McMinn Life - Summer 2014

Wetlands Summer Habitat

A Beautiful Way To Prevent Flooding

Japanese Gardens

Tranquility Through Nature

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The Smith Reunion

14 Gardening Solutions

How One Man’s Invention Can Help Your Garden Grow

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ETOWAH’S

Contents features Heil Trailer The Best Of The Best

Summer Time Treats

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Wetland’s Summer Habitat A Beautiful Way To Prevent Flooding

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Finding Peace In The Japanese Garden

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More Than Just Tomatoes

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FRIED GREEN TOMATO

F E S T I VA L September 6, 2014

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9 am – 4 pm

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38 The Robertson Family

departments

Turning Their Backyard Into The Perfect Get-Away

4 Letter From The Editor Pat Chester 34 Joe Guy Cherokees in Charlestown

A Local Place For Local Talent

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46 Happenings Schedule of Events

McMinn Regional Humane Society Changing Animals’ Lives For The he Better

Englewood Celebrates

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June Days

The 28th Annual Community Festival

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McMinn Life PUBLISHER

The Bingham Group President Lisa Atkins Bingham Local Editor Pat Chester Graphic Designers Sloan Burton Dustin Hayes Michael Hyneman Sam Morris Ben Salter

Letter from the Editor

I am amazed at the hidden jewels of McMinn County that continue to be revealed to me. I have walked and enjoyed the wetlands at E. G. Fisher library and even helped plant trees there but to see the wildlife through the lens of Richard and Joyce Leamon’s camera have made me more appreciative of that jewel. What a treat it was to explore the history of Lane Town school and the gracious Smith family who welcomed me to their reunion.

How special I’ve felt to be invited into the “get away” of Annette and Roger Robertson. They have such a special place nestled in their farm and share it freely with their family and church. Who would have thought we would have a Japanese garden in McMinnCounty, but Jack and Susan Haddock have enjoyed working tirelessly to provide such a peaceful place. Another surprise was when I went to Margie Guffey’s to write a story of gardening, but I came away with a delightful love story that touched me deeply.

I’m sure you’ll also learn more about some local businesses and fun events for the family that are offered during the summer. Don’t forget to support our local restaurants too. We’ve featured three in Etowah that are sure to please.

As you enjoy your summer, I challenge you to see how many hidden jewels you discover right here in McMinn County.

Contributing Writers Pat Chester Mark Cochran Joe Guy Chris Hari Jennifer Nunley Shawn Lindsey Emily Walls Cover Photo Robert Burleson Contributing Photographers Susan Haddock Bruce Hari Lisa Kinard Joyce Leamon Richard Leamon Tammy Lee Renee Nicolo Lauren Brown Shepherd Copy Editor Jennifer Porterfield Web Vincent Radford Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com Chris Hari Tel: 423.435.1650 chari@binghamgroup.com Subscription or Editorial Inquiries Tel: 865.523.5999 Fax: 865.523.0999 www.mcminnlifemagazine.com The Bingham Group, Inc. 11921 Kingston Pike, Suite 201 Knoxville, Tennessee 37934 www.binghamgroup.com www.mcminnlifemagazine.com

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Summer Time Favorites in Etowah Sweet Tea’s Bakery & Café We wanted to show you the makings of Sweet Tea’s club sandwich so we cut it in half, but the whole sandwich and one side will certainly call for a glass or two of sweet tea. ($8.95)

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Allycakes The chicken pot pie ($7.99) is like no other. A crisp crust caresses the warm and flavorful chicken filling.

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Eva’s Bakery Individual Cheesecakes are one of the mouth watering sweets at Eva’s. Strawberry and Turtle are just two of the favorites ($2.25) 400 Tennessee Ave, Etowah 423-263-0083 12

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Eva’s Bakery These fried pies are only offered on Wednesday’s and had patrons coming in droves. The fillings are made at the bakery of fruit that is in season. Apple is featured here. ($2.00)

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The Smith Reunion at Lane Town School

By Pat Chester Photos by Renee Nicolo

The Smith family knows where they will be each Labor Day weekend. R. T. and Etta Smith host the annual gathering on the family property of the old Lane Town School that was opened in1938. It is a one-room school that had one teacher to instruct 30 or so students from grades one to eight.

There was an outhouse for boys “a ways” from the school and one for the girls on the opposite side. A separate building close to the cistern called the “Soup Kit” was used for lunch.

Sometimes, the parents that lived close by made lunch in their homes and served it in that building. Other times, the children that lived close walked home for lunch while the others brought theirs.

Two of the teachers mentioned were Miss Louise (Jones) and Miss Zelma (Ferguson), and they had the task of teaching multiple grades. They had to be strict, but the parents always backed them up. While reminiscing with Joe, Rufus and Phillip Smith, they talked about how their older siblings would always look after them but how it always got home if they had been a rascal in school. When necessary, their teacher told them to go outside and bring in a switch for her to use, but you knew that you’d get it again at home.

Even though the teacher had the task of teaching eight grades, she would welcome four- and five-year-olds from families where both parents worked.

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Caggie Scruggs was one of those that started at four and ten years later went on to Cook High School. His granddaddy, Joe Lane, gave the land for the school, hence the name Lane Town. The Smith family members are all descendents from him, and what a grand time they have at their annual reunion.

We arrived on Sunday at 11:00 to find a huge tent set up with tables and chairs waiting for lunch and fellowship. There was much greeting and meeting as family members filed out of their cars or walked from neighboring homes. At

about 11:30, people started going into the old schoolhouse to have church. This family doesn’t “go to church”, they “have church”. Five pastors were behind the pulpit, with a beautiful choir of ladies to the right. There were announcements, singing, scripture reading, praising our Lord, witnessing, singing, memories

spoken, testifying, prayers, singing and a thought-provoking sermon. The building was packed on a hot summer day for two hours of “church”, and it didn’t seem that long at all.

After church, there was picture taking, visiting and food being placed on a long row of tables the length of the tent. Food kept coming out of cars and family homes close by. Around 2:00, all gathered to bless the food. The preachers and guests were asked to go first but there was more than plenty of food for all. The women served the main meal and the men the desserts, all the while encouraging you to take more. Our extra large plates were heaping over with the best soul food I have ever had…ever!

As good as the food, was I was a part of something else very special. During the reunion, I witnessed a community of family that welcomed their guests with loving arms. I also saw how the younger ones revered their elders by seeing to their needs and treating them with value. I heard a lot of laughter and memories re-told while making new ones. There seemed to be a lot of respect and loving patience.

This Smith family knows how to feed the body and the soul.

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Below: The Smith Family Reunites

Above: Former students of Lane Town School SUMMER 2014 McMINN LIFE

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Wetland’s Summer Habitat at EG Fisher Library

By Shawn Lindsey

T

Photos by Richard and Joyce Leamon | Background Photo by Bruce Hari

he Library Wetlands project was developed by the City of Athens in a floodway on a field that could not be built upon because doing so would cause water to be displaced and add to our flooding. The floodway in that area next to EG Fisher Library needed to be protected and enhanced to mitigate the flooding problem in Athens. In addition, the library did not have the money to mow the existing field. The Wetlands created a new park and revenue source for the library and extends their programs into a wonderful outdoor classroom. The Wetlands not only serves to reduce flooding in Athens, but also creates a

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natural habitat to give visitors a look into the past.

The Wetlands also represent seven ecological zones and the almost total absence of nonnative plants, from fescues to invasive and exotic plants, creating a glimpse into the past. This is the same world as seen by the first European settlers to this breathtaking area over 300 years ago and enjoyed for thousands of years by the Native Americans.

The habitat helps to improve water quality and creates an impressive

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diversity of wildlife. The fish and amphibians in the water, along with all the beautiful dragonflies and birds, create an almost mosquito-free environment due to the abundance of predators.

As our many guests and locals walk the paths, they will see various shore birds, song birds, and birds of prey, along with a long list of dragonflies and an abundance of butterflies, some of which are shown here. We thank photographers Richard and Joyce Leamon, who are just some of the frequent visitors at the Wetlands. Now, you must walk the paths to experience for yourselves the wonders of nature.

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Jon Dewey and his 6 foot tomato plants.

MORE

VEGETABLES FOR LESS WORK

By Pat Chester

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J

on Dewey lives in Etowah and like many of us enjoys growing vegetables.

As gardeners know, there is nothing like going out in your backyard to pick fresh vegetables for you and your family to enjoy but also to share with friends. Along with that joy comes frustration when you have a small space, or there is a drought, or pests prevent your plants from growing to

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their full growth. Jon used that frustration to invent some solutions.

He not only grows better vegetables but the plants are larger and produce more fruit so therefore need less growing space.

His patented WaterStick Grow System is a device that allows you to water and fertilize your plants at root level.

Normally 10-25% of the water you use on your plants actually get to the roots.

To remedy that the WaterStick allows you to water and fertilize where the plants need it; the roots.

Many gardening books suggest that when planting tomatoes you remove

the lower leaves and plant 6 to 8 inches deep in the soil. Jon’s invention allows you to water and fertilize deep which allows for a better root system and larger plants with more production.

He has also developed a fertilizer and an organic insect repellent and the instructions for all three are in his book, The 20 FOOT Tomato Plant.

Yes, you read that correctly. Before Jon became disabled he was growing tomato plants reaching over 20 feet and averaging 150 to 200 pounds of tomatoes per plant. I can taste a sun ripened tomato right now.

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Happy4 ofJuly

th

aThens Fireworks Celebration July 4th, at Athens Regional Park

A Parks and Recreation Event.

For more information, call 423.744.2704.

Tellico Plains

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57th Annual Dance on the Square June 28th 5pm—whenever

Independence Day Celebration Friday July 4th 6am - Registration begins for road race (you can pre-register at active.com) 7:30am - 5K Road Race begins 9am - Road Race ceremony at gazebo 10am - Vendor set-up. All vehicles out by 1 p.m.

11:30am - Registration for cornhole tournament at Fire Hall #2 12pm - Cornhole Tournament begins at Fire Hall #2 2pm - Parade line up at K-mart 3pm - Parade begins 3pm–4pm - Registration for karaoke contest in the Duck Park (18-20 people MAX) 3pm–9pm- Music at Duck Park (Karaoke Contest & Hi Strung Band) Kid Zone opens Vendors 3:30pm–6:30pm - Karaoke Contest at Duck Park 3:30pm–5pm - Bluegrass music at Gazebo ( Journey Home & Clay Hollow Boys) 5pm-Sweetwater Gymnastics demonstration at the gazebo Pool closes- cars out of rec complex 6pm–8:30pm - Bluegrass music resumes at gazebo 6:30pm - Hi Strung Band at Duck Park 8:30pm - Dancing in the Streets with Salt & Light Studios 9:30pm (Dark)- Fireworks by Pyro Shows

Contact us: 423.253.2333

eTowah Old Fashioned Fourth of July July 4th 7:30am Pancake Breakfast followed by a 5k Road Race and Fun Walk. There is also a beauty pageant for children, as well as a Pooch Pageant.

There are family-fun games, live entertainment, and food & craft booths.

A live band performs from 8—11 with a fireworks display at 9:45.

Contact the Etowah Area Chamber of Commerce at 423.263.2228 or email info@etowahahcoc.org

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FRIED GREEN TOMATO

F E S T I VA L September 6, 2014

9 am – 4 pm

History Preserved… by Fried Green Tomatoes

W

e all have history somewhere. A Northerner by birth, I have fond memories of visiting the Eerie Canal museum and singing the old song — low bridge! A Southerner at heart, I also recall visiting Andrew Johnson’s home in Greeneville on a middle school field trip and being enthralled by all of the historical items on display.

And in Niota, Tennessee, exists another such historic place that lives in the hearts of many who are dedicated to preserving what is the oldest standing depot in our great state.

Every year, the Niota Depot Preservation Committee hosts a family-friendly event known as the Fried Green Tomato Festival, a truly noble fundraising effort celebrating an iconic Southern dish.

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Locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy not just fried green tomatoes, but many fun-filled activities. There is a beauty pageant, historic tours, recipe contest, car show, games for kids, live music and crafters.

There is sure to be something for everyone, but the best part about this fantastic community event is that the proceeds help to preserve an important piece of our local history— the Niota Depot.

For more information about this year’s event, contact Frances Powers with the Niota Depot Preservation Committee at 423-887-5297 or 423-887-3631, or you can e-mail Rebecca Owens at rebeccaowens@tds.net.

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Finding Peace in the Garden

Japanese

By Pat Chester | Photos by Lisa Bingham | Some are entered by Susan Haddock

P

eaceful, is the best way to describe the Japanese style garden of Susan and Jack Haddock. To enjoy that feeling of peace now, it took these two gardeners a lot of time, sweat equity, physical labor and love, but they gave freely because both truly enjoy working together.

Susan’s fortunate enough to live where her grandparent’s farmed and also to have her mother live on the same farmstead. Susan grew up in Georgia and continued to live there while she and Jack worked and raised their family.

Jack retired first and they decided McMinn County would make a good home. As Susan said, “He needed a project to keep him busy”, so Jack built their home in 1996 where the old barn stood. Susan later retired and joined him full time in their new home.

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Jack’s father served in the Air Force in Japan, so most of Jack’s informative years were influenced by the Japanese customs and people. Hence, the garden. In 2010 they decided it was time to transform their back yard that was now mainly cedar trees and scrub but was once a cow pasture. Some space was needed to be opened up so Jack manned the chain saw while Susan helped fell the trees with a rope and tractor.They needed to cut approximately 60 established trees to allow for a beautiful Koi pond and rock waterfall. Many trees were left but trimmed so that lower growing trees and shrubs could be planted and also provided shade for sitting and reflection.

Japanese

Being true to the Japanese style, this hard working couple brought in four truck loads of pea gravel for a total of over 96 tons and over 100 tons of large

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rocks for the waterfall and bluestone pavers for the patheways. That’s not to mention the designing, digging and redigging of holes for the trees and plants. As any gardener knows, you must move plants around until you find the location they thrive in best. Many of the plants have come from special friends and cherished family members.

Others have moved with them during their marriage and others purchased for that specific location.

the sight of a hummingbird perched on a leafless branch; Jack had left just for that bird.

Except for the water feature, which was designed by Dream Ponds in Knoxville, this peaceful Japanese garden is a labor of love by one special couple.

The Haddocks are members of the East Tennessee Koi Club. If you would like information please call 423-310-6808.

Of course this is what we see but below the surface is drainage, lighting and drip irrigation that they designed and put in themselves. This allows for not only a healthy garden for us but for the wild life to thrive as well. Thank goodness, I didn’t see any of the good snakes on my visit but I did have butterflies land on my shoulder and I heard the birds singing. I thrilled at

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House Blend Concert Series

By Jennifer Nunley Photos by Lauren Brown Shepherd

A

nyone who is fortunate enough to call McMinn County home knows that we have a wealth of musical talent honed in the homes and churches nestled in the lush green valleys and fields of our region. What may be less known is that budding artists have a place where they can be heard and heralded – where they can find a larger audience right in their own backyard.

“It has always been our mission to provide quality arts experiences for our community, and we’re also committed to providing opportunities for artists to share their talent,” Lauren Brown Shepherd, Executive Director of Athens Area Council for the Arts, explains. “I kept hearing, ‘There’s nothing to do

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in Athens,’ and I knew that we have tremendous talent in the area, so the natural solution was to create a regular professional-level concert experience for our community, by our community.”

There was never any issue finding musicians to fill the bill. Building an audience for new programs is sometimes a challenge, but that would never deter passionate arts advocates in McMinn County. The Arts Center reached people from all over the region through word of mouth and a strong social media campaign, and at the first event, which featured Athens music scene regulars, Lindsey and Andrew Kimball, an audience of over a hundred voted to name it House Blend Concert Series.

The Arts Center hosts at least four House Blend concerts a year; two of those produced by AACA’s planning committee, which selects the performers, and two as “open mics,” for which performers from the region may sign up. AACA’s “Open Mic” and similar shows like “Evening With the Stars” have become a proving ground for regional favorites such as Lindsey and Andrew Kimball and Kinslee Melhorn, as well as newcomers such as Samuel Goodman and Courtney Holder. Courtney joined five other

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area musicians for the April 2014 House Blend Concert Series show Girls of Country. “As a newcomer to the Athens music scene, I loved being a part of Girls of Country,” she says, “and blessed to be surrounded by other artists and fans who support local singer/songwriters.” Fellow Evening with the Stars recruit, Samuel Goodman, appreciates the chance to network and open doors: “I wanted to gain some recognition since I’m new here, and to maybe get shows in the future.”

For Andrew Kimball, House Blend is an opportunity to try out new music and get instant feedback from fans. “It has

been an outlet to test my own music out to people. Other venues aren’t as accepting of new things you’ve written, but this is a great platform to stretch yourself and relate with other artists.”

Andrew is often joined on the stage by his recent bride, Lindsey Nunley Kimball, who is a seasoned performer in her own right. “Andrew and I actually met at The Arts Center, and events like House Blend have allowed us to make music together.”

“I’m so pleased for The Arts Center to be a home for these up-and-coming artists,” says Lauren. “I hope that this series will help them grow and gain the experience they need to graduate to bigger venues, and we’ll be able to say, ‘I knew them when they played in House Blend.’”

AACA invites local talent to take the stage this August 8th, when House Blend Concert Series returns with a coffee-house-style open mic.

Local favorite, Kinslee Melhorn agrees, “I really enjoy getting to meet and perform with other musicians and do what we all love to do!”

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Joe Guy historian

Cherokees in Charlestown, 1759 “Hidden History”

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n the fall of 1759, the Cherokee Indians were deeply concerned about a trade embargo decreed by the South Carolina Colonial Governor, William Lyttelton, who was angered over some Indian attacks on his frontier. The British had within the past few years built two forts deep within the Cherokee lands: Fort Loudoun in the Overhill Country and Fort Prince George on the Keowee River in the Lower Country.

That September, group of some 30 Cherokee Chiefs left their towns and traveled Southeast along the traders’ path known as the “Northwest Passage” to meet with Governor Lyttelton in Charlestown. The trail led from near present Vonore to Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and through Unicoi Gap, then on through Murphy and Franklin, North Carolina before passing over the upper most tip of Georgia. The path then crossed the Chattooga River into South Carolina, where it led through present day Clemson. The Cherokees stopped here at Fort Prince George before turning south near present Greenville. From here, the Cherokees would have more or less followed the

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general route of today’s Interstate 26 Southwest through Laurens, Congaree, Dorchester, and Monks Corners. After a month of walking 500 miles though the mountains and the South Carolina low country, the men arrived in Charlestown.

The Cherokees had found themselves dependent on the goods they acquired form the English traders, and hoped that Lyttelton would be merciful to them.

After all, they had no control over what a few angry young warriors had done in the spring under the influence of a French Spy. All they wished was to be able to trade, and to live peaceably with

their British neighbors, especially those stationed in the two frontier forts.

But Governor William Lyttelton was an arrogant, overweight, pompous man with little regard for what he considered to be “savages”. He was in no hurry to hold an audience with the Chiefs, but at the behest of Lieutenant Governor William Bull, be finally agreed to see them.

The Cherokees, led by the war chief Oconostota, were taken to the Governor’s room in the South Carolina State House on Broad Street.

As was their custom, Oconostota directed two of the Chiefs to bring up tokens of peace: several fine animal skins and strings of white beads.

The Great Warrior then addressed Lyttelton through an interpreter: “Great Father, I present these skins as a token of peace, sent by Old Hop, the Little Carpenter, and others who wish to make the path straight, and brighten the chain, and accommodate

Governor William Lyttelton

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our differences. It is our wish that you know the offenses which anger our Father were committed by young warriors provoked by the French.

My people wish to—“ Chief Oconostota

It was then that the Governor cut him off: “I will not accept these token of peace today,” said Lyttelton dryly, “nor talk anymore of peace with the Cherokee.”

The Cherokee were shocked at the insult. But Lyttelton was not finished.

“Many times I have heard the Cherokee say they are my friends. But time and time again your actions have proven

As you have at least attempted to come to Charlestown and make a show of friendship, you may return home. But I have in my hand a dispatch from the Commander at Fort Prince George, who writes clearly of the bad behavior of the Cherokee around him. Be it known to you and all these with you that I will soon lead a large force of my soldiers to your country, and then you will know the demands I have set for peace, and the satisfaction that I will require.” Without a thought, Lyttelton directed his guards to show the Cherokees out.

remaining twnety-four chiefs at Fort Prince George, the English soldiers killed every Indian hostage. Lyttelton’s actions would eventually lead to what became known as the Cherokee War, when Fort Prince George in South Carolina and Fort Loudoun in the Overhill Country were both put under siege by the Cherokee during the summer of 1760. When the men and women at Fort Loudoun finally surrendered in August and left the fort to attempt to get back to Fort Prince George, the Cherokee attacked at Cane Creek near Tellico Plains, killing twenty-four people and taking the rest as prisoners. It was said that the twentyfour lives were to pay for the twenty-four chiefs taken prisoner by Lyttelton and killed at Fort Prince George.

The Chiefs saw Lyttelton’s threats clearly, and as they left the State House, knew that bad times were on the horizon. Soon, they would find themselves placed under guard by the Governor and held at Fort Prince George. Oconostota and a few others were able to gain their release, and when they attempted to rescue the

Today the old South Carolina State House still stands on Broad Street in Charleston, and is now used as the Charleston County Courthouse. It remains a part of the Fort Loudoun story, the place where an English Colonial Governor set in motion events that would cost the lives of both Cherokees and whites, 500 miles away in what would become East Tennessee.

differently. I see that you are only pretending to be deputed to me, but you are not.

Joe D. Guy is a nationally published author, newspaper columnist, and historian residing in McMinn County.

Contact Joe via email at guyjd@hotmail.com or PO Box 489 Englewood, TN 37329.

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June Days Festival

Written by Mark Cochran

With a row of historic buildings lining Main Street, a silver water tower adorning the skyline and residents who knew their neighbors by first name (or in most cases by nickname), the Town of Englewood had all the key elements of small-town America, except for one thing—an annual festival.

That last piece of the puzzle finally fell into place in 1986 when communities across the State of Tennessee organized celebrations and festivals in recognition of Tennessee Homecoming ’86. According to the University of Tennessee Special Collections, the Homecoming ’86 initiative was enacted to provide “Tennesseans an opportunity to rediscover their past, identify the uniqueness of their own communities and invite other

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Tennesseans to celebrate with them.”

In cooperation with the statewide initiative, Englewood Mayor Bob Middleton selected Marion Cochran, a retired local school teacher, to chair the Homecoming ’86 Planning Committee. Cochran assembled a small group of Englewood residents and organized a celebration for the last week in June which featured softball games, Englewood High School class reunions and a large banquet for former students of EHS. The week’s events culminated with a large festival on Saturday and a community-wide church service on Sunday. The festival incorporated a pancake breakfast, bluegrass and country music, arts and craft exhibits and even a Saturday night square dance on Main Street.

Tennessee Homecoming ’86 was a roaring success in Englewood.

Turnout was impressive with hundreds of former and current residents coming together to celebrate their town’s heritage and to enjoy the fellowship of old friends. Due to the overwhelming positive response, the Homecoming Planning Committee saw no reason for the celebration to end after one year, so when the last weekend of June 1987 rolled around, the citizens of Englewood gathered once again to hold their newly established annual festival, June Days.

Twenty-eight years removed from Homecoming 86’, the celebration continues in Englewood. Although some still know the festival as June Days, its official title has changed to Englewood Celebrates. Staying true to its roots, however, Englewood Celebrates is very similar to the festival started nearly three decades ago. Pancakes are still served on Saturday morning as the sound of local bluegrass wafts through the town

streets, and come sundown, Main Street is closed as hundreds pack Downtown Englewood for the evening dance. The tradition of community worship has also continued as the town’s churches come together on the following Sunday night for a mass church service. Englewood Celebrates boasts new attractions as well, including a motorcycle show and poker run, an antique tractor show and numerous food and craft vendors.

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The Homecoming 86’ Planning Committee would eventually become the charter members of a local non-profit organization known as the Community Action Group of Englewood which is more often referred to simply as CAGE. Today, CAGE’s headquarters is located in historic Downtown Englewood, and the organization continues its mission of preserving and promoting Englewood’s unique heritage with the operation of the Englewood Textile and History Museum and the numerous community events like Englewood Celebrates that it organizes each year.

Community pride is distinctively palpable in Englewood, Tennessee.

It has been prominently on display now for three decades thanks to a homecoming celebration that turned into a tradition and a small group of active citizens who became a safeguard of local culture.

Saturday, June 28, 2014 Downtown Englewood Pancake Breakfast 7am Music, vendors and food 8:30am—1pm Square Dance on Main Street at 7pm Sunday Night Community Service June 29, 2014 6pm at Englewood Church of God

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Get-Away in Their Own Backyard Written by Pat Chester Photos by Tammy Lee and party Lisa Kinard

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ost people need to get away to relax by either going to a favorite vacation spot or they might have a second home at the beach, lake or in the mountains. That doesn’t suit the lifestyle of Roger and Annette Robertson. When you farm and especially when you dairy, your get-away time is in snippets. Of course you still need time to relax so first they built their pool and in 2006 decided they needed a larger pool house. After some thought, they decided to build an outdoor kitchen with a sitting porch and eating area. They did enclose a bathroom and two storage rooms.

The kitchen was enjoyed more than they had imagined so last year they enclosed it for year round use.

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And use it they do! Annette and Roger both have boundless energy and are always welcoming family and friends to enjoy their pool and entertain frequently utilizing the outdoor kitchen. The day we arrived they were going to have a family get together that night and two days later they were expecting at least 150 for dinner. Those lucky folks are members of First Baptist Church in Athens. They call themselves the “Sunday Night Crowd” and they take the fourth Sunday in the summer for a fun night of fellowship and dinner. The group requested again this year to come to the Robertson’s. What a wise choice they made!

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The outdoor get away is a wonderful place to start your day with a newspaper and morning coffee and as good a place for a couple to recap the activities of the day. It’s equally as good a place to share with your friends and family.

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Celebrating 60 years!

From our establishment in 1954 by the employees of Bowaters Southern Paper Corporation to serving the whole community today, your credit union is still the place where you can be sure that everything we do, we do for you.

The proof that your credit union is not-for-profit and member-owned is shown in our:

Loans with low rates Savings designed for to help you meet your goals

Checking without fees or strings Call or visit us today and see what its like to own your financial institution.

Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government

EQUAL HOUSING

NCUA

National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency

LENDER

Bowater Employees Credit Union • Athens • Calhoun • Cleveland 1112 Congress Parkway S. • Athens, TN •37303 www.bowaterecu.org • 423-252-1140

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We write guaranteed funeral pre-need policies that exlude no one, regardless of health or age.

For more information, call Brian Miracle at (423) 263-6700.

Funeral Home & Cremation Center

300 Tennessee Avenue Etowah, TN 37331 (423) 263-6700 Toll Free (866) 243-6319 www.serenityfunerals.com

Serving all of McMinn County and the surrounding area.

Direct Cremation, $695- this charge includes removal of remains-$195 Crematory fee- $400 Cardboard alternative container- $100 Immediate Burial, $1,295-this charge includes immediate burial fee -$400. A cloth covered oval top fiberboard casket -$895

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Sweet Memories in Margie Guffey's Garden Written by Pat Chester

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love sweet stories and if you know Jim and Margie Guffey or have ever been blessed with being in a loving marriage, you will think so too.

I had walked in Margie’s garden years ago, so I asked her if we could have our readers walk it through our pages. She graciously said yes, so the day I arrived I wanted our readers to feel like they were strolling her garden along with us. But to my surprise, what I got that day was a sweet story of her love for her husband of 57 years.

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Margie and Jim started dating while both worked at his family business, Guffey’s Food Market. It didn’t take long for them to fall in love and marry. They worked side-by-side in the business while raising their children and giving back to the Athens community.

Wednesday was their day off, and Jim would go play golf while Margie would “play” in her garden. Jim supported her but Margie is the one who hauled in rock to line the paths and surround the raised beds she created. She is the one who designed the paths so that no trees would need to be cut. She is the one who planted and later transplanted the off spring. She is the one who winters over 40 caladium bulbs for each year’s summer enjoyment.

But they both are the ones that would set in the morning enjoying her handiwork as they drank their coffee and visited before their day began.

After their retirement in 1998, Jim was the one that would suggest they go to a nursery for her to buy more plants for the garden. Margie’s beloved husband went to be with our Lord in 2010, but because Jim encouraged her passion, she is able to enjoy the sweet memories of their marriage as she tends to her garden.

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Article and Photos by: Chris Hari

McMinn Regional Humane Society makes major strides in urning around fate of animals down on their luck….

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ost folks just don’t realize the over-abundance of homeless and throwaway pets in our community, and until 2008, Barbara Brakebill was one of them. She visited the Animal Shelter for the first time at the request of a volunteer asking her if she would consider adopting an older Shih Tzu. She came home with the Shih Tzu and a volunteer application, angry and heartbroken at the sheer numbers of animals locked in cages like criminals.

She vowed that she would do everything in her power to find them loving homes – or at least make their stay while in the shelter as comfortable as possible.

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Brakebill is now President of MRHS and Rescue and Shelter Coordinator.

Working together with Julie Kerrigan, Volunteer Coordinator, Chris Womac and City of Athens Animal Control staff, MRHS board, MRHS Spay & Neuter Clinic Vet, Dr. Erin Dols and our 2 vet techs, dozens of shelter volunteers, fosters, donors, adopters, rescue groups and animal sponsors, amazing breakthroughs have been made.

More lives are being saved than ever before. Brakebill attributes Prevention, Intervention, and Advocacy for turning back the tide.

Photo top left is Barbara Brakebill. She is CFO at the Tennessee Technology Center, but mostly, she is responsible for saving hundreds of animals since 2008 when she first became aware of the lives of abandoned, abused animals at the shelter.

She is President of McMinn Regional Humane Society, and Rescue and Shelter Coordinator, and has turned the sad statistics around.

The puppy is 5 month old Ace. He is a Lab-German Shepherd mix that will be auctioned off at a fund-raising event for the Cleveland Boys and Girls Clubs. The event committee wanted a dog with a pedigree, but Tara Carter (wife of Athens Insurance owner Allen Carter – not necessarily for publication – they are big animal lovers with the ability to make things happen in our area) thought auctioning a shelter puppy would make a clear statement about adoption of animals/puppies from the shelter.

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Prevention because every animal adopted from the shelter goes to the MRHS Clinic to be spayed or neutered prior to going home with adopter.

Animals too young for the surgery go into foster care until old enough.

The Spay/Neuter Clinic, located on Davidson Road, is also available for ANYONE that has a dog or cat that needs to be fixed. Their primary mission is to prevent unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, and they don’t care about family income, what county you live in, if the animal was purchased, or if it was a stray.

MRHS Clinic spayed and neutered 2,040 dogs and cats in 2013. Imagine how many homeless animals that prevented.Just call 423-649-0370 to make an appointment.

Intervention through sheltering the homeless, whether it be in the Animal Shelter, foster homes, owner reclaim, or rescue placement. Brakebill works with many rescue groups to pull animals out of the shelter. One local organization, Pooches on the Move, a USDA certified animal transport company, leaves for New England every Friday with one or two vanloads of dogs. Cindy Rhoda owner of Pooches, posts our adoptable animals on at least ten adoption websites in the northeastern states for permanent home placement.

Advocacy through leadership, outreach, and education. Says Brakebill, it is our mission to make sure that pets become a part of the family – not disposable items when they outgrow the cute puppy stage, or the owner moves, gets a significant other, or doesn’t have time. Toward this end, Cindy Rhoda

owner of Pooches, posts our adoptable animals on at least ten adoption websites in the northeastern states for permanent home placement. MRHS instituted Ani-Meals to deliver pet food to elderly people with pets receiving food from Meals on Wheels to help them care for their four-legged friends.

MRHS provides Kind News Magazine to all third grade classes in McMinn County in an effort to educate children at a young age about the responsibility of pet ownership and how important it is to stop the overpopulation of homeless and unwanted pets.

The people in McMinn County now have a unique opportunity to help MRHS save more lives than ever before.

MRHS has been selected to compete in the 2014 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. The challenge is to get as many members of the community involved as possible to help increase lives saved by 330 during June, July, and August over the same time frame last year. The stakes are high, and monetary awards range from $5000 to $100,000 in grant money from the ASPCA, monies which could move MRHS one step closer to their dream of opening an adoption center at the Clinic location.

One grant Brakebill would love to win is the Community Engagement Award for $25,000. “We have a great community and all of us together can make a change for the better.”

Chris Womac, Animal Control Officer for the City of Athens.

Julie Kerrigan, retired professor, school principal, and currently Volunteer Coordinator at the shelter in Athens. She is a “mover and shaker.”

For further information please visit www. mrhumane.org, or on Facebook at McMinn Regional Humane Society.

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Happenings: June–September Zumba Gold Location: McMinn Senior Activity Center Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Certified instructor leads a fun class for seniors.

Cost: $2 per class For more information contact 423-745-8630 June 6 Fandom Friday Location: EG Fisher Library Time: 4pm Teens start the weekend off with group chats, creativity and more.

423-745-7782 or www.fisherlibrary.org June 7 Etowah Annual Custom Car Show and Street Rod Location: L&N Depot Grounds Time: 10am–5pm 423-572-0999 June 7 MooFest Location: Downtown Athens Cost: Free A day for family fun with vendors, contests, petting area of farm animals, entertainment and more centered around our heritage of milk.

Athens Chamber of Commerce 423-745-0334 www.nationalmoofest.com/ June 7 Sounds of Summer Location: Market Park Band: Melting Wall June 11, 18, 25 Page Turners’ Book Group Location: EG Fisher Public Library Time: 4pm Each week kids ages 7–11 will be able to make fun crafts, have book talks and more. Snacks will be provided.

423-745-7782 or www.fisherlibrary.org June 12 Summer Reading Program Kickoff Carnival Sponsored by EG Fisher Public Library Time: 10am–12pm 423-745-7782 or www.fisherlibrary.org

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June 14 Sound of Summer Location: Market Park Band: TBA June 18 Mr. Bond the Science Guy Location: The Gem Theater in Etowah Time: 1pm 423-745-7782 or www.fisherlibrary.org June 21 Downtown Cruise In Sponsored by Athens Travelers Location: Market Park Pavilion June 21 Sounds of Summer Location: Market Park Band: Sweet Georgia Sound June 16–20 and 23–27 Learn To Swim Location: Ingleside Pool Sponsored by City of Athens Parks and Recreation.

423-744-2704/ www.cityofathenstn.com June 28 Sounds of Summer Location: Market Park Band- Calling Glory June 28 Englewood Celebrates Location: Downtown Englewood Pancake Breakfast at 7am Music, vendors and food from 8:30am–1pm Square Dance on Main Street at 7pm Sunday Night Community Service on June 29, at 6pm at Englewood Church of God. June 14 Film Screening “Caney Creek” with Debbie Moore Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 1pm Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com

June 16, 23, 30 Around the World in Music with Audi Wilken Location: The Arts Center Time: 4pm–4:45pm Interactive, stimulating and fun activities inspired by the songs and rhythms from around the world. We will move, play percussion instruments, dance and swirl, drum and learn songs from around the world.

Registration deadline June l1.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ around-the-world-in-music/ or 423-745-8781 June 16 Trash to Treasure with Jessica Klaaren Location: The Arts Center Time: 5:30pm–8:30pm Use materials you bring form home to create beautiful jewelry and keepsakes.

Registration deadline June 12.

Cost $35 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ trash-to-treasure/ or 423-745-8781 June 16 and 18 Plaited Basket Weaving with Jennifer Dyer Location: The Arts Center Time: 1pm–4:30pm Beginning to advanced weavers will create at least one plaited basket using flat rattan.

Materials included.

Registration deadline June 11 Cost: $90 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ plaited-basket-weaving/ or 423-745-8781 June 16, 23, 30 Voice Works with Audi Wilken Location: The Arts Center Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm An opportunity to explore you voice, strengthen it and expand its range–and having fun doing it!

Registration deadline June 11.

Cost: $65 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ voice-works/ or 423-745-8781 June 17, 19, 24, 26 Clay Sculpture for Kids II with Andy Phipps Location: The Arts Center Time: 4pm–5pm Learn to make animals and figures, vases and pots by hand building with clay.

Materials included.

Registration deadline June 12.

Cost: $60 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/ uncategorized/clay-sculpture-for-kids/ or 423-745-8781

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June 17, 19, 24, 26 Pottery Throwing with Andy Phipps Location: The Arts Center Time: 5:30pm– 7:30pm Learn to wedge, center and throw small vessels on the pottery wheel. All levels welcome. Material included.

Registration deadline June 12.

Cost: $100 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ pottery-throwing/ or 423-745-8781 June 18, 25, July 2 Music and Imagination with Audi Wilken Location: The Arts Center Time: 1pm–2pm Let’s move and groove, make up stories and songs, catch a new rhythm, learn a new melody and add a harmony, play on different instruments and do some art. We’ll imagine and create music and art from the heart, tell our stories and mix it all together. A great place to learn coordination and collaboration, music skills and much more in a safe environment.

Registration deadline June 13.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ music-and-imagination/ or 423-745-8781 June 18, 25, July 2 Creative Expressions Location: The Arts Center Time: 2:30pm–3:30pm This is an opportunity to explore and grow your creativity, your voice and your expression.

Expand your skills through writing/songwriting, voice coaching and singing, percussion, movement and art.

Registration deadline June 13.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/events/creativeexpressions/ or 423-745-8781 June 21 McMinn County Amateur Radio Club Day at the Museum Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am–2pm Cost: Free Admission Contact info: www. livingheritagemuseum.com

June 28 Quilts of Valor Quilt Show Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 10am–4pm The Heritage Quilt Guild and the Starr Mountain Quilts of Valor organizations will be presenting a one day only quilt show at the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum from 10am–4pm. The McMinn County Veteran’s Affairs Office will be at hand to distribute many of the quilts to local veterans in honor of their service to our country.

Cost: Free Admission Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com July 4 Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration Location: L&N Depot All Day For More Information Call 263-2228 July 7-18 Youth Theatre Workshop Location: McMinn County High School Time: 9am–3pm Daily classes in acting, stage combat, music, improvisation, movement, costuming and more, for 7th–11th graders. Workshop ends in a performance of “The Hat” by Rod Crase.

Directed by Pam Thigpen and Rod Crase with instructors Bob and Kelly Borwick and Liz Schreck.

Registration deadline July 2.

Cost: $135 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/events/youththeatre-workshop/ or 423-745-8781 July 8, 10, 15, 17 Advanced Art for Kids I with Jordan Hart Location: The Arts Center Time: 4pm–5pm Take your art to the next level. Experienced young artists will explore painting and drawing techniques beyond the basics.

Registration deadline July 2.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ advancedartforkids/ or 423-745-8781 July 11 and 12 McMinn Senior Activity Center’s Yard Sale Location: 205 McMinn Ave. in Athens Time: 8am–4pm Come and find some treasures while supporting the McMinn Senior Activity Center.

For more information call 423-745-6830

July 12 Heritage School presents “Songwriting with Shane Lowe” Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am–2pm Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com July 14, 21, 28 Costuming and Cosplay with Amanda Haun Location: The Arts Center Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm Find a character and make your own costume.

Sewing machines provided.

Registration deadline June 8.

Cost: $65 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ costuming-and-cosplay/ or 423-745-8781 July 17 and 24 Watercolor Painting Lab I with Sandy Brown Location: The Arts Center Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm Explore your own creative style with provided watercolor studies or bring your own. Suitable for intermediate level watercolor students.

Registration deadline July 11.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ watercolor-painting-lab or 423-745-8781 July 19 Heritage School presents “Shape Note Singing with Dr. Nathan Reese” Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am–2pm Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com July 22, 24, 29, 31 Advanced Art for Kids II with Jordan Hart Location: The Arts Center Time: 4pm–5pm Take your art to the next level. Experienced young artists will explore painting and drawing techniques. Students are encouraged to bring ideas and found objects from home to use as a canvas in art projects.

Registration deadline July 16.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ advancedartforkids/ or 423-745-8781

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July 26 Heritage School presents “Jim Brooks in Concert” Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: To be announced Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com August 1–2 Vanities Location: The Clayton Center, Maryville, TN Time: 7pm Back by popular demand! Follow three small town young women as their friendship grows and finally falls apart. www.claytonartscenter.com/ or 423-745-8781 August 2 Matt Cordell Location: Etowah Gem Theater 7:30pm.

For More Information call 423-618-0375 August 2 Museum Town Hall: Preservation Needs of First United Presbyterian Church Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am The First United Presbyterian Church was selected one of the Ten Most Endangered Buildings in Tennessee. Join us as we discuss ways in which the local community can meet the challenge of funding the much needed restoration of this significant Athens structure.

Cost: Free Admission Contact info: Amy Blackburn, Executive Director, McMinn County Living Heritage Museum August 8 House Blend Concert Series: Open Mic Night Location: The Arts Center Time: 7:30pm Calling all musicians and fans! Join us as a performer or audience member for House Blend’s first concert of the season No Charge www.athensartscouncil.org or 423-745-8781 August 9 Children’s Saturday at Heritage School.

Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am–2pm It’s Children’s Saturday at Heritage School. Come hear cowboy stories with Cowboy Owl Hoot!

Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com

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August 16 Heritage School presents “Early Gun History of SE Tennessee” with Cowboy Reenactor Richard Hardin Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am–2pm Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com August 16 So It Goes II: Another Evening with Greg Moses Location: The Arts Center Time: 7:30pm Cost: $8–12 www.athensartscouncil.org or 423-745-8781 August 21 and 28 Watercolor Painting Lab II with Sandy Brown Location: The Arts Center Time: 5:30pm–7:30pm Explore your own creative style with provided watercolor studies or bring your own. Suitable for intermediate level watercolor students.

Registration deadline August 15.

Cost: $45 www.athensartscouncil.org/a/uncategorized/ watercolor-painting-lab or 423-745-8781 August 23 Heritage School presents “Guns of the Western Frontier” with Cowboy Reenactor Richard Hardin Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: 11am–2pm Cost: Free with Museum Membership Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com August 29 Swing Dancing Location: The Arts Center Time: 7pm–10pm For beginners and experienced dancers alike.

Learn the steps at 7pm, then join in the dance from 8pm–10pm. No partner necessary.

Cost: Minimum $5 donation www.athensartscouncil.org or 423-745-8781

September Grape Stomp & Family Fun Day Savannah Oaks Winery 10am–6pm For More Information Call 423-263-1513

September 6 Fried Green Tomato Festival Niota Depot 9am–4pm For More Information Call 423-568-2584 September 6–27 Quilts: Stories Told in Fabric Location: McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Time: Tuesday- Friday 10am–5pm and Saturday 10am–4pm Opening reception with featured speaker Karen Malone and special art exhibit Antithesis: Pieced Paintings and Painted Quilts featuring Mary Ramsey Keasler and Marie Spaeder Haas.

Cost: Free with Museum Membership.

Contact info: www.livingheritagemuseum.com September 25–October 4 Southeast TN Senior Olympics Please call the McMinn Senior Activity Center 423-745-6830 for details September 26–28 2014 National Muscadine Festival Location: Sweetwater This year’s festival is set to be full of excitement!

You can expect to find great food, family fun, live music and more. Several of the events will be at Tsali Notch, Tennessee’s largest muscadine vineyard., which is just a few miles from Historic Downtown Sweetwater. The National Muscadine Festival is hosted by the Sweetwater Merchants and Property owners Association (SMPOA).

Contact: Jessica Morgan 423-337-6979 www.nationalmuscadinefestival.com

Save the Date

A Celebration of HOPE September 19–20, 2014 Hiwassee College 25 Balloons!

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Best Care Close to Home Sweetwater Hospital Association’s continued growth has been seen outwardly for the past few years by watching the hill side community hospital transpose itself into a modern regional facility. In the last five years, Sweetwater Hospital Association has constructed a new sixteen bed state-of-the-art emergency room, new operating rooms and materials management area. This year, the hospital completed a new main entrance, laboratory, imaging center and administrative addition. Several million dollars have been invested in providing a modern, comfortable and safe environment for the patients in this region. Nevertheless, the investments don’t stop there; healthcare technology continues to be added to provide advanced services at a local level.

• New state of the Art Lab

• New Administrative Offices

• Enhanced Radiology Area

• New Registration Area

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