Monroe Life Spring 2025 by Bingham Group

FROM FARM TO FABULOUS COLBY WEST

PEACH STREET

CRAFT BAR AND KITCHEN

Wthe perfect CUSTOM MOTHERS DAY GIFT!

e have been serving this community since 1986, and we pride ourselves on creating the highest quality custom jewelry designs in the greater Knoxville area. We have been blessed to see our small business grow to manufacture, on average, 400 custom in-house designs per year. Using a variety of new and old techniques to accomplish the customers' goals, we are eager to help tailor our shop's abilities to each special moment.

Traditionally, a wax carver would create your item by hand, then it would be cast into gold. The customer would rarely be involved in viewing the item before the casting process. Today's newest technology allows us to rely on the much more accurate and efficient form of milling machines to carve the wax. We can take the same file we send to the milling machine and also 3D print

the prototype into a plastic model, which allows the customer to view the design before we move into the milling or casting processes. These new additional steps give our customers the ability to make changes, edit, and view photorealistic renders from the design software. While this is becoming a standard practice in our industry, we have been using these softwares, milling machines, and printers in our shop since 2004, giving us possibly one of the largest databases of pre-designed custom items in the area. Our archive is growing every day with new versions of projects, so we currently keep a database of images, prototypes, and photos of finished items in the showroom for new customers to discuss or see the level of work we do on a daily basis.

All jewelry is manufactured somewhere in this world, so why not here in Knoxville, and why not exclusively for you? The ability to look past our register, through the glass into our shop, and see your items being created

at our West Knoxville location is something we take much pride in. Without outsourcing the work or purchasing products that were not manufactured to our standards, we can assure our customer base that the priority of our entire team is the quality and workmanship we can provide. While there are many reputable manufacturers in our industry, we truly believe we are able to provide our customers with the same quality, materials, manufacturing, and workmanship that is available at any premier retail establishment in the world."

The founder of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., Genichi Kawakami, set a clear standard for Yamaha brand engineering and manufacturing when he said, “It isn’t a product if it isn’t world class.” 60 years later, Yamaha continues its endeavors to create diverse value through products and services, and we promise to keep delivering excellence in order to create a more fulfilling life for people all over the world

PROUDLY ASSEMBLED IN VONORE, TENNESSEE

The 42-acre Vonore manufacturing facility borders Lake Tellico and serves as the primary point of Yamaha boat production for the USA, Canada, and select International markets. The state-of-the-art facility has more than 450 employees and was recently expanded to include an additional 7 acres - with 36,000 additional square feet for future boat production.

www.yamahaboats.com

PEACH STREET GRILL AND CRAFT BAR

From thePublisher

The Bingham Group Is Proud To Announce A Wonderful New Addition To Our Team!

KRISTIN WEST

Account Manager & Writer

There’s something special about a good magazine. The feeling of flipping through its pages on a slow Saturday morning, coffee in hand, discovering new recipes, design inspiration, and ideas for your next family adventure. It’s a simple joy that never gets old. That’s the kind of experience I want to bring to this publication.

As a proud mom, wife, and lover of all things sports, sunshine, and the great outdoors, I cherish the moments that bring families and communities together. Whether it's celebrating local businesses, highlighting hidden gems in our area, or sharing creative ideas to make everyday life a little sweeter, my hope is that this magazine becomes a source of joy, inspiration, and connection for you.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve this place we call home, God’s Country. The Lord has blessed me with the chance to connect with our community, and I don’t take that lightly. At the Bingham Group, we strive to keep this publication fresh, exciting, and full of content that truly matters to the people who make this area one of the best places on earth.

So, grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and enjoy!

With gratitude, Kristin West

Look For My Story

On Actress Jill Wagner Of Lioness & Hallmark Fame In Our Summer Magazines, She Lives In God’s Country!

Left to Right: Lisa Bingham, President of The Bingham Group, Sharisse Steber, Illustrator for the project, Robert R. Barrett, Director of Interpretive Programming and Education, Tennessee State Parks and Leigh Hardcastle, Parks & Conservation Specialist, Interpretive Programs & Education

The Bingham Group was awarded a contract to design and illustrate Junior Ranger Booklets for all of Tennessee’s State Parks plus a new Passport for visiting the parks.

To the casual observer, this photo may appear to be just a beautiful golf course. But if you’re planning a business meeting or event and considering a hotel to host it, Fairfield Glade Resort with our five championship golf courses is a far more exciting course of action. Just bring a mission statement and an agenda. We’ll supply everything else. Including some of Tennessee’s best golf to stimulate and excite your attendees. So says Golf Digest, Golfweek and Golf Magazine.

And if you’re on a collision course with boredom at work, we offer numerous highly enjoyable ways to reverse course, in addition to golf. Miles of trails for hiking. Pristine lakes for boating and fishing. A world class Racquet Center. And an equestrian facility for horseback riding and hayrides of course.

I-40 from Knoxville is an easy course to Fairfield Glade. We’re less than 70 miles away. Stay & Play Golf Packages available. Whether it’s business or pleasure. Here It’s pleasure. Of course.

Now the fun begins. For information or reservations, call 888-334-5233

www.fairfieldglade.com

Located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322)

Celosia

BY GAYLE FISHER

If you are in the market for a spike, a plume, maybe a crested feather or a bloom that looks like a science experiment gone awry, your search is over. Celosia is your plant. This colorful annual also has a shocking hot color array, glowing reds, sunshine yellows, go big orange, cream, pink and magenta. I’ve read that they even come in bicolor, but I haven’t seen them yet. Size is no object either. You can choose from dwarfs that grow only four to six inches tall or varieties that stand over three feet in height.

My mother used the common name for this plant which is cockscomb; because the wavy fanlike flowers look very much like a rooster’s red comb. The soft velvet flower of this erect tropical plant is delightful to the touch. Celosia are easy to grow from seed and if you have been to any garden center or nurseries in the spring you will see them lined up inviting you to take them home and feed them some sunshine.

If you prefer to grow them from seed instead of buying cell packs it will take about 90 days for them to flower after planting. Not only do they look hot and they want to be hot; the soil temperature should be a least 60 degrees before planting. You can sow seeds directly in the garden in full sun. The small black seeds should be placed about 1/2 of an inch deep and kept moist until germination. Thin the plants when they have two sets of leaves following the directions on your seed packet. Celosia will grow in poor, rocky or even sandy soil but they will thrive in rich well drained soil. They also make a bright container plant when used as the spike or as an interesting focal point. When using Celosia in your border or cutting garden remember that your eye will be drawn quickly to their bright flamboyant colors and shapes.

I have seen lots of the little plumes (Plumosa) at the garden centers but what I wanted was the colored-brain-look of the (Cristata) group of Celosia. These cockscombs can grow 30

inches tall with velvety cauliflower shaped heads that can be up to ten inches across. These brain coral flowers are so large that they need to be staked so that wind and rain do not break the flower stems. Celosias are usually pest free (maybe the bugs think they look scary) but you could encounter mites, leaf spot or stem rot. They do not like wet soil or cold weather.

Cockscomb is a great cut flower or dried winter decoration. Cut them when the flowers are fully developed. For dried arrangements remove all leaves from the stems and hang upside down in a cool dark dry space for several weeks. Their color will last for at least six month without losing their bright hues. I once used the cristata type to decorate a Christmas tree, it was very Victorian, and unique. They also work beautifully in dried wreaths, and swags.

S Honeysuckle

pring in Tennessee is a magical time of year, with warmer temperatures, blooming flowers and a sense of renewal in the air. Until the 20 degree weather arrives one night in March and freezes back all the tender, new plant growth.

Plants that are native always do better with our crazy temperature swings. They have evolved in a specific place over time

adjusting to our areas soil, water and climate. Natives are defined as plants that occurred in North America before European settlement. Think of them as plants the Indians would have known. These plants have adapted to regional conditions like our hot-cold spring and they require less maintenance. They also have the advantage of not suffering from winter die back. Since they are environmentally friendly you will need

fewer pesticides and fertilizers. Natives provide food and shelter for our local wildlife. Using these plants in landscaping helps sustain our butterflies, moths, birds, reptiles, mammals and beneficial insects.

The definition for exotic plants is any species that are deliberately or accidentally introduced by human action. The perfect example of this is Japanese honeysuckle.

I love the sweet smell of this plant but I spend days every year trying to eradicate it.

In 1906 Japanese honeysuckle was introduced to the United States from Japan for use as an ornamental plant. Today, Lonicera japonica primarily occurs in disturbed habitats, including roadsides, forest edges and fence rows. They also take over forest openings created either by

bulldozer, clear cutting, disease or insect damage; it is an opportunistic invader that will quickly colonize these areas. Remember our pine beetle infestation? Honeysuckle quickly took over after the pines died. An established planting of honeysuckle is capable of engulfing small trees and shrubs, causing their collapse by crushing them to death while blocking out sunlight. Shading of plants in the understory can also occur, choking out many native species. Lonicera japonica is able to displace native species by outcompeting native plants for light, space, water and nutrients. It grows very rapidly and will send out runners that will root and grow. In nature, honeysuckle vines will twine around anything growing in close proximity. A dense thicket of these vines prevents the germination and growth of many native species, eventually preventing the replacement of understory shrubs and trees. Honeysuckle opens the door for many other invasive species, further decreasing the natural diversity of forests or natural areas.

Native alternatives to Japanese honeysuckle for use in home landscaping include trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), and trumpet or coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens).

The native Coral honeysuckle has long tubular flowers that bloom in bunches, creating a fan effect. Not only do hummingbirds love this vine it is also a larval host plant for butterflies and moths. The blooms last from spring into summer then the small, bird friendly berries appear.

I still think that Japanese honeysuckle smells great and a few always bloom along the fence row by my driveway. My grandchildren call them honey-suck-ems. And enjoy plucking the flowers and inhaling a single drop of the sweet nectar.

Master Gardener

GAYLE FISHER

BELT: THE SPECIAL STEGOSAURUS BY Tasha

Dalton

Imagine being a dinosaur with a tail so big, you’re not sure if it’s a blessing or a burden. That’s exactly how Belt, the lovable stegosaurus, feels in Belt: The Special Stegosaurus, a delightful and faith-filled children’s book by local author Tasha Dalton of Coker Creek, Tennessee.

From the moment Belt stomps onto the page, kids will giggle at his playful antics and feel his heart when he wonders why he’s so different. With bright, whimsical illustrations that bring prehistoric adventures to life, young readers are whisked away into a dinosized world of friendship, self-discovery, and God’s perfect plan.

Belt’s journey isn’t just about figuring out why his tail is so big, it’s about learning that God made him special for a reason. Just like Belt, every child who turns the pages of this book will be reminded of Psalm 139:14: “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” This powerful verse is often used to remind us that we are unique and special, created exactly as God intended.

Just as every leaf on the tree, every snowflake in the sky, and every fingerprint in the world

is different, so are we. Belt: The Special Stegosaurus encourages children to embrace their differences, knowing that God designed each of us with a special purpose. Belt’s friends show kindness, proving that true friendship is built on love, empathy, and lifting each other up, just as Jesus teaches us. Whether it’s sharing, helping, or simply being a friend, this book is a beautiful reminder that we are all wonderfully made in His image.

Tasha Dalton’s storytelling is as warm as a hug, filled with gentle lessons wrapped in fun and adventure. Her book is a must-have for parents, teachers, and little readers who love dinosaurs, uplifting messages, and the joy of knowing they are God’s masterpiece. You can find Belt: The Special Stegosaurus and Dalton’s other books, including Five Minutes with a Ballerina, on Amazon or locally at Tennessee Lace Boutique in Madisonville, Tennessee. Every book she writes is a testament to God’s love and the beauty of seeing the world through the eyes of a child.

So stomp, shuffle, and swing your tail into this delightful story. You might just discover that what makes you different is exactly what makes you special!

Tasha has written and illustrated several books. They can all be found on Amazon.

Written by Kristin West

Where Culinary Magic Meets Southern Soul

Tucked in the heart of Tellico Plains, Peach Street Craft Bar and Kitchen isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience, a love letter to fresh ingredients, and a front-row seat to the modern, organic soul of small-town life. At the heart of this flavorful oasis are Kayla and Curtis Minardi, a dynamic duo who traded in the hustle of Philadelphia and the Hudson Valley for the cozy embrace of the Tennessee mountains. Their mission? To serve up something extraordinary while raising their growing family in a town where neighbors still borrow sugar and wave from their front porches.

From City Bustle to Southern Charm

Some people move for jobs, some for love. The Menardis moved for vibes. Seeking a place that felt more “community gathering” than “concrete jungle,” they stumbled upon Tellico Plains and immediately fell for its laidback, Mayberry-esque charm. In April 2024, their lives took a delicious turn when they took over Peach Street Craft Bar and Kitchen, transforming it into a haven for food lovers, free spirits, and anyone who appreciates a little flair with their flavor.

Food with a Story (and a Side of Personality)

Peach Street Craft Bar and Kitchen isn’t about fussy food, it’s about fresh, organic, locally sourced goodness with a splash of the

unexpected. Think Cuban influences, farmto-table freshness, and dishes that taste like a warm hug from your favorite relative (who also happens to be a phenomenal cook). Kayla, an herb enthusiast and floral maven, weaves her passion into every dish and cocktail. You won’t just drink here, you’ll sip handcrafted cocktails infused with borage and pansies, because why should flowers just sit around looking pretty when they can also taste amazing? The menu changes with the seasons, so you’ll never get bored, only deliciously surprised.

Modern, Organic, and a Little Bit Fancy

Peach Street Craft Bar and Kitchen is upscale casual, meaning you can dress up if you want, or roll in straight from a mountain hike, still smelling like adventure. With open-air dining, a laid-back atmosphere, and an organic menu inspired by fresh ingredients, it’s the kind of place where you can sip a handcrafted drink while debating whether moving to Tellico Plains might just be the best life decision you’ll ever make. Peach Street has built a reputation for hosting unforgettable special menu events! Up next, don’t miss their spectacular Easter and Mother’s Day brunches, each crafted to delight your taste buds. But that’s just the beginning! Stay tuned for more exciting events coming soon!

Fresh. Local. Fun.

The Menardis aren’t just running a restaurant, they’re crafting a movement. Every dish is made from scratch, meaning

they can accommodate gluten-free, vegan, and “I-don’t-know-what-I-want-but-make-itdelicious” diets with ease. And by sourcing locally, they’re not just serving incredible food, they’re supporting local farmers and artisans, keeping the heartbeat of Tellico Plains strong.

More Than a Restaurant, It’s a Gathering Place

At Peach Street Craft Bar and Kitchen, you’re not just a customer, you’re part of the family. Whether you come for the food, the flowers, or just the good vibes, one thing’s for sure: you’ll leave with a happy stomach, a relaxed soul, and maybe even a few new friends. So pull up a chair, take a sip of something floral and fabulous, and enjoy a taste of Tennessee, Minardi-style.

Enjoy a fine craft beer while in Tellico,they rotate what they have on tap. Seasonal and local micro breweries are available.

For upcoming events and to browse their menu, check out their Facebook, Instagram, and website, peachstreetgrill.com.

BRUNCH ON SUNDA Y!

SPRING GARDEN FIZZ

1 oz Franklin Gin

1 oz Strawberry Infused Aperol

1 oz Nutmeg Scented Geranium Syrup

1/2 oz Lemon Juice

1 Egg White Sparkling water

TO MAKE THE COCKTAIL

• Vigorously shake all ingredients in a shaker for about 15 seconds

• Add ice and continue to shake until chilled

• Double strain into a chilled coupe, highball, old fashioned glass, your choice!

• Top with sparkling water

• Garnish with nutmeg scented geranium leaves, the best way to awaken the scented oils in the geranium leaves is by gently “slapping” the glass you intend to drink out of with a stem of scented geranium.

• Add any other available spring edible flowers for more color

STRAWBERRY INFUSED APEROL

1 Cup fresh chopped Strawberries

1 Cup Aperol

• Combine Aperol and strawberries in a pint size mason jar.

• Seal and place in the refrigerator for 1-3 days.

• Pour through a fine mesh strainer and discard strawberries.

NUTMEG SCENTED GERANIUM SYRUP

1 Cup cold water

1 Cup Fine granulated syrup

1 Cup nutmeg scented geranium leaves

• Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Heat until all sugar is dissolved.

• Remove from heat and add geranium leaves to steep in the syrup while it cools.

• Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator

THESE RECIPES ARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY INGLES, STARTED IN 1963 BY ROBERT P. INGLE AND COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE

FARM TO TABLE

n order to bring the freshest produce available to his customers Elmer Ingle used to visit local farmers in the early mornings, picking up only the best Today, the store and the people look a little different but the produce doesn’t everywhere you look the Ingles produce department has the freshest and the tastiest produce available, from local farmers just like Elmer and from around the world Making sure you have the less traveled – best selection. We have an excellent variety of organic selections and a fresh produce prep area where we can core a pineapple, cut watermelon or put together the perfect combination of fresh vegetables for you, all with knowledgeable and friendly associates ready to help. Next time you visit your neighborhood Ingles, take a little more time to notice how much the tradition of the highest standards still remains with every fruit and vegetable

INGLES….EXPECT MORE FROM YOUR LOCAL STORE.

SMOKIN’ JOE LASHER’S

Prep time: 30.

Standing time: 30 minutes - 4 hours.

Cook time: 10

Serves: 4

Relish:

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup tomato, seeded and finely chopped

1/2 cup yellow or red bell pepper, finely chopped

1/3 cup red onion, minced, rinsed and drained

1 small garlic clove, minced

1/4 tsp. chipotle chili powder

1 small lime, juiced and zested

Kosher salt & finely ground black pepper

Corn Cakes:

2 cups fine grind cornmeal

1/4 cup all purpose flour

2 tsp. baking powder

1 1/2 cup whole milk

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

1 large egg, lightly beaten

Shrimp:

1 lb. extra large (16/20 ct) shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on 1/2 cup sour cream extra virgin olive oil fresh cilantro sprigs

GRILLED SHRIMP AND GRIDDLED CORN CAKES WITH BLACK BEAN AND TOMATO RELISH

In a medium bowl combine the relish ingredients, including 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/4tsp. pepper. Mix well and let stand at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

In a medium bowl whisk the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. (If using polenta, process it in a food processor until ground to the texture of fine sand, 1 to 2 minutes.) In a large measuring cup whisk the milk, butter, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and whisk gently until a smooth batter forms, being careful not to over mix.

Prepare the grill for direct cooking over medium heat (350° to 450°F). Preheat a griddle over direct heat for about 10 minutes. Lightly brush the shrimp with oil and season evenly with 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Coat the griddle with 2 tbsp. oil.

Working in batches, ladle 1/4 cup of the batter for each cake onto the griddle, flattening each cake gently with the back of a spoon. Cook over direct medium heat, with the lid closed, until the corn cakes are browned on both sides and cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes, turning once. At the same time, grill the shrimp over direct medium heat until they are just firm to the touch and opaque in the center, 3 to 5 minutes, turning once or twice.

To serve, divide the corn cakes among serving plates and dollop about 2 tsp. of sour cream on each cake. Top with one or more shrimp (depending on the size you purchased). Drain and spoon the relish alongside each cake. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes: This is where you add something personal about your recipe. A memory, an alternate ingredient idea, a special way to garnish it, etc.

CHICKEN MARSALA WITH MASHED POTATOES

by Chef John Gifaldi

Serves: 4 - 6

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin and pounded out

1 shallot, minced

2 tbsp. fresh parsley, minced

2 tbsp. olive oil

5 white mushrooms, sliced

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup Marsala wine

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

prepared mashed potatoes

Directions

Place a chicken breast on the cutting board. Hold it steady with one hand, then using a sharp knife, slice through the middle horizontally Cover each half of the chicken with plastic wrap and pound it out until the chicken is 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Melt 1 1/2 tbsp. butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts in hot butter and oil until browned. Flip and cook until chicken is almost cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate

Using the same pan, add 1-2 tbsp. of olive oil and sauté the mushrooms and onions, with a pinch of salt and pepper, until mushrooms are golden and onions are translucent, 5 to 7 min -

Pour wine into the skillet and bring to a boil; keep stirring until the sauce thickens, 3 to 4 minutes. Add chicken stock; bring to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced, 3 to 5 minutes more.

oking Transfer chicken to plates of mashed potatoes, spooning the mushrooms and sauce over the top

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/chicken-marsala-with-mashed-potatoes

PROSCIUTTO WRAPPED SHRIMP

by Chef Derek St Romain

Shopping List

1 pound 8-10 count tail on shrimp or prawn (or the largest shrimp you can find)

Instructions

Leave the tail on the shrimp and defrost. On a cutting board, lay out a strip of Prosciutto and place 1 defrosted shrimp on top.

Then, stack slivered garlic, 2 water chestnuts slivers, and one basil leaf on top of the shrimp

Put 2 drops of Sriracha on top of the basil leaf

Wrap the prosciutto around and place a skewer through to hold it together

(pre-soak skewers for 20 minutes in water before grilling to prevent them from catching on fire)

Ingles pre-sliced prosciutto 10 cloves garlic, slivered thin 1 can water chestnut bunch basil leaves olive oil

Repeat this process for all of the shrimp then sprinkle all with salt and pepper.

For the blackberry reduction sauce, combine 1/4 cup red wine and 1/8 cup balsamic glaze in a bowl

Add 1 package fresh blackberries into the wine and balsamic mixture

Mix together until all of the Blackberries have been broken down to a liquid.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/prosciutto-wrapped-shrimp

salt and pepper sriracha

1/4 cup red wine

1/8 cup balsamic glaze

1 package fresh blackberries

To Cook

Heat grill on high then place skewered shrimp on the grill. Shrimp will be done in less than 6 minutes, but you must continuously watch them and turn very frequently as not to allow the prosciutto to burn.

Once cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees take them off of the grill and allow to set for 2 minutes

Then drizzle with Blackberry reduction d

Shopping List

STEAK

1 Hickory Nut Gap Ribeye

Salt and Pepper To Taste Potatoes

1/2 Tbsp Organic Coconut Oil

3 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes

3/4 cup garlic cloves

3/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive oil

1 Tbsp butter

Salt and Pepper To Taste

French Green Beans

1 lbs Local Green Beans, prepped or French Green Beans in Produce Dept

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (As Needed)

Salt and Pepper To Taste

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/perfectly-cooked-steak

Instructions STEAK

Place seasoned steak on a sheet pan with a little coconut oil in a preheated 200* oven Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Remove the steak when it reaches an internal temperature of 120*F.

Set aside. Preheat non-stick pan to med-high heat and add 1⁄2 Tbsp coconut oil. Sear steak until well browned on both sides until desired doneness. No need for resting since the entire steak will be at the same doneness throughout. For thinner steaks, use higher heat for searing and be quick!

POTATOES

Roast garlic in olive oil in a 1 qt or larger saucepan on medium heat until lightly browned, about 12-15 minutes

Boil potatoes on medium heat (less water absorption) until done. Add roasted garlic, oil & butter.

Mash well, for best results, use a food mill before adding remaining ingredients then stir together

GREEN BEANS

Roast seasoned green beans with oil at 375*F for 25 minutes.

PEPPERED BACON PORK BURGERS WITH CHIPOTLE SORGHUM BBQ SAUCE

Smokin’ Joe Lasher

Serves: 4

Ingredients

2 lb. ground pork

1 lb thick cut bacon, chopped

1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

6 tbsp. butter, softened, divided

4 tsp coarse ground pepper

1 tbsp. smoked paprika

1 tbsp kosher salt

4 fresh burger buns

8 slices of your favorite cheese

Chipotle Sorghum BBQ Sauce

1 1/2 cups ketchup

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup sorghum syrup

2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped

1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 tbsp. brown mustard

1 tsp. ground pepper

1 tsp onion powder

Instructions

Mix all BBQ Sauce ingredients in saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until desired thickness. Set aside.

Prepare grill for direct and indirect cooking.

In a skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat, caramelize onions with 2 tbsp. butter; set aside

Thoroughly mix ground pork, chopped bacon, 4 tbsp butter, salt, smoked paprika and 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce

Form into 1/3 lb. burger patties. Liberally coat one side of each patty with coarse ground pepper

Indent each burger in the center (to catch grease) and place over indirect heat and let cook almost all the way through before flipping. Watch for flare-ups! Once burgers are flipped, top each with two slices of cheese and let melt. Note: Burgers should reach internal temp of 165°F

Don’t forget to toast your buns!

Place caramelized onions on to your toasted bottom bun. Lay a cheeseburger over onions, smother in BBQ Sauce, and top with the other half of the bun.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ peppered-bacon-pork-burgers-with-chipotle-sorghum-bbq-sauce

MINTED PEACH SHORTCAKE

by Chef Derek St. Romain

Shopping List

1/2 cup orange juice

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups frozen peaches

1/4 cup fresh blackberries

2 Tbsp salted butter

Whipped cream

Fresh mint and fresh blackberries to garnish

1 pound cake, sliced to plate

Instructions:

Melt butter in a saucepan then add the frozen peaches and cook for about 2 minutes

Add orange juice and granulated sugar in the saucepan. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved.

Add mint and blackberries and cook on low another minute or two

Slice shortcakes horizontally. Place a layer of peaches on the bottom shortcake half, and top with fresh mint and blackberries. Repeat to form second shortcake layer and top with blackberries as well. Garnish with fresh mint and whipped cream

PESTO SMASHED FINGERLING POTATOES WITH ROASTED TOMATOES

by Smokin’ Joe Lasher

Serves 6 - 8

Ingredients

8 oz. of your favorite basil pesto

1 1/2 lb. fingerling potatoes, washed

1 lb grape tomatoes, cut in halves

3 tbsp. olive oil

1/4 cup arugula

1/4 cup chopped walnuts salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Pre-heat oven to 450°F

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add two tablespoons of Kosher salt and add potatoes. Lower heat to medium-high and let cook for about 10 minutes, until fork tender.

Grease a large baking sheet with olive oil. Drain potatoes and place in rows on the baking sheet. Use a flat bottom cup or back of a spoon to “smash” potatoes

Add cut tomatoes to the baking sheet, spreading evenly in a single layer. Drizzle everything with olive oil

Bake for 20 minutes until the edges are crispy. Season with salt and pepper.

Transfer to a serving dish and top with pesto, olive oil, fresh arugula, and chopped walnuts.

Served warm or cold

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/pesto-smashed-fingerling-potatoes-with-roasted-tomatoes

FROM FARM TO

Fabulous

COLBY WEST’S JOURNEY TO EVENT DESIGN EXCELLENCE

Colby West’s story is rooted in his upbringing in the small town of Tellico Plains, where he grew up on a farm that emphasized hard work and creativity. Fixing fences at sunrise and arranging wildflowers by noon taught him how to make beauty out of what was available.

Photography by Ben Finch, Written by Kristin West

His entry into event design began in high school when a friend asked for help with a wedding. That initial experience ignited a passion that has led him to become a prominent figure in the industry. “Growing up on a farm, you have to be creative,” Colby reflects. “I gardened, grew my own flowers, and learned how to design using nature. Small-town life fosters creativity, and my family taught me a lot about hard work and artistic vision.”

Colby

pursued his passion at the University of Tennessee, where he honed his skills and broadened his artistic perspective. Today, his business, Colby West Design, showcases his talent through an expanding portfolio of impressive events. Whether he’s orchestrating grand weddings, intimate dinner parties, or joyful baby showers, Colby and his team are known for creating unforgettable experiences tailored to each client’s vision. His sharp aesthetic sense and meticulous attention to detail elevate any gathering into something remarkable.

Photography by Ben Finch

One standout aspect of Colby’s services is his willingness to travel for destination events, bringing his unique design style to various locations. No matter the venue, his ability to create custom, stunning spaces ensures that every occasion leaves a lasting impression. From rustic barns to elegant ballrooms, he can transform any location into something extraordinary.

In addition to event design, Colby’s entrepreneurial spirit is leading him to new creative projects. His upcoming line of home goods will feature beautifully crafted bowls, sculptures, and festive Christmas decor, allowing fans to incorporate his artistry into their own homes.

Colby attributes much of his success to his dedicated team, whose hard work helps bring his vision to life. “I couldn’t do what I do without my team,” he emphasizes. “Their creativity and commitment are what make every event special.”

For those seeking inspiration or a free design consultation, Colby invites you to explore his work on Instagram and his website, colbywestdesign.com.

From his humble farm beginnings to his rise as a sought-after event designer, Colby West’s journey reflects passion, creativity, and the strength derived from his roots. With every event he touches, he demonstrates that with dedication and vision, the possibilities are truly limitless.

MEET

A DIFFERENCE

EMAKER: How

Dr. Justin Daggett Molds Technology to Change Lives

ast Tennessee Children’s Hospital is pushing the boundaries of not what is but what could be in pediatric healthcare. The Discovery Innovation and Simulation Center (DISC) is a testament to Children's Hospital's unwavering commitment to providing the best possible care for every child and equipping them for success.

DISC is a technology-focused space dedicated to the latest innovations in pursuit of improved healthcare outcomes for patients. Opened in 2020, this center is a vital component of the hospital’s care continuum. It includes uniquely-designed spaces for virtual reality, collaboration, research and development, training, simulation and 3D printing.

In the innovation center, you will find Dr. Justin Daggett, director of pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgery at Children’s Hospital, improving patient outcomes using 3D printing technology. He received his medical degree at the Case Western School of Medicine then completed an integrated residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of South Florida. Following his residency, he completed a fellowship in pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgery at the University of Pittsburgh and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Prior to joining Children’s Hospital, Dr. Daggett served sev-

eral years as a missionary surgeon in Kenya, where he co-directed the first multidisciplinary cleft team in east Africa and served as the only craniofacial surgeon for several countries.

Today, Dr. Daggett’s main clinical focus is on children with congenital deformities, including orofacial clefts and craniofacial anomalies. Inspired by unique medical challenges, he uses the technology at DISC to better help his patients and their families by printing models, like skulls. “These procedures can be difficult to explain to patient families due to their complexity, so these models give us a surgical guide to show them exactly what is going on and to help them feel more comfortable,” said Dr. Daggett.

This is not only changing the technological advances at Children’s Hospital but also allows for direct improvement in pediatric plastic surgery. Recently, Dr. Daggett been working to improve outcomes in auricular

Dental cone beam computed tomography (CT) is a special type of x-ray equipment used when regular facial x-rays are not sufficient. Your doctor may use this technology to produce three dimensional (3-D) images of your soft tissues, nerve pathways and bone in a single scan.

Recently, Dr. Daggett been working to improve outcomes in auricular reconstruction in patients that have ear abnormalities. This procedure includes retrieving cartilage from the rib, forming the cartilage into the shape of the ear which can be placed beneath the child’s skin to create a new ear. Using a combination of 3D scanning and 3D printing he is then able to create a mold that is custom fitted to each patient helping to both protect the healing ear and achieve an ideal long term appearance.

Through generous donations, Children’s Hospital’s has purchased state-of-the-art technology to better serve patients by allowing Dr. Daggett and many other physicians to perform these procedures. Last year, a donor dinner raised funds to purchase a CBCT scanner. The scanner allows patients to receive 3D images of their teeth, mouth, jaw, neck, ears, nose and throat at the hospital instead of at their dentist, which will speed up the diagnosis and treatment process. “These pieces of equipment are not only important to Children’s Hospital but also to our patient families. By having this technology, we our saving our patients’ valuable time and money,” said Dr. Daggett.

With your help, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital can continue to take care of our future, one child at a time. From lemonade stands to black tie dinners, members of the community with a shared interest in the mission of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital help raise funds all over the region. Their time and efforts are limitless, and the hospital greatly appreciates the support. If you’d like to donate or host a fundraiser, please visit etch.com/ways-to-give/ to learn more.

Written By Kristin West

Hometown Dream:

Jim’s Mattress & More & Lavender Moon Decor & Gifts

If you’ve ever stepped into Jim’s Mattress & More or Lavender Moon Decor in Madisonville, chances are you were greeted with a smile and a heartfelt “How can we help you?” That’s just the kind of place Jim and April Edmonds have built, a business where neighbors are treated like family and a good night’s sleep or the perfect home accent is just around the corner.

Jim and April have been proudly serving our community for over four years, but their story goes back even further. What started as a flea market venture grew into something bigger when they purchased

their own building in January 2022. After pouring their hearts into renovations, they officially opened the doors to their new location off New Highway 68 in Madisonville, in November of that same year.

Jim’s roots run deep in East Tennessee. Though he grew up in Knoxville, Madisonville has always felt like home. His grandparents owned a dry-cleaning business downtown, and he spent many childhood days there, soaking in the rhythm of small-town life. April, on the other hand, is a Madisonville native through and through. After some time in Adairsville, Georgia, she returned to her hometown in 2016, and fate soon brought these two together, on the sidelines of a Madisonville Middle School basketball game, where their daughters played on the same team. The two married in May 2021, blending a lively family of four daughters, four cats, and their beloved dog, Juno.

Jim’s journey in the mattress industry began back in 1992 at Chattanooga Mattress in East Ridge. Over the years, he owned his own mattress store, ventured into real estate, and never quite let go of his passion for helping folks find the perfect mattress. Even when life took him in different directions, he always found himself drawn back to what he does best, providing quality sleep solutions to his community. His side hobby of selling mattresses eventually turned into Jim’s Mattress & More, a thriving business offering top national brands like Beautyrest, BeautySleep by Simmons, Nectar, and Sierra Sleep by Ashley. And the “More” in the name? That includes bed frames, pillows, sheets, mattress pads, and all the little things

that make a house feel like home. As an authorized Ashley Furniture retailer, Jim’s Mattress & More also offers over 4,000 furniture items online, ready to ship right to your door.

April brings her own special touch to the business. With over 25 years in accounting and community banking, she’s always had a sharp business sense, but her true passion has always been decorating. When she started working alongside Jim, she discovered a love for creating cozy, welcoming spaces with home decor, area rugs, and accent furniture. That love soon blossomed into Lavender Moon Decor & Gifts, a thoughtfully curated collection of home accents, gifts, and stylish decor, all available in the same convenient location as Jim’s Mattress & More.

Beyond their store, Jim and April stay deeply involved in the community they love. Jim was recently named President of the Downtown Madisonville Alliance, working to help revitalize and support local businesses. Together, they’ve built something special, not just a business, but a place where folks can come, browse, chat, and leave feeling just a little more at home.

So, whether you’re in need of a better night’s sleep, a fresh new look for your space, or just a friendly face and good conversation, Jim and April are always happy to welcome you in. Stop by and see for yourself why Jim’s Mattress & More and Lavender Moon Decor & Gifts are more than just stores, they’re part of the heartbeat of Madisonville.

Left to Right: April and Jim Edmonds and their children, Ella E., Kelsea, Ella D. and Emery .

Beautyrest, BeautySleep by Simmons, Nectar, and Sierra Sleep by Ashley.

“More” In The Name? That includes bed frames, pillows, sheets, mattress pads, and all the little things that make a house feel like home.

SHOP LOCAL

IN STOCK RUGS

Let Us Take Care of Your Family.

Primary Care. Here for You.

At Blount Memorial Physicians Group in Vonore, we’re dedicated to serving our neighbors with primary care services. Certified physician assistant Katherine Whaley provides preventative care and chronic illness management while assisting with the routine and unexpected medical needs of your family.

Some services offered:

■ Acute care of illnesses and injuries

■ Minor injury laceration repair

■ Annual Medicare wellness visits

■ Well patient care

■ Preventive health screenings and annual physicals

■ Basic procedures such as electrocardiogram (EKG)

■ Patient health education

■ Physician referral for specialized treatments

■ Flu/strep/COVID testing

HAND PAINTED FURNITURE

Did You Know?

The Monroe County School System serves approximately 5,000 students in 13 schools.

The district is led by Director of Schools, Dr. Kristi Windsor, and a voter-elected School Board from four districts: Chairman, Dr. Lon Shoopman, Vice Chair, Jo Cagle, and board members Sharin Freeman, Freddie Kelley, Richard Bettis, Bryan Kyle, John Ridgell, Mark Ingram, Dean Williams, and Mitch Avery.

The School Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Monroe County Schools boasts a very successful Career & Technical Education (CTE) program for its students, with nationally recognized career clusters geared toward the ultimate goal of preparing students for post-secondary/college and career success.

The school system continues to lead the way in Coordinated School Health (CSH), expanding access to health care for students and teachers across Monroe County through Chota's schoolbased clinics.

In August 2022, the Monroe County Virtual School opened. This is a standalone school designed to serve students in upper elementary, middle, and high school, who have the need to learn virtually. The school has full-time teachers on staff who are able to provide assistance to virtual students at any time, which gives students a way to learn that fits them, while also having the support and encouragement of full-time teachers.

For more information, call the Monroe County School System at 423-442-2373 or visit monroek12.org.

K-3 HOME LIBRARY PROGRAM

The K–3 Home Library program is an annual summer book delivery initiative that serves public school students across Tennessee, made available by Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation (GELF).

The purpose of the program is to provide students with books and resources to support learning in the home and help combat student learning loss.

This is accomplished by delivering a pack of high-quality, age-appropriate books and literacy building materials directly to the homes of participating elementary school students during the summer, at no cost to families or schools.

Mayor: Scott Hunt

Recorder: Sherri Mccrary

Alderman: Chris Bowers, Rhonda Cooley, Ed Dawson,

Senator Estes Kefauver

SERIES BY RAY HILL AND COURTESY OF THE KNOXVILLE FOCUS Ray Hill

Estes Kefauver had started out his political life allied to the ruling faction in Tennessee politics; that of senior Senator Kenneth D. McKellar and E. H. Crump, leader of the Shelby County political machine. With his election to Congress in 1939, Kefauver began to drift away from his political moorings. When the young Congressman fought the amendments Senator McKellar passed in the Senate affecting the Tennessee Valley Authority, Kefauver became solidly identified as an opponent of McKellar and Crump. Senator McKellar especially came to dislike Estes Kefauver intensely. McKellar’s loathing of Kefauver would draw the two men into political conflict and the ambitious Kefauver would toy with the idea of challenging the old senator for reelection in 1946.

Kefauver did not waste time in separating himself from his Southern colleagues in the House. While the House was debating a bill to eliminate the poll tax, Southern Congressmen were surprised to find Estes Kefauver wandering from the herd. Kefauver was subjected to a bitter tirade by Mississippi Congressman John E. Rankin, who strongly objected to federal interference in the affairs of individual states. Rankin was also a gleeful racist and race-baiter. Congressman Rankin pointed a bony finger at Kefauver and cried, “Shame on you, Estes Kefauver!”

Congressman Kefauver readily admitted his desire to end the poll tax was not “politically expedient” in his home state of Tennessee, but retorted he would do what he thought was right. It is also true opposition to the poll tax had been embraced by just about every opponent to the Crump machine in Memphis. Generally those candidates favored by Senator McKellar and Mr. Crump had supported retention of the poll tax, while opponents to the McKellar – Crump alliance supported repealing the poll tax.

Describing the poll tax as “repugnant to democracy”, Kefauver went well beyond opposing the poll tax being applied to the ballots of soldiers fighting in the World War, saying it “should not be tolerated” at all.

Kefauver’s fellow Southerners quickly came to view the Chattanoogan with suspicion. That suspicion would later become outright dislike.

As a Congressman, Kefauver generally was supported by labor groups, although he deviated from the official position taken by big labor occasionally. One such occasion was Kefauver’s support for the Smith-Connally bill. Kefauver’s return to Chattanooga following his vote in favor of the Smith-Connally legislation caused the Congressman to be castigated by labor supporters. Unlike many Democrats in the Tennessee Congressional delegation, Kefauver was opposed to the TaftHartley bill, although Kefauver retained considerable personal respect for the sponsor, Senator Robert A. Taft of Ohio.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt shakes hands with Sergeant Alvin York, famed hero of the First World War. Left to Right: Governor Prentice Cooper, of Tennessee; a young Representative Estes Kefauver, Senator Kenneth McKellar, Senator Tom Stewart, all of Tennessee. Sergent York , Mrs. York and Jesse Lasky, producer of a motion picture about York.

Kefauver surprised some labor leaders with his attitude on legislation; Kefauver did not hesitate to say he disagreed with a particular stand taken by his labor supporters, but added he would change his stand if someone could show him where he was wrong. It was an attitude that both surprised and pleased labor leaders. Many Southern Congressmen and senators were quite hostile to big labor at the time. It was yet another aspect of Estes Kefauver’s political philosophy that put him at odds with other Southern legislators. The dislike of Kefauver by some Southerners became quite pronounced and it began to affect Kefauver’s ability to pass legislation.

According to Kefauver’s biographer, Charles Fontenay, Congressman Kefauver had introduced a bill to give a woman $10,000 whose son had been killed while working for the Civilian Conservation Corp. Senator James Eastland of Mississippi three times kept Kefauver’s relief bill from passing, although it had been approved by the House of Representatives.

Republican Congressman John Jennings, Jr. finally walked across the Capitol to visit Eastland personally and was bluntly told the bill would never be passed because it was Kefauver’s bill.

Judge Jennings replied that it was not Kefauver’s bill, but his own.

“Oh, in that case we’ll pass it,” Senator Eastland quickly said.

The suddenly amiable Eastland even agreed to increase the poor woman’s compensation bill by $3,500 after it had been reduced to $2,500 by the Senate.

Congressman Kefauver later helped Jennings, a Knoxville Republican, when President Truman intended to veto a claims bill Jennings had sponsored. Kefauver managed to convince Truman not to exercise his veto power. Truman would later become a bitter enemy of Estes Kefauver and likely disliked the Tennessean as much as did Senator McKellar.

Harry Truman was himself the product of a political machine, that of Boss Tom Pendergast of Kansas City. A man of intense personal and political loyalties, Harry Truman disliked Kefauver’s independent political spirit. Kefauver found himself embarrassed as the president’s disdain for him manifested itself in small ways. Congressman Kefauver had tried to arrange for a class of Baylor School students to have their picture taken with President Truman and was advised by the White House the request was impossible.

Kefauver was therefore shocked to see a group of smiling Baylor youngsters smiling with Truman on the front page of the

Chattanooga News Free Press. It was doubly humiliating for Kefauver as the News Free Press was a newspaper solidly opposed to him.

The appointment with the President was supposedly made by Tennessee’s junior United States senator, Tom Stewart, but it was the powerful Senator McKellar who had interceded on behalf of the Baylor students.

Kefauver angrily wrote the President’s appointments secretary, Matthew Connally, to complain. Kefauver said it was a “shoddy way to do anyone” and went onto gripe “to say that I am embarrassed is putting it mildly.”

The Congressman dropped a hint that he might be less inclined to support Truman’s legislative program, especially as it seemed those who were less helpful to Truman were able to wrangle favors from the White House.

Kefauver would later tussle with McKellar over patronage in Tennessee and rarely ever did he get his way. The venerable McKellar had been in Congress since Kefauver was about eight years old and was accustomed to fighting for control of political patronage in his home state. More than one McKellar colleague was left to complain Old Mack had control of virtually all political appointments in Tennessee. Whatever Kefauver’s disappointments in Washington might have been, he remained popular inside his Congressional district.

Kefauver was almost as good as Senator McKellar in writing folks and doing whatever he could to be helpful. He returned to Chattanooga often and never missed an opportunity to move around his district and visit with voters.

Kefauver was also pleased by finally having a child. Nancy and Estes Kefauver had almost given up on having a family of their own and were considering adopting a baby when Mrs. Kefauver joyfully announced she was pregnant. Their daughter Eleanor was born, but the child proved to be exceptionally strong minded and later renamed herself “Linda.” Absolutely refusing to answer to her given name, Estes and Nancy Kefauver, along with everyone else, finally capitulated and referred to their daughter by the name she had chosen for herself.

The Kefauver household was growing with the arrival of their daughter and including a cook and two cocker spaniels. Kefauver’s apartment was seeming ever smaller and he was forced to rent an adjoining apartment to give the family more living space. The Kefauver family continued to expand when Estes and Nancy adopted a little boy from an adoption agency in Illinois. The blond, blue-eyed little boy was six weeks old when he went to live with his new family and it was not long after that Nancy discovered she was pregnant again.

To pare down expenses, Kefauver gave up the rented home he kept in Chattanooga and when the Kefauvers went home to Tennessee, they moved in with friends for the duration.

Congressman Kefauver was reelected easily every two years, but the politics inside his Hamilton county base continued to evolve. The political feud between Judge Will Cummings and Wilkes Thrasher continued to rage, but a new force to be reckoned with appeared in the form of Wiley Crouch. Couch beat Cummings to serve as County Judge, while Cummings still held considerable sway with the County Commission. For sometime, all the feuding factions supported Kefauver for Congress.

Most all of the feuding factions also strongly supported Senator K. D. McKellar; in fact, most were firstly loyal to the aging senator. As 1946 approached, the ambitious Kefauver began to consider moving up to the United States Senate. Kefauver liked McKellar no better personally than McKellar liked him. McKellar would be seventy-seven years old when he had to seek reelection in 1946, although there were few signs the senator was truly vulnerable to a serious challenge inside the Democratic primary.

McKellar’s health was beginning to deteriorate and every fall, fainting spell and bad cold received attention in the Tennessee newspapers. McKellar had also not had real opposition inside the primary since 1928. Despite having done personal favors for tens of thousands of Tennesseans, McKellar’s battles with TVA Director David Lilienthal had sapped some of his personal popularity back home.

Yet there was little reason to believe the McKellar – Crump alliance had lost any of its potency at the polls. Jim Nance McCord, the gubernatorial candidate supported by McKellar and Crump in 1944, had run without opposition inside the Democratic primary and would be running for reelection in 1946.

Despite being seventy-seven years old and having served in Congress since 1911 and the United States Senate since 1917, there was no sign the aging senator intended to retire. In fact, quite to the contrary. There was every reason to believe the old senator intended to run for a sixth term in 1946.

Estes Kefauver began sounding out friends and supporters for a potential Senate bid in 1946 against Tennessee’s most formidable vote-getter and perhaps the most personally popular political figure in the state.

LOOKING BACK

BALD RIVER FALLS PHOTOS FROM THE MUSEUM

Preserving local, Appalachian and American History and Heritage with an emphasis on the Greater Tellico Plains areas. Over 15,000 relics, pictures and documents displayed in two buildings!

A 501(c)(3) Foundation Governed by a Board of Directors

UPCOMING EVENTS

TELLICO PLAINS CARS & COFFEE AT CHARLES HALL MUSEUM

2nd Saturday, April-October April 12, May 10, June 14, July 12, August 9, Sept 13, Oct 11 10am - 2 pm

All Makes & Models Food Vendors

No entry fee or registration Weather Permitting

SKYWAY FESTIVAL

9th Annual

Saturday, October 25

Josh Graves Music Tribute Darrah Wiseman Cherohala 5K www.skywayfestival.com

MUSEUM MARKETPLACE

Vintage . Antiques. Local Crafters & Artisans. General Store. Local Honey & Goat Milk Soaps

Monroe Jewelers (Bld 2) Jewelry & Watches Store . Jewelry Repair

Timeless Treasures Gifts (Bld 1) Souvenirs. Simply Southern . Judy Blue Enewton, Julie Vos & Kendra Scott Jewelry

Open 10 am-5 pm, 7 Days a Week ADD: FREE ADMISSION 423-253-8000 charleshallmuseum@hotmail.com

TO CHATTANOOGA

SWEETWATER VISITOR CENTER AND DEPOT TO KNOXVILLE

SWEETWATER

INDIAN BOUNDARY CAMPGROUND

Just off the scenic Skyway on Forest Service Road 345. Offering 100 campsites as well as day use picnicking, swimming and biking. Open April - November. Reservations are recommended. Call toll free at 877.444.6777.

TURKEY CREEK OVERLOOK

2,630 ft.

OOSTERNECK CREEK

1,045 ft.

Overlook and boating takeout on the Tellico River. When the water is up, the Tellico River, with its Class III, IV, V rapids, is quite a challenge for canoeists and kayakers.

INFORMATION STATION Bulletin board welcomes visitors with general information about the Skyway and Tellico Ranger District.

TELLICO RIVER

950 ft.

The Tellico River is famous for its world class trout fishing.

Overlook with 3 picnic tables and restroom. Beautiful view from the Appalachians over the Tennessee River Valley. Tellico Plains can be seen the distance.

LAKE VIEW

3,360 ft.

BALD RIVER FALLS

PHEASANT FIELDS

Located on Forest Service Road 210, you can view Bald River Falls without leaving your car as water cascades over 100 feet onto the rocks below. Further along the road, you may be interested in visiting the state-operated trout hatchery and Pheasant Fields Rearing Pools.

A perfect place to enjoy distant views of Tellico Lake. This lake was created from TVA dams of the Little Tennessee River.

3,750 ft

Overlooking Sassagras Ridge and other major ridges running south down to the Tellico River.

Opened and dedicated in 1996, the Cherohala Skyway is a National Scenic Byway crossing through the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee and the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. The Skyway is a wide, two-lane road connecting Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina, and has elevations ranging from 900 feet to over 5,400 feet above sea level. Enjoy 40+ miles of scenic views, and be sure to stop at one of the many attractions and destinations along the way!

JOYCE

KILMER MEMORIAL FOREST

In 1936, an extraordinary 3,800 acres of “one of the few remaining tracts of virgin hardwood in the Appalachians” was set aside as a memorial forest in honor of Joyce Kilmer. A 2-mile loop trail winds beneath the towering trees and through a forest carpeted by a rich variety of wildflowers, ferns and moss-covered logs from the fallen giants.

STRATTON RIDGE

4,420 ft

This is a perfect place to stretch, enjoy a picnic lunch (5 tables) and a restroom facility. A bulletin board provides additional information about the Skyway.

Take a leisurely stroll (about 3/10th of a mile) along an easy grade through hardwood forest to a fabulous vista overlooking the byway and a seemingly endless range of mountains. The trail is accessible for the physically challenged, and two picnic tables are easily accessed from the parking lot. OBADIAH

3,740 ft.

Listen carefully to the sound of Santeetlah Creek far below while enjoying the mountain vista offered at this scenic overlook.

HORSE COVE CAMPGROUND

HOOPER COVE

3,100 ft.

Reservations required through Cheoah Ranger Station.

SANTEETLAH

5,390 ft

Over a mile high in elevation, enjoy a picnic (3 tables) at the highest overlook along the skyway.

HOOPER BALD TRAIL

5,290 ft.

quarter-mile hike leads to Hooper Bald, near the site the old hunting preserve, where many exotic species, including the Russian boar, were imported by George Moore in 1908. An information board, restrooms and two picnic tables are easily accessed from the parking lot.

Cherokee National Forest

The Cherokee National Forest is Tennessee’s only National Forest and comprises 1/3 of Monroe County. With such distinction and acreage, it’s no wonder Cherokee is the destination for outdoor recreation in East Tennessee. Enjoy a scenic drive, with beauty and wonder aplenty during any season, hike the many trails for a more close-up experience with nature or get in touch with your wild side with a kayaking experience.

RATTLER FORD GROUP CAMPGROUND

This open area with a view into the Santeetlah Creek drainage offers a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, 4 tables.

SHUTE COVE

3,550 ft.

SANTEETLAH GAP

2,660 ft.

A park bulletin board with information.

A quiet picnic can be enjoyed at the one table available at this pullover. A few steps to the small wooden platform presents a beautiful view into the valley below.

The Tellico Ranger District contains 123,372 acres in Monroe County with its highest peak, Haw Knob, reaching 5,472 feet above sea level.

To Robbinsville and the Cheoah Ranger Station

MONROE HAPPENINGS

CARNIVAL AT THE PARK

SPRING BARN SALE 2025

April 5th

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Grain Bin Commodities

Join us for an amazing day of shopping, baked goods, and fun in the countryside!

www.grainbincommodities.com

May 3rd

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Downtown Tellico Village

With over 100 vendors, this is a funoutdoor event you do not want to miss! Come enjoy our handcrafted item vendors, fishing vendors, food vendors (including trout), art show, kid’s activities, live music, and more!

VisitMonroeTN.com/tellico-trout-festival

MONROE RODEO

May 30th & 31st

Monroe County Fairgrounds Madisonville, TN

The mission of the Monroe Rodeo is to spearhead a community-driven initiative aimed at raising funds for the development of the Monroe County Fairgrounds.

www.visitmonroetn.com/monroerodeo

May 2nd and 3rd Historic Downtown Sweetwater

Join us in Historic Downtown Sweetwater May 2nd from 12-8 and May 3rd from 7-6 for the popular Blooms, Bluegrass and BBQ Festival! Enjoy live bluegrass performances both days, a kids zone, BBQ that will satisfy all of your taste buds, beautiful blooming topiaries throughout downtown & LOTS of vendors! The carnival returns this year and be sure to stay tuned for a schedule of events, more information on our bluegrass performers and other exciting announcements. Event admission is free!

BloomsBluegrassBBQ.com

April 26th

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tellico Community Center

There will be a ramp meal and vendors. Bring the family and have a great time. Admission to the festival and parking is free.

Facebook.com/ballplay.ruritan.club

TELLICO TROUT FESTIVAL

GATLINBURG

GATLINBURG SPRINGFEST

March 1st through May 31st Throughout Gatlinburg

Springtime in Smokies is a season like no other. Mother Nature shines bright as tapestries of vibrant wildflowers blanket over 800 miles of trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and natural beauty blooms throughout downtown Gatlinburg. To celebrate the splendor of Spring, Gatlinburg businesses come alive with décor, adding a bit of their own unique flair to the season.

www.gatlinburg.com

CHURCH OF GOD SMOKY MOUNTAIN KID FEST

May 1st - 4th

234 Airport Road

Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Kidfest is a weekend retreat type of event for children. Services contain age appropriate ministry utilizing some of the latest and greatest as well as tried and true ministry methods.

www.cogtnyouth.org/kidfest

SMOKY MOUNTAIN BIGFOOT CONFERENCE

July 26th

Gatlinburg Convention Center 234 Historic Nature Trail Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Get ready for the 7th annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference, where we have the privilege of bringing you an incredible event supported by our amazing sponsors! This conference is not just for Bigfoot enthusiasts, but for anyone who wants to believe. Join us as we take you on a journey to unravel the mysteries of Bigfoot.

www.gatherupevents.com/smokymountain-bigfoot-conference/

GATLINBURG FARMERS MARKET

May 17th through October 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. 1222 East Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Offering local choices for healthy mountain living, the Farmers Market is open each Saturday across from Food City. Comprised of local producers, the emphasis is on fresh produce and homemade product offered in an atmosphere of community.

GatlinburgFarmersMarket.com

SPRING WILDFLOWER PILGRIMAGE

April 23rd - 26th

The 75th Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is an annual four-day event in Great Smoky Mountains National Park consisting of a variety of wildflower, fauna, and natural history walks, motorcades, photographic tours, art classes, and indoor seminars.

HANDS ON GATLINBURG

May 2nd through May 4th Gatlinburg, TN

This immersive three-day experience allows you to learn from The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community which is home to the largest group of independent artisans in North America. These professional craftsmen have spent years and even decades perfecting their art. Now, you can learn from them and become a pro yourself!

Gatlinburg.com/handsongatlinburg

CHALK THE PLAZA

May 31st

1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

101 N Campbell Station Rd Farragut, TN 37934

Join us for Chalk the Plaza, a celebration of creativity, community, and fun! Enjoy delicious bites from food trucks, browse unique pieces from local art vendors, and let the little ones have a blast in the kids’ zone— all while watching talented artists transform the sidewalks into stunning masterpieces. Our mini art market and food trucks will be available from 1pm-6pm, while our artists are hard at work.

VisitFarragut.org/events

May 10th

8 a.m.

11730 Turkey Creek Road Farragut, TN 37934

For more than 30 years, Anchor Park has hosted the Bob Watt Youth Fishing Rodeo, a popular spring event. Kids fish and compete for prizes in a number of categories. Two sessions will be held this year. Stay tuned for more details.

VisitFarragut.org/events

KNOXVILLE

TUESDAY TRIVIA

Every Tuesday 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Xul Beer Company Downtown 213 East 5th Avenue Knoxville, TN 37917

Join us at Xul Beer Co for trivia every Tuesday at 7 pm hosted by Not Rocket Science Trivia. Gift card prizes are awarded to the top three teams every week and we will have rotating food trucks available every Tuesday. Cheers!

www.xulbeer.com

FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK

First Friday of Each Month

5 p.m.

Downtown Knoxville

Explore galleries, studios, and artist collectives; roam through shops hosting open houses and local artist exhibits; enjoy performance art and live music in the streets and a variety of venues; drop in restaurants along the way and treat yourself to drinks and great food.

BOB WATT FISHING RODEO

DOGWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL

April 25th through 27th

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

World’s Fair Park 963 Worlds Fair Park Drive Knoxville, TN 37916

Established in 1961, the Dogwood Arts Festival is one of the most celebrated cultural events in Knoxville! The festival is held on the beautifully redesigned Performance Lawn at World’s Fair Park and features over 100 fine art vendors, live music, entertainment, children’s activities, food & beverage vendors, and more.

DogwoodArts.com/dogwoodartsfestival

FREE FAMILY NIGHT AT MUSE KNOXVILLE

Last Friday of Each Month

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Chilhowee Park

On the 4th Friday of each month from 5 - 7 PM, Muse Knoxville in Chilhowee Park is open FREE to the public. Come connect with community and make new discoveries in our museum.

www.themuseknoxville.org

THE VESTIVAL

May 10th

201 Ogle Ave. Knoxville, TN 37920

Vestival 2025, an annual, family-friendly celebration of the arts & heritage of Vestal and South Knoxville. Second Saturday South on May 10, 2025. Featuring several venues of live performances, craft booths, art exhibits, fabric exchange, and a free Mother’s Day Brunch.

www.candoromarble.org

FORGE

MEMORIAL DAY POOL PARTY

May 24th

Pigeon Forge Community Center

Celebrate the unofficial kickoff to summer at the Community Center over Memorial Day weekend! Enjoy the outdoor pool, as well as slides and splash pads.

www.mypigeonforge.com

FLOWER & FOOD FESTIVAL

April 18th through June 8th

Dollywood, Pigeon Forge

Dollywood.com

BLOOMIN’ BBQ FESTIVAL

May 16th - 17th

Downtown Sevierville

www.bloominbbq.com

TENNESSEE SENIOR MEN’S OPEN

June 9h through 10th 7:30 a.m.

Stonehenge Golf Course at Fairfield Glade

Tennessee Senior Open starts June 9th. Registration is currenly open with a max number of 126 players. The tournament will be crowned around 5:30 on Tuesday evening.

FairfieldGladeResort.com

PIGEON

CROSSVILLE

MCMINN

SWEETWATER SPRINGS WESTERN AIRSOFT EXPERIENCE

May 16th - 18th

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sweetwater Airsoft - The Body Farm 544 County Road 275 Niota, TN

Come out to the town of Sweetwater springs for a unique western Airsoft experience! Full of train heists, bank robberies, jail breaks and moonshine runs!Choose to loot the town of their hard earned way of life, or choose to defend your way of living, whatever you choose there’s plenty to do in the not so quiet town of Sweetwater Springs!

CINCO-DE-BIKEO 2025

April 24th - 27th

Adventures Unlimited 522 U.S. 64 Ocoee, TN 37361

https://adventuresunlimited.net

KIDS

ART CAMP 2025

Camp 1: June 2nd - 6th

Camp 2: June 9th - 13th

The Arts Center

320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303

Registration Deadline: May 19th

AACA’s 28th annual arts camp for grades K-6 is for students who will have completed the grade in the 2024-25 school year. There are daily classes in art, music, drama, and dance. The beloved summer camp led by Kay Frank and Lisa Sharp is a great introduction to the arts in a week full of fun for newbies and practiced performers alike.

All supplies are furnished, and campers are asked to bring their own lunch each day.

Both camps are held at The Arts Center 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Monday - Friday, ending with a performance on Friday at 1:00 PM The Arts Center.

AthensArtsCouncil.org/upcomingevents

EXPOSURE

April 4th through May 30th

The Arts Center

320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303

Annual Photography Competition open to all ages and experience levels!

AthensArtsCouncil.org/upcomingevents

90’S PROM NIGHT

May 9th

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

The Arts Center

320 North White Street

Athens, TN, 37303

Part concert, part dance; all party. This evening is all that and a bag of chips with fun for wallflowers and dancing queens alike.

Tickets include catered hors d’oeuvres and access to a cash bar.

AthensArtsCouncil.org/upcomingevents

COCKTAILS

WEDNESDAY TUESDAY

THURSDAY

TGI FRIDAY

CHEF’S DINNER

SPECIAL

F R O G & TOD D

Gems

Overhill Histories Lecture Series

Discover The Rich History of the Tennessee Overhill Region!

Join us for an engaging lecture series exploring the stories, people, and events that shaped our area. Each Month, a new topic brings history to life in the historic Gem Theater.

DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 LECTURE BEGINS AT 7:00 FREE ADMISSION

GEM THEATER, 700 TENNESSEE AVENUE, ETOWAH, TENNESSEE FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL: 423-262-7232

MAY 22ND

The American Black Bear in Appalachia

By Gerald Hodge

JUNE 5TH

The Scopes's Trials Forgotten Man Legacy of Walter White by Jacob Smith

JULY 10TH

Life of Sequoyah

Presented by Charlie Rhodarmer

AUGUST 7TH

Life and Legacy of Harry T. Burn by Tyler Boyd

SEPTEMBER 4TH

Madoc Legend/Bat Creek Stone by Sheriff Joe Guy

OCTOBER 2ND

Sam Houston and the Jolly Island

Presented by Charlie Rhodarmer

NOVEMBER 3RD

Jack Walker Murder

Presented by Sheriff Joe Guy