Farragut Fall 2017

FALL 2017

A magazine for the people of Farragut, West Knoxville & surrounding communities.

Don’t Miss the 5th Annual Muscadine Balloon Fiesta!

This Labor Day Weekend

FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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OUR MISSION IS

TO SAVE LIVES FROM BREAST CANCER The Knoxville Comprehensive Breast Center is an independent facility specializing in women’s breast health. The breast center handles everything related to breast healthcare from screening, through diagnosis and treatment. It is located in a beautiful building in Dowell Springs with a staff of over 70 employees including 6 physicians that specialize in breast care.

KCBC performs digital mammography, ultrasound, fine needle biopsies, Breast MRI and also has a Digital Mobile Mammography Coach.

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KCBC is one of the few places in our area where you can get high risk counseling and genetic testing. Located in the lobby of the facility is a boutique that will fit women for breast prosthesis.

The boutique sells prosthesis, bras, wigs and other breast cancer related items. The innovative way Dr. Kozlowski has delivered breast care has made The Knoxville Comprehensive Breast Center the top choice for women in our community and surrounding areas.

FARRAGUT LIFE FALL 2017

SERVICES INCLUDE: • Cryoablation

• Bone Densitometry • Breast MRI

• Comprehensive Breast Surgical Treatment

• Diagnostic Breast Ultrasound • Diagnostic Visit

• High Risk Assessment

• Image Guided Biopsies • Mobile Mammography

• Multi-specialty Cancer Team

• Screening Breast Ultrasound • Screening Mammograms

• Second Opinion Evaluation

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Dr. Kozlowski is the first in Tennessee to provide Inoffice Cryoablation with the Visicia 2 Treatment System.

Cryoablation is a treatment to kill cancer cells with extreme cold.

During cryoablation, a thin, wandlike needle (cryoprobe) is inserted through your skin and directly into the cancerous tumor. A gas is pumped into the cryoprobe in order to freeze the tissue.

865.584.0291 | 1400 Dowell Springs Boulevard, Suite 200, Knoxville, Tennessee 37909 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm | 3rd Saturday of every month 8:00am - 12:00pm www.knoxvillebreastcenter.com SUMMER 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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FARRAGUT LIFE FALL 2017

Dermatology Associates of Knoxville, PC, BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGISTS At DAK you will receive the highest quality treatment, in a warm and caring environment, utilizing the most advanced treatments and technology. We want you to love your skin.

Dermatology

Specializing in Mohs surgery, skin cancer, general dermatology and aesthetic skin care.

Treating problems of the skin, hair and nails. Including Eczema, Psoriasis, Acne as well as other illnesses and infections.

SkinCare Center

Revealing, restoring and enhancing your own natural beauty. Our Skin Care Center’s experienced, professional staff offers results oriented, personalized products and treatments.

All SkinCare Staff are supervised by our Board-Certified Dermatologists.

Edward J. Primka III, MD

Drew W. Miller, MD

Carley Fowler, MD

Dermatology Associates of Knoxville, P.C.

Ronald Hamrick, MD

Introducing Maya Aravind Raiman

865.524.2547 | www.dermaknox.com | M-F 8:00am - 4:30pm

UT Medical Center

Farragut Office

1928 Alcoa Hwy. Bldg. B Suite 209 Knoxville, TN 37920

Farragut Medical Building 11416 Grisgsby Chapel Rd. Suite 100 Knoxville, TN 37934 SkinCare Center 865.675.8000

Powell Office

Tennova North 7557 Dannaher Lane Suite G 20 (off Emory Road) Powell, TN 37849 SkinCare Center 865.362.8507

Downtown Office

Tennova Physicians Regional 939 E. Emerald Ave. Suite 705 Knoxville, TN 37917 FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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Volume 2, 2015

A magazine for the people of Farragut, West Knoxville & surrounding communities.

Seasonal Culinary Inspirations Truffle Ricotta Cheese Recipe With Chef Deron Little

KIPPY BROWN Behind The Scenes With

Seattle Seahawks Coach Kippy Brown And His Amazing Life Story

THE MUSCADINE FESTIVAL &

AIR BALLOONS 20 HOT

Tsali Notch Vineyard The Largest Muscadine Vineyard In The State Is Also The Prettiest!

DR. HAROLD BLACK

One Of The First African-Americans To Attend The University Of Georgia

Farragut_Summer_2015.indd 1

8/25/15 10:27 AM

MONROE LIFE MAGAZINE’S 5TH ANNUAL

Benefiting CASA Monroe

T E N N E S S E E

HUNTING & TRAPPING GUIDE

EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2015 - JULY 31, 2016

» New White-Tailed Deer Buck Bag Limit: see page 25 » Hunter/Landowner Permission Card: see page 67 » New Hunter Education Field Day Exemption: see page 12

www.tnwildlife.org Follow us on:

Includes 2016 Spring Turkey Season

MARKETING • MEDIA • WEB DESIGN • TELEVISION

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Community Health Services

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YEARS OF BRANDING EXPERIENCE

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YEARS OF IN-HOUSE TELEVISION PRODUCTION

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CUSTOM MAGAZINES A YEAR

150

LOCAL AND NATIONAL ADDY AWARDS

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NATIONAL BROADCAST TELLY AWARDS

W W W . B I N G H A M G R O U P . C O M • TEL: 865.523.5999 • 11921 KINGSTON PIKE • KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE 37934

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Gardening In Late Summer How to Keep Your Garden Looking Great Despite Drought

Contents features

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Randy Boyd From Van-Sold Electric Fences to Running for Governor

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Neal Caldwell 42

How An Owl Changed Everything

Neal Invents Tiva Water Filter

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Fall Events for The Whole Family Take Your Family to a Selection of Unique Festivals Celebrating Autumn

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Chelsea Cheers A Former Tennessee

Cheerleader Wants to Give Kids Their Opportunity to Shine

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MONROE LIFE MAGAZINE

MUSCADINE BALLOON FIESTA

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MEET THIS YEAR’S

PILOTS

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42 Roy Smith Balloon Meister 1957-2017

departments 6 From The Publisher 22 Explore The Trails of Tennessee 50 “Glamping”

At Castleton Farms

50 Farragut Football For The Win! 66 Farragut Chamber

Fall Is Full Of Opportunities

66 Cherokee Spotlight The Legend of CoCo Belle

70 Happenings

Smoky Mountain Service Dogs

Veterans in Need Receive Specially Trained Furry Friends

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PUBLISHER

The Bingham Group President Lisa Atkins Bingham

F

all is here, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. The air is cooling and the leaves are changing colors. It’s the most gorgeous time of the year here in East Tennessee, and the most festive.

It feels like everywhere you turn, there’s another exciting event just around the corner.

The biggest event this season is the Monroe Life Muscadine Balloon Fiesta, a hot air balloon festival held to raise money for CASA Monroe. This fun festival features a flurry of activities for families. Food, live music, and balloon rides are only some of the activities planned. We also have showcased other fun events that celebrate the season in our fall events section, and spooky halloween events to collect all the treats.

It’s not just autumn here, it’s football time. We were able to sit down with one of Tennessee’s former cheerleader, Chelsea Harris, a hometown girl who went to Sequoyah. We’ll see how she’s influencing a future generation of confident, committed kids through her time as a cheerleader and a business owner of Soaring Heights.

We were also blessed to sit down with business owner and former Economic Development Commissioner Randy Boyd, and talk about what really happened behind his overnight success story in the electric fencing industry. We also get to hear what influenced him to run for Governor of Tennessee. His story is one I’m sure you’ll enjoy.

A special thank you goes out to all our advertisers, readers, and subscribers who have made this publication possible!

Art Director Abby Swabe Graphic Designers Alexys Lambert Contributing Writers Sydnee Brashears Nancy Dalton Lisa Grugin Marvin Harper Halea Lingerfelt Cover Photo Lisa Amos Contributing Photographers Lisa Bingham Ben Gibson Kara Hudgens Photography Co. Tammy Lee Halea Lingerfelt Ennette Martin Carlo Reveiz Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com CeCe Owens Tel: 865.385.1358 cece@binghamgroup.com Subscription or Editorial Inquiries

Tel: 865.523.5999 Fax: 865.523.0999 www.farragutlife.com

The Bingham Group, Inc. 11921 Kingston Pike, Suite 201 Knoxville, Tennessee 37934 www.binghamgroup.com www.farragutlife.com

Lisa Bingham President of The Bingham Group Publisher of Farragut, Monroe and McMinn Life

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Balloon Fiesta Exhaustion

The Most Award Winning Wine in the History of the State of Tennessee!

“HIWASSEE”, our white semisweet wine, is now the most award winning wine in the history of the state of Tennessee. It won the William O. Beach award for the best wine from Tennessee fruit, the best white, and the best of Muscadine, all at the Wines of the South competition, an annual 14 state event. It also won a silver medal at the San Francisco Chronicle wine contest, the largest wine contest in the world.

Planning an Event?

The vineyard hosts weddings, receptions, reunions, civic clubs and other events. In addition to the vineyard grounds we also offer the following facilities: The Tasting Room The Upper Barn (for large events)

The Jackson Lounge & Tents Please give us a call.

423.506.9895 • 140 Harrison Rd. • Madisonville, TN 37354 • www.tsalinotch.com

423-506-9895 • 109 East Morrison Street • Sweetwater, TN 37874

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Saturday, September 2nd 2pm - 10pm, Sunday, September 3rd, 2pm - 10pm.

Photo by Lisa Amos

FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY The 5th Annual Muscadine Balloon Fiesta will return to East Tennessee at Tsali Notch Vineyard. Enjoy balloon rides, live music, food, games, an inflatable Kid’s Zone and much more all while supporting CASA Monroe.

The two-day Balloon Fiesta begins on Saturday, September 2nd from 2pm - 10pm, and runs through Sunday, September 3rd, from 2pm - 10pm. The finale each night will be a Balloon Glow set to music with at least 20 colorful hot air balloons beginning at dusk. We have 20 of the most talented balloon pilots in the country excited to entertain the community.

This year the Nine Lakes Wine Country is joining the Fiesta. Nine local Vineyards will be hosting a tasting event. For $10 you can buy a wrist band and sample local wines.

We invite everyone to come out and join in the celebration!

www.muscadineballoonfiesta.com SATURDAY NIGHT

LIVE MUSIC

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Mt. LeConte Jug Band 2:30pm - 4:30pm Groove Juction 4:45pm - 6:45pm Bo Ashby Band 7:00pm - 9:00pm

SUNDAY NIGHT

Maddie Carpenter & Jordan McCullough with Jack Townsend 2:30pm - 4:30pm Southern Star 4:45pm - 6:45pm Hinckley Brothers 7:00pm - 9:00pm

CRAFT VENDORS • CLOWNS • PONY RIDES • WINE TASTING • FUNNEL CAKES • BARBECUE • CORN DOGS PULLED PORK SANDWICHES • FRIED OREOS • HAMBURGERS • COTTON CANDY AND OTHER FUN FOODS!

Buy a VIP Ticket and you will meet the pilots, enjoy gourmet food and beverages and get a quick pass to purchase tethered balloon rides. this year we have added the nine lakes wine garden. We will have a Grand tasting in the vip tent which will include more than 200 wines and hand-crafted hard ciders from 10 regional wineries. $125 a night, tickets are limited.

Bring A Lawn Chair or Blanket, Have Dinner and Enjoy the Balloon Glow Set To Music!

Cost for one-day tickets are $10 per adult and $5 for kids,12 and under. Free admission for children age 5 and under.

Sunny Boy & VIP photos by Ennette Nichols Martin

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Roy Smith Balloon Meister 1957-2017

Roy Smith has been contributing to the future of kids and the joys of spectators as the Balloon Miester for Monroe Life Magazine’s Muscadine Balloon Festival since it began 4 years ago. Last year was Roy’s final opportunity to serve the kids, the pilots and the community.

This spring, he surrendered an epic fight to a 6 year battle with cancer.

Roy’s joy was helping kids in hopes for the adults they would become. He did it through service in this festival and also through his contributions as Vice President of the Shiloh Riders; a local motorcycle club that raises money to provide a Christmas for the children of East Tennessee who would otherwise miss a few presents and the love that accompanies them.

His joy and passion live on in those who were close to him and even in those he never got to meet. It is with glad hearts and knowing Roy’s desire to see this event be a success that we continue his efforts. This year, we will fly in memory of our friend and leader, for the kids.

– Thanks Roy. 12

FARRAGUT LIFE FALL 2017

Roy Smith was always willing to help out for the kids. At his memorial service, held at Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson, fellow pilots lit torches for cyclists to drive through to honor his memory and his work with the Muscadine Balloon Fiesta and the Shiloh Riders.

Roy with his Grandsons. Roy at various promotional events. You could always count on him to show up at the television station or the school by 4:30 am.

Roy with Co-Founder of the Muscadine Balloon Fiesta, Roy took Lisa Bingham on her first flight for her birthday during the first Fiesta, he made sure she had something to talk about with an exciting landing!

“I truly miss Roy Smith. We flew competitively as partners for nearly 20 years.”

Tom Rousch

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Steve toast Terry McNew, President of Mastercraft after his sponsor flight.

MEET OUR PILOTS We are proud to present this year’s balloon pilots! These balloonists from the great states of Tennessee, Iowa, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia will be bringing over 150+ years of combined experience and a diverse collection of vibrant balloons with them to the festival. Our pilots have flown as far as Australia and Costa Rica in search of the most beautiful landscapes many people only dream about. They come from diverse backgrounds, have been in numerous competitions and races and have perfomed aerial stunts. Do not miss some of the greatest pilots in the world. Come and enjoy the sights and sounds of some of the most elaborate balloons known to man.

Our Balloon Meister this year is Roy Smith’s son-in law, Steve Davis. Steve came to Tennessee to teach Roy to fly his balloon. Always a daredevil, Steve would parachute out of the balloon, land near the chase vehicle and then pick Roy up as he landed the balloon. During all the flying lessons Steve ended up falling in love with Roy’s 17 year old daughter, Amy. They were married a few years later. Amy and Steve have a great show planned this year to honor Roy.

Steve Davis

Balloon Meister 2018

Bill Scarberry, Jr.

Meredith Bennett

Amy Smith Davis and Steve Davis

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Meredith is from Columbus, OH and has been involved in the ballooning community for over 15 years, with piloting her balloons for over 12 years.

She has been travelling to rallies throughout Ohio, North Carolina, Indiana, New Mexico, and Michigan and is excited to add Tennessee to her list. This is her first time flying in the Muscadine Balloon Fiesta and is very excited to be invited to attend and fly her new balloon Moonshine for you all this year.

‘Bluner Bill’, Bill Scarberry Jr. is from LeSage, WV and has been flying for 31 years, clocking over 1000 hours. He has several accreditations including Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certified and Commercially Rated Hot Air Balloon Pilot. In April 2000, he was commercially licensed by the Directorate of Civil Aviation (DCA) in Kenya, Africa to fly passenger balloons up to 310,000 cubic feet and to train in the 400,000 cubic feet balloon (the world’s largest passenger carrying balloon at that time). Bill was a member of the Balloon Federation of America from 1988, was a member and Piedmont Director of the Carolinas Balloonist Association, and a member of the Iredell Aeronaut Society until it ceased to be. He is currently an AAAA Member. ‘Bluner Bill’ has done business since 1991 as “Sky High Balloon Promotions” from in and around the LeSage and Huntington, West Virginia area, then Abingdon, Virginia, serving the Tri-Cities Area of Tennessee and surrounding areas, then in Concord, North Carolina. Bill and his wife, Kathy now reside in Piney Flats, Tennessee. Now semi-retired as a full time balloon pilot, he flies only for fun, sport and his and Kathy’s favorite charities.

Blessing N D-Skyz

Orange Crush

David Bristol David Bristol is from Georgia (though he is based out of Knoxville) and has been flying hot air balloons for over 34 years. He is a Commercial hot air, Commercial Gas balloonist, Student Helicopter Pilot and an Commercial Airline Pilot with American Airlines.

East Tennessee is one of his favorite places to fly a balloon. The views are breathtaking, he says, and the local people make him feel at home. He is excited to once again be a part of the Great Muscadine Balloon Fiesta. This year he will be bringing two balloons: “Orange Crush” and “Blessing N D-Skyz”.

Steve Turner Steve is President of Gemcorp, Inc, a fine jewelry and gemstone appraisal service in Atlanta, Georgia. Gemcorp services the public, banks, insurance companies, the jewelry trade and attorneys for estate and equitable distribution matters. His hobbies include flying airplanes and hot air balloons, playing guitar and most importantly, sharing precious moments with his four grandchildren.

Steve began aviating at the tender age of 18, earning his fixed-wing private pilot license.

He went on to earn his commercial license with instrument privileges and later both his private and commercial lighter-than-air endorsement. He was drawn to hot air balloons because “ they make people smile!”

Danny & Marie Campbell Dan Campbell has been flying hot air balloons since 1973 (44 years) and is the Chief Pilot and Z-Balloon Adventures owner/ operator. An avid Hot-Air Balloon Pilot, Dan averages between 120 to 190 flights a year.

Dan is also a Special Shape Pilot and he owns several unique balloons. Dan holds numerous Hot-Air Balloon records and awards. In 1998 he ranked 1st in the nation in the Balloon Federation of America’s Long Jump Compettion.

In addition, Dan holds the distinction of being Iowa’s furthest flying pilot. In 1998 Dan also became the first pilot in Iowa in over 24 years to fly in the dark. Dan has a LifeTime membership in the BFA (Balloon Federation of America), since 1989. Dan is also a BFA Level VII Prominent Aeronaut and a FAA Safety Wings Program Level 12 Pilot.

In the last few years, Dan has flown in China, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Canada and Mexico as well as all over the US. Campbell flies 1-2 Balloon Races a year as the balloon ride business keeps him busy at home. Dan was also ordained as a Minister in 2001 so as to allow him to conduct balloon weddings and cremation scattering ceremonies.

Tom & Pat Rousch Tom Rousch has been flying balloons since 1980, and has been a fixed wing pilot since 1956. He has over 2,000 hours, has flown in three World Championships, and competed in 20 National Championships. He has flown in about 10 foreign countries, began flying in the East Tennessee area in the early 80’, and has been Flight Director at about 25 events over the years, including the WOKI and the Pellissippi events. He is the Western Region Director for the Carolinas Balloon Association, a Balloon Federation of America Master Flight Instructor, and The Regional Representative for Cameron Balloons.

Sam Parks Owner/President of Parks Quality Air, Inc. and Parks Balloon aviation, Inc., Sam has been flying balloons since 1988. An avid Hot-Air Balloon Pilot, advancing to commercial rating in 1989 and gas balloon rating in 2000, he has logged more than 1,400 hours of flight time and 161 in gas balloons. Sam is the current President of the Balloon Federation of America. He is the founding member and past president of the Iredell Aeronauts Society and Aero Club of America, North Carolina Chapter LLC, as well as past president of the Carolinas Balloon Association. In 2011, Sam achieved the title of Assistant Balloon Meister of the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival, the world’s largest balloon festival, graduating into the role as Balloon Meister in 2013 and 2014. Sam has flown balloons in Canada, England, Japan, Australia and Austria.

Photo by Enette Nichols Martin

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Oochie 5 and Oochie 7

Sunny Boy

Wayne Fortney Wayne Fortney lives in Kingsport and has been flying his balloon named Rosie since 1996. His entire family enjoys the sport, and he even met his wife on a balloon ride in Bristol, Virginia. Wayne has attended rallies all over the US and Canada and attends The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October for the 12th time. Wayne’s Team Mantra: “We launch with passengers...We land with friends.”

Rosie

Suncatcher

Joseph Hurdt

Papa Red

Brian & Mancy Hoyle Brian Hoyle is from Raleigh, NC, and has been involved with flight since the 1980’s, though only recently became a pilot in 2005. Brian runs Hot Air Marketing, a marketing consulting firm specializing developing promotions, experiential marketing, public relations and social media marketing strategies with partners at the agency and brand levels. His balloon “Papa Red” is one of the nation’s few wheelchair accessible balloons. The Hoyles dedicate much of their balloon work with Papa Red and a portion of proceeds from tethered rides to Project Uplift USA, an all-volunteer group founded by Brian, committed to promoting Americanism and volunteerism through its annual Freedom Balloon Fest held Memorial Day weekend honoring Gold Star family members. Throughout the year, the organization works to provide hot air balloon experiences for military families and children living with mobility challenges and they offer free, K-12 STEM-based educational enrichment programs using hot air balloons as a teaching tool.

Joseph owns Excite Tech Inc, a technology and consulting firm in Shelby, NC. He enjoys working in a field where ideas and solutions are ever-changing. As unique and exciting as his daily tasks may be, nothing compares to ballooning. Joseph’s enthusiasm for the sport began after receiving a surprise birthday flight, and he has been flying or dreaming of flying since. For Joseph, ballooning is about bringing families together; his own, as well as a growing community of pilots and crew. His greatest reward, however, is seeing the sense of wonder and amazement in the eyes of the children and families he’s met while piloting SunCatcher.

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Marc Klinger Marc Klinger and his wife Ursula currently reside in Troutman, NC. Marc has worked for Piedmont Plastics, Inc. for the past 25 years and is currently the company’s Chief Information Officer. They maintain a small farm in Troutman, North Carolina with some friendly donkeys, chickens and other wildlife. Both Marc and Ursula are both rated balloon pilots and have been involved in ballooning for over 27 years, clocking 750 hours. Marc is involved with the Carolinas Balloon Association, a regional balloon organization, as well the Aero Club of America, currently the only active Gas Ballooning organization in the US. Marc also flies competitively being recognized as the most improved rookie in 2016, finishing 13th nationally.

Daniel Sasser Daniel has been involved in ballooning since he was six years old. He attended a balloon rally with his family and has been hooked ever since. Currently living in the Charlotte, NC, Daniel has had the opportunity to fly all across the southeast, and has even flown in ‘the big one,’ Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico. Daniel enjoys sharing his passion with friends, family, and all the cool people you meet along the way. He is thrilled to be returning to beautiful east Tennessee to participate in this event, which is one of his favorites, and fly along so many friends for such a worthy cause.

Palmetto Paws

Philip MacNutt Originally from Hammond Louisiana, Phillip now lives in Salisbury, North Carolina with his wife Renee. In 1986 he received his private pilot’s license for hot air balloons, and then advanced to a commercial rating 3 years later. In 2001, he received his gas balloon rating. With over 1,000 hours to date in balloons, Phillip has flown in 17 states within the US, and also has flown in France, Germany, England, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Mexico, and Austria. In 1994, he built his first balloon system, and then went on to design and construct several more systems including a gas balloon that he flew several times in the America’s Challenge gas balloon race, as well as a replica of Ed Yost’s famous “Silver Fox” transatlantic gas balloon. Phillip, along with co-pilot Richard Abruzzo flew the 2005 Gordon Bennett gas race, launching from Brussels Belgium and landing 3 days later in eastern Finland near the Russian border, a total of nearly 2,000 kilometers in distance.

Phillip has also been quite involved in high altitude balloon work with 3 flights above 20,000 feet, including a flight to 32,000 feet.

He has spoken on the subject as a featured speaker at a BFA safety seminar in Houston, Texas. In October 2002, BFA President Phil Bryant presented the BFA Director’s award to Phillip for his contributions and spirit in ballooning. In 2012, Phillip achieved the highest available level (Distinguished) in the BFA’s Pilot Achievement award program

Jayme Nelson Jayme is from Anderson, SC and has been in the ballooning world since she was born. Her father, Jim Hendershot, has been a pilot for over thirty years and taught her how to fly. She enjoys traveling to balloon events around the southeast with her parents, husband, and daughter. Her balloon, Palmetto Paws, represents her love for Clemson and her home state of South Carolina.

Roger Clark

Drew Egerton Drew is a second generation pilot from Statesville, NC, and has collected over 520 hours in balloons after receiving his license at 22, after receiving an Engineering Technology degree from Western Carolina.

After attending his first balloon event at 16 months old, both of his parents pursued their pilot’s licenses. His first balloon ride was at the age of 4 over Knoxville during one of the many events in the East TN area they attended. Drew’s favorite passion in ballooning is competition, where pilots use winds at different altitudes to steer the balloons to a target. Drew has won events in NC, SC and OH and has finished 6th at the National Championship twice. He also serves in several volunteer positions with the Balloon Federation of America’s Competition Division.

Roger Clark is a passionate pilot with over 3,900 hours in balloons, and certified 15 pilots. He has flown in most of the largest festivals, many states and about every type of balloon. He has been a flight instructor, ground instructor, safety seminar instructor, balloon manufacturer worker (HEAD) and am currently a FAAST Team member for the Southern Region. He flew for the following major sponsors among others: Ziploc, Re/Max, Longhorn Steakhouse, Coors Light, Crafted with Pride/Made in USA, WSPA-TV7, WESC-92.5 FM, Freedom Weekend Aloft and numerous individual banner events and sponsors. He was the staff meteorologist for the BFA Nationals in 2006 & 2008 and the weather officer for Camden Balloon Rally (1991), Balloons Over Anderson (2010-2016), Freedom Weekend Aloft (2011-2014) and the Carolina Balloonfest in Statesville (2011-2017). He has also taught at the CBA Safety Seminar in 2011 and 2014, Safety Seminar at Sea in 2012-2014 and 2018 and BFA Approved Southeast Regional Ground School/Safety Seminar in 2012 and 2013. While his flying has been predominately in the Southeast, he has been around the BFA Nationals and the World’s and is familiar with the needs of the ballooning community at large.

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Fall Events NOT TO MISS

One of my personal favorite activities, the Tennessee Valley Fair will be held September 8th- 17th. Nestled in Chilhowee Park, the fair always brings loads of excitement and educational activities. From prize-winning animals to concerts to the rides to the quintessential fried everything, this fair has activities for everyone. And this year, bring your kids (and your kids at heart) to the Lego Extravaganza competition. And if you need something a little more exciting or just want to see mindless destruction (and who doesn’t?) the demolition derby has just the thing for your needs. Stop on by the Tennessee Valley Fair, and learn about the food chain, or just learn how many cotton candies you can stomach on the tilt-a-whirl.

For more information visit tnvalleyfair.org

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Fall is the time of festivals in East Tennessee. From pumpkins to muscadine grapes, there’s something for every member of the family this season. Take advantage of the crisp air and pumpkin spice, and check out a festival near you.

Held on September 22nd-23rd, The National Muscadine festival celebrates America’s First Grape. The unique fruit’s sweetness is tempered by a tart finish, and the wines produced from the grape are highly renowned. The festival takes place in historic downtown Sweetwater, though a shuttle runs to the Tsali Notch Vineyard, the source of the festival’s namesake, as well as the Lost Sea, America’s largest underground lake. The festival will host several fun events. From muscadine picking to unique vendors to the barbecue competition to the kid zone, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. And the best part of it all? The admission is free. Come on down to downtown Sweetwater, and experience the greatest grape you ever ate. For more information visit www. nationalmuscadinefestival.com

AUTUMN GOLD FESTIVAL The second week of October always hails the Coker Creek Autumn Gold Festival. This year, the two-day festival falls on October 14th15th, and resides in the Coker Creek Village.

The free festival hosts a range of activities: the princess contest, panning for gold and free wagon and horseback rides for the kids, as well as a board-splitting demonstration, music, art and vendors for the kids at heart.

Last year, over 70 vendors attended the event, and this year is looking to increase that number further. If you’re looking for a fun event steeped in history, look no further.

PICKIN’ AT THE NOTCH Want to collect some muscadine grapes, but can’t grow the finicky things in your own backyard? Tsali Notch Vineyard, located at 140 Harrison Rd, Madisonville, has you covered. On September 23rd, Tsali Notch is having it’s Pickin at the Notch event. But don’t just go for the grapes- they also have fresh flowers and produce, antiques, jams and jellies, jewelry, and crafts. September 22nd, the day before, has a VIP picking session. For $35, you will also be able to enjoy wine tasting, door prizes, live music, and much more.

Go get yourself some great grapes- and great memories- this fall! For more information call 423-442-4588 or visit facebook.com/monroecountychamberofcommerce

CHEROHALA FESTIVAL In Tellico Plains, on Saturday, October 28th, lies the 2nd annual Cherohala Skyway Festival. The festival started last year to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the skyway, and is hosted by the Charles Hall Museum and the Monroe County Tourism Bureau. Admission is free, and all proceeds from buying food will go to the museum foundation, which improves the lives of the Tellico Plains residents.The festival will hold many fun events for all ages: face-painting, (safe) archery, live music, Appalachian demonstrations, and a library book sale. Come out and celebrate history in Tellico Plains, and help support the community.

Held on October 14th, Pumpkintown is hosting its fourteenth annual festival in Athens, Tennessee. Several activities have been planned, ranging from arts and crafts to the Mutt Strut to the Scott Crisp Memorial PowWow, performed by Native American Dancers in traditional attire. Children’s booths and live music help add to the festive atmosphere, and all lead up to the Greatest Pumpkin Hunt, a search for the best carved pumpkin in the land. The festival is fun for all ages, and has no admission fee. Bring your kids and your dog (preferably dressed to impress for the costume contest) and come celebrate the harvest season. For more information visit facebook.com/ PumpkintownFestivalinAthensTN

BOO! AT THE ZOO Looking for a fun and family-friendly place to take your kids trick-or-treating? East Tennessee has your back. There are plenty of events this year, including a favorite with kids of all ages—Boo! at the Zoo. The Knoxville Zoo will hold its annual event on October 12-15, 19-22 and 26-29. Admission is $9, and kids can trick-or-treat as they explore the zoo from 5:30pm-8:00pm. Kids four and under get in free. Be sure to put on your best costume and enjoy all the festivities while collecting your bounty of candy from throughout the zoo!

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CelebrateLife AT

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Milestones Event Center is the ideal site for many memorable occasions. Whether you need space for a small meeting or dinner for a family reunion; bridal or baby shower; or even a place to celebrate someone’s life, The Milestones Event Center is the perfect place for any event.

Located inside the Farragut Office Park off of Kingston Pike in the heart of Farragut, the Milestones Event Center is open and available for whatever “Milestone” event you need.

Celebration of Life Memorials • Weddings & Parties • Business Meetings & Conferences

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Call us today at (865) 898-6748 to set up a time to tour our wonderful facility or contact us at contact@clickeventcenters.com for more information.

FARRAGUT LIFE FALL 2017

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Written By: Nancy A. Dalton, Tennessee Overhill Heritage Assoication

W

ith every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks.” John Muir

Visitors are drawn to the Southeast corner of Tennessee from all over the country to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the Tennessee Overhill region, a three-county area that includes the southern half of the Cherokee National Forest (CNF). One of the major draws to the Overhill is the natural beauty of the mountains and rivers located throughout the area. There are hiking trails, four rivers, two blueways, numerous lakes and over 60 waterfalls. Hiking is one of the most popular sport activity.

It’s easy to pinpoint why hiking is such a popular pastime here and across the United States. There is the easy accessibility–there are so many trails and countless marked and unmarked offshoots to explore and capture your

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fascination. Getting started is as easy as putting one foot in front of the other. Our challenging treks will keep even the most expert hiker on their toes, and there are so many family–and dog–friendly trails. I believe the popularity is just the excitement of witnessing and experiencing the beauty and diversity of nature and feeling the land beneath your feet.

Whatever it is that drives you to lace up your boots and head out on the trail, our Tennessee trail system will not disappoint.

There are over 400 miles of hiking trails in the Overhill alone to satisfy your imagination. So let’s take a hike!

With so many awe-inspiring trails in this area, where do we start? There are two National Recreation Trails in the Cherokee National Forest(CNF) – the John Muir Trail and the Warrior’s Trail.

The newest distance trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail.

John Muir Trail - The John Muir National Recreation Trail is a 20.7-mile trail in eastern Tennessee along the north side of Hiwassee River in the Cherokee National Forest. It is named for naturalist John Muir. It was constructed in 1972 through the efforts of the Youth Conservation Corps and the Senior Community Service Employment Program. It is said to follow the path taken during Muir’s travels from Kentucky to Florida in his book A Thousand Mile Walk to the Gulf. In it, he wrote...“My path all to-day led me along the leafy banks of the Hiwassee, a most impressive mountain river.

Its channel is very rough, as it crosses the edges of upturned rock strata, some of them standing at right angles, or glancing off obliquely to right and left. Thus a multitude of short, resounding cataracts are produced, and the river is restrained from the headlong speed due to its volume and the inclination of its bed.”

Warrior’s Trail - Warriors Passage Trail is an 8.5-mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Tellico Plains that offers the chance to see wildlife, and it is rated as moderate.

The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. I think this is a good trail for a peaceful walk; the trail is not worn down, and the turns are well marked.

Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) – The Tennessee position of the BMT runs though the Big Frog Wilderness to the Ocoee River and Hwy 64, for a distance of 92.8 miles. The complete trail begins on Springer Mountain, GA and ends at Big Creek Campground at the northeast end of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. BMT was completed by volunteers between 1980 and 2005. It is largely a wilderness trail with few amenities or facilities. Although many sections of the BMT provide comfortable and scenic

day hikes, their remoteness often makes access difficult to find, but its beauty is well worth it.

I highly recommend the following adventure hikes. Each one with an amazing magical surprise at the end, a “Waterfall.”

Polk County -

Ridge Road for 3.5 miles. Turn left onto FS (Forest Service) Road 2138 for 0.9 mile to the Trailhead parking lot. 3 miles round trip, rated easy to moderate.

Lowery Falls Trail – From U.S. Hwy 411/TN Hwy 30 junction near Reliance, travel east 2.2 miles on Hwy 30. Park at Taylor’s Island parking lot on the left side of the road. Walk on Hwy 30 about 0.15 mile. Sign for the Trailhead (Trail 168) is located on the right. This area provides the hiker views of the waterfalls, rock bluffs and rhododendron tickets. Short hike 0.4 mile round trip, moderate to difficult.

Gee Creek Falls – From U.S. Hwy 411 in Delano, turn onto Gee Creek Road (mountain side of highway). Cross over railroad tracks and bear right. Travel 2 miles; the paved road becomes a dirt road ending at FS Trail 191 Trailhead in parking area. Round trip 2.0 miles, hike rated easy. Spring flowers dot the path.

Benton Falls Trail – From U.S. Hwy 64, follow the Ocoee Scenic Byway up FS (Forest Service) Road 77 approximately 7.5 miles to Chilhowee Recreation Area (McCamy Lake). The trailhead is located at McCamy Lake parking lot. It’s a 3-mile round trip, rated easy to moderate. The Fall is 65 feet high, making it a hikers’ favorite.

Rock Creek Gorge Trail – From the Ocoee Ranger Station, turn left onto U.S. Hwy 64 and travel 2.3 miles to TN Hwy 30. Turn left and go about 50 feet.

The Trailhead will be on the left with roadside parking on the right. 3.4 miles round trip, moderate to difficult. It takes you into the Rock Creek Gorge Scenic area, known for its beautiful waterfalls.

Coker Creek Falls Trail – From TN 68 in Coker Creek, turn right onto Ironsburg Road (C.R. 628) and continue 0.25 mile. Turn left onto Duckett

Monroe County -

Conasauga Creek Fall Trail – From Tellico Plains travel south on TN Hwy 68 2.9 miles.

Turn right onto FS Road 341 and go about 2.3 miles and turn right onto FS Road 341A for 0.5 mile to the Trailhead of CNF Trail 170. Trail 170 is 1-mile round trip, moderate difficulty. The waterfall is 35 feet. What a glorious view awaits!

Fall Branch Fall Trail – Approximately 1.5 miles from the Cherohala Skyway on CNF Trail 87. Travel onto TN Hwy 165 E (Cherohala Skyway) 20.9 miles. Park at

FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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the Rattlesnake Rock West pull-off, on your left. Take Trailhead FS Trail 87. A 2.6-miles round trip, moderate to difficult. This trail starts on an old road bed, then it cuts right, down a very steep hill. Not difficult to get down, but tough to get back up. But it is so worth the magnificent 70-foot falls. This is many hikers’ favorite.

Holder Cove Trail – From Tellico Plains, take Cherohala Skyway (TN Hwy 165) about 5.5 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 210 (Tellico River Road) and go about 13 miles, arriving at Holder Cove Campground. Trailhead to falls is at the west end of the campground on the right hand side of the road across from the camp restrooms. This is an easy trail and only 0.25 mile, but it is not normally marked. You must look for the worn trail between the trees.

Torino Falls Trail – From Tellico Plains, take Cherohala Skyway (TN Hwy 165) approximately 5.5 miles. Turn

right onto FS Road 210 (Tellico River Road) and go 9.8 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 126 (Bald River Road) and go approximately 6.4 miles to the south Trailhead of FS Trail 88. Cross the bridge over Little Cove branch, and the parking area is on the right. FS Trail 88 Trailhead is on the right side of the road before the bridge. The waterfall is about 2.2 miles up Trail 88, and it is an easy hike.

Trail Safety: More of these trails have no cell service. Ensure you have enough time to get to your destination and then your return trip before dark. Let someone know where you are going and when you will return.

Situational Awareness of your current and future weather is essential. Wear appropriate footwear. Do not wade streams to get to a waterfall. Be prepared. Bring water, food, appropriate clothing, bug repellent, flashlight, etc. Do not disregard “No Trespassing” signs.

All the waterfall hikes listed above are in the Cherokee National Forest.

Check out a few of our area Hiking Clubs.

They have many organized hikes that you could join. They also have volunteer groups for trail maintenance and upkeep.

Cherokee Hiking Club, Benton, TN: http://www.cherokeehikingclub.org/ Sequoyah Hiking Club, Madisonville, TN: http://wwwsequoyahhikingclub.org/ There are so many more hiking trails in the Tennessee Overhill and throughout East Tennessee, and I have only mentioned a few. For more information, contact the Tennessee Overhill office 423-263-7232 or visit our office at the L&N Depot Station in Etowah, TN. Ask for our newly updated Waterfall brochure and Visitor’s Guide.

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Meet

RANDY BOYD

ative Knoxvillian, entrepreneur and N business owner Randy Boyd believes that the best way to impact his community is through public service–and that’s just what he’s going to do. The 2018 gubernatorial hopeful is chasing the opportunity to serve as the 50th Governor of Tennessee as a way to give back to the state the Boyd family has called home since the 1800s.

“In many ways, I’ve been running all my life–running to be a better husband, a better father and now to be the Governor of Tennessee,” said Boyd. With the election over a year away, Boyd knows success will come down to one key ingredient: work ethic.

As the CEO of Radio Systems Inc. and former Commissioner of Economic and Community Development for Tennessee, Boyd has worked hard to get where he is today. His work ethic developed early in his South Knoxville childhood when his father, Tom Boyd, began bringing him to work every day. For a dollar an hour, he swept the floors until he was old enough to begin working the heavy machinery at his father’s electric fence company. He didn’t just learn a work ethic, however–he also learned

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resilience. Before his father focused on making electric fences for cattle and horses, he made something called a Fido Shock, a device to discourage dogs from knocking over metal trash cans by applying a gentle corrective shock. Unfortunately, only a year after Fido Shock was invented, so was the plastic garbage can, rendering the Fido Shock obsolete.

“But Dad showed me how to be resilient.

To persist and never give up,” Boyd said. At 8 years old, he watched his father start over in electric fences for cattle and horses and build a successful company.

Working with his father wasn’t the only thing that profoundly influenced Randy’s life. Growing up, he would spend about half his time in Vestal, attending the Immanuel Baptist church with his grandparents.

It wouldn’t be until he was married that he’d switch to Erin Presbyterian, where he and his wife have attended for 34 years, always sitting in the same pew his wife’s father sat at. “Every Sunday morning, we feel his presence there.” Boyd said.

First College Grad At age 16, Randy was ready to move on to the University of Tennessee, but his father was not supportive of pursuing a college education. He thought that Boyd could work in his factory and didn’t need a secondary degree. Determined to make the next step, Boyd struck a deal with his father that he would work for minimum wage at the factory to pay for classes at UT. “Every weekend, I would run injection molding machines, two twelve-hour shifts.”

Boyd recalls. “…It really showed me the value of work, and learned the value of education. If you want to make a difference in the world, it starts with education.”

While at college, he doubled down on coursework to graduate early and became the first college graduate in his family at the age of 19. As a newly-minted college grad, he decided to keep working for his father for four years before striking out on his own to start a company. Within a year, that company failed. Forced to confront his own failure but too full of pride to come back to working for his father, Boyd tried again. This time, he learned from his mistake.

A Job Begun He began selling fencing parts out of an old Dodge Maxi van in June of 1991. He would go from Florida to Georgia to Alabama, staying in the best hotels he could find for under $18. One of his favorites was a $13 a night place in Georgia. “I still remember that hotel,” Boyd remembers, and then laughs, “You never wanted to touch the rug there.” “…I didn’t have air conditioning in my van, and that’s because I was cheap.” Boyd said. “… but I didn’t have a radio because I wanted to make sure that I was listening to my customers.” In 1989, his customers started asking for the “Invisible Fence.”

They told Boyd that they would buy “as many as [he] could get.” So Boyd called the company in order to supply his customers’ demands.

When Invisible Fence refused to sell products to him, Boyd did some digging and found out their patent was about to expire. Seizing his chance, Boyd decided to make his own and sell it as a do-it-yourself product versus the professionally installed sales model the Invisible Company used.

An engineer quoted him $30,000 to design what he would call a Radio Fence. Randy recalls that while that may sound like a lot of money to some, it was more than his total net worth of $26,000. He and Jenny bet everything on the design of this one product. By 1991, they began selling the product. Randy hoped to sell 100 units a month, but instead, in the first month, he sold 3,000 units and $1 million worth in the first year. The next year, sales grew to $5 million, then $9 million and then $15 million.

Boyd is the founder and chairman of Radio Systems Corporation, headquartered in Knoxville, with over 700 employees worldwide and with offices in seven countries.

First started out of the back of Boyd’s van, the company today produces over 4,600 pet products under brand names such as Invisible Fence, PetSafe, and SportDOG. It is a privately held corporation with revenues of approximately $400 million. Boyd is also owner of Boyd Sports LLC, owner of the Tennessee Smokies Baseball team, the AA affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and the Johnson City Cardinals, a rookie league affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.

He also served in Governor Bill Haslam’s cabinet as the state Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, and earlier, while serving as the Governor’s Special Advisor on Higher Education, was the architect of the state’s Drive to 55 workforce development initiative, and the tnAchieves and Tennessee Promise scholarship programs to help more young people go to technical or community college tuition-free.

FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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Though those numbers look good on paper, success didn’t come to him overnight. For the first few years, “I was sleeping three hours a night, and we didn’t know if we were going to make payroll each week. It was very, very difficult times,” said Boyd.

Working out of his van, and then a 40-ft tractor trailer, Boyd had very little to help support his wife, Jenny, and their two-yearold son. This was where his father’s lesson kicked in. To persist and never give up.

Eventually, Radio Fence would give way to the Invisible Fence brand and Radio Systems Corporation. Today, the company makes over 4,600 products with 700 employees and sales over $400 million.

“God has blessed both Jenny and I beyond our wildest dreams. I feel like if I spent my whole life trying to pay back what I’ve been blessed to have, I’ll still die in debt,” said Boyd

Giving Back Overcome by a desire to give back, Boyd’s passion for education emerged as he recalled the trials of being the first college grad in his family. In 2007, he began exploring ways to impact the K-12 public school system in Knoxville,

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including potentially starting a charter school for at-risk students. He worked with Pond Gap Elementary School to develop a middle ground between public and charter schools–a community school. With the help of UT professor Bob Kronick, Dean of Education Bob Rider and countless other administrative partners, Pond Gap became Pond Gap Full Service Community School.

this model, Knox County has now rolled out 8 other schools funded through the Great Schools Partnership.

This concept expands the services of an existing school to offer evening programs for the whole family, from extra reading and math for students to GED classes for parents to dentistry services, along with a hot dinner for the entire family. Based on the success of

“I was very resistant because I thought that government was too slow and bureaucratic, and as a business person, I would never want to do anything like that, but he [Haslam] convinced me that if you want to make a difference, the place you can make

People began to notice Boyd’s education expertise, including Governor Bill Haslam.

In 2012 ,Randy served in the administration of Governor Bill Haslam as an unpaid advisor on education.

the biggest impact is in public service,” said Boyd.

His work resulted in creating the Drive to 55 and the Tennessee Promise. Tennessee Promise empowers more first generation students to enroll in community colleges and technical schools than ever before, with no additional cost to the taxpayer.

After his successful tenure as a special advisor on higher education, Boyd was appointed to Governor Haslam’s cabinet as the Commissioner for Economic and Community Development, a post that fit perfectly with his skills as an entrepreneur and executive.

As commissioner, his new “customers,” Tennessee citizens, showed him just how much work needed to be done for the state to thrive economically and educationally.

He saw that 19 of Tennessee’s counties were in distress, and 33 were at risk. That less than 50% of all Tennesseans got an education beyond high school. Yet his energy, coupled with revolutionary solutions, took him to all 95 counties of Tennessee in a quest to create job opportunities for rural and urban areas alike. Under his leadership, the private sector committed to creating 50,000 new jobs and investing $11 billion in the Tennessee economy.

Those that know him well know Boyd’s passion for public service isn’t just fueled by work ethic: it’s his boundless energy to push limits and never shy away from the challenge.

The race for governor may be a year away, but Boyd is busy visiting and revisiting all 95 counties and recently announced his plan to run 537.3 miles across the state from Bristol to Memphis.

In the meantime, you may just see him running down Kingston Pike in pursuit of making Tennessee the State of Opportunity.

Jenny Boyd Conserves Scottish Heritage

M

Music is not an artifact one can hang on the wall; it is a living, breathing thing. In order to preserve it, it needs to be played. No one understands this more than entrepreneur Jenny Boyd.

Though she grew up here in Tennessee, Jenny can trace her name back to Scotland. And the Scottish blood wasn’t just in her veins, it was splashed onto the music, too. Appalachian music actually came from Scottish and Irish tunes and eventually evolved into what we know it as today.

Jenny, who played the fiddle in a Scottish band (who she still plays with today), was given the chance to go to Scotland and play. While there, she witnessed events called “sessions.”

A common activity in Scottish pubs, sessions are when the audience and the musicians play together, singing songs both old and new. Whether they are young or old doesn’t matter, only their passion for the music. Jenny, enamored by the idea, decided to bring it back to the United States with her.

Jenny first found the building while on a walk with her husband, Randy Boyd.

It was a quaint room where Manhattan’s used to be in the downtown of the Old City. It would need repairs, but the room seemed perfect to bring Scottish traditional music back to life. She wanted to rent it, but then the first of the problems began: the people selling would not rent it out, only sell, and then renovate. And the repairs were “twenty times north of that,” according to Randy. The renovations, however, earned them a Historic Preservation Award.

The second problem came when they looked for a restaurateur to help provide food. Despite asking several locals for help, no bites. The pub had to have its own kitchen. This actually turned out to be a good thing, because having their own alcohols eventually led them to have the most scotch varieties east of the Mississippi–646, to be exact, as well as 800 whiskeys.

Despite these setbacks, Jenny set up and now owns Boyd’s Jig & Reel, meant to be a “home for musicians,” as Jenny said. Each night has its own musical theme, and the labor of love works to preserve the heritage of Appalachian and Scottish music. Jenny herself plays every Tuesday, and every other Thursday with the fiddle that started her journey to owning the Scottish pub.

FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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Smoky Mountain Service Dogs Serving Veterans in East Tennessee and Surrounding Areas Written By Halea Lingerfelt | Photography by Halea Lingerfelt and Kara Hudgens Photography Co.

M

any see the needs around them but never put actions to their desire to help. In 2010, Mike and Suzy and a few other individuals saw a large need in their community and decided to help those who had nearly given their all to our country. With a vision and a strong desire to change lives, Smoky Mountain Service Dogs organization was established.

What started as two puppy labrador retrievers and a few volunteers has grown into the only 501(c)(3) nonprofit, accredited Assistance Dogs International organization headquartered in Tennessee and the surrounding 12 states that utilizes nearly 100 volunteers. Smoky Mountain Service Dogs is an organization dedicated to serving those who so bravely gave to our country and have sacrificed physically or psychologically that now need mobility assistance in their daily lives. SMSD is dedicated to one simple goal: “To enhance the physical and psychological quality of life for

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wounded Veterans by providing custom trained mobility assistance service dogs (at no cost to the Veteran).”

On July 20, 2017, the organization “Passed the Leash” to their 20th Veteran recipient and their second female veteran to receive a canine companion.

The process of training and receiving a dog from SMSD is a labor of love and quite a diligent process. Dogs are trained by world renowned canine program manager, Heather Wilkerson.

Her experience includes training police dogs and working extensively on search and rescue missions all over the world. Lead trainer, Susan Randall, and staff trainer, Cassie Krause, complete the list of the only paid employees in the organization. The SMSD business model

allows 95% of all donations to go directly towards fulfilling the mission of enhancing lives of those they serve. In the 1800-2500 hours and $25,000 it takes to train a dog for service to a veteran, nearly 100 sets of hands will have worked with each dog to ensure they are ready to aid their new warrior. The extensive application process is open to any Veteran that qualifies for mobility assistance. SMSD founder, Mike Kitchens, said the organization is happy to have aided many Veterans in East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee and Kentucky. “When we began this organization, I was amazed to see that there were so many Veterans who needed help right in our backyard.”

How can you be a part of this life-changing organization? SMSD is kicking off their

Above, the “Passing the Leash” ceremony on July 20th, 2017. Above right is Marine Veteran Bradley with his SMSDog Bella.

Below is the training center located in Lenoir City.

campaign, “More Wags for Warriors” in October at their Annual “Night for Patriots” fundraising event that will be held this year at The Venue in Lenoir City. This extremely patriotic night will include dinner, a silent auction and testimonials from those who have experienced firsthand the life changing effects that are results of a mobility assistance service dog from SMSD. Special guests will be Wayne and Deby Kyle, parents of “American Sniper” Chris Kyle. They have recently presented the organization with a $225,000 donation as the 2017 recipient of the Chris Kyle Memorial Benefit. This money will be used to help jump start the building of the new SMSD Veteran/Canine Training Center on the organization’s existing training grounds in Lenoir City located off of Highway 321.

The new facility will include a state of the

art 18 dog kennel, grooming area, food prep area, medical/exam room and a 3500 sq. ft. Veteran Training area. This new facility will allow SMSD to double the number of severely wounded Veterans served annually.

Volunteers are always needed for simple tasks such as raising funds or being a weekend helper with dogs in training.

Smoky Mountain Service Dogs organization is a reminder that dogs and desires to better our community can successfully go hand in hand. One dog and one Veteran at a time, lives and the legacy of them, can be changed forever. For more information about SMSD, how to apply for a mobility assistance service dog, how to volunteer or how to buy tickets for this year’s Night of Patriots Annual Fundraiser, visit www.smokymountainservicedogs.org

FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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Written By: Lisa Grugin of Meadow Viw Greenhouses & Garden Center

Let’s get real, folks. I know darn good and well that most of you are not going to be doing a lot of gardening in the next couple of months. There are some things that you CAN do, however, on those occasional glorious mornings or evenings that lure us outside and away from the AC. Here are the most critical ones:

• Go out and do a good checkup on your yard. Yes, all the way out to the back corners that you haven’t visited since spring. Look up at your trees and see if there are dead or weak areas that need to be dealt with. Do you have insect holes, woodpecker holes or oozing sap? Do you have shelf mushrooms or lichen growing on the trunk? Is there sawdust at the base of the plant? Last year’s drought caused significant damage that will take a couple of years to heal, so keep your eyes open. I’m speaking from experience.

The Memorial Day weekend storms put a tree on my husband’s truck, and the storm last weekend put one on my house!

• Check smaller plants for disease and insects. We are seeing a tremendous amount of powdery mildew and other fungal problems on many plants because the humidity has turned our area into a fungal breeding ground. The winter was also not severe enough to kill back the insect

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population. This puts a double whammy on our weakened shrubs. Give us a call or stop by with a sample so that we can give you the best product to treat your issue. Remember to always treat with the least toxic product first!

• Check the ground for mole tunnels or vole holes. Moles do not hurt your plants, but they make handy tunnels for the voles (field mice) to travel through. Voles will eat the roots of your shrubs, and especially love hostas.

• Do maintenance on flower beds and gardens, even if they are in containers. Again, check for insects and diseases and treat/ replace/remove affected plants. Deadhead annuals and reapply fertilizer. Give leggy plants a haircut. If your flowers have gotten out of hand and are stressing you out instead of giving you joy, throw them on the compost heap and get some fresh ones! Life is too short for ugly plants.

• If your yard is naked and in need of larger plants, there are some trees and shrubs that can be planted now IF you are prepared to water them (unless we are getting at least 1” of rainfall per week). Once we move into the cooler months, it will be safe to plant larger trees. Fall is also a good time to supplement your perennial bed with late blooming and/or evergreen plants.

• Since I mentioned water, let’s talk about that. Water issues are by far the most common cause of plant death.

While sprinkler systems are great for grass and annuals, they are woefully inadequate for trees and shrubs. A goodsized Limelight Hydrangea can drink 5-10 gallons of water per day. A large Maple tree can suck down 5 gallons per inch of diameter in a week. A drip irrigation system or hand watering is critical for trees and shrubs.

• Did you plant a vegetable garden?

Keep harvesting to keep the produce coming! Make notes of what did well and what didn’t, and give us a call if you have questions. Don’t forget to make a note of where things were planted so that you can change it next year. I know it sounds silly to say you have to rotate your crops in a 4x4 raised bed, but it is critical that you do so. It is also important to keep an eye out for insects and disease so that all your hard work isn’t in vain.

• For those of you who do plant veggies, you can plant seeds of cool season vegetables (beets, bush beans, carrots, peas) once we get into mid-August. Later in the month you can plant cole crops such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. They will need to be protected from hot, late afternoon sun.

• Don’t let the weeds get the upper hand! Keep pulling them and applying pre-emergents, or put down a layer of newspaper or cardboard under your mulch to prevent seeds from germinating.

• Let’s talk about fall fertilizing. I think of fertilizers as multi-vitamins for your plants.

If you have good soil that you replenish with compost there is no need to fertilize, just like if you eat a well-balanced diet, you don’t need vitamins. Most of us don’t eat a well-balanced diet, however, and we are dealing with some hard clay soil. (I’ll talk more about that later.) Therefore, a little supplementing is frequently useful. The problem is, sometimes gardeners just throw random fertilizer down without knowing what their plants need. This can be like taking Vitamin A for a Vitamin D deficiency.

Here’s an example: Billy Bob keeps putting lime on his grass because his daddy put lime down and Billy Bob thinks that grass has to have lime. Billy Bob has azaleas all around his yard that are dying, and he doesn’t understand why. The reason is that the steady use of lime on his yard has caused the pH to rise, and azaleas cannot survive in alkaline soil. Here’s another example: Susie Q keeps fertilizing her hydrangeas with some random fertilizer that her husband had in the garage.

Susie Q has no blooms on her hydrangea.

That’s because she has grabbed a high nitrogen fertilizer that results in a beautiful green bush that doesn’t bloom. The bottom line is, educate yourself and/or do a soil test before you just start throwing fertilizer out.

• Now let’s talk about clay soil. I know that some of you have moved here from other places where there was actual black dirt. You aren’t in Kansas anymore, Toto. We have clay, which when mixed with sand becomes the brick that many of your houses are made of. It can be amended, however, and does a great job of holding nutrients. The trick is to amend, amend, amend. Compost, rotted manure and soil conditioner will all help. A soil test is best if an area is struggling. You can pick a kit up here.

• Take care of our feathered friends during fall migration. Keep feeders and birdbaths clean and full.

That is all for now. Please stop by or give us a call if you have questions. We want you to have a beautiful yard!

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A Hidden Gem in the heart of Historic Downtown Lenoir City 105 North A Street | Lenoir City, Tennessee (865) 816-6833 | www.thelacy.net

Majestic mountains, picturesque roadways and stately forests…these are just some of the offerings you will find in the land of quiet beauty that is Monroe County. Located just southwest of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Monroe County boasts Tennessee’s only National Forest, Cherokee National Forest; the Cherohala Skyway, one of America’s Byways; and fantastic attractions like the Lost Sea, Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, Fort Loudoun State Historic Park and Tsali Notch Vineyard.

With a variety of fun for all ages and friendly faces aplenty, Monroe County is your perfect family vacation destination.

www.monroecountytourism.com 40

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Featuring a large collection of brightly colored wool, hand stitchery supplies as well as designer fabrics, patterns and notions.

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Pickin’ and Grinnin’ All Day

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G

INNOVATOR • SCIENTIST • ENTREPRENEUR NEAL CALDWELL

rowing a successful garden takes time, patience, a lot of hard work and one very important aspect—the right tools. When Neal Caldwell and his wife, Alice, built their home in Knoxville, Tennessee, they certainly possessed the determination to tackle their difficult yard, and fortunately, Neal had the innovative know-how to create the tools they would need to make their garden grow. What began as a project to beautify a plot of land others saw as useless developed into a series of inventions and even a successful business!

Neal Caldwell is a graduate of Knoxville High School and the University of Tennessee, where he earned degrees in both physics and mathematics. For 40+ years, the seeds he began to sow in his own backyard led to numerous successful products and the birth of Dalen Products, Inc., which manufactures innovative, quality gardening products.

Of the products Dalen offers, Neal is especially proud of the Dalen Great Horned Owl.

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Each Dalen Owl is hand-painted by American workers and serves as a scarecrow to frighten various critters away from developing gardens. The Dalen Owl has had several modifications over the years, including the additions of solar power and a swivel head that moves in both wind and sun to make it appear more lifelike. Neal enjoys interacting with his customers and encourages them to send in photos of the Dalen Owls they see or what his supplies have helped build.

In germinating the seeds of trust with his consumers, he builds relationships and proves that gardening can truly bring people together.

In addition to building a successful business, Neal Caldwell has helped build up his spiritual community at the Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church, where he has served several roles over the years, including deacon, elder, Sunday School teacher and superintendent, small group leader and a community Bible study leader.

Not only does he volunteer for his own church, he was also on the building committee as chairman for the New Covenant Presbyterian Church.

His heart for serving the community has led him to volunteer as a Board of Directors member for Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM) and to work for several charities abroad and here in Tennessee. Neal also believes the growing seed is the most important part of development and needs to be cared for in order to grow into a healthy individual plant. This is why he invests in young people by serving on the Board of Trustees at King’s College, as well as the Jobs Partnership Board of Knox County.

Neal tirelessly works to grow and improve his community, from helping others cultivate a garden to improving their daily lives through charity and volunteer work. The seeds of his tenacity and generosity continue to spread throughout our region, leaving a lasting legacy that will bloom for many years to come.

www.dalenproducts.com

Look for Dalen Products at Walmart, Tractor Supply, Costco, Bass Pro Shops, Ace or your local garden supplier.

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photo on home page of website

Hometown Heroes Saving Lives In Africa A common misperception about the water problem in Africa is that there simply isn’t enough water for its people, when the truth of the matter is this…there is plenty of water, just not enough clean water. This problem is something TivaWater is helping to solve.

TivaWater is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Knoxville and founded by David Ragland and Doug Harris, who conceived the project after a mission trip to Uganda. They had the vision to help create a home water filter that would be both affordable and effective at filtering out harmful dirt, disease and bacteria.

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INVENTOR NEAL CALDWELL Photo of Neal with filter

Local innovator and inventor, Neal Caldwell, is equipped with a unique set of gifts and talents that included and engineering degree with over 30 patents, the ownder of a successful plastic manufacturing company, and almost 40 years of experience serving on the board of a water treatment plant that uses sand. He is credited with the patents for both TivaWater 1.0 and TivaWater 2.0.

Neal came up with a fairly inexpensive solution.

A household sand filter that could remove up to 98% of harmful dirt and disease.

In 2008, they called upon local innovator and inventor, Neal Caldwell, to help design their filter.

filter have noticed a dramatic decrease in illness among their children, and that is a result that is truly priceless.

For Neal, it was a no-brainer. He has always had a heart for helping people, and the crisis in Africa truly inspired him to develop a solution. What he came up with was surprisingly simple and fairly inexpensive— a household sand filter, TivaWater 1.0, that could remove up to 98% of harmful dirt and disease. The product is simple, durable and easily transportable. Each TivaWater filter costs $100 and provides water for five years without the filter needing to be replaced, but most importantly… it saves lives. Families using the TivaWater

The first round of filters (3,200 in all!) were distributed in Uganda in 2011. But because men like Neal Caldwell are never quite done innovating, there is now a TivaWater 2.0, which offers improved flow rate and size. Over 170,000 people now use the TivaWater filter, including the Ugandan Minister of Water.

If you are interested in learning more about TivaWater or donating to this very worthy cause, visit their website at www. tivawater.com

TAKE NEAL CALDWELL’S CHALLENGE: WATCH THE VIDEO AT WWW.TIVAWATER.COM FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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Chelsea Harris:

Full-Time Cheer Warrior One of the first questions we ask kids is, “what do you want to be when you grow up?” Right from the start, we’re expected to have a plan for our lives. Sometimes, however, the plans change. For though we make a plan of our own, God already has a plan. And, as Chelsea Harris discovered, that plan can be more than we ever imagined, so long as we take the time to follow His will.

Chelsea Harris wanted to be a gymnast.

Ever since she was young, Chelsea had been on the mats, stretching and tumbling and working towards a hopeful future of a college gymnast. She continued this work throughout her time from Vonore Elementary to Sequoyah High School, balancing gymnastics with school

and performing with her high school’s cheerleaders. When she successfully crossed the tightrope, she decided to attend the University of Tennessee, influenced by her family’s strong support of the Vols and everything that came with it. When she attended, however, she discovered something. In college, she would not be able to continue her gymnastics routines.

She would have to give it up as she worked towards a BS in Communication.

Though she could no longer be a gymnast, Harris found something else suited to her skillset- becoming a college cheerleader.

Though many think cheerleading is a sidelines sport, Harris thought otherwise.

Leading cheers was serious. “It takes

dedication.” She said. “You have to be committed.” And not just dedicated on the field, either. A Tennessee cheerleader, as her coach Joy Postell Gee said, is always in the spotlight. Though Chelsea doubted this at first, a young fan taught her how important she was to the fans.

“I was at a restaurant with a friend,” Harris recalled, “when a 10 year old girl came up to me and said, “You’re my favorite cheerleader.

You took a picture with me and my friend two years ago as you were were in a hurry to get into the stadium after the Vol Walk.” She then showed me the picture on her iPhone.”

That was when Harris knew she wasn’t just a cheerleader- she was a role-model.

Taking the lead in the cheer, Chelsea tried to be a role-model not just for the fans, but her fellow teammates. Trusting in her teammates was the most important part of working together. “We were a family,” Harris remembered, “more than just a team.” For anyone who saw a game at the University of Tennessee, the bond between cheerleaders who’d worked hard to get where they were was both obvious and infectious.

Her greatest inspiration, as she cheered, was her coach, Joy Postell Gee. “She was like a second mother to me.” Harris said.

Gee encouraged them, both on and off the field, to be committed to their roles.

She committed herself to be a Tennessee

Cheering for Vonore Elementary and Sequoyah High School

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they 48

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cheerleader. In between classes she would practice intensely to perform at her best at each game. But as graduation grew near, Harris was struck with the realization that she couldn’t be a Tennessee cheerleader forever. Harris didn’t have a clue what she wanted to do with her life.

“I was hit with a feeling of ‘now what?’.”

Harris said about the time. “So I decided to fast for three months from my phone so I could think about my next step.”

Though she would still check social media on her computer on occasion to keep from missing important events or to stay in touch with far away friends and family, the time normally spent on her phone was spent in prayer and deep reflection on what God wanted her to be. This time paid off when she realized what she wanted to do: start her own business. She would begin an all-star cheerleading gym, inspired by Isaiah 40:31. She called her new business Soaring Heights, and got to work on making it a reality.

Building a business by herself soon became more difficult than Harris originally realized. Everyone she talked to gave her conflicting advice on how to manage her own business. “You can’t do it this way, you can’t do it that way.

It was constant.” Harris remembers. “I couldn’t please everybody.” Harris had to find out what worked for her and her

gym on her own. “That,” she said, “was the hardest part of starting a business.”

Once she got off the ground, she strived to help and allow cheerleaders of all calibers the opportunity to attend her gym. She took steps to set up a booster club and fundraising opportunities for those who loved the sport and needed extra financial assistance. Chelsea also pushed the athletes to continue to cheer at the college level as well, since she enjoyed her experience as a college cheerleader.

Harris now manages her business as well as acts as the volunteer assistant coach for the University of Tennessee Volunteer Cheerleaders. There, she passes on what she’s learned to her charges- lessons of commitment, of leadership, and of spirituality.

God has blessed Harris with opportunities beyond what she could have imagined, and all it took was listening to His call.

Chelsea not only credits God to her success, but her parents, as well. “I give tons of credit to my incredible parents Tim and Tina Harris and I’m so thankful for the way they raised me and how they gave up and sacrificed so that I was able to live my dream.” She said.

Chelsea believes that God had given her the talent to lead, on and off the field. She wants to use this talent to help others reach their full potential, not just in cheerleading, but as members of society itself.

will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Soaring Heights

753 Highway 321 North Lenoir City, Tennessee 37771 (423)506-4940

www.soaringheightscheer.com

Isaiah 40:30 FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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experience no one will forget. The beauty of it is that Castleton will customize the “glamping” to suit your group’s particular style and need. And, did I mention the Farm is absolutely gorgeous?”

Glamping

A Fresh Option for Team Building & Social Gatherings

A

re you looking for a unique and memorable way to do team building with your work crew? Trying to come up with something fun for a bachelorette party, sorority event, birthday celebration, family reunion or “Girls Weekend”? How about giving “Glamping at Castleton Farms” a try?

“Glamping” is camping without having to “rough it!” We all romanticize camping to some degree and recognize the benefits it affords for bonding and enjoyment. Images of good conversation, singing around an open fire, falling asleep under the stars, waking up to a piping hot mug of coffee, and watching the sunrise all pass through our minds - until we remember the nasty mosquitoes, hard ground, and not so hot coffee.

This past Spring Castleton Farms welcomed its first group of “glampers” on property - the Farragut Middle School Cheer Team! The team’s coach, Megan Aaron, was looking for

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an opportunity to bring the girls together away from their normal surroundings so they could all get to know each other better and practice in a fresh environment.

The girls arrived and were immediately busy creating their own personal space.

No sleeping bags here! The Farragut Middle School Cheerleaders were each assigned a beautifully draped “room” in The Carriage House complete with a mattress, bedding, and chandelier! Their customized package included decorating supplies for them to personalize their “rooms” which was a fun project to help them get to know each other better and the perfect activity for middle school girls.

“They had such a great time, “ shared Coach Megan, “The activities and environment were perfectly planned for our group to bond and have some fun.

I would recommend this experience to any group wanting to bond and create an

The next 24 hours included fun, games, bonfire, group meals, midnight snack, and even a practice session with The University of Tennessee’s cheerleader, Chelsea Harris!

I think it is safe to say that fun was had by all.

“The girls are still talking about the experience!” said Coach Megan. So, do you want to go “glamping?” Whether you’re a sports team, youth group, business colleagues, or friends needing a “Girls Night Out,” the team at Castleton would love to talk to you about your vision for your group’s night of “glamping.” Whether your goal is team building, celebrating a birthday or just making new memories, Castleton will assign you your own “Camp Director” (a.k.a. Planner) to help customize an experience that will accomplish your vision and goals.

Castleton Farms is a stunning 114 acre property complete with rolling lawns, mountain views, skeet shooting field, Manor House, The Carriage House, a covered Pavilion, pond, croquet lawn, fire pits, woods, and outdoor meeting areas.

Your “Camp Director” will help you plan an itinerary that will meet your group’s needs in the best way. The possibilities are endless and we guarantee your group will have a unique experience that will keep them talking for years to come.

Why not try something new? We can’t wait to have you and your group out to the Farm for some “Glamping!” Call us today and let’s start planning your night away from it all.

FALL 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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Photo by Carlo Reveiv, CRFOTO.com

Farragut, which returned just 10 starters from the 2015 season, embarked on a run that ended with it winning its first state football championship in program history. A double overtime victory over Ooltewah in the Class 5A quarterfinals paved the way for the Admirals to get to the championship game, where it had to rally from a 28-point deficit to beat Independence.

Farragut Football For the Win! It’s football time in Tennessee! Time to watch your favorite high school football teams compete in a game of speed, skill, and strength.

This year, the Farragut Admirals have big shoes to fill. Named the News Sentinel’s 2017 Team of the Year, the Farragut Admirals received the award after winning their first state championship in 2016. This year they’re going after the title again.

Named after the Union Admiral David Glasgow Farragut, Farragut High School was originally constructed in 1904, and moved to its current location in 1976. The school has had many successful athletes who graduated, including Bill Bates, who played with the Dallas Cowboys and University of Tennessee, Neil Clabo, who played with both the University of Tennessee and Minnesota Vikings, and Tyson Clabo, who played Wake Forest and the Atlanta Falcons. Farragut was further decorated with three awards at the field- the anchor from the USS Farragut gifted in 2006, as well as the star, also placed in 2006, and the gun.

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The roster for 2017 has many fine young men on their team, like Andrew Williams, Tucker Jones, Jon Buel, Nathan Morgan, Griffin Swicegood, and Jaden Gibbs as the wide receiver/defensive back. Isaiah Gibbs is the runningback and defensive back, while Max Travis and Gavin Wilkinson act as quarterback/defensive back. Robert Brewster and Jackson Fontenot play wide receiver and outside linebacker. Jason Maw is tight end and defensive end.This is certainly not the full roster, which can be found at Farragut Football’s website, but it is a taste of what you’ll be in for as you take your seat to watch the game.

Coaching these men is Head Coach Eddie Courtney, who has served 36 years on Farragut staff. Assisting him are coaches Tom Doucette, Geoff Courtney, David Hawkins, Reese Browning, Hal Brooker, Gerald Robinson, Chris McNeer, Marcus Huie, Chase Scott, Alex Cain, and Albert Fontenot.

With an exciting line-up, fans and parents

are chomping at the bit for the season to begin. You won’t have to wait long for the Varsity games. The first game is an away game on August 18th, held at and against Bradley Central. This game, and every other unless otherwise noted, starts at 7:30. The first home game is on August 31st, against Morristown West. The Junior Varsity games are played at the same place, but start at 7 rather than 7:30.

The full schedule, subject to changes, is on the Farragut Football website.

2017 SCHEDULE 8/18 at Bradley Central 8/25 at McMinn Co. 8/31 vs. Mo-West 9/8 vs. Oak Ridge 9/15 at Jefferson Co. 9/22 vs. Knox-West 9/29 vs. Science Hill 10/6 at Dobyns Bennett 10/13 vs. Bearden 10/20 Bye Week 10/27 at Hardin Valley

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Monday Sept. 18

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Our mission is to strengthen and support our community by growth, Our mission is to promoting strengthen business and support our education communityand by economic development. promoting business growth, education and economic development.

The trees may start their wind-down in the fall, but that’s not the case for the Chamber! Fall is full of opportunities for businesses and community members alike to become involved:

New Business Members Get Oriented Although the Chamber keeps a consistently busy schedule with weekly business networkings and nearly as frequent ribbon cuttings all year long, fall sees a bi-annual orientation especially for new members.

The fall orientation welcomes new chamber members, new staff of existing members or any chamber member who would like to brush up on all the ways that the chamber can help foster their business’ success. Any business that is not yet a member, but would like to learn more, is also invited to this mini-networking and overview of benefits. Chamber staff, Ambassadors, Board members, and Town of Farragut representatives are present to answer questions.

The fall orientation takes place on Tuesday, September 12 at the Farragut Town Hall boardroom with networking and refreshments from 7:30 to 8:00 am and the 1-hour orientation beginning thereafter.

Guests can also tour the adjacent Farragut Museum that morning. Bring business cards to win door prizes and exchange with other new businesses! RSVP to Suzanne@ farragutchamber.com.

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Vets & Pets to be celebrated at Fall 5K Area veterans will be recognized and celebrated at the Chamber’s 23rd Annual Farragut Fall 5K, Fun Walk and Pet Parade on Saturday, November 11 (Veteran’s Day) at Mayor Bob Leonard Park with an 8:00am race start. The Chamber will donate a portion of all registrations to the Smoky Mountain Service Dogs, a non-profit that trains mobility assistance dogs for qualifying veterans who apply and donates them to that veteran at no charge. Dogs take approximately two years to train, amassing costs of $25,000 per dog.

Now in its 3rd decade, the Chamber’s longstanding Farragut Fall 5K event sees an estimated 250 participants who can choose to run the USATF-sanctioned 5K course or walk/jog the 1-mile course.

One-mile participants have the option

of bringing a canine companion along! The first 50 dogs receive an extra-special “Doggie Bag” of fun treats. Humans will receive a special-edition long-sleeved t-shirt and goody bag with additional coupons for veterans (while supplies last) and be eligible for door prizes. Cash prizes and medals are awarded annually.

Early registrations are $25. Teams of 4 or more receive a $5/person discount.

From 11/5 through 7:30am on race day, registrations increase $5. Registrants are encouraged to park on the Harrison Road side on race day, November 11, to accommodate park improvements. Preregistration links are currently at www. farragutchamber.com

or www.facebook.com/ FarragutFall5KFunWalkandPetParade.

Sponsorships for this event are a fantastic way for businesses to highlight themselves to the community and participants prior to the 5K and beyond.

Chamber membership is required; contact the Chamber at 865-675-7057 or info@farragutchamber.com to learn more. The Chamber thanks Presenting Sponsor Town of Farragut and Community Sponsor First Utility District for their early commitment!

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Though my first hot air balloon ride was a year ago, I remember my husband’s reaction to the idea like it was yesterday.

My mother bought the package experience at our Chamber’s auction and wanted to “gift” it to us. I was thrilled. Him? Not so much. While he supported my crazy idea to get into an untethered balloon thousands of feet in the air, it was not happening for him. He explained matter-of-factly his refusal was Bible-supported: “It says, clearly: ‘LO, I am with you!’”

That’s how mom and I ended up at a Balloon Pilot’s meeting before sunrise at Tsali Notch Vineyards for the Muscadine Balloon Fiesta. As we listened to wind and temperature reports, I took a photo of the pink and orange streaks creeping over the grapevines, backlit by blue hills. I texted it to my husband, hoping the clear sky would give him a sense of peace about what I was about to do.

As the meeting ended, it was realized Mom and I arrived too late to fly together. Within minutes, Mignonne from The Bingham Group found each of us a single spot in separate balloons. I asked mom if she was okay with going alone. You could see anxiety at the change of plans but mom is a trooper. She lets nothing stop her once her mind is made up. They led her away with one of the pilots and pointed me downfield to a truck with a trailered basket.

I met pilot Phillip MacNutt and his wife Renee as they were being helped by another couple to prep and inflate the

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balloon. Renee was hampered by one arm in a sling; it barely slowed her. The other couple had gone to several balloon events before; they were clearly “pros” at this. It surprised me to learn the husband, a kind older gentleman with an English accent and fear of heights, would be a first-time passenger like me.

I was overwhelmed by the setup process.

Phillip and his wife made it seem easy— they knew their balloon inside and out (no surprise; Phillip made it himself). Yet it was clear details had to be tended to; a mistake in setup could be costly once airborne.

Climbing into the basket was no graceful feat; it had high sides. Turning around was a calculated act. But the awkwardness of the space evaporated the minute the balloon left the ground. A few seconds of rocking to get aloft and then: magic. To this day I struggle to convey the peacefulness I experienced in that balloon. Once you adjust to the occasional firing of the torch (or because of the contrast), you hear almost nothing. No wind rushing by. An occasional cow below. It is like being suspended in time, like you’ve managed, once and for all, to silence all the everyday noise around you. It’s beautiful.

My husband says today that I almost convinced him to get into a balloon with that description. Then, I told him about our landing. I’ve since read about other balloon experiences; they say that landing basket-upright is not guaranteed even on a peaceful flight. Phil was an excellent pilot,

describing landing stance, where to hold on.

We’d land in someone’s backyard; the community had been prepped for that possibility.

Still, as we approached the ground, Phil realized the incline of the field was steeper than it looked. To avoid the trees nearby, we would have to lay the basket down. I held onto the ropes, facing inside the basket, knees bent, as the basket touched down and tipped us all over, me on the ground side.

I’d have paid money to have a photo of that moment: Phil trying to pull himself over the top side of the basket, me laying in the grass laughing from adrenaline and the poor English gentleman stuck and suspended in mid-air, trying to not to fall onto me with one of my hands against his back, but unable to escape without doing that. As we waited for Phil to climb out to help him (seconds), I received an accented apology for the awkward situation along with the quip that I’d have to tell his wife if it was enjoyable! On the ride back to the vineyard, I did tell his wife the whole story, and we laughed like old friends over it.

Phillip and Renee took us back to their truck and christened us with champagne (literally) as they recited their version of Balloonist’s Prayer over us. I had never heard it, and it described the experience better than I ever could: “The winds welcomed you softness.

The sun blessed you with warm hands. You flew so high and so well that God joined you in your laughter and set you gently back into the loving arms of Mother Earth.”

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The Legend of Coco Belle Written By Marvin Harper | Photography By F.A. Dockery

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ack in 1959, Esther Gray and her late husband Sanford purchased an unusual bit of Coker Creek history.

It wasn’t a nugget of gold, a pottery jar or an arrowhead, but a grave site.

And it wasn’t just any grave site. This grave site was, and is still believed by many, to be the century-old burial place of Coker Creek’s legendary Indian maiden, Coco Belle.

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Belle really buried in that immortalized grave in Coker Creek?

“We always believed that an Indian was buried there and it has always been said in the community that it was Coco Belle’s grave,” says Esther.

History credits Coco Belle with trying to keep peace between the white-man and the Indians during the early 1800’s, before Coker Creek became a part of the infamous Trail of Tears. Over 4,000 of the 17,000 Indians died from hunger, disease and freezing weather during the 1838 and 1839 march out West.

Today, the grave site is marked by stones piled waist-high in a wooded area on Esther’s property fronting Highway 68 in the middle of Coker Creek. The grave is situated on the side of what was once known as Hot Water Hill, but in more recent times has come to be called Coco Belle Ridge by adjoining property owners. Cabins and roads have been constructed nearby but the grave has remained intact.

It is said that Coco Belle made the trip several times to aid her fellow Indians on the long journey and to help them establish new homes upon their arrival out West.

But one question still remained: Is Coco

When the Grays purchased the grave site in 1959, it was part of a 160-acre parcel the couple eventually turned into the Tellico Mountain Youth Camp.

Records show that in the years before the

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Grays purchased it, the land had passed through the hands of three other families and one gold mining company.

There was already plenty of folk-lore surrounding the grave site when Esther and Sanford Gray made the purchase.

They were especially aware of the time-honored tradition of tossing stones on the grave and the consequences of removing them.

“The saying was that for good luck you throw a rock on the grave and for bad luck you take a rock off,” explains Esther.

For their young, curious campers, the temptation was often too much.

“We had two or three instances where little boys didn’t believe it and they took a rock off,” she says. “They took one off and sure enough they fell down or scraped a knee or something and we reminded them of that saying,” she says with a grin.

Esther Gray points out where the grave site of Coco Belle is located in Coker Creek on a map of Monroe County.

It is not known where the rock-tossing tradition originated but it is said that Coco Belle herself may have made the request before she died.

Esther, now 86, says that while it was rumored that the previous owners of the property had allowed the directors of a museum in Knoxville to excavate the grave, she and her husband saw no evidence of that happening. “The stones were still piled on it when we bought it,” Esther stated.

Some historians believe that in her later years, Coco Belle married a white settler named John Coker and that she went by the name of Betsy Coker for the rest of her life. She and her husband are said to have started a small store in Coker Creek which catered to travelers on the Unicoi Turnpike, a popular wagon trail which ran through Coker Creek.

When the Grays sold a portion of the 160 acre tract 20 years ago, they decided not to sell the little 16 by 40 foot strip of land

making up the grave site. Esther said her late husband wanted the grave of Coker Creek’s best known Indian maiden preserved. “We were glad to have it and to be able to take care of it.” Esther said.

The Grays closed Tellico Mountain Camp back in 1988. During the years since her husband’s death a decade ago, she has passed up the offers of those wanting to buy the grave site, fearing that the hallowed ground might be lost forever to roadways or home-sites.

Even today, with the site of the old Tellico Mountain Camp property up for sale and the adjoining grave site to be sold with it, Esther is concerned about the grave. “I would like to see the grave site preserved and I hope that whoever buys the property will want to see it preserved too,” adds Esther.

For now, Coco Belle’s final request appears to have been honored. The stones remain piled high over her grave and her legend lives on in the little community of Coker Creek.

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Anakeesta: A Tree Home Away from Home

ANAKEESTA, there’s magic in the mountains!

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Tree houses are a quintessential longing of childhood. The idea of clambering up a rickety wooden structure to a place entirely your own for summertime adventures tickles the fancy of any outdoorsy kid. The call of adventure has produced many a fantasy series - magic tree house, anyone? - but before now it was only parents with big backyards who could give their kids the space. With Anakeesta opening this fall, however, the magic opens up for everyone.

A Vision Wonderof ofthe theTrees Trees Wonder artisanal goodsmade madebybySmoky Smoky Mountain artisanal goods Mountain PiBob Beta created the, co-partners Pi Beta PhiofElementary andPhiKaren Bentz Anakeesta, Anakeestaisisaatree whimsically themed tree up Anakeesta house village opening residents, Pearl’sPie Pieininthethe Sky, craftsmen, to Pearl’s Sky, a a School, the Arrowmont School of Arts and enjoyed hiking the 55 acres adjacent to their villageinopening up inInGatlinburg inhouse Gatlinburg September. order to get restaurant onbaked bakedgoods goodsand and restaurant focusing on Crafts, and cabin started thetheir cottage industry Gatlinburg with children each in the orderride to the get open-air to it, guests toinit,September. guests can In either four cool wayto toenjoy enjoy coolice icecream. cream. And what better way Smokies.

Finally, 6-7 years ago, they summer when vacationing in the area. decided When can ridechair, the chondola; either a person or they canchoosing ride the Chondola. blueberry thanto tosee see blueberryice icecream cream or barbeque than that properties acquired would theythe learned that thethey’d property was to be sold be 4 person air chair thein6the person The first ofopen its kind to be or built United Gatlinburg 360degree degreeglory, glory, as well Gatlinburg inin360 as well as as fine onPitheir and reached decidedout to leave by the Betaown, Phi’s they to thethe Gondola Theboasts first ofaitsfantastic kind toview be States, thecabin. chondola marvel theview viewofofMt. Mt.LeConte.

LeConte. marvel at the area.

This was when Anakeesta came in. of Fraternity to learn more. Following months the United States, the ofbuilt theinscenery of Gatlinburg as itfixed-grip travels up For those who prefer a more thrilling communication, and a trip to Texas to meet boastsFirefly a fantastic of thein the toChondola a place called Village,view nestled experience (because 60 ft off the For those who prefer abeing more thrilling the Pi Fraternity. They negotiated the Awith Vision scenery of Gatlinburg as itvillage travels up to heart of the forest. Firefly is the first ground just (because isn’t thrilling there are experience beingenough) 60 ft off the purchase of the 55 acres., co-partners That is whenof the vision Bob and Karen Bentz Firefly Village, nestled in the heart of the part of Anakeesta’s development.

Containing dual ziplines to race down the mountain. ground just isn’t thrilling enough) there are for Anakeesta was born.

Anakeesta, enjoyed hiking the 55 acres forest. fairy Firefly is the first partshops of several andVillage tree house themed Anakeesta is not justdown a pretty on the dual ziplines to race theface mountain. adjacent to their Gatlinburg cabin with their Anakeesta’s development.

Containing and restaurants, Firefly Village is just the mountain, worksface to preserve Anakeesta however. is not just aItpretty on the A culmination Bob andwhen Karen’s children each ofsummer vacationing in several fairy you’d and tree housetucked themed shops sort of place imagine away in the rich memory of Gatlinburg. mountain, however.

It works to preserve the pastarea.When experiencesthey led to the vision the learned that the and restaurants, Firefly Village iseverything just the an enchanted wood.

It contains rich memory of Gatlinburg. that is now property wasAnakeesta. to be sold The by the Pi Beta Phi’s sort of place you’d imagine away in from a fairy-themed children’stucked shop called History of the Mountains couple, both graduates of the to learn they reached out to the Fraternity History of the Mountains an enchanted wood.

It contains everything Catching Fireflies, to the Great Outdoors Before the Great Depression, there was Pi University of Tennessee more.Following months ofand communication, Before the Great Depression, there was from a fairy-themed children’s called Trading Company, which boastsshop a variety of former and a tripNational to TexasPark to Rangers, meet with the Pi PiBeta BetaPhi. Phi.It Itwas was1912 1912and andthethegroup grouphad Catching Fireflies, to the Great Outdoors traveled to Gatlinburg to establish eventually founded a companythe in purchase of Fraternity.

They negotiated had traveled to Gatlinburg as literarya school Trading Company, which boasts a variety of for the local community.

There were no South For more thanthe 25 vision for the 55 Florida. acres. That is when missionaries. There were no public education public education programs at the time was and not years, theirwas firm born.

Land Design South, was the Anakeesta programs at the time, and the group while they metDespite some resistance first, the premier landscape architecture, land planning well-received. the frostyatreception, school was soon booming with students by in the area.of Bob and Karen’s past Afirm culmination they bought acres of land, and began trying the summer of 1913.

They soon bought 35 experiences led to the vision that is now to improve the lives of those who lived there. acresestablished of land and established and Their professional backgrounds, combined Anakeesta.

The couple, both graduates of the They healthcare healthcare and businesses other businesses.

As conditions in the Smoky with their love of the great outdoors and University of Tennessee and former National which sold local weaving made by the MountainsThese improved leading intowhat the 60’s, the town of Gatlinburg, and Park Rangers, eventuallyinspired foundedBob a company residents. businesses were keptPi Beta Phi created theduring Pi Betathe PhiGreat Elementary to Florida. sell their For successful inKaren South morelandscape than 25 years, many families afloat School, theAs Arrowmont of Arts and architecture firm Design to dive whole-heartedly their firm Land South, was theinto the Depression. conditions School in the Smoky Crafts which are still in operation today. development of Anakeesta. premier landscape architecture, land Mountains improved leading into the 60’s, planning firm in the area. Additionally, the Bentz’s continue to own a land development FARRAGUT LIFE FALL 2017 firm, Atlantic Land Companies, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Enter Anakeesta via a scenic Chondola or a 4-person chair. A 14 minute ride takes you up 600 feet to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. The fixed-grip Chondola is the first of its kind built in the United States.

Children of all ages will love the whimsically themed treehouse village playground.

Discover what it is like to walk in the canopy of the trees on 16 hanging bridges and wonder at the beauty of the forest floor below. Or zip through the treetops on Anakeesta’s two unique ziplines. Stretching high over the forest floor, each zip is over 1,000 feet in length and will give you beautiful views of the Smokies while zipping right next to friends or family. Along the way you’ll be able to test your courage at our two challenge stations where you’ll rappel off our platforms and enjoy a controlled 60 foot descent to a cushioned platform below.

Zipline guests return to the summit by riding the Chondola from the mid-station.

Closure Setbacks and Recovery The Gatlinburg 28th, Fire was a terrible disaster for On November 2016 the Great Smoky the region. Many homes and Mountains National Parkwere and destroyed, the surrounding people their lives.

Bob, Karen, and areas oflost Gatlinburg experienced a historic Michelle all suffered loss homes in its scorching hands. fire. More than 2,800 and structures But wereand determined continue. werethey burned tragically,to14 people lost Anakeesta building on the parts their lives.continued Bob and Karen personally lost 5 that had grown back, letting blackened bits to family owned cabins and sustained damage heal.

Theyofbelieve that, by building a place a portion the Anakeesta property as well. up residents cantocome and look Buthigh, theywhere were determined continue on around the Smokies, and see new with theatproject.

With every setthe back comes a life emerge theAnakeesta ashes, thatthat it willmeant bringthat silver liningfrom and for closure those who lost everything,views and were with thetoloss of trees, breathtaking now must fresh start. There are still openmake at thearidgeline. parts of Anakeesta that were burned, along with the rest mountain.

But thosea natural have In addition to of thethe views, the fire revealed begun to grow alonginto depression in theback, landand thatwill will recover be developed with theairrest of Gatlinburg. forfor those a open amphitheater withAnd seating up to who see the newatgrowth, Anakeesta 500. want Othertofuture phases Anakeesta includes isa mountain a beautifulcoaster magical treewinter houseofvillage. in the 2017, a restaurant, bar and dining pavilion in A Memorial Walk dedicated to the early 20172018 and 35 treeFire. house cabins in the near future.

Devasting www.anakeesta.com www.anakeesta.com

A Memorial Walk dedicated to the 2016 devasting fire.

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Happenings: September 2-3

Muscadine Balloon Fiesta

September 12 National Chocolate Milk Shake Day Enjoy your favorite ice cream treats in downtown Knoxville at The Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain.

September 14 Taste of Blount When: 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

Where: Tsali Notch Vineyard located at 140 Harrison Rd., Madisonville, TN 37354 The two-day annual balloon festival will return to East Tennessee with the 5th Annual Muscadine Balloon Fiesta. Enjoy balloon rides (additional cost), live music, food, games, an inflatable Kid’s Zone and much more all while supporting CASA Monroe. The finale each night will be a Balloon Glow set to music with at least 20 colorful hot air balloons beginning at dusk. For additional information visit www. muscadineballoonfiesta.com

September 8 October 13

Movies on the Square Where: Market Square TIme: at dusk Friday nights from September 8, 2017 through October 13, 2017, Market Square will transform into an outdoor movie theater where folks bring their chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. More information and movie line up available at www.knoxlib. org/calendar-programs/programs-andpartnerships/movies-market-square

September 9

University of Tennessee VS. Indiana State University For full schedule, please visit www.utsports.com

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When: 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

Where: Theater in the Park in Maryville Come and try savory favorites from local restaurants, caterers and gourmet grocers in addition to voting for their favorite appetizer, main course, sandwich, dessert, beverage, presentation and overall winner. Tickets, which are $25 for Blount County Chamber members, $30 for the public and $15 for students 17 and under or those with a college or student ID, are available at the Chamber office (201 S. Washington St., Maryville, Tenn.), by phone 865.983.2241 or online. For additional information visit www.blountchamber.com/ community/taste-of-blount/

September 15 - 17

DOG DAZE @ Village Green presented by TDS will be a 3 Day Festival of fun, food, shopping and competition!

SHOP FARRAGUT and Town of Farragut have teamed up with Smoky Mountain Dock Dogs & Ricki’s Pet Depot to bring a nationally sanctioned regional canine aquatics competition of DOCK DOGS INTERNATIONAL (http://dockdogs.com/).

The festivities will take place in the Village Green Shopping Center parking lot, just south of Stein Mart and the new Planet Fitness. For more information visit http:// www.farragutbusiness.com/dogdaze.html

September 16 & 17

Where: South Gay Street HoLa Hora Latina’s signature event highlights the diversity of the Hispanic culture while extending a cultural salute to the East Tennessee community. Enjoy a rich mix of music, dance, food, arts, crafts, heritage tables, a Parade of Nations and children’s activities. For more information, please visit www.holahoralatina.org

September 22October 29

Oktoberfest at Ober Where: Gatlinburg, TN Ober Gatlinburg is celebrating October with a fantastic festival featuring Bavarian-style food, drink and music, but you don’t have to don your finest lederhosen or dirndls to be a part of the fun. For more infomation, please visit www.visitmysmokies.com/ events/oktoberfest-at-ober/

September 29-30

26th Annual Fall Heritage Festival and Old Timers Day When: 9 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.

Where: 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Townsend, TN 37882 Bring your lawn chair and enjoy genuine bluegrass music, arts and crafts, food, and Fall festivities for the entire family at the Townsend Visitor’s Center. For additional information visit www. tennesseerivervalleygeotourism.org/ content/townsend-fall-heritage-festival-andold-timers-day/tena199e1d8bd519b355 or call (800) 525-6834.

September 30

UT Home Football Game University of Tennessee VS. Georgia

October 1

Chamber Classics Presents’ Frankenstein!

Where: Bijou Theatre Time: 2:30pm For more information, please visit www.knoxvillesymphony.com

October 12- 29 BOO! at the Zoo

October 20-22 Maryville College Homecoming

Where: Knoxville Zoo Time: 5:30pm- 8pm BOO! at the Zoo presented by U.S. Cellular® is Knoxville’s largest Halloween event featuring 12 nights of safe and not-tooscary Halloween fun perfect for preschool and elementary-aged children. A Halloween tradition for 31 years, BOO! at the Zoo is a family event featuring trick-or-treating along the BOO! Trail, where little trick-or-treaters can fill their bag with goodies as they make their way through the zoo. Each night of BOO! at the Zoo will have a variety of entertainment.For more information, please visit https://www.zooknoxville.org/event/ boo-at-the-zoo/

Where: World’s Fair Park 5K Walk/Run Start Time: 8:30 a.m.

Family Fun Run/Walk Start Time: 9:00 a.m. For more information, please visit http:// komeneasttennessee.org/knoxvilleevents/komen-race-for-the-cure/

October 7-8

October 28

The Smoky Mountain Orchid Society’s 2017 Orchid Show & Sale Sat. 7 Orchid Sale Area Open to the Public 9-5pm, Sat. 7 Orchid Show Are Open to the Public 11-5pm, Sun. Show & Sales Areas Open to the Public 12-4pm Hosted by Stanley’s Greenhouse. What a perfect time to enjoy the fall color at the greenhouse while you view the outstanding orchids on display after being judged by this year’s certified judges of the American Orchid Society. Learn more about orchids (the largest plant groups in the world), and big a gorgeous orchid (or two!) from orchid vendors who will be joining us for the special event. Admission is free! For more information call 865-573-9591 or visit stanleysgreenhouse.com

October 14

UT Home Football Game University of Tennessee VS. South Carolina

Where: Maryville College All of your favorite activities return this year including, the Decade Bash on Friday, Oct. 20 at 7:00 pm, the Homecoming Choir on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 11:00, the Parade at 1:00 pm and the Fighting Scots take on Methodist at 2:00 pm on the gridiron! Plus so much more! For more information, please visit https://www.maryvillecollege. edu/alumni/events/homecoming/

paintings, drawings, photography, and fiber art. For additional information visit www. mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/events/ spring-taste-art-wine/.

October 31

October 21

Komen Race for the Cure

Halloween at the Island Where: The Isalnd in Pigeon Forge Time: 5pm- 9pm Bring the whole family to come and enjoy Halloween at the Island in Pigeon Forge!

For more information, please visit http://www.visitmysmokies.com/events/ halloween-at-the-island/

October 28

Fall Taste of Art and Wine Cades Cove Cellar When: 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Where: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center Art and wine, the perfect pairing. The Townsend Artisan Guild and Cades Cove Cellars are coming together for a Fall Taste of Art and Wine. Beginning at 10:00 a.m., guests may view beautiful artwork and enjoy the taste of locally made wine.

Local artists will display

November 4

Townsend Grains and Grits Festival Where: Townsend Vistor Center Time: 4pm-9pm The Townsend Grains and Grits Festival is a festival of southern spirits and gourmet grub. We have created a unique opportunity for you to experience our thriving craft spirits and gourmet food community, while discovering some of the region’s lefendary distillers and blenders, taking place in the Peaceful side of the Smokies. For more information, please visit http://www. grainsandgritsfest.com/info.html

November 10

Veterans’ Day Parade For more information, please visit https://www.visitknoxville.com/listings/ veterans-day-parade/1265/

November 18 UT Home game University of Tennessee VS. LSU.

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YOUR OPIOID ADDICTION DOES NOT HAVE TO BE A DEATH SENTENCE

Every 6 hours a Tennessean dies from an overdose death. That means 4 Tennesseans die every day from overdose deaths.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, seek help now by calling the 24/7 State-wide

TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789

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