Robbinsville – With the Town of Robbinsville opting not to hold a 9/11 commemoration this year, the Robbinsville Tourism Authority is considering an alternative event.
Board member Debbie Beasley suggested gathering people for prayer and to salute the American flag on the morning of Saturday, Sept. 11.
She also said the possible event could include prayers of hope as the COVID-19 pandemic continued.
“Why can’t we just set aside a time to maybe have some people gather and have a moment of silence in remembrance and honor, hope for things to get better and just take pride in really being a part of a thriving community,” Beasley said. “It wouldn’t have to be great and big; just a few of us gathering together not to be entertained, but to honor the flag being raised.”
Other board members agreed with Beasley. However, they acknowledged that it could be a challenge to put such an event together on short notice.
“I like the idea, but is it doable?,” said board member Dirk Cody. “How do you let people know?”
Robbinsville Tourism Authority Director Karen Taylor said she would promote such an event primarily with flyers and social media posts.
“We’ll see what we can make happen,” Taylor said. “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
Other news and notes
The board also discussed its annual Trunk or Treat event, which is currently scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 30. The board is looking at holding the event downtown, with various businesses distributing treats from their storefronts and vehicles.
“I like the idea of having it out with the kids getting to go from place to place and not having to be stuck in a car,” Beasley said.
Cody said he believed that the current plan would not pose as much COVID-19 danger as other ways the event could be conducted.
“I still think even now, you could do what we’re talking about doing safely,” Cody said.
The board is looking at running its event from 4-6 p.m. Graham County Schools’ Halloween event is scheduled to start at 6 p.m.
The board also heard its audit report from Certified Public Accountant Nancy D. Lux of the Waynesville-based Ray, Bumgarner, Kingshill and Associates firm. She noted an increase in occupancy tax collection, as more people visit the area due to its remoteness, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
Town Clerk Sonya Webster also said Airbnb and Vrbo lodging being counted also had a positive effect on the numbers.
“This year over last year, we had a $41,000 increase in cash, which basically was the net income for the year,” Lux said.
The authority’s unrestricted cash balance at the end of the fiscal year was $103,012, with restricted funds and net investment, and capital assets bringing the number to $112,300.