Everyone likes to think back to the “good ole days.”
And for many, those times signal back to childhood when life was simple and the day-to-day grind of work, family, and commitments was some far-off ideal.
For many of us as we age, we like to think that the way we had it was the “best” of times – Riding bikes around the neighborhood, playing backyard football, building forts, etc. and there is probably some truth in that logic.
But kids today have it pretty good too, and thanks to a number of organizations working hard to better the lives of children in Highlands and Cashiers, their era is looking up.
Last week the Macon County board of commissioners voted to appropriate roughly $200,000 so that students at Highlands School, and Franklin High School, can enjoy a hot lunch at no charge. The other schools in the district already qualified for 100 percent free lunch.
Jackson County made a similar commitment earlier in the summer, meaning all school age children in both counties are able to get free lunch. Not worrying about whether or not you are going to eat that day is sure to make school less stressful for students in need, and that’s a positive for everyone.
In both Highlands and Cashiers, the final push is underway to fund a pair of new playgrounds. The Village Green is in the process of updating the always-popular “Village Play” area and is ready to start construction on several additions and upgrades in October. Workdays are scheduled for Sept. 21 and Sept. 28 to remove some fencing and relocate some elements of the play area before the contractor can begin work. Volunteers, and/or potential donors, should contact Ashlie Mitchell at 828-743-3434 for more information.
The Town of Highlands is working to reach the finish line of its fundraising effort to create a new all-inclusive playground at the Rec Park to replace the current facilities. Having a new and improved playground, that has elements for all ages and ability levels, will be a big asset for parents and grandparents. To donate to the Highlands playground project, call town hall at 828-526-2118.