Proud to see ‘Facing death’
I am very proud of Abigail Batton’s “Facing death” article in the Nov. 2 edition of the Cherokee Scout.
Most people are unaware of the immediate processes that occur after a loved one has died, as well as decisions that must be made. Many are also unaware of North Carolina’s laws concerning the remains of a loved one, and I encourage people to do research in that area.
It’s always good to have a plan for those “what if’s” because it’s no secret that everyone will eventually die. It’s better to be financially prepared and more importantly, spiritually prepared, for that unknown time when we will “give up the ghost.”
Holly Mashburn, Culberson
Thankful for your choice
Seth Malin Plumbing would like to say a big thank you to our community, county and state for allowing us to serve your plumbing needs.
Your vote of confidence means so much.
We would also like to thank David Brown and the Cherokee Scout for supporting local businesses and promoting positivity.
Seth and Emily Malin, Seth Malin Plumbing, Andrews
Jefferson made fries
This letter was addressed to Publisher David Brown about a previous column.
The origin of french fries came to these shores through Thomas Jefferson, according to house notes archived in Virginia at Monticello.
Jefferson returned to America from France with a recipe for ‘pommes de terre a cru petites tranches, which essentially is translated to “earth apples (potatoes) deep fried and cut into small pieces. These are arguably the earliest American reference to this now commonplace food.
The recipe is from the cookbook of Mary Randolph titled The Virginia Housewife. Randolph was one of Jefferson’s relatives. Though cut as rounds the potatoes are otherwise identical to what we call french fries.
Jefferson is to be thanked for several popular foods in American culture, ice cream, macaroni and cheese, and, of course, french fries.
Steven McKnight, Murphy
Publisher’s note: Thanks for the tasty history lesson!
Grateful to area good Samaritan
On Oct. 27, while shopping at Walmart, I lost part of my wedding ring set that had diamonds and rubies in it. I was extremely upset when I realized it was missing after I got home.
After an intense search through my grocery bags, car and purse, I called Walmart in hopes someone found it and turned it in.
You, a good Samaritan, did just that. Words cannot describe how elated I was.
You see, I had recently, and suddenly, lost my husband, and our 28th anniversary was on Nov. 5. The thought of losing part of my wedding set was devastating.
Your act of honesty and kindness has touched my heart beyond measure. I have prayed that God shower you with His blessings. From the depths of my heart, thank you.
Darlene Masone, Murphy
Contribute to local history
I’m an author, historian and educator. My third book, tentatively titled The Biggs Machine, will be the first of two volumes.
It chronicles the rise of the political machine of former Polk County sheriff Burch Biggs. In 1948, after 18 years in power, he was overthrown by the Good Government League, led by R.E. “Bob” Barclay, a historian and Tennessee Copper Co. executive.
I have thoroughly researched this topic for almost three years. Aside from more interviews, my research is basically finished. I have read every news article, court transcript and public document on the topic. I have visited every library and museum, and spoken with every historian in the region.
I have interviewed several people from “both sides” who lived through this era or shared stories passed down. Some people have even shared their relative’s journals, diaries and oral interview recordings. I have separated fact from fiction when it comes to several episodes of election fraud, graft and unjustified killings by deputies in this story.
My goal is to tell this story as objectively as possible in a single source for the historical record. I am not printing rumors, and I always verify everything in interviews with credible
individuals.
I have written nearly 100,000 words in my manuscript and am preparing to sign with a publisher. To ensure a summer 2023 publication date, I must finish this year. I still have time to include your family’s stories.
If any of you had relatives who were in the GGL and told you about this era, I would love to hear them. I also want to reach out to those who had relatives who were associated Burch Biggs. I want to give everyone a chance to tell their side of the story.
My email is tboyd5150@gmail.com. I am also available on Facebook.
Tyler Boyd, Athens, Tenn.
No more ‘what ifs’
In a person’s life, there are many “what ifs” that we daily deal with. What if I can’t measure up to my peers at work? What if I can’t find the right job to support my family? What if I can’t be the husband I should be to my wife and kids? What if I worry and stress out about what lies ahead for me?
These questions are the trials and challenges we all face daily, but there is One who can come to our aid in times of trouble. His name is Jesus Christ. He came and died on a cross so all your “what ifs” could become victorious whatever is ahead of you.
Get connected to who Jesus Christ really is in your life, and what He wants to do in and through you by the power of the Holy Spirit, which is only possible when you receive Christ as your Savior and Lord. When you let the Holy Spirit guide and encourage you with the truth of God’s word, then all of your what ifs will disappear, and you will have the comfort and peace knowing that God has given you the best eternal friend named Jesus Christ.
Folks, don’t walk this life doing what you think is right, and end up on your death bed looking upward to the only source of eternal life that only comes when you accept Jesus Christ into your mind and heart.
Many a folk have gone out into eternity to a life that will be totally separated from their Creator God, but it doesn’t have to be this way. If only you believe upon the name of Jesus Christ, the Bible tells us you will be saved and headed to heaven when you depart from this old sinful world.
Frank Combs, Blairsville, Ga.
Always joy to read in Scout
This letter was addressed to Staff Correspondent Abigail Blythe Batton.
Thank you for landing in Murphy. I hope Publisher David Brown realizes his “gain” from having a new voice and style for the Cherokee Scout.
I enjoyed how you opened your article on death with an Emily Dickenson quote.
The line “the interstitial space between the two is just a blink, a gossamer secret” resonated as I just returned from a funeral for my brother-in-law. I smiled a bit later when I realized you were writing about the local funeral homes.
Your “From the Front Porch” is always a joy to read, and it seems you always leave the readers who actually “think” a nugget or morsel to contemplate afterward. This week was no exception.
I am learning how insular a small town can be, and learning to navigate without stepping on toes or getting ostracized outright. The beauty of having Joy Lynn as a friend is “priceless,” I am sure.
Keep up the great writing, and I truly enjoy your “moxie.”
Frank Stapleton, Murphy