Smoky Mountain News | August 28, 2024

Macon considers farmland protection plan Page 14

Page 4

CONTENTS

On the Cover:

Last week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago brought a lot of energy, but underneath the layers of excitement were lingering questions for the party. Can it generate enough energy to turn out the crucial youth vote? Can it reach voters in rural areas of important battleground states like North Carolina? Smoky Mountain News Politics Editor Cory Vaillancourt was on the ground in Chicago to speak with party leaders about those and other pressing issues. (page 5) Cory Vaillancourt photo

News

Jackson commission approves new FRL agreement................................................4 Harris ticket energizes rural NC voters, but will it be enough?..............................8 NC’s youngest DNC delegates reaffirm commitment to party in Chicago....10 Cherokee decides how to use opioid settlement funds........................................13 Macon considers farmland protection plan................................................................14 Sylva proposes changes to fee schedule..................................................................15 JCPS to open infant/toddler classroom......................................................................16 Community briefs..............................................................................................................19

Opinion

How about some respect for all athletes....................................................................20 A&E

Melodies of love: Asheville Mountain Boys to play Sylva......................................22

Outdoors

From mosquitos to medical school, WCU alumnus shares his journey ..........32

STAFF

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S UBSCRIPTIONS

SUBSCRIPTION: 1 YEAR $80 | 6 MONTHS $55 | 3 MONTHS $35

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Notes

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Nutrition Facts

* Percent Weekly values based

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Answer: This is one of those claims that just refuses to evidence and research to the opposite. In 1990 a study was done with adults with rhinovirus (the common cold) who were milk, and their production of mucus was studied. The conclusion was that the consumption of milk “…was not associated with an increase in upper or lower respiratory tract symptoms of or nasal secretion weight…”

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The consensus in the medical community is that thicker, creamier cold because they may seem to coat the tongue and throat, leading some to believe they are creating mucus – when they do not. Both cow’s milk and soy are a good source of nutrients, but if you or temporarily switch to beverages that are soothing and may seem to be more easily consumed.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8452378/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2154152/

Leah McGrath, RDN, LDN

Ingles Market Corporate Dietitian

@InglesDietitian

Leah McGrath - Dietitian

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on Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain and Buncombe diets.

Jackson County approves new library agreement

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER

The Jackson County Commission has approved a new version of the Fontana Regional Library interlocal agreement that contains some significant changes to the revisions previously put forth by Macon County.

“It’s not a win for everyone, it’s not a loss for everyone,” said Jackson County Commission Chairman Mark Letson. “It’s meeting in the middle to try and give the best for everybody in our county and surrounding counties.”

The process toward revising the interlocal agreement that governs the Fontana Regional Library system has been ongoing for more than a year. What started with complaints about certain books in circulation at FRL, has turned into a lengthy look at how the FRL functions and an attempt to rewrite some of its rules.

The agreement that binds the Fontana Regional Library — the library system that operates in Jackson, Macon and Swain counties — came up for its 10-year review last year. The Macon County Commission passed a set of proposed changes to the document in November.

However, in January of this year, after considering the changes Macon County had proposed, the Jackson County Commission decided they could not approve the document with the proposed revisions. Rather, Jackson commissioners set out to make adjustments of their own.

After some slow, unsuccessful back and forth with the board attorney, Jackson Commissioner John Smith proposed a joint meeting with commissioners from all three counties, as well as their respective county managers and attorneys. In order to keep this meeting from being a public meeting that would require proper noticing and be open to members of the public, each commission sent just two commissioners, keeping any board from forming a quorum.

The document presented to the Jackson County Commission at its Aug. 20 meeting was a result of those joint meetings, even though the cooperation between counties was not complete.

“We initially began working with or attempting to work with all of the members of the original adopted interlocal agreement, so that included ourselves and Macon and Swain and Fontana Regional [Library],” said Board Attorney John Kubis. “That process sort of broke down a little bit where it was primarily us working with Swain and Fontana Regional for the completion, what ultimately wound up to be the completed draft.”

Swain Commissioners also reviewed and approved the proposed changes to the FRL agreement at their Aug. 20 meeting. Macon County Commissioners have not yet reviewed the proposed changes in public meeting and the agenda has not yet been released for the commission’s September meeting.

Tracy Fitzmaurice, director of the Fontana Regional Library system said she did not have comments on the proposed changes as the FRL Governing Board has not yet met to review the document.

All four parties — Jackson, Macon, Swain commissions and the Fontana Regional Library — would have to approve the proposed changes before they can replace the current FRL interlocal agreement.

“The proposed agreement is the result of a joint meeting that was had between the counties and Fontana Regional Library and the intent of that meeting was to produce an effective document that complies with North Carolina law and administrative code,” said Kubis. “It is therefore an enforceable document which is the goal with any agreement. The other goal was for it to be in keeping with the spirit and mission of the original agreement and that’s to allow for the continued public access to shared resources for their community needs.”

Fontana Regional Library formed in 1944 when the Tennessee Valley Authority sponsored a regional bookmobile to visit the most remote areas of Jackson, Macon and Swain counties.

back in January. “Certainly, whatever it does mean, it means that commissioners are now going to be in a position to determine whether or not libraries are acting in accordance with the socially and politically neutral manner language.”

The document approved by Jackson and Swain end the purpose statement with, “To this end, the FRL shall operate the county libraries and branches of the participating local government units in accordance with governing statutory authority, North Carolina law and this Agreement.”

This was an important point for multiple Jackson commissioners.

“In all my meeting and boards I’ve ever been on, that’s never happened,” said Commissioner Mark Jones. “You can always go after a meeting and speak to a person one on one, the chair and any other member of any issue.”

“I don’t think any of the commissioners that showed up wanted to have response from the chairman,” said Smith. “Any time the board, especially the chairman responds to public comment, you’re likely to inflame

Today, the system offers full library services to rural counties that might not otherwise be able to fund them. By combining cataloging, human resources, finance departments and information technology services for libraries in the three counties, it is cheaper for each county than if they were to provide for each of those departments individually. The regional agreement is renewed every 10 years and can be dissolved or withdrawn from at any time.

The document approved by Jackson and Swain counties contains several changes from that which was put forth by Macon County last year.

In the FRL’s purpose statement, Macon County had proposed that the statement end with, “To this end, the FRL shall operate the county libraries and branches of the participating local government units in a socially and politically neutral manner.”

This proved to be a sticking point for commissioners and attorneys.

“There’s been some discussion with the board and in public comment as to what this means,” Kubis told Jackson commissioners

The new document does keep intact the change Macon Commissioners made last year to put the authority to appoint members to the Fontana Regional library Board in the hands of county commissioners. The document does say that county commissioners “may” select from recommendations made by their respective County Library Board, though it is not required.

However, the new document does not contain a rule proposed by Macon County that said, “any time that a majority of the commissioners determine that a library trustee from their county has failed to abide by the library’s by-laws and policies, they may be removed by the commissioners from that county.”

While the new document does stipulate that the library board will hold 30-minute public comment sessions during its meeting with three minutes allowed per speaker, and more time permitted by the board’s discretion, it does not include the statement Macon County had proposed that said “the public shall be permitted to ask questions for clarification directly through the chair, who shall attempt to answer to the best of his or her ability.”

and cause more problems and we spoke about that when we were there.”

The new agreement reinstates FRL as a party in resolving disagreements related to the document, alongside commissioners from each county. The Macon proposal had proposed that commissioners and their attorneys address any issues without FRL.

While the Macon proposal stipulated that if a county were to withdraw from the FRL system, they would keep all the assets in the county library, the new proposal stipulates that “furniture and fixtures purchased by the Friends of the Library within the withdrawing county will remain with their respective library, and books and audiovisual materials will also remain with each library.”

However, “assets located in the local library facility that were purchased by Fontana Regional Library with Fontana Regional Library funds and intended for Fontana Regional Library regional support services will remain assets of Fontana Regional Library.”

The new proposal will not go into effect until and unless it is approved by both FRL and the Macon County Commission.

The new version of the Fontana Regional Library adopted by Jackson County mirrors some changes already put forth in Macon County. File photo

Kamala Harris’ unlikely journey, via Chicago, plays a huge role in Biden’s legacy

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS EDITOR

Editor’s note: This story is a compilation of Smoky Mountain News Politics Editor Cory Vaillancourt’s pop-up daily dispatches, “Via Chicago,” originally published online from the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago the week of Aug. 19.

DAY 1, ‘FOR THE PEOPLE’

It was an end of sorts, but also a beginning. The first night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago culminated with a speech by President Joe Biden, but it wasn’t exactly a misty-eyed moment of reflection on his substantial legacy of public service. That will come in time.

Vice President Kamala Harris’ job during this convention is to define herself better than her opponents can, and every speaker who stands behind the podium before Harris does has that same job — even the President of the United States.

Accordingly, some of the biggest names in Democratic politics turned up to do exactly that, all riffing on the night’s working-

class theme — “for the people,” a clever double entendre based on what Harris, a former prosecutor, used to say when making an appearance in court.

En masse, leaders from the country’s

“So as President, [Harris] will always have our backs. She will fight to lower costs for hardworking families, open the doors wide for good paying jobs and yes, she will restore abortion rights nationwide.”

— Hillary Rodham Clinton

largest labor unions — AFSCME, SEIU, LIUNA, IBEW, CWA and AFL-CIO — voiced their support for the Harris-Walz ticket before Shawn Fain, president of the United Automobile Workers, recognized Biden and Harris for walking the picket line with the UAW.

“For the UAW and working-class people everywhere, this election comes down to one question: which side are you on?” Fain said,

calling former president Donald Trump and running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, “lapdogs of the billionaire class.”

New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who six years ago was a bartender without health care coverage, carried the theme forward.

“We have a chance to elect a president who is for the middle class because she’s from the middle class,” Ocasio-Cortez said.

In an emotional speech, former senator, secretary of state and 2016 presidential nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton, who if things were different would be speaking at the conclusion of her second and final term as president, reflected on the historic nature of Harris as the party’s second female nominee.

Clinton’s speech came one day after the 104th anniversary of Tennessee ratifying the Nineteenth Amendment, which gave women the right to vote in state and federal elections, but she too pivoted back to the working-class themes that prevailed throughout the night, including during a performance by singer-songwriter Jason Isbell.

“So as President, [Harris] will always SEE FOUR DAYS, PAGE 7

Singer/songwriter Jason Isbell performs his working class anthem, “Something more than free” at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Aug. 19. Cory Vaillancourt photo

President Joe Biden delivered a powerful speech on the opening night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Andy Bailey illustration

have our backs,” Clinton said. “She will fight to lower costs for hardworking families, open the doors wide for good paying jobs and yes, she will restore abortion rights nationwide.”

When Biden finally took the stage late in the evening, he was greeted with a thundering ovation. Ever the team player — he didn’t want to drop out of the race, but he did — Biden did the job he came to do, spending half his time praising Harris and the other half excoriating Trump for nearly every objectionable statement or act he could recall.

Biden’s list was long but eventually the arc of his speech curved back toward the night’s theme.

“Wall Street didn’t build America, the middle class built America,” he said. “When unions do well, we all do well.”

Sharp, focused and fired-up but not without the occasional flub, Biden’s performance led some to ask openly, “Where was this guy during that disastrous debate, the one that sealed his fate?”

His speech wasn’t the end of his legacy, which is still being written. It was, however, a beginning — a beginning for Harris, as the torch is slowly passed over the course of four days. And if Harris loses, that legacy will be in tatters.

DAY 2, ‘A BOLD VISION FOR AMERICA’S FUTURE’

Former President Barack Obama has played a substantial part in Biden’s legacy, and as the second day of the Democratic National Convention opened with the theme of “a bold vision for America’s future,” Obama started by gazing not towards the future, but instead towards the past.

“Looking back, I can say without question that my first big decision as your nominee turned out to be one of my best,” he said. “And that was asking Joe Biden to serve by my side as vice president.”

Hillary Rodham Clinton took the opportunity during her speech to revisit a number of historic female firsts. Andy Bailey illustration

“Wall

Street didn’t build America, the middle class built America. When unions do well, we all do well.”

— President Joe Biden

In his adopted hometown, Barack Obama became the second president to stump on behalf of Vice President Kamala Harris. Andy Bailey illustration

Trudging down memory lane, though, leaves Democrats on a tricky path. Harris has offered to fix many of the nation’s problems on “day one,” but as some have pointed out, day one for Harris was more than 1,300 days ago.

There are, however, plenty of other issues that are part of that bold vision that Democrats haven’t quite been able to push across the finish line. Senior members of the party spent a lot time discussing them from the podium, at first without having to raise the specter of perennial boogeyman Trump.

“Senate Republicans pretend to care about middle-class families, but they voted ‘no’ on expanding the child tax credit,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), who worked with Harris when she was a senator. “JD Vance didn’t even show up to vote. Senate Republicans pretend to care about the border, but they voted ‘no’ on the strongest border bill in a decade.”

JB Pritzker, wealthy Democratic governor of Illinois,

“These oligarchs tell us we shouldn’t tax the rich, we shouldn’t take on price gouging, we shouldn’t expand Medicare to cover dental, hearing and vision, and we shouldn’t increase Social Security benefits for struggling seniors. Well, I’ve got some bad news for them. That is precisely what we are going to do.”

— Sen. Bernie Sanders

underscored the importance of Democratic policies reflective of Harris’ working-class agenda.

“More than anything, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz want a country where we can all live with a little serenity,” Pritzker said. “The serenity that comes with a balanced checkbook, an affordable grocery bill and a housing market that has room for everyone.”

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, technically an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, has long been considered one of Congress’ most liberal elected officials, if not the most liberal. Sanders’ own bold vision includes an economy, and society, geared towards the working class.

“These oligarchs tell us we shouldn’t tax the rich, we shouldn’t take on price gouging, we shouldn’t expand Medicare to cover dental, hearing and vision, and we shouldn’t increase Social Security benefits for struggling seniors. Well, I’ve got some bad news for them,” he said. “That is precisely what we are going to do.”

Still, a large part of Democrats bold vision involves invoking the boogeyman’s lone term, or perhaps looking forward to his next one. Sanders largely avoided this, but Schumer said a Trump victory in November would return the country to “the dark night of Trump’s American carnage” while Pritzker ridiculed Trump’s many business failures.

“Take it from an actual billionaire,” Pritzker said. “Trump is rich in only one thing. Stupidity.”

Obama joined in during his own rousing speech, comparing Trump’s time as president to a cinematic disaster — “We have seen that movie before, and we all know that the sequel is usually worse” — but, ever the statesman, redirected his comments towards Harris’ bold vision of America’s future.

“America can be and must be a force for good: discouraging conflict, fighting disease, promoting human rights, protecting the planet from climate change, defending freedom, brokering peace,” Obama said. “That’s what Kamala Harris believes and so do most Americans.”

DAY 3, ‘A FIGHT FOR OUR FREEDOMS’

Most Americans take for granted hard-fought freedoms so ingrained in the infinitesimal minutiae of daily life that they’re difficult to notice. Economic freedom — especially for the working class — is one thing, but social freedom is quite another.

Speakers on the third day of the Democratic National Convention were given the theme of “a fight for our freedoms” and used it to outline what they say are threats to some of those freedoms, like LGBTQ+ rights and abortion.

But the rest of the night shaped up like an old-timey variety show. The blind Motown pianist. A television talk show host. Another former president. Pop sensations current and past, covering a Prince song in honor of Walz’s beloved Minnesota. Sandwiched in there between them all, and probably overlooked by many, was maybe the least-known but most profound speaker of the night, 26-year-old former U.S. Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman.

In 2021 at the age of 22, Gorman read her poem, “The hill we climb” at Biden’s inauguration.

Vice presidential nominee Tim Walz gave a relatively short speech on the third day of the convention, but stuck to the evening’s theme. Andy Bailey illustration

The poem focused on the struggle to maintain and improve the nation, starting with an acknowledgement of hardship and loss. Invoking dawn and light as metaphors of a new beginning just two weeks after a mob of violent insurrectionists penetrated the Capitol, Gorman called for unity and for purpose by emphasizing common goals and finished with a call to action — for America to rise above chaos and work together to create a better future.

“… when the day comes we step out of the shade aflame and unafraid, the new dawn blooms as we free it, for there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it, if only we’re brave enough to be it.”

When her time came, Gorman rose above the fracas, the celebrities, the politicians, and offered a new piece, “This sacred scene.” Similar to “The hill we climb,” Gorman’s latest poem emphasizes love and empathy, but correctly identifies the maintenance of unity as “the hardest task history ever wrote.” In redefining the American dream, she demands that Americans become and remain worthy of it.

“Only now approaching this rare air are we aware that perhaps the American dream is no dream at all, but instead a dare to dream together.”

For Walz, that dream is the freedom to build the future in which you want to live.

“When Republicans use the word freedom,

they mean that the government should be free to invade your doctor’s office, corporations free to pollute your air and water and banks free to take advantage of customers,” he told the crowd during his relatively brief speech/high school pep rally. “But when we Democrats talk about freedom, we mean the freedom to make a better life for yourself and the people that you love, freedom to make your own healthcare decisions and yeah, your kid’s freedom to go to school without worrying about being shot dead in the hall.”

DAY 4, ‘FOR OUR FUTURE’

In the end, it was a beginning, but not just for the Harris/Walz ticket. It was a beginning for the next cohort of Democratic leadership at a critical moment in the party’s history, vaulted to national recognition — particularly, the slate of prospective vice presidential candidates who fell short of Walz. Each of them spoke at some point during the convention, including Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, briefly considered as Harris’ running mate, earned a major role in the program, speaking right before Harris closed out the convention. Cooper joked that he was “the last guy standing between you and the moment we’re all waiting for,” and he wasn’t talking about Beyonce.

Cooper, a close ally of both Biden and Harris, talked of his time as the state’s attorney general and the work Harris performed as California’s attorney general on behalf of homeowners who’d fallen prey to illegal foreclosures back during the Great Recession. Cooper lauded the tenacity of Harris, who fought to turn a $4 billion settlement into a $20 billion settlement.

“... For families who need better health care or a safer place to live, Kamala will fight for you. For parents who want better schools for their kids, for workers worried about a secure retirement for themselves, Kamala will fight for you. For any one of our allies, anywhere in the world, wondering if America still has your back, remember this — Kamala will fight for you, And when she fights, we win.”

— North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper

Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted her party’s nomination for president on Aug. 23. Andy Bailey illustration

Appearing more animated and enthusiastic than usual, the normally staid Cooper told the world that Harris would fight for them, too.

“Tonight, I want the American people to know, even if you don’t agree with her on everything, Kamala Harris will fight for you to the very end. For families who need better health care or a safer place to live, Kamala will fight for you. For parents who want better schools for their kids, for workers worried about a secure retirement for themselves, Kamala will fight for you. For any one of our allies, anywhere in the world, wondering if America still has your back, remember this — Kamala will fight for you,” Cooper said. “And when she fights, we win.”

Inspiring the capacity crowd, Cooper then commanded a number of delegations from swing states to stand up, starting with his own. The reality of Cooper’s prime-time speaking slot and Trump’s choice of thenNCGOP leader Michael Whatley to head the RNC suggests that both parties realize North Carolina is indeed in play for Harris this year.

Harris, delivering the most important speech of her career, began with a reflection on how she came to stand at that podium, at that moment. She called it an unlikely journey, while touching on themes from previous speakers like Gorman — the “divisive battles of the past” that are beneath Americans’ collective dignity. Harris also nailed campaign talking points bolstered by those who stood before her on the podium and now stand behind her. She called it all a “New Way Forward,” giving proper noun status to her intentions.

As with Trump’s Asheville rally on Aug. 14, Harris’ speech was thick on promises and thin on policy, except for a few. Codify Roe. Bring back the bipartisan border bill Trump killed. Ceasefire in Gaza.

But perhaps the most unlikely part of Harris’ journey, via Chicago, is that the enthusiasm, the pageantry, all of it was created by Biden’s withdrawal from the race. If Harris wins, when Biden’s legacy is finally written this may be its most important chapter.

Harris ticket energizes rural NC voters, but

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS EDITOR

The long and winding road to the White House passes through North Carolina, but in this swing state of nearly 11 million people, that road is more likely than in any other to be gravel or dirt.

Lately, Republicans have had an easier time reaching rural voters across the nation with their messaging, but a shift in North Carolina’s Democratic Party leadership over the past two years has resulted in a new focus on political organizing out in the country, away from traditional concrete-sidewalked strongholds.

“Our campaign is doing the work to meet voters where they are, including in rural communities — which is why we have opened offices in rural areas from Sylva to Hendersonville in the west to Kinston and Rocky Mount in the east,” said Allie Zuliani, spokesperson for the North Carolina Democratic Coordinated Campaign.

Local party leaders say Vice President Kamala Harris’ entry into the race has their growing corps of volunteers fired up, but they’ll still have to overcome logistical and ideological considerations if they’re to have any hope of turning some or all of that red clay blue.

Tucked away in the westernmost corner of North Carolina, Cherokee County is home to just 20,000 people spread across 455 square miles of rugged, somewhat mountainous terrain. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, its residents are classified as 100% rural. In both 2016 and 2020, the county went for Donald Trump with around 77% of the vote.

It’s an unlikely place to see a pocket of energy for Democrats emerge, but party chair Diane Snyder says that’s exactly what’s happening.

“Our party has been kind of quiet. Then I took over and we changed that,” Snyder said. “We have had about half a dozen events. Every time it grows a little bit more, and I get a little bit more excited.”

Snyder pointed to a recent event in conjunction with three other rural counties that drew around 80 people — a relatively large number. Lots of folks, Snyder said, are hesitant to identify as Democrats in such a ruby red region, but just the other day, a woman showed up at the party’s headquarters with a $500 check, saying she wanted to help. Another came in off the street and volunteered to talk to rural voters on the phone. For the first time, the party is engaging in door-to-door campaigning, and for Snyder, there’s a simple reason behind it all.

“Since Kamala declared for the presidency, I have gotten like 12 or 14 people a week signing on to my newsletter without me doing anything,” Snyder said. “They’re just signing up. People are starting to get the word out and starting to look for Democrats in our area.”

Buncombe County, situated along a broad river basin, couldn’t be more different than Cherokee County culturally. Slightly larger and home to more than 270,000 people anchored around Asheville, Buncombe sits near the eastern gateway to North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, is a liberal island awash in a sea of red and voted for Democratic presidential candidates in 2016 and 2020 with totals of 54% and 60%, respectively. Counterintuitively, Buncombe County does share something in common with Cherokee County more than two hours’ drive to the west — a higher-than-average number of rural residents.

It’s estimated that 14% to 21% of the United States population can be classified as rural. Buncombe is around 24%.

“Our volunteer inquiries before President Biden made the decision not to run, if we were lucky, were 20 to 24 a week,” said Kathie Kline, chair of the Buncombe County Democratic Party since October. “On Sunday night that

decision was made by Biden and the following week we had 144 inquiries. Every week since, we’ve had between 50 and 75. People are just coming out of the woodwork.”

And with a half-dozen or more active Democratic campaigns in the county, those volunteers are being put right to work; the most recent round of Republican gerrymandering has put pressure on Democratic incumbent Buncombe Rep. Lindsey Prather, whose district now includes rural precincts she didn’t have before. If North Carolina Democrats are to have any hope of breaking the Republican supermajority in the General Assembly, they’ll need to keep Prather in Raleigh.

“Our GOTV is going to be continuing, lots of phone banking, lots of events,” Kline said. “We have a whole lot of canvassers lined up.”

will it be

enough?

mist, specializes in public finance, wrote his dissertation on political geography and the urban/rural divide and is currently running for state treasurer. “They can turn out the vote in the cities and they can win their state, and they can govern in their state, but in North Carolina, you have to be able to build that geographic coalition, which I think gives us the potential to show people how to bridge that urban/rural divide in a way that no other state can do.”

Bridging that divide has been the subject of intense discussion in North Carolina for at least the last decade, but the movement has become a higher priority just in the last two.

Macon County native and Harvard grad Canyon Woodward wrote a book in 2022 with Chloe Maxmin detailing Maxmin’s unlikely successes in a pair of Maine electoral contests. In 2018, with Woodward serving as her campaign manager, Democrat

With 33% of its residents living in rural areas North Carolina is second only to Texas, which isn’t considered a swing state due to two Trump wins ranging from 6 to 9 points. North Carolina is, however, because Trump’s two wins here — by 3.66% and 1.34% in 2016 and 2020 respectively — have both come without him earning 50% of the vote.

That makes North Carolina’s percentage of rural voters the highest among all swing states. Wisconsin is second with 30%, Michigan has 25%, Georgia 25%, Pennsylvania 21%, Arizona 12% and Nevada just 6%. What makes North Carolina different, per Rep. Wesley Harris (D-Mecklenburg), is that urban Democratic power centers in North Carolina aren’t nearly as large as those in the other swing states. That means Democrats here can’t afford to ignore rural areas.

“If you want to actually be able to govern North Carolina, you have to build that geographic coalition, which no other swing state really has for Democrats in the sense that [other states like Michigan] can just focus on the cities,” said Harris, who certainly has a thing for numbers. Born in rural Alexander County, he’s the General Assembly’s only Ph. D.-level econo-

Maxmin won the Pine Tree State’s most rural House district by six points. Two years later and again with Woodward, she won a state Senate district by two points.

In their “tough-love letter to the Democratic Party” titled “Dirt Road Revival: How to Rebuild Rural Politics and Why Our Future Depends on it,” Woodward and Maxmin opine that the Democratic Party has abandoned rural America and posit a path forward.

The road map is simple — show up, shut up and listen.

In February 2023, North Carolina Democrats elected a 25year-old activist to chair the state party. Anderson Clayton was born and raised in rural Roxboro, population 8,100 and graduated from Appalachian State University with degrees in journalism and political science after serving as student body president there. Clayton went on to work as a field organizer for a number of Democratic presidential candidates in 2020 and was elected Person County Democratic Party Chair in 2021. Initially, she was viewed as a long shot to become state chair, but her second-round victory over incumbent and former state House Rep.

Buncombe County Democratic Party Chair Kathie Kline, seen here at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, says she’s optimistic about her party’s fortunes in the upcoming General Election. Cory Vaillancourt photo.

Bobbie Richardson, who had represented Franklin and Nash counties in the General Assembly, was seen as a response by rural electors to the fruitless big-city mentality of the state party’s upper echelons that’s resulted in near-total Republican domination of the state.

“You got to get out here and talk to people,” Clayton told The Smoky Mountain News at an event in Haywood County last month. “I don’t think voters are monolithic, and I don’t think the party should treat them as such. Rural people want to shake the hand of somebody, they want to introduce themselves, they want to be able to have that conversation.”

That conversation, though, can sometimes be a difficult one to have in rural Appalachia, due to a substantial cleavage between national Democratic messaging coming out of liberal power centers like Chicago, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., and the more conservative messages carried by moderate Democrats in the South. All the campaign donations and volunteers and postcards and phone calls in the world won’t amount to a hill of beans if voters don’t want to hear what Democrats are trying to tell them on abortion, guns and certain social issues.

Rural population in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, by county

about what their people need. What works best for Charlotte isn’t going to work in Haywood County, isn’t going to work in Swain County. They have different needs, they have different cultures, and we need to be okay with those differences. That’s how you break through the noise, because otherwise you’re just an echo chamber.”

Local party chairs like Cherokee County’s Snyder say they’re feeling the reverberations of that sentiment. Although her county’s Republican legislators are popular, powerful and enjoy solidly conservative districts — House Majority Whip Karl Gillespie’s performed at 71.9% based on voter performance from 2016 to 2022 according to nonpartisan mapping site davesredistricting.org, while Sen. Kevin Corbin’s district boasts more than 62% — a solid rural push could help Democratic congressional candidate Caleb Rudow of Buncombe County in his race against incumbent Rep. Chuck Edwards, of Hendersonville.

Edwards’ 11th performs at 53.8% Republican and his first contest against Asheville Democrat Jasmine Beach-Ferrara in 2022 saw him come away with 53.79% of the vote. Beach-Ferrara’s 44.51% total wasn’t close; however, she bested 2020 Dem nominee Moe Davis’ 42.34% take. Davis in turn topped the 38.75% total earned by 2018 Dem nominee Phillip Price, who’d increased Dem share of the vote from Rick Bryson’s 35.91% in 2016. Although faces have changed since 2016 — Mark Meadows, Madison Cawthorn, now Edwards — and the 11th has been slightly redrawn multiple times, the growing Democratic base has benefitted from recent campaign activity.

80.0%

Jackson 73.1%

Transylvania 59.6% Haywood 55.4% Henderson 33.3% State 33% Buncombe 24.1% United States 14%-21%

* Polk County is partially in the 11th Congressional District. Figure shown is for entire county. Source: U.S. Census Bureau

“Here’s the importance of having local candidates and local representatives in your area, because if not, you get the national narrative,” Rep. Harris said after speaking at a delegate breakfast at the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 21. “We’re a diverse big tent, but having candidates everywhere is how you break through — with people that fit their community, fit their region and go out and talk

“A lot of retirees come to rural North Carolina, so we’re trying to focus on things like Social Security, Medicare, things that we depend on,” Snyder said. “Right now, we don’t even have an obstetrics hospital. If you want to have a baby in Cherokee County, you don’t. You go somewhere else. We have no [broadband] internet because we’re rural and we’re mountainous and it’s harder to get into our mountains to put that stuff in. Who wants to have a new business come to our area when they don’t have a way to get the word out? I think that puts us behind.”

It’s a big “if,” but if Democrats have been showing up, shutting up, listening to their rural constituents and messaging in a way that reaches rural voters — Kamala Harris, Caleb Rudow and a plethora of down-ballot candidates stand to benefit in the west, and all across this rural state.

“I feel really optimistic about it,” Kline said. “I also feel that a lot of people may become complacent, because there is so much enthusiasm and there is so much press. We run the risk of a lot of people who don’t want to dial on their phones or don’t want to knock on doors. Our concern is that they may stay home and not help us. We need everyone, all the boots on the ground. We don’t want to hold anything back. We have got to push hard from this moment all the way through till the polls close on Nov. 5.”

Bearers of the Tar Heel torch

North Carolina’s youngest DNC delegates reaffirm commitment to party in Chicago

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT POLITICS EDITOR

Torches were passed at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago last week, even more so than most people might have seen on their television screens.

President Joe Biden’s acquiescence to his potential successor, Vice President Kamala Harris, took center stage, but working in the background all the while were scores of young Democrats.

They’re not your daddy’s Democrats. They’re grabbing the torch and running with their own priorities, hoping to foster increased participation by a coveted demographic and maybe — just maybe — to win the biggest fight of their lives. Again.

“I think the issue base that the Democratic Party champions really affects everybody, but in particular, there are some issues that are going to impact young people more, for sure,”

said Grayson Barnette, a 28-year-old at-large delegate originally from Lenoir. “Especially issues that are really a longer-term conversation.”

Turnout has traditionally been a problem among the nation’s youngest voters.

Whether disinterested, disgusted or devoted to making lives of their own, young people across the nation typically vote at rates far lower than older people. It’s one of the most durable statistics in all of politics, doled out over years.

People over 60 vote more than any other age bracket. In the 2020 General Election, an estimated 78% cast ballots, according to the University of Florida.

Right behind them were voters aged 45 to 59, at 73%.

Behind them, ages 30 to 44 with 64%.

Voters 18 to 29 turned out at about 52%.

There are more than 50 million Americans in the 18 to 29 range — Democrats, Libertarians, Republicans, everything in between. The demographic has the potential to shape every election, every year, on every level, if it’s properly mobilized.

It’s usually not. During the 2022 mid-term election, when turnout is always lower overall,

a Tufts University study showed especially sluggish turnout among younger voters in what are now presidential swing states. Only 23% of young North Carolina voters showed up to the polls that year, despite the obvious implication that they’ll have to live with the next administration’s policies a lot longer than older voters will.

“We have policymakers who are 75 and 80 years old who are not going to experience the economic impacts 40 years down the line,” said Colton Browder, a 23-year-old delegate from Buncombe County. “Ensuring that we are doing right by the people today, ensuring that our economic and fiscal policy is setting up our

generation and future generations for success, I think, is critical.”

That’s what Minnesota governor and vice presidential nominee Tim Walz told hundreds of attendees when he dropped in unscheduled to a Democratic Youth Council meeting at the DNC on Aug. 20 to discuss policies younger Democrats prioritize.

“Look, we have issues we need to solve and I keep talking about this — the issue around climate change, you need to take a role in this. You know why? I’ll be dead long before the impact falls to you,” Walz said. “And this generation that doesn’t think they need to do a damn thing, you and F

North Carolina Democratic delegates (left to right) Grayson Barnette, Kristen Robinson and Jesse Ross stand with the youngest state party chair in the nation, North Carolina’s Anderson Clayton (right), near the floor of the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Cory Vaillancourt photo

your kids are going to feel the brunt of it if we don’t attack it.”

The effects of climate change are far-reaching and act as a drag on nearly every sector of the economy. North Carolina’s General Assembly overrode two vetoes by Gov. Roy Cooper last year that critics say will make it easier to pollute, and the North Carolina Republican Party nominee for governor, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, believes climate science is junk.

Agriculture is the state’s top economic sector and is especially vulnerable to climate change, but along the state’s peripheries, another economic sector is equally vulnerable.

Nebraska, the cost for one year of college at the University of Minnesota was $1,455 in-state, which would take 470 hours of minimum wage labor at the prevailing $3.10 federal hourly minimum wage to pay for — about 11 weeks of full-time work, or roughly the average length of the a typical college summer break.

That same year, the average cost for one year of college in the United States was $3,877, per the National Center for Education Statistics. At minimum wage it would take 1,250 hours of work to pay for one year of college — more than the number of hours a fulltime employee works in 31 weeks.

“We benefit a lot from tourism on the coast and in the mountains,” Barnette said. “Anytime we have these natural disasters that set our community back, we’re going to see our infrastructure crumble. With an 80-to100-year timeline on most of our infrastructure, particularly in Western North Carolina, we’re going to start seeing more failures.”

“Ensuring

that we are doing right by the people today, ensuring that our economic and fiscal policy is setting up our generation and future generations for success, I think, is critical.”

Walz’s anecdote makes a larger point. Today, “the economics of this are upside down,” he said, and the numbers are far worse.

The small Haywood County town of Canton may not be the tourist hotbed that other Smoky Mountain destinations are — yet — but deadly flooding in 2021 killed six people, caused half a billion dollars’ damage across the county and has thus far cost state and federal taxpayers tens of millions of dollars.

For the 2022-23 school year, NCES reports an average cost of $38,270 for a year of college. With federal minimum wage holding steady at $7.25 for the past 15 years, today it would take 5,340 hours of work to pay for a year of college — more than 31 months of full-time, minimum wage labor.

—

Colton Browder, Buncombe County delegate

Kristen Robinson is currently in graduate school, has $40,000 in educational debt and hasn’t yet entered her prime earning years, but she’s calling for increased funding of merit-based forgivable loan programs, like the N.C. Teaching Fellows Program.

“When the flooding happened in Canton, I think that was one of the times of us being able to see in Western North Carolina that some of this climate stuff is really affecting us, even all the way out here,” said Kristen Robinson, a 28year-old Buncombe County delegate.

It was the town’s second 500-year flood in 17 years.

At age 60, Walz is long done with his formal schooling but addressed student loan forgiveness by focusing on the other side of the coin — college affordability.

“When I graduated high school, you could have taken a minimum wage job in the summer and paid the tuition cost at the University of Minnesota for a year,” he said.

In 1982, the year Walz’s class of 25 students graduated from high school in Butte,

Learn more

Haywood County delegate to the 2024 Democratic National Convention Jesse Ross has a lot to say about his experience in Chicago and wants to share it with you. Ross will host an informal informational session this weekend, answering your questions at the Haywood County Democratic Party headquarters. Free.

Time: 2:30 p.m.

Date: Sunday, Sept. 1

Location: 734 North Main Street, Waynesville

haywooddemocrats.org

“I think what we need to do is make sure we’re funding our education systems and also making sure that we’re keeping in check some of these institutions that are kind of price gouging,” she said.

Through a program called NC Promise that started in 2018, students in North Carolina can qualify for significantly reduced tuition at Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, UNC-Pembroke and Western Carolina University, $500 a semester. This fall, UNC-Chapel Hill’s “Tar Heel Guarantee” covers out-of-pocket tuition and fees for students whose families make less than $80,000 a year, but these programs are relatively new attempts to address affordability.

Jesse Ross, a 28-year-old delegate from Haywood County, said that he had to run a cost-benefit analysis of college a decade ago, eventually committing to Queen’s University of Charlotte, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history.

“Part of that calculus actually comes down to the fact that I remember being 18 and not knowing if a college degree would actually be worth it. It’s turned out that way for me. Luckily, I don’t have as many student loans,” said Ross, President of the Haywood County Young Democrats and western regional vice president for the Young Democrats of North Carolina. “But if I was that age now and looking at how much student loans were, I would be preaching about how absolutely unfair and how much of a lack of a future I have.”

SEE YOUNG DEMOCRATS, PAGE 12

Many younger Democrats are also concerned about what sort of future their LGBTQ+ peers will have, especially in a state that bumbled its way into massive boycotts by passing a so-called “bathroom bill” that was so unpopular its repeal actually expanded LGBTQ+ rights.

Whereas older generations may still feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable with the LGBTQ+ liberation movement, that’s not so for the next generation of Democrats who basically grew up taking modern visibility and freedoms for granted.

“Our generation, we have a lot of empathy with ‘Hey, we don’t want to be messed with by the government,’” Ross said. “Ironically, that’s a GOP talking point.”

Maybe not as much, anymore; at the risk of invoking conflicted memories of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” Walz has been calling out what he says is a “weird” obsession by Republicans with bathroom/bedroom issues, using a new slogan — “mind your own damn business.” He’s not the only one.

“I don’t find it in my business what people do in their bedrooms and I think it’s odd to have such a fixation on what people want to do in their own personal lives,” Browder said.

“Democrats just want everybody to be able to live their lives safely, happily and not have to worry about medical debt or being burdened by a job that doesn’t pay them or being discriminated against for who they love or what they look like. It’s that simple,”

said Barnette.

“I think it’s really weird that they are focused on this issue instead of things like affordable housing, affordable health care, the economy, making sure we have good-paying jobs,” Robinson said. “It seems like they just want to bring up issues to keep folks divided instead of bringing us together as a country.”

Robinson got her start in politics as the LGBTQ Caucus Chair for the College Democrats of North Carolina after the land-

Sometimes lost in the roiling national debate about abortion, especially postDobbs, is that although a democracy allows everyone to have a say in the type of society they want to create, the primary demographic this particular issue affects is people of child-bearing age — young people.

Since Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973, only about a third of Americans have opposed the right to an abortion. Now, gone the guardrails of Roe, abortion is severely or completely restricted in 16 states.

“Democrats just want everybody to be able to live their lives safely, happily and not have to worry about medical debt or being burdened by a job that doesn’t pay them or being discriminated against for who they love or what they look like. It’s that simple.”

— Grayson Barnette, Delegate from Lenoir

abortion ban — draconian by some measures, generous by others.

“Planned Parenthood in Asheville has seen an increase of folks from other states with the overturning of Roe v. Wade. It’s putting a strain on our systems, but we have to have it,” Robinson said. “Folks need somewhere to go if they can’t go in their own state right now.”

Democrats used to have a saying about abortion. “Safe, legal and rare.”

While the party talked the talk on all three components of that statement, they’ve really only walked the walk on the first two.

Robinson thinks that if Americans really want abortions to be rare, they should try to protect the child once it’s outside the womb, too.

“With all the other things that are on top that we have to pay for, having things like the child tax credit I think really helps people feel more comfortable about being able to raise their family in a good, healthy way,” she said.

mark 2015 Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which held that the Constitution’s Fourteenth Amendment requires states to permit same-sex marriage. During her first semester at AshevilleBuncombe Technical Community College, she was “amazed” to see that moment arrive for one of her LGBTQ+ professors.

“That’s kind of what motivated me to want to be involved in this stuff,” Robinson said. “I saw change can happen and things can get better. You just have to work for it.”

Many consider outrage over the Dobbs ruling in some of those states as a key reason why an expected “red wave” in the 2022 election washed out long before hitting the shores of Washington, D.C. as hoped.

While other prominent issues have since popped into the forefront of the campaign, Democrats don’t want voters to forget who engineered the ruling that has imperiled what they say are their rights.

In North Carolina, the Dobbs led the General Assembly to roll back to a 12-week

That, historically, has been a fight. But it’s a fight in which Walz and North Carolina’s youthful Democratic delegation are willing to engage.

“This is a privilege to be in this fight,” Walz said. “It’s a pain in the butt to have to do some of this, it’s a lot of extra work, but I guarantee you, I guarantee you, the stories that you will tell and your generation will tell — because look, this thing’s going to be close, it is going to be closer than it should be, it’s going to be won in the trenches — It’s going to be won by your demographic for the most part. If we can turn you out and get you to vote.”

Cherokee decides how to use opioid settlement funds

BY KYLE PERROTTI NEWS EDITOR

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has approved a plan to use money from a settlement with opioid distributors and manufacturers to provide a boost to an up-and-coming transitional living home on the Qualla Boundary that will help those in recovery get back on their feet.

EBCI collaborated with other tribes as part of a federal class-action lawsuit. EBCI Attorney General Mike McConnell said he worked with the outside counsel representing the tribe, as well as several other tribes, to nail down a settlement with the defendants.

While McConnell wouldn’t say how much money EBCI actually received, he did note that the amount was determined by using a formula developed by the court to ensure a fair distribution among all plaintiffs.

“We are choosing to use it for services that help people who have had trouble with substance abuse,” McConnell said.

EBCI’s committee to determine how to use the funds was made up of representatives from various tribal programs, the hospital and the school system. The committee heard three different requests to use the money and decided to award the funds to RezHOPE, a nonprofit seeking to provide resources for people trying to get their lives back together after working through a substance use disorder.

Katelynn McCoy runs RezHOPE with her husband, Kallup, both of whom are in recovery and understand how hard it is for a person to pull themselves out of the throes of addiction. McCoy said that although she seemed to have a happy childhood with a family who loved her and graduated valedictorian, she also started using alcohol and marijuana at age 12 and opioids when she was 15.

Over the span of her 14-year addiction,

McCoy spent time in jails in surrounding counties and even did a stint in prison.

After four months in jail for trafficking in 2017, she decided to get clean, something she credits to her personal faith and a strong support system.

Now a peer support specialist, McCoy said she wanted to give others in recovery a safe space where they can live while they get their lives back together. By offering that transitional living home, she believes she can take some of that stress off people during what is a vulnerable, difficult time.

“We believe that everyone deserves safe housing and basic means, access to food and healthcare,” she said. “Our home is designed to provide temporary housing for six to nine months so people can do that.”

The home is already secured, so the next step for RezHOPE is to get a mode of transportation so people can get to different places they need to be to further their recovery and reintegration back into society.

Convicted felon sentenced for trafficking fentanyl

John Edward Bradley, 50, of Cherokee, was sentenced to seven years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for trafficking fentanyl, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

According to court documents and court proceedings, Bradley was previously convicted of a federal firearms offense in the Western District of North Carolina and was sentenced to a term of imprisonment. After serving his prison term, Bradley was placed under court supervision on conditions of federal supervised release. In June 2023, Bradley’s federal probation officer obtained a warrant for Bradley’s arrest on allegations that Bradley had violated the terms of his supervision.

EBCI’s money from the settlement will go toward a part-time paid employee, as well as a 15-passenger van to transport participants to and from any number of places, including medical appointments and job interviews. During the August Tribal Council meeting, some representatives questioned whether a new van would be the best way to spend that money.

While Tribal Council seemed enthusiastic, the representatives were also cautious. Council Chairman Mike Parker said he wanted to ensure the tribe does its due diligence to ensure RezHOPE isn’t “set up to fail.” At that time, McCoy noted that they have been working on site review, permits and insurance, all of which can be burdensome at times. In the meantime, Tribal

“We believe that everyone deserves safe housing and basic means, access to food and healthcare. Our home is designed to provide temporary housing for six to nine months so people can do that.”

— Katelynn McCoy, RezHOPE

According to court documents, on June 13, 2023, law enforcement observed Bradley driving his vehicle in Cherokee. Knowing that there was an active arrest warrant against Bradley, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Bradley’s vehicle and Bradley was taken into custody. While in custody, Bradley told law enforcement that he had narcotics hidden in his underwear. Law enforcement searched Bradley and retrieved two baggies containing a controlled substance. Following a lab analysis of the substances it was determined that the larger baggie contained fentanyl, and the smaller baggie contained methamphetamine. Bradley admitted that he possessed the fentanyl with the intent to distribute it to others.

On Dec. 20, 2023, Bradley pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. He is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

“Is there not something the tribe can assist with to get a better rate?” asked Michael Stamper of the Painttown Community.

While the possibility of getting an older van from the tribe’s motor pool was floated, along with buying a used van, EBCI Treasury Secretary Brandi Claxton said that wasn’t likely.

“It’s hard to get a used vehicle anywhere right now,” she said, adding that there wasn’t anything in the motor pool that didn’t need “a lot of work.”

Council encouraged her to continue to apply for more grants to make the process as easy as possible.

McCoy told the representatives that they are close to staffing up to the point that there will be at least one employee at the home 24/7 and that they are close to getting their first person in the home.

“I can’t wait to come in here at a later date and bring some of the guys in our program in and have them share how far they’re coming,” she said.

Macon considers farmland protection plan

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER

Macon County commissioners are considering the adoption of a farmland protection ordinance that would not only orchestrate cooperation between county government and farmers in the region but also allow for more grant funding opportunities for the county.

“This provides a little bit of a framework for grant opportunities going forward and some ideas to help maintain the viability of agriculture in a fluid economy,” said Soil and Water Conservation District Director Doug Johnson. In 2022, Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District applied for and received a grant from the Agriculture Development and Farmland Preservation trust

fund through the state of North Carolina to develop a farmland protection plan for the county. The county subsequently hired Foothills Regional Commission out of Rutherford County to create the plan.

At Macon’s Aug. 13 meeting, Alan Toney and Magnolia Long presented the plan to the commission.

In creating the plan, Foothills Regional Commission not only reviewed data available through the US Census of Agriculture, but also conducted surveys and interview with local farmers.

As it stands now, agriculture in the county is producing about $6.6 million in annual sales with $4 million of that coming from crop farming and $2.6 million coming from livestock farming. While hay leads crop acreage in the county,

fruit, tree nut and berry crops produce the highest sales in the county. Cattle and calves are the leading livestock items.

The number of farms in Macon County held steady between 2007 and 2022 at about 346, but during that same time there was about a 3.9% increase in farmland in the county. The majority of those farms, 231 of them, are 50 acres or less.

“This is not uncommon for where y’all are, mountains, topography, those kinds of things can make things challenging,” said Toney. “A lot of your farms are smaller scale operations.”

However, the number of farms over 170 acres, considered to be large-scale operations, increased from 22 in 2007 to 33 in 2022.

Census information showed that there are approximately 635 operators running the 346 farms in the county, and that the average age of those operators is 59.8 years old.

“Agriculture is North Carolina’s biggest economic driver and mover,” said Toney. “It’s a huge industry in North Carolina.”

In surveys conducted by the Foothills Regional Commission, the firm determined that only a third of Macon farmers have a transition plan in place when they can no longer operate the farm. Less than half of them said they have some ideas for transition.

“What I’ll tell you is if you have some ideas, or you have something else to say, that means you don’t have a transition plan,” said Toney. “100% of those farmers who took the survey said it is important that their farm continues being a farm after they pass, that it continues operating under agriculture. That’s a big deal because it shows that maybe those farmers need some assistance with transition planning, maybe there’s some programming needs there.”

The surveys also found that while some farmers are familiar with the Present Use Value tax program in North Carolina, not as many are familiar with voluntary agricultural districts or conser-

vation easements.

“People always want to know more about those,” said Toney.

Of the farmers interviewed, 60% said they wanted to expand their farming operation over the next five years. The most popular answers for things that farmers wanted to learn more about were products they can grow themselves, marketing and agribusiness. And when asked what they would like to see from the county, farmers said the county should be promoting local foods and farms, enhancing the Macon County Agriculture Fair and promoting agriculture programs in K-12 education.

The plan that the team developed recommends the county invest in local farmers markets, increase awareness about opportunities and resources provided by local government entities, provide support and marketing assistance to farmers and agribusinesses and encourage farmers to diversify crop and livestock items to become resilient to market changes.

“We want to invest in local farmers markets,” said Toney. “This is really important for small scale and farmers starting now. Your bigger operations aren’t relying on farmers markets.”

The plan also calls for increasing awareness and support for those interested in transition planning, increasing understanding around conservation easements and protecting farmland as a valuable resource.

Right now, the county has voluntary agriculture districts, but the proposed plan recommends setting specific enrollment

goals for that district.

“If you set a number, it holds you accountable,” Toney said. “But also consider the adoption of an enhanced voluntary agricultural district, which gives farmers a bit more protection, a few more options.”

The plan lays the groundwork for the county to create a land lease recruitment program which would connect people with fallow farmland to those looking to start farming or expand their existing operation.

“Farmers need access to expand their operation, but also to start out,” said Toney. “If you ask most farmers when they expanded their operation, they did not own their land, a lot of times, unless it was family land, they’ll tell you no, they had to lease it from someone else. If you create a program where that’s easily accessible, it’s easy to connect people that want to farm to people who are wanting to get out of it or it’s sitting there, and they don’t know what to do with it.”

With an adopted plan in place, Macon County would be eligible for lower required matching amounts in grants from the Agriculture Development and Farmland Protection Trust. Johnsons said that having a plan in place helps with receiving those grants.

The Foothills Regional Commission presented the plan to commissioners and asked for their approval at the Aug. 13 meeting, however, because Commissioner John Shearl said he would not approve the plan without first talking to farmers, the commission decided to table the plan and will tentatively revisit it at their September meeting.

Sylva proposes changes to fee schedule

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER

The Sylva Town Council will vote next month on changes to its fee schedule regarding costs for renting out Bridge Park.

“I think it still keeps the fees reasonable for renting that facility,” said Town Manager Paige Dowling.

As Bridge Park has grown and undergone significant upgrades, town staff say that the quality and quantity of events at the public park have changed.

“We realized that that space is being used as more than a picnic shelter for birthday parties like our other parks,” Dowling said.

The park has been the site of major upgrades over the last year after the Town of Sylva received a grant from the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority. The town paved the parking lot and added ADA parking spaces, constructed concrete walkways and an ADA-compliant fishing pier and put in benches, picnic tables and bioretention areas that help clean water and runoff that drain into Scotts Creek.

The fee for park rental will remain the same — $30 for two hours, $50 for four hours and $100 for eight hours for town residents; and $50 for two hours, $75 for four hours and $125 for eight hours for non-town residents.

But the town is now proposing additional costs for food trucks and alcohol vendors.

There will be a flat fee of $75 for up to six food trucks, and a fee of $25 per alcohol vendor. Previously the town had charged anywhere from $30 to $65 per food truck depending on the type of event, and a flat fee of $50 for events with alcohol vendors.

“Every rental has a sort of permit holder and then they can pay those fees and collect from their vendors accordingly,” said Public Works Director Jake Scott.

Requiring a flat fee for food trucks will streamline the process for town administration.

“Then we’re not waiting on, if somebody wants to have two different food trucks come, for them to come and pay their own fee,” Dowling said. “We’re not waiting on each food truck to come here to do it, we collect the money up front.”

Tent rentals will now cost a flat fee of $100 for up to 30 vendor tents.

“We feel like that’s really all that we have the space for, to feasibly fit on the grass,” Dowling said. “These fees would help offset the maintenance costs and electricity, but it’s more to reflect the type of events the park is now being reserved for.”

The proposed changes to fees for renting Bridge Park also list the cost of officers, if applicable, under fees for alcohol vendors.

Changes to the fee schedule will not go into effect until approved by the Sylva Town Board.

JCPS to open infant/toddler classroom

BY HANNAH MCLEOD STAFF WRITER

Jackson County Schools will continue to increase its capacity for early childhood education with the opening of an infant/ toddler classroom at Scott Creek School this fall.

“There is no doubt that this is an immense need in our community,” said Superintendent Dana Ayers. “Even more so, this will be a recruitment and retention tool for JCPS as an employer.”

A grant from Dogwood Health Trust will allow the school system to establish a classroom for infants and toddlers as a way of providing high-quality, convenient childcare for JCPS employees.

“By offering this new space, we seek to support our staff in balancing their professional and personal lives while enhancing their overall job satisfaction,” the school system said in a press release.

The new classroom is tentatively scheduled to open in October with more information to come regarding an application process, deadlines and requirements for participating families.

“Just like many other communities across North Carolina, Jackson County is experiencing a child care crisis,” said JCPS Preschool Coordinator Cassie Rogers. “Child care should be viewed as a part of any successful community’s infrastructure. We are grateful that Dogwood Health Trust acknowledged

this need in Jackson County, and we hope that this classroom will help JCPS employees feel supported within their roles in our organization.”

In North Carolina today, the supply of child care falls short of demand with an average of over five families competing for every one available licensed child care slot statewide. Among parents with children under the age of six, 81% pay for child care, and families in the state spend an average of $633 per month, according to the Chamber report.

When Ayers was hired as superintendent of JCPS in 2021, she made it clear that expanding pre-K and early childhood literacy were two of her primary goals.

“Preschool is vastly important to the academic success of students,” Ayers said.

Since then, the school system has more than doubled its pre-K capacity with an additional class each at Smoky Mountain Elementary, Cullowhee Valley, Scotts Creek Elementary, Fairview Elementary and Blue Ridge schools, in part due to funding from Dogwood Health Trust and Blue Ridge School Foundation.

“I am delighted that JCPS is setting the pace for providing preschool opportunities,” Ayers said. “Dogwood Health Trust shares our desire to offer early learning to Jackson County families, and we are fortunate to have them partner with us through grant funding.”

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter to

meet in Clyde

The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 980 holds its regular meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the Sara Brown Town Hall in Clyde. Membership is open to U.S. armed forces veterans who served on active duty (for other than training purposes) in the Republic of Vietnam between February 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975, or in any other duty location between August 5, 1964, and May 7, 1975. Join us as we continue to serve our country, our community and one another.  For more information, contact Lonnie at 321.262.8915 or by email at p31s8@aol.com.

In North Carolina today, the supply of child care falls short of demand with an average of over five families competing for every one available licensed child care slot statewide. Stock photo

Sarge’s 19th annual dog walk

Join Sarge’s Animal Rescue at 10 a.m. Sept. 7, for a fun-filled annual event at the Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville.

“It’s a wonderful way for the community to support Sarge’s as they care for Haywood County’s homeless cats and dogs,” said Sue Libera, who has been a Sarge’s volunteer since 2005.

Sarge’s will be welcoming back Eddie and Amanda Foxx from 99.9 KISS Country as grand marshals and contest judges along with Jeanne Naber, of Songbug DJ Services, who will emcee the event. There will be music, fun, dog contests and the dog walk parade.

Registration is now available online at sarges.org.

Individuals can pre-register in person Sept. 5-6 from noon to 6 p.m. at Sarge’s Animal Rescue, 256B Industrial Park Drive, Waynesville.

Anyone can also register on the day of the event, starting at 9 a.m., at the Haywood County Courthouse on Main Street in Waynesville.

The registration fee is $25 for adults and $15 for children. The price of registration includes a T-shirt. Additional T-shirts can be purchased for $20 apiece.

Sarge’s has rescued over 11,800 of Haywood County’s homeless cats and dogs.

Kirk Walden to speak in Franklin Sept. 12

Kirk Walden, nationally known speaker, author and humorist, will speak at the annual banquet of the Smoky Mountain Pregnancy Care Center (SMPCC) at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12.

The event, a fundraiser for SMPCC, will be at the Franklin Covenant Church, 265 Belleview Park Road. Preregistration is required to reserve a seat. Call 828.349.3200 or visit smokypartners.com. Seating is limited for the event, which includes dinner, program and silent auction.

Walden provides a surprising view on the true impact of pregnancy help ministries all over the country. He has over 30 years of experience in the pregnancy care ministry, working with hundreds of centers across the U.S. and Canada, promoting a culture of life. There are almost 3,000 pregnancy care centers in the United States, and SMPCC’s centers provide care in Western North Carolina.

Walden is the author of “The Wall,” a book inspiring readers to build a culture of life in America, and is co-author of the upcoming book, “Saving Samaria,” which he is writing alongside his wife, Jennifer.

“Kirk inspires and challenges audiences with true-life stories, humor and hope,” said Jenny Golding, SMPCC’s executive director. “We are so pleased to be bringing him back after five years and hope those who missed him before will be with us September 12. It will be a great evening. SMPCC could not do the important work of this ministry without support from our communities.”

The Smoky Mountain Pregnancy Care Center has clinics in Franklin and Sylva, providing free

program focuses on basic structure and processing to meeting expectations for consumer protection and quality improvement. Moving forward, Vaya Health will participate in the Health Care Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS), one of health care’s most widely used performance tools. HEDIS includes over 90 measures across six domains of care, with focused results on clinical performance and patient experience.

Labor Day events support artists in residence program

Lake Junaluska’s artists in residence will hold an art show, art market and silent auction Labor Day weekend at Lake Junaluska.

The art show will be from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Aug. 29-Sept. 2 in room 201 of the Harrell Center.

“It’s heartbreaking that there is still such an overwhelming number of homeless animals in our county,” said volunteer Tish O’Connor, who has been part of Sarge’s since its beginning.

services to clients, and online life enrichment classes where clients earn reward points to redeem for items to help with parenting. SMPCC also has a mobile unit that takes their services into other communities in the rural mountains. The mobile unit will be on display at the banquet.

Haywood Pathways Center faces financial challenges

Over the past decade, Haywood Pathways Center has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families in need, providing shelter, meals, and a pathway to stability. Since its inception, Pathways has helped countless people transition from homelessness to stable housing, find employment, and rebuild their lives — largely without taxpayer money.

In 2023 alone, thanks to the contributions from donors, Haywood Pathways Center was able to plate 106,494 meals, provide 23,389 nights of shelter, 321 nights of emergency cold-weather shelter and serve 295 unique individuals, including 206 men and women, 33 parents and 56 children. Additionally, 62% of individuals and 73% of families who resided at Pathways successfully exited to housing or moved back in with family, while 72% of residents now have a stable monthly income, with 51% employed — 79% full-time. Despite these successes, Haywood Pathways Center is currently facing serious financial challenges. In response, the Pathways Board has implemented a contingency plan. If cash resources dip below $100,000, steps will be taken to cut

costs — including suspension of the operation of the Holy Cow Food Truck, which currently serves 500 free meals weekly, by Sept. 1, and possibly closing the family shelter, which currently houses seven families, including nine children and three newborn babies.

Please consider making a donation to Pathways today to ensure that shelter, meals and hope remain part of the Haywood County community.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit haywoodpathwayscenter.org or contact Executive Director Mandy Haithcox at mandy@haywoodpathways.org or 828.246.0332.

Vaya Health announces NCQA

accreditation

Vaya Health is officially Interim Accredited by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), as of Aug. 1. NCQA Health Plan Accreditation improves operational efficiencies and satisfies state requirements for health plans that earn the credentials.

NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization with a central mission to improve health care quality. The organization works to highlight top performers using measurements, transparency, and accountability to drive improvement.

Its Health Plan Accreditation program is an industry-leading certification that carefully assesses the structure, process, clinical quality, and patient satisfaction of health plans. More than 192 million people are enrolled in an NCQAaccredited health plan.

The NCQA Interim Health Plan Accreditation

The show will feature two pieces of art from 15 artists in residence who live at or have a connection as a Junaluskan to Lake Junaluska. Artistic mediums will include jewelry, pottery, acrylics, oils, watercolors, stained glass and more. The artists’ works will be for sale. The show is free and open to the public.

An art market and silent auction will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, in the Susan B. Todd room of the Harrell Center. The event will feature art demonstrations and displays, with many items for sale. Bidding on the silent auction items will close about one hour before the show ends. Ten percent of the profits will go to support the Lake Junaluska Artists in Residence program. The market and silent auction are free and open to the public.

For information, visit lakejunaluska.com/events.

‘Plastic People’ to show in Haywood

The North Carolina General Assembly declares that the mission of the public health system is to promote and contribute to the highest level of health possible for the people of North Carolina by preventing health risks and diseases; identifying and reducing health risks in the community; detecting, investigating, and preventing the spread of disease; promoting healthy lifestyles; and promoting a safe and healthful environment. (GS- 130A-1.1. “Mission and Essential Services”).

In keeping with this mission statement, the Haywood County Health and Human Services Board is supportive of the upcoming showing of the documentary “Plastic People.” The documentary will be shown at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 13, at the First United Methodist Church in Waynesville. There is no charge for admission.

Ongoing environmental and medical research is beginning to reveal the links of plastic production and pollution to a variety of diseases, disorders, and health related issues. The members of the Haywood County Health and Human Services Board encourage viewing the documentary due to the educational content related to the current and future health of the public.

The dog walk will be the 19th for the animal rescue.

Sarge’s photo

How about some respect for all athletes

BY BOB CLARK GUEST COLUMNIST

Editor’s note. Bob Clark coached the Tuscola boys and girls discus and shotput athletes for the past three seasons. Prior to that he coached the boys and girls throwers for four seasons at Waynesville Middle School. Six of those seven years he was a volunteer.)

This spring Tuscola High School’s principal, accompanied by the athletic director (AD), threw $30,000 of taxpayer money away to change the color suggested for the new Tuscola track. The principal, when looking at Pisgah’s justcompleted brick-colored track, pointed to the surface alongside a fellow Tuscola track coach and said: “They would never forgive me if I used that color.”

On behalf of all the track coaches, the head track coach sent a detailed email to the principal asking that he reconsider his decision. The email contained extensive information explaining that a darker track surface would significantly create more heat-related health, safety and performance issues. The sales representative for the surface company told a coach that it would be easily 10 to 20 degrees hotter and that the color requested by the principal would add $30,000 to the cost of the track as well. The principal’s one sentence response was: “Thank you for the information, I am going to stick with black.”

Why? Why treat our taxpayers and track student-athletes that way while crying about needing more bus drivers for our children’s safety? The color of the track was a choice, and if the administrators and school board actually believe what they say about “doing everything for the kids,” then their actions have now spoken louder than their words. Could it be that track and field and the taxpayers are not respected by the

Court wrong on immunity ruling

To the Editor:

The convicted (but yet to be sentenced) felon who sent an armed mob bent on mayhem to attack the U.S. Capitol in a desperate attempt to overturn the legitimate results of the 2020 Presidential election returned to the scene of the crime on Thursday, June 13, and was welcomed with open arms by members of the “values” party, the once proud defender of “law and order,” the Grand Old Party (you remember), the party whose members fled in panic three years ago last January less they be killed (or in the case of the vice president, hung) on a scaffold erected just outside the United States Capitol (Whew!).

Donald Trump was welcomed like a Roman conqueror returning from the wars in a golden chariot. The Associated Press reported the festive occasion in a “tweet” no less: “Donald Trump made a triumphant return to Capitol Hill on Thursday, his first with lawmakers since the January 6 attacks, embraced by energized House and Senate Republicans who find themselves reinvigorated by his bid to retake (retake?) the White House.” The word “retake” concerns me. Can we presume that implies by whatever means their dear leader deems necessary?

The term “equal justice under law” is the

administration?

My first meeting with the AD this past season was when he stopped me in the gym to comment that I had cut two boys and that “we don’t do cuts.” I explained that too many boys had come out for me to coach safely and effectively as I also coached four girls. When I pointed out the other sports at Tuscola that did cuts, his response was: “We don’t do cuts in a sport LIKE (emphasis supplied) track.” I let that slide, continued my pitch, and he repeated: “… not in a sport like track.” When I called him on that language, he stammered: “No, no, that’s not what I mean.” I responded that I had heard him clearly the first time and I left.

I then reviewed the Tuscola coaching manual to see what rule I had violated and Paragraph 27, headlined “TRYOUTS,” confirmed that I had followed the rules for making final cuts with no teams excepted. Around this same time another, inoffice Tuscola administrator during a disagreement with a track coach, stated: “No one grows up playing track.” As soon as pre-school kids are able, virtually every single one of them spends countless hours running, jumping and throwing stuff. That covers every Olympic track and field event.

Early in the season, a meet we were to attend was cancelled on short notice. The head coach scrambled to find a meet to enter so the students wouldn’t miss a week of competition. The choice was between going to Robbinsville High or the Asheville School. The Asheville meet provided stiffer competition and the shorter, safer distance would allow for more families to attend. It was a no-brainer. Coaching manual, Paragraph 20: “In the scheduling process, consideration should ALWAYS (emphasis supplied) be given to minimizing loss of class time and time spent traveling.”

LETTERS

main principle of the judicial system in the United States, deemed so vital that it’s engraved above the entrance of the Supreme Court building. It means that every person in the United States is entitled to receive equal and fair treatment from the law. These words express the ultimate responsibility of the Supreme Court and as the final reviewer and judge of the law, the High Court is charged with ensuring the American people the promise of equal justice under law, acting as our guardian and interpreter of the Constitution. By the same token, we as citizens also have an obligation (a duty) to the judicial process. Just as it’s a fundamental right of citizens to have their judicial case heard and decided by a “jury of their peers,” and since “peers” means you and me, thus every citizen, in his or her role as a juror, performs this basic but very vital function and responsibility essential to the concept of democracy.

The 12-member jury in New York fulfilled their obligation as Donald Trump’s peers, finding him guilty of all 34 counts charged. Interlopers seem to have interceded and at least temporarily prevented that court from carrying out its obligation to provide the accountability the jury’s decision requires.

The framers of the Constitution clearly intended the Supreme Court to rule on cases solely on the basis of facts, evidence and law,

Both the AD and principal told him it was an unacceptable choice because: “We don’t compete with private schools.” When the coach listed a number of Tuscola teams, including ours, that had been competing with private schools over the years, the comeback was: “We don’t compete with them because they try to recruit our athletes.” Our coaching staff was dumbfounded. And, by the way, Pisgah was already entered in the Asheville meet.

If a coach for Tuscola, Pisgah or any high school in any sport is approached by another school’s coach and that school could offer a better academic and/or athletic opportunity, he or she should let the student and parents know about it and support it. After more angst, including a heated argument, the AD and principal allowed us to go.

Note to the AD and principal: We are coaching studentathletes. Ninety-eight, or more, percent of our athletes aren’t going pro or even getting high dollar sports scholarships. Whether one goes to college or not, emphasizing academics over athletics is going to get each and every student a better base to go on to the “next level of life.” It is not about the coach. It is not about winning a game, meet or match. Coaches are mentors and leaders who should only want what is best for each of their respective athletes.

So, there you have it. The $30,000 is gone and our runners on a hotter track for a whole lot of years, despite the experts’ recommendations and an administration that openly places certain sports above other sports, “like track.” I hope that the AD and principal will take 15 minutes to read the school’s coaching manual and support every student-athlete equally and competently. And how about showing some respect for the taxpayers of Haywood County.

unencumbered and above the pressures and persuasions of the general public. Today’s Supreme Court is indeed being compelled (and disadvantageously to be sure), not only by public interest groups seeking to advance policy positions but unmistakably to partisan political devotees in their unending quest for power, wealth and influence, to which the Roberts Court (a.k.a., the Trump Court) has proven itself a particularly willing and easy mark.

David L. Snell Franklin

Got workers?

Thank immigrants

To the Editor:

Why are people so afraid of immigrants, treating them as the other while regularly slandering and marginalizing them? The truth is immigrants contribute greatly to our work force and our economy, paying into Social Security and Medicare with no hope of benefitting from the programs.

Worried about your benefits? The truth is in 2019 undocumented immigrants paid $165.9 billion to Social Security and $45.1 billion into Medicare, with no path to claiming those benefits. The truth is immigrants are not taking our benefits.

Worried about crime? Immigrants are repeatedly accused of bringing crime into the

United States. Violent crime rates dropped in 2021 and 2022 and then significantly dropped in 2023. A study from Stanford University revealed that immigrants are 30% less likely to be incarcerated than are U.S. born individuals that are white. Abramitsky et al reported that recent waves of immigrants are more likely to be employed, married with children and in good health, far from the disease-ridden rapists and drug dealers that anti-immigrant politicians claim them to be.

Let’s talk about North Carolina. When COVID was raging, and the administration enforced extreme separation laws, immigration numbers dropped, having a negative economic impact on our state. With an aging population work force numbers are naturally dropping and without immigrants there is a risk of the economy becoming depressed. Immigrants tend to be of prime working age and show up and do the job at a greater rate than their native-born counterparts. Immigrants are vital to maintaining, and growing, our agricultural, construction and hospitality economy.

Republicans have proposed the following if they gain the presidency this fall: Increasing the number of agents for ICE raids, building detention camps to hold undocumented immigrants awaiting mass deportation, reinstating the ban on immigrants from some or most Muslim countries, and ending birthright citizenship for children

F

born to undocumented immigrants.

Immigrants come to this country full of hope for a better life for themselves and their children. Painting them with a broad brush of criminality is harming whole communities. Historically we are a country built by immigrants. There is rarely a person among us who is not descended from immigrants who frequently lived life as a secondclass citizen as they assimilated. They took jobs others rejected as the country grew.

• Women who won’t — or can’t — have children shouldn’t be allowed to vote (J.D. Vance, Republican U.S. Senator from Ohio and would-be vice president).

• Mark Robinson, North Carolina Lieutenant Governor and Republican candidate for N.C. Governor, said women should never be allowed to terminate a pregnancy even if they were raped because “they didn’t keep their skirts down.” By the way, he paid for his own wife’s abortion a few years back.

How different is that than today? Isn’t it time we welcome immigrants rather than demean them? Slamming the door on immigration will ultimately do more harm than good for our country.

Margaret Pickett Highlands

Gullible Republicans are a problem

To the Editor:

I was really not surprised that a onceresponsible political organization allowed its representative to peddle hilarious falsehoods. Mr. Stello, chairman of the Haywood County Republican Party, claimed that volunteers for the Democratic Party are being paid by foreign organizations (From the August 7 edition of The Mountaineer). I must have missed my check in the mail. I have been volunteering for the Haywood County Democratic Party for about 30 years and still haven’t got my check!

Mr. Stello is probably one of those gullible personalities who believe other bizarre and weird ideas promoted by Russian trolls and paranoid conspiracy theorists here at home. For example:

• California wildfires were caused by Jewish lasers from space (Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican congresswomen from Georgia and serial adulterer).

• Women who have been raped can’t get pregnant because their bodies shut down. (Tod Akin, former Republican Congressman of Missouri).

• Drink Clorox to cure COVID (Donald J. Trump, former President of the United States and proud self-proclaimed grabber of women’s private parts and serial adulterer).

doings, but the execution often tells a different story. The power vested in the masses to “cancel” an individual or organization raises questions about due process, fairness and the fine line between accountability and disproportionate repercussions.

The most concerning aspect of cancel culture is its susceptibility to politicization. Combining cancel culture with political agendas can lead to orchestrated campaigns to silence dissent and perpetuate a culture of fear. The very essence of democracy, which thrives on diverse opinions and healthy debate, stands threatened in the face of such cancellations.

As cancel culture seeps into society, the fine balance between freedom of speech and the need for accountability becomes increasingly precarious. The insanity of cancel culture lies not in its intent to call out injustices but in the unchecked power it wields and the damage it inflicts.

As we navigate the complexities of this digital age, it is imperative to distinguish between genuine accountability and the pitfalls of censorship, abuse and political overreach that lurk beneath the surface of digital condemnation. In a world where a tweet can spark a firestorm and a post can lead to public shaming, we must strive for a saner approach to addressing wrongs.

the mercy of the courts without due process. Writing a letter such as this could be a crime, printing also a crime. Freedom of speech could be a thing of the past. We have only to look at Hungary and how the free press has become less than free under the autocratic rule of Victor Orban to see the future.

Mr. Stello, like many of his party, throws around the “communists are coming to get you” bogeyman tactic yet he has not the slightest idea about the real “communist threat,” which is Vladimir Putin, who despite Mr. Trump’s admiration was trained as a Soviet secret police agent in the arts of murder and deceit and hates everything America stands for. If Republicans are truly worried about communist aggression, they should support Ukraine (talking to you, Sen. J.D. Vance).

All I can say is, great Republicans of the past from Lincoln to Teddy Roosevelt to Eisenhower must be shaking their heads in disbelief at the ignorance and dishonesty that has come to pollute a once legitimate political organization.

Steve Wall Waynesville

Time to cancel ‘cancel culture’

To the Editor:

The rise of cancel culture has sparked controversies and raised concerns over the impact of digital condemnation.

Cancel culture reflects an underlying social force, moral policing and the power of online mobs, which often veers into the territory of censorship, overreach and even abuse. What might have started as a means of holding public figures accountable has now evolved into a trend spiraling out of control. The digital age has given us the power of immediate and widespread connectivity, inadvertently accelerating cancel culture reach and impact.

Canceling culture may sometimes be rooted in genuine efforts to address wrong-

Remember, in the realm of cancel culture, the real power lies not in the act of cancellation but in the act of compassion and understanding that can pave the way for a more empathetic and just society. Let us cancel the culture of canceling and instead embrace a culture of growth, learning and redemption.

Lynn Adams Waynesville

Dictator for a day,

or president for life?

To the Editor:

Former President Donald Trump is known to be an admirer of autocratic rulers, particularly President Xi Jinping of China. According to CNN, when Trump heard that Xi was about to be gifted a constitutional amendment that would eliminate term limits for the president, Trump was reported to have said “He’s now president for life, and he’s great. I think it’s great. Maybe we’ll give that a shot someday.” This is the same man who recently said he would like to be “Dictator for a Day.” Can you imagine anyone giving up that kind of power after a day, let alone Trump?

Recent changes in our law, a gift of our politicized Supreme Court, renders our president bullet proof by making him/her immune from prosecution for official acts. With the Project 2025 agenda enacted by a president where absolute power is bestowed on the executive branch, one can only imagine what life could be like for the average citizen.

If the Justice Department comes under the control of the White House, citizen arrests could become common. Anyone could be conceived as an enemy of the state, and like Russian citizens, find themselves at

If a president decides to round up and detain illegals until they can be shipped out of the country, we could all have reason to fear. While federal law known as the Posse Comitatus Act generally forbids the use of the armed forces for law enforcement purposes, another law called the Insurrection Act creates an exception. This could enable the president to mobilize Federal troops to build detention camps and apprehend illegal residents. Much of this is laid out in Project 2025. And it is not a leap to imagine American citizens having to carry their birth certificate as proof of citizenship, running the risk of that document being declared fake. Citizens could be denied legal counsel and held against their will with no legal recourse. When one thinks about how power corrupts it is not hard to imagine how the power to arrest illegals could be abused. And if the president decides to close the borders of the country to keep illegals out who is to say that effort won’t be used to detain citizens in the country. Freedom to travel out of the country for work or pleasure could be curtailed and only granted at the behest of the government. Interstate travel could be limited just as easily. Since there is already discussion of tracking women seeking reproductive care outside of their state of residence it is not difficult to imagine.

There are so many ways the government under a dictator could eliminate the freedoms we take for granted that it is impossible to enumerate them here. If we look to current and recent countries under autocratic rule, we know that the availability of goods and services under government control can be severely limited, to include healthcare, education, housing, food, transportation or as the case of China the right to procreate.

At this moment in time our rights are protected by the rule of law. If it continues to be undermined by the present Supreme Court in conjunction with the Executive Branch our way of life could erode and become recognizable only in books. Except those could be banned and the teaching of history could be forbidden. Isn’t that already being attempted?

We the people have served our country in many ways, including military service. Many have sacrificed their lives to save our democracy, however imperfect. It is our duty to follow their lead and fight with our votes to protect the freedoms we have enjoyed and taken for granted. Going back to a time when power was in the hands of the few is not an option. As a veteran myself, I hope not to see over 200 years of service and sacrifice thrown away to serve the vain, grandiose and dictatorial ambition of one man, one political faction or one religious sect. Robert G. Wertzler Franklin

Melodies of love

Asheville Mountain Boys to play Sylva

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

The sheer beauty and fundamental foundation of bluegrass music resides in one simple truth about the tones, textures and talents within the “high, lonesome sound” — its timelessness.

A song written and recorded a century ago can (and often does) sound as fresh, relevant and soothing right now in this exact moment in time. Whereas something conceived and captured today could have the same historic parameters and effect on the sentimental, jovial mindset as it did decades previous.

Case-in-point, the Asheville Mountain Boys are the latest bluegrass ensemble to make waves around Western North Carolina when it comes to real deal, high-quality acoustic melodies in the realms of Americana, folk, roots and mountain music.

Want to go?

ance here in Asheville, but big names in old-time fiddle music like Marcus Martin and Wade Mainer also lived nearby. In addition to these historical bluegrass connections, Asheville is an inspiring place to be an artist given all the creative projects and spaces going on around town. We’ve been fortunate to collaborate with local businesses like Parkway Studios for videos, recording and graphic design, as well as Lightning Bolt Ink for embroidery and merchandise.

SMN: You’ve a group that truly moves at its own rhythm and pace. Where does that sentiment and ethos come from within you?

JD: The work ethic of the band is inspired from the practice schedule of JD Crowe and Paul Williams from their time with Jimmy Martin. We were inspired to learn how much they practiced, and we get together to practice vocals and work with the metronome twice a week. We want to deliver the best traditional bluegrass experience to our audiences.

“The themes in bluegrass music are universal and timeless which makes it easily accessible to the listener.”

— John Duncan

SMN: In a modern era of digital distraction and white noise, what is the role of the musician/performer, more so the acoustic performer/ensemble, in the 21st century?

Marshall Brown: We’re constantly assaulted with music intended to be in the background. From retail stores to advertisements, music has sort of become an appendage of consumption habits.

A super-group of sorts, the outfit is a well-oiled machine of some of the finest pickers and grinners around in Southern Appalachia. It features John Duncan (banjo/fiddle), Zeb Gambill (mandolin), Jacob Brewer (bass) and Marshall Brown (guitar).

To note, the band’s self-titled debut album will hit the streets and all streaming services next spring. And with its increasingly busy touring schedule around this region, the Asheville Mountain Boys will make its Sylva debut on Aug. 30 at Breadheads Tiki Shak on Main Street.

Smoky Mountain News: With the origins of the Asheville Mountain Boys, how was the initial seed planted for this group? What sparked this journey?

John Duncan: We’ve known each other for years through going to fiddlers’ conventions and jamming together. Then, in 2023, Marshall was putting together a solo album that had all of us on it. After playing a few album release shows, they went so well and we were having so much fun playing together, we decided to form a new band.

SMN: What was it about the greater Western North Carolina scene — of people, of culture, and of live music — that make it such a great incubator for the development and evolution of the band?

JD: Asheville is a historical landmark for early bluegrass and hillbilly music. Not only was Bill Monroe’s first radio perform-

We’ve been fortunate to play some amazing venues and listening rooms, where it’s really all about the performance. Some of our favorite shows have been DIY barn performances and rural community centers. Those audiences have been some of the most enthusiastic and encouraging crowds we’ve encountered.

We want to continue to bring intimate performances of traditional bluegrass to people all around the country, because it really is some of the most exciting and emotionally moving music around.

SMN: What is it about bluegrass — whether sonically, emotionally, spiritually or otherwise — that really sets it apart from other genres?

JD: The harmony and rhythm of bluegrass is really compelling to us as performers. We love the intense sonic and emotional content of bluegrass harmony. The themes in bluegrass music are universal and timeless which makes it easily accessible to the listener. We live for the challenge of performing live and giving the audience a great experience.

SMN: In this uncertain era of the music industry, what is it that keeps you going and inspired to push ahead and overcome the tough challenges of being a musical act that records and performs in the digital age?

Jacob Brewer: We’re lucky to get along so well with each other in the band that it’s rewarding enough just to play and travel together in the first place.

As for the modern music industry, we are attempting to bring back the methods of recording — all live, no overdubs  and work ethics of classic bluegrass bands like Jimmy Martin & The Sunny Mountain Boys.

This focused attempt to emulate the methods of classic bluegrass bands in the musical climate of today is a goal that keeps us focused and driven.

Asheville Mountain Boys are an Americana/bluegrass act. File photo

This must be the place

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

‘That’s the story of my life rich or poor and mostly poor and truly poor’

To preface, this column does not reflect the views or opinions of this publication. For the last 12 years, this weekly column has been (and will remain) a vessel to conjure and express my own personal thoughts amid the wanderings and ponderings of my existence.

And so, it was this past Sunday. Early afternoon. A hot sun and a few miles of jogging were at hand for myself. Alone in my mind and actions. Trotting through the Historic Frog Level District like I have hundreds and hundreds of times over my 12 years calling downtown Waynesville home.

Covered in glorious sweat from a joyous run around town, I circled back to my humble abode apartment near Russ Avenue. Cruising down Boundary Street alongside the railroad tracks, I could hear some yelling from up ahead. F-bombs and arms flailing in the air.

It was a homeless couple in their 30s or so. Male and female, with the female cursing the dude out about not sharing his drugs with her. Apparently, it seemed the dude in question had a secret stash and didn’t tell his partner. I focused my eyes ahead and slowly passed by without judgment. My hopes radiating out into the universe that they find solace and healing at some juncture soon.

In the final quarter-mile of the jog, it was amazing all the vast and intricate memories and sentiments that rolled across my field-ofvision when contemplating and reflecting on the observed duo in question. Feelings of compassion and of concern for not only the couple, but also the other countless faces we’ve all seen in our respective paths along the often-bumpy road of life.

First off, I thought of numerous folks in my own life and travels that I’ve known with serious addiction issues, usually resulting from trauma as a child, teenager or adult. I think of loved ones whose funerals I’ve attended who passed away too young from drugs and alcohol, as well as suicide. Too many to count. Each face lost or troubled as unique and different as the ways and means that led them to these choppy waters of emotions and consumption.

As those images flashed within my mind, so did the quote from Jack Kerouac, the late writer who sparked my interest in the written word, in adventure and in interaction with fellow humans. While rereading “The Dharma Bums” recently (for the hundredth time), the seminal 1958 novel, I kept thinking about a quote of his in the work that I’ve carried with me for almost 20 years: “Practice charity without holding in mind any conceptions about charity, for charity after all is just a word.”

In short, be kind to be kind. And do so

I’ve been, once again, rambling about something or another. But, I figure, with all the chaos and confusion on this hurtling rock through space of ours called Earth, we can at least help others. With my extensive travels this summer from coast-to-coast, I’ve seen plenty of couples and solo folks like the railroad folks at the beginning of this article.

From Whitefish, Montana, to Portland, Maine, St. Augustine, Florida, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and beyond. The scene and the sentiment from both sides of the observation remain the same, sadly. In this election year, I hold out hope that, for whoever wins the White House, we can come together as a country and help each other, whether it be those I feel compassion for living on the streets or all of those incredible people who aim to help others — counselors, social workers, teachers, law enforcement, etc.

Sure, you may scoff and say I’m just another starry-eyed optimist in an all too crazy and unsalvageable world. But, I counter you, for what else is there to live for in this life of ours if there’s isn’t hope for a better tomorrow? Might as well pack it in and call it a day if you think everything is going to hell in a handbasket, eh?

without expectation or reward. Reach out to fellow man and uplift them with what little you have to offer. A dollar bill or pocket change. Bottle of water. Can of soda. Can of soup. Leftovers from the nice dinner you and your significant other just enjoyed after a night on the town. Perhaps even a car ride if you feel safe and secure enough in your instincts.

For myself, I come from the camp of helping fellow man and not ignoring the homeless or houseless or those perceived as “crazy” by society. Most folks in those situations simply want to be seen, with their existence acknowledged by others in passing. Don’t look away. Again, it the situation is safe and secure, make eye contact and smile. This is another human being for crying out loud.

Now, don’t get me wrong, if the situation seems unsafe, steer clear and give said folks the proper amount of space to be left in peace. But, in many of my interactions where a homeless person has said hello and such, I say a genuine hello back along with, “How are you doing, my friend?” Usually they’ll perk up because you “see” them. And usually I’ll hand them a dollar or buy them a meal nearby. It is what it is. Why do I do it? They need it more than I do. Granted, I don’t have much, in terms of money and such, as a fulltime writer who survives financially on these words you’re currently reading. But, I do have more than that person in need of a dollar for a candy bar or a box of my leftover chicken and pasta from a pleasant dinner at Vinnie’s in North Asheville. Give what you can, even if it’s only a kind moment of conversation with a human being in need of what we all desire — to be loved and to be heard.

At this point in the column, I’ve realized

Well, my brothers and sisters, it’s never too late to practice kindness, regardless of who you’re encountering or where it may take place. Remember that Kerouac quote way back in a previous paragraph. Keep it tucked deep inside the front pocket of your heart and soul. It may come in handy someday, hopefully.

Life is beautiful, grasp for it, y’all.

HOT PICKS

1

Classic rock legends The Marshall Tucker Band and Haywood County bluegrass sensation Balsam Range will headline the 116th Canton Labor Day gathering, which will take place Sept. 1-2 at Sorrells Street Park in downtown.

2

The 15th season of the annual “Concerts on the Creek” music series will present Haywood County Americana/indie act The Maggie Valley Band at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva.

3

A special production of “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30-31, Sept. 6-7, 13-14, 19-21 and 2 p.m. Sept. 1, 8, 15 and 22 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

4

The “An Appalachian Evening” series will continue with a performance by Balsam Range at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, in Lynn L. Shields Auditorium at the Stecoah Valley Center in Robbinsville.

5

The annual Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 31-Sept. 1 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

The Wasatch Mountains of Utah. Garret K. Woodward photo

On the stage

HART presents ‘Great American Trailer Park’

A special production of “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30-31, Sept. 6-7, 13-14, 19-21 and 2 p.m. Sept. 1, 8, 15 and 22 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

Set in Armadillo Acres, Florida’s most exclusive trailer park, “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” dives into the quirky lives of its residents. When Pippi, a stripper on the run, stirs up trouble in the neighborhood, it leads to a love triangle, a kidnapping, and plenty of drama — all served with a side of laughter and a whole lot of Southern charm.

The musical, written by David Nehls and Betsy Kelso, has been a hit since it first premiered, captivating audiences with its unique blend of humor, heart and toe-tapping tunes. Tickets start at $18 and up. To purchase tickets, call the HART Box Office at 828.456.6322 or go to harttheatre.org. HART Box Office hours are Tuesday-Friday from noon to 5 p.m. HART is located at 250 Pigeon St. in Waynesville.

• “HART’s 40th Anniversary Gala” will be held from 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville. Live music from the Smoky Mountain Brass Band, cocktails and dinner catered by Singletree Heritage Kitchen. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, call 828.456.6322 or email boxoffice@harttheatre.org.

• Peacock Performing Arts Center (Hayesville) will host semi-regular stage productions on the weekends. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays unless otherwise noted. For

On

• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host a craft beer tasting with Edmund’s Oast Brewing from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, and French Broad River Brewing 57 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / blueridgebeerhub.com.

• Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host “Drop By Wine & Cheese Tastings” from 34:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31. The cost is $10 per person. No reservation required. 828.452.6000 or classicwineseller.com.

more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to thepeacocknc.org or call 828.389.ARTS.

• Highlands Performing Arts Center will host semi-regular stage productions on the weekends. For more information, a full schedule of events and/or to purchase tickets, go to highlandsperformingarts.com.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host semi-regular stage productions on the weekends. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, call 866.273.4615 or go to smokymountainarts.com.

• “Flights & Bites” will be held starting at 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville. For more information on upcoming events, wine tastings and special dinners, go to waynesvillewine.com.

• “Take A Flight” with four new wines every Friday and Saturdays at the Bryson City Wine Market. Select from a gourmet selection of charcuterie to enjoy with your wines. Educational classes and other events are also available. For more information, call 828.538.0420.

• “Uncorked: Wine & Rail Pairing Experience” will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on select dates at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City. Full service all-adult first class car. Wine pairings with a meal, and more. There will also be a special “Beer Train” on select dates. For more information and/or to register, call 800.872.4681 or go to gsmr.com.

‘The Great American Trailer Park Musical’ will be at HART on select dates. Donated photo

On the beat

Marshall Tucker Band to headline Canton Labor Day

• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host Paul Koptak Sept. 7. All shows begin at 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / blueridgebeerhub.com.

• Boojum Brewing (Waynesville) will host The Loudes Aug. 31 and Human Nip Sept. 7. All shows are located in The Gem downstairs taproom and begin at 9 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.246.0350 / boojumbrewing.com.

• Bryson City Brewing (Bryson City) will host The Freeway Jubilee (rock/jam) 8 p.m. Sept. 7. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0085 / brysoncitybrewing.com.

• Cataloochee Ranch (Maggie Valley) will host Marc & Anita Pruett (Americana/bluegrass) 4 p.m. Sept. 29. For tickets and reservations, go to cataloocheeranch.com/ranchevents/live-music.

• Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Ron Lee (swing/jazz) 6:30 p.m. Sept. 7. Tickets are $75 per person (includes entertainment, dinner, tax and gratuity). To RSVP, 828.452.6000 / classicwineseller.com.

• Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Orchard Sessions” w/Martin & Kelly (Americana/country) Sept. 12. All shows begin at 6 p.m. 866.526.8008 / oldedwardshospitality.com/orchardsessions.

• Friday Night Live (Highlands) will host Spare Parts Bluegrass Band (Americana/bluegrass) Aug. 30 and Johnny Webb Band Sept. 6 at Town Square on Main Street. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Tuesdays Jazz Series w/We Three Swing at 5:30 p.m. each week and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 / froglevelbrewing.com.

• Frog Quarters (Franklin) will host live music

from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays w/Jim Austin’s Classic Country Band (Americana/country) Aug. 31. Free and open to the public. Located at 573 East Main St. 828.369.8488 / littletennessee.org.

• Groovin’ on the Green (Cashiers) will host Pretty Little Goat (Americana/bluegrass) Aug. 30 and Back Porch Orchestra Sept. 6. Shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. Donations encouraged. villagegreencashiersnc.com/concerts.

• Happ’s Place (Glenville) will host Doug Ramsey (singer-songwriter) Aug. 29, 31, Sept. 2, 7 and 9 and Charles Walker (singer-songwriter) Aug. 30. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.742.5700 / happsplace.com.

• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host ZZ Top (classic rock) 9 p.m. Sept. 6. Tickets start at $79.50 per person. caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee.

• Highlander Mountain House (Highlands) will host “Blues & Brews” on Thursday evenings, “Sunday Bluegrass Residency” from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Caleb Caudle & The Sweet Critters (Americana/folk) 8:30 p.m. Aug. 29 ($25 per person). 828.526.2590 / highlandermountainhouse.com.

• Highlands Performing Arts Center will host End Of The Line (Allman Brothers Band tribute/southern rock) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7. Tickets are $50 per person. 828.526.9047 / highlandsperformingarts.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host Blue Jazz (blues/jazz) Sept. 7. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host “Music Bingo” 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Nicole Boggs & The Reel (rock/blues) Aug. 30 and Blue Jazz (blues/jazz) Sept. 6. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public unless otherwise

Classic rock legends The Marshall Tucker Band and Haywood County bluegrass sensation Balsam Range will headline the 116th Canton Labor Day gathering, which will take place Sept. 1-2 at Sorrells Street Park in downtown. Other acts to perform include Dirty Grass Soul, Darren Nicholson Band, The Brothers Gillespie, The Super 60s, Outlaw Whiskey and more.

The Canton Labor Day Festival is a celebration of all things made in Western North Carolina. As the oldest festival of its kind in the south, Canton Labor Day honors the blue-collar workers who power our economy with their bare hands and deliver the products and services upon which we all depend.

Tickets are $15 for a two-day pass or $10 at the gate each day. Kids ages 12 and under are admitted free. For more information, a full schedule of events and activities or to purchase tickets, go to cantonlaborday.com.

noted. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Legends Sports Bar & Grill (Maggie Valley) will host an “Open Mic Night” 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday. Free and open to the public. 828.944.0403 / facebook.com/legendssportsgrillmaggievalley.

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host “Open Mic Night” w/Frank Lee every Wednesday, Bridget Gossett (singer-songwriter) Aug. 30, Ron Neill (singer-songwriter) Aug. 31, Frank Lee (Americana/old-time) Sept. 1 and Aces Down Sept. 2. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 / mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

ALSO:

• Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala Gorge) will host Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) 5 p.m. Aug. 30, Whitney Monge (indie/soul) 1 p.m. Aug. 31, Dub Cartel (reggae/soul) 5 p.m. Sept. 1 and Log Noggins (rock/country) 5 p.m. Sept. 2. Free and open to the public. 828.785.5082 / noc.com.

• Peacock Performing Arts Center (Hayesville) will host “The Prince of Cool: The Vocal & Trumpet of Chet Baker” 7:30 p.m. Aug. 31 and Stairway To Zeppelin (Led Zeppelin tribute/classic rock) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7. For tickets, 828.389.ARTS / thepeacocknc.org.

• Pickin’ In The Park (Canton) will host Running Wolfe (band) & Balsam Mountain (dancers) Aug. 30 and Rick Morris (band) w/dancers TBA Sept. 6. Shows are 6-9 p.m. at the Canton Rec Park located at 77 Penland Street. Free and open to the public. cantonnc.com/pickin-in-the-park.

• Pickin’ On The Square (Franklin) will host Two Weeks Notice (classic rock/country) Sept. 14. All shows begin at 6 p.m. at the Gazebo in downtown. Free and open to the public. franklinnc.com/pickin-on-the-square.html.

• Pub 319 (Waynesville) will host Bridget

Gossett (singer-songwriter) Aug. 29, Lauren Southern Band Sept. 2, Connor Hunt (singersongwriter) Sept. 5 and Rene Russell (singersongwriter) Sept. 9. All shows begin at 7 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.456.3040 / pub319socialhouse.com.

• Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host Karaoke 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Trivia Night 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Bo Bullman (singer-songwriter) Aug. 31. Free and open to the public. 828.369.6796 / facebook.com/rathskellercoffeebarandpub.

• Saturdays On Pine (Highlands) will host Full Circle Aug. 31 and Steel Toe Stiletto Sept. 7 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Park on Pine Street. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.

• Scotsman (Waynesville) will host Andy Ferrell (singer-songwriter) Aug. 29, 5000LB Tractor (southern rock) Aug. 30 and Jon Cox (country/rock) Sept. 5. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 / scotsmanpublic.com.

• Slanted Window Tasting Station (Franklin) will host Jennifer Alvarado (singer-songwriter) 5 p.m. Aug. 30 828.276.9463 / slantedwindow.com.

• SlopeSide Tavern (Sapphire) will host Seth & Sara Sept. 5. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.743.8655 / slopesidetavern.com.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host Departure (Journey tribute/classic rock) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7. 866.273.4615 / smokymountainarts.com.

• Stubborn Bull (Highlands) will host “Live Music Mondays” w/L.C. Branch (singer-songwriter) Sept. 2 and Adam & Caroline Sept. 9. All shows begin at 5:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. the-stubborn-bull.com.

• Unplugged Pub (Bryson City) will host Rich

Marshall Tucker Band will play Canton Labor Day Sept. 1. File photo

The “An Appalachian Evening” series will continue with a performance by Balsam Range at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, in Lynn L. Shields Auditorium at the Stecoah Valley Center in Robbinsville.

‘An Appalachian Evening’

Bryson City community jam

A community jam will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer or anything unplugged is invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen. The jam is facilitated by Larry Barnett of the Sawmill Creek Porch Band.

The community jams offer a chance for musicians of all ages and levels of ability to share music they have learned over the years or learn old-time mountain songs. The music jams are offered to the public each first and third Thursday of the month — spring, summer, fall.

This program received support from the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of North Carolina and the National Endowment of the Arts.

For more information, call 828.488.3030.

Folkmoot celebrates Eurasian Culture

Folkmoot USA will present an electrifying evening of music and cultural celebration with the Black Sea Beat Society at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at the Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville.

Renowned for their fusion of traditional Balkan, Turkish and Middle Eastern music with a vibrant rock-n-roll energy, the Black Sea Beat Society is set to deliver an unforgettable experience. This high-energy band captivates audiences with a diverse repertoire spanning Balkan Brass, Turkish Psychedelic, Middle Eastern classics and Klezmer tunes. Featuring accordion, a dynamic horn section, telecaster guitar and drums, the performances are a thrilling blend of authenticity and innovation.

The Black Sea Beat Society delves deep into the roots of each song, immersing themselves in the cultures and source recordings to offer truly traditional Eurasian music with a modern twist. Doors at 6 p.m. Admission is “Pay What You Can” ($22, $15, $10, $5, $0). Donations are welcome. In addition to the vibrant musical performance, attendees can enjoy delicious offerings from the Tahini Jar Food Truck. which will be onsite.

For more information and/or to purchase tickets, go to folkmoot.org.

The Maggie Valley Band will play Sylva Aug. 30. File photo

Manz Trio (acoustic/oldies) Aug. 29 (free), Kayla McKinney Aug. 30, Blackwater Station Aug. 31, Karaoke w/Lori (free) Sept. 5, Second Chance Sept. 6 and Outlaw Whiskey (classic rock/country gold) Sept. 7. All shows are $5 at the door unless otherwise noted and begin at 8 p.m. 828.538.2488 / unpluggedpub.com.

• Valley Cigar & Wine Co. (Waynesville) will host Rich Manz Trio (acoustic/oldies) 2 p.m. Sept. 1. Free and open to the public. 828.944.0686 / valleycigarandwineco.com.

• Whiteside Brewing (Cashiers) will host Arnold Hill (rock/jam) Aug. 30 and Spare Parts

Since its inception in 2007, Balsam Range has become one of the most decorated and award-winning acts in the wide world of bluegrass music. The band has taken home the following International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) honors: “Entertainer of the Year” (2014, 2018), “Album of the Year” (2013, 2017), “Song of the Year” (2011, 2015) and “Vocal Group of the Year” (2014, 2015), with Melton named “Male Vocalist of the Year” (2014, 2018) and Tim Surrett “Bass Player of the Year” (2018).

Tickets are $40 for adults, $10 for students grade K-12. Dinner will also be available for purchase in the Schoolhouse Cafe starting at 6 p.m.

For more information and/or to purchase tickets, call 828.479.3364 or go to stecoahvalleycenter.com.

‘Concerts on the Creek’

The Town of Sylva, Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the 15th season of the annual “Concerts on the Creek” music series.

Haywood County Americana/indie act The Maggie Valley Band will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva.

“Concerts on the Creek” are held every Friday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Everyone is encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. These events are free, but donations are encouraged. Dogs must be on a leash. No smoking, vaping, coolers or tents are allowed. There will be food trucks on site for this event.

For more information, call the chamber at 828.586.2155, visit mountainlovers.com/concerts-on-the-creek or go to the “Concerts on the Creek” Facebook page.

Bluegrass Band (Americana/bluegrass) Aug. 31. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.743.6000 / whitesidebrewing.com.

• Yonder Community Market (Franklin) will host Amanda Neill & Liliana Hudgens (Americana/folk) 7 p.m. Aug. 31 and Stevie Tombstone (Americana/folk) 4 p.m. Sept. 8. Family friendly, dog friendly. 828.200.2169 / eatrealfoodinc.com.

• Find more at smokymountainnews.com/arts

Balsam Range will play Robbinsville Aug. 31. File photo

Black Sea Beat Society will play Waynesville Sept. 5. File photo

On the wall

• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host “ArtWorks” at 1 p.m. every second Thursday of the month, with the next workshop being Aug. 8. Come create your own masterpiece. The materials for art works are supplied and participants are welcome to bring ideas and supplies to share with each other. Free and open to the public. To register, please call the library at 828.488.3030 or email vroberson@fontanalib.org.

• Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala Gorge) will host a “Summer Artisan Market” from noon to 5 p.m. the second Saturday of the month (May- September). Free and open to the public. noc.com.

• “Art & Artisan Walk” will be held from 5-8 p.m. every third Thursday of the month (MayDecember) in Bryson City. Stroll the streets in the evening and discover handcrafted items, artwork, jewelry, pottery, antiques and more. Look for the yellow and blue balloons identifying participating businesses hosting artists. greatsmokies.com.

• “Art After Dark” will be held from 6-9 p.m. each first Friday of the month (May-December) in downtown Waynesville. Main Street transforms into an evening of art, live music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors alike. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to downtownwaynesville.com.

• Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host an adult arts and crafts program at 1 p.m. every second Thursday of the month. Ages 16 and up. Space is limited to 10 participants. Free and open to the public. To register, call 828.488.3030 or email vroberson@fontanalib.org.

• CRE828 (Waynesville) will offer a selection of art classes and workshops at its studio located at 1283 Asheville Road. For a full list of classes, go to cre828.com. For more information on CRE828, email dawn@cre828.com or call 828.283.0523.

• Gallery Zella (Bryson City) will be hosting an array of artist receptions, exhibits and showcases. The gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For more information, go to galleryzella.com or call 517.881.0959.

• Waynesville Photography Club meets at 7 p.m. every third Monday each month on the second floor of the Haywood Regional Health & Fitness Center in Clyde. They welcome photographers of all skill levels to share ideas and images at the monthly meetings. For more information, email waynesvillephotoclub@charter.net or follow them on Facebook: Waynesville Photography Club.

• Haywood County Arts Council (Waynesville) will offer a wide-range of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. The HCAC gallery is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. For more information and a full schedule, go to haywoodarts.org.

• Jackson County Green Energy Park (Dillsboro) will be offering a slew of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. For more information and a full schedule, go to jcgep.org.

• Southwestern Community College Swain Arts Center (Bryson City) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. For more information on the upcoming classes and/or to sign-up, go to southwesterncc.edu/scc-locations/swaincenter.

• Dogwood Crafters in Dillsboro will offer a selection of upcoming art classes and workshops. For more information and a full schedule of activities, go to dogwoodcrafters.com/classes or call 828.586.2248.

• Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host semi-regular arts and crafts workshops. For more information, go to coweeschool.org/events.

On the street

Want to learn contra dancing?

There will be a contra dance class offered from 6:30-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

Contra dance is considered the most accessible and sociable of all dances, with participants moving in two long facing lines or in groups, and with frequent partner changes. With its roots in the British Isles and France, contra dance has become a traditional American dance form.

Waynesville art walk, live music

A cherished gathering of locals and visitors alike, “Art After Dark” will continue its 2024 season from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, in downtown Waynesville.

Each first Friday of the month (May-December), Main Street transforms into an evening of art, live music, finger foods, beverages and shopping as artisan studios and galleries keep their doors open later for local residents and visitors alike.

No experience is needed to contra dance. All dances are taught. Beginners’ lessons start at 6:30 p.m., with dancing from 7-9 p.m. No need to bring a partner, but you’re welcome to do so. You may also bring a closed water container and snack. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Please don’t wear perfumes or strong scents.

Admission is by donation, which helps pay for the musicians and callers for the evening. First-time attendees and children are admitted free. The event is produced by the Arts Council, Friends of Contra Dance in Macon County and the Macon County Public Library. For more information, call 828.524.ARTS or email arts4all@dnet.net.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to downtownwaynesville.com.

Experience ‘Textures’ at Haywood Arts

The Haywood County Arts Council’s (HCAC) latest exhibit, “Textures,” will run through Sept. 1 at the HCAC gallery on Main Street in downtown Waynesville. Showcasing a rich tapestry of artistic mediums including ceramics, woodwork, felt, mosaic, fabric, macrame, collage and more, this diversified exhibition promises to have something for every art enthusiast. For more information, go to haywoodarts.org.

Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show

The annual Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 31-Sept. 1 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

Maggie Valley’s largest gathering of artisans and crafters come together to sell their handmade treasures. Artisans from all over the Southeast will be in attendance.

Chainsaw art demonstrations and lots of festival food. Seasonal items, yard art, paintings, photography, pottery, wooden bowls, furniture, jewelry, goat milk soaps and more will be featured at the event.

“There really is something for everyone, from the most affordable handicrafts, to the more expensive museum quality items,” said Teresa Smith, promoter of the event.

Arts and crafts come together in Maggie Valley Aug. 31-Sept. 1. File photo

Food trucks and beverage vendors will also be onsite. The event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated. Parking is free.

For more information, go to maggievalleyfestivalgrounds.com.

‘Thunder in the Smokies’

The annual “Thunder in the Smokies” rally will be held Sept. 6-8 at the Maggie Valley Fairgrounds.

The oldest and largest motorcycle rally in the Great Smoky Mountains, the weekend celebration will feature live music, dozens of vendors, motorcycle shows/games, prizes and much more. For more information, a full schedule of events and/or to purchase tickets, go to thunderinthesmokies.com.

Grumpy Bear Campground & RV Park (Bryson City) will host a “Native American Show” 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Free and open to the public. Donations encouraged. 828.788.2095 or grumpybearcampground.com.

‘Thunder in the Smokies’ returns to Maggie Valley. File photo

Richard Baker is a featured artisan at ‘Art After Dark.’ File photo

Work by Lindsay Keeling. Donated photo

In this book, old-time means good time

Over 30 years ago, I read Helen Hooven Santmyer’s “And Ladies of the Club,” a doorstopper of a book chronicling life in a small Ohio town from the postCivil War era to the early 1930s. Through her use of detail and her keen eye for manners and customs, Santmyer recreated an era that seemed so very distant from the late twentieth century, and even more so from today’s culture, yet her characters bridged the gap, becoming friends and neighbors as we grew acquainted with them.

Willie Elmore’s eventual success as a pastor; Laura’s first experience with love: all these make up this tapestry of relationships.

Heartwell’s slightly formal prose, quite different from much fiction that appears

Proal Heartwell’s “The Boarding House” (Lightfoot Press, 2024, 438 pages) brought the same pleasant sensations: the delight of an old-fashioned story about ordinary people, the use of detail to recreate a bygone era, and the feeling that the author is serving as an unobtrusive guide through a living museum.

Central to the plot of Heartwell’s novel is the boarding house in the small Virginia town of Lawrenceville. It’s 1927, and a widow, Louvenia Hicks, with help from her 16-year-old daughter Laura, is operating this establishment after the death of her husband and young son Charlie in the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918-1920. The boarding house’s newest resident is Robert Martin, a native of Richmond and a new graduate of the University of Virginia, who has arrived in Lawrenceville to teach English literature and composition in the town’s high school.

The other boarders — the young budding Methodist minister Willie Elmore, the Northerner Paul Allen, who had long ago made Lawrenceville his home, and Mosby Daniels, who manages a crew at the local railway yard — are also central pieces in this mosaic of small town America a century ago. Daniels acts as a sort of protective godfather to Laura, and is adored by her for that reason, and all the men treat Mrs. Hicks with respect and esteem.

All of these people share their story with readers. We learn, for instance, how the death of Mrs. Hick’s husband and Charlie continue to haunt her and Laura. We follow along as Robert falls in love with a bright college student, Suzanne, the daughter of a well-to-do store owner. Paul Allen’s heart attack, which he survives; Mosby Daniels’ crippling accident at work in the rail-yard;

Lawrenceville and give the rest of us a real feeling for the time.

What some readers may not realize is how closely Heartwell models his fictional Lawrenceville on the real town. What tipped me off was the presence of the Saint Paul Normal and Industrial School, an institute for African-American students founded by Rev. James Russell. Heartwell’s descriptions of the school and of Russell were rendered with such care that they finally led me to my laptop, where I discovered that James Russell was real and had indeed established such a school in the town in 1888. Though now closed, the college served Black students for many decades. A few more searches online revealed that Heartwell had also included other public buildings and businesses of Lawrenceville in his novel.

today, helps recreate this world. Here is a sampling of this style, taken from a scene when Robert brings Suzanne to the boarding house for a Sunday evening dinner:

“It’s fair to say Robert luxuriated in the conversation at the dinner table that night. It was clear that the whole household was fond of Suzanne and when she uttered an unusually prescient or witty remark, Robert could sense the approving eyes of the company glancing his way. Suzanne was indeed a gifted conversationalist, and she made every effort to involve all parties in the ebb and flow of dinner banter.”

For those who relish this sort of high style in their fiction, “The Boarding House” is a treat. And those who enjoy some history sprinkled into a story will find that confection as well. Baseball greats of the time, Charles Lindbergh on tour after his solo flight to Paris, the fight between boxers Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney broadcast by radio from Chicago’s Soldier Field: these events and more excite the interests of

‘Between Gone and Everlasting’

And though the central characters are fictional, the dilemmas some of them face, the crossroads that will forever change their lives, are as real as Lawrenceville itself. Should Mrs. Hicks remarry and close the boarding house? Laura has the opportunity to go to a private school in Raleigh, but will her love of home override her sense of adventure? Robert’s family, part of the upper crust of Richmond, are pressuring him to go to the University of Virginia School of Law, but he thinks his real vocation may lie in teaching. What way will he choose?

Heartwell doesn’t answer all these questions, leaving the reader to surmise, based on what they know of the characters, what path these characters will take.

“The Boarding House” is not for everyone. Those who like suspense or thrillers will find the pace slow, while others may not enjoy the formal prose. As for me, however, Proal Heartwell’s recreation of Lawrenceville and the late 1920s was exactly the book I needed.

Two thumbs up for the pleasures delivered by “The Boarding House.” (Jeff Minick reviews books and has written four of his own: two novels, “Amanda Bell” and “Dust On Their Wings,” and two works of nonfiction, “Learning As I Go” and “Movies Make the Man.” minick0301@gmail.com.)

Danita Dodson will read from her latest book, “Between Gone and Everlasting,” at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, at

Dodson writes with emotive transparency about loss, the passing of generations and the love of a father whose memory

his death.

Gracefully illustrating how the griever inhabits the umbral space between lamenting the gone and celebrating the everlasting, Dodson

tral paradox: the irrevocable absence of the departed illuminates that which remains. The reading is free and open to the public. To reserve copies of “Between Gone and Everything,” please call the bookstore at 828.586.9499.

Writer Jeff Minick

From mosquitoes to medical school, WCU alumnus shares his journey

JULIA DUVALL

SPECIAL TO SMN

Joe Davis, a double alumnus of Western Carolina University with a bachelor’s in emergency medical care and a master’s in biology, has had a unique higher education journey.

From being unsure of his future, to starting school at WCU to become a paramedic, to getting involved with vector-borne disease research to now being accepted into medical school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Davis has quite the list of experiences that has prepared him for a career in medicine.

“During my younger years, I struggled with focusing on what I wanted to do. I dropped out of high school and struggled in community college,” Davis said. “Then, I had a good friend of mine pass away at the young age of 22 from cystic fibrosis, and that was my wakeup call to do something with

my life. I took some basic emergency medical technician courses at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and I got really interested and it gave me the push to get my academics back on track.”

Once Davis completed his courses at A-B Tech, it was time to decide his next step.

“I came to Western because I was interested in becoming a paramedic and in the back of my mind, I had the desire to go to med school, too,” Davis said. “There were two tracks to choose from in the program, and I chose the pre-med one. I ended up taking a genetics class with Dr. (Indrani) Bose, who stressed to us that if we wanted to pursue med school, we needed to get involved in research.”

During that time, Davis made a phone call to UNC-Chapel Hill’s School of Medicine to see what he needed to do to prepare for med school.

“I remember a sweet lady by the name of Ms. Reed answering my frantic phone call, and I told her my situation, that my grades weren’t great and that I was working on turning things around,” he said. “She told me that I was not the first person to be in this situation and would not be the last. She said to focus on making A’s.”

In preparation for med school and to work on his GPA, Davis asked around about research opportunities at WCU when he was directed to Brian Byrd, WCU’s mosquito expert and professor in the environmental health sciences program.

“In 2015, I found out that Dr. Byrd was going to be giving a talk on vector-borne diseases in downtown Sylva, so I thought that would be a great way to get a better understanding of the type of research I could do with him,” Davis said. “This is where I learned about Zika and La Crosse encephalitis, which is very prevalent in Western North Carolina. I was fascinated listening to Dr. Byrd talk about the field work he does.”

Learning about La Crosse and how it predominantly affects children in WNC sparked Davis’ interest in conducting research on vector-borne illnesses.

“La Crosse is endemic in Western North Carolina because of the mountains, which is home to the most prominent carrier of the disease, the Aedes triseriatus, or more commonly known as the Eastern Treehole mosquito.”

— Joe Davis

“After the talk, I got in line to ask questions and shared with Dr. Byrd my interest in working with him in his epidemiology lab,” Davis said. “He agreed to let me come to the lab but required a minimum one-year commitment and so I started off by attending lab meetings.”

Davis said attending the lab meetings for graduate and undergraduate students helped him immerse himself in the laboratory language.

“Sitting in on those meetings was super fascinating to me because I was learning the language and also about the different mosquito species,” he said. “I vigilantly attended the meetings, and Dr. Byrd asked if I would like to help one of the graduate students with a larvicide research project. My part in the project was to go check the containers that were put out to collect larvae daily.”

Once Davis completed his part of that project, he continued to help students with other research projects that pertained to vector-borne illnesses.

“The more projects I worked on, the more responsibility I was given,” Davis said. “Dr. Byrd realized what a naturally curious person I am. He described me as ‘innately curious.’ At the end of my junior year, he told me about a research opportunity in Florida where I would spend the summer interning at a mosquito research facility, so of course I jumped on the opportunity.”

Davis interned at the Anastasia Mosquito Control District of St. Johns County in St. Augustine, Florida, where he conducted research for the facility, which focuses on prevention and control of mosquitoes.

“A type of mosquito that is invasive in Florida is called the Aedes aegypti, and it can spread Zika virus and dengue fever,” Davis said. “The facility is working to prevent invasions and finding new ways to detect diseases moving into a population and work to mitigate the risk to residents. There was a lot of money allocated to F

Joe Davis has two degrees from WCU — degrees he’s put to good use studying diseases spread by mosquitos. Donated photo

mitigating Zika, so the facility worked on an Aedes aegypti eradication project in downtown St. Augustine that I helped with too during that summer.”

During his internship, Davis was able to work in the field, lab and with public education and outreach.

“I came back to WCU my senior year and continued my paramedic studies but I was wearing two hats because as I was finishing up my degree. I was going to the lab at night working on projects for Dr. Byrd,” Davis said.

Davis finished the paramedic program and went to work for Wake County in 2018. He completed his bachelor’s degree in emergency medical care from WCU in 2019.

“My now-wife and I ended up moving back to the Asheville area, and I decided to go ahead and shoot for med school,” Davis said. “I learned through being a paramedic that I really enjoy patient care and human interaction, as well as the clinical side of things. I also learned how to get involved with research and incorporating those skills into my decision-making as a paramedic.”

Davis identified his research interests, which include clinical care and public outreach.

“It was four years after the initial phone call to UNC-Chapel Hill, and I had a Zoom call with Ms. Reed. She remembered me and I got to share with her that I graduated with honors,” Davis said. “She had tears in her eyes; she was so thrilled to hear that. She told me the next step was to get my master’s so they could look at that GPA in place of my undergraduate GPA where I had struggled in the decade before coming to WCU.”

Davis reached out to Byrd to see what options he had for a master’s program.

“When I reached back out to Dr. Byrd, he shared that he had just received a grant that I could use to work on a graduate thesis about La Crosse encephalitis,” Davis said. “Once again, I jumped at the opportunity to help shape my career, gives me more research experience and a tangible product that will help people.”

While earning his master’s, Davis was working full-time as a paramedic and serving as a graduate assistant.

“While not sustainable long-term, I pushed myself as much as I could because I knew getting accepted into medical school was going to be no easy feat,” he said. “I also got married during this time period, so there was a lot on my plate.”

It was also around this time that the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, and Davis and his wife were both on the frontlines dealing with critically ill patients.

“My wife was a nurse on a pulmonary unit exclusively working with COVID patients, and I was working with those patients from an EMT perspective,” Davis said. “I got an interesting point of view because I was experiencing the pandemic firsthand while also taking graduate courses where a lot of our curriculum was adjusted due to the pandemic. I felt very prepared and equipped to understand public health issues from the inside out because of my situation.”

Davis was also working on his La Crosse

encephalitis graduate thesis during the pandemic.

“La Crosse is endemic in Western North Carolina because of the mountains, which is home to the most prominent carrier of the disease, the Aedes triseriatus, or more com-

mary of La Crosse cases in North Carolina during 2021. We reviewed cases and as we predicted, we found certain counties in the state pose much more risk than others. The number of cases relative to the populations showed a much more significant risk.”

“My wife was a nurse on a pulmonary unit exclusively working with COVID patients, and I was working with those patients from an EMT perspective, I got an interesting point of view because I was experiencing the pandemic firsthand while also taking graduate courses where a lot of our curriculum was adjusted due to the pandemic.”

— Joe Davis

and Hygiene Conference in Seattle.

“That was such an awesome and influential experience because I got to stand shoulder to shoulder with public health officials and researchers from all over the world that are working on things like drug-resistant malaria,” Davis said. “Dr. Byrd had helped me get to this point and I was also given funding by the biology department. WCU truly gives undergraduate and graduate students hands-on opportunities that you would be hard pressed to find anywhere else.”

After he finished up his research project and graduated with his master’s in biology in 2023, Davis knew it was time to realize his dream of med school.

monly known as the Eastern Treehole mosquito,” Davis said. “When you are dealing with a very rural population, there are limitations in terms of access to health care and early detection as well as public health limitations. It is not like Florida where I could do surveillance on 200 houses in 20 minutes.”

Davis was used to dealing with these limitations as a paramedic but learned even more from the academic research side of rural health care, especially in terms of vector-borne illnesses.

“We are starting to call La Crosse ‘La Crosse neuroinvasive disease’ because encephalitis is only one symptom of this vector-borne illness,” he said. “Most people do not end up with encephalitis and are typically asymptomatic. As far as we can tell, one out of 100 to one out of 300 will develop clinically recognizable symptoms. A very small portion of those patients, predominantly children, will go on to have encephalitis, meningitis, seizures or extreme vomiting and end up in the emergency room.”

As part of the thesis, Davis followed up on some past cases that Byrd had worked on where there were clusters of the illness at the same or nearby location.

“The question is ‘Why is that happening?’ and if it was truly random, you should not see more than one person at the same house have La Crosse, and if two children were, but their chances of developing symptoms should be slim to none,” Davis said. “But these children from the same household have become symptomatic so we survey the house and surrounding areas to take inventory of the various potential risk factors. We look to see what trends emerge as well if there are new invasive species when comparing against a group of houses that have no history of anyone at the house having the illness.”

The major takeaway from Davis’ research was that homes where a child had La Crosse in the past had significantly more mosquitoes.

“This led us to look at percentages of dense foliage around the house, the water and the types of containers around the house,” Davis said. “The other component of this research project was an epidemiologic survey, which was an epidemic-like sum-

One of the most unexpected findings was the statistically significant clinical differences between adults and children.

“We found that children were more likely than adults to have seizures and encephalitis, so this means as far as we can tell the disease affects a child’s body differently than an adult’s,” Davis said. “Otherwise, it might be assumed children are more likely to get the illness because they are typically outside more than adults, or many other factors could be considered. But when we look at the severe symptoms, it is typically children who experience them.”

Davis presented his research findings at the American Society of Tropical Medicine

“I finished up my graduate work and took the MCAT as a non-traditional student, which required me to go back and study things I had learned about more than a decade ago,” he said. “I applied to 27 med schools, UNC-Chapel Hill was of course my number one choice, and I ended up being accepted.

Davis started his dream of becoming a doctor earlier this month when he began classes in Chapel Hill, a dream he says would not be possible without all the support he received from Byrd during his time at WCU.

“I would not be where I am today without Dr. Byrd. He has been one of the most influential people in my life and he has helped me to develop my thinking, my research and myself as a person,” Davis said. “He saw potential in me early on and pushed me and expected the best out of me.”

Haywood Waterways hits septic repair

milestone

Since 2006, Haywood Waterways Association (HWA) and the Haywood County Environmental Health Department, with grant funds, have repaired 200 failing septic systems in Haywood County through the Septic Repair Program.

waste from getting into Haywood County streams.

Over the years, both HWA and the Environmental Health Department have hosted annual workshops to provide education about the proper use and maintenance of their septic systems, and what funding may be available.

Currently no state program exists to assist homeowners with septic repairs and replacements since the removal of the WADE program in 2006. Haywood Waterways Association and the Haywood County Environmental Health Department are proud to offer this program, not available outside of the county and quickly becoming a model for neighboring counties to provide financial assistance to directly protect our waterways.

Over the years, funding was made available from the Pigeon River Fund of the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, NC Department of Environmental Quality 319 Program and Tennessee Valley Authority. These septic system repairs have prevented as much as 72,000 gallons per day of untreated human

For more information, contact Haywood Waterways Association at 828.476.4667 or info@haywoodwaterways.org.

Anyone who thinks their septic system may be failing can contact the Haywood County Environmental Health Department at 828.452.6682.

Funding for this program is provided by the NC Department of Environmental Quality Section 319 Grant Program and the Pigeon River Fund of the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.

Volunteers needed for Little Tennessee

Mainspring Conservation Trust seeks volunteers to participate in the annual Little Tennessee River Cleanup starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14.

Volunteers will gather at 544 East Main Street in Franklin in the empty lot across from the Mainspring office. A volunteer informational tent, dumpster and recycling collection will be set up at this location.

Participants can stop by the tent to pick up supplies, grab a map of major litter zones and then head out to their chosen cleanup area. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their boats if they don’t mind collecting trash on the water, or they can assist as shoreside or wading volunteers.

Free pizza will be provided at the info tent at noon.

To register, mainspringconserves.org/events/littletennessee-river-cleanup.

Cherokee river cleanup honoring Long Man

Long Man, Ganvhida Asgaga, is a revered figure among the Cherokee, whose head lays in the mountains and feet in the sea. The river is Long Man, called upon for strength, for cleansing, and for numerous cultural rituals tied to medicine and washing away bad thoughts and sadness. Help honor Long Man by taking part in the annual Oconaluftee River cleanup starting at 8 a.m. Sept. 6 at the Peaches Squirrell Recreation Complex in Cherokee.

Over breakfast, volunteers will share in prayer, hear from speakers and see a puppet show. They will receive equipment and instructions on where and how to safely clean the mountain streams, creeks and rivers, then be dispatched in teams for the cleanup.

Links to register for the event and further information can be found at facebook.com/honoringlongman.

Want to monitor water quality?

In 1996, the Volunteer Water Information Network (VWIN) program was established as a water quality monitoring program for many Western North Carolina counties. In Haywood County, Haywood Waterways Association manages 25 sites on 19 streams. The program’s purpose is to provide long term water quality monitoring information to help leverage grant funding for water quality improvement projects.

Volunteers collect water samples from assigned sites the second Saturday of each month as close to noon as possible. We currently need volunteers for the following sites: upper Hyatt and lower Hyatt Creek. No experience needed. Training and materials will be provided. Backup volunteers are available for

all of the sites. If you are interested or would like more information, contact Christine O’Brien at christine@haywoodwaterways.org or 828.476.4667, ext. 1.

The river cleanup in Cherokee will be held Sept. 6. Donated photo

Enjoy the Mountain State Fair in September

Organizers with the Mountain State Fair sponsored by Ingles Markets are busy preparing to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the fair with the new entertainment and an expanded Got to Be NC Pavilion featuring 22 new outdoor vendors.

The 2024 N.C. Mountain State Fair runs Sept. 6-15 at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher. More information is available at wncagcenter.org/p/mountainstatefair.

Two new fair acts have been added to the entertainment lineup — Hillbilly Bob and Magician T.J. Hill. Hillbilly Bob roams the fairgrounds with “Old Ruthie,” a Ford Model A adorned with antique items and decorations to spark conversations and attract a crowd. Through storytelling and humor, Hillbilly Bob offers up an entertaining and inspirational show

T.J. Hill warns fairgoers to prepare to be “ma-jished” by his interactive and humor-

Smokies announces Clingmans Dome closures

ous magic show. Hill promises a different and highly entertaining show every time as audience members assist with the magic.

Hillbilly Bob and Hill are joined by such popular returning acts as Chase’s Racing Swimming Pigs, Sea Lion Splash, Cartoon

Clingmans Dome Road will be closed the mornings of Sept. 10, 12 and 16 to facilitate special educational programs for students at schools in Cherokee.

The road will be closed at midnight the night before each event and will re-open at 1 p.m.

During the three morning closures, the seven-mile road and

Show and piano player Leon Jacobs.

The Got to Be NC Pavilion showcases some of the best local food and beverage products. This year, the Pavilion expands

Clingmans Dome Tower will be closed to all motorists, cyclists and hikers. Visitors should consider alternative destinations during the temporary closures. Look Rock Observation Tower along Foothills Parkway West offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys in Tennessee. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Cataloochee Valley and Oconaluftee Mountain Farm Museum offer historic landscape experiences.

Visitors are encouraged to check the park website for current road conditions and facility status, which also includes trail and backcountry updates.

on its space in the Chevrolet Davis Arena with an additional 22 outdoor vendors outside Davis Arena. Altogether, nearly 40 food and beverage companies will have products available in the Pavilion. Visit the Got to Be NC Pavilion and discover a new favorite foods and drink.

In addition, fairgoers can sit down and enjoy some great mountain music and high-energy clogging nightly beginning at 6 p.m. on the Ag South Farm Credit Mountain Music stage, with matinee performances on both Sundays beginning at 2 p.m.

Advance tickets are now on sale — $9 for adults aged 13 to 64. Beginning Sept. 6, prices at the gate and online are $12 for adults. The price for seniors, ages 65 and up, and kids 6 to 12 is $5, and the fair is always free for children aged 5 and under.

An advance unlimited ride ticket that can be used once for any day of the fair are $25. Unlimited ride stamps during the fair are $35 for Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and $25 all other days.

Headquarters with popular kid characters, Brad Matchett’s Comedy Hypnotist

Kristina Plaas photo

Local scout troop getting back on its feet

Scout Troop 318 of Waynesville, a troop with over 60 years of history, will be making a fresh start after being shut down by COVID. In addition to two former Waynesville mayors among its alumni, it produced hundreds of Eagle Scouts over its more than 60 years history.

Now members of the local scout district are working to revive the troop and are recruiting potential leaders to guide the next phase of scouting in Waynesville. Currently there is a shortage of Scouting in Waynesville, so youth here are missing opportunities for outdoor activities, character building, leadership skills, and a wide range of interesting topics to learn about.

However, rather than starting from scratch, some of the resources of a more established troop are in place. The biggest missing ingredient is adult leadership, and the troop is seeking volunteers.

There will be a meeting with refreshments at the Troop 318 Scout Hut in Waynesville on Thursday, Aug. 29, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss this opportunity in more detail. The Scout Hut is located in the East Street Park at 372 Howell Street. Any questions can be directed toward John Mills at 828.593.8501 or john.mills1946@gmail.com. A youth recruiting meeting will be held at the same location two weeks later on Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Highlands to host native plant symposium

Highlands Biological Station is excited to announce the 2024 Native Plant Symposium, scheduled for Sept. 13-14. This two-day event will be packed with engaging presentations, tours, auctions and more, all centered around the beauty and importance of native plants.

This symposium offers a unique opportunity for plant enthusiasts, gardeners and conservationists to learn from experts and engage with the latest research in native plant conservation.

Cost is $150 per person or $20 for students.

Puzzles can be found on page 38

These are only the answers.

For more information and to register, please visit highlandsbiological.org or send an email to  hbs@wcu.edu.

Waynesville tennis courts to be resurfaced

The tennis courts located at Recreation Park at 285 Vance St. in Waynesville will be closed from Aug. 27 through Sept. 10 to allow for resurfacing (weather pending).

Thermal Belt Sports Surfaces based out of

South Carolina will be contractor conducting the repairs.

In the event the courts are finished earlier than expected, they will reopen as soon as possible. Any revisions to the construction schedule will also be announced.

For more information, contact Luke Kinsland, Director, at 828.456. 2030 lkinsland@waynesvillenc.gov.

Local members of the scout district are looking to revive the troop after a hiatus. Donated photo File photo

WNC events and happenings

COMMUNITY EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Cruso Farmer’s Market takes place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Tuesday at the Cruso Community Center.

• The Jackson County Farmers Market meets every Saturday November through March 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and April through October 9 a.m. to noon at Bridge Park in Sylva, 110 Railroad St. Special events listed on Facebook and Instagram.

• The Jackson Arts Market takes place from 1-5 p.m. every Saturday at 533 West Main St. in Sylva with live music and an array of local artists.

• Cowee School Farmer’s Market is held Wednesdays from 3-6 p.m., at 51 Cowee School Drive in Franklin. The market has produce, plant starts, eggs, baked goods, flowers, food trucks and music. For more information or for an application, visit www.coweeschool.org or call 828.369.4080.

• Mill Town Farmers Market takes place from 4-7 p.m. Thursdays at Sorrell’s Street Park in downtown Canton.

FUNDRAISERS AND B ENEFITS

• P.A.W.S. Wine Tasting and Silent Auction will take place 6-9 p.m. Aug. 31, at Harmony Hall, Lands Creek Log Cabins, 3336 Balltown Road in Bryson City. Proceeds benefit PAWS animal shelter. For more information visit pawsbrysoncity.org.

H EALTH AND WELLNESS

• The Pollinators Foundation offers weekly Mindful Movement Qigong classes for all ages to reduce stress and improve health and well-being. Classes take place 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Folkmoot Center in Waynesville. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.4224.1398.

• The Pollinators Foundation and The Share Project host weekly Happy Hour Nature Walks 4:30-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Lake Junaluska. The group meets at the Labyrinth. For more information visit thepollinatorsfoundation.org or contact Marga Fripp at margacfripp@gmail.com 828.4224.1398.

CLUBS AND M EETINGS

• The Western Carolina Cribbage Club meets every Monday at 6 p.m. An eclectic group of young and old, male and female. The group supplies boards, cards, pegs and are always willing to help those still learning the finer points of the game. For more information contact kei3ph@bellsouth.net.

• Chess 101 takes place 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Friday at the Canton Branch of the Haywood County Library. For more information, email Ashlyn Godleski at ashlyn.godleski@haywoodcountync.gov or call 828.356.2567.

• The Canton Branch of the Haywood County Public Library Creative Writing Group meets 10:30 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. For more information, email Jennifer at jennifer.stuart@haywoodcountync.gov or call 828.356.2561.

• Knit Night takes place at 5:30-7:30 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month at The Stecoah Valley Center. The event is free and open to the public. RSVP is recommended: 828.479.3364 or amber@stecoahvalleycenter.com.

• A Novel Escape Book Club takes place at 6:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month at the Novel Escape Bookstore (60 E Main St, Franklin). Every other month one book is selected for discussion. On alternate months the meeting is round-table discussion in which participants share what they’ve read lately. For more information call the bookstore at 828.369.9059 or visit anovelescapefranklin.wordpress.com.

• Silent Book Club takes place at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at the Novel Escape Bookstore (60 E Main St, Franklin). Bring your own book and whatever makes you feel cozy and enjoy a quiet, uninterrupted hour of reading amongst friends.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS

• “Return of the Elk: Ranger Talk” takes place 1-2 p.m. every Sunday at the Caldwell House in Cataloochee Valley. Walk the valley and learn about how elk — which were nearly extinct due to overhunting and loss of habitat across the continent — managed to return to the Smokies.

A&E

• The 14th annual Highlands Dazzling Dahlia Festival will take place Sept. 5-7. For more information visit highlandshistory.com/dahlia-festival.

• A new award-winning documentary on the hidden dangers of microplastics will be shown at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, at Waynesville First United Methodist Church. A panel of regional environmental and health experts will begin at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.

• Waynesville Art After Dark takes place 6-9 p.m. on the first Friday of every month through December.

• Groovin on the Green takes place 6-8:30 p.m. every Friday in The Village Green all summer. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, picnics and coolers welcome. For more information visit discoverjackson.com.

• “Time of War” at Oconaluftee Indian Village takes

place at noon and 3 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. A short battle reenactment performed by actors from “Unto These Hill” and reenactors from Oconaluftee Indian Village come together to depict what happens when a British militia invades a Cherokee town. Tickets can be purchased at cherokeehistorical.org or by calling 828.497.2111.

• Pickin’ in the Park takes place takes place 6-9 p.m. every Friday at the Canton Recreation Park. The events are free and open to the public. For more information visit cantonnc.com/pickin-in-the-park.

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

• Paint and Sip at Waynesville Art School will be held every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7-9:30 p.m. To learn more and register call 828.246.9869 or visit PaintAndSipWaynesville.com/upcoming-events. Registration is required, $45.

• Mountain Makers Craft Market will be held from noon to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of each month at 308 North Haywood St. in downtown Waynesville. Over two dozen artisans selling handmade and vintage goods. Special events will be held when scheduled. mountainmakersmarket.com.

K IDS AND FAMILIES

• ASD Teen/ Adult Art Group takes place 12:30-2:30 p.m. every other Friday at the Full Spectrum Farms pavilion. Each group event has a different theme. For more information fullspectrumfarms.org.

• On Mondays, the Macon County Library will host Lady Violet, a King Charles Spaniel service dog, for children to practice their reading skills. Children who feel nervous reading aloud to an adult tend to feel more comfortable with a pet or a service animal. Sign up for a time to read with Lady Violet or to one of the library’s reading friends at the children’s desk or call 828.524.3600.

• On Tuesdays, Kelly Curtis will offer reading services to families from 3:30 -5:30 p.m. at the Macon County Public Library. Families may sign up for a 30-minute time spot at the children’s desk or by calling 828.524.3600.

• Creative Writing Club will take place at 3:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of every month at the Macon County Public Library. The writing club is intended for ages 8-12. For more information visit fontanalib.org or call 828.524.3600.

• Move and Groove Storytime takes place 10:30-11 a.m. every Thursday, at the Canton branch of the Haywood County Public Library. Exciting, interactive music and movement story time ideal for children 2-6. For information contact Ashlyn at ashlyn.godleski@haywoodcountync.gov or at 828.356.2567.

Market

MarketPlace information:

The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 copies across 500 locations in Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties, including the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. Visit www.wncmarketplace.com to place your ad!

Rates:

• $15 — Classified ads that are 25 words, 25¢ per word after.

• Free — Lost or found pet ads.

• $6 — Residential yard sale ads.*

• $1 — Yard Sale Rain Insurance Yard sale rained out? Call us by 10a.m. Monday for your ad to run again FREE

• $375 — Statewide classifieds run in 170 participating newspapers with 1.1+ million circulation. (Limit 25 words or less)

• Boost Online — Have your ad featured at top of category online $4

• Boost in Print

• Add Photo $6

• Bold ad $2

• Yellow, Green, Pink or Blue Highlight $4

• Border $4

Note: Highlighted ads automatically generate a border so if you’re placing an ad online and select a highlight color, the “add border” feature will not be available on the screen.

Note: Yard sale ads require an address. This location will be displayed on a map on www.wncmarketplace.com

p: 828.452.4251 · f:828.452.3585 classads@smokymountainnews.com www.wncmarketplace.com

PLACE WNC

Legals

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS AND NOTICE AND PUBLIC EXPLANATION OF PROPOSED ACTIVITY IN THE 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN AND/OR WETLANDS

August 28, 2024 Town of Waynesville

16 South Main Street, P.O. Box 100 Waynesville, NC 28786

Preparer (McGill Associates, P.A.) telephone number: 910-295-3159

These notices shall satisfy three separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be taken by the Town of Waynesville

Request for Release of Funds

At least one day after the end of the Comment Period, the Town of Waynesville will submit a request to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Infrastructure (the Division) for the release of funds under Community Block Development Grant for Infrastructure (CDBG-I) funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. Activities being conducted as part of the South Waynesville Public Water & Sanitary Sewer System

Improvements Project for which the funds are being requested are described below.

Purpose and Need of Project:

Currently, the private water lines in the project site are 2” PVC pipes that were installed over 40 years ago. The existing 2” PVC private water line is undersized and cannot meet the residential demands. The water pressure is also inadequate according to NCRGPWS, T15A NCAC 18C .0901, which requires a minimum of 30 psi for systems such as Sawyer Street and Explorer Drive. The 35 mobile homes on Sawyer Street and Explorer Drive are served by a 2” PVC water line which exceeds the requirements of NCRGPWS T15A NCAC 18C .0901, that states that no more than 20 residential units to be served by a dead end 2” water line.

Currently, all Town-owned sewer collection lines in the project site are 6” and 8” VCP pipe. Many of these pipes are in direct violation of Minimum Design Standards for Sanitary Sewer, as all public collection lines shall be 8” in diameter. The private-owned sewer collection lines are 4” VCP pipes that are not metered, monitored, or permitted. The existing sewer lines within the project area are continuously experiencing clogs, breaks, leaks, and size, number of connec-

tions, and the condition of the clay pipe. The age and brittle nature of this clay pipe and brick manholes has allowed

collection system which has contributed to the violation at the Town’s wastewater treatment plant. The deteriorated sewer lines impose an environmental hazard as well as a hazard to the health of residents living in the project area when

backups into residences occur due to blockage of the undersized collection lines. The proposed project will allow all failing systems to be removed from operation and the residences connected to a new collection system.

Project Description: Project No. 22-1-4111

This portion of the project will install approximately 1,435 LF of new sewer extension along Sawyer Street and Explorer Street with installation of six new gravity sewer manholes, connect to one existing manhole, install 24 new LMI eligible sewer service lines, reconnect four existing sewer service lines and replace of approximately 405 LF of 8” gravity sewer line. All sewer line replacement and new sewer extension activities will be along Sawyer Street in addition to new sewer line extension along Explorer Street. The project will serve four existing sanitary sewer served residences and 34 new residences, all locat-

ed along Sawyer Street and Explorer Street. All new connections are within the Sawyer Street mobile home park. All 34 of the new sewer service lines connecting to the new 8” sewer line and are within the Sawyer Street mobile home park, and 24 of those new service connections will serve existing LMI households. The project’s LMI is 70.02%.

Project No. 23-1-4154

This portion of the project will consist of the upgrade and replacement of a portion of the existing sanitary sewer system in West Waynesville along Hendrix, Franklin, Muse and Sawyer Streets. The project proposes to install 2,140 LF new 8-inch PVC sanitary sewer line along Hendrix, Franklin, Muse and Sawyer Streets, along with replacement of 11 manholes and 4-inch sewer services. The project will serve 45 existing residences and 43 new residences, the latter located along Sawyer Street in a mobile home park. The project will and moderate-income persons.

Project No. 23-1-4153

This portion of the project involves the upgrade and replacement of a portion of the existing public water system in South Waynesville starts at the intersection of Hendrix Street and Sawyer Street and follows Sawyer Street south to the dead end of Sawyer

Street. The project area is in the former Town of Hazelwood, which was annexed into the Town of Waynesville in 1995. The existing Sawyer Street Public Water System ends at the third residential housing unit, (before the Sawyer Street Mobile Home Park).

The project will include the extension of the Waynesville Public Water System from the current end to the most southern end of Sawyer Street and the length of Explorer Street. The project will install 1,255 LF of 6” DIP Water Main of new extension along Sawyer Street and Explorer Street and 2” PVC Water Main. Connection of 25 LMI residential water service lines

new LMI (100%) eligible water service connections, reconnection of 4 existing water service reconnections. All water line replacement and new sewer extension activities will be along Sawyer Street in addition to new sewer line extension along Explorer Street.

The project will serve 4 existing water sewer served residences and 34 new residences, that were previously served by a 2-inch private water line that served the mobile home park, which are all located along Sawyer Street and Explorer Street. All new connections are within the Sawyer Street mobile home park.

All 34 of the new sewer service lines connecting to new 6” water line and are within the Sawyer Street mobile home park, and 24 of those new service connections will serve existing LMI households. The project area has 70.02 percent of low- and moderate-income persons.

The three proposed project sites will occur within previously disturbed and existing maintained roads, existing paved areas, and street right of ways. Any impacts to surface waters as a result of utility line crossings are anticipated to be temporary and min-

imal. No tree removal is anticipated as part of the proposed project.

Estimated CDBG-I Funding Amount: $3,000,000

Other Funding Source(s): $108,000 – Local Funds

Other Funding Amount(s) (if applicable):

Notice and Public Explanation of Proposed Activity in Floodplain/Wetlands

This is to give notice that the Town of Waynesville has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Wetlands Protection. The activity is funded under the Community Block Development Grant for Infrastructure. The proposed project is located within previously disturbed and existing maintained roads, existing paved areas, and street right of ways in the Town of Waynesville within Haywood County, North Carolina. This portion of the project (Project No.23-I-4154) will consist of the upgrade and replacement of a portion of the existing sanitary sewer system in West Waynesville along Hendrix, Franklin, Muse and Sawyer Streets. The project proposes to install 2,140 LF new 8-inch PVC sanitary sewer line along Hendrix, Franklin, Muse and Sawyer Streets, along with replacement of 11 manholes and 4-inch sewer services. The project will serve 45 existing residences and 43 new residences, the latter located along Sawyer Street in a mobile home park. The project will and moderate-income persons. The proposed project will impact approximately 0.351-acres of the

mitigation measures to be taken to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and

Alternative

1 (No

Action)

– The No Action Alternative includes no construction of sanitary sewer improvements within the Town of Waynesville and would result in the continued use of existing sewer lines. This alternative does not address any environmental or public health issues associated with the failing system.

If the No Action Alternative is selected, the Town’s residents woulddersized sewer collection system for wastewater disposal. The No Action Alternative was rejected due to the continued potential for negative environmental and public health impacts associated with the current disposal methods.

Alternative 2 (Sanitary Sewer System Improvements) – This is the preferred alternative and will consist of the upgrade and replacement of a portion of the existing sanitary sewer system in West Waynesville along Hendrix, Franklin, Muse and Sawyer Streets. In total, this alternative includes the installation of 2,140 LF new 8-inch PVC sanitary sewer line along Hendrix, Franklin, Muse and Sawyer Streets, along with replacement of 11 manholes and 4-inch sewer services. The project will serve 45 existing residences and 43 new residences, the latter located along Sawyer Street in a mobile home park. The of low- and moderate-income persons.

ville to be removed from operation and to provide a safe and reliable method of wastewater disposal to the Town’s residents.

After consideration of the various options, Alternative 2 was selected because it will requirenance and capital costs than Alternative 1 (No Action) while providing the

associated with removsewer collection systems from operation unlike the No-Action Alternative.

Mitigation measures and construction techniques will be utilized during project completion to minimize adverse impacts, as well as restore and preserve natural

values as follows: (1)

the trenches following line surface elevations will be restored to original elevation and slope; and (3) erosion control measures will be employed to prevent soil runoff and disturbance of adjoining -

include material laydown, installation of erosion control measures, and excavation of a trench for installation of sewer lines.

The Town of Waynesville has reevaluated the alternatives to building

determined that it has no practicable alternative.

The Town of Waynesville has considered the following alternatives and

Temporary impacts to soils, topography, noise, and air emissions are anticipated during construction, which will be mitigated by proper control measures. Overall, the Preferred Alternative is intended to have positive environmental impacts by undersized sewer collection systems in Waynes-

document compliance with steps 3 through 6 of Executive Order 11988, are available for public inspection, review and copying upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments.

There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide informa-

1

5

"You Be --" (1986 Run-D.M.C. hit)

25

Turncoat 92 Most pasty

93 Phantom

96 "Yes, cap'n!"

98 Reporter on "Parks and Recreation"

99 Buds from the hood

100 Multi-roof temple

101 Winged bug with pincers

102 Intimidates

104 Sportscaster Rashad

106 "Fuer --" (piano piece)

109 Chronicle

110 Grand -- (annual race)

111 Clearheaded

116 "-- pasa?"

117 Dawn drops

ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

tion about these areas. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for publicplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modareas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Finding of No cant Impact

The Town of Waynesville has determined that the project will have no human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Reat the Town of Waynes-

at 16 South Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 and may be examined or copied weekdays 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Public Comments

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Town Manager - Rob Hites, the des-sible for receiving and responding to comments. All comments received by September 12, 2024 will be considered by the Town of Waynesville prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which notice they are addressing.

Release of Funds

The Town of Waynesville that Rob Hites in his capacity as Town Manager consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these

SUDOKU

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responsibilities have beenbilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities, and allows the Town of Waynesville to use Program funds.

Objections to Release of Funds

The Division will accept objections to its release of funds and the Responfor a period of 15 days following the anticipated submission date or the actual submission date (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases:

executed by the CertifyWaynesville;

• The Responsible Entity has omitted a step or failed to make a decision HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58;

• The grant recipient or other participants in the development pro-

Answers on 34

cess have committed funds, incurred costs, or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by the Division; or

• Another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality.

Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58) and shall be addressed to

Colleen Simmons, Program Manager

Division of Water Infrastructure 1633 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1633 or colleen.simmons@ deq.nc.gov

Potential objectors should contact the Division at 919.707.9187 to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Rob Hites Town of Waynesville –Town Manager

This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Rob Hites at 828-452-2491 or at 16 South Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 for accommodations for this request.

Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Rob Hites al 828-452-2491 o en 16 South Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 de alojamiento para esta solicitud.

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

HAYWOOD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT DIVISION

BEFORE THE CLERK

JEFFREY AMSLER-JENDRZEJCZYK

Petitioners, v. NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION

FOR THE ADOPTION OF:

MC: Amsler, TO: Unknown Father Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against above entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows:

Petition for Stepparent Adoption

You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than October 16th, 2024 and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This 20th day of August, 2024

NIELSEN LAW, PLLC

Joshua D. Nielsen

Attorney for Petitioner 413 Walnut St Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9360 (828) 229-7255 facsimile

Publication Dates: August 28th, September 4th, and September 11th, 2024

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

Case No.24E001496430

Judith Jane Fowler,

Executor of the Estate of Eric Francis Fowler of Haywood County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Nov 21 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

Executor PO Box 143 Waynesville, NC 28786

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

Case No.24E001459-430

Sarah Ashley Burns,

Executor of the Estate of Ben McLain Burns (aka Ben M. Burns,

Ben Burns) of Haywood County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Nov 14 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

Executor

Adams, Howell, Sizemore & Howell, P.A. 1600 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 101 Raleigh, NC 27608

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

Case No.24E001469-430

Angela Henley, having -

istrator of the Estate of Leila Rhodarmer Harkins of Haywood County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before Nov 28 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

Administrator 66 Plateau Place Waynesville, NC 28786

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Pets

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