Mcminn Summer 2016

SUMMER 2016

HAPPY 100th

America’s National Parks!

Our Smoky Mountains Ranked #1

Limited Edition Pendleton® A Must-See At Chilhowee RV

Red, White and Beautiful

Photographer Ben Finch Inspires

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 &

HOT AIR 20 BALLOONS

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

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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

Community Health Services

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YEARS OF BRANDING EXPERIENCE

20

YEARS OF IN-HOUSE TELEVISION PRODUCTION

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CUSTOM MAGAZINES A YEAR

250

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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Written By Reneé Gibson

The furniture industry is abuzz, talking about how TV’s popular series featuring Chip and Joanna Gaines, are launching a lifestyle collection --- a collection that makes it easy for homeowners to duplicate and be inspired by their fabulously chic style.

Knoxville Wholesale Furniture, the leading furniture retailer in this region, has exclusivity to feature their trademark furniture. It’s available now for purchase in KWF’s beautiful, expansive showrooms located in West and North Knoxville. This is reportedly the largest display of the Magnolia Home gallery in the mid-South.

“We’re super excited to share the couple’s enthusiasm for a lifestyle promoting home and family,” states Tim Harris, President of Knoxville Wholesale Furniture. “This is a highly anticipated compilation and we are extraordinarily pleased to bring this to this area as the exclusive retailer.”

The gorgeous, eclectic furniture features furnishings for every room as well as decorative accessories with unexpected flair; hand-finishing with paint brushes; and or pops of fresh colors. Furniture shoppers can choose from various themes such as Primitive, Industrial, Boho, French Inspired, Farm and Traditional genres.

WEST KNOXVILLE:

410 North Peters Rd.

NORTH KNOXVILLE:

2381 Old Callahan Drive www.knoxvillewholesalefurniture.com SUMMER 2016 McMINN LIFE

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The Limited Edition Pendleton®

Photo By JoPhoto

At Chilhowee RV

Contents features

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The National Park Service Celebrates Their Centennial Anniversary

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16 Daily Post Athenian Remembering J. Neal Ensminger

Red, White and Beautiful

Photographer Ben Finch Inspires

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8 Ann Davis

A Truly Remarkable Woman

McMinn County’s 4-H

& Its Equestrian Drill Team…

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38 Calling Glory From McMinn County

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INTRODUCING

Magnolia Home Furnishings & Collections

by Joanna Gaines at Knoxville Wholesale Furniture

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Sunflowers With Gayle Fisher

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departments 6 From The Editor 24 Day Trip

48 We Love It!

Facebook: Smoky Mountain National Park

44 The Legacy of St. Mark Standing The Test Of Time

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Athens City Schools

Have A Picnic On The Hill

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Photo by Maxine Gernert, Field Representative for Congressman Chuck Fleischmann. Chris Hari with Ann Davis at the Chattanooga Convention Center when Ann rec’d. the TN Woman of Distinction Award.

Letter from the Editor It’s the lazy hazy days of summer and the kids are out of school. “What’s there to do?” is something heard by moms everywhere. There is an avenue to escape the doldrums, learn life skills, and have fun as well, through McMinn County 4-H. This issue features the 4-H Equestrian Drill Team, a hard working group of kids honing their riding skills to perform at horse shows and events throughout the region this summer.

The Sounds of Summer offers great free concerts every Saturday night at Market Park thanks to the hard work of Tim Hughes and his committee, and the generosity of business and church sponsors. Coming soon are 4th of July celebrations in most McMinn towns, as well as many festivals throughout the season.

In the Spring Issue we began a series of interviews with people who give so much of themselves to make a difference in our communities. The Summer Issue features Ann Davis, Mayor of Athens, Interim Director of the Living Heritage Museum, and winner of many local and state accolades, including the prestigious Tennessee Woman of Distinct Award last April. This issue also features an article on J. Neal Ensminger, a Daily Post-Athenian columnist for many years, and for whom the Chamber-sponsored ‘Man of the Year Award’ is named. The article is by Neal’s grandson, Pastor Charles Ensminger.

Two extremely talented musical groups are showcased in this issue; Calling Glory written by Ron Clayton, and 3 Tenors, penned by Gayle Fisher. Gayle also gives us an article on sunflowers and their unique characteristics. Gayle is one of the few Master Gardeners in our area and McMinn Life is proud to have her contributions in every issue.

St. Mark A.M.E. Zion Church recently celebrated its 150th anniversary, which means it was founded right after the end of the Civil War. It has a fascinating history, and it is clear that it owes its longevity to the strength of its members. Another group that has been around a very long time is the Englewood Eggers. These ladies meet at the Englewood Museum once a month to create works of art out of eggs of all kinds.

Please keep the suggestions and ideas coming! My contact information is chari@binghamgroup.com, or call me at (423) 435-1650. Have a great summer.

McMinn Life PUBLISHER

The Bingham Group President Lisa Atkins Bingham Local Editor Chris Hari Graphic Designers Dustin Hayes Abby Swabe Contributing Writers Ron Clayton Caroline Duvall Pastor Charles Ensminger Gayle Fisher Chris Hari Halea Lingerfelt Contributing Photographers Maxine Gernert Ben Finch Bruce Hari Chris Hari Tammy Lee Cover Photo Ben Finch Copy Editor Halea Lingerfelt Web Dustin Hayes 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.mcminnlife.com

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Planning your event at Tsali Notch 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 We can also arrange for a tent for your event.

Please give us a call at 423-506-9895 for availability and to inquire about rental rates.

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

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Independence Day Inspiration Written By Caroline Duvall | Photography By Ben Finch Photography

B

en Finch of Finch Photo recently collaborated with Castleton Farms to create an amazing wedding photo shoot inspired by the 4th of July.

Castleton Farms, established in 2009, is the premier wedding venue in East Tennessee.

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The shoot continued with several pictures of the couple with an American Flag, facing each other in a vintage rowboat, and sharing a kiss on a beach bicycle. For the inspirational reception, Cakery Bakery featured a tiered cake decorated in strawberries and blueberries, paired with ice cold lemonade in mason jars.

The photo shoot took place at the Woodland Gardens. With a stone aisle surrounded by tall trees strung together with lights, it is the perfect place to say “I do”! Ben shot Rachel wearing a beautiful, sleeveless gown accented with an ornate, jeweled belt. Her style was created by Rachel Ridner and Kelly Schmid, and her hair was styled by Bangs and Blush.

Bliss, Coldstream Market and All Occasions Party Rentals collaborated to turn Woodland Gardens into a patriotic reception, including a cozy couch between antique wing-backed chairs. Carnations sat in vases of glass bottles and refreshments were served on a reclaimed wooden table. Creative invitations were provided by Liddabits Products.

The couple kissed under a natural wooden arbor decorated with white fabric and surrounded by lit candles. Sarah’s bouquet of red peonies was matched by the flowers hung over the arbor, arranged by The Katelier Florist.

Ben’s children, Brennan, Knox and Molly Finch, are featured with Rachel and Joey, and added some family fun to the inspirational shoot. Through the collaboration of Finch Photo, Castleton Farms, and many others, the photo shoot was a big success!

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For Shirley, every minute mattered.

When you’re experiencing chest pain, every minute

matters. Being an accredited Chest Pain Center means Starr Regional Medical Center has achieved a higher level of expertise to care for patients with heart attack symptoms— FAST. Working in healthcare, I was very impressed with the professional level of care I received at Starr Regional. Upon entering the ER, they immediately began working with me to treat my problem.

The staff remained calm and professional, which kept me from being afraid in a very tense situation.

They saved my life.

–Shirley Matoy, Niota, TN

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StarrRegional.com

Want to take take giant strides toward your education or professional goals, stay close to home, and not break the bank? Then sign up for summer classes at Cleveland State! With new programs starting in the fall, there’s never been a more exciting time to turn up the heat on your education.

Let us be your #1 choice this summer!

SUMMER 2016 McMINN LIFE

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Celebrating 100 Years Of Service On

AUGUST 25, 2016 The National Park Service turns 100!

The Centennial will celebrate the achievements of the past 100 years.This celebration is really about the future. The National Park Service and National Park Foundation are working closely with partners and stakeholders across the country to ensure that the Centennial is more than a birthday. They want people everywhere to embrace the opportunities to explore, learn, be inspired or simply have fun in their 407 national parks, as well as understand how the National Park Service’s community based recreation, conservation, and historic preservation programs positively impact their own communities.

Find out more at: www.FindYourPark.com

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Million Number of Visitors To The National Parks In 2015

2015 MOST VISITED NATIONAL PARKS

1. Great Smoky Mountains

2. Grand Canyon 3. Rocky Mountain 4. Yosemite 5. Yellowstone 6. Zion 7. Olympic 8. Grand Teton 9. Acadia 10. Glacier

SOURCE: NPS

Commemorative Coins These coins commemorate more than 400 beautiful, historic and exquisite sites, over 80 million acres consisting of approximately 18,000 miles of trails, more than 75,000 archaeological sites and at least 247 species of threatened or endangered plants and animals.

Commemorative Stamps

National Park Service’s 100th Anniversary to be Celebrated on Forever Stamps:16 Parks to be Previewed on stamps.

NATIONAL PARKS ADVENTURE IMAX

Just in time for our Centennial, the National Park Service is excited to be featured in the film National Parks Adventure. This amazing large-screen format presents parks in never-seenbefore, breathtaking ways! Now playing in Chattanooga. www.tnaqua.org

Photo by: Tammu Lee

Smokies Centennial Challenge

HIKE 100

To honor the first 100 years of the National Park Service and launch into the next century, the Park Superintendent has committed to hiking 100 miles of park trails during 2016 -- and he invites you to join in on this challenge!

Photo by: Tammy Lee

Whether you are new to hiking in the Smokies or have seen most or all the trails in the park before, the park encourages you to set a goal of reaching 100 miles during this special year of celebration, between January 1-December 6, 2016. You may

hike any 100 miles of maintained trails in the park. Your miles can include everything from front country nature trails to the extensive trail network in the backcountry.

You may hike the same trail repeatedly or different trails; you may hike them solo, with a group or even with a guide. The goal is to inspire you to explore and enjoy the many benefits the park has to offer.

Explore the park website for information about hiking safety, trail recommendations, weather, road and trail closures, and the park’s trail map. If you plan to include overnight trips in your hiking plan, be sure to obtain a reservation and permit for all overnight stays in the back-country.

When you are ready to take on this challenge, plan your hikes and get out on a trail! Download a mileage log, create your own log, or purchase a ‘Hike the Smokies’ log book to keep track of your miles. The

‘Hike the Smokies’ log book is available for $1.00 at bookstores in the park or on the Great Smoky Mountains Association website.

After you have hiked 100 miles this year, send an email to let us know! You will then receive information about the Hike 100 Celebration on Thursday, December 8, 2016 to receive your commemorative “Smokies Centennial Challenge - Hike 100” pin!

For more informaiton and to check out a variety of gifts that you can buy, visit the park’s website at www.smokiesinformation.org

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M arking the historic centennial of the

National Park Service, two iconic American brands - Airstream and Pendleton Woolen Mills - have joined together to create 100 limited edition travel trailers. Inspired by a mutual love for the great outdoors and American craftmanship, each trailer is a treasure and a tribute to the parks - and to the adventures we all share.

Founded by two remarkable men - Wally Byam (Airstream) and Thomas Kay (Pendleton), their legacies are built upon entrepreneurial vision fueled by an authentic love for exploration and innovation.

A TIME-HONORED TRADITION OF QUALITY.

Detailed design considerations bring the Pendleton to life while celebrating our treasured lands. A special awning package comes standard, and an exclusive accessory kit features selects from Pendleton’s iconic National Park Collection, including woolen blankets, a dining set, throw pillows, hand towels, and more.

Photography From Airstream

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The screened rear sport hatch opens wide to welcome in the outdoors, while dual Quietstream™ air conditioners keep the inside cool in the summer’s heat. With over 84 million acres of National Parks out there to explore, in the Pendleton, everything feels right.

Vivid colors and bold patterns inspired by our wildest lands are included throughout the limited edition travel trailer, which includes choices from Pendleton’s famous National Park Collection. Find woolen blankets and shams, wool-down blend bed pillows, toss pillows, bath and hand towels, a dining set, a pet bed, a cuddly teddy bear, and even a scented candle.

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Interior walls feature a wall map of Yellowstone, the world’s original national park, as a way of celebrating our glorious natural cathedrals, places which have hosted countless Airstream adventures. It’s a reminder to never stop wandering – to escape, explore, and discover.

EVERYTHING, INCLUDING THE KITCHEN SINK.

Every detail has been considered to make the Pendleton feel like a home away from home: it even features a lighted handle and doorbell. In the wide galley, you’ll find a 8” deep sink with a removable Corian® cover, a stainless steel oven, and cooktop with glass cover. Now America’s greatest lands are right at your doorstep (and it’s made of a durable, premium, lightweight aluminum).

Harbor plank vinyl resembles real hardwood flooring, and Rustic Hickory laminates make the Pendleton® perfect for those who love the great outdoors. Brown Peat Ultraleather™ is custom-embroidered with Pendleton’s American Treasures design, which evokes the forests, rivers, and mountains protected by the National Park Service, while geometric patterns honor the Native Americans who have cared for our lands for centuries.

Still not sold yet? To see more about the Pendleton you can visit Chilhowee RV Center on Alcoa Highway.

Chilhowee RV Center 4037 Airport Hwy Louisville, TN 37777 Phone: 865-970-4085 Toll Free: 800-423-9580 SUMMER 2016 McMINN LIFE

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Sail Into Summer At

The Lily Pad Boutique FINEST LADIES APPARREL

L

ocated in the beautiful Sweetwater Valley, about midway between Knoxville and Chattanooga, lies the historic and quaint little town of Sweetwater. A shopper’s delight, whether it’s antiques, art, apparel, shoes or home decor that appeals to you, you’ll find shopping a pleasure when you park and stroll around the lovely downtown area.

The Lily Pad Boutique, a ladies clothing store, is celebrating its 38th year in business, with customers enjoying the fabulous selection of ladies apparel and unsurpassed customer service the store has become famous for.

Ladies Apparel For All Ages & Sizes • Gift Certificates • Complimentary Gift Wrap • Wardrobing and Make-Up by Renee • Infant Gifts • Accessories Galore • Complimentary Alterations • arT by fisher jewelry • Home Decor and Jewelry • Purses Let your summer shopping begin in Sweetwater as you experience the unique, fashion forward approach that The Lily Pad brings to our area.

The Lily Pad...The Gathering Place--- Shop With Friends or Make New Ones Here!!!

The Lily Pad Boutique | 209 N Main St, Sweetwater, TN 37874 | 423.337.5537 | sweetwaterlilypad.com

J. Neal Ensminger

Written By Pastor Charles Ersminger

J

ames Neal Ensminger was a part of McMinn County for his entire life. Born to John and Lena Lowry Ensminger in 1908, J. Neal not only belonged to the county, but he made it his home. It was the source of his life and profession. He began what would be a 50-year career with the Daily Post-Athenian (DPA) in 1937 as an advertising salesman and would retire in 1987 as executive editor.

he was only writing sporadically, but his mind was as keen as ever. He was often asked why he didn’t make a book from all his writings. His answer was simple.

“If someone wants to, they can.” The implication was that ‘someone’ was not going to be him.

Though he officially retired from the DPA in 1987, he did not stop what he called ‘scribbling.’ He called it this because in his entire career with the newspaper, he never learned to type; he wrote everything out longhand. That ‘scribbling’ for the DPA became an article called “Window Views” which ran almost weekly from 1987 until 1999.

The idea to put this collection together came to mind shortly after his death in August of 2001.

That was put on hold with the subsequent illness and death of his wife, Maggie, in October of that same year. Then, in 2009, Grandpa would be inducted into the Tennessee Newspaper Hall of Fame.

It was there that I knew I had to get back to work on this project.

Towards the end of 1999, J. Neal’s health and eyesight were fading and writing was a bit more difficult to do. By 2000

As it would happen, that someone turned out to be me. J. Neal Ensminger was my Grandfather.

The book is a collection of excerpts from his articles, featuring what I felt were

some of the best pieces of his writings.

I have also included a few other stories and introductory pieces that flesh out some of the story of J. Neal Ensminger as well as a final section containing the last two ‘Window Views’ articles written which were unique in and of themselves.

So, for those of you reading who have never laid eyes on any of these articles before, I hope that there is great enjoyment. I also hope for those of you who read the articles in their original publications that there will be enjoyment in ‘hearing’ Neal again. And while Grandpa wasn’t particularly interested in putting a book like this together, I hope that he would have approved, and that it will go to serve as a fitting tribute to his work and life.

I would also like to thank Bill Akins (who also wrote the forward for the book), Fred Underdown, and Larry Harris for all of their work in getting the book finished. The book can be purchased at the McMinn Historical Society at the County Courthouse in Athens, TN.

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Mc mi n n li f e

taste the adrenaline: Anderson County Adventure is a delicacy reserved for those who detour from the beaten path. It is the taste of mud in your mouth, sweat in your eyes and dirt under your fingernails. It is pure, unadulterated fun, paired best with the sweet satisfaction of discovering yourself in places not found on a map.

Where to next? That’s entirely up to you.

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norris lake

Museum of appalachia

UNCHARTED More than 800 miles of unspoiled shoreline on Norris Lake. Three hundred years of American history from the Museum of Appalachia, to the WWII Secret City to the Civil Rights Era. Over 300 miles of off-road terrain at Windrock Park.

Endless opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking and exploring. Satisfy your hunger for adventure, history, culture and the great outdoors.

If you are in search of a typical weekend getaway, keep looking. If you are hunting for unparalleled experiences, discover something uncharted.

A

nderson County is the ideal destination if you want to explore the outdoors, discover America’s heritage and history or just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

250,000 acres

1,000 miles of trails 26

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Our mountains and valleys create the perfect landscape for the outdoor enthusiast whether you are an adrenalin junky or wildlife observer. You can boat, ski or fish along our 800 miles of shoreline on Norris Lake, or fish one of the world’s premier trout fisheries.

We also have over 250,000 acres of wilderness that are ideal for hiking, biking, off-roading, horseback riding, wildlife and wildflower viewing. Our more than 1,000 miles of trails meander along river banks and climb into majestic mountains while providing many picturesque resting spots. Whether you prefer a challenging climb or a casual stroll, the perfect trail is waiting for you to explore.

Anderson County also offers the unique opportunity to travel through 300 years of American History. You can be transported from 18th Century Appalachia to the atomic age to the Civil Rights Era and into the future.

The term “Appalachian” is not only the name of the mountain range in Eastern North America. It also refers to a unique American culture of crafts, music, cuisine, heritage and beliefs. This culture is on display throughout Anderson County at the Museum of Appalachia, Lenoir Museum Historical Complex and Appalachia Arts Craft Center.

From beautiful rural countrysides to picturesque mountain settings, from eclectic cosmopolitan cities to small “Mayberry” like living, Anderson County’s diversity is appealing to anyone who visits and wants to stay.

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Sunflowers Written By Gayle Fisher

Sunflowers are large flowers with a sunny disposition. They are familiar to gardeners and non-gardeners. We are forever finding a sunflower that has sprouted up under the birdfeeder.

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are sturdy and easy to grow, having flower heads consisting of ray florets, (petals) surrounding a dense, rounded center of disk florets, which produce the seeds. Annual Sunflowers have coarse leaves that are lanced or heart shaped, they prefer full sun.

A sunflower follows the sun during the day actually turning its head to follow the path of the sun across the sky.

The flowers make attractive additions to fresh flower bouquets and can also be dried.

At a flower show in Knoxville the arranger pulled all the petals off and used the center round disk in his arrangement. He said it was because he liked that shape best, but it also took the pressure off because the petals tend to wilt.

Sunflowers are warm weather annuals; sow seeds outdoors in a prepared seedbed when the danger of frost has passed.

Germinating temperature is between 65 and 70 degrees. Seeds will sprout in 7 to 10 days. We can still plant now since we have such a long growing season they mature in 80 days. Keep seeds wet until they germinate. Sunflowers are heat and drought tolerant. Choose a spot protected from the wind unless you plan to stake them. Plants can be over 10 feet tall. Allow

two to four feet between plants, if you want them to be large and vigorous. The more area you give them the larger the plant and seed head. I did discover a disclaimer that sunflower roots give off a chemical that inhabits growth of nearby plants. (I’m sure weeds are not affected.) Bees and butterflies are attracted to the plant while it is blooming. Then birds eat the seeds when they mature. Cut the plants to the ground in the fall after the flowers have faded, or wait until spring and leave the seed heads as winter forage for birds. In addition to the tall annual yellow and brown sunflower we know, there are lots of new dwarf sunflowers and perennial sunflowers that come in colors of burgundy, white, orange, red, gold, lemon yellow, and bronze.

I planted several rows in the field in front of my house and enjoyed seeing the bright yellow heads bob in the wind. Sunflowers attract a wide variety of birds to the garden; I especially enjoy the gold finches. I planted the black oil sunflower seeds from the co-op (used for feeding birds) and had great success.

This year I ordered some Velvet Queen sunflower seeds. Danny then planted some potted lantana in the same spot. Although he disturbed my seeds I still have several plants and I will need to move or thin them before they get much bigger. The bottoms of sunflower foliage tends to die and fall off before the plant produces a bloom so an under story planting of Cosmos or Zinnias would make them more attractive. Keep them in the back of your planting bed or plant them along a fencerow as a hedge or border. They are also ideal for meadow and semi-wild planting.

Even with Danny and me planting the same area, we cannot top my sister-in-law who, after moving into her new home decided to plant some sunflowers. After choosing a sunny spot and having the soil tilled she was ready to begin her gardening career. My brother found her on her knees carefully aliening each seed with the larger end turned toward the road. When he asked her why she was being so carefully she replied, “I want to make sure that the motorist driving by gets to see the flowers.”

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Springbrook has it all Meeting Spaces

Onsite Technology Golf Courses Bar and Grill Onsite Catering Special Events Spaces 123 Country Club Lane Niota, TN 37826 Tel. (423) 568-2215 . Fax (423) 568-2216 www.springbrookgcc.com SUMMER 2016 McMINN LIFE

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McMinn County’s 4-H & Its Equestrian Drill Team…

Written By Chris Hari Photography By Dolphin Riggs, Bruce & Chris Hari Abby sits on her sister’s horse. She is too young to be a member of the team this year, but plans to next year.

4-H (Head, Heart, Hands, Health) is the nation’s largest positive youth development and mentoring program reaching 6 million kids across America. It is administered by the National Institute of Food & Agriculture Division of the United States Department of Agriculture, and partners with most every county in the nation to carry out programs that emphasize personal growth and preparation for lifelong learning. 4-H is a non-profit organization and is funded by sponsors, fund raisers, local community clubs and business and individual donations.

In McMinn County, a 4-H agent teaches the 4-H curriculum to students in 4th through 8th grades in all of the county schools. Each classroom encompassed by this group receives monthly hands-on training during class time. There are also 4-H clubs that meet after school.

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In the early days of 4-H in McMinn County, it was the annual Dairy Show that put this area on the map. An active horse program was not introduced until 1995, and the Drill Team was formed in 1997.

Every Tuesday and Thursday evenings all summer long, a dedicated group of young people at the Layman Exhibition Center in the Regional Park practice precision lines and figure eights over and over again until it’s perfect. They are members of the 4-H Equestrian Drill Team working under the tutelage of coach Bette Schiestel. The team will perform at horse shows and events throughout the region over the summer.

Riding is just a fraction of what these students have learned through 4-H activities. It is not the job of parents to take care of the feeding, grooming, and training of the horses, but that of each 4-Her. Through this process, lifeskill

McKayla Leamon

responsibilities are learned that will last a lifetime. These kids are far more apt to be engaged in healthy lifestyles and in their communities, than most of their peers. Says Coach Bette, “many kids have nothing to do.

This keeps them out of trouble.”

Ag-Central employees, Lacey Shamblin and Jaime Lee Kaminske, helped run the annual 4-H Spring Horse Show.

Cayci Leamon, UT Extension Agent who works with 4-H, encourages kids to join the drill team for another reason. “It is amazing to watch kids who have little riding experience learn to ride and even excel on the drill team. It is something they can be proud of.”

McKayla Leamon has been in 4-H horse program since fourth grade. She has barrel raced, performed in the gaited division and is a member of the 4-H drill team. In her words…“I loved my 4-H involvement so much that I compete at local, regional, state, and even the southern regional levels and have done fairly well. Through the horse program I have learned how to communicate better with horses and have tremendously improved my riding. 4-H has given me the opportunity to train my horses as well as teach myself along the way. Along with the knowledge, I’ve gained friendships that will last a lifetime. I’ve met people from across the state, and even some from out of state that I will stay in touch with. Also, 4-H has allowed me to meet people from my own community and grow closer to them. Overall, I personally feel as if 4-H has kept me from getting into the negative things in life and has produced a more positive outlook due to my connections with my horses and my horse friends.”

To learn more about 4-H in McMinn County, contact the UT Extension Office at (423) 745-2852.

Break time antics and discussions.

Left Photo: Drill team coach, Bette Schiestel, assisted by Kara Hatfield. Top right photo: “Blue prints” of the drills being practiced. Bottom right photo: John Thompson from Sweetwater Saddle Club was announcer for the Spring Show.

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CALLING GLORY Written By Ron Clayton

A

n ambitious idea was born nine-years ago by a group of McMinn County musicians who believed they could make a difference in musical ministry. The four planned and prayed and created and practiced, and after a time, the band Calling Glory was born.

Today they are making their mark in Contemporary Christian music with a grammy ballot appearance, musical creations regularly played on Siruis Radio’ s The Message, Klove, Air 1, and other venues, along with downloads available on Amazon, Pandora, I-tunes, Google Play and many other sites. Currently they have more than 130,000 fans.

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Band members include lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Dana Potvin, lead guitarist Jones Beene, Drew Crabtree on bass, and drummer Rico Acosta.

Calling Glory’s busy schedule encompasses playing conferences, churches and festivals throughout the U.S. and as far away as Nicaragua. That presented a challenge with only a few weeks to receive passports, book transportation and prepare logistics.

“We didn’t know what to expect in Nicaragua,” said Dana. “We thought we might be playing for roosters. We arrived at an old baseball stadium in a small town and suddenly they were bussing in thousands.”

More than 10,000 attended the two day event, with hundreds being saved and receiving prayer. Calling Glory will likely be returning to that country soon for another event.

The bands set list depends upon the venue, according to Dana. He said they are capable of a full concert of originals, or a mix of current Contemporary Christian songs. Band members are also involved with their local church worship teams.

The group has released a number of projects, with several making top charts in the music industry. Currently they are working on their latest creations at Full Circle Music

in Nashville. Studio owner and producer Seth Mosely is directing the recordings. He has produced such groups as For King and Country, Newsboys, Francesca Battistelli, and Mercy Me. Mosely is a grammy and Dove Award winner. Calling Glory also had previous projects produced by Jason Hoard at his Georgia studio.

The creative side of Calling Glory often entails meeting at one of their homes, bouncing ideas off of each other, and slowly putting together their next release.

“We like to think of ourselves as not just a band but a worship band, said Drew. That means using their own ideas and creations to draw listeners to Christ.

Jones added, “We pray that through our music listeners will be challenged to consider the cross and the sacrifice made for them.”

Their single, “I Am With You” was the bands first song eligible for a Grammy, as best Contemporary Christian Song of the Year. It reached number 44 on the Billboard Christian Chart. Other songs have hit as high as 24 on the charts.

During off times, the band members work their regular jobs. Jones is a Vice-President at Athens based Plastic Industries, where Drew is a computer expert. Dana is a music director at Dalton First United Methodist Church, and Rico spends his off hours as a Nashville musician.

And while their current success has reached far beyond their original goals, future plans may include larger and longer tours. “That probably will be our next step by the grace of God,” said Dana.

Currently the band’s releases are under the “Soncured” corporate record label.

“Soncured is not a huge corporate record label,” said Jones, who is owner of the company. He said the label is entirely self-funded and currently has other artists, including Tanner Clark, Josh Gilbert, and new artist Asher. “At our core we believe that Holy Spirit inspired music has the ability to change lives and our mission is to find and promote unknown Christian artists who otherwise might never have the opportunity to share the message God has given them with the world.”

With thousands of fans, songs hitting the Billboard charts, and huge events on the horizon, band members make it clear that fame is not the goal of Calling Glory. Their goals are to tell the world about Christ through testimony and music. And those who follow their travels know that will be the key to their future success.

“A big issue in our lives and the whole point of the band is that we always make space for worship,” Dana said. “And to tell them how Christ has made a difference in our lives.”

BAND INFORMATION Dana Potvin Lead singer, guitar and keyboard Originally from Nebraska before moving to Tennessee. Has led worship in several churches for the past 15 years.

Jones Beene Lead Guitar A Tennessee native, attended Lee University Ministered with Chosen and The Ramp Drew Crabtree Bass Graduate of Tennessee Wesleyan College with a degree in music education Rico Acosta Drums Full time Nashville musician.

For information about booking Calling Glory, visit www.soncured.com, Facebook at :calling glory, Instagram @callinggloryband, Twitter @ Callingglory, Youtube – Calling Glory.

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MONROE LIFE MAGAZINE’S 4TH ANNUAL

Benefiting CASA Monroe

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2016

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An Interview with:

Ann Davis Written and Photographed By Chris Hari

A

nn Scott Davis is a remarkable woman. At a time in her life when she expected to be watercolor painting and gardening, Ann tirelessly works two jobs and is making a lasting difference for people in our community. I wondered what groundwork inspired Ann to be so motivated and to give so much of her time and talents?

Ann’s response to my inquiry was immediate. “It was the way I was raised.

Both of my parents set great examples of how to treat people, but my mother in particular spent a lifetime of helping those less fortunate.” Ann’s parents are the late Charles “Shy” Scott, a World War II veteran who piloted B17 bombers, and Lola Scott, a retired schoolteacher who was awarded the statewide E. Harper Johnson Retired Teacher of the Year award from the Education Association of Tennessee. Lola, now 99, taught high school equivalency classes until her vision began to fail when she was 89. Ann’s daughter continues the tradition of giving back to make the world a better place. “I am very grateful that my daughter Whitney, who lives in Nashville, has taken up the practice of giving back to her community through work with the homeless, and those affected with mental illness and substance abuse.”

Ann’s career didn’t exactly turn out as she had planned when she was a child.

“I was horse crazy and wanted to be a jockey. When it became apparent that I was way too tall, I decided that I wanted to marry a jockey! As I became older and realized I needed a sensible course for my life I decided to take some business and computer courses at Tennessee Wesleyan College.” While employed in the business world, Ann spent her spare time volunteering at the Athens Area Council for the Arts and at McMinn County Living Heritage Museum. In 1987, she became the first full-time executive director of the museum. During her tenure, the museum outgrew its first location in the Old College building on the TWC campus and moved to the old McMinn County High School facility on Madison Avenue. In 2007, after twenty years,

Ann retired to care for her terminally ill husband, Stan.

How then, did politics enter the picture?

“I always had an interest in politics. My father was on the City Council. My uncle was Mayor of Athens, and another uncle was a judge. One of the last things Stan told me was that I needed to run for the City Council.” As a recent widow, Ann traveled some, started back into watercolor painting, and continued teaching Sunday School (for almost 30 years at First Baptist Church), but something was missing. I really wasn’t giving much to my community. My favorite saying is, “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy because each time you volunteer you are voting for the kind of community in which you wish to live. I knew I had to do more.”

In 2008, Ann made a successful bid for a seat on the City Council. Following her

An old photo of Ann and her mother, Lola, holding her younger sister.

At right is Ann and Lola, age 99. Above right is Ann receives the Tennessee Woman of Distinction Award, presented to her by Marcia Cling. Top left standing is Bill Chestnutt, Margaret Mahery, Bo Perkinson, Meredith Wilson, Ann, Whitney Malone, Rudy Johnson. Seated is Linda Chestnutt, Minty Wilson, and Yvonne Raper. All had traveled to Chattanooga to watch Ann receive the Tennessee Woman of Distinction Award. Lower right is Ann with her daughter, Whitney Malone.

second term in the City Council, Ann’s hard work and dedication was recognized by being named Mayor of Athens, a position she currently holds.

Ann’s ability to coordinate an initiative and succeed in its implementation is due in great part to her strategy. “I approach things project by project. I need a goal in front of me all the time.”

One major accomplishment has been the effort to help develop a skilled workforce to meet the needs of area industries. She worked with Stewart Smith at Tennessee Technology Center and other volunteers to develop seven initiatives to structure the process. Their ongoing efforts since 2009 have been so successful that they both were invited to speak to State and National workforce boards in Nashville and Washington, DC to share the program that has worked so well for Athens and McMinn County. Her most current project has been the implementation of Main Street Athens, a program of the National Trust for the revitalization of downtown

Athens. “Working with Patti Greek and Missy Ford of the Downtown Business Association was a great collaboration and it has been very gratifying to see the excitement around the project. I have been blessed to work with so many wonderful volunteers on every project, regardless of size, and I attribute the success to them.”

In 2011, Ann was nominated for the Women in Municipal Government Leadership Award, which included nominees from all 50 states. It was the first time a person from Tennessee won this award. Currently Ann is second vice president for the Tennessee Municipal League, and is in line for the presidency.

“This position” says Ann, “has been a wonderful help in understanding issues facing our city and where we can find help for funding initiatives.”

Ann’s retirement from the museum didn’t last long. In 2012, she went back to the museum part-time to help with coordination of the Heritage School,

and target new programs for building membership and museum attendance. In 2014, she took on the executive director’s role once again, and the museum became more involved in the community than ever before. Ann has been very involved in the Tennessee Association of Museums, serving two years as president. Says Ann, “I had no clue how well that would prepare me for working in City government. I became acquainted with grants, budget management, lobbying, and dealing with the public. The Good Lord put me there for a reason.”

In April, Ann was honored as the American Lung Association’s 2016 Tennessee Woman of Distinction. This award is presented annually at a banquet held at the Chattanooga Convention Center to recognize women who have made extraordinary contributions to their communities, and who inspire and encourage others to reach their full potential. Ann has certainly made our community a better place to live both now and for future generations.

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Excellence is

Athens City Schools

A

thens City Schools is excited about the upcoming school year which will begin on August 3rd for students.

Our teachers, staff, administrators, and school board members are working hard to provide a safe, secure, and enriching learning environment for all students this upcoming school year.

Did You Know?

Our schools provide free education to all Athens City students and a very reasonably priced tuition for children who reside outside the city limits of Athens. We serve children from Pre K- 8th grade with quality teachers and educators leading the students daily in enriching activities and learning.

Athens City students are also provided specialty area classes in addition to the classroom instruction which includes art, enrichment, physical education, library, guidance, academic intervention services, and STEM activities.

Our district has six school campuses which include City Park (Pre K-2nd Grade, Ingleside (Pre K- 2nd Grade), North City (3rd-5th Grade), Westside (3rd-5th Grade), Athens City Middle (6th-8th Grade), and Camp Oo-Tah-Nee-Noh-Chee (school camp

outdoor classroom for over 50 years).

ACS offers a great variety of sports for the middle school students in grades 6-8 including tennis, volleyball, baseball, softball, girls’ soccer, boys’ soccer, track, cross country, golf, girls’ basketball, boys’ basketball, swimming, and cheerleading. Also, our middle school has an exceptional fine arts department which offers theatre, band, and chorus. The intermediate schools, North City, and Westside have intramural sports that students can participate in of their choice. The middle school and intermediate schools also have a variety of opportunities for students to participate in clubs of their choice.

breaks and daily school days. It operates from 6 a.m.- 6 p.m. Children have the opportunity to engage in activities that will benefit them emotionally, physically, and educationally including crafts, sports and games, snacks, art and music, field trips, and many other creative opportunities. During the school year, a special time each day is allotted for homework help.

Our district operates a state recognized Kids Connection Before and After School Care program which is available for all students Pre K- 8th grade at each school campus. Kids Connection provides a safe, educationally enriching, fun and rewarding experience for all students during school

Our district extends an open invitation to anyone that would like to visit our schools by contacting the school of choice and setting up an appointment. Please visit our website athenscityschools.net, Facebook, and Twitter accounts for continuous updates about Athens City Schools.

Athens City Middle School will be celebrating 50 Years of excellence in education this school year. A special celebration and recognition is planned for Fall 2016, and more details will be shared with the public on our website, local newspaper, and social media outlets closer to the time of the event.

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Written and Photographed By Chris Hari

I

t is safe to say that few groups in Southeast Tennessee have met on a regular basis longer than the Englewood Eggers. The group started in the early 1960s and it wasn’t long before their membership grew to 60 members and met in the former Ramada Inn near Sweetwater.

Now, over 50 years later, five hard core Eggers still meet monthly at the Englewood Museum for fun, friendship, sharing, and to participate in the craft of decorating eggs. Egg art has been around for centuries. Just about any kind of egg can be used, but the most commonly used are goose, duck, and chicken eggs.

The eggs are prepared for decoration by drilling a hole in the top and bottom of the egg and blowing out the contents.

The Englewood Eggers use a dremal tool similar to a dentist’s drill for this process.

The eggs are then decorated with a

variety of adornments, such as dye, paint, and appliques. Patterns and supplies for egg artistry are available online and in hobby stores.

Egg artistry was very prevalent in the 1970s and 80s, with national conventions and promotion by associations such as the International Art Guild. During this time, an invitational show was held East of the Mississippi River every year in a different city. The Englewood Eggers met a lot of people then, but enjoyed most the show held in Gatlinburg in the 70s.

Currently, they continue their monthly gatherings only locally. Says one Egger, “not only is it fun, it is a great stress reliever and has kept me sane!”

For further information on the Englewood Eggers, contact the Englewood Museum at (423) 887-5455.

Doris Martin transformed an egg into a teapot.

Above right is a display of the variety of eggs suitable for egg artistry. Above right The Eggers have created dozens of art works, some of which took over a month to complete.

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2016

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SUMMER 2016 McMINN LIFE

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The Legacy of St. Mark Written and Photographed By Chris Hari

S

t. Mark African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church has provided a spiritual home for its family of members and withstood the trials of time for over 150 years. The roots of St. Mark preceded its building. It was organized in 1865 and became part of the Athens District of the North Carolina Conference.

The present property was purchased in 1867, two years after the Civil War, in an area known as Free Hill. The first building on the property was a school for Blacks which doubled as a place for the people of St. Mark to worship. It was the only place for Black people to worship and go to school in McMinn County. The Pastor at this time was John McDonald who was also a carpenter. He built the first church to house St. Mark in 1882. It is currently one of the oldest churches in the Tennessee Annual Conference.

The school was eventually closed due to lack of funds to operate and the building became a recreational center for Blacks. The YMCA now stands where the school used to be.

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2016

The location of the church has always been where it is today, but the surroundings have changed tremendously. In the early years, there were houses and businesses where the front lawn now gracefully slopes to Jackson Street. The view from St. Mark was the clutter of roof tops. Later, negotiations changed that view when St. Mark basically traded the property behind it (where the Y is now located) for the property in front.

A large bell is displayed at the base of the front lawn. Until the early 1960s, that bell was located in the bell tower of the church.

One of its many uses was for funerals. A fellow named Willie would station himself in front of the church and when funeral processions approached, Willie would pull the bell cord. This was a signal for people to rise to await the arrival.

The St. Mark family was faced with the possibility of major changes in the early 1960s as urban renewal swept through Free Hill. Other Black churches had to relocate to make room for housing

developments and other changes. St. Mark’s people stood their ground, and through their prayers and efforts, the church was allowed to remain at what is now the corner of Knoxville Avenue and Jackson Street.

The people of St. Mark are extremely hardworking, loyal, and dedicated to each other and to serving the Lord. The current Pastor, Reverend Roxianne Sherles, says of the congregation, “they will do whatever is necessary to make things happen, it is all for one and one for all.”

Events that clearly demonstrate these attributions are told by church historian, Burkett Witt. Until 1975, the church was a wooden structure that needed to be painted every few years. This was done by church members after work and usually took about

Left is The oldest known picture of St. Mark. Above St. Mark has a membership of 40 people. Half of the congregation showed up to prepare for the 150th anniversary of the Tennessee Church Conference.

Reverend Roxianne Sherles is second from left in the top row. Above right is the church after one of the early renovations. At right is the old church bell and the current building.

three months. Members were requested to donate bricks by going to the supplier and paying for however many bricks they could. “The church’s age,” says Burkett, “is hidden behind the bricks.”

The spacious fellowship hall with its large kitchen, two bathrooms, and two offices was built using money raised from Friday night fish fries, pie sales, and many other fund raising opportunities. It replaced an “annex” that had no air conditioning or heat. Says Burkett, “in the winter we put antifreeze in the commodes to keep them from freezing.”

The beautiful wooden pews in the church were acquired in the same way. Burkett, who was a trustee, had been authorized by the board to go to the bank to get a loan for the money needed for new pews.

He spoke to the congregation following worship service one Sunday to update them on this issue. As Burkett relates, “Associate Minister Jerry Lewis was in attendance, and after hearing what I had

to say, stood up and said ‘why can’t we just buy the pews.’ Before the congregation left that Sunday, all the money needed to purchase the pews was pledged.”

St. Mark is integrally involved in the Tennessee Church Conference and recently had the honor of hosting the annual conference on its 150th anniversary. St. Mark partnered with Tennessee Wesleyan University and Trinity United Methodist Church to host the five day event in order to accommodate the number of people attending from throughout the region. Class sessions were held at Trinity, meals were taken in TWU’s cafeteria, and the final worship service was held in Townsend Hall.

Frances Williams and Anita Scruggs from St. Mark coordinated the enormous effort it takes to make a conference involving so many people a success. As with all St. Mark functions, nearly every member of the congregation came at the designated work times with their sleeves rolled up and ready to help.

SUMMER 2016 McMINN LIFE

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