McMinn Life Holiday/Winter 2020 by Bingham Group

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

Life

A Triumphant Story DAVID JOHNSON WOOD CHARLIE BRAKEBILL

His Life and Legacy

Holiday Home Tour BY CODY GALBRAITH

YEARS IN BUSINESS

BRADEN’S

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

BUY ONE GET ONE! Buy One Item at Retail Price and Get the Second Item for

1 dollar

This is an amazing deal. Buy one item at manufacturer’s suggested retail, and buy the second item of equal or lesser value for only $1. Buy the finest mattress, and get a Stickley bed for a dollar! Buy a dining table, and get a buffet for a dollar!

THANK YOU, AND ENJOY THE SALE! 11105 Turkey Creek Drive • 865-777-4059 www.bradens.com Stressless is excluded from this event.

Volume 2, 2015

A magazine for the people of Farragut, West Knoxville & surrounding communities.

Seasonal Culinary Inspirations Truffle Ricotta Cheese Recipe With Chef Deron Little

KIPPY BROWN Behind The Scenes With

Seattle Seahawks Coach Kippy Brown And His Amazing Life Story

THE MUSCADINE FESTIVAL &

AIR BALLOONS 20 HOT

Tsali Notch Vineyard The Largest Muscadine Vineyard In The State Is Also The Prettiest!

DR. HAROLD BLACK

One Of The First African-Americans To Attend The University Of Georgia

Farragut_Summer_2015.indd 1

8/25/15 10:27 AM

T E N N E S S E E

HUNTING & TRAPPING GUIDE

EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2015 - JULY 31, 2016

» New White-Tailed Deer Buck Bag Limit: see page 25 » Hunter/Landowner Permission Card: see page 67 » New Hunter Education Field Day Exemption: see page 12

www.tnwildlife.org Follow us on:

Includes 2016 Spring Turkey Season

MARKETING • MEDIA • WEB DESIGN • TELEVISION

Community Health Services

YEARS OF BRANDING EXPERIENCE

YEARS OF IN-HOUSE TELEVISION PRODUCTION

CUSTOM MAGAZINES A YEAR

250

LOCAL AND NATIONAL ADDY AWARDS

NATIONAL BROADCAST TELLY AWARDS

W W W . B I N G H A M G R O U P . C O M • TEL: 865.523.5999 • 11921 KINGSTON PIKE • KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE 37934

DAY TRIP SHOPPING Sweetwater General Store Natural Elements Dogwood Lane

Contents features Under Canvas

NIOTA TRAIN DEPOT Join us as we celebrate the passage of the 19th Amendment

FAMILY HISTORY DAY

Beauty from Ashes:

HOSTED BY TENNESSEE STATE LIBRARY & ARCHIVES

DAVID WOODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TESTIMONY

CHARLIE BRAKEBILL Limitless Life

Holiday Home Tour

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS, WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

departments 6 From The Publisher 7 Letter From City Manager Seth Sumner 20 East Tennessee Foundation Legacy Awards

LEGACYBOX

American Holly CEDAR WAXWING

This Chattanooga company is the world’s largest digitizer of home movies and photos.

Small Business Focus 46 Rather & Kittrell 48 We Love It

Your life is a series of tr Getting through them is easier

Rather & Kittrell started when two guys shared a commitment to what seemed to them like some pretty obvious ideas about money - how client relationships, trust and guidance were more important than “selling” for short-term gain. Put simply, “If we take care of people, our business will take care of itself.” It struck a nerve.

25 2019

Hal - Age 56 TRANSITION STORY: Hal has spent his entire career building a business. He’s lived and breathed it since he was 24. Now it’s paid off. The money from the sale of his business allows him to retire. So, now what? He’s been so focused on building the business that he’s not sure how to plan for the next phase of his life.

Nearly 20 years later, based on the steadfast belief that people’s stories matter, a two desk business has grown into an awardwinning SEC-registered investment advisory firm serving successful individuals, families and businesses. We lead clients through the transitions that inherently come with money.

HOLIDAY/ WINTER McMINN LIFE Call or email us today to write2020 your story.

s cause to pause and reflect, counting blessings and gifts received. The greatest being the birth r Savior, our Father God loved us so much that he sent his only begotten Son so that we t have life everlasting. He also sent three precious gifts to our family, each season is sweeter my beautiful girls, Kathryn, Kelsey and Alyssa. Celebrating the blessings with family and friends, ing traditions from my childhood with my children is a mirror which always reflects love.

ksgiving is upon us, I am grateful for so many beautiful blessings in my life. Thank you for ing us to bring stories of the amazing people and places that make East Tennessee great. In sue, we share about the friendlist place in America and it is located right in downtown Knoxville. k out the amazing Charlie Rhodarmer of the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore, he een bringing history to life for years are we are thrilled to share his story.

Publisher

will also have the opportunity to tour the home of Gary & Karen Braden, owners of Braden’s yle Furniture in Turkey Creek. The timeless home is decorated for the holidays inspiring us create a cozy, full of love, Tennessee Christmas. Thanks to Chelsa and Tina Harris for sharing olidayand theme weddingdecor of Chelsea and Drew. This holiday issue is full of love, beauty and revail the christmas abounds... ng with others. gifts received. The greatest being the birth

From the Publisher

he sent his only begotten Son so that we gifts to ourCheck family, out eachthe season is sweeter gift ideas? holiday market in this issue, shop local and let them know you saw rating theLife. blessings family and friends, Farragut Howwith about a vacation or day trip? In this issue, the Holiday Getaway ideas are n is a mirror whichany always reflects love.we hope that our ideas inspire you to explore close to flowing. Choose length of time,

Lisa Atkins-Bingham

e or far away this holiday.

autiful blessings in my life. Thank you for places that make East Tennessee great. In s issue, you will learn about the amazing technology allowing the color blind to see the nd it is located right in downtown Knoxville. saying: towards the light, ging colors of our mountains.It’s Wean haveold a new Governor“Aim and First Lady, it has been a greatand the shadows will fall behind you.” Watching uoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore, he rilled to get to know Bill and Maria Lee over this year. As the year comes to a close may we all take to share his story. the blazing sun rise over the crashing waves and blackness of night was a reminder that

ment to express appreciation to Governor Bill Haslam for being a great leader. There are so wonderful in owners this issue of Farragut Life. Be sure to enjoy all of the wonderful holiday Gary & Karenstories Braden, of Braden’s our All Powerful the Creator of All, and that no matter the chaos, the pain, the area hasfortothe offer. Most inspiring of all, remember the reasonGod for thisisseason. esisour decorated holidays us

hanks to Chelsa and Tina Harris uncertainty for sharing we may feel at times, the sun will always rise, a new day will always begin, and you warm Merrybeauty Christmas isngholiday issueblessings, is full of love, and and Happy New Year.

God will always destroy the darkness and the pestilence that stalks at night with His Light. Christmas Eve at my

ue, shop local and let them know you saw

- Facebook post from David Johnson Wood. Grandparents with all the McKees.

this issue, the Holiday Getaway ideas are Bingham our of ideas you to explore close toof Monroe, McMinn & Farragut Life Magazines dent Theinspire Bingham Group, Publisher

t year we are starting a profile series as we enter the 10th anniversary of the recession, we have a There is so much to do in East Tennessee consider the triumphant story of those dark ology colorleaders blind to who see thetruly at lineallowing up ofthe local will talk about thriving, not just surviving days.

vernor and First Lady, it has been a great David Johnson Wood a gift for the holiday s the year comes to a close may we all take season slam for being a great leader. There are so to anyone who has been in pain and sure to enjoy all of the wonderful holiday is starting life anew. There is always a new reason for this season.

py New Year.

day, and The Bingham Group is privileged to be able to share David’s story of how his fall from grace led to a rebirth in Christ and a Christmas Eve at my spectacularly successful career. Grandparents with all the McKees.

over the holidays. Discover Christmas festivals, get inspired with decorating ideas and find opportunities to be generous with your donations. Christmas truly is a season of giving, and it is always good to share a bit of the Christmas spirit with those who are less fortunate.

, McMinn & Farragut Life Magazines

We areofalso towe feature veteran we enter the 10th anniversary the proud recession, have another a about thriving, not just surviving those dark days.Brakebill. Locals might in this issue: Charlie know him as die-hard Volunteer and former head of fundraising for the University of Tennessee, but he was also a war veteran with many stories to tell. Within these pages, you will learn more about his life and legacy.

As always, I am incredibly grateful for our advertisers – without you, we would not be able to share these incredible stories. And as the holidays approach, I am also grateful for time spent with my precious daughters. Merry Christmas from all of us at The Bingham Group.

Life PUBLISHER

The Bingham Group President Lisa Atkins Bingham Art Director Brett Hawkins Graphic Designer Brett Hawkins Lisa Atkins Bingham Contributing Writers CeCe Owens Chris Kittrell Gayle Fisher Jennifer Porterfield Julie Lofland Seth Sumner Sydnee Brashears Contributing Photographers Brett Hawkins Cody Galbraith Lisa Bingham Robert Burleson Wes Wheeler Advertising Sales Mignonne Alman Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com Chris McLaren Tel: 865.523.5999 chris@binghamgroup.com

THE CHRISTMAS AMARYLLIS ON THE COVER IS IN HONOR OF

Betty Smallin-Roberts 1936-2019 My Aunt Betty spent her life creating beautiful floral arrangements and bouquets. She warmed our hearts in many ways.

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Tel: 865.523.5999 www.mcminnlife.com

The Bingham Group, Inc. 11921 Kingston Pike, Suite 201 Knoxville, Tennessee 37934 www.binghamgroup.com www.mcminnlife.com

A Letter From City Manager

Event Calendar: November 30 Christmas Past, Present, and Future

America’s Shop Small Saturday, Old Fashioned Downtown Christmas, Athens Christmas Parade, McMinn County’s Bicentennial Celebration Where: Historic Downtown Athens

December 5 Etowah Christmas Parade December 7 Etowah Lighting of Christmas Tree Niota Christmas Parade Copperhill Christmas Parade Ducktown Christmas Parade December 8 Englewood Christmas Parade December 14 Etowah Community Christmas Concert Benton Christmas Parade

C. SETH SUMNER Howdy friends! I hope all is well with you and your family as we are nearing the beginning of 2020.

the best long-term outcomes for all of our citizens. Working to make our place even more special.

Placemaking is a term that has resurfaced in popularity as of late. Citizens working together, collaborating, spending their own time and money to improve their special spaces in the universe, mostly for the benefit of others. Yet Tennesseans rank at the bottom of public engagement across the Republic.

In October, Athens hosted 16 guests as part of the International Placemaking Conference. We toured Athens’ arts assets and asked the guests to provide feedback during their visit to the Athens Arts Center, LITE House and Muriel Mayfield Gallery at Tennessee Wesleyan University. It was a pleasure to see and hear from guests, some from as far away as New Zealand, their perspective of our Friendly City.

Over the last few months, as an exercise in good management and good governance, I have been working to be more cognizant of the voices that are missing from our conversations as a way of ensuring we are doing all we can to bring everyone to the placemaking table. We understand that a government functions best the nearer it is to its stakeholders. The great thing about the Friendly City’s form of government, Council-Manager, is that the people are the government, and we have the clarity, checks and balances that come with a true three branches – executive (City Manager), legislative (Council), and judicial (City Judge). All voices need to be heard; that is why our processes and committee system rely on citizen engagement: Citizens actively involved and serving to help guide my staff and the elected officials toward

The Thrive Project and Main Street are exactly what civic pride and engagement looks like, placemakers, citizens working to make their community a greater and more beautiful place. Giving their own time and resources, taking the extra steps, not to complain, but to achieve something. Following a dream – a vision. Directing the future of our place. Let’s all be placemakers and work day in and day out to make our household, our neighborhood, our district, and our city a greater, more beautiful place than we found it. That is the Athenian Oath, and should be expected of all who enjoy living in this special place. Is your voice being heard, are you helping to make our City a cooler place? Please share your hopes and dreams with us. HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

Holiday Homes Tour

Local designer Rebecca Maples of Rebecca Maples Interiors, along with Dawn Pfundston, enjoy bringing a little holiday cheer to their clients by helping them decorate their homes for Christmas. Take a photographic tour through three stunning homes to get inspiration for your holiday decorations this Christmas season!

Brown House Photography by Cody Galbraith

At the house of Ann and Marty Brown, Rebecca and Dawn chose to go with an upscale farmhouse theme to match the look of the house, which has authentic knotty pine floors. The homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design, as well as the Christmas decorations, feature owls -- the owners even have a real-life owl that comes to visit from time to time! From the pinecone-adorned Christmas tree to the sled and welcome sign (personalized touches added by Mrs. Brown herself), this farmhouse Christmas home exudes holiday elegance and cheer.

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

Croley House Photography by Cody Galbraith

For Ross and Sara Croley, the theme was definitely not your standard, traditional red and green. On a trip to Venice, the couple found a beautiful chandelier, which now hangs over their dining room table. That chandelier was the inspiration for the design of the entire interior of the home...as well as the Christmas decorations! Rebecca and Dawn carried the beach glass colors in the Croleysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home design into their Christmas decorations, wrapping the magnificent spiral staircase in a unique mixture of blue-green and orange. Sara also showed her own keen eye for design by decorating the large tree by the fireplace herself.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

Stinnett House Photography by Cody Galbraith

The Stinnett family enjoys living the farm life, and Rebecca and Dawn incorporated that farmhouse style into the decorations in their home, as well. The pheasant feathers and plaid accents help drive home the theme, while snow-dusted pinecones bring the outdoors in. We left spaces on their tree for them to work in their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite keep sakes. This family-friendly, country home Christmas decor is perfect for celebrating the season with cherished loved ones. 14

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

1911 S CONGRESS PARKWAY ATHENS TENNESSEE â&#x20AC;¢ 423-745-2630

Saturday Clinic is now open 9am -12pm

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

& BRYANT LAND CATTLE

215 Total Acres For Sale 175 Acres in Grass

LOCATED IN THE SWEETWATER VALLEY AT 16365 BLUE SPRINGS ROAD, PHILADELPHIA TN 37846 IN ROANE COUNTY 8.1 MILES FROM I-75 AT EXIT 62

MAIN BARN 70” x 90”

HAY STORAGE BARN 350 - 400 Round Bales 40’ x 100’ Level rock floor Insulated roof

Concrete foundation 4’ Masonry walls East wing under-roof head gate

6” WATER MAIN ACROSS

West wing concrete with a 40-station feed way

FRONT OF PROPERTY.

When I retired from the boat manufacturing business in 2012 after 51 years, I wanted to build my dream farm. In the summer of 2012, I purchased 215 acres that had been in the Price family for years but, in the past thirty years, had not been worked. I love to operate heavy equipment, so I soon bought a 963 Cat loader and rented a nearly new D6 Cat dozer. I started at the front on Blue Springs Road, the process of reclaiming the property. As each area was cleared, I soil tested and brought the PH up to specs with lime. I planted a mixture of Fescue, Rye, Orchard grass and Red Clover on the cleared ground. Today, I have approximately 175 plus acres in pasture. There are two year-round creeks that transverse the farm. Most pastures have Ritche Waterers with underground l” sch. 40 PVC waterline. With my age and no one to continue, it is simply time to sell.

423.337.3639 WWW.BRYANTLANDANDCATTLE.COM

BUILDINGS • Buildings on the farm were built by Gunn Construction • Main barn is 70’ x 90’, concrete foundation with 4’ masonry walls. All wiring is in conduit and up to commercial code • The corral holding area is very convenient to work cattle • East wing houses the underroof head gate, scales and the rotating crowd work area • West wing side is concrete with a 40-station feed way • Last but not least is the cabinoffice with bunk beds, pot-belly woodstove, kitchen, bath & covered porch that overlooks much of the farm.

• Sheds (8) in the pastures for shade. They are 32’ x 24’ and built to high standards

FENCE • 15,000 feet of perimeter fence, 52” 12 gauge woven wire with top strand of barbed wire • Corner posts are 6 5/8 galvanieed steel post • Inline pull posts are 4” galvanized with 2 x 2” brace post • 2” L4 gauge tube with 2xZx3116 ends • Gates are powder coated

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS IN

Etowah

Shop

Play

2019 Board of Directors Standing left to right: Wade Shultz, Board President Rush Guthrie, Sandra Guthrie, Nancy Strasser, Alfreda Tilley, Margaret Bohannon, Jonathan Pierce. Sitting left to right: Walter Barham, Tom Strasser, Freddie Womac, Mike Gentry, Dick Hashe.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

Athens City Schools

Did You Know??? Athens City Schools has been named an Exemplary School District for State of Tennessee for the second consecutive year in a row. This recognition is for outstanding student success in achievement and growth. Athens City exceeds state average in grades 3-8 on track/mastered percentages in English/Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies. The information below highlights the Academic Growth for students in 2018-2019. One of only seven districts repeating as Exemplary in the state. Level 5 Composite (highest attainable). Exceeds state average in grades 3-8 on track/mastered percentage in English/Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies. Rank #1 in grades 3-8 English/Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies “All Students” on track/mastered percentage among 16 districts in Southeast Tennessee. Rank 20th in grades 3-8 English/Language Arts “All Students” on track/mastered percentage among all districts in Tennessee. Rank 28th in grades 3-8 Math “All Students” on track/mastered percentage among all districts in Tennessee. Athens City Middle School was designated as a Reward School. A reward status is the top distinction a school can earn in Tennessee. Reward Schools are those that are improving overall student academic achievement and student growth for all students and for student groups (300 of 1763 schools). At Athens City Schools, we are proud of these accomplishments and strive to continue for Excellence every day in the classroom for all our students. These accomplishments would not be possible without the dedication of our teachers, staff, students, parents, and community. Every day students are provided a whole child approach of education that includes the skills for academic, social, emotional, and physical needs. Each school has active family engagement committees, PTO’s, adopt-a-school partners, and community organizations that partner together with our schools to meet the needs for students. Partnering together with the school helps us make a larger impact on the students’ education. Athens City is so appreciative of the volunteers that help out in our schools throughout the school year. Athens City Schools invite you to schedule an appointment to take a tour in one of our schools to see the great things happening in the classroom. Excellence Is…Athens City Schools. Julie Lofland, Athens City Schools Family Engagement Coordinator HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

cOngratulatiOns to all 2019 honorees

outstanding philanthropist lynda neWton

outstanding foundation holston conference foundation

for

outstanding corporate philanthropist blount memorial hospital

Outstanding vOlunteer fundraiser joel W. connell

outstanding youth in philanthropy k appa delta sorority

ThoughTful giving

2019 legacy award for outstanding philanthropic leadership mike mcclamroch

fundraising professional of the year bill may

stronger communities

and

better lives

City of Niota, Train Depot Event January 31, 2020 & February 1, 2020

The City of Niota, TN, invites you to join us as we celebrate the passage of the 19th Amendment – Women’s Right to Vote. Festivities begin on Friday, January 31, 2020, at 11:30 a.m. with the unveiling of the new 19th Amendment Memorial Mural done by a local artisan, Jade Lewis, and continuing on Saturday, February 1, 2020, at 11:30 a.m.,

at the Niota Depot. Many events including Period dress, old fashion photos and a 1920’sera women’s job fair are just a few of the activities celebrating the 19th Amendment. Of the Niota mural celebrating the centennial for women’s right to vote I can only say, “I am extremely happy for the city. A truly

pivotal moment in history such as this deserves to be celebrated proudly, publicly and permanently. This art will be a source of community pride for years and will show future generations that small towns have a lot to offer and one voice can truly impact the world.” Scott Schröeder

Niota Train Depot Restoration November 2, 2019, the City of Niota held a Dedication Ceremony of the Restored Niota Train Depot and the Niota Celebration of McMinn County’s 200th Anniversary. The Train Depot is the oldest standing depot in

the state of Tennessee. It is rich in history, from its origination in 1854 to its name change of Mouse Creek to Niota 1897 due to undelivered ice cream...and at the end of the Civil War, Union and Confederate Soldiers

took refuge inside. You can still see the signatures and the gun ports created by the soldiers. We are proud of our town and of the service the Depot as offered throughout the years.

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

DOGWOOD LANE Dogwood Lane, owned by Kelly Manisealco, showcases a curated collection of trendy and timeless fashion, with a hint of downtown edge. They strive to provide chic, up-to-date style at an affordable price. Let them help you put together a look for day or night, update your home with a beautiful accessory or pick out the perfect gift! If you need a break after enjoying the eclectic items curated by Kelli at Dogwood Lane, check out the latest book by her sister, Kerri! Capturing the Devil is the thrilling conclusion to Kerriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stalking Jack the Ripper series. We are incredibly proud that both Kelli and Kerri call Sweetwater home! 107 E Morris Street, Sweetwater www.dogwoodlaneboutique.com

SWEETWATER GENERAL STORE A recent addition to downtown Sweetwater, Sweetwater General is located right next door to Hunter’s Café and carries an assortment of gifts. You will be greeted with welcoming scents as soon as you walk through the door, as well as gorgeous handmade pottery (made by the husband of the store’s owner!) The store carries brands that are tough to find in Sweetwater, like Two Left Feet Sock Company and vegan, handmade soaps from the Buck Naked Soap Company. Displays throughout the store include children’s clothing, unique gifts and seasonal displays. Don’t miss out on this new addition for your holiday shopping needs! 103 E Morris Street, Sweetwater

NATURAL ELEMENT INTERIORS

If your house just doesn’t quite feel like home, then Natural Element Interiors is here to help! Located in downtown Sweetwater, Fairy Lambert’s store is part inspiration, part consultation. The physical store has an array of furniture and decor pieces to help inspire

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

you on your quest to create a welcoming and appealing space in your home. And Fairy and her skilled design staff are also available if you’d like a consultation or full-service interior design assistance. Taking into account scale, proportion, balance and harmony, they will use their knowledge and experience to help make your home

comfortable, beautiful and functional. Visit Natural Element Interiors at 211 North Main Street, or find them on the web at www. naturalelementinteriors.com.

American Red Cross Volunteers needed throughout Tennessee to Respond to Home Fires and Other Disasters Most of the 62,000 emergencies that the Red Cross responds to each year are local disasters like home fires. Trained and available, Disaster Action Team volunteers are ready to respond to these emergencies, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. While the Tennessee Region is lucky to have such highly skilled volunteers, the need for more disaster volunteers is great in many of the state’s more rural areas. This is especially true as the state has increasing numbers of local house fire clients for the fall and winter. American Red Cross volunteers arrive on scene after first responders to help those with critical needs after a fire has heavily damaged or destroyed a home or apartment. “We have several counties that may only have one or two Disaster Action Team volunteers that live in the area,” said Joel Sullivan, Regional Executive for the American Red Cross of the Tennessee Region. “The need is

great in the small communities for people who are willing to help. We need more volunteers who care about others and are willing to step up and make a difference for their neighbors.” Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and complete a volunteer application, including a background check. Required training is provided free of charge. “There is a volunteer job for anyone who wants one,” Sullivan added. “These people help their neighbors on what is definitely their darkest of days. Volunteers are there to hold their hand, help them fill out important documents and connect them with services to get them back on their feet after a fire. It

is a very important job and one our disaster action team members do very well.” Red Cross assistance to families may include resources for emergency lodging, food, clothing, replacement of prescription medication, emotional support, and help connecting with other agencies that may provide ongoing assistance. To find out more information on how you can volunteer for the Red Cross in your community as a Disaster Action Team member, go to RedCross.org/Volunteer. You can search your location for available volunteer opportunities. The need for DAT volunteers is immediate in the following chapters: East Tennessee Chapter, Heart of Tennessee Chapter, MidSouth Chapter, Mid-West Chapter, Nashville Area Chapter, Northeast Tennessee Chapter, Southeast Tennessee Chapter, Tennessee River Chapter, and the American Red Cross – Fort Campbell.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. Get Involved The Red Cross depends on the generous support of the American public to fulfill its humanitarian mission. To support our lifesaving work, please consider volunteering or making a donation by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 gift.

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

Linda’s Cafe

A Christmas Gift for You! The ladies of the Temple Baptist Church compiled these dessert recipes from dishes they prepared for our annual Pastor’s College. Get your FREE* copy of this spiral-bound collection of dessert recipes with the purchase any one of our Christmas books before November 30th!

Home Cooked Meals Cafeteria Style. Plus Full Menu.

Breakfast Served All Day

Homemade Desserts Carry Out Available Private Room for Special Events & Meetings Monday - Friday 8am–3pm

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

FREE WITH PURCHASE

Let Us Go to Bethlehem is a heartwarming paperback book with six chapters each reminding us of the greatest gift of Christmas! Use this study in your Sunday School class, Bible Study group, or personal devotions. May your heart and home be stirred as you think on the love and goodness of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! A Christmas Gift for You! The ladies of the Temple Baptist Church compiled these dessert recipes from dishes they prepared for our annual Pastor’s College. Get your FREE* copy of this spiral-bound collection of dessert recipes with the purchase any one of our Christmas books before November 30th!

FREE WITH PURC

Tennessee State Library and Archives Hosts “Family History Day” and Genealogy Workshop Sat, November 30, 2019 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM CST NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Thanksgiving is a time to reconnect with family members and share stories. At the Tennessee State Library and Archives, families can also explore stories of their relatives during a free “Family History Day” workshop the Saturday after Thanksgiving. “The Tennessee State Library and Archives is a great resource for families to learn about their families, especially during the holiday season when we gather with loved ones,” Secretary of State Tre Hargett said. “This workshop is the perfect opportunity for families to come together and explore the vast resources of the state archives.” Archivist and professional genealogist, Melissa Barker, will lead the workshop called Family Gatherings: Dragging Genealogy Information Out of Your Family. Guests will learn tips and tricks to encourage family

members to share their family history this holiday season. Melissa Barker is the Certified Archives Manager, currently working as the Houston County, Tennessee Archivist. Barker writes a popular blog entitled A Genealogist in the Archives and is the Reviews Editor for the Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS) magazine FORUM.

workshop, staff members and volunteers from the Friends of the Tennessee State Library and Archives will be on hand to help visitors with their research. While the workshop is free, reservations are required due to limited seating. To make a reservation, go to www.eventbrite. com/e/family-history-day-at-tsla-tickets-79156169233. Please note, the Library and Archives will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 28 and Friday, Nov. 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday, so it is important to make reservations beforehand.

The workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. CDT Saturday, Nov. 30 in the Library and Archives auditorium. After the

The Library and Archives is located at 403 Seventh Avenue North, directly west of the State Capitol building in downtown Nashville. Parking is available around the Library and Archives building. 403 7th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37243

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

Charlie Brakebill

“We bobbed like a floater on a fishing pole for a day; the sea was too rough to take us ship to shore. It’s not gonna look good to get one of these military boats stuck, you know.” It is the simple explanation of how Charlie Brakebill landed on Omaha Beach in World War II. A native of Madisonville, Brakebill entered the U.S. Army at 18 years of age, serving three years in Europe during WWII. Little over four months past the invasion at Normandy, Charlie found himself walking up the steep hill to the unforgettable sight of over 15,000 white crosses of American graves. “Wow, what an introduction to France,” he thought.

Charlie grew up in Madisonville and, as a child, attending primary school on the grounds of Hiwassee College. He recounts fondly the student teachers that taught and cared for the students; one in particular gave a gift to Charlie that was so cherished it remained in his living room until leaving for college. By the look on his face as he shares, you know this was a special time. Moving on

to Madisonville High School, another teacher would have a lasting impact, professor R.W. Howard, whose influence set a passion in Charlie to attend college and become an educator of Vocational Agriculture. With a goal in sight, he set about with determination following his high school graduation in May 1942 and enrolled at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

April 6,1943, he arrived at Ft. Oglethorpe, Georgia. Just before his arrival to base, a chance encounter would begin a lifelong friendship, one that would set the path of his unforgettable legacy. At the top of the Incline Railway in Chattanooga, Charlie Brakebill met Ed Boling, a fellow UT student also headed to military service. The impact of this friendship is still felt today.

WWII Graves in France

At the time of entering college, the draft age for the war was 20, which indicated his education would not be interrupted. However, that changed on October 7th, and Charlie welcomed the birthday that signified eligibility to be drafted. Under the advisement of his college roommate’s father, Charlie enter the Enlisted Reserve Corps and was sworn into the U.S. Army on December 12, 1942. It was the following spring before Charlie received orders to report, and on

Following weeks of training, Charlie and Ed headed to Fort McClellan in Anniston, Alabama, where new troops trained for the fighting in North Africa. The next stage was assignment to ASTP, the Army Specialized Training Program located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. By March 1944, Charlie was receiving a battery of testing and enrolled in some engineering classes at the University of Alabama, and by April 1944, he was assigned to the 1675th Engineering Utilities Detachment at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

Ed Boling had also been shipped to Camp Claiborne, reuniting the close friends briefly. Charlie was building Bailey Bridges in Louisiana on D-Day, June 6, 1944, remaining at the base into August, when following a quick trip home, he was in Boston boarding the USS Wakefield heading to Liverpool, England. “I was granted a short leave home, then took a troop train into Boston. Ed was there, as well. We said hello and goodbye, and I boarded the ship,” reflected Charlie, “only to turn around to see Ed again.”

Once in Liverpool, Charlie’s engineering unit was immediately ordered to board a small British ship crossing the English Channel to Normandy. “We left the Wakefield and boarded a train for a 12-hour ride through blacked-out countryside,” Charlie continued. “Ed was headed to London, only to my surprise, there he was walking up the gang plank of that boat crossing the channel.” They would arrive and then again say goodbye on Omaha Beach shores some three months after D-Day, and neither would ever forget the sights and sounds.

Charlie with his wife Joyce and his two children, Linda Brakebill Bilderbach Norris and Larry Brakebill.

Charlie with his Loudon High School F.F.A. class in 1949. Next photo: U.S.Army soldiers Ed Boling, left, and Charlie Brakebill are pictured near Rennes, France, in March 1945. Brakebill served in an engineering detachment first assigned to the 94th Infantry Division and later to the 66th ‘Black Panther’ Division. Boling was in the 1783rd Engineer Parts Supply Company. Right: Ed Boling, left, and Charlie Brakebill were proud University of Tennessee graduates in 1948. Boling earned a business degree. Brakebill, who grew up on a farm near Madisonville, was an agricultural education graduate. The photo was made at Boling’s house, 1819 Highland Avenue. (Charlie Brakebill/Special to the News Sentinel)

Coded message to his mother letting her know where he was stationed. Location revealed using 6 letters to her, changing the middle initial each time to spell out RENNES. HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

On May 8, 1945, the war in Europe ended and Charlie would be going home. It was July 4th when the ship bringing him back to the United States viewed the Statue of Liberty. Home on a 30-day leave, Charlie was in Madisonville when the Atomic Bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The war was not over. At Fort Belvoir in Virginia, he and fellow servicemen took a break from the intense training for the planned invasion of Japan and traveled to Washington, D.C. On August 14, 1945, while enjoying dinner at the famous Willard Hotel, their waitress announced that Japan had surrendered. Charlie was actually in Lafayette Park, across from the White House, when President Truman threw his arms upward announcing victory. “The President came out. So did Mrs. Truman and their daughter, Margaret. They were not 50 yards from us,” remembered Charlie. With the war over, he returned to UT and graduated with a degree in agricultural education in 1948. That same year, Charlie married, and Ed Boling was his best man. Following graduation, Charlie taught Vocational Agriculture at Loudon High School. After teaching for three years, Brakebill was commissioned by the U.S. Air Force to serve on active duty for which he continued serving in the Tennessee National Guard until his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1967. In 1962, Ed Boling, who was the University of Tennessee’s first vice president for development, convinced UT that his best friend from World War II should join him in the new development office. Charlie became UT’s Director of Gifts and Grants.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

Military service may have ended, but the friendship continued to grow and so did the dedicated service to community, state and alma-mater. Charlie and Ed returned home from WWII to serve their state and university side by side, resulting in an impact that is immeasurable. Brakebill was the principal architect of the university’s nationally recognized fundraising program, retiring in 1996. And that best friend, Boling would become the most beloved university president, guiding the institution into the statewide system of today, retiring in 1988 after serving the longest term in school history.

The legacy is vast for Charlie and the University of Tennessee, who had big smiles as he shared amazing details. “Did you know I was the model for the Torchbearer,” he asked. “If not for me, that statue would just be something on campus, not the landmark of today.” The details of that story are almost as famous as the statue. So it goes that in the late 1960s, the campus planner took Charlie with a true to size cutout of the Torchbearer to a location. He was then asked to hold it as the planner drove around it. As embarrassment was taking hold, the planner traded places, asking Charlie to drive around. After it was all over, Brakebill

Left to Right: Ed Boiling, Charlie Brakebill, Andy Holt, & Joe Johnson

was asked to convince his bestie, Dr. Ed Boling, to override the architect and move the statue to its very visible location, and that is exactly what happened. The iconic Torchbearer is in its proper place, burning bright as a campus beacon, a popular place for graduation pictures, and ground zero for the pregame activities on UT home football Saturdays when the Vol Walk passes it.

In preparation for the meeting, Charlie has some big concerns and went to Ed, saying, “I don’t know much about Hollywood, but every actor or actress I’ve seen has got a cigarette in one hand and an alcoholic drink in the other.” With both of them thinking no deal would even be considered without before dinner drinks, the two convinced the university to approve the purchase of bourbon, scotch and gin for the meeting.

Charlie will tell you it is about opportunities, making the most of any chance to build a relationship. Being willing to walk through every door that opened set in motion the relationships that built Brakebill and then allowed him to set the same in motion for others. Charlie was primarily responsible for the $12 million endowment from the noted Hollywood director that established the Clarence Brown Theater. Back in 1967, the university was seeking funds for the construction of a new theater and made arrangements for Ed Boling and Charlie to meet with Movie Director Clarence Brown in California.

When the drink was offered to Brown, he responded with, “Young man, I’ve been out here this long, and I haven’t taken a drink of alcohol during that time, so I don’t think I’m going to start tonight,” Brakebill recalled. What seemed to be an ending became the start of a relationship “opportunity” with Charlie and his wife often welcoming the Browns as family in Tennessee. The Clarence Brown Theatre for the Performing Arts was formally dedicated in November of 1970, with the Browns in appearance. Several times, Brown called the occasion one of the greatest moments of his life.

Photos Right: A rendering of the Clarence Brown Theatre and Clarence Brown. The Brown’s often visited with the Brakebills when in East Tennessee. The last photo is at Charlie’s retirement party from the University of Tennessee.

OM AHA B EACH

Just mention the name Charlie Brakebill, and instantly it is connected with service, a life spent serving family, friends, community, state and country. He continues to make an unforgettable impact, if you want to know about that, just ask him, because he hasn’t forgotten anything, anyone or any time of his remarkable life. It is an honor to know him, talk to him share a laugh, but most of all, it is a priceless treasure to salute this Veteran, who continues to serve!

Charlie cold at Omaha beach. He originally came in on a landing craft and spent 48 hours waiting to land due to 8-10 ft waves. With him is his grandaughter Erin Pate fulfilling a goal of walking on Omaha Beach with her Papaw. (Charlie first landed on Omaha Beach in September of 1944, three months after D-day.

The ground above the cliffs is still “mogul-like” due to the artillery and grenades from 1944.

The Brakebills with Tennessee Ernie Ford.

Brandenburg gate in Berlin

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

While repairing a roof of a bombed-out building in Rennes, Charlie Brakebill (at upper left in hat) and a crew of engineers saw a family struggling to get a piano into a 2nd floor apartment. They climbed down and moved the piano for the Guillard family, and Charlie met the daughter, Anthelmette Gullard.

B OOKS ARE A VA IL A B L E ON AM AZO N

Charlie (Left) putting his engineering education to work repairing building damaged from war in France.

THE PIANO LOVE AFFAIR Prior to the Japan invasion, Charlie was stationed in France when he came to the aid of a young woman and her family. He helped them lift a piano into their home…and thus began a brief and seemingly improbably love affair. The young Frenchwoman, Anthelmette, and her family welcomed Southern farm boy Charlie into their home for dinners, and she and the GI from Tennessee would often go on strolls together on the weekends. The

two kept in touch after Charlie returned to the States but eventually married other people and moved on with their lives. In 2013, however, Charlie was reconnected with Anthelmette’s family. She had passed away in 2007, but he flew to France to meet her family and pay his respects at her gravesite. This sweet story was the subject of an autobiography and, more recently, a short film.

Charlie visits Anthelmette’s grave. Upon arriving in Rennes, they were met at the train station by Anthelmette’s children. Left to Right: Maryse and Bernard Letourneux, Charlie and Soazig Padovani. A wonderful welcome followed by tea and treats in the Bernard’s home.

Anthelmette and Charlie in Thabor Gardens, May 1, 1945. Middle photo: Anthelmette Gullard Letourneux at the beach circa 1951. This photo was mailed to Charlie by Soazig in 2013. Last: Charlie and Anthelmette with repaired roof in back. The Piano Love Affair was turrned into a film directed by Gabe McCauley. Many WWII films and stories present the battles, but Charlie’s story shows another side of our G.I.s’ lives. In France, it was common for our soldiers to date, which served to alleviate the daily uncertainty, fear, loneliness, and ugliness of the war. Charlie and Anthelmette’s purity and humility, the end of their relationship, and what happened nearly 70 years later, makes their story unique and beautiful. The short film won several awards at this year’s Knoxville Film Festival.

T HA NK YO U T O

2019

The 7th Annual Monroe Life Balloon Fiesta Returned To East Tennessee At The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum And Was A Huge Success!

The Balloon Glow choreographed to music even had a surprise appearance by Elvis during “Blue Suede Shoes.” 34

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

A L L OUR W O ND E RF U L SP ONSO R S ! It has always been the goal of the Balloon Fiesta to showcase Monroe County and assist the organizations, individuals and non-profits who directly impact the lives of disadvantaged babies, children or youth. Surrounded by the spectacular mountain views on the shores of the beautiful Tellico Lake, The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum is the perfect

Recipient of Money Raised

Monroe County

location for all ages to enjoy this fun, family event.

Monroe County Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office and Monroe County Tourism HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

ow many times have you heard the question, What will be your legacy? Or heard it said that someone left a great legacy? In its basic meaning, a legacy is a gift of money that’s granted by the terms of a will—often a substantial gift that needs to be properly managed. But the word is used much more broadly, as well. Legacy is more about sharing what you have learned or experienced, not just what you have earned or have purchased. Nick Macco and Adam Boeselager have made sharing your legacy easy and amazing. The two began converting old movies and slides into digital files for storage and replay on today’s electronic devices while attending Lee University. They founded Southtree, a direct-to-consumer e-commerce company, in

the garage of a home shared in Chattanooga. The company laid the foundation for what is now the world’s largest digitizer of home movies and photos. Legacybox and their parent company, Southtree, have digitized 3-million videos, and serve customers across the United States. The company has nearly 200 employees, two Tennessee-based offices, and a 52,000-square-foot production facility. It’s very easy! Just visit legacybox.com to order your LEGACYBOX kit. Upon receipt, pack it with your media memories. They include safety barcodes for every item, and a pre-paid UPS® shipping label. Drop your filled Legacybox off at a UPS location and await the magical transformation. They will digitize every item by hand, with personalized updates provided at each step.

LegacyBox.com 800-797-8210 36

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

You will receive all your original media back, along with perfectly preserved copies on thumb drive, the cloud or DVD. There’s never been a better time to dust off those priceless photos and clean out your closet full of camcorder tapes and aging film reels. Digitize your old family memories and share them today; it’s a priceless gift to yourself and loved ones. Legacybox ensures your family history is preserved forever.

CONCERT FOR A CAUSE “13 th Annual Benefit Veterinary Piano Concert”

Saturday, January 18 at 7pm

SW Elementary School, 301 Broad Street, Sweetwater Adults $15 • Students $10 • Pre-School Free Tickets on sale at the door

Piano, Banjo, Songs, Tales A fun family-friendly event that supports the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Sweetwater Valley Citizens for the Arts and local Boy Scout troops. If you have any questions or would like more information about the event, Dr. McCampbell can be reached at mccampbellhm@charter.net or (423) 836-6016.

Dr. Hugh McCampbell

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

By Sydnee Brashears

ike a sudden storm on the summer sky, tragedy can strike without warning. For David Wood, the structure of his adolescent faith could not stand up to the storm, and the boy sought relief in the abyss of substance abuse. It’s been a long road, and he’s needed a lot of help from both his family and God to climb out of the pit, but the rain has ceased, and his story has not only inspired those in the United States but across the world.

Beauty from Ashes:

DAVID WOOD’S TESTIMONY

It began with a trio of deaths that occurred within David’s teenage years. First, his girlfriend was killed in a car accident. After that, his friend’s younger sister lost her fight with leukemia. Finally, his friend fell into a coma and did not recover. These three deaths devastated young David, and instead of turning to those who could help him cope with his grief, he masked his pain and turned to a quick fix: alchohol. It was a slow fade from alcohol to drugs. Pain and fear overwhelmed David, and he lost his way with the Lord, questioning unanswered prayers and the unjustified deaths of those close to him. The cracked foundation of prayer that had begun in his youth had shattered, and all he wanted was to numb the grief. He found a community with his friends, but there was no hope there. As he dug himself deeper, he lost control just to feel normal. “For those of you who work out,” David states, “you hit a plateau, and you’ve gotta add more weight on. Photoshoot in Naxos Greece to launch new projects.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

What you’re used to doesn’t work.” He was a charmer. Good at lying to others, great at lying to himself. He was an outstanding marine but, according to David, “a horrible person.” He put on a mask to hide the brokenness of his life, and he lied the most common lie on earth: that he was okay. He came out of the marines married to a woman whom he’d gotten pregnant with a son he’d never met. “I felt the light go out of my eyes,” he said. It wasn’t until he went in for a routine blood test that he was forced to confront the thing that he’d created of his life. He was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. “It’s not just a little positive,” his doctor told him. “You’re in serious trouble. You’re dying.” And David was terrified. The treatments would be painful - lesions, cysts, a loss of muscle mass and his hair. Everything that made up who that mask was would be taken, forcing him to face the monster of his own making. This he did...but with his family’s help. It was his older sister, Rachel, who threw the rope to help him climb out of the pit. She busted into his life on Father’s Day of 2005.

“Why haven’t you killed yourself?” the book asked him. “Are you worthy to bear your own cross?” This was the question that brought him to his knees. He realized he didn’t have to. He was not alone, and his cross was already borne for him. In that moment, he begged God to take him back, for what he’d done was his fault. David didn’t experience just an inkling of hope - it was so much more. “I felt what I’d been searching for this the whole time... I was filled with the Holy Spirit.” It wasn’t smooth sailing from then on, however. He described his journey as climbing uphill, on sand. He had to become a Christian again every day, and he had several slips as he struggled closer to God and His grace. He continued to live in his sister’s basement as the treatment continued. “I’m not gonna say that it wasn’t painful,” he says in his testimony, “but is was so much better than a decade before: running and being in pain and shame.”

“I love you,” he remembers her saying, “and I’m not going to watch you die.” She went on further to say that she was going to teach him how to be a father, how to be a man of God. She took her little brother into her home, in a nice room in the basement, and it was the first love he’d allowed in for a long, long time.

He began rebuilding his foundation of faith about 4 months into the treatment, when three storm clouds brewed on the horizon: custody of his son, pending felony charges and a blood test. After three days of fervent prayer, God answered him. The felony charges were dropped, he won custody of his son and his doctor told him that there was no more Hepatitis C in his liver.

During the year-long treatment, he read books to pass the time. He was still scared and lost. Man’s Search for Meaning, he recalls, was the one that convinced him to get ahold of himself. The book was penned by a Jewish man named Viktor Frankl who’d survived the Holocaust and his creation of logotherapy.

After his ordeal, he decided to graduate from UT. He originally wanted to use his experience to reach out to troubled youth, but after meeting with a mentor named Tom Henry and another answered prayer, he decided instead to minister in China. Tom took

him on a mission trip to several cities in China, including Beijing and Shanghai. With his Marine Corps training, he was a great help in his six years of working with the underground church. During his work, he was led into ministry with gang members, triads and the addicted. This only opened more doors. He was able to meet with the Hong Kong elite and chose Hong Kong to live with his new wife and open his own business. In his testimony, David asks his father, John Wood, why he didn’t give up on him. The answer was simple: “Because I have been loved well, by my earthly father and my heavenly father.” He went on to say that David was no worse than he, just braver and more successful Vaiva Paulauskaite Wood, at sinning. “I heard members Model and Mother of the family...they said, ‘You know what? Just give up on him’... And my dad would say, ‘Don’t you ever give up on that young man, he’s my son, and I love him.” And John felt the same. Oftentimes society pressures us to hide the storms we’ve been going through, to pretend we are not drenched in self-hate and grief and brokenness. John has taken his and David’s testimony as an inspiration to his own church. He wants his church to be a place where the congregation can take off the masks and find hope in the salvation of Jesus Christ. Because if church is not a place you can take off the mask, then where will people find hope and fellowship? John Wood, retired Cedar Springs Presbyterian Pastor, with son David.

FAMILY

David is known for his film work in movies like “Ghost in the Shell,” “Vixen” and “The Man from Macau.” He also played a Marine in the last two Donnie Yen films, “Big Brother” and “Ipman 4,” in addition to his television work with Spartan Race’s global “Agoge” Endurance Evolutions. He has three new projects, including one for Netflix.

David’s son, Jaden, was born in December 2001. At the time, he was fighting in Afghanistan as a Marine Sergeant, along with the first boots on the ground after 9/11. He didn’t meet his son until he was six months old. Through custody battles and many obstacles, he gained full custody of Jaden. He raised him as a single father until he met his wife in Hong Kong; she has since helped raise him from the time he was 11 years old. Jaden turns 18 this December; he’s already enlisted in the US Marines and will go Recon. He starts Bootcamp this March. Living and learning together in Hong Kong has been such a blessing. Having him so young and unplanned gave him an almost brother-like relationship, and now they truly are best friends. David’s two twin daughters, Abigail and Isabella, were born in Hong Kong In 2015. They were born four months premature, each weighing around 400 grams at birth. They spent their first four months in incubators, receiving multiple surgeries, fighting for their lives. It was the darkest time in his soul and marriage; his marriage felt like two drowning people trying to save each other. There were no certainties. Every day was another miracle and another day of patience. In April 2016, his daughters came home. They’re now healthy young ladies. They taught him the gift and virtues of patience and positivity in the darkest days. David’s oldest daughter, Michelle, is nineteen years old. He met and discovered her last year through Instagram. Her mother found David through his VOG (@ virtus.outdoors) İnstagram. She was born in Panama in March 2000, following his first deployment to LATAM in 1999. Back then, they had no social media, smartphones, etc., so her mother and David lost touch right after his deployment, neither of them knowing a child was conceived. After seeing her picture last October, David immediately knew she was his. She looks exactly like his mother and older sister. Michelle taught him that there is always time to love, grow and build relationships.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

WHAT IS VIRTUS?

“Virtus is Latin for warrior virtues, virtues of honor, courage, commitment. As a veteran, Virtus to me, is more than a clothing or athletic brand, it is a brand for warriors. I’ve been in the textile game long enough to have seen how clothing is really produced. It’s often a designer based in the States outsourcing to middlemen in Asia without ever getting on the ground and testing anything. They normally never see the factory or even conducting quality control inspections.

To us, the integrity of Virtus is our integrity as veterans, and as warriors. When we put our stamp on it, this brand becomes our honor.” “I have been experimenting with tactical gear since 1999, ever since I joined the Marines. In the military, there’s just a need for good gear. You get mass-produced military gear, but it’s really only the specialized units that get to use Oakley Tactical, FirstSpear, Patagonia, brands like this.

Being an extreme athlete and an outdoorsman, there was a longing to have gear that was made and designed like Patagonia, but was available to those of us in the military. At the end of the day, all we military guys, are extreme athletes. We do everything extreme athletes do, and we do it getting shot at, and often without the support of the great gear that other outdoorsmen have.”

We are launching a new clothing line in mid-November as well as leading global endurance events in Asia, Europe, LATAM, and the USA. You can follow these on our social media. www.virtusapparel.myshopify.com

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

DIGITAL CAMOUFLAGE One of the many products created by David’s company, Virtus Outdoor Group, is digital camouflage. These products are designed to completely fool AI and drones to protect warriors in all conditions. Their products even feature winter concealment for snowy terrain.

EXTREME OUTDOORS Since its launch in 2016, VOG has become an innovator and leader in the realm of extreme outdoors gear. Though initially geared towards military, their products are popular with extreme sportsmen and athletes alike.

WHAT’S NEXT? Giving back is an important part of VOG, and as such, the company is involved in multiple outreach efforts. Nomi Network is a nonprofit agency helping fight human trafficking in India and Cambodia. Another outreach effort is FORCE BLUE; this organization’s mission is to unite the community of Special Ops veterans with the world of marine science and conservation.

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

Celebrating

Christmas Past and Present” The Christmas Season is a special time for family and friends. Our unique shops and restaurants will offer a slower pace shopping atmosphere filled with nostalgic Christmas memories. Take a short drive to Loudon and enjoy the holiday sights and sounds of a small town during Christmas.

Past Tymes Antiques

Annabell’s Emporium and Café

Simply Distressed

The General Store

Loudon West End Florist

Greer’s Home Furnishings

Personal Space Creations

Historically Speaking

Antiques Primitives Gifts 865-368-2570

Antiques Primitives Vintage 865-776-3524

Tommy’s Grill on Grove 865-657-6544

Historic Loudon Theatre & Event Center 865-458-9020

Cook n Craft Academy

Café, Jewelry, Furniture, Gifts 865-657-9845 865-408-8500

Essential oils, Aromatherapy Jewelry 865-454-4321

Little Mama’s Boutique Children’s Boutique & Custom Embroidery 865-657-3988

For kids of all ages 865-394-8796

The Grove Wine and Spirits

The Shoppes on the Square

The Massage Studio

865-244-0207

865-408-1311 865-722-5769

Designs Décor Gifts 865-657-6645 865-458-2047

Antiques & Collectibles 865-816-2819

Changing Faces Anti-Aging Spa 865-458-4697

Serendipity Boutique Women’s Fashions 865-657-9991

Nurtured By Nature Wellness Studio 865-210-6869

25 miles south of West Knoxville | Exits 76 or 72 off I-75 Follow signs to Historic Downtown Loudon

American Holly Cedar Waxwing by Gayle Fisher

ow is the time to recognize our native holly, Aquifoliaceae. The female sets berries in the fall, and birds will enjoy this feast through the coming winter months. The height of American holly, or Christmas holly, ranges from 25 ft. to as tall as 60 ft. The stout, stiff branches of this pyramidal evergreen bear dark green, non-glossy, spine-tipped leaves. Be careful: these hollies can scratch. New growth finally pushes off the old leaves in spring. Bright red berries occur on the female plant only. A shorter, multi-trunked form may grow in lower-light situations. The bark is a light gray color. The evergreen fruiting branches from wild and planted trees are popular for Christmas decorations. Many improved varieties are grown for ornament, shade and hedges. You must have both a male and female plant to have berries, or at least have the opposite sex growing wild somewhere nearby. The male must be the same holly species as the female and bloom at the same time. This is a very slow-growing tree. The whitish, fine-textured wood is especially suited for inlays in cabinetwork, handles, carvings and rulers, and can be dyed various shades...even black! It has been used for piano keys. Many kinds of songbirds, gamebirds and mammals eat the bitter berries of this and other hollies, but the fruits are poisonous to humans. The American hollyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth habit is densely pyramidal with branches to the ground when young. With age, the plant is more open and irregular. I have one that is over 45 years old, and it is around 25 feet tall. It was already on the farm when we moved here. I cannot believe how slow it has grown, and it is in full sun. No wonder the wood is so dense!

McMINN LIFE HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020

The female flowers are a dull white, and the berries are a dull red. Fruit matures in October and persists into winter. Even though this plant is not as showy as our new holly cultivars, it is a native plant and has evolved with the wildlife in the area. Birds recognize the berries immediately. Cedar Waxwings are a favorite of many birders and backyard naturalists. With their fuzzy-looking crests and sharp color accents, they’re such dapper-looking birds. I had a photographer tell me that waxwings are the prettiest of all birds. I totally agree. A large flock of them picking through berries is always a joy to watch. But what’s in a name? Why is it called a waxwing? That’s pretty simple: Cedar Waxwings really have wax wings. The bright red, visible on the wing feathers, is actually a waxy red secretion. Interestingly, the red appendages of Cedar Waxwings increase in number and size with a bird’s age: individuals with zero to five waxy tips are presumable immature birds, while those with greater than nine are thought to be older. Individuals within these two categories tend to associate as mates. Pairs of older birds (those with greater than nine waxy tips) nest earlier and raise more chicks

than do immature birds, suggesting that this plumage characteristic is an important signal in mate choice and social organization. Cedar Waxwings specialize in eating fruit, an interesting adaptation among North American birds. While we think of many birds as dining on berries, in reality, berries are only a small portion of their diets. Cedar Waxwings can exist solely on berries for months. There are more than 1,000 cultivars of American holly. If you are planting hollies, you need one male for every three females. Early Americans had a great deal of superstition about hollies. It was believed that planting hollies near buildings would provide protection from witchcraft and lightning. In Tennessee, these hollies also go by the common names of Christmas Holly, Yule Holly, Prickly Holly and Evergreen Holly. I have several native hollies on the farm. The American Holly outside my dining room window had gone unnoticed until last year. I just happened to be walking by when I saw movement out of the corner of my eye. The tree was alive with birds. At least 35 birds were voraciously eating the berries. Within 10 minutes, all the berries were gone, and so were the waxwings; it was magical.

HOLIDAY/ WINTER 2020 McMINN LIFE

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Reed - Age 34 TRANSITION STORY: Reed and his dad, Frank, were always close. When Frank passed away, Reed was left quite an inheritance, a wonderful gift he didn’t expect and one he had no idea how to handle. He needs help making sure it grows and lasts long enough to see his two kids through college, per Frank’s wishes.

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What Is Your Why? by Chris Kittrell

What’s important to you about money? Stop reading this article, put your coffee down, turn off the TV and for just a minute, ask yourself this question. What is truly important to you about money? There are no wrong answers. It’s the money you have now and your ability to earn money in the future that we’re talking about. It doesn’t matter whether you have a lot or very little. It doesn’t matter if you are a saver or a spender. It doesn’t matter what other people might think. This is your opportunity to define what matters most to you as it relates to money. In my profession, I have the privilege to ask this question daily, and it never ceases to amaze me how many people struggle to articulate their answers. It’s not that they don’t know; it’s more a reluctance to say it out loud. I’ve grown to expect the hesitation and awkward silence when asking this question. People don’t really want to

talk about it. The question forces thought. It makes us examine our values, our motivations and our dreams. Most would prefer to talk about the current political crisis, the latest geopolitical catastrophe or what the stock market is going to do in the future. All of these are interesting topics of discussion but they don’t get you any closer to ultimately defining your “WHY” that rolls you out of bed in the morning and off to your profession of choice. I’ve found that it’s much easier to concentrate on the “HOW” instead of the “WHY”. Most of us would much rather think and talk about “HOW” we’re going make more money, “HOW” we’re going to spend our money or “HOW” we’re going to invest our money. We spend very little time examining “WHY” we are going to bust our tails to make more money, “WHY” we’re going to

spend our money on what’s being marketed to us at any given moment or “WHY” we are choosing to invest our money to begin with. There is great satisfaction available if you can get crystal clear about your “WHY” before deciding “HOW”. One of the most rewarding things I get to experience in my work life is helping someone get above all the noise of the “HOW” to the point of truly concentrating on their “WHY”. It’s where peace of mind around money begins. It allows you to say no when confronted with the next great deal that can’t miss or that shiny new toy that you don’t really need. It allows you the freedom to say yes to the things that matter most like memorable experiences with the people you love, giving more to the charities you care about, or helping a grandchild graduate college debt- free. The possibilities are endless. So, before the never-ending details of “HOW” fill your mind again take a moment and answer the question: What’s important to you about money? Chris Kittrell is co-founder and principal of Rather & Kittrell. He is available at ckittrell@rkcapital.com

Securities offered through Securities Service Network, LLC. Member FINRA /SIPC . Rather & Kittrell, Inc. is a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC.

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