February Scribe 2022 by Standing Stone Scribe

Standing Stone

Volume 8 Issue 2

Scribe Covering Monterey and Surrounding Communities

FREE Take One

February 11, 2022

Board draws new ward boundaries Youth activities a priority for Monterey By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher

Monterey Board of Mayor and Aldermen held a work session on Jan. 27 and special-called meeting on Jan. 31 to discuss election wards and draw the official boundary lines for the Town’s four voting wards to file with the election commission, county and state offices. Putnam County attorney Jeff Jones contacted Town of Monterey attorney Will Mullins with an issue regarding Monterey voting wards. The issue was that there was no record of them. Jones said Monterey needed to establish the boundary lines for the four wards within deadline in order to issue petitions for city elections this year. “We have to have that. It has to come from the aldermen, because it’s in your charter,”

By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher

Photo by Rebekah Beeler/Scribe

The Monterey Board of Mayor and Aldermen hold a special meeting to draw the official voting ward boundaries on Jan. 31. said Putnam County Election Commission director Michele Honeycutt. Moving from paper maps to digital, the election commission found there was no map

on file for Monterey. Honeycutt added upon contacting the county E-911 and state GIS offices, she found they also did not have record of a map with ward boundaries for

Monterey. “These things have to be filed,” she said.

• See WARDS • Continued on 3

Butterfly Kisses Valentine Dance Feb. 12 The community is invited to the Butterfly Kisses Community Valentine Dance on Saturday, Feb. 12, from 6-8 p.m. at Hope in Christ Fellowship Church, 315 E. Peter Ave. Sponsored by Kennedy’s Auto Care, Hope in Christ Fellowship and Town of Monterey, the free community event welcomes fathers and daughters, mothers and sons and everyone to come together and enjoy music, dancing, photo booth and refreshments. Come celebrate love with this sweet community event.

Citizens are stepping up to the plate and business owners are teaming up with them to score more youth activities in Monterey. Recently, Matt Phillips, Mike Phillips, Brooke Phillips, Andrew Miller, and Wayne Brown formed Panthers Youth Basketball League board and organized at Burk’s Elementary for grades 2-3 and 4-6 to play basketball with its season set to begin Feb. 14. Supported by Burks Elementary School Principal Heather Tinch, the league was permitted the use of the school gym for games. With the ball in their court, they set up registration days for Jan. 29 and 31. Being its first year, their goal was to garner just enough interest and sign up team members to have two age divisions, each with four teams at 10 players each. What they didn’t expect was that the turnout was so great they had to create a third division, and still could only accommodate the first 96 registrants. There were a dozen more players who wanted to sign up, but league board member Matt Phillips said the schedule just couldn’t hold any more teams for more games during the week. It’s safe to say that families, especially those with children, are thirsty for organized activities and opportunities. “Our mission statement is that we want to teach, develop and help players improve their basketball skills in a safe and kid friendly environment,” Phillips said. “We love Monterey and we love our kids so it was the perfect

INDEX

1 section, 8 pages News.................. 1, 3 Events............... 2, 7 Community..... 4, 5, 8 Opinion.................. 6 Puzzles.................. 7 Paid for by Cameron Sexton for State Representative, Mark Elmore, Treasurer

combination.” For those involved, it’s a lo of volunteer hours, coordina tion efforts and organization but organizers feel it’s worth it to create those opportuni ties, especially for the com munity’s children. “We did this for ‘all our kids,” Phillips said, giving full credit to the league board members and Tinch for mak ing it possible. “We have an elected board with an amazing group o people that feel the same a I do about our children and basketball,” he continued. Landers Trade Center cam in with the assist, partnering up to help offset some of th cost of jerseys for the basket ball league. Phillips said, “We have big dreams of expanding th league next year.” On the heels of the results o the Monterey activity survey taken last month, Monterey Mayor JJ Reels said, “One o the things we are trying to do in Monterey is to get mor youth activities.” And there are still mor youth opportunities being organized in town. Sign up for Monterey Youth Baseball League Monterey Youth Basebal League is recruiting player for the spring season. Team are for ages 9-10 and 11 12. Though it’s a Monterey league, any child in tha age range is welcomed to sign up and participate from Monterey and surrounding areas. The registration fe is $50, but league Presiden Mark Kennedy and Vice president John Webb said that if a child isn’t able to pay the fee but wants to play

• See YOUTH • Continued on 5

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Our Town Standing Stone Scribe

February 2021

Sandwich Board Meetings may be suspended, canceled or postponed due to COVID-19. Check before you meet.

Monterey Hilltop Chorale rehearsals on Mondays Monterey Hilltop Chorale, an all volunteer choir under the direction of Francis Eldridge, will perform their third season concert at Monterey United Methodist Church at 6 p.m. on May 9. The spring concert will feature sacred gospel selections. The event is free to attend and open to the public. A love offering will be taken at the door to support the Chorale and allow them to continue the arts in Monterey through music. Aside from their gift of free concerts for the community, the Chorale also supports the community by supporting local causes. The Veteran’s Salute Concert held in November supported the JROTC program and the Christmas Concert in December benefitted the Monterey Police Department’s Toys for Children program. The Chorale always welcomes new members and meets at the Monterey UMC at 6 p.m. on Mondays for rehearsal. They are also seeking sponsorships to help with the cost of sheet music, supplies and professional pianist. Sponsorships are yearly and sponsor logos will be featured on the concert programs. For more information about becoming a sponsor, contact Kathy at kradel1010@gmail.com or Joy at cedesigners@outlook.com.

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 sign-in sheet for those who wish to speak and give time for them to bring up important issues for discussion. Monterey VFW meet first Thursdays VFW Post 6277 meeting time has changed. Post meeting will remain on the first Thursday of every month but will now begin at 7 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 Senior Center plans programs Make plans to check out the Monterey Senior Center. • Exercise– Chair exercises Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Standing Stone Scribe

Rebekah Beeler, Publisher Standing Stone Scribe is a monthly Berliner publication covering news and features 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. Advertising: Get the word out about your business, service or organization, increase traffic, expand your customer base, and communicate directly with the community you serve. Let everyone around know your business by advertisting with Standing Stone Scribe. For more information, specs and price sheet, email editorstandingstonescribe@gmail.com or call 931-265-9489.

• Bridge– Monday and Thursday at 1 p.m. • Bingo- Thursday at 10 a.m. • Wednesday Socials: 10:30 a.m. 30-attendee maximum for special guest presentations. Make reservations to attend. • Thursday Extras: 10 a.m. BINGO • 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. The Cottage Thrift Store open The Cottage thrift store at the Monterey United Methodist Church offers new inventory and new pricing. 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 COVID-19 cases, The Cottage will remain closed.

Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV). For more information, contact Jack Looper at 445-2050 or Rooster Barnes at 510-2211. SSHS/Monterey Hometown Project meets The Standing Stone Historical Society/Monterey Hometown Project will resume meetings in January. and meets at 6:15 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month at the Monterey Lions Club. The Society plans the annual Standing Stone Day celebration, a local holiday that is observed annually on the second Saturday in October. Monterey Hometown Project meets directly 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. Email standingstoneday@ gmail.com. 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.

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.

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.

SCV active in community The Champ FergusonStanding Stone Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) Post 2014 Help preserve Southern Heritage and join in the Capt. Champ Ferguson-Standing Stone #2014

Lions Building for event rental 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. Join Monterey Disaster Response Team The Monterey Lions Club Disaster Relief is a nonprofit 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. Check out Monterey Branch Library Monterey Branch Library offers a ton of resources, services and classes. Stop by and check out thier latest additions. Friends of the Monterey Library Book Sale is set for the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Used book donations are accepted during normal library hours. There have been lots of great books donated recently. Please come and support the library and join Friends of the Monterey Library. Help is needed to sort through donations and organize books. Come visit Monterey Branch Library 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. 401 E Commercial Ave, Monterey. 839-2103. Titus House wants to help Need clothes? We can help! Titus House, 306 W. Crawford Ave. 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 Octo ber when it will be open th third Saturday. Titus Hous accepts donations of clean dry clothing in bags or box es. These may be dropped off at Titus House. Pleas put donations underneath the carport at the end of th Titus House driveway. Ti tus House appreciates you donations! Titus House i an outreach program of th Monterey Church of Christ Questions regarding Titu House please call (931 252-7676.

Garden Club meets second Tuesdays The Monterey Garden Club meets the second Tuesday of each month. Come and listen to guest speakers watch demonstrations and get tips for successful gar dening. The clubs is activ in the Monterey commu nity and offer scholarship to Monterey High Schoo graduates. They would lov to have you join them. Fo more information, pleas contact Monterey Garden Club President, Jan Stansel at (214) 208-5243 or emai montereytngardenclub@ yahoo.com. They look for ward to seeing you there!

Monterey Farmers Marke gets ready for new season Let’s make the Monterey Farmers Market the bes around this year! Th Monterey Farmers Marke seeks vendors to sell pro duce, eggs, meats, baked goods, and handmade craft during the 2022 season Sign-ups for vendors to participate at the Monterey Farmers Market this yea are set for Feb. 21 at th Monterey Depot Museum For more information contact Rafferty Cleary Monterey Cultural Admin istrator, at 839-2111.

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Our Town Standing Stone Scribe

February 2021

Monterey Lions receive exceptional service awards

On Jan. 13, Monterey Lions Club awarded Ken Hall, President, the Lion of the Decade Award, Dave Simpson was presented with the Lion of the Year Award and Roy Dishman was awarded the Melvin Jones (Lions Club founder) Award, the highest honor awarded by Lions International. Only five members of the Monterey Lions Club have been presented with this award during its 52 years in Monterey. These Lions truly embody the motto, “We serve,” as they give selflessly of themselves every day. Dishman announced that he would be Photos submitte retiring from the Monterey Lions Club is proud of its members, Roy Dishman, Ken Hall and Dave Simpson, receiving prestigious Lions Club Awards during their Jan. 13 Monterey Lions Club meeting. after 30 years of valued service and memfices. He was also a found- 2008. rect result of the countless Club. I wish Roy the best as God bless you, brother.” bership. Throughout Congratulations to thes ing member of the Disaster Hall said, “The strength hours Roy has volunteered he leaves the club to spend his membership, Dishman Monterey Lions. Team when it formed in of the club today is a diin the name of the Lions more time with his family. has held many Lion of-

• WARDS • Continued from 1 Following this discovery, a map was submitted to the election commission, but it was from 1981. Provided that Monterey had no other property annexed in the last 41 years, that map would have been sufficient. However, there have been properties annexed and de-annexed since. The new boundaries could potentially affect aldermen currently sitting on the board if they are no longer in their perspective ward. “If you have annexed since 1981, you’re going to have to agree on where the lines are for the new districts,” Mullins said, “or, if you don’t -if you use the 1981 map- and we send that to Brandon at 911 then I think he draws us a map. So, there’s a good possibility that some alderman may be outside of their districts…

which would automatically mean that they vacant their seats.” Jones and Honeycutt presented a history of the voting wards went through the charter history, including the original 1901 charter describing Monterey divided into four voting wards. Title 20 of the municipal code adopted in 1996 spoke to annexations and how they are to be added to the map for consideration of potential changes of the voting wards. Honeycutt said, “To the petitions, the aldermen may not know what ward they live in.” Monterey Ward 2 Alderman Jim Whitaker asked, “Well, who initiated this?” Mayor JJ Reels answered, “The election commission.” Honeycutt added, “And we did it, because we no longer have maps that are printed that we used to get from 911.

We have to do all the maps online now.” “We don’t have a list of what the city has annexed,” Jones said. “So, we can’t verify the accuracy of it. That’s what Michele was speaking of. You guys have to verify that this is what you’ve got and what you want.” Alderman Bill Wiggins said there had been two properties annexed in the last 41 years, one of which had been de-annexed, leaving one property not included in the Town’s voting ward map. A special-called meeting was set for Jan. 31 to draw the boundary lines and submit an updated map to the election commission and meet their deadline for the commission to issue petitions for upcoming elections on time. At the special-called meeting on Jan. 31, the board discussed and drew the new voting district boundary lines.

Upon discussing the current understood boundary lines, Reels said, “It really doesn’t change anything.” Whitaker asked, “Then why do it?” “Because we have to set boundaries,” Reels said. “They’re already set,” Whitaker said. “No, that’s the reason we’re doing this, Jim,” Reels said. “They don’t have these set boundaries.” Whitaker asked, “How have they performed elections the last 10 years?” “I don’t know. Ask them,” Reels said. “You ask them. I know you’re the one that went down there and talked to them about it, right?” Whitaker said. “They’re the ones who called me to talk about it,” Reels said “They called you? I’ll check that out,” Whitaker said. “I’ll call Michele. Do you

want to talk to her?” “No,” Whitaker answered. “Jim, I had nothing to do with this,” Reels said. “You accused the other night, ‘Who instigated this?’ the other night, same thing. We’re here to set the boundaries.” The voting ward map was approved unanimously with a motion from Ward 1 Alderman Alex Garcia and seconded by Ward 3 Alderman Nathan Walker. The election commission said that the official lines will have to be verified with the state and that they will review the lines to make sure addresses are in the correct wards for election. In other actions, the board also voted on a contingency motion to secure a bank for the $6 million interim finance loan for a two-year term to pay for the new wastewater treatment facility as USDA grant money comes in.

After discussion and consid eration of bank proposals, th board voted to explore On Bank’s closing costs with contingency not to exceed $1,000 or would otherwis engage First Horizon Bank for the interim funding. The board also voted to re bid the stair project on th Cate-Gil Building to includ powder coating, as well a the Depot repainting and bid out the Depot roofing project The Town of Monterey is stil looking to hire a codes in spector and will re-advertis that position. Tabled during the January meeting, the board briefly re visited discussing ordinanc 21-851, amending an existing ordinance regarding alcoholi beverage sales and consump tion at special events, befor tabling it again until they could hold a meeting to work out the fee schedule and othe permitting details.

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Mountain Times Standing Stone Scribe

February 2021

Get ‘hooked’ with Peter Pan Jr. at CCP Story and pictures by Rebekah Beeler

The Lost Boys are patting themselves on the back after Curly shoots down the Wendybird during rehearsal at the Playhouse getting ready for Peter Pan Jr. opening on Feb. 18

A preview It happens every day. Children grow up. They grow up and leave their daydreams tucked in the dusty corners of their childhood, where those daydreams wait, untouched by imagination, hoping their children will come back to them someday. But, maybe- just maybesomeday is here and it’s time to go back. The perfect escape from adulthood and the very best medicine for growing up too fast, Cumberland County Playhouse will open its 2022 season with Peter Pan Jr. on Feb. 18. Audiences can return to their daydreams by flying to Neverland with CCP’s Peter Pan Jr. And, especially during these trying times, Neverland has never sounded so good. Save for the adult in the director’s chair, DeAnna Helgeson, the action packed, high energy musical is kidsonly, double cast to maximize flying potential with all the good thoughts no matter which show or cast you see. “The story of Peter Pan has always been near and dear to my heart,” Helgeson

said. “Seeing these kids approach this story with such joy, youth, energy, and creativity is really the heart of this story.” Oh the cleverness of Morgan Neal and Kyra Crosby as Peter Pan, who take boy-sterous to the next level! Both Neal and Crosby are multitalented, blessed with strong vocals and athleticism that is put to good use for this musical. Neal is a fun watch as she adapts to her lead role and employs her inner dude to become the head honcho as captain of the Lost Boys. She is exceptional as she sets the tone for the show with her ability to incite energy and action. Crosby no stranger to playing the lead in Playhouse productions and is a big personality in a small package, bringing her big voice and experience to the role. It’s hard not to get hooked on the story line with David Kappel and Robert Walker in the role of Captain Hook, each playing up Hook’s insecurities and confidences and flip-flopping between stark raving archenemy and tantrum throwing toddler in such a way as creates an instantly memorable and absolute favorite character. With Kappel and Walker,

Peter Pan Jr. is an absolute must-see. As Smee, Luke Smith and Brandi Lokey are Hook’s right hand – um, left hand since that is the one the crocodile ate. As Hook’s second, Smith and Lokey lend him a hand (pun intended) to the onstage hilarity. Smith returns to the Playhouse stage as a force of undeniable fun with his unique charisma optimizing the chemistry he has with the other actors. Wendy is played by Cameron Collins and Sarah Norris. The young ladies take to Wendy, like Peter Pan takes to flying, each creating an endearing character so poised and ladylike. Collins and Norris effortlessly soften the foundation of Neverland as the maternal, gentling influence to the Lost Boys. They play it so easily, naturally and lovely it’s like they aren’t even acting. Tigerlily is played by Jesla Uribe and Taylor Dearman. With these two incredible dancers, the Brave Girls are well led. They are a wonder, performing their high-octane numbers full throttle. For this production, creativity and imagination are on the menu as the characters of Tinkerbell, Nana and the crocodile are smart

Come along and dance with “Smee.” The dynamic duo is back with Robert Walker a Captain Hook and Luke Smith as Smee as Peter Pan’s nemesis in the Playhouse produc tion of Peter Pan Jr. props manned by the child actors. Harper Hadden and Elle Lisic flit and flicker on stage with their tiny glowbulb and pack a punch as Tinkerbell. Just using sound effects and their impressive expressiveness, Hadden and Lisic don’t need lines

to get their point across and shine on stage. Nana, the huge dog that is the keeper of the Darling nursery, is played by Mahala Lantry and Finnley Simpson. With an oversized plush puppy strapped to their legs, Lantry and Simpson’s bark is worse

than their bite as the Darling family’s darling nanny. The crocodile prop, manned by Lily Rigney and Kendall Walker, swathes and slithers about, lurking along await-

• See PAN • Continued on 5

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ing its chance to finish his Hook of a meal. As the children turn their props into proper characters on stage, they add so many dynamic layers between the characters, verbal and nonverbal alike. With 48 talented kids in the show, Peter Pan Jr. is the perfect Playhouse show starter this season. Their ability to adapt and improve on a script with quirky ad-libs and witty improve is nothing short of entertainment in its truest form.

• PAN • Continued from 4A

Standing Stone Scribe

February 2021

“There is something very powerful about seeing the way these characters and kids see the world,” Helgeson said. “With a little bravery, friendship, and imagination, we can all tackle anything that comes our way.” And, no matter how grown up you are, when it comes to those precious daydreams, you must never say never - unless, of course, you’re talking about Neverland. Come to the Playhouse, where you never have to grow up and you can rekindle your childlike wonder. Peter Pan Jr. will run Feb. 18 to March 27. But, don’t wait. Tickets are flying out the nursery window. Call the Playhouse box office at 484-5000 or visit ccplayhouse. com to purchase tickets. Below, the Lost Boys band together with the Brave Girls and take Neverland by a storm of childhood antics.

Kyra Crosby flies in the freedom of boyish wonder as Peter Pan.

Mahala Lantry means business as she plays Nana, the Darling family’s K-9 nanny, in Cumberland County Playhouse’s production of Peter Pan Jr.

Do you want a bank with that small town feeling?

MHS to host Saturday A.C.T. Cram Session

On Saturday, Feb. 26, from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monterey High School will host ACT Cram Session for MHS juniors getting ready for their big test. The Cram Session will offer tips, tricks and information to help students do their best. Morning beverages and snack will be provided by Lovely Brew. Lunch will be provided after the session. Attendees will be eligible for door prizes and giveaways at the session. Students can sign up at the MHS front office or with the guidance center to attend.

• YOUTH • Continued from 1 they will come up with the means. Local business owners, like Monterey Shell Station owner Harry McGugin, has already chimed in with their willingness to sponsor a child to get to be a part of the team. “If a kid wants to play, we’ll make sure they can play,” Kennedy said. There are no tryouts required. “We need as many people as we can to sign up so we can keep the league here in Monterey,” Kennedy said. “If we get three teams in each age division, we’ll be able to have our own league here in Monterey.” He added that the league’s goal is to teach baseball fundamentals to prepare them to play on a more advanced level. All regular season games will be held in Monterey. AllStar games will be away. Registration deadline is the end of February, with the next in-person sign up date planned for Saturday, Feb. 26, from 1-3 p.m. at the

Little League Field (next to the basketball courts across from Whittaker Park). Contact Kennedy at 931319-9101 for more information about Monterey Youth Baseball League. It’s not too late to register for T-Ball/Coach’s Pitch For parents of children aged 4-6 and 7-8 as of April 1, it’s not too late to sign up for Monterey Future Wildcats T-Ball/Coach’s Pitch. Inperson sign-ups are set for consecutive Saturdays, Feb. 19 and 26, from 8 a.m.-noon at the James “Coonie” Foster T-Ball field, located at the Save-A-Lot shopping center on Elmore Ave. beside the Monterey Senior Center. Applications will also be available at the Monterey Depot Museum starting Feb. 14. Players must have a copy of their birth certificate to turn in with applications when registering. The cost is still $45. Registration deadline is Feb. 28. Those interested in potentially coaching a Monterey T-Ball/Coach’s Pitch team may indicate that interest on an application and, if additional coaches are needed, the league will reach

out to them. Team sponsorships are $275. More youth opportunities abound For those whose children would rather explore the great outdoors, Tennessee 4-H has collaborated with Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency to offer free youth fishing/hunting licenses for ever¬¬y eligible 4-H’er. Thanks to the TWRA, it is now a reality that every 4-H’er up to 15 years of age can have a free youth fishing/ hunting combination license this spring. This license will be good for a year. The application deadline is May 30. Local 4-H clubs are expected to provide information at their meetings, but potential applicants may also contact their local UT Extension for more information: call 931526-4561 for Putnam County; 931-823-2735 for Overton County; 931-484-6743 for Cumberland County; and 931-836-3348 for White County. “A lot of people appreciate it,” Reels said of the activities being organized. “It’s something that’s been missing.”

Member FDIC

2 offices in Putnam County 2 offices in Fentress County

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Upper Cumberland

HOME & GARDEN SHOW Hyder-Burks Pavilion, Cookeville Friday Saturday 12PM-8PM 9AM-6PM Presented by

Upper Cumberland Home Builders Association

BARN SALE

EXHIBITS

Admission Advance $7 At Door $10

931-528-7472 home@uchba.com uchba.com

COOKING STAGE

The 2022 Upper Cumberland Home & Garden Show features new home and remodeling ideas plus decorating and landscaping trends. From farmhouse to modern, simple repair to major reno, inspirations abound.

SHOPPING

FOOD TRUCKS

Grapevine

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Dave Says Is it a loan, or is it a gift?

Dear Dave, We have $15,000 in credit card debt.My husband works very hard, but only makes about $25,000 a year. We’re also living in a very old trailer right now, and I stay at home with our newborn. My dad told us he is willing to pay offour debtif we agree to get financial counseling together, and show that we are serious aboutdoing better with our finances. What should we do? Harper Dear Harper, I wouldn’t accept the money from your dad if it’s going to be a loan. If you really want to ruin family events, have debt to your parents. It twists you up inside. And it’ll be especially hard on your husband.No matter what anyone else says, the borrower is always slave to the lender. If it’s going to be a gift, meaning there’s no expectation of repayment, that’s a different story. Still, I think your dad has a great idea in making the debt payoff contingent on you two going to some kind of financial counseling, and making a proactive effort to change things, get out of

Dave Ramsey debt and save money—for your child’s future and for yours. I’d probably do the same thing. It doesn’t sound like you’re being crazy with your money, but it’s toughto provide for a family on that kind of income.You and your husband need to sit down together, develop a monthly budget and arealisticfive-yearplan to improve his earning potential. Make it a date night. Hold hands, do something inexpensive you both enjoy, and let him know he can be anything he wants to be. Then, help him decide exactly what and where he wants to be in five years. What does he want to be making, and what feasible steps can he take educationally or in terms of job training to get there? If you want to go to work at some point when your baby is a little older, that’s fine. I completely understand the desire to be at home with a brand new baby. But hard work alone just isn’t enough these days. You’ve got to boost your brain power and value in the marketplace, too.

God bless you guys! — Dave *Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national bestselling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 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.

Be patient, find your path…and forget about student loans Dear Dave, My husband and I are 30, and we are on Baby Step 2. He wants to go back to school and become a social worker. He currently makes about $20,000 a year as a teacher’s assistant, and he wants to take out student loans to do this. He already has an associate’s degree, which wouldn’t mean four years of loans, but the idea scares me a lot. I have a good job, so how can I still support himand his desire to further his educationwithout agreeing to go deeper into debt? Britney Dear Britney, So, it’s kind of a situation where you’re working the Baby Steps and he’s not. On top of this, he wants

February 2021

to go into debt to do social work. Does he know what social workers make these days? This guy obviously has a heart for helping people. That’s a great thing. But I’ve got to believe there are ways to expand his options. Social work is one path, but there are probably several paths he could follow to get involved in what he loves about the idea of social work. I’m guessing he has a passion for counseling and advocating, too. Finishing a four-year degree would put him in a position where he could potentially move into a guidance counselor roleor something along those lines, considering his background. But taking out loans isn’t necessary. Hejust needs to be patient, and wait a little bit while you two buckle down on the Baby Steps and get out of debt. He couldget a second job for a while nights or weekends, and then you’d be able topay off your debt fasterandavoid those stupid loans thanks to the cash you set aside. Plus, there are millions of dollars inscholarships out there for traditional andnon-traditional students. Sometimes when people feel stuck in a job, they automatically default to the idea they need a degree. What your husband really needs right now is a clear idea and direction. Then, you determine if a degree is necessary to get there. Don’t misunderstand me. I’m not against social

work. ButI’ve talked to so many people who went six-figures into debt,only to wind up making $38,000 as a social worker for the state. That’s crazy! You two need to sit down together, and talk all this out. Tell him why you’re worried, and point out that borrowinga bunch of money isn’t the only way—and definitelyisn’t the smart way—to make this happen. If you really want to support him, Britney, you need to help him see there are steps he can take to pursue his dream without it turning into a financial nightmare for both of you. — Dave

not to find a way to win the discussion. Remember: You’re on the same team. 2. Grieve what was. We often think grief is a big event—like the sudden loss of a loved one or job. But grief is so much more than a big event. Grief is the gap between what you expected or hoped would happen and what actually happened. It’s the heartache you feel when you miss how things were. It’s the fear you feel about beginning the next chapter. Some grief is bigger than others. But if you want your relationships to survive the thousands of changes life will throw at you, you must grieve what was—even if the new things aren’t bad. Maybe you loved going to concerts together, but now you’re in bed by nine every night. Maybe you never thought they’d develop a chronic illness, but it happened, and it’s devastating.

Grieving isn’t going to be fun, but it’s necessary to honor what was. You have to choose to set it down so you can pick up what’s next together. 3. Own what happens next. Now that you’ve both said, “Here’s what I miss,” and “Here’s what I thought was going to happen and didn’t,” you get to say, “Here’s what happens next!” You can’t edit the stories of the past, but you can write new ones. Maybe you can’t go to late night concerts anymore, but you love going on hikes with your family. Or no, he can’t help around the house the way he did before the illness, but you’re learning new ways to serve one another.” Whatever it looks like, take heart: This is when you regain your power and your strength. Be patient with one another in this process. No one told

How much dirt, and how much house? Dear Dave, My wife and I own a small catering business. We have a few big corporations as clients, and our company has been very successful over the last two or three years. Now, we are planning to build a house. I was wondering what you think about how much should be spent on the land itself versus the construction of the actual house. Lee Dear Lee, When the whole thing is done, the payment you end up with shouldn’t be more than 25% of your take-home pay on a 15year, fixed-rate loan. The ratio of land to house can vary, and that part’s up to you. If you’re buying a big

piece of land, you’re probably going to have a higher ratio of land cost to home cost than if you bought a simple lot and put a really nice home there. Generally, a standard subdivision lot is going to be around 20% of the total price. If you spend $100,000 on the lot, you’ll end up with a total project cost of about a half-million. Now, keep in mind that’s just a fairly standard ratio. It’s not a rule. The only rule here is my rule about mortgage payments. Again, no more than 25% of your takehome pay on a fixed-rate, 15-year note. Otherwise, you can end up house poor. And when you’re house poor, it takes away your ability to save, build wealth, and give. Having a big house and a lot of land is cool if you can afford it, Lee. But it’s not worth it if it’s financially stressful and prevents you from living your best life! — Dave • • • Dave Ramsey is a seventime #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 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.

Why Strong Relationships Build Something New By Dr. John Delony

On my show, I often take calls from people in sexless marriages, people struggling with attraction after their partner’s weight gain, or people who don’t like who they are in their relationship. I talk to couples who are exhausted, frustrated, bored—and even people who are doing well, but they’re flinching, waiting for the other shoe to drop. You see, most of us were only taught how to fall in love the first time—back when we had six-pack abs and endless energy. But relationships are all about falling in love with each other repeatedly over the course of a lifetime. We don’t know how to stay strong through decades of big transformations and small, daily transitions, which is where things usually start to break down. The key to remaining connected is this: Instead of

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staying stuck in the past, commit together to build something new. Why? Because over time, everything in your relationship will change. Everything. Things won’t feel the way they used to. There’s no such thing as getting back to how things were. And using the past as a barometer for how your relationship should look is going to fail. You must intentionally embrace each new season of life. Think of yourself as an architect, not an archeologist. So, if the key to keeping your relationship strong is to build something new, how does that work? I’m not a fan of three-step plans or life formulas, but in this case, it makes sense. If you want to strengthen your relationship and cocreate a future you love, here are three simple steps to start the process:

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1. Acknowledge what is. You must step out of denial and confront reality. That means being vulnerable and saying things like, “I miss how we used to flirt,” or “I feel like your job has become more important than me.” If the thought of saying those things makes you feel sick, that’s normal. Being vulnerable requires risk, but it’s the only way forward. I have two pieces of advice here. First, don’t try to have this conversation when you’re in a fight or when you’re angry. Confronting reality should never be an attack, and vulnerability should never be weaponized. Second, when someone is being vulnerable, you have to say, “Thank you for sharing.” No rebuttals. No excuses. No sulking. This is the time to listen quietly and let the other person speak—

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Your Good News

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Your Good News

you when you got married that it was the just the first of a hundred phases of building something new. Yes, it’s hard, but every minute of the work it takes to embrace change and build a strong relationship is worth it. • • • Dr. John Delony is a mental health expert with PhDs in Counselor Education & Supervision and Higher Education Administration from Texas Tech University. Prior to joining Ramsey Solutions in 2020, John worked as a senior leader, professor, and researcher at multiple universities. He also spent two decades in crisis response, walking with people through severe trauma. Now as a Ramsey Personality, he teaches on relationships and emotional wellness. Follow John on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube or online at www.johndelony. com.

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Entertainment All ‘Jacked’ up

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By Paula Tudor, Scribe columnist If you grew up with regular television, as in not streaming movies from Netflix and Hulu, it should come as no surprise that this programming format is quickly becoming a less affordable alternative to something like Dish or DirectTV. Streaming services are popping up everywhere though. Long established networks now have subscription services offering additional content to those willing to pay. NBC has even been promoting their streaming service, Peacock, as a place to find additional Olympic coverage. And just last week Amazon announced they would be raising the price of their Prime subscription services from $119 a year to $139. Along with free shipping options, this includes access to Amazon’s catalog of shows and movies, including all of its original programming. Of course, like all streaming services, subscribers will find that certain things they want to watch cost extra. The yearly or monthly subscription

fee just gives you access. I have noticed, however, that Amazon has been offering a lot more in the way of original programming, including blockbuster movies that we would otherwise be watching at the theater. For some, this may be enough to justify paying more, at least for now. Prime is the only streaming service I currently subscribe to, other than occasionally taking advantage of free trials from other services. So, I will be watching it closely for a while to determine the quality of its content, particularly original programs that won’t be available anywhere else. On Friday, Feb. 4, Amazon premiered a new series called “Reacher.” “Reacher,” as you might suspect is based on the popular Jack Reacher novels by Lee Child. Two movies were made several years ago with Tom Cruise as Reacher. They were met with mixed reactions from fans of the novels who believed a taller actor should have been cast in the role.

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In creating a Reacher series, Amazon appears to be trying to fix that apparent casting blunder, by placing actor Alan Ritchson in the role of Reacher, who is noticeably much taller than Cruise. In the interest of full disclosure, I have never read the Reacher novels and only watched one of the movies that featured Cruise. So, my perspective is that of someone who is basically unfamiliar with the Reacher story. I suspect this may be the case for a lot of other people though who will eventually tune in to this new series. The way Amazon has promoted “Reacher,” I expected a lot from this series, particularly since the movies prompted such criticism. As of now I have watched two out of eight episodes in Season 1 and am less than impressed. Like a lot of new series, Reacher has potential, but something is definitely lacking. Ritchson may be taller than Cruise but I am not sure he was the best actor for this role. Quite frankly, I think

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it may have benefited Amazon to rethink the entire cast of Reacher. The only actor that I have seen so far who seems to have any charisma or onscreen presence is Willa Fitzgerald who plays Roscoe. With the “Jack Reacher” movies receiving such criticism over casting choices, I feel like Amazon really dropped the ball in not taking the time to make sure they had the best cast possible for their remake. “Reacher” is not a show everyone will like regardless of casting or whether or not they are fans of the books. The show is action-packed, but it is also graphic and bloody at times, which some viewers may find offensive. Beyond that, I found “Reacher” to be a little hard to follow and slow to get started. Obviously, some of that could be because I haven’t read the novels, but honestly I don’t think anything based on a book should be created with the assumption that everyone has read the book. With that in mind, I will probably finish Season 1, or at least watch a few more episodes. I’m hoping it will get better as it unfolds. If not, I won’t tune

February 2021

in for Season 2, which is already in the works. • • • Paula Tudor graduated cum laude from Tennessee Technological University with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies emphasizing English and Commu-

nication. 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.

3. Iris holder 4. Forest spirit 5. Gingerbread sculpture 6. Kitchen garb 7. *Billie ____ King 8. *Queens neighbor 9. ESPN trophy 10. Denials 11. December 31st, e.g. 13. Lowest points 14. Plural of alga 19. Intestinal obstruction 22. Opposite of their 23. *Prince Charles’ domain 24. Temples’ innermost sanctuaries 25. Not stay in (2 words) 26. Perceive by touch 27. *The NBA’s Kansas City-____ Kings (1972-75) 28. More unfriendly 29. *Late “Live” King of CNN

32. Russia’s mountain range 33. Seek a seat 36. *The last “king” of Russia 38. Proprietor 40. *The ___ Queen, regal chess character in “Through the Looking Glass” 41. Public disapproval 44. Cozy and comfortable 46. Two of these do not make a right 48. Near the wind 49. Potato soup partner, pl. 50. “She ____ a Yellow Ribbon” 51. Add to payroll 52. Native of Thailand 53. Lash mark 54. Member of National Socialist German Workers’ Party 55. Giant pot 58. “Shiny Happy People” band

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Kings and Queens ACROSS 1. Outback birds 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca 8. Well, to Sofia Loren 12. Impose a tax 13. No way! 14. Malicious burning 15. ____ over 16. Radiant light 17. Ran easily 18. *”The King of Staten Island” star Pete 20. Goyim, alt. sp. 21. Mork from Ork, e.g. 22. Common furniture wood 23. “Der Ring des Nibelungen” composer 26. Petroleum product (2 words) 30. Shakespearean fuss 31. Loan shark 34. Village People hit 35. City in France 37. Street, in Paris 38. Show in progress (2 words) 39. Tiny purse 40. Was almost out of gas, e.g. (2 words) 42. *First H in HRH 43. Type of bag 45. Unguarded 47. Brick and mortar carrier 48. Resize a dress, e.g. 50. “For ____ the Bell Tolls” 52. *Netflix royal drama (2 words) 55. Bridal veil fabric 56. One who hoes 57. Not far 59. Orderly arrangement 60. Drunkard, slangily 61. Stare 62. Country club pegs 63. Drivers’ licenses, e.g. 64. *2019 movie “Queen & ____” DOWN 1. Not Moose or Shriner 2. Fitting reward

Life on the Mountain

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Monterey High School & Burks Elementary came together to provide students a Royal Tea Party that brought CKLA to life! Kings and queens were all represented along with princesses and a special prince! .

February 2021