance Agents of N.C. honors Waynesville woman ..........................................17

Opinion The beauty of simple, unadorned travel ......................................................................18 Advice from a 13th-century philosopher ....................................................................19

A&E

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October 11-17, 2023

Rising Vermont alt-country duo returns to Waynesville..........................................20 Pumpkinfest rolls into Franklin........................................................................................24

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The town of Clyde (in pink) is relatively small compared to its extra-territorial jurisdiction (grey). Canton’s ETJ looms just to the east. Haywood GIS photo

Hemmed in and busting out The town of Clyde faces challenges alongside opportunity BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR hings are changing in Haywood County’s smallest incorporated municipality. Although there are only 754 registered voters in Clyde, the town plays a central geographic and economic role in how the county itself will, or will not, thrive and grow in the 21st century. With the recent demise of the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill just a few miles to the east and the end of a moratorium on new water lines, Clyde is now poised for growth. But as in neighboring municipalities, elected officials must balance the need for maintaining a healthy tax base with the desire to maintain the small-town character of the place. Mayor Jim Trantham, who’s served in Clyde’s government for decades, isn’t up for election this year and will continue to be a guiding force, using his irreplaceable institutional knowledge to shepherd Clyde’s governing board into its newest incarnation. Incumbents Frank Lay and Diane Fore

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aren’t up for reelection and will remain on the board, but John Hemingway, who is moving outside the county, didn’t file for reelection. Incumbent Alderman Dann Jesse, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the town’s Board of Aldermen early in 2015, won election to the board that year and was reelected in 2019. Jesse seeks to retain his seat, but because of Hemingway’s departure there will be at least one new face on the board next year — two, if Jesse doesn’t win. Also vying for a seat on the board are Amy Russell, Kathy Cogburn Johnson and two additional candidates who did not return multiple requests for interviews.

DANN JESSE Jesse graduated from Miami of Ohio’s pulp and paper program and retired from Pactiv Evergreen at the end of last year, after more than 42 years of service and mere months before the company announced it would shutter the mill. “It was a gut punch,” he said. But the blow hasn’t really even landed yet. Jesse estimates somewhere around 100 to 150 families in the town have been affected, prompting concern that some of them might move out of town to seek work elsewhere. Clyde is also still dealing with the afteref-

fects of the 2021 floods that devastated Canton and to a lesser extent affected Clyde. A number of prime properties have been condemned as a result of the flooding — as well as flooding in 2004 — stifling opportunities for residential growth.

“We have seen an influx of people that are getting on Interstate 40 from Clyde and heading to Asheville to work. Housing is an issue. We don’t have a lot of space.” — Dann Jesse

“I think the biggest issue for us right now is, as we have seen, Haywood County has kind of become a bedroom community for Asheville,” Jesse said. “We have seen an influx of people that are getting on Interstate 40 from Clyde and heading to Asheville to work. Housing is an issue. We don’t have a lot of space.” Clyde is not unique in facing the challenges associated with a housing market that

has made homeownership all but impossible for the average resident of the county. However, there’s a unique opportunity for development in Clyde’s cozy central business district. “I’d like to see our downtown get some business back in it, just to have some vitality,” he said. “You see what Waynesville and what Canton has done, and it’ll be interesting to see how Canton fares with the mill closing, but in our case, we have limited downtown space and we’d like to make it look presentable for people that come through and take a walk around.” The next board needs to deal effectively with Clyde’s limiting factors, but the key to the town’s ongoing vitality and significance is probably intergovernmental cooperation on one of the region’s most pressing issues. “We have a council of governments, where all the municipalities in the county and commissioners meet,” Jesse said. “I view that as a very important component of what your role is as an alderman for the town — it’s to be able to listen to what else is going on in the county, and interject when you feel the need to represent the town of Clyde in those discussions, on things like water.” Clyde purchases water from the town of Canton and pays the Junaluska Sanitary District to treat its wastewater. With the recent end of a moratorium on new water lines outside town limits, the town now has the tools to grow, should it so desire. The town’s water system currently has more outside customers than inside customers and doesn’t currently require annexation for outof-town homeowners to access the water resources, but it could. However, the floods, the shutdown of the mill and the yearslong wastewater treatment project in nearby Waynesville illustrate the precarious nature of water infrastructure in the county. “From a certain standpoint,” Jesse said, “I think sometimes the county as a whole needs to at least embark on something that says, ‘Okay, these communities can’t just live unto themselves.’ They need to be interconnected in that sense.”

KATHY COGBURN JOHNSON Kathy Cogburn Johnson, a native of Clyde and candidate for the Board, agrees. “I think the water and sewer lines they are continuing to update, that’s what I think is the main concern,” Johnson said. Johnson is the retired manager of First Citizens Bank in Canton and currently serves as a member of the town’s planning board. She admits to being bored with retirement and also occasionally works part-time for the town, answering phones and processing water payments when necessary. Basically, her professional life has been devoted to customer service, in one way or another. “I want people to be able to come to me and tell me their concerns, and hopefully I can help them,” Johnson said. She said she’s satisfied with how the town responded to flooding in 2021, as well as in 2004, after which the

“... the water and sewer lines they are continuing to update, that’s what I think is the main concern.” — Kathy Cogburn Johnson

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And as a business owner, Russell says she has some ideas how to combat what she calls stagnation in the downtown development arena. She referenced pushback against a proposed brewery, and wants decision-making to take on a faster pace. “I am committed to Clyde,” she said. “I am committed to the community, the overall wellness of our community, and bringing in businesses and residents as we can.” The last day to register to vote in the 2023 municipal election is Friday, Oct. 13. Early voting for the municipal election begins on Thursday, Oct. 19. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. To check your registration, find your polling place, request an absentee ballot or find answers to other election-related questions, visit the North Carolina Board of Elections’ website, ncsbe.gov. Two other candidates did not return emails and calls requesting interviews for this story.

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That opinion puts Johnson squarely on the side of the vast majority of elected officials in Haywood County, including the Republican Jesse and the entirety of Clyde’s current board. It also lines up with the views of another aldermanic candidate, Democrat Amy Russell. “We can’t do this. I mean, it shouldn’t matter,” Russell said. “It should be about the people who want the best for our community.” Russell was born in Clyde, but grew up off Allens Creek. She did venture outside the area once or twice, but always returned and has called the town home for a decade now. She owns two businesses in Clyde, a dog grooming operation and a canine-centric retail store, but for the past 23 years has worked for Champion Supply, a janitorial

“With us having to buy our water from Canton, we have no way to produce that water,” she said. “And then on the backside of that having the wastewater which is twice as expensive to get rid of, a lot of people don’t realize that when they do get their water bill later.”

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October 11-17, 2023

Like Jesse, Johnson is aware of the affordable housing crisis and the town’s geographical limitations, but points to an increasing supply of homes in the immediate vicinity of downtown. On downtown and its continuing struggle for vibrancy, Johnson also points to the brighter side of things, despite the town’s limitations. “There’s 55 businesses in Clyde right now. I only know of one building for sale, and I don’t know if it’s sold yet or not,” she said. Johnson is in favor drawing business interest to the town through advertising, or simply talking more to economic development professionals about the opportunities there, including the comparatively low property tax rate of 43 cents. Clyde’s elections are nonpartisan, and Johnson is registered as an unaffiliated voter. She’s aware of the as-yet unsuccessful efforts of Rep. Mark Pless (R-Haywood) to force Haywood County towns to conduct municipal elections in a partisan manner, but she’s opposed to the idea.

supply company in Asheville, where she’s the operations manager. She’s also served on the zoning board for the past four years, and sits on the county’s greenway council. Affordable housing is a concern for Russell, who sits on the local Habitat for Humanity board. She foresees the closing of the mill as a driver for the local real estate market, and wants Clyde to be ready for it. “Anytime that we can do anything to do that, we need to try,” she said. “Even finding these vacant lots that nobody’s done anything with and bringing them to the attention of people and saying, ‘Hey, what are you going to do with that lot?’” Largely content with the job the town’s done in recovering from the most recent flood, Russell said she’s also pleased with the town’s utilization of some of those condemned properties — as a small orchard. She does, however, wish that cleanup on the river banks would proceed a little more quickly. She’s also concerned that water could be an impediment to the town’s development. “With us having to buy our water from Canton, we have no way to produce that water,” she said. “And then on the backside of that having the wastewater which is twice as expensive to get rid of, a lot of people don’t realize that when they do get their water bill later.”

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town planned and constructed River’s Edge Park, which is designed to flood when the Pigeon River slips its banks. Johnson is also pleased with the way the town has responded to the mill’s closing — working with affected families on things like water billing — but remains concerned over their ultimate fate. “Down at Sentelle’s or the Dollar General when you talk to people, I know there’s some that have moved and gotten jobs in the Asheville area when they got laid off and there are several that have moved to other states, which I can understand,” she said. “There’s not a lot of companies that pay what [Pactiv Evergreen] did.”

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‘We never leave anybody behind’ Vietnam veteran’s remains returned to Waynesville BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR or the first time in nearly 55 years, a Waynesville native and Air Force captain who didn’t return from his mission over Quàng Nam Province in South Vietnam is finally back among his family, friends and loved ones. Fred Hall, a hero, has come home. Fred’s journey began in Waynesville in 1943, where he was born to Robert “Birdie” Hall and Irene “Reeney” Galloway. A bright student and talented musician, Fred graduated from the University of North CarolinaChapel Hill and enlisted in the Air Force in 1967. Around that time, he met and married Julia Jean Keith, a Texan who was crowned Miss Houston in 1965. In February 1969, after completing navigator training, Hall was deployed to the southeast Asian theater. Less than two months later, on April 12, 1969, Hall and his pilot Col. Ernest DeSoto crashed into a steep hillside under heavy cloud cover while returning from a mission . Their fate remained largely a mystery for decades. Both were listed as missing in action. Hall’s journey home began on that hillside in 1995 when the crash site was rediscovered, although it would be another two decades before a Vietnamese excavation team was able to recover evidence from the site — aircraft debris and osseous remains. A joint forensic review conducted with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency and their Vietnamese counterparts determined that there was a high likelihood that the remains were those of American servicemen. The remains were repatriated in 2021, and formally identified by the DPAA this past March.

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October 11-17, 2023

“We’re bringing him home now. It’s about time he came home. I just got respect for him. I don’t know how else to explain it.” — Joe Taylor, Navy veteran

DeSoto was buried in Golden Gate National Cemetery on June 30. Hall’s remains were brought back to Waynesville on Oct. 8, thanks to the combined efforts of hundreds of people who’d never met him and had likely never even heard of him until very recently. “I can relate to some of these guys,” said Joe Taylor, a Navy veteran of 23 years. “This guy we’re supposed to meet today, he was 6 killed in the Vietnam War and I guess they

Capt. Fred Hall’s widow Julia (left) looks over his flag-draped casket with Don Cooper (right) of Wells Funeral Home. Bob Scott photo must have just identified him.” Taylor is part of a fraternal organization of motorcyclists called the Patriot Guard Riders, formed years ago in response to a Kansas church that had protested the funerals of soldiers — ostensibly for defending a licentious, godless nation. The Riders would form a human wall between the protesters and mourners to shield them from verbal abuse. Thankfully, that doesn’t happen as often as it used to, so the Riders mostly spend their time now at the head of motorcades, escorting the remains of fallen soldiers to their final resting places. Taylor rode into the

parking lot of Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport on a sunny Saturday morning and was quickly joined by dozens of other Riders who would escort Hall back to Waynesville upon his arrival. “We’re bringing him home now,” Taylor said. “It’s about time he came home. I just got respect for him. I don’t know how else to explain it.” Dignitaries from the Vietnam Veterans of America were also in attendance, including Sam Brick, South Carolina state council president. Brick explained that the group has 10 chapters and about a thousand members who make it a point to pay their

respects when the remains of a servicemember are returned to the Palmetto State, no matter where they’re from originally. “This is one of our people, and it means a lot to us,” Brick said. “It really does.” Brick was joined by Jack McManus, the national president of VVA who splits his time between North Carolina and Florida. “We never leave anybody behind. That’s our goal,” he said. “Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another, and we are certainly not going to abandon our brothers from our era.” Some Vietnam veterans were treated with contempt after the

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A detachment from Shaw Air Force Base prepares to escort Capt. Fred Hall’s remains to a waiting hearse. Cory Vaillancourt photo

October 11-17, 2023 Dozens of motorcyclists escorted Capt. Fred Hall’s remains from Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport to Waynesville on Sunday, Oct. 8. Cory Vaillancourt photo said. After Fred’s casket was transferred from the hearse to the funeral parlor, a long line of people waited in line to speak with Julia. “I told them how much it meant to me that they came,” she said. “I was absolutely in awe and thankful and so pleased. This country, it has hope, because of down-toearth people like that, coming together. I’m

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tion as like a dam breaking. war, a fact that lingers just beneath the sur“It was emotionally wrenching. I don’t face of all the dignified ceremony that know what that emotion is,” she said. “It was accompanies repatriations like Hall’s. the first time I’ve been with Fred in over 54 Air Force Technical Sgt. Erica Phillips, a years. That moment in time, after all the native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was on time we spent apart, that moment in time is hand with an honor guard detachment from all we have together until we meet again in Shaw Air Force Base. Phillips and her unit the hereafter.” carried Hall’s flag-draped casket from the During the twocargo hold of a Delta hour trip from the Airlines commercial “It was the first time I’ve airport to flight out of Atlanta to a hearse stationed been with Fred in over 54 Waynesville, led by state and local law nearby on the taryears. That moment in enforcement agenmac. cies as well as the A small crowd of time, after all the time we Patriot Guard Riders, relatives gathered Julia marveled at the outside the aircraft to spent apart, that moment flags swaying gently watch Phillips and in time is all we have from highway overher team do their passes along the work as onlookers in together until we meet route and waved to the airport terminal again in the hereafter.” people who had gazed reverently at stopped to line the the lock-step military — Julia Hall Coffey roadsides. precision with which Her entire jourHall was received. “It helps to honor our military members, ney, she said, was marked with kindness and compassion — from the baggage agents at especially those that were active duty,” Houston’s airport to the man who wanted to Phillips said of her task. “Unfortunately, he donate barbecue for the reception. had passed several years ago, and his Once the lengthy procession had snaked remains have just been found. So he’s still up Russ Avenue to Walnut Street and onto honored with that due diligence, that North Main, Fred and Julia were greeted by respect.” dozens of well-wishers and another honor Fred’s widow Julia was there as well, havguard at Wells Funeral Home. ing been informed only days before that he would be arriving in Greenville on the same “It was incredibly monumental,” she plane as she was. She described the revela-

sure Fred and Mr. Hall and Mrs. Hall were looking down, and I’m sure they were ecstatic.” Capt. Hall was buried in Green Hill Cemetery on Tuesday, Oct. 10, as The Smoky Mountain News was going to print. Look for coverage of the service in next week’s issue, available online and on newsstands on Wednesday, 7 Oct. 18.

More than half a million low-income, uninured North Carolinians will gain access to comprehensive health coverage when Medicaid expansion launches on Dec. 1, 2023. Nonprofit Pisgah Legal Services is here to help people in Western North Carolina enroll in Medicaid and understand their options for coverage. Pisgah Legal has spent a decade advocating for this change and is proud to help make it a reality for people in this region. Medicaid expansion will make low-income adults ages 19-64 who have incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level eligible to enroll in Medicaid. This is roughly $20,000 for a single person or $41,000 for a family of four. Coverage will be comprehensive and include services such as primary care visits, hospital stays, maternity care, vision, hearing and more. Pisgah Legal is poised to help people start the Medicaid enrollment process as soon as expansion launches. Pisgah Legal’s certified Navigators help local people find quality, affordable health insurance plans. Pisgah Legal’s NC Medicaid Ombudsman Program can help current Medicaid beneficiaries who are experiencing problems with their plans. To make an appointment for free help enrolling in Medicaid or exploring your options, visit www.pisgahlegal.org/health or call 828.210.3404.

Waynesville proclaims Fred Hall Week Days before the remains of Capt. Fred Hall were returned to Waynesville for burial after he went missing in Vietnam more than 54 years ago, the Waynesville Town Council bestowed a special honor on him. “Whereas Captain Fred M. Hall is an outstanding son of Haywood Country, having lived most of his life here, impressing all those who knew him with his high moral fiber, devotion to God, love of his family, his friends, and a willingness to help others in times of need and love for these mountains of Western North Carolina … now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Waynesville Town Council that the week of October 8 through October 14, 2023, is Fred Hall Week,” reads a proclamation signed by Mayor Gary Caldwell on Oct. 7. Hall, a native of Waynesville, did not return from a combat mission on April 12, 1969. He served as a navigator on an F-4 Phantom and was listed as missing in action until earlier this year, when his remains were formally identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Language in the proclamation is nearly identical to that of a similar resolution declaring Oct. 11-18, 1974, as Fred Hall Week. On Oct. 8, Hall’s remains arrived at Greenville-Spartanburg Fred Hall is the only MIA listed on the monument outside the old courthouse. Cory Vaillancourt photo International Airport before escort back to Wells Funeral Home in Waynesville. On Oct. 10, Hall was laid to rest at Waynesville’s historic Green Hill Cemetery. — Cory Vaillancourt, Politics Editor

October 11-17, 2023

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Reclaiming the name BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER hen Shana Condill stepped in as Cherokee’s new museum director, she expected questions about the museum’s name — and her instinct quickly proved correct. “Right when I arrived, which has been about two and a half years ago, our staff was already asking those questions,” she said. Established in 1948, the downtown museum charged with preserving and telling the millennia-old story of the Cherokee people was known as the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. But on Indigenous People’s Day, celebrated Monday, Oct. 9, the museum announced a new name, and branding to match. The 75-year-old institution will now be known in English as the Museum of the Cherokee People, and in Cherokee as Tsalagi idiyvwiyahi igatseli uweti asquanigododi, which roughly translates to, “All of us are Cherokee people. It is all of ours, where the old things are stored.” The questions Condill took upon starting the job dealt mainly with the words “museum” and “Indian,” questionable terms for some Cherokee people.

first arrived in the Americas, thinking he’d found a westward route to the Indian Ocean. The name stuck. In federal law, “Indian” is the legal term used in reference to Native tribes. English speakers, sometimes even Native people, use it in conversation. It’s imbedded in the names of tribes —the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, for example. However, in many circles it’s fallen out of favor, as it doesn’t accurately describe who these Native tribes are or where they’re from. It’s a name that was given them, not one they chose. For a long time, Condill said, locals would drop the word “Indian” when referring to the museum, calling it simply “Museum of the Cherokee.” “I feel it’s inclusive,” graphic designer Tyra Maney, who created the new logo, said of the name change. “With the word ‘Indian,’ some Cherokee people like it, some are indifferent, and others don’t identify with it — I felt like it wasn’t representative of our community if the museum had a name that excluded part of our community.” Condill reiterated Maney’s opinion that the new name better represents the entire tribe but said the meaning goes beyond that. “I also just really love the idea of personifying who we are,” she said. “If we keep the word ‘museum’, which is a colonial institution, then add the word ‘people,’ then it makes it impossible to think of us as a dying race.”

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The new logo uses colors and design elements that represent the unique culture and homeland of the Cherokee people. Museum of the Cherokee People logo Going along with the museum’s new name is a new visual brand. Like the earlier logo, the new symbol uses an image of a water spider, a creature that, in the Cherokee creation story, brought fire to the people and animals who lived on these lands. However, the new logo trades motifs borrowed from Southwestern tribes for hues and motifs that speak to Cherokee culture. The color palette comes from the blackberries, evergreens, rhododendrons, touch-menots and mountain haze that characterize the Southern Appalachian region. Design elements within the spider’s image pay homage to Cherokee bandolier bag and pottery designs, and to the three worlds Cherokees believe must remain in balance for life to function — Sky World, where birds come from; Middle World, where humans and four-legged animals live; and Under World, where aquatic animals live. Typical designs show an “x” or +” on the spider’s back, but the new logo displays a pinwheel, representing the continuous adap-

Julia Boyd Freeman Council Member, Town of Waynesville

“Committed to community, dedicated to progress” I will continue to support viable and sustainable growth while preserving our small town heritage and building a stronger town. I will continue to make decisions in the best interest of the town, its citizens and the environment. I will continue to work at finding positive solutions to issues facing Waynesville while promoting the best long-term interest of the town and its taxpayers.

Smoky Mountain News

When museums depicting Native peoples began popping up in the 1800s, Condill explained, they treated these tribes as “curiosity cases,” their displays aimed at “documenting a dying culture.” Many Native people hesitate to use the word “museum,” she said. In their minds, the word represents a colonized, exploitative institution. But Condill, who spent her childhood visiting museums with her parents and her adulthood working in them, has a different view. In fact, she wrote her undergraduate thesis on how museums can be a medium to correct stereotypes in Native American representation. “I feel pretty strongly about reclaiming the word ‘museum’ and making it ours,” she said. “So that was something that I’ve advocated for.” The next question was what to do about the word “Indian.” It comes from Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, who dubbed the native people “indeos” when he

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Cherokee museum chooses new name, branding

inventory and installs a new exhibit in the tation and evolution of Cherokee culture. temporary space. This will be the only exhibit Condill said she’d been at the museum for for some time as the museum moves forward about a year when Maney approached her with some preliminary design ideas — making with plans for an overhaul of the permanent exhibit, created in 1998. There is no firm date for an unexpectedly emotional moment. For for the exhibit’s projected reopening, but Native institutions, working with designers is Condill said the board is “super interested in often a challenge, Condill said. thinking about how we can phase construc“We see a lot of feathers, we see a lot of tion” to allow incremental reopening of the Southwestern colors, and so to see yourself display. represented in design is so unique and rare “It’s a priority for me and the board that that it’s really moving,” she said. we have some sort of public-facing space that The new name and logo are now on full people can go to,” she said. display on the museum’s new website, motcp.org. The rebrand comes at a time of intense planning for the 75-year-old museum. Last year, staff removed a slew of objects determined to be inappropriate for public display in a museum toured by Museum staff smile from a parade float during last week’s Cherokee 83,000 people per Indian Fair, during which the name change was announced. year — objects looted Museum of the Cherokee People logo from gravesites or The museum is also juggling another big used in religious rituals, for example. The project — a 30,000-square-foot archive facility empty spaces in the display cases were filled to be built across U.S. 19 from Kituwah with pieces from 36 Cherokee artists. The Mound. The building will offer expanded exhibit, called “Disruption,” was slated to end space to properly store Cherokee artifacts, in a in September, but the artists have all renewed much-improved environment from the 1976 their agreements through the end of museum building where they now reside. December. Construction is expected to start in January After Dec. 29, the museum will close for “a 2025 and conclude by the end of 2026. month or two” while it completes its annual

VOTE Nov. 5th

Paid for by the Friends of Julia Boyd Freeman Committee

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Three seats up for Sylva Town Council

Three seats are up for election on the Sylva Town Council this election cycle. Hannah McLeod photo --------HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER hree seats are up for election this November on the Sylva Town Council, and six candidates are competing for those spots. With several big projects on the horizon for the town, more than 50 people attended the Sylva candidate’s forum Thursday, Sept. 28. In addition to taking questions from the crowd and speaking their mind on issues facing Sylva today, candidates implored people to get out and vote, and to encourage family and friends to do the same. A selection of their answers are recorded below. Indivisible Common

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October 11-17, 2023

Ground WNC hosted the event and Lauren Baxley emceed. Mark Jones, not to be confused with the county commissioner of the same name, was the only candidate not in attendance. Smoky Mountain News spoke with Jones later to get his answers to questions from the event. Early voting runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Oct. 19 until Nov. 3, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Jackson County Board of Elections. Voters are now required to show ID when voting, but a special voter ID can be requested from the Board of Elections during early voting. Election day is Nov. 7. Incumbent council members Ben

Guiney, Greg McPherson and Brad Waldrop have all filed to run for reelection. McPherson, an assistant professor at Western Carolina University and exhibition designer at the WCU Fine Art Museum, has been on the board since 2015. Guiney, an emergency room doctor, has lived in Sylva since 2014 and was first elected to the town board in 2019, following three years on the town’s planning board. In addition to sitting on the Jackson County Planning Board, Sylva native Waldrop, co-owner and general manager of Ward Plumbing, Heating & Air, is the board’s newest member after being appointed to the seat left empty when

David Nestler was appointed to former Mayor Lynda Sossamon’s vacant seat. Also in the race are Luther Jones, Mark Jones — no relation to each other — and Blitz Estridge. Chair of the town planning board and former Jackson County Historical Commission member Luther Jones is retired following a career in theater and film programs at WCU. A Sylva resident since high school, Estridge holds a degree in electrical fundamentals and owns Dillsboro-based Catamount Electric. Mark Jones, the only candidate who did not attend the forum, is a lifelong Sylva resident who has spent 30 years as a sales manager at a local business.

How will you manage Fisher Creek Watershed Fund for sustainability into the future?

Ben Guiney: “It’s got to go back into the park, whether it’s water conservation or the park itself. Recently we’ve used some money from the Fisher Creek Fund to do a botanical study and we also talked about using some money from that fund to do a study for the Blackrock section as well for a master plan study … But as far as keeping that park alive, that’s something I’ve brought up in the past, whether that’s going to turn into user fees at some point in time … Folks that are using these outdoor facilities, we have to maintain them, and unfortunately sometimes we have to attach some fees on it to keep that beautiful place the way it is.”

How will you balance the budget with revenue losses coming from N.C. 107? Ben Guiney: “In order to plan ahead, when we know things are coming, like the 107 project, we start thinking about how we’re going to have to cut back in the future, what wants are not going to happen, they’re going to get pushed back. We’ve got a great town manager, great town staff that’s able to crunch the numbers and come up with it … Less than five businesses are leaving Sylva due to the 107 project and new spots are being built, like on Skyland to house new businesses.” Mark Jones: “My priority will be to cut spending and avoid property tax increases. Sylva’s town manager expects a major shortfall next year. With the looming loss of businesses and sales tax revenues we will have to get very creative during this period of disruption. The town also faces critical shortages in its capital reserve fund. Hard choices are ahead of us.” Greg McPherson: “The reason that I voted to raise taxes is because I think that everybody that works for the Town of Syva should have a high standard of quality of life, and that’s sometimes painful for people … This is not just about this board raising taxes, this is about our community moving forward… I do know that the majority of businesses that are being relocated or have lost their buildings have been relocated. There is assistance from Southwestern [Community College] and there’s a lot of people working behind the scenes tirelessly, communicating with the people that are being relocated. I look forward to 107 being done and there being new areas that we can attract new businesses to this community, and I think it will all balance out in the end.” Brad Waldrop: “What’s being said about businesses having support and many of them not actually leaving the town is definitely accurate. That’s observable in the community, but there is

Blitz Estridge: “I think we must have a plan in place. The 107 construction project is a big project that needs attention now and planning and budgeting ends to be the hot topic. We need to work with the DOT and with the county also, going out and talking with business owners, getting their ideas and seeing what

What are the top three things you want to change or improve in the town?

Luther Jones: “I know how we can mitigate it. But it’s not something we can do as a town by itself, it’s something that we have to do in cooperation with the county. The state sales tax in this state is 7.5% maximum. The state itself takes 4.75%, this county takes less than the maximum, therefore we have a 7% sales tax in this county. If we added one half cent on the dollar, the Town of Sylva would pick up roughly $190,000 a year. We get right now $873,000 in sales tax from the county each year. What if we could add another $190,000? That becomes a use tax. The problem with a property tax is that it’s hitting people who live here. A use tax is going to be transferred to people who are traveling through here, people who are tourists. I’m not anti-tax, but I am anti-property tax increases because we’re hurting the people that live here.”

Ben Guiney: “I want to change the town to make it more walkable, more bikeable, safer for

S EE COUNCIL, PAGE 12

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Brad Waldrop: “This is the kind of question that we need a specific answer to, but I don’t know enough about how the fund exists now to answer how we would work together to keep it going into perpetuity. I do think it’s very important. I do have experience, for what it’s worth, managing fairly large financial budg-

Mark Jones: “I believe the watershed funds should be hands-off for any purposes other than protecting the watershed.”

they think. I’ve been doing that actually with a lot of feedback on it. But this project is going to transform our town, and we must work together and help the citizens deal with the construction and the traffic.”

October 11-17, 2023

Greg McPherson: “We don’t dip into that fund lightly. These are projects that this board sees as furthering our commitment to the environment, which is the future. That study that we did, that was very important that we catalogue the fauna that was there and get rid of that invasive species that is taken out of that park. It’s all about leverage, it’s all about partnerships … [The Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River] they go around and take water samples from all parts of the creek to see if there’s anybody polluting and are sort of like water police. They’re out there all the time Greg McPherson. as volunteer workDonated photo ers, and I hope that we can find more partnerships like this … We try to reinvest that money so that we have some for the future, for future boards to use, because we know that there’s going to be more challenges to the environment in the future.”

Blitz Estridge: “I think all creeks are important for Jackson County, it’s what makes it a great place to live. I have talked to Ken Brown about the association for the watershed, he’s very knowledgeable and very passionate about what he does. And our company has actually contributed to that association. I think it’s a great thing Ken’s doing. It’s a lot to learn with our creeks and how it works and the ecosystem.”

still going to be probably an impact to the budget. Approaching that, you can increase revenues, or you can decrease expenses … We don’t have a lot of opportunities to decrease expenses, especially in a community that is, by all accounts, growing. We’re left with trying to find ways to increase revenue. We can do that by attracting businesses, trying to do everything we can to help the businesses that we have, stay. I think we’re doing a pretty good job of that. There are certainly inevitabilities about the highway expansion that really can’t be changed. But there are resources for businesses that are being utilized, we know success stoBrad Waldrop. ries already. We Donated photo have to do everything we can to protect those businesses and when needed, attract more businesses to the county that will provide good jobs and provide more tax revenue.”

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Luther Jones: “I will be honest with you; I don’t know that much. At the same time, I can do the research to find out and I guarantee that I’ll do a better job than that if I’m elected. But we do need to take care of Fisher Creek, we do need to take care of the Luther Jones. watershed. I’m Donated photo very much in favor of the environment and recreation.”

ets, including in our business, so that’s something I would definitely put my effort toward and help with. I think I could add some value. I’d be happy to learn more; I’d like to learn more.”

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COUNCIL, CONTINUED FROM 11 pedestrians. Why am I the right person to do that? Because I ride a bike to work every day. I walk everywhere. … the second thing, I want to see the town be able to be more Ben Guiney. friendly for folks Donated photo with disabilities. That goes back to the ramp down from Bridge Park, the crosswalk signals. Why am I the person to do that? Because like a lot of things with the town board, you need a champion, and you need someone who really wants to do it. The third thing I’d like to do, I’d like the town to stop using Roundup. I’d like to find a different way to remove weeds in order to

protect rivers, because all of that stuff runs down. Why am I the person to do it? Because I care about that.” Greg McPherson: “The first on my list is more amenities. The getting around downtown is not the easiest thing for somebody who’s accessibly challenged. Those are the kinds of things that I would like to see so that everybody has the same opportunity to move through the town and in the town. The second would be the environment … Any building that the town has charge over, that it builds, I would like to be LEED-certified. I would like to see the town fleet move to electric. I think that would be a positive step for our culture. We spend a lot of money to Duke Energy for power every month. That is one of our main expenses. The third thing is the aesthetics of the town. That was one of the things that I ran on when I first started this. Looking for partnerships, looking for ways to celebrate the diversity of our community through art.”

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October 11-17, 2023

Brad Waldrop: “One, four-day workweek for everybody. Already did it for our plumbers, they really enjoy it, so we’re going to start with that … I would like to see us work together to establish ways to have our buildings downtown better upkept. And

also, our sidewalks, that would kind of be our number two, there are cracked sidewalks around here. One, for safety reasons, it’s not safe to have sidewalks that are cracked and people trying to walk on them or get around them in other ways, but it’s also an aesthetic. And then, I also think the town needs to be more walkable. We’re going to have to address traffic flow in general in some ways. I’ve heard some really good ideas about that, but there hasn’t been any action. We do have opportunities to improve that as well and make it more walkable and safer, and more enjoyable for visitors and ourselves.” Blitz Estridge: “I can’t really think of anything that I would want to change. I love living here and I’d have to agree with Brad, I think some of the buildings and the sidewalks Blitz Estridge. need attention. Donated photo That’s something I would look at, but I hear good things about the police department, I hear good things about public works. I think they’re doing a great job, it’s just a great community.” Luther Jones: “I think there’s some things that need to be fixed. I’ll give you an example, the bath-

rooms down in Poteet Park. Why am I the one that wants to do it? Because I have a grandson and I take him down there … We have other things as well that we need to look at — the infrastructure, that we’re not thinking about at times. Let’s take the parking lot at the other end of town. There’s a wall there that’s beginning to crack and it’s beginning to sag in. If we don’t do something with it, it’s going to cave in and wreck some cars in there at some point in time … We need bathrooms in town, we really do, and I’m glad to see that you’ve moved ahead on that. Some of the things that need work have to do with amenities.” Mark Jones: “We need to build working relationships to address these critical challenges. My first priority will be to emphasize the fundamentals of government — public works, public safety and other core services. Given the financial constraints we will face, smart spending will be critical. We must manage town resources effectively during Mark Jones. the 107 project. Donated photo Lastly, I will prioritize building Sylva’s future so that we can recruit and develop businesses we need.”

Hicks proposes loan to fund cannabis enterprise

public. The Franklin Watch Party will be held at Macon County Public Library, located 149 Siler Farm Road, Franklin. Light food and drink will be provided. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and community members will watch the live-stream of the forum together starting at 7 p.m.

sought to find money available that was not tied to casino proceeds — using such funds could trigger repercussions from federal agencies — and as then-Principal Chief Richard Sneed grew increasingly concerned about what he saw as a worrying lack of transparency and accountability within the enterprise. During his last months in office, Sneed pressed Council to approve a forensic audit of the company, but legislation requiring the audit was never passed. Now, the issue of funding has become urgent. “To-date Qualla Enterprises, LLC, has

Smoky Mountain News

Macon County residents will not have to travel far to attend Pisgah Legal Services’ 13th Annual Justice Forum. A special Watch Party for the Oct. 17 event will be held at Macon County Public Library. This year’s Justice Forum speaker is Matthew Desmond, the Pulitzer-Prizewinning author of ’Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City,” which transformed understanding of inequity and economic exploitation in America. Desmond’s latest book, ”Poverty, by America,” investigates why the United States, the richest country on earth, has more poverty than any other advanced democracy. Why does this land of plenty allow one in every eight of its children to go without basic necessities, permit scores of its citizens to live and die on the streets, and authorize its corporations to pay poverty wages? The Justice Forum is free and open to the

with making a profit on behalf of the tribe in the cannabis industry, has been engaged for nearly a year now in at-times contentious conversations about funding with tribal leaders. In December 2022, Tribal Council approved the company’s $63 million request but said $53 million of that would have to come from a bank loan, guaranteed by the tribe. However, due to marijuana’s continued status as a federally illegal drug, securing such a loan proved impossible. Qualla Enterprises continued to discuss funding with Tribal Council as the body

October 11-17, 2023

Tickets available for forum with Pulitzer winning author

Principal Chief Michell Hicks presents his request to Tribal Council Oct. 9. EBCI Communications photo

spent more money than the Tribe has provided, presently does not have a source of revenue other than the Tribe and needs more money immediately or it will have to start laying off Tribal member employees,” Hicks’ resolution reads. In response to Hicks, newly seated Birdtown Rep. Jim Owle said that, should a work session be held, “we need to have the principals in here from the other group we went into business with,” likely referring to Sovereign Solutions Carolina, which is under contract to help with management of the enterprise. “We need to talk about maybe the contract, the percentage and everything else we have on the table,” Owle said. “I’d like for those folks to be here. I’d like to hear from their CEO of maybe what they’re looking at. Maybe we need to take a look at letting those guys be an investment partner. We’re doing all the investment here, and there’s no return right now.” Hicks did not respond to those points directly, but implied this might not be the moment to open such a wide-ranging conversation. “There is a concern just about payroll and making sure that this employee base is taken care of,” he said. “I think timing is of essence.” Tribal Council is next scheduled to meet at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 12.

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BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER n one of the first pieces of legislation of his new term, on Monday, Oct. 9, Principal Chief Michell Hicks presented Tribal Council with a resolution that would provide Qualla Enterprises an additional $19 million in funding — under certain conditions. Under the resolution, Qualla Enterprises — which to date has received $31 million from the tribe — would acquire the additional $19 million as a loan. It would be required to repay the principal with interest, and to agree to “other conditions as may be required.” Further, the resolution names specific members of tribal government that “shall” participate in discussions leading up to executing the loan. These include Tribal Council and the offices of the principal chief, vice chief, attorney general and budget and finance. “I’m going to ask that the resolution be tabled,” Hicks said. “I hope that we can go into a work session as soon as today to get into some details. I think that this is definitely headed in the right direction based on the information I have, but I still need additional information, and I’m sure some of the new Council needs additional information also to make a firm decision.” Qualla Enterprises, the LLC charged

Advance registration for the Watch Party is required, sign up at pisgahlegal.org/justiceforumwatchparty/. For more information about the event, contact Lori Nierzwick at 828-818-5474 or visit pisgahlegal.org/justiceforum.

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Dana Tucker, chair of the Department of Social Services Board of Directors, also spoke out against consolidation, saying that change is not always positive. “Changing the leadership structure of these two vital public service agencies without divulging the full scope of the proposed plans to dissolve the two sitting boards gives rise to questions of motives and political agendas,” said Tucker. “Jackson County residents are fully aware that DSS and the health department serve the most vulnerable populations in our county. State and federal audits of these agencies do not indicate deficiencies requiring a gutting or restructuring of the current boards … The plan changes that we’re talking about may be beneficial, but it also may be a train wreck, and I don’t know which one; if there’s no proposed restructuring plan, how are we supposed to know? How are you supposed to know?”

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Jackson continues consolidation conversation BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER The Jackson County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing over the possible consolidation of the Department of Health and Department of Social Services on Tuesday, Oct. 3. Despite receiving almost an hour of public comments from people opposed to the move, and three out of five commissioners expressing opposition, the board chose to proceed with the discussion. “I feel like we should push this to a work session for more general discussion, try and answer some of these questions,” said Chairman Mark Letson. The board was scheduled to discuss the issue during a work session Tuesday, Oct. 10, but opted to delay the conversation when the agenda item came up.

WHAT IS UP FOR DEBATE?

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The Board of Commissioners is considering three options for consolidation — and there is a fourth option that involves maintaining the status quo. The county currently operates with a health department board that provides oversight for operations and hires and fires the health director. The county also has a separate DSS board that’s in charge of hiring the DSS director. State law permits county commissions to consolidate these agencies and boards in a couple of different ways. “What’s being discussed is whether or not this board wishes to move forward with some type of consolidation,” said County Manager Don Adams. Under the first option, health and social services departments would not be consolidated, and commissioners would make up those boards and appoint the directors of both departments. In the second option, the departments would be consolidated into one human services agency. The health department board and the social services board would likewise be consolidated. The Board of Commissioners would appoint members to the consolidated board. The county manager would appoint a Consolidated Human Services director with advice and consent from the human services board, and that director would appoint someone with health director qualifications. Option three would also consolidate the health and social services departments into one human services agency. Under this option, the Board of Commissioners would assume the powers and duties of the consolidated human services board. The county manager would appoint a director for the agency with consent of the Board of Commissioners acting as the 14

consolidated human services board. That director would appoint a person with health director qualifications. “In any scenario in which you would take control of the health department board, it requires you to appoint an advisory board,” said Adams. “The advisory board would have similar requirements of the existing health department board.” The public hearing on Oct. 3 allowed for consideration of all options.

PUBLIC COMMENT Fifteen Jackson County residents spoke in opposition to consolidation during the public hearing, including several public health officials and people who work in the public health field. Their primary concerns included not understanding how changes would unfold and having partisan politicians in charge of the boards that are under consideration. “We are here today because Commissioner [John] Smith would like to insert himself into the daily operations of the health department and the social services department,” said Christine Taber. “This is a power grab, plain and simple. This reorganization should be tabled permanently.” “Commissioner Bryson, I have to say I echo your sentiments of not wanting Republicans or Democrats to be involved in our public health service. I, as a registered Democrat, I don’t want Democrats in charge of my health services, I don’t want politicians in charge of these services,” said Burgin Mackey, a student of public health. “I think it’s best to keep these services at the behest of people that have spent their lives, that have spent their entire careers focusing on the intricacies and the nuances of health departments of public health and of social services. I don’t see a benefit to consolidation and until those benefits are made plain to our community, I strongly urge this body to vote against consolidation.” David McGuire, a dentist in Jackson County who has served on the board of health for almost 40 years, spoke against consolidation, as did Colin Clayton, a new member of the health department board. Clayton noted the failed attempt at consolidation in 2018. “This has already been attempted and failed, so why attempt this again?” said Clayton. “My argument is really — is this going to provide better benefits for the employees? No. Better pay for the employees? No. Better training? Better qualifications? No. From a county resident standpoint, are we going to be able to provide more benefits, more services? No, we’re already doing that.”

WHAT’S NEXT? Commissioner Mark Jones has stated his opposition to consolidation, saying he has not yet seen a cost savings benefit to the move. Commissioner Tom Stribling, who sits on the health board, has also voiced opposition to consolidation, citing the fact that he has no medical background. Commissioner Bryson is also opposed because he does not think that partisan elected officials should oversee these departments. Commissioners John Smith and Letson have voiced their support for consolidation, putting them in a minority among the five-member board. Smith has noted that it would allow the county more flexibility with employee salaries. “If the board wishes to proceed forward then I would recommend that this conversation continue at work session, and if you choose not to move forward then the conversation does not continue,” said Adams during the Oct. 3 meeting. “I feel like we heard a pretty good idea of what we need to explain better and then make a decision based on that,” said Letson. “The goals and objectives are not clear so what we’ve decided at this point, I think we do have good goals and objectives, maybe we haven’t voiced it enough, at this point, but moving it to the work session will allow us more time to elaborate on the goals and objectives on any consolidation if we move forward with that. And allow us to get a little bit better feel as to how our constituents are really feeling and move in that direction.” Bryson asked if consolidation would allow the county to compete better pay-wise with surrounding counties. “Moving them over to the county system gives us more flexibility from what I understand, versus the state, because the state has ratios that you have to meet,” said Smith. “So, if you move one position’s salary it could affect other position salaries around it.” The State Human Resources Act, according to Adams, has a required salary plan and required separations between grades and functions. “Where you get a little bit limited in this conversation, under the current functions, is that if you tried to target certain positions, it does cause a chain reaction to potentially raise salaries that you weren’t intending to raise,” said Adams. “On its face, when you go away from the salary plan of the State Human Resources Act, generally speaking, it will give you more flexibility in regard to the pay scale.” Adams urged the board to remember that pay issues don’t exist solely within the Department of Social Services, that there are several other departments in the county experiencing the same problems. “Right now, the biggest stress in my conversations that I’m having directly with social services really relates to the child welfare issues,” said Adams. Commissioners voted unanimously to discuss the issue of consolidation further during the Oct. 10 work session. However, because Commissioner Smith was not at the meeting the board decided to postpone the conversation for a later date.

BY KYLE PERROTTI N EWS E DITOR week after Amy Elizabeth Curry was charged in federal court with wire fraud and money laundering, search warrants reveal how the Waynesville woman allegedly embezzled at least $1.5 million from a Haywood County senior living and care facility. A press release sent out by the office of Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, said that Curry had been charged in federal court. That release claims that an FBI investigation uncovered that throughout the time she was employed, Curry worked a scheme to defraud and embezzle the money from Silver Bluff — a scheme she was able to, for a time, successfully execute due to her sole access to and control over the company’s bank accounts and accounting records.

alleged that Curry had deposited $1.4 million into her accounts — as well as her boyfriend’s account — from Silver Bluff. During a subsequent conference call with fraud investigators from Chime and Pinnacle Bank, the investigator with Pinnacle noted that they’d located other accounts belonging to Curry that money had gone to; therefore, the total amount embezzled was likely in excess of the $1.4 million originally thought. Days later, the total was refigured to around $1.6 million. One account Curry had created had Silver Bluff in the name, a move she made as an alleged attempt to fool investigators into thinking the account was tied to her employer, even though it wasn’t. Just prior to Yates receiving the call about Curry’s activities, Curry changed her direct deposit to a bank account with State Employee’s Credit Union, and on March 28,

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October 11-17, 2023

Silver Bluff Village. File photo she transferred $9,870 and on March 29, she transferred $9,890, both just slightly lower than $10,000, the threshold at which transactions would be reported. Yates’ investigation continued, and, according to a search warrant, on June 29, he interviewed Curry’s boyfriend, who said he “was able to withdraw money from Chime in the amount of 25 to 28 thousand. Jackie stated he handed the money to Amy who paid a few bills and placed the remaining amount into her SECU account.” The affidavit ultimately requested that the accounts to which Curry was transferring funds be frozen for 90 days so he could wrap up his investigation without having to chase the money from one account to another. The wire fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The money laundering offense carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Prosecutors are seeking a money judgment in the amount of at least $1.52 million. Items seized as part of the investigation include four vehicles and a combined $117,867.49 from four bank accounts.

Have you had your RSV shot yet? AREXVY is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of LRTD caused by RSV in individuals 60 years of age and older.

Vaccination may not protect all recipients. LRTD = lower respiratory tract disease RSV = respiratory syncytial virus

Smoky Mountain News

“During a five-month period, Curry made at least 154 unauthorized bank transfers, and defrauded Silver Bluff by transferring at least $1.5 million from the facility’s bank accounts to bank accounts controlled by Curry and her then-boyfriend J.C. The indictment also alleges that in March 2023, Curry purchased a 2020 Ford F- 150 pick-up truck, using funds derived from the embezzlement of Silver Bluff,” the release reads. While Curry was eventually charged in federal court, she was initially indicted in state superior court a couple months prior after a Haywood County Sheriff ’s Office investigation. According to associated search warrants, Det. Taylor Yates was alerted to the situation on April 6, 2023, when a Silver Bluff administrator called to report a larceny by an employee — at that time, Silver Bluff believed Curry had stolen $1.4 million. When Yates met with the administrator, he was told that Silver Bluff was notified by Chime — an online bank Curry was using — that a fraud investigator noticed some suspicious activity. Specifically, it was

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Documents reveal how Waynesville woman allegedly embezzled $1.6 million

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Smoky Mountain News October 11-17, 2023

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Community Almanac

Smoky Mountain News

Waynesville resident receives statewide award The Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina has named Waynesville resident Kathleen “Merritt” Tongen of L.N. Davis Insurance Agency in Waynesville as its 2023 Young Agent of the Year for the state of North Carolina. Selected annually, this prestigious award recognizes an independent insurance agent under 41 years of age from across the state who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and performance for his/her agency, association, industry, community and family. The award was presented to Tongen during IIANC's InsurEXPO conference held Sept. 2829 in Winston-Salem. A current active member of the Young Agents “iLEAD” Committee, Tongen has been an integral part of the group. In addition to her involvement with iLEAD, she is the newly appointed chair of the Women IA-Executives Network, a group created exclusively for women who are independent agency owners or those in an executive leadership position within the agency. Tongen has worked in the insurance industry for the last ten years and has received her AINS (Associate in Insurance) designation. She is currently a managing partner at L.N. Davis Insurance Agency with her parents Gary and Kathy Lance.

On Oct. 1, Tekla Bonfoey retired as a North Carolina Probation and Parole Officer after 30 years of service. During the last 15 years of her service, she was a chief probation and parole officer in Guilford County. A few days prior to her retirement, Bonfoey was honored at a retirement ceremony and lunch attended by more than 50 active and retired fellow officers, and was presented with her service badge. In addition, Governor Roy Cooper honored Bonfoey by awarding her membership in the Order of The Long Leaf Pine. Bonfoey attended and graduated from Tuscola High School Class of 1988.

Haywood County seeking HHSA applicants The Haywood County Board of Commissioners is seeking applicants for several positions on the Haywood County Health and Human Services Agency Board of Directors. The Health and Human Services Agency Board meets the third Tuesday of each month (except July and December) at 6 p.m. at Health and Human Services. For more information about the duties and authorities of the HHSA Board, visit haywoodcountync.gov/818/HHSA-Board. Applications are being accepted for the following volunteer positions on the HHS Board: • A member representing the general public. Requirements for the position are that the candi-

date reside in Haywood County. • A consumer of human services/public advocate/family member of a consumer of human services. Requirements for the position are that the candidate reside in Haywood County. • A physician member. The candidate must be a physician currently licensed to practice, actively practicing in the State of North Carolina, and must reside in Haywood County. Qualified professionals are encouraged to apply. • A veterinarian member. Requirements for the position are that the candidate have qualifications as a veterinarian and reside in Haywood County. Current and retired veterinarians are encouraged to apply. • An optometrist member. Requirements for the position are that the candidate have qualifications as an optometrist and reside in Haywood County. Current and retired optometrists are encouraged to apply. • A social worker member. Requirements for the position are that the candidate have qualifications as a social worker and reside in Haywood County. Current and retired social work professionals are encouraged to apply. • A psychologist member. The candidate must have qualifications as a psychologist and reside in Haywood County. Current and retired psychologists are encouraged to apply. All appointees will be fulfilling a four-year term beginning Jan. 16, 2024. Upon expiration of the initial four-year term, first-term members are eligible to reapply for a second term. The application deadline for all positions is 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27. Application forms may be downloaded from the county website at haywoodcountync.gov/9/how-do-

Schedule an appointment to give by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org using Sponsor Code: WCUHomecoming or calling 1.800.RED.CROSS. Donors will also have two additional opportunities to give blood for the WCU Homecoming. The blood drives will continue on Tuesday, Oct. 24, and Thursday, Oct. 25, from noon until 5 p.m. at the WCU Hinds University Center. To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification. In most states, individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements. In North Carolina, individuals 16 and 17 years of age may donate with parental consent.

Discover Southern Appalachian Paranormal Culture in Franklin

Kathleen “Merritt” Tongen (right) of Waynesville was named by the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina as the Young Agent of the Year. Donated photo

Retired probation officer honored with ceremony

i, on the HHSA Board page haywoodcountync.gov/818/hhsa-board or picked up from the County Manager’s office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Haywood County Courthouse, third floor administration office, 215 North Main St., Waynesville. Completed applications may be returned to the County Manager’s office or attached to an email to Amy Stevens, Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, at amy.stevens@haywoodcountync.gov. For more information, contact the County Manager’s Office at 828.452.6625.

Make a blood donation at WCU homecoming The American Red Cross is partnering with Western Carolina University for the Celebrate Western Homecoming 2023 Blood Drive. The drive will be held on Friday, Oct. 13, at the WCU Hinds University Center Grand Room from 1-6 p.m. Eligible blood donors in the Cullowhee and Western North Carolina community can make an appointment and help boost and maintain the blood supply this fall. The American Red Cross is experiencing a national blood shortage. Fewer donors than needed gave this summer, drawing down the national blood supply and reducing distributions of some of the most needed blood types to hospitals. Donors of all blood types are urgently needed, and there is an emergency need for platelet donors and type O blood donors to make an appointment to give now to ensure patients across the country continue to receive critical medical care.

Next week, the series “Where We Live: History, Nature and Culture” will host a program, “Signs, Omens, and Ghost Stories in Southern Appalachian Culture.” Gregg Clark, a renowned local historian and storyteller, will be the speaker. Clark has been a teacher of English and history for 19 years, and he’s written two books, "Ghost Country Volume One: The Lost Hauntings of Southern Appalachia," and "Three Days in 63: The Unsolved Murder of Francis Bulloch.” His ancestors were founders of both Macon and Swain counties and have lived in the mountains for 200 years. The program will take place at Cowee School Arts and Heritage Center in Franklin beginning at 6:30 p.m. Monday, October 16.

Vecinos receives grant from T-Mobile Vecinos in Franklin received $50,000 from TMobile as one of the company’s 25 new Hometown Grant recipients. The cash infusion will help construct the bilingual community health center out of an acquired 16,000-square-foot warehouse, including integrated primary/behavioral healthcare and pharmacy, dental care, social services agencies, meeting spaces, health and fitness classes, community groups and arts to provide needed resources for the community. Since the program’s start, T-Mobile has provided nearly $357,000 to kickstart community development projects across North Carolina, including Laurinburg, Robersonville, Boiling Springs, Elizabeth City, Kings Mountain, Mars Hill, Marshall, Elizabethtown, Town of Princeville, North Wilkesboro, Wilkesboro and Goldsboro. T-Mobile awards Hometown Grants each quarter for up to 25 towns with a population of fewer than 50,000 people.

Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

The beauty of simple, unadorned travel

Democracy or fascism? To the Editor: Some people still believe that America is involved in a traditional Democratic/Republican political struggle. That is an illusion. What we are actually doing is grinding out our future system of governing. The struggle is between a fledgling Democratic Republic and an emerging wave of fascism which is clearly led by Donald Trump. The doors have been accidentally left open for this struggle by our original Constitutional framers. They wrote the original document with a couple of flaws that render our Republic very fragile. The first flaw was the assumption that those who would be elected president would instinctively protect and defend the Constitution. We are seeing in Donald Trump that that notion is simply not tenable. Trump is actually using the trust inherent in the Constitution to destroy the document’s principles on the way to a new form of government (fascism). The second glaring weakness of the Constitution is the Supreme Court. Can you

walked a bit more lightly as the path opened in front of me. I felt then that I’d become part of a brotherhood, a community of like souls. I stake claim to a place amongst this group only temporarily, really just a part of the clan while still here, paying for my spot via a pound or two of my own flesh. Lori and I have been trekking the Camino de Santiago in Spain along the Cantabrian coast from Irun — in the Basque land — to Santiago de Compostela for a month now. The backpacking worked for 15 days, then Editor an injury almost aborted what we had planned as a five-week adventure. When Lori’s foot would not heal after two days of rest, everything changed. The months of planning to walk this 500-mile ancient pilgrimage turned into a bike trek. We hasti-

Scott McLeod

The old man, hell he was probably my age, flagged me down after I passed his home and garden. “Buen Camino,” he called, waving me back. I initially thought the pie pan with the smashed bits of food was for his chickens, whom I could hear scratching and clucking behind his fence. He popped one of the nuts into this mouth and then held the tray out to me. Exhausted, I eagerly tossed one of what I think was a chestnut into my mouth and savored the tangy sustenance. He held out another, and afterward another. I looked at him with a smile and offered a line of my pitiful Spanish: “Tres es mejor,” meaning “three is better,” and he and I both said the words at the same time. We broke into laughter, and he clasped both my shoulders and repeated “Buen Camino!” I was dog tired, cussing my backpack and wishing I had brought less stuff, knowing I had more than 15 miles in front of me before reaching Guemes and the day’s end. But then the interaction warmed me, invigorated me, and I smiled and

ly rented mountain bikes and saddlebags, sent our backpacks to Santiago via the bike rental company, and began a twowheeled ride through the north of Spain. Biking in mainland Europe is so different than in the states. People here have so much more respect for cyclists and most of the roads have wide shoulders or even bike lanes. We cycle at home and had been walking for hours each day, so the fitness wasn’t a real challenge. As much as the foot injury hurt Lori and still pains her, it has become one of our best memories of this trip. At least five different people — and we are not done yet — have given her foot massages and offered up essential oils and home remedies. I keep asking what I have to do to get that kind of treatment, but it wouldn’t work for me. No, people see her limping and jump to action, asking all about it and telling her to take her shoes off. That’s the beauty of traveling with my wife and the wonder of the Camino. (Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com.)

LETTERS believe that it is a body of mere humans who are fallible who are appointed by politicians who have no written ethics to guide their behavior and maintain some faith by Americans that they weigh matters according to the Constitution? They are free to behave as they choose. We are now seeing those seeds produce bitter fruit. In recent times, Congress enacted yet another dangerous flaw called Citizens United. It allows corporations and wealthy influencers to buy legislation that fits their interests, not that of the American people. Can someone find me a corporation in ancestry.com? No, you cannot. They are not people. This may be what Benjamin Franklin feared when he replied, “A republic if you can keep it.” Right now, it appears that fascism has the upper hand in the struggle. Democracy is in a choke hold. Can our form of government withstand the onslaught of Donald Trump and the fascist regime he espouses? Not until/unless we see the struggle as what it is. Then we must amend the Constitution to pre-

vent breaches of trust that we are victimized by at this point in time. The movement toward a “more perfect union” cannot be facilitated by abandoning our Democratic Republic and drifting into a

fascist regime. Americans must choose to protect and defend the Constitution or risk losing our way of life. Dave Waldrop Webster

Air the laundry. 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 or mail to PO Box 629, Waynesville, NC, 28786

Advice from a 13th-century philosopher about idols

Susanna Shetley

Smoky Mountain News

or accumulation of resources), power (control over others), pleasure (feeling good) and fame (admiration from others; approval and respect from peers). The theory states that we make most of our daily decisions based on the pursuit of one or more of the four idols, only to find when we get close, we feel restless for more and more. Aquinas said that as we pursue these idols we distance ourselves from God and therefore feel separate from the “good” feelings we were seeking in the first place. Most people go through life unaware of which core idol they are pursuing. It’s a subconscious default setting that essentially runs on its own. The goal is not to avoid or reject the idols, but to become more aware of which one or ones you are chasing and how they affect your life and relationships. Additionally, modern prophets such as Deepak Chopra and Abraham Hicks offer the wisdom that the more we live from a place of love and light, the more we end up feeling the positive effects of the four idols without the negative consequences. When we act from a place of true intention, abundance, joy, deep friendships and peace are natural byproducts. Obviously. war is driven by ominous energy and the pursuit of one or more of the four idols. As history has demonstrated, running down an idol will never leave us feeling fulfilled. Terrorists who seek power and control will never truly feel a sense of joy or accomplishment. What they seek cannot bring anyone joy because it distances them from God and light. That is what is so sad about conflicts such as the ones in Israel and Ukraine. The death, destruction and heartbreak is purposeless, not to mention devastating. What can we do as individuals to help? We can stop seeking idols ourselves and work from a place of understanding and love. We can be walking examples of how humans are supposed to act. Research has shown over and over that changing our subconscious programming is 100% possible and always leads to a more joyful existence. I’m hopeful there will be a collective shift where people will move away from idols and toward love. Otherwise, we will always live in a place of unrest. All Mother Earth and God want is for us to be at peace within our souls and with one another. My heart is with the innocent Palestinians and the Israelis as well as Jews around the world who are suffering and dying because of this most recent brutal and unwarranted attack. (Susanna Shetley is a writer, editor and digital media specialist with The Smoky Mountain News, Smoky Mountain Living and Mountain South Media.)

October 11-17, 2023

never pretend to be an expert on current events. In fact, I mostly avoid the news because so much of it is doom and gloom or the same old political rhetoric. But, as we were driving home Sunday from a baseball tournament, an Instagram post made my heart skip a beat. It was a very normal autumn afternoon, the sun shining, a lovely fall breeze outside. Bored in the passenger seat, I got on my phone to peruse Instagram. The first post that Columnist popped up was from a business coach and podcaster I follow named Cathy Heller. It was a picture of Heller sobbing. The next slide was information about the Hamas attack on Israel. The information sounded so extreme, I was taken aback, wondering if it was another exaggerated social media outburst. After reading a few news articles, however, from Al Jazeera and the BBC, I realized that everything Heller had written was true and the situation was even worse than she’d described. Over 1,500 people have died in Israel and Palestine as of Oct. 10, including hundreds of children. When this column is published, there will have been many more casualties. I’m not diving into the minutiae of the conflict itself because I don’t want to misspeak or try and explain a situation that I’m still working to understand myself. With that being said, I do know a thing or two about false idols and humanity. I’ve always had a relatively strong faith, but over the past two years, I’ve grown deeper in my spirituality. This new level involves much more than simply a belief in a higher power. Through daily meditations and reading the works of Thich Nhat Hanh and Eckhart Tolle and texts such as A Course in Miracles, I’m discovering that at their core, all religions encourage the same thing – for people to spend their time on earth embodying love, light and compassion. It sounds like such a simple request, yet we humans make it so very complicated. It’s hard for deeply spiritual people like myself to observe others acting violently in the name of religion. Jesus, Muhammad, the Buddha, Ghandi, Mother Teresa or any spiritual leader would never murder, rape and avenge, especially in the name of God. The 13th-century Italian priest and influential philosopher, Thomas Aquinas, spoke of the four idols — money (financial wealth

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Get found again Rising Vermont alt-country duo returns to Waynesville BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & E NTERTAINMENT E DITOR or singer-songwriter Kelly Ravin, what sparked his ongoing musical journey was seeing a VHS tape as a kid of Lynyrd Skynyrd opening for The Rolling Stones in 1976 at the Knebworth Festival in England. “[Skynyrd] was asked by management to not walk out onto the tongue [that was part of the Stones stage setup],” Ravin reminisced. “And [Skynyrd’s] camaraderie in ignoring it [by walking on the tongue] made me fall in love [with rock-n-roll].” Now 38, Ravin is a cherished artist in the uber-talented sonic circles of his native North Country. At his melodic core, the Vermont troubadour remains singular in his honest pursuit of poignant lyrics, searing guitar tones and a captivating stage presence of grit and grace. “Songwriting has always been more fulfilling than other interests,” Ravin said. “I enjoy bending words where I feel they want to play with others. Whenever I’ve finished a song, there’s a true sense of gratification of completion, whether the song lives on or not.” The duo, aptly dubbed Jaded Ravins, is composed of Ravin and his partner, Halle Jade, a blend of Americana, rock, altcountry and indie-folk influences. It’s a concoction that’s heavy and heartfelt, of hardscrabble North Country winters and the unforgiving pavement of that lost highway — the genuine depths of lifer musicians who will sacrifice sanity and self in the name of the sacred act that is live performance. “As far as this current juncture, it’s all the same mantra — keep the drive as long as the parts are tuned and true,” Ravin noted. “I feel truly lucky to be able to do my best at something that’s from the heart and unswayed by anyone. It’s a symbiotic thing with intangible magic that you shouldn’t [mess] with egos — camaraderie is the basis.”

Want to go? Vermont-based Americana/indie act Jaded Ravins will hit the stage at 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at The Scotsman Public House in Waynesville. The show is free and open to the public. For more information on the duo, click on jadedravinsmusic.com. 828.246.6292 or scotsmanpublic.com.

In the years and endless miles leading up to Jaded Ravins’ inception, Ravin was a singer/guitarist for Waylon Speed, a wild-n-out group smack dab at the intersection of hard rock and outlaw country. A whirlwind of sound and spectacle, Waylon Speed has remained on hiatus for several years, with Ravin then venturing out on his own. “In the last few years, I’ve definitely realized that taking time and trying to step outside to look in at whatever is happening in life is the way for me to be — recording, being a partner, being a parent,” Ravin said. “Slowing down has made a drastic great shift. Slowing down has also made me realize the genuineness and honesty in our music that I assumed was always there, but wasn’t always hindered with my ‘what’s next’ mentality.” And what keeps Ravin going is what has always stoked the fire of intent within — an unrelenting drive to create and share his words and emotions with others. It’s the beautiful simplicity of an instrument and a voice. Three chords and the truth, as the old adage goes. “Give me a dive bar with a few like-minded people that might need help getting their own thoughts out of their heads by listening to a song, and my needs are met by providing assistance,” Ravin said. “We all play the game in front of us to the best of our sanity. But, at the end of the day, it’s sweat, strings, wood and wires — all things pass and all good lasts.” In his travels up and down the Eastern Seaboard, this

boomerang between Vermont and the bright lights of Nashville, Tennessee, Ravin remains inspired by the sights and souls he encounters along the way — geographically, emotionally, culturally and sonically. “People are generally good everywhere. Every place and person is different and beautiful if you have it in yourself to allow it to be acknowledged,” Ravin said. “I’m a firm believer that gallivanting and wandering leads to learning and acceptance. There’s no way to be honest and humble with heart and conviction if you stay idle in your home or town. I’m very lucky to play music in towns all around that are different from my own, [ultimately] realizing mine never was — just turned out to be my own happenstance.” When asked about the importance of the troubadour nowadays, Ravin will be the first to humbly state that “songwriting is silly, but it’s my silly.” And yet, he’ll also point out that when looking at the songwriter, what remains is a deep urge to connect amid the ether of time and place. “Everyone wants a microphone in their lives. And most don’t have the confidence, ability or an XLR [mic] to convey their thoughts, aside from the petty soap box given to most via social media, which I feel isn’t a fruit-filled box,” Ravin said. “But, those with the gumption and thoughtfulness to get onstage and let it all hang out will never fade — we all need an inspiration and a scapegoat of humility.”

HOT PICKS BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

Ode to Anna Marie, ode to the kids of Smith Street (and beyond)

Lineside at Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Red Clay Revival (Americana/indie) and The Borrowed Band at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14.

2 3 4 5

Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host Human Nip (rock) at 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14.

The Scotsman (Waynesville) will host Aaron “Woody” Wood & Friends (blues/rock) 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. Americana/bluegrass artist Darren Nicholson will hit the stage at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at Happ’s Place in Glenville.

We are now oﬀering more availability.

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828.246.9155 977 N Main St Waynesville NC 28786

Good Eats • Craft Cocktails Beer • Top Spirits • Wine

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Celtic Sundays W/The Carter Giegerich Trio - 2-5 pm Incredible Celtic Folk - Every Sunday Relaxation along with your Guinness!

TRIVIA TUESDAYS Every Tuesday 7:30pm-9:30pm

FREE TO PLAY Gift Certiﬁcate prizes for 1st & 2nd place teams

Thursday October 12th Bobby G • 8pm-10pm • Blues

Friday October 13th Aaron Woody Wood & Friend 8pm-11pm • New Orleans Funk - Blues - Rock, Bluegrass - Soul

Saturday October 21st Savannah Woods (from The Voice, Season 20) & full Band 7:30pm - 10:30pm

Smoky Mountain News

lights to destinations unknown. All of these people in all of their respective lives, each doing whatever they can to survive — dayto-day, year-to-year, come hell or high water. I thought about Anna. It’s a tragedy to see such a bright light extinguished so early in life. Wondering about her young family and what the future may hold for each of them. My mind soon turned to Bryce and how deeply I’ll embrace him with a hug at Pete’s wedding — a joyous celebration for all involved, every one of us holding tightly to memories of our youth, of RP and of our friend lost too soon in this sometimes cruel realm that is existence. Visions of that town up on the border. It’s a lot quieter now than when we were all runnin’ round. Companies have left town, so have many of us. Several of our parents still reside up there, and we visit from time-totime. No matter, the aging structures and cracked pavement hold the secrets of a place close to the heart of those who wander beyond the horizon. Those hallowed grounds of youth and adolescence and its remaining inhabitants, whether above or below the ground, are the foundation by which we conduct ourselves and pursue our dreams with a reckless abandon — for there is no other way to go but forward.

Welcome Kim Forman to our team!

October 11-17, 2023

tepping outside the small log cabin, I took a moment to collect my thoughts. Vast farm fields and ancient dirt in the rural countryside outside of Goldsboro, the cool air of an impending fall was felt with a sense of relief in a place where heat and humidity reign supreme. The home was owned by my girlfriend’s father. He had been gravely ill for a while now. At 68, his iron will was what was keeping him alive in this ongoing bout with brain cancer. Numerous surgeries with hope quickly fleeting. The house was heavy with sadness, my girlfriend, Sarah, a ball of tears, emotions and memories. Pulling out my phone on the back porch, I scrolled Facebook for a hot minute and came across a sorrowful post on the newsfeed. A lifelong friend from my hometown had passed away after an aggressive battle with brain cancer. Anna Marie. At just 40, she left behind two children and a devoted husband who was her high school sweetheart. A small community now at a loss for words. My heart sank into my stomach. I was well aware she was sick. And I knew it wasn’t looking good. But, in my heart-of-hearts, I figured if anyone could push through and overcome such an enormous, daunting obstacle, it would be Anna — she was just that ideal mixture of courage and conviction. Soon, social media was abuzz with countless tributes and remembrances of Anna. Posts from names and faces that I hadn’t seen since high school graduation some 20 years ago, of parents of friends I’d had as fixtures in my life since I emerged from the womb. The tiny Canadian Border town of Rouses Point, New York, mourning one of its finest. As one’s mind undoubtedly does in these instances, mine flooded with a stream of thoughts and memories. Anna was a genuine, beautiful soul. Her kindness knew no bounds. An incredible teacher and cherished community member. Fond memories of us Rouses

Point kids growing up on Smith Street, Mountain View Drive and Lakeside Avenue. To note, Anna’s younger brother, Bryce, is one of my oldest friends. And though our paths may only cross every so often at a wedding or holiday get-together back home in the North Country, the channels of communication remain open between all of us RP boys, now men scattered about the country — North Carolina to California, Illinois to Arizona. Those long gone days of riding bicycles between backyards to each other’s houses, swimming in nearby Lake Champlain in the summer, ice skating the same body of water come winter, onwards to teenage mischief of basement parties, out-of-town concerts and over-the-border shenanigans in Quebec. I called my mother and informed her of Anna’s passing. She spoke of how much she adored Anna, how she was her favorite student when my mom taught her in first grade at Rouses Point Elementary School. And how proud she was when Anna became an educator, eventually teaching in the same classrooms of her youth — instructing hundreds of students, some of whom being the children of her former classmates. Bidding adieu to my mom, I headed back into the log cabin. Sarah was sitting next to her father, who was laying in a hospital bed newly installed in the living room. Regardless of the current diagnosis, his spirit remained high. I looked at Sarah and admired her strength in this harsh crossroads of her life, which had also included losing her mother and grandmother in the last year. On the return drive to Waynesville from Goldsboro, I received a message from another childhood friend, Pete. He’s one of the old-school RP crew along with myself, Bryce, Kyle, Sean, Ryan and Lance, amongst a handful of other cronies. Pete’s getting married later this month on Long Island. He wanted to know if I was still planning on attending the celebration — “Of course, my brother. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Put me down for two. Y’all will love Sarah.” With Sarah napping in the passenger’s seat along the five-hour or so trek back to Haywood County, I kept getting lost in thought, the fading sun falling behind the Blue Ridge Mountains. Headlights and tail-

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This must be the place

ScotsmanPublic.com • 37 CHURCH STREET • DOWNTOWN WAYNESVILLE

The North Country is well known for its backroads. Garret K. Woodward photo

@thescotsmanwaynesville M-Th:4PM-12AM Fri-Sat:12PM-12AM Sun:11AM-12AM

arts & entertainment

On the beat Darren Nicholson will play Glenville Oct. 13. File photo

Woolybooger will play Franklin Oct. 14. File photo

Old-time blues/folk singer-songwriter Woolybooger will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, at Currahee Brewing in Franklin. Dubbed “music to grow your hair out to,” the Murphy musician, Gavin Graves, is well-regarded for his mix of blues and roots music into a unique Southern Appalachian tone. Free and open to the public. 828.634.0078 or curraheebrew.com.

October 11-17, 2023

Bluegrass legend comes to Glenville Americana/bluegrass artist Darren Nicholson will hit the stage at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at Happ’s Place in Glenville. A Grammy-nominee and winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards, Nicholson has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world. A regular for years on the Grand Ole Opry and a founding member of acclaimed bluegrass group Balsam Range, Nicholson now spends his time recording, writing new songs and performing as a solo act. Free and open to the public. happsplace.com or 828.742.5700.

‘Mountain High Music, Craft & Car Show’ The Mountain High Music, Craft & Car Show will take place Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Kicking off at 10 a.m. with the craft/car show, the daylong event will include live music by Korn Bread Kreek (11 a.m.), The V8s (12:30 p.m.) and Americana/folk act A. Lee Edwards Trio (2 p.m.). There will also be artisan demonstrations, clogging, face painting and more. The event is free and open to the public. Presented in conjunction with the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information and a full schedule of events, go to smokymountainarts.com or call 828.524.1598.

Smoky Mountain News

The V8s will play Franklin Oct. 14. File photo

Currahee gets the blues

Bryson City community jam A community jam will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer or anything unplugged is invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen. The jam is facilitated by Larry Barnett of the Sawmill Creek Porch Band. The community jams offer a chance for musicians of all ages and levels of ability to share music they have learned over the years or learn oldtime mountain songs. The music jams are offered to the public each first and third Thursday of the month — spring, summer, fall. This program received support from the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of North Carolina and the National Endowment of the Arts. 828.488.3030.

Franklin welcomes Pam Tillis Country music legend Pam Tillis will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. With 13 Top Ten hits, six number ones and over seven million albums sold, Tillis has made her mark in the Music City. She’s the daughter of country music legend, Mel Tillis — a singer/songwriter whose compositions have been covered in country, R&B, bluegrass and rock, as well as an actor with a long list of film, TV and stage credits. Tickets start at $26 per person, with priority seating available. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to smokymountainarts.com or call 828.524.1598.

Pam Tillis. File photo

On the beat

• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host a semi-regular acoustic jam with the Main Street NoTones from 7-9 p.m. every first and third Thursday of the month. Free and open to the public. For more information, go to blueridgebeerhub.com. • Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host music bingo 7 p.m. Mondays, karaoke at 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, trivia at 7 p.m., Human Nip (rock) Oct. 14 and Imij Of Soul (rock/soul) Oct. 21. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.246.0350 or boojumbrewing.com. • Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host Branded Bluegrass (Americana/bluegrass) 6 p.m. Oct. 21. Tickets are $15 for adults, $7.50 for children. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to coweeschool.org/music.

public. happsplace.com or 828.742.5700. • Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host 3 Doors Down (rock) 7 p.m. Oct. 21. For a full schedule of events and/or to buy tickets, caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee. • Highlander Mountain House (Highlands) will host a Sunday Bluegrass Residency noon to 2:30 p.m. and semi-regular live music on the weekends. Tickets are $35 per person. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to highlandermountainhouse.com. • Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will host “Trivia Night with Kirk” from 7-9 p.m. every Monday, Open Mic Night every Wednesday and semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. innovationbrewing.com.

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• Innovation Station (Dillsboro) will host “Music Bingo” on Wednesdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All events begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. innovation-brewing.com.

• Currahee Brewing (Franklin) will host “Music Bingo” 7 p.m. Thursdays and Woolybooger (blues/folk) Oct. 14. All shows begin at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.634.0078 or curraheebrew.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host “Music Bingo” 6 p.m. Tuesdays, trivia 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Open Mic 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Folkmoot Friendship Center (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. For a full schedule of events and/or to purchase tickets, go to folkmoot.org. • Friday Night Live (Highlands) will host The Foxfire Boys Oct. 13 at Town Square on Main Street. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.

• Frog Quarters (Franklin) will host live music from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. Free and open to the public. Located at 573 East Main Street. littletennessee.org or 828.369.8488. • Happ’s Place (Glenville) will host Darren Nicholson (Americana/bluegrass) Oct. 13 and Joe Owens (singer-songwriter) Oct. 14. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the

• Lineside at Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Red Clay Revival (Americana/indie) and The Borrowed Band 7 p.m. Oct. 14. Admission is $10 in advance, $12 at the door. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to froglevelbrewing.com. • Meadowlark Motel (Maggie Valley) will host Trivia Thursdays 6:30 p.m., Woolybooger (blue/folk) Oct. 13, Ginny McAfee (singersongwriter) Oct. 14, Mountain Gypsy (Americana/folk) Oct. 20 and Pigeon River Messengers (Americana/indie) Oct. 21. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to meadowlarkmotel.com or 828.926.1717. • Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host an “Open Mic w/Frank Lee” Wednesdays, Mountain Gypsy (Americana/folk) Oct. 13, Frank Lee (Americana/old-time) 5 p.m. Oct. 15, Zip Robertson (singer-songwriter) Oct. 20, Jacob’s Well (Americana) Oct. 21 and Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) 5 p.m. Oct. 22. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 or mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

• Salty Dog’s Seafood & Grill (Maggie Valley) will host “Karaoke with Russell” every Monday and semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.926.9105. • Santé Wine Bar (Sylva) will host Liz Nance (singer-songwriter) Oct. 15 and Ethan Johnson (singer-songwriter) Oct. 22. All shows begin at 3 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.631.3075 or facebook.com/thewinebarandcellar. • Saturdays On Pine (Highlands) will host Highlands Heritage Jamboree 3:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 14 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park on Pine Street. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org. • Sauced (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9585 or saucedwnc.com.

• Stecoah Valley Center (Robbinsville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, call 828.479.3364 or go to stecoahvalleycenter.com. • Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host Jay Dee Gee 7 p.m. Oct. 11, Blue Oct. 12, Carolina Freightshakers ($5 cover) Oct. 13, Johnnie Blackwell Band ($5 cover) Oct. 14, Bryson City Chamber Costume Party 7 p.m. Oct. 17, Karaoke w/Lori Oct. 19, Rock Holler ($5 cover) Oct. 20 and Macon County Line ($5 cover) Oct. 21. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.538.2488. • Valley Cigar & Wine Co. (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.944.0686 or valleycigarandwineco.com. • Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.926.7440 or valley-tavern.com.

• The Scotsman (Waynesville) will host a “Celtic Jam” 2-5 p.m. Sundays, Bobby G (blues) Oct. 12, Aaron “Woody” Wood & Friends (blues/rock) Oct. 13, TrancEnd (rock/pop) 9 p.m. Oct. 20 and Savanna Woods (rock/folk) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 21. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 or scotsmanpublic.com.

• Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 9:30 p.m. 828.456.4750 or facebook.com/waternhole.bar.

• SlopeSide Tavern (Sapphire) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.743.8655 or slopesidetavern.com.

• Yonder Community Market (Franklin) will host Amanda Neill & Stevie Tombstone (singer-songwriter) 7 p.m. Oct. 21. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to eatrealfoodinc.com.

• Whiteside Brewing (Cashiers) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.743.6000 or whitesidebrewing.com.

Craft beer, live music at ‘Frogtoberfest’ The second annual “Frogtoberfest” will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville. A daylong event celebrating the fall season, there will be a wide selection of craft beer, live music and food available onsite. The daytime music Red Clay Revival. Garret K. Woodward photo and outdoor activities are free and open to the public. The “Frogtoberfest” after-party featuring renowned Americana/indie act Red Clay Revival and The Borrowed Band will kick off at 7:30 p.m. at The Lineside, the brand new Frog Level Brewing indoor venue next door to the brewery. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets for the after-party are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. For more information and/or to purchase tickets to the after-party, go to froglevelbrewing.com and go to the “Events” tab.

Smoky Mountain News

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host its weekly “Tuesday Jazz Series” at 5:30 p.m., Tricia Ann Trio 5:30 p.m. Oct. 11, The Dirty French Broads 6 p.m. Oct. 13, Fall Fest 1-11 p.m. w/live music all day Oct. 14, Syrrup 3 p.m. Oct. 15, Simple Folk Trio (Americana) 5:30 p.m. Oct. 18, The Mug Band 6 p.m. Oct. 20 and Jackson Grimm & The Bull Moose Party (Americana/indie) 6 p.m. Oct. 21. Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 or froglevelbrewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host trivia 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, an Old Time Jam 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Quirky Birds Treehouse & Bistro (Dillsboro) will host Open Mic Night at 7 p.m. Tuesdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.586.1717 or facebook.com/quirkybirdstreehouse.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host Pam Tillis (country) Oct. 13. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to smokymountainarts.com or 828.524.1598.

October 11-17, 2023

• Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Orchard Sessions” featuring ABC Trio with Tom Herbort Oct. 12. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $25 per person. For tickets, go to oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.

• Nantahala Brewing Outpost (Sylva) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.641.9797 or nantahalabrewing.com.

arts & entertainment

• Balsam Falls Brewing (Sylva) will host an open mic from 8-10 p.m. every Thursday. Free and open to the public. 828.631.1987 or balsamfallsbrewing.com.

arts & entertainment

On the street Cherokee Bonfire & Storytelling

PumpkinFest rolls into Franklin The ‘Pumpkin Roll’ is a beloved PumpkinFest tradition. File photo

The Cherokee Bonfire is a family-friendly gathering. File photo

The Cherokee Bonfire & Storytelling will be held from 7-9 p.m. Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays through Oct. 31 at the Oconaluftee Islands Park in Cherokee. Sit by a bonfire alongside a river and listen to some of Cherokee’s best storytellers. The bonfire is free and open to the public. For more information, call 800.438.1601 or go to visitcherokeenc.com.

Church Street is one of WNC’s largest festivals. File photo

Smoky Mountain News

October 11-17, 2023

The 27th annual PumpkinFest will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, in downtown Franklin. The centerpiece event of PumpkinFest is the “World Famous PumpkinRoll.” Who can roll a pumpkin the greatest distance down Phillips Street and vying for bragging rights? One past winner rolled 1,021 feet. Sign up for the “Pumpkin Roll” is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the actual “roll” from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Pumpkins will be available

for purchase at the event or bring your own. Other highlights include a costume parade and contest, pumpkin pie eating contest, along with dozens of vendors featuring arts and crafts, festival food and more. PumpkinFest is sponsored by the Town of Franklin. For more information on the festivities visit us online at townoffranklinnc.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/pumpkinfestfranklin or call Franklin Town Hall at 828.524.2516.

Fall into Darnell Farms The annual corn maze and pumpkin patch will return through Oct. 31 at Darnell Farms in Bryson City. Visit the farm for some old-fashioned fun. Walk through the corn maze ($12 Darnell Farms is a popular destination in WNC. File photo admission), enjoy a hayride ($18 admission) and visit the There will also be food trucks, farm huge six-acre pumpkin patch, where you and stands, apples and fall decor onsite. For more your family choose your perfect Jack O’ information, go to darnellfarms.com. Lantern. Prices vary by size.

Church Street Art & Craft Show The 40th annual Church Street Art & Craft Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, in downtown Waynesville. Attracting over 20,000 visitors each year, the festival features over 100 artisans and crafters. Vendors include fiber art, photography, glass, leather, jewelry, gourmet food, handcrafted items, garden accessories and much more. There will also be live entertainment, with bluegrass bands and clogging groups performing on both ends of Main Street. As well, there’s an abundance of food vendors and children’s activities. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to downtownwaynesville.com.

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‘Death of a Salesman’ will be at HART throughout October.

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HART presents ‘Death of a Salesman’

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“Death of a Salesman” holds “the mirror up to nature” as we identify — possibly deny — and then accept the internal and external struggles of the characters onstage and how those struggles relate or reflect upon ourselves. This theatrical experience transcends the boundaries of the stage, immersing spectators in a deeply relatable narrative. To make ticket reservations, call the HART Box Office at 828.456.6322 or go to harttheatre.org to make reservations online. HART Box Office hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

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October 11-17, 2023

A special presentation of the iconic play “Death of a Salesman” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 13-14, 20-21, 26-28 and 2 p.m. Oct. 15, 22 and 29 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville. Since its premier in 1949, Arthur Miller’s epic drama about the American Dream has been relevant to our history and truly our own interpretation of life and our ideas about success and failure. The Loman family presents a darker truth of both human nature and the societal limitations we find ourselves stuck in.

Meet & Greet @ Frog Level Brewery on Wednesdays 11:30-1:30 Uncommon Market, River Arts District on Oct 29

• Comedian Eddie Griffin will perform at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. For a full schedule of events and/or to buy tickets, caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee.

• “Flights & Bites” will be held starting at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville. For more information on upcoming events, wine tastings and special dinners, go to waynesvillewine.com. • “Take A Flight” with four new wines every Friday and Saturdays at the Bryson City Wine Market. Select from a gourmet selection of charcuterie to enjoy with your wines. Educational classes and other events are also available. For more information, call 828.538.0420.

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Smoky Mountain News

On the table

• “Uncorked: Wine & Rail Pairing Experience” will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 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. There will also be a special “Beer Train” on select dates. For more information and/or to register, call 800.872.4681 or go to gsmr.com. 25

Smoky Mountain News

October 11-17, 2023

arts & entertainment

On the wall

Leaf Lookers Gemboree The annual Leaf Lookers Gemboree will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 20-21 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Macon County Community Building just south of Franklin along U.S. 441. Gem and mineral dealers from across the country will be on hand displaying and selling their products against the backdrop of spectacular fall color. The Gemboree will feature a wide variety of items including fine finished jewelry, rough and cut gems, lapidary equipment, minerals, fossils and collectibles. Dealers will also be available to make custom pieces. Admission is $2 and those under 12 will be admitted free. For more information, contact the Franklin Chamber of Commerce at 828.524.3161 or go to franklin-chamber.com.

• “Art After Dark” will take place from 6-9 p.m. each first Friday of the month (MayDecember) in downtown Waynesville. Main Street transforms into an evening of art, live music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for residents and visitors alike. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to downtownwaynesville.com. • “Spark of the Eagle Dancer: The Collecting Legacy of Lambert Wilson” will be showcased through Dec. 8 in the Fine Art Museum at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. The exhibit features over 140 works of contemporary Native American art from the collection of one of Western North Carolina’s most notable art enthusiasts, the late Lambert Wilson. To learn more about the exhibition, please go to arts.wcu.edu/spark. The Fine Art Museum is

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open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. • “What’s New?” exhibit will showcase new works by members of the Haywood County Arts Council through Nov. 13 at the HCAC in Waynesville. The presentation will focus on new techniques, materials and themes from local and regional artisans. Free and open to the public. haywoodarts.org. • Gallery Zella (Bryson City) will be hosting an array of artist receptions, exhibits and showcases. The gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For more information, go to galleryzella.com or call 517.881.0959. • Waynesville Photography Club meets at 7 p.m. every third Monday each month on the second floor of the Haywood Regional Health & Fitness Center in Clyde. The club is a nonprofit organization that exists for

Gem lovers unite at ‘Leaf Lookers.’ File photo

the enjoyment of photography and the improvement of one’s skills. They welcome photographers of all skill levels to share ideas and images at the monthly meetings. For more information, email waynesvillephotoclub@charter.net or follow them on Facebook: Waynesville Photography Club. • 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 live music. Leashed pets are welcome. Outdoor event. 828.488.7857. • Haywood County Arts Council (Waynesville) will offer a wide range of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. The HCAC gallery is open seven days a

week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. For more information and a full schedule, go to haywoodarts.org. • Jackson County Green Energy Park (Dillsboro) will be offering a slew of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. For more information and a full schedule, go to jcgep.org. • Southwestern Community College Swain Arts Center (Bryson City) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. For more information on the upcoming classes and/or to sign-up, go to southwesterncc.edu/scc-locations/swaincenter. • Dogwood Crafters in Dillsboro will offer a selection of upcoming art classes and workshops. For more information and a full schedule of activities, go to dogwoodcrafters.com/classes.html or call 828.586.2248.

On the shelf

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Canned Heat are a good example of the kind of music activism Leonard writes about: “All across the nation such a strange vibration/People in motion/There’s a whole generation with a new explanation/People in motion, people in motion.” In Leonard’s introduction to this book, he writes: “The aim [of this book] is to show, through select examples, how the radical music of the Sixties was birthed amid unprecedented upheaval and systemic repression. It is the story of the artists, called to operate ‘far beyond their rightful time,’ who had to contend amid these extraordinary circumstances, producing works of wonder in the process, including Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s song ‘Ohio,’ that is perhaps the most powerful topical song ever recorded — related to the killing of four students at Kent State University by the National Guard.” There’s also the story of the barring of Bob Dylan’s song satirizing the John Birch Society from broadcast on the Ed Sullivan

television show, about which Dylan himself commented: “No one can say anything honest in the United States. Every place you look is cluttered with phonies and lies.” Dylan’s album “Freewheelin’” from this period is full of classic protest songs such as “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “Masters of War,” and “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall.” Later, in 1974, Arlo Guthrie would release his own Dylanesque song “Presidential Rag” with the lyrics: ”You said that you were lied to/Well that ain’t hard to see/But you must have been fooled again by your friends across the sea/And maybe you were fooled again by your people here at home/Because nobody could talk like you/And know what’s going on.” While all the great music of the 60s and 70s was going on, Leonard spends a lot of his book talking about the suppression of this music and various musical activities and events. He has pulled up available classified FBI files and other documents that are proof of how various organizations in the government were monitoring and working to suppress and ban this music and these artists as much as they possibly could. As Leonard writes in his conclusion to the book: “Everything from the Black freedom movement to the anti-war movement, the rising of a radical New Left, to the rebellion against the dominant culture, such was the backdrop on which this unprecedented music was able to assert itself — impossible things were then possible. While we cannot see into our future, one no less fraught than that of sixty years ago, it is, for better or worse, wide open. Who can say what wonders, musical and otherwise, await?” Or as Marvin Gaye prophetically sings in his hit song from 1971 “What’s Goin’ On:” Mother, mother There’s too many of you crying Brother, brother, brother There’s far too many of you dying You know we’ve got to find a way To bring some lovin’ here today (Thomas Crowe is a regular contributor to The Smoky Mountain News and author of the 1970s non-fiction memoir “Starting From San Francisco: The Baby Beat Generation and the 2nd San Francisco Renaissance.”)

October 11-17, 2023

’ve been thinking lately about my youth during the 1960s and 70s and the influence that those years had on my thinking and my life. As luck would have it, I’ve recently come across the writing of Aaron J. Leonard, author, music critic and political writer. In this case, the two books: “The Folk Singers and the Bureau” (Repeater Books, 2020) and Writer “Whole World in an Uproar” (Repeater Books, 2023) got my attention, as these two books deal with just that period and the music which spoke to the social-political climate of these years. In “The Folk Singers,” Leonard addresses the idea of how the FBI and other governmental agencies attempted to influence and suppress these musicians and their socialpolitical activism. This book takes the reader back as early as 1939 and music artists such as Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Lee Hays, Leadbelly, Josh White, Paul Robeson and Sis Cunningham. Here, Leonard reveals the musical mindset of a time (1939-1956) covering a period when I was just in grade school, by talking about the threat of communism and the HUAC (House Committee on Unamerican Activities) hearings including not only folk musicians like Peter Seeger, but Hollywood moguls and actors such as Jack Warner, Louis B. Mayer, Gary Cooper, Ronald Reagan and Robert Taylor during the McCarthy Era. Focusing on the folksingers and the songs themselves, we have LP recordings such as The Weavers “Wasn’t That a Time,” Alan Lomax’s “Prison Songs,” Pete Seeger’s “Songs of Protest and Struggle” — with songs such as “This Land Is Your Land” and “We Shall Overcome.” While this whole period in the 20th century and the artists highlighted are important to ponder and acknowledge, it is the following decades that I want to focus on and Leonard’s 2022 follow-up book “Whole World in an Uproar (Music, Rebellion and Repression, 1955-1972)” where he updates the political artist perspective with lots of details and quotes that look at the more pop/rock groups and their attitudes and activism related to the American counterculture and the politics of that era. I am much more familiar with this period, which takes me right back to my high school and college years and the whole Hip Movement — of which I was a more than willing participant — to the years that included the

Vietnam War, the Black Freedom Movement, and a vibrant counterculture whose sacred anthems were the lyrics of the songs by such artists as Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Jim Morrison, Gordon Lightfoot, Grace Slick, Arlo Guthrie, Phil Ochs, Buffy Sainte-Marie and such groups as Jefferson Airplane, Country Joe and the Fish, The Grateful Dead and Buffalo Springfield. The lyrics of the song “Goin’ Up the Country” by

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From Guthrie to Woodstock: politics and pop music

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

Keeping watch

Mt. Cammerer fire tower restoration marks Friends of the Smokies’ 30th birthday BY HOLLY KAYS OUTDOORS E DITOR ary Wade grew up in Pittman Center, Tennessee, just 7 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park trailhead leading to Mt. Cammerer. But despite being a lifelong hiker, he didn’t reach the storied fire tower at the summit until 1993, when he was in his mid 40s. Wade made the hike for the first time with his friend Tom Trotter, an architect and Gatlinburg resident, as part of their years-long effort to hike as many trails as possible of the national park in whose shadow they’d grown up. They’d completed about half the trails on the Tennessee side before attempting Mt. Cammerer, one of the toughest hikes in the Smokies. When, after walking a 5.6-mile route that climbs about 3,000 feet, they finally reached the top, Wade was faced with two stark realities: the grandeur of the view and the dilapidation of the tower. “I was just shocked by how lowly the fire tower was, as was Tom,” Wade said. “And I was amazed by the views that we had from the fire tower. It was just special.” The next day, Trotter secured a meeting with Randy Pope, park superintendent at the time. It was time to restore the fire tower, he said. Pope agreed — in theory. “The superintendent said, ‘You’re right, we’d love to restore that, and many of the other things,’” Wade recalled. “And he said, ‘There’s no money.’” Trotter responded by enlisting Wade’s help to raise that

yellow barely beginning to peek through. That changes as we walk, the trail climbing roughly 2,000 feet in elevation in the 2.9 miles before its junction with the Appalachian Trail. As the sun rises higher it becomes obvious the day will be on the warm side. Sweat pours from me faster than I can offset it with sips from my Nalgene. “This is the easy part,” says one of my hiking companions, retired Smokies Chief Ranger Steven Kloster. Luckily, he’s joking. At the intersection with the Appalachian Trail, we find a few rocks to sit on, sip some water, and enjoy a mid-morning snack. The sun is brighter here on the ridge, the yellows and reds of early fall more apparent. Walking on, the trail continues to climb as it follows the ridgeline, but this time it’s mostly a gentle rise. Earlybrowning leaves crackle under my feet as I venture through the dry upland forest. A smattering of fall mushrooms pops from logs and tree trunks. Sweeping mountain views and a nearly cloudless sky peek through places where the trees are thin. But much grander views await just a little further on, up at Mt. Cammerer, 5.5 miles from our starting point at the campground. The buzz of a saw greets me as I pick my way through the finally craggy stretch of trail separating me from the summit. It’s an unusual sound in the national park, most of which is managed under Wilderness Act rules that prohibit use of mechanized equipment, including power tools. But in certain circumstances, exceptions can be made — and the rehabilitation of Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower is one such circumstance.

••• The octagonal tower has occupied the rocky mountaintop 100 feet from the North Carolina line since 1939, when the Forever Places crew member John Smith removes rotten rafter Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps finished building it. tail sections from the Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower. Holly Kays photo “The National Park Service was fortunate in being able to hire the cream-of-the-crop in almost any segment of the building and landscaping fields,” reads a 1992 report nominating the fire tower for listing on the National Register of Historic money, $35,000 in total. With support from the Rotary Club Places. “It was within this broad context that many NPS faciliof West Knoxville and other donors, the funds materialized. ties, and those in many state parks, were designed and conBut the park had many other needs as well, so on Sept. 3, structed by the CCC. The Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower was one of 1993, an organizational meeting hosted by Pope and Bob those projects.” Miller marked the birth of Friends of the Great Smoky The tower is one of the four fire towers of the park’s origiMountains National Park. Wade was elected president, a title nal 10 that remain standing, the others that later changed to chairman. In the being Mount Sterling, Shuckstack 30 years since that day, Friends of the Mountain and Cove Mountain. Such Smokies has raised $87 million to fund towers were usually built square, their park projects that wouldn’t be possible sides aligned with the four points of the using federal dollars alone. compass. This year, Friends of the Smokies is But the summit of Mt. Cammerer not only celebrating a milestone birthwas so rocky, so rugged, that the typical day — it’s also celebrating Mt. square build would have been nearly Cammerer, the inspiration that impossible, so it was built with eight launched its existence, with another sides instead. It’s short, too, compared round of much-needed restoration to the others, a two-story building with kicking off a new program aimed at stone walls. The bottom floor was used honoring the Smokies’ historic places. for storage, while the top floor, with its Just as Mt. Cammerer became the symcircle of glass windows and surroundbol around which park supporters ral— Emily Davis, Park Spokesperson ing catwalk, was the living quarters and lied at the Friends’ creation, now it’s observation post for the park rangers the rallying point for the Forever who lived there, keeping their eyes peeled for signs of fire, Places program, an endowment that seeks to ensure that until the tower was decommissioned in the 1960s. Smokies landmarks like Mt. Cammerer get the attention they “This structure tells so many stories, from the early park so desperately need. development to the CCC story, and then what it was like to be a working ranger,” said Friends of the Smokies President and ••• CEO Dana Soehn, gesturing toward the tower from her seat on At 8 a.m., the newly risen sun still hangs low on the other the rocks below. “And you can tie that then into the change of side of the mountain as I make my way through Cosby the landscape and fire on the landscape. This was in the 1960s, Campground to meet Low Gap Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The final days of September still feel and that was one of their primary responsibilities here, was to suppress fires. It was staffed all the time so they like late summer down here, the path nearly free of fallen would have that early detection.” leaves as the trees above remain mostly green, subtle hints of

Prior to the recent restoration work, the fire tower was a mess of broken windows with a kicked-down door. Helen McNutt photo

manent crew of skilled trail builders. The program completed its first trail rehabilitation in 2010 with the restoration of the Forney Ridge Trail. Since then, Trails Forever has funded extensive work on the Chimney Tops, Alum Cave, Rainbow Falls, Trillium Gap and Abram Falls trails, with restoration work ongoing at Ramsey Cascades Trail. “The ability for the Friends group to provide the funds to hire permanent crew members has been a game changer,” Soehn said, “and we’ve seen how well it works in the Trails Forever program. So this Forever Places has the same model and will enable the park to start to really address now-longstanding needs at historic structures and other special park places.” ••• It’s no easy task to carry out meticulous restoration work on a rocky mountaintop, miles away from any road. When we reach the summit Sept. 28, we find the crew focused and all too aware of how long their to-do list remains as the next day’s departure grows closer. The three-member crew arrived for their mission on Monday, Sept. 26, riding horses up alongside a string of mules wrangled by the Smokies’ animal packer Danny Gibson. With motor transport impossible, the task

of hauling hundreds of pounds of glass, wood, power tools and supplies fell to these hardy animals — each of which is capable of walking miles with 250 pounds on its back. Getting all the materials and people up to the top required two trips, with two of the three crew members arriving at noon and one at 5 p.m. Since then, they’ve been full steam ahead, working 12-hour days to get as much done as possible ahead of their scheduled departure Sept. 29. But they’re not immune to the beauty around them. “To be able to look at this at work is too cool,” says stone mason John Smith, gesturing to the panorama visible from the catwalk. “It’s worth not having a shower, to be here.” The octagonal room where the remaining crew members are hard at work is also their bedroom. Cots topped with sleeping bags are shoved to the walls, and the windowsills are used as storage for everything from bug spray to playing cards. Outside, large, green canteens hold the crew’s water for the week — there are no creeks or springs nearby — and a giant solar panel faces south, gathering enough energy to keep batteries charged for power tools, radios and cell phones.

S EE FIRE TOWER, PAGE 30

In a photo dated June 1940, a ranger takes in the view from Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower. Tennessee State Library Archives photo (Tennessee Department of Conservation photo collection)

October 11-17, 2023 Smoky Mountain News

••• That’s what Friends of the Smokies hopes to see happen, too, which is why it established its Forever Places endowment in 2020. The nonprofit aims to raise $9 million to fund a permanent crew of skilled craftsmen to carry out these restoration projects in perpetuity. Forever Places is now in its second year of projects after kicking things off in 2022 by funding restoration of the Walker Sisters Cabin, five structures in the Elkmont area of Daisy Town and the Ephraim Bales Cabin and Barn, along with planning and design for a full structural rehabilitation of Little Cataloochee Church — $409,000 in total. This year, Forever Places has budgeted $406,000 for a new slate of projects that includes the Mt. Cammerer project. Also on the 2023 project list are the Tipton Oliver Cabin and Barn, John Ownby Cabin and David Chapman Cabin, along with further funding for the Walker Sisters Cabin. “Structures provide that window into the past in an experiential way,” Soehn said. “When people come up to a place like this without the structure, it’s hard to imagine what it would have been to be a fire watchman. With the structure itself, you’re walking inside of it, and it really provides you that opportunity to step back in time.”

But, as was the case in 1993 when Tom Trotter made his request to Superintendent Pope, there’s no money in the park budget to restore these structures. To solve that problem, Friends of the Smokies built on a model that’s already proven successful — a model formed with Trails Forever, another Friends of the Smokies endowment fund that ensures the park can carry out critical maintenance work in beloved areas. Just as Forever Places funds a permanent crew of skilled craftsmen, Trails Forever funds a per-

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The 360-view from the tower was functional, then, but it is also beautiful. The most expansive vista lies north and west, where the Pigeon River runs along a ribbon of Interstate 40 on its way to Newport, set amid the smattering of small East Tennessee communities laying at the feet of the mountain waves. “This is one of my favorite places in the park,” Soehn said. By the time Wade and Trotter reached the summit back in the 1990s, three decades had passed since the tower was in active use, and it had fallen into a state of disrepair. A photo from that time shows boarded-up windows and peeling paint. Wade remembers graffiti too. Restoration work began in 1995 and finished a few years later, but nearly three decades on, the tower was once again looking rough. The door was kicked in, the glass in the windows cloudy, broken or missing, a fresh coat of graffiti covering the walls. So, in an homage to its roots, Friends of the Smokies gave the park more than $50,000 to complete a new round of restoration. “For visitors to see the work that goes into this, and knowing that we have a partner like the Friends to help us accomplish that, that tells a complete story of why this park exists and why we should continue to protect it,” said Park Spokesperson Emily Davis as she finished her lunch on the mountaintop. “I look forward to seeing what other projects we can work on together.”

Give back To learn more about Forever Places, or to make a donation to the endowment, visit friendsofthesmokies.org/forever-places. 29

FIRE TOWER, CONTINUED FROM 29

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The job’s not done, but already the fire tower is pristine compared to what it was a few days ago. Now, the door hangs upright as Smith gives it a fresh coat of white paint. New glass makes the windows clean and clear. Wooden spindles have been installed in the catwalk around the tower’s perimeter, and the stairs leading to it have been replaced. Rotted sections of the rafter tails have been removed. Crew members Aron Williams and David Sharp work to lift up every buckled floorboard, sweeping out the dirt underneath and reattaching it flush with the floor. “It’s kind of half safety, half preservation of the structure,” Williams said.

Earth.” Some of it, like the “H+S” inscription, can be covered up with the same brown paint into which the message is etched. Others, like “Spooky Dookie,” will be difficult to address — the fire tower is on the National Register of Historic Places, meaning crews can’t just paint over an area that wasn’t previously painted without undergoing a bureaucratic process to secure permission. “Maybe we can do something with it, take the wood off and flip it over maybe or something if the other side is still good,” Williams said, examining graffiti on the windowsills. “But that could have already been done. We don’t know.” If things go wrong, the attempt could “open up a can of worms,” creating more problems than there were to start with.

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October 11-17, 2023

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Forever Places crew members Aron Williams (left) and David Sharp work to level the floor. Holly Kays photo The crew prioritized its efforts to address safety issues like faulty steps and railings, and tasks that prevent degradation of the structure, like replacing blown-out windows. They finished their to-do list that September trip but will need to return at some point to finish up some cosmetic details. An open question is what to do about the graffiti. It’s all over the structure — the door,

Williams hopes that future visitors will take note of the work that’s been done and fight the urge to carve the name of their current romantic interest into this 84-year-old structure. “I hope it will provide a sense of pride for the visitors that come in, and they’ll stop graffitiing and destroying,” he said. “They’ll see the effort that we’re putting in, and the money that the Friends and the park’s putting in to keep these places alive for the future … So maybe they come and see, ‘Hey, they’re taking pride in the place. Maybe we should too.’”

••• Wade remembers how, back in 1993, when the fledgling Friends group took on the restoration of the Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower, he would reflect on that tower’s history — on the park rangers who once Animal packer Danny Gibson works with the mule team lived there, watching over the crew relied on to haul supplies. NPS photo the park and protecting it from wildfire, and on how the walls, the roof — and ranges from run-of- that was such a fitting symbol for what the new Friends group hoped to do. the-mill inscriptions like “H+S” to The metaphor still holds. inscrutable silliness (or possibly an A.T. trail “We like to believe that we are watching name) like “Spooky Dookie” scrawled in large over our park,” he said, “just like the park letters near the apex of the ceiling, to unintentional irony such as a message on the exte- ranger watched over the park from the fire tower.” rior wall reading, “Tread Lightly Upon the

Fish the Smokies

A gathering of women who love the outdoors will take place Saturday, Nov. 4, at Vogel State Park in Georgia. The Women’s Trail Summit, organized by the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, aims to support, engage and inspire adventures on the trail, promoting personal safety and awareness while encouraging women to become active participants who are comfortable in the natural environment. Participants will leave equipped with new skills and awareness, as well as a network of supportive women. Breakfast and registration begin at 8 a.m. and programming at 8:45 a.m. Registration required at womenstrailsummit.com.

A free youth fishing clinic will coincide with an Old Time Music Jam 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee. Throughout the day, a fishing clinic offered in collaboration with the International Game Fish Association will give youth a chance to try their hand at casting a line for local trout and earn their Junior Ranger Angler badge, all while learning about fish conservation and ethical angling practices at fun, interactive stations. All fishing equipment will be provided. The first 25 families will receive a free fishing pole to keep. A valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required for particiants 16 or older. The last music jam of the season will cap off the afternoon 1-3 p.m., on the porch of the visitor center. The musically inclined are welcome to join in with local musicians playing old-time songs on traditional Appalachian instruments like the mountain dulcimer.

Red wolf recovery plan complete

In some ways, the new plan is an improvement, said Ron Sutherland, chief scientist for the Wildlands Network. “The new plan represents a strong affirmation that the USFWS has regained its resolve to work on recovering red wolves,” he said. “I particularly like the emphasis on needing to reduce gunshot and vehicle strike mortality rates for the wolves by 50%.”

Middle school students are invited to try some hiking and fly fishing, with events planned Oct. 10, 19 and 24. A partnership between Haywood County

Recreation and Parks and First United Methodist Church Waynesville is providing regular outdoor recreation opportunities for middle schoolers. This month, hikes are offered Tuesdays, Oct. 10 and Oct. 14, and fly fishing Thursday, Oct. 19. For more information, contact FUMC at 828.456.9475, ext. 302.

Learn the art of Southern Appalachian fly tying with an eight-week course taught by local expert Tommy Thomas. Class will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays Oct. 18 - Dec. 13 at the Folkmoot Center in Waynesville. Offered through Haywood County Recreation, the course costs $30 for instruction, supplies and equipment. Sign up at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation.

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Wild times planned for middle schoolers

Tie your own flies

October 11-17, 2023

A final recovery plan for the red wolf, a document from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that will guide recovery efforts for an imperiled native species, is now complete. “The final revised plan underscores the service’s commitment to working with others to conserve the red wolf while also maintaining a rural way of life by working farms and ranches,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams. “Successful recovery requires collaboration with all who are involved and interested in red wolf recovery, including continued transparent engagement with Red wolves have been listed as endangered since 1973. USFWS photo the community to facilitate a coexistence between people The plan’s recovery target of 740 wild red and red wolves.” wolves is also a “significant improvement” over The only distinct canid species native to the the 220 wolves the 1990 plan required before U.S., the red wolf once ranged from southern New York to central Texas, its range including the delisting could occur — though Sutherland believes that population viability research would entire Southeast. But it had been driven to near indicate a proper recovery goal closer to 2,000. extinction by the 1970s and was listed as However, he said, the plan is not perfect. endangered in 1973. The first reintroductions Sutherland disagrees “wholeheartedly” with a occurred at Alligator River National Wildlife statement in the plan that wild red wolves could be Refuge in eastern North Carolina in 1987, estabclassified as “nonessential” because the species is lishing the eastern North Carolina Red Wolf protected under the captive breeding program. Population. A failed reintroduction effort in the Zoos are a temporary solution, he said, and relying Smokies began in 1991. on them for too long will cause the animal to The plan is a non-regulatory document that evolve in response to captivity conditions. aims to chart a path forward for the species to He also pointed out that, while the plan return to its historic range so that, eventually, it talks about reducing the number of wolves will no longer require Endangered Species Act struck by cars, it doesn’t mention the possibility protections. of installing wildlife road crossing structures. Currently, there are an estimated 23-25 wild “When we asked wildlife experts across red wolves in eastern North Carolina, with an North Carolina to name the top priorities for additional 269 animals living in captivity. The wildlife road crossings, U.S. 64 through Alligator reintroduction effort has been fraught with tenRiver National Wildlife Refuge was one of the sion between local residents, the FWS, conservatop two sites they picked — the other was I-40 tion groups and the N.C. Wildlife Resources through the Pigeon River Gorge,” he said. Commission, prompting multiple court battles To read the plan, visit over how best to balance conservation of this fws.gov/media/revised-recovery-plan-red-wolf. critically endangered species with the wishes of — Holly Kays, Outdoors Editor the local community.

A family takes it all in during a previous fishing clinic. NPS photo outdoors

Meet the women of the trail

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Drought arrives in the mountains Drought has re-entered the western region, with the most recent drought conditions map labeling Transylvania and Henderson counties as experiencing moderate drought. Meanwhile, 53 North Carolina counties are labeled abnormally dry, including Haywood, Jackson, Swain, Macon, Graham, Clay, Cherokee and Buncombe counties. Little to no rain fell over the state in the week preceding Oct. 3, the date for which data collection ended for the map released Oct. 5. In some western counties, it has been almost two months since the last significant rain event. Overall, this fall is playing out similarly to 2022, but the western region has been particularly dry. In Asheville, for example, September brought only five days with measurable rainfall, and only one with at least half an inch of rain. The 1.66 inches it totaled this month came in 2.1 inches below average, making for Asheville’s 17th-driest September in the past 72 years. The short-term forecast remains dry.

Be prepared outdoors Learn how to stay safe in the woods with a course 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at Standing Rock Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Search and rescue trainer Steve Kuni

will teach what hikers should always have in their pack and what to do to keep yourself safe and alive when you find yourself out in the woods after dark. The course will include a hands-on outdoor portion. Register at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation.

Winter Lights tickets now on sale

Smoky Mountain News

October 11-17, 2023

Tickets are now on sale for Winter Lights, an open-air walk-through light show of more than 1 million lights running Nov. 17-Dec. 31 at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. This year’s event will feature familiar favorites like the 50-foot lighted tree and quilt garden, along with enchanting new details designed to delight and surprise. Ticket prices range from $35 to $65 per car depending on the date and entry time, with members receiving a discount. Flex tickets are $80. Free tickets are available for volunteers who complete at least three shifts. Winter Lights is the arboretum’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting many parts of its missiondriven programming. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit ncarboretum.org/winter-lights.

The most recent drought map, released Oct. 5, relies on data collected through Oct. 3. N.C. Drought Management Advisory Council map

Hear the latest on waterway conservation Learn about the work being done to conserve Haywood County’s pristine waterways 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at the Maggie Valley Town Hall Pavilion, as part of Trout

Unlimited Cataloochee’s regular monthly meeting. Preston Jacobsen and Mackenzie Tenan of Haywood Waterways Association will speak about collaboration opportunities for conservation projects. A raffle giving away a guided fly fishing trip for two will be offered, with water and soft drinks available.

Max Patch work day sets record In the largest Carolina Mountain Club outing ever, 95 people converged on Max Patch to celebrate National Public Lands Day with a blitz of trail work Saturday, Sept. 23. The group put in 813 hours of volunteer labor for the U.S. Forest Service, valued at $25,853. Event sponsors included BearWaters Brewing, which provided an afterparty space and free first drink, and Fjällräven, Sawyer and The Landmark Project, which all provided giveaways at the event. This annual event will be held again on the next National Public Lands Day, Saturday, Sept. 22, 2024.

Wander among the hemlocks

Hikers gather under hemlock trees at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. HRI photo

Hike Buck Springs Celebrate the Year of the Trail with an easy 5-mile hike on the Buck Springs Trail near the Pisgah Inn Saturday, Oct. 14. Guides Vickey and Phyllis will lead this out-and-back walk with an elevation gain of just 469 feet. If you miss this special Year of the Trail hike, consider joining the more challenging excursion planned for Saturday, Oct. 28 — an 8.6-mile trek on the Shining Creek Trail with an elevation gain of 2,756 feet. Hikes are organized by Haywood County Recreation and Parks. Registration is $10. Sign up at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation.

Help restore the trail to the beloved Craggy Pinnacle overlook during a workday Saturday, Oct. 14. The group will meet at the parking lot of the Folk Art Center off the Blue Ridge Parkway at 8:15 a.m. to carpool, returning to the Folk Art Center by 3 p.m. Those unable to carpool can arrive at the limited parking at the overlook at 8:45 a.m. Volunteers will spend the day rehabilitat-

Peek from the Pinnacle

during the 7-mile roundtrip, with a total estimated hiking time of 4.5-6 hours. The outing is open to hikers ages 10 and up, but a parent must accompany those under 18. Cost is $7. Register at jcprd.recdesk.com/community/program. Contact trevorbrown@jacksonnc.org with questions.

Spend Great Trails State Day at Panthertown Celebrate the inaugural Great Trails State Day in North Carolina by giving Panthertown some love Saturday, Oct. 21. The group will meet at the Salt Rock Gap Trailhead near Cashiers for a volunteer work day running 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No previous trail work experience is necessary. Work days typically include about 5 miles of hiking on moderate trails while doing trail corridor clearing, pruning and some tread and drain work. This work day will be a celebration of North Carolina’s 2023 Year of the Trail and all the hard work and programs that have happened across the state in recognition of it. Learn more or sign up at panthertown.org/volunteer.

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Hike Pinnacle Park in Sylva during an excursion starting 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, offered through the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department. This difficult hike gains 1,800 feet

ing this heavily used trail and making new friends, with experienced Carolina Mountain Club trail crews on site to supervise and train inexperienced trail maintainers. CMC membership is not required to attend. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Wear sturdy boots and long pants, and bring work gloves, lunch and water. Tools and hard hats will be provided. Register at carolinamtnclub.org/eventform.cfm. Contact Les Love with questions at lesrlove55@gmail.com.

October 11-17, 2023

Rehab Craggy Pinnacle

A new invasive species has been found in North Carolina. On Oct. 2, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission announced that the aquatic apple snail had been identified along the Lumber River in Lumberton, the first known population of the South American species in the state. The snail’s grazing habits can damage plants native species rely on, and they have been observed feeding on amphibian eggs. The snails can also present health risks to humans, as they may carry rat lungworm, a potentially fatal disease spread if the snails are eaten raw or undercooked. The snail’s egg masses contain a toxin that can cause skin and eye rashes. Apple snails have large, bright pink egg clusters, which they lay on solid surfaces above the waterline, such as tree trunks, vegetation and concrete. The young snails drop into the water after hatching and reach 2 to 6 inches in size, much larger than native aquatic snails. Females can lay eggs as often as once a week, allowing populations to grow and spread rapidly Apple snails reach a large size and lay once established. bright pink egg masses. NCWRC photo To prevent the spread of species like the apple snail, clean equipment of aquatic plants, animals and mud; drain water from boats, live wells, bait buckets and other equipment; dry all equipment thoroughly; and never move fish, plants or other organisms from one body of water to another. To report suspected apple snail sightings, visit bit.ly/invasivereport.

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Check in on the hemlock trees of the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville with an easy, 2.5-mile hike Saturday, Oct. 21. Led by the Hemlock Restoration Initiative, the hike will showcase hemlocks treated by the initiative’s staff around Bent Creek Road and the Carolina Mountain Trail. Leaders will discuss the importance of native hemlocks and the threat they face from the invasive hemlock wooly adelgid, as well as treatment methods and precautions to be used near streams. Sign up at savehemlocksnc.org/arboretum-hike-oct-2023.

Invasive apple snails found in N.C.

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BY B URT KORNEGAY

Yellow Jacket Muse P.S. (This piece is a follow-up to a previous “Up Moses Creek” column published Sept. 13 and available online at smokymountainnews.com/outdoors/item/3635 6-yellow-jacket-muse.)

ne afternoon last month I went to look for wide, flat rocks in the woods above our house. I wanted to use them as stepping stones for a walkway in the yard. Becky joined me, and, although flat rocks can be hard to find, by luck the first three we turned up were nature’s perfect pavers. It was like walking into a freshly plowed field and finding three fine arrowheads right off. Becky was in front scouting when I heard her say, “This one looks good,” and she tapped her foot on a gray surface showing through the fallen leaves. I pushed my crowbar under an edge, pried it up, grabbed with A yellow jacket on a yellow flower may look mellow. both hands and, with a But as they say up Moses Creek: “black and yellow grunt, pulled the rock sting a fellow.” Fred Coyle photo. straight up. “It’s perfect!” I said, patBecky had run in the opposite direction, ting the underside. Then I saw I’d ripped and by the time I’d killed the stingers on off the top of a yellow jacket nest below. It me, including the hitchhikers on my was as if I’d pulled the roof off a house and clothes, I didn’t know where she was. And inside hundreds of angry yellow faces were when I called, all I heard besides my own glaring up at me. loud breathing was silence. It didn’t help We keep an eye out for yellow jackets, that my hearing isn’t what it used to be and especially in late summer and early fall. that I’d ripped off my hearing aids during That’s when their nests are largest, their the fight. numbers are at a peak, and they are most Worried now, and imagining that Becky protective of the colony, queen and larvae. might have had a bad allergic reaction, or But, excited by our three lucky finds in a in turning to run had twisted her ankle and row, we hadn’t taken time to check for fallen near the nest, I quick doubled back, fliers coming and going from that rock. going straight up a steep slope. I got just “Run!” I yelled, letting the rock drop, close enough to see she wasn’t near the nest and took off through the woods, swatting when the stingers jumped me again — the left and right. Yellow jackets have stung me first one setting my left eyelid on fire. aplenty over the years — wasps and horI was so relieved when I finally heard nets too — but I’d never been swarmed like Becky answer my calls. She was coming up that. the driveway towards the house. She’d been When I told a friend about it later, he wrote: “I almost feel myself furiously trying stung at least four times, she told me. She also said that while making her getaway, to get the goddamned things off even while she’d been thinking, of all things, about the I'm gripped in frustration at not being able article on yellow jackets I’d written for last to anticipate where I most need to thrash and swat and scrape first, and knowing that month’s Smoky Mountain News. She was trying to remember if it said how far you wherever I guess, the guess is going to be had to go to be safe after riling up a nest. wrong, and knowing that however long I But the article didn’t cover that. keep at it there will remain others of the We laughed that she must have made it damnable things somewhere on or near me almost to Cullowhee, 6 miles, before roundstill hunting for more places to sting.” ing back! But one thing I did not have to guess at (Burt and Becky Kornegay live in Jackson while I ran and swatted — the fiery flashes County.) I felt on my neck and arms, and going on

Smoky Mountain News

October 11-17, 2023

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

down my legs, lighting up my left bum en route. I’ve noticed that yellow jackets sting in two ways. There’s the classic single plunge, the stinger probing deep, but there’s also the raking burst, where the insect moves along while its stinger whizzes up and down as fast as a sewing machine needle. Unlike honeybees, which sting once and die, yellow jackets live to sting and sting again. Half of those on me were deep thrusters; the rest were sewing away.

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS • The Jackson Arts Market takes place from 1-5 p.m. every Saturday at 533 West Main St. in Sylva with live music and an array of local artists. • Cowee School Farmer’s Market is held Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m. at 51 Cowee School Drive in Franklin. The market has produce, plant starts, eggs, baked goods, flowers, food trucks and music. For more information or for an application, visit www.coweeschool.org or call 828.369.4080.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS • Mountain Area Pregnancy Services and the WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor work together to provide a casual support group for prenatal and breastfeeding individuals from 1-2 p.m. on Tuesdays at Mountain Area Pregnancy Services, 177 N Main St. Waynesville. All are welcome, registration is recommended. For more information, please call 828.558.4550.

CLUBS AND MEETINGS • The Western Carolina Cribbage Club meets every Monday at 6 p.m. An eclectic group of young and old, male and female. The group supplies boards, cards, pegs and is always willing to help those still learning the finer points of the game. Contact kei3ph@bellsouth.net for more information. • Chess 101 takes place 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Friday at the Canton Branch of the Haywood County Library. For more information, email Ashlyn Godleski at ashlyn.godleski@haywoodcountync.gov or call 828.356.2567. • The Canton Branch of the Haywood County Public Library Creative Writing Group meets 10:30 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. For more information, email Jennifer at jennifer.stuart@haywoodcountync.gov or call 828.356.2561.

Smoky Mountain News

n To have your item listed email to calendar@smokymountainnews.com • Creative Writing Club will take place at 3:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of every month at the Macon County Public Library. The writing club is intended for ages 8-12. For more information visit fontanalib.org or call 828.524.3600. • Mother Goose Storytime takes place 10:30-11 a.m. every Wednesday, at the Waynesville branch of the Haywood County Public Library. Ideal for children from birth to 2 years old. For more information, contact Lisa at lisa.hartzell@haywoodcountync.gov or call 828.356.2511. • Next Chapter Book Club Haywood is a fun, energetic and highly interactive book club, ideal for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The group meets every second and fourth Monday of the month. For more information, email Jennifer at jennifer.stuart@haywoodcountync.gov or call 828.356.2561. • Storytime takes place at 10 a.m. every Tuesday at the Macon County Library. For more information visit fontanalib.org or call 828.524.3600. • Toddler’s Rock takes place at 10 a.m. every Monday at the Macon County Library. Get ready to rock with songs, books, rhymes and playing with instruments. For more information visit fontanalib.org or call 828.524.3600. • Art afternoon takes place at 3:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Macon County Public Library. For more information visit fontanalib.org or call 828.524.3600.

A&E

• Sylva Writers Group meets Wednesday mornings at City Lights Books. If interested contact sylvawriters@gmail.com.

• Stecoah’s annual Harvest Festival will take place 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. The festival celebrates all things fall with music, food, art and crafts vendors, country fair, quilt show, artisan demonstrations and more. For more information visit stecoahvalleycenter.com.

AUTHORS AND BOOKS

• Trivia Night is hosted 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Thursday evening at the Meadowlark Motel in Maggie Valley. For more information visit meadowlarkmotel.com.

• Ron Rash will speak on his new book “The Caretaker” during an event at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, in the Fangmeyer at Hart Theater in Waynesville. Hosted by Blue Ridge Books, tickets are $10. Profits will be donated to the Pigeon Center.

KIDS AND FAMILIES • The Arts Council of Macon County and the Macon County Library are partnering to offer Traditional Mountain Clogging with Cheryl Renfro at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, at the Macon County Library. For more information call 828.524.3600 or visit fontanalib.org. • The Arts Council of Macon County and the Macon County Library are partnering to offer Cherokee Dance with Bill Dyar at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at the Macon County Library. For more information call 828.524.3600 or visit fontanalib.org. • The Jackson County Public Library in Sylva will host a kids’ program about moon exploration on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. Randi Neff will lead these activities focused on NASA’s Artemis program, with aims to one day establish a base on the Moon. Co-sponsored by Friends of the Jackson County Public Library. For more information call 828.586.2016.

• Paint and Sip at Waynesville Art School will be held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7-9:30 p.m. To learn more and register call 828.246.9869 or visit PaintAndSipWaynesville.com/upcoming-events. Registration is required, $45. • Mountain Makers Craft Market will be held from noon to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at 308 North Haywood St. in downtown Waynesville. Over two dozen artisans selling handmade and vintage goods. Special events will be held when scheduled. mountainmakersmarket.com. • Smoky Mountain Event Center presents Bingo Night with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. and games starting at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday and fourth Monday of the month. For more information visit smokymountaineventcenter.com.

FOOD AND DRINK • “Flights & Bites” will be held starting at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville. For more information on upcoming events, wine tastings and special dinners, click on waynesvillewine.com. • A free wine tasting will be held from 6-8 p.m. every

Thursday and 2-5 p.m. every Saturday at The Wine Bar & Cellar in Sylva. 828.631.3075. • Take a trip around the world with four different wines every Friday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 11a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bryson City Wine Market. Pick from artisan Charcuterie Foods to enjoy with wines. 828.538.0420 • Cooking classes take place at the McKinley Edwards Inn from 6-8:30 p.m. on Thursday nights. To reserve your spot call 828.488.9626.

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • Chess 101 takes place from 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Friday in the Canton Branch of the Haywood County Public Library. No registration required, for more information call 828.648.2924. • Wired Wednesday, one-on-one technology help is available at 3-5 p.m. every Wednesday at the Canton Branch of the Haywood County Library. For more information or to register, call 828.648.2924. • Uptown Gallery, 30 East Main St. Franklin, will be offering Children’s Art Classes Wednesdays afternoons. Adult workshops in watercolor, acrylic paint pouring, encaustic and glass fusing are also offered. Free painting is available 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Monday in the classroom. A membership meeting takes place on the second Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. All are welcome. Call 828.349.4607 for more information.

ART SHOWINGS AND GALLERIES • “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. 828.349.4607 or pm14034@yahoo.com.

Outdoors

• Take a free guided tour of fall leaves at the Highlands Nature Center in Highlands at 4 p.m. any Friday or Saturday throughout October. No registration necessary. Tours are weather-dependent. For more information visit highlandsbiological.org.

• Hear the true trail story behind the book “Jingles’ Promise” at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Norm Morris, whose trail name is Jingles, will share his Appalachian Trail journey from Georgia to Maine, while his wife Rochelle, whose trail name is SherpaShell, offered support from the backroads in their camper van. The program is cosponsored by the library and Nantahala Hiking Club, with visitors welcome and a free raffle. Books will be available for purchase. • Celebrate the Year of the Trail with an easy 5-mile hike on the Buck Springs Trail near the Pisgah Inn Saturday, Oct. 14. Hikes are organized by Haywood County Recreation and Parks. Registration is $10. Sign up at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation. • Help restore the trail to the beloved Craggy Pinnacle overlook during a workday Saturday, Oct. 14. The group will meet at the parking lot of the Folk Art Center off the Blue Ridge Parkway at 8:15 a.m. to carpool, returning to the Folk Art Center by 3 p.m. Wear sturdy boots and long pants, and bring work gloves, lunch and water. Tools and hard hats will be provided. Register at carolinamtnclub.org/eventform.cfm. Contact Les Love with questions at lesrlove55@gmail.com.

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: n Complete listings of local music scene n Regional festivals n Art gallery events and openings n Complete listings of recreational offerings at health and fitness centers n Civic and social club gatherings • Learn the fundamentals of survival and first aid during Women’s Wilderness Weekend, coming up Oct. 13-15 at Nantahala Outdoor Center in Swain County. The program costs $425 and is open to women ages 16 and up. Discounts on lodging and dining are available for participants. Learn more or register at noc.com/events/womens-wilderness-weekend. • A moderate to strenuous 3.5-mile hike exploring the Waynesville Watershed will embark at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17. The group will meet at the town’s water treatment plant and return by 2 p.m. Reserve a spot with Christine O’Brien, Christine.haywoodwaterways@gmail.com or 828.476.4667, ext. 1. • Trout Unlimited Cataloochee’s regular monthly meeting will take place 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at the Maggie Valley Town Hall Pavilion. • Learn the art of Southern Appalachian fly tying with an eight-week course taught by local expert Tommy Thomas. Class will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays Oct. 18 through Dec. 13 at the Folkmoot Center in Waynesville. Offered through Haywood County Recreation, the course costs $30 for instruction, supplies and equipment. Sign up at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation. • Middle school students are invited to try some hiking and fly fishing, with events planned Oct. 19 and 24. This month, a hike will be offered Tuesday, Oct. 14, and fly fishing Thursday, Oct. 19. For more information, contact FUMC at 828.456.9475, ext. 302. • Learn how to stay safe in the woods with a course 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at Standing Rock Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Search and rescue trainer Steve Kuni will teach what hikers should always have in their pack and what to do to keep yourself safe and alive when you find yourself out in the woods after dark. The course will include a hands-on outdoor portion. Register at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation. • The Hemlock Restoration Initiative will lead a hike at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville Saturday, Oct. 21. Leaders will discuss the importance of native hemlocks and the threat they face from the invasive hemlock wooly adelgid, as well as treatment methods and precautions to be used near streams. Sign up at savehemlocksnc.org/arboretum-hike-oct-2023. • Celebrate the inaugural Great Trails State Day in North Carolina by giving Panthertown some love Saturday, Oct. 21. The group will meet at the Salt Rock Gap Trailhead near Cashiers for a volunteer work day running 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more or sign up at panthertown.org/volunteer. • Hike Pinnacle Park in Sylva during an excursion starting 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, offered through the Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department. Cost is $7. Register at jcprd.recdesk.com/community/program. Contact trevorbrown@jacksonnc.org with questions. • A gathering of women who love the outdoors will take place Saturday, Nov. 4, at Vogel State Park in Georgia. Breakfast and registration begin at 8 a.m. and programming at 8:45. Registration required at womenstrailsummit.com.

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828.734.2146

WNC MarketPlace

STARTING SUBGENRES ACROSS 1 Worker welfare gp. 5 Bark syllables 11 Perform a dynamic crowd action in a stadium 20 Hospital bed attachment 21 Nomadic type 22 Turpentine, for one 23 1983-2014 periodical for adolescents 25 Reins are parts of them 26 The first task on the to-do list 27 Help-wanteds, e.g. 29 Musician Nugent 30 Musician DiFranco 31 Africa's Sierra -33 No-problem advancement 37 What a bitingly sarcastic person has 41 Ostrich lookalike 42 Olympic swimmer Tom 43 Royal heirs, often 44 Veep's boss 45 NYC subway org. 46 Shocking fish, at times 47 Stuff causing a blowup 48 Conservative moral principles 55 Like Ikea assemblies, for short 56 Sitcom alien 57 Sloop, e.g. 58 Sch. group 59 Summits 62 Smell terrible 65 Splendid 67 Special times 68 Span rotating horizontally to allow ships through

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

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October 11-17, 2023

WNC MarketPlace

October 11-17, 2023

Smoky Mountain News

Smoky Mountain News October 11-17, 2023