Clark County Press, Neillsville, WI

April 21, 2010, Page 4

Transcribed by Dolores Mohr Kenyon 

The Highground holds first Legacy Ceremony of season

Veteran Jackie Bertotto had the honor of ?Harvesting the Earth? (preparing for the placement of stone for The Highground?s first Legacy Stone ceremony.  Bertotto also received his own stone to place Saturday, April 17, from his family.  (Contributed Photo)

Saturday, April 17, the year?s first stone placement took place at The Highground.  Wind blew and the sun shone for a wonderful event.  Many families enjoyed the surroundings and the day?s event.

Veteran Jackie Bertotto had the honors of ?Harvesting the Earth? for this first ceremony and received his own stone to place from his family.

The Highground has a tradition, which has been passed on since the first legacy stone ceremony began. In a vial, the earth from the previous stone ceremony has been saved.  It is sprinkled where the new stones are going to be laid and then more earth is harvested in the vial for the next ceremony.  This forms a connection between all the stone ceremonies.  During the talking circle, the microphone is passed from person to person. Attached to the microphone is this vial.  Whether the person speaks or remains silent, the vial of earth is touched.  This vial symbolically holds the words and feelings from the day and is the connection between those attending and those who follow in future ceremonies.

Stone Placement Ceremonies are scheduled each month through October.  Contact The Highground at 715-743-4224 for more information.