Monroe Life Spring 2019

SPRING 2019

Life

Monroe The Lord Is My Shepherd MEMPHIS IN MAY

AND LOTS OF SPRING FESTIVALS

UT Heart Hospital Jim Gray

The Artist's Memories SPRING 2019 MONROE LIFE

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Spring Patio Sale

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

Gary Braden, CEO, and Nick Braden, Vice President

THIS IS WHAT WE STRIVE TO PROVIDE.”

Braden’s

LIFESTYLES AT TURKEY CREEK

www.bradens.com NO SALES TAX OR ONE YEAR SAME AS CASH

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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

T E N N E S S E E

HUNTING & TRAPPING GUIDE

EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2015 - JULY 31, 2016

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

www.tnwildlife.org Follow us on:

Includes 2016 Spring Turkey Season

MARKETING • MEDIA • WEB DESIGN • TELEVISION

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Community Health Services

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YEARS OF BRANDING EXPERIENCE

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YEARS OF IN-HOUSE TELEVISION PRODUCTION

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CUSTOM MAGAZINES A YEAR

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 2017 FARRAGUT LIFE

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The Lord Is My Shepherd Billie Walker, bottle feeds and nurses these little ones back to health as a ministry. Crystal Stargel captures beautiful photography of these gentile lambs.

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JUDY LAVOIE

SPRING WILDFLOWER PILGRIMAGE

Artist of theYear

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Contents features

On A Hallowed Hill In Tennessee

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Jim Gray The Joy of Life Parade

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Heart Hospital

66

The National Civil Rights Museum

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38

Megan Hurst Music

Harrah’s Hope Lodge & Dr. Matthew Wilson 4

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44

Brittany andBrett

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departments

GALLAHER BEND LAKEHOUSE &

6 From The Publisher

MADELYN & CHAD CUNNINGHAM’S WEDDING

24 East Tennessee Foundation

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41 Looking Back

Place of Good Abode

Smoky Mountain Lights

48 Boys & Girls Clubs 56 Spring Festivals

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National Cornbread Festival Niota Model Railroad Show Spring Craft Plaza Townsend Old Timers Day

72 We Love It! Bucket List

She Said Yes! Check out this amazing gown and incredible wedding in Atlanta that is featured in “Say Yes To The Dress”

www.monroelife.com

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Wingin’ It Andrew Curtis

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From The Publisher It’s Spring...and summer, fall and winter. Just kidding, but also somewhat true with our unique East Tennessee weather. As the temperatures begin to settle in a true spring, we can all get prepared for all of the incredible springtime activities and festivals. I especially love Easter, there is so much around this time that is family friendly and gathers us together to celebrate that He is Risen, Our Lord and Savior conquered death and rose from the grave. Enjoying the traditions and creating new ones with my three girls, Kathryn, Kelsey and Alyssa make spring so much sweeter.

PUBLISHER

It is an honor to begin another year of sharing the stories of amazing people and places that make East Tennessee the best place to live. In this issue, we share about the incredible innovative care at the University of Tennessee Medical Center with a showcase on the cardiac care provided to the region. The blessing of this facility affecting my family personally and we are thankful for the physicians and facility giving unmatched care to us.

Graphic Designers Becky Brooks Brett Hawkins

The Bingham Group

Monroe

President Lisa Atkins Bingham Art Director Becky Brooks

Contributing Writers CeCe Owens Kaitlin Edquist Lon Shoopman

Check out the amazing Jim Gray, his incredible artistic talent is truly a gift from the heavens, timeless images captured on canvas.

Cover Photo Crystal Stargel

You will also have the opportunity to learn about Gallaher Bend, a beautiful wedding venue in Knoxville. The love story behind the first wedding at the venue is a story for the Hallmark Channel. The venue owners are none other than Joe and Kathleen Atkins of JOPHOTO, successful photographers giving their all for these couples.

It is also special to feature the wedding of our very own, Brett Hawkins who married his sweetheart, Brittany in March.

Contributing Photographers Brett Hawkins Crystal Stargel JOPHOTO Lawrence Hsia Lon Shoopman Noble Guyon Robert Burleson Ziggy Mack

It is Memphis in May, an international festival that happens annually. The timing of a city bicentennial has Memphis blooming with activities of celebration. Check out all of the events for getting the most out of this special Lunch in Elvis’ Booth at the Arcade Restaurant time in Memphis, make plans to visit. In this issue, you will also learn about in Memphis.

Harrah’s Hope Lodge and the Hamilton Eye Institute, both located in Memphis.

Dr. Wilson at the Hamilton Eye Institute was my doctor when I needed cancer surgery, I am so thankful for him. We have really developed an appreciation for Memphis’ activities and the specialist there.

Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com

Check out MonroeLife.com or follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest happenings in our area. There are so many wonderful stories in this issue of Monroe Life. We hope you enjoy and have a Blessed Easter-He’s Alive and We’re Forgiven!

Lisa Bingham President The Bingham Group Publisher of Monroe, McMinn & Farragut Life Magazines 6

Life

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Subscription or Editorial Inquiries

Tel: 865.523.5999 www.farragutlife.com

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

The Lord Is My Shepherd One of the most beautiful and well known passages in God’s Word is the 23rd Psalm written by King David as a young shepherd boy about His loving Shepherd The Lord God. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even when I walk in the valley of darkness, I will fear no evil for You are with me; Your rod and Your staf -they comfort me. You set a table before me in the presence of my adversaries; You anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. May only goodness and kindness pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever and ever.

The psalm brings comfort, provides hope and offers the peaceful outlook required to walk through the sometimes difficult stages of our lives. It is also the foundation for which Billie Karen Walker bases her life. She finds motivation in these words.

“Yes, it’s great therapy and my peace and walk with God,” she said, “being a shepherd to these precious lambs and sheep.”

From a child, Billie Karen had always been drawn to how God used and inspired writings using the analogy of the sheep for His children. She always wanted to get a hands on experience as a good shepherd to be like Jesus and know these beloved animals.

It started in a simple way with the acreage behind the home she shares with her husband, Paul. The back room of the home, overlooking this additional land, is a place for Bible study and visual enjoyment of the outdoors by Billie Karen, “It seemed so empty - it needed animals”, she reflected.

As she thought about what kind of animal, she remembered the Sheep farm of friends, Bryan and Mia Sage Beason, they passed daily coming home. She gave them a call asking if

possible to come by to pet and love on one of the gentle creatures. It was a touch that reminded her of that childhood calling.

Billie Karen also visited another shepherd, Kristen Svensen, of Foggy Knob Farm, who spent many hours sharing knowledge about the lambs and sheep. Discovering that the bottle fed ones required extra love and care, she reflected on that acreage behind her home and how beautiful their presence would be in the green pastures. “May I care for these lambs and other sheep on my land”, she asked Brian and Mia Sage Beason. With resounding approval and support to get started from them, Bille Karen Walker the Shepherd was born.

She was instantly in love with the lambs and sheep, sharing her vision with her family and close friends. A vision supported daily by husband, Paul; daughter, Halie Anna Duncan and her husband, Nathan; father, Bill Grady; friends, Leslie, Macy and Meadow and her amazing neighbors.

It is the perfect home, just the sight of them grazing and playing about in the field brings

peace. It is exactly as the words the song of David says: The Lord is my Shepherd. Billie Karen is able to bring them to her green pastures, lovingly care for them for the pleasure and goodness that is experienced by all who encounter these gentle lambs and sheep.

Granting opportunities for photography, visiting churches and allowing some 4H students to visit has created a ministry for showing the love of God to all creatures.

“Jesus sees us as His sheep and lambs. We need love and gentle guidance, He is our Shepherd, caring for our needs, showing us ways to give to others and to be used for a greater purpose.” said Billie Karen, “I just love the opportunity to love, and show support to other people and the sheep, I am truly blessed to have this chance and share these sheep and lambs with others. I have been so surprised that from children to the oldest of my friends have never had the opportunity to hold and love a lamb.

Many have said they were excited to hold a lamb - that’s the way Jesus sees all of us. As Isaiah 40:11 says: “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart...” Thank you Lord Jesus, the Lamb of God!”

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Natural light photographer • All events and photography needs Won people’s choice awards for best photographer and best photography company 2018 Monroe Co

Crystal Stargel www.gypsydreamsphotography.net • 423-572-0518 • 423-338-2449

FARM FR

H ES

AL L

PR OD UC E.

NAT K. URAL BEEF AND POR

QUALITY IS EVERYTHING 423-667-6981 | www.HydeFarms.net 7545 Highway 411 South, Greenback, TN

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It all started with a photo shoot in Charleston, Madelyn was hired to model and Chad was a wedding cinematographer. They met on a warm day in the low country, flirted throughout the photo shoot and thus was the beginning of a beautiful friendship that evolved into a timeless love story. As is true for all great love novels, the stars of the script are the bride and groom, however, for this story it gets much bigger with Joe and Kathleen Atkins of JOPHOTO. The co-stars were the reason the couple met, their first thought for photographing the wedding and after the engaged couple visited the Atkins home, it was the perfect setting for their love to be displayed. Chad and Madelyn were looking for wedding venues, Joe and Kathleen had just purchased a home on the lake with the intent of hosting small weddings and the stars aligned to make a magical moment.

Madelyn&Chad

The day of their wedding was an absolute dream.

It was warm and sunny with the most amazing orange and purple sunset. As Chad and Madelyn Cunningham were saying their vows, the sun dipped over the mountains and the sky began turning the most gorgeous pastel colors. A day of intentional honesty in expressing the couple with a reflection of all the people they love. “This day was more than we ever imagined, and we are so thankful to our family, friends, and everyone who was a part of the best days of our lives”, reflected Madelyn, “Our photographs were taken by the couple who introduced us, hosted at their beautiful home, we will never forget this day.”

Venue: Gallaher Bend Bridal Suite: Downtown 211 Catering: Bradford Catered Events Hair & Makeup: Whitney Evans Beauty Florist: Sassafras Flowers Wedding Gown: Kate McDonald DJ: Ogle Entertainment with Special Notes Entertainment Agency Rentals: All Occasion Party Rentals Photo Booth: Knox Photo Bus Invitation Designer: Logan Smith

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WEDDING VENUE

Knox Photo Bus—Stella, a 1969 VW Bus, Kathleen and Joe Adkins with best buddy, Murphy.

Built in 1982, Gallaher Bend is situated on seven acres of lake front property on Melton Hill Lake in Knoxville, Tennessee. The 5,600-square foot Tennessee flagstone home was built for entertaining, with a pool, dock, and multi-level decks with gorgeous sunset views. The back lawn overlooks the lake surrounded by the East Tennessee mountains. The front lawn is vast with rolling hills and fields where whitetail deer are often seen grazing.

Joe and Kathleen Atkins of JOPHOTO are Knoxville wedding photographers specializing in earthy and intimate weddings. From destination elopements to large celebrations. In 2017, they purchased Gallaher Bend and hosted the first wedding in November of the same year.

Knoxville Wedding Photographers Knoxville, TN | Kathleen@JoPhotoOnline.com | 865.919.7280 12

MONROE LIFE SPRING 2019

Written by CeCe Owens

Choosing the engagement ring is a significant event for any man, his nerves are centerstage awaiting the moment to shout... “She said Yes”. But those famous words have been forever replaced in popularity by “She said Yes to the Dress”. Of course, there is a moment of spotlight for the groom to be as he takes a knee to propose, but with a swiftness equal to a raging river it shifts to the choosing of a bridal gown.

Boy meets Girl, they go on a date, they decide to be friends. Sounds like an ending, however, it was the first chapter in the love story for Dawn Tunby and Matt Isbell. The first attempt to date ended with a friendship and as the story goes, Matt received a phone call from Dawn while he was on a date with another Bridals By Lori Dawn and family at and unexpected to his gentleman personality, he answered. They met for coffee and the rest is love story history. So, in the true fashion of a love story, they met again, fell in love and she said yes. But let’s get back to saying “yes to the dress”.

In the south, it is well known the scheduled appointment with a bridal shop is the

Dawn with Lori and Monte

start of the wedding to do list. The deeply rooted tradition and often humorous adventure that is the planning of a southern wedding is enjoyed worldwide every Saturday night on the Knoxville based television channel, TLC. The popular show, Say Yes to the Dress-Atlanta premiered in 2010 and is filmed at Bridals by Lori in Sandy Springs, Georgia.

On a hot July day the family & friends of Dawn, the bride to be, arrived at Bridals by Lori for the “Say Yes to the Dress” moment.

It is an overwhelming adventure to shop for a wedding dress, but doing it on the set of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress-Atlanta show doubles, triples the experience. Bridals by Lori combines southern hospitality with vast experience to provide each and every bride an exceptional memory. The 25,000 square foot, three story space is home to the largest full service bridal salon in the nation showcasing well-known designers and private label

merchandise.

For this bride, her wedding story includes the very ones who made that phrase popular. On the walkway stage of Bridals

By Lori in Sandy Springs, Georgia, she said yes to the dress. An elegant Allure Couture bridal gown, with custom veil and all the tears needed for award winning memories.

The combination of a magical love story and wedding planning granted a memorable moment as two became one.

Surrounded by the Dawn and CeCe at Br idals By Lori beauty of an outdoor venue, family and friends, and priceless memories what started with “Yes”, finaled with “I Do”. Watch “Say Yes to the Dress on TLC.

To see more about this incredible wedding visit www.monroelife.com.

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Brittany & Brett

It was love at first sight or at least it was love when they finally met! Brett Hawkins and Brittany Wheeler had lived less than a mile from each other for five years before meeting while working together briefly in the last few months of college. It may of taken time to actually be introduced, but they have made up for every minute of it since that moment.

Officially becoming a couple on March 8, 2018 while visiting Asheville, NC, getting engaged on December 26, 2018 atop Anakeesta in Gatlinburg and married on March 9, 2019 in the bride’s hometown and place they first met, Johnson City.

Brett followed the traditional rites of passage by asking his soon to be bride’s family blessing on the union. The engagement ring is perfected and centered by a diamond from the wedding ring of the bride’s grandmother. The wedding planning was seamless and fully designed by the bride, Brittany and her mother. A beautiful day with family and friends, each detail carefully aligned with their personalities, joining the families of Wes and Kim Wheeler with Tony and Elaine Hawkins. A day of love, union and beauty in an unmatched setting of elegance.

Taking place at The Gallery, the gorgeous chandeliers and large fireplace are focal points of this exceptional venue, along with hardwood floors, exposed brick and windows overlooking downtown Johnson City with spectacular sunset views. Candles and rose pedals filled the space, a special touch of the couple for the enjoyment of all and captured in timeless photography by JOPHOTO. Followed by a fun-filled honeymoon to Disney World and Clearwater, Florida, the couple now resides in Knoxville. Congratulations Brett and Brittany.

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New 2.7 Million Dollar Exhibit

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 museum remodel open now! The modern museum includes videos, dioramas, new additions to the Cherokee artifacts, paintings and interactive tools telling the story of this great man and the Cherokee people.

Sequoyah comes to life!

Sequoyah (1776 - 1843) Father, Soldier, Silversmith, Blacksmith, Statesman, and Creator of the Cherokee Syllabary.

Open Year Round Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: Noon - 5pm (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s) Visit our website and Facebook page to see our upcoming events.

(423) 884-6246 seqmus@tds.net www.sequoyahmuseum.org Highway 360, Post Office Box 69 Vonore, Tennessee 37885 Check us out on Facebook Owned and Operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, it is Tennessee’s only Tribally-operated historical attraction.

Never before or since, in the history of the world, has one man, not literate in any language, perfected a system for2019 reading and writing a language.

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Services Offered Include: • Budget Billing* • Electronic Bank Draft Payment • Low-Interest Heat Pump & Natural Gas Loans* • Water Heater Rebate Program*

• eScore Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program* • EnergyRight Solutions for Business + Industry • TVA Green Power Switch • Security Light Leasing • Good Neighbor Contribution Program

Biereley-Hale FUNERAL HOME A Family’s Love is Forever

Serving Monroe & surrounding counties since 1930 Funerals On-Site Crematory Homesteaders Life Co Shipping Services Pre-Arranging 423-253-2173 | 111 Depot Street, Tellico Plains 423-442-4404 | 4650 Hwy 411, Madisonville

Bread Moore Retailer!

Now a Benjamin Come see us for all your paint needs!

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TWRA LICENSE,

ETOWAH, VONORE & LOUDON

Vonore Butcher

*One per customer please. Includes Benjamin Moore Color Samples and Arborcoat samples.

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Vegetables FREE PINT FRIDAY Come in on Fridays and get your FREE pint of Benjamin Moore paint or stain, plus a coupon for $5 your next purchase of a gallon of Aura, Regal Select, or ArborCoat!

VILLAGE HOME CENTER 865-458-6336 200 Mialaquo Center Loudon, TN 37774

Bringing Nature to its Full Potential

Offering speciality wood products from contemporary to rustic styling including wide wood paneling, custom millwork and mantels. Please visit our 3000 square foot Lumber Compain ny Tellico showroom Plains to see how our wood and L LC products are being used by our customers and furniture makers. We also have an online store of one-of-a kind specialty wood items for sale.

Join the newsletter! Email DebMcfalls@outlook.com

Lumber Company

L LC

NEW STORE HOURS 877.857.8062 | 423.253.2323 Tuesday – Friday 9:00 – 5:00 911 Highway 165, Tellico Plains, TN 37385 Saturday 9:00 – 2:00 www.everhart-lumber.com

Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage

Artist of the Year Judy Lavoie APRIL 23-27, 2019

By CeCe Ownes

Award-winning Artist, Judy Lavoie thought 2018 was “her year” as an artist, but 2019 started out with being selected as the 2019 Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage Artist of the Year! The designation was made by the renowned Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in conjunction with the 69th annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. “This combines two of my greatest passions, painting and spring wildflowers, making it a wonderful personal milestone,” remarked Judy, “I am so elated!”

The honor stems from the selection of wildflower painting, “Bloodroot,” as the featured image for this year’s Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, which will take place April 23-27, 2019. The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is an annual five-day event in Great Smoky Mountains National Park offering professionally guided programs which explore the region’s rich wildflowers, wildlife, ecology, culture, and natural history through walks, motorcades, photographic tours, art classes, and indoor seminars.

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See “Bloodroot” at the Spring Wildflower Pilrimage and Wolpert Gallery at the Arrowmont School.

“Happy Harvey”

“I painted more in 2018 than in many previous years, experimenting with new methods and materials,” explained Judy, “ I am humbled to be the recipient of honors such as this.”

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN ASSOCIATION’S

69th ANNUAL WILDFLOWER PILGRIMAGE

Judy Lavoie’s “Bloodroot” painting appears on the event t-shirts, mugs, and other Pilgrimage promotional items. In addition, it is featured in a solo exhibition of Judy Lavoie paintings at the Wolpert Gallery at the Arrowmont School running through April 26, 2019, with a reception at the gallery during the Pilgrimage week, on Wednesday, April 24th, from 5 - 7pm.

Judy is grateful for the opportunity to indulge in her passion for painting. She loves capturing everyday subjects such as beloved pets, wildflowers, rural scenes, fishing boats, and landscapes, as well as depicting the exotic, such as frolicking dolphins and African wildlife. Judy paints in a highly realistic manner with a unique sensitivity to detail. Her work is exhibited in private collections throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Judy’s long list of awards attests to the quality of her work. She won "Best of Show" in the 2018 Tennessee Watercolor Society Exhibition and has been included in each of their juried shows since 2008. Judy is also a signature member and multiple award-winner of the Jacksonville (FL) Watercolor Society and the Florida Watercolor Society.

Judy's fine art is now being featured in an extensive solo exhibition during April, May and June at the Community Activity Center in Rarity Bay, Vonore TN. Hours are Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm, and the public is welcome.

Visit www.judy-lavoie-art.com to view the online gallery featuring original paintings and limited edition fine art prints along with her Art Blog, a must read for all.

APRIL 24 - 27, 2019 The Wildflower Pilgrimage, which dates back to 1951, offers over 150 programs including an array of instructional walks and guided hiking tours tailored to meet individual walking skill and ability, along with demonstrations and guest lecturers.

These tours showcase the abundant varieties of wildflowers, plants, ferns, mosses, trees and shrubs, as well as birds, reptiles and amphibians, all native to the Great Smoky Mountains.

www.wildflowerpilgrimage.org

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MeganBy CeCe Hurst Music Owens and songwriter Megan Hurst S inger calls herself “just a girl with a vision”, a perfect description of the daughter, wife, mother and now artist who uses her gift from God to positively impact others. Megan released her debut album entitled “Saved,” which features 10 recorded songs that came from her personal experiences and the shared experiences of others in their walk with the Lord.

One song on the album is “Daughter of the King,” a fun song for woman and girls.

Megan wrote the song after hearing a lesson on what it really means to be a daughter of the King of Kings. Sharing her personal experiences is the first part of the gift as she penned the lyrics placed on her heart. The second part of the gift appears as she gives voice to those lyrics and the final part of the gift is the inspiration it gives to others who hear the lyrics.

She is just a girl with a vision.

It’s a mighty big vision, but so is her gift!

“I can remember where each song was formed and how God whispered lyrics to my heart,” recalled Megan, “when we are happy in God, we are stronger.”

Megan is the daughter of Karen and Brian Mathews.

Enjoy Megan Hurst music by visiting @meganhurstmusic on Facebook.

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EAST TENNESSEE FOUNDATION’S

FIRST PHILANTHROPIC LEADERSHIP SERIES EVENT TACKLED THE SUBJECT OF OPIOID ADDICTION AND HOW CHARITABLE EFFORTS MAY HAVE AN IMPACT

I

n April 2018, East Tennessee Foundation (ETF) granted local research nonprofit, Three 3, the opportunity to convene a workshop for community leaders and subject matter experts connected to the opioid epidemic in East Tennessee. The goal of the workshop was triple-aimed. The workshop served to better understand contributing factors of the epidemic and to identify opportunities for further cross-sector collaborations at the community level. The second aim was to produce a conceptual diagram that displays a future community network operating from within and on the periphery of the existing opioid epidemic. Understanding the system of interactions at the community level provides a pathway to the third and long-term objective: to identify collaborative interventions that achieve meaningful

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outcomes for those both directly and indirectly affected by the opioid crisis and inform ETF fundholders.

With the grant, Three 3 was able to conduct a wide review of research articles, media reports and testimonials. Taken together with the inputs from thought leaders at the workshop, Three 3 produced a network diagram that maps various connections between agencies and key players within critical sectors within or adjacent to local communities.

As a result, on October 16, 2018, ETF hosted their first PHILANTHROPIC LEADERSHIP SERIES held exclusively for fundholders entitled Breaking the Cycle of Opioid Addiction. The main objectives of the briefing were to:

• Inform community leaders and philanthropists on the benefit of applying a ‘systems approach’ to better understand and solve complex social problems.

• Identify and characterize existing collaborative programs or efforts related to substance misuse prevention and recovery in the East Tennessee region.

• Explore new interventions (i.e., additional programs or solutions) to strengthen the system.

Dr. Mark McGrail, Director of Addiction Medicine at Cherokee Health Systems, kicked off the day with background on the progressive disease of addiction, which he defines as “a chronic disease with biological, psychological, social, and spiritual manifestations.” Dr. McGrail stated that the path to addiction often involves losing meaningful relationships with friends and family. This path tends to involve feelings of guilt, shame, and self-hatred which further contribute to the cycle of substance misuse. Because of the complex nature of the disease, a person who becomes addicted will likely require long-term ‘wrap-around’ care to reduce the obstacles leading to recovery – further underscoring the benefit of a network or systems approach for addressing the epidemic at the community level with external support. A panel moderated by Brandon Hollingsworth, News Director at WUOT, featured Dr. Robert Pack of East

“East Tennessee Foundation is taking an active role in the effort to tackle the opioid crisis in our community. My colleagues and I at Three 3 are honored to have had the opportunity to collaborate with ETF and others across the region that are addressing this devastating epidemic our communities are burdened with.”

Donna’s Old Town Cafe

-Bruce Tonn, President, Three 3 TN State University, Dr. Carole Myers of UT, Knoxville, and Charlene Hipsher and Phillip Martin representing a nonprofit in the Ninth Judicial District called Align9.

Panel members shared their challenges and successes spearheading community level collaborative efforts to counteract this epidemic. In addition to her teaching and research roles at UT, Dr. Myers produces Health Connections, a weekly podcast featuring health care topics often related to the opioid epidemic.

She emphasized that the health-care system accounts for roughly 20% of good health outcomes, but that economic policy, housing, transportation, and other community level factors influence the rest. Dr. Pack heads the ETSU Center for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment, which conducts research, trains health professionals, and provides evidence-based clinical care. The center also convenes stakeholders monthly to discuss current efforts and identify opportunities for collaboration. Hipsher and Martin with Align9 have “reached across the aisle” to align local resources to support an individual’s recovery efforts.

These resources include support, financial planning/life skills, law enforcement, and the justice system. Martin emphasized that all these resources are critical, but overcoming stigma and productively channeling volunteers’ passion remain top priorities. Dr. Meyers’ and Dr. Pack’s efforts focus on scalable and sustainable solutions, including capacity-building within communities. Dr. Pack closed the panel by noting that preventative measures, such as life skills and parenting

training, produce positive outcomes as well. He pointed to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Communities That Care model, a risk and protective factor approach to substance misuse prevention, as a resource.

Lastly, the attendees participated in a facilitated discussion to identify opportunities to support community level efforts related to prevention and recovery.

Participants identified increased understanding and destigmatization of addiction as critical factors, as both upstream (prevention) and downstream (recovery) efforts. Creating a hub and spoke system of referrals that includes law enforcement (e.g. drug courts) and improved wraparound services were also priorities.

From these discussions, participants generated potential next steps that ETF could take in fostering solutions to the opioid epidemic in East Tennessee.

We Cater For All Occasions.

Downtown Madisonville across from courthouse

Sun-Wed 7am-3pm

Thurs-Sat 7am-8pm

100 COLLEGE STREET, MADISONVILLE, TENNESSEE

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On A Hallowed Hill In Tennessee Story and Photos by Lon Shoopman

Many people across Tennessee, and beyond, recognize the first line of the University of Tennessee Alma Mater.

The Hill, as it is commonly known, is enshrined in the hearts and memories of thousands of Tennesseans. Few people, however, are familiar with the rich history surrounding this iconic landmark. Ten amazing facts about, The Hill, should enrich your understanding of the Hallowed Hill, and the University of Tennessee.

1. Thank Thomas Jefferson for The Hill Present day Knoxville began as a Fort, established by James White in 1786. When President George Washington appointed William Blount, Governor of the Southwest Territory, Blount came to White’s Fort and named it the Territorial Capital. White sold much of the land he owned and from it, Knoxville was formed with 64 lots.

About the same time, Samuel Carrick, a young Presbyterian minister came to the fledgling settlement, intent on establishing a college and a Presbyterian church. The college came first. It was established in 1794 and was named Blount College, in honor of Governor William Blount. The college was located at the corner of Clinch and Gay,

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where The Tennessee Theater now stands. It was the twenty fourth permanent institution of higher education in the United States and the first that was not church related.

From the outset, Blount College teetered on insolvency. It attracted few students and only conferred one degree in a 13 year period.

In 1807 the name was changed to East Tennessee College, thinking that might help attract more students. It did not.

Jefferson opposed the idea but offered advice which would shape the future of the institution. He counseled the trustees to purchase land outside the city, which would provide sufficient space to erect several buildings around a grassy square, and thus form an academic village. The trustees could not focus on land. They were concerned with survival. The lack of finances forced the closing of the college for the ensuing 11 years.

August 17, 1809, proved to be a fateful day.

Samuel Carrick, the President of the school, and it’s only instructor, suddenly died. The Trustees developed a lottery scheme to keep the school open. They wrote to Thomas Jefferson seeking his support for their lottery.

2. Barbara Hill In 1820, East Tennessee College reopened.

Remembering Jefferson’s advice, plans were made to relocate outside the city limits. In 1826 the trustees purchased “Barbara Hill,” for the new campus. The

"Barbara Hill" was named in honor of the daughter of Governor William Blount. The 40 acre parcel of land was purchased for $600. It was located between the river and the Western Road. The views from atop The Hill were breathtaking in every direction.

The site soon began to be referred to by locals as “College Hill.” In 1828, the first building was erected. When construction began, the workers dug into a cemetery that no one remembered existing on The Hill.

The first structure was built of stone and brick, with an observatory and belfry. The ten room building would become known as Old College. It would be the landmark by which the university would be identified for the next 91 years.

3. Fort Byington In 1861 cannons thundered at Fort Sumter, South Carolina, marking the beginning of the Civil War. Within six months, the Confederate army took possession of Knoxville and The Hill. In time the Confederate forces abandoned Knoxville to be a part of a major battle shaping up around Chattanooga. When the Confederates left, Major General Ambrose Burnside led Union forces into the city. He immediately began

to build fortresses all around Knoxville.

The Hill was designated as Fort Byington.

Having won a major victory at Chattanooga, the Confederate army turned its attention back to Knoxville. General James Longstreet laid siege to the city, November 23, 1863 and lobbed cannon fire at Fort Byington and other Union fortifications. Six days later he launched an ill-fated infantry attack on Fort Sanders. The Union forces had dug deep trenches around Fort Sanders. The Confederates failed to realize how deep the trenches were. Once in, they could not get out. The Battle of Knoxville lasted 20 minutes. Eight hundred and thirteen Confederate soldiers lay dead in the trenches. The Union army lost only thirteen men. Longstreet withdrew to join Lee’s Army in Virginia. Knoxville remained firmly in Union hands. In time, the war ended.

4. 100 Elm Trees The Civil War left The Hill in shambles.

Every tree on the campus had been cut for firewood. Deep trenches had been carved into The Hill. Longstreet’s cannons had taken their toll. Buildings had been heavily damaged. The Hill was left desolate and all but destroyed.

When the war began, Thomas Humes was rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Knoxville. He was a staunch Union supporter. When the war concluded Humes was named President of East Tennessee University, and given the daunting task of rebuilding the University and its campus. Because he was a known Union supporter, he was looked on with favor

when he requested government funds to repair the damage left in the wake of the war. Subsequently, a United State Senate committee noted that East Tennessee University was deserving of funds to repair the campus since it was the “only education institution of known loyalty in any of the seceding States.” A bill was passed providing $18,500 to help repair the war damage.

At the same time, Yale University donated 100 elm trees to the University to be planted on The Hill as part of the reconstruction.

Those trees remained until the 1950’s when they were destroyed by Dutch elm disease.

5. Orange and White With war now passed, the fortunes of East Tennessee University turned. In 1879 the institution was designated as The University of Tennessee. Ten years later, students directed their attention to the task of selecting school colors. In those days, UT was a military school. Male students wore uniforms that were blue and white. At the same time, the baseball team was clad in red and black. Charles Moore, president of the Athletic Association, looked at The Hill and saw daisies growing profusely. He reasoned that the school colors should be derived from The Hill and the flowers that grew there. Moore decided that for the upcoming field day, he would dress in orange and white, the color of the daisies on The Hill. Soon, more and more students wore orange and white to athletic events. A vote was taken in 1892 to officially select school colors for the University of Tennessee.

The students chose orange and white by a narrow margin.

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6. Ayres Hall In 1904, Dr. Brown Ayres became President of the University of Tennessee. He assumed leadership of an institution that was deeply in debt. The buildings were antiquated and overcrowded. Heretofore State funding had been virtually non-existent. It was vital that change, if the University was to thrive. Around 1917 he approached the State Legislature with the idea of erecting a great academic hall on The Hill.

Uncharacteristically, the State appropriated the needed funds. In May, 1918 a Chicago firm of architects were employed to design the building. When it was announced that Old College would need to be demolished for construction to proceed on the new structure, an uproar ensued. The trustees were bombarded with angry letters from alumni. Finally, the trustees agreed to attempt to move Old College if the Alumni Association would raise the needed $15,000.

In truth the 91`year old, 10 room building was no longer needed. Neither did it possess any architectural beauty. Only $2,000 of the $15,000 needed to move the building was contributed and Old College was taken down. Blanche Bingham, a sophomore from Bell Buckle, Tennessee laid the first brick in the new structure, November 26, 1919. The building was completed, and dedicated June 6, 1921. The new academic hall cost $690,500 which is a little over eight million dollars in today’s currency. Dr. Brown Ayers, who had conceived the new building and guided it into being died before the building was completed. President Harcourt Morgan, who succeeded Ayres as President, recommended the building be named to honor Ayres. The

Board of Trustees agreed and the new building which crowned The Hill became Ayres Hall.

7. Ayres or Ayers?

One interesting bit of trivia related to The Hill surrounds the plaque attached to the Cumberland Street entrance. Chicago Ornamental Iron Works was commissioned to design a plaque for the new building.

It was to contain a raised likeness of Old College and of Dr. Ayers. Also listed were several names connected to the construction of the new edifice. Several changes were made in the original design submitted by the Chicago firm, but at last President Morgan approved the final design.

However, when the plaque was delivered, Dr. Brown Ayres name was spelled “Ayers.”

It is unknown why the University did not insist the error be corrected, but the plaque was attached to the building entrance and has remained there for 98 years. The name of the man in whose honor the building was named is misspelled.

8. Play Ball While the preservation efforts for Old College were in full swing, a competing fund raising effort began. Several influential people in Knoxville felt the University needed an athletic field. Col. W.S. Shields was President of Knoxville’s City Bank. As well, he was a member of the University Board of Trustees and also a member of the Building Committee for Ayres Hall. While the Alumni Association was trying to raise funds to preserve Old College, Shields led in a campaign to create an athletic field. The goal for the athletic field was $35,000. The money was raised in one week. Shields contributed $23,000. When Old College was demolished, 15,000 cubic yards of dirt was graded from the top of The Hill to make way for Ayres Hall.

This dirt was moved to the proposed site of the new athletic field. In April, 1921, faculty, staff, and students spread the dirt from atop The Hill to create Shields-Watkins field.

The field was named to honor the principle benefactor and his wife. The field is now surrounded by Neyland Stadium, the fifth largest college stadium in the Nation.

9. The Checkerboard Robert Neyland became Tennessee’s football coach in 1926. Shields-Watkins field was 5 years old. Bleachers had been installed on the west side of the field that could seat 3,200.

Neyland immediately noticed something.

There is a checkerboard design in the tower of Ayres Hall. In those days, the tower was clearly visible from the football field. When his team had the ball, headed toward the north end zone, Neyland would encourage them to “Run to the checkerboard!” He also urged

them to “Charge the checkerboard!” Doug Dickey became the coach of the Volunteer team in 1964 and decided that the design in Ayres Hall would become the design in the Neyland Stadium end zones. Now, when the team is headed in either direction, they can, “Run to the checkerboard!” The checkerboard design is also visible at the end lines of the basketball court in Thompson Bowling Arena. The design has also been incorporated into the exterior of the new Student Union Building.

10. The Clocks Old College was demolished after 91 years of use. In 2008, Ayers Hall had been in use for 87 years. No thought was given to its removal, but it was in desperate need to repair and updating. In that year a twenty-three million dollar renovation project began. It was completed in 2011.

The renovation maintained the building’s grand architectural design and added one noticeable feature to the exterior of the building. The original design envisioned

clocks in the tower of Ayres Hall. They were not installed due to a lack of funds. Now, almost one hundred years later, the clocks are in place. Their addition enhances the beauty of Ayers Hall.

It is hoped this brief glimpse into the always fascinating history of the University of Tennessee, will deepen your appreciation for the University, and the Hallowed Hill on which it stands where “The stately walls of Old U.T. rise glorious to the sight.”

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Wags, Whiskers & Wine Saturday, May 11th 5:30 - 9:00 Tellico Village Yacht Club Wine Tasting, Appetizers, Silent Auction, Music Tickets $75 • Smart Casual Tickets available at MCFA Thrift Store, United Community Bank, Tellico Village and Volunteer Federal Bank, Vonore.

Through proceeds of fundraising events, proceeds from the MCFA Thrift Store and generous donations Monroe County Friends of Animals funds almost 40 percent of the operating costs of the Monroe County Animal Shelter.

To help us continue our work please visit our website: www.monroecountyfriendsofanimals.org and click the donate button.

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Shop the MCFA Thrift Store at 3949 Highway 411, Madisonville, TN. Hours: Wed-Sat, 10-4.

And remember, if you are looking for a Cat or Dog to add to your household start your search as the Monroe County Animal Shelter at 170 Kefauver Lane, Madisonville, TN 37354. Hours: Tues - Fri 11am to 4:30pm; Sat 11am to 2pm. Closed Sun / Mon.

Smoky Mountain Lights

By Cece Owens

he Lampyridae are a family of insects in the beetle order Coleoptera. They are winged soft-bodied beetles, commonly called fireflies or lightning bugs for their conspicuous use of bioluminescence during twilight to attract mates or prey.

Did you know that Tennessee is one of the only places in the world that is home to a rare type of firefly? They light up together, completely in sync with each other.

Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are one of at least 19 species of fireflies that live in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

They are the only species in America whose individuals can synchronize their flashing light patterns. Once fireflies reach the age for which they can fly around and light up, they only live for about 21 days. That means the phenomenon that happens in Tennessee is only viewable for about three weeks per year.

The largest population of these synchronous fireflies in the Western Hemisphere is right here, close to home at Elkmont Campground. Every year, in late May and early June, the Elkmont fireflies (sometimes also referenced to as Sugarlands Visitor Center fireflies) light up the sky. Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the

largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.

recent years that the famous fireflies are showing up in surrounding locations, so as the time approaches stay in touch with your local media outlets or the internet to learn about other locations.

For the last few years the National Park Service has used a lottery system to allow only 1,800 cars to park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center during the 8-day event (225 per day). The lottery works like this: You apply on their page during the three-day application period, choosing two possible dates that you would like to attend. About a week later you will receive notice whether your application was accepted or not. If you were accepted you will pay a $20 reservation fee. On the day you are scheduled for, you will show your ID and your parking pass at the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Then you will board a trolley for Elkmont Campground.

Most of us have memories of running around outside on summer nights to watch and catch the fireflies lighting up around us. The synchronous fireflies event is a memory of a lifetime. If you want to experienced it make plans this year to light up your life.

If you are not fortunate enough to score parking passes for the main event at Elkmont, don’t be discouraged. Consider visiting within three days either side of the event when passes are not required. The synchronous fireflies can also be found at the backend of Cades Cove (near the Abrams Falls trailhead) or at Cataloochee Valley. It also appears in

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Artistically Talented MONROE COUNTY

By CeCe Owens

Sweetwater High School’s own Mr. Mikos was the winner of the Monroe County’s 200 Year Celebration Logo Contest. Matthew Mikos is the Art Instructor at the high school and is also an illustrator for many children’s books. His logo will be used in various events during Monroe County’s Bicentennial Celebration. Thirty-four logos were submitted by students and adults from across the County with the winner decided by vote.

Dallas Kirkland had the runner-up selection that will be used on the commemorative coin. She is the daughter of Richard and Kelly Kirkland of Madisonville, and is a graduate of Sequoyah High and Savannah College of Art and Design.

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salute during the month-long event. On May 25, Celebrate Memphis will honor the past and celebrate the future with the music, food and art that make this part of Tennessee unique.

Each May Memphis brings the world to Memphis to experience one of the largest festivals in North America. They have something for everyone - from lectures and exhibits, to movie screenings and our core events. Attendees come from all 50 states and several foreign countries during the month of May to our city, one that’s rich in history and experience. This year the focus of the 2019 Memphis in May International Festival will be Memphis and Shelby County. This s a break from the tradition of honoring international countries. This year they celebrate Memphis’ bicentennial and the start of a new century for the city and county.

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Memphis in May is the official festival of the City of Memphis, the recipient of 206 prestigious Pinnacle Awards from the International Festival and Events Association, and has been named to Travel +Leisure’s International List of Festivals Worth Traveling For. The Beale Street Music Festival was named one of the World’s Top Festivals

by Fest300.

Memphis in May hosts the city’s largest events like the Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.

Celebrate Memphis has been added to the Festival lineup, promising to be spectacular

Memphis in May salutes Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee, celebrating 200 years and a new century of soul! wwwmemphisinmay.org

100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE

ARCADE RESTAURANT

This is Memphis!

World Champion Barbecue Contest

901Fest Airshow. Photo by Lawrence Hsia

Great American River Run. Photo by Ziggy Mack

Situated on the corner of South Main Street and G.E. Patterson is The Arcade Restaurant, a legend since 1919. Speros Zepatos immigrated from Greece to Memphis, founding the restaurant in a small, one story, wood framed building and cooking on pot belly stoves. The 1920’s style architecture seen today was the result of Speros tearing down that wood frame in 1925 and building The Arcade Building, complete with retail stores.

It was the 2nd generation of Zepatos that took the Arcade to the next level in the 1950’s, adapting the fifties style experienced by today’s patrons. With Memphis coming alive in the mid 1960’s, the location became the busiest intersection in the city, so much that policeman were needed 24 hours a day to direct traffic. That excitement changed as businesses left the downtown following the decline of railroad transportation and the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., buildings were boarded up as residents headed to the outlining areas of the Memphis. The quiet did not last too long with the arrival of the most famous Memphis resident, ELVIS, who fell in love with The Arcade Restaurant, even was a regular patron for breakfast and lunch. Today, you can indulge yourself by sitting in the honorary “Elvis booth” as you fill the tummy with his favorite sandwich, a peanut butter and banana masterpiece. The King of Rock and Roll boosted the business turning The Arcade into a tourist destination.

Throughout the decades, The Arcade Restaurant survived it all, becoming a historical landmark. It’s a trip back in time, something that attracted Hollywood movie studios as scenes from Mystery Train, Great Balls of Fire, The Client, The Firm, Walk the Line and too many others to name, were filmed in the restaurant.

The family has given great care to preserve the old-time charm while presenting favorable menu options from the classic breakfast to “The Memphis Thang”, a smoked turkey sandwich complimented by tasty creole mustard to “Memphis Fire”, a homemade pizza with spicy marinara.

Every menu item, every bite delights and the atmosphere makes everything taste better.

There is a lot of history between the walls, stories from every booth, amazing food from the kitchen and traditions continue today by the 3rd generation of Zepatos. Right outside the front door is the national historic marker which honors the family who committed to the City of Memphis, continuing to positively impact the South Main Historic District. On the Bicentennial of Memphis is only fitting to wish Happy 100th Birthday to The Arcade Restaurant, the oldest restaurant and famous Memphis landmark.

The Arcade Restaurant is located at 540 S. Main Street in Memphis, Tennessee.

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By CeCe Owens Photos from the National Civil Rights Museum

History is often set aside as not applicable today, an issue that has plagued the Civil Rights Movement since inception. The National Civil Rights Museum offers visitors a fully immersed experience through multi-sensory and multimedia innovations combined with historical artifacts. The interactive approach allows all aspects of the historical and current Civil Rights Movement to be interpreted and applied to current times.

Located in Memphis, The National Civil Rights Museum is one of the nation’s premier heritage and cultural museums.

With a mission to share the lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement, the museum continues to shape equality and freedom globally.

Established in 1991, the museum is located at the former Lorraine Motel. Purchased

by Walter Bailey in 1945 and renamed after his wife Loree, the two-story concrete block motel structure was one of only a few hotels for which African-American travelers could enjoy accommodations during the segregated eras. Guests enjoyed its upscale atmosphere, home-cooked meals, affordable prices and clean environment. Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding were among the many who stayed at the Lorraine during the 1950s and 1960s.

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The view at dusk of the balcony at Room 306 where Dr. King was slain. A wreath marks where he last stood.

King’s last hours: Room 306 and 307

Join the Movement interactive table. For Jobs and Freedom: The March on Washington. On August 28, 1963, in the nation’s capital, 250,000 people from many races, religions, and backgrounds marched together in orderly protest.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stayed at the Lorraine Motel many times, especially during the Memphis sanitation workers strike of 1968.

A strike that grew into an important event of the Civil Rights Movement, attracting the attention of the NAACP, the national news media, and Martin Luther King Jr. He first visited the Memphis strike on March 18th, speaking to an audience of thousands at the Mason Temple. On April 3rd, King returned to Memphis and the Mason Temple delivering the “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” address.

In a prophetic finale to his speech, King revealed that he was not afraid to die: “Like anybody, I would like to live a long life— longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will...

And so I’m happy tonight; I’m not worried about anything; I’m not fearing any man.

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord ” On Thursday, April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stepped out onto the balcony of his Lorraine Motel room #306 to attend dinner at a local minister’s home. At 6:01 p.m., he was struck in the face by a single .30-06 bullet fired from a Remington Model 760 rifle. The 39 year old civil rights champion and nobel peace laureate was forever silenced. On April 8th, King’s widow, Coretta Scott King, and the couple’s four small children led a crowd estimated at forty thousand in a silent march through

the streets of Memphis to honor the fallen leader and support the cause of the city’s sanitation workers.

The National Civil Rights Museum is a complex of museums and historic buildings, most of which are directly associated with the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. On October 21, 2016, the museum was honored by becoming a Smithsonian Affiliate museum.

The National Civil Rights Museum and Lorraine Hotel is a place of history and symbolism for all. Step aboard a vintage bus and hear the Rosa Parks altercation in Montgomery, Alabama or crouch into the hull of a 1700s slave ship to imagine the horrid conditions they endured. The museum collection offers 260 artifacts, more than 40 new films, oral histories, interactive media and external listening posts that guide visitors through five centuries of history. It may be built with bricks and mortar, but the message delivered is enough to change the world, one visitor at a time.

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Tens of thousands of people embarked on the museum campus during the MLK50 Day of Remembrance on April 4, 2018, the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s death.

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Looking Back Memphis

PLACE OF GOOD ABODE THE HISTORY OF MEMPHIS

By CeCe Ownes

Native Americans were drawn to the bluffs overlooking the river of what is known as Memphis, building their settlements on the Fourth Chickasaw Bluff which protected them from flooding by the mighty river that also provided easy transportation.

It was Hernando DeSoto that arrived in 1541 with his army to explore the lower half of the river, setting up camp near the site of Memphis, claiming the land for Spain. That land would change ownership many times over the next 200 years, claimed by France, England and Spain, before the United States of America got involved.

Fourth Chickasaw Bluff at Memphis

Memphis Belle, the first B-17 bomber.

In 1796, Tennessee became the 16th state admitted to the Union, and the Chickasaw Indians sold the land to the U.S. government more than 20 years later. It was during that time that future president Andrew Jackson, John Overton and James Winchester decided to join the government to incorporate the town. They further named the place Memphis, a “place of good abode.”

Memphis became the largest inland cotton market in the world, but the city’s location and its reliance on slave labor would prove to be a volatile mix in the near future.

The Battle of Memphis, a 90-minute fight resulted in the Confederate flag flying over the city being replaced with a United States flag. The Union Army would establish the area as a hospital post which proved beneficial, helping the city rebound after the war.

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First Battle of Memphis

Memphis Jefferson Street

Robert Church Sr. (left) a entrepreneur, businessman and landowner

Memphis 1906. "A Mississippi River landing." The sidewheeler Belle of the Bends taking on cargo alongside the sternwheeler Belle of Calhoun.

Memphis Cotton Boat.

During the yellow fever epidemic of 1873 it all changed as people passed in catastrophic numbers. The epidemic returned years later to nearly wipe out the entire population.

Those who were healthy enough to travel, fled the city. Memphis was bankrupt and forced to surrender its charter. Around 1879 when Memphis was just a state taxing district, a wealthy businessman named Robert

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Memphis cotton exchange.

Church, Sr. began buying up land, primarily on Beale Street. He built Church Park which is still named in his honor on Beale Street.

Time passed and the city welcomed the 20th Century, hoping to leave the negatives of previous century behind. It had been plagued with disease, crime and poverty. Anything you needed that might be illegal continued to

First Piggly Wiggly, 1916 Memphis, TN.

be available, mostly on Beale Street. But it was also the home to many music clubs that enticed cotton field workers to enjoy good times on the weekends. It would be their “chantings” that would become “blues,” a priceless American musical art form.

Another interesting invention that came out of Memphis was the modern supermarket.

Sun Records, Memphis TN

1950 Beale Street Memphis TN

Elvis Presley’s “That’s Alright Mama” first released in Memphis.

Local businessman Clarence Saunders opened the first self service grocery store, Piggly Wiggly.

It was a huge success, with stores opening across the county, making him a millionaire. He spent the money by building a 22-room, pink marble mansion which along with his company and money would be forfeited when he lost it all. The City of Memphis is the current owner.

The mansion dubbed the “Pink Palace” is a museum, planetarium and theater.

Memphis Belle’s victories appeared regularly.

As one of the first airplanes to complete its overseas missions and the star of a War Department documentary, the Memphis Belle and its crew were selected for a stateside tour.

The second stop, after Washington, D.C., was Memphis, where the young couple would be reunited. The love story ended shortly after the war, but not the love for the Memphis Belle. It remains on display today in Memphis.

Then like the bang of the yellow fever, the Depression surged into town. Just like the rest of the country there was no avoiding the disastrous effects of the time. The cotton market and industrious companies of the city would bring relief as America entered World War II. The gift was appreciated and reciprocated as Memphis would inspire the most famous aircraft of the war- Memphis Belle, the first B-17 bomber.

Fame would be completely redefined in the 1950s. A young man from the Memphis housing projects starting hanging out on Beale Street, standing in the doorways of the clubs to listen and learn, and taking those lessons and talent to Sam Phillips’ Sun Studio, located a few miles east of Beale Street, to record “That’s All Right Mama”. It was history in the making and the start of what would bring international attention to Memphis, Tennessee. Ladies and Gentleman, Elvis Presley entered the building. The King of Rock and Roll would pass in 1977 at his Whitehaven neighborhood home, Graceland. In 1982, the grounds and home were opened to visitors.

Graceland is one of the most popular tourist

In the last months of 1942, American morale needed a boost and the editor of a Memphis paper learned that one of the airplanes doing battle in Europe was named for a local woman, Margaret Polk, by her pilot sweetheart, Robert Morgan. From then on news about the

destinations in the world, welcoming more that 600,000 visitors each year.

Beale Street surged as a tourist destination in the 1990s assisted greatly by the international festival, Memphis in May, a month long celebration that brings countless visitors to enjoy the worldfamous Beale Street Music Festival, World Championship Barbeque Contest and a host of events honoring an international location. This year, in celebration of the Bicentennial, Memphis is honoring all things Memphis.

The addition of professional sporting franchises gained more attention for the city. In 2000, the Memphis Redbirds, an affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball, and the Memphis Grizzlies an NBA team, came to town.

It’s a city with an incredible past, a story that is timeless and richly impacted American History.

From the discovery by early Native Americans followed by an influx of European explorers, from the Civil War to the centerstage of Civil Rights, from historical music flowing from Beale Street to innovation in medicine, Memphis is A Place of Good Abode.

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Harrah’s Hope Lodge

By CeCe Ownes

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge program provides lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers. It’s a nurturing community that helps patients access the care they need in a homelike environment. Guest share meals, join in evening activities or relax in their own private room.

Established in 1970, the Charleston, SC Hope Lodge was the first facility in the country for cancer patients and caregivers. The concept came from Margot Freudenberg, a actively involved volunteer until she was 105, the longest-serving American Cancer Society volunteer.

Sitting room at Harrah’s Hope Lodge

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She saw a similar facility while traveling through Australia and New Zealand with President Eisenhower’s People to People Ambassador Program. Today, Hope Lodge are available throughout the United States and Puerto Rico serving patients and caregivers from all over the world.

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Memphis, which opened in 2010, offers lodging centrally located to area treatment centers. The University of Tennessee Health Science Center donated the land for the three-story facility. Aptly named Harrah’s Hope Lodge as the Caesars Foundation, owners of Harrah’s Entertainment, gifted $2,000,000 as part of their pre-opening capital campaign. Harrah’s founding partnership has continued with annual gifts and sparked a powerful connection with the local Tunica casino employees volunteering more than 500 hours annually.

When choosing where to receive cancer treatment, a patient usually decides to stay close to home, however, that is not always possible. Specialized treatment can be far from home and in the situations where

travel is necessary, many encounter the inability to afford those expenses. It can be a barrier for receiving the best possible care in their cancer fight, Memphis is home to many cancer specialist not found anywhere else in Tennessee. Prior to the opening in 2010, patients reported avoiding treatment, traveling extensive miles back and forth from home or sleeping in cars while parked at the treatment centers. Those barriers are broken down by the Harrah’s Hope Lodge with a staff committed to providing a nurturing environment for guests 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The first floor of Harrah’s Hope Lodge features communal dining, kitchens, library and recreational areas, while the second and third floors have a total of 40 suites for cancer patients and a guest/caregiver.

Located at 718 Union Ave. directly east of Sun Studio providing about 70 patients with a comfortable, welcoming home-away-fromhome. But most importantly, Harrah’s Hope Lodge provides camaraderie. Friendships are formed as patients and caregivers take comfort in the knowledge that they’re not alone in their fight against cancer.

Dr. Matthew Wilson Hamilton Eye Institute

By CeCe Ownes

In July 2007, a UT Hamilton Eye Institute patient brought the project of raising funds for an American Cancer Society Harrah’s Hope Lodge to the attention of Matthew Wilson, MD, FACS, UTHSC faculty and St. Jude Chair a of Pediatric Oncology. The project had already received major gifts from Harrah’s Entertainment, the UT Health Science Center, but more funds were still needed.

Harrah’s Hope Lodge features communal dining, kitchens and volunteers prepared meals which includes a monthly prepared treat by the Harrah's Casino Chefs.

Partnering with Terrapin Racing Triathlon Team in Memphis, Dr. Wilson raised funds and increased awareness about the project through the Janus Charity Challenge external link as part of the 2008 Ironman Lake Placid event. Dr. Wilson also canvassed the community, securing additional gifts of funding. Subsequently, Dr. Wilson was awarded the ACHHE Distinguished Service Award, and the fitness room at the Hope Lodge facility was named for Terrapin Racing in honor of Dr. Wilson.

Dr. Matthew Wilson, MD, is an Ophthalmology specialist in Memphis, Tennessee. With an unmatched passion for teaching the next generation of physicians and healing all ages, Dr. Wilson is a profile in the best of medicine. Daily it is the care of his patients, guidance for students & fellows, and perseverance in research that make him more than just a doctor, he is a miracle-worker.

Comfortable accommodations a Harrah’s Hope Lodge.

The UT Hamilton Eye Institute (UTHEI) is the department of ophthalmology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee. It serves several key purposes, including clinical care, education, research, and international outreach. It also influences public policy related to eye care.

Support from volunteers and local organizations is critical to the American Cancer Society’s mission of providing free lodging to cancer patients andtheir caregivers.

Visit www.cancer.org to learn more about how to get involved or donate.

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In 2011, Carnival Memphis grants Highest Honor to Ralph Hamilton, MD.

Hamilton Eye Center

M

edical discoveries are not only made in laboratories; they also occur during the care of patients where ideas become treatments that lead to future breakthroughs. This is research made available by an atmosphere of scientists and physicians working together. The vision for a comprehensive facility where researchers, clinicians, students, nurses, and technicians work together, sharing knowledge, studying the eye and caring for patients was the innovative dream of Ralph Hamilton, MD. Dr. Hamilton began his 70-year career in ophthalmology as a 15-year-old, assisting his father by shining a flashlight into the eyes of his cataract surgery patients. He was only 16 when he graduated from high school and 23 when he earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis (UTHSC). When he returned to UTHSC in 1959, Dr. Hamilton already carried the dream of establishing an eye institute in Memphis. He continued

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to pursue the goal throughout his career, becoming a full clinical professor in 1979 and running a busy practice.

The Hamilton Eye Institute, a 60,000-squarefoot facility opened in 2005, and current faculty and staff continue the threefold mission of providing advanced treatments

for patient care, fostering an interplay of ideas among a community of scholars in a fertile environment for discovery, and transferring skills and knowledge to the next generation of physicians and researchers through a world-class ophthalmic medical education program. With many of the most advanced surgical training technologies available, the Hamilton Eye Institute’s educational facilities are among the finest available.

Located in Midtown Memphis, the Hamilton Eye Institute provides clinical and surgical Ophthalmology services.

Dr. Ralph Hamilton passed away in 2017 leaving a formidable legacy of continued discipline in providing the best care through constant collaboration and research. As one of the Mid-South’s premier vision facilities, the Hamilton Eye Institute provides facilities of leading advancement in care and research of eye diseases and conditions.

Whether you’re considering assisted living or memory care for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to schedule your personal tour today.

2317 US 411 South, Maryville, TN 37801 865-238-53338 | Cloverhillseniorliving.com

Southern Food served with a friendly smile! open daily at 6 am Full menu available.

SOUPS

Homed Cooked Buffet

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MEATS

Breakfast served all day.

VEGETABLES

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Family Restaurant. family priced.

I-75 & Oakland Road (Exit 62), Sweetwater, TN

phone 423.337.5825

Take-Out 423.337.0948

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Boys & Girls Clubs A Sound Community Investment

D

id you know that for every hour our children spend in school, they spend two hours out of school? The challenge is how to keep them occupied, protected, and safe during these hours out of school. The way our kids spend those hours after school, and in particular the summer time hours, have a significant impact upon their lives.

Kids with no direction often find themselves in trouble.

Those who have a safe place to spend their time, mentored by caring adult members, and participate in programs that enrich their lives, have a better opportunity for success than kids who are left alone. The after-school and summer programs have a very positive impact on their lives. That’s one of the reasons why Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ocoee Region - Monroe Area Units are a good investment for our community.

A study, commissioned by Boys & Girls Clubs of America, revealed that Clubs provide nearly $10 in benefits to the community for every dollar invested. The study, conducted by the Institute for Social Research and the School of Public Health at the University of Michigan, found that the biggest benefit

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derived from investment in our Clubs is the improved grades and reduced alcohol use of those attending Boys & Girls Clubs.

Affordable child care for after-school and summer brings a peace of mind to parents as well. Parents know their children are not only learning, but developing socially, and above all are in a safe place. This in turn reduces the number of child-care related absences from work, which studies have shown cost employers over $3 billion annually. Also, assurance that their children are well cared for in a Boys & Girls Club environment has shown to increase employee productivity by 49 percent.

With 28 percent of the County population single-parent households, it is extremely important for our community to offer low cost after-school and summer program care.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ocoee Region Monroe Area Units after-school and summer program fees have undergone restructuring to make it more affordable to allow your children to attend one of our Club locations.

For 23 years Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ocoee Region - Monroe Area Units have been promoting healthy lifestyles for those who attend our programs. The kids are involved

in physical activities, nutrition education, computer-based learning programs to promote academic excellence, and summer reading programs. It is proven that there is less brain “drain” for students who participate in summer learning programs, giving them a better chance at educational success when they return to the classroom after summer.

Studies have shown where kids who do not participate in summer programs may need up to six weeks to re-learn old material. Our kids are served a breakfast, lunch, and snack daily during the summer program. During

the after-school programs, kids receive supper and snack, homework assistance and special tutoring on subjects where they may need additional help.

Call us today at (423) 442-6770 to learn how you or your firm can help invest in making Monroe County a better place for our kids.

Or call for more information on how to enroll your children in our programs.

Wingin’ It Andrew Curtis:The only plan he had was to have fun!

Pulpit Rock, Norway

A

ndrew Curtis is the human definition of spontaneous and lived it out loud when he took off on an impromptu exploration of Europe. Planning a trip abroad takes months of planning, reservations, contacts and scheduling. Andrew purchased a ticket, his single and collective action done prior to boarding a plane bound for Europe.

There was a timetable of three months for exploration and a rough idea of a route as, he set three days per destination: Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Prague, Austria, Portugal, Italy, Switzerland, Hungary, France, the Czech Republic, Monaco and Iceland.

The timetable changed immediately. “I spent two weeks in Greece, which is one of my

favorite countries. I love Athens...this time I spent time in the Greek Islands.” Curtis was very fond of the Greek Islands. “I went to the island of Delos. It’s ruins of a pretty advanced society. The water is clear, the beaches are really nice and they’re some of the friendliest people I’ve met on my travels.”

As it neared the close of his time in Europe, the vast travels brought up a major issue, as he couldn’t afford the increased cost of $2,500 for a return trip home. It is a significant issue that pre-planning most often eliminates. However, Andrew’s spontaneous attitude didn’t allow for any frustration.

Upon doing a little research, he discovered something unusual. “It actually ended up being $900 to go from Europe to Australia and then back to the U.S.”

Schynige Platte, near Interlaken, Switzerland

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Photos, Left to Right: Schynige Platte; Interlaken; Switzerland; Sydney Opera House; Meteora; Greece; Agios Nlkolos; Crete; Greece; Schynige Platte; near Interlaken; Switzerland; Santorini; Greece

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Andrew is the son of Mike and Susan Curtis. Andrew’s twin, Brianna, is finishing up her Doctorate in Pharmacy at Samford University. Like Andrew, Brianna has the travel bug and has visited 17 countries throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia, Peru and Mexico.

reef, explored Sydney and got more than he bargained for at a hostel. Curtis laughed as he shared the experience. “That hostel was a hot mess. The faulty fire alarm kept going off at random. It was $15 a night, so I shouldn’t have expected much.”

For those who feel inspired to follow in his footsteps, Curtis gives this advice: “Be willing

to change your plans. Be flexible and laugh at yourself.”

Maybe jetting off for three months of travel without lives. Planning is not for everyone but we can all apply the Andrew Curtis way of life to our day to day. As in travel, life will throw obstacles, so be spontaneous and go with the flow, for at the very least, you will have a really great story.

Above: Manarola, Clinque, Terra, Italy, Santorini, Greese Left: Andrew: The Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Australia

Take Us With You on Your Smart Phone Ask about our Mobile App for easier banking

Your SMART Choice

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Home of

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(423) 884-6673

2021 US-411, Vonore, TN 37885

Meet Sherry Lashley Sherry Lashley has been a front office team member with Dr. Dash’s office since 2017. She has a great attitude and truly cares about our patients. On days off, she enjoys being with her husband of 26 years, Rick Lashley. Together they have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. We are grateful to have a hard working individual serving in our office for the community.

210 Warren Street Madisonville, Tennessee 37354 | 423.442.3928

A Unique Mix of Antiques and Collectibles on Historic Main St. in Sweetwater.

OVER 8,000 SQUARE FEET!

Everyday 10-5pm | 423-351-9480 Open ‘til 8pm on Fridays thru the end of the year 309 N Main Street, Sweetwater, TN We take Consignments and Layaway Plans are available.

Find us on Facebook and Instagram!

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Downtown Sweetwater is always in style. There’s something here for everyone!

Linda’s Creative Accents Open Mon, Tue & Sat. 11am - 4pm Wed., Thur., & Fri. 11am - 5pm 103 E. Morris St. | 423-836-9620

Sisters’ Sunflower Patch

Open Wed. - Fri. 11am - 5pm | Sat. 11am - 3pm 105 E. Morris St. | 423-536-8869

Dogwood Lane Boutique

Open Tue. - Sat. 11am - 5:30pm 107 E. Morris St. | 423-536-7046 New Store Located Chattanooga Mercantile | 6225 Ringgold Road 54

MONROE LIFE SPRING 2019

Southeastern Mercantile A Small Formal Shop in Monroe County!

309 N Main St. | 865-201-7047

Quality from Our Family to Yours!

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S p r in g

LS

FESTIVA

22nd Annual

NATIONAL CORNBREAD

FESTIVAL

By CeCe Owens

On April 27th and 28th of 2019, over 27,000 festival-goers from throughout the southeast gather in South Pittsburg to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of the 23rd Annual National Cornbread Festival. Located 30 miles west of Chattanooga, TN, this quaint southern town hosts a celebration of cornbread, often considered the cornerstone of southern cuisine.

In 1996, the National Cornbread Festival started to promote civic engagement and help local businesses. Lodge, local maker of world-class cast iron cookware seemed the perfect fit for a food-oriented festival. The community created a non-profit organization with volunteers, businesses and organizations joining in to produce the first annual festival in 1997.

Now over 350+ community volunteers of all ages put on this wonderful festival every year.

Over 15+ committees drive the planning and execution of this fun-filled weekend. All proceeds are distributed into the community through donations and other improvement projects. To date they have built and supported athletic facilities, supported boy scouts, schools and day cars, donated to theaters, churches and libraries, restored historical buildings and much more.

The festival is packed with great family fun including a Kid’s Corner with games, face painting, and inflatables. There are 56

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games, carnival rides, and booths hosting cornbread, handmade crafts, honey, fudge and rock candies that line the streets of historic South Pittsburg, live entertainment throughout the festival with tours of the historic homes and the Lodge® Cast Iron Foundry as well.

Major events during the festival include the National Lodge® Cast Iron Cornbread Cookoff, Cornbread 5K race, Classic Car Cruise-in and Cornbread Eating Contests. The best part is strolling down Cornbread Alley to taste amazing variations of this staple of southern cuisine.

Feeling creative...give it try! Take this basic three ingredient cornbread recipe and add you own special touch like cheese, bacon, peppers, oranges, or add them all. Bake your amazing original cornbread to your family’s delight!

SOUTHERN CORNBREAD RECIPE Ingredients: • 1 Cup White Self-Rising Cornmeal • 1 Egg • 1 Cup - Enough buttermilk to make thin batter Directions: • Bake for 20 minutes or until nicely browned.

With a full tummy and creative success, you are ready to head out to South Pittsburg for the National Cornbread Festival! It’s a yummy weekend of fun for all ages!

Townsend Spring Festival & Old Timers Day May 3-4 Each Spring and Fall Townsend celebrates its rich Appalachia history through music, crafts and foods. This free event includes two days of Bluegrass music, handmade crafts and food.

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy all of the Spring Festivities for the entire family at the Townsend Visitor’s Center.

Parking is $10 per day or $15 for a twoday pass. Proceeds benefit the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department. Parking passes may be purchased at the Townsend Visitor Center (7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend), the Maryville Welcome Center (201 S. Washington St., Maryville) or at the parking gate on event days. www.smokymountains.org/what-to-see/spring

New Midland Plaza Spring Craft Fair May 10-11 Up-cycled & recycled creative art, photography, candles, soaps, jewelry, paintings, hand-sewn items, sculptures, quilts, glassware, knitted novelties, crocheting, woodworking, & much more are showcased at one of the largest and most enjoyed craft fairs in the region.

Enjoy unique and yummy food offerings from multiple food trucks, & local participants like the fire & police departments.

It's two days of family friendly fun! www.newmidlandcraftfair.com/

June 1-2

Come Celebrate Our Historical Railroad Heritage Niota Model Railroad Show May 4-5 Niota, Tennessee is home to the oldest railroad depot, built in 1854. Originally named Mouse Creek Station, it is the oldest standing depot in the State of Tennessee and one of the oldest in America.

During the Civil War it was used by both the Confederate and Union soldiers as a place of safety and rest. Today, the depot is owned by the City of Niota and used by city departments.

The 57th Annual Lenoir City Arts & Crafts Festival will be held in beautiful Lenoir City Park on June 1st and 2nd, and it promises to be better than ever! The quality of the event and superb reputation of the 240 crafters have made this one of the area's most popular events. Items range from ceramics and glassware to metal work and jewelry, to baskets and much more! A wide array of fast food and home baked delicacies will be available throughout the festival. Your taste buds will delight in old favorites and new flavors. And plenty of cold beverages to satisfy a summer thirst!

This May 4th - 5th, the depot will host the 2nd annual Niota Model Railroad Show, a free to the public event showcasing train model exhibitors and vendors from around Tennessee and beyond. Last year’s inaugural event featured around 400 businesses from cities including Chattanooga, Murfreesboro, Crossville, Knoxville, and Maryville.

The event will be held at the Niota Depot and the Memorial Building- Saturday, May 4th 2019 9am-5pm and Sunday, May 5th 2019 10am-4pm. tennesseeoverhill.com/niota-depot/

lenoircityartsandcrafts.com/ SPRING 2019 MONROE LIFE

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Upscale Furniture • Décor • Art

320 Lakeside Plaza in Loudon (Tellico Village) 865.458.9721 | M-F 10AM-5PM, SAT 10AM-3PM www.PremiereConsignment.com 58

MONROE LIFE SPRING 2019

Competitive Rates – FDIC-Insured* 12 Month CD APY* 2.15%

Eric Hazuda, Agent State Farm Agent 153 Warren Street Maddisonville, TN 37354 Bus: 423.442.2886 Cell: 423.368.7101

30 Month CD APY* 2.70%

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Celebrating years of hand made pizzas

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Bert’s

Hometown Grill & Pizzeria!1987 est

902 Tellico Street • Madisonville, TN • 423.442.2222 www.bertsgrill.com

Mayor: Glenn Moser City Recorder: Sherri McCrary Alderman: James Bledsoe,

Fred Cagle, Augusta Davis, Linda Hensley and Susan Saunders CITY HALL: 423.442.9416 SPRING 2019 MONROE LIFE

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Jim Gray The Artist’s Memories

By Kaitlin Edquist of the Indiana Daily Student

I

n space, they are together, ageless. Their image travels on a probe launched four decades ago, now sailing beyond gravity and time. Should it encounter life beyond the stars, a snapshot of their lives will tell part of the human story.

On Earth, it was Valentine’s Day, 2019. Jim looked at Fran through his thin-rimmed glasses. He took one hand off his walker and reached for her, and she helped him settle into his seat. They sat hand in hand, Fran’s nails polished a pale pink. A medical alert necklace dangled from her neck.

Jim and Fran Gray have been married 65 years. In January, they’d moved into an assisted living center in Bloomington, surrounded by dementia patients like them.

In the living area, Billie Holiday was singing about all the old familiar places, and Jim sang softly along. “I’ll be seeing you…”

In the distance, three large paintings covered one wall. They show a parade bustling down the street – balloons and confetti, dancers and trumpets. Overhead, two spacecrafts streak across the sky. Jim started painting them when he turned 80 and dementia began to creep into his mind. They weren’t his best work, but that wasn’t the point. Jim was a nationally renowned artist whose landscapes and seascapes continue to hang on the walls of homes and galleries around the world. But when his hands lost their dexterity and his memory started to slip, he painted a series of three canvases called the “Joy of Life Parade.” His earlier paintings were for others. These paintings were for himself.

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Photos by Noble Guyon & The Indiana Daily Student

Top: Fran reaching over the chair checking on Jim, “Joy of Life Parade” and the sculpture of barefoot Dolly Parton, it now stands outside the Sevier County Courthouse.

Every character, from the two men balancing on unicycles to the fisherman casting his rod off the back of a pickup truck, is a person he knew. He painted them — all the old familiar faces — because he was afraid he might soon forget.

There’s a long-legged woman in a yellow, skintight leotard and matching yellow heels. The red on her lips complements the red feathers in her grand, bejeweled headpiece. That’s Fran. The center of the painting and of his life.

Now Jim is 86 and Fran is 85. In the assisted living center, Elvis is singing “Love Me Tender.” “Way to go!” Jim tells Elvis.

“Shush,” Fran says.

Jim met Fran when he went with two Air Force buddies to visit her hometown in Illinois one night. Fran and two other young women pulled up in their car, and his friends talked to the ladies in the front seat. But Jim wanted an introduction to the third girl, sitting in the back. The streetlight lit up her face, and Jim stepped back to take in her beauty. His Frannie.

“I just sort of fell in love with her first time I saw her,” Jim said.

Fran has been an anchor for Jim ever since. They married and had three children.

Art fueled their family.

Their daughter Laurie, who eventually became an artist herself, remembers playing a game when they traveled. On her website, she describes how they took turns pointing to something out the car window — a beautiful sky, for instance — and describing what brushes and colors they would use to paint it.

Alizarin Crimson? Prussian Blue? Laurie says the game taught her how to see quickly and retain what she saw in her head.

When Jim asked Fran’s opinion on his art, she’d answer honestly. When he wanted more opportunities for people to see his art, Fran suggested moving to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where they would later open the Jim Gray Gallery. When he decided he needed to step back and focus on the creative side of his artwork, she took over running the gallery.

They were playful and pranked each other.

They taught their kids never go to bed upset, and they showed them what it means to love another person.

When Jim’s dementia started setting in, Fran became his primary caregiver.

Now in the assisted living center, she continues to hold his hand. She loves being surrounded by his art. It’s in her bedroom, the living area, the hallways. “They’re all my favorites,” she said.

In the parade painting, a policewoman is smiling, a badge on her sleeve and paintbrushes in her holster. That’s Miss Clyde Kennedy, Jim’s high school art teacher. Jim is the boy on the tricycle in the aviator helmet and goggles. One of his earliest memories came when he was 4 and felt the wind brush his face as he raced over a bridge. He felt like he was flying. Beside his younger self, Jim painted his childhood neighbor, Mr. Galyean.

Like most kids, Jim has loved drawing since he was old enough to hold a crayon. But he didn’t know he could make art for a living until he was 11 and Mr. Galyean gifted him with art books, brushes and other supplies, giving him the push he needed.

Jim painted for art shows and sold thousands of paintings and prints worldwide. He even carved a larger-than-life sculpture of a barefoot, smiling Dolly Parton that still stands outside the courthouse in her Tennessee hometown.

As clocks tick and Earth continues its rotation around the sun, art captures a moment in time. Jim believes it also captures joy.

“The pure joy of creating something that ‘you’ want to make, just for that pure purpose alone, sets it aside from all the other made things, and it is ‘art,’” he wrote a few years ago. In the corner of the “Joy of Life Parade,” the two space probes race through the dark sky.

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Jim and Fran are pictured Nov. 1, 1953, on their wedding day. Jim and Fran married for over 65 years.

In 1967, a man named Jim Amos showed up at Jim and Fran’s Gatlinburg home, camera in hand. He was a photographer for National Geographic working on a story about artists and craftsmen in the Great Smoky Mountains and happened upon the Jim Gray Gallery.

It was a chance encounter between two explorers. Amos took a photo of Jim sitting at his easel painting a landscape. In the forefront, Fran tends a fire in their big red fireplace, with Mama Cat lying on her lap.

A moment of their life frozen in film.

A few years later, NASA began plans for the Voyager I and II, two space probes created to explore the outer reaches of the solar system. Astronomer Carl Sagan was assigned the task of recording the sights and sounds of Earth onto golden records that would travel with the Voyagers into space. The thought was that if extraterrestrial life ever captured one of the Voyagers, the records offered at least a chance to communicate with them, to tell the human story.

Each record contained 115 images, natural sounds and music selections representing the planet and its capabilities.

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Jane Goodall and her chimps. The Great Wall of China. Compositions by Mozart and Bach. A time capsule for the universe.

In a stroke of what Jim called “pure luck,” Sagan also included the photo of Jim and Fran. It represents man and woman and domesticated animals. The red fireplace shows Earth’s oxygen-based atmosphere.

And Jim painting in the background shows man’s creative drive. The Voyagers launched in 1977 and remain in space today, on a journey without end.

Jim has long suspected Alzheimer’s might be in his future. His father Jerry had suffered from the same disease. One day, a few years before Jerry died, the two were walking down the road when Jim’s father turned to him. “What’s your name?” he asked. “It’s Jim.” “Well, I have a son named Jim,” his father said.

Jim Gray spent much of his life trying to capture the fleeting shadows cast by trees as the sun moved over the Great Smoky Mountains. He knew time would not stop for him, but he hoped his art would outlast him.

“He has literally recorded his memories outside the confines of his brain,” his son Chris, 59, wrote in an email. “Long after Jim is gone, his memories will remain on walls all around the world.”

It’s hard to tell how much of the “Joy of Life Parade” Jim remembers now. Some days his memory is stronger than others. Some days he, like his father, can’t remember the names of his own kids. Now when he paints, volunteers set newspapers underneath his canvas, and his art isn’t precise. But he still paints with the same concentration, and the colors are just as lush.

Valentine’s Day was ending, and Fran was getting tired. She wanted to go to bed, but she didn’t know what to do about Jim. She spoke softly, telling him she was leaving.

He couldn’t hear her over the sound of “Fiddler on the Roof” playing from the television. “I’m going up to bed,” she said, a little louder this time. “Huh? Where are you going?” “Up to bed.” “I don’t know what to do,” he said. “You don’t know what?” she asked. Now she couldn’t hear over the movie. “I don’t know what to do,” he repeated. “I’d rather go to bed.”

But he made no move. It was like his body was waiting for instruction from his brain, but his brain wasn’t answering. They wanted so badly to understand each other. Fran leaned toward him, holding his hand. Jim’s other hand held her face as he tried to pull himself as close as he could to hear her.

It was no use. Finally Fran stood up and started making her way out of the room.

A moment passed, and Jim said, “Where

October Gold

Perdido Key, Florida. A few years later they would move to Nashville, Indiana, in 2016 to be near their youngest son, Matt.

did Frannie go?” As if that was a signal, a nurse came in and told Jim he was going to follow Fran and head to bed. They shuffled along, Jim with his walker, Fran with her cane. They came to the elevator. The elevator would take Fran to her bedroom on the second floor while Jim continued to his first-floor room. This was the spot where, every night, they said goodbye.

Fran stopped walking. Jim kept going. Then stopped. “Fran?” He had forgotten. He thought Fran was going to bed with him, as she had for 65 years. “Fran?” The nurse assured him she would come down and say goodnight in a bit. It was the only way to get him to go to his room. “Fran?”

Jim took one hand off his walker and reached for her. Fran paused between the open elevator door and his outstretched arm. Go ahead, the nurse told her. I’ve got him — you go ahead.

A drawing of Fran 20 years ago, hangs on the wall of Jim’s bedroom. In it, she squats in the garden of their Tennessee home. She’s planting flowers, trowel in hand. When Jim thinks of his Frannie, his son believes, this is how he remembers her. Neither have aged past this point in Jim’s mind. He still sees himself as a younger painter sometimes. And as the dementia tightens its grip, he has a hard time reconciling the Fran he sees sitting next to him and the Fran in that drawing.

As they each drift to sleep in their separate rooms, somewhere the Voyagers charge through space. They have been in space for 41 years, while on Earth Jim and Fran raised three kids, moved 11 times and sold thousands of Jim’s pieces.

Scientists say that in interstellar space, free from the destructive forces of gravity and the atmosphere, either Voyager could last for billions of years. One day, they say, the probes could be the only remaining evidence of life on Earth. Some nights, Jim and Fran’s son Chris will step outside of his rural home in Maine and look up at the night sky. The clear nights there show the vastness that surrounds us all – the stars that have blinked down on us since mankind first looked up. He’ll think about his parents’ photo up there, past the man-made satellites and aircrafts, past the planets and asteroids. A moment preserved forever. He’ll think about how his father’s life has been devoted to capturing moments like this through art.

On Earth, the years hurtle forward, and Jim and Fran’s memories retreat. And Chris imagines Voyager I spinning through space, where his parents are youthful and creative and together for what might as well be an eternity. He likes to look into the dark sky and wonder, “How far is it now?”

Majestic Mountains

Early Autumn

Old Mill

It is 13.4 billion miles away, and moving fast.

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116 Tellico Port Rd. P.O. Box 1030 Vonore, TN 37885 Toll Free: 1-877-353-2674 Proudly serving Blount, Loudon, and Monroe Counties since 1940.

Owned and Operated by Our Membership

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2009

In 2009, BarberMcMurry designed a fourstory specialized Heart Hospital for the University of Tennessee Medical Center, creating a distinctive and welcoming “front door” to the hospital campus. By 2016, the facility had reached capacity, but the constrained hospital site limited growth options. BarberMcMurry designed a vertical expansion that added five stories and 132,600 additional square feet to the existing building. The project was quickly but carefully completed in phases to allow the Heart Hospital to remain fully operational during construction.

The University of Tennessee Medical Center strives to continually improve its facility, providing best-in-class medical operations.

The community need to have medical services all in one location isn’t about convenience, it also will improve patient health. Researching the factors that improve a patient’s health was the driving factor behind the expansion of the Heart Hospital.

Input was received from physicians, nurses, health care specialists and patients.

Rooms were designed with soothing colors, adjustable lighting, and comfortable sofa beds for family members to spend the night.

The waiting areas on all levels have been equally improved to accommodate family, friends and caregivers needing breaks.

Built-in snack areas make it convenient with the added luxury of meals delivered by the cafeteria during certain hours, reducing time away from the patient.

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2016

It could be the most important 60 seconds of your life! To survive a heart attack, you need to know the signs and how to respond, well before it ever happens. Cardiac care is maintenance that we all should do, which was exactly how Freddie Atkins of Madisonville was living his life. With regular visits to his doctor, eating healthy and exercising, the marathon running grandfather was making strides in quality of life.

A routine visit triggered a diagnosed need for a stint in his heart and with the latest in innovative procedures at his disposal, it was scheduled at the University of Tennessee Heart Hospital. Dr. Jeffery Johnson, a native of Cleveland, Tennessee provides cardiac care for both Freddie and his wife, Shirley Atkins at University Cardiology. “We completely trust and even enjoy our visits with Dr. Johnson,” said Freddie, “He makes sure we understand everything clearly.”

This attention to details for reducing stress, increasing social interaction, and improving access to privacy has been shown to help patients heal. It is crucial to the patient’s healing success is to have doctors, nurses and other medical staff dedicated to working exclusively with cardiovascular disease along with a multidisciplinary approach to care and treatment.

The Heart Hospital is within close proximity to the medical center’s cardiovascular intensive care unit, pulmonary unit, cardiac catheterization center, operating rooms, emergency department and UT LIFESTAR allowing ease of access for physicians and staff.

Other additions to the Heart Hospital include a new Neuro Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Women’s and Infants unit and the Pulmonary unit.

The University of Tennessee Medical Center has a rich history of utilizing evidence-based practices to ensure that we’re delivering the highest quality of care available, and the Heart Hospital represents that commitment to patients.

Freddie arrived for the procedure and fully expected to be heading back home in a few hours, however, that changed when the evaluation determined a triple bypass was required, the damage was too great to ignore. It was a sudden change for the man who had created a healthy heart lifestyle and under the best medical care with whom he relied and trusted. Preventative care is key and because he had made that a priority, this sudden change was taking place before a life threatening heart event.

The University of Tennessee Heart Hospital is a ACS-verified Level 1 Trauma Center, the only one in the area and the first in the state to be awarded The Joint Commission’s Comprehensive Cardiac Center Certification. A huge blessing for East Tennessee residents and for Freddie, this care was now in the hands of Dr. Ben Barton, his appointed cardiovascular surgeon. Dr. Barton is a 1980 graduate of the UT Medical School followed by a Cardiothoracic residency at the prestigious Emory University.

And so it was, Freddie Atkins was scheduled for a triple bypass, while in surgery that changed to a double bypass under the masterful hands of Dr. Barton and a high risk heart stent performed by Raj Baljepally, MD, FACC. Dr. Balkepally hails from John Hopkins University School of Medicine and has been with University Cardiology since 1999. Freddie’s story is a positive one with a successful surgery, continued care from physicians and his loving family, has lead him back to his quality daily life. He and his family are grateful for the ability to receive world renowned care close to home, which allowed them to be on the journey together.

Freddie Atkins, father of our publisher, who has lived a very active life since retiring from Y-12, is back and better than ever. His marathon heart is beating with love and running the race of life!

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EXPERIENCE AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE!

Wild Tours Sweet Shop Restaurant Underground Lake And so much more!

140 Lost Sea Road , Sweetwater, Tennessee 37874

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Welcome To TELLICO PLAINS The gateway to the Cherohala Skyway and the Cherokee National Forest. Here in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, a simpler way of life prevails. Enjoy the bakery and the other shops in town that sell fine arts, crafts and furnishings.

There are plenty of restaurants and places to stay. www.tellico-plains.com

The Bookshelf The Bookshelf is a quaint little bookshop in the Historic District just off the Town Square.

Celebrating 10 years as Monroe County’s only full-service bookstore, they offer new local history books and gently used books in all categories.

Their friendly and knowledgeable staff also offers free out-of-print book searches.

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 10am-5pm 108 Scott Street, 423.253.3183 www.tellicobookshelf.com

Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center The Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains is a “must stop” before starting up the Skyway. Come by between 9am and 5pm daily for free maps of the Skyway and Cherokee National Forest, Skyway driving conditions and local area souvenirs and gifts. Picnic tables and spotless restrooms are also available, with friendly staff waiting to welcome you with important Skyway and area information!

Charles Hall Museum and Gift Shop A local historian and collector since boyhood, Charles also served as mayor of Tellico Plains for 31 years. Showcased in two museum buildings are his magnificent collections of historical local pictures and documents, antique telephones, guns, Native American artifacts, coin and currency collections, a moonshine still, a 1922 Model T Ford telephone repair truck and so much more.

Admission: Free

225 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.8010 www.cherohala.org

Open Daily: 10am–5pm, 229 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.6767, charleshallmuseum@hotmail.com www.charleshallmusuem.com

Tellicafé The Leudemann family can now boast twenty years and four generations of good service and good food at the county’s only sit-down restaurant employing an executive certified chef. The Tellicafe is open seven days a week all year round serving lunch and dinner. Our professional staff can easily serve one person or one hundred with friendly, efficient service. Specialties like Fried Green Tomatoes, Trout Cakes, Fresh Prime Rib, BBQ Menu and Country Cooking keep customers coming back time after time.

128 Bank Street, 423.253.2880 www.tellicafe.com SPRING 2019 MONROE LIFE

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Tellico Mountain Realty Helping you make our hometown your hometown.

Stop by and see one of our seasoned agents with expertise in our historic and scenic area.

418 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.6145 email: info@easttennnrealty.com www.tellicomountainrealty.com Find us on facebook Tellico Mountain Realty LLC

Tellico Kats Deli Located on the river with a wonderful view for lunch, Tellico Kats Deli has daily specials as well as homemade salads, goodies and soup. Join them for gourmet coffee or Luzianne iced tea and a friendly hello.

1829 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.3411 www.tellicokats.com

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Everhart Lumber Company, LLC Everhart Lumber Company offers wood products from contemporary to rustic styling including wide wood slabs, post and beams, wood flooring and paneling and custom-made cabinets, furniture, millwork and mantels.

Everhart has created a niche for extra wide wood slabs from huge trees that are carefully selected for their distinctively unique grain, coloring and textures. We build magnificent furniture and countertops from reclaimed materials and other sources such as Douglas Fir, Native Hardwoods, Southern Yellow Pine & Western Red Cedar. Please visit our Showroom in Tellico Plains and our online store.

Tellico Vacation Rentals Savor the serenity of your own cabin in the mountains! Choose from one to five bedrooms thats sleeps from two to ten guests. Select a cabin with a hot tub on the deck, a cozy stone fireplace or a pool table in the game room.

Our cabins are ideal for a romantic getaway, a wedding or honeymoon, a family vacation or reunion. With your own kitchen, multiple bedrooms, comfortable living areas and outdoor decks, you’ll find cabin rentals to be a fabulous value for extended vacations for several couples or extended families. Our cabins are private and comfortable, each totally unique. A change in altitude creates a change in attitude!

911 Highway 165, 423.253.2323 www.everhart-lumber.com

206 Cherohala Skyway, 866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com

The Bears Den Rich Leudemann, owner of The Bears Den and Tellicafe, located in Tellico Plains, TN, grew up in the restaurant business. His father was a restaurant owner and passed his love of the business on to Rich. Over the years, Rich has been around the business in almost every aspect. Rich’s latest endeavor, The Bears Den, a pizza restaurant heavily influenced by his Italian heritage, is now open and already hosting live music and other wonderful events. With seating for over 80 people, you are sure to find your place. Menu consists of New York Style and Sicilian Pizza. They also have specialty pizzas and dessert pizzas, cold beer, hoagies and wings.

9188 New Hwy 68, 423.253.3361 www.bearsdentellico.com

Buckets & Brews The great reviews just keep coming: the simple and distinct menu, friendly service, quality food, hospitality and friendship found at Buckets and Brews is unmatched! Buckets & Brews serving lunch and dinner with imported and domestic beer options in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Outdoor seating, a game room with pool table and catering are available. Like them on Facebook @BucketsBrewsBistro to view the menu and upcoming events.

123 Main Street, 423253.2322 Visit us on Facebook

Skyway Realty Land and Homes Skyway Realty's associates create home and land dreams​for buyers and sellers. For buyers, we hone in on and help you select the places you are most likely interested in buying. Sellers have new dreams we help them find as we sell their current properties. We love being helpers in one of the most important decisions of your lives.

We make the real estate experience enjoyable from the first call to the close and enjoy win-win transactions with everyone at the table talking to each other as friends...that's what we all like about Tellico Plains, it’s warm, friendly, peaceful and successful. Call today 423.253.7100. Email us at info1@tellico-tn.com. We are ready to go. Stop in and see us at our office on the Skyway...where the bears are.

411 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.7100 www.tellico-tn.com

The Windhorse Center The Windhorse Center is a quaint little yoga studio in Historic Downtown Tellico. We study and practice Iyengar Yoga in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. All levels of yogis are welcome and treated as family. We are open during classes up to 6 days a week. Please check out our schedule on our website and Facebook.

Mountain View Cabin Rentals If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a cabin in the mountains, Mountain View Cabin Rentals has just the spot…all 44 units have unique décor and are located on the beautiful Tellico River, at the top of a hill, in the woods or on a private pond. Amenities include hot tubs, game rooms and grills, with prices starting at $39.95.

Mountain View Cabins is biker friendly and open all year. You are sure to find something to fit your dream and your budget!

106A Scott Street, 423.442.6368 www.TheWindhorseCenter.com

1006 Cherohala Skyway, 423.519.2000 www.tellicologcabins.com

Nice to be Kneaded Massage A boost to the immune system, pain relief, better sleep, headache elimination and stress reduction are just a few of the many effects of massage.

Get in touch with the many benefits of a Nice to Be Kneaded Massage and feel a better you today!

Massage by appointment only, book online.

Hours: 11am-7pm 108 A Scott Street, 423.836.4245 www.NiceToBeKneadedMassage.com

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WE LOVE IT!

www.facebook.com/bucketlist

Go straight to the videos. What’s on your spring bucket list?

Antelope Valley, California Poppy Reserve, The Garden of Europe, Amsterdam, Magical nights in Bali, Puncak Musika Manik or Lauerbrunnen, Switzerland.

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MICHELIN • BRIDGESTONE • PRIMEWELL • FIRESTONE & MORE

Find a Lower Price and We’ll Match It.

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years of Service, Dependability, Smooth Rides and Our Price Match Guarantee! At the time of purchase, if you find a current lower advertised price on the identical, in-stock tire from a local retail competitor’s store, we will match the competitor’s pre-tax price.

GOING THE EXTRA MILE 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 SPRING 2019 w w w.matlocktir es.com

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GOOD TIMES ALL THE TIME GOOD TIMES ALL THE TIME

There’s one way we can guarantee to have an all-time summer There’s one way we can guarantee to have an all-time summer and that’s on a MasterCraft. From the unbelievably heavy and that’s on a MasterCraft. From the unbelievably heavy h i t t i n g X S t a r t o t h e u l t r a a ff o r d a b l e N X T 2 0 , t h e r e ’ s a m o d e l f o r h i t t i n g X S t a r t o t h e u l t r a a ff o r d a b l e N X T 2 0 , t h e r e ’ s a m o d e l f o r every family and more than enough stoke to go around. The best every family and more than enough stoke to go around. The best o n otnh et hw t eart eur n ul on cl ok csk st hteh eb ebsets ts us m mm e er r e ev veer r, , eevveerryy ssuu m eaw um mm me e rr ..

G e tG oe n wo a t bo on ab roda rndo n wt am t amsat setrecrrcarfat f. tc.oc m om

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