January-February 2021

The holiday season comes to Gerton -- as it always does (some things just stay the same!) Fresh greens and bright red bows line our scenic by-way on every road sign. Happy holidays to all.

Though we have not gathered as a community since February, we decorated the center with wreaths and a lighted Christmas tree shined brightly each night through the month of December. 

The lighted tree at night greeted all who came by en route to their various destinations. We hope this lighted tree lifted the spirits of all who looked our way!

Calendar of Events

No UHNGCC Activities until further Notice

January 1 - Friday, first day of 2021

January 18, Monday, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

February 2, Tuesday, Groundhog Day

February 14, Sunday, Valentine's Day

February 15, Monday, President's Day

President's Note

Few of us could have imagined at the start of this new decade that 2020 would have brought a Pandemic that would have so impacted our Community, Nation and the World. Most of us would like to have 20/20 vision from a medical perspective and I have thought about what clarity the year 2020 has brought to me personally and hopefully to others here in Gerton. I have been reminded about the importance of Kindness, Neighbors and Respect. We may not all have the same political, religious or ethnic backgrounds but we all are neighbors and strive for a safe and thriving community. My hope is that each of us can take the best of what has been brought into a clearer focus this past 12 months into 2021 to make Gerton a more special place to live.

On behalf of the Board of Directors I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a Happy and Prosperous New Year. We closed out the year with over 5,000 pounds of food and supplies being donated to Hickory Nut Gorge outreach – this is a huge accomplishment and shows our concern for those in need. We also kept up with our Highway Clean up program and did some basic maintenance to several areas of our Community Center Building. A special Thanks goes out to those that helped collect and assemble the greenery for our Holiday decorations place on our local street signs.

Finally, I want to Thank everyone who contributes their time and donations to our Community Center. A membership letter will be sent shortly to all members, our dues are $10 per person and since we are a 501(c) (3) any gift including your dues are tax deductible. If you are not currently a member you can request to be added to our organization by sending your contribution directly to UHNGCC PO Box 222, Gerton, NC 28735. We look forward to meeting again in 2021 once the virus is under control.

Happy New Year!

Stan Mobley

Chestnuts in bloom in Chestnut Hills, which will celebrate 100 years in 2022!

In the midst of November, when we think the colors of fall are behind us, all along the road toward Lake Lure, we have a reminder of spring at the end of fall! The shrub is called: Euonymous Alatus OR Winged Spindle OR Burning Bush. Perhaps the last name is the easiest to remember. The pink are not buds, but leaves!

UHNGCC Provides a Year of Help to Hickory Gorge Outreach:  Over 2.5 Tons of Food Given in 2020

Without question, the biggest call for good since the pandemic shut us down has been our community's support of the Outreach's food bank. Someone from the board has picked up food supplies from the post office twice a month. For example, in November, we took 326 pounds on November 16 and another

285 pounds on November 19. 

Our goal was to assist Outreach in their need to supply over 200 families with a Thanksgiving basket. On the shelves below, the food is stacked awaiting the prep team to assemble those baskets. Most of what is shown here was collected from neighbors in the Gerton community who have been generous with their gifts. 

Our last delivery to Hickory Nut Outreach took two cars on December 10. We dropped off 697 pounds, bringing our total for 2020 to over 5,000 pounds! There was no other organization, church, or school who provided more assistance in food supplies than Gerton. Jim Earnhardt, above, stands with some of the food we delivered. 

In the new year, UHNGCC will continue to collect food supplies and deliver to Hickory Nut Outreach. A new list of food supplies will be emailed in January.

Family Fun Holidays In The Hickory Nut Gorge 

Outside activities lighten spirits in Lake Lure 

 

Lake Lure, NC: The Chamber of Commerce of Hickory Nut Gorge invites families to participate in two outside events designed to lighten spirits for the holidays. Activities include a beachside bonfire for New Year’s Eve and the infamous Polar Plunge on New Year’s Day. 
 
“People need something light and happy right now after such a challenging year, and we have the perfect backdrop for outdoor, socially distant activities the whole family can enjoy,” said Laura Doster, Chamber Director.  
  

• A New Year’s Eve beachside bonfire with fireworks will be held at the beach in Lake Lure. The event will take place from 7-9:30, with fireworks going off at 9pm. A cash bar with beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks will be available. General admission is $10 per person and includes access to the beach, party favors, fun activities and music. (In case of inclement weather, event will be postponed to a future date to be announced. Pre-purchased tickets will be accepted.) 

  

• The Polar Plunge returns to Lake Lure on New Year’s Day! Gates at the beach will open at 10am, The Plunge is at 12 noon. There is a Registration Fee of $20 per person.  On-line registration will be offered soon.  Proceeds to support Chamber of Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure Fire & Rescue and Hickory Nut Gorge EMS.  

 
If you want to lighten your holidays, bring your family to Lake Lure. Check the website: https://hickorynutchamber.org/ for additional details and to register for these events online. Participation is limited in response to COVID, so pre-registration is required for the New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the Polar Plunge. 
# # # 
 
About The Chamber of Commerce of Hickory Nut Gorge: Our mission is to promote economic progress and quality of life in the Hickory Nut Gorge community while helping to protect the natural integrity and unity of the communities of the Gorge. The Chamber is a catalyst for the creation of activities and opportunities for both visitors and residents and promotes an atmosphere that encourages visitation, business growth, and a strong sense of community. 

Gerton's first snow on November 30 offers an appearance of wild turkeys, having just missed the Thanksgiving celebration!

WNCCommunities Offers Its First Virtual Presentation of the George H.V. Cecil Honors Program

 In the 71st year, more than 62 people gathered on zoom with more watching on YouTube on the evening of December 3 as western North Carolina communities were celebrated for the work they contributed in 2020. Seventy clubs entered the streamed-down form of the application process, and the collected $35,000 from major sponsors--Harrah's of Cherokee, Duke Energy, Biltmore Farms, First Citizens, The McClure Fund, Farm Central, Farm Bureau, Wells Fargo, and Carolina Farm Credit--will be equally divided among all who submitted the application. UHNGCC will receive its check for $500 in the next week.

The Honors Program has been named for George H.V. Cecil, the Founding Father of the WNCCommunities, who passed away this fall. His name will also appear on the George H.V. Cecil Scholarship Program, another program that he birthed. 

This year a total of 4,555 volunteers gave 112,180 hours of volunteer time, an investment of more than $3 million to enhance the lives of people in our communities. This year, 60 percent of the clubs participated in helping people with food insecurities, while another 20 percent helped neighbors by sharing their internet connectivity. High speed internet connectivity is increasingly a growing need throughout our region. UHNGCC does not presently have internet connectivity. The third largest area of communal giving came in making masks and distributing them throughout the area. 

The Farms to Families Food Boxes, in which 22 communities participated, delivered 50,000 boxes of food to those in need over eight months.

UHNGCC was named both in participating in our large giving to Hickory Nut Outreach in Lake Lure, and again in coordinating with Outreach to help with their growing client list. UHNGCC has given over TWO TONS of Food to Outreach since our collection for them began in earnest in March. 

Another victory, in which UHNGCC participated, was in helping the 2020 Census increase its participation. With a grant from Dogwood Health Trust, 2,907 names were added to the census helping our region gain an additional $4 million per year or $40 million over the next ten years.

The only traditional awards given out this year were The President's Awards--given to those clubs that have participated for 25 years or 50 years. UHNGCC has long been a member of the President's Club. New members this year were Spring Creek and Walnut Community, both in Madison County.

The Calico Cat, Junior, went to Golden Valley Community Club in Rutherford County and the Calico Cat was awarded to Glenville Community Development Club, for building a new 700 sq. ft. building in which to receive their intake items for their re-sale store. The Calico Cats are awarded to the clubs that have done the most to enhance their building that for many are the heart of their communities. Over the years, the UHNGCC has won the Calico Cat or Calico Cat Junior FIVE times. Our cats are displayed in the rear of the Center.

2020 has been a year like no other (as we are fully aware) in our collective lives. Thanks to all who participated in the ways you have to help those whose needs may be greater than our own.  We look forward to gathering in summer to celebrate July 4 as only small town America knows how to do it! 

Greenery Workshop Produces Hangings for all the Street Signs

On the morning of Monday, December 7, at 10 a.m.--the first Monday of December, as is our tradition--five of us gathered at the center, wearing masks. We turned on the fans opened the windows and doors and began work....

The various greens were laid out on tarps on the floor. Thanks to Sarah Gayle, Jim Earnhardt, Stan Mobley, and Mike Hamlin for doing the collecting of the greens.

Sylvia Sane, Jim Earnhardt, Sarah Gayle, Stan Mobley, and Margaret Whitt (not pictured) began to gather assorted greens, tie them together, attach a red bow, and place on the counting table. We needed 41. Sylvia purchased new red ribbons but also brought her iron down to the center and took the wrinkled ones--all the new ones were wrinkled--and ironed them before they were attached.

And this is what the finished greens looked like. Stan Mobley and Mike Hamlin then took the 41 bows and placed them on all street signs going off 74A, various signs, the post office. Just take a look as you drive the straightaway during the holiday season.

Sylvia Sane locates the timer and sets it for turn-on-at-6 p.m. and turn-off-at-10 p.m. We hope the Christmas lights shining out in the dark of night will add a moment of cheer to the many passersby.

Spectacular Sight in the Night Sky on Winter Solstice

Beginning on December 20 and on to the next several nights, in the southwestern sky in Gerton, you could see Saturn aligning with Jupiter. This picture was taken over the Smoky Mountains. (@greatsmokynps by @mt_productionsandphotos) 

The paths of the planets Jupiter and Saturn align every 20 years or so, but rarely so closely (both to each other and to the earth) as in Christmas week.  In astrology/astronomy the appearance of the two planets together is called a "conjunction."  Estimates of the last time vary from 1227 to 1625, but there is some speculation that this celestial event was also the "Star of Bethlehem."  

 The Department of Transportation--on their social media sites--features UHNGCC for being the first member of the Adopt-a-Highway program--and notes that we are still at it! Don't miss the next opportunity to keep Gerton (literally) clean!

Neighborhood News

Neighbor Passes Away

Anne Topping Bourne, 56, of Gerton, N. C., passed away on Sunday, November 29, 2020, at Advent Health in Hendersonville. Anne was born in Murphy, N. C. to the late Francis and Betsy Bourne on November 19, 1964. She lived in Murphy for a number of years before moving to the Asheville area. 

 
Anne graduated from TC Roberson High school. From there she attended Sweet Briar College, UNC-Chapel Hill, the University of Richmond, and DeVry University. Anne had a passion for learning and for teaching. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Tripp Bourne, Hubert Bourne, and by her sister, Elizabeth Bourne Morgan. She is survived by a brother, Clarke Bourne and his wife, Judy of Hayesville, N.C. Anne had several nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Anne was appreciated for her love of family, friends, and her animals. She was devoted to those she loved and was delighted in the love returned. Anne was always adopting animals that needed a home. 

 
Her graveside service was held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, December 9 at Calvary Episcopal Churchyard, 2840 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, with the Rev. J. Clarkson officiating. Per Covid19 restrictions, masks were required at the graveside service.

 
Memorials are requested to honor Anne at Asheville Humane Society at www. https://www.ashevillehumane.org/ or the charity of your choice. Morris Funeral and Cremation Care is serving the family and condolences may be sent to them through our website at www.morrisfamilycare.com.

_____________________________________________

Echo of the Gorge is published six times a year (bi-monthly) by the UHNGCC. News notes and photos may be sent to margaret.whitt@du.edu--information is always welcome. Photos this issue: Gloria Anders, Margaret Whitt, Karen Owensby, Syble Freeman, Chuck Mallory. 

UHNGCC Officers and Board for 2021: Stan Mobley, President; Jim Earnhardt, Vice President; Karen Owensby, Secretary; Sylvia Sane, Treasurer; Board: Jean Bradley, Margaret Whitt, Chuck Mallory.

November - December 2020

The Gerton Post Office has a new post-office-blue door. 

Calendar of Events

There will be NO community events through the end of the year. 

November 3, Tuesday - 2020 Election Day.  Last opportunity to cast your vote.

November 26, Thursday - THANKSGIVING

December 7, Monday -  10 a.m. Seasonal Greens Workshop

December 25, Friday - CHRISTMAS

December 31, Thursday - New Year's Eve

President's Note

As we enter into the last two months of 2020, I am reflecting on the past ten months and how our Community, State, Nation and the World have been impacted by the Covid-19 crisis. I am very appreciative to live in Gerton and have this supportive and caring Community. While many of our  seasonal neighbors did not make the trip to Gerton this year and we were not able to have our regular activities at the Community Center, I still feel a strong sense of Community. The Board of Directors is continuing to meet regularly to make sure the needs of our organization and building are met. We will not be having any Holiday activities sponsored by the UHNGCC, but we look forward to meeting again in 2021 when guidelines allow.

The Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach continues to need our help with food donations, gifts for the Holiday Season and funds for assistance with utilities for our local families in need. We are collecting donations at the Post Office and delivering supplies to the Outreach on a regular basis – Thank You for your continued support! If you have any questions on ways to support these efforts, please reach out to us at groundedingerton@gmail.com.

I wish each of you a safe and happy Holiday Season and look forward to meeting together again as a community once we have this Pandemic under control.

Thanks,

Stan Mobley

UHNGCC President

groundedingerton@gmail.com

End-of-Summer Litter Sweep 

In front: Sylvia Sane, Dawn Loftis, Karen Gamble. Behind sign: Stan Mobley, Karen Owensby, Mike Hamlin and Jim Earnhardt -- all in masks

On the September 11 morning at 10 a.m., we had seven people show up to clean up the highway between our two Welcome to Gerton signs. The crew collected six bags of recycled trash and six bags of trash for the Department of Transportation to pick up. One seemingly good umbrella and one really fine gardener's glove to be followed by its mate about 100 feet down the road were among the discarded items. The roadsides had not been mowed recently, but the hale and hearty sweepers climbed across ditches and into the thicket to get their bags full. Many thanks go to Sylvia Sane, Dawn Loftis, Karen Gamble, Stan Mobley, Karen Owensby, Mike Hamlin, and Jim Earnhardt. 

The work can be done in less than an hour; consider joining neighbors for the next pick up!

Downed -- and Repaired Community Sign

Stan Mobley and Chuck Mallory try to imagine what must have happened to the sign.

In the early morning hours of Wednesday, September 16, the UHNGCC information sign that has kept our Community informed about events, dinners and local happenings was “almost” destroyed when a vehicle left Highway 74-A and crashed. The identity of the vehicle or driver is not known as they left the scene (hopefully unharmed) before the Gerton Volunteer Fire Department responded to the call. The sign took a bad hit and initially we were not sure it could be repaired but as the sign says – We are “Gerton Strong” in more ways than one.

By taking a direct hit, the sign most likely kept the vehicle from crashing into the west end of our Community Center. Several Community members inspected the damage and after filing a police report Stan Mobley and Mike Hamlin removed the mangled mess for delivery to local Artist Blacksmith Dave MacDonald for inspection.

After determining the sign could be repaired - it was dismantled, cleaned and the necessary welding repairs were completed making it stronger than before. On Saturday, October 3, with a new coat of paint and the purchase of some new letters the sign is back in place and looking great. Hopefully it will continue to stand strong and serve as a means of keeping our Community informed for many years to come.

Mike Hamlin helps Stan Mobley get the damaged sign into the truck for delivery to our local artist blacksmith.

Dave MacDonald works his magic on the sign, and....

stands beside the like-new sign. 

Many thanks to Mike, Stan, and Dave who repaired the sign, cleaned it, added new letters.

UHNGCC Support for Outreach 

In the month of October, the Gerton community delivered a total of 535 pounds of food items for the Outreach's project of preparing 200 Thanksgiving meals for our neighbors. With a list provided by Outreach, we offered 366 pounds on October 12 and another 169 pounds on October 26. The Outreach has rented a new space just down from their facility to use for storing and preparation of their big projects. Almost all the food supplies on these shelves have come from the Gerton community. Their request for the meal include:

• cans of green beans
• cans of green peas
• cans of corn
• stuffing
• boxes of instant mashed potatoes (16 oz.)
• cake mix
• frosting

In the first October delivery someone provided some ice cream; another neighbor purchased ice cream cones and sprinkles. I know one family got an extra surprise! 

Please remember not to drop off out-of-date food items; only food you would eat yourself is appropriate. Many thanks for your ongoing generosity. Together, we can make a difference for others. 

October Board Meeting and WNCCommunities Award

At the Tuesday morning, October 20 board meeting, Sylvia Sane presented our awards check to the rest of the board--from left: Jean Bradley, Jim Earnhardt, Stan Mobley, Chuck Mallory, Sylvia Sane. This year the historical awards of Participating Community ($300), Engaged Community ($500), Community of Promise ($1,000) and Community of Distinction ($2,000) were not presented. Each community club who filled out the application was given an equal share of the total monies collected. We got out check for $410. Our money was put directly into our savings account. We are the process of getting bids for a new roof and taking care of delayed maintenance problems in our building, which is now over 100-years-old. We have the time now to be good stewards of a building that serves us all. More details about business the club has been taking care of will be sent in our annual dues letter.

A mid-October moment at Lake Lure suggests that it could as easily be late spring or early summer,

but a picture of golden leaves at Gerton on the same day suggests our color is more vibrant, but as Robert Frost reminds us, "Nothing gold can stay."

Journaling in the Time of a Pandemic

By Barbara Earnhardt

 I want to underscore the benefits that can come for writing journal entries that nobody else will grade or read!   Thoughts a writer scribbles down can change that person's mind. (A freshman writer I once had in class described how he planned to beat up his roommate.  But then, after reading what he had written, the feeling of anger lightened.  Studies show that college journal keepers have low rates of quitting.)

Writing personal journals--not really a diary--but of reflections on a problem or something that troubles the writer can 'clear the skies' in healing ways.  Providing writing material for people without them can be a true problem-solver for the suffering--as we do when we buy composition notebooks for the inmates at Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women.  The writer is talking to herself--and often realizes new ways of thinking about things.  And re-reading personal writing can be a great teacher--to help the writer realize she doesn't believe what she wrote anymore.  Or to see that old old ways of thinking--are just that. (And if any of the ECHO readers would like some guidance in starting their own journal, I'd be happy to counsel by phone.       --Barbara Earnhardt  357-5129)

Flowers in early fall: Goldenrod

the Cardinal Flower

and the Phlox

On Taking a Covid-19 Test

by Bonnie Moore

Hi sweet friends! I learned recently being sick isn’t the only reason you can be required to take a COVID -19 test. This was a surprise to me because I honestly know no one personally who has been sick, thankfully, but because my doctor wanted to do an Endoscopic procedure (looking down my throat) and for their safety and protection they wanted to make sure I was COVID free. My procedure was to be on a Friday and their office said show up Tuesday at this time and place for my COVID test.  (They also said all medication or supplements I might be taking must be stopped from Tuesday until the day of the procedure. )

Tuesday was a beautiful, blue sky kind of day--how bad could this be? I might have been concerned since the doctor’s office had been adamant I had to have the covid-19 test before they would do the procedure. I went to the drive-thru at the appointed time and place and was greeted by a nurse in full battle gear. She checked my name off a list and she too was adamant: no test -no procedure. I was feeling good, but beginning to be suspicious. I was there, wasn’t I, what was the big deal? Well, I soon learned; what Darth Vader had in mind with her 8 inch long flexible stick, was nothing like the gentle swabbing of the inside of the nostril shown on the nightly news. Between my gag reflex and a highly tuned sense of self preservation, my head jerked back, and I ended up laying across the passenger seat. 4 failed attempts!! Two in one nostril then she tried the other...same result.

The nurse once again insisted no acceptable test, no procedure. I did not know my nose was more than three inches deep but she assured me, all 8 inches of that swab would be used. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? 8 inches would go out the back of my skull wouldn’t it?   I looked at her like she had three heads!  In her defense, she was looking at me the same way.  In a few moments after some serious reflection, I nodded my head. And I grabbed hold of the steering wheel and felt that sucker go in my nose, take a sharp downward turn at the back of my throat and rub the dust off the top of my lung. I nearly wrenched the steering wheel right off my car!   By some miraculous engineering on God’s part, swab and body parted company soon enough and no blood or lasting damage was involved.

Public service announcement: do not volunteer to take that test......not that I did.  For me the decision was made then and there to stay quarantined at home till hell froze over or until a new method of testing for this virus was developed.  My brother-in-law, hearing I had lived through it, but just barely, sent me a text saying he had heard they had indeed come up with an improved testing method. It involved a rectal swab, but it slowed down the drive-in testing line considerably!!  NOT! He was lying of course, see what I have to work with?!  My adult son was off on Friday, and he was going to be my driver for the procedure, go figure, him driving and they stop hypertension medication for the test. 

Note: this was only my experience, and if you have had to take this test, you have my deepest sympathy and honest admiration.  Also note: if you have family or friends that have been affected by this illness, I am sincerely sorry that they have been affected. My description, while true, is lighthearted, to make you smile, not to minimize the pandemic all around us.

After Zeta, Areas of Gerton Lose a Day of Power

The winds on the night of October 28 blew a large tree across Pond Lane, obstructing traffic, and causing the tree to land on the power lines, bringing it perilously close to the pond water. Lines across the pond were also broken and hanging from tree branches. Men from Duke Energy borrow local boats and repair the problem. Soon, the power was working again. Funny how we take for granted that when we flip a switch, a light comes on....and do we ever notice when that does NOT happen. Thanks to those who work hard to keep our lights on and our computers connected. 

At press time, some people within our area are still without power. May this soon be remedied.

Some Moments in Nature

In Jjm Earnhardt's yard, a bear enjoys some bird feeder offerings,

while a deer watches...

and a turtle, too!

And at the Coast...

The Walsh-Infanzon family went to the beach in September: 

Photos of what we think was a black tip shark caught by a 14-year-old boy at Carolina Beach on the first day of our September beach vacation. Diego helped release the shark back into the ocean, and we all swam much closer to shore afterwards!

Thanks in part to Diego, the shark was re-located to the ocean. 

A Trip to Turkey

by Karen Owensby

A recent trip to Turkey reminds me again that Istanbul is my favorite city in the world. Friends told me I was crazy for planning an international trip during COVID. Not true! Turkey has implemented more precautions than the US. Face coverings are mandated; temperatures are checked before entering all restaurants and stores; hand washing products are everywhere. I encourage everyone to consider a trip to Istanbul where you will enjoy food (Turkish delight, mezze, fish, amazing fruits and vegetables), history (Ephesus, eight ancient civilizations), shopping (carpets, ceramics and many bazaars), architecture and the most amazing people you will ever meet. I can’t wait to return!

Places to See:

Hagia Sophia

Basilica Cistern

Library at Ephesus

Food to Eat:

Bream from Sea of Marmara

Neighborhood News

Scrap Metal and Aluminum Cans

Norris Lyda and his boys are continuing to pick up scrap metal, and they would like to add aluminum cans to their rounds. If you want to recycle your cans through Norris, just give him a call at 828-447-0804 or nlyda71@gmail.com

Resident Passes Away in Gerton

William Blanchard Gaines, 74, of Charleston, SC, husband of Linda Marie Lukow, entered into eternal rest on Monday, October 26, 2020. The family will receive friends from 5PM - 7PM on Friday, November 6, 2020 at the J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel. Due to Covid-19 Protocol, the number of attendees is limited to 30 at a time and all guests are required to wear a mask and practice social distancing. A graveside service will be held at Old St. Andrew Parish Churchyard.

Billy was born June 9, 1946 in Charleston, SC, son of the late Leonard C. Gaines and Catherine Elenore Blanchard Gaines. He was a graduate of St. Andrews High School and Trident Technical College, his career was established in the Heating & Air -Conditioning Service. He was active with John Wesley United Methodist Church, Bear Wallow Mountain Baptist Church, and Kairos Prison Ministry.

He is survived by his first wife, Linda Suzette Gaines and their children, Adina G. Garner (Greg) of Johns Island, SC and Tron C. Gaines (Becky) of Charleston, SC; his four grandchildren, Hunter and Ellie Garner, North and Saylor Gaines; his two cousins, Trudy Nash, and Scott Askew both of Roswell, GA. He was predeceased by two brothers, Leonard C. Gaines, Jr., and Fred B. Gaines.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Kairos Prison Ministry or John Wesley United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel, 3360 Glenn McConnell Parkway, Charleston, SC 29414. 

Editor's Note: Billy Gaines was the best kind of neighbor--he was always there to cook our BBQ at GertonFest, help in the kitchen for our fundraisers, bring generous food items to support our gifts to the Outreach. If you needed help, Billy would offer. He represented the best of Gerton. We will miss him. Our condolences to Linda and his family. 

    _________________________________________________________

THE ECHO OF THE GORGE is published bi-monthly by the UHNGCC. Officers for 2020: Stan Mobley, President; Jim Earnhardt, Vice President; Secretary, Karen Owensby; Treasurer, Sylvia Sane. Board members: Jean Bradley, Chuck Mallory, Margaret Whitt.

News for the ECHO may be sent to Margaret Whitt at margaret.whitt@du.edu. Photos and news always welcome. Photographers for this issue: Margaret Whitt, Stan Mobley, Karen Owensby, Jose Infanzon, Jim Earnhardt,

September - October 2020

July 4 Fireworks on Display over Gerton

On the night of July 4, we had about a hundred people pull off the road, stop by, get out of their cars to enjoy Gerton's show of fireworks. No UHNGCC-sponsored activity this year, but that didn't stop our neighbors from continuing to put on the kind of show we have come to enjoy so much on America's birthday! Thanks to all who provided this display.

Gifts to Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach

UHNGCC continues to support the Outreach in Lake Lure. We were featured in their July 2020 Newsletter.

Here is what they had to say about us:

       Did you know that Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Center (UHNGCC), located in Gerton, began the tradition of holding a monthly community dinner in 1958? Attendees have enjoyed a delicious meal while getting to know new neighbors. A huge supporter of Outreach, UHNGCC drops off food every two weeks, and since March, has provided 2,429 pounds of products. We are so thankful for this wonderful organization! 

Yes, over a ton of giving...but we don't stop there. We gave another 313 pounds at the end of July and then 320 pounds on August 17 plus six checks for a total of $475 for support of school supplies, the food pantry, and to help with utilities for those in need during these pandemic days. From January to June, Outreach has helped an average of 408 people each month.

Outreach earns most of their annual income to support their building and their needs from fundraisers, particularly the arts and crafts festival held twice each year--on Memorial day weekend and again in October. This year, both have had to be cancelled. 

Please bring your gifts of supplies to the Post Office and someone from the board will pick up and deliver to Outreach. Together, we make a difference for those in need.

President's Note

As our Community closes out the summer of 2020 and enters into another season, I wanted to say Thank You for your continued support of the UHNGCC and the few projects we have focused on during this year. We have done a tremendous job of supporting our neighbors at the Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach, kept up with our Highway Pick up commitments, worked to support the 2020 Census and continued work on a Gerton History Project.

The Hickory Nut Gorge Outreach continues to need our help with food donations, school supplies and funds for assistance with utilities for our local families in need. We are collecting donations at the Post Office and delivering supplies to the Outreach on a regular basis – Thank You for your continued support! We will be sponsoring our next Highway pickup in early September; please join us to support a clean community and hopefully meet some new neighbors. Several members of our Board of Directors are continuing to work on a Gerton History project that we look forward to sharing with the overall community sometime in 2021. You may be contacted by one of our members about contributing some type of pictures, documents or information about the history of this wonderful place we call home. If you feel you have something about the History of Gerton that you would like to share,  please feel free to reach out to us at groundedingerton@gmail.com and we will be happy to work with you.

On a final note there are two big opportunities to make sure you are counted and to support Gerton. The first is making sure you have completed your Census form; our compliance makes sure that our Community receives all available funds for a safe and thriving community. Please visit 2020census.org for a full explanation of the importance of the census and how your participation makes a difference in our region. The second opportunity is about Voting, please make sure you registered to vote, know all of the options for voting and exercise your right to be counted.

I wish each of you a safe and happy Fall and look forward to meeting together again as a community once we have this Pandemic under control.

Thanks,

Stan Mobley

groundedingerton@gmail.com

End of Summer Litter Sweep: Friday, September 11, 10 a.m.

A Highway Litter Pick-up is scheduled for Friday, September 11 at 10 a.m.

Volunteers will meet at the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Center, 4730 Gerton Hwy, Gerton.

Volunteers should wear good walking shoes.  The Community Center has a small supply of gloves available so volunteers may want to bring their own gloves to ensure they have a pair to use.

Orange safety vests and trash bags will be provided.

Physical distancing will be in place in accordance with the Covid-19 guidelines.

Look forward to seeing you there,

Mike Hamlin, Chair

What Is the 2020 Census?

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the United States and five U.S. territories.

The count is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. The 2020 Census counts the population in the United States and five U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail—between March 12-20. Look for information below if you have not received your documents or if you need assistance completing the forms.

The census provides critical data that lawmakers, business owners, teachers, and many others use to provide daily services, products, and support for you and your community. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and other resources based on census data.

The results of the census also determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and they are used to draw congressional and state legislative districts.

It's also in the Constitution: Article 1, Section 2, mandates that the country conduct a count of its population once every 10 years. The 2020 Census will mark the 24th time that the country has counted its population since 1790.

Participating in the census is required by law, even if you recently completed another survey from the Census Bureau. A complete and accurate count is critical for you and your community, because the results of the 2020 Census will affect community funding, congressional representation, and more.

You can find all necessary details on how to complete your Census Forms on their website 2020census.gov or you can utilize a phone option at 1-844-330-2020 to participate in the Census.

The Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Community Club is working to support efforts so all of our Neighbors and Community Members are accurately counted. If you or someone you know needs some type of assistance with their Census Documents an e-mail can be sent to gertoncensushelp@gmail.com and help will be provided. 

We have seen a good number of bears in Gerton this season. Here is one taking a leisurely stroll at 6:30 a.m. toward someone's morning trash!

In two summer days, we had over five inches of rain. Here you can see Gerton in the midst of that rain. 

Black Swallowtail and resin bees pay a visit to purple petunias and mini bi-color petunias, a newer hybrid, in the yard of Chuck Mallory and Jim Peine.

Coneflowers and black-eyed Susans accent the weeping pines, lambs ear, and copper grass in the front yard of Chuck and Jim. 

August Board Meeting

Full house at the August 18 UHNGCC Board Meeting. One-to-a-table: Jean Bradley, Chuck Mallory, Jim Earnhardt, Stan Mobley (standing). Not shown Margaret Whitt, and Sylvia Sane, taking picture.

We may not be gathering for shared meals, but the business of the club continues. 

In the back area of the serving room, just outside the library, Jim Earnhardt and Stan Mobley have been busy replacing the shelving that was taken down some years ago from the dining area. The shelves once held our various awards and certificates. The shelves will once again hold these awards. The Five Calico cats (junior and senior) will be displayed in their present resting place. This is the start, finally, of our Gerton History Wall. By the time it is safe to gather again, the long-awaited History Wall will have been started and our collective past will be a story to note. We will also welcome what others would like to share. The History Wall will always be a work-in-progress.

New Trail Parking Lot

Heading into Asheville, just before the Welcome to Gerton sign, turn left and you will find yourself in the new parking lot. At the end of the lot is a large wooden sign that will explain the expansion of the new trails that have been completed. Yes, it does look as if--sing it with me--they paved paradise to put in a parking lot! 

New Business Coming to Gerton:

Bearwallow Provision Company

by Nick Haigler, Marketing Manager

The Store is located on the right side of 74A coming from Bat Cave into Gerton.

We’re excited to announce the opening of Bearwallow Provision Company this fall in Gerton, NC! This will be a spot for tourists and locals alike, providing a spot to stop for drinks, snacks, and gear after hitting the trails.

Bear Pro Co. was brought to life by Erik Julian, a local to the area who is also a volunteer at the Gerton Fire Department. With so many hiking trails, fishing holes, and rock climbs around the Hickory Nut Gorge, we knew this would be the perfect opportunity to bring something new into the area.

We’re looking to open in early September stocked up with local goods and will be adding more and more gear to help continue your adventure. Eventually we’ll look to grow into a taproom and event space – we’re pumped for what we’ll be able to provide in the community.

Come in and see us! In the meantime, follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @BearProCo to stay up to date on everything going on. We’re located at 4612 Gerton Hwy, Gerton, NC 28735, We can’t wait to meet you all! 

Kate Loughran, plant ecologist and volunteer coordinator and Erik Julian, store owner.

Morning Coffee? Right here in Gerton at Studio 74

Sheila Padgett, Owner

The first six weeks has been a fun time to introduce the coffee counter at Studio 74 here in Gerton. I am also happy to see locals and tourists as well as board members stop by too! My hours have been limited to Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and in time I will be open through the week to accommodate the community.

My line of coffee is called Gerton Grounds with a variety of four:   Bearwallow Blend, Hickory Nut, Sunrise Espresso and Falls Branch Decaf. In addition to having drip coffee,  I will be offering frappes, cappuccinos, lattes and espresso drinks by Labor Day weekend.  

Happy customer enjoys a cup of coffee!

The honey I carry is local to Lake Lure and I am the only one with availability. It is called Lat 35 because Lake Lure is on the 35th latitude and the sourwood is special because the bees have just 3 weeks to gather from the sourwood blooms. It is delicious and free samples are available. 

Stop by for a sample soon.

Need a Present? How about Hamlin Ceramics

How about gifting a handmade pottery vase to a friend, family member, or loved one.   Each unique piece will brighten any room with its natural looking glaze surface inspired by lichens and moss and barnacles.  Vases are all functional and will hold water for any fresh flowers picked from your mountain residence.

All are available from full-time potter and Gerton resident, Mike Hamlin.

Pieces can be purchased from his website at www.hamlinceramics.com.  Once purchased, they can be delivered to your home in Gerton or you can pick it up at his house and studio.

ECHO of the GORGE is published six times (bi-monthly) a year by the UHNGCC. News notes and photos may be sent to margaret.whitt@du.edu -- Information is always welcome. Photos for this issue:

Sylvia Sane, Sheila Padgett, Mike Hamlin, Nick Haigler, Chuck Mallory.

UHNGCC Officers for 2020: Stan Mobley, President; Jim Earnhardt, Vice President; Karen Owensby, Secretary; Sylvia Sane, Treasurer: Board - Chuck Mallory, Jean Bradley, Margaret Whitt

PO Box 222, Gerton, NC  28735