We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.
GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Your hospital. Your providers. Your healthcare partner.
Honoring a legacy of excellence with a vision for the future.
Hamilton Health Care System is proud to be a part of the future of healthcare in Cleveland, Bradley County, and the surrounding communities with the completion of the recent Tennova Healthcare – Cleveland purchase. We are here to serve and support the community and the many great things happening here. As part of this new vision for the future, the hospital is being renamed for the community it serves – Bradley Medical Center. And, as one fully integrated, comprehensive network of providers, Hamilton Health Care System is being rebranded as Vitruvian Health. Together, we will honor a legacy of excellence with a vision for the future. Thank you for the privilege to serve you!
Gò0 dNews from the Pastor’s
Seasons
by Bruce Sloan
The changing of seasons is a part of our local natural beauty. It is normal for us to enjoy one season over another. However, each season is important to the care of God’s wonderful creation. The autumn winds help trees remove their colorful leaves. This prepares a warm quilt for the small insects and animals on the ground. Busy squirrels are burying nuts that will create a future forest. The birds that stay have scouted out their winter home. And our cats and dogs have added some extra fur.
As the cooler weather arrives we “put our garden to bed.” It is a time to prune flowers and trees. We mulch the planting area and gather seeds for the spring. Garden tools are cleaned and stored. Our vision has now turned to how the new growth will appear after winter. The Bible shares “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease” (Genesis 8:22 KJV). In the summer, there is a time called “laid by.” It is the days that the farmer lets the crop mature for harvest. In years gone by, it was the time for the summer church revival with dinner on the grounds.
by” times and “putting the garden to rest” that we are able to settle our spirit. We are not to be anxious or fearful. It does not come naturally, but with a purposeful walk and rest with Jesus, those desires of our hearts are met. God said to Moses, “and He said, my presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest”(Exodus 33:14 KJV).
God has created times for rest in nature and for us. God began by creating a day of rest. “And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.” (Genesis 2:2 KJV). The Psalmist wrote “My soul finds rest in God alone” (see Psalm 62:1). Often what we are missing is a balance of spiritual rest in our lives. All around us, nature is settling down for rest and we are running full speed ahead.
Our culture cleverly disguises false rest for real rest. And in real rest, we are able to listen to God and to have a spiritual renewal. Jesus worshiped and prayed with others, but He also went to be alone with God. It is in those “laid
Safely protected in our automobiles and homes in a preset 72 degree environment, we sometimes miss the real beauty of the seasons. There is the occasional observance of the beautiful leaves or maybe the wind blowing our hair as we cross a parking lot. We are amazed that Christmas is coming so soon or the year has gone too fast. We are held captive by our sense of being so busy that even our minds can not find rest at night.
In the midst of meeting the many needs of His followers, Jesus, “often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (see Luke 5:16). The Good Shepherd knew when to stop and rest. And may you also learn the spiritual work of resting in Christ.
Bruce Sloan is the pastor of Ridgeview Baptist Church in Brainerd. He has served international congregations throughout the world. He is a graduate of the University of the South in Sewanee.
Full Entertainment Schedule All Weekend!
• APPLE BLOSSOM PAGEANT
• APPLE DESSERT CONTEST SPONSORED BY APPLE VALLEY ORCHARDS
• FREE KIDSZONE ACTIVITIES WITH PAID ADMISSION
Festival Hours:
Saturday, October 15 10am - 6pm Sunday, October 16 1pm - 6pm
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 10:00AM - 6:00PM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20 1:00PM - 6:00PM Daily Admission:
$7 • Ages 12 & Older
$5 • Seniors & Children
FREE • Children Under 3
$8 - ADULTS (AGES 12 & UP)
$5 - SENIORS & CHILDREN
$25 • Family Day Pass (2 Adults & Up To 4 Children) Hours
FREE - CHILDREN UNDER 3
$25 - FAMILY DAY PASS (2 ADULTS AND UP TO 4 CHILDREN)
With the transition of seasons from summer to fall this month, we begin to prepare for cooler temps, shorter days, and the beauty of change as trees shift from greens to oranges, yellows, and reds. This time of change in nature is a great reminder that change might also be needed in our season of retirement. Enter the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
AEP runs from October 15th to December 7th of each year and offers Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to review their current coverage. This is a time to reevaluate your healthcare coverage needs, see if adjustments need to be made, make sure you are optimizing benefits available to you, and make educated, informed decisions that will impact both your health and finances in the upcoming year.
Many Medicare Advantage and Part D (prescription drug) plans update their benefits, coverage options, and costs at this time. This can have an impact on your outof-pocket expenses and the inclusion of your doctors in certain networks. Have you had changes to your health in the past year? Maybe you will need to start seeing a new doctor or specialist or begin a new medication. A plan that has been working for you might not be the best option in the new year due to plan updates.
While we all know that Medicare and healthcare go hand in hand, sometimes we don’t realize that Medicare is also a piece of our retirement plan as well. Expenses associated with your healthcare are directly tied to your financial plan and income needs during retirement. Bridging a healthcare gap between retirement and Medicare eligibility age requires planning. Budgeting
for co-pays and prescription drug costs associated with Medicare plans factor into your overall retirement income need. As you assess your coverage needs during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, it may also be a good time to review your overall financial and retirement plan as well. Hughes Retirement Group started out taking care of the Medicare needs of our community. Throughout this journey, we realized the tie between Medicare and financial planning. This led to the growth of our business to include both areas so we could help ensure our community had all the knowledge needed to make not only informed but educated decisions for all of their retirement needs.
Please keep in mind during this time of year, there are a ton of scam calls to people who are Medicare-age. Never give anyone your Medicare number online and always be sure you know exactly who you are talking to and what they are offering. Contacting a local agent is always the better option to ensure your doctors and hospitals remain part of any new plan that you may be considering. We currently represent all major carriers for Medicare Plans and can help you choose the best option for you. If there is any doubt or question that you have during this election period, please feel free to reach out to Hughes Retirement Group.
Retirement planning is the process of determining how you can meet your goals through the proper management of your financial resources.
Tax planning should not only assess your tax situation at retirement and in the present, but also look towards the future.
Social security strategies are various approaches that an individual may take to maximize their social security benefits.
There is more to Medicare than meets the eye. Making the best decision for your situation at age 65 is one of the biggest retirement decisions one may make.
Estate planning is a key element of a successful financial strategy. It ensures you will leave a legacy that provides for your loved ones by properly protecting and distributing your wealth according to your wishes.
If you're ready to take the next step in your retirement planning journey, call (423) 664-4203 today to explore your
dNews for Men
Two Prophetic Memories: John 2
by Jonathon Wright
Jesus Turns Water Into Wine
There are two prophetic memories in this chapter that John wanted to share with the world. First, there is the story of Jesus turning water into wine. This was special because it saved a family the embarrassment and expense of having to call off a wedding. If the groom could not pay for a proper wedding, what were the chances he could take care of his wife? I can see the bride's family not wanting to give their daughter to him because of it. But this miracle did more than save a marriage. It was the first of many signs that Jesus did in Cana and then throughout the rest of Galilee. And “his disciples believed in Him” (John 2:11).
In John 1:43, Philip told Nathanael they had found the One that Moses spoke of. Jesus turning water into wine further solidified what they already knew to be true about Him. He was the prophet that Moses spoke of. This miracle bears a striking similarity to Moses and his early days in ministry.
In Exodus 4:1-9, Moses gave the people three major signs to show that God had sent him to set them free. The last one involved him pouring water from the Nile onto the ground. The people watched in amazement as it changed into blood. Jesus turned water into wine, however, the similarities later in Christ's life would go even further. Moses parted the Red Sea and Jesus walked on the water. Both of them did some amazing things with water that validated their divine call and mission. There are many connections between them as the story in John's Gospel develops. I encourage you to keep reading the Gospel of John.
The Messiah Visits The Temple
Jesus and His disciples went to the Temple to find a quiet place to seek God and pray. Every year since He was a small boy, Jesus loved going to the Temple (see Luke 2:41-51). But on this day, as Jesus entered the Temple area, He saw men selling sheep, doves, and cattle. The noise was more than He could stand. That may have been okay if they
were not selling them for way too much. This price gouging outraged Jesus. “You have made my Father's house a den of thieves” (see Matthew 21:12-13). Jesus took a whip and ran them out of the Temple. Those selling doves wanted to know what gave him the right to do these things.
The disciples watched as their master spoke some very strange words. “Destroy this Temple, and I will raise it up in three days” (see John 2:19-20). The Jews scoffed as they heard him say these things. The idea was ludicrous. It took 46 years to remodel this Temple, and He was going to raise it in three days. They were astonished!
Many Jews saw Jesus as a threat to their way of life. Yet, John wanted to give them this story of Jesus being zealous for God and the Temple. It reminded him of David, the great King of Israel from whom the Messiah would come (see Psalms 69:90. The chapter ends with Jesus doing many signs in Jerusalem that caused people to believe in Him. The disciples never forgot this strange conversation. Much later, they realized that Christ was talking about His death and resurrection. They also came to understand that His whole life was a prophetic sign, a sign that validated He was God's Son sent to save the world.
*All Scriptures are NJKV.
Rest Well, My Friend
by Kristen West
Ijust couldn’t use it anymore. It was too fragile. The cover was tattered, pages had fallen out, and the binding had collapsed more than a decade ago.
It was my first Bible, given to me by my grandmother in 1986 when I initially became a Christ-follower. I remember my sheer joy when I first received it. Its pages were crisp; some didn’t want to separate quickly. It smelled of leather and that delightful “new book” smell that, as an author, I just love so much.
I treasured it immediately and carried it with me everywhere. It rode shotgun in my car with me so I had immediate access to it (remember, this was before the days of smartphones when Bible verses were available at our fingertips through a variety of apps or simply by asking Google what John 3:16 says). As a hungry newborn believer, I read it voraciously (even though much of what I read I didn’t understand).
Now, laying it to rest in the drawer of my nightstand felt like a burial of sorts. It was so final.
This prized book had walked through three decades of life with me. We’d navigated so many seasons side-by-
side. It looked like it had come through war because it had. I cherished it as the invaluable weapon I knew it to be when I enlisted so many years ago to fight the good fight of faith (see I Timothy 6:12). It proved a trusted companion through countless battles, untold sleepless nights, and many mountain-top victories. It had offered me encouragement and help when I was a clueless, young mother who had no idea how to boil an egg much less raise a newborn. It was by my side as I navigated the pain of betrayal and the excruciating heartbreak of divorce. Its contents comforted me when I questioned my worth and felt alone, unloved, and unseen as a single mother. After remarrying, its pages caught my tears as I struggled to know how to blend a family. And time after time, when I felt like giving up, it steadied my steps and strengthened me. When I didn’t know which way to go, its words offered me clarity and direction. When darkness and discouragement pressed in on every side, its truths faithfully whispered words of renewed hope.
I had never treasured a book more. I smiled as I closed the drawer.
Rest well, my old friend – you have equipped, trained, challenged, and inspired me more than I could ever have thought or dreamed possible!
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 CSB).
“Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105 CSB).
Others Awareness
by Sheneka Land
The call came two weeks after the funeral of one of the kindest men I have ever known. “I’ll never be able to forgive them” was the first complete sentence I heard. I felt the burden of empathy as this new widow poured out her grief. I heard anger, extreme disappointment, and inextricable loss.
The brokenhearted wife and her children had been deprived of the last moments of their loved-one’s life by a man and his wife who appeared to express no respect for the sacred space where they overstayed their welcome. “He did the same thing in my husband’s death that he did throughout their years of relationship…he talked about himself and his opinions. He sat there as my husband lay dying, praising himself as a good friend instead of thanking my husband for his unconditional friendship through the years. As usual, every word was all about him…and his wife just sat there with no perception that they needed to leave so those who loved my husband best could be with him in his last moments. We did have words of love and appreciation to express, but he died moments after they left. How could they be so ignorant?! And why didn’t I just ask them to leave instead of concerning myself with being rude? He had certainly been rude to my husband throughout the years, cutting him to shreds with hateful sarcasm. When my husband would insinuate that his comments were hurtful, he would gaslight him with the old elbow nudge, saying, ‘Can’t you take a joke?’ He was anything but a good friend. He hurt my husband not only personally, but attacked him professionally in the early years as well. My husband forgave him repeatedly for bad behavior he never even acknowledged.”
As I listened to the outpouring from the widow’s heart, I connected with her, feeling frustration at the narcissism she had to experience at such a vulnerable time. Indicative of narcissism, an individual becomes so enamored with self that they fail to realize that relationships are mutual and reciprocal. They only perceive relationships based on their feelings, wants, and needs. The person is always surprised when family intimacy and friendships repeatedly crumble, never realizing they are the common link to failed relationships. Multiple divorces? Church drama? Workplace troubles? The narcissist perceives they are the
ones repeatedly mistreated without consideration that just maybe they are the ones doing the mistreating. They simply lack “others awareness.”
In our humanity, each of us is naturally turned to our own way. So, how might we guard against wounding and scarring others through narcissistic behavior? Romans 12:3 instructs us not to think too highly of ourselves and to think
of ourselves with sober judgment. How might we find this sober judgment? One sure way is through accountability which involves truth-telling from trusted others who are willing to be honest in their impressions of us. Rarely do others perceive us as we perceive ourselves.
I recently heard someone say, “The truth will not harm, but it will hurt.” Facing truth is painful, but it can make us into better people as we learn discernment in how to relate well to others. I pray that each of us will have enough courage to investigate the deeper reasons that cause us to wound others through one-sided interactions.
Perhaps we will provide redemptive healing through apology and changed behavior as we practice “others awareness.” Hopefully, we become capable of planting healing words into the hearts of those we have wounded, so they can bloom again. Then, we can enjoy the sweet fragrance of a well-tended relationship garden. How can we begin today so the blooming can begin?
Sheneka Land and her husband, Jon, live in Cleveland, Tennessee. She earned an MDiv from Pentecostal Theological Seminary in Cleveland, Tennessee, and serves as lead chaplain at CHI Memorial Hospital in Hixson, Tennessee.
Gò0 dNews Ministry Spotlight
early
Doors Open At 6:00PM
Judgment Day
MCLEVELAND MIDDLE SCHOOL
atthew 7:15 tells us in the last days to “beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing.” In today’s society, there are a lot of people who call themselves Christians, but they bear fruit that would suggest otherwise. They could even be in areas of leadership. From the outside, it looks like everything is ok, but if you had the chance to go behind closed doors you might see something different.
Georgetown RD NW, Cleveland, TN
This year, the Judgment Day play is going to pull back the curtain and let you see what’s happening behind closed doors at Pastor Ray Stubblefield’s church. Pastor Stubblefield puts on a great front, but he and his leaders could be described as wolves in sheep’s clothes. Even among wolves, God always seems to have a remnant that will stand for what is right. You’re about to find out what happens when a group of fearless ladies discover the truth and confront it head-on.
How do they handle it? Come and find out when Judgment Day Volume 3 takes over Cleveland Middle School. October 28th - 31st.
Matthew 7:15
“This is a fictional story showing how Biblical principles interact with what’s happening today. God has called our team to preach the gospel from a different pulpit, the stage. So come ready to receive a transforming word. Bring your unsaved loved ones and friends. Our sincere desire and prayer is that through our theatrical production, God might speak to them and that His desire for ‘all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth’ (1 Timothy 2:4) would be revealed. That’s why we do what we do!”
More Information And Tickets Scan QR Code!
Judgment Day Creator Bud Kinches explains. “We’re so excited to be back for our third year with an exciting new show that promises to be our best yet. It’s different from what we’ve done in the last two years; so come out and see what’s new. The doors will open each night at 6 pm. As always, we will have our merch table set up with free Judgment Day coffee samples. You can try it before you buy it! We will also have other vendors for you to shop. Come early, get your seats, and then go shopping! The show starts at 7pm.
As always, tickets are free. Bud adds, “But we do ask that everyone gets a ticket to help us—as seating is limited. For more information and to get your free tickets head over to: jdareyouready.com/volume 3 or simply scan the QR code. We can’t wait to see you again this year!” Judgment Day is coming! Are you ready?
OCTOBER 28 - 31
TWENTY TWENTY-FOUR
All Shows Start At 7:00PM Doors Open At 6:00PM
Come early to shop Judgment Day merch and other vendors. Free samples of Judgment Day coffee will be available.
CLEVELAND MIDDLE SCHOOL
3635 Georgetown RD NW, Cleveland, TN
"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves" Matthew 7:15 Judgment Day Is Back With A Brand New Show!
*WARNING: Strobe Lighting & Other Intense Lighting WIll Be Used During The Show. It Will Not Be Safe For Those Who Are Sensitive To Light.
For More Information And Free Tickets Scan QR Code!
Judgment Day Is Sponsored By:
An Empty Nest and an Empty Heart
by Lori McAfee
When the laundry basket isn’t overflowing and the house is quieter, it’s not just an empty nest—it can feel like an empty heart. This transition period can be challenging for many of us, as we grapple with the new silence and space that fills our homes. For years, our identities were intertwined with the hustle and bustle of raising children. Now, with the kids gone, we might find ourselves struggling to navigate this new phase of life.
I can remember crying myself to sleep many nights when my girls were no longer under my roof every night.
I kept thinking this is crazy, I know better, people will think I’ve lost my mind, what am I going to do now? The house was quiet, the rooms were clean, and I had more time on my hands. But my heart? It had holes and nothing to fill it either, at least that’s how I felt. The truth is I knew what scripture said about our children and I believed it but knowing it wasn’t working for me. This was until I realized, which took me a long time, that, empty hands and a holely heart are the devil’s playground in wasted-life-land. And I wanted NO part of Satan or the wasteland.
So, you are not alone friend. The feelings of loss and confusion are natural, but I want you to know there is hope. This is a time to get to know yourself and find out who you are beyond being a parent. It's a season of self-examination, a season that can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and true enjoyment during this next chapter.
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing,” such a beautiful image offered to us in Zephaniah 3:17 NIV. This scripture reminds us that even in the quietness, God is present and rejoices over us. The stillness of an empty nest is not something to fear but to welcome. It is in this stillness that we can feel God's love more profoundly and understand His delight in us. The noise and chaos of raising children often drown out our inner voices and the whispers of the Holy Spirit. Now,
in the quiet, we have the opportunity to listen, to reflect, and to grow. This is a time to be still and to know that God is with us, guiding us every step of the way through this new chapter.
And for that wasteland, Isaiah 43:19 NIV says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” This verse speaks to the new beginnings and the unexpected paths that God creates for us. When we feel like our hearts are empty and our reason for existence is lost, we can trust that God is making a way for us, even in the most barren seasons.
Raising children is an all-consuming task that can sometimes leave us feeling like we’ve lost our identity. Remember, I didn’t just feel this way. I actually tossed mine out in the diaper season, two times, ten years apart. Our days were filled with taking care of others, leaving little time for self-care and personal growth. Now, with the kids gone, there’s a void that can feel overwhelming. But remember, this is an opportunity for us to rediscover who we truly are and what we are passionate about.
Ephesians 2:10 NIV reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This verse encourages us to see ourselves as God’s masterpiece, with a purpose that extends far beyond our roles as parents. He has good works prepared for us that are fulfilling and meaningful.
This period of transition is not the end but a new beginning. We can take up hobbies we once loved, learn new skills, and even take a leap of faith on a new career path. The possibilities are endless when we open ourselves up to God’s plan for us.
As you navigate the empty nest season, remember that this is a time for rediscovery and renewal. Embrace the silence, trust in God’s plan, and take proactive steps to invest in deepening your faith and in yourself. You are not alone on this journey. Reach out for support, and let’s walk this path together, finding new meaning and joy in the chapters ahead. Remember the best is yet to come!
Burning Hope, is a certified life coach, speaker, and host of the Get Your Rear In Gear. For more www.lorimcafeecoaching.com.
Apple Valley Orchard: From Our Family Orchard to Your Family Table
What could be better for the autumn season than a fun-filled visit to Apple Valley Orchard in South Cleveland, TN? There you’ll find a wide selection of fresh apples, warm baked goods, and delicious apple cider.
The Apple Valley Orchard’s cider mill is a rare gem these days among orchards, as Tennessee has very few local, fresh cider mills currently in operation. A quick Google search shows you’d have to drive a couple of hours away from the Cleveland area to find this liquid gold.
How are they able to bring all of this to fruition? A great team, no doubt! Owner Chuck McSpadden gives credit where it is due, “At Apple Valley Orchard, we have a wonderful staff who helps us create a family-friendly atmosphere at the store. It is because of them that those who visit us feel welcome and want to return each season.”
Two to Tons
The son of the original owner, Chuck McSpadden, shares how it all began, “During the early sixties my dad
planted two apple trees in the backyard. As time went on, he set more and eventually we had approximately forty trees. My mom saw how much he enjoyed his new hobby and suggested he plant more trees. She was thinking about forty more trees, but Dad brought home four hundred more! Today the orchard has approximately 15,000 trees.
“Our harvest season runs July through October and each month has different varieties of apples to harvest. A list of all our apples and when they normally ripen is on our website (applevalleyorchard.com), but I recommend giving us a call ahead of time to see what we have in stock.
Each apple variety is harvested as they ripen.”
Fifty Years of Harvesting Success
From 1972 to 2024, the McSpaddens and their team harvested a variety of apples and loads of happiness from this versatile fruit. McSpadden shares the most significant steps, “We installed a cider mill in 1978. Then, in 1987, we built a new apple house complete with a bakery. In 1996, a new strain of the Gala apple was discovered in our
orchard, and we named this new strain the “Caitlin Gala” after my daughter. In 2001 we enlarged the sales floor of the apple house, and added on a picnic pavilion.”
Why would the Apple Valley Orchard need to enlarge or add a pavilion? McSpadden explains, “One of our favorite fall activities is hosting the schools that come to visit. We host school trips daily from early September through late October. The school groups cycle through four stations. They go on the trailer ride, they learn how we take care of our trees, they hear the Johnny Appleseed story, and they visit our packing house and cider room. At the end of the tour, we provide an apple and a cup of cider. For the school trips, reservations are required so make sure you plan ahead!
“We also offer wagon rides on the weekends at 2:00 pm and again at 4:00 pm throughout September and October (excluding the third weekend in October due to the local Apple Festival). Our wagon rides are twentyminute trailer rides through the orchard. Tickets can be purchased in the store.”
Taking Apples to Town
Each year during the third weekend in October, the Apple Valley Orchard crew participates in the Cleveland Apple Festival. This year it takes place on Saturday,
October 19th, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm and Sunday, October 20, 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm in historic downtown Cleveland, TN. The Cleveland Apple Festival is a 501(c)(3) public charity that donates all net proceeds to other non-profit organizations in the Cleveland, TN area.
Planting Seeds with Sights on the Future
Even though the orchard has been in operation for over fifty years, the McSpadden family has been able to keep up with current innovations and techniques. McSpadden explains, “We are constantly replanting and trying new and innovative techniques to improve crop production. With the way that technology is advancing, we have new options to try to better our orchard. With the consistent replanting of trees, we aim to keep up with the most efficient methods. For example, right now we are moving to a trellis system that will help in picking, insect control, and better support for the trees. The trellis system is a good investment into the property and life of the trees.
“Our children, Caitlin and Charlie, have always been around the apple orchard. They have grown up and seen each season and step it takes to grow and care for the orchard. Since finishing school, our children are becoming more active in the day-to-day operation of the business. They are looking forward to being part of the team that cares for the orchards they grew up around.”
Plan A Visit
Operating hours are Mondays through Saturdays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Sundays 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Visit the Orchard at 351 Weese Road SE, Cleveland, TN 37323, or call 423-472-3044. You can also find them online, through Facebook, or their website.
Gò0 dNews for your Taste Buds Harvest Moon Pumpkin Soup
Once upon a crisp October evening, a young chef named Lily was creating her traditional pumpkin soup recipe. Lily’s love for cooking had been passed down through generations. Her thoughts went back to her beloved grandmother Nana Mae. She remembered the stories of how their family would come together every October to harvest pumpkins. Her grandmother would cook a delicious but simple pumpkin soup using ingredients they had grown themselves. Nana Mae always believed in the magic of the harvest moon, claiming it made their pumpkins sweeter and their soups heartier.
With the soup simmering gently on the stove, Lily decided to set a beautiful table on her porch, under the soft glow of string lights. She invited her friends and neighbors to join her for an impromptu gathering, celebrating the flavors of fall and the bonds of friendship.
When the guests arrived, they were greeted by the enticing aroma. Lily shared the story of her Nana Mae and the significance of the harvest moon in their family’s traditions. The tale added an extra layer of warmth to the already cozy atmosphere.
Lily’s pumpkin soup once again brought friends and neighbors together, weaving a new chapter into the tapestry of their shared experiences, all while honoring the love and wisdom of generations past.
Ingredients
• 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 4 cups of pumpkin puree)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium-sized potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Prepare the Pumpkin:
• Cut the pumpkin into chunks, remove the seeds and skin.
• Steam or boil the pumpkin until it’s soft and can be easily pierced with a fork.
• Mash or puree the cooked pumpkin. You can use a blender or food processor for a smooth consistency.
Sauté Aromatics:
• In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
• Add the pumpkin puree and diced potato to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
• Sprinkle ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
Simmer:
• Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend:
• Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blend, and return it to the pot.
Add Coconut Milk:
• Stir in the coconut milk to add creaminess to the soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve:
• Serve warm. Experiment with garnishes such as roasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of coconut milk, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Words Matter
by Dorothy Teague
Words matter. They can heal or they can shatter. They can lift us up Or bring us to despair. Choke us, or give us air.
Death and life are upon our tongue. We can bless or curse. The choice is ours, It’s up to us.
Dorothy Teague is a Tennessee native, who resides in McMinn County with her husband, Lewis, on their farm. After
Tasteful Gatherings: Perfect For Your Perfect Days!
When you envision the perfect details for your special event, you need someone to come along side you to make that dream come true. The details can be overwhelming. The coordination can be daunting. The deadlines and deposits can be draining. You realize you are going to need help. That’s when you call Tasteful Gatherings.
Owner Dee Johnston explains, “Tasteful Gatherings is unrivaled in our ability to offer full-service boutique catering and event design. You have a dream, and our goal is to make your ideas become a reality. Our customizable menus and private tastings will guide you toward your perfect day. We will be with you every step of the way to take the pressure off and exceed your expectations!”
Since 2013, Tasteful Gatherings has been creating the environment for perfect days from the Cleveland area to the Knoxville area, namely for Chattanooga, Cleveland, Athens, Farragut, Loudon, Kingston, Maryville and Knoxville. Mrs. Johnston shares about their beginnings, ”We started from very humble beginnings, a very small client base and limited finances, but our team had a big dream that would drive us toward success!” Her team knows about big dreams and making dreams come true.
How does this team stay successful and trusted to bring about perfect days? Ms. Johnston explains their philosophy, “At Tasteful Gatherings, we believe you are the special ingredient! We focus on the idea that food is social, and we love being part of bringing people together.
Tasteful Gatherings is a full-service, award winning catering company that offers extraordinary design, taste and personal chef service for all types of occasions.
“We would love to bring our unique style to your next event. We’ve worked hard to create a food experience that celebrates all the beautiful bounty of the Southeast Region to bring your family and friends together and help make lasting memories. You can trust our catering team to bring all the care, attention and experience to you that such a special event deserves.
“Family owned and full-service, we listen to what you want and customize each event to surpass your expectations. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of service that complements our innovative cuisine. Whatever the occasion, from wedding receptions to formal corporate workshops, let Tasteful Gatherings take your next event to a whole new level.”
What if you aren’t needing the extra care Tasteful Gatherings offers but need help with decor and set up items to complement your own event preparations? Tasteful Gatherings can partner with you for rentals. Tasteful Gatherings provides event rental services to the Cleveland and the Chattanooga areas offering a large inventory of rental items and providing comprehensive customer service to all clients. Mrs. Johnston adds, “We can get virtually anything, any color for any occasion.” Call Tasteful Gatherings first for your rental needs.
For more information, see the website www. tastefulgatherings.com. You’ll find an array of information, photos, and helpful questionnaires to get your event launched toward perfection.
for Health & Fitness
Wrestling with Suffering
by Steven Knapp
As a Christian counselor, I am rarely far from the tension of believing in a God who is all-loving, allpowerful, and all-knowing while also seeing various forms of suffering in my office on a daily basis (to say nothing about the broader suffering in the world). Wrestling with these questions, which is called “theodicy,” is common not only for philosophers and theologians but any honest person who believes (or wants to believe) in this God in the face of the ever-present suffering. In the Genesis creation story, we see a God who calls His own creation “good” multiple times and desires to bless this creation, especially humanity. How did we end up with our current suffering from that starting place and what does it say about God?
The most obvious Christian answer is from the Genesis narrative, which shows us the sin of Adam and Eve brought suffering and death. This answer alone is often unsatisfactory to many people, myself included. Is this implying our suffering is a result of our personal sin? If so, John 9 demonstrates Jesus does not agree with this simple explanation. The disciples ask Jesus if a man’s blindness was a result of his sin or his parents’ sin. It is implied that the only explanation for his suffering was because of his personal sin, or at least the sin of his parents. Jesus disagrees and simply states it is so the works of God can be displayed in him (which does not exactly help directly answer theodicy questions). While our personal sin may sometimes be the cause of our suffering, it is clear this is not always the case.
So if our suffering is not always a result of our personal sin, who is responsible? How is it fair that we and others suffer when it is not our fault? Author Philip Yancey empathizes, “No matter how we rationalize, God will sometimes seem unfair from the perspective of a person trapped in time.”
The most comforting answer I have found regarding theodicy is a perspective from Tim Keller: “God does not ask us to do anything He has not already done, including engaging suffering.” Keller continues, “The idea that there is nothing in the human experience that God himself has not suffered, even losing a child, is sustaining.” God suffered the loss of perfect union with His creation when Adam and Eve sinned. He suffered in His attempts to love the Israelites
despite their frequent rebellion. Most prominently, Jesus suffered as a human. None of us can begin to comprehend how seriously the Christian God takes suffering because He willingly chose to engage it. And unlike us, God is innocent of the sin that is at least sometimes intertwined with our own suffering. The death that was promised for sin in the garden came to God’s own front door in the person of His
only Son. Counselor Diane Langberg writes, “He [Jesus] has been in the darkness. He has known the loss of all things. He has been abandoned by his Father. He has been to hell. There is no part of any tragedy that He has not known or carried. He has done this so that none of us need face tragedy alone because He has been there before us and will go with us.”
As Christians, we can have hope that Jesus has conquered suffering and death. Sometimes it comforts me more on this side of eternity to know that God intimately knows what it is like to suffer. I do not understand why children and other vulnerable people are abused or why natural disasters hit areas of the world already experiencing significant suffering. It does not seem there are simple answers to these questions. But I can believe and engage a God who shares in our suffering, and the presence of this God feels bigger than any logical argument that could be made. Rather than focusing on asking “why,” let us also create space to engage a God who is able to deeply empathize with any and every form of pain we experience.
Special Seasons of The Dash
by Lena Barber
Fall is special to me as I gear up for my annual punkin’ painting. It is significant because I started this tradition 35 years ago when I was very pregnant with our second daughter, Katie, who was born on November 25, 1987. This punkin’ painting had started out as a hobby but turned into a ritual we looked forward to sharing each year! Not being artistic in any way, this was the only time I would push to expand my abilities. Katie loved to challenge me to do a smiling winky face punkin’, a teacup punkin’, a British flag punkin’, a Pinocchio punkin’, and as her interests developed, so would the challenges! She always seemed excited about our accomplishments and enjoyed delivering them with me to folks who appreciated them, along with a short visit.
In this journey of grief, finding the significance in the dash (birth-death) is essential in furrowing through loss. Stepping forward in the journey each day provides the opportunity to meet some amazing folks on their own journeys. The process is captivating, unique, and surreal. Their stories provoke tears and shared stories. The ‘nugget’ of a quick camaraderie and the ability to communicate with others who have experienced deep grief is so comforting. I was afforded an opportunity to connect when I made my way to Green Acres last year to strike a potential deal for purchasing pumpkins at a discount in preparation for our monthly “Good Grief” session at North Cleveland Church
of God. I had the privilege of speaking with Terri Dillard. She shared her family’s losses of their son and daughter-inlaw, Dustin and Brittany, leaving them to raise their three grandsons. It was heart-wrenching but also heartwarming as she shared poignant and significant responses to their losses. The family is vital in dealing with loss as they fortify and unite to keep their precious memories alive. Since the deaths of Dustin and Brittany, a law has been signed to provide for the surviving parent or a guardian of a child who was a victim of vehicular homicide to convert a restitution order for child maintenance payments to a civil judgment at any time rather than following the conclusion of a defendant’s sentence. They have also begun a non-profit, the 24/7 Movement which is significant in the boys’ ages of 2, 4, and 7, and the provision of real solutions, awareness, education, advocacy, and partnerships 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their further hope is to inspire, motivate, and help others make good driving decisions.
The pumpkins they donated were not only used in “Good Grief” but there were enough left over to provide pumpkins for siblings and cousins of Olivia Weatherford, our hometown hero who battled cancer for too much of her childhood. The children showed a resilience provided by the influences from parents and grandparents that let them know they never have to grieve alone while pointing them to significance and purpose. It wasn’t hard to understand the need for purple and yellow ribbons as they decorated their punkins’ and freely spoke of their loss and fond memories shared.
I left each place touched, inspired, and grateful for the ability to find significance after loss. Whether it’s painting punkins’ with someone who has experienced a significant loss and letting them know they aren’t alone or beginning a non-profit in memory of a lost loved one to save other’s lives, there is significance in the dash!
About The Author
The Home That Awaits Me
by Maggie Possinger
Traveling is fun. Whether you’re visiting family, a national park, the beach, or a few museums, doing something outside your ordinary routine is refreshing. I always enjoy exploring new areas, and I’ve been fortunate enough to travel frequently throughout my life. However, a small part of me always likes the idea of a temporary stay. I can enjoy the bright lights of Nashville for a week, but to live there? I don’t think I’m cut out for all that traffic. I can rent a cabin in the middle of the Smoky Mountains, but to live there? I think I would go a little stir-crazy.
What I like about traveling is that it’s temporary; I can have these beautiful experiences, but then I get to return home to the place I’m familiar and comfortable with. In the fall of 2022, I would take my biggest trip yet: college. Lee University, located precisely 557 miles from my home in Maryland, wasn’t what I would consider a temporary trip. I would spend about eight months living in a different state for the next two and half years. It was a little daunting, but I was mostly excited.
While I grew up in a rural part of Maryland, being in the South was noticeably different. Waiting in check-out lines most likely means you’ll strike up a conversation with a stranger close to you. Passing smiles are sure to greet you wherever you go, and the South is probably the only place where strangers talk about Jesus in a Dollar General.
For the longest time, I didn’t accept Cleveland as my home.
If I had problems with my roommates, I’d tell myself, "It's okay. This isn’t your real home.”
When I couldn’t find a church I connected with, “It’s okay. This isn’t your real home.”
If I had to use a GPS to go somewhere simple, “It’s okay. This isn’t your real home.”
Being new to an area is difficult, especially when you so clearly do not fit in. I’ve had multiple people ask me where I’m from because they can hear that I’m not from around here. My lack of a southern drawl and perhaps my vocabulary, which is missing words such as “fixin,” “y’all,” “ain’t,” and “reckon,” are dead giveaways that I am not from the South.
I’ve spent a lot of time wrestling with the idea of where my physical home is, so much so that I’ve neglected my eternal home.
2 Corinthians 5:1-8 NLT depicts the longing we as Christians have for our heavenly home with Christ. Verse two says, “We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing.” In this passage of scripture, Paul tells us that home is not so much in heaven as it is with God. What makes heaven our eternal home is that we get to live with our Lord.
For too long, I have focused on where my earthly home lies instead of resting on the idea that home will be when I am reunited with my savior.
Paul goes on to tell us in verse four, “While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life.” Like Paul said, I don’t want to die, but I do look forward to the day when I will be made new. The day when the Lord creates a new heaven and a new earth and will once again dwell among us.
Over time, I have come to view Cleveland as my second home. I can navigate most places without a GPS, have found great friends, and now have many memories of this town in southeast Tennessee. Although Cleveland now holds such a special place in my heart, the journey I took to get to this feeling will always serve as a reminder of the home that awaits me with Jesus.
Maggie Possinger is currently a student at Lee University. She can usually be found writing, reading, or coffee shop hopping. When not
Foundation House Ministries
Foundation House Ministries recognizes the profound challenges faced by women in crisis pregnancies. Many of these mothers find themselves trapped in a cycle of instability, struggling with financial, emotional, and spiritual turmoil. Bringing Hope, Breaking Hopeless Cycles
Foundation House Ministries aims to break this cycle by providing comprehensive, faith-based programs that offer safe housing, life skills training, and emotional support to empower these families toward a brighter future. Foundation House provides a holistic approach to support families in crisis. Their programs are designed to address both immediate needs and long-term goals. Safe housing, life skills, and counseling services are offered to clients. By addressing these critical areas, Foundation House empowers women to overcome their challenges and build a stable independent future. How You Can Bring Hope
Do you have items that aren’t useful anymore? Or, would your budget like a boost with lower prices on quality items? The Good Foundations Thrift Store provides the community with a win/win! Stop in and check out the great deals at 264 Broad St NW Cleveland, TN. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 11 am to 4 pm, and then on Saturday, 11 am to 3 pm.
Other ways to share hope:
● Donate: Your financial support provides essential resources for our programs Every contribution makes a difference.
● Volunteer: Join our team of dedicated volunteers. Whether you can give a few hours or commit to a regular schedule, your time and skills are invaluable.
● Spread the word: Share our mission with your network to raise awareness and bring more supporters to our cause.
● In-kind donations: We are always in need of supplies such as baby items, clothing, and household goods. Every bit of help brings us closer to giving these women and their children a chance at a brighter future.
● Attend an event: Participate in our fundraising events and community activities. Your involvement helps raise awareness and critical funds. Your chance is coming soon. Mark your calendars and inquire how you can help prepare before, during, and/or after. The fourth annual Festival Of Trees will be held Thursday, November 14th, 6-8 pm at The Old Woolen Mill. For more information and tickets call 423-464-5351. Details are on the website: www.foundationhouseministries.org. Inspiration and Impact
For more than ten years now, Foundation House Ministries has been a beacon of hope for countless women and their children.
The impact can be seen in the success stories of mothers who have transitioned from crisis to stability, finding faith and purpose along the way.
Brooke, a current client, encourages, "I'd advise anyone looking for a program to come here because they can get the help they really want here. I got the help I was looking for and this ministry has helped me be sober for three years now.”
“Foundation House Ministries showed hospitality to me and gave me a bed to sleep in after three years of being homeless. This ministry will help me grow and further the kingdom,” adds Megan, also a current client.
Jennifer Roijas is the Community Resource Coordinator/ Development for Foundation House Ministries. She shares, “Being a part of this ministry is such a blessing! Working here has changed my life! Seeing the way God moves in the lives of our clients and how He moves on behalf of this ministry is amazing! If you want to feel a peace like no other just come by and hang out in our prayer room for a little while! Breakthroughs are found here, and prayers are answered daily!”
Hearing from Morgan, a former client who is now a senior case manager, we learn, "Foundation House Ministries is the place where I was able to start my life over from the ground up. I changed who I was and then everything else changed. Here, I found God, and the love of Jesus was shown to me. I hadn't thought since I was a child that I could have a good life and peace in my heart, and now that is what I have. And now I even get to help other women do the same thing. God is good!!! Thank you FHM for all you did for me, and what we will continue to do.”
From the Founder
Suzanne Burns, Founder/Executive Director, “We walk with each mother, trapped in a crisis lifestyle, on her journey towards faith, wholeness, and lasting stability. At Foundation House Ministries, we are a community of strength and love, and we'd love to have you stop by and visit our offices at 258 Broad St. NW, Cleveland, TN. Our office hours are Monday through Friday 9 am to 4 pm. We would love to give you the grand tour and talk about how you can get involved!”
Bible Study Company is an online study Bible and a social media community. Our mission is to study scripture to live a praiseworthy life to God. Our hope is a "Company" of believers will study scripture which in turn, causes obedience and service to God. Pew-sitters will grow into disciples. Disciples then become teachers and bear fruit for Christ.
The Bear and the Bee: A Lesson in Compassion
by Charles Finney
Once upon a time, in a lush forest teeming with life, there lived a grizzly bear named Benny. Benny was known throughout the forest as the largest and mightiest bear, but he also had the softest heart. He lived near a great oak tree, which was home to a colony of busy bees.
One sunny morning, as Benny was lumbering through the forest, he came across a bountiful honey tree, buzzing with bees. The tree's golden honey glistened like a treasure, and Benny's mouth watered at the sight. He stretched his massive paw towards the hive, but just as he was about to take a swipe, a small bee named Buzzy buzzed right in front of his nose.
Benny paused, surprised by Buzzy's bravery. “What are you doing here, little bee?” he asked, lowering his paw.
Buzzy replied, “This is our home, and that honey is our food. If you take it, we will have nothing to eat, and our babies will starve.”
Benny, though hungry, felt a pang of compassion for the bees. He withdrew his paw and said, “I'm sorry, Buzzy. I didn't realize. I won't take your honey.”
Buzzy smiled and said, “Thank you, Benny. You are kinder than you seem.”
From that day on, Benny became friends with the bees. He watched over their hive and made sure no other animals would harm them. In return, the bees shared some of their honey with Benny as a token of their gratitude.
One summer morning, as Benny was enjoying a stroll through the forest, he came across a field of colorful wildflowers. Their vibrant petals danced in the breeze, and their sweet fragrance filled the air. Benny was fascinated by a particular wildflower, a beautiful red rose, standing all alone.
But as he approached, he noticed something unusual. A tiny, delicate butterfly named Bella was trapped between the rose's thorns, struggling to break free.
Without hesitation, Benny reached out and gently freed Bella from the rose's grasp. She fluttered her wings with relief and gratitude. “Thank you, Benny,” she said. “You saved me.”
Benny smiled warmly and replied, “It's my pleasure, Bella. Every creature deserves kindness and compassion.”
Bella, touched by Benny's compassion, invited him to stay and admire the wildflowers together. As they spent time among the blossoms, they realized how much beauty there was in the world when they looked out for one another.
The story of Benny, Buzzy, and Bella reminds us of a beautiful lesson from the Bible, found in 1 Peter 3:8 KJV:
“Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.”
Just like Benny, who showed compassion for the bees and helped Bella, we too can practice kindness and compassion in our daily lives. When we help others, we spread love and make the world a more beautiful place, just like the wildflowers in the forest.
And so, the bear, the bee, the honey tree, the flower, and their little butterfly friend lived harmoniously in the forest, reminding everyone they met that compassion and kindness were the sweetest treasures of all.
Gò0 dNews for Seniors Taking Mountains
by Paul McGuire
Caleb cried. He had waited so long. His heart was often “sick” worrying over the future of his family. He knew that what he had believed to be true was true, but, when, O Lord, when?
hopes are coming true. Praise be to Jehovah! His words of promise always come true!”
So it was to be, and so it was: victory for Caleb. And that victory against those very giants that the others feared so much! “But we got ‘em, boys, we got ‘em!” (see Joshua 15:13-14).
I have a good start into my seventies. My, (I should say, “Our”, my wife’s and my), determination is to see fully walked out all the things Heavenly Father has spoken to us that we are to do. I have contended for years that “retirement” is a human concept, not a God-concept. I have heard many over my years talk about “stepping back and letting the young folks take the lead.” Really? Sure, there are the younger ones who will qualify themselves as worthy to lead. But where is there Biblical teaching instructing the older ones to step back? If we will run as in a relay race, there will come a time to hand off the baton to another one. But we who know the Way, must run until we cannot anymore run.
So as that time came, after Moses’ work was finished and then had passed away, Caleb and Joshua were the only two direct witnesses to the Promised Land ahead of them. As Joshua stepped forward and upward into his role as leader of the vast peoples, with eyes still wet with tears of determination and hope, Caleb boldly proclaimed his ability to win in his battles. It was with strong determination, with an almost angered determination, that he fairly yelled, “Give me my mountain!”
The gritty conditions of the wilderness, his reviewing over the years, and the delay caused by the sickening weakness of the other now-dead spies, drove him in determination beyond the expected limitations of his 85 years.
“I am as strong now as when we searched out the land, Joshua. You know this! I can and I will do this, this Godgiven battle and victory for my family. My words and my
Caleb held tightly to the Promises of God to go in and TAKE the land promised to Abraham and thereby to himself. What has God promised you? Don’t you DARE step out of the race until you have finished your divine course! Until you have handed off as best you can the vision God gave you to the one or ones who will take your baton and continue the work God has ordained. Retire?! Bah! GIVE ME MY MOUNTAIN!!
Paul McGuire has been born again for over 60 years, and has pursued to hear God’s voice through all those years. He and his wife Teresa of over 50 years are active at Living Word Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. They have two children and five grandchildren.
Cleveland Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal
Price Memorial AME Zion 254 Dooley Street NE, Cleveland, TN 37311
Anglican
Mission Cleveland 1165 Church St SE, Cleveland, TN 37311
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church Of Cleveland 4859 Freewill Rd NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (229) 343-6880
Assembly of God
The Collectives Church 1976 Westland Dr SW, Cleveland, TN 37311 (423) 641-0193
