said Lucretia Stargell of WestCare Health. Smaller hospitals, such as WestCare have been struggling

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1 SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Volume 131, No. 2 Bryson City, NC Thursday, August 7, $1 Duke Lifepoint acquires WestCare Health System By David Butler reporter1@thesmokymountaintimes.com Duke Lifepoint Healthcare and the WestCare Health System Board of Trustees announced on Friday Aug. 1 the acquisition of WestCare by Duke Lifepoint has been finalized. The Attorney General of North Carolina reviewing the acquisition was the last domino that needed to fall. Under the terms of the agreement, Duke Lifepoint purchased Harris Regional Hospital, Swain County Hospital, and WestCare Medical Park, an outpatient medical facility in Franklin. Duke Lifepoint has committed to investing a minimum of $43 million in capital improvements over the next eight years, and this will help to provide new resources to help the system grow and improve health care delivery throughout the region. We will commit $43 million dollars so that these hospitals can reach their full potential, said Steve Heatherly, CEO of WestCare Health System. MedWest has been searching for a larger hospital to partner Subscribe Today! The Smoky Mountain Times P.O. Box 730, Bryson City, N.C with for some time now because of financial challenges facing these small hospitals. The agreement provides WestCare s hospitals, Harris Regional Hospital and Swain County Hospital a minimum of $43 million in capital improvements over the next decade, said Lucretia Stargell of WestCare Health. Smaller hospitals, such as WestCare have been struggling because of the nationwide healthcare landscape, and merging with Duke Lifepoint can help alleviate some of the financial burden on these In County $26 per year Outside county or outside N.C. $45 per year Seasonal $ Smoky Mountain Times/Community Newspapers Inc. small hospitals. The acquisition of West- Care by Duke LifePoint will provide WestCare Health System and its two hospitals with clinical and operational resources to enrich health services provided to the surrounding region, Stargell said. By offering the clinical expertise, safety and quality systems of one of the country s top academic medical centers (Duke University Health System) coupled with a leading hospital management company that Photo by David Butler/ Smoky Mountain Times Bryson City Fire Department trains on propane fires The Bryson City Fire Department held a liquefied petroleum demonstration training on the evening of Tuesday, Aug. 5 in the Ingles parking lot. Bryson City Fire Department thanked Heritage Propane as well as Ingles for allowing them to conduct the demonstration on their property. Swain County EMS was on stand by at the demonstration. Nantahala Racing Club awarded By David Butler Reporter1@thesmokymountaintimes.com After tallying more than 25,000 votes from Facebook fans, The North Face recently announced the Nantahala Racing Club as a winner of the $25, Explore Fund grant for the Young Rhinos Whitewater Discovery Project. The Nantahala Racing Club was established in 1993 to support whitewater athletes to promote the development of whitewater sports in the United States. Since its founding, the NRC has helped to develop numerous whitewater Olympians and national team members. Above all, the NRC has also helped introduce children to whitewater kayaking. Receiving The North Face Explore Fund grant is an incredible honor for NRC, said Zuzana Montagne, NRC Executive Director. Our project is very community-oriented, and it was rewarding to see $25,000 explore fund grant Submitted photo Children explore the Nantahala River by boat with the help of Nantahala Racing Club. The club just won a grant from The North Face to assist in its youth outreach. the community rally around our cause. This money, which will be spent on youth equipment and transportation to local rivers, will make a huge impact on the quality of our programming and the number of kids we will be able to engage in the coming year. Earlier in the summer, The North Face Explore Fund awarded $5,000 to 15 projects dedicated to getting more youth outside and connected to nature as part of their annual $250,000 grant program. See Hospital, page 6A North Face gives a huge amount of money to support nonprofits that work to get kids outdoors, Montagne said. We feel fortunate to be chosen as one of the finalists and plan to put the $25,000 to good use. The North Face chose 10 organizations to vote on Facebook for the organization of their choice, which gave fans the opportunity to be directly involved in supporting their favorite cause with the largest grants The North Face has ever awarded. The most important thing we do it to create a consistent supportive community of outdoor kids and families, Montagne said. The Young Rhinos Whitewater Discovery will start on Saturday, Aug. 9 with the Whitewater Junior Olympics. The Nantahala Outdoor Center will be hosting the event. To learn more about the Nan- See Grant, page 6A Index Obituaries...3A Letters/Opinion...4-5A Education...1B Community...9A Classifieds...10A-11A Photo by David Butler/ Smoky Mountain Times Duke Lifepoint's acquisition of WestCare Health System, including Swain County Hospital, above, finalized July 31. Bryson City board to say no to fracking By Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com Bryson City town board will join Swain County board of commissioners and other area leaders in saying no to hydraulic fracturing, with a plan to adopt a resolution against it at their next meeting. The board reviewed a sample of an antifracking resolution during its regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 4. Mayor Tom Sutton told town manager Larry Callicutt to go ahead and write a resolution for the town board to adopt at the next workshop meeting on Aug. 18. It was my understanding we wanted to go ahead with this, Sutton said. He added that the sample resolution, which was adopted by Swain County Board of Commissioners last month, for the most part applies to the town with a few changes. I ve read a little bit about this myself, and they seem to have the facts in here, said Rick Bryson, town board member. The local resolutions against hydraulic fracturing follow a state bill that paves the way for the controversial drilling process to begin in North Carolina as early as Fracking is the process of drilling natural gas wells, then injecting sand, water and a blend of chemicals into the well. The pressure, combined with the sand and chemical recipe fractures underground shale, releasing natural gas that was once unreachable. The approved state bill includes language that prevents local governments from placing restrictions on drilling. Without further discussion on the topic, the board moved on to other agenda items, including an appointment to the planning board. The board appointed Barbara Robinson, retired from USPS, to serve a three-year term on the board. The planning board had recommended appointing Karen Wilmot, current chair and executive director of Swain County Chamber of Commerce, to serve another term. Warren Crouch, owner of Gil s Book Store, also applied. With three applications to fill one position, Sutton said Fall sports, Back to School guide inside Ready or not, schools in Swain County will start opening their doors for students to return for the as early as Friday. Inside this week's issue of The Smoky Mountain Times, we offer back to school information for students and parents. Coinciding with the start of the new year are fall sports, inside this week's issue we offer See Town, page 7A Photo by David Butler/ Smoky Mountain Times Swain Maroon Devils football team held its first practice Friday, Aug. 1. For more photos and a story, see page 1B. a story on this year's Swain County High School Maroon Devils Varsity Football team, as well as an interview with Volleyball Coach Sonya Blakenship, who plans to retire at the end of this season. More back to school and fall sports coverage will follow next week. To read this week's stories, go to page 1B. In this week s issue... Cherokee Chief testifies on gaming 6A Two arrested for drugs, child abuse 7A Superintendent welcomes students 2B

2 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 2A POLICE LOG Swain County Sheriff s Office Arrests The Swain County Sheriff s Office made the following arrests July 28- Aug. 2. July 28 David Meshach Becker, 23, of 70 Bryson Ave., was arrested on charges of larceny shoplifting and concealment of goods, and parole, probation violations. Christopher Martin Carstens, 50, of 45 Berry Road, Sylva, was arrested on a charge of driving while impaired. July 29 Angelia Marie Collin, 42, of 5900 Grassy Branch Road, was arrested on charges of drug paraphernalia and driving while license revoked. Kevin Austin Cochran, 27, of 178 Trull Road, Marble, N.C., was arrested on a charge of contempt of court, perjury, court violations. Jeremiah Gentry Gunter, 64, of 61 Pinecrest Drive, was arrested on a charge of nonsupport- nonpayment of alimony. July 30 Daniel Alanson Cantrell, 28, of 934 Macktown Gap Road, Sylva, was arrested on a charge of felony larceny. Sean Adam Spidle, 42, of 91 Studio Lane, was arrested on a charge of possession Schedul VI controlled substance. July 31 Bobbi Jo Mathews, 31, of 1540 Robinson Gap Road, was arrested on charges of misdemeanor child abuse non-assaultive and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. Joseph Robert Grindle, 22, of 167 Park Street, was arrested on a charge of contempt of court, perjury, court violations. Jerri Lynn Reed, 37, of 652 Mink Branch Road, Cherokee, was arrested on a charge of contempt of court, perjury, court violations. Trevis Buttons, 23, of 251 Lewis Road, was arrested on a charge of contempt of court, perjury, court violations. Aug. 1 Charles Owenby, 60, of 2818 US 19, Andrews, was held on a non-criminal detainment hold until sober. Aug. 2 Daniel Gregg Reid, Jr., 29, of 10 Red Fox Loop, Clyde, was arrested on charges of possession Schedule VI controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. Lucas Mackenzie Watson, 21 of 24 Sunland Drive, Andrews, was arrested on charges of driving while impaired, driving left of center and failure to maintain lane. Swain County Sheriff s Office Incidents The Swain County Sheriff s Office investigated the following incidents July 28- Aug. 2. July 28 A call for service was made at 252 Cine Road. Fraud was reported at 8218 Alarka Road. Breaking and entering forcible and larceny after breaking and entering was reported at 305 McCury Road. Animal complaint was made at 51 Smith Drive. Manufactured non-tax paid liquor was reported at Barby Road. Embezzlement- all other and larceny by an employee was reported by an organization in Swain County area. July 29 Call for service was made to 184 Maple Lane. Larceny was reported at US 19 W. Drug paraphernalia, driving while license revoked was investigated at the parking lot of Mt Carmel Church on Robinson Gap Road. A call for service was made at the parking lot of Burger King. A call for service was made to 185 Kirklands Creek Road. A call for service was made to 340 Spring Road. July 30 Larceny was reported at 10 Passmore Lane, Whittier. Possession of Schedule VI controlled substance was investigated at Old Bryson Road. July 31 Breaking and entering with forcible entry was reported at 101 Brown Branch. Aug. 1 Child neglect non-assaultive was investigated on Shepherds Creek Road. Larceny from buildings was reported at 4141 US 19. Aug. 2 Call for service was made on US 74. Driving while impaired, left of center and failure to maintain lane was investigated on US 74 at Hyatt Creek Road. Vandalism was reported at 373 Ensley Hollow Road. Larceny of animals was repoted at 170 Husky Road. Call for service was made to 55 Lee Cochran Road. Concealed weapon was reported at Buckner Branch Road. Appalachian Fire Bluegrass band to perform Aug. 17 By Eugenia L. Johnson Director, Swain County Center for the Arts Appalachian Fire Bluegrass Band headquartered in Flat Rock, N.C., will perform a concert of classic bluegrass and gospel music along with some original tunes on Sunday, Aug. 17, at 3 p.m. at Swain County Center for the Arts in Bryson City. Immediately following the one-hour concert there will be a meet and greet reception for the five musicians and the 21 artists who have artwork in the community exhibit that is currently on display at the Center for the Arts. Sponsored by Swain County Center for the Arts and Swain County Schools, the public is invited to attend both the concert and the reception free of charge. Song selections performed by Appalachian Fire range from contemporary sounds to classics like Rolling in my Sweet Baby s Arms and Blue Moon of Kentucky. The group also performs a number of original tunes written by the members of the band, as well as rousing instrumentals, such as Foggy Mountain Breakdown and Salt Creek. They honor the gospel tradition with songs like I ll Fly Away, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, and Over in the Gloryland. Mix in some wholesome humor and there is bound to be something for everyone. Band leader, Dwayne Doc Durham, and Cliff Searcy began Appalachian Fire in the fall of They and some friends who shared their passion for bluegrass music began playing mainly for fun and doing small church and civic gigs. The band has evolved to include Dwayne Doc Durham (guitar, bass and vocals), Cliff Searcy (mandolin, dobro and vocals), Jim Fox (bass), Tim Francis (banjo and vocals), and Bill McDonald (fiddle, mandolin and finger-style guitar). Appalachian Fire s second CD, Ride This Train, was produced by Caleb Smith and Bill McDonald. It features some fine fiddle and vocal work by Buddy Melton. Their latest CD, Carolina Bound, is now available. Performing highlights for Appalachian Fire include Shindig on the Green (WNC s longest running performance jam) and the historic Stecoah Valley Arts Center concert series. The group was a regular at Asheville s premier BBQ and Bluegrass restaurant, The Fiddlin Pig. In October 2009 Appalachian Fire was invited to play at the Peace Center Bluegrass Festival in Greenville, S.C., with Rhonda Vincent, Del McCoury and Ricky Skaggs headlining the show. The band has opened for Lee Greenwood and shared the stage with Grammy Award winner Marc Pruett and his all-star band Balsam Range. In 2012 Appalachian Fire was part of the line-up for Bluegrass First Class in Asheville and played the main stage this year. They ve also been booked to play at Merlefest. Go to their website at www. docsbluegrass.com to hear samples of their music and learn more about the members of the band. Following the concert, everyone is invited for refreshments served in the lobby of Swain County Center for the Arts and provided by the 21 exhibiting artists in the Community Exhibit, which will be on display through September. The 75 works of art on exhibit range from realistic portraits and landscapes to abstract designs with a wide variety of media represented: watercolor, acrylic, oil, pastel and mixed media paintings; photography; basket weaving; Cherokee bead work; wood carving; scrollsaw wood carvings; stained glass sculptures, lamp and relief wall hanging; stone carving; and assemblage. Most of the artwork is priced to sell. Exhibitors include: Thurman W. Breedlove, Barbara Brook, Edmund M. Cobb, Michelle Ellis, Juanita Greenspan, Susan Jaeger, Eugenia L. Johnson, Lorenz Klug, Vernon Miller, Barbara Robinson, Rachel Rose, Martha Ruppert, Jackie Smith, Kel Tanner, Isabel Taylor, Clara Todd, Chris Trull, Robert G. Varkony, Harmer Weichel, Alyssa Welch and Amy Welch. Come to Swain County Center for the Arts on Sunday, Aug. 17 at 3 p.m. to enjoy a concert of bluegrass and gospel music and to meet the musicians and the artists while enjoying the refreshments and viewing the exhibit. You may view the on-going exhibits at Swain County Center for the Arts during all public events or call Eugenia Jenny Johnson at for an appointment. Go to to view the current calendar of events or to get directions to the Arts Center located at Swain County High School in Bryson City. Gunter Fork Trail reopened Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials announced that Gunter Fork Trail is now open. The trail had been closed since May due to a landslide along the trail. The park trail crew completed the necessary repairs by re-establishing the trail through the slide area. The trail passes through rocky, steep terrain complicating the repair work. The trail was also closed in 2011 due to a slide in the same area. The 4.1-mile trail lies in the east end of the park connecting Camel Gap and Balsam Mountain Trails. The Gunter Fork Trail is a route that takes users from the Walnut Bottoms area up to Balsam Mountain and Mt. Sterling. For more information about trail closures, please visit the Park s website at gov/grsm or call the Backcountry Information Office at (865) DOT seeks help with bike helmet program Submitted photo Appalachian Fire Bluegrass Band of Flat Rock, will perform on Sunday, Aug. 17 at Swain County Center for Arts. Twenty-one artists will also have artwork on display at the Center. In an effort to keep kids safe while riding a bicycle, the N.C. Department of Transportation s Bicycle and Pedestrian Division is issuing a call for applicants for its Bicycle Helmet Initiative. The program distributes helmets to children of low-income families, and for the first time ever is expanding its applicant pool to include other groups besides non-government agencies. Applicants are encouraged to partner with groups in the community to extend the outreach of bicycle safety awareness. Examples of partners include the police departments, parks and recreation departments, health departments or community centers and nongovernmental organizations. Helmets save lives while less than half of all children typically wear one while biking, they can reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by almost 90 percent. NCDOT is committed to ensuring all children have access to a helmet. Funding for the Bicycle Helmet Initiative is made possible through sales of the Share the Road specialty license plate. People dedicated to bicycle safety in North Carolina have continued to support this initiative since it was founded in 2007, and have made thousands of helmets available to children during that time. CORRECTION Alarka boat dock was pictured on last week s front page of Smoky Mountain Times. It was misidentified as Almond. Smoky Mountain Times apologizes for the mistake.

3 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page Obituaries Ben Price Ben Price, 73, of Bryson City passed away Monday, August 4, 2014 at his residence. A native of Haywood County, he was the son of the late Frazier and Cora Fisher Price. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Anna Louise Price. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Price; six children, Jeff, Lee, Sheila, Lex, Rex, and Scott Price; three step children, Becky Woods, Cynthia Woods, and John Ledford; several grandchildren, and great grandchildren; and four sisters Ollie Greene, Bonnie Lewis, Helen Russell, and Ema Barker. Funeral Services were held at 2:00 PM Wednesday in the Chapel of Crisp Funeral Home. Rev. Ray Fox officiated with burial in the Holly Springs Cemetery #2. The family received friends from 6:00 until 8:00 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Jose Geronimo Amero- Reyes Jose Geronimo Amero- Reyes, 53, of Cherokee went home to be with the Lord Friday, August 1, 2014 in a Jackson County Hospital. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Robin Amero-Reyes; brothers, Fildo Rodriguez Reyes, Lucio Amero-Reyes; and all his family in Mexico. Funeral services were held at 7:00 pm Wednesday in the chapel of Crisp Funeral Home. The family received friends from 6 to 7 pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Steve Cloer Steve Cloer, 56, of Bryson City, was called home Monday, July 28, A native of Swain County, he was the son of the late Carroll and Geraldine DeHart Cloer. He was an avid fisherman and golfer. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Vivian Cloer; his daughter, Amanda Cloer currently stationed with the U.S. Coast Guard in Mobile, AL; two sisters Sandy Cloer and Annette Cloer of Bryson City; four nephews; and five nieces. Funeral Services were held at 4:00 PM Friday in the Chapel of Crisp Funeral Home. Rev. Ernie Stiles officiated with burial in the Meadow Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Hayesville, NC. The family received friends from 1:00 until 4:00PM Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Swain Pride; PO Box 149 Bryson City, NC What goes better with Southern barbecue than a display of classy vintage and modern vehicles? Not much, according to David Myers. Coordinator of Southwestern Community College s Automotive Systems Technology program, Myers and the SCC Automotive Club will hold their ENTERTAINMENT MB Library hosts community music jam The next community music jam at the Marianna Black Library, in Downtown Bryson City, will be Thursday, August 7th, from 6 7:30 p.m., in the library auditorium or, if weather permits, on the front lawn of the library. Anyone with a guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dulcimer - anything unplugged - is invited to join. Singers are also welcomed to join in. Or, you can just stop by and listen. The jam is facilitated by Larry Barnett, of Grandpa s Music in Bryson City. Normally Larry starts by calling out a tune and its key signature, and the group plays it together. Then everyone in the circle gets a chance to choose a tune for the group to play together. The community jams offer a chance for musicians of all ages and levels of ability to share music they have learned over the years or learn old-time mountain songs. The music jams are offered to the public each 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. Marianna Black Library, a member of the Fontana Regional Library, is located in Downtown Bryson City at the corner of Academy and Rector. For more information or driving directions call the library at This program received support from the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency funded by the State of North Carolina and the National Endowment of the Arts, which believes a great nation, deserves great art. Submitted photo Fracking documentary shown locally Investigative reporters Melissa Troutman and Josh Pribanic (middle and right) authored the documentary Triple Divide: Shale Gas Fracking: Pennsylvania Personal Experiences. An audience of 32 watched and discussed the video at the Marianna Black Library Tuesday, July 29. The video highlighted water pollution and sickness that has accompanied cases of drilling for shale gas in a pristine area in Pennsylvania. The findings of these reports are relevant to current fracking controversies in North Carolina. Roger Clapp (left) is director of the Watershed Association of the Tuckasegee River, the group that hosted the event. annual car show in conjunction with the Mountain High BBQ Festival for the second straight year. The event takes place Friday and Saturday, Aug. 8-9 at the Wayne Proffitt Agricultural Center in Franklin. We like having our Car Show with the barbecue festival because it helps draw even Submitted photo Library reading program hosts finale Performing a magic trick with local assistant Elke Reihert, Caleb Sigmon had area children and adults believing in magic during the Summer Reading Program Finale Carnival at Marianna Black Library on Friday, Aug. 1. more of a crowd, Myers said. The money we raise goes into scholarship funds and into our club. Overall, this will be the fifth time that SCC s Automotive Club has presented a car show. Unlike last year s event, which only included antique vehicles, this year s show will feature all years, makes and models. WNC public hearing on drilling scheduled Officials with the state Mining and Energy Commission have scheduled a fourth public hearing, this time in western North Carolina, to receive public input on proposed rules for regulating oil and gas development in North Carolina. The public hearing is scheduled for 5-9 p.m. Sept. 12 at the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center, 199 Centennial Drive, Cullowhee. People wishing to speak during the hearing are asked to register starting at 4 p.m. The hearing will be recorded. The Sept. 12 event is in addition to public hearings planned for Aug. 20 in Raleigh, Aug. 22 in Sanford and Aug. 25 in Reidsville. Written comments from the public will be accepted at all four public hearings and may also be submitted at any time Vehicles will be separated into two categories: 1974 and older, and 1975 and newer. Entry fees are $10 for Friday s Cruise (5-8 p.m.), which includes Friday entry to the barbecue festival; $25 pre-registration for Friday and Saturday, which includes two entries to the barbecue festival on each day; or $30 per car for Saturday, which July 15-Sept. 15 with the exception of one rule. The public comment period for this rule only will be extended until Sept. 30. Hard copy written comments should be sent to: DENR-Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources, Attn: Oil and Gas Program, 1612 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC Written comments may also be submitted electronically through the state Division of Energy, Mineral and Land Resources website at: portal.ncdenr.org/web/mining-and-energy-commission/ public-comment-meetings. The public comment period for ends at 5 p.m. Sept. 30. The public comment period for all other proposed oil and gas development rules ends at 5 p.m. Sept. 15. SCC s car show set for Aug. 8-9 as part of BBQ fest includes two entries to the barbecue festival on Saturday. Top prize will get $350 while second place receives $150. Myers said space usually fills up well in advance of the event, so call the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce at (828) or for more information or to reserve your space today. DEATH NOTICE Sally Ann Crowe Ensley of Cherokee NC passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 30th 2014 while visiting family in Walhala, SC. Funeral services were held 2:00 PM Sunday at the Cherokee Pentecostal Holiness Church. Revs. Clyde Webb, Tommy Gibson, and Bruce Chambers officiated with burial in the Crowe Family Cemetery. The body was taken back to the church at 5:00 PM Saturday to await the hour of service. David Myers is with SCC s Automotive Systems Technology program. The program will have a car show this weekend in Franklin. Submitted photo CPR class offered Bryson City Health & Fitness is hosting a certified CPR and AED training Tuesday, Aug. 26 from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. The ASHI certified class will be taught by the charity MedicForce and is offered at a discounted price. All profits will be used to help the disadvantaged in Kenya. Classes are limited to 15 places, pre-registration only. Call or ask at the reception to reserve a spot.

4 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 4A OPINION Editorial Be mindful of traffic as students return to class As the summer season starts to wind down, it s time that parents and their children start getting prepared for the annual ritual of going back to school. Students are equipped with backpacks, new school supplies and an enthusiasm for getting back to seeing their school friends every day. In Swain County, Grace Christian Academy students will head back first, starting classes with a half-day this Friday, Aug. 8. On Monday, Aug. 11, Mountain Discovery Charter School students will start back. Then, on Monday, Aug. 18 all of the Swain County public schools will return with a half-day. With the school years starting back up, the community should be mindful of increased traffic during the school hours. If your commute includes a school zone, plan ahead and be mindful of longer drive times. Most importantly, the community should increase its SMT Q & A SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES P.O. Box 730/1 River Street, Suite 3 Bryson City, N.C (828) Publication No OUR MISSION OUR STAFF Ashley Butcher Publisher Jessica Webb Editor Kristi Suess Administrative Assistant Teddy Greene Photographer David Butler Reporter SUBSCRIPTION RATES Member: North Carolina Press Association The Smoky Mountain Times is published with pride for the people of Swain County and surrounding areas by Community Newspapers, Inc., Athens, Ga. We believe that strong newspapers build strong communities Newspapers get things done! Our primary goal is to publish distinguished and profitable community-oriented newspapers. This mission will be accomplished through the team work of professionals dedicated to truth, integrity, loyalty, quality and hard work. Tom Wood Chairman Dink NeSmith President awareness of students who will be getting on and off buses as well as waiting for parents for pick-up. Drive slow through school zones and pay attention. Over the summer, numerous students attended summer reading camps. We think this was a great investment for the students of Swain County, and hope that parents will continue to support their children s reading efforts throughout the school year. Take time to read with your child, and perhaps even plan a weekly trip to the Marianna Black Library to select new books for the week. In this week s Fall Sports and Back to School guide starting on 1B, we have several back to school stories, with more to come next week. Smoky Mountain Times wishes every student the best of luck in their next school year. In addition, we thank all of the parents and educators who work hard to help each child in Swain County succeed. Online Poll Cast your vote online: Are you ready for this year s football season? Last Week Do you think the county should fence in the recycling/ garbage center on Highway 19? No: 63% Yes: 37% LETTERS POLICY Smoky Mountain Times welcomes the opinions of its readers. To submit a letter to the editor, , fax, hand deliver the letter to our office or on our website. For s, please submit letters to editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com. For online, go to To fax, send to (828) Please include a daytime phone number that you can be reached at so that staff can confirm your letter. The phone number will not be published. The views expressed in letters are not necessarily those of Smoky Mountain Times or Community Newspapers, Inc. Letters must be signed and be no longer than 500 words. Writers are limited to one letter every 30 days. It will be up to the discretion of the editorial staff as to whether letters submitted by people outside the newspaper s coverage area will be allowed to run. Rachel Hoskins Regional Publisher Opening Your Heart, Home can be life changing Letters to the Editor On Jan. 9, 2008, our family began a life-changing journey with Ayusa International. We welcomed into our home a 15-year-old high school student, Sarah Engel from Erlangen, Germany. My family remembers the excitement we felt waiting for Sarah s arrival at the airport. My husband and I were so nervous becoming host parents to an exchange student. We had never done anything like this before. We wondered how we would adapt to a total stranger living in our home, especially someone from a different country and culture. At first it was unusual, but as each day passed, my family grew to love Sarah and the end of her stay she was truly a member of our family. What an experience for all of us. Sarah was in our home for only five months. But the transformation we experienced with Sarah during such an impressionable time of her life was amazing. We watched her grow before our eyes, arriving as a nervous, bewildered, insecure girl, into a successful, confident, young woman when she boarded the plane to go back home. We enjoyed hosting so much we have opened our home three more times to date. All of my students have special places in my heart, but Sarah influenced my life on a life-changing journey. Soon after her arrival she inspired me to become a community representative for Ayusa. My experience was so valuable and personal, I wanted to encourage other families to open their homes and hearts to one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. I truly have a special heart for these students. I feel they are so brave to leave their families, friends and homes behind, fly around the world into a new country, a new culture, waiting to become a part of a new family they have never met. It is so exciting and rewarding for me to be a part of their experiences. Ayusa is currently looking for host families to provide loving homes to our students. Students come from over 60 dif- Ready to jump into Maroon tide I admit it, I m bracing myself for high tide. As Smoky Mountain Times editor, I know that I will soon be well versed in more football terms than I ever would have imagined. As someone who never showed much interest in sports, I m often the bird sticking her head in the sand when my office mates all die hard football fans, among other sports, start discussing the upcoming NFL season. My head just starts spinning when I hear about all the fantasy football leagues they re going to be in. On the other hand, I m grateful for their enthusiasm, and that I have someone to turn to when writing a sports cutline. What can I say they re doing there, oh, the defensive linemen are hitting the sled during practice, of course, I knew that. Despite my lack of experience, I know the tide is rising and I better learn how to swim here. After all, Swain County, your reputation as football fanatics precedes you. Before taking my post here, I heard my fair share of Maroon Devils legends, how many state titles? Wow. And students have been known to transfer here to play football. Ya ll aren t messing around. A step into Swain County High School, where greeted by cases of trophies, is a bold reminder of how serious Swain is about its sports. It s not that I can t enjoy sports. I ve certainly attended a few sporting events over the years and cheered on lots of Jessica Webb Editor games on TV. Not impressed? Okay, that doesn t surprise me. Since marrying into a North Carolina family of sports lovers ( for example, my fatherin-law gets a poster of the N.C. Tarheels basketball team every year from my brother-in-law for Christmas), I ve spent my fair share of hours watching games, from basketball to football, and when it comes to the World Cup or the Olympics, I m all about it. Yet, me trying to grasp a lot of the terms here or even the plays of the game are like me trying to run in the sand, I m inevitably going to get tripped up. What I do understand as fall sports season arrives is how the community gets behind its youth and how success on the field is a win for the whole community. I moved around a fair amount as a kid, but as a student at Beechwood Elementary, a small K-12 in Fort Mitchell, Ky., I learned the meaning of school spirit. We had a winning football team. I remember as a middle school student going to all the games (even if I wasn t watching them closely). It was just what everyone did. It was also a See Letters, page 5A memorable time getting to go to the state championship. Nearly everyone went, and despite all, I really felt like I was a part of something bigger than myself when I donned my Tiger pride gear and cheered the team on. So, I ve been in Swain County for about three months, and I have finally invested in my own Maroon Tide pride, a long sleeve Maroon Devils shirt and a baseball cap oh, but, I m not sure if the cap is working with my hair! I know, it s not about that. As the Smoky Mountain Times editor, I will promise this, I ll be going to some home games, but don t be surprised if you overhear me critiquing the uniforms more than the game. I will also say that I understand not every child is a football player. I mean, hey, how many girls do you see out there on the field, and they make up half the student body. With that in mind, I ll also make a promise that your local newspaper will give ample coverage to all of its high school sports teams. Lucky for you, for the most part, I won t be the one reporting on the games. No, I ll leave that to our live-for-footballseason reporter, David Butler and our trusted photographer, Teddy Greene. And who knows, perhaps being surrounded by all these fans will teach me a thing or two. After all, I ve always been a good swimmer. Smoky Mountain Times Editorial Staff Tell Momma not to worry he wrote from WWI Phil Hudgins CNI Senior Editor This summer marks the 100th anniversary of the beginning of World War I. The U.S. counted 116,516 war dead. But the sacrificed life of one soldier lives on through his letters home. Pvt. Maudie A. Miller wrote a lot of letters from his part of the war, the First World War. His father, Eli Miller, counted 45 in all, plus one postcard. The card announced only that he had arrived safely overseas. Our regiment is lucky so far, he wrote in a letter dated Sunday, Oct. 13, We have lost but very few men.... Maudie was writing from somewhere in France, where he was assigned to Battery C, 320th Field Artillery of the United States Army. He was updating his family on what he had seen: The Allies sure have been doing some good work the last few weeks, he said in his letter. Guess you have seen in the paper what they have done, and still have the Germans on the run. But he longed to be home in Lula, Ga., helping his family at harvest time: Guess you all are busy gathering your crops. Would like to be there to help you all. Hope you will make a good crop. Maudie s time in the Army began April 17, 1918, when he reported to Camp Gordon, Ga. He stayed there 13 days and then transferred to Camp Mills, N.Y. A few days later, he shipped overseas to prepare for what became known as The Great War, because no one could imagine a war being greater. The private received training on a machine gun and reported for duty near the front lines in France. Maudie assured his family time and again that he was just fine. Tell Momma not to worry about me, he wrote in the Oct. 13 letter. I will not hurt myself unless I do accidentally. I am not in very much danger. I am so far back of the front lines. He also assured everyone he had kept the faith. I have read my Testament through twice since I have been over here, he said. I haven t been very uneasy, yet I feel like the Lord will protect me if it is his will. On Nov. 11, 1918 at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month hostilities on the Western Front ceased. But Maudie Miller never got the news. He was severely wounded and died 22 days before Armistice Day, the day the war ended. About two years and nine months after he died, the remains of Maudie Miller, my late fatherin-law s oldest brother, arrived home for burial. His New Testament was among his belongings. Maudie had marked one verse in the little book. It was the 13th verse of the 15th chapter of St. John. It was the same verse the Rev. P.M. Webb read at Maudie s funeral on July 29, 1921: Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. In Swain County Outside Swain County or outside N.C. Seasonal Yearly $26.00 $45.00 $35.00 Second class postage paid to Bryson City, N.C. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Smoky Mountain Times, P.O. Box 730, Bryson City, NC In the event of typographical errors in advertisements, the Smoky Mountain Times will only be responsible for the space containing the actual error. Ashley Butcher Publisher Jessica Webb Editor Teddy Greene Photographer David Butler Reporter

5 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 5A Two loners wandering in the High Country Almost a half century ago Michael Frome, a noted voice on environmental issues, talented writer and researcher, and prolific author, published a book with the intriguing title of Strangers in High Places. If you have anything more than a passing interest in the history of the Smokies, I would encourage you to read the work (it went through a number of printings and an expanded edition appeared in 1994 it remains in print from the University of Tennessee Press). The book devotes individual chapters to a number of strangers including naturalist/explorer William Bartram, the indefatigable Swiss mountaineer Arnold Guyot, Cherokee spokesman Will Thomas, ethnologist James D. Mooney, and several others. Interspersed with these biographical profiles are in-depth looks at mountain history and culture which range from moonshine to music, hunting to logging. In every instance Frome s effort is highly readable and characterized by a great deal of careful research. For example, many years Letters: Consider being host Continued from page 4A ferent countries, speak English, have their own money for expenses and medical insurance. There is not a typical host family. Host families can be anyone over 25, empty nesters, families with or without children, single or married. Students can share a room with a host sibling. The host family, student and school receive support from beginning to end of the students stay. A family may Mountain Musings and Memories with Jim Casada host for a fall or spring semester or academic year. There are students still in hopes of being chosen by a host family before the August 31 federal deadline. All of them are so excited to learn about your American way of life, as well as share their country and culture. Ayusa is a 30-year-old nonprofit organization and regulated by the Dept. of State. If interested in becoming a host family dbell@ayusa.org ago when he learned that I had grown up as a next-door neighbor of Stanley W. Black, Frome graciously offered to make me a copy of his taped interview with the local banker and civic leader. He conducted numerous other interviews of this nature as well as pursuing the more traditional path of research in archives, public records, and printed materials. One of the most interesting chapters Frome wrote was on Horace Kephart. In my view, he pretty well nailed the nature of the man, rightly pointing out his shortcomings, many of which were associated with alcoholism, but also giving him due credit in areas such as expertise on guns and ballistics, woodsmanship, and his careful study of mountain vernacular. I think Frome s vignette, although it encompasses only 16 pages, remains the best treatment of a highly controversial figure. Obviously the Kephart family did not agree, because at one point shortly after the book s appearance they threatened to sue Frome. Nothing came of it, most likely because a lawyer would informed them they didn t have a legal leg on which to stand. A recent re-reading of Frome s chapter on Kephart in connection with a dispute about the reliability of Granville Calhoun as a source (Frome interviewed him and used his account of Kephart s drunkenness when he first went to Hazel Creek as the lead for his overage) reminded me in some ways of another individual, this time one whom I knew quite well, who came to the Smokies in search of solitude and to find his soul in much the same fashion as Kephart did. This was the late Harry Middleton. Harry was not plagued by the problems with alcohol Whittier a special place in the pages of memory A strange green light over the skies By Harold Herron One dark night, a green light flashing across the sky over Bryson City and created a question, oh what could it be? to the spectators that could see the skies over town with the awe of could it be the end of time? echoing from a generation of grandparents who decided to investigate. The menfolks lit up their lanterns and walked from Conley s Creek across the mountain through the Terral Gap and down Sheppard s Creek to Bryson City, but nobody knew what it could be. Years have gone by, and as of today, we the children of that night who hear the chilling words, what can it be? to us there has never been an explanation. A spooky night for certain, yet we wonder what could it have been for the certainty of the end of time is still a reality. Harold Herron grew up in Whittier and occasionally submits articles recalling the days he lived here as a child. DeHart reunion is Saturday By David DeHart President DeHart Association Sometime ago around 1828, Nathan DeHart and his wife, Katherine Ramsey DeHart along with their two sons, John and William arrived in the mountains of western North Carolina. The place was along the Little Tennessee River in the area of the Swinging Bridge now known as Needmore. They started purchasing land and farming along with raising a family. The children got older, then married and started raising their own families. All of the DeHarts today in western North Carolina are from Nathan and Katherine De- Hart. This is a statement that has been challenged for many years and always proven to be correct. Eighty-five years ago, several DeHart families got together and started this annual event. This was a large family gathering in Bryson City, and is still going strong today. This Saturday, Aug. 9 we will be celebrating our 85th Annual Reunion at Cold Springs Baptist Church on Cold Springs Road in the Fellowship Hall. The church is located just off of Highway 19/74 near mile post 64. All friends and families are invited to bring a covered dish and join this special event. The Fellowship Hall will open at 10 a.m. and we will be saying the blessing around 1 p.m. Plates, cups, ice and drinks will be furnished, please bring your family pictures, memorabilia and family history. The family really has a great time at this event every year and looks forward to visiting and sharing stories. See you there. For questions about the annual event please david.dehart@dehart.com. Contra Dance Sunday in Sylva The next Second Sunday Contra Dance will be on Sunday, Aug. 10. The dance will be held in the Community Room on the second floor of the old courthouse in the Jackson County Library Complex in Sylva. Contra dancing will begin at 2:30 p.m. and go on until 5 p.m. Diane Silver will call the dance to the music of Out of the Woodwork led by Margie McDonald. There will also be a potluck dinner following the contra dance, starting at 5 p.m. Please bring a covered dish, plate, cup and cutlery and a water bottle. All dances are done to live music and local musicians are invited to sit in with the band, to jam and learn how to play music for dancing. No previous experience with contra dancing is necessary and all dances will be taught and walked through before dancing. No partner is required. Contra dancing is a form of English country dancing and uses many of the same figures as square dancing such as circles, stars and swings. Information about the dance is available from Ron Arps at ronandcathy71@frontier.com. call (828) or visit our website In a world of so many different cultures, religions, beliefs and people, there are few universal things that no matter where you go and who you meet, love is definitely at the top of the list. Would your family consider opening your home to a life changing experience? Donna Bell Ayusa Senior Regional Director which bedeviled Kephart, but other than that key consideration and the space of three quarters of a century dividing their time in the mountains, there are remarkable similarities in the lives and careers of the two men. Both were loners and were never happier than when situated in some remote campsite in the Smokies far removed from civilization. Both had serious marital problems. Both were exceptionally talented writers, although as a pure wordsmith Middleton far transcends Kephart. Both had a keen interest in the natural world, hunting and fishing, and the art of woodsmanship. Indeed, it was the discovery that I hailed from the Smokies and knew a bit about Kephart s life, together with the lure of a fly rod that first led to my link with Harry. Both of us were attending the annual meeting of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association and during a time set aside for outdoor manufacturers to display all their latest gear, we were side by side at a casting pond with fly rods. Incidentally, for all that Harry loved to fish for trout, he was about as inept a hand with a fly rod as I ve ever seen. He knew it and really didn t care. He just loved to wade mountain streams, catch and eat the occasional wild trout, and escape from the stifling routine of his job with Southern Living magazine in Birmingham. We fell to talking and soon became regular correspondents, saw each other occasionally, and I followed his literary career with great interest. His first two books, The Earth Is Enough and On the Spine of Time, have become classics in the fly-fishing world. The latter is set squarely in the Smokies and while it is fictional in nature, Harry s depiction of nature and the allure of the high country is absolutely irresistible. Later his life became filled with bitterness and much of that is reflected in his final books. He died, far too young, in a public swimming pool in Birmingham with his life in tatters. As was the case with Kephart, he left a widow and children in straitened financial circumstances and a mixed legacy of literary genius and personal failures. Anyone who studies the life and writings of the two men cannot fail to be struck by several things their loneliness, the fact that both had comparatively few friends and generally preferred their own company to social gatherings, an abiding love affair with the backcountry of the Smokies, and the fact that each left behind books which reveal as much about them as they do about the subjects of which they wrote. The only other point I would make in this comparison is that I don t really find much in On the Spine of Time which troubles me in terms of how the author depicts mountain lifestyles. By way of sharp contrast, portions of Our Southern Highlanders are rife with sensationalized and highly inaccurate depictions of the ways and mores of local people. But don t rely on my reaction or my view of these two loners who sought to find themselves in this part of the world. Read their books and decide for yourself. Photo by David Butler/ Smoky Mountain Times Walgreens health screenings a hit Walgreens in Bryson City had 97 people show up for a free health screening on Monday, July 28. We hope next summer they will be back, said Store Manager Brandi Phegley. We feel like with the numbers we did that they will be back. Services provided at the free event included cholesterol and glucose levels, blood pressure and a total-weight analysis. Above, Jack Wilmot is getting his arm painted by Catie Millard as a part of the activities offered for children at the event. County Commissioners meeting rescheduled to Aug. 19 The Swain County Board of Commissioners meeting regularly scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 12 has been cancelled and rescheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 19 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Swain County Administration Building.

6 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 6A Chief Hicks testifies before Senate Committee on gaming Michell Hicks, Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), told a U.S. Senate committee in testimony on Wednesday, July 23, that gaming on the Cherokee reservation has had a dramatic impact on the lives of Cherokee families and especially children in ways we never dreamed possible. Before tribal government gaming came to Cherokee, our people struggled to get by in challenging economic conditions, Hicks said, noting that the tribe was forced to depend heavily on seasonal tourism that produced mainly low paying jobs. Families were split, Hicks added, because people would have to travel off the reservation for work, sometimes for extended periods of time, to support their families in construction or other jobs. This situation tore at the fabric of the foundation of our society, our families. With the opening of the Chief Michell Hicks Harrah s Cherokee Casino Resort in November 1997 came a large, complex, multi-product enterprise and tourist destination that now attracts more than 3.1 million visitors each year. Hicks reported, The reservation economy of the Eastern Band is in a period of strong growth. The casino s economic impact extends throughout the western North Carolina region Hicks said, boosting per capita income from 70 percent of the state average in the mid s to more than 80 percent today. Hicks reported that the Cherokee Preservation Foundation, funded by gaming revenues to create new businesses and initiatives, has contributed a leveraged impact of about $99 million for additional social improvements, environmental enhancements, workforce development, and cultural preservation in the region. In his Senate report, Hicks said that the greatest and most gratifying impact of gaming resources has been on tribal children, as reflected in schools and youth programs. Cherokee Central Schools, Hicks said, have sunlight in every classroom, gymnasium, library and student spaces. [The school complex] features a Gathering Place, a theatre in the round for the elementary students to host cultural programs. The Gathering Place is designed in the model of traditional council houses with seven sides. The classroom buildings are of similar design with interior courtyards, added Hicks, State budget agreement includes teacher raise By Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com Well past a July 1 deadline, state legislators reached a $21.25 billion budget agreement early in the week. The budget, which will provide an average 7 percent pay raise to North Carolina s teachers, moves the state from 46th to 32nd in the national teacher pay rankings. The budget also retains teacher assistant positions, despite initial cuts in the Senate proposal. Teacher pay for early career teachers is also planned to increase by 14 percent over the next two years to $35,000. The pay raise is less for teachers with more than 10 years of experience, according to the N.C. Association of Educators. The plan, according to NCAE rolls the longevity pay into the salary schedule, artificially increasing raises. Investing $282 million in pay raises will make North Carolina competitive nationally and encourage the best and brightest of teachers to make the long-term commitment to their profession, our students and our state, said Senate leader Phil Berger and Speaker Thom Tillis in a press release. The plan also gives most Operation Backpack announced state employees a $1,000 pay raise and five bonus vacation days. It increases pay for Highway Patrol Troopers between five and six percent for step-eligible. Critics are calling the bill fiscally irresponsible, pointing to tax cuts last year that could drastically reduce revenue. The now projected revenue loss of more than $5 billion over five years from income tax cuts alone means that things people rely on, such as quality education for all children and the rebuilding of strong local economies, are at risk, said Alexandra Forter Sirota, director of the Budget and Tax Center. along with a cultural arts center theatre with dance studios, an art gallery and a state of the art theatre which has hosted the North Carolina Symphony and the Atlanta Shakespeare Theatre as well as our own Cherokee cultural night for students to showcase their own talents. More important is the athletic component of the school complex which was designed to address the diabetes epidemic in our community. We believe that teaching the children to control their health is an essential life lesson. Hicks pointed to research by Duke University Medical School showing the significant impact that resources from gaming can have on the health and well being of Cherokee children. The poorest children tended to have the greatest risk of psychiatric disorders, including emotional and behavioral problems. But just four years after the payments to Cherokee families from gaming revenues began, [there were] substantial improvements among those who moved out of poverty, Hicks reported. The frequency of behavioral problems in Cherokee children declined by 40 percent, nearly reaching the risk level of children who had never suffered from poverty. Minor crimes committed by Cherokee youth also declined and on-time high school graduation rates improved. According to Hicks, These Cherokee youth were roughly one-third less likely to develop substance abuse and psychiatric problems in adulthood, compared with the oldest group of Cherokee children and with neighboring rural whites of the same age. The Duke study also found that improvements to family income improved parenting quality. The assistance from gaming eased the strain of the feast-orfamine existence too many of our families were surviving in. Hicks told the Senators that direct investments made to tribal members saves both the Eastern Band and the Federal Government money in the long run. The Eastern Band Cherokee Tribal Government and the federal government benefit from savings in reduced criminality, a reduced need for psychiatric care, and savings gained from not repeating grades. Hicks summed up the positive effects of gaming on the Eastern Band by saying, Tribal government gaming has been the primary driver for our ability to address the problems in our community, on our terms, and support the culture and traditions that never left. I can testify today that gaming has brought not only economic benefits to our reservation but also positive impacts on Cherokee life expectancy, poverty rates, educational attainment, and the physical and mental wellbeing of Cherokee children. Photo by Ashley Butcher/ Smoky Mountain Times Cherokee Trout Derby draws young fans The Cherokee Talking Trees Children s Trout Derby was held on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1-2, at the Oconaluftee River Islands Park. Above, Betsy fishes with her dad, Jeff Marley. LOVEBRYSON and The Grove Church are collecting brand new backpacks school supplies for local foster kids. This is the 6th year that project Operation Backpack has committed to providing school supplies to kids in the Swain County area. If you are interested in helping sponsor a backpack and supplies please contact The Grove Church at or info@ thegrovechurch.com. Hospital: New ownership Continued from page 1A brings financial resources, purchasing power and management expertise, Duke Life- Point provides an optimal solution to help WestCare grow and prosper. The WestCare merge will also allow these hospitals to expand and grow, which will allow them to provide the best health care available to their patients. Duke LifePoint Healthcare brings a partnership option to WestCare that is unique and innovative an agreement that will provide WestCare s hospitals with resources that will help us continue to offer top-quality care, effectively respond to changes in the healthcare industry and invest in growth, Stargell said. Proceeds from the acquisition will retire WestCare s financial obligations and fund a locally governed charitable foundation to support community needs. WestCare also becomes a local taxpayer, providing a source of new tax revenue to support the local economy. As part of the Duke Life- Point network, WestCare will have the support and resources needed to weather the changing healthcare environment, expand the services provided, recruit new physicians, offer new opportunities for employees, better serve the community and strengthen the hospitals for the future, Stargell said. Harris Regional Hospital and Swain County Hospital have been a critical part of the health care infrastructure in western North Carolina for many years, said LifePoint Chairman and Chief Executive Officer William F. Carpenter III. We are proud to partner with these hospitals to strengthen quality care across this region and look forward to working with their teams to better position the hospitals to grow and prosper in the changing health care environment. WestCare s hospitals now have access to Duke University Health System s top-ranked patient safety, quality and education programs and LifePoint s financial and operational resources and expertise. We are pleased to welcome WestCare to Duke LifePoint, said William J. Fulkerson Jr., M.D., executive vice president of Duke University Health System. Generations of people in this region have relied on West- Care s hospitals and, together with WestCare s board, executives, medical staff and employees, we will work together to further enhance health care in this region. With the acquisition, current employees of the WestCare system should remain in place. According to Stargell, all current employees are going through the process of becoming employees of Duke LifePoint. WestCare is going to be governed by a regional board of trustees, which will consist of members of WestCare s communities, local physicians and representatives from Duke LifePoint. WestCare s relationship with Duke LifePoint marks a new beginning for our hospitals in Sylva and Bryson City and our outpatient center in Franklin, Heatherly said. I look forward to working with Duke LifePoint to strengthen health care in our community by providing exceptional experiences for patients and families and growth opportunities for our staff. Grant: Helping kids kayak Continued from page 1A tahala Racing club and Young Rhinos Whitewater Discovery visit NantahalaRacing- Club.com. The North Face also announced the North Carolina Wildlife Federation as winner of a $25, Explore Fund grants for its Great Outdoors University. The GoU program, based out of Charlotte, was established by the NCWF in late 2012 with the support of several partner organizations such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Clubs and Hispanic Learning centers. The NCWF s GoU program is working to reduce nature deficit and restore the bonds to nature for the mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing for children, as well as, the earth. Since the inception of the NCWF connecting kids to nature initiative last summer, over 1,800 kids have had a unique outdoor experience through GoU. To learn more about NC- WF s GoU program visit

7 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 7A Sheriff s Office arrests two on drug, child abuse charges By Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com Swain County Sheriff s Office arrested two Bryson City residents on Thursday, July 31, on drug charges and child abuse charges following a search warrant of their home. Robert Clinton Carlton, 35, and Bobbi Jo Mathews, 31, of 1540 Robinson Gap Road, were both arrested and charged with the following charges: two counts misdemeanor child abuse non-assaultive, two counts contributing to the delinquency of a minor, misdemeanor simple possession of Schedule II controlled substance, Schedule IV controlled substance and possession drug paraphernalia. Both Carlton and Mathews received a $25,000 secured bond and are currently being held at the Swain County Detention Center. Robert Carlton According to the search warrant issued, a Swain County Bobbi Mathews Social Services Child Protective Service investigation was initiated on Wednesday, July 23 for two young children in the home. Results from a hair analysis on each child showed exposure for amphetamine and methamphetamine. When the search warrant was executed, the following items were seized at the home: a gold colored pipe, a triple beam scale, digital scales, as well as oxycodone and clonazepam pills, a Bernzomatic torch and a propane fuel torch. According to the search warrant, a possible methamphetamine lab, referred to as a shake and bake method, was found at the residence. The N.C. State Bureau of Investigations was notified of the possibility of the device and determined that it was in fact an incendiary device. Carlton and Mathews are scheduled to have their first court appearances on Thursday, Aug. 21. Ma Cloer: It s never to late to play your heart out Editor s Note: This story is a part of an occasional series about local residents who want to share their history. If you or a family member are interested in sharing your story, please contact me at editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com or call the office By Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com Bertha Cloer, known to many as Ma Cloer, will soon celebrate her 94th birthday. As a Swain County resident all her life, Cloer said she doesn t have much material wealth, but that Jesus Christ is still leading her on. As an elderly woman who still lives in her own home in Alarka and gets around with relative ease, she said she is Town: Fireman s Day discussed Continued from page 1A that all three were good candidates, but he felt Robinson would bring a new perspective to the board. Recurring signs The board briefly discussed a recommendation from the planning committee to change the town s sign ordinance to allow applicants to apply for a onetime permit for the season for re-occurring events, such as the Swain County Farmer s Market and Music in the Mountains. Currently, the off-premise signs are not in compliance, said Fred Moody, town attorney. The proposal from the planning committee would address the signs not being in compliance and prevent them from having to apply for a temporary permit every two weeks and pay $10 each time, Callicutt said. Sutton said the town should wait to hear if the proposal gets full support from the planning board. If the planning board supports it, let us know and surprised to have lived into her 90s. Even having done so, she said that she doesn t feel that old. Cloer s age doesn t stop her from learning new things. Most recently she has taken up playing the harmonica, which she received as a Christmas gift from family. She sits out on her front porch nightly playing gospel tunes on the instrument and singing, a tradition that often draws neighbors out to listen. She said she enjoys playing the harmonica in part because her mother loved it. The harmonica, and music in general, ties Cloer to her own past. She grew up in Lands Creek and attended the old schoolhouse there. We had to carry water in a bucket and use a dipper to we ll address it, he said. If the change is made, it will require a public hearing, Moody added. Water meters In his report to the board, Tom Shook, public works supervisor, said that the water meter project is about 80 percent completed and that the contractors have started on the large commercial meters. We re in the final stretches, Shook said, adding that the project should wrap up at the end of the month. Installation of the new digital meters has already helped in saving the town money, giving more accurate accounts of how much water is being used. According to monthly water plant report, July s unaccounted water was percent, a 9.13 percent improvement compared to the previous month. In other actions, the board approved relief for Terry Floyd for a leak at cabins on West Deep Creek. After a discussion with Floyd and Shook, it was determined that the town was at fault for causing a leak. The board approved relief for Photo by Jessica Webb/ Smoky Mountain Times Bertha Cloer, known as Ma to many will turn 94 on Tuesday, Aug. 26. She recently took up playing harmonica. drink out of it, Cloer recalls. I started the school at about 7 years old. I went on to school at Bryson. Cloer was one of 8 children. $ in a water/ sewer bill. Fireman s Day Brandon Wiggins, Bryson City Fire Department Chief, told the board in his report that the department is planning to have its annual Fireman s Day again on Saturday, Aug. 30 at Riverside Park. The event includes the West Swain Fire Department, Swain County Rescue Squad as well as vendors. Wiggins said they were looking to close the middle of Mitchell Street for the event, from 7 a.m.-5 p.m., while being sure access is still open to the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad s parking lot and the US Post Office. Town board members expressed some skepticism for the need to close the street, asking if Wiggins had talked with Bryson City Police Chief Rick Tabor or the train company yet. Wiggins said he had spoken with train company although has not gotten a final word from them. The board agreed to postpone a decision to close the street for the event until their next meeting. My mother, she loved to play her old organ every night before we went to bed, Cloer said. She d pull us around the organ to sing gospel LTLT expands Needmore Gamelands Thanks to Land Trust of the Little Tennessee, the Needmore Gamelands has expanded. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission recently acquired 39 acres from the regional non-profit. The land now permanently enters the public trust and will be available for recreational uses and wildlife management. LTLT purchased the property from the Wayne W. Duvall family in Fronting a half-mile of the Little Tennessee River upstream of Lost Bridge in Northern Macon County, the property had been in the family since the 1800 s. My great-grandfather had a store there long before there was a Hwy 28, Frank Duvall, son of Wayne, says. People would cross the river with their wagons and mules right by the ford on the property. Duvall says he and his brother, who both live in South Carolina, wanted to keep the land in its natural state. It s such a beautiful piece of bottomland. I m not a preservationist, but I like to leave things as they are. My brother and I wanted to share this great piece with everybody. By joining the Needmore Gamelands, Duvall is getting his wish for the land he loves. Recreational opportunities for local sportsmen are abundant, Fishermen in the Little Tennessee River at the Needmore Gamelands. as the mix of floodplain forest and openland is prime habitat for both game and non-game species. The property also offers easy river access for anglers and others. This particular section of the Little Tennessee River is considered the biological hotspot of Blue Ridge rivers, due to the presence of many rare aquatic species. This project represents the 7th property addition by LTLT to the Needmore Gamelands since the Franklin-based organization led the original campaign to conserve the 4,500-acre Needmore Tract. Acquired by the State of North Carolina in 2004, the Needmore Gamelands now encompass more than 5,000 acres and 30 miles of river frontage in Swain and Macon Counties. We began working with the Duvall family 8 years ago to reforest the riverbanks and clean up several bottomland areas that had been subject to illegal dumping, said Paul Carlson, LTLT Executive Director. Because Photo by Ralph Preston of the support from our donors, when the family communicated their desire to sell the property, LTLT was able to purchase and care for the property while we worked with the Wildlife Commission to secure the resources needed to add this beautiful tract to the Needmore. Established in 1997, LTLT works to conserve and restore land and water in the six western counties of North Carolina and to connect people to these resources. songs. That s where mostly I learned to play. That old life, I enjoyed it. Music has also been tied to her strong history as a churchgoer. In her youth, she attended Lands Creek Church with her family. I learned to sing with the piano at about 12, Cloer said. We didn t have much, but we had a lot because the good Lord. Most of all we liked jumping our rope. At church, Cloer said, everyone would sing. We d get up there little and big, she said. When she was 17, her family moved to Alarka and she became a member of East Alarka Baptist Church, where she still attends. Cloer married Thurman Cloer on Aug. 8, He worked hard and was good to the family, I m proud of that, she said of her husband who worked as a carpenter and served in the Navy during WWII. The couple had 14 children, 12 of whom are still surviving and all live in Swain County. In the 60s, Cloer and her daughters sang on the radio and traveled to area churches to sing. She s expecting her first great-great-great grandchild soon, and many of her children still live within walking distance of her house. I ve had a good life, Cloer said. I m almost 94 now. I still feel good and I m glad the Lord is letting me live. Cloer will turn 94 on Tuesday, Aug. 26. A birthday celebration will be held for her at the Senior Center on Saturday, Aug. 23. Special Kids Shoot planned Friday VFW Post 9281 will be hosting a special 12 and under kids shoot on Friday, Aug. 8 from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. This will be followed by our regular shoot from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. So, bring your sons, daughters, grandsons or granddaughters to the event. It s a golden opportunity to teach them shooting skills in a safety controlled environment. There is a 410 house gun available to use. Bring your kids out for a little competitive fun and maybe win a prize. For information, contact Ray Nelson at

8 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 8A RELIGION Bryson City Church of God dedicates youth building On Sunday, July 13, Bryson City Church of God held a dedication ceremony for the new youth building. Members have been working on this building for some time now. The building will be used to house morning and evening worship services for the youth. The church is looking forward to the many events and gatherings in the facility. They dedicate the building to the glory of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. During the dedication ceremony, the youth and pastor remained in the building, while the congregation circled around the entire building to pray, and to commit not just ourselves, but to making the best use of this building for the Lord s sake in coming days, months, years, and generations. Sunday, July 20 was the first service in the new building. Thanks to all those who participated. A special thank you to all those who sacrificed time, and those who worked seeing the building to completion. The Bryson City Church of God dedicated its new youth building on Sunday, July 13. Members of the church including several youth attended the dedication. The building will be used for numerous youth activities at the church. Submitted photos Children at Sawmill Hill Freewill Baptist Bible School ride ponies Submitted photos by April Hampton Sawmill Hill Freewill Baptist Church would like to thank David and Kim Loftis of The Nantahala Village Riding Stables for providing pony rides during the church s recent Bible School. Above, Peyton McGaha is getting ready to ride a pony. At right, Jonah Taylor is getting ready to ride a pony. CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS Wilmot Baptist singing Wilmot Baptist Church will have a Saturday Night singing featuring The Simple Faith Quartet from Leicester, N.C. on Saturday, Aug. 9 at 7 p.m. Pastor Johnny Rae Davis invites everyone to attend. Whittier Church of God celebrates 100 The Whittier Church of God will be celebrating its 100th year on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. Everyone is invited to come and help the church celebrate this special event. Bishop Randall Parris from the Church of God Cleveland Offices will be bringing a challenging message for the future of the church. Revival at Evangelistic Tabernacle Rev. David Hansel from Columbia, Ky., will be the guest speaker for a three day revival Wednesday- Friday, Aug at Evangelistic Tabernacle located at 5781 Grassy Branch. Service will begin at 7 p.m. each night. Come expecting God is moving. Mt. Zion Church to hold Auction Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church will be holding an auction at the Swain County Senior Citizen Community Center on Friday, Aug. 8. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The auction begins at 7 p.m. The event will be led by a local and wellknown auctioneer. A vast variety of items, including large ticket items, will be available for the bidding. Also, there will be raffle tickets available for a Johnny Morris Signature Series, exchange spools rod & reel, valued at $ All proceeds will go to support the Mt. Zion Church Building Fund. In addition, raffle tickets will be available for a Samsung I Pad valued at $ 189 to support the youth program. All tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5.00. Refreshments will be available. We welcome everyone to join us for an evening of fun and fellowship while supporting these worthwhile causes. The Center is located at 125 Brendle Street. For further information contact: Rev. David Watkins at Midway homecoming Baptist Midway Baptist Church wishes to invite everyone to their homecoming this Sunday, Aug. 10. Services begin at 10 a.m. followed by lunch and singing. Gospel sing benefit for Impact A gospel sing to benefit Impact Youth Outreach will be held at Darnell Farms 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9. Three groups will perform including The King Family, One Step Closer and Joshua s Tree. Everyone is welcome to attend.

9 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 9A COMMUNITY ALARKA Carolyn Cloer Our prayers and sympathy are with the family of Ben Price. He and his wife, Dorothy owned B & D Furniture. Remember Linda Nations in prayer. She has been in the hospital and is improving. Remember J.D. Estes of Conley s Creek in prayer. He is facing surgery this month. Remember Jake Buchanan in prayer. He was in ICU a couple of weeks ago with his diabetes and on Sunday he was flown to Mission by helicopter and was in a near death situation, but with many prayers and the doctors help his labs and his condition improved in 24 hours till he was able to come home on Monday evening. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope he is ready for school. Remember Glenda Maney in prayer. She has been really sick. We wish her a speedy recovery. The ladies of the Alarka Church of God had Hat Day Sunday in honor of Janette Bowers who is undergoing chemo treatments. She was very emotional and touched when she came in and saw all the ladies wearing hats. Continue to remember her in prayer. She will have surgery after she finishes treatments. We saw pictures of Ms. Dessie McGugan entering church Sunday with her pretty hat for Hat Day for Janette, but the best part was she was able to go in church with just a walker and not a wheelchair, for the first time in many months. Dessie is one spry and special little lady who has always been true to her church and a dear friend to us. She was also a happy looking great-great grandma to her newest addition to her family, Ridge Parton, son of Kelly and Landon Parton. Kelly and Landon Parton were at church on Sunday with their new son, Ridge, which was his first Sunday at Church. Speaking of Ridge, we apologize for the error in last week s paper, listing his name as Sage. Poor Betty Barnes and l sure can goof up, but just call it our Senior Moments. Travis and Dana Quick spent the weekend with her Mom, Judy Woodard. Trevor and Brenton Setzer spent the weekend with Betty Barnes. Travis and Dana Quick took them on a picnic and to Fontana Dam, which was their first time to go to Fontana Dam. They all had a great time. Trevor will be going to college at N.C. State Aug. 16 and Betty is sad he won t get to visit with her much for a while. We wish him luck! Leonard and Melody Oliver of New York spent a week with James and Evanell Collins. Michelle Collins spent the weekend with them. But they are all gone home now and Evanell is sad. It is always sad when our families have to leave. Nine youth and their leaders, Lisa Waldroup, Rita Jones, Lenard and Emma Waldroup of Mt. Vernon Church and about 40 youth and leaders of Victory Baptist Church and the Pastors, Jeff Waldroup and Jon Stephens spent last week at the Teen Revolution Youth Conference in Gatlinburg. Several other adults went over for services at night. They all had a wonderful time and there were many decisons made by so many of the youth. There were over 900 youth there and over 40 accepted Christ as their Savior. Mt. Vernon s youth had a testimony service at the Homecoming on Sunday, after a slide show of some of the happenings of the week were shown. We hear Victory Baptist had a service for their youth on Sunday, also. We hope next year more churches and more youth will think about going. On a personal note, I am so thankful for what it meant last year and this year to my granddaughters, Kasey and Katelyn and that it helps strengthen their relationship with the Lord. Mt. Vernon had a wonderful Homecoming on Sunday. Bro. Jim Frady brought a wonderful message, even though he was down in his back and could hardly walk. Remember him in prayer. He is supposed to have surgery in October. If anyone is hungry, there is going to be plenty more good eating on Alarka this month. Alarka Church of God will have a Cookout Saturday at the Alarka Fire Department Pavillion with games, food and fellowship. Any who wants to stop by is welcome. East Alarka Baptist Church will have Homecoming the 3rd Sunday in August, Alarka Church of God will have homecoming the 4th Sunday and the Bowers Reunion will be August 30 at the Alarka Community Center. So, anyone who wants to eat is welcome to any of these. Happy Birthday to Brian Richmond Aug. 7; Jenna Walker Aug. 8; Lori Waldroup, Austin Greene, James Waldroup, Emma Dingle, Calvin Mills, Aug. 11; Mike Tackett Aug. 12. Happy Anniversary to Jeff and Lisa Waldroup Aug. 10. We hope the students enjoy their last week of summer break and are ready for another great school year! Have a great week! Toot Hollow Circle~~ Tom and Teresa Sherrill of Wilmington have been up this weekend to get their daughter, Becca moved back to College at Western. WHITTIER Cathy Dunlap whittiernews@yahoo.com The Qualla Volunteer Fire and Rescue will host their annual Open House and BBQ Supper Saturday, Aug. 9 from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. The cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children under six. Please come out and support this worthy cause. They are an asset to our community! If you are unable to attend, you may send a donation to PO Box 303, Whittier, NC Qualla Volunteer Fire And Rescue is also celebrating a new and improved Class 6/9 rating. They have been working on this about three years. This goes into effect Nov. 1. This means you could be eligible for a better rate on residential house insurance. Thank you Qualla Volunteers and congratulations! We are proud of you and appreciate all you do for our community. Rev. David Baxter was honored with a luncheon after church Sunday, to celebrate his 75th birthday. It was suppose to be a surprise, but it s hard to surprise the minister. His wife, Ann, did surprise him by getting all the children and almost all the grandchildren home for the weekend. This included Jonathan of Carrboro, Andy and Susan of Charlotte, Susanna and Mark, Inman and Wade from Atlanta and Emmy from Boone. Rev. Baxter is the minister at Whittier United Methodist Church. Happy birthday to Tahquette Welch, Marissa Bradley, Rogers Shelton, Gini Standingdeer and Rev. David Baxter. Happy anniversary to Pam and John Boaze. Please pray for Judy Revis and Donna Stewart s son Steven. Mark your calendar for the next community outreach meal at Whittier United Methodist Church. It will be Friday, Aug. 15. It s that time of year when the area schools are back in session so watch for the kids, please! Some questions for you: why do cars not move over when you are trying to merge into traffic? Why do cars pass then zip in front of you to take the exit? Why are people rude? Why isn t everyone nice? I guess that s what make us individuals! Falci gives Civil War Round Table talk Submitted photo Parton baby boy birth announced Ridge Wayne Parton was born July 22, 2014 weighing 10 pounds six ounces and 22.5 inches long to parents Landon and Kelly Parton, of Almond. The baby is pictured with his big sister, Preslyn Loftis. Grandparents are Vernon and Sherry Loftis, of Alarka and Wayne and Paula Parton, of Johnson Branch. Great grandparents are Doyle and Shirley Loftis, of Alarka, and Dessie Parton of Almond. Great-great grandmother is Dessie McGugan of Alarka. August brings us the beginning of the new Western North Carolina Civil War Round Table year. For the first program of an exciting new season the Round Table presents actor and historian, Patrick Falci. His topic will be the making of the movie Gettysburg and a look at Lee s Forgotten General A. P. Hill. Join the group at 7 p.m. at the Mountain Heritage Center on the campus of WCU in Cullowhee. As usual you can meet with Round Table members and the speaker at 5:00 p.m. at Bogart s in Sylva for dinner. At 6:30 p.m. there will be a social at the Mountain Heritage Center, followed by Pat Falci s presentation in the auditorium. Falci portrays General Ambrose Powell Hill in the movie Gettysburg. He was the historical advisor to director/ screen writer Ron Maxwell for this movie and for Gods and Generals. He provided the casting director and actors with research for both films and has even scouted out locations in Maryland. He even took Maxwell on a Stonewall Jackson tour of Civil War battlefields and historical sites. Falci has spoken to countless Civil War Round Tables throughout the country and has consistently wowed them. He is the recipient of the CWRT/NY Distinguished Service Award, the Fort A. P. Hill Commander s Award for Excellence and many other awards. For many years Falci has been the face of General A. P. Hill. For years prior to that, he was a Civil War re-enactor with the 14th Tennessee Archer s Brigade, Hill s Light Division and has been immersed in the history of the Civil War even longer. In addition, he has traveled around the country giving presentations to Round Tables, Historical Organizations and school children on various Civil War topics. His school program is called The Life and Times of the Civil War Soldier. Falci travels to Petersburg, Va., each year on the anniversary of A. P. Hill s death (April 2) to give a speech and lay a wreath at the site of Hill s death. Come and join the Western North Carolina Civil War Round Table to welcome back Falci as we open our exciting series. Meet at Bogart s in Sylva for dinner with the speaker and our members. Then move to the Mountain Heritage Center on WCU s campus in Cullowhee for the social at 6:30 p.m., Falci s talk on the making of the movie Gettysburg and a look at Lee s Forgotten General, A. P. Hill will follow at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. See you there. For more information please call Richard Smith at (828) or Paul Turner at (828) Aug. 8 Movies on Everett: The whole family can enjoy this free family outdoor movie to begin around 8:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, with the film shown on a large movie screen near the back of Dolce Vita. VFW Turkey Shoot: The Local VFW Post 9281 will be hosting turkey shoots 7 p.m.-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays nights for 5 weeks July 25-Aug. 16 at Darnell Farms. Money raised will go to help support our troops and veterans. Prizes will be turkeys, hams or gift certificates. If we have enough participants we may even shoot for half a hog. For information, contact Ray Nelson, VFW Post 9281 publicity officer at Aug. 9 Music in the Mountains: The free concert series sponsored by the Swain County Chamber of Commerce in Bryson City is held from June- October at the Depot from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. DeHart reunion: The DeHart family will be celebrating its 85th annual reunion at Cold Springs Baptist Church on Cold Springs Road in the Fellowship Hall on Saturday, Aug. 9. The doors will open at 10 a.m. and lunch will begin around 1 p.m. Bring family pictures and history. For questions, david.dehart@ dehart.com. Aug. 10 Second Sunday Contra Dance: The next Second Sunday Contra Dance will be on Sunday, August 10. The dance will be held in the Community Room on the second floor of the old courthouse in the Jackson County Library Complex in Sylva. Contra dancing will begin at 2:30 p.m. and go on until 5 p.m. followed by a potluck dinner. Diane Silver will call the dance to the music of Out of the Woodwork led by Margie McDonald. All are invited. For more information, ronandcathy71@frontier.com. Aug. 11 Fracking documentary to be shown: Swain County Coalition Against Fracking is presenting a series of educational movies on the dangers of hydraulic fracturing. The coalition urges everyone to come view this documentary depicting what happens to the environment and property values if fracking is allowed. The following film will be shown free of charge Gasland 2 will be shown at Nantahala Brewery at 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 11. COMMUNITY CALENDAR Aug. 13 TEFAP distribution: The Manna TEFAP food distribution will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 13, from 1 p.m. 3 p.m. at the Swain County Recreation Park (in the old Pepsi plant). To receive food you must be income eligible or be a food stamp recipient. You should also bring bags or a box to carry your food. Upcoming County Commissioners meeting: The Swain County Board of Commissioners meeting regularly scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 12 has been cancelled and rescheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 19 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Swain County Administration Building. Blood drive: American Red Cross will have a blood donation drive at Victory Baptist Church, 2147 Fontana Road, Bryson City from 1 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21. For more information, or to schedule an appointment call Doris at CPR class offered: Bryson City Health & Fitness is hosting a certified CPR and AED training Tuesday, Aug. 26 from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. The ASHI certified class will be taught by the charity MedicForce and is offered at a discounted price. All profits will be used to help the disadvantaged in Kenya. Classes are limited to 15 places, pre-registration only. Call or ask at the reception to reserve a spot. Veterans Stand Down: Smoky Mountain Veterans Stand Down will be Thursday, Aug. 21 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Macon County Facility Building in Franklin, located at 1288 Georgia Road. The event will provide haircuts, military surplus gear, Veteran s benefit, local education services, housing support, medical and mental health services, food, and more for area veterans. For more information or transportation to the event, contact Mark Schuler at (828) or mark. schuler@nccommerce.com. Fracking public hearing: The N.C. Mining & Energy Commission has scheduled a public hearing on fracking from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12 at the John W. Bardo Fine & Performing Arts Center at Western Carolina University. The public is invited to attend to make public comment. Cooperative Extension Centennial Celebration: The Centennial Celebration ( ) for Cooperative Extension this year. Our Swain Extension Center is having a celebration on September 16 at the Swain Extension Center at SWCC from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. This will include historic photos; educational agriculture booths and some food with entertainment. Ongoing events Alzheimer s support group: Does someone you love suffer from memory loss issues? Sweet Thoughts, an Alzheimer s support group in Bryson City, offers free day care each Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 67 Bryson Avenue, for people facing memory loss. For information, call Betty Breedlove at Bingo at VFW on Tuesday: The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9281 in Bryson City holds two Bingo sessions every Tuesday night at 5:30 and 7 p.m. at the VFW Post 9281 at 120 ZJ Hyatt Road, Bryson City. For information, call Stephen Brown JUST LISTED WINCHESTER REALTY Call for pricing and terms

10 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 10A Classifieds LOST & FOUND LOST: $100 REWARD for lost camera, Kodak C340. A 100 year old Vet's camera, very sentimental pics on memory PAINTING D&L PAINTING AND PRES- SURE WASHING. Interior and Exterior Residential and Commercial Free Estimates. All work guaranteed. Call Lee Crisp, (828) or mobile MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES GENERAL EMPLOYMENT CLEANING-VACATION RENTAL. Cleaning person/company to clean large cabin in Almond, NC. Must be available May-January. Experience cleaning and reliable car are necessary. chas4344@aol.com or call The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has the following positions open: Public Health & Human Services Open Until Filled 1. C.N.A- Tsali Care Center 2. R.N- Tsali Care Center 3. Medication Aide- Tsali Care Center 4. Cook Tsali Care Center 5. Cook Supervisor Tsali Care Center 6. Sexual Assault Advocate- Domestic Violence *Please attach all required documents* *eg: Drivers License, Enrollment, Diplomas, and Certificates * THE CHEROKEE INDIAN HOSPITAL AUTHORITY has the following jobs available: FT Rehab Aide FT Property Control Clerk FT CNA / Case Management Support OPD FT Dental Assistant FT Clerk OPD FT LPN / Certified Medical Assistant ICC FT Physician / ER FT Dentist Satellite Clinic Anyone interested should pick up an application and position description from Teresa Carvalho or Deb Toineeta at the Cherokee Indian hospital Human Resources Office between the hours of 8:00am 4:00pm Monday Friday. This position will close August 4pm. Indian preference does apply and a current job application must be submitted. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of CIHA application. HIGHLANDS-CASHIERS HOSPITAL Positions now available: Family Nurse Practitioner, Med Surg & Emergency Registered Nurses, Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, Maintenance Mechanic, Clinical Coordinator, and Receptionist. Benefits available the first of the month following 60 days of full-time employment. Pre-Employment screening required. Call Human Resources. (828) , or apply online at Metal Framers, Drywall Hangers, Finishers and Layout men needed in Murphy area. Good wages company insurance and pension. For more info call: or Looking for a part time housekeepers. Apply in person Monday-Thursday, day shift, at Mountain View Manor, Bryson City. GENERAL EMPLOYMENT The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has the following positions open: Closing August 15, 4 pm 1. Corrections Officer- CIPD ($33,280-$41,600) 2. ERP Administrator- IT ($40,080-$50,100) Open Until Filled 1. EMT-P (Part-time) EMS 2. Teacher- Tribal Child Care 3. Teacher Assistant- Tribal Child Care 4. IT Auditor- Internal Audit 5. Attorney General- Legal 6. Early Childhood/Elementary Language Specialist- KPEP 7. Language Specialist Assistant- KPEP 8. Aquatics Coordinator- Cherokee Life 9. Exercise Physiologist- Cherokee Life 10. Kituwah Academy Teacher ($40,080-$50,100) *Please attach all required documents* *eg: Drivers license, Enrollment, Diplomas, Certificates* Fairfield Inn & Suites seeking Housekeepers and Front Desk Agents. Experience preferred. Please apply in person at 568 Painttown Road, Cherokee, NC (directly across from Harrah's Casino). Swain Soil & Water Conservation District Recruitment Announcement Education Coordinator/Administrative Assistant Job Description: The Swain Soil & Water Conservation District (Swain SWCD or the District) is seeking applications from qualified individuals interested in serving as the Education Coordinator/Administrative Assistant for the District. Responsibilities include creating and implementing conservation education within the local school system in grades K-12, promoting additional programs such as poster and essay contests, local Envirothon teams, and local field days. This position will also manage the administrative affairs of the District. Job Requirements: Applicant should demonstrate excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills. Graduation from high school supplemented by college-level course work in administrative office management, secretarial science and computer courses and three (3) to five (5) years of experience in responsible administrative or technical program assistance work, preferably involving public contact; considerable working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Publisher, and Access, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. Prior educational experience or back ground in natural resources is preferred. Occasional weekend or after-hours work is required. Duration of Employment and Benefits: This is a full-time, permanent position. Deadline: Applications and resumes are due no later than 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 21, Applications Form: Applications can be picked up at the Swain County Administration Building or printed from the Swain County website. Return applications and resumes before 4:00 p.m. Thursday, August 21st to the Administration Building, fax to , or mail to Swain County, Attn: Human Resources, P.O. Box 2321, Bryson City, NC An equal opportunity employer. You may also visit your local Employment Security Commission. Previous applicants will be considered. Release Date: August 4, 2014 GENERAL EMPLOYMENT NOTICE OF POSSIBLE ANTICIPATED VACANCY Swain County Schools Category: Child Nutrition/Cafeteria Assistant Date Posted: 8/4/2014 Location: Swain County Schools Date of Availability: August 2014 Date Closing: Until Filled Description: Cafeteria Assistant, Part Time Job Summary: Cafeteria Assistant will perform duties as directed by cafeteria manager, including quantity cooking by use of written recipe, serving food in a fast paced environment, operation of dish machine and operating computerized cash register. Qualifications: Heavy lifting required (up to 30 lbs.) Ability to work well with students, faculty and parents Ability to work as a team Able to work some nights and weekends for special school functions High School Diploma or equivalent Salary: NC State Salary Schedule Application Procedure: Apply Online at Selected candidates will be individually contacted for an interview. Swain County Schools does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, sex, age, disability or national origin in admission to, access to, and treatment in its programs and activities. FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL Supported Employment Program Macon and Jackson Counties The Employment Support Professional will be will be assisting adults with mental health and/ or substance use issues, for whom employment has not been achieved and/ or has been interrupted or intermittent. The Supported Employment program is a personcentered, individualized, evidence based service that provides assistance with choosing, acquiring, and maintaining competitive paid employment in the community. This role includes developing an employment plan, collaborating with outside behavioral health providers, families, natural supports, housing and other community service providers, coordinating services and participating in the individual's Person Centered Plan, and developing holistic and integrated interventions. To be considered for the position you must possess a HS/GED diploma, have reliable transportation with a valid driver's license, moderate computer skills and an openmind with a willingness to learn. For information about this position, please contact: reid.- smithdeal@meridianbhs.org For information on how to apply for a position with Meridian Behavioral Health Services, please visit our website: GREAT SMOKYS CABIN RENTALS is looking for a special someone to join their CLEANING/HOUSEKEEPING STAFF! Check out our website We have 50+ cabins that require an EXCEPTIONAL person to keep them CLEAN AND looking best to meet our guests expectations. Previous cleaning experience required. Please respond to Maggi Hutchison via margaret@gscrnc.com or call for appointment Please be prepared to submit past work history and references. MEDICAL Mountain View Manor has immediate openings for CNA's, full and part-time. Must be certified in NC. We invite you to join our family at Mountain View Manor helping us make a difference in Swain County. Please apply in person Monday Friday 9am-4pm. THE HERMITAGE, an Assisted Living and Memory Care Unit in Dillsboro, NC is looking for C.N.A.s, Dietary Aide/Cook and Med-Techs (Medication Aides). Pay DOE. CPR & Serve Safe a plus. Experience preferred. Drug screen and background checks are required. Contact the Business Office Manager (828) PART TIME HOUSEKEEPER NEEDED Hiring Cleaning person for Vacation Rental Cabins Must have transportation, be reliable, and honest! Call (828) PART TIME TWO PART TIME EMPLOY- MENT PEER MENTORS Supported Employment Program An Employment Peer Mentor is all of the following: 1. A current or former recipient of mental health or substance abuse services, 2. Is, or is qualified to be, a NC Certified Peer Support Specialist, 3. Has a minimum of HS/GED (or equivalent certificate from the Occupational Course of Study), and 4. Has been employed in any capacity in the past. One part time Employment Peer Mentor (EPM) will be working in and west of Jackson and Macon counties, the other part time EPM will be working in and east of Haywood County. As a EPM you will be assisting adults with mental health (MH) and/ or substance use (SA) issues, for whom employment has not been achieved and/ or has been interrupted or intermittent. The Supported Employment program is a person centered, individualized, evidence based service that provides assistance with choosing, acquiring and maintaining competitive paid employment in the community. For more information contact Reid Smithdeal, reid.- smithdeal@meridianbhs.org AUCTIONS West Swain Fire Department (WSFD) is accepting sealed bids on a 1988 Chevrolet 2500 series, 4x4, extended cab, long bed pickup; with 48,000 miles. Bids must be mailed between 8/10/14 and 9/10/14 to WSFD, PO Box 117, Almond, NC Include your name, address, telephone number, and amount of bid. Minimum $2,800 bid. WSFD reserves the right to refuse any and all bids. For more info call Bid, will be opened 9/17/14. MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE A END ROLLS of newsprint paper for $6. Great for wrapping, packing or using in the garden. Stop by Smoky Mountain Times office, 8:30am - 5pm, Monday through Friday WANTED TO BUY BUYERS OF ROLEX, GOLD, SILVER, JEWELRY, AND COLLECTIBLES, TOP DOL- LAR PAID. GOLD-N-CLIPPER, HIGHLANDS. (828) WANT TO BUY: Original wood-carving signed by JOHN WAHNETAH (deceased resident of Cherokee Reservation, NC) for gift to artisan's blood descendant who has no ancestor mementos. Please contact JoanTomSmith@hotmail.com MOTORCYCLES 1999 Custom Low Rider Harley Davidson V-Twin. Beautiful bike. $7,500 obo PETS & ANIMALS FOR SALE Kill fleas on contact on dogs and cats with DD-33 flea mist. Lasts longer. Pleasant odor. Contains NO Fipronil! N.C. Clampitt Hardware ( ). ( HOMES FOR RENT 1BR/1BA, all inclusive, includes power, water and sewer, cable TV and high speed internet access. $650/month plus $300/deposit. Call BR/2BA, dining room, living room, kitchen , APARTMENTS FOR RENT Efficiency apartment. Great for single or couple. 5 minutes west of Bryson City on Highway 74. Very clean & quiet. All utilities including complementary satellite TV is in monthly rent of $ Classifieds sell! Place an ad without leaving your office. thesmoky mountain times.com APARTMENTS FOR RENT 1 bedroom apartment. Water, power included. Deep Creek area. $550/month, $100/deposit /BR apartment, private entrance, living room/bedroom. 1 person only. No smoking/service animals only, all electricity furnished. $450/month Upscale, furnished 1BR/1BA apartment. Max 2 people, service animals only, no smoking. Owner/Broker $800/month plus utilities. MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT 2/BR 1/BA located in town. $450/month, water & septic included. Service animals only BR/1BA mobile. Quiet park in Ela. References/Background check required. $400/month, $300/deposit /1 Private lot W/D. $550/Month $500/Deposit For rent 2&3 bedroom mobiles. $550-$600 per month with sec deposit. City utilities, lease required Small 2 bedroom trailer in quiet park. Suitable for 1-2 people. Service animals only. References, background check. $450/month, $150/deposit COMMERCIAL FOR RENT For rent, spacious office/convenient location. Owner/Broker LOTS FOR RENT Mobile home or park model lot for rent. $250/month, septic and city water HOMES FOR SALE Can walk to downtown Bryson City. 180 Bryson Walk. 3 bedrooms plus, 2 baths. $75,000. Phone: LAND & LOTS FOR SALE 15+ acres of land. Fox Run Rd., Brush Creek Community. $50,000. Contact Raymond DeHart FOR SALE BY OWNER 4 acres for sale with frontage on Hwy 19E within the city limits of Bryson City. House on property in As Is Condition. Call for information MOBILE HOME LOTS. Green Acres Realty LEGALS 11 SP 19 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, SWAIN COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Robert C. Carlton a/k/a Robert Carlton to Bradley S. Tisdale, Trustee(s), which was dated January 2, 2007 and recorded on January 22, 2007 in Book at Page 0833, Swain County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 13, 2014 at 10:00AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Swain County, North Carolina, to wit: Being a portion of the lands, easements, privileges and appurtenances as are described in and conveyed by the Deed dated August 24, 2005, from Milburn E. Birchfield and wife, Myrtle J. Birchfield to Robert C. Carlton recorded in Deed Book at Pages , Macon County Land Registry, North Carolina, being more particularly described as follows: Lot 1 Tract 1 is more particularly described from the referenced deed BEGINNING on a 5/8" rebar set at the Southwest corner of Lot 1A above, and lying S E feet from the point of beginning for Lot 1A above. And from the point of beginning, with the line of Lot 1A, N E feet; and N E feet to a point in the centerline of a brand in the line of Lequire (DB and DB ) or Kirk (DB ). Then with the centerline of the creek and the line of Lequire (DB and DB ) or Kirk (DB ), S E feet; S E feet; South E feet; S E feet; and S W W feet. Then leaving the centerline of the creek and as a new line of severance from the parent tract, S margins of a drive; S W feet to a 5/8" rebar set; S W feet to a 5/8" rebar set at the end of a fence line; and with the fence line and YARD SALES Benefit yard sale. Veterans Blvd., Saturday, August 9 th, 8am-until Friday & Saturday, August 8 th and 9 th. 160 Battle Branch Rd. Yard tools, fishing gear. Friday, August 8 th, 8am-2pm, rain or shine Guge Rd, Bryson City Friday, Saturday 8am, Dr Riddle. Girls 0-18 months & 7/8. Multi-family garage sale. Saturday, 8am-? 39 Town Mountain Rd. Yard Sale August 9 th, 8am- 1pm, 2956 Balltown Road. Furniture, women & teens clothes, and Vera Bradley purses. continuing as a new line of severance from the parent tract, N W feet to the BEGINNING. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1540 Robinson Gap Road, Bryson City, NC THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX, AND THE COURT COSTS OF FORTY-FIVE CENTS (45 ) PER ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) PURSUANT TO NCGS 7A-308(a)(1). A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner (s) of the property is/are Robert C. Carlton. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. The notice shall also state that upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC PHONE: (910) FAX: (910) File No.: FC01 07/31-08/ SP 34 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, SWAIN COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Stephen C. Hanna to Aaron Anderson Brock & Scott, Trustee (s), which was dated October 19, 2007 and recorded on October 23, 2007 in Book at Page 0413, Swain County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and

11 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 11A Legals customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 18, 2014 at 11:00AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Swain County, North Carolina, to wit: Lying and being in the Greasy Branch Community, Charleston Township, Swain County, North Carolina and being a acre tract or parcel of land and more particularly described as follows: Beginning on an iron pin set in the line of Western Carolina University said point being located North West feet from a point near the center of an access road said point being the corner common to lot No. 50 and runs thence from said beginning point South West feet to a point in the centerline of a 12 foot graveled road; thence with the centerline of said graveled road the following courses and distances: along a curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing North West feet to a point in the center of said road; thence North West feet to a point in the centerline of said road in the beginning of a curve; thence with the center of said road and continuing with said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing North West feet to a point in the center of said road; thence North West feet to a point in the center of said road at the beginning of a curve; thence continuing with the center of said road and along said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing North West feet to a point in the center of said road at the beginning of a curve; thence continuing with the center of said road and along said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing North East feet to a point in the center of said road; thence North East feet; thence North East feet to a point in the centerline of said road at its intersection with another 12 foot wide graveled road; thence with the center of said 12 foot wide graveled road and with the line of Western Carolina University South East feet to a point in the center of said road at the beginning of a curve; thence continuing with the center of said road and along said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing South East feet to a point in the center of said road; thence south East feet to a point in the center p of said road at the beginning of a curve; thence continuing with the center of said road along said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing South Was feet to a point in the center of said road; thence South East feet to a point in the center of said road at the beginning of a curve; thence continuing with the center of said road and along said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing South East feet to a point in the center of said road; thence South East feet to a point in the center of said road at the beginning of a curve; thence continuing with the center of said road and along said curve which has a radius of feet for a length of feet, cord bearing South East feet to a point in the center of said road; and thence South East feet to a point in the center of said road; then leaving the center of said road and running with the line of Western Carolina University South West feet to the beginning and containing acres, more or less as surveyed by James T. Herron, dated April 22, For Source of title see Deed Book 135, page 440, Swain County Registry. There is excepted and reserved from this conveyance a right of way and easement for road or roads 12 feet in width lying 6 feet on either side of the centerline of the presently existing road said right of way and easement being for the purpose of providing ingress and egress to and from the above described premises to the public road and to the lands of others. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 222 Conrad Circle, Bryson, NC THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX, AND THE COURT COSTS OF FORTY-FIVE CENTS (45 ) PER ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) PURSUANT TO NCGS 7A-308(a)(1). A cash deposit (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is p being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner (s) of the property is/are Stephen C. Hanna. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. The notice shall also state that upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC PHONE: (910) FAX: (910) File No.: FC01 08/07-08/ State of North Carolina County of Swain In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division File No. 14-E-69 Notice to Creditors and Debtors of Roberta M. Howard. All person, firms, and corporations, having claims against Roberta M. Howard deceased, are notified to exhibit them to Pam Cunningham, Executrix, of the decedents estate on or before the 20th day of October 2014, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above named Executrix. This the 21st day of July, Pam Cunningham PO Box 1001 Bryson City, NC /31-08/ IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF SWAIN IN RE: PAULINE DILLS DILLARD Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of PAULINE DILLS DILLARD, Deceased, late of Swain County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned: Linda Langham, Administrator C/O John J. Pavey, Jr., Attorney at Law, Pavey Law Firm, P.A., 33 Dillsboro Road, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779, on or before October 29, 2014, OR THIS Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned. This the 28th, day of July, Linda Langham, Administrator C/O John J. Pavey, Jr. Attorney at Law Pavey Law Firm, P.A. 33 Dillsboro Road Sylva, North Carolina, /31-08/ STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE COUNTY OF SWAIN SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION File No. 14-E-70 NOTICE TO CREDITORSAND DEBTORS OF Rachel R. Sutton. All persons, firms and corporations, having claims against Rachel R. Sutton, deceased, are notified to exhibit them to Jennie S. Miller, Executrix of the decedent's estate on or before the 29th day of October, 2014, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above named Executor. This the 31st day of July, y y Jennie S. Miller, Executrix Estate of Rachel R. Sutton 35 Tanglewood Drive Whittier, NC /31-08/ a State of North Carolina County of Swain In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division File No. 14-E-57 Notice to Creditors and Debtors of Karen Sandlin Jacobs. All person, firms, and corporations, having claims against Karen Sandlin Jacobs deceased, are notified to exhibit them to Connie Jacobs Jenkins Administratrix, of the decedents estate on or before the 8th day of October 2014, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above named Connie Jacobs Jenkins, Administratrix. This the 11th day of July, Connie Jacobs Jenkins 26 McCurry Rd Bryson City, NC /17-08/

12 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 12A

13 Maroon Devils hit the ground running for new season By David Butler For the Swain County Maroon Devils, the fact that the team has not won a state championship since 2011 weighs heavily on everyone associated with the football program. It would not be a surprise for Maroon Devils to win the Smoky Mountain Conference in 2014 even though Swain County will be without six starters on offense and six starters on defense returning. There are no excuses in regards to the upcoming season. When the Maroon Devils lose key players that means it s time to reload and get back to work. The Swain County Football team had its first practice Friday, Aug. 1. People care about what we are doing, said head coach Neil Blankenship. We have Photo by David Butler/ Smoky Mountain Times Swain High School Varsity football players held their first day of practice on Friday, Aug. 1 on the middle school field. The team will play the first scrimmage game on Tuesday, Aug. 12 at Pisgah. a lot of pressure to live up to. Swain County is well known for their state championship winning ways, and the expectations have not changed for the 2014 season. The Tradition of our football team has been passed down from generation to generation, said offensive coordinator Jeff Marr. If you have ever seen the movie Friday Night Lights, that is kind of how our football team is. Senior running back/linebacker Spencer McCoy has been voted the SMC preseason player of the year by coaches. Spencer McCoy is our work-horse running back, said Blankenship. Last season, McCoy accounted for 1,648 all-purpose yards while adding 26 touchdowns in the mix for the Maroon Devils. None of that matters leading into the 2014 campaign. The 2014 season is approaching, and will present new challenges to this Maroon Devils squad. See Football, page 4B Photos by David Butler/ Smoky Mountain Times Above, defensive linemen are hitting the sled during a football drill. Above right, Swain County offense learning how to run a new play. Inside: More Back to School and Fall Sports coverage Aug. 15 Aug. 22 Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Swain County Maroon Devils Football Upcoming Games Mountain Heritage Scrimmage vs. East Henderson Smoky Mountain Mustangs vs. North Henderson vs. Franklin Tuscola Home Home Sylva Home Home Waynesville 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Mountain Discovery, Grace Academy ready for new year Page 2B SYSA accepting players for Fall Season travel team Page 4B Superintendent, Middle School principal messages Page 2B-3B Swain Volleyball coach to retire after 2014 season By David Butler reporter1@thesmokymountaintimes.com Sonya Blankenship has announced her retirement as the Swain County High School Volleyball Coach following the 2014 volleyball season after 21 years of coaching at the high school level. I had the privilege of someone taking a chance on me at East Henderson High School, Blankenship said. I was the head coach at East Henderson High School from fall of 1994 Aug. 16 Aug. 18 Aug. 19 Aug. 21 Aug. 26 Aug. 28 Sonya Blankenship through the fall of She became the volleyball head coach for Swain County Swain County Lady Devils Volleyball Upcoming Games Scrimmage Pisgah Franklin Cherokee Hayesville Murphy North Henderson Home Home Away Away Home High School in When asked why she wants to retire from teaching and coaching now, Blankenship said, I m starting a new venture and have a central office position as the Health Services Coordinator. She started working as the health services coordinator for Swain County Schools last August. The biggest part of coaching Blankenship is going to miss See Volleyball, page 4B All Day 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. East Principal Dills is ready for new year By David Butler reporter1@thesmokymountaintimes.com East Elementary School s Principal, Tommy Dills, said he is enthused about starting his first full year at the helm of the school. He was selected by the school board to become the next principal in Dec Dills officially started as the new principle on Jan. 4 of this year. Married with four children, Dills has been a part of the Swain County Education System since 2007 in different capacities. It was an opportunity, Dills said. I started thinking about how I was going to end my career and East Elementary provided the opportunity, so I took it. Born and raised in Swain County, Dills knows he has high standards to live up to. Message from Swain Schools Child Nutrition director 3B Tommy Dills I m ingrained in this community and can identify with the students I have in this building, and I m very much a part of this community, Dills said. This is home, and I really want to do right by it. As Dills begins his first full school year as principal, his main challenges are getting to know the faculty and bringing them together. I want to give the faculty the opportunity to realize their potential, he said. I also want to give the students the opportunity to succeed in the classroom. Along with the challenges, Dills has some goals for his first year, including focusing more on PLC s (Professional Learning Society) and doing everything he can to make sure the community is buying into what he is doing. I think it is going to be an evolving thing for us, because I m a risk taker, he said. The way things are now are not going to always stay the same. Dills brings a lot of different qualities to his new position of principal at East Elementary. I am willing to plan in the short term while also thinking about the long term picture, he said. I have the ability to and willingness to understand that everyone is not always going See Dills, page 3B

14 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 2B EDUCATION Mountain Discovery ready for upcoming school year By Jessica Webb Among the new faces at Mountain Discovery this fall will be Courtney Umphlett, the new music teacher, and Jane Matejcik, as a new member of the exceptional children s department. Umphlett will teach music classes and band and continue the program. She has been working with Jackson County Schools for three years teaching percussion ensemble prior to joining the staff at Mountain Discovery. We re still settling in to the common core and look forward to the next year, said Carter Petty, Mountain Discovery director. We hope they don t change it this early in the cycle. I don t think they ve given us the chance to see if it will work. Implemented in 2012, the N.C. Common Core standards are still in the early stages. The accountability models haven t even been rolled out yet, Petty said, which is expected to happen in the fall. Petty said both teachers and students have been working hard to learn the new curriculum standards and that it would be too bad if the state legislature sent the N.C. Department of Instruction back to the drawing board. As in years past, several field trips are planned for the fall and spring semesters, including the popular trip to Hazel Creek for the eighth graders. Last year, Petty said, the school had 90 field trips overall. The school is nearly fully enrolled, Petty said, with one spot in second grade and a short waiting list for some of the other grades. Even longer waiting lists sometimes evaporate, he said, adding that parents should not be discouraged. There are currently 187 students enrolled to start the school year, including 20 new kindergartners. With a focus on hands-on activities and getting children outside of the classroom to learn, Petty said: We feel like children internalize the curriculum better if they experience it, more than just practicing theory out of context skills in the classroom. To that effect, we try to give every lesson context now and for the future. Mountain Discovery is in its 13th year. As a charter school, the school is a public school and tuition is free for students. The school is still accountable to the state and its curriculum requirements, Petty said, but has more flexibility for setting its calendar and other things. Students from any area county can attend Mountain Discovery, although the school offers limited bus service. We really are excited to see the kids and start another school year, Petty said. Grace Christian Academy gearing up for another year By Jessica Webb editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com Bryson City s private Christian school, Grace Christian Academy, is gearing up for another school year to start for students on Friday, Aug. 8. A few new faces are joining the staff at the school, including preschool teachers Heather Morton (2 ½-3 year olds), Lauren Bulla and Amy Harrison (3 year olds). In addition, third and fourth graders will learn with Cashel Wikle. We re always looking forward to another year, and that the Lord will connect these students with their teachers, said Grace Academy Principal Al Alemany. Each day at the school begins with 40 minutes of bible study, the pledge to the American flag, and related studies in what Alemany calls Giving prime time to what s prime, the word of God. As a private school, there is a tuition fee for each student, although Alemany is quick to point out that it is affordable and that no child has ever been turned away. Our tuition has not changed in 10 years, he said. There are 47 students enrolled to start the new school year at Grace Academy, including preschoolers to seventh graders. The school teaches the A Beka Program, which was developed by Pensacola Christian College. The four cornerstones of operation for the school include a spiritual ministry with students, a traditional education philosophy, academic excellence and a high standard of conduct. An after school program is available. For returning students, expectations are high when it comes to reading. The school had a reading program at the school through the summer, and every student from kindergarten through fifth grade was able to have one on one reading with their proctor through the program. In addition, students had a 50- book challenge to read throughout the summer. Keeping children reading and learning throughout the summer was a goal of the program. If you re continually challenged, you ll do better than a child who just plays all summer, Alemany said. Photo by Jessica Webb/ Smoky Mountain Times Mountain Discovery Charter School students return for class on Monday, Aug. 11. As a charter school, students do not pay a tuition fee to attend. Grace Christian Academy students return Friday. Superintendent s message for year By Sam Pattillo Swain County Schools Superintendent The new school year brings a focus on attendance and being on time for school. Swain County businesses and community leaders recognize the importance for showing up for school and work as an important area for improvement. Business and industrial leaders would like to improve the dependability of its work force. In a collaborative effort, Swain County Schools will target attendance and showing up on time for classes. Our system will be publishing data on attendance for our system through multimedia outlets. Educators will also grow as we strive to strengthen 21st century skills, increase reading abilities, intensify science, technology, engineering, and mathematic skills, and ready students for their next steps. Swain County Schools has built strong collaborative partners with Southwestern Community College and Western Carolina University in a joint effort to better prepare our students, for the 21st century. In an effort to provide new learning opportunities for our students every student in grades 4-12 will have greater access to laptop computers. This investment will allow our students and staff to participate in learning communities within our district and beyond. Many of our students have taken advantage of summer learning opportunities provided by our system. Our summer camps provided project based learning opportunities in math and science. We are very excited about the new addition of these programs and look forward to expanding them in the near future. Our students and staff will be faced with many challenges this year. I ask for your partnership to face the changing climate ahead. We must keep our students needs at the center of all the decisions we make. Block party for Swain freshmen Friday Photo by Jessica Webb/ Smoky Mountain Times Swain County High School will be holding a block party for all incoming freshman beginning at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 8. All students attending the writing seminar currently being held at the high school are invited as well. Food and activities will be provided until 1 p.m. Schedules will not be handed out at this time nor will there be tours. It will just be a time for the newest members of SCHS to eat and have fellowship. Many of the freshman teachers will be in attendance, as well as administration. The official SCHS Freshman Orientation will be Thursday, Aug. 14, as part of the whole school open house. Open house will be scheduled from 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. for all students. Schedules will be handed out to all students during these times. All students and parents of the new freshman class will be meeting in the Performing Arts Center from 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Information regarding school expectations, general class and PE requirements, as well as computer regulations will be discussed. Schedules will be handed out after the meeting and tours of the campus will be conducted for all interested students. Open Houses planned at Swain Public Schools East Elementary Friday, Aug. 15 from 1 p.m.-6 p.m. West Elementary..... Friday, Aug. 15 from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. High School anytime during the normal school day Thursday, Aug. 14 Middle School anytime during the normal school day Thursday, Aug. 14 Superheroes needed for Big Brothers Big Sisters program Average, everyday heroes can make a difference in the lives of Swain County youth by becoming Bigs in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. You could be the next superhero in a child s life. To learn more about the program or apply to become a volunteer, go to or call (828)

15 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 3B Message from Swain Schools Child Nutrition director By Jennifer Brown Swain Schools Child Nutrition director The Swain County Schools Child Nutrition Program staff is looking forward to a new school year and getting back to work serving our children healthy, delicious and affordable meals. Healthy eating is so important to a child s overall health and ability to perform well in school. We are committed to providing healthy, great tasting meals and encourage all students to eat with us this upcoming year. Our cafeterias are required to follow strict nutritional guidelines that change some from year to year. This year we will be serving more whole grain foods. Whole grains such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, and whole grain pasta provide extra nutrients and fiber which Meal prices for lunches helps you feel fuller with less calories and aids in digestion. We will also be reducing sodium and saturated fat in our meals and providing more of the healthier unsaturated fats from plants foods. Lean proteins from both animal and plant sources will be provided at every meal. Every meal will be served with a great variety Breakfast All schools full price is $1.20 Lunch High, Middle Schools: full price is $2.60 Elementary: full price is $2.35 Preschool: full price is $2.20 Reduced price at all schools: $0.40 of fruits and vegetables and we will be encouraging kids to eat more of these foods as the benefits to a child s health are so great! Each cafeteria uses a computer system to keep an accurate count of what and when your child eats. We encourage parents to deposit money in their child s account weekly to avoid overdrawing their account and help kids learn to budget their money. This year we have a few new options when you want to deposit money into your child s account; you may send or take money directly to your child s school cafeteria or, new this year, you may deposit money into your child s account from any cafeteria in the district, you may also use our online payment system to deposit money (there is a small transaction fee to do this). When a child s account starts to get low we will notify parents through our automated phone messaging system, but you may call your child s cafeteria to check on his or her account balance any time the cafeteria is open or check online (there is no fee to check balances). Free and reduced price meal applications will be given out at your child s school. Only one application is required for each family and it is important that the application is filled out correctly. Applications may be filled out or updated at any point during the school year. Please let us know in the Child Nutrition Office if you have questions about your application or need help filling out the application. Meal prices for the school year are as follows: Breakfast: All schools full price is $1.20 and reduced price is no charge. Lunch: High school and middle school full price is $2.60, elementary full price is $2.35 and Pre-k is $2.20. Reduced price lunch at all schools is $.40. Adult meals are priced per item and each cafeteria can give you a list of these prices. Snacks will be available for purchase. All snacks will meet the new Smart Snacks standard which limits the overall calories, sugar, fat, and sodium in snacks. All snacks must also have main ingredients that are of nutritional value such as being whole grain rich, or the first ingredient must be a fruit, vegetable, dairy product, a protein food or have 10% daily value of calcium, potassium, vitamin D or dietary fiber. Beverages are limited to milk, water or 100% fruit or vegetable juice. Zero calorie flavored waters and green tea will also be available at the high school only. You can reach the Child Nutrition Office at ext or 5126 if you have questions. Also, please feel free to contact us with any suggestions or input you may have in how we can improve our cafeterias. Message from Swain Middle School principal By Brandon Sutton Middle School Principal Many exciting things are taking place at Swain County Middle School for the school year. We are looking to build on the success of Battle of the Books, History Day, Xtreme Reading, athletics, band, a redesigned AIG program, PBiS and the Content Literacy Initiative. We are striving to prepare our students academically for high school with 21st century skills, as they continue on their educational paths toward their future careers. Our daily schedule has changed. Students will now need to be in their classrooms by 7:55 a.m. to avoid being counted tardy. Classes will begin promptly at 7:55 a.m. Buses will dismiss at 3 p.m., 3:05 p.m. and parent pick-up will begin at 3:10 p.m. This is Dills: New East principal Continued from page 1B to be happy with every decision I make and that is part of the job. Not only does Dills feel like he can succeed as the principal at East Elementary, he also wanted to be more available to Brandon Sutton his own children. I wanted to be more accessible to my younger kids, so it was time I made a career change inside of education, Dills said. Before taking the East Elementary principal position, Dills has worked in the Swain due to an addition of time to our school day. By adding 20 minutes to our day, we have increased our instructional time by 3,600 minutes or 60 hours across the school year. The extension of our day is going to allow for us to provide more opportunity for remediation and enrichment. We will now be able to provide more students with access to Xtreme Reading, Language!, Corrective Reading, Battle of the Books, History Day, and a new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program. These activities provide our students with 21st Century skills as well as build core academic ability. To help our students succeed in high school, Swain Middle School will begin implementing The Leader in Me by Stephen Covey. The Leader in Me is an adaptation of Stephen Covey s, The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People. We are currently working on integrating The Leader in Me with our current school wide behavior plan, PBiS. The Leader in Me will help teach students traits to be successful in their future careers. Swain Middle School is also excited about new opportunities coming to our elective program. We will be offering Exploring Biomedical Technology to 8th graders. The health science program at the County School System in some capacity. He has been a football coach, the head baseball coach and the wrestling coach. Coaching just takes up so much of your time, and I wanted to finish my career in a way that I could also be there more for my kids, he said. high school is growing at such a rate that school leaders felt it would be beneficial to offer this at SMS. We have also been fortunate enough to add a theater design (drama) class to the 8th grade elective wheel. Starting with the school year, all sixth grade students will be required to take Computer Skills and Applications. As we grow our 1:1 initiative that will put a device in every middle schooler s hands, we felt it important to teach the skills needed to fully capitalize on the resources a device offers. Golden Leaf, the organization that helped fund the 1:1 initiative, is also providing funding for the addition of a Project Lead the Way (PLTW) class. This class will be offered to seventh and eighth graders during their elective times. PLTW will expose students to the world of engineering and biomedical science through a Swain afterschool program available Swain County students at East and West Elementary as well as the Middle School can participate in Swain County Schools After School program again this year. The program will run from 2:50 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The program provides students with homework help, tutoring, as well as remediation. Students may also participate in arts enrichment, physical fitness, and field trips. On top of that students will be provided a nutritional snack. Swain County After School program is a safe and affordable way for students to receive quality tutoring and educational opportunities. Cost for one student at East or West is $35 per week, and will begin on Wednesday August 20th. Cost for one student at the Middle School is $25 per week, with the Middle School beginning their After School program on Tuesday Sept. 2. If you are interested please contact any of the site coordinators: Faye Moon, East Coordinator, at ; Elaine Woodard, West Coordinator, at ; Mildred Jones, Middle School Coordinator, at ; or Toby Burrell, After School Director, at extension Another family movie planned at library The Marianna Black Library in Bryson City continues to show family movies each Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. The movies are free to the public and projected onto an 8 by 10 foot screen, with a theater sound system. The library will also be giving away one free movie check out voucher to each patron who attends the movie. Join us Tuesday, August 12, at 3:30 p.m., for family classic based on a book by Neil Gaiman. In this stop-motion animation Oscar nominee, curious young Coraline (voiced by Dakota Fanning) unlocks a door in her family s home and is transported to a universe that strangely resembles her own only better. But when her Other Mother (Teri Hatcher) doesn t want Coraline to return to reality, our heroine must summon an amazing amount of courage to go home and save her family. Popcorn, provided by the Friends of the Marianna Black Library, will be served in the library auditorium starting at 3:20 p.m. Note: Due to production studio guidelines, the library may not include movie titles in its United gift fund kick off breakfast Aug. 23 The United Gift Fund will start its fundraising season this year with the annual Kick Off Breakfast at the Bryson City Presbyterian Church. Hours this year are from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 23. The breakfast will be by Julia Hunt, with a host of volunteers. Dine in or carry out is available for $6 per person. Advance tickets are available at the United Community Bank or from any of the board members, including: Christine Colcord, Donna Ennis, Toby Allman, Mark Hanna, Betty Hyatt, Ann Marie Wright, Jessica Cline, Kathy Proctor and Debbie Mills. Care and Share for your favorite nonprofit groups and remember all the funds raised stay right here in Swain County. print advertising. Marianna Black Library, a member of the Fontana Regional Library, is located in Downtown Bryson City at the corner of Academy and Rector. For more information on the movie (including its title) or driving directions please call the library series of units that are filled with activity-, project-, and problem-based learning tasks that require students to solve real world problems. After analyzing ACT data, school leaders saw a need for students to get an earlier exposure to more rigorous science classes. To help prepare students for high school, all 7th graders will be required to take Earth Science. Passing Earth Science and the related NC Final Exam will allow students to receive high school credit while at the middle school. Currently, some eighth graders are given the opportunity to receive Math 1 credit. With growing competition for careers and college admission, it is important that we develop young adults that can compete. SMS will be hosting open house on Aug. 14 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Your child will be able to pick up their schedule, meet their teachers, and explore the building. Eighth grade students will also need to register for electives because of the new additions. If you are unable to attend, students will be able to pick up their schedules and 8th graders will be able to register for electives on the first day of school. We are excited about the new opportunities, changes, and possibilities at Swain Middle School, but, more importantly, we cannot wait to the see the smiling faces of our students and hearing about their exciting summer adventures. It is a great honor to share, with parents and the community, in the development of today s youth and tomorrow s leaders. Be sure to join us in this honor and excitement by liking Swain Middle School on Facebook, reading our tweets on Twitter or go our webpage nc.us/middle.

16 THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN TIMES Thursday, August 7, 2014 Page 4B Sports Sign up now for SYSA fall soccer If your child enjoys soccer, a travel team is the next step in their soccer development. Travel soccer teams play home and away games against other WNC teams. Teams are co-ed and for players ages Practice will begin the week of Monday, Aug. 11. Travel soccer sign-ups are open until Friday, Aug. 15. Register at the Swain County Rec Park soccer field Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 11 and Aug. 12 from 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. or by mail. Financial aid is available. For registration forms and more information, visit You may also contact Carolyn Porter at (828) or swainsoccerkids@gmail.com. Football: Team sets eyes on state, conference wins Continued from page 1B For us this summer it s been back to the basics, Marr said. All summer we have been weight training and working on the players footwork. When a football team loses six starters on both sides of the ball, leadership will be sorely missed. We have been working on perfecting our techniques and the most, she said, is watching the youth she coaches grow up. The one aspect that I will miss the most about coaching is the girls, she said. I love watching kids grow up and develop, not only as volleyball players, but as people too. Competition is the driving force behind all sports, and Blankenship admits she will miss it. have been trying to develop some leadership on this team, Marr said. Swain County returns starting middle linebacker Taylor Oros, senior, who led the Maroon Devils in tackles just a season ago. It s been a while since we have been out here practicing, Oros said. It feels good to be back out here getting ready for the new season. Oros knows the tradition and I will miss the competition greatly, she said. Her plan after retiring from coaching volleyball is to focus on her career. Pursuing whatever administration endeavor presents itself to me, Blankenship said. I m not actively seeking an administrative job, but I ll do whatever the county needs me to do. Blankenship knew that her time as the head coach was coming to a close. knows that anything less than a state championship would be a disappointment. Our goals are always the same. We want to win the conference and win a State Title, he said. The most daunting task facing the Maroon Devils is finding a new signal caller to operate the offense. Starting quarterback Raymius Smith has since graduated and a huge void has been left for the team to fill. Smith threw for 1,932 yards to go along with 23 touchdowns. Production like that will be hard to replace, but the team has players already with in-game experience. Swain County is not lacking talent at the quarterback position, but replacing a player like Smith will prove to be challenging. Quarterback Kobe Stephenson, sophomore, saw action in two games last season, and quarterback Trent Wright, junior, saw playing time in six games in For many Swain County Maroon Devils the first practice was an opportunity to continue to learn the basics. We have learned a lot at practice, said tackle Canaan Sellers, senior. For the first day, it was good to be back out here. The goals have been set for the upcoming season. Our Volleyball: Coach says she ll miss students the most Continued from page 1B Submitted photo Swain goal keeper Mazie Helpman guards the goal. Sign ups are currently being accepted for fall travel soccer. Five Swain Maroon Devils Softball Players selected as All-Star players NC Softball Coaches Association releases their All- State softball team for 2014 and five Lady Devils made the final cut. Seniors Maggie Sutton, Kendra Kirkland, and Brianna Stepp along with junior Taylor Shuler and freshman Sydney Call were all selected to the All-State 1A team for The same five were also named to the All District 8 1A team for Congratulations to all! When I took the county position, I felt like the time was near, she said. I had planned for it to be last year, but I could not finish and leave the incoming freshman that I had pulled up. When asked what Blankenship thought were the biggest demands placed on coaches she responded, The time is what is so demanding, but it is so rewarding to watch the players succeed. Throughout her coaching career, the job has not changed much for her. Coaching hasn t changed for me, but the generations of kids have changed, Blankenship said. The media, the instant gratification has changed kids, but your approach to kids has to become different. Blankenship offered words of wisdom for future volleyball players. Call for referees With the start of the school year just around the corner, now is the time to prepare for fall and winter sports. Officials are being sought for football and basketball in western North Carolina for all levels including youth league middle school and varsity. Training clinics are underway now, but there is still time to join. For more information, please call Curtis Lambert at (828) or ref1989@ yahoo.com. goals remain the same every year. Win our conference and win a State Championship, Sellers said. As in years previous, expectations are high the Maroon Devils plan to win. The football team has a great tradition already in place and winning is important. Swain County is a community that cares about winning, said Blankenship. My advice is to love the game and to enjoy the team camaraderie, she said. It is so important for kids to build bonds with one another when playing team sports.