Free Take One
Volume 6 Issue 12
Covering Monterey and Surrounding Communities
DECEmber 11, 2020
Investor to stake $250K to recruit new town physician By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher
After over a 30-year practice in Monterey, Dr. Charles Gray Smith is retir-
ing on Dec. 26. Upon Dr. Charles Gray Smith’s retirement, the Health Care Board is looking to put another physician in place at the Cates-Gil
Medical Building. The Health Care Board intends to fill the space with a doctor by April 30, 2021. Until then, the Health Care Board will be actively
pursuing a temporary doctor, physician’s assistant or nurse-practitioner to move in. However, a private investor has proposed a unique
Right down Santa Claus lane
Photo by Rebekah Beeler
James “Coonie” Foster is honored as the 2020 Monterey Christmas Parade Grand Marshall.
See more Monterey Christmas Parade photos on 6A.
Monterey City Hall closed to public Monterey Mayor JJ Reels announced on Tuesday, Dec. 8, that the Monterey City Hall lobby will be closed to the public until further notice. Customers are asked to conduct business and pay their utility bills through the drivethrough customer window, when staffing allows it to be open. Due to the closure, no late fees will be assessed on December water bills. For questions, call Monterey City Hall at 839-3770.
Monterey announces Christmas parade contest winners By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher
Christmas was the look on everyone’s faces as the Monterey Christmas Parade kicked off the Monterey Mountain Christmas season on Saturday, Dec. 5. James “Coonie” Foster was the Monterey Christmas Parade’s Grand Marshall, surrounded by family as he sailed along the parade route through town. The Tennessee Nurses Honor Guard escorted resident physician, Dr. Gray Smith, and his wife in the parade upon the announcement of his retirement on Dec. 26. The parade was sponsored by the Town of Monterey and organized by an assembled committee of parade volunteers, chaired by Amy Martin. The parade committee also organized a Christmas float contest based on their “Country Christmas” theme. In the church category, first place went to Mt. Carmel Freewill Baptist Church, second to Hope in Christ
Fellowship Monterey and third to Monterey Wesleyan Church. In the business category, first place went to Perdue Farms, second to Holpp’s Lake and third place to KP Pet Grooming. For the non-profit category, first place went to the Tennessee Nurses Honor Guard, second to Bikers Against Bullies USA Middle Tennessee Chapter and third to Monterey Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6277. VFW Post 6277 donated their prize money to support the Monterey High School Junior ROTC program. Honorable mentions went to the mini Jeep Freak, the horses and mules, Clarkrange JROTC, Livingston Marching Band, and Tennessee Towing. “There were a lot of people from all over that came to our parade this year. There was a lot of excitement in Monterey; a lot of children. Seeing the joy and the smiles on the kids’ face made everything worth it. That’s what it was about
opportunity for the Town of Monterey. This unnamed investor is willing to provide up to $250,000 to update the Cates-Gil Building’s aesthetics, buy new equipment
and pay the new doctor’s first-year salary—with one condition. The condition is
• See MEDICAL • Continued on 7A
Monterey plans park property purchase By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher
In new business, the Monterey Board of Alderman voted to purchase a property to add to Meadow Creek Park during the regular session board meeting on Dec. 7. Last year, the Town of Monterey purchased lot 10 of a neighboring subdivision of the park which included “The Crag,” a popular destination for area rock climbers. Now the board intends to purchase adjacent property, lot 9, to have access to not only “The Crag,” but to the waterfall and the horseshoeshaped bluff-line and existing hiking trails leading to the natural scenic assets of the properties to include in the park. The purchase would expand the bluff-line for more rock climbing and hiking opportunities and allow for access to the park without crossing over private property. The property also presents the opportunity to expand on the existing hiking trails to build new trailheads. A resident of the park’s neighboring subdivision, Steven Maddox, said, “It is a beautiful natural area and deserves to be protected. I think it would make a nice addition to the park.
I think it is a one-time opportunity for the city and I suggest taking action right away.” Maddox also encourage the board to create rules, establish hours and ensure the enforcement of each for the park. The property is currently owned by Plateau Properties. Alderman Nathan Walker spoke with Rob Harrison of Plateau Properties who said the asking price was $49,000. Walker added that Harrison wanted to help Monterey acquire that property for the park and had offered a sale price of $43,500. “The Crag” property purchased by Monterey last year was also purchased from Plateau Properties. The money to purchase will come from the Health Care Fund, in which the Health Care Board met and recommended the board to acquire the property to add to the park, encouraging visitors to partake in a healthy and active lifestyle. Mayor JJ Reels said, “That is what that money is intended for is this kind of purchase. Like, Mr. Maddox said, I think it’s a generational purchase. If somebody else buys that
• See BUY • Continued on 7A
Monterey Senior Center continues caring for elderly during closure By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher
Photo by Rebekah Beeler
Bringing the excitement of a much anticipated Christmas, Santa makes his way down Commercial Ave. for the Monterey Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 5. to me,” Monterey Mayor JJ Reels said. He thanked parade committee chair
• See PRIZE • Continued on 3A
Paid for by Cameron Sexton for State Representative, Mark Elmore, Treasurer
Monterey Senior Center Director Saundra Gilmore updated Monterey’s Board of Aldermen and Mayor on the center’s closure due to COVID19. “Even though our doors are closed, we continue to serve the elder community,” Gilmore said. She reported that the Monterey Senior Center has delivered over 1,070 meals over the last five months of the closure and provided groceries through the Cares Act COVID-19
relief program. Currently, the center is preparing gift items and meals for the month of December, as Gilmore said, “So, it will enhance their lives.” She added that many have asked why the Monterey Senior Center is closed and she said, “We have to protect their lives. I don’t want anyone to become ill, under my watch.” Gilmore continued, “As soon as it’s possible, we will open the Senior Center. And you’re welcome to attend as soon as you’re 60.”
2A
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Our Town
Standing Stone Scribe
December 2020
Sandwich Board Meetings may be suspended, canceled or postponed due to COVID-19. Check before you meet.
Monterey FBC offers ESL classes
For those who would like to learn English as a Second Language (ESL), free classes are offered at Monterey First Baptist Church, 106 N. Chestnut Ave., on Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. Call 8392971 for more information.
FCE Club meets fourth Monday
The Monterey Family and Consumer Education Club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at the Monterey Senior Center at 6:30 p.m.
Civitan Club meets third Tuesdays
The Monterey Civitan holds monthly meetings on the third Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Monterey Methodist Church fellowship hall. Anyone interested in joining the Monterey Civitan Club is welcomed and encouraged to come to the meetings.
Monterey Senior Center-CLOSED
Check out the Monterey Senior Center this month! • Exercise– Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m. • Bridge– Monday and Thursday at 1 p.m. • Wednesday Socials: 10:30 a.m. • Thursday Extras: 10 a.m. • Friday Art: 10 a.m. If schools are closed due to inclement weather, the Monterey Senior Center will also be closed.The Center is located at 105 N. Elmore, Monterey, TN. Contact the Senior Center by calling 839-8053. Membership is free for those 60 and over. Come and see what we are all about. Please stop by the center to see what new adventures have been added. Regular center hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Monterey VFW meet first Thursdays
VFW Post 6277 meetings are the first Thursday of every month starting at 6 p.m. VFW Post 6277 is located at 101 South Poplar St., Monterey, TN, and is open to all veterans who have served in a war or conflict.
Monterey Branch Library
Come visit with us at the Monterey Branch Library (MBL) this month and stay connected, stay well-read and stay active in the community. There is something for everyone at Monterey Branch Library, whether it’s for family leisure time or homeschooling resources. Book Sale- Friends of the Monterey Library Book Sale on the first Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Used book donations are accepted during normal library hours. Story time Wednesdays 11 a.m. Come visit with us at the Monterey Branch Library (MBL) this month and stay connected, stay well-read and stay active in the community. There is something for everyone at Monterey Branch Library, whether it’s for family leisure time or homeschooling resources.
Scribe Editorial Policy
Standing Stone Scribe is a monthly broadsheet publication covering news features regarding people, churches, schools, clubs, organizations, history, and events in Monterey and surrounding communities from Mayland to Rickman, Calfkiller to Crawford. Editorial Policy: Standing Stone Scribe encourages event and news submissions and letters to the editor. Submissions should not be libelous and must bear the author’s name, complete address and telephone number. Anonymous submissions will not be accepted. The Standing Stone Scribe newspaper reserves the right to accept, reject or edit any and all submissions and advertisements intended for publication. Copy Deadline: All submissions must be received by the Friday before the first Monday of the month. Standing Stone Scribe publications are set to be printed generally on the Thursday following the first Monday of the month with the exception of Monday holidays in which the Scribe will be printed the following Thursday. The Scribe welcomes electronic submissions at editorstandingstonescribe@gmail.com. Advertisements: Get the word out about your business, service or organization, increase traffic, expand your customer base, and communicate directly with the community you serve. Ad rates are $4.50 per column inch and with a monthly publication your advertisements have a longer shelf life. For information email editorstandingstonescribe@gmail.com or cal 931-265-9489.
Farmers Market still open for yard sales
Hike & Bike Meadow Creek Park
Monterey Lions Club hosts Saturday Turkey Shoots
UCHRA commodities distribution set for Dec. 17
Though it’s the winter months and the farmers have packed in their crops for the long sleep, Monterey Farmers Market is still open and available for yard sales. Hours are Thursday evenings 3-6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Call the Monterey Depot Museum for a permit at 8392111.
Come join the Monterey Lions Club for a good time and win nice cuts of meat and cash prizes. The turkey shoots take place on Hwy. 70 past the Bee Rock entrance at 10 a.m. For more information, call 267-2647 or 839-2350. Turkey Shoot dates are: Dec. 19, Jan. 2, Jan. 16 and Jan. 30.
Lions Building for event rental
Starting in July, the Monterey Lions Club will be renting out the Club’s building for parties, events and gatherings. The cost is $50 for a 3-hour slot and $100 for an all day event. For those who would like to rent the Monterey Lions Club building for their event, call 931-839-2350. Contact Mike Callahan at 839-2350 for more information. Forms are available at 108 E. Commercial Ave.
Suicide prevention resources available
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800273-8255) is one such free resource that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for anyone who is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Join Monterey Disaster Response Team
The Monterey Lions Club Disaster Relief is a non-profit organization meeting the needs of those faced with natural disasters. The team needs donations of water, canned goods and money to make trips to and from disaster areas and also welcomes volunteers to help in relief missions. Contact Ken Hall at 239-3318 to help.
Monterey Board meets on first Mondays
The Town of Monterey holds monthly board meetings open to the public every first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Monterey Municiple Building. It is important for residents to see how the city is being managed and to take advantage of the opportunity use their voices. Everyone who has a vested interest in the town, its direction and prospects, as well as the necessity to understand city processes, programs and issues is encouraged to attend. The town hall meeting will have a signin sheet for those who wish to speak and give time for them to bring up important issues for discussion.
Garden Club meets second Tuesdays
Join the Monterey Garden Club. All are welcome! Please join us! The Monterey Garden Club meets at the Monterey Methodist Church Fellowship Hall every second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The Garden Club welcomes new members and visitors to come listen to guest speakers and demonstrators, get tips and develop a successful green thumb. For more information, contact Monterey Garden Club President Deborah Wolfe by calling 839-6756 or emailing dcwolfe52@ yahoo.com.
SSHS/Monterey Hometown Project meets
The Standing Stone Historical Society/Monterey Hometown Project meets at 6 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month at the Monterey Depot Museum. Standing Stone Day is a local holiday that is observed annually on the second Saturday in October. Monterey Hometown Project meets diretly following the Standing Stone Historical Society meeting. Monterey Hometown Project is a group organized under the Standing Stone Historical Society to raise funds to make improvements to the Town of Monterey. All are welcome!
UCDD offers assistance
Are you raising a relative child or need housing assistance? For more information on assistance and support, please contact Melissa Allison at the Upper Cumberland Developments District toll free at 1-877-275-8233. A support group meeting will be held for relatives that are caring for relative children, during the month of November. Please contact Melissa Allison at 931-476-4127, if you are interested in attending this meeting. For housing assistance while caring for minor child, contact Myra Walker at 931-432-4111.
Continue your active lifestyle during the cold months at Meadow Creek Park. Meadow Creek Park now boasts two miles of completed trail builds for scenic hiking and biking in Monterey, thanks to the UC SORBA volunteer trail builders. The park is located at four miles east of Monterey along Hwy. 64 at 19195 Clarkrange Hwy.
The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) will hold a commodities distribution for Putnam County on Thursday, Dec. 17, from 9 a.m. until noon at Trinity Assembly Church of God, The Nest. Sign up will be available at the distribution site. UCHRA does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, color, national origin, religion, or disability in admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services or activities. This project is funded under a Grant Contract with the State of Tennessee.
The Cottage to reopen
The Cottage thrift store at the Monterey United Methodist Church reopened in July. They offer new inventory and new pricing and have so missed their friends and patrons. They ask for everyone to exercise precautions, use gloves and masks and will have some available for their shoppers’ safety. Note: if there is a spike in local COVID19 cases, The Cottage will remain closed.
Titus House wants to help
Need clothes? We can help! Titus House, 306 W. Crawford Avenue in Monterey, provides free clothing to anyone in need. Titus Hous is open the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon except for September and October when it is open the third Saturday. Titus House accepts donations of clean, dry clothing in bags or boxes. These may be dropped off at Titus House. Please put donations underneath the carport at the end of the Titus House driveway. Titus House appreciates your donations! Titus House is an outreach program of the Monterey Church of Christ. Questions regarding Titus House please call (931) 2527676.
SCV active in community
The Champ Ferguson- Standing Stone Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) Post 2014 Help preserve Southern Heritage and join in the Capt. Champ Ferguson-Standing Stone #2014 Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV). For more information, contact Jack Looper at 445-2050 or Rooster Barnes at 510-2211. God Save the South!
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O, Tannenbaum...
Standing Stone Scribe
3A
December 2020
Photo by Rebekah Beeler
Left, helper elf Keshia Lovell assists as Trina and John Hunt work with Sienna and Kadence with their ornament decorating at City Hall to hang on the Monterey town Christmas tree.
Photo by Rebekah Beeler
Right, Otto Wagoner is intent on getting his ornament done for the Monterey Christmas tree at City Hall. Photo by Cassidy Imes
Left, Lilly and Ava Imes proudly hang their homemade Christmas ornaments with the others on the Christmas tree at City Hall.
Photo by Cassidy Imes
Right, Benjamin Solomon is eager to make the finishing touch on his ornament for the city tree.
Left, after decorating, Deloy Bowman kindly lights the Hanging Limb Christmas Tree to the delight of those participating on Dec. 7.
Photos submitted Jesse Bowman’s idea to decorate a Hanging Limb Community Christmas Tree comes with a beautiful tribute as he wrote, “Our little tree carries a huge load. It stands in honor of the service member serving away from home, the health care worker taking care of our loved ones, the ambulance crew and fire fighters responding to an emergency, and the police officers patrolling to keep everyone safe. They never stop, and spend their Christmas away from their tree. This stands so they have one no matter where they are. It stands for the family that couldn’t afford one, and sacrificed [having] a tree so their family could eat and have their needs met. Our tree may be small but it stands tall so that everyone has a tree.”
Right, several Hanging Limb Community children take turns to pitch in to decorate the community tree.
• PRIZE • Continued from 1A Amy Martin for organizing the parade, as well as the all the committee members and volunteers for their hard work and commitment to attending meetings and putting the event together. “Together, everybody made this parade happen,” he said.
Among those who pitched in and helped with the event was Randall Hopkins who volunteered his time and, using his bucket truck, put a lot of Christmas lights up for the town. IDK Café even offered free hot chocolate and coffee to Monterey Christmas Parade attendees to help keep them warm as they waited for it to start.
“It was the best Christmas parade I’ve ever seen,” Reels added as he said thank you to the all citizens who came out to the parade. Though he noted that social distancing was being practiced, he continued, “It was emotional to me to see the amount of people who came out to see the parade.”
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4A
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Standing Stone Scribe
Christmas Dave Says 1990
A poem by Franny M. Ray Special to the Scribe
Christmas is for those who care, not what you spend, or what you wear. Christmas faces when Santa Claus comes is where the season’s joy comes from. The spirit of giving rides high in the air. The parties go on, and you must be there. The decorating gets down to the wire, and there’s not much time to sit by the fire. There’s last minute gifts that have to be bought. How frantic we get when they can’t be sought. The hustle and bustle is a hectic scene. We don’t have time to let the love light beam. So God help us please to not forget the true reason why this date was set. The birth of your Son on that starry night, when shepherds came, and angels took flight. He gave us hope and He gave us life, and He gives us strength through all our strife. So let’s take time to give our hearts a lift, for we, who believe, received the greatest gift. The Christ child was born, that we may live, and we should be glorious with the thanks we give. Another concern I’d like to add, ‘cause when folks ain’t with us, we are sad, So on Christmas Eve, look at the stars, say a prayer for our Desert Shield buddies, because we care. Editor’s note: There are some people who make the world beautiful just by being a part of it. Franny Ray is one such a person. We celebrate and cherish her. Franny has long supported the Town of Monterey through her many works, willingness to serve, memberships in civic clubs and the love she has for her hometown and the people in it. Because of her quiet benevolence, Monterey, and those who live here, have benefitted greatly. May we all take a lesson from her example as a friend to the community, a help to those around her and as a graceful Southern lady whose thoughtfulness and care towards others are unmatched. ~World
Hope can’t be taken from you Dear Dave, I lost my job a few days ago. We had an idea cuts were coming, but I thought it wouldn’t happen until well into the new year. My wife works, so that’s a good thing, and we’re both in our thirties. Do you have any advice for how we should handle things during the Christmas season and until I’m working again? Brandon Dear Brandon, I’m really sorry to hear this. Losing your job around the holidays can feel like a nightmare. But before you despair, remember this is also the season of hope. And hope can’t be taken from you. It can only be surrendered. Keep your head held high, and focus on what’s still in your control. First, cut back on your spending. When your income changes for the worse, eliminating all unnecessary spending is key. This is not the time to put Christmas on a credit card, or dip into retirement to cover holiday expenses. The last thing you should do right now is steal from your future to buy more stuff. Find some kind of seasonal work. Even if you’re packing boxes or stocking shelves, you’re contributing to your household and easing the stress. This side income will be a real blessing as you continue your career search. Be open with your family, and what this change means. If there are kids in the picture, you and your wife should be in agreement on how you handle things where they’re concerned. Explain to them in an honest, loving way what has happened, and that Christmas will look a little different this year. A couple of inexpensive gifts may not be out of the question, but as
Dave Ramsey harsh as it sounds, presents are not a priority right now. It may be uncomfortable or disappointing for everyone, but it can also offer a bonding opportunity and a valuable life lesson. Keep a positive outlook, and stick to your normal routine as much as possible in the days ahead. Wake up early every morning, and make a list of things you will accomplish that day. Update your résumé, start networking, and begin submitting applications like that’s your new job. Work hard, stay hopeful, and focus on the goals ahead of you. Refuse to give up, Brandon, and you will succeed. May God bless you and your family! —Dave Patience, determination…and time Dear Dave, One of my resolutions this year was to start living on a budget, and gain control of my money. I never realized how easy it would be to get discouraged early on. Can you give me some encouragement to help make my financial resolutions stick in 2021? Collin Dear Collin, The secret to making a goal into a reality is getting started. It’sreally that simple.You also have to be realistic and accept the fact that nothing—especially things you’ve never done before—works out per-
fectly the first time around. That leads to the next step, which is patience. Most people think about losing 20 pounds, and immediately feel it needs to happen in the next month or so. It doesn’t. And mostly likely, it won’t. Like almost everything else worth doing, it’s something that requires sacrifice and focus each dayover an extended period of time. Crash courses are usually painful and rarely work out well. But once you’ve done something a few times, it becomes an easier and easier part of your daily routine. Pretty soon, it’s not a chore or something you’re afraid of. Making a budget and gaining control of your financesworksthe same way. When you first create a money plan, it probably won’t work out exactly as you hoped. That’s okay. It will barely work the second month, but it won’t be as scary, because you’ve already done it once. By the third month, you’ll have a much better feel for it, and your stress levels will go way down because you already know the basics. It just takes determination, patience, and intensity to get through the rough patches that go along with starting anything new. A new year is just around the corner, Collin. Don’t fall into the same old trap. Give yourself a little grace, but keep your eyes on the prize. Start preparing yourself now. You’ve got plenty of time to begin laying out a plan, and have a solid budget ready when January 1st arrives.It may feel like things are beginningslowly, but you can make this happen if you’ll just stick with it! —Dave Will my mother-in-law be okay? Dear Dave, My mother-in-law is 60. She works hard and has no debt, but she also has no savings or retirement accounts. However, she owns a couple of paid-for rental
December 2020
properties that are worth about $350,000 each, and her home is worth $700,000. What can I do to help her plan for the future? Paul Dear Paul, The best plan would be to first see if she’s already got a plan. I understand you’re worried about her not having any savings or retirement. That makes you a good sonin-law. But it sounds to me like she’s got the makings of a pretty good retirementsituation lined up, even if she didn’t go the traditional route to get there. You just told me she’s sitting on nearly $1.5 million in paidfor real estate. Dude, she’s a millionaire! If the time comes where she decides she doesn’t like landlording anymore or just wants to retire,she can always sell the rental properties, invest that big pile of cash in mutual funds, and live off the income. I’ve got a feeling this lady isn’t going to be starving or depending on Social Insecurity. If you’re concerned about things, just sit down with her and let her know. Ask her if she needs any help with her money situation and plans for retirement. If she doesn’t want to talk about it right now, that’s fine, but making the offer shows you care. And, having a good, strong game plan means fewer worries! —Dave • • • Dave Ramsey is a seventime #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Dave Ramsey Show, heard by more than 16 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.
How to avoid overspending Simple ways to make an on Christmas impact this Christmas You’ve been there. You open up a holiday sale email, and the colorful images of trendy new items make you drool a little. You click into the store, ready to shop for Christmas gifts. There’s a gorgeous handbag that immediately makes you think of your best friend, but even the sale price is more than you planned to spend on her. You know what? Last year, your friend bought your daughter an animatronic Disney princess carriage. So, you kind of owe it to her to splurge on her gift. And the sale price on the bag is truly a good deal. You can just imagine the look on her face when she opens such a beautiful gift. Order now! Boom! You immediately go to your email inbox again, and seeing that order confirmation email makes you feel so accomplished. But what you’re really feeling are the effects of emotional spending. That twinge of happiness and excitement is dopamine rushing through your brain like a drug. You can get the same effect by going for a run, listening to your favorite music, or eating sugar. The crazy thing is, retailers know you get that hit when you place an order, and you can get it again when they send you that little email saying your
Rachel Cruz order has shipped. And you’ll get it again when you see that coveted package waiting on your doorstep. Three in four people said that buying something impulsively during the pandemic has positively affected their mood.1 We’re all a little scared, the future is kind of up in the air, and it feels good to just dull the stress and spark some joy with a little harmless shopping. And you know what feels even better than spending money on yourself? Spending money on other people. Now that the holidays are upon us, every commercial you see or email you read is full of ideas for gift giving. And there’s nothing wrong with giving—if it’s in your budget and you can afford the gift. Giving truly is the most fun you can have with money. But just like in the example above, at some point, we’ve all spent more money than we planned on Christmas
presents. Maybe we’re trying to buy “Christmas spirit” or approval from others. Whatever the motivation, it comes from a place of emotion, and that can get you into trouble with money. The people in your life don’t need more presents—what they truly want is your presence. If you want to feel at peace this holiday season, make a plan for your money before you spend it. A budget gives you permission to spend on the people you love without putting yourself in a bad place financially. That way, when January rolls around, you’ll have meaningful memories without the guilt! • • • Rachel Cruze is a twotime #1 national bestselling author, financial expert and host of The Rachel Cruze Show. She has appeared on Good Morning America, TODAY Show and Live! With Kelly & Ryan, among others. Since 2010, Rachel has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches people to avoid debt, save money, budget and how to win with money at any stage in life. Follow Rachel on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube or online at rachelcruze.com.
We need some extra Christmas cheer this year. 2020 took all of us on a chaotic roller-coaster ride, and many people in our communities are scared, broken, hurting, and hungry. They’re worried about the future. They’ve lost jobs, or even loved ones. What if we looked at this year as an opportunity to reset how we do things at Christmas? Our neighbors and friends and family are searching for anything that resembles normalcy, and we get to decide to be the kind of people who offer hope. Let’s focus on giving instead of getting. Now, there’s nothing wrong with buying some nice things and enjoying Christmas festivities. But skipping around the mall with a credit card, or going crazy with online shopping will only ignite a spark of happiness that’s gone by December 26th. When we practice generosity, we get to make an impact on someone’s life that can last for years. Here are a few simple ways you can impact someone’s life this year: Share Your Talents - Use your skills to bless others. If you’re a musician, host an outdoor Christmas concert. If you’re a financial coach, give away free sessions to people in a financial hole.
Chris Hogan Offer to Babysit - Childcare is expensive. With more families being forced to homeschool and work from home, you can offer a much-needed break for worn-out parents. Provide Gifts for Children in Need - There are children in your community without families, or in low-income situations, who might not get any gifts on Christmas morning. Do something about it! Deliver Meals on Wheels - Elderly people are some of the most vulnerable in our society, and among the hardest-hit by the coronavirus pandemic. Dropping off a meal is an easy way to check up on them and honor them. Write Letters - A handwritten note is a rare gift these days. There are plenty of services that help coordinate volunteers, who write letters to nursing home residents or members of our military overseas.
Sponsor a Family Anonymously - You can be Santa Claus for a friend or a family in need. Take your family shopping, wrap the gifts, and then leave them on someone’s doorstep as a Christmas surprise. Donate to a Local Nonprofit or Church - Find an organization that’s doing good work, and support them financially through year-end giving. This is just the start. If you brainstorm creative ways to be generous this year, I think you’ll start to get excited for how much fun this can be. In a world that needs hope, don’t wait around for someone else to step up to the plate. It’s up to you and me to set an example worth following! • • • Chris Hogan is a twotime #1 national bestselling author, financial expert and host of The Chris Hogan Show. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, Fox Business, Yahoo! Finance, and the Rachael Ray Show. Since 2005, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he gives practical money advice on retirement, investing and building wealth. Follow Chris on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube or online at chrishogan360. com.
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Hello, market... welcome blessings...
7 Wildcats Honored With Region Awards By Russell Ellis
Courtesy of UC Sports Nation
Photo submitted
Marilyn Schmidt, surrounded by fellow vendors and city officials, officially opens Hello Market Blessings craft shop on Nov. 2.
Hello Market Blessings brings local artisans and shoppers together By Cassidy Imes
Scribe correspondent
Marilyn Schmidt is the proud owner of Hello Market Blessings. She has been a resident of Monterey for 20 years, after moving here from Illinois. She originally wanted to open a gallery to display art from her friends and neighbors in Cumberland Cove. “We had so much talent in the Cove,” she said. Complications caused issues with the gallery idea, but Schmidt decided to overcome them and open one anyway. Soon after, she received a call from local artisan, Charlotte McCowan, with an interesting idea. They decided to meet at a potential location for the storefront and together they decided to include lo-
cal vendors’ wares in the inventory. Hello Market Blessings opened their doors on Nov. 2, starting with eight vendors. After being open for only a month, their business has grown to include 16 local vendors. At 83 years old, this is Schmidt’s first time owning a business and she is loving it. She said, “It’s exciting. I’m having fun with it!” There are many crafters and artists with many homemade crafts to offer, such as candles, hats, scarves, art, books, devotionals, soaps, T-shirts, and much more. Schmidt is also eager to use her business to spread the gospel by offering books and devotionals.
She plans to continue expanding her business and be an active part of Monterey’s community. She’s determined to overcome any obstacle that may cause issues, such as COVID-19. She said, “We’re looking forward to having years together… maybe have customers come in one at a time if need be.” Schmidt sees a bright and positive future for her business and hopes to continue to share it with the community. Located at 109C S. Holly St. in Monterey, Hello Market Blessings is the home of the blessing tree, where joy is created. Business hours are MondaySaturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
First Volunteer provides over 179K meals to communities First Volunteer Bank provided 179,569 meals across its footprint during the COVID-19 pandemic after their successful canned food drive, Tailgate-A-Palooza. The Bank partnered with the community, customers, schools, churches and local businesses to raise money and collect as many non-perishable food items as possible to help residents in its footprint. Tailgate-A-Palooza is an annual event and, in a year difficult for many
with the holiday season quickly approaching, donations are needed now more than ever. “Many Americans have been displaced from their jobs and families could go without food this year. We believe it is important to do everything in our power to help the communities we serve by providing for those in need,” said First Volunteer President and CEO Patti Steele. First Volunteer is grateful for the efforts of its generous customer and communities whose part-
nership made this possible. The bank would like to thank the community for supporting this annual event and is already looking forward to next year’s Tailgate-A-Palooza. About First Volunteer Bank First Volunteer is a 116year-old bank that started in 1904. First Volunteer Bank is a community bank with $1.186 billion in total assets and 24 banking locations serving nine counties in Tennessee and two counties in North Georgia.
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December 2020
After a season that saw them go 8-3 and make it to the second round of the State Playoffs, seven Monterey Wildcats were given All-Region Honors for their performances throughout the season. Mason Bowman was named the Region 4-1A Most Valuable Player after rushing for 1,330 yards and 17 touchdowns. The sophomore added a receiving touchdown and a kickoff return touchdown as well, and he accounted for 26 tackles on defense, six of which were for a loss. Grant Hoover was named the Offensive Lineman of the Year, with the most
impressive stat being that he allowed zero sacks in 11 games. On defense, he added 31 tackles, 10 for loss and five sacks. Anthony Soberanis earned the Special Teams Player of the Year award after he contributed 61 tackles and two interceptions on defense. The following Wildcats earned All-Region Honors as well: Matthew Montgomery (Quarterback): 1,022 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, 273 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. Carter Charlton (Defensive End/Tight End): 41 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, five sacks, nine catches for 189 yards and two touchdowns. Denver Smith (Offensive Line/Defensive Line): 28
Pancakes, 27 tackles, nine tackles for loss and three sacks. Michael Allred (Wide Receiver/Defensive Back): 34 tackles, one interception, 264 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Eli Saylors (Wide Receiver/Defensive Back): 14 catches for 204 yards and two touchdowns, 25 tackles and four interceptions. Chandler Bowden (Wide Receiver/Defensive Back): 16 catches for 275 yards and three touchdowns, 18 tackles and two interceptions. Byron Borjas (Defensive End/Tight End): 36 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks, two catches for 21 yards and one touchdown.
IDK Café puts the ‘home’ in homecooking By Rebekah Beeler
Scribe publisher
Community-minded restaurateur Jennie Phillips made her dream of owning a restaurant come true this year when she opened IDK Café on July 1. IDK stands for “I Don’t Know,” because Phillips said when you ask your family, “Where do you want to eat?” and they answer, “I don’t know,” just bring them to her at IDK Café and they will have an answer to those mealtime dilemmas. “I always wanted to open a café,” she said. “I love to cook. If I’m traveling, the biggest thing I look for is a unique café. I want to go to a family-owned restaurant and taste the food and the community-style of home cooking.” Phillips was born and raised in Hanging Limb
Community. She’s always considered Monterey to be her hometown. Her intent with IDK Café is, as she said, “Just being a part of Monterey, my home-
town, getting reacquainted and making new friends and serving the best food
• See HOME • Continued on 7A
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Mountain Times
Standing Stone Scribe
December 2020
Jingle all the way! Santa throws sweet treats as families wave to him at the Monterey Christmas Parade creating a beautiful vision of Christmas.
Photos by Rebekah Beeler
Left, with Cousin Eddie (Randall Hopkins), we can have the hap-haphappiest Christmas this side of the nuthouse.
Right, the Monterey 2020 Christmas Parade brings tidings of great joy—at least for the most part.
Welcome to Monterey, where a Jeep is a Jeep no matter how small.
Monterey Wildcat Football team never has a blue Christmas—their Christmas is always purple and white!
Right, anticipating the beginning of the Monterey Christmas Parade are Elias Whittaker, Isaac Hargis, Anna Carol Phillips, Aubree Whittaker and Lakelynn Whittaker with little Everly Whittaker who is anxious to get back to watch. You can almost hear the sleigh bells ringing as Straight Layne Farm hitches up the mules and wagon to ride in the Monterey 2020 Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 5.
Mayor JJ Reels and family hitch a ride on Matt Groover’s Classic Christmas truck to wish everyone a Merry Monterey Christmas!
Non-profit organization, Bikers Against Bullies, are sleigh-ing it as they dash down Commercial Ave. for the parade.
Entertainment
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Standing Stone Scribe
ABC reaches for the ‘Big Sky’
Will ABC’s “Big Sky” bring big ratings? If you have watched the ABC network any at all this fall you have undoubtedly seen the trailers for their new drama Big Sky. Though the trailers didn’t offer much information as to what the show would be about, they were intriguing enough to make me want to tune in. Given its content, I would have thought ABC would have premiered this show in October, around Halloween, but alas it is 2020 so, of course, premiering it the week before Thanksgiving makes perfect sense. I am not sure what I expected from this show. Like I said, the trailers did not give much away about its premise. It is, however, produced by David E. Kelley and if you have watched any television at all the last few decades you are probably familiar with his work. Ryan Phillippe also stars in this show that is part drama and part suspense thriller. I read something that described “Big Sky” as a police procedural, but that is really not an accurate description. Police work is indeed a part of the show’s framework, but only as much as it is on “Criminal Minds,” maybe even less so. Everyone knows “Criminal Minds” is really more about criminal activity and less about those trying to stop it. The same can be said for “Big Sky.” In fact, I found so many similarities between “Big Sky” and “Criminal Minds” that I was surprised to learn that “Big Sky” is based on a book called “The Highway.” “Big Sky” even has a character named Denise Brisbane (Deedee Pfeiffer)
• HOME • Continued from 5A possible at a decent price.” She spent 21 years in law enforcement, working with Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and Livingston City Police Department. Upon opening the café, decided to hang up her duty belt to concentrate on the café full-time. Even with her plate full with IDK Café, she still took on another full-time position working in traffic control. But, when she’s not at the café, she misses it. “When they come in, I want them to say, ‘This is like family.’ I want them to feel like they’re coming home to eat,” said Phillips. “I can sit and talk to somebody about a bowl of soup for an hour. I absolutely love talking with people; catching up with old friends
• MEDICAL • Continued from 1A that the Town of Monterey not charge rent for the first two years. The Health Care Board recommended the Town take advantage of this unique proposal in which the private investor has provided an opportunity for Monterey to recruit a quali-
• BUY • Continued from 1A property, we’re not going to have access to protect that bluff-line.” Reels added that the purchase brings with it the opportunity to build those
Paula Tudor Columnist
who is very much like the character Penelope Garcia on “Criminal Minds,” but I digress. Unlike “Criminal Minds,” “Big Sky” appears to be more serialized than episodic, meaning that the show continues its storylines from one episode to the next. The audience follows the same criminal case in every episode, rather than a different one every week. Given that “Big Sky” is based on a book that makes sense. Since I haven’t read “The Highway,” it would be difficult to say how long the show can sustain itself on the book’s content. But, I imagine if and when “Big Sky” runs out of material more will be created. Though only four episodes of “Big Sky” have aired, I can tell you that it is creepy, violent and bloody, less so than many episodes of “Criminal Minds,” but probably more than what a lot of people are used to seeing on network television. In fact, this show possesses a quality that is usually only seen on web series or on streaming services like Hulu and Netflix. In that way, “Big Sky” is actually fairly groundbreaking and I think we may be seeing a shift in the production of all shows as networks struggle to compete with those major streaming services.
For those of you who haven’t seen the first four episodes of “Big Sky,” it is difficult to talk about without giving away major spoilers, which is probably why the show’s trailers didn’t reveal much. Thus far, the show is about the investigation into the disappearance of several women in Montana. The person or people responsible for their disappearance is revealed early on and will not shock most viewers. The mystery, which is ultimately the main reason to watch, lies in the life and death struggle for these women and everyone who is looking for them. If you have missed any episodes of “Big Sky,” they are available online and on various streaming services like Hulu and Amazon. For Dish Network customers, this may be the only option to see upcoming episodes for a while since Dish is in a dispute with the company that owns ABC. As a result, they have removed ABC, along with other channels, from their customers’ programming until an agreement can be reached. “Big Sky” airs Tuesday nights at 10|9c on ABC. • • • Paula Tudor graduated cum laude from Tennessee Technological University with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies emphasizing English and Communication. She is a freelance writer and a distinguished blogger/online correspondent, with more than three thousand followers on Twitter. The bulk of her work can be found at paulassoapbox.blogspot.com and at paulatudor.com.
and making new acquaintances. I wouldn’t trade that for anything.” She recently challenged Mike Watson of Don’t Matter Café to a friendly cookoff. She hopes the idea will make for a fun competition. “His type of food and my type of food differ from each other, so I just challenged him to a cook-off. Let’s make it all worthwhile and let’s let Monterey be the judge,” she said. She wanted to extend an extra special thank you to her aunt and uncle, JD and Dimple Bilbrey, who have supported her from the beginning in her endeavor to open the café. Phillips said, “IDK is run by friends and family. They’ve been absolutely 100%. My hat’s off to them, especially during the shutdown when we moved
locations. They came in and moved everything for absolutely nothing. It’s friends and family that work together.” She said owning her own café is something she’s always wanted to do. She loves to cook and invite people over. Now she has created a place where she can invite the whole town over for food and fellowship. IDK Café offers dine-in, take-out, curbside and delivery (within two miles of city limits) options to serve her hometown customers. It is located at 124 E. Commercial Ave., Suite A, in Monterey. Business hours are Tuesday and Wednesday 7 a.m.-2 p.m., ThursdaySaturday 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Call (931) 584-0174.
ty medical practitioner with these incentives. The tiered rent proposal would have the new practitioner pay 25% rent on the third year in progression up to the sixth year at 100% rent. The cost to the Town would be about $9,000 for each of the first two years of not charging rent for the building. However, Reels
said with the benefits of updating the building, new equipment and paying the first year’s salary to potentially recruiting a quality practitioner to come to Monterey was well worth that cost. The Board voted to accept the proposal offered by the private investor.
trailheads for the existing hiking trails. “That’s something we need to capitalize on is the hiking we have out there. If we build those trailheads, that will be an incentive for some tourists to come in,”
he said. With the board’s approval to pursue the property purchase, Reels will move forward with negotiations for acquiring the property for Monterey’s Meadow Creek Park.
STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: HAPPY HOLIDAYS ACROSS 1. “Lord of the Flies” shell 6. *New Year’s Eve choice: Brut or Demi-____ 9. Get-out-of-jail money 13. Convex molding 14. *”____ I Want for Christmas...” 15. Sign of life 16. Redo, to a carpenter 17. Flying saucer acronym 18. Often-missed humor 19. *Hanukkah toy 21. *____ Santa, giftgiving tradition 23. Ides mo. 24. Part of a hammer 25. Cook’s leaf 28. “Hey!” 30. Brain’s ____ system 35. Revered one 37. “____ Your Enthusiasm” 39. Capital of Egypt 40. Went by horse 41. “I do” spot 43. *____ Sandler’s “Eight Crazy Nights” 44. Scary movie consequence 46. Dexterity 47. Boundary line
48. Modern self-portrait 50. Superman’s last name 52. Actor’s domain 53. Wild plum 55. Mama sheep 57. *”I’ll be home for Christmas, if only in my ____” 60. *African-American celebration 64. Town news announcer 65. Charged particle 67. Elephant poacher’s ware 68. Give new guns 69. *The night before Christmas 70. Present 71. *Like a Christmas sweater, often 72. Uncooked 73. Adherents of Sikhism DOWN 1. Umbilical connection 2. *”Grandma got run ____ by a reindeer...” 3. *Santa’s “cheeks were like roses, his ____ like a cherry” 4. Request to Geico 5. Carriage on top of elephant 6. Pulitzer winner Bellow 7. *Santa helper 8. Bring to an end 9. Jefferson’s Vice President
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December 2020
10. Medicinal succulent 11. Negative contraction 12. Bovine hangout 15. Alfresco meal 20. Novelist Jong 22. Sushi restaurant choice 24. *Have a piece of Christmas Goose, e.g. 25. *”Five golden rings, four calling ____...” 26. Dig intensely 27. Cry of the Alps 29. *Time for log 31. Address with apostrophe 32. Stays somewhere 33. About to explode 34. *Vixen follower 36. Table extension 38. Diamond’s corner 42. Sign up again 45. Divest one of a gun 49. “Slippery” tree 51. Mark and Shania 54. Twig of a willow tree 56. End of a poem 57. Fortune-teller’s residue 58. Iranian coin 59. Suggestive of the supernatural 60. Was aware of 61. Fall asleep, with ‘out’ 62. Foot part 63. Pirates’ affirmatives 64. French vineyard 66. Female gametes
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Life on the Mountain
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Standing Stone Scribe
December 2020
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Photos by Rebekah Beeler
While Santa manages the kiddies, Mrs. Claus has a special soft spot for puppies, like Gizmo, who have a Christmas list.
As perfect as a Christmas card, Wyatt and Kayleigh Kennedy are loving their visit with Mrs. Claus and Santa as they tell them their Christmas wishes.
He’s making a list...
Mrs. Claus and Santa meet their newest elf recruit Victoria Jenkins at Monterey City Hall on Dec. 5.
Nestled all snug in Santa’s arms, Dezirea Sparks sleeps while visions of sugar plums dance in her head.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Oh, no! The Christmas elf ducks behind Mrs. Claus as Iverson Ernest isn’t pleased with Santa’s answer, “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid.” Emerson Reeder gives a quiet yawn as siblings, Zaylynn and Owen, cozy up with Mrs. Claus and Santa at Monterey City Hall.
...checking it twice