The Christmas season is upon us and the mountains are already shifting into holiday mode. With that in mind, The Smoky Mountain News has assembled a full roundup of Christmas events around Western North Carolina. Check out events from all around the region. (Page 24)
The Pigeon Center responds to community’s disaster needs............................11
Lawmakers expand funding for private school vouchers......................................12
WNC law enforcement aims to turn ‘Blackout Wednesday’ blue......................13
Cooper taps Wijewickrama for superior court seat................................................15
Sham Helene relief bill riles western leaders............................................................16 Community Almanac........................................................................................................21
Opinion
The meaningful moments that make memories........................................................22 Lessons from Noah’s flood — confessions of a progressive................................23
A&E
Bluegrass
Outdoors
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C ONTRIBUTING: Jeff Minick (writing), Susanna Shetley (writing), Adam Bigelow (writing), Thomas Crowe (writing)
I NFO & B ILLING | P.O. Box 629, Waynesville, NC 28786
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Over the past couple of years, I’ve been pondering the exchange of energy among people and working harder to shift the energy in a room or within a relationship. It’s not a new concept, just one that wasn’t talked about much in mainstream media until more modern times. I’ve always sensed the “vibe” of a person or situation, but it’s only been recently that I’ve thought of it with intention or how it relates to all aspects of being human.
Similar to the exchange of energy among people, the exchange of money is another type of energetic encounter. There’s a different type of emotion when you exchange money with someone you know
or with a local business owner, in contrast to clicking a “Buy Now” button on Amazon or typing a credit card number into an online payment portal.
Last weekend we happened upon the Mistletoe Makers Market in downtown Waynesville. Within moments of being there, we stopped at a booth with handcrafted spice blends and rubs. We chatted with the vendors who offered suggestions about the types of foods on which to use the blends. When we walked away, we smiled and chatted about how excited the grill masters of the family would be when they received their gifts.
Next, we saw a friend and former colleague of mine from Waynesville Middle
School. After retiring from education, she learned the incredible art of plaster casting and started a business called Nature’s Creation Plaster Casting. We purchased a few ornaments. Not only are these ornaments beyond anything we could have found online or at a big box store, but the joy I felt from seeing my old friend and supporting her new business was profound.
Then we saw another acquaintance who works in banking and, as a side hustle, began creating beautiful stationary on sustainable seed paper which can be planted to grow flowers or other plants after being used. We bought a package of cards as well as Christmas tags. After this, we stopped at two separate vendors to buy handmade jew-
elry and even bought stud earrings from a nine-year old jewelry maker who offered her wares from a little booth on the sidewalk.
We then visited our friend who owns Affairs of the Heart and bought a gift from her store before frolicking down to Axe & Awl Leatherworks where we purchased an additional gift.
Walking back to our car, I felt lighter and happy to have supported local establishments and craftspeople and knowing the exchange of money was going directly into their pockets to care for their families or further their businesses. Additionally, our friends and family will be grateful and excited about their unique, meaningful gifts.
Days later, my older son and I went to downtown Asheville, which after being battered by Hurricane Helene, seems elated to be open for business and without the constraints of a boil water advisory. We learned of a newer independent Indian restaurant called Laila Asheville where we enjoyed a delicious buffet of fresh flavorful dishes. We shopped in a few stores and then found ourselves at Tops for Shoes, a shoe store established in 1952. Standing at the threshold, I felt a rush of nostalgia. As they say, “the body keeps the score.” And my body remembers many, many visits to this special place.
When I was growing up, before there were options like Walmart and Amazon, my sister and I got every pair of shoes we owned from Tops. Back in the day, they sold dance shoes such as ballet slippers and tap shoes, so we even got those from Tops. Then, when my boys were little, I F
fits of shopping at a shoe store as opposed to a store that sells everything. In my opinion, the fact that Tops remains open after all these decades is a testament to the WNC region’s commitment to supporting locallyowned businesses.
I say all of this to encourage you to shop local not only during the holiday season, but always. This year seems more important than ever as all businesses in the area are trying to rebound from the financial losses related to Hurricane Helene. Some folks falsely believe buying local is more expensive or complicated, but this is false. Give it a try
buying from Amazon or walmart.com can be easy at times and works well for things like paper towels or toilet paper and the like, but when it comes to buying a truly heartfelt gift for someone who brings happiness to your life, there is nowhere better to purchase that special something than from your neighbor or fellow citizen. The exchange of energy you’ll feel is indescribable. It’s something you have to experience to fully understand.
(Susanna Shetley is a writer, editor and digital media specialist. susnna.b@smokymountainnews.com.)
ROAD KILL GRILL spice rub
Susanna Shetley (left) at the Mistletoe Makers Market.
Downtown Waynesville Commission photo
A guide to gifting fitness fans
Physical activity is an important component of a healthy
150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, or at least 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week.
kick-boxing studio or a H.I.I.T establishment, speak with the
insulated water bottle ensures that fitness fans can enjoy cold water or a sports drink throughout their exercise sessions. There’s even a water bottle that self-cleans using UV light to kill bacteria in the bottle.
TREADMILL OR STATIONARY BIKE
If you know a loved one has had eyes on improving a home gym, a treadmill or stationary bike can bring the space to the next level. There is home equipment for every budget.
NEW KICKS
Comfortable, supportive athletic shoes ensure workouts aren’t hindered by sore feet. Since shoe fit and style is a personal choice, it might be a safer bet to give a gift card to a popular athletic store or online retailer rather than purchasing the footwear yourself.
FITNESS MONITOR OR SMART WATCH
their daily lives. Some become gym enthusiasts, while others congregate to yoga studios or other activities. Some still prefer to exercise at home or outdoors. When it comes time to shop for people with a fondness for fitness, gift givers can consider these ideas.
UPGRADE A MEMBERSHIP
Do some research to learn where your fitness lover spends most time working out. If it is a traditional gym, a
step further and purchase a few sessions at a massage therapy location near the recipient’s home.
INSULATED WATER BOTTLE OR TUMBLER
Staying hydrated is important when working out. An
It seems like everyone now has some sort of smart device, but if the person on your list still hasn’t made the switch to a watch that tracks various health data, then that can make for a perfect gift. Smart watches and fitness trackers monitor steps and various health markers such as pulse, elevation climbed and distance, and can even detect if a user has a burgeoning health problem. When pairing the watch with popular fitness apps, users can log daily activities and their diets to get a bigger picture of their overall health.
Those who prioritize fitness can benefit from any number of health- and fitness-minded gifts this season.
Why shop local for the holidays
Various components come together to make the holiday season a festive time of year. There is a lot to get done in a short amount of time during the holiday season, and part of that includes shopping for all of the family members and friends on your shopping list. Shopping can be a complicated process that involves identifying which stores will be the best places to shop. Local retailers make the perfect place to shop for holiday items.
According to the American Express Business Economic Impact Study, more than two-thirds of every dollar spent with a local business stays in the community. Indeed, shopping local benefits consumer and community alike. The following are some of the many perks to shopping locally throughout the holiday season.
• Personalized attention: Small businesses are known for their personalized customer service and owners and staff are often lauded for taking the time to interact and learn about their customers, a dynamic that is impossible at larger retailers.
• Meet and interact with people: Shopping in-person at local stores, you’ll see faces from your community and become better known in the local area.
• Shorter lines: Local stores are bound to have smaller crowds and thus shorter lines. That translates to less stress and hassle when it comes to getting in and out with holiday gifts.
• Smaller carbon footprint: Pollution, traffic congestion, habitat loss, and resource depletion may not occur on the same levels when shopping locally compared to patronizing big box stores. That’s because local retailers tend to create or source their products locally, whereas many big box stores secure their goods overseas.
• Easier parking: This goes hand-in-hand with smaller crowds, as shopping locally does not typically require driving up and down endless aisles at malls or standalone retail stores in an effort to find a parking spot. Local retailers in town may have on-street parking or closed lots that are convenient to shoppers.
• Small batch shopping experience: Consumers can secure items in small businesses that are not carbon copies of those found across the country at major retail chains. When seeking a unique, thoughtful gift, shopping locally is the way to go.
Shopping locally this holiday season provides an array of benefits to consumers, and helps to solidify a strong Main Street in communities.
OU Y B HOLIDAAY DA
Build your gift list for DIY enthusiasts
Rising prices have pushed people to look for new ways to save money. The do-it-yourself approach to home repairs has long been seen as a potential avenue to save money, and holiday shoppers can consider DIY when shopping for loved ones this year.
A recent survey by the remodeling company Allstar Home reported that 70 percent of Americans have recently engaged in DIY home improvement projects. Similarly, a new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of the DIY Network found that 73 percent of Canadian homeowners have done a renovation project themselves in the past. With so many homeowners tackling projects around the home on their own, DIY-related products may be just what’s needed to hammer down the perfect gift. The following are some potential home improvement presents for DIY enthusiasts.
• Magnetic wristband: Keeping items close at hand takes on new meaning when one utilizes a magnetic wristband. The BinyaTools Magnetic Wristband is just one of the versions of this handy tool that’s ideal for wrangling screws, nails, washers, and any other ferrous items. It’s also a great option for crafters and jewelry makers.
• Rolling work bench: People serious about projects will need a place to store all the tools they have collected. A rolling work bench, such as the Gladiator nine-drawer work bench, has drawers to store tools and a wooden top on which smaller tasks can be tackled. Roll it where needed.
• Hearing protection: Drills, sanders and other power tools can be noisy. DIYers will want to protect their hearing, and a set of workshop earmuffs can be a thoughtful gift. Some, like the 3M WorkTunes headphones, even come with Bluetooth technology to offer both hearing protection and the ability to listen to tunes while working.
• Headlamp: DIYers need both hands to tackle jobs effectively, which can make holding a flashlight to illuminate the area challenging. Hands-free lighting is possible with an LED headlamp. The light is easily focused where the user is looking.
• Laser measuring tape: A smart measuring tape utilizes a laser to increase measuring size, calculate distances and ensure that every home improvement project lines up.
• Painting essentials kit: Painting is an easy and effective way to transform a room. For those DIYers who have yet to compile all of their painting gear, local home improvement retailers often package kits that include a dropcloth, assorted roller sizes, brushes, a paint tray, and even painter’s tape to get started on projects.
• Sawhorse: DIYers working on large projects can benefit from an adjustable saw horse to support materials and ensure safer cuts. The ToughBuilt C700 is an option to consider since it has support pegs that fold out of the legs to allow for greater ease of use.
The list of gifts for DIYers is endless. Tools and additional gear can help people nail holiday shopping this year.
You are not alone
Macon housing needs assessment tells familiar story
BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER
When Patrick Bowen, president of Bowen National Research, presented a housing needs assessment to the Macon County’s board of commissioners earlier this month, there was one thing he kept coming back to.
“We’re seeing it around the country,” Bowen said of most of the trends he described in the Macon County housing market. Macon County is growing and is expected to add more than 500 households over the five-year period between 2023 and 2028.
“You’re going to have growth continue to come to the area; that’s going to drive part of your housing needs in the future at a pace that’s just slightly below the state average but still really positive growth,” said Bowen.
The biggest growth in households in Macon County is expected to occur among seniors ages 75 and older, but the county is also growing among households between the ages of 35 and 44.
“That’s a national trend,” Bowen said. “You have older millennials sweeping through the nation and then you have the baby boomers. Macon County is no different but that will affect housing.”
In the rental market, surveyors working on the housing needs assessment found that almost 60% of renter households in the county earn less than $40,000 annually. This trend is expected to continue through 2028. However, the most growth among renter households in the county is expected to be among those making between $60,000 and $99,000. According to Bowen, this will drive demand for high-end rental products even though most renters need more affordable units.
The owner household market tells a similar story. While over half of owner households make $60,000 or more annually, growth among owner households in Macon County is expected to be concentrated among those earning more than $100,000 a year.
“The projected growth among higher-income owner households is indicative of a shift in the distribution of owner households by income toward the higher earning cohorts, though it is important to note that more than one-quarter of all owner households are projected to continue to earn less than $40,000 through 2028,” the housing needs assessment reads.
Researchers found that nearly 4,000 individuals commute from surrounding areas into Macon County for work, accounting for 36.6% of people employed in the county. Close to half of those commuters are between the ages of 30 and 54, and about 40% of them earn over $40,000 annually.
“There are reasons why people don’t choose to live in a particular town or county — taxes, schools, whatever it may be,” said Bowen. “But I will tell you this, housing does play a role.”
The demand for multifamily rentals is significant, with zero vacant units out of 316 total in the county.
Bowen postulated that the lack of available rentals and houses for sale encourage commuting into the county for work.
“When you have a lot of people that are commuting into an area, they will choose to live in that area if housing is available,” said Bowen. “When we do this survey in other markets, typically about 40% of people that commute into a county want to live in that county if housing is available and affordable to them.”
But like many counties in North Carolina and around the United States, Macon County is suffering from lack of available housing.
The demand for multifamily rentals is significant, with zero vacant units out of 316 total in the county. Each of the eight multifamily properties surveyed within the county maintain a waiting list for the next available unit, with a total of 300 households across waiting lists and a 12-month wait for government-subsidized projects.
“Nothing is available,” Bowen said. “That is incredibly rare where we find a market where we can’t find anything to rent among these apartments.”
The county’s overall multifamily occupancy rate is 100% while a healthy, well-balanced market operates at an occupancy rate of 94-96%.
“[There’s] a lot of pent-up demand,” Bowen said.
But in addition to multifamily rentals, Macon County has a large sector of non-conventional rentals, which include singlefamily homes, duplexes, mobile homes, and other units available for rent.
These non-conventional rentals make up more than 84% of the county’s rental products with about 3,835 units in existence.
Out of those 3,835 units, the housing needs assessment found only seven currently available for rent, representing a vacancy rate of just 0.2%.
“That’s good for property owners, investors of real estate, that’s not good for the community,” Bowen said. “You normally want to be about 4-6% vacant. You want vacancies for a healthy market, as people get married, have kids, all kids of changes in life, they need housing to be available.”
Again, housing sales tell a similar story.
The volume of home sales in the county has declined every year from 2021 to 2024, while the median sales price has
increased dramatically, maxing out at $334,500 in 2023. In 2020 the median sales price for a home in Macon County was $250,000, and in 2024, projected year end median sale price is $305,000.
“You can see home prices are so high and have been escalating and they’re far outpacing wages,” said Bowen. “That makes it difficult for folks to be able to afford housing.”
With about 179 homes available for sale in Macon County, the availability (vacancy) rate is 1.4%, well below the healthy range of 2-3%. Most of these available homes are priced $400,000 or higher.
The majority of available homes, relative to total housing, are located in Highlands, where the availability rate sits at 6%. This availability in Highlands, where 98.7% of homes are priced over $400,000, somewhat skews housing availability data for the county. If Highlands is not counted in the county’s availability rate, it would sit even lower, below the 1% mark. In Franklin, availability is at 0.7%.
County-wide, there are just 17 houses priced under $200,000, less than 10% of housing stock.
“You are not alone,” said Bowen. “We are seeing that in market after market here in North Carolina and throughout the United States. Very small supply of what we would classify as affordable for-sale houses.”
With lack of availability come consequences. Researchers conducting the housing needs assessment found that 322 Macon County Households live in substandard housing — 227 overcrowded housing units and 95 housing units with either incomplete indoor plumbing or indoor kitchen facilities.
Additionally, nearly 1,900 Macon County households live in severely cost-burdened housing, meaning they pay over 50% of their income toward housing, with 891 renters and 990 owner households experiencing this financial burden.
Short-term rentals in the county have increased steadily since 2020, jumping from 446 units in 2020 to 748 by July 2023. Visitor spending in Macon County totaled $350 million in 2023, increasing by 3.8% from the preceding year, which accounted for the largest increase among Macon, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson and Swain counties.
About 14.5% of the county’s workforce, or 1,706 people are employed in tourism-related occupations. The housing needs assessment found that very few of these tourism-related occupations pay sufficient wages to enable workers to reasonably afford to rent or buy a home in Macon County.
“This is a major economic challenge for this area,” said Bowen. “Affordable workforce housing would play an important role in the future of Macon County’s economy.”
The team identified 40 sites across the county as potential residential development sites. Of those, 22 are vacant or undeveloped parcels of land, eight consist of over 10 acres each, and 18 contain at least one existing building.
The team also identified over 50 potential development partners, ranging from nonprofit groups to lenders and developers.
Ultimately, the team found that at least 629 rental units would be needed to solve all issues, accounting for both growth, and improvement or movement for some of those residents living in substandard, or cost-burdened housing.
The greatest need for rentals are those under $1,000 per month.
The team found that between 1,400 and 1,500 for-sale houses are needed county-side, and that the greatest need is for homes priced under $200,000.
Among the list of recommendations that came with the housing needs assessment, there were a few that were specific to Macon County. One of those is that consideration should be given to improving the education and job training opportunities for adult residents to raise earning capacity and expand the skilled labor force associated with the construction industry.
“Those that are in plumbing, electricians, roofers, you have a really low share of those skilled trained workers,” said Bowen. “How do we solve some of our affordability issues? You want the workforce locally here.”
The Pigeon Center responds to community’s disaster needs
Support needed to make up fundraising shortfall
The Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center quickly became a storm recovery hub in Waynesville just days after Hurricane Helene devastated areas of Haywood County.
Tausha Forney made her way from her home in Canton to the Pigeon Center in Waynesville to check for storm damage. Most of the region was still without power and cell service when Pigeon Center staff and volunteers organized quickly to meet the basic needs of impacted residents.
just down the street from the center opened its doors to the after-school program since all the Pigeon Center classrooms were being used to store donations.
While the Pigeon Center staff and volunteers are proud of their recovery efforts, it also means the nonprofit organization has had to cancel several of its normal fundraising events that are crucial to keeping the center
in town for the
Trucks began rolling in with supplies on Oct. 1 from all over the Southeast. On Oct. 2, the center was open to distribute food and emergency supplies as well as serving hot meals. As the donations continued to pour in from other areas, volunteers worked at the center daily to organize and stock the items people needed most, including water, baby food and formula, cleaning supplies and toiletries.
More than 2,000 people have been helped in some capacity at Pigeon Center since the storm.
Nearly two months after the disaster that left hundreds of families without homes or essential utilities, the Pigeon Center is one of the few relief centers still open in the county, and it will continue to provide community assistance long after the Red Cross and FEMA have left the area.
The Pigeon Center staff and volunteers have also delivered supplies to other parts of the region as needed or when the center was at capacity for donations. When students returned to school a couple of weeks after the disaster, the Pigeon Center continued its after school program for local children to take some of the burden off of parents struggling to return to some sense of normalcy and work. Francis Cove United Methodist Church
Gregory Wheeler hopes the community will find a way to give back financially to the center on Dec. 3 and the rest of the holiday season.
“PCMDC is proud to provide support and resources to our community. It is our mission to be of service. While donations have come in to help those who have been impacted by Hurricane Helene, our current need is to raise funds for our operating expenses, such as lights, heat, and salaries to make up for lost revenue due to not being able to use our building and resources to fundraise,” Wheeler said.
Today, the Pigeon Center has a significant focus on educational programming like after school tutoring and summer enrichment programs for local students and support for our seniors and the underserved. The nonprofit’s mission is to strengthen harmony among the residents of the county and its communities. To achieve this, PCMDC helps re-establish the long-standing tradition of the community as a family and fosters intentional inclusiveness to create a holistic quality of life.
To support Pigeon Center’s programs and mission, visit pcmdc.org and click on the donate button. Donors have the option of a one-time donation or a recurring monthly donation. Checks can be mailed to PCMDC, P.O. BOX 1494, Waynesville, NC, 28786.
While
112th Annual Cherokee Fair, stickball team Wudeligv (woo day lee guh), came to volunteer at The Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center after Hurricane Helene. Donated photo
Veto override
Lawmakers expand funding for private school vouchers
awmakers in the North Carolina General Assembly voted last week to override Governor Roy Cooper’s veto and pass a mini budget bill that includes $463 million in funding for the Opportunity Scholarship Grant Program that provides voucher money for families with students attending
This allocation for private school vouchers comes at a time when many counties in Western North Carolina are still trying to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, and recovery funding from the state has fallen short
“We’re going to need significant help from the state and federal government for Western North Carolina to recover, because the local governments there cannot do it all,” said
In addition to the millions for private school vouchers, House Bill 10 also includes $64 million for enrollment growth across the North Carolina Community College System and $95 million recurring funds for K-12 enrollment
Last year, the General Assembly removed the income eligibility requirements, as well as the requirement that recipients must have previously attended public schools, for the Opportunity Scholarship Grant Program — a system that reimburses families with children attending private schools to help pay the cost of tuition and fees. (The vouchers cannot be used for homeschooling.) This led to some 70,000 new applications for private school vouchers for the current 202425 school year, a more than 100% increase over the 2023-24
The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority was able to offer vouchers to 15,805 new students but still had about 55,000 on the waitlist. The bill passed last week provides enough funding to clear that waitlist at the cost of $463 million. It also increases the amount of funding the pro-
The amount will increase each year from $625 million for the upcoming 2025-26 school year to $825 million for the 2032-33 school year. It will continue to be funded at that $825 million annual level thereafter.
The max scholarship award from the grant program is $7,468 for Tier 1 families, which occupy the lowest income bracket. This is 100% of the average per pupil allocation for state funds to public schools. However, not all private schools accept Opportunity Scholarship funds.
Cooper has repeatedly said the voucher system “disproportionately impacts rural North Carolina counties where access to private education is limited and public schools serve as the backbone of communities.”
According to data from the North Carolina Department of Administration, as of the 2024-25 school year, there are 881 private schools in the state that enroll a total of about 130,000 students. Of those, 308 are independent schools and
Mecklenburg county alone is home to 96 private schools, and the Triangle — Wake, Durham and Orange counties — are home to another 139. Of those, 66 private schools in Mecklenburg County and 108 schools in the Triangle counties accept opportunity scholarships.
In Western North Carolina, Haywood County is home to five private schools that enroll 240 students, Jackson County has two private schools that enroll 186 students, Macon has two private schools that enroll 85 students and Swain County has two private schools that enroll 69 students.
In Mecklenburg County, private school students make up about 13% of the combined public/private K-12 population, while in Haywood County that percentage is 3.5%; in Jackson it is 5%; in Swain it is 3.4%; and in Macon it is just 1.87%.
These numbers do not account for students enrolled in Cherokee Central Schools on the Qualla Boundary.
This summer, the Jackson County Board of Education signed a resolution in opposition to expanding funding for the Opportunity Scholarship Grant Program.
“We don’t believe that public school money should go to private sectors,” Jackson County Schools Superintendent Dana Ayers said at the time.
The resolution asked the General Assembly to prioritize public education by “substantially increasing teacher salaries to pay teachers as the professionals they are and to attract and retain qualified educators,” as well as “allocating significant funding for early childhood education, quality childcare and pre-K programs to ensure all children have access to a strong education foundation.”
“I 100% disagree with the General Assembly’s vote to provide that funding to the private school voucher program,” Jackson County School Board Chairman Wes Jamison told The Smoky Mountain News. “If someone is financially capable of sending their child to a private school then the taxpayers of North Carolina shouldn’t have to help fund it. North Carolina ranks 48th in the nation in per-student funding in public schools. This seems less about providing more options for school choice and more about starving public schools to the point where they are unable to perform.”
The bill originally passed the House in September, with WNC Reps. Mike Clampitt (R-Swain) and Karl Gillespie (RMacon) voting in favor. Mark Pless (R-Haywood) was absent for the vote. Senator Kevin Corbin also voted in favor of the bill when it passed in the Senate.
However, Cooper vetoed the bill on Sept. 20, saying that “the bill takes public taxpayer dollars away from the public schools and gives it to private school vouchers that will be used by wealthy families.”
Then came the devastating floods in Western North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene on Friday, Sept. 27, and local elected officials started looking to Raleigh for relief funding.
The General Assembly unanimously passed a wide-ranging $273 million storm relief act on Oct. 10 to fund recovery spending by state agencies. Then, on Oct. 24, it designated an additional $604 million in funding and resources for disaster recovery — far less F
The bill Gov. Cooper vetoed includes $463 million in funding for vouchers. Stock photo
WNC law enforcement aims to turn ‘Blackout Wednesday’ blue
In some areas, Thanksgiving Eve is one of the biggest drinking days of the year, and it is known the kick-off to the festive holiday season.
A 2017 study by UPSERVE restaurant management, states that beer sales increased 270%, liquor sales by 114%, and “growler” sales by a staggering 658% on the night before Thanksgiving.
On Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, at 6 p.m., officers across WNC will turn Blackout Wednesday blue. Patrol cars will be simultaneously stationed at multiple locations across WNC counties with blue lights flashing for five minutes to remind drivers to be sober, slow down and buckle up as we enter the holiday season.
Many of the locations are the places where someone died or was seriously injured in a wreck involving alcohol, drugs or speed. Some sites are where DWI rollover wrecks occurred with child passengers in the vehicle. Some sites are designated high-risk areas.
Many of the patrol cars will be driven by officers and State Troopers who worked that tragic wreck.
In one case, an officer will come back 27 years later to remember the two victims who were killed in Macon County Oct. 16, 1997. “I ask, in the names of all these innocent victims, and in the names of all the officers who have given their lives for your safety, that you drive safely and soberly through the holidays, and that you be a careful and responsible server, whether that be in your home or at an alcohol vending establishment,” said Ellen Pitt, who leads the WNC Regional DWI Taskforce, in a release. “Let this operation be a reminder to celebrate the holidays with joy, but please don’t turn the holidays into a nightmare for someone else.”
than the $3.9 billion that Cooper had called for, and with little real help to businesses that couldn’t afford to take out more loans.
It is estimated that Hurricane Helene caused $53 billion in total damages, the most devastating storm in the state’s history.
On Nov. 18, school leaders from around WNC released statements urging elected officials to prioritize storm recovery instead of private school vouchers.
“Our legislators have an opportunity to help the many counties in Western North Carolina that were devastated and impacted by Hurricane Helene,” Macon County Schools Superintendent Josh Lynch said. “The opportunity resides in utilizing taxpayer dollars to benign the long and arduous task of recovery and rebuilding our western counties instead of using taxpayer dollars to fund private school vouchers for our most wealthy families. The urgent funding priority should be laser-focused on recovery measures and longterm rebuilding efforts to ensure that our western counties are supported and fully funded so that wide-spread recovery can begin now and in the years to come. This funding effort and prioritization of tax dollars will bolster our economy in the far west and will allow initial recovery steps to occur for those that were impacted the most.”
The third storm relief bill passed the North Carolina House and Senate on Nov. 19 and 20 and appropriated an additional $227 million. Representatives Mike Clampitt (RJackson), Karl Gillespie (R-Macon) and Mark pless (R-Haywood) all voted against the bill, the only Republicans to do so.
When The Smoky Mountain News reached Gov. Cooper to ask if the increase in private school voucher funding really comes at the expense of storm relief for Western
North Carolina, Cooper was clear.
“Sure it does,” Cooper said. “With a finite amount of money, they have already obligated billions of dollars to tax relief for the wealthy and for private school vouchers for wealthy people, many of whom already have chosen to have their children in private schools. That’s going to reduce the money that’s available for people in Western North Carolina. I’ve asked them for $3.9 billion as a start, and we’ve seen very little of that in response. I think it’s important for all of us to pull together.”
When the legislature overrode the governor’s veto of House Bill 10 on Nov. 20 and allocated $463 million for the Opportunity Scholarship Program, North Carolina Association of Educators President Tamika Walker Kelley said the decision to spend “billions of taxpayer dollars to fund private school vouchers while public schools remain underfunded, while public educators are asked to do more with less, and as the western part of our state is still recovering from the devastation impact of Helene is irresponsible.”
“Fifteen days ago, the voters of North Carolina had a choice between investing more in our local public schools or supporting candidates who want to send taxpayer dollars to private schools through vouchers,” Kelley said. “The voters chose public schools. Yet today, the lame-duck State Legislature overturned the will of the people by spending more than $4 billion on private school vouchers.”
In the race for State Superintendent of Public Schools, Mo Green beat Michelle Morrow. In addition to several policy differences between the two candidates, Green was adamantly against using tax dollars to expand funding for the voucher system, while Morrow was an ardent supporter of the plan.
File photo
Cooper taps Wijewickrama for superior court seat
BY KYLE PERROTTI
N EWS E DITOR
Judge Roy
Wijewickrama has been appointed to fill the recently vacated senior resident superior court seat in the district made up of Haywood and Jackson counties.
The appointment, announced by Gov. Roy Cooper in a press release, came the afternoon of Nov. 14.
“Judge Wijewickrama has the experience, legal ability and deep knowledge of Haywood and Jackson Counties to be an excellent Superior Court Judge there,” Cooper said in the release. “I am grateful for his willingness to step up and continue serving his community in this way.”
from North Carolina State University and his Juris Doctorate from ClevelandMarshall College of Law.
court seat as soon as he heard that Letts was likely going to create a vacancy by taking on his new role with the tribe.
“Just given my qualifications, I felt like I was well positioned to serve in that role,” Wijewickrama said. “I was ready for this new challenge, and I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Western North Carolina.”
Wijewickrama will likely be sworn in within the next few weeks. Once he vacates his District Court seat, the appointment process for his successor will kick off. Within 30 days of his swearing in, the district bar, made up of attorneys from Clay, Cherokee, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties, will convene to vote on nominees to send to the governor’s office, at which point the governor — whether that’s Cooper or incoming governor Josh Stein — and his staff will vet candidates and make an appointment.
Rental assistance available for homeowners, renters
Homeowners and renters in North Carolina may be eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance if they cannot live in their homes because of damage due to Tropical Storm Helene.
FEMA Rental Assistance is a grant to provide survivors with a temporary place to live while they repair or rebuild their home. This money can be used to rent a place to live, such as a house, apartment, hotel room, RV or other options while your home is repaired, or while you look for a new place to live.
Rental Assistance can cover:
• Temporary housing while you are unable to live in your permanent residence.
• Rent, security deposits and the cost of essential utilities (gas, water and electric).
• Short-term hotel stays while you look for a place to rent.
Wijewickrama currently serves as chief district court judge in Judicial District 43, an appointment he gained four years ago after already having served 10 years on the bench. Previously, Wijewickrama served as a Tribal Prosecutor for the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
This latest appointment was announced following former Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Bradley B. Letts’ appointment as EBCI’s Chief Supreme Court Justice.
Wijewickrama told The Smoky Mountain News the morning of Nov. 15 that he became interested in the superior
Next, because Wijewickrama is the Chief District Court judge, North Carolina’s Chief Supreme Court Justice, Paul Newby, will appoint one of the sitting district court judges to become the chief district court judge, a role that like senior resident superior court judge comes with a number of administrative and policy-setting duties that have an effect on courts across the judicial district.
If you are deemed eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance, the initial grant is for two months. The first step in receiving any assistance from FEMA is to apply for federal assistance. You can do this in several ways: Online at disasterassistance.gov, via the FEMA App or by calling 800.621.3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
court judge over Haywood and Jackson counties. Donated photo
Sham Helene relief bill riles western leaders
Contentious veto override vote likely looms
BY CORY VAILLANCOURT
P OLITICS E DITOR
To be, rather than to seem; North Carolina’s aspirational state motto evokes notions of determination and the desire for substance in a world where a thin veneer of competence is oftentimes seen as an acceptable substitute. But after Republicans rammed what was to be a Hurricane Helene relief bill — in reality, a rushed, naked partisan ambush of the incoming Democratic administration that contained no actual hurricane relief — through the General Assembly last week, that motto now seems about as broken as the roads, bridges, businesses, homes and lives of Western North Carolina residents still calling out for help.
“This is a transparent power grab pushed through by a supermajority that’s not happy with the recent election results, and you’re calling it a disaster relief bill,” said Rep. Lindsey Prather (D-Buncombe), from the floor of the House on Nov. 19. “This is shameful, and Western North Carolina isn’t going to stand for it.”
Republicans didn’t count on Prather being in the legislature much longer, but she won a tough reelection battle in a district
that was gerrymandered specifically to do away with her. Prather’s victory was instrumental in breaking the Republican vetoproof supermajority for next year’s legislative session, but it was only the beginning of bad news for North Carolina Republicans in the wake of the Nov. 5 General Election.
Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson in the gubernatorial race by more than 14 points, so the bill stripped Stein of the power to appoint members to the State Board of Elections and to appoint chairs of the county boards of elections, giving those powers instead to newly-elected Republican Auditor Dave Boliek. The bill also limits the power of the governor to appoint appellate court judges and appoint a majority of members to the State Utilities Commission, halts the automatic appeal of utility monopoly Duke Energy’s rate hikes and prevents the governor from increasing the state’s paltry weekly unemployment benefits, which Gov. Roy Cooper did in the aftermath of Helene.
Democratic Rep. Jeff Jackson defeated Republican Rep. Dan Bishop in the race for attorney general, so the bill stripped Jackson of the ability to litigate on behalf of North Carolina residents by joining multi-state amicus briefs if their positions are “contrary to or inconsistent with the position of the General Assembly.” The bill compels the attorney general to avoid recusal from
defending some lawsuits, like Stein did with the state’s abortion bill. Were the General Assembly to legalize human slavery, Jackson’s office would be forced to defend it.
assistance to affected businesses during a visit by Cooper, Republican Sen. Thom Tillis and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.
Over 450 Tires In Stock
Democrat Mo Green defeated far-right Republican activist Michele Morrow — who was present at the Jan. 6 insurrection and called for the execution of former President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden and Cooper — for the Superintendent of Public Instruction position, so the bill stripped Green of the ability to appeal decisions made by the North Carolina Charter Schools Review Board. In a somewhat-related action, Republicans voted to override Cooper’s veto of a measure that would expand taxpayer funding of private schools, which are allowed to discriminate against students for any reason, to a level that will quickly grow to $825 million a year even as average teacher pay is nearly the lowest in the nation (see VOUCHERS, p. 12).
Further voter suppression tactics, in the form of drastic reductions of the time in which voters have to cure provisional ballots, were included in the bill as well — a final retaliatory strike against North Carolina voters who refused to give Republicans any more power on Nov. 5.
It’s not that western leaders have been silent. Shortly after the storm faded, local and regional officials made plenty of public pleas for help from the General Assembly over a protracted period — pleas for substantive aid to a region decimated by a once-in-a-thousand-years extreme weather event that thus far have gone unanswered.
On Oct. 9, the General Assembly passed a $273 million storm relief act that established the Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Fund and loosened some regulatory mechanisms. Senate President Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) called it a “first step.”
On Oct. 18, Canton’s Democratic Mayor Zeb Smathers reiterated calls for direct grant
On Oct. 24, the General Assembly passed a more expansive storm relief act, dipping into the state’s $4.4 billion Rainy Day Fund for an additional $604 million. The bill fell far short of Cooper’s $3.9 billion proposal, which included $475 million for a Helene business recovery grant program. Although the second relief act appropriated millions in loans for businesses, thousands of businesses across disaster-stricken counties are still paying back COVID-era loans from the Small Business Administration and can’t afford to take on more debt. In Canton alone, 84 business entities took out 30-year loans at 3.75%, totaling nearly $4 million in borrowing.
On Nov. 16, at a Carolina Hurricanes game recognizing Canton’s town staff and elected officials for their work during Helene, Cooper made a foreboding prophecy.
“I just hope the legislature does something next week. I’m concerned that they’re not going to do anything meaningful to help right now,” he told The Smoky Mountain News. “I believe small business grants and direct help to local governments is really important for them to do right now. And it remains to be seen whether they’re going to step up and do it.”
On Nov. 18, Cooper again called on the legislature to forego private school voucher funding in favor of hurricane relief.
On Nov. 19, perched atop a 131-page bill that had never seen the inside of a committee room and had been released less than an hour before deliberations began, was a simple paragraph stipulating an additional $227 million from the Rainy Day Fund be transferred to the Hurricane Helene Recovery Fund. That money is to “remain unspent until appropriated by F
High drama is unfolding at the North Carolina General Assembly over a Hurricane Helene flood relief bill. Cory Vaillancourt photo
an act of the General Assembly.”
On Nov. 20, Buncombe County Democratic Rep. Eric Ager held a press conference with Prather, Rep. Caleb Rudow (DBuncombe) and Sen. Julie Mayfield (DBuncombe), along with Asheville-area business leaders, just before the Senate was to consider the bill.
“People down here in Raleigh may not totally understand the tough spot that we’re in, in Western North Carolina. I think two days ago, Asheville finally got potable water back, but there’s still other systems in Western North Carolina that aren’t providing water. There’s sewer challenges,” Ager said. “The reality of it is we lost the month of October, which is our biggest revenue month of the year in Western North Carolina with the tourism economy.”
Mayfield brought up rental assistance, another aspect of state relief that’s fallen far short of the mark. People who lost jobs — whether due to transportation issues, loss of customers or simply because their businesses were reduced to rubble by area waterways — could also lose their homes, but the General Assembly provided only $1 million in rental assistance to spread across dozens of counties. She’s called for an eviction moratorium, similar to what happened during COVID.
“I mean, we want landlords to be paid. We’re not trying to keep landlords from getting their money,” Mayfield said. “So if an eviction moratorium isn’t the answer, then let’s put $20 million on the table for rental assistance and allow landlords to get their rent. But we didn’t do either one.”
“What you saw was fundamental, principled leadership and doing right by the people of Western North Carolina. That was not a hurricane relief bill; it was a bill that was trying to be marketed as one. Even when talking about the money, it just shifts money. It doesn’t allocate where it goes.”
— Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers
The bill passed the Republican-dominated House on Nov. 19 by a margin of 63 to 46, a strict party line vote — except for three Republicans from some of the neediest communities in Western North Carolina.
Rep. Karl Gillespie, a Macon County native, represents Cherokee, Clay, Graham and Macon counties, which were only lightly impacted by the storm. When reached, Gillespie said he had no comment on his vote.
Rep. Mike Clampitt, a Swain County native, represents Swain and Jackson counties, which were spared much of the destruction seen in surrounding counties, but Clampitt also represents Transylvania County, which saw heavy damage. When reached, Clampitt also said he had no comment on his vote.
“People down here in Raleigh may not totally understand the tough spot that we’re in, in Western North Carolina.
I think two days ago, Asheville finally got potable water back, but there’s still other systems in Western North Carolina that aren’t providing water.”
— Rep. Eric Ager *D-Buncombe)
Rep. Mark Pless, a Haywood County native, represents Haywood and Madison counties, which incurred substantial damage. Pless said “the bill appears to do nothing for Western NC” on Facebook the day after his vote.
Mayor Smathers thanked the three Republican representatives — people he’d worked with when Canton was hit by deadly flooding from Tropical Storm Fred in 2021.
“What you saw was fundamental, principled leadership and doing right by the people of Western North Carolina. That was not a hurricane relief bill; it was a bill that was trying to be marketed as one. Even when talking about the money, it just shifts money. It doesn’t allocate where it goes,” said Smathers. “It was a bill that was done behind closed doors, very quickly and not involving even the Republicans, even our own legislators. This is a bill that should not have been passed and should not exist and should be vetoed. And if it was Democrats doing it, I would say the same thing.”
The bill passed the Senate on Nov. 20 by a margin of 30 to 19, this time on a strict Republican party line vote with no defections. Mitchell County Republican Sen. Ralph Hise, who represents part of Haywood County and some of the most devastated communities in the state, voted yes, as did Macon County Republican Sen. Kevin Corbin, who represents all of the counties Clampitt, Gillespie and Pless represent.
“I respect their vote,” said Corbin, who added that he’d talked to the three and that they’d told him their intentions. “There were some things in the bill I didn’t particularly care for, but I don’t tell those guys how to vote and they don’t tell me how to vote.”
One thing in particular Corbin did like
S EE R ELIEF BILL, PAGE 19
about the bill, as chair of the Senate’s health care committee, was the $34 million requested to replace pandemic-era federal grants to child care providers that expired on July 1.
On July 9, the General Assembly subsequently funded the program, but only to a fraction of what experts said was needed.
“As health chair, that’s my responsibility. It’s a big thing for me, and for my counties,” Corbin said. “I couldn’t vote ‘no’ on a bill where I’d asked for something. There’s only a ‘yes’ and a ‘no’ button. There’s no ‘maybe’
Commissioner Parker Sloan, Chimney Rock
Mayor Peter O’Leary, Spruce Pine Mayor Phil Hise, Lake Lure Mayor Pro Tem Dave DiOrio and Madison County Manager Rod Honeycutt, among others.
Cooper’s delegation also met with congressional budget staff in the House and the Senate, including ranking Democratic Senate Budget Chair Patty Murray (DWashington). Smathers lauded the bipartisan support, singling out Congressman Chuck Edwards (R-Henderson) for praise. Cooper said he was encouraged by the meetings with North Carolina Republican senaThom Tillis and Ted Budd.
Guiding WNC to Affordable Health Care
pointing out that the billion or so dollars already appropriated for recovery is twice the amount of any other storm in North Carolina history, and that the state’s Rainy Day Fund, now thought to be around $3.7 billion, would only cover a small percentage of the total estimated need of $53 billion.
Based on comments made by Cooper, including to Spectrum television on Nov. 21, it appears likely he will veto the bill. Although Republicans will retain their vetoproof supermajority until the next legislative session begins, they’d still need votes from Clampitt, Gillespie and Pless to override Cooper’s expected veto.
The Senate is likely to attempt a veto override vote on Dec. 2, with the House following suit on Dec. 11.
In a Nov. 25 conversation, Pless said it was still “to be determined” if he would vote to override an expected Cooper veto.
“I won’t decide until I push the button, after taking everything into consideration,” Pless said.
With the General Assembly biding its time on meaningful relief, Cooper traveled to Washington, D.C., with a delegation of western leaders in the hours after the bill was ratified, appealing to higher authority for help — including President Joe Biden.
The delegation included Smathers, Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer, Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards, Buncombe
Congress for $100 billion in disaster funding nationally. Cooper said he’d asked Tillis and Budd for $25.5 billion for North Carolina alone.
“They both tell us that they are 100% behind funding for this. It is critical that we have both sides of the aisle working very hard to get storm recovery. I want our state legislature to make sure that it does its part and that we show the federal government that we are willing to appropriate money at the state level as well, but we’ll see what Congress does,” Cooper told The Smoky Mountain News on Nov. 22. “I’m encouraged by the meetings that we had the day before yesterday, and yesterday. We spent two days in Washington on this issue, and I look forward to that success.”
Corbin, Hise and fellow senators Warren Daniel (R-Buncombe) and Tim Moffitt (RHenderson) attended the meetings by Zoom; Corbin acknowledged a figure “north of $20 billion” and gave more insight into why, exactly, the state hadn’t yet drained its Rainy Day Fund.
“Say Congress allocates $30 billion for North Carolina with a 10% match,” he said. “That’s $3 billion right there.”
Cooper and Corbin independently confirmed a timeline for congressional action that matches up with something Smathers said on Nov. 22.
“I think I’m cautiously optimistic that by Dec. 20 we’ll have a nice Christmas present for the deserving people of Western North Carolina,” he said.
Bob Scott photo
Community Almanac
Nominations open for Franklin’s recognition awards
The Franklin Chamber of Commerce announced that nominations are being accepted for four awards, Citizen of the Year, The Duke Power Citizenship and Service Award, Youth Citizenship Award and Club/Organization of the Year.
• The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes an individual who significantly contributes to the community and is an inspirational role model. This is the most coveted award given by the Chamber of Commerce.
• The Duke Power Citizenship and Service Award recognizes and rewards leadership and/or involvement in volunteerism and community services to an individual, team or group. Recipients of the award help foster a culture of citizenship and service that acts as a catalyst for others to become involved in civic and social activities.
• The Youth Citizenship Award recognizes a youth who has shown a strong interest in serving in their community and volunteering to help others.
• The Club/Organization of the Year Award is presented to the most outstanding club or Organization. The award is aimed at recognizing the club for its dedication and contribution in our community.
Nomination letters can be delivered to the Franklin Chamber of Commerce or emailed to facc@franklinchamber.com. Nomination deadline is Thursday, Jan. 16. The awards will be presented at the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet on Feb. 6, 2025, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.
Lake Logan hosts
Cold Mountain Christmas Craft Fair
Lake Logan announced its inaugural Cold Mountain Christmas Craft Fair, to be held from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14.
566 S. Haywood St. in Waynesville. There is no admission charge; however, there will be an offering collected from those willing to contribute toward the future endeavors of the choral society.
The theme of the concert is “Warmth and Wonder” which includes concert repertoire from exquisite art music of both sacred and secular genres to playful and familiar tunes. Notable composers of the concert music range from Mendelssohn to Whitacre, Poulenc and Forrest. There are seasonal favorites such as John Rutter's “Candlelight Carol” and Rachmaninoff's “Bogoroditse Devo” and newer music such as Sarah Quartel's “Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind and Ola Gjeilo's Tundra.” To round out the concert list, there may be some selections with a whimsical flare to brighten your holiday spirits.
The Haywood Choral Society of 70 choir members is under the direction of Don Kirkindoll, who is also the Director of Music and Worship Arts for the First United Methodist Church of Waynesville and is in his second season directing the Haywood Choral Society. In addition, the choral society is introducing Renee Allsbrook as its pianist in this, her first season. Allsbrook is the Music Director of Providence Church in Waynesville and is a musical composer/ arranger with several published works. Haywood Choral Society, formerly known as the Haywood Community Chorus, was established in 1997 as a means for community members to share their interests in performing a variety of challenging choral repertoire. Throughout the years, the chorus/ choral society has offered singers, musicians and audience members the opportunity to appreciate great classical works of past and present-day composers, as well as spiritual, folk, gospel and contemporary music.
Visitors can enjoy an afternoon of holiday shopping, pictures with Santa, cookie decorating with the Camp Henry elves, a Christmas carol sing-along and a concert featuring “The Moon and You” from 3-5 p.m.
Lake Logan is actively seeking local artisans to vend. The application may be found on the event page at lakelogan.org/event/cold-mountain-christmas-craft-fair.
All proceeds support the non-profit programs and ministries of Lake Logan, Camp Henry, and The Outdoor School.
Hospitals celebrate service award recipients
Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospital held a special luncheon honoring significant career milestones in the tenure of staff members and providers at both hospitals and physician practices.
Service awards for staff and providers are typically given on a monthly or bi-monthly basis,
depending upon the timeframe for staff anniversaries. Individuals are honored for their service in 5-year increments.
Those honored at this month’s celebration included:
• 5 Years of Service: Kacey Baines, CNA, Medical/Surgical Unit; Meg Balamut, Administration; Jamie Booze, RN, Nursing Administration; Kim Crawford, MA, Harris Medical Associates; Shana Lambert, RN, Labor & Delivery; Arielle Lankford, NP, Swain Family Care; Emily Ratchford, CMA, Harris Medical Associates; Dr. Angela Riccio, Harris Family Care.
• 10 Years of Service: Angie Jones, Human Resources/People Services.
• 15 Years of Service: Jennifer McMahan, RT, Respiratory Therapy; Amie Snyder, Harris Pulmonary Associates.
• 20 Years of Service: Kelly Brown, Sleep Lab; Loretta Sequoyah, Mammography.
• 30 Years of Service: Misty Williams, Laboratory; Beth Dixon, MD, Harris Medical Associates.
• 40 Years of Service: Rita Moss, NP, Hospitalist Services.
Sylva Social announces grand opening
Join Sylva business leaders for a special ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration for Sylva Social. The event will take place from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4. Sylva Social is located at 582
West Main St. in Sylva. RSVP by Monday, Dec. 2, by calling the chamber at 828.586.2155 or emailing jacksonchamberteam@gmail.com. This event is open to the public, but RSVPs are encouraged.
Long’s Chapel hosts Christmas Jubilee
Join Long’s Chapel for a Christmas Jubilee from 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20. Guests will be transported to Bethlehem to experience a culturally rich celebration that will allow immersion in the spirit of Christmas with food and live music. Guests can make a craft, marvel at indoor nativity scenes and meet friendly animals.
The Bethlehem Marketplace will offer fair trade, handmade and locally sourced Christmas gifts. Proceeds will directly support missions and local community non-profit programs.
Connect with the community, create lasting memories with family and discover the true meaning of Christmas at the Long’s Chapel Christmas Jubilee.
Haywood Choral Society presents winter concert
Haywood Choral Society will present its first concert of the 2024-2025 season at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8, at First United Methodist Church,
The chorus is sponsored in part by The Junaluskans, the Haywood Arts Council, the Haywood Choral Society Angels and a Grassroots Grant from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Franklin welcomes Anna Maria Bridal
The Franklin Chamber of Commerce welcomed Anna Maria Bridal with a ribbon cutting celebration.
Anna Maria Bridal is located at 670 Highlands Road in Franklin and is owned by Connie Millsaps and Lacy Millsaps.
“Anna Maria Bridal is a local bridal boutique in Franklin, NC, that offers a personal experience,” Connie Milsaps said. “We have beautiful designer gowns, mother of the bride gowns and offer tuxedo rentals, as well. We strive to make every bride that comes through our door feel like the only bride in the world. We are open Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday by appointment only. We receive walk-in appointments, but appointments are preferred.”
For appointments, call or text the shop at 828.342.1826 or message through Facebook or Instagram at @annamariabridal. Customers can also send an email to annamariabridal@gmail.com.
The meaningful moments that make memories
(I started writing a Thanksgiving column, paused a moment, did a Google search and realized that I had shared this memory 10 years ago. It was published in this newspaper on Dec. 3, 2014. Hope it’s still worth a read.)
Moments, mostly the ones unplanned, are the stuff of important and lasting life memories.
We had a great Thanksgiving day with our daughter Hannah, son Liam and family in Asheville. My wife Lori and her sister Julie had planned the meal for some time and all turned out as we had hoped.
I left for the office Friday with Lori and Hannah snuggled on the couch watching an old Audrey Hepburn film because, well, that’s what my girls do on vacation days. On Saturday morning, we went skiing early at Cataloochee to get in some first-of-the-season runs before the holiday weekend crowds jammed the lift lines. The snow was perfect and we all gushed once again about how lucky we are to have such a great ski mountain so close to home.
Afterward we stuck to tradition and traveled to Nesbitt’s Farm to get a Christmas tree, picking through most every sample before finally deciding on one that was way too big for our little house. After decorating the tree on Sunday morning and seeing Hannah off to Appalachian State, Lori and I decided on a walk around Lake Junaluska.
It was nearly sunset and the ducks and other waterfowl were seemingly in the same holiday tizzy as the shoppers had been on Black Friday. We made the rose walk just as the lake turned a bright gold, the reflection prompting both Lori and me to reach up and drop our sunglasses back over our eyes. The wakes made by the ducks were exaggerated in the waning light, and the shimmering water danced with the v-shaped ripples. It
Have we lost our way, America?
To the Editor:
As I ponder the implications of the presidential election, I have to ask myself and I ask you to think about what the outcome means in the larger context of our values as a nation.
I grew up in a home where our entire family was deeply involved in the practice of our faith. Love of God and care for others was at the core of our upbringing. Central to our values was the love and compassion demonstrated in the parable of the Good Samaritan and the answer to the question of “who is my neighbor?” Also central to our beliefs is the message of Matthew 25, where it is clear that our stewardship of God’s gifts requires compassion for all others. Jesus puts no conditions on His love; we are called to do the same.
At home and at school, I was taught that honesty matters. Like all midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy, I lived by the Honor Code — it is wrong to lie, cheat or steal. I served 26 years in the U.S. Marine Corps where decisions are based on core values of honor, courage and commitment. One of the key leadership traits for Marines is integrity. Given the precepts that shaped my life, how can I rationalize the results of the presi-
was, very simply, a beautiful sight. One of those moments. And it took me back. Probably because it was Thanksgiving, a time when as a child I ventured into a place and time now long gone, a place that was mostly gone even then save for a few pockets. Now I’m thankful that the remnant of the old South I got to experience had somehow been preserved, even in the 1970s. It was almost a half century ago, but the memory is as sharp as a winter wind.
On that long ago day, we woke before daylight, my cousin, my uncle, me and my two older brothers. Cousin Charlie did the waking and we shuffled to the kitchen and gathered round the small table, lacing up boots and talking in whispers. My aunt was there dishing up biscuits, sausage and eggs, with all but the flour coming from the animals and garden out back. There was the aroma of strong coffee percolating on an ancient electric oventop. Cigarette smoke blanketed everything.
As always, I couldn’t help staring at my aunt’s missing fingers as she served us, something she often smiled and called me out on. She was a sewer at the local mill and some years ago had lost from the knuckle up the middle two fingers on her right hand. Family lore was that she had stayed home just one day before clocking back in at her machine, bandages slowing production but not stopping her from making her numbers.
The birds began their morning song as we ate. We seldom went duck hunting when we visited our southeastern North Carolina relatives, but that was the plan on this day. I was
LETTERS
dential election? Even more importantly, how can I explain to a younger generation that we elected as our leader someone who routinely lies and demeans others? If this election normalizes that kind of behavior, how can we expect anyone to live by the values that are at the heart of every major faith tradition; values that are basic requirements for every member of our Armed Forces? Are actions which are unacceptable for you and me OK for the President?
As a Christian, I believe in an Awesome God who is all loving and all forgiving — not defined by any parameters set by me or anyone else; God’s love is far beyond anything our small minds can imagine. God asks us to accept others as they are — to accept others as we want to be accepted — we are all flawed and imperfect. Shame on us if we fail to honor that expectation. Shame on us if we don’t respect all life. If we focus on one issue like abortion but ignore the issues of poverty, homelessness, health care, immigration and the death penalty; if we fail to respond to challenges that affect all lives, can we truly call ourselves pro-life? Shame on us if we close our minds to these concerns.
Yes, there are a lot of issues that confront our nation. Certainly, there are no perfect candidates, but for all my neighbors, Christian or
deemed too young to carry a gun, but nonetheless the excitement was overwhelming.
We drove down dirt roads for what seemed hours, but the sun was just turning the cloud-streaked sky orange as we trundled out of the truck and grouped up around the open tailgate. I was freezing but wasn’t going to say a word to anyone. After loading shotguns and getting a lesson in how to keep spaced out and shooting only at an angle that wouldn’t endanger anyone on the ground, we began walking slowly along the edge of the marsh. There was a mist rising from the black water and farther out ancient cypress trees jutted into the morning sky.
I remember my uncle and my brother taking the first shots, breaking an overwhelming silence and then Charlie trying to track down the birds. Despite the cold, he went in water up to his thighs to retrieve them. The frigid marsh elicited an exaggerated whoop from my cousin as he thrashed about in the water, and more birds took to flight. I was laughing out loud as he turned in the water, raised his rifle quickly and gracefully and expertly took out another bird, this one falling over land.
I don’t remember eating those ducks, but that hunt is a treasured holiday memory. There are many other rabbit and bird hunting excursions that occurred during a small handful of holiday trips to my aunt and uncle’s house near the Pee Dee River. Those trips to a place of extended family, rivers, marshes, textile mills, of men driving vegetable-laden mule wagons to Saturday markets and much-anticipated holiday hunts are juxtaposed against a traditional suburban upbringing, making them stand out, touchstones from the past. That beauty and power of that memory seems a living thing. A moment. (Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com.)
not, who supported Donald Trump, I ask you to consider if his words and actions truly support the intent of the two great commandments — love of God and love of neighbor. I don’t believe Jesus put limits on that love. Do we?
Joe Buranosky Whittier
Destruction from the MAGA storm
To the Editor:
Helene brought destruction and chaos! Homes, businesses, cars, people washed away, roads and bridges washed out, people cut off from aid, etc. MAGA voters have brought a national storm upon us all and chaos is resulting.
Many in WNC claim to be Christians. MAGA voters, remember these words from Galatians 6a and b, “Do not be deceived. A man reaps what he sows.” You have been deceived and we’re all reaping what you’ve sown! Chaos is the reality in Washington.
PBS says the Trump campaign has not signed “agreements that would launch FBI background checks of nominees and other standard steps before confirmation hearings.” Trump wants “recess appointments” — the Senate would abandon “its Constitutional advise-and-consent role and allow his nominees to be installed without a vote.”
The Atlantic says that Trump’s nominees have two main attributes — loyalty (do exactly what he says) and loathing of the “deep state.” There is a storm/chaos in the GOPdominated House and Senate — he’s testing the limit of their resolve. Their decisions are critical because these nominees will oversee some of the most important functions of government.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is nominated for Health and Human Services Secretary. He would remove fluoride from drinking water, says that no vaccines are safe and effective and would not allow research on drugs and infectious diseases for eight years (CBS News). Lee Zelden, Trump’s choice for EPA Administrator, voted against certifying the 2020 election, the Inflation Reduction Act, clean water legislation a dozen times and clean air legislation at least a half dozen times. Zelden doubts the science of climate change. He supports Trump’s “drill baby drill.” A former Regional EPA Administrator said his environmental record is “abysmal” and that “the states are going to be on their own in terms of tackling environmental change.”
Will Trump’s unqualified appointees be able to warn us of the next devastating storm? Chris Wright, nominated to head the Department of Energy, is CEO
F
Editor Scott McLeod
Lessons from Noah’s flood — confessions of a progressive
After reading the point-counterpoint last week from David Lawson and Tom Powers, I was inspired to offer a third path forward. Having moved here last October from the suburbs of Atlanta, my husband and I have been blessed with the culture and kindness of everyone whose paths we have crossed. Having come to Lake Junaluska since the 1960s and 1970s, this place has always been my spiritual home, “Halfway to heaven.”
But our quick access to our glorious surroundings where we could view the stainedglass colors of fall leaves in a few minutes recently lay in stark contrast to the mountains of destroyed remnants of entire lives of our neighbors. And then, the character of Haywood Strong took action. Every group, every church, almost every person sprang immediately into serving their community in need. Cooking meals for the multitudes, miraculously turning a few loaves of bread into a feast. Providing every single need possible. Being the hands and feet of Christ. If the Bible says “We will know them from their fruits,” every single one of these proved their grit, strength, and their love and dedication to their neighbors.
That brings me to our most recent flood of political discontent — some might describe it as “Holy Discontent.” During these critical moments of life and death, not a single person that I heard asked someone in need, “Who are you voting for?” Republicans and Democrats alike both served and were served — no questions asked.
One thing that I have learned listening and hearing from those who helped bring about the surprising extent of victory is that many authentic Christians on both sides believe deeply that they are doing what God has told them to do. If that’s true, then God must be sending all a few lessons and blessings.
Our recent struggles in the United Methodist Church have taught me that no reconciliation can take place without first establishing relationships of trust. And trust cannot exist without mutual respect and humility. None of this currently exists in our attempts to move forward. No number of debates on policy and issues can be a source of solution — until these necessary steps are
of a fracking company and claims “there is no climate crisis” (Reuters).
Project 2025 will result in higher prices due to tariffs, elimination of the DOE, using the Justice Department to go after “enemies,” deporting those who build our houses, pick our crops, care for our lawns, and we’ll suffer from more frequent and devastating storms. When MAGA voters reap what
complete. We all “see through a glass darkly.” The problem is that we all have different blind spots. We can take this bright opportunity to reflect on our own. Garret K. Woodward, writer for The Smoky Mountain News, captured the essence of this last week: “The only way to grow as a human is to connect, especially with those you may disagree with. That’s real democracy.”
So what have been my lessons in reflecting on my own part in this divide?
• Good people who are deeply motivated to solve problems have drastically different perspectives that we all need to hear to understand.
• Both sides share deep pain and fear for the future.
• Establishing relationships based on trust is not as difficult as it may seem — if we go into conversations with respect and humility, ensured up front.
• Perception becomes reality. Despite the best intentions of progressives, seeking justice and grace for all, many hearing that message have been left feeling that their voices have not been heard. Sometimes people need to preach, but being a great pastor is what brings grace to all.
• We must reflect on and assess what we all have in common and begin to work together to start there, healing our world.
And now, you must stand by for “the rest of the story.”
Saturday morning after I had just completed my full read of The Smoky Mountain News, I was sitting in the library at Lake Junaluska writing thank-you notes to the many incredible staff who indeed worked miracles in the aftermath of Helene. Suddenly, a happy gentleman pulled a seat right in front of me to help. Got to love God’s humor. You guessed it. David Lawson, my neighbor from down the hill, whom I had just met for the first time, was here for me to practice what I preach. So, David, I have heard you, and I appreciate all that you have done to help our neighbors. I am thrilled that we both agree that working together is the only way forward to the unity that our God is seeking for us all. We are better together. “Let there be Peace on Earth.”
Donna
P. Fisher Lake Junaluska
they’ve sown will they join with us who will do all we can to resist the dictator?
Thanks to those who oppose this dictator and aren’t afraid to speak up. I say that the Republican Party is no more — it’s a personality cult worshipping Trump. Democracy’s being battered by the MAGA storm!
Gene Tunnell Cullowhee
CHRISTMAS IN APPALACHIA
BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & E NTERTAINMENT E DITOR
As the temperature drops in Western North Carolina, the fun only heats up. The holiday season here is filled with events and activities aimed to celebrate the best way we know how — with friends, family and visitors alike.
Families can partake in wagon rides, ice skating, craft sales and art demonstrations, all the while enjoying authentic mountain music, clogging and parades through several downtowns. These are just some of the innumerable activities.
Within every date, time and place found amid this section, the communities around the region once again open their arms to share in the winter festivities.
It’s a winter wonderland out there. It’s yours for the taking — so reach out and enjoy all Southern Appalachia has to offer.
Balsam
• Balsam Mountain Inn will host the “Balsam Christmas Concert” featuring Darren Nicholson & Shawn Lane (Americana/bluegrass) at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. Tickets are $30 per person. 828.283.0145 / thebalsammountaininn.com.
CITY
• “Polar Express” train ride will roll down the tracks on select dates from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot in downtown. For a complete listing of departure dates and times, 800.872.4681 or gsmr.com.
• “Christmas Wonderland” hayrides will be held at Darnell Farms through mid-December. Limited seating available. For a full schedule and/or to purchase tickets, visit darnellfarms.com.
• “Christmas Light Show Drive-Thru” is running everyday through the holidays at the Great Smoky Mountains Event Park, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. greatsmokies.com/events.
• “Ice Skating at The Yard” will be 4-8 p.m. Fridays and 1-8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays at The Yard on Depot Street. For more information, visit facebook.com/theyardbc.
• Christmas Tree Lighting will be at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, in downtown. Christmas caroling and a live nativity scene, with the lighting at 6 p.m. Free cookies and hot
cocoa, letters to Santa and more. Free and open to the public. greatsmokies.com/christmas.
• “Cookie Walk & Christmas Bazaar” starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Bryson City United Methodist Church on Main Street. greatsmokies.com/christmas.
• The 50th annual Bryson City Christmas Parade will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. This year’s theme is “The Wonder of Christmas.” Free and open to the public. greatsmokies.com/christmas.
Canton
• Canton Christmas Parade will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, in downtown. The parade features area school groups, high school bands, Christmas music, dance teams, churches and many local businesses, as well as horses, dogs, tractors, vintage cars and the flashing lights of our local emergency services. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be making a special appearance. Free and open to the public. cantonnc.com/winter-roundup.
• The fourth annual “Kris Kringle Holiday Market” will be held from 3-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Sorrells Street Park in downtown. Over 50 vendors will be in attendance. Photos also available with Santa Claus. Free and open to the public. milltownfarmersmarket.com/kringlemarket.
Sylva Christmas Parade will be Dec. 1. Nick Breedlove photo
‘Bourbon
This must be the place
BY GARRET K. WOODWARD
laughter, ghosts, history falls, to parking lots and shopping malls’
Thursday morning. Although the sunshine and blue skies over Western North Carolina seemed rather inviting, it was false pretense as I stepped out onto the front porch and realized that flip-flops were not the ideal choice to battle a cold mid-fall breeze across naked toes.
With laundry basket, detergent and liquid Lysol in-hand, I headed for the tiny laundry room within the small apartment building that houses all of my worldly possessions and that of my girlfriend, too. I’d been under the impression that the washer had been fixed. Upon further inspection, this was not the case, with the water from the supposed final wash before it broke still sitting in the machine.
Shit. Pick up the laundry basket, detergent and liquid Lysol and pack up the backseat of my pickup truck. Onward to the neighborhood laundromat in the Walnut Village Plaza. Putting the vehicle into park, I emerged with my hands full as I approached the front door of the establishment. “Closed. No Water” the crudely-drawn sign stated.
Shit. Pick up the laundry basket, detergent and liquid Lysol and pack up the backseat of my pickup truck. Onward to the other neighborhood laundromat in the Waynesville Plaza. Putting the vehicle into park, I emerged with my hands full as I approached the front door of the establishment. The door opened. Thank the lord.
Mosey on over to an open washer. Drop the basket and such. Head to the change machine with the last of our crumpled-up dollar bills, found hastily in my haphazard writing desk. But, not before noticing a stack of the latest issue of The Smoky Mountain News on a small bench near the coin machine. An issue full of words, stories, emotions and actions that I’d edited just two days earlier before kicking it out the door to the printer for society to consume.
Folks sitting, waiting, wishing. Sitting alone, either on the bench inside or the driver’s seat of their Hyundai Elantra outside. Waiting for their loads of dirty clothes to come to completion, only to do it again the same time next week and the week after that. Wishing to be anywhere but here, maybe that beach they remember fondly from their youth, the one with no tourists and just memories.
Instead of wasting away from boredom and the oscillation of the washing machines, they reach for a copy of this here publication. Open the newspaper and read about some scruffy writer’s adventures under the article banner “This Must Be the Place.” A
photo of a young face with a black beard next to the headline.
The same face in the periodical now standing next to them, unbeknownst to the reader waiting for the second cycle of the dryer to finish. Though these days, the writer’s face sports a lot of white hair and well-earned wrinkles from endless wander-
ing and pondering across this great land of America. That same writer using the change machine and also sitting, waiting, wishing. Back and forth between the humble abode and the laundromat, seeing as I still need to pack for an impending road trip. This time up to rural Kentucky for a couple of assignments. One for our sister publication, Smoky Mountain Living magazine. The other for The Bluegrass Situation, a national music website based in Los Angeles, the payment of said assignment to pay my bills next month.
Finally, after an hour-and-a-half, I was able to retrieve the laundry. Warm-to-thetouch running clothes, socks, boxers, Tshirts and whatever else has been tossed in haste into the dirty laundry basket. At the apartment, pull the luggage bag out of the closet. Fold up the running clothes, socks, boxes, T-shirts and whatever else one needs for a weekend on the road, on assignment. Grab the toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental floss and cotton swabs. Washcloth and bar of soap. Nail clippers and earplugs for whatever loud concert I may find myself attending, either on purpose or by happenstance. Don’t forget the new book I’ve recently cracked open (“The Silver Snarling Trumpet: The Birth of The Grateful Dead” by Robert Hunter) and the old-standby that remains by my side through every trial and tribulation of my life since I first purchased it in college and dove in mightily (“The Dharma Bums” by Jack Kerouac). Throw it all somewhat neatly in the backseat of the pickup truck. Have to stop and fill
HOT PICKS
1
The annual “Stecoah Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour” will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 2930 at featured studios in Bryson City, Stecoah and Robbinsville.
2
Sylva Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Concert will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, in front of the Historic Jackson County Courthouse on West Main Street.
3
Balsam Mountain Inn (Balsam) will host the “Balsam Christmas Concert” featuring Darren Nicholson & Shawn Lane (Americana/ bluegrass) at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30.
4
The 37th annual “Hard Candy Christmas” arts/crafts show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 29-30 inside the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.
5
The Franklin Christmas Parade will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, in downtown.
up the gas tank before I leave town. Oh, and remember to snag the laptop charger and cell-phone charger. Sunglasses and road snacks. Bottles of water and pack of gum.
Clean laundry and perfectly arranged luggage. A full tank of gas and endless adventures, known and unknown, just beyond the horizon of my current position. Don’t forget to kiss the exquisite woman holding down the fort while I’m away. Make sure to assure her that you’ll drive safely and call her when you arrive at the hotel.
Be appreciative of the fleeting moment at hand. Remember how you felt and what you saw. Write it all down to capture it as quickly as it appears and disappears. The wild, wondrous sense of one’s reality on the cusp of the next unwritten chapter of existence.
Thanksgiving Day is nearly upon us. Thoughts of hot cocoa and snowflakes, ice skating and skiing, decorating a tree and maybe a trip to the Grove Park Inn for the annual gingerbread competition all provide a calming sense of self and of my surroundings, albeit for a brief window of time.
The world is uncertain right now. And will remain so for the foreseeable future. I remain an eternal optimist, one with hot cocoa in-hand and sugarplum dreams of a better tomorrow, together.
The holidays are a time to reflect on this past year, for good or ill. Do so in your own ways and means. Do so with grace and civility. Lend a hand. Give a hug. And don’t forget to water the tree.
Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all.
The Waynesville Plaza Laundromat. Garret K. Woodward photo
Dillsboro’s ‘Lights & Luminaries’
The 41st annual “Lights & Luminaries” will return from 5-9 p.m. Dec. 6-7 and 13-14 in the streets of downtown Dillsboro.
Experience the magic as the entire town is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter and song. Over 2,500 luminaries light your way to shops and studios.
Each night, shops will stay open way into the night providing free refreshments, musicians and singers performing in individual shops. --The sound of hooves will echo through the night with oldfashioned horse and buggy rides.
With retail shops offering a variety of quality arts and crafts, unique gifts, clothing, gourmet foods/wines and specialty Christmas items, the festival provides a unique holiday shopping experience.
Shopkeepers and restaurants are open late. See Santa and Mrs. Claus as they ride through town in their pickup truck. Write a letter to Santa and drop it off at his special mailbox. Live music will also be held on Front Street.
Free and open to the public. For more information, visit dillsboronc.info.
Cashiers
• “Mistletoe Market,” “Santa On The Green” and Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting will be held from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, on The Village Green. The “Mistletoe Market” will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with “Santa On The Green” 2-5 p.m. and the Cashiers Christmas Tree Lighting from 5:45-6:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. discoverjacksonnc.com.
• The 50th annual Cashiers Christmas Parade will be held from 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. The one-mile parade route starts on N.C. 107 South and heads north towards the Cashiers Crossroads where participants are announced to the crowd. The parade then turns left on U.S. 64 heading west, ending at the intersection of Frank Allen Road at the Cashiers Community Center. Free and open to the public. discoverjacksonnc.com.
Cherokee
• “Enchanted Island Of Lights” will be shown 5-10 p.m. each day through Jan. 3 at the Oconaluftee Island Park. visitcherokeenc.com/events.
• “Ice Skating & Food Trucks” will be offered Dec. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 at the Cherokee Islands. visitcherokeenc.com/events.
• Cherokee Christmas Parade will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Cherokee Visitor Center. Free and open to the public. visitcherokeenc.com/events.
Clyde
• The “Home for the Holidays” concert with the Blue Ridge Orchestra will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the auditorium in the Hemlock Building at
Haywood Community College. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for students. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Haywood Strong program. The scholarship supports students that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene. For tickets, visit givebutter.com/3kndnb.
Cullowhee
• The 37th annual “Hard Candy Christmas” arts/crafts show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 29-30 inside the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University. This mountain tradition started in 1987 and has grown to over 100 regional artisans. Admission is $5 for a two-day pass. Children under 12 are free. Parking is also free. mountainartisans.net.
• “The Nutcracker,” featuring Ballet Conservatory of Asheville, will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, in the Bardo Arts Center Performance Hall at Western Carolina University. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit arts.wcu.edu/tickets.
Franklin
• “Winter Wonderland Nights” will be held Nov. 30 and Dec. 7. Downtown will feature living window displays of the holidays, live sounds of the season outdoors at the gazebo and inside stores, free holiday attractions (weather permitting), refreshments, hot cider, great sales from local merchants and more. franklin-chamber.com/events/winter-wonderland.
• The Franklin Christmas Parade will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, in downtown. The parade floats will line up on Church Street entering Main Street through the Franklin Town Hall parking lot. The parade will continue down
‘Lights & Luminaries’ returns to Dillsboro Dec. 6. JCTDA photo
Main Street, turning left onto Porter Street at Lazy Hiker Brewing. Turning left again onto Palmer Street at the red light, the parade will end at the Highlands Road intersection. franklin-chamber.com/events.
• “Christmas with Mountain Voices” concert will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, at the First United Methodist Church. The mixed-voice Community Chorus will help us “Swing into Christmas” with secular and sacred songs of the season. Free to the public. Donations welcome. franklinchamber.com/events.
• “Three Times A Lady” Christmas concert will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $15 per person. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit smokymountainarts.com.
• “Cowee Christmas” will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center. The event will include a snowball fight, lunch, holiday cheer, kids activities and a visit from Santa. Free and open to the public. coweeschool.org/events.
• “Christmas At The Cove” will be held from 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at The Cove. Pictures with Santa, hot cocoa, mulled cider, s’more, fire pit and holiday crafts. Free and open to the public. franklinchamber.com/events.
• Brasstown Ringers will present “Caroling Bells” at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at the First United Methodist Church. Free and open to the public. Donations welcome. franklin-chamber.com/events.
• “Once Upon A Christmas Star” stage production will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 13-14 at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts. Presented by the Overlook Theatre Company and friends, the story will be told through traditional/sacred songs, dance and more. Tickets are $15 per person in advance. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit smokymountainarts.com.
• “Christmas With Mark Lowry & Friends” will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets start at $28 per person with seating upgrades available. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit smokymountainarts.com.
Highlands
• Mark O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas” featuring Maggie O’Connor will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $75 per person. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit highlandsperformingarts.com.
Christmas activities, ice skating rink and a special appearance by Santa. highlandschamber.org.
• “Home For The Holidays” stage production will run Dec. 6-22 at the Highlands
‘Christmas at Lake Junaluska’
A beloved annual tradition, the “Christmas at Lake Junaluska” celebration will be held Dec. 13-15 at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center. Enjoy carriage and trolley rides, Christmas lights, a hot chocolate bar, marshmallow roasts, music, a special service and more.
• “Holly Jolly Trolley Tour” from 4-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the York Dining Commons. Join Jolly Elf as you tour the lake in the Holly Jolly Trolley. Enjoy festive Christmas lights, an onboard scavenger hunt, music, hot cocoa, cider, a marshmallow roast and more.
• “Festival of Lessons and Carols” at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Memorial
Chapel. Feel the spirit of Advent and Christmas this holiday season during Festival of Lessons and Carols, a one-hour traditional English service featuring Scripture readings and corresponding music.
• “Carriage Rides” from 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Harrell Center. Enjoy a scenic ride on a horse-drawn carriage that offers mountain views and the lakeside Rose Walk decorated for the holidays, a marshmallow roast, hot chocolate bar and more.
For more information and a full schedule of activities, visit lakejunaluska.com/eventscalendar/christmas-lake-junaluska.
Performing Arts Center. Presented by the Mountain Theatre Company. For a full schedule and/or to purchase tickets, visit mountaintheatre.com.
• The Olde Mountain Christmas Parade will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 7, on Main Street. highlandschamber.org.
• “Santa In The Park” will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 7, 14 and 21 at KelseyHutchinson Founders Park in downtown. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.
• “Holiday Market” will be from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at The Bascom Center for Visual Arts. Free and open to the public. thebascom.org.
Maggie Valley
• The annual “Holiday Boutique & Bake Sale” will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Maggie Valley United Methodist Church. Find new and gently used clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry, decor, Christmas items and unique gifts. Last year, the event raised $9,000 to fund two longstanding food ministries: Shepherd’s Table and the Food Pantry. Each Monday, Shepherd’s Table volunteers cook and deliver nutritious meals to 135 people in our community. The Food Pantry (open 10 a.m. to noon Mondays and Wednesdays) provides much needed groceries to the food insecure. This year, the need is even greater because of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. For more information, call 828.926.8036.
• The “Sounds of the Season” concert with the Haywood Community Band will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec, 14, at the
‘Christmas at Lake Junaluska’ will be Dec. 13-15. File photo
Mark O’Connor’s ‘An Appalachian Christmas’ will be in Highlands Nov. 29. File photo
Calvary Baptist Church. Free and open to the public. Donations accepted to provide scholarships to student musicians attending college and band camps. haywoodcommunityband.com.
Robbinsville
• Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center will host a bevy of holiday events, including “Have Breakfast With Santa” (including cookie decoration and ornament craft) from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 ($8 per person, bring your own camera). The “Christmas in the Mountains” art/craft show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Presented by the local community choir,, a Christmas cantata “A Carol To The King” will take place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 (free admission). The Stecoah Artisan Gallery will offer its handcrafted Christmas gift options onsite from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Saturday, Dec. 21 (a special gallery open house will be Tuesday, Dec. 17). For more information, 828.479.3364 or stecoahvalleycenter.com.
Sylva
• Sylva Christmas Tree Lighting and “Holiday Concert” will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, in front of the Historic Jackson County Courthouse on West Main Street. The “Holiday Fireworks” will take place at 7:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. discoverjacksonnc.com.
• Sylva Christmas Parade will be held from 3-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, on Main Street. The parade takes place along Historic Main Street for celebration, cheer and a chance to see Santa. The floats start and end at Mark Watson Park after a loop through town. Free and open to the public. discoverjacksonnc.com.
• “Yuletide Market” will be held from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at Bridge Park. Crafts, caroling, food, s’mores and more. Free and open to the public. discoverjacksonnc.com.
Waynesville
• Waynesville Christmas Parade will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, on Main Street. The theme this year is “Mountain Traditions.” Parade starts at First Presbyterian Church and proceeds down Main Street to Bogart’s Restaurant. downtownwaynesville.com.
• “A Charlie Brown Christmas Musical Extravaganza” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 13, 2 p.m. Dec. 7 and 14 and 5 p.m. Dec. 8 and 15 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit harttheatre.org or call the box office at 828.456.6322.
• “A Kilted Christmas” concert with Eireann’s Call will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center. The show features the band’s unique and powerful take on Christmas throughout the Celtic world. Songs range from driving rock to the sacred and from rollicking dance tunes to the hilarious. The family friendly event features dancers and a dramatic/humorous narrative to create a memorable event. Admission is pay what you can, starting at $15 per person. Donations welcome. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit folkmoot.org or call 828.452.2997.
• “A Smoky Mountain Christmas Celebration” will be held from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, in downtown Waynesville. Hundreds of Luminaries, live music, clogging, church choirs, Santa & Mrs. Claus, storytelling, holiday treats/beverages and more. For a full list of participants and events, visit downtownwaynesville.com.
• The fourth annual “Holiday Night Market” will be held 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Axe & Awl Leatherworks on Depot Street in downtown. Free and open to the public. axeandawlleatherworks.com.
On the street
Stecoah Drive-About Tour
The annual “Stecoah Arts & Crafts Drive-About Tour” will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 29-30 at featured studios in Bryson City, Stecoah and Robbinsville.
With their studios open to the public, the self-guided driving tour highlights artisans who have built a livelihood with their creative talents. Media include pottery, beeswax lanterns and pillar candles, original paintings/drawings, fiber, quilts, photography, honey, mead and more.
The tour includes: Wehrloom Honey & Meadery, Hunting Boy Wood Carving, Marie’s Lavender Farm, The Shed Gallery, Junk N’ Style, Stecoah Artisans Gallery, Local Handmade Pottery, The Village Merchant, Sharla Kauffman Pottery and Gallery Zella.
For more information, 828.479.3364 or stecoahvalleycenter.com.
On the table
• Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will have its wine bar open 4-8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 828.452.6000 / classicwineseller.com.
• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host semi-regular tap-takeovers from local and regional breweries on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / blueridgebeerhub.com.
• “Flights & Bites” will be held starting at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville. waynesvillewine.com.
• “Take A Flight” with four new wines every Friday and Saturdays at the Bryson City Wine Market. Select from a gourmet selection of charcuterie to enjoy with your wines. Educational classes and other events are also available. 828.538.0420.
• “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. 800.872.4681 / gsmr.com.
A work from potter Sharla Kauffman. File photo
CHRISTMAS, CONTINUED FROM 27
Bryson City Christmas Parade will be Dec. 7. File photo
On the beat
Bluegrass legends to play Balsam Mountain Inn
play
Featuring bluegrass legends Shawn Lane & Darren Nicholson, the “Balsam Christmas Concert” will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Balsam Mountain Inn.
Lane is three-time Grammynominee and 28-time International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) award-winner with iconic group Blue Highway. He has also toured and recorded with Alison Krauss, Willie Nelson, Kenny Chesney, Lee Ann Womack, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Dan Tyminski, Doyle Lawson, Larry Sparks and many more.
A Grammy-nominee and winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards, Nicholson has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world.
A regular for years on the Grand Ole Opry and a founding member of acclaimed bluegrass group Balsam Range, Nicholson now spends his time recording, writing new songs and performing as a solo act.
Tickets are $30 per person. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to thebalsammountaininn.com or call 828.283.0145.
Americana, folk at Mountain Layers
Jackson County Americana/folk duo Bird in Hand will perform at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29, at Mountain Layers Brewing Company in Bryson City.
The road less traveled has always been the way for husband-and-wife duo Bird in Hand. Bryan and Megan Thurman call the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina home, and the region is directly reflected in their music. Bird in Hand is upbeat and new while still rooted in the traditions of American folk.
The two have played all over the Appalachian region, as well as across the country, and share an onstage chemistry that demands attention. They need to be seen live to understand the meaning of “Appalachian Thunder Folk.”
You can find their debut EP, “Due North,” online at birdinhandmusic.com. The show is free and open to the public. For more information, go to mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.
• Balsam Mountain Inn (Balsam) will host an “Open Jam” 6 p.m. every Tuesday and the “Balsam Christmas Concert” featuring Darren Nicholson & Shawn Lane (Americana/bluegrass) 7 p.m. Nov. 30. Tickets are $30 per person. 828.283.0145 / thebalsammountaininn.com.
• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host Paul Koptak (singer-songwriter) Dec. 7. All shows begin at 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / blueridgebeerhub.com.
• Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host Ben & The Borrowed Band (Americana/country) Nov. 30 and Jesse Velvet (Americana/rock) Dec. 7. All shows are located in The Gem downstairs taproom and begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.0350 / boojumbrewing.com.
• Cataloochee Ranch (Maggie Valley) will host Lydia Hamby 5 p.m. Dec. 13. For tickets and reservations, go to cataloocheeranch.com/ ranch-events/live-music.
• Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Orchard Sessions” on select dates. All shows begin at 6 p.m. 866.526.8008 / oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.
ALSO:
• Folkmoot Friendship Center (Waynesville) will host “A Kilted Christmas” w/Eireann’s Call (Celtic/world) 7 p.m. Dec. 12. Admission is pay what you can, starting at $15 per person. Donations welcome. 828.452.2997 / folkmoot.org.
• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Jazz On The Level 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday, Alma Russ (Americana/folk) Nov. 27, Lydia Hamby & Company Nov. 29 and Simple Folk Quartet Nov. 30. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 / froglevelbrewing.com.
• Happ’s Place (Glenville) will host Dillion & Co. Nov. 29, Doug Ramsey (singer-songwriter) Nov. 30 and Rock Holler Dec. 7. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.742.5700 / happsplace.com.
• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience (classic rock) 8 p.m. Dec. 13 and Colter Wall (Americana/country) 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14. For tickets, go to caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee.
• Highlander Mountain House (Highlands) will host “Blues & Brews” on Thursday evenings, “Sunday Bluegrass Residency” from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and the “Salon Series” w/The Secret Sisters (Americana) 8:30 p.m. Dec. 19 ($50 per person). 828.526.2590 / highlandermountainhouse.com.
• Highlands Performing Arts Center will host Mark O’Connor’s “An Appalachian Christmas” w/Maggie O’Connor (Americana/bluegrass) 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29 ($75 per person). 828.526.9047 / highlandsperformingarts.com.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host The V8s (rock/oldies) Nov. 30 and Fancy & The Gentlemen (Americana/blues) Dec. 7. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host “Music Bingo” 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Flashback Fringe (rock/psychedelic) Nov. 29 and Fancy & The Gentlemen (Americana/blues) Dec. 6. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• Listening Room (Franklin) will host Lara Herscovitch 2:30 p.m. Dec. 8. Suggested donation $20. Located at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.
• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host “Open Mic Night” w/Frank Lee every Wednesday, Bird In Hand (Americana/folk) Nov. 29 and Ron Neill (singer-songwriter) Nov. 30. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 / mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.
• Otto Community Center (Otto) will host James Thompson (Americana) 6 p.m. Dec. 6. Bring a beverage and snack of your choice. Free and open to the public. 770.335.0967 / go2ottonc.com.
• Peacock Performing Arts Center (Hayesville) will host “A Little Piece Of The Holidays” w/Karla Harris & The Tyrone Jackson Quintet 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7. For tickets, 828.389.ARTS / thepeacocknc.org.
• Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host Karaoke 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Trivia Night 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Dave Dexter (singersongwriter) Nov. 29 and Michael Kitchens Nov. 30. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.369.6796 / facebook.com/rathskellercoffeebarandpub.
• Scotsman (Waynesville) will host Celtic Road Jam (Celtic/world) 4 p.m. Nov. 30 and Smashing Mouths (rock/alternative) Dec. 6. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 / scotsmanpublic.com.
• Slanted Window Tasting Station (Franklin) will host “Thanksgiving Eve Party” w/Blue Jazz (blues/jazz) 5 p.m. Nov. 27 and Ray Ferrara (singer-songwriter) 6 p.m. Nov. 29. 828.276.9463 / slantedwindow.com.
• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host the “Three Times A Lady” Christmas concert 7 p.m. Dec. 6. 866.273.4615 / smokymountainarts.com.
• Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host Rock Holler Nov. 29, Topper Nov. 30, Karaoke Night w/Lori Dec. 5 (free), Tricia Ann Band Dec. 6 and Blackwater Station Dec. 7. All shows are $5 at the door unless otherwise noted and begin at 8 p.m. 828.538.2488 / unpluggedpub.com.
Shawn Lane will
Balsam Nov. 30. Wayne Ebinger photo
Bird in Hand will play Bryson City Nov. 29. File photo
WCU student art showcase
The “Bachelor of Fine Art Portfolio Exhibition” will be displayed through Dec. 6 at the Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum in Cullowhee.
Featuring the works of WCU’s graduating seniors from the School of Art & Design, this exhibition highlights their comprehensive course of study at WCU’s School of Art & Design and serves as a preface to their forthcoming careers as professional artists.
The art portfolios — which include paintings, photography, ceramics, installation art and other mediums — explore a wide range of topics including isolation, community, the intersection of faith/life and the destruction of Hurricane Helene and Maria.
For more information, go to wcu.edu/bardo-arts-center.
Haywood Arts to offer Helene support grants
The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) in Waynesville has announced the launch of the HCAC Helene Support Grant.
Designed to provide financial assistance to HCAC artist members who have been significantly impacted by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the application process is currently underway. Funding will range from $300 to $1,500.
The Helene Support Grant is intended for individual artists, providing critical relief as they recover from the storm’s impact on their lives and livelihoods. Eligible artists must be active members of the HCAC as of September 2024 and must be working in one of the following artistic fields: craft, literary, media, performing, visual or interdisciplinary arts. Eligibility Criteria:
• Applicants must be an HCAC artist member as of
• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host “ArtWorks” at 1 p.m. every second Thursday of the month. Come create your own masterpiece. The materials for art works are supplied and participants are welcome to bring ideas and supplies to share with each other. Free and open to the public. 828.488.3030 / vroberson@fontanalib.org.
• “Art & Artisan Walk” will be held from 5-8 p.m. every third Thursday of the month (May-December) in Bryson City. Stroll the streets in the evening and discover handcrafted items, artwork, jewelry, pottery, antiques and more. Look for the yellow and blue balloons identifying participating businesses hosting artists.
HCAC ‘Small Works’ exhibit
The Haywood County Arts Council’s (HCAC) “Small Works” exhibit will run through Dec. 31 at the HCAC Gallery & Gifts showroom in downtown Waynesville.
The annual exhibit that expands the types of work for sale in the downtown Waynesville gallery, as well as who can display their work. Other than specially curated exhibits, which occur a couple times annually, this exhibit is the only one that allows any artist within the western mountain region to participate for a small fee.
With dozens of artists participating, the exhibit promises to be eclectic. Although the only requirement is that the pieces be 12 inches in any dimension or smaller, HCAC challenged participants who are making holiday themed works to consider artistic expressions that are multicultural in nature and celebrate the many different holidays — ways of celebrating and ways of experiencing holidays.
For more information, go to haywoodarts.org.
September 2024 and be 18 years of age.
• Available to artists and creatives who have experienced loss due to Hurricane Helene, including loss of a studio, home, supplies or income.
• Applicants must have been affected by Hurricane Helene.
• This grant is intended for individual artists; nonprofits are not eligible for this opportunity.
The HCAC is committed to supporting local artists who contribute so much to the cultural fabric of our mountain community. With these funds, artists can begin to recover and rebuild after the storm’s devastation.
For more details about the Helene Support Grant and to submit an application, please visit haywoodarts.org/grants-funding or contact the HCAC at director@haywoodarts.org.
greatsmokies.com.
• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host an adult arts and crafts program at 1 p.m. every second Thursday of the month. Ages 16 and up. Space is limited to 10 participants. Free and open to the public. 828.488.3030 / vroberson@fontanalib.org.
• CRE828 (Waynesville) will offer a selection of art classes and workshops at its studio located at 1283 Asheville Road. Workshops will include art journaling, watercoloring, mixed media, acrylic painting and more. For a full list of classes, go to cre828.com. dawn@cre828.com / 828.283.0523.
• Gallery Zella (Bryson City) will be hosting an array of artist receptions, exhibits and
Waynesville art walk, live music
A cherished gathering of locals and visitors alike, the final “Art After Dark” of the year will take place from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, in downtown Waynesville.
Each first Friday of the month (May-December), 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.
showcases. The gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. galleryzella.com / 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 ideas and images at the monthly meetings. waynesvillephotoclub@charter.net.
• Haywood County Arts Council (Waynesville) will offer a wide range of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. haywoodarts.org.
• Jackson County Green Energy Park (Dillsboro) will be offering a slew of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. jcgep.org.
• Southwestern Community College Swain Arts Center (Bryson City) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. southwesterncc.edu/scc-locations/swain-center.
• Dogwood Crafters in Dillsboro will offer a selection of upcoming art classes and workshops. dogwoodcrafters.com/classes / 828.586.2248.
• Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host semi-regular arts and crafts workshops. coweeschool.org/events.
Richard Baker is a featured artisan at ‘Art After Dark.’ File photo
Wesley Bowers is an HCAC member. File photo
Some Christmas books for the little ones
With Thanksgiving touching down so late in November, Christmas and Hannukah will likely slip up fast on celebrants this year. So, to push the holiday spirit along, let’s look at some new books to consider as gifts for the little ones this year. Suppose Santa Claus brought all those presents to good little boys and girls everywhere, but didn’t have a Christmas himself? No tree, no holiday cookies, no festive meal? In “Santa’s First Christmas” (Viking Books, 40 pages, 2024), Mac Barnett and illustrator Sydney Smith answer those questions for the ages 3-7 set. The elves step up on Christmas Day and give St. Nick everything from a tree to cookies to gifts to celebrate the occasion.
sounds like angels singing above shepherds and a manger.
This year Hannukah begins on December 25, so there’s still lots of time for parents to get a copy of “My First Hannukah Coloring Book for Kids” (Independently published, 2024, 82 pages). Produced by several illustrators and writers, this coloring book will not only please the crayon crew, but also includes lots of age-appropriate information about the traditions and celebration of Hannukah.
Maggie C. Rudd and illustrator Elisa Chavarri walk children through the post-holiday return to normal in “The Days After Christmas” (Farrar, Stauss, and Giroux, 2024, 40 pages).
that drift through your head.
You might think of your family, of magic and cheer, and you whisper, ‘Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.’”
In “To Mimi’s House We Go” (Tommy Nelson, 2024, 32 pages), we follow different families as they set off to visit Grandma at Christmas. Susan Meissner and artist Mette Engell fly their young readers south for a Florida Christmas, go into the snow and ice up north by train, travel by subway to the other side of the city, and more, all with the aim of joining Mimi on Christmas Day. The rhythm of the words — each trip to see Grandma is celebrated with a poem — and Engell’s sweet illustrations make this a delightful book both for the kids and their grandmothers.
“No matter what you call your Mimi— Gaga or Yaya or Nana or Gigi, Meemaw or Oma or maybe Granny, Amah or Grandma or even Grammy— no journey’s too long, no distance too far to go where she lives, by plane, train, or car.”
Illustrated by Laura Ramos, “Sounding Joy” (B&H Kids, 2022, 24 pages) opens with questions: “What does joy sound like? Does it sound like falling snow?” Author and award-winning songwriter Ellie Holcomb created this board book for toddlers and preschoolers to read like a song. The sweet story ends with the revelation that joy
“In the days after Christmas when you wake up in your bed and holiday memories float through your head ….”
Of course, there are many classic Christmas stories to share with your younger ones, books like Gloria Houston’s “The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story,” Susan Wojciechiwski’s “The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey,” Chris Van Allsburg’s “The Polar Express,” Tomie dePaola’s “The Legend of the Poinsettia,” and so many others. For more holiday book suggestions for the 3-8 years old in your life, ask at your local bookstore or library.
For some children, these are the doldrum days when Mom and Dad pack up the decorations and Christmas tree ornaments, and give the house a bit of a cleaning. Rudd provides some creative ways to enjoy these activities, while Chavarri’s bright art adds to the fun. Included too are directions for making birdseed ornaments and some other postChristmas ideas, like gathering old toys to give to your local donation center. Rudd also encourages children to spend time outdoors, always good cold weather advice for kids and adults.
“And then in the evening when you lie in your bed, you smile at the memories
And don’t forget read-aloud books that can bring your family evenings of cozy entertainment. There’s “A Christmas Carol,” of course, and O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi,” but other less wellknown stories offer some beautiful messages for the season, like Natalie Carlson’s “The Family Under the Bridge,” in which a homeless man in Paris, happy in his solitude, suddenly finds himself at Christmas responsible for a widow and her three children. Many people love the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” — some watch it every year at Christmas — but they may not know it was inspired by a short story, Philip Van Doren Stern’s “The Greatest Gift: A Christmas Tale,” which is still available today as a book. In fact, throw together all the Christmas stories ever written — don’t forget those accounts of the first Christmas found in the Books of Matthew and Luke — add all the holiday music and movies, including those ubiquitous Hallmark films that many of us find as comforting as a glass of milk and some chocolate chip cookies, and you’d fill up a sack that would put even Santa in the hospital with a hernia were he to try and lift it.
So, there you are. Give some books for the holidays. Read to the kids and grandkids, nephews and nieces. It’s entertaining, livens up their imaginations, and makes for stronger bonds between reader and listener.
And remember: Please buy local whenever possible. Your merchants need you, and if you consider the matter, you need your merchants.
(Jeff Minick reviews books and has written four of his own: two novels, “Amanda Bell” and “Dust On Their Wings,” and two works of nonfiction, “Learning As I Go” and “Movies Make the Man.” minick0301@gmail.com.)
Writer
Jeff Minick
The sampling was performed at various locations around the mill property and along the Pigeon River. File photo
Canton paper mill environmental report released
Outdoors
In addition to those results from groundwater tests, the report provides surface water test results taken from nine spots along the Pigeon River. In some spots, analyses noted that there were exceedances for copper, zinc and lead.
While PFAS analysis wasn’t required, Pactiv Evergreen, NCDEQ and the EPA agreed to sample a few locations that were mutually agreed upon. PFAS are chemicals found in many products consumers encounter on a daily basis. Research has shown that exposure to PFAS may lead to adverse health effects, including certain cancers. It has become known as the “forever chemical” due to the fact that it takes so long to break down. While the papermaking process at the Canton mill was not associated with PFAS chemicals, the aim of the analysis was to establish a baseline for the future.
Findings offer few surprises
BY KYLE PERROTTI
N EWS E DITOR
Almost a year after its internal publication, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has made public a report detailing the results of comprehensive ground and surface water sampling required at and around the site on which the now shutdown Pactiv Evergreen papermill sits.
In the months since the mill announced its shutdown in March 2023, there has been increased opportunity to identify potential environmental issues, and the EPA has stepped in to help address a couple of specific problems, and now the results of the comprehensive sampling provide the clearest environmental picture yet.
The 1,164-page report is dated Jan. 31, 2024, but was only made public last week when it was published online following a request for the report submitted by The Smoky Mountain News back in May. The sampling that yielded the results was performed by EnSafe, a contractor hired by Pactiv Evergreen and approved by the EPA. EnSafe also produced the report. The sampling was conducted over September and October 2023.
The results are extensive, and the broad takeaway is that, while there were certain parameters that exceeded the standard, these were expected and tied to known issues following the mill closure.
This sampling followed work conducted by Pactiv Evergreen and contractors to remedy two problems as mandated by an administrative order of consent with the EPA. The AOC
addresses the seeps of No. 6 fuel oil and black liquor impacting the Pigeon River.
The black liquor seep has been a longknown issue that was first reported to NCDEQ in in 1994. Black liquor is a byproduct from the production of paper. According to the AOC, prior to the shutdown, the mill hardwood fiberline produced up to 820 tons of paper per day, the softwood fiberline produced up to 640 tons of paper per day, which created a substantial amount of black liquor.
No. 6 fuel oil was stored onsite and used to heat boilers and kilns as part of the paper-making process and as an energy source for mill operations. The fuel oil was kept in two massive above-ground tanks and was used until the mill shut down. After the shutdown, officials were able to identify a large leak from the bottom of one tank.
In addition, over the last couple of years, Pactiv Evergreen received notices of violation for several items, including discharge toxicity and high fecal coliform concentrations. Fecal coliform is a group of bacteria that includes disease-causing species such as E.coli. However, changes in sampling requirements based on new conditions following the shutdown allowed Pactiv to avoid further violations, and the report doesn’t address those metrics.
In its introduction, the report includes a few key takeaways.
“Groundwater, seep, and surface water contaminants of potential concern have been resolved, and future monitoring (scope to be determined when applicable) can focus on the known contaminants of concern (COCs) in
groundwater and seeps; no COCs were identified in surface water and toxicity testing indicates no adverse ecological impacts to the Pigeon River,” the report reads. The report notes that historical thinking regarding COCs in groundwater has been “disproved.”
“Dioxins and furans typically related to pulp/paper mills are not a concern in site groundwater; and volatile organic compounds and semi-volatile organic compounds are not prevalent in site groundwater and only a few of each are considered COCs,” the report reads.
The report dives into specific results, beginning with pH and color tests; an elevated pH and color measurement can be indicative of the presence of black liquor in groundwater. As expected, those measurements exceeded the prescribed values at some testing sites.
“A few groundwater samples exceeded the U.S. EPA’s proposed MCLs for PFOS and PFOA including the upgradient location considered representative of background conditions,” the report reads. “PFAS detections in groundwater at the Former Canton Mill are low levels similar to results NCDEQ observed for more than half of the drinking water plant taps across North Carolina that were sampled in 2022.”
Ultimately, it was determined that where PFAS was found, its presence was likely not tied to any part of the papermaking process.
The overall conclusion of the report is that the groundwater, seep and surface water COCs have been “resolved” and that future monitoring can focus on the known COCs that were identified during the comprehensive sampling. Because the groundwater beneath the site is not used for potable water and no private potable wells are located within a half-mile of the site, There is no immediate action required.
“Surface water data and toxicity testing demonstrate that the black liquor seeps have not degraded the Pigeon River water quality,
In addition, the report contains information on the presence of several metals that are indicative of black liquor. Some also come from other papermaking processes, and the report claims that some are likely representative of “natural aquifer.” Metals including higher-than-normal amounts detected include chromium, cobalt, arsenic and lead. This mirrors what had been reported prior to the comprehensive sampling.
Also as expected, testing detected the presence of anions — chlorides and sulfates — that had been reported in prior tests and are known to occur in black liquor.
Quality Standards,” the report reads.
“Results presented… show some PFAS detections in groundwater and surface water. There are no U.S. EPA or NCDEQ regulatory criteria or requirements for PFAS assessment or remediation at this time,” the report later notes.
Following the internal release of the report almost a year ago, work was scheduled to continue on the action items required by the AOC, especially those to address the black liquor seep; however, it isn’t known at this time how those efforts have progressed.
Winners announced in George Masa Youth Conservation Photography Prize
The George Masa Foundation proudly announces the winners of the inaugural George Masa Youth Conservation Photography Prize, a competition designed to empower young photographers to celebrate and advocate for conservation.
The contest received an inspiring response, with 763 submissions from 266 students across 26 states, showcasing an incredible diversity of perspectives and talent. Each participant’s work demonstrated a shared passion for protecting the natural world, creating a powerful collective message about the importance of conservation.
The winners’ outstanding work will receive cash prizes and be featured prominently on the George Masa Foundation’s website and social media platforms. Their photographs will also be included in upcoming exhibitions and publications that celebrate youth contributions to conservation.
The winning photos are now available for viewing on the George Masa Foundation’s website at georgemasafoundation.org/contest-winners.
We’re kicking off the holidays by trimming the tree on Friday, celebrating Appalachia on Saturday, serving cider on “Cyber” Monday, and connecting kids with books on Giving Tuesday
Tsali Ultra to host NC USATF Championships
The Tsali Ultra Trail Race, in its 15th year of operation, will host the NC USATF 50Kilometer Trail Championships on Jan. 18, 2025, in Almond.
The event will feature a total of three races — an 8-kilometer, 30-kilometer and the premiere Tsali Ultra 50-Kilometer Race — all held entirely on National Forest Trails.
The NC USATF 50-Kilometer Open and Masters Championships have total prize purse of nearly $2,000. The top three finishers in the Open Men, Open Women, Masters Men and Masters Women divisions will receive champi-
onship medals and prize money in the amount of $200, $150 and $100 for first through third places. The Masters divisions will be age graded in order to foster a fair and even playing field. Championship prize funds are made possible through a grant from NC USATF. Anyone regardless of residency or USATF membership status is eligible to participate and compete for awards in all three races. However, only USATF members who are residents of North Carolina are eligible for NC USATF 50 km Trail Championship status and NC USATF awards. It is the goal of USATF to increase both individual and club membership in the organization. For USATF membership information please visit usatf.org/membership.
for all walks of
from families to golf groups to ladies who lunch. We pride ourselves on using fresh ingredients from our gardens and supporting local farmers. The details are priority.
George Masa strikes a pose wih three of his cameras. George Masa photo
Get your Together for the Holidays!
We will take care of all of your packaging and shipping needs.
Cataloochee ski area opens for the season
Following a cold snap and a couple of inches of fresh snow, the Cataloochee Ski Area in Haywood County opened up for its 64th season on Nov. 23.
“We are pleased to share that our snowmaking team has pulled off another amazing,
“We encourage anyone planning to visit this weekend to pre-purchase online at cataloochee.com in advance,” the post noted. “All products including slope passes, rentals, and lessons will be available two weeks out, and up to two weeks in advance from this point forward.”
For tickets, click on cataloochee.com.
Master Gardeners host wreath-making workshop
The North Carolina State Extension Master Gardeners are hosting a wreath-making workshop Dec. 7. The extension will provide a selection of fresh greenery, natural embellishments and knowledgeable volunteers to show people the ropes. Sessions are from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1-3:30 p.m. at N.C. Cooperative Extension, Haywood County Center, located at 589 Raccoon Road. Cost is $40 for one 16inch wreath, including all materials with a bow.
To reserve a spot, register online and prepay at go.ncsu.edu/haywoodgardeningclasses or in person at the Haywood County Center by Wednesday, Nov. 27. Anyone with any questions can call the Haywood County Center at 828.456.3575.
Proceeds from the Wreath Making Workshop fund Extension-sponsored horticultural projects in Haywood County, including elementary school gardens; community gardens; demonstration gardens; educational workshops; Extension Master Gardener programs; and more. The workshop will be held Dec. 7. Donated photo
The drought has spread in Easter North Carolina while the whole state remains at least abnormally dry. ncdrought.org photo
Drought creeps into WNC
The North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council has classified parts of Western North Carolina as being in a moderate drought.
Following Hurricane Helene, most parts of the state have seen little precipitation. The entire region is now classified as abnormally dry with parts of Cherokee, Graham, Clay and Macon counties now in a moderate drought.
Cataloochee Ski Area. File photo
Three-year restoration of Ramsey Cascades Trail completed
In collaboration with Friends of the Smokies, the National Park Service (NPS) has a completed a three-year restoration of the Ramsey Cascades Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located in the Greenbrier area, this popular trail ascends through beautiful hardwood forests to the 105-foot Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the park. The trail is now open seven days a week following an extensive reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Improvements to the Ramsey Cascades Trail include:
• Two new footlog bridges.
• New decking and handrails on a 20-foot hiker bridge.
Permit-free firewood
• 151 trail drains.
• More than 600 new steps for hiker safety and erosion control.
• Regrading of 2.5 miles of trail surface for improved safety and better trail drainage.
collection begins on reopened areas of the Pisgah National Forest
The U.S. Forest Service invites the public to gather firewood for personal use without a permit on reopened sections of the Pisgah National Forest from now until December 2025. Several thousands of acres of the Pisgah National Forest were damaged during Tropic Storm Helene, leaving a significant amount of woody debris and downed trees in the aftermath and creating higher-than-usual level of fuel for wildfires. The public can help mitigate this risk by collecting downed wood to warm their homes during the winter.
Firewood can be gathered from along all open roads within a predetermined free-use area on any reopened portion of the Pisgah National Forest. Large portions of the Pisgah remain closed because of impacts from the storm, including the entire Appalachian Ranger Districts and portions of the Grandfather Ranger District.Please contact the local ranger district for more information on where firewood can be gathered. The Pisgah
Nominations open for Governor’s Conservation Achievement
Awards
North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF) announced that nominations are now open for the 60th Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards. This prestigious event, set to take place on May 3, 2025, honors the outstanding individuals, organizations and agencies whose work is making a lasting impact on the conservation of North Carolina’s wildlife and natural resources.
Each year, NCWF brings together a diverse group of conservation leaders — including wildlife biologists, enforcement officers, educators, foresters, business owners, legislators and many others — all united in their commitment to preserving North Carolina’s environment. This year’s milestone event will celebrate the exceptional contributions of those who have gone above and beyond to protect wildlife and promote sustainable conservation practices across the state. The nomination period is now open and runs
through Jan. 31.NCWF invites the public to submit nominations for conservation leaders who have demonstrated exceptional service in a variety of categories, including:
• Conservationist of the Year
• Wildlife Conservationist of the Year
• Sportsman or Sportswoman of the Year
• Land Conservationist of the Year
• Water Conservationist of the Year
• Forest Conservationist of the Year
• Conservation Organization of the Year
• Legislator of the Year
• Business Conservationist of the Year
• Natural Resources Agency or Scientist of the Year
• Wildlife Volunteer of the Year
• Public Lands Conservationist of the Year
• NCWF Chapter of the Year
• Affiliate of the Year
• Environmental Educator of the Year
• Young Conservationist of the Year
These awards provide a unique opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups whose efforts are critical to advancing conservation and environmental education throughout the state.
To nominate an outstanding conservation leader or organization, visit ncwf.org/governorsconservation-achievement-awards/nominations.
• Removal of tripping hazards, including roots and rocks.
• Pruning of overgrown vegetation in the trail corridor to improve the hiking experience and allow the trail to better dry.
Through this rehabilitation, the NPS restored Ramsey Cascades with the original trail design in mind and in a way that blends in with the natural landscape. Trail crew members used natural materials and hand tools and transported most tools and equipment by hand or pack mule. A helicopter delivered several loads to five drop sites that the mule team could not access. The trail crew used 1,200 black locust logs and 760,000 pounds of rock crush for fill for this rehabilitation.
The restoration of Ramsey Cascades Trail was completed with significant support from the Friends of the Smokies Trails Forever Endowment. This endowment funds permanent, highly skilled trail crew members to rehabilitate some of the park’s most iconic trails. To date, the Friends have contributed nearly $4 million through the program, resulting in the full rehabilitation of Abrams Falls, Trillium Gap, Rainbow Falls, Alum Cave, Chimney Tops and Forney Ridge trails.
Ranger District (Transylvania, Buncombe and Haywood counties) can be reached at 828.877.3265. The Grandfather Ranger District (McDowell, Burke, Caldwell, Avery and Watauga counties) can be reached at 828.652.2144. Appalachian Ranger District (Haywood, Madison, Buncombe, Yancey, Mitchell and Avery counties) is still closed to the public.
Anyone wishing to gather firewood on the Pisgah are required to follow these rules:
• Do not attempted to gather firewood from closed portions of the National Forest.
• All motorized vehicles must stay on cleared roadways.
• Do not block traffic.Leave no trace—take all trash, litter and wood scraps with you.
• No on-site warming fires.
• No digging or picking of any plants is allowed.
• No collecting in an active logging area.
• Firewood collected is for personal use only and may not be sold or exchanged. Permits are still required to collect firewood on the Nantahala National Forests and can be obtained at the forest’s three local district ranger offices.
Josh Shapiro, Trails Forever supervisor, cuts the ribbon for Ramsey Cascades Trail. NPS photo
Market PLACE WNC
MarketPlace information:
The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 copies across 500 locations in Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties, including the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. Visit www.wncmarketplace.com to place your ad!
Rates:
• $15 — Classified ads that are 25 words, 25¢ per word after.
• Free — Lost or found pet ads.
• $6 — Residential yard sale ads.*
• $1 — Yard Sale Rain Insurance
Yard sale rained out? Call us by 10a.m. Monday for your ad to run again FREE
• $375 — Statewide classifieds run in 170 participating newspapers with 1.1+ million circulation. (Limit 25 words or less)
• Boost Online — Have your ad featured at top of category online $4
• Boost in Print
• Add Photo $6
• Bold ad $2
• Yellow, Green, Pink or Blue Highlight $4
• Border $4
Note: Highlighted ads automatically generate a border so if you’re placing an ad online and select a highlight color, the “add border” feature will not be available on the screen.
Note: Yard sale ads require an address. This location will be displayed on a map on www.wncmarketplace.com
GSMR is seeking bids for upcoming FRRCSI grant projects. Materials to be delivered February 29, 2025. Bridge Timbers. 108 total of varying sizes. Interested parties should contact kimalbritton@gsmr.com for a details list of quantities and sizes. Accepting bids for CopperNap and Croesote Treatment timbers. Vendors capable of producing both types of treatment are encouraged to bid both. Timber shall be Dense 31 SYP. Evaluation Criteria: Partial bids for materials are accepted and may be awarded. This is a formal sealed bidding process. Bids must comply with domestic steel and Beuy Aerica
participation is highly encouraged. Projects will be awarded at GSMR’s sole discretion to the supplier of suppliers whose proposal offers the best value. GSMR reserves the right to reject any and all bids. Your proposal is due no later than 2PM deadline on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Formal Public Bid Opening Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024. All proposals must be submitted to the following: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Attention: Kim Albritton. 225 Everett Street Bryson City NC 28713. Bids submitted by email will not be accepted. Kim Albritton, Vice President & General Manager kimalbritton@
gsmr.com
828-488-7008 desk
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Case No.24e001361-490
J.K. Coward, Jr, having -
istrator of the Estate of Marilyn Anita Gold of Jackson County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Feb 20 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
Administrator
705 W Main Street Sylva, NC 28779
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Case No.24E001665-430
utor of the Estate of Joy W. Hargette County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Feb 27 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Feb 27 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
Administrator 241 Daffodil Lane Canton, NC 28716
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Case No.24E001631-430
for the Estate of Freddy Ralph Hall County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Feb 13 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
Fiduciary
158 Substation Rd. Canton, NC 28716
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Case No.24E001358-490
Gerald L. Paine, having of Vivian Annette Paine
North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Feb 20 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.
Ancillary Executor
Esq. 721 N Main Street Waynesville, NC 28786
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