SMN 07 26 17

New music recording studio opens in Franklin Page 20

On the Cover:

When a man fell while climbing on Yellowstone Falls near Graveyard Fields, a team of 68 people was required to plan and carry out a rescue that lasted four hours and left everyone involved exhausted. The attraction between people and waterfalls is nothing new, with a couple waterfall deaths per year typical between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pisgah-Nantahala National Forest. SMN explores why these deaths occur and how to prevent them. (Page 32) Looking Glass Falls. Holly Kays photo

News

EBCI could provide broadband relief in Swain ........................................................4 Flurry of last-minute candidates flood Maggie Valley ..............................................5 Election sign-ups extended in Jackson ........................................................................6

vie for three seats on Franklin board ......................................................................6 High cost puts public access to Parris cabin on hold

Law enforcement still searching for armed suspect

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Special Section

Frontier Communications rep flooded with customer complaints

Improvements to Swain are coming — slowly

BY J ESSI STONE N EWS E DITOR

Swain County residents recently crowded a room to voice their dissatisfaction with the internet and cell service they are — or aren’t — receiving from Frontier Communications.

In a town hall meeting last Friday, Rep. Mike Clampitt, R-Bryson City, brought several speakers, including Susan Miller, Director of Governmental Affairs for Frontier Communications, to address his constituents’ questions and complaints.

“Thanks for not shooting me on sight — I know some of you have had issues with Frontier’s service,” Miller said, as members of the audience scoffed.

“You mean non-service,” one person yelled out.

Residents said they have been dealing with Frontier’s spotty cell and internet service for years. Some people said they haven’t been able to get any cell or internet service. It’s a complex and expensive problem, Miller said, but she reassured residents that Frontier is working to improve service.

“We do believe Western North Carolina is an important market, but it’s a difficult one to serve,” she said.

As a private business, Miller said, Frontier has to make business decisions that are profitable, and installing expensive broadband equipment to serve only a handful of people isn’t a profitable investment. While broadband service fees for customers help Frontier subsidize the cost of providing phone service — as required by the FCC — Miller said Frontier really doesn’t make a profit in serving rural WNC.

“In this area it’s pretty much a loss,” she said.

Miller said the good news is that Frontier is working in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission to expand broadband in some of those “rural high-cost” areas.

Miller showed a map of Swain County and the pockets where the FCC was providing partial funding to deploy new infrastructure. Even so, the infrastructure going in won’t be the newest or the best technology. She said it would be more DSL infrastructure that would allow residents in those designated areas to at least get 10 megabytes of speed, which is the minimum requirement from the

because those were the easiest to get done that cover the most people. The projects in Swain are the most costly with the least amount of people covered because of the terrain and sparse residents.

Based on the map Miller provided, it appears most of the new broadband equipment will be deployed in the Whittier area and along the Qualla Boundary.

“If you’re in one of the census blocks we’re supposed to cover and you’re not getting service — please call us,” she said.

Miller then opened it up to questions from residents who complained about dropped calls at home or their internet service going out every 10 to 15 minutes. Other customers said they didn’t understand why they couldn’t receive service from Frontier when they know Frontier has equipment just across the street from where they live.

Miller encouraged people to call Frontier and check on service availability in their area. She also took the opportunity to clear up what she called misinformation printed in a local newspaper article last summer when a Frontier costumer filed a complaint about not being able to get a landline phone from the provider.

“Frontier is obligated to provide telephone service to everyone who wants it,” Miller said. “If they call us and they’re willing to pay the rate and extra fee for construction if needed or to upgrade facilities — the idea we’re not going to provide phone service isn’t true.”

FCC program.

“If you have a surcharge on your bill, that’s a federal universal surcharge the FCC collects from all customers and it’s been dispersed to make telephone universally available — now it’s being directed to making broadband more available, but it’s only going to cover a portion of customers not served,” Miller said.

The FCC embarked on the project beginning in 2015 and Frontier has until 2020 to meet its obligation to install the needed equipment to get the designated areas covered. Miller said Frontier has already surpassed 40 percent of its goal with projects out toward Cashiers, Franklin and Murphy

EBCI could provide broadband relief in Swain

BY J ESSI STONE

N EWS E DITOR

For many Swain County residents, waiting until 2020 in hopes Frontier Communications will be able to provide them with any kind of broadband internet service is not a realistic option.

Residents made it clear during a town hall meeting last week with Rep. Mike Clampitt, R-Bryson City, that they wanted better service now — and a company started by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians might have a quicker solution.

Jeremy Brown, who works in the IT Department for the EBCI, explained how the

The truth is Frontier’s equipment only has so many ports for phone lines, so if all the ports are full on the equipment and a new neighbor moves into the neighborhood, they will have to wait for a port to open up. That only happens if someone else moves or disconnects their service. It’s not a huge problem in Bryson City where more people rely on their cell phone, but some rural areas of Swain County still need a landline because cell service isn’t reliable at their home.

After hearing everyone’s concerns, Miller took down names and numbers of customers with concerns and promised to bring their issues back to her senior management team to see if the problems can be addressed.

EBCI’s collaboration with Balsam West and the creation of Cherokee Wireless could benefit Swain County in the near future.

Back in 2003, the EBCI and Drake Enterprises in Franklin were experiencing the same internet challenges as others in Western North Carolina — except when the internet goes down at Harrah’s or at Drake, it could cost them millions in revenue. The inconsistent coverage led to the EBCI and Drake taking matter into their own hands by going in 50/50 to start Balsam West, the provider that now supplies bandwidth.

“It was created in 2004 out of necessity because EBCI and Drake needed infrastructure to support their mission and applications,” said Matt Singer with Balsam West. “We constructed a fiber-optic network in Western North Carolina that is a 400-mile ring network mostly underground.”

That fiber-optic network created what people in the industry call the “middle mile.” While the middle

Public invited to property rights conference

The Southeastern Private Property and Federal Land Use Conference will be held July 29 in Bryson City.

The purpose of the conference is to examine how the shrinking amount of taxable private property in rural counties leads to below-average economic conditions for businesses and people in those areas.

Additionally, the conference will focus on the changing management of federal lands and how this affects rural counties and forest users in the mountains.

“The right to own private property that cannot be arbitrarily regulated or confiscated by the government is the moral and constitutional basis of individual freedom. The majority of the citizens we represent agree with that statement,” said Dr. Dan Eichenbaum, a Cherokee County commissioner and an organizer of the conference. “That’s why they (and we) choose to live in rural America. And they expect us, their elected officials, to protect their private property rights from burdensome regulation and outright confiscation by state and federal governments.”

The Conference will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Swain County Center for the Arts at Swain High School. All property owners, elected representatives, and concerned citizens are encouraged to attend.

Myron Ebell, Director of the Center for Energy and Environment at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, will be a keynote speaker at the conference. In addition to his work at CEI, Ebell chairs the Cooler Heads Coalition, which comprises representatives from more than two-dozen nonprofit organizations based in the United States and abroad that challenge global warming alarmism and oppose energy rationing policies.

Ebell has worked on energy and environment issues for more than two decades, and has been a guest on numerous radio and tel-

mile serves as the backbone of any broadband internet network and is successful in providing service to many businesses, the last mile is still needed to deliver internet capabilities to homes in the far corners of the region.

“The infrastructure is here to support businesses … but we can’t get to individuals cost-effectively with fiber,” Brown said.

Since installing the fiber, Brown said the business plan had evolved to begin looking at fixed wireless to expand the network to more people and businesses on the Qualla Boundary, which is how Cherokee Broadband got started. With an access point attached to the fiber network, wireless signals can be sent out further to homes as long as the line of sight isn’t obstructed by a mountains or trees.

Rick Strohm, office manager with Cherokee Broadband, said he sympathized with folks in Swain County who still don’t have reliable service in a time when it’s no longer a luxury but a necessity.

evision shows. Recently, Ebell headed President Donald Trump’s administration’s transition at the Environmental Protection Agency.

Another featured speaker at the conference will be William Perry Pendley, President and Chief Operating Officer the Mountain States Legal Foundation. MSLF is a “nonprofit, public interest legal foundation dedicated to individual liberty, the right to own and use property, limited and ethical government, and the free enterprise system that defends constitutional liberties and the rule of law.”

During the Reagan Administration, Pendley served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy and Minerals of the Department of Interior, where he authored Reagan's National Minerals Policy and Exclusive Economic Zone proclamation. He was a consultant to former Secretary of the Navy John F. Lehman, Jr., and was engaged in the private practice of law in the Washington, D.C., area before his return to the West in 1989.

He has argued cases before the Supreme Court of the United States as well as various federal courts of appeals. His monthly column, Summary Judgment, appears throughout the country, and he is the author of five books: It Takes A Hero (1994); War on the West (1995); Warriors for the West (2006); Sagebrush Rebel (2013), and Summary Judgment (2015). He is admitted to practice law in Wyoming, Colorado, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.

Other speakers include Howard Hutchinson, Executive Director of the Coalition of Arizona/New Mexico Counties for Stable Economic Growth and Dr. Dan Eichenbaum, Cherokee County commissioner and founder of the Coalition of Rural Appalachian Counties.

Event sponsors include Freedom and Land Rights Coalition, Inc., Competitive Enterprise Institute, Coalition of Rural Appalachian Counties and Dr. Dan’s Freedom Forum.

For questions or more information contact Charlene Hogue, 828.371.8247 or email landrightscoalition@gmail.com.

“We were promised for years ‘it’s coming, it’s coming,’ and it never came,” he said.

Strohm said the goal of Cherokee Broadband right now is to provide service to every family and business on the Qualla Boundary, and when that goal is complete, the company will begin branching out to serve surrounding areas like Swain County. Six new wireless towers are currently being installed on the boundary that the company hopes will increase service from the current 25 megabytes of internet speed to 100 MB of speed.

“Our main goal when founded in 2008 was to bring high speed to enrolled members,” he said. “We hope to do the same thing for surrounding towns when we’re done — Maggie Valley, Robbinsville, Bryson City — we hope to fill in the gap.”

Cherokee Wireless currently has 460 customers but at any one time can be serving 30,000 people because of the casino and hotel.

Question: Is the pork at Ingles Pasture-raised?

Answer: No, currently it is not. It would be impossible to pasture-raise pigs on any sort of scale. They would require 1/4 acre for every 8-9 pigs. Hogs/pigs are not grazing animals like cows or sheep; they "root", i.e. use their snouts to push and search for food and this can be destructive to the landscape and result in erosion if not properly managed. They would also need to be fed in addition to anything they could root for in a pasture in order to receive proper nutrition. You might find "pastureraised" pigs in small operations but hogs can be very sensitive to heat (that's why they roll in mud to keep cool) so they are generally kept indoors where they can be kept cool, though they may have access to the outdoors.

Bottom Line: Raising pigs out of doors may subject them to injury and diseases including trichinosis - which can be passed to humans. USDA organic standards for raising pigs are that: "Pigs are required to have access to the outdoors, but raising pigs on pasture is not required by organic regulations."

For more information:

www.fooddialogues.com and www.ams.usda.gov

Change is in the air

Mayor, board elections represent the changing face of Canton

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER

Although the Municipal General Election isn’t until Nov. 7, when the candidate sign-up period closed on July 21, Canton’s fate was sealed.

Radical changes in age, sex, party affiliation and even state of origin will occur in a town that prides itself on its century-old mill and quaint, traditional neighborhoods.

In what was probably the least surprising surprise of the sign-up season, Canton Alderman Zeb Smathers was the first — and only — candidate to stand for mayor.

odd inclination for the write-in vote in mayoral contests.

In 2009, Smathers’ father Pat ran unopposed for mayor and garnered 448 votes in the process; there were, however, an astonishing 90 write-in votes against him.

Smathers shouldn’t have a problem on Election Day, but in an election that will probably draw fewer than 600 voters, anything’s possible — but not probable.

In running for mayor, Smathers’ aldermanic seat becomes vacant; Canton Alderwoman Carole Edwards likewise declined to seek another term on the town board, meaning the Smathers administration will see two new members joining Gail Mull and Dr. Ralph Hamlett.

cesses, other parts of town still aren’t moving in the right direction.

The final candidate, James Markey, shares much in common with the others; he’s a music teacher at Erwin Middle School in Buncombe County, he’s 38 years old, he’s from Myrtle Beach and he’s a firsttime candidate.

“I wanted to help out,” Markey said. “There are some really great things happening in town.”

There doesn’t seem to be much in the way of differences amongst the four, at least politically; all agree that the town is moving in a positive direction, and none have criticized Mayor Ray’s administration.

There are, however, some finer distinctions that will determine who appeals most to voters.

replace Edwards and join Mull as one of two Canton alderwomen.

Regardless of the aldermanic race outcomes, board age demographics will see a dramatic shift. Smathers will replace a mayor nearly twice his age; Edwards is in her 60s and will be replaced by someone aged 33 to 43, and Smathers’ aldermanic seat will also be occupied by someone in that age bracket.

Canton Alderwoman

Long seen as heir apparent to outgoing Canton Mayor Mike Ray, the 34-year-old Democrat and attorney Smathers has shown himself to be a thoughtful, capable problem solver and there are few in town — if any — who have the local government experience he has, so neither his candidacy nor his lack of an opponent came as a shock.

San Antonio, Texas, Native Kristina Smith was the first to sign up for one of those seats; the 33-year-old handles email marketing for the Biltmore Company and helped with Canton’s recent rebranding effort. She thinks Canton is headed in the right direction and said July 7 that she wants to be part of that “continuing progressive change.”

Zeb Smathers

Just because he’s unopposed, however, doesn’t mean this one’s in the books for Smathers; Canton’s not above displaying an

Flurry

Next came Carl Cortright, a 34-year-old data architect for Mission Health; the Owego, New York native said when he filed for office July 7 that he didn’t disagree with most of what the current board has done, but would focus on transparency and communication.

Brent Holland filed shortly after Smith and Cortright; Holland, a respiratory therapist for Mission, has roots in Haywood County that date back to the 1700s. He says despite some parts of town reveling in Canton’s recent economic development suc-

Although Canton’s election is nonpartisan, the current board is composed of four registered Democrats and a Democratic mayor. With Smathers moving up and Edwards moving on, two Democrats remain, but they may not remain a majority.

Cortright is registered as unaffiliated and said he tends to vote purple. The unaffiliated Markey is somewhat of a mixed bag as well.

“My parents were Reagan Republicans,” he said, explaining that while he has identified as a conservative for much of his life, he considers himself a left-leaning centrist. “I tend to vote more Democrat, especially in state elections.”

Were Cortright and Markey to prevail the board could possibly see an occasional stalemate, with Democratic Mayor Smathers casting a tie-breaking vote. Smith and Holland are registered Democrats.

Board gender demographics are fairly even currently and could remain so with the election of Smith, who would in essence

Carole Edwards declined to seek another term, meaning the Smathers administration will see two new members joining Gail Mull and Dr. Ralph Hamlett.

Geographically, the unaffiliated Cortright is an oddity — he lives in Beaverdam 3, which is a far less Democratic precinct than Beaverdam 5/6, from whence all other candidates hail. Both precincts are, however, about the same size, and with Holland, Markey and Smith all working their own blocks, things could get tight for them quick. Cortright also holds an edge in ballot order — he’ll be first, followed alphabetically by Holland, Markey and Smith. Regardless, all four will likely have to reckon with a win number in the neighborhood of 300 votes; like 2017, in 2015 there were two open seats and four candidates of which Mull and Hamlett prevailed with 273 and 257 votes, respectively, out of a total of 928 cast.

of last-minute candidates flood Maggie Valley

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER

For a while there, things seemed to be pretty quiet on the Maggie Valley political scene, but on the very last day of the candidate filing period three candidates joined two others in seeking the two aldermanic seats up for election this year.

Maggie Valley Alderman Mike Eveland said July 1 he’d probably run for re-election, and ended up filing July 12.

Two days later, he was joined in the race by Democrat and 2015 mayoral candidate Jasay Ketchum.

The other aldermanic seat currently up for election is occupied by Clayton Davis, who said July 1 he hadn’t made up his mind about whether to seek re-election; from the time of Ketchum’s filing on July 14 until the very last day of the filing period it was just Eveland and Ketchum.

But then in rapid succession came Allen Alsbrooks, Brooke Powell and Davis.

Powell, 56, has only lived in Maggie Valley for about two years, but spent more than 20 in Asheville; he’s originally from Ohio, but spent time in New Hampshire, Florida and Canada.

He said July 24 his background is in commercial construction and woodworking, and that he became interested in running for office after graduating from Maggie Valley’s first citizens academy, held this past spring.

“I really like Maggie Valley a great deal, for a lot of reasons,” he said. “I think it’s a well-oiled machine.”

A little too well oiled, maybe — Powell, a Democrat, says his main concern is speeding along busy Soco Road.

Alsbrooks, 53, shares Powell’s concerns; a Maggie Valley hotelier born in Washington, D.C., but raised in South Carolina, Alsbrooks has been in North Carolina since leaving the Air Force in 1992, and in Western North Carolina since 2007.

“I’ve been involved in Maggie since I got here, mostly behind the scenes,” said Alsbrooks, who currently serves on the Zoning Board of Adjustment but had also served on Maggie’s Planning Board. “Now it’s time to be more out front.”

Maggie Valley’s gotten “back on track” in the past five years, according to Alsbrooks; he cited the pedestrian safety plan and upcoming universal development ordinance

Municipal election timeline

• Oct. 6 — Absentee by mail requests begin

• Oct. 13 — Voter registration deadline

• Oct. 19 — One Stop voting begins

• Oct. 31 — Absentee by mail requests end

• Nov. 1-6 — Absentee requests for sickness, disability accepted

• Nov. 4 — One Stop voting ends

• Nov. 7 — Election Day

as positive steps, but has been outspoken in his criticism of the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority.

“I think they need to be looked at closely,” he said. “I think they waste a lot of money bringing things that don’t draw a lot of people to Haywood County.”

He also thinks the current zip code allocation system is flawed; his Hearth and Home Inn on Dellwood Road puts him in Maggie Valley, but his TDA collections go to Waynesville.

Still, Alsbrooks said he’d have supported the TDA’s proposed room tax increase, provided that money come directly back to Maggie Valley “with minimal TDA meddling.”

Like in Canton, board composition could change slightly; Eveland is registered as unaffiliated, and Davis is a Democrat. Ketchum and Powell are registered Democrats, and Alsbrooks is unaffiliated.

“Neither party represents me,” said Alsbrooks, who recently changed his registration from Republican. “They’re both selfserving, looking for memberships and money.”

Two of these four candidates will join Haywood County’s most politically diverse governing board; Mayor Saralyn Price is a registered Democrat, as is Alderman Dr. Janet Banks; Alderman Philip Wight is the lone municipal Republican.

Owing to Maggie Valley’s small yearround population of registered voters, it may take as little as 175 votes to gain a seat; as with this year, in 2015 there were two open seats and five candidates. Banks and Wight led the field with 237 and 166 votes, respectively, from a total of 603 cast.

Election sign-ups extended in Jackson

Too few candidates for Webster council

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFFWRITER

The sign-up period to run for municipal office is over in North Carolina, but the Jackson County Board of Elections voted to extend the deadline by a week in hopes that at least one more person will decide to run for the Webster Town Council. The new deadline is noon Friday, July 28.

Terms are up for three of five seats on the Webster Town Council, but so far only two people have filed for election — incumbents Leigh Ann Young and Allen Grant. Incumbent Danell Moses has not filed for re-election. The mayor’s seat will also be on the ballot, and incumbent Tracey Rhodes has signed up to run.

It’s not unheard of for the initial sign-up period to yield fewer candidates than offices, especially in small municipalities like Webster. Webster has only 262 registered voters.

“They’re just really small areas, so it does happen quite often,” said Elections Director Lisa Lovedahl.

In the event that nobody else signs up for Webster’s Town Council by the new deadline, the seat will be filled using writein votes, Lovedahl said.

While Webster is short on candidates, some of Jackson County’s municipal races will be contested. Timothy Hall signed up to run for Dillsboro’s Board of Alderman July 19, making him the seventh candidate in a race with five seats available. The other candidates are incumbents Beaufort Riddle, David Gates, Tim Parris and David Jones, as well as challengers James Cochran

Bryson City incumbents face challengers

Bryson City Board of Aldermen incumbents Rick Bryson and Janine Crisp will have to go up against three challengers to keep their seats in November.

Bryson and Crisp are both finishing up their first, four-year terms on the board and have received their fair share of criticism over the divisive issue of whether the town should relinquish its right of way to Fry Street so it can be closed to vehicular traffic. Swain County Chamber of Commerce members and the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad supported the closure for safety reasons associated with train rides, especially during the popular Polar Express in the winter months. However, the town board denied the full closure of Fry Street.

For Ben King, co-owner of Bryson City Outdoors and now a candidate for alder-

man, it was a much broader issue of the town being more progressive and working alongside local businesses to support the tourism industry.

The two other challengers are Lisa Anthony Weeks and Robert Brian Duplak.

While voter turnout for municipal elections in Bryson City are typically low, the town board of aldermen recently approved spending more than $3,000 to offer early voting days prior to the Nov. 7 election.

Incumbents run in Highlands

The municipal election is Highlands will be a quiet one since only the incumbents signed up to run. Mayor Patrick Taylor will serve another term and so will Highlands Commissioner incumbents Amy Patterson and Donnie Calloway.

and John Chinners. Incumbent Jim Cabe has not filed for re-election, but Mayor Mike Fitzgerald will run again.

While Sylva Commissioners Mary Gelbaugh and Barbara Hamilton don’t currently have any competition for re-election to their seats, Mayor Lynda Sossamon will run against Danny Allen when seeking another term. Allen served on Sylva’s board for 12 years before losing his 2015 bid for mayor to Sossamon — only three votes separated the two candidates. Hamilton had also run, coming in 12 votes behind Sossamon.

It’s not unheard of for the initial sign-up period to yield fewer candidates than offices, especially in small municipalities like Webster.

The Forest Hills Town Council will also see a contested race. Incumbents Clark Corwin and Carl Hooper, as well as challenger Jerry Rice, will vie for two open seats, with Mayor Kolleen Begley running for reelection and Sharon Stovall running for the council seat she was appointed to after Ron Mau resigned following his election to the Jackson County Board of Commissioners.

While the extension on the filing deadline was aimed at getting more candidates in the mix for the Webster election, the extension applies for all races in Jackson County, so it’s possible that additional candidates could enter multiple races by the end of the week.

Six vie for three seats on Franklin board

Sign ups for Franklin’s Town Council were coming in slow until the last day, and now there are six candidates signed up to run for three available seats on the board.

Councilmember incumbents Barbara McRae and Billy Mashburn signed up to run for another term while Patti Abel decided against a second term.

Challengers for the 2017 election will be David Culpepper, Greg Raby, Jimbo Ledford and Angela Moore. While Moore has run for town council before, the other candidates are newer to town politics. Culpepper, owner of Culpepper’s Otto Depot, often appears before the town board to offer his opinions on issues.

Moore also has been involved in town meetings — usually to express her dissatisfaction on how taxpayer money is being spent whether it’s donating to local nonprofits providing essential community services or railing against the town’s minimal hous-

ing standards ordinance.

Jimbo Ledford, owner of Jimbo’s Plumbing in Franklin, was one of several outdoor enthusiasts last April to present the town board with a concept for a multi-use town park at the former Whitmire property. The town has owned the green space property for years and still hasn’t made a decision on the best use for it.

McRae, former editor of The Franklin Press, is running for her second term in office. As a local historian, McRae has been heavily involved in the Nikwasi-Cowee corridor through Macon and Cherokee. While it was up in the air whether he would seek another term, Councilmember Billy Mashburn did sign up to run for reelection. He has served on the town board for about 20 years.

Interest was high for the board positions — though not as high as the 2013 election when 12 candidates signed up to run — but Mayor Bob Scott will not have to face any opponent before the election. Scott didn’t have a challenger during the 2015 election either. This will be Scott’s third term in office, though the mayor only serves two-year terms.

High cost puts public access to Parris cabin on hold

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFFWRITER

Aplan to build an amphitheater and stage next to the cabin where Sylva author John Parris once wrote newspaper articles and books celebrating life in the mountains of Western North Carolina has been nixed — for now, at least.

“I think it’s a great idea, and in my mind I can see a beautiful setting and a lot of great events that could take place there, but with that being said at $680,000 that’s a whole lot more than I ever imagined it would ever cost, and I couldn’t support doing it right now,” Jackson County Commissioner Chairman Brian McMahan said after hearing the project estimate July 11.

Originally, commissioners had asked Sylva-based Lofquist & Associates to look into the cost of addressing pressing safety and visual issues at the site, yielding a preliminary estimate of $96,000. But when the amphitheater got added to the potential project, that estimate increased seven-fold to $681,000.

“The thing that’s really challenging is you got 20 feet of vertical elevation change from the parking spaces down to this stage area,” engineer Victor Lofquist told commissioners July 11.

The Americans with Disabilities Act would require at least five ADA seats in the 180-seat amphitheater, with a series of eight ramp sections needed to reach the area.

Building those ramps — a requirement to allow any kind of public access to the cabin, even without an amphitheater — would account for about half the construction cost.

In addition, the project could have faced a zoning issue. The 0.14-acre property on which the cabin is located is zoned for residential use, so the county would need a conditional use permit from the town of Sylva to build an amphitheater. County Manager Don Adams said he’d heard concerns from neighbors that programs at the amphitheater would result in noise and related issues they’d rather not have next door.

The other commissioners agreed with McMahan’s assessment that, while the amphitheater project was a worthwhile goal, it didn’t justify spending $680,000 — at least not in this budget year. Lofquist suggested that commissioners consider moving the cabin up the slope a bit to reduce the cost of ADA compliance. Commissioners were receptive to the suggestion.

“The cabin is not original to that property — it was brought there from somewhere else,” McMahan said. “It might be worth that consideration to think about at some point.”

For the time being, however, the project is on hold.

The county purchased the 0.14-acre property containing the cabin for $75,000 in 2016. It’s adjacent to the Jackson County Public Library, just downhill from the parking lot,

and looks out over downtown. After purchasing the property, the county spent about $31,000 to remove vine-laden trees and a decrepit house on the property.

No decisions have been made as to what the cabin will be used for, though options discussed include an office for a nonprofit, a location for library programs or a small museum commemorating Parris’ work. None

of those uses would be possible until the ADA access issue is addressed, however.

While the amphitheater project won’t happen, at least for the time being, the county will likely move ahead with the safety and visual issues that were part of the original $96,000 estimate. Those issues include installing a storm drain and replacing a failing retaining wall.

ART AFTER DARK:

At just 3 months old, she experienced her first seizure, an experience that would send her family on a path that would change the world. Charlotte was suffering from 300 grand mal seizures per week when they met the Stanley Brothers, who had been developing proprietary hemp genetics. Together they created a hemp oil extract that was introduced into Charlotte’s diet in hopes of providing her relief.

Charlotte didn’t have a single seizure during the first seven days of treatment, which was a clear sign that the Figis had stumbled onto something extraordinary.

Today she is a nine year old who is thriving and enjoying life. The Stanley brothers assure consumers that the oil maintains a 30:1 ratio of CBD to THC. THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” effect in marijuana. Thanks to Charlotte’s Web, Charlotte can now live life like a normal child. She is able to feed herself and sleep through the night. Her autistic symptoms have virtually disappeared. As such, her mind is clear, and her attention is focused. Her brain is recovering, and she is happy.

Visit cwhemp.com for more info.

Law enforcement still searching for armed suspect

Numerous law enforcement agencies led by the Transylvania County Sheriff's Office are engaged in a search for Phillip Michael Stroupe II, a suspect who is known to be armed and dangerous.

All areas on the Pisgah Ranger District east of U.S. 276 and south of the Blue Ridge Parkway are closed due to ongoing law enforcement operations. Visitors to the Pisgah National Forest should avoid the area, which includes trails and roads in the Mills River area, Yellow Gap Road, Turkey Pen Gap, Trace Ridge, Wash Creek, North Mills River Campground, Wash Creek Group Horse Camp, Davidson River Road at Gloucester Gap and all roadside camping in the area.

U.S. 276 is also closed from the Pisgah Ranger District office in Brevard to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Attractions along this stretch of road are also closed, including Sliding Rock, the Cradle of Forestry in America and Looking Glass Falls.

point quickly exited his vehicle and stole a mountain bike, while pointing a firearm at the victim/owner. The suspect placed the stolen bike in his vehicle, and the vehicle pursuit continued. Deputies were unable to make contact at that instance due to the many hikers and campers on the roadway. Stroupe then blocked the roadway by parking his vehicle sideways, got on the stolen mountain bike, and fled into the woods.

On Saturday, July 22, Transylvania County Sheriff’s deputies received a call from Henderson County Sheriff’s Office in reference to a search for a suspect vehicle involved in a breaking and entering in Mills River near the Transylvania and Henderson County line.

Later that morning, Transylvania patrol deputies located a vehicle matching the description in Pisgah National Forest, just off U.S. 276 North. When a patrol deputy attempted to initiate a vehicle stop on Avery’s Creek Road, the suspect refused to stop and a vehicle pursuit ensued.

The suspect, now known to be Stroupe, continued on Avery’s Creek Road, and at one

Haywood drug traffickers plead guilty

Anthony Scott Price, 29, of Waynesville, was stopped by Waynesville Police Officer Tyler Howell at 2:30 a.m. after driving erratically on Russ Avenue.

Howell was suspicious of Price’s abnormally nervous behavior and a quick check revealed Price was out on parole. A consent search led to Price admitting to having drugs concealed in a body cavity, and more than 52 grams of methamphetamine were recovered once Price arrived at the jail.

Trafficking in methamphetamine carries a mandatory sentence of 70 to 93 months in prison and, at a minimum, a $50,000 fine. Price pled guilty on July 10 before visiting Superior Court Judge Eric Morgan and has since begun his sentence.

A perimeter was established in the area, and the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team was called out to attempt to locate the suspect. Other agencies assisting in the manhunt include the Brevard Police Department, the U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement, the N.C. State Highway Patrol (including helicopter support), the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office (including a Special Response Team), the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation and the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office. As of The Smoky Mountain News’ July 25 press time, the suspect had not been found.

Stroupe’s last known address was Weaverville. He is described as a 38-year-old white male, about 5-feet 8-inches tall, with a small build. He has a shaved head and a large distinct tattoo on his neck just under his chin. The suspect has a history of violence and resisting law enforcement. He has outstanding warrants in Buncombe County for kidnapping, and he also has pending charges in Yancey County.

Contact the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Office at 828.884.3168 with any tips. For updated information, visit www.facebook.com/nfsnc.

In September 2016, Jessie Elizabeth Thomas, 34, of Waynesville, was stopped by Haywood County Deputy Nathan Deweese for a minor traffic violation. Thomas had more than 8 grams of methamphetamine, 1.15 grams of heroin and 5.13 grams of fentanyl in her pants.

On July 18, Thomas pled guilty to trafficking in opium for possessing fentanyl. Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Bradley B. Letts imposed the mandatory sentence of 70 to 93 months and the minimum fine of $50,000.

In March 2017, Haywood County deputy David Stoller responded at 11:30 p.m. to a domestic call at the Meadowland Apartments in Clyde. Stoller arrived and found Joshua Ray Warren, 38, of Waynesville, to be in possession of more than 38 grams of methamphetamine.

On July 20, Warren pled guilty to trafficking in methamphetamine and received the mandatory 70 to 93 month prison sentence and a $50,000 fine.

What’s in the cards?

Entrepreneurs go face-to-face with customers

going on upstairs can only be described as the “anti-yoga.”

Virginia Tech alum Ian MacDonald — Jay’s husband — is also an entrepreneur; originally from Virginia, he found himself working on laboratory information management systems in Atlanta.

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER

Since late April, The Smoky Mountain News series on economic development has focused on the financial health of Haywood County, the mechanisms by which state, local and national governments encourage economic development and the various sectors that make up the county’s economy.

Those sectors — tourism, manufacturing, retail, real estate, health care, agriculture — all play roles of varying importance locally despite holding wildly divergent business models, product offerings and pay scales.

The one thing they do share in common, however, is that they’re all underlain by entrepreneurs — those brave souls who strike out on their own to perhaps stake out a small claim on their own little piece of the American dream.

Sure, many of them don’t make it — 20 percent of all small businesses don’t survive their first year, and a full 50 percent aren’t around after five years, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

But the ones that do can grow far beyond the mom-and-pop shops like Chip Singleton’s Custom CNC shop in Clyde, or Michelle Rogers’ Select Homes in Waynesville or Justice Rogers’ Not So Old Toys and Collectibles in Canton.

Apple was started by one person, as was Nike; although businesses of that scale are

one-in-a-million, entrepreneurs who start operations like Steve Jobs and Phil Knight did back in the ‘70s drive economic growth in counties all across the United States, including Haywood County.

“I think Waynesville is a good place to start a business because people want to live here. And if they don’t want to live here, they want to visit here,” said Jay MacDonald.

The Atlanta native MacDonald moved to the area in late 2001 after closing a security and investigations company she’d owned in Georgia; she’s currently in the process of renovating a grand old home at 274 South Main Street, which will become the Waynesville Yoga Center after it opens Aug. 12.

“I realized Asheville is sort of a Mecca for yoga on the east coast,” MacDonald said. “I think Waynesville is really changing. You’ve got lots of younger families moving here, an interesting melting pot of all different kinds of people.”

MacDonald hopes to cater to locals as well as tourists who don’t want to interrupt their healthy lifestyles just because they’re on vacation.

MacDonald’s yoga studio will offer a variety of classes like Pilates, tai chi and barre in small groups or privately as well as workshops, retreats and possibly even nutritional seminars and cooking classes once it fully occupies the bottom floor of the house.

But the yoga studio will only occupy the bottom floor of the house; what’s

“It bloomed and then sort of shrank, and in that time I found a job up here in Asheville,” MacDonald said.

About a year later, that job wasn’t panning out, so he began working for the Atlanta company from home.

“I didn’t have to move back, and they were happy with me, so it worked out really well,” he said.

After a few years of that, friends who started a psych practice approached MacDonald to create from scratch an electronic health record.

“I went and looked at what they had and I was like, ‘Oh man, I can do better than this,’ so I just dove in,” he said.

He began getting up at 5 a.m., coding until 9, working until 5 p.m. on other projects, and then putting in a few more hours of coding. After eight months, he was pretty much finished.

“We’re celebrating our 10th anniversary this month,” he said of his Waynesvillebased company, Pimsy EHR.

Initially, Pimsy was intended to be a local company.

“I had thought that word of mouth would work, and it kind of did,” he said.

Just a few years prior, President George W. Bush signed a mandate requiring all medical service providers to switch from paper records to electronic systems of the type MacDonald built within 10 years.

The thought was that electronic records would eliminate dangerous diagnostic and prescription errors and increase efficiency, especially on the insurance billing side of things.

As the scramble for the pricey systems ensued, MacDonald began to branch out nationally.

“As soon as I did that, I was getting 30 leads a month,” he said. “And then I had to hire a salesperson. Now we get 60 to 70 leads a month, and we’re in 40 states.”

MacDonald’s currently trying to navigate patient privacy laws — which vary from country to country — so he can take his business international, but seems to like being in Waynesville just fine.

“We sell an internet product,” he said. “It’s a cloud based service, so we can be anywhere.”

As it turns out, the only better state Pimsy could be in is Utah; according to

Forbes Magazine North Carolina was again ranked as the second-best state in which to be in business.

The 2016 report cites North Carolina’s low business startup costs, unobtrusive regulatory environment and future prospects for growth as reasons for the high ranking.

Western North Carolina holds the additional advantage of having some pretty substantial natural assets.

“We’ve got a lot of cool stuff here, and as I grow it’s becoming more and more important to have people here. Especially with developers, it’s complicated, so face-to-face is best. I try to hire good people first, but if I can get somebody good that’s local, I’ll do it,” he said.

It is precisely this type of job creation that makes the entrepreneurial sector so important in Haywood County’s economy, but those without the resources of the MacDonalds can still get the help they need to become, like the MacDonalds, job creators.

“The primary objective when I meet a client is to ensure that their passion has a market,” said Katie Gould, director of Haywood Community College’s Small Business Center.

Gould said the SBC is part of the most extensively funded state business development network in the nation; the SBC pro-

“We’ve got a lot of cool stuff here, and as I grow it’s becoming more and more important to have people here. Especially with developers, it’s complicated,

so face-toface is best.”

— Ian MacDonald

vides resources to entrepreneurs free of charge, and also does some micro lending.

“We see everything,” Gould said, referring to the types of businesses she’s worked with at the SBC; recent successes include Waynesville Soda Jerks and Elevated Mountain Distillery.

Gould, who was recently recognized as the 2015 N.C. Small Business Center Network’s Rookie of the Year, joins certified economic developer Mark Clasby of the Haywood Economic Development Commission and certified Chamber Executive Cece Hipps of the Haywood Chamber of Commerce as an important resource for entrepreneurs looking to locate in Haywood County — not that most people need a lot of arm-twisting to do that.

“We love it here,” said Ian MacDonald. “We’re vested in this community, we just bought that big building, and we’re here to stay. What’s nice is, this whole area pulls people from everywhere. I can’t tell you how many programmers have shown up in the last two weeks, and that’s really encouraging to me.”

Woman hit with drug charges

Haywood County Deputies with the assistance of the Maggie Valley Police Department K9 arrested Brandy Marie Grogan, 35, Thursday evening along Dellwood Road.

According to a press release, sheriff’s deputies seized 199.7 grams of methamphetamine, 32.5 grams of cocaine, 163.3 grams of marijuana, 32 doses of Suboxone, assorted pills, $2,097 in cash, a concealed handgun and a set of brass knuckles.

Grogan was charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver methamphetamine (PWIMSD), trafficking cocaine, PWIMSD cocaine, felony possession of marijuana, PWIMSD marijuana, maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place for the sale of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed gun, carrying a concealed weapon, and speeding. Grogan was given a secure bond of $750,000.

Free self defense class offered

Haywood County Farm Bureau and Kevin Brooks of the Haywood County Sheriff’s office are offering a program to women who would like the opportunity to be proactive by developing methods to avoid dangerous situations.

“Refuse To Be A Victim” will be offered at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 15, at Haywood County Farm Bureau, 1520 Asheville Road, Waynesville. Refreshments will be served.

Brooks is a certified instructor for NRA, and this program is only available by a certified instructor. This course is filled with techniques and suggestions to help women avoid putting themselves in a situation that could place them in danger. It will cover a variety of safety tips for many situations at home, in the workplace, online, fraud, in your car and many other situations.

RSVP by Aug. 8 by calling Karen Greene 828.452.1425 or email karen.greene@ncfbssc.com.

Life jacket loaner stations available in Jackson

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 27, at Bear Lake (off of Hwy 281 to the gravel road, Bear Lake Road) to honor the opening of a new life jacket loaner station in the community.

This loaner station is one of five in Jackson County. Community members are invited to officially open the loaner station and celebrate all who had a role in making the project a possibility. Safe Kids Jackson County has partnered with local and state organizations to provide five loaner stations within the county. Each loaner station will house life jackets of varying sizes, from infant to adult, for children to borrow while they participate in water activities near the site.

For more information, call 828.587.8227.

WAYNESVILLE TIRE, INC.

Waynesville charter school embarks on year three

Thanks to a $10,000 grant, Shining Rock Classical Academy constructed an outdoor classroom on campus. Donated photo

SRCA to add eighth grade this fall, searches for high school property

BY J ESSI STONE

N EWS E DITOR

Shining Rock Classical Academy administrators have their hands full preparing for the school’s third year, expanding to eighth grade, accommodating up to 100 more students, improving student performance and searching for property for a future high school.

It’s a lot to juggle at once for the first public charter school to open in Haywood County, but SRCA Board Chairwoman Anna Eason said the board, teachers, staff and students are taking it in stride.

“Any organization has challenges when they’re new, but we’re looking forward to the coming school year,” she said. “We learned in year one we needed to do some things differently in year two and now we’ve learned a lot from year two we can carry forward to year three.”

During SRCA’s first year, classes were held inside Lake Junaluska’s Wilson Children’s Center while school leaders continued to look for a permanent campus. Once the school purchased modular classrooms and secured a land lease on Lake Junaluska Assembly property, teachers and students had more room to spread out.

“I'm very proud of our board, who has renewed its focus on our mission,” said School Director Ben Butler. “I'm also excited that we've been able to add key staff positions including an assistant director position to share my administrative load and a director of student services, who will focus on helping us develop extracurriculars and coordinate our field trips.”

ADJUSTINGTOGROWTH

Even with their own classroom space, many teachers at SRCA are still adjusting to a curriculum they probably never taught

By the numbers

Shining Rock Classical Academy, a public charter school in Waynesville, recently approved its 2017-18 school year budget of $3.2 million. The state does provide per student funding to charter schools but they do not receive funding for capital expenses like traditional public schools.

Current number of students on the waiting list for SRCA

• Kindergarten — 71

• First — 23

• Second — 28

• Third — 0

• Fourth — 22

• Fifth — 22

• Sixth — 32

• Seventh — 9

• Eighth — 3 spaces available

before arriving at SRCA. While traditional public schools are required by law to teach the Common Core Standards, public charters are allowed to choose their own curriculum. SRCA went with Core Knowledge Curriculum — the standards being taught through Core Knowledge are similar to Common Core, but the way those lessons are taught can be much different.

Core Knowledge is a rigorous, contentbased curriculum that emphasizes learning subject matter as a gateway to increased language skills. SRCA also uses Singapore math, which teaches students many ways to solve a problem to accommodate different learning styles.

“I love Singapore math — it teaches kids every way and lets them pick which way works best for their brain,” Eason said. It may be better for different learning styles, but teachers are adjusting to teaching math in a whole new way. Eason said SRCA would be using a different Singapore textbook next year for

to take.

“This book will help teachers not have to fill in so many blanks before the test,” she said.

TESTSCORESDROP

SRCA’s overall proficiency scores, which are based on the end-of-grade testing, declined by 9 percent in year two. Only 62 percent of students achieved a passing proficiency ranking this year compared to the 73 percent who achieved a passing score last year.

Eason and Butler said they aren’t overly concerned about the dip in scores and are hopeful those scores will increase over time. They attributed the lower scores to the fast growth occurring in the student body and many of the students coming to SRCA for the first time have never been exposed to the Core Knowledge curriculum or the more hands-on learning approach at SRCA.

“We went from 226 (students) in year one to over 350 in year two and this year we expect to have over 400 so it is a lot of growth,” Eason said. “There was a huge learning curve from year one to year two — now we’re better prepared moving into year three.”

“Our growth definitely impacted our performance on the state tests. Over the long term, Shining Rock must become a rigorous and challenging school,” Butler said. “High EOG scores are not the holy grail of education, but over time our scores should reflect the fact that our students are being challenged and are growing.”

Adding a grade per year is definitely ambitious but it’s typically how other charter schools develop as well if they have intentions to be a K-12 school. The SRCA board wants students to be able to experience a different type of public education from beginning to

end. Just as it is difficult to transition to a charter school, it would be just as challenging for an eighth-grade student at SRCA to transition back into the traditional public school for high school.

“We want to be different — we don’t want to duplicate what we already have here,” Eason said. “Some charters start with K-3, we started with K-6, which created a lot more challenges, but it’s nothing we can’t handle.”

Butler also acknowledged the challenges that come with an increasing student body every year, but sees things leveling off as SRCA reaches its current max of over 400 students with the addition of eighth grade.

“It's challenging to adjust to the increasing needs of our increasing student body,” he said. “This year, I think we have more realistic

expectations of how to serve our families. Growth was definitely one of our biggest challenges last year.”

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

SRCA puts a lot of work into making sure its students have as many out-of-the-classroom experiences as possible throughout the year. This experiential learning component is what sets the charter school apart from the traditional public schools.

“Our Kindergarten classes already have eight field trips planned for next year,” Eason said.

The trips always coincide with a lesson plan whether it’s a class visiting the Knoxville Zoo to learn about animals, the Arboretum to learn about bugs or visiting a plantation in Charlotte to learn about the Civil War era.

Next year third-grade students get to go to the Atlanta Aquarium, fifth grade is going to Camp Daniel Boone and eighth graders are going to Washington, D.C., to study politics.

Of course coordinating and funding all these trips can get complicated and expensive. Parents are responsible for paying for the field trips but SRCA is constantly fundraising to defray the cost for all students attending.

SRCA is also promoting Jerimy Rinker to serve as the Experiential Learning Coordinator. Rinker has been with SRCA

since the first year and has driven buses and coordinated field trips in addition to serving as the school’s athletic director. Eason said having a designated field trip coordinator would take some pressure off the teachers so they can focus on the curriculum.

Even when they aren’t taking field trips, SRCA students do a lot of their learning outside the classroom. Thanks to a $10,000 grant from Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina, SRCA was able to install an outdoor classroom on its Lake Junaluska campus and hopes to add several more in the future.

EXPANDINGTOHIGHSCHOOL

The SRCA board is also discussing options for adding ninth through 12th grade in the future. There’s no more room for growth at the Lake Junaluska campus so administrators are looking elsewhere for a separate high school campus. But Eason said it’s tough to find a suitable building or developable land in Haywood County — it’s the same issue they ran into trying to find the right place for K-6 classrooms.

The board plans to form an exploratory ad hoc committee to look into options and hopes to make a decision by this fall.

If the expansion happens, Eason said the No. 1 priority has to be meeting the school’s mission of providing a rigorous curriculum and a focus on experiential learning.

“We’ve created a committee to clarify the vision with regard to the outdoor experiential learning and making sure teachers are utilizing Core Knowledge with hands on projects,” Eason said. “Everything hinges on facilities and making sure we can do a good job. We know not everyone will stay with us — some will want a different kind of high school experience. It might take us a while to get there.”

Even if SRCA does find a location for a high school, it can only grow one grade per year per state law.

MOUNTAIN SOUVENIRS

Cherokee to conduct census

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFFWRITER

Acensus of people living on the Qualla Boundary will soon begin following a unanimous vote from Tribal Council to approve $273,000 for the project.

The expenditure would cover a $187,000 contract with the U.S. Census Bureau to manage the census and $86,000 to pay local workers to carry it out.

Principal Chief Richard Sneed had originally presented the census proposal during May’s Tribal Council meeting, when he was still vice chief. However, the numbers hadn’t come back soon enough to make it onto the official agenda for that month and it wasn’t heard as an emergency resolution. This time around, the resolution to fund the census appeared on the regular agenda and passed unanimously.

Contracting with the Census Bureau will allow the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to cite the resulting numbers as official census data and reference them in grant applications.

“Right now we’re using generic data for Native Americans in general,” Sneed told Tribal Council in May. “With this data it will be specific to the EBCI.”

Once a memorandum of agreement is signed and funding approved, Sneed told Council, the census will begin within 90 days.

While the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ Charter and Governing Document mandates that a census be conducted once every 10 years, the last one was in 2001 — 16 years ago.

Current numbers are important not only as references for grant applications and various reports, but also for determining representation on the Tribal Council. Council

votes are tallied according to a weighted vote count. Each of the 12 members’ votes is worth a different number of points out of 100, with that number dependent on the population of the township represented.

These point values range from six for representatives of Painttown and Snowbird/Cherokee County to 12 for representatives of Birdtown and Wolfetown. When the census is complete, it’s possible those values could change.

The lack of current census data came into the spotlight this May during the legal battle surrounding the impeachment of former Principal Chief Patrick Lambert. Attorney General Danny Davis had argued that the Cherokee Supreme Court should order a halt to impeachment proceedings until a new census could be completed.

“Because the Appellee Tribal Council has failed to conduct a census and properly allocate a weighted vote, which are required by Section 19 of the Charter and Governing Document, and because Section 22 of the Charter requires a two-thirds vote by Council for impeachment, it is impossible, at this time, for any impeachment vote or proceeding to be accurately ‘weighted,’” Davis’ trial brief read.

The three-judge panel constituting the Cherokee Supreme Court did not agree, however, ruling that impeachment proceedings could continue. Lambert was eventually removed from office.

During the May Tribal Council session, tribal member Becky Walker addressed Council to ask that they do something to ensure that the EBCI wouldn’t go another 16 years without a new census.

“This census will have to be conducted again, so I would like to ask that when you guys start setting this up, set up some procedures and parameters so the next time we’re not just sitting here at ground zero again,” she said. “It’s a commitment we should be making every 10 years to our Charter, to our people.”

Though no such plan has yet been presented, Tribal Council Chairman Bill Taylor, of Wolfetown agreed with Walker’s assessment.

“I know it’s 10 years down the road, but we need to have a plan set in place and budgeted,” he said.

Community Almanac

Grace Church to host parish fair

Grace Church in the Mountains will host its Annual Parish Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 29, on the church grounds at 394 North Haywood Street, Waynesville. This is Grace Church’s largest fundraising event and has been ongoing for more than 30 years. Proceeds benefit Haywood County nonprofit organizations — last year 20 groups received grant support from the event. Lunch food will be available, which this year will be barbecue and fixings and drinks. Donations can be dropped off at Thatcher Hall at the Church from 9 a.m. until noon, Wednesday, July 26. Call 828.456.6029.

Impersonators headline STAR Ranch benefit

STAR Ranch Horse Rescue in Waynesville, will host a benefit show at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at The Strand at 38 Main in downtown Waynesville.

The performance will feature two popular impersonators — Stewart Chapman as Elvis Presley and Jamie Simpson as comedian Jeff Foxworthy. Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased by calling 828.548.0778 or by visiting www.38main.com.

REACH of Macon to hold training

REACH of Macon County (also serving Jackson County) will be holding a two-day Volunteer Training from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Aug. 17-18 at Jackson County Public Library.

The training is open to anyone interested in providing direct-client services within the agency. Topics to be covered are the dynamics of domestic violence, rape crisis, court advocacy, history of domestic violence, shelter services, confidentiality and REACH policies and procedures.

To register for the training, visit www.reachofmaconcounty.org.

Harrah’s donates $25,000 to Folds of Honor

Harrah's Cherokee Casinos recently presented a $25,252 donation to Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that assists military families by providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of those fallen or disabled while in service to our nation.

Alan Seay, Food & Beverage Manager at Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, played a huge role in getting the funds to Folds of Honor by setting up a beverage promotion at each property.

“I started to think about Memorial Day and how often the true meaning of the holiday is forgotten,” said Seay. “I thought it would be a great idea to promote Folds of Honor as a token of appreciation for the service and sacrifice our military men and women make to our nation.

Everyone did a fantastic job making this fundraising effort come to life.”

For more information on Folds of Honor visit www.foldsofhonor.org or email support@foldsofhonor.org.

Franklin forum to discuss digital age

“In the digital age, are students learning more?” will be the topic for the Franklin Open Forum to be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7, at the Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub, located downtown at 58 Stewart Street in Franklin.

Franklin Open Forum is a moderated discussion group. Those interested in an open exchange of ideas (dialog, not debate) are invited to attend. For more information, call 828.371.1020.

Waynesville library grant to be used for a StoryWalk

The Fund for Haywood County recently granted $9,000 to the Haywood County Public Library from the Mib and Phil Medford Endowment Fund.

Partnering with the Town of Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department, the grant will be used to install a StoryWalk along the Vance Street Park walking trail. A StoryWalk is a family activity that promotes physical activity and early literacy. Pages from a children’s picture book are mounted and spaced apart allowing participants to walk from one page to the next to read the book.

Visit www.fundforhaywoodcounty.org.

Hospice House receives $500 grant

Hospice House Foundation of WNC recently received a $500 grant from Swain County Unrestricted Endowment Fund, a component of the North Carolina Community Foundation.

The mission of HHFWNC is to raise funds for a regional hospice inpatient facility (Hospice House) that will serve the six far western counties of WNC, the Qualla Boundry and Northeast Georgia. To date, $3 million has been received/pledged toward this $5 million capital

construction project. The facility will be centrally located in Franklin, and will be named the SECU Hospice House, in recognition of the State Employees’ Credit Union’s anticipated $1 million investment.

828.524.6375 or www.hhfwnc.org.

Grants available for women’s services

The North Carolina Community Foundation is accepting grant applications for projects funded from the Women’s Fund of North Carolina.

Grant funds are available for nonprofit organizations that sponsor programming that supports women and/or families. Programs must serve areas within the NCCF service area. Grant amounts typically range from $1,000 to $3,000. The deadline for submitting applications is noon Aug. 8. Grant recipients will be informed of the grants committee’s decisions in early fall.

Applications are available at nccommunityfoundation.org.

Macon nonprofit helping the homeless

Macon New Beginnings, Inc. and Integrated Organizational Design, Inc., with funding from Evergreen Foundation, have completed the second phase of a strategic plan to provide a road map for the Macon County community to address homeless challenges for the next three years.

The first two stages of the plan identified strengths, opportunities, aspirations and methods to track results (SOAR), and prioritized objectives. The next phase is to build the community’s implementation team focused on accomplishing the plan’s goals and objectives.

Swain calendar tells a story

The Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society has published “Glimpses of the Past: A Historical Calendar of Swain County,” an 18-month calendar with relating aspects of history of Swain County.

Each month has a page of pictures with a narrative article explaining the history of that topic and includes facts that may be familiar to some and facts that are probably less known. Calendars are $20 and are available for purchase at the Genealogy Library, on the square above the police department. The Genealogy Library is open 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

Girls on the Run receives $3,500

The Fund for Haywood County recently awarded $3,500 to Girls on the Run of Western North Carolina to provide Haywood County girls with the physical activitybased positive youth development program designed to meet the social, emotional and physical needs of third to eighth grade girls.

Girls on the Run is a 10-week program offered in the fall and spring at schools and community centers. Over the course of the three-month season, participants make new friends, celebrate what makes them unique and develop skills to successfully navigate life challenges.

• The Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society annual picnic will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 3, at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center, 45 East Ridge Drive, Bryson City. Bring a covered dish to share.

• REACH of Macon County is in needof volunteers to give a helping hand on several projects at the shelter, including painting, assembling playground equipment, sealing wood deck/fences and more. If interested, call the Macon office at 828.369.5544 or the Jackson office at 828.586.8969.

• Macon County students Autumn Lance, Natalie Owens and Jena Vogt recently placed at the 2017 N.C. State 4-H Horse Show. With over 400 riders from across the state competed in Raleigh, Macon’s Hoofprint 4-H Club won 28 ribbons.

• Friends of the Library will host its annual Book Sale from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 27, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, July 28, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at the Waynesville Library. There are thousands of books and something for everyone. All items are individually priced and great bargains.

• Hospice House Foundation of WNC recently received a $250,000 donation in honor of the late Evie Brynes, one of HHFWNC’s founding board members. Brynes was instrumental in the raising of close to $1 million in support of the Foundation’s mission to construct a regional Hospice House in Franklin.

We have to decide: turn left or right?

We got to the stop sign at the bottom of our mountain in our fully loaded truck — bikes, camping gear, clothes, food, coolers, books, magazines — and we had to make a decision: left or right. On the fly, we chose left.

Left meant Interstate 40 and the route up through Knoxville, Lexington, Cincy, Toledo and eventually to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Right would have taken us up I26 and eventually through Columbus, Ohio, before turning west and then north to make our destination. GPS programs touted the I-40 route as shorter, but travelers we had talked to said the other way was often faster because you avoided so many large cities.

The deciding factor? My wife, Lori, had just recently taken part of the I-26 route to West Virginia to visit our niece. “It was beautiful, but I want to see something different,” she said. Left it was. This is often how we travel, making last-minute decisions and choosing along the way what to do, kind of a meandering adventure with purpose. But, this time circumstances had conspired to make this trip even more unscripted than usual. Sometimes life’s craziness just happens.

It’s Tuesday morning as I write this. We had houseguests begin arriving Thursday night as the annual week-long McLeod birthday celebration was on. Lori’s birthday is July 22, my son Liam’s is on July 26 (turning 19) and my daughter Megan’s is on July 28 (turning 25). By Friday night, between children, their friends and our friends, we were hosting 11 people who were staying over. More family came to dinner and the number swelled to 16. It was fun; no that comes off as too G-rated, so let’s call it raucous.

Thanks to Franklin, Macon leaders

To the Editor:

As a proud Great Lakes kid, I am so pleased that Franklin Town Council and Macon County commissioners have voted to make Macon a green county and town by supporting the U.S.A. “Climate Alliance.”

I was born in Michigan. My family began their U.S. experience on the shores of Lake Michigan. Due to World War II events, my parents moved to Ohio, near yet one other of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie.

I was horrified to read about the ‘Larsen C’ ice shelf breaking off in the Antarctic. One reason the article caught my eye was that it referenced one of the Great Lakes. The ice shelf is not only the size of Delaware, but the resulting iceberg has the volume of twice that of Lake Erie.

Climate-change deniers say human activity doesn’t have an effect on climate, even though most of us believe it does. Even if you think it doesn’t exist, why not err on the side of caution? The last time I looked, we all live on this

After a couple of days of attending Folkmoot events, we decided to head for Asheville and go tubing on the French Broad to relax. Anyone who hasn’t floated down a river on a hot day is missing out on one of summer’s more relaxing pastimes. The French Broad can get crowded, but it really doesn’t matter: the water is cool, the scenery interesting, and it’s a great way to just chill.

Editor Scott McLeod

But, this is where the weekend got more chaotic. While we were on the river, my daughter’s car got broken into. Smashed driver’s side window, wallets, phones, cash and watches all gone. Four phones, two purses, two watches, one wallet, a bunch of ticked off people. Lori’s purse was one of those stolen, so gone was our travel credit card, her driver’s license, her phone.

That meant that Sunday — our day to pack and get ready for our trip — was spent talking to those great customer service reps who have to work weekends, a trip to the Verizon store, and everyone involved trying to make sure they covered all their bases.

This was also the day our newspaper was sponsoring the “Sunday Soiree” concert at the Folkmoot Center, so we had to cut short any pre-trip planning that evening, instead going to one of the best Folkmoot-related shows I’ve ever attended, a great ending to an otherwise tedious day.

Did I mention one of my wisdom teeth had started giving

one little blue planet we call Earth, and it needs us to take care of it..

I’m not concerned about me, but what kind of world are we leaving those who follow us?

So, thank you to the Franklin and Macon County elected leaders for taking this step — all our steps together will add up.

Shirley Ches Franklin

Rep. Meadows is doing us no favors

To the Editor: Scott McLeod hit the proverbial nail directly on its head July 12th in his assessment of our representative (ww.smokymountainnews.com/opinion/item/20350) and I use that term very loosely), Mark Meadows, “fighting the wrong fight.’ Rep. Meadows is one step ahead of our President (but only marginally) in the thinking before he speaks department and in regard to the southern border wall, any thinking at all on Meadows’ part, is a stretch.

problems on Friday afternoon? Pain here and there, which got worse as the weekend progressed. I tried to ignore it, but by Monday it was not going away. As everyone who uses Verizon knows, a trip to their store is often compared to having a root canal.

Well, I was in enough pain by Monday that I had to schedule an emergency visit to the dentist. A quick consult turned into a two-hour vigil that ended with my first root canal; from there — a twofer I wouldn’t wish on my most my worst enemy — I had to make another trip to the Verizon store to finish up business. Nothing more to be said for what kind of Monday it was shaping up to be.

Finally back home, Lori had almost everything ready and we started loading the truck. We got going, realized we had forgotten our best source of info on the Upper Peninsula and had to turn around and make one last trip to the house, grab the magazine, and back down the hill.

We turned left. Almost five hours later, we were passing through Boonesborough, Kentucky, and spotted a sign for a state park and campground. We wheeled in, set up camp, popped beers, and ate crackers, cheese and hummus. I could feel myself decompressing, and Lori made my day: “This is so much better than any motel; we’re outside, listening to the crickets, watching the sunset. This is great,” she said. Cheers to that.

As I write this, we are north of Cincy, hoping to make Mackinaw by evening. Unless we decide to make a turn. Who knows?

(Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com.)

LETTERS

With no respect due what-so-ever, Rep. Meadows is pursuing a personal agenda of advancing his own power, wealth and influence through association and a quasi leadership position with a misnamed and ill-conceived “Freedom Caucus.” I have no respect at all for people willing to shut down our government (which hurts our economy locally and nationally and directly hurts the common citizen) while in pursuit of wrongheaded ambitions such as a wall between us and our neighbors to the south.

With health care in total disarray due to the GOP's lack of concern for their fellow Americans coupled with their fixation to destroy everything Obama tried diligently to accomplish, plus our national debt of over $20 trillion, the student loan ripoff, a faltering national infrastructure, and other serious problems, to obsess over an unneeded border wall is a slap in the face to men and women of good conscience and affirms yet again how far the Republican Party is willing to drift from the foundation of “representative government” many of us once believed was the fun-

damental underpinning of this once great nation.

David L. Snell Franklin

Is this a teachable moment?

To the Editor:

We all wish Sen. John McCain a speedy recovery. Sen. Mitch McConnell kindly delayed the vote on repeal of healthcare and decimation of our safety net until McCain can rejoin the Senate.

This brings up several questions:

1. Is the care the esteemed senator is receiving the same as we receive as lowly citizens under ObamaCare?

2. How would that care change if McConnellCare is passed?

3. After his hospital stay, what would be McCain’s vote on repealing ObamaCare (the best solution to our healthcare crisis so far)?

That’s all I have to say for now.

Caryl Brt Haywood County

Finding your beach

Erestaurants. No chain hotels. No red lights. Nothing except the cars people drive to indicate whether it is 2017 or 1957. The time doesn’t fly — it minds its own business, and we mind ours. Nothing flies by here but the pelicans.

disto Beach, South Carolina – I will never forget the pictures. The day after Hurricane Matthew plowed through — and plowed up — Edisto Beach last October, I found a series of photographs someone had taken of the devastation along Palmetto Boulevard, which was no longer visible underneath a deep layer of sand and debris. Beachfront decks had been reduced to heaping mounds of kindling, street signs snapped like match sticks slanting this way and that, the twisted and jagged remains of patio furniture and wind-blasted beach umbrellas resembling giant, metallic insects, various and sundry decorations that had once adorned quaintly-appointed residences, now strewn haphazardly across the landscape like toys in a child’s playroom.

I felt a cable snap inside me, and my heart fell through my chest like an elevator down the shaft of a high-rise hotel. For a moment, I literally could not get my breath. When I did, I sent my wife a text message with a link to the photographs. We’ve been coming to Edisto for 10 years and dream of someday owning a condo here so that we can visit several times each year, and maybe even live here part-time. Over the years, we’ve learned just about every bike path and shortcut there is to be found. We have our favorite places to eat, our favorite spots to watch dolphins dance in the twilight and pelicans fly in shifting formations over the surf, even our favorite beach access.

Even in the icy grip and short, dark days of January when we are back home in the mountains, we can close our eyes and drift lazily down Jungle Road or Palmetto Boulevard, and feel instantly warmer, cozier, more relaxed. Above all other things, Edisto Beach is a place to relax, a place to lie in a hammock with a cold drink and a good paperback, a place to slow down and be present in each moment with little temptation to look either forward or backward.

Our years seem to scream past us like a roller coaster at the bottom of a steep drop, the faces of our children flashing by us so fast that all we can do is try to capture the moment the best we can. In a photograph. In a memory. The baseball games, the band performances, the grade reports, the sleepovers, all of it a blurry whirl, each week packed tight with practices, deadlines, commitments, games, homework, schoolyard dramas, teetering alliances, makeshift meals wolfed down at 9 p.m. We live on a rigid schedule because we have to, racing from one thing to the next, one hour to the next.

No wonder, then, that our trips to Edisto are like stepping out of time. When we are on the island, no one thinks or cares about what time it might be. The beach itself is like a place out of time. No chain

After Matthew roared through and tore Edisto apart — my wife’s text back to me read, “Oh my God” — we wondered whether we would be able to book our vacation, even though it was eight or nine months away. But the local officials and citizens put on a brave and chipper face, promising to rebuild. Within a few days, bulldozers had scraped most of the sand off of Palmetto Boulevard, and in the weeks and months to follow, construction projects began to rebuild those shattered decks as well as the beach itself.

So, we booked our vacation for late July as we always do, wondering what changes were in store for us and whether we would notice much of a difference so many months after the hurricane.

When we arrived on Tuesday afternoon, the first thing we did was take a drive down Palmetto Boulevard. We could see the gleaming new decks on many of the beachfront homes, and yellow tape stretched along the shoreline to keep people away from areas where the erosion was the worst. Several of the beach accesses were closed, still under repair. We got out of the car next to the Pavilion, one of our favorite spots — usually the first glimpse of the ocean we get when we come here — and were shocked to see how little of the beach was left. Up and down the coast, the storm surge had eaten the beach in massive gulps, devouring almost all of the sea oats and sand fencing along with it. Long gentle slopes had been replaced by abrupt, sharp declines. We also noticed that many of the homes were now for sale, with real estate signs up and down the boulevard a fairly common sight.

Otherwise, to our great relief, Edisto was still Edisto. The Sea Cow restaurant is still here, with the best French Toast you’ll find anywhere. People still line up over 200 deep every Tuesday and Thursday at the Lion’s Club to play bingo. You can still get an amazing key lime pie at the King’s Market. You can still read a paperback in a hammock without the slightest interest in whether it is 4 o’clock or 9 o’clock.

Our tenth anniversary trip here is like visiting a family member in the hospital recovering from a terrible accident, bruised and battered, but still vital, intact, and alive. On our first full day, we load up and head for beach access 21, tooling down the boulevard in our Subaru.

“Play Bob Marley, dad,” my daughter says.

“Yeah,” my son joins in, breaking into song. “I shot the sheriff, but I did not shoot the deputy.”

When I turn on the CD player, Marley sings, “Don’t worry about a thing, cause every little thing is gonna be alright.”

I turn it up, and everybody sings along.

tasteTHE mountains

Taste the Mountains is an ever-evolving paid section of places to dine in Western North Carolina. If you would like to be included in the listing please contact our advertising department at 828.452.4251

BLOSSOM ON MAIN

128 N. Main Street, Waynesville. 828.454.5400. Open for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Mild, medium, to hot and spicy, our food is cooked to your like-able temperature. Forget the myth that all Thai food is spicy. Traditional Thai food is known to be quite healthy, making use of natural and fresh ingredients, paired with lots of spices, herbs, and vegetables. Vegetarians and health conscious individuals will not be disappointed as fresh vegetables and tofu are available in most of our menu as well as wines and saki chosen to compliment the unique flavors of Thai cuisine.

BLUE ROOSTER SOUTHERN GRILL

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

BOGART’S

303 S. Main St., Waynesville. 828.452.1313

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

BOURBON BARREL BEEF & ALE

454 Hazelwood Ave., Waynesville, 828.452.9191. Lunch served 11:30 a.m. to

2:30 p.m.; Monday through Saturday. Dinner 5 to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Closed on Sunday. We specialize in hand-cut, all natural steaks from local farms, incredible burgers, and other classic american comfort foods that are made using only the finest local and sustainable ingredients available.

BREAKING BREAD CAFÉ

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

CATALOOCHEE RANCH

119 Ranch Dr., Maggie Valley. 828.926.1401. Family-style breakfast seven days a week, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. – with eggs, bacon, sausage, grits and oatmeal, fresh fruit, sometimes French toast or pancakes, and always all-you-can-eat. Lunch menu every day from 12 to 2 p.m. Dinner becomes a gourmet experience this year with the arrival of our new Chef CJ, whose training and skills include French, Mediterranean, Asian, Middle Eastern and, of course, New Age Southern cuisine. Saturday night will feature an evening cookout on the terrace, with choices such as Korean barbecue and shrimp. On all other nights of the week, the chef will prepare gourmet plated dinners with locally sourced vegetables, homemade breads, jellies and desserts. We also offer a fine selection of wine and beer. The evening social hour starts at 6pm, and dinner is served starting at 7 p.m. Please call for reservations.

CHEF’S TABLE

30 Church St., Waynesville. 828.452.6210

From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday dinner starting at 5 p.m. “Best of” Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine. Set in a distinguished atmosphere with an exceptional menu. Extensive selection of wine and beer. Reservations honored.

CHURCH STREET DEPOT

34 Church Street, downtown Waynesville. 828.246.6505. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Mouthwatering all beef burg-

ers and dogs, hand-dipped, hand-spun real ice cream shakes and floats, fresh hand-cut fries. Locally sourced beef. Indoor and outdoor dining. facebook.com/ChurchStreetDepot, twitter.com/ChurchStDepot.

CITY LIGHTS CAFE

Spring Street in downtown Sylva. 828.587.2233. Open Monday-Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tasty, healthy and quick. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, espresso, beer and wine. Come taste the savory and sweet crepes, grilled paninis, fresh, organic salads, soups and more. Outside patio seating. Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly. Live music and lots of events. Check the web calendar at citylightscafe.com.

THE CLASSIC WINESELLER

20 Church Street, Waynesville. 828.452.6000. Underground retail wine and craft beer shop, restaurant, and intimate live music venue. Kitchen opens at 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday serving freshly prepared small plates, tapas, charcuterie, desserts. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday night at 7pm. www.classicwineseller.com. Also on facebook and twitter.

COUNTRY VITTLES: FAMILY STYLE RESTAURANT

3589 Soco Rd, Maggie Valley.

828.926.1820 Winter hours: Wednesday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Family Style at Country Vittles is not a buffet. Instead our waitresses will bring your food piping hot from the kitchen right to your table and as many refills as you want. So if you have a big appetite, but sure to ask your waitress about our family style service.

EVERETT HOTEL & BISTRO

16 Everett St.,Bryson City. 828.488.1934

Open daily for dinner at 4:30 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday Brunch from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; dinner from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Serving fresh and delicious weekday morning lite fare, lunch, dinner, and brunch. Freshly prepared menu offerings range from house-made soups & salads, lite fare & tapas, crepes, specialty sandwiches and burgers. Be sure not to miss the bold flavors and creative combinations that make up the daily Chef Supper Specials. Followed by a tempting selection of desserts prepared daily by our chefs and other local bakers. Enjoy craft beers on tap, as well as our full bar and eclectic wine list.

FERRARA PIZZA & PASTA

243 Paragon Parkway, Clyde. 828.476.5058

Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.;

Sunday 12 to 8 p.m. Real New Yorkers. Real Italians. Real Pizza. A full service authentic Italian pizzeria and restaurant from New York to the Blue Ridge. Dine in, take out, and delivery. Check out our daily lunch specials plus customer appreciation nights on Monday and Tuesday 5 to 9 p.m. with large cheese pizzas for $9.95.

FRANKIE’S ITALIAN TRATTORIA

1037 Soco Rd. Maggie Valley. 828.926.6216 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Father and son team Frank and Louis Perrone cook up dinners steeped in Italian tradition. With recipies passed down from generations gone by, the Perrones have brought a bit of Italy to Maggie Valley.

FROGS LEAP PUBLIC HOUSE

44 Church St., Downtown Waynesville 828.456.1930 Serving lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; Dinner 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. 5 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. Frogs Leap is a farm to table restaurant focused on local, sustainable, natural and organic products prepared in modern regional dishes. Seasonal menu focuses on Southern comfort foods with upscale flavors. www.frogsleappublichouse.com.

J. ARTHUR’S RESTAURANT AT MAGGIE VALLEY

U.S. 19 in Maggie Valley. 828.926.1817

Open for dinner at 4:30 to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. World-famous prime rib, steaks, fresh seafood, gorgonzola cheese and salads. All ABC permits and open year-round. Children always welcome. Take-out menu. Excellent service and hospitality. Reservations appreciated.

JUKEBOX JUNCTION

U.S. 276 and N.C. 110 intersection, Bethel. 828.648.4193. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Serving breakfast, lunch, nd dinner. The restaurant has a 1950s & 60s theme decorated with memorabilia from that era.

MAD BATTER FOOD & FILM

617 W. Main Street Downtown Sylva. 828.586.3555. Open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Hand-tossed pizza, steak sandwiches, wraps, salads and desserts. All made from scratch. Beer and wine. Free movies Thursday trought Saturday. Visit madbatterfoodfilm.com for this week’s shows.

MAGGIE VALLEY CLUB

tasteTHE mountains

1819 Country Club Dr., Maggie Valley. 828.926.1616

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

MOUNTAIN PERKS ESPRESSO BAR & CAFÉ

9 Depot St., Bryson City. 828.488.9561

Open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. With music at the Depot. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Life is too short for bad coffee. We feature wonderful breakfast and lunch selections. Bagels, wraps, soups, sandwiches, salads and quiche with a variety of specialty coffees, teas and smoothies. Various desserts.

NEWFOUND LODGE RESTAURANT

1303 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee (Located on 441 North at entrance to GSMNP). 828.497.4590. Open 7 a.m. daily. Established in 1946 and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Family style dining for adults and children.

PAPERTOWN GRILL

153 Main St., Canton. 828.648.1455

Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Serving the local community with great, scratch-made country cooking. Breakfast is served all day. Daily specials including Monday meatloaf, chicken and dumplings on Thursdays and Friday fish.

PATIO BISTRO

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

RENDEZVOUS RESTAURANT AND BAR

Maggie Valley Inn and Conference Center 70 Soco Road, Maggie Valley 828.926.0201 Home of the Maggie Valley Pizzeria. We deliver after 4 p.m. daily to all of Maggie Valley, J-Creek area, and Lake Junaluska. Monday through Wednesday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. country buffet and salad bar from 5 to 9 p.m. $11.95 with Steve Whiddon on piano. Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 11:30 to 8 p.m. 11:30 to 3 p.m. family style, fried chicken, ham, fried fish, salad bar, along with all the fixings, $11.95. Check out our events and menu at rendezvousmaggievalley.com

SAGEBRUSH STEAKHOUSE

1941 Champion Drive, Canton

828.646.3750 895 Russ Ave., Waynesville

828.452.5822. Sunday through Thursday

11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Carry out available. Sagebrush features hand carved steaks, chicken and award winning BBQ ribs. We have fresh salads, seasonal vegetables and scrumptious deserts. Extensive selection of local craft beers and a full bar. Catering special events is one of our specialties.

SALTY DOG'S SEAFOOD & GRILL

3567 Soco Road, Maggie Valley.

828.926.9105. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Full service bar and restaurant

located in the center of Maggie Valley. Featuring daily $6 lunch specials and daily dinner specials such as $1 Taco Tuesdays and 45¢ Wednesday Wings. Backyard Bar is open every weekend thru October. Join us for every NFL game.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN SUB SHOP

29 Miller Street Waynesville

828.456.3400. Open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. A Waynesville tradition, the Smoky Mountain Sub Shop has been serving great food for over 20 years. Come in and enjoy the relaxed, casual atmosphere. Sub breads are baked fresh every morning in Waynesville. Using only the freshest ingredients in home-made soups, salads and sandwiches. Come in and see for yourself why Smoky Mountain Sub Shop was voted # 1 in Haywood County.

SPEEDY’S PIZZA

285 Main Street, Sylva. 828.586.3800

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

TAP ROOM BAR & GRILL

176 Country Club Drive, Waynesville. 828.456.3551. Open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tucked away inside Waynesville Inn, the Tap Room Bar & Grill has an approachable menu designed around locally sourced, sustainable, farm-to-table ingredients. Full bar and wine cellar. www.thewaynesvilleinn.com.

TRAILHEAD CAFE & BAKERY

18 N Main Street, Waynesville.

828.452.3881 Open 7 days a week. You will find a delicious selection of pastries & donuts, breakfast & lunch along with a fresh coffee & barista selection. Happy Trails!

VITO’S PIZZA

607 Highlands Rd., Franklin. 828.369.9890. Established here in in 1998. Come to Franklin and enjoy our laid back place, a place you can sit back, relax and enjoy our 62” HDTV. Our Pizza dough, sauce, meatballs, and sausage are all made from scratch by Vito. The recipes have been in the family for 50 years (don't ask for the recipes cuz’ you won't get it!) Each Pizza is hand tossed and made with TLC. You're welcome to watch your pizza being created.

WAYNESVILLE PIZZA COMPANY

32 Felmet Street, Waynesville.

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

WAYNESVILLE’S BEST BURGERS

Field of Dreams

Featuring a state-of-the-art recording facility, Myriad Media will officially open for business on July 28. Kurt Volker photo

If you build it, they will come

BY KURT J. VOLKER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

In a sense, Warren and Phil Drake and Warren’s wife Ronda have created their own field of dreams in the magical mountains of Macon County.

Tucked between Dalton’s Christian Bookstore and Angel Urgent Care at the Georgia Road and N.C. 64 in Franklin, is a rather non-descript storefront, marked by the corporate logo Myriad Media. While not open to the general public as a regular business normally is, Myriad Media is available by appointment and does provide a complete service for those seeking to create their own unique musical identity.

IN THE BEGINNING

“When I was a teenager, working in my father Clyde’s accounting business, Phil and I had a dream about someday getting into the music business,” Warren Drake said.

As is often the case with young dreamers, that plan was put on hold until just recently. The young Drake brothers had grown up in the church with their other three siblings and Christian music was an integral part of their daily lives. Warren, a bespectacled 56-year-old with a graying ponytail, began singing gospel music at an early age. He proved so adept at his musical ability that he applied to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, auditioned, and was accepted. He decided at the

As a teenager, Warren joined his brother in the family accounting business and since the mid-‘80s has been in charge of marketing, sales, and training. He travels regularly and is responsible for a territory encompassing Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

Today, Drake Software is one of the largest, if not the largest, privately held companies of its kind in the U.S., employing about 600 people in their software division (900 total) with offices in Franklin, Dillsboro, and Hayesville, and Nashville, Tennessee.

A MATCH MADEIN HEAVEN

It was 1994 when Warren met his future wife Ronda. Music was the glue that brought them together.

“I was singing at an Atlanta church where Ronda’s sister and her husband were on staff,” he said.

Both Warren and Ronda were married with children at the time and they only saw each other “for two or three minutes that first time,” said Warren.

Ronda and her family were very active in the church gospel choir, and as fate would have it, both singers’ paths would cross from time to time. By 1996, both had separated and Warren was singing in Atlanta with the all black Charles Westmoreland Chorale.

Although there was no romantic involvement, Warren recalls, that event would literally transform their lives.

By 2002, both realized their love for music, the church, and their growing interest in each other sparked some discussions about the possibility of marriage.

“We started talking and spontaneously asked each other if we did marry, what date would we choose,” Ronda said with a smile.

They both scribbled a month and day on a piece of paper and gave it to each other. May 15, each had written. As it turned out it was a Wednesday.

“Who gets married on a Wednesday?” Warren laughed. But they did.

And the couple have been making beautiful music together ever since, singing gospel music wherever it leads them and touring occasionally with their Elvis Presley Tribute Band, featuring Mark Eskew as Elvis.

DIVINE INTERVENTION

Flash forward to 2016. Reviving the dream they had years ago, Phil Drake approached Warren regarding a possible location for their long-held dream.

“I had been collecting sound and lighting equipment for years and needed a space for it,” Warren said.

“When I was a teenager, working in my father Clyde’s accounting business, Phil and I had a dream about someday getting into the music business.”

— Warren Drake, Myriad Media

time however, not to pursue that opportunity.

Meanwhile, his older brother Phil (“I’m the younger, better looking one,” jokes Warren) had completed his studies in math at the prestigious Davidson College near Charlotte. “He was (and still is) one of those genius guys at pure math,” Warren continues.

Phil Drake had been teaching math in the Greenville, South Carolina metro school system, but when their father’s health started to fail, he came back to help with the business.

“I had done tax returns with a pencil before,” said Phil Drake, “but I didn’t want to stay in the accounting business under those circumstances.”

So, as any “typical” math genius might do in 1977, the senior Drake bought an IBM 5100 computer.

“They called it transportable because you could move it with a hand truck,” he recalled.

He then taught himself coding, and created the accounting software used today by more than 60,000 independent tax accountants across the U.S.

Again, by chance, Ronda would join the Westmoreland Chorale in 1998, the only two white singers in the all black gospel group.

And perhaps by divine guidance, the per-

S EE MYRIAD, PAGE 23

Visit Myriad Media

Myriad Media, located at 185 Franklin Plaza Drive, in Franklin, is planning a grand opening for Friday, July 28, with a ribbon cutting at 2 p.m. There will be studio tours open to the public beginning at 2:15 p.m., with three live bands performing from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

If you think you have what it takes, schedule an appointment with Myriad Media to create your own demo. 828.349.5800.

This must be the place

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

‘Holding

too tightly, afraid to lose control’

This one? This one hurt.

When I heard Thursday afternoon about the tragic suicide of Chester Bennington, lead singer for Linkin Park, I was taken back, as if someone had punched me in the chest. Suddenly, dozens of memories started flooding my field-of-vision. I remember listening to their groundbreaking mix of hard rock and hip-hop in middle school, seeing them in Montreal in high school, and always blasting their melodies before track-and-field meets all throughout my adolescence and early adulthood.

HOT PICKS

1

Mad Anthony’s Taproom & Restaurant will have a “Grand Reopening” from noon to 2 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at 180 Legion Drive in Waynesville (behind Bogart’s).

2

The silent film series “A Trip to the Moon and Beyond: The Fantastical Science Fiction Silent Films of George Melies” will be screened with live music at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 2, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin.

3

As part of its “Summer Music Series,” the Marianna Black Library presents an evening with Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and Grammy Award winner Bill Mize at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 27, in Bryson City.

4

The “An Appalachian Evening” summer concert series will continue with Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at the Stecoah Valley Center.

Besides the mere fact Bennington was only 41 when he took his life, and also leaving behind six kids, what struck me was that one of the key voices and faces of my generation was forever silenced. Myself at age 32, Linkin Park was one of those groups that really hit home for millions of those alienated and disgruntled kids in my generation. In an era of sugarcoated boy bands and glittery rap, Linkin Park was a can of spray paint and broken bottles on the walls of the early 2000s.

5

Acclaimed hard rock act Seether will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 30, at Harrah’s Cherokee.

times, but the lyrics and the lead singers all came from a real place of similar and personal trials and tribulations to mine.

Bennington’s suicide comes almost exactly two months after the sudden death (also by suicide) of Soundgarden lead singer Chris Cornell, a personal friend of Bennington’s. Both vocalists died by hanging themselves, alone and left to their thoughts. They each painted melodic pictures to express not only the pain and trouble they were facing, but also the same emotions channeled by those hearing and soaking into their songs echoing from radios and stereos around the world. They told us to be strong, that we’re all in this together, and yet, now our leaders of the charge of love and compassion are now gone.

Bennington dealt with being abused and molested as a child with drugs and alcohol, additions that haunted him his entire life.

That same trajectory of sadness, success and untimely death mirrored that of the late Scott Weiland, lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots. Raped as a kid, Weiland disguised his pain with booze and heroin, and also found music as his outlet for a platform of inner peace. When I interviewed Weiland just before his passing in 2015, we talked about his constant battles with addiction and mental illness resulting from his traumas as a kid.

“Yeah, it’s something that’s so common. Most people that have [mental illness] don’t even know they have it and people that know that they have it don’t want to be medicated for it because it’s not something like taking an aspirin for a headache,” Weiland told The Smoky Mountain News.

“It’s something that is trial and error. It’s like throwing darts at a dartboard until you hit the bull’s eye and finding the right medication that works."

In a weird “six degrees of separation” kind of thing, Bennington was actually brought in as the front man for Stone Temple Pilots (2013-2015) after Weiland was kicked out for his issues. Weiland also found a second chance at rock glory with his super group Velvet Revolver, featuring members of Guns N’ Roses and rhythm guitarist Dave Kushner. Following the breakup of Velvet Revolver, the demise of Stone Temple Pilots, and Weiland’s death, Kushner went on to form The Hellcat Saints, an all-star rock act, fronted by Bennington.

“I didn't know Chester, but I did have a chance to go out and talk with him and a mutual friend, Dave Kushner, a few weeks back. On all accounts, [Chester] seemed fine, happy, smiling, didn't seem the type to end things so abruptly,” Stevie Dacanay, guitarist for hard rock juggernaut Buckcherry, told me this week when asked about Bennington. “But, that's the thing with depression. It's a complicated disease, with no simple solution. It's a combination of genetic, environmental layers, [where] no two cases [are] alike, and not every person with depression has every symptom or the same exact symptoms as someone else. Someone can be suffering and you'd never know. I know how hopeless and real an imbalance feels, and I hope anyone reading this understands that there is real help and solutions out there waiting for you.”

And at the center of this whirlwind of sound was Bennington. One of the most powerful vocalists in recent memory, Bennington’s howl was so piercing and personal, it was almost like if he screamed loud enough he could spit out his personal demons, or perhaps quiet the voices of distress in his head, and also in the hearts of his listeners.

I don’t think there is such a thing as the

“perfect family,” where we all carry our own baggage of chaos and confusion behind the closed doors of white-picket fences and perfectly manicured lawns. And my family was far from perfect. Sure, there was (and still is) love at the end of the day. But, there was also emotional and physical abuse, as seen and felt by seemingly everybody you come in contact with, and reveal your past to, in hopes of solidarity.

And going to school was no different. Picked on. Called a “faggot.” Called a loser, a nerd, a “waste of space,” a “waste of air,” etc. I wasn’t the first kid to be called these things, nor will I be the last. But, I found solace, friendship and compassion in bands like Linkin Park, Korn, Puddle of Mudd, and so on. The music was loud and over-the-top at

New Food Truck from Mad Batter Saturday, July 29th 8pm

On the beat

Joe Lasher Jr. to headline Hillbilly Jam

The “Hillbilly Jam” will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 28-29 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds.

The weekend event will feature live music, food, crafts, cornhole, car show, and much more. Throughout the two-days, there will be several bands onstage, including headliners Andalyn Lewis (rock) and Emi Sunshine (singer-songwriter) on Friday and Lyric (soul/funk) and Joe Lasher Jr. (country/rock) on Saturday. Other bands include Ali Randolph & the Outta Luck Band, Hannah Styles, Ryan Perry Band and Stone Crazy Band. There will also be a car and bike show, and special appearances by characters from the popular TV show “Moonshiners.”

Tickets are $10 per day, free for ages 10 and under. Event organizers will be running a shuttle from Eaglenest Entertainment, located at 2701 Soco Road, starting at 1 p.m. Saturday. The event is sponsored by Sugarland Distilling, Smoky Mountain Steel Horses and Maggie Valley Inn. For a full schedule of events and more information, visit www.thehillbillyjam.com.

‘An Appalachian Evening’

The “An Appalachian Evening” summer concert series will continue with Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at the Stecoah Valley Center.

Mountain Faith homecoming

Popular bluegrass/gospel group

Summer Brooke & Mountain Faith will perform during Concerts on the Creek at 7 p.m. Friday, July 28, in downtown Sylva. The event is free and open to the public. PMA (reggae/fusion) will play Aug. 4. www.facebook.com/oldirtybathtub.

Seether to rock Harrah’s

Acclaimed hard rock act Seether will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 30, at Harrah’s Cherokee.

The South African band has been rock-

ing radios for 15 years and has amassed 20

Top 5 singles, three platinum records, a fan-beloved gold-selling DVD and scores of No. 1 singles including “Fine Again,” “Fake It,” “Remedy,” “Broken,” “Words As Weapons,” “Country Song,” “Breakdown,”

“Rise Above This,” “Same Damn Life,” “Truth,” “Gasoline,” “Driven Under” and their infamous cover of “Careless Whisper.” The band has also been recognized by the South African Music Awards, MTV Africa Music Awards, and Revolver Golden Gods Awards.

Letters from the Fire will open the show. For tickets, call 800.745.3000 or visit www.tickemaster.com.

Bryson City community jam

A community music jam will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 3, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer, anything unplugged, are invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in or you can just stop by and listen. The jam is facilitated by Larry Barnett of Grampa’s Music in Bryson City.

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 — year-round. 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. 828.488.3030.

The annual bluegrass/mountain music series will also feature The Bankesters (Aug. 5), The Freight Hoppers (Aug. 12), The Jeff Little Trio (Aug. 19) and The Kruger Brothers (Aug. 26).

Tickets for the Balsam Range performance are $30 for adults, students and grades K-12 $10. Tickets are a pre-show dinner are also available for purchase. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com.

Grammy winner at Marianna

As part of its “Summer Music Series,” the Marianna Black Library presents an evening with Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and Grammy Award winner Bill Mize at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 27, in Bryson City.

Mize, who recently moved to Bryson City, is a son of Tennessee, and a fitting representative of his state’s rich musical heritage. His critically lauded fingerstyle compositions are fluid and intricate, and their delivery masterful.

“I received most of my musical education from a cheap Zenith radio,” says Mize, who as a child drifted off to sleep to the decidedly nonsleepy lullabies emanating from Nashville’s WLAC and WSM and Knoxville’s WNOX.

Frequently performing with Mize is Beth Bramhall, a multi-instrumentalist on accordion. Her music has been heard at the Focus Festival of New Music, in an Emmy Award Winning documentary, and in a number of live theatre, CD and television projects.

Mize received a Grammy Award for his collaboration with musician David Holt on the recording “Stellaluna.” He is a past winner of the National Fingerstyle Guitar Competition at The Walnut Valley Festival. In 2009, Mize’s music appeared in the Ken Burns documentary “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.” This program is free and open to area residents and visitors. Plus, snacks and refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Marianna Black Library. For more information, call the library at 828.488.3030 or visit www.fontanalib.org/brysoncity.

fect venue appeared. It just happened to be the same storefront as the former Franklin gospel radio station many remember as “The Dove“ and most recently, the Tech Place.

So an agreement was reached and the brothers began revamping the storefront into what today is a joint operation with the recording studio in one half and Back Lot Productions, a Drake Ventures audio/video service in the other half.

“We wanted Myriad Media to be a fullservice recording, audio/video facility for use by the general public,” Warren said.

“With affordability being a key factor,” Phil added.

Ronda Drake, 55, a vivacious lead singer of note herself, lent her interior decorating skills to create a homey, welcoming effect as you enter the studio. Here, you are greeted by splashes of color and an ambiance of a comfortable living room, complete with leather couches, an upright piano, a stainless steel Roland drum set, abstract art, and Andy Warhol type portraits of Marilyn Monroe and James Dean.

Down the polished hallway on the left are colorful, seven-foot poster-style renderings of Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, The Beatles, Jimmie Hendrix, Sammy Davis Jr., and Keith Morrison. To the right are the audio/video production offices of Back Lot Productions.

Further down the hallway on the left is the Band Cave, a large, beautifully appointed recording studio, complete with an ebony Ibach baby grand piano, comfortable

lounges, coffee tables, rugs, backdrops, and lighting. A smaller recording studio is located just off the Band Cave to the back right as you enter.

The sound room “where the magic happens” is the next door down the hall on the left. In addition to the ultra hi-tech sound board, comfortable couches, coffee tables, soft lighting, and an electric fireplace complement the colorful décor.

This is the lair of sound engineer Luis Diaz, a classically trained guitarist who attended the Conservatory of Music in Puerto Rico. He then went on the Berkeley College of Music for Music Production and Engineering. Diaz also attended Western Carolina University.

“I made a career with the U.S. Air Force Band and had the opportunity to perform with Jaime O’Neall, Restless Heart and others,” he said.

Diaz has also recorded with Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Cece and Bebe Winans and has studied with a number of iconic jazz legends. In addition, Diaz worked for Vine Records out of Nashville as a mixing engineer, utilizing his skills with a variety of well-known gospel singers.

It’s here in the sound room that Diaz uses all his experience to produce just the right mix of background, blending, and a bit of magic to render a flawless, finished product.

Rounding out the facility are a wellappointed changing room and a break room complete with an old-fashioned, rotary dial, red wall phone, checkerboard tile, gumball machine, and a jukebox. On the far wall is a small painting of The King, Elvis Presley.

REVELATIONS

“We’re really proud of what we’ve created here,” Warren said. “The name Myriad means a variety, in this case, the variety of services we provide.”

From an in-house band, to graphic design, to vocal support, to videos, to jingles, to voice overs, and more, Myriad Media is poised to literally do it all.

“We’ve assembled a great staff from our scheduler/receptionist Rebekah George, to sound engineer Luis Diaz, to video editor Kim Dahn, to graphic artist and voice over specialist Jeff Laurance, and copy writer Carol Gill,” Warren said.

Myriad has already had a number of Nashville artists visit the facility and express their interest in recording here. Drake said his long-term goal is to publish, have their own label, and offer complete management services.

The facility, located at 185 Franklin Plaza Drive, in Franklin is planning a grand opening for Friday, July 28, with a ribbon cutting at 2 p.m. There will be studio tours open to the public beginning at 2:15 p.m., with three live bands performing from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

For more information on the studio, visit its Facebook page Myriad Media. (Kurt J. Volker is a writer/photographer living in Otto. He may be reached at volkerks4742@frontier.com.)

On the beat

Shenandoah rolls into Franklin

Legendary country act Shenandoah will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

Fueled by Marty Raybon’s distinctive vocals and the band's skilled musicianship, Shenandoah became well known for delivering such hits as “Two Dozen Roses,” “Church on Cumberland Road” and “Next to You, Next to Me” as well as such achingly beautiful classics as “I Want to be Loved Like That” and the Grammy winning “Somewhere in the Vicinity of the Heart” duet with Alison Krauss.

Today, that legacy continues as original members Raybon and Mike McGuire reunite to launch a new chapter in Shenandoah's storied career.

“We are really proud of the quality of the material that we have in our catalog and how it's touched so many people’s lives,” McGuire said. “As far as the future goes, I’m expecting more of the same.’

Tickets start at $24. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 866.273.4615 or visit www.greatmountainmusic.com.

Franklin welcomes The Coasters

A legendary doo-wop group well known for hits such as “Yakety Yak,” “Charlie Brown,” “Young Blood” and “Searchin,’” The Coasters will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 28, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. The engaging and infectious combination of amusing lyrics, onstage antics, and well-crafted music helped make The Coasters one of the most entertaining doo-

• Andrews Brewing Company (Andrews) will host The Pressley Girls (Americana/bluegrass) July 28 and Granny’s Mason Jar (Americana/bluegrass) July 29. All shows are free and begin at 6 p.m. There will also be a “Bluegrass Jam with Heidi” at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. www.andrewsbrewing.com.

• Bogart’s Restaurant & Tavern (Waynesville) will host Boogertown Gap String Band (bluegrass) July 27 and Bull Moose Party (bluegrass) Aug. 3. All shows are free and begin at 6:30 p.m.

• The Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Jay Brown (guitar/harmonica) July 28, Joe Cruz (piano/pop) July 29 and Aug. 5, and Speakeasy Night with The 9th Street Stompers (gypsy jazz) Aug. 4. All shows are

Shows are free and begin at 7:30 p.m. www.curraheebrew.com.

• The Cut Cocktail Lounge (Sylva) will host an open mic night at 8 p.m. on Mondays. All welcome. 828.631.4795.

• Derailed Bar & Lounge (Bryson City) will have music at 7 p.m. on Saturdays. 828.488.8898.

• Friday Night Live (Highlands) will host (country) July 28 and Mountain Dulcimer Group (bluegrass) Aug. 4. All shows are free and begin at 6 p.m. www.highlandschamber.org.

ALSO:

• Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host Marc Keller (singersongwriter) July 29 and Good Direction Aug. 4. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.froglevelbrewing.com.

• Groovin’ on the Green (Cashiers) will host The Buchanan Boys (country/rock) July 28 and The Jackson Taylor Band Aug. 4 at The Village Green. All shows are free and begin at 6:30 p.m. www.visitcashiersvalley.com.

• Guadalupe Café (Sylva) will host Folks’ Songs (world/fusion) from 7 to 9 p.m. on Fridays. Free.

• The Oconaluftee Visitor Center (Cherokee) will host a back porch old-time music jam from 1 to 3 p.m. July 29. All are welcome to come play or simply sit and listen to sounds of Southern Appalachia.

• Pickin’ in the Park (Canton) will be held at 7 p.m. July 28 and Aug. 4 at the Recreation Park. Free and open to the public. www.cantonnc.com.

• Pickin’ on the Square (Franklin) will host The Caribbean Cowboys (beach/pop) July 29 and Johnny Webb Band (country) Aug. 5. All shows are free and begin at 7:30 p.m. www.townoffranklinnc.com.

• Pub 319 (Waynesville) will host an open mic night from 8 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday with Mike Farrington of Post Hole Diggers. Free and open to the public.

• Satulah Mountain Brewing (Highlands) will host “Hoppy Hour” and an open mic with Susan at 6 p.m. on Thursdays and live music on Friday evenings. 828.482.9794 or www.satulahmountainbrewing.com.

• Saturdays on Pine (Highlands) will host The Company Stores July 29 and PMA (reggae/fusion) Aug. 5. All shows are free and begin at 6 p.m. www.highlandschamber.org.

wop vocal groups of all-time. Their legacy started with a string of hits that ran from the 1950s through the 1970s. Their repertoire has had a significant impact on rock artists over the last six decades, and many of their songs have been recorded by artists such as The Beach Boys, Ray Stevens, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles.

Tickets start at $18. To purchase tickets to see The Coasters or to find out more information about this or any other show at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, visit www.greatmountainmusic.com or call 828.273.4615.

free and begin at 7 p.m. 828.452.6000 or www.classicwineseller.com.

• Concerts on the Creek (Sylva) will host Summer Brooke & Mountain Faith (bluegrass/gospel) July 28 and PMA (reggae/fusion) Aug. 4 in Bridge Park. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. 828.586.2155 or www.mountainlovers.com.

• Concerts on the Square (Hayesville) will host Paradise 56 (country/classic rock) July 28 and Modern Vinyl (rock) Aug. 4. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. www.cccra-nc.org.

• Currahee Brewing (Franklin) will host their “One Year Anniversary Party” with Whiskey On Sunday (4 p.m.) and Scott James Stambaugh (singer-songwriter) July 29.

• Innovation Brewing (Sylva) will have an Open Mic night July 26 and Aug. 2, and a jazz night with the Kittle/Collings Duo July 27 and Aug. 3. All events are free and begin at 8 p.m. www.innovation-brewing.com.

• Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host David Patterson (singer-songwriter) July 28. All shows are free and begin at 8 p.m. 828.349.2337 or www.lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Music on the River (Cherokee) will host Trippin Hardie Band (acoustic) July 28, Aaron Jones (honky-tonk) July 29, AM Superstars (alternative) Aug. 4 and Will Hayes Band (country/rock) Aug. 5 on the Oconaluftee River Stage. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. www.visitcherokeenc.com.

• Nantahala Brewing Company (Bryson City) will host Shane Meade & The Sound (rock/fusion) Aug. 4 and The Get Right Band (rock/soul) Aug. 5. All shows are free and at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.nantahalabrewing.com.

• The Nantahala Outdoor Center (Nantahala Gorge) will host The Buchanan Boys (country/rock) July 29. All shows are free and begin at 6 p.m. www.noc.com.

• No Name Sports Pub (Sylva) will host Post Hole Diggers (folk/Americana) July 28 and Colby Deitz Band (Americana/rock) July 29. All shows are free and begin at 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. www.nonamesportspub.com.

• Sneak E Squirrel Brewing (Sylva) will host line dancing every Friday at 7 p.m. and contra dancing every other Friday at 8 p.m. 828.586.6440.

• Soul Infusion Tea House & Bistro (Sylva) will host a music showcase with Noon Day Sun, Tommy Dennison and Chris Cooper July 29. All shows begin at 7 p.m. 828.586.1717.

• Southern Porch (Canton) will host Stone Crazy Band (classic rock) from 7 to 9 p.m. Aug. 4. 828.492.8006 or www.southern-porch.com.

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

• Tunes on the Tuck (Bryson City) will host Karen “Sugar” Barnes (folk/blues) July 29 and Grandpa’s Music (bluegrass/mountain) Aug. 5 at Riverfront Park. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. www.greatsmokies.com.

• The Ugly Dog Pub (Highlands) will host The Company Stores July 29 All shows begin at 9:30 p.m.

• Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will Colby Deitz Band (Americana/rock) July 28 and John The Revelator (Americana) July 29. All shows begin at 9:30 p.m.

• Waynesville Pizza Company will have an open mic night at 7 p.m. Aug. 7. Free and open to the public. 828.246.0927 or www.waynesvillepizza.com.

When India comes to town

Cherokee man receives N.C.’s highest honor

‘We want the peace’

Folkmoot comes full circle, enters new era

When India comes to town

BY J ERICA ROSSI FOLKMOOT G UIDE

When asked which country I wanted to be a guide for during the 2017 Folkmoot Festival, it was a no brainer: India.

It was while I was studying and traveling through the states of Gujarat and Kerala that I fell in love with the vibrant colors and aromatic cuisine that India boasts of. It was then that I also had my first taste of being completely intoxicated by the up-tempo drum beat and the tenacity of the synchronized dancers — a kind of high that hits your stomach and demands you to be completely present and in tune with your senses.

Since moving to this little mountain town of Waynesville, and after spending the majority of my twenties living in Asia, I find myself constantly succumbing to the wanderlust blues and craving the fragrances and sounds that I’d grown so accustomed to in the East. Luckily for me, being a guide for Folkmoot meant I didn’t have to break the bank or say goodbyes in order to feed my insatiable appetite for culture.

As a first-year guide, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but knew my outgoing nature and ability to thrive on chaos would serve me well. As I stood at the airport awaiting the arrival of the Utkarsh Dance Academy team from Gujarat, I realized that I’d never been the one holding the sign or waiting in bag-

gage claim. Yet here I was, about to be responsible for moving 26 people around Western North Carolina for the next 12 days. And it wouldn’t be long before we’d be sharing laughs and frustrations, or bonding on long bus rides and over a shared love for spicy foods.

While the public gets a taste of what Folkmoot is about during parades or performances at local venues, the real energy of

“It’s music and culture that have ultimately been my vehicle to that feeling of enchantment, to knowing what it means to be alive in the purest sense of the word.”

Folkmoot seems to happen at the center when the performers casually come together to share their love for movement — always engaging in impromptu dance parties.

After the “Gala on the Green” last Thursday (at the Folkmoot Friendship Center in Waynesville), the auditorium was bursting at the seams with energy as musicians from 10 different cultures came togeth-

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER

er to play music, with the dhol (a double headed drum used in northern Indian music) sweeping everyone off their feet and setting the room on fire.

As I looked out over the crowd, I couldn’t help but be in awe of how dance was being used as a common language, the rhythm creating community, and how the sounds of India aroused enormous joy amongst every-

one present. It was the same spirited energy the dancers would send pouring down Main Street during the parade in Waynesville on Saturday morning, leaving onlookers enamored with the colors spewing from the twirling skirts and lively rhythm.

As we walked out of the Hickory International Council after a recent performance, a young girl

shouted from aside her parent’s car, “Thank you for coming,” and continued to wave until the colorfully dressed dancers loaded onto the bus, the bells on their feet jingling with every step.

In that moment, I saw the world through the eyes of a child and felt this overwhelming sense of unadulterated admiration. We grow up being told to dream big, that the world is your oyster, and the sky is the limit. Then, somewhere along the way, we become realistic about our aspirations, about how to maintain stability, and also fulfill societal responsibilities.

Yet, here was this moment that perhaps inspired a child to go and see and learn about what exists outside the state of North Carolina, just for the sake of feeling it. Perhaps, she had her first taste of that indescribable feeling you get in your chest when you experience new forms of beauty, one you are in constant search of after you’ve been captivated by its power.

I’ve chased that feeling of wonder to South Africa, where I was introduced to the omnipresent giver of life that is Mama Africa and marveled at the click language of the Xhosa; to the island of Java, where I became entranced by the gamelan (a musical ensemble usually consisting of drums, xylophones, and gongs) and infatuated with Islamic mysticism; and to the countryside of Laos, where my soul was shaken awake by chanting Buddhist monks at sunrise.

It’s music and culture that have ultimately been my vehicle to that feeling of enchantment, to knowing what it means to be alive in the purest sense of the word. Now, here I am, transported to India via the enchantment bus for 12 days straight.

It delights me to hear the buzz of the audience following the end of my group’s performance, excited to have had a glimpse into a culture that seems worlds away without having to leave their backyard.

For me, being a guide for Folkmoot isn’t just about paying forward all the times friends of friends, or family of friends of friends, have welcomed me to their country and showered me with hospitality. It’s about wanting others to value and embrace diversity as much as I do and to be inspired to tap into those moments that make them feel alive.

Parade of Nations

Each year, one of the highlights of the 10-day Folkmoot Festival is the Parade of Nations. This year, 10 groups from across the globe walked down Waynesville’s Main Street, stopping at the Historic Haywood County Courthouse to perform for local dignitaries.

Clockwise, from left: The venerable J. Creek Cloggers begin stomping their way down Main Street; a flag-bearer from Taiwan twirls her flag; dancers from Israel entice a reluctant girl to join their circle; the Indian group Utkarsh Dance Academy approaches the courthouse steps; Slovenian group Koleda practices in the bed of a pickup truck just before the parade.

Cory Vaillancourt photos

Cherokee man receives N.C.’s highest honor

BY HOLLY KAYS STAFFWRITER

A life of service to country, culture and global community has earned Jerry Wolfe the state of North Carolina’s highest award, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Wolfe received the award in a surprise ceremony accompanying the July 25 Folkmoot USA performance at Cherokee Central High School.

Wolfe’s community in Cherokee has already recognized him for the life he’s lived and the work he’s done to keep Cherokee culture alive, in 2013 naming him Beloved Man — the first time anyone had worn the title since the 1800s. But Wolfe sees the title as a responsibility more than an accolade to put up on a shelf.

“A Beloved Man is a man who looks after the community — wherever he’s needed, he should be there,” Wolfe said in a 2015 interview with The Smoky Mountain News.

Throughout his life, Wolfe has been a man who is committed to being where he’s needed. The U.S. entered World War II in 1941, and when Wolfe turned 18 two years later he lost no time in joining the Navy, where he served for six years — including aboard one of the ships that sailed for Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944, in the now-famous D-Day Normandy invasion.

Wolfe returned to Cherokee in 1949, where he married his wife Juanita and started a family that would eventually include seven children.

He learned stone-masonry to support them and taught the trade with the federal Job Corps Program for 20 years.

Jerry Wolfe

Now retired and in his 90s, Wolfe makes it his mission to pass along the Cherokee language and culture that formed his early years. A fluent Cherokee speaker, his is a storyteller at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and present at many of the tribe’s cultural events. He’s also a Christian and has traveled the world to participate in building projects with missions teams to developing countries.

Wolfe has received multiple honors and recognitions over the years for his cultural contributions, winning the North Carolina Folk Heritage Award in 2003 and the Brown-Hudson Folklore Award from the N.C. Folklore Society in 2010.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine was created in 1963 to honor people with a proven record of service to the State of North Carolina and their communities. Past recipients include Andy Griffith, Billy Graham, Maya Angelou, Earl Scruggs, Kenny Rogers, Oprah Winfrey and many more. The award is given by the governor of North Carolina.

Come on in &

‘We want the peace’

Israeli group director preaches harmony through dance

BY CORY VAILLANCOURT STAFF WRITER

Home to some of the most important and sacred Judeo-Christian sites in the world, what should be a place of peace has instead seen almost ceaseless conflict since its incorporation in 1948.

The nation of Israel is a study in contrasts, and the same goes for the founder of the Israeli dance group Ayalot Ha’Negev –Motti Alkis, a man who went to war to heal and as a result can no longer walk, but still teaches dance.

“I was a medic,” Alkis said – a medic, a healer, in the midst of 1973’s bloody Arab-Israeli war.

the past three years, Alkis has been confined to a motorized wheelchair, but that hasn’t stopped him from helping the group continue to spread its message of peace through dance.

“It’s is a miracle that he is even here with us today,” said one of Alkis’ dancers, Eden. “He is a very religious person, very strong faith and it is a miracle.”

Lucky to even be alive, the enigmatic Alkis commands his performers with an authoritative style of communication that transcends the physical.

“I walk with my heart, I walk with my spirit,” said Alkis.

“We have a common language,” Eden

look around...

You just might find what you weren’t looking for!

That conflict found Israel surprised by an attack — on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year — from a coalition consisting of Algeria, Cuba, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and Syria.

Outnumbered almost two-to-one, Israel initially saw startling territorial losses, but rebounded by the end of the 19-day conflict to inflict almost 60,000 casualties on the coalition, while suffering just 10,000 of its own.

Alkis spent his time in the Israeli armed forces helping the sick and wounded, until he became one of them himself.

“I maybe drink something not so good,” he said in broken English. “Or maybe it was the blood.”

Alkis unknowingly contracted hepatitis somehow, perhaps by treating a wound or coming into contact with bodily fluids while out in the desert.

A few years later, Alkis — a dancer himself — began to notice he couldn’t execute some of his moves as smoothly as he could previously. It was then he learned that he had muscular dystrophy, possibly as a result of his treatment for the hepatitis he picked up during the war.

At that time, right around 1980, Alkis founded Ayalot Ha’Negev, the Dance Company of the State of Israel. Over the intervening years, the troupe has performed in 65 countries across the world, even as his condition began to deteriorate.

“I teach all that time,” he said. “I fight [the disease] all the time.”

The illness steadily progressed, and for

said. “We understand him even though he can’t show us, it’s like a language how he can teach us.”

The significance of what Alayot Ha’ Negev does isn’t lost on Alkis’ young dancers.

“It’s very important,” said another dancer, Stav. “In this festival we have the opportunity to show people to think different things about us. There are a lot of stereotypes and then we came with very long smiles and very much happiness.”

The travails of the beleaguered Jewish people are well-known and far-reaching, as are the ugly stereotypes associated with them; perhaps the only thing that has kept the world’s Jewish community from utter extinction at the hands of its enemies throughout the centuries is its cohesiveness.

“In their dance, they try to show togetherness,” said Izzy Hendershot, one of the group’s local guides. “Even their costumes are very light and happy.”

One need only witness a small part of Alayot Ha’ Negev’s performance to see joyous dancers join hands in one big circle, undulating to and fro with lively shouts and arms raised in celebration to the sky.

“We bring the peace, we want to bring the peace,” Eden said. “Our religion is searching for peace. We don’t want fights.”

“Peace,” said Alkis. “Only peace.”

Sixth time’s the charm

Folkmoot comes full circle, enters new era

BY GARRET K. WOODWARD STAFF WRITER

I kept glancing over at the signs.

Strolling the long and busy corridors of the Folkmoot Friendship Center (Waynesville) this past Sunday evening, I couldn’t help looking at the signs posted on the walls next to the doors. “Argentina.” “Israel.” “Russia.” “India.” “Taiwan.” All of these foreign countries, these ambassadors from every corner of the world, each with their own set of social and economic issues, many mirroring our own.

Whereas some of these countries may even have cultural differences between each other, there they all were, in dorm rooms right next to each other, sharing bathrooms, sharing dance moves and instrumental techniques, maybe even a laugh, as the 34th edition of this beloved and vital Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival rolls on through Western North Carolina.

For me, personally, Folkmoot is my anniversary of arriving in Waynesville, where my job interview assignment for The Smoky Mountain News was to track down two stories on the festival, submit them over the weekend, and hopefully be offered the gig come Monday. That was exactly five years ago this past weekend, with this Folkmoot being my sixth as a journalist covering it.

Center on Sept. 11, 2001. Suddenly, it was “us versus them,” with “them” being whatever or whoever it was we were told to be weary of as the colors of fear fluctuated daily between red, orange and yellow.

By the time I found myself in Haywood County in 2012, Folkmoot was, by all accounts, kind of fading into the background of Western North Carolina’s priorities and cultural attractions. Sure, the groups — like clockwork — arrived every year, and were greeted with smiles of pure love and appreciation by locals and visitors alike.

But, it seemed — at that time — the event as a whole was running on fumes. A lot of familiar faces keeping Folkmoot going all those years either had moved on into other endeavors, or simply were ready to hand off the heavy reigns of responsibility.

As an arts and entertainment editor, I’ve found myself constantly trying to encourage people to not lose sight of what Folkmoot means — economically, socially, and spiritu-

That first Folkmoot I attended in 2012 was also a presidential election year. As heated of a political race it was between Obama and Romney, one could never imagine the turmoil that the 2016 campaign would bring. A lot has changed in the last five years, but one thing has remained the same, and for just and important reasons — the underlying mission of Folkmoot.

When the festival was created in the early 1980s, Folkmoot was championed as an olive branch between the United States and the world (but mainly aimed towards the Soviet Union — aka Russia) as the once red-hot Cold War was beginning to thaw, the 1990s and eventual fall of the Berlin Wall visible on the horizon.

And as Folkmoot grew through the 1990s, so did the optimism on the world’s stage, where relations between completely different ideologies and political spheres were beginning to find common ground, some even shaking hands after decades (and centuries) of shaking angry fists towards the heavens of an unforgiving god.

But, those several years of positive ground became instantaneously unstable and easily forgotten once those two airplanes slammed into the World Trade

You’re in the driver’s seat

ally. Those links are not only important for Western North Carolina, but also for international groups who take home with them the compassion and honest connection with their American and Southern Appalachian counterparts. And, in recent years, Folkmoot has not only regained its footing, but also its purpose as a bastion of world culture, a beacon of hope in dark times.

Regardless of where you stand politically, I find the more one exposes themselves to things, perhaps, outside of their daily bubble that is their life, the more you begin to see and interact with the bigger picture — a chance to step outside of yourself, in hopes of, in all actuality, finding your true self.

This 34th edition of Folkmoot might prove to be the most crucial year in the long and bumpy history of not only the festival, but this planet and all its inhabitants. I think it also ushers in a new and exciting era for the event. This is truth, every single time I step into the Folkmoot Friendship Center, I see the beauty that emerges when faces and voices and thought processes from all over the world are placed in one building, having dinner together, watching each other perform, and, at the end of the event, heading back home as part of a global family that stretches back over three decades, all originating right here in our own backyard.

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

We

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52 Walnut Street, Suite 6

Waynesville, NC 28786

Office: (828) 456-7407

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‘Gemboree’ returns to Franklin

The 52nd “Gemboree” will be held July 27-30 at the Robert C. Carpenter Community Building in Franklin.

Rough and cut Gems, minerals, fine jewelry, supplies, beads, door prizes, dealers, exhibits, demonstrations, and more. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, contact the Franklin Chamber at 828.524.3161. Sponsored by the Franklin Chamber of Commerce and the Gem & Mineral Society of Franklin. www.franklin-chamber.com.

Mad Anthony’s ‘Grand Reopening’

Mad Anthony’s Taproom & Restaurant will have a “Grand Reopening” from noon to 2 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at 180 Legion Drive in Waynesville (behind Bogart’s).

The 4,000-square-foot building features 50 taps and a large lounging area. The small plate kitchen is expected to be opened by early August.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will be onhand and co-hosting the July 29 event, with special selections available for tasting and purchase. Music will be provided by Tonology (rock/acoustic) at 9 p.m. www.madanthonys.bar.

Franklin barbecue festival

The 9th annual Mountain High BBQ Festival & Car Show will be Aug. 11-12 at the Wayne Proffitt Agricultural Center in Franklin.

KCBS Sanctioned BBQ Cook-off for Backyard and Professional teams. Barbecue vendors will be on the premises to sell great tasting barbecue. Food vendors, crafters, cooking demonstrations and a car show will round out the exciting features of the festival. For more information and full schedule of events, visit www.mountainhighbbqfestival.com or call 828.524.3161.

Sarge’s ‘Dog Walk’

The 12th annual Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation “Dog Walk” will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville.

The fundraiser, supporting the homeless dogs and cats of Haywood County, is a muchloved community event, bringing hundreds of dogs and their families to walk on Waynesville’s Main Street. The 9 a.m. start time is one hour earlier than past years to beat the heat for the safety of the dogs and their humans. Registration begins at 8 a.m.

The Downtown Dog Walk is one of Sarge’s biggest fundraisers of the year. The scene is a wonderful blend of tail wagging and smiles, as dogs and their humans congregate on the courthouse lawn before the walk.

“This event is not only a fun time for all — it gives the community an opportunity to be a part of helping with the medical costs, supplies, food, boarding, fostering and transporting animals to find their forever homes,” said Felisha Yon, co-chairman of the event.

The Sarge’s Downtown Dog Walk begins and ends at the Haywood County Courthouse on Main Street in Waynesville. Following dog walk, there will be contests, including best-dressed dog, best dog trick and best tail-wagging dog.

Registration forms will be available soon at www.sargeanimals.org. There is a $15 fee for each dog walking in the event. This fee includes a dog walk goody bag and dog bandana.

Registration forms also include a Partner’s Pledge Form to allow walkers to

gather donations from friends and family. There will be prizes for people collecting the most money with their teams on the Partner Pledge form. Anyone who collects at least $20 in donations will receive a free official Sarge’s Dog Walk T-shirt.

The official 2017 Downtown Dog Walk Tshirt will be available for $15 for adults and $10 for children. The T-shirts will also be on sale at pre-registration and at the dog walk.

“If you can’t join in that day, you can still help,” Yon said. “Sign up to be a virtual walker. Sponsor a Sarge’s foster dog for $15 and a volunteer will walk a foster dog for you. What a treat for a foster dog to be able to join the fun.”

For information on Sarge’s work to save dogs and cats in Haywood County, visit www.sargeanimals.org, “Like” on Sarge’s Facebook page or call 828.246.9050.

On the street

As part of the Native Voices exhibit at the Jackson County Public Library, Vickie Bradley will be giving a talk at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 27, in Sylva. The discussion will mark the end of the exhibit.

Bradley is the Secretary of Public Health and Human Services for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. She will talk about the current state and future of Cherokee health.

The Native Voices traveling exhibition, produced by the National Library of Medicine, explores the connection between wellness, illness, and cultural life through a combination of interviews with Native people, artwork, objects, and interactive media. The exhibit has been open to the public since June 23 and has been viewed by several hundred people so far.

The National Library of Medicine has a history of working with Native communities as part of the library’s commitment to make health information resources accessible to people no matter where they live or work. The Native Voices exhibition concept grew out of meetings with Native leaders in Alaska, Hawaii and the lower 48 states. This program is free and open to the public. The event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Jackson County Public Library.

For more information, call the library at 828.586.2016 or visit www.fontanalib.org.

ALSO: Native Voices discussion series to conclude

• Sneak E Squirrel Brewing (Sylva) will host the Jackson County Corn Hole Association on Monday evenings ($5 buy in, 100-percent payout), Karaoke with Captain Moose from 7 to 11 p.m. on Tuesdays, Trivia at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and a Guitar Hero Tournament at 7 p.m. on Thursdays. 828.586.6440.

• “The Wizard of Oz” train will depart at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. July 28-30 at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad depot in Bryson City. For tickets, visit www.gsmr.com.

• There will be a free wine tasting from 1 to 5 p.m. July 29 and Aug. 5 at Bosu’s Wine Shop in Waynesville. www.waynesvillewine.com or 828.452.0120.

• A free wine tasting will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. July 29 and Aug. 5 at Papou’s Wine Shop in Sylva. www.papouswineshop.com or 828.631.3075.

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

On the wall

Silent film with live music

The silent film series “A Trip to the Moon and Beyond: The Fantastical Science Fiction Silent Films of George Melies” will be screened with live music at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 2, at the Macon County Public Library in Franklin. Each short film will be presented with a live soundtrack featuring musicians Tyler Kittle of Sylva and Asheville-based Michael Libramento (former bassist of Grace Potter). Free and open to the public.

828.524.3600.

Marianna rock painting

There will be a rock painting workshop at 5:30 p.m. July 31 at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City.

A sensation that has taken the nation by storm has made its way to Western North Carolina. As you walk through the streets of Bryson City, you may notice some new decorations lining the town — some special paintings tucked away in surprise places. Children, teenagers, and adults have taken to rock painting and the hiding of these rocks. The library will provide all of the necessary materials needed for this event; however, feel free to bring your own brushes, paints, or that “special” rock you’ve been waiting to paint. For more information, contact the Marianna Black Library at 828.488.3030.

Jackson County pastel painting

The “Creating Art at the Homestead” art workshop will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, in the Tuckasegee Valley.

Metal work at the Green Energy Park

A “Beginning Bladesmithing Class” with Brock Martin of WarFire Forge will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 29-30 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Participants will begin by making a simple butter knife from mild steel in order to learn the processes involved in shaping a knife. Students will then progress to making a blade from a higher-carbon railroad spike or spring steel. They will cover grain properties, annealing, heat treating of knives, and use differential hardening to temper blades. No prior experience required. Cost is $225, materials included.

An “Armor Construction: Spaulders

Facilitated by artist Doreyl Ammons Cain, you will learn the basics of composition, perspective, color theory and painting spontaneously at this outside painting art workshop. The location is in the Tuckasegee Valley on a farm homestead with a river view, mountains all around, a waterfall and structures from the early days of settling the mountains. Directions to the location will be supplied to those who reserve their workshop space. Beginners, those who would like to try their hand at painting with pastels and experienced artists are welcome. All materials are furnished, along with a healthy snack. Contact Doreyl Ammons Cain for reservations at 828.293.2239 or on Facebook. Contact soon as there is a limit of 10 students.

Class” with Brock Martin will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 5-6 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Students will learn dishing vs. raising techniques as they are introduced to the fundamental shaping of armor. Fluting and planishing will be explained as well. Basic tools necessary for armor work will be provided and discussed for those interested in pursuing the craft beyond the course. Leather work, riveting, and various accents will be shown and practiced. Students will produce a complete pair of spaulders, wearable to their person. No prior experience required. Cost is $265, materials included. Students must wear closed toe shoes (preferably leather), long pants, and cotton clothing, and should bring a lunch. 828.631.0271 or visit www.jcgep.org.

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On the wall

Franklin Eclipse art showcase

The Franklin Uptown Gallery is calling everyone in the community to show off their creative side for the upcoming “Eclipse Celebration,” which will be Aug. 21. Community members, 16 years and older, can exhibit a Space Art/Eclipse themed work of art during the Uptown Gallery/Macon County Arts Association August show which runs from Aug. 1-31.

The gallery will provide a stretched canvas 11x14” or 12x12”. Drawing, painting, mixed media and collage will be accepted until July 29. Entry must be an original work by the artist, be available for sale, gallery side wrapped (finished or painted) and back wired for hanging. Pick up your canvas and entry form at the Uptown Gallery, 30 East Main Street in Franklin. Membership in the Macon County Art Association is not required and the “best in show” of the entries will receive a partner membership. For more information, contact Bonnie Abbott at the Gallery on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 828.349.4607, all other times at blrabbott@yahoo.com or 828.743.0200.

Deadline extended for HCC exhibit

Deadline to participate in Haywood County Arts Council’s juried show of Haywood County alumni from Haywood Community College’s Professional Crafts programs has been extended to Friday, July 28. This special exhibition celebrates the joint 40th Anniversary of the Professional Crafts program at Haywood Community College and the Haywood County Arts Council. The exhibit will be on display Sept. 1 through Oct. 30. Applicants must have attended the Professional Crafts program, currently reside in Haywood County and submit work completed in the last two years. To apply, download the application from www.haywood.edu and email five to seven high quality images to clschulte@haywood.edu by Friday, July 28. Selected work will be delivered to the Haywood County Arts Council Aug. 29. 828.565.4240 or www.haywood.edu.

‘Wire Art Jewelry Class’

Local artist and crafter Lawrie Williams will be offering her “Wire Art Jewelry Class” from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Friday, July 28, at the Jackson County Extension Office in Sylva. Williams is a skilled jewelry maker and featured artist at Southwestern Community College and will be teaching the charming Tree of Life Pendant project at this class. The cost is only $10 and you'll need to bring your jewelry pliers if you have them, otherwise all materials will be supplied.

To registers, call the Sylva Extension Office at 828.586.4009.

On the stage On the wall

‘Click & Sip Workshop’

The “Click & Sip Workshop” will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, July 28, at Gallery Zella in Bryson City. Enjoy mastering photography techniques used by professionals. Attend with a buddy, daughter, son or even your sweetheart. Take home an incredible memory of your trip to the mountains — your own original fine art photograph. Students will be presented with various techniques to improve photo composition and how to properly use light to create superior photos. Cost is $50, which includes 8x12 metal print. 828.488.3638 or www.galleryzella.com.

Mortgage agreement goes up in flames

Forty-one years have gone into making Dogwood Crafters Cooperative of Dillsboro the successful business it is today. And the co-op will set fire to their mortgage agreement from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the 11-room shop.

With this completion, Dogwood Crafter’s Cooperative demonstrates its time-honored willingness to cooperate with one another, to make a plan and stick to it, and to do what it takes to accomplish a dream.

A second reason to celebrate is to introduce to the public an addition to the landscaping. Mary Nolan was a member of Dogwood for almost 38 years, and with her passing, the cooperative wanted to commemorate her involvement with Dogwood by creating “Mary’s Garden.” The garden is located just to the left of the building.

The cooperative certainly had a great deal of help in accomplishing their goals and during the celebration those people will be recognized. There will also be the well-known hot dogs by John Faulk and Dogwood’s famous homemade cookies.

For more information, call 828.506.8331.

• The “Meet the Artist” reception with Brian Hannum (pianist), Drew Campbell (photographer) and Jon Houglum (painter) will be from 3 to 7 p.m. July 28, at Gallery Zella in Bryson City. 828.488.3638 or www.galleryzella.com.

• The Haywood County Arts Council “Members Show” will run through July 29 at Gallery & Gifts in downtown Waynesville. The showcase will feature an array of local artisans and art mediums. Free and open to the public. 828.452.0593 or www.haywoodarts.org.

• Experienced crafter and Extension and Community Association (ECA) member Ernie

Plemmons will offer beginning crochet classes from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Jackson County Extension Center in Sylva. The cost of the class is $10 and space is limited. Please call the office at 828.586.4009 to register and for supply list.

ALSO:

• Acclaimed Bryson City painter Elizabeth Ellison’s newest exhibit, “Spirit of Place,” will run through Sept. 4 at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville. Exhibit support is provided by The North Carolina Arboretum Society and Smoky Mountain Living magazine. www.smliv.com.

• “Paint Nite Waynesville” will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays (Aug. 3 and 17) at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville. Sign up for either event on the Paint Night Waynesville Facebook page (search event: Brush N. Brew) or call Robin Smathers at 828.400.9560. paintnitewaynesville@gmail.com.

• There will be a “Thursday Painters Open Studio” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. at the Franklin Uptown Gallery. Bring a bag lunch, project and supplies. Free to the public. Membership not required. For information, call 828.349.4607.

• A “Youth Art Class” will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon every Saturday at the Appalachian Art Farm on 22 Morris Street in Sylva. All ages welcome. $10 includes instruction, materials and snack. For more information, email appalachianartfarm@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.

• “Movies on Everett” will screen the film “Raiders of the Lost Ark” at 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 28, at the Caboose in downtown Bryson City. Free and open to the public. www.greatsmokies.com.

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ continues at HART

The beloved production of “Fiddler on the Roof” will hit the stage through July 30 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

The production will feature a cast of 30 with a live orchestra, elaborate backdrops, and a big bash on opening night in the theater’s lobby. HART last produced “Fiddler on the Roof” in 1990 at The Strand Theater in downtown Waynesville.

Fast forward 28 years and the new production is being directed by Lloyd with a cast that includes: Jeffrey Streitfeld, Lyn Donley, Martine Jacobs, Kelsey Sewell, Sydney Lyles, Reagan Mulvey, Chelcy Frost, Ryan Albinus, Adam Lentini, Charlie Cannon, Strother Stingley, Susan Rudniak, Tabitha Judy, Fleming Bell, Madison Sugg, Randy Robins, George Heard, Zada Hooten, David Yeates, Dylan Renken, Tom Dewees, Lucretia Bell, Ashlyn Clark, Bonnie DeMarco, Sierra Earl, Noelle Frost, Maria Frost, Drake Frost, Melody Goldberg, Turner Henline, Jordan Hollifield, Tammie Crawford Schwab and Madison Turner.

“Fiddler on the Roof” is based on Tevye and his Daughters (or Tevye the Dairyman) and other tales by Sholem Aleichem. The story centers on Tevye, the

father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his Jewish religious and cultural traditions as outside influences encroach upon the family's lives. He must cope both with the strong-willed actions of his three older daughters, who wish to marry for love — each one's choice of a husband moves further away from the customs of his faith — and with the edict of the Tsar that evicts the Jews from their village. HART’s production will have performances at 7:30 p.m. July 27-29, and at 2 p.m. July 30. Patrons may also make reservations to dine at Harmons’ Den Bistro located in the HART Theater complex, which offers dinner seating beginning at 5:45 p.m. and Sunday Brunch at 12:30 p.m. The bistro’s menu can be viewed on the HART website. Patrons can make reservations online at www.harttheatre.org or by calling the HART Box Office at 828.456.6322 from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Unto These Hills outdoor drama

The Unto These Hills stage production will be held at 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday through Aug. 19 at the Mountainside Theater in Cherokee.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.cherokeehistorical.org.

Clearing the desk: Part II

In my last review, I mentioned the need to reduce a pile of books I’d read, all of them, new and old, worthy of some sort of recognition. I started digging into that pile with high hopes of knocking off three or four books, but ended by only reviewing two: Piers Paul Read’s The Death of a Pope and Alice Thomas Ellis’s The Inn at the Edge of the World. (Hmmm… thought-provoking names. Long ago, I read an article on our propensity to refer to assassins by their full names: John Wilkes Booth, Lee Harvey Oswald, James Earl Ray, Mark David Chapman. I could speculate as to the meaning of this phenomenon among writers, but you see, right there’s the problem: I distract myself, popping down this trail and then that one, the White Rabbit gone amuck, and before you know it, I am back to an undiminished hillock of literature.)

So here goes. No meandering, no drifting, no diversions.

First up for examination is Churchill’s Triumph: A Novel of Betrayal (Sourcebooks Landmark, 2008, 342 pages). Author Michael Dobbs gives us Yalta in February 1945, when three men change the borders of Europe and determine the course of history: the cunning Joseph Stalin; the ailing Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who would be dead in two months (again, the three names, but I am looking straight ahead); and Winston Churchill, who finds himself bypassed in some of the negotiations, stifled in particular by Roosevelt’s idealism and ill health. Dobbs has written other novels centered on Churchill and once again brings him to life in this sad tale of negotiations that led to 45 years of division in Europe and the betrayal in particular of Poland, the country the English had originally sought to defend against the Nazi invasion.

Author to discuss publishing process

Shelby Foote: A Writer’s Life (University Press of Mississippi, 2003, 317 pages) gives us a commendable profile of the man who wrote the massive The Civil War: A Narrative and who became a cultural icon—the prototype of a Southern gentleman—by his appearances in the Ken Burns’ PBS series on the Civil War. Written and published before Foote’s death in 2005, Shelby Foote: A Writer’s Life paints a fine picture of this novelist and historian from his earliest years in the Mississippi Delta to his struggles as a writer and the fame derived from his Civil War trilogy, blending Foote’s story with some fine literary analysis of his work. Author C. Stuart Chapman (almost, but

not quite, three names) is particularly good in his descriptions of Foote’s long friendship with fellow Mississippian Walker Percy, author of such novels as The Moviegoer and The Second Coming In Boomsday (Hatchette Book Group, 2007, 319 pages), Christopher Buckley escorts readers on a wild romp through the corridors of Washington D. C., taking aim along the way at politicians, televangelists, the Roman Catholic church, the F.B.I., our system of entitlements, and half-a-dozen other targets. Boomsday centers its sights on Cassandra Devine, a bright young woman whose father steals her tuition money for Yale to bolster his dotcom company. Estranged from him and seeking another way to pay for college, Cassandra joins the Army and winds up in Bosnia, where a visiting Congressman insists on taking the wheel of their Humvee and promptly drives them into a minefield. Both Cassandra and the narcissistic Congressman survive — he loses a leg — and the incident cements a relationship that will bring Cassandra to D.C.

Eventually, Cass finds herself working for a “damage repair” public relations firm, where she quickly rises to the top. In her free time, she starts up a blog attacking the massive government entitlements given to the elderly, arguing (rightly in my book, despite my age)

Journal of Books. She is currently working on her fourth novel.

To reserve copies of her books, call City Lights Bookstore at 828.586.9499.

Kentucky author Kim Michele Richardson will hold a discussion on the path to publication at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Richardson is the author of two novels, Liar’s Bench and Godpretty in the Tobacco Field. She also has a new novel coming out in late November titled, The Sisters of Glass Ferry. She will discuss best practices in the publishing process and take questions.

Richardson has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, building houses, and is an advocate for the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence, partnering with the U.S. Navy globally to bring awareness and education to the prevention of domestic violence. She is a contributor to the Huffington Post and writes for the New York

Auffhammer poetry reading

Poet Tyler Auffhammer will read from his new collection of poetry, Threshold, at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at the City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Auffhammer is a Western Carolina University graduate and 20152016 Gilbert-Chappell Distinguished Student Poet. His collection explores the relationships between people, the relationships between humanity and the natural world, and tries to identify the messages we can learn from all of this.

To reserve copies of Threshold, call City Lights Bookstore at 828.586.9499.

that Social Security and Medicare have become an impossible burden on the young people paying for those programs. Her anger explodes across the Internet—millennials take to attacking retirement communities and golf courses in Florida—and Cass soon finds herself a major celebrity standing at the center of this maelstrom. When she advocates that the government offer incentives to retirees to kill themselves and relieve the young of their tax burdens—what the politicos call “voluntary transitioning”—all hell breaks lose.

Given our capitol’s politics of the last twenty years of so, Boomsday should appeal to readers fed up with the machinations of politicians and their associates, offering as it does a satirical look at how those in power take up an issue, use it to their own advantage, and find a solution that ends by accomplishing either little or nothing.

Finally, there is The Benedict Option: A Strategy for Christians in a Post-Christian Nation (Sentinel, 2017, 262 pages). By the “Benedict Option,” Rod Dreher, author of Crunchy Cons and How Dante Can Save Your Life, references Saint Benedict, the sixth century founder of Western monasticism. In essence, the Benedict option for Christians means embracing exile from mainstream culture and constructing a resilient counterculture. Dreher decries our modern culture and its slide into decadence, and encourages believers to withdraw from the world, not into monasteries but into family and community, and so establish an alternate culture.

Or does he?

Dreher’s book has roused much controversy among all sorts of commentators: liberal and conservative, Christian and nonChristian. This hullabaloo has risen in part because of misinterpretation. More complex than is first apparent, the ideas contained in The Benedict Option deserve consideration not just by Christians, but by a wider audience.

More on The Benedict Option next time.

New mystery novel

Award-winning author Lawrence Thackston will present his new mystery-thriller at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 4, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Set in the South Carolina Lowcountry, Carolina Cruel is a Southern tale of race, politics, crime, and corruption in which two reporters will make startling connections between an executed mass murderer, the fallout from the 1968 Orangeburg Massacre and the hanging of one of the state’s most prominent citizens. And in their search for answers, they will discover a cruelty so devastating; it will change countless lives forever.

Thackston, author of Tidal Pools, and The Devil’s Courthouse, once again, brings his unique brand of page-turning suspense to the world of crime fiction.

To reserve copies, call 828.586.9499.

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Fatal ATTRACTION

Herculean rescue effort at Yellowstone Falls highlights dangers of waterfall play

Outdoors

he 911 call, coming from a gorge cut high in the Balsam Mountains, was nearly unintelligible. When the connection ended five minutes later, Haywood County Emergency Management was left with two important facts: somebody had fallen from a waterfall, and the caller was saying something that sounded like “Yellowstone.”

The GPS coordinates showed the call originating in Dark Prong, two drainages over from Yellowstone Falls in the Pisgah National Forest’s Shining Rock Wilderness, but GPS data isn’t always correct in the rugged terrain of Western North Carolina. In the mountains, cell reception is often scant at best — emergency responders had to make a judgment call.

“We decided to go with Yellowstone, the word ‘Yellowstone,’ and sure enough that’s where they were,” said Haywood County Emergency Management Director Greg

The call came in around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 12, with rescue crews reaching the patient about an hour later. It would take four exhausting hours more to transport

Yellowstone Falls, located between Skinny Dip Falls and the Lower Falls at Graveyard Fields, isn’t accessible by any official trail, and

“It turns into a gorge from Lower Falls to Skinny Dip Falls,” said Joseph Massie, one of the 45 rescuers. “A lot of people don’t realize that. But it is dang near impossible to get down in there and even more difficult to get someone out.”

There’s a 300-foot drop in elevation from the bottom of the falls to the top of the ravine where the Mountains-to-Sea Trail passes by on the north side, and on the south side there’s no way out at all — especially for someone who’s no longer able to move. But with rainstorms coming through the area, a helicopter rescue was off the table. It would have to be a ground rescue.

The patient, a man in his 50s whose name has not been released, had come to the falls with a few friends to climb around and enjoy the day. There’s a ledge that pops out about halfway up the 80-foot falls, which is where the man was climbing when he fell 40 feet to the rocky base. Miraculously, he survived the fall, but when he landed he couldn’t move. About five people saw it happen, immediately attempting a 911 call with the negligible signal making its way into the gorge.

Four rescue crews from three counties totaling 68 people were required to extract that single, immobile patient from the gorge. Of those, 13 were part of the command center parked at the Graveyard Fields Trailhead, with the remaining 45 split into four different rescue teams. The rescuers came from Haywood County Search and Rescue, the Cruso Fire Department, the Henderson County Rescue Squad and the Transylvania County Rescue Squad.

Team one, which included rope riggers

and paramedics, descended the gorge toward the patient, assessing his medical needs and then setting up a highline across the Yellowstone Prong, which eventually feeds into the Pigeon River. He’d landed on the south side of the river, but the only way out was to the north — rescuers hooked him up to the highline, rope rigged tight like a banjo string, to guarantee him a safe ride to the other side.

It’s a good thing they did, because just as the team had the patient ready for transport, the skinny stream of water coming over the falls transformed into a raging torrent, the result of an isolated rainstorm somewhere upstream — “an incident within an incident,” Shuping called it.

“The waterfall went from a clear, small waterfall to flooding a lot of the

river. Then team three jumped in to rig ropes to haul everyone up the 300-foot ravine, with team four carrying the patient a mile out to the Graveyard Fields Trailhead. There, an ambulance was waiting to attend to his needs, and an airlift from the Mountain Area Medical Airlift soon arrived to whisk him to Mission Hospital in Asheville.

“This was a Super Bowl of rescues,” Shuping said. “For the wilderness setting, this was that hopefully once-in-adecade type incident. But you know, we keep saying that, then they happen again.”

(the falls) prior to that,” Massie said of the group at Yellowstone Falls. “If they had been on top when that flash flood happened, there could have been six of them dead.”

It wouldn’t have been the first time someone had died on a WNC waterfall. Since 1993, at least 41 people have died on waterfalls in the Pisgah-Nantahala National Forest, and in the same timeframe an additional 31 have died in water-related falls and drownings in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Of those, 15 occurred at or near a waterfall.

That’s just a small subset of the total number of search and rescue calls the park gets annually to help one of the more than 10 million people who visit the park each year. Usually, the team responds to about 100 calls per

Hikers explore Ramsey Cascades after completing the 4-mile trail to the falls.

sides of the area where we were working and had the patient,” Massie said. “We had to swiftly get him moved to safety. It was nuts.”

From where Shuping sat, that river surge was a different kind of terrifying. It was an unforeseen and harrowing hazard for his team, but there wasn’t much he could do from his post at the command center, more than a mile away. The situation was perplexing, too. The river’s headwaters are probably less than a quarter mile upstream — how was such a dramatic swell even possible?

“How could a river with that small of a watershed flash that quickly to a point to cause us to be concerned?” Shuping said. “Well, it did. We learned that the hard way. Thank goodness nobody suffered because of it. That could have been catastrophic. We could have lost rescuers. We could have lost victims.”

Thankfully, amazingly, that’s not what happened. Team one reached the patient, and team two arrived with backup equipment to get everyone across the

While Shuping said he couldn’t release the man’s name or the exact nature of his injuries, it’s safe to say the damage was substantial, and likely lasting. But without a skilled army of rescuers on the scene, the fall could have easily ended in death.

“The patient has injuries that they will not soon, if ever, overcome,” Shuping said. “But because of these rescuers, they’re alive — not only because of good luck or whatever. I know that we saved his life because there’s no other way this guy was coming out of that hole.”

A DANGEROUSTHRILL

Shuping’s department doesn’t get a whole lot of calls for waterfall rescues, mostly because Haywood County’s status as a headwaters county means that there are few places where the volumes of water are big enough to create an acute danger.

But, as demonstrated by the surge that nearly devastated the rescue at Yellowstone Falls, river flows can be fickle. Currents can be stronger than anticipated, flow volumes can change within seconds, and rocks that appear dry and sturdy can prove dangerously loose and slippery.

“They had been playing on top of

year, most of which involve a milder sort of trip or fall and are resolved in a couple of hours. Waterfall trails do seem to have a disproportionately high number calls, said park spokeswoman Dana Soehn, but that’s likely because there’s a disproportionately high number of people who want to hike them.

“A lot of times you might have more inexperienced hikers,” she said of these trails. “They’re heading out for a short hike to a waterfall, they don’t always have sturdy footwear on, so they’re more prone to a twist of the ankle.”

These inexperienced hikers might also be more likely to underestimate the power of a waterfall, or of the current surrounding it. Rocks at waterfalls are often slippery, with the pools below full of hidden logs and rocks and swirling undertows. Above the falls, what looks like a beautiful, easily wadable stream can prove deadly when a current surges stronger than expected or a solid-looking stone turns out to be slick with moss. One slip, and you’re

WNC’s deadliest waterfalls

Whitewater Falls

It’s no wonder that 411-foot Upper Whitewater Falls attracts more than 75,000 visitors each year. The highest waterfall east of the Rockies, the upper falls in Jackson County is paired with a 400-foot lower falls across the state line in South Carolina.

“It’s a beautiful set of waterfalls,” said Jackson County Emergency Management Director Todd Dillard.

And, since 1993, at least 13 people have died attempting to climb it. Fortunately, it has been quite a few years since the last fatality there.

“They just think, ‘It won’t happen to me,’” Dillard said. “Unfortunately some of them’s wrong, and it happens to them.”

Horsepasture River

Taylor Terrell was just a day away from turning 25 when she lost her footing wading above Rainbow Falls last year, with the swift current carrying her to a 160-foot fall that ended in her death.

Hers was the sixth death to occur since 1993 on three popular falls in the Horsepasture River. Rainbow, Drift and Turtleback Falls are all in the Pisgah National Forest and accessed through Gorges State Park in Jackson County.

“Unfortunately some people have to get on the face of these waterfalls and think they can walk across the top and get in the moving water, which is more swift than what they think it is, and it sweeps them over the edge,” said Jackson County Emergency Management Director Todd Dillard.

Ramsey Cascades and Abrams Falls

Michal Bojko, 37, fell 80 feet to his death while attempting to climb across the top of Ramsey Cascades in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Sunday, May 28. Park rangers responded immediately, but there was nothing they could do.

Bojko’s death brought the number of fatalities at Ramsey Cascades to five since the park’s founding. However, when Bojko died it had been 40 years to the day since the last death, that of Bryan Zugelder in 1977. Park spokeswoman Dana Soehn postulates that a warning sign posted at some point after Zugelder’s death could have something to do with the lapse.

There’s a similar sign at Abrams Falls over near Cades Cove, which is tied with Ramsey Cascades for the title of the park’s deadliest waterfall. However, the five deaths at Abrams Falls have all been somewhat recent, occurring in 1997, 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2016.

Bookstore

Get supplied for back-to-school

It will be Christmas in July from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 29, at the Jackson County Farmers Market at Bridge Park in Sylva.

The event will give school-aged youth a chance to collect school supplies for the upcoming year from local businesses and organizations attending the market, with the goal of establishing an annual beforeschool event. Backwoods Bakery will have a pizza truck at the event, with half the proceeds going to a local nonprofit and the other half to the farmers market.

Free. www.jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

Haywood gets a honey extractor

The number of Haywood County beekeepers is on the rise, and a new honey extraction facility is now available for those beekeepers to use for free.

Haywood County Cooperative Extension and the Haywood County Beekeepers Association first floated the idea of creating such a facility in 2015, and a $16,550 TVA grant from Western N.C. Communities awarded to the Southwestern N.C. Resource Conservation and Development Council got the project going.

Located inside an old summer camp bathhouse at the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville, the facility includes a 20-frame radial motorized extractor and a chain comb-uncapping device. The extractor can hold enough honey frames to yield 50 pounds of honey.

“This facility has been so helpful to Haywood County and its beekeepers. Before, I had to set my equipment in my basement that wasn’t equipped for all that I was doing with my hives,” said beekeeper Tyree Kiser. “Haywood County beekeepers are very fortunate to have this wonderful facility.”

For the next year, all beekeepers will have free access to the facility. Afterward, there will be a fee for use with Haywood County Beekeeper Association members given a discount.

Bill Skelton, 828.456.3575. www.hcbees.org.

falling over the edge, crashing into the rocks below.

Since 2012, the volunteer Laurel Falls Rovers have been roaming the park’s Laurel Falls Trail to help prevent accidents before they happen — educating visitors on how to stay safe and carrying around some basic first-aid supplies to keep mild misfortunes from becoming real emergencies.

“That program itself has helped reduce the incidents we have on that 1.4-mile hike,” Soehn said.

In addition to volunteers, the park uses signs to drive the message home. At some point after the 1977 death of Bryan Zugelder at Ramsey Cascades, a sign reading “Warning. Closely control children. Four deaths here from falls. Please don’t be next,” was placed along the trail by the waterfalls. It seems to have worked. After Zugelder became the third person to die there in six years, there was a 40-year gap in deaths before 37-year-old Michal Bojko fell this May. A similar sign is posted at Abrams Falls, which has also been the site of five deaths.

“It’s not something that you see often throughout the park, but we certainly think it helped deter people from climbing the waterfalls,” Soehn said.

And that’s a good thing, because while climbing waterfalls is certainly dangerous for those who do it, it’s also dangerous for those who are called to rescue them when something goes wrong. That’s a calculation Shuping has to make every time a rescue call comes through 911.

“It takes a very dangerous operation for us to rescue people from around that area,” he said, referencing the Yellowstone Falls rescue. “We are extremely concerned about the safety of our people, let alone the victim. You are putting us in a situation that is not easy to become safe.”

In Haywood, as in most other counties in the area, the search and rescue responders who put their lives on the line are volunteers. The rescuers’ safety is of utmost importance, for all the obvious reasons and also to ensure there continues to be a pipeline of people willing to provide this volunteer service.

“They have to endanger their lives to get the people who are injured, and don’t get me wrong, we have beautiful waterfalls and we want people to see the waterfalls,” said Todd Dillard, emergency management director in Jackson County. “We just want you to be careful.”

“When people stay on the trail, that’s where they are the safest,” Soehn added. “All the incidents related to waterfalls (in the park) are where somebody got off the trail.”

BEAUTYDESERVINGRESPECT

Waterfalls may be dangerous, but their allure is undeniable.

“Waterfalls are exhilarating,” said Timothy Spira, Clemson University professor and author of Waterfalls and Wildflowers in the Southern Appalachians:

Be safe on waterfalls

n Stay on established trails and heed any posted warning signs.

n Never climb on or around waterfalls, as rocks can be slippery.

n Don’t play in the water above a waterfall. Currents can be extremely swift and capable of carrying a person over the edge.

n Never jump off waterfalls or dive into plunge pools, where rocks and logs can hide beneath the surface and currents can drag and hold a person underwater.

n Seeing someone else playing around a waterfall without getting hurt doesn’t mean you’ll be able to. Changing waterflows, shifting rocks and movement of underwater debris mean conditions can be different from place to place and second to second.

Thirty Great Hikes. “A lot of people talk about waterfalls as really a sort of pick-meup. It makes them feel good. It’s not altogether clear why that is, but it seems to be a pretty common reaction.”

They’re a magnet for couples, for photographers and for adventurers. Tourists flock to them. Picnickers seek them out. Waterfalls instill a sense of infinity — of constant change that’s somehow simultaneously unchanging. It’s mesmerizing to watch the play of light on water, and of water on rocks.

“There’s a feeling of excitement, but there’s also a sense of fear or danger, and I think some people are attracted to that as well,” Spira said.

Sometimes, that attraction results in risky behavior, and the sense of danger is no longer just a feeling. Western North Carolina’s deadliest waterfall, 411-foot Whitewater Falls in Jackson County, has seen 13 fatalities since 1993, with countless rescue operations on a long list of waterfalls engaged in that same timeframe.

Last year alone, Dillard’s department performed four rescues at Paradise Falls, a popular spot on Wolf Creek where multiple user-created trails split off from the official path to go all around — and even behind— the cascading waterfall. All four of those rescues involved some kind of traumatic injury, including one with a broken back and a patient who was unable to walk.

It’s unlikely that people will ever stop seeking out Western North Carolina’s waterfalls — Whitewater Falls alone draws more than 75,000 visitors annually — and that’s not a bad thing. WNC’s natural beauty is arguably its most valuable asset, supporting an ever-expanding tourism industry and making life in the mountains the dream of many.

But it’s not a fragile beauty. It’s a powerful beauty, and those seeking to experience it would do well to remember so.

“Waterfalls inherently aren’t dangerous,” Spira said. “It’s people who put themselves in a position of danger. That’s where the danger is — it’s with people putting themselves in the wrong place. If you hike to the falls and don’t cross the river above the falls or don’t clamber over rocks where you could fall, you’re going to be fine.”

Duke Energy work proposed in national forest

The Nantahala National Forest is reviewing a proposal from Duke Energy that would allow the company to upgrade its electrical distribution system located on national forest land in the Winding Stairs area of Macon County.

Under the proposal, Duke would install about 1,400 feet of new electrical distribution line underground near the bike path at Queens Creek, install about 3,000 feet of new electrical distribution line overhead along Winding Stairs Road, install about 2,700 feet of new electrical distribution line overhead between switchbacks on Forest Service Road 422, and develop two access roads — 1,700 feet and 700 feet in length — on old road beds.

The project would require boring and trenching to install underground lines, and vegetation would be cut to install overhead lines and access roads. Best management practices, such as native plant seeding and silt fences, would be used, and measures would be taken to protect the Indiana bat and northern long-eared bat.

Comments on the project are due by Aug. 6. Email comments to comments-southern-northcarolina-nantahala-nantahala@fs.fed.us or mail to Steverson Moffat, NEPA Planning Team Leader, Nantahala Ranger District, 123 Woodland Drive, Murphy, N.C. 28906.

Fontana algal bloom persists

An algal bloom observed in the Tuckasegee arm of Fontana Lake during late June continues to develop, prompting the N.C. Division of Water Resources to remind people to avoid contact with the filamentous bluegreen algae.

The bloom has been observed near the Bryson City 288 boat ramp and Fontana Dam but may be present in other areas. Laboratory analysis of water samples identified the species as Aphanizomenon and Anabaena, which may produce toxins and pose a health risk. State water quality specialists will continue to monitor conditions.

There have been no reports of adverse health effects in people due to the bloom, but officials recommend that people avoid contact with large accumulations of algae and prevent children and pets from swimming and ingesting water in the vicinity.

An algal bloom was also detected at Waterville Lake in Haywood County in late June. According to Bridget Munger of the Department of Environmental Quality, staff observed the site once more July 12 and saw that, while it was still blooming, the algae appeared to be somewhat diminished from the initial visit. The levels of algal toxin detected in the lake are associated with a low risk of adverse health effects.

For more information about algae, including safety tips, visit deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/waterresources/water-resources-data/water-sciences-home-page/ecosystems-branch/algal-blooms.

SAVANNAH SENIOR TRIP

The Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department will hold an organizational meeting for a senior trip to Savannah, Georgia. The organizational meeting will take place on August 2 at 6 pm at the Waynesville Recreation Center.

The trip will take place September 10 – 13 and will involve the Savannah history, ghost tours and environmental exploration. Anyone interested in the trip must attend the organizational meeting.

Serve the Smokies

Smokies supporters will have a chance to serve the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during a series of 10 Smokies Service Days, held 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays July 22 to Oct. 28.

At least five of the 10 days will take place in North Carolina, the first of which will be gardening at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center Saturday, Aug. 5. The schedule features unique opportunities to help care for park cemeteries, campgrounds, trails, roadsides, rivers and native plant gardens, with each work project followed by an optional enrichment adventure.

Service days in North Carolina include:

Enter the Paddle Grapple

Paddlers of all stripes will have a race to conquer during the Paddle Grapple at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, on Lake Fontana.

The day will include 3- and 6-mile race options, with classes for stand-up paddleboards, surfski, marathon, kayak and canoe entrants. Awards will go to the top finishers in each class.

$45, with registration online or day-of beginning at 8 a.m. The race will start at 10 a.m. with awards at 1 p.m. Dagger Kayaks has donated a Dagger Katana 10.4 to be raffled during the event. Proceeds benefit the Nantahala Racing Club.

Saturday, Aug. 12, on the Cheoah River and Saturday, Aug. 19, in the Valley River. Open to ages 6 and up, with a lifeguard on site. $5 per person or $10 for a family. Register online at www.mainspringconserves.org/be-a-mainspring/20-20-events-celebration or call 828.524.2711.

Kids fishing tournament to return

gardening at Oconaluftee, Aug. 5; campground cleanup at Smokemont Campground, Sept. 9; farm maintenance at Oconaluftee, Oct. 7; historic preservation and campground cleanup at Cataloochee Valley, Oct. 21; litter patrol and stream restoration at Deep Creek, Oct. 28.

Tools and safety gear provided; participants should bring water and wear longsleeve shirts, long pants and closed-toed shoes. Volunteers planning to stay for the afternoon activity should bring a bag lunch.

Sign up with Logan Boldon at least three days in advance. 865.436.1278 or logan_boldon@partner.nps.gov.

Give Panthertown a makeover

The trails at Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area will get some love during a volunteer workday starting from the Salt Rock trailhead at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1.

The group will hike about 3 miles to finish by 2 p.m., cleaning and clearing the trails as they go. Tools provided, with no experience necessary. Bring lunch, water and closed-toed shoes. Salt Rock Trailhead is located at the end of Breedlove Road near Cashiers. friends@panthertown.org or www.panthertown.org/volunteer.

Party with Smokey

Smokey Bear turns 73 this summer, and everyone is invited to celebrate during a birthday party 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Cradle of Forestry in America.

The day will begin with games, activities, prizes and an appearance by Smokey. Kids will get to see firefighting equipment, play Smokey bingo, write Smokey a birthday card, and participate in singing, storytelling

Earn a boating safety cert

and raffles — and, of course, eat cake. All kids will take home a party favor bag.

A live animal program will follow, presented by Carlton Burke.

$6 for ages 16 and older; $3 for youth 15 and under. America the Beautiful and Golden Age passports accepted.

The Cradle of Forestry is located along U.S. 276 in the Pisgah National Forest, about 35 miles south of Waynesville. www.cradleofforestry.com.

Register at paddleguru.com/races/PaddleGrapple2017.

Snorkel the summer away

A series of snorkeling adventures will reveal the world under the surface of Western North Carolina’s rivers, with the next event coming up 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 4, on the Tuckasegee River in Cullowhee.

Mainspring Conservation Trust is hosting the event, with wetsuits and snorkeling gear provided to aid the search for fish and underwater habitat with the help of aquatic biologist Jason Meador.

Similar snorkeling events will follow

The Talking Trees Children Trout Derby will return Aug. 4-5 in Cherokee, offering two full days of fun fishing in the Oconaluftee River. Registration will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Cherokee Fairgrounds Aug. 4, with music, bouncy houses and a variety of fun activities available throughout the day. The day will wrap up with an explanation of the fishing rules and regulations, and each kid will receive a free T-shirt, hat, hooks, sinkers and bait.

Fishing will kick off at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Cherokee Oconaluftee Island Park with breakfast and door prizes offered at 7 a.m., and free fishing poles to the first 2,000 children. Kids will be given lunch at 11 a.m., with tournament winners announced at 1 p.m. Face painting, balloon twisting, snow cones and ice cream will be available throughout the day, with door prizes given out as well.

Frieda Huskey, 828.359.6492 or friehusk@nc-cherokee.com.

The Cataloochee area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers ample hiking and rich species diversity. File photo

Hike Boogerman

A 6.6-mile hike through the Cataloochee area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will explore the rivulets and plant diversity of the Boogerman and Caldwell Fork trails on Saturday, Aug. 5.

Led by Chris Hoge of Wildland Trekking, the hike is part of the Great Smoky Mountains Association’s Hiking 101 series designed to enhance knowledge and

appreciation of the park’s backcountry while safely exploring some of its lesserused areas.

The hike will start at 8 a.m. and finish sometime before 4 a.m. Participants should bring a daypack supplied with food, water and clothing for changeable weather. $10 for GSMA members and $35 for nonmembers. Register at http://conta.cc/2gWSJ5R.

Mountain Wildlife Days a success

The 14th annual Mountain Wildlife Days drew more than 600 people to Sapphire Valley Resort July 14-15, offering a variety of hikes, performances and opportunities to see wild animals up close. A silent auction of donated items held in conjunction with the event raised $3,000 for Mountain Wildlife Outreach, a series of wildlife education programs given to Western North Carolina schools. The funds will guarantee 12 to 14 programs for the upcoming year. Last year, 13 programs were held reaching 2,100 students. www.mountainwildlifedays.com.

High schoolers become eclipse experts

A Solar Eclipse Education Program at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont will turn high school students into experts tasked with helping the large numbers of visitors sure to come for the cosmic event understand the science behind the spectacle.

The program will teach students about the eclipse and conservation issues while also providing leadership training and allowing them to serve as park docents during public eclipse events in the park.

A $7,000 grant from the First Tennessee Foundation will provide scholarships for underserved students from area high schools. The University of Tennessee is providing $5,000 of work to assess the outcomes of the project, while the Corporation for National and Community Service will contribute about $3,600 for additional outreach, curriculum development and administration. Other contributors include the National Park Service and NASA, which will provide outreach for the event.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in the path of totality for the solar eclipse Aug. 21. This will be the first total eclipse on the continental U.S. since 1979.

Experience a 1955 thru-hike

Actress Anne Van Curen will transform into Emma “Grandma” Gatewood to tell the story of the first woman to solo hike the Appalachian Trail during a presentation at noon Friday, Aug. 4, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Van Curen will base her portrayal on the New York Times bestseller Grandma Gatewood’s Walk, which tells the story of Gatewood’s 1955 thru-hike of the 2,000-plus-mile trail. The audience will learn about what motivated Gatewood to start the hike all those years ago and how hiking has changed in the past 60 years.

Organized by the Great Smoky Mountains Association. $30 for GSMA members; $35 for nonmembers. Sandwiches, desserts and iced tea from City Lights Café included. Sign up at http://conta.cc/2ueNHX0.

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale is from Thursday through Saturday, July 27-29, at Waynesville Library. Hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday; and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday. To volunteer: 627.2370.

• Grace Church in the Mountains is accepting grant applications from non-profit organizations in Haywood County. Distributions from the church’s Annual Parish Fair will be given to local charities. Application deadline is July 26. Fair is Saturday, July 29. Application forms available at the church office. 456.6029 or gracewaynesville@msn.com.

• A “Summer Lights” evening program is scheduled for 9 p.m. each night from Aug. 2-6 at the N.C. Arboretum in Asheville. Projected-light show synchronized to music from the Blue Ridge Orchestra. $18 for adults; $12 for children 5-11. N.C. Arboretum Society members get a $2 discount on each ticket. Ncarboretum.org.

• The Swain County Genealogical and Historical Society’s annual picnic is at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3, at the Swain County Regional Business Education and Training Center in Bryson City. “Glimpses of the Past: A Historical Calendar of Swain County” 18month calendars for sale at $20 each.

• Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation will hold its 12th annual Downtown Dog Walk at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5, in downtown Waynesville. Registration starts at 8 a.m. Contests for best-dressed dog, best dog trick and best tail-wagging dog. Registration forms at www.sargeanimals.org. $15 fee for each dog. 246.9050.

• A birthday party for Smoky the Bear, who turns 73, is scheduled for 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Cradle of Forestry in America in Pisgah Forest. $6 for ages 16-up $3 for ages 15-under. www.cradleofforestry.com.

• No-cost veterinary services will be provided from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Aug. 8-10 at the Swain County Recreation Ball Fields at 30 Rec Park Drive in Bryson City.

• Tickets are on sale now for a train ride following the route of the Southern Railway Murphy Branch Line established in 1891. Ridge will be offered on Saturday, Aug. 12, from Johnson City, Tenn., to Bryson City and back. Tickets: $83-152 for adults; $69-79 for children 2-12. Meals available for purchase. Printable order forms: www.wataugavalleynrhs.org. Info: 423.753.5797 or wataugavalley@embarqmail.com.

• A TED talk discussion on “The Power of Vulnerability” will be offered on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Waynesville Library. 15-20 minute talk followed by discussion. Registration required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

• Reservations are being accepted for the induction ceremony for the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians Hall of Fame, which is set for Aug. 26 at the Southwestern Community College Swain Center in Bryson City. $35 per person includes lunch and weekend admission to the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians. info@greatsmokies.com or 488.3681.

•The Cherokee Bonfire & Storytelling will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through Oct. 28 at the Oconaluftee Islands Park. Sit by a bonfire, alongside a river, and listen to some of Cherokee’s best storytellers. The bonfire is free and open to the public. www.visitcherokeenc.com.

B USINESS & E DUCATION

• Open house for Macon Early College is at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 7. Freshman and new student orientation.

All phone numbers area code 828 unless otherwise noted.

• Boating safety courses will be offered from 6-9 p.m. on Aug. 7-8 in Building 3300, Room 3322, at Haywood Community College in Clyde. Participants must attend both evenings. Register: www.ncwildlife.org.

• Small business owners can find materials and services to support business growth throughout Retailer Month (July) and beyond at Fontana Regional Library’s locations in Macon, Jackson and Swain Counties. Computer classes and one-on-one assistance also available. 586.2016 or www.fontanalib.org.

• A meeting of current and former employees of the Waynesville plant of Champion/Blue Ridge/Evergreen is held at 8 a.m. on the first Monday of each month at BoJangles near Lake Junaluska’s entrance.

FUNDRAISERSAND B ENEFITS

• Tickets are on sale now for the Cashiers Historical Society’s “2017 Cashiers Designers Showhouse™ that will be held Aug. 12-27 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sundays. One-day tickets are $40 in advance or $45 at the entrance; multi-day tickets are $70 in advance or $75 at the entrance. Tickets available at www.cashiershistoricalsociety.org. Three newly constructed cottages will be featured.

VOLUNTEERS & VENDORS

• The Town of Canton is accepting submissions for the 111th Labor Day Festival “A Celebration of All Things Made in Western North Carolina” until 4 p.m. on Aug. 21. Send artist bio, photos and sample of work to: Town of Canton, Attn.: Canton Labor Day; 58 Park Street; Canton, NC 28716. 648.2363.

H EALTH MATTERS

• A “Walk With A Doc” program is scheduled for 10 a.m. each Saturday at the Lake Junaluska Kern Center or Canton Rec Park.

MyHaywoodRegional.com/WalkwithaDoc.

• A tired leg/varicose vein educational program is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 27, at the Vein Center at Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde. Led by Dr. Al Mina, MD, FACS, and Dr. Joshua Rudd, DO. RSVP required: 452.VEIN (8346).

• Vickie Bradley, secretary of Public Health and Human Services for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, will talk about the current state and future of Cherokee Health at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 27, at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva. Part of the Native Voices exhibition. 586.2016.

• A “Native American Summer Conference” will be held from July 28-30 at Lake Junaluska. Learn about substance abuse, historical trauma and health issues. Talent show and ice cream social. www.lakejunaluska.com.

• “Native Voices: Native Peoples’ Concepts of Health and Illness” will be on exhibit through July 31 at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

• The Smoky Mountain Medical Innovative Readiness Training is scheduled for Aug. 2-10 at Swain and Hayesville High Schools. Registration begins at 8 a.m. daily. Medical, dental and optical care for residents ages 2-up who are uninsured, underinsured or in need of quality patient care at no cost.

• Registration is underway for a “Refuse To Be A

Victim” program, which will be offered at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 15, at Haywood County Farm Bureau at 1520 Asheville Road in Waynesville. Designed for women who want the opportunity to be proactive by developing methods to avoid dangerous situations. Led by Kevin Brooks of the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office. RSVP by Aug. 8: 452.1425 or Karen.greene@ncfbssc.com.

• Registration is underway for a volunteer training for REACH of Macon County, which also serves Jackson County. Training is from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Aug. 17-18. Anyone who volunteers at a domestic violence agency in North Carolina and wants to work more directly with clients needs 20 hours of training beforehand. Register: http://tinyurl.com/ycj9slfn.

R ECREATIONAND FITNESS

• Sign-ups are underway for a Corn Hole tournament fundraiser, which is scheduled for noon on Saturday, Aug. 19, at Bear Waters Brewing Company in Canton. All funds raised will support Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Haywood County.

• An opportunity the Bellyak (prone paddling/lay-on-top kayaking) will be offered through the Jackson County Parks & Recreation department at 11 a.m. on Aug. 20. $30. Rec.jacksonnc.org or 293.3053.

• Pickleball, a cross between tennis, badminton and ping-pong, will be offered from 9 a.m.-noon on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Old Hazelwood Gym in Waynesville. $3 per visit, or $20 for a 10-visit card. 452.6789 or drtaylor@haywoodnc.net.

• Jackson County Rec Department will have disc golf tournament at 10 a.m. on Aug. 19. Cost is $5 for singles or $10 for doubles. www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

COMPETITIVE E DGE

• Registration is underway for the fourth annual 80s Flashback 8K, which is Aug. 5 in Franklin. Fundraiser for Greenville Shriners Hospital. Entertainment by 80s tribute acts. 421.7637.

• The Paddle Grapple race is at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5, on Lake Fontana. Three- and six-mile race options. Paddleboards, surfski, marathon, kayak and canoe. Classes available. $45 with registration at paddleguru.com/races/PaddleGrapple2017 or onsite starting at 8 a.m.

S PIRITUAL

• Rev. Dr. Tim McClendon, senior pastor at St. John’s United Methodist Church (UMC) in Aiken, S.C., will be the featured speaker at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 30, in Stuart Auditorium at Lake Junaluska. Part of the Summer Worship Series. The Lake Junaluska Singers will lead worship music.

• Jessica La Grone, author and dean of the chapel at Asbury Theological Seminary, will speak during the morning worship services on July 30 at Long’s Chapel in Waynesville. Part of the Summer Speaker Series.

• The Lake Junaluska Singers will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 4 in Stuart Auditorium at Lake Junaluska. Tickets available at www.lakejunaluska.com or in the Bethea Welcome Center.

• Rev. Dr. John Ed Mathison, a retired pastor in the United Methodist Church, will be the featured speaker at 10:30 a.m. on Aug. 6 in Stuart Auditorium at Lake Junaluska. Part of the Summer Worship Series. The Lake Junaluska Singers will lead worship music.

Visit www.smokymountainnews.com and click on Calendar for:

■ Complete listings of local music scene

■ Regional festivals

■ Art gallery events and openings

■ Complete listings of recreational offerings at regional health and fitness centers

■ Civic and social club gatherings

AUTHORSAND B OOKS

• Ben Anderson will hold book signings for “Smokies Chronicle: A Year of Hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park” on the following dates/locations: 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 26, at Albert Carlton Library in Cashiers; and at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 21, at the Waynesville Public Library. parthemore@blairpub.com or 800.222.9796.

• Linda Star Wolf will present her new book, Soul Whispering: The Art of Awakening Shamanic, at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 28, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. To reserve copies of Soul Whispering, please call City Lights Bookstore at 586.9499.

• Poet Tyler Auffhammer will read from his new collection of poetry, Threshold, at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at the City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. To reserve copies of Threshold, please call City Lights Bookstore at 586.9499.

• A pair of book signings featuring works by writer Nancy Turner and photographer Gil Stose will be held from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, at the Highland Hiker Cabin in Cashiers. Turner and Stose collaborated on “Wings,” which shows an aerial view of Western NC. Turner wrote “The Summer Times,” a comprehensive history of the area with info on local hikes and attractions.

• Actress Anne Van Curen will portray Emma “Grandma” Gatewood in “Grandma Gatewood’s Walk: A snack and a story” from noon-1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 4, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. www.smokiesinformation.org.

• Award-winning author Lawrence Thackston will present his new mystery-thriller at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 4, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. To reserve copies, call 828.586.9499.

• Kentucky author Kim Michele Richardson will hold a discussion on the path to publication at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. To reserve copies of her books, please call City Lights Bookstore at 586.9499.

•The “Coffee with the Poet” series gathers at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva the third Thursday of each month and is co-sponsored by the North Carolina Writers Network. 586.9499.

S ENIORACTIVITIES

• The Festival of Wisdom & Grace, with the theme of “Living with Grace” is scheduled for Aug 7-10 at Lake Junaluska. Worship, workshops, professional training and fellowship geared toward those in the second half of life. www.lakejunaluska.com.

• The Smart Driver program will be offered from 1-5 p.m. on July 26 at the Haywood Resource Center in Waynesville. Highlights areas of opportunity in which older drivers could benefit from additional training. $15 for AARP members; $20 for nonmembers. 452.2370.

• The Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department will hold an organizational meeting for a senior trip to Savannah, Ga., at 6 p.m. on Aug. 2 at the Waynesville Recreation Center. Trip is scheduled for Sept. 10-13. 456.2030 or tpetrea@waynesvillenc.gov.

K IDS & FAMILIES

• Voices in the Laurel will host its seventh annual SummerVoice Music Camp from July 31-Aug. 4 at First Baptist Church in Waynesville. Open to rising firstthrough 12th-graders. Tuition: $95 for first-fifth graders; $125 for sixth-12th graders. 734.9163. Register: www.voiceinthelaurel.org.

• Registration is underway for the Talking Trees Children’s Trout Derby, which is Aug. 4-5 at Oconaluftee Islands Park in Cherokee. Pre-register through Aug. 5 at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds.

• Registration for Fall Soccer is through July 30 with the Jackson County Recreation Department. $55. For players born between 2004-13. Games will be on Saturdays. www.rec.jacksonnc.org.

• “The Wizard of Oz” train ride will leave the station at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. July 21-23 at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City. For more information and to purchase tickets, click on www.gsmr.com.

• Power of the Produce Club for children will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturdays, through July 29, at the Jackson County Farmers Market in Sylva. Activities, food art, scavenger hunt and more. 393.5236.

• Macon County 4-H will hold a pair of “Stain Glass Art” programs on Aug. 2 for ages 5-8 at Fire & Lights Studio in Franklin. Classes are from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2:30-4:30 p.m. $6.

• Fontana Fun Day for ages 9-up is from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. on Aug. 4 at Fontana Village. Part of Macon County 4-H Summer Relief. $12.

• Doll and Me Tea Party for ages 5-18 is scheduled for noon-2 p.m. on Aug. 7 at the Cooperative Extension Office. Part of Macon County 4-H Summer Relief. $10.

• Farm to Table Lunch for ages 9-18 is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Aug. 9 at the Cooperative Extension Office. Part of Macon County 4-H Summer Relief. $5.

• As part of the “Build a Better World” summer reading program, Marianna Black Library will have movies at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, story time for ages 3-5 at 10:30 a.m.on Wednesdays and a summer learning program each Thursday. www.fontanalib.org or 488.3030.

• Haywood County Public Library’s summer reading program, themed “Build a Better World,” runs through Monday, July 31. Register at any of the library system’s branches. www.haywoodlibrary.org.

• A Junior Forester Program is scheduled for 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, through Aug. 9, at the Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah Forest. http://tinyurl.com/y87c3gqn.

• Woodsy Owl’s Curiosity Club meets from 10:30 a.m.3 p.m. on through Aug. 10, at the Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah Forest. Outdoor-oriented activity each day explores a different forest-related theme. For ages 4-7. $4 per child per program; accompanying adults admitted for $2.50. http://tinyurl.com/yc7u5unk.

• A “Youth Art Class” will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon every Saturday at the Appalachian Art Farm on 22 Morris Street in Sylva. All ages welcome. $10 includes instruction, materials and snack. For more information, email appalachianartfarm@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.

• Marianna Black Library will present “Build a Better World” – a summer learning program – through July 30 in Bryson City. Children will be awarded prizes for reading (or being read to) 15 minutes each day. 488.3030.

• Registration is underway for kids’ fishing event, which will be offered from 9-11 a.m. on Aug. 5, at the Mountain Research Station in Waynesville. Presented by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Learn how to cast, put on bait and remove fish from a hook. Tanya.poole@ncwildlife.org or 329.3472.

• Registration is underway for a “Plants a Plenty” summer camp, which is Aug. 1-4, at the Highlands Nature Center. For ages 4-6. 526.2623 or www.highlandsbiological.org.

K IDSFILMS

• “Spider-Man: Homecoming will be shown on July 2527 at 7 p.m. at The Strand on Main in Waynesville. “The Emoji Movie” will be shown on July 28 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., July 29 at 4:15 p.m., July 30 at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m., July 31-Aug. 4 at 1 p.m., and 7 p.m., Aug. 5 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Aug. 6 at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m., Aug. 7 at 7 p.m., Aug. 8 at 1 p.m., and 7 p.m., Aug. 9 at 7 p.m., and Aug. 10 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. at The Strand on Main in Waynesville.

• A family movie will be shown at 10:30 a.m. every Friday at Hudson Library in Highlands.

p.m. July 28-29 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. The weekend event will feature live music, food, crafts, cornhole, car show, and much more. Throughout the two-days, there will be several bands onstage, including headliners Andalyn (rock) and Emi Sunshine (singer-songwriter) on Friday and Lyric (soul/funk) and Joe Lasher Jr. (country/rock) on Saturday. There will also be a special appearance by characters from the popular TV show “Moonshiners.” Tickets are $10 per day, free for ages 10 and under. For a full schedule of events and more information, www.thehillbillyjam.com.

• Warren Wilson College’s Swannanoa Chamber Music Festival will come to Waynesville at 7:30 p.m. on July 29 at the Performing Arts Center. Featuring pianist Vadym Kholodenko, the Tesla string quartet and pianist Inessa Zaretsky. Tickets: $25. Free for students 25under with ID. https://scm-festival.com.

• The 9th annual Mountain High BBQ Festival & Car Show will be Aug. 11-12 at the Wayne Proffitt Agricultural Center in Franklin.

KCBS Sanctioned BBQ Cookoff for Backyard and Professional teams. Barbecue vendors will be on the premises to sell great tasting BBQ. Food vendors, crafters, cooking demonstrations and a car show will round out the exciting features of the festival. www.mountainhighbbqfestival.com or 524.3161.

F OOD & D RINK

• Mad Anthony’s Taproom & Restaurant will have a “Grand Reopening” from noon to 2 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at 180 Legion Drive in Waynesville (behind Bogart’s). Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. will be on-hand and co-hosting the event, with special selections available for tasting and purchase. Live music will be provided by Tonology (rock/acoustic) at 9 p.m. www.madanthonys.bar.

A&E

FESTIVALSAND S PECIAL EVENTS

• Folkmoot, North Carolina’s International Folk Festival, is through July 30, in towns throughout Western North Carolina. Folk dance and world culture featuring ambassadors and dance performing groups from India, Netherlands, Russia, Israel and more – as well as local Appalachian and Cherokee dancers and musicians. Performances in Waynesville, Clyde, Lake Junaluska, Maggie Valley, Canton, Cherokee, Franklin, Hickory, Asheville and Hendersonville. For complete schedule of performances, and to purchase tickets, visit www.folkmootusa.org. 452.2997.

• The “Hillbilly Jam” will be held from 10 a.m. to 10

Puzzles can be found on page 46.

These are only the answers.

• Tickets are on sale now for the Harrah’s Cherokee Riverwalk 3rd annual Brew BQ followed by a live concert featuring Aaron Lewis (country) at the Event Center. Brew BQ is from noon-7 p.m. on Aug. 19, featuring barbecue and beer from the Carolinas. Tickets: 800.745.3000 or ticketmaster.com.

• Sneak E Squirrel Brewing (Sylva) will host the Jackson County Corn Hole Association on Monday evenings ($5 buy in, 100-percent payout), Karaoke with Captain Moose from 7 to 11 p.m. on Tuesdays, Trivia at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and a Guitar Hero Tournament at 7 p.m. on Thursdays. 586.6440.

ON STAGE & I N CONCERT

• A legendary doo-wop group well known for hits such as “Yakety Yak,” “Charlie Brown,” “Young Blood” and “Searchin,’” The Coasters will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 28, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Tickets start at $18. www.greatmountainmusic.com or 273.4615.

• Acclaimed hard rock act Seether will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 30, at Harrah’s Cherokee. Letters from the Fire will open the show. 800.745.3000 or www.tickemaster.com.

• Tickets go on sale Aug. 1 for the “Galaxy of Stars” performance series by WCU PRESENTS. Featuring artists from around the world at the Bardo Arts Center performance hall in Cullowhee. Season subscription: $125 for general public; $100 for WCU/Southwestern Community College faculty and staff and seniors 65 and older; $25 for WCU and SCC students. Season opens Sept. 7 with the Hillbenders (bluegrass) performing “The Who’s Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry.” Full lineup, info and tickets: bardoartscenter.wcu.edu or 227.ARTS.

• Legendary country act Shenandoah will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Tickets start at $24. 866.273.4615 or www.greatmountainmusic.com.

• Tickets are on sale now for a 3 Doors Down performance as a fundraiser for the Better Life Foundation on Oct. 21 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or 800.745.3000.

• “Unto These Hills” drama will be performed at 8 p.m. nightly through Aug. 19 at 688 Drama Road in Cherokee. A reimagining of the Cherokee Story. http://tinyurl.com/ycm83jwv.

S UMMER M USIC S ERIES

• As part of its “Summer Music Series,” the Marianna Black Library presents an evening with Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and Grammy Award winner Bill Mize at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 27, in Bryson City. Free. 488.3030 or www.fontanalib.org/brysoncity.

• The “Concerts on the Creek” series at Bridge Park in Sylva will host Mountain Faith (bluegrass/gospel) on July 28 and PMA (reggae/fusion) on Aug. 4. Both shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. www.mountainlovers.com.

• The “Friday Night Live” concert series at the Town Square in Highlands will host Johnny Webb Band (country) on July 28 and Mountain Dulcimer Group (bluegrass) Aug. 4 . Free and begins at 6 p.m. www.highlandschamber.org.

• The “An Appalachian Evening” summer concert series will feature Michael Cleveland & Flamekeepr on July 29 and The Bankesters on Aug. 5 at the Stecoah Valley Center. All shows at 7:30 p.m. www.stecoahvalleycenter.com for tickets.

• Concerts on the Square will continue with Paradise 56 (country/classic rock) on July 28 at the town square in Hayesville. www.cccra-nc.org.

• “Saturdays on Pine” will host The Company Stores July 29 and PMA (reggae/fusion) Aug. 5. at KelsyHutchinson Park in Highlands. All shows are at 6 p.m. www.highlandschamber.org.

• The “Groovin’ on the Green” concert series at The Village Green in Cashiers will host The Buchanan Boys (country/rock) July 28 and The Jackson Taylor Band Aug. 4. Free and begins at 6:30 p.m. www.villagegreencashiersnc.com.

• The “Pickin’ On The Square” concert series will host Caribbean Cowboys (beach/pop) July 29 and Johnny Webb Band (country) Aug. 5. All shows are free and begin at 7:30 p.m. www.townoffranklinnc.com or 524.2516.

• The “Tunes on the Tuck” concert series will host Karen “Sugar” Barnes (folk/blues) on July 29 and Grandpa’s Music (bluegrass/mountain) Aug. 5 at Riverfront Park. All shows are free and begin at 7 p.m. www.greatsmokies.com.

• Pickin’ in the Park (Canton) will be held at 7 p.m. July 28 and Aug. 4 at the Recreation Park. Free and open to the public. www.cantonnc.com.

• “Music on the River” series will host AM Superstars (alternative) Aug. 4 and Will Hayes Band (classic country/rock) Aug. 5 at the Cherokee Welcome Center Kiosk in Cherokee. Shows start at 7 p.m. 359.6490 or travel@nc-cherokee.com.

• “Music on the River” series will host The Trippin Hardie Band (acoustic) on July 28 and Aaron Jones (country/honky tonk) on July 29 at the Cherokee Welcome Center Kiosk in Cherokee. Shows start at 7 p.m. 359.6490 or travel@nc-cherokee.com.

• Cradle of Forestry in America’s annual Songcatchers Music Series will host Pretty Little Goat on July 30, in Pisgah Forest. $6 for ages 16-up; $3 for 15-under. 877.3130 or www.cradleofforestry.org.

CLASSESAND PROGRAMS

• The Franklin Uptown Gallery is calling everyone in the community to show off their creative side for the upcoming “Eclipse Celebration,” which will be Aug. 21. For more information, contact Bonnie Abbott at the Gallery on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 349.4607, all other times at blrabbott@yahoo.com or 743.0200.

• The 52nd “Gemboree” will be held July 27-30 at the Robert C. Carpenter Community Building in Franklin. Rough and cut Gems, minerals, fine jewelry, supplies, beads, door prizes, dealers, exhibits, demonstrations, and more. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ThursdaySaturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. 524.3161. www.franklin-chamber.com.

• A “Wire Art Jewelry Class” will be offered from 12:30-3 p.m. on Friday, July 28, at the Jackson County Extension Office in Sylva. Led by local artist and crafter Lawrie Williams. $10. Bring jewelry pliers. Register: 586.4009.

• The “Click & Sip Workshop” will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, July 28, at Gallery Zella in Bryson City. Enjoy mastering photography techniques used by professionals. Attend with a buddy, daughter, son or even your sweetheart. Take home an incredible memory of your trip to the mountains — your own original fine art photograph. Your instructor, Drew Campbell, is known as the area’s finest photography teacher. Students will be presented with various techniques to improve photo composition and how to properly use light to create superior photos. Cost is $50, which includes 8x12 metal print. For more information, call 488.3638 or click on www.galleryzella.com.

• Experienced crafter and Extension and Community Association (ECA) member Ernie Plemmons will offer beginning crochet classes from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 1 at the Jackson County Extension Center in Sylva. The cost of the class is $10 and space is limited. Please call the office at 586.4009 to register and for supply list.

• Part 1 of a “Batik Basics” program will be presented by the Appalachian Art Farm from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, at 22 Morris Street in Sylva. $35. Part 2 is Aug. 5; cost for both sessions is $60 combined. myriahstrivelli@gmail.com.

• A “Beginning Bladesmithing Class” with Brock Martin of WarFire Forge will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 29-30 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Cost is $225, materials included. To register, call 631.0271 or click on www.jcgep.org.

• A rock painting party is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on July 31 at Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. An opportunity to join in the social media craze that’s sweeping the nation. 488.3030.

• An “Armor Construction: Spaulders Class” with Brock Martin of WarFire Forge will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 5-6 at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Cost is $265, materials included. To register, 631.0271 or www.jcgep.org.

• The “Creating Art at the Homestead” art workshop will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, in the Tuckasegee Valley. Facilitated by artist Doreyl Ammons Cain. Beginners, those who would like to try their hand at painting with pastels and experienced artists are welcome.293.2239 or on Facebook. Limit of 10 students.

ARTSHOWINGSAND GALLERIES

• The “Meet the Artist” reception with Brian Hannum (pianist), Drew Campbell (photographer) and Jon Houglum (painter) will be from 3 to 7 p.m. July 28, at Gallery Zella in Bryson City. 488.3638 or www.galleryzella.com.

• The Haywood County Arts Council “Members Show” will run through July 29 at Gallery & Gifts in downtown Waynesville. The showcase will feature an array of local artisans and art mediums. Free and open to the public. 828.452.0593 or www.haywoodarts.org.

• Haywood County Arts council “ArtShare” exhibit – a showing of fine works of art. Exhibit runs from Aug. 426. 33rockyknob@gmail.com or 452.0593.

• Anne Fariello “Signs of the Times” exhibit of documentary photography is currently on display at the Jackson County Public Library in Sylva.

• Several exhibitions are on display this summer at the Western Carolina University Fine Art Museum at the Bardo Arts Center. “Water Portraits: Barbara Tyroler” is on exhibition until Aug. 25 “Print Plus One: Beyond the Glass Matrix” by various artists at Harvey K. Littleton Studios in Spruce Pine has a closing reception from 57 p.m. on July 27. “Ancient Forms, Modern Minds: Contemporary Cherokee Ceramics” is on display through Nov. 10. 227.ARTS or bardoartscenter.wcu.edu.

• “Spirit of Place: Artwork by Elizabeth Ellison” – an art exhibit – will be on display through Sept. 4. at the Asheville Arboretum.

• The inaugural Shelton House Crafter Showcase is on display at the Shelton House and the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts in Waynesville. www.sheltonhouse.org or info@sheltonhouse.org.

• The graduating class of Haywood Community College’s Professional Crafts program will exhibit their best work from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through Sept. 24 at the Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville. 627.4673 or haywood.edu.

• A new exhibition titled “Within the Margins: Contemporary Ceramics,” curated by Steven Young Lee, will be on display at Penland Gallery off Penland Road near Spruce Pine in Mitchell County. 765.6211 or penland.org/gallery.

• The Western North Carolina “Artists Count” project is hosting a series of exhibitions to highlight the rich visual contributions made by area artists. The first such exhibit, “Smoky Mountains Sampler” is now open at the Welcome Center north of Asheville on Interstate 26. Southwestern Community College instructors Ed McIlvaine and Susan Coe as well as SCC student Kari McIlvaine have their pottery on display through July.

FILM & S CREEN

• “Movies on Everett” will screen the film “Raiders of the Lost Ark” will be screened on July 28. at the Caboose in downtown Bryson City. Free and open to the public. www.greatsmokies.com.

• “Gifted” will be shown on July 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva.

• “The Boss Baby” will be shown on July 27 at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva.

• “A Trip to the Moon and Beyond” – science fiction silent films of George Melies – will be shown at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 2, in the Macon County Public Library Meeting Room in Franklin. Each film will be presented with a live soundtrack featuring musicians Tyler Kittle and Michael Libramento.

• Registration is underway for the screening of “America Divided,” an EPIX Original Documentary Series, which will be shown at 2 p.m. on consecutive Thursdays from Aug. 17-Sept. 24, at the Waynesville Library. Features narratives around inequality in education, housing, healthcare, labor, criminal justice and the political system. Registration required: 356.2507 or kolsen@haywoodnc.net.

• Free movies are shown every Thursday, Friday and Saturday at Mad Batter Food & Film in Sylva. Madbatterfoodfilm.com.

Outdoors

• Smoky Mountain Field School will offer a variety of hikes, classes and programs throughout July. For a schedule and to register, visit www.smfs.utk.edu or call 865.974.0150.

• A volunteer workday in Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 1, starting at the Salt Rock trailhead. Finish by 2 p.m. friends@panthertown.org or www.panthertown.org/volunteer.

• Volunteers are needed to help scientists collect data on songbirds throughout the summer. Dates include: Aug. 2 at Cowee Mound in Macon County and July 26 and Aug. 4 at Kituwah Mound in Swain County. 736.1217, bigbaldbanding@gmail.com or www.bigbaldbanding.org.

• Gardening at Oconaluftee, a Smokies Service Day, is scheduled for 9 a.m.-noon on Aug. 5. Opportunity to fulfill community service requirements. Sign up: 865.436.1278 or logan_boldon@partner.nps.gov.

• “Take in the View with a Ranger” program is held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursday of each month on the deck of the Pisgah Inn. Ask questions and learn about the Blue Ridge Parkway’s natural and cultural history.

• Tremont Institute is holding Bird Banding days on July 26, July 31 and Aug. 2 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. http://vimeo.com/220345535. http://gsmit.org/birds.

• Franklin Bird Club will have a bird walk along the greenway at 8 a.m. on July 26. Meet at Big Bear Shelter parking area at 8 a.m. 524.5234.

• A ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of a new life jacket loaner station is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 27, at Bear Lake (off Highway 281 to the gravel road, Bear Lake Road). 587.8227.

• A Zahner Lecture on “American Chestnut” will be offered at 6:30 p.m. on July 27 at the Nature Center at Highlands Biological Station. www.highlandsbiological.org or 526.2221.

• The Whitewater Junior Olympics will be held from July 28-30 at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Swain County. Events and activities start at noon and 6 p.m. on Friday; at noon, 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday; and conclude at 4 p.m. on Sunday. $45 through July 27 and open to youth 18-under. Free to watch. Nantahalaracingclub.com/events/junior-olympics.

• Learn how to become a better nature photographer during a workshop from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, in Balsam. Basic tips and techniques by Larry Thompson, former regional vice president for the National Audubon Society. $35 for ages 10-up. 452.5414 or lvthompson@earthlink.net.

• Biomonitoring surveys of breeding birds is scheduled for 7-11 a.m. on Aug. 2 – weather permitting – at the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ Cowee Mount near Franklin. https://bigbaldbanding.org/calendar, bigbaldbanding@gmail.com or 736.1217.

• Franklin Bird Club will have a bird walk along the greenway at 8 a.m. on Aug. 2. Parking is off Fox Ridge Road south of Franklin Flea Market on Highlands Road. 524.5234 or https://franklinbirdclub.com.

• Dr. James Costa, executive director of the Highlands Biological Station, will give a Zahner Lecture titled “Darwin’s Backyard: How Small Experiments Led to a Big Theory” at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3, at the Highlands Nature Center at 930 Horse Cove Road in Highlands. 526.2221.

• Birding for beginners and beyond is at 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 5, starting at Founders Park in Highlands. www.highlandsaudubonsociety.org or 526.1939.

• Mainspring Conservation Trust will host a “Family Fun: Sun, Snorkel & Snoop” program from 10 a.m.noon on Aug. 5 in the Tuckasegee River. http://tinyurl.com/y7rnxwbr.

• “John James Audubon: Drawn from Nature,” A PBS American Masters film, will be presented at 7 p.m. on Aug. 8 in the rear meeting room of the Hudson Library in Highlands. www.highlandsaudubonsociety.org or 526.1939.

• A “Mysteries of the Night Sky” program will be offered at 9 p.m. on Aug. 8 at the Highlands Nature Center at 930 Horse Cove Road in Highlands. 526.2221.

• The Tusquitee Ranger District will hold an open house from 3-6 p.m. on August 8 at the Brasstown Community Center. Learn and talk about local issues, district projects and forest plan revision. www.fs.usda.gov/goto/nfsnc/ncprevision.

• Franklin Bird Club will have a bird walk along the greenway at 8 a.m. on Aug. 9. Meet at the Macon County Public Library parking area. 524.5234 or https://franklinbirdclub.com.

• Through Aug. 12, Great Smoky Mountains National Park will hold daily Ranger-Guided programs. www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/kidsyouth/index.htm.

• A cycling ride leaves at 8 a.m. on Saturdays from South Macon Elementary School. Routes vary with distances typically 15-25 miles. Road bikes only. A no drop ride. Organized by Smoky Mountain Bicycles, 828.369.2881 or info@smokymtnbikes.com.

S OLAR E CLIPSE

• Tickets are on sale now for an opportunity to catch the total solar eclipse, which is on Aug. 21, at Scaly Mountain Outdoor Center’s Total Blackout Party. The event includes music from Group Therapy, Stankgrass and a variety of activities. Entry fee: $20 for adults, $15 for ages up to 18 and free for children four and under. Parking: $5 per vehicle. Scalymountain.com.

FARMAND GARDEN

• The annual WATR Summer Picnic is from 6-8:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, at Darnell Farm in Swain County.

• “More in My Basket at the Market” classes are

offered in July and September at the Cooperative Extension Service in Waynesville. Learn benefits of shopping at the farmer’s market. Info and to register: 456.3575.

FARMERS MARKET

• The Jackson county Farmers Market is from 9 a.m.noon each Saturday at Bridge Park on Railroad Ave. in Sylva. www.jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org. 393.5236.

• A community tailgate market for local growers is open from 3-7 p.m. every Wednesday at The Village Green Commons in Cashiers. 734.3434, info@villagegreencashiersnc.com or www.villagegreencashiersnc.com.

• Haywood Historic Farmers Market is held from 8 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the parking lot of HART Theatre in Waynesville. haywoodfarmersmarket@gmail.com, www.waynesvillefarmersmarket.com or www.facebook.com/HaywoodHistoricFarmersMarket.

• The Original Waynesville Tailgate Market is from 8 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 171 Legion Drive in Waynesville (behind Bogart’s). 456.1830 or vrogers12@att.net.

• The Jackson County Farmers Market will be on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon at Bridge Park located in Sylva. Info: 393.5236. jacksoncountyfarmersmarket@gmail.com or website jacksoncountyfarmersmarket.org.

• The ‘Whee Farmer’s Market is open from 4 p.m. to dusk every Tuesday at the University Inn on 563 N. Country Club Drive in Cullowhee, behind the entrance to the Village of Forest Hills off Highway 107 across from Western Carolina University. 476.0334. www.facebook.com/CullowheeFarmersMarket.

• The Franklin Farmers Tailgate Market is from 8 a.m.noon on Saturdays on East Palmer Street across from Drake Software in Franklin. 349.2049 or alan_durden@ncsu.edu.

• Swain County Farmers Market will be open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Fridays through October at the barn on Island Street in Bryson City. 488.3848 or Christine_bredenkamp@ncsu.edu.

H IKING CLUBS

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take an easy-to-moderate 4.5-mile hike with an elevation change of 400 feet on Saturday, July 29, on the Bartram trail from Jones Gap to White Rock Mountain. Info and reservations: 342.9274.

• Carolina Mountain Club will have an 8.4-mile hike with a 300-foot ascent on July 29 from Grassy Ridge Mine Overlook to Balsam Gap. Info and reservations: 505.0471 or mwbromberg@yahoo.com.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a moderate-tostrenuous, seven-mile hike with a 300-foot elevation change on Saturday, July 29 in Panthertown Valley. Reservations and info: 743.1079.

• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a six-mile, moderate hike with an elevation change of 700 feet on Saturday, July 29, on the Big Creek Trail to Three Forks. Info and reservations: 864.784.2124.

• Carolina Mountain Club will have a 5.5-mile hike with a 1,000-foot ascent on July 30 at Horsepasture River. Info and reservations: 230.4883 or kathannigan@gmail.com.

• Carolina Mountain Club will have a five-mile hike with a 600-foot ascent on July 30 on the East Fork of Pigeon River. Info and reservations: 696.9117, 712.0736 or luchat@bellsouth.net.

• Carolina Mountain Club will have a 10-mile hike with a 1,700-foot ascent on Aug. 6 at Sam Knob Loop. Reservations and info: 275.6447 or ejb5711@gmail.com.

MarketPlace information:

The Smoky Mountain News Marketplace has a distribution of 16,000 every week to over 500 locations across in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties along with the Qualla Boundary and west Buncombe County. For a link to our MarketPlace Web site, which also contains a link to all of our MarketPlace display advertisers’ Web sites, visit www.smokymountainnews.com.

Rates:

■ Free — Lost or found pet ads.

■ $5 — Residential yard sale ads,

■ $5 — Non-business items that sell for less than $150.

■ $15 — Classified ads that are 50 words or less; each additional line is $2. If your ad is 10 words or less, it will be displayed with a larger type.

■ $3 — Border around ad and $5 — Picture with ad or colored background.

■ $50 — Non-business items, 25 words or less. 3 month or till sold.

■ $300 — Statewide classifieds run in 117 participating newspapers with 1.6 million circulation. Up to 25 words.

■ All classified ads must be pre-paid.

Classified Advertising:

Scott Collier, phone 828.452.4251; fax 828.452.3585 classads@smokymountainnews.com

PRIME REAL ESTATE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Your classified ad could be reaching over 1.6 Million Homes across North Carolina! Place your ad with The Smoky Mountain News on the NC Statewide Classified Ad Network- 118 NC newspapers for a low cost of $375 for 25-word ad to appear in each paper! Additional words are $10 each. The whole state at your fingertips! It's a smart advertising buy! Call Scott Collier at 828.452.4251 or for more information visit the N.C. Press Association's website at www.ncpress.com

BUILDING MATERIALS

HAYWOOD BUILDERS

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AUTO INSURANCE STARTING AT $49/month! Call for your fee rate comparison to see how much you can save! Call for more info

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HAYWOOD SPAY/NEUTER 828.452.1329

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Spay/Neuter For Haywood Pets As Low As $10. Operation Pit is in Effect!

Free Spay/Neuter, Microchip & Vaccines For Haywood Pitbull Types & Mixes!

Hours:

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BUSINESSFOR SALE

RETAIL/RESTARAUNT BUSINESS

For Sale, located in Maggie Valley, NC. Call 828.734.1665 for more information.

EMPLOYMENT

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

RAILROAD IN BRYSON CITY

Is currently hiring! We currently have vacancies for Concession Staff, Reservationist (Full-Time), Retail Sales Associate and Train Cleaning Attendant. Earn train passes, retail and food discounts, passes to area attractions and more!

Full job descriptions and applications are available at www.gsmr.com/jobs

You may also get an application from the Bryson City Depot located at 226 Everett Street in Bryson City.

FTCC

Fayetteville Technical Community College is now accepting applications for the following positions: Biology Instructor, Computer Support Technician II. For detailed information and to apply, please visit our employment portal at: https://faytechcc.peopleadmin.com Human Resources Office Phone: 910.678.7342 Internet: http://www.faytechcc.edu

An Equal Opportunity Employer

TOM - AN ADORABLE KITTEN ABOUT 8 WEEKS OLD. HE HAS A VERY STRIKING PATTERN TO HIS BLACK AND WHITE TUXEDO COAT AND HE'S GOING TO BE AN EXTREMELY HANDSOME ADULT KITTY. FOR NOW, HE IS CONTENT BEING A KITTEN, PLAYING WITH TOYS AND OTHER KITTENS IN OUR CATTERY. HE LIKES TO CUDDLE AND PURR WHEN HE ISN'T BUSY PLAYING

SADDLE - HAS QUICKLY BECOME A FAVORITE AT SARGE'S ADOPTION CENTER. HE IS SUPER FRIENDLY AND LOVES EVERYONE HE MEETS. HE HAS A SWEET TEMPERAMENT AND JUST WANTS TO BE LOVED. HE IS FAIRLY LARGE BUT HE'S A GENTLE SOUL, AND VERY EASY GOING. SADDLE IS ABOUT TWO YEARS OLD.

EMPLOYMENT

CDL A OR B DRIVERS NEEDED

To transfer vehicles from local body plants and customers to various customer locations throughout U.S.-No forced dispatch- We specialize in connecting the dots and reducing deadhead. Safety Incentives! Referral bonuses!! $.50 a mile base and all fuel paid!!! Call 1.800.501.3783 or apply at: www.mamotransportation.com/driv eaway-jobs-transport-driverswanted/

COLONIAL LIFE SEEKING Experienced Benefits Counselors. ImmediateIncome Potential! All training provided. LA&H license. Contact Jennifer: 843.323.6015. JAngelich@ColonialLife.com.

SPECIAL OPS U.S. NAVY. Elite training. Daring missions. Generous pay/benefits. HS grads ages 17-30. Do you have what it takes? Call Mon-Fri 800.662.7419

HOME WORKERS!!

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NICOL ARMS APARTMENTS

EMPLOYMENT

- HOUSEKEEPING -

Full Time or Part Time: Maggie Valley Cabin Resort Seeks an Energetic & Experienced Housekeeper. Valid Driver’s License Required. For more info Call 828.926.1388

LOOKING FOR HONEST SALES

People. Reply to: Supervisor, 131 Franklin Plaza, Ste. 334, Franklin, NC, 28734. Send legal size S.A.S.E. Info to Follow!

BRUCE MCGOVERN

A Full Service Realtor, Locally Owned and Operated mcgovernpropertymgt@gmail.com McGovern Property Management 828.283.2112.

BUYING A HOME

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Are you behind paying your MORTGAGE? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL Homeowner’s Relief Line now for the Help You Need 855.282.4732

MOUNTAINS OF NC

Chalet Style 1,340 sf cabin on 1.84 acres $159,900. Great views, lg loft w/ pict windows, fpl, huge deck. CallNow for more information 828.286.1666

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18 This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised on equal opportunity basis.

at $400 Section 8 Accepted - Rental Assistance When AvailableHandicapped Accessible Units When Available OFFICE HOURS: Wednesday 12:30pm - 4:00pm & Friday. 8:00am- 4:00pm 50 Duckett Cove Road, Waynesville Phone # 1-828-456-6776

FOR SALE BY OWNER

1.84+/- Unrestricted Acres of Wooded Property. Located at Elijay Area of Franklin, Off Hwy. 64E. For more information call 828.342.3142 COMM. PROP. FOR RENT

PROFESSIONAL MEETING SPACE

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STORAGE SPACE FOR RENT

CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE FOR YOU

1 Month Free with 12 Month Rental. Maggie Valley, Hwy. 19, 1106 Soco Rd. For more information call Torry 828.734.6500, 828.734.6700 maggievalleyselfstorage.com

GREAT SMOKIES STORAGE

Conveniently located off 19/23 by Thad Woods Auction. Available for lease now: 10’x10’ units for $55, 20’x20’ units for $160. Get one month FREE with 12 month contract. Call 828.507.8828 or 828.506.4112 for more info.

VACATION RENTALS

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WANTED TO BUY

FREON R12 WANTED: Certified Buyer Will Pick Up And Pay Ca$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. 312.291.9169; www.refrigerantfinders.com

- WANTED TO BUY -

U.S./ Foreign Coins! Call Dan 828.421.1616

SELL YOUR STRUCTURED Settlement or annuity payments for CASH NOW. You don't have to wait for your future payments any longer! Call 1.800.316.0271

FINANCIAL

BEWARE OF LOAN FRAUD.

Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company. SAPA

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY?

Up to $2,671/mo. (Based on paidin amount.) FREE evaluation! Call Bill Gordon & Associates.

1.800.670.4805.Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL., member TX/NM Bar.

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Free 24/7 Helpline for alcohol & drug addiction treatment. Get help! It is time to take your life back! Call Now for more info 855.398.4089

Yard/Garden Art, Signs, Flags, Suns & Other Collectibles. Everything must be Sold. Whole Sale Buyers Welcome. Ping Pong & Foosball Table, Michelob Tiffany Lamps, Neon Signs, Displays, Birdhouses & Chimes. 828.734.1665.

The

Haywood County Real Estate Agents

Beverly Hanks & Associates beverly-hanks.com

• Pam Braun - pbraun@beverly-hanks.com

• Pauletter Childers -paulettechilders@beverly-hanks.com

• Ann Eavenson - anneavenson@beverly-hanks.com

• George Escaravage - gescar@beverly-hanks.com

• Billie Green - BGreen@beverly-hanks.com

• Michelle McElroy - michellemcelroy@beverly-hanks.com

• Marilynn Obrig - marilynnobrig@beverly-hanks.com

• Brian K. Noland - brianknoland.com

• Anne Page - apage@beverly-hanks.com

• Brooke Parrott - brookeparrott@beverly-hanks.com

• Jerry Powell - jpowell@beverly-hanks.com

• Catherine Proben - cproben@beverly-hanks.com

• Ellen Sither - ellensither@beverly-hanks.com

• Mike Stamey - mikestamey@beverly-hanks.com

• Pamela Williams - pamelawilliams@beverly-hanks.com

ERA Sunburst Realty - sunburstrealty.com

• Amy Spivey - amyspivey.com

• Rick Boarder - sunburstrealty.com

Keller Williams Realty kellerwilliamswaynesville.com

• Julie Lapkoff - 828-273-6607

• Yvonne Kolomechuk - yvonneksells.yourkwagent.com

• The Morris Team - www.themorristeamnc.com

Lakeshore Realty

• Phyllis Robinson - lakeshore@lakejunaluska.com

Mountain Home Properties mountaindream.com

• Cindy Dubose - cdubose@mountaindream.com

McGovern Real Estate & Property Management

• Bruce McGovern - shamrock13.com

Realty World Heritage Realty realtyworldheritage.com

• Carolyn Lauter realtyworldheritage.com/realestate/viewagent/7766

• Martha Sawyer realtyworldheritage.com/realestate/viewagent/7769

RE/MAX — Mountain Realty

remax-waynesvillenc.com | remax-maggievalleync.com

• Holly Fletcher - hollyfletcher1975@gmail.com

• Judy Meyers - jameyers@charter.net

• Mieko Thomson - ncsmokies.com

• The Real Team - the-real-team.com

• Ron Breese - ronbreese.com

• Dan Womack - womackdan@aol.com

Rob Roland

rroland33@gmail.com

SuperCROSSWORD

MEDICAL

ATTENTION SMOKERS:

A PLACE FOR MOM.

swordsman

125 Utterance of amazement

126 Time of mammoths

Trails off

Rack up, as debt 129 Sense of self

Earth orbits it

“Dies —” (Latin hymn)

132 Lions, Tigers and Bears

133 Realty unit

Seasonal mall figures 135 Itty-bitty bits

1 Packs firmly

Roger of film reviews

Arches over

Various items: Abbr.

Et — (and others)

Golf’s “Champagne Tony”

Plunders

Canadian cop

Matty or Felipe of the

Makes glum

Actress Swit

Previous to

Theta lead-in

Hip home

Applied to

Scull needs

Suffix with Wyoming

Scheme anew

Often messing up 4 Lehrer’s old PBS

Shoot for, with “to”

Scarlett O’Hara’s

Bad smell

Had grub

Golfer Snead

Sweetened

Chicken cordon —

(Mass

Comic actor —

113 Makes uniform

“Oops, sorry” 115 Stubborn animals 117 Caroling tune 118 Full of energy

119 Harry Potter, for one 120 “... why — thou forsaken me?”

121 Water, in Cuba

122 Nose flaw

123 Indivisible 124 LG rival

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Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

Answers on Page 40

What’s a naturalist?

Trying to answer that question, the first source I resorted to was, of course, the Oxford English Dictionary. Therein I encountered the following clues, none of which seem unlikely:

1612 R. Carpenter — “Those blasphemous truth-opposing Heretikes, and Atheisticall naturalists.”

1825 S.T. Coleridge — “I am here speaking in the assumed character of a mere Naturalist, to whom no light of revelation had been vouchsafed.”

1859 C. Darwin — “Every naturalist knows vaguely what he means when he speaks of a species.”

1864 — “They are a small semi-educated sect of men calling themselves ‘Naturalists’, or ‘Secularists’.”

1985 — He was primarily a geneticist, statistician, mathematical theorist, and eugenist, not a naturalist or bug-hunter.

“What do you do?” people ask just to break the ice at social occasions. “I’m an expert in computer design,” I’m tempted to reply. But I have learned the hard way that it’s generally the best policy, whenever possible, to tell the truth, so I answer: “I’m a naturalist.”

There will be a pause, while he or she wonders if I operate a nudist camp. Then he or she will smile and nod and ask: “What’s a naturalist?”

“I’m not sure,” I reply.

BACK THEN

This is also true. And Darwin was right again. I would have a hard time defining species with any degree of certainty.

“Oh,” I say, making an attempt at humor, “a naturalist is someone with a magnifying lens and an L.L. Bean vest that has lots of pockets — the more pockets the better the naturalist.”

When in a more reflective mood, I respond that a naturalist is someone who delights in all aspects of the natural world.

A person who identifies himself or herself as a naturalist

usually doesn't have academic credentials in the natural sciences. My formal training on the undergraduate and graduate levels, for instance, was in language, literature and methods of research. Those long-ago studies have, by the way, stood me in good stead as a naturalist.

A naturalist is often one who collects things pertaining to the natural world… butterflies, pressed leaves or entire plants, seashells, fossils, rocks, animal skulls, butterflies, bird nests, or whatever. This species

of naturalist, which I am not, usually gets started collecting as a young person and sometimes becomes the curator of a small natural history museum. In other words, he or she likes to arrange items systematically and exhibit them.

Another species of naturalist, like yours truly, prefers to write about the natural world. We like to keep journals and lists. This second species often winds up writing a natural history column for his or her local or regional newspaper. All across this vast country, in almost every county and certainly in every region, there are at this very moment naturalists scribbling away in order to meet their weekly deadlines.

Yet another species winds up trying to teach others about natural history. They often conduct workshops for the community college serving the area in which they reside. Elderhostels are a natural haven for naturalists.

OK … let's cut to the chase. I never tell workshop participants this because I want then to figure it out for themselves. What a naturalist tries to do is get himself and others to “slow down” so as to pay closer attention to the natural world because precious time is passing away.

That’s it.

(George Ellison is a naturalist and writer. He can be reached at info@georgeellison.com.)