Mountain Living - February 2014
Winter in the Mountains - Snow everywhere!
Happy February, everyone:
As I write this there is perhaps 2-3 inches of wet snow on the ground with the forecast of another 4-6 inches over the next two days. Such is the season of winter in western North Carolina. You just have to plan ahead and hunker down for the duration. It has made for a very pretty scene in the community and I hope someone submits some pictures to Ron Brunsvold through the website.
We have again tried to stay ahead of the winter conditions by salting and sanding the roads in anticipation of the snow and ice and scraping when necessary. Our contractor, A&A, has done an excellent job in keeping the roads clear. However, as previously stated, nothing substitutes for advanced planning and prudent judgment when driving on wintery roads.
At our Board meeting this month, the Board approved a proposal submitted by Alford Engineering, RLLP, of Maggie Valley to remediate the slide condition on Montrose Lane. Alford will engineer and design the necessary repairs using a process called a “Terramesh Wall” to shore up the slide area and stabilize the bank and the roadbed. Construction will begin in early spring and take about 30-60 days, assuming unforeseen issues are not encountered. The process of soliciting bids and vetting construction firms has been an arduous process and the Association owes a debt of gratitude to Board members Buck Williams and George Patrick for their efforts.
Over the last several weeks we have seen the last of the two existing homes for sale in Junaluska Highlands be sold. Additionally, we presently have two homes under construction that should be completed sometime this year. I am also receiving calls from real estate professionals and potential lot buyers seeking information about building and living in Junaluska Highlands. I view all of this as a positive reflection on the value of our community and a sign the economy is headed in the right direction.
Earlier this month, about 14 of our residents and friends attended “1964 The Tribute” at Western Carolina University at Cullowhee, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the Beatles in the USA. Our social committee chairperson, Kathy Bell, organized a very nice outing that included lunch before the concert and we all enjoyed a walk down memory lane back to the Sunday night the Beatles appeared on the Ed Sullivan show for the first time. Thanks, Kathy!
Thanks all for now. Everyone stay warm and think about the prospects of warmer weather this spring.
Mac









