K C M Y K C M Y Volume 1, Number 22 Locally Owned & Operated Friday, Dec. 12, 2003 FREE Inside: Christmas Memories pg. 8 Movie Pix pg. 9 Ask Fred pg. 5 Sports Picks pg. 6 Florist Tips pg. 19 Christmas Crafts pg. 18 The week of Dec. 12-19 •See HIGH MARKS page 2 Holiday Shopping Map INSIDE •See AD HOC page 2 2003 Homecoming King & Queen Highlands School Seniors James View and Anna Claire Sims. See more homecoming photos on pages 10 and 11, parade shots on page 13. Dec. 13 & 14 • HEARING WISHES – Santa will be hearing wish lists and posing for photos in Oak Square on Main Street from 10-4 on Sat. and 1-4 on Sun. • FREE CONCERT – The Highlands Community Christian Chorale will present its annual Christmas Concert at the First Presbyterian Cnurch at 4 p.m. Sat. and 7 p.m. Sun. A nursery will be provided. • BENEFIT – There will be a benefit for Ralph Owens who suffered a Skillsaw accident at 5 p.m. at the Satolah Fire Dept. There will be live music, barbecue and a raffle. For more information, call 536-4550. Dec. 14 • FREE CONCERT – The High- lands Community Christian Chorale will present its annual Christmas Con- cert at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Cnurch. A nursery will be provided. • CANTATA – The Chancel Choir of Highlands United Methodist Church will present its Christmas Cantata, "Let Heaven and Nature Sing," on Sunday, during the 11 a.m. worship service. All are welcome to attend. Dec. 15 • BIRD COUNT – The Annual Christmas Bird Count on Monday, December 15, will be the final activity of the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society for 2003. Dec. 17 • CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE – The Children of Highlands United Methodist Church will present "Sound the Bells:The Savior's Born" on Wed., at 6:15 p.m. in the sanctuary. It’s a mu- sical drama. Supper is served at 5:30 p.m. and a reservation is needed by Monday, Dec. 15 at 4 p.m. (526-3376). Dec. 18 • FREE LUNCH – Senior Citizen Luncheon at the Rec Park at noon. Donations are accepted. Dec. 19 • PARTY FOR JESUS – The Children of Highlands United Methodist Church will have a "Birthday Party for Jesus" on Friday, from 8:30- 10:30 a.m. It will include breakfast, birthday cake, games, crafts and more. Reservations are helpful. By Kim Lewicki Last week, public outcry of “foul play” prompted the Town Board to form an ad hoc zoning committee to deal with Old Edwards Inn zon- ing, planning and appearance board dealings but now the point may be moot. Since the Dec. 3 Town Board meeting when citizen Griffin Bell Jr., suggested the Town Board relieve Zoning Administrator Larry Gantenbein of his Old Edwards Inn project duties, everything has changed. “My son has secured financing for his business purchase through Macon Bank,” said Gantenbein. “A.L. Williams has absolutely noth- Ad hoc committee fields OEI zoning issues By Kim Lewicki Public education in Highlands and in the county is in good shape, even slightly better in several cat- egories than counterparts statewide. According to the N.C. School Report Card released this week, Highlands School and Macon County Schools are where they should be, but there’s always room for improvement, said Highlands Principal Jack Brooks. “Overall we are doing well, and what we’re looking at are long term trends.” County schools get high marks NC DOT officials and USFS offi- cials are still trying to figure out what to do about the massive slab of rock that fell from Bridal Veil Falls last week. “It’s going to be removed, but we don’t know if the area is stable or whose responsibility it is to move it,” said Jeff Owenby with USFS. He said it’s likely state geologists will test the area either by drilling or with sound signals but one thing is for sure. “It’s not a safe area. People should heed the barricade.,” he said. For now the rock stays put Photo by Jim Lewicki
Highlands School Seniors James View and Anna Claire Sims. See morehomecoming photos on pages 10 and 11, parade shots on page 13.
Dec. 13 & 14• HEARING WISHES – Santa will
be hearing wish lists and posing forphotos in Oak Square on Main Street from10-4 on Sat. and 1-4 on Sun.
• FREE CONCERT – TheHighlands Community ChristianChorale will present its annualChristmas Concert at the FirstPresbyterian Cnurch at 4 p.m. Sat. and7 p.m. Sun. A nursery will be provided.
• BENEFIT – There will be abenefit for Ralph Owens who suffereda Skillsaw accident at 5 p.m. at theSatolah Fire Dept. There will be livemusic, barbecue and a raffle. For moreinformation, call 536-4550.
Dec. 14• FREE CONCERT – The High-
lands Community Christian Choralewill present its annual Christmas Con-cert at 7 p.m. at the First PresbyterianCnurch. A nursery will be provided.
• CANTATA – The Chancel Choirof Highlands United Methodist Churchwill present its Christmas Cantata, "LetHeaven and Nature Sing," on Sunday,during the 11 a.m. worship service. Allare welcome to attend.
Dec. 15• BIRD COUNT – The Annual
Christmas Bird Count on Monday,December 15, will be the final activityof the Highlands Plateau AudubonSociety for 2003.
Dec. 17• CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE –
The Children of Highlands UnitedMethodist Church will present "Soundthe Bells:The Savior's Born" on Wed.,at 6:15 p.m. in the sanctuary. It’s a mu-sical drama. Supper is served at 5:30p.m. and a reservation is needed byMonday, Dec. 15 at 4 p.m. (526-3376).
Dec. 18• FREE LUNCH – Senior Citizen
Luncheon at the Rec Park at noon.Donations are accepted.
Dec. 19• PARTY FOR JESUS – The
Children of Highlands UnitedMethodist Church will have a "BirthdayParty for Jesus" on Friday, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. It will include breakfast,birthday cake, games, crafts and more.Reservations are helpful.
By Kim LewickiLast week, public outcry of “foul
play” prompted the Town Board toform an ad hoc zoning committeeto deal with Old Edwards Inn zon-ing, planning and appearance boarddealings but now the point may be
moot.Since the Dec. 3 Town Board
meeting when citizen Griffin Bell Jr.,suggested the Town Board relieveZoning Administrator LarryGantenbein of his Old Edwards Innproject duties, everything has
changed.“My son has secured financing
for his business purchase throughMacon Bank,” said Gantenbein.“A.L. Williams has absolutely noth-
Ad hoc committee fields OEI zoning issues
By Kim LewickiPublic education in Highlands
and in the county is in good shape,even slightly better in several cat-egories than counterparts statewide.
According to the N.C. SchoolReport Card released this week,Highlands School and MaconCounty Schools are where theyshould be, but there’s always roomfor improvement, said HighlandsPrincipal Jack Brooks.
“Overall we are doing well, andwhat we’re looking at are long termtrends.”
County schoolsget high marks
NC DOT officials and USFS offi-cials are still trying to figure out whatto do about the massive slab of rockthat fell from Bridal Veil Falls lastweek.
“It’s going to be removed, but wedon’t know if the area is stable orwhose responsibility it is to move it,”said Jeff Owenby with USFS.
He said it’s likely state geologistswill test the area either by drilling orwith sound signals but one thing isfor sure. “It’s not a safe area. Peopleshould heed the barricade.,” he said.
... HIGH MARKS continued from page 1JOHN CLEAVELAND REALTY
(828) 526-4983Fax: (828) 526-2453
www.jcrealty.com223 N. Fourth Street
Shortoff Bluffs HomeThis charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on a beautiful,large, gently rolling lawn with abeautiful winter mountain view.Cedar sideing, 2-car garage, mas-ter on the main with large tub andhigh ceilings are special featuresof this home located in a greatneighborhood. Offered at$395,000.
ing to do with the transaction.”Previously, Michael Gantenbein
had secured financing for part of hisbusiness purchase through a Will-iams capital venture firm. The factthat he is the son of the town’s zon-ing administrator who deals regu-larly with A.L. Williams’ represen-tatives, caused conflict of interestissues to be raised by citizens andcommissioners.
Consequently, the ad hoc com-mittee made up of commissionersDennis DeWolf and Hank Ross andTown Administrator Richard Betz asacting Deputy Zoning Administra-tor, heard all things “Williams” atthe Dec. 10 zoning board meeting.Gantenbein resided over cases notinvolving Williams.
Zoning board members OK’dtwo projects on the Rib CountryRestaurant site. The renovation ofthe restaurant which will become athree-meal-a-day “southern food”establishment. And a dry cleaning/laundry facility under Rib Countrywhere Closet Cowgirl used to be.
The plans were approved con-tingent upon a final built-upon per-centage work up and sidewalks asprescribed by the town through itsmaster sidewalk plan.
During two closed meetings lastweek, Betz told the board thatGantenbein had volunteered to re-cuse himself from OEI dealings be-cause of the political atmosphere intown concerning his son’s financialrelationship with Williams andGantenbein’s “work” relationshipwith OEI projects.
Mayor Allen L. Trott has calleda special meeting of the Board ofCommissioners for 5 p.m. Monday,Dec, 15, at Town Hall.
The purpose of the meeting isto discuss a personnel matter involv-ing Larry Gantenbein in closed ses-sion.
“It will be a general airing of thiswhole thing,” said the mayor
He said obviously some thingshave changed since the boardformed the ad hoc committee.
Once again Highlands School isa School of Distinction, reachingexpected growth where at least 80percent of its students are at orabove grade level.
Schools are rated based on theABCs end-of-grade tests given forgrades 3-8 and end-of-course testsgiven for grades 9-12.
Overall, 86.6 percent of studentsin grades 3-8 scored at or abovegrade level in reading and 89.4 inmath. District-wide 87.1 percent ofstudents scored at or above gradelevel in reading, 89.3 in math. State-wide it was 82.6 in reading, 86.8 inmath.
On the high school level, thepercentage of students scoring at orabove grade level was substantiallyhigher in all subjects accept U.S.History.
In English, 95 percent of High-lands students scored at or abovegrade level – in the district, 81.8 per-cent, the state 81.4.
In algebra I, 94.4 percent ofHighlands students scored at orabove grade level – in the district,88.5 percent, the state 78.9.
In algebra II, 87.5 percent ofHighlands students scored at orabove grade level – in the district,79.3 percent, the state 79.1.
In Geometry 95 percent ofHighlands students scored at orabove grade level – in the district,78 percent, the state 69.9.
In Biology, 83.8 percent of High-lands students scored at or abovegrade level – in the district, 73.6percent, the state 61.1.
In Chemistry, 76 percent ofHighlands students scored at orabove grade level – in the district 75percent, the state 74.3.
In Economic, Legal and Politi-cal Systems, 77.1 percent of High-lands students scored at or abovegrade level – in the district 67.8 per-cent, the state 69.4.
In U.S. History, 45.9 percent ofHighlands students scored at orabove grade level – in the district55.7 percent, the state 55.1.
Brooks encourages parents to goon-line at www.ncreportcards.org tolook at the “total picture.” “Com-pare us in all categories statewidenot just district-wide,” he said.
We welcome letters from our readers. All letters are subject to editing.We reserve the right to reject letters. Anonymous letters will not beaccepted. Letters bearing identification can arrive by post or email. Pub-lished letters do not necessarily represent opinions of Highlands’ News-paper. Letter deadline: Monday prior to publication.
SALEMOVING
HIGHLAND HIKERHIGHLAND HIKER
Dec. 8-14 30% OFF Select MerchandiseDec. 15-24 40% OFF Select MerchandiseDec. 26-Jan. 3 50% OFF Select Merchandise
Watch for the reopening of the Highland Hiker at 601 E.Main St. in early 2004. Our Cashiers store at the Crossroads
will be open 6 days a week throughout the winter.
All Sales FinalNo Returns ~ Refunds ~ Exchanges
Gift wrap and shipping not available for this sale
Dear Editor:For the past several years, my family and I have spent Thanksgiving
in Highlands. This year, we were treated to the added excitement of the“Great 2003 Day After Thanksgiving Blizzard.” Unfortunately, Isomehow managed to lose my cell phone while shopping on MainStreet just a couple of hours before the snow started. I didn’t discoverthe loss until the next morning. By that time there were several inchesof snow on the streets and sidewalks, making my search nearlyimpossible.
I tried to retrace my steps from the previous day (which included atrip to Cashiers) but was unable to find the phone.. However, I wasoverwhelmed by the thoughtfulness shown by so many shopkeepers inHighlands who took the time to try to help me. One of the ladiessuggested that I check with the Highlands Police Department (HPD),stating, “The people in Highlands are so honest that somebody willprobably turn it in.” Although my visit to the HPD was unsuccessful,the lady was right. When I arrived home in Knoxville, I had a messagewaiting from the Highlands Quick Mart stating that they had found myphone.
I contacted Fred Bowers at the Texaco Quick Mart, and he gottogether with Joe and Marsha Shmaol at Lindy’s Gifts & Collectibles,who shipped the phone to me with some items my wife had purchasedat their shop. I received the phone yesterday afternoon, and was pleasedto learn that not one “900” call had been placed!
I want to express my thanks to Fred and the Shmalos, as well as allof the other shopkeepers who were so helpful. It’s nice to know thatthere are still a few places where people genuinely care about eachother. Merry Christmas, Highlands!
John OrrKnoxville, Tenn.
• Letter to the Editor •
In Highlands, people still care
Dressing for ‘Parade Day’
The folks at Mountain Fresh Foods are a happy, festive bunchevery day of the year, but on Parade Day in Highlands they dressthe part. Last year, Bruce Sloan, general manager, started a tradi-tion of wearing “Christmas Shirts” on Parade Day and it stuck. Sofar, only the ladies and Bruce wear the shirts, but who knowsmaybe next year the guys will get on board. From left are Bruce,Angie, Renee Selena, Frankie and Pee Wee.
• Obituary •
Henry LaCagnina, 94, of High-lands, died Tuesday, December 9,2003 in the Highlands-CashiersHospital. He was a native of Brook-lyn, N.Y., a son of the late GiuliaSchmentti LaCagnina. He was a re-tired artist, and was a member of theEpiscopal Church.
He is survived by a daughter,Giulia R. Saucier of Hattiesburg,Miss.; and two sons, David H.LaCagnina of Highlands, andMichael LaCagnina of High Springs,
Fla.; one sister, Genevieve Viscarelliof Lewiston, Maine; four grandchil-dren also survive.
Memorial services will be heldat a later date. Memorials may bemade to Highlands-Cashiers Hos-pice, P.O. Box 190, Highlands, N.C.28741 or to the American CancerSociety, P.O. Box 1648, Franklin,N.C. 28734.
Bryant Funeral Home is incharge of the arrangements.
Have you picked up your copy of Life Under Construction? A greatgift or even better way to start the new year. Stop by Chapter 2 inCashiers or Cyrano’s Bookshop in Highlands or [email protected]. Dr. Maryellen Lipinski is a psychologist byprofession and an international professional speaker by design.Currently, she coaches individuals to obtain their goals in life andworks as a Realtor at Village Realty of Sapphire Valley.www.ilovemountainrealestate.com. Her first book, Random Thoughtsand Mine Always Are. Conscious Detours to Creative Power will makeyou laugh, cry, and think! www.maryellenlipinski.com
Remember Best of the Bunch for ALL your holiday giftgiving needs. Floral arrangements, plants, customdesigned gift and gourmet baskets. Let us help you
decorate for the holidays with fresh flowers, plants andgreenery.
641 N. 4th Street Highlands, NC 28741(828) 526-0490
Monday-Friday9:30 to 5
Saturday10 to 2
Show up like there is no placeelse your want to be! Ordon’t go.
Show up and Be Present. Tisthe holiday season. I know thatsometimes it is difficult to evenshow up at events, let alone bereally present. What do I mean?
I’m just talking about puttingyour heart and soul into yourdaily activities.
To me, showing up is justgetting there but being presentmeans really being attentive andlistening to those around you. It’smuch easier said than done. Howmany times have you had aconversation with someone andyou really don’t remember muchof it? OK. Don’t answer that.
Let’s talk about the power ofpresence. Every human beingcarries the power of presence. WaltWhitman recognized this powerwhen he wrote in Leaves of Grass,“We convince by our presence.”This is a wonderful book.
It can be rough being attentivearound the holidays. For years, Iwrote about depression during theholidays or what some call theholiday blues. I’d like to suggestseveral tips to help you show upand be present and participateduring the holiday by sharingyour unique spirit.
Gandhi said, “We must be thechange we want to see in theworld.” The change I would like tosee is that people share more oftheir spirit. We all have it and nowjust might be the time to let it out.I am sure you know people thatspread toxic fumes. Bah Humbug.
Breakaway spirit…
1. Lower your expectations!Whatever they are for the holidays,crank ‘em down a notch. Here’s achallenge. Try not having any at all.
2. Understand that everyone isunder stress.
3. I’m not going to mentiontoo much food or drink. Youalready know that!
4. A dream come true holidayonly comes once a lifetime, if that.Most of the movies and photos inthe magazines are not even closeto reality. And then we aresubjected to TV commercials witheveryone so huggy and smiley. Myfavorite is when a guy picks up agal and swings her around andaround and they have huge smileson their faces. Just once, I like thatto happen to me. PLEASE!?
5. Connecting with or beingnear people you love is what theholidays are all about. Lettingpeople know that you love themand that they are not alone in thisworld. If you can’t be near yourfamily, be near friends. If you can’tbe near friends, enjoy your owncompany.
And finally, remember that thespirit of Christmas works bestwhen it is shared year round.
WildThyme
Gourmet
490 Carolina Way ~ 526-4035
OPENChristmas Eve
for lunch, only andNew Year’s Eve & Day for
lunch and dinner.Now taking reservations.
“Celebrating 52 years in Highlands”
Home of thefamous
“Dusty Dogs”
“We cut theBEST steaks
in town!”
493 Dillard Rd.526-2762
Taking orders for Holiday Turkeysand Hams. Plan more holiday fun by
using our ready-to bake pies,cookies, breads & hors d’oeuvres
UPS & FEDEX Shipping OutletHwy. 107, 1/4 mi. North of the Crossroads in Cashiers
10 a.m.-5 p.m., M-F, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat743-3222
Bought too much to carry home?
Want to have some fun this winter? Our very own Contributor/Colum-nist Fred Wooldridge is ready to answer your questions about Highlandswith tongue in cheek. The sky’s the limit. All published questions are anon-ymous and, of course, don’t expect a straight answer. E-mail us [email protected]. Put “Dear Fred” in memo line. We reserve the
Christmas Day buffet at the inn
The third annual Christmas Day Buffet benefiting Habitat forHumanity is at the Main Street Inn. Seating begins at noon.Dinner buffet includes, baked ham, roasted turkey, sweetand mashed potatoes, dressing, assorted vegetables, desserts,ice or hot tea or coffee. Wine available by the glass or bottle.The cost is $24.95 per person. MasterCard, Visa or AmericanExpress accepted. Call 526-2590 for reservations. Seating islimited.
Dear Fred:I am having eight people for
dinner and my husband and Iare arguing over whether toserve the salad first and thenthe entree or just sit the wholedinner on the table at once. Hesays serving the salad first ismuch too formal for our atmo-sphere. He is really being apersistent jerk on this issue.What do you think?
Salad Now On The Table
Dear S.N.O.T.T.First off, never invite eight
people for dinner because, includ-ing you and your grumpy hus-band, that makes a total of ten.
Since you only have a tablesetting for eight, two people aregoing to have to eat off the platesyou got from the last Bi Lo promo-tion.
Then again, the road you liveon is in such poor condition,expect most people without fourwheel drive cars won't showanyway. (I did not say the B word.)
Secondly, don't worry aboutthe atmosphere. Keep the roomtemperature at 70 and don't servecocktails outside if it is snowing.Practically no one I know of everrefuses to go to a dinner partybecause of poor atmosphericconditions. Check with Highlandsweather the day before, not thatthat will help much.
Also, never take your husband
to Italy for fine dining. There's agood chance that he will get hissalad served at the very end of themeal and you will have to unscrewhim from the ceiling.
If your bone headed husbandreally wants to turn this into amajor tiff then you must realizethat a mere salad is not worth allthis arguing and bickering. Simplysend him to his room until every-one has finished your succulentgarden repast and then serve hissalad with his entree.
Remind him that he is incharge of the lawn mower and youare in charge of the kitchen.
When dessert is served, makesure he gets an extra small portion.When he gives you that icy glarefrom across the table and thenlooks down at his dessert, ask himif he enjoyed his salad.
Remember, training peoplefrom Mars is a never endingprocess.
Dining Etiquette
Got E-mail?This holiday season give the gift of a
Highlands’ Newspaper PDF Internet subscription.$12 per year. Weekly PDF version of paper posted at
Located on N.C. 107 in Cashiers opposite Zoller Hardware
• Sports Picks •
Ryan Potts
Advertise your business each week in a “fresh package”to 5,000 potential buyerswho don’t have to buy the
paper to see your ad. Call 526-0782
•See SPORTS PICKS page 7
Every year during the holidayseason folks begin to think alittle more about other
people and a little less aboutthemselves.That’s one of theneat thingsabout the Christ-mas spirit.
For me, theChristmas seasonmarks the anni-versary of some-thing very specialto me. Iit wasonly a few yearsago when one ofmy dreams cametrue at Christmastime.
As kids, weall have heroes – people who welook up to, study intently, evenidolize. Whether it be knockingdown threes as Larry Bird ortongue-wagging layups as HisAirness; hitting a game winninghomer as Barry Bonds or gettingthat clinching strikeout asMariano Rivera; busting a 90 yardTD run as Walter Payton or throw-ing that last second TD pass asMontana or Favre – kids dream ofbeing their heroes.
And while they dream of beinglike someone on TV, or on theradio, or on the field kids alsoadmire other, more tangibleheroes – people who are there foryou day in and day out and helpget you through life.
While this may be hard forsome to believe, it shouldn’t be.How much more do you under-stand someone you see everyday?
For some it is parents, forothers teachers, pastors, friends,upperclassmen, coaches or evenjust a passing acquaintance thatprovide a spark that powers ateenager through the day, a week,a tough time, or even just a shortfeeling of doubt about their ownself worth.
Growing up I had many ofthese everyday heroes – each oneof them providing that extra bit of
Everyday Heroes and Christmas Dreamsmotivation or offering just theright message (sometimes evenunspoken) to quell feelings ofinsignificance, frustration or
insecurity.One particu-
lar hero standsout to methough – espe-cially when Ithink back tothose nightsplaying hoops.He of thesmooth, effort-less jumper andhigh basketballIQ – the guywho alwaysseemed to be astep ahead of the
defense.When I was a young player, I
wanted to be like him and Ilooked up to him, for no particu-lar reason other than the fact thathe actually spoke to me on occa-sion, and because I liked his game.
And while I don’t rememberthe day, and I don’t remember thereason I remember the words.They weren’t the words of an olderkid trying to be nice, and theyweren’t the sarcastic words of anormal teenager, they werejust…words. But to me, it was asense of validation, a sense that allof the work and all of the frustra-tion may just be worth somethingafter all.
Now don’t get me wrong, Iwasn’t an unhappy kid, and Iwasn’t on the verge of somethingdrastic, but I was frustrated, readyto quit, ready to try somethingnew and different, something thatwasn’t so hard. But because ofthose words, I didn’t.
When thinking back on myChristmas dream come true, Ican’t quite remember every detaillike I used to – every made basket,every turnover, every boneheadedplay. But I can still remember thatfeeling as if it were yesterday – that
KC MY
KC MY
Highlands’ Newspaper - Friday, Dec.12, 2003 - Page 7... SPORTS continued from page 6
The Gaslight CafeDinner Mon.-Sat. 5:30-until
OPENChristmas Eve, New Year’s Eve
& New Year’s Day.Holiday Festivities Planned
Call 526-4188 for reservations
In HistoricHelen’s Barn3 generationsof Fine ItalianCooks
Hand-cut Steaks - Chicken - Seafood - Italian Specialties - Wine List
Open New Year’s Eve & Day – Reservations appreciated
(828) 526-3380FIRESIDE DINING
“As Seen in Southern Living Magazine”Directly behindHampton Inn off Hwy 106
Macon County School board members, several employees atthe main office and everyone else who attended the Dec. 8board meeting at Nantahala School enjoyed a “Turkey Dinnerwith all the fixings.” There was sliced turkey breast (not pro-cessed), mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, green beans, hotrolls, apple pie and ice cream. And Sherri Baldwin, who pre-pared the meal with the help of her staff, said “Yes, the chil-dren at Nantahala School really do eat this well.”
Christmas dinner on Dec. 8
feeling that you can only get whenone of your childhood fantasiesbecomes reality.
And when I look back, I thinkabout the road up to that day, andI think about all the things thatcould have gone wrong, or couldhave happened to change history.
And I think about all of thethings that maybe could havehappened, or should have hap-pened and realize that thingsaren’t merely by chance, and thatdreams are not built on luck, orchance, or fortune.
When you look back at yourlife, and all the dreams that havecome true for you, take the time torealize that your dream was builton the backs of thousands ofeveryday heroes.
Thousands of long talks, hugs,special days, family dinners,unexpected phone calls, bestfriends, surprise visits or evenmerely a compliment from some-one that you admire and respect.
They all are the buildingblocks for our dreams – and if justone block is missing, then thewhole tower falls.
Some may say that it is sad ortrite that an ugly, poorly playedbasketball game on a Friday night
in December was a dream cometrue for me, but it’s not a sense ofaccomplishment, or self impor-tance that fills my memories. Andthe more I stare backwards intime, I realize that it doesn’t haveanything to do with basketball atall.
In fact, it is a sense of awe –awe of that moment where every-one forgot their grievances, theirjealousies, their problems andtheir fears – where in my eyeseveryone forgot about everythingbut joy-even if it was for only amoment.
And I know that everyone hashad that joy at some time in theirlife, whether it be that momentwhere you made your parentsbeam with pride, or your first kiss,or your wedding day, or the birthof your child.
And I know that the Christmasseason provides us with theopportunity to thank those every-day heroes that make the joy ofour dreams possible.
So to everyone that has everbeen an inspiration and a hero tome – thank you from the bottomof my heart.
Merry Christmas and GodBless You all.
Franklin businesses offeringpercentage of sales for Care Net
Pictured are Fred Stiles manager of TheAthlete’s Foot and Tom Geigerichmanager of WNC SportsZone.
The Athlete’s Foot and WNCSportsZone are doing more thisChristmas than selling shoes and
sporting goods – they are alsohelping collect food for Care Net.
Care Net is a non-profitorganization thatprovides food to needyfamilies in MaconCounty. Donate twocans of food and receive$5 off any pair of shoesat The Athlete’s Foot or10 percent off anypurchase at WNCSportsZone.
Donate three or morecans of food and receive$10 off your shoepurchase or 20 percentoff at WNC SportsZone.
CashiersAt the Crossroads(Beside Brookings)(828) 743-2905
TF: 866-397-2544
When you buy or sell a home through any of our agents, adonation is made to the Children’s Miracle Network
– Christmas Memories –
By Kim Lewicki
Christmas preparation inHighlands wasn’t alwaysmarked by tree lightings,
frantic shopping, and scores ofweekend shoppers.
Mary Thompson, mother ofex-mayor John Cleaveland, whosefamily has lived in Highlands,well, forever, said life inHighlands though good, is quitedifferent from days of old.
“I think wesometimes makeChristmas toomaterialistic. WhenI was coming up,we didn’t do a lotof Christmasshopping. First ofall, there wasn’t alot of wealth inHighlands, N.C.,like there is nowand there wereonly one or twoshops.”
Like a lot ofpeople today, Maryand her family cutdown theirChristmas tree. “Atthat time, though,we could goanywhere wewanted to get it.Sometimes therewas snow on theground and thatwas nice,” she said.
Traditionally, Christmas is atime for family but in Highlands,bound by impassable roads andblustery winter weather, familywas particularly important.
“We didn’t have much, but wehad family. We loved and caredfor each other and that’s whatmattered.” A lot of people madegifts instead of buying them andpreparing for Christmas was acommunity affair, she said.
“We’d bake together and visiteach other, take meals and gifts toshut-ins, go to Christmas Eveservices at churches,” she said.“Even now, spending ChristmasEve at my church, going there
through the snow – that’s one ofmy favorite times of the year.”
Though nostalgic about thepast, Mary said there are morethings going on in Highlandsthese days and that’s goodincluding more communicationand more town services.
“If people had to live the waywe did then, I don’t think theycould do it,” said Mary.
After WWII there wasn’t anywork in most ofWestern NorthCarolina and lifewas particularlyhard in Highlands.“Lot’s of us movedto Virginia whereit was booming,”said Mary. “Therewas a lot ofconstruction goingon there becauseof its proximity toWashington D.C.”
Over the years,life has gotteneasier inHighlands. Moreand more peoplehave year-longjobs but stillHighlanders havealways had to behearty especially inthe winter.
“We used to besnowbound for
days, even in the ‘60s. It wasn’teasy to get around in those days.You did a lot of walking. You justbundled up with extra clothing. Ididn’t mind it. The cold didn’thurt like it does now. When you’reyoung you don’t pay attention tothe cold.”
There was a lot of sleddingback then, particularly on Satulahand Monkey Hill. More iceskating, too. Harris and Mirrorlakes were frozen solid for monthsat a time but Mary said MirrorLake was used more because it waslarger.
“Skating is almost non-existent
Highlands – changing with the times
The deep snows of themid-1900s proved moredisruptive for Highlandsthan snows of 1886 and
1893 because said,Gertrude Harbison, “By1942 many Highlandershad accustomed them-selves to automobilesand electricity without
which they found them-selves snowbound and
incapacitated.”An 11-inch snowfall in1979 disrupted life in
Highlands. But the Bliz-zard of 1993 called “thestorm of the century,”
threw the town into realturmoil when 16 inchesof snow fell in a 12-hour
Hospital Auxiliary Tree of LightsBells (in honor of livingfriends and loved ones)
and Stars (in memory ofdeceased friends and
loved ones) will be placedon the Hospital Auxiliary
Christmas Tree. Thesetributes are available witha gift of $25 or more. All
money will be used tofund scholarships forstudents planning on
entering the health carefield.
Complete the form below(please print) and mail to
Highlands-CashiersHospital Foundation
Attn: Tree of Lights,P.O. Box 742,
Highlands, N.C. 28741.
Amount Given: ___________________________________________________Circle one: In Memory of In Honor ofName: ___________________________________________________________Address:__________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________Send acknowledgement to: _________________________________________Address: _________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________Make checks payable to Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Auxiliary. Donations mayalso be made at the Hospital Gift Shop or through any member of the Auxil-iary.
Everyone is invited toplace an ornament onthe tree in memory or
in honor of a familymember.
The tree will be in the Highlands-Cash-iers Hospital Lobby during December
The Animal BarnCome do Christmas shopping for pets and
the people who love them.• Dog, cat & horse
supplies• Turvis Tumblers
• & More
• Pet sitting• Dog training• Experienced,
knowledgeable staff.A year-round shop at the Franklin Flea/Craft Market
Open Mon., Tues., Thurs., 10-6; Wed. 10-4; Fri.-Sun., 9-4.Call: 349-3526
Video Guy Presents:
The 1991, PG film
"Oscar"Written by Michael Barr & Jim
Mullholland, directed by JohnLandis, starring Sylvester Stalloneand, if not exactly a cast of thou-
sands, several dozens at least, thatincludes Marisa Tomei, DonAmeche, Vincent Spano, Tim
Curry, Kirk Douglas, JimMullholland as Oscar, and many
more.
The Story Line: "Snaps"Provolone (Stallone),mob boss, promises
his dying father he will gostraight. He is not helpedin the slightest by a lineof hoods, cons, cops,crooked accountants,real and bogusdaughters, andOscar. One (ormaybe more)young mancomes to askfor Snap'sdaughter'shand inmarriage(maybe).
A whirlwindafternoon takes place ashoods turn into butlers, strang-ers into daughters, tailors intohit men, and a really cool, silly,really fast near Marx Brothersroutine with a bunch of blackbags, some that contain dirtylaundry, some filled with jewels.
If you are looking for a deep,dramatic, moving piece of cin-ematic work of art, keep looking.If you are looking for some fast,clever and silly, this will fill thebill. This could well be some ofStallion's best comic work(admittedly, this is not the most
high praise, but, what the hey,it's a fun bit).
A bit of ThreeStooges, a bit of
MarxBroth-ers
(Hey, ifyou're
gonna stealideas, steal
from thebest), there are
mix ups, hiddenidentities,
switched bags, andyes, slamming
doors. And romanceas well, consider the
following quote as TimCurry woos his lady love,
"Your diction is surpris-ingly good, considering
your genealogy."A neat bit of fluff, Stallone
really is better at comedy thanaction (although, sometimes itIS a bit hard to tell which iswhich). Some more light heartedmob "hits" are Blues Brothers,Fish Called Wanda, Bullets OverBroadway, Family Business, DickTracy, and Freshman. These andabout 5000 other titles areavailable at Movie Stop, stop onin and give us a look.
Dr. Joe Mason with assistants Ellie Hogan and Sherry Mason dur-ing first implant surgery on Tuesday.
Corbin and Edwards reappointed
At the Dec. 8 Macon County School Board meeting atNantahala School, board members re-appointed Kevin Corbinas chairman and Donnie Edwards as vice-chairman of theschool board.
Martin Rice, former director ofvocal-choral music at PfeifferUniversity, will lead a ten-week voicelesson course for SouthwesternCommunity College.
Rice will focus on thedevelopment of an outstandingsinging and speaking voice. Studentswill study intercostals-diaphragmaticbreath support, vibrato, range andregister, posture, vowel quality andfocus, consonant articulation andresonance.
Those interested in improvingtheir voice for solo, choral orensemble singing, as well as thoseinterested in public speaking andtheater will benefit from thetechniques taught in this course.
The class will meet from 6:30 -7:45 p.m. on Tuesdays, Jan. 20 - Mar.23, at the First United MethodistChurch in Franklin.
There is a $25 registration fee. Foradditional information or to register,call SCC’s Macon Center at 369-7331.
Aspiring singers – take note
Attendees of the public meetingabout the proposed bridge closingon U.S. 28 were recently sent a letterfrom Georgia DOT.
Harvey D. Keepler, with thedepartment’s State Environmental/Location Engineer said, “Thedepartment understands theconcerns regarding the potentialclosure of the bridge.
“At this time, our preferredalternative is to construct the newbridge while maintaining one laneof traffic.
“Environmental surveys areunderway in the area of theproposed project to determine thepotential environmental impacts.
“The Department is in theprocess of developing a plan thatwill minimize the impacts to boththe human and naturalenvironment.”
There is no guarantee this willhappen but proponents of leavingthe bridge open during constructionsay it’s a step in the right direction.
GA DOT ‘heard’ citizens’ concerns
Medical services on andaround the plateau are gettingbetter and better.
Dr. Joe Mason, D.M.D.,FADG performed the area’s firstdental implant surgery, Tuesday,Dec. 9 in his office in Cashiers.
Assisting Dr. Mason was con-sulting pharmacist and wife,Sherry Mason and Ellie Hogan,CDA, longtime assistant of High-lands dentist Dr. Rodenbeck.
Previously, candidates fordental implants and other ad-vanced restorative care had totravel to Sylva, Asheville, and At-lanta to get the work done.
He says the surgical implantof teeth is the esthetically thebest.
“The exact placement of theimplant is critical for the mostrealistic appearance,” said Ma-son. “Mimicking the natural
beauty of teeth with an implantis dentistry’s goal and estheticsuccess or failure is always deter-mined at the time of surgicalplacement not when the implantis restored,”
He said implants should onlybe placed in the healthiest ofmouths. He has restored im-plants for years but is now goingto “another level” with surgicalimplants.
Mason is a graduate of theUniversity of Kentucky, Collegeof Denistry and has earned fel-lowship status in the Academy ofGeneral Denistry.
He has studied implantologyin a 10-month mini-residencysponsored by AAID through theMedical College of Georgia andhas been trained for advanceddental prosthetics at the L.D.Pankey Institute and the Centerof Advanced Dental Studies, bothin Florida.
Mason’s practice is located inChestnut Square in Cashiers.
With the deluge of rainwater a few weeks ago, a slight prob-lem arose at the Highlands School gymnasium construction site.Seven inches of rain coupled with runoff from the rock facebehind the site pooled up around the footings. “There’s just nowhere for it to go,” said board member Donnie Edwards. “Thearchitect has gone back to the drawing board to design a drain-age system to alleviate the problem. Superintendent Dr. RodneyShotwell said the problem will worsen when a pitched roof isadded to the picture. “Then it will be coming from the sky andrunning off the roof as well,” he said. Meanwhile, a moat-typearrangement is being used to funnel the water away from thefootings.
By Kim LewickiSo what kind of winter are we
in for? How many snowfalls?Are the telltale signs the num-
ber of fogs in August? Or, is it basedon the date of the first snowfall inNovember? If that holds true High-lands is in for 28 snowfalls. The firstsnowfall of the season was aboutthree inches on Nov. 28.
National weather watchers sayweather this winter season is likelyto be one of extremes – the lack of a“Nino” system is to blame.
“Without a Nino, which tendsto keep a weather pattern on hold,we’ll have heat waves and cold spellsacross the country,” said officials.
So far that forecast is ringingtrue here in Highlands. Over the lastfew weeks we’ve seen torrentialdownpours and spring-like balmydays that suddenly turn icy cold.
On Nov. 28, a spring-like morn-ing spawned snow by late after-noon, early evening.
Highlanders and hundreds ofvisitors who came to town for theThanksgiving weekend, awoke to amild, rainy day that hovered around50.
But by 4 p.m. temperatures hadplummeted to the low 30s-high 20s.Wet roads started to ice over and thesnow began to fall.
By the time the snow trulyended sometime after midnight,
Extreme weather teasingHighlands to continue
Photos by Jim Lewicki
three to four inches covered the pla-teau.
True to the weather extremes oflate, Saturday, Nov. 29 dawned clearand sunny but stayed cold most ofthe day and into the night. And it’sstayed in the high then low 30s eversince.
Despite Friday night’s icy roads,Highlands Fire and Rescue wascalled out to just one accident atU.S. 64 east and Little Bear Pen Roadwhere a vehicle slid off the roaddown an embankment.
Most people greeted the blast ofcold and snow with glee.
“Who expected this?” said a visi-tor from Nashville, Tenn. He and hisfamily sledded down Monkey Hillmaking the most of the meagersnow fall.
The weather helped get peopleinto the holiday shopping spirit.Shoppers crowded downtown Fri-day and Saturday looking for bar-gains and enjoying the “NormanRockwell” feel of shopping in High-lands.
“You’d think they were givingeverything away for free,” said a visi-tor from California who gave up try-ing to find a parking space.
Most merchants said sales werebrisk, on both days – some claimFriday was their BIG day others saySaturday outperformed Friday,likely due to the weather, they said.
When the snow starts falling visitors and locals head for MonkeyHill. A lot of sledding can be done on three inches and a little ice.
Photo by Jim Lewicki
now,” said Mary. “Course it’s dueto the stuff they put on the roadsto keep them clear that ends up inthe lakes.”
In the not-too-distantHighlands past, seasonal folks leftafter Labor Day and didn’t returnuntil the spring. “They couldn’tget here, for one thing,” said Mary.“The roads weren’t as good andthere was a lot more snow.Everything closed down tight.”
Now people come back toHighlands for Thanksgiving andChristmas and that’s nice, saidMary. “That means Highlands is ameaningful place to be. It’s notlike the cities. They come backbecause Highlands is special.”
“It may change and that’s allright. People may come and go,but as long as I can look out andsee the trees, I’m happy.”
... CHRISTMAS MEMORIES from page 8
OldHigh-landsclosed
uptight,cov-eredwith
snow.
KC MY
KC MY
Highlands’ Newspaper - Friday, Dec.12, 2003 - Page 15• Spiritually Speaking•• Places of Worship on the Plateau •
Blue Valley Baptist ChurchRev. Oliver Rice, Pastor (706) 782-3965
Sundays: School – 10 a.m., Worship – 11 a.m.Sunday night services every second and fourth
Sunday at 7 p.m.Wednesdays: Mid-week prayer meeting – 7 p.m.
Buck Creek Baptist ChurchSundays: School – 10 a.m.; Worship – 11 a.m.
First Saturday: Singing at 7:30 p.m.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day SaintsNC 28 N. and Pine Ridge Rd., (828) 369-8329
Rai Cammack, Branch President, (828) 369-1627Sundays: Worship – 10 a.m.; school & primary
classes – 11 a.m.; Women’s & Men’s Org. – noonTuesdays: Women’s Org. – 6:30 p.m.; Library – 6-8Wednesdays: Boy Scouts of America mtg. – 6:30
p.m.; Young women’s activities – 6:30 p.m.
Clear Creek Baptist ChurchPastor Everett Wilson, (828) 743-3379
Westside Baptist ChurchInterim Pastor, Terry Dixon
Services in the basement of the Peggy CrosbySundays: Fellowship – 11 a.m.; Worship – 11 a.m.
Whiteside Presbyterian Church in AmericaCashiers, Rev. Sam Forrester, 743-2122
Sundays: School – 10 a.m.; Worship – 11 a.m.
So much to do and not enough time to get itall done”. Take some deep breaths, that’s it,breath, one more time…breath” Feel better?
There is an old gospel tune with the words,“Take time to be holy…” The problem isn’t thatmost people don’t want to be holy, it’s that wedon’t have the time to be holy. We’re too busydoing other things. Granted some things areimportant but let’s face it - so much of what takesup our time is just plain crazy. In most homes,kids are as busy as their parents. Some even haveDay Timers to keep track of their schedules.Crazy! Maybe this accounts for the fact that thenumber one complaint parents hear the most is,“I’m so bored.” We have conditioned ourselvesinto a state of perpetual motion.
So what’s the answer? Believe it or not theanswer is found in the hymn I quoted earlier. Weneed to “take time to be holy.” We need to spendless time moving and more time sitting. We needto start reconditioning ourselves into thinkingthat life is more about “being” and less about“doing”.
The Christmas season is the busiest time ofthe year. And oddly it may be the most unholy.Unholy? Yes - far too often we forget whatChristmas is about. Christmas is the mostexhausting time of the year. It’s not about run-ning around like a chicken with its head cut off..Some people take aerobics classes just to get inshape for all that “it” demands. And let’s face it -most of us end the year wiped out physically,emotionally, and spiritually. So what’s theanswer?
“Take time to be holy/ Speak oft with thyLord/ Abide in Him always/ And feed on Hisword/ Take time to be holy/ The world rusheson/ Spend much time in secret/ With Jesusalone” (W.D. Longstaff)
If you’re living life but enjoying it less doyourself a favor and set some time apart to bewith Jesus. Life was not meant to be lived on therun. Put on the brakes “take time to be holy.”
Until 11 p.m., Thurs., Fri. & Sat.Live Entertainment Thurs., Fri. & Sat. evenings
The Pizza Place526-5660
On Main StreetPizza, specialty sandwiches & salads
Eat in or carry outOpen for lunch & dinner
Highlands Hill Deli526-9632
4th Street across from Old Edwards InnMade-to-order sandwiches,
green & fruit salads, ice creamOpen 7 days a week 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. MTW
and 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Th., Fri., Sat. Sun.
Dillard Rd. next to Farmer’s Mkt.
Meats, Seafood &Prepared Foods
Open 6 days,8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Closed Sundays526-5241
Hilltop GrillFourth & Spring “on the Hill”
“Quick Service Not Fast Food”– 526-5916
Hamburgers, fries, sandwiches & salads
Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Brick Oven Pizza526-4121
Mtn. Brook Center next to Movie StopMade-to-order pizza, calzones & salads
Open for lunch & dinner year-round
Don Leon’s526-1600
Dillard Road next to Farmer’s MarketCajun & European specialties
Sandwiches & moreTues. - Sun. 11 - 7
Pescado’s526-9313
Fourth Street “on the Hill”Fresh Mexican
“The fastest food in town”Lunch 7 days: 11-3; Dinner: Tues.-Sat. 5-8:30
OPEN Mondays through Saturdays10 a.m. -5 p.m.
352 Main Street
HOLIDAY SHOPPING HEADQUARTERS
828-526-4111
• Fine Estate Jewelry• Antique Furniture
• Oriental Rugs• Fine Art
• Accessories
Hello Highlands, Happy Holidays fromthe Ranch!Hope all is well in our beautiful little
town. We sure miss seeing Highlands alldressed up for Christmas. How we miss all ofyou as well.
Well, life on the ranch is definitely 24/7. Itstarts at 5:30 a.m. and ends around 10 pm. Imust admit, at the age of 50 (ish), I’m tired!We go non-stop all day. Donnie and I onlyhave three boys at the moment. We acquiredall three within a two-week period. That meanta lot of adjusting to do in a small time. Yourhousehold can change in the blink of an eye,so you never know. Most of the other homeshave 7-9 boys as we speak.
Your day starts with breakfast, a devotionaland some chores. Once the boys are off toschool, then the race is on to get the moundsof laundry, cooking meals, and the normaleveryday chores one would have, done. Add tothis all the involvement with school things(they attend a private Christian school thatrequires parental involvement), doctors anddental appointments, ball game after ballgame to attend it gets crazy sometimes.
Upon arriving home from school, it’ssnacks, homework (they are required a 1-2hour study time), and their chores. During thistime, we’re cooking dinner, helping with
The Calloways sendgreetings from BigOak Ranch in Ala.
Donnie and Bitsey Calloway with Jacob is15 and in the 7th, Josh is 13 and in the6th, and Daniel is 13 and in the 7th in theirhome at Oak Ranch.
Large, Small and Flatbed WreckersLocal and Long Distance Towing
U-HAUL Rentals 828-526-1926
Custom Homes • Remodeling • AdditionsUnlimited License • Insured
Bud Neidrauer526-4780
Dr. Kit Barker, L.A.c., F.S., Ph.DMicrocurrent Pain Therapy Skin Care“Eastern Philosophy Meets Western Technology”
• Hot Stone Massage • Massage • Facials •• Microdermabrasion • Permanent Cosmetics •
5 Cottage RowHighlands
Call 526-1566
Everything your pet needs!
Photography by Cynthia StrainPhotography by Cynthia StrainPhotography by Cynthia StrainPhotography by Cynthia StrainPhotography by Cynthia StrainOffering photography services for events
and special occasions, mountain landscapes.Call (828) 526-9227 or email:
Page 18 - Highlands’ Newspaper - Friday, Dec.12, 2003 • Christmas Crafts •... BIG OAK RANCH from page 16homework (most of these boyscome here and they are belowlevel in school), taking boys to orpicking up from practices orgames.
In your home you may haveboys playing at all levels, whichmeans different times. It becomesa real juggling act. After thehomework, the chores, the boystry to get in some playing timebefore dinner. It’s dinner and thentime to get ready for bed (nottheir favorite thing to do).
Some of you are reading thisand thinking it’s no different thanmy life. I must admit, I oftenthink of the McKim family, howdid they do it? But here is thedifference.
The boys we deal with arecoming out of such dysfunctionalfamilies they are not used to beingtold what to do, or if they are, it’snot in a nice way. They are notused to having boundaries in theirlives. They are not used to eatinghealthy meals. They are not usedto having a normal bedtime. Oneof our boys stayed on the streetsuntil 2-3 in the morning. One ofour boys had already been kickedout of every school in the county
and was in what they call analternative school. Every day is abattle just to do the most simplethings — brush teeth, put yourplate in the washer, pick up yoursocks....etc.
So you see it is not onlyphysically taxing, but mentallyand emotionally taxing. We haveoften said it is like trying to breaka wild horse. Persistence and tonsof consistent love.
There are days we feel like weare riding on a rollercoaster — Ican do this, I can’t do this, I cando this. Then you step back andsee how far your boys have come.It’s usually baby steps but that’sOK. And you know this is whyyou are here.
This is not a job to attemptwithout God’s strength andwisdom. To Him we give all theglory and praise. Donnie and I arenothing more then willing vessels.
The best Christmas gift youcould give the house parents andboys of Big Oak Ranch are yourprayers. If we come to mind,please shoot up a prayer, we canalways use them.
Our love to you all, Donnie & Bitsy
Big Oak RanchA Christian Home For Children Needing A Chance
This ministry was started by John & Tee Croyle 30 years ago. Big OakRanch has been raised up by the Lord to relieve the suffering of children.To break the abuse and neglect cycle of the child. A child is either growingor withering within their heart and spirit. Today approximately 1,500children have been cared for by the ranch. Many have gone on to besuccessful in their adult life.
The national average for houseparents is six months. The average forBig Oak is four years. So we see daily how God has kept his hand on thisministry. You are welcome to visit any time and see first hand how theranch is run. We would love to have you visit. – Bitsy Calloway
Bitsy, Donnie and the “boys.”
Have you ever wonderedwhat to do with some oftoys your grown children
have left behind? How about yourold ornaments and Christmasdecorations? Well here is theperfect gift to make and keep orgive to friends and loved ones toremember their youth. Supplies needed:
• 37 to 52 children’s abc/123wooden blocks.
• 50 to 75 mini-ornaments:snowmen, angels, moose,
bells, trees, teddy bears,snowflakes, birds, small animals,nativity figurines, and any otherminiature ornaments you are ableto find.
• hot glue gun• 8-inch wooden base
Optional supplies:• artificial snow• floral decorations You may choose to spell out
words related to the season orfamily member names.
Place your blocks on the baseand space them out to fit the base.
Begin gluing them in place.
With each layer space theblocks before gluing to insurecorrect spacing.
Decrease the size of every layerto create the illusion of a tree.
You may choose to make yourtree as tall or as short as youdesire.
When you have finishedgluing the blocks then you maystart with your ornaments.
Glue to your hearts contentfilling the “limbs” of the tree withyour little treasures.
Use little “lights” to fill anysmall holes.
You may also use floraldecorations such as “ting ting,”small leaves, small pinecones orany other little items for filler.
Artificial snow may be addedto create the look of a winterwonderland
You may also make the treefor the birth of a new baby withbaby items and not just for theChristmas season.
Enjoy your tree every year orleave out all year long to enjoy theseason every day.
ABC/123 Christmas TreeWith Sabrina Cashion
KC MY
KC MY
Highlands’ Newspaper - Friday, Dec.12, 2003 - Page 19• Police & Fire Report •The following are the Highlands Police Department log entries for
the week of Dec. 3-10. The only names are of public officials and/orpeople who were arrested.
Dec. 3• At 3:30 p.m., officers were called the corner of Fourth and Church streets
to handle a minor automobile accident. There were no injuries.Dec. 4
• At 5:20 p.m., officers were called to N.C. 28 south to handle a minorautomobile accident. There were no injuries.
• Officers responded to an alarm activation at a residence on Many Road.All was secure.
• At 5:50 a.m., officers responded to an alarm at a residence on ManyRoad. All was secure.
Dec. 7• At 11 a.m., officers received a noise complaint from an anonymous per-
son about construction noise at the Old Edwards Inn job site. Police said thecomplaint was unfounded.
• At 11:15 p.m., officers responded to an alarm activation at Mac’s Manor.All was secure.
Dec. 8• At 11:30 a.m., a resident called the dept. to report a lost or stolen cell
phone which was last seen over Thanksgiving.• At 11:30 a.m., a resident reported a verbal confrontation between an-
other party in Highlands Plaza. Police told her the recourse was to presscharges but she chose not to.
Dec. 9• At 7:30 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving 51 mph in a 35 zone.• At 5:30 p.m., officers responded to an alarm activation at a residence on
Many Road. All was secure.Dec. 10
• At 9:10 a.m., officers responded to an alarm activation at The AntiqueShop on Main Street. All was secure..
The following are the Highlands Fire & Rescue Department log en-tries for the weeks of Dec. 3-10.
Dec. 4• The dept. responded to an accident on N.C. 28 south. There were no
injuries. They directed traffic.Dec. 6
• The dept. was first-responders to assist EMS with a medical call at High-lands Meadows where someone fell on ice. They were transported to High-lands-Cashiers Hospital.
• The dept. was first-responders to assist EMS with a medical call on MainStreet where someone had slipped on ice after the parade. There were noinjuries.
Holiday Angels at Peggy CrosbyThe Peggy Crosby Center isproviding Christmas for threesenior ladies through theMacon Program for ProgressHoliday Angel program. Eachof the women live alone andthe Center has promised tomake their Christmas brighterby providing gifts. Theywould like clothing, shoes,personal items, fuel, even giftcertificates to Wal-Mart. If youwould like to contribute totheir Christmas, call for sizesand other information at526-3899
• Florist Tips •
Luke Osteen from The LittleFlower Shop is a hard act to follow when it comes to
discussing holiday decoratingtips.
Our crew at Best of theBunch is notexactlyknown forits wit orhumor, sowe votedto remainseriousbut talkaboutsomethingsure tobring asmile toyour face– fruit.
That’scorrect;we wantyou toconsider using fruit for yourholiday decorations. Those ofyou who visited the HighlandsHistorical Society Show Housethis past weekend were treated towonderful decorations thatincorporated fruit tocomplement the other moretraditional holiday decorations.
Let’s start with a simple yetfragrant decoration we used forthe show house. Take tangerines,oranges or apples and stud themwith fresh whole cloves. Thesecan be placed in a bowl, a basketor hung from a ribbon as apomander to add wonderfulChristmas fragrance to yourroom. Place the clovesrandomly or in a pattern toresemble a Christmas ornament.
Other fruit centered ideasinclude:
• Sugared fruit is a popularholiday option. Simply coatyour choice of fresh fruit inbeaten egg whites and then rollthe fruit in sugar and let dry.The fruit can then be arrangedon a plate, in a basket or on aglass cake stand for a lovelydecoration. One word ofcaution, this is for decorationonly and not to be eaten.
• Holiday sparkle can alsobe added through the use of
commercially availablebeaded fruit. Stop by
the shop and seesome lovely
selections.• To
addfragranceto yourhomesimmer a
crock full of water to whichyou’ve added orange peel, cloves,ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.Your home will smell heavenly.
• Make a colorful and ediblecenterpiece for your holidaytable by filling a bowl withapples, oranges, tangerines,cranberries and whole nutsaccented with cinnamon sticks,pine cones and holly.
• Consider a fruit garlandfor your tree. String thetraditional cranberries or expandto a more exotic mix such askumquats, fresh cranberries andcinnamon sticks.
Happy decorating and HappyHolidays from Kathy, Jan andDebbie at Best of the Bunch!
• Every Friday and Saturdaynight, Cy Timmons sings andplays his guitar at Highlands Wine& Cheese from 7-11 p.m. It’s free.
• Every Saturday night, Arthurand Katie sing and play theirinstruments at Buck’s Coffee Cafe.It’s free.
• The Mountain View group ofAA has added a Wednesdaymeeting to its weekly schedule ofmeetings in the CommunityRoom of FirstPresbyterian Church at 5th andMain Streets. The new lineup:Mondays at 8 p.m.; Tuesdays at5:30 p.m. (women only);Wednesdays and Fridays at noon.For more information, call (800)524-0465.
• The Highlands EmergencyCouncil Raffle has started. Ticketsare $1 each or $6 for $5. The raffleis for a $250 gift card from Wal-Mart and a $100 gas card fromD&J Express Mart. The drawing isDec. 18. Tickets are available at theHEC office on Poplar Street.
Dec. 13 & 14• Santa will be hearing wish lists
and posing for photos in Oak Squareon Main Street Saturday after theparade.
Dec. 12 & 13• The North Georgia
Community Players will present“Miracle on 34th Street,” onFriday Dec. 12 at 7 p.m, Sat., Dec.13 at 3 p.m. & 7 p.m,. and on Sun,Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. at the ReardonTheater on the campus on theRabun Gap -Nacoochee SchoolTickets are $10 for adults and $7for children. For information orreservations: (706) 212-2500.
Dec. 13• The Highlands Community
Christian Chorale will present itsannual Christmas Concert at 4p.m. at the First PresbyterianChurch. A reception will follow. Anursery will be provided.
• There will be a benefit forRalph Owens who suffered a
Skillsaw accident at 5 p.m. at theSatolah Fire Dept. There will belive music, barbecue and a raffle.For more information, call 536-4550.
Dec. 14• The Highlands Community
Christian Chorale will present itsannual Christmas Concert at 7p.m. at the First PresbyterianCnurch. A reception will follow. Anursery will be provided.
Annual chorale to perform at First Pres.
The Highlands Community Christian Chorale will present itsannual Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. andSunday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Cnurch. Anursery will be provided.
• On Sunday, December 14,2003, 10:45 & 6 p.m., Rev. RussellWard, an evangelist with theChurch of God, will be minister-ing at the Scaly Mountain Churchof God. He and his wife, Naomihave ministered in Germany,Panama and Tennessee and nowevangelize across America. Youwill be blessed by their ministryin the Word and in music.
• The Chancel Choir of High-lands United Methodist Churchwill present its Christmas Cantata,"Let Heaven and Nature Sing," on
Sunday, during the 11:00 worshipservice. All are welcome to attend.
Dec. 15• The Annual Christmas Bird
Count on Monday, December 15, willbe the final activity of the HighlandsPlateau Audubon Society for 2003.
Dec. 17• The Children of Highlands
United Methodist Church willpresent "Sound the Bells: TheSavior's Born" on Wednesday, at
6:15 p.m. in the sanctuary and isa musical drama. Supper is servedat 5:30 p.m. and a reservation isneeded by Monday, Dec. 15 at 4p.m. (526-3376). All are welcometo attend.
Dec. 18• Senior Citizen Luncheon at
the Rec Park at noon. It’s free butdonations are accepted.
Dec. 19• The Children of Highlands
United Methodist Church willhave a "Birthday Party for Jesus"on Friday, from 8:30-10:30 a.m.,
it will include breakfast, birthdaycake, games, crafts and more.Reservations are helpful. IfHighlands School has a snowmake up day on that date, it willbe postponed until Sundaymorning, Dec. 21 at 9:30 a.m.
• The speaker for theHighlands Mountaintop RotaryClub will be Kaye Gorecki,executive director of the Bascom-Louise Gallery. The club meetsdownstairs in the back of the FirstBaptist Church of Highlands.Visitors are welcome.
Dec. 24• Highlands United Methodist
Church Christmas Eve Service willbe held at 5:30 p.m. It is a family-friendly service including HolyCommunion and Candlelight.Everyone is invited.
• The Hudson Library will beclosed December 24-26 and theBookworm will be closedDecember 24 through January 2in observance of the HolidaySeason.
Dec. 25• The third annual Christmas
Day Buffet benefiting Habitat forHumanity is at the Main StreetInn. Seating begins at noon.Dinner buffet includes, bakedham, roasted turkey, sweet andmashed potatoes, dressing,assorted vegetables, desserts, ice orhot tea or coffee. Wine availableby the glass or bottle. The cost is$24.95 per person. MasterCard,Visa or American Express accepted.Call 526-2590 for reservations.Seating is limited.
Dec. 26• The Highlands Mountaintop
Rotary Club will hold a holidaymeeting with fellowship and acontinental breakfast. No speakeris scheduled. Guests are welcome.
Jan. 2• The Highlands Mountaintop
Rotary Club will hold its regularbreakfast meeting with continen-tal fare and fellowship.
