There’s a lot to love about fall—the beautiful leaves, football season, Halloween— but for me, the best part of fall is the Monroe Life Balloon Festival. It’s hard to believe this is our eleventh year! Each year, we work our hardest to throw a great festival for the people of Monroe County and, more importantly, to raise money for the local Boys and Girls Club. We donate all of our time and multiply the sponsors money with the event.
SENATOR ESTES KEFAUVER
In this issue, we start a 6-part series on Estes Kefauver. As some of you may know, I purchased the Kefauver house in Madisonville, and we’ve worked for two years to get it on the National Registry of Historic Places. This September, we will finally be approved on the state level. It will go on to the National Park Service for the official approval which takes about 45 days - finally!
In the 1956 Democratic National Convention Kefauver won the Vice Presidential nomination, beating John F. Kennedy in the only election JFK ever lost. Links to footage of the convention and the first ever televised debate are on our site. It was very interesting to me to actually see this famous Tennessean in action.
www.mcminnlife.com/kefauver
Next, join us for a breathtaking trip through Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Parks. These three beautiful sites are perfect for nature lovers.
Also in this issue, read about fun events, mouthwatering Ingles Table fall recipes, and more. Looking for great places to take your kids for Halloween? Look no further than our events section! And make some time to enjoy our beutiful Cherohala. Additionally, read Master Gardener Gayle Fisher’s advice on yellowjackets, poppies, and Ginkgo trees.
Promoting my home region has always been a passion of mine, so I hope you enjoy our latest issue. Thank you to our advertisers who make it all possible.
Lisa Atkins-Bingham
The Bingham Group, President & Publisher of Monroe, Farragut and McMinn Life Magazines
SEQUOYAH BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM, VONORE
The 11th 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, August 31st and runs through Sunday, September 1st, 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!
LABOR DAY WEEKEND
SATURDAY, AUGUST 31st & SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1st, 4 -10 pm
BRING YOUR LAWNCHAIR OR BLANKET, HAVE DINNER AND STAY FOR THE BALLOON GLOW AT DUSK
This is a rain or shine event. No Refunds. Balloons will inflate weather permitting.
GLOW IN THE DARK COTTON CANDY • CORN DOGS • CHEESE STEAK
We are proud to present Dusty Leigh Huston as the performing artist for both days of the Festival. This incredible country-music artist was named the 2022 ISSA Female Vocalist of the Year. Her debut EP, Roots & Dreams, has been a huge hit, and she’s hard at work on a new album. Her songs have been streamed well over 200,000 times on Spotify. She is from Idaho and now lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Come to the festival to hear her perform live!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
FOUNDING SPONSOR
CIVIL AIR PATROL & THE BOY SCOUT’S
With so many people in Monroe County and beyond struggling due to inflation, Boys & Girls Clubs are more necessary than ever. Currently, almost 45% of parents are unable to pay the Club’s low weekly fees. Nevertheless, at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Ocoee Region (BGCOR), no child is ever turned away—regardless of their financial situation—so donations are required to cover the costs of those families in need.
BGCOR’s Monroe County Director of Events & Donor Relations, Carly Armstrong, explained the importance of the Club’s work: “The 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.” Since the Club stays open until 7 p.m., it helps parents who work odd hours, and serves as an essential service to our community.
You can support BGCOR’s Monroe County units by attending the Monroe Life Balloon Festival during Labor Day Weekend. We’ve raised hundreds of thousands to support our local kids, and with your help, we want to raise even more!
FYellowJackets
all is here and we have had a cooling rain and the temperatures have finally dropped at night. Autumn is a beautiful time here in East Tennessee. Our leaves have just started to turn and mums are available in the stores. The days are shorter. The morning and afternoon light is a soft yellow hue compared to summer’s white light. The difference is comparable to summer light being a fluorescent bulb and fall being the yellow light of our old outlawed incandescent filament bulbs.
Two weeks ago I had an exciting day mowing the banks in front of the house. I thought I had stepped onto a fire ant hill when the first yellow jacket stung my leg. Looking down the push mower was buzzing with yellow jackets as well as the ground where I was walking. I quickly sprinted toward the house leaving the lawn mower as heat bait for the wasp. I was stung again before I arrived at the door and I could hear some yellow jackets buzzing around my head.
Boy, did those stings hurt. I had total of four. I had become just another statistic, one of the 500,000 people who visit the emergency room each year after a sting. In America 12-15 people die from snake bites each year. Compare that to the fact that more than twice as many die from wasp and bee stings. We are either smarter or have nicer snakes in our area because in the past 40 years there has only been seven recorded deaths from snake bites in the whole state of Tennessee. Then the shocking statistic (no pun intended) that about 100 Americans die annually from being struck by lightning.
They may look like bees, but ground nesting yellow jackets are actually members of the hornet family. Their large numbers and unmatched aggression make them extremely dangerous, especially when you get near their nests. The colonies are currently at their max size and the hornets are more aggressive now as they near death. You can compare their attitude to a cranky old person who is never happy so they immediately attack everything you say.
If you stumble upon a nest — an unfortunately common occurrence while mowing or weed whacking — and get stung repeatedly, seek immediate medical attention, especially if you experience symptoms beyond the pain of the individual stings, like difficulty breathing. Virtually all of the so-called “bee sting deaths” in the United States are the result of yellow jacket attacks, so you should take such an attack seriously.
The house was cool when I rushed inside and shut the door to keep out the yellow jackets that were still swarming around me. I was able to kill the one that had entered with me. I made a paste of meat tenderizer to put on my stings then took off my boot only to find another angry hornet fly out of my boot and over to the window. Even with the painful stings, my adrenaline was pumping as I grabbed the fly swatter and killed the intruder. Phew!
LIFE CYCLE & HABITAT
Ground-nesting yellowjackets construct paper nests that may contain thousands of larvae and adult workers. These nests are typically located underground in abandoned rodent burrows or in other enclosed spaces such as tree cavities, wall cavities, wood piles, and dense ivy. During the fall, young queens mate and find protected areas (such as fallen logs, tree cavities, cracks in buildings, etc.) where they remain for the duration of the winter. When spring arrives, queens select nesting sites and begin the process of colony initiation (nest construction, deposition of eggs, and hunting for food). Once adult workers emerge, they take over many of the tasks of nest maintenance so that the queen can remain within the safety of the nest and lay eggs. Foraging ground-nesting yellowjacket workers commonly come into contact with people who are eating outdoors and may become extremely aggressive. The colony grows throughout the summer and into fall, and eventually begins production of males and queens. When rain and/or freezing temperatures return, nests typically die out, and newly mated queens find protected areas to overwinter so the process can begin anew in the spring.
THE TOWN OF BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA
Love nature? Blue Ridge, Georgia is a perfect destination containing:
over 106,000 acres of the Chattahoochee National Forest 300 miles of hiking trails the start of the Appalachian Trail 100 miles of trout streams
Blue Ridge was once considered an elite health resort because of its pure mineral waters. It was established as a railroad town, with the depot at its heart. Visitors would ride the train to town, eat dinner and then take a leisurely walk to the mineral springs after dinner. Today, visitors still ride the train and take a walk along Main Street, enjoying the antique and specialty shops, galleries, restaurants, smalltown atmosphere, and friendly people. First-time visitors are amazed at the number and quality of shops and restaurants in downtown Blue Ridge.
BLUE RIDGE SCENIC RAILWAY
Don’t miss the train! Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which runs along the Toccoa River from Blue Ridge to McCaysville. Board the train at the historic depot in Blue Ridge and ride in beautifully restored train cars. The view changes with the seasons — dogwoods in the spring, rhododendron in the summer and gorgeous foliage in the fall.
And now: Railbikes — a fun, do-it-yourself trip on the tracks.
Open March– December; call 1-877-413-8724 or visit brscenic.com.
In 2022, Southern Living Magazine named Blue Ridge one of the South’s best mountain towns. Visit Blue Ridge to enjoy kayaking on the Toccoa River or whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. The town also features zipline tours, wine tastings, fly fishing, and even a chimp sanctuary. In addition, you can also stop by Mercier Orchards, the largest apple orchard in the Southeast. Enjoy a tractor ride or pick fresh fruit at this beautiful orchard. If you’re looking for a nearby destination for your next trip, why not consider Blue Ridge?
Photo
BLUE RIDGE’S ARTSY VIBE
Blue Ridge has an artsy vibe, with a vibrant arts scene and great arts center, and community theater. Plus, live music is featured at many restaurants, wineries, and breweries. The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, located in the beautifully renovated historic courthouse in downtown Blue Ridge, houses exhibits, a pottery and kiln studio, five artistic guilds, five galleries, and an artist-in-residence program. Don’t miss the gift shop and rotating seasonal exhibits.
Corn Poppies (Papaver rhoeas) are best known for their soft, breeze-blown flowers. This plant is also known as the common poppy, corn rose and field poppy. On a sadder note it is also the Flanders poppy. Due to the extent of ground disturbance in warfare during World War I, these corn poppies bloomed between the trench lines and no man’s lands on the Western front.
This annual grows well for us. You should sow the seeds in the fall since they need cool weather to germinate. They also require a lot of water to sprout. If the seed dries out during the critical two-to-three-week germination period, the planting will be spotty. I planted mine in a border garden not realizing that they needed special care. The first year must have been perfect, and I had a lovely display. Seeds were set and sprouted once again that fall with no effort on my part. I had another bright spot the following spring. But for the last five years my timing has been off; those wonderful self-sown seeds have not returned, and later I had no success with newly purchased seeds. Maybe if you have automatic sprinklers, you will have more luck getting your seeds to germinate properly.
These Poppies are distant cousins of the opium poppy. The beautiful red blooms grow one to three feet tall and need full sun and soil that is well drained. Seeds are best sown in the garden since plants do not transplant well. If you didn’t get them out in the fall, you can try sowing them in the garden two or three weeks before the last frost date in spring. After germination they need low to medium water requirements. No pests seem to bother them since they stop blooming before Japanese beetles arrive, but they can be susceptible to fungi. Poppies love cool, sunny conditions. They leave before things heat up here below the Mason-Dixon Line, the silk looking blooms only last one day.
They have finely divided fern-like foliage that is a beautiful light green-blue. The blooms are solitary, shallow cupped and paper thin. They close in cloudy weather. On sunny day they turn their face openly to bask in the light. You can grow them in an annual border in gravel or in a rock garden and the seeds can be sown in succession for a continuous display. If you want to see this beautiful nodding lady in mass, our highway beautification program
PCORN oppies
has them planted along the interstate. I also have a (Papaver dubium) poppy this little flower only grows about a foot tall. The blooms are a light orange and they never need planting again. Once and done. When
my friend gave me the seeds she said “you will never lose this plant” it is also known as long-headed or blindeyes. She was right. No matter the weather or conditions it returns year after year usually where I don’t want it.
MASTER GARDENER
GayleFisher
GinkgoTrees
Ginkgo trees (Ginkgo biloba) often called the “Maidenhair Tree” are today’s living dinosaurs of the botanical world. It is the oldest living species of tree, the sole survivor of the Ginkoaceae family. This tree is recorded in fossil records at the same time that dinosaurs roamed the earth. Ginkgo trees were once widespread in Tennessee, but were destroyed by the Ice Age. We have ancient Buddhist Monks from Tibet to thank for their preservation.
The Ginkgo is a sacred tree in both China and Japan. Writings about the Ginkgo appear in China circa 2800 B.C. The leaves were brewed to make a tea to prevent memory loss. Today the leaves are showing promise in studies concerning Alzheimer’s disease. Alternative minded doctors have published studies stating that it also helps increase blood circulation.
There isn’t a better-looking fall tree. The leaves on the entire tree turn at the same rate so that the tree has a uniform glow. The Ginkgo grows from 80 to 100 feet tall, but no more than twothirds as wide. This makes the tree pyramidal. They have characteristic fan-shaped leaves and are bi-lobed (biloba is defined as two lobes) a duck foot shape. Leaves in the spring are a light green and will suddenly turn a pure, dazzling yellow in the autumn. Unlike my maple and oak trees, the Ginkgo drops virtually all their leaves in one day. They have an incredible ability to resist insects and disease, thus making them a fine ornamental tree.
The best time to plant a new tree is from November through March. Avoid planting if the ground is frozen or muddy. Ginkgoes are slow growing with a maximum increase of about 3 feet per year. This tree is very popular in cities today holding up beautifully in the urban environment withstanding air pollution. An established Ginkgo is drought resistant, and adjusts to a wide range of soil acidity levels. They need a sunny location with adequate drainage. Give them plenty of room to grow with a life expectancy of close to 600 years. These trees are hardy in regions that reach as low as –20 degrees.
This tree sounds too good to be true. The problem with Ginkgo trees is sex. There are male and female trees. Only the female Ginkgo has fruit. Not your usual nut or apple fruit but fruit that appears similar to an apricot. This fruit, which ripens in the fall, gives off an awful stench. The dropped fruit has a near-lethal odor reminding you of rancid butter. The fruit is also a nuisance making a slippery mess. Female trees are a constant problem during the fall months.
The way to ensure that you have a male ginkgo is to have one that was produced by asexual propagation. This would be by grafting or by a rooted cutting. Your nursery should certify that you are receiving a male tree.
My Ginkgo tree presented a fast strip tease last year, the fan shaped leaves deciding to turn a blushing blonde all in one day, only to have the rain come in two nights later forcing him to drop all fan foliage to the ground so that he quickly stood naked waiting for winter.
By Gayle Fisher
THESE RECIPES ARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY INGLES, STARTED IN 1963 BY ROBERT P. INGLE AND COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE.
Ingles Provides Floral Arrangements for the Monroe Life Balloon Festival
SPICY COCONUT PUMPKIN SOUP
By: Michael McMurtrey
SHOPPING LIST
2 tbsp. tamari (or coconut aminos)
Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds, for garnish
1 tsp black pepper, or to taste
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1 lime, juiced
2 Thai red chilis, sliced (or sweet, for garnish)
1 sweet (Vidalia) onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, grated
1 tbsp. ginger root, grated
1 bunch cilantro, destemmed
2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
1 tsp. turmeric
1 tbsp. tomato paste
1 tbsp. of Thai red chili paste
2 14 oz. cans coconut milk
1 tbsp. coconut oil
2 15 oz. cans pumpkin (not pumpkin pie)
1 cup vegetable stock (no-chicken broth)
DIRECTIONS:
In a pot, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add tomato paste, red chili paste, pumpkin, ginger, garlic, 1 can coconut milk, and broth. Combine until thoroughly heated through. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth. (or blend in batches in a blender) Season to taste with salt and pepper. Using second can of coconut milk, swirl 1 tbsp. into each serving of soup. Top with green onion, cilantro, and pumpkin seeds!
You’re hosting an event for all your friends and family, and you want your house to look nice. How can you make a good impression?
One easy way is by buying floral bouquets for a table centerpiece. Not only does this brighten your home, but you don’t even have to go out of your way to stop by an expensive florist; instead, come to Ingles, where we have fresh, beautiful cut stems or full bouquets of colorful flowers. If you’re not sure what to pick, our experienced floral experts can help. Not only is Ingles Floral convenient, but it’s also affordable for people of any budget.
Next time you’re grocery shopping, buy some flowers to add a colorful touch to your home that the guests are sure to notice.
SLOW-COOKED ASIAN BEEF SHORT RIBS
By: Caroline Taylor
INGREDIENTS:
8 beef short ribs, cut into 4 equal servings 1/2 cup soy sauce
1 (10 oz.) bottle teriyaki sauce
4 large garlic cloves, minced
CINNAMON SUGAR ALMONDS
By: Clark and Suzy Neal with Unicoi Preserves
INGREDIENTS:
2 large egg whites
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
5 cups whole almonds
1 cup Dixie Crystals light brown sugar
1 cup Dixie Crystals granulated
pure cane sugar
1 Tbsp cinnamon
1/4 Tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 250°. Line a sheet pan with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
1 (14.5 oz.) can tart cherries 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar 1/2 cup honey
4 cups mashed potatoes (Ingles Deli)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all of the ingredients together, except mashed potatoes, in a crock pot. Simmer on low for 6 hours, until meat is tender and easily pulls apart. Serve on a bed of mashed potatoes and top with cooking liquid.
minced chives, parsley, and croutons, for garnishing
DIRECTIONS:
In a Dutch oven, combine the first five ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until vegetables are tender, 8-10 minutes. Stir in cheese, just until melted (do not boil).
Top with Abby J’s Smokin’ Hot Sauce and garnish with chives, croutons, and parsley.
PUMPKIN PIE MARTINI
By: Chef Abby J
INGREDIENTS:
2 tbsp. granulated sugar
1 tsp. pumpkin spice lemon wedge
4 oz, vodka
1 1/2 oz. heavy cream
1 1/2 oz. maple syrup
3 tbsp. Pumpkin Puree
DIRECTIONS:
Mix the sugar and pumpkin pie on a shallow dish. Using a lemon wedge, wet the rim of the martini glasses. Dip the glasses in the spice/sugar mixture to coat the rim. In a cocktail shaker full of ice combine the vodka, heavy cream, maple syrup and pumpkin puree. Shake well and strain into glasses. Garnish with cinnamon stick, pumpkin spice, and whipped cream. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ pumpkin-pie-martini
PUMPKIN RIGATONI WITH SAUSAGE & SPINACH
INGLES FLORAL
By: John Gifaldi
INGREDIENTS:
Have you ever had one of those days when you know a friend needs a little good cheer, a relative needs a quick pick me up or perhaps someone in the office has a birthday… But, you still have errands to run, kids to pick up from school and grocery shopping to do. Now you don’t have to skip anything. Visit the Ingles Floral Department for all those “you deserve something special moments”
2 tbsp. olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
1 pound sweet Italian sausage, cut into 1” pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1 1/4 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 pound rigatoni pasta
6 oz. fresh spinach
Ingles Floral is a convenient way to shop for beautiful cut stems or full bouquets. Choose from a variety of balloons and ribbons and even plants that will keep on saying “you’re the best” for a long time to come. And, all of our floral departments are stocked with only the freshest and most colorful varieties. Need a little help saying just the right thing with flowers?
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to garnish
At Ingles you can ask our friendly and knowledgeable floral associates for a hand. Many of our floral employees have years of advanced floral experience. And, our selections may look exclusive but they are priced for value
DIRECTIONS:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the onions and cook for 5 minutes, until starting to soften. Add in the Italian sausage and cook until no pink remains. Add in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add in the wine and let it reduce down by half or until you can’t smell the wine any longer. Add in the chicken stock, pumpkin, and cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook for 10 minutes on medium-low heat, stirring frequently. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions just 1 minute shy of al dente. Drain pasta reserving 1 cup of the pasta water. Stir the spinach into the sauce and cook for 2 minutes, until wilted. Add in 1/2 cup grated parmesan and stir to combine. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and stir to coat. Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little pasta water.
So next time you want to lift the spirits of a friend or you just need a lift yourself, depend on the Ingles Floral department. It’s convenient, within any budget and I’m sure we’ll have just the thing.
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
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!
We also publish full versions of our print magazines online the same day they’re being delivered to homes!
See all the delicious recipes from current and past issues complete with step by step instructions and an integrated shopping list!
See all the delicious recipes from current and past issues complete with step by step instructions and an integrated shopping list!
Need to Scale a Recipe?
No problem! Our online recipe system allows you to choose how many servings you want and it automatically adjusts the needed ingredients and shopping list!
www.mcminnlif e.com
Need to Scale a Recipe? No problem! Our online recipe system allows you to choose how many servings you want and it automatically adjusts the needed ingredients and shopping list!
www.monroelife.com
TENNESSEE’S SENATOR
y grandmother was from Madisonville, Tennessee and I recall very well her traveling from her home in Maryville to attend the funeral of Senator Estes Kefauver in August of 1963. She retained a fondness for Senator Kefauver throughout her life and never missed an opportunity to vote for him. My grandmother’s affection for Senator Kefauver was most decidedly not shared by her husband, my grandfather, who was a devout Republican.
For over a decade, many Tennesseans did share my grandmother’s admiration and fondness for the man who may well have been the best personal campaigner the State of Tennessee has ever seen.
Carey Estes Kefauver was born on July 26, 1903 in Madisonville, the son of Robert Cooke and Phredonia Kefauver. Cooke Kefauver was not wealthy, although the family lived in an impressive home. The elder Kefauver was also well liked enough by his friends and neighbors to be elected Mayor of Madisonville five times.
Those who knew Estes Kefauver realized an event in his youth traumatized him severely. While swimming with his elder brother, Robert, Estes was headed towards the bank of the Tellico River when friends shouted that his brother had disappeared beneath the water. Estes quickly swam back and retrieved his brother and he and his friends tried to administer artificial respiration They even rolled Robert over a barrel in an attempt to get the water from his stomach and lungs. Robert remained unconscious when they got him home although he later revived.
According to the recollection of a family friend, Robert was well enough later that evening to have a second helping of peach
ice cream with his supper, but he went into convulsions and died on August 9, 1914.
It was a loss from which Estes Kefauver never recovered. Some of his friends believed Estes felt a sense of guilt for not having been able to more quickly save his brother and he pushed himself all the harder to achieve success after the loss of his older sibling. Kefauver’s ambition burned bright beneath his calm and deliberate exterior.
Young Estes attended the University of Tennessee and spent a year teaching before leaving for Yale University. Kefauver not only earned a law degree from Yale, but graduated cum laude. Immediately following his graduation from Yale, Estes Kefauver returned home to commence the practice of law. In 1934, Kefauver met the red-haired, green-eyed Nancy Pigott, who was a native of Glasgow, Scotland. Miss Pigott was visiting Chattanooga when she was introduced to Kefauver. The two were married and their union would produce four children.
Right to Left: Estes’ wife, Nancy Kefauver, Daughter, Lynda, David, Diane, Gail
Estes and his older brother Joe, Estes with his Mother, Phredonia, Joe and sister Nora, the next two photos are Estes with Nancy and Nora, Estes on a Madisonville Middle School baseball team and Estes at Yale.
Senator Estes Kefauver
Kefauver had increasingly become more interested in politics and government through having been the attorney for the Chattanooga News. Kefauver launched a campaign for the Tennessee State Senate in 1938. It was a critical year for the Democratic Party in Tennessee, which was torn asunder by the two prevailing factions, one of which was headed by Governor Gordon Browning, while the other was headed by Senator K. D. McKellar and E. H. Crump.
Kefauver had well prepared himself for his State Senate campaign and even had the support of Senator Fletcher Morgan, who was retiring. Unfortunately for Kefauver, the strongest political organization in Hamilton County was that of County Judge Will Cummings. Judge Cummings supported a young attorney named Joe Bean, who had been defeated by Fletcher Morgan two years previously.
The tall and awkward Kefauver delivered leaden speeches on the campaign trail, which was a poor contrast to Joe Bean, who spoke smoothly and humorously. A successful attorney, as well as a former member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, Joe Bean knew far more about local politics than Estes Kefauver.
“I have always had liberal tendencies,” Kefauver confessed in a radio speech
during his State Senate campaign. That philosophy would be at the center of every statewide campaign Estes Kefauver ever ran in Tennessee.
While campaigning, Kefauver picked up a devoted assistant who would be deeply involved in his political future for decades to come. While attending an ice cream social, Kefauver was approached by a pudgy blueeyed twelve-year old boy who was the son of one of his supporters. Harry Mansfield was bright and friendly and the little fellow and Estes Kefauver hit it off and the candidate asked Harry’s mother if she would allow her son to accompany him on the campaign trail. She readily agreed and Harry Mansfield went everywhere with Kefauver. When the little boy became tired, he was hoisted atop the tall and lanky candidate’s shoulders.
Kefauver hit back hard against Bean and the Cummings organization. Kefauver was aghast at being referred to by Joe Bean as a wealthy corporation lawyer (never an asset in any election), and lashed back by referring his opponent as “Mr. Jelly Bean”, an amusing phrase conceived of by George Fort Milton, publisher of the Chattanooga News.
Kefauver tried for a little humor, saying, “The only objection I have to my opponent calling me a wealthy person is that it gets my creditors excited.”
Kefauver went on to opine, “If we should have a little earthquake, it would shake my small house down to the third mortgage.” The house in which Estes Kefauver lived was actually rented, but it was a great line for a campaign speech.
On Election Night, Kefauver started out in the lead, but the organization of Judge Will Cummings was very strong in Hamilton County and as the returns trickled in, Kefauver’s lead disappeared. Joe Bean won by 307 votes with more than 15,000 ballots having been cast. Little Harry Mansfield was so crushed he cried copiously. Many Kefauver supporters grumbled about election fraud, but Kefauver himself accepted the verdict of the people. It was the only election contest Estes Kefauver lost in Tennessee
Kefauver had been opposed to the county unit bill, which had been proposed by Governor Gordon Browning to destroy the Shelby County political organization headed by Edward Hull Crump of Memphis. Kefauver actually testified against the bill before the legislature.
Estes Kefauver became acquainted with State Senator Prentice Cooper, who eventually opposed Governor Gordon Browning for the Democratic nomination in 1938. Cooper had worked hard to defeat the county unit bill in the legislature and had won the sup-
port for Tennessee’s powerful United States Senator Kenneth D. McKellar in his primary bid. Cooper was then promptly endorsed by McKellar’s close personal friend and political partner, E. H. Crump.
Cooper and Kefauver became friends and even double dated occasionally, according to Kefauver’s biographer, Charles Fontenay. One of Cooper’s lady friends was admiring Kefauver a little too openly while they played golf and the tart-tongued Cooper made mention of it, causing his girl friend to sigh, “But, Prentice, he has such nice-looking shoulders!” Needless to say, she did not become Mrs. Prentice Cooper.
After being elected governor in 1938, Cooper called for his friend Kefauver to serve as Commissioner of Finance and Taxation in his first administration. Kefauver politely refused the first offer and his former rival, State Senator Joe Bean promptly recommended another Chattanooga lawyer for the post. The peppery little governor evidently adamantly refused to consider anybody but Estes Kefauver.
Well after he had left the governor’s office, Prentice Cooper told journalist and Kefauver biographer Charles Fontenay that he insisted upon Estes Kefauver to serve as Commissioner of Finance for the simplest of reasons:
“HE WAS AN HONEST MAN.”
Cooper explained, “You know, people will say ‘It shouldn’t be hard to find an honest man’. But a politically honest man is not only honest himself – – – he sees to it that everyone who works for him is honest.”
Kefauver had asked his senior law partner whether or not he should accept Governor Cooper’s offer and John Chambliss immediately said he should reject the offer. Chambliss pointed out Kefauver was making around $25,000 a year as an attorney, a considerable income at the time. The salary for the Commissioner for Finance was some $4,000 annually. Kefauver was a notoriously soft touch and was frequently sought out by former clients and friends who desperately needed money and the generous Kefauver would dole out small amounts here and there. It was eventually a continuous drain upon Estes Kefauver’s financial resources.
Finally Estes Kefauver relented and accepted Governor Prentice Cooper’s invitation to join his administration, although Kefauver cautioned the chief executive it was only a “temporary” acceptance.
Despite being wealthy, Prentice Cooper had a parsimonious soul and it was not unusual for the diminutive governor to ride
the bus from his Capitol Hill office back to the governor’s mansion. His penchant for penny-pinching certainly extended to government and Estes Kefauver found himself trimming the state’s budget.
Upon his arrival in Nashville, Kefauver walked past a horde of silent state employees with grim faces. Kefauver looked at his executive assistant and murmured, “Tell them to go back to work. I’m not going to fire everybody.”
Working very long hours, besieged by those seeking state jobs, Kefauver often did not end his day until well after the sun went down. His wife, Nancy, would oftentimes come to his office so they could go out to supper together. Kefauver would then return to his office to dictate his mail.
Kefauver finally left his post in April of 1939 and rejoined his former law firm. Kefauver had barely settled back into the routine of practicing law before the Congressman from Tennessee’s Third District died unexpectedly July 11, 1939. There would be a brutal fight inside the Democratic Party to succeed an incumbent who had been in office since 1923.
To the dismay of friends and against the advice of his father, Estes Kefauver announced he was running for Congress.
RESTAURANT SPACE FOR LEASE, SINGLE TENANT SEVERAL RETAIL AND SALON SPACES FOR LEASE
The Kefauver Hotel is located on Main Street in Madisonville. This unique building will be undergoing a major renovation. Madisonville is a Main Street community with an active Downtown Business Alliance. The restaurant has a large dining room with bar, private dining options and possibly a coffee shop.
Saturday, October 26 Cochran Cemetery in Englewood
Contact the Englewood Textile Museum at 423-887-5455 for more information.
t’s finally happened just like we’d all hoped. After seven seasons under Coach Tony Vitello’s incredible leadership—three of which made it to the Worlds Series—after being ranked number one in the country multiple times over the last few years, the Tennessee Vols baseball finally won the World Series. Coming into the World Series, they were ranked number one. It’s the first time in 25 years that the number one team coming into the tournament actually won. The program has thrived under Vitello’s leadership, and we’re all excited to see that the team’s hard work has paid off.
Leadership skills are critical to success, so how exactly should you lead a team?
Coach Vitello gave some great advice in our previous article: McMinnLife.com/coach-tony-vitellos-advice-for-team-leadership/
MONTANA WYOMING IDAHO
Lisa Atkins-Bingham
My girls and I have a goal of visiting all the states and the major national parks. We recently took an epic trip to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Parks in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
These three national parks are easy to do in a few days. We took ten days, drove 2,200 miles, hiked, rafted the Snake River and checked off three more states.
It was an amazing trip, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the outdoors. So, if you’re planning an upcoming vacation, why not consider this trio of national parks?
GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
Alpine vistas, gorgeous lakes, wildlife...Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is a great place to visit, especially for lovers of the Old West. See herds of buffalo graze on the untouched, wide-open lands of the beautiful American countryside. The park is over 300,000 acres, and its tallest mountain reaches 13,775 feet. There’s plenty to do here including scenic hikes, drives, and bike trails. Go fishing, horseback riding, or even mountaineering.
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
The world’s first national park and arguably its most famous, Yellowstone is beloved for its incredible wildlife—including thousands of buffalo—and many geysers. In fact, Yellowstone contains more than half of the geysers in the world, including the famous Old Faithful which erupts approximately every 90 minutes.
The Yellowstone River has two waterfalls within a quarter mile known as the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. Both are spectacular, but the Lower Falls is the most stunning in our opinion. The Lower Falls on the Yellowstone River is the largest waterfall in the Rockies, in terms of water volume, and at 308 feet, it stands almost twice the height of Niagara Falls. Watching this thunderous cascade of water pour into the canyon below is truly incredible.
Landscapes aside, Yellowstone is also known for its wildlife. On its northern edge, the Lamar Valley is dubbed ‘America’s Serengeti’ thanks to its bison, bears and wolves — the latter reintroduced in 1995 in what’s come to be regarded as one of the US’s greatest conservation success stories. Overhead, it’s possible to see ospreys and bald eagles wheeling through the air.
JACKSON HOLE
While you’re enjoying Yellowstone, make sure to check out the nearby town of Jackson Hole, which is a great stop for shopping. There are lots of places to find great souvenirs. This quaint small town also includes a beautiful tram/gondola ride, the infamous “Million Dollar Cowboy Bar,” and the “Jackson Hole Shootout” show every evening except Sunday. Make sure you stop by Judge Roy Bean’s for old timey photos of your family dressed up like the Wild West.
St. Mary Lake
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
The rugged icy mountains of Glacier National Park stand on the boundary between the United States and Canada. The park’s million acres are home to 700 miles of trails, countless lakes, and unique species of plants and animals. If your family loves the outdoors and nature tourism, this is the perfect place to go. One of the best highlights is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most beautiful driving trails in the world, passing forests, waterfalls, and glacial lakes. Along the road, you’ll find the one-mile Trail of the Cedars. This raised boardwalk will take you through a beautiful red cedar forest and provide incredible views. And don’t forget to stop by the largest lake in the park, Lake McDonald, a central hub of the park with lots of activities.
St. Mary Lake is located on the east side of Glacier National Park along the Going-to-theSun Road. The 10-mile long lake offers a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities including elk, mule deer and both grizzly and black bears.
Just past the East Entrance, the St. Mary Visitor Center provides opportunities to meet staff rangers, learn about the park and see “the Backbone of the World” (as it’s called by the Blackfeet) through eyes of the Native Americans who call Glacier home.
The Lake Color: The silt is created when rocks underneath the surface of the ice are grinding from the movement of the glacier. The rock flour is very light and stays suspended in the lake water for a long time. The sunlight that reflects off these particles is what gives the lakes their spectacular turquoise blue or green color.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is an amazing and beautiful drive. It opened at midnight the first day we arrived and still had lots of snow.
If you plan to go, check online to make sure the road is open. It normally opens in June or July for the summer. Make sure to check out Logan’s Pass, the highest part of the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the highest elevation in the park that’s accessible by car.
As you travel on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you have numerous opportunities to see Jackson Glacier.
Yellowstone is home to nearly 1,000 grizzly bears and countless black bears. Make sure to stay at least 100 yards away, and whatever you do, don’t feed them! It’s illegal to feed the wildlife in Yellowstone.
Alyssa was proud to obtain a Junior Ranger badge. Junior Rangers take an oath to protect and learn about the National Parks, and they earn badges by completing activities.
LOGAN PASS
At 6,646 feet, Logan’s Pass is the highest elevation in the park reachable by car. As such, it’s a very popular destination and may be crowded, so get there early. Not only does it offer great views, but it’s also near the start of the Hidden Lake Trail and the Highline Trail.
Logan Pass is located along the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park, in the U.S. state of Montana. It is the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The pass is named after Major William R. Logan, the first superintendent of the park.
Many Glacier Hotel
Many Glacier Hotel is located along the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake inside Glacier National Park. The Great Northern Railroad built this historic hotel in 1915 to accommodate the many tourists passing through Glacier National Park. This quaint hotel provides world-famous scenery, with panoramic views of nearby Grinnell Point and Mt. Henkel. Many Glacier makes the perfect setting for fireside socializing, reading, and writing postcards. Many Glacier Hotel was built in 1914 and 1915 and is the largest hotel inside the park with 214 rooms. Its unique design was modeled after the Swiss chalets and the Swiss theme is carried throughout the hotel. The hotel was partially renovated in 2016.
TENNESSEE TOURISM INVITES TRAVELERS TO HIT THE BACK ROADS AND BYWAYS WITH NEW STATEWIDE ROAD CYCLING PROGRAM
Written by: Jenni Veal
Photos by: Brett Rothmeyer
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is inviting cyclists to experience Tennessee on 52 new curated road cycling routes that wind their way through the state’s picturesque landscapes. The new program, Bike Tennessee, launched in May at BikeTN.com and allows cyclists to engage with the routes using the app Ride with GPS.
“From our music to our makers, Tennessee is a state full of storytellers and our beauty is unmatched,” said Commissioner Mark Ezell, TDTD. “As travelers increasingly seek sustainable and authentic experiences, we invite them to explore our scenic routes and discover the charm of our small towns. We are pleased to partner with Ride with GPS and showcase the hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes that define our state.”
Tennessee has been named an Ambassador for popular cycling app Ride with GPS, making all 52 routes easily accessible across the platform. Each Bike Tennessee route was meticulously mapped, ensuring cyclists have access to detailed navigation and route information. Ride descriptions provide valuable information about the terrain, waypoints and hidden gems along the way, as well as modifications to tailor each ride to the individual.
TENNESSEE PARTNERS WITH POPULAR CYCLING APP
”Ride with GPS” to Make Routes Easily Accessible
The routes were created in collaboration with professional cycling guide Shannon Burke of Velo View Bike Tours, who brings more than a decade of experience leading cycling tours. Routes were selected with safety and scenery in mind, with 1,739 miles of routes mapped and 53 Tennessee counties included in the Bike Tennessee program. They offer seasoned cyclists mostly rural, low-traffic experiences in some of Tennessee’s most scenic and historic landscapes, including 14 routes in Tennessee State Parks.
“Tennessee has all the right ingredients to be one of the premier cycling destinations in the country—low-traffic backroads, welcoming
communities and stunning scenery,” said Shannon Burke. “It’s an amazing place to ride!”
The outdoor recreation economy generates $11.9 billion for Tennessee, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. Bike Tennessee aims to leverage the growing cycling community to increase visitation and economic impact throughout Tennessee.
Cyclists can learn more about Bike Tennessee and explore the available road cycling routes by visiting www.BikeTN.com. Join the conversation on social media using hashtag #BikeTN.
Photos by: Brett Rothmeyer
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors worldclass music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for travel inspiration.
Jenni Veal is the Rural Destination Development Manager for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
Jenni.Veal@tn.gov
c. 615-864-5848 tnvacation.com tn.gov/tourism
Fall
HAPPENINGS
MCMINN
PUMPKINTOWN
October 12th
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Historic Downtown Athens
Pumpkintown become one of the East Tennessee’s favorite festivals for the last 20 years with plenty of activities for young and old. Pumpkintown is planned and carried out by Friendly City Festivals and is free to the public. It celebrates the rich cultural history of East Tennessee. Native American culture and local history are displayed with elements that are unique and interesting for all ages. Pumpkintown is one of the largest annually attended events in McMinn County with almost 16,000 in attendance.
FriendlyCityFestivals.com/pumpkintown/ THE ARTS CENTER GRAND OPENING
September 8th
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The Arts Center 320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303
Our Board of Directors, Capital Campaign Committee, and staff invite campaign donors, Arts Partners, and arts enthusiasts to a grand opening celebration at The Arts Center. This event is free and open to the public. The event provides an opportunity to thank AACA donors and tour The Arts Center, discovering and imagining what is possible in our expanded facility. While patrons look back at the past four-and-a-half decades, they’ll be treated to a glimpse of a future bright with possibilities! Festivities start at 2:00 PM in the newly renovated Peggy Dow Performing Arts Center.
AthensArtsCouncil.org
September 9th through October 18th
The Arts Center
320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303
AthensArtsCouncil.org
LOOK AT WHAT YOU MADE US DO
September 13th through 14th
The Arts Center 320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303
This tribute concert takes the audience on a sonic tour through all the eras of Time magazine’s woman of the year with deep cuts and fan favorites brought to life by regional vocalists. *Family Night Show: radio edit versions of songs will be performed during the Friday concert.
AthensArtsCouncil.org
September 20th through 29th
Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
The Arts Center
320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303
Experience the last days of Willy Loman, a failing salesman, who cannot understand how he failed to win success and happiness.
AthensArtsCouncil.org
Opens September 21st 257 Hwy. 307 East Athens, TN 37303
In addition to their corn maze, try a zip line, ball zone, mountain slide, and more across 40 acres. This farm truly has it all!
MayfieldFarmPark.com
HERITAGE SCHOOL: EAST TENNESSEE PREHISTORIC CAVE ART
September 21st
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
McMinn County Living Heritage Museum 522 W Madison Ave Athens, TN 37303
Jan Simek, Distinguished Professor Emeritus and President Emeritus at the University of Tennessee, will present the story of Native American cave art and rock art in Tennessee and the Southeast. There are 100 known cave art sites in the region and more than 400 open rock art sites.
LivingHeritageMuseum.org
HISTORY FOR LUNCH: THE TIGERBELLES: OLYMPIC LEGENDS FROM TENNESSEE STATE
September 26th
12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
McMinn County Living Heritage Museum 522 W Madison Ave Athens, TN 37303
Join us for a presentation and book signing with Aime Alley Card, author of The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends of Tennessee State. Free admission.
LivingHeritageMuseum.org
Various Dates
1163 Hwy 11 North Athens, TN 37303
This year the Scream Chamber takes fear to a whole new level. After 200 years of death and murder within its walls, it is now guarded by the bodiless spirits that protect the Chamber of the Dead. If you’re ready to come face-toface with your deepest, darkest fears, they’ll be waiting for you.
TheScreamChamber.com
GREAT SMOKY MTN DOG CLUB SHOW
Oct. 18 - Oct. 20
McMinn County Layman Agricultural Exposition Center 2405 Decatur Pike, Athens, TN 37303, USA
McMinnCountyTN.gov/calendar.html
October 19th
7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Arts Center
320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303
This event treats audiences to an intimate evening of brass classics featuring the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s newlyformed brass quintet.
AthensArtsCouncil.org
CROONERS OF THE 1940S
November 8th through 9th
7 p.m.
The Arts Center
320 North White Street Athens, TN, 37303
Ahead of Veteran’s day, this “Crooners” reprise pays tribute to the music of World War II including the tight-knit harmonies popularized by the Andrews Sisters and more sounds that defined this period.
AthensArtsCouncil.org
KSO: AN EVENING OF BRASS
MONROE LIFE BALLOON FESTIVAL
August 31st through September 1st
4 p.m.
.576 Tennessee 360 Vonore, TN 37885
Join us for tethered balloon rides, live music, a dedicated Kids Zone, and much more!
MonroeLifeBalloonFestival.com
FOOD TRUCK MONDAYS
First Monday of Each Month
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
305 College St Madisonville, TN
Enjoy food from a huge variety of local food trucks, live music, and shopping with downtown merchants.
VisitMonroeTN.com/events
Thursday Evenings Through October
4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
305 College St Madisonville, TN
We are proud to have some of the best retail shops and restaurants around that you can visit each and every day, and now, with the addition of the weekly Madisonville Farmers & Makers Market, you can even get local foods, fresh from the garden. Visit the Market June through October to find fruits, veggies, meats, baked goods, plants, crafts and so much more!
Maple Lane Farms offers a 10-acres corn maze, hayrides, a pumpkin patch, sunflower fields, photo ops, a barn store, inflatables, campfires, corn hole, music and food in a beautiful mountain-view setting
TNMapleLaneFarms.com
August 27th
6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
350 Tellico St S Madisonville, TN, 37354
Get ready to make a splash at the Monroe County Prevention & Wellness Coalition’s 3rd Annual ‘Smash The Stigma’ Community Water Balloon Fight in honor of International Overdose Awareness Day!
MonroePWC.org/events/smash-the-stigma
CHEROKEE FALL FESTIVAL
September 7th through 8th
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
576 Tennessee 360, Vonore, TN 37885
The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum will host its 32nd annual Cherokee Fall Festival. Visitors will have the opportunity to step back in time to experience Native American food, Cherokee arts and crafts demonstrations, music and dance. In the museum, we will be demonstrating our 1800’s Acorn Printing Press. A blacksmith will be doing on-site demonstrations in the shop both days. Other demonstrations and displays will include Cherokee life in 1700s and a Civil War encampment.
SequoyahMuseum.org
MONROE
DOWNTOWN MADISONVILLE SCARECROW STROLL
October through November
Downtown Madisonville
A Madisonville Main Street program. Register your scarecrow during the month of September on the www.VisitMadisonvilleTN. com website. Set up to display in downtown during the month of October for the community to be able to vote on their favorites. Voting will be from October 1-November 10th. Winners will be announced at the Lighting of the Square event on November 29th. Help decorate downtown and you might win big!
VisitMadisonvilleTN.com/scarecrow-stroll
TASTE OF MONROE
October 14th
Historic Downtown Madisonville
Taste of Monroe highlights Monroe County’s best foods and beverages with a one-of-a-kind event for the whole family. The community has an opportunity to taste and sample the best entrees, desserts, beverages and vote for their favorites! In addition to all the savory foods and sweet treats, guest will also enjoy a Chamber Member Business Expo, Live Music by Sarah Williams, a Car & Motorcycle show plus entertainment for the kids!
MonroeCountyChamber.org
HALLOWEEN IN THE CITY
October 31st
Historic Downtown Madisonville
The Downtown Madisonville Alliance and the City of Madisonville have partnered together to host a Halloween Event! Enjoy Food Trucks, enter the Halloween Costume Contest.
October 26th
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Charles Hall Museum & Heritage Center
The 8th Annual Cherohala Skyway Festival has booth after booth of juried arts and crafts, lots of living history, and plenty of incredible food and treats! Test your axe throwing skills at On The Road Axe Throw trailer, paint a pumpkin, have your hand sculpted at Waxed Hands, and have your face painted! You’ll find lots of free festival fun like horse drawn wagon rides, a petting zoo, kids train rides, tractor-pulled hay rides, bounce houses, and live music.
SkywayFestival.com
September 6th through 7th
Legacy Horse Ranch
Rarity Bay, Vonore
Join CASA Monroe in their mission to buck child abuse with this non-profit event. Enjoy bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, bareback riding, and more, including a special appearance by Miss Rodeo USA.
CASAMonroe.org/events/casa-rodeo.html
CHEROHALA SKYWAY FESTIVAL
CHATTANOOGA HAPPY HOUR HALLOWEEN BAR CRAWL
October 19th
Time Location
Get ready to haunt the town at the spooktacular Fright Night Halloween Bar Crawl! Embark on an eerie expedition through the best bars in the ghostly heart of the city.
PubCrawls.com
September 21st through 22nd
Camp Jordan Amphitheater
323 Camp Jordan Parkway East Ridge, TN 37412
The Bacon Festival is an outdoor-only event with over 175 craft and commercial vendors, food vendors, entertainment on stage, trackless train rides, inflatables, a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, and more!
TouchTheSkyEvents.com
CHATTANOOGA BACON & BARREL FESTIVAL
September 27th
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
1826 Reggie White Blvd Chattanooga, TN 37408
Let’s get hog-wild as we bring together baconloving local restaurants and barrel-aged spirits from around the world to savor an evening of southern indulgence.
ChattanoogaFestivals.com/bacon
September 28h
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
197 Durham St. Soddy Daisy, TN 37379
Taste from an array of delicious food trucks, enjoy engaging kids’ games, and explore a diverse array of vendors. Experience community performances on our community stage, live music, and activities that are fun for all ages.
KeepSoddyDaisyBeautiful.org
CHATTANOOGA
HIP-HOP WEEK
October 6th through 12th
Time Location
Poetry, live music, fashion shows, a music conference, basketball tournament, and much more! Both kid-friendly and adult events all week!
ChattanoogaHipHopWeek.com
GATLINBURG
HARVEST FESTIVAL
September 4th through November 7th
Time
Location
Gatlinburg is rolling out all the stops with seasonal decorations. Gatlinburg Harvest Festival will also feature over-the-top fall displays including life-size, 3-dimensional scarecrow people.
The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair hosts Artisans and Craftsmen from all over the nation. Shop indoors among two hundred booths of unique, one-of-a-kind handmade products that are beautifully displayed for your shopping pleasure.
CraftsmenFair.com
GATLINBURG
DID YOU KNOW? AT ANY GIVEN TIME IN THE STATE, THERE ARE 100 MILLION PIECES OF LITTER ON TENNESSEE’S ROADWAYS. Keep McMinn Beautiful - Do your part to help pick it up!
