Development Center Offers Adventure
Helping kids grow strong and brave
Barrel Racing With the Best Clinton Teen Makes It to World Championships
Starlight, Star Bright, First Star I See Tonight Stargazing at Norris Dam
Let’s Get Ready to Rumble Students Gear Up For Football Season
August 2014
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August 2014
POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND AUTHORIZED BY THE CANDIDATE
t Re-Elec TIM
SHELTON REGISTER OF DEEDS
PRESS RELEASE: Tim Shelton, Register of Deeds, Announces Results of Internal Audit The Anderson County Register of Deeds office has concluded an internal audit of all revenues and expenditures dating back to 2002, the year that current Register of Deeds Tim Shelton first took office. The results appear to refute the claims made by opposition candidate Bill Gallaher -- that the office is operating in the red. According to the audit results, the Register of Deeds office has generated a surplus of $546,286.00 dollars over the past 12 years with revenues coming in at $3,661,700.00 and expenditures totaling $3,115,700.00 dollars for the same time period. “I felt it important to provide this information to the public so that the confidence which our citizens have in the Register of Deeds office could be validated.” stated Shelton. “We went receipt by receipt totaling every revenue and expenditure since I took office, double and triple checking to ensure that nothing was missed.” The controversy of fees began a few weeks ago when a mail piece was sent out by Bill Gallaher, who is opposing current Register of Deeds Tim Shelton in the August General Election. Shelton disputed the accusations during two joint appearances by both men last week, one on radio and the other at a public forum in Oak Ridge. Shelton stated he was actually surprised by the mail piece when he first was made aware of it. “When the mailout was first brought to my attention, I honestly thought someone was just playing a joke. But when I saw it for myself I felt I had a responsibility to set the record straight. I have managed this office with the utmost of integrity and to have it questioned demanded that I respond by conducting an audit of the office’s revenues and expenditures,” he said. The audit results included receipts from both the Register of Deeds office and the Accounts and Budget office of Anderson County. These records are subject to the Public Records Act of Tennessee and can be obtained by making a Public Records Request through either office. Shelton concluded his remarks by addressing his opponent’s most recent ad and mail piece: “Fuzzy math is usually fuzzy for a reason. In this case, the fuzzy math my opponent is using is intended to serve as a smear tactic with the hopes of negatively misleading voters. Hopefully this most recent audit report will clarify the truth for Anderson County voters.”
August 2014
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From the Editor
O
ur August edition has inadvertently become our “back to school” edition, as the majority of our stories focus on students and school programs. From high school students competing in the Barrel Racing World Championship to programs dedicated to getting kids active and outdoors, it’s clear that our community rallies behind our kids. That’s something to be proud of! We would like to improve our calendar section, so if you have an event you would like listed in future editions, please send us an email. I know there are plenty of things going on, so keep us in the loop! We will include anything from church events and community picnics to school plays and concerts. As a community magazine, we rely on your input, story ideas and submissions. Occasionally, we get our facts mixed up (like a story in the March edition that said the Clinton High band was participating in a competition when, in fact, they weren’t. Don’t ask...), but we do our absolute best to bring you relevant, interesting, local news. Connect with us on Facebook or pick up the phone and give us a call if you would like to discuss any of our stories. If you would like to contribute a story or photos, simply send me an email (below) or call (865) 2090313. If you would like to advertise in Clinton Life, email the same address or call (865) 235-9213. Since we are locally owned and operated, if you would like to meet in person, we’re just around the corner.
Crystal Huskey
clintonlife@outlook.com
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August June 20142014
July 2014
Editorial Crystal Huskey, Editor, Creative Director Shannon Cook, Contributing writer Yvonne Hart, Contributing writer Megan Duncan, Contributing writer Joy Winchester, Contributing writer Sharon Fox, Contributing writer Stacy Pratt, Contributing writer Stephanie Strutner, Contributing writer Roger Lane, Contributing photographer Noah Frere, Contributing photographer Shari Bryant, Contributing photographer Emily Sutherlin, Copy Editor
Advertising Paul Huskey, Sales and marketing
Printing and Distribution Century Publishing 5710 E. Seltice Way Post Falls, ID 83854
Production HUSKEY MEDIA
P.O. Box 1003 CLINTON TN 37717 Tel: 865.209.0313 Email: clintonlife@outlook.com
In This Issue: 07 Andersonville Elementary Recognized for Improved Scores 14 Personal Growth Through Adventures 18 Clinton Teen Barrel Races With the Best 21 Let’s Get Ready to Rumble!
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Photo courtesy of Anderson County Schools
24 Reach for the Stars at Norris Dam
Departments 04
From The Editor
07
Around Town
23
Gotta Go!
27
Event Calendar
30
And Another Thing ....
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On the Cover
Photo courtesy of Megan Duncan
Photo by Crystal Huskey
Beau Crisp, upcoming Junior at Clinton High School, catches the ball during the 2014 pre-season. Crisp made the catch during the 7 on 7 against Bearden High. For more photos of the pre-season, flip to page 21. Photo by Shari Bryant
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Photo by Noah Frere
clintonlife@outlook.com Interested in advertising? Call our sales representative today! Paul Huskey
(865) 235-9213
paulrhuskey@outlook.com August 2014
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AROUND TOWN Andersonville Elementary Recognized for Improved Test Scores
A by Bob Fowler
ndersonville Elementary is on a fast track for learning improvement and is making the grade. So say officials with the nonprofit Education Consumers Foundation, which paid tribute to the teachers, students and administrators in an awards recognition ceremony. The school, with 348 students in preschool through 5th grade, has zoomed to the top level in terms of improvements on students’ Tennessee Comprehensive The staff at Andersonville Elementary, including Ms. Beth Roeder, top Assessment Program (TCAP) scores. left, received recognition for improving its TCAP scores. Andersonville Elementary ranks fourth in Photo courtesy of Anderson County Schools the state among 765 elementary schools in annual gains in achievement as measured by the state’s Valued-Added Assessment System according to Annie Miller, awards coordinator for the nonprofit. “When we come back here next year, maybe you’ll be in first place instead of fourth,” said Miller, who handed principal Beth Roeder 8 $1,000 check on behalf of the school. Eighteen elementary and middle schools in Tennessee received the Value-Added Achievement Awards from the nonprofit this year. Andersonville was the only school recognized in the Knoxville metropolitan region. The reason for the improvement at Andersonville Elementary, according Roeder, is that “we have teachers come in early. and we have teachers stay late.” Those educators, she said, also support one another. “They’re making students aware of how important an education is.” Students in other schools may have higher TCAP test scores, said Greg Deal, deputy director for instruction for the Anderson County School System, but “we’re catching up faster.” Five of the county’s nine elementary schools get “A” grades in terms of TCAP Score improvements when the periods 2009-2011 are compared to the latest statistics for school years 2011-2013, he added. That’s important for teachers as well, according to Anderson County Schools Director Larry Foster, because teacher evaluations are ·based in part on the Value Added Assessments. Deal said Andersonville Elementary is often his first stop in the morning, and students are immersed in learning activities “as soon as they get off the bus.”
August 2014
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TIM SHELTON’S EXPERIENCE? CAN WE AFFORD ANOTHER FOUR YEARS? REGISTER OF DEEDS OFFICE
TAXPAYER REPORT CARD *Spending
? ? ?
been Why has the Register of Deeds office e years allowed to operate for five consecutiv ding spen cit defi with ) 2013 gh throu (2009 totaling more than $350,000?
*Productivity
work a 35 hour Why were the employees allowed to was operating ce Offi the years ve fi all for week work in the deficit?
*Payroll
al payroll of Why did the Office maintain a cleric revenues more than $179,000 per year while were plunging?
the Anderson County Accounts and Budget Office. *Revenues and Expenditure information provided by
ANDERSON COUNTY TAXPAYERS KEEP BAILING OUT THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OFFICE ... YEAR ... AFTER YEAR ... AFTER YEAR! 2009 ($52,211.34) 2010 ($91,026.93) 2011 ($91,620.12) 2012 ($84,783.07) 2013 ($35,465.61)
Bill Gallaher will get the Register of Deeds Office out of the red and take the burden of financing the office off the taxpayers back. He will balance revenues and expenditures and mandate a forty hour work week.
Elect
BRegister ill Gallaher of Deeds Paid for by Bill Gallaher for Register of Deeds, John E. Stair, Treasurer
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August 2014
COMMUNITY Merle Norman Celebrates 25 Years in Clinton by Sharon Fox
The Merle Norman staff celebrated 25 years of serving Clinton Front left is Michele Collins; front right is Sharon Fox. Photo by Paul Huskey
July 1, 1989 was the beginning of a 25-year adventure Michele Collins and I, Sharon Fox, embarked on. Because Michele and I were a mother and daughter team, Merle Norman allowed Michele to attend training at the age of 15 years old. We were off to Los Angeles for a fast two weeks of training. The enthusiasm and energy took over quickly. We updated the studio and incorporated what we had learned. Little did we know that 25 years later we would still operate this thriving business. One of the beautiful things that has developed in our studio is that it has become a very social place. This is all because of our customers. Friends meet with friends while receiving manicures and pedicures and wedding parties take over the studio with their hair styling, tanning and nail services. We’re always excited to be a part of these special events in a customer’s life. Our studio was recently given a “sales achievement” award by our home office. We were one of three studios selected by them in the entire United States. Our home office likes to secretly shop each studio -- it keeps all of us on our toes! Since the beginning of this program, we have repeatedly received a perfect score. We are home grown and our products are made in America! To visit our studio, stop by 289 S Charles G Seivers Blvd. or call (865) 457-3624.
August 2014
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ADVICE The Challenge of Change by Yvonne Hart Community contributor You may have heard of the illustration of the circus trapeze artist who never moves forward until she lets go of one swing and flies to another. As a coach, I work with people who hold on to a familiar job or secure leadership position and never let go. These people have stopped moving forward. It is more secure to hold on and avoid risks. Some leaders, heads of organizations, long-term leaders, or others hold on because they don’t want to lose the power, control or prestige of their present positions. Some are afraid they might never find another fulfilling role so they hold on to what they have. Some fear their visions will fade or their work might be undermined if another person takes over. Often we get stuck, unsure of which direction to follow. There are
situations where change is not on the horizon and we must imagine what it would be like to make peace with our circumstances and move on. That may require exploring the idea of changing your expectations rather than changing the situation. This too can free you from feeling trapped. If you’ve been settling for less or just coping, begin to imagine a future where an unfavorable circumstance is totally eliminated. What would that look like? What would change? Be specific as you begin to list dreams and ideas. This exercise can help you identify underlying needs which can lead to an adjustment providing your need in another arena of your life. An example of that would be someone who doesn’t feel their current job gives them an outlet for helping others. This person may find a volunteer position where he can not only help others, but also have his need met. This type of adjustment allows him to return
to what once seemed like a boring job with an energizing new perspective. Even if you take all the right steps and follow the best advice, undergoing change creates stress in your life and stress takes energy. Compensate by taking special care of your body. Think of a chick inside the egg: he slowly grows too big for the very safe environment that has nurtured him. He is still weak, but slowly breaks away, pecking at his confinement. The chick is forcing change, but he is also gaining strength as he goes. We live in a world where the only constant is change. Yvonne Hart’s certification in coaching brought added to her life journey has uniquely equipped her to help those at the particular junction of mid-life. She helps with assessments and tools tapping into your best qualities. Her skilled coaching process inspires a vision toward success. Contact her via AFocusedPurpose.com.
Anderson County HeAltHCAre enrollment Center Visit our office to learn about policies starting at less than $10 a month! or Call (865) 806-5837 A&W Plaza 301 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Suite E (Across the street from Patterson’s Appliance)
www.urlocalAgent.com Career Opportunities Available!
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August 2014
COMMUNITY Using Nature as Healer at Erin’s Meadow by Kathy Burke
vitality, and wellness. Visit Melanie online: 611lifestylemgmt.com
August 16, Saturday 10:30 - noon Herbs for Brain Health Optimize your brain health with a daily dose of herbs! Learn which herbs can support memory and even slow the loss of cognitive function. Did you know herbal teas can protect the brain, improve circulation and fight mental fatigue? Instructor Melanie Duncan will discuss fruits, leafy greens, and other vegetables that as a part of our daily diet can help keep the brain healthy and productive.Students will enjoy sampling, and take home an informative handout. Duncan is an ACE Certified Health Coach. Her business, 6-11 Lifestyle Management, promotes a holistic approach to health and life. Melanie’s focus on nutrition and fitness helps clients discover a lifestyle of health,
August 23, Saturday 10:30- noon Pass the Pesto Please! Come enjoy the fresh herbal harvest from our gardens. Your taste buds will have a blast! On the menu: Traditional pasta with pesto; Grilled chicken with mixed herb pesto; Citrus pesto with pita chips. Instructor Janet Powell is a culinary educator who has been teaching cooking and wellness classes in the Knoxville area for over 20 years. She has a passion for creating healthy, delicious dishes with fresh herbs and vegetables just picked from her garden.
Community contributor
August 30, Saturday 10:30-noon Herbs for First Aid - Home Remedies for Minor Illness or Injury Cuts and scrapes, tummy troubles, and sore throats can be made all better
with a visit to the herb garden or kitchen cabinet. These natural alternatives to drug store products have been mending families for hundreds of years! Learn the best herbs to grow and use; and how to turn them into healing teas, soaks, salves and compresses. Students will enjoy herbal medicine making demonstrations, sampling, and take home an informative handout. Instructor Kathy E. Burke Mihalczo is the owner of Erin’s Meadow Herb Farm. Kathy has presented herbal programs and classes for many organization in East Tennessee, and in Memphis for the Memphis Botanic Gardens. She is a regular contributor on WTNZ-TV “Mornings with Fox 43”. Tune in to watch her segments every Monday morning. Visit erinsmeadowherbfarm.com for prices and a full list of future classes, as well as specials and other events.
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ASK THE EXPERT... Keep Going: Maintaining Your Weight Loss for Life Fitness instructor Joy Winchester made the decision to get fit and healthy. She now shares her passion for fitness with her clients at Take Charge Fitness. by Joy Winchester Community contributor shown that most people who “keep the weight off” only lose 1-2 pounds a week rather than losing too much weight too fast. At the seven-month mark I was down 40 lbs. and feeling great! I had more confidence, more dates, and finally discovered my true passion: fitness. Today I’ve lost a total of 52 lbs and am in the best shape of my life! But maintaining weight loss hasn’t been an easy task.
Never give up
Joy Winchester, left, with Dwayne Wilkerson, the wonner of the 2014 Thin It to Win It Challenge. Photo by Crystal Huskey
Congratulations! Your hard work has paid off. You have achieved your ideal body weight after spending countless hours at the gym and swapping the burgers and fries for grilled salmon and steamed veggies. The hard part is over, right? Think again! While the initial battle of weight loss is a tough challenge in itself, maintaining your goal weight won’t be a walk in the park either.
Making a change
My whole life I had been obese. I remember weighing 117 lbs. when I was just 9 years old. Being the “fat kid” was never fun, so I was definitely ready to make this transformation. Six years ago, I decided to make a healthier change in my lifestyle. I started exercising 5-6 days a week and quit eating anything fried, salty, or sugary. After three months, I had only lost 15 lbs. But, I wasn’t going to give up. Studies have
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Studies have shown that 1 out of 6 people who have lost at least 40 pounds will gain at least all their weight back if not more within one year (ACSM). So how do we prevent this travesty from happening to us? Well, first of all you have to decide if your new lifestyle is something you want to maintain or not. Once people reach their goal weight, they tend to slack off on their diet, exercise, or both – which will definitely cause the scale to budge in the wrong direction! Now, this doesn’t mean you have to ban yourself from ice cream for life or spend every minute of your free time exercising. There is always a happy medium. Not-so-healthy treats should be enjoyed in moderation. To keep your workouts exciting, you may want to try out a group exercise class or even have a personal trainer give you some new workout ideas. Because our bodies will adapt to our current exercise routine, it is very important to change it up every once in a while. The healthier, happier you can be maintained for the rest of your life. All you need is to maintain the determination and motivation that got you this far. We all tend to fall into “slumps” or have unexpected events that come up in life, but taking care of you should be your main priority. Joy is a fitness instructor at the Take Charge Fitness Program. She graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in Exercise Science and continues to use her personal experience to inspire others to reach their fitness goals. Feel free to contact the Take Charge Fitness Program at Clinton Physical Therapy Center at 457-8237 to start your healthier lifestyle change or to help maintain what you’ve worked so hard on to accomplish!
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I
Life Development Center Creates Personal Growth, Offers Adventure
by Megan Duncan Community contributor
t’s okay to be scared; this is scary stuff! But
it’s not okay to let that fear decide what you can and cannot do.� I cannot begin to count the number of times these words have left my mouth in the past year that I have served as the director of the Life Development Center, or, as we call it, the LDC. More than 1,500 people, both children and adults, have passed through the gates of the LDC in the past 12 months, hopefully all challenged and changed for the better. Located on Old Edgemoor Road and boasting both low-ropes and high-ropes courses, the LDC has a rich history of challenging people to do more, do better and change their own lives. More precisely,
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the Life Development Center, as it exists today, has two histories that merge to create an entity with an incredible and undeniable impact on our community. In the 1980s, the Life Development Center was a brand new facility, supported by the Anderson County Health Council and an important part of the Anderson County community. Working closely with several area hospitals and rehabilitation centers, the LDC enhanced treatments for patients participating in drug and alcohol rehabilitation. The LDC further impacted the community by facilitating programs that helped businesses, church groups, school groups and Scout troops strengthen communication, teamwork and leadership skills. It was a beautiful facility that touched
the lives of many adults in the community through its creative and innovative programs. But this was just the beginning. It wasn’t long before the LDC began implementing a program so innovative, it even caught Washington D.C.’s attention. In 1982, David Campbell, a Clinton Jr. High School guidance counselor, joined the fight to end drug use among young people when he established the first and only Wilderness Experience Program (WEP) in Anderson County. The basic premise of the program was simple, yet amazingly effective: students in trouble with drugs were taken on a three-day wilderness trip to learn skills such as positive risk-taking, problem solving and communication. The wilderness trip allowed students the opportunity to leave distractions (both positive and negative) behind and give uninterrupted thought to where their life choices might take them. The program was so successful it caught the attention of Washington D.C.’s anti-drug campaign and President Reagan himself, as Campbell and Harold Heath, Clinton Junior High’s principal, had the opportunity to dine with a small group of antidrug leaders and the President. The Wilderness Experience Program was highlighted at that dinner and was selected for discussion for the upcoming National Education Association convention in 1987. As the years passed, the Wilderness Experience Program became an important part of the Anderson County Health Council and the Life Development Center, helping countless numbers of teenagers change their lives for the better. Over time, the Wilderness Experience Program continued to evolve
and was eventually renamed ACSESS: Breakaway, an adventure counseling experience for area high school students. Transitioning from a simple three-day, twonight backpacking trip to a full-scale 10-week course, ACSESS: Breakaway focuses on outdoor skills as well as important life skills, such as anger management, conflict resolution and communication. In 2010, the Anderson County Health Council dissolved, but strongly desired to continue its most successful programs, including ACSESS: Breakaway. Fortunately, Anderson County Schools answered the call and agreed to assume responsibility for the Life Development Center and its programs. It was a partnership that ensured a bright future for a facility with a rich past. In 2013, with a new staff, the Life Development Center began projecting a new image. While ACSESS: Breakaway and other interventional programs for specific students remain the focus of the LDC, the facility also serves the entire Anderson County student population, as well as neighboring counties. For example, in the fall of 2013, all Anderson County eighth-graders attended a ropes course program specially designed to prepare these students for high school and beyond. Throughout the course, students focused on effective communication, risk-taking and goal-setting- skills they will use for the rest of their lives. Additionally, over 200 Union County eighth graders were afforded the same opportunity in the spring of 2014. Throughout the school year, large numbers of school groups, such as the FFA, have participated in uniquely designed ropes course programs as well.
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Even now, as a facility of Anderson County Schools, the Life Development Center has remained one of Anderson County’s best-kept secrets. Relatively few citizens of our county are even aware of its existence. And many people who have heard of it remember it strictly as a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility, meant for a specific demographic. What most people find surprising is this: the Life
their employees are working more effectively as well as more productively. Local churches have found it beneficial to draw parallels between an adventure activity and spiritual concepts discussed within their congregation. Here’s the even more surprising part: it all just feels like fun, games and adrenaline.
“The Life Development Center is not only for school students. It exists to serve the entire community, including businesses, churches, Scout troops and families.” So, how do these activities work so effectively to teach both children and adults seemingly difficult skills? The answer is simple psychology. Most people in the world learn by doing - the more we move, the more we learn. At the Life Development Center, we harness the power of movement and couple it with oral teaching (debriefs after games) and critical thinking (discussions). As a result, we have a strong foundation on which to build important, life-changing skills, such as communicating well and solving problems as a group, helping participants to understand, “It’s okay to be scared; this is scary stuff! But it’s not okay to let that fear decide what you can and cannot do.” From hosting the Secret City Mud Run to working closely with UT Extension to offer classes and information, the Life Development Center is committed to being an integral part of the Anderson County community. Our desire is to see everyone who takes part in a program or event at the LDC leaves with a smile on his or her face and different perspective on life. My year at the Life Development Center has done this for me- allowing me to Learn about myself, Develop new skills and Challenge my comfortable ways of thinking.
Development Center is not only for school students. It exists to serve the entire community, including businesses, churches, Scout troops and families. From ropes course birthday parties to uniquely designed climbing trips, everyone can benefit from the Life Development Center. Even when a family comes for a “just-for-fun” event, such as a birthday party, they often leave with increased confidence, better communication and increased satisfaction in themselves and their abilities- all without trying. Businesses that come together and complete a ropes course or adventure program often write back after the event reporting
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On the back of one of our T-shirts at the LDC, we have a quote by the late author, Henry Miller: “One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” As people on their own life journey make a stop at the Life Development Center, we hope that they are one step closer to that destination: seeing life differently, in a new light, in a new way. Through fun, hands-on, active learning, the Life Development Center is helping those in Anderson County and beyond see life in a new way. For more information, call (865) 2001790.
Page 14-15: A backpacking adventure trip with high school students in Big South Fork. Left page: Students participating in our Adventure: Summer Camps on a hike at Frozen Head State Park. Right page, top right: Students participating in a team-building program climbing on our Vertical Playpen. Center: A student completing the Catwalk element. Bottom: Student on a climbing adventure with the LDC staff on Walden’s Ridge. All photos courtesy of Megan Duncan
August 2014
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Racing to the World Championships
Kenzie Keaton and her horse Jetta have been racing locally, culminating in a trip to the National Barrel Horse Association’s Youth World Championship. by Crystal Huskey Editor Photo by Crystal Huskey
K
enzie Keaton, a 14-year-old who attends Clinton High, was selected to participate in the National Barrel Horse Association’s Youth World Championships in Perry, Ga. Keaton was born and raised in Clinton and has been around horses since she was 10. Her mother, Michelle Bailey, and stepfather, Grant, have been her biggest fans. Kenzie was an avid soccer-player before venturing into barrel racing. She did it competitively through school and seemed to thrive in the team atmosphere. When she was 10 years old, a cousin took her to a 4-H event, and she never looked back. She began taking lessons at Miller Hollow Farm, on Miller Road near Walmart, and after a couple of years began to race. She did it for fun at first, entering her slow, pokey horse Annie into races.
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“That’s when I fell in love with barrel racing,” she says. When she found out about the National Barrel Horse Association and the regular races, she decided to try it out. While it was a good fit for Kenzie, it wasn’t for Annie. “She just wasn’t fast enough,” she says. Barrel racing involves racing a horse as fast as you can around three barrels arranged in a clover pattern. The goal is to go as fast
as you can without knocking down a barrel. It’s competitive, but the person you’re up against is usually yourself, according to Kenzie. In January, she and her stepdad, Grant, went scouting for a horse that was built for racing and found Jetta. “When we went out and saw her,” Grant recalls, “we knew this was the right horse. When Kenzie first started working with Jetta, she would complete the circuit in 19 to 20 seconds. Now, after months of hard work and determination, Jetta is coming in at 15 to 16 seconds. They race regularly at the Volunteer Riding Association at the Clinton Fairgrounds, where dozens of people show up the first Saturday of the month to meet and compete.
“I love the adrenaline rush,” says Kenzie. “You’re really pumped after a good run. I think what I love most is the speed. Once I felt the speed of a fast horse, everything really just clicked.” Right now, Kenzie falls between the first and second division. She’s too fast for the second division but too slow for the first, so for now, she focuses on beating her own time. Many of the responsibilities of caring for the horses -- of which there are many -- fall to Kenzie, but she attributes her success to the support of her family. It’s been an adventure for them as well. “We really wouldn’t have been able to do this without Grant,” says Michelle. “He cleared out acres of wooded land and built a barn with the wood. He built the arena and spends hours researching ways to help Kenzie beat her time.” “I’m really living a childhood dream,” says Kenzie Keaton riding her family’s four-wheeler around the land Grant. “I grew up around horses but never had that her stepfather, Grant, cleared for her use in training and riding one of my own. I’ve had to teach myself in order horses. Photo by Crystal Huskey to help her. She would ask me questions but I didn’t have the answers, so I spent a lot of nights researching online and reading books.” For Kenzie, it’s about more than just racing. Riding Jetta gives her a chance to escape from the busy-ness of the world, recharge and have some freedom in the great outdoors. It’s something that she plans on doing for a long time. Her future plans include going to college and studying agriculture.
Racing to the Championships Kenzie Keaton racing at the Volunteer Riding Association, which takes place at the Clinton Fairgrounds on the first Saturday of the month. As of the time of this writing, Kenzie was still competing in the Championships. Her results will be printed in the September issue of the magazine. She performed well during the first run, according to her mother, Michelle Bailey. Photo courtesy of Michelle Bailey
AugustJuly 2014 2014June 2014 1919
The Art of Raising Drug-free Kids
by Stacey Pratt, Project Coordinator and Stephanie Strutner, Executive Director; Allies for Substance Abuse Prevention of Anderson County
P
ARENTS PLAY A MAJOR ROLE in their children’s choices about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Parents have more influence over their child than friends, music, TV, the Internet and celebrities. Teens who learn a lot about the risks of drugs and alcohol from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use than those who do not. Help your teen stay safe and make healthy choices by: • Talking and listening regularly • Being directly involved in your child’s everyday world • Making it clear that you do not want him or her drinking or using drugs • Setting limits
• Host safe, alcohol-free activities and events for youth • Refuse to supply alcohol to children or allow drinking in your home or on your property • Be at home when your teenager has a party • Make sure your teenager’s friends do not bring alcohol into your home • Talk to other parents about not providing alcohol at youth events • Report underage drinking
IF YOU LEARN YOUR teen has engaged in underage drinking, address the situation immediately. Keep calm, and avoid making threats or entering into power struggles. Ask the child why they wanted to drink or get drunk. Explain the dangers of underage alcohol use and ENGAGING IN A CONVERSATION with your teen listen for subtle hints about underlying issues that may for the first time about underage drinking can be have prompted them to use alcohol in the first place. At intimidating and uncomfortable. Be sure to ask openthe end of the day, make sure to be a role model of the ended questions and listen. Resist the temptation to person you want your child to be. What stronger antidominate the conversation and be sure to tell your drug message is there? teen you do not want them using alcohol underage. The approval of a parent can be very encouraging for Setting the stage for a safe party for your teen and a teen. The right word at the right time can strengthen their friends is important. You can protect your children the bond that helps keep your child away from drugs. by following these guidelines when hosting teen Emphasize the things your child does right and restrain parties: the urge to be critical. Try to reward good behavior consistently and immediately and monitor your teen’s activities. Even kids who think themselves too old for KNOW THE FACTS hugs will appreciate a pat on the back or a special treat. Affection and respect that make your teen feel good about himself will reinforce good behavior far more 1 in 6 teenagers admits to taking successfully than embarrassment or uneasiness. prescription drugs to get high or Make sure you monitor your teen by knowing change their mood where he or she is and what he or she will be doing during unsupervised time. Research shows that teens with unsupervised time are three times more likely to 36.4% of 12th graders admit to using use marijuana or other drugs and are more likely to marijuana engage in risky behaviors such as underage drinking, sexual activity, and cigarette smoking than other teens. Monitoring your teen can be easy by making clear rules, 90% of addicts began using illegal engaging in frequent communication, listening, being drugs or alcohol before the age of 18 aware of signs of drug use or paraphernalia, praising positive behavior, being a good role model, and being 25% of high schoolers will drink involved in your teen’s activities.
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For more information on prevention or parent tips, please visit www.ASAPofAnderson.org.
Clinton High Gets Ready for Some Football
The football team, cheerleaders and band spent time over the summer preparing for football season.
Isaiah Vibbert Junior
Eric Champion Junior
Proud Clinton High School supporter and photographer Shari Bryant submitted these photos of the Clinton High Dragons football team. The photos were taken during the summer. The Anderson County High Mavericks are also gearing up for the season; the two schools will compete on Aug. 22 and again on Oct. 31. (Editor’s note: next month Clinton Life will feature photos of the Anderson County High Mavericks. To submit photos of your own, email clintonlife@outlook. com.)
Tyson Irons Senior
August 2014
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August 2014
GOTTA GO!
See. Do. Enjoy.
Aug. 7
Get Out and Vote
On Aug. 7, you’ll have the opportunity to get out and cast your vote for the person you believe is most qualified for the job. Commissioners, Register of Deeds, governor, mayors and state senators are among those you can choose to keep or replace. Remember, these guys work for you, so get the facts before you vote. For a list of folks running for office, visit acelect.com. You can also view a sample ballot, which includes everyone running for every office. Useful, right?
Get out and vote for your candidate.
Photo courtesy of Anderon County Election Commission
On election day, visit acelect.com for live election results. By refreshing the page, you can see how your candidate is faring. Absentee votes and early votes have already been tallied, so check any time.
The Appalachian Arts Craft Center in Norris. Photo courtesy of Appalachian Arts Craft Center
August Classes at the Appalachian Arts Craft Center The Appalachian Arts Craft Center is offering multiple classes throughout the month of August. • Aug. 16: “Beginner Drop Spindle”, with Kathleen Marquardt • Aug. 23, 30: “Knitting - Snappy Scrappy Sampler Scarf”, with Patti
Ball • August 25, September 8, 15, and 22: “Handbuilding with Clay”, with Janet McCracken • September 6, 20, 27 : “Pottery on the Wheel, with Katie Cottrell” The Appalachian Arts Craft Center is located at 2716 Andersonville Highway in Norris. For more information on these classes and more, call (865) 494-9854 or visit
appalachianarts.net. There is a charge for these classes, so contact the center for more information.
August 2014 23 June 2014
Photo by Noah Frere
Reach for the Stars With the Knoxville Observers by Roger Lane
Send Us Your Photos
Whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer, we would love to see your work!
er Lane
Photo courtesy of Rog
Photo courte
sy of Roger La
Above, a photo by amateur astrophotographer Noah Frere shows the moon rising over a Knoxville suburb. Below, members of the Knoxville Observers set up telescopes to observe the night sky at Norris Dam State Park.
Photo courtesy of Roger Lane
Photo courtesy of Roger Lane
Email clintonlife@outlook.com to show us what you see.
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Photo by David Wildes
Photo courtesy of Roger Lane
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To participate in a “star party,” visit knoxobservers.org or email knoxvilleobservers@gmail.com. The group is available for educational events. You do not have to own a telesope or or binoculars to be involved.
August 2014
Photo by Noah Frere
The Knoxville Observers Astronomy Club (KO) is an amateur astronomy hobby group. KO is committed to fostering the enjoyment of visual observing and astrophotography as well as astronomy education and public outreach. KO holds public star parties at Norris Dam Park headquarters (weather permitting) at least once per month, helping beginning astronomers find their way around the night sky. KO member Noah Frere took the photo of the Orion Nebula (bottom) with a Canon 5D prime focus in an LX200 10� scope shortly after midnight. Photo
Photo by Noah Frere
by Noa
h Frere
June 2014 August 2014
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Thank You to the sponsors of
These generous sponsors have helped the Free Medical Clinic provide primary healthcare and related services at no charge to residents of Anderson, Morgan and Roane Counties who are uninsured and who cannot afford to pay for medical care.
Mary Lou and John Auxier Judy and Warren Gooch Herron-Connell Insurance Karen's Jewelers
Methodist Medical Center Richard and Lucretia Pack Peter's Jewelers Second Opinion Walt Disney World
Willow Ridge Garden Center Woodruff Brewing Company James and Pat Wilson Joan Ellen and Alex Zucker
Since opening in 2010, the clinic has served almost 3500 patients in over 17,000 visits.
Atomic Blast ticket sales end August 8th and tickets will not be available at the door. Get yours now at www.fmcor.org. Atomic Blast will be held Saturday, August 16th at St. Mary’s Parish Life Center in Oak Ridge. 865.483.3904
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Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information call
UPCOMING EVENTS... AUGUST FRIDAY 1 - 31 Department of Energy Bus Tours in Oak Ridge Various times WHAT: This tour is free with paid admission to the American Museum of Science and Energy and runs Mondays through Fridays during the summer, except holidays. Explore the original Manhattan Project sites around Oak Ridge and learn the history behind the development of the world’s first atomic weapon which helped to end WWII. WHERE: American Museum of Science and Energy, South Tulane Avenue, Oak Ridge INFO: For more information, contact AMSE at 865-5763200 or visit www.amse.org. Must be 10 or older. FAMILY
FRIDAY 1 Concerts on the Commons (every Friday night) 7 p.m.
WHAT: Concert on the Commons, Norris’ outdoor music series, will be held each Friday evening at 7:00pm. Everyone is encouraged to bring a lawn chair, blanket and picnic basket. This year’s line-up will feature a varied mix of musical styles and genres with artists drawn from near and far. WHERE: Norris Commons Area (in front of Norris Middle), Norris FAMILY•FREE
FRIDAY 1 (every Friday in August) Wing Night at Sequoyah Marina After 5 p.m.
WHAT: Start off your weekends on Friday night with Sequoyah’s famous “Wing Night” at the dock. WHERE: Sequoyah Marina, 336 Lakeview Ln., Andersonville INFO: For more information, call 865-494-7984 or visit www.sequoyahmarina.net. FAMILY • FREE • FOOD
FRIDAY 1-2 (every Friday and Saturday) Big Valley Barn After 5 p.m.
WHAT: Come visit the Big Valley Barn for great country music and dance every Friday and Saturday night. Enjoy 3 hours of new and traditional country music on Friday nights with various artists. WHERE: 901 Mountain Road, Clinton INFO: Contact Joy Patterson at 865-323-5103 FAMILY • FREE • FOOD
Schedules are subject to change. Call venues to confirm event information.
SATURDAY 2 (every Saturday in August) Sundown Saturdays 6 - 10 p.m.
WHAT: Live music, beautiful scenery at the Stardust Marina. WHERE: Stardust Marina, 149 Stardust Lane Andersonville. INFO: Visit stardustmarina.com or call 855.494.7641 FAMILY • FOOD
SATURDAY 2 (every Saturday) Clinton High School Flea Market 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.
WHAT: Proceeds will benefit the Clinton High School athletic department. Farmers are welcome to sell produce. WHERE: Parking lot in front of Don Lockard Gymnasium, Clinton High School FAMILY•FREE•FOOD
WEDNESDAY 6 Anderson County Schools start All day
WHAT: Anderson County Schools are back in session.
THURSDAY 7 Election Day All day
WHAT: Vote for your public official. INFO: Check out acelect.com for a list of people running for office. FAMILY•FREE•FOOD
FRIDAY 8 Oak Ridge After Dark 7 p.m.
WHAT: Einstein Simplified, comedy improve troupe will be at A.K. Bissell Park in Oak Ridge. WHERE: AK Bissell Park, Pavilion Stage, Oak Ridge. INFO: Visit oakridgevisitor.com. FAMILY•FREE
Interested in advertising? Let us help boost your business. Contact Paul Huskey at
865-235-9213
or email clintonlife@outlook.com.
August 2014
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UPCOMING EVENTS... SATURDAY 9 Second Saturdays in Downtown Clinton All day
WHAT: Shopping, eating and being with friends in downtown Clinton. WHERE: Start out along Market St., Clinton FAMILY•FREE•FOOD
MONDAY 11-15 Hunter’s Education Course Various times
WHAT: All registrants for this event must be 9 years of age by August 11, 2014. The course is offered free of charge to anyone interested regardless of
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age; however, you must be nine years of age or older in order to become a certified hunter education graduate. WHERE: Eagle Bend Hatchery 1207 N Charles G Seivers Blvd, Clinton INFO: Visit register-ed.com for more information.
FRIDAY 15 Oak Ridge After Dark 7 p.m.
WHAT: A showing of The Amazing Spiderman. Children are encouraged to dress as their favorite character in conjuction with each film. WHERE: AK Bissell Park, Pavilion Stage, Oak Ridge.
INFO: Visit oakridgevisitor.com. FAMILY•FREE
FRIDAY 15-30 Knoxville Children’s Theatre: Thumbelina, the Fairy Girl various times
WHAT: Performances are generally Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. WHERE: Knoxville Children’s Theatre, 109 E. Churchwell Avenue, Knoxville INFO: Call (865) 599-5284 or visit childrenstheatreknoxville. com.
THURSDAY 17-Aug. 17 Shakespeare on the Square 7 p.m.
WHAT: Shakespeare On The Square features two of the magnificent plays of Williams Shakespeare, comedies, tragedies and histories, rotated nightly outdoors on Market Square in the heart of downtown Knoxville. WHERE: Register at Museum of Appalachia, 2819 Andersonville Highway, Norris. INFO: Visit tennesseestagecompany.com for more information. FAMILY•FREE•FOOD
FRIDAY 22 Clinton Dragons vs. Anderson County Mavericks football game 7:30 p.m.
WHAT: Anderson County High will play against Clinton High as the opening game of the season. WHERE: Anderson County High School, 130 Maverick Circle, Clinton INFO: Open to the public.
MONDAY 25 Clinton City Council meeting 5:30-6:30 p.m.
WHAT: Participate in your local government and let your voice be heard. WHERE: City Council board room, Clinton City Hall INFO: Monthly on the fourth Mondays. Open to the public. Visit clintontn.net for more information.
WEDNESDAY 27 5-County Alzheimer’s Tennessee Walk KickOff noon
WHAT:Join others for information and tools to help form a team! Make your reservation by emailing debbie. kinnard@tnalz.org or calling (865) 544-6288.
WHERE: Riverview Grille, Oak Ridge. INFO: Visit alztennessee.org for more information.
SEPTEMBER FRIDAY 12-13 Days of the Pioneer All day
by A Simple Life Magazine, to benefit the Museum of Appalachia! WHERE: Museum of Appalachia, 2819 Andersonville Highway, Clinton INFO: For more information or to purchase tickets, visit museumofappalachia.com.
WHAT: Join us in the hills of Eastern Tennessee at the beloved Museum of Appalachia for the 2014 Days of the Pioneer Antique Event. Come for the antiques, visit with the dealers who came from all over the United States, hear the music, see the Civil War reenactors, and enjoy the down home cookin’. Hosted
August 2014
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AND ANOTHER THING...
Clinton Kids Get Fit and Have Fun After receiving a grant for $25,000, Clinton City Schools came up with a program that encourages kids to get outdoors and stay active.
by Shannon Cook Community contributor
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Students took swimming lessons during the Get Moving! summer program Photos courtesy of Shannon Cook
Shannon Cook, top left, with her husband and students involved in the Summer Running Club. Photos courtesy of Shannon Cook
Clinton City Schools received a $25,000 grant from Coca-cola to implement a free, physical exercise programs after school to all the students in the Clinton City School district. With that money, our former Coordinator of Health came up with the Get Moving! program. The vision we have for the program is to provide fun physical activity opportunities for all our students who wish to participate. We plan on hosting an event every Saturday. The Get Moving! program will be held at various locations within our community. The program will begin at 10 a.m. and end at noon. This is your child’s opportunity to participate in an active club with no cost to you. The clubs available include the Running Club, Rock-Climbing and Badminton, Ultimate Frisbee, Bowling, Swimming, and Basketball. Our overall attendance for these programs has been an average of 40 students. We invited local high schools to send student volunteers in order to obtain their service hours for clubs and
organizations. The running club was a huge success at all Clinton Elementary, South Clinton Elementary and North Clinton Elementary. It took place right after school on Fridays and from noon-1 p.m. on Saturdays. Teachers from all three schools volunteered during the program. Because the Get Moving! program was received so well, we continued the activities into the summer. The running club met on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-5 p.m. in Jaycee Park during the month of June. We created a “family hiking time,” which occurred on all four Saturdays during the month of June. We rotated trails from Norris to Oak Ridge. The students conducted nature scavenger hunts with a map, binoculars and small draw string backpacks. The Get Moving! program provided not only physical activities, but also team building skills and helped make connections between all three schools. For more information, visit clintonschools.org and scroll to the Get Moving! link on the left. We welcome volunteers and additional students.
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August 2014
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POSTAL PATRON
P.O. Box 1003 Clinton, TN 37717
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Insurance and discounts subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co., Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. Northbrook, Illinois Š 2010 Allstate Insurance Co.