Scribe November 2021

Standing Stone

Volume 7 Issue 11

Scribe Covering Monterey and Surrounding Communities

Averitt celebrates 50th with $5K donations

By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher

Averitt Express celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. As part of the celebration, the freight transportation company donated $5,000 to Monterey High School on Oct. 26.

A Monterey High School Facebook post read, “Today has been a very special day here at MHS ... We cannot express the sincere gratitude we have for the Averitt family and we are extremely excited at the opportunity they have given us. From our family to yours, thank you again!”

Averitt recently made contributions to all the high schools in both Putnam and Overton Counties. “We’re proud of our original roots in Overton County, and we’re proud to have been based in Putnam County for 40 years now. Our local communities have been so good to us through the years. We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our 50th anniversary and show appreciation to those communities than to invest in our local schools,” said Wayne Spain, Averitt Presi-

FREE Take One

November 5, 2021

Salute the veterans

Monterey Hilltop Chorale Concert set for Nov. 8

By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher

Photo submitted

Averitt Express representatives Sammy Talent, Service Center Director, and Transportation Specialist Joe Wall present a $5,000 check to Monterey High School on Oct. 26, received by principal Sonja Farley, vice-principal Chris “Mutt” Buckner and viceprincipal Ben Novak. dent and Chief Operating Officer.

Established in 1971, Averitt Express began in Overton County with just three

tractors and two associates hauling dry goods between Nashville and Livingston.

After 10 years, Averitt Express moved their operation

to Putnam County, and has grown to be a leading provider of freight transportation and supply chain management in the industry.

Monterey Seniors to honor Veterans Nov. 11

The Monterey Senior Citizen Center invites veterans from all branches of service, in Monterey and surrounding communities, to join them in a Veterans Day Celebration at the senior center at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 10.

November is a month to especially give thanks.

Monterey Hilltop Chorale will be giving thanks to our nation’s heroes with a patriotic Salute to Veterans Concert. Join Monterey Hilltop Chorale in honoring our United States military veterans on Monday, Nov. 8, at Monterey United Methodist Church sanctuary, beginning at 7 p.m.

Donations and offerings will be collected at the door to support the local Junior ROTC program.

Monterey Hilltop Chorale is a community choir founded and directed by Francis Eldridge in 2014. In this the season of giving, as an offering of the fine music arts to the community, Monterey Hilltop Chorale concerts are free and open to the public.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for supporters of the arts to help fund concerts in the Monterey community. Funds raised through sponsorships will go toward the purchase of music materials and concert costs.

The generous sponsors of Monterey Hilltop Chorale will have their ads featured in the concert programs according to their sponsorship for attendees to recognize supporters of the arts in the area.

Sponsors may choose to sponsor individual concerts or to be a yearly sponsor. The giving tiers for The Hilltop Chorale sponsors for single concerts are: Platinum Sponsor $150, Gold Sponsor $125, Silver Sponsors $100, Bronze Sponsors $75, and Loyal Patron Sponsors $50.

The giving tiers for The Hilltop Chorale yearly sponsors are: Platinum Sponsor $400/year, Gold Sponsor $300/year, Silver Sponsor $250/year, Bronze Sponsor $200/year, and Loyal Patron Sponsor $100/year.

And don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Christmas concert at 7 p.m. at Monterey UMC set for Monday, Dec. 13.

• See CONCERT • Continued on 3

Monterey votes board approvals on mayor council appointments

By Rebekah Beeler

Scribe publisher

The Town of Monterey Mayor and Board of Alderman met in regular session on Nov. 1, and voted to accept the first and second reading of an ordinance amending Title 1, Chapter 2 of the city’s charter that “the Mayor has the authority to employ council with the approval of the Board of Mayor and Alderman.”

“Basically, that’s the only change is that it has to be approved by the Board,” Mayor JJ Reels said.

A motion to accept the amended ordinance was made by Ward 4 Alderman Charles “Pokey” Looper, supported by Ward 2 Alderman Jim Whitaker. In discussion, Whitaker referred to some Board members taking issue with Mayor Reels after he appointed a city attorney, and subsequent infighting that occurred

as those board members disagreed that the Mayor’s office had the authority to do so.

Whitaker said, “The reason for this ordinance, in my opinion, is we had so much problems with hiring of a lawyer and it just wasn’t clear in the code the exactly the procedures and it just created some confusion.”

“Right, and I agree, because you read the code and it’s four or five different [definitions],” Reels said.

Ward 2 Alderman Mark Farley said, “Let’s talk about this a minute. So, the Board has to vote on your lawyer when you bring him up, right?”

Reels answered, “From this point forward.”

“I think this cleans it up,” Whitaker said. “I think that would clean that situation up for future boards.”

The Board was also addressed by Kwill Consultants grant

writer Dawn Kupferer, Upper Cumberland Development District Transportation Planner and Center Hill RPO Coordinator Silas Stoddart and consulting engineer Nathanial Green, discussing the many upcoming grant opportunities from many agencies, potential projects and application deadlines, to which the board voted to submit applications.

“An application is not a commitment,” said Kupferer. She added that Monterey could submit applications and begin the process and then, if awarded, could decide to accept or not.

“I’m for moving forward,” said Ward 1 Alderwoman Amy Martin, who made several motions to submit applications for grant funding from the different agencies in hopes that

• See BOARD • Continued on 3

INDEX

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

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Our Town

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Standing Stone Scribe

November 2021

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

Monterey Hilltop Chorale seeks sponsors The Monterey Hilltop Chorale has resumed rehearsals on Monday nights from 6-7 p.m. at Monterey United Methodist Church. Anyone with a passion for singing may join. The Chorale is always looking for new members! Monterey Hilltop Chorale will be featured in two free concerts this year, a concert to honor our veterans as well as a Christmas concert and seeks the sponsorships to be able to bring these concerts to the community for free. Support the arts in Monterey by supporting the Hilltop Chorale. Sponsors may become a yearly sponsor or choose to sponsor one concert and will be recognized in the concert programs. For more information, email 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 at-

tend. 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 The Monterey Senior Center has announced it intends to reopen in May. 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.

• 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. June 11 and June 25 If schools are closed due to inclement weather, the Monterey Senior Center will also be closed.The Center is located at 105 N. Elmore,

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.

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Monterey, TN. Contact the Senior Center by calling 8398053. 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.

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.

Farmers Market open Monterey Farmers Market is open. Vender permits are available at the Monterey Historic Depot. Call 8392111 for more information.

Monterey Farmers Market is also 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

Monterey Branch Library open Saturdays Monterey Branch Library is now open on Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Stop by and check out our latest reading materials.

On your visit, 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.

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 House is open

the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon, except for October when it will be 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.

Stay active at Meadow Creek Park Stay active at Meadow Creek Park. The park is located at four miles east of Monterey along Hwy. 64 at 19195 Clarkrange Hwy. 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 gardening.

The clubs is active in the Monterey community and offer scholarships to Monterey High School graduates. They would love to have you join them. For more information, please contact Monterey Garden Club President, Jan Stansell at (214) 208-5243 or email montereytngardenclub@yahoo.com. They look forward to seeing you there!

Monterey Lions Club to hold Turkey Shoots It’s that time of year and the Monterey Lions Club is hosting its annual Turkey Shoots on Saturdays throughout the winter.

Come join the Monterey Lions Club for a good time and win nice cuts of meat and cash prizes. Shoots are lo• SANDWICH BOARD•

Continued on 3

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November 2021

SSHS presents checks to MHS cheer, volleyball Photos by Rebekah Beeler/Scribe

Standing Stone Historical Society treasurer Joy Callahan presents Monterey High School Athletic Director and Vice-principal Christ “Mutt” Buckner on behalf of MHS Volleyball, and MHS Cheerleading Coach Christina Uribe with checks to support their sport programs from the 2021 Standing Stone Pageant fundraiser. Every year, SSHS chooses a program to benefit with pageant proceeds in an effort to support students and give back to the community.

• BOARD • Continued from 1 Monterey would be awarded to potentially expand Monterey’s water and sewer infrastructure, as well as pursue many much needed projects, such as flooding mitigation, sidewalks and continue to improve the connectivity of the Town.

In committee reports, Martin gave a brief summary of the work session the Building and Grounds Committee had with Monterey city attorney Danny Rader regarding the status of Bee Rock following the summary judgment handed down by Judge Jonathan Young last year.

After the summary judgment was handed down, Garden Inn owners, Michael and Mirtha Kopec, appealed it.

While Martin could not give details of the work session itself, she gave board members copies of the summary judgment final order and said, “We’re going to abide by the ruling by Judge Young, regarding the property.”

The Board voted to accept the first and second readings of an ordinance to enact chapter 8 regulations of mobile food vendors. Another ordinance was brought before the Board to consider on the topic of adult beverage sales

during special events. Ward 3 Alderman Nathan Walker discussed that special event times were not in the ordinance and Martin motioned to table voting on the ordinance until the Board could consider it properly, supported by Whitaker. After a brief discussion, the motion carried to table the ordinance until the next meeting. The first and second reading of an ordinance to specify the number of parking spaces for residential dwellings in commercial-zoned areas was also considered.

“This came straight from the planning commission,” said Mayor Reels.

Martin and Ward 2 Alderman Mark Farley wanted to look at the old ordinance before deciding and a motion to table consideration of the ordinance to next month carried.

The board approved to front about $21,000 to restore the traffic light at Stratton Ave. and Holly St. intersection to be reimbursed by the insurance policy, instead of waiting for the insurance to cover it, to lessen the amount of potentially dangerous driving issues by motorists at that location.

In other actions, the Board voted to advertise bids for awnings, porch, paint and roofing work needed at the Cate-Gil Medical Building

and the Monterey Historic Depot Museum, declared two vehicles at the Monterey Police Department as surplus and approved $500 donation requested by Looper on behalf of the Monterey Civitan Club toward the Christmas Parade.

A work session will be scheduled for the Finance Committee to consider premium or hazard pay for all city employees. A public meeting will be held for the Meadow Creek Park Master Plan at 6 p.m. at city hall on Nov. 22.

Cultural Administrator Rafferty Cleary praised Monterey Police Department and Chief Bill Randolph and Monterey Fire Chief Kevin Peters for the phenomenal job they did handling security, offering assistance, management and staying to clean up at the Mountain Rhythms Craig Morgan Concert on Oct. 29, which brought thousands of spectators to the stage on Commercial Ave. “I wanted to give credit where credit was due,” he said.

He also announced that Monterey’s new tourism website launched and encouraged everyone to visit it at exploremontereytn.com.

Aldermen Alex Garcia and James “Coonie” Foster were not present.

• CONCERT • Continued from 1 Donations and offerings will be collected at the door to benefit Monterey Police Department’s Toys for Children program for Christmas.

There will also be a sacred gospel concert next spring, date to be announced.

The Chorale usually holds three concerts per season, at the Monterey UMC at 7 p.m. and hopes to be able to organize more musical arts

events to offer the community in the future.

Those interested in becoming a Monterey Hilltop Chorale member may attend practices held every Monday night at Monterey UMC, 124 N. Holly St., from 6-7 p.m.

Sandwich Board cated on Hwy. 70, after passing Bee Rock Rd. towards Cookeville.

Turkey shoots are held from 10 a.m. to noon and the dates set for the next shoots are Nov. 13, Nov. 27, and Dec. 11. January and February Turkey Shoot dates will be announced. One shot is $5 or 5 for $20. Money raised by the shoots will go toward the club’s many service projects, including free eye exams for students. For more information, contact Lion Roy Dishman at 931-267-2647 or Mike Callahan at 931-839-2350.

Depot to host Gendusa for book signing Nov. 6 The Monterey Historic Depot Museum is excited about copies of Lyan Walker Gendusa’s new book, Southern Comfort, and will have them available at the Depot for a book signing on Saturday, Nov. 6, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m with the author, renowned

storyteller and newspaper columnist herself. Southern Comfort offers short, uplifting life stories along with pearls of wisdom. She also wrote “It’s All Write With Me! Essays from My Heart.”

Her books will be available for sale at the Depot for the event.

Master Gardeners to sell bird seed wreaths, logs The Cumberland County Master Gardeners are busy making bird seed wreaths to raise funds to benefit UT Gardens, Crossville: Plateau Discovery Gardens.

Packaged in a gift bag ready for giving, the wreaths are a wonderful treat for yourself, as gifts for others, and, of course, the birds!

The 1 ½ pound Premium Bird Seed Wreath is $15, the Birdy Bark Butter Log and 10 ounce butter is $10, and the 1 pound Birdy Bark Butter for Log/tray feedings is $5.

Birdseed wreath storage and

shipping instructions included with each gift bag. Gift boxes are also available for $2 for those who’d like additional packaging.

Each is sold by advance order by contacting 931-4840034 or jburns35@utk.edu.

Pick-ups begin Nov. 1.

Please provide the date you will need item(s) when you place your order; and allow up to 5-7 business days for wreaths and 2-3 days for the logs.

Orders may be picked up in UT Gardens office on Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

UT Gardens: Crossville, The Plateau Discovery Gardens is located at 320 Experiment Station Rd. in Crossville.

Monterey Christmas Parade Dec. 6 The Monterey Civitan Club will be organizing the Christmas Parade this year. For more information, call the Depot at 839-2111.

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Mountain Times

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SSHS presents

Standing Stone Scribe

November 2021

42nd annual Standing Stone Day celebration a success Photos by Rebecca Walker

Below, the Native presenters invite a willing audience, and community members join in for the “Round Dance.”

The laying of the wreath and tomahawk on the base of the Standing Stone Monument, pictured at left, is a ceremonial tradition on Standing Stone Day.

After the ceremony and laying the wreath and tomahawk at the base of the Standing Stone Monument, representatives from several Native Nations offered presentations of cultural dance and music, above and left.

Entertainment

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Standing Stone Scribe

November 2021

Humbug: CCP’s ‘Scrooge’ is a masterpiece A Review Photos and story by Rebekah Beeler/Scribe You all know the story, but you’ve never seen it like this before.

Cumberland County Playhouse presents “Scrooge: The Musical” on the Mainstage, opening on Friday, Nov. 5.

Written by Leslie Bricusse, “Scrooge: The Musical” is based on Charles Dickens’ renowned classic, A Christmas Carol, and was developed it into a musical for the stage and screen alike.

It was a novel idea (pun intended) for sure on Bricusse’s part, but the extravagant lengths- not to mention, the heights- CCP has gone through to produce the show has created a live theater masterpiece that is as beautiful to watch as it is to hear. Naturally, but not surprisingly, The Playhouse pulls out all the stops for an absolutely epic production and is a credit to Bricusse’s work.

The musical opens on Christmas Eve in 1860’s in Cheapside, London. The story follows the redemption of Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Jason Ross. Many adjectives of the negative variety come to mind when describing Scrooge, who is both the antagonist and protagonist in this story. Case and point, and as simply put as possible, Scrooge is a selfish, crotchety, old, soulless, grubby money-lending miser. Scrooge loves to keep people owing, and the power it gives him over his borrowers, almost as much as he loves money itself.

But with Ross in the role, he’s also bigger than life and can fill all the space on the stage on his own. Ross brings Scrooge’s character into a new era, where audience members laud his hateful humor. As Scrooge, Ross is the most endearing miser the audience has ever met or felt guilty about loving.

Scrooge’s clerk, Bob Cratchit (Justin Burr), is a kind and gentle married father of five who holds no contempt for his task master of an employer. Bob’s youngest, Tiny Tim (Evan Lisic, Harper Hadden), is ill, but the tight-knit family - Mrs. Cratchit (Weslie Webster), Peter (David Kappel, Luke Smith), Martha (Zolah Beeler, Kyra Crosby), Kathy (Sarah Norris, Mahala Lantry) and Belinda (Kylan Ritchie, Morgan Neal)- is thankful for what they have and keep their hopes warm by being together.

As the townsfolk are abuzz with the cheer of Christmas festivities, Scrooge is miffed at all the merrymaking. At home, alone, on Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his dead business partner, Jacob Marley (Daniel Black) to warn him that if he didn’t change his fate would be realized in chains. To say the least, Black is a sight, commanding the stage with a force that does not go unnoticed.

As Jacob, he foretells that three spirits, the Ghost of Christmas Past (Lauren Marshall), the Ghost of Christmas Present (Britt Hancock), and Ghost of Christmas Yet-to-Come (Jacob Alexander), would pay Scrooge a visit and to take the lessons they taught lest his soul be doomed.

As the Ghost of Christmas Past, Marshall is a posh, welldressed lady who takes Scrooge through his deep imbedded heartache with her angelic voice to scenes of his past to remind him of a time when he knew what really mattered in life and when his priorities changed for the worse. The Ghost of Christmas Past breaks Scrooge’s heart in preparation for his next visitor the Ghost of Christmas Present.

Hancock is unmistakably majestic with his robe and crown on the throne as the Ghost of Christmas Present. His impressive hearty laugh rings truth throughout the theater with such ethereal notes that you almost believe he is a spirit descended.

The jollier of the visiting spirits, he takes Scrooge to see how humbly the Cratchits live and Scrooge sees that despite their

• See SCROOGE • Continued on 8

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Work Together, and Be Intentional Dear Dave, My husband is a union member andworks at a paint factory near our home.

His union’scurrent contract will expire in nine months.

We have about $27,000 of debt left to pay off, and he makes a little over $80,000 a year.I’m nervous because his slow season is coming up between now and then. During this time, he usually gets about half the hours—and,of course,less money—than he does during the rest of the year. I’m a little scared, even though there hasn’t been a strike in the last six years. Do you think we should go ahead and pay off our remaining debt or hold onto every penny in case they walk out?

—Cheyanne Dear Cheyanne, I’m going to tell you something that might just blow your mind: You two can pay off the debt andhave some money set aside to liveon in that length of time. If you do that, you’ll actually be more ready for a strike than ever before. You’ll both have to be on the same page financially and do things with a sense of urgency, but right now, I don’t think you’ve got too much to worry about.

The likelihood of them going on strike ispretty low.

Chances are, they’re just rattling their sabers and talking big to posture for the negotiations. Most factories are behind right now, and the last thing they want is to get even further behind.Every-

Grapevine

Dave Ramsey thing has been so screwed up

by COVID-19 thatunless the union demandssome completely ridiculous stuff, things will probably work out fine.

I think you guys are goingto be fine, Cheyanne.

Should you be intentional and thoughtful about the situation? Absolutely.It’s always wise to look ahead and plan for the future. Getting that debt paid off and saving up a bunch of cash will give you real peace of mind.

—Dave Address the deeper issues Dear Dave, My boyfriend is not very good with money, and he is in a bad situation right now. He has a huge car payment every month, plus about $30,000 in credit card debt. He also lives in a very expensive apartment. He recently quit a really good job because he doesn’t like his boss anymore.He has talked about filing bankruptcy, and yesterday he asked if he could move in with me. I love him, but I’malso scared.

I try to manage my money well by saving, investing for retirement and staying out of debt. What does this mean for our future together?

Crislyn Dear Crislyn, My guess is the guy’snot really bankrupt, but it sounds like he has somematurity and

The inkling...

Have a sweater weather adventure Rebekah Beeler Explore your favorite state park this fall and enjoy beautiful Middle Tennessee as you bask in the incredible autumnal scenery of area Tennessee State Parks this fall. State parks are hosting a myriad of events in November for everyone to stay active, learn history,

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take on new skills and try a sweater-weather adventure.

At Cummins Falls State Park, learn old fashioned candlestick making. On Sunday, Nov. 7, join Ranger Lauren from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. for a relaxing evening of old fashioned candle

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Five tips for dealing with toxic stress

character issues that need to be addressed. I’m not saying things can’t change, but this is not someone to move in with or consider marrying anytime soon. You two would have a hard time as husband and wifeunless he makessome real course corrections in his attitudes about money and life.

For starters, he needs to get another job, sell the expensive car and find a cheaper place to live. Leaving one position for another is okay, but deciding you just don’t like something and walking away from it without another job waiting—especially when you’ve got bills and a bunch of debt—is just plain irresponsible.

Lots of people identify too strongly with what they driveor where they live. They come to believe thosethings are indications of their value or worth, and that’s sad.It means something inside them is broken, andbankruptcy isn’t going to fix that.

All this doesn’t mean he isn’t basically a decent guy, but it does mean he needs to get control of his finances— and thathe’s got some soul searching and growing up to do.

—Dave • • • Dave Ramsey is a seventime No. 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,”“Fox News,”“CNN,”“Fox Business” and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people take control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

National Stress Awareness Day was on Nov. 3, and I don’t know a single person who hasn’t been deeply stressed over the past few years. Maybe as you’re reading this, you’re on coffee number four or still trying to process the latest scary economic news headline.

But what if I told you stress itself is actually not the problem?

That’s right. Stress is good for us. Feeling stressed during performances or work events shows that your body and brain are working. They’re taking care of you and making sure you’re prepared to achieve your goals. It’s normal and good to be stressed when you’re taking tests or giving a presentation because when you get stressed, your body kicks into “fight, flight or freeze” mode, and you go about solving (confronting or avoiding) the challenge.

But your body can’t handle being in fight, flight or freeze all day every day. If stress is pervasive (you’re stressed about multiple things) and persistent (you’ve been stressed for a long time), your stress may become toxic. So today, I want to help you identify and work through toxic stress.

What is toxic stress?

Toxic stress is the result of having too much going on at once and being in fight, flight or freeze mode for so long that our bodies finally say, “Enough!”

We know we’re dealing with toxic stress when we start feeling like everything’s pointless. We start

isolating ourselves or choosing addictive actions like drinking, doing drugs or inhaling every gummy worm, burger and bag of chips we can get our hands on (been there). Toxic stress can result in numerous physical and psychological issues like high blood pressure, heart problems, inability to focus, anxiety, depression and a whole lot more.

But there is a healthy way to deal with stress and pursue wellness no matter how many stressors you have — so here are my top five tips.

How to deal with toxic stress Before you reach for the carbs and try to numb out your feelings with 10 hours of “Law and Order” or endless internet scrolling, do one or all of these five things: 1. Write down what’s stressing you out Sometimes getting it all out of your head and onto paper can make a world of difference, so go ahead and make a list of everything that’s contributing to your feelings of stress. Once you see it all laid out, you’ll be able to make informed choices about what you can deal with today, what doesn’t need to be addressed today, and what’s out of your con-

stick making around the campfire. The Dutch ovenstyle cobbler will be prepared by Seasonal Jordan.

Cost is $5.

Another class set for Saturday, Nov. 20, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. will teach participants how make a scented tapered candle that’s perfect for the holidays! Meet at the Cummins Falls Visitor Center. The cost of the class is $3.

At Edgar Evins State Park, sign up for the Fall Color and Waterfowl Cruise on Nov. 9-10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Meet at Edgar Evins Marina. Come out and enjoy a three to four hour pontoon boat cruise to witness the fall colors along the shores of Center Hill Lake. There

may also be an opportunity to see migrating waterfowl on the cruise. Be sure to prepare for the weather and layer as needed. Don’t forget to bring your camera and a pair of binoculars. You may also want to bring snacks and water as well. Limit 12 people. Cost is $20 per person. No children under the age of 4 allowed. Meet at Edgar Evins Marina 15 minutes prior to departure time. The park will cancel in the case of inclement weather.

At Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park on Veterans Day, Nov. 11-14, the park will host “Into the Fray: Veterans Day Weekend,” and highlight the history of World War I through liv-

ing history demonstrations and programs. The event will focus specifically on the American experience in the war as doughboys, like Alvin York, found themselves thrust into the conflict in Europe. Look for WWI era biplanes, artillery, trench warfare tactics, Red Cross history and much more as the park comes alive in 1918, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance. Masks are recommended and social distancing will be required. Call the park office (931) 8796456 for more information.

Santa is coming to Cedars of Lebanon State Park’s Sadie Ford Farm on Nov. 13. Bring the whole family to Sadie Ford Farm from

Standing Stone Scribe

November 2021

Your Good News

Dr. John Delony

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Your Good News

trol.

2. Learn to control your thoughts and actions The only things you truly have control over are your own thoughts and actions — and yes, you can learn to control your thoughts.

Thoughts will automatically come into your mind (you can’t control that), but you can control what you do with them once they’re in there. My favorite strategy when I’m hit with a thought I don’t like is to loudly say, “Nope,” and then intentionally think of something better. It’s awkward and a discipline that takes time to learn, but it is possible.

And since you can control your actions, you can also choose what you do and what you focus on. You can stop reading the news and start a gratitude journal instead. You can choose to go for a walk outside instead of listening to so many true crime podcasts that you start thinking everyone you know is a serial killer.

3. Take care of your health Mental, physical and spiritual health are all interwoven and connected, so when you do something that’s good for your body, you’ll also help your mind and soul, and vice versa. A few simple ways to take care of your health are eating well, exercising (just move your body—it doesn’t have to be CrossFit), journaling, spending time in meditation and prayer, and getting plenty of sleep.

4. Invest in relationships We all need to have other

• See STRESS • Continued on 7

10 a.m.-3 p.m. and make a memory and visit with Santa. There is no cost, but donations to the park are welcome.

Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park will be hosting a basket making class for participants to make a shopping tote on Nov. 13. Meet in the park office at 9 a.m. to express yourself in your very own woven tote!

The cost for materials and class is $35. With a woven closed-bottom base, this shaker tape handled tote is perfect for grocery shopping or on-the-go living.

Because the handles are

• See PARKS • Continued on 7

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Our Town

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7

November 2021

Need information?

Check out Monterey’s official website at townofmontereytn.com!

• STRESS • Continued from 6 people in our lives. Stress can make us want to isolate ourselves and tune out the world, but relationships and community are absolutely essential to us as human beings.

You’ve heard of an emergency fund for your finances — well, people are an emergency fund for life.

Find ways to actively connect with people, whether that’s having dinner with a friend, visiting your family, or joining a club or group

• PARKS • Continued from 6 one continuous strap woven through the bottom, it is capable of transporting heavy loads. The finished size is 8x14x11 inches.

The instructor, Barbara, is a recently retired Overton County School teacher who has been weaving baskets for over 40 years.

The park is also hosting an advance needle felting class at 1 p.m. on Nov. 20, to create 3-dimensional Christmas ornaments out of wool. The ancient art of felting compacts animal fibers (wool) into a non-woven fabric or shape. By using a barbed felting needle, one can control how fibers are put together. Join Sue Duncan for a free-form needle felting class in which participants will learn to construct a Christmas Ornament out of wool fibers. Cost is $20.

Duncan is a retired park ranger from Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. She has over 30 years in historical interpretation and education.

Both of these classes are supported by a grant from Tennessee Arts Commission.

Rock Island State Park will be hosting pontoon

with people who share your interests. I get that relationships aren’t always easy, but they’re worth your time—I promise.

5. Seek professional help If you’re struggling to identify what’s making you feel stressed, or you’re experiencing addiction, out-of-control thoughts or toxic relationship patterns, find someone to talk to. A professional can help you figure out the why behind your feelings and unpack any trauma you may or may not know you have.

At the end of the day,

know that you’re not crazy, damaged or alone. In most cases, you are normal, and there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. So put in the work it takes to be well.

You’re 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.

tours of Great Falls Lake, beginning at King’s Landing Boat ramp and motoring up to Rock Island on Nov. 6, Nov. 14, Nov. 18, Nov. 20, and Nov. 24. Meet at King’s Landing Boat Ramp.

The cost is $10. Participants will enjoy the beauty of fall, viewing wildlife and learning some history of the area. Bring an extra jacket incase it gets chilly!

Sign-ups will be in the Visitor Center or online.

The meeting place for all floats will be King’s Landing Boat Ramp. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Life jackets will be required on all floats. They have life jackets available, but participants may bring their own.

For times and any questions, call 931-837-4770.

On Nov. 26, there are so many choices of Tennessee State Parks who are hosting post-Thanksgiving hikes to walk off the turkey wobbles, including Cumberland Mountain State Park, Big Hill Pond State Park, Big Ridge State Park, Bledsoe Creek State Park, Booker T. Washington State Park, Chickasaw State Park, Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park, Cove Lake State Park, Cummins Falls State Park, Dunbar Cave State Park, Fall Creek Falls State

Park, Rugby State Natural Area, Frozen Head State Park, Fort Pillow State Historic Park, Harpeth River State Park, Henry Horton State Park, Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park, Indian Mountain State Park, Johnsonville State Historic Park, Montgomery Bell State Park, Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park, Norris Dam State Park, Old Stone Fort, Pickett CCC Memorial State Park, Pickwick Landing State Park, Pinson Mounds, Port Royal State Historic Park, Red Clay State Historic Park, Reelfoot Lake State Park, Rocky Fork State Park, Seven Islands State Birding Park, South Cumberland State Park, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, Warriors Path State Park.

With so many parks participating, no matter where you are visiting in Tennessee for Thanksgiving, you can find a state park near you to enjoy a day-after Thanksgiving hike.

Come and play at Tennessee State Parks. View events, register and pay online at tnstateparks.com.

For free events, please consider making a donation to the park to support it and the many programs offered.

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.

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: THANKSGIVING ACROSS 1. “If all ____ fails...”

5. *Male Thanksgiving bird 8. Yoko’s last name 11. Indian restaurant bread 12. Carhop’s carrier 13. *”Kiss the Cook” garment 15. Homer’s “The Odyssey”, e.g.

16. *Grandpa or Grandma, often 17. Moolah or dough 18. *Pilgrim’s colony 20. Allah’s cleric 21. Arranges into categories 22. Chance’s genre 23. *”Plains, Trains and Automobiles” star 26. Woven containers 30. Kimono sash 31. Aristotle’s school 34. Part of ideal 35. Hurricane feature, pl.

37. Comedian Schumer 38. Teen worry 39. Side of a ruler 40. Left over 42. *When will the guests be here?, acr.

43. Rejuvenate 45. Expression of agreement (2 words) 47. *What Turkey Trot participants did 48. Outdoor entertainment area 50. Messy substances 52. *It makes Thanksgiving wishes come true?

55. Half of diameter, pl.

56. Flu symptom 57. Accompanies relief 59. Leaves out 60. More than a talker?

61. Isaac’s firstborn 62. Skin cyst 63. “____ my party, and I’ll cry if I want too...”

64. Confederate or Union, e.g.

DOWN 1. Compass dir.

2. Arctic native 3. Go yachting 4. Become enclosed in a cyst 5. Freshwater fish 6. Hop-drying kilns 7. *Pumpkin pie at the first Thanksgiving, e.g.

8. Sea World’s performer 9. “Cheers” regular 10. Top seed 12. Like a rosebush 13. Spy name 14. *Kind of squash 19. Toils 22. Truck brand motto: “Guts.

Glory. ____” 23. Lawn trimmer 24. Toe the line 25. Designs on lemur’s tail 26. Purchases 27. #39 Across, pl.

28. T in Ferrari TR

29. Thai restaurant chicken staple 32. Elder’s support 33. Flightless bird 36. *Thanksgiving football game host city since 1934 38. Impromptu 40. Big coffee holder 41. Choice word 44. Desert mirage 46. Makes less tight 48. Lace loop 49. “Angela’s _____,” memoir 50. *Raiders vs. Cowboys, e.g.

51. Scandinavian war god 52. Dry riverbed 53. Not final or absolute 54. Exclamation of surprise, archaic 55. Propel your boat!

58. Color wheel feature

8

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November 2021

Monterey Garden Club to host Logsdon at Nov. meeting

By Rebekah Beeler Scribe publisher

Monterey Garden Club member and Whitaker Park Garden chair, Karen Logsdon, will be the guest speaker at the club’s Nov. 9 meeting.

The club meets on the second Tuesday of the month at Monterey United Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m.

Along with the other committee members, she has put a lot of time and care into the garden at the park, from researching appropriate flowering plants and foliage plants that work best for the area, to enhancements and ease of maintenance, working with Monterey Cultural Administrator Rafferty Cleary to get a spigot installed near the flower bed.

This year Monarch Watch certified the Whitaker Park Garden as a Monarch Waystation.

She will be speaking about plans for the Whitaker Park Garden for next spring, discussing pruning techniques and what flowers they would like to plant to maintain their Monarch Waystation certification and how to care for the perennials they’ve planted.

“My goal as chair of Monterey Garden Club’s garden at Whitaker Park is to make our garden colorful, peaceful and easier to maintain for years to come,” said Logsdon. “I understand the garden at Whitaker Park has been around for many years and it means a lot to some of the ladies in our garden club, so I enjoy caring for it for them and others to enjoy.”

She and her husband, John, retired to Cumberland Cove

Photos submitted Monterey Garden Club members, Lynn Connor and RafPictured is the Whitaker Park Garden, a project of the Monterey Garden Club, who ferty Cleary, install the Monarch Waystation sign at the plan, plant, and tend it all year. garden at Whitaker Park.

just over six years ago. She joined the Garden Club a year later, after attending Monterey UMC and meeting other members of the club. With a shared passion for flora and fauna, she took them up on their invitation to join.

“We lived in Florida for 20 years before retiring to Monterey, so I wanted to learn more about what grows well here,” she said.

She joined the club’s garden committee to help at Whitaker Park and became the chair the next year.

In pursuit of learning about an entirely new hardiness zone, she said, “I got advice for the type of bushes to add color to our garden from

meager living, they are still thankful. Scrooge is stirred with concern for Tiny Tim’s condition, the first of many changes he makes in his heart that night. He then takes Scrooge to see his nephew, Harry (Christian Melhuish), celebrating Christmas with his wife and friends and learns exactly how lowly people view him.

The Ghost of Christmas Yet-to-Come is Scrooge’s final, and terribly ominous, visitor and is the epitome of dissonance. The spirit shows Scrooge the fate of Tiny Tim, and himself, if he did not change.

The Bible warns, “Neither a borrower nor a lender be.” The Playhouse’s production of “Scrooge: The Musical” expands on that them to go beyond the subject of money. You don’t “lend” a kindness with the expectation that it will be repaid. You don’t “borrow” a favor to owe one. With this, a concept of “give or forgive,” not putting others in your debt, is realized.

Beyond the bounty of talented actors, the set design is impeccable and ideal, with a cobblestoned London-scape and cleverly designed mobile multi-purposed building pieces. The costume designs are absolutely breathtaking, memorable, accurate, and colorful, each detailed from head to toe, evokes the emotions of each character from the Fezziwig party to the chimney sweeps.

Come and visit The Playhouse for holiday theatrics this season. “Scrooge: The Musical” plays through Dec. 18. Coming soon to CCP is “Plaid Tidings,” a special holiday edition

• SCROOGE • Continued from 5

Twila Yednock who heads the Cumberland Cove Entrance Committee and had a landscaping business. I have attended several classes at UT Gardens and am a member, but not a Master Gardener. I like to order some of our plants from them when they have their spring plant sale.”

She has long since enjoyed a love for gardening and comes by it honestly.

“One of my favorite memories of my grandmother was her tending to her beautiful rose bushes,” she said. “My father also loved planting flowers every spring. My husband planted a vegetable garden the first year we were married and planted

trees, but I quickly learned if I wanted beautiful flowers or bushes, I had to plan for them.”

John has helped with digging holes and tilling the flower bed to prepare all the holes for the bushes and trees at Whitaker Park, and has helped keep everything watered when she is busy with her other passion: dog fostering and adoption with All About Rescue and Fixin’ Inc. in Cookeville.

“My first passion and a way I believe I honor God, is fostering dogs and helping them find a loving, safe home,” she said. “I find gardening to be peaceful and a place where I feel close to God,” she said. “He created a beau-

tiful world so I’ve enjoyed creating colorful garden spots around our home and a memory Garden where I put some of my brother’s ashes under a big rock beside flowers he planted.”

Whitaker Park Garden committee consists of Janice Stansell, Lynn Connor, Cathy Frank, Pauline Zipka, Charlotte McCowan, Louise Vail, Kathy Follenius and Janice Phipps. The club also had two Monterey High School student volunteers help with weeding and hopes to have more MHS volunteers wanting to earn community credits by helping next year.

“We will strive to make it a fun learning experience for

them or anyone wanting to be part of our Whitaker Park Garden team,” she said.

The Garden Club’s beautifully landscaped Whitaker Park Garden is located on the rear left corner on the Elmore St. side of Whitaker Park.

Logsdon encouraged, “I hope people will take time to stroll by our garden and sit on the bench to meditate or relax after laps around the park.”

For more information, please contact Monterey Garden Club President, Jan Stansell at (214) 208-5243 or montereytngardenclub@ yahoo.com.

of “Forever Plaid.” It is rated G and runs Nov. 19 through Dec. 19.

All CCP productions are made possible through sponsor support, with additional support provided by the Tennessee Arts Commission, Playhouse media sponsor The Crossville Chronicle, and Playhouse Season Partners Plateau Pediatrics and Tim and Susan Tewalt.

Tickets can be purchased online at ccplayhouse.com or by calling the Playhouse Box Office at (931) 484-5000. CCP is located at 221 Tennessee Ave. in Crossville.

At right, the Ghost of Christmas Past (Lauren Marhsall) takes Scrooge (Jason Ross) to watch his young self (Mark Perry) at school.

At left, the holly cast Cratchits sing to their Christmas cheer and good health. Pictured are Kylan Ritchie as Belinda, Mrs. Cratchit is Weslie Webster, Justin Burr as Bob, Sarah Norris as Kathy, Zolah Beeler as Martha, Evan Lisic as Tiny Tim and David Kappel as Peter.