Monroe Life Fall 2022 by Bingham Group

2022 Hundreds of FALL EVENTS NEW BALLOON:110DAZ FEET TALL! Monroe Life Starting With The Best Balloon Festival Ever

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1FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE THIRDBRADEN’SANNUAL COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • HOSPITALITY INTERIOR DESIGN • STAGING • ACCESSORIES BRADEN’S Lifestyles at Turkey Creek 11105 Turkey Creek Drive • 865-777-4059 • info@bradens.com www.bradens.com ON-STAFF INTERIOR DESIGNERS Cares IF YOU DONATE TO A CHARITY, YOU CAN GET ANY PIECE OF BRADEN’S FURNITURE IN THE SHOWROOM AND GET A BRADEN THE BEAR! 50% OFF $50

2 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 118 West North Street • Sweetwater, TN 37874 • 423-337-6623 www.sweetwaterflowers.com • Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm • Saturday: 10am - 3pm ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3RD Come by light refreshments will be served! And it is the biggest sale of the year, August 29th - September 3rd! Thank you for Voting Sweetwater Flower theShop #1 Florist in Monroe County

4 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 Contents featuresInglesTableRecipesandToolsForSchools 36 33 50 PLEIN AIR - PAINT OUT Tour Beautiful Homes While Raising Money for Charity MONROE COUNTY NATIVE CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE Jerome MASTERGARDNER Elaeagnus Hiwassee River& the Scenic Railroad 31

5FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE departments House 6 From The Publisher 26 MadisonvilleHappeningsEventsPresbyterianPlains 8 MOONSHINE FLIERS Return To The Balloon F E S T I V A L 22 ENTERTAINERS EXCLUSIVE www.monroelife.com 53 HALLOWEEN TREATS

We are thankful for all our sponsors who make the Balloon Festival possible, and we’re thankful for our advertisers who keep our magazine going. But most of all, we’re thankful for our readers. We’ve put a lot of time and care into this issue. I hope you enjoy it. A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove...but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child. –Forest E Witcraft, teacher/scholar Kathryn, Alyssa, Kelsey Bingham with friend Lukas Hake at Mayfields Corn Maze and my girls in jail for charity at Roll Arena on Halloween last year.

PUBLISHER The Bingham Group President Lisa Atkins Bingham Graphic Designers Cris Littleton Jason Bowers Lisa Bingham Contributing Writers Matt Hollingsworth Gayle Fisher Nancy Dalton Linda Humphrey Contributing Photographers Megan Brackett The Moonshine Fliers Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com Subscription or Editorial Inquiries Tel: 865.523.5999 www.monroelife.com The Bingham Group, Inc. 11921 Kingston Pike, Suite 201 Knoxville, Tennessee 37934 www.binghamgroup.com www.monroelife.com www.mcminnlife.com www.farragutlife.com Monroe Life From thePublisher

Sometimes “thank you” seems like an insufficient phrase, as if it lacks the power to express the gratitude I feel to the people of Monroe County. I wish I had a stronger phrase, but lacking one, I’ll just have to do the best I can. Thank you to the local businesses who sponsor this magazine. Thank you to our readers. I hope you enjoy this issue. Thank you to Monroe County for being such an incredible place. And thank you to all the sponsors and attendees of our annual Monroe Life Balloon Festival. I cannot express how important this festival has been to me over the years. It’s a duty for all of us to support and care for the kids of our community, and one of the ways I do this is through the festival which raises money for the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County. Thank you to everyone in Monroe County but especially to the Boys and Girls Club for all you do for our children. This festival is our gift to you. Perhaps it’s stronger than a “Thank you.” Have you always wanted to go in a few of those beautiful houses in Rairty Bay or Tellico Village? Another great event is the Tellico Village Women’s Club’s Home Tour, which also raises money for charities. You’ll tour beautiful homes, asking questions, and getting inspiration for your own interior décor. You can get a sneak peek at the featured homes in this issue. Wow, are they stunning!

6 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

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To change this, Governor Bill Lee created the new Tennessee Office of Reentry in 2021. It is a central source that creates and coordinates opportunities for those who have been arrested, been in prison, or been in jail during the reentry process. This new state office provides a key resource for people in need of reentry services, helping them locate employment, find education classes and job skills training, get help and treatment for addiction, find healthcare services, locate housing, and even get help with work-related expenses, such as uniforms, child care, transportation, and more. The Office of Reentry coordinates with numerous organizations—such as Tennessee’s American Jobs Centers— that provide help to justice-involved individuals, so it’s a great starting point for people who are reentering society, along with family and friends who are supporting them. In fact, it’s been estimated that the Office of Reentry and its programs could save Tennessee taxpayers up to 74 million dollars every year. The director of the office is Dr. William Arnold, and his team includes Sophia Young, Luke Fulton, Jeremy White, Marsheka Dunn, and Trevor White. Justice-involved individuals can use the online resources at TNWorkReady.com or stop by their local American Job Center to find help.

The Bingham Group full-service advertising agency established in 1989. Our clients encompass all aspects of industry from tourism to water sports to state and local governments. Utilizing state-of-the-art industry tools, equipment, resources and applications, we provide our clients top-notch creative services and media placement.

Recently, we entered a contract with the State of Tennessee to promote the Office of Reentry. Resources, Contact Lisa Bingham, CEO (865) 523-5999 Lisa@BinghamGroup.com

Governor Bill Lee’s Office of Reentry Seeks to Help Justice-Involved Individuals

We Are Here To Help. www.tn.workready.com It s okay We Are Here To Help. Been Arrested? . ‘

About The Bingham Group

For More

Less than half of justice-involved individuals leaving jail are successful with reentry. Governor Bill Lee created Office of Reentry in 2021. creates and coordinates who have been arested, in jail during the reentry office prvides a key resource reentry services, helping find eduction classes and help and treatment for services, locate housing, work-related expenses, care, transportation, and The Office of Reentry coordinates organizations—such as Centers—that provide help individuals, so it’s a great who are reentering society, and friends who are supporting been estimated that the Office of Reentry its programs could save Tennessee taxpayers to 74 million dollars every year. Justice-involved individuals can use the online resources TNWorkReady.com or stop by their local Job Center to find help. TBG created floor stickers, posters, transit posters, and three television commercials and is placing the media statewide.gnisitrevdA egakcaP

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The Bingham Group Wins Reentry Contract With The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development GOVERNOR BILL LEE’S INITIATIVE SEEKS TO HELP JUSTICE-INVOLVED INDIVIDUALS

ngiseD beW Dse i ng Scep i a l E f f e c t s An i mat i on Interactive CDs Broadcast Design TVCommercials Corporate Videos PHONE 865-523-5999 • FAX 865-523-0999 W W W B I N G H A M G R O U P C O M PHONE 865-523-5999 • FAX 865-523-0999 W W W B I N G H A M G R O U P C O M

Tennessee, June 29, 2022—Less than half of justice-involved individuals leaving jail are successful with reentry.

8 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

SEQUOYAH BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM, VONORE TETHERED RIDES START AROUND 4 - 5PM BALLOON GLOW AT DUSK WEATHER PERMITTING. CRAFT VENDORS • FUNNEL CAKES • BARBEQUE • CORN DOGS • PULLED PORK THE ZACHARYAUSTINBAND Voted Best Male Vocalist in Georgia for 2 Years In A Row! LABOR DAY WEEKEND SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3RD & SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 4th 4 -10pm

The 9th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Festival will return to East Tennessee at The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore, Tennessee. Enjoy balloon rides, live music, food, games, an inflatable Kid’s Zone and much more all while supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County. The two-day Balloon Festival begins on Saturday, September 3rd from 4pm – 10pm, and runs through Sunday, September 4th, from 4pm – 10pm. The finale each night will be a Balloon Glow set to music with colorful hot air balloons beginning at dusk. We invite everyone to come out and join in the celebration!”

$10 A PERSON KIDS 4 AND UNDER ARE FREE ADMISSION SANDWICHES • FRIED OREOS • HAMBURGERS • COTTON CANDY AND OTHER FUN FOODS! 2021 Festival

Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut Contributor Beneﬁting the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County

Longhorn Menu

10 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 TICKETS: BEST SEATS AT THE FESTIVAL Dinner Steakhouse Hospitality Tent Best Seats At The Festival! Reserved Parking Buy Your Tickets Online: $125 PER PERSON www.monroelifeballoonfestival.comLimitedSeating

Beneﬁting the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County 11644 Parkside Drive Farragut, TN 37934 (865) 966-6954

Cavatappi Pasta Firecracker Chicken Wraps

Peach Cobbler Englaise

Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut 11644 Parkside Drive Farragut, TN 37934 (865) 966-6954

Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut Contributor Beneﬁting the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County

Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut Contributor Beneﬁting Longhorn Menu

Longhorn Menu

Grilled Chicken Florentine Cavatappi Pasta Firecracker Chicken Wraps

Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut Contributor Beneﬁting the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County Menu

Longhorn

Peach Cobbler Englaise Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut

11644 Parkside Drive Farragut, TN 37934 (865) 966-6954 Description:

Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut Contributor

Grilled Chicken Florentine Cavatappi Pasta Firecracker Chicken Wraps

9th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Festival

Peach Cobbler Englaise Longhorn Steakhouse of Farragut 11644 Parkside Drive Farragut, TN 37934 (865) 966-6954

9th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Festival

Grilled Chicken Florentine

Grilled Chicken Florentine Cavatappi Pasta Firecracker Chicken Wraps

9th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Festival

11FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE TETHERED RIDES START AROUND 4 - 5PM $20 PER PERSON WEATHER PERMITTING. CRAFT VENDORS • FUNNEL CAKES • BARBEQUE • CORN DOGS • PULLED PORK SANDWICHES • FRIED OREOS • HAMBURGERS • COTTON CANDY AND OTHER FUN FOODS! Juried Arts & Craft Vendors!40 $10 A PERSON KIDS 4 AND UNDER ARE FREE GENERAL ADMISSION LOTS OF KIDS ACTIVITIES • BOUNCE HOUSES

Mischief

Mischief BUY

BALLOONMEISTERDURHAMandhiswife,TONIDURHAMMemphis,Tennessee TICKETS ONLINE OR AT THE GATE We will have separate gates for attendees that already have www.monroelifeballoonfestival.comtickets. is 120,000 square feet, 9 stories tall and was made in 2019. The basket has a door and is handicap accessible.

Skip and Toni have been involved in ballooning since 2009, first as a private pilot flying for fun and then as a commercial pilot. In 2010, they formed Bluff City Balloons to give others the fun and enjoyment of a private hot air balloon ride. They have one of only 6 balloons in the country specially outfitted to take up folks with any special needs. Giving and sharing is a way of life for the Durhams. They are excited to be a part of the festival.

SKIP

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BILL Germantown,CUNNINGHAMTennessee

When he started ballooning 44 years ago, Bill, not knowing any better, thought he could get rich and have fun doing it. He has met exactly half of those goals. Ballooning may not be a great way to get rich, but it’s certainly a great way to make friends and memories. Bill has flown in 40 states plus Mexico and Canada, and he has logged over 2,300 hours in the air. He says it’s difficult to pick a favorite flight because all these places are beautiful in their own way. Bill has been married to his wife Martha for 49 years. They have two daughters, Jenny, who is the mother of his three grandkids, and Maggie, who is a Delta Airlines pilot. The highlight and most treasured memory of his ballooning career is last year on Father’s Day when his daughters, grandkids and sons-in-law all crewed for him at a balloon event in Memphis, and for the first time in 44 years, he got all his girls (wife and daughters) in the basket with him for their first flight together. In 1981, Bill started flying in national and international hot air balloon competitions, and since then he’s had 17 top 5 finishes in 25 events plus 2 more 7th place finishes. He would love for you to come to take a ride in his balloon at the Monroe Life Balloon Festival.

www. LVaHotAir.com Daz: The Whirling Rascal NEW BALLOON:

WILLIAM

14 MONROE LIFE

Will’s enthusiasm for ballooning first began when his father took him to The Shawnee Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival as a young boy. He has always had a passion for everything “flight,” and fixed wing is where he really began his journey into aviation. As a student fixed wing pilot, he began logging hours intending to become a commercial airline pilot. One day, he happened to stumble across a small ad on Craigslist for a balloon chase crew, which instantly ignited that spark he’d felt as a young child. He spent a few weeks driving over an hour each way to crew for a local hot air balloon ride company, and even before his first ride in a hot air balloon, he just knew that he wanted to fly one! With no family history of ballooning, and being turned away by a few local pilots who just didn’t take him seriously, he tracked down world renowned commercial pilot Stan Hess of the US Hot Air Balloon Team and began his journey toward his private ballooning license. In 2018, he completed his commercial license as well. Back in his hometown of Coopersburg Pennsylvania, Will, his wife Jerika—who is currently a student pilot herself—and their 6 children currently own and operate Lehigh Valley Hot Air, a ride company flying with several local pilots. They also hold corporate contracts for Wicked, the Broadway musical, and Meineke Car Care Center. Will and his family enjoy traveling around the US and Mexico offering tethered hot air balloon rides at festivals and flying their special shape balloon “DAZ—The Whirling Rascal.” Weighing 480 pounds and measuring 110 feet in height, this balloon is a behemoth. It has two turning vents allowing it to spin during flights. The Monroe Life Balloon Festival is one of only a handful of events where Daz has appeared this year. RANDELL & JERIKA Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania WEIGHT: 480 LBS STANDS: 110 FEET TALL Daz has two turning vents allowing it to spin during flights!

JOHN STRAUSS Somerset, New Jersey into ballooning as a teenager started by crewing, but later on, friend bought their own 2000, John got his commercial crewed on over 100 specially including ones in the a sailing ship, and even the Egypt. Over the years, he’s memories, including seeing six proposals in his basket. company where he eliminated his department, allowing himself to ballooning fullcommercially, giving rides, and now works for Lehigh owned by Will Randell who attending the festival with his Whirling Rascal. ballooning,” John said. “It’s the only can land in someone’s people hop out and have a yard and they’re happy “Please tell me that’s actually happened,” our interviewer responded. “Oh, it happens all the time,” John said. “We pop open the champagne, do a toast with the landowner—love it.”

Wicked F E S T I V A L WEIGHT: 257 LBS STANDS: 64 FEET TALL

Photo: Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker in the cockpit of a biplane. Andy Cayton's balloon is named after Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker. To learn more of this heroes story go to: allthatsinteresting.com/eddie-rickenbacker

Andy is The Record Holder For Longest Solo Hot Air Balloon Flight In History!

16 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

Eddie & Rickenbacker

JOHN “ ANDY” CAYTON Black Creek, GA (Savannah area) Andy Cayton’s gas balloon drifted over the vast, barren expanse of the Nevada desert as part of his world record attempt. It was the middle of the night and for the last several hours, he'd been on the radio with Air Traffic Control of Area 51, the top-secret military testing installation. His planned route avoided the installation's no-fly zone. Unfortunately, the winds weren't cooperating and he was in danger of drifting to close. Finally, Air Traffic Control warned him he would be shot down if he didn’t land or avoid the area. Immediately, Andy changed course, forfeiting the world record attempt. This wasn’t his only strange experience. During another race, he ended up landing in a Canadian polar bear reserve where he had to be rescued by the Canadian Air Force. Unfortunately, they weren’t able to take their balloon with them and had to go back for it another time, but by then, the polar bears had ripped it to pieces. At least Andy won the race, though! Andy owns Feather Hot Air Balloons. He has 3,200 hours in helicopter, more than 730 hours in hot air balloons, and more than 700 hours in gas balloons. He is a Former U.S. Army Special Forces pilot and aviation safety officer. When he retired from the military after 22 years, ballooning seemed like a good way to keep flying. He holds the world record for longest solo hot air balloon flight in history. This involved flying over 1,000 miles over the course of 17 hours from Minot North Dakota to Arkansas. His countless other accomplishments speak for themselves: America’s Challenge Race History: 9 (2003, 2004, 2006-9, 2013, 2015, 2017). Won in 2006 with Kevin Knapp as co-pilot, 2007 with Stuart Enloe as co-pilot and with Krzysztof Zapart as co-pilot. Gordon Bennett History: 8 (2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2014, 2019). Finished 2nd in 2018 and third Awards: Montgolfier Diploma: 2005 for hot air balloon and 2019 for gas In America’s Challenge in 2017, Krzysztof and Andy were one of the two teams the 20+-year-old America’s Challenge record. They flew nearly 2,200 miles km) and were only 90 miles short of the race before they ran out of real estate and resources. In 2018, Andy and his co-pilot Bill Smith very close to winning the Gordon Bennett and with it the world championships, a nail-biter of a flight that included a transit over the Mediterranean Sea. Andy has a distinguished record military aviation, earning the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal Air Medal with Valor, Air Medal, Accommodation Medal (x2), Army Achievement Medal (x2), Senior Badge, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Boeing Defense and Rescue Citation (x2).

Wahl releases the small helium balloon watches carefully as it twists and turns currents. He needs to know what the wind is blowing at all different The information is critical if he’s win the balloon rally. boards his hot air balloon with his crew and fires his burners, causing it to the ground. Their target is a tall pole distance with a key on the top. competing balloonists will go one at a whoever grabs the key wins the gets one step closer to the rally’s prize. Navigating a hot air balloon is not easy. There’s no way to directly control where it is going as the balloon will always travel in the same direction as the wind. Fortunately, the wind is often blowing in different directions at different altitudes, so pilots can raise and lower the balloon to reach air currents moving in the direction they want. This is why Mike released the balloon earlier. Navigating this way takes experience, intuition, and some luck. Eventually, Mike and his crew member reach the pole, but precision flying in a balloon is difficult, and they have trouble getting low enough to grab the key. Fortunately, there’s another option. Each balloonist in the rally was given a numbered bean bag to throw at the X at the base of the pole. The bags that land are scored from the pole at the X outward, with the closest three winning descending cash prizes. Unable to reach the key, Mike and his crew member look for the bean bag… only to realize that they’ve somehow left it behind, meaning they have no way to win the competition. Panicking, they begin throwing random objects overboard instead—gloves, bags, whatever is loose in the basket. Finally, the wind carries them away from the pole and they have to land. At the end of the competition, when all the results have been measured, the judges return with a handful of bean bags dropped by other pilots… and a pile of random objects from Mike’s balloon. “Here’s all the stuff you dumped,” the judge says. Mike asks if their creative solution still counts, and the judges inform him that he has won second place. Over the years, Mike would go on to win countless other rallies but never in quite so unique a way as this.

17FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE

Cool Ray is a blue and yellow balloon built by Aerostar in Iowa in 2000. It’s a smaller and lighter-weight balloon that can carry up to 2 passengers with a pilot, although they normally fly 1 normal-sized person because of the summer’s higher temperatures. We call it “Cool Ray” because of the happy face on top with sunglasses. It’s been flown in Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee. It’s about 90 feet tall. Mike Wahl was up close at last year’s Balloon Festival. The crowd loved asking him questions and getting to know him. You are welcome to walk up to any of the pilots on the field, take pictures or purchase a ticket for a tether ride to see what it ballooning really feels like.

MIKE Decatur,WAHLAlabama

18 MONROE LIFE FALL

He also said, “My favorite time flying is balloon events because… the crowd just really enjoys it, and they’re in awe. Especially flying out of an event, seeing the event as you fly away from it, is just an amazing experience. Seeing the crowd’s amazement, as well as hearing the bands… Around here, our event [the Alabama Jubilee] is held right next to the Tennessee River. Flying over that is just a great sight.”

Brian Dial leapt from the plane into the open air, parachute on his back, thousands of feet between him and the ground. The wind whipped past his ears, and the Earth seemed to charge towards him. This was Brian Dial’s old hobby—skydiving. His new hobby Bandit also involves the sky but in a much more relaxing—and less terrifying—way. As a teenager, Brian Dial helped crew hot air balloons, but it wasn’t until he was 45, eight years ago, that he decided to pursue his pilot’s certificate. balloon, Bandit, used by a previous record for highest female balloonist balloon—32,000 Brian said, “Ballooning is a lot different than other forms of aviation because it’s so quiet and slow-moving. You can drift at treetops and see deer and animals running around, or you can go to a much higher altitude and see long distances, kind of get a panoramic view. But what I really like about it is you have time to look and study and find things, whereas in an airplane or even a helicopter, you’re usually moving really fast and you just catch glimpses of things.”

Brian loves to take his family out flying, including his wife, Beth, and their children— Brady (who is also Brian’s crew chief), Abbi, Savanna and Shianna—as well as his sisters and their families. Brian said, “That’s one of the things I really enjoy about ballooning is it gets the family together.”

Bandit is classified as an AX7 balloon. It is 55 ft wide and 60 ft tall, with a volume of 77,000 cubic feet. It can carry up to 3 people with a maximum payload of 750 pounds. It was built in 1994.

Decatur,BRIAN2022DIALAlabama

But Maximillian doesn’t just fly balloons—he creates them. He hand-sewed both of the balloons that he’s bringing to this year’s festival, one shaped like a tetrahedron and the other a breast cancer ribbon. Both were immensely challenging to engineer, with complex internal panels. The tetrahedron took about 450 hours to make. Warrior

Maximillian Bodenbender took his first hot air balloon ride when he was only five months old. He wasn’t scared by the fire, so his parents kept taking him to every balloon festival, and soon he’d fallen in love with ballooning. H+e started getting to know the pilots and joining flight crews. He began flight training when he was only 14. His favorite time to fly is at dawn. He described the beautiful scene: “Dawn patrol flights are the greatest thing I have ever experienced while flying, seeing the world wake up as the sun rises. You’re flying in total darkness. It’s unbelievably serene and surreal to have no vision of anything on the ground, except for a few flickering lights of cars passing [under the] trees as you’re flying over, and to watch the sun come up and break through little bits and pieces of the fog and valleys and create shadows through the trees, and [to] start to hear the roosters out in the countryside calling out, and hearing birds start to chirp, and seeing the world wake up around you—there is nothing that I’ve ever experienced that is that beautiful.”

He learned his craft from his mentor, Keith Sproul, who sold him his first sewing machine. Maximillian is currently working on rebuilding a 110-foot-tall balloon shaped like a penguin with a bow tie. He has other ideas for balloon designs including a silhouette of a kiss and a balloon with 2,000-3,000 panels designed to look interwoven.

MAXIMILLIANLouisville,BODENBENDERKentucky

He described the wide eyes of kids approaching his balloon, just staring in amazement. “This is why you do it,” he said. “You do it for the smiles. You do it for the folks to make them happy.”

BEN NOYCE Bolivar, Tennessee Briar Rose

20 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

“Well, you know what they say about doing that is you’ll get hooked,” Ben said, chuckling. That’s exactly what happened, and by 2012, he was in the process of getting his pilot’s license. “I always liked flying,” Ben recalled. “The only problem is I’ve always gotten air sickness when I’m up in the pilot’s seat of small planes. But flying a balloon is totally different. I keep telling all of our passengers, if it’s done right, you’ll never even feel yourself coming off the ground, and if it’s done right again, you’ll never even know you’re back on the ground. It’s something completely different. You don’t feel the forces… It’s quiet except for when the burner is going, but as a pilot, the only real reason I do it is for the kids and the smiles. When you see the kids and the passengers take that awe-inspiring look—that does it.”

The students have returned, but unfortunately, the donations have not, at least not fully. During the pandemic, Boys and Girls Club had to cancel most of their fundraisers. Now, the world is back open, but their donations have yet to fully recover to previous levels.

Money Raised Goes To The Monroe County Boys and Girls Club

One great way to help them is by attending the Monroe Life Balloon Festival during Labor Day Weekend, a non-profit event raising money for the organization.

Director of Finance Carly Armstrong explained the importance of their work: “The Boys and Girls Club, for a lot of parents, is a lifeline because it allows them to stay on their jobs up until 7 O’clock if they need to… They know [their kids] are in a safe, caring environment, and they don’t have to worry about them.”

In 2011, Ben Noyce attended a balloon festival, not as a pilot but as a public safety official. He was stationed near the balloon pilots with whom he became quick friends, and one day, they offered him a ride. The pandemic was hard on a lot of organizations, including Boys and Girls Club of the Ocoee Region which provides after-school care and academic help to young people. For the first months of the pandemic, they had to shut down in-person classes, and for another year, they were restricted to half-capacity. But now, the students are returning, and they’re on track to exceed pre-pandemic levels. “We, this year, have enrolled 809 kids,” said Staci Dean, North Director of Operations. “We are averaging about 300 kids after school and about 250 in the summer per day… and that’s just Monroe County.”

Not quite death defying but highly satisfying, is the opportunity to fly like a bird with no walls or windows. It’s the shared world of powered paragliding for The Moonshine Fliers of East Tennessee who look forward to the uncommon opportunity of watching the ground disappear below their feet while leaving the ordinary behind. And each one within the group of 24 men and one woman, lives for the opportunity to have their heads—literally—in the clouds as opposed to their feet on the ground while still living lives anchored in principle and passion. PPG offers freedom to the fliers who range in age from 22 to 60. In the Knoxville suburbs, surrounded by majestic mountains and hills, are a variety of air parks that provide perfect spots for powered paragliding. Usually in groups of ten or less, the fliers meet, greet, fly and land, fly and land again, and when they are ready, they sit and talk about their flights and enjoy the camaraderie, some laughs and a cold beverage. Often, the fliers will have driven more than an hour to reach the airpark. They agree that the effort is always worth the experiences which never disappoint.

“The experience of running, running and then suddenly not touching the ground is amazing,” said flier Jean Bilheux. “I have the same feeling each time I take off, excited about every flight I make.” Jim Neubert, a retired law enforcement officer and involved grandfather, agrees with Bilheux. “I soloed in December, 2006, so I have been flying almost 14 years,” recalled Neubert. “I love paramotoring for the freedom it gives. You can fly along inches above the ground or fly up thousands of feet. There are very few rules or limitations.” Neubert said he doesn’t fly for the adrenaline rush, it’s quite the opposite for him. “Flying is the most relaxing thing I do. I call it sky boating. I usually fly around 400 to 500 feet. I will drop lower if I want to see something on the ground or will climb if I want a better view. There is nothing quite like it. I usually fly with no agenda or plan. I just get up and see what piques my interest.”

By Linda Humphrey

If God has a waiting room, veteran flier Dr. Ken Strike, M.D., said he found it while suspended 2,000 feet in the air recently on his Mac Para Eden 5 over Mountain City. Strike caught a little glimpse of heaven, captured between fog and clouds. “I was wishing I could reside in that area,” said Strike, a radiation oncologist. “There are no words to describe it other than magical. If there is a waiting room for God, that is it. I just wish everyone could experience it.”

Axel Caban Fernandez came up with a logo for the group several years ago. Some may Moonshine fliers over the Monroe Life Balloon Festival, 2021.

The Moonshine Fliers Return To The Monroe Life Balloon Festival This Labor Day Weekend!

23FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE think it has to do with consuming alcohol, Fernandez said. Tennessee is known for its homegrown vegetables such as corn; corn being the most important grain crop in the state. For many decades, a select group of Tennesseans used corn to make illegal whiskey, referred to as “shine.” They would work mostly at night under the light of the moon—thus acquiring the titles of moonshine and moonshiners. Moonshine is now legal and sold throughout the state. “Some members were concerned that the name Moonshine Fliers might send a message that we were all drinkers!” said Fernandez.

“I listened to the guys talk about how they would love to fly ‘over the moon’ at night and the logo took on a different meaning. It seemed to fit. Whether we fly every day or once a week, we love sharing the sky.”

Zoraida Reyes, is currently the only female flyer in their group. She and Fernandez are married. “The feeling of that first flight was mixed between intimidating and risky and at the same time exciting,” said Reyes. “I ran and saw the mountain ground disappear under my feet, soon to feel the sensation of floating in the air as if I were inside a bubble. At that moment, I felt closer to God, the feeling I was seeking with flying.” Bilheux has been paramotoring for almost four years but thinking about flying since he was a child. He has a single-engine pilot’s license but wanted an easier way to fly. He gained interest in PPG while watching a random YouTube video. Bilheux is also a musician and has a PhD in physics. “Since I started to walk, I wanted to fly,” he said. On his bucket list is flying the Loire Valley countryside in France, his homeland, with a breathtaking view of many castles below. Strike is a serious paraglider with about 13 years of experience under his glider wing. He first heard about paramotoring on the Internet. He and Neubert are charter members of the group. When Strike was in his thirties, he had a pilot’s license but stopped flying because of a heart issue. His grandfather and father told him as a young boy to say “yes” to everything in life. “I’m not disappointed that I can’t fly planes. Paramotoring is a lot more exciting without the restrictions,” he said. Strike climbed Mount Elbert (elevation 14,433 feet) in Colorado with friends in 2019 and just recently climbed Cinnamon Pass, Lake City, Silverton, CO at an elevation of 12,640 feet. “My first flight was kind of an accident,” he recalled. “I promised my instructor if he would let me take the equipment home, I’d never try to fly without him present. About 30 minutes after I got home one day, I fired it up and was able to fly in my front yard. Like any good pilot, I crashed on landing and had to fix all my equipment so my instructor would never know. Every flight is still as thrilling as that first one. I have flown the beach and the mountains and still get excited to fly all the local fields in East Tennessee,” Strike said. Tommy Gossett, has been paramotoring for six years. The graphic designer works from his home office. “Your first several flights are probably the most exciting, as your body and brain are experiencing something you’ve only dreamed of,” Gossett said. “Talking shop with the other pilots is half of the fun for me. There is a degree of safety in numbers as well, not to mention having help if anyone has an emergency landing and needs to be picked up.”

Gossett said he has experienced five “engine outs,” which is when the engine quits while flying. “That can be concerning,” he recalled. “The first time that happened, I ran out of fuel and it was only my third flight. I was having so much fun, I forgot to get gas!”

Happy Landing by Tom

Moonshine Fliers Tommy Gossett, Bill Miller, Cody Brock, Axel. L. Caban Fernandez and his wife, Zoraida, the only female flier of the group.

Moonshine Flier, Jean Bilheux, gives young admirer, Bruce, a feel for the glider seat at Sweetwater Air Park.

Last Labor Day weekend, five members of the group made an appearance in Vonore at the 8th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Festival to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Monroe County. “We flew around the event,” said Bilheux.

Miller said he was terrified on his first flight. He felt his heart racing. “Luckily, it was a short flight and I didn’t have long to think about how I was going to get that thing back on the ground. Now, I have made more than 30 flights. I hope the thrill never goes away.”

Miller works as an instrumentation technician for the Tennessee Valley Authority. He said he flies as often as possible. “If my home chores are caught up and the weather is good, I will be in the air.” “I’ll be honest, the guys I fly with are all Type A personalities. They are not dreamers, they are doers,” Miller added. Tom Miller’s brother, Bill Miller, is also a member of the group. The youngest member of the group is Ben Garab, 22. Garab works in his family’s lawncare business and has been paramotoring since the beginning of 2020. He said, “My first flight was probably rather boring from the outside looking in. Go up, make a few gentle turns, come down and make a nice soft landing. But, from my perspective it was just the opposite. It was a scary experience— but so incredibly worth it.”

24 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

Garab’s longest flight so far was two hours. He flew 27 miles all around his home town. His top altitude is 4,000 feet. He has acquired the nickname of “Spiderman” within his fellow fliers. Cody Bock is the certified instructor within the Moonshine Fliers and owner of Smoky MTN PPG training school. Bock has been flying since 2012 and has been instructing for more than six years. Bock said there is no better way to take in those early morning sunrises and breathtaking sunsets than paragliding. “It’s been so much fun helping folks achieve their life-long dream of flight. Sharing passions with passion-minded individuals in powered paragliding is what we do,” said Bock. “Our primary goal is to make sure folks learn how to fly safely and know the laws to make this pleasant for ourselves and the community.”

Gossett agrees with those who say that the magic of flying only gets better with time. His highest altitude was 3,500 feet, but he prefers to stay under 500 feet to see the wildlife. “I can feel the wind’s subtle temperature changes, the smell of freshly cut crops, and the amount of lift change as I fly over different surfaces like water or pavement,” Gossett observed. “I have seen hundreds of deer and flown beside several groups of geese in just one evening.” Tom Miller has been a “thrill seeker all [his] life… Motorcycles mainly, but the roads are getting busier, and they are filled with drivers using phones and not paying attention,” said Miller. “Flying is a great way to get the adrenaline flowing without having to worry about getting run over.”

“The last flight was amazing as we could see the entire hot air balloon lighting.” Should Hollywood ever create a sequel to the 1965 hit film, Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines, perhaps they will visit East Tennessee and meet the Moonshine Fliers.

Labor Day Weekend September 3 & 4 Balloons, Food Trucks, Great Bands Fund Raiser for The Boys & Girls Club & Other Children’s Charities In Monroe County Cherokee Fall Festival September 10 & 11 have the opportunity to step to experience food, Cherokee crafts demonstrations, music and blacksmith will be doing on-site demonstrations in the shop both days. demonstrations and displays will Cherokee life in 1700’s and a Civil encampment. 1776 - 1843 NEW 2.7 MILLION DOLLAR EXHIBIT Advanced media technologies and electronics enhance visitors’ enjoyment of new exhibit. It portrays Cherokee life and the legacy of Sequoyah all new multi-million dollar museum. Open Year Round Mon - Sat: 9amSunday: Noon423-884-6246 seqmus@tds.net Highway 360, Vonore, Owned and Operated Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians FATHER, SOLDIER, SILVERSMITH,BLACKSMITH, STATESMAN, CREATOR OF CHEROKEE SYLLABARY.

26 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 Concert in the sanctuary of Madisonville Presbyterian Church (MPC) by Lanny and Carla Huddleston. Sunday, September 11 1:30 p.m. Both Lanny and Carla perform with the Oak Ridge Community Orchestra. Featuring a variety of genres including Scottish and Irish tunes and popular music. Free and open to the public. An MPC Bicentennial event. Madisonville Presbyterian Church HomecomingBicentennialWeekend November 5-6 On Saturday, the church will host an Open House featuring a historical display, tours, and refreshments. Musical entertainment will also be provided. For more information: www.madisonvilleprestn.org Sundays: 7am - 3pm Mon-Wed: 8am - 3pm Thurs-Sat: 7am - 8pm

57FALL 2022 FARRAGUT LIFE Circuit Court Judge Jerome Melson didn’t want me to interview him for the magazine— not because he was worried that I’d write something negative about him but because he didn’t feel he was interesting enough to merit a piece. He neither wanted nor needed the spotlight. Eventually, we got him to agree to the interview, and I arranged a time to meet at the courthouse. When I arrived, he smiled and greeted me in his softspoken voice before leading me to his office. In one of his cabinets, he had a box of Tootsie Pops to give to children in adoption cases, which he described as one of the most rewarding aspects of his job—uniting children with loving parents. Jerome Melson is a circuit court judge in Knoxville. He was appointed by Governor Bill Lee in 2021. He deals mostly in civil lawsuits, not criminal ones. This includes, for example, malpractice lawsuits against physicians, discrimination lawsuits against companies, and a wide variety of personal injury and contract claims. I asked him how he became a judge and he said, “I was a lawyer first. I practiced here in Knoxville and East Tennessee since 1988.” When an opening for this position appeared, Melson felt like, after his long career in law, he had something to offer by serving his community as a judge. He applied along with several other candidates—who he emphasized were very competent and qualified—and he was chosen by Bill Lee for the job. It is a “high privilege,” Melson said. When I inquired about what he wanted to accomplish in this position, he said that he wanted to “faithfully apply the law” and diligently manage the docket in what is a busy court. Next, I asked about the most difficult part of his job. Melson explained that the most difficult part was the sheer volume of information judges need to know for every case. He pointed to a stack of papers larger than the Bible that he needed to read by Monday in order to make a single decision. He said he always does his best, as each case he oversees can drastically affect someone’s life. I could tell he took this responsibility very seriously. “What are qualities someone needs to be a good judge?” I asked. Melson chuckled, saying that he’d just started and some of the more experienced judges might know better. But he promised to answer as well as he could. “You’ve got to be a good administrator, respectful of the time of the jurors,” he said. “You’ve got to be good at explaining things to them, guiding a jury through that process.” Other qualities he mentioned were, “Diligence, patience, courtesy, and a commitment to the rule of law.” He also added compassion, saying, “I think this job is making me a more compassionate person.” Judge Melson said, “The rule of law is of paramount importance in any healthy democratic government, and so from the founding of this country to the present, there’s always been a need for court systems to adjudicate disputes between citizens in a manner that treats everyone equally under the law. Over the generations of this country’s history, we have had many periods when the courts have been called upon to address very serious disputes, and our democracy and the integrity of our republic have benefited greatly from competent trial judges. I strive to be one of those.”

Even with mountains of paperwork on his desk, he still took the time before our interview to get to know me. We chatted about our favorite books, and he asked me for some recommendations on what to read. Likewise, I left the interview with a list of authors he suggested I check out. Altogether, he struck me as a kind, humble man. As I was leaving, Melson asked me not to make this piece too long, and if I started writing and realized it wasn’t interesting enough, I could just scrap it.

“It’s the job that’s the story,” he said, “not me.”

I’m sorry, Mr. Melson, but I have to disagree.

Jerome Melson is well-spoken, like any good lawyer, but what struck me most in our interview was his warmth and friendliness.

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE Jerome Melson

28 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

29FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE Polly Harrison Happy Fall ! SERVING BUYERS AND SELLERS IN MONROE COUNTY AND SURROUDING AREAS. C: (865) 776-5588 O: (423) 519-3258 Polly@Lakefrontliving.com Lakefrontliving.com/TN REALTOR® 1 John 4:9 Drivers who switched to Allstate saved an average of $718.* How much could you save? Many factors go into the cost of your auto insurance policy, including how you purchase the policy: online, through a call center, or with an agent. Subject to terms, conditions, and availability. Not applicable in CA. *Average annual auto insurance savings reported by new customers surveyed who saved with Allstate in 2019. Allstate Fire & Casualty Ins. Co. Allstate Vehicle & Property Ins. Co. & aﬃliates: 2775 Sanders Rd Northbrook IL 60062. © 2022 Allstate Insurance Co. 15645250 GRAY, GEORGE 423-337-3325 675 New Hwy 68 Suite D Sweetwater georgegray@allstate.com Quality car insurance is available at a lower rate than you might think. In fact, drivers who saved money by switching to Allstate saved an average of $718. Switch today. Call me to learn more!

30 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

The Tennessee Overhill publishes a book on the complete history of the “Old Line Railroad” for a copy call the Overhill 423-2637232. For train tickets and more information call Kelly at the L&N Railroad Museum in Etowah 423-263-7232 or TVRail.com.

By Nancy A. Dalton, Tennessee Overhill

The Hiwassee River has its headwaters on the north slope of the Rocky Mountain in northern Georgia. It flows northward into North Carolina before turning westward into Tennessee, flowing into the Tennessee River a few miles west. The river is about 147 miles long. It is dammed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in four locations, Chatuge Dam, Hiwassee Dam, Mission Dam & Apalachia Dam. Water is diverted from the stream bed at Apalachia Dam and sent through a pipeline, which is tunneled through the mountains for eight miles; then it flows through the Apalachia Dam and Apalachia Powerhouse to generate electricity. The John Muir Trail in Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest goes along this part of the Hiwassee River. The 23 mile stretch of river that flows from North Carolina/Tennessee state line to U.S. Hwy 411 near Delano, TN is designated as a Tennessee State Scenic River. After exiting the mountains through a spectacular gorge, the Hiwassee broadens, meandering through rural southeast Tennessee. Many marshes and wetlands surround the main channel, providing rich habitats for wildlife and opportunities for hunting and fishing. You can also view the beautiful Hiwassee River and gorge and the Apalachia Dam on the scenic train excursion “Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad”, the most scenic excursion in this part of the country. The train travels alongside the Hiwassee and circles around the famous “Hiwassee Loop”. The Loop corkscrews up the mountain passing over a bridge 62 feet above the tracks on which the train just traveled. This is truly a unique railroad experience and has several features that set it apart. The Loop is one of the most unique railroad structures in the nation. It is reputed to be the third longest rail loop in the world. The train travels across the “Old Line”, a rail that was carved into the mountains and river gorge in 1890 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Hiwassee River Gorge is another striking feature. Tucked into a wilderness area, this natural wonder is only accessible by rail. This gorge has received the USDA National Forest’s highest ranking for scenic beauty.

31FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE

The Tennessee Overhill along with TVRail offer two train trips; one is a half day trip (Hiwassee Loop) traveling around the Loop and Farner, TN, then returning. The Copperhill Special, day trip, takes the same route but after Farner continues into Copperhill/ McCaysville at the Tennessee/Georgia state line where passengers have a stopover for dining and shopping. All trips begin at the loading stations in Delano, TN on Hwy 411.

Hiwassee River& the Scenic Railroad

T By Gayle MASTERGARDNERFisher

Elaeagnus

he fall light has been beautiful lately; mornings are dawning soft and golden with the sun at a lower angle. The moon at night is a florescent white which makes sitting on the porch after the day has cooled down a pleasant pastime. I am still waiting for the rain. I have mums that have dropped blooms sitting in pots that are not planted. I have a rule that I cannot buy new plants until the old ones are in the ground. I am so glad that I did plant Elaeagnus about three years ago; it blooms in October. Its sweet smell fits in with the fall season and dry weather. Common Elaeagnus called Silverberry is deciduous, but most cultivars that you will find today are evergreens. The plants that I have are silver-green, but you will also find elaeagnus in variegated forms of yellow or pure silver. If you purchase one of the variegated cultivars, you will need to prune out any growth that reverts to its nonvariegated color. Some of the beautiful varieties available to us today are ‘Gilt Edge’, ‘Maculata’, ‘Frederici’, and ‘Limelight’. A native to Asia, Elaeagnus grows wild in thickets and dry places. This thorny evergreen has an erratic growth pattern and produces fronds similar to forsythia. It makes a great ungainly thicket of a hedge and needs frequent pruning unless you start out by giving them lots of room. Small one-gallon pots can grow to cover a ten-foot square in a few years. Without pruning it rapidly can become a rigid, sprawling, angular shrub. The back of the leaves are crinkly and uneven with a silver blush. They are not as dramatic as glossy evergreens, but in autumn the tiny blooms give a sweet smell from the bell-like flowers. Bees love the nectar of this plant, and birds love the fruit. Another added plus for choosing this plant is that it prefers poor, infertile soil. I have a garden structure that needs the back covered. When I told a friend about my plan, she asked why I didn’t plant hydrangeas, since they are so pretty. I explained that I wanted the structure to disappear not draw attention to it. This plant is my choice since it grows quickly; it is not showy so your eye will not be drawn to it. Once established, Elaeagnus can tolerate problems such as wind, heat and drought. They prefer full sun but can do well in partial shade. Pest and disease include canker, dieback, and rust, also fungal leaf spot and root rot can occur. Another member of this family is Russian Olive, E.angustifolia. A few years ago while touring a Plantation in Charleston, a wonderful sweet aroma kept tickling my nose. I had a hard time identifying where the fragrance was coming from because the blooms are so small. This deciduous shrub or tree blooms in the summer. It has willow-like lance shaped leaves with spiny branches. This Russian Olive is another plant I would love to have if I can only find a location; maybe out by the garden or down at the pond. Leaves have started turning. Nights are cooling off. Silage has been cut and the walnuts and acorn crops are abundant this year. Slow down and smell the Elaeagnus and wait for the rain.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

Location: Cora Veal Senior Center

USE OF IMAGES Artists agree to allow MACA use of images produced during the event, to include photographs of artists painting and completed works.

Monroe County Chamber of Commerce 520 Cook Street Suite A Madisonville TN 37354

PLEIN AIR - PAINT OUT WHAT IS PLEIN AIR? PLEIN AIR IS A FRENCH TERM FOR PAINTING IN THE OUTDOORS. MONET, VAN GOGH AND RENOIR ARE EXAMPLES OF FAMOUS PAINTERS WHO PAINTED “EN PLEIN AIR”. COME AND PAINT THE BEAUTY OF MONROE COUNTY IN EAST TENNESSEE VOTING & WET PAINT SALE

PEOPLE’S CHOICE Only stamped canvases can be considered for People’s Choice votes. All submitted pieces must be labeled with the artist's name, title, medium, and price. MACA reserves the right to exclude works not properly prepared for display. PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNERS Images of artwork will remain on the monroearts.com website for one calendar year unless otherwise requested by the artist.

This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SLFRP5534 awarded ARTIST CHECK-IN MACA OFFICE

THURSDAY September 15 (8 am – 5 pm) FRIDAY September 16 (8 am – 5 pm) SATURDAY September 17 (8 am – 12 pm)

ARTISTS’ RECEPTION Saturday September 17 (6 pm – 8)

PEOPLE’S CHOICE Voting for People’s Choice will be accomplished throughout the Wet Paint Sale/ Exhibit (9/17 -9/24 @ noon) and Announced on the MACA website. Artists may choose to have their artwork remain on display at the Cora Veal Senior Center until noon Saturday, September 24th.

The event will take place rain or shine, so please be prepared. CHECK-IN All artists must check in at the MACA office located in the Monroe County Chamber of Commerce Bldg. All painting surfaces must be stamped at check-in prior to painting. Maximum allowed surface size is 16x20”. Each piece must be started and completed “En Plein Air”, with nothing pre-painted or pre-drawn. Artists may stamp an unlimited number of canvases/surfaces. Up to three pieces may be submitted for People’s Choice voting. Artists may display and sell unlimited pieces. Artists must provide their own display system, easels, and/or tables. Artists must let MACA know in advance the amount of space their exhibit of artwork will require. Not to exceed: 10’ X 10’.

UNSOLD ARTWORK All artworks must be picked up after the week of viewing (9.24 @ noon). Remaining artwork will become the property of MACA. Artists may donate unsold artwork to MACA for future fundraisers.

GUIDELINES PAINTING AREA Artists may paint any subject or scene outdoors he/she chooses within the 50- mile radius of Madisonville TN, including the towns of Sweetwater, Tellico Plains, and Vonore. The sites must be accessible to the public and should not impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic. Artists are expected to maintain complete respect for private venues and ask owner’s permission for private properties.

SCHEDULE

PAINTING CHECK-IN Saturday September 17 (8 am – 2 pm)

PROCEEDS - WET PAINT SALE

The artists will retain 100% of the amount they collect from items sold. MACA will NOT handle/collect any monies.

Location: Cora Veal Senior Center

Mexican Sage Salvia

have lots of sages in my garden. Some I have grown and enjoyed over the years like my Anise Scented Salvia. This year I have several new ones. I mentioned to my neighbor that I love salvias because they were so carefree and the hummingbirds and bees love them. Weeks later she surprised me with a gift: a box of Salvia plants. Included was the old favorite that your grandmother grew, Scarlet sage or red salvia. In addition she gifted me Texas sage a pink bloomer and pineapple sage, which is yellow leafed salvia that has the smell of pineapple when the leaves are crushed. My Black and Blue plants have been blooming since June. The masterpiece which I am most excited about is Mexican salvia, leucantha. Salvia is quite a large genus of plants that includes annuals, perennials, and even shrubs. There are more than 1,000 species in the genus, many of which carry the common name “sage” and dozens of which are garden plants we enjoy. The Salvia genus fits into the mint (Lamiaceae) family of plants and predictably, many of these species have a strong, pleasant scent, making them attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. While most salvia species are technically perennials, some of the most popular are more often planted as annuals in colder regions. The majority of salvia plants are known for their long bloom period, which sometimes can extend from late spring all the way into fall. These plants are guaranteed to inject dependable color into your garden design. My Mexican salvia is more commonly known as Mexican bush sage, Mexican sage, purple velvet and velvet sage. The blossoms are unusually attractive and profuse, making this salvia a favorite for late-season container gardens. They have velvety, grayish-green leaves. It has a shrubby growth habit, and blooms for us from late summer until frost. Like I said earlier hummingbirds love this plant. It is blooming at the right time for them to feed on before they start their migration. Hummingbirds need lots of calories in the fall. Mexican sage is an evergreen perennial, but not in our area. It winters in zones 8-10, but we are zone 6, so our winter will kill it.

By Gayle MASTERGARDNERFisher I

Native to Central America, it is probably the most beautiful salvia plant you’ll see thanks to its stunning purple flowers and height. I am amazed that it’s a close relative to culinary sage. Yes, that little herb that is prized for its strong aroma and earthy flavor. We use it in savory recipes and it is a common ingredient in holiday stuffing. This culinary herb is sold both fresh and dried and is available year-round. Even though Mexican sage won’t be on the table this Thanksgiving your stuffing will have a close family member.

35FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE MEMBER BENEFITS OTHER BENEFITS INCLUDE: 20% discount at Choice Hotels • 10% discount on Enterprisecar rentals* Discounts at Dollywood, Splash Country and Biltmore* Discounts on other major electronics, travel, health, security and apparel products $500 Bonus Cash on Eligible Ford, Lincoln, Mercury Models • Farm Bureau Insurance • Auto, Home & Life • Farm Bureau Health Plans • Farm Bureau Tax Service • Tennessee Livestock Producers • Identity Theft, Restoration & Consultation MAD I SONV I LL E : 423-442-20 11 • SWEET WATER : 423-337-900 1

36 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022THESE RECIPES ARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY INGLES, STARTED IN 1963 BY ROBERT P. INGLE AND COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE. 2022-2023 TOOLS FOR SCHOOLS SHOP AND GET EQUIPMENTSCHOOLFREELINKYOURADVANTAGE CARD TO YOUR FAVORITE SCHOOL NOW! Use The Ingles Advantage™ Card and help your local school. When you make purchases using The Ingles Advantage™ Card, Ingles will give back to the school a portion of those sales. The portion can be used by the school to purchase computers and school supplies. Over the past 20 years, Ingles Markets has contributed over 17 million dollars to schools in towns where Ingles stores are located. These dollars have been used for valuable learning tools and equipment. Public schools, private schools and home school associations are welcome to participate in this program, grades K-12. Ingles and our Tools for School program are committed to helping thousands of schools and students achieve their education goals. 17 MILLION DOLLARS OVER THE PAST 20 YEARS! INGLES….EXPECT MORE FROM YOUR LOCAL STORE. Present The Ingles Advantage™ card to the cashier before they begin to ring up your order. Ask the cashier to scan your card. Your purchase amount is electronically recorded for your school. It's that easy! Programshttps://www.ingles-markets.com/icurbsideRunsfromAugust4th,2022toJune30,2023

37FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE Shoppinghttps://www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/roasted-butternut-squash-and-apple-bisqueList8 oz. of diced yellow onion 6 oz. of diced carrots 6 oz. of diced celery 1 lb. of butternut squash 2 qts. of apple cider 1 pint of heavy cream 4 oz. of butter 1 oz. fresh oregano (minced) ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND APPLE BISQUE

The Chef's Kitchen Instructions Cut butternut squash in half lengthwise. Drizzle olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place in a 350 degrees F oven for 45 minutes or until tender. Scoop out flesh and set aside. In a stock pot saute onions, carrots, and celery. Deglaze pan with apple cider and bring to a rolling boil. Add butternut squash. With an emersion wand or blender, blend all ingredients together and return to pot on medium-low heat. Add heavy cream and let thicken. Finish the soup with butter and oregano.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/pumpkin-polenta-with-roasted-vegetables The Chef's Kitchen Shopping List 4 slices bacon 1 Tbsp butter 1 leek 2 cloves of garlic 2 Tbsp flour 2 cup milk 4 cup chicken stock 3/4 lb red potatoes 6 sprigs of thyme 2 cup chicken 1 cup corn Instructions Render bacon and remove and reserve grease. Sweat butter, leeks and garlic. Add flour and make a roux. Add milk, stock, and potatoes and bring to a boil, then reduce. Cook until potatoes are tender. Add the rest of the ingredients. CHICKENROTISSERIEANDPOTATOCHOWDER Shopping List 1/2 lb Brussel sprouts 1/2 lb butternut squash 1/2 lb parsnips 4 cup water PUMPKIN POLENTA WITH ROASTED VEGETABLES 2 cup milk 1 cup polenta 1 can pumpkin 3/4 cup Parmesan 2 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp sage Instructions Preheat 400 degree oven. Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt and pepper and roast until golden brown. Bring water and milk to a simmer. Whisk in polenta and bring to a boil then reduce heat. Stir until creamy. Whisk in pumpkin. Remove from heat. Add Parmesan, butter, and sage. Drizzle olive oil and assemble. The Chef's Kitchen www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/rotisserie-chicken-and-potato-chowder

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/beef-marabella

The Chef's Kitchen Shopping List 3/4 cup milk 3/4 cup water 1/2 cup sugar 1 tsp salt 2 eggs beaten 1 Tbsp + 2 tsp yeast 5 cup AP flour 1/2 cup melted butter

BEEFShoppingMARABELLAList

Instructions

1-3 pound beef tenderloin 1 qt white wine 1 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup red wine vinegar 1/2 cup olive oil 1 cup Spanish olives 1/2 cup capers 1 cup figs 1/4 cup dried oregano 1/4 cup garlic 1/2 bunch parsley 5 bay leaves Serves: 6 Marinate meat by adding capers, olives, red wine vinegar, garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, parsley, bay leaf, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, and prunes.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/perfect-rolls

Bring marinade to a boil, and cool down before adding to meat. Let meat refrigerate overnight.

The

Cook for 2 hours at 350 degrees F.

Instructions Preheat 350 degree oven. Bloom yeast for 10 mins in water, milk, and butter. DO NOT EXCEED 120 degrees. Add salt to the bottom of the bowl.Add flour then the rest of the ingredients. Dough hook for about 8 minutes. Let proof 1 1/2 hours. Punch dough and form. Double in size and bake. Chef's Kitchen PERFECT ROLLS

40 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 Shopping List Butternut squash 1 package of quinoa 1 cup cranberries 1 bag kale 1 can chickpeas 3 oranges 1 Tbsp olive oil Instructions Cut and roast butternut squash until fork tender in a 350 degree oven. Cook quinoa according to package. While quinoa is still warm add kale, chickpeas, and cranberries. Juice the oranges in the quinoa stir in olive oil. Stuff butternut squash and serve. BUTTERNUTSTUFFEDSQUASH The Chef's Kitchen The Chef's Kitchen Shopping List 1 package of crepes 1 tub cool whip 9 oz. dark chocolate 1 1/2 cup heavy cream 6 oz undiluted orange juice 1/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/4 tsp. salt Instructions Heat heavy cream and place into bowl. Mix heavy cream with chocolate. Add salt, and undiluted orange concentrate to the mixture in bowl. Paint chocolate mix onto crepe, and add another on top. Separate crepes with whip cream, and chocolate. Continue adding desired amount of crepe layers. Place into the refrigerator overnight. Crepe Cake www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/stuffed-butternut-squashcrepe-cake

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2317 US-411 South | Maryville, TN 37801 | (865) 238-5338www.cloverhillseniorliving.comAll-inclusivemonthlyratestructure ∙ Long-term care and veterans benefits gladly accepted 24-hour dedicated caregivers and nursing staff State-of-the-art Assisted Living with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related Memory Care available ∙ Complete array of in-house services & amenities SCHEDULE A PERSONAL TOUR OF OUR COMMUNITY TODAY!

products are used by our customers. Fireplace Mantles

Two special pieces of furniture just came on the floor for sale. The above picture features a dining table made from a large slab of maple wood with liquid copper epoxy that runs throughout the dining tabletop that meets in the center. The other unusually large piece is a pub table made from a sycamore tree. Our customers continue to request small side tables to set their television remotes, drinks, etc. on. Based on these discussions, we have increased our inventory of small tables. We are also adding new pieces of other furniture 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. Our inventory of home décor also includes 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. Sofa, & Décor carved bowls, and antiques. Supply Needs We provide specialized wood building products that includes mantels, doors meet our customers’ needs. visit our showroom see wood

Building

how our

O FALL 2021 MONROE LIFE Coffee,

Our customers continue to request small side tables discussions, we have increased our inventory of Our inventory of home décor also includes charcuterie painted shades, and antiques that blend well with We continue to o er wood slabs for customers to custom-made barn-wood style doors, mantels, live ne of the favor times of the year for Deborah, and Danny McFalls, owners of Everhart Lumber Company, is the Fall Season. The Fall season brings the warm yellow, red, orange, and brown outdoor colors to East Tennessee.

Side Tables Charcuterie Trays Barnwood Doors Home

Please

Lumber Company LLC www.everhart-lumber.com STORE HOURS Tuesday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00 Saturday 9:00 - 2:00 877.857.8062C. | 423.253.2323O. 911 HIGHWAY 165, TELLICO PLAINS, TN 37385 Company,andmadeyellow,isthatisa

Items trays,

FALL 2021 MONROE LIFE Coffee, Sofa, & Side Tables Charcuterie Trays Barnwood Doors Home Décor Items trays, carved bowls, and antiques. Building Supply Needs We provide specialized wood building products that includes mantels, doors to meet our customers’ needs. Please visit our showroom to see how our wood products are used by our customers. Fireplace Mantles

Fair Trade means that your purchase does good, and you can feel good about that.

168WARREN ST, MADISONVILLE MASON FURNITURE & APPLIANCES423.442.294074

Mayor: Glenn Moser City Alderman: James Bledsoe, Fred Cagle, Augusta Davis, Linda Hensley and Susan Saunders

Mayor Recorder Board Members

CITY HALL: 423.442.9416

Mayor: Augusta Davis Board Members: Fred Cagle Edward Dawson, Linda Hensley, Scott Hunt, Nancy Franklin Mayor: Glenn Moser City Recorder: Sherri McCrary Alderman: James Bledsoe, Fred Cagle, Augusta Davis, Linda Hensley and Susan Saunders

Recorder : Sherri McCrary

CITY HALL: 423.442.9416

BUTCHER SHOP Taste the Difference No Steroids No Hormones ALL NATURAL

Tour Beautiful Homes While

The Home Tour sales from the tickets will be donated to charity. Last year, the tour raised approximately $19,000, and around 500 guests attended. FROM 1PM TO 4:30PM. Raising Money for Charity

On November 6, the General Federation of Women’s Club - Tellico Village will be holding their 26th annual Home Tour which will raise money for local charities. Beginning September 1st, you can buy tickets for $16 from their website. On the self-guided tour, guests can visit four gorgeous homes in Tellico Village and Rarity Bay, all culminating in a reception at the Yacht Club. It begins at 1pm and lasts until 4:30pm. This is a great way to get inspiration and ideas for decorating and remodeling your own home, and each house you visit will have a hostess who can answer questions about the design and decoration. At the Yacht Club, visitors can meet with sponsors who donated to the event and ask them questions on home décor, landscaping, and finance. This is the first tour with houses from Rarity Bay. “It’s a fun day,” said the event’s publicity chairman, Nancy Gregg. “Whether it’s a couple or whether it’s a group of ladies, they seem to have a wonderful time going through together—getting new ideas and enjoying a day when they can be out and about.”

For More Information: gfwctellico.org NOVEMBER 6

Our new website is the best place to keep up with articles and stories between issues so you never miss a beat of what’s going on in our community. No matter if you’re using a phone, tablet, or desktop, our new website is fully optimized to make reading our content as easy as possible. We also publish full versions of our print magazines online the same day they’re being delivered to homes! Never Miss an Issue Read Monroe Life Online! Features Everyone Can Enjoy • Read online exclusive articles • Online articles are published regularly between issues • Read full digital magazines at any time - even archived issues • Download copies of our magazine at any time • Get access to online recipes from Ingles Table • Keep up with events in our community published online We Also Made The Website Better For Businesses • Track CTR and conversions that come from your ad in Monroe Life • Digital copies of the magazine can link to your website • Featured articles will appear in more places throughout the site • Print Advertisers get special pricing for online ads WWW.MONROELIFE.COM

53FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE November 12 at 5:30 p.m. Cemetery in Englewood Museum at 423-887-5455 for more information.

55FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE Isaiah 117 House is a local 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization providing care for children awaiting foster placement. Currently, when a child is removed in a location without an Isaiah 117 House, the child must wait in an office. The child is often dirty, hungry, tired, scared, and unable to bring any personal possessions. Isaiah 117 House exists to provide for that child’s needs, whatever they may be, in these critical moments between removal and placement. We believe God wants to send the message to every child being placed into the foster care system that they are not alone! As we continue our journey, we need continued support from our community! 2022 GOLF TOURNAMENT Come Tee Off With Us! Questions: knoxtngolf@isaiah117house.com SPONSOR INFORMATION Title Sponsor - $5,000 Three (3) Four-Man Golf Teams Large Banner at Clubhouse Social Media Recognition Hole Sponsor Sign Advocate Sponsor - $2,500 Two (2) Four-Man Golf Teams Banner at Clubhouse Social Media Recognition Hole Sponsor Sign Partner Sponsor - $1,000 One (1) Four-Man Golf Team Logo on SocialClubhouseSponsorshipBannerMediaRecognitionHoleSponsorSign Team Sponsor - $500 One (1) Four-Man Golf Team Hole Sponsor Sign Hole Sponsor - $250 Hole Sponsor Sign 700 Turnberry Circle, Lenoir City, TN 37772 SCHEDULE: 8:00 am - Registration 9:00 am - Shotgun start 1:00 pm - Lunch & awards EVENT INCLUDES: Golf, Lunch, On-Course Refreshments Premium Logo Giveaways Prizes for contests while at the course Premium Door Prizes Prizes for top 3 teams AVALON GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Friday, September 23rd!

56 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

530 South Main Street Sweetwater, TN 37874 (423) 337-7003

59FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE Before After your landscape edging needs. Call ustodayfor a FREEESTIMATE or go online for more information www.volunteercurbappeal.com volunteercurbappealtn@gmail.com (865)318-1484 •Aproven solution to landscape edging •Continuous concrete edging, same concept as a curb on the street •Keeps mulch,rock, orstraw contained in beds and off sidewalk and driveways •Cheaper than rock and sandstone •Does not fall over or break like conventional landscape edging •A wide variety of colors and designs make it an exciting process for homeowners Are you TIRED of landscape edging around your yard that FALLS DOWN or DOESN’T CONTAIN your mulch or rock? Volunteer Curb Appeal offers a permanent, beautiful solution to this problem!

60 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

62 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022

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Sharron@JenkinsRealty.com 5588 Hwy. 360, Tellico Plains, TN 37385 423.253-3526 CHARLES HALL MUSEUM AND HERITAGE CENTER

getaway,aweddingorhoneymoon,afamily

Local handcrafted items and souvenirs in their gift shops!! gateway to the Cherohala Skyway and the Cherokee National Forest. Here in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, a simpler way of life prevails. Enjoy the bakery and the other shops town that sell fine arts, crafts and furnishings. There are plenty of restaurants and places to stay. TO TELLICO PLAINS

A local historian and collector since Charles also served as mayor of Tellico Plains for 31 years. Showcased in two museum buildings are his magnificent collections of historical local pictures and documents, antique telephones, guns, Native American artifacts, coin and currency collections, a moonshine still, a 1922 Model T Ford telephone repair truck and so much more. Open Daily: 10am–5pm, Admission: Free 229 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.8000 charleshallmuseum@hotmail.com www.charleshallmuseum.com

70 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 JENKINS REALTY property with Sharron Jenkins, experienced Realtor® for over the most America. We’ll planet with creeks leading gulf. We offer log cabins in the in the valleys. And if you sell, find the very best buyers for you. Sharron@JenkinsRealty.com 5588 Hwy. 360, Tellico Plains, TN 37385 423.253-3526 CHARLES HALL MUSEUM AND HERITAGE CENTER

CHEROHALA SKYWAY VISITOR CENTER forseveralcouplesorextendedfamilies.Our cabinsareprivateandcomfortable,eachtotally unique.Achangeinaltitudecreatesachange inattitude! 206CherohalaSkyway,866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com TheBookshelf TheBookshelfisaquaintlittlebookshopin theHistoricDistrictjustofftheTownSquare. Celebrating15yearsasMonroeCounty’sonly full-servicebookstore,theyoffernewlocal historybooksandgentlyusedbooksinall categories.Theirfriendlyandknowledgeable staffalsooffersfreeout-of-printbooksearches. Hours:Tuesday–Saturday:10am-5pm 108ScottStreet,423.253.3183 www.tellicobookshelf.com FindusonFacebook Jenkins Realty Co. Find your perfect property with Sharron Jenkins, an experienced Realtor® for over 30 years. (423) 253-3526 5588Hwy.360,TellicoPlains,TN37385 Sharron@JenkinsRealty.com www.JenkinsRealty.com Come discover the most beautifully biodiverse area in America. We’ll help you find your place on the planet in the East Tennessee mountains with creeks and meadows and a chain of lakes leading to the rivers flowing down to the gulf. We offer log cabins in the forest and farms in the valleys. And if you want to sell, we can find the very best buyers for you!

JENKINS REALTY COMPANY property with Sharron Jenkins, experienced Realtor® for over the most America. We’ll planet in with creeks leading gulf. We offer log cabins in the in the valleys. And if you want to sell, we can find the very best buyers for you.

Alocalhistorianandcollectorsinceboyhood, Charles also served as mayor of Tellico Plains for 31 years. Showcased in two museum buildings are his magnificent collections of historical local pictures and documents, antique telephones, guns, Native American artifacts, coin and currency collections, a moonshine still, a 1922 Model T Ford telephone repair truck and

so much more. Open Daily: 10am–5pm, Admission: Free 229 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.8000 charleshallmuseum@hotmail.com www.charleshallmuseum.com Local handcrafted items and souvenirs in their gift shops!! The gateway to the Cherohala Skyway and the Cherokee National Forest.HereinthefoothillsoftheSmokyMountains,asimplerway oflifeprevails.Enjoythebakeryandtheothershopsintownthatsell fine arts, crafts and furnishings. There are plenty of restaurants and places to stay. WELCOME TO TELLICO PLAINS CHEROHALA SKYWAY VISITOR CENTER The Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains is a “must stop” before starting up the Skyway. Come by between 9am and 5pm daily for free maps of the Skyway and Cherokee National Forest, Skyway driving conditions and local area souvenirs and gifts. Picnic tables and spotless restrooms are also available, with friendly staff waiting to welcome you with important Skyway and area information! 225 Cherohala Skyway 423.253.8010 www.cherohala.org TELLICOPLAINS Welcome To CherohalaSkywayVisitorCenter TheCherohalaSkywayVisitorCenterinTellico Plainsisa“muststop”beforestartingupthe Skyway.Comebybetween9amand5pmdaily forfreemapsoftheSkywayandCherokee NationalForest,Skywaydrivingconditions andlocalareasouvenirsandgifts.Picnictables andspotlessrestroomsarealsoavailable,with friendlystaffwaitingtowelcomeyouwith importantSkywayandareainformation! 225CherohalaSkyway, 423.253.8010 www.cherohala.org CharlesHallMuseumandHeritageCenter Alocalhistorianandcollectorsinceboyhood, CharlesalsoservedasmayorofTellicoPlainsfor 31years.Showcasedintwomuseumbuildings arehismagnificentcollectionsofhistoricallocal picturesanddocuments,antiquetelephones, guns,NativeAmericanartifacts,coinandcurrency collections,amoonshinestill,a1922ModelTFord telephonerepairtruckandsomuchmore. CherohalaSkywayFestival-October23,2021 OpenDaily:10am–5pm,Admission:Free 229CherohalaSkyway,423-253-8000, charleshallmuseum@hotmail.com www.charleshallmusuem.com You will also find local handcrafted items and souvenirs in their gift shops! ThegatewaytotheCherohalaSkyway andtheCherokeeNationalForest.Here inthefoothillsoftheSmokyMountains, asimplerwayoflifeprevails.Enjoythe bakeryandtheothershopsintown thatsellfinearts,craftsandfurnishings. Thereareplentyofrestaurantsand placestostay. www.tellico-plains.com

TellicoVacationRentals Savortheserenityofyourowncabininthe mountains!Choosefromoneto thatssleepsfromtwototenguests.Select acabinwithahottubonthedeck,acozy stone ﬁ room.Ourcabinsareidealforaromantic vacationorreunion.Withyourownkitchen, multiplebedrooms,comfortablelivingareas andoutdoordecks,you’ll tobeafabulousvalueforextendedvacations forseveralcouplesorextendedfamilies.Our cabinsareprivateandcomfortable,eachtotally unique.Achangeinaltitudecreatesachange inattitude! 206CherohalaSkyway,866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com

The Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains is a “must stop” before starting up the Skyway. Come by between 9am and 5pm daily for free maps of the Skyway and Cherokee National Forest, Skyway driving conditions and local area souvenirs and gifts. Picnic tables and spotless restrooms are also available, with friendly staff waiting to welcome you with important Skyway and area information! 225 Cherohala Skyway 423.253.8010 www.cherohala.org TELLICOPLAINS Welcome To CherohalaSkywayVisitorCenter TheCherohalaSkywayVisitorCenterinTellico Plainsisa“muststop”beforestartingupthe Skyway.Comebybetween9amand5pmdaily forfreemapsoftheSkywayandCherokee NationalForest,Skywaydrivingconditions andlocalareasouvenirsandgifts.Picnictables andspotlessrestroomsarealsoavailable,with friendlystaffwaitingtowelcomeyouwith importantSkywayandareainformation! 225CherohalaSkyway, 423.253.8010 www.cherohala.org CharlesHallMuseumandHeritageCenter Alocalhistorianandcollectorsinceboyhood, CharlesalsoservedasmayorofTellicoPlainsfor 31years.Showcasedintwomuseumbuildings arehismagnificentcollectionsofhistoricallocal picturesanddocuments,antiquetelephones, guns,NativeAmericanartifacts,coinandcurrency collections,amoonshinestill,a1922ModelTFord telephonerepairtruckandsomuchmore. CherohalaSkywayFestival-October23,2021 OpenDaily:10am–5pm,Admission:Free 229CherohalaSkyway,423-253-8000, charleshallmuseum@hotmail.com www.charleshallmusuem.com You will also find local handcrafted items and souvenirs in their gift shops! ThegatewaytotheCherohalaSkyway andtheCherokeeNationalForest.Here inthefoothillsoftheSmokyMountains, asimplerwayoflifeprevails.Enjoythe bakeryandtheothershopsintown thatsellfinearts,craftsandfurnishings. Thereareplentyofrestaurantsand placestostay. www.tellico-plains.com TellicoVacationRentals Savortheserenityofyourowncabininthe mountains!Choosefromoneto thatssleepsfromtwototenguests.Select acabinwithahottubonthedeck,acozy stone room.Ourcabinsareidealforaromantic getaway,aweddingorhoneymoon,afamily vacationorreunion.Withyourownkitchen, multiplebedrooms,comfortablelivingareas andoutdoordecks,you’ll tobeafabulousvalueforextendedvacations

The

WELCOME

TheBookshelf TheBookshelfisaquaintlittlebookshopin theHistoricDistrictjustofftheTownSquare. Celebrating15yearsasMonroeCounty’sonly full-servicebookstore,theyoffernewlocal historybooksandgentlyusedbooksinall categories.Theirfriendlyandknowledgeable staffalsooffersfreeout-of-printbooksearches. Hours:Tuesday–Saturday:10am-5pm 108ScottStreet,423.253.3183 www.tellicobookshelf.com FindusonFacebook Jenkins Realty Co. Find your perfect property with Sharron Jenkins, an experienced Realtor® for over 30 years. (423) 253-3526 5588Hwy.360,TellicoPlains,TN37385 Sharron@JenkinsRealty.com www.JenkinsRealty.com Come discover the most beautifully biodiverse area in America. We’ll help you find your place on the planet in the East Tennessee mountains with creeks and meadows and a chain of lakes leading to the rivers flowing down to the gulf. We offer log cabins in the forest and farms in the valleys. And if you want to sell, we can find the very best buyers for you!

your own

friendly,

418 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.6145 email: info@easttennnrealty.com www.tellicomountainrealty.com

aromanticgetaway,aweddingorhoney-

and successful. Call today 423.253.7100. Email us

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 10am-5pm 108 Scott Street, 423.253.3183 www.tellicobookshelf.com Facebook TELLICO VACATION RENTALS the serenity of your own cabin in the mountains! Choose from one to five bedrooms that sleeps from two to ten guests. Select a cabin with a hot tub on the deck, a cozy stone fireplace or a pool table in the game room. Our cabins are ideal for a romantic getaway, a wedding or honeymoon, a family vacation or reunion. With your own kitchen, multiple bedrooms, comfortable living areas and outdoor decks, you’ll find cabin rentals to be a fabulous value for extended vacations for several couples or extended families. Our cabins are private and comfortable, each totally unique. A change in altitude creates a change in attitude!

Savor

TELLICO MOUNTAIN REALTY Helping you make our hometown your hometown. Stop by and see one of our seasoned agents with expertise in our historic and scenic area.

www.tellicobookshelf.com & Facebook TELLICO VACATION

our

Hours:

comfortable

Savor

206 Cherohala Skyway, 866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com

71FALL 2022 MONROE LIFE EverhartLumberCompany,LLC 911VeteransMemorialDrive,423-253-2323 www.everhart-lumber.com SkywayRealtyLandandHomes SkywayRealty'sassociatescreatehomeandland dreamsforbuyersandsellers.Forbuyers,we honeinonandhelpyouselecttheplacesyou aremostlikelyinterestedinbuying.Sellershave newdreamswehelpthem findasweselltheir currentproperties.Welovebeinghelpersinone ofthemostimportantdecisionsofyourlives. Wemaketherealestateexperienceenjoyable fromthe firstcalltothecloseandenjoywin-win transactionswitheveryoneatthetabletalking toeachotherasfriends...that'swhatwealllike aboutTellicoPlains,it’swarm,friendly,peaceful andsuccessful.Calltoday423.253.7100.Emailus atinfo1@tellico-tn.com.Wearereadytogo.Stop inandseeusatourofficeontheSkyway...where thebearsare. 411CherohalaSkyway,423.253.7100 www.tellico-tn.com Helpingyoumakeourhometownyourhometown. Stopbyandseeoneofourseasonedagentswith expertiseinourhistoricandscenicarea. 418CherohalaSkyway,423.253.6145 email:info@easttennnrealty.com www.tellicomountainrealty.com FindusonfacebookTellicoMountainRealtyLLC TellicoVacationRentals Savortheserenityofyourowncabininthe mountains!Choosefromoneto fivebedrooms thatssleepsfromtwototenguests.Select acabinwithahottubonthedeck,acozy fireplaceorapooltableinthegame room.Ourcabinsareidealforaromantic getaway,aweddingorhoneymoon,afamily vacationorreunion.Withyourownkitchen, multiplebedrooms,comfortablelivingareas andoutdoordecks,you’ll findcabinrentals tobeafabulousvalueforextendedvacations forseveralcouplesorextendedfamilies.Our cabinsareprivateandcomfortable,eachtotally unique.Achangeinaltitudecreatesachange inattitude! 206CherohalaSkyway,866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com TheThriftStoreofTellicoPlains Whileyou’revisitingOldTownTellico,remember tocheckoutthebargainsatTheThriftStore ofTellicoPlains. Allproceedsraisedfromthe saleofhouseholditems,linens,andclothingfor thewholefamilyareusedtopurchasefoodfor needyseniorsandfamiliesintheTellicoarea. TheBookshelf TheBookshelfisaquaintlittlebookshopin theHistoricDistrictjustofftheTownSquare. Celebrating15yearsasMonroeCounty’sonly full-servicebookstore,theyoffernewlocal historybooksandgentlyusedbooksinall categories.Theirfriendlyandknowledgeable staffalsooffersfreeout-of-printbooksearches. Hours:Tuesday–Saturday:10am-5pm 108ScottStreet,423.253.3183 www.tellicobookshelf.com FindusonFacebook EverhartLumberCompanyspecializesinhigh qualityspecialtytimberandfurnitureproducts. Everhart'sisawoodspecialtyandfurniturestorein TellicoPlains,TennesseethatoffersReady-Made andCustom-MadeFurniturefromunique characterwoodssuchasblackwalnut,figured maple,flamingboxelder,easternredcedar,teak, andotherwoodtypes.Wealsooffermantles, woodencountertopsforkitchenislandsand panelingmadefromreclaimedbarnwoodand reclaimedwoodpreviouslyusedtoharvest mushrooms. OpenTues–Fri:9a–5p,Sat:9a–2p EVERHARTCOMPANY,LUMBERLLC Everhart Lumber Company specializes in high quality specialty timber and furniture products. Everhart’s is a wood specialty and furniture store in Tellico Plains, Tennessee that offers Ready-Made and Custom-Made Furniture from unique character woods such as black walnut, figured maple, flaming box elder, eastern red cedar, teak, and other wood types. We also offer mantles, wooden counter tops for kitchen islands and paneling made from reclaimed barnwood and reclaimed wood previously used to harvest mushrooms. 911 Veterans Memorial Drive Open Tuesday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday – 9:00 am – 2:00 pm 423.253.2323 www.everhart-lumber.com SKYWAY REALTY LAND AND HOMES Skyway Realty’s associates create home and land dreams for buyers and sellers. For buyers, we hone in on and help you select the places you are most likely interested in buying. Sellers have new dreams we help them find as we sell their current properties. We love being helpers in one of the most important decisions of your lives. We make the real estate experience enjoyable from the first call to the close and enjoy win-win transactions with everyone at the table talking to each other as friends...that’s what we all like about Tellico Plains, it’s warm, friendly, peaceful and successful. Call today 423.253.7100. Email us at info1@tellico-tn. com. We are ready to go. Stop in and see us at our office on the Skyway...where the bears are. 411 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.7100 www.tellico-tn.com

extended families. Our cabins are private and comfortable, each totally unique. Achangeinaltitudecreatesachangeinattitude! 206 Cherohala Skyway, 866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com TELLICO MOUNTAIN REALTY Helping you make our hometown your hometown. Stop by and see one of our seasoned agents with expertise in our historic and scenic area. 418 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.6145 email: info@easttennnrealty.com www.tellicomountainrealty.com EverhartLumberCompany,LLC 911VeteransMemorialDrive,423-253-2323 www.everhart-lumber.com SkywayRealtyLandandHomes SkywayRealty'sassociatescreatehomeandland dreamsforbuyersandsellers.Forbuyers,we honeinonandhelpyouselecttheplacesyou aremostlikelyinterestedinbuying.Sellershave newdreamswehelpthem findasweselltheir currentproperties.Welovebeinghelpersinone ofthemostimportantdecisionsofyourlives. Wemaketherealestateexperienceenjoyable fromthe firstcalltothecloseandenjoywin-win transactionswitheveryoneatthetabletalking toeachotherasfriends...that'swhatwealllike aboutTellicoPlains,it’swarm,friendly,peaceful andsuccessful.Calltoday423.253.7100.Emailus atinfo1@tellico-tn.com.Wearereadytogo.Stop inandseeusatourofficeontheSkyway...where thebearsare. 411CherohalaSkyway,423.253.7100 Helpingyoumakeourhometownyourhometown. Stopbyandseeoneofourseasonedagentswith expertiseinourhistoricandscenicarea. 418CherohalaSkyway,423.253.6145 email:info@easttennnrealty.com www.tellicomountainrealty.com FindusonfacebookTellicoMountainRealtyLLC TellicoVacationRentals Savortheserenityofyourowncabininthe mountains!Choosefromoneto fivebedrooms thatssleepsfromtwototenguests.Select acabinwithahottubonthedeck,acozy fireplaceorapooltableinthegame room.Ourcabinsareidealforaromantic getaway,aweddingorhoneymoon,afamily vacationorreunion.Withyourownkitchen, multiplebedrooms,comfortablelivingareas andoutdoordecks,you’ll findcabinrentals tobeafabulousvalueforextendedvacations forseveralcouplesorextendedfamilies.Our cabinsareprivateandcomfortable,eachtotally unique.Achangeinaltitudecreatesachange inattitude! 206CherohalaSkyway,866.253.2254 tvr@tellicovacationrentals.com TheThriftStoreofTellicoPlains Whileyou’revisitingOldTownTellico,remember tocheckoutthebargainsatTheThriftStore ofTellicoPlains. Allproceedsraisedfromthe saleofhouseholditems,linens,andclothingfor thewholefamilyareusedtopurchasefoodfor needyseniorsandfamiliesintheTellicoarea. LikeusonFacebook. 110ScottStreetnexttoTheBookshelf. OpenMonday-Saturday:9a.m.-1:45p.m. TheBookshelf TheBookshelfisaquaintlittlebookshopin theHistoricDistrictjustofftheTownSquare. Celebrating15yearsasMonroeCounty’sonly full-servicebookstore,theyoffernewlocal historybooksandgentlyusedbooksinall categories.Theirfriendlyandknowledgeable staffalsooffersfreeout-of-printbooksearches. Hours:Tuesday–Saturday:10am-5pm 108ScottStreet,423.253.3183 www.tellicobookshelf.com FindusonFacebook EverhartLumberCompanyspecializesinhigh qualityspecialtytimberandfurnitureproducts. Everhart'sisawoodspecialtyandfurniturestorein TellicoPlains,TennesseethatoffersReady-Made andCustom-MadeFurniturefromunique characterwoodssuchasblackwalnut,figured maple,flamingboxelder,easternredcedar,teak, andotherwoodtypes.Wealsooffermantles, woodencountertopsforkitchenislandsand panelingmadefromreclaimedbarnwoodand reclaimedwoodpreviouslyusedtoharvest mushrooms. OpenTues–Fri:9a–5p,Sat:9a–2p EVERHARTCOMPANY,LUMBERLLC Everhart Lumber Company specializes in high quality specialty timber and furniture products. Everhart’s is a wood specialty and furniture store in Tellico Plains, Tennessee that offers Ready-Made and Custom-Made Furniture from unique character woods such as black walnut, figured maple, flaming box elder, eastern red cedar, teak, and other wood types. We also offer mantles, wooden counter tops for kitchen islands and paneling made from reclaimed barnwood and reclaimed wood previously used to harvest mushrooms. 911 Veterans Memorial Drive Open Tuesday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday – 9:00 am – 2:00 pm 423.253.2323 www.everhart-lumber.com SKYWAY REALTY LAND AND HOMES Skyway Realty’s associates create home and land dreams for buyers and sellers. For buyers, we hone in on and help you select the places you are most likely interested in buying. Sellers have new dreams we help them find as we sell their current properties. We love being helpers in one of the most important decisions of your lives. We make the real estate experience enjoyable from the first call to the close and enjoy win-win transactions with everyone at the table talking to each other as friends...that’s what we all

com. We are

about

THE BOOKSHELF The Bookshelf is a quaint little bookshop in the Historic District just off the Town Square. Celebrating 15 years as Monroe County’s only full-service bookstore, they offer new local history books and gently used books in all categories. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff also offers free outof-print book searches.

THE BOOKSHELF The Bookshelf is quaint little bookshop in just off Square. years County’s full-service bookstore, they offer books and gently used books in all categories. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff also offers free outof-print book searches. Tuesday–Saturday: 10am-5pm 108 Scott Street, 423.253.3183 RENTALS the serenity of cabin in the deck, a cozy stone fireplace or a pool table in the game room. Our cabins are ideal for moon, a family vacation or reunion. With kitchen, multiple bedrooms, living areas and outdoor decks, you’ll find cabin rentals to be a fabulous value for extended vacations for several couples or like Tellico Plains, it’s warm, peaceful at info1@tellico-tn. ready to go. Stop in and see at office on the Skyway...where the bears are. 411 Cherohala Skyway, 423.253.7100 www.tellico-tn.com

72 MONROE LIFE FALL 2022 TELLICAFE The Leudemann family can now boast twenty-five years and four generations of good service and good food employing an executive certified chef. The Tellicafe is open seven days a week all year round serving lunch and dinner. Providing a memorable dinning experience, specialties like Fried Green Tomatoes, Trout Cakes, Fresh Prime Rib, BBQ Menu and Country Cooking keep customers coming back time after time. Enjoy the $7.99 variety burger menu. 128 Bank Street, 423.253.2880 THE BEARS DEN Rich Leudemann, owner of The Bears Den and Tellicafe, located in Tellico Plains, TN, grew up in the restaurant business. His father was a restaurant owner and passed his love of the business on to Rich. Over the years, Rich has been around the business in almost every aspect. Rich’s latest endeavor, The Bears Den, a pizza restaurant heavily influenced by his Italian heritage, is now open and already hosting live music and other wonderful events. With seating for over 80 people, you are sure to find your place. Menu consists of New York Style and Sicilian Pizza. Specialty pizzas and dessert pizzas, cold beer, hoagies and wings! 9188 New Hwy 68, 423.253.3361 www.bearsdentellico.com

MASONFURNITURE&APPLIANCES168WARRENST,MADISONVILLE423.442.294074