Smoky Mountain News | October 25, 2023 by Smoky Mountain News

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October 25-31, 2023 Vol. 25 Iss. 22

Honor Flight brings hope, healing to veterans Page 4 Research to test for Canton mill contamination Page 28

CONTENTS On the Cover: Crime statistics are often contorted by all kinds of individuals and entities to make whatever point they want, but how reliable are those numbers? The Smoky Mountain News talked to local law enforcement leaders and a Western Carolina criminal justice professor to break it down. (Page 10)

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News Honor Flight brings hope, healing to veterans ............................................................4 Whittier man charged with attempted kidnapping ....................................................5 For Canton, challenges are opportunities ....................................................................6 Huge grant for affordable housing coming to Haywood..........................................7 New N.C. electoral maps just more of the same for the west................................8 Private school to open in Sylva......................................................................................12 Seven childcare centers to close in WNC ................................................................14 Tribal Council approves first Constitution Convention delegates ......................15 Community briefs................................................................................................................17

Opinion Choose wisely when voting for Waynesville’s next leaders..................................18 How attitude diseases can ruin the good life............................................................19

A&E Crossroads seem to come and go: A conversation with Chuck Leavell..........20 Local tales are well told in this book ............................................................................27

Outdoors Research to test for contamination near Canton mill property ............................28 Check out the FROG Fair ..............................................................................................31

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Scott McLeod. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@smokymountainnews.com Greg Boothroyd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . greg@smokymountainnews.com Micah McClure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . micah@smokymountainnews.com Jessica Murray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jessica.m@smokymountainnews.com Jack Snyder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jack.s@smokymountainnews.com Stefanee Sherman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . stefanee@mtnsouthmedia.com Susanna Shetley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . susanna.b@smokymountainnews.com Amanda Bradley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jc-ads@smokymountainnews.com Sophia Burleigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . sophia.b@smokymountainnews.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Kyle Perrotti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . kyle.p@smokymountainnews.com Holly Kays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . holly@smokymountainnews.com Hannah McLeod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hannah@smokymountainnews.com Cory Vaillancourt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cory@smokymountainnews.com Garret K. Woodward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . garret@smokymountainnews.com Jamie Cogdill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . smnbooks@smokymountainnews.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Jeff Minick (writing), Chris Cox (writing), Don Hendershot (writing), Thomas Crowe (writing)

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Honor flight brings hope, healing to veterans BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR or nearly two decades, a unique nonprofit with roots in Western North Carolina has helped to recognize veterans for their wartime service. But as World War II and Korean conflict veterans become increasingly rare, Vietnam-era veterans are finding that the Blue Ridge Honor Flight has helped them, and the country, reckon with a complex wartime legacy — one soldier at a time. “It closed the door to a lot of good and bad memories,” said Ernie Edwards, a Haywood County resident who accompanied 182 others, including 83 Vietnam veterans, on recent Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Edwards was a childhood pal of Capt. Fred Hall, a Waynesville native who went missing in Vietnam in 1969. Hall was listed as missing in action for more than half a century, until his remains were identified earlier this year. He was laid to rest in Waynesville’s Green Hill Cemetery on Oct. 11, with full military honors. After serving two tours in the Navy during the Vietnam conflict, during which more than 58,000 Americans were killed, Edwards returned home to a country he barely recognized. “We received oranges and tomatoes and bananas — thrown at us. Yelling. Name callwhich is now headquartered in Arlington, ing,” Edwards recalls. “We expected some sense of welcome, but everybody turned their Virginia. Since then, it’s estimated that more than 244,000 veterans have traveled from backs on us, and it was a shocker. Our homeacross the country to Washington with one of coming was bittersweet. We were home, but nearly 130 separate Honor Flight chapters. we weren’t welcomed home.” Although the trips sound relatively Edwards said he’d waited nearly 30 years straightforward, the logistics of keeping more to hear someone say, “welcome home,” or than 180 people — many elderly, with health “thank you for your service.” concerns or mobility issues — fed, watered Alongside fellow Haywood vets Lawrence and all moving together in the right direction Braxton, J.W. Finney, Butch High, Harris are intimidating. Rathbone, Richard Reeves, Alfred Skipper, JoAnn Naeger, who lost a cousin in Sam Smiley and Jimmy Smith, Edwards flew Vietnam, has been with BRHF since 2008 and to Washington on Oct. 14. The flight, BRHF’s serves as flight coor45th, was dedicated to dinator. Along with a the memory of Hall. “This is something that I team of volunteers, Hall’s widow, Julia think definitely should be she’s in charge of Hall Coffey, was also keeping BRHF’s two aboard. utilized more often, trips a year on track. Founded in 2005 because it does bring Once the trip is over, by Ohio physician assistant Earl Morse, closure, it does allow them she goes right back to work planning the son of a WWII veterto see that we are grateful next one. an, HonorAir took 12 “As I’ve gotten vets in six small for their service and what more involved and planes to Washington they did for us at the time.” heard the veterans’ to visit the newly stories, it’s such a opened WWII memo— Cheryl Cox small price to give rial after Morse, who back for what they worked at the VA, did, so I do whatever it takes to get them on learned that many vets he knew had never the flight,” Naeger said. “We would fly every seen it. day if we could.” Later that year, Hendersonville businessThe Oct. 14 flight left Asheville around man Jeff Miller, also the son of a WWII veter8:45 a.m., after veterans and their escorts, an, built on Morse’s concept and organized called guardians, passed through security. commercial flights out of Asheville in 2006, Thanks to legislation called the Honor bringing more than 300 veterans to Flight Act, passed by Congress in 2014, Honor Washington, free of charge. Flight participants take advantage of an expeMorse and Miller soon merged their dited security screening. No lines, no substan4 groups, creating the Honor Flight Network,

Smoky Mountain News

October 25-31, 2023

Julia Hall Coffey, widow of recently identified MIA Capt. Fred Hall, locates his name on the Vietnam Veterans memorial for the very first time. Cory Vaillancourt photo

tial searches, no x-rays. Each flight also has at least one physician, several EMTs and a trauma counselor on board. Breakfast was served at the gate, and after the short flight to Baltimore, everyone boarded one of four chartered busses, led by an escort from a Maryland State Trooper. Upon arrival at the Lincoln Memorial, veterans participated in a short ceremony and were then free to visit several other nearby memorials on the National Mall. Despite pouring rain and temperatures hovering in the low 60s, many vets made their way to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, known to many as The Wall. It was there that Coffey, Hall’s widow, saw his name on the monument for the very first time. Coffey said she was pleased to see it, but not everyone shares the same sentiment when confronted with memories of a painful past — especially the veterans who were there. Behavioral health experts are left to pick up the pieces. “We deal with a lot of depression,” said Cheryl Cox, a registered nurse who works for AccentCare Regional Behavioral Health in Georgia. “We deal with a lot of severe anxiety around a lot of situations like things that are going on currently [in Israel], so we try to step in and just be some type of support.” AccentCare partners with the VA to help veterans with PTSD by utilizing in-home cognitive behavioral therapy. Cox said that a lot of Vietnam-era vets still feel there’s a stigma around mental health treatment, so many have never sought help. However, experiences like an Honor Flight can actually be quite therapeutic.

Cox related the story of one of her behavioral health nurses whose father flew to Washington with an Honor Flight group out of Chicago. Unbeknownst to the veteran, his family was there waiting for him, and he also ended up running into two people with whom he’d served. “He was overwhelmed,” Cox said. “He was overcome with joy, because this was an experience that he thought he would never have and because he did, he just felt so much better about it. So I do know that it does help them. This is something that I think definitely should be utilized more often, because it does bring closure, it does allow them to see that we are grateful for their service and what they did for us at the time.” After spending time on the National Mall, the busses proceeded to several other D.C.area monuments, including Arlington National Cemetery, where more than 400,000 servicemembers and some of their relatives are buried. The trip concluded with a return flight to Asheville, but that wasn’t quite the end of the journey. The Allegiant jet didn’t return to the terminal at Asheville. Instead, around 9:15 p.m., it pulled up outside a hangar where hundreds of people, waving flags and holding signs, waited for the veterans to disembark. Once they did, they were led into the hangar where a raucous celebration including a full Scottish pipe band, was already underway. It’s the “welcome home” many of them didn’t get. “When they get home,” Naeger said, “and they are greeted like they were never greeted before — the smiles, the joy of seeing their family members — it’s the healing that you can see, when they finally come home.”

Whittier man charged with attempted kidnapping

designed to foster synergy between Vaya and the communities it serves within its regions — building connections and partnerships with County DSS offices and mental health providers. Based on multi-sector focus groups conducted in the planning phases, Vaya identified key needs to be addressed within the system, such as: shared understanding, accessible quality behavioral health assessments and interventions, as well as safe and supportive homes. In response, workgroups composed of cross-system stakeholders were created to develop, plan and implement solutions — and partner with communities to address identified needs. To register for an upcoming training and to learn more about the Pathways to Permanency program, please reach out to Ashely Parks at ashley.parks@vayahealth.com.

Vaya Health unveiled the latest addition to its “Pathways to Permanency” program. The new training, titled “Child Welfare 101” focuses on educating local stakeholders on North Carolina’s welfare system, as well as how local Department of Social Services (DSS) offices are serving their communities. Child Welfare 101 is a critical component of Vaya’s ongoing commitment to enhancing collaboration between community stakeholders and those in the child welfare and behavioral health sectors. The Pathways to Permanency program is

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Smoky Mountain News

Vaya partners with DSS to provide overview of child welfare system

October 25-31, 2023

Investigators interviewed Blankenship the day following the incident. While he at first said he was at work when it happened, he changed his story to say he was drunk that night and didn’t remember what took place, the complaint says, though based on the amount of gas in his car the next morning he knew he must have gone somewhere. Then, in a final version of events that Blankenship only related after investigators agreed to turn off their recording devices, the complaint says, Blankenship said that he had texted L.P. around 10 p.m. Sept. 27, asking to hang out. But she declined, saying she was tired and wanted to stay home. “Blankenship claimed he was disappointed and began drinking heavily,” the complaint says. “While drinking, he noticed L.P.’s Snapchat location showed her on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This upset him, so he decided to go ‘scare her.’” Blankenship allegedly told investigators that he got out of the car with his 9mm Glock in hand, grabbed L.P. by the hair and ordered her into his car, slapping her when she reached for her phone. He admitted that he fired one round toward the ground. Though the shell casing failed to extract from the chamber, he continued to point the gun at the couple, eventually letting them leave after L.M. “was able to convince him this was wrong.” After following them down the Parkway, he texted L.P. not to mention the incident to anybody and then deleted their messages on Snapchat. Blankenship was arrested Wednesday, Oct. 11, and remains in federal custody. He faces multiple charges: kidnapping, two counts of assault with intent to commit a felony, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm and possession and discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. The kidnapping and firearm charges each carry a maximum penalty of life in prison, with the firearm charge also carrying a minimum sentence of 10 years. Each of the assault charges carry a maximum of 10 years. An arraignment hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge W. Carleton Metcalf is set for Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the U.S. District Court in Asheville.

news

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER Whittier man could spend the rest of his life in prison after he allegedly threatened a woman at gunpoint in an attempted kidnapping at the Waterrock Knob Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, where he had tracked her using social media. According to a complaint filed in U.S. District Court on Tuesday, Oct. 10, Evan William Blankenship, 22, “sped into” the overlook parking lot at 3:15 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, driving a white Chevrolet Camaro. The only other car there at the time was the vehicle where the woman, referred to in the complaint as L.P., sat with a man referred to as L.M. Blankenship allegedly got out of his car, opened the passenger door of L.M.’s vehicle where L.P. sat, and pointed a semi-automatic pistol at the couple. He then allegedly tried to pull L.P. out of the car by her hair and right arm, telling her to get into his car and nodding his head “yes” when she asked if he was taking her so he could rape her. During the encounter, Blankenship allegedly hit L.P. in the face so hard that she sustained temporary hearing loss in her left ear and bruising on her face, firing the gun into the air before pointing it back toward the couple. “The duration of the incident varied between L.P. and L.M.’s recollection, but they both indicated that L.M. was eventually able to convince Blankenship to let them go after repeatedly promising not to report the incident to the police,” the complaint says. L.M. then drove down the mountain, Blankenship following close behind until reaching U.S. 74, the complaint says. Despite the early hour, the two eventually found law enforcement and reported the alleged crime. L.P. told investigators that she had met Blankenship in person only once before, “hanging out” as they drove around together for a few hours, the complaint states. Blankenship had added L.P. on Snapchat about a year prior. L.P. believed that Blankenship found her the morning of the incident using Snapchat’s live location-sharing feature, which made her real-time location visible to friends on the app.

news

Canton will soon hold its first municipal election ever without the iconic paper mill in operation. Max Cooper photo

For Canton, challenges are opportunities

Smoky Mountain News

October 25-31, 2023

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS EDITOR espite all the important elections taking place in Western North Carolina this fall, there’s probably no other town with more on the line than Canton. In early August 2021, everything was humming along nicely in Haywood County’s easternmost municipality. The nation was emerging from the Coronavirus Pandemic, Canton’s downtown was continuing to blossom after a decade of decline and the massive paper mill at the heart of town was still pumping out product, much as it had for the preceding hundred years. That all changed on Aug. 17, when heavy rains associated with a weakening tropical storm pounded the headwaters of the Pigeon River, releasing a torrent that would end up killing six on its way to devastating Canton’s downtown business core for the second time in less than 20 years. Flood recovery became a full-time job for Town Manager Nick Scheuer and his staff, guided by the town’s elected board. Before the town could fully recover, another catastrophe — this one, human-caused — threatened not only the town’s viability, but also its identity. Pactiv Evergreen shocked the region when on March 6 company officials told workers that the mill, one of the area’s largest and bestpaying employers, would close forever in less than four months. The closure has already demonstrated an economic ripple effect across the mountains, all the way into Canton’s municipal coffers; tax revenue will go down, unemployment will go 6 up and the elected board, led by Mayor Zeb

Smathers, has to figure out a path for longterm sustainability. These challenges, however, are opportunities for Canton to remake itself in a number of ways, not the least of which involves the future of the 185-acre mill site, which is still privately owned, prone to flooding and likely riddled with pollution. Mayor Pro Tem Gail Mull and Alderman Ralph Hamlett, both longtime members of the board, are up for reelection this year. As with the post-flood election in 2021, when incumbents Tim Shepard and Kristina Proctor won reelection over a lone challenger, Mull and Hamlett face opposition this year.

The Challenger Adam Hatton moved to Canton from Buncombe County when he was in seventh grade, graduated from Pisgah High School, worked his way up in the Center Pigeon Fire Department and began towing cars in 2004. In July 2018, Hatton launched his own towing company. “It takes a lot of hard work and long hours and caring about your people,” Hatton said. “My opinion is if you call Hatton’s towing, you’re just like family.” Hatton said he first learned about politics at his grandfather’s knee, listening to him argue with the people on television. About a decade ago, he rekindled his interest in politics by watching debates. “Now I understand why he was yelling and cussing,” Hatton laughed. Hatton decided this would be the year he would finally get involved because he wants to help with post-flood and post-mill recovery.

But he’s also concerned about the town’s identity and wants to see it more closely resemble what he remembers from his youth. “I think it’s just a lack of us as a community pulling together in making sports what they used to be,” Hatton said. “I remember playing little league [baseball] for Canton and it seemed like when we had tryouts in front of the middle school, it was just a packed, and it’s not there anymore.” While youth sports leagues aren’t typically the domain of municipal governments, Hatton insists that there’s not a lot for young people in town to do, aside from the new splash pad, the pool, the trails at Chestnut Mountain and the facilities at Recreation Park. The larger issue of the mill site’s future, however, also presents an identity crisis for Canton, says Hatton. “I would love to see us stay some kind of mill town, because that’s who we are. We are a mill town. You take that away, then what we’ve grown for and what’s been there for a hundred years, it’s a waste,” he said. “I really hope we don’t make it a housing area. We don’t need to become a housing department for Asheville, we don’t need to be like the surrounding counties of Atlanta or Charlotte. We need to make sure that we stay our own little town and focus on bringing stuff in this area for revenue.” The housing crisis, nationally as well as locally, can be an impediment to economic development. Businesses are reluctant to relocate to an area where housing is unavailable, or unaffordable. “Affordable housing, I think, is a thing of the past,” Hatton said. “But at some point, we’ve got to stop looking at the profit and start worrying about our people and if our housing

people in our governments would look at that as well, we could stop this price increase. “Making downtown Canton a little Biltmore Park area is not going to do us no justice. Yes, it’s going to bring in revenue from taxes. But what’s it going to do for our communities?” Hatton called a recent industrial development moratorium, passed by the town in July to ensure the town has a say in the future of the parcel, “strong arming,” although he said he wouldn’t argue against it at this time because admittedly, he’s at a disadvantage — per state statutes, the real meat of the discussions on Canton’s most consequential issues have been taking place in closed sessions, so only current board members and staff really know what’s happening. The same goes for flood recovery, which Scheuer said is about 50% complete. Hatton lost his house in Clyde during the 2004 floods, and said he’s satisfied with how the town has responded to the most recent inundation. Now, the town is looking for a site for its new wastewater treatment plant after a massive appropriation from the General Assembly at the behest of Sen. Kevin Corbin (R-Macon) and Rep. Mark Pless (R-Haywood). Hatton wants to be part of the decision-making process. “I would love to say I am the guy that can fix the problem, but I think with a team effort and great minds and open hearts, we could find the right location,” he said. Another less-apparent issue looming in Canton is the town’s transportation network. As the town grew up around the mill, roads and rails were laid down without much thought for the townspeople. Instead, the ceaseless transit of raw materials into the mill, and finished product out of the mill, were

The Incumbents

Huge grant for affordable housing coming to Haywood

August 2021 caused hundreds of millions of dollars in property damages. Colores went on to describe two programs that will incentivize development and put home ownership within reach for those who might not think it is right now. The first program, funded at $10.5 million, is called the affordable housing program, but Colores said that many instead refer to it as the “workforce” housing program. Either way, the program is open to homeownership and rental development projects promising long-term affordability. Both single-family and multifamily developments are eligible for consideration. A wide range of public and private organizations will be able to apply for funding, including community agencies, nonprofits, property management groups, developers or combinations and partnerships of multiple organizations. A competitive application process will take place through spring, with a local evaluation panel scoring the applications and then making recommendations to commissioners, who will vote on them — hopefully in July. The second program is a down payment assistance program for first-time homebuyers, funded at $1 million. The program makes $20,000 available for buyers, plus 5% towards

Street Park and some nearby plots still owned by the mill, that’s another dozen acres of downtown opportunity, regardless of what happens at the mill site. Hamlett said that as people become more environmentally conscious, accommodating bicyclists needs to be a focus when the town makes decisions on the fate of its downtown. Mull, however, was enthusiastic about an overlooked transportation option that would provide an economic boost to another major industry affected by the mill shutdown. Mull remembers taking the train from Asheville to Greensboro in the 1960s. Freight operations were always central to the mill’s success, but the short-line Blue Ridge Southern Railroad lost 70% of its business when the mill closed, according to Mull. The railroad recently received a $12 million federal grant for infrastructure improvements to ensure it can still service other customers further west down the line, but it won’t help much in terms of long-range operating expenses. Despite the mill’s demise, Canton still has more significant rail infrastructure than most small Western North Carolina towns. Passenger traffic from points east would be a game-changer for the region’s tourist-driven economy, from Canton to Bryson City. It’s but one of many possibilities; however, Canton can’t afford to dismiss anything at this point. The clock is ticking on Pactiv Evergreen’s wastewater treatment plant operation and an additional $4 million in state funding from Pless won’t plug the town’s substantial budget hole for long. As buyout parcels leave the town’s tax rolls forever, expanding the tax base has become critical. “We have to look forward. Looking back, you know, the good old days, we can’t dwell on that. We still have to be innovative,” Mull said. “We still have to have new ideas, and we have to move forward. Some of the old ideas, we’re never bringing them back. It worked fine then, but what are the chances of it working again?” Early voting in North Carolina is already underway and ends on Saturday, Nov. 4. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7.

closing costs. First-time homebuyers who were displaced by Tropical Storm Fred would be eligible for $30,000 plus 5%. First-generation homebuyers, first responders and local government staff are also eligible at the $30,000 level. In any case, pre-purchase homebuyer education is required, the property must be in Haywood County and the down payment assistance is forgiven after five years so long as recipients utilize the home as their primary residence during that time. The $1 million will be split into two pots, with 70% of it going to households making at or below 80% of area median income (AMI), which is about $60,000 for a family of four, according to Colores. The other $300,000 is earmarked for households earning more than that, up to 120% of AMI. “We desperately need housing for our workforce,” said Kevin Ensley, chairman of the Haywood County Board of Commissioners. “Actually, it’s getting worse.” Ensley’s prophetic words came just after a presentation by Tax Assessor Judy Hickman, who provided an update on the county’s property revaluation efforts. New values will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025. A sampling of home sales data, compared to the assessed tax value of those homes, shows some selling for between 27% and 136% over assessed value.

Smoky Mountain News

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS E DITOR Haywood County Commissioners got some great news Oct. 16 that will help the community ameliorate the effects of a red-hot real estate market on local housing affordability and availability. “The original agreement that we executed with Haywood County provided for $7 million of programmable funds,” said Tracy Colores, community development director with the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency. “The same day that you authorized the county to execute that agreement with us, HUD announced they were giving us more money specifically for Tropical Storm Fred recovery.” The $7 million came from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Now, there’s additional $4.6 million that must be spent by Sept. 30, 2028. Haywood County had already been experiencing an affordable housing crisis even before devastating flooding that came from the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred in

balance desperately needed growth with the desire to maintain the town’s character. “What we’re doing with our ordinances is to make sure that our communities have the roads, and the sidewalks, but more importantly, water and sewer, because if you have a property and you can’t get water to it,” Hamlett said, “you don’t have anything.” Mull added that the identity of Canton is not jeopardized by new people coming in; indeed, the mill itself — responsible for generations of economic prosperity — sprang up in the early 1900s because of some Yankees from Ohio. “I had different bosses from New York, Arizona, wherever, who moved here,” Mull said. “To be threatened by that is just paranoia. You can’t live your life that way.” That said, Hamlett doesn’t want Canton to become Asheville. He doesn’t even want it to become Waynesville. Mayor Smathers has said that he doesn’t mind being west of Asheville, but he doesn’t want to be West Asheville. Leading the recovery and restoration of town assets destroyed in the flood remains a priority, which means that the board and town staff are now consumed with managing multiple processes with multiple stages — site selection, engineering, design, grading, bids, construction and completion — all paid for from multiple state and federal funding streams. So far, buildings have been procured for the new police station and the new town hall. They’ll need extensive renovation, as will two historic gems, the Armory and the Colonial Theater. Sites still need to be selected for the wastewater treatment plant and the new fire department. Consequently, much of that area on Park Street will come to resemble Sorrells Street Park in at least a metaphoric way. The downtown green space now home to concerts and festivals only exists because of previous flooding. The old town hall and fire station will eventually be torn down, opening up those parcels. There’s even been talk of buying out nearby Bethel Christian Academy. Including the town parking lot, Sorrells

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Hamlett and Mull have both been on the board for 10 years. Hamlett, a retired university professor focusing on American government, grew up the son of the town’s police chief. Mull is retired from the mill and most recently served as the union’s secretary. Although they do have minor disagreements, they’re running as a team and running on their mutual experience in planning for the town’s future after the twin calamities of the last two years. Hamlett explained the reasoning behind the development moratorium, which expires next July but could be lifted by the board at any time.

“What we want to do is, whatever happens on that property, we want to make sure that it is safe, it is clean, it is sustainable and it provides opportunity for Canton’s citizens, the area, the region,” he said. “We would like to have a place at the table, and that’s what the moratorium does.” The moratorium came at least partially in response to complaints over a grainy white substance that was eventually traced to the paper mill, falling from the sky, coating cars, homes, lawns and gardens. It’s also in place to ensure that nothing more troublesome — a cryptocurrency mine, a tire incinerator or some other extractive industry — doesn’t curse the town with unanticipated consequences. In short, it’s about controlling the developmental destiny of the site, which Mull called “a toxic dump.” Environmental samplings and studies are underway, but the now-shuttered mill continues to rack up environmental violations from regulatory authorities. “We didn’t pass the moratorium to keep industry out of Canton,” she said. “We passed it in order to get businesses in. Something sustainable, something that will be long lasting, something besides a salvage company that’s just going to go in and wreck it and leave it.” Again, Hamlett and Mull likely know more about the future of the site than they’re legally allowed to reveal, but there’s been much speculation about what could come to be. Some mixed-use development may be possible on different parts of the sprawling site but resiliency is key, leaders say, because the river will flood again. Given Canton’s recent push toward outdoor recreation and taking into consideration the housing crisis, developers could end up killing several birds with one stone. A number of smaller housing developments have begun to appear in and around Canton, and the closing of the mill — the sickly-sweet stench of paper production didn’t exactly smell like “money” to every visitor who passed through town — is expected to produce a flood of its own, with new residents streaming in from across the region. The governing board has taken steps to

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paramount. Canton now has the opportunity to reimagine not only what its core looks like, but also how people get there and get around once they are there. “Let’s start with the pedestrians and the bicyclers. If you want [pedestrian-friendly paths and bicycle lanes], come show us in the town you want it, because there’s not enough [pedestrian and bicycle traffic] there to justify spending all this money to make it for you,” he said. “If you come use our town, then I’m down for it. I would love to see our town full with people walking and bicycles coming and stopping and going to that nice little park we got. But do it first, and then come talk to us about it.” Amid the coming change, Hatton reiterated his desire to see Canton look more the way it did when he was growing up there. “Something that’s important to me is parks and recreation. The mill, I’m not saying it’s not important, but I think we need to stop focusing on that for a few minutes and start focusing on our town,” he said. “I’m here hoping for a change for our community to the good. By no means do I think I’m the best man for the job, but I’m hoping I can make good changes and a big difference for not just me, but our younger generations, and make our town stay the small town that we are.”

New N.C. electoral maps just more of the same for the west

Smoky Mountain News

October 25-31, 2023

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BY CORY VAILLANCOURT “The competitiveness of NC-11 at large has not significantly changed, but I’ve had a number of people who are thinking of POLITICS E DITOR running reach out to me prior to the maps being released,” she ewly empowered General Assembly Republicans aren’t said. “They really want to step up and pull the cloak off Chuck even trying to hide the fact that the congressional and legEdwards and his policies. Edwards ran as a moderate, but he’s islative maps they drew behind closed doors and without openly courting Oath Keepers and the more extreme wing of the substantive public input will disenfranchise Democratic voters party in Western North Carolina, and has voted multiple times across the state — especially in Congress. “These maps are detrimental to fair representation across the for a [House] Speaker [candidate, Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio] who tried to overturn our democratic republic.” state for not only communities of color but also young people and people in rural areas who don’t want their counties split,” said Anderson Clayton, chair of the North Carolina One of two proposed congressional maps will probably Democratic Party. “They don’t want Republican legislators be enacted by the General Assembly next week. picking their own voters.” NCGA photo This most recent round of redistricting is not the first time North Carolina’s ruling party has attempted to squeeze more Republican seats out of a state that’s split nearly 50/50 among its two major parties. In the 2020 General Election, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump won the state by 1.34%. Republican state Supreme Court Chief Justice candidate Paul Newby beat Democrat Cheri Beasley by 401 votes out of 5,391,501 ballots cast. Democrat Roy Cooper won his second term as governor by 4.51%. In the 2022 General Election, three Republican state Supreme Court candidates won their races by 4.78%, 4.38% and 2.42%. Republican Ted Budd won a U.S. Senate seat over Beasley by 3.23%. During voting for the state’s 14 congressional seats, Republicans came away with a statewide total of North Carolina’s delegation in the U.S. House of 1,956,906 votes, while Democrats notched 1,795,170 votes. Representatives is currently split seven to seven. Once the new That showing gave Republicans 52.2% of congressional votes maps are adopted, that could mean a net loss for Democrats of cast that year, which should translate to winning 7.3 of the 14 three or four seats. As Republicans currently hold a nine-seat congressional seats. Republicans ended up with seven. advantage in the House, the new maps would make it tougher The Democratic total of 47.8% extrapolates to winning 6.7 of for Dems to reclaim the majority. the 14 congressional seats, which is exactly what they did, also But that may not exactly be the case. In Illinois and New scoring seven. York, the same arguments are being used by Democrats to disThose maps, however, were court-ordered — the result of enfranchise Republican voters. That could negate partisan plays what the Democrat-majority state Supreme Court called unconby Republicans in North Carolina, stacking ballots in other stitutional partisan gerrymandering by Republicans who drew states with Democrats and making it harder for Republicans to unfair maps in 2021. maintain control of the House. When the court flipped to Republican control, justices “It’s almost like, it’s the power that corrupts absolutely, and rushed to “re-hear” the maps case, and determined that partisan not the party,” Cooper said. gerrymandering was not, in fact, unconstitutional. On the state level, Cooper’s data shows that most legislators in the far west will see little to no change to their districts. In 2020, the 50th Senate District represented by Sen. Kevin HE LINES Corbin (R-Macon) included seven whole counties — Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain. After the New maps, dropped by the General Assembly on Oct. 18, 2022 redraw, Transylvania County was added in, while a chunk embrace that ruling wholeheartedly. Two proposed congressionof northeastern Haywood County was taken out and added to al maps produce basically the same result. the 47th District, represented by Mitchell County Republican According to data based on Trump’s 2020 General Election Sen. Ralph Hise. performance and compiled by Western Carolina University The new 50th District map is almost identical to the old one Professor Chris Cooper, the first map, coming from Senate Bill but for four precincts — White Oak, Fines Creek 2, Beaverdam 756, produces an 11-3 Republican advantage. The second map, 5/6 and Beaverdam 7, which will be returned to Corbin’s 50th. from SB 757, would result in a 10-3 Republican advantage, with In all practicality, the change means little; Corbin committed one congressional district leaning Democrat by a single percentto addressing the concerns of Haywood County residents age point. whether they live in his 50th District or not, and Hise used his In either case, Western North Carolina’s 11th Congressional considerable sway to ensure Corbin and Haywood got what they District wouldn’t change much at all, numbers-wise. Both maps needed to deal with devastating floods in 2021 and the closing would take the 11th from 55% Republican to 56% Republican. of the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill in Canton earlier this year. The SB 756 map adds Avery and Mitchell counties to the Cooper’s data shows that Corbin’s “new” district is four11th, while removing a small portion of southeast Buncombe tenths of one percent more Republican than his old one. Again, County and the half of Rutherford County that had been in the the change matters little. Corbin won both of his Senate elec11th. The SB 757 map also adds Avery and Mitchell counties, tions with more than 66% of the vote. while removing the half of Rutherford County that had been in The other 49 senatorial districts drawn by Republicans could the 11th and the eastern half of Polk County. at best net them two more seats in addition to the 30 they The NC-11 seat is currently held by Republican Chuck already enjoy, says Cooper. Edwards (R-Henderson) who actually underperformed against Western House Reps. Karl Gillespie (R-Macon), Mike Asheville Democrat Jasmine Beach-Ferrara in 2022, winning with Clampitt (R-Swain) and Mark Pless (R-Haywood) will see no 53.8% of the vote to Beach-Ferrara’s 44.5%; Libertarian David changes to their current districts. Gillespie’s 120th remains Coatney earned 1.7%. 74.2% Republican, Clampitt’s 119th weighs in at 56.6% and Pless Katie Dean, chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party’s is still at 63.3%. 11th Congressional District, thinks it’s too early to tell if the new Asheville, however, is a different story. Buncombe County’s maps will make candidate recruiting easier or harder, but she has three House districts were rejiggered, which could cost 8 already heard from some potential 2024 candidates.

Democrats a seat there. Caleb Rudow’s new district is only 20.1% Republican and Eric Ager’s weighs in at 44.1% Republican, but first-term incumbent Lindsey Prather’s new district will give her a tough reelection fight in 2024, at 54.1% Republican. Republicans already claim 72 of the chamber’s 120 seats. The new maps could net them anywhere from zero to five additional seats. So long as there are no surprises on Election Day in 2024, the NCGOP looks to be a lock to retain or expand the veto-proof supermajority that currently exists. “Though these maps were drawn through a secretive and purely partisan process, they were no surprise,” Prather said. “The Republican supermajority drew the best maps they could to keep themselves in the supermajority, regardless of voters’ wishes, which is exactly what we figured they would do. Buncombe County outside of Asheville has been steadily trending blue, yet this map blatantly attempts to carve out a Republican seat where one doesn’t belong.”

THE LAWSUITS It wouldn’t be redistricting in North Carolina without the threat of lawsuits looming. The Associated Press says that every round of remapping in North Carolina since the 1980s has been challenged in courts. “The question is, if people sue, are they going to be trying to sue to block for 2024 or are they just going wait it out until 2026?” Cooper said. The filing period for the March 5, 2024, Primary Election begins on Dec. 4 of this year. That doesn’t leave a lot of time for litigating and possibly redrawing the proposed maps. If there is a suit, it’ll likely involve only the congressional map. Where the suit ends up depends on what issue the plaintiffs raise. If it’s a partisan question alleging violations of the state constitution, it would go to the state Supreme Court and likely fail in the face of a predetermined partisan outcome. If it’s a racial question alleging violations of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, it would go to federal district court. Enacted by President Lyndon Johnson to protect the voting rights of racial minorities in the South, the VRA has seen substantial revision by the U.S. Supreme Court in recent years, although Section 2, which deals with racial discrimination, remains. Any such suit would likely center on the 1st Congressional District represented by Donald Davis, one of only three Black reps from North Carolina. The largest racial group in Davis’ district is Black. “The federal courts have been a little bit reticent on partisan questions lately, but they have been surprisingly eager to rule with plaintiffs based on arguments about race,” Cooper said. In January, a three judge-panel unanimously ruled South Carolina’s congressional map unconstitutional because it intentionally discriminated against Black people. The case was heard in the Supreme Court earlier this month. Last month, SCOTUS ruled against Alabama’s assertion that it would draw a map with only one Black-majority district instead of two. North Carolina has an unfortunate recent history with racial gerrymandering. In May 2017, the Supreme Court struck down a congressional map after an appeals court had ruled that it targeted Black populations for disenfranchisement “with almost surgical precision.” As The Smoky Mountain News was going to print on Oct. 24, the General Assembly was considering the new maps as well as small adjustments to them. If duly adopted and unchallenged in court, the new maps will remain in effect through the 2030 election. Clayton said she “definitely” thinks the maps will be challenged. NCGOP Chair Michael Whatley didn’t respond to an email requesting comment on this story.

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Haywood County saw a massive drop in crime of over 38% between 2021 and 2022.

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Trusting the numbers

Smoky Mountain News

October 25-31, 2023

Stats show drop in WNC crime, but can the figures be trusted?

BY KYLE PERROTTI N EWS E DITOR here’s an old mantra in law enforcement: don’t take credit for the good times unless you’re willing to take equal responsibility for the bad. With the recent release of 2022 crime statistics by the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, it might look like law enforcement leaders across Western North Carolina should let loose and sing their own praises. While crime was down 1.4% statewide, it was down by a much greater percentage across this region, as much as 38.4%, the highwater mark set by Haywood County. However, most law enforcement leaders and experts caution people to pump the brakes before celebrating. Andy Hanson is a

criminal justice professor at Western Carolina University, a role he’s been in for nine years now. He said the numbers are more complicated and less reliable than they may seem on the surface. “It’s one of those things where the more I dig into it the less I feel I know,” Hanson said. But that hasn’t stopped some from making broad claims. Take the Buncombe County Sheriff ’s Office, for example. Overall crime was down about 15% between 2021 and 2022 for BCSO. Earlier this month, Sheriff Quentin Miller put out a press release touting the numbers and praising his staff for their dedication and hard work while also claiming certain new policy initiatives have had an impact. “Under Sheriff Miller, there has been a focus on arresting individuals who are doing the most harm to the community and are responsible for organizing criminal theft rings. This new enforcement strategy by the

Buncombe County Sheriff ’s Office has led to a reduction in crime,” the release reads. Meanwhile in Haywood County, some including several candidates for town office in Waynesville, have made claims about crime based on stats from various websites, stats that paint a grim yet unclear picture. But those websites use the same relatively unreliable numbers released by the NCSBI amalgamated with others that have more to do with quality of life to come up with their data. And yet those numbers — along with unproven anecdotes about busloads of houseless people being brought in from bigger cities and embellished accounts of violent crimes and public drug use — have caught the attention of voters. But while some groups try to instill fear in others based on a perceived rise in violent crimes, it’s important to note that violent crime has consistently dropped nationwide since the 1990s. The recently released NCSBI stats were provided by each agency, mostly through the

National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBERS), and in rare occasions, the older method known as the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey (UCR); NIBERS allows for more nuanced reporting, which ideally leads to a greater level of accuracy. The first step in the data compilation process for both systems requires law enforcement entities to log each incident and then send it along to the NCSBI through standardized data software. That information is then forwarded to the FBI, which uses it to determine national trends. There’s one other crime index that’s considered somewhat reliable from the Bureau of Justice Statistics. This method of determining trends in crime is called the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). While UCR numbers are somewhat reliable, their serious flaw comes from the fact that a large majority of crimes committed aren’t even reported to police. NCVS is a household survey that simply asks a slice of the population in each state whether they’ve been a victim of various types of crimes. In contrast to small national decline in overall incidents shown in violent crime data between 2021 and 2022 based on NIBERS and UCR, the NCVS shows a large increase in violent victimization over the same period. “Both of these programs grossly undercount the number of crimes,” Hanson said. “For example, NCVS doesn’t talk to children 12 and under.” An article published Oct. 18 on the Council on Criminal Justice by Richard Rosenfeld and Janet Lauritsen — renowned experts in the field — focused on violent crime. Its name: “Did Violent Crime Go Up or Down Last Year? Yes, It Did.” The article explores the differences between NIBERS and NCVS numbers. It notes that while it’s hard to draw a definitive conclusion from either system, or from the divergence between the 2022 numbers, those numbers rarely differ as much as they did last year. The article outlines a couple of possible explanations. “Police response times have increased in many cities as officer staffing levels have fallen,” it reads. “Aware of such delays, residents may have responded by reporting fewer assaults. Declining trust in, or increasing fear of, the police may have played a role as well, especially for Black victims, although according to the NCVS

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"IT CAME F THE PUMPK It was an unusually dar Halloween,, and the fe fee penetrate the oppressiv I tried to pedal my bike legs would go. Thought Halloween party haunt seemed to intensiffyy my there was no activity in nothing. Then suddenly there w gllow, ow w, but it gradually s it's just a car," I tried to in the way ay that it kept g my spine and I decided but the rapidly approac I gllanced back, I could orange ball, THE GREA pedaling my bike, but I its mouth opened to co I felt was my last breath a

Written by by Ben C. Th October 31, 1989 (H Ha a Lit. Class. Received a 16 years old. Submitt moth ther, r, E. Libby by Tho

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Suddenly I was being je were still there, and a t dazed and unsure whet brother screamed, "The Mom and Dad, you get onto my bike, pedaling of the dimly lit road th noticed the smell of pu

October 25-31, 2023

circumstances at all levels than the immediBlack victims were no less likely than White ate result of any law enforcement success or victims to report criminal victimizations to failure. the police in 2022.” “A lot of the change probably has to do “The conflicting signals from our major with recovering from COVID,” he said. statistical systems for measuring crime Wilke did lament that there are some mean we cannot conclude with confidence crimes that may be grossly underestimated whether violent crimes, other than homiby those numbers, crimes that are often hidcide, went up or down in 2022,” the article den in plain sight. later notes. “The perfect example is human traffickLike Rosenfeld and Lauritsen, Hanson ing,” he said. “We may have one or two noted that whatever the numbers are, they cases, but I guarantee there’s more of that ought to be taken with a grain of salt. While going on, and that’s a hard nut to crack. In homicide numbers are relatively reliable my time as private investigator [just prior to since there aren’t many dead bodies that his election] we were doing aren’t discovered and reportsurveillance at a truck stop, ed one way or another, some and I saw these women who things — like property crimes were there who didn’t look or especially sexual assaults like they were from here — frequently go unreported. going from truck to truck. If This explains why NCVS we have even only one or may show an increase in certwo truck stops, I don’t tain areas while UCR won’t think that’s an accurate since these surveys don’t rely reflection of the real numon people to report crimes to ber.” the police. Wilke also noted that “UCR and NCVS in the US since there aren’t many are not telling the same staffing shortages in his and story,” Hanson said, adding that that still likely Haywood County Sheriff Haywood County’s municiwouldn’t explain the masBill Wilke. File photo pal law enforcement agencies, the result of that will sive drop in Haywood still be higher numbers since that will mean County’s numbers. Hanson discussed how he reads the latest more people are being charged with crimes. “Staffing is making a difference,” he said. numbers in comparison with recent years. “We have seven in training, then we’ll be During COVID, there was a spike in certain fully staffed.” violent crimes, but those numbers have Waynesville Police Chief David Adams since leveled out. had a similar take. His department has three “They seem to be getting back to earlier officers in training, and then it will be fully pre-Covid times, and they still seem to generally reflect this downward trend we’ve seen staffed for the first time in about five years. “It’s good that we’ll have more officers,” since the 1990s,” he said. “If you look at the he said. “That means we’ll have more people 10-year trend, it seems to be getting back on to get more drugs off the street. track.” Adams’ department’s numbers are close While the statewide index is down slightto trending with the county’s, and like ly and the numbers are down by more overWilke, he said those numall in the west, the statistics bers will likely go up as from county to county are patrol officers have emphabasically all over the place. sized charging more qualiFrom 2021 to 2022, for ty-of-life crimes like tresexample, the index for passing. He also expects Macon County was down that more officers and an 6.2%, but in neighboring emphasis on DWI stops Clay County, it was down may lead to a hike in those 26.8%. Considering criminumbers. nals don’t often consider With everyone acknowlwhat county they’re in edging that the crime stats, before they commit a except for obvious trends crime, this phenomenon and homicides, aren’t neceshas led to a good deal of sarily reliable, the question head scratching. Waynesville Police Chief is, what do agencies do with While Miller touted the David Adams. WPD photo these numbers? Some use lowered index as well and the stats to ask for funding said they were indicative of from municipal, county or state governhis office’s success, Haywood County Sheriff ments, and some may use them for grants. Bill Wilke was more cautious and said he But beyond that, there isn’t much else that expects numbers will rise next year in the can be done with them. wake of the massive drop between 2021 and “A mayor or a chief of police may want to 2022. look at local trends and make geographical Wilke was only sworn in as sheriff in comparisons with other agencies,” Hanson December 2022, so the recently released said. “Maybe I want to look at the numbers numbers don’t reflect much of his time in to determine if one crime went up while office. He said he thinks the numbers, with another went down. But if you use them to rare exceptions where deputies can be more take credit when they go down, you’ll have proactive like with drug investigations, are to answer for them when they go up.” likely more of a reflection of socioeconomic

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Private school to open in Sylva BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER new independent private school is set to open in Sylva by fall of 2025, with a focus on serving gifted and talented students. “Our goal is to meet gifted and talented students’ unique needs holistically, meaning academically, socially and emotionally through personalized learning plans,” said Brianne Hudak, Founder and CEO of Journeys School. In May, the Town of Sylva Board of Commissioners received a zoning map amendment request from C and J Properties for a micro-school. Hudak requested property located at 414 Skyland Drive in Sylva, which used to be the Smoky Mountain Fitness Center, be rezoned for the private school. The board unanimously approved the change from general business district to professional business district. Now, construction and renovation are underway on the property. “Sylva is optimal because of its proximity to Western Carolina, as well as Southwestern Community College,” said Hudak. “Sylva is advancing and embracing the same mission and vision of Journeys, creating leaders and appreciating diversity.” The old Smoky Mountain Fitness Center sits on 13 acres. The school, which will serve an estimated 60 k-8 students, is designed to be biophilic, organic and nature based. It will uti-

October 25-31, 2023

lize the entire property for outdoor learning spaces and expanded learning opportunities. Hudak has worked in education for over 16 years, serving in public, private and charter schools. She has taught gifted and talented

and talented population; she works as an educational coach and consultant. Now, she is also working to develop Journeys School for the Gifted and Talented. Hudak will be the founder and head of school.

Journeys School for the Gifted and Talented, located on Skyland Drive, is set to open in the Fall of 2025. Journeys photo students in preschool through fifth grade, STEM, theater arts and global studies. She has also worked in curriculum and instruction, student activities, served as dean of students, assistant principal and k-12 school leader. Currently, Hudak is pursuing her doctoral degree in educational leadership focusing on combating underachievement in the gifted

“I became interested in gifted students when I taught them. I was really intrigued by their unique ideas and ways that they solve problems, their abilities and precocious nature in general make diving into content really meaningful and comprehensive,” Hudak said. “As an educator, I saw gaps in equity, and I really became a passionate advocate of the gifted and started supporting educators, specialists and families in the gifted community to close those equity gaps, motivate students and help gifted and talented individuals reach their full potential.” Journeys will welcome families across Western North Carolina, with applications opening Nov. 1. According to Hudak, exact tuition has yet to be determined. “We want to be affordable to families, but with our mission and vision, we want to be able to provide that exceptional education and opportunities to students, and also recruit exceptional staff,” Hudak said. The school aims to offer financial assis-

tance in order to create its goal of a sustainable, equitable, diverse, inclusive environment. In the recently passed state budget the North Carolina General Assembly expanded the Opportunity Scholarship program allowing more families to qualify for publicly funded private school vouchers. The Opportunity Scholarship program previously served mostly low-income families and some middleincome families, by providing applicants with a voucher to help pay for tuition for a private school. With the new expansion, families of all incomes are eligible for the voucher. “Now, literally any family in Western North Carolina can consider Journeys as a school of choice and get financial assistance for tuition, so it’s really advantageous,” said Hudak. The application process will require families to fill out an initial interest application, after which there is a formal application process that involves providing transcripts, academic history and other information. There will not be testing requirements, though test scores can be provided to the school as part of the application. “When we get further down the line, we’re going to allow families to tour the school, meet the staff, all as part of the application process to determine if they think that this school is a good fit,” said Hudak. “Then families will be interviewing with me ... to have a deeper conversation about what they see as their priorities or needs for their child and education and if Journeys can fit that.” Hudak plans to offer before and after school care from the outset and hopes to be able to add preschool after the first or second year of operation. As far as extracurriculars, students will get art, music, physical education, foreign language and STEM classes, once per week outside of regular education in the classroom. “I tell people, I feel like being gifted and talented is a superpower; it’s really valuable and useful in moving society forward,” said Hudak. “It’s those that think outside the box who are going to offer broader solutions to challenges we are facing in this ever-changing world.”

Smoky Mountain News

Jackson County teams up to curb drunk driving

The Governor’s Highway Safety Program identified the seven western counties as a pilot region to test new strategies to curb drunk driving. This project is being done in collaboration with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and is essentially a refresh of North Carolina’s legacy “Booze It & Lose It” program. The project entails four main components that deal with law enforcement, judicial and prosecutorial outreach, media and community involvement. With the launch of a new media campaign in Western North Carolina, the program produced drink coasters that will reinforce our new messaging. The Town of Sylva, Town of Dillsboro and Jackson County are distributing specially made coasters at licensed alcohol establishments in the area. Jackson County and many of the far western counties don’t have widely available taxi or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, and therefore don’t have a culture of “planning ahead” as larger urban communities do. Bernadette Peters, Economic Development Director for the Town of Sylva, requested a student team from Western Carolina University conduct a research project and survey to address these needs and the level of student interest in using and working for a ride-share service, as well as possible ways to recruit taxi and shuttle services. Additionally, the Western Carolina University Community Engagement office has been in conversations with the SADD organization (Students Against Destructive Decisions — formerly Students Against Drunk Driving) to possibly start a chapter on campus.

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Seven childcare centers to close in WNC BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER slew of childcare centers in the region will be closing by the end of the month, leaving the families of about 300 children with the difficult task of obtaining childcare on short notice at a time when access is limited. “As a non-profit agency, we have asked for additional funding from our government funders, and this has not been granted to us at this time,” Sheila Hoyle, executive director of Southwestern Child Development Commission, told The Smoky Mountain News. “At this time, we have no choice but to close our childcare programs.” Last week, the commission announced it would close seven childcare centers in North Carolina’s westernmost counties, effective Oct. 31. Within the Smoky Mountain News’ four-county coverage area, there are two centers affected by the decision — St. John’s Early Education and Preschool in Haywood County and Webster Early Education and Preschool in Jackson County. Five centers are closing in Cherokee, Clay and Graham counties. Combined, these childcare centers serve nearly 300 children from birth through 5 years old. Most of these families receive childcare subsidies through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

October 25-31, 2023

“Southwestern centers are currently operating in deficit,” said Hoyle. “Southwestern feels that childcare fees are as high as parents should be asked to pay. Our staff are not highly paid, and we can’t reduce staff wages. As a non-profit agency, we have asked for additional funding from our government funders and this has not been granted to us, at this time. We have used all agency resources that we have available to keep our centers open, until other funding could be received.” In a statement, Hoyle explained that Southwestern Child Care centers serve a high number of children who are eligible for North Carolina’s Subsidized Child Care Program. Because reimbursement policies from the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education are not high enough, the agency has had to supplement the state rate to keep its childcare centers open. “We no longer have adequate agency resources to supplement the state rate,” Hoyle said. “New county market rates were implemented on Oct. 1, and these rates offered only small support or improvement to the rural counties of Region A. This is a sad decision for our agency, as providing direct childcare services to the young children in Region A is at the heart and soul of our work.” The closures come just weeks after the

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North Carolina General Assembly passed the state budget. In 2021, the North Carolina childcare system received a stabilization grant through the American Rescue Plan to help keep centers open. This grant allowed them to provide tuition assistance for families as well as salaries and benefits for childcare workers. Rather than extend the North Carolina Child Care Stabilization Grant, the budget used the remaining federal funds to extend compensation grants from December 2023 to June 2024. “Without access to additional funding, more childcare centers could face closure. Unfortunately, the budget passed by the legislature did not include significant new funding for childcare,” said Ariel Ford, director of the NCDHHS Division of Child Development and Early Education. “State health officials join Governor Cooper in urging the General Assembly to make this childcare crisis a priority.” Hoyle says she sees a trend in which public policy makers, government, foundations, business operators and employers of all kinds fail to understand that “childcare is the workforce behind the workforce.” “How can our state and nation not recognize that failing to fund quality early childhood education programs will yield devastating results?” Hoyle asked. “When leaders make direct investments into early childhood programs, everybody wins. The econo-

my wins, parents win, young children who are in high quality early learning settings win.” According to Hoyle, the most severe impact on families will be the possibility of not finding another childcare placement because the supply of childcare in Western North Carolina is less than the demand. “Southwestern is currently working with our community early education providers to locate vacancies in our area’s childcare programs,” said Hoyle. “Southwestern has had a very positive response from other early childhood providers who are willing to try to re-arrange classrooms or open classrooms that have been recently temporarily closed due to staffing shortages.” Southwestern also aims to host job fairs in some areas so that childcare teachers who are losing jobs but want to continue in the childcare profession can connect with other childcare employers. “These closures are devastating to children, families and communities who rely on child care to nurture their children’s healthy development and learning, allow parents to work and support their families, and keep local businesses running,” said Ford. “Across North Carolina, we’re seeing a growing crisis of a lack of childcare access and increased financial pressures driven by the need for competitive wages and increasing supply costs.”

t c le

E e

Julia Boyd Freeman Council Member, Town of Waynesville

Smoky Mountain News

“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.

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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.

VOTE Nov. 7th

Paid for by the Friends of Julia Boyd Freeman Committee

Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation awards grants

Carolina University and Vecinos. Of the fourteen grants awarded, seven provide direct support for behavioral and mental health initiatives for the youth in the community. These grants will be utilized to fund a range of programs and services that address the unique healthcare needs of local youth. Mental health professionals, school nurses, prevention programs, foster family counseling and support for at-risk youth are just a few examples of the initiatives that will be supported through these grants. Additional grant awards included support for expanded access to healthcare and chronic disease management assistance for uninsured patients. For additional information about the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, visit HCHealthFnd.org.

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation has awarded 14 grants totaling over $1.4 million in the 2023 grant cycle. Grants were provided to AWAKE, Blue Ridge Health, Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau, Community Care Clinic of Franklin, Counseling Center of Highlands, HIGHTS, Jackson County Department of Social Services, Jackson County Public Schools, Life Challenge, Macon County Public Schools, Plateau Behavioral Health Collaborative, Summit Charter School, The Catamount School at Western

The resolution Tribal Council passed this month adds delegates from the Sgadugi Constitution Committee, which has been working on the constitution for the past six years, to the list. It is now awaiting signature from Principal Chief Michell Hicks. “This amendment is based on the dedication and commitment these three individuals have demonstrated to the development of a constitution for our tribal members,” the resolution reads. After voting to pass the resolution, Snowbird/Cherokee County Rep. Adam Wachacha suggested that a similar resolution should be submitted naming the additional Constitution Convention delegates. Attorney General Mike McConnell agreed, and Chairman Mike Parker asked McConnell to prepare such a resolution for consideration at the next Tribal Council meeting. Tammy Jackson told Tribal Council that the Community Club Council plans to meet Monday, Nov. 6, and will select its representatives at that time. The body is wondering what the timeline will be for the three branches of government to select their representatives and for a convention to be scheduled, she said. “They are trying to keep this up and keep it going, just to keep it to the forefront of the people,” she said. The tribe currently operates under a charter, a document meant to govern organizations and corporations. Constitutions define the relationship between a government and its people. Over the course of decades, tribal members have made multiple efforts to replace their charter with a constitution, but none of those efforts have yet succeeded.

VOTE

Joey Reece for Mayor Waynesville, NC

Small Town Values Common Sense Leadership Paid for by Committee to Elect Joel K. Reece

Smoky Mountain News

Club Council and from the population of young tribal members ages 18 to 25.

October 25-31, 2023

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER ribal Council has unanimously approved a resolution naming the first designated delegates to a planned Constitution Convention and expanding the list of groups to be represented there. During the Oct. 16 session of Annual Council, the Cherokee Community Club Council submitted a resolution naming Lloyd Arneach Jr., Carmaleta Monteith and Peggy Hill as delegates to the convention, which has yet to be scheduled, representing the Sgadugi Constitution Committee. A dedicated group of tribal members, which includes the three named delegates, has been working for years to develop a draft constitution and present it to tribal members for adoption in a referendum vote. They thought they’d accomplished that goal on April 6, when Tribal Council voted unanimously to place the draft constitution on the September 2023 ballot. But after the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Attorney General’s Office began to raise concerns about the unintended consequences of adopting the document as currently written, Tribal Council later voted to rescind the resolution approving the ballot measure. At the same time, it laid out a process to continue refining the proposed constitution. That resolution, passed in July, directs that one or more new Constitution Conventions be held to consider changes to the current draft, with rules and procedures to be written by a group of delegates consisting of two delegates plus one alternate from each of the three branches of government, as well as from Community

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Tribal Council approves first Constitution Convention delegates

Smoky Mountain News October 25-31, 2023

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Community Almanac

Smoky Mountain News

Rotary clubs collect food for children in need Haywood County’s three Rotary Clubs collected non-perishable food on Sept. 30 at the Canton and Waynesville Ingles locations. Store patrons were given lists of nonperishable items to consider purchasing. Haywood Rotary Club volunteers manned the Canton Ingles location, and Waynesville and Waynesville Sunrise Rotary were located at the Russ Avenue Ingles. Haywood County School buses were at both locations. By the end of the day, both buses were completely filled. George Marshall, President of Haywood Rotary and project organizer said, “I am confiMembers of the three rotary clubs in Haywood dent that there was in excess of $10,000 in County partnered with Ingles and Haywood food items on those two buses.” Schools Foundation to collect nonperishable Ron Tingle, Waynesville Rotary project coordinator, said their bus was filled and goods for food-insecure children. Donated photo even had two shopping carts donated after it left. There was a total of about 25 Rotary volunteers at the two Ingles locations. The buses were secured at the School Bus Garage and offloaded by transportation personnel at the schools’ food pantry located at the old Bethel Elementary School. Michelle Mull, a veteran of Haywood Schools social work said, “We are very thankful for the donated food. We were down to only two boxes of food for distribution for food insecure families. We feel very grateful for such a big donation of food again from Rotary. We social workers are thrilled to have full shelves for our families again”. The three local Rotary clubs collaborated on a similar food drive with Ingles in 2020. In addition, the clubs held a school supply drive in August at Walmart. “We are three separate clubs, but we share the philosophy of Service Above Self,” stated Marshall.

Lecture on Fontana resident relocation in Swain County “After the Removal” is the title of the Nov. 2 presentation by Robert Shook for the meeting of the Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society. In the 1940s, the residents of what is now the North Shore of Fontana Lake and the TuckasegeeLittle Tennessee River watersheds were notified that they had to move out because of the building of Fontana Dam. Life as it had been since the 1830s was to be buried by the backup of the Little Tennessee River, and their homes, towns, churches, schools, businesses, and industries were to be no more. The people were promised a road into their homeland for return visits and a fair price for their land. Some left early on, but many dug in their heels and stayed until the TVA forced the departure of all the residents on the North Shore. Using his own family lineage, Shook will talk about this historic event, what it was like to be one of those uprooted families who gave up everything, the impact upon their lives, where they went and what happened to them. The presentation will be delivered at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center. Conversation and refreshments will follow.

Groundbreaking for Macon County sculpture The Folk Heritage Association of Macon County (FHAMC) will be holding a groundbreaking event for the installation work to begin at the sculpture site for Sowing the Seeds of the Future. This monumental artwork will be the beginning (trailhead) of the Women’s History Trail, a project of the FHAMC. The installation of the sculpture is planned for March 2024. The sculpture was gifted to the Town of Franklin in fall 2022 and was completed by sculptor Wesley Wofford in May 2023. The event will be at 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at the site on Big Bear Lane.

Lake Junaluska’s holiday kickoff The holiday season at Lake Junaluska kicks off Thanksgiving weekend with a delicious holiday buffet, festive Christmas decorations and the annual Waynesville Sunrise Rotary Turkey Trot 5K. The Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet will be held at the lakeside Terrace Hotel Dining Room on Thursday, Nov. 23, with reservations available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu features prime rib and whole turkey carving stations with dishes from candied yams to honey lavender cornbread. The meal follows the third annual Waynesville

Sunrise Rotary Turkey Trot 5K at Lake Junaluska, which starts at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day. The course takes participants along the scenic lakeside walking trail, which is open daily to all lake visitors. Thanks to dedicated volunteers and staff members, Lake Junaluska also will be beautifully decorated for the holidays Thanksgiving weekend with lights, garland, wreaths and more. To make reservations or learn more, visit lakejunaluska.com/thanksgiving. To make lodging reservations, book online at lakejunaluska.com/accommodationsor call 800.222.4930 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Folkmoot hosts inaugural Holiday Bazaar Folkmoot USA is hosting host its first-ever “Holiday Bazaar” on Friday, Nov. 17. Inspired by the European Holiday markets, it’s the perfect way to kick off the festive season. At this event, guests will be able to shop for unique gifts made by local craftspeople and artisans. Additionally, there will be select food trucks where shoppers are encouraged to sip on hot drinks and enjoy beautiful music while mingling with folks in the community. The event will run from 3-9 p.m. and will take place at the large field beside the Folkmoot Friendship Center at 112 Virginia Ave. in Waynesville.

Franklin Chamber welcomes new business The Franklin Chamber of Commerce announced the opening of Hydr828 IV Hydration located at 12 W. Palmer St. Hydr828 offers a variety of IV Hydration and Injectable Vitamins. The store will offer supplements and IVs that can provide anything from simple hydration to an immunity boost, as well as a host of essential vitamins and minerals. Anyone interested in booking an appointment can call or text 828.634.1163 or message the business on Facebook. The business also welcomes walk-in customers.

The Community Foundation announces changes to programs The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC) announced several adjustments to its focus areas. Since 2011, CFWNC’s four priorities for spending discretionary dollars have been human services, early childhood development, food and farming and natural and cultural resources. “While these areas remain critical for a thriving Western North Carolina, much has changed in the funding landscape since we identified our original priorities for grants,” said Elizabeth Brazas, CFWNC President. “Other funders, including Dogwood Health Trust and WNC Bridge Foundation, direct grant dollars toward issues that overlap with ours. Regional funders are collaborating to minimize duplication and ensure that resources are deployed strategically.” Considering these factors and responding to survey and other responses from a wide spectrum of stakeholders via input during the strategic planning process, CFWNC will implement the following changes to its discretionary grantmaking: • First, because CFWNC addresses educational issues in multiple ways, the Foundation’s work, including scholarships, the Learning Links teacher mini-grant program, and discretionary funding, will be aggregated under a broad Education heading. Discretionary grants under this Education focus area will continue to target Early Childhood Development through the end of the current fiscal year (June 30). • Second, CFWNC will continue its emphasis on helping Western North Carolina residents meet their basic needs through the Human Services focus area, with some changes coming to this grant program next fall. • Third, Food and Farming will no longer be a stand-alone priority. CFWNC will continue to address food insecurity through Human Services grants. Finally, Natural and Cultural Resources will be separated into two focus areas, allowing CFWNC to prioritize independently these two drivers of the economy and quality of life in Western North Carolina. In the coming weeks and months, CFWNC will share specific guidelines for the focus area grant programs with nonprofit partners and its other constituents.

Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

Vote wisely for Waynesville’s future leaders T

Conservation wins big in 2023 budget To the Editor: The new 2023 state budget will pump more than $100 million annually into land and water conservation. We all owe the General Assembly, Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler, and Gov. Cooper a big thank you. North Carolina is growing fast, and this funding is absolutely essential to protect land and water for future generations. Increasing access to parks, trails, and greenways will help keep North Carolina a great place to live, work and play. Our natural resources are vital to many of the state’s most important industries, including agriculture, tourism, forestry and the military. In particular, this budget will help save many acres of working land in production by offering additional funding for our state’s farmers, ranchers, foresters and others who are stewarding their lands for the good of all. The state’s three conservation trust funds, the North Carolina Land and Water Fund (NCLWF), the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) and the Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund (ADFPTF), are essential tools that allow state agencies and nonprofit partners to protect North Carolina’s valuable natural resources. Our legislators made it clear that protecting our land and water is an essential part of being a North Carolinian. As a statewide organization, the North Carolina Land for Tomorrow Coalition brings together community leaders, conservation and wildlife organizations, and parks and recreation advocates to increase land and

level that are attempting to address the affordable housing crisis that is afflicting not just Western North Carolina but this entire nation. It’s a tough task, but some inroads are being made. Those challenging these aldermen may have some pertinent ideas, but they’ve made accusations regarding the current board that are just untrue and a bit disturbing. Among them are exaggerated claims regarding crime rates and that some unnamed group of outsiders are making decisions for the town. These claims are just not true, and if it’s indicative of how these challengers will lead, that speaks volumes.

Scott McLeod

own elections are seldom exciting, but the race in Waynesville is generating a lot of buzz. We encourage taxpayers and voters to do some reading and make informed decisions before heading to the polls. In this election you’ve got a slate of challengers who have aligned themselves as a team to directly oppose the incumbents and their record. Voters will certainly make their own choices, but as someone who follows local politics closely, I’d say there is plenty of evidence that the incumbent town board members in Waynesville — Chuck Dickson, Jon Feichter, Julia Freeman and Anthony Sutton — have tackled some tough issues, dealt with some controversial incidents and done an admirable job of leading a town that is changing before our eyes. Some have criticized how this board has reacted as new housing developments were proposed and are now being built in town limits. What many don’t realize is that a town board can’t just, on a whim, say no to a new development. If the proposal meets town zoning and planning guidelines, then it would be grounds for a lawsuit if the town turned such a proposal down. And Waynesville needs housing of all types, including rental apartments. No, it’s not affordable for everyone. Agreed. But there are several efforts at the town and county

••• I’ve written often in this space about the rise of income inequality in America and how it has left way too many people unable to afford basic necessities like health care and housing. After reading a piece in the New York Times, I just ordered a new book called “Ours Was the Shining Future: The Story of the American Dream” by David Leonhardt. Leonhardt writes a newsletter for the Times, and his thoughts about the current Editor

LETTERS water conservation in North Carolina. Each year, we work with legislators to protect and grow the conservation trust funds to ensure we all have the funds to keep our state beautiful and productive. I encourage you to learn more at land4tomorrow.org. Bill Holman Conservation Fund director and Land for Tomorrow coalition chair

It’s time to grab your hardhat To the Editor: As yellow falling leaves and cool, dry air are floating into the mountains, it signals to knowledgeable residents that it’s time to look up. The calendar reminds us to pay closer attention to what’s overhead and underfoot as we move through the hills for our own safety. It’s walnut season and you can learn a lot this time of year. All you have to do is forget once and chances are good you’ll remember to take note. The black walnut (Juglans nigra) is a stately, deciduous, nut-producing tree native to eastern U.S. forests from New York to Florida and west past the Mississippi River. These large trees can grow to more than 90 feet and have long been prized for their rich, dark wood in furniture making, gunstocks and veneers. The husks surrounding the nuts have been used to make a black dye by crafters since Native American times and are still used today. The 1.5-inch-to-2.5-inch green rough nuts form all summer and contain rich, sweet meat hidden within the hard inner shell. They

economic situation in the U.S. is dead on: “For most Americans, progress has slowed to a crawl in recent decades. Income and wealth inequality have both soared. The top 1 percent have pulled away from everyone else, while working-class Americans often struggle to afford the best health care and homes in good school districts. “The clearest sign of our problems is this statistic: In 1980, the U.S. had a typical life expectancy for an affluent country. Today, we have the lowest such life expectancy, worse than those of Britain, France, Germany, Canada, Japan or South Korea, as well as some less rich countries, like China or Chile. The main reason is the stagnation of life expectancy for working-class people.” Leonhardt suggests that organized labor was a major factor in what lifted so many Americas into the prosperity of the 1940s and 1950s that so many remember nostalgically as the best of times. But he also credits the political system and the courts for making decisions that aided the working class. He finished the book optimistic about the future:“… I want to tell you why I nonetheless emerged from writing the book with hope about the country’s future: In short, the American political system helped create today’s problems, and only the American political system can solve them.”Let’s hope he’s right. (Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com.)

are an important food for wildlife during the winter and some dedicated people take the time to clean the meat from their hard covers enjoying a tasty treat for their efforts. I give you this information so that you may recognize the tree this time of year and take precautions against gravity-driven pain and injury to yourself or your property. If you’ve ever been nailed on the noggin from a walnut from 50-feet overhead, or wobbled through a few dozen walnuts scattered across a dark driveway, you know what I’m talking about. If you haven’t, you’ve just been warned. Another thing you need to know about walnuts is how they work in collaboration with metal roofs. It’s pretty exciting. When I built my barn in the spring of 2007, the property was heavily wooded and required some clearing. I tried to be very conscious of the visual aesthetics of how the building would fit in the native landscape upon completion. I hoped to make it appear as if it had been there many years with a classic, integrated timelessness. I chose colors, materials and a basic design you would have seen 100 years ago, and when clearing the site left a large straight tree with a wide canopy in the front and another one in the rear to provide summer shade and help the building to blend in. I adjusted the size, shape and placement of the building and its doors to protect the roots of the tree in front despite the suggestions from the equipment operator. We finished installing the roof by mid-summer, completed the finish grading, cleaning and landscaping around it and stood back to admire our handiwork. It really did look much more than four months old nestled in the embracing shade of the big trees.

Each day as I walked up the drive, the barn seemed to grow more naturally into the landscape. It provided me with shelter from the summer rains, respite from a scorching sun and a place to comfortably orchestrate the madness of farm and construction projects … with electricity and refrigeration. Yahoo! As fall crept in I was standing one day in the doorway soaking up the valley view with a frosty reward for a job well done enjoying the peace and quiet of the afternoon. WHAM! … WHAM-WHAM! I jumped — “What the heck was that! Gunshots? An explosion? A logging truck backfiring?” I stepped outside to look for the cause of this Zen-busting ruckus. Standing in the drive viewing the entire the building I watched a green globe fall from the top of the tree I had painstakingly saved behind the barn. Plummeting from the heavens it hit onto the steel roof at God knows how many miles per hour with a mighty KAPOW! Then another, and another. As I stood there mesmerized, one of the three-ounce bombs fell to the ground two feet from me with a meaningful thud. I realized that the two majestic specimens gracefully arching over my new barn were black walnuts, armed and ready for combat. I watch for a few minutes when another fell and hit two more on it’s journey earthward with a triple rapid-fire report. A good stiff breeze and I would have been carpetbombed. Each year since, I have relearned where it is safe to walk and park this time of year. Unless you are incredibly lucky, I suggest you learn the walnut tree and act accordingly, or prepare to bear the pain of non-chalance in the mountains in the fall. John Beckman Cullowhee

How attitude diseases can ruin the good life

Susanna Shetley

Smoky Mountain News

many decisions we can get into instead of out of. • Doubt is the third attitude disease. Doubt is like a plague that infiltrates your mind and ability to make decisions, and the worst kind of doubt is self-doubt. Rohn tells us to turn the coin over and become a believer. Believe in others, believe in hope, believe things will work out, and most importantly, believe in yourself. The understanding of self-worth is the beginning of progress. • Worry is the next attitude disease. Worrying too much will drop you to your knees. It can even lead to physical illness. It’s such a pointless waste of time because usually we’re worried about a story conjured up in our own minds which almost always doesn’t happen. Rohn says to get the monkey off the back. Who needs it? It’s not an easy thing to give up but it’s possible with work and mindset shifts. • The fifth attitude disease is overcaution. This is called the timid approach to life, when you’re always thinking. “But, what if this happens?” or “What if that happens?” In actuality, it’s all risky. Being alive is risky so why not go into everything with confidence and gusto. Rohn points out that being cautious can sometimes backfire. He gives the example of investing. If we think it’s risky to invest in the stock market, think about what happens if we don’t invest at all. • Pessimism is the sixth attitude disease and is when we’re always looking on the bad side, the scary side, the negative side. A pessimist doesn’t look for virtue. He looks for faults and when he finds them, he’s delighted. Always looking for why something won’t work is an exhausting, low frequency way to live and is not a path to success. • The final attitude disease is complaining — crying, whining, griping. All of that will destroy your future. Spend five minutes complaining and you’ve wasted five minutes of your life. Rohn says if we indulge in complaining long enough, our futures will be canceled. Additionally, stay away from complainers or politely ask them to stop complaining about everything. It will improve their lives as well. So, how do you build a good life? How do you build anything? You get the right materials or ingredients. You follow a plan or recipe with an end goal in mind. You check in on your progress consistently. Finally, you work on healing your attitude diseases. It’s really that simple. Each day we stand guard at the door of our minds. We decide what goes into our mental factories. Be a good gatekeeper and build a life you love. (Susanna Shetley is a writer, editor and digital media specialist. susanna.b@smokymountainnews.com.)

October 25-31, 2023

y last newspaper column talked of Thomas Aquinas’s four idols — money, power, pleasure and fame, and how they not only play a part in our everyday lives but also in wars and political unrest. People seek idols with a false hope that they will bring joy or a feeling of satisfaction, but the closer someone gets to an idol the more unhappy and separated they feel from others, the divine and their own souls. Similar to idols is something called “attitude diseases.” I recently listened to a podcast episode featuring Jim Rohn’s famous Columnist talk on this concept. If you’re unfamiliar with Jim Rohn, he was a popular influential thinker and motivational speaker starting in the early 1960s and continuing over four decades. The episode is a recording of one of his speeches where he digs into the seven attitude diseases. The more we become aware of our own limiting behaviors and mindsets, the easier it will be to shed them and lean into the highest versions of ourselves. We all know that our physical bodies can develop diseases and illnesses. There’s a wealth of information, services, practitioners and treatments for ailments such as heart disease, various viruses, infections, diabetes and even certain types of cancer. What we don’t spend enough time thinking about or researching or discussing are the diseases of our attitudes, and it’s these types of diseases that lead to devastating personal, relational and professional outcomes. • The first attitude disease is indifference — shrugging the shoulders and having no opinion on any matter. It’s the guy who always says, “Who cares?” or “What’s the point in getting all worked up?” The problem is you can’t climb a mountain by drifting. As Rohn says, lukewarm is a sad way to live. Pick a direction and put everything you’ve got into everything you do. If it’s the wrong direction, you’ll know pretty immediately. If it’s the right direction, you’ll feel motivated to keep going. He says the next best thing to prosperity is adversity. We all do better for one of two reasons — inspiration or desperation. • The second attitude disease is indecision or mental paralysis. When you can never make up your mind it can be debilitating. Any decision is better than indecision. If it’s the wrong decision, you’ll find out quickly and pivot. Rohn suggests a life full of adventure because a life robust with adventure is full of many decisions. The ones that end up being wrong decisions will teach you a lot. He encourages us to see how

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & E NTERTAINMENT E DITOR f there ever was a common denominator of the upper echelon of rock-n-roll royalty, it would be Chuck Leavell. A legendary keyboardist, Leavell was a member of the Allman Brothers Band during its commercial pinnacle in the 1970s and has been the musical director of the Rolling Stones since 1982, as well as storied stints with David Gilmour, Eric Clapton, George Harrison and The Black Crowes, among countless others. “The truth is — what else are we going to do?” the 71-year-old Leavell chuckled. “This is what we do. It’s food to us, to be able to work, to play, whether it’s in the studio or in-person onstage — it’s inevitable that we do it as long as we reasonably can.” A performer since he was a teenager, Leavell has always sought after an ideal balance between standing in the spotlight and standing in the depths of Mother Nature. A renowned arborist and conservationist who resides on a 2,500-acree tree farm near Macon, Georgia, Leavell is also the host of the lauded PBS program “America’s Forests with Chuck Leavell.” “You see the fires in Maui, fires up in

A&E

Smoky Mountain News

Rock icon Chuck Leavell will play Highlands Nov. 11. Donated photo

Crossroads seem to come and go A conversation with Chuck Leavell Canada, flooding up the [East Coast]. [With the show], we’re hammering home that this is reality,” Leavell noted. “Whether or not people grasp that or whether they care enough to, [we need] to get rules and regulations in order to not burn this spinning ball up — the next generation are the ones that can really save the planet.” Speaking with The Smoky Mountain News from his farm, dubbed the Charlane Plantation, Leavell is an unrelenting renaissance man in a modern society seemingly gone mad — a world of today where he genuinely holds out hope for a better tomorrow. Smoky Mountain News: Do you remain optimistic about our world? Chuck Leavell: I think you have to [be]. If it’s doom and gloom, then nothing gets done and you just throw your hands up. I am optimistic. I think [it] largely depends on the coming generation. SMN: The bands you’ve been part of — Allmans, Stones — one thing they have in common is a thick thread of the blues, which plays into why the music endues — the blues gets better with age, you grow with it. CL: I couldn’t have said it better myself.

You’re absolutely right. There’s something about the genre that is timeless. What songs have stood the test of time, what songs are out now that will stand the test of time. I mean, those are open questions, but certainly not the ones that are still standing the test of time. You know, the [Allman Brothers 1973 album] “Brothers and Sisters” just celebrated 50 years. It’s still viable and you still hear it on the radio. And that applies, of course, to the Stones early recordings. The thread is the blues. There’s no doubt about it. It’s a classic form of music. It’s something we all revere and appreciate. It’s been a part of my life ever since I started playing. SMN: It’s one of those things where the blues is deceptively simple. On the surface, it might come across as simple, but it’s actually quite intricate and with unknown depths. CL: Absolutely. And then, the spiritual feeling of it. The blues can be happy. The blues can be sad. But, either way, it’s a deep, almost spiritual feeling — when you’re playing it and when people listen to it. SMN: When you look back at that “Brothers and Sisters” chapter of your life

and playing with the Allman Brothers, what really sticks out? CL: Well, bear in mind, I was 21 years old in 1973 when the record came out. I was just incredibly grateful to have the position at that age. It’s not something, quite frankly, that I expected. But, maybe something that I was preparing for without being all that conscious about it. I had loved music for a long time, even at that age. And to have the opportunity was just paramount. To play with an established band that had a unique sound and already had a strong following, but that following got bigger and bigger during that era? It’s just gratitude that [the album has] stood the test of time, that people still like to listen to that record. SMN: And you’re also celebrating 50 years of marriage, too. CL: Yes, we just passed that in June. It’s quite a milestone and we’re very happy to have sustained this, very happy together. We feel blessed. And we’re also going to celebrate [my wife] Rose Lane’s 75th birthday this year. SMN: Well, I was wondering if you had thought about the idea of love and how the definition of that word in those 50 years has either remained the same or changed for you? CL: I think love is something that is developed over time. People fall in love and they get married. Sometimes it doesn’t work out and there’s a change of pace. But, in our case, the love has grown all these 50 years. We have more fun now that we had when we were in our 20s. We enjoy each other’s company more than we did back then. It’s a different phase of life [now]. You’re not going to be doing the same thing in your 70s as you did in your 20s. But, that’s what I mean about the growth factor. You find other things in love that turn you on, that make you happy. And, for us, our growing family, the grandchildren are certainly a part of that love and that growth. We count our blessings each and every day — it’s been a remarkable trip. Did I think we would reach this milestone? You know, I kind of always thought we would. For some reason, I felt, “Hey, you know, I think we have the wherewithal to make it” — and we have.

Want to go? The annual Highlands Food & Wine festival will take place Nov. 9-12 at various venues around the town. Alongside a slew of culinary tastings, demonstrations and gatherings, there will be live music performed by marquee acts such as Chuck Leavell, Grace Potter, The War & Treaty, Katie Pruitt, End Of The Line, Southern Avenue and more. For more information, a full schedule of events and/or to purchase tickets, go to highlandsfoodandwine.com

HOT PICKS BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

‘And I thought that I’d found a light to guide me through’

Lake Champlain buffers New York, Vermont and Quebec. Garret K. Woodward photo

A special presentation of the iconic play “Death of a Salesman” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26-28 and 2 p.m. Oct. 29 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

The Smoky Mountain Roller Girls will host its “Nightmare On Deep Creek” match against Chattanooga Roller Derby on Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Swain County Recreation Center in Bryson City.

The Blue Ridge Orchestra ushers in the new season with a Halloween-themed concert held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, in the Charles Beall Auditorium at Haywood Community College in Clyde.

A regional Americana/bluegrass act, Granny’s Mason Jar will perform at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at Mountain Layer Brewing in Bryson City.

love how much they mean to you, to be well-aware of moments together, to take mental snapshots of where you were and who you were with — to remember with gratitude how it felt to be there. Truth-be-told, the grief of loss doesn’t go away. But, you eventually learn to not carry its weight, where you find yourself walking alongside it instead. Grief and what led to the grief will never really make sense to you and yours. Someday though, you will find solace in putting to rest your whirlwind of feelings, emotions and thoughts. Solace found through the profound appreciation of things like the fall foliage, of squawking crows in your front yard and passerby cars to destinations unknown. Of stopping in your tracks, if but for a moment, to look upwards into the heavens, knowing damn well of the beautiful faces of our past that reside somewhere out there in the great beyond. It’s all beautiful and tragic, this thing called life. It’s all what you make of it, come hell or high water. It’s all organized chaos and spells of glorious silence. It’s all we have and it’s all there ever was, all there ever will be. Hold steady and remember that true courage reveals itself in our darkest hour — for that’s where your inner light shines brightest.

Wine i Port Beer Cigars Champagne Gifts Areas Best Wine Selection

RETAIL WIINE NE TA ASTINGS STINGS & WIINE NE DIINNERS NNERS DOWNTOWN WAYNE Y SVILLE

EVENTS

Celtic Sunday ys W/The / e Carter Giege gerich c Trioo - 2-55 pm Incredible Celtic Folk - Every Sunday Relaxation along with your Guinness! n

Thursday October 26th Andrew Rickman 8pm- 10pm Classic Rock - Outlaw Country

Friday October 27 2 th Adamas Entertainment Presentst Spiro Nicolopoulos Blues Apocalyp y se BLUES NIGHT - 8pm - 11pm

Saturday October 28th Celtic Road Jam • 4pm-6pm

TUESDA AY Y , O C T . 3 1 ST HALLOWEEN TRIVIA

Smoky Mountain News

working class and damn proud of it, too. Summers spent swimming in the lake and playing in the woods, either on foot or via ATVs. Winters of ice fishing, hockey and snowmobiling. Hunting year-round, too. And I think of those I’ve loved and cherished along my own respective journey that have taken their lives. Faces still vivid in memory. Like those in Chazy, I don’t have any answers or solutions to why these unimaginable tragedies occur — what more could be done, if anything at all? Being blindsided by the untimely passing of the young and the young-at-heart is, sadly, something every single one of us has experienced or will experience at some juncture. What I can say is that it’s never been lost on me to always (always) tell those you

October 25-31, 2023

soothing mid-fall breeze floats across my front porch, through the screen door and into the apartment, ultimately swirling around the writing desk facing a bustling Russ Avenue within sight. Lazy Sunday afternoon. Waynesville. I awoke late in the morning, only to finally finagle my old stereo system, coaxing it back to life by the second cup of coffee, the sounds of David Crosby’s seminal 1971 album “If I Could Remember My Name” on the record player, the melody “Laughing” echoing from the speaker and back out the screen door. The fallen leaves from the maple tree in the front yard are bright yellow, orange and red. The yard to covered with a canopy of the third season of the natural cycle of Mother Nature. The favorite season of yours truly. Black crows squawking high up in the branches outside the window of the humble abode. October sunshine sprinkling through what’s left of the leaves on the old maple. Bluebird skies and nothing do but let the fingertips roll across the keyboard with a slight ease found in the depths of inspiration from whatever may spark creative thought from the unknown ether. I think of a favorite Kerouac line from his 1957 novel “On the Road”: “The bus roared on. I was going home in October. Everyone goes home in October.” I remember my mid-20s, bouncing coast-to-coast in search of stability in the realm of the written word. And I remember sending out a postcard from Arizona to my mother back up in the North Country with that exact Kerouac line. Door-to-door, it’s about 1,000 miles from Waynesville to my folks’ farmhouse in Plattsburgh, New York. The Champlain Valley of Clinton County. The greater North Country of Upstate New York and Vermont. Split in half by the mighty Lake Champlain. Quebec and the vastness of the Canadian wilderness just above the nearby international border. Though my field-of-vision at the moment is focused on hauntingly beautiful dead leaves and the crisp air outside of an impending winter, one of much-needed solitude and introspective pondering, I can’t help but let the mind wander to matters of the heart back up at home. I received a message from a former high school classmate of mine. We graduated together in 2003. Friends since middle school, teammates on the track team from then all the way through high school. Still keep in touch. He said, “Any chance you can

write something nice for the Chazy kid? Small town Chazy needs a good vibe from the best writer I know.” To be blunt, a 15-year-old from the tiny, tightly-knit community of Chazy, New York, took his own life this past week. A tragedy beyond measure. So little time on this earth for the beloved teenager. So much left to say and do, countless memories and moments yet to appear in real time and place now erased from the continuous universe. I find myself circling back to another Kerouac adage, “I have nothing to offer anybody, expect my own confusion.” Why must this sadness and heartbreak rear its ugly head? And why do bad things happen to good people? You can drive yourself into madness overanalyzing the parameters of the human condition, actions and reactions to things we think, say and ultimate do — an existential crisis of sorts on an otherwise lazy Sunday. Gaze out the window onto the bright leaves and squawking crows, the sunshine that makes one person smile, the same cascading rays of light unable to break through the infinite sadness of another. Chazy is a place close to my heart-ofhearts. Families and friends that reside at the deepest of roots within my vibrant soul. It’s a town of farm fields and highly-competitive youth soccer teams. Blue-collar

Hosted by the Haywood County Arts Council, the annual Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival will return from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

Halloween-themed Trivia Costume Contest • Prizes

ScotsmanPublic.ccom • 37 CHURCH STREET • DOWNTOWN WAYNESVILLEE @th @thescotsmanwaynesville t ille M-Th:4PM-12AM Fri-Sat:12PM-12AM Sun:11 1 AM-12AM

October 25-31, 2023

arts & entertainment

On the beat Andrew Wakefield will play Maggie Valley Oct. 28. File photo

Indie, folk at Meadowlark Singer-songwriter Andrew Wakefield will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, in The Speakeasy at the Meadowlark Motel in Maggie Valley. Wakefield is an Asheville artist with an extensive and eclectic catalog of compositions ranging from guitar-driven bluegrass to folk, old-time, newgrass, rock, Americana, and more. Boasting an exceptional knack for song-craft and a boundless passion for the guitar, Wakefield has fast become a local fixture, while word of his talent continues to spread throughout the Southeast and beyond. Wakefield is also a contributing member of The Well Drinkers and a former member of Supper Break and Cynefin. Career highlights include appearing at Merlefest, performing with Molly Tuttle and Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show, members of Billy Strings, Town Mountain, Fireside Collective, Songs From the Road Band, Jon Stickley Trio, Larry Keel & Natural Bridge, George Clinton and Jeff Sipe, among others. The show is free and open to the public. For more information, go to meadowlarkmotel.com or 828.926.1717.

Rock rolls into Unplugged Pub

Granny’s Mason Jar will play Bryson City Oct. 27. File photo

• Altered Frequencies (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.342.8014 or alteredfrequencies.net. • Angry Elk Brewing (Whittier) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows are free and open to the public. 828.497.1015 or facebook.com/angryelkbrewingco. • 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.

Mountain Layers goes Americana A regional Americana/bluegrass act, Granny’s Mason Jar will perform at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at Mountain Layer Brewing in Bryson City. Following in the footsteps of Doc Watson, Norman Blake, Clarence White and Tony Rice, Granny’s Mason Jar brings together the talents of Jared “Blue” Smith (The Blue Revue, Bluegrass Lumber Company) and Aaron Plantenberg (Commonfolk, Big House Radio) to continue the tradition of flatpicking, travis picking and other traditional acoustic guitar styles. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 828.538.0115 or go to mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

HCC fall concert

• 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.

ALSO:

• Blue Stage (Andrews) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.361.2534 or gm@thebluestage.com. • Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host music bingo 7 p.m. Mondays, karaoke at 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays, trivia at 7 p.m., Carolina Drifters Oct. 28 and Arnold Hill (rock/jam) Nov. 4. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.246.0350 or boojumbrewing.com. • Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to coweeschool.org/music. • Currahee Brewing (Franklin) will host “Music Bingo” 7 p.m. Thursdays and semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.634.0078 or curraheebrew.com.

Smoky Mountain News

• Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Fireside at the Farm” sessions on select weekends. For more information, go to oldedwardshospitality.com.

Outlaw Whiskey will play Bryson City Oct. 27. Garret K. Woodward photo

Haywood County rock/country act Outlaw Whiskey will hit the stage at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at the Unplugged Pub in Bryson City. Formed in Haywood County seven years ago, Outlaw Whiskey has emerged as a popular band in Western North Carolina and greater Southern Appalachia. A blend of original country and rock songwriting amid a bevy of cover tunes from the likes of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and other marquee acts, the essence of the group is musicianship and fellowship. In March, Outlaw Whiskey was recognized as “Band of the Year” (New Country: 50 & Over Category) by the North America Country Music Association, Int’l (NACMAI). The ensemble accepted its honor at the NACMAI award show at the Country Tonite Theatre in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.” 22 Admission is $5 at the door. 828.538.2488.

The Blue Ridge Orchestra ushers in the new season with a Halloween-themed concert held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, in the Charles Beall Auditorium at Haywood Community College in Clyde. The event will feature “The WellTempered Wizard” concert, which includes music from Bach, Mozart and more. All proceeds from ticket sales will support the Haywood Strong scholarship, providing scholarships to displaced millworkers and their families. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for students. Free admission for children under age five. Costumes are welcome. To purchase tickets, visit haywood.edu/orchestra.

• 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. • Fontana Village Resort Wildwood Grill will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 800.849.2258 or fontanavillage.com. • Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host its weekly “Tuesday Jazz Series” at 5:30 p.m., Tricia Ann Band (country/rock) 6 p.m. Oct. 27, Muddier Guthrie 6 p.m. Oct. 28, Rene Russell (singer-songwriter) 4 p.m. Oct. 29 and Seth & Sara (Americana) 6 p.m. Nov. 3. Free and open to the public.

On the beat 828.454.5664 or froglevelbrewing.com. • 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 St. littletennessee.org or 828.369.8488. • Happ’s Place (Glenville) will host Blue Jazz Band Oct. 27, Rock Holler Oct. 28, Doug Ramsey (singer-songwriter) Nov. 3 and A Fiddler & A Picker (Americana) Nov. 4. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. happsplace.com or 828.742.5700. • Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host Buddy Guy (blues/rock) 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28. 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. • Highlands Performing Arts Center will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. For tickets, go to highlandsperformingarts.com.

• 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. • 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.

• Lineside at Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Ajeva (rock/jam) & Buddhagraph Spaceship (rock/jam) Nov. 10. 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., Smoky Blue Rain (rock/folk) Oct. 27, Andrew Wakefield (singersongwriter) Oct. 28 and Adrianne Blanks & The Oracles Nov. 3. All shows begin at 7 p.m.

• 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.

Appalachian Roadshow will play Maggie Valley Oct. 28. File photo • Orchard Coffee (Waynesville) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. 828.246.9264 or orchardcoffeeroasters.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. • Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.369.6796. • Salty’s Dogs Seafood & Grill (Maggie Valley) will host “Karaoke w/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 What The Cat Dragged In (drag show) Oct. 29 and Keturah & Bradford (Americana) Nov. 5. All shows begin at 3 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.631.3075 or facebook.com/thewinebarandcellar.

ALSO:

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.482.9794 or satulahmountainbrewing.com. • Sauced (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9585 or saucedwnc.com. • The Scotsman (Waynesville) will host a “Celtic Jam” 2-5 p.m. Sundays, Andrew Rickman (country/rock) Oct. 26, Spiro Nicolopoulous (blues/rock) Oct. 27, Celtic Road Jam 4 p.m. Oct. 28, Alma Russ (Americana/folk) Nov. 2 and Ginny McAfee & Rory Kelly (Americana/blues) Nov. 3. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 or scotsmanpublic.com. • SlopeSide Tavern (Sapphire) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free

Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival Hosted by the Haywood County Arts Council, the annual Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival will return from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. Taking the stage will be Haywood County bluegrass legends Balsam Range, Appalachian Roadshow and Wildfire. Since its inception in 2007, Balsam Range has become one of the most decorated and award-winning acts in the wide world of bluegrass music. The band has taken home the following International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) honors: “Entertainer of the Year” (2014, 2018), “Album of the Year” (2013, 2017), “Song of the Year” (2011, 2015) and

“Vocal Group of the Year” (2014, 2015), with Melton named “Male Vocalist of the Year” (2014, 2018) and Tim Surrett “Bass Player of the Year” (2018). The annual HCAC fundraiser, the festival brings all the organization’s programs and artists together for a truly one-of-akind music-themed experience. The event will also include music-themed vendors, raffles, artist member demonstrations/artwork, a child and adult playground and local food/drinks. Advance tickets are $55 per person. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to haywoodarts.org or call 828.452.0593.

and open to the public. 828.743.8655 or slopesidetavern.com.

Band ($5 cover) Oct. 28. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.538.2488.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) 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, go to smokymountainarts.com or 828.524.1598. • 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. • The Ugly Dog Pub (Cashiers) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. 828.743.3000 or theuglydogpub.com.

• Valley Cigar & Wine Co. (Waynesville) will host Second Chance (Americana) 6 p.m. Oct. 27. 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. • 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.

• The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host “Bluegrass Wednesday” at 6:30 p.m. each week. 828.526.8364 or theuglydogpub.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.

• Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host Cliff Williamson (singer-songwriter) Oct. 25, Mountain Gypsy (Americana) Oct. 26, Outlaw Whiskey ($5 cover) Oct. 27 and Tricia Ann

• Yonder Community Market (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to eatrealfoodinc.com.

Smoky Mountain News

• 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.

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host an “Open Mic w/Frank Lee” Wednesdays, Granny’s Mason Jar (Americana) Oct. 27, Ron Neill (singer-songwriter) Oct. 28 and Terry Haughton (singer-songwriter) 5 p.m. Oct. 29. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 or mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

October 25-31, 2023

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will host “Trivia Night w/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.

unless otherwise noted. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to meadowlarkmotel.com or 828.926.1717.

arts & entertainment

On the wall WNC Pottery Festival The 18th annual WNC Pottery Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, in Bridge Park in Sylva. Showcasing the work of more than 40 master potters from an array of states. A variety of clay art styles will be presented with over 40 master potters. The event is juried, and the lineup of potters are some of the finest in their craft. The event has been named one of the “Top 20” events in the Southeast for November. Admission is $5. Children under 12 are free. For more information, go to wncpotteryfestival.com.

Creating Community Workshop

Pottery is a longtime WNC tradition. File photo

Library to showcase Macon art

Smoky Mountain News

October 25-31, 2023

Local artwork is now on display at the Macon Library. Donated photo

Members of the Macon County Art Association’s Uptown Gallery are exhibiting artwork through Oct. 31 at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. The showcase will display a variety of mediums, styles and themes. Library hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Hours for the exhibition may vary due to activities in the Meeting Room, therefore it is recommended that the library be called at 828.524.3600 to ensure the room is open. For more information and/or to purchase a piece, call the Uptown Gallery at 828.349.4607.

The monthly “Creating Community Workshop” will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, in the Atrium of the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. Participants will join local artist Maureen Hydaker to create beautiful satin cord bracelets using the Japanese art of Kumikimo. Kumikimo takes strands of cord and creates a braid that is beautiful and a great foundation for adding beads and charms of focal pieces, creating one-of-a-kind designs. Hydaker has been a Bead Artist for 36 years, collecting semi-precious and glass beads from the gem and mineral shows that exhibit in Franklin every summer. The class is for ages 16 and over. To register, call the library at 828.586.2016 or email jcpl-adults@fontanalib.org.

• Friends of the Greenway will host its annual arts and crafts fundraising event, FROG Fair, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at FROG Quarters, located at 573 East Main St. in Franklin. Live music and food vendors will be onsite. For more information, email frog28734@gmail.com or go to littletennessee.org. • “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 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 the enjoyment of photography and the improvement of one’s skills. They welcome photographers of all skill levels to share

Registration is required. This event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson County Public Library. The Jackson County Public Library is a member of Fontana Regional Library (fontanalib.org).

Waynesville art walk, live music A cherished gathering of locals and visitors alike, “Art After Dark” will take place from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, in downtown Waynesville. Each first Friday of the month (MayDecember), 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 local residents and visitors alike. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to downtownwaynesville.com.

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 St. 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.

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• 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 stage

A special presentation of the iconic play “Death of a Salesman” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26-28 and 2 p.m. Oct. 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. “Death of a

‘Death of a Salesman’ will run through October.

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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 25-31, 2023

• “The Wizard of Oz” will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Oct. 27-28 and Nov. 3-4, 10-11 at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score and characters from the classic MGM film. The show is a full two-act production presented by the Overlook Theatre Company. Tickets are $18 for adults, $13 for students. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to smokymountainarts.com or 828.524.1598.

‘Kids at HART’ presents ‘Willy Wonka Jr.’

Smoky Mountain News

A special presentation of “Willy Wonka Jr.” will be ‘Willy Wonka Jr.’ will run o showcased by “Kids at HART” at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. through October. Oct. 28 and 1 p.m. Oct. 29 at the Haywood Arts Donated photo Regional Theatre in Waynesville. Based on Roald Dahl’s timeless masterpiece, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Willy Wonka Jr.” captures the essence of childhood dreams and the magic of Willy Wonka’s extraordinary chocolate factory. Audiences will be transported into a world where chocolate rivers flow and everlasting gobstoppers exist, all while the Oompa Loompas add a touch of whimsy to every scene. Join Charlie Bucket and a colorful cast of characters as they journey through the eccentric Willy Wonka’s world of confectionary marvels. From the iconic golden tickets to the mischievous antics of Augustus Gloop, Violet Beauregarde, Veruca Salt, Mike Teavee and the heartwarming Grandpa Joe, “Willy Wonka Jr.” is a spellbinding adventure that celebrates the power of imagination and the importance of kindness. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students. 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.

arts & entertainment

On the street

‘Nightmare On Deep Creek’ The Smoky Mountain Roller Girls will host its “Nightmare On Deep Creek” match against Chattanooga Roller Derby on Saturday, Oct. 28, at the Swain County Recreation Center in Bryson City. The team is an amateur women’s athletic

The Smoky Mountain Roller Girls. File photo

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roller derby league that aims to provide an outlet for fun, fitness and camaraderie among its members and develop athletic ability and teamwork. SMRG endeavors to give back to the community that supports them through community building initiatives and charitable donations of time and activity. Doors open at 2 p.m. with the first whistle at 3 p.m. Tickets are $5 presale or $8 at the door (cash or Venmo accepted). Kids ages 11 and under are free. As well, are you interested in becoming a skater, referee or non-skating official? SMRG has open practices. No experience necessary. Bring your own chair. For more information, go to facebook.com/smokymountainrollergirls.

• H&H Haunted Corn Maze will be held from 7:30-11 p.m. Oct. 27-28 at H&H Farms, located at 4402 Murphy Road in Franklin. For more information, search “H&H Farmstand” on Facebook.

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 admission), enjoy a hayride ($18 admission), partake in an array of Halloween activities and/or visit the huge six-acre pumpkin patch, where you and your family choose your perfect Jack O’ Lantern. Prices vary by size. There will also be food trucks, farm

Darnell Farms is a popular destination in WNC. File photo stands, apples and fall decor onsite. For more information, go to darnellfarms.com.

On the table • “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.

Cherokee Bonfire & Storytelling

• “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.

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.

• “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.

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On the shelf

Thomas Crowe

“T’is the lot of our age. Gotta keep that yard neat and trimmed. To do otherwise would be to attract snakes — or timeshare salesmen.” Growing up with only one channel on the TV, Buchanan’s time was spent mostly outdoors, which included camping with family and friends or with his Cub Scout cronies: “There was a tale of a group of Cub Scouts whose adult leader was a bit careless in picking a campsite. The group was never heard

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from again. It’s assumed they were entirely consumed. Kudzilla came in the night, leaving only Cubzu behind.” And he goes on to exclaim: “You can fight nature, but nature is nothing if not persistent, and when it puts its tiny kudzu mind to it, it’s going to win.” Then Buchanan goes on to talk about gardens: “There are a lot of great tales about mountain people and their gardens, such as tales of old men sitting up all night in a patch of woods next to a field with shotgun shells filled with salt to teach a watermelon thief a lesson.” Or ... if your lost in the woods, Buchanan has this advice: “If you’re lost in the woods, just wait for a possum to come by. Possums are experts at getting lost hikers back to civilization. Just follow him. Sooner or later he’ll lead you to a road.” And then there are the snakes. Which is pretty much told simply with the chapter’s title

“Snakes Don’t Take Off For Labor Day.” Ah ... then we come to the section on “Mountain Characters.” And herein lie some of most telling and humorous tales. Buchanan begins the section with a story about his grandma: “I was a wee lad when Grandma passed, but I remember her fondly and have been told by several people that I inherited her sense of humor — an ability to laugh at pretty much anything. That’s a dandy trait to have these days. Have you seen the news lately? Go look. I’ll wait.” He goes on in this section to talk about “intense thunderstorms that old folks used to describe as the mountain dwarves bowling back in the hollows.” Or partyline crank telephones and the time his Daddy “headed off to Caney Fork one time too many when everyone else headed to the Nantahala Gorge.” And about mailboxes: “It turns out the mailing comes from some faraway person or organization that likely couldn’t tell the difference between Tuckaseigee and Turtle Wax.” The last section speaks to the subject of rail-splitting, wild onions, plowing steep hillsides, ham as a major food source, ramps (“those stinky life-reviving bulbs”), canning and “puttin’ food by.” Or as Buchanan describes it: “It’s no wonder Mother never had a chance to get heavy. It’s a wonder that she didn’t simply evaporate at some point from the heat in the kitchen.” And Buchanan isn’t averse to making fun of himself: “I couldn’t pour water out of a boot if the directions were on the heel.” And did I mention that there is a plethora of great photos in this book that Buchanan has unearthed from back in the day and past generations? All of the above and much more await you in one of the most enjoyable reads that I’ve had the pleasure to peruse this year. (Thomas Crowe is a regular contributor to The Smoky Mountain News and author of the multi-award-winning nonfiction nature memoir “Zoro’s Field: My Life in the Appalachian Woods.”)

October 25-31, 2023

f you’re looking for a fun, yet informative read, then I’ve got one for you. Jim Buchanan’s “Historic Tales of Sylva and Jackson County” (The History Press, 2020, 125pgs). With a photo of the Main Street of Sylva circa 1920 on the cover, inside are tales from logging camps, fields, gardens and lonesome game trails and stories of challenges faced with a unique sense of mountain humor. A native of Jackson County and local columnist for the Sylva Herald newspaper, Jim Buchanan tells tales of bear hunts, cool springs and creatures great and small. With a professional Writer blend of sarcasm and a personal sense of humor, Buchanan opens up both barrels of his “land rich and dirt poor” mountain heritage and experience to define for the reader what it means to be “from here.” In a book divided into four sections: “AHunting We Will Go”; “A Walk Among the Flora and Fauna — but Mostly Snakes”; “Mountain Character, Mountain Characters”; “Moving Through the Year,” Buchanan combines memoir with local history that reads almost like listening to a seasoned Southern Appalachian storyteller with strains of standup comedy, so clever is his wit and factual memory. Right from the get-go in first section, we’re introduced to Buchanan’s father and his pickup truck and Plott hounds out in the back woods tracking bear. Here the section titles almost tell the story: “The Plott Thickens,” “Once, Bullets Weren’t Things to Waste,” “The Tracking Gift Was Something to Behold,” “The Tale of the Interstate Sandwich.” A section that, as Buchanan writes, “takes readers back to the day of hard times and hard people — a time when no self-respecting barn went unadorned with a bearskin or at least a couple of coonskins, fruit of the Plotts’ labor.” Then he goes on to personalize the scenerio: “When I was a wee lad, we had plenty of snow, and that’s where I learned my tracking. As it turns out, any fool can follow a track in snow, and I got accustomed to doing so to the point that when there wasn’t snow, I was essentially useless.” He then continues to describe the spoils of the hunt: “In my view, the whole thing about bear meat came down to the grease; if that wasn’t treated to tamp down the wild taste, either through a marinade or cooking technique, you’d have a meal that was gamey to the point that you’d think it might fight its way out of your mouth and escape back to the woods.” In section 2, Buchanan begins with a harrangue about mountain property and lawns:

arts & entertainment

Local tales are well told in this book

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Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

Beyond the fence line

commercial and residential, but we also owe an obligation to learn from the mistakes in our past, to make sure that it is environmentally sound and respectful. We see the [Pigeon] River as a huge economic booster into our future. And so before we start really doing that, we’ve got to make sure it’s safe and sound.”

PAST THE FENCE LINE

Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers leads University of North Carolina Chapel Hill faculty and administrators on a tour of Canton Oct. 19. Holly Kays photo

Research to test for contamination near Canton mill property BY HOLLY KAYS OUTDOORS E DITOR research project aiming to understand contamination levels outside the fence line of the now-shuttered Canton paper mill is likely to draw more than a quarter-million dollars in state funding to test soil, water and air samples nearby. “Right now, we don’t know what we’re going to find,” said Jeffrey Warren, executive director of the N.C. Collaboratory headquartered at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. “I think this is like the Forrest Gump box of chocolates — ‘you never know what you’re gonna get.’” To start, the project plan will likely extend 18-24 months, he said, but the effort may ultimately last longer than that — closer to 36 months. The Collaboratory, which is planning the project in partnership with the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, anticipates investing something like $250,000 to $500,000 over time.

CHARTING THE FUTURE Warren made the announcement during an Oct. 26 luncheon at The Grateful Table in Canton, attended by more than 40 UNC faculty and administrators amid a three-day tour of the state’s western half. This year’s Tar Heels Bus Tour offered two routes, one heading east and the other west from Chapel Hill, making a combined 21 stops in 19 counties. Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers, who learned about the project for the first time that day, said he’s hopeful for what the “legitimacy and respect” imbued by DEQ’s involvement combined with the “knowledge and heartfelt leadership” from UNC can do for Canton. He applauded the “very deliberate” decision to choose Canton as one of the western bus’s nine stops. “I was talking about the future of Canton today with an astrophysicist. I mean, that’s the type of passion they have and

ideas, and that’s what we want at the table,” Smathers said. “We want as many people and diverse ideas about what is next, with the resources and intelligence they bring to the conversation.” The town of Canton has faced more than its share of challenges over the past few years. In 2021, a catastrophic flood ripped through downtown, causing extensive damage to homes and buildings — and claiming six lives upstream in Cruso, where the flooding was most severe. Less than two years later, Pactiv Evergreen announced the closure of Canton’s 115-year-old paper mill, leaving roughly 1,000 workers instantly unemployed.

Established by the N.C. General Assembly in 2016, the N.C. Collaboratory is given significant discretionary funding and wide latitude to carry out research projects that can then be used to inform legislative action. Warren described it as the research “front porch” of the university system. After the mill closure was announced, he began talking with DEQ Secretary Elizabeth Biser about how the Collaborative could help. “She said, ‘The company is going to be focused on the property they own and inside the fence, but what we really need to get a handle on is to understand what’s going on outside — outside of the fence line,’” said Warren.

“We want as many people and diverse ideas about what is next, with the resources and intelligence they bring to the conversation.” — Zeb Smathers, Canton mayor

Testing will look for a wide range of compounds, including components of the toxic papermaking byproduct known as black liquor, within a specified radius of any properties associated with the mill. The team will also likely test for PFAS, a class of chemicals that break down extremely slowly over time and have been found in the blood of people and animals all over the world. The purpose of the testing is not so much to assign blame for the presence of any contaminants found — often, it’s difficult to prove how a particular chemical came to be present in a sample, and to force a susJeffrey Warren addresses the Tar Heels Bus Tour group pected polluter to clean it up — but at The Grateful Table in Canton Oct. 19. Holly Kays photo rather to develop a “to do” list of issues to be addressed. “We understand that [the mill site] is a cornerstone of economic development and jobs for this area,” Warren said, “so anything we can do to help the state repurpose that site and anything that may come off-site — it’s definitely in benefit for the state, for everybody, to make sure we identify any issues and get them cleaned up.” Many of the project specifics are yet to be determined, and full funding won’t be available until February, after the Budget Office has certified the newly enacted budget and money starts to flow. In the meantime, Warren said, the Collaboratory will be building its teams and get researchers out in the field to start some sampling, which will initially It was a blow to the small town, both economically and focus on water — creeks, rivers and wells. More research culturally. But after operations ceased in June, attention will follow in the summer. Warren envisions the project as a turned to cleaning up the site and sketching out the next multi-campus effort, hoping to see Western Carolina chapter of Canton’s story. University take the lead and Chapel Hill, which “I think all of us know, we do see a future on that mill may have more sensitive analytical instruments site,” Smathers said. “And it could be manufacturing and at its disposal, play a supporting role.

HEAVY METALS FOUND IN RIVERBANK SOIL SAMPLE

outdoors

An Aug. 28 photo shows black liquor deposits in the Pigeon River. EPA photo

The most comprehensive sampling yet took place in September, with a work plan filed in June identifying dozens of chemicals to test for. The results of this sampling will inform development of a remedial action plan to get rid of any remaining groundwater contamination. Public records show that PFAS was later added to the list of contaminants the September sampling screened for. The results won’t be available until November, Kastrinsky said. While concerns continue about contamination related to these two ongoing cleanups, there is also good news. A DEQ survey of aquatic creatures conducted downstream from the mill site in August yielded the first-ever “good” bioclassification at that site in the 39 years and 17 observations on record, Kastrinsky said. In July, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission sampled fish populations at three sites downstream from the mill and found double the diversity and 15 times the number of fish logged during a previous sampling event in May, when the mill was still operating.

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After 115 years in operation, the Canton mill stopped making paper in May. Holly Kays photo

October 25-31, 2023

While the Collaboratory-funded research is expected to offer vital insight into the environmental situation past Pactiv Evergreen’s property lines, assessing the situation within those lines is DEQ’s responsibility. With more than six months gone since papermaking stopped, the department has yet to complete an environmental assessment of the mill property or a site closure plan. According to Public Information Officer Josh Kastrinsky, that’s because the department is still occupied with sampling and remediation related to ongoing fuel oil and black liquor cleanups, on which it is working in conjunction with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “The extent of these ongoing actions will determine next steps for future on-site assessments,” Kastrinsky said. The fuel oil cleanup stems from issues with a tank or transfer line on the mill property, with oil observed on the Pigeon River in June 2021 and again in August 2022. A 466-page workplan filed June 15 outlines a schedule of sampling and analysis. The workplan called for a technical memo to be submitted this month. The black liquor cleanup is a more entrenched issue, with the toxic sludge spotted in the river January 2022 associated with an ongoing problem that first received a notice of violation in 1994. Agency staff spotted black liquor deposits on multiple occasions since then. Notices of violation issued to International Paper and Pactiv Evergreen following the seep’s discovery have spurred various sampling events to understand the extent and impact of the contamination. In June, Pactiv Evergreen consultant Ensafe sampled the Pigeon River near one of the seepage areas. A preliminary report showed extremely high levels of several heavy metals in one of the sampling sites, a pit dug along the

exposed riverbank. Lead levels were 2,796 times higher than the state standard. Copper was 332 times higher, chromium 21 times higher, nickel 17 times higher, zinc five times higher and arsenic nearly four times higher. Beryllium came in more than 30% above the state limit. However, the report said, the “vast majority” of sites and chemicals analyzed came in below detection limits.

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Visit the Waynesville Watershed A 4-mile hike exploring the Waynesville Watershed will embark at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7. The group will meet at the town’s water treatment plant and return by 2 p.m., led by the Town of Waynesville and Haywood Waterways Association. The hike is rated moderate to strenuous and winds through the protected 8,000-acre watershed that provides drinking water for many Haywood County residents. Hikers should bring lunch and water, and be prepared to hike through mud. No pets. Space is limited to 15 people. Hikers should bring lunch and water. Free for Haywood Waterways members with

Explore Haywood

Hikers walk the Waynesville Watershed. HWA photo a $5 donation requested from nonmembers. RSVP to Christine O’Brien at christine@haywoodwaterways.org or 828.476.4667, ext. 1.

Experience Panthertown

Smoky Mountain News

October 25-31, 2023

A pair of opportunities to explore the geologic wonder that is Panthertown Valley near Cashiers will be offered over the coming weeks. • Meet 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at the Cullowhee Recreation Center to embark on a 4-6-mile hike through the area with Jackson County Parks and Recreation. Rated as an easy to moderate hike, the route will include about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Cost is $7 register at jcprd.recdesk.com. • Take a hike through Panthertown Valley with Cherokee history in mind 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4. Western Carolina University Sequoyah Distinguished Professor of Cherokee Studies Brett Riggs will lead this 2.3-mile hike while highlighting Cherokee history and culture through storytelling and historical anecdotes. Waterfalls and gorgeous overlooks are on the docket as well. Hikers should bring lunch, snacks, water and any other supplies needed for the day. Organized by Friends of Panthertown. Learn more or RSVP at panthertown.org/events.

Spend November exploring some of the region’s most beautiful hikes with a slate of excursions offered through Haywood County Recreation and Parks. • Take a 5.4-mile hike along the Little Cataloochee Trail Wednesday, Nov. 1, meeting guides Jamie and Ruffin at 9 a.m. at Jonathan Valley Elementary School. This moderately challenging hike passes abandoned homesteads and churches that were once home to generations of farming families and may encounter the herd of elk that now live there. • Walk the lower loop of Canton’s Rough Creek Watershed Sunday, Nov. 5. The group will meet at the Lowe’s parking lot in Waynesville at 12:30 p.m. before embarking on this easy-to-moderate 4.8-mile hike. • Celebrate the Year of the Trail with a hike from the Blue Ridge Parkway’s John Rock Overlook to Graveyard Fields Saturday, Nov. 11. The group will meet guides Kathy and Phyllis at the overlook at 10 a.m. before hiking toward the flat mountain

valley full of wildflowers, fall color and waterfalls. • Stand on the summit of Green Knob with a strenuous 8.4-mile hike Wednesday, Nov. 15. The group will meet guides Phyllis and Vickey 9 a.m. at Jukebox Junction in Bethel before heading to the trailhead on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. • Take a 6.6-mile moderate/challenging hike Saturday, Nov. 18, up Flat Laurel Creek to Sam Knob, whose twin summits offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. • Hike the first 7.9 miles of the Art Loeb Trail starting from Davidson Campground near Brevard Friday, Nov. 24. The group will meet guides Tara and Steve at Jukebox Junction in Bethel before setting out on this moderate/difficult hike, which includes a 2,232-foot elevation gain. • Experience the views from Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a challenging 8.6-mile hike Wednesday, Nov. 29. Meet guides Phyllis and Vickey at Ghost Town parking lot in Maggie Valley at 8:30 a.m. Hike registration is $10. Sign up at haywoodcountync.gov/recreation.

Hike among hemlocks Experience the hemlock trees growing at the historic Cradle of Forestry in America during a hike starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4. During the hike, staff from the Hemlock Restoration Initiative will discuss the hemlock conservation work taking place at the Cradle as well as the importance of hemlocks in the ecosystem and the threats they face from the hemlock wooly adelgid. The walk will take place on paved and gravel trails that are flat or gently sloping. Home to the nation’s first modern school of forestry, the Cradle contains seven historical buildings from the time of the Biltmore Forest School, which operated 1898-1914, and a 1914 Climax logging train engine. To reserve a spot, contact outreach@savehemlocksnc.org or 828.252.4783.

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Panther Top Tower open for fall leaf views The Panther Top Tower in the Nantahala National Forest near Murphy will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 28-29 and Nov. 4-5, offering spectacular views of fall colors in the surrounding mountains. From the tower, the Unicoi, Snowbird, Valley River, Tusquitee and Georgia Blue Ridge mountain ranges are all visible. During fall leaf viewing hours, the gate at the junction of Forest Service Roads 85 and 85A Will be open to allow access. The parking lot at the tower can accommodate several vehicles, and Forest Service volunteers will be on site to answer questions. The 30-foot tower was erected in 1940 and remained in operation until the blizzard of 1993 destroyed the phone and power lines servicing it, with utility companies refusing to replace them. Today the tower is used in periods of high fire danger and is a popular visitor destination. A few months ago, the U.S. Forest Service completed renovations on the structure.

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Help shape a strategic action plan for the Blue Ridge Parkway corridor during the Blue Ridge Rising Two-State Summit Dec. 5-6 at Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock. Hosted by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the summit is the culmination of a nearly year-long planning effort designed to determine strategies that will benefit the entire 29-county region through which the Parkway runs, with an emphasis on travel, tourism and outdoor recreation. Attendees will hear highlights and examples from the emerging action

plan and connect with people from across the region. The summit will include an opening dinner and keynote address by author Dan Chapman highlighting the challenges and possible solutions to protecting the region’s natural bounty, a morning keynote by The Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg sharing lessons learned from taking a regional approach to saving Florida’s Everglades and a celebratory social featuring regional fare. Registration is $135 prior to Nov. 1 and $150 through Dec. 1. To learn more or register, visit blueridgerising.com.

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Weigh in on DuPont’s future Give your two cents on the future of DuPont State Recreational Forest with a public information drop-in session slated for 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Transylvania County Parks and Recreation Gym in Brevard. The consultant team responsible for DuPont’s master recreation planning effort has now formed preliminary recommendations for consideration. By attending the drop-in session, members of the public can learn about the results and select their preferred recommendations from a list of preliminary options. This input will help formulate the final recommendations that will become part of the master plan.

Learn about the historic threats facing the French Broad River and an ongoing effort to secure the designation of Wild and Scenic River for the North Fork during the next meeting of the WNC Sierra Club at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, at the University of North Carolina Asheville’s Reuter Center. The presentation will also be available on Zoom. Jack Igelman, a reporter for Carolina Public Press who also teaches economics at Warren-Wilson College, has followed the story of this river and will discuss efforts to protect the river and obtain the designation to keep it protected. Free. To register for Zoom, visit wncsierraclub.org. For more information, contact Judy Mattox at judymattox15@gmail.com or 828.683.2176.

Check out the FROG Fair Support Franklin’s Friends of the Greenway at the nonprofit’s fall fundraising arts and crafts event FROG Fair, slated for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 28, at FROG Quarters located at 573 E. Main St. in Franklin. Friends of the Greenway uses its funds for greenway-related enhancement projects, with volunteers assisting with trail upkeep.

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Crews are now working to reconstruct the viewing platform atop Mount Pisgah in the Pisgah National Forest, a project that is expected to take about two weeks to finish. The platform, first built by the U.S. Youth Conservation Corps in 1979, found itself in need of such extensive repairs that large portions of the structure had to be rebuilt. The project is funded through donaMount Pisgah tions to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation with Carolina Mountain viewing platform. Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation photo Club volunteers assisting the contracted crew working on the project. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation has It was inspired by the memory of Lisa also funded a new interpretative sign in the Hambrick Hagebak and championed by her overlook parking area where the Mount Pisgah family to recognize her love of the Blue Ridge trailhead is located. The wayside panel feaParkway and surrounding mountains. tures the history of Buck Spring Lodge, George “Not only will the new platform be attracW. Vanderbilt’s former Adirondack-style tive, but it will provide a safer area for hikers to take in mountain views,” said Kevin Brandt, retreat which was located nearby. Since 1997, the nonprofit has provided more than $22 milproject manager for the Blue Ridge Parkway lion in support of the country’s most-visited Foundation. national park unit. Work began Oct. 23 and is expected to

Smokies proposes new Foothills Parkway section Through Nov. 18, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is accepting comments on a proposal to add 9 new miles to the Foothills Parkway, extending it from Wears Valley to the spur near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. The park is currently working to prepare an Environmental Assessment for the proposed project and is also conducting public scoping to determine which topics to consider during the environmental review process. The concept of a parkway in The Foothills Parkway is one of the mostTennessee near Great Smoky used areas of the park. Joye Ardyn Durham photo Mountains National Park was conceived in the 1930s, with legislation establishing the parkway signed into law in 1944 and construction beginning in the 1950s. Currently, the parkway includes 33 continuous miles from Chilhowee to Wears Valley to the west and 6 miles from Cosby to Interstate 40 to the east. Construction has not begun on the three middle sections. More than 400,000 vehicles per year visit the currently completed sections. Expected benefits of the project include providing recreational opportunities, supporting tourism, improving the transportation network inside and outside the park and fulfilling the intent of federal and state legislation authorizing construction of the Foothills Parkway. Initial public input on the new section, Section 8D, was received during a public comment period in 2021 related to a proposed connector road from 8D to the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic area. That proposal has been dismissed from consideration. Learn more or submit a comment at parkplanning.nps.gov/Section8D. Comments can also be sent in writing to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ATTN: Foothills Parkway 8D Scoping, 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. They must be submitted or postmarked by Nov. 18. There will be an additional opportunity for comment once the Environmental Assessment is released.

Search for spiders 32

take two weeks. The trail will remain open during this time, but hikers should be careful when visiting the summit. A funicular owned by Sinclair Broadcasting Group is being used to transport materials up to the 5,721-foot summit.

The North Carolina Spider Search, which runs Oct. 21-29, is now underway. To participate and earn a special N.C. Spider Search patch, upload seven or

more spider observations to the iNaturalist app during that timeframe. Results help document biodiversity of these important creatures. For more information, visit scienceacrossnc.org/events/spiders.

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. • There will be a Community Food Pantry event 1-3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at the Brasstown Community Center. There is no sign-up or income requirement. Drive up to the outdoor pavilion and volunteers will hand out bags of food. To volunteer call 828.360.5058.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • Jackson County Public School is hosting national speaker, Officer Jermaine Galloway 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5, at the auditorium at Smoky Mountain High School. He will speak to the community about substance abuse among youth.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS • The Pollinators Foundation offers weekly Mindful Movement Qigong classes for all ages to reduce stress and improve health and well-being. Classes take place 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Folkmoot Center in Waynesville. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.4224.1398. • The Pollinators Foundation and The Share Project host weekly Happy Hour Walks 5-6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays at Lake Junaluska. The group meets at the Labyrinth. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.4224.1398. • 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, NC. All are welcome, registration is recommended. For more information, please call 828.558.4550.

Smoky Mountain News

n All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. n To have your item listed email to calendar@smokymountainnews.com • 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. • 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. • Wiggle Worms Storytime takes place 10:30-11 a.m. every Tuesday, at the Waynesville branch of the Haywood County Public Library. Ideal for children 2-6 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. • 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.

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 are always willing to help those still learning the finer points of the game. Contact kei3ph@bellsouth.net for more information. • 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. • Sylva Writers Group meets Wednesday mornings at City Lights Books. If interested contact sylvawriters@gmail.com. • A Novel Escape Book Club takes place at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month at the Novel Escape Bookstore (60 E Main St, Franklin). Every other month one book is selected for discussion. On alternate months the meeting is round-table discussion in which participants share what they’ve read lately. For more information call the bookstore at 828.369.9059 or visit anovelescapefranklin.wordpress.com.

KIDS AND FAMILIES • 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.

A&E

• The Pollinators Foundations will host an expressive arts playshop, “Mask Making” 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.424.1398. • The Pollinators Foundations will host an expressive arts playshop, “Tree of Gratitude” 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.424.1398. • A Holiday Bazar will take place 3-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, on the outside field at the Folkmoot Center in Waynesville. For more information visit folkmoot.org or 828.452.2997. • The Pollinators Foundations will host an expressive arts playshop, “Prayer Flags for the Soul” 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.424.1398. • 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. • 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 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bryson City Wine Market. Pick from artisan Charcuterie Foods to enjoy with wines. 828.538.0420

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • A glassblowing glass to make Christmas ornaments will take place starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Green Energy Park in Jackson County. To register for a class, contact GEP at 828.631.0271. • 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. • Hike through Panthertown Valley near Cashiers with the Jackson County Parks and Recreation 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 27. The group will meet at the Cullowhee Recreation Center for the 4-6 mile hike. Cost is $7, register at jcprd.recdesk.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 • Franklin’s Friends of the Greenway will hold its fall fundraising arts and crafts event FROG Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at FROG Quarters located at 573 E. Main Street in Franklin. Friends of the Greenway uses its funds for greenway-related enhancement projects, with volunteers assisting with trail upkeep. • The next meeting of the WNC Sierra Club will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, at the University of North Carolina Asheville’s Reuter Center. There will be a presentation on the historic threats facing the French Broad River and an ongoing effort to secure the designation of Wild and Scenic River for the North Fork. Free. For more information contact Judy Mattox at judymattox15@gmail.com or 828.683.2176. • Western Carolina University Sequoyah Distinguished Professor of Cherokee Studies Brett Riggs will lead a hike through Panthertown Valley from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4. Hikers will learn about Cherokee history and culture. Learn more or RSVP at panthertown.org/events. • 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. • Experience the hemlock trees growing at the historic Cradle of Forestry in America during a hike starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4. To reserve a spot, contact outreach@savehemlocksnc.org or 828.252.4783. • The Panther Top Tower in the Nantahala National Forest near Murphy will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 28-29 and Nov. 4-5, offering spectacular views of fall colors in the surrounding mountains. • There will be a fly fishing class 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, on Richland Creek in Waynesville. Cost is $10, fishing license required, bring your own rod and flies, waders not needed. For more information contact Betty Green at betty.green@haywoodcountync.gov or visit haywoodcountync.gov/recreation or call 828.452.6789. • A public information drop-in session on the future of DuPont State Recreation Forest is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Transylvania County Parks and Recreation Gym in Brevard. • Hike Rough Creek Watershed’s lower loop with the Haywood County Parks and Recreation Sunday, Nov. 5. The group will meet at the Lowes parking lot by Asheville Hwy at 12:30 p.m. For more information contact Betty Green at betty.green@haywoodcountync.gov or visit haywoodcountync.gov/recreation or call 828.452.6789. • Hike the Waynesville Watershed at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7, with Haywood Waterways Association. Free for Haywood Waterways members with a $5 donation requested from nonmembers. RSVP to Christine O’Brien at christine@haywoodwaterways.org or 828.476.4667, ext. 1. • Join an expert birder at 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at Lake Junaluska to see many migrating birds that make their winter home in Haywood County. Loaner binoculars available for use. For more information contact Betty Green at betty.green@haywoodcountync.gov or visit haywoodcountync.gov/recreation or call 828.452.6789.

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Hayw y ood Co. Real Estate Agents 71 N. Main St., Waynesville office 828.564.9393

Pets KITTENS!! Asheville Humane Society has kittens available for adoption; all 2-6 months old and cute as can be! Fee includes vaccination and spay/neuter. (828) 761-2001 adoptions@ ashevillehumane.org HOUND MIX, BROWN/ BLACK/WHITE — JUDITH 6 yr-old girl; friendly. Loves trail hikes and car rides, or lounging on the couch. Asheville Humane Society (828) 761-2001 adoptions@ ashevillehumane.org

Jerry Powell Cell: 828.508.2002

jpowell@beverly-hanks.com

74 N. Main St., Waynesville

828.452.5809

Real Estate Announcements PUBLISHER’S NOTICE $OO UHDO HVWDWH DGYHUWLVLQJ LQ WKLV QHZVSDSHU LV VXEMHFW WR WKH )DLU +RXVLQJ $FW ZKLFK PDNHV LW LOOHJDO WR DGYHUWLVH µDQ\ SUHIHUHQFH OLPLWDWLRQ RU GLVFULPLQDWLRQ EDVHG RQ UDFH FRORU UHOLJLRQ VH[ KDQGLFDS IDPLOLDO VWDWXV RU QDWLRQDO RULJLQ RU DQ LQWHQWLRQ WR PDNH DQ\ VXFK SUHIHUHQFH OLPLWDWLRQ RU GLVFULPLQDWLRQ¶ )DPLOLDO VWDWXV LQFOXGHV FKLOGUHQ XQGHU OLYLQJ ZLWK SDUHQWV RU OHJDO JXDUGLDQV DQG SUHJQDQW ZRPHQ 7KLV QHZVSDSHU ZLOO QRW NQRZLQJO\ DFFHSW DQ\ DGYHUWLVLQJ IRU UHDO HVWDWH LQ YLRODWLRQ RI WKLV ODZ $OO GZHOOLQJV DGYHUWLVHG RQ HTXDO RSSRUWXQLW\ EDVLV

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VVV SKĚUGRD ĚTėUKĚĚCI G EOM October 25-31, 2023

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October 25-31, 2023

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WE OFFER: $ 2,00 00 SIGN ON BONUS ❖ 8S WR ZHHNV SDLG WLPH Rσ ❖ 40 01k ❖ Supplemental l t l insurance i ava ailable il bl ❖ 90 0 day and yearly evaluation ns ❖ Referral R bucks - $250 ❖ Uniform allowance - $100 an nnually ❖ 1 Free meal per shift - Split shift s 》 Med Techs e — starting @ 16.00 & up (based on exp) ex 》 CNA’s — starting @ $15..00 & up (based on o exp) 》 PCA’s — starting @ $14.0 00 & up (based on o exp) 》 Dietary y Cooks — starting g@$ $14.00 & u up p ((based onn exp) p) 》 Dietary Aides — starting g @ 12.00 & up (based on exxp) 》 Housekeeping — starting @ $12.00 & up p (based onn exp)

The Ne ex x Besst Thing to Being att Home. xt Home Haywood Lodg ge & Retirement Center has h been devoted to helpin ng those that need assisttance with daily routines and care for more than 60 0 years in Wa W aynesville,, NC, in two separate facilities.

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October 25-31, 2023

》 Maintenance — (based on exp) Apply online e at: www.haywoodlodge.co om or in person at 251 Shelton Street, Waynesville, NC 287 786 Ph hone: 828-456-8365

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Smoky Mountain News October 25-31, 2023