Summer 2013, Tennessee Connections
Welcome to the digital edition of Tennessee Connections is an official publication of the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association and is available to the customers of participating TMEPA systems.
Content
summer 2013
tnconnections
An Official Publication of Your Locally Owned Municipal Electric System
tnconnections.com
Soak up summer memories on the Hiwassee River
Float On
Farmers Market to Table
Summer recipes highlight seasonal produce fresh from the farm
tn almanac
Travel, tips and tidbits at a glance
Fireflies in Sync
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to 14 species of fireflies, and one of them – called Photinus carolinus – attracts quite a bit of attention. This species is the only one in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns, creating an impressive show for lucky viewers. The fireflies can be seen at Elkmont Campground approximately June 6-13 this year. Park biologists predict when they appear based on past years. The park organizes nightly viewings during the peak season. No cars are allowed in the campground after 5 p.m., but non-camping visitors can ride a $1 shuttle from the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking lot. For dates and ticket information, call (865) 436-1200.
Up in the Air
Professional pilots show off their sky-high skills at the annual Wings Over Halls Air Show. Spectators can see a team aerodynamics show and historic warbirds. The event features more than 30 World War II-era planes, including the B-17 Yankee Lady and other models. “It’s a return to the time when country meant everything,” says Pat Higdon, director of the Veterans’ Museum, which organizes the event. The air show soars into West Tennessee Aug. 17-18 at Dyersburg Army Air Base. Gates open daily at 10 a.m. with shows beginning at 1:30 p.m. Spectators are invited to visit the aircraft on the ramp before and after the show. Advance tickets cost $8 and are available after July 1 at area banks and through mail. Admission at the gate is $15. To request tickets through mail, call (731) 836-7400 or order them from Wings Over Halls, 100 Veterans’ Drive, Halls, TN 38040. For more details on the air show, visit dyaab.us.
Home of the Hams
When lunchtime rolls around in the West Tennessee community of Eads, hungry workers and townsfolk pile into Canale’s Grocery for its out-of-this-world ham sandwiches. The combination grocery store, butcher shop and gas station opened in 1970 in a simple cement-block building, and the family-owned business quickly became famous for its smoked hams. The Canale family arrives at 3 a.m. most days to smoke the hams for five to seven hours. Customers can stop by in the morning beginning at 6 a.m. for a hot breakfast biscuit to-go, or at lunch for a ham sandwich (a bargain at $2.50) piled high with the works. The family also sells whole and half hams year-round. Canale’s Grocery is located at 10170 Raleigh-LaGrange Road East in Eads and is open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon. For more information, call (901) 853-9490.
photo courtesy of steve vickery
contents
tnconnections
Summer 2013 Edition Content Director Jessy Yancey Contributing Writers Rebecca Denton, Roben Mounger, Cassandra M. Vanhooser Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Rachel Bertone Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Michael Conti, Wendy Jo O’Barr, Frank Ordonez Creative Services Director Christina Carden Graphic Designer Kara Leiby Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Sr. V.P./Sales Todd Potter Sr. V.P./Operations Casey Hester Sr. V.P./Agribusiness Publishing Kim Holmberg V.P./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens Controller Chris Dudley Integrated Media Manager Robin Robertson Distribution Director Gary Smith Receptionist Linda Bishop Tennessee Connections is published quarterly by Journal Communications Inc. for participating members of the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association. TMEPA represents 61 municipal power distributors in Tennessee, which serve more than 2 million customers. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067. Phone: 615-771-0080. Email: [email protected]. For information about TMEPA, contact: Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association Paddock 1, Suite C-13, 229 Ward Circle Brentwood, TN 37027 Phone 615-373-5738, Fax 615-373-1901 tmepa.org Executive Director Mike Vinson
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Features
4 Float On
Webb Brothers Float Service helps families make memories on the Hiwassee River Williamson County family adds value to dairy farm by offering tours and opening country store Recipes use fresh produce to highlight summer flavors
6 Meet the Milk Makers
©Copyright 2013 Journal Communications Inc. and Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. ON THE COVER: Eggplants at a farmers market. Photo by Michael Conti
10 Farmers Market to Table
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summer 2013
Departments
2 Municipal Power Perspective 3 Tennessee in Focus 12 Taste of Tennessee 14 Summer Activities in Tennessee 17 Connect to Tennessee Products
tnconnections
An Official Publication of Your Locally Owned Municipal Electric System
Digital Magazine
Flip through the pages of the magazine without leaving your laptop. Print and email articles and instantly link to advertisers.
tnconnections.com
Soak up summer memories on the Hiwassee River
FloaT on
Farmers Market to Table
Summer recipes highlight seasonal produce fresh from the farm
Summer 2013
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municipal power perspective
Change is in the Air
Learn about the latest legislation from the most recent session
Katie Hitt
Director of Government Relations Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association
Membership
Alcoa Electric Department Athens Utilities Board Benton County Electric System Bolivar Energy Authority Bristol Tennessee Essential Services Brownsville Utility Department Carroll County Electrical Department Electric Power Board of Chattanooga CDE Lightband – Clarksville Cleveland Utilities Clinton Utilities Board Columbia Power & Water System Cookeville Department of Electricity Covington Electric System Dayton Electric Department Dickson Electric System Dyersburg Electric System Elizabethton Electric Department Erwin Utilities Etowah Utilities Department Gallatin Department of Electricity Greeneville Light & Power System Harriman Utility Board Humboldt Utilities Jackson Energy Authority Jellico Electric & Water Systems Johnson City Power Board Knoxville Utilities Board LaFollette Utilities Lawrenceburg Utility Systems Lenoir City Utilities Board Lewisburg Electric System Lexington Electric System Loudon Utilities City of Maryville Electric Department McMinnville Electric System Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division Milan Department of Public Utilities Morristown Utility Commission Mount Pleasant Power System Murfreesboro Electric Department Nashville Electric Service Newbern Electric Department Newport Utilities City of Oak Ridge Electric Department Paris Board of Public Utilities Pulaski Electric System Ripley Power and Light Company Rockwood Electric Utility Sevier County Electric System Shelbyville Power System Smithville Electric System Sparta Electric System Springfield Electric Department Sweetwater Utilities Board Trenton Light & Water Department Tullahoma Utilities Board Union City Electric System Weakley County Municipal Electric System Winchester Utilities
Spring arrived in March, and along with the new season, other changes are worth noting. The legislature took on many important issues this session, including several that impact your local municipal electric utility. Pole attachments fees and operational issues are a perennial issue at the legislature. Usually we take a defensive role, but this year, we turned the tables on the cable companies (the attaching parties) and filed our own legislation. Our bill, House Bill 1111 by Rep. Jimmy Matlock, R-Lenoir City, and Senate Bill 1222 by Speaker Pro Tempore Bo Watson, R-Chattanooga, sought to put in place an operational working group, best practices and a dispute resolution process for entities who attach their cables to our power poles. We received extensive feedback from legislators across the state. While the bill did not become law this session, pole attachments are an issue the legislature intends to address this summer via a study committee. As pole owners, we believe that anyone attaching to our poles should share the cost. House Bill 51 by Rep. David Alexander, R-Winchester, and Senate Bill 78 by Senator Jim Tracy, R-Shelbyville, passed through the legislative process and became Public
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Chapter 2 this session (see details at http://state.tn.us/sos/acts/108pub/ pc0002.pdf).This legislation was filed early and passed early. The initiative was brought by the Office of the Comptroller of the Treasury. The previous law limited participation in the rural economic development loan and grant program to municipalities in six counties. Under the new law, all municipally owned electric systems who wish to participate may do so. The purpose of the program is to promote economic and industrial development. Municipal electric utilities may participate as both a borrower and a lender in the rural economic development loan and grant program established and administered by the federal rural development administration. As you know, electricity is a vital part of economic development. Our local utilities work with economic development officials on a routine basis. This program provides yet another avenue for municipal electric systems to help the communities they serve. This is an optional program and does not require any electric system to participate. It’s inevitable that changes will continue. We’ll also continue do what we can to protect your local municipal electric system and their ratepayers.
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tn in focus
Staff Photo
Iris Garden at the Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville
Summer 2013
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feature
Float
Soak up memories on the Hiwassee River with Webb Brothers Float Service
On
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story by Cassandra M. Vanhooser
o it,” she says, a glimmer of devilment dancing in her eyes. “I dare you.” Never one to ignore a challenge, especially from a sassy teenager, I saunter to the edge of the Hiwassee River and plunge my sandaled feet ankle-deep in the rushing water. Before I can edit my response, I jump back and squeal: “Brrrrr! That’s frigid!” My friends laugh as I hop about trying to warm my blue toes. So does our driver, Jamie, as he unloads the rafts we rented at Webb Brothers Float Service and Country Store. “I can’t tell you why,” he says, “but the water here seems to be colder somehow. It’s clearer, too. Y’all have a good trip.” With that, he waves goodbye. We stand forlornly by our rafts, trying to figure out how to launch our watercraft without getting wet.
The Cool Hiwassee
Staff Photo
Even on the hottest days of the summer, the Hiwassee’s chilly temperature comes as a bit of a shock. The water makes an 8.3-mile trek through a pipeline at the base of Appalachia Dam in North Carolina to a powerhouse just above Reliance, in the southeast corner of Tennessee. From here, the Tennessee Valley Authority releases the water back into the river after using it to generate hydroelectric power. Most days, TVA irrigates this natural playground from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., delighting legions of rafters, kayakers and fishermen. In drought years, the flow can be less, but with normal rainfall, recreational floaters can count on having water. The boat launch at the base of the powerhouse enjoys a steady stream of traffic from Memorial Day to Labor Day. “My friends over on the Ocoee say, ‘Why do you fool with that second-class river over there?’ ” says Harold Webb, whose family started
the river’s first rafting service. “But they don’t know what they’re talking about. They’ve got the whitewater, but we’ve got a great outdoor experience here. It’s an easy paddling experience, great for families, church groups and beginning kayakers.” Few people know this river valley better than Harold. He grew up in the back rooms of the old country store his father and uncle founded during the Depression. It was used for generations as a post office, supply center and general gathering spot for the community. While his parents tended the store, Harold got to know the river. After his freshman year at the University of Tennessee, Harold returned home to find that he no longer had a boat to use for floating and fishing the river. His dad was renting it to strangers. His uncle Oliver had even absconded with Harold’s old inner tubes and was renting those out, too. The brothers would load folks up in the farm’s cattle truck, haul them up the winding Forest Service road and drop them off upriver. Harold recalls how the Hiwassee has become more regulated over the years, since becoming a State Scenic River in 1972. “Alcohol was banned in 1975,” he says, “and life jackets became mandatory in 1976.”
What’s in Store
Yet, it’s the Hiwassee River Valley’s natural beauty that continues to attract visitors. The peaks of the Blue Ridge press against the sky. Black-eyed Susans, wild touch-me-nots, and Queen Anne’s lace flower the river’s banks, while trout slide through deep, rock-protected pools. Still, Harold notes that tubing is for the young and athletic (minimum age 10) and requires some skill, as you have to navigate the Class II and III rapids. “With tubing, you are actually sitting in the water and the water is quite cold,” he explains. “Rafting, on the other hand, is suitable for all ages because you are more protected from the water.” The Hiwassee turns out to be the perfect hostess for my day of fun and family. It takes only minutes for our party to adjust to the water’s chill. Later in the day, when the sun chases the clouds away, a dip in the river becomes a welcome relief. We swim, play and embrace the splashing rapids as we steadily tumble toward our journey’s end. We fondly remember old friends and family and share plans for the future. When at last we cross Devils Shoals, a series of rapids we hear long before we reach them, the bridge marking the end of our trip comes into view. We approach the takeout point with smiles, knowing we’ve already finalized plans for our next trip.
A low, flat building with benches lining the covered porch, the Webb Brothers General Store still sits at the intersection of State Roads 30 and 315. Though the rafting experience has changed some, the store continues to serve as the launching point for many a trip down the Hiwassee. In addition to gasoline, Harold sells cold drinks and snacks, as well as sunscreen and basic supplies. Lots of people sport T-shirts they buy here after their trip.
Know Before You Go
Webb Brothers Float Service and General Store Location: 3708 Highway 30, Reliance, TN 37369 Contact: (877) 932-7238 (toll-free), (423) 338-2373, webbbros.com Tubing, the more challenging option for ages 10 and over, costs $27 for a one-person float and $54 for two people. Rafts, for any age with a responsible adult, cost $22 per person with a $50 minimum. Prices include life jackets (mandatory for kids), paddles and shuttle service. As always, please call ahead before traveling long distances and to learn more about what to expect on these excursions.
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Tennessee Connections
the Meet Milk Makers
Williamson County family adds value to dairy farm by offering tours and opening country store
story by Rebecca Denton photography by Staff Photographer
rom the Hatcher family’s small country store on Arno Road in Williamson County, visitors can see the rolling forest and pastureland that make up the 400-acre Hatcher Family Dairy Farm. Directly across the street is a churned-up swath of earth that will soon become The Grove, an 18-hole golf course with 800 homes, a clubhouse, spa and fitness center. The new development is an all-too-tangible sign of what’s happening to many dairies throughout the Southeast, the Hatchers say. But the family has no plans to sell their fifth-generation farm. Instead, in a final effort to save their dairy business and make it profitable for years to come, they have drastically changed the way they operate. “We knew we had encroaching development, and the costs of fuel and fertilizer are rising,” says Charlie Hatcher, a veterinarian and partner in the dairy business with
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his brother, Jim. “If we wanted to stay here and make a go of it and be profitable, we had to try something different – some way to add value to our product.”
Middle Tennessee area. They also opened their own country store – right on the farm – to sell milk directly to area consumers.
A Brand of Their Own
All in the Family
For decades the family sold its pasture-derived product to a milk cooperative, which combined the Hatchers’ milk with milk from other farms before sending it to be sold in stores. But in 2007, the Hatchers branded their own milk and started selling straight to the public, tapping into a growing niche market of consumers who prefer to buy their food directly from the source. “A lot of people are concerned about where their food comes from and how the animals are treated,” Charlie says. “And they like to know who they’re dealing with.” Hatcher Dairy sells its milk at Whole Foods Market in Nashville and Cool Springs as well as in several local grocery stores in the
The Hatchers – a tight-knit farming family with an unwavering sense of loyalty to their land and heritage – are ideal candidates for this sort of back-to-basics venture. Brothers Charlie and Jim have been partners in the dairy since the early 1990s, and the entire family pitches in to keep things running smoothly. Jim is the farm manager, and he also takes the lead during processing day and makes some milk deliveries. Charlie’s wife, Sharon, manages the country store, and his daughter, Jennifer, is a veterinarian (like her dad) who fills in where needed. Charlie’s son, Charles, is co-manager of the dairy and manages the milk delivery routes. Lucy Hatcher – sister to Charlie and Jim – is the farm tour director and “chief cleaner and organizer.”
The Hatchers put a custom label on their farm-fresh milk. The milk is sold in grocery stores and farmers markets around Middle Tennessee. Summer 2013 tnconnections.com
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Part of the farm has been in the Hatcher family since 1831, and they’ve been milking cows continuously since that time – either by hand or by machine. These days the Hatchers have about 60 adult milk cows, including Holsteins, Jerseys, cross-breeds and two Brown Swiss heifers. The cows graze in pastures year-round, rotating among 11 paddock lots planted with seasonal grasses – a major selling point. “Our cows get clean, fresh pasture on a daily basis, and that is the huge thing that sets our milk apart,” Jim says. “It’s strictly Hatcher milk, and we’re with it every step of the way – from growing the grasses and milking the cows to processing. It’s ensured quality.” Visitors to the dairy’s website, hatcherfamilydairy.com, can see photos and read about the cows. “We wanted to let milk drinkers know a little bit about the cows that are working so hard,” Charlie says. “We wanted to personalize it. The majority are named, and they’re all part of the Hatcher family.” The Hatchers’ signature chocolate milk is named “Brownie’s Best” after a beloved Brown Swiss cow that lived on the farm for many years before she died. The farm also produces whole, two percent and skim milk, along with butter, cream, half-and-half and gelato.
The Milking Process
“It’s been so rewarding because of the people who drink our milk,” Charlie says. “On a daily basis people say, ‘We appreciate what you’re doing, we’re glad it’s local and we’re glad it’s family.’” The Hatchers are counting on loyal customers like Dawn Redlin of College Grove, who comes in every week to buy three half-gallon jugs of whole milk, and new customers like Sally Lewis of Thompson’s Station. “I like the idea of local products and supporting local agriculture,” says Lewis, who stopped in after hearing from coworkers that she should check out the store. In addition to milk, the Hatchers sell other all-natural,
Loyal Customers
locally made products including soaps, candles, salsas, jellies, barbecue sauces and cheeses. The store also offers sandwiches on locally baked bread, Hatcherbranded tote bags and T-shirts – and visitors can check email using the free Wi-Fi. Farm tours are available on Thursdays by reservation for $6 per person. “Some days I’m overwhelmed,” Sharon says of business at the store, “and it’s mostly been word of mouth.” They’re hoping the momentum continues. “We all work very hard, and there’s still not a lot of profit involved,” Jim says. “But selling the land is not an option. We feel it’s not really ours to sell. We’re just going to try to pass it on to the next generation.”
Got Dairy?
Since the 1990s, we’ve seen our favorite celebrities wearing milk mustaches to promote the health benefits of milk. But June Dairy Month has been keeping the importance of dairy in the forefront of people’s minds for much longer – since 1937. Seventy-six years ago, the promotion launched as “National Milk Month” supported by the National Dairy Council and was dubbed “June Dairy Month” in 1939. It was originally designed to increase dairy demand during the summer months of peak production, but June Dairy Month transformed into promoting the overall use of dairy foods in the mid-1950s.
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In Tennessee, communities celebrate with parades and festivals, such as Greene County Partnership’s June Dairy Days Celebration and National MooFest in Athens. The Tennessee 4-H Club sponsors a poster contest for members and honors the winners at a luncheon in Nashville. Visit southeastdairy.org to learn about ways to celebrate June Dairy Month. For more information about the Hatchers, call (615) 368-3405 or go to hatcherfamilydairy.com.
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Farmers Market toTable
Recipes use fresh produce to highlight summer flavors
photography by Jeffrey S. Otto
feature
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njoy the freshness of your local farmers’ fare with these surprisingly simple treats. Shopping directly from your farmer is becoming easier than ever. Farmers markets, roadside stands and CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) present ways to partake in the trend, and crowds are flocking to take advantage of the market scene’s bounty. In honor of summer’s seasonal produce, we’ve compiled a list of recipes perfect for the healthconscious, the serious foodie or the casual consumer. It’s an effortless and tasty way to support your local farmers. Of course, these recipes can be enjoyed any
time of the year after a trip to your grocery store. Start off with a cold vegetable salad that marinates Tennessee tomatoes and crisp cucumbers in a sweet mustard vinaigrette. Follow that with a Southern favorite – stuffed peppers – but instead of traditional beef and rice, go Mediterranean by filling it with lamb and couscous. To take advantage of the season’s freshest flavors, try this easy, delicious summer succotash. Simply throw together your market favorites such as green beans, zucchini, corn and tomatoes, and sauté with fresh herbs for a hearty side or main dish.
Tomato-Cucumber Salad
¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup white wine vinegar 4 teaspoons yellow mustard 2 teaspoons sugar 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 pound farm-fresh tomatoes 1 English cucumber Mix oils, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper together. Slice tomatoes into quarters. Halve cucumber and slice into half moons. Pour dressing over tomatoes and cucumber slices. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Let stand at room temperature about 20 minutes before serving.
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Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Couscous
1 cup pearl couscous ¼ cup chicken stock 2 tablespoons olive oil
Stuffing
½ pound ground lamb ½ cup small onion, diced ½ teaspoon garlic, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped ½ teaspoon ground fennel ½ teaspoon ground coriander ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 4 sweet bell peppers, tops cut off with seeds removed
Couscous
Boil chicken stock, add couscous, reduce heat to a simmer and cook on very low for 8 minutes. Take off heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Pour out of pot, fluff and toss with olive oil. Set aside.
Stuffing
Sauté onion in two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until translucent. Add garlic and cook, stirring for 30 seconds. Add lamb, ground fennel, coriander, salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until thoroughly brown. Combine lamb mixture, couscous and parsley. Salt to taste. Stuff inside sweet bell peppers and bake at 400 degrees for approximately 20 minutes.
Summer Succotash
1 ½ cups onion, chopped butter (for sautéing) 1 cup fresh zucchini, coarsely chopped 3 cups fresh corn kernels 1 cup fresh green beans, blanched and cut in half-inch pieces 1 cup tomatoes, coarsely chopped 2 teaspoons kosher salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 3 tablespoons fresh basil, coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped In a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat, sauté onion in butter until soft, about 2 minutes. Add chopped zucchini, and sauté 3 minutes. Stir in corn, tomatoes and blanched green beans. Add salt, pepper, basil and cilantro. Heat until mixture is hot.
More Online
Find other seasonally inspired recipes online at farmflavor.com.
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taste of tn
An Aubergine
Eggplant may be an acquired taste, but don’t be afraid
story by Roben Mounger
Picnic
About the Author
Roben Mounger cooks today as she has for the past 20 years, using seasonal elements produced by her local CSA and farmers market. Inspired by the musings of Barbara Kingsolver in Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, she spent a year in a farm internship and now writes a column for The Columbia Daily Herald. She connects ideas about healing family and community with homemade food in her blog of revelations and recipes at mscookstable.com.
he first time that my husband introduced us, Aunt Mary embraced me with a bony, viselike grip. Mary had a curiously forced enthusiasm for all things familial, having been raised within a challenging set of alliances. Given a minister father, a somber mother, a dominating sister and a triumphant younger brother, she fought for her place in the world. On occasion, our families would meet on the Natchez Trace to picnic with Mary and her taciturn husband, Gail. She would invite us to rendezvous with internationally adopted kin, a bunch whom she and Gail had taken in. The last time I saw Mary, we scooped her up from her retirement home in Memphis en route to Jackson, Miss., to attend her brother’s funeral. She noted the haste in which we traveled: “This is Paul Revere’s wild ride, but I am not afraid.” Despite her fearlessness at that time, I later found that Mary did harbor a trepidation for something surprising – the vegetable. Upon her passing, I came across a 10-cent spiral notebook in which she meticulously registered her version of good eats. Sadly for my family, it contained a plethora of variations on sugar and gelatin, no doubt, in anticipation for her favored outing, the picnic. Oddly, her penchant for other cultures did not extend into the food world, although I am sure if properly introduced, she would have appreciated the eggplant, also known
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by its French name, the aubergine. Many folks who are new to the eggplant perceive a bitterness that often accompanies an undercooked or under-salted version of the fruit – and they never venture another taste test. The eggplant, like the tomato, is a nightshade plant that originated in the East, possibly during the fifth century. Though it contains nicotine (as a cousin to tobacco), its health benefits reign over any disadvantages, as the eggplant provides folic acid, magnesium and a propensity for lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Tossing it on the grill proved a foolproof positive introduction to our growing children. To this day, we find grilled eggplant useful for salads and sandwiches during the subsequent week. I discovered this barbecue dish, a favored eggplant preparation, in a 1969 cookbook, It’s a Picnic by Nancy Fair McIntyre. Take a stack of eggplant, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, basil, oregano and pat of butter, folded inside individual foil packets, and place on the grill for about 15 minutes. Another preferred portable version, Moroccan Eggplant Salad is surprisingly sanctioned by my husband, a former eggplant-phobic. Delicious on its own, you can also serve it on toasted pita with additional herb-infused oil, or use it to intensify a bowl of pasta. Aunt Mary might consider it a wild ride, but I know that amidst the big reunion picnic in the sky, she would give me an appreciative hug.
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Staff photo
Moroccan Eggplant Salad
1 scant teaspoon cumin seeds 1 pound firm eggplant 1 small red onion, chopped 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped and divided ½ teaspoon salt Toast cumin seed in a dry 10-inch heavy cast iron skillet, stirring occasionally until fragrant and dark brown. Cool, and then grind into a powder with an electric coffee or spice grinder. In a large skillet over medium heat, pan roast the whole eggplant, turning frequently with tongs until blackened and tender all over, at least 30 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board. Cut off and discard stem. Scrape flesh from skin, and coarsely chop. In a large bowl, combine onion, vinegar, sugar, 1 tablespoon of oil, 1 tablespoon of parsley, ½ teaspoon of toasted cumin and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add eggplant, and toss well. Serve in a shallow bowl, drizzle with remaining oil and sprinkle with remaining parsley and toasted cumin.
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events
Summer in Tennessee
Festivals, celebrations, activities and more
more than 800 horses including hunter/ jumpers, American Saddlebreds, Roaster and Hackney ponies and Tennessee Walking Horses. CONTACT: (901) 754-0009, gchs.org
June 6-9, Nashville
“Country Music’s Biggest Party” brings country fans from all over the world to see some of the genre’s biggest artists for four days and nights of live music. CONTACT: (800) 262-3378, cmafest.com
CMA Music Festival
June 7-9, Johnson City
Blue Plum Art & Music Festival
This outdoor music and arts festival in downtown Johnson City features children’s entertainment, live music and more. CONTACT: blueplum.org
June 7-15, Chattanooga
Riverbend Festival
Make your way to this internationally award-winning 9-day music festival! Enjoy multiple stages of diverse music on the waterfront plus fireworks, a 5K and 10K run and a children’s village. CONTACT: (423) 756-2211, riverbendfestival.com
June 14-15, Nashville
Jefferson Street Jazz & Blues Festival Bring the whole family to this lively
Jeffrey S. OTTO
music festival. Enjoy great food and see local jazz and blues musicians perform. CONTACT: (615) 726-5867, jumptojefferson.com
June 15, Bell Buckle
Miranda Lambert perfroms at the annual CMA Music Festival in downtown Nashville.
Bell Buckle’s RC & Moon Pie Festival Celebrate a true Southern
tradition with music, cloggers, games, crafts and the cutting of the world’s largest Moon Pie. CONTACT: (931) 389-9663, bellbucklechamber.com
This listing includes a selection of events of statewide interest scheduled in June, July and August as provided to Tennessee Home & Farm by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. To include your local events in our listing, please contact them at www.tnvacation.com. Due to space constraints, we are unable to list all of the events provided or accept unsolicited events. However, you can find additional information and events at the department’s website. Events are subject to date change or cancellation. Please call the contact listed before traveling long distances to attend.
June 18, Spring Hill
June
June 1, Coopertown
June 1, Athens
National Moofest Dairy Festival
Celebrate June Dairy Month at the National Moofest Dairy Festival. Participate in ice cream and dairy-themed contests, enjoy music, arts and crafts, food and more. CONTACT: nationalmoofest.com
Coopertown Barrel Festival
Join in the celebration as Coopertown presents its first annual Coopertown Barrel Festival. This outdoor event honors the heritage of the cooper, as well as the founders of the town. Enjoy live music, carnival games, local food, talents and wares from the community. CONTACT: (615) 382-4470, coopertowntn.org 14
This free educational event offers visitors a chance to learn about the production of small fruits like grapes and blueberries, and how they can easily be grown in the backyard. The field day also trains guests on maintaining the more traditional “fruits” of their yards, such as beautiful shrubs and lush lawns. Begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Middle Tennessee Research & Education Center. Contact: (731) 425-4768, middletennessee.tennessee.edu
Fruits of the Backyard
June 21-22, Oak Ridge
Secret City Festival
June 4-8, Memphis
Germantown Charity Horse Show
Don’t miss this exciting all-breed event with
This 11th annual citywide celebration commemorates the 68th anniversary ending of WWII and features the largest multi-battle WWII reenactment in the South, as well as tours of Manhattan Project sites, children’s Tennessee Connections
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festival, arts, crafts and more. CONTACT: (865) 425-3610, secretcityfestival.com
July 4, Knoxville
Festival on the Fourth
June 21-Aug. 10, Gatlinburg
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
The 7th anniversary of this annual celebration features storytellers, musicians and cloggers at different locations along the Parkway. CONTACT: (865) 436-0500, gatlinburg.com
This patriotic celebration features live entertainment, family fun and more beginning at 4:30 p.m. at World’s Fair Park. CONTACT: (865) 215-4248, cityofknoxville.org
tours, family reunions, music, craftsmen and family fun for all ages. It’s also the final weekend of the Sutton Homestead’s Hats Off to Our Past exhibit. CONTACT: (931) 653-4151, granvilletn.com
July 4, Chattanooga
July 11, Jackson
Tobacco Beef & More The MidSouth’s beef and tobacco producers will want to attend this free educational event which features the state’s leading experts on topics such as animal health, forage, burley and dark fired tobacco production. Tobacco Beef & More begins at 7:00 a.m. at the Highland Rim Research & Education Center. CONTACT: (731) 425-4768, [email protected]
June 28-30, Knoxville
This fun event showcases local African-American art and artists, featuring entertainers performing on three stages, live demonstrations and food vendors. CONTACT: knoxville.org
June 27, Springfield
Independence Day Weekend Fireworks Explosive fireworks, food,
games and rides at Lake Winnepesaukah to celebrate our nation. CONTACT: (877) 525-3946, lakewinnie.com
Summer Celebration Lawn & Garden Show Hear presentations from
the region’s leading gardening experts. Walk through beautiful garden displays and get plant problems diagnosed. Find great performing plants at the Master Gardener Plant Sale. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 17 and under. The Celebration begins at 10 a.m. at the West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. CONTACT: (731) 425-4768, west.tennessee.edu
July 4, Knoxville
Independence Day Parade
Floats, animals and antique cars parade down Kingston Pike at 9:30 a.m. on the morning of July 4. CONTACT: knoxville.org/events
July 5-6, Smithville
July 11-27, Elizabethton
Kuumba Festival
Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree & Crafts Festival This fun-filled festival
features various state and national bluegrass championships, jam sessions and juried craft exhibitors. CONTACT: (615) 597-4163, smithvillejamboree.com
“Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals” Tennessee’s official outdoor
drama continues for a three-weekend run – Thursdays through Saturdays – in Fort Watauga Amphitheater. CONTACT: sycamoreshoalstn.org
June 30, Lancaster
Lancaster Parade
Take part in the celebration of “One Nation Under God” as patriots from all over Middle Tennessee come to participate in this year’s 9th annual Independence Day parade beginning at 6 p.m. (line up at 5). Stay for Bluegrass on the Greens, a special concert performance by the 129th Army Band, great barbecue, apple pie, homemade ice cream and a spectacular fireworks show at dark thirty. bring your lawn chairs and be a part of small town U.S.A. celebrating in a big way! CONTACT: (615) 683-6131, lancasterparade.org
July 5-7, Granville
July 12-13, Ripley
Genealogy Festival & Family Reunion In celebration of July being
Genealogy Month, the historic town of Granville will conduct a Genealogy Festival with noted speakers, genealogy booths,
Lauderdale County Tomato Festival
This two-day celebration honors area tomato growers with carnival rides, a petting zoo, games, crafts, live music and tomato tastings.
July
July 3-4, Gatlinburg
Midnight Independence Day Parade The “First July Fourth Parade of
the Nation” kicks off at midnight on July 4. Floats, balloons and marching bands pay tribute to our country. CONTACT: (865) 436-4178, gatlinburg.com
July 4, Nashville
Music City July Fourth Spectacular
This annual event is Nashville’s largest one-day party. Enjoy live music, family activities, food and one of the nation’s best fireworks displays. CONTACT: (800) 657-6910 Summer 2013 tnconnections.com
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CONTACT: (731) 635-9541, lauderdalecountytn.org
July 12-14, Murfreesboro
36th Annual Uncle Dave Macon Days Festival This festival honors the
memory of Uncle Dave Macon, one of the first Grand Ole Opry superstars and features music, arts and crafts, food, storytelling and competitions. CONTACT: (800) 716-7560, uncledavemacondays.com
Square dancing is the official folk dance of Tennessee. Square dancers from around the state will gather for three days of dancing, shopping and more. Spectators welcome at no charge. CONTACT: (615) 542-2866
Fame Museum. CONTACT: (731) 427-6262, rockabillyhall.org
Aug. 10, East Nashville
Tomato Art Fest
Aug. 1-4, Jamestown
127 Corridor Sale
127sale.com
The world’s longest yard sale stretches for 675 miles along U.S. Highway 127. CONTACT: (800) 327-3945,
July 12-20, Kingsport
Kingsport Fun Fest
(865) 828-4222
Live concerts, children’s activities and hot-air balloons fill this family-friendly festival. CONTACT:
Williamson County Fair Celebrating its ninth year, the theme of this year’s fair is “Rock Around the Fair.” Guests can enjoy food, fun, competitive exhibits and more. CONTACT: williamsoncountyfair.org
Aug. 3-4, Cleveland
Aug. 2-10, Franklin
This artsy festival at Five Points in East Nashville celebrates the tomato as a uniter, not a divider. Events include a dog-friendly 5K, tomato fairy costume contest, New Orleans-style parade, bobbing for tomatoes, tomato recipe contest and much more. CONTACT: tomatoartfest.com
Aug. 10-16, Memphis
Elvis Week
July 26-28, Rutledge
This year makrs the 36th anniversary of the celebration of Elvis Presley’s music, movies and life. The event includes a candlelight vigil. CONTACT: (800) 238-2000, elvis.com
Grainger County Tomato Festival
Don’t miss out on Civil War encampment, arts and cultural exposition, tomato wars, entertainment and more at this fun festival. CONTACT: (865) 828-4222, graingercountytomatofestival.com
Cherokee Days of Recognition
Living history, authentic crafts and food are front and center at the 30th annual Cherokee Days of Recognition, held at Red Clay State Historic Park. CONTACT: (423) 478-0339, tn.gov/environment/parks/RedClay
Aug. 17-18, Halls
Wings Over Halls Air Show
August
Aug. 1-3, Gatlinburg
Annual air show held at the Dyersburg Army Air Base. See inside front cover of this issue for details. CONTACT: (731) 836-7400, dyaab.us
Aug. 9-10, Jackson
Aug. 21-31, Shelbyville
Rock-A-Billy Festival
Tennessee State Square and Round Dance Convention
Head to Jackson for the world’s largest gathering of Rock-A-Billy artists and musicians at the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of
75th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration
The world championship show of Tennessee’s native breed of show horse. Division champions will be crowned, and the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse will be named. CONTACT: (931) 684-5951, twhnc.com
Aug. 30-31, Jackson
African Street Festival Join in the celebration of African-American cultural awareness with entertainment, workshops, educational seminars and more. CONTACT: (731) 267-3212, saaca.com
Green Travel Tips
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Carpool whenever possible to reduce your carbon footprint – and you’ll also spend less money on gas.
Staying overnight? Unplug major appliances to save energy and lower your electric bill.
Support Tennessee’s sustainable tourism. Find green lodging, dining and attractions at tnvacation.com/green.
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Tennessee Connections
connect to tn products
Statewide roundup of favorite finds
Sweeten Your Health
Fred Tyler of Dandridge started making raw honey as a hobby with just a few beehives. “I suffered from allergies, and I had heard raw honey might help,” he says. “Pretty soon my friends and neighbors wanted to buy it for health reasons, too.” Tyler became state-certified and now has between 50 and 100 beehives from which he makes about 100 gallons of raw honey every year. Why raw? “When honey is processed, it gets heated, and that kills all the natural enzymes you’d want for good health,” Tyler explains. He sells his all-natural honey at several Dandridge businesses, including Ray’s Printing and Owens Restaurant. He also takes orders by phone and email. Contact Tyler at (865) 322-3363 or [email protected].
Succulent Seasonings
Make your cookout cuisine taste extra savory this summer with a little help from Doug Jeffords Co. in Franklin. The company has been making seasonings and spices by hand for more than 50 years, ranging from seasoning salts and barbecue rubs to ham cures, breadings and batters for cornbread, country biscuits and sweet potato pancakes. In 1961, Doug Jeffords established the company after gaining a following in Middle Tennessee for his delicious sausage seasonings. Today, the company operates out of a 12,000-square-foot facility in Cool Springs near historic downtown Franklin and supplies meat packers and restaurants near and far. To see a complete list of their products or to order, visit dougjeffords.com.
Zuzu’s Joy
After her home was hit by two tornado-force storms within a week in 2011, Susan Newbill of Greenfield decided to focus her life on things that are really important – family and creating joy for others. She left her stressful career in software development and began capitalizing on her love for entertaining by creating handmade mixes for dips, desserts, soups, hot beverages and fruit teas. Her business, Zuzu’s Joy, produces the Tennessee Farm Country Gourmet line of products now sold in more than 30 stores in Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi. Newbill makes, among other things, sweet ginger and tiramisu fruit dips, fruit tea mixes in five flavors and six kinds of homestyle soups. Visit zuzusjoy.com to see more products or place an order.
Summer 2013
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Journal Communications 725 Cool springs Blvd., suite 400 franklin, tn 37067
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE Lebanon Junction, KY 40150 Permit No. 222
PAID
Summer Energy-Saving Tips
Use these tips to beat the heat this summer
• Take a break: Suprisingly, running your dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand actually saves water. • Enjoy the season: Instead of putting your clothes in the dryer, take advantage of the warm weather and line-dry your garments. • Keep it cool: Use the cold-water setting when washing clothes. This can cut your bill by 4 percent. • Cover up: Keep windows covered during the day by closing blinds or drapes to keep out solar heat. • Insulate it: Prevent the heat building on top of your house from filtering down into other areas by insulating your attic. • Change it up: Switch the direction of airflow on ceiling fans. The blades should spin counterclockwise during the summertime. • Ditch the oven: Microwaves not only get your food on the table faster, but they also generate less heat. • Made in the shade: Keep your air conditioner shielded from direct sunlight. • Weather-strip and caulk: Taking the time to do this around doors and windows keeps the cool air in and the hot air out. • Try a fan: Whole-house fans work to cool your home by driving cold air through the house and draining warm air through the attic. • Unplug: Turn off power strips or unplug devices to eliminate phantom power usage and reduce the heat these products generate. • Let it shine: Install compact fluorescent light bulbs in your most-used fixtures for big savings.
tnconnections
An Official Publication of Your Locally Owned Municipal Electric System
tnconnections.com
Soak up summer memories on the Hiwassee River
Float On
Farmers Market to Table
Summer recipes highlight seasonal produce fresh from the farm
tn almanac
Travel, tips and tidbits at a glance
Fireflies in Sync
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to 14 species of fireflies, and one of them – called Photinus carolinus – attracts quite a bit of attention. This species is the only one in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns, creating an impressive show for lucky viewers. The fireflies can be seen at Elkmont Campground approximately June 6-13 this year. Park biologists predict when they appear based on past years. The park organizes nightly viewings during the peak season. No cars are allowed in the campground after 5 p.m., but non-camping visitors can ride a $1 shuttle from the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking lot. For dates and ticket information, call (865) 436-1200.
Up in the Air
Professional pilots show off their sky-high skills at the annual Wings Over Halls Air Show. Spectators can see a team aerodynamics show and historic warbirds. The event features more than 30 World War II-era planes, including the B-17 Yankee Lady and other models. “It’s a return to the time when country meant everything,” says Pat Higdon, director of the Veterans’ Museum, which organizes the event. The air show soars into West Tennessee Aug. 17-18 at Dyersburg Army Air Base. Gates open daily at 10 a.m. with shows beginning at 1:30 p.m. Spectators are invited to visit the aircraft on the ramp before and after the show. Advance tickets cost $8 and are available after July 1 at area banks and through mail. Admission at the gate is $15. To request tickets through mail, call (731) 836-7400 or order them from Wings Over Halls, 100 Veterans’ Drive, Halls, TN 38040. For more details on the air show, visit dyaab.us.
Home of the Hams
When lunchtime rolls around in the West Tennessee community of Eads, hungry workers and townsfolk pile into Canale’s Grocery for its out-of-this-world ham sandwiches. The combination grocery store, butcher shop and gas station opened in 1970 in a simple cement-block building, and the family-owned business quickly became famous for its smoked hams. The Canale family arrives at 3 a.m. most days to smoke the hams for five to seven hours. Customers can stop by in the morning beginning at 6 a.m. for a hot breakfast biscuit to-go, or at lunch for a ham sandwich (a bargain at $2.50) piled high with the works. The family also sells whole and half hams year-round. Canale’s Grocery is located at 10170 Raleigh-LaGrange Road East in Eads and is open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. to noon. For more information, call (901) 853-9490.
photo courtesy of steve vickery
contents
tnconnections
Summer 2013 Edition Content Director Jessy Yancey Contributing Writers Rebecca Denton, Roben Mounger, Cassandra M. Vanhooser Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Rachel Bertone Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Michael Conti, Wendy Jo O’Barr, Frank Ordonez Creative Services Director Christina Carden Graphic Designer Kara Leiby Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Sr. V.P./Sales Todd Potter Sr. V.P./Operations Casey Hester Sr. V.P./Agribusiness Publishing Kim Holmberg V.P./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens Controller Chris Dudley Integrated Media Manager Robin Robertson Distribution Director Gary Smith Receptionist Linda Bishop Tennessee Connections is published quarterly by Journal Communications Inc. for participating members of the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association. TMEPA represents 61 municipal power distributors in Tennessee, which serve more than 2 million customers. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067. Phone: 615-771-0080. Email: [email protected]. For information about TMEPA, contact: Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association Paddock 1, Suite C-13, 229 Ward Circle Brentwood, TN 37027 Phone 615-373-5738, Fax 615-373-1901 tmepa.org Executive Director Mike Vinson
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Features
4 Float On
Webb Brothers Float Service helps families make memories on the Hiwassee River Williamson County family adds value to dairy farm by offering tours and opening country store Recipes use fresh produce to highlight summer flavors
6 Meet the Milk Makers
©Copyright 2013 Journal Communications Inc. and Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. ON THE COVER: Eggplants at a farmers market. Photo by Michael Conti
10 Farmers Market to Table
tnconnections.com
summer 2013
Departments
2 Municipal Power Perspective 3 Tennessee in Focus 12 Taste of Tennessee 14 Summer Activities in Tennessee 17 Connect to Tennessee Products
tnconnections
An Official Publication of Your Locally Owned Municipal Electric System
Digital Magazine
Flip through the pages of the magazine without leaving your laptop. Print and email articles and instantly link to advertisers.
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Soak up summer memories on the Hiwassee River
FloaT on
Farmers Market to Table
Summer recipes highlight seasonal produce fresh from the farm
Summer 2013
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municipal power perspective
Change is in the Air
Learn about the latest legislation from the most recent session
Katie Hitt
Director of Government Relations Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association
Membership
Alcoa Electric Department Athens Utilities Board Benton County Electric System Bolivar Energy Authority Bristol Tennessee Essential Services Brownsville Utility Department Carroll County Electrical Department Electric Power Board of Chattanooga CDE Lightband – Clarksville Cleveland Utilities Clinton Utilities Board Columbia Power & Water System Cookeville Department of Electricity Covington Electric System Dayton Electric Department Dickson Electric System Dyersburg Electric System Elizabethton Electric Department Erwin Utilities Etowah Utilities Department Gallatin Department of Electricity Greeneville Light & Power System Harriman Utility Board Humboldt Utilities Jackson Energy Authority Jellico Electric & Water Systems Johnson City Power Board Knoxville Utilities Board LaFollette Utilities Lawrenceburg Utility Systems Lenoir City Utilities Board Lewisburg Electric System Lexington Electric System Loudon Utilities City of Maryville Electric Department McMinnville Electric System Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division Milan Department of Public Utilities Morristown Utility Commission Mount Pleasant Power System Murfreesboro Electric Department Nashville Electric Service Newbern Electric Department Newport Utilities City of Oak Ridge Electric Department Paris Board of Public Utilities Pulaski Electric System Ripley Power and Light Company Rockwood Electric Utility Sevier County Electric System Shelbyville Power System Smithville Electric System Sparta Electric System Springfield Electric Department Sweetwater Utilities Board Trenton Light & Water Department Tullahoma Utilities Board Union City Electric System Weakley County Municipal Electric System Winchester Utilities
Spring arrived in March, and along with the new season, other changes are worth noting. The legislature took on many important issues this session, including several that impact your local municipal electric utility. Pole attachments fees and operational issues are a perennial issue at the legislature. Usually we take a defensive role, but this year, we turned the tables on the cable companies (the attaching parties) and filed our own legislation. Our bill, House Bill 1111 by Rep. Jimmy Matlock, R-Lenoir City, and Senate Bill 1222 by Speaker Pro Tempore Bo Watson, R-Chattanooga, sought to put in place an operational working group, best practices and a dispute resolution process for entities who attach their cables to our power poles. We received extensive feedback from legislators across the state. While the bill did not become law this session, pole attachments are an issue the legislature intends to address this summer via a study committee. As pole owners, we believe that anyone attaching to our poles should share the cost. House Bill 51 by Rep. David Alexander, R-Winchester, and Senate Bill 78 by Senator Jim Tracy, R-Shelbyville, passed through the legislative process and became Public
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Chapter 2 this session (see details at http://state.tn.us/sos/acts/108pub/ pc0002.pdf).This legislation was filed early and passed early. The initiative was brought by the Office of the Comptroller of the Treasury. The previous law limited participation in the rural economic development loan and grant program to municipalities in six counties. Under the new law, all municipally owned electric systems who wish to participate may do so. The purpose of the program is to promote economic and industrial development. Municipal electric utilities may participate as both a borrower and a lender in the rural economic development loan and grant program established and administered by the federal rural development administration. As you know, electricity is a vital part of economic development. Our local utilities work with economic development officials on a routine basis. This program provides yet another avenue for municipal electric systems to help the communities they serve. This is an optional program and does not require any electric system to participate. It’s inevitable that changes will continue. We’ll also continue do what we can to protect your local municipal electric system and their ratepayers.
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Tennessee Connections
tn in focus
Staff Photo
Iris Garden at the Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville
Summer 2013
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feature
Float
Soak up memories on the Hiwassee River with Webb Brothers Float Service
On
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Tennessee Connections
“D
story by Cassandra M. Vanhooser
o it,” she says, a glimmer of devilment dancing in her eyes. “I dare you.” Never one to ignore a challenge, especially from a sassy teenager, I saunter to the edge of the Hiwassee River and plunge my sandaled feet ankle-deep in the rushing water. Before I can edit my response, I jump back and squeal: “Brrrrr! That’s frigid!” My friends laugh as I hop about trying to warm my blue toes. So does our driver, Jamie, as he unloads the rafts we rented at Webb Brothers Float Service and Country Store. “I can’t tell you why,” he says, “but the water here seems to be colder somehow. It’s clearer, too. Y’all have a good trip.” With that, he waves goodbye. We stand forlornly by our rafts, trying to figure out how to launch our watercraft without getting wet.
The Cool Hiwassee
Staff Photo
Even on the hottest days of the summer, the Hiwassee’s chilly temperature comes as a bit of a shock. The water makes an 8.3-mile trek through a pipeline at the base of Appalachia Dam in North Carolina to a powerhouse just above Reliance, in the southeast corner of Tennessee. From here, the Tennessee Valley Authority releases the water back into the river after using it to generate hydroelectric power. Most days, TVA irrigates this natural playground from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., delighting legions of rafters, kayakers and fishermen. In drought years, the flow can be less, but with normal rainfall, recreational floaters can count on having water. The boat launch at the base of the powerhouse enjoys a steady stream of traffic from Memorial Day to Labor Day. “My friends over on the Ocoee say, ‘Why do you fool with that second-class river over there?’ ” says Harold Webb, whose family started
the river’s first rafting service. “But they don’t know what they’re talking about. They’ve got the whitewater, but we’ve got a great outdoor experience here. It’s an easy paddling experience, great for families, church groups and beginning kayakers.” Few people know this river valley better than Harold. He grew up in the back rooms of the old country store his father and uncle founded during the Depression. It was used for generations as a post office, supply center and general gathering spot for the community. While his parents tended the store, Harold got to know the river. After his freshman year at the University of Tennessee, Harold returned home to find that he no longer had a boat to use for floating and fishing the river. His dad was renting it to strangers. His uncle Oliver had even absconded with Harold’s old inner tubes and was renting those out, too. The brothers would load folks up in the farm’s cattle truck, haul them up the winding Forest Service road and drop them off upriver. Harold recalls how the Hiwassee has become more regulated over the years, since becoming a State Scenic River in 1972. “Alcohol was banned in 1975,” he says, “and life jackets became mandatory in 1976.”
What’s in Store
Yet, it’s the Hiwassee River Valley’s natural beauty that continues to attract visitors. The peaks of the Blue Ridge press against the sky. Black-eyed Susans, wild touch-me-nots, and Queen Anne’s lace flower the river’s banks, while trout slide through deep, rock-protected pools. Still, Harold notes that tubing is for the young and athletic (minimum age 10) and requires some skill, as you have to navigate the Class II and III rapids. “With tubing, you are actually sitting in the water and the water is quite cold,” he explains. “Rafting, on the other hand, is suitable for all ages because you are more protected from the water.” The Hiwassee turns out to be the perfect hostess for my day of fun and family. It takes only minutes for our party to adjust to the water’s chill. Later in the day, when the sun chases the clouds away, a dip in the river becomes a welcome relief. We swim, play and embrace the splashing rapids as we steadily tumble toward our journey’s end. We fondly remember old friends and family and share plans for the future. When at last we cross Devils Shoals, a series of rapids we hear long before we reach them, the bridge marking the end of our trip comes into view. We approach the takeout point with smiles, knowing we’ve already finalized plans for our next trip.
A low, flat building with benches lining the covered porch, the Webb Brothers General Store still sits at the intersection of State Roads 30 and 315. Though the rafting experience has changed some, the store continues to serve as the launching point for many a trip down the Hiwassee. In addition to gasoline, Harold sells cold drinks and snacks, as well as sunscreen and basic supplies. Lots of people sport T-shirts they buy here after their trip.
Know Before You Go
Webb Brothers Float Service and General Store Location: 3708 Highway 30, Reliance, TN 37369 Contact: (877) 932-7238 (toll-free), (423) 338-2373, webbbros.com Tubing, the more challenging option for ages 10 and over, costs $27 for a one-person float and $54 for two people. Rafts, for any age with a responsible adult, cost $22 per person with a $50 minimum. Prices include life jackets (mandatory for kids), paddles and shuttle service. As always, please call ahead before traveling long distances and to learn more about what to expect on these excursions.
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Tennessee Connections
the Meet Milk Makers
Williamson County family adds value to dairy farm by offering tours and opening country store
story by Rebecca Denton photography by Staff Photographer
rom the Hatcher family’s small country store on Arno Road in Williamson County, visitors can see the rolling forest and pastureland that make up the 400-acre Hatcher Family Dairy Farm. Directly across the street is a churned-up swath of earth that will soon become The Grove, an 18-hole golf course with 800 homes, a clubhouse, spa and fitness center. The new development is an all-too-tangible sign of what’s happening to many dairies throughout the Southeast, the Hatchers say. But the family has no plans to sell their fifth-generation farm. Instead, in a final effort to save their dairy business and make it profitable for years to come, they have drastically changed the way they operate. “We knew we had encroaching development, and the costs of fuel and fertilizer are rising,” says Charlie Hatcher, a veterinarian and partner in the dairy business with
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his brother, Jim. “If we wanted to stay here and make a go of it and be profitable, we had to try something different – some way to add value to our product.”
Middle Tennessee area. They also opened their own country store – right on the farm – to sell milk directly to area consumers.
A Brand of Their Own
All in the Family
For decades the family sold its pasture-derived product to a milk cooperative, which combined the Hatchers’ milk with milk from other farms before sending it to be sold in stores. But in 2007, the Hatchers branded their own milk and started selling straight to the public, tapping into a growing niche market of consumers who prefer to buy their food directly from the source. “A lot of people are concerned about where their food comes from and how the animals are treated,” Charlie says. “And they like to know who they’re dealing with.” Hatcher Dairy sells its milk at Whole Foods Market in Nashville and Cool Springs as well as in several local grocery stores in the
The Hatchers – a tight-knit farming family with an unwavering sense of loyalty to their land and heritage – are ideal candidates for this sort of back-to-basics venture. Brothers Charlie and Jim have been partners in the dairy since the early 1990s, and the entire family pitches in to keep things running smoothly. Jim is the farm manager, and he also takes the lead during processing day and makes some milk deliveries. Charlie’s wife, Sharon, manages the country store, and his daughter, Jennifer, is a veterinarian (like her dad) who fills in where needed. Charlie’s son, Charles, is co-manager of the dairy and manages the milk delivery routes. Lucy Hatcher – sister to Charlie and Jim – is the farm tour director and “chief cleaner and organizer.”
The Hatchers put a custom label on their farm-fresh milk. The milk is sold in grocery stores and farmers markets around Middle Tennessee. Summer 2013 tnconnections.com
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Part of the farm has been in the Hatcher family since 1831, and they’ve been milking cows continuously since that time – either by hand or by machine. These days the Hatchers have about 60 adult milk cows, including Holsteins, Jerseys, cross-breeds and two Brown Swiss heifers. The cows graze in pastures year-round, rotating among 11 paddock lots planted with seasonal grasses – a major selling point. “Our cows get clean, fresh pasture on a daily basis, and that is the huge thing that sets our milk apart,” Jim says. “It’s strictly Hatcher milk, and we’re with it every step of the way – from growing the grasses and milking the cows to processing. It’s ensured quality.” Visitors to the dairy’s website, hatcherfamilydairy.com, can see photos and read about the cows. “We wanted to let milk drinkers know a little bit about the cows that are working so hard,” Charlie says. “We wanted to personalize it. The majority are named, and they’re all part of the Hatcher family.” The Hatchers’ signature chocolate milk is named “Brownie’s Best” after a beloved Brown Swiss cow that lived on the farm for many years before she died. The farm also produces whole, two percent and skim milk, along with butter, cream, half-and-half and gelato.
The Milking Process
“It’s been so rewarding because of the people who drink our milk,” Charlie says. “On a daily basis people say, ‘We appreciate what you’re doing, we’re glad it’s local and we’re glad it’s family.’” The Hatchers are counting on loyal customers like Dawn Redlin of College Grove, who comes in every week to buy three half-gallon jugs of whole milk, and new customers like Sally Lewis of Thompson’s Station. “I like the idea of local products and supporting local agriculture,” says Lewis, who stopped in after hearing from coworkers that she should check out the store. In addition to milk, the Hatchers sell other all-natural,
Loyal Customers
locally made products including soaps, candles, salsas, jellies, barbecue sauces and cheeses. The store also offers sandwiches on locally baked bread, Hatcherbranded tote bags and T-shirts – and visitors can check email using the free Wi-Fi. Farm tours are available on Thursdays by reservation for $6 per person. “Some days I’m overwhelmed,” Sharon says of business at the store, “and it’s mostly been word of mouth.” They’re hoping the momentum continues. “We all work very hard, and there’s still not a lot of profit involved,” Jim says. “But selling the land is not an option. We feel it’s not really ours to sell. We’re just going to try to pass it on to the next generation.”
Got Dairy?
Since the 1990s, we’ve seen our favorite celebrities wearing milk mustaches to promote the health benefits of milk. But June Dairy Month has been keeping the importance of dairy in the forefront of people’s minds for much longer – since 1937. Seventy-six years ago, the promotion launched as “National Milk Month” supported by the National Dairy Council and was dubbed “June Dairy Month” in 1939. It was originally designed to increase dairy demand during the summer months of peak production, but June Dairy Month transformed into promoting the overall use of dairy foods in the mid-1950s.
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In Tennessee, communities celebrate with parades and festivals, such as Greene County Partnership’s June Dairy Days Celebration and National MooFest in Athens. The Tennessee 4-H Club sponsors a poster contest for members and honors the winners at a luncheon in Nashville. Visit southeastdairy.org to learn about ways to celebrate June Dairy Month. For more information about the Hatchers, call (615) 368-3405 or go to hatcherfamilydairy.com.
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Tennessee Connections
Farmers Market toTable
Recipes use fresh produce to highlight summer flavors
photography by Jeffrey S. Otto
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njoy the freshness of your local farmers’ fare with these surprisingly simple treats. Shopping directly from your farmer is becoming easier than ever. Farmers markets, roadside stands and CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) present ways to partake in the trend, and crowds are flocking to take advantage of the market scene’s bounty. In honor of summer’s seasonal produce, we’ve compiled a list of recipes perfect for the healthconscious, the serious foodie or the casual consumer. It’s an effortless and tasty way to support your local farmers. Of course, these recipes can be enjoyed any
time of the year after a trip to your grocery store. Start off with a cold vegetable salad that marinates Tennessee tomatoes and crisp cucumbers in a sweet mustard vinaigrette. Follow that with a Southern favorite – stuffed peppers – but instead of traditional beef and rice, go Mediterranean by filling it with lamb and couscous. To take advantage of the season’s freshest flavors, try this easy, delicious summer succotash. Simply throw together your market favorites such as green beans, zucchini, corn and tomatoes, and sauté with fresh herbs for a hearty side or main dish.
Tomato-Cucumber Salad
¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup white wine vinegar 4 teaspoons yellow mustard 2 teaspoons sugar 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 pound farm-fresh tomatoes 1 English cucumber Mix oils, vinegar, mustard, sugar, salt and pepper together. Slice tomatoes into quarters. Halve cucumber and slice into half moons. Pour dressing over tomatoes and cucumber slices. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Let stand at room temperature about 20 minutes before serving.
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Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Couscous
1 cup pearl couscous ¼ cup chicken stock 2 tablespoons olive oil
Stuffing
½ pound ground lamb ½ cup small onion, diced ½ teaspoon garlic, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped ½ teaspoon ground fennel ½ teaspoon ground coriander ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 4 sweet bell peppers, tops cut off with seeds removed
Couscous
Boil chicken stock, add couscous, reduce heat to a simmer and cook on very low for 8 minutes. Take off heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Pour out of pot, fluff and toss with olive oil. Set aside.
Stuffing
Sauté onion in two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until translucent. Add garlic and cook, stirring for 30 seconds. Add lamb, ground fennel, coriander, salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until thoroughly brown. Combine lamb mixture, couscous and parsley. Salt to taste. Stuff inside sweet bell peppers and bake at 400 degrees for approximately 20 minutes.
Summer Succotash
1 ½ cups onion, chopped butter (for sautéing) 1 cup fresh zucchini, coarsely chopped 3 cups fresh corn kernels 1 cup fresh green beans, blanched and cut in half-inch pieces 1 cup tomatoes, coarsely chopped 2 teaspoons kosher salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 3 tablespoons fresh basil, coarsely chopped 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped In a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat, sauté onion in butter until soft, about 2 minutes. Add chopped zucchini, and sauté 3 minutes. Stir in corn, tomatoes and blanched green beans. Add salt, pepper, basil and cilantro. Heat until mixture is hot.
More Online
Find other seasonally inspired recipes online at farmflavor.com.
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taste of tn
An Aubergine
Eggplant may be an acquired taste, but don’t be afraid
story by Roben Mounger
Picnic
About the Author
Roben Mounger cooks today as she has for the past 20 years, using seasonal elements produced by her local CSA and farmers market. Inspired by the musings of Barbara Kingsolver in Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, she spent a year in a farm internship and now writes a column for The Columbia Daily Herald. She connects ideas about healing family and community with homemade food in her blog of revelations and recipes at mscookstable.com.
he first time that my husband introduced us, Aunt Mary embraced me with a bony, viselike grip. Mary had a curiously forced enthusiasm for all things familial, having been raised within a challenging set of alliances. Given a minister father, a somber mother, a dominating sister and a triumphant younger brother, she fought for her place in the world. On occasion, our families would meet on the Natchez Trace to picnic with Mary and her taciturn husband, Gail. She would invite us to rendezvous with internationally adopted kin, a bunch whom she and Gail had taken in. The last time I saw Mary, we scooped her up from her retirement home in Memphis en route to Jackson, Miss., to attend her brother’s funeral. She noted the haste in which we traveled: “This is Paul Revere’s wild ride, but I am not afraid.” Despite her fearlessness at that time, I later found that Mary did harbor a trepidation for something surprising – the vegetable. Upon her passing, I came across a 10-cent spiral notebook in which she meticulously registered her version of good eats. Sadly for my family, it contained a plethora of variations on sugar and gelatin, no doubt, in anticipation for her favored outing, the picnic. Oddly, her penchant for other cultures did not extend into the food world, although I am sure if properly introduced, she would have appreciated the eggplant, also known
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by its French name, the aubergine. Many folks who are new to the eggplant perceive a bitterness that often accompanies an undercooked or under-salted version of the fruit – and they never venture another taste test. The eggplant, like the tomato, is a nightshade plant that originated in the East, possibly during the fifth century. Though it contains nicotine (as a cousin to tobacco), its health benefits reign over any disadvantages, as the eggplant provides folic acid, magnesium and a propensity for lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Tossing it on the grill proved a foolproof positive introduction to our growing children. To this day, we find grilled eggplant useful for salads and sandwiches during the subsequent week. I discovered this barbecue dish, a favored eggplant preparation, in a 1969 cookbook, It’s a Picnic by Nancy Fair McIntyre. Take a stack of eggplant, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, basil, oregano and pat of butter, folded inside individual foil packets, and place on the grill for about 15 minutes. Another preferred portable version, Moroccan Eggplant Salad is surprisingly sanctioned by my husband, a former eggplant-phobic. Delicious on its own, you can also serve it on toasted pita with additional herb-infused oil, or use it to intensify a bowl of pasta. Aunt Mary might consider it a wild ride, but I know that amidst the big reunion picnic in the sky, she would give me an appreciative hug.
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Staff photo
Moroccan Eggplant Salad
1 scant teaspoon cumin seeds 1 pound firm eggplant 1 small red onion, chopped 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, chopped and divided ½ teaspoon salt Toast cumin seed in a dry 10-inch heavy cast iron skillet, stirring occasionally until fragrant and dark brown. Cool, and then grind into a powder with an electric coffee or spice grinder. In a large skillet over medium heat, pan roast the whole eggplant, turning frequently with tongs until blackened and tender all over, at least 30 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board. Cut off and discard stem. Scrape flesh from skin, and coarsely chop. In a large bowl, combine onion, vinegar, sugar, 1 tablespoon of oil, 1 tablespoon of parsley, ½ teaspoon of toasted cumin and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add eggplant, and toss well. Serve in a shallow bowl, drizzle with remaining oil and sprinkle with remaining parsley and toasted cumin.
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events
Summer in Tennessee
Festivals, celebrations, activities and more
more than 800 horses including hunter/ jumpers, American Saddlebreds, Roaster and Hackney ponies and Tennessee Walking Horses. CONTACT: (901) 754-0009, gchs.org
June 6-9, Nashville
“Country Music’s Biggest Party” brings country fans from all over the world to see some of the genre’s biggest artists for four days and nights of live music. CONTACT: (800) 262-3378, cmafest.com
CMA Music Festival
June 7-9, Johnson City
Blue Plum Art & Music Festival
This outdoor music and arts festival in downtown Johnson City features children’s entertainment, live music and more. CONTACT: blueplum.org
June 7-15, Chattanooga
Riverbend Festival
Make your way to this internationally award-winning 9-day music festival! Enjoy multiple stages of diverse music on the waterfront plus fireworks, a 5K and 10K run and a children’s village. CONTACT: (423) 756-2211, riverbendfestival.com
June 14-15, Nashville
Jefferson Street Jazz & Blues Festival Bring the whole family to this lively
Jeffrey S. OTTO
music festival. Enjoy great food and see local jazz and blues musicians perform. CONTACT: (615) 726-5867, jumptojefferson.com
June 15, Bell Buckle
Miranda Lambert perfroms at the annual CMA Music Festival in downtown Nashville.
Bell Buckle’s RC & Moon Pie Festival Celebrate a true Southern
tradition with music, cloggers, games, crafts and the cutting of the world’s largest Moon Pie. CONTACT: (931) 389-9663, bellbucklechamber.com
This listing includes a selection of events of statewide interest scheduled in June, July and August as provided to Tennessee Home & Farm by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. To include your local events in our listing, please contact them at www.tnvacation.com. Due to space constraints, we are unable to list all of the events provided or accept unsolicited events. However, you can find additional information and events at the department’s website. Events are subject to date change or cancellation. Please call the contact listed before traveling long distances to attend.
June 18, Spring Hill
June
June 1, Coopertown
June 1, Athens
National Moofest Dairy Festival
Celebrate June Dairy Month at the National Moofest Dairy Festival. Participate in ice cream and dairy-themed contests, enjoy music, arts and crafts, food and more. CONTACT: nationalmoofest.com
Coopertown Barrel Festival
Join in the celebration as Coopertown presents its first annual Coopertown Barrel Festival. This outdoor event honors the heritage of the cooper, as well as the founders of the town. Enjoy live music, carnival games, local food, talents and wares from the community. CONTACT: (615) 382-4470, coopertowntn.org 14
This free educational event offers visitors a chance to learn about the production of small fruits like grapes and blueberries, and how they can easily be grown in the backyard. The field day also trains guests on maintaining the more traditional “fruits” of their yards, such as beautiful shrubs and lush lawns. Begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Middle Tennessee Research & Education Center. Contact: (731) 425-4768, middletennessee.tennessee.edu
Fruits of the Backyard
June 21-22, Oak Ridge
Secret City Festival
June 4-8, Memphis
Germantown Charity Horse Show
Don’t miss this exciting all-breed event with
This 11th annual citywide celebration commemorates the 68th anniversary ending of WWII and features the largest multi-battle WWII reenactment in the South, as well as tours of Manhattan Project sites, children’s Tennessee Connections
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festival, arts, crafts and more. CONTACT: (865) 425-3610, secretcityfestival.com
July 4, Knoxville
Festival on the Fourth
June 21-Aug. 10, Gatlinburg
Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales
The 7th anniversary of this annual celebration features storytellers, musicians and cloggers at different locations along the Parkway. CONTACT: (865) 436-0500, gatlinburg.com
This patriotic celebration features live entertainment, family fun and more beginning at 4:30 p.m. at World’s Fair Park. CONTACT: (865) 215-4248, cityofknoxville.org
tours, family reunions, music, craftsmen and family fun for all ages. It’s also the final weekend of the Sutton Homestead’s Hats Off to Our Past exhibit. CONTACT: (931) 653-4151, granvilletn.com
July 4, Chattanooga
July 11, Jackson
Tobacco Beef & More The MidSouth’s beef and tobacco producers will want to attend this free educational event which features the state’s leading experts on topics such as animal health, forage, burley and dark fired tobacco production. Tobacco Beef & More begins at 7:00 a.m. at the Highland Rim Research & Education Center. CONTACT: (731) 425-4768, [email protected]
June 28-30, Knoxville
This fun event showcases local African-American art and artists, featuring entertainers performing on three stages, live demonstrations and food vendors. CONTACT: knoxville.org
June 27, Springfield
Independence Day Weekend Fireworks Explosive fireworks, food,
games and rides at Lake Winnepesaukah to celebrate our nation. CONTACT: (877) 525-3946, lakewinnie.com
Summer Celebration Lawn & Garden Show Hear presentations from
the region’s leading gardening experts. Walk through beautiful garden displays and get plant problems diagnosed. Find great performing plants at the Master Gardener Plant Sale. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 17 and under. The Celebration begins at 10 a.m. at the West Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center. CONTACT: (731) 425-4768, west.tennessee.edu
July 4, Knoxville
Independence Day Parade
Floats, animals and antique cars parade down Kingston Pike at 9:30 a.m. on the morning of July 4. CONTACT: knoxville.org/events
July 5-6, Smithville
July 11-27, Elizabethton
Kuumba Festival
Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree & Crafts Festival This fun-filled festival
features various state and national bluegrass championships, jam sessions and juried craft exhibitors. CONTACT: (615) 597-4163, smithvillejamboree.com
“Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals” Tennessee’s official outdoor
drama continues for a three-weekend run – Thursdays through Saturdays – in Fort Watauga Amphitheater. CONTACT: sycamoreshoalstn.org
June 30, Lancaster
Lancaster Parade
Take part in the celebration of “One Nation Under God” as patriots from all over Middle Tennessee come to participate in this year’s 9th annual Independence Day parade beginning at 6 p.m. (line up at 5). Stay for Bluegrass on the Greens, a special concert performance by the 129th Army Band, great barbecue, apple pie, homemade ice cream and a spectacular fireworks show at dark thirty. bring your lawn chairs and be a part of small town U.S.A. celebrating in a big way! CONTACT: (615) 683-6131, lancasterparade.org
July 5-7, Granville
July 12-13, Ripley
Genealogy Festival & Family Reunion In celebration of July being
Genealogy Month, the historic town of Granville will conduct a Genealogy Festival with noted speakers, genealogy booths,
Lauderdale County Tomato Festival
This two-day celebration honors area tomato growers with carnival rides, a petting zoo, games, crafts, live music and tomato tastings.
July
July 3-4, Gatlinburg
Midnight Independence Day Parade The “First July Fourth Parade of
the Nation” kicks off at midnight on July 4. Floats, balloons and marching bands pay tribute to our country. CONTACT: (865) 436-4178, gatlinburg.com
July 4, Nashville
Music City July Fourth Spectacular
This annual event is Nashville’s largest one-day party. Enjoy live music, family activities, food and one of the nation’s best fireworks displays. CONTACT: (800) 657-6910 Summer 2013 tnconnections.com
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CONTACT: (731) 635-9541, lauderdalecountytn.org
July 12-14, Murfreesboro
36th Annual Uncle Dave Macon Days Festival This festival honors the
memory of Uncle Dave Macon, one of the first Grand Ole Opry superstars and features music, arts and crafts, food, storytelling and competitions. CONTACT: (800) 716-7560, uncledavemacondays.com
Square dancing is the official folk dance of Tennessee. Square dancers from around the state will gather for three days of dancing, shopping and more. Spectators welcome at no charge. CONTACT: (615) 542-2866
Fame Museum. CONTACT: (731) 427-6262, rockabillyhall.org
Aug. 10, East Nashville
Tomato Art Fest
Aug. 1-4, Jamestown
127 Corridor Sale
127sale.com
The world’s longest yard sale stretches for 675 miles along U.S. Highway 127. CONTACT: (800) 327-3945,
July 12-20, Kingsport
Kingsport Fun Fest
(865) 828-4222
Live concerts, children’s activities and hot-air balloons fill this family-friendly festival. CONTACT:
Williamson County Fair Celebrating its ninth year, the theme of this year’s fair is “Rock Around the Fair.” Guests can enjoy food, fun, competitive exhibits and more. CONTACT: williamsoncountyfair.org
Aug. 3-4, Cleveland
Aug. 2-10, Franklin
This artsy festival at Five Points in East Nashville celebrates the tomato as a uniter, not a divider. Events include a dog-friendly 5K, tomato fairy costume contest, New Orleans-style parade, bobbing for tomatoes, tomato recipe contest and much more. CONTACT: tomatoartfest.com
Aug. 10-16, Memphis
Elvis Week
July 26-28, Rutledge
This year makrs the 36th anniversary of the celebration of Elvis Presley’s music, movies and life. The event includes a candlelight vigil. CONTACT: (800) 238-2000, elvis.com
Grainger County Tomato Festival
Don’t miss out on Civil War encampment, arts and cultural exposition, tomato wars, entertainment and more at this fun festival. CONTACT: (865) 828-4222, graingercountytomatofestival.com
Cherokee Days of Recognition
Living history, authentic crafts and food are front and center at the 30th annual Cherokee Days of Recognition, held at Red Clay State Historic Park. CONTACT: (423) 478-0339, tn.gov/environment/parks/RedClay
Aug. 17-18, Halls
Wings Over Halls Air Show
August
Aug. 1-3, Gatlinburg
Annual air show held at the Dyersburg Army Air Base. See inside front cover of this issue for details. CONTACT: (731) 836-7400, dyaab.us
Aug. 9-10, Jackson
Aug. 21-31, Shelbyville
Rock-A-Billy Festival
Tennessee State Square and Round Dance Convention
Head to Jackson for the world’s largest gathering of Rock-A-Billy artists and musicians at the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of
75th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration
The world championship show of Tennessee’s native breed of show horse. Division champions will be crowned, and the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse will be named. CONTACT: (931) 684-5951, twhnc.com
Aug. 30-31, Jackson
African Street Festival Join in the celebration of African-American cultural awareness with entertainment, workshops, educational seminars and more. CONTACT: (731) 267-3212, saaca.com
Green Travel Tips
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Carpool whenever possible to reduce your carbon footprint – and you’ll also spend less money on gas.
Staying overnight? Unplug major appliances to save energy and lower your electric bill.
Support Tennessee’s sustainable tourism. Find green lodging, dining and attractions at tnvacation.com/green.
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Tennessee Connections
connect to tn products
Statewide roundup of favorite finds
Sweeten Your Health
Fred Tyler of Dandridge started making raw honey as a hobby with just a few beehives. “I suffered from allergies, and I had heard raw honey might help,” he says. “Pretty soon my friends and neighbors wanted to buy it for health reasons, too.” Tyler became state-certified and now has between 50 and 100 beehives from which he makes about 100 gallons of raw honey every year. Why raw? “When honey is processed, it gets heated, and that kills all the natural enzymes you’d want for good health,” Tyler explains. He sells his all-natural honey at several Dandridge businesses, including Ray’s Printing and Owens Restaurant. He also takes orders by phone and email. Contact Tyler at (865) 322-3363 or [email protected].
Succulent Seasonings
Make your cookout cuisine taste extra savory this summer with a little help from Doug Jeffords Co. in Franklin. The company has been making seasonings and spices by hand for more than 50 years, ranging from seasoning salts and barbecue rubs to ham cures, breadings and batters for cornbread, country biscuits and sweet potato pancakes. In 1961, Doug Jeffords established the company after gaining a following in Middle Tennessee for his delicious sausage seasonings. Today, the company operates out of a 12,000-square-foot facility in Cool Springs near historic downtown Franklin and supplies meat packers and restaurants near and far. To see a complete list of their products or to order, visit dougjeffords.com.
Zuzu’s Joy
After her home was hit by two tornado-force storms within a week in 2011, Susan Newbill of Greenfield decided to focus her life on things that are really important – family and creating joy for others. She left her stressful career in software development and began capitalizing on her love for entertaining by creating handmade mixes for dips, desserts, soups, hot beverages and fruit teas. Her business, Zuzu’s Joy, produces the Tennessee Farm Country Gourmet line of products now sold in more than 30 stores in Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi. Newbill makes, among other things, sweet ginger and tiramisu fruit dips, fruit tea mixes in five flavors and six kinds of homestyle soups. Visit zuzusjoy.com to see more products or place an order.
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Summer Energy-Saving Tips
Use these tips to beat the heat this summer
• Take a break: Suprisingly, running your dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand actually saves water. • Enjoy the season: Instead of putting your clothes in the dryer, take advantage of the warm weather and line-dry your garments. • Keep it cool: Use the cold-water setting when washing clothes. This can cut your bill by 4 percent. • Cover up: Keep windows covered during the day by closing blinds or drapes to keep out solar heat. • Insulate it: Prevent the heat building on top of your house from filtering down into other areas by insulating your attic. • Change it up: Switch the direction of airflow on ceiling fans. The blades should spin counterclockwise during the summertime. • Ditch the oven: Microwaves not only get your food on the table faster, but they also generate less heat. • Made in the shade: Keep your air conditioner shielded from direct sunlight. • Weather-strip and caulk: Taking the time to do this around doors and windows keeps the cool air in and the hot air out. • Try a fan: Whole-house fans work to cool your home by driving cold air through the house and draining warm air through the attic. • Unplug: Turn off power strips or unplug devices to eliminate phantom power usage and reduce the heat these products generate. • Let it shine: Install compact fluorescent light bulbs in your most-used fixtures for big savings.
