Outdoorlife6 20 2013web

NORTHEAST TENNESSEE TOURISM ASSOCIATION and the

Elizabethton Star present

outdoor life spring- summer 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO REGIONAL ADVENTURES

Picnic favorites Summer recipes

Better burgers Less is more

Old Butler Days Celebrating heritage

Day trippin’ Regional destinations

Covered Bridge Celebration Expanding to four days in 2013

Kayaking • Fishing • Biking • Grilling • Golfing

This is where you will find success.

How will you protect your future? Where can you go to build a better life?

These were the questions early settlers faced as they set out to settle this region. They found that surviving and thriving in an unfamiliar landscape required hard work, unflagging determination, and the willingness to forge strong friendships to meet each obstacle.

Today’s work world is no less challenging. Fifty-four percent of all jobs in Tennessee (1.8 million) will require some postsecondary training beyond high school in 2018.* Higher education has always served as the place where young and old develop workplace-ready skills while forging lifelong friendships necessary to build a better life and protect their futures.

Northeast State at Elizabethton has served the citizens of Carter, Johnson, and Unicoi counties since 1996. Isn’t it time you upgraded your skills for the new economy?

We know you want to have a better life. Let Northeast State help. After all, “we’re here to get you there”.

*from “The Complete College TN Act One Year Later: Moving Forward”. Available from tn.gov/thec/complete_college_tn/ccta_files/moving_forward/Full Materials.PDF

Northeast State at Elizabethton 386 Highway 91N Elizabethton, TN 37643 Outdoor Life | Page 2

423.547.8450 ckyoung@NortheastState.edu www.NortheastState.edu

outdoor life spring- summer 2013

YOUR GUIDE TO REGIONAL ADVENTURES Visit Biltmore Estate and Gardens

Build a Better Burger

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About OL

Welcome to the 2013 Spring/Summer Outdoor Life, your guide to regional adventures in Northeast Tennessee, Western North Carolina YOUR GUIDE TO REG and Southwest Virginia, as well as destinations IONAL Picnic ADVEN favori TURES tes throughout the southeast.

Bette r burg ers In this issue, we offer information on longOld B utler Days running festivals, including the Rhododendron D a y Festival on Roan Mountain, the Blue Plum trippi Regio nal d estin n’ ation Festival in Johnson City and the Covered s Cove red B Bridge Celebration in Elizabethton. Look for ridge Celeb ration Kaya king articles on fishing, traveling with pets, kayak• Fish ing • Bikin g • Gri ing, golfing, biking and much more. Full-color lling • Golf ing photographs accompany the articles. Other articles include tips for grilling better burgers and favorite summer picnic recipes from OL readers.

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The front cover photo by Brandon Hicks depicts 3-year-old Josie Johnson enjoying fresh watermelon and strawberries during a picnic on the banks of the Watauga River in Elizabethton.

For more information on advertising in OL, call (423) 542-1539.

For more information on editorial content, call (423) 297-9077.

Visit our website at www.outdoor-life.net for more details.

Day Trippin’ at Grandfather Mountain

14

Publisher: Mark A. Stevens Editor-in-chief: Brian Reese Managing Editor: Bryan Stevens Writers: Rozella Hardin, Ashley Rader, Nathan Baker, Max Hrenda, Curtis Carden and Rick Sheek.

Front cover design: Alaina Akens.

Inside design: Melissa Hale.

Advertising design: Phyllis Davis, Melissa Hale and Alaina Akens.

Advertising: Bill Parsons, Shirley Nave, Brandy Trivett and Marcella Peek.

Chattanooga’s Top 5 Attractions - 6 Legendary Volunteer Speedway - 30

Outdoor Life | Page 3

FRIENDS FRIENDS OF OF ROAN ROAN MOUNTAIN MOUNTAIN

Group’s members work to celebrate nature, history of area’s highest peak

BY MAX HRENDA OL STAFF mhrenda@outdoor-life.net

life forms in the area.

“When you take a trip up to the top of Roan Mountain, it’s like driving to Canada, as far as the climate and vegetation and animal life,” BarThough people in Carter County may be rigar said. “So you have species up there that is aware of the natural splendor and beauty ofvery similar to those in Canada, except, because fered by Roan Mountain, some may not be they’ve been isolated for so long, many of them aware of just how much the area can offer in have evolved to where they’re a bit different. the way of recreation.

“They’re unique species; in the entire world, For instance, Roan Mountain is home to one some are only found on Roan Mountain.” of two of Carter County’s two state parks. In adAccording to an article written by FORM dition to Roan Mountain State Park, the county member Jennifer Bauer and published in The is home to Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Tennessee Conservationist, one of these unique Elizabethton. species is the northern saw-whet owl, which Roan Mountain State Park, like most state is generally found in the northern United parks, has its usual perks, such as hiking, camping, s n States and Canada. After several studies were fishing, cabin rentals, tennis and basketball courts, ve ryan Ste hoto by B P y n a conducted, experts determined in 1996 that and other such activities. ith m ountain. W M n a a o iz R n f a there were several genetic differences beBut, as the weather gets warmer and the sun stays levations o re. An org e higher e tural treasu d to protect th a n t a a tween these saw-whet owls and their counly out longer, the park will begin to host a few special is w o in e es sl unta n been form areness and e Spring arriv nd animals, Roan Mo v e s a h terparts in the north. events. a in — r aw an Mounta ique plants ster greate n o fo u R f to o s g d in The notion of new life forms on Roan n The Rhododendron Festival, sponsored by the nce. work e Frie nd significa while also a tion — th n y a r o to R is h e l Mountain, however, is not new. Nor is the Roan Mountain Citizens Club every June, may be the ve th in’s natura and preser the mounta f o g appreciation from the environmental best known of these events. This long-running festival in d n understa community. celebrates the mid-June blooming of the Catawba rho“Even in the late 1700s, as they traveled around and identified things in the colonies, dodendron found on the higher slopes of Roan. (naturalists) went to Roan Mountain and found species there they never had seen before,” BarriOther events are organized each year by the Friends of Roan Mountain organization. FORM offers year-round events — including a naturalists gar said. “John Muir, who founded the Sierra Club, actually traveled to Roan Mountain in 1898. rally in spring, summer, winter and fall — in the hopes of drawing attention to one of Appala- They found a letter he had written to his wife, and he remarked on what a beautiful place it was.”

With that in mind, the rallies, trips and hikes sponsored by FORM are designed to leave that chia’s most unique landmarks.

“The purpose of the Friends of Roan Mountain is to foster greater awareness and understand- same impression on their participants.

The next event is the fourth-annual Xtreme Roan Moutnain Roan Adventures Youth Natuing of the natural history and significance of Roan Mountain,” said FORM President Gary Barralists’ Rally, which is scheduled for the evening of Friday, July 26, at “just about sundown,” and rigar, “and to support programs and activities that further that understanding.”

This credo inspired the foundation of the FORM in March of 2000, before a springtime natu- then on Saturday, July 27, from 9 a.m. to the mid-afternoon.

“The (rally) in the summer is dedicated to the youth,” Barrigar said. ralists’ rally.

Children will have the choice of several different hikes or activities throughout the course “I guess probably a year or two before that, we experienced a fall rally where the remnants of a hurricane came through and really threatened to rain out the entire event,” Barrigar said. of the day. Activities include animal tracking, stream ecology, insects, and owl pellet dissection.

“That’s when we realized that we need an organization to support these events, give them finan- Hikes are similarly themed, such as a geology hike, junior scavenger hunt, and bird banding.

Adults and children are welcome to participate in the event, with each costing $4. If registracial stability, and provide the support that they really need to prosper.”

Thirteen years — and about 300 members — later, the FORM is still going strong, and the tion is received before July 22, lunch will be provided at no cost by Earth Fare.

Families who wish to enroll online can do so by visiting xtremeroanadventures.org. continued success of the group has translated to new successes for the Roan.

In addition, the annual Roan Mountain Fall Naturalists Rally will celebrate a special mile“The rallies increased; now we have four a year,” Barrigar said. “We have people that come from all over the world to attend them, and we have speakers — some that come from far away stone this year when the event celebrates its golden anniversary.

The 50th annual Roan Mountain Fall Naturalists Rally will be held Friday-Sunday, Sept. 7-9, — that are well-known in their fields to come and do presentations.”

The presentations primarily deal with one of Roan Mountain’s many unique features. with program and hikes for people of all ages.

For more information on FORM and any of its events and activities, visit www.friendsofroanBecause the mountain sits at an unusually high elevation (6,286 feet above sea level), plants and animals that dwell near the top of the Roan have evolved to be unlike any other mtn.org.

Outdoor Life | Page 4

BETTER BURGERS BURGERS

Secret to a great burger?

Know that less is more!

(AP) — When the weather turns warm, I is because as the meat cooks, the fibers exfind myself craving the smell and taste of a pand and they inflate the burger, turning it into a ball. If you make the depression with great homemade burger off the grill.

So what makes a great burger? There are your thumb, the meat expands to fill the a few simple rules. But if you remember just hole, leaving the burger flat.

A hot grill also is important to getting one of them, it should be that less really is more. Which is to say, the less you add to a great burger. Be sure to heat it with all your ground beef, the less you handle the burners on high (or wait until the charcoal is covered with a gray meat when mixing it, and ash), then clean the heated the less you flip it while cooking grates with a brassgrilling, the better burger bristle brush. Reduce the you get in the end. heat to a medium just beThe foundation of my fore placing the burgers on backyard burger is a 50-50 the grill. You should hear combination of sirloin and chuck. I love mixing the

by Elizabeth Karmel a satisfying sizzle when the meat hits the grates! Cover leaner and cleaner ground the grill and flip the burgers sirloin with the rich beefiness of ground chuck. A patty that is 100 just once halfway through the cooking time.

The meat will initially stick to the grill percent sirloin is too lean, and 100 percent grates. But as it cooks, it will naturally rechuck is too fatty.

If I am close to a good butcher, I also love lease itself. This is true of many foods and all to make a custom grind. You can ask the protein, whether you are grilling or sauteing butcher to grind the odd pieces of brisket, it. This is why it is so important not to flip short rib, skirt and hanger steak, and add it the burgers more than once, as well as why to a lean and clean base of sirloin for a top so many burgers end up falling apart when notch burger. The key is a mix of lean and they are flipped too early. And it should also go without saying that pressing down on the fatty meat, freshly ground.

Beyond the meat itself, you don’t want burgers with a spatula is a no-no, too! to add too many other ingredients, particuClub House Burger larly wet ones. You don’t want to compete With Buttered Bun with the flavor of the beef, or leave it too waStart to finish: 30 minutes tery. I limit myself to a sprinkle of salt and Servings: 6 pepper, plus just a bit of dry mustard and 1 pound ground sirloin Worcestershire sauce. The last two amp the 1 pound ground chuck savory flavors of the burger without compet1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ing with it.

1 teaspoon Coleman’s dry mustard Once the meat is seasoned, I lightly mix 1 teaspoon kosher salt everything together and divide it into equal 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper portions. I generally use 2 pounds of meat to 2 tablespoons extra-virgin Olive oil make six burgers. This step can be done up 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) melted butter to a day in advance. If prepping in ahead, 6 kaiser rolls, sliced refrigerate the patties and make sure they 6 crisp butter or Boston lettuce leaves are well covered to minimize the oxidation 6 slices purple or sweet onion, such as (discoloration) of the meat.

Before the burgers go on the grill, be sure Vidalia 2 large tomatoes, cut into 6 slices to press your thumb into the center of each patty, pushing it halfway down. This is the real secret to a perfect backyard burger. This n See BURGERS, 6

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The American Table

This club h ouse burge r with a b for an outi Photo Co uttered bu ng with th ntributed n is the pe e family. rfect comb ination

Outdoor Life | Page 5

Persimmon Ridge Park Jonesborough, TN 423-753-1553 wetlandsjonesborough.com

Burgers

ALL ALL ABOARD ABOARD

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6 slices cooked bacon (optional) Ketchup (optional) Mustard (optional) Mayonnaise (optional) Heat a grill to high.

In a large bowl, combine the ground sirloin and ground chuck. Mix it together, being careful not to overwork the meat. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, salt and pepper.

Mix until just combined, then divide the mixture into 6 pieces. Gently shape each piece into a burger about 3/4 inch thick. Press your thumb gently into the center of each to form a depression.

Brush the patties lightly on both sides with the olive oil. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the burgers and grill until the meat no longer is pink, 8 to 10 minutes, turning once halfway through grilling time.

Meanwhile, brush butter over both sides of the rolls and grill until lightly toasted, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Serve the burgers immediately on the buttered rolls with a lettuce leaf, a slice of raw onion, tomato and a slice of bacon, if desired.

Serve with traditional condiments on the side.

— EDITOR’S NOTE: Elizabeth Karmel is a grilling and Southern foods expert and executive chef at Hill Country Barbecue Market restaurants in New York and Washington, as well as Hill Country Chicken in New York. She is the author of three cookbooks, including “Soaked, Slathered and Seasoned.”

The famous Chattanooga Choo Choo

Experience Chattanooga’s Top 5 Summer adventures CHATTANOOGA — Summer in Chattanooga means festivals, music, arts, outdoor adventures, minorleague baseball, superb dining, river cruises, shopping, enjoying the riverfront scattered with attractions, parks, green spaces — and that’s just to name a few things.

Once you get here, you can park your car and explore the laid-back city aboard the free electric shuttle that connects you to all the hotels, attractions, restaurants and activities throughout the Downtown, Riverfront, NorthShore and Southside Districts.

Chattanooga was named “Best Town Ever” by Outside magazine, and one of “The 45 Places to Go” in nooga Zoo a tt a h C e th t the world by the New York rd a Snow Leopa Times — and it’s easy to see why. Chattanooga is less Outdoor Life | Page 6

than a two-hour drive from Atlanta, Nashville, Knoxville, Huntsville and Birmingham and is located in the valley along the Tennessee River and surrounded by picturesque mountains.

CHATTANOOGA’S TOP 5 SUMMER ADVENTURES There’s so much to do in Chattanooga, you’ll need to plan several days to experience the top Summer adventures.

1. FESTIVALS & LIVE MUSIC: Be entertained at numerous music festivals throughout the summer including the 9-day Riverbend Festival featuring Cee Lo, Brandy, Dierks Bentley, Jake Owen, Lynyrd Skynyrd, O.A.R., Newsboys and 100 more artists; 5-month Nightfall Music Series; Riverfront Nights music series; Southern Brewer’s Festival or year-round concerts at Rhythm & Brews and Track 29.

2. DOWNTOWN: Come face-to-face with sharks, penguins and thousands of other creatrues at the downtown Tennessee Aquarium; take an eco-cruise aboard the River Gorge Explorer or the Blue Moon; enjoy a relaxing lunch/dinner cruise aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat; browse locally made items at the Chattanooga

n See CHATTANOOGA, 10

PETS PETS INCLUDED

Pack up the whole family when hitting the road this summer

The American Pet Products Association offers helpful products to make traveling with four-legged friends a breeze this season.

With 32 percent of dog owners taking pets with them in the car when traveling for at least two nights, according to APPA’s 2013/2014 National Pet Owners Survey, ensure Fido is set with all the necessities before hitting the road. Here are some great products manufactured by APPA members to make traveling with pets safe and easy this season.

Keep dogs safe and secure with the crashtested Enhanced Tru-Fit Smart Harness with Steel Nesting Buckles by Kurgo. Simply slip over the dog’s head and clip around the midsection. Five adjustments and a chest pad provide a near custom fit and the harness can safely be used with any vehicle seat belt or Kurgo Auto Zip Line.

For more information, visit www.kurgostore.com.

The lightweight and packable Ruffwear

Highlands Bed is ideal for backpacking or camping and rolls up for easy traveling. Reclaim your sleeping bag while still providing a comfortable place to let your dog rest comfortably. For details, visit www.ruffwear.com.

Keeping Fido safe and identifiable during summer travels, the Tagg Tracker is a pet tracking device that uses advanced GPS and wireless technology to track your pet’s location and activity from your computer or mobile device, 24 hours a day. Visit www. pettracker.com to learn more.

Sleepypod’s three-in-one Yummy Travel Bowls allow pet owners to conveniently store, transport and serve food and water while on the road. Each set features a spill-resistant water bowl that serves as a base, a food bowl that slips into the water bowl, and a sealable lid to avoid leaking. Visit sleepypod.com/ yummy for more information.

The American Pet Products Association is the leading not-for-profit trade association serving the interests of the pet products in-

dustry since 1958. APPA membership includes more than 1,000 pet product manufacturers, their representatives, importers and livestock sa Keep dogs fe and secu re suppliers representing when trave ling both large corporafor summe r tions and growing trips with the business enterprises. crash-teste d APPA’s mission is to Enhanced Tru-Fit Sm promote, develop art Harness w and advance pet ith Steel Nest ownership and the ing Buckles by pet product indusKurgo. try and to provide the services necessary to help its members prosper.

Photo Contribu Visit www.amerited canpetproducts. org for more information.

GRAND OPENING

Sales, Rentals, Lessons Outdoor Life | Page 7

514 State St., Bristol, TN www.TriSUP.net

(423) 652-0220

d l i W r u o Y Meet s r o b h g i e N NS N STEVE

BY BRYA

Tiger Salamander

white to dark brown with spots. A fairly large salamander, it can reach a length of about nine inches. It’s usually found in limestone caves containing streams in central and southeastern Tennessee.

• Salamanders breathe through their skin.

• Salamanders are very sensitive to their environment and have little tolerance for environmental pollution. Some recent studies have indicated that salamander populations around the world have decreased 60 to 70 percent in the past few decades.

• Worldwide, there are 511 species of salamander in 10 families.

• Some of the species that reside in Tennessee include Hellbender, Mudpuppy, Mud Salamander, Two-lined Salamander, Eastern Tiger Salamander, Green Salamander, Northern Red Salamander, Lesser Siren, Marbled Salamander, Spotted Salamander and Three-toed Amphiuma.

• Roan Mountain in Carter County boasts a diverse population of salamanders. Some of them reside at the highest elevations of the mountain, including Weller’s Salamander, Jordan’s Salamander and Yonahlossee. Other species found on Roan Mountain include Appalachian Woodland, Marbled and Northern Red. • The largest livr e d n a ing amphibian is the lam Longtail Sa Chinese Giant Salamander. Some of the biggest of these salamanders have reached a length of nearly six feet and a weight of about

They’re easily overlooked, but salamanders are fairly common wild neighbors for many people. They can make their home under a fallen log or along the mossy banks of a mountain stream.

Salamanders are amphibians, which means they are related to frogs and toads.

Here are some more interesting facts about salamanders: • The Volunteer State is home to 60 species of salamanders in seven different families. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known as the “Salamander Capital of the World.”

• Tennessee has its own official state amphibian. The Tennessee Cave Salamander was adopted as the official state amphibian of Tennessee in 1995. This salamander has three red external gills, a broad, flat head with small lidless eyes and a tail fin. Coloring ranges from nearly

Outdoor Life | Page 8

80 pounds.

• The largest-ever amphibian known to science was Prionosuchus, which looked like a crocodile and reached a length of 30 feet. This amphibian lived about 270 million years ago in what is now Brazil.

• A persistent human myth about salamanders concerns their supposed resistance to fire. Their association with fire most likely comes from the habit of many salamanders to dwell under or inside rotting logs. When their homes were occasionally tossed into a fireplace, the salamanders emerged.

They are not fire-resistant, and many a salamander has probably perished in flames after their log was tossed onto a fire.

• The study of amphibians and reptiles is Cave Salamander known as herpetology. The scientific study of amphibians only is called batrachology.

Other species of amphibians besides salamanders include frogs, toads and caecilians.

• Unlike other vertebrates, salamanders can regenerate lost limbs and other body parts, including their tails.

• Salamanders belong to the scientific order of Caudata, which is derived from the Latin word, Cauda, which means “tail.” Salamanders differ from frogs and toads in having a tail that also gives them a superficial resemblance to lizards.

— Some information compiled from the websites of Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and the Tennessee Herpetology Society.

EIGHTH EIGHTH WONDER WONDER OF OF THE THE WORLD WORLD

Natural Tunnel State Park offers a day of summer fun, adventure

BY ROZELLA HARDIN OL STAFF rhardin@outdoor-life.net

Looking for a day outing close to home, which offers not only spectacular sights, but swimming, camping, picnicking and hiking, as well, then check out Natural Tunnel State Park, located in Duffield, Va. Megan France, an education specialist with Natural Tunnel State Park, said the park is named for the famous “Tunnel,” a geological feature that formed naturally, shaped by the forces of plate tectonics, water and carbonic acid slowly dissolving away limestone.

Natural Tunnel, called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” by William Jennings Bryan, has been attracting sightseers to the mountains of southwestern Virginia for more than 100 years. Today it is the focal point of Natural Tunnel State Park.

The creation of Natural Tunnel began more than a million years ago in the early glacial period. The walls of the tunnel show evidence of prehistoric life, and many fossils can be found in the creek bed and on tunnel walls. Natural Tunnel is more than 850 feet long and as tall as a 10-story building.

Other scenic features include a wide chasm between steep walls surrounded by several pinnacles, or “chimneys.”

“There are several cave systems in and around the park,” France added. “The park provides two wild caving adventures for the public.”

Call the park at (276) 940-1643 or (276) 940-2674 to make reservations for

the cave trips.

France said Daniel Boone was the first European settler to see Tunnel.

“There is so much to do here that you can spend all day at the park and not have to get into your car until you want to leave,” France said.

Spring through fall is the prime season for visiting the park.

“Winter gets a little scary if you are not use to driving in the snow,” France said.

“Most of the park is closed during that time, but hiking trails are open.”

Park facilities include two campgrounds, cabins, picnic areas, an amphitheater, a visitor center, a camp store and gift shop.

The park also features a Wilderness Road historic area, a swimming pool with a 100foot slide and a chairlift to the tunnel floor.

Guests can enjoy cave tours and canoe trips on the Clinch River, as well as the Cove Ridge Center, which offers environmental education, conference facilities and overnight dorm accommodations.

Once arriving at the parking lot for the Natural Tunnel, visitors board a chair lift running down the mountain for approximately three-fourths of a mile. On exiting the chair lift, it’s a short stroll to the Natural Tunnel carved in the mountainside. There is still a working train line that runs through the tunnel on a daily basis.

In addition to canoeing, hiking and caving, which are available throughout the week at the park, several special events are planned for the summer months, including Pickin’ In the Park on June 30 from 2

to 4 p.m. This event will feature local country, bluegrass and gospel bands playing. Scheduled performers play 30 minutes. Admission is free, but parking is $1.

Other summer events of note include: • June 8 — National Get Outdoors Day. Spend the day exploring the park from hiking to swimming.

Step back in time to the year 1775 in the Wilderness Road Blockhouse and meet period-dressed re-enactors. Canoeing and caving will also be a part of the day’s activities.

• June 22-23 — National Great American Backyard Campout. Camp out with some of the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Association Re-enactors at the Blockhouse. Featured will be stories and music.

• June 29 — Lighting of the Tunnel from 7 to 10 p.m.

The Commonwealth of Virginia acquired the tunnel and 100 surrounding acres in 1967 from the Natural Tunnel Chasm and Caverns Corp. to establish Natural Tunnel State Park. About 750 additional acres were later acquired and the park opened in 1971.

Natural Tunnel St Natural Tunnel State ate Park Park is located about 20 miles from Kingsport.

UNAKA ROD AND GUN CLUB

BEE CLIFF CABINS

Nestled in the mountain valley of Siam on the Watauga River, the cabins are a great place for fishing, hunting, or just peaceful family get-a-way. All the cabins are fully furnished with all the luxuries of home. All you need is food! Plus each cabin has its own private porch.

Trap & Skeet Shooting • Archery • Rifle & Pistol Shooting • Blackpowder Shooting Military Matches • Hunter Safety Classes TENNESSEE HANDGUN CARRY PERMIT CLASSES EVERY 2ND SAT. OF THE MONTH

Owned by John and Norine Allen

•Cable TV • Heating & Air • Propane Grill • Gas Fireplaces •Linens and Towels • Cookware, Coffee Maker and Microwave • Wi-Fi

Tennessee Scholastic Clay Shooter Team Youth Rifle Teams 423-926-0221 www.unakarodandgun.com

Outdoor Life | Page 9

Chattanooga n Continued from 6

ay Incline Railw

Market; dig for dinosaurs at the Creative Discovery Museum; check out snow leopards, red pandas and more at the Chattanooga Zoo; catch a Chattanooga Lookouts baseball game or cool off in the interactive water fountain in Coolidge Park or visit the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo.

3. LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN and TENNESSEE VALLEY FUN: Venture high atop Lookout Mountain, just six miles from downtown.

Meander through the trails at Rock City Gardens; delve 260 feet below the ground at Ruby Falls; wind your way through the trees at the Zipstream Aerial Adventure course; head straight up (and down!) Lookout Mountain on the world’s steepest passenger railway, the Incline Railway; visit the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park at Point Park or in Chickamauga; enjoy thrilling rides at Lake Winnepesaukah or take a ride aboard a train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad.

4. OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Land, air and water — Chattanooga has got it all. Try rock climbing downtown at Coolidge Park or numerous other places on the mountainous terrain; biking along the Tennessee River on the 13-mile Tennessee Riverwalk; kayaking or canoeing downtown; hiking, fishing, golf-

ing, mountain biking and more. If you’re up for a thrill, try hang gliding 2,000 feet in the air along Lookout Mountain or go whitewater rafting on the wild Ocoee River, only 45 minutes from downtown.

5. ARTS & CULTURAL ACTIVITIES: Take in one of the nation’s largest collections of American art at the Hunter Museum of American Art; stroll through museums, galleries & outdoor sculpture gardens in the Bluff View Arts, North Shore, & Southside Districts; create your own masterpiece at Ignis Glass Studio or enjoy more than 100 pieces of public art integrated throughout the downtown area.

And when you’re on vacation, you need to make your taste buds happy, right? Whether you’re looking for upscale restaurants or trendy dives, you’ll find an array of establishments downtown that have attracted food reviewers and celebs including Rachael Ray’s $40 a Day show. For fine-dining, you can’t miss Hennen’s, Back Inn Café and 212 Market or the James-Beard-nominated St. John’s.

If you’re looking for to-see-and-be-seen in places, check out one of the local favorites like Public House, Easy Bistro, Big River Grille, Taco Mamacitas, Blue Plate, Hair of the Dog Pub, Sugar’s Ribs or The Terminal.

WHAT’S NEW Chattanooga is dedicated to continually enhancing the city, always making it a better destination. So whether you’ve been here before or it’s your first time, you’ll find some great new ways to have fun, topping off an already impressive array of things to do.

• Lake Winnepesaukah’s 5-Acre Water Park Called “Soakya” will feature a lazy river, wave lagoon, flume body slides, enclosed tube slides, side-by-side racer slides, splash park for toddlers, shaded lounge seating, retail shops, concessions and a changing facility with lockers. Opens May 2013.

• Chattanooga launched a bicycle transit system with 300 bikes at 30 stations throughout the city.

Riverbend Music Festival on the Tennessee River • Scenic City Roots is a monthly concert series that’s recorded live from Track 29 and then broadcast in hi-def on PBS stations state-wide. Each show is two hours and features regional and local talent.

• The Main Terrain Park, located in the Southside District, is a 1.72 acre urban fitness park complete with interactive public art, green space, walking and running track (inlaid with haiku poems), bike storage and fitness stations.

• Chattanooga’s public art program introduces a wide range of high quality public art into the community, enriching the lives of residents and visitors. Downtown is scattered with more than 100 pieces of public art and thanks to a new Public Art Plan, people can now learn more about many of these pieces with a new map that provides information on the artist, title of the piece, medium and its location.

• Flying Squirrel Neighborhood Bar, adjacent to the Crash Pad, features a modern design and handcrafted interior. It’s intended as a local gathering spot for dinner and a latenight crowd and plans to open this

Outdoor Life | Page 10

summer.

• Chattanooga has opened several great new restaurants over the past few months throughout the downtown area: Community Pie serves Neapolitan pizza; Elemental offers Southern fare with a modern twist; terraMae’s food celebrates the Appalachian mountains from Maine to Tennessee; Café 7 at Rock City Gardens offers a gorgeous, world-famous “See 7 States” view along with delicious southern cuisine from the seven states; and Milk & Honey is filled with freshly made gelatos and sorbets.

For more information on everything to do in Chattanooga, visit www.chattanoogafun.com.

Riverboat Cru

ise

Saturday, June 8th from 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. • Registration begins at 8 a.m.

Grab your poles and head for the pond to participate in a catfish tournament

• Competition will be held at 386 Highway 91 (Stoney Creek Hwy.) • For Children 12 and under.

• Participants must provide their own pole and catfish bait and chairs.

For more information call 423.542.3649 or e-mail at kimegges@cartercountytomorrow.com

• Prizes will be awarded in different age categories for the largest and most catfish caught at the end of the tournament.

• FREE Hotdogs and drinks will be provided by the Workforce Development Complex • FREE FISHING!

Outdoor Life | Page 11

PICNIC PICNIC FAVORITES FAVORITES

Local cooks share popular family recipes

BY BRYAN STEVENS OL EDITOR bstevens@outdoor-life.net

Woods also shared a recipe for one of her favorite spring desserts, perfect for concluding a family picnic.

Daughter Melodie serves as the strawberry capper — and eater — during the preparation of this dessert.

“From the time she was old enough to carry a Scott’s strawberry bucket, we have looked forward to making this dessert together,” Woods said.

Woods keeps a picture in her mind of a 6-year-old Melodie whose face is covered with strawberry juice.

“She has a laugh that would brighten the darkest room,” Woods said.

Young Melodie would always gleefully start capping the berries, wondering if they would have enough to make the pie.

“The fear of not having enough berries was not a big enough deterrent to stop her from eating as she capped,” Woods said. “Sometimes I think she ate more than she capped.”

Woods always let Melodie drizzle the chocolate.

“It made no difference to me if there was a lot here, not much there,” she said. “What did make a difference to me is that we did it together.”

On a recent weekend, Woods brought home a bucket of strawberries.

“Even though Melodie is a young lady, recently graduated from high school, at the sight of those berries I once again saw my 6-year-old girl.”

Melodie saw the berries and immediately wanted to make the pie.

“So, once again, we started the ritual, the laughn Hicks o d n ra B ing, the strawberry sneaking,” Woods said. “I look at Photo by her and think life is good.”

Summer’s the season for picnic and outdoor cookouts. It’s also a time to keep alive traditions as families gather for meals outdoors at their favorite picnic locations.

Several local cooks agreed to share some of their favorite recipes with OL readers.

Hampton resident Jackie Woods loveS to cook, and she especially enjoys preparing family favorites for summer picnics.

She shared a recipe for a picnic staple — potato salad — and a dessert featuring lush, seasonal strawberries.

“This recipe for potato salad was a staple at our home,” Woods said. “The original recipe came from my Grandma Bare, and I must admit I have tweaked it a bit over the years. Grandma Bare never heard of smoked paprika or celery seed, and she sure did not have Yukon Gold potatoes.”

Woods said her son, David, loved this potato salad.

“When he was around 5 years old, it was his greatest joy to help me with the preparation,” Woods said. “It was his job to ‘skin’ the eggs, and he did this with great concentration. When he was finished he would give me his sun grin and say, ‘All done Mama.’”

Woods always let him know how much she appreciated his help.

“He was quite sure that without this help, I would not have been able to make our potato salad,” she said Woods said as her son grew older, he did not help her as often with the preparation of the potato salad.

“I grew to miss the times he did, and the time we spent together talking and laughing,” she said. eta Pie ple evidence to why hicken Fro C t First vides am Most of all, she missed his “sun grin.” rdinaire” a o eta Pie p a F tr n x e e k r ic e h is is a bak of C “I think it is the normal everyday things that mean Garrett, th as the “pie This slice to n g w o in n rd k o ’t need Acc rrett is the most,” Woods said. and doesn zabethton. li ll E e Sandra Ga w in ls h e rc av tr an Chu luck, as it “Enjoy my version of the ever-popular potato salad,” Presbyteri nic or pot ic p a s. r u fo io e delic she said. “My family sure does.” great pie arm to tast

No-Bake Strawberry Cake 3 pounds fresh strawberries, sliced 2 (8-ounce) tubs fat-free whipped topping (or use regular or light) 1 (14.4 ounce) box graham crackers ed w 1/4 cup milk chocolate chip morsels to be serv 1. Spread a small amount of whipped topping on the bottom of a 9x13-inch bakSouthern Style Potato Salad ing pan. Place 5 graham cracker sheets down the middle and break 2 more sheets into crackers 2-3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes to fit down the sides. Lightly cover the top of the graham crackers with more whipped topping and 5 hard boiled eggs then a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat three times, until you have four layers of graham crack1/4 cup Duke’s mayonnaise (or more to taste) ers. If you’re a few crackers short on the top layer, that’s OK. You’ll end with a layer of strawberries 1/4 chopped bread and butter pickles (or more to taste) 1/4 cup sour cream on top.

Salt and pepper to taste 2. Place milk chocolate chip morsels in a plastic bag. Microwave in 10 second intervals until 2 tablespoons celery seed (optional) melted. Snip the end of the plastic bag and drizzle chocolate over top of cake.

1 tablespoon yellow mustard 3. Refrigerate covered for at least four hours, or until the crackers have softened completely.

Dice potatoes and cook until tender. Drain well and let cool slightly.

Cake will last well for two days.

Chop hard boiled eggs and add to potatoes.

••••• Add remaining ingredients, mixing well. Make sure all the potatoes are covered. Add salt and Later in the season, the harvest will shift from strawberries to blackberries. pepper to taste.

When it does, Carter County Extension Agent Beth Wolfe has the perfect dessert — Quick Adding a tablespoon to the water before the eggs boil ensures the shells can be removed easily. Blackberry Cobbler — for concluding a summer picnic.

Sprinkle smoked paprika on top to add a finishing look and taste. n See RECIPES, 13 ••••• Outdoor Life | Page 12

Recipes n Continued from 12

If you don’t have access to fresh blackberries, don’t fret. Wolfe said the dessert can also be made from frozen or canned berries.

“Best of all, this easy blackberry cobbler calls for just five ingredients,” Wolfe said. “It’s always been a favorite picnic or cookout dessert with my family.”

Quick Blackberry Cobbler 1/2 cup butter 1 cup self-rising flour 1 cup white sugar 1 cup milk 2 cups blackberries, fresh, frozen or canned Preparation “Butter is melted in an 8x8-inch glass baking dish, then a simple biscuit batter spooned in followed by blackberries arranged on top. The oven takes care of the rest. An hour later, this delicious cobbler emerges bubbly and golden.”

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Place butter or margarine in an 8X8 glass baking dish. Place dish in oven until butter is melted.

3. In a medium bowl, combine flour and sugar. Mix well, then stir in milk. Spoon mixture into baking dish, on top of melted butter or margarine. Pour blackberries over flour mixture.

4. Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, until fruit is bubbly and crust is lightly browned. If you desire, sprinkle an additional teaspoon of sugar over the cobbler 10 minutes before it’s done.

Note: Any fruit can be substituted for blackberries, if you desire.

••••• Wolfe also shared a recipe for a pasta salad, which is always a must-have dish for any sum-

She enjoys making both sweet and savory pies. Her Chicken and Feta Pie can be served cold or warm.

“This is a great pie for a picnic or pot luck, as it travels well and doesn’t need to be served warm,” Garrett explained. “The crust is flexible and can be used for vegetable tortas, pocket pies and much more,” she added.

She adapted her version of Chicken and Feta Pie from the cookbook “The Food and Wine of Greece” by Diane Kochilas.

“I enjoy cooking lots of Greek stuff, although I don’t have a drop of Greek blood,” she said.

mer meal.

“This is a quick, light and fresh pasta salad,” Wolfe said. “It’s a great side dish that goes great with grilled chicken.”

It’s also simple to prepare.

Wolfe noted that Use sea s it requires only a strawbe onal produce, r such as r ie s, to giv zesty dressing, pasthese mer rec e your ip favorite e s a fresh, de ta, feta cheese and s umlicious t aste. fresh vegetables.

Feta Pasta salad Ingredients: 3 cups tri-colored rotini pasta, cooked, cooled 1 cup crumbled Feta Cheese 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes 1 cup chopped cucumbers 1/2 cup sliced black olives 1/2 cup Zesty Italian Dressing or Greek Dressing 1/4 cup finely chopped red onions Combine ingredients and refrigerate at least 1 hour.

Note: Substitute other vegetables as desired. Or, substitute chopped red and/or green peppers for the cucumbers using unpeeled cucumbers. To make this pasta salad a hit with your kids, omit olives and onions.

Sprinkle top with parmesan cheese.

••••• Stoney Creek resident Sandra Garrett enjoys baking. Garrett, who works as secretary for First Presbyterian Church in Elizabethton, has acquired a reputation as a “pie baker extraordinaire.”

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Chicken and Feta Pie Dough: 2 to 2-1/2 cups bread flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 cup water 3 tablespoons olive oil Place ingredients in bread machine or mixing bowl. If using bread machine, use “Dough Only” cycle for first 10 minutes of cycle, then stop. If using a mixer, use the paddle until all ingredients are mixed, then switch to the dough hook and knead until a firm ball of dough forms. You can also mix by hand and knead on a lightly floured surface 5 to 7 min-

utes. Wrap and refrigerate dough for at least an hour (and up to 3 days).

Remove dough from refrigerator and let rest for 30 minutes before rolling For this recipe, cut dough into rough halves, one half slightly larger than the other. Use the larger half for the base. Roll out on a lightly floured surface. Place in pie pan and brush with olive oil.

Filling: 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 6 thighs, diced 1 cup chopped scallions 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill 1/2 cup celery freshly ground pepper, to taste 2 teaspoons dried thyme Pinch of sage Pinch of dried mint 1/2 teaspoon marjoram 1/2 teaspoon tarragon 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds 1/3 pound feta cheese, crumbled 2 tablespoons grated kefalotyri (available at Earth Fare) or Romano cheese 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1 egg yolk (optional), for brushing crust Combine all ingredients (except optional yolk) in a bowl. Toss well, then fill dough-lined pie pan. Roll out smaller piece of dough and place on top of filling. Roll the edges of the top and bottom doughs and punch slightly, to seal.

Make several small incisions in the top crust with a sharp knife. Brush crust with egg yolk for a golden, glossy crust.

Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until golden.

Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.

Serve warm or cold.

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Outdoor Life | Page 13

DAY DAY TRIP TRIP DESTINATIONS DESTINATIONS

Region offers plenty of opportunities for day-long excursions, adventures

BY ASHLEY RADER OL STAFF acarden@outdoor-life.net

Revolutionary War. The Visitors Center houses an interpretive facility, historic displays and a theater. A reconstruction of Residents and visitors alike will find a the 18th-century Fort Watauga is located multitude of options to fill their days this behind the Visitors Center. A 450-seat amsummer. For those looking for some afford- phitheater at Sycamore Shoals is located able day trips, Outdoor Life has compiled immediately adjacent to the reconstructed some suggestions for day trips that offer en- fort. The Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Tennessee, Liberty!, is held in the tertainment for the entire family. amphitheater every July. Events are held Area day trips include.: • Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park. most weekends at the park. The site also Located along the Watauga River in Eliza- has a 2-mile walking trail, picnic tables bethton, the park tells the story of settlers and grills. The visitors center is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to to the area around the time of the 4:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 543-5808.

• Wilbur Lake. Wilbur Lake is the smaller reservoir in the Wilbur Dam and Watauga Dam system. The dam was first built in 1912 and had many expansions up until the Tennessee Valley Authority took control of the dam in 1945. The lake is a prime spot for fishing, kayaking, nature watching and boating.

The Watauga River below Wilbur Dam is a starting off point for rafting groups. Wilbur ibuted tr n o Lake Campground is located C Photo r fo rn tu re nearby. The TVA-managed s will also rey” show ck City in o R campground offers primitive t a “Birds of P n so hursday mmer sea camping sites, picnic tables, another su ws are held every T . and sho 3 p.m ., .m p 1 ., grills and a bathhouse. For 2013. The a.m nday at 11 turdays, as a S n o s through Su w o more information visit, 4:30 p.m. sh ery day the week additional v e www.tva.gov/sites/wilbur. d n a le g s a liday ald E well as ho ictured, a B P . ly htm.

Ju f o rth of the Fou rs. o it is v y • Rocky Mount Livit kC greets Roc ing History Museum.

Located in Piney Flats,

Photo by Brandon Hicks

Rocky Mount Museum includes the Massengill Overmountain Museum, daily tours of the grounds led by costumed historic interpreters and other educational events. The Rocky Mount Museum is located at 200 Hyder Hill Road, Piney Flats.

The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last tour begins at 4 p.m. For more information, call 1-888-538-1791.

Rocky Mount offers visitors the Massengill Overmountain Museum, daily tours of the grounds led by costumed historic interpreters and other educational events. The museum features historic structures, a Revolutionary period garden, a weaving room and a flock of sheep. The museum will host a summer apprentice camp in July and August and The Rocky Mount Museum is located at 200 Hyder Hill Road, Piney Flats, Tenn., on Highway 11E. The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last tour begins at 4 p.m. For more information, call 1-888-538-1791.

• Rock City. Rock City is located six miles from downtown Chattanooga on Lookout Mountain in Georgia. Rock City host Summer Music Weekends featuring the Old Time Travelers from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through

Outdoor Life | Page 14

Labor Day. The “Birds of Prey” show will be held 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday with an additional 4:30 p.m. show on Saturday. “Birds of Prey” will also be shown on holidays and every day on the week of July 4. Rock City has massive rock formations, a 4,100-foot walking trail, caves and many other attractions. Rock City is a true marvel of nature featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species and breathtaking “See 7 States” panoramic views. For more information, call 1-800-854-0675.

• Grandfather Mountain in Linville, N.C. Grandfather Mountain features beautiful mountain scenery, a mile-high swinging bridge, environmental habitats for black bears, river otters, cougars, deer n See DAY TRIPS, 15

Day Trips n Continued from 14

and a golden eagle, a nature museum, a pupae room that allows visitors to natural history exhibits, a theater, res- watch as clumsy caterpillars metamorphose into beautaurant, gift show, fudge shop, hiking tiful butterflies, trails and picnic spots. and maybe even Call 1-828-733-4337 catch a glimpse for more information. of a brand-new Knoxville Zoo. The butterfly emergzoo’s popular Bloomin’ ing from their Butterfly Gardens, a chrysalis. New beautifully landscaped this year is a butterfly habitat sensory garden housing about that invites vis800 butterflies, itors to smell, including Malachite, touch and Monarch, Variegated Frit’ r e ‘Flying Flow see featured illaries, Gulf Fritillaries, Zoo plants. Blooa variety of Swallowtails, at Knoxville min’ ButterZebra Longwings, Julia fly Gardens is included with Longwings, Great Southern White, Cloudless Sulfers and Buckeyes, general zoo admission. Knoxville Zoo opened for the summer season May 18. is Knoxville’s largest year-round atWith so many “flying flowers,” Bloo- traction. Located off exit 392A from min’ Butterfly Gardens will be awash Interstate 40, the zoo is open every day with color. The garden also features except Christmas Day. Knoxville Zoo is

Northeast

nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation and education.

The zoo is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Admission and ticket sales stop Fog rolls in one hour before at Wilb Photo the zoo closes. located on Wilbur Dur Lake during the evening. by Ashley Rader W am Next-day admis- prime spot for fishing, Road in Carter County. ilbur Lake is The lake is k ay ak b in elow Wilbu g and boatin a sion is free after r Dam is a g. The Watau starting off ga Wilbur Lake R iv e r point for ra 3 p.m. For more Campground fting gr off ta i n f o r m a t i o n , tv bles, grills and a bathhouse. ers primitive camping sites, oups. a.gov/sites/w For more in picnic ilbur.htm. formation, vi call (865) 637sit www.

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Charlie Long

MUSIC MUSIC BENEATH BENEATH THE THE STARS STARS

Biltmore announces 17th annual concert series line-up

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Fresh after their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, Heart will kick off Biltmore’s 17th annual outdoor concert series on Thursday, July 25.

In addition to Heart, a mix of Grammy Award-winning acts, as well as a contemporary Christian group, will highlight the series. Staged on the South Terrace of Biltmore House, the concert series will feature its own award-worthy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All shows will start at 8 p.m.

Sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson first showed the world that women can rock when their band, Heart, stormed the charts in the ’70s with hits like “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man,” “Barracuda” and many more. They wrote the songs and played the instruments too, making them the first women in rock to do so. The band has continued making hits for more than three decades, selling 35 million albums along the way. They’ve won numerous awards and Lifetime Achievements. In April, Heart was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The full Biltmore Concert Series lineup is, with ticket prices: Thursday, July 25: Heart — Adult Premium, $87; Adult Reserved, $72; and Adult General, $62.

Sunday, Aug. 4: Sheryl Crow —Adult Premium, $85; Adult Reserved, $70; and

Heart

Photos Contributed

Biltmore’s annual outdoor concert series returns for a 17th season in July. Tickets for some shows go on sale as early as June 5.

Adult General; $60.

Friday, Aug. 16: Casting Crowns — Adult Premium, $70; Adult Reserved, $55; and Adult General, $45.

Friday, Aug. 23: The Four Tops and Temptations — Adult Premium, $75; Adult Reserved, $60; and Adult General, $50.

Friday, Aug. 30: The Beach Boys —

Adult Premium, $78; Adult Reserved, $63; and Adult General, $53.

Saturday, Aug. 31: Comedian Bill Engvall — Adult Premium, $70; Adult Reserved, $60; and Adult General, $50.

Tickets will go on sale for Heart and Sheryl Crow on June 5. Tickets for the rest of the line-up will go on sale on June

Bill Engvall

s The Four Top

Outdoor Life | Page 16

12. Ticket purchases will be available at www.biltmore.com/concerts or by calling 1-866-336-1255 on the appointed dates.

A variety of ticket, dining and accommodations packages will be available for all of the concerts. Tickets do not include or require estate admission. Performers and dates are subject to change.

Temptations

SUMMER SUMMER UNCORKED UNCORKED

Need easy wine tips for picnics? Experts chime in

BY MICHELLE LOCKE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Picking up some fresh wines for summer is in the bag — or shopping cart, actually — as supermarkets get in touch with their inner sommeliers.

Grocery store wine aisles that once yielded row after row of generic bottles now boast a wide selection of domestic and imported wines, and some high-end chains even sport a few out-of-the-way “finds.”

Picking up a rose for an afternoon soiree — or a crisp white for a warm summer night — has never been easier.

“We’ve gone from a reality where only hugely distributed wines would ever show up in the big chain supermarkets because they were, frankly, too lazy and they didn’t think there was enough demand to do otherwise,” says Alder Yarrow, founder and editor of the widely read wine blog vinography. com.

But with consumers getting more sophisticated, “You’re starting to see even the bigger chains in states where they’re able to sell wine beginning to stock more than just what the massive distributors will send them.”

When choosing your summer sip, think whites and roses with good acidity. “My supermarket wines consist of mouthwatering, zippy wines,” says Joel Kampfe, wine director at ENO Wine Bar in San Francisco.

A good general choice is a New Zealand sauvignon blanc. They are competitively priced and just right for warmer days.

Kampfe also likes Edna Valley Chardonnay, about $11. “Always consistent. Always delicious.”

For Michael Taylor, wine director for Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House in Chicago, summer wines are “really all about refreshment. You want something crisp and light.” It’s also a good time to think pink;

BARNETT’S

he’ll be serving a Bodegas Muga Rosado, a rose from Spain’s Rioja region, by the glass at the restaurant this summer. The wine is made with the red grape tempranillo and retails for around $11. “It’s not your mom’s white zin,” says Taylor. “It’s got a little bit of depth, a little bit of richness to it.”

Not everyone gets to pick up some merlot along with the milk and eggs. There still are a dozen or so states, including New York, where the wine selection at supermarkets is exactly zero thanks to bans left over from Prohibition. Other states have restrictions on when wine can be sold, how much alcohol it can contain and whether beer, wine and spirits can all be sold along with groceries.

Still, many states do allow grocery store sales of wine and what they have on offer has improved as stores hire wine buyers n See WINES, 21

A Sip of Summer

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Outdoor Life | Page 17

THE THE SAGA SAGA OF OF SYCAMORE SYCAMORE SHOALS SHOALS

Pilk and rest of ‘Liberty’ cast preparing for 35th season

BY ROZELLA HARDIN OL STAFF rhardin@outdoor-life.net

in the early 1990s, Pilk said he has played different roles. “The first year I didn’t have a speaking part. I played White Eagle. I sort of Robert Pilk is eagerly anticipating this stepped up each year,” he said.

For the past 15 years, Pilk has performed year’s season of “Liberty! The Saga of Sycathe role of Attacullaculla, who he refers as the more Shoals.” The drama is back for its 35th season in July. Pilk has been a part of the out- “good Indian.” From the Cherokee language, the name loosely translates into English as door event for 22 years.

He said he became involved after his “Little Carpenter.” Historians believe the granddaughter encouraged him to take park name was given to him due to his physical in the annual performance. Since he first stature.

In explaining his role, Pilk said that joined the cast Attacullaculla played a significant role in the early relationship between the Cherokee and the English settlers. He said Attacullaculla was responsible for most of the trading of food and other goods with the early colonists. “Attacullaculla was supposed to be an expert in trading and was very good at negotiating,” Pilk said.

As part of his preparations to play the character, Pilk has done several hours of research into the historical records concerning Attacullaculla.

“There’s not a lot in the books about him, but, there’s a lot of history surrounding Fort Watauga and our first settlers into the area. A great deal of American and Tennessee history took place right here on the banks of the Watauga River,” Pilk shared.

He noted that one of the reasons for Attacullaculla’s ability to strike deals with the white settlers to the region was based on his knowledge of the English language. Pilk said Attacullaculla had traveled to England where he learned the language. The young Cherokee warrior gained ks ic a reputation for his negotiatH ndon Photo by Bra r te ac ar ing skills when he was part of a ho plays the ch en Robert Pilk, w be s ha Cherokee delegation that trav!” ty er in “Lib He of Atacullaculla s. ar ye 22 eled to Britain for discussions r ama fo the r part of the dr fo lla cu la ul with the English government. as Attac the has been cast as n ow kn is “He was very much in“He past 15 years. . id sa volved in the negotiations that lk Pi ,” an good Indi led to one of the largest land deals in U.S. history, that being

Photo contributed

The Cherokee Indians play a prominent role in “Liberty!” as much of the land on which the Wataugans settled belonged to the Cherokees. The land buyout – The Transylvania Purchase – caused much friction between the Cherokees and the white settlers. Fort Watauga became a refuge and means of protection for all of the families living along the Watauga River when Dragging Canoe, aided by English agents, waged war against the pioneers, determined to drive them from the lands they felt they had purchased.

the Transylvania purchase, ” Pilk added.

“I like the drama, because it tells our history,” said Pilk, who noted that preparing for each summer’s performance of “Liberty!” requires a lot of work and time, as well as dedication from a large group of people. In addition to the actors who appear in the drama, Pilk noted there are many people behind the scenes who work diligently to ensure a topnotch performance each night.

“Even for those of us who have been doing this for a long time, we still have to hold a lot of practices to make sure we know our lines and where were’s supposed to be on stage,” he shared. “Depending on how large the part is, our actors can have a lot of lines to memorize.

Not only that, but the dialogue is changed a little every year to keep the story fresh, so we still have to learn new things every summer.”

“There are close to 100 people in the drama. Every year we have the full range of people from all age groups. There are kids as young as seven or eight, all the way up to people in their 70s and 80s,” he said. “It’s definitely a good representation from the

Outdoor Life | Page 18

community.”

This year, Pilk’s nephew, James Noah May, has a part in the drama. In the past, his grandson and granddaughters have had parts.

“They outgrew it, but I stuck with it,” he said.

Pilk believes the story of “Liberty!” presents some of the great moments, not only in our local history, but in America’s history.

“It’s the story of the Watauga Settlement, its beginning and its importance in the Revolutionary War,” Pilk said.

“Leaving the protection of the English colonies, long hunters and settlers began crossing the Appalachian Mountains in violation of the British Proclamation of 1763,” according to the production’s website. “Along the Watauga Old Fields, families soon made their homes, formed a new government, bought and traded land from the Cherokee, and ultimately, during the American Revolution, for the freedom we hold so dear today.” n See LIBERTY, 19

Liberty n Continued from 18

The story “Liberty!” tells begins with the earliest days of the Watauga Settlement along the Watauga Old Fields and the arrival of long hunters and European settlers on what was Cherokee land. As two very different cultures come together west of the Proclamation Line of 1763, coupled with the effects of the American Revolution, a host of dramatic and emotionally trying events begin to unfold in their lives.

Ultimately, the Watauga Association, the first majority-rule system of America democratic government, was formed in 1772, when the settlers elected five of their number “to govern and direct for the common good of all the people” These Articles of the Watauga Association invested in those elected representatives the legislative, judicial and executive functions of their fledgling government.

It was at Sycamore Shoals in March 1775 that the largest private real estate transaction in the nation’s history took place, the Transylvania Purchase. A company led by Richard Henderson of North Carolina bought 20

million acres of land, stretching from the Cumberland River watershed to the Kentucky River. The Transylvania Company paid the Cherokees 2,000 pounds sterling and goods worth an additional 8,000 pounds for the land.

Prior to the deal being closed, Native Americans totaling more than 1,200 spent weeks in counsel at Sycamore Shoals debating the merits of the deal. Cherokee warrior Dragging Canoe was firmly against giving up the land and resisted the deal, but was overridden by Chief Little Carpenter who ignored his misgivings and signed the deed amid great ceremony and celebration. In 1776, a year after the Transylvania Purchase, settlers constructed Fort Watauga on property owned by miller Matthew Talbott. The fort became a refuge and means of protection for all of the families living along the Watauga when Dragging Canoe, aided by English agents, waged war against the pioneers, determined to drive them from the lands they felt they had purchased.

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A band of warriors under Old Abram of Chilhowee laid siege to the fort for approximately three weeks, but when the settlers refused to surrender, the Indians gave up and departed.

The slate of leaders present at the Watauga settlement reads like a roster of state and national historical figures. The commanders included Col. John Carter, Capt. James Robertson, who would found Nashville a few years later, and Lt. John Sevier, the man who would be Tennessee’s first governor. One of the most significant events associated with Sycamore Shoals was the muster of the “Overmountain Men,” a militia comprised of citizens who fought and defeated a Loyalist army at the Battle of Kings Mountain. The Overmountain men were responding to a threat sent to the settlements via British Major Patrick Ferguson who was given command of the Loyalist militia in the Carolinas. If the “rebels” did not cease their opposition to the Crown, he threatened to “march his army over the mountains, hang the leaders and lay waste

their country with fire and sword.”

On Sept. 25, 1780, approximately 1,100 men gathered at Sycamore Shoals and marched in pursuit of Major Ferguson and his Loyalists. The Overmountain men caught up with Ferguson on Oct. 7 at King’s Mountain in South Carolina and soundly defeated the British forces with Ferguson being killed in the hour-long battle.

The victory of the “Overmountain Men” at King’s Mountain is considered by many historians to be a turning point in the Revolutionary War. Indeed, Sir Henry Clinton, commander of British forces in America, later pronounced Ferguson’s defeat at King’s Mountain as “the first link in a chain of events that followed each other in regular succession until they at last ended in the total loss of America.”

“Liberty!” will be performed this year July 11-13; 17-20; and 24-27. Performances are at 7:30 p.m.

The production has been designated Tennessee’s Official Outdoor Drama.

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CELEBRATING CELEBRATING NATURE NATURE

Rhododendron Festival highlights Roan Mountain’s natural beauty

BY ASHLEY RADER OL STAFF acarden@outdoor-life.net

The 66th annual Rhododendron Festival will be held Saturday, and Sunday, June 15 and 16, at Roan Mountain State Park.

The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day in the area between the amphitheater and the swimming pool in the state park.

When the festival got its start back in 1947, it was held at the top of Roan Mountain to take advantage of the blooming rhododendron gardens that are present there.

The Roan Mountain Citizens Club has been hosting the Rhododendron Festival since it first began. The Citizens Club was first started in 1946 by a group of Roan Mountain businessmen concerned about the local economy. The following year, the first Rhododendron Festival was held to memorialize and help perpetuate the natural flower gardens that grow on Roan Mountain. The Miss Rhododendron Pageant was held every year from 1948 until the mid-1970s. That event was originally held in the Rhododendron Gardens on top of the mountain, but was later moved to the state park.

The festival started as a combined effort between citizens of Roan Mountain and a neighboring community in

Photo by Brandon Hicks

The gorgeous blooms of Catawba rhododendron on the slopes of Roan Mountain attract visitors every June from far and wide.

North Carolina but over the years the festival became a Roan Mountain project and the North Carolina citizens started to host their own festival.

The Rhododendron Festival will have over 100 arts and crafts and food vendors that will be offering their items for the visitor’s consideration.

“The festival has a large variety of fine arts and crafts,” said Kelsey Tipton with the Roan Mountain Citizens Club. “We have people who have won awards for their paintings, photographs and other creations. It is a wonderful variety.”

The festival also features a diversity of food vendors.

“There is lots of food, ranging from meal items to snacks like Sno-Cones,” Tipton adds ed. k Hic Brandon Photo by p There will also be live er of dee rves a platt previous se r o plants for sale and the Citid n e v a ring A food . otatoes du in p ta t n u u c zens Club will have their o la M ir oan fried sp estival in R F n ro d n own tent where they will e Rhodod have a new printing of the original cookbook from

years, the festival has had an average attendance of over 20,000 people from all over the Southeast United States. They have also come from as far as California, Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, Canada and Scotland.

Among the Roan Mountain Citizens Club’s early accomplishments was acquiring a two-lane highway to the top of Roan Mountain. State Route 143 was completed in 1952. The road to the top was previously a narrow, one-way passage. The state park, which is accessed by the highway, was created in the 1950s and developed in the 1970s.

Park visitors can enjoy tent or RV camping in the campground or rent one of 30 cabins. The park also features picnic shelters, a swimming pool, tennis courts, children’s play areas and extensive hiking trails. Trout fishing on the Doe River, which flows through the park, is another highlight. A convention center was built within the park in 2000.

The club supports the Roan Mountain Community Park, and former club member Don Christman, assisted by the late David Fleming, was instrumental in obtaining land to construct a Frisbee Golf Course as part of the community park on Highway 19E in Roan Mountain village.

For more information on the Rhododendron Festival or the Roan Mountain Citizens Club, visit www.roanmountain.com.

1980 for sale. The citizen’s club will also have car tags, T-shirts and would be selling cold water and soft drinks.

Entertainment will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Chicory Jam will start the entertainment at 10 a.m. Bass Brake will perform at 11 a.m. and Rose in the Rain will play at 12 p.m. Tom Love will place at 1 p.m. A scholarship presentation will be made at 2 p.m. and Roan Mountain Moonshiners will play at 2:05 p.m. Mountain Rose will place at 3 p.m. and Sound Traveler at 4 p.m.

Sunday entertainment will begin at 10 a.m. with open mic for any gospel entertainer until 1 p.m.

Gospel Grass will play at 1 p.m.; Royal Vision at 2 p.m. and Greater Glory Entertainm Outdoor Life File P ent during at 3 p.m. Open mic for hoto the Rhodo includes liv d e e n p dron Festiv e rf o any gospel entertainer rm a n c well as sho al es from va ws by diffe ri will be held from 4-5 rent cloggin ous bands, as g groups. p.m. to close out Sunday’s entertainment.

Over the past few

Outdoor Life | Page 20

Wine n Continued from 17

and give more autonomy to shops to stock what they and their customers like, Yarrow says.

As a resident of the San Francisco Bay area, where summer means slightly more fog, Yarrow tends to drink the same wines year-round. Still, if he’s planning a barbecue (maybe in the one warm month, October) he’ll find himself leaning toward a wine like Ravenswood zinfandel, widely available and a good pairing for hearty roast meats .

— MORE SUMMER PICKS From Yarrow: — Robert Sinskey Pinot Gris, $22. “I think it’s one of the best value wines in the country. Really light, really savory, really juicy.”

— MacRostie Chardonnay, $15. “One of the wines you can find relatively easily. Great acidity and good fruit.”

— Chateau St. Michelle Eroica Riesling, $22. “A great spring and summer wine, even over ice.” (This was a Kampfe pick, too.)

— Borsao Tinto, under $10. A Spanish red wine made with the grenache grape. This is “great for grilling and backyard barbecuing and typical summer entertaining.”

From Taylor: — Crios de Susana Balbao Torrontes, around $14. Made with Argentina’s signature white grape, “it’s really got these beautiful aromatics, really floral. On the palate, it’s nice and peachy.”

— Toad Hollow Mendocino Chardonnay, $12 to 13. An unoaked style of chardonnay, which means the wine has not spent time in oak barrels and therefore is a fresher-tasting, fruitier wine. “Most people think of chardonnays with these buttery, oaky overtones and a sort of richness to AP Photo/Matthew Mead them, but really that comes from a wineFrom left, Ravenswood Zinfandel, Edna Valley Chardonnay, Chateau St. Michelle maker’s perspective. Chardonnay if left Eroica Riesling and Matua Valley Sauvignon Blanc go well with most summer fare. unoaked is actually a little bit more acidic; it’s got some lemony tones to it and a nice bright crispness.” kling Wine, $15. A crisp, sparkling wine. California making sparkling wines, a nice — Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs Spar- “Gloria Ferrer is one of the older houses in trustworthy name.”

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ELIZABETHTON’ ELIZABETHTON’ S S JEWEL JEWEL

Historic covered bridge is major tourist attraction for area

BY ROZELLA HARDIN OL STAFF rhardin@outdoor-life.net

Lindamood are said to be the carpenters who did the actual construction work on the bridge. The cost of building the bridge has been estimated at between $5,000 and $6,000.

Horace Broome remembers as a boy playMaterials used in the construction of the ing in the Covered Bridge and in the Doe River bridge were chosen to withstand the elements under the bridge. “In the wintertime, the river for a much longer period of time than that would freeze over, and we would ice skate on which has elapsed since it was completed in it. The river doesn’t freeze now, like it use to,” 1882. Massive oak pieces were used in the Broome said. floor, fastened together by enormous steel Children, today, still play in the Doe River spikes, the only steel used in the structure. A at the Covered Bridge, and every generation maze of cross pieces were fitted into the overhas its stories to tell about the old bridge, head work. Weatherboarding was placed over which has become Elizabethton’s most poputhe sturdy skeleton framework. lar landmark.

The original reason for the cover was to When the bridge was built in 1882, Elizaprotect the bridge’s trusses and deck from bethton was still just a small farm town. Howsnow and rain, preventing decay and rot. The ever, the town soon grew to expand across the cover served other purposes also — it kept river and into a “boom” town and an indushorses from being spooked by the waters untrial community. The Historic Covered Bridge derneath and was a reprieve from the weather during its 131-year history has endured the to the weary traveler. ravages of flood, age and that to motor veEach time the bridge has hicles. been renovated, a crew of 10 to When it was first built, the town’s people 12 persons have worked on the jokingly referred to it as “the $5 bridge — two to three times the number of the original crew.

For a number of years, the Covered Bridge and the foot bridge over the Doe at Elk Avenue were the only two crossings on the river.

The foot bridge was but a narrow wooden bridge with handrails and crisscrossed sides for protection. That bridge was torn away and now standing in its place is another architectural landmark — the Elk ks ndon Hic ra B y Avenue Bridge. b Photo re some tu a fe d n a Up until 1920, the year, June 19, r days this , u ay fo sd e to n d d e n pa n from W most two bridges were suftion will ex stival will ru ne of Elizabethton’s fe ge Celebra d s r’ ri a B ficient for the town ye d re is o d is nnual Cove rtainers. Th in 1882 an t il u b s The 47th A ies to meet the ente a as business centered w e unit d old bridg new opport ay, June 22. The gran around the area turd through Sa where the Monument now stands. dmarks. popular lan The town at that time was still mostly located along Main Street and east of the Doe River. bridge,” that being the amount that Dr. E.E. Hunter, overseer of the bridge-building project, had left over when all the bills for the material and construction were paid.

A committee, composed of J.J. McCorkle, Wiley W. Christian and H.M. Renfro, selected the site for the bridge in 1861. However, the Civil War shelved the project, and the bridge was not built for another 20 years. Members of the construction crew were Thomas E. Matson, W.M. Folsom, J.M. Cameron and J.M. Simerly.

The old bridge was built entirely by hand without the aid of scientific devices other than the average tools found in any carpenter’s kit. It was designed by a civil engineer, whose major work was the planning of railroads and at a cost which would seem ridiculous to the average civil engineer.

Col. Thomas E. Matson, who built the narrow gauge Tweetsie railroad through Carter County, designed and supervised the construction of the bridge. A.T. Johnson, George Perry and Mike

Outdoor Life | Page 22

Legend has it that Miss Fannie Atwater, daughter of the town’s Presbyterian minister, was the first to cross the bridge when it was completed. Miss Atwater lived at the eastern end of the bridge on Third Street and resided there until her death.

The old bridge has been the sight of much activity during its lifetime, and if it could talk it could tell many amusing and historical tales.

Among those stories might be that of the peddler in his horse-drawn wagon, who crossed the bridge regularly in a quest to sell his wares, the town doctor, who rode a horse to see his patients, the bootlegger, peddling his whiskey in the dark of night from the bridge, sweethearts kissing and carving their initials in a heart on its wood, baptizings in the chilly Doe, and boys, who on a spring day played hooky from school and spent their time fishing from the banks of the Doe below the bridge.

However, the bridge has performed no greater task with more benefit than during the May flood of 1901. It was the only bridge in the city left standing over which the residents of “Old Town” could cross the raging Doe to safety on higher ground.

The families from Cat Island drove their wagons and carriages through the Covered Bridge to the home of Gov. Robert L. Taylor, formerly the Jobe home. Mrs. Taylor and her neighbors, the Dungans and Rhudys, served hot coffee all that night to the refugees from across the river and welcomed them to the haven of their lawns and porches.

At that time there was a sign posted on the bridge which warned: $5 Fine To Ride or Drive Faster Than A Walk Over This Bridge.” However, the night of the 1901 flood, many fled over the bridge at breakneck speeds.

Noted today more for its beauty and history than for its commercial value, the bridge captures the fancy of both amateur and professional photographers. Camera studies of the bridge, showing its perfect reflection in the river below, have delighted tourists for years.

One of the great institutions of early America, the covered bridge is fast disappearing from the countryside. Elizabethton’s Historic Covered Bridge is one of only six that remain in Tennessee.

GOING GOING OFF-ROAD OFF-ROAD

To get those fantastic mountain views, try two-wheels

BY NATHAN BAKER OL STAFF nbaker@outdoor-life.net

For off-road, two-wheeled fun, SORBA Tri-Cities President Anthony Duncan said the region offers “fantastic” mountain biking opportunities.

His group, formerly the Northeast Tennessee Mountain Biking Association, helps to maintain approximately 70 miles of trails in parks and on private land spread from Kingsport to Hampton.

“Our first project was Warriors Path State Park, which now has about 9 miles of trails,” Duncan said. “Since then we’ve expanded our trail network and can offer everything from beginner trails to more technical climbs and descents for people who are more advanced.”

Duncan said SORBA Tri-Cities has approximately 80 members on average, and a core group of 30 who actively participate in the club’s events.

“We try to get out there and do as much as we can to keep the trails in good shape for ourselves and other riders,” he said.

The local charter covers about a 60 mile radius, Dun-

can said, with members hailing from Bristol, Tenn., to Big Stone Gap to the North Carolina border.

All of the trails SORBA builds and maintains are created using standards set by the International Mountain Biking Association, taking into account the environment and terrain and trying to get the best use out of the land for the most people.

In Hampton, the four miles of SORBA maintained trails wind through densely-wooded land, with three loops representing three different ability levels, from beginner to advanced.

From the trail head near Hampton Elementary, the trail climbs more than 400 feet to a scenic overlook before plunging back down for a white-knuckle push back to the start.

Duncan said SORBA is always looking for new members and volunteers enthusiastic about mountain biking and ready to have fun.

To join, visit sorba.org. Membership fees are $30 a year for individuals and $50 for families.

To view some of the SORBA-maintained trails in the area, visit ntmba.org.

Outdoor Life | Page 23

A refreshin g enjoy nature way to is to take advantage o f the many bike trails in the area.

ANGLING ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES

Fish and boat technology available, affordable to anyone

BY MAX HRENDA OL STAFF mhrenda@outdoor-life.net

For some people, the act of going fishing can be pretty simple. Rod. Reel. Hook. Bait.

Even though Michael Elswick is in possession of some of the most advanced technology in the world of fishing, he said he hopes people remember that simplicity.

“You can take a rowboat, go out, and still catch fish,” Elswick said. “Then you have this end, but it’s there for everybody to enjoy.”

The “end” Elswick referred to involved machines like a down imaging sonar, a remotecontrolled trolling motor and the latest in navigation software. Though Elswick often uses this equipment during the course of his business — as owner of Reelin’ Time Charters in Johnson City — he added that fishermen can get the same feeling of satisfaction without it.

“I would say the entertainment value, at the end of the day, is the same,” Elswick said.

“But, if you want (the technology), it’s there, and there’s never been a better time with the

competition between manufacturers.”

At the head of Elswick’s five-vessel fleet is a 1973 Mako 17. Though the boat is nearly 40 years old, the addition of several new technologies give the Mako a few advantages over modern-day fishing boats.

“Technology has made it to where the everyday person can go out and find fish,” Elswick said. “Now that down imaging has come along, I can get a real picture of what’s underneath.”

The down imaging hardware, created by a company called Humminbird, uses two monitors that Elswick has placed near the Mako’s steering wheel. The device uses high-frequency sound waves emitted in ultra-thin slices.

When the sonar returns from these waves, it provides an image of what is underneath, and on the side, of a vessel, without needing to worry about murky waters.

“It cuts right through it, and any boat will work,” Elswick said. “It’s basically a real-life picture under the water. You can dial it in so if there’s a pop bottle, you can show it.”

While this equipment used to cost well into

the thousands, Elswick said that competition, and the progression of time, have made down imaging devices much more affordable.

“It used to be, you’d put $3,000 or $4,000 into it,” Elswick said. “Now, for $300, you can get a down imager in grayscale. That’s with speed, coordinates, map and everything built in.”

In regards to coordinates, Elswick pointed to an app for his cellphone known as Navonics, which serves to show fishermen exactly what the conditions are like underneath the water.

“For $4.99, I have a whole map of the lake that shows me contours, depth and seabed,” Elswick said. “I can also shoot a visual picture of that coordinate, so Photo by Brandon Reelin’ T (later) I can go right back to it. And it’s Hicks ime Char ters own M ic hael Elswic all off of the phone.” er k stan Even for those who haven’t joined wheel of his 1973 M ds behind the ak the cellphone revolution, there are still the boat itself is 40o 17. Though Elswick ha years old, s outfitted devices that can be used to make fish- o it with som f the latest e in boating ing trips easier. Elswick admitted that tech nology.

n See TECHNOLOGY, 33

TWRA highlights region’s most productive fishing spots

BY MAX HRENDA OL STAFF mhrenda@outdoor-life.net

don Hicks Photo by Bran

in the ng waist-deep di an st le hi w make hes Rod Savage fis said he tries to ge nt va de si Sa . re ge . id Va , Roanoke Bridge Road br . near the Steel in the Watauga Watauga River a year” to fish ce on t as le t it down “a

As the skies get clearer and the weather gets warmer, many in our area are preparing for a summer spent in several of the region’s rivers, lakes and streams in the hopes of landing a few fish.

For those who are new to the area, new to the sport of fishing, or just want a better idea of where the best spots are and what species are in the area, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency can be a valuable resource.

According to Bart Carter, fisheries manager for TWRA, northeast Tennessee is one of the state’s — and, in some areas, the nation’s — most abundant source of fish life.

“There’s quite a bit of opportunity up there,” Carter said. “Probably the majority of the trout fishing in the state is up there

Outdoor Life | Page 24

in Carter, Johnson and Unicoi counties.”

Carter said that Carter County presented fishermen with several options that weren’t readily available throughout the state of Tennessee. Among the species of fish that can be found in Carter County’s waterways are largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, brown trout, rainbow trout and catfish.

“There’s a pretty good variety of game species (in Carter County),” Carter said.

“There are many fish that are found there that aren’t in some of our other reservoirs.

But Carter County has its fair share of trout fishing, both in the reservoirs, the tail waters and those smaller mountain streams.”

In order to maintain the trout fishing population, TWRA annually repopulates those waterways to ensure that anglers will n See SPOTS, 33

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The Kiwanis Club of Erwin will sponsor another season of Campfire Programs at Rock Creek Recreation Area from June 14 to Aug. 9.

Erwin Kiwanis Campfire Program back at Rock Creek for 20th season

The Kiwanis Club of Erwin — with support from the Cherokee National Forest Service — will present the 20th annual series of the popular Campfire Programs at the Rock Creek Recreation Area Amphitheater, near Erwin, at 8 p.m. every Friday night from June 14 through Aug. 9.

The programs include a variety of local country, bluegrass and contemporary Christian music groups. As always, the programs are absolutely free, including a marshmallow roast with marshmallows and spits provided. It’s no wonder that the programs are loved by children and adults alike.

Below is a listing of this year’s line-up: • The series kicks off June 14 with the Erwin-based and ever-popular Raven Wood featuring Erwin locals Adam Clouse, Jason Tilson, Jeff Crow and Stacey Peake. The group plays country/rock, Southern rock and classic rock.

• Back by popular demand, the The Adam Larkey Band performs June 21. Adam heads up the band on fiddle along with his father and guitar player, Eric Larkey, and his sister, Sarah Grace, on vocals. The Unicoi family is

backed by an all-star cast of local bluegrass musicians.

• Youth for Christ will take to the stage at the park amphitheater on June 28. Local youth groups are encouraged to attend this special evening. Musical entertainment will be provided by Amber Dunnavant and Southside Baptist Church of Johnson City’s At His Feet.

• On July 5, attendees will see and hear pickin’ and grinnin’ by the Rock Creek Ramblers, a band whose members are regulars at the campfire. Chances are you’ll be doing a lot of the grinning yourself during this show.

• Another returning favorite — Unicoi County Sheriff Mike Hensley and his band, The Spivey Mountain Boys, will perform July 12. Made up of Sheriff Hensley’s brother, Marlin, his son Jamie, and Bobby Ramsey, these boys know how to pick bluegrass.

• An exciting new Contemporary Christian group, At His Feet, will perform July 19.

The group plays praise, worship and contemporary Christian music. The band is comn See CAMPFIRE, 27

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Campfire n Continued from 25

prised of musicians and vocalists from the Johnson City and Erwin area.

• The weekly series will continue July 26, but the performer is yet to be determined.

On Aug. 2, Decker & Skinner and the Blue Ridge Cut-Ups will perform their traditional bluegrass music.

These acts are newcomers to the summer series.

At the conclusion of the series on Aug. 9, attendees will enjoy a great musical program by The String Fever Bluegrass Band. This five-piece acoustic ensemble plays traditional bluegrass, fiddle tunes and original music that will make listeners tap their toes and get them out of their chairs.

These programs are absolutely free, including the free marshmallow roast that closes out each week’s program. There’s nothing to buy, and no hat will be passed.

In the event of rain, programs will be moved just down the road to Rock Creek Presbyterian Church.

To get to the Rock Creek Recreation Area, exit from Interstate 26 in Erwin at Exit 36. Turn left (east) and proceed to the first red light. Turn right on North Main Street, then turn left on Highway 395. Proceed less than two miles to Rock Creek Recreation Area, then follow signs to the Campfire Program.

Photo by Bryan Stevens

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TEE TEE TIME TIME

Area golf courses look for ways to attract younger enthusiasts

BY CURTIS CARDEN OL STAFF ccarden@outdoor-life.net

The sun’s inviting glare and the crisp summer air has Tri-Cities’ golf enthusiasts saying one thing this time of the year.

“Time to tee-off.”

Golf courses around northeast Tennessee will be hotbeds of driving on the fairways and looking for that eagle on hole 14. Throughout the summer, the Elizabethton Golf Course looks to toss its name into the hat with a few events coming in the near future.

Adam Shanks, the head golf professional at the course and a former Science Hill High School and Austin Peay golf standout, knows events can do well but the main focus is to begin the excitement at the younger level.

“They’re the future,” he said. “We want to begin offering events to bring the kids out and get them interested in the sport at an early age.”

One of the bigger draws for this summer, according to Shanks, is the upcoming Dennis Walters Golf Exhibition.

“In his early 20s, Dennis was on the verge of becoming a professional golfer,” Shanks explained. “But then he was involved in a golf cart accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.”

He didn’t let this tragic accident get in his way.

“Instead of stopping, he’s been putting on golf exhibits for boys and girls across the nation,” Shanks said. “We’re looking forward to having him here.”

The event is scheduled to begin on Friday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost of admission is free.

“We’d like to be able to have about 200 or more boys and girls make it out for the exhibit,” Shanks said. “It’s something new we’re able to bring to the course and I’m sure people would really enjoy it.”

Along with the Walters’ exhibition, the Glow Ball always draws in the big crowds, Shanks said.

“We’re holding our first sign-up for the

Golfers take to their carts to participate in one of the ann Photo by Brandon Hicks ual summer tournaments hel d at the Elizabethton Golf Co urse.

glowball tournament in a couple of days and we’re already expecting it to fill up on day one,” he said. “It’s like that every year.

It has become one of the biggest draws at the golf course.”

For the golfers in Elizabethton, Hampton or Johnson County, you won’t find a much better golf course around, according to Shanks.

“It’s the best I’ve seen the greens,” Shanks said. “We’ve got a driving-range, offer lessons and have good rates with other golf courses in the area.”

Prices are $25 for access throughout the weekdays while the prices goes to $32 on the weekend. After 2:30 p.m. on the weekend and early in the morning, however, discount $25 rates are in effect.

For anyone interested in more information on upcoming events, membership rates and more, be sure to visit the course’s

website at: http://www.elizabethtongolf. com.

Tri-Cities Golf Course The races in Sullivan County are not just limited to Bristol Motor Speedway.

Tri-Cities Golf Course is another local golf course in the area that features fair rates while offering different tournament activities throughout the summer.

Each week, the course offers a Thursday night scramble that begins at 5 p.m.

Johnson City Country Club If you are looking for gold — and then some — then the Johnson City Country Club may be the choice.

While offering multiple avenues for golfers — the course also provides tennis and swim camps to go along other sorts of athletics activities during the season.

Outdoor Life | Page 26

One of the most anticipated tournaments coming in the summer will be played at the venue. The Tillinghast Invitational has been one of the biggest draws for the club since it began nine years ago.

For more information on the club, be sure to visit www.jcccsite.com.

Buffalo Valley/Pine Oaks The country club in Johnson City isn’t the only golf experience in Washington County.

Pine Oaks Golf Course, on Buffalo Road in Johnson City, and Buffalo Valley Golf Course, in Unicoi, are a pair of courses people can feel free to enjoy if the traveling is too far to either Elizabethton or Blountville.

For more information on these courses, visit www.johnsoncitygolf.org.

Campfire n Continued from 25

prised of musicians and vocalists from the Johnson City and Erwin area.

• The weekly series will continue July 26, but the performer is yet to be determined.

On Aug. 2, Decker & Skinner and the Blue Ridge Cut-Ups will perform their traditional bluegrass music.

These acts are newcomers to the summer series.

At the conclusion of the series on Aug. 9, attendees will enjoy a great musical program by The String Fever Bluegrass Band. This five-piece acoustic ensemble plays traditional bluegrass, fiddle tunes and original music that will make listeners tap their toes and get them out of their chairs.

These programs are absolutely free, including the free marshmallow roast that closes out each week’s program. There’s nothing to buy, and no hat will be passed.

In the event of rain, programs will be moved just down the road to Rock Creek Presbyterian Church.

To get to the Rock Creek Recreation Area, exit from Interstate 26 in Erwin at Exit 36. Turn left (east) and proceed to the first red light. Turn right on North Main Street, then turn left on Highway 395. Proceed less than two miles to Rock Creek Recreation Area, then follow signs to the Campfire Program.

Photo by Bryan Stevens

A woman and her canine companion glide across the tranquil waters of Wilbur Lake in a kayak. The small Carter County lake offers opportunities for trout fishing, nature watching, camping, kayaking and boating.

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MOUNTAIN MOUNTAIN HIDEAWAY HIDEAWAY

Meredith Valley Farm and Cabins perfect for weddings, vacations

BY ROZELLA HARDIN OL STAFF rhardin@outdoor-life.net

Leo Meredith enjoys the family farm on the Watauga Road, in fact, the whole family does. They also enjoy sharing it with others.

The centerpiece of the farm is the 1918 farmhouse, which has been completely restored and includes two kitchens, three bathrooms, and four bedrooms, which is ideal for family reunions and weddings.

Meredith’s father, the late Lloyd Meredith, purchased the farm, which originally belonged to the Taylor family, in the 1960s. For a time, the farm was a working farm with cattle grazing the pasture fields. Now, it has been turned in into a “pleasure place,” and on any given day in the summer, the farmhouse may be the scene of a family outing, church picnic, or even a wedding or a bridal party.

“We already have five or six weddings booked for the summer,” Meredith said.

He noted that it is a popular meeting place for sportsmen, who enjoy the serene and rural atmosphere provided on the farm.

In addition to the farmhouse, there are four different cabins located on the farm next to the river. Each is decorated in a different theme – Hunter, Western, Farmhouse and the Americana. The difference between the cabins are the inside decor and scenic views “The cabins are decorated according to the cabin title and each comes with a fully functional kitchen, cable TV, central heat and air, and a fireplace, Meredith said.

Located on the Watauga river, the cabins are the perThe Meredith Va fect location for people, who enjoy trout fishing, canoelley cabins loca ted on Meredith ci ally fishermen ing, kyaking, and other water sports.

Valley Lane are and hunters. A Photo contri lso, a lot of peop buted popular with to are located on le from out of ur the Watauga R is Meredith said the cabins are used by hunters, fisherts in the area, espetown visiting fa iver. mily stay at the men, families visiting the area, and people just passing cabins, which through. Some stay for a few days, others a week, and some for just a night.

“Some of our guests enjoy using the cabins for their vacation hideway while here visiting with friends and family. They have a front porch waterside as well as outdoor class reunions, and even office holiday pargrills, fire pit and riverside decks,” Meredith said. ties.

“We have folks, who are repeaters. They come back each year for a stay at the farm,” “The farm is our home, but it’s also a place we like to share with others. We want it he said. to be a fun place where memories can be created,” said Meredith.

In addition to the farmhouse and cabins on the river, the farm has two reception The fully-equipped cabins provide all the ingredients you need for a truly memorable areas – the Barnyard and Riverside Lounge. Both venues provide a rustic chic ambiance vacation, including peaceful views. The location of the cabins on the Watauga River and relaxing atmosphere. puts visitors close to trophy trout fishing, canoeing/kayaking or a porch rocking chair Just as the farm house is decorated with photos, which tell stories of the house’s past perfect for relaxing near the water’s edge. as well as the present, antique pieces which date back as far as the 1800s can be found Prices vary during holidays and peak seasons such as spring and summer. in the barnyard. There is vintage solid wood bars, authentic tin signage, superb crafts in To check on availability, make reservations or for more information, call (423) 543addition to numerous antiques.

8603 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or (423) 543-8131 evenings and weekends.

Meredith said both venues have been used for wedding receptions, birthday parties, Information is also available by emailingl info@meredithvalleycabins.com.

Outdoor Life | Page 28

Weighing your vacation options?

Try our scales.

In uniquely Unicoi County, Tennessee

Find out more about Unicoi County at unicoicountytn.gov

Photo by Adam Campbell Photography/ http://www.adamcphotography.com

Outdoor Life | Page 29

DIRT TRACK RACING RACING DIRT TRACK

Pure speed main appeal of Volunteer Speedway

BY RICK SHEEK OL STAFF rsheek@outdoor-life.net

BULLS GAP – Legendary Volunteer Speedway is just an hour away, with the reputation as the world’s fastest dirt track.

“One of the appeals of the race track down there is pure speed,” said Volunteer Speedway Public Relations Director Robert Walden. “It’s fast, it’s high-banked and you’re going to see a lot of exciting door-to-door action that you don’t seen in NASCAR anymore.”

Volunteer boasts its impressive position in the world of dirt racing, recognized by the fans and drivers as one of the country’s top venues.

All of the country’s top Late Model series have visited “The Gap”, such as: National Dirt Racing Association (NDRA) during the 1970s and 1980s, along with the Hav-A-Tampa Dirt Racing Series, Short Track Auto Racing Series (STARS), Xtreme DirtCar Series, United Dirt Track Racing Association, Pro DirtCar Series, Renegade DirtCar Racing Series, and since 2000 – Southern All Stars Racing Series, Tennessee Thunder Dirt Car Series, World of Outlaws Late Model Series, Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, Fastrak Racing Series, Ultimate Super Late Model Series, and Volunteer Racing Series.

Winged sprint car racing’s best have been in action on the high banks with the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series, All-Star Circuit

of Champions, World of Outlaws (Gumout) Sprint Car Series, and United Sprint Car Series.

But there is also a weekly program on the the high-banked (32 degrees), 4/10-mile speedplant. Besides the Late Model main feature, Modified Hobby, Open Wheel Modified and Mini Stock run.

In more recent years, the Dillon brothers competed at Bulls Gap. The grandsons of famed NASCAR car owner Richard Childress and sons of RCR Director of Competition Mike Dillon, Austin from the Nationwide Series and Ty of Camping World Truck.

“Those boys grew up around racing their entire lives,” Walden said. “The first time they got down there, they said this is a like a smaller version of Bristol with dirt on it and the high banks.”

Wendell Wallace of Batesville, Ark., is the current Super Late Model track record holder, having toured the oval at 120.004 mph in 1998 – one year before the track was reconfigured in spring of 1999 – making it 40-feet wider on the backstretch exiting turn two.

The facility was built by Hugh and Louise Goan. Construction work began in 1973 and the track opened for half a season in mid-1974.

Danny Burks of Richlands, Va., was the winner of the first-ever Late Model race, driving a ’73 Chevy Laguna to the checkered flag.

“The Malabar Missile” Kenny Adams ran

121.982 mph during time trials for the United Sprint Car Series’ “North-South Shootout” in 2000.

Seymour’s Gusty Christenberry ran 122.630 mph in his “outlaw” Late Model with sideboards in 2003.

Next up to lower the standard, on an historic Saturday night before the track’s biggest crowd ever in 2007, the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series made its first-ever appearance at the track, and Brownsburg, Ind.’s Joey Saldana toured “The Gap” at 123.119 mph.

“The Bartlett Bullet” Terry Gray, a seventime United Sprint Car Series national champion, toured Volunteer at 123.384 mph in 2008.

During time trials for “Kasey’s King of Bulls Gap” World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series weekend in 2010, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star Kasey Kahne clicked off a pass of 140.378 mph.

Among the former track champions are East Tennessee dirt legends Herman Collins of Knoxville in 1975, the first full-season of racing at the track; Red Ledford of Morristown in 1976; Walter Ball of Johnson City in 1977; H.E. Vineyard of Powell in 1978, ’79, ’81, and ’84 captured four track championships; Herb “Tootle” Estes of Knoxville in 1980; “Little” Bill Corum of Maynardville in 1982; Bill Morton of Church Hill in 1983; Howard “Buzz” Collins of Greeneville in 1985; J.T. Kerr of

Rockford in 1989.

Knoxville’s Herman Goddard followed in 1990; Pigeon Forge’s Scott Sexton in 1991 and ’95; Greeneville’s Gary Myers in 1992; Bluff City’s John A. Utsman in 1993; Dave Burks of Richlands, Va., in 1994; Johnson City’s Randy Ford in 1996; Morristown’s Vic Hill in 1997 and ’98; and Johnson City’s Dale Ball in 1999.

Morristown’s Vic Hill captured the 2000 championship. The 2001 title was won by Bristol’s Kerry Jones, with Mark Douglas of Knoxville taking back-to-back titles in 2002 and ’03.

Kingsport’s Rick Norris captured his first title in 2004. Vic Hill was crowned the 2005 champion, with Mike Smith of Rogersville claimed the 2006 trophy.

Jones recorded his second crown in 2007, with Greeneville’s Jeff Maupin prevailing in 2008. Hill moved into a category all to himself as he won his record fifth Super Late Model title in 2009, while Maupin claimed his second championship in 2010.

The Southern All-Star Dirt Racing Series Scott Sexton Memorial 52 was held June 1.

The winning purse for that event was $5,200, and the usual program precluded the feature.

“One thing about the track down there,” Walden said. “It’s an easy drive to it.”

Volunteer Speedway is located in Greene County just off Interstate 81 at Exit 23.

Volunteer Speedway in Bulls Gap offers dirt track racing designed for “pure speed.”

Photo Contributed

Outdoor Life | Page 30

UP UP THE THE RIVER RIVER

Paddle boarding offers alternative to traditional kayaking

BY NATHAN BAKER OL STAFF nbaker@outdoor-life.net

A local family of entrepreneurs could be the key this summer to a thrilling time on the water.

Teresa Nidiffer, who — along with her husband John Dunlap — owns Watauga Kayak, said rafting and kayaking on the local rivers and lakes is one of the best ways to tour Carter County.

“I’ve been all over the country, and Little Wilbur is one of the pretties places you’ll see,” Nidiffer said. “You can paddle right next to a beaver lodge, there are wildflowers growing from both sides, and then you have the mountain laurel and rhododendron, it’s just such an incredible place.”

With guided tours and rentals from the riverside business, paddlers can see those sights on Little Wilbur or shoot the rapids on local tributaries.

“Rafting has always been pretty popular,”

Nidiffer said. “We’ve got the Bee Cliffs right in our back yard, and we offer several different trips, anywhere from 4.5 to 16.5 miles long on the river.”

Customers of Watauga Kayak’s guided rafting tours end their trips at the outfitter’s own ramp right on the Watauga River.

“Since the rain has stopped, we’ve been pretty busy all week,” she said. “We’ve had really nice weather, and river conditions are just right for trips.”

If flatwater excursions are more to your liking, Watauga Kayak also offers river-suited boats, and Nidiffer’s sister, Tanya Weaver, owns a standup paddle board rental shop at Fish Springs Marina.

“We always loved the water,” Nidiffer said.

“We started our business in 1998, and my sister worked for me for several years. Last year she started her paddle board company, and it’s really taken off.”

Paddle boarding is a recreational activity that uses a surf board, but the rider uses a

paddle and travels on flat water.

The boarder stands up and paddles on either side of the board instead of catching a wave.

Nidiffer said the paddle boards are remarkably stable, and most beginners catch on quickly.

“It’s a pretty fun thing to do,” she said. “She has races and all kinds of events out on the lake.”

Nidiffer attributed her love of the water to Charles and Martha Shell, who she said were pioneers of the local rafting industry.

“They were really helpful when we got started,” she said. “But Charles unfortunately passed away last year.”

Photo contri A group of kaya buted To schedule tours at Watauga kers gather toge ther during one of the gu Kayak, call 542-6777. Weaver’s ided excursions led by local business Watau ga Kayak. paddle board company, Off the Grid Adventures, can be reached at 725-2572.

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(828) 385-2675 Outdoor Life | Page 31

GARDENING GARDENING MADE MADE EASY EASY

Six basic steps ensure a bountiful harvest

Each year, thousands of first-timers will join the millions of seasoned gardeners who already know the satisfaction of picking a perfect tomato at its peak, serving up salads from greens just grown right outside the back door, or harvesting home-grown peppers and specialty herbs never even seen at the grocery store.

Most of us want that home-grown, healthy goodness that veggie and herb gardens provide, but sometimes it’s hard to figure out just where to start. Diligent effort and smart investment can result in lessthan-expected results, but starting your own produce plot and reaping its rewards is not out of your reach.

Even a small garden can fill your table with fresh, nutritious food, and help save money, too. In addition to the satisfaction you’ll get from growing your own food, gardening delivers a host of other health benefits, from low-impact exercise to boosting vitamin D levels with the hours you’ll spend in the sunshine.

Whether you start with a few containers on your patio, create a raised bed in a side yard or go big and plant a grand victory garden, gardening can be easy if you start with these six simple steps.

Step 1: Pick transplants — While every plant starts from a seed, transplants make establishing your garden easier, and help ensure better success. Transplants, like Bonnie Plants which are grown regionally across the country and available at most garden retailers, nationwide, can trim six to eight weeks off growing time, and allow you to skip over the hard part of the growing process when plants are most vulnerable — so they’re more likely to survive and thrive.

Bonnie Plants offers a wide variety of veggies and herbs, available in biodegradable pots, making the selection process easy. Plant what you eat and try some easy-to-grow favorites, like these: • Easy herbs — The volatile oils that make herbs valuable in cooking also naturally repel many insects and garden pests. Try basils, parsley, rosemary and something new, like grapefruit mint, which tastes as refreshing as it sounds.

• Bell peppers — You’ll find the Bell peppers grown in your own backyard will taste sweeter than those bought from your grocer.

Harvest them green or red, when vitamin levels are higher. Bonnie offers the classic “Bonnie Bell,” that’s a productive proven winner.

• Eggplant — Eggplant thrives in hot weather. Try easy grow “Black Beauty” or something different like the whiteskinned “Cloud Nine.”

• Lettuce — Go for “leaf” ntributed Photo Co lettuces like “Buttercrunch,” flowertables with e g e v “Red Sails,” or Romaine. h d c n a su any Mix herbs ing ease. M w ro g n They’ll tolerate more heat a r c fo t tha ing annuals containers in ll e w than head lettuces and if w plants gro and patios. s k c e d n o you keep picking the leaves be located you’ll get multiple harvests.

• Summer squash —

Squash are easy-grow too, and very productive. Try zucchini “Black Beauty” or new-for-2013 Golden Scallop Patty Pan Squash.

Many gardeners call this the flying saucer squash because of its unique shape. The flavor is delicate and mild, similar to zucchini.

• Tomatoes — These crimson favorites are the most popular backyard vegetable. Choose diseaseresistant “Better Boy,” “Bonnie Original” or the extra-easy cherry tomato “Sweet 100.”

Step 2: Location, location, location Be sure the spot you choose for your plants gets six to Growin eight hours of and tom g produce such as bell pPhoto Contributed ato e sun. Sun-deprived dirty, but th es requires getting youppers, eggplants r hands a e reward is little worth the plants won’t bear vest time arriv effort whe es. n haras much fruit and are more vulnerable to insects and stress.

Step 3: Suitable soil — Success starts than chemical based options. with the soil. Most vegetables do well in Step 5: Water well — Most vegetables moist, well-drained soil that’s rich in organ- aren’t drought tolerant, so you’ll need to waic matter like compost or peat moss. Adding ter them regularly. The closer your garden is organic material loosens stiff soil, helps re- to a water source, the easier it will be to keep tain moisture and nourishes important soil plants hydrated. One inch of water weekly is organisms. adequate for most vegetables.

Step 4: Feed your food — All edible Step 6: Pest patrol — Let natural predaplants remove some nutrients from the soil, tors fight your battles, hand-pick pests or disand can quickly exhaust soil without the lodge them with a jet of water. If you spray, help of a fertilizer. Since one of the reasons do it late in the day when beneficial insects for growing your own vegetables is to control are less active. exactly what your family consumes, be sure You can find plenty of resources to help to use all-natural, safe products like Bonnie guide you through the planting process, Plant Food, which is derived from oilseed ex- from websites like www.bonnieplants.com to tract such as soybean seed extract. Research the University of Tennessee’s Agricultural Exshows plants are healthier and more vigor- tension Service. Read up, watch videos, take ous using organically based foods, rather a class and get your hands dirty.

Outdoor Life | Page 32

Technology n Continued from 24

his favorite device, a remote-controlled trolling motor, is a useful tool for both the disabled and the elderly.

“It’s made for the people who would not be able to otherwise go out and hand-troll,” Elswick said. “You can run it by foot or by remote.

No more coming back every day feeling like your leg was going to fall off.”

Elswick controls the motor, a Minn Kota v2,

from a remote worn on a lanyard around his neck.

Despite the advances in fishing technologies, Elswick said that the most important thing about fishing was the act itself: going fishing.

“We all started out with nightcrawlers, a sinker, a bobber and casting off the banks,” Elswick said. “You don’t have to jump on this bandwagon. It’s all up to what you want to do.”

ELIZABETHTON MILITARY SURPLUS Photo by Brandon Hicks

Tommy Blevins and his daughter, Lisa, enjoy a day of fishing at Wilbur Lake.

According to TWRA Fisheries Manager Bart Carter, Wilbur Lake offers one of northeast Tennessee’s most diverse collections of game fish.

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have no shortage of game to catch.

“We stock several streams in areas there with brown and rainbow trout,” Carter said.

“Usually between the first of February and the first part of June, we’ll stock a lot of streams there that don’t have a lot of wild trout in them.”

Carter added that one of Carter County’s hidden gems may be the Doe River, which flows from Roan Mountain down through Elizabethton.

“We stock the Doe River up at the Roan Mountain State Park,” Carter said. “They have some good smallmouth bass streams, that carries in the lower end down through Elizabethton.”

For those who don’t mind a commute, the surrounding area can yield results as well. Johnson County, for example, has a number of sites that Carter said could prove fruitful.

“Beaver Dam and Laurel Creek would probably be a few of the more mentionable spots as far as wild trout,” Carter said.

“There are a lot of tributaries there, especially the Beaver Dam. That provides good trout opportunities.”

As far as some of northeast Tennessee’s

hidden gems, Carter said that perhaps the most abundant sources for low-traffic fishing may be located in Sullivan County.

“We have some less than well-known areas,” Carter said. “Below Boone Dam, there’s a short little tail water there that provides trout fishing. Fort Patrick Henry Dam in Kingsport provides a small tail for people to go trout fishing.”

Carter made special note of the waters near the South Holston Reservoir, which have been lauded by fishing enthusiasts across the country.

“South Holston Reservoir is well known for its smallmouth fish and walleye fish, and, of course, we’ve got the lake trout in there, too,” Carter said. “The South Holston tail waters are considered some of the best for trout fishing in the eastern United States. But the tail water below Wilbur Dam (in Carter County) is really good, as well.”

Wherever fishermen find themselves, Carter added that northeast Tennessee presents its own unique setting, and, often times, can provide rewarding results.

“The biggest plus is that trout fishing opportunities in the lakes, in a mountain setting, is more unique,” Carter said.

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Outdoor Life | Page 33

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COVERED COVERED BRIDGE BRIDGE CELEBRATION CELEBRATION

Event expands to four days of music and festivities

BY ROZELLA HARDIN OL STAFF rhardin@outdoor-life.net

The 47th annual Covered Bridge Celebration will expand to four days this year, and feature some new opportunities to meet the entertainers.

This year’s festival will run from Wednesday, June 19, through Saturday, June 22.

There will also be four nights of entertainment. Wednesday is Gospel Night, featuring Loren Harris, former lead singer of the Perrys. Thursday night is Bluegrass Night, featuring the Boxcars, the reigning IBMA instrumental group of the year. Friday night is Country Night, returning Australian country singer Jamie O’Neal.

With the Collegians no longer performing, the festival had to search for a different closing act this year. The new closer will be the 1980s tribute band, Breakfast Club. Naturally, Saturday night has been designated 1980s Night, and there will be a contest to decide who is dressed in the best ’80s style.

Another new feature this year will be a chance to meet and greet the lead groups at private parties at the Chamber. O’Neal will be at the Meet and Greet Friday, and the Breakfast Club will be there Saturday. Tickets to the Meet and Greets are $10 in advance and $15 the day of the event.

Stephanie McKinney, events and marketing coordinator for the Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce, said the traditional kick-off event for the Covered Bridge Celebration will

once again be the Taste of Carter County, which will be held on Tuesday, June 18, at Elizabethton High School.

Tickets for the event are $10. To purchase your tickets, call the United Way of Elizabethton at 5436975 or the Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce. This is a limited event, so ticketing purchase should be done early.

McKinney said many other popular events are back this year, including Kids Island rides and games for children, the arts and crafts, and food vendors.

Several events are scheduled for Saturday including airplane rides at the Elizabethton Municipal Airport, the 5K Run and 3K Walk, the E Street Yard Sale, and the always popular weekly Carter County Car Club Cruise In. The Food City free ice cream social will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday.

Storytellers will once again be featured. This year tale-spinners will be entertaining listeners with “Tales of the Bridge” from inside the historic Covered Bridge.

The Mr. and Miss Hillbilly Contest for children will be sponsored by this year by Walgreens.

Photo by Little Mr. a Applications are available at the Chamber.

Danny Dav nd Miss Hil is lb te illy is a pop st for kids For more information on this year’s Covered ular conheld during C th e e Covered lebration in Bridge Celebration, visit www.elizabethtonBridge Elizabethto n . chamber.com or call (423) 547-3850.

DANCING DANCING IN IN THE THE STREETS STREETS

Blue Plum Festival expects record crowds

A crowd of more than 80,000 people is expected for what’s become one of the South’s largest free outdoor music and arts festivals. The Blue Plum Festival has announced an exciting lineup of diverse acts for this year’s event, to be held Friday-Sunday, June 7-9, in downtown Johnson City.

Dozens of bands will play throughout the weekend on three different stages. The Main Stage line-up includes Celtic sensation Scythian; rock-blues band Scratch River Telegraph Company will be among the acts on the local stage; and on the Jazz Stage, performers like the Jacob Tipton Trio will delight crowds.

Multiple genres of music will be featured throughout the weekend event that also includes food and craft vendors in the blocked-off streets of downtown.

“This event has really grown into a destination for many in the southeast,” says Brenda

Whitson, Executive Director of the Johnson City Convention and Visitors Bureau. “The festival wouldn’t be possible without dozens of community sponsors, and we’d like to thank them for their continued support.”

Other activities include the third annual Urban Art Throw-down featuring the best aerosol graffiti artists in the southeastern region laying down their images on suspended 6’ x 8’ canvases. There’s also a 5k Blue Plum fast walk and run, the Johnson City Omnium bike race, a roller derby and corn hole tournament. And for the kids, there’s a safe place just for them that includes fun activities including the popular Water Wars.

The name, Blue Plum Festival, is in honor of the 1800s rural post office serving an area in East Tennessee that would become known as Johnson City. This is the 14th year for the festival.

For more information, go to www.blueplum.org.

Outdoor Life | Page 34

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