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Several milestones mark January’s end
This week’s front page brings news of four milestones that mark the end of Jackson County’s January: the loss of an important political figure; the honoring of another; the celebration of a life that’s stretched more than a century; and an athletic feat that demonstrates the unlimited potential of a local athlete.
Two-term Commissioners’ Chairman Bruce Wike will be laid to rest today in Fairview Memorial Gardens. Though he was often a lightning rod for controversy during his eight years in office, Wike will long be remembered for his role in establishing the Jackson County Airport and the county’s water and sewer system. For four years, despite being the only Democrat on a three-member board, he found ways to reach consensus and keep the county moving forward. Those who served with him recall a man who could put aside personal differences and get along, and who could disagree without getting mad. Bruce Wike left his mark on Jackson County, and he will be missed.
January included a significant honor for Sylva’s four-term mayor, Brenda Oliver, when the Fairview Head Start center was dedicated in her honor. In addition to her efforts on behalf of the town of Sylva, Oliver, who is chairman of the Mountain Projects board, works tirelessly to improve the lives of area families and children. She is instrumental in the county’s multicultural efforts as well, and we’re happy to see Brenda recognized for her ongoing contribution to the well-being of our youngest citizens.
Sunday’s celebration of Bessie Nations’ 104th birthday shined a spotlight on a remarkable woman who traces her roots back to the pioneer days in what is now the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Life in the Western North Carolina mountains was difficult in the days before electricity and cars, and Bessie had to cultivate a garden and can food to keep her family fed. She met all her challenges with an upbeat attitude, and she was still smiling Sunday as relatives and friends crowded around her at Mountain Trace.
Smoky Mountain High School junior Cetera DeGraffenreid has been rewriting the record books since her first game. Last week she scored her 2,000th point and joined an elite group – she is now one of only five female WNC prep basketball players to surpass that scoring mark. The really neat thing is that Cetera doesn’t just score – she passes for assists, she goes after rebounds and loose balls, and she plays defense, and she has the triple doubles and hustle awards to prove it. Congratulations to Cetera, and to all the Lady Mustangs. Their consistent play has the team perched atop the WAC standings.
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