Admin
To The Editor:
I want to commend The Smoky Mountain News for reporting on issues that are not popular. The Haywood Emergency Physician’s case took courage to write about a few years back and the paper risked hard-to-earn cash dollars from advertisements. The paper did lose those dollars and it persevered. I hope the new leaders at Haywood Regional Medical Center will take note and continue to advertise in The Smoky Mountain News.
In a small town where all enjoy the warmth and kindness of a community there is also the bad entangled with good. We all live with that in our lives. As we seek to be better citizens in our community, it is important to know we have a newspaper willing to shine the light on some of the dark or confusing places. Thank you Smoky Mountain News.
Margaret Osondu
Waynesville
By George Ivey • Guest Columnist
Many years ago on Capitol Hill, a politician said to me, “George, as you get older, the world feels colder, and you’ll like the idea of global warming. And it’s a lot easier than moving to Florida.” At the time, I thought he was kidding.
I’m not nearly as old now as he was then, but after last year’s endless snow and cold and much of the same this winter, I’m starting to agree with him.
Maybe you wonder if I’m kidding, too.
Sure, some people see one snowflake and declare global warming to be a myth. Others say “global warming” is the wrong term altogether; we should call it “global climate change,” because some places will get hotter, while others get colder. I’ve tended to accept that theory, but honestly, I never really understood why a hotter world would make some places colder.
That all changed when my fiancée and I visited the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute near Rosman last spring. The PARI campus formerly served NASA and the Department of Defense in their satellite tracking and data collection efforts. Now the facility hosts people of all ages to advance the study of astronomy, science, and more. That particular evening, Jim Reynolds, an associate professor of biology at Brevard College and former Fulbright scholar, turned around everything I thought I knew about global climate change.
The key take-away message is this: be afraid, very afraid, especially if you don’t like snow and ice.
Reynolds reviewed the standard theory about an increase in greenhouse gasses trapping the earth’s energy, in turn causing glaciers and sea ice to melt, in turn causing sea levels to rise, among other things. But he was just, uh, warming up, you might say.
Reynolds then detailed how the melting sea ice; Earth’s varying orbit, tilt, and wobble; the movement of the oceans’ waters; and the planet’s predominant wind patterns might combine forces to launch a very sudden ice age — perhaps in less than 20 years. It’s the same basic concept as the “lake effect” snows of the Great Lakes, but on a much grander scale.
Reynolds covers far more theories and data than I can possibly try to explain in a short newspaper column, such as Croll-Milankovitch cycles and thermohaline circulation. Fortunately, for those of you who want to learn more, Reynolds has posted his entire PowerPoint presentation on his webpage: www2.brevard.edu/reynoljh/.
I’m glad we have people like Reynolds and places like PARI around here to help us learn more about the world beyond our little mountain valleys — even if what they present scares me a little.
Of course, one cold, snowy winter might prove to be the exception rather than the rule, but now that we’ve had two in a row, I’m wondering if Florida might be in my future after all.
(George Ivey lives in Haywood County and is a consultant and author of the novel Up River. Contact him at www.georgeivey.com.)
Winners of the Commission for a Clean County’s 10th-annual awards were announced recently.
The Community Pride program honors businesses, community groups, civic clubs, schools and individuals (both adults and children) for exceptional efforts in the categories of litter pick-up and control, recycling, beautification of public areas and environmental stewardship.
The latter category includes energy conservation, cleaning of air, use of biofuels, “green” building and other methods of nurturing our environment.
The winners were:
• James Mashburn, Clyde alderman, for his dedicated service in aiding the revitalization of the Town of Clyde.
• Katie Finegan, recent Tuscola graduate, for outstanding environmental work enhancing the safety and aesthetic appeal of her church, St. Johns, in Waynesville.
• David Raulerson and sister-in-law Teresa Raulerson, for their continuous litter pick-up along N.C. 276 and for landscaping the Cruso Community Center.
• Plus Linen, owned by Gary Harkins, for excellent, committed environmental stewardship in the Canton plant.
• Sue Pendley, for devotedly both supervising and working on the annual Maggie Valley Fall Days decorations along five miles of Maggie Valley.
• The Master Gardener Volunteers, and their Coordinator Tim Matthews, for the oversight and management of three school gardens and for supplying both the plants and work in landscaping the county’s extension center.
• The Evergreen Circle Community and the Sonoma Masonic Lodge No. 472 for showing true “community pride” through long hours, hard work and expense rehabilitating the property of a neighbor in need.
This year, Mast General Store will contribute $1 to MANNA FoodBank for each pound of candy purchased on Feb. 12 and 13. The eighth annual Be a Sweetheart, Feed the Hungry event is designed to raise awareness of hunger and help everyone have a meal this Valentine’s day.
828.299.3663.
Haywood County Animal Services officers are canvassing the Beaverdam community in search of stray animals, after hikers discovered a rabid raccoon in the area on Jan. 30.
The raccoon tested positive for rabies, after being killed following a fight with the hikers’ dogs.
Rabies is a fatal disease in humans, and residents in the Beaverdam area are encouraged to take steps to limit exposure of both humans and pets.
Animal Services at 828.456.5338 or the Health Department at 828.452.6675.
A six-part seminar series on financial management and updated business strategies is being offered by the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce and Asheville consulting firm BluePrints for Business. The seminars, sponsored by Champion Credit Union, Waynesville, will run six Thursday mornings beginning Feb. 10 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center.
Register at www.haywood-nc.com.
The third-annual Mardi Gras dance, sponsored by Old Town Bank to benefit the Haywood County Schools Foundation, will be held at the Gateway Club March 5.
This will be an evening of fun, food, pageantry and dance.
A limited number of tickets are available. The tickets cost $100 each. The proceeds will be used to recruit and retain highly qualified employees in Haywood County Schools. Last year, the Haywood County Schools Foundation provided the school system more than $40,000.
828.456.3006 or 828.456.2400.
The League of Women Voters of Macon County will play host to Macon County Manager Jack Horton and Commission Chair Brian McClellan Feb 10 at noon.
McClellan and Horton will discuss projects, plans, issues and the county’s economy. They plan to accept and answer questions.
The program will be held at Tartan Hall in Franklin. Lunch is available by reservation. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828.371.0527.
The Leopold Land Ethics Leaders Program will hold a conservation discussion and training session from 7 to 9 p.m. on March 8 at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva.
The program is rooted in renowned conservationists Aldo Leopold’s developing a personal land ethic.
The training, facilitated by Jackson and Swain County Extension Agent Robert Hawk, directly addresses the issue of ecological problems by offering a chance to explore, question and reaffirm beliefs, deepening commitments to conservation and communities through conservation literature, conservation work project and group discussion.
828.586.4009 or 828.488.3848 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Healthy Carolinians of Macon County will launch a telephone survey of 400 county residents starting next week.
The question to be answered: Is the health of Macon County getting better or worse?
The survey is part of a comprehensive health assessment under way by the Healthy Carolinians group with the assistance of Stiles Healthcare Strategy, a health-care consulting organization based in Chattanooga, Tenn. The assessment also includes interviews and focus groups with community representatives and health providers.
The 2011 survey will be a follow up to one conducted in 2007, said Kathy McGaha, program director of the Healthy Carolinians of Macon County.
“The telephone study will give us an opportunity to hear from a large number of local residents, evaluate where we are on a number of health issues and measure our progress over the past few years,” she said.
Completing the survey will require 15 to 20 minutes. Bilingual interviewers will be involved to facilitate participation by Spanish-speaking residents.
The 16-member search committee tasked with helping select Western Carolina University’s next chancellor has developed a list of questions it will use to choose long-time chancellor John Bardo’s replacement.
The questions will cover a range of topics gleaned from November’s public forums, held for faculty, staff, students, alumni, community members and fans.
The goal is to have a new chancellor named and ready to lead the university by July 1.
Annie Lough, a nationally known folk musician, will give a talk and musical presentation on Appalachian musical heritage and culture at Lake Junaluska.
The program will be held Thursday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m. in the Bethea Welcome Center. The public is invited to this Live and Learn program.
Lough is an instructor at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, and a frequent presenter. She is a performer of traditional music, the dulcimer, folklore, dances and stories. Lough is dedicated to the preservation of the traditional music and heritage of our mountain region as well as or country.
828.452.2881 ext. 540.
NAMI Family-to-Family Education, a free, 12-session program for relatives and friends of people diagnosed with a mental illness, will be offered from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, starting March 8 in Franklin.
Sponsored by NAMI Appalachian South, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the course provides up-to-date information about bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, clinical depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder and other mental illnesses.
Trained family members teach the course, which balances education and skills training with self-care, emotional support and empowerment.
Confidentiality is maintained.
Ann at 828.369.7385, Debbie at 912.481.2339, or Carl 706.746.5139.
Elementary school-aged children and their families are invited to a free ARTSaturday arts and crafts workshop hosted by the Macon County Arts Council at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12, at the Franklin library.
The Council provides all materials and instruction for make-and-take projects including Valentine collage cards and hearts and beads jewelry. There will also be live music by keyboardist Lionel Caynon, coloring projects and a special Valentine’s party for kids at 11 a.m.
828.524.7683 or www.artscouncilofmacon.org
Singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton will give a free concert at 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, at Western Carolina University.
Carlton is best known for her song “A Thousand Miles,” and has been nominated for two Grammy Awards and an American Music Award.
She was selected to perform by WCU students who were polled on different artists they would like to see in concert on campus.
828.227.7206.
The next Second Sunday Contra Dance will be on Sunday, Feb.13, at the Barkers Creek Community Building on U.S. 441 three miles north of Dillsboro.
Dancing will go from 3 to 5 p.m. followed by a potluck dinner at 6 p.m. The dance is free, but dancers are asked to bring a covered dish, plate, cup and cutlery and a water bottle, and donations are encouraged.
No experience is required; all dances will be taught and walked through before dancing.
Ron Arps at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Civil War re-enactor Randal Garrison will speak on the Shelton Laurel Massacre in Madison County at this month’s Western North Carolina Roundtable at 7 p.m. on Feb. 14 on the second floor of the Justice Center in Sylva.
Garrison is a high school teacher and instructor at Western Piedmont College on the subject of the Civil War.
Currently, he holds the rank of major with the 26th NC Reactivated Civil War Regiment.
Chuck at 828.456.4212 or Chris at 828.293.9314.
A half-day post-production photography clinic with Bob Grytten will show photographers how to work with photos after they’re taken.
The $45 class will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb 16, at the Waynesville Old Armory Rec.
Participants can also bring their own computers to learn more about photo editing software.
Discounts are available for Lens Luggers who have previously taken Rec Center workshops with Grytten.
828.627.0245.
A Valentine’s Day Open House Arts and Crafts Festival will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, in the Community Service Center in Sylva. The event will be hosted by the Jackson County Extension and Community Association and crafters will be on hand to demonstrate and exhibit items that will be made in 2011 ECA Craft Club workshops, such as crystal acetate lacquer cards, stepping stones, and baskets.
There will also be a crafter’s exchange for unwanted books and craft supplies.
828.586.4009
Second City, the world-famous improvisational comedy troupe, is bringing its show ‘Fair and Unbalanced’ to Western Carolina University’s Fine and Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17.
Originally formed in Chicago in 1959, Second City has since built its reputation as a major starting point for aspiring comedians, actors, writers and directors.
Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 for WCU students. The show is intended for audience members 18 or older.
828.227.2479
Children of all ages are invited to a Fancy Nancy Valentines Party from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 14, at the Marianna Black Library in Bryson City. Fancy Nancy is a popular picture book series written by Jane O’Connor. Children can make cards, play games, and much more at the party. 828.488.3030 or www.fontanalib.org/brysoncity.
The N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Good Cooks Series will continue with a Native American flair at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 11, in the Conference Room of the Community Service Center in Sylva.
Jennifer Siweumptewa, an assistant in the Culinary Arts Department at Southwestern Community College, will demonstrate the art of making Indian fry bread.
Fry bread is a specialty of many Southwest Indians tribes (mainly Navajo and Hopi) and is often enjoyed with savory foods or drizzled with honey and enjoyed as a sweet.
Cost for the class is $5. 828.586.4009 to register.
The DAYDREAMZ project and Kids at Work, two local non-profit organizations, are offering an afternoon of community baking and creating sweet treats for underprivileged.
“heART,” a community baking event will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Open Door Kitchen/ at 32 Commerce St. in Frog Level.
Bring rolling pins, cookie cutters, cookie sheets, baking pans, measuring cups and spoons (to use while we bake) and friends and family members.
Ingredients needed, if you can spare, are flour (unbleached if possible), sugar (white, brown and powdered), eggs, oil and butter (only the real thing), cream, chocolate chips and bakers chocolate (semi-sweet), rice crispies cereal, marshmallow or fluff, cookie decorations (sprinkles and such).
The purpose is to have fun and make and bake sweet treats for local seniors, the homeless, and others in need to remind them they too are cared about on Valentine’s Day. For more information or to donate ingredients or funds call 828.456.3952 or 828.454.5165.
A new exhibit featuring research and displays developed by the Appalachian Women’s Museum in Dillsboro is now open for public viewing at Western Carolina University’s Mountain Heritage Center.
The exhibit addresses topics such as the evolution of canning technology, the community legacy of Edna and Edith Monteith of Dillsboro, and the accomplishments of notable Jackson County women such as famed traditional musician Samantha Biddix Baumgarner and pioneer political figure Gertrude Dills McKee. Exhibit topics have been enhanced with images and artifacts from the Mountain Heritage Center, the office of Special Collections of WCU’s Hunter Library, and family members of the individuals featured.
The exhibit will remain on display at the Mountain Heritage Center through Wednesday, June 8.
Located on the ground floor of H.F. Robinson Administration Building, the center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays (and until 8 p.m. Thursdays) and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, June through October.
For more information, call the Mountain Heritage Center at 828.227.7129 or visit www.wcu.edu/mhc.
By DeeAnna Haney • SMN Intern
All it took was a knack for guitar playing and a single visit to Nashville, Tenn., to spur a lifelong passion in one Tuscola High School senior’s life.
Singer/songwriter MacKenzie Leigh Wilson recently released her first extended play record in January featuring four original songs. With rhythms as bouncy and lively as her personality, the record is just a small taste of what Wilson has to offer.
The young musician moved to Western North Carolina from Charlotte two years ago when her father Chuck Wilson, a minister, transferred to Long’s Chapel United Methodist Church.
Although Wilson describes a childhood full of singing in church and community choirs, she admits she never considered pursuing it as a career. But a family vacation to Nashville for her 16th birthday ignited inspiration to try her hand at songwriting.
Since her fateful visit to Nashville, Wilson has written more than 60 songs.
“My mind is constantly spinning with new song ideas,” Wilson said. “That’s what I love so much about songwriting, you can write anywhere, anytime.”
She often writes songs when inspiration hits, and will sometimes not write for weeks at a time, she said. Other times, she may write multiple songs in one week. One thing is certain — she writes best when alone without distractions.
Even though Wilson started playing guitar at age 15, she didn’t find a true love for the instrument until she started writing her own material. Her guitar instructor, Larry Watson, was immediately impressed by Wilson’s raw talent and dedication to her music.
When it came to “teaching,” Watson only provided a little guidance on music theory and chord progressions.
“When you take someone like MacKenzie who’s already talented, you don’t have to do a whole lot because they grab it really quick,” Watson said.
Taking her talent to the stage, Wilson has performed locally, is a member of Summit choral group at Tuscola High School and won the local talent competition “Haywood Idol” in 2009.
But you won’t catch Wilson performing many covers of other musicians. While she admires and draws inspiration from many famous names — including Michelle Branch, Sara Bareilles, and Loretta Lynn — Wilson seeks to set her writing style and vocals apart from others.
“There’s something about when you’re playing your own songs and when you’re singing your own song, it’s just so different than just covering someone else’s,” Wilson said.
With an evident country twang and soulful, upbeat melodies, Wilson’s overall musical style is a country-pop hybrid sound akin to a mix of traditional Patsy Cline and contemporary LeAnn Rimes. She also draws inspiration from folk, bluegrass and classic rock to create her unique sound.
Wilson’s songs typically aim to reflect who she is as a person and where she is in life, with themes of young love, heartache and growing up.
“I am much more honest with my music than I am in real life — it’s much easier for me to put things in a song than it is to just sit down and talk to someone,” Wilson said
With the help of Watson, Wilson decided to explore creating an extended play record at Crossroads Records in Arden. Known mainly for bluegrass recordings, Crossroads Records has produced albums for such popular artists as the Kingdom Heirs, The McKameys and The Greenes.
Having never spent time in a studio, Wilson had no idea what to expect of the project and began knowing only which four original songs she wanted to record.
Wilson first recorded a base track with raw vocals and guitar, then the studio band built on the original to complete the sound. She went back and added her own harmonies.
The four songs range from ballads to energetic country, offering a balanced sound each with strong commercial appeal. The most popular so far, Wilson said, is “She Plays You,” a fresh take on the story of the girl who wants to be noticed.
“I kinda say that that’s like my anthem because I’m the girl who goes home and plays guitar, not the girl who is out chasing boys,” Wilson said.
And just like the lyrics from her slower, more emotional song, “Tennessee,” Wilson says, “Carolina’s in my heart but it’s time for a new start.” She plans to attend Belmont University in Nashville in the fall of 2011 and hopes to major in songwriting. She wants to take piano and mandolin classes while she is there.
But Wilson’s main goal in Nashville is not to achieve fame and fortune. Instead, she is most excited about being able to interact and work with fellow songwriters and hopes to learn new techniques and become stronger in her craft.
Of her future, Watson predicts great success.
“She is an extremely talented person and no one person could take the credit for anything she’s done,” Watson said. “I was just fortunate enough to get to help her.”
Wilson believes in the importance of having an identity as an artist and hopes to gain more sense of her own as she continues to write, perform, record and evolve. In the meantime, she intends to finish her senior year and enjoy being a high school student.
“I’m just like every other high school girl out there, I’m just the girl who goes home every day and writes songs about it,” Wilson said. “I want to stay that girl.”
In the hunt for an informal camping club with no annual dues and no actual meetings except for actually going to campouts? Check out the Vagabonds, which is now seeking new members.
While there are no planned activities, members do sometimes get together to play cards or games or horseshoes. And they share a love of the outdoors, good conversation, fellowship and roaring campfires.
A schedule for upcoming campouts for the second weekend of each month, March through November, is being compiled now. For March, the group is looking for a campground out of the mountain area that has an indoor room for use by the group. Otherwise, campgrounds chosen are generally within 100 miles of Franklin, in states bordering North Carolina.
Each participant receives a camping schedule and makes their respective reservations.
828.369.6669 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The U.S. Forest Service is distributing free copies of a new guide, titled “A Management Guide for Invasive Plants in Southern Forests,” that gives homeowners, gardeners, land managers and others information on controlling and removing invasive plants in the South.
“The guide provides the latest information on how to create and carry out prevention programs, implement management practices, and rehabilitate and restore land,” said Jim Miller, an emeritus Southern Research Station research ecologist based in Auburn, Ala., and lead author of the book. “The guide serves as a staple for foresters, natural resource managers and others who want to remove invasive plants that have become a serious problem in the 13 southern states.”
Invasive plants often harm forests and other natural areas by pushing out native plants, which degrades habitat and adversely affects wildlife. Exotic plants often reduce forest productivity, native plant and animal diversity, and water quality and quantity.
Get free copies of “A Management Guide for Invasive Plants in Southern Forests” by sending your name and complete mailing address, along with book title, author and publication number GTR-SRS-131 to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828.257.4830.
Runners can register now for one of Western North Carolina’s most storied summer road races.
Registration for the Maggie Valley Moonlight Race opened this Feb. 1, and continues through race day, Saturday, Aug. 27. The fee to participate in this 8K race is $25 through July 30 and $30 during August.
“After a two-year absence, Glory Hound Events is proud to bring the Moonlight Race back to the Western North Carolina running scene,” Greg Duff, race organizer, said. “Runners should be pleased to know that we are planning to restore some of the traditions of the past, as well as incorporate some modern aspects for the 30th running.”
The Maggie Valley Chamber of Commerce will host the evening race, which starts at the Maggie Valley Fairgrounds and uses the same course as in 2008.
That course takes runners 1.2 miles up the valley to Ghost Town, then 2.4 miles in the opposite direction, before returning them 1.2 miles to the finish line back at the fairgrounds.
Major sponsors for the returning Moonlight Race to date include Mission Health Systems and The Smoky Mountain News. All event information, including a link to online registration, is available at www.maggievalleymoonlightrun.com.
Wild South, a regional nonprofit that works to restore the South’s natural landscapes, wants help on accessing wildlife resources.
An online survey has been set up at: www.wildsouth.org/index.php/component/content/article/3-newsflash/400-wildlife-survey.
Wild South says concerns regarding wildlife resources have arisen, including: illegal activities, human/wildlife conflicts, habitat loss and habitat management. The purpose of the WNC Wildlife Advocates’ survey through Wild South is to seek solutions to protect the region’s wildlife, and educate the public on responsible behaviors that minimize conflicts. The survey is designed to identify priorities for action and to explore potential solutions that the group will champion in the future.
The Swain County Cooperative Extension is now taking orders for 3- to 4-foot apple, pear and peach trees, along with three-year old blueberry and two-year old grape varieties.
Prices are $12 for the apple, pear and peach trees and $8 for the grapes and blueberries. All plant material will arrive bare-rooted.
Money raised will be put into the Swain County 4-H Fund for local youth scholarships.
Mail completed order form and payment to: Swain County 4-H Fund, PO Box 2329, Bryson City, N.C., 28713
All orders and checks must be received by Wednesday, Feb. 9. The shipment will arrive at the Swain office on Wednesday, March 2.
828.488.3848.
The Commissioners of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission unanimously adopted a resolution recently reaffirming the agency’s longstanding support for hunting with the use of dogs.
“We support the use of dogs in hunting in North Carolina where such hunting is consistent with the sound conservation of our state’s treasured wildlife resources and not contrary to the protection of the private property rights of its citizens,” said Gordon Myers, executive director of the commission. “Hunting with dogs is part of a centuries old tradition in North Carolina and the members of the Wildlife Resources Commission determined that it was important to clarify their position regarding those practices.”
The partnership of hunters and hunting dogs, commissioners affirmed, has long been a central thread of North Carolina hunting culture, and thousands of hunters – young and old – use dogs to pursue grouse and quail, waterfowl and woodcock, deer and bear, rabbits and squirrels, and foxes and bobcats, and raccoons and opossums.
“The members of the Wildlife Resources Commission looks forward to continuing its successful record of working with multiple partners to provide opportunities for hunters to use dogs on state and private lands where feasible and appropriate,” said Commission Chairman Steve Windham.
For more information on hunting in North Carolina or for a copy of the resolution, visit www.ncwildlife.org.
The Sylva Community Garden project is seeking new members to join for the upcoming season. Plots of 15-feet by 30-feet are available for free in downtown Sylva. Gardeners participating must agree to donate at least one-half of the produce grown to The Community Table in Sylva (or others in need), providing fresh, local, organic produce to help feed members of the community. Tools, mulch, compost and water are provided to all gardeners. Contact Ann Tiner at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or 828.226.1885 for additional information and an application. Or, search for search for The Sylva Community Garden on Facebook.
Also, there is space in the community garden at the Monteith Farmstead in Dillsboro. Plots are available for a $20 fee. Contact Ron Arps at 828.586.5478 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Local author Ron Rash will hold a reading at City Lights in Sylva to celebrate the paperback release of his short story collection, Burning Bright, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 13
Rash teaches writing at WCU and is an award-winning author of several celebrated novels including Serena and The World Made Straight. He will launch the paperback edition of Burning Bright with this appearance at City Lights.
Signed copies can be reserved for those unable to attend. 828.586.9499
To the Editor:
Recently the National Science Foundation (NSF) granted Professor Thomas Ford (WCU) and Associate Professor Julie Woodzicka (Washington and Lee University) $300,000.00 to research how sexist humor contributes to imbalanced relations between men and women. Naturally it’s assumed that men have the sexist attitudes and women are the victims of it. The participants in this project will perform such tasks necessary to help the researchers determine how exposure to sexist humor affects perceptions of women and discrimination against them.
The NSF was established by Congress in 1950 with an initial allocation of $225,000. and a “strict budget cap” of $15 million. Like all government agencies, it’s grown over these 60 years and its bloated budget is now in the billions, $6.78 billion in 2010, to be exact. Yes, these are our tax dollars.
We in America live under an overpowering double standard in respect to sexism. I’m fond of the abstract analogy that if a man stands naked in a window and a woman sees him, he’ll be arrested for indecent exposure. If a woman stands naked in a window and a man sees her, he’ll be arrested for being a “Peeping Tom.”
Discrimination, prejudice, bigotry, racism, sexism, narrow-mindedness, all exist in our society. It’s unfortunate but none-the-less, they’re part of the human condition.
David L. Snell
Dillsboro
To the Editor:
Fox News seems to be playing in public places all over Haywood County — restaurants, bars, even the lobby of my favorite fitness center. I am troubled that the divisive message of Fox News is further polarizing our country at a time we all need to be pulling together.
The largest shareholder of News Corporation, the parent of Fox, is Rupert Murdoch, an Australian. The second largest shareholder is Prince Alwaleed bin Talal al-Saud of Saudi Arabia. I do not believe that these owners are acting in the best interests of America.
All the 24-hour cable news networks jump on controversy to increase ratings, but the others are not as one-sided as Fox. It seems to me that Fox creates controversy by pitting groups of people against one another — white against black, US-born against immigrant, Christian against Muslim, gay against straight, Republican against Democrat.
Some of their hosts spout irresponsible anti-government speech, which can and has incited unstable viewers to violence.
There is no question that Fox News has a right to broadcast what they do. The First Amendment protects us all from government efforts to suppress speech. But consumers, businesses, and other establishments can and should decide whether or not they want to be a part of what Fox is doing.
Why not air the Weather Channel in public places? This would be a non-controversial public service and not provide a vehicle for attempts to divide America, except for warm versus cold and snow versus sun.
Carole Larivee
Waynesville
To the Editor:
As usual, your paper continues to cover important issues of our area that others largely ignore, but I feel I must call attention to a recent blunder.
After seeing your front page titled “Room to Row,”(SMN cover, Jan. 26 issue) I had to let out an audible groan. As one of the few rowers west of Asheville, I’ve found myself (more than a few times) having to explain the difference between rowing and kayaking. One does not ROW a kayak, canoe or raft; they are PADDLED. A rower propels a boat backward using oars, not a paddle. Also, a row boat needs flat water, such as a lake or deep river.
Although I can appreciate the play on words the title was obviously meant to be, it only adds to the misconception that many people have about the often misunderstood sport of rowing! If any of your readers would like to know more about rowing, I would recommend www.usrowing.org as a starting place.
Bruce Buchanan
Sylva
To the Editor:
The title of Scott Muirhead’s op-ed on Frog Level (“A place where two worlds collide,” The Smoky Mountain News, Jan. 25) lures us with a deceptively disingenuous, “A place where two worlds collide head on.” Search as we might, his casually crafted narrative loses focus; and as a consequence, he fails to establish any collision whatsoever. But he has opinion to express, so let’s forgive him his elusive title and move on.
As we do, we discover the world of “the winos and the junkies and the ne’er-do-wells.” Joining them in their world is the “waver” for whom Muirhead dismissively opines that “most people would feel sorry for the waver, thinking him deprived, I don’t.”
The only collision here is between Muirhead’s openly declared values and what he undocumentedly infers to be those of “most other people.”
His noble justification for such callous disregard is that while the waver is “going nowhere,” Muirhead is “headed to the courthouse to pay another tax on my little bundle of burdens” or to some “insurance agency” or “bank” to make a deposit.
Muirhead then suggests that he must bear the burden of “Worry and Stress” while inferring that Frog Level’s citizens have immunity from any such burdens.
Finally, like Napoleon, who beckoned the Pope only to make him stand aside while he crowned himself Emperor, Muirhead distinguishes himself from Frog Level’s denizens by declaring that he and most of us are “enlightened and aware and playing by all the rules.” Speak for yourself, Muirhead; for you speak not for me!
Tom Ezell
Waynesville
Editor’s note: For the record, the headline for Muirhead’s article last week was written by editors, not Muirhead.
The one-woman show “The Last Flapper” comes to Waynesville’s HART Studio this month, portraying the life of Zelda Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald, wife of author F. Scott Fitzgerald, spent the final years of her life in Asheville’s Highland Mental Hospital. She died in a fire that swept through the facility in 1948. During the early years of her stay, her husband would come to visit and stay at the Grove Park Inn.
The play is based on her writings and was created by playwright William Luce in 1987.
Performances will run at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 4 and 5, and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 6. Tickets are $8 for all adults and $5 for students.
828.456 6322.
Auditions will be held for “Shipwrecked,” the latest production of the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday and Monday, Feb. 6 and 7, in Waynesville’s Performing Arts Center at the Shelton House.
The show is based on a true story and the small ensemble will create a 19th century world on land and sea on a mostly bare stage.
Anyone interested in working on stage in the cast, as part of the crew or assisting in any way is encouraged to stop by during the auditions. The show will run April 1-10.
Free knitting classes for both children and adults are ramping up at the Waynesville Public Library, courtesy of the Smoky Mountain Knitting Guild. Classes for children, ages 8 through 12, are forming now, and will meet at the library on Tuesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. beginning Feb. 1.
Class size is limited and registration is required. For children unable to attend the Tuesday classes at the Library, Guild members are involved in the Central Elementary School’s after-school program, and are teaching interested students in the afternoon.
The adult classes – for both beginning and returning knitters – will meet from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesdays beginning Feb. 8. Both child and adult classes will run through April 26.
828.246.0789 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Western Carolina Community Chorus will begin rehearsals of Francis Poulenc’s “Gloria” from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 6.
Experienced singers interested in joining the chorus should attend the initial session which will be held in the Western Carolina University choral room, 357 Coulter Building, on the Cullowhee campus. Rehearsals will continue weekly in preparation for the concert, Sunday, April 3 in the Western Carolina University Fine and Performing Arts Center.
828.293.5589.
A special Valentine’s Market will be held by the Jackson County Winter Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Sylva.
The market will feature items like strawberry champagne jam, raspberry chocolate jam and roasted garlic and onion jam as well as pies, breads, dog treats, locally raised pork, trout, quail eggs and much more.
Also available will be a selection of crafts and a free Valentine’s craft/card-making table for children of all ages.
Local actress Barbara Bates Smith will bring her one-woman show “The C-Word: A Life-Meets-Art Cancer Story” to St. David’s Episcopal church at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19 .
“The C-Word: A Life-Meets-Art Cancer Story” is a frank, humorous and poignant story of her role in the Pulitzer-Prize-winning play “Wit,” the story of her own breast cancer and her close relationship to a Hospice cancer patient.
Jeff Sebens, a musician and instrument craftsman, will provide hammered dulcimer musical accompaniment.
Barbara and her husband, Russell, live near Clyde, and in addition to touring Smith plays several instruments.
The performance is free. Donations for the new Jackson County Public Library Complex will be accepted at the door.
828.293.3439 or www.barbarabatessmith.com
Valentine’s treats will be cooked up in Frog Level through a community baking event sponsored by the Daydreamz Project and Kids at Work.
The baking will take place at Open Door Kitchen at Frog Level in Waynesville from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 10
The goal is to create sweets and treats for folks in local homeless shelters, senior convalescent hospitals and rehabilitation centers on behalf of Valentine’s Day.
828.454.5165 or 828.456.3952.
Children’s storytime takes on a Valentine’s theme at the Jackson County Library this month with Valentine stories and a party. The fun begins at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 8.
Children are asked to bring 20 valentines with “From: (the Child’s Name)” to exchange with storytime friends, and a snack for all to share.
This will be the last storytime in the current library.
The 12th annual Taste of Chocolate is coming to Waynesville and the Haywood-Jackson Volunteer Center is seeking volunteers. They’re seeking friendly self-starters who are comfortable approaching local businesses to request sponsorships and donations for the event.
The Taste of Chocolate will be held on April 30. 828.356.2833.
To the Editor:
I thoroughly agree that it is past time to wake up, get Jackson County moving.” For too long we have relied upon the national and state governments to provide leadership and direction for us in Jackson County and Western North Carolina. It is past time that we came together and charted our own economic future. One of the leaders in this economic renaissance is Timm Muth, the director of Jackson County’s Green Energy Park (JCGEP).
Commissioners, I appreciate your taking a look at various county departments for efficiency, effectiveness, and fiscal responsibility. It is important for our county representatives to promote open, honest, accountable, and fiscally responsible government at all levels. Otherwise, we might as well hold out a tin cup to Washington, D.C., and Raleigh and be grateful for the pennies that we do get back from the dollars that we send them.
Muth appeared before you on Jan. 3 of this year asking for a replacement to his departing assistant. You asked him some pointed questions and made the excellent suggestion that he produce a cost-benefit analysis study so as to better show you how the JCGEP benefits all of Jackson County.
I went to the JCGEP a few days before your Jan. 18 meeting and had Muth show me what he has done, what he is doing, and what he wants to do with his operation. Frankly gentlemen, the benefits of the JCGEP for the county are impressive. Capturing methane gas from the old Dillsboro landfill and using it to create viable, tax-paying, private-sector jobs is no small feat.
According to a study just recently released by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (www.p2pays.org/ref/-53.52107.pdf), there are currently over 15,000 private sector jobs that have been created to recycle valuable materials here in North Carolina. These private sector jobs, which have been promoted by operations such as the JCGEP, have increased by 4.8% since 2008. The total annual payroll for these recycling jobs in North Carolina is $395 million. There are numerous other benefits created from these public-private partnerships.
What Muth has done at the JCGEP not only is currently paying economic dividends for the investment that our county is contributing, it also has the strong probability of promoting many more private-sector jobs, tourism dollars, and tax monies to return to the citizens of Jackson County.
In the coming weeks and months we’ll be talking more about the JCGEP and the unique, positive benefits that it creates for Jackson County. In the meantime I would urge all of you commissioners to call Timm Muth, invest a little of your time going to the JCGEP, and find out the many positive benefits generated there. Remember, gentlemen, that these benefits that you will see are not in the future, but they are occurring right here and now in Jackson County.
Carl Iobst
Cullowhee
Mountain Bizworks wants to help farmers and would-be farmers looking to turn an idea into a practical business plan.
The ag-biz foundations course will cover key elements every business plan needs, including writing a mission; financial planning and resources; and marketing. An informational session about the course is set for Feb. 3 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Bethel Eden Farm Market on Pisgah Drive in Canton.
The project is supported by the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
828.631.0292 orThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
A mandate to cut electricity use in state government buildings has saved North Carolina tax payers $55.3 million last fiscal year.
The state law passed in 2003 required public buildings to reduce water and power use by 20 percent by 2010 and 30 percent by 2015.
Since the law passed, the state has saved more than $325 million.
“These savings are very significant, especially during these times when all of us need to make sure we are getting the most out of every dollar - particularly taxpayer dollars,” said NC Department of Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco.
Among universities, Western Carolina University was the first to hit the target and did so two years early.
Co-ed soccer for adults will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday nights starting Jan. 26 at the Old Hazelwood Gym in Waynesville.
The soccer games are organized by Haywood County Recreation and Parks Department.
The cost is $3 per session, or $20 for a season pass. The soccer games will be held through March 30th. Beginners are welcome to participate. Teams are picked at the beginning of each game.
828.452.6789 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
