Winter 2009, Tennessee Home and Farm

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Home & Farm tnhomeandfarm.com Winter 2009

SHEAR DELIGHT Couple raises sheep, then spins the wool

BIG PICTURE SHOW Focus shifts to the winners SEE PHOTO CONTEST GALLERIES ONLINE

PEACEFUL YET WILD B&B at Reelfoot Lake attracts bald eagle watchers

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Home & Farm An official publication of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation Š 2008 TFBF EDITOR Pettus Read CIRCULATION MANAGER Stacey Warner MANAGING EDITOR Kim Newsom ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jessy Yancey COPY EDITOR Joyce Caruthers ONLINE CONTENT MANAGER Matt Bigelow CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dan Batey, Carol Cowan,

Rebecca Denton, Susan Hamilton, Laura Hill, Anthony Kimbrough, Kevin Litwin, Jessica Mozo, Abby Selden DATABASE PROJECT MANAGER Yancey Turturice DATA MANAGER Ranetta Smith SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Brian McCord STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Adkins, Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier, Ian Curcio, J. Kyle Keener PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT Anne Whitlow CREATIVE DIRECTOR Keith Harris WEB DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Brian Smith PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Natasha Lorens ASSISTANT PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Carden PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hazel Risner PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGER Katie Middendorf SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Candice Sweet, Vikki Williams WEB PROJECT MANAGERS Andy Hartley, Yamel Ruiz WEB DESIGN Ryan Dunlap, Carl Schulz COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN Twila Allen AD TRAFFIC Marcia Banasik, Sarah Miller, Patricia Moisan, Raven Petty CHAIRMAN Greg Thurman PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Bob Schwartzman EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Ray Langen SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT Jeff Heefner SR. V.P./SALES Carla H. Thurman SR. V.P./OPERATIONS Casey E. Hester V.P./SALES Herb Harper V.P./SALES Todd Potter V.P./VISUAL CONTENT Mark Forester V.P./TRAVEL PUBLISHING Sybil Stewart V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Teree Caruthers MANAGING EDITORS BUSINESS Maurice Fliess, Bill McMeekin MANAGING EDITOR COMMUNITY Kim Madlom MANAGING EDITOR TRAVEL Susan Chappell PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Jeffrey S. Otto CONTROLLER Chris Dudley ACCOUNTING Moriah Domby, Richie Fitzpatrick,

Editor’s note

Combining Interests Isn’t our cover image just striking? Reelfoot Lake has always been one of my favorite destinations in Tennessee, especially in the winter.

It has something for everyone – a remarkable story behind its creation for the history buffs, gorgeous landscapes for the avid photographers, and fairly common eagle sightings for our bird enthusiasts. In fact, our cover story focuses on bird watching, as we visit with Nancy Moore, an avid birder in Tiptonville.

For many, like Moore, taking snapshots of birds is as enjoyable as the search for rare species, which combines two hobbies – birding and photography. And, if the number of entries in our annual photo contest is any indication, photography is a growing interest across Tennessee.

This year’s competition garnered more than 1,300 entries. But one photo prevailed as the grand-prize winner, and you can see it, along with the other category winners, on page 16.

Then, visit tnhomeandfarm.com to view photo galleries of our honorable mentions. Write to us at thaf@jnlcom.com about your favorites; we’re curious to find out what photos you like most.

Kim Newsom, managing editor thaf@jnlcom.com

Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Lacy Upchurch (Columbia) VICE PRESIDENT Danny Rochelle (Nunnelly) DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE Jeff Aiken (Telford) Charles Hancock (Bumpus Mills) Linda Davis (Rutherford)

Diana Guzman, Maria McFarland, Lisa Owens ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER, CUSTOM DIVISION

Beth Murphy INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER Kelly McBrayer RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR Suzy Waldrip DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR Gary Smith IT SYSTEMS DIRECTOR Matt Locke IT SERVICE MANAGER Ryan Sweeney HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Peggy Blake CUSTOM/TRAVEL SALES SUPPORT Rachael Goldsberry SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR Rachel Matheis SALES COORDINATOR Jennifer Alexander EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT Kristy Duncan

CU S TO M M AG A Z INE M ED I A

Tennessee Home & Farm is produced for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation by Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

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DISTRICT DIRECTORS Malcolm Burchfiel (Newbern) Bob Willis (Hillsboro) Eric Mayberry (Hurricane Mills) Dan Hancock (Smithville) David Mitchell (Blaine) STATE FB WOMEN’S CHAIRMAN Jane May (Newbern)

TENNESSEE HOME & FARM (USPS No. 022-305) Issued quarterly by the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, (931) 388-7872. Periodical permit paid at Columbia, TN, and additional entry offices.

POSTMASTER Send address corrections to: Tennessee Home & Farm Executive Offices, P.O. Box 313, Columbia, TN 38402-0313.

TO SUBSCRIBE TH&F is included in your $25 Farm Bureau annual dues. (No other purchase necessary.) Stop by any county Farm Bureau office to join!

ADVISORY DIRECTORS Dr. Joseph DiPietro (UT-Knoxville) STATE YF&R CHAIRMAN Ben Moore (Dresden) OTHER OFFICERS AND STAFF PERSONNEL CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Julius Johnson TREASURER Wayne Harris COMPTROLLER Tim Dodd

Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation tnfarmbureau.org

ADVERTISING POLICY For advertising information, contact Kelly McBrayer at (800) 333-8842, ext. 277, or by e-mail at kmcbrayer@jnlcom.com.

All advertising accepted is subject to publisher’s approval. Advertisers must assume all liability for content of their advertising. Publisher and Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation maintain the right to cancel advertising for nonpayment or reader complaint about advertiser service or product.

Publisher does not accept political or alcoholic beverage ads, nor does publisher prescreen or guarantee advertiser service or products.

Publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised in Tennessee Home & Farm.

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Table of Contents

Features 8 / Peaceful Yet Wild

B&B at Reelfoot Lake attracts bald eagle watchers

12 / Shear Delight

Couple raises sheep, then spins the wool

16 / Big Picture Show

Focus shifts to the winners of our 13th annual photo contest

26 /Cooking With Cast Iron Bring out your grandmother’s Dutch ovens and skillets

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Departments 4 / From Our Readers

Members tell us what they think

5 / Read All About It

Stick horses join the extinction list

6 / Short Rows

A new twist on a holiday classic – a fruitcake cookie

22 /Gardening

Resolve to garden more, exercise less

30 /Country Classics

Ribbon Meat Loaf is crowd favorite

31/ Restaurant Review

It’s tea time at Burdett’s Tea Shop

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34 /Travel

Visiting the Smoky Mountains

39 /Family Security

Tips for making sure your home isn’t under-insured

41/ To Good Health

Health-care options for seniors

42/ Events & Festivals

Things to do, places to see

49 /View From the Back Porch Learning to like the winter

ON THE COVER Reelfoot Lake, Photography by Wes Aldridge tnhomeandfarm.com

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From Our Readers

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Winter 2009 tnhomeandfarm.com FOOD & RECIPES

online

TRAVEL

HOME & GARDEN

TENNESSEE LIVING

Wild About Walnuts Check your walnuts in the picture on page 26 [The ‘Keeping’ Kind, Fall 2008]. They seem to be English walnuts and not black walnuts as the recipe lists.

I’m a long-time cook and lover of black walnuts!

Faye Jones Cleveland, Tenn.

Editor’s note: Great catch! Several other eagle-eyed Tennessee Home & Farm readers also found our mistake.

Even with the wrong walnuts, our test version tasted great! Tell us some of your favorite Black Walnut Cream Cake variations at tnhomeandfarm.com.

Visit the online version of this recipe and add your comments to the feedback section.

In This Issue > FOOD

Quite a Classic

Plan Your Holiday Meal

Can you please tell me if copies of Country Classics Volume II are still available, the price and if you ship them? Thank you in advance.

Need new recipes for the holidays? Visit our ever-expanding Recipe Center, where you can print and e-mail recipes like this Festive Peppermint Fudge.

Karen Woodard Meridianville, Ala.

Food & Recipes

Home & Garden

Submit your favorite Tennessee restaurants, and make suggestions on what types of recipes you’d like to see in the magazine.

Find four ideas for holiday wreaths and other great holiday gift ideas.

Travel Plan your trip to a Tennessee Christmas parade, and discover other great holiday treasures across the state.

Editor’s note: The cookbooks are still available, as well as Country Classics Volume I, the original recipe collection from the Farm Bureau Women’s Committee. To order, call (931) 388-7872, ext. 2217. The Down-Home Dumplings cookbook is also still available and can be ordered at tnhomeandfarm.com or by calling (800) 333-8842, ext. 315.

Tennessee Living Over the years, our columnists have given quite eloquent accounts of past winters in Tennessee. Read them in our Tennessee Living section.

Blog See what’s been on Pettus’ mind in his latest Read All About It blog post.

Events Plan your weekend. Our calendar of events and festivals will give you lots of fun choices.

tnhomeandfarm.com MORE > LEARN TO MAKE BEA FARMER’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS.

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Questions, comments and story ideas can be sent to: Jessy Yancey, 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, or e-mail us at thaf@jnlcom.com. tnfarmbureau.org

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Read All About It

My Old Trusty Steed STICK HORSES ARE NOW ON THE EXTINCTION LIST hile cleaning out an old shed the other day, I ran across a pile of my father’s tobacco sticks that he used several years ago to raise tobacco. Those sticks were pretty important on our farm, and he guarded those pieces of wood like they were gold. They were the source for making a crop that helped pay his children’s way through college and made Christmas a whole lot more enjoyable for Santy Claus and us.

As I moved some of those sticks, I thought out loud about how they still could make a really good stick horse for a kid. When I was small, Daddy’s tobacco sticks were the “herd” where I would go to pick out a noble wooden steed.

With that piece of wood and a grass string tied at the top for a bridle, I could take my imagination out West with Roy and Gene to fight outlaws and make the long cattle drives.

My stick horse, in my imagination, would be just as real alongside Roy and Gene’s horses Trigger and Champion as we would ride off into the sunset.

But, it seems kids just don’t ride stick horses anymore. It has been ages since I have seen a child out in the front yard on a stick horse. Maybe they have all evolved to the backyard, or could it be the stick horse has become extinct? I know it is becoming harder to find a real good tobacco stick these days, but surely there is a replacement out there somewhere to help maintain the stick horse tradition for our youth.

Growing up on a farm in Middle Tennessee, stick horses were as common in my day as fried chicken being served on Sunday. Of course, you are going to tell me now that fried chicken is no longer served on Sunday, but it should be.

As a farm child back in the 50s, you couldn’t

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just walk to where you wanted to go. A stick horse was a main form of transportation for a six-year-old farm boy.

My friend and former commissioner of agriculture, as well as radio and TV star, L. V. “Cotton” Ivy, is a true stick horse fan and supporter. He often tells the story (which I know is the truth), about riding his favorite stick horse to school. Seems he tied it out front of the schoolhouse, and when he came outside in the afternoon to go home, some no-good horse thief had stolen his stick horse. Without his stick horse, he had to walk all the way home!

I was born in the years of BWM (Before Wal-Mart), and your toys could be found wherever your imagination led you. From sunup to sundown we would ride our trusty mounts across the Tennessee countryside, saving the world from all types of disaster.

Our imaginations helped make our summer days go by, rather than using an X-Box, Wii, cable TV, Internet or computer game.

Our heroes were real people. We had Roy Rogers on Trigger, Gene Autry on Champion and the Lone Ranger on Silver. I guess what made them so real to me was that each one of those heroes was agriculturally connected.

They rode real horses, drove cattle on the range, worked in the great outdoors, were always having a note coming due and courted their sweethearts “the cowboy way.”

Sometimes I wonder about the future generation. Look at mine. We made pies from mud, horses from tobacco sticks, flying toys from June bugs and swings from tires. We haven’t turned out too bad.

I just hope those in the next generations use their imaginations in fun ways like we did.

It sure makes life a whole lot easier and tremendously less expensive.

About the Author Pettus L. Read is editor of the Tennessee Farm Bureau News and director of communications for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation.

Read his blog of country wisdom and wit in the Tennessee Living section at tnhomeandfarm.com.

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Short Rows

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1/ A Blossoming Business Located on a 35-acre piece of property in Nashville is the world’s largest producer of African violets.

Holtkamp Greenhouses, owned by German native Reinhold Holtkamp and his family, is a pioneer in creating new – and improved – African violet varieties, with more than 600 developed.

Thanks to the Holtkamp family’s pioneering research, almost every African violet commercially grown today has “semper florescence” – no more dropping of flowers at the slightest jostle. Holtkamp Greenhouses, through its product line called Optimara, has sparked the enthusiasm of collectors as well as everyday gardeners looking for a showy but hardy indoor plant.

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To learn more about Optimara products, visit www.optimara.com. To order flowers or plant-care products, visit www.selectivegardener.com.

2 / Popsicles for a Valentine Any Nashvillian looking to enjoy a chilly treat could visit a traditional ice cream shop for a scoop of vanilla or chocolate. But why would they, when they could stop by gourmet popsicle shop Las Paletas instead, for deliciously unique frozen treats in flavors like hibiscus, honeydew and tamarind with chili?

One of the most unusual, and popular, flavors concocted by storeowners and sisters Irma Paz-Bernstein and Norma Paz-Curtis is rose-petal. Originally created as an

“edible and romantic” Valentine’s Day special (perfect for this time of year), the rose-petal paletas were so popular that Paz-Bernstein and Paz-Curtis now make them year-round.

For a taste of rose-petals, or any of Las Paletas’ tasty and unusual flavors, stop by the shop on the corner of 12th Avenue South and Kirkwood in Nashville.

3/ Read All About It After many years of requests, Tennessee Home & Farm editor Pettus Read has collected his favorite columns into a book. Appropriately titled Read All About It, the book contains more than 30 of Read’s best work from the past 25 years, with stories about pulley-bones, the second tnfarmbureau.org

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Farm Facts

4 / A Fruitcake Cookie When Amey B. Walker left her corporate job in Florida and relocated to Nashville, she had no idea what direction her career would take. Lucky for us, Walker started the cookie company “Amey B’s Cookie Delights.”

Amey bakes a variety of delicious cookies, including Chocolate Cherry Pecan, Coconut Cherry Pecan, Pumpkin Pineapple Pecan, Sweet Potato Pecan and even Wedding Cherry Pecan. Her most famous cookie variety, however, is the Fruittie Nuttie cookie, based on her grandmother’s fruitcake recipe.

Amey’s cookies can be purchased online at www.ameybcookies.com.

5/ Patch of History On May 18, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into effect the Tennessee Valley Authority Act. Today, the TVA still serves millions of people through energy, environment and economic development.

To commemorate its rich and productive 75-year history, a TVA committee decided to tell the corporation’s story through three photographic quilts, since quilts are a traditional art form in the region.

The identical quilts showcase the most significant moments of the TVA’s history through 24 photographs.

See a photo of the quilts at tnhomeandfarm.com. You can also view the quilts in person at TVA’s Knoxville complex, open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Showings at other TVA locations are planned throughout 2009. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Saving Our Seeds At the very core of agriculture is its responsibility to feed the world.

Without food, we have nothing. But to take it a step further, without the seeds from which to grow plants, we have no future. Scary thought, but fortunately, there are groups of scientists across the world working to prevent this problem.

Last winter, a facility was established in Norway to house and preserve a wide variety of plant seeds from all over the world. This facility, called the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, holds duplicate samples of seeds held in other country’s seed banks, as a “back-up” copy in cases of accidental loss, global warming, mutant plant diseases and mismanagement of other seed banks, especially in cases of developing countries.

That’s a good idea, considering that about 75 percent of the genetic diversity of agricultural crops has been lost in the last century, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. For example, consider that in 1900, some 8,000 varieties of apples were grown in the United States. Today, only five percent of those exist. Learn more facts about this interesting agricultural project, including its Tennessee ties. l The seed vault is constructed almost 400 feet inside a sandstone mountain, below the permafrost on Spitsbergen Island, 700 miles from the North Pole. l The seed vault can hold 4.5 million seeds – all of which must be dried to a particular moisture level and sealed inside air- and water-tight packages. l Seeds from more than 100 countries are currently stored at the seed vault and will be preserved for hundreds of years, possibly longer. l The Svalbard Global Seed Vault cost nearly $8 million to build, paid for by the Norwegian government and Global Crop Diversity Trust. l Cary Fowler, a Shelby County native, is the executive director of the Diversity Trust, based in Rome, and manages the seed vault project.

He found his interest in agriculture as a young boy, spending summers on his grandparents’ farm near Madison, Tenn.

Photo Courtesy of Mari Tefre/Global Crop Diversity Trust

table, stick horses and more. It’s a perfect gift idea for anyone who enjoys reminiscing about days gone by and Tennessee rural life. Proceeds from the sale of the book will go to Tennessee 4-H and Tennessee FFA programs. For ordering information, see page 45 or visit tnhomeandfarm.com.

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Travel

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Bird’s-Eye STORY BY JESSICA MOZO PHOTOGRAPHY BY WES ALDRIDGE

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fter taking a weekend eaglewatching trip to Reelfoot Lake in February 1993, Nancy Moore realized a life-change was in order.

“I was in my 40s, and it seemed like all the sudden my eyes opened, and I started seeing birds,” she recalls. “I fell in love with Reelfoot. It’s the most pristine area for birding in Tennessee, and it intrigued me.”

Two years later, Moore convinced her husband Tom to move to Tiptonville from their home in Lewisburg.

“My husband didn’t know what to think,” Moore says. “We came and spent a weekend here, and he looked around. Then he said, ‘If you really want to do this, I’ll support you.’ ” The Moores partnered with another couple to purchase a 1930s lakefront building that was formerly a fishing clubhouse. Together they turned it into Blue Basin Cove Bed and Breakfast.

“It’s a neat old building that’s built on stilts, and there’s a glassed-in porch that’s the breakfast room,” Moore explains. “This isn’t a typical Victorian bed and breakfast.

It’s more for the outdoor person.”

And it’s certainly for the person who loves birds. Reelfoot Lake’s position along the Mississippi Flyway brings in birds of all

REELFOOT LAKE B&B OWNER OFFERS HOME COOKING AND BIRDING ADVICE

Cypress trees are commonly found at Reelfoot Lake. Birder Nancy Moore, right, says these trees provide excellent nesting sites for bald eagles. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Travel

Birding 101 Interested in becoming a bird-watching hobbyist? Start with a pair of binoculars and a good field guide.

“That’s the beginning,” Moore says. “Then you just have to get out and bird.”

You can find resources about birding in Tennessee and meet others who share your interest through The Tennessee Ornithological Society (www.tnbirds.org), which has more than a dozen chapters across the state that hold regular meetings and field trips.

Start by documenting birds in your own back yard, writing down their physical attributes and the sounds they make. You may even want to sketch or photograph them. Documenting birds that nest near your home will give you good practice for future bird-watching trips.

Moore says the best places to bird are near water sources such as lakes and rivers.

“Radnor Lake in Nashville is great, and the Smoky Mountains are great,” she says. “Also Pickwick Dam, the Big Sandy area, Paris Landing and anywhere along the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers.”

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kinds of feathers.

“I see birds that shouldn’t even be here,” Moore says. “And storms always bring in odd birds.”

Once she spotted a Eurasian wigeon, a duck with a dark reddish head that comes from Siberia and Iceland and is sporadically seen along North America’s Pacific and Atlantic coasts. She says she commonly sees ospreys and Prothonotary warblers, which both nest in the area around the lake.

“Mississippi kites are fairly common here too, and they’re a neat bird,” Moore adds.

Her favorite of all the birds is the least bittern, a heron with a long neck and bill that’s often difficult to spot because of its camouflage color.

“They’re hard to find because they’re a really secretive bird,” she says.

Visitors flock to Reelfoot Lake in January and February to catch glimpses of bald eagles.

“We have 14 nesting pairs here all the time, and last winter we had approximately 125 eagles here,” Moore says. “They’re very easy to find – it’s amazing. The state even does bus tours.”

Moore often takes her guests out on pontoon boat tours to get a closer look at the eagles and other birds.

“I recently took some photographers out who wanted to photograph an osprey nest,” she says. “I photograph birds too, and I take birding trips. Last year, I went to Maine, California, the Smokies, Hilton Head and Minnesota.”

Eventually she plans to decorate her five

bed and breakfast units with her bird photography.

March through June is the busiest time of year at Blue Basin Cove. Fishermen are regular visitors in addition to bird-watchers, thanks to the abundance of crappie and blue gill Reelfoot Lake offers. The bed and breakfast even has its own bait shop and boat rentals.

“We get a lot of vacationers, photographers and even honeymooners,” Moore says. “One couple that likes to fish came all the way from England. After they went fishing, we had a fish fry for them that evening.”

Moore is now the sole proprietor of Blue Basin Cove – she bought out the couple they opened it with, and her husband died two years ago. She says these days her favorite thing about running the business is the location, of course, and cooking breakfast for the guests who gather around her table.

“It’s nothing fancy – just home-cookin’,” she says. “It’s not a Danish and coffee – it’s a full breakfast. I do bacon, eggs, toast, sausage gravy and biscuits, pancakes, French toast and omelets.”

In the winter, bald eagles are visible from the breakfast table, and hummingbirds swarm the deck in spring and summer.

“I love looking at that lake every morning when I wake up,” Moore says. “God created Reelfoot, and it’s marvelous. Sharing it with people is what makes life worthwhile.”

For more about Moore’s B&B or Reelfoot Lake birding, visit www.bluebasin.com.

Reelfoot Lake in northwest Tennessee hosts 100-200 American Bald Eagles each winter. Guided tours offer visitors the best chance to view eagles, but amateur watching is also common. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Tennessee Living

Shear Delight

COUPLE RAISES SHEEP, THEN SPINS THE WOOL

STORY BY REBECCA DENTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN McCORD

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eth Collier, a registered nurse and self-professed city girl, never expected to become a sheep farmer. But five years ago she took the plunge with her husband, Steve Shafer, and bought a flock of sheep as a way to expand use of their 56-acre farm in Charlotte.

Collier now spins wool from their sheep into yarn with a wooden spinning wheel, and she demonstrates the age-old art at more than half a dozen festivals throughout the state.

“Spinning is a very Zen thing; I don’t know how else to describe it,” Collier says. “It’s very relaxing, very enjoyable – a deep connection to the past.”

The soothing pastime has quietly blossomed into quite a promising side business – one that has grown as quickly and naturally as the wildflowers on their Dickson County farm.

The couple’s herd includes 12 Icelandic sheep and 29 Shetlands – all of which are registered and have names

One Tough Fiber It may be warm and cozy, but wool is both stronger than steel and fire resistant. And when it gets wet, wool can absorb up to 30 percent of its weight in moisture.

Beth Collier spins wool from sheep raised on her Charlotte farm. Her next venture, she says, is learning how to weave. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Tennessee Living

Wool of Many Colors Three Creeks Farm holds a “dye day” each year. It’s a chance for visitors to bring their own wool (or buy some at the farm) to dye by hand in big stainless-steel pots.

“Everyone has a lot of fun, and they come up with colors you can’t repeat again,” Shafer says. “We spread out drying racks, and the wool looks like rainbows.”

Collier also hosts a spinning group – the Barefoot Spinners – that meets the first Sunday of each month at the farm. It’s a small, friendly gathering of about 10 women who meet to share their skills and enjoy each other’s company.

For more information about these events and the farm, visit www.3creeksfarm.com or call Beth Collier at (615) 789-5943.

like Seamus, MacBeth, Sinead and Fiona. They breed the sheep and sell the babies, and they shear the flock each spring to harvest the highquality wool.

Shafer, a retired schoolteacher, is the sheep’s primary caretaker.

“I spoil them, totally,” he says.

“The sheep give us wool, and they also give you a lot of love. A dog is close, but sheep are sweeter. There’s something about them that gets to you. And once a year, you’re going to get lambs. Nothing can make you feel better than lambing season.”

Collier and Shafer researched breeds before buying, and they decided on Icelandic and Shetland sheep – two rare, pure breeds that are small enough for the 5-foot-tall Collier to handle. They also provide top-quality, beautifully colored wool.

Shetland fleece has the most color variety, Shafer says, with 32 different color patterns. The wool gets purchased about as fast as they can prepare it.

Shafer and Collier shear the sheep together each spring, worm them, trim their feet and assist with lambing when necessary. The couple processes much of the wool by hand – washing, combing and carding it

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into a soft, fluffy texture. To help lighten their load, they’ve recently started shipping hundreds of pounds to a processing mill in Oklahoma.

Collier and Shafer sell roving (wool that has been washed, combed and carded) and fleece (a year’s worth of unprocessed wool from one sheep) at festivals and from a small shop on their farm.

“Our primary market is other spinners,” Collier says. “Most spinners cannot also raise their own sheep, and they may not have any interest in it.”

An agricultural-enhancement grant from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture helped fund a 200-squarefoot spinning and fiber shop at the entrance to Three Creeks Farm. The store’s hardwood floors and shelves are lined with baskets of handspun yarn, raw fleece, spinning wheels and supplies such as hand carders, felting boards and needles, commercial and natural wool dyes, and books about dyes, spinning, weaving and felting.

“Even when we started down the path of making this into a side business, I didn’t foresee it taking off the way it has,” Collier says. “It’s quite rewarding to be able to do this, and to be able to do it in a way that is self-sustaining.”

As with any farm venture, however, it comes with a whole lot of hard work.

Shafer and Collier grow their own herbs in a greenhouse, and they harvest wildflowers and raise traditional dye plants – including chicory, woad, amaranth, marigold, zinnia and black-oil sunflower – to create their own natural dyes.

“It’s a good excuse to raise flowers,” Collier says. “I love gardening, and when your flowers can also dye your wool and yarn, it combines two of your loves into one.

It’s kind of a macho thing to be able to say, ‘I raised the sheep, I sheared the sheep, I washed the wool, I spun the wool, I dyed it with flowers I picked – and I crocheted a sweater or shawl.’”

A blacksmith for 10 years, Shafer makes candleholders, hooks, door hinges and other metal items to sell.

He also cares for the sheep, makes jewelry, raises hay, and sells herbs and award-winning chickens.

The farm offers sheep-shearing, spinning and blacksmith demonstrations to school groups and other visitors by appointment.

“It’s a way of having a small farm and making it work,” Shafer says.

“You have to really hustle and do a lot of different things.” tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:31:33 PM

Three Creeks Farm owners Beth Collier and Steve Shafer breed Shetland and Icelandic sheep for wool. The Middle Tennessee couple recently helped form the Southeastern Shetland Sheep Breeders Association.

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TFBF’s Annual Photo Contest

And the

Winners Are…

STORY BY CAROL COWAN

O

ne day last August while the morning fog still hung in the trees, Pam Lewis sat on the front porch of her Arlington farmhouse – the place where her husband grew up – enjoying a cup of coffee and the view.

“All of a sudden, I said to myself, ‘This is a picture!’” recalls Lewis, the grand-prize winner in the 13th annual Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation Photo Contest.

Her cat, Blackie, who had been lounging beside her, ran for cover when Lewis reached for her camera. But Lady, the dog, graciously posed for this portrait of the quintessential Tennessee farm front porch.

“And the hummingbirds!” Lewis exclaims.

“During the late summer, we had 20 to 25 hummingbirds every morning.”

We’re glad this one decided to hang around for the shot.

Lewis, who teaches in the English department at Union University in Jackson, only recently began cultivating her interest in photography. She says a friend had been teaching her about developing an eye for

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composition, which led to her “Aha!” moment on the porch when she snapped the winning photo.

You just never know when you’ll come upon a Tennessee photo opportunity. Pam Lewis beat out more than 1,300 entries to capture this year’s top prize. Narrowing the field to seven category winners is no easy task, either, so once again, we handed over your photos to our panel of professional photographers and graphic designers at Journal Communications in Franklin, the publishers of this magazine.

After studying stacks of stunning entries sent in by amateur shutterbugs from all over the state, our judges selected these final seven. (In addition, you can see photos that earned an honorable mention on our Web site, www.tnhomeandfarm.com.)

We’ll be doing it all again next year, so keep those cameras handy and be ready to capture the moment. Information for the 2009 contest will appear in the spring issue, and we’ll be accepting entries from March 1 through August 1.

Grand Prize Pam Lewis Arlington Shelby County Farm Bureau tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:31:53 PM

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TFBF’s Annual Photo Contest

First Place, Tennessee Landscapes Janel Seeley Hampton Carter County Farm Bureau

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10/27/08 1:32:03 PM

Second Place, Tennessee Landscapes Ronnie Phipps Dayton Rhea County Farm Bureau

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TFBF’s Annual Photo Contest

Second Place, Just Kids Ronnie Phipps Dayton Rhea County Farm Bureau

First Place, Just Kids Phil de Nobriga Kingsport Sullivan County Farm Bureau

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10/27/08 1:32:19 PM

First Place, Tennessee History Chris Anderson Memphis Shelby County Farm Bureau

Second Place, Tennessee History Lee Ann Pemberton Maryville Blount County Farm Bureau tnhomeandfarm.com

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Water Pail

Pilates A NEW NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION: GARDEN MORE, EXERCISE LESS

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10/27/08 1:35:07 PM

Home & Garden

I

t’s that time of year when many of us pause and contemplate improvements we want to make in our finances or our health and fitness. Getting more physically fit is always at the top of my list, but this year I’m taking a different approach. In addition to visiting the gym, I’m heading to my garden.

That’s right. My garden. My personal outdoor gym. Research shows that gardening can provide much of the same exercise opportunities that I can get at a typical gym.

Think of your shovel, rake, wheelbarrow and push mower as your exercise equipment.

Lifting a gallon sprinkling can full of water in each hand is equal to hefting eight-pound dumbbells.

As I researched this topic, I was pleased to learn that 45 minutes of steady gardening equals 30 minutes of aerobics. Don’t believe me? Check out the calories you can burn per hour with different gardening tasks, as compared to common exercises:

CALORIES BURNED PER HOUR/ACTIVITY 215/leisure walking 230/brisk walking 245/moderate swimming 265/raking 275/hand-trimming shrubs 275/weeding 305/digging 370/push mowing 430/jogging For me, it is easy to put 45 minutes or longer of work into my garden because it is a labor of love and I forget about the exercise I’m actually doing. Weeding, pruning, mowing, and even walking around the yard can increase your heart rate and tone your body.

Ask medical doctors about the best type of exercise and they will recommend activities that build your overall endurance, flexibility and strength. Yet, many people don’t stop to think about how gardening gives all major

muscle groups a good workout, including your legs, arms, buttocks, stomach, neck and back.

Whether it comes in the form of digging up soil, setting plants or mowing your lawn, exercise is taking place. Studies have shown that gardening, when practiced on a regular basis, can lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It may even play a role in preventing diabetes, heart disease, depression and osteoporosis. Even your brain gets a workout as you plan your garden designs.

Studies also show that gardening is a great stress buster, too. Gardeners exhibit brain waves similar to those demonstrated by people who meditate. Performing various garden activities provides a break from life’s day-to-day irritants, and those who practice gardening benefit from improved physical health, while having a beautiful landscape to show for their efforts.

If landscaping or flowers aren’t your thing, think of the lovely vegetables and fruits that gardening can provide. They’re healthful to grow and healthful to eat as well – not to mention delicious.

Need more quality time with your children? Writer and futurist Richard Louv believes gardening is extremely healthy for kids, who he says are suffering from “nature deficit disorder.” NDD, Louv says, is exhibited by children who spend too much time indoors. Symptoms are depression, obesity and attention deficit.

My kids love to garden with me, and I get a kick out of their enthusiasm for even the smallest of tasks. And I have to admit, just as it does for my children, gardening boosts my self-esteem and gives me a sense of accomplishment equal to or greater than any workout at the gym.

This year as you write out your resolutions, resolve to spend more time outdoors in your garden. Doing so will help improve more than just your landscape.

About the Author Dr. Susan Hamilton is an associate professor in the University of Tennessee Department of Plant Sciences and director of the UT Gardens. The gardens are a project of the Tennessee Agricultural Experiment Station, with locations in Knoxville and Jackson: http://utgardens. tennessee.edu.

In addition to its aesthetic benefits, gardening can improve your mental and physical health. tnhomeandfarm.com

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10/27/08 1:34:12 PM

Food

Cooking With

Cast Iron BRING OUT YOUR HEIRLOOM DUTCH OVENS AND SKILLETS

STORY BY KIM NEWSOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFFREY S. OTTO AND J. KYLE KEENER FOOD ST YLING BY KRISTEN WINSTON CATERING

T

o many Tennesseans, a cast-iron skillet is considered just as precious as a great-grandmother’s quilt or a treasured family photograph.

I’m one of those people.

Last Christmas, I received my first piece of cast-iron cookware. It was a cornstick pan – given to me by my grandfather, who thought my late grandmother would want me to have it.

He was right; I felt so honored to receive it, and the pan is now one of my prized possessions. Every time I use that cornstick pan, I think of my grandmother.

I consider cast iron to be more than just a type of kitchenware; to me, it represents Southern cooking at its core. Seasoned with memories and love, cast-iron cookware represents family gatherings around a Dutch oven full of stew or the early-morning smell of bacon frying in a skillet wafting to the bedrooms of sleepy children.

Beyond its personal meanings, cast-iron cookware has its definite advantages to other kitchen products.

Cast iron absorbs and retains heat more efficiently than most other cookware, which means you use less energy. It also distributes this heat evenly, which provides for perfect cooking all the way through.

For recipes that require both the stovetop and the oven, cast iron moves effortlessly from one to the other.

Cast iron has health benefits too. Wellseasoned cast iron boosts your iron intake, and it requires less or no oil as compared to other kitchenware – perfect for heart-healthy recipes. And best of all, cast-iron products (when properly maintained) last nearly forever, making those family pass-downs even more special.

In our celebration of cast iron, we’re sharing a few recipes that are truly best when prepared in this unique cookware. We hope you’ll enjoy them, and we invite all our Southern cooks to tell us your cast-iron memories and recipes. Visit the Web version of this story at tnhomeandfarm.com to comment or e-mail thaf@jnlcom.com.

Look for Lodge Did you know you can find great cast-iron cookware that’s made right here in Tennessee? In fact, South Pittsburg-based Lodge Manufacturing is the oldest family-run cookware business in the country. Started in 1896, Lodge has built a reputation as one of the premier cast-iron companies in North America – with an expanded product line that now includes enamel-coated cast iron.

To learn more, visit www.lodgemfg.com.

A bright-red Lodge enamel Dutch oven makes a perfect presentation for our Beef Bourguignon. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Food

Tamale Pie

Broccoli Cheese Cornbread

1

4

eggs, beaten

1½ teaspoon salt

2

sticks melted butter

1

cup cold water

1

medium onion, chopped

3

cups boiling water

1

12-ounce carton cottage cheese

2

jalapeño peppers, chopped

1

package chopped broccoli, thawed

1

medium onion, chopped

2

boxes Jiffy Cornmeal Mix

cup yellow cornmeal

1

large green bell pepper, chopped

2

cloves garlic, minced

2

tablespoons vegetable oil

1

28-ounce can chopped tomatoes, drained

1

tablespoon chili powder

2

teaspoons each, cumin and oregano

1

14½-ounce can pinto beans, drained

1

14½-ounce can whole-kernel corn, drained

1

pound ground beef, cooked

Make cornmeal mush by combining cornmeal, salt and cold water. Whisk the boiling water into the mush and cook 25 minutes over a double boiler, whisking occasionally.

Sauté together the jalapeno peppers, onion, bell pepper and garlic in the vegetable oil until soft.

Add the tomatoes, chili powder, cumin and oregano.

In a cast-iron skillet, spread half of the mush.

Layer the pinto beans, corn, and ground beef.

Cover with tomato filling mixture. Spread remaining mush on top. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 30 minutes.

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Mix together eggs, butter, onion, cottage cheese and broccoli. Add Jiffy Cornmeal Mix. Pour into a greased 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Cut into wedges to serve.

Consider serving our Broccoli Cheese Cornbread with a soul-warming soup. Visit the Recipe Center of tnhomeandfarm.com for several soups and stews worth trying.

tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:34:35 PM

Beef Bourguignon

Buffalo Chicken Dip

1

tablespoon olive oil

2

8

ounces bacon, diced

pounds chicken breasts, boiled and finely shredded

2½ pounds chuck beef, cut into 1-inch cubes

2

tablespoons butter, melted

1

pound baby carrots

1

cup buffalo wing sauce

2

medium yellow onions, sliced

16 ounces cream cheese

2

teaspoons chopped garlic

½ jar refrigerated blue cheese dressing

1

bottle dry red cooking wine

2

2

cups beef broth

1

tablespoon tomato paste

¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves 4

tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

3

tablespoons all-purpose flour

1

pound frozen whole onions

1

pound fresh mushrooms, sliced and sautéed

cups shredded mozzarella

Toss chicken with butter and wing sauce.

Marinate for 30 minutes. Spread cream cheese in bottom of 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Spread chicken on top of cream cheese, then spread blue cheese on top. Sprinkle mozzarella, and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with blue corn tortilla chips and celery sticks.

Salt and pepper Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven. Cook bacon until slightly browned and remove. Sprinkle beef with salt and pepper. In single layers, brown the beef 3 to 5 minutes and set aside. In the same pan, lightly brown onions, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.

Stir in the carrots and garlic. Add the bacon and meat. Pour in the bottle of wine and enough broth to almost cover the meat. Add the tomato paste and thyme. Bring to a simmer, cover and place in a 250-degree oven for one hour, or until the meat and vegetables are very tender.

Sauté mushrooms in 2 tablespoons of butter for 10 minutes until lightly browned. Whisk the other 2 tablespoons of butter and the flour, then stir into the stew. Add the sautéed mushrooms, frozen onions and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring the stew to a boil on top of the stove, then simmer for 15 minutes. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Cast iron is a great method for cooking dips, since it retains heat and keeps your dip hotter longer – perfect for parties!

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10/27/08 1:34:45 PM

Country Classics

Blue-Ribbon Meal MARTY DANILCHUK’S MEAT LOAF LOOKS AS GOOD AS IT TASTES enerally speaking, meat loaf is not one of your more attractive dishes. It is usually something in brown and dark red, with flecks of this and that.

Marty Danilchuk’s Ribbon Meat Loaf is an exception to that rule.

A member of Jefferson County Farm Bureau, Danilchuk made the recipe for the first time 28 years ago, right after she and husband Dennis got married. The newlywed took it to a covered-dish dinner at the preacher’s house.

A rookie cook, she was nervous.

“I wondered where I was going to get ground pork,” says Danilchuk. “When I went to the grocery, I had to ask them to grind it specially for me. I made the Ribbon Meat Loaf and served it with green beans and new potatoes.”

She adds, “Everybody liked it. It looked

G Want More?

Each issue of Tennessee Home & Farm highlights a selected recipe from Country Classics Volume II. Copies of the cookbook are available for $17 each, including shipping and handling, from county Farm Bureau offices, or by calling the Tennessee Farm Bureau home office at (931) 388-7872, ext. 2217.

beautiful. The cheese runs right through the middle, so when you slice it, it’s just pretty.”

When she got married and set up her household, Danilchuk began, as most women did, with Betty Crocker, where she thinks she got the recipe. She added to her recipe card file month after month, amassing a repertoire of good cooking, including her own copy of Country Classics II, produced by the Farm Bureau Women, which contains her prized meat loaf recipe.

– Catherine Darnell

Ribbon Meat Loaf 3 slices soft bread, torn into small pieces 1 cup milk 1 pound ground beef or veal 1/2 pound ground lean pork 1 egg yolk 1/4 cup minced onion 1 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon each of pepper, dry mustard, sage, and either celery salt or garlic salt 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Cheese Filling

Cheese Filling: 1 egg white, slightly beaten 1 tablespoon water 2 slices soft bread, torn into pieces

Staff Photo

4 ounces crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar cheese

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For cheese filling, combine egg white and water; toss lightly with breadcrumbs and cheese. Set aside. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Stir together bread and milk; mix in remaining ingredients except filling. Pat one half of meat mixture in greased loaf pan. Cover with cheese filling. Top with remaining meat. Bake one hour and 30 minutes. Yields 6-8 servings. tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:29:30 PM

Photos by Brian McCord

Restaurant Review

Visitors of all ages flock to Burdett’s Tea Shop in Springfield, well-known for its handmade scones.

Calling All Tea-Totalers HAVE YOUR CAKE AND SCONES, TOO, AT THIS SPRINGFIELD SHOP ou haven’t had a scone until you’ve been to Burdett’s Tea Shop & Trading Company in historic downtown Springfield.

You may have had a thawed-out, massproduced wanna-be scone at a coffee shop chain (we’re not naming any names), but you haven’t truly savored one of these biscuit-like British specialties until you sink your teeth into one of Burdett’s warm-from-the-oven, slightly moist, perfectly sweet handmade scones.

“A lot of people advertise fresh-baked scones, but ours really are handmade with our own family recipe,” says Sandy Ramsey, owner of Burdett’s Tea Shop & Trading Company.

“Everyone seems to love them.”

Burdett’s specialty is the Raisin Scone, served with fresh whipped cream and strawberry preserves, and another favorite is the Ham & Cheese Scone. Other choices include more exotic varieties, such as the luscious Pineapple Coconut Scone with a powdered sugar glaze.

Opened by Ramsey and her daughter, Erin

Y

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Whited, in 2001, Burdett’s is the kind of place you feel lucky to have found. Sophisticated yet unpretentious, the inviting atmosphere of this shop wraps you up like a warm blanket the moment you step inside. The floors are made from rich pine, wooden dining tables are dressed up with ivory lace tablecloths, and strands of white lights twinkle around the shop, reflecting in at least a hundred shiny tea pots and tea cups that serve as both décor and inventory.

“We sell a lot of tea sets, unique serving pieces, loose tea and gifts, and people enjoy that as much as the food,” Ramsey says. “It pleases me when people say, ‘I’ve never seen this anywhere else.’”

While scones are what Burdett’s is known for, the menu also features handmade soups, quiche, salads and sandwiches, such as the Turkey-Ham Melt and the Red River Reuben.

One of the most unusual things Burdett’s offers, however, is its Tea Plate, which can be prepared for one or two people. It includes scones with cream and jam, mini sandwiches, cheese and crackers, fruit, peanut butter balls, brownies, tarts and other homemade sweets served on a two or three-tiered plate with a pot of steaming-hot tea.

Speaking of tea, Burdett’s appropriately has lots of it. The tea menu features more than a dozen varieties of black and green teas, from the flavorful and brisk Lover’s Leap to the light and bright Countess Grey.

And the customers, Ramsey says, are what makes her job a labor of love.

“When someone says, ‘This was so wonderful and I love coming here,’ ” she says, “It makes you feel like maybe you did something right.”

– Jessica Mozo

The Dish on Burdett’s Throughout the year, our team travels the state in search of good food and friendly service. In each issue, we feature one of Tennessee’s best eateries, and in our opinion, the best dishes to try.

Burdett’s Tea Shop & Trading Company is located at 618 Main St., Springfield, Tenn. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.burdettstea shop.com or call (615) 384-2320.

Visit the Food section of tnhomeandfarm.com for more Tennessee restaurants worth visiting.

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10/27/08 1:29:37 PM

Exclusive Farm Bureau Member Savings TOLL-FREE

(877) 363-9100 Visit our Web site at www.tnfarmbureau.org/valueplus

American Cellular s 3AVE ON CELL PHONES SMART PHONES AND ACCESSORIES s #ALL OR VISIT YOUR LOCAL !MERICAN #ELLULAR LOCATION s 0HONES SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR Offer applies to new activation. 10% cell phones, smart phones and accessories with recommitment to existing contract. www.americancelluar.net (user name and password: tfbf). Available only by calling or visiting American Cellular location.

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AmeriGas Propane s 3AVE CENTS PER GALLON s 6ISIT WWW !MERI'AS COM OR VISIT YOUR 9ELLOW 0AGES TO FIND THE LOCATION NEAREST YOU Offer applies to Tennessee locations only. Some restrictions may apply. See store for details. Residential customers only. Not valid with any other offer. Offer does not apply to SmartPay, Pre-Buy or Guaranteed Price Programs. Call your AmeriGas dealer prior to having your tank filled to receive your discount.

OR GO ONLINE AT www.enterprise.com #ORPORATE RATE PLAN -&!2- 0). 4%.

Prices will reflect your member-only discount.

Posted Internet rates and 1-800 rates may differ.

10% Discount

For the latest Value Plus information and more discounts for Tennessee Farm Bureau members, call the hotline at (877) 363-9100, or e-mail us at valueplus@tfbf.com. Visit our Web site at www.tnfarmbureau.org, and click on the Value Plus quick link.

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10/27/08 2:55:45 PM

Tennessee Farm Bureau Where Membership Means Home and Commercial Security System Discount (ADT)

TENNESSEE FARMERS INS. COs. www.fbitn.com 5.35.7; 0&.16 "*59.(* >

CELLULAR SAVINGS 5** ).,.7&0 4-32* &2) &((*6635.*6

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PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNTS .2

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Present Farm Bureau membership card to participating pharmacy to receive discount. s 3AVINGS AT MOST CHAIN AND MANY independent pharmacies. s .AME BRAND AND GENERIC DRUGS Visit the Agelity section of www.tnfarmbureau.org/valueplus to locate pharmacies and obtain drug pricing.

MONTH MONITORING AGREEMENT REQUIRED AT PER MONTH

CUSTOMER INSTALLATION CHARGE &ORM OF PAYMENT MUST BE BY CREDIT CARD OR ELECTRONIC CHARGE TO YOUR CHECKING OR savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may apply. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new customers only. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined WITH ANY OTHER OFFER 0OWER,INK ,,# 4. #ERT #

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The card is not an insurance benefit and will not offer additional savings on pharmacy discounts offered through insurance plans. Some restrictions may apply.

Vision Discounts s EYE EXAM s OFF FRAMES AND LENSES s #ALL OR VISIT %YECARE #ENTERS of America on the Web @ www.ecca.com. .ASHVILLE s +NOXVILLE s *OHNSON #ITY "RISTOL s +INGSPORT s #LARKSVILLE Discounts cannot be combined with insurance benefits, coupons, promotional offers or any other offer. *10% off usual and customary exam fee for Memphis locations

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10/27/08 2:56:02 PM

1 Travel

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tnfarmbureau.org

10/28/08 10:47:48 AM

1 2

Staff Photo

A Tennessee

Treasure VISITORS COME FROM ALL OVER TO THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS; WHY NOT LOCALS TOO?

STORY BY LAURA HILL

Photo Courtesy of Ryan Sweeney

F

rom snow-capped peaks to marine monsters, Gatlinburg and the Smokies have it all.

For sheer number and variety of things to do, it’s hard to beat the Gatlinburg/ Smoky Mountain region of East Tennessee.

The Smokies themselves offer some of the most dramatically beautiful opportunities to appreciate nature, from sweeping views and quiet waterfall-side picnic spots to top-notch hiking, biking and camping.

And when you’re ready for a change, scads of amusement parks, tourist attractions and shopping malls beckon – not to mention thriving arts-and-crafts communities.

Accommodations are ample and affordable, relaxed restaurants abound, and the good times roll on all year, making this area one of Tennessee’s most popular places for travel.

1/ AH, WILDERNESS! Literally millions of people from around the world visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In fact, it’s the most-visited national park in the country – for good reason.

For starters, admission to the park is free.

Consider that that includes access to 800 miles of maintained trails, a chance to see countless bear, deer, elk and other critters, 1,660 varieties of flowering plants, nearly

The flat terrain of Cades Cove offers a perfect refuge for wildlife and for camping. For a more urban visit, consider the many downtown Gatlinburg attractions, like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. tnhomeandfarm.com

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PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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Travel

Gorgeous views are just one of many reasons to visit the Smoky Mountains. tnhomeandfarm.com

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closed in winter, winds though six scenic miles of the park, offering deep forests, waterfalls and historic farms, ending in Gatlinburg.

nearby Pigeon Forge, country music star Dolly Parton’s theme park, complete with rides, shows and crafts demonstrations.

2 / MAN-MADE FAMILY FUN

3 / GOOD EATS

And speaking of Gatlinburg, no place in Tennessee offers more in the way of tourist fun than this mountain city on the edge of the park.

Take the country’s largest aerial tram up the mountain to Ober Gatlinburg for skiing, shopping and a full-scale amusement park.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a perennial family favorite, a 1.4-million-gallon aquarium with more than 10,000 underwater creatures.

Another neat attraction in the Ripley’s family is the Believe It or Not! Museum in Gatlinburg, where visitors can see odd artifacts from all over the world.

For an indoor thrill, try the Motion Ride Theater, where your seat moves you through any of 11 movies.

The Guinness World Records Museum offers hundreds of exhibits based on the popular annual record book. Then there’s the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, a unique collection of more than 17,000 shakers.

And don’t forget Dollywood in

Food in this part of the world is all about good Southern cookin’ – and lots of it. Come hungry to Gatlinburg’s Pancake Pantry, where the breakfast menu is worth the wait.

The Hofbrau House Restaurant and Cheese Cupboard is popular for its Reuben sandwiches and bratwurst.

The Buckhorn Inn offers fine dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

4 / ARTS AND CULTURE Gatlinburg and nearby Townsend are both arts and crafts communities; Gatlinburg alone has more than 450 shops, ranging from handmade brooms and pottery to high-end jewelry and baskets.

Check out the Arrowcraft Shop for especially fine work by the Southern Highland Craft Guild, and visit the Arrowmont School of Art and Craft, a world-renowned center.

The Sevier County Heritage Museum offers local history, and the Tennessee Museum of Aviation in nearby Sevierville features 50,000 square feet devoted to museum exhibits.

Staff Photo

80 historic structures and peaks that soar as high as 6,643 feet, and you can appreciate what a tremendous bargain that is. There’s an awesome variety of things to do within the park – way too many to describe here, so check out the park’s Web site (www.nps.gov/grsm) to download a comprehensive trip planner before you go. Here are a few highlights: Cades Cove (a cove is a flat area between mountains) is one of the park’s most visited spots, where you might well spot deer, wild turkey and foxes. You can drive an 11-mile loop around the cove or stop and walk around.

Massive Thunderhead Mountain looms above the cove, and a number of historic buildings from the mid-19th and early 20th centuries are found here, among them several churches, an old grist mill and log homes.

Several walking trails begin here, including one to Rocky Top, which lends its name to the state song.

Newfound Gap Road takes you to the midpoint of the park, where North Carolina and Tennessee meet, allowing you to visit two states simultaneously. Clingman’s Dome (road closed in winter), the highest point in the state of Tennessee, is reached at the end of a half-mile hike. On a clear day, it’s said you can see seven states from the observation tower.

Laurel Falls is one of the park’s most popular destinations, an 80-foothigh wonder. See elk, successfully reintroduced into the park, at Cataloochee, a quiet mountain-ringed valley where a number of historic buildings are located.

At Oconaluftee you’ll find a visitors’ center, historic buildings, the Mountain Farm Museum and an easy, 1.5-mile, stroller-accessible trail.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail,

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Food for Thought Nourish your stomach and your soul with a trio of titles now available from the Tennessee Farm Bureau.

Country Classics Volumes I and II feature some of the best recipes in the state – all tried-and-true favorites from members of the Farm Bureau Women’s Committee.

Volume I is available for $13, including tax and shipping; Volume II costs $17.

When you’re ready for after-dinner reading, enjoy Tennessee Country, an impressive coffee-table book filled with stunning color photography by Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Robin Hood and moving essays by noted Tennessee writers ($30, including tax and shipping).

All three books are available through your local Farm Bureau office or by calling (931) 388-7872, ext. 2217.

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tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:33:53 PM

Family Security

After the Storm DON’T WAIT UNTIL CATASTROPHE TO REVIEW YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE bout this time last year a series of tornadoes swept across West and Middle Tennessee, causing more than $100 million in property damage to Farm Bureau Insurance customers.

Not long ago I had a chance to visit with a couple in Lafayette who were lucky, along with their two daughters, to escape with their lives.

The terrified family huddled in a bedroom closet as the winds lifted the end of the house twice. The third gust sucked the father out the bedroom window and blew him, his house and his family down the road.

The mother and girls landed in a blizzard of debris in a nearby yard; the father, unconscious, didn’t remember his trip through the air. He came to his senses a little farther away beside a neighbor’s mailbox.

The family groped to locate each other in the dark. The girls were not seriously injured, but the parents were a different matter. Mom’s left shoulder was shattered and three ribs were

A

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broken. The father’s upper left arm was snapped and a lung was collapsed.

They struggled to a nearby house that had withstood the winds, and the mother and father were taken to the hospital in Lebanon, where they would remain for days.

On their second day in the hospital, a check arrived from Farm Bureau Insurance to replace their home and contents. The next day brought another check to cover their destroyed vehicles.

The day I visited this family, you could still see the pain and shock in their eyes, but you could also see the pride in their new home, built just a few feet from the old foundation.

While others were still wrangling with their insurance companies, this family was moved in and starting anew.

They talked about how much it meant for Farm Bureau Insurance to pay so quickly and spare them the hassles some of their neighbors were still facing. They did have one regret. They hadn’t bought quite enough coverage to replace all their home contents.

There was a time when many insurance companies, including Farm Bureau Insurance, actually preferred for homeowners to underinsure their properties. The theory was that a homeowner would be more careful when assuming some of the risk.

But those days are long gone. There have been too many cases where homeowners have been devastated to learn they could only rebuild half or three-fourths of their home. A lingering tragedy of Hurricane Katrina is the thousands of homes that will never be replaced because they were not insured for anywhere near full value.

Every Farm Bureau Insurance customer is scheduled for a review every four years.

The idea is to make sure homes – and their contents – are valued correctly, and that other assets such as the ability to earn a living are properly secured.

It is easy to undervalue the contents of a home. New appliances are purchased, valuables are amassed, collections gain value, items are inherited. There’s no doubt we accumulate stuff as we go through life.

You don’t have to wait on your Farm Bureau Insurance agent to contact you for your regular customer review – and you certainly don’t want to wait for a catastrophe. If you think it’s time to re-evaluate, give your agent a call.

About the Author Dan Batey is communications specialist for Tennessee Farm Bureau Insurance and can be reached at dbatey@tfbf.com.

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To Good Health

Front-Porch Comfort SIMPLIFYING HEALTH-CARE DECISIONS FOR SENIORS t was just a streak, a white blur of fur that raced by our feet as Grandpa and I opened the front door of his small, white-frame house. It was “his” house now, I suppose, because Grandma was no longer there.

And I guess that’s really where this story begins, a story about a major distraction during a major time in Grandpa’s life. I was just a sophomore in college when I offered to take Grandpa home; he had stayed with my parents for a few days following the sudden death of his wife of 55 years. It would be the first time Grandpa had re-entered the house without her.

I

I spent a good part of many summers there, many an evening rocking on that very front porch I now so dreaded to approach with Grandpa. How would he handle it? How would I handle it? Grandma had always done everything at the house while Grandpa labored away at the sawmill. The house was her comfortable place, where she truly felt “at home” and in control.

I’m certain those thoughts raced through our minds as we stepped up to the porch and unlocked the door. But we were immediately – and I believe providentially – distracted by the white blur. Somehow, some way, during all the hustle and bustle of leaving the house following the funeral, a stray cat Grandpa fed and named simply, “White Cat,” had been locked up inside the house. Grandma would never let a cat in the house, but this one had now been trapped inside for nearly a week.

This young collegian was not prepared for what I saw as I ventured in. Pictures askew or knocked completely off their walls. Curtains pulled down, some torn. Not a single chair or sofa had escaped from being re-covered in cat hair. Anything sitting out on dressers or other furniture had been knocked around by the cat.

Grandpa could only slump down in his chair and groan, “My gosh.” I was also void of house-cleaning skills, but with Grandma gone, I had no choice. I scrubbed, straightened, washed and cleaned for days.

Looking back today, “White Cat” was a tnhomeandfarm.com

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perfect surprise, a perfectly timed distraction for a senior citizen who had lost his dearest companion. And though on a less-significant level, there are a host of distractions today that are not perfect surprises for our Ma’s and Grandpa’s as they try to sort through choices for their health care protection. The world of Medicare – with its supplements, Part D and Advantage plans – results in a barrage of information this time of year to the homes of senior citizens. It can be an almost-frightening experience to open that door.

At TRH Health Plans, we understand that feeling. After all, we’re part of one of the biggest families in Tennessee, the Farm Bureau family. And we’ve got nearly 55,000 Tennesseans, 65 years and older, covered with a Medicare supplement plan.

Amid all the distractions about what works and what doesn’t when it comes to health care for our seniors, we’re tried and true. We’ll never pretend to be as comfortable as Grandma’s house, but you can pull up a chair and talk with a TRH Health Plans representative at any Farm Bureau office in the state.

About the Author Anthony Kimbrough is vice president of marketing and government relations for TRH Health Plans. His e-mail is akimbrough@trh.com.

For more information about TRH Health Plans, call (877) 874-8323 or visit www.trh.com.

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Events & Festivals

Enjoy the beauty of the holiday season at the many festivals of lights across the state.

Tennessee Events & Festivals This listing includes events of statewide interest scheduled in December, January and February as provided by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

Dates were accurate at press time but are subject to change; please call the contact listed before traveling long distances to attend.

To include your local events in our listing, please call the Tennessee Department of Tourism at (615) 741-7994. Events are included as space permits. Additional information on Tennessee events is also available online through the department’s Web site, www.tnvacation.com.

DECEMBER NOV. 18-JAN. 1

A CELEBRATION CHRISTMAS Historic Celebration Grounds, Shelbyville A festival of lights designed to be the Christmas gift to the community and region that supports the world famous Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever, with nearly 100 set pieces and over 150,000 lights. CONTACT: The Celebration, (931) 684-5915, www.twhnc.com NOV. 21-JAN. 3

SPEEDWAY IN LIGHTS Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway, Bristol

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A drive-through course that features more than 1.5 million lights and over 200 animated displays. The route allows spectators to drive on the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile,” as well as the dragstrip.

CONTACT: (423) 989-6970, www.bristolmotorspeedway.com NOV. 28-DEC. 30

ZOO LIGHTS Memphis Zoo, Memphis Come see the wildest holiday lights in town.

Enjoy twinkling lights, Santa Claus and his reindeer, horse-drawn wagon rides, holiday shopping, and more. CONTACT: (901) 333-6500, www.memphiszoo.org DEC. 1

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK Cove Lake State Park, Caryville

Features 2,500 luminaries, the lighting of the Christmas tree, refreshments, children’s crafts and activities, dance performances, Santa, caroling and more.

CONTACT: Park Office, (423) 566-9701 DEC. 1-7

141st INTERNATIONAL AMERICAN WATERCOLOR SOCIETY’S EXHIBITION Tullahoma Fine Arts Center, Tullahoma The city of Tullahoma is honored to be one of six cities in the United States to host this annual juried traveling exhibit. CONTACT: Lucy Hollis, (931) 455-1234 DEC. 3-20

CHRISTMAS PAST TOURS James White’s Fort, Knoxville Experience the frontier lifestyle through hands-on interpretation of open-hearth cooking, blacksmithing and spinning.

CONTACT: (865) 525-6514, www.knoxalliance.com DEC. 4-5

CHRISTMAS IN THE MOUNTAINS Frozen Head State Park, Wartburg Drive through the park and see live nativity scenes, displays and more.

CONTACT: Gigi Schooler, (423) 346-5740, www.morgancountychamber.com tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:29:43 PM

DEC. 4-5

CHRISTMAS IN OLDE GREENE

DEC. 6

Greeneville Lighting of the tree on the courthouse lawn, caroling and carriage rides. Merchants serve refreshments, and you will see folks in period costume enjoying the festivities.

CONTACT: Main Street: Greeneville, 423-639-7102, mainstreetgreeneville.com

ADOPT A TREE AT WARRIORS’ PATH STATE PARK

DEC. 4-5

CHRISTMAS WITH THE LINCOLNS Abraham Lincoln Library & Museum, Harrogate Christmas with the Lincolns is a longrunning, very popular program celebrating the Christmas season during the Civil War years. The play showcases the White House Christmas celebration and the sometimesmeager Christmas celebrations of soldiers.

CONTACT: Carol Campbell, (800) 325-0900, www.lmunet.edu/museum.html

Event Location Kingsport Come help plant our future woodlands. For every tree you plant in the park, you get to take one home to plant on your own. CONTACT: Warriors’ Path State Park, (423) 239-8531

DEC. 5, 12 & 19

DEC. 6

DEC. 6

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY

CONFEDERATE CHRISTMAS BALL

VISIONS OF CHRISTMAS 1861

Livingston Town Square Includes carriage rides, Christmas music, Santa and more. CONTACT: (931) 823-2218, www.overtonco.com DEC. 5-6

CHRISTMAS AT CARTER MANSION Elizabethton Spend the evening in this 18th century home, built on the frontier around 1775. Features beautiful interior craftsmanship and is decorated for Christmas in 1780s style.

Includes costumed interpreters, candlelight, refreshments and music. CONTACT: (423) 543-6140, www.sycamoreshoals.org DEC. 5-6 & 12-13

A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS AT ROCKY MOUNT Rocky Mount Museum, Piney Flats A candlelight Christmas at the Cobb House, circa 1791, as it was celebrated then with traditional decorations, activities, food and fun complete with interpretation by the Cobb family. CONTACT: (888) 538-1796, www.rockymountmuseum.com DEC. 5-28

FESTIVAL OF TREES Ocoee Whitewater Center, Copperhill See trees such as Most Imaginative, Best Children’s Tree, Best Homemade Ornaments, Best Nature Theme, Best Historical Theme and Most Community Spirit. These imaginative creations by local businesses, schools, and organizations are designed to delight and inspire you. CONTACT: James Whitener, (423) 496-0102, www.ocoeecountry.com tnhomeandfarm.com

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Memorial Building, Columbia Step back in time and fill your dance card as you swirl the floor to authentic reels, promenades and waltzes popular during the 1860s. CONTACT: (888) 852-1860, www.antebellum.com DEC. 6

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Downtown Historic District, Savannah Experience Savannah as it was in the 19th century with a tour of homes, horse-drawn buggy rides through the historic district, a Victorian Ball with period music, children’s activities and more. CONTACT: (800) 552-3866, www.hardincountychamber.com DEC. 6

OAKLANDS CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES Oaklands Historic House Museum, Murfreesboro Usher in the holiday season with an enchanting tour of historic homes. The tour will feature beautiful and historic private homes and the graceful Oaklands Historic House Museum. CONTACT: (615) 893-0022, www.oaklandsmuseum.org

Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, Johnson City Join the Haynes family as they celebrate a Civil War Christmas. CONTACT: (423) 926-3631, www.tipton-haynes.org DEC. 6

CHRISTMAS IN COLLIERVILLE Historic Collierville Town Square Shop at the many quaint stores, take a carriage ride and listen to the performances in the bandstand. CONTACT: Main Street Collierville, (901) 853-1666, www.mainstreetcollierville.com DEC. 6

25th ANNUAL GILES COUNTY HISTORICAL HOME TOUR Pulaski Enjoy a day touring some of Giles County’s most beautiful historical homes. CONTACT: (931) 363-3789, www.gilescountytourism.com DEC. 6

YULEFEST: A 1780 CHRISTMAS

DEC. 6

Historic Mansker’s Station Frontier Life Center, Goodlettsville Welcome in the holiday season with lively music and entertainment in 1780s fashion.

Costumed docents share stories, give demonstrations and sing carols. CONTACT: (615) 859-FORT, www.sumnercvb.com

CHRISTMAS IN LYNCHBURG

DEC. 6 & 13

Lynchburg This old-time event includes carolers on the Lynchburg Square, tours of the city’s oldest antebellum homes, a concert, parade and more. CONTACT: (931) 759-4111, www.lynchburgtenn.com

CHRISTMAS AT HISTORIC RUGBY Historic Rugby Enjoy beautifully decorated, lamp lit-historic buildings, classical music, early Rugby Home&Farm

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Events & Festivals

colonist re-enactors, old-fashioned caroling with hot wassail and more.

CONTACT: (888) 214-3400, www.historicrugby.org DEC. 6 & 13

POLAR EXPRESS SANTA EXCURSION TRAIN Nashville to Watertown Children will love this Santa train excursion during the holidays. CONTACT: Heather Spillman, (800) 789-1327, www.tcry.org

DEC. 6-7

DEC. 7-23

CHRISTMAS GARRISON AT FORT WATAUGA

CLARKSVILLE TREES OF CHRISTMAS

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area, Elizabethton Ring in the Christmas season with the Company of Overmountain Men as they celebrate with living history demonstrations of the 18th century.

CONTACT: (423) 543-5808, www.sycamoreshoals.org

Smith Trahern Mansion, Clarksville More than 20 Christmas trees displayed at the mansion. CONTACT: Martha Pile, (931) 648-5725, www.cityofclarksville.com DEC. 8-24

CHRISTMAS IN OLD APPALACHIA

DEC. 6-7

DEC. 6-7

ROCKWOOD CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY Exchange Place, Kingsport An old-fashioned Christmas with fresh greenery, frontier crafts, gifts, yule log burning and food from a historic farmstead.

CONTACT: (423) 288-6071, www.exchangeplace.us

Rockwood Begin your tour of Rockwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historical homes and experience the Christmas spirit with the gracious hospitality of the homeowners as you tour their lovely homes and learn about their history. Tour starts at Live & Let Live Drug Store. CONTACT: Judy Wassam, (865) 354-2877, www.rockwood2000.com

DEC. 9

CRAGFONT CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Castalian Springs Historic Cragfont will be traditionally decorated for Christmas, and refreshments will be served. CONTACT: (615) 452-7070, www.sumnercvb.com

ANNUAL CROCKETT CHRISTMAS Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park, Limestone Crockett Christmas is a living history event that will provide visitors a glimpse into Christmas on the frontier. The birthplace cabin will be decorated in pioneer Christmas spirit. Traditional music will be provided along with hot cider and edibles. The path to the cabin will be lit by candlelight, and a nice warm campfire will be outside the cabin. CONTACT: (423) 257-2167

DEC. 6-7

RAMSEY HOUSE PLANTATION CANDLELIGHT TOURS Knoxville Candlelight tours of the historic home.

CONTACT: (865) 546-0745 13. Publication Title

2. Publication Number

0 2 2

Tennessee Home & Farm 4. Issue Frequency

_

3. Filing Date

3 0

5

5. Number of Issues Published Annually

4

Quarterly

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

Tennessee Home & Farm

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation 1. Publication Title

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4)

September 2008

15.

a.

Extent and Nature of Circulation Total Number of Copies (Net press run)

Telephone

931-388-7872

Paid In-County Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541 b. Paid and/or (2) (Include advertiser's proof and exchange copies) Requested Circulation (3) Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)

Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)

Pettus Read, 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401 Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

d.

Free Distribution

by Mail (Samples, compliment ary, and other free)

Pettus Read, 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401

f.

Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

g.

Pettus Read, 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401

h.

10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.)

Complete Mailing Address

Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation

628,127

623,324

628,127

(1) Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541 (2) In-County as Stated on Form 3541 (3) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS

e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means)

Full Name

636,277

623,324

(4) Other Classes Mailed Through the USPS c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation [Sum of 15b. (1), (2),(3),and (4)]

147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401

i.

Total Free Distribution (Sum of 15d. and 15e.)

Total Distribution (Sum of 15c. and 15f) Copies not Distributed Total (Sum of 15g. and h.)

j. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c. divided by 15g. times 100)

774

775

6925

6925

7699

7700

631,023

635,827

450

450

631,473

636,277

99

16. Publication of Statement of Ownership Dec. 2008 (Winter) issue of this publication.

Publication required. Will be printed in the ________________________ 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

99

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonme nt) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

Instructions to Publishers

Full Name

None Complete Mailing Address

12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (Check one) The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months Has Changed During Preceding 12 Months (Publisher must submit explanation of change with this statement) PS Form 3526, October 1999

44

(See Instructions on Reverse)

Home&Farm |Winter 2009

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1.

Complete and file one copy of this form with your postmaster annually on or before October 1. Keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

2.

In cases where the stockholder or security holder is a trustee, include in items 10 and 11 the name of the person or corporation for whom the trustee is acting. Also include the names and addresses of individuals who are stockholders who own or hold 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities of the publishing corporation. In item 11, if none, check the box. Use blank sheets if more space is required.

3.

Be sure to furnish all circulation information called for in item 15. Free circulation must be shown in items 15d, e, and f.

4.

Item 15h., Copies not Distributed, must include (1) newsstand copies originally stated on Form 3541, and returned to the publisher, (2) estimated returns from news agents, and (3), copies for office use, leftovers, spoiled, and all other copies not distributed.

5.

If the publication had Periodicals authorization as a general or requester publication, this Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation must be published; it must be printed in any issue in October or, if the publication is not published during October, the first issue printed after October.

6.

In item 16, indicate the date of the issue in which this Statement of Ownership will be published.

7.

Item 17 must be signed.

Failure to file or publish a statement of ownership may lead to suspension of Periodicals authorization.

PS Form 3526, October 1999 (Reverse)

FOURTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK Pickwick Landing State Park, Pickwick Dam Features a Holiday Mart, drive-through lighted displays, carriage and trolley rides, cookies with Santa and his elves and more.

CONTACT: (800) 552-3866, www.tourhardincounty.org DEC. 12-14

CHRISTMAS LIGHTING Chickasaw State Park, Henderson The park will have a quarter of a million lights and 2,500 candle luminaries. The driving tour is a sight to behold and a great way to feel the spirit of the season.

CONTACT: (731)-989-5141 DEC. 13

Publication not required.

Date

09/03/08

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities. If none, check box

DEC. 12-13

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date

631,473

Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions Stated on (1) Form 3541. (Include advertiser's proof and exchange copies)

included in member dues Contact Person

Tullahoma Sights and musical sounds of an oldfashioned Christmas in Tullahomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic district. CONTACT: Debi Graham, (931) 455-2648, www.tullahoma-tn.com

September 2008 (Fall) Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

6. Annual Subscription Price

Pettus Read 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401

OLDE TOWN CHRISTMAS STROLL

DEC. 6-7

DEC. 6-7

United States Postal Service

Museum of Appalachia, Norris Christmas in turn-of-century structures including a pioneer cabin, the gaily decorated Homestead House, old-time musicians and the old log school house decorated by local school children.

CONTACT: (865) 494-7680, www.museumofappalachia.org

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS TOUR AT FORT SOUTHWEST POINT Kingston Experience the sights, sounds and flavors of the 18th century. Historical stories told by uniformed soldiers and living history interpreters. CONTACT: Mike Woody, (865) 376-3641, www.southwestpoint.com tnfarmbureau.org

10/27/08 1:29:55 PM

The perfect holiday gift for your favorite cook!

Down-Home Dumplings

ON SALE

N OW

Recipes From the World’s Greatest Down-Home Dumplin’ Cook-Off!

Order Early for Holiday Delivery

Just in time for holiday feasting! Here’s your chance to own – and give – the world’s best collection of chicken and dumpling recipes. Down-Home Dumplings is filled with more than 70 recipes entered

by TFB members in the World’s Greatest Down-Home Dumplin’ Cook-Off contest (including those of the grand-prize winner and four finalists). Dumpling experts and novices alike will enjoy reading the stories and trying out the different variations of these treasured family recipes!

Order by mail or online.

DOWN-HOME DUMPLINGS ORDER FORM

Purchase online: tnhomeandfarm.com

Send to: Name: ____________________________________________

Quantity: ______ @ $9.95 _______

Address: __________________________________________

Sales tax Quantity: ____ x .92 sales tax ____ (TN residents add 9.25% sales tax)

City: ______________________________________________

Postage: first book @ $3.99 ______ additional books ____ @ .99 ______ Total amount: ___________________

Make check payable to Journal Communications 1 book = $14.86

State: __________________________ ZIP: ______________

2 books = $26.72 Includes 3 books = $38.58 shipping & 4 books = $50.44 sales tax

Daytime phone #: __________________________________

5 books = $62.30

By mail: c/o Journal Communications Retail Fulfillment Center 725 Cool Springs Blvd, Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067

Orders must be received by Dec. 12 for Christmas delivery THF

Tennessee Home & Farm presents:

Quantity: ______ @ $9.95 ____________ Sales tax Quantity: _____ x $0.92 sales tax ______ (TN residents add 9.25% sales tax) Postage: first book @ $3.99 ___________ additional books ____ @ .99 ___________ Total amount: ________________________ Make check payable to Journal Communications 1 book = $14.86

4 books = $50.44

2 books = $26.72

5 books = $62.30

3 books = $38.58

Includes shipping & sales tax

Send to: Name: _______________________________ Address: _____________________________

As author Pettus Read puts it, “country has been around for a long time.” In this book of his favorite Read All About It columns from the past 30-plus years, Read discusses pulley bones, the disappearance of stick horses, Christmases at Mop-Ma’s and the ever popular Uncle Sid and Aunt Sadie. Full of Read’s wisdom and wit, this Rural Psychology Primer will likely stir up your own feelings of nostalgia for the country way of life.

City: _________________________________ State: ________________ Zip: __________ Daytime phone #: _____________________ By mail: Journal Communications Inc. c/o Retail Fulfillment Center 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400 Franklin, TN 37067

Portion of proceeds to benefit Tennessee 4-H and FFA programs. tnhomeandfarm.com

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Events & Festivals

DEC. 13

ROGERSVILLE CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES Rogersville Rogersville’s most lovely historic homes will be decorated for Christmas and open to the public. CONTACT: (423) 272-1961, www.rogersvilleheritage.org DEC. 13

CHRISTMAS AT CANNONSBURGH Cannonsburgh Village, Murfreesboro The spirit of Christmas will thrive as fresh greenery adorns the mantles and wood fires crackle in the hearths. Sheep will be tended to by a shepherd, and classical to contemporary music, caroling, dance and storytelling will fill the 18th century rooms. Hot cider and cookies served.

CONTACT: Cannonsburgh Village, (615) 890-0355

Tour amazing log cabins in Giles County.

CONTACT: Carolyn Thompson, (931) 468-0668, www.gilescountytourism.com DEC. 13-14

HISTORIC CORNSTALK HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS TOUR Harriman Enjoy a tour of the finely decorated Victorian homes, churches and more. CONTACT: Donna Demyanovich, (865) 882-9230, www.cornstalkheights.org DEC. 13-14

DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS Downtown Franklin Victorian holiday festival featuring more than 200 costumed characters from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday arts and crafts, street performers, and Victorian treats. CONTACT: Heritage Foundation, (615) 591-8500, www.historicfranklin.com DEC. 27

DEC. 13

ELKTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY LOG CABIN TOUR Elkton

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community. This is a great event with food, history and fun. CONTACT: African American Cultural Alliance, (615) 251-0007, www.aacanashville.org

25th ANNUAL KWANZAA CELEBRATION Gordon Memorial Church, Nashville Kwanzaa commemorates family, culture and

DEC. 29

PRESIDENTIAL WREATH LAY & BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION Andrew Johnson National Cemetery, Greeneville Presidential wreath laying at the grave of President Andrew Johnson on his 200th birthday. A celebration is planned featuring entertainment and birthday cake.

Luminaries will adorn the national cemetery for this evening program culminating with fireworks celebrating Andrew Johnson. CONTACT: Jim Small, (423) 639-3711, www.nps.gov/anjo DEC. 29

GILES COUNTY’S NEW YEAR’S EVE BICENTENNIAL KICKOFF Pulaski Courthouse Square Food, entertainment and fireworks will fill the night in celebration of Giles County’s 200th birthday! This family affair will be fun for all ages. CONTACT: (931) 363-3789, www.pulaskigilescountybicentennial.com

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Events & Festivals

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

JAN. 10

FEB. 1-28

WINTER GARDEN SEMINAR

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Warriors’ Path State Park, Kingsport Winter is a perfect time to plan for the upcoming growing season. To help you get started, expert gardeners and landscape conservationists will share their talents and knowledge with you.

CONTACT: (423) 239-8531

National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis Memphis takes time this month to celebrate the culture, contributions and trailblazers of African Americans with educational workshops, lectures, exhibitions and events.

CONTACT: (901) 521-9699, www.civilrightsmuseum.org

JAN. 10-17

FEB. 5-8

19th ANNUAL WILDERNESS WILDLIFE WEEK

ANTIQUES & GARDEN SHOW

Music Road Convention Center, Pigeon Forge Eight days devoted to the history, mystery, fact, folklore and future of the Great Smoky Mountains. CONTACT: (800) 251-9100, www.mypigeonforge.com/wildlife JAN. 16-17

MEMPHIS MOUNTAIN DULCIMER GATHERING Memphis Workshops for mountain and hammered dulcimer, guitar and song featuring Mollie McCormack and Tom and Cathy Arnold.

CONTACT: (901) 877-7763, www.leecagledulcimers.com JAN. 17-18

CHEROKEE INDIAN HERITAGE & SANDHILL CRANE VIEWING DAYS Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, Decatur This annual event pays tribute to Cherokee Indian heritage and the more than 10,000 sandhill cranes at the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge. Activities include nature and raptor shows, heritage talks, Cherokee arts, crafts, and artifacts, and traditional old-time and gospel music.

Visitors can ride a free bus shuttle from the school to the viewing area at the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge. CONTACT: Meigs County Tourism, (423) 334-5850, www.southeasttennessee.com JAN. 29-MARCH 22

STITCHES-IN-TIME QUILT EXHIBIT Museum Center at 5ive Points, Cleveland Features over 90 quilts submitted from throughout the Southeast for this judged exhibit. Both antique and contemporary quilts are on display. New this year is a Quilt Challenge based on the theme of Tennessee in the Great Depression.

CONTACT: (423) 339-5745, www.museumcenter.org tnhomeandfarm.com

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FEB. 21

ANNUAL ANTIQUE APPRAISAL FAIR & SHOW Greeneville High School, Greeneville Features more than 40 vendors showcasing and selling antiques and up to six appraisers assessing the value of antiques brought in by the public. CONTACT: Greene County Partnership, (423) 638-4111, www.visitgreenevilletn.com

Nashville Convention Center, Nashville Featuring innovative gardens, fine antiques and select garden accessories for sale.

CONTACT: (800) 891-8075, www.antiquesandgardenshow.com FEB. 6-8

REELFOOT LAKE EAGLE FESTIVAL Reelfoot Lake State Park, Tiptonville Includes eagle watch tours, vendors, storytelling, crafts, art contest, scavenger hunt and more. CONTACT: (888) 313-8366, www.reelfoottourism.com FEB. 7 & 13-14

VALENTINE DINNER TRAIN Tennessee Valley Railroad, Chattanooga Take your Valentine for a rail excursion trip and enjoy a romantic four-course dinner while on board. Enjoy a leisurely trip though parts of Chattanooga and North Georgia.

Reservations required. CONTACT: (423) 894-8028, www.tvrail.com

15th Annual Christmas Toy Train Show SPONSORED BY: MUSIC CITY CHAPTER TRAIN COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION

WHERE: TENNESSEE STATE FAIRGROUNDS AGRICULTURAL BUILDING, Nashville, TN. (Wedgewood exit on I-65 S.) Plenty of free parking available.

FEB. 20-22

DOGWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL HOUSE & GARDEN SHOW Knoxville Convention Center, Knoxville Over 200 exhibitors, professionally landscaped gardens, roomscapes, speakers and workshops. Everything for the home and garden enthusiast! CONTACT: (865) 637-4561, www.dogwoodarts.com

WHEN: SAT. DECEMBER 13, 2008 The show is open to the general public.

Opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m.

ADMISSION: $6.00 per person — children 12 and under are FREE! SPECIAL DRAWING FOR TWO LIONEL TRAIN SETS — FOR CHILDREN ONLY

FEB. 20-28

SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN HOMECOMING South Jackson Civic Center, Tullahoma The Sanders family is back in an all-new show by the creators of the playhouse hits “Smoke on the Mountain” and “Sanders Family Christmas.” The play takes place in October 1945. The War is over and America’s years of prosperity are just beginning, but there is another kind of rite of passage at the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church.

CONTACT: (931) 581-7767, www.communityplayhouse.org

Trains will be available for children to play with and experience! Watch actual operating layouts of all sizes in action!

COME AND FIND: Train parts, train objects, trains to operate, train books, collectable trains, new electric trains, refurbished trains.

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RIVERFRONT RANCH • Almost One Mile • All Accessible • Private 61 Acres • Rolling Hills • Calfkiller River in White Co.

$995,000 (931) 260-6068 or (931) 526-3759

Marketplace

Bakery www.gibsongoodies.com

Business Opportunities www.DreamBigBBold.com, www.smile1234.com

Real Estate

Visit Our Advertisers Products for Good www.giftsforpatriots8.com

Chevy Dealers: Chattanooga, Nashville, Knoxville www.gm.com

Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation www.tnfarmbureau.org

Farm Credit Services www.e-farmcredit.com

Tennessee Farmers Insurance Companies www.fbitn.com

Farmers Services Inc. www.fbtaxservice.com

26 acres hunting land Possum Hollow Rd., Dekalb Co., TN. Wooded. 700 ft. road frontage on gravel. Electricity. Owner financing with 20% downpayment. $50,000. (931) 224-9077 ralphnorthcutt@ hotmail.com

Tennessee Rural Health Plans www.trh.com

Jack’s Roost Ranch Lem Products Inc. www.gorillaglue.com

Train Collectors Association – Music City Chapter www.dixiedivisiontca.com

Littleton Coin

Your Man Tours

Vacation Rentals Cozy Clean Creekside Cabin in Cosby. Reasonable Rates. www. bearfootproperties.com (812) 779-6143.

Cumberland Plateau www.grandviewmountaincottages.com

Tenne sse e

Home & Farm READ PAST ISSUES

Linden Perry County Historical Hotel hunting and other outdoor fun. www. commodorehotellinden.com (931) 589-3224

SEARCH FOR RECIPES

COMMENT ON YOUR FAVORITE ARTICLES

Cabins & chalets in Pigeon Forge.

(800) 382-4393, www.pantherknob.com

WATCH OUR COOKING VIDEOS

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Home&Farm |Winter 2009

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View From the Back Porch

Winter Wonderland BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE – AND THAT’S NOT BAD hen I met the Wisest Woman I’ve Ever Known, I was still a die-hard winter hater.

I hated temperatures that demanded hats and scarves and gloves. I despised numb feet, coming home from work in the dark, frozen car door handles, treacherous sidewalks that promised broken limbs. I loathed snow. All of it. As far as I could see, the only good things about winter were fireplaces, hot chocolate and the Winter Olympics on television.

Winter, to me, was a seasonal curse. In fact, having literally been blown over by a bitter wind on Riverside Drive one February, winter became a major reason I fled New York for the South years ago. Let others ice skate in Rockefeller Center or sled in Central Park.

I was leaving behind frozen fingers and muddy boots in favor of the promised land of November barbecues and March daffodils.

Imagine my chagrin when the first snow arrived in Nashville that year, albeit in January and not late fall, and with it my acquaintance with Middle Tennessee’s infamous ice storms.

I won’t dwell on our local drivers’ reaction to winter, which seemed to be guided by two cardinal rules: When it’s snowing or sleeting, drive as fast as you can to the grocery and then race home. And be sure to hit the brake as hard as you can every time you see another car.

Clearly, I had not escaped winter altogether.

There was still the boredom of those long, dark winter months, the unwelcoming blast of chilly air just outside the storm door, and the stripped tree branches, brick-hard earth, and endless days of leaden skies. Each December I found myself facing discontent of a too-long

W

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season that inflicted itself on us with inescapable regularity.

Then came the Wisest Woman I Ever Met. A native of rural Middle Tennessee, she was both contemplative and widely read in worldly literature, from Lao Tzu to Shakespeare to Whitman. Her understanding of the natural world and its seasons was the deepest and most appreciative of anyone I had ever met.

She loved winter, she gently explained to my amazement, although she had not always felt that way. But she had slowly come to the realization that winter was not the bleak, lifeless stretch of time it seemed to be, a time of stasis and withered inactivity. She had come to look at winter as one of the most vital times of the year, not as showy as spring or as dramatic as autumn or as boundless as summer, but bursting with its own private energy.

She taught me that while we may not see it in these darker months, every tree branch, every frozen inch of earth, every iced-over pond is harboring life in its most essential stage, at rest and readying itself for the spring that is to follow. Not dead – very much alive.

Without that rest, there would be no spring.

Winter, as she saw it, is a hard-earned and happy necessity, a time Nature regroups and gets ready to burst forth again in full measure.

And it also cues us two-legged creatures of Nature. Take time to rest. Take time, in this spare season, to contemplate the richness of seasons behind and those ahead. Take time to rejuvenate and reconsider what snowy fields and ice-trimmed trees obscure from our impatient eyes.

Winter – a wonderland indeed.

About the Author Laura Hill is a freelance writer who lives in Franklin. She still thinks the Winter Olympics, on television, in front of a toasty hearth, is one of the season’s delights.

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