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September 9-15, 2026 Vol. 28 Iss. 15

Twenty-five years later — stories from New York Page 11 Jackson County nixes school bond referendum Page 17

CONTENTS On the Cover: John Williams has dedicated his life to biological anthropology — the study of how human remains decay and what stories those remains can tell. Following the most harrowing terrorist attack on United States soil on 9/11, he put those skills and experience to use helping to identify victim remains. For 25 years, he was hesitant to share his story, but now he’s shared his memories. (Page 8) Micah McClure design

News ‘Fill the Western Sky’ campaign tops $100 million....................................................4 WNC school performance scores trend up, discrepancies remain ....................5 Swain Commission considers $3 million airport purchase ....................................6 Twenty-five years later — stories from New York....................................................11 G20 leaders touted privatization; has WNC already seen the worst of it? ....12 Jackson County nixes bond referendum ....................................................................17 Education briefs..................................................................................................................21

Opinion A snapshot as 9/11 unfolded before us ....................................................................22 Letters to the Editor ....................................................................................................22-23

A&E Haywood Arts receives large private donation, will relocate to new facility ....24 Porchfest comes to Highlands ......................................................................................28

Outdoors

September 9-15, 2026

New book collects wonders of the Smokies for nature lovers ............................32 Haywood hosts fly rod restoration demonstration ..................................................35

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‘Fill the Western Sky’ campaign tops $100 million BY BILL STUDENC FOR WCU estern Carolina University (WCU) has concluded its ambitious “Fill the Western Sky” comprehensive fundraising campaign with more than $110 million in philanthropic support pouring in to benefit the institution’s academic, student engagement, and athletics programs. The record-breaking campaign began shortly after the arrival of Chancellor Kelli R. Brown in 2019 and concluded June 30 of this year. Only the third comprehensive fundraising campaign in university history, “Fill the Western Sky” is the first with a significant emphasis on garnering funds for long-awaited upgrades to facilities used by WCU student-athletes. The campaign, with an overall focus on improving the total student experience, also sought support for academic excellence initiatives and community and global engagement activities. Brown revealed the total amount raised during the campaign Friday, Aug. 28, at a gala celebration honoring donors who made contributions to the effort. The final tally — which stands at $110,883,442.69 — is more than $35 million above an initial goal of $75 million, which was later increased to $100 million, Brown said. “This campaign has supported academic excellence. It has expanded opportunities for community and global engagement. It has helped position our student-athletes for success through transformational investments in athletics facilities. Most importantly, it has created opportunities that will change lives for generations of students,” Brown said. “And let’s not lose sight of just how historic this effort has been,” she added. “When this campaign began, we set the most ambitious fundraising goal in Western Carolina University history. It was a goal rooted in confidence, optimism and belief in our future. Because of you, we not only reached that goal, but we also surpassed it.” The fundraising effort began in a quiet, or leadership, phase designed to help lay the foundation for success by building a base of major gifts of a minimum of six figures. It was during the campaign’s early days that university leaders realized they were already on the verge of meeting an initial goal of raising $75 million and decided to increase it to $100 million. Guided by a 43-member campaign steering committee, “Fill the Western Sky” entered its public phase in January 2025, postponed from October 2024 in the wake of widespread destruction across Western North Carolina spawned by flooding from Hurricane Helene. During the Aug. 28 gala celebration, campaign steering committee co-chair Teddy Phillips announced that a total of 15,234 individual donors made gifts and pledges during the campaign. Of that total, 8,564 were first-time donors, which means that more than 56% of all gifts during “Fill the Western Sky” were from supporters making their first-ever gift to WCU, fellow steering committee co-chair Randy White said. The final tally of more than $110 million comprises $62,987,690.61 in cash gifts (including $10,334,203.66 in private grants), $5,740,539.08 in pledge balances and 4 $42,155,213 in planned gifts.

Smoky Mountain News

September 9-15, 2026

As WCU’s only comprehensive campaign to prioritize support for improvements to long-in-the-tooth athletics facilities, “Fill the Western Sky” garnered nearly $30 million in gifts and pledges for the athletics program, with most of those funds designated for facilities. Current students also are playing an important role in providing resources to improve those facilities through an increase in the mandatory athletics fee they pay as part of the cost of attendance. That increase, now in effect after approval by the WCU Board of Trustees and University of North Carolina Board of Governors, will generate an estimated $30 million to supplement philanthropic gifts, said Student Government Association President Grady Jones, who commended former SGA President Rebecca Hart for her advocacy for the fee increase.

“Western Skybox,” a nod to the campaign that made improvements possible. Christened the Phillips Football Center, the four-story expansion contains nearly 10,000 square feet of space for coaching, media, and game-day operations and hospitality. The football operations area consists of 12 offices, offensive and defensive conference rooms, and multiple meeting spaces. An upgraded media center — named in honor of WCU’s legendary retired sports information director Steve White through more than $500,000 in donations from friends, colleagues, and former student-athletes — accommodates approximately 155 people and includes game day coaching booths. The new hospitality level offers a premium experience for more than 200 guests. Including the media center, the stadium expansion contains 27 spaces — coaches’ offices, video balconies, conference rooms, Gala attendees celebrate the final entry gates and atriums – named in amount raised during the ‘Fill the recognition of donors making conWestern Sky’ campaign. Donated photo tributions of $100,000 or more during the campaign. Elsewhere, a student-athlete success center located in Jordan-Phillips Fieldhouse is named after Brown and her husband Dennis in recognition of one of their many gifts to the campaign. In addition to funding for athletics facilities improvements, the campaign sought support for academic endeavors, including excellence funds and resources for community and global engagement. On the academic side of the campaign ledger, donors contributed $73,546,967.18 to enhance scholarly activities and programs, provide a more robust classroom experience, and increase extracurricular initiatives, ranging from international study opportunities to undergraduate research and from support for internships to new endowed scholarships in multiple disciplines. “I know our student-athletes are especially excited about With the successful conclusion of “Fill the Western the long-awaited improvements to our athletic facilities,” Sky,” the university has turned attention to new philanJones said. “Some of those projects have been talked about thropic priorities for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, including an for years, so it’s exciting to know they’re finally becoming a effort to raise $1.5 million for unrestricted scholarships. reality.” The initiative is designed to generate additional resources for WCU’s existing Catamount Commitment, which proJones expressed his appreciation to donors who have vides annual financial support to students from North supported him in his educational endeavors and also Carolina based on academic performance and interests. shared that he is a donor himself. Also on tap looking forward is an effort to obtain $13 “What I’ve learned during my time at Western is that million in funding for a new strength and conditioning centhis university is built by people who care enough to give ter to serve all Catamount student-athletes. The state-of-theback. Every scholarship, every renovated space and every art facility will be a central hub for strength training, condiopportunity available to students today exists because tioning, recovery, and competition preparation, serving the someone decided to invest in those who would come after more than 350 student-athletes who represent WCU. them. I wanted to be part of that tradition,” Jones said. Ben Pendry, vice chancellor for advancement, closed the “Giving back isn’t something I’m waiting to do years gala by expressing his appreciation to those who helped the from now after my career is established. It’s something I campaign shatter its fundraising goal, and sharing his optibelieve starts now. I hope that commitment only grows mism about WCU’s new philanthropic priorities. throughout my life,” he added. “Make no mistake — the passion that people feel for this Before the evening gala, many of the donors to “Fill the place, the dearest spot of all, is powerful. It is palpable. And Western Sky” gathered earlier in the day to get a first look it is profound,” Pendry said. “I hope you share my belief at perhaps the most tangible result of the fundraising that there has never been a better time to be affiliated with effort, a highly anticipated $37 million upgrade to the west the Catamount Nation. The future is bright for our beloved side stands of WCU’s aging E.J. Whitmire Stadium. New university, for the students who come here, for the opportuLED lighting, an upgraded video board and a new artificial nities offered through higher education, and for the region playing surface bring the stadium renovation total to $40 we were founded to serve.” million. For more information about the campaign, The renovations include a new press box and media cenvisit westernsky.wcu.edu. ter, coaches’ offices, and a hospitality area called the

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However, other categories of learners in Jackson, Macon and Swain disproportionately did not reach this threshold. Compared to North Carolina’s 31.6%, 18.9% of homeless Jackson County students, 19.6% in Macon, and a notable 13% in Swain scored at or above grade level. English learners were at a distinct disadvantage in Jackson and Macon — only 15.8% and 19.2% respectively achieved this benchmark. Alternatively, the achievement gap between economically disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged peers was far smaller in these three districts than all of North Carolina. Economically disadvantaged students were similarly represented in Swain and Macon as the entire state, although both districts have below-average performance scores. Black students in Macon, Jackson, and Swain counties had proficiency metrics at and sometimes far above North Carolina average, while Hispanic and Latino students fared disproportionately worse. Only 20% of American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) students were categorized as at least level 3 in Macon County, though just 10 students belonged to the AIAN group. While Haywood bested the majority of its district counterparts in nearly every category, AIAN students were the outliers, achieving profiency at a rate 4.5% below average. Career and college readiness scores 2025-26 were proportionally similar. Overall, 37.5% of N.C. test-takers reached level 4 and 5, compared to 42.7%, 29.8%, 29.8%, and 26.5% respectively in Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain Counties. Haywood learners in every single category, including Alaska Native and American Indian, met readiness targets far more often than the average North Carolina student. However, homeless students were underrepresented, with 10.2% versus the state’s 13.7%. Swain, Jackson, and Macon again had a larger percentage of economically disadvantaged students within their level four and five groups than the state overall, but homeless students were poorly represented (less than 5% in Swain County) and except for the westernmost district, so too were English learners (less than 5% in Jackson). While more slightly more male than female students (0.4%) reached career and college readiness in North Carolina, in Jackson County, female students out-represented males by 2.4%. In Swain County, that dynamic was reversed, with the proportion of female learners trailing the state by nearly 13%. Black students in every county scored at levels 4 and 5 well above state average (22%), and while only 37 tested in 2025-26 in Macon County, 48.6% were considered career and college ready. Hispanic and Latino learners in Swain and Macon counties were underrepresented within readiness groups and in Macon, the same discrepancy applied to AIAN students.

September 9-15, 2026

BY LILY LEVIN STAFF WRITER orth Carolina Department of Public Instruction on Sept. 2 released its 2025-2026 student performance reports, indicating an overall upward trend statewide and in The Smoky Mountain News coverage area. Essentially, assessments starting in third grade measure math, reading, and science ability. Students are categorized into one of four levels based on their score. If level 3 (sufficient understanding) is not met, a child does not meet the grade-level proficiency benchmark. Alternatively, a career and college readiness designation requires meeting achievement level 4 (thorough understanding) or achievement level 5 (comprehensive understanding). According to NCDPI, retests were offered first in the 2024-25 school year; grade 3 reading, grade 5 science, and grade 8 science and biology retests were added in 2025-26. The composite ACT score dictating school performance grade calculations for ACT WorkKeys was also lowered from 19 to 17 this past year. Trends among the four SMN counties — Haywood, Jackson, Macon, and Swain — were strikingly similar. All counties’ 2025-26 grade level proficiency scores were the highest of the past five years, meaning broadly, more students district-wide are meeting basic proficiency benchmarks. However, the proportion of those meeting career and college readiness for every SMN county, despite showing improvement over 2024-2025, was the second lowest in five years. This indicates each district is trending up, but compared to 2021-2024, fewer students are reaching above-average benchmarks. Notably, because various demographic categories in all four counties had double-digit populations, certain year-toyear percentages varied widely. In 2025-26, 59.2% of North Carolina students achieved grade-level proficiency, compared to 66.2% in Haywood, 50.6% in Jackson, 53.9% in Macon, and 49.3% in Swain. While at the state level, female students reached proficiency at a slightly higher rate (1.5%) than males, the opposite was true in Macon and Swain counties. The discrepancy was significant in the latter district, with grade level proficiency achieved by 46.4% of female students and 51.9% of males. Swain’s students with disabilities, despite the district’s low overall score, were proficient at state-equivalent levels. Compared to North Carolina, Haywood County’s achievement gaps among Asian, Black, white, Hispanic and Latino students were much less pronounced. Percentages of grade-level proficiency for homeless and disabled students hovered just above state average, and English-as-a-second-language learners were more heavily represented within proficiency scorers.

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WNC school performance scores trend up, discrepancies remain

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Swain Commission considers $3 million airport purchase BY LILY LEVIN STAFF WRITER wain County Manager Tommy Dills at a Sept. 1 commission meeting proposed the county purchase 67 Lakeview Drive, colloquially known as the airport property, for nearly $3 million. No tax increase would be necessary, he said, to finance the transaction. Commissioners appeared unanimously onboard with Dills’ recommendation. But the chosen route of payment — an installment contract from North Shore settlement fund interest — appears less sound given the fund’s consistently waning spending power and the prior finance officer’s failure to secure a surety bond, both of which could indicate debt servicing that risks the county’s long-term financial stability. Explaining that “no other property currently available in Swain County offers the same combination of location, relief, size, and accessibility as this property,” Dills said he didn’t opt for a bond issue because $3 million “exceeds the amount that can be prudently raised from currently available appropriations, unappropriated fund balances and non-voted bonds within a two-thirds constitutional limitation.” He went on to commend the county’s debt management practices. Recent events and figures, however, might tell a different story. Swain County has met all benchmarks on its most recent annual audits except for fiscal year 20242025, when the report wasn’t completed until July 6, 2026, well after the Oct. 31, 2025, deadline. This was marked as a “significant deficiency” in internal control over financial reporting which, while less serious than a material weakness, is, according to the audit, “important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.” That said, this tardy delivery was in part because of “early retirement of key audit staff,” a factor outside the

Pigeon Center hosts final Conversations with Storytellers event

Pigeon Community Multicultural Development Center will host the final Conversations with Storytellers event of the season at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, at the center in Waynesville. This event is particularly special because it highlights the voices of elders in the Pigeon Community, the people who have made it what it is today. The final event will feature storytellers from “Lift Every Voice” — collected oral histories and interviews from the two historic 6 Pigeon Community churches — Mount Olive

control of county officials. Completing GASB No. 101, compensated absences, was cited as a second reason. Compliance has little to do with another worrying data point within the audit — North Shore settlement status. The $52 million initial balance is restricted, its movement dependent upon two-thirds of voter approval via a ballot referendum. Former finance officer Cally Elliot, in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, moved $5 million in interest that, though unrestricted, carries its own prerequisite. The N.C. General Assembly in 2019 updated the statute governing the balance, noting that “the State Treasurer shall disburse to Swain County amounts requested by the Swain County Board of Commissioners pursuant to a majority vote of that body.” County commissioners do not appear to have expressed interest in nor voted on a $5 million transfer. Furthermore, the introduction to the original statute states that the settlement “be preserved and insulated from improvident expenditure.” The fund’s balance has hovered for years around $52 million but has lost significant purchasing power. Had it kept up with inflation, it would have over $69 million. Revenue is dependent on nonSwain County fixed state treasury Courthouse. interest rates and Harrison Keely photo general fund transfers. Although the county has no control over the former, it dictates the latter. A 2025-2026 expense and revenue report provided to The Smoky Mountain News in July also tacked on a $5 million transfer. The line item was solely labeled “Transfer from North Shore,” so it’s unclear if this was from the fund’s principal or interest. If a product of the latter, the 2024-25 and 2025-26 reports must have mistakenly documented the same transaction, since by mid-2025, interest accounted for only $656,912.

Baptist Church and Jones Temple AME Zion Church. The discussions were videotaped and featured members of Waynesville and Canton. PCMDC has also participated in videotaped Historical Society discussions. The oral history part of this project began in 2014. From a list of the Black families in the county, the project involves interviewing the oldest members. Community partners helping to preserve these materials are the Haywood County Library and Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University. Haywood is one of four counties in the western part of the state in which similar projects are underway to bring to public view the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in our society. Lin Forney came up with this idea as a tribute to the ongoing “Lift Every Voice!” oral

And if what looks like $10 million across two annual budgets was actually $5 million within a single cycle, Swain County’s deficit would be greater than previously anticipated. The alternative would mean $5 million in principal was transferred without a required referendum. The table below shows spending and revenue totals from FY 2017-2018, when Swain received the entire principal, and FY 2024-2025, the most recent audit. Since the second $5 million transfer occurred in 2025-2026, only one is listed.

Lily Levin graphic

Swain County also has two year-over-year non-general obligation debt requirements — county and school system — with 2025-26 fiscal year principal and interest payments totaling $869,658.87. Because so much money is on the line, county finance officers must obtain true accounting and faithful performance bonds to guarantee ethical behavior and protect government funds. According to UNC School of Government’s Coates and Canons blog, bonds are reviewed on the first Monday in December on an annual basis. Bond amounts range from $50,000 to $1 million, and in Swain County, the finance officer is bonded for the $1 million maximum. Typically, there are several reasons why a surety will decline to issue a bond, most related to risk calculations. Criminal history, credit history and faithfulness to financial office duties are among factors informing this decision. Coates and Canons notes, “If the bond is not properly secured or renewed, the office is considered vacant by operation of law.” That’s exactly what happened upon the adjournment of an hour-long closed session Sept. 1. Commission Chair Jay Kirkland declared the office vacant and announced the appointment of Karen Dosker as interim finance officer. The county must submit its plan to buy the airport property to the state’s Local Government Commission for approval. But even LGC authorization doesn’t guarantee a purchase, and its financing, is fiscally prudent.

history project that has been the backbone of community programs at PCMDC for several years now. Associate Director Tausha Forney will interview some of the community members at this event and discover some of the history that makes the Pigeon Community so special. Tickets are $10 for community members, $7 for seniors 65+, and $5 for students. Children 12 and under may attend free of charge. Tickets may be purchased in advance at .zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/92f97f35-fb7047a4-9099-a00dba4bdf08 or at the door of each performance. Reduced price $50/$40/$30 series passes are also available. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

For more information, visit pcmdc.org/events or call 828.452.7232. Donated photo

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Volunteers brighten up downtown Waynesville BY ALEX PERRI STAFF WRITER owntown Waynesville is looking a bit brighter this week, thanks to a group of dedicated community members who took to the streets with shovels, flower flats, and a shared pride in their town. Led by Downtown Waynesville Association (DWA) Board Chair Teresa Pennington, the initiative relied on Drake’s Landscaping as the main volunteer force, with crew members donating their time and labor to revitalize several spots across the downtown corridor.

Smoky Mountain News

The team planted fresh flower beds, trimmed back overgrown weeds, and cleaned up deteriorating sidewalk patches to make the area more welcoming for pedestrians. When Pennington noticed municipal maintenance falling behind on routine upkeep, she saw an opportunity for the community to rally together. “We just have looked at it as long as we can look at it, and we decided that it wasn’t going to get done if somebody didn’t just volunteer to do it,” Pennington said. “If you want something done, sometimes the only way to get it done is to do it yourself.” The beautification drive marks a high point during a landmark year for the DWA, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary — the same organization that brought the iconic arch back to Main Street. Pennington, who has served on the board since its founding, hopes the new flower beds bring a fresh spark of joy to daily foot traffic. “I just want to make it a prettier, more pleasant place to live and look at,” Pennington said, adding that the goal is to ensure both residents and visitors have something beautiful to enjoy as they stroll downtown.

September 9-15, 2026

From left: TJ Phillips, JP Chapman, Drake Brown, Calvin Lathan and Teresa Pennington pose alongside their worksite at the corner of Church and S. Haywood Streets (not pictured, Alex McKay and Jon Feichter). Alex Perri photo

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Exhuming the memory of 9/11 Forensic anthropologist John Williams was called to New York to help identify human remains after the attack on the World Trade Center. Twenty-five years later, he’s ready to talk about it. BY KYLE PERROTTI NEWS EDITOR ohn Williams almost chose not to do this interview, unsure whether he was ready to talk about his experience in New York City in the days after Sept. 11, 2001. The forensic anthropologist helped identify human remains for over four decades, but the two weeks he spent answering the nation’s call following the worst terrorist

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September 9-15, 2026

attack in its history remain the most challenging and important of his career. In 2003, Williams took a position at Western Carolina University, where he established the “Body Farm” to study the decomposition of human remains to help inform the work of detectives and scientists. He also co-edited a 2022 book to guide professionals and policymakers in victim identification following a disaster.

In the 25 years since the Twin Towers fell, he’s talked about his experience less and less. But the memories have never faded. Now, he’s decided it’s time to share more of his story. Williams, 73, grew up in Cleveland and received a master’s degree and doctorate in biological anthropology from Ohio State University. He wanted to become a paleontology professor before eventually shifting his focus to humans; interest in dinosaurs was experiencing a renaissance at the time. He received a one-year contract with the University of North Dakota and stayed for two decades. Just a month after taking that job, a local sheriff brought him an incomplete skull, the origins of which he couldn’t pin down. Williams was able to identify it as a “teaching skull” from an anatomical specimen. Then agencies across the country started asking him for help identifying everything from prehistoric skeletons to homicide victims. “I’ve been on a number of forensic cases over the years, from missing persons to murder investigations,” he said. “One of my specialty areas was sharp trauma, and specifically dismemberment.” Giving crime victims dignit, and their families closure felt compassionate. He also got intellectual fulfillment from helping solve delicate mysteries. A trained eye can glean a lot from a person’s skeletal remains, including their height, body type, age, biological sex, and likely their race. Williams earned certification from the American Board of Forensic Anthropology in 1995, which opened even more doors. A colleague recruited him to join the federal Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team, or DMORT, a Department of Health and Human Services program that responds to situations where there are more casualties than local resources can manage. DMORT’s 10 teams are divided by region and include coroners, funeral directors, medical examiners, and dental assistants. In April 1995, the program worked to identify victims of the bombing at the federal building in Oklahoma City. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, DMORT was called in when large cities struggled to keep up with the growing number of fatalities. Williams’ first deployment was in August 1997, after Korean Air Flight 801 crashed three miles southwest of the runway at Guam’s international airport. Of the 254 on board, 228 died; Williams spent two weeks helping identify them. When EgyptAir Flight 990 plunged into the ocean shortly after takeoff from New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport on Oct. 31, 1999, Williams was sent in again. From those first disasters, he learned that deployments are never the same. Professionals may use the same skills — skills honed with experience — but there would always be new challenges.

GETTING THE CALL Williams in front of the famous Woolworth Building, which took tremendous damage during the attack. Donated photo

Williams was in his university office in Grand Forks when the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. A colleague rushed in and told him what had happened. “My God,” Williams recalled saying, “How can that kind of accident happen?”

take his off — to the dismay of Occupational Safety and Health Administration personnel on site — so he could perform the most basic of analyses: a smell test. One time, he received what looked like a piece of skin crushed under immense weight. It was roughly the shade of tanned flesh and had small pores. “We smelled it and said, ‘This is citrus; it’s an orange peel,’” he said. Human remains were logged as evidence and passed on to the medical examiner for further evaluation. Sometimes, bones were easily identifiable, but they weren’t always so sure. They erred on the side of moving things forward to the next step of the process, where remains would be recorded

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When the second plane hit 17 minutes later, it became clear this was an attack. Williams thought the destruction would be so severe that authorities may not even try to identify victims. But about two weeks later, he received deployment orders. He arrived at Ground Zero on September 30, nervous about what horrors might await. It all felt surreal. He’d stayed in a nearby hotel two years earlier on a vacation, and those pleasant memories were shattered by a new reality. His colleagues took a photo of him in front of the famous Woolworth Building as a reference point; piles of debris skirted the 792-foot neo-Gothic landmark the towers once flanked, its windows entirely blown out.

and sent off for DNA identification. The people working at the Staten Island landfill often felt forgotten compared to other first responders. Even visits from mental health professionals were rare. Burnout became a problem. The work was difficult, tedious, and emotionally taxing. Even during lulls when new specimens weren’t coming in, they didn’t rest. Williams and other forensic experts would help sort through rubble, which brought a degree of reassurance about how attentive the workers who dug all day had to be. After standing shoulder to shoulder with them, he believed they didn’t miss a thing. “We worked with pretty much the same people over that two-week period,” he said. “There were some rotating in and out, but pretty much it was all NYPD. We got to know them quite well.” During their few hours of free time, Williams found solace in the company of his peers in the forensic anthropology community. After a long day, they would “go to a restaurant, sit, and just talk about anything but what we did that day.” Williams felt fortunate to serve alongside a close friend who had also been with him in Guam. “When you know someone well enough, if you see them not responding well, you

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Flyers featuring the faces of the missing lined the streets, posted by families desperate for any sign their loved ones might still be alive. The emotional toll on survivors weighed heaviest on him. That was the only time Williams would see Ground Zero. For the next 13 days, he worked 12-hour shifts at a landfill on Staten Island that became a sorting ground for all the World Trade Center debris. Fresh Kills had been the world’s largest landfill before it closed in March 2001 after five decades of operation. The New York City Police Department reopened it in the wake of the attack to process 1.6 million short tons of material. Thousands of detectives and forensic specialists worked 1.7 million manhours, recovering 4,257 individual bones from the 2,753 victims. Whenever workers found a possible specimen, they would bring it to the forensic anthropologists for analysis. Williams said they received “all manner” of objects. Among the most common were nonhuman bones — detritus from dozens of restaurants and breakrooms that came down with the towers. Some things were more surprising, like when detectives brought in what they thought was part of a finger but was really a bone-shaped novelty pen. They wore Tyvek suits to prevent contamination, and masks to mitigate exposure to carcinogens. But Williams would often

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John Williams now lives in Haywood County. Kyle Perrotti photo

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WILLIAMS, CONTINUED FROM 9 know you can take the right steps,” he said. On their last day of the deployment, mental health experts offered to speak with any DMORT member who wanted to talk. After a debriefing with incident command, Williams and his friend drove to a hotel near the airport. Williams then set off on his own, stopping at a deli and visiting a large specialty shop for model trains. “I didn’t buy anything, but it was fun to just go in the store,” he said. “It sounds weird, but I just wanted to do something normal.” The next day, Williams and his colleagues were relieved by a fresh DMORT squad.

way to get past what he’d seen. For good or ill, he said he “divorced” himself from that experience quickly. He has since avoided anything that depicts the September 11 attacks or their aftermath. “I had a job to do, and I did it,” he said flatly. In 2003, Williams took a position at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, where in 2007 he founded the Forensic Osteology Research Station, or FOREST. Many know it as a “Body Farm,” a moniker he has never been comfortable with. WCU’s 5,000-square-foot research area is one of just seven worldwide that studies donated human corpses. Williams said FOREST has helped “further understanding of human decomposi-

er concern, a fear shared by many first responders: What if he happened upon the remains of someone he knew? “You always feel that you should have been there,” he said. “But in this case, I’m very comfortable with my decision to stay here.” Williams doubts he’ll deploy with DMORT again. He doesn’t know that he could handle the physical strain, let alone the mental and emotional toll. But he still sometimes works as an assessor, someone who goes out into the field post-disaster to determine what resources are needed. His feelings about his work after 9/11 have grown more complex with time. Now, reflection inspires an uneasy pride, and he sees his role after an attack that rattled the

Williams (second from left) had to wear a Tyvek suit during his 12-hour shifts.

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September 9-15, 2026

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‘IT WAS STILL VERY FRESH’ Back home, Williams’ wife asked if he wanted to talk about his experience. He obliged. For a while, he could get through conversations with the many people who were curious. He’d been the only person from North Dakota deployed to New York with DMORT, so local TV stations, radio shows, and even the university newspaper wanted to talk to him. Those conversations were cathartic at first, but soon he began to struggle to relay his experience. “Initially, it was still very fresh,” he said. “But years went on and it’s like you could tell this really wasn’t something that they understood.” There was always one exception. Every year on Sept. 11, he’d discuss the details with his students. It was both relevant professional experience and a perspective on the event he believed younger generations should hear. Williams returned to teaching just days after getting back to North Dakota. Occupying his mind seemed like the best

tion” through its observations, and added that it has also helped increase the visibility of the field. Williams also chaired the American Academy of Forensic Sciences’ Disaster Victim Identification Consensus Body from 2016 to 2024, which established the first set of best practices for the discipline, such as how to process DNA and fingerprints. Williams retired on July 30, 2020, at a time when mass casualty incidents — from natural disasters to mass shootings — have made the research even more crucial. “I thought that we had reached saturation in my field, and I was totally wrong,” Williams said. “Agencies now all over the country are hiring forensic anthropologists. A few years ago, we never even thought of doing that.” He was called upon to work with a DMORT team again when Tropical Storm Helene devastated Western North Carolina in 2024, but he declined. He wasn’t directly affected, but his daughter in Asheville lost power and water, and he wanted to be there to help her. But there was also anoth-

nation as something that must be documented. It may not sound like he did a lot to outside observers, he said. But that work helped overwhelmed first responders and brought closure to thousands of grieving families. “It’s been 25 years, and very few people know who was involved,” he said. “If I don’t say something now, it’ll just pass, and with it, everything that needs to be known.” And while there’s little room for nostalgia in tragedy, he recalled one example. While walking through the remnants of death and destruction at Fresh Kills one day, he encountered an unexpected sign of life. A small patch of sunflowers had sprouted. Sure to soon die in the hostile habitat, they nonetheless reached toward the heavens. This story was also published in The Assembly, available online at theassemblync.com. Founded in 2021, The Assembly is a digital magazine featuring deeply reported, nuanced stories about the people, institutions and ideas that shape North Carolina.

Twenty-five years later — stories from New York I

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DR. J. SCOTT HINKLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER t’s been 25 years but feels like not long ago at all. The late Dr. Sam Gladding and I were asked by the Disaster Mental Health section of the American Red Cross to help develop the death certificate process in New York City right after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. This process was necessary because a death certificate is typically not provided without a body. No death certificate means no insurance benefits or other monies for the families of the deceased. At the pile, to become known as “Ground Zero,” there were no bodies. Office furniture, drywall, computers, and people were mixed with an avalanche of concrete and steel from 10 million square feet of vertical office space — a 110-story skyscraper and its identical twin — a scene of total and absolute destruction.

September 9-15, 2026

animals left over from their traumatic had little means of connecting with event. We handed out teddy bears as other helpers and authorities. There they boarded and talked to family were constant rumors of more attacks, members as we went down to the pile. particularly from highjacked planes When the families approached via a from overseas. plywood walkway, it became deadly We set up a family assistance center silent; the first responders stopped (FAC) at Pier 93 on the Hudson River. working, faced the families, and held Sam and I processed 1,013 families their helmets over their hearts. and trained other mental health workThere will always be an anniverers to complete our work once we left. sary. Six months, one year, five years, Several stories are burned into my 25 years. Today, I’m thinking about synapses. Twenty-five years later a few the 3,000 children who lost a parent stand out. I’m not sure why — they on Sept. 11, 2001, and the over 100 just do. children who never saw their fathers. The New York Police Department Dr. J. Scott Hinkle is a Licensed assigned officers to assist us. The one I Psychologist who has lived in Haywood worked closest with had an arm in a County for 15 years. He received his sling and bandages on his neck and Ph.D. 40 years ago from Florida State head. He shared that he was hit by University. After working as a college body shrapnel from people jumping professor for 15 years, he was an internafrom the towers. The jumpers’ alternational mental health trainer in Asia, tive was to be combusted by 2,500Africa, and Europe for 20 years. He has degree heat and ultimately pulverized presented at conferences worldwide or jump. including in Bhutan, Australia, and One morning, two sisters Argentina. In collaboration with the approached the death certificate area Scott Hinkle did some of the most valuable work following Mercy Corps, he trained Lebanese theraof the FAC. They had lost their husthe Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Donated photo pists in Jordan to work in bands, each working in a different Middle Eastern refugee centers. He was tower. One sister was pregnant but did Ground Zero. We took 30 people twice a day contacted by the American Red Cross to help not want to be; the other was not pregnant to leave a note or card, lay flowers, and to manage the Family Assistance Center at Pier 93 and wished so much that she had been. This say goodbye right where their loved one in NYC on September 12, 2001. type of contrasting trauma among the died. Oklahoma City sent us crates of stuffed bereaved was observed over and over. Another situation included a woman, a wife and mother, who lost her husband and her only child, a son. She lost her entire family to a weaponized passenger jet. A wife in her mid-30s had been crying for days, her face swollen and broadcasting a lack of sleep. She entered with an infant in her arms. My typical first response was, “Tell me, who did you lose?” Her husband worked at the top of Tower 2. I remember we shared a cup of coffee, and I connected her with resources and services. A mother had flown 15 hours from Korea because her son who worked in a restaurant in one of the towers was missing and not responding to messages. When she got to the death certificate area she simply passed out. We placed her in a wheelchair and processed her son’s death certificate when she awakened. The State of New York released attorneys to report to our center and assist with the death certificate procedures. Each family member had to bring in DNA as part of the evidence. Underwear, hair brushes, and toothbrushes were most effective. We placed these items in zip-lock bags with identifying information and assigned the family to one of 140 attorneys working with us from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. I was alerted to one lawyer who was in the bathroom crying. I went in and saw him leaning over a sink. When I patted him on the back, he lost it. I wetted some paper towels, wiped his face, and told him we appreciated his help, but this work was not for everyone. I sent him home. The City of New York arranged for a Navy gunner boat to take families down to 11

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In addition to the constant loop of Ground Zero shown on CNN and the continuous smoke that lasted until December of that year, numerous peripheral buildings were destroyed or damaged, including the 48-story Building 7. Sam and I flew to New York City on Sept. 14, just the two of us on a DC-9 to LaGuardia, flown gratis by U.S. Airways. We also were the only two people in the terminal and the only ones on the road en route to headquarters in Brooklyn. Late each night, after 16-hour days, we walked through an empty, dark Times Square. All the shops and restaurants were closed, sidewalks and streets empty. I remember peering into a souvenir shop with postcards depicting the World Trade Center, enormous skyscrapers that no longer existed — in 102 minutes they were no more. Communication was difficult. Blackberries worked, but those new things called cell phones did not. It was frightening for lots of people because no one seemed to be in charge and those of us taking charge

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G20 leaders touted privatization; has WNC already seen the worst of it? BY LILY LEVIN STAFF WRITER sheville made international headlines last week when its Omni Grove Park Inn hosted the Group of 20 finance track summit. The summit is an annual global forum aimed at securing financial stability and consensus. It consists of delegates from 20 nations representing roughly 85% of the world’s population. Leadership is designated by country on a rotating annual basis, and the United States, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as finance track leader, chose Asheville in part for what it represents to senior officials nearly two years after Hurricane Helene devastated the region.

ernment representatives, this year’s G20 summit brought in private executives to talk about deregulation for the sake of corporate interests. “We solicited inputs for the first time ever from the private sector to better understand how our efforts can reinforce theirs for the first time in G20 history. Business leaders joined ministers and central bank governors to discuss the practical barriers they encounter as they invest, innovate, and grow,” Bessent said during a Sept. 1 press conference. However, some residents had a different opinion of Asheville’s recovery, insisting that residents’ livelihood in any place is hampered by growth and privatization. It is

unsheltered population was 1.5 times that of pre-hurricane counts. And by late March, about 130 individuals were still experiencing homelessness due to the storm. Furthermore, Helene’s destruction extended far beyond Buncombe — and Boyd said in surrounding areas, that reality is even more visible. “I went up to Marshall a few days ago to shoot some photos for a video that we at the Alignment Table produced, and it was just devastating to see that beautiful place still so scarred,” she recounted. Two WNC sectors have rebounded, according to G20 metrics. Both have drawn public scrutiny for internal practices to varying degrees.

care and that profiting from a public service underlies the problem. Before its sale in 2019, Mission was a nonprofit health provider commended for patient satisfaction and outcomes. “When [HCA] bought the hospital, they cut almost every non-billable service,” said National Patients Union Chief Organizer Kait Ziegler last Sunday at an Alignment Tableorganized memorial space honoring ongoing post-Helene loss. NPU was one of numerous organizations tabling while performers took the Pack Square Park stage to sing, commemorate, and mourn. Widespread staffing cuts, deficient sanitization practices, delays in isolating infectious disease patients and preventable patient deaths have been some of the most egregious violations, prompting four Immediate Jeopardy warnings from Federal Medicare and Medicaid services in the past five years, according to Asheville Watchdog. Immediate Jeopardy is the most severe deficiency handed down by the Center for Medicaid Services, indicating noncompliance to the level of

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September 9-15, 2026

Organizers staged a memorial space in response to G20. Lily Levin photo

“With its local inspiration leading to global innovation, Asheville stands as a hub for corporate innovation and growth, making it ideal for a G20 focused on driving economic growth and prosperity,” the G20 website stated. President Trump’s administration during the G20 looked chiefly to the Western North Carolina city’s entrepreneurial outlook as proof it had made what one senior Treasury official called a “comeback.” For what had previously been conversations among gov-

instead dependent upon how a community takes care of its people, they said. “The truth is that Asheville has struggled to its knees,” said Leslie Boyd, a Poor People’s Campaign organizer who helped plan protest events last weekend as part of a local advocacy coalition called WNC Alignment Table. “To say that ‘Hey, Asheville has recovered’ is a lie, and they know it’s a lie,” she said. After Helene, Buncombe County’s

The first is perhaps as notorious as it is profitable. Mission Hospital in Buncombe County is an asset of for-profit HCA Healthcare, as of 2023 raking in the second highest patient revenues of any subsidiary hospital. Though Mission did sustain Helene-related damages, HCA in the wake of the storm yielded $1.27 billion in net Quarter 3 income, compared to $1.699 billion for Q2 2026, an increase of $429,000. HCA has faced numerous accusations that it prioritizes the bottom line over quality of

patient endangerment. In recent years, Immediate Jeopardy has gotten more common, reaching a peak 8.2% in 2023 before falling to 5.5% by 2025. Nonetheless, it’s unlikely for a hospital to receive such a finding, let along multiple. In the case of Mission, Boyd had a personal horror story to tell. “I have a very dear friend who had a stroke, and she went to Mission, and she said, ‘I’m having a stroke,’ and they took a wait-and-see attitude,

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Public Radio. But the N.C. Restaurant and and now she’s permanently disabled,” she Lodging Association in a letter to Charlotte said. City Council cautioned that using tourism Ziegler said regardless, people here don’t dollars to fund affordable housing efforts blame healthcare professionals for Mission’s could lead to a lawsuit. In the letter, NCRLA downfall. also described Buncombe LIFT funding lan“I have never in my life, as an organizer, guage as “manipulated and misinterpreted.” ever been to a place where in a town this Board members did not select either project, large, every person knows the villain. Every Mountain Xpress reported. person knows the year that the hospital was A new state law, however, has eliminated bought by a corporation,” she said. that ambiguity, prohibiting occupancy tax HCA’s history is further marred by a disfrom going toward solid waste, water supply, graced former healthcare executive who then fire protection, law enforcement and emerventured into a profession adjacent to the gency services, affordable housing or educaG20 realm. Before he was a senator, Rick tion unless already authorized by a local proScott was CEO of then-Columbia/HCA. The vision. This means that Explore Asheville can corporation throughout his tenure engaged in systematic over-billing and false claim sub- invest in the community through LIFT grantmaking to both government entities and mission, leading to the largest hospital cornonprofits, but the projects it funds cannot poration healthcare fraud settlement in U.S. address certain issues faced by residents, history. In Asheville, the tourism industry has also including travel and hospitality industry workers, whose post-Helene recovery Isley seen a post-Helene rebound. The Buncombe called “uneven.” County Tourism “Not everyone is Development “I have a very dear friend on the same path at Authority and its the same time,” she designated managewho had a stroke, and explained. ment organization, she went to Mission, and Likewise, Boyd Explore Asheville, said tourism awards together form a pubshe said, ‘I’m having a power unevenly to lic-private partnervisitors, employees, ship like what stroke,’ and they took a and business manageBessent promoted at wait-and-see attitude, and ment, creating a the forum. According dynamic that can to Explore Asheville now she’s permanently range from dehumanCEO Vic Isley, before izing to dangerous. Helene, travel and disabled.” Many service workers hospitality brought — Leslie Boyd, are reliant on tips in about $3 billion — Poor People’s Campaign because they aren’t around 20% of the paid a minimum local economy. Most wage. recent annual data “I have friends who are service workers indicated in 2025 that figure was about $2.6 who were told (during COVID) ‘You take off billion. your mask and smile at me, or you’re not get“We haven’t fully recovered, but we’ve made great progress, and we’re determined to ting a tip,’” she recounted. Boyd also questioned what tourism via continue on that path to not only reboundG20 would bring to the region. ing, but propelling forward for our area resi“They’re going to buy expensive meals, dents and economy,” she said. “By the end of play a few rounds of golf, you know, funnel this month, we will we have around $12 million available to award to tourism-related cap- some money into the into the Grove Park Inn, and they’re probably not even going to ital projects that will help in renovation, venture into downtown,” she said. restoration, and rehabilitation.” Alternatively, Isley saw G20 visitor spendTDAs and their management organizaing as a net positive, noting that it contions are mandated by state law to spend no tributed to paychecks both within the Omni less than two-thirds of money collected from Grove Park Inn and beyond. Because some occupancy taxes on marketing and the rest delegations were staying at other properties, on tourism-related expenditures like capital transportation companies were needed. projects. Destination management and decorating But what is considered “tourism-related” businesses were also hired. has been routinely contested in Western Early TDA estimates of G20 total ecoNorth Carolina. A 2022 law modifying Buncombe occupancy tax usage — amid con- nomic input hovered at $2 million. “But that (estimate) has ballooned since troversy about Isley’s salary (up to $578,000), the TDA’s marketing expenditures ($18.4 mil- then because of the growing number of attendees and the and the impact of the event,” lion), and overall city impacts — established Isley added. the Legacy Investment From Tourism Fund, It’s unclear, at least until Explore which manages the $12 million Isley menAsheville publishes its post-event analysis, if tioned. the actual number is anywhere near the Some locals called for LIFT funding to be devoted to affordable housing, citing tourism Trump administration’s $20 million spending prediction. Though 1,000% of initial as one cause of inflated rental costs that have assessments, an additional $20 million doespriced many hospitality workers out of the n’t bring Asheville — nor Western North area. Contenders for the first 2024 funding round included two affordable housingSEE G-20, PAGE 15 aligned projects, according to Blue Ridge

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Carolina, for that matter — much closer to total estimated recovery costs. The federal government has reimbursed only 16.4% of the $59.6 billion in Helene damages per the state’s WNC recovery portal. A senior treasury official on a G20 background call, when asked about Trump’s commitment to WNC revitalization, mentioned the president’s authorization of more than $5 billion in cumulative post-storm federal funding — and the work taken on by corporate financers. Private capital, she said, has invested $29 billion in North Carolina since the start of 2025, creating 42,000 jobs. Bessent, when asked how the Trump administration is helping small business owners and farmers impacted by Helene, similarly said the G20 wasn’t a forum to discuss that topic, but that industry — for example, “large soybean purchases” from China and a new John Deere factory “reshoring” in the state — would surely help. Taken together, those two treasury statements paint a picture of what the administration might increasingly prioritize following similar disasters: corporate interests and privatization.

mate and what is happening to the environaims to do with said recission, could ment is connected to healthcare,” she said, increase wildfire frequency and impact. explaining that health outcomes are influAs for energy, the United States is pushenced by where and how we live — the qualing for “dominance,” and it “has never ity of our shelter, air, looked better,” said and sustenance. Bessent. The White “It’s not big governments, Thanks to conHouse’s website it’s not big companies, it’s gressional passage of describes this domithe president’s One nance as “historic not big elected officials Big Beautiful Bill, as deregulation,” these environmental “[opening] hundreds who are coming to save conditions grow of millions of acres communities. It is grassmore precarious, for oil, gas, and coal 11.8 million people production,” and roots organizing that is nationwide are “revitalizing beautidoing it.” expected to lose ful, clean coal.” Coal, marketplace coveroil and gas, the main — Kate Ziegler, National Patients age, the American drivers of climate Union Chief Organizer Medical Association change, constitute reported. 90% of global carbon “We were out on dioxide emissions. Merrimon Avenue today for — what was it? United Nations scientists on Sept. 2 — three hours, and man, almost every car warned Earth is reaching a climate “overwas beeping,” Boyd said of the alignment shoot” phase in which within several years, table’s Saturday protest. “As politicians allow temperatures will unavoidably exceed the worse and worse things to happen, people 1.5-degree Celsius target named in the 2015 are becoming more and more aware that this Paris Agreement. Climate change was not mentioned at the is not how we’re supposed to be living.” Luckily, Ziegler noted, there are other summit, although Asheville reached a record

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Scott Bessent at the G20 forum. Lily Levin photo

Boyd made it clear that recovery looks like infrastructure. Bridges and roads. Stream banks and flow. Not big business and venture capitalism. Meanwhile, Trump’s industry-forward fossil fuel deregulations and environmental protection rollbacks could increase the frequency and magnitude of climate-related disasters. The U.S. Forest Service’s 2001 Roadless Rule recission draft environmental impact statement admits roadbuilding in “designated wilderness,” which the agency

high of 92 degrees on Sept. 2, just after officials departed. Even during Bessent’s press conference, the sweltering heat was impossible to ignore. Still, it was a “beautiful day,” he noted during his remarks. Past him, in the distance, Asheville hotels and skyscrapers rose above the surrounding trees, set by the silhouette of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ziegler at the memorial space contextualized the problem through a systemic lens. “I think we’re seeing one that both cli-

places to turn. There’s a common refrain across Latin America — Solo el Pueblo Salva El Pueblo — which organizers sang onstage last Sunday. In English, it means, “only the people can save the people.” “It’s not big governments, it’s not big companies, it’s not big elected officials who are coming to save communities,” Ziegler said. “It is grassroots organizing that is doing it.”

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BY ALEX PERRI STAFF WRITER ackson County Commissioners voted 4-1 to shoot down a $105 million school bond referendum at their Sept. 1 meeting, leaving Jackson County Public Schools in the lurch for funding millions of dollars of capital improvement projects across the district. The county now faces tough decisions on what projects to cut or significantly scale back, and commissioners are facing a tight timeline to make use of the $52 million dollar grant awarded by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction in October 2024 to build a new middle school. The county must break ground on the middle school by September 2027 or forfeit funding. A forfeiture would trigger a two-year pause on any additional NCDPI grants to the county, which would only compound financial challenges as construction costs continue to rise. As of September 2026, steel prices are inflating at an average rate of 2-4% per month.

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Jackson County kills bond referendum Lynn Hooper and Michael Jennings in opposition. The Smoky Mountain News reached out Bryson and Smith for comment on their decision to flip. Smith did not respond to SMN requests and Bryson said he did not have time to comment before deadline due to a family matter. “I’m really puzzled by the outcome,” said JCPS Superintendent Daya Ayers. “I felt like in the last few meetings that there has been support for moving forward with this from three commissioners, so it is a huge disappointment that we landed with the fact that voters won’t be able to make that decision in November.” About two dozen JCPS administrators, faculty, and staff attended the meeting. Ayers said many left feeling disappointment, frustration, anger, and like the needs of the school system are not being adequately prioritized. Hooper has remained steadfast in her opposition to the bond referendum throughout the process and said the 5.26% property

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Truck Pull • Bingo Concerned residents packed into the Jackson County Board of Commissioners meeting room for the Sept. 1 public hearing on the proposed $105 million general obligation school bond. Alex Perri photo

tax increase (up 0.4% from initial estimates of a 4.86%) was too big a burden on taxpayers who are already struggling with high costs of living. “Even if we do have a low tax rate, [taxpayers] are not used to that,” Hooper said. “They just had the largest tax increase on the land reevaluation. I just don’t think they need another one right now.” She also said she doesn’t support putting the bond referendum before voters because she believes voters wouldn’t understand what they are voting for. As previously reported, the $105 million would be spread out among Smoky Mountain High School, Blue Ridge School, the proposed Smoky Mountain Middle

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“I feel like we’re never going to have this opportunity again where we can set our schools in a better place moving forward,” Chairman Mark Letson said as he made a motion to approve putting the general obligation bonds on the ballot. Tuesday’s vote came as a surprise to many, as it was the last step in the monthslong application process the county has undergone to gain approval for the general obligation bond from the Local Government Commission. Having previously been among a 3-2 majority in favor of placing the bond referendum on the ballot, Letson became the lone school bond referendum supporter at the meeting after Commissioners Todd Bryson and John Smith joined Commissioners Jenny

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up” like is the case in Jackson County. Ayers also made clear that the middle school property purchase was not the School and the Jackson County responsibility of the school system or its Transportation Department for high-priority board — that authority belongs to the councapital improvement projects. ty commissioners and the county manager. The bond referendum also allocated She believes county leaders did substantial around $18 million for high-need maintelegwork before settling on the site but were nance and renovation projects across the constrained by geography. county’s nine public schools. “They were pulling GIS records and they Much of the opposition to the referenwere looking, so I don’t think that dum centered on the projected $108.6 they didn’t do their job,” Ayers said. million Smoky Mountain Middle “I believe that they investigated a lot School project. Commissioners of areas, but we also have to consider Hooper and Bryson raised several conwe live in the mountains, and we’re cerns about the budget, which has balnot going to find a flat piece of land looned from original estimates of $60 like there is in, say, Hyde County on million in the last two years. Bryson the coast of North Carolina. Even placed much of the blame on Pinnacle some of our neighboring counties, Architecture, the firm contracted for Macon and Haywood County, have the project. some really good locations of flat “Tonight, I’m putting Pinnacle on property, and it’s generally not the notice to get us what we want because case in Jackson County.” they work for Jackson County,” According to King, the $108 milBryson said. “We’re paying them. If lion included full tennis courts, a they can’t, then I guess we need to track, football and soccer fields, softlook at others.” ball and baseball fields, fencing, and Hooper frequently expressed frusadditional infrastructure. Initial estitration with the budget inflating and mates to scrap those athletic facilities said she thought the bond process has and replace them with a large grass been rushed, in part because the midfield came in around $78 million. dle school budget has not been finalKing said the county is moving forized. ward with those scaled-back plans folCounty Manager Kevin King said JCPS Superintendent Dana Ayers stands in the hallway that’s currently serving as the kitchen for Blue Ridge lowing the Sept. 1 vote. He noted that the county only has an estimated budget for the middle school project School. Blue Ridge School would have received $15 million had the bond referendum passed. Alex Perri Photo there could be an option for future boards to phase in athletic field projbecause the final cost will not be ects over a longer period. determined until it completes Much of the capital the formal bidding process and improvement work the bond commissioners award a conreferendum sought to address tract. falls into that same pattern. Much of the uncertainty surWith the school bond, county rounding the projected costs commissioners sought to comes from how much site work bundle several long-delayed will cost, but that question capital projects into one packshould be answered by midage, aiming to address needs November, according to King. that had repeatedly been put Since $60 million is the on the back burner before the county’s should be able to as well. The school board has said a traditional amount allocated ($52 million of which deadline to place the bond on the ballot ran However, Ayers said those schools were middle school provides better opportunities comes from the DPI grant and $8 million of for advanced coursework, better support for built on existing county land, and the build- out. which comes from county funds), that was “Of course, it would be nice to say we ing sites did not require the same amount of students with disabilities, access to career what contractors were asked to work with, have no budget,” King said. “We build what site preparation as the middle school propand technical classes, access to more arts but those original estimates came in before erty. She said the Swain County project does we need. What the kids need. What the programming, and better opportunities for the county finalized a site. school needs and don’t look back. And I not include athletic fields and is a replaceteacher collaboration. At the meeting, commissioners also think that’s kind of where Before the Sept. 1 meeting, Bryson asked ment for an existing middle school, rather expressed concerns about building on the 58than one being built “fresh from the ground [Pinnacle and the county] have acre middle school site, despite having unani- King to gather information about middle

September 9-15, 2026

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JACKSON BOND, CONTINUED FROM 17

mously approved its $5.8 million purchase in April 2025 following a year-long selection process. Jennings and Hooper have also stated that they don’t think the county needs a standalone middle school. Jennings has previously said he believes the county’s five Pre K-eighth grade schools support better learning outcomes for middle grade students and make better financial sense.

school construction projects in surrounding counties. He found that Swain County has budgeted $48 million for their new middle school project, which will be 100,000 square feet and fit around 650 students, and Graham County has budgeted $38 million for a 108,000 square-foot elementary school, which broke ground on July 1. Commissioners said if neighboring counties can build for less, Jackson County

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The fate of the Jackson County bus garage is in question as school administrators say the building needs to be replaced soon, but if replacement isn’t on the table in the near future, at the very least, it needs a new roof as soon as possible. Alex Perri Photo

September 9-15, 2026 Smoky Mountain News

been. And this process is kind of saying, Smoky Mountain High School also faces ‘Hey, we don’t have an unlimited budget. uncertainty. The county has allocated $2.6 This may have to be a phased approach.’” million to the school for facilities upgrades; Bryson echoed that sentiment at the construction on renovations to SMH’s track meeting, saying commissioners were ultiand field facilities and a new ADA accessible mately to blame for the vote’s failure ramp at the stadium have already begun. The because it packaged all of these projects into bond would have allocated an additional a single bond referendum rather than tak$8.3 million for additional school renovaing a phased approach from the start. tions, a track restroom building, and a Ayers emphasized that the school system replacement field house. has had a running capital priority list for For now, the county is left to sort through years, but that commissioners wanted to those competing needs without the funding tackle everything at mechanism it spent once. months working “Of course, it would be “I’m not blaming toward. Bryson said nice to say we have no anyone,” she said. he still sees the $33 “I’m just saying we already combudget. We build what we million were talking about mitted to JCPS capiwhat was best for need. What the kids need. tal projects as real kids, but all along, progress, even withWhat the school needs the school system out the bond. has had a capital pri“That’s $33 miland don’t look back. And I ority list.” lion that we’ve spent think that’s kind of where One big question on schools. I think mark following the that’s pretty darn [Pinnacle and the county] meeting is the good for our county. Jackson County bus I’m proud of it,” have been. And this garage project. Ayers Bryson said. “I just process is kind of saying, has said this is a feel like the next need, not a want, board, you all can hey, we don’t have an and if commissiontake this phased ers don’t find the approach. I think you unlimited budget. This money for a new bus guys want to see all may have to be a phased garage soon, at the this stuff done and very least, the builddo this at a phased approach.” ing needs a new approach.” — Kevin King, Jackson County Manager roof. Ayers wanted to Bond proponents make clear that the were hoping the refdistrict isn’t simply erendum would prevent the county from asking for more than it needs. having to place a new roof on the 1950s-era She pointed to three separate grant applibuilding that itself needs to be replaced, as cations the school system submitted, in three transportation staff cannot efficiently servdifferent funding cycles, to renovate Blue ice the taller, longer school busses that Ridge School and Fairview Elementary and make up the county’s modern fleet. to upgrade the Smoky Mountain High track. Blue Ridge School renovations are also All three were denied. up in the air. The county has already allocat“We want things that are going to be adeed $15 million to build a new kitchen and quate and appropriate to educate our stucafeteria, but the bond would have allocated dents because it’s about them,” she said. “For an additional $23.8 million to knock out those who think we haven’t been trying to do several other items on the school’s wish list something with the facilities we already have which included a new gymnasium, outdoor — three times, that grant was submitted, sports facilities, and a two-story classroom and three times, that grant was not awardwing. ed.”

Smoky Mountain News September 9-15, 2026

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Education

Smoky Mountain News

WCU’s Pride of the Mountains headed to London for New Year’s Day Parade From the mountains of Western North Carolina to the Pride of the Mountains begins its 2026 season with a new streets of London, the “Baddest Band in the Land” is production titled “kNOW where.” The show explores the preparing for its next international performance. ideas of knowing where you are headed while embracing Western Carolina University’s Pride of the Mountains the uncertainty that accompanies new opportunities and Marching Band has accepted an invitation to perform in experiences. the London New Year’s Day Parade on Jan. 1, 2028, markOver the next two seasons, members of the Pride of the ing another major milestone for one of the nation’s premier Mountains will prepare for the journey to London while concollegiate marching bands. The invitation places WCU on tinuing to perform throughout the region and across the one of the world’s most visible parade stages and contincountry. The band’s 2026 season will culminate with an ues a tradition of national and international excellence for appearance at the Bands of America Grand National the Pride of the Mountains. Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, one of the premier The Pride of the Mountains has represented WCU at competitions for marching bands. some of the most prestigious events in marching band hisFor many students, the performance in London will reptory, including the Tournament of Roses Parade in resent years of preparation and dedication while providing Pasadena, California; two Macy’s Thanksgiving Day an opportunity to serve as ambassadors for the university Parades in New York City; the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in and WNC before an international audience. The Pride of the Mountains has represented WCU at some of the Dublin, Ireland; and the Bands of America Grand National The London New Year’s Day Parade is one of the world’s most prestigious events in marching band history. Donated photo Championships. The band also received the Sudler Trophy largest New Year’s celebrations, featuring marching bands, in 2009, one of the highest honors awarded to collegiate performers, and cultural groups from around the globe. The marching bands. 2028 event is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators along the parade route and reach millions The London appearance will continue the band’s commitment to providing transformative educational and more through broadcast and digital coverage. performance opportunities while showcasing WCU on an international stage. The announcement comes as the For more information about how you can support the band’s trip to London, visit go.wcu.edu/londoninterest.

HCC Foundation hosts ‘Campus Connections’ The Haywood Community College Foundation is hosting “Campus Connections” this academic year to showcase programs to the community. Similar to a program open house, these events will offer attendees the opportunity to meet instructors and students in a small group setting. Offered at different times throughout the year, each event will showcase the learning technologies of the program to highlight the real-world experience students gain in the classroom that are transferable skills into their next career step. The upcoming events include: • 11:30 a.m. Sept. 16, in the Natural Resources in the Walnut building — The Natural Resources Program features two main degree options — Fish & Wildlife and Forestry Technology. We invite you to learn about these paths, see the lab spaces, and learn about the amazing field trip opportunities provided to students allowing them to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it out in the field. • 11 a.m. Oct. 29, in the Cosmetology in the Chestnut building. The Cosmetology program not only teaches technique but provides a learning lab space for students to gain real-world experience in application and customer service. This October event also allows guests to see the decorated manikins, showcasing talent in hair design, color, makeup and more. RSVP at haywood.edu/foundation/campus-connections.php.

SCC accepting submissions for ‘Milestone’ Submissions are being accepted for the 16th edition of the “Milestone,” the biennial art and literary review published by Southwestern Community College (SCC). ”Milestone” showcases the creative expressions of local writers and visual artists. The periodical is representative of the abundance of talent in the region and seeks to foster creative potential by providing artists an opportunity to gain public awareness. All residents of Jackson, Macon, Swain counties and the Qualla Boundary, as well as SCC students and alumni, are eligible. Only

unpublished work may be submitted. Prose should not exceed 2,000 words, and poems should be limited to two pages in length. Each writer may submit up to five poems and up to two stories. All prose must be double-spaced and submitted in paper format or via email. In addition, each page must be numbered, and the author’s name, address, telephone number, and email address should be included by itself on the last page of each submission. Visual artists and photographers may submit only black-andwhite copies of original artwork. Visual arts may include black-andwhite artwork in pencil, pen, ink, watercolor, digital art, and/or black-and-white photography. Submissions for visual arts must also include name, address, telephone number, email address, title of work, and photo caption (if applicable) on the back of each submission. Artists and photographers may also submit more than one work. First- and second-place cash prizes will be awarded in three categories: poetry, prose (short story or nonfiction works), and visual arts, including photography. Literary submissions must be postmarked by Dec. 1, and sent to SCC Milestone, Attn. Mike Park; 447 College Drive; Sylva, NC 28779 or via email to milestone@southwesterncc.edu. Submissions in visual art must be postmarked by the same date and sent to the same address, Attn. Bob Keeling or via email to bkeeling@southwesterncc.edu. For more information, contact Mike Park at milestone@southwesterncc.edu or 828.339.4215.

WCU to host legacy pinning event A group of Western Carolina University’s (WCU) newest students will be ceremoniously welcomed as members of the Catamount family by some of their own relatives who previously attended WCU as the university holds its annual Legacy Pinning event Saturday, Sept. 19. Sponsored by WCU’s Office of Engagement, the Legacy Pinning celebration is a special tradition that honors incoming students who are continuing a family connection to the university, said Stacey Miller, senior director of engagement and annual giving. The Legacy Pinning event will be held in the main arena of the Liston B. Ramsey Regional Activity Center, beginning at 10 a.m. with a breakfast buffet. Legacy first-year and transfer students and one designated alumni family member participating in the pinning

ceremony may attend at no cost. Additional family members and guests are welcome to attend for $10 per person. The event is part of Family Weekend at WCU, which includes a home football game, as the Catamounts host Presbyterian College. Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m. in the newly renovated E.J. Whitmire Stadium. Legacy pinning participants are invited to a pregame alumni tailgate in the Fieldhouse Lot beginning after the ceremony and ending at kickoff. After the game, the Office of Engagement will host the annual parent donor social event from 5-6:30 p.m. For answers to questions, contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at alumni@wcu.edu or 828.227.7335. Register for the Legacy Pinning event online. For more information about Family Weekend activities, visit wcu.edu/experience/campus-activities/family-weekend/index.aspx.

WCU welcomes record enrollment, largest-ever freshman class Western Carolina University’s Office of Institutional Planning and Effectiveness released its Fall 2026 enrollment statistics, as WCU welcomed its largest freshman class and biggest student population in university history. According to the report, 2,385 first-time full-time freshmen made Cullowhee home this fall, a 26.8% increase from last year, bringing total enrollment to 12,308. This fall’s freshman class saw an increase in honors students (2.37%), and WCU welcomed more new transfers (4.85%) and new graduate students (2.94%). Also, the freshman class’ average weighted high school GPA was 3.82, a slight increase from last fall. “Western Carolina University’s record enrollment of 12,308 students, including the largest incoming freshman class in our history, reflects the growing demand for a WCU education,” said William Moultrie, vice chancellor for the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Success. “Welcoming 2,385 new freshmen while increasing total enrollment by nearly 4% is an exciting milestone for our university.” The application for fall 2027 opened on Aug. 1, and WCU welcomes all prospective students to visit campus this fall. The university’s first open house of the academic year is Saturday, Oct. 31. For more information about open house or to schedule a tour, go to visit.wcu.edu.

Opinion

Smoky Mountain News

A snapshot as 9/11 unfolded before us

Sept. 11, 2001. This is a new and terrible day. As I sit nervously at my desk about 10:25 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 11, and look out on a gorgeous late-summer day in the mountains, terror of still unknown proportions is striking our country. Attackers are killing innocent people, perhaps thousands. We are hundreds of miles from the attacks, but in truth they are happening in my office in downtown Waynesville. We switch back and forth from websites — the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the BBC, Reuters, listen to it on Realplayer radio broadcasts — and we hear instantly of deaths, claims of who is or isn’t responsible, hear the harried

Don’t believe Whatley’s lies To the Editor: GOP candidate for Senate in North Carolina, Michael Whatley, lies are so flagrant that they are easily exposed by cross-checking several independent sources, chief among them the N.C. Prison System administration. Whatley’s lies concern his opponent in the Senate election. Former Gov. Roy Cooper is running to represent North Carolina in the Senate. Voters who paid attention during Cooper’s two terms know Whatley and his out-of-state billionairefunded PACs are lying. Unfortunately, many voters either lived elsewhere or were too busy earning a living to follow every issue closely, especially during COVID. Why the Whatley ads? Two reasons: first, voters’ longtime support of Gov. Cooper is so strong that the Whatley campaign has stooped to outright lies. Why was Cooper elected repeatedly? He is so widely respected and liked by Republicans, independents, and Democrats that he won the governorship twice in a row — when Trump won the state handily. Roy Cooper was first our attorney general. Throughout his career as AG, Cooper prosecuted — successfully — violent criminals and kept violent convicted felons in prison. As

descriptions of eyewitnesses who saw people jumping from the 110-story World Trade Centers before they collapsed, the halting, grave voices of news broadcasters. We see live video stream across the screen, rescuers and bloody survivors, eyewitnesses and newscasters. At 11:12 a.m. I am hearing President George Bush describe the events, our reaction, our plans for an investigation. Amid all this, amid the sadness and utter helplessness, two truths strike me. The completely senseless mentality that allows one person or group to attack and kill innocent people is beyond my depth of perception; Editor and two, our ability to watch it happen instantaneously makes the disasters even more difficult to cope with, perhaps more difficult to put in perspective. By 11:23 a.m., reports are coming from the FAA of airplanes missing across the nation, of grisly bodies burned from head to toe being admitted to New York hospitals, of 20,000 people or more still in the World Trade Towers when they collapsed from the planes piloted by suicide terrorists and filled with passengers. The death toll of innocents is mounting, and I am trying hard to imagine what kind of hatred could spawn all of the destruction. I remember after the Oklahoma City Federal Building was bombed, and we all blamed foreign terrorists. In fact, the deaths were caused by a disgruntled American, a boy really. But this is of even a larger scale, a coldly calculated series

Scott McLeod

Our newsroom began talking a couple of months ago about pulling together a few stories to mark the 25th year since the 9/11 terrorist attacks that so profoundly changed this country. The memories are discomforting, but that’s often the case with calamitous events that shape history. This edition contains some personal accounts from people who were at what became known as Ground Zero soon after the terrorists flew planes into and toppled the Twin Towers. They are emotional remembrances of a singularly unique chapter in a story that’s still being written. Those of us who then worked at The Smoky Mountain News — like the rest of the world — watched the events unfold in real time on computer screens. 9/11 was a Tuesday, so at the same time we were trying to put out that week’s edition of the newspaper. As the extent of the attacks continued to unfold, I ditched the original column I had written for that edition and started writing about the attacks and what I was feeling at the time. That column is reprinted below.

LETTERS governor, he championed tough crime laws and ensured that pretrial release bail policies were strictly followed. A second reason for the pro-Whatley ads is Whatley’s need to hide his own years-long friendship with Harvey Lee West, Jr., who served six years in prison for rape of three teenaged girls — while he was a policeman. The truth about the ads attacking Cooper: that Governor Cooper had no control over felons who are the subject of Whatley campaign ads. In fact, the ACLU criticized Cooper for fighting their lawsuit to reduce prison overcrowding during COVID. The N.C. Dept. of Adult Corrections explained that Decarlos Brown, the subject of one ad, was not released early. A court-mandated release for non-violent felons was signed after Brown had served his sentence. Quoting prison officials, the Charlotte Observer explained that “because the (COVID) settlement allowed the state to count certain cases retroactively to meet its terms, Brown’s case was included on the list even though he had already been released from prison months earlier and his custody status was not changed by the settlement.” Read details in the Observer’s “Fact check: Gov. Roy Cooper did not release DeCarlos Brown Jr. early from prison” (Feb. 9, 2026).

of terrorist attacks that had to be planned for months, even years. Children, mothers, sisters, and fathers have been killed. The obsessive hatred of the United States by different groups has spawned some terrible acts in the past, but nothing like this. The only blame, though, is on those who committed the attacks. There is a higher place, and they will pay for their actions. By 11:37, we hear that more passenger airplanes are missing. By 11:42 a.m., CNN reports another airline in route to San Francisco is down. I begin to wonder how many are going to die, wonder if those people on those planes know what is happening. There is no way they could, except they do likely know they have been hijacked. The rest of the terror, perhaps, is unknown to them. And as we watch and hear, I begin to dislike being able to do so. Lightning bolts are flashing all around, earthquakes hitting, quieting, and then hitting again. Confusion is too simple a word. Like a viewer of some reality show gone awry, I can’t stop, can’t pull the plug on the web. The horror of it all has me addicted in some way I don’t know how to explain. As we approach noon, I think about what effect this day may have on the history of the United States and our place in the world. Will it change us? Will it change the rest of the world? I don’t know. The truth is that using terrorism is an admission of helplessness. Those who are victims of it will, after the sadness and shock wear off, be filled with a new hatred. Finally, I have an intense desire to see my kids and my wife. For today there are perhaps thousands of good people — both living and dead — who will never again have that opportunity. (Scott McLeod can be reached at info@smokymountainnews.com.)

See also The Assembly, “The Politics of a Prison-Release Settlement” (July 27, 2026). Another ex-convict, Tyrell Brace, had also served his full sentence. Even if Brace had been returned to prison for a parole violation, he would have been free months before he killed a young woman. So again, Whatley lies.

Likewise, Lucas Scronce is a drug and stolen property ex-con. Scronce had been free for over three years when he killed his baby daughter. The truth about Michael Whatley: his ties to Harvey Lee West are public record. See a report by Tom Fiedler,

Pulitzer Prize-winning political reporter and dean emeritus of Boston University, “Democracy Watch: Links between convicted sex offender, state GOP leadership may complicate candidacies.” Fiedler lives in Asheville. Whatley, as former Republican National Party head, appointed ex-convict Harvey Lee West to chair the Republican Party’s N.C. Congressional District 1 (Dare County). Whately and West have been friends at least since at least 2019. Republican statewide candidates, including those running for the N.C. Supreme Court, refuse to answer questions about West, and Whatley’s support of him. Whatley refused to answer The Smoky Mountain News questions about their relationship. See the Smoky Mountain News, “Parents target Whatley over sex offender controversy” (May 6, 2026). Sickeningly, Republicans have a strong record of ignoring the crimes of child molesters/rapists, from Trump and his Department of Justice’s violations of federal law to suppress the Epstein files all the way down to North Carolina Republican candidates. Voters, remember the old saying, “You are known by the company you keep.” Mary J. Curry, Haywood County

Veterans must seek Trump’s removal

Making the simple complicated

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To the Editor: Unless you have been living under rock, you have heard about the controversy with the WNBA. “W” stands for Women’s, although the WNBA has been having trouble defining exactly what a woman is. It seems that it depends on whether you are talking about the sex you were born with, or your legal sex, or the gender you identify with. Now admittedly I had the advantage of going to medical school, and I know that women have the XX chromosome and men have the XY, but you don’t have to be a doctor to know what a woman is. You know that person who gave birth to you. In the name of “ inclusion” and “enlightenment” and being “open minded,” we have complicated a subject that is remarkably simple. The Bible says that “the wisdom of the world is foolishness to God,” and this is a perfect example. Even Caitlyn Jenner, who used to be Bruce Jenner, Olympic champion in the men’s decathlon, said it best, “XX you’re in and XY and you’re out.” I agree. So, if transgender athletes want to play basketball and their birth sex was male, then let them play in the NBA or form their own league. It is possible to be so “open minded” that your brains fall out. David Lawson, MD Lake Junaluska

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To the Editor: I seriously doubt most Americans view our present political circumstances as I do, but I believe a case could be made that we are reliving the dilemma the colonists faced: the government that held authority over them didn’t represent them. I recall (so vividly) elementary school lessons pertaining to “taxation without representation.” We need not prove whether we can govern ourselves but perhaps need reminding that our government doesn’t own us; we own it. We’re obligated, therefore, to reclaim what is rightfully ours or we will lose it. Make no mistake, we’ve allowed ourselves to be ruled by a conman, liar and master grifter who, promising peace, has brought only suffering and economic collapse to an already troubled world. Trump incited an armed mob to attack our Capitol and kill its defenders if necessary, to overturn an election he knew he’d lost. He then wrongly pardoned 1,600 insurrectionists. This president has been convicted of more crimes than the vast majority of the people he’s deported. The United States is the undisputed epicenter of a chaotic and shattered society of nations. We have never looked weaker, more ridiculous, incompetent, and untrustworthy to allies and adversaries alike around the world than we do right now. Consequently, a new world order has emerged, and we’re not in it. To our allies, our credibility no longer exists. This admin-

istration has tossed that overboard along with our dignity, our integrity, and the last vestiges of our moral conscience. To the rest of the world, we appear a seriously flawed society with the intellectual characteristics akin to and paired with the moral virtues and integrity of a fur ball. Through it all, even as Trump purges the experienced and knowledgeable leadership from, the Department of Homeland Security to the Pentagon, the veteran community remains deafeningly silent, seemingly willing to be complicit in this administration’s wrongdoings. However, one USAF Major, Jason Watson, carried out what the U.S. Congress (together with veterans organizations: the American Legion, VFW and others) should have. Major Watson stood on the Capitol steps (in uniform), knowing full well he might sacrifice both his career and his freedom, and demanded President Trump be impeached, held accountable for his crimes against the Constitution, violations of U.S. and international laws, and removed from office. One man regarded his oath as sacred and acted on it. Americans must understand, that there can be no justice in a nation where men like Trump are allowed to flourish. Does this once principled and prosperous nation not have a sufficient number of men and women of courage and enough soul left to say: “No more — enough???” David L. Snell Franklin

a and more! 23

Formerly Sassafras on Main, the building located at 196 North Main St. in Waynesville is the future home of the Haywood County Arts Council.

giving back to the community and our local artists. None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of an anonymous donor who made it possible for the HCAC to purchase this building debt-free.” By the numbers, the leap into the new building will take HCAC’s footprint from just around 1,000 square feet to 17,438. Beyond ample space to display and sell artwork and have much-needed administrative offices, Harwood aims to use the facility to showcase “live music, performances, literary readings, and other community events.”

Want to know more? Appalachian Road Show. HCAC photo

Located on Main Street in Waynesville, the Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) offers a wide range of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. As well, HCAC will also host the annual Smoky Mountains Bluegrass Festival, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. Acts to appear include Balsam Range, Appalachian Road Show, Unspoken Tradition, Red Camel Collective, and Olivia Jo. To purchase tickets, visit haywoodarts.org/smoky-mountains-bluegrass-festival. HCAC’s Haywood Handmade Gallery is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call 828.452.0593 or visit haywoodarts.org. To learn about the “Elevate the Arts” capital campaign and/or donate, visit givebutter.com/elevate-the-arts-hcac.

Strength of a

community Haywood Arts receives large private donation, will relocate to new facility BY GARRET K. WOODWARD ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR t’s been said that the litmus test of a community’s strength is how well its local arts are supported. By the looks of it, the small mountain town of Waynesville is robust when it comes to the arts, especially with the recent news that’s come to the Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) on Main Street. “This is just going to blow the roof off of what we’re able to do in the community,” said HCAC Executive Director Tonya Harwood. On the morning of Friday, Sept. 4, Harwood closed on a new property for the HCAC to inhabit. With a recent anonymous donation of over a million dollars, the beloved nonprofit organization can leave its longtime Main Street rental space. It now has a home of its own just a couple blocks away in the for-

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Smoky Mountain News

mer Sassafras on Main building (next to Sauced and across from the Haywood County Historic Courthouse). “There are so many emotions wrapped up in this moment,” Harwood said. “This journey has brought me to tears on many occasions. Tears of excitement, gratitude, being overwhelmed by the enormity of what we were trying to accomplish. And now, more than anything? Joy. Haywood County will, at long last, have an arts center of its own — it’s an incredible feeling.” Representing over 175 local artisans and encompassing around 60 volunteers at any given time, HCAC is a beacon of creativity and connectivity in the mountains of Western North Carolina. “After the closing, our board will be talking about how this impacts our strategic plan,” Harwood said. “We have to find how we can make the most out of this gift and make sure we’re

“I truly believe this building can become a permanent foundation for the arts in Haywood County — a place where creativity, connection, and community can flourish for generations to come,” Harwood said. “We’re going to move everything from (the) Folkmoot (Center) over to Main Street. We’ll have our quilt block studio, kids’ art club, additional classes that our artist members can teach and potentially lease some space to other (local arts) organizations — everything in this space will be mission-aligned.” One area of possibility for the new HCAC headquarters that Harwood is excited about is the being able to offer affordable studio space for local artists. “We’d like to kind of give them a change to get going,” Harwood said. “I’d like to make something for people that move to the area, retire and start a new arts business, and want to have a place to work. Or maybe someone that just graduated from the Professional Crafts Program (at Haywood Community College in Clyde).” In 2025, alongside HCAC’s year-round arts programming, the organization gave out numerous “Grassroots Grants” to local artisans totaling around $21,000. According to Harwood, “we (also) made over $65,000 in direct payments to artists

SEE HCAC, PAGE 26

HOT PICKS BY GARRET K. WOODWARD

Ode to 25 years later, ode to never forgetting

Cataloochee Divide Trail. Garret K. Woodward photo

Marquee bluegrass ensemble Authentic Unlimited will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin.

EVENTS Thursday, Septembe er 10 Bobby G Blues • 8pm - 10pm

Saturday, September 12 Tricia Ann Band Rock • 8pm - 11pm

Granny’s Mason Jar (Americana/bluegrass) will perform at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City.

Sunday, September 13

The Darren Nicholson Band will hit the stage for an intimate performance at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley.

Open Mic hosted by Bridget Gossett Sign ups at 6:30pm. 0pm Open Mic at 7pm

Wednesday, Septemb ber 16

Arielle Hebert will share her debut poetry collection, “Bottom Feeders,” at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.

Dolly Forever — A Fundraiser e for Dolly’s Imagination Librar ay Dolly Parton Playlist • 10% of sales dontaed to Dolly’’ss Imagination Library 4pm - Midnight

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our shores has been filled with division between our own citizens, much of that rift rooted in 9/11 and actions taken by the government thereafter. Foreign wars, foreign oil, in bed with dubious foreign countries, and all of it still happening each day amid our state of things. Regardless, I think of those lives lost on 9/11 and what their legacy is. Heroes who helped save strangers instead of themselves. Police officers and firefighters who stormed up dozens of floors in full gear to bring aid. Those who didn’t make it out of the towers alive. Those who did, who still carry a heart of compassion and perseverance within. And those who never forgot what it means to reach out and help someone. They are the essence of not only the United States, but, more importantly, of what it means to be human. Twenty-five years. What’s next, eh? This quarter-century whirlwind of shaky economies, political strife, a pandemic, violence across the country and around the world, unrelenting emotional trauma, incessant white noise echoing from every direction, and the sheer physical exhaustion of simply standing up and trying to be a productive, caring member of your community. And yet, I remain. So do you. Life is too precious to let it slip through your fingers. Human connection is too important to simply turn your back and ignore the person next to you. Love does make the world goround, not money, especially since it seems only those high above are actually laughing all the way to the bank. No matter, I will always keep my head held high. I’ll always offer a handshake of friendship and understanding. And I’ll always make sure to stand up for others in need, and help them unconditionally. You dig?

Celtic Sunday w/ Jenny & The Weazels 3pm - 6pm

Monday, September 14

ScotsmanPublic..com 37 CHURCH ST • DOWNTTOOWN WAAYYNESVILLE @thescotsmanwaynesvillee

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Smoky Mountain News

I reflect on that day, often. We all do, honestly, especially folks in my age bracket (late 30s/early 40s), with the majority of our lives spent carefully navigating the rough, choppy and heinous waters of our world post-9/11. Of course, we remember the fallen, either on that day or overseas in the ongoing “War on Terror.” I think of all my high school buddies who immediately joined the military following 9/11, many more so when we invaded Iraq in March 2003, my senior class graduating just three months later. A lot of those folks were never, ever the same when they returned home from wartorn places. Are we any safer 25 years later? No, not really. Thankfully (and fingers crossed) we haven’t had another 9/11 on American soil. But, the lack of international terrorism on

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September 9-15, 2026

wenty-five years. It didn’t dawn on me until one of my colleagues mentioned it in our editorial meeting last week. But, yes, it has been a quarter-century since Sept. 11, 2001, the line in the sand between the old world and the new, for good or ill (but mostly ill, in terms of what has come to pass since then). I’m a lifelong eternal optimist. I’m also a realist, but one who will continually give someone the benefit of the doubt until proven otherwise. I believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty when it comes to life itself and daily interactions. What 9/11 did, for most folks, was shift that entire mindset in the previous sentence to the perspective we as a country have adopted at every level of society since, from your neighbor all the way to the White House, one where everyone around you is “guilty until proven innocent.” Fear, basically. Sheesh, I mean, I get it. It’s hard to get out of bed on certain days, where you don’t want to scroll your phone or walk out the front door and into another day in a modern world of chaos and confusion, of seemingly more unknowns than knowns in the digital age of massive corporations and greed, where you and me (and you, too) feel like we’re just looked at as disposable entities in this current juncture of rampant affairs when it comes to AI and data centers. And don’t even get me started on American relations with the rest of the planet. This isn’t even about political parties. This is about how we as human beings are being treated by those in control, and how we as a country are treating other nations that used to call us allies, that used to come together with us in our time of need or in theirs. This isn’t the country my grandfathers fought for in World War II, let alone all those who didn’t make it out alive. I digress. Take a deep breath and remember: eternal optimist. Remember that the energy you radiate is the energy you attract. You are a magnet for what you put out into the universe. This is truth. I also believe in the pendulum swing of justice and peace. The ebb and flow of existence, of one’s intent and the powers of the ether high above us working in tandem to right the wrongs of the past. To that, karma is real. Don’t forget the importance of kindness and compassion, and practice those two things without expectation or favor. I was 16 years old and a junior in high school when I watched the Twin Towers collapse live on national television in my second period social studies classroom. The school was located just a couple miles down Route 276 from the U.S. border crossing

into Canada. Upstate New York. The North Country. Some six hours due south is the island of Manhattan. But, on Sept. 11, 2001, that physical distance was erased, just like the thousands of lives lost that day in New York City, Washington D.C., and a cornfield in rural Pennsylvania. It’s not like the topic of 9/11 is a dead horse at this point. It won’t ever be, in essence, and nor should it be. But, pretty much everything has been said that could be expressed on that day. Again, for good or ill. And yet, that day was the line in the sand, at least when it comes to my generation, millennials. Everyone older than us were adults and situated in their respective lives and routines. Everyone below us was too young to remember 9/11. We were school kids who had our world flipped upside down. And it’s never been flipped back.

The Blue Ridge Peace Fest will host an array of local musical acts from 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva.

arts & entertainment

This must be the place

Or stop in at:

97 7 N Main Stt Waynes Wa essvville blueridgemassage-wncc.com

On the stage

arts & entertainment

On the table

Ready for dinner ‘Under the Stars’? The popular “Under the Stars, On the Rocks” culinary series is currently underway at the Oak Steakhouse at the Skyline Lodge in Highlands. The events feature renowned chefs from around the Southeast on select dates, with the final gathering of the 2026 season being Tuesday, Oct. 13. Each four-course meal in the series is unique and personal to the guest chef, offering a one-of-a-kind outdoor dining experience.

• Cataloochee Ranch (Maggie Valley) will host semi-regular culinary events and workshops throughout the week. For a full schedule of upcoming activities, tickets and reservations, visit cataloocheeranch.com/ranchevent.

September 9-15, 2026

• Balsam Mountain Inn (Balsam) will host “Wind Down Wine Flights” 6 p.m. Thursdays and a special semi-regular wine tasting. 828.283.0145 / thebalsammountaininn.com. • Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host semi-regular craft brewery tastings. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / blueridgebeerhub.com. • “Flights & Bites” will be held at 4 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays at Bosu’s Wine Shop in downtown Waynesville and “Mystery Wine

HCAC, CONTINUED FROM 24

Smoky Mountain News

(and) over $37,000 in direct payments to musicians last year.” “So, I feel like we’re putting money back in the hands of the creatives,” Haywood said. “Because then, they’re going out and they’re spending money in our community, too — it comes full-circle.” The HCAC will also soon launch a capital campaign “to transform this 1935 building into a vibrant, accessible arts center.” Dubbed “Elevate the Arts,” the campaign will raise funds to repair the non-working elevator onsite to provide accessibility to all three floors in the building, as well as installing fire-rated stairwells and other infrastructure priorities before opening. “The main floor gallery needs a new lighting system specifically designed to illuminate artwork, along with movable exhibit walls that can be reconfigured,” Harwood noted. “On the top floor, we hope to add natural light as we develop artist studios in a variety of sizes and price points, creating affordable spaces for artists with different needs and budgets.” According to Harwood, there is no “con26

Skyline Lodge. File photo

Dinners are $175 per person (including beverage pairings). Reservations required. For more information and/or to make reservations, call 828.526.4008 or visit skyline-lodge.com.

Dinner” 6 p.m. Sept. 15. 828.452.0120 / waynesvillewine.com. • “Take A Flight” with four new wines every Friday and Saturday at the Bryson City Wine Market. Select from a gourmet selection of charcuterie to enjoy with your wines. Educational classes and other events are also available. 828.538.0420.

ALSO:

• “Uncorked: Wine & Rail Pairing Experience” will be held on select dates at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City. Full service all-adult first class car. Wine pairings with a meal and more. There will also be a special “Carolina Moonshine” train on select dates. 800.872.4681 / gsmr.com. crete timeline for the full transition or opening just yet.” With countless details to still be worked through (permitting, construction, accessibility and safety requirements), the HCAC will hold off on setting a date for the grand opening. But, for now, what matters most is that the ball is in motion and rolling forward for the arts organization. “In the meantime, HCAC will continue operating as usual,” Harwood said. “We have a full calendar of programs, exhibitions and events, so the transition will happen alongside our regular work. There’s a tremendous amount happening behind the scenes and we’re excited to begin sharing that process with our community.” Not to be overshadowed, next year will mark another milestone for HCAC with the 50th anniversary of its formation. Launched in 1977 by a handful of local volunteers through humble, organic ways and means, the organization has grown into a pillar of arts and culture in Haywood County. Among its many initiatives, one of its proudest was being a catalyst for the inception of Waynesville’s storied Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, now considered one of the finest playhouses in the Southeast.

HART presents ‘Noises Off’ A special stage production of Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off” will be performed on select dates and times through Sept. 27 at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville. Widely acclaimed as one of the funniest farces ever written, “Noises Off” gives audiences a hilarious look at the unpredictable world of live theatre, where missed cues, forgotten lines, backstage rivalries, and increasingly disastrous performances threaten to bring an entire production crashing down. The comedy begins during the final rehearsal of “Nothing On,” a delightfully questionable British bedroom farce that the company is preparing to take on tour. With The cast of ‘Noises Off.’ Courtesy of HART opening night rapidly approaching, director Lloyd Dallas is simply trying to get his actors through the show. Unfortunately, there are still entrances to remember, props to track, doors that refuse to cooperate, and an increasingly important question about where, exactly, the sardines are supposed to go. Tickets start at $19 per person, with upgrades and discounts available. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit harttheatre.org or call 828.456.6322.

The current showroom at HCAC’s Haywood Handmade Gallery. HCAC photo

“It’s really cool that 50 years ago, a handful of people decided to build this organization,” Harwood reflected. “And it ebbed and flowed with changes in the community. But

at its very core, it’s still serving its original purpose — to support local artists, innovation in art, and art education.”

On the wall arts & entertainment

HCAC’s ‘Go with the Flow’ A new exhibition celewaterways that are such brating the beauty, signifian important part of our cance and inspiration community and landfound in the waterways of scape. Haywood County, “Go with “Water is such an the Flow” will be on disintegral part of life in play through Nov. 2 in the Haywood County, and it Haywood Handmade has long been a source of Gallery at the Haywood inspiration for artists,” County Arts Council on said HCAC Executive Main Street in Waynesville. Director Tonya Harwood. “Go with the Flow” “‘Go with the Flow’ gives brings together artwork us a chance to celebrate inspired by the Pigeon the beauty of our waterRiver Watershed and the ways while also reminding many rivers, creeks, and us of our responsibility to streams that shape care for them. We are A work by David Ballard. HCAC photo excited to have Haywood Haywood County. Artists were encouraged to Waterways with us during explore water not only as a physical presence, the opening reception to help connect the artbut also as a source of movement, reflection, work with the real-world importance of protectchange, connection, and inspiration. ing our local waterways.” The exhibition features a variety of artistic The exhibit is free and open to the public. mediums and perspectives, highlighting the For more information, visit haywoodarts.org. many ways artists experience and interpret the

Dillsboro ‘Youth Arts Festival’

OPPEEN AT 11AM MONDA D Y-FRIIDAY

• “Makers Market” will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, in The Lineside at Frog Level Brewing in Waynesville. Dozens of local/regional arts and crafts vendors and more. Beer, wine and mimosa bar. Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 or froglevelbrewing.com. • “Riverside Artisan Market” will be held 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City. Shop local for jewelry, pottery, unique creations and fresh goods from talented artisans and farmers every month (MaySeptember). Free and open to the public. For

more information, visit noc.com/events. • “Farmers & Artisans Market” will be every Friday morning (May-October) at 117 Island Street in Bryson City. Stop by the old barn along the river for local, homegrown produce, as well as baked goods, jellies/preserves, authentic crafts and more. Picnic tables onsite. There will also be live music. Leashed pets are welcome. This is an outdoor event. Free and open to the public. 828.488.7857.

SEE ON THE WALL, PAGE 30

Fine Moun ntain Dining

Smoky Mountain News

Youth Arts Festival. File photo

September 9-15, 2026

The 16th annual “Youth Arts Festival” will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Jackson County Green Energy Park in Dillsboro. Children’s activities, live artisan demonstrations and much more. Food will be available for purchase. Only satellite parking will be available on WBI Drive, with a free shuttle available. The event is free and open to the public. For information, call 828.631.0271 or visit jcgep.org.

WHERE THE BLUE RIDGE MEETS THE SMOKIES 207 PARAGON PKWY, CLYDE Y · 828- 456-1997

BlueRoosterSout u hernGrill.com

arts & entertainment

On the beat • Appalachian Women’s Museum (Dillsboro) will host Ghost Pipe Sound Machine (Americana) Sept. 17 and Libby Rodenbough (singer-songwriter) Oct. 15. Both shows begin at 6 p.m. Admission is free. Donations appreciated. appwomen.org. • Assembly On Main (Waynesville) will host “Trivia Night” 6 p.m. Tuesdays and “Karaoke Night” 7 p.m. Thursdays. Free and open to the public. 828.246.0839 / assemblyonmain.com.

otherwise noted. For tickets and reservations, visit cataloocheeranch.com/ranch-event. • Classic Wineseller (Waynesville) will host Jay Brown (piano/vocals) Sept. 18 and Brent LaCasce (jazz/piano) Sept. 25. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Reservations highly recommended. The kitchen and wine bar will open at 4 p.m. 828.452.6000 or classicwineseller.com.

Bluegrass stars come to Franklin

September 9-15, 2026

Marquee bluegrass ensemble Authentic Unlimited will hit the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts in Franklin. Authentic Unlimited is a dynamic bluegrass band that blends rich harmonies with skillful instrumentation to create a sound that is both timeless and innovative. Composed of seasoned musicians, including former members of the legendary Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, the band brings a deep-rooted passion for traditional bluegrass, infused with fresh energy. Having earned recognition with numerous International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards/nominations and Dove Awards nominations, the band’s talent and dedication

• Blue Ridge Beer Hub (Waynesville) will host “Music Bingo Night” 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, The Blue Mountaineers (bluegrass) Thursdays, Chris Minick (singer-songwriter) Sept. 11, Paul Koptak (singer-songwriter) Sept. 12, Chris Campbell (singer-songwriter) Sept. 18 and Sneaky Pete Band Sept. 19. All music starts at 5 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.246.9320 / facebook.com/brbeerhub.

Smoky Mountain News

• Breadheads Tiki Shak (Sylva) will host “Tiki Trivia” at 7 p.m. every other Thursday of the month, Osprey Orchestra Sept. 11 and Justin Brown & Andrew Ross Sept. 18. All shows begin at 10 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 828.307.2160 / breadheadstikishak.com. 828.586.1237 / cdpjaxcountync.org. • Bridge Park (Sylva) will host the “Blue Ridge Peace Fest” with an array of local acts from 37:45 p.m. Sept. 12 including Ghost Pipe Sound Machine (3-3:45 p.m.), The Miller Sisters (44:45 p.m.), Madison Sciarini (5-5:45 p.m.), Plant (6-6:45 p.m.) and Moody Bridge (7-7:45 p.m.). Craft beer vendors, food trucks and artisan booths will also be onsite. Presented by the Center for Domestic Peace, there will be an array of local nonprofits represented.

• Cataloochee Ranch (Maggie Valley) will host a “Barn Dance” with Darren Nicholson Band (Americana/bluegrass) 4:30 p.m. Sept. 12, with DNB returning on Sept. 16 and Brian Ashley Jones (Americana) Sept. 23. All shows begin at 5 p.m. and admission is $30 per person unless 28

will host a “Bluegrass Mass” 10:30 a.m. Sept. 13 with Darren Nicholson Band (Americana/bluegrass) to perform on the lawn from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. 828.456.6029.

Sept. 11, The V8s (rock) Sept. 18 and Prophets Of Time (rock/jam) “Album Release Party” Sept. 19. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com.

• Happ’s Place (Glenville) will host Corey Stevenson (singer-songwriter) Sept. 11, Rock Holler Sept. 12, Charles Walker (singer-songwriter) Sept. 18 and Dillon & Company Sept. 19. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.742.5700 / happsplace.com.

• Legends Sports Bar & Grill (Maggie Valley) will host “Open Mic Night” 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Karaoke Thursdays (6 p.m.) and Saturdays (7 p.m.), with live music each Friday (8 p.m.). Free and open to the public. 828.944.0403 / facebook.com/legendssportsgrillmaggievalley.

• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort (Cherokee) will host Travis Tritt (country) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19. For tickets, visit caesars.com/harrahscherokee. • Highlander Mountain House (Highlands) will host “Blues & Brews” with Scott Low 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, Zorki (singer-songwriter) 1-3 p.m. Saturdays, “Bluegrass Brunch” 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays, the “Salon Series” with Bobby Bare Jr. (singer-songwriter) 8:30 p.m. Sept. 24 ($41.84 per person, tax included). Reservations encouraged for all performances. 828.526.2590 / highlandermountainhouse.com.

Authentic Unlimited. to their craft is widely celebrated in the bluegrass community. Tickets start at $15 per person, with seating upgrades offered. For more information and/or to purchase tickets, visit smokymountainarts.com or call 866.273.4615.

• Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host “Open Mic” at 6 p.m. every second Friday of the month and Ritchie & Rosie (Americana/folk) Sept. 20 ($15 adults, $7.50 kids). 828.369.4080 / coweeschool.org/concertseries. • Farm At Old Edwards (Highlands) will host the “Orchard Sessions” with Cruz Contreras (singer-songwriter) Oct. 7. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Admission is $50 per person, with discounts rates available for hotel guests and members. 866.526.8008 / oldedwardshospitality.com. • Friday Night Live Concert Series (Highlands) will host Byrds & Crows Sept. 11 and Blackwell Tradition II Sept. 18. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org. • Frog Level Brewing (Waynesville) will host “Jazz On The Level” 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Chris Caruso (singer-songwriter) 5:30 p.m. Sept. 9, Rocky Collin (singer-songwriter) 6 p.m. Sept. 11, Rich Manz Trio (acoustic/oldies) 6 p.m. Sept. 12, Bo Bullman (singer-songwriter) 3 p.m. Sept. 13, “Beats & Feets Drum/Dance Circle” 6 p.m. Sept. 14, Shane Meade (indie/soul) 6 p.m. Sept. 18, The Mug Band 6 p.m. Sept. 19 and Mike Hollon (singer-songwriter) 3 p.m. Sept. 20. Free and open to the public. 828.454.5664 / froglevelbrewing.com. • Grace Church In The Mountains (Waynesville)

• Highlands Performing Arts Center (Highlands) will host Memories Of Motown (R&B/soul) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11. 828.526.9047 / highlandsperformingarts.com. • Las Barricas (Franklin) will host C-Square Band 11 a.m. on the fourth Friday of each month. Free and open to the public. 828.349.4484 / lasbarricasmexicanrestaurant.com. • Lazy Hiker Brewing (Franklin) will host “Board Game Night” 5 p.m. Mondays, “Music Bingo” 7 p.m. Tuesdays, “Trivia Night” 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, “Open Mic Night” 6:30 p.m. Thursdays. Fuzzy Peppers (rock/jam) Sept. 12, Bryan & Al (rock/pop) Sept. 18 and Grizzly Mammoth (rock/funk) Sept. 19. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.349.2337 / lazyhikerbrewing.com. • Lazy Hiker Brewing (Sylva) will host “Music Bingo” 7 p.m. Mondays, “Trivia Night” 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, “Old Time Jam” 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Anna Victoria (singer-songwriter)

• Mountain Layers Brewing (Bryson City) will host “Open Mic Night” with Frank Lee every Tuesday, Woolybooger (blues/folk) Sept. 11, Granny’s Mason Jar (Americana/bluegrass) Sept. 12, Wyatt Espalin (singer-songwriter) 5 p.m. Sept. 13, Mountain Gypsy (Americana) Sept. 18, Bird In Hand (Americana/folk) Sept. 19 and Bridget Gossett (singer-songwriter) 6 p.m. Sept. 20. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.538.0115 / mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com. • Peacock Performing Arts Center (Hayesville) will host The Fine Colombians (Steely Dan tribute) Sept. 12 and Gnarly Fingers (Americana) Sept. 19. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. For tickets, 828.389.ARTS / thepeacocknc.org. • Pickin’ In The Park (Canton) will host Rick Morris Band & Green Valley Cloggers (Americana/bluegrass) 6 p.m. Sept. 11. Free and open to the public. • Pickin’ On The Square (Franklin) will host Mission Accomplished (southern rock) Sept. 12. All shows begin at 6 p.m. at the Gazebo in downtown. Free and open to the public. franklinnc.com/pickin-on-the-square.html. • Quirky Birds Treehouse & Bistro (Dillsboro) will host “Karaoke” 8 p.m. Fridays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. Free and open to the public. 828.586.1717 / facebook.com/quirkybirdstreehouse. • Rathskeller Coffee Haus & Pub (Franklin) will host “Karaoke” 7 p.m. Wednesdays, “Trivia Night” 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, “Open Mic” 6:30

Ready for Highlands PorchFest? The sixth annual Highlands PorchFest will be held from 1-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at a variety of local venues within the community. Over 40 musicians will perform across 16 venues in downtown Highlands. The festival is presented by the Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment (CLE) and the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC. “We’re incredibly grateful to Visit Highlands for their generous sponsorship and support of PorchFest,” said CLE Executive Director, Meg Stevens. “Their partnership Scott Low will play PorchFest. File photo helps us celebrate the music, community and welcoming spirit that make Highlands so special. We’re excited for this year’s PorchFest and look forward to bringing our community and visitors together for another unforgettable day.” The event is free and open to the public. For more information and to view a full schedule of artist and performance times, visit highlandsporchfest.com.

Nicholson returns to Cataloochee Ranch

p.m. on certain Fridays, Jason Rogers (singersongwriter) 6:30 p.m. Sept. 9, Dirty Dave & Friends 7 p.m. Sept. 12, Joe Munoz (singersongwriter) 6:30 p.m. Sept. 15, Michael Robinson (singer-songwriter) 7 p.m. Sept. 18 and Bo Bullman (singer-songwriter) 7 p.m. Sept. 19. Free and open to the public. 828.369.6796 / facebook.com/rathskellercoffeebarandpub.

• Salty Dog’s Seafood & Grill (Maggie Valley) will host “Karaoke With Russell” on Mondays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.926.9105 / facebook.com/saltydogs2005.

• Saturdays On Pine Concert Series (Highlands) will host High 5 Sept. 12 and Boogitherapi Sept. 19. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. highlandschamber.org.

• Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts (Franklin) will host Authentic Unlimited (bluegrass) 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11. Tickets start at $15 per person, with seating upgrades offered. 866.273.4615 / smokymountainarts.com.

Blue Ridge Peace Fest Presented by the Center for Domestic Peace, the Blue Ridge Peace Fest will host an array of local musical acts from 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Bridge Park in downtown Sylva. Artists to appear include Ghost Pipe Sound

host Rail Town (Americana) 3 p.m. Sept. 11, Tim Austin (singer-songwriter) 2 p.m. Sept. 13, Lucas Smith (singer-songwriter) 3 p.m. Sept. 18 and Rail Town (Americana) 2 p.m. Sept. 20. Free and open to the public. 828.482.5573 / thevineyardathighholly.com. • Water’n Hole Bar & Grill (Waynesville) will host “Trivia Night” 7 p.m. Mondays, “Karaoke Night” 8 p.m. Thursdays, with semi-regular

Mountain Layers goes Americana A regional Americana/bluegrass act, Granny’s Mason Jar will perform at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Mountain Layers Brewing in Bryson City. Following in the footsteps of Doc Watson, Norman Blake, Clarence White and Tony Rice, Granny’s Mason Jar brings together the talents of Jared “Blue” Smith (The Blue Revue, Bluegrass Lumber Company) and Aaron Plantenberg (Commonfolk, Big House Radio) to continue the tradition of flatpicking, travis picking and other traditional acoustic guitar styles.

weekly, Rich Manz Trio (acoustic/oldies) 5 p.m. Sept. 11, Ginny McAfee (singer-songwriter) 2 p.m. Sept. 13 and Chad Bowden (bluegrass/country) 2 p.m. Sept. 20. Free and open to the public. 828.944.0686 / valleycigarandwineco.com. • Valley Tavern (Maggie Valley) will host “Trivia With Tom” Wednesdays, “Music Bingo” Saturdays and semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows and events begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.926.7440 / valley-tavern.com.

Granny’s Mason Jar. File photo Free and open to the public. For more information, call 828.538.0115 or visit mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com.

DJs and live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 9 p.m. 828.456.4750 / facebook.com/waternhole.bar. • Whiteside Brewing (Cashiers) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. All shows begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.743.6000 / whitesidebrewing.com.

ALSO:

• Vineyard At High Holly (Scaly Mountain) will

• Yonder Community Market (Franklin) will host “First Friday Classic Country: Jim Austin & Friends” (Americana/country) 6 p.m. each month (Oct. 2) and the “On the Lawn at Yonder” live music series with Kyle Eldridge (Americana) Sept. 6. Admission by donation. Family/dog friendly. 828.200.2169 / eatrealfoodinc.com.

Machine (3-3:45 p.m.), The Miller Sisters (4-4:45 p.m.), Madison Sciarini (5-5:45 p.m.), Plant (66:45 p.m.) and Moody Bridge (7-7:45 p.m.). Craft beer vendors, food trucks and artisan booths will also be onsite. Other nonprofits at the event: Reflection of Inspiration, Unidxs, WNC Alliance, AWAKE, HERE in Jackson County, The

Community Table, HIGHTS, Peak Wellness Collective and The Jackson County Department of Public Health, as well as a table for the RAD Self Defense Course. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call Carter McDevitt, outreach coordinator for CFDP, at 828.586.1237.

• Veterans Of Foreign Wars Post 5202 (Waynesville) will host semi-regular live music on the weekends. 828.456.9356 / vfw5202.org.

TICKETS: $10 for community member s $7 for senior s • $$5 for students Free for children 12 and under Tickets are available at the door or for purchase in advvaance at pcmdc.org Series passes available at a discount.

Smoky Mountain News

• Slanted Window Tasting Station (Franklin) will host Adam & Joe (Americana) 6 p.m. Sept. 11, “Music Bingo” 2 p.m. Sept. 12, Jamie Rasso (singer-songwriter) 4 p.m. Sept. 13, Tim Austin (singer-songwriter) 6 p.m. Sept. 18 and R.A. Nightingale (singer-songwriter) 4 p.m. Sept. 20. 828.276.9463 / slantedwindow.com.

• Valley Cigar & Wine Company (Waynesville) will host the “Tuesday Music Social” 4 p.m.

Darren Nicholson Band. Courtesy of Jeff Smith Photography

September 9-15, 2026

• Scotsman (Waynesville) will host “Open Mic Night” every second Monday of the month with Bridget Gossett (sign-up at 6:30 p.m.), Bobby G. (Americana/blues) Sept. 10, Tricia Ann Band (rock/country) Sept. 12, Jenny & The Weazels (Celtic/world) 3 p.m. Sept. 13, “Dolly Forever” fundraiser for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library 4 p.m. to midnight Sept. 16 (10% of sales will be donated), Kate Leigh Bryant (Americana/folk) Sept. 17, Cloud Circuit (trip-hop/jam) Sept. 19 and Holler & Crow (Celtic/world) 3 p.m. Sept. 20. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.246.6292 / scotsmanpublic.com.

• Stubborn Bull (Highlands) will host “Live Music Monday” each week with local singersongwriters, including Isiah Breedlove Sept. 14 and Breeze Cable Sept. 21. All shows begin at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Free and open to the public. 828.200.0813 / the-stubborn-bull.com.

Thursday • September 10 • 6-7:30

arts & entertainment

An acclaimed Americana/bluegrass act, the Darren Nicholson Band will hit the stage for an intimate performance at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley. A Grammy-nominee and winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards, Nicholson has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world. A regular for years on the Grand Ole Opry and a founding member of acclaimed bluegrass group Balsam Range, Nicholson now spends his time recording, writing new songs and performing as a solo act. Admission is $30 per person. For tickets and reservations, visit cataloocheeranch.com/ranch-event.

arts & entertainment

ON THE WALL, CONTINUED FROM 27 • WNC Paint Events will host painting sessions throughout the region on select dates. For more information and/or to sign up, visit wncpaint.events. • Marianna Black Library (Bryson City) will host “ArtWorks” at 1 p.m. every second Thursday of the month. Come create your own masterpiece. The materials for art works are supplied, and participants are welcome to bring ideas and supplies to share with each other. Ages 16 and up. Space limited to 10 participants. Free and open to the public. 828.488.3030 / vroberson@fontanalib.org. • CRE828 (Waynesville) will offer a selection of art classes and workshops at its studio located at 1283 Asheville Road. Workshops will include art journaling, watercoloring, mixed media, acrylic painting and more. 828.283.0523 / cre828.com. • Three Rivers Gallery (Bryson City) will be hosting an array of artist receptions, exhibits and showcases on select dates. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 828.488.3638 / threeriversgallery.com.

Smoky Mountain News

September 9-15, 2026

• Haywood County Arts Council (Waynesville) will offer a wide range of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. HCAC’s Haywood Handmade Gallery is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5

p.m. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. 828.452.0593 / haywoodarts.org. • Jackson County Green Energy Park (Dillsboro) will be offering a slew of classes, events and activities for artisans, locals and visitors. 828.631.0271 / jcgep.org. • Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center (Robbinsville) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. 828.479.3364 / stecoahvalleycenter.com. • Southwestern Community College Swain Arts Center (Bryson City) will host an array of workshops for adults and kids. 828.339.4000 / southwesterncc.edu/scc-locations/swain-center.

ALSO:

• Dogwood Crafters (Dillsboro) will offer a selection of upcoming art classes and workshops. 828.586.2248 / dogwoodcrafters.com. • Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center (Franklin) will host semi-regular arts and crafts workshops. 828.369.4080 / coweeschool.org. • Folkmoot Friendship Center (Waynesville) will host semi-regular artist gatherings and workshops. 828.452.2997 / folkmoot.org. • Bosu’s Wine Shop (Waynesville) will host a “Paint & Sip” at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25. 828.452.0120 / waynesvillewine.com.

‘Cherokee People and the American Revolution’ A first-of-its-kind exhibition centering Native voices, perspectives and creativity in response to the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the exhibition “Unrelenting: Cherokee People and the American Revolution” is currently being showcased at the Museum of the Cherokee People (MotCP) in Cherokee. On view through Dec. 30, the exhibition features historic objects in conversation with works by Cherokee artists, merging cultural heritage, military history and conMuseum of the temporary art for a nuanced examiCherokee People. nation of a pivotal moment in File photo Cherokee and American history. With research beginning in 2022, the exhibition’s curators — MotCP Director of Education Dakota Brown (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians), MotCP Director of Collections and Exhibitions Evan Mathis and guest curator Brandon Dillard (Cherokee Nation), director of Historic Interpretation and Audience Engagement at Monticello — sought Cherokee accounts of the American Revolution (1775-1783) and the Cherokee American War (1776-1794), highlighting the complexities of memory and commemoration. As the nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the curators of the exhibition aspire to spark conversation about American identity and sovereignty among visitors of all walks of life, sharing new research in the first exhibit about Cherokees in the American Revolution by Cherokee scholars. General admission tickets are $15 for adults, $8 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages 5 and under. MotCP offers free admission to members of federally recognized tribes and museum members. Student, educator, senior, and military rates available. Admission to all changing exhibitions is included in the general admission ticket price. For more information, visit motcp.org.

sat aturday ay ay

On the shelf

Ann Bevilacqua

AI, but is more concerned with our overall disconnect from the physical world. He doesn’t believe this is good for us. Don’t worry; he’s not pushing abstinence or some program. He wants us to carry on with whatever we were doing, while also noticing and taking pleasure in the small things. “It’s a cliché to urge you to stop and smell the roses, but you don’t even have to stop. Their

City Lights welcomes Hebert Arielle Hebert will share her debut poetry collection, “Bottom Feeders,” at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. Set in late 2000s Florida during the opioid epidemic, “Bottom Feeders” is a gritty queer coming-of-age collection where overdoses, red tide blooms, and hurricanes mingle with teenage desires, beach parties, and prom. Hebert is a North Carolina-based queer poet with roots in Florida and Louisiana. She holds an MFA in poetry from North Carolina State University and a BA in creative writing from Florida State University. Her work has appeared in Southern Humanities Review, Poetry Daily, Best New Poets and other publications. She is director of operations and marketing at Blair, a nonprofit independent publisher supporting emerging and diverse Southern writers. The reading is free and open to the public. For more information, visit citylightsnc.com or call 828.586.9499.

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Bookstore

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Smoky Mountain News

scent is already in the air …” The noticing of small things gives us moments “of control and connection … Add up all those little moments and they start to make a big difference.” They might not get us the new job or the new adventure, but they make everyday life more enjoyable. Naturally, Bogost points out that modern life, with its “increased emphasis on automation and efficiency,” is a major cause of this disconnect with the physical world. No matter, he says. The physical world is still here and can bring us immediate delight. Even the soft clack of computer keys can be a source of delight. This is not work, he says. It’s “giving yourself permission to fully experience the sensory life that is always happening to you anyway.” He calls this “the senso-

ry enchantment of everyday life.” I love that poetic phrase. The sensory enchantment of everyday life. The proposal is so simple. Notice things. Surprisingly, however, as Bogost reports, the application can seem hard. How could that be, he asks? “Feeling, hearing, seeing things …” How could that be hard? “Because we are so used to being stuck in our heads.” We are used to thinking about goals and disappointments. Writer Oliver Burkeman, interviewed in the book, writes and speaks about living life one week at a time. He refers often to the mistake we make when we focus too much on the future, and advises we turn our attention to “sights, sounds, touch, smell,” but was candid with Bogost. “Just to be clear, I find being in this mindset really difficult.” New to me was a person like Tera, who, among other things, takes 20 minutes to fold three towels on her YouTube channel. She talks to the viewer, quietly, while folding. People watch her videos to dispel anxiety. She might pack a suitcase or use a lint roller. Yes, it can seem hard to get out of our heads, to stop thinking, and most of us need some help to do so. Bogost calls upon a Tibetan Buddhist monk to simplify the situation. Don’t think about it, says the monk, just do it. Practice. Notice what is right around you. This is a most pleasant book, in large part because Bogost is such a good-natured person. He wants us to grasp his ideas, but he is not intense in any way. This speaks as much for the value of his ideas as any of the tales he tells. Since I began the reading, I have noticed the small things more often. The sunlight glinting off a watch on my dresser. The wonderful surprise of a tiny breeze coming in through an open window. The unique smell of mint, the sound of cicadas. If I want to settle, I might reach out and touch something — a cup, the table, a piece of paper — just for a moment. I took this book slowly, because an easy pace felt satisfying, and satisfaction is the deal here. Thank you, Ian Bogost. I appreciate your work. (Anne Bevilacqua is a Haywood County resident and a lover of books. abev1@yahoo.com.)

September 9-15, 2026

ournalist Karen Hao began covering OpenAI in 2019. OpenAI was one of the early companies trying to build AI. Hao, a graduate of MIT and a reporter for their Technology Review at the time, understood the science and was impressed by OpenAI’s original mission as a non-profit. The company would operate for the good of humanity. It would focus on safety and benevolence. Hao saw things change. With success and with competition, the company increasingly wanted more. More energy, land, water, mineral resources, computational resources, Writer money, talent, cheap overseas labor, and more data. More political influence. More computer chips. The non-profit phase ended and sometimes it seemed that the ever-present public enthusiasm was as much an attempt to dazzle, to avoid scrutiny, as it was genuine. And overall, in the race with other companies, it never seemed clear to anyone, to any company, what the end goal was to be. What was AI supposed to do? Fortunately, Karen Hao is an example of what is changing outside the race. She is one of many journalists who are committed to telling the truth about AI. Communities are waking up as well. Citizens are asking for moratoriums on data center construction. Schools are developing guidelines for the responsible use of AI. Parents are asking questions about the use of screens in general. As a believer in the disruptions of climate change, I have long been appalled by the massive energy needs of AI. Along with cryptocurrency, it is an energy consumer unlike anything the world has ever seen. I don’t need AI, so I have never intentionally used it. There may be uses that benefit mankind, and I don’t want to be shortsighted about that, but the debate, thank goodness, is on. Of prime interest to me is the way individuals respond to the pull of technology. How is a person to retain or recover a sense of peace when so much asks for our attention? To that end, I love the new book “The Small Stuff ” (Simon & Schuster, 2026, 221 pp). Author Ian Bogost talks a little about

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arts & entertainment

Taking note of ‘The Small Stuff’

SEPTE EM MBER 122th • 3pm

Outdoors The tiny and seldom seen least weasel is also one of nature’s fiercest predators. Biologists believe least weasels likely live in the Smokies but are still working to verify their presence. Christoph Moning photo

Word from the Smokies BY HOLLY KAYS FOR SMOKIES LIFE

New book collects wonders of the Smokies for nature lovers o matter where you were in the world, spring 2020 was a time of fear and uncertainty. The expanding COVID-19 pandemic prompted prevention measures that would have previously been unthinkable: closures of schools, restaurants, and even public lands like Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It was amid this backdrop that Frances Figart, creative services director for Smokies Life (then called Great Smoky Mountains Association), met with Marketing Coordinator Elly Wells for a brainstorming session. How could Smokies Life continue connecting people to the park when visiting was not allowed? “At the time, George Ellison still had his Nature Journal column in the Asheville Citizen-Times, in which he shed light on various wonders of biodiversity from his secluded cove several miles west of Bryson City, surrounded on three sides by the park,” Figart recalled. “But Parkinson’s disease was wreaking havoc on George’s ability to generate new material, and sometimes the paper had to rerun an older story.” Perhaps, Wells suggested, Smokies Life could create its own column, honoring Ellison’s style of regional storytelling while continuing to inspire readers to connect with

and care for the park. Figart loved the idea, and the Word from the Smokies column was born. The column first appeared in the Asheville Citizen-Times on April 5, 2020. Over the past six years, Word from the Smokies has covered everything from bears and broad-winged hawks to sochan and salamanders. Now, some of Figart’s favorite pieces are collected in the newly released book “Word from the Smokies: A Nature Reader.” “There’s a delight in the collection,” Wells said. “There’s this thread of celebration and engagement and interest in all of these pieces. They speak to a wide range of readers.” Figart traces her love of both writing and wildlife back to her childhood in eastern Kentucky, where she grew up on the grounds of the summer camp her parents were tasked with tending. Her father, an associational missionary, also printed a monthly newsletter — called “Mountain News and Views,” it was delivered to all 31 Southern Baptist churches in his association — on a Heidelberg printing press. “I remember I liked the authoritative firstperson voice he struck in his column,” Figart said. “Back then, I was making books for my parents before I could even spell; I dictated the storylines to my mom. I have always loved words and always enjoyed writing columns for the various magazines I’ve edited.” Launching Word from the Smokies just seemed like a “natural progression.” For some stories in the book, Figart employs a first-person voice like the one she

once admired in her father’s writing, sharing wildlife anecdotes from her backyard in East Tennessee or detailing how she formed her own perspective on issues like the importance of preventing wildlife deaths on roads. In others, the writing is more reporterly, bringing together nature experts and appreciators to help explain such mysteries as why bobcats are so rarely seen and what happens to box turtles when they’re relocated. “It took me a few stabs at finding the ‘voice’ I wanted to use,” said Figart. “We didn’t want it to in any way compete with or replace George’s (Ellison) steady drumbeat exposition on nature. But we did want to bring the park into focus, through both its cultural and natural history.” Since the column’s inception, Figart has authored more than 100 pieces, exploring everything from the stories behind the

Frances Figart visits George Ellison, who passed away in 2023, on his property in Bryson City. John Beaudet photo

Smokies’ grassy balds to historic building renovations to the amazing comeback of the northern river otter. These “all-encompassing, very packed little jewels of writing,” as Wells described them, offer insightful information, intriguing interviews, and invitations for readers to help protect the park’s unique natural resources. Narrowing the list down to the smaller subset of stories in the book was made easier by the decision to focus the book on naturecentered topics. Figart gathered up her favorites and worked with her staff to whittle the contents down to 24 chapters. The stories were then re-edited to achieve the more timeless quality needed for a book, complete with updated facts and figures and, for most chapters, a brief section at the end offering the reader resources to learn more or to make a difference in preserving the wildlife featured in the story. “These articles are not very complex; they’re written for anyone at pretty much a basic reading level,” Figart said. “What I really hope is that if readers can gain some new insight into critters, plants or fungi through this simple book, then maybe they will share that and spread a greater appreciation for the biodiversity that really is our salvation if we are to continue to live on this planet.” For Figart, the best part about writing Word from the Smokies has been hearing various perspectives and learning about new topics during interviews. But her favorite pieces have been stories that highlight her neighbors — owls, hawks, weasels, wild turkeys, bobcats, box turtles, and venomous snakes — on the six-acre mountain property where she resides with her husband, John Beaudet, who also gets the spotlight in a chapter featuring his wood carvings honoring black bears. “I am proud to be able to share experts’ hopeful messages for protection and preservation of these animals that deeply inspire them,” Figart said. Among the book’s 24 chapters is an exploration of the true nature of venomous snakes; a reflection on the awe-inspir-

HCC opens outdoor workforce training facility can be reconfigured as the line worker curriculum demands. The large, paved pad area provides space for truck drivers to practice driving, parking, and use of a mock loading dock. The 500-foot straight driving path meets the specifications required for BLET training needs and the covered outdoor pavilion allows a shaded area and restroom facilities for classroom work or practicum debriefs right on site. Those interested in applying at HCC can visit haywood.edu.

outdoors

Haywood Community College in Clyde cut the ribbon on the new outdoor workforce training facility that will be an integral part of numerous educational programs offered at the college. Programs using this new facility include the truck driving program, basic law enforcement training, line worker program, and other courses that require a large area to practice maneuvers or additional space not available elsewhere at HCC or in Haywood County. The dedicated space at the facility features pole locations around the perimeter that

CMC hosts workday at Max Patch

Ten Acre Garden is one of three Haywood County farms participating in ASAP’s farm tour. Donated photo

Haywood farms to participate in ASAP’s farm tour

ing spectacle of the annual elk rut in the Smokies; and a story about the quest to learn more about the mysterious least weasel, which despite being the world’s smallest carnivore pound-for-pound has the strongest jaws of any North American predator. Box turtles, bobcats, and bears all get their moment in the limelight, as do owls, spiders, and Russula mushrooms. The Cherokee tradition of harvesting sochan (also known as green-headed coneflower) is explained, and the impact of a burgeoning effort to keep wildlife safe on Southern Appalachian road crossings is explored. “Taken individually, they teach us about distinct aspects of the living world of the Smokies, but like nature itself, taken all together, these Words show how interconnected the web of life is,” Wells writes in her foreword. Six years after Figart penned the first Word from the Smokies, the column is still going strong and has expanded to include additional authors and topics, and to reach additional audiences. In addition to the Asheville Citizen-Times, Word from the Smokies’ appears regularly in the Beacon

Tribune, Knoxville News Sentinel, Smoky Mountain Living Magazine, and Smoky Mountain News. Each Word also runs on the Smokies Life blog, Smokies LIVE. “Word from the Smokies now reaches tens of thousands of readers weekly,” Figart said. “There is no doubt that working consistently on Word for several years has helped me nurture my own spirit as a creative nonfiction writer and science communicator.” “Word from the Smokies: A Nature Reader” retails for $14.99 and is available in park bookstores and online at smokieslife.org/word-from-the-smokies-anature-reader. Sales of this and other items sold by Smokies Life help support the scientific, historical, and interpretive activities of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. (Holly Kays is the book’s editor and now the primary writer of Word from the Smokies columns. She is the lead writer for the 29,000member Smokies Life, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the park by providing educational products and services such as this column. Learn more at smokieslife.org, or reach the author at hollyk@smokieslife.org.)

Smoky Mountain News

Farms on the tour showcase the diversity of agriculture in the region, from vegetables to livestock, orchards to homesteads. The farm tour features five clusters to help visitors maximize their time at farms, including a Haywood cluster. Tourgoers should select two to four farms to visit each day, spending around an hour at each. Descriptions of farm offerings, plus a map, driving directions and tour tips are available at asapconnections.org/farmtour.

September 9-15, 2026

Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) announced 18 farms participating in the 2026 farm tour, taking place from noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 19–20. Tourgoers will experience working farms through guided and self-guided tours, demonstrations, interactions with farm animals, u-pick fruit and flowers, local food and drink tastings, and more. Spanish-language tours will be offered at several farms. The farm tour is appropriate for attendees of all ages and abilities.

Few places capture the beauty of the Southern Appalachians quite like Max Patch. On Saturday, Sept. 26, CMC volunteers will come together for a special trail workday in celebration of National Public Lands Day. Never volunteered on a trail crew before? This is a great place to start. New volunteers will work alongside experienced trail maintainers, so no previous experience is needed. It’s a fun day outdoors, a chance to meet new people, and a meaningful way to give something back. Come ready to work Max Patch is one of the and leave knowing you crown jewels of the region. made a real difference for File photo one of our region’s most treasured landscapes. Sign up at carolinamountainclub.org/events.

TVA welcomes data centers, but at a price BY KATIE MYERS BLUE RIDGE PUBLIC RADIO The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which covers seven states in the Southeast including a portion of Western North Carolina, just passed a new rate for data centers. At the latest quarterly board meeting for the utility, held in Memphis, Tennessee, the board passed the rate change, while moving forward with its Integrated Resource Plan, a document that outlines its approach to

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September 9-15, 2026

Data centers were a topic of discussion at the latest TVA board meeting. Donated photo

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Puzzles can be found on page 38 These are only the answers.

energy through 2050. This document has been the subject of contention from environmental groups throughout the Tennessee Valley and the utility’s seven-state footprint, which includes North Carolina. The plan drops most of TVA’s already limited investment in solar power and all of its planned investment in wind energy and instead focuses on coal, gas, and nuclear power. The rate change, which goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2026, is expected to be billed at about 10% and phased in over three years. Spokesperson Scott Brooks says the utility has been successful in its efforts to prevent a new rate increase for electricity customers. “One of TVA’s missions is economic development,” Brooks said. “We try to balance that line where we welcome economic development, but, but not at the cost or the expense of people who pay their power bills.” The change includes a new upfront cost for large customers. The utility expects to see its electric load grow to between 9 and

DEQ: Burning trash is illegal Open burning of trash, metal, plastic, and other man-made materials harms the environment, poses a public health risk, and is against state law. The state’s open burning rule limits what can be burned outdoors and when: • Yard waste and commercial land-clearing debris may be burned only from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. No new vegetation may be added after 6 p.m.

33 gigawatts of power by 2040. According to reporting from WPLN, data centers comprised 10% of the electric load for TVA last year. TVA board members are expecting this growth to continue and have justified recent changes in direction as a means of keeping up with this demand. As the utility delays the closures of existing coal plants while investing in a new gas plant in Cheatham County, board members have defended these moves as necessary in order to ensure reliable growth. However, critics say it lengthens their commitment to fossil fuels, which are the main cause of climate change. It also may cause a financial burden — coal plants are expensive to maintain, with the Cumberland Fossil Plant likely upwards of $730 million, by the TVA’s own estimate. “You’re about to be run over by a truck, and instead of taking a big step to get out of the way, TVA took a tiny step that basically still leaves you in the path,” said Stephen Smith, executive director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE), a nonprofit environmental research organization. SACE Energy published an op-ed last week arguing that these choices, made in the name of accommodating anticipated surges in electric load, mean that costs may still be passed onto customers. According to the organization’s research analyst, Maggie Shober, some questions remain to be answered about the change. In the board meeting, the TVA did not give details about whether the change applies to all large customers or just data centers, how it would handle the problem of a stranded asset should a data center close up shop, or how the cost of these data centers might be determined. “Making them only pay 10% more is no guarantee that those costs are not going to be spread onto the customers,” Smith said. This coverage is made possible through a partnership between BPR and Grist, a nonprofit environmental media organization. • Burning is allowed only when the air quality forecast is Code Green or Yellow. Check the Air Quality Portal before burning. • Yard waste must come from the private residence where it is burned. • Yard waste burning is allowed only when permitted by local ordinances and when public yard-debris pickup is unavailable. The N.C. Forest Service may require permits for certain fires. Permits are available through the Forest Service’s online application or local county offices. The Division of Air Quality does not issue burn permits.

Haywood hosts fly rod restoration demonstration

Smokies Life hosts ‘hawk watch’ and illustration workshops

Join the Cataloochee chapter of Trout Unlimited at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, at the Waynesville Recreation Center for a presentation on Bamboo Fly Rod Restoration by noted local craftsman Tommy Thomas. Thomas is a well-known maker of custom fly rods as well as an instructor of fly fishing and fly tying. He will build a three-piece, 7-foot, 9inch bamboo rod made of new and existing components. The rod will have emeraldgreen silks (nylon thread wraps) tipped in chocolate and hand-tied with a two-part high gloss epoxy finish. It will be fitted with a chrome stripping guide and include new mildrum snake guides and Thomas is a well-known maker of Mildrum hook keeper. custom fly rods as well as an Thomas will donate this instructor of fly fishing and fly tying. rod to the Cataloochee Donated photos Chapter. The meeting is free and open to all interested in fishing and conservation of the chapter’s cold-water fishery. For more information, contact the Cataloochee Chapter of Trout Unlimited at tucataloochee427@gmail.com.

Smokies Life continues its 2026 Branch Out events with opportunities to find out about wildlife tracking and hawks. Seasoned birdwatchers and casual bird enthusiasts alike can witness the spectacle of fall migration during Look Rock Hawk Watch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 17 at Foothills Parkway West Overlook 6, Tallassee, Tennessee. Artists of all skill levels are invited to sharpen their observational skills along the Fighting Creek Nature Trail in the Sugarlands

area of the park near Gatlinburg during the Ecological Illustration Workshop from 9-11 a.m. on Sept. 19, at the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg. This event is hosted by this year’s writer Steve Kemp and illustrator in residence, Laurie McDowell. Cost for Branch Out events for Park Keepers is $45. To join and attend cost is $85 (Park Keeper basic membership $40 and event registration $45). Participation fees are essential in helping to cover the costs associated with planning and hosting. All additional revenue supports the projects and services of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For more information and additional events, see smokieslife.org/branch-out-events or email membership@smokieslife.org.

Birding in Franklin The Franklin Bird Club leads walks along the greenway on Wednesday mornings at 8 a.m. through September. Walks start at alternating locations: Macon County Public Library, Big Bear Park, and Salali Lane. Walks are about two and a half hours. The public is welcome. All walks are weather dependent. Schedule for upcoming walks: • Sept. 16, meet at Big Bear parking lot near the dog park area. • Sept. 23, meet at the Salali Lane parking lot. • Sept. 30, meet at the Macon County Library parking lot. A full schedule and directions to each starting location can be found at facebook.com/groups/franklinbirdclub or littletennessee.org/franklin-bird-club.

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FELINE FROM AFAR ACROSS 1 More serious, as a matter 7 It’s hidden by head hair 12 Quivered 20 Sure to succeed, as a proposition 21 Marisa of “Cyrus” 22 Cesar Ritz or Conrad Hilton 23 Immediately 24 Of the hipbone 25 With great happiness 26 Start of a riddle 29 Breathe hard and fast 30 Seat of Kansas’ Allen County 31 Whale like Shamu 35 Bouncer’s age- verifying duty 39 -- Park (site of Edison’s lab) 41 Shock absorbers, of sorts 44 Riddle, part 2 47 Overly affected 48 Two, in Spain 49 Certain blood type, in brief 50 Quantity: Abbr. 51 Egyptian sun god 53 Fiber-yielding plant 56 Charlotte -- (rich dessert) 58 Erwin of old films 61 Web portal since ‘95 62 Riddle, part 3 66 Mailed, e.g. 68 Pen name 70 Tiny, informally 71 Riddle, part 4 74 Really binges, briefly 77 Atlanta-to-Tampa dir.

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 34

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Pets .,77(16 Asheville Humane Society has kittens available for adoption; all 2-6 months old and cute as can be! Fee includes vaccinations and spay/neuter. (828) 761-2001 adoptions@ ashevillehumane.org

0,66< Hound mix — brown & black. 8 years old; sweet, goofy girl. Loves kids and other dogs. Rides well in car. Asheville Humane Society (828) 761-2001 adoptions@ ashevillehumane.org

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