McMinn Life Spring 2022 by Bingham Group

SPRING 2022

Seeds On The Farm: A Local Author’s

EASTER DEVOTIONAL

Life

Ingles Table SPRING RECIPES

Gladiolus

The National Garden Bureau Selects The Gladiolus To Showcase In 2022

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MONROE LIFE 25 McMINN LIFE 43

JOIN THE MOVEMENT WE CAN’T FIX THE LITTER PROBLEM OVERNIGHT, BUT WE SHOULD ALL DO OUR PART TO HELP STOP LITTERING.

DID YOU KNOW? AT ANY GIVEN TIME IN THE STATE, THERE ARE 100 MILLION PIECES OF LITTER ON TENNESSEE’S ROADWAYS. Keep McMinn Beautiful - Do your part to help pick it up!

KEEP McMINN BEAUTIFUL 6 E. Madison Avenue • Athens, TN 37303 SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

MASTER GARDENER CRAPE MURDER & SOOTY MOLD

18 & 20

GLADIOLUS

Contents features

LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY LIFE CENTER

Ingles Table Recipes

40 Bruce McCamish Opens Gallery In The Sunsphere

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

40th Anniversary Of The 1982 World’s Fair

RON

LOWERY’S

MAGIC

CAR P E T

departments 6 From The Publisher 16 Message From The Athens City Manager 17 East Tennessee Foundation Names New Leaders 32 East Tennessee Vein Clinic

8 Sarah Philpott Mom, Farmer’s Wife, Christian Writer, Dreamer, Schemer

Straightway Ministry

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

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PUBLICATIONS: REACHING MORE HOMEOWNERS THAN ANY PUBLISHER IN ET

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“THEN THE AND “CHR ADOPTION

From thePublisher We hope you’re having a wonderful spring! In this issue, we bring you seven delicious recipes from Ingles—like pineapple pulled pork tacos and deep fried chocolate Easter eggs. Expert gardener Gayle Fisher offers tips for crape myrtles and gladioli, and read her advice on how to protect your plants from sooty mold. Sharon Davis explains how she’s transforming a former drug den into a community life center called The Lighthouse—turning a place of darkness into a place of light. We also share the amazing story of my high school classmate, Bobby Hampton and Straightway Ministry.

REGIONAL MEDIA EXPERIENCE • MONROE LIFE BALLOON FESTIVAL

25 YEARS OF IN-HOUSE TELEVISION PRODUCTION: DOCUMENTARIES: KIPPY

We also feature the breathtaking photography of Ron Lowery, who flew a homemade plane along Lewis & Clark’s route across the country. We also show some of his wonderful pictures of Tennessee. Everyone knows spring is a wonderful time of the year for many reasons—but the most important reason is that we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In this issue, we share a beautiful devotional on the resurrection from very talented local author Sarah Philpott. We hope you enjoy the magazine! Whether an agency project or a magazine story we thank you for letting us love what we do!

TOURISM EXPERIENCE: ANAKEESTA • RIPLEY’S • ANDERSON COUNTY

The Bingham Group Multi Media Campaign #2 Domestic Violence Campaign TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave, Wm. R. Snodgrass TN Tower, 25th Floor, Nashville, TN 37243 Contract Number: 34901-00191 Contract Term: April 3, 2014 – April 2, 2019 Procuring state agency: Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Megan Buell 615-251-8587 Megan.Buell@tn.gov The Bingham Group has a five-year contract with the State of Tennessee to create a domestic violence awareness campaign to include radio, television, visual print media, social media and other forms of non-traditional media.

TWENTY FIVE STATE CONTRACTS: ANTI-METH • DOMESTIC VIOLENCE • DON’T

Lisa Atkins-Bingham

Hard to watch, isn’t it? 6

McMINNLIFE SPRING 2022

Make The Call, 1-800-356-6767 If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, make the call. www.pcat.org/programs/domestic-violence-helpline

This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, Department of Finance and Administration, Office of Criminal Justice Programs a supported by Award #_2015-MU-BX-0042 awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, USDOJ.

R HOLIDAY / WINTE

2022

HOLIDAY / WINTER 2022

EVENTS FUN LOCAL FAMILY FOR YOUR

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“THEN or AND “CTHERE W ies ERE TH HRIST ADOPT ION STMAS IS AN REE” ORY”

Ingles Table

GREAT RECIPES TO TRY

Two Heartwarming Adoption Stories

le Ingles Tab ES TO TRY GREAT RECIP

arming Two Heartw ries AdoptionRESto WERE THREE”

“THEN THERE WERE THREE” AND “CHRISTMAS IS AN ADOPTION STORY”

“THEN THE AS IS AN AND “CHRISTM RY” ADOPTION STO

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GREAT RECIPES TO

TRY

President Lisa Atkins Bingham

DI S PL A Y GR A PHI CS • E VE N T S • T RA DES HOWS • WEB S ITES

BROWN • THE SEAHAWKS • GATLINBURG STRONG • SOCIAL MEDIA

Graphic Designers Lisa Bingham Jason Bowers Cris Littleton Laura Woodson Contributing Writers Dr. Robert Allen Blaina Best Gayle Fisher Matt Hollingsworth Sarah Philpott Contributing Photographers Ron Lowery Bruce McCamish Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com

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SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

Seeds on the Farm

a blanket of dirt. Deep in the ground. Away from the sunshine. Nestled in the darkness. This excerpt is from The Growing Season: A Year of Down-on-the-Farm Devotions by Sarah Philpott. Sarah resides on a farm that is set in McMinn and Monroe counties. You can find her book at all major retailers, including Amazon.

JOHN 3:16 God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. Seeds. They’re smooth and come in all different shapes and sizes. We grasp a packet of them, carefully chosen by the variety, and have a mindset of glorious expectation. MANIFOLD INCREASE. In your imagination, take a seed packet, pour the contents into the palm of your hand, and gaze at the handful of husks. Run your fingers across the hulls. These seeds are worthy—not necessarily for their present state (although many of us do enjoy eating sunflower and pumpkin seeds), but for the future. These individual seed casings hold life inside them. They are capsules of life just waiting to be placed into the soil, where they will sit for a bit of time and then grow into a new form.

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

A CREATION ANEW. Remember that field I love to gaze at while sitting at my farmhouse table? Right now, seeds are going into it. The temperature is just right—not too cold. The ground is just right—not too wet, and not too hard. The weather has been monitored, and conditions have been judged to be just right. The farmer knows the sun is gifting glorious spring rays to the land for just enough hours each day to warm the soil, so that come June we will have a crop of sweet corn. One of the farm guys is out on that old red Massey Ferguson, pulling a Ford two-row mechanical corn planter, planting seeds right into the rows of tilled soil. DROP. DROP. DROP. The seeds drop into the earth, one at a time. The blade on the corn planter opens the ground, creating a notch just big enough for a solitary seed to be buried into the ground, and the drive wheel covers the seed with

INTO THE DARK. BUT SOON INTO THE LIGHT. The seed will be altered from its original form. Leaving behind its old self in the ground. Emerging afresh. The life within each seed spends much time just waiting, patiently, for soil with the right temperature and the right level of moisture to awaken it from its slumber. The seed begins to swell as it absorbs the moisture surrounding the casing. Then, what is inside that casing begins the process of growth. The process of germination. We learned about it in school, right? The life form inside that casing divides. The roots burrow deep into the soil and the sprout rises, rises, rises until it bursts through the soil. That tiny sprout will eventually become a stalk of corn— housing multiple ears. Ready to be eaten. The solitary multiplied. Perfectly amazing, right? How the seed goes into the dark ground, where the old self is left behind—ceasing to be—so new life can rise.

RISE TO BEAR FRUIT. RISE TO PROSPER. Are you feeling a parallel yet? To our spiritual selves. And to the very foundation of our Christianity: the crucifixion, the burial, the rising. As Easter draws near, the time when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, let’s reflect on the miraculous act God ordained—and the miraculous sacrifice Jesus made so each and every one of us can have new life. If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come (2 Corinthians 5:17). Christ’s death and resurrection took place at a time ordained by God. The time was just right according to our Maker. And we celebrate His death and resurrection in the spring, the time of year when we reflect on the death of the old so the new can thrive. It all does seem a bit strange and counterintuitive—death and then life? Even in farm talk it sounds mystical. Imagine an unknowing person watching the farmer plant seeds into the darkness of the ground. It would seem to be a hopeless situation to an observer unlearned in scientific ways. Why would something be buried in order to be born again? Why would we anticipate life from death? And yet...God. The story of Easter. The ultimate death-to-life story. Following the crucifixion of Jesus, Joseph of Arimathea took the bloodstained body— now seemingly just the hull of a man—and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. He placed the body of Jesus into the darkness of a tomb. A tomb cut into the side of a rock, with a boulder covering the entrance (see Matthew 27:57-60).

JESUS LAID TO REST IN TOTAL DARKNESS. Final. Story over. It seemed Jesus would stay in that darkness for eternity. But on the third day, early in the morning, Mary Magdalene, along with others, went to the tomb where Jesus was buried. Expecting nothing more than death—but finding life. An angel of the Lord appeared and said, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay” (Matthew 28:5-6). From the darkness He arose, bringing to us the most beautiful, bountiful blessing of all—eternal life. He died so our sins could be forgiven. And He rose so life could continue.

The Loved Baby book is all about women feeling less alone after miscarriage, stillbirth, and ectopic pregnancy loss. It is filled with Christ-centered compassion + real talk. Sarah experienced two miscarriages & was completely unprepared for the physical and emotional turmoil. She created this book as a place for women like us to mourn and cherish the lovely little life that took root in our wombs, but now blooms in heaven. Others care for physical needs, but Loved Baby is to cradle the needs of our souls.

Farm gal, when we surrender ourselves to Christ, our God delights us with the expectation of what our growth can do to magnify His kingdom. On our farm, when those seeds are dropped into the soil, we have expectations for growth. For increase. For harvest. And our seeds do, most often, bring forth life. But it is the mighty and true farmer—God—who arranged for His Son, Jesus, to be buried so that the most glorious increase of all could emerge: everlasting life. FOR US. FOR OUR FUTURE GENERATIONS. MANIFOLD INCREASE. Thank You, Father, for so loving the world that You gave us Your only Son—so that all of us who believe will not perish but have everlasting life with You. I pray that as I scoop up seeds this spring and place them into the earth, I will be reminded of the holiness and magnificence symbolized in this simple, yet groundbreaking act. And may I be reminded each day that I must die to self in order to live in Christ. Amen.

Christian women who have known the unfathomable pain of pregnancy loss at any stage need this devotional. The writer Sarah Philpott is with you on your journey, and through her transparency regarding her own loss, recovery, and faith walk, she offers guidance on healing for mothers post-loss. —Autumn L. Carusillo, PHD, LCSW

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

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

INGLES….EXPECT MORE FROM YOUR LOCAL STORE. 10

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

RAVISHING RADISH SALAD Abby J

Shopping List 24 radishes, cut into quarters 6 green onions, sliced 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1/2 cup fennel, sliced thin 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

Instructions Place radishes in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt and pepper, toss to coat.

6 fresh basil leaves, chopped 2 tbsp. honey 1 tsp. pepper 1 tsp. salt 2 tbsp. champagne vinegar 1/4 cup olive oil 3/4 cup walnut pieces, toasted

Add onions, fennel, basil, and dill. In a small bowl, whisk oil, vinegar, honey, and garlic. Pour over salad, toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Sprinkle with walnuts just before serving.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/spring-radish-salad

SPRING 2022 McMINN LIFE

PINEAPPLE PULLED PORK TACOS Smokin’ Joe Lasher

For those of you “on the go”, here’s a delicious and impressive recipe for your next “Taco Tuesday”, or any night of the week. Enjoy! Instructions

Serves: 8 people Shopping List PULLED PORK TACOS 2 1/2 lb. pork tenderloin 1 (28 oz.) can pineapple chunks with juice 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tbsp. apricot preserves 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1/2 tsp. pepper 10 6” corn tortillas 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 8 oz. goat cheese 1/2 cup green onions, chopped 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, diced

Place pork tenderloin in large crockpot Combine pineapple juice from can, soy sauce, preserves, garlic powder and pepper in a mixing bowl and mix thoroughly. Pour over the pork tenderloin and add all but ¾ cup pineapple chunks. Set crockpot on low and let cook for 6-7 hours. Pork must reach an internal temp of 150ºF, but for this recipe, I like to let go well past for tenderness. During the last 30 minutes, shred pork and let cook in juices the remaining time. Heat corn tortillas prior to serving. Add shredded pork to tortillas then spoon pineapple BBQ sauce over the pork.

Shopping List PINEAPPLE BBQ SAUCE 3/4 cup tomato sauce 3/4 cup reserved pineapple chunks 3 tbsp. apricot preserves 3 tbsp. brown sugar 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar 2 tbsp. lime juice Instructions Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Pour into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until sauce thickens.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/pineapple-pulled-pork-tacos

12 McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

DEREK’S DECADENT SMORES Chef Derek St. Romain This is a great recipe that provides an easy way to make intentional memories with family and friends! Everyone will love to get involved, and there is no wrong way to create your own delicious treat!

Shopping List

DEEP FRIED CHOCOLATE EASTER EGGS Chef Mark Keady Use a deep fryer if you have one. Do not use an air fryer. Make sure that the egg is completely coated before frying to avoid a meltoff in the fryer. The children won’t mind you raiding their Easter baskets if you turn their chocolate into these beauties! It’s fair food - at Easter! Shopping List

Whisk together the baking powder, 1 cup of flour and salt in a medium bowl. Put the remaining 1 cup of flour in a small bowl. 3. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and whisk until combined. Cover and set aside for 15 minutes while the oil heats.

1. Be sure to freeze the eggs for at least two hours or overnight before starting this recipe!

4. Attach a deep fat fry thermometer to a large heavy-bottomed pot (see cook’s note). Add the 6 cups of oil and heat to 375°F over medium-high heat. Using two forks (or your hands) dredge an egg in the flour, then coat in the batter, dredge in the flour again and then coat in the batter. (This double batter creates a thicker coating to keep the egg from leaking when fried.) Gently put it into the oil, turn it almost immediately with a slotted spoon, so that it does not stick to the bottom. Repeat with remaining eggs. Cook, turning frequently until the crust is a light golden, about 2 minutes. Remove the eggs to a paper towel-lined plate, let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Whisk together the milk, egg and 1 tbsp. oil in a small bowl or measuring cup.

5. Top with sifted powdered sugar, chocolate syrup or syrup of choice.

8 foil wrapped chocolate easter eggs (use any flavor you like) 6 cups canola oil and 1 tbsp. 2 cups all purpose flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1 cup of milk 1 egg pinch of kosher salt 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for garnish chocolate syrup, for garnish Instructions

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/deep-fried-chocolate-easter-eggs

1 bag marshmallows 6 bars milk chocolate 1 box Honey Maid Graham Crackers 1 package premade Ingles brownies Toppings sea salt caramel sauce chocolate sauce butterscotch sauce mini chocolate chips fresh berries mint leaves Instructions Preheat oven 350°F. Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil for an easy clean up. Break each honey graham in half and place on sheet, you can also use a large cookie to use as the base. Add a brownie and 1/3 a bar of chocolate to each graham cracker, and top with a marshmallow. Cook in oven for 3-5 minutes or until marshmallow is brown on top. Top each S’more with your choice of decadent toppings and serve immediately. Notes: Feel free to mix the chocolate bars up with sea salt chocolate, mint chocolate, or even raspberry chocolate for a fun twist. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ derek-s-decadent-s-mores

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

GLAZED SMOKED SALMON BAGEL BITES Clark and Suzy Neal with Unicoi Preserves

Instructions:

Shopping List 1 bag everything bagel crisps 2 cups baby arugula, plus additional for garnish 4 oz. log plain goat cheese 4 oz. smoke-roasted wild sockeye salmon Zest of 1 Meyer lemon, for garnish 2 tablespoons Unicoi Preserves Apple Cider Pepper Spread 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice Zest of 1 Meyer lemon 2 tablespoons Laura Lynn olive oil 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

Place apple cider pepper spread in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave 10 seconds to liquefy. Remove skin from salmon, then use a basting brush to glaze apple cider pepper spread over salmon. Cut into bite-size pieces. Make the dressing by whisking all dressing ingredients together in a small bowl. Toss in arugula, set aside. Top bagel crisp with a few leaves of dressed arugula, a 1/4 inch slice of goat cheese, and a piece of salmon. Garnish with a small pinch of Meyer lemon zest and serve on a platter garnished with reserved arugula.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/glazed-smoked-salmon-bagel-bites

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

SWEET MEMORIE’S HOMEMADE SOFT PRETZELS Author: Sweet Memories

Shopping List 1 pound (1 loaf) white frozen dough 1 tbsp vegetable oil, (for bowl) 2/3 cup baking soda 2 Eggs, beaten with 1 tbsp water Coarse Salt Instructions

SUZY’S FUZZY GREYHOUND COCKTAIL Author: Clark and Suzy Neal with Unicoi Preserves

Shopping List 2 oz. ruby red grapefruit vodka 2 oz. grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed 1 oz. simple syrup 1 tbsp. aquafaba 2 ice cubes 2 grates of grapefruit zest Instructions 1. Place vodka, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, aquafaba and ice cubes into a cocktail shaker, secure lid firmly. 2. Shake 1 minute. 3. Strain drink into a cocktail coupe 4. Finish with a few grates of grapefruit zest

Notes: To make simple syrup, mix 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 cup water. Bring to a boil to dissolve sugar. Cool and refrigerate in a jar. What the heck is aquafaba?! It’s the brine drained from a can of chickpeas that’s virtually flavorless. Aquafaba is vegan and can replace egg whites in cocktails to give them froth and a nice mouth feel. I created this cocktail in memory of all the rescued greyhounds Clark and I adopted over the years. As greyhounds age, their sleek coat gets thicker and fuzzier. Cheers to you, Fox!

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/suzys-fuzzy-greyhound-cocktail

Defrost the bread dough by placing it in a large bowl that has been wiped down with oil. Cover with plastic wrap and leave in a warm place to rise for about 2 hours. When dough has risen, knead into a ball, and cover again while you preheat the oven to 450°F. Cut dough into 8 pieces and roll them out into thin ropes, twisting the two ends to form a pretzel shape. Add baking soda to a large pot of water and bring to a rolling boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds per side. Transfer pretzels to a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until golden brown. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/sweetmemories-s-homemade-soft-pretzels

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

A Letter From City Manager

C. SETH SUMNER

Howdy Friends! A fewand years ago,a Istep charged Recently, I hit pause took

Team Athens adoptedthe“Our Why” my staff with remarkable back from thecelebrating intense workday that astories few years you of their service to our community, consumes myago. life —Ifand myhave family visited City Hall, you have seen this to identify highlight incredible and friends’and lives, too. I the devoted much statement hung with care on thehere difference that Team Athens is making time during that period to reflection, walls. It is there as a reminder to in our hometown. From that challenge, recollection, and prayer. citizens and team members alike to an info-graphic was developed and is now reinforce the reasons why we work annually ouraffirmation fellow citizens. Idelivered prayed for clarityto and for so hard, together, to fight for the I amcurrent pleasedpath. to share the latestwho Annual my Individuals are sacred ideals Info-graphic of our community. Year-In-Review for the Fiscal

called to Servant Leadership often bear Year ending June 30,burdens. 2020 withThe youneeds, on Atlas proportioned Our Why states: “We believe in the City of and Athens’ Facebook page (www. demands, stressors of a community improving facebook.com/CityofAthensTN). Within can feel likethe the human weight ofcondition. the world and We afford all citizens and guests a the pages of the review you will see the always come first and, in time, this takes higher of hard life by providing the the work mywho staffbear has aculmination toll onquality the of wonderful people infrastructure and services that lead to accomplished the load day inthis andpast dayyear out.and the success astories safer,that happier, healthier,can and more our community share economically vibrant environment last summer. Itogether recalledsince a speaker I heard several years where people can succeed.” ago, whose name I cannot recall. I hope This past January, volunteered Our McMinn County she’ll forgive that andIEconomic the poor para-as an overnight caretaker athas our Development Authority scored our phrase, because I was moved by her

community’s warming center at second Tax-Increment Project message to “be well, doFinanced good.” As a true Keith Memorial United Methodist in three years with the up-and-coming Vol, I have worked always to exemplify Church. We served 10 people, Athens Marketplace. first TIF the Volunteer spirit, The but lately I’veproject been although not all stayed overnight. three years agofrom was the installment disconnected people thatofI the One person came in ready to seek new Food downtown Athens. serve - I’veCity beeninin board rooms andThe on help to overcome addiction. We Athenscalls, Marketplace willitbe Zoom and there hasa multi-venue been so fed everyone, provided showers, retail for development encompassing over hard me to see the good that comes clothing, toiletries, and a warm safe 100,000 square feet of new retail space from my work and volunteerism – place until dawn broke again. We and anticipating apparel shops,I actually cosmetics, separated from those whom believe in improving the discount retail, bath & beauty, and serve. human condition. restaurants. I reflected on a program from my In the community, I’ve heard Early in in theClifton, fiscal year, paid a church FeedweHiswere Sheep. many talk about the issues around specialper visitweek by Tennessee Once we wouldGovernor cook andBill boxLee homelessness – withwhat genuine care as we broke ground willinbecome meals, deliver them on to people need, for those affected – yet the callwith for the state for higher and makemodel personal contacteducation with those volunteers, to give just one night, theserved. completion the McMinn County we It wasoftruly an uplifting and or a few hours Center. has often Higher Education This gone center humbling experience. unanswered. The few who give will house TCAT-Athens, Cleveland State constantly need a rest themselves. Community College, of This reflection is whattheledUniversity me to think Tennessee’s Agricultural Extension about Table Graces, a local feedingServices, Homelessness is aallnoticeable andThis and AdultinEducation under one roof. program Athens. So, I just showed growing issueworkforce for citiesdevelopment worldwide. center will last drive up on the Wednesday in October to Last fall, I visited Portland, Oregon in collaboration witha hand. local industries and is ask if they needed Of course, where tents abound on sidewalks well underway in construction for the entire they did and I got put straight to work. all over the downtown area. One Athens willminutes become to thefind center Itregion. only took a few thefor resident noted that the growth has workforce development inofthe rhythm and machination thesoutheast process only occurred in the last 5-6 years. Tennessee and just likecorridor. that – I was lost in service. Cities large and small are seeing Once the assembly line slowed, I took an inAthens homelessness, and Theincrease Main Street that time to step outside, toprogram, place food boxes approaches to help vary widely. merged withtothe Business in vehicles, seeDowntown those we were serving. There are the in ourhas community Association yearnoted prior, made Afterwards, itthose was that we hadgreat a who have given tremendous strides in the revitalization of our historic record day: 240 meals served. Not the amounts of their timedowntown, commercial core kind of record wedistrict, hope toand see. effort to help those in need. From the heart of our community. Alongthe with bottom of my heart, I am humbled the development of an Historic Walking The best day would be when zero food by their and thankful Tour, Main Street Athens with boxes are contributions needed by ourpartnered neighbors. that they do their best to fill a the Southeast Tennessee Until then, there are manyDevelopment of us who current void in service to ourfacade District complete grant funded can helptoour friends in need. This neighbors need. improvements for downtown businesses. experience letinme focus on monotonous

www.CityofAthensTN.com www.CityofAthensTN.com

As City Manager, it was important Main Street Athens also embarked physical labor all the while makingona adirect, that I served in our warming visioning process developingand newits visible impact on and our iscommunity center to study this issue, those plans to reinvigorate downtown. underserved members.

affected, and how our community and partners can better serve On to city finances, Fiscaland Yearhumbling 2020 marked There it was – uplifting this portion of our population. As years of Excellent Financial Reporting, –28that feeling of doing good and being the weather has turned warmer, an award presented by the well. It is well with my soul.Government I can’t help but to look back and Finance Officers Association heralding think of that night I gave, away ourprayer exemplary management of taxpayer My for you this Holiday season is from the warmth and safety of my funds our financial that if and you the findtransparency yourself likeofI did, mired own bed, to provide to those in stewardship of the public’s trust. This or blasé in the workaday life we tendmakes to greater need.

Athens oneif of theare best fiscally managed lead — or you getting caught up cities in the entireyour United States.—Athens in things beyond control pause.is Homelessness been in a very stable andhas sound fiscallisted position, as a priority for our citizens maintaining among taxand rates in Pause and find a waythetolowest do good. community, and while we have Tennessee for our service level. many working toward filling the There are countless volunteer opportunities gap, needs still exist.story Many express Finally, another success thatwith has all been in our giving community. Even the care, but few give. Your local more than years in the making, the growth andfifteen advancement we’ve experienced government doesn’tthe have theBoard Athens Cityfew Council in the past years,and we stillAthens have many answer, but we want to an beagreement the of Education to reach neighbors in worked great need. strongest possible partner for our on approaching the needs of our school community’s solution. is, of system and the of ourThis children As we stroll intofuture the holiday season, may course, one of many issues facing regarding our school The you remember to be buildings. kind, to give ifcitizens you our community and we need of Athens voiced their desire and willingness can, and to find some way to do good; it many more citizens leading to pay for the be consolidation of our the four will help you well. see. change they want to elementary schools by approving the referendum to raise the local option sales Genuinely, It takes community toGroundbreaking tackle tax by 0.75% last summer. community issues. Will answer C. Seth Sumner on the new school building isyou set for the call to make our community a December 21, 2020. safer, happier, healthier, and more economically environment All in all, we havevibrant had a tremendous year where ALL people can succeed? here at the City of Athens and we look

forward to another year of progress in the Friendly City. May God bless you and may God bless the City of Athens! Genuinely, C. Seth Sumner City Manager

THE EAST TENNESSEE FOUNDATION Names New Leaders

Jeanette Kelleher, Executive Vice President + Secretary

Morgan Vance, Pat Summitt Foundation, Director of Advancement

Sharon Moore, Director of Advancement

Jeanette Kelleher was recently named as East Tennessee Foundation’s (ETF) Executive Vice President and is now responsible for ETF’s overall operations and the coordination of the program, finance, operations, advancement, fundholder services, and communications teams into a strong functional framework. She will also serve as Secretary of the Board of Directors.

Morgan joins the Pat Summitt Foundation after serving as a development director for the University of Tennessee Athletic Department and the Tennessee Fund where she was responsible for soliciting major gifts for the annual fund and capital projects. Prior to her time in athletics, Morgan served as the associate director of development for corporate relations at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. In that role, she was responsible for maintaining relationships with Children’s Miracle Network partners and executing fundraising campaigns while also establishing new relationships with local corporations and family foundations. She did similar work at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital prior to her time in Baltimore.

Sharon has lived in East Tennessee for more than half of her life and has served in the nonprofit sector for the entirety of her career. She joins East Tennessee Foundation following 12 years leading development efforts at Zoo Knoxville including spearheading the Dream Wilder capital campaign which raised $37 million and culminated in the two largest projects in the zoo’s history - Boyd Family Asian Trek and Clayton Family ARC Campus. In a volunteer capacity, Sharon currently serves as a board member and campaign strategist for Wesley House Community Center. She was named 2021 Outstanding Fundraising Professional of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Great Smoky Mountains Chapter and is a graduate of the Leadership Knoxville Class of 2021. Sharon serves donors, fundholders, and their professional advisors to assist them in fulfilling their philanthropic dreams. She can be reached at smoore@etf.org or 865-524-1223.

Jeanette joined ETF in 2004 to administer its Affordable Housing Trust Fund and Community Investment Fund. During her 17 years, she has served in various roles and is knowledgeable of all areas of ETF’s work. She has worked closely with the previous Executive Vice President + Secretary, Carolyn Schwenn, who is transitioning to a newly created role of Special Advisor. Jeanette currently serves on the advisory board for the City of Knoxville’s new Affordable Housing Fund and previously was the deputy director of the City of Knoxville’s community development department. Before relocating to Knoxville, she served as a research economist in Boston and New York. She focused on industrial analysis at the Transportation Systems Center in Cambridge and domestic financial markets at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Jeanette earned an A.B. in economics from Harvard University and a Master’s in economics from Columbia University.

Morgan was born and raised in East Tennessee and is a proud descendent of the Sparks family of Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains. She holds a master’s degree in business administration from UT Martin and a bachelor’s in public relations from UT Knoxville. She lives in Lenoir City with her husband Jason and their five children. Morgan is available to assist donors who wish to support Coach Pat Summitt’s goal of beating Alzheimer’s disease. She can be reached at mvance@patsummitt.org.

520 W. SUMMIT HILL DRIVE, SUITE 1101 KNOXVILLE, TN 37902 easttennesseefoundation.org

CELEBRATING 30+ YEARS OF THOUGHTFUL GIVING FOR STRONGER COMMUNITIES AND BETTER LIVES CONFIRMED IN COMPLIANCE WITH NATIONAL STANDARDS FOR U.S. COMMUNITY FOUNDATIONS.

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

PROTECT YOUR CRAPE MYRTLE FROM

“Crape Murder”

Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is one of the most useful flowering shrubs/trees grown in Tennessee. It provides abundant summer color with a minimum of mainentance. Crape myrtle is ideally suited for community plantings since unlike the Bradford pear it is long-lived, withstands droughts after becoming established and is relatively free of disease and insects.

They need to be planted in full sun for abundant flowering and strong growth. Water your new myrtles thoroughly at planting time and once a week, in the absence of rainfall, for the first two months after planting. Watering also enhances flower production during dry periods. Crape myrtles will also tolerate adverse soil conditions, but as with most plants you’ll have better success if you have fertile rich soil. Mulching around the myrtle will prevent weed growth and help to retain moisture. Colors range from red and pink to lavender and white. Sizes vary from the dwarf (3 to 5 feet) mid-size (5 to 10 feet) standard (10 to 20 feet) and tree (20 feet or more). This is an excellent plant for gardeners that want a low-maintenance landscape. The sculptural form of the myrtle can be appreciated in the winter as well as its handsome bark. Because the bloom colors are so vivid it is a good idea to choose one color in a cluster and use it exclusively. This plant flowers on new stems of the season so you can prune plants any time during the late winter or early spring before growth begins without loss of flower buds.

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Avoid pruning in early fall before the first frost, because pruning forces new growth and keeps the plant from going dormant. Pruning however is not essential for flowering. Some of the most spectacular floral displays can be seen on old, unpruned trees along the roadside. If you want a bush shape you need to prune the stems back to about 6 inches above the ground in February each year. Severe pruning will not kill or injure a healthy plant. My friend, Sally, planted four white Crape Myrtles. They are at the entrance of her driveway. The trees were all planted at the same time. The ones on the right are about 10 feet tall with a lively spray of blooms. The ones on the left have been constantly pruned to look like a bush with no blooms at all. Landscapers call this butchering of crape myrtles as “crape murder,” whacking the plant without any consideration of shape, flower or form. The natural grace of the tree has been spoiled. Her reasoning for pruning so severely was “they blocked her view when pulling into traffic.” She should have chosen a low growing plant. It makes me sad that we don’t have landscape police to prevent the ‘Crape Murder’ problem. I would be in favor of supporting a field officer except when they police my yard, I would end up in barberry prison. By Gayle Fisher MASTERGARDNER

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

By Gayle Fisher MASTER GARDNER

NEW KNOX GALLERY GALLERY Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts launches a new gallery in downtown Knoxville. The Arrowmont Gallery is the first permanent off-campus exhibition space for the School.

CRAPE MYRTLE

SOOTY MOLD Yuck, what is this nasty black slime on my plant? Sorry, lady you’re dealing with Sooty Mold, which is caused by pest infestations. Small sucking insects with piercing mouths, including aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and scale. The insects secrete a sweet, sticky substance called honeydew, which coats the leaves and stems, or branches. The honeydew coating attracts fungal spores, which adhere to the honeydew left by the insects. Once a few sooty mold fungal spores are present, the fungus quickly spreads and affects the whole plant, making it appear as if it is covered in grime and soot. Now that you know what it is, how do you get rid of it? Get started early this spring. If you had it last year, it will return. Not only is it ugly, the dark color and the thickness of the fungal growth blocks photosynthesis, which keeps the chlorophyll from functioning properly. This can eventually cause the leaves to wither and die. Though the leaves of affected plants are sometimes casualties of sooty mold fungus, the plants, shrubs, and trees live on long after the fungal growth has come and gone. Soot can be removed, leaves can be regrown, and plants that have

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

been the victims of major infestations can make miraculous recoveries with proper treatment. Spray the plant with neem oil, which disrupts the hormones of the insects preventing them from molting and growing through their various stages. It also disrupts their ability to lay eggs, therefore reproducing. I have also read that it messes with their digestion, so they are sucking less on your plants. Also, you can prune the most affected leaves and branches, but do not put them into compost pile. This is a fungus so a systemic fungicide, like Bonide, can be applied to the base of the plant. If you have roses, you are probably already using this product. Spread it on the ground under the plant, so that the roots can take the fungicide throughout the plant. My daughter had this problem and since the plant was small and close to her house she used a hose to wet the plant, then hand washed each leaf with a rag and a bucket of warm water and Dawn dish detergent. (She had seen the commercials where it was used to wash animals caught in oil spills.) She said she had to wash both sides of the leaf. It was harder than expected but she had success.

INAUGURAL EXHIBITION ARTISTS Jonathan Adams Jennifer Allen Erin Anfinson Adam Atkinson Tina Curry Chandra DeBuse Bill Griffith Dani Guillen Chris Hoehle Everett Hoffman Jeana Eve Klein Maia Leppo Ashton Ludden John Polly Justin Rothshank Joshua Shorey Mary Welch Thompson Katherine Wagner Kimberly Winkle

110 South Gay Street Knoxville, Tennessee 37902 865-436-5860 arrowmont.org/arrowmont-gallery

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SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

Gladiolus

ach year, the National Garden Bureau selects plants to showcase. These plants are chosen because they are popular, easy-to-grow, widely adaptable, genetically diverse, and versatile. The 2022 year’s plant list includes the Gladiolus.

flower farmers, and home gardeners are finding new and creative ways to put these flowers front and center.

Generations of gardeners, from Maine to California, have planted these summerblooming bulbs into their gardens in spring and been delighted by the gorgeous flower spikes that appear just a few months later.

Named for the shape of their leaves, gladioli are from the Latin word “gladius,” meaning sword. Two of the common name are “sword lilies” or “Glads,” they are relatively easy to grow and ideal for summer cut flower arrangements. Gladioli are also easy to divide and replant, making them a perfect flower for sharing with fellow gardeners.

Buckets of long-stemmed Glads are a late-summer tradition, and they can be found at almost any county fair or farmer’s market. Gladioli are exotic. Most are native to Africa and other arid countries around the Mediterranean. Plant breeders didn’t begin working with gladioli until the late 1800s, but they have had great success. Today’s bulbs are far showier than those that grow in the wild and the color options are simply incredible. No wonder floral designers,

All varieties are well known for their height and showy summer blooms. With varieties ranging from 2 to 6 feet tall, all presenting neatly tiered blossoms. Color varieties of gladioli range from soft pastels to bold jewel tones in both solids and bi-colors, making the gladiolus a versatile addition to any design. I have three colors in my garden. One is a pink and white bi-color, a beautiful red and one a pure white. I love my red; it is sizzling. I used the white for my daughter’s wedding

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

in June. They made beautiful arrangement that held up under the hot sun. Glads prefer full sun, but will accept partial shade. These bulbs are tolerant of clay, loam, and sand, and thrive in any well-drained soil enhanced with a little mulch. Start planting in the middle of the spring season and continue to plant every two weeks until the middle of July for blooming flowers throughout the summer. I plant mine 6 inches deep and find that rarely do they need staking. Since they are bulbs they come with a first year food source stored inside. This allows you to plant anywhere the first year and they will bloom. If you want to treat them as annuals, they can be pulled up and discarded after blooming. If you need them to return they need sunshine and the blades cannot be cut down till fall after a frost.

By Gayle Fisher MASTERGARDNER

SPRING SPRING2022 2022 McMINN McMINNLIFE LIFE

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By Matt Hollingsworth

Straightway Ministry GOD TRANSFORMED BOB HAMPTON FROM A DRUG ADDICT INTO A LEADER WHO HAS HELPED CHANGE MANY LIVES FOR THE BETTER.

ob Hampton is a well-dressed, friendly man with graying hair and a soft voice. Speaking with a slight Southern accent, he welcomes me to the home. Looking at him, I would have never guessed that he had spent 35 years as a drug addict and had been to jail for armed robbery. I have just arrived at StraightWay Ministry, a two-story brick home where men go to recover from the devastation of drug addiction. Bob Hampton, smiling, greets me at the front. He and his wife, Lisa, live in the home, not as students, but as founders and owners.

Bob has been clean for over 11 years. Five years ago, in 2016, he founded StraightWay to help recovering addicts. He’s a man whose life has been completely turned around. He bids me through the front door, and we find a quiet spot where he can share his story.

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

As a teenager, Bob wasn’t someone who would fit the stereotype of a drug user. “Growing up, I loved sports… It’s what I lived for back in those days,” he tells me. “I’m from a good family. I was raised right, and I knew right from wrong.” Despite his upbringing, Bob was already using drugs by the time he was in high school. I ask him how he first fell into addiction, and he says, “I started out like most people did in the 70’s… experimenting with different things… trying new things out.” He got married and had his first son when he was only 17. This marriage, however, wouldn’t last long. In high school, he had only used drugs occasionally, but his addiction grew worse when he went to college. During this time, he got divorced, and he committed his first felony. Some fellow college students owed him money for drugs, so he kicked their door in and took what they owed him.

He had barely gone down the road when he was arrested by a SWAT team. Bob got lucky and was only given probation, but he couldn’t stay out of trouble. A few years later, he was arrested for armed robbery, and since he was still on probation, he was potentially facing 56 years in prison. Now in his early 20’s, Bob sat in his cell, the horrifying specter of lifelong imprisonment looming overhead. Not knowing what else to do, he decided to take his own life. But before he did so, he sat down to read a Bible that was in his cell. The book would change his life. Bob recalls, “I just kept reading, and then I would stop, and I would pray.” He remembered family members telling him not to put God to the test. Nevertheless, as he was reading, he prayed, “God, I really want to believe in you… If you would just show me that you were real, I would believe, and I would just follow you the rest of my life.” Later, as Bob slept, God gave him a vision of him and his brother driving in the mountains. They were surrounded by demons, but a shield around the car protected them. In the vision, Bob’s brother was frightened, but Bob just said, “Don’t worry about all this stuff. We’re of the Lord. They aren’t going to hurt us.” His brother responded, “Are you sure?”

That question was all it took. Bob’s faith wavered, and the shield began to puncture. The demons were starting to get through, but Bob said, “No, my faith is strong,” and the shield became solid again. When Bob woke, he said, “Lord, I asked you to show me something, and you showed me that it’s all about faith… I’ve got to believe. I’ve got to trust you.” Bob put this lesson into action—he asked the Lord to save him. He experienced many blessings during the next few years. He says, “The Lord showed all kinds of miracles and grace with the court system.” He’d been facing 56 years in prison but was released after just three. It seems like a perfect story, yet things don’t always work out so cleanly. When Bob got out of prison, instead of relying on God to change his life, he forgot the Lord and turned away. “It just kept getting worse from that time on,” he says. What kept him from turning back to God? Bob explains, “I was so ashamed because [God] had shown me all this stuff when I was younger, and I turned away from him… I was ashamed to ask him for help again… I think that’s a lie that the devil tells all of us: ‘You’re not worthy to ask for help.’” Bob spent a total of twelve years in prison. During this time, he lost relationship after relationship. He would try to get better sometimes and would beat his addiction for a while, yet the craving would always return, and he would inevitably fall back into old patterns. At some point Bob realized that the problem wasn’t society or anybody else—the problem was him. When he was 45, after more than three decades of addiction, Bob grew sick and tired of being sick and tired. He’d run from God

for so long, but finally, he repented, asking for God’s help and saying, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do.” After that day, Bob has never looked back. He entered a rehab program, graduating in 2011. While there, God gave Bob the idea for StraightWay, so after graduating, he got a job and began saving money. Finally in 2016, now seven years clean, Bob bought a building in Madisonville and founded the ministry to help men recovering from addiction. Recently, they’ve moved to a larger facility in Athens, and now they are the largest rehab home in the 10th Judicial District.

When people thank him for what StraightWay does, Bob simply smiles and responds, “It ain’t me. It’s Jesus.” If you want to help, you can donate over their website or reach out to them about volunteering. Their web address is

straightwayministry.com, Phone: 423-371-0269

Bob explains, “I wanted everyone who wanted help to get it because I knew personally how hard it was to get started once you’ve been to prison or jail…” He explains the difficulty such people face when trying to find jobs or homes even if they are genuinely trying to turn their lives around. People don’t want to hire former drug addicts, and without a job, it’s harder for them to stay out of trouble. After a new student’s first week in the home, Bob will help him find a job which will give him structure. Bob wants students to have the skills to be financially independent, so the ministry provides students with classes on money management, life skills, time management, and parenting. Most of all, however, Bob wants to help his students spiritually. “I tell them upfront what [the program] is all about, and it’s about them getting a personal relationship with Jesus Christ,” he says. Jesus was the only one who could break Bob’s addiction, so now Bob wants to see his students come to know Christ. To this end, they go to church services and attend Bible studies 4 times a week. Bob has seen countless students get saved and be baptized, their lives forever changed.

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

LIGHTHOUSE COMMUNITY LIFE CENTER

JOURNEY OF RESTORATION It was almost six years ago when Monroe County native Sharon Davis had a vision of restoration, of bringing life back to a place that was once a shining anchor in the community on the south side of Madisonville, located on the Hwy 411 corridor. The former Holiday Motor Lodge caught the eye and broke the heart of Ms. Davis. This heartbreak took her down a path she could never have imagined. She remembers pulling over and observing the open drug activity in the parking lot, thinking there was so much more opportunity and potential for this motel, and most importantly, for the people living there. It has been an amazing journey that she and many others have been on... Some might refer to it as a labor of love! Sharon—a graduate of Tellico Plains High School—was raised in the Mt. Vernon community and has driven by this motel for as long as she can remember. Prior to relocating back to Monroe County, Sharon was a Vice President of Human Resources and was also a flight attendant. Throughout her life, Sharon has always looked through the lens of what could be versus what is not. She would describe herself as a visionary, looking beyond what most people would discard. She admits she tried to move on from what she had seen at the Motor Lodge but could not.

THIS IS HER STORY.

Behind each story, there is always an inspiration, and this is how the story begins... I (Sharon Davis) remember driving by and thinking, “There, but for the grace of God go I.” That could be me living there. Individuals would be in the parking lot openly doing things that were very destructive to themselves and their families, especially the children that were living there, and that was when my heart began to break.

I told my mother that I didn’t understand why no one had addressed these issues and why we as a community would allow this to go on. So later that week, when my mother finally responded, I will never forget her words. As she was sitting in her chair reading her Bible and devotional, she looked up at me and said in her gentle voice, “Sharon, maybe God wants you to do something about it.”

For some reason, I could not get those images out of my mind. So, during that week, I would talk to my mother about what I was seeing. My mother, Doris Davis, has such a sweet, gentle spirit. She would listen to me but never responded until later that week.

It was at that very moment I felt an overwhelming sense of conviction that broke my heart and propelled me into action. I thought, why should I expect someone else to do something that I was not willing to do myself. I began to pray and seek God’s guidance and wisdom on how to respond

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

to what he was showing me. Immediately, I began to cross paths with people who had like-minded hearts and a desire to serve the broken in our community. The Recovery Group, which was an outreach ministry of the Englewood Church of God, along with other members in the Monroe and McMinn communities, came together with one heart and one vision to form Restoration Place Ministries. We began working on this old motel, which had formerly been a place of darkness for many and would then take on a new name—the Lighthouse—which was chosen to symbolize a beacon of hope and restoration to transform lives and also to honor my precious mother, who collects lighthouses, as she was the original inspiration behind this project.

Before restoration.

Picture 2: Middle - Restoration begins...All 20 rooms demoed out. Front clips removed to begin renovations with grant funding. Bottom: The Lighthouse begins to offer hope with exterior renovations to include new windows, doors, vinyl siding, stairs, banister, and new reception area. New metal roof completed for the office area made possible by donations and volunteer support.

SPRING 2022 2022 MONROE McMINN LIFE SPRING LIFE

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As the project continued to move forward, the group would later partner with True Purpose Ministries, based in Blount County, to transition this old motel into a community life center to serve Monroe County and the surrounding area. I believe we are all in a position in life to inspire and to create value in others. Likewise, we should keep our hearts and minds open to allow others to inspire us. In the beginning, there were several challenges to overcome, but my faith and persistence, along with support from others, kept me focused on the right thing to do. As I started spending time at the motel and getting to know the residents living there, I quickly learned that most of them were in a very dark, sad place. I distinctly remember being surrounded one day by a group of people who were actively using drugs, and they were not very happy that this lady had shown up to restore the motel. One of them got in my face, trying to intimidate me to leave, and the first words that came out of my mouth were, “I love you, and God loves you. What you are doing to yourself and your family needs to stop. I will be your biggest supporter if you are ready for change, but you will not continue to do what you are doing at this motel. This is going to become a place of hope and restoration, not destruction and darkness.” From that point on, I’d earned the nickname “That Lady.” Although I had been given a vision, I lacked the resources to take on such a large project, but God sent those in his own time. I learned God was not checking my bank account; he was checking my faith account. As the transition was taking place, there were people who were very mean and intimidating to me, but God had a plan for that also. Serving others can sometimes involve suffering, but I kept being persistent

30 28

McMINN MONROELIFE LIFE SPRING SPRING2022 2022

and not taking this experience personally, knowing that loving others would be the only way to create positive change. I even received many threats telling me to stop the work I was doing. With some of the initial challenges I was facing, I wondered how this vision would come to fruition. Soon, God crossed my path with a man who had spent 40 years in prison and knew how to stand up to bullies. This man had restored his life in prison when he began a personal relationship with God, and he wanted to be a part of this project to help others restore their lives. After being released from prison, he was homeless, but he wanted to use the skills he had learned while in prison to help with this project. So, with very few resources, we started working. Almost six years later, he continues to give of his time and talent as a volunteer every day. There are many examples of God’s hand moving and sending his provision with this project. One example involves the roof of the office area. Early on in our work, we received a lot of rain, and the leaks were so bad in the office area that we had to keep buckets under the drips and empty them hourly. The rain poured month after month, and volunteers repeatedly told me, “Sharon, we need a new roof.” My response was always prayer, as I knew we lacked the funds for a new roof. At this point, all I had was my faith, but I knew God would provide eventually. I have often heard that when something is God’s will, it is also his bill. While we were waiting on a financial miracle, I kept pushing forward with things that were within my control. I began to research what was needed for the roof repair and to get quotes for the materials. Eventually, an owner of a metal company called me back and scheduled a time to come out to give

me a quote. The day he came out to the motel, we shared with him the vision, and I could tell by his response he was intrigued. He measured the roof, and we discussed the materials needed. As the meeting concluded, he told me something I was not expecting. He said, “Ms. Sharon, I’ll tell you what I am going to do. I am going to donate the material for the roof. Also, here is some money to go buy some tools.” I was speechless. This job would have cost thousands of dollars! But God wasn’t finished with this man yet, because what happened next was even more amazing. As he was leaving and getting ready to open his truck door, he stopped, turned around, and said, “Oh, Ms. Sharon, I am going to send you the roofers too.” UNBELIEVABLE... As the project progressed, I realized we needed the support and leadership of a more established organization. I was introduced to Pastor Jeremy Graham and his wife Lynsey, the founders of True Purpose Ministries. Mr. Graham and I started collaborating and praying about working together on the motel. In the meantime, I worked with TPM to open a pregnant women’s center in Vonore called True Purpose Ministries Restoration Place for pregnant mothers struggling with addiction. I worked on this project while simultaneously working on the motel.

Did You Know? TRUE PURPOSE MINISTRIES RESTORATION PLACE At the Restoration Place, you can share your new beginning with your children because we treat the family as a whole!

Every 15 minutes a baby is born who is impacted by Opiates. Since opening in August of 2018, 22 babies have been born drug free. In 2020, I wrote my first grant application for True Purpose Ministries to purchase the motel and continue moving forward with renovations to transform it into the Lighthouse Community Life Center. Twenty-seven applications were submitted to the State of Tennessee, and the Lighthouse was one of seven chosen, receiving $325,000. This funding gave us the momentum to fasttrack the project towards completion. However, another unexpected delay later in 2020, the Covid pandemic, created material and labor shortages and supply chain delays. Since receiving my first grant, I, as Community Outreach Director for TPM, have continued to seek funding from grants and other sources. I was awarded a second grant to assist with the operational expenses to bring the project to completion, which has been extremely challenging with the unanticipated increase cost of materials. The Lighthouse is part of a three phase model to offer various services to those in need. The second phase will include a Homeless

Service Center, and the third phase will be a Business Center to offer employment. Most recently, TPM received funding from the Monroe County Commission and a private donor to relocate a triple wide mobile unit donated by Chota to serve as an emergency resource for people experiencing sudden homelessness. Despite the many challenges faced on this project, I continue to push forward to identify best practices and the support system needed to fulfill this vision. Once the Lighthouse is operational, TPM has received notification that a third grant will be made available to assist with ongoing operational costs to provide services to the community. TPM anticipates opening the Lighthouse Community Life Center in July of 2022, notwithstanding any additional delays with materials, with continued efforts focused on phase two and three. A formal ceremony will be scheduled to publicly recognize and thank all of the individuals who have been a part of this amazing journey of restoration...and in all things, “To God Be The Glory!”

If you would like to help: Main Office: 2628 Morganton Road, Maryville, TN 37801 Office: 865.681.4861 Email: tpmact@gmail.com

Tennessee State-Licensed Treatment

Our services include an initial “Bio-Psychosocial” Assessment that will equip our trained Staff to implement an Individual Treatment Plan for each Client. Our Curriculum with Individual and Group Therapy Sessions give each Woman the capabilities to live a long, drug free life. Bringing the Spiritual Back to Recovery Our Higher Power is that of Jesus Christ, who is presented to everyone that enrolls into our program with love and in a non-discriminatory fashion. Our model is 12-months long, where each student will have the opportunity to become free from the chains of addiction through Pastoral Discipleship and long-term accountability. Job Training and Readiness Our Job Training model prepares women to learn and refine certain skills to equip them for future job placement. Our Vision True Purpose Ministries Restoration Place is a faith-based, long term addiction recovery program providing Evidence-Based treatment and housing to Pregnant Women and their Children in a Therapeutic Community Environment. Our Mission Is to Rehabilitate expecting Mothers struggling with Substance Abuse by providing a Jesus-Christ Centered, Residential Program that offers hope, healing, education and life skills necessary to lead a life of lasting sobriety and fulfill their God-given True Purpose to become the Mother that God created them to be. SPRING 2022 McMINN LIFE

By Matt Hollingsworth

THERE ARE SEVERAL TYPES OF VEIN DISEASE WITH SYMPTOMS RANGING FROM COSMETIC TO PAINFUL OR EVEN DANGEROUS. VARICOSE VEIN DISEASE You likely know what varicose veins look like— swollen, twisted veins, usually in the legs. Often painful. So, what causes this disease? Your veins have small valves that let blood flow in one direction but not the other. Without these, your body would have trouble pumping blood upward. Varicose Vein Disease is where

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

these valves become weak in some veins which allows the blood to flow backwards and eventually pool. Now, your body has a lot of veins, so you don’t have to worry about not getting enough blood back to your heart. Even if some aren’t working, there are many others that will. However, while you’re not going to run out of blood, Varicose Vein

Disease can cause soreness, itching, swelling, and other symptoms. It’s even possible for the disease—if untreated—to cause blood clots or heavy bleeding. Often, there are more diseased veins farther under the surface of your skin. You can’t see these, but they can continue causing pain if untreated. Medical professionals use ultrasound to map out these invisible veins.

VENOUS LEG ULCERS This is the worst-case scenario for vein disease. The disease can result in painful ulcers which can cause bleeding or even clots. Even if the ulcer heals on its own, unless you get treatment, it has a 50% chance of returning over the next several years.

SPIDER VEINS & RETICULAR VEINS Varicose veins, spider veins, and reticular veins are extremely similar. They each refer to the valves in your veins weakening, but “varicose veins” are large veins, while “spider veins” are small ones and “reticular veins” are medium-sized.

HAND & FACIAL VEINS As people grow older, their veins often grow more pronounced. While this won’t cause any health problems, many people dislike how these veins look. Clinics like East Tennessee Vein Clinic work to improve their appearance.

Michelle Gilliam has treated varicose veins as a nurse for 20 years, and she works for East Tennessee Vein Clinic. She emphasized how much more affordable ETVC is than other vein treatments. An hour-long session with them costs less than a thirty-minute treatment with their competitors. Many times, other clinics only fix the more obvious surface veins, but they don’t treat the less visible feeder veins that cause the others to develop. Because of this, patients will often develop varicose veins again. East Tennessee Vein Clinic, however, will treat both surface and feeder veins, getting to the root of the problem to fix it permanently. ETVC provides comprehensive care, helping you with all aspects of vein disease. Many other clinics use hypertonic saline which is painful yet not very effective, but ETVC has the training to use less painful yet more powerful medications like sodium tetra sulfate and polidocanol.

IF YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE WITH VEIN DISEASE, CONSIDER REACHING OUT TO

EAST TENNESSEE VEIN CLINIC AT (865) 686-0507. The owner, Dr. Brittany Cook, is a diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and a member of the American Venous and Lymphatic Society. SPRING 2022 McMINN LIFE

Kim Bumpas explained more about the event: “We’re going to activate both the performance and the festival lawn in partnership with the Children’s Festival of Reading. It’s just going to be a whole day of great memories of the World’s Fair… We’ll have local makers, craft vendors. We’ll have international food trucks. We’ll have some international festival representation. We’re going to have a Ferris wheel and an arcade truck… We’ll have cultural entertainment in the amphitheater. We’re going to have history talks by different representatives in partnership with East Tennessee History Center and the Knoxville History Project.”

Children’s Festival of Reading May 21st 10 am to 5pm

World’s Fair Park FESTIVAL LAWN

From 10 am to 5pm that same day, May 21st, you can take your kids to the Children’s Festival of Reading on the World’s Fair Park festival lawn. The event is free, and there are several popular writers scheduled to attend.

Knoxville Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the 1982 World’s Fair KICKOFF MAY 21st Throughout 2022, Knoxville plans to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the World’s Fair it hosted in 1982. The anniversary kicks off with a celebration on May 21st from 10am to 9pm at World’s Fair Park. Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville, described it as, “our commemoration and celebration of the 40th anniversary of the 1982 World’s Fair.”

Learn more about the celebration at worldsfairknoxville.com.

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

Bumpas said, “The World’s Fair in 1982 ran from May to October, so this is just the kickoff.” All of Knoxville’s annual events during that part of the year will also follow this theme, celebrating the World’s Fair. Finally, there will be an ending event in October. Kim explained that the 1982 World’s Fair “put Knoxville on the map… It celebrated everything that was Knoxville.” Knoxville’s iconic Sunsphere was built for the event. The Fair was also one of the first premiers of a technology that you probably use every day—touchscreens.

President Ronald Reagan Dedication of the US Pavilion, 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville, Tennessee “We live our dreams. We make them come true. Our ideas and energies combine in a dynamic force–the kind of force that made the developments and breakthroughs and discoveries in this building possible.” News Sentinel Photo

March 19 October 9, 2022 Museum of East Tennessee History Rogers-Claussen Feature Gallery In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the 1982 World’s Fair, the Museum of East Tennessee History invites you to visit the interactive, one-of-a-kind exhibition “You Should’ve Been There!” in the Rogers-Claussen Feature Gallery.

The exhibition’s theme is not only a nod to the international exposition’s marketing catchphrase, “You Have Got to Be There! The 1982 World’s Fair!” but also an acknowledgement that four decades removed, there is a generation of East Tennesseans who were not alive to experience the historic event. “You Should’ve Been There!” traces the fair’s development from conception to the pivotal moment when The Wall Street Journal referred to Knoxville as a “scruffy little city” and questioned its ability to host an international event. The negative publicity, however, brought out the “I’ll show you spirit” and stiffened local resolve to make it a highly successful fair. More than 11,000,000 visitors from around the world were informed and entertained in the various pavilions, exhibitions, and

attractions put on by 22 countries and some 50 private organizations. Popular fair souvenirs were shirts and buttons proclaiming, “The Scruffy Little City Did It!” The fair’s theme, “Energy Turns the World,” played to the region’s reputation as a technology and science center. In fact, it was at the 1982 World’s Fair that users were able to try out a touchscreen for the first time. To honor that spirit of innovation, “You Should’ve Been There!” incorporates engaging touchscreen experiences alongside, of course, displays of original fair materials from pickle pins to deely boppers and everything in between. We invite you to come visit this “scruffy little exhibition,” as Knoxville looks back on—and revives the spirit of—when the world came to town!

SPRING 2022

McMINN LIFE

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

Ron Lowery’s Magic Carpet By Matt Hollingsworth

Why do superheroes fly? Perhaps one reason is wish fulfilment—who wouldn’t want to be able to fly, after all? We may not be able to soar through the air like Superman, but we’ve designed experiences that come close. Yet, while staring out the window of a large passenger plane can offer pretty (though restricted) views, it doesn’t really feel like flying, does it? Photographer Ron Lowery has spent a lot of time in planes, but not the large passenger ones. Instead, he and his son built a unique twin engine experimental airplane from a kit. It has no roof and barely has enough space for Ron to sit. As he described, “If you take a typical plane that has an enclosed cockpit, you don’t see part of the environment, but with [my plane], there’s nothing around you… It’s like a magic carpet ride.” This sounds much more like the kind of flying we dream of— nothing but us and the clouds. Ron has spent countless hours in the sky, and from his perch, he has taken breathtaking photographs. He became interested in photography when he was in high school. His uncle travelled to other countries, taking lots of pictures, which Ron would always look forward to seeing. This sparked his interest in photography.

Ron was a professional photographer for many years. Some of his images have earned totals of over $180,000, and one was featured in The Wall Street Journal. He’s also done underwater photography in eight countries. Possibly his most breathtaking works, however, are the aerial photographs taken from his homebuilt plane, Cloud Chaser, which he has flown in 37 states. In 2003, he even retraced the famous journey of Lewis and Clark, flying Cloud Chaser over 14,000 miles across America with writer Mary Walker. He described this journey as a kaleidoscope of cities, rivers, farmland, prairies, and badlands. They created a book about this adventure called Chasing Lewis & Clark Across America, which was designed by Ron’s wife Sue. When Ron goes out in his plane, he won’t have a particular image in mind that he wants to photograph. He just looks for scenes that will make good compositions. “You can’t predetermine a shot,” he said. He lives in Chattanooga and has taken many pictures of East Tennessee. He especially enjoys photographing the Little Tennessee River as well as Tennessee’s farmland. He created a book of local photography called Tennessee River: Sparkling Gem of the South.

https://www.ronlowery.com

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MONROE LIFE

Ron’s plane was originally designed for National Geographic to take pictures of the African Congo. It took Ron and his son three years to build from the kit. This was so long that silverfish ate the ink off the labels of some pieces, so he would have to go to the factory to find out which part was which and where everything went—like the world’s worst IKEA product. In 30 years, he’s never crashed, largely because he avoids risks like flying in bad weather. Our world is beautiful, and Ron Lowery has seen it in a way few have from his homemade “magic carpet.”

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

Bruce McCamish PHOTOGRAPHY GALLERY Every First Friday from March through December Open Gallery, 7th Floor of the Sunsphere 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Private showings available upon request. Stop by, enjoy the view, and say hello.

McMINN LIFE SPRING 2022

Sequoyah Remembrance Day August 7

1776 - 1843

FATHER, SOLDIER, SILVERSMITH,BLACKSMITH, STATESMAN, AND CREATOR OF THE CHEROKEE SYLLABARY. NEW 2.7 MILLION DOLLAR EXHIBIT

Advanced media technologies and electronics enhance visitors’ enjoyment of this all new exhibit. It portrays the Cherokee life and the legacy of Sequoyah in an all new multi-million dollar museum.

Sequoyah Birthplace Museum will be celebrating Sequoyah Remembrance Day and Sequoyah’s contribution to the Cherokee people by creating a writing system, the Cherokee Syllabary with free admission to the museum from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The 1809 Cherokee Blacksmith shop will be up and running with demonstrations all through the afternoon. Local demonstrators will also be set up demonstrating pine needle baskets and Gary Holt will be talking about the Cherokees in the Civil War in our 1800’s dog-trot log cabin.

Cherokee Fall Festival September 10 & 11

Visitors will have the opportunity to step back in time to experience food, Cherokee arts and crafts demonstrations, music and dance. A blacksmith will be doing on-site demonstrations in the shop both days. Other demonstrations and displays will include Cherokee life in 1700’s and a Civil War encampment.

Open Year Round Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm Sunday: Noon - 5pm 423-884-6246 seqmus@tds.net Highway 360, Vonore, Tennessee Owned and Operated by the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians

Labor Day Weekend September 3 & 4 Balloons, Food Trucks, Great Bands A Fund Raiser for The Boys & Girls Club & Other Children’s Charities In Monroe County

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BRADEN’S

Lifestyles at Turkey Creek COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • HOSPITALITY INTERIOR DESIGN • STAGING • ACCESSORIES

11105 Turkey Creek Drive • 865-777-4059 • info@bradens.com www.bradens.com

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

OVER 10,000 sq ft Two Stores One Street Open Everyday 10am - 5pm 423-351-9480

423-271-6120

309 N Main Street 305 N Main Street Sweetwater, TN 37874 We Buy Antiques and Take Consignments. Layaway Plans are available.

Check out Sweetwater Antiques online at sweetwaterantiques.com Find us on

ed fun We are old-fashion with modern ideas!

sweetwater general

yeah, we're not that kind of General Store

Lumber Company

LLC

Lumber Company

he new year has arrived with new items to talk about with customers. Deborah and Danny McFalls, owners of Everhart Lumber Company, are pleased to note a large magnolia log has been purchased and is now being turned into furniture. The above picture features a dining table with a large magnolia wood top.

to our showroom including unique poplar and walnut tables. We are offering ready-made and custom-made furniture from wood with character to make dining, coffee, and sofa tables and other types of furniture. The teak wood furniture and related teak home décor items continue to arrive in the showroom including art vases, bowls, sofa tables and other type tables.

We are adding new pieces of furniture

L LC Our inventory of home décor also includes newly arrived charcuterie boards (serving trays/ cutting boards), lamps with hand painted shades, and antiques that blend well with new or vintage furniture. We continue to offer wood slabs for customers to make their own furniture. The building supplies include custom-made barn-wood style doors, additional display of mantels, and barnwood paneling.

STORE HOURS 877.857.8062C. | 423.253.2323O. Tuesday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00 911 HIGHWAY 165, TELLICO PLAINS, Saturday 9:00 - 2:00 TN 37385

www.everhart-lumber.com

Fireplace Mantles

Charcuterie Boards

Home Décor Items

Walnut Bar & Carved Eagle

We offer charcuterie boards, lamps, pictures, teak wood art vases, trays, carved bowls, and antiques.

Building Supply Needs

We provide specialized wood building products that includes mantels, wooden tops for kitchen islands, and stair treads from many difference wood species. For the interior walls, we offer paneling made from reclaimed barn wood. We also offer custom-made barn-wood style doors to meet our customers’ needs. Please visit our showroom to see how our wood products are used by our customers. FALL 2021 Barnwood Doors

MONROE LIFE

Come shop the all new Sweetwater Flower Shop and indulge in delicious foods from Upstairs at the Mansion. Sweetwater Flower Shop Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm Saturday: 10am-3pm 423.337.6623 Upstairs at the Mansion Monday-Friday: 11am-4pm *Available for Private Parties 423.807.0541

118 W NORTH STREET, SWEETWATER, TN 37874 • 423.337.6623

Currently, in Monroe County we are facing a true drug epidemic that impacts all of our citizens as well as the availability of quality and affordable housing.

What issue is not getting enough attention?

The issue that is not getting enough attention is making basic living essentials more accessible to our citizens by expanding water and broadband access.

Stephen Hatchett

Candidate for District Attorney General, 10th Judicial District

What distinguishes you from the other candidates?

Crime is a societal problem and like all societal problems there are strategies that can keep crime low and there are strategies that make crime worse. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology, literally the science of crime. No other candidate in this race brings the knowledge base to the issue of crime that I do. I was also a prosecutor with years of trial experience. I know what strategies work. As District Attorney I will implement these strategies to keep our communities safe.

What is the most pressing issue for the County?

The most pressing issue is the rising crime rates, particularly violence and drugs. The population in East Tennessee is steadily growing and with that growth there has to be solid, effective strategies in place to deal with crime. Otherwise the problems we see around us are going to become much worse and more difficult to get under control.

What issue is not getting enough attention?

The increase in drug houses over the last few years. Commonly referred to as “trap houses” these are residences where there is a flow of people buying drugs. For whatever reason, this issue has been almost completely ignored by the current District Attorney’s Office. As District Attorney, I intend to shut down these “trap houses” and keep them shut down so people can have their neighborhoods back.

This is a political advertisement, paid for by each political candidate represented.

Hot Pepper Red - Black Diamond Edition

Tickets go on sale April 15, 2022

ONLY 1300 TICKETS WILL BE SOLD

You do not have to be present to win! Tickets will be $100 each Winner will be drawn August 13, 2022

Tickets - $100 each Call Carly at 423-442-6770 x102 for more information

McMinn Life Spring 2022

Articles inside

Message From The Athens City Manager

East Tennessee Foundation Names New Leaders