McMinn Life Summer 2018

SUMMER 2018

HARRY T. BURN

And His Mother Honored By The Suffrage Coalition

CAMPING IN EAST TENNESSEE

BILL LEE

A Heart For Serving

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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McMINN COUNTY IS AN IDEAL PLACE TO DO BUSINESS McMinn County is located along a major transportation corridor (Interstate 75) in both the Chattanooga and Knoxville regions in Southeast Tennessee. We offer a great location, a workforce eager to tackle the demands of advanced manufacturing, low cost taxes in a debt-free county, abundant industrial properties, a favorable quality of life, and support services that are hard to match. The McMinn County Economic Development Authority works to attract new investment and jobs in McMinn County and provides life-long support to our existing industries. Please browse our business advantages and community assets to see for yourself why so many industries choose to “Make It In McMinn.�

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ATHENS | CALHOUN | ENGLEWOOD | ETOWAH | NIOTA 423.745.1506 makeitinmcminn.org

McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

LABOR DAY WEEKEND The 6th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Fiesta will return to East Tennessee at The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore, Tennessee. Enjoy balloon rides, live music, food, games, an inflatable Kid’s Zone and much more all while supporting CASA Monroe.

The two-day Balloon Fiesta begins on Saturday, September 1st from 2pm – 10pm, and runs through Sunday, September 2nd, from 2pm – 10pm.

The finale each night will be a Balloon Glow set to music with over 20 colorful hot air balloons beginning at dusk. “We are delighted to be bringing back a fall family favorite to East Tennessee,” says Lisa Bingham, publisher of Monroe Life Magazine and owner of The Bingham Group, a long-time supporter of CASA Monroe and the company responsible for the event. “We have 20+ of the most talented balloon pilots in the country excited to entertain the community. We invite everyone to come out and join in the celebration!”

VIA TICKETS Enjoy Gourmet Southern Fare featuring some of the best flavors and ON SALE cuisine of East Tennessee. Enjoy “hint” of Orange Tea and Balloon Fiesta $125 A PERSON inspired Mocktails. The all you can enjoy menu includes hot & cold

hor d’oeuvres, numerous entrees, vegan options, snacks and amazing desserts.

Intimate Atmosphere • Gourmet Southern Fare • Meet and Greet with Pilots • Reserved Parking www.monroelifeballoonfiesta.com 865-523-5999

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Volume 2, 2015

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

Seasonal Culinary Inspirations Truffle Ricotta Cheese Recipe With Chef Deron Little

KIPPY BROWN Behind The Scenes With

Seattle Seahawks Coach Kippy Brown And His Amazing Life Story

THE MUSCADINE FESTIVAL &

AIR BALLOONS 20 HOT

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

DR. HAROLD BLACK

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

Farragut_Summer_2015.indd 1

8/25/15 10:27 AM

MONROE LIFE MAGAZINE’S 5TH ANNUAL

Benefiting CASA Monroe

T E N N E S S E E

HUNTING & TRAPPING GUIDE

EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2015 - JULY 31, 2016

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

www.tnwildlife.org Follow us on:

Includes 2016 Spring Turkey Season

MARKETING • MEDIA • WEB DESIGN • TELEVISION

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

Community Health Services

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YEARS OF BRANDING EXPERIENCE

20

YEARS OF IN-HOUSE TELEVISION PRODUCTION

15

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

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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4th Of July Fun

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GOVERNOR

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Contents features Andy Page:

Taking Oak Ridge Associated University Further Together

40 Healthy Hasselback Potatoes

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Sequoyah

BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM We have A World Class Museum Right Here At Home

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

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Harry Burns’ History Changing Vote

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departments 6 From The Publisher 11 McMinn County Living Heritage Museum 26 City Manager Seth Sumner 28 Master Gardner, Gayle Fisher Why Are My Plants Not Blooming?

35 East Tennessee Foundation 2018 Salute For A Cure 38 Day Trip Hot Springs, A Hot Destination 47 Happenings

Bohemian Wedding INDOOR S'MORES AND SOME MORE OPTIONS

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SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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McMinn Life PUBLISHER

The Bingham Group President Lisa Atkins Bingham

Chelsea Harris-Bowlin, Sequoyah HS & UT Alumni-Current UT Cheerleading Coach with her Soaring Height Cheerleading Team, "The Rubies" at the 2018 Summit National Championship in Orlando.

This being a 1st year of cheering for some of the girls made the celebration of scoring "0" deductions at competition spectacular! Pictured left to right: Tina Harris, Aspen Burton, Kelsey & Kathryn Bingham, Coach Chelsea Harris-Bowlin, Gretchen & Ellie Titlow and Jenna Moore

From Th e Pu blish er

Summer is here, and I couldn’t be more excited! My girls are out of school and the air is warm.

It’s busy but at an enjoyable pace with work, time at the pool, cheerleading, vacation bible school and traveling. So many beautiful places in McMinn County to share summertime fun with family and friends.

This summer is also a time of change for us at McMinn Life Magazine as Local Editor Chris Hari begins retirement. We wish her the best of everything! Thank you Chris!

In this issue, we share the Burn Statue unveiling in Knoxville, it was an honor to witness these great McMinn historical figures being memorialized. We highly recommend visiting the McMinn County Heritage Museum, then take a trip to Knoxville to see the statue in person.

The Bohemian themed wedding of Will Thompson and McKenzie Irons is featured capturing their incredible love story and beautiful day of union. The creative touches from the bride’s family warms the heart.

Having issues with your gardening this summer, Gayle Fisher shares tips in her article. Athens City Manager, C. Seth Sumner talks about renewed community pride and the McMinn County Health Department invites all pregnant and under 1 year old Moms to Baby Fair 2018.

If you’re looking for a fun getaway, we feature camping in this issue. Whether you’re an avid camper or beginner, you will find the best camping destinations in East Tennessee. Don’t miss the S’mores recipes, the all-time best camping dessert. And for another HOT destination close to home, a trip to Hot Springs, North Carolina is the perfect fit. It’s a chance to experience the Appalachian Trail, great restaurants and wonderful lodging. Planning a 4th of July trip, party or cookout, this issue is loaded with great recipes for America’s Celebration of Independence.

We also feature a candidate for Tennessee Governor by introducing you to Bill Lee, a man of great faith and vision. It is an honor to share the stories of those with a true heart of service to others. It was a special time for me recently catching up with Andy Page of ORAU. Check out this feature to learn more about his story and quest to take ORAU to the next level.

We welcome your McMinn County story ideas, send to info@binghamgroup.com.

Thanks for all of our advertisers, readers and sponsors, we really appreciate you.

Lisa Atkins-Bingham Publisher of Farragut, Monroe & McMinn Life President and Creative Director of The Bingham Group

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

Art Director Abby Swabe Graphic Designers Becky Brooks Lisa Bingham Abby Swabe Contributing Writers Lisa Bingham Gayle Fisher Sydnee Brashears Ryan Moyers C. Seth Sumner McKenzie Irons Contributing Photographers Brittany Toomey Copy Editor Jennifer Porterfield Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@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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WE LOVE IT!

Members of the Burn family at the unveiling.

Be A Good Boy, Harry Burn It was August 18, 1920 when tempers flared and the pressure on the State of Tennessee became unbearable, the venue was a special legislative session to ratify the 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote. Congress needed 36 of the 40 states to ratify in order to amend the US Constitution. It all came down to one vote, one state, one mother’s letter and one 24-year-old named Harry Burn.

Harry Burn was a Republican member of the General Assembly, his mother, Pheobe (Febb) Burn was a woman of intelligence, reading three newspapers daily. However, no matter how intelligent, she could not vote. Men in her employ on the farm could vote despite their inability to read or write.

So stood Harry Burn in 1920 with the deciding vote to break the 48-48 tie in favor of ratifying the amendment.

With the words of his mother’s letter on his heart, he voted to break the deadlock & Tennessee became the decisive state passing the 19th Amendment.

A monument honoring Harry T. Burn and his mother for their roles in the right to vote was erected by the Suffrage

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

Coalition in Knoxville near Clinch Avenue & Market Square. It features Febb Burn standing with son,Harry Burn seated, her hand gripping his shoulder, a statement in sculpture expressing the encouragement for him to vote in favor of ratification, to forbid the US Constitution from restricting voting privileges on the basis of gender.

The McMinn County Heritage Museum has a copy of that letter as well as the desk it was written upon and now the City of Knoxville has a monument to the mother & son that changed history.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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FREE MUSIC EVENTS

Jazz Up Your Summer in McMinn County

By Ryan Moyers

Festivals and summer go hand in hand, and there’s nothing more festive than music. In Athens, Tennessee, you might be able to find just that. All summer long, going from May to August, The Sounds of Summer is an event held every Saturday in the Farmer’s Market, where a new band or group comes in to play music. In the event’s sixth running year, it is free to the public and simply wants to make the day better by providing some easily

accessed, easy to listen to songs. The event is held at 7pm, the perfect time to relax to some good music.

For the month of July to August, only three bands will be playing, but they are all returning from having played during previous years. The first, playing on July 7th, is Rick Rushing and the Blues Strangers, a Blues oriented band based out of Chattanooga,

Tennessee. On July 14th the next band to play will be September Song, a husband and wife duo founded in Athens itself back in 2010, and their focus is music from the 60s.

The final band of the Sounds of Summer will play August 4th, the Tim Hughes Quartet, a Jazz-centered band also based in Athens.

Though these are the only three playing in this second half of the summer, you don’t want to miss out on their tunes!

Fill Your Kids’ Bellies

and Their Brains at E.G Fisher Public Library

By Ryan Moyers

Some children rely on their lunches at school to get by during the day, but what can they do when summer vacation arrives?

E.G Fisher Public Library has a solution: from 11:30 am to noon every Monday to Friday, the library will supply a free lunch to children ages 18 and under all summer long.

Each student gets one lunch, and they eat in the library or on its grounds; therefore, they can also read books! This events gives a wonderful opportunity to read more books while also providing the nutrition some children desperately need.

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

Calendar Of Events 2018 June 30

10:30 AM - Noon

Traditional Bluegrass By:Rusty Nails Bluegrass Band

July 7 10:30 - Noon

Making Corn Husk Dolls By: Maria Goeta

July 14 Noon - 1:30 PM

Hot Wheels & Hot Dogs By: Tony Dotson

July 28 Noon

Summer Luncheon “That Takes The Cake” By: Anne Byrn

August 4

11am - 1 pm

Straightening Stones

By: Laura Lenoir & Coapa Members (Cemeteries of Athens Preservation Association)

August 11

1pm - 2:30pm

Lego Adventure Please Call Museum To Register

July 28 Noon

Summer Luncheon Heritage School Admission Non-Members: $5 Museum Members: Free

Tour Admission Adults: $5 Sr/Students: $3

Museum Hours: Tues - Fri: 10 AM - 5 PM, Saturday: 10 AM - 4 PM, Sun & Mon: Closed 522 W. Madison Avenue, Athens, TN 37303 423-745-0329 | www.livingheritagemuseum.com

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

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

www.monroecountytourism.com

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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MICHELIN • BRIDGESTONE • PRIMEWELL • FIRESTONE & MORE

65 Anniversary Sale th

JUNE 25 - JUNE 30

Get a $70 dollar rebate when you purchase Michelin tires and enjoy another $65 from us to thank you for 65 years of trust. Come by Wednesday to Friday during the Anniversary Sale for a chance at exciting give-ways like a Yeti Cooler or Tennessee vs Florida tickets.

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McMINN LIFE

AT H E N S • L E N O I R C I T Y • M A RY V I L L E • FA R R A G U T www.matlocktires.com SUMMER 2018

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SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Bohemian Wedding I

n today’s world, many people turn to music, Broadway or Hollywood movies to find a touching love story that they can invest their hearts and minds into and watch grow from beginning into forever. Fortunately for Will and McKenzie, they need not travel far to experience their own story that would begin as young children and advance into a lifelong commitment that they would make to one another.

Will Thompson and McKenzie Irons first met when they were eight years old as competitors for the Athens Dolphins Summer Swim League.

They would compete for many years afterwards and would remain distance acquaintances as they passed through elementary and middle school. When both entered into high school, McKenzie remained active with her studies and area swim team, the Sea Dragons, while Will focused also on his studies and on other sports.

Although not sharing one single, high school class together throughout their time at McMinn County High School, Will always found McKenzie interesting and wanted the chance to know her better. It wasn’t until their Senior year that Will took a leap of faith and rejoined the swimming world with the intention of hopefully catching McKenzie’s eye. Both were highly dedicated athletes and spent the majority of their free time in the pool practicing or competing in biweekly swim meets. It was during this season that McKenzie recognized her mutual feelings for Will. The two became inseparable from that moment on.

Graduation day came and passed and the pair prepared to go separate directions for school. McKenzie was to attend her first year at Cleveland State Community College, and Will was to begin his first year at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville to pursue a career in engineering. The two felt passionately enough that with hard work and dedication, their relationship would remain strong despite the long distance. After she completed her first year at Cleveland State, McKenzie realized that she too bled orange and white and would join Will in Knoxville to pursue

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SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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a degree in marketing for her remaining three years of schooling. Year two was down and change was in motion. The pair received amazing news that Will had received an opportunity to intern at Nissan in Nashville, TN. Although excited for this honor, Will and McKenzie realized that long distance would now not only be a thing of their past but also their present. The remained focused and began to put plans into motion on how their relationship would work while living in two difference cities. During his time in Nashville, Will would travel every weekend to Knoxville to visit McKenzie. It was in these moments that they realized that they both were in it for the long haul.

The two remained diligent. McKenzie graduated UT Knoxville and returned back to

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Athens to begin her career. Will returned to UT for his final year or school. The couple remained semi-long distance but this time, McKenzie had a ring on her finger which made it all worthwhile. On May 19, 2018, with friend, family, and the Holy Spirit surrounding them, Will and McKenzie became officially inseparable once again.

Every part of their day was filled with laughter, smiles, warmth, love, and Jesus.

The two wed at Central Baptist Church by the pastor and grandfather of McKenzie, Mike Bernard. A reception was to follow at the Bernard Residence in Riceville, TN. On display under a big white tent stood a gorgeous cake that was designed by Will and McKenzie who were inspired by a doughnut the two shared at a bakery in Knoxville. The mother of the bride, Melodye

Irons, hand-made and decorated the cake herself. The bride wore an eloquent flower crown that was designed and created by her dad, Gary Irons. In the corner of the tent, a vintage photo bus stood so guests could create and cherish the memories made. The room was filled with joy and fun as guests enjoyed dancing and a shrimp broil that was prepared by church friends.

It was truly a day to remember.

Now that the excitement has settled, the two live a quaint live in Niota, Tennessee.

McKenzie is a local photographer for the Athens and Knoxville areas and Will is an engineer for Titan Implements in Decatur, Tennessee. The two are so incredibly excited for their God’s plan for their life and are ready to take on all of life’s adventures.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Mark will protect and defend...

• The Constitution • The rights of the unborn • Individual liberty and personal responsibility • Private property rights • Your right to bear arms PROVEN • CONSERVATIVE • LEADER

Education/Background

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from UT • Master’s Degree in Public Administration from UT • Two-Term McMinn County Republican Party Chairman (2013-2017) • Eight years local government experience in McMinn County Mayor’s office • Lifelong member of Englewood First Baptist Church • Chairman of the Community • Action Group of Englewood • Keep McMinn Beautiful Executive Committee • Board Member for State of Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance

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CATTLE FARMER, BUSINESSMAN, FATHER AND GRANDFATHER, AND SEVENTH GENERATION TENNESSEAN Bill Lee has always had a heart for serving others. At one point in his life, he even believed he was destined to become a missionary...until a wise man told him that perhaps the best place for him to serve, for him to make a difference, was right at home in his family business.

As a result of this advice, Bill poured his heart and soul into not only his business, but also his family and his community, always with the intent of making life better for those around him. His strength of character is truly

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remarkable given the hardships he and his family have endured – a strength of character powered by his faith in God. Bill was born and raised in Franklin, Tennessee, the son of a son of a farmer. His grandfather only had about a third-grade education, but Bill’s father and uncle went off to Vanderbilt, got degrees and came back home to start Lee Refrigeration Company. Being the older brother, his dad ran the business, and it began to take off from a small mom and pop company to something far bigger.

Things were going fine for Bill, who also went off to college before coming home to join the family business. He met the first love of his life, Carol Ann, while backpacking in Yellowstone National Park. They married and had four children – Jessica, Jacob, Caleb and Sarah Kate. On a family vacation back to Yellowstone to share the land of their youth with their kids, Bill recalls experiencing the best day of his life. The day was filled with family fun and adventure and culminated with a chance to view one of Bill’s favorite animals – mountain goats.

On that journey, Carol Ann remembered a passage about mountain goats from the Book of Job, which Bill jokingly admits is not a book of the Bible he reads very often.

Job, a good and faithful servant of God, is beset by numerous tragedies to test his faith.

When Job asks God, “Why me?” God responds and says, “Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me…Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?” (Job 38:3; Job 39:1, NIV) Bill had no idea this passage spoken to him on the best day of his life would soon help him get through the worst day of his life.

A few weeks after their family vacation, Bill was driving home from work. Lee Company was growing exponentially, his oldest daughter was off on a mission trip and, on this particular day, he pulled into the family farm to the sight of his twin boys playing as four-year-old Sarah Kate and his wife rode off on a horse. Bill honked and waved at them, never expecting his life was about to change forever.

Shortly thereafter, he found his young daughter wandering alone in a field. There had been an accident. The horse had thrown both riders, and while Sarah Kate escaped unharmed, Carol Ann was badly injured. Bill describes the experience as being like having a glass vase drop to the pavement – you look at it, and you know you can never put it back together again. Later, as he sat at the hospital with her in a coma, he pulled out his Bible and turned to the same passage she’d read to him only weeks prior and thought, “God is the same on the worst day of my life as on the best day. Only my

Bill Lee and his family during a mission trip to Uganda. circumstances have changed.” He did not understand it or like it, but he knew there were lessons learned and insight gained from hardships and that they would only serve to strengthen him.

One of these lessons Bill learned at Carol Ann’s gravesite. He was sitting there as the marble marker with her name on it was installed and wondered to himself what she would say if she were there with him. He knew immediately she would say there are only two things in the world that mattered to her – that she knew Him, and that anybody else in the world knows Him because of her.

Bill walked out of the cemetery revitalized and knowing he needed to apply this principle to the rest of his life, no matter what might come.

Bill took a break from his company to focus on being a single dad, but tragedy was far from over. One day, his oldest daughter drove home from school in the middle of the day, took a gun and shot herself in the head. Bill found himself traveling down the same road to the same hospital where his wife had died, the helicopter carrying his daughter flying overhead, and he had no idea if she would survive.

Thankfully, his daughter did survive, and what could have been another great tragedy actually helped mend holes in their relationship. In fact, Bill is pleased to say he has a remarkable relationship with all his children – not in spite of the struggles they faced, but because of them.

“As for me, I will always have hope.” Psalm 71:14 SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Bill met the second great love of his life, Maria, at his children’s school where she was a teacher. He says “ They already loved her.”

Bill eventually returned to the family company, making tough choices and through staunch determination, he repositioned the Lee Company for success to where they now have over 1,200 employees.

In addition to running a successful business and 1,000-acre cattle ranch, Bill has also been heavily involved in the community. He has mentored at-risk youth through YCAP and inmates through the Men of Valor prison

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ministry, and he has seen how good leadership is so desperately needed in education, criminal justice and workforce reform. Though our state has had powerfully great people to lead it in the past, Bill truly feels that Tennessee can be not just a great state but a leader in the nation.

All we need is the right man at the helm.

This is where Bill hopes his heart for serving others can someday soon serve the State of Tennessee. Just like the greatest leader of all, Jesus Christ, he believes what we need is

someone to serve our state. Someone with not only the proven leadership skills, but the heart and hope to take Tennessee to better places. When tragedy repeatedly struck Bill’s life, he could have shaken his fist up at heaven or given up, but instead, his heart and hope only grew. Now, he is not only a successful businessman and doting father and grandfather, but he found his second great love in his wife, Maria.

On the RV Bill and Maria recently took on the campaign trail, hitting 95 counties in 95 days, they printed Psalm 71:14 – “As for me, I will always have hope.” Bill’s never-ending hope and devoted reliance on his faith have helped him persevere through hardships some of us could never imagine, but it has also forged him into exactly the sort of leader who can not only bring hope, but spread hope, throughout Tennessee.

Leon Lee founded Lee Company in 1944. Today, Lee is a mechanical contracting, facilities and home services company with over 1,200 employees. Our home services include: heating and air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, home security, home improvements, window replacement and appliance repair. We also offer facilities services and solutions for government, institutional, commercial, healthcare and industrial organizations.

• 2017 Top Workplace – The Tennessean

Among our many recognitions, Lee Company was recently honored by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America with the 2017 Contractor of the Year award and by the Tennessean newspaper as one of Tennessee’s Top Workplaces.

• 2017 Nashville Business Journal Fast 50

• 13 Excellence in Construction Awards from the Greater Tennessee and North Alabama Associated Builders and Contractors Chapters • 2017 Residential Contractor of the year from ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America)

• 2017 Sizzle Awards: Best Electrician, Best Plumbing and Best Heating and Air provider in Williamson County

NASHVILLE • MURFREESBORO • BLUEGRASS • NORTH ALABAMA • GALLATIN • MOUNT JULIET • CUMBERLAND

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Long Cove, Hilton Head Island

“TRUE VALUE IS WHEN QUALITY OF PRODUCT AND QUALITY OF PRICE MEET.

Gary Braden, CEO, and Nick Braden, Vice President

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

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A Letter From City Manager

C. SETH SUMNER

“Strong, beautiful, prosperous communities don’t just happen.

They require vision, determination, and years of planning.”

“Ouch!” With twin five-year-olds, that is something heard nearly daily in our home; usually followed with “What hurts?,”

by Katie or myself. We have found that sometimes it’s more than just a scrape or bruise, but something that Georgia or Carl Mason have a tough time explaining. Not all pains are visible, or easy to understand like a bump on the forehead from not paying attention to where I’m walking. Some pains, as we have experienced, are what many refer to as “growing pains.”

Just like my children, the City of Athens is experiencing growing pains, and rest assured, there are more to come. With the lowest unemployment rates in history; numerous existing industries are doubling down and creating hundreds of new and higher paying jobs; public and private partnerships are spurring the rehabilitation of our historic downtown commercial properties; and the City is investing to

rehabilitate neighborhood parks, as well as build new exciting lifestyle amenities.

We are seeing the responsible growth of Athens that should make anyone proud.

A renewed energy is being seen, felt, and heard throughout the community.

Everyday, I hear from citizens who are feeling those growing pains and seeing the progress that comes afterward. I continue to be encouraged by these developments and hope you are as well. So maybe, like my beautiful and growing children, Athens too will be a little bigger, a little stronger, a little friendlier, and more proud of who we are becoming.

Please continue to share your hopes and dreams with us, and together, we will move Athens forward.

Genuinely, C. Seth Sumner

Together,

we will move Athens forward.

Please share your hopes

and dreams for a brighter future with us. www.CityofAthensTN.com

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Why are my

plants not blooming?

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

W

hen I was younger, every spring I would go buy plants without thinking or paying attention to what they needed for success. I was only concerned with my color scheme or if I thought the plant was pretty (or in my case on sale). I have been known to plant Marigolds in the shade. The first week everything still looked OK. As the weeks went by the blooms disappeared and the plants grew tall and leggy, I continued to water and fertilize but with no success. Finally, by the first of August both I and the marigolds’ were tired. I ignored the final days of my marigold’s life and obviously she never got to be a show stopper since she was always dreaming of the sun.

We are all frustrated when our plants fail to flower. What are the reasons? Poor growth, could be poor soil, or the soil could have been too hard too wet, or dry. I know this sounds like goldilocks’ and the three bears. We want the plant to be just right, therefore we have to know what growing conditions are best for each individual plant. I once planted roses in an area in the yard that was bare and so barren even Bermuda grass was not interested in this soil. Fortunately it was in full sunlight and the heavy clay soil proved to be good so that the roses succeeded.

Improper fertilization, or over feeding plants is just as bad as under nourishment. This is where professional always stress that you should start with a soil test. Nitrogen is what lawns like. Plants that produce flowers or fruit need a more balanced diet. Fertilizers are to plants what vitamins are to humans; they provide supplemental nutrients and minerals that plants might not otherwise obtain. Fertilizers may be

Written By Gayle Fisher organic or synthetic and you can purchase fertilizers formulated to promote the growth of a particular plant like azaleas.

The first ingredient listed on a box or bag of fertilizer is Nitrogen content. This is necessary for leaf growth and supplies plants with the proteins needed to create tissues. Nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere, but exists in a form that plants cannot use. Fertilizer is necessary to give plants the nitrogen they need. Phosphorus is the second item listed and it helps plants grow roots and increases seed size. It aids plants in energy transfer and gives them a head-start when it is time to produce flowers and fruit. Third is Potassium, it strengthens the stems of plants which helps with transporting water. This nutrient also improves disease resistance, helps plants make carbohydrates and regulates metabolic activities within plants.

Soil often lacks the necessary ingredients and properties that plants need in order to thrive.

This effect is amplified in soil that has been used before. Plants absorb nutrients from the soil and leave it less fertile with each use.

Fertilizer replaces the nutrients in soil and helps it retain moisture.

Too much fertilizer is detrimental and causes fertilizer burn due to the high concentration of nitrogen. I just experienced this last week when I dropped some 34-0-0 on a grass path, the rain never came and now the grass tops are brown. I don’t think I have killed the grass but I have definitely hurt my cause.

Another problem is insufficient light. This is where my marigold story started. If you put

a sun loving plant in shade don’t expect the flowers to continue. If the label instructing you about care of your new plant has a picture of the sun or says I love the sun. It will need six to eight hours of sun per day. The same is true putting a shade plant in the sun.

The leaves will burn and growth will be stunted.

Your plant could be a teenager and not ready to flower. It is growing leaves and establishing roots, when this is accomplished then the plant can start producing fruit or flowers. This is why you never see seedlings blooming. This problem is rare in annuals but it you have a flowering tree or bush you may have to wait longer before you see results.

The too wet or too dry is hard decision. If a plant wilts during a summer day but then perks back up during the night and looks fine in the morning you plant could be suffering from heat wilt not water wilt. I watch my hydrangeas lay down and wilt each afternoon but they look fine in the morning light.

My husband and I planted some boxwoods and after the first season they had turned red with winter burn. The second year they looked yellow and stunted. I dug up one of the plants to look at the roots in my effort to diagnose the problem. Danny being more cavalier said he would take care of them.

He gathered some grandchildren all under the age of six, gave them a bag of lime and a bag of 6-12-12 fertilizer. Each child had a Tennessee stadium cup. He then instructed them to put a cup of each on every plant.

I was horrified. The third year the plants looked great. Go figure.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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The Best of East Tennessee

By Sydnee Brashears

Camping in Tennessee is a time-honored tradition, to take in the natural beauty of our Smoky Mountains and the changing leaves in the fall that would leave Vermont jealous.

When you live in the city, however, it can be hard to know which camping spots are best for a family trip, an overnight, or just a quick hike through the woods. Here’s a quick list of the best places to enjoy nature whenever you feel the need to get out there, but not too far from home.

One of the most popular campsites in East Tennessee is called Cades Cove. Located just 11 miles from Townsend, the campground is open year-round with check-in starting at 11 am. Not only is it beautiful and populated with Tennessee wildlife such as white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and turkeys, it also has a great historical value to Tennessee. The Native American Cherokee tribe used to hunt at Cades Cove, and the settlers of the area left behind the most var-

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ied historical buildings concentrated in the Smoky Mountains! Offering everything from RV camping spots to tents, you can rough it however you feel comfortable.

Also in Townsend is the Little River Campground. Recently under new management, the park boasts fishing, camping, a newly redesigned bathhouse, as well as WiFi and mature trees. With day passes from $15, the Little River is the perfect little spot in the Smokies.

Hidden in Tellico, meanwhile, is a place called Indian Boundary. Considered the Crown Jewel of Cherokee forest, Indian Boundary is an 87-spot campground that boasts a variety of activities like swimming, fishing, biking, and wildlife observation. Only open from April to November, it costs $10 a night to stay at any standard electricity-supplied space.

One of my favorite spots in Crossville is called Deer Run RV Resort. Open year-

round with a $10 refundable gate fee, Deer Run RV Resort is gorgeous no matter the weather. With an enormous lake for fishing, swimming, and waterboarding, a pool, as well as access to a communal shower and activities planned by staff throughout the day, Deer Run RV Resort is a great place to bring the family. And you don’t need an RV, either- they offer places for tent camping as well as cabins. There are limited hiking trails, but this is a place to sit and enjoy yourself by the water.

Other family-friendly parks include the Norris Dam State Park that offers several lengths of hiking trails, several pull-ins, and nearby attractions like the Museum of Appalachia.

Not including the $5 non-refundable reservation fee, the campground at Norris Dam costs between $15-$27 a night depending on where you stay. This park does include a laundromat, so you can stay long after the first socks get muddy. If you prefer climbing over hiking, The Obed Lilypad on the Cumberland Plateau is a climber’s paradise and inexpensive at $5 a night. Though it sits on private land, the Obed Lilypad is open to all those who want to tackle Tennessee’s rocky top.

If you want a splashing good time, Tennessee has plenty of waterfalls, creeks, and bends to keep you cool in our famously humid summers. Down in Hiwassee, the Gee Creek Campground in Hiwassee/Ocoee

State Scenic River State Park offers a cool swim, a fishing area, and even rafting. It is a primitive campground however, catering to tent users. Depending on how many people are in your party, campsites can be anywhere from $30-$80 a night. If you want something water-related that’s a little more exciting, Nolichucky Gorge on the Nolichucky River near the Tri-cities has the answer. Offering tubing, swimming, and its signature whitewater rafting in late spring, Nolichucky Gorge can either be relaxing or exciting depending on what you’re looking for.

Nolichucky Gorge also offers places for RVs and offers cabins if you want the outdoors to stay out. If you’re only looking to stay for the day it’s $4 per person, and if you want an overnight, prices range from $11.50 a person (kids for $5) to $219 a night for the deluxe family cabin that sleeps 14.

But maybe a relaxing day trip isn’t what you want in a camping experience. Maybe you’re looking for a classic, overnight, backpacking, roughing it experience worthy of stories by the fire both in and outside the house. Given our proximity to the Appalachian Trail, you’re in luck. With over 50 miles of trails, Frozen Head State Park in the Cumberland Mountain offers 10 backcountry sites for backpackers and adventurers. The rates are between $8 and $35 a night. They ask that no one hikes a trail at night, due to the obvious risks involved. For night hiking, the Big South Fork National Park, also on the Cumberland Plateau, offers trails ranging from 11-55 miles for all levels of backpackers. A backcountry permit is required, however, and can be obtained for $5 depending on how many people will be traveling together. Open year-round, the park has no entrance fees.

No matter what your skill, or what you want out of your camping experience, there’s a park for you. Whether you’re an experienced backpacker or an RV owner hoping to enjoy the outdoors, there’s a park for you. Whether you want to whitewater raft or take a tubing cruise, there’s a park for you. Take advantage of the beautiful outdoors of Tennessee. The fantastic natural scenery is waiting.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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SOME MORE OPTIONS FOR YOUR

S’MORES

By Sydnee Brashears

Summer is the time for play, and though I’m sure your mother told you not to play with your food, that’s how these fun new s’more combinations came around. If you want to do something different with your toasty marshmallow this year, check out all these cool ways to do s’mores a little differently.

Salted Caramel S’mores For the decadent taste of salted caramel, replace the chocolate with caramel sauce and apply sea salt. A simple scruple for the sweet tooth in your family!

Hearty S’more For a s’more you don’t have to feel bad about eating for breakfast, slap in some maple bacon for a treat that’s just as nutritious as that breakfast bar you always eat.

Candied S’more Sometimes a s’more is just not sweet enough. If you want to add a little more fun to building a s’more, have a variety of small

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chocolate candies like Kit-Kats or Reece’s Peanut Butter Cup’s instead of typical chocolate. They’re easy to buy in bulk, and if you have leftover Easter candy, what better way to use it?

Mexican S’more The sweet taste of a s’more can be overwhelming. To add a little kick to your s’more, sprinkle cinnamon and chili powder to the chocolate for a south-of-the-border smash of goodness.

Sacrilegious S’more If you like to push things, and you don’t mind stepping on a few s’more purist toes, one unusual but nevertheless interesting combination was brought to me by a friend who prefers to stay anonymous. Adding shredded cheddar cheese (just a pinch!) adds a sharp, salty flavor that I can’t deny is rather pleasant if you can get over the mere idea of adding cheese to a s’more. Try it if you’re feeling brave this summer!

There are a hundred different cool combinations for s’mores outside of the traditional.

What unusual ways have you used to kick off s’more season?

Directions • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lay out the crescent rolls so they’re not so frozen when you start working with them, as they need to be soft and malleable.

INDOOR

S’MORES

By Sydnee Brashears

When I was younger, my favorite foods always involved fire- grilled chicken, hot dogs, and of course, s’mores. Given that you can’t typically set fire inside a house, these treats were understandably rare, and only in the summertime and the eve of fall. As I’ve gotten older, and my opportunity to roast marshmallows slims, I find myself longing for the comfort of an oozing sugary treat. For those of you who feel the same and want some more s’mores in your life, there is a solution. These delectable little desserts taste just like a summer evening, and will light up your mouth like a firefly. Best part of all? They’re easy as pie to make.

Ingredients (12 s’more pies) 2 cans of frozen crescent rolls 2-3 milk chocolate bars (Hershey’s™ works the best) 1 bag of small marshmallows* 1 butter stick (optional; to slather baking pan or iron skillet) *regular size can be used as a substitute, but be sure to compensate by acquiring more crescent rolls.

• Take out a baking pan and cover it with parchment paper, or slather it with a liberal amount of cooking spray or butter/margarine. This dessert is very sticky.

• Take out your marshmallows, chocolate, and (not-so-frozen) crescent rolls. Break off a piece of crescent roll, place one (1) square of chocolate, and two (2) tiny marshmallows. Swaddle them in crescent roll. Repeat until you run out of crescent rolls. (it’s always crescent rolls.)

• Place them on the baking sheet, then in the oven for 15 minutes or until golden.

• Let them cool a bit (typically 2-5 minutes) before removing them from the pan and onto a cooling tray.

Merle Norman Cosmetics 530 South Main St. Sweetwater, TN 37874 423.337.7003

• Serve them while warm. Like regular pies, they’re best when they burn the tongue.

May you and yours enjoy the Indoor S’mores!

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Healthy Hasselback Potatoes

By Sydnee Brashears

When I was in college, I spent a ton on chips, especially salt and vinegar. All those chips soon caught up with me, so I opted for something healthier: kale chips. No matter what I tried, however, I couldn’t quite master the crunch of a real, authentic chip like my mom could. I believed I was cursed, until a bag of russet potatoes saved my snacking–and my waistline.

Ingredients (Makes 6 Hasselback potatoes) 6 medium potatoes* Coconut oil (The amount depends on the size of the potato. A small bottle will serve you well.)

Salt and Pepper to taste *I prefer russet because they’re cheap and cook well, but the type of potato doesn’t matter.

DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Pull out baking pan and apply a little bit of coconut oil to the bottom.

Take out six potatoes, peel, and wash them. Set other potatoes aside and take one of the freshly peeled potatoes and a sharp knife and cut the potato into slices.

Do not cut all the way through, just 3/4 of the way down. This is trickier than it sounds, so don’t feel discouraged if you cut all the way the first few times. Repeat until all potatoes are cut into thin slices.

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Put the potatoes in the baking pan, cut side up, and get out the coconut oil.

the potatoes to your taste; this is a very versatile recipe.

Use a basting brush to gently slather coconut oil on the potatoes. You can also pour it on if no basting brush is available.

Place potatoes in oven and let cook for 45 minutes or until crispy golden.

Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper onto the potatoes.

You can also put other toppings such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper on

Cool for five minutes after removing potatoes from oven.

From here, you can add whatever you like on the potatoes. Just pull them apart and you have some crispy golden chips that taste great, and make you feel great afterwards.

Chris Blue with Pat Summitt advisory board member, Mary Ellen Brewington, Steve Brewington, and their guests

The

Voice WINNER CHRIS

BLUE 2018 Salute for a Cure Performed at The Pat Summitt Foundation’s

Tyler Summitt and former Lady Vols team members in attendance

T

he Pat Summitt Foundation’s annual Salute for a Cure fundraising event was held on Thursday, April 26, 2018. The event was held at newly opened venue, The Press Room, located at 730 North Broadway, Knoxville, Tennessee. Over 380 guests attended and enjoyed a nicely prepared dinner, live auction, and performance

by Chris Blue, the 2017 winner of

Chris Blue with East Tennessee Foundation and The Pat Summitt Foundation staff

Karen Kinney, Coach Kyra Elzy, Annette Baddour Hill and Sherry Guthrie

NBC’s hit show “The Voice.” Before Blue’s performance, the program included updates about the Foundation from executive director, Patrick Wade, and a moving speech

by Coach Summitt’s son, Tyler Summitt.

Attendees enjoyed a private concert performed by Chris Blue, including his full band, back-up singers and dancers. He concluded his set with an epic performance of Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation.”

This event, organized by event chair Louise Frazier and her wonderful committee, raised $70,000 for the Foundation to help support its mission, which is focused on Alzheimer’s patient care, medical research and caregiver support. The committee has already started planning for the 2019 event.

If you would like to learn more about this event and The Pat Summitt Foundation, please visit www.patsummitt.org.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Celebrating Our Country’s Birthday When decorating for the Fourth of July, we like to keep things simple. My girls and I opt out of springing for elaborate displays, choosing a family project approach. They cut out cheese stars for the hotdog display while I create a pot of red geraniums from the garden. Accenting with white and blue hydrangea for a perfect table display. Batterypowered string lights and several American flags complete the look. Together, we make cupcakes and layered fruit desserts to incorporate our holiday enthusiasm. With our backyard bonanza ready, we welcome family and friends to celebrate America’s Birthday! The mix of generations present bring reflection to the history that brought us here united as one nation under God. A reminder given to all with the use of my vintage postcard collection to marry the old and the new.

Lisa Bingham

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

Your care is our focus.

Examinations · Contact Lenses · Eye Injuries & Diseases Phone: (423) 746-9988 | Fax: (423) 746-9984 P.O. Box 1864406 W. Madison Ave. | Athens, TN 37371-1864 toomeybaggetteyecare.com

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Hot Springs: the Hottest Destination Written By Sydnee Brashears

About 77 miles east of Knoxville, the hottest destination for retreat and healing can be found. Hot Springs, North Carolina has a rich history of being a center for healing and retreat. That history dates back to 2,500 B.C, when according to the petroglyphs found on Paint Rock, the presence of Native Americans can be traced. It is believed to be a stopping point for prayer on their way to the springs.

The Native Americans were the first to discover the 100-plus degree mineral water for which the Town of Hot Springs was named. Later in 1778, settlers from the colonies brought the sick over the mountains for the healing waters. By the 1800’s, three hotels were built to accommodate those who came for the clean mountain air and healing soak in the springs.

Hot Springs is one of the few sources of geothermally heated mineral water in

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the United States, having the perfect temperature for a comfortable soak.

Nature in it’s amazing ability heats the water that percolates deep enough into the earth’s crust as it comes into contact with hot rocks. Due to heated water holding dissolved solids, the hot springs have very high mineral content, everything from calcium to lithium.

The Hot Springs Resort and Spa and Broadwing Farms are the venues offering access to the hot springs water. The Resort has private tubs available for soaking by the hour. Broadwing Farm’s private hot tubs are available with rental of their mountain cabins. The choices for accommodations are plenty despite being a charming one gas station town. You will find the option of a cabin in the woods, hotel suite at the inn, lodging above the downtown shops or glamping in a luxury tent.

It’s a guaranteed good night of rest.

Once the healing waters have washed away the worries of life, you can retreat to the feeling of relaxation that defines this town.

From taking in nature, enjoying wonderful food, to the music and arts festivals, and great shopping. There are no malls or chain stores here, however, you will find an unique array of locally-owned shops to find crafts and gifts. Have a scoop of your favorite flavor at the old-fashion ice cream store. Taste the cuisine available in the local restaurants sure to treat any palette, from the soul food at Smoky Mountain Diner to the wine and dine at Mountain Magnolia Inn Restaurant.

There are fun experiences for people of all ages and interests. Hot Springs is not just unique for the natural hot waters of healing, the Appalachian Trail was built through the town over seven decades ago, making it the southernmost town through which the trail overlaps its streets. The

abundant services for the A.T. hikers includes the Hot Springs Library designed with a room for backpacks, free wifi, electronic charging stations and hiker services. Vacationers can enjoy spending a few hours on the Appalachian Trail with day-hiking opportunities, including the renowned 360 degree views of Max Patch, the Rich Mountain Fire Tower and Lover’s Leap. Easy of all, with the A.T. literally intertwined with the sidewalks, just take a stroll downtown.

Hot Springs is host to a variety of arts and culture events throughout the year. The “nestled in” the mountains location adds something special to the festivals of which draw speakers, artists, musicians, and more from all over the world. People are drawn to Hot Springs for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Hiking, fishing, rafting, horseback riding and a tradition of arts and crafts dating back to the settlers.

Hot Springs is a haven for those seeking a mountain retreat that is sure to heal the body, mind and soul.

July 12 - 15, 2018 | Hot Springs, NC It’s a place where all kinds of people come together, not only to hear great music and incredible speakers, but also to dive into lively conversations with thought leaders, writers, dreamers, artists, visionaries, social justice activists, peace-makers the ones you’ll find on the official program, and the ones you might meet while just getting lunch or hanging out by the river. It’s also a place where you can be a spectator, but

where you can be a co-creator as well. A place where we affirm the creativity in all of us, and opportunities to make art and music, to tell stories and take in stories, can be found around every corner.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their website at wildgoosefestival.org

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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moments in his career that defined how he would later lead the ranks at ORAU.

ANDY PAGE:

Taking ORAU Further Together “Further together” is more than an organizational motto for ORAU President and CEO Andy Page—it’s how he believes success in life or in business is attained.

Throughout Page’s career, which includes 25 years of service in the Marine Corps, he has finessed a leadership style that emphasizes teamwork and relies on unleashing the power of ORAU’s employees, researchers, scientists and students to solve some of the nation’s most challenging scientific problems.

Before accepting his appointment as ORAU’s president in 2009, Page honed his skills as a team builder and leader in the honored tradition of the U. S. Marine Corps through progressively accepting greater roles and responsibilities as part of his service. Serving as an Infantry Officer in the Marine Corps Fleet Marine and Security Forces plus high level staff assignments at Headquarters Marine Corps, and as deputy branch head of amphibious ships and programs on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon, Page believes it was certain

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One of the most exciting and focused times in Page’s career in the Marine Corps was being a part of the first special operations capable Marine Expeditionary Units deployed to the Mediterranean shortly following a fatal bombing of the Marine barracks at the Beirut International Airport.

His unit’s mission was to be involved with over the horizon noncombatant evacuation operations, amphibious raids and peacekeeping efforts off the coast of Lebanon after 241 U.S. service men and women were killed in the Beirut bombing, 220 of those being Marines.

“Being involved in operations like this one required performing at the highest level of security and operating as nothing less than a high functioning team,” Page said. “We were suddenly thrust into a very high tempo

of operations and required to conduct any number of special operations to fit new mission profiles after the bombing in Beirut. The urgency and importance of the deployment and preparation for its missions created a special bond of teamwork in my unit which I have never forgotten”.

Recalling that experience, Page reminisced on the somber time his unit had a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter crash into the ocean while training for one of these new special operations. Of the 19 on board, 14 Marines and the Battalion’s Navy Chaplain were killed.

“We only had a day to recover the deceased and their equipment, Page recalled. “The next morning we had to be ready to do the mission again.”

What stays with him today was in the pre-dawn darkness of that morning, seeing one of the Marines who survived the crash,

ORAU’s CEO and President Andy Page (third in from left) joined ORAU as vice president and director of ORAU’s National Security and Emergency Management Program in 1999. He also managed ORAU’s counterterrorism readiness programs for other government agencies.

a Satellite Radio Operator, laden down with all his radio and tactical equipment standing in the helicopter team ready to go again. After this young Marine had barely survived the fatal crash the day before, he was ready to participate in the same operation the next day.

“He was the first one in line,” Page recalls.

“Because I was there when we rescued him the day before, I think I was the only one who recognized him as one of the crash victims. I put my arms around him and asked if he was okay and he said, ‘just fine, SirSemper Fi (Always Faithful).’ That Marine’s dedication, courage and commitment to our unit and mission has always stayed with me as the one of the best examples of leadership I witnessed during my service-- and it didn’t come from a high ranking general or staff non-commissioned officer, but from a Private First Class Radio Operator.

Page said this taught him that leadership and inspiration can, and usually does, come from any level of an organization and can be manifested in the simplest of ways. Through these mission-focused experiences, he learned that teamwork is the best solution to solving a problem, which is the leadership style he upholds at ORAU. Today as president and CEO, Page provides comprehensive oversight, strategic direction

and leadership for ORAU and its diverse set of missions involving STEM workforce development, scientific assessment, worker health, environmental management and radiological emergency response. A part of ORAU’s mission involves providing support to a myriad of government programs, such as ORAU’s flagship contract with the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).

ORAU also supports the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and DOE national labs including Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the National Energy Technology Laboratory. In 2017, ORAU was awarded the Tennessee Valley Corridor (TVC) Champion Award for its demonstrated leadership, contributing to economic development, developing advanced technology and promoting collaborative efforts.

Beyond taking ORAU employees to their greatest potential, Page encourages a company-wide attitude of altruism through community service initiatives. Since 2001, ORAU has contributed 416,000 books to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Additional community projects that ORAU has made a priority in 2017 included building and sponsoring its third Habitat for Humanity house in Anderson County and contributing $100,000 toward the building of a Peace Pavilion for the International

Friendship Bell. ORAU celebrated its 10th year of Extreme Classroom Makeover in 2018, which provides $25,000 in technology and classroom upgrades to an East Tennessee teacher. Since the program’s inception, ORAU has provided $336,000 in Extreme Classroom Makeovers to area schools. Through ORAU’s Education Grants program, $487,000 has been awarded in the past 15 years to local teachers for funding educational projects that enrich STEM programs. In March, ORAU partnered with ORISE and the Oak Ridge Rotary Club to package 20,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger. This year, however, Page said he is most excited about finding new ways to empower employees.

“I’d really like to give employees more latitude to question those above them and voice concerns. I want to ensure them that their ideas are being heard,” Page said. “I still remember what that Radio Operator taught me from my Marine Corps days: that leadership and inspiration can come from any and every level of the organization.”

Page lives in West Knoxville with his wife, Cheryl, five dogs and a cat. In his spare time, he is the logistician and pay master for “The Page Family Shameless Princess Tours” at Disney World with his granddaughter Annabel and all the other “princesses” in the family. He also likes to spend time at his beach house in North Carolina.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

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Corporate Overview

1,058 23

ORAU (Oak Ridge Associated University) is a scientific and technical solutions provider, offering

Employees in

specialized teams of experts, unique laboratory capabilities and access to the talent of more than 100 major research universities to advance science, education and workforce development; strengthen emergency preparedness and response; and protect health and the environment. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and federal contractor, ORAU manages ORISE for DOE.

Locations

California Colorado Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Idaho Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Massachusetts

$399.7M IN REVENUE

$310.2M Workforce Development

Minnesota Nevada North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Rhode Island South Carolina Tennessee Texas Virginia Washington

$14.8M ScientiďŹ c Assessment

$57.6M Health & Environment

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$393.4M

$401.3M

$399.7M

200

$361.5M

Sponsoring Institutions

Revenue in millions

121

300

$364.4M

400

$7.6M Preparedness & Response $9.5M Other

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

100

0

SHOP. DINE. REPEAT. Located just 35 minutes south of West Knoxville along Interstate 75, the perfect destination for the curios traveler’s day trip patiently awaits. Unique and unforgettable shopping, attractions, dining and recreation proudly distinguish Sweetwater, Tennessee, from the typical “Southern Small Town.” The town has been awarded national recognition for its diverse attractions and events for the visitor and resident alike. Travelers are welcomed with a friendly greeting to a hassle-free environment where it is easy to kick back, shop, dine, explore and relax while enjoying this treasure nestled at the foothills of the Cherokee National Forest in beautiful East Tennessee.

The Lost Sea and Tsali Notch Vineyard, Tennessee’s largest muscadine vineyard, are both located just a short drive from the heart of the town.

It’s not hard to see, a day trip to Sweetwater, Tennessee, will leave visitors with memories of a unique and quaint town that calls them back for a quick getaway time and time again.

BIRTHPL ACE MUSEUM

SEQUOYAH BY CARLYLE URELLO 1988 TENNESSEE STATE MUSEUM

1776-1843

FATHER, SOLDIER, SILVERSMITH, STATESMAN AND CREATOR OF THE CHEROKEE WRITING SYSTEM.

ALL NEW MUSEUM EXHIBIT Open Year Round Monday - Saturday: 9 - 5 Sunday Noon: 5pm

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore opened in 1986 to promote the understanding and appreciation of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians history and culture. The centerpiece being the life and contributions of Sequoyah, creator of the Cherokee Writing System. While enlisted in the War of 1812, Sequoyah became to understand the power of written word. After the war, with no ability to read or write himself, Sequoyah started his work to create a writing and writing system for the Cherokee language. In 1821, after 12 years of work, Sequoyah introduced his syllabary to the Cherokee people. Within months thousands of Cherokee became literate. By 1828 they were publishing the “Cherokee Phoenix�, the first national bilingual newspaper. Sequoyah was awarded a silver metal by the Cherokee Nation for his contributions and service to the Cherokee people, a dedication he continued as a statesman and diplomat until his death.

For the past thirty years, Sequoyah Birthplace Museum has successfully promoted this history, the continued goal of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians for the museum.

The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum has completed the major renovation that began last year. The new museum experience includes the latest audio-visual technology bringing the Cherokee Nation and the man, Sequoyah to life. Innovative exhibits are now enjoyed within the two main theaters, assorted audio-visual programs throughout and life-cast figures created from living models to present Sequoyah in age progression from 10 years old to about 45 years of age. The new collection of artifacts and engaging exhibits illustrates the forward thinking of this great man and takes each visitor back in time unfolding history. www.sequoyahmuseum.org

The 2.7 Million Dollar Renovation Is Complete!

Advanced media technologies and electronics enhance visitors’ enjoyment of this all new exhibit. It portrays the Cherokee life and the legacy of Sequoyah in an all new multi-million dollar remodeled museum open now! The modern museum includes videos, dioramas, new additions to the Native American artifacts, paintings and interactive tools telling the story of this great man and the Cherokee Indian people.

Sequoyah Events Sequoyah Remembrance Day August 5, 12:30 - 4pm

Monroe Life Balloon Fiesta September 1 & 2, 2 - 10pm

The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum will observe Sequoyah Remembrance Day on Sunday, Aug.5, 2018 from 12:30-4 p.m. with free admission to the Museum. Cherokee artisans will be on hand to demonstrate their skills and art. This is a day to remember the man, Sequoyah, who gave the Cherokee people their own written language.

Sequoyah Remembrance Day is celebrated the first Sunday of August every year.

The museum is going to host a new event this year, the 6th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Fiesta. Over 20 Hot Air Balloon pilots!

The Balloon Fiesta has many wonderful events over the course of Labor Day Weekend, such as tethered balloon rides, craft stations and activities for the kids. Each day ends at dusk with a beautiful Balloon Glow to music! This event is a fundraiser for CASA Monroe. www.monroelifeballoonfiesta.com

27th Annual Cherokee Fall Festival

September 8 & 9, Hours 10am - 5pm The Cherokee Festival holds many artisans making crafts such as basket weaving, traditional Native American food, and music and dance from the tribes. There are also lectures to listen to about the history of the Cherokee.

FALL 2017

A magazine for the

people of Monroe

County and those

who come to visit.

Don’t Miss the 5th Annual Muscadine Balloo

This Labor Day Weekenn Fiesta! d

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE FALL 2017 MONROE LIFE

a

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As a Farm Bureau Member Saving Money Has Never Been Easier!

McMinn County 2017-2018 Board of Directors standing left to right: Dick Hashe, Wade Shultz, Margaret Bohannon, Alfreda Tilley, Nancy Strasser, Sandra Guthrie, Jerry Flatt. Sitting left to right: Jerry Prince, Tom Strasser, Board President Rush Guthrie, Mike Gentry, Walter Barham

You Can Save On: • Hotels • Car Rentals • Movie Tickets • Restaurants • Sports • Oil Changes • Theme Parks • Automobiles • Home Security & Much More

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT MORE INFORMATION ON BECOMING A MEMBER? Contact McMinn County Farm Bureau • 208 Congress Pkwy S • Athens, TN • 423-745-4521

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McMINN LIFE SUMMER 2018

Farm Bureau Members Save on Travel

Save $6 on Adult or Child One Day Tickets

$500 Bonus Cash for Farm Bureau Members

Download your TN Farm Bureau Member Savings app or register at tnfarmbureau. org/membersavings to start saving today!

Happenings: June 1 & 2

Etowah Annual Custom Car Show and Street Rod

L&N Depot Grounds. Friday Night Cruise In/10 a.m.

– 5 p.m. Saturday. For information call 572-0999

June 2

Athens Soap Box Derby

7 a.m. – 4 p.m., Keith Lane in Athens. For information call 462-5772 June 4-8

Kids Arts Camp 2018 “Primetime Rewind” One week camp. June 4-8 at Westside Elementary June 11-15

Kids Arts Camp 2018 at Westside Elementary June 18-22

Kids Arts Camp 2018 at Niota Elementary.

For information call 745-8781

June 30

Englewood Celebrate & Saginaw Corn Festival

Downtown Englewood. 7 a.m. Pancake Breakfast – Square Dance at 7:30 p.m.

July 4

Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration

All Day at the L&N Depot. For information call 263-2228 July 4

Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks 9:30 p.m. Athens Regional Park

June 11-22

Learn to Swim

Times vary on age and skill. Ingleside Pool.

Call (423) 462-5772

July 9-13

“Robin Hood” 2 week theatre intensive

An original musical adaptation written and directed

by Kelly & Bob Borwick, Pam Thigpen. $150, scholarships available. For information call 745-8781.

July 14

River Town Festival

Starts 10 a.m. at Hiwassee Meadowlands Park in Calhoun. Food, craft vendors, games for kids, music.

SUMMER 2018 McMINN LIFE

47

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