50 minute read
Free speech trumps party politics any day
To the Editor:
Here I am, a constitutional conservative who for 40-plus years has voted, held office, and worked as a Republican volunteer, sitting at my computer feeling thrilled to death over the Republican red wave that wasn’t.
Now, I am being subjected to cable news talking heads and political internet entities arguing about who was at fault. And of course, it was all President Trump’s fault, the only Republican constantly crisscrossing the country holding rallies for our candidates.
Just another wonderful opportunity to denigrate the former President and hopefully force him out of running for President in 2024. The most productive President, who actually delivered on his promises to the people and actually did make America great again. Unheard of in modern politics.
No folks, it was the Republican leadership in Congress who failed to make the red wave a reality.
Rep. Kevin McCarty, minority leader of the House, who publicly announced he would not hold impeachment trials on any Democrats who had brought so much destruction and harm to our country and citizens. Acts that were literally treasonous, but hey let bygones be bygones and do the Republican thing and not hold Democrats accountable as usual. That went well in winning seats.
Sen. Mitch McConnell, minority leader of the Senate, who took millions of dollars in campaign funding away from Trump endorsed candidates with great potential to win against their opponents. That money was taken away and redirected to support left-leaning Republicans who would show allegiance to him, Republican candidates who openly announced intentions to vote with Democrats. That went well in winning the Senate back.
These are the two individuals primarily responsible for a failed red wave.
But hey, I too bear a big share of the blame for writing an article which was published in the Mountaineer on Oct. 22, 2022, just days before early voting began. The article was critical of these so-called leaders who cared more about their pride, positions of power, and elite status in Washington, D.C., than about winning. My article was written factually, pointing out Republican leadership’s consistent failure to lead on behalf of the people.
This article earned me the wrath of my Haywood County Republican Party Chair, and according to this chair, numerous other unnamed individuals. This wrath preceded my resignation as a county precinct chair. I resigned not because of the severe chastising — I’m not that thin skinned, having swam with the sharks, as the saying goes, throughout my career.
I resigned because this Republican chair of the party sworn to protect the Constitutional rights of every American had the audacity to advise me that as a precinct chair, I had no right to write such an article critical of the Republican Party leadership just prior to the elections.
I have re-read the First Amendment to the Constitution and nowhere in that amendment does it state that an individual forfeits their right to free speech because of political position or any special political event. I will always choose my First Amendment rights over any political position.
Now that the elections are over, I’m hearing from numerous Republican Haywood County party members that the red wave which actually did happen in Haywood County was the result of all the hard work our chair put in on behalf of our candidates. Folks, neither our chair nor our county party had the manpower or will to make any real impact. Rather, the candidates won their elections through their own efforts and with the support of Joe Biden. Aside from a few meet-and-greet sessions and one phone call campaign, we did nothing more.
We did not go out with candidates and actively help, we did not have multiple phone call campaigns, nor did we go to any local groups and speak on behalf of our candidates. We did well this cycle because of Joe Biden and his policies and nothing more. Our ineffectiveness in being a driving force in helping our candidates win in 2024 will remain a problem without profound reform and change in leadership.
We are a currently a county party of approximately 25-30 active volunteers, a number that should be three times as large. We are currently a county party with no diversity program to draw in minorities or young adults; we are a currently a county party with no outreach programs to draw in new volunteers; we are currently a county party with no documented mission plan; we are currently a county party with no real partnerships with our elected Republican officials or with outside conservative group within our county; nor are there any teams or committees in place to lead our county party forward.
Because I write articles addressing this party’s critical shortcomings, I am accused of personal attacks on our chair as a person. I am not attacking the chair as a person; I am bringing to light the failures of our chair to lead our county party in a manner that makes us a viable component of the Republican Party.
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(From left) Balsam Range is guitarist Caleb Smith, mandolinist Darren Nicholson, banjoist Marc Pruett, fiddler Buddy Melton and bassist Tim Surrett.
(David Simchock photo)
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Balsam Range celebrates 15 years, looks ahead
BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
In a year that’ll surely end on a bittersweet note, beloved Haywood County bluegrass sensation Balsam Range is not only celebrating 15 years together, the band is also saying goodbye to one of its founding members, mandolinist Darren Nicholson.
“[The timing] feels just right for me,” Nicholson said. “I did [over] 250 performances last year on my own, and almost 40 with Balsam Range. It’s very simple — it’s just gotten hard to do it all.”
Although the departure from his longtime group is amicable, Nicholson noted that his health, physically and mentally, was the main reason as to deciding to pursue a solo career with his popular country/bluegrass act, The Darren Nicholson Band, and put his entire focus on one artistic entity instead of two.
“I’m in a place in my life where health is a priority, and juggling careers is quite stressful from a scheduling standpoint,” Nicholson said. “Health is physical, mental, and spiritual, so this is about serenity for me, [with] my physical health probably the best it’s ever been in my life [right now].”
Thus, Nicholson’s final bow as a member of Balsam Range will come during the ensemble’s annual “Art of Music” festival, taking place Dec. 2-3 in the Stuart Auditorium at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center. The weekend long musical gathering will also officially mark the 15-year milestone for the quintet.
“Looking back over the [15-year] journey, I’m still amazed at all we’ve accomplished, as so many incredible memories,” said lead singer/fiddler Buddy Melton. “After all the planning, strategizing, long hours, countless miles, and family sacrifices, does it seem worth the effort? The answer is yes — it doesn’t take much reflection to feel proud of our journey.”
Coming together as an impromptu jam session in the kitchen of Nicholson’s Canton home in 2007, Balsam Range was initially meant to be a casual musical project for all involved, each having been professional touring musicians for many years prior. But, the vibe felt so right and seamless, the group started booking gigs around the region, the project soon taking on a life of its own.
“The early days were full of excitement, hope, long hours, and much effort — setting out-of-reach goals, building teams and strategies to achieve them,” Melton reminisced. “We are told our whole lives to follow our dreams, [and] dreams only die if we start looking at all the difficulties it takes to achieve them — focusing on the dream, those difficulties are merely steps that help us climb to the top.”
And since its inception, Balsam Range has become one of the most decorated and awardwinning acts in the wide world of bluegrass music. The band has taken home the following International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) honors: “Entertainer of the Year” (2014, 2018), “Album of the Year” (2013, 2017), “Song of the Year” (2011, 2015) and “Vocal Group of the Year” (2014, 2015), with Melton named “Male Vocalist of the Year” (2014, 2018) and Tim Surrett “Bass Player of the Year” (2018).
“It’s most meaningful to me to remember how the band has been able to help certain families,” said banjoist Marc Pruett. “[Whether it was] a child with cancer [or] a family whose home burned, and the fragile and old we helped feed through our efforts with Meals On Wheels, and the Backpack Program — for me, those are my accolades.”
So, even after spending most of their lives immersed in the ancient legend and lore of the “high, lonesome sound,” just what is it about bluegrass music that still tugs at the heart of the members of Balsam Range all these years later?
“It’s organic. It’s the hills crying out. It’s love, heartache, hope, and inspiration. It’s the music of experiences and real life,” Nicholson said. “This music is deep in my soul. It’s been there since I was a small child in rural Western North Carolina with all my family and their pals playing music in our living room.”
“I remember how wonderful it made me feel when I first heard Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys, then Bill Monroe, then the Stanley Brothers,” Pruett added. “Earl’s banjo playing went straight to my 10-year-old heart, and each time I get to step onstage with my banjo, I try to play with a feeling that will make others get that same spine-tingle that I got then. There is perfection in the music ‘of the old guys’ that still moves me — I still study it, and I still learn.”
Want to go?
The annual Balsam Range “Art of Music” festival will take place Dec. 2-3 in the Stuart Auditorium at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center.
Alongside two performances by Balsam Range, other stage acts will include Sierra Hull & Justin Moses, Travelin’ McCourys, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, Atlanta Pops Orchestra Ensemble, Shannon Wright & Adam Wright, and The Studio Dream Team Band.
For more information and to purchase tickets, click on balsamrangeartofmusicfestival.com.
(Garret K. Woodward photos)
arts & entertainment
Brotherhood and backwoods tradition
A retrospective on Balsam Range
f BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Writers ’ Note: Since I started in the position of arts and entertainment editor at The Smoky Mountain News in 2012, I’ve been able to dive deep into the legend and lore of bluegrass sensation Balsam Range. Not only has the group become musical heroes in their own right, they remain a pillar of the genuine compassion and inclusive nature at the heart of folks here in Haywood County and greater Western North Carolina. Below are excerpts from numerous cover stories and articles over the last decade. Congratulations on 15 years, my friends.
AUGUST 2012
release party attracted around 250 patrons. The concert was a celebration of not only a new record, but also a homecoming and “thank you” to all in Haywood County — all of those who are a part of “Balsam Nation” — on their continued support of a band that is realizing more and more each day that the sky’s the limit with its potential.
“I grew up in the mountains and music was part of our heritage. My dad played and about everybody in my family played. We’d play every evening, especially on Friday nights when other musicians would come by and sit on the porch,” said mandolinist Darren Nicholson. “As long as people have been living here, music has been here. Music and dance is a big part of mountain culture. It’s just a way of life. Sitting down with your family after dinner and playing. It’s been like that around here for hundreds of years.”
Entering their fifth year together, the group came to fruition in a roundabout way of old friends and new, sitting down and pickin’ for the sake of pickin’.
“Originally, we just got together to jam. A couple of the guys had put out solo records and some of us played on those records,” said bassist/dobroist Tim Surrett. “We had so much fun and ended up picking together. By the second time or so we picked, we got asked to play a show and then we just had to look for a name.”
The quintet features Nicholson, Surrett, guitarist Caleb Smith, fiddler Buddy Melton, and banjoist Marc Pruett. From winning a Grammy Award (Pruett) to being inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame (Surrett), PowerGrass Music Awards “Male Vocalist of the Year” (Smith) to performing at the Grand Ole Opry (Nicholson) or playing alongside the legendary Doc Watson (Melton), they’re an array of talent and acclaim deeply rooted in Western North Carolina.
“We all grew up around here. There’s something magical about [bluegrass] that grabbed me,” Melton said. “It’s hard to describe until you’ve experienced it. We meet new fans all the time that have just discovered this music and it hits them in the heart.”
Wandering backstage before the show, a cacophony of strings drift through the hallways. Each member finds their own corner where they tune-up, take a moment to collect their thoughts and catch their breath in the minutes leading up to the performance.
“I think the reality of bluegrass is that it’s real. There are songs about racehorses, rivers, mountains, murder, baptisms, etc., and all of that still resonates today,” Smith said. “When we look for stuff, we look for things that aren’t written for bluegrass. As a whole, bluegrass is a feel type of music. It’s believable. It’s always fun to bring new music to people and step out with brand new things to offer.”
Stepping up to the microphone, Surrett saluted the crowd amid raucous cheers and applause. Outside, the tall steam stacks of the paper mill signal that there’s a lot more work left to do and tomorrow is new a day.
“We grew up here and we played ball here,” he said. “We live here and we think it smells just fine here.”
— Buddy Melton
JUNE 2014
Pulling into the parking lot of a Tractor Supply Company in Clyde, fiddler Buddy Melton pops the tailgate of his truck down and takes a seat. An engineer for the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources Public Water Supply Section (the department covers 19 counties), Melton just finished another full day of work.
He sits on the tailgate and takes a break for a moment. Soon, he’ll get ready to travel to Highlands for a Balsam Range show that evening — show two of five that weekend.
“It’s exciting. It’s hard to believe looking back at where we started and to see it materialize in the way it has,” he said. “‘Papertown’ was a benchmark as to where we’re at. We’re really proud of this new album and what the future holds.”
The de facto leader of Balsam Range, Melton started playing fiddle in college. He performed with bluegrass/gospel group Jubal Foster, an act that had some success, but not enough in the tank to keep it going. Melton also performed with bluegrass legends David Holt and Doc Watson before he found himself jamming in Nicholson’s kitchen. With the rapid success of Balsam Range, Melton can only pinch himself to see if it’s real.
“I remember going to the IBMA awards prior to playing music and just as a fan, and watching folks I admire up onstage winning awards,” he said. “You never dream you’d be up there one day going through the same process.”
But, the awards and accolades received by Balsam Range almost never happened, with the band at the mercy of the heavens when Melton was severely injured in a farming acci-
— Buddy Melton
RETROSPECTIVE, CONTINUED FROM 25 dent in early 2012. Owner of a 300-acre farm in Crabtree, Melton was kicked in the face while loading cattle. He suffered brain trauma, with surgeons wondering if he’d survive, let alone be the same again after recovery.
“The accident changed me drastically. I went through life without any major glitches, never been in a hospital. You think you’re somewhat invincible, you see people suffer and you feel for them, but when you personally go through something like that it’s a reality check,” he said. “You realize life is precious, life is short, and you need to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.”
Though Melton admits there are certain oddities that remain from his accident, for the most part he’s made a positive recovery. He was able to take the stage to perform at the album release for “Papertown” only a handful of months after he was one foot in the grave.
“You’ve just got to put it all behind you, take what you have and move forward,” he said. “The accident definitely changed my outlook on life and Balsam Range. It doesn’t take long to realize this is a special thing the five of us have — I’m grateful for it all.”
Each time Balsam Range hits the stage Melton is humbled by the supportive and encouraging audiences. He’s also thankful for the mere fact that he knows exactly what the other four members will give — passion, professionalism and a piece of mind that their band is a fruitful endeavor.
“We are five guys with similar needs and wants, similar families and goals. We have talent and are focused. We communicate openly and honestly, with each trying to keep it successful, with each able to put on different hats at different times,” he said. “We will play the Grand Ole Opry on a Saturday night, then get up for work on Monday morning. You have to switch those hats, be focused and know you have a limited time to get it all done and do you get it done? We do.”
OCTOBER 2014
Caleb Smith had no idea.
“I didn’t hear them announce it,” he marveled. “I was backstage talking to Del McCoury about a guitar and he says to me, ‘Son, I think they just called your name.’”
“They” as in the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA), and what was called turned out to be Balsam Range winning Entertainer of the Year at the annual award show Oct. 2 in Raleigh. For Smith, the guitarist in the Haywood County group, taking home the biggest honor in the bluegrass industry was both shocking and very humbling.
“I just couldn’t believe it,” he said at the band’s celebratory after-party. “It’s humbling to even be nominated for this award by your peers and your heroes, and to win it and take it home, well, it was a milestone moment we’ll never forget — we hit the top of the mountain.”
The final honor of the evening, Balsam Range took the grand stage at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium to accept the award. It was the band’s third win in an evening that also garnered them “Vocal Group of the Year” and “Male Vocalist of the Year,” which was bestowed upon Melton.
“My mind was just racing. There were a lot of nominees in that category who were people that are the reason I got into singing in the first place,” Melton said. “To be included with that caliber of performers is amazing, and to win it just put it over the top.”
Since their inception in 2007, Balsam Range has rapidly risen into the stratosphere of 21st century bluegrass. Amid their numerous number-one singles, accolades and Grand Ole Opry appearances, they also won the 2011 IBMA “Song of the Year” award for “Trains I Missed.”
And on the heels of winning “Album of the Year” in 2013 for “Papertown,” the quintet released the follow-up “Five” in June. The new record and its singles have spent most of this past summer burning up the bluegrass charts.
“Music is a very powerful thing, it speaks to people, it’s the universal language, and there’s a responsibility with that when you get to the level we’re at,” Melton said. “People connect to your music and they tell you their life story, and it brings awareness to what we’re doing. We’re impacting people’s lives and they’re impacting ours — that’s a pretty special thing.”
Before the final award for “Entertainer of the Year” was presented, Balsam Range took the stage to play their hit song “Moon Over Memphis.” The melody took the roof off the building, as the audience roared in applause following its completion.
The band had yet to return to their front row seats when it was announced they had won “Entertainer of the Year.” The auditorium shook with cheers and a standing ovation when they emerged from backstage to receive their trophy. The group waved to the crowd, only to look down with smiles from ear-to-ear at their ecstatic wives clapping from the front row.
It was a moment they’d never forget, a moment of pride that will go down as one of the finest in the long and storied musical history of Western North Carolina.
“I haven’t felt this proud since Pisgah High School won the state football championship in 1976,” Surrett chuckled. “We’ve not done anything differently since we started playing together. We just keep doing what we’re doing, and it just seems to get out there to more people — we keep pushing forward.”
BY GARRET K. WOODWARD
Lace up the running shoes, head out the door and get after it
As of yesterday, Monday, Nov. 28, I’ve run 2,525 days in a row. I hadn’t checked in on “the streak” in a while, but was curious at where it stood after coming across a 2021 article for Outside magazine, titled “The Minds and Habits of Master Streakers.”
And here I sit in the newsroom at The Smoky Mountain News. It’s almost noon on Tuesday. We’re currently putting out this week’s newspaper that you’re currently holding or reading online. The USA/Iran World Cup game is in a couple hours, and I’m trying to figure out when I’ll squeeze in a three-mile jog (day 2,526 in-a-row) around downtown Waynesville before I sneak into The Scotsman for a cold beer and large TV showcasing the match (with sound on, which is ideal).
The Outside piece conjured a collage of memories, moments and miles traversed within my mind. Since Dec. 31, 2015, I’ve run at least one mile a day, with, I’d say, an average of around three miles during each excursion. When Dec. 31 appears on the calendar next month, it’ll be exactly seven years since I began this whirlwind odyssey of running, weather conditions, geographical locations, and emotional states of being — all with a healthy dose of pure stubbornness and dogged persistence.
Now, for some background, I’ve been an avid runner since I was 12 years old (37 now). Starting in seventh grade, I ran competitively, racking up blue ribbons and school records all through middle and high school. I kept competing way into college, running D-1 track and cross-country at Quinnipiac University. But, most importantly, many of my lifelong friends were met through these athletic channels.
So, for over a quarter-century, I’ve laced up my running shoes, headed out the front door, and gotten after it, whatever that “is” being a sense of self, a mindset and physical state of being only felt in the midst of a jog to somewhere, anywhere, or nowhere in particular. Running is the one common thread throughout my life that’s remained as vital as ever, this tether reaching the deepest depths of my heart and soul — the ebb and flow of the universe can be felt and witnessed on one simple jog, try it sometime.
Even before I started running, the idea and act of it has always been in my life. A die-hard, perhaps hardheaded runner, my father, Frank, has finished 85 marathons and thousands of road races over the decades, going all the way back to his years as a track and cross-country athlete in 1950s Upstate New York.
Heck, Frank has run the Boston Marathon 14 times, his best finish being 02:48:15 in 1979. His first Boston trek was 1978, the last in 1999. Once-in-a-while, he’ll saddle up at the start line of the local Turkey Trot or some random race while on vacation in Maine. At age 80, my father still gets up almost every day and goes for a run around the backwoods of the North Country.
In essence, my running streak happened by chance, rather than purposely pushing it as far as I could. I mean, nobody sets out to
run every day for seven years, let alone for 19,546 days (53.51 years), which is the current active record held by Jon Sutherland, 72, of Utah, who, oddly enough, is also a writer/journalist, one who specialized in rock music. How ‘bout them apples, eh?
Thus, on Dec. 31, 2015, I found myself at my old college buddy’s apartment in Brooklyn, New York. New Year’s Eve and I decided to go for a six-mile run around the hustle-and-bustle borough, ultimately trotting across the Brooklyn Bridge and taking the subway back to Greenpoint.
Before that day, I was running every other day. But, while in Greenpoint, I found that I couldn’t really cross-train, so I just ran every day I was visiting New York City. After a week, I was on the phone with Frank and mentioned how I had run every day for a week. “Ah, that’s nothing, I ran every day for a year. Try and top that,” he muttered in a tone only a father could to his son.
From there, I challenged the old man. Aiming for one year of running every day, I kept at it. Spring, summer, fall, winter. No matter the weather, no matter the circumstance or wherever I may find myself. Who cares if I’m a little late to something? I was out running. I’ll get there when I can. Who cares if it’s below zero and snowing outside? Add on another layer and put on thicker gloves. Who cares if it’s 11:30 p.m.? I got to get the run in to keep “the streak” alive.
At this stage in the game of life, running, for me is a form of meditation, the one part of my day where I’m completely disconnected from technology and interaction, where it’s only me, the sounds of my breathing and footsteps, and the observation of the sounds and sights swirling around one’s current position in that moment of Zen in motion — pure ecstasy with each step forward.
Reflecting back on the last 2,525 days, I can say wholeheartedly that the biggest takeaway are those moments of solitude, where I found myself in these happenstance junctures of my life, in search of a quick place to run while traveling to or from an assignment, while on vacation, or merely driving across America. Find a route on the AllTrails app and pull over before the sun goes down.
I think of that run across the Brooklyn Bridge, and the one across the Golden Gate. I think of that recent snowstorm in the Adirondacks, running in silence along the Bloomingdale Bog Trail, thick snowflakes cascading from above. I think of those runs in Canada, Mexico, the humidity of Florida, dry air of Montana, rainstorms of Virginia, and the sweet ocean scent of Texas, too.
And I think of that happenstance rendezvous with Wilson Lake in rural central Kansas, a bleeding sunset and warm breeze rolling across the Great Plains, a joyous smile rolling across my face as I gazed westward while in motion, smack dab in the middle of America, with nowhere to be and running in my own time — that void of nothing and everything that makes every single mile worthwhile.
Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all.
A running route in South Carolina.
(Garret K. Woodward photo)
1Beloved Appalachian storyteller Gary Carden will be telling tall tales from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, in the Meeting Room at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.
2“One Christmas Night in Memphis” will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.
3The final “Art After Dark” of the year will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, in downtown Waynesville.
4A special holiday performance by the Glory String Players will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.
5Children’s author Emily B. Martin will read from her new book, “A Field Guide to Mermaids,” at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, in the Community Room at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.
Good Eats • Craft Cocktails Beer • Top Spirits • Wine
EVENTS
Friday November 25th
Live Music w/Bridget Gossett & Tyler Kirkpatrick 9-11:30 p.m. - Americana - Folk - Blues Thursday December 1st
Live Music w/ Borderline Band 8-10 p.m. - Traditional Country - Americana Friday December 2nd
Adamas Ent. presents Jingle Jam Pre-Party Tricia Ann Band 9 p.m. - 12 a.m. - High Energy Rock Thursday December 8th
Live Music w/ Rene Russel 8-10:30 p.m. - Americana -Rock-World Music Friday December 9th
Live Music with The Jacktown Ramblers Trio 8-11 p.m. - Bluegrass Celtic Sundays
W/The Carter Giegerich Trio - 2-5 p.m. Incredible Celtic Folk - Every Sunday Relaxation Along With Your Guinness!
It was another banner year for Western North Carolina bluegrass acts at the International Bluegrass Music Association awards in Raleigh last Thursday evening.
Despite torrential downpours, and the possible threat of Hurricane Joaquin making landfall, the annual industry showcase once again brought together musicians, promoters and bluegrass fans alike for a week of memorable moments, onstage and off.
As the reigning “Entertainer of the Year,” Balsam Range watched The Earls of Leicester pick up the honor this year, but the quintet defended their title of “Vocal Group of the Year” and once again brought home “Song of the Year” for “Moon Over Memphis.” The band also was decorated by Gov. Pat McCrory with “The Order of the Long Leaf Pine,” the highest civilian honor in the state for a proven record of service in North Carolina.
Alongside his awards with Balsam Range, bassist Tim Surrett also won “Bass Player of the Year” and was selected to be the incoming chairman of the IBMA Board of Directors — as much an honor as a responsibility to not only preserve bluegrass music, but also perpetuate it into the next generation of picker and listeners.
“To be recognized by the bluegrass world is one thing, but to be recognized for the charity work we do, it’s just really nice. It means a lot. We give back to the community because we’re part of it. It’s for people we know, people we care about,” Surrett said about the “Order of the Long Leaf Pine.” “I don’t know how someone could say no to someone right in the eye when asked to help out with a charity event. Charity begins at home. We’ve got plenty to take care of in Haywood County and Western North Carolina.” (Editor ’ s note: Balsam Range recently raised $10,000 at a benefit for a family who lost their home in a fire.)
Balsam Range guitarist Caleb Smith. Jeffrey Delannoy photo
“Entertainer of the Year,” “Vocal Group of the Year,” “Male Vocalist of the Year” and “Bass Player of the Year.” And for the last three years, the Jerry Douglas-led act The Earls of Leicester had taken home “Entertainer of the Year” (2015-2017).
“It’s just wonderful to still be able to work, to still be in the ring,” Pruett modestly said. “But, the biggest award for me, is to get back out there on the stage with my buddies, pick some tunes again, and leave folks with a warm smile and some good music — that’s the only award I need.”
Right out of the gate of the nationally broadcasted show, Surrett won the first award of the evening, “Bass Player of the Year,” his second time receiving the honor. Not to be outdone, Melton then won “Male Vocalist of the Year,” also his second.
And as the tension in the room wore on leading up the announcement of “Entertainer of the Year,” the final award of the evening, Balsam Range took the stage and performed its latest single, “The Girl Who Invented the Wheel.” Just as the band got offstage, the envelope was ripped open, a raucous audience roaring in cheers and shouts when the new “Entertainer of the Year” was crowned — “And the winner is…Balsam Range.”
“Eleven years we’ve been together, and we are like family. This is the best group of guys, I love playing music with them,” Nicholson said. “This has been an incredible ride, but they’re better people. They’ve been there when it hasn’t been great and they’ve been there when it has been great — and that’s what family does.”
arts & entertainment
Bryson City holiday concert
A special holiday performance by the Glory String Players will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.
The Glory String Players is a small Appalachian string ensemble that loves giving back to their community. And during the holidays, it seems like the perfect time to give back.
The group consists of multiple harmonies with instruments, including the dulcimer, guitar, classical violin, band jammer, mandolin, ocarina, glockenspiel, autoharp, djembe drum, and a merlin fourstring guitar.
The event is free and open to the public. The Marianna Black Library, a member of the Fontana Regional Library, is located in downtown Bryson City at the corner of Academy and Rector.
For more information, please call the library at 828.488.3030.
(From left) Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. (File photo)
One of rock-n-roll’s legendary events is being recreated as a musical with “One Christmas Night in Memphis” hitting the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.
On Dec. 4, 1956 at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, four of the century’s immortals — Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis — engaged in an impromptu jam session. Record producer Sam Phillips recorded the event, which was never to be repeated.
This tribute to that memorable night in Memphis features nationally acclaimed cast members who have an uncanny sound, look and feel of the original legends; the production also features an authentic and energetic rockabilly backup band. You will feel as though you are witness to a rock-n-roll royalty jam session with the legendary performers whose music has stood the test of time.
Tickets start at $25. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, click on smokymountainarts.com or 828.524.1598.
The Haywood Choral Society will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday Dec. 4, at the Waynesville First United Methodist Church.
This holiday season, the HCS will be performing Dan Forrest’s “Requiem for the Living,” which the highly acclaimed composer distinguishes from traditional requiems, composed originally as masses for the dead. Forrest is a local composer, living and working in Greenville, South Carolina, whose compositions include choral, instrumental, orchestral works.
In addition, the HCS will perform traditional and contemporary holiday pieces by composers including John Rutter and Bob Chilcott, as well as a gospel rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus.
HCS is funded by the Lake Junaluska Assembly and supported by a grant obtained from the North Carolina Arts Council through the Haywood Arts Council. In addition, the chorus is supported by its “chorus angels.”
Admission is free; donations are welcome. haywoodchoralsociety.org.
A fundraiser for REACH of Haywood, the inaugural “Jingle Jam” will feature a full day of live music and fellowship at the brandnew event space at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville.
Presented by Adamas Entertainment, the event will take place from noon to midnight Saturday, Dec. 3, at 40 Commerce Street. The event will feature an array of acclaimed regional acts, including Abby Bryant & The Echoes (indie/soul), The Get Right Band (rock/jam), Pink Beds (indie/rock), The Jackson Grimm Band (Americana/folk), Arnold Hill (rock), Appalachian Renegades (Americana), and Andrew Scotchie & David Earl (indie/folk).
REACH of Haywood: A local 501(c)(3) non profit organization that provides aid to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse. REACH offers advocacy, emergency shelter, community outreach, and prevention education to empower individuals to live a self-sufficient life free of violence. For more information, click on reachofhaywood.org.
Admission is $12 per person for “Jingle Jam.” The Fuego food truck will also be onsite at Frog Level. To purchase tickets, you can do so the day of the event or go to eventbrite.com and search “Jingle Jam Waynesville.” Sponsorships and volunteer positions are also currently available. Any and all help is greatly appreciated.
A “Jingle Jam” pre-party will be held with the Tricia Ann Band from 9 p.m. to midnight Friday, Dec. 2, at The Scotsman in Waynesville. The pre-party is free and open to the public.
Ready for ‘Jingle Jam’?
Abby Bryant. (File photo)
• Balsam Falls Brewing (Sylva) will host an open mic from 8 to 10 p.m. every Thursday.
Free and open to the public. 828.631.1987 or balsamfallsbrewing.com.
• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host a semi-regular acoustic jam with the Main
Street NoTones from 7 to 9 p.m. every first and third Thursday of the month. Free and open to the public. For more information, click on blueridgebeerhub.com.
• Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host karaoke at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, trivia at 7 p.m. on Thursdays and an “Ugly
Sweater Party” 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.246.0350 or boojumbrewing.com.
• Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Orchard Sessions” on select dates.
Tickets start at $25 per person. For tickets, click on oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.
• First Presbyterian Church of Franklin will host the “CareNet Benefit Concert” at 3 p.m.
Dec. 4. Admission to the concert is free, with a love offering being taken for CareNet. FPC-
Franklin will match the first $1,000 of donations. The Brasstown Ringers will also perform at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 (free, with donations encouraged). For more information, please contact the church office at 828.524.3119.
• First United Methodist Church (Franklin) will host the Mountain Voices Christmas
Concert 7 p.m. Dec. 8. Free and open to the public. Donations encouraged. franklin-chamber.com.
• Folkmoot Friendship Center (Waynesville) will host Darren Nicholson with Tim
McWilliams, William Ritter & Audie Blaylock (Americana/bluegrass) 7 p.m. Dec. 13. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. For tickets, click on folkmoot.org.
• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host
Bemi Dec. 2, “Jingle Jam” with Abby Bryant & The Echoes (indie/soul), The Get Right
Band (rock/jam), Pink Beds (indie/rock), Arnold Hill (rock/jam), and more from noon to midnight Dec. 3 (admission is $12), WeThreeSwing (jazz) 5:30 p.m. Dec. 6 and Ashley Heath (rock/soul) 7 p.m. Dec. 16. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. 828.454.5664 or froglevelbrewing.com.
• Frog Quarters (Franklin) will host Dan
Watkins & Steve Vick 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 3. Free and open to the public. Located at 573 East Main Street. littletennessee.org or 828.369.8488.
• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will host “Trivia
Night with Kirk” from 7 to 9 p.m. every
Tuesday, Open Mic Night every Wednesday,
Liz & The Kidd Dec. 1, “Ugly Sweater Holiday
Party” w/Shane Meade (indie/soul) 5 p.m.
Dec. 15 and J.R. Williams (singer-songwriter)
Dec. 16. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. innovation-brewing.com.
• Innovation Station (Dillsboro) will host
“Music Bingo” with Hibiscus Sunshine every
Wednesday and Calico Bear Dec. 2. All events begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. innovation-brewing.com.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host Trivia
Night at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday, Old
Time Jam 6:30 p.m. every Thursday and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host Glory String Players (Appalachian/Christmas) at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 8. Free and open to the public. 828.488.3030 or fontanalib.org/brysoncity.
• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host Open Mic Night w/Ivor Sparks every Wednesday and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 or mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.
• Nantahala Brewing (Sylva) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.641.9797 or nantahalabrewing.com.
• Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala
Gorge) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows behind at 5 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. noc.com.
• Quirky Birds Treehouse & Bistro (Dillsboro) will host Open Mic Night at 7 p.m. every Tuesday and semi-regular live music on the weekends.
Free and open to the public. 828.586.1717 or facebook.com/quirkybirdstreehouse.
• Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.369.6796.
• The Scotsman (Waynesville) will host The
Carter Giegerich Trio (Celtic/bluegrass) from 2 to 5 p.m. every Sunday, Borderline Band (Americana/country) 8 p.m. Dec. 1, Tricia
Ann Band (rock) Dec. 2, Rene Russell (singer-songwriter) 8 p.m. Dec. 8 and The
Jacktown Ramblers Trio (bluegrass) 8 p.m.
Dec. 9. All shows begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 or scotsmanpublic.com.
• SlopeSide Tavern (Sapphire) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.743.8655 or slopesidetavern.com.
• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing
Arts (Franklin) will host the “One Christmas
Night in Memphis” tribute concert to Elvis
Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and
Johnny Cash will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 9.
For more information and/or to purchase • Southern Porch (Canton) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.492.8009 or southern-porch.com.
• Stecoah Valley Center (Robbinsville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.479.3364 or stecoahvalleycenter.com.
• The Ugly Dog Pub (Cashiers) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. 828.743.3000 or theuglydogpub.com.
• The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.526.8364 or theuglydogpub.com.
• Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host
Blackjack Country Dec. 1, Carolina
Freightshakers Dec. 2 and GenePool Dec. 3.
All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.2488.
• Valley Cigar & Wine Co. (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows are at 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.944.0686 or valleycigarandwineco.com.
• Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host
Kendra Hope Dec. 1, Karaoke with Jason Dec. 2, 6 and 9, and Keil Nathan Smith Dec. 8. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.926.7440 or valley-tavern.com.
• Whiteside Brewing (Cashiers) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.743.6000 or whitesidebrewing.com.
• Wine Bar & Cellar (Sylva) will host semiregular live music on the weekends. 828.631.3075 or facebook.com/thewinebarandcellar.
• Yonder Community Market (Franklin) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. Donations encouraged. 828.200.2169 or eatrealfoodinc.com.
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(File photo)
HCAC ‘Small Works’ showcase
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 or smaller in any dimension, 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.
HCAC also encouraged participants to create works that celebrate Appalachian heritage and craft.
“Our vision is that this exhibit embodies not only the giving spirit, but also a multicultural spirit that speaks to the diversity of people, cultures, and religions that make up Appalachia,” Beryl said.
A reception for the exhibit will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at Gallery & Gifts. For more information, click on haywoodarts.org.
• ArtWagon Mobile Art Studio will be parked from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, at Lazy
Hiker Brewing in Franklin. 828.349.2337 or lazyhikerbrewing.com.
• “Cultivating Collections: Glass” exhibition will be on display through Dec. 9 in the
Fine Art Museum at the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and until 7 p.m. on Thursday. 828.227.ARTS or visit bardoartscenter.wcu.edu.
• Southwestern Community College Swain
Arts Center (Bryson City) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. For more information on the upcoming classes and/or to sign-up, click on southwesterncc.edu/scc-locations/swain-center.
• Dogwood Crafters in Dillsboro will host an array of upcoming art classes and workshops. For more information and a full schedule of activities, click on dogwoodcrafters.com/classes.html or call 828.586.2248.
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Western Carolina University will host its annual “Bachelor of Fine Art Portfolio Exhibition” through Dec. 9 at the Fine Art Museum in Cullowhee.
This exhibition gives graduating students in the WCU School of Art and Design the opportunity to share their work with the wider community in Western North Carolina.
Fourteen studio art majors and 16 graphic design majors, all who have followed a rigorous art curriculum during their time at WCU, will share their creations ranging from paintings and book arts to motion graphics and poster design.
The BFA program of the WCU School of Art and Design prepares emerging artists for a career or postgraduate study in art, design, or related disciplines. BFA students gain a foundation in observational drawing, 2D design, 3D design, and art history, and then select a studio emphasis to focus their area of study.
Studio art majors choose an emphasis in painting and drawing, ceramics, photography, sculpture, or print and book arts. Graphic Design majors explore communication design, interactive media, typography, and motion design, all the while developing professional production skills.
The Bardo Arts Center echoes the WCU School of Art and Design’s goal of preparing students for a career after they have finished their degree. BAC not only works with the students through this exhibition but also through curriculum and performances that enrich their college experience and provide a different perspective on the world around them.
In this exhibition, the students are given the freedom to create, explore their artistic voices, and collaborate with a museum that is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
There will be a reception for the exhibition from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be available at the reception. Free parking is available at the BAC lot at 199 Centennial Drive.
To learn more about the exhibition, click on arts.wcu.edu/bfa2022. To see BAC’s full calendar of events, please visit arts.wcu.edu/explore or call 828.227.ARTS.
Waynesville art walk, live music
The final “Art After Dark” of the year will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, in downtown Waynesville.
Each first Friday of the month (May-December), Main Street transforms into an evening of art, music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors.
Participants include Metzger’s Burl Wood Gallery, TPennington Art Gallery, Twigs & Leaves Gallery, Haywood Handmade Gallery, Jo Ridge Kelley Fine Art, Sun Sohovich Art Gallery Studio, Green Hill Gallery, Curatory Gallery, and The Corner Station.
It is free to attend Art After Dark. For more information, click on facebook.com/galleriesofhaywoodcounty.
On the stage Carden to spin yarns
Gary Carden. (Garret K. Woodward photo)
Beloved Appalachian storyteller, author and playwright Gary Carden will be telling tall tales from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, in the Meeting Room at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.
The 2012 North Carolina Literature Award winner, Carden has become as iconic as the Appalachian lore he’s passionately written about for decades. He will spend an hour telling fantastically entertaining and educational stories about childhood, family, heritage, and local history.
The event is free and open to the public. 828.524.3600 or facebook.com/maconcopl.
On the table
• “Flights & Bites” will be held starting at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s
Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville. For more information on upcoming events, wine tastings and special dinners, click on waynesvillewine.com.
• A free wine tasting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. every Thursday and 2 to 5 p.m. every
Saturday at The Wine Bar & Cellar in Sylva. 828.631.3075.
• “Take A Flight” with four new wines every
Friday and Saturdays at the Bryson City Wine
Market. Select from a gourmet selection of charcuterie to enjoy with your wines.
Educational classes and other events are also available. For more information, call 828.538.0420.
• “Uncorked: Wine & Rail Pairing Experience” will be held from 10:30 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. For more information and/or to register, call 800.872.4681 or click on gsmr.com.
a benefit for REACH a bEnEfIt fOr ReAcH
Frog Level Brewing
Abby Bryant & The Echoes 9-11 The Get Right Band 7-8:30 Pink Beds 5:30-6:45 Jackson Grimm Band 4-5:15 Arnold Hill 2:30-3:45 Appalachian Renegades 1-2:15 Andrew Scotchie & David Earl 12-1
ON-SITE
Saturday · DEC.3 12PM-12AM
• The 47th annual Bryson City Christmas
Parade will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, on Everett Street in downtown Bryson City.
Floats, marching bands, fire trucks, Santa &
Mrs. Claus, and much more. 828.488.3681 or greatsmokies.com/events. • “Holiday Market” with local artisans will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday through Dec. 17 at 117 Island Street in
Bryson City. Outdoor event. Leashed pets are welcome. 828.488.7857 or greatsmokies.com/events. • “Christmas Hayrides Through the Lights” will run on Wednesdays through Saturdays until Dec. 23 at Darnell Farms in Bryson City.
Enjoy the hayride and a cup of hot cocoa.
Limited seating available. Reservations are priority with limited walk-ins. There will also be a “Santa’s Workshop” onsite. darnellfarms.com or call 828.488.2376. • The popular “Polar Express” train ride will resume rides on select dates from the Great
Smoky Mountains Railroad depot in downtown Bryson City. For a complete listing of departure dates and times, call 800.872.4681 or click on gsmr.com. • “Letters to Santa, Cocoa & Cookies” is now being offered by the Swain County Heritage
Museum and Visitor Center in Bryson City.
Complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. Kids will love the opportunity to write and mail their letters to Santa. Materials provided, with the last day to submit letters being
Christmas Eve. greatsmokies.com. • “Christmas Lights Drive-Thru” will run through Dec. 31 at the Great Smoky
Mountains Event Park (formerly Inspiration
Park) in Bryson City. For more information, a full schedule of activities and/or to purchase tickets, click on greatsmokies.com/christmas-light-show-bryson-city.
CASHIERS
• Cashiers Christmas Parade will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. The onemile 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. discoverjacksonnc.com.
DILLSBORO
• Innovation Station will host its “Indoor
Holiday Market” from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 3 and 10. Free and open to the public. If you’d like to be a vendor, email beer@innovationbrewing.com. For more information, click on innovation-brewing.com.
FRANKLIN
inside stores, free holiday attractions (weather permitting), refreshments, hot cider, great sales from local merchants, and much more. The celebration will continue throughout the holidays in December. franklin-chamber.com. • “Scott Thompson: Christmas Back Home” will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the
Performing Arts in Franklin. Filling the stage with music, stories, laughs and more,
“Christmas Back Home” will kick start your holiday season and have your toes tapping to your favorite Christmas tunes. From blues to reggae and jazz to rock, they’ll turn classic holiday tunes new again with a delightful twist on some well-worn favorites as well as original songs that are sure to become classics. Tickets start at $18 per person. For more information, click on smokymountainarts.com or call 828.524.1598. • Mountain Voices Christmas Concert will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at the
First United Methodist Church in Franklin. An evening of Christmas music, both secular and sacred. The performance will include songs by the full chorus and feature additional instrumentalists. Admission is free. Donations will be collected to support Mountain Voices: a community chorus under the direction of Beverly Barnett and accompanied by Mary Pittman with 50 members from around Southern Appalachia.
Dillsboro’s ‘Lights & Luminaries’
The annual “Lights & Luminaries” will return from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2-3 and 9-10 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 old-fashioned horse and buggy rides.
With retail shops offering a variety of quality arts and crafts, unique gifts, clothing, gourmet foods and wine, and specialty Christmas items, the festival also 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 on Front Street.
For more information, call 828.586.1439 or click on dillsboronc.info.
LAKE JUNALUSKA
• ”Christmas at Lake Junaluska” will be held
Dec. 9-11 at the Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center. Lessons & Carols will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at
Memorial Chapel. The service will be led by the Rev. Susan Giles, with music provided by
Hilda Ryan and special guest guitarist Mark
Shultz for a candlelit singing of “Silent
Night.” From noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, board the four-passenger vis-a-vis carriage or eight-person wagonette for a leisurely 15minute ride that offers breathtaking lakeside mountain views and a unique view of the decorated Rose Walk along North Lakeshore
Drive. To participate in this activity, reserve your seat online. Stop into Junaluska Gifts &
Grounds and the Lake Junaluska Golf Course Pro Shop, or visit Christmas Memories in historic Lambuth Inn for your last-minute gifts. To book the lodging special, call 800.222.4930. For more information on the Christmas activities, click on lakejunaluska.com/events-calendar/christmas-lakejunaluska.
SYLVA
• There will be a Polar Express and Teddy
Bear Sleepover at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, in the Community Room at the Jackson County
Public Library in Sylva. Join the event in your
PJs and don’t forget your teddy for a fun
Polar Express-themed night. After a story, the group will tuck in their teddies for their sleepover. Just don’t forget to pick them up on Friday. This program is free and open to the public. This event is co-sponsored by the
Friends of the Jackson County Public Library.
For more information, please call the library at 828.586.2016. The Jackson County Public
Library is a member of Fontana Regional
Library (fontanalib.org). • Sylva Christmas Tree Lighting will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, in front of the Historic Jackson County Courthouse on
West Main Street. There will also be a
Christmas music concert onsite. discoverjacksonnc.com. • Sylva Christmas Parade will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, on Main Street. The parade takes place along Historic Main
Street for celebration, cheer and a chance to see Santa. The floats start at, and end at,
Mark Watson Park after a loop through town. discoverjacksonnc.com. • “Holiday Fireworks” will be held from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, on West Main
Street in Sylva. discoverjacksonnc.com.
WAYNESVILLE
• “Strand of Lights” drive-thru light show will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. through Dec. 30 at the Smoky Mountain Event Center (formerly the Haywood County Fairgrounds). Tickets for the nightly show are available online at 38main.com, with only 100 cars per onehour time slot. This helps reduce wait time and traffic congestion for a more enjoyable experience. Admission is $20 per vehicle. The drive-thru winds around the Smoky Mountain
Event Center campus for nearly one-mile.
Play your favorite carols (and sing-along) as the route takes you past numerous 2D displays, mixed with lighted buildings and holiday experiences throughout. • Waynesville Christmas Parade will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5, on Main Street.
Parade starts at First Presbyterian Church and proceeds down Main Street to Bogart’s
Restaurant. downtownwaynesville.com. • “A Night Before Christmas” will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 10 and 17 in downtown Waynesville. Hundreds of Luminaries, live music, clogging, church choirs, Santa &
Mrs. Claus, storytelling, holiday treats and beverages, and more. For a full list of participants and events, click on downtownwaynesville.com.
