SMN 12 14 16

www.smokymountainnews.com

Western North Carolina’s Source for Weekly News, Entertainment, Arts, and Outdoor Information

December 14-20, 2016 Vol. 18 Iss. 29

Junaluska Sanitary District policy upsets landlords Page 11 Upcoming tuition drop could have costs for WCU Page 19

CONTENTS

STAFF

On the Cover: Being a county commissioner can be a demanding and controversial job with little pay to show for it. Most commissioners work full-time jobs during the day while fitting in the county business as needed, but the satisfaction comes from serving the community and not from the part-time monetary compensation. (Page 6) Mark Hakett photo

News Stronger language wanted for Jackson steep slope rules ......................................3 Two charged with starting Tennessee fires ................................................................4 Election do-over slated for spring 2017 ....................................................................10 Junaluska Sanitary District policy upsets landlords ................................................11 Canton approves incentive money for BearWaters ..............................................12 First indoor gun range to open in Haywood ............................................................13 Pickin’ Chicken in Waynesville ......................................................................................14 Highlands hires Josh Ward as town manager ........................................................16 Swain to implement reverse 911 system ..................................................................17 Upcoming tuition drop could have costs for WCU ..............................................19 Education briefs ................................................................................................................21

EDITOR/PUBLISHER: ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: ART DIRECTOR: DESIGN & WEBSITE: DESIGN & PRODUCTION: ADVERTISING SALES:

CLASSIFIEDS: NEWS EDITOR: WRITING:

ACCOUNTING & OFFICE MANAGER: DISTRIBUTION: CONTRIBUTING:

Scott McLeod. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . info@smokymountainnews.com Greg Boothroyd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . greg@smokymountainnews.com Micah McClure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . micah@smokymountainnews.com Travis Bumgardner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . travis@smokymountainnews.com Emily Moss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . emily@smokymountainnews.com Whitney Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . whitney@smokymountainnews.com Amanda Bradley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jc-ads@smokymountainnews.com Hylah Birenbaum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . hylah@smliv.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Jessi Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jessi@smokymountainnews.com Becky Johnson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . becky@smokymountainnews.com Cory Vaillancourt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cory@smokymountainnews.com Holly Kays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . holly@smokymountainnews.com Garret K. Woodward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . garret@smokymountainnews.com Amanda Singletary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . smnbooks@smokymountainnews.com Scott Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . classads@smokymountainnews.com Jeff Minick (writing), Chris Cox (writing), George Ellison (writing), Gary Carden (writing), Don Hendershot (writing), Susanna Barbee (writing).

CONTACT WAYNESVILLE | 144 Montgomery, Waynesville, NC 28786 P: 828.452.4251 | F: 828.452.3585 SYLVA | 629 West Main Street, Sylva, NC 28779 828.631.4829 | F: 828.631.0789

P:

Opinion I love newspaper readers, but please read carefully ..............................................22

A&E Christmas classic comes to life in Bryson City ......................................................28

INFO & BILLING | P.O. Box 629, Waynesville, NC 28786 Copyright 2016 by The Smoky Mountain News.™ Advertising copyright 2016 by The Smoky Mountain News.™ All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The Smoky Mountain News is available for free in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain and parts of Buncombe counties. Limit one copy per person.

Additional copies may be purchased for $1, payable at the Smoky Mountain News office in advance. No person may, without prior written permission of The Smoky Mountain News, take more than one copy of each issue.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Outdoors

SUBSCRIPTION:

1 YEAR $65 | 6 MONTHS $40 | 3 MONTHS $25

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

Farmers grapple with effects of historic drought year ............................................42

2

AFFLICTION • MISS ME • INOX • HOT LEATHERS • MUSTANG • BELL • FULMER • VOCAL • EASYRIDERS ROADWARE • OAKLEY • DRAG SPECIALTIES

Last Minute Holiday Shopping

BIG

10% off *

$50-99

Open until

m Christmas2p Eve Closed Christmas

20% off * $150199.99

DISCOUNTS 15% off * 25% off *

OFF YOUR

PURCHASE!

$100149.99

$200 & Up

*Excludes Indian & Slingshot Merchandise and previously reduced or clearance items

Exit 100 off US 74 - 82 Locust Drive | Waynesville, NC 828.452.7276 | Visit SMSH.co for our Full Inventory of Bikes Tues–Thur 9am–6pm, Fri & Sat 9am–5pm, Closed Sun & Mon

Stronger language on the way for Jackson’s steep slope rules A

A QUESTION OF DEFINITION

Approval of the 38-home Solitude development in Cullowhee spurred the Jackson County Planning Board to revisit the recently passed steep slope ordinance to make the language clearer and easier to enforce. Jackson County graphic

The ridge protection ordinance defines a protected ridge as one that’s 3,000 feet in elevation with a 500-foot drop to the adjacent valley floor — again with no definition for adjacent valley floor. tion for adjacent valley floor. The steep slope ordinance is more restrictive, putting a protected ridge at 2,500 feet or greater with a 400-foot drop to the adjacent valley floor.

“We need to have that standard the same across both of them,” Baker said.

BOARD MAKE-UPS SET TO CHANGE Ultimately, the planning board will be working to pull all the county’s disparate zoning ordinances into a single, comprehensive ordinance. That will be a gargantuan task requiring a significant investment of time.

But merging the steep slope and protected ridge ordinances now won’t create extra work, Poston said. Any work done to merge the two ordinances can simply be rolled into the larger task of creating a unified land development ordinance.

However, merging the ordinances could cause the knotty issues that made the last steep slope revision process so divisive to resurface.

“I don’t believe that any of these problems that we’re talking about here are insurmountable that we can’t come to some equitable definition of an adjacent valley floor or a ridgetop or a lemonade stand,” said board member Ken Brown. “What I think it boils down to is a philosophical question of whether you want to give more protection to what’s left of the county that we can protect.”

The consensus on the philosophical side of the revision could be influenced by the results of the 2016 election. When the steep slope revision process began in 2013, it was under the supervision of a board of commissioners composed of two Democrats, two Republicans and one Independent. When Democrats took control in the 2014 elections, the revision process — guided by board members who had been appointed by the newly Democratic board — favored a more restrictive approach to steep slope development.

In November, Republicans Ron Mau and Mickey Luker unseated Democratic incumbents Vicki Greene and Mark Jones, and it remains to be seen what — if any — impact the new membership will have on the direction of steep slope revisions. At the end of December, five terms on the 11-member planning board will expire, and it will be up to the new board of commissioners to fill those seats.

The revision process will be a lengthy one likely to require several more months to complete, so the new planning board members will have an impact on the final result. And, because commissioners are the ones who have ultimate say as to whether a planning board draft becomes an ordinance, so will the opinions of the new commissioners.

“For us to be able to go and take something to the commissioners, we’re going to need to have buy-in from the existing board at that time,” Baker said.

Smoky Mountain News

The issue is that the ordinance contains no definition for “adjacent valley floor.” The ridge in question on the Solitude property had three nearby valleys that could be considered adjacent. Two of them met the 400-foot threshold, and one did not.

“We can go with the worst-case scenario there, the most restrictive, but they (the developers) will go back to why did you pick that valley and not that valley over here?” said John Jeleniewski, senior planner for the county. Thus, the planning office had to go with the least restrictive interpretation of the ordinance.

At first, the planning board considered getting rid of the adjacent valley floor provision altogether. Simple elevation is easy to define, easy to map, easy to enforce.

Including the adjacent valley floor stipulation makes it harder for the public to understand the ordinance and harder for the county to enforce it. Mapping a protected ridge definition that includes the adjacent valley floor

will entail a massive undertaking on the part of Jackson County GIS employees.

However, after an hour-long discussion Dec. 8, planning board members opted to keep the adjacent valley floor provision in the definition. That stipulation is needed, they said, to allow the ordinance to focus its protections on the most prominent ridges in the landscape. Going by elevation alone would restrict development on ridges that feature higher elevations but don’t sit that far above the surrounding landscape.

“The southern end of the county is going to sit higher, so every ridge — just in elevation, whether it’s prominent or not — will be captured, whereas that doesn’t necessarily happen in the central and northern parts of the county,” Michael Poston, the county’s planning director, told Michael Poston the planning board when describing the impact of an ordinance without the adjacent valley floor definition.

Defining adjacent valley floor will only be the beginning of the planning board’s work regarding the steep slope ordinance. Other definitions are needed as well, such as a definition for ridgeline — should the highest point of a ridgeline be the highest point within the boundaries of the property in question, or should county staff trace the path of the ridgeline across multiple parcels to determine the highest elevation?

“It’s almost like trying to describe how to tie your shoe in writing,” said Board Chairman Scott Baker — get one word wrong or omit one minor step, and the whole operation is thrown off.

Then there’s the question of whether rules regarding ridges should even be captured in the steep slope ordinance, which is listed in the county code of ordinances as the mountain hillside development ordinance. The county also has an ordinance called the mountain ridge protection ordinance, which dates back to the 1980s and was adopted to mirror state ridge protection standards.

“As far as our staff is concerned, in enforcement it makes sense for the protected ridge language to be in the protected ridge ordinance instead of splintered off in another ordinance,” Jeleniewski said.

But before the two ordinances can be sorted out, some key differences will have to be resolved. The ridge protection ordinance defines a protected ridge as one that’s 3,000 feet in elevation with a 500-foot drop to the adjacent valley floor — again with no defini-

December 14-20, 2016

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER pproval of a 38-home subdivision in Cullowhee has served as a catalyst for the Jackson County Planning Board to revisit the county’s steep slope ordinance, a controversial piece of legislation that passed in 2015 after nearly three years of heartfelt debate. If the last few planning board meetings are any indication, the next round of steep slope discussions will also be a lengthy and complex conversation.

The ordinance aims to regulate development on sensitive mountain slopes and to restrict new construction on ridgetops, where buildings are visible from miles around.

Specifically, the ordinance restricts development on protected mountain ridges, which are defined as ridges of at least 2,500 feet in elevation with a minimum drop of 400 feet to the adjacent valley floor The 21.5-acre Solitude property contained a ridge higher than 2,500 feet with a valley sitting more than 400 feet below it.

Nevertheless, ambiguity in the rules allowed the development to get approved, leading the planning board to look at how the rules could be better written to accomplish their intended purpose.

“I think that was exactly the kind of thing it (the ordinance) was written to prevent, but I didn’t think we had strong enough language to be able to do it,” said board member Bonnie Claxton of the Solitude decision.

“That’s why I want to strengthen that language, no matter how we do it.”

3

news

Two charged with starting Tennessee fires

December 14-20, 2016

Juvenile defendants being detained while investigation proceeds

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER wo juveniles have been arrested in Tennessee for allegedly starting the Chimney Tops 2 Fire, which ballooned to encompass more than 17,000 acres and led to the deaths of 14 people after hurricanestrength winds swept it through Gatlinburg and parts of Pigeon Forge Nov. 28.

The pair is being held at the Sevier County Juvenile Detention Center, facing charges of aggravated arson, a Class A felony

T

that for adult defendants carries a sentence of 15 to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. Aggravated arson is a crime that involves intentionally starting a fire when a person suffers “serious bodily injury as a result of the fire or explosion,” according to Tennessee law.

Because the defendants are juveniles, their sentencing will depend mightily on how the case is prosecuted. Juveniles are sentenced differently than adults, with sentences aimed at addressing the issues that led to commission of the crime. Juveniles who serve time as a result of crimes prosecuted in juvenile court can be held only through age 19, said Sara Reynolds, youth services officer at the Sevier County Juvenile Detention Center.

“In juvenile court probably the worst thing would be a commitment to the state,” Reynolds said.

At this point, it’s impossible to say what kind of sentence an aggravated arson charge might carry in juvenile court, Reynolds said.

“Additional charges are being considered and all options available to the state when dealing with juveniles are on the table,” James Dunn, Tennessee Fourth District Attorney General, said in a Dec. 7 press conference. “Including the possibility of seeking a transfer of these juveniles to adult criminal court.”

Due to laws surrounding the release of information in cases involving juveniles, Dunn would not reveal any further information, such as the defendants’ genders, ages,

Smoky Mountain News

Two arrested for arson in Qualla wildfires

4

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER Two Cherokee men have been arrested in connection with wildfires set on the Qualla Boundary this fall.

Anderson Wildcat Jr., 27, and Craigan Stan Wildcat, 35, were arrested on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Craigan Wildcat faces nine charges of arson in the second degree, while Anderson Wildcat faces one charge of arson in the second degree. The men have not yet entered a plea but have court dates scheduled for Dec. 21 and Jan. 25, 2017.

Of the tens of thousands of acres of wildfires burning in Western North Carolina this fall, 756 acres were located on the Qualla Boundary. Those 756 burned acres were the result of 15 separate fires that started Nov. 2. The fires were managed as a single unit, the Dobson 3 Fire, by the Sierra Front Type 3 Team. No structures were damaged in the blaze and nobody was injured.

Nearly all the wildfires that burned through forested lands in North Carolina this fall are being investigated for possible arson. However, investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been made in any of the fires that originated on national forest land. In Tennessee, two juveniles have been arrested in connection with the Chimney Tops 2 Fire that swept through Gatlinburg Nov. 28.

Fire glows on the Qualla Boundary as the result of blazes believed to be arson. Donated photo

residence or relationship to each other.

However, he said, they are residents of Tennessee but not of Sevier County.

The Knoxville News Sentinel reported that “sources familiar with the teenagers and investigation” said the defendants are boys aged 15 and 17 years old who are friends and residents of Anderson County. If that is the case, one of the defendants — the 17year-old — could be tried as an adult because he is older than 16.

The arrests were the result of a joint investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the National Park Service, the Sevier County Sheriff ’s Office and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. No information is being released as to the evidence that led to the arrest or, specifically, how the defendants allegedly started the fire. However, a tip line set up by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was critical to the process, Smokies Chief Law Enforcement Officer Steve Kloster said at the Dec. 7 press conference.

“The public was crucial in responding to that tip line and giving investigators something to work with,” Kloster said. “The tip line had approximately 40 tips within just a few minutes of going online.”

According to an official with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who wished to remain anonymous, park personnel discovered struck matches discarded at intervals at the site of the fire.

While arrests have been made, the investigation is by no means complete. Additional charges are on the table, and authorities aren’t ruling out additional arrests.

Investigators have been working “tirelessly” since the fire began, said Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Director Mark Gwyn.

“This investigation is active and ongoing and we still have a

F

lot of work to do,” Gwyn said. “Our promise is that we will do every effort to help bring closure to those who have lost so much.”

11 am 6 pm

Customer Appreciation Sale

Boutique • Formalwear • Tuxedos

BUY ONE ITEM GET SECOND ITEM OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE

HALF OFF

W h e r e S a n ta S h o p s

24 E. Main St. Franklin

828.369.7300

The Basics of Beef – What do they eat?

Based on a visit to Brasstown Beef (supplier for Ingles Markets) for entire post: http://inglesinfoaisle.com/dirty-boots-and-the-basics-of-beef One of the things that you will often hear Brasstown Beef’s (Ridgefield Farm in Brasstown NC) representatives say is that their cattle are “always on grass.” To accomplish this, the cattle are always in pastures with grass and/or hay and are offered a free-choice corn silage (fermented feed) based ration. You may be thinking, “but corn is a grain!”.. actually botanically, corn is a part of the grass family www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/ethnobotany/food/grains.shtml. To make corn silage, the whole plant (leaves, stalk, cob) is harvested (chopped) while still green and then piled up, packed down, and covered. This mixture “ensiles” (basically means it ferments), nutrients are converted so it is more nutritious for the cattle, and it becomes silage. Farm Manager Tim Dietz recommended thinking of it “.. kind of like kimchi for cattle…with all the probiotics.”

Note: One of the common misconceptions is that beef cattle are constantly fed grain. Most of the beef we eat comes from cattle that have spent the majority of their lives grazing on grasses with some supplemental feed as needed or necessary. In many commercial operations, cattle are shipped to feedlots when they are a certain age or weight where they are finished (fed until they reach a desired weight) on a higher carbohydrate feed with more grain before being processed.

Smoky Mountain News

A Ph.D. in ruminant nutrition consults with Ridgefield to make sure feed ratios are appropriate and nutritionally balanced for the animals. The “free choice feed” also includes a specially formulated mixture of minerals and probiotics, and a supplement developed at Ridgefield Farm consisting of cinnamon, kelp and garlic.

December 14-20, 2016

The fire resulted in the deaths of 14 people, with 12 of those deaths directly caused by the fire and the remaining two indirectly related to the blaze, Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters said in a press conference Dec. 13. One person died of a heart attack while attempting to escape, and someone else perished in a traffic accident while evacuating, Waters said. Of the 14, 13 of the dead have been positively identified with identification likely to be finalized soon for the remaining person.

Current estimates put the damage caused by the fire at more than $500 million, Waters said, with 2,640 structures damaged or destroyed. There are still 13 displaced people staying at a Red Cross shelter, down from 1,400 people the night of the fire. As of Dec. 12, fire fighting costs for the Chimney Tops 2 Fire totaled $7.1 million.

Some have criticized the lack of warning afforded residents of Gatlinburg the night of the fire. Chalet Village resident Michael Luciano told The Smoky Mountain News that the first warning he had of the oncoming firestorm was a small ember he spotted falling through the air outside his home, despite the fact that power was on and the news was turned on.

However, emergency management officials laid out the situation during the Dec. 13 press conference to explain the factors limiting their ability to effectively warn people.

The fire started Wednesday, Nov. 23, at the north spire of the Chimney Tops, Deputy Superintendent Clay Jordan said, covering about 1.5 acres when firefighters arrived. Due to oncoming darkness and rocky terrain, they had to leave it overnight and come back in the morning, when a 410acre containment area was identified and firefighters set about creating containment lines accordingly. The area was too rugged to safely and effectively attack the fire directly, Jordan said.

By Saturday, the fire was still only 6 acres, and a four-day analysis the park requested from the U.S. Forest Service modeled slow, downhill fire growth — no mention of the windy weather that materialized Monday. On Sunday, the park requested a localized forecast from the National Weather Service, which predicted morning winds of 12 miles per hour with 25-mileper-hour gusts growing to 20 mile-per-hour winds with 40-mile-per-hour gusts by 6 p.m. Monday.

The winds proved much stronger. A weather station at Cove Mountain, just above Gatlinburg, measured a gust of 87 miles per hour at 6 p.m., just before the weather monitoring equipment lost power and measurements ceased.

The winds carried embers that created spot fires as far as 3 miles away from the main fire — that’s how far the fire that was found at the Twin Creeks area Monday

Open House Wed. Dec. 14 Sat. Dec. 17

news

MAKING OF A FIRESTORM

morning was from the existing Chimney Tops Fire. Even on Sunday, spot fires were popping up a half-mile or more from the Chimney Tops.

“What we were observing was extraordinary fire behavior,” Jordan said. “Spot fires a half-mile or more from the fire in this part of the country in our experience is extremely rare. In fact, the incident commander had never experienced this in the Southeast in 25 years of fighting wildland fire.”

On Sunday, Jordan said, it seemed “inconceivable” that the fire would travel the roughly 5 miles necessary to impact Gatlinburg, but nevertheless the park notified the Gatlinburg Fire Department of the situation, and the city firefighters began to prepare themselves for what Fire Chief Greg Miller at the press conference called the “unlikely possibility” that the fire would enter Gatlinburg. Engines were staged, a fire break was constructed around the park boundary, and on Monday voluntary doorto-door evacuation notices were given to residents of the Mynett Park neighborhood, judged to be the most vulnerable area of the city. About 200 firefighters arrived from all over the state, the greatest callout ever assembled in Gatlinburg.

But the wind carried the fire to burn the city from multiple ignition points in “a matter of minutes,” Miller said.

By 6 p.m. Monday, mandatory evacuations went out to multiple neighborhoods, with the Ski Mountain Road area added by 8 p.m. But the process was complicated by falling telephone poles, damaged cell towers and an overall breakdown of communication system. Door-to-door notifications continued, with resources concentrated to the most vulnerable areas. Warning sirens went off downtown using a system intended to warn of flood danger, not fire danger.

“As a professional emergency responder, in spite of all the lives that were saved I, along with my fellow emergency responders, will always grieve the lives lost,” Miller said.

Smokies Superintendent Cassius Cash said that, going forward, the park will work to identify lessons learned to better prepare for any similar situations in the future. But it’s possible, Jordan said, that the unique power and unpredictability of the Nov. 28 firestorm is something that could never be adequately prepared for.

“We believe there was no way we could have controlled the fire prior to the wind event,” Jordan said. “Second, the reality is that we believe that no number of firefighters or fire engines could have stopped the spread of this fire in such extreme wind conditions.”

For now, the Sevier County community is working to move past the tragedy and rebuild its place as a travel destination for people from all over the world.

“Sevier County is open for business, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is open for business,” Waters said. “We encourage our visitors who love these mountains to come back.”

SMN reported the Dec. 7 press conference based on video posted by the Knoxville NewsSentinal and the Dec. 13 conference based on video streamed by WATE in Knoxville.

5

news

Full-time work, part-time pay

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER arry S. Truman’s Secretary of State Dean Acheson said upon his return to private life, “I will undoubtedly have to seek what is happily known as gainful employment, which I am glad to say does not describe holding public office.”

While holding public office in the United States isn’t usually all pain, it is usually no gain. American culture has long held disdain for those who enrich themselves by suckling at the public teat, and a Smoky Mountain News investigation proves that — at least locally — the salary and benefits offered to county commissioners in Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties aren’t making any of them rich.

In fact, many of the businesspeople, professionals and retirees who currently occupy the halls of government across the region do so to their own detriment, and to that of their families, their free time, and their finances.

Most devote at least 10 hours a week to the job, but oftentimes they are called upon to do much, much more. There are meetings, more meetings, and then even more meetings.

Then there are the emails. The phone calls. The reading. The writing. The arithmetic.

Then come the campaigns, the debates, the forums, the questionnaires, the endorsements and the door-knocking.

The constant media scrutiny. The barbed social media slights. The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. The five-minute trip to the market that ends up becoming a 30minute debate on the philosophical role of government in society.

And all that before even a single vote is cast.

But as Thomas Jefferson said, “A nation that rests on the will of the people must also depend on individuals to support its institutions in whatever ways are appropriate if it is to flourish. Persons qualified for public office should feel some obligation to make that contribution. If not, public service will be left to those of lesser qualification, and the government may more easily become corrupted.”

The overwhelming majority of county commissioners we spoke to during our research indicated that money was nowhere near the top of the list of reasons they give of their time and talents to serve their friends and neighbors.

However, county commissioners are real people, too, with mortgages, car payments, utility bills, retirement plans, hopes and dreams — which is why commissioners in our

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

H

four-county coverage area all receive some sort of salary, along with transportation and technology allowances.

Some, like in Haywood County, also receive health insurance that can last far longer than their tenures on their various commissions.

Such public outlay does — and should — invite public curiosity; the inevitable stereotype among the uninitiated is that “government fatcats” take advantage of small workloads and large paychecks, much like the “honest graft” mentioned by powerful turn-of-the-century New York Democratic machine politician George Plunkitt in his seminal work, “Plunkitt of Tammany Hall.”

Today, the reality of the situation is far different than in Plunkitt’s time. Commissioners are bus drivers, land survey-

County commissioner compensation Population

Chairman Commissioner Meeting Health Travel Technology Salary Salary Pay Insurance HAYWOOD............58,000................$14,802 ............$12,952..................0....................$10,200 ............$2,400..........$108/mo.

JACKSON .............40,200................$17,100 ............$12,200..................$75................$9,200 ..............$2,600..........$0 MACON................34,459................$11,724 ............$10.062..................0....................$562 .................$4,800..........$0 SWAIN .................14,000................$12,545 ............$6,273....................0....................$7,200 ..............$3,250*........$0

To serve, Haywood Commissioners leave money on the table

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER t just 22 years of age, Kevin Ensley became one of the youngest licensed land surveyors in the entire state after earning an associate’s degree in civil engineering from Asheville-Buncombe Technical College.

Since then, surveying has been his primary occupation; although industry estimates vary widely, the average professional surveyor can expect to make more than $60,000 a year.

But in 2002, Ensley won a seat on the Haywood County Board of Commissioners, ceding some of his professional time to the 6 people of the county where he was born.

A

ors, retired educators and mechanics. They take time away from their already-busy lives to ponder the issues of the day as they plant trees under whose shade they’ll never sit.

Or, they emerge from a hard-earned retirement to spend their time sitting through hearings that would make most eyes glaze over with either puzzlement or sheer boredom.

But the debate about just how “gainful” this ancient and honored form of employment should be continues.

Some argue current salaries are not enough; others think they’re already too much. Both sides have their points, but according to a 2015 survey conducted by the UNC School of Government, Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain county commissioner compensation packages are all located near the middle of the pack, with salaries between $10,000 and $13,000.

Orange County commissioners earn more than $21,000 per year, while Alleghany County commissioners earn just $3,000. Of course, these salaries vary by the amount of residents served — Orange at 133,000 and Alleghany at 11,000 — but population isn’t a hard and fast indicator of reimbursement.

Not that any of that matters anyway; at least one newlyelected local commissioner said he didn’t even know how much he’d be paid for his work.

Like Jefferson said, these commissioners have felt the obligation to make their contribution, that our government for, of and by the people will never be left to those of lesser qualification.

“I would say, with emails, responding to different things, I spend about 10 to 15 hours per week on it,” he said of his duties as a commissioner.

Those 10 to 15 hours are hours that Ensley could be spending surveying; instead, he shows up to twice-monthly county board meetings that can run two hours or more, receives and addresses constituent concerns, attends other associated board meetings — he’s the county’s representative on the Affordable Housing Task Force — and conducts his own research into the myriad issues brought before the commission each month.

His compensation? $12,952.04 per year.

“It’s not worth the money,” he said.

County Board Chairman Kirk Kirkpatrick

*Swain chairman gets $3,900 for travel

receives slightly more on account of his slightly greater duties — $14,802.79 — but as an attorney, Kirkpatrick is also almost certainly leaving billable hours and money on the table.

Ensley says he could certainly make more if he were to concentrate on his own business instead of that of the people. He also says that his other source of income, real estate investing, has been curtailed by ethics guidelines that prevent him from being involved in some transactions that involve the county.

So why do they do it?

“I always felt I had a good perspective on county issues, land, property, all that,” he said, adding that he continues to serve as commissioner so he can give back to the community.

“If you’re a public servant, you’re also like a volunteer,” he said.

At 15 hours a week, or 780 hours a year, a Haywood County Commissioner’s salary comes out to about $16.60 an hour, gross.

Extrapolated out to a typical 2,040-hour year of work, that translates to just under $34,000 per year.

Commissioner Michael Sorrells is in a similar situation to Ensley. He said he spends at least 10 hours a week on county business, whether it’s reading up on issues, communicating with county employees or administrators, or just chewing the fat with locals at the Marathon service station he owns on Jonathan Creek Road.

“It’s not a great amount of money,” Sorrells said. “But that’s not why I did it.”

Indeed, Sorrells probably loses money on the deal. He said he has to pay someone to fill in for him when he can’t attend to his own business.

Few would argue that the effort made by elected officials across the country doesn’t deserve compensation. In some municipalities, aldermen and commissioners work on government business full-time,

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER hen Mark Jones first ran for a seat on the Jackson County Board of Commissioners in 2006, he was the general manager of High Hampton Inn and Country Club in Cashiers, a demanding and well-paid position. But when he won the election, Jones knew he wouldn’t be able to keep the job while also fulfilling his newly acquired civic responsibilities.

Jones stepped down to a morning manager role at High Hampton, a position that is full-time but not year-round. High Hampton is closed for the winter, and unlike the general manager, the morning manager works only during the season. The position paid less than half what Jones had earned as general manager.

“I don’t, like so many people, live month-to-month, but I truly live April-toApril,” said Jones, who lost his re-election bid in November after 10 years on the board. “Come April I’m ready to work and make some money.”

Commissioners are paid for their service, but the salary is by no means a windfall.

In Jackson County, the annual pay is

W

Haywood County Commissioners (from left): Mike Sorrells, Kevin Ensley, Kirk Kirkpatrick, Bill Upton and Brandon Rogers. Cory Vaillancourt photo

THE PRICE OF PUBLIC SERVICE “Being a commissioner, it will absorb all the time you want to give it,” Jones agreed.

“I can truly see why a commissioner would really need to be retired to truly give the time it takes to be a commissioner.”

Jones estimates that being a commissioner occupied 15 to 20 hours of his time on an average week, especially if he included non-paid duties that nevertheless

December 14-20, 2016 To get a first-hand understanding of the demands local animal welfare volunteers were experiencing, Jackson County Commission Chairman Brian McMahan offered to drive a van full of 26 dogs to a no-kill shelter out of state. Donated photo $12,000 for commissioners and $17,000 for the chairman. In addition, commissioners receive a $2,600 travel allowance and access to a county-covered medical and dental plan. They do not, however, get the retirement benefits available to longtime county employees, such as a pension, continued health coverage or a 401k.

Commissioners receive a fee of $75 for each meeting they attend. In the 2015-16 fiscal year, meeting fees for commissioners totaled $8,850, an average of $1,770 per commissioner.

It’s difficult to calculate exactly how many hours commissioners work in exchange for that salary. The schedule varies with the time of year — duties are minimal in July right after the budget has passed but much heavier during the spring, when the budget is being assembled. Commissioners are often asked to attend events and serve

stemmed from the fact that he was a commissioner. Things like riding in the Memorial Day parade or emceeing the welcome back celebration the town of Sylva threw local band Mountain Faith when its members returned from a successful run on the TV show “America’s Got Talent.” Jones also included his drive time in that estimate, as it takes him about 45 minutes to drive from his home in Cashiers to the county building in Sylva.

On the absolute slowest week — one with no commission meetings and just routine phone calls, emails, one-on-one meetings or committee meetings — the job demands roughly eight to 10 hours, McMahan said.

But other weeks, the load can double. It just depends on what’s going on.

Like Jones, McMahan also had to work

Smoky Mountain News

the county is self-insured, costs go with claims, but the county budgets $850 per month for each commissioner’s health insurance.

Since 2013, that health insurance benefit has been extended to retired commissioners with at least a decade of service. Former Haywood County Commission Chairman Mark Swanger is the first commissioner to receive this benefit.

But the action resulting in retired “I would say, with emails, commissioners receiving the insurance didn’t originate locally. Session responding to different things, Law 2009-564, titled “An act to I spend about 10 to 15 hours authorize counties to provide health insurance benefits to former employper week on it.” ees who are not receiving retirement — Kevin Ensley, benefits,” made it possible for retired Haywood County commissioner commissioners — like other county employees with at least 10 years of Additionally, the scheduling flexibility service — to receive the benefit.

Salary, life insurance, travel and technolodemanded by the job — meetings can take place during regular 9-to-5 hours when the gy allowances for the five current Haywood vast majority of workers simply can’t leave County Commissioners combine to cost the their jobs for several hours in the middle of a county more than $85,000 each year; adding work day — also prevents the majority of what’s budgeted for insurance brings that total to more than $136,000. people from deciding to stand for office.

Considering a year’s worth of budgeted This often leaves town and county boards stocked with wealthier professionals like health insurance for one commissioner runs attorneys, businesspeople and retirees who $10,200, offering this benefit to retired commissioners has the potential to bring substanhave the money and the flexibility to serve.

On the other hand, lowering the salary for tial costs to the county for decades to come, what is essentially a “volunteer” position much like states where promised pensions could save taxpayers money, but would fur- have proven a substantial encumbrance on ther prohibit all but the most financially coffers. Ensley, however, doesn’t see it being a secure from serving in elected local govern- huge issue down the road.

Almost everyone on the commission has ment positions.

Most governments — like Haywood some other form of primary health coverage; County’s — walk a fine line between issuing older members qualify for Medicare, and othjust compensation and delivering value to ers, like Sorrells, take advantage of a spouse’s taxpayers. Both Ensley and Sorrells think the coverage, saving the county money.

Ensley said that until recently it’s been salary is just about right.

Salary, however, isn’t the only form of rare to see multi-term commissioners retain compensation given to commissioners in their seats for more than a term or two, hinting that in decades to come, there may not be Haywood County.

A $200 travel allowance and a $108.28 a roster of dozens of retired commissioners technology allowance are both paid monthly, continuing to draw lifetime benefits after which brings total gross compensation for achieving a decade of service.

“As a commissioner, you have to be electcommissioners to $1,387.62 per month.

The county also spends $1.43 bi-weekly ed three times,” he said acknowledging that on life insurance for each commissioner in the benefit may help lure more people to run.

“I think that means you’re probably doing a addition to offering health insurance.

County Manager Ira Dove said that since good job.” and can make salaries in the six-figure range.

But neither Sorrells nor Ensley thinks the salary should be raised. Or lowered.

On one hand, raising the salary substantially would theoretically help attract and retain competent public servants; many working-class folk simply can’t afford to give up a quarter of their working hours for a job that doesn’t pay all that much.

on boards. They receive phone calls and emails, study the issues they’re being asked to address, and find themselves drawn into impromptu political discussions while picking up a gallon of milk at Ingles or picnicking with their families.

“You could make it as much as you wanted,” said Commission Chairman Brian McMahan. “If I was retired and I didn’t have a full-time job, I could literally go down to the county office and sit there all day and find enough stuff to research and enough people to go talk to and engage in as many meetings as I wanted to.”

news

Carrying commissioner duties a juggling act in Jackson

S EE JACKSON, PAGE 8 7

news

Swain commissioners give little thought to salary

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ou know, I really can’t tell you what we get paid,” Swain County Commissioner David Monteith said when asked about his commissioner salary. “I’ve never done it for that purpose. To me, serving the people in the community is the main benefit of being commissioner.”

Monteith has been a county commissioner in Swain County for nearly 20 years. While every commissioner has a different kind of management style, Monteith is probably the most hands-on elected official and earns every bit of his $6,237 commissioner salary.

Monteith is retired from a career in management with Ingles Markets but continues to work part-time as a Swain County Schools bus driver. When he completes his route in the morning, he can usually be found at his office in the county administrative building working on county business.

“I put a tremendous amount of time into being commissioner, but I guess all it really requires is to show up at the meetings prepared,” Monteith said. “But I enjoy it — I definitely don’t do it for the money.”

Monteith and other commissioners have made numerous trips to Raleigh and Washington, D.C., to lobby their legislators for funding for Swain County. Trying to get the federal government to pay Swain County for flooding North Shore Road was the issue that spurred Monteith to run for commissioner in the first place — it’s a battle he’s still fighting today.

“There’s been more people in my lifetime in there for the title instead of serving the people, but people know I’m here to serve them,” he said. “I get an average of two or three people a week that call me with problems and I try to get out and help them — the commissioners are who they count on.”

Between the $12,545 a year paid to the commission chairman and the $6,273 a year

December 14-20, 2016

“Y

JACKSON, CONTINUED FROM 7

Smoky Mountain News

some things out with his full-time job when he became a commissioner. Both men expressed gratitude to their employers for being flexible but said that the balancing act could be difficult. McMahan, who is the assistant chief of security at Balsam Mountain Preserve, gets time off for commissioner duties by either using vacation time or rearranging his schedule to work on weekends. Many of his evenings are already spoken for, as he trains with the fire department — he’s been a volunteer there for 20 years — on Monday nights and attends church on Wednesdays and Sundays. He’s also married with two young children.

“When I’m at a meeting and it runs late into the evening, my family’s the one that misses out the most,” McMahan said.

Jones and McMahan differ on their assessment of Jackson’s approach to commissioner compensation. McMahan said he felt the pay 8 was adequate, about par for the course when

THE PRICE OF PUBLIC SERVICE for each of the other four commissioners, Swain County spends about $37,637 a year on commissioner salaries plus another $16,900 for mileage reimbursements for the board.

Elise Bryson, human resources director for Swain County, said the commissioners are also offered the same insurance options as any other full-time county employee.

They are given $10,000 worth of life insurance and $5,000 on spouse and dependents at no cost as long as they are in office. The county pays about $75 a year per employee for that benefit.

Commissioners are offered dental, vision and any supplemental insurance at the same cost as any county employee. Bryson said the county pays half of the cost of the dental for employees and dependents for all employees.

That cost for each employee is about $165 a year.

“They are offered health insurance at the same cost as any employee. When they leave, the coverage ends,” Bryson said. “Currently the county pays $500 per month for each employee. That cost is 6,000 per year.”

Commissioners are also covered under the county’s worker’s compensation policy.

The last time the salary for commissioners was adjusted was in July 2014 when they received a 1 percent cost of living increase.

Hearing about the benefits that come along with being a public servant was all new to Commissioner Kenneth Parton, who was just elected in November to serve his first term. It’s not something he considered when deciding to run for office. He just wanted to be a voice for the people.

Finding affordable health insurance is getting harder and harder. Taking on a part-time commissioner job with insurance coverage could be a smart option for someone who is

compared to other counties of similar size.

Jones, meanwhile — who is no longer on the board — said he felt the compensation should be higher.

“I would daresay it should be somewhere between $17,500 and $22,500 is what I think, that time that I put in,” Jones said. “I’m not trying to highball it at all. It could be a little bit more, particularly if you wanted the commissioners to be more public and more visible at certain public events.”

In addition, he said, it would make sense for the county to offer something in the way of retirement or continued health coverage — especially for those commissioners who have invested a substantial number of years in service to the county and perhaps sacrificed other career opportunities to do so.

The question of commissioner pay can be a balancing act. On the one hand, it can’t be so low that only people of means can afford the time commitment required. On the other hand, being a commissioner is a public serv-

Swain County Commissioners attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new helipad on U.S. 28 North next to the Tsali Overlook. Jessi Stone photo retired or even a small business owner who can’t afford a policy.

“I was surprised by the benefits they had — I never had any (health) insurance until I took this job,” Parton said.

While Monteith and Commissioner Ben Bushyhead are both retired, the other three commissioners have full-time jobs — Chairman Phil Carson works with his family-owned plumbing business; Commissioner Danny Burns is a technician for Pepsi Cola; and Parton works in several different aspects of the construction industry.

Bushyhead and Burns are the only commissioners who have opted out of the county insurance coverage. Parton’s insurance coverage will not be effective until Feb. 1, 2017.

Parton has positioned himself as a fiscal conservative on a board of Democrats, but he doesn’t have any problem with the compensation offered to commissioners. Now that he’s attended a couple of meetings and is beginning to see what a commissioner’s schedule looks like, he’s thinking it’s a fair pay.

“It’s going to be more time consuming than I originally thought — like today the commissioners are attending a ground-breaking ceremony and I can’t make it because of

work,” he said. “I mean, it’s not going to kill me or take too much from my regular job but I’m definitely going to take a little time to get the hang of it all.”

Compared to other counties in the region, Swain’s chairman salary is a bit less but somewhat in line with Macon and Haywood counties. However, the other commissioners are paid substantially less than their neighbors.

Macon County’s population is double that of Swain County, but Swain’s chairman gets paid about $1,000 more a year than Macon’s chairman. Swain also has a larger gap between the chairman and commissioner pay compared to other counties.

Monteith said the money didn’t hold any weight in his decision to run for office and doesn’t think candidates running for office are particularly interested in what benefits the county offers.

Parton agreed. A lack of benefits wouldn’t keep him from running, but spending too much for commissioner benefits would concern him.

“People have joked that I’m making the big bucks now but I have no problem telling them I get $6,000 a year and $3,000 for travel,” he said. “But I’m not for lifetime pay or benefits for someone who chose to do a job.”

“Being a commissioner, it will absorb all the time you want to give it. I can truly see why a commissioner would really need to be retired to truly give the time it takes to be a commissioner.”

— Mark Jones, Jackson commissioner

ice, so the salary can’t be so high that commissioners are seen as profiteering from their positions. A desire to serve the community should be the driving motivation to serve as commissioner — and both Jones and McMahan said that’s what has made the job worthwhile to them.

“It’s an important job,” McMahan said.

“There’s a lot of important issues that we’re dealing with that I’m very passionate about, like for example this issue of homelessness. I hope this becomes a main focus of the board for the next year or two to work toward a per-

manent solution.”

Seeing needed facilities come to fruition, helping constituents navigate difficulties and working to leave the county in a more secure position than he left it are the reasons that Jones kept coming back for more despite the demands of the job.

“To a degree there’s a relief,” Jones said of leaving the board, “but the rewards of the job far outweigh the pay. I’ve been involved with it for so long it’s become part of my day-today life. For the first time in my life, I don’t have anything to do between now and April.”

Macon commissioners not there for money

M

fy the number of hours a week that goes into it because it’s not a job you ever really leave.

“Everywhere you go you’re going to hear about a barking dog or a dirty yard — even when I go to church my best friend will be telling me about what he thinks the commissioners should do,” Higdon said.

While it can be demanding with bi-weekly board meetings that each can run three to fours hours, Higdon hasn’t found it to be such the juggling act that others have. He said he spends at least several hours a week on county business.

“I don’t let it be the center of my life like some commissioners do, but I do spend a lot of time studying and reading and researching issues,” he said.

Corbin said he was fortunate to own his own business and have the flexibility to serve

“County commissioners shouldn’t view themselves as full-time employees because then they can tend to get involved in the dayto-day operations instead of leaving that to the county manager,” Corbin said.

“Commissioners need to be able to look at tje county from 30,000 feet for long-range planning purposes.”

Higdon agrees that commissioners have to be careful about not micro-managing the county departments.

“When I took the commissioner job I swore an oath that I wouldn’t become a micro manager — our role is simple — levy taxes, collect taxes and fund services,” he said.

In addition to their salary, each board member gets $400 per month for travel and receives individual health insurance at a cost to taxpayers of $562 per month. They are also

“You need to know what’s going on to be involved — that’s why I’m involved in the state association because state issues impact the county.”

— Ronnie Beale, Macon commissioner

M

Smoky Mountain News

as commissioner while still earning a living.

Even with balancing all the responsibilities and time commitment for little financial compensation, Corbin thinks the pay is where it should be for Macon County.

“I think it’s fair — you know going in what it is and I think it gives you some compensation for your time but it’s not enough to do it for a living,” he said.

While some larger counties throughout the country choose to pay their commissioners a full-time salary for what amounts to a full-time job, Corbin said that mentality could lead to other problems. There should be a clear distinction between an employee and a commissioner so elected officials don’t try to micro-manage the county.

eligible for $30,000 worth of life insurance coverage at a cost of $6.30 a month.

“Board members may elect to cover family members under the health insurance and would pay a portion of the additional premium, just like employees,” Decker said.

“Otherwise, benefits such as dental and vision are voluntary and 100 percent employee paid.”

Unlike Haywood County, which offers lifetime health insurance coverage for commissioners who are elected to at least three terms, Macon County only offers health insurance coverage while in office.

Having health insurance was a major perk for Corbin, who is dealing with the transition into state insurance coverage now that his tenure as commissioner is over. He paid $300 a month for Beth (his wife) to be on the county plan.

“Our insurance ends Dec. 3, and as a legislator I will have insurance with the state and it will be $500 a month to add her on to it — but that coverage doesn’t start until Feb. 1,” he said.

While his salary as a state legislature will be less than $14,000 a year, he’ll be making less than he was as a commissioner because of the increased cost of health care.

“But that’s OK because I make a living in the insurance business and not the government,” he said.

embers of the Cherokee Tribal Council are hands-down the highest-paid local representatives in Western North Carolina, with other commissioner stipends paling in comparison to the $80,000-plus per year councilmembers receive as salary.

However, it’s a bit of an apples to oranges comparison, as being a Cherokee councilmember is a different job description than being a county commissioner or town board member. The Qualla Boundary isn’t a county. It’s a sovereign nation. Councilmembers could perhaps be more aptly compared to General Assembly representatives than to county commissioners.

Members of Tribal Council receive an annual salary of $80,600, with the chairman receiving $86,400 and the vice chair $83,500. The current salaries are about $10,000 higher than they were in 2014, when council voted to give itself a raise, effective immediately. The decision was the subject of vocal criticism and of a lawsuit, which wound up being dismissed in Tribal Court this summer due to lack of standing.

Councilmembers make substantially more than North Carolina legislators, who on most years take home between $30,000 and $40,000. However, they make substantially less than U.S. congressmen — the base salary for that position is $174,000.

Councilmembers are covered on the tribe’s health insurance plan.

Representatives who serve two or more two-year terms are also eligible for a pension, which is paid out on a sliding scale depending on how long the person has served. The tribe also provides any technological resources, such as a phone or a laptop, that the councilmember needs.

In addition to two all-day meetings each month, councilmembers participate in a variety of work sessions as well as committee meetings — each councilmember serves on anywhere from six to nine committees. They also attend community club meetings, travel to conferences, represent the tribe’s interests in Washington, D.C., and participate in a variety of community events and ceremonies.

As members of a small community, councilmembers are also in contact with their constituents whenever they leave their homes. Their cell phone numbers are published in The Cherokee One Feather and they often receive calls from tribal members to talk about everything from ideas for legislation to potholes in need of filling.

— by Holly Kays, staff writer 9

December 14-20, 2016

Macon County Commissioners visit U.S. Rep. Mark Meadows, R-Cashiers, (center) at his office in Washington, D.C. Donated photo

news

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR acon County Commissioner Ronnie Beale was pouring concrete on a job site when he was contacted about this story.

And when he isn’t doing work for his construction company, he can be found doing county business, serving on a community board or in Raleigh advocating for Macon County’s needs.

He chuckled when asked if the benefits commissioners receive are fair based on the work they do.

“Well, I put in more time than most because I’m involved with state association and I’m the NACO (National Association of Commissioners) representative for the state so I stay very busy,” he said.

A board member for the last 10 years, Beale is one of the most active Macon commissioners. In addition to several community boards he serves on, Beale also represents the county on the Department on Aging Advisory Board, inspections/building committee, and is the board liaison for the library and the school system.

Beale is also known well at the state level since he is the immediate past president of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and was appointed to the Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health and Substance Abuse by outgoing Republican Gov. Pat McCrory.

Beale and other Macon County commissioners take their “part-time” job seriously.

“You need to know what’s going on to be involved — that’s why I’m involved in the state association because state issues impact the county,” Beale said. “If you’re looking at the salary to make your decision on whether to run for office, you’d better just stay at the house.”

Outgoing Commission Chairman Kevin Corbin, who will be sworn in as a state representative in Raleigh Jan. 11, said his years as a commissioner have prepared him well for hard work with little pay.

“As chairman, I probably spent 20 to 30 hours a week on county business,” he said.

“Truthfully it’s a full-time job with part-time pay, but no one runs for county commissioner for the pay check.”

Mike Decker, Macon County’s human resources director, said the board chairman gets an annual salary of $11,724.63 while board members get $10,062.70 a year — that’s an annual cost of bout $52,000 a year.

The board members last received a 2 percent pay increase June 29, 2015.

It’s not a lot of money, especially considering most of the commissioners are giving up time and money at their full-time job to do the county’s business. Commissioner Gary Shields is the only retired member on the board — Corbin owns Corbin Insurance in Franklin, Commissioner Jim Tate owns Tate Landscaping Services in Highlands, Commissioner Paul Higdon works for his family business Sewer Solutions Inc., and Beale owns Beale Construction.

Higdon said he thinks the benefits offered are fair considering the work that goes into the job. He said it’s hard to accurately quanti-

Cherokee council makes more than state reps, less than congressmen

news

Election do-over slated for spring 2017

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER nless the U.S. Supreme Court steps in, some or all of North Carolina’s state senators and representatives will face re-election a year early, not even a year into their new terms.

This summer, the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina agreed with plaintiffs who alleged that 2011 legislative maps drawn by the Republican-controlled legislature were racially gerrymandered.

A three-judge panel consisting of two Democratic appointees and one Republican appointee found that some districts were designed to concentrate African-American voters — by and large, Democrats — into their own districts so that Republicans could make gains in other areas.

Nine senate districts and 19 house districts were singled out in the ruling, which resulted in an order from the court to the legislature to redraw the districts, even though the maps were approved by the U.S. Justice Department twice previously.

However, as the order was issued on Aug. 11, judges recognized that there was “insufficient time, at this late date,” for the legislature to redraw the districts, for the court to

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

U

10

review the districts and for the state to conduct a candidate-filing period and a primary election before the general election, despite the Nov. 8 election’s “unconstitutionality.”

Thus the Nov. 8 election results will stand, and those state legislators elected therein will by court order serve a one-year term, despite that order conflicting with Section 8 of North Carolina’s Constitution, which says that elections for the legislature “shall be held for the respective districts in 1972 and every two years thereafter.”

Legislators have until March 17, 2017, to submit new maps to the court, and must also set a primary election in late August or early September. The general election would coincide with municipal general elections scheduled for that November.

Although the 28 districts in question are nowhere near Western North Carolina — most center around Charlotte, Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Raleigh and Winston-Salem — nobody seems to know how many will be redrawn. Logic dictates that one district cannot be redrawn without affecting others surrounding it, but how far west will that go?

Sen. Jim Davis, R-Franklin, doesn’t see his far-western district being affected by the

ruling — but if it is, he’s planning on running again.

“Those nine [senate districts] will affect maybe 20 others,” he said. “But who knows, with these judges.”

State Rep. Michele Presnell, R-Burnsville, doesn’t agree with the court’s ruling and says she initially thought that there could be a “domino effect” leading to a complete redraw. However she also said she’s now hearing that won’t happen. If her district gets tweaked, she said she’s still running.

Rhonda Cole Schandevel, D-Canton, was soundly defeated by Presnell Nov. 8 but says she’s keeping her options open in the event of a redraw.

Outgoing Rep. Joe Sam Queen, DWaynesville, narrowly lost his re-election contest to Mike Clampitt, R-Bryson City, and sees things differently than Presnell.

“There’s no doubt about it,” he said of the districts. “They were gerrymandered for political advantage.”

Queen also wasn’t certain if a statewide redraw would happen, but opined that the Republicans doing the drawing would do whatever they thought might give them an advantage, meaning that a comprehensive overhaul could take place.

While Queen wouldn’t commit to trying to take his old seat back from Clampitt — who he’d beaten twice prior to the Nov. 8 election — he did say he was keeping his options open, like Schandevel.

“I will continue to advocate for Western North Carolina, and see how I can best do that,” he said.

Clampitt, for his part, wants to see what the Supreme Court says before committing to anything.

“Let’s wait and see how things shake out before putting any eggs out there to hatch,” he said. “I want to let the legal process do its thing before making any determinations.”

Whoever runs in this peculiar election will probably see circumstances favor Democratic candidates, since the urban areas already holding municipal elections tend to have more Democratic voters in them.

General Election results also found a good number of Democrats voting for Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump, especially in Haywood County.

Should he fail to please them over the next nine months, the surge that propelled Republicans like Clampitt into office could fizzle out in 2017.

The election that put Clampitt into the state house office also leaves Haywood County without a representative from within its own borders.

While not racially gerrymandered, Haywood County is grotesquely split between two house districts, with Clampitt representing the Waynesville core westward into Jackson and Swain counties and Presnell representing the outlying areas as well as Madison and Yancey counties to the east.

Haywood County is the most populous county in either district, despite even having a split precinct – Ivy Hill, part of which votes in Presnell’s district, and part of which votes in Clampitt’s.

Owners or property managers must co-sign for tenant’s water service

S

Voice your concerns The Junaluska Sanitary District Board meets at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at its office located at 558 Old Clyde Road, Clyde. For more information, call 828.452.1178.

security deposit — that doesn’t sound right.”

The next JSD board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15 — Rogers, Kroout and several other private landlords plan to attend the meeting to discuss their concerns.

The district’s website contains news announcements about a sewer discharge into Richland Creek, a discolored water advisory from the town of Waynesville and a water conservation notice, but no mention of the policy change that will affect many landlords and tenants.

Rogers has contacted the state Attorney General’s office for a legal opinion on the policy, but hasn’t heard back yet.

Nickols said he is confident in the district’s legal ability to implement this kind of policy.

“These policies were reviewed and approved through our legal representative prior to being approved by our board,” he said.

As a property manager, Rogers said she deals with every water department and utility company in Haywood County, but Junaluska is the only one that requires a landlord to cosign to receive service.

Nickols couldn’t say whether this type of policy is commonplace among other water districts, but did say sanitary districts are subject to a different set of statutes than a public water system managed by a municipality.

DONATE

SHOP VOLUNTEER WALNUT VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER 268-267

331 Walnut Street Waynesville

828.246.9135 HaywoodHabitat.org

Smoky Mountain News

are not paying and they aren’t terminating their service when they should be.”

Someone’s $200 deposit should cover at least a couple months of unpaid bills. Rogers is concerned that tenants will take advantage of the new policy and skip out on their bills before moving out of the rental. Before taking a drastic measure like holding landlords liable for their water bills, Rogers said, she hopes the board will re-examine its internal policies.

Besides the legal concerns about denying services to an otherwise qualified tenant, landlords are saying the sanitary district board acted unethically in adopting the policy. Nickols said the policy was effective as of Oct. 31 when the board approved it, but the notification letters property managers received were dated Nov. 21.

Kroot said he never even received the letter, but got a copy of it from Rogers. Even if he had received it, he said he probably wouldn’t have thought anything of it because of the vague wording.

“The way the letter was worded you can tell they did their best to keep it under the radar — it didn’t say they we’re going to make us liable for the tenants,” Kroot said. “They should have reached out to us before they passed this policy.”

When asked if property managers or water customers had a chance to provide input on the policy before it was adopted, Nickols said the board discussed the policy for about six months during its monthly

meetings, which are open to the public. Once it was passed, customers were notified on their November bills and the letter went out to property managers.

“They should have sent out a letter beforehand saying that they were losing money and the policy is going to be discussed,” Rogers said. “They should have invited people for input and talked to professional landlords who do this for a living.”

While the language in the letter didn’t sound like a big deal at first glance, Rogers said she had to dig through the district’s website to get a clearer picture. With more than 300 rental properties in the county — 71 of which are in the Junaluska district — Rogers is concerned about the policy’s affect on her business and her tenants.

“Potentially the only thing we can do is up our security deposit in case they don’t pay their water bill, but I’m hoping it doesn’t come to that,” she said.

Rep. Joe Sam Queen, D-Waynesville, manages about 150 rental units in Haywood County, many of which are in the Junaluska district, but he was unaware of the policy change when contacted for comment. He was in Raleigh for a special-called legislative session, but said he’d check to see if his office manager received the letter.

“I’ve never heard of anything like that,” he said about the policy. “That’s why you charge a

December 14-20, 2016

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR everal Haywood County landlords are questioning the legality of a new policy adopted by the Junaluska Sanitary District that will require them to co-sign on their tenants’ water service agreement.

Michele Rogers, co-owner of Select Homes in Waynesville, was caught off guard when she received a letter in the mail Nov. 21 from Junaluska Sanitary District notifying her of the policy change.

The change, which applies to all new applications for water service, will require property managers and their tenants to sign a Utility Service Agreement that will allow JSD to go after the landlord if a tenant doesn’t pay their water bill.

“I certainly think it’s unfair to landlords that they are being required to co-sign for their tenants,” said Rogers, whose company manages rentals for owners. “I question the legality of the entire policy because number one, they’re forcing someone to enter into a contract — it’s coercion into a utility contract — and number two, they are potentially refusing service to a qualified person because they are saying without a co-signer they won’t turn water on.”

Ron Kroot, a private landlord with 10 rental units in the Junaluska district, said the new policy was just one in a long line of problems he’s had with the water district management.

“I’ve been amazed at their lackadaisical attitude since I moved here in 2002, but what can you do with a utility company that has a monopoly?” he said. “It’s just frustrating because there’s nothing we can do about it.”

Josh Nickols, general manager and finance officer for Junaluska Sanitary District, confirmed that property managers would be responsible for any unpaid balance on an account before the water could be turned back on for a new tenant.

“We are a public service provider but it costs money to provide water and sewer. The money lost affects the entire district because we have to pay for that water,” he said. “The policy is not in place to go after the property owner but to protect the district and its overall cost impact and all its customers.”

Nickols said the board of directors for the district had to implement this new policy because the water district was losing money and having to write off more unpaid bills each year.

“Over the past two years, we have had to write off over $16,000 all due to rental properties where tenants leave us with unpaid balances,” he said. “These are all monies over and above the deposit we collect — meaning the district has already collect-

ed the deposit amounts and what was left over is the unpaid balance.”

Rogers said the water district had a larger internal problem if it was losing that much money on unpaid bills. As a customer of the Junaluska district herself, Rogers knows it has one of the highest deposits in the county.

To sign up for new water service, she paid a $200 deposit.

“My average bill is about $45 month — if they are losing money after collecting a $200 deposit, that is their fault,” she said. “People

news

Sanitary District policy upsets landlords

11

news

Canton rewards brewery owner

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

E

The Town of Canton’s new logo.

Point of contention Canton’s new town logo approved despite concerns The future location of BearWaters Brewing. eco-tourism destination” modeled after the “culture and quality” of the Sierra Nevada and New Belgium breweries in Asheville.

Plans for the brewery — in addition to beer and food — include indoor trees and an aquarium stocked with native fish intended for release into the brewery’s adjoining Pigeon River. A further link to the river in the form of a

74 North Main Street, Waynesville

I would like to share my excitement with you about my new professional home. I've moved to Beverly-Hanks & Associates, but you, and the people you refer to me, will still be provided the same warm and professional service as always. Please update your address book with my new contact information. And if someone you know is thinking of buying or selling, please let me know. I will provide them with the best service imaginable.

e n i r e h t Ca Proben

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

cproben@beverly-hanks.com 12

F

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER ven before BearWaters Brewing announced its intentions to leave Waynesville for nearby Canton, the town has touted itself as Haywood County’s most desirable place in which to locate a business.

On Dec. 8, the town delivered on prior promises to incentivize businesses that choose to relocate by giving the brewery $16,500 in economic development funding toward the work done to renovate its as-yet unopened location on Park Street.

In a letter dated Nov. 28, BearWaters owner Kevin Sandefur asked town officials for $21,000 and a free 4-inch sewer tap worth about $2,000.

Sandefur’s request included $14,500 for building improvements, $5,000 for façade improvements, and $1,500 for architectural design services.

The building improvements request went above and beyond the town’s $10,000

limit because of what Sandefur called “extensive” and unforeseen environmental, title and survey work prior to closing on the building.

“We believe in the future economic growth and revitalization of the downtown area,” he said in the letter, further saying that he believes the building — formerly a tire shop — “can be transformed into a cutting edge manufacturing, packaging and

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER o one can accuse Canton town officials of not crossing their t’s and dotting their i’s.

Vigorous debate over a much-needed logo presented to the town board last month as part of a comprehensive rebranding highlighted differences among the more progressive and traditional members of Canton’s town board.

The logo — designed by Maggie Valleybased design agency Creative Campfire — features symbolic imagery depicting Canton’s looming paper mill encircled by green arcs depicting mountains and blue waves representing the Pigeon River, all encircled in a large “C” fashioned to resemble the proverbial “gears of industry.”

At the center of the logo — and the spirited discussion at the town board meeting Dec. 8 — is a small dot, meant to represent the oneness or wholeness of the community itself, as well as the axle to which the gear would be attached.

“There are old folks like me who don’t get the symbolism,” said Alderman Carole Edwards.

Alderman Dr. Ralph Hamlett, however, said that people his age are indeed traditional but he likes the fact that the logo is targeted at “the type of individual we seek to attract.”

Canton lies perfectly positioned to capitalize on the plight of Ashevillians priced out of the housing market in that city. New businesses like Western Carolina Freightliner and BearWaters Brewing are bringing jobs and a sophisticated downtown culture to a town that desperately needs both of those things to catch the eye of prospective residents and businesses.

Canton’s new logo is meant to give those looking to relocate a sense of what the town offers in terms of nature and industry, and is the first serious makeover attempted in town since probably the 1970s, Town Manager Seth Hendler-Voss said.

But that dot — unassuming and almost overlooked amidst the more prominent features of the logo — seemed to cast a shadow across what the board felt was, overall, a solid effort.

There was talk of removing it, but Hendler-Voss, who comes from a design background himself, said that altering the logo would affect the integrity of the design as a whole, and suggested that the board either approve it as-is, or send Creative Campfire back to the drawing board.

When Alderman Zeb Smathers suggested looking at the logo without the dot, HendlerVoss said that doing so would cause the town to incur costs over the $5,000 already budgeted for the logo. In the end, the board decided that it simply wasn’t worth the potential cost.

“I’m traditional,” Alderman Gail Mull said, “but I showed it to my grandkids [aged 10 and 14] and they loved it.”

walk-up marina for thirsty kayakers will also be integrated into the design of an outdoor seating area.

Canton Alderman Dr. Ralph Hamlett made a motion to approve all of Sandefur’s requests.

But that motion died without a second as other aldermen pointed out that it would exhaust much of the town’s budgeted $35,000 for economic development assistance, leaving little money for other businesses that might approach the town before the first come, first serve development funds are replenished in a new town budget this coming July.

Mayor Mike Ray also cautioned the board against setting dangerous precedents by pay-

ing for costs associated with BearWaters’ real estate closing and connections to city sewer infrastructure.

What aldermen settled on unanimously was granting the $14,500 building improvement request, as well as the free sewer tap — which won’t come out of economic development funds — while urging BearWaters to return in the next few months to reapply for the rest of its requests.

Sandefur said he hopes to begin production in February, and open in May. He supposes he’ll create around 20 living wage jobs and further believes he will increase foot traffic in Canton’s revitalized downtown core, which he says will ultimately benefit all downtown businesses.

N

First indoor gun range to open in Haywood W

from the road and grading the site so the roofline wouldn’t obscure the ridge line — both of which resulted in the need for expensive septic improvements related to the unfavorable grade.

Work on the structure continued through the summer and is rapidly nearing completion; retail operations commenced in midNovember, and have been going well so far, Morrow-Rickman said.

The range itself is slated to open Dec. 15, if all goes according to plan. Although construction is complete, painters and electricians are hurrying to complete their portions of the job to meet the deadline.

In addition to retail sales, the range offers yearly memberships that allow for range access without paying an additional daily fee, as some other ranges require.

Memberships carry other benefits as well, such as special sales and priority access to shooting lanes over those with day passes, which the range also sells.

Another line of business Morrow said he’d hoped to tap into was that of local law enforcement agencies. Currently, armed officers in Haywood County have no local facility to meet their training needs.

Morrow thinks that once the range is open and word gets around, local agencies will consider keeping their officers — and taxpayer money — in the county.

news

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER hen local businessman Jule Morrow proposed a gun shop and indoor firing range in the pastoral Francis Farm community last winter, not everyone was excited about it.

Vociferous neighbors worried about the negative aesthetic, environmental and social consequences of the commercial building, which would house the largest indoor firing range in Western North Carolina and presumably draw an “undesirable” crowd to the quiet rural area. Their plea for county commissioners to stop the project went unanswered since the county lacks any land planning designations.

But as the range prepares to open later this month, the only thing notable about it has been the lack of complaints.

“We haven’t had any,” said Caroline Morrow-Rickman, who runs the retail side of things at Mountain Range on Palmer Road. “I’m sure some [opponents] wish it wasn’t here, but we’ve gotten a lot of good feedback so far.”

In particular, Morrow-Rickman said that neighbors appreciate the lengths the business went to in order to alleviate concerns over aesthetics. In June, Morrow said that to appease neighbors, he’d voluntarily incurred extra costs by moving the building further

Jule Morrow gets ready to open Mountain Range, an indoor gun range off of Francis Farm Road. Jessi Stone photo

“I’m sure some [opponents] wish it wasn’t here, but we’ve gotten a lot of good feedback so far.”

— Caroline Morrow-Rickman, Mountain Range

December 14-20, 2016 Smoky Mountain News 13

news

Pickin’ Chicken

“It was a little loud and a little bright, but it was good. People talking, having some fun. Nothing too raucous. But we had our earplugs and I actually slept pretty well.”

— Renee Allsbrook

Daniel Sellers said that when he and his wife arrived around 5:15 that morning, there were already a few cars in the lot.

“I live in the area, and I go to church in downtown Waynesville, so I drive past here every Sunday,” he said. “My wife had been to one of these [First 100 contests] before, so I looked it up on the website, read the rules,

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER There are few things more American than fast food.

In the United States, fast food restaurants serve more than 50 million customers each day; on average, we each spend more than $100 a month on the salty, fatty fare and consume 54 gallons of sugary carbonated soda each year.

For some, the opening of a new fast food restaurant — especially in a smallish town like Waynesville — is a cause for great celebration. Several dozen locals who have that kind of relationship with their ready-made meals chose to remember and celebrate the sacrifices made by our greatest generation by sleeping overnight in a parking lot on Dec. 7 to attempt to score free fast food for a year.

Waynesville’s first Chick-fil-A opened to much anticipation at 6 a.m. on the morning of Dec. 8, but not before more than a hundred people trickled in to the parking lot on Russ Avenue — some more than 24 hours prior — to participate in the vaunted chicken-slinger’s “First 100” contest.

It works like this — for the past 13 years, any time a new Chick-fil-A opens anywhere

in the dashboard-dining consumerist culture that is modern-day America, the company holds a contest promising a free “digital offer card” good for 52 combo meals consisting of a sandwich, fries and drink to the first 100 people who register.

Participants must be 18 with valid identification and from a neighboring zip code; registration begins 24 hours prior to the store’s grand opening, and those who survive the night outdoors — regardless of snow, sleet, hail, rain or scorching heat — walk away with a year’s worth of calories.

14

The Best Buy Seal and other licensed materials are registered certification marks and trademarks of Consumers Digest Communications, LLC, used under license. For award information, visit ConsumersDigest.com. Photo shown for illustration only. Actual product may vary.

Fast-food aficionados establish base camp outside the Chick-Fil-A in Waynesville. Cory Vaillancourt photo and came on out.”

As the warm fall sun slunk closer and closer to the horizon about 2 p.m. that afternoon, Sellers was playing cornhole on a set of dark blue “Brady Bunch” boards with some people he’d met that day.

His expectations were realistic, what with the 31-degree forecast issued for that night.

“I expect to get cold,” he laughed into the 55-degree air. “I’m not sure if they have any activities planned but we’ll just be tryin’ to catch some sleep, have some conversations, play some board games, just hang out.”

After arranging childcare for her four

children — aged 16 to 9 — church pianist Renee Allsbrook arrived with her husband Luke around 2 p.m. and sat quietly in front of a yellow tent with a red book on her lap.

There were 32 people who had taken up temporary residence in the lot by that time, up from around 20 at 5:30 a.m.

“I’m trying to enjoy having a long date here with my husband, and to get some work done for the church by picking out Christmas music for the next couple weeks,” she said.

When asked why she’d gone to such lengths to attend the

F

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Green's Auto Service

news

Thanks For Your Support

Servicing Jackson County & Surrounding Areas since 1966

Sheri Berger (left) and Meghan Boynton brave the chill hoping to win free food.

Cory Vaillancourt photo.

Congressman Mark Meadows, RCashiers, was elected on Monday to serve as chairman of the House Freedom Caucus.

“I am honored and humbled to receive the support of my colleagues for Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus. It is a position that I take very seriously, and as we look toward the coming year, I am tremendously excited about the opportunities we will have to make a difference for Americans on Main Street,” Meadows said.

The Freedom Caucus is a congressional caucus consisting of conservative Republican members of the House of

Representatives. It was formed by a group of Congressmen as a “smaller, more cohesive, more agile and more active group of conservatives.”

Meadows is also among a group of several conservative Congressional members who have formed the new “Second Amendment Caucus.” The group, led by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Kentucky, was finalized last week with the goal of developing and advancing legislation that will protect Americans’ Second Amendment rights while acting as a guard against over-reaching proposals. The group will also place a strong emphasis on firearm safety education, and they plan to hear from experts in the field on a regular basis on how to better address gun safety.

GREEN’S AUTO SERVICE

125 Asheville Hwy. • Sylva 828-586-9220 • 828-586-6629

Special Occasions and everyday fashions

CASHMERE COATS & JACKETS CHRISTMAS TREES FOXCROFT BLOUSES

20% 25% 10% 20%

OFF

OFF

OFF

OFF

Smoky Mountain News

Meadows will chair Freedom Caucus

As the night wore on, a DJ pumped hightempo tunes through an old speaker while the chain’s well-known plush cow mascot undulated to the beat.

But by 5 a.m., the lot was quiet despite the presence of dozens of tents; an afterwork rush of almost 70 people ensured that all 100 gift cards would indeed be given away.

“It was cold,” Sellers said of the night, during which he said he’d gotten about two hours of sleep.

“It was a little loud,” said Allsbrook, “and a little bright, but it was good. People talking, having some fun. Nothing too raucous.

But we had our earplugs and I actually slept pretty well.”

As the contest wound up at 6 a.m., Allsbrook said she was “very glad” to have won those 104 free meals for her family; she said she was heading home to make school lunches for her kids.

Berger and Boynton were nowhere to be found; apparently, at some point during the night, they’d chickened out.

December 14-20, 2016

event, Allsbrook said she was “a huge fan” of the restaurant and was excited at the prospect of earning free meals for her family.

“We’ve got our tent, and we’ve got some sleeping mats and sleeping bags, a little lantern and some warm hats,” she said. “I think we’ll be OK.” Sheri Berger and friend Meghan Boynton weren’t so lucky. Perched on collapsible camp chairs on the outskirts of the encampment, their spur-of-the-moment decision to attend left them less prepared than others.

“We don’t have a tent,” said Berger.

“We’re working on it,” said Boynton.

Berger had called Boynton, a high school student who was in biology class at the time, just that morning.

“You wanna go sit out in the parking lot of Chick-fil-A and get free meals for a year?”

Berger asked her.

Both admitted a love for the restaurant’s offerings; Berger said she wouldn’t get sick of it, either.

“I can eat French fries for lunch,” she said, “and chicken for dinner.”

15

news

Highlands hires Josh Ward as town manager Franklin clerk takes over as Bryson City town manager

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR ast September, the town of Bryson City hired Highlands’ town planner Josh Ward to serve as it’s new town manager, but as of Jan. 3, Ward is returning to Highlands to replace retiring Town Manager Bob Frye.

After an extensive application process last year, the Bryson City Board of Aldermen selected Ward to replace Larry Callicutt, who had served as the town’s manger for more than 15 years. Alderman Rick Bryson said the board and staff were sorry to see Ward go but they understood it was an offer he couldn’t turn down.

“It was a big surprise for all of us — Josh is as good as it gets,” Bryson said.

Even if his time in Bryson City was short, Ward said he earned a lot of valuable experience from his time there, including how to manage personnel, budgeting and grant implementation.

“I am proud of the grant opportunities that we have been able to secure, in order to improve the water and sewer infrastructure that is so vital long term to providing more effi-

approached about the job, Bryson said Simons felt he didn’t have the right experience to be manager.

Simons ended up moving to Franklin to serve as the town clerk, which allowed him to gain the experience he needed.

“So, when he was asked to apply again, he replied, ‘That would be my dream job,’” Bryson said. “In the interview last Friday evening, he showed his grasp of the job of town manager.

The board unanimously felt that we needed to look no farther.”

Simons will start Chad Simons work in Bryson City Dec. 28, which will give him a few days to work alongside Ward before he heads back to Highlands.

“I’m very much looking forward to the opportunity to work for the town of Bryson City. The town feels like home to me, and Josh has worked really hard on behalf of their board since he’s been there,” Simons said. “I’m stepping into a good, healthy situation because of Josh and the board’s stewardship. He set a high bar, but that’s certainly a good thing.”

Simons graduated from Franklin High School in 2005, graduated with honors from Western Carolina University in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in history and political sci-

ence. He also serves in the North Carolina National Guard as a medic, and will be finishing out his contract this fall.

He obtained his master’s degree in public administration from Appalachian State in 2011 and interned with the town of Franklin in 2010, and did another internship with the town of Seven Devils, located just outside of Boone.

Simons said he’s learned a lot during his tenure in Franklin that has prepared him for his new role, including working on two budgets, revamping the town’s human resources system, implementing a new pay plan for employees, and starting a safety program.

“And learning under (Town Manager) Summer Woodard has been a wonderful experience,” Simons said. “I can’t say enough about her sharp mind and toughness. We’ve tackled a lot of problems and we’ve persevered.”

The town of Franklin will now have to start the process of hiring a new town clerk.

Since serving dual roles as the town clerk and human resource officer in Franklin since 2014, Woodard said Simons always goes above and beyond for his fellow employees and the organization in which he represents.

“Simons is most deserving of this opportunity. It has been an honor and pleasure to work with him the last two years,” she said. “I wish him nothing but success on his future endeavor as the town manager for Bryson City.”

Lopi Cape Cod Lower Heating Costs With A Wood Burning Stove There’s nothing like the feel of the heat you get from a wood stove.

A wood fire is just cozy – the radiant and convective heat from your wood stove warms body & soul!

You will also reduce your dependence on high-priced, non-renewable heating fuels. Whether you buy your wood or collect it yourself, you will notice the savings within the first year.

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

L

cient services and to support economic development,” Ward said. “I feel my greatest accomplishments have been establishing new, up to date personnel policies and procedures.”

The move back to Highlands is an opportunity for Ward to reconnect with staff and residents of Highlands where he worked for eight years in the planning department and puts him back in his native county of Macon.

Ward’s unexpected departure put the Bryson City Board of Aldermen back in the same position it found itself in last year, but Josh Ward Bryson said the board went about things a little differently this time to find a new town manager. Since last year was the first manager transition the board members had been through in a while, they put an advertisement out and went through dozens of applications — Ward ended up at the top of the heap.

“Because Josh Ward had hands-on municipal experience in Highlands, we picked him and we’re not sorry,” Bryson said.

But also during that process, Bryson said several of the board members had Chad Simons in mind for the job as well. At the time, Simons was working for the Smoky Mountain Times as a reporter, but when

Grills, Fire Pits, & Outdoor Living Design & Installation

828-202-8143 CleanSweepFireplace.com 16

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR hen the wildfires were threatening structures in Swain County a couple of weeks ago, first responders had to knock on more than 200 doors to alert residents that they needed to evacuate.

While David Breedlove, Swain County’s emergency management director, said doorto-door is definitely the most effective way to notify people, it’s not always the quickest or safest way when there is an emergency.

That’s why he approached the Swain County Commissioners again about installing a reverse 911 system in the county.

“We haven’t had it in the past — it’s always lost out at the end of the budget year — but we need it,” Breedlove said.

Understanding the serious danger presented during the recent wildfires in the Nantahala National Forest, the commissioners unanimously approved Breedlove’s request.

Many other counties in the region utilize the reverse 911 system to notify residence of a fire, tornado, flood, etc. Breedlove said the county would pay about $5,500 a year to subscribe to a service that will alert people with a robo-call through their home phones or their cell phones. The service can also send text alerts to a cell phone and post alerts on social media outlets like Facebook and Twitter.

The only catch is residents have to actively sign up to receive the alerts. When the system is set up and ready to go, Breedlove said he would put a link on the county’s website — www.swaincountync.gov — for residents to submit their information to sign up for the alerts.

The reverse 911 won’t solve all the problems though.

“If communications are down, the reverse 911 won’t work,” he said, which is what happened in Gatlinburg when many residents weren’t aware of the need to evacuate.

That’s when the county would need to tag on the Federal Communication Commission’s emergency alert system. It will notify people who aren’t signed up for the reverse 911 alerts as well as tourists driving through the area.

“If you’re a tourist driving through a serious situation, we can use the FCC system and it will ping off the cellphone towers nearby to alert people’s phones,” Breedlove said.

Having the reverse 911 system installed before the rough winter weather settles in will be beneficial for Swain County.

news

Swain County to implement reverse 911 system

W

December 14-20, 2016 Smoky Mountain News

facebook.com/ smnews

17

Custom Christmas Card & Calendar Special news

5 1/2“ x 4 1/4” folded • Color both sides Comes with blank envelopes (Bring in 1 or 2 of your favorite photos or artwork)

Check out our new website Since 1982

50 cards $79.95 100 cards $99.95 Calendar Special $14.95 ea

(12 or 13 of your favorite photos)

641 North Main St. • Waynesville, NC

509 Asheville Hwy., Suite B • Sylva, NC

828.456.HAUS (4287)

828.586.HAUS (4287)

(3/10 Mile North of the Courthouse)

(Located in the NAPA Auto Parts Center)

Former first lady Laura Bush (center) with Jane Ann Fontenot, (from left) Marge Jackson, Peggy Weiss and Regan Gammon. Ken Howle photo

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

Laura Bush and friends visit Lake Junaluska

18

As fall visitors flocked to Western North Carolina in mid-October, Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center welcomed a distinguished visitor — former First Lady Laura Bush and a group of her childhood friends.

Bush and her friends make annual visits to national parks, and this year they chose the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for its hiking opportunities. While at Lake Junaluska, the group lodged at The Terrace hotel, explored the 2.3-mile lakeside walking trail and enjoyed area leisure activities.

Lake Junaluska Director of Advancement Ken Howle briefly encountered Bush and her friends as they sat overlooking the lake one evening before dinner.

“Just like other Lake Junaluska guests they were relaxing by the lake, reliving the day’s adventures,” Howle said. “You could sense their camaraderie and enjoyment of each other’s company.”

Her visit came 72 years after Eleanor Roosevelt, the nation’s longest-serving first lady, spent two days at Lake Junaluska with the Missionary Conference of the Methodist Church in July 1944.

Haywood TDA accepting funding applications The Haywood County Tourism Development Authority is now accepting 1 percent funding applications for all Haywood County zip codes, which includes 28751 (Maggie Valley), 28786 and 28785 (Waynesville), 28745 (Lake Junaluska), 28716 (Canton), and 28721 (Clyde).

This funding is for tourism projects that take place before June 30, 2017. The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30. Applications are to be turned in to the Haywood TDA office located at 1110 Soco Rd., Maggie Valley.

The 1 percent applications can be found at www.haywoodcountytourismdevelopment.com/partnership-funding.

828.944.0761.

Macon nonprofits join forces for homeless Macon New Beginnings, Inc. and Macon County CareNet have announced a formal partnership agreement.

The two nonprofits have been working

together to address the nutritional needs of homeless families and those families in danger of becoming homeless. This agreement demonstrates their combined commitment to address the food security challenge for those homeless or nearly homeless.

Macon New Beginnings is helping the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless in Macon County while CareNet programs strive to meet the nutritional needs of more than 400 Macon County residents who are unable to provide for themselves due to crisis.

Haywood NAACP meets to plan future The Haywood County NAACP will meet at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Law Office of Chuck Dixon, 137 Hazel St., in Waynesville.

Katherine Bartel will review the brainstorming ideas from the last meeting about ways to respond to hate in the community.

Then the group will break up into small groups to work on specific plans to address these ideas. All people of good will are welcome to attend. People can join the NAACP at the meeting.

Upcoming tuition drop could have unintended consequences

A

OF SUMMER SESSION Davis believes the coming summer session will prove just as popular as the previous one but told trustees that, as of now, he’s not sure what will happen in summer 2018, after N.C. Promise kicks in. He’s working proactively to find a solution that will preserve the appeal of summer school even after lower tuition rates kick in for the regular semesters.

“Summer session is hugely important for all institutions, but here at WCU I feel summer session is particularly important,” Davis said.

For one thing, he said, programs such as parks and recreation management rely on the summer term to capitalize on the educational experiences afforded by the region’s topography and biodiversity. Summer is often the best time to learn those lessons.

Summer session is also important for students whose majors require internships.

Because WCU is in such a rural area, students often find themselves needing to travel for the internship experiences they need.

“Summer session provides the ideal time to complete those requirements so they can be on campus during the regular term and not delay their traditional classroom progress,” Davis said.

Summer session is important to the school on a financial level as well. This year, summer classes yielded $3 million in revenue.

Those dollars are distributed proportionally among college deans to supplement the stateappropriated budget.

“In some cases, the summer revenue is nearly equal to the state allocation — effectively doubling departmental budgets for the year,” Davis said. “Over time, departments have grown while state appropriations have not, which has created a dependency on sum-

DAVID’S

Home Home Entertainment Entertainment & & Recreation Recreation

mer revenues for things like course supplies.”

Some programs are completely funded by summer school revenues. The Academic Success Program is one of those. The program helps students who wouldn’t typically meet admissions requirements get into college by attending the summer term prior to their freshman fall semester. Retention and persistence rates among participating students are high.

“Without the summer term revenues, this program will not run,” Davis said.

the results of that tour.

Multiple options for maintaining the attractiveness of summer session are available to the university. The most obvious would be to cut the cost so that it’s comparable to the rate offered during spring and fall.

However, Davis isn’t certain as to whether it would be feasible to drop the rate that low.

“We are aiming for a solution that will make summer session attractive and affordable to students, but that will also allow us to compensate our faculty and provide quality educational experi“Over time, departments have ences for students,” Davis said.

Other possibilities include grown while state appropriations offering more online sections for have not, which has created a some classes, increasing minimum dependency on summer revenues.” enrollments for some classes, offering more work opportunities — Lowell Davis, assistant vice chancellor on campus, increasing scholarship for student success dollars available for the summer and creating summer-specific Morrison-Shetlar told trustees that sum- courses. However, Davis said, summer session is mer session is important to the local econo- “a bit like a Rube-Goldberg machine,” with any my as well. one change inevitably having ramifications in “Some of our stores are excited when stu- other areas. Careful consideration will be dents come back in the fall, because they required before any approach is decided upon. don’t have as many people coming around,” Despite the numbers problem facing she said. “Continuing to make this viable is Western, summer session has some things not just for Western’s sake but also for the going for it that Davis believes will affect economic importance of our region.” enrollment going forward. For one, while stu“Especially as we grow during the primary dents can take summer courses at another, semesters, those small businesses have to step less expensive institution — such as a comup and grow,” added Trustee Bryant Kinney. munity college — and transfer the credits, “That makes that gap bigger in the summer.” the GPA earned from those courses does not transfer. So, students looking to boost their could still be drawn to summer session.

OOKING FOR ANSWERS GPA Davis also sees Western’s faculty as an asset to Davis and Faculty Senate Chair Bill Yang the future of the summer session.

“Students revere our faculty, and students recently completed a listening tour of campus to ask for feedback and suggestions from fac- who want to take courses from our noted faculty members and others on campus, and ulty would decide that WCU is a great option Davis is currently occupied with compiling for them,” Davis said.

L

December 14-20, 2016

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER state program that’s set to lower Western Carolina University’s tuition to $500 per semester could have unintended consequences when it comes to the university’s summer programming.

Unlike the fall and spring semesters, which are subsidized by the state, summer session is funded entirely by the tuition dollars it generates. So, when N.C. Promise — a state law that will heavily subsidize tuition for three North Carolina schools, including Western — goes into effect in 2018, tuition rates for the fall and spring semesters will drop to $500 apiece, but no funding will be available for summer session.

“N.C. Promise and summer session is what keeps me up at night,” Lowell Davis, the university’s assistant vice chancellor for student success, told members of the Board of Trustees during a committee meeting last week. “It’s $500 per semester tuition, and it costs more than $500 for a student to take a course in the summer. We are trying to figure out why a student would enroll in a summer course when they could take an extra semester, take 12 credit hours, and the cost would be comparable.”

Summer classes cost about $175 per credit, plus fees, so a three-credit course would cost about $525. With fees included, the cost would be just over $800.

“We’re very supportive of N.C. Promise,” Provost Alison Morrison-Shetlar told trustees. “We think it’s great, but there are some hidden consequences there that might not have been thought about.”

THE IMPORTANCE

news

WCU works to preserve appeal of summer session after arrival of N.C. Promise

452.5534

2566 Asheville Rd. Waynesville

Game Tables

DON’T LET THE FUN STOP WHEN OUTSIDE TEMPURATURES DROP

Smoky Mountain News

Ping Pong

Foosball 19

news

Merry Christmas

from Champion Credit Union

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

ARDEN à ® /LUKLYZVU]PSSL 9VHK à ® (YKLU 5* à ® CANTON à ® (JHKLT` :[YLL[ à ® *HU[VU 5* à ® WAYNESVILLE à ® >HSU\[ :[YLL[ à ® >H`ULZ]PSSL 5* à ® ASHEVILLE à ® 7H[[VU (]LU\L *VTPUN :VVU

20

Education

Smoky Mountain News

• The winners of the Haywood Early College’s National Career Development Association’s Annual Poetry and Poster Contest, The Joy of Work: Positive Approaches to Work, Career, and Life are Makayla Rollings, first place; Bailey Price, second place, and Braxton Messer, third place.

They received gift cards provided

by HCC’s Foundation and will now go to the state contest.

SCC student takes first place in Christmas parade Students in Southwestern Community College’s English Learning Acquisition program and Spanish Club collaborated to construct a float for the Sylva Christmas Parade that won first place.

The theme of this year’s parade was “A Cinema Christmas.” Students chose “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Island of Misfit Toys” as the theme for their float.

828.339.4262 or www.southwesterncc.edu.

SCC fall commencement set for Dec. 16 Southwestern Community College’s fall commencement ceremony will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, in Myers Auditorium at SCC’s Jackson Campus.

Commencement exercises are held at the end of each semester during the spring and fall. The ceremony will honor graduates from a wide variety of programs at SCC. SCC, which has been ranked among the nation’s Top 10 community colleges three times in the past decade, offers more than 45 academic programs and serves Jackson, Macon, Swain Counties and the Qualla Boundary.

Registration for spring classes is currently underway. www.southwesterncc.edu, call 828.339.4000 or visit your nearest SCC location.

WCU fall graduation set for Dec. 17 Western Carolina University will hold commencement exercises Saturday, Dec. 17, to honor its fall graduating class and a group of newly minted WCU alumni who were awarded degrees after this year’s summer school sessions.

The 1 p.m. ceremony at the Ramsey Regional Activity Center is open to everyone and no tickets are required for admission. Graduating student Brandon Todd Truitt will deliver the primary commencement address.

For those who cannot attend, the ceremony will be streamed live at www.wcu.edu/commencementstream.aspx.

Sky Sampson to lead WCU Cherokee Center Western Carolina University alumna Sky K. Sampson, manager of the Cherokee Boys Club Youth Council programs, has been named director of the university’s Cherokee Center.

An enrolled member of the Eastern Band,

21

• Sarah Ferguson, a sophomore at North Carolina State University, was recently recognized

by Evergreen Packaging for demonstrating sustainability leadership. She volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and participated in building projects and lead on-campus fundraiser events that help provide homes for those in need while also increasing awareness of the importance of recycling and reusing household products and building goods.

ALSO:

Sampson earned her bachelor’s degree in communication with a concentration in public relations at WCU in 2010 before going on to receive her master’s degree in human environmental sciences at the University of Alabama in 2014.

As director of the Cherokee Center, she will serve as a liaison between WCU and the communities and schools in Cherokee and the surrounding area. She will have primary responsibility for implementing the Cherokee Center’s Strategic Plan, which was developed jointly with community members from the Eastern Band and WCU. www.cherokeecenter.wcu.edu.

HCC provides support for transfer students Haywood Community College takes special care in preparing college transfer students for the next step in their educational journey by organizing college road trips in the spring and fall.

Students can choose to accompany a representative of HCC to Western Carolina University or the University of North Carolina at Asheville for an up-close look at life at these local colleges and what to expect on the subsequent step in the educational journey.

HCC also hosts a Community College Transfer Day where college representatives come on campus to provide information about their respective schools.

828.627.4579.

WCU, Isothermal ink hospitality degree Officials from Western Carolina University and Isothermal Community College recently signed an articulation agreement designed to ease the transition for ICC students wanting to study in WCU’s bachelor’s degree program in hospitality and tourism offered in the Asheville area.

The University of North Carolina Board of Governors last spring approved expansion of the existing Cullowhee-based program in hospitality and tourism to WCU’s instructional site at Biltmore Park Town Square. Classes will get underway there for the spring semester.

828.227.3294, jefleming@wcu.edu, or ht.wcu.edu

Schools partner for $1.77 million grant Southwestern Community College recently secured $370,000 in grant funding from Golden LEAF for equipment to be used in the college’s new health sciences simulation labs.

The cash infusion is part of more than $1.7 million in funding SCC’s Lynda Parlett helped secure for the college and its public school partners in Jackson and Macon County from Golden LEAF this year.

HCC criminal justice program earns awards The Haywood Community College Criminal Justice Program recently earned 13 awards from the 2016 Region 5 American Criminal Justice Association/Lambda Alpha Epsilon (ACJA/LAE) Conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Student Jennifer Keener finished first place in Police Management, first place in Corrections, third place in Juvenile Justice, and third place in LAE Knowledge; student David Edwards finished second place in Criminal Law; student Charity Hensley finished second place in Corrections; and students Charity Hensley, Isabelle Jowers, and Jennifer Keener finished first place in Crime Scene.

In the Professional Division, Advisor Chris Wyatt finished first place in Juvenile Justice, second place in Corrections, second place in LAE Knowledge, third place in Police Management, and third place in Criminal Law.

WCU nursing program receiving $1 million The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded the Western Carolina University School of Nursing a grant totaling nearly $1 million to develop community-based and primary care clinical experiences to help students enrolled in WCU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs prepare for careers in those health care settings.

The grant of will be spread over two years.

828.654.6523 or klivsey@wcu.edu.

• To honor the life of Jim Beasley and his wife Shirley, the family has endowed the Jim and Shirley Beasley Health Sciences Endowed Scholarship Fund to support Southwestern Community College health sciences students pursuing an associate or WNC RIBN (Regionally Increasing Baccalaureate Nurses) degree.

• The following Haywood Community College students received Golden Leaf Scholarships: Tyler Anthony, Automotive Systems Technology; Devin Claridge, Automotive Systems Technology; Nicole McCracken, College Transfer: Associate in Arts; David Parker, Industrial Systems Technology; Darren Smith, Computerized Integrated Machining; and Jessica Stiles, Nursing.

• Southwestern Community College respiratory therapy students Tasha Raper of Murphy and Brett Kerby of Lake Junaluska were recently each awarded with a $600 Jim Whitley Scholarship.

• Western Carolina University has been listed by The Princeton Review as one of the most environmentally responsible colleges in North America for the sixth year in a row.

news

LIQUIDATION PRICES — WHEN THEY’RE GONE, THEY’RE GONE!! LIQUIDATION PRICES

YEAR END CLEARANCE Sofas • Counter Stools • Reclinders Sheets • Pillows • Waterproof Mattress Pads Mattress & Box Spring Sets • Bed Frames Bedroom Suites • Headboards Children’s Beds • Bunk Beds Platform Beds • TV Stands • Futons

Warehouse & Floor Sample SALE! Storewide Discounts 533 HAZELWOOD AVE., WAYNESVILLE 828-456-4240 | MON – FRI 9-6 • SAT 9-5 • SUN 1-5

HAYWOODBEDDING.COM

GONE, THEY’RE GONE!! LIQUIDATION PRICES — WHEN THEY’RE GONE, THEY’RE

— WHEN THEY’RE GONE, THEY’RE GONE!! LIQUIDATION PRICES — WHEN THEY’RE GONE, THEY’RE GONE!! LIQUIDATION PRICES — WHEN THEY’RE

December 14-20, 2016

GONE!! LIQUIDATION PRICES — WHEN THEY’RE GONE, THEY’RE GONE!! LIQUIDATION PRICES — WHEN THEY’RE GONE, THEY’RE GONE!! LIQUIDA-

Smoky Mountain News

Bring in an item or find something here in our shop and let us make the holidays personal this year.

J J

We Will Be Open Til 8 PM On Christmas Eve

Wednesday 1/2 price Wine Thursday Prime Rib Specialty Cocktails All Week

454 HAZELWOOD AVE. WAYNESVILLE | 828-452-9191 Lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm | Dinner Nightly starting at 4pm | Closed Sundays

22

Monogramming Embroidery & Unique Gifts

448 HAZELWOOD AVE. WAYNESVILLE

(828) 246-0875 lilybellesonline.com

WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS? For information on advertising in this product call your Smoky Mountain News Sales Representative.

AMANDA BRADLEY · 828.273.2208 · JC-ADS@SMOKYMOUNTAINNEWS.COM HYLAH BIRENBAUM · 828.452.9283 · HYLAH@SMLIV.COM GREG BOOTHROYD · 828.452.4251 · ADS@SMOKYMOUNTAINNEWS.COM WHITNEY BURTON · 828.400.0947 · WHITNEY@SMOKYMOUNTAINNEWS.COM

Opinion I love newspaper readers, but please read carefully S Smoky Mountain News

What never changes — at least for those of us in the news business — is the cold hard fact that people don’t read our stories before jumping to conclusions.

I don’t really know which causes more problems: the skimmers — those who read the headline, the first graph, and the picture captions — or those who profess to have read the whole story but are so hell-bent on believing what they want that they just “miss” or “gloss over” the parts that might prove that theory wrong.

Editor Case in point: see below the letter from Mike Graham at the Jukebox Junction restaurant in Bethel. He’s part of that collateral damage I’m talking about. Last week’s story contained this line: … a manager at Jukebox Junction said that they’d chosen not to sell alcohol, and said they wanted it to remain a “family restaurant.”

Despite what was said in the story, he’s been fielding calls and taking reservation cancellations because some of his customers who are against drinking somehow were led to believe he was going to start selling beer, wine or both.

Let me back up a minute. I’m truly reluctant to say anything negative about anyone who reads newspapers. You are my people, my soulmates, the butter on my bread, the money

Scott McLeod

Story damages Jukebox Junction’s reputation in Bethel community

To the Editor: There was a story with the headline “Haywood County wipes the dust off the bottle” in the December 7 edition of The Smoky Mountain News. Along with the headline was a photo of the Jukebox Junction restaurant with the caption, “Restaurants like Jukebox Junction in rural Bethel can now sell alcohol, if owners so choose.”

Unfortunately, most people will not read the whole article to find the ten-word line buried in Pastor Roy Kilby’s comments that reflect that the Jukebox Junction will not be selling alcohol. Instead they read the headline, look at the photo, skim the caption and come to the assumption that the Jukebox Junction will be selling alcohol.

People have been calling and telling us that they will not come to the Jukebox Junction because the paper said we were going to start selling alcohol. One man even said he was going to call all the churches in the area and tell them to boycott the restaurant.

Of course, we corrected the record with them over the phone.

But what about the ones that didn’t call and just quit coming in? How do I reach them and let them know that that they misinterpreted the article? A party of 40 scheduled for Saturday night didn’t bother to show up. And our Sunday business was down by 30 percent of what it normally is.

Did The Smoky Mountain News intend to damage the reputation of the Jukebox Junction? Of course not, but nonetheless, it did and the damage has been done. Collateral damage so they say.

It’s not their fault that most readers only skim the story and come to the wrong conclusion from a poorly worded caption under a photo. The JukeBox Junction is on the record in an interview with WLOS TV 13 back in the spring stating that alcohol doesn’t fit into our business model.

A chocolate peanut butter beer shake just doesn’t sound appealing.

Mike Graham Bethel

that pays my mortgage. In an era of declining newspaper readership, local papers like this one continue to fill a vital role by reporting stories you won’t find elsewhere.

That said, I feel a little like that stern high school English teacher who loved the language but was compelled to berate students who couldn’t use the King’s English properly whether in writing or when speaking: I’m so glad you’re reading, but please read carefully.

As I said earlier, collateral damage in the newspaper world is difficult to avoid. If we write a story about how horrible traffic is on N.C. 107 in Sylva between Ingles and downtown, motorists who try to avoid that traffic hurt the businesses located on the strip. When we report on horrible wildfires in the region and the smoke they are producing, internet readers in Charlotte or Atlanta may choose to go to the coast and spend their money there.

In the case of Jukebox Junction, however, we printed the truth but used the imprecise wording on the caption for a picture of the restaurant. We were thinking the wording we used — “Restaurants like Jukebox Junction in rural Bethel can now sell alcohol, if owners so choose” — would lead people to read the story and find out who had and had not applied for a license, information that was in the story.

Obviously, as we found out later, it didn’t work. Another case of collateral damage.

(Reach Scott McLeod at info@smokymountainnews.com.)

A thank you to local media his time of year, as many people are counting their blessings, they also realize they want to publicly share their good fortune to others by ways of different acts of kindness — to family, friends and even complete strangers.

Sometimes, it can be easy to take our good Guest Columnist fortune for granted as our day-in and day-out routines take over our minds, so I want to use this Christmas and holiday season as an opportunity for a professional yet humble and thankful evaluation.

We at the Haywood County Sheriff ’s Office want to take a moment to thank our friends in the media here in our county. We are so fortunate to have a dedicated group of journalists who continuously help us get our message out to the community — in critical times as well as the lighter hearted times.

In the most serious of times, our local journalists don’t create a narrative to fill the gaps of information

T

Greg Christopher

ome things never change, and the reality of collateral damage from news stories is one of them. Plus the fact that I really just don’t like it when it happens.

Our cover story last week (www.smokymountainnews.com-/news/item/18931) examined concerns about how the presence of alcohol in rural Haywood County might change small communities like Fines Creek, Bethel or Jonathan Valley.

I don’t think beer and wine at convenience stores, gas stations or restaurants will dramatically alter these communities. They will remain rural and conservative. As James Ferguson of Fines Creek reminded a reporter, there has always been alcohol in rural mountains coves and communities.

And the stores and restaurants that do make the choice to sell spirits will level the field of competition with their intown cohorts. If you’re driving from Bethel to the Canton Ingles to get beer, may as well make one stop and get gas, bread and milk while there. That’s dollars right out of the hands of the rural storeowners.

County commissioner and Jonathan Creek gas station/convenience storeowner Michael Sorrells pointed in last week’s story, he’s picking beer cans and bottles out of his parking lot and off his property all the time. Again, as pointed out by Ferguson, people who want to consume alcohol are already drinking in rural Haywood County

23

In a time when some national media outlets do not have law enforcement or the public’s trust, we refuse to clump our local media into the umbrella term “news media.” they do not yet have for their story.

Time after time, they run toward the heat, keep an ear to the ground and keep their finger on the pulse of a situation until they get accurate answers that let people know what is going on in their community — even if it takes a while. They show respect for our deputies and the work it takes to investigate a situation and they show respect for the process of reporting as truthfully as possible.

In a time when some national media outlets do not have law enforcement or the public’s trust, we refuse to clump our local media into the umbrella term “news media.” We are blessed to have our own public information officer Lindsay Regner here at the Sheriff ’s Office who is a former reporter, and she reminds me occasionally that although every media outlet is different, no one knows what a good journalist goes through to put together a well-writ-

ten, facts-based news story, unless you’ve done it yourself professionally.

In our frequent exchanges with reporters, we continuously have to tell them there are some details we cannot release relative to investigations for a wide variety of reasons. They understand the stakes are high and let things be until we can give out more.

We also understand their stakes are high and respect their urgency to get this information as soon as possible.

There’s a lot on the line when you’re dealing with releasing information to the masses.

No matter how tense the climate may be between law enforcement and the national media, we continue to operate on a professional, facts-based playing field here in Haywood County and for that, not only is law enforcement appreciative, but our whole county is blessed because of our local media.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyous Merry Christmas.

opinion

All one can do is keep fighting the good fight know about you, but I need a quiet place about now.

I need to turn off the news and close my laptop and just Itakedon’t a break from all of the noise. I need to put my fury

Chris Cox

away, shut down all the lights except for those on the Christmas tree, and have Doris Day sing “Silver Bells” to me alone, slumping down in my easy chair with a hot mug of chamomile tea here as the whole miserable year collapses into darkness.

I need to shed the entire year of 2016 like old skin. I’d like to gather the withered and crackling husk in my hands, take it outside, and burn it in the driveway. The year is almost over, and what is done is done, Columnist whatever the reasons and at whatever cost. I want to emerge in the new year as a man who can move past it without giving up on the present and the future.

I will stipulate that I do not like what happened in 2016, and I have grave concerns about a country that can elect Donald Trump as its president. I believe he is the most skilled con man of our time, and that history will eventually bear that out. But that is not really the point of this column.

My point is not what the election says or doesn’t say about our country — it’s what my reaction to it might say about me that really bothers me. For over a month now, I have been resentful, fearful, confused, and especially angry, and I do not know what to do with my fury.

You see, I want to be a genuinely radical man, one who

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

A public servant retires

24

To the Editor: To my friends in Western North Carolina, I will be retiring on December 31.

As I begin a new stage in my life, I am honored to trace my ancestors back in Western North Carolina for over 250 years. My wonderful family heritage established in me the traditions of hard work, honesty, fairness, courtesy, and a strong Christian faith. All of these traits are exemplified in the people of Western North Carolina with whom I have shared the past half-century.

So I extend to each and every one of you a heartfelt thanks and appreciation, and I will never forget you. May God’s blessings be with you always.

Phil Haire Sylva

(Editor’s note: Phil Haire has served on many, many boards, commissions and volunteer organizations during his legal career in Western North Carolina, most prominently as a state representative in the North Carolina General Assembly and as a member the University of North Carolina System Board of Trustees.)

Please, just check the facts To the Editor: In the recent edition of The Smoky Mountain News, Carl Iobst’s letter seems to indicate that traditional media sources are responsible for their own demise, but the references he cites suggest just the opposite. Fake news is easy and profitable

can truly and deeply love his neighbor, a man who believes that justice and mercy and equality are still worth fighting for, and that the fight goes on, even when a round or two is lost, and that the fight is better fueled with love and faith than with anger and fear. I want to be that kind of person, but right now, I’m mostly an angry one, and I am wrestling with doubts about some of my neighbors.

I know that there are millions of people who are experiencing similar feelings, and millions who are afraid of what the future will hold for them now that we are going to have a president who has campaigned on a promise of kicking them out of the country, a president who has demonized entire races and faiths at his rallies, a president who has disparaged women and boasted of sexually assaulting them, a president who has openly mocked a disabled person.

What kind of ugliness does such behavior portend, and what kind of people does it embolden? These are horrifying questions, and even as I commit them to paper, I can feel that familiar stirring inside, the increase in pressure underneath my sternum, one leg pumping as I rock back and forth in my seat, leaning forward. Yes, I am getting angry again.

I do not have any good answers for those questions, but there is another, more urgent, question facing me at the moment, one that all of those who feel this way are facing, and that is — what are we supposed to do with this fury?

It is obviously not an easy question to answer, but surely some part of it is to find, unify, and strengthen our community, and then to work shoulder-to-shoulder with all of

— especially when it feeds stories to the ultra-right minded folks.

Iobst cited an NPR piece on one Jestin Coler and concludes that it, “ … doesn’t seem to have worked out very well for Jestin.” Had he actually read the NPR piece, Iobst would have learned that feeding raw meat to the right-wingers is highly profitable. Coler, according to the report, makes from $10,000 to $30,000 a month putting out fake right-wing news.

According to the NPR interview, Coler actually started out to debunk the right-wing echo chambers but found that it was profitable to do fake news that appeals to the ultra-right preconceived notions. For example, his organization put out a fake story that the FBI agent who leaked the story on Clinton e-mails was killed. In 10 days they got 1.6 million hits. He makes money on advertisers who get exposure on his sites. That accounts for the “huge” earnings.

Apparently liberals are less likely to swallow the fake news. According to Coler, “We’ve tried to do similar things to liberals. It just has never worked, it never takes off. You’ll get debunked within the first two comments and then the whole thing just kind of fizzles out.” Neurologists have found that conservatives operate more often on feelings than logic when compared to liberals.

That might account for the difference.

Contrary to what we might want to believe, misinformation that fits into what some people want to believe sells. The problem with fake news is that many people don’t bother to check out the facts if a story fits into what they want to believe.

Check the facts and sources. That also goes for some letters to the editor as well.

Norman Hoffmann Waynesville

those committed to fighting oppression, bigotry, and injustice at every level and in every instance where we find it. We cannot allow ourselves to become discouraged or derailed by those who sneer at compassion and empathy with their derisive comments about “social justice warriors” or “political correctness.” Standing up for just causes, and for people who cannot always stand up for themselves or by themselves is among the most human thing we can ever do. We must work toward reclaiming those phrases — which in the current political climate have become absurdly pejorative — and reassert that the qualities they embody — sensitivity, compassion, and empathy — are important and should be valued and cultivated, rather than mocked.

The other night, I was looking through a few photographs that my wife took this year of our family, a seasonal retrospective, I guess. In one shot, there we were sledding down a snowy hill on enormous inner tubes. In another, the kids were standing at attention in their snappy Easter outfits. In the third shot, we were at the beach, coated in wet sand, watching pelicans dive bombing the ocean under a brilliant and abiding July sky. And in the last one, we sported Halloween costumes, not yet too old for trick or treat.

I guess it was a pretty great year after all, give or take.

By all means, let us work to change the world. And when we can’t, let us make damn sure that it doesn’t change us.

Silver bells, silver bells, it’s Christmas time in the city.

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

Novel idea is surely just too far-fetched

I am writing a fictional spy novel. Here is the draft outline of it.

It begins in an expensive private military high school where the rich send their sons who have problems. A brash American, the son of one of the country’s richest men, is befriended there by two Russian boys who have a dark, secret mission. Their fathers are high-ranking KGB big wheels. The three boys hit it off and are inseparable at the posh school. They graduate and remain friends.

The American inherits his father’s empire and becomes one of the richest men in America. He stays in touch with his two Russian friends. Unbeknown to any but operatives in the American spy/special operations circles and the KGB in Russia, the three have a mission. They are to bring America and Russia together to dominate the world. Sort of a trio of Manchurian Candidates.

The brash young American runs for the presidency. He bankrolls his campaign out of his pocket and with secret funds from his two Russian friends. At this time the two Russian friends have become high-ranking members of the KGB as did their fathers.

The American is elected president with the clandestine help of rogues in the American intelligence community and they decimate the other candidate with outside, surreptitious help. The KGB hacks the American opponent’s emails, create fake news sites on the Internet, and spread rumors — getting their old classmate elected president, a man who never served in any political office. But, who twitters masterfully.

The new president surrounds himself with likeminded retired high-ranking military officers, other millionaires and billionaire oil men bent on world domination. The American public fails to see what is happening as they had grown disillusioned and angry with their elected leaders. The public believed it was time for a massive change in order to make America great again. The new president was seen as a savior to the working men and women of the nation because he is a businessman.

But I don’t believe anyone would believe such a bizarre tale as this — so I am gonna put it on a shelf and look at it again in a few years. Tom Clancy and Ken Follett will surely be relieved that I decided to scratch it. They can’t stand competition from a madcap novelist like me. Not to mention they could never have dreamed up such a plot. It is just too far-fetched.

Bob Scott Franklin

tasteTHEmountains Taste the Mountains is an ever-evolving paid section of places to dine in Western North Carolina. If you would like to be included in the listing please contact our advertising department at 828.452.4251 AMMONS DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT & DAIRY BAR 1451 Dellwwod Rd., Waynesville.

828.926.0734. Open 7 days a week 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Celebrating over 25 years. Enjoy world famous hot dogs as well as burgers, seafood, hushpuppies, hot wings and chicken.

Be sure to save room for dessert. The cobbler, pie and cake selections are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

APPLE ANDY'S RESTAURANT 3483 Soco Road, Maggie Valley located in Market Square. 828.944.0626. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Wednesday and Thursday.

Serving the freshest homemade sandwiches, wraps, and entrees such as country fried steak and grilled flounder. Full salad bar and made from scratch sides like potato salad, pinto beans and macaroni and cheese. www.appleandys.com BLOSSOM ON MAIN 128 N. Main Street, Waynesville.

828.454.5400. Open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through

Sunday. Mild, medium, to hot and spicy, our food is cooked to your like-able temperature.

Forget the myth that all Thai food is spicy.

Traditional Thai food is known to be quite healthy, making use of natural and fresh ingredients, paired with lots of spices, herbs, and vegetables. Vegetarians and health conscious individuals will not be disappointed as fresh vegetables and tofu are available in most of our menu as well as wines and saki chosen to compliment the unique flavors of Thai cuisine.

BLUE ROOSTER SOUTHERN GRILL 207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde, Lakeside Plaza at the old Wal-Mart. 828.456.1997. Open Monday through Friday. Friendly and fun family atmosphere. Local, handmade Southern cuisine. Fresh-cut salads; slow-simmered soups; flame grilled burgers and steaks, and homemade signature desserts. Blue-plates and local fresh vegetables daily. Brown bagging is permitted. Private parties, catering, and take-out available. Call-ahead seating available.

BOGART’S 303 S. Main St., Waynesville. 828.452.1313.

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Carry out available. Located in downtown Waynesville, Bogart’s has been long-time noted for great steaks, soups, and salads. Casual family atmosphere in a rustic old-time setting with a menu noted for its practical value. Live Bluegrass/String Band music every Thursday. Walking distance of Waynesville’s unique shops and seasonal fes-

tival activities and within one mile of Waynesville Country Club.

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE 454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch served 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Monday through Saturday. Dinner 5 to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Closed on Sunday. We specialize in hand-cut, all natural steaks from local farms, incredible burgers, and other classic american comfort foods that are made using only the finest local and sustainable ingredients available.

BREAKING BREAD CAFÉ 6147 Hwy 276 S. Bethel (at the Mobil Gas Station) 828.648.3838 Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chef owned and operated. Our salads are made in house using local seasonal vegetables. Fresh roasted ham, turkey and roast beef used in our hoagies. We hand make our own eggplant and chicken parmesan, pork meatballs and hamburgers. We use 1st quality fresh not preprepared products to make sure you get the best food for a reasonable price. We make vegetarian, gluten free and sugar free items.

Call or go to Facebook (Breaking Bread Café NC) to find out what our specials are.

BRYSON CITY CORK & BEAN A MOUNTAIN SOCIAL HOUSE 16 Everett St.,Bryson City. 828.488.1934.

Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday brunch 9 a.m. to 3p.m., Full Menu 3 to 9 p.m. Serving fresh and delicious weekday morning lite fare, lunch, dinner, and brunch. Freshly prepared

menu offerings range from house-made soups & salads, lite fare & tapas, crepes, specialty sandwiches and burgers. Be sure not to miss the bold flavors and creative combinations that make up the daily Chef Supper Specials starting at 5pm every day. Followed by a tempting selection of desserts prepared daily by our chefs and other local bakers. Enjoy craft beers on tap, as well as our full bar and eclectic wine list.

CATALOOCHEE RANCH 119 Ranch Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1401. Family-style breakfast seven days a week, from 8 am to 9:30 am – with eggs, bacon, sausage, grits and oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-you-can-eat. Lunch every day from 12:00 till 2 pm. Evening cookouts on the terrace on weekends and Wednesdays, featuring steaks, ribs, chicken, and pork chops, to name a few. Bountiful family-style dinners on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, with entrees that include prime rib, baked ham and herb-baked chicken, complemented by seasonal vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer a fine selection of wine and beer. The evening social hour starts at 6 pm, and dinner is served starting at 7 pm. So join us for mile-high mountaintop dining with a spectacular view.

Please call for reservations.

CHEF’S TABLE 30 Church St., Waynesville. 828.452.6210.

From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday dinner starting at 5 p.m. “Best of” Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator

December 14-20, 2016

Christmas Day Buffet

APPÉTIT Y’AL N L BO

207 Paragon Parkway, Clyde

828-456-1997 blueroostersoutherngrill.com Monday-Friday Open at 11am

Real Local Families, Real Local Farms, Real Local Food

Sunday, December 25 • 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Adults $29.95* • Young at Heart (70+) $21.95* Children 12 & Under $14.95* • Age 5 & Under Free No Further Discounts on Young-at-Heart Pricing. 18% Service Charge Added to Parties of 6 or More.

*

Reservations Recommended — 828.456.3551

Cataloochee Ranch 119 Ranch Drive, Maggie Valley, NC 28751 | CataloocheeRanch.com | (828)926-1401

Smoky Mountain News

We’ll feed your spirit, too.

176 COUNTRY CLUB DR. WAYNESVILLE, NC

TheWaynesvilleInn.com 25

Ring In 2017

tasteTHEmountains

AT

The Rendezvous RESTAURANT & LOUNGE At the Maggie Valley Inn

Hors d’Oeuvres Buffet 9 p.m.–Midnight Midnight Champagne Toast Dancing and Party Favors Midnight Breakfast Buffet

Stone Crazy $139 PER COUPLE INCLUDES ROOM Single Rates Available Reservations Recommended

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

70 Soco Road, Maggie Valley • 828.926.0201

10:00am - 3:00pm

Featuring: Black Eyed Peas, Greens, Pork, Roast Beef Carving Station, Breakfast Items, Omelette Station, Salad Bar & Much More

$12.95 Per Person Drink, Tip, Tax Not Included

Reservations Recommended

70 Soco Road, Maggie Valley • 828.926.0201 26

gorgonzola cheese and salads. All ABC permits and open year-round. Children always welcome. Take-out menu. Excellent service and hospitality. Reservations appreciated.

CHURCH STREET DEPOT 34 Church Street, downtown Waynesville.

828.246.6505. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Mouthwatering all beef burgers and dogs, hand-dipped, hand-spun real ice cream shakes and floats, fresh hand-cut fries. Locally sourced beef. Indoor and outdoor dining. facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot, twitter.com/ChurchStDepot.

JOEY'S PANCAKE HOUSE 4309 Soco Rd Maggie Valley.

828.926.0212. Winter hours: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., closed Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Joey’s is a family style restaurant that has been serving breakfast to the locals and visitors of Western North Carolina since 1966. Featuring a large variety of tempting pancakes, golden waffles, country style cured ham and seasonal specials spiked with flavor, Joey's is sure to please all appetites. Join us for what has become a tradition in these parts, breakfast at Joey’s.

CITY LIGHTS CAFE Spring Street in downtown Sylva.

828.587.2233. Open Monday-Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tasty, healthy and quick. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, espresso, beer and wine.

Come taste the savory and sweet crepes, grilled paninis, fresh, organic salads, soups and more. Outside patio seating. Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly. Live music and lots of events.

Check the web calendar at citylightscafe.com.

MUSIC BY

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH

Magazine. Set in a distinguished atmosphere with an exceptional menu. Extensive selection of wine and beer. Reservations honored.

325-7

THE CLASSIC WINESELLER 20 Church Street, Waynesville.

828.452.6000. Underground retail wine and craft beer shop, restaurant, and intimate live music venue. Kitchen opens at 4 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday serving freshly prepared small plates, tapas, charcuterie, desserts. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday night at 7pm. www.classicwineseller.com. Also on facebook and twitter.

COUNTRY VITTLES: FAMILY STYLE RESTAURANT 3589 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley.

828.926.1820 Winter hours: Wednesday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family Style at Country Vittles is not a buffet.

Instead our waitresses will bring your food piping hot from the kitchen right to your table and as many refills as you want. So if you have a big appetite, but sure to ask your waitress about our family style service.

FRANKIE’S ITALIAN TRATTORIA 1037 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley.

828.926.6216 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday-Saturday. Father and son team Frank and Louis Perrone cook up dinners steeped in Italian tradition. With recipies passed down from generations gone by, the Perrones have brought a bit of Italy to Maggie Valley. frankiestrattoria.com FROGS LEAP PUBLIC HOUSE 44 Church St., Downtown Waynesville 828.456.1930 Serving lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; Dinner 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. 5 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. Frogs Leap is a farm to table restaurant focused on local, sustainable, natural and organic products prepared in modern regional dishes. Seasonal menu focuses on Southern comfort foods with upscale flavors. www.frogsleappublichouse.com.

J. ARTHUR’S RESTAURANT AT MAGGIE VALLEY U.S. 19 in Maggie Valley. 828.926.1817.

Open nightly for dinner at 4 p.m.; Friday through Sunday 12 to 4 p.m. for lunch.

Daily luncheon special at $6.99. Worldfamous prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood,

JUKEBOX JUNCTION U.S. 276 and N.C. 110 intersection, Bethel.

828.648.4193. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch, nd dinner.

The restaurant has a 1950s & 60s theme decorated with memorabilia from that era.

MAD BATTER FOOD & FILM 617 W. Main Street Downtown Sylva.

828.586.3555. Open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Handtossed pizza, steak sandwiches, wraps, salads and desserts. All made from scratch.

Beer and wine. Free movies with showtimes at 6:30 and 9 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. Visit madbatterfoodandfilm.com for this week’s shows.

MAGGIE VALLEY CLUB 1819 Country Club Dr., Maggie Valley.

828.926.1616. maggievalleyclub.com/dine.

Open seasonally for lunch and dinner. Fine and casual fireside dining in welcoming atmosphere. Full bar. Reservations accepted.

MOUNTAIN PERKS ESPRESSO BAR & CAFÉ 9 Depot St., Bryson City. 828.488.9561.

Open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. With music at the Depot. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Life is too short for bad coffee. We feature wonderful breakfast and lunch selections.

Bagels, wraps, soups, sandwiches, salads and quiche with a variety of specialty coffees, teas and smoothies. Various desserts.

NEWFOUND LODGE RESTAURANT 1303 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee (Located on 441 North at entrance to GSMNP).

828.497.4590. Open 7 a.m. daily.

Established in 1946 and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Family style dining for adults and children.

PAPERTOWN GRILL 153 Main St., Canton. 828.648.1455 Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Serving the local community with great, scratch-made country cooking. Breakfast is served all day. Daily specials including Monday meatloaf, chicken and dumplings on Thursdays and Friday fish.

PASQUALE’S 1863 South Main Street, Waynesville. Off exit 98, 828.454.5002. Open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Sunday.

Classic Italian dishes, exceptional steaks and seafood (available in full and lighter sizes), thin crust pizza, homemade soups,

tasteTHEmountains salads hand tossed at your table. Fine wine and beer selection. Casual atmosphere, dine indoors, outside on the patio or at the bar.

Reservations appreciated.

have fresh salads, seasonal vegetables and scrumptious deserts. Extensive selection of local craft beers and a full bar. Catering special events is one of our specialties.

PATIO BISTRO 30 Church Street, Waynesville.

828.454.0070. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Breakfast bagels and sandwiches, gourmet coffee, deli sandwiches for lunch with homemade soups, quiches, and desserts. Wide selection of wine and beer.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN SUB SHOP 29 Miller Street Waynesville 828.456.3400.

Open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. A Waynesville tradition, the Smoky Mountain Sub Shop has been serving great food for over 20 years. Come in and enjoy the relaxed, casual atmosphere. Sub breads are baked fresh every morning in Waynesville.

Using only the freshest ingredients in homemade soups, salads and sandwiches. Come in and see for yourself why Smoky Mountain Sub Shop was voted # 1 in Haywood County.

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR Maggie Valley Inn and Conference Center 70 Soco Road, Maggie Valley 828.926.0201 Home of the Maggie Valley Pizzeria. We deliver after 4 p.m. daily to all of Maggie Valley, J-Creek area, and Lake Junaluska.

Monday through Wednesday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. country buffet and salad bar from 5 to 9 p.m. $11.95 with Steve Whiddon on piano.

Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 11:30 to 8 p.m. 11:30 to 3 p.m. family style, fried chicken, ham, fried fish, salad bar, along with all the fixings, $11.95.

Check out our events and menu at rendezvousmaggievalley.com SAGEBRUSH STEAKHOUSE 1941 Champion Drive, Canton 828.646.3750 895 Russ Ave., Waynesville 828.452.5822. Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Carry out available.

Sagebrush features hand carved steaks, chicken and award winning BBQ ribs. We

SPEEDY’S PIZZA 285 Main Street, Sylva. 828.586.3800.

Open seven days a week. Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 3 p.m.-11 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Family-owned for 30 years. Serving hand-tossed pizza made to order, pasta, subs, gourmet salads, calzones and seafood. Also serving excellent prime rib on Thursdays. Dine in or take out available.

Located across from the Fire Station.

TAP ROOM BAR & GRILL 176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville.

828.456.3551. Open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tucked away inside Waynesville Inn, the Tap Room Bar & Grill has an approachable menu designed around locally sourced, sustainable,

farm-to-table ingredients. Full bar and wine cellar. www.thewaynesvilleinn.com.

TRAILHEAD CAFE & BAKERY 18 N Main Street, Waynesville.

828.452.3881 Open 7 days a week MondaySaturday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will find a delicious selection of pastries & donuts, breakfast & lunch along with a fresh coffee & barista selection. Happy Trails!

VITO’S PIZZA 607 Highlands Rd., Franklin.

828.369.9890. Established here in in 1998. Come to Franklin and enjoy our laid back place, a place you can sit back, relax and enjoy our 62” HDTV. Our Pizza dough, sauce, meatballs, and sausage are all made from scratch by Vito. The recipes have been in the family for 50 years (don't ask for the recipes cuz’ you won't get it!)

WAYNESVILLE PIZZA COMPANY 32 Felmet Street, Waynesville.

828.246.0927. Open Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 10 p.m.; Sunday noon to 9 p.m.; closed Tuesdays. Opened in May 2016, The Waynesville Pizza Company has earned a reputation for having the best hand-tossed pizza in the area. Featuring a custom bar with more than 20 beers and a rustic, family friendly dining room. Menu includes salads, burgers, wraps, hot and cold sandwiches, gourmet pizza, homemade desserts, and a loaded salad bar. The Cuban sandwich is considered by most to be the best in town.

Real New Yorkers.

Real Italians. Real Pizza.

Dine-In ~ Take Out ~ Delivery

NOW OPEN

Mon.-Sat. 11 am to 9 pm · Closed Sundays

243 Paragon Parkway | Clyde

828-476-5058

Ask us about our 10% Discount for Waynesville Locals

Christmas cookies, pastries & desserts Breakfast - Lunch - Coffee - Donuts & More Monday - Saturday 7-4 | Sunday 9-3 18 N Main St. in the heart of Waynesville

828-452-3881

MEDITERRANEAN

ITALIAN CUISINE

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT in or near Waynesville.

Great food, great service & you can never go wrong with “Deb’s Pick”!

1863 S. Main Street • Waynesville 828.454.5002 Hwy. 19/23 Exit 98 LUNCH & DINNER TUES. - SUN.

www.pasqualesnc.com

MON.-SAT. 11 A.M.-8 P.M.

34 CHURCH ST. WAYNESVILLE 828.246.6505 Mtwitter.com/ChurchStDepot C facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot

Saturday 12 p.m.-10 p.m.

Closed Tues.

Sun. 12-9 p.m.

CLOSED CHRISTMAS EVE AND CHRISTMAS DAY 32 Felmet Street (828) 246-0927

WaynesvilleCatering.com

828-452-7837

Call us for catering to supplement your holiday parties.

We can provide appetizers, desserts or main dishes.

828.587.2233 3 E JACKSON ST. • SYLVA, NC

www.CityLightsCafe.com

For every $25 you buy, you get $5 ——————————————————————

Book Your Holiday Parties Now! Seating for up to 80

Holiday Meals Made Simple: Regular (feeds 6-8) $49.99 Large (feeds 15-18) $99.99 Call Today To Place Your Holiday Orders!

Smoky Mountain News

Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Let us Cater Your Holiday Parties, Large or Small

Holiday Gift Cards

December 14-20, 2016

WAYNESVILLE’S BEST BURGERS

895 Russ Ave. • Waynesville

828-452-5822

Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–10 p.m Friday & Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

27

28

A&E

Smoky Mountain News

Christmas classic comes to life

The Smoky Mountain Community Theatre in Bryson City is currently performing the “live radio play” interpretation of the classic story “It’s A Wonderful Life.” But, the catch is that this production portrays a 1946 radio broadcast of the tale. Garret K. Woodward photo

‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ radio play in Bryson City

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER frigid mountain wind howled through Bryson City last Friday evening as a handful of folks hurried into the Smoky Mountain Community Theatre. Finding a seat in the old building, one was immediately greeted by numerous actors in full 1940s attire.

“Welcome to the show,” they smiled.

A

The overhead lights dimmed. An older gentleman approached one of the three stage microphones, greeting the audience “out there in radio land” with post-World War II advertisements and the station’s call letters — WBFZ. And so kicked off the “live radio play” of the classic “It’s A Wonderful Life.”

The year is 1946. The date? Christmas Eve. “We’re trying to recreate the feeling of being in a studio as an audience at a live radio broadcast in the 1940s,” said Lucretia Bell, actor and director of the production. “The show itself is presented as ‘a show within a show,’ where the actors are playing the performers from that 1946 broadcast who performed the beloved story.”

Based on the classic 1946 film of the same name, the story

Want to go?

There will be a live radio play production of the classic “It’s A Wonderful Life” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16-17, and at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Smoky Mountain Community Theatre in Bryson City.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 students (ages 6-18) and free for children ages 5 and under. www.smctheatre.com.

was adapted into a “live radio play” by Joe Landry in recent years, premiering onstage in 1996.

“We hope to transport the audience to the world of Bedford Falls, which is the plot of the story, and also the world of the Christmas season in 1946,” Bell said. “Back in the day, people would gather around the radio and listen to plays, and also watch the radio broadcasts live. And what we’re trying to do is bring back that medium.”

The 90-minute performance features seven stage actors and three noise actors. With the entire show focused on the ear rather than the eye, all the actors had to adjust their stage knowledge into a whole new realm of thought and interaction.

“This style of play really lets the actors explore their limits and also the opportunities of what they can achieve onstage when you’re focused on audio and not visual,” Bell said. “Audio also lets you explore a broader range of settings and characters, seeing as you don’t have to worry about constant set and costume changes.”

Sitting in the dark theater, you feel yourself drifting into some alternate universe, where the show is unlike anything else you may experience in our modern world (except perhaps NPR’s “A Prairie Home Companion”). It’s wild to see just what household items the noise actors use to mimic whatever the script reads: an iron brush and washboard to represent a moving train, a hair comb symbolizing crickets and frogs, etc.

The years on the calendar flip backward as the performance unfolds. You start to immerse yourself into the past, one of innocence and community found in this iconic tale of George Bailey and his quest for salvation.

“It’s really incredible to have the ability to bring these settings and this story to life,” Bell said.

Under the Bright Lights: Smoky Mountain Community Theatre

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER It’s the heartbeat of a town.

Coming into its 37th year, the Smoky Mountain Community Theatre has become a beacon of culture, education and creativity within Bryson City.

“What excites me is that here is this longestablished theater, within its own facility, in a small mountain town that supports it,” said Lucretia Bell, a SMCT actor and director.

“One thing that has been happening a lot lately is this recent changeover, when we have younger people coming in, learning from the older generations, and also bringing their new ideas to the table.”

Situated in the old Gem Theatre building in downtown Bryson City, the SMCT held its first performance at the Gem in 1989 (“A Gift of Christmas”) after years of hitting the stage at the Swain County High School. Hosting several plays and stage productions through-

out the year, the SMCT brings in attendees from near and far.

“Bryson City is a hub for tourism in Western North Carolina,” Bell said. “And what we’re seeing is a lot of out-of-town folks coming in alongside local residents to enjoy what we’re putting onstage.”

Bell noted the theater company’s mission as one that aims to ensure the facility be used as a space to create and learn.

“With these older and younger generations interacting, we’re seeing this meeting of the minds and working together that keeps making this organization a vital asset to the community,” she said. “It’s not about being a resident here that ‘just lives here,’ but coming together as a town and creating that sense of community, and the theater provides that — there’s nothing like the magic of theater, where it’s about all those walks of life behind the scenes, on the stage, and in the audience.”

This must be the place

St.AndrewS Square

Call to Place Your Order | 828-550-9221 | We Ship

CHRISTMAS BOXES

144 Industrial Park Dr. Unit D1, Waynesville, NC

www.SaintAndrewsSquare.biz

Bookstore The City Lights Bookstore 18th Annual Giving Tree is underway

Give the gift of a good read!

3 EAST JACKSON STREET • SYLVA

828/586-9499 • citylightsnc.com

Still not sure what to get your sweetheart for Christmas?

You’re in luck if she has a wish list with us.

Are you one of the lucky ones?

Smoky Mountain News

HOT PICKS 1 2 3 4 5

from

December 14-20, 2016

Christmas Jam, now more than ever

Scottish Shortbread

arts & entertainment

by thousands of music freaks and musicians, I found myself in awe of those voices and faces on both sides of the microphone.

With all of the noise on the television and in the news, we sometimes lose sight of just how much beauty and love is actually

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD around us at all times.

It was the Bob Weir (Grateful Dead) and Alison Krauss duet of “Peggy O” alone onstage, his acoustic guitar and her fiddle echoing into the universe. It was Weir and bassist George Porter Jr. bouncing riffs off each other, all while saxophone wizard Branford Marsalis and guitarist Eric Krasno (Soulive) orbited around the pair. It was the 40th anniversary tribute to The Band’s “The Last Waltz,” a collage of classic 1960s/1970s rock songs that shine a light on trials and tribulations of blue-collar America, a sentiment that still finds itself at a crossroads in the 21st century.

With its 30th birthday on the horizon, Haynes and Co. have used the annual event to raise millions of dollars and build dozens of homes for the Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity. It may seemingly be a drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things, but remember, if everyone put in their drop we’d have enough to go around. And Haynes is a leader in that charge for making sure a helpful and welcoming hand is always extended to fellow man.

What Christmas Jam represents is that last hurrah of the year, the perfect and ideal bow tied at the end of the calendar. And yet, this year’s showcase seemed more meaningBluegrass/country legend Alison Krauss and Bob Weir (of the Grateful Dead) doing a rendition ful that previous ones. This isn’t to knock of “Peggy O” together at the Christmas Jam in Asheville on Dec. 10. Garret K. Woodward photo past lineups. But, what one felt in that arena last weekend was a sense that we’re at the start of a long journey into the unknown. The difference in being there, say compared to just having these thoughts alone in your house, is There will be a live radio play production of the that though you feel the road will “You don’t know me but I’m your brother/I classic “It’s A Wonderful Life” at 7:30 p.m. be hard and perhaps treacherous, was raised here in this living hell/You don’t Dec. 16-17, and at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at the there are millions and millions of know my kind in your world/Fairly soon the Smoky Mountain Community Theatre in folks standing alongside you, time will tell/You, telling me the things you’re Bryson City. willing to push ahead into the gonna do for me/I ain’t blind and I don’t like depths, to someday shift the penwhat I think I see/Takin’ it to the streets…”

The Cut Cocktail Lounge (Sylva) will host Scott dulum of humanity back in the Low (Americana/country) 7 p.m. Saturday, right direction.

When legendary singer Michael Dec. 17.

This isn’t over-exaggeration McDonald sang those words to his 1976 The Blue Ridge Big Band will perform at 3 or over-indulgence of adult bevDoobie Brothers hit “Takin’ It to the Streets” p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, at The Strand at 38 erages in the presence of your in Asheville last Saturday night during Main in Waynesville. favorite musicians. This is real Christmas Jam, a sense of not only urgency, but also unity washed over the enormous “The Revival of the Hippie Counterculture” talk life emotion, planted and cultivated by the sounds of change, crowd filling the U.S. Cellular Center. and discussion with Michael Lenz will be held camaraderie and collaboration Celebrating its 28th year, the Christmas at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Macon only found in the confines of live Jam has become more than a hometown County Public Library in Franklin. performance. homecoming and Asheville Area Habitat The Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will Normally, I’d walk away from for Humanity fundraiser for guitar virtuhost Metal Night and a Toys for Tots drive at Christmas Jam with a sentimenoso Warren Haynes, it has also become a 9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16. tal kick in my step at the culmitouchstone for our culture, and a clean nation of another year on this slate of intent and purpose as another year Before he jumped into his set, McDonald rock hurdling through space. This time comes to end, another ready and roaring took a moment to express his sentiments to around, however, I found myself thinking to begin. the sold-out arena. He spoke of how we as a about how the event honed in on what it Well, 2016 was quite the year, eh? Just people must never stop the fight for equality means to be human and all those thousands when you think things in our country and — the one true freedom. His words ricoof folks in attendance that will be sent back our world can’t get any wackier or darker, cheted around the space, giving a muchinto the world — as a productive and posithey somehow do. And as the hearts and needed sense that we aren’t alone hoping tive force — when the last note is plucked, minds of Southern Appalachia and beyond and working towards a better tomorrow, as the last light turned off. Well, at least until entered the Christmas Jam, thoughts of this next December. topsy-turvy year rang loudly in those souls in the audience erupted into a raucous cheer.

Standing in the photo pit, surrounded Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all. search of melodic remedies.

80 N. Main Street Waynesville North Carolina

828.456.2260 | www.thejwbench.com

29

On the beat arts & entertainment

Junior Appalachian Musicians registration

BIG BAND MUSIC IN WAYNESVILLE The Blue Ridge Big Band will perform at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville. Tickets are $18. 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com. Wayne Ebinger photo

SCOTT LOW AT THE CUT

December 14-20, 2016

Outlaw Americana singersongwriter Scott Low will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at The Cut Cocktail Lounge in Sylva.

$95.00. The fee includes instruction by JAM faculty in small and large groups, “JAMily” meeting and practice time, and special appearances by Jackson County Visiting Artists sharing music, dance, and storytelling.

JAM is sponsored by the Jackson County Arts Council and supported by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources.

The deadline for student registration is Dec. 20. Contact Mairi Padgett (JAM parent) to enroll for the Spring Semester: 828.506.8252 or mairi.padgett@gmail.com.

314-22

NEW SHIPMENT JUST IN! SOCKS Edgy quotes combined with elegant imagery for those daring, funky ladies and guys with a good sense of humor.

Smoky Mountain News

Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) is now accepting applications for the spring semester. Students will learn to play and sing Appalachian mountain music, gain confidence, and give back to the community with live performances throughout the year.

JAM is open to all Jackson County students in grades 3-12, with professional instruction in guitar, fiddle, banjo, mandolin and auto harp. Class will meet from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. on Tuesday afternoons in the music room in the north hall of Cullowhee Valley School. Class dates are Jan. 10 to April 25 for

A G U A R A N T E E D G R E AT N I G H T O U T

A I R S U P P LY

YES: THE ALBUM SERIES

RODN E Y CAR R I NGTON

SPEND THE NIGHT WITH ALICE COOPER

J A N U A R Y 13

MARCH 25 O N S A L E F R I D AY AT 10 A M

FEBRUARY 3

APRIL 29 O N S A L E F R I D AY AT 10 A M

Visit ticketmaster.com or call 1-800-745-3000 to purchase tickets.

Caesars.com

Affairs of the Heart

————————————————————————————— 120 N. Main St. • Waynesville, NC • 828.452.0526

30

Show(s) subject to change or cancellation. Must be 21 years of age or older to enter casino floor and to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. ©2017, Caesars License Company, LLC.

On the beat

serving size : ab out 50 p ag es

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host James Hammel (pop/jazz) Dec. 16 and Joe Cruz (piano/pop) Dec. 17 and 23. All events begin at 7 p.m. 828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

• The Cut Cocktail Lounge (Sylva) will host Scott Low (Americana/country) 7 p.m. Dec. 17, Cut Christmas Party w/Tyler Kittle (jazz) and Bird in Hand (Americana) 4 p.m. Dec. 18, “Live Soundtrack to Silent Movies” ham dinner Dec. 24. 828.631.4795.

• Derailed Bar & Lounge (Bryson City) will have music at 7 p.m. on Saturdays.

828.488.8898.

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will have an Open Mic night Dec. 14 and 21, a jazz night with the Kittle/Collings Duo Dec. 15 and 22, and Shotgun Gypsies Dec. 17. All events are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.innovation-brewing.com.

• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host a community music jam from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15. Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer, anything unplugged, are invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen. Free. 828.488.3030.

Am ount per Serving Calories 0 % Daily Value * Tot al Fat 0g

0%

Reg ional New s

100%

Op inion

100%

Outd oors

100%

Art s

100%

Entert ainm ent

100%

Classified s

100%

Call today to learn more about your specific coverage

arts & entertainment

We are proud to accept insurance plans from these local employers:

Nutrition Facts

828.456.3211 smokymtneye.com

* Percent Weekly values b ased on Hayw ood, Jackson, M acon, Sw ain and Buncom b e d iet s.

Make this Christmas the stuff of legends.

ALSO:

December 14-20, 2016

• No Name Sports Pub (Sylva) will host Alex Culbreth (country/blues) Dec. 16, John The Revelator & Scott Low (Americana/rock) Dec. 17 and Jacob Green (soul/folk) Dec. 23. All shows are free and begin at 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.nonamesportspub.com.

• Oconaluftee Visitors Center (Cherokee) will have an old-time music jam from 1 to 3 p.m.

Dec. 17. All skill levels welcomed.

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host “Hoppy Hour” and an open mic with Jimandi at 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays, “Funky Friday” with Bud Davis at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Isaish Breedlove (Americana) at 7 p.m. on Saturdays. 828.482.9794 or www.satulahmountainbrewing.com.

Stroll under the lights through festive, interactive displays featuring ancient Cherokee Christmas legends.

Or come for our 40-ft. Christmas tree, a visit with Santa, our Christmas Carnival and Christmas Parade, and a spin on our synthetic ice rink. There’s plenty of inexpensive entertainment (cash only), and admission is free. Grab your little elves and join us at 545 Tsali Blvd., in Cherokee, NC.

• The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host a weekly Appalachian music night from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays with Nitrograss.

828.526.8364 or www.theuglydogpub.com.

• The Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host Metal Night and a Toys for Tots drive on Dec. 16 and Andrew Rickman (acoustic/rock) Dec. 23. All shows begin at 9:30 p.m. 828.456.4750.

Smoky Mountain News

• The Strand at 38 Main (Waynesville) will host an “Open Mic” night from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays. All are welcome. 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com.

December 2–31, Fridays and Saturdays, from 5–10 p.m. (closed Dec. 23–24)

VisitCherokeeNC.com | 828.359.6490 31

arts & entertainment

On the street

SYLVA GETS THE FUNK Popular funk/soul act Darren & The Buttered Toast will perform a special New Year’s Eve showcase at 10 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 31, at No Name Sports Pub in Sylva. Admission is $3 at the door. www.nonamesportspub.com.

Celebrate a Smoky Mountain Christmas

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

An old-time Christmas celebration will be held Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Festivities will kick off at 10 a.m., when park staff and volunteers will offer hands-on crafts and activities through noon, giving children and adults alike the chance to experience some of the traditions surrounding an

32

Appalachian Christmas. Then, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., an acoustic jam session will commence, with musicians and visitors coming together to play and sing traditional Christmas carols.

All this will take place in a decked-out visitor center featuring an exhibit on Christmas in the mountains, hot apple cider, cookies and a crackling fireplace.

Free through support by the Great Smoky Mountains Association. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is located on U.S. 441, two miles north of Cherokee.

828.497.1904.

Want to taste the local flavors?

The “Taste of Local” will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at Ingles Markets in Waynesville.

Support local food entrepreneurs as you meet more than 20 local suppliers and sample their products that are sold at Ingles. Some of the participants include: Ally’s Bars (Mills River), Annie’s Breads (Asheville), Boojum Brewing (Waynesville), City Bakery (Asheville), Hickory Nut Gap Meats (Fairview), Mimi’s Mountain Mixes (Hendersonville), Roots Hummus (Asheville), Sunburst Trout (Waynesville), Tribal Grounds Coffee (Waynesville).

On the street

ALSO:

• A showcase on the life and times of Horace Kephart will be on display through March 31 in the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University. In 1904, Kephart was 42year-old librarian when he came to Western North Carolina looking for a fresh start in the Southern Appalachian wilderness. Over the next 27 years, his numerous articles and books captured a disappearing culture, provided practical advice for generations of outdoor enthusiasts, and spearheaded the movement to establish the Great Smoky

Mountains National Park. 828.227.7129.

• A wine tasting will be held from 2 to 5 p.m.

Dec. 17 and 24 at Papou’s Wine Shop in Sylva. $5 per person. www.papouswineshop.com or 828.586.6300.

• A free wine tasting will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 17 and 24 at Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville. www.waynesvillewine.com or 828.452.0120.

arts & entertainment

• The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre and Empire Distributing will host an evening of fine dining and wine at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, at Harmons Den Bistro located in the new Daniel & Belle Fangmeyer Theater at HART in Waynesville. Only 20 spots available for this four-course and wine event. Cost is $75 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. To RSVP, call the box office at 828.456.6322.

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host a wine tasting on Wednesdays and a craft beer tasting on Thursdays. Both events run from 4 to 8 p.m. There will also be tapas from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. www.classicwineseller.com.

• Free cooking demonstrations will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturdays at Country Traditions in Dillsboro. Watch the demonstrations, eat samples and taste house wines for $3 a glass. All recipes posted online. www.countrytraditionsnc.com.

On the stage ‘War Horse’ screening in Highlands December 14-20, 2016 Smoky Mountain News

The Highlands Performing Arts Center will present two screenings of the National Theatre of London’s encore performance of “War Horse” at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17.

Based on the novel

by Michael Morpurgo, “War Horse” is the powerful story of a young boy called Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, who has been requisitioned to fight for the British in World War I. Caught in enemy crossfire, Joey ends up serving on both sides during the war before landing in No Man’s Land, while Albert, not old enough to enlist, embarks on a treacherous mission to find his horse and bring him home.

A remarkable tale of courage, loyalty and friendship, War Horse features groundbreaking puppetry work by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, which brings breathing and galloping horses to life on stage.

Tickets are available online at www.highlandspac.org at the door or by calling 828.526.9047.

33

arts & entertainment

On the wall

Jackson County ‘Artist Talk’ The “Artist Talk” with painter Susan Lingg will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19, at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

Sponsored by the Jackson County Arts Council, Lingg will be demonstrating her technique painting a winter scene. She has a unique and fresh approach to her painting that highlights

her skill in expressing color and light.

Lingg has been a studio artist for over 20 years. She teaches as well helping participants discover the joy of creative expression.

She has artwork in several local galleries and her work is part of various collections throughout the southeast and beyond.

The free “Artist Talk” events are sponsored monthly by the Jackson County Arts Council as an effort to celebrate the many artists and art forms in Jackson County.

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

‘Small, Small Work’ The Haywood County Arts Council’s (HCAC) latest exhibit, “It’s a Small, Small Work,” will run through Dec. 31 at its Gallery & Gifts showcase room in downtown Waynesville.

The 2016 exhibit features 60 artists and almost 200 individual works of art for sale, which provides a unique opportunity for budding artists to exhibit their work alongside seasoned professionals.

The small work show was launched in 2008 in response to a declining economy and to demonstrate that original artwork can be affordable. Most businesses, homes and

Painter Jo Ridge Kelley will be one of the artists featured at HCAC. apartments can accommodate smaller works of art — and the show promotes buying local and regional work to help support artists in Western North Carolina. www.haywoodarts.org.

Jewelry case by Fatie Atkinson.

HCAC receives gifts In 2016, the Haywood County Arts Council’s (HCAC) Gallery Committee set out to improve its Gallery & Gifts retail space in Waynesville to include more retail artists throughout the year. Several local artists provided gifts to the HCAC, improving the capacity and aesthetic quality of the space.

Last month, Caryl Brt, local wood artist and HCAC Board member, installed a solid wood sign outside HCAC Gallery & Gifts.

This new addition updates the name from Gallery 86 to HCAC Gallery & Gifts, matching the awning purchased in 2014. She and Chris Coulter also partnered to build wooden shelving to create additional space for artwork. The shelving can be viewed at the

front of the gallery. Coulter also donated materials and time to install new glass shelves at the back of the gallery, creating even more space for shows or retail. More information about Brt can be found at www.carylbrt.com.

Most recently, artists and arts patrons, John and Suzanne Gernandt, donated a jewelry case to the gallery space. The case, built by another local artist, Fatie Atkinson, is made of Mahogany and fiddle back chestnut. This piece joins the desk already housed in the gallery, created by John and donated by the Gernandts. More of Atkinson’s work can be viewed at www.dropr.com/portfolio109456, and work from the Gernandts can be viewed at www.johngfurniture.com and www.suzannetextiles.com. www.haywoodarts.org.

Your town is my town.

Now proudly serving Waynesville.

I live and work here just like you. So I’m right around the corner when you need me. I can help protect the things you own and the people you love.

Call or stop by today for a free quote.

Georgi Insurance Group 828-452-2815

© 2014 Allstate Insurance Co.

34

189425

283 N. Haywood St. Waynesville, NC 28786 olgageorgi2@allstate.com

On the wall

Diane E. Sherrill, Attorney

Is a Will Enough?

FREE LUNCHEON SEMINAR

Jan. 18 & Feb. 15

arts & entertainment

Haywood, Jackson Arts grant recipients

11:30 AM

Best Western River Escape Inn Dillsboro • Reservation Suggested

828.586.4051

nctrustlawyer.com

28 Maple St. • Sylva t.e. siewert.

• Laurey-Faye Dean will be the featured artist with a live demonstration and discussion at “The Potter’s Wheel” series from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 24 at The Wild Fern in Bryson City.

noon of creativity and camaraderie. Supplies are provided, or bring your own. Beginners are welcome as well as those who already enjoy this new trend. kmoe@fontanalib.org or 828.524.3600.

• The exhibition “Contemporary Clay: A Survey on Contemporary American Ceramics” will run until Dec. 16 in the Fine Art Museum at Western Carolina University. The exhibit will explore traditional and non-traditional functional objects, mixed media installations and the continuing evolution of ceramics and pottery. www.wcu.edu.

ALSO:

• The Adult Coloring Group will meet at 2 p.m. on Fridays in the Living Room of the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. An after-

• Cullowhee watercolorist Craig Forrest will showcase a 15-piece collection of new works throughout the month of December at the It’s

By Nature gallery in downtown Sylva.

828.631.3020 or www.itsbynature.com/upcomingevents.

• “Stitch,” the community gathering of those interested in crochet, knit and needlepoint, meet at 2:30 p.m. every first Sunday of the month at the Canton Public Library. All ages and skill levels welcome. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

facebook.com/smnews

Smoky Mountain News

• Amy Putansu — Materials for Specialized Weaving, Haywood County • t.e. siewert — Encaustic Printmaking Equipment, Haywood County • Maryellen Tully — Fabric Covers for Silk Paintings, Macon County • Anna Young — Jewelry-making Tools/Equipment, Haywood County The Regional Artist Project Grant program provides the opportunity for regional consortia of local arts councils to award project grants to artists in their regions. These grants support professional artists in any discipline and at any stage in their careers to pursue projects that further their professional development.

Applications for the 2017-18 grant season will be made available in late summer or early fall of 2017. Announcements will be made in the HCAC newsletter and on www.haywoodarts.org/grants.

December 14-20, 2016

The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) and Jackson County Arts Council (JCAC), co-administrating organizations of this year’s program, are pleased to announce the 2016-17 grantees for Regional Artist Project Grant (RAPG), a program of the North Carolina Arts Council (NCAC).

These awards are provided to individual artists with funds from Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson and Macon Counties and matching funds from the North Carolina Arts Council: • Casey Lance Brown — Memoirs of a Screen Photography Project, Haywood County • Kenneth Czarnomski — Materials for Rendering Artistic Regional Maps, Haywood County • Amanda Janes — Kiln Purchase, Haywood County • A. Beth Love — Jewelry/Metal Tools, Clay County

35

arts & entertainment

On the tree

Christmas in Appalachia

A

s the temperatures drop 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.

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

Families can partake in wagon rides, iceless 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 to be had. Each and every date, time and place found within this section, each community around the region opening 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 grasp all Southern Appalachia has to offer.

36

A HART Christmas The stage production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” will be performed at 2 p.m. Dec. 17-18 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

What happens when the worst kids in the history of the world find out there are free snacks at Sunday school? They decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant! The Herdmans have taken over the holiday and insist on playing all the good parts. It’s disgraceful. They’ve never heard the Christmas story, and have no idea who Mary, Joseph or the wise men are.

Will the pageant be canceled? Will the other kids even show up to participate?

Will this be the worst pageant ever? Find out as “Kids at HART” present the classic Christmas tale.

Adult tickets are $10, students $5. To purchase tickets, call 828.452.6322 or www.harttheatre.org.

On the tree arts & entertainment

• The Holiday Homecoming celebration will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Holiday crafts, cider, traditional music and more.

• Santa will make an appearance from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. There will be holiday refreshments and more. During the event, children will be offered the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap, mail a letter to the North Pole and receive a keepsake ornament.

ALSO:

• “Christmas in the Park” will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Jackson County Recreation Park in Cullowhee. Visit with Santa, hot chocolate and marshmallow roasting. 828.293.3053.

————————————————————————————————————————————————————

• The High Mountain Squares “Christmas Dance” will be held from 6:15 to 8:45 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 16, at the Macon County Community Building in Franklin. Ace McGee will be the caller. Western style square dancing, main/stream, and plus levels. All welcome. 828.342.1560.

12 MONTH TERM 6% APR*

• “Andrea’s Student Christmas Piano Recital” will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Recital Hall in the Coulter Building at Western Carolina University.

This offer available for a limited time only!

————————————————————————————————————————————————————

7 Locations Serving you in Western North Carolina 219 Haywood St. ■ Asheville ■ 828.252.8234 1453 Sand Hill Rd. ■ Candler ■ 828.667.7245 3533 US 441 North ■ Whittier ■ 828.497.6211 3270 Hendersonville Rd. ■ Fletcher ■ 828.684.9999 746 East Main St. ■ Franklin ■ 828.524.4464 30 Highway 107 ■ Sylva ■ 828.586.0425 721 N. Main St. ■ Waynesville ■ 828.452.2216

December 14-20, 2016

• The Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation giftwrap project will be held through Dec. 24 at Mast General Store in downtown Waynesville.

Organizers are in need of donated wrapping materials and volunteers to work three-hour shifts at Mast General Store. Shoppers can bring their purchases to the gift-wrapping table in the lobby and volunteers will box and wrap the holiday gifts for a donation to Sarge’s. To donate wrapping materials, bring the items to Sarge’s Adoption Center, 256 Industrial Park Drive in Waynesville, from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Supply donations may also be taken to Mast General Store. To sign up to help gift wrap at Mast General Store, visit www.sargeanimals.org/mast-general-giftwrap or call 828.400.5713.

BORROW UP TO $1,200

We want to be your financial partner for life. *APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Normal application & approval process applies.

This is not a commitment to lend.

Learn more when you visit our website: mountaincu.org

289-80

Smoky Mountain News

@Smoky MtnNews

reclaim your weekend

|

visitnc.com/parks

37

38

Smoky Mountain News December 14-20, 2016

arts & entertainment

On the tree

Polar Express rolls into Bryson City

cotton candy and popcorn. There will also be a New Year’s Eve fireworks show.

Admission is free to the celebration. Skating and photos with Santa are both $5, with most activities inside the Exhibit Hall at $7. www.visitcherokeenc.com.

The Cherokee Lights & Legends Christmas will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 16-17 and 30-31 at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds.

This special Christmas event invites your family to stroll under the lights through fun, interactive displays that tell ancient Cherokee Christmas legends. You can also see the lighting of our 40-foot Christmas tree, have a visit with Santa, and take a spin on the synthetic ice rink.

Your family will also find a bonfire with Cherokee storytelling, two bouncy houses, a nine-hole mini-golf course, face painting, balloon animals, the opportunity to create a ParT-Pet (similar to a Build-a-Bear®), and free

Santa Claus and other Christmas activities will be held through Dec. 17 at the Swain County Heritage Museum in Bryson City.

• Letters to Santa: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Drop a line to Santa. All materials provided.

• Santa at the Museum: 1 to 4 p.m.

Enjoy a free photo opportunity with jolly St. Nick on the porch of the cabin located in the museum. Cookies and cocoa served in the lobby.

• Christmas Past — Mountain Traditions: 5 to 7 p.m. This brand new program is designed with the whole family in mind.

Held at the cabin in the museum, the event offers a fun, educational lecture on the Christmas meal, the felling and decorating of the tree, traditional toys and gifts, and more. Kids get to decorate the cabin tree with traditional decorations, as well as making their own popcorn, cranberry, or paper string to take home. Cookies and cocoa provided in the visitor center lobby.

800.867.9246.

‘Nutcracker Ballet’ returns to Franklin “The Nutcracker Ballet” will be performed at 7 p.m. Dec. 16 and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

On a very special Christmas Eve, a young girl named Natasha receives a beautiful gift in the form of a nutcracker. Through dreams and magic, Natasha is rescued from the evil Rat King by the nutcracker and taken on an exciting adventure to the Snowflake Forest and Land of Sweets where she meets many new friends. Set to the music of Tchaikovsky, this heart-warming holiday classic is perfect for the entire family. A full, two-act ballet presented

by A Family of Friends Productions in conjunction with Betsy’s School of Dance in Franklin.

Tickets are $8 for students, $12 for adults.

866.273.4615 or www.greatmountainmusic.com.

Smoky Mountain News

Cherokee Lights & Legends

Christmas in Bryson City

December 14-20, 2016

The Polar Express train excursion hits the tracks through Dec. 24 and Dec. 26-Jan. 1 at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad train depot in Bryson City.

In 1985, Chris Van Allsburg wrote The Polar Express, a story of a magical train ride on Christmas Eve. The train takes a young boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa Claus.

The excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Santa will also be onboard to meet and greet with children and guests.

Ticket prices begin $42 for adults, $28 for children and free for infants. Prices vary for all groups with other trip packages. For more information or to purchase tickets: 800.872.4681 or www.gsmr.com.

The 50-voice Mountain Voices chorus will present songs from their Christmas concert for the Highlands Cashiers Players’ annual Holiday Program of music, story, and refreshments at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at Highlands Performing Arts Center.

“The Loudest Voice,” the story to be dramatized by HCP actors, is about a Shirley, a young girl chosen to be the narrator of her school’s Christmas pageant.

Though mother is initially opposed to her participation, she does such a great job that everyone, including Mom, is impressed.

Sixth grader Maddie Jolly plays the role of Shirley, Adair Simon narrates, Ken Knight plays the teacher, Michael Lanzilotta, the father, Donna Cochran, the mother, and Sue Feldkamp, the neighbor Mrs. Kornbluh.

The Mountain Voices will be singing Christmas songs, both sacred and popular, conducted by founder of the group Beverly Barnett of Franklin and accompanied by pianist Aretha Brimmer.

This performance is especially poignant for Barnett and The Voices as it is the last time Brimmer will be with them at the piano. She is moving to her former home in Florida. Not only is this lady a superb pianist in her own right but also an amaz-

ingly talented accompanist. And on occasion she dons a Swedish costume and accent and puts on a comedy routine reminiscent of Victor Borge at the piano.

arts & entertainment

Mountain Voices holiday show

39

40

Books

Smoky Mountain News

A mystery tale with a canine hero T

Gary Carden

his is a delightful book and I am confident that it will be judged one of the best books of this year. All aspects of its release have been shrewdly designed to make it a seasonal favorite. It is a work of “popular fiction,” and its parts (plot, character, etc.) are skillfully woven to make it a best seller in the upcoming holidays.

Here are the key components of The Secret of Souls: Delia Cross is an 11-year-old actress who is on threshold of fame. At present, she is noted for her winsome charm and wit and, following her stunWriter ning auditions, she is slated to sign a contract that will make her wealthy and famous.

However, this success comes with some daunting problems. There is Patricia Cross, an alcoholic, stage-struck mother who subjects Delia to a deadly regimen of rehearsals and training (Think Jon Benet Ramsey). Her father, Bart Cross is a lackluster lush who collects vintage cars. Then, there is her twin brother, Robbie, who is shy and possibly a bit envious of his famous sister, but spends most of his time in his workshop designing fantasy games and practical jokes. As for the agent, let’s just call him Roman. He is a true scumbag who manages the family finances and Patricia’s sexual needs. He is also a master at embezzeling funds.

Delia is surrounded by this family of parasites and, despite her charm and charisma, she appears to be a hapless victim ... except for one thing. The Secret Life of Souls has one more character: Caity. In fact, Caity may be the protagonist of this suspensful and exciting novel. Caity is a dog.

To be specific, Caity is Queensland Heeler, a breed noted for their devotion to their caretakers. Their courageous response to any threat to the humans that care for them is amazing. Caity sits at Delia’s feet ... even at auditions, if allowed. She sleeps with her and the girl and her dog often sleep on the roof of the gently-sloped roof of the Cross house where they watch the sky for shooting stars.

Now, lets review my comment on Jon Benet Ramsey. Having a stagestruck mother is

one, including the corrupt agent who often feels that his major duties are best provided in Patrica’s bedroom.

However, our co-authors have created a fascinating substitute for murder. What if Delia is not murdered? What if she is horribly scarred in an accident that erases any possibility of a career as an actress? How does that change the motivations of the lechers and parasites?

And so it is, that on the night before the auditions that will launch Delia’s career, she is given a mild sedative and sent to bed.

Worried that the dog is becoming a problem, Patricia sends Caity packing by placing her in a kennel outside the house. The devoted dog immeThe Secret Life of Souls by Jack Ketchum and Lucky McKee. Pegasus Books, diately senses dan2016. 223 pages. ger. There is nothing supernatural not the only similarity. No doubt, hundreds of about Caity’s keen awareness. Rather, she simauthors have pondered the 20-year-old Jon ply knows from watching the behavior of the Benet Ramsey case and wondered if it were others. To Caity, Patricia, Roman and even possible to develop an “alternative cast.” shy, inept Robbie are threats.

Certainly, the co-authors of The Secret Life Delia has complained about the “ghosts” of Souls have taken such a variation to heart. that live in the ornate dolls house in her bedFor example, we may acknowledge the fact room, Patricia’s dollhouse which, according to that Patsy Ramsey was nothing like Patricia Delia is sometimes filled with flickering lights.

Cross, but successful crime fiction thrives on Remember Robbie, Delia’s twin brother, who black-hearted villains. Why not take some lib- loves to create practical jokes? By the time erties with Delia and her “basket of dreadthat the dog smells smoke, she begins a manic fuls.” So, alcohol is a prevalent factor and attempt to escape from the kennel. She sucgreed and ambition are key factors with every- ceeds, but at a terrible price to herself, arriv-

ing in Delia’s bedroom with painful injuries to her body and legs. The dog’s frantic barking alerts the household and Delia is finally removed from her burning bed, but with frightful scarring to her face ... a face which now bears the outline of her hands which had saved her eyes.

The immediate question is, what will happen to Delia’s acting career now? Will she now live beyond the “public eye”? Will she simply vanish into obscurity? Normally, that would be Delia’s fate, but it quickly becomes evident that Patricia has no intention of giving up her dream of becoming rich and famous. After consulting an “entertainment idol,” called Pearl, Patricia simply regroups her resources and begins working on plans for a foundation with Delia as the inspiration for thousands of maimed and scarred individuals.

With the assistance of Pearl, who is a hardened veteran of creating “autobiographies” for her clients. All she asks in return is a piece of the action.

As this tangled web becomes more complex, it becomes evident that Patricia Cross will carry out the deceptions, including the foundation and the creation of Delia’s book.

As for poor Delia, she is not a willing participant in this fiction. As Patricia stage-manages her daughter’s “story,” it becomes obvious that, should it prove necessary, she is perfectly capable of sacrificing her daughter to the deception.

The injured child spends every available moment with her dog. As the tension and threat increase, Caity becomes even more vigilant. At times the family members notice the low rumble of Caity’s growl. She anticipates the moment when she will cease to be a “protector” and will become an avenger.

What makes this cunningly constructed novel work is Caity, who will, doubtless, take her place in fiction’s parthenon of wonderful dogs. She “speaks” as a character. Eventually, she ceases to be a “singular first person as “I said,” but speaks as “plural first person, as “We watched.” What this suggests may explain the title of the novel. For me, she is most akin to Bob, Son of Battle which is a lost classic about a dog’s devotion in the face of tragedy.

Gary Carden is a writer, playwright and storyteller who lives in Sylva.

He can be reached gcarden498@aol.com.

Discuss 21st century counterculture “The Revival of the Hippie Counterculture” talk and discussion with Michael Lenz will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

Lenz will be presenting his new book Hippie Revival & Collected Writings. The book addresses the resurgence of hippie values and its spirit through the avenues of long essays, reflections, poetry, haiki and guest writings.

Flower power, peace and love. This is usually what comes to mind when we think of the hippie movement in the 1960s. However, there was also a strong sense of self-reliance, spiritual awakening and social change among this unique community. In recent years there has been a revival of the hippie counterculture with a re-emergence of many of the hippie ideals such as: the reemergence of self-sustaining communes, the growing popularity of meditation, the liberalization of anti-marijuana laws and the budding of environmental awareness.

Topics to be covered include: Meditation & Eastern Spirituality, communes, non-violent political protest, Marijuana reform, Earth consciousness and sustainability.

Free Sidekick with purchase of a Hopper!

Makita Tools December 14-20, 2016

$495

limit 2 per customer

828-456-6051

100 CHARLES ST. , WAYNESVILLE

Smoky Mountain News

Utility Trailers starting at $499

Employee Owned

www.haywoodbuilders.com

41

42

Outdoors

Smoky Mountain News

‘No change in your pockets’ Farmers grapple with effects of historic drought year

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFF WRITER owdy Bradley is 68 years old, and for nearly all of those years he’s been involved in some kind of farming, staying with the land through drought and flood, surplus and scarcity. The drought of 2016, however, has been the worst, hands-down — for him and for growers throughout the region.

“This has been some of the hottest, driest weather I’ve seen, “ Bradley said. “I was worried about the water because it was already getting low. A couple pastures just dried up.”

Bradley, whose operation is located in the Savannah area of Jackson County, grows a variety of crops, everything from tomatoes to corn to hay for his hogs and cattle. Despite the drought, he was able to get a decent yield from some of the lower-lying areas on the property, but on the hillsides dirt turned to dust, no moisture at all. And even in the lower portions where he had the ability to irrigate from nearby streams, the situation deteriorated as the summer wore on.

“At the last there wasn’t enough water to irrigate with, and if you had wells you’d be scared it would go dry,” Bradley said.

Yields for the year came out to about half of what they’d be in a normal year — about enough to break even, but not much beyond that.

“You don’t have no change in your pockets,” Bradley said.

The effects of the drought will linger on his farm long after rain returns water tables to normal levels, impacting his decisions about future equipment purchases, the size of his cattle herd and the quality of his pasture.

“I had planned on buying a couple bulls for breeding purposes the first of the year, but I’m not going to make that investment and I’m probably going to cut back on the cattle, because you didn’t have the grass coming in next year that you had been having,” Bradley said. “It’s going to take about a year or so to get some pastures back fertilized and seeded and to get a standard back again.”

Bradley isn’t alone in that predicament.

Drought had been threatening the region since growing season began, taking hold over the summer and strengthening that grip as autumn unfolded. Between Sept. 1 and Nov. 27, the National Weather Service station in Asheville reported only 1.1 inches of rain, down from the normal value of 9.95 inches.

D

Smoke hovers over drought-stricken cattle pasture during wildfire season. Donated photo

“When you see the streams that low, it’s just a reminder of how important that water source is and how important the availability of water in agriculture is.”

— William Shelton

By the time rain finally began to fall in late November, year-to-date precipitation at the Asheville station had dipped more than 12 inches below normal and six WNC counties had been designated as experiencing exceptional drought — the highest drought designation possible from the U.S. Drought Monitor. It was the first time that designation had appeared in North Carolina since 2008.

“We was glad to see it,” Bradley said of the several inches of rain that fell in the final days of November. “It was too late to do anything as far as grass or hay or anything like that. It’s too late but we were glad to see it.”

In a typical year, cattle farmers would just now be starting to feed their cattle hay as cold weather closed the season for pasture grazing, said Amanda Buchanan of the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Macon County. But this year, drought forced some producers to start feeding hay as early as July.

Hay prices spiked, cattle prices fell and cattle farmers found themselves tending to herds that offered less profit while demanding a heightened investment.

For some farmers, especially those who are in the business as a side venture to their fulltime job, the hardship of 2016 could make it difficult keep farming.

“It makes it hard for them to continue to justify having a herd without reducing it or completely getting out of the business right now and waiting for the price to come back up,” Buchanan said.

Neither Buchanan nor Bradley could name any farmers in the area who had been completely put out of business by the drought, but that doesn’t mean that nothing of the sort will come to pass. The worst of the drought might be over, but farmers will continue to feel the impact for quite some time. Hay prices are high, cattle prices are low and drought-bare pasturelands will require some investment before they can once more provide quality grazing.

“It’s been grazed so short there’s going to be a lot of invasive species come in or not (the species) they need, or the cover isn’t the same so they’re going to have to go back and replant everything,” Buchanan said. “It’s going to take time for the growth to occur.

They’re going to have to take cattle off of the pastures when they replant.”

Livestock producers were hit hard by the drought, but not all farmers are reeling quite so badly.

“I hate drought for the region, but actually vegetable producers can benefit from the drier conditions if they have irrigation, and we did irrigate,” said William Shelton, a vegetable farmer in Whittier. “When you have more dryness, it lessens the amount of disease on the foliage of the plants.”

Shelton farms low-lying land along the Tuckasegee River, which also serves as his irrigation source. Unlike Bradley, whose irrigation system draws from smaller streams, Shelton didn’t have to worry about his source drying up. Shelton uses a drip irrigation method that is quite effi-

Ski and snowboard race leagues Teams are forming for Cataloochee Ski Area’s middle and high school racing league, with racer registration day coming up 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, at Cataloochee Ski & Sports in Maggie Valley.

Racers can contact a team coach to sign up for that coach’s team, or contact racing@cataloochee.com to be assigned a team. Age, grade, gender, school and ski or snowboard preference should be included.

Middle school races are held at 6 p.m.

Tuesdays, Jan. 3 to Feb. 21 and high school races are held 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 4 to Feb. 22. Race finals will be Sunday, March 5. Race passes are valid from 1 to 10 p.m. on race days. $205 for lift, racing and rental; $185 for lift and racing; $95 for racing only. www.cataloochee.com/learn-toslide/school-race-programs.

outdoors

Skiers show off their speed during a race at Cataloochee. File photo

YOURFULLSERVICEBIKE SHOP FROMKIDSTOCUSTOM! With over 30 years of service,you can trust us with all your cycling needs.

SYLVA

ASHEVILLE

MOTIONMAKERS.COM

Kids to become snowmakers Kids will put their observation skills to the test to concoct the best fake snow possible during a program at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, at the Canton Library.

Children will make a variety of snow recipes and then decide which recipe yields the most realistic results. The program is part of the library’s monthly STEAM series, which focuses on science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics.

Open to children 6 to 12. 828.648.2924.

Upland pastures die for lack of water, though lower portions remain green due to their proximity to water.

Donated photo

December 14-20, 2016

We are excited to have Bill Morris, pharmacist & nutritionist with us full time!

Bill focuses on a holistic approach and specializes in: • • • • • • • • • • •

Fibromyalgia Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Adrenal Fatigue Sub-Clinical Hypothyroidism Osteo & Rheumatoid Arthritis Gout ADHD Poor Immune System/Shingles Ulcerative Colitis Acne Pain Relief

Smoky Mountain News

cient in its water use.

“Our yields actually go up a little bit during drought because we don’t have as much disease pressure,” Shelton said.

Raindrops splash spores of disease-causing fungi onto vegetable plants, with moist weather allowing those organisms to thrive. Dry conditions mean that less of the crop is lost to disease.

However, Shelton said he was as happy as anyone to see the rain finally fall.

Watching the soil turn to dust and stream flows diminish to a trickle proved just how much this region depends on water to maintain its cycle of normalcy.

“When you see the streams that low, it’s just a reminder of how important that water source is and how important the availability of water in agriculture is,” Shelton said.

371-14

366 RUSS AVE | WAYNESVILLE | 828.452.0911 BiLo Shopping Center Find us on facebook: www.facebook.com/kimspharmacy

43

outdoors

WNC's Largest Selection of Granite & Quartz.

Solid Surface Specialists

62 Communications Dr., Waynesville • Appointments Suggested

(828) 452-4747 WWW.SSS-TOPS.COM

Drought diminishes due to rain Last week’s rains caused a downgrading of drought designations across the board in Western North Carolina.

Before the rain, six counties had been classified as experiencing exceptional drought — the highest designation possible and one that had not been in place since 2008. Those six counties — Jackson, Swain,

Macon, Clay, Graham and Cherokee — are now in the second-highest designation, extreme drought. Nine more western counties, including Haywood, are a step lower at severe drought.

Maps, completed by the U.S. Drought Monitor, are updated every Thursday and available at www.ncdrought.org.

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

Duke Energy donates toward firefighting

44

The Duke Energy Foundation gave a hand toward supporting firefighters battling wildfires this fall with a $100,000 donation.

“These men and women are on the front lines protecting our communities,” said Shawn Heath, president, Duke Energy Foundation. “We are glad to make this contribution to aid their efforts.”

Of the total amount, $75,000 went to the Western North Carolina Firefighters Association and $25,000 went to the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Foundation.

Wildland firefighting is an expensive task. Total costs of this year’s wildfire season in Western North Carolina have not yet been calculated, but as of Nov. 26 firefighting on the National Forests in North Carolina had cost $27.7 million.

Climate change and wildfire prevention to be discussed In the wake of a historic wildfire season that burned more than 150,000 acres throughout the Southeast, two environmental experts will discuss how climate change is affecting the region at 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19, at the Climate Collider in Asheville.

Jim Fox, Director of UNC Asheville’s

National Environmental Modeling and Analysis Center, and Josh Kelly, Public Lands Field Biologist at MountainTrue, will address the impacts of climate change as well as strategies for mitigation, including tactics for managing a forest to reduce the threat of wildfires to human development. A question-andanswer session will follow the presentation.

Free, with RSVP required at http://action.mountaintrue.org/page/s/afte r-the-fires.

The Climate Collider is located at 1 Haywood Street, Suite 401.

Some fire bans lifted Recent rounds of rain have caused fire bans to cease on some public lands.

■ Fire restrictions in the Nantahala, Pisgah and Uwharrie national forests were lifted on Tuesday, Dec. 6. However, the National Forest Service asks visitors to be careful when using fire.

■ The Blue Ridge Parkway lifted its burn ban on Thursday, Dec. 8. The ban had been in place since Nov. 9.

■ While fire restrictions on the Appalachian Trail between Newport Road and Mountain Pass Road in Virginia were lifted on Wednesday, Dec. 7, a fire ban remains in effect along the A.T.’s path through North Carolina and Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia.

■ The N.C. Forest Service lifted its fire ban in 32 western counties on Friday, Dec. 2.

■ A fire ban remains in place in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Farm School returns to Western NC Farm School students talk with Small Business Center Director Tiffany Henry during a session last year. Donated photo

The Appalachian Farm School will return to Southwestern Community College in Swain County for its third year on Jan. 10, offering established and aspiring farmers a tutorial on the business side of agriculture.

Classes meet from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays from Jan. 10 to Feb. 28 at SCC’s Swain Center. Topics include farm evaluation, goal-setting, marketing, pricing, rules and regulations, an introduction to wholesale and funding options. Subject-matter experts will offer up-to-date information and connections to local and statewide resources.

“Every year, we get really great feedback about how our Appalachian Farm School is meeting a tremendous need in the communities we serve,” said Tiffany Henry, director of SCC’s Small Business Center. “Growing your own crops and raising livestock can be an extremely fulfilling way to make a living, but it can also be quite challenging. Our school is designed to guide you through some of the more difficult aspects.”

Free, with registration required at www.southwesterncc.edu/sbc.

Tiffany Henry, t_henry@southwesterncc.edu or 828.339.4426.

Summer camps and Envirothon programs in Haywood, Buncombe and Madison counties will benefit from a $25,000 grant awarded to the Southwestern Resource Conservation and Development Council from the Pigeon River Fund.

The money will support environmental education activities offered by the soil and water conservation districts in each county. Haywood initiated its Youth Environmental Stewardship camp 17 years ago, with Buncombe and Madison starting similar camps in recent years.

Envirothon is an environmental competition offered throughout the United States and Canada, providing middle and high school teams a chance to compete in subjects ranging from wildlife to soil and land use. The grant will serve to make these activities affordable for kids of all income levels.

Since its creation in 1996, the Pigeon River Fund has awarded millions of dollars for water conservation and education in Haywood, Buncombe and Madison counties. The money comes from Duke Energy in exchange for the company’s damming the Pigeon River for hydropower the Fund is managed by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.

What Dad REALLY Wants for Christmas.

HUNTING & OUTDOOR GEAR | FIREARMS | ARCHERY

facebook.com/smnews

ONE STOP SHOP!

December 14-20, 2016

Package wrapping offered by Macon 4-H Macon County 4-H’ers will set up a present-wrapping shop 3 to 6 p.m. through Dec. 15 at the Macon County Cooperative Extension Service to relieve shoppers’ stress while also raising funds for the upcoming year.

Club members will wrap small packages for $2 and large packages for $5. Proceeds will support 4-H summer activities, scholarships and general club needs.

The Cooperative Extension Center is located at 193 Thomas Heights Road in Franklin.

outdoors

Environmental camps and competitions benefit from funding

We can custom build your deck, take care of 100% of your wiring and electric needs as well as full install of the hot tub of your choice.

Smoky Mountain News

CALL TODAY!

The Hot Tub Store 472 E. MAIN ST., SYLVA

828.339.3300 MON. - SAT. 10- 6

1478 Dellwood Rd., Waynesville NC 28786

828.926.8484

TheTubStore.com

45

outdoors

Pint nights to support the Smokies

Smoky Mountain News

December 14-20, 2016

A series of pint nights at Blue Ghost Brewery in Fletcher will feature a presentation by Friends of the Smokies, with a percentage of sales supporting fire relief efforts in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Presentation topics will include the reintroduction of elk to the Smokies, climate change’s effects on the park and the National Park Service’s 100th anniversary.

A specialty brew, Centennial White IPA, will feature a 6.6 percent ABV and 43 IBU to highlight the park’s highest elevation — 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome. Smokies-themed food from Olive Catering Company will be available for purchase.

Nightly topics are: ■ At 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, Celebrating Public Lands: 100 Years of National Parks.

■ At 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, Elk in Western North Carolina.

■ At 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, Salamanders and Storms: Climate Change in the Smokies.

The Smokies-themed pint nights are part of Blue Ghost Brewing’s larger series about the natural history of WNC, offered on the third Thursday of each month through March.

New firewood restrictions proposed on the Parkway

SPACE AVAILABLE Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News 828 | 452 | 4251

46

A proposal to allow only heat-treated firewood in Blue Ridge Parkway camping and picnic areas is currently being considered for approval, with public comment open through Jan. 7.

Under the proposed policy, only firewood bearing a seal from the U.S. Department of Agriculture or a state agency could be used, with the new rules taking effect when facilities open for the 2017 season.

Untreated firewood provides handy transportation for invasive pests, which can lay eggs or stow away in firewood bundles to infest surrounding forestlands. New infestations have caused widespread tree mortality in the Southern Appalachians, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Shenandoah National Park and North Carolina State Parks are among the many entities to have already adopted similar firewood policies.

Comments can be submitted online at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/blri-heattreatedwood

WNC Calendar COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS • Mike Wolf, Frank Fritz and their team are excited to return to North Carolina. They plan to film episodes of the hit series AMERICAN PICKERS throughout the region this fall. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the pickers can spend the better part of the day looking through, send us your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855.old.rust.

• Beginners Chess Club is held on Fridays at 4 p.m. at the Canton Public Library. Ages 8-108 invited to participate. 648.2924.

• Qualla Boundary Historical Society meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Everyone is welcome.

BUSINESS & EDUCATION • One-on-one computer lessons are offered weekly at the Waynesville and Canton branches of the Haywood County Public Library. Lesson slots are available from 10 a.m.-noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Canton and from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Waynesville Library. Sign up at the front desk of either library or call 356.2507 for the Waynesville Library or 648.2924 for the Canton Library.

FUNDRAISERS AND BENEFITS • A charity shopping event is scheduled for 10 a.m.noon on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville. Browse and purchase handmade gifts from Ecuador. Proceeds support a library system for children in the remote Andean regions of Ecuador. Blankets, scarves, bags and jewelry. Info on READ/LEER: www.read-organization.com. Info on Blue Ridge Books: 456.6000 or www.blueridgebooksnc.com.

• Macon County 4-H volunteers are wrapping Christmas gifts as a fundraiser from 3-6 p.m. each day through Dec. 15. Bring presents to the Macon County Cooperative Extension Service. Small packages are wrapped for $2 apiece; large packages are wrapped for $5 each.

• A charitable pint night is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Dec. 15 at Blue Ghost Brewery in Fletcher to benefit emergency fire relief efforts in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A specialty batch Centennial White IPA is on tap to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service.

• Twin Leaf Brewery is hosting a charitable pint night to benefit emergency relief efforts from recent wildfires on Saturday, Dec. 17, in Asheville. Proceeds benefit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. www.friendsofthesmokies.org.

• The Sarge’s gift wrap project will be underway during regular store hours til Dec. 24 at the Waynesville Mast General Store. Bring purchases to the gift-wrapping table and get your gift wrapped for a donation to Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation. Sign up to help wrap: www.sargesanimals.org/mast-general-gift-wrap.

400.5713.

• The Canton Senior Center Advisory Council is holding a raffle for a “Basket of Gifts and Gift Certificates.”

Tickets are $5 and may be purchased from council members or at the Senior Center (648.8173). Drawing is on Friday, Dec. 30, at the Senior Center. Need not be present to win.

HEALTH MATTERS • “Get Covered Jackson” – an opportunity to learn

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted. about affordable care health insurance options – will be offered by Mountain Projects, Inc., from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Jackson County Department of Social Services in Sylva. 476.9090.

• Free acupuncture clinics will be offered for Haywood County Veterans at 7:15 p.m. on Dec. 14 as well as at 10 a.m. on Dec. 17 at 1384 Sulphur Springs Road in Waynesville. 356.5577.

• The American Red Cross will have a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. on Dec. 16 at the Veteran’s Building on Moose Branch Road in Robbinsville. www.redcrossblood.org/bloodapp or 800.RED-CROSS (800.733.2767).

• The American Red Cross will have a blood drive from noon-4:30 p.m. on Dec. 19 at the Masonic Lodge at 435 E. Marshall St. in Waynesville. www.redcrossblood.org/bloodapp or 800.RED-CROSS (800.733.2767).

• The American Red Cross will have a blood drive from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Dec. 28 at the Lowe’s in Waynesville. www.redcrossblood.org/bloodapp or 800.RED-CROSS (800.733.2767).

• The American Red Cross will have a blood drive from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 28 at the First United Methodist Church in Sylva. www.redcrossblood.org/bloodapp or 800.RED-CROSS (800.733.2767).

• Assistance with Marketplace Open Enrollment is available through Mountain Projects. Enrollment through the Affordable Care Act is currently open and lasts until Jan. 31. 452.1447 or 800.627.1548.

• A support group meeting for those with Parkinsons Disease and their caregivers will be held at 2 p.m. on the last day Wednesday of the month at the Waynesville Senior Resource Center.

• A support group for anyone with Multiple Sclerosis, family and friends meets at 2 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in the Heritage Room at the Jackson County Senior Center in Sylva. Sponsored by Greater Carolinas Chapter of National MS Society. Info: 293.2503. Offered in cooperation with the Southwestern Commission Agency on Aging.

• A monthly grief support group sponsored by The Meditation Center meets at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at The Meditation Center at 894 East Main Street in Sylva. Info: www.meditatewnc.org or 356.1105.

• Inner Guidance from an Open Heart will meet from 68 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at The Meditation Center at 894 East Main Street in Sylva.

Info: www.meditate-wnc.org or 356.1105.

• Dogwood Insight Center presents health talks at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month.

• Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes are available at Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. Classes are offered bimonthly on an ongoing basis. Register or get more info: 586.7907.

• Angel Medical Center’s diabetes support group meets at 4 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month in the AMC dining room. 369.4166.

• A free weekly grief support group is open to the public from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at SECU Hospice House in Franklin. Hosted by Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

• A monthly grief processing support group will meet from 4-5:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month

Smoky Mountain News

47

at the Homestead Hospice and Palliative Care in Clyde.

452.5039.

• A Men’s Night Out will take place at 6:30 p.m. on the third floor of the hospital. on the first Wednesday of each month at The Meditation Center at 894 E. Main St. in Sylva. www.meditatewnc.org or 356.1105.

• A free, weekly grief support group will meet from 12:30-2 p.m. on Thursdays at the SECU Hospice House in Franklin. 692.6178 or mlee@fourseasonscfl.org.

• “ECA on the Move!” – a walking program organized

by Jackson County Extension and Community Association – meets from 9-10 a.m. on Mondays through Thursdays. It’s an effort to meet the American Heart Association’s recommendation of 10,000 steps per day. 586.4009.

• A Tuesday Meditation Group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Franklin.

RECREATION AND FITNESS • Tai chi is offered from 10:45-11:45 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at Haywood Regional Health and Fitness Center. It’s also offered from 1-2 p.m. on Thursdays. Taught by Bill Muerdter. For info about the classes or HRHFC memberships and offerings, call 452.8080 or visit MyHaywoodRegional.com/Fitness.

• Ultimate Frisbee games are held from 5:30-8 p.m. on Mondays at the Cullowhee Recreation Park. Organized

by Jackson County Parks & Recreation. Pick-up style.

293.2053 or www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• The Wednesday Croquet Group meets from 10 a.m.noon at the Vance Street Park across from the shelter.

For senior players ages 55 or older. 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

SPIRITUAL • First United Methodist Church of Sylva will hold three Christmas services: A contemporary service at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24; a traditional service at 8 p.m. on Dec. 24; and an 11 a.m. service on Dec. 25. 586.2358.

POLITICAL • The Haywood County NAACP will meet at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Law Office of Chuck Dickson at 137 Hazel St. in Waynesville. Katherine Bartel will review brainstorming ideas about ways to respond to hate in the community.

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings Resource Center in Waynesville. 926.6567.

• Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina – an effort to help area residents commit to a healthier lifestyle, will meet from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

• Haywood County Senior Resource Center is looking into starting a weekly Euchre Card Group. If interested, contact Michelle Claytor at mclaytor@mountainprojects.org or 356.2800.

• A Silver Sneakers Cardio Fit class will meet from 1011 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Waynesville Recreation Center. For ages 60 and above. Cost is regular admission fee to the rec center or free for members.

456.2030 or tplowman@waynesvillenc.gov.

• Book Club is held at 2 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800 • Senior croquet for ages 55 and older is offered from 9-11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Vance Street Park in front of Waynesville Recreation Center.

Free. For info, contact Donald Hummel at 456.2030 or dhummel@waynesvillenc.gov.

• A Hand & Foot card game is held at 1 p.m. on Mondays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

• Senior Sale Day is on the third Friday of every month at the Friends of the Library Used Bookstore. Patrons 60 and older get 20 percent off all purchases. Proceeds benefit the Sylva Library.

• Pinochle game is played at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2813.

• Hearts is played at 12 p.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2813.

• Mah Jongg is played at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville.

356.2813.

AUTHORS AND BOOKS • The Theme Team Book Club will be presented by the Waynesville Library from 2-4 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Pick any book from a chosen them; each participant gets a chance to discuss his/her book. Signup required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

• Canton Book Club meets at 3:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month, at the Canton Library.

648.2924.

• Cookin’ the Books will be held at noon on the last Wednesday of the month at the Waynesville Public Library. A book club focused on cookbooks. All members choose a recipe from the book and bring it to share. The group will discuss the good and bad aspects of the chosen cookbook. 356.2507.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES • The Mexican Train Dominoes Group seeks new players to join games at 1:30 p.m. each Tuesday at the Senior

KIDS & FAMILIES • A Winter Reading Challenge starts Dec. 15 at Haywood County libraries. Stop by any county library for a reading bingo card. Complete challenge by Feb. 1.

• Homeschool Book Explorers, ages 8-12, meet at 2 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, at the Canton Library. Each month, read books from one genre before meeting and share with group. Snacks, hands-on activity and socializing. 648.2924.

• The Canton Library offers a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics) program each month. At 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 20, make “snow” from different recipes. Children will use their observation skills to decide which recipe makes the most realistic snow. Children ages 6-12 are welcome to attend.

Please call 648-2924 for more information.

• Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) is now accepting applications for the spring semester. Instruction in tra-

wnc calendar

ditional Appalachian mountain music: guitar, fiddle, banjo, mandolin and autoharp. Grades 3-12. Classes meet from 3:15-4:45 p.m. on Tuesdays starting Jan. 10 at Cullowhee Valley School. Register by Dec. 20: 506.8252 or mairi.padgett@gmail.com.

• Family Game Time is from 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. 524.3600. For ages 5-up.

• A family story time is offered at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21, at the Fines Creek Library.

Stories, music and craft. For ages 1-6 and their caregivers. 627.0146.

• Fun Friday, everything science, is held at 4 p.m. on Fridays at Jackson County Public Library. 586.2016.

• Teen Coffeehouse is at 4:30 p.m. on the first, third, and fourth Tuesday at Jackson County Public Library.

Spend time with other teens talking and sharing. 12 and up. 586.2016.

• Construction Zone! will be held at 4 p.m. at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 28, at the Canton Library. The library will supply the LEGO® building blocks, you supply the imagination! For children ages 6-12. For more information, please call 648.2924.

• Youth Outright meets every Sunday from 4 p.m. -6 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Asheville for ages 14-20. Youth Outright is a youth advocacy and leadership program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth in 18 counties in Western North Carolina. www.youthoutright.org.

• A Tuesday Library Club for ages 5-12 meets at 4 p.m. each Tuesday (except for the fifth Tuesday on months that occurs) at the Canton Library. Hands-on activities like exercise, cooking, LEGOs, science experiments and crafts. 648.2924 or kpunch@haywoodnc.net.

December 14-20, 2016

AND CLUBS • Wednesdays in the Stacks, “WITS”, a new program for children in grades 3-6, on the third Wednesdays of the month from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Macon County Library. WITS will include lots of fun games, prizes, and hands-on activities. This club replaces book club previous held on the third Thursdays of the month. 526.3600.

• “Plug in and Read” – a digital story time – is offered for ages 4-6 and their caregivers at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21, at the Waynesville Library.

648.2924.

• Registration is underway for the Haywood County Youth Recreation Basketball League. Age groups range from 5-6 to 11-12. Age cut-off is Aug. 31.

Games start Dec. 17. Register anytime at the HCRP office in Waynesville. 452.6789 or drtaylor@haywoodnc.net.

• Youth Outright meets the third Saturday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Asheville for ages 11-13. Youth Outright is a youth advocacy and leadership program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth in 18 counties in Western North Carolina. www.youthoutright.org.

• Rock and Read is at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays at Jackson County Public Library. 586-2016.

• “Art Beats for Kids” will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. on Thursdays at the Charles Heath Gallery in Bryson City.

A new project every week. $20 per child, with includes lesson, materials and snack. To register, call 828.538.2054.

• WNC Martial Arts will hold karate classes from 67:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at the Old Armory in Waynesville. For more info, contact Margaret Williams at 301.0649 or mvwilliams39@gmail.com.

• Stories, songs and a craft are offered for ages zerosix (and caregivers) at 10:30 a.m. each Tuesday at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

• Book Buddies for ages 0-3 is from 9:30-10:15 a.m. on Tuesday at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville.

• A program called “Imagine”, an art program for children 8-12 meets at 2 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Jackson County Public Library. Program contains art, writing, and drama. 586.2016.

• Rompin’ Stompin’, an hourlong storytime with music, movement and books, is held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays and at 11 a.m. on Fridays at Canton Library. For ages zero to six. 648.2924.

• Crafternoons are at 2:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month at Hudson Library in Highlands.

• Library Olympics will be held at 2 p.m. on Fridays at Jackson County Public Library. Children age 5 and up get active through relay races, bingo, mini golf.

586.2016.

Smoky Mountain News

ONGOING KIDS ACTIVITIES

• Get Moving, a program for children ages 5-12 to encourage children to live a healthy life through exercise and healthy eating, will be held on the first Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. at the Canton Public Library. 648.2924 • Full STEAM Ahead, a program for children ages 5-12 to allow them to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through fun hands-on activities. Program open to the first 15 participants, at 4 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month at Canton Public Library. 648.2924.

• Family Story Time is held on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. at the Canton Public Library. Ages 0-6. Stories, songs, dance and crafting. 648.2924.

• Rompin’ Stompin’ Story Time is held on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. and Fridays 11 a.m. at the Canton Public Library. Ages 0-6. An hour long story time full of music and movement. 648.2924.

• Storytimes are held at 10 and 10:40 a.m. every

48 Thursday at Hudson Library in Highlands.

• Page Pals for ages 3-5 is from 10:30-11:15 a.m. on Tuesday at Blue Ridge Books in Waynesville.

• Story time and kids can make their own piece of art from 10 a.m.-noon every Saturday during the Family Art event sponsored by the Jackson County Arts Council at the Jackson County Farmers Market located at the Community Table, downtown Sylva. On the first Saturday of each month, there is a scavenger hunt with prizes. 399.0290 or www.jacksoncountyfarmermarket.org.

• A Teen Advisory Group meets at 4 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month to discuss YA books and teen program events at Canton Library. http://haywoodlibrary.libguides.com/teen or 648.2924.

• Michael’s Kids Club will be held for ages 3-and-up from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturdays at Michael’s in Waynesville. $2 per child for 30 minutes of creative crafts. 452.7680.

• A Lowe’s Build and Grow session for ages 3-and-up is scheduled from 10-11 a.m. on Saturdays at the Sylva (586.1170) and Waynesville (456.9999) Lowe’s stores. Free.

• Art classes are available for kids 10 and older from 4:15-5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Bascom in Highlands. $15 per class. 787.2865 or www.thebascom.org.

• Art Adventure classes are taught for ages 5-10 from 3:30-4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Bascom in Highlands. Theme: metal. Instructor: Bonnie Abbott. $20 per month. 787.2865.

• Free, weekly, after-school enrichment classes are offered by the Bascom and MCAA from 3-5 p.m. on Thursdays at Macon Middle School through a grant from the Jim McRae Endowment for the Visual Arts. To register, contact Bonnie Abbott at 743.0200.

•A Lego club will meet at 4 p.m. every fourth Thursday

of the month, at Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. Library provides Legos and Duplos for ages 3 and up. Free. 488.3030.

•A community breastfeeding information and support group meets from 10:30 am.-noon on the first Saturday of each month in the main lobby of the Smoky Mountain OB/GYN Office in Sylva. Free; refreshments provided. For information, contact Brandi Nations (770.519.2903), Stephanie Faulkner (506.1185 or www.birthnaturalwnc), or Teresa Bryant (587-8223).

• Science Club is held at 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month for grades K-6 at the Macon County Public Library. 524.3600.

• Macon County 4-H Needlers club, a group of youth learning the art and expression of knitting and crochet crafts, meets on the second Tuesday of each month.

For information, call 349.2046.

• A Franklin Kids’ Creation Station is held from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturdays at uptown Gallery in Franklin.

Snacks provided. $20 tuition. 743.0200.

• SafeKids USA Blue Dragon Tae Kwon Do School offers defense training with after-school classes Monday through Friday and Saturday mornings.

627.3949 or www.bluedragontkd.net.

and visits from classroom animals $7 cost per child; $3 more for each additional child in a family. Register at: www.ncarboretum.org/education-programs/youthfamily-programs/wee-naturalist

KIDS MOVIES • A classic Christmas movie will be shown at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Canton Library.

648.2924.

• A teen movie will be shown at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14. Christmas theme. 648.2924.

• A family friendly movie will be shown at 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Waynesville Library.

356.2507.

• A Christmas movie featuring famous puppets will be shown at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 28, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Info, including movie title: 524.3600.

• A family movie will be shown at 10:30 a.m. every Friday at Hudson Library in Highlands.

• Family story time for ages zero to six years old is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. each Tuesday at the Canton Library. 648.2924.

• A Lego Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month from 3:30-5 p.m. at Waynesville Library.

452.5169.

• A Lego Club meets the second Thursday of the month at 4 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. at the Macon County Public Library. 526.3600.

• A Lego Club meets the fourth Thursday of the month at 4:30 p.m. at Jackson County Public Library. 5862016.

• A Lego Club meet the second Wednesday of the month at 5 p.m. at Cashiers Community Library.

743.0215.

• A Lego Club meets at 4 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of the month at Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

Legos and Duplos provided for ages three and up.

488.3030.

• Teen time 3:30-4:30 p.m. Thursdays at Waynesville Library. A program for teens and tweens held each week. Each week is different, snacks provided. 3562511 • Homework Help, 3 to 5 p.m. Mondays for students in grades 2 through 6, Canton Branch Library. Former schoolteacher turned Youth Services Librarian Katy Punch offers homework help on a first-come, firstserved basis. Katy, 648.2924.

•Teen Advisory Group, first Wednesday of each month at 4 p.m. For ages 13-18. Teens can enjoy snacks while discussing popular young adult books, help plan events and displays for children and teens at the library, and participate in community service projects.

Canton Library, 648.2924.

• The American Girls Club meets at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. The club meets one Saturday a month, call for details. Club is based on a book series about historical women. Club members read and do activities. Free. 586.9499.

• Adventure Club on Tuesdays 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. for grades K-2 at the Macon County Public Library. 524.3600.

• Culture Club on the second Wednesday of the month, 1 to 2 p.m. for K-6 graders. Guest speakers, books, photos, crafts and food from different countries and cultures. Macon County Public Library. 524.3600.

• Children’s craft time, fourth Wednesday, 3:45 p.m. at Cashiers Community Library. 743.0215 • The Wee Naturalist program, which is for children ages 2-5 (with a parent or guardian), is held from 1011:30 a.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays at the North Carolina Arboretum. Age-appropriate activities such as nature walks, garden exploration, stories, crafts

A&E HOLIDAYS •The 50-voice Mountain Voices chorus will present songs from their Christmas concert for the Highlands Cashiers Players’ annual Holiday Program of music, story, and refreshments at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at Highlands Performing Arts Center.

• Harris Regional Hospital is offering an opportunity to meet Santa from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 15, in the main lobby in Sylva. Cider, hot chocolate and holidaythemed refreshments. Keepsake ornament.

• Christmas in the Park will be held on Friday, Dec. 16 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Recreation Park in Cullowhee. Visit Santa, roast marshmallows and enjoy other activities. 293.3053 or http://www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• Haywood Dancers will host a Christmas Dance at 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, at Angie’s Dance Academy in Clyde. Ballroom music and dancing. Holiday dress suggested but not required. $10. Info and directions: 734.8726.

• High Mountain Squares will host their “Christmas Dance” from 6:15-8:45 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, at the Macon County Community Building on Georgia Road in Franklin. Western-style dancing, main-stream plus levels. 342.1560, 332.0001 or www.highmountainsquares.com.

• The Holiday Homecoming celebration will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Holiday crafts, cider, traditional music and more.

• The Jackson County Farmers Market will host its annual “Holiday Bazaar” from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Dec. 17 in Sylva. www.jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

• “Andrea’s Student Christmas Piano Recital” will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Recital Hall in the Coulter Building at Western Carolina University.

• Santa Claus and other Christmas activities will be held from now till Dec. 17 at the Swain County Heritage Museum in Bryson City. 800.867.9246.

Letters to Santa: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Drop a line to Santa.

All materials provided. Santa at the Museum: 1 to 4 p.m. Enjoy a free photo opportunity with jolly St. Nick on the porch of the cabin located in the museum.

Cookies and cocoa served in the lobby.

• Visit with Santa from noon-4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24, at The Factory in Franklin. 349.8888 or FranklinFun.com.

• Kids Crew Christmas is from 1-3 p.m. on Dec. 17 at The Factory in Franklin. Christmas craft, scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, visit with Santa (noon-4 p.m.) and receive a free gift. 349.8888 or FranklinFun.com.

• Cookies with Santa is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 20, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. 524.3600.

• Kids can wear pajamas to a special holiday program at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 20, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. 524.3600.

FOOD & DRINK • The “Taste of Local” will be held from 3 to 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 15, at Ingles Markets in Waynesville.

Support local food entrepreneurs as you meet more than 20 local suppliers and sample their products that are sold at Ingles. Some of the participants include: Ally’s Bars (Mills River), Annie’s Breads (Asheville), Boojum Brewing (Waynesville), City Bakery (Asheville), Hickory Nut Gap Meats (Fairview), Mimi’s Mountain Mixes (Hendersonville), Roots Hummus (Asheville), Sunburst Trout (Waynesville), Tribal Grounds Coffee (Waynesville).

ON STAGE & IN CONCERT • “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” will be performed by Smoky Mountain Community Theatre Dec. 16-18 in the Gem Theater in Bryson City. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Monday; and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students. bellla@hollins.edu.

• The National Theatre of London’s encore performance of “War Horse” will be screened at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Highlands Performing Arts Center. Tickets: highlandspac.org, 526.9047 or at the door at 507 Chestnut Street in Highlands.

• “The Nutcracker Ballet” will be performed at 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

• “Andrea’s Student Christmas Piano Recital” will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Recital Hall in the Coulter Building at Western Carolina University.

• The Blue Ridge Big Band will perform at 3 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 18, at The Strand at 38 Main in Waynesville. Tickets are $18 828.283.0079 or www.38main.com.

CLASSES AND PROGRAMS • Bingo is offered at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Canton Library for adults 18 and older.

648.2924.

• A discussion on “The Revival of the Hippie

• Laurey-Faye Dean will be the featured artist with a live demonstration and discussion at “The Potter’s Wheel” series from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 24 at The Wild Fern in Bryson City.

• Learn how to make a rag quilt from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Dec. 28 at Jackson County Extension in Sylva. $5.

Registration required: 586.4009.

• The Dusty Pallet is the newest art gallery in Franklin. The studio is located in downtown at 52 East Main Street. Are you ready for a paint party? For only $35, the gallery provides everything you need to create your own masterpiece. Watch for our days and times at their website, www.thedustypallet.com. Call and schedule your group at 524.5676. The shop is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Cribbage is at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Maggie Valley Inn. 410.440.7652 or 926.3978.

• An Antique, Vintage & Handcrafted Flea Market starts at 8 a.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 3029 Soco Road in Maggie Valley. Bring your own table/tent. Spaces rent for $10 a day or $25 for all three days.

• The Adult Coloring Group will meet at 2 p.m. on Fridays in the Living Room of the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. An afternoon of creativity and camaraderie. Supplies are provided, or bring your own.

Beginners are welcome as well as those who already enjoy this new trend. kmoe@fontanalib.org or 524.3600.

PROGRAMS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY • DAY PASSES AVAILABLE 268-221

WAYNESVILLE

RECREATION CENTER 550 Vance St. • Waynesville • 828.456.2030 www.waynesvillenc.gov

• Haywood County Arts Council is inviting artist members to participate in its annual Artist Member Show.

Download a show contract/inventory sheet from www.haywoodarts.org. Send completed forms to gallery@haywoodarts.org or P.O. Box 306; Waynesville, N.C. 28786.

• Paint Nite Waynesville will be held at 7 p.m. on Fridays at the Panacea Coffeehouse. Grab a cup of coffee, glass of wine or pint of craft beer and get creative. $20 per person. Group rates available. Sign up at Panacea or call host Robin Smathers at 400.9560. paintnitewaynesville@gmail.com.

FEATURES

INTERNET FOR BUSINESS

• The Wild Fern is hosting several local potters at the studio throughout the year. Stop by to see works from the potter’s collection and chat with these talented artists as they create on the wheel and share their unique styles. 736.1605 or info@wildfernstudios.com.

Service interruptions resolved very quickly with updates direct to your phone.

• The Jackson Rangers Camp 1917 will hold monthly meetings at 6 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Barkers Creek Community Center.

Members are being sought to participate in honor guard graveside events and honor Confederate soldiers. The Confederate Rose, a ladies auxiliary group that supports active members, meets at the same time and location. 736.6222 or jrcamp1917@hotmail.com.

The fastest Internet speeds in Western North Carolina with up to 750 Mbps.

• “Stitch,” the community gathering of those interested in crochet, knit and needlepoint, meet at 2:30 p.m. every first Sunday of the month at the Canton Public Library. All ages and skill levels welcome. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• The Sew Easy Girls meet from noon-3 p.m. on the first Monday of every month at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office’s conference room. Learn how to sew. 586.4009.

• A community art group meets at 10 a.m. every Wednesday at the Hudson Library in Highlands.

828.526.3031.

Customized Internet, Wi-Fi, Data Center & Security solutions to meet each business’s needs.

Smoky Mountain News

• HART’s holiday production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” will be held Dec. 17-18. www.harttheatre.org.

We’re having fun — Come join us!

• Jackson County Arts council will have an “Artist Talk” featuring Susan Lingg from 6-7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19 in the Jackson County Library Community Room in Sylva. Lingg will demonstrate her technique painting a winter scene. 507.9820 or info@jacksoncountyarts.org.

December 14-20, 2016

• The Haywood Arts Regional Theatre and Empire Distributing will host an evening of fine dining and wine at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, at Harmons Den Bistro located in the new Daniel & Belle Fangmeyer Theater at HART in Waynesville. Only 20 spots available for this four-course and wine event. Cost is $75 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. To RSVP, call the box office at 828.456.6322.

Counterculture” will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 15, in the Macon County Public Library Meeting Room in Franklin. Led by Michael Lenz. 524.3600.

wnc calendar

• Cherokee Lights and Legends Christmas will be celebrated from 5-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through December, except for the Dec. 23-24. Enjoy interactive displays of Cherokee legends, ice skating, a 40-foot Christmas tree and more at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds. 800.438.1601. Admission free with fees for activities.

Technical support: router configuration, VPN support, and networking.

Redundancy services: remote data backups and backup Internet connections.

Local networks: custom private connections within buildings and between buildings.

Static, public IP addresses allowing remote access from anywhere in the world.

828.258.8562

skyrunner.net

49

wnc calendar

• A writer’s group meets at 1 p.m. every Thursday at Hudson Library in Highlands. 526.3031.

• Free one-on-one technology help is offered every Tuesday and Thursday morning at Hudson Library in Highlands. Call 526.3031 to make an appointment.

ART SHOWINGS AND GALLERIES • “Recent Work” Craig Forrest, Cullowhee watercolorist, will present a 15 piece collection of new works at It’s By Nature gallery in downtown Sylva. Show will run throughout the month of December. 678 West Main Street, Sylva.

631.3020 or itsbynature.com/upcomingevents • A three-month ceramics exhibit at the Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum is currently in Cullowhee. Fineartmuseum.wcu.edu or 227.3591.

• “Contemporary Clay,” curated by Heather Mae Erickson, is an exhibition that examines the evolving, expanded field of clay and ceramics. It will run through Dec. 16 in the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University. www.wcu.edu.

• The exhibit “Emissaries of Peace: 1762 Cherokee & British Delegations” features Cherokee clothing, feather capes, beads, and other artifacts. It is currently on display at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and also available for travel. www.cherokeemuseum.org or bduncan@cherokeemuseum.org.

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for: ■ Complete listings of local music scene ■ Regional festivals ■ Art gallery events and openings ■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers ■ Civic and social club gatherings sculptor Nelson Nichols (www.nicholssculpture.com) will be displayed at this event. Executed in stone, bronze, and wood, Nichols’ sculptural body of work reflects his unique style, Spiritual Expressionism, encompassing anatomical/figurative pieces in classical realism, a series of abstract interpretations, a series illustrating universal/spiritual concepts, and an environmentally inspired series including sculptures of endangered/threatened species. Admission is by donation; $7 is suggested. arts4all@dnet.net or 524.ARTS (2787).

• Cullowhee watercolorist Craig Forrest will showcase a 15-piece collection of new works throughout the month of December at the It’s By Nature gallery in downtown Sylva. 828.631.3020 or www.itsbynature.com/upcomingevents.

December 14-20, 2016

• Artist Melba Cooper will be exhibiting her stunning series of paintings, “POLLINATION,” at Cullowhee Mountain Arts’ (CMA) Studio in downtown Sylva. www.cullowheemountainarts.org/up-in-the-studioevents or 342.6913.

• A showcase on the life and times of Horace Kephart will be on display through March 31 in the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University. The Mountain Heritage Center’s Kephart Collection is composed of 127 objects, including Kephart’s tent, sleeping bag, backpack and the writing desk. The exhibit will display many of these objects in a campsite setting. 227.7129.

• The “Photography of Bayard Wootten” exhibit is on display through Nov. 23 in the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.

• An exhibition entitled “This is a Photograph: Exploring Contemporary Applications of Photographic Chemistry” is on display at Penland School of Crafts near Spruce Pine. 765.6211 or penland.org/gallery.

• The Haywood County Arts Council’s exhibit entitled “It’s a Small, Small Work” is on display through Dec. 24 at 86 N. Main Street in Waynesville. Sixty artists and nearly 200 individual works of art for sale. www.HaywoodArts.org.

• New artist and medium will be featured every month at the Haywood County Senior Resource Center in Waynesville. 356.2800.

Smoky Mountain News

• As part of the Arts Council’s Integrated Arts initiative, a sampling of works by renowned Macon County

• A Fly Rod Building class will be presented by Tommy Thomas, former president of the National Chapter of Trout Unlimited, from 7-9 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from through Dec. 15 at Haywood Community College. Register: 565.4240.

• A “Discover the Smokies” program, presented Friends of the Smokies, will be held from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at REI in Asheville. Friends of the Smokies will cover the programs, hikes and camping excursions planned for engaging and educating communities surrounding America’s most visited national park. Registration required: www.rei.com/learn.html.

• The Franklin Bird Club’s Christmas Bird Count will be held from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14. Club will divide into five teams then reconvene at 5 p.m. at Lazy Hiker Brewing. Sign up: rstcl10609@aol.com.

• Blue Ridge Parkway is seeking public comment about a proposed policy for allowing only heat-treated, bundled and sealed firewood. Comment is accepted through Jan. 7 at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/blriheattreatedwood.

Custom Christmas Card & Calendar Special 5 1/2“ x 4 1/4” folded • Color both sides Comes with blank envelopes (Bring in 1 or 2 of your favorite photos or artwork)

Check out our new website 50

Outdoors

Since 1982

50 cards $79.95 100 cards $99.95 Calendar Special $14.95 ea

(12 or 13 of your favorite photos)

641 North Main St. • Waynesville, NC

509 Asheville Hwy., Suite B • Sylva, NC

828.456.HAUS (4287)

828.586.HAUS (4287)

(3/10 Mile North of the Courthouse)

(Located in the NAPA Auto Parts Center)

• The Highlands Plateau Audubon Society will start its count at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, at the KelseyHutchinson Founders Park in Highlands. Chili lunch from noon-3 p.m. at Hudson Library. Sign up: brockhutchins@bellsouth.net.

• The Great Smoky Mountains Christmas Bird Count will be held Saturday, Dec. 17, starting from the Gatlinburg area. Sign up with Warren Bielenberg: web9272@msn.com.

• The Highlands Plateau Greenway is seeking volunteers for a work day from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Dec. 17, in Highlands. If interested, notify Ron Shaffner at highlandsgreenway@nctv.com or 482.1451.

• “After the Wildfires: Mitigating Climate Change and Adapting to the New Normal” – a presentation by Jim Fox and Josh Kelly – is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, at the Climate Collider on the fourth floor of the Wells Fargo Building in Asheville. Fox is director of UNC Asheville’s National Environmental Modeling and Analysis Center; Kelly is public lands field biologist at MountainTrue. RSVP: http://action.mountaintrue.org/page/s/after-the-fires • The Balsam Christmas Bird Count will be held from approximately 7 a.m.-dusk on Friday, Dec. 30. The area will be divided into four sections, with each section leader designating a starting place and time.

Participants will meet at Bocelli’s for dinner afterward.

Sign up: ddihen1@bellsouth.net. www.audubon.org/conservation/science/christmasbird-count.

• Registration is underway for ski/snowboard lessons at the Cataloochee Ski Resort. For ages 8-up. Sundays for five weeks: Jan. 8, 22, 29, Feb. 5 and 12. Lesson is from 1:30-3 p.m.; lift ticket valid from 12:30-4:30 p.m.

Lift only: $109; lift and lesson: $135. 293.2053 or www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• The Tuckaseigee River Chapter No. 373 of Trout Unlimited meets at 6:30 p.m. on first Tuesday of each month from September through May at United Community Bank in Sylva. Dinner is $5.

• The Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians has moved to Bryson City and is open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Monday through Saturday.

FlyFishingMuseum.org.

FARM AND GARDEN • Local farmers can stop by the Cooperative Extension Office on Acquoni Road from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every fourth Friday to learn about USDA Farm Service Agency programs in the 2014 Farm Bill. Info: 488.2684, ext. 2 (Wednesday through Friday) or 524.3175, ext. 2 (Monday through Wednesday).

• The Macon County Poultry Club of Franklin meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cooperative Extension Office on Thomas Heights Rd, Open to the public. 369.3916.

• A community tailgate market for local growers is open from 3-7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Village

Green Commons in Cashiers. 734.3434, info@villagegreencashiersnc.com or www.villagegreencashiersnc.com.

• The Jackson County Farmers Market will be held 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays at the Community Table building on Central Street in Sylva until outdoor hours resume at Bridge Park in March. The market will be held weekly through Dec. 17 and then be held one weekend each in January and February. Info: 393.5236. jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

COMPETITIVE EDGE • Registration is underway for the Run 2017 5K Run & Walk, which is Jan. 1 at the Jackson County Recreation Center in Cullowhee. 293.2053 or www.rec.jacksonnc.org

HIKING CLUBS • The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a 6.5-mile, moderate-to-strenuous hike with an elevation change of 1,000 feet on Saturday, Dec. 17, to Trimont Ridge on the Bartram Trail. Reservations: 772.263.3478 or 970.692.3865.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a 5.5-mile moderate hike with an elevation change of 600 feet on Saturday, Dec. 17, on Park Ridge to Park Creek Loop.

Reservations: 524.5298.

• Carolina Mountain Club will have a four-mile hike with an 800-foot ascent on Dec. 18 at Daniel Ridge Loop. Info and reservations: 384.4870 or stuengo@citcom.com.

• Carolina Mountain Club will have a 10.7-mile hike with a 1,450-foot elevation gain on Dec. 25. For info and reservations, contact leader Eva Blinder at 275.6447.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a six-mile moderate hike with a 900-foot elevation change on Saturday, Dec. 31, to William’s Pulpit on the Bartram Trail. Info and reservations: Call leader Kathy Ratcliff at 349.3380.

OUTDOOR CLUBS • The Jackson County Poultry Club will hold its regular meeting on the third Thursday of each month at the Jackson County Cooperative Extension Office. The club is for adults and children and includes a monthly meeting with a program and a support network for those raising birds. For info, call 586.4009 or write heather_gordon@ncsu.edu.

• An RV camping club, the Vagabonds, camps one weekend per month from April through November. All ages welcome. No dues or structured activities. For details, write lilnau@aol.com or call 369.6669.

• The Cataloochee Chapter of Trout Unlimited meets the second Tuesday of the month starting with a dinner at 6:30 p.m. at Rendezvous restaurant located on the corner of Jonathan Creek Road and Soco Road in Maggie Valley. 631.5543.

Puzzles can be found on page 54.

These are only the answers.

PRIME REAL ESTATE Advertise in The Smoky Mountain News

AUCTION

MarketPlace information: The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 every week to over 500 locations across in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties along with the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. For a link to our MarketPlace Web site, which also contains a link to all of our MarketPlace display advertisers’ Web sites, visit www.smokymountainnews.com.

Rates:

■ Free — Lost or found pet ads.

■ $5 — Residential yard sale ads, ■ $5 — Non-business items that sell for less than $150.

■ $15 — Classified ads that are 50 words or less; each additional line is $2.

If your ad is 10 words or less, it will be displayed with a larger type.

■ $3 — Border around ad and $5 — Picture with ad or colored background.

■ $50 — Non-business items, 25 words or less. 3 month or till sold.

■ $300 — Statewide classifieds run in 117 participating newspapers with 1.6 million circulation. Up to 25 words.

■ All classified ads must be pre-paid.

Classified Advertising: Scott Collier, phone 828.452.4251; fax 828.452.3585 classads@smokymountainnews.com

Great Smokies Storage 10’x20’

92

$

20’x20’

160

$

ONE MONTH

FREE WITH 12-MONTH CONTRACT

828.506.4112 or 828.507.8828 Conveniently located off 19/23 by Thad Woods Auction

22nd ANNUAL AUCTION Const - Truck - Farm - Tues. Dec. 27 @ 8am Lumberton, NC 100's Electrical Supplies @ 8:30am www.meekinsauction.com NCLN 858 10% BP FIREARMS AUCTION Sporting, Hunting, Self-Defense Handguns, Rifles& Shotguns. Wide Selection, Excellent condition& New-In-Box. ONLINE ONLY AUCTION - Bidding ENDS DECEMBER 15th - Bid NOW at www.HouseAuctionCompany.com 252.729.1162, NCAL#7889 22ND ANNUAL CONST Truck - Farm Auction Tues. Dec. 27 @ 8am Lumberton, NC 100's Electrical Supplies @ 8:30am www.meekinsauction.com NCLN 858 10% BP ABSOLUTE AUCTION Sat. Dec. 17 @ 9am Lumberton, NC. Pate Sheet Metal www.meekinsauction.com NCLN 858 10% BP AUCTION, Online w/Bid Center, Roxboro Country Club - Complete Operational Golf & Swim Club, Roxboro, NC - Person County, Begins Closing December 14th at 2pm, Bid Center On Site at 260 Club House Dr., Roxboro, NC, Iron Horse Auction Company, Inc., 800.997.2248 ronhorseauction.com, NCAL3936

CONSTRUCTION/ REMODELING FOR SALE: HEATILATOR I-60 Wood Burning Fireplace, for Built In Applications, Large Firebox Opening, with 30ft. Chimney.

New in Original Packaging, $600 For More Information Call 828.696.5039.

ALL THINGS BASEMENTY! Basement Systems Inc. Call us for all of your basement needs! Waterproofing, Finishing, Structural Repairs, Humidity and Mold Control.

FREE ESTIMATES! Call 1.800.698.9217

CONSTRUCTION/ REMODELING BATHTUB REFINISHING Renew or change the color of your bathtub, tile or sink. Fiberglass repair specialists! 5 year warranty.

Locally owned since 1989. CarolinasTubDoctor.com. 888.988.4430.

HAYWOOD BUILDERS Garage Doors, New Installations Service & Repairs, 828.456.6051 100 Charles St. Waynesville Employee Owned.

MOTORCYCLES

DAVE’S CUSTOM HOMES OF WNC, INC Free Estimates & Competitive rates. References avail. upon request. Specializing in: Log Homes, remodeling, decks, new construction, repairs & additions.

Owner/Builder: Dave Donaldson.

Licensed/Insured.

828.631.0747

CRAZY BOB’S BIKER STUFF Jackets, Chaps, Vests, Helmets, Rain Gear, Saddlebags, Sissy Bar Bags, Tool Bags, Stickers, Patches. We also got you covered with 50 Sizes of Tarps: Heavy Duty Silver, Brown & Green, Blue & Silver, Blue & Camo.

1880 Dellwood Rd., Waynesville 828.926.1177

SAFE STEP WALK-IN TUB: Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door.

Anti-Slip Floors. American Made.

Installation Included. Call Now 800.701.9850 to receive $750 Off.

A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR For Breast Cancer! Help United Breast Foundation Education, Prevention, & Support Programs. Fast Free Pickup - 24 Hr Response - Tax Deduction 855.306.7348 SAPA

FROG POND ESTATE SALES HELPING IN HARD TIMES

DOWNSIZING ESTATE SALES CLEAN OUT SERVICE • COMPANY TRANSFER • DIVORCE • LOST LOVED ONE WE ARE KNOWN FOR HONESTY & INTEGRITY 828-734-3874 18 COMMERCE STREET WAYNESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA 28786 WWW.FROGLEVELDOWNSIZING.COM

CARS -

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!!

Top Dollar! Free Towing From Home, Office or body Shop. All Makes/Models 2000-2016. Same Day Pick-Up Available! Call Now: 1.800.761.9396 SAPA HIGH RISK DRIVER? Had a DUI? Stop paying too much for R-22, FR-44, or similar HighRisk Car Insurance! Call our FREE hotline today & SAVE money!

888.591.1852 STOP PAYING FOR Expensive Auto Repairs! Get discounted warranty coverage from the wholesale source, and don’t pay for expensive covered repairs!

Start saving now! Call 844.274.6148 SAPA

WNC MarketPlace

BUSINESS FOR SALE BUSINESS FOR SALE Established Drop-In Childcare Center for Sale. Located by Harrah’s Casino. For more info call 828.497.6868 ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS Job Opening, Event, Items For Sale, Auction etc. in this newspaper plus 100 other newspapers across the state for only $375. For more info, contact the classified department of this newspaper or email: ads@ncpress.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ATTENTION FACEBOOK & TWITTER Users! Earn 3K+ per month for just using what you already use for free! For details follow this link: tinyurl.com/MoneyOnSocialMedia BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! Publications sold at all major secular & specialty Christian bookstores. CALL Christian Faith Publishing Now for your FREE author submission kit.

1.800.914.0159

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSING DIRECTOR A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Business or Related Field is Preferred. This Position is Responsible for Overseeing the Administration and Day to Day Operations of All Housing Programs and Grants Including Section 8 Rental Assistance and Housing Rehab. Supervision and Budget Experience is Required.

Knowledge of Construction is Preferred. Position Requires Flexible Work Hours, Public Speaking, Local and Out of Area Travel.

Applications Will be Taken at Mountain Projects, Inc., 2251 Old Balsam Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786. Or You May Go To Website www.mountainprojects.org EOE/AA AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING Get FAA Certification. Approved For Military Benefits. Financial Aid If Qualified. Job Placement Assistance. Call Aviation Institute Of Maintenance 1.866.724.5403 SAPA

December 14-20, 2016

CHROME A YOUNG BOY KITTY, NOT EVEN A YEAR OLD YET. HE IS A BEAUTIFUL SILVER TABBY. BEST OF ALL IS HIS PERSONALITY--HE IS A FRIENDLY, CONFIDENT AND SWEET CAT, SURE TO BE A WONDERFUL FELINE FRIEND TO HIS LUCKY ADOPTER. KAVIK - A GORGEOUS SOLID WHITE SIBERIAN HUSKY BOY, ABOUT 1-1/2 YEARS OLD. HE IS STILL VERY MUCH A PUPPY--A COMICAL GOOFY DOG THAT MAKES US ALL LAUGH. OUR WISH FOR KAVIK IS A "HUSKYSAVVY" HOME, WITH PEOPLE WHO KNOW THE BREED'S QUIRKS AND BE PREPARED TO DEAL WITH THEM.

BROOKE PARROTT BROKER ASSOCIATE 828.734.2146 bparrott@beverly-hanks.com Visit beverly-hanks.com/agents/bparrott

www.smokymountainnews.com

to see what others are saying!

NUCLEAR POWER TRAINEE Paid Training, great salary, benefits, $ for school. Gain value skills.

No exp needed. medical/dental, vacation. HS grads ages 17-34. Call Mon-Fri 800.662.7419 B.H. GRANING LANDSCAPES, INC Now hiring for the position of crew member - the grass is growing and so is our business come join our team. Full-time year round work, competitive wages, good work environment.

Please call 828.586.8303 for more info or email resume to: roger.murajda@bhlandscapes. com DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a driver for Stevens Transport! No Experience Needed!

New drivers earn $800+ per week!

PAID CDL TRAINING! Stevens covers all costs! 1.888.748.4137 drive4stevens.com ENTRY LEVEL Heavy Equipment Operator Career.

Get Trained - Get Certified - Get Hired! Bulldozers, Backhoes & Excavators. Immediate Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits.

1.866.362.6497 U.S. NAVY IS HIRING Elite tech training withgreat pay, benefits, vacation, $ for school. HS grads ages 17-34. Call Mon.-Fri. 800.662.7419

Michelle McElroy RESIDENTIAL BROKER ASSOCIATE E-PRO, CNHS, RCC, SFR

828.400.9463 Cell

DRIVE WITH UBER. No experience is required, but you'll need a Smartphone. It's fun and easy. For more information, call: 1.800.655.7452

PEER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS Meridian is seeking Peer Support Specialists to work within a number of recovery oriented programs within our agency. Being a Peer Support Specialist provides an opportunity for individuals to transform their own personal lived experience with mental health and/or addiction challenges into a tool for inspiring hope for recovery in others. Applicants must demonstrate maturity in their own recovery process, have a HS Diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and have moderate computer skills. If you are seeking some basic information about the role of Peer Support Specialists within the public behavioral health system, please go to NC Peer Support Specialist Certification Site: http://pss.unc.edu/ You do not have to be a certified peer support specialist prior to employment. For further information about these positions, visit the employment section of our website at: www.meridianbhs.org If interested, apply by completing the mini application and submitting your resume.

FINANCIAL BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

SAPA SOCIAL SECURITY Disability Benefits. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1.800.670.4805 to start your application today!

FURNITURE COMPARE QUALITY & PRICE Shop Tupelo’s, 828.926.8778.

HAYWOOD BEDDING, INC. The best bedding at the best price!

533 Hazelwood Ave. Waynesville 828.456.4240

PETS HAYWOOD SPAY/NEUTER 828.452.1329

Prevent Unwanted Litters!

The Heat Is On! Spay/Neuter For Haywood Pets As Low As $10.

Operation Pit is in Effect!

Free Spay/Neuter, Microchip & Vaccines For Haywood Pitbull Types & Mixes!

Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 12 Noon - 6 pm 182 Richland Street, Waynesville

SPORTSMAN LOG CABINS 8 MODELS 828-361-3232

michelle@beverly-hanks.com

74 North Main St. • Waynesville 828.452.5809 375-07

ROB ROLAND 828-400-1923

SFR, ECO, GREEN

RROLAND33@GMAIL.COM

Find the home you are looking for at www.robrolandrealty.com 52

IN-HOME AIDE Must have a High School Diploma/GED, Valid NC Driver’s License, Available Transportation, Effective Oral Communication & Skills. Flexible Hours M-F, up to 15hrs. a Week. Duties Include Assisting Elderly in Their Home w/ Light Housekeeping and Errands. Applications Will be Taken at Mountain Projects, Inc., 2251 Old Balsam Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786, or You May go to our Website: www.mountainprojects.org EOE/AA

EMPLOYMENT

MEDICAL BILLING & CODING Trainees! Process Insurance claims for Dr's & Hospitals!! No Experience Needed! Online Training can get you job ready!

1.888.512.7122 HS Diploma/GED & Computer needed. careertechnical.edu/nc

Residential · Land · Commercial

The Real Team

JOLENE HOCOTT • LYN DONLEY MARLYN DICKINSON

Real Experience.

Real Service. Real Results.

147 Walnut Street • WayneSville

828.452.3727

828.506.7137

www.The-Real-Team.com

www.amyspivey.com

MOUNTAIN REALTY

aspivey@sunburstrealty.com

1904 S. Main St. • Waynesville

REAL ESTATE ANNOUNCEMENT

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised on equal opportunity basis.

SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your Mortgage? Denied a Loan Modification?

Is the bank threatening foreclosure? Call Homeowner’s Relief Line now for Help 844.359.4330 SAPA OUR HUNTERS WILL PAY Top $$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1.866.309.1507 www.BaseCampLeasing.com

MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE REPOSSESSED MOBILE HOMES. Move in ready. No rent option, but buying could be cheaper than rent!

Owner financing on select homes with approved credit.

336.790.0162

Haywood County Real Estate Agents Beverly Hanks & Associates

——————————————

GEORGE

ESCARAVAGE BROKER/REALTOR

—————————————— 7 BEAVERDAM ROAD - SUITE 207

ASHEVILLE, NC 28804

828.400.0901

GESCAR@BEVERLY-HANKS.COM

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Carolyn Lauter Broker/ABR 1986 SOCO ROAD, HWY 19 • MAGGIE VALLEY, NC 28751

828.734.4822 Cell • www.carolynlauter.com carolyn.lauter@realtyworldheritage.com

Taake akkee thhe the Viirtual Vi rt rtu tuual Toour To ur! u

$3889, $$3 9,900 , 0

MLS# M LS 332012 20122557

Above A bbo vve M Maggie aggie V Va Valley l le y C Country o u n t r y Club C lu b 2 D/2 A 2BD/2BA 1904 90 4 Sqq F Ftt - 2.

2.45 4 Acres A r

Bruce B rLLocally uoca ce Own McGovern M cGOpe oper vatetedeedrn occaally Ow Owned wne ned ed & Op Operated pera rat mcg m c g o ve v ernproper r p ro pe rn p rrtt y m mgt@gmail.com gt@gmail om

8288-4452-1519 1519

NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS MOUNTAIN REALTY

Section 8 Accepted - Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

OFFICE HOURS: Monday & Wednesday 8:00am - 4:00pm 168 E. Nicol Arms Road Sylva, NC 28779

Phone# 1.828.273.3639 TDD# 1.800.735.2962 This is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

EXP Realty

Mieko Thomson ROKER/R /REALTOR EALTOR®® BBROKER

Cell (828) 226-2298 Cell

mthomson@remax-waynesvillenc.com mthomson@remax-waynesvillenc.com www.ncsmokies.com www.ncsmokies.com

2177 Russ Avenue Waynesville NC 28786

find us at: facebook.com/smnews

Keller Williams Realty kellerwilliamswaynesville.com • Julie Lapkoff - julielapkoff.yourkwagent.com • Yvonne Kolomechuk - yvonneksells.yourkwagent.com

Lakeshore Realty • Phyllis Robinson - lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

Mountain Home Properties mountaindream.com • Sammie Powell - smokiesproperty.com

McGovern Real Estate & Property Management • Bruce McGovern - shamrock13.com

Realty World Heritage Realty realtyworldheritage.com • Carolyn Lauter realtyworldheritage.com/realestate/viewagent/7766 • Martha Sawyer realtyworldheritage.com/realestate/viewagent/7769

RE/MAX — Mountain Realty • • • • • •

remax-waynesvillenc.com | remax-maggievalleync.com Brian K. Noland - brianknoland.com Mieko Thomson - ncsmokies.com The Morris Team - maggievalleyproperty.com The Real Team - the-real-team.com Ron Breese - ronbreese.com Dan Womack - womackdan@aol.com

smokymountainnews.com

sshamrock13.com ha rock13 co

Offering 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $400

ERA Sunburst Realty - sunburstrealty.com • Amy Spivey - amyspivey.com • Rick Boarder - sunburstrealty.com

Haywood Properties - haywoodproperties.com • Steve Cox - info@haywoodproperties.com

OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday 12:30pm - 4:00pm & Friday. 8:00am- 4:00pm 50 Duckett Cove Road, Waynesville

Equal Housing Opportunity

Catherine Proben - cproben@beverly-hanks.com Ellen Sither - EllenSither@beverly-hanks.com Mike Stamey - MikeStamey@beverly-hanks.com Pamela Williams - PamelaWilliams@beverly-hanks.com

• Rob Roland - rroland33@gmail.com

Handicapped Accessible Units When Available

Phone # 1-828-456-6776 TDD # 1-800-725-2962

• • • •

• George Escaravage - george@emersongroupus.com

Commitment, consistency, results.

Offering 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments, Starting at $400 Section 8 Accepted - Rental Assistance When Available -

beverly-hanks.com Ann Eavenson - AnnEavenson@beverly-hanks.com Randy Flanigan - RandyFlanigan@beverly-hanks.com Michelle McElroy - MichelleMcElroy@beverly-hanks.com Marilynn Obrig - MarilynnObrig@beverly-hanks.com Brooke Parrott - BrookeParrott@beverly-hanks.com

December 14-20, 2016

CAVALIER ARMS APARTMENTS

• • • • •

Emerson Group

BEVERLY-HANKS.COM

COMM. PROP. FOR RENT PROFESSIONAL MEETING SPACE Located in Waynesville, Holds up to 90 People. Suitable for Seminars, Parties, Family Gatherings, Worship, Ect. Kitchen Area, Wifi/ Screen. For More Information and Rates for ROOM 1902 Call 828.454.7445 or 828.551.8960

WNC MarketPlace

LEASE TO OWN 1/2 Acre Lots with Mobile Homes & Empty 1/2 Acre + Lots!

Located Next to Cherokee Indian Reservation, 2.5 Miles from Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.

For More Information Please Call 828.506.0578

HOMES FOR SALE BRUCE MCGOVERN A Full Service Realtor, Locally Owned and Operated mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com McGovern Property Management 828.283.2112.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE 828.452.4251 | ads@smokymountainnews.com 53

www.smokymountainnews.com

December 14-20, 2016

WNC MarketPlace

Super

54

CROSSWORD

UNSPOKEN BEVERAGE OF CHOICE ACROSS 1 Out on — (in potential danger) 6 “I’m just sayin’,” in a text 10 Letters after chis 14 Apple variety 18 — de Mayo 19 Indian melodies 21 “Don’t say it!”

22 Famed flood figure 23 Challenges 24 School, in France 25 Card game for one 27 Start of a riddle 30 Popular Eli Lilly brand 31 Sacred vow 32 Tidies 33 Riddle, part 2 38 Fit — bill 39 Sodium hydroxide, chemically 40 Lean- — (shacks) 41 Octet count 46 “You Got It” singer Bonnie 49 Ghostly spirit 52 Trivial lies 53 Riddle, part 3 58 Cozy spot 59 Publishes 60 Morales of Hollywood 61 Citrate, e.g.

63 Burrito topper 64 Riddle, part 4 68 Like a king 71 Pupa-to-be 73 Microwave, informally 74 Islamic holy city

75 Turn liquid 77 Riddle, part 5 82 “— Lama Ding Dong” (1961 hit) 83 Like a scornful villain’s face 84 “Fuer —” (piano classic) 85 Annual sports awards 87 TV actress Arthur 88 Roosevelt’s terrier 90 — West (life jacket) 93 End of the riddle 100 Devotee 104 Tombstone lawman 105 Theater area 106 Riddle’s answer 111 Sent by plane, as a letter 112 Ghostly 113 Pop singer Lopez 115 Word after a noun, often 116 Snow glider 117 “Fear Street” author R.L. — 118 Perfect spots 119 Big ice cream brand 120 Old fast jets, for short 121 Finger sound 122 TV “explorer” and others DOWN 1 Have a role on stage 2 Depend upon, as a decision 3 Physically fit 4 “Blind Willie —” (Bob Dylan song) 5 Partner of

Herzegovina 6 At no charge 7 1993 siege site in Texas 8 1952 Walt Kelly comic strip collection 9 “The Misfits” actor Eli 10 Swank 11 “Flee, fly!”

12 Off the coast 13 Evening do 14 Out of place 15 Silk pattern 16 RBI king Hank 17 The mating game?

20 Catches sight of, biblically 26 Josh 28 —Ops (CIA mind games) 29 “— ya up to?”

30 Curious pet 34 See 70-Down 35 “Taboo” cable chan.

36 Copy a tiger 37 “Keep dreaming!”

42 Assuming it’s necessary 43 Fashion’s Armani 44 “Veep” cable channel 45 “Tut” relative 46 Flees 47 Perfume from flower petals 48 “— my fault” 49 Singer Houston 50 Stocking tips 51 168 in a wk.

53 Car navig. aid 54 Man-mouse link 55 Old indoor light source

56 “Go back” PC key 57 “... we’ll — a cup o’ kindness ...”: Burns 62 Deuce beaters 64 Lyricist Sammy 65 Neighbor of Switz.

66 34th prez 67 Lowest tier of a parking garage, perhaps 69 “Further ...”

70 With 34-Down, chew out 72 Beetles, e.g., briefly 74 CAT scan relative 75 Three, in Milan 76 — -been 78 “Judge not, lest — judged” 79 Roe, e.g.

80 Spouts forth 81 Biblical kingdom 86 “Yes and no” 88 Mink cousins 89 Pain-relief pill 90 More clouded 91 Insect feeler 92 Conceit 94 Careless 95 Boring tools 96 Devil’s place 97 Notable time 98 Leaning 99 Afro, e.g.

100 Tequila plant 101 Dehydrated 102 Cheerful 103 Feet, in verse 107 Cross paths 108 Roush and Byrnes 109 Singer Simone 110 Don’t discard 114 Mag. printing

answers on page 50

STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE FOR YOU 1 Month Free with 12 Month Rental. Maggie Valley, Hwy. 19, 1106 Soco Rd. For more information call Torry

828.734.6500, 828.734.6700 maggievalleyselfstorage.com 12X28 STORAGE UNIT FOR RENT In Tuckaseegee, Half Mile Down Highway 281. $130/mo.

For More Information Call 828.450.0534.

GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE Conveniently located off 19/23

by Thad Woods Auction. Available for lease now: 10’x10’ units for $55, 20’x20’ units for $160.

Get one month FREE with 12 month contract. Call 828.507.8828 or 828.506.4112 for more info.

LAWN AND GARDEN HEMLOCK HEALERS, INC. Dedicated to Saving Our Hemlocks. Owner/Operator Frank Varvoutis, NC Pesticide Applicator’s License #22864. 48 Spruce St. Maggie Valley, NC 828.734.7819 828.926.7883, Email: hemlockhealers@yahoo.com

LAWN AND GARDEN BORING/CARPENTER BEE TRAPS No Chemicals, Poisons or Anything to Harm the Environment.

Handmade in Haywood County. 1 for $20, 2 or More for $15 each.

828.593.8321

MEDICAL A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation's largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is Free/no obligation. Call 1.800.717.0139 LIFE ALERT. 24/7. One press of a button sends help FAST! Medical, Fire, Burglar.

Even if you can’t reach a phone!

Free Brochure. Call 800.734.2638 LUNG CANCER? And Age 60+? You And Your Family May Be Entitled To Significant Cash Award. Call 1.866.590.3140 for Information. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket.

STRUGGLING WITH DRUGS Or Alcohol? Addicted to Pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 1.800.511.6075.

STOP OVERPAYING For your prescriptions! SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy,compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1.800.265.0768 Promo Code CDC2016251.

SAPA

SERVICES DIRECTV. NFL Sunday Ticket (FREE!) w/ Choice All-Included Package. $60/mo for 24 months. No upfront costs or equipment to buy. Ask about next day installation!

800.371.5352 SAPA DISH TV – BEST DEAL EVER! Only $39.99/mo. Plus $14.99/mo Internet (where avail.) FREE Streaming. Free Install (up to 6 rooms) Free DVR. 800.351.0850 EXEDE HIGH SPEED INTERNET. Plans from $39/mo. Blazing Fast Broadband in areas cable can’t reach. Great for business or home.

We Install Fast. 1.888.822.0480.

FAST INTERNET! HughesNet Satellite Internet. HighSpeed. Avail Anywhere. Speeds to 15 mbps. Starting at $59.99/mo.

Call for Limited Time Price.

1.800.916.7609 NEW AT&T INTERNET OFFER. $20 and $30/mo plans available when you bundle. 99% Reliable 100% Affordable. HURRY, OFFER ENDS SOON. New Customers Only.

CALL NOW 1.800.950.1469 SAVE ON INTERNET And TV bundles! Order the best exclusive cable and satellite deals in your area! If eligible, get up to $300 in Visa Gift Cards. Call Now! 1.800.791.0713 VIAGRA & CIALIS USERS! Cut your drug costs! SAVE $$! 50 Pills for $99.00. FREE Shipping!

100% Guaranteed and Discreet.

Call 1.800.290.0314 SAPA

WEEKLY SUDOKU Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

Answers on Page 50

A new, excitable girl in our quiet cove

E

George Ellison

ssays and columns are difficult to categorize. Dividing them into the formal and informal is about all anyone can agree upon, if that. In retrospect, I can see that this one is a fine example of a type within the informal category I think of as the “ramblin’ disquisition;” in other words, it doesn’t have a central theme (except that, for the most part, it’s about birds); and it wanders around … here Columnist and there … getting nowhere much until it ends of its own volition. You’ll see what I mean.

Birds are good weather forecasters. Have you ever noticed how active they become at feeders just before big fronts (especially snowstorms) move through the area? I don’t know the exact explanation behind this awareness, but they are certainly finely tuned in regard to weather and related conditions. Those that migrate do so according to seasonal variations. They depend on prevailing winds and use the stars to a certain extent for navigation.

A lot of my time is spent watching birds in the wild or from the house. There are feeders outside most of the windows (except

BACK THEN for the bathroom) so as I move from office to living room to kitchen and back again, I can check them out.

While my wife is in town at her studiogallery, I’m in charge of bird watching and reporting interesting sightings when she comes home. I should say that “I used to be in charge.” But in recent weeks I’ve been challenged for that honor by a six-monthold, 35-pound old German short-haired pointer named Lina-blue (short for Carolina Blue) that has just about taken over.

We’ve had maybe 10 shorthairs through the years. But we’ve never had one that rivaled Lina when it comes to being fixated on birds. “Fixated” isn’t an adequate description. All short-hairs are “fixated” on birds; they are, after all, “bird dogs.” Lina is “obsessed” with birds. She becomes downright “maniacal” when she spots one or more through the kitchen window, hunkering down on the table with her whole body quivering so rapidly the dinner ware in the cupboard starts rattling. The best view of the feeders is from my chair next to one of the windows, which she is trying to appropriate.

We’ll see who wins.

We live in a small secluded cove that’s wooded except for a pasture and yard. It’s not a prime area for birds. In winter we hardly ever see evening grosbeaks, red-

Lina-blue. breasted nuthatches, brown creepers, purple finches, etc. But we take what we can get, and the birds that do live with us have become an important part of our lives: juncos, American goldfinches, white-throated and song sparrows, rufous-sided towhees, and cardinals are the most common species at or near our feeding stations.

Carolina wrens sometimes visit a feeder or peck at suet.

Downy woodpeckers, golden-crowned kinglets, and blackcapped chickadees are active in the surrounding woods.

Winter wrens dart like mice under the house and through the woodpile.

Crows check out the barn area for horse feed whenever they think we’re not around.

Phoebes hawk insects from a fence line.

Fox sparrows like a seepage area near our spring where they scratch, like a towhee, with both feet at the same time for insects.

And from time-to-time, when we’re least expecting it a Cooper’s hawk swoops by like some sort of phantom looking for a free lunch.

White-throated sparrows have just arrived from their breeding grounds in New England and Canada. There are two types you can readily observe around feeders. One has white stripes while the other has tan stripes. These variants are called color morphs by ornithologists. Experiments have established that white-striped males don’t like females who sing, as do white-striped females. So, white-striped males generally mate with tan-striped, silent females. Tanstriped males, who are not as aggressive as white-striped males, are left with the vocal white-stripe females.

There’s no doubt some sort of lesson one could extract from all of this, but for the life of me I can’t think what it might be. And so this seems to be as good a place as any to stop.

(George Ellison is a naturalist and writer.

He can be reached at info@georgeellison.com.)

December 14-20, 2016 Smoky Mountain News 55

2017 Ford FusionSE with Tech Package & SYNC & Sound Get up to $2,740 In Total Savings On Specially Tagged Vehicles +$1,000 Owner Loyalty

2017 Ford Escape 0% APR for 72 mos.

Ford Credit Financing December 14-20, 2016

+ $1,000 Ford Smart Bonus on specially tagged vehicles

2016 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew 2.7L V6 EcoBoost with Luxury Chrome or Sport Pkg.

Smoky Mountain News

Get up to $11,344 In Total Savings On Specially Tagged Vehicles + $500 Ford Credit Bonus Cash

I-40 EXIT 31, CANTON, NC

828-648-2313 1-800-532-4631

www.kwford.com kenwilsonford@kwford.com $750 Customer Cash (PGM #12966) + $1,000 Ford Smart Bonus Cash (PGM #35806) + $500 Fusion SE Tech Discount Pkg. (PGM #97480) + $490 SYNC & Sound Discount Pkg. (PGM #97482) + $1,000 Owner Loyalty (PGM #35794). Owner Loyalty available to customers who currently own or lease a 1995 or newer Ford/Mercury vehicle. Trade-in or lease termination not required. Not available on Fusion Hybrid & Energi. Supply of vehicles with Ford SmartBonus is limited. See dealer or go to buyfordnow.com to find specially tagged vehicles. For all offers, take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/3/17. See dealer for qualifications and complete details. $1,000 Ford Smart Bonus Cash (PGM #35806). Not all buyers will qualify for Ford Credit financing. 0% APR financing for 72 months at $13.89 per month per $1,000 financed regardless of down payment (PGM #20764).

Supply of vehicles with Ford SmartBonus is limited. See dealer or go to buyfordnow.com to find specially tagged vehicles. Residency restrictions apply. For all offers, take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/3/17. See dealer for qualifications and complete details. $2,250 Customer Cash (PGM #12966) + $2,500 Bonus Cash (PGM #12980, #12970) + $1,000 Ford Smart Bonus Cash (PGM #35806) + $300 2.7L V6 EcoBoost Bonus Cash (PGM #12920) + $2,000 302A XLT Luxury Chrome or Sport National Discount Package (PGM #97448) + $3,294 Average Dealer Discount + $500 Ford Credit Bonus Cash (PGM #12968) which requires Ford Credit financing. Not all buyers will qualify for Ford Credit financing. Average dealer discount based on a sales survey of average discounts offered by Ford dealers regionally. Discount may vary; dealer determines price. Residency restrictions apply. Supply of vehicles with Ford SmartBonus is limited. See dealer or go to buyfordnow.com to find specially tagged vehicles. For all offers, take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/3/17. See dealer for qualifications and complete details.

56