Murphy – The third annual Mannequin in the Window on Dec. 21 had some folks wondering if their eyes were deceiving them.
Anngee Quinones-Belian, a Cherokee Scout correspondent and humor columnist, climbed into a downtown storefront window bringing Mylie Sparks, a Murphy police officer, with her.
The goal was to remain as motionless as a real mannequin. Deni Graves welcomed the Christmas display, which was intended to bring joy to those passing by Marketplace Antiques downtown.
As one might expect, a few folks couldn’t resist the urge to try and get the pair to move, including Mayor Tim Radford. Radford even went to the trouble of making large flash cards with silly messages that he placed against the window in front of their faces.
One sign read: “Officer Sparks, is this your new method of patrolling the beat?” Another one read, “Mannequins: You have the right to remain silent!”
Other folks jumped up and down in front of the ladies as well as waving, wearing big hats and displaying other stunts meant to distract the two living mannequins.
Although looking was free, a donation box was placed by the window accepting tips that would then be donated to Shop With a Cop. The program helps children receive a few extra Christmas gifts.
“We were walking the quaint little town of Murphy when we came across a window display with live mannequins in the window of the antique shop. What a wonderful idea,” said Darlene Ramsey, a new resident of Hiwassee Dam.
The women raised $117 for Shop With a Cop, while bringing smiles to the faces of Christmas shoppers.