Fall 2008, Tennessee Home and Farm

STRINGS ATTACHEDCraftsman makes dulcimers, then plays them

SEE VIDEO ONLINE

tnfarmbureau.org Published for the 633,900 family members of the Tennessee Farm Bureau

Home & FarmCATCH THE SPIRITAdams overflows with history and mystery

SERVICE FOR EIGHTGet your party started with our fall dinner menu

tnhomeandfarm.comFall 2008

Tennessee

TENNESSEE HOME & FARM(USPS No. 022-305)Issued quarterly by the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, 147 Bear Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401, (931) 388-7872. Periodical permit paid at Columbia, TN, and additional entry offices.

POSTMASTERSend address corrections to: Tennessee Home & Farm Executive Offices, P.O. Box 313, Columbia, TN 38402-0313.

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All advertising accepted is subject to publishers approval. Advertisers must assume all liability for content of their advertising. Publisher and Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation maintain the right to cancel advertising for nonpayment or read-er complaint about advertiser service or product. Publisher does not accept political or alcoholic beverage ads, nor does publisher prescreen or guarantee advertiser service or products. Publisher assumes no liability for products or services advertised in Tennessee Home & Farm.

An official publication of the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation 2008 TFBF

EDITOR Pettus ReadCIRCULATION MANAGER Stacey Warner

MANAGING EDITOR Kim NewsomASSOCIATE EDITOR Sarah B. Gilliam

COPY EDITOR Joyce CaruthersCONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dan Batey, Carol Cowan, Pamela Coyle, Catherine Darnell, Susan Hamilton,

Helen Kelly, Anthony Kimbrough, Kevin Litwin, Jessica MozoDATABASE PROJECT MANAGER Yancey Turturice

DATA MANAGER Ranetta SmithEDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jessy Yancey

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Brian McCordSTAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Adkins, Todd Bennett,

Antony Boshier, Ian Curcio, Kyle Keener, Jesse KnishPHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT Anne Whitlow

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Keith HarrisWEB DESIGN DIRECTOR Shawn Daniel

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Natasha LorensASSISTANT PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Carden

PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hazel RisnerSR. PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGER Tadara Smith

PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS Melissa Hoover, Jill WyattSENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Laura Gallagher,

Kris Sexton, Vikki WilliamsGRAPHIC DESIGN Jessica Bragonier, Erica Hines,

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CHAIRMAN Greg ThurmanPRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Bob SchwartzmanEXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Ray Langen

SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT Jeff HeefnerSR. V.P./SALES Carla H. Thurman

SR. V.P./OPERATIONS Casey E. HesterV.P./SALES Herb HarperV.P./SALES Todd Potter

V.P./VISUAL CONTENT Mark ForesterV.P./TRAVEL PUBLISHING Sybil Stewart

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IT SYSTEMS DIRECTOR Matt LockeIT SERVICE MANAGER Ryan Sweeney

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Peggy BlakeSALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR Rachel Matheis

SALES COORDINATOR Jennifer Alexander

C U S TO M M A G A Z I N E M E D I A

Tennessee Home & Farm is produced for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation by Journal Communications Inc.,

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BOARD OF DIRECTORSPRESIDENT Lacy Upchurch (Columbia)VICE PRESIDENT Danny Rochelle (Nunnelly)

DIRECTORS-AT-LARGEJeff Aiken (Telford)Charles Hancock (Bumpus Mills)Linda Davis (Rutherford)

DISTRICT DIRECTORSMalcolm Burchfiel (Newbern)Bob Willis (Hillsboro)Eric Mayberry (Hurricane Mills)Dan Hancock (Smithville)David Mitchell (Blaine)

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OTHER OFFICERS AND STAFF PERSONNEL

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COMPTROLLER Tim Dodd

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Tennessee

Home & Farm

Celebrating Fall FolkloreAutumn, in my humble opinion, is the best time of the year.

September marks the start of cooler temperatures (hallelujah!), plus much-welcomed fall traditions like spooky stories, brightly colored pumpkins and gorgeous foliage.

In this issue of Tennessee Home & Farm, weve decided to recognize all that makes fall unique. We start with a visit to Mike Clemmers homemade dulcimer shop in Townsend, where he has created his own sound and style of instruments. Then, for a truly spirited story, read about the tiny town of Adams, the home of the infamous Bell Witch. You can tour the Bell Witch Cave; visit the Bell High School thats been transformed into an antique mall, restaurant and museum; and in October, watch a play based on the historical events of Adams.

And finally, whats better than an autumn dinner party? Weve given you the recipes youll need to entertain a group of eight from salad to sweets. Enjoy!

Editors note

2 Home & Farm|Fall 2008 tnfarmbureau.org

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ON THE COVER Photo by Todd BennettDulcimer maker Mike Clemmer

Features 8/Strings Attached

Craftsman makes dulcimers, then plays them

12/Catch the SpiritAdams overflows with history and mystery

16/ Clear and Present DangerContrary to popular belief, wildfires can happen in Tennessee

20/ Service for EightGet your party started with our fall dinner menu

28/ Im Goin to JacksonVisit this West Tennessee town for antiques, unique dining and a vibrant downtown

Departments 4/ From Our Readers

Members tell us what they think

5/ Read All About ItPettus resists change, especially the exercise kind

6/ Short RowsVisit Tennessees only harness races

26/ Country ClassicsGreat-granddaughter discovers a family recipe

27/ Restaurant ReviewRidgewood Barbecue is the real deal

32/ GardeningCreate a beautiful garden with native flora

37/ Family SecurityFinding a passion for insurance

39/ To Good HealthA new way of considering health coverage

40/ Events & FestivalsThings to do, places to see

49/ View From the Back PorchBostonian learns Southern traditions

26

Table of Contents

tnhomeandfarm.com Home & Farm 3

Questions, comments and storyideas can be sent to: Kim Newsom,725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, or e-mail us at [email protected].

TENNESSEE LIVINGHOME & GARDENTRAVELFOOD & RECIPES

onlineTennessee

Catch a Movie

*9 9 XXplay/pause e-mail volumetnhomeandfarm.com

MORE > LISTEN TO THE SOUNDS OF TENNESSEE-MADE DULCIMERS.

Blog Pettus offers his weekly musings on rural life in Tennessee.

MarketplaceSee what other Tennessee Home & Farm readers have for sale in our online classifieds section.

Food & Recipes Comment on your favorite fall recipes. Plus, check out our Restaurant Review archives.

TravelDiscover Tennessees best scenic sites for gorgeous fall foliage.

Home & Garden Find more tips for keeping your home safe from wildfires.

Tennessee LivingIn celebration of harvest season, read through our Farm Facts archives to learn more about Tennessee agriculture.

In This Issue > TENNESSEE LIVING

Photo FinishDont forget to enter your best images in our annual photo contest, which ends Sept. 1. Enter your digital images online or download a printable entry form.

What a Piece of Cake!When you put the cake [Key

Lime Cake recipe, found online at tnhomeandfarm.com and printed in the Summer 2008 issue] back in the bundt pan and poke the holes in it and then glaze, is the glaze on the bottom of the cake when taken back out of the pan and onto a cake plate? Thanks!

SheilaVia tnhomeandfarm.com

Editors note: Thanks for your question, Sheila. This has been one of our most popular recipes ever! It seems odd, but the glaze becomes more of a filling than a true glaze. You pour the glaze while the cake is in the pan, which allows it to seep down into the cake and makes it even more moist. Visit the Recipe Center of tnhomeandfarm.com for more feedback on our Key Lime Cake and reviews by our readers.

Friend of the FarmMy eyes filled with tears as I read

this story [Milking It, Summer 2008] of the Hatcher family fighting back against the tide of asphalt, pavement and bland suburban life. It is my sincere prayer that more Tennesseans with the opportunity will not forgo their connection to the land for a few dollars.

I fear that one day soon we will look up and realize that the Tennessee we all loved will not have been taken from us, but that we will have sold it right out from under our children.

Vaughn CassidyJackson, Tenn.

Fall 2008tnhomeandfarm.com

Lori Cooper-Corenflos

From Our Readers


I ts time for a change! At least that seems to be the verbiage that our candidates for president of these United States want to use every time they find an open microphone and someone to listen to their stump presentations. The word change may be used more often in the recent presidential debates than the words me, myself and I.

Well, I tried change once and really didnt like it. In fact, it was only at the beginning of this year I decided to change for the better, and it like to have killed me. My new life change began with a visit to the doctor and almost ended with another visit to the doctor to fix what I was trying to change.

Back in the winter I had the usual doctor checkup, and his suggestion was to lose a few pounds and get some exercise. It seems I have been spending too much time with the chicken-and-dumplings special at a local restaurant and need to cut back on the sweet tea as well.

I took most of his advice and lost several pounds, but the exercise has been a tough one to accomplish. This walking business is great if you live in town or in a subdivision with lots of blacktop and no traffic. But I live 15 miles from the city on a farm thats fronted by a rural road. There, the traffic has increased so much (mostly from people moving from town to subdivisions so they can enjoy the good life) that it is almost impossible to take a daily walk.

I gave up trying to walk on the roadway and quickly retreated to my driveway. Going in circles didnt work either. I started to develop one leg more than the other from always going to the left.

Then I came up with the idea of buying my own treadmill. Walking when I want to, come rain or shine, in the privacy of my home

seemed to appeal to me. Three miles per hour and a one-half percent incline can work over a period of time.

After checking out several models, I chose the T5000 Walking Like the Wind model. The salesman told me it was made for us athletic types and really easy to assemble. After I paid for it, he brought it out (on a forklift, no less) to my truck. The box holding the treadmill easily weighed over 200 pounds.

I unloaded it in the garage and after a week, I got up enough courage to assemble my T5000. Inside the box were enough parts to build an Edsel automobile and a set of instructions that required aeronautical training. But, I did get it put together and, not to brag, did a pretty good job with only one part left over.

One problem. It was too large and heavy to go through the door from the garage. So, in a cold winter rain I pushed it around the house to the back porch, and with the help of my very strong son, I moved it into the house. During the move I pulled every muscle I had and many I didnt even know I had in the first place. It took me a week to get to the point of being able to walk like the wind on my T5000. Now, Ive had this thing for several months, and I still dont walk like the wind. My stride is more like strolling during a muggy day.

The T5000 even has a place for an MP3 player. I dont have an MP3 player and dont even know what MP3 stands for, but if I ever get one, I have a place to plug it in.

Change is just around the corner for me, and I have had no help doing it from any of the presidential candidates. But, if I see one of them walking like the wind on a T5000, they have my vote.

Walk Like the WindPETTUS RESISTS CHANGE, ESPECIALLY THE EXERCISE KIND

About the AuthorPettus L. Read is

editor of the Tennessee Farm Bureau News and director of communications for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation.

Read his weekly blog of country wisdom and wit in the Tennessee Living section at tnhomeandfarm.com.


Read All About It

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1/ A Texas-Sized TourMark your calendars for the 2009

American Farm Bureau Federation

convention, to be held Jan. 11-13 in

San Antonio, Texas.

In addition to the issues, commodity

and leadership conferences,

convention attendees will enjoy

general sessions with featured

speakers and entertainment, walks

down the world-famous San Antonio

Riverwalk, tours of the King Ranch,

and visits to sugar cane fields in the

Rio Grande Valley.

Tennessee Farm Bureau is currently

planning group travel arrangements.

Convention participants will fly from

either Nashville or Knoxville to the

Rio Grande Valley of South Texas on

Thursday, Jan. 8, then ride in private motor coaches to San Antonio and fly home on Wednesday, Jan. 14.

Contact Bobby Beets at (866) 400-5902 or [email protected] for more details.

2/ One-of-a-Kind Racing Harness racing has a noble history

in Tennessee, but today the sport can be found only at the Lincoln County Fair in Fayetteville.

At the close of the 19th century, Tennessees horses competed from Alabama to Pennsylvania. Closer to home, the events remained a staple of local fairs well into the next century, because unlike thoroughbred races, harness races did not rely on gambling.

Tennessee outlawed wagering in 1906.This is the Lincoln County Fairs

104th year, and its always had harness races.

We are the only one left in the state, says Cindy Harwell, the fairs harness clerk.

The fair runs Sept. 6-13, with up to 13 races on each of the last five days. Go to www.lincolncountyfairinfo.com for a full schedule.

3/ Spaced OutTennessees largest planetarium

opened in June, a $21.7 million project that boosted the Sudekum Planetarium at Nashvilles Adventure Science Center from 40 to 63 feet and opened the universe to a wider audience.


Short Rows

FarmFacts

Yams and Sweet Potatoes: Digging Up the Difference

Did you think yams and sweet potatoes were the same vegetable? Well, youre not alone its a fairly common mistake for Americans to refer to certain varieties of sweet potatoes as yams.

Sure, both are angiosperms, or flowering plants, but the similarities stop there. In fact, the yam shares more traits with a daylily than it does with a sweet potato.

Native to Africa and Asia, yams are classified as monocots plants with only one embryonic seed leaf and are tubers, along with potatoes.

Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, are dicots having two embryonic seed leaves and, like carrots, are storage roots. They fall into two categories: firm and soft. Firm sweet potatoes remain hard when cooked and were produced long before the soft variety, which becomes soft and moist after cooking.

Here are a few more farm facts to digest:

l Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are very rich in Vitamin A (beta carotene), while yams dont contain any.

l Typically only found at international markets, true yams have white flesh and are starchier and drier than sweet potatoes.

l Members of the morning glory family, sweet potatoes originated in Central and South America.

l Around 95 percent of the 600 varieties of yams worldwide are grown in Africa.

l Lincoln County leads the state in sweet potato production with 171 acres of the crop (based on the 2002 U.S. Census of Agriculture).

l The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires labels with the misnomer yam to be accompanied with the term sweet potato.

The new facility seats 164 people, and its Space Chase features interactive attractions that allow visitors to feel as if they are walking in space and simulate weightlessness along a vertical wall. Take a 3D walk through the solar system, too.

For a complete schedule, go to www.sudekumplanetarium.com.

The planetarium is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays.

4/ Gonzo for GourdsStopping by to pay the rent in 2004,

Maxine Osburn noticed gourds hanging from a tree near her landlords home. She and her husband had just relocated to Rickman, Tenn., from upstate New York, and Osburn had never seen gourds before.

The landlords barn was overrun with gourds. Osburn took a few and kept coming back. She cleaned them up, asked her husband to drill holes in them and started with birdhouses.

Now, Osburn has expanded to also create and decorate gourd bowls, hanging gourds, and large one-of-a-kind pieces that look great on a porch or next to a fireplace. She shares her passion by teaching classes at the Upper Cumberland Arts Alliance and the Tennessee Volunteer Gourd Society.

For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call (931) 403-3380.

5/ Last Call for PhotosThe deadline is drawing near for our

13th annual Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation photo contest!

Submit your best photos by Sept. 1 to be considered for our top prize of $100. Categories include Tennessee Landscapes, Tennessee History and Just Kids. Refer to your Summer 2008 edition of Tennessee Home & Farm for a printed entry form or visit tnhomeandfarm.com to enter your images online.

Visit tnhomeandfarm.com and click on Recipes for a delicious Sweet Potato and Pineapple Casserole recipe.

SEE MORE ONLINE


Strings

If you happen to be meandering around the hills and hollers of East Tennessee near Townsend on a peaceful Saturday evening, you might hear the sweet,

whimsical sound of an Appalachian dulcimer floating from the back porch of Mike Clemmers shop. And if you follow the tune, youll find the inviting little log house nestled in the Nawger Nob Craft Settlement along U.S. Highway 321, where Clemmer and his wife, Connie, will invite you to come have a listen.

For the Clemmers, its just another Saturday night on the Pickin Porch at Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop.

Its sort of like being in your grandmas back yard, Mike Clemmer explains. Its a free concert we have every Saturday at 7 p.m. Its all original or real old music, and weve had several national dulcimer champions perform.

Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop is a dream come true for Clemmer, who quit his job in corporate sales in 1996 and began making

and selling handcrafted wooden dulcimers. I had never owned a business, and we

didnt have two nickels to rub together, he recalls. We started the shop with $50 and two credit cards, and its been an amazing ride. God has really taken care of us.

To date, Clemmer has built more than 3,000 dulcimers, and his instruments are owned by people in every state as well as Germany, England, Norway, Italy and France.

Its amazing how people will come to a little town like Townsend, stop by our shop and be so intrigued by the dulcimer, he says.

Most of Clemmers instruments are custom-made, with the customer choosing the wood walnut, cherry, butternut, sassafras or wormy chestnut and other details.

People might like daisies, angels or crosses, and I can cut that hole in it, he says. All my carvings and engravings are done by hand.

One of the only true American

STORY BY JESSICA MOZOPHOTOGRAPHY BY TODD BENNETT

Listen to the sweet sound of Mike Clemmers handmade dulcimers at tnhomeandfarm.com. In our video tour of the Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop in East Tennessee, longtime dulcimer maker Clemmer demonstrates the difference between the various instruments he makes.

SEE VIDEO ONLINE

TALENTED EAST TENNESSEAN MAKES DULCIMERS BY HAND

ATTACHED

Browse a variety of handcrafted dulcimers at the Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop near Townsend. A dulcimer is a wire-stringed, fretted musical instrument with its origin in the Appalachian Mountains.


Tennessee Living

If You GoWood-N-Strings

Dulcimer Shop is open year-round, and Pickin Porch concerts are held from May through October. For more information, visit clemmerdulcimer.com or call (865) 448-6647.

instruments, an Appalachian dulcimer looks like a fiddle and sounds like a Scottish bagpipe. Its roots lie in instruments such as the German scheitholt and the Norwegian langeleik. European immigrants used their memories to re-create it in America, Clemmer explains.

Clemmer built his first dulcimer in 1976 and has been perfecting the craft ever since.

Its very easy to play, because there are no wrong notes, he says. People who are in their 80s and have never touched an instrument will come into our shop, and I can get them playing a song in 10 minutes. Its very gratifying one of those things you learn in five minutes and take the rest of your life to master.

It takes Clemmer anywhere from two to three weeks to build a single dulcimer, and he usually works on eight or nine instruments at a time. They range in price from $350 to $900.

He also developed a one-of-a-kind instrument called a Ban-Jammer, which has also been really well received.

People had been trying to get a banjo sound out of a dulcimer, so I came up with the Ban-Jammer, he says. People love them.

The Ban-Jammer is copyrighted, and now they are owned all over the world. Last year, Clemmer began working on a new instrument called the Tennessee Sweetie a dulcimer small enough to fit in the overhead bins on airplanes.

It allows people who travel a lot to bring a dulcimer with them, he says. Weve sold quite a few in the past year.

All the instruments at Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop are acoustic, and Native American flutes and harps can be found there.

We try to make it the kind of place wed like to go on vacation its got a homey feel, Clemmer explains. We want visitors to be able to pick up a dulcimer and play.

And they do by the thousands.I love people, I love music and I love

woodwork, Clemmer says. Its like God took all the things I love and put them together.

Wood-N-Strings Dulcimer Shop owner Mike Clemmer designs and builds each instrument by hand with extreme attention to detail.


Tennessee Living

Driving down U.S. Highway 41 in northern Middle Tennessee, you might miss the tiny community

of Adams if you blink.But dont let the size of this sleepy

town fool you theres a lot more to it than meets the eye.

For starters, its the home of the infamous Bell Witch, a spirit that tormented the Bell family from 1817 to 1821. The spirit reportedly held particular hatred toward the family patriarch, John Bell, and his youngest daughter, Betsy, and was blamed for Johns death and violent physical attacks on Betsy.

The Bell family log cabin now sits on the property of the historic Bell High School building, which houses the Adams Antique Mall, the Adams Museum and Archives, and the School House Cafeteria & Tea Room.

The Bell High School building and grounds anchor the town of Adams and attract hordes of visitors fascinated by the Bell Witch legend.

People are so interested in it because its a documented event that cant be explained to this day, says Sarah Head, an Adams resident and president of Community SPIRIT Inc., a nonprofit organization that puts on a play about the Bell Witch every

October. This little-bitty community of 500 people is known all over the world. We often get visitors from other states and countries.

WORLDWIDE FAMESo intriguing is the Bell familys

story, it has been recounted in more than 40 published books and was even the basis for a major motion picture, An American Haunting. The film was produced in 2006 and starred Sissy Spacek and Donald Sutherland.

Were not lost we get a lot of publicity, says Tim Henson, an Adams historian and curator of the

STORY BY JESSICA MOZOPHOTOGRAPHY BY TODD BENNETT

the

ADAMS OVERFLOWS WITH HISTORY AND MYSTERY

The Bell Log Cabin, circa 1810, is the last remaining structure from the original John Bell farm. The cabin was originally located on the northwest corner of the farm near the Red River but was moved to the Bell High School Building grounds in 1982.


Travel

Adams Museum and Archives. When An American Haunting came out, we had newspaper and TV folks lined up along the streets. A lot of the local folks dont like the movie because it doesnt follow all their Bell Witch beliefs, but it does tell the tale.

Adams is also home to the Bell Witch Cave, where the spirit is believed to have retired to after John Bells death, and Bellwood Cemetery, where several descendants of the Bell family are buried. But visitors should make the old Bell High School building on Highway 41 their first stop.

This property was the edge of the Bell farm, Henson says. John Bell Jr. had 734 acres when he died in 1862, and this is a little part of that.

Constructed in 1913, Bell High School served northwestern Robertson County until the building burned down in 1919. The current structure was built in 1920 and served as a school until 1975.

Its been an antique mall off and on since 1977, Henson says. Central air and paneling were put in and the ceilings lowered, but many parts of the building are the same.

Covering much of the first and

second floors, the antique mall offers an array of antique furnishings and home dcor as well as jewelry, candles, books and gifts.

Another classroom houses the Adams Museum and Archives, where glass cases hold class photos from Bell High School, original copies of books written about the Bell family and the Bell Witch, photos of Bell descendants and other artifacts that reveal secrets from Adams past.

The Bell cabin behind the school is part of the museum and was last owned by Richard Williams Bell, a son of John Bell who died in 1857. The cabin is believed to have been built by John Bell or his sons.

Richard Williams Bell was the one from whom most of the Bell Witch stories came, Henson says. He was a fairly wealthy man, but he had a turbulent life.

SOUTHERN FOOD FAVORITESThe lower level of the Bell High

School building holds the School House Cafeteria, a meat-and-three open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday. The cafeteria serves Southern favorites such as meatloaf, fried chicken, catfish, vegetables

and out-of-this-world desserts. One of the first-floor classrooms

houses a quaint tearoom that is often used for bridal and baby showers, luncheons and private events.

Four or five Bell High School graduates come eat lunch here just about every day, Henson says.

The Bell High School building and grounds are open year-round, though they attract the most visitors in the fall, when people everywhere are looking for a good spook.

Henson, however, claims hes not big on the scary side of the story.

Im a historian, he says. Ive been researching about the Bells and the spirit since 1995, and Ive met almost every line of the family.

But Henson, who works two days a week at the antique mall, is quick to admit that every so often something happens that makes the hair on the back of his neck stand up.

And that same feeling is what draws people to Adams from the far corners of the globe.

People like something out of the ordinary, and theres so much history intertwined with the Bells story, he says. Even the best of folks have a healthy fear of it.

One of the original first-floor Bell High School classrooms is now a quaint tearoom, often used for luncheons and private events. Right: Antiques and home furnishings for sale are scattered throughout the first and second floors of the historic building.


Travel

History Repeats ItselfYearning to learn more about the Bell Witch? See firsthand how the events unfolded in Adams in October, when

Community SPIRIT Inc. presents its annual play, Spirit.Held in an open-air pavilion behind the Bell High School building,

the play features a cast of approximately 30 amateur and professional actors and recounts the tale of the Bell Witch haunting. Written by David Alford, an Adams native who serves as the artistic director for the Tennessee Repertory Theatre, the play is based on the book Our Family Trouble, the only written eyewitness account of the Bell Witch, written by Richard Williams Bell.We almost always have something unusual happen, says Sarah

Head, president of Community SPIRIT Inc. [In 2007], we had a spectacular lightning display one night. As the stories go, one of the ways the Bell Witch appeared was as a black dog, and just about every year, a black dog comes around during rehearsals or at the performances.The play runs Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights the last two

weekends in October. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students. For more information, call (615) 696-1300 or visit www.bellwitchplay.com.



Home & Garden

&

John Pollock will never forget the fall of 2001. That was when a raging wildfire tore through his mountaintop community near Sevierville, burning

up 1,500 acres and destroying six homes.It was scary. From my deck, I actually

watched the six homes burn, says Pollock, who lives in the Upper Bluff Mountain community adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As I saw an orange glow approaching over a ridge, I began thinking about what I needed to start taking out of my house.

Fortunately for Pollock, firefighters got the fire under control before it reached his home. But because of that experience, he and other homeowners in the Upper Bluff Mountain community would never be the same.

Less than a year after the fire, residents of

DangerClear Present

STORY BY JESSICA MOZOCONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, WILDFIRES CAN

HAPPEN IN TENNESSEE

Tod

d B

enn

ett

Concerned homeowners like Gary Peach of Monterey are taking precautions against Tennessee wildfires that threaten their homes.


Upper Bluff Mountain banded together to become a nationally recognized Firewise community. Theirs is one of four communities in Tennessee that participate in the national Firewise program, which encourages homeowners to take responsibility in protecting their homes from wildfire.

There are an average of 3,000 wildfires in Tennessee each year, and they occur all over the state, says Leon Konz, fire prevention and Firewise coordinator for the Tennessee Division of Forestry. More than half of the homes that have burned could have been protected by applying some basic Firewise principles, such as proper landscaping and choosing fire-resistant home construction materials.

The Firewise movement began in the western United States, where wildfires commonly make news headlines. Tennessee got on board in 2003.

Our wildfires arent as dramatic as out West. We dont usually make

CNN, says Jim Dale, assistant district forester for the Tennessee Division of Forestry. But as more people move into rural areas, weve seen the loss of homes due to wildfires really increase here.

In 2007, for example, the Tennessee Division of Forestry responded to 3,269 wildfires that burned 44,067 acres and resulted in the loss of 34 homes and 195 outbuildings. The total value of lost property exceeded $3 million.

Tennessee wildfires happen for several reasons, including natural causes such as lightning and a combination of dry, hot and windy weather as well as unnatural causes such as arson and irresponsible burning practices. Most of the time, however, homes arent burned down by rampant walls of fire.

Most homes are lost due to smaller things, like embers falling on roofs where there are dead leaves and pine needles, Konz explains.

Flaming embers can be carried

Firewise TipsTennessees peak wildfire season is

October through May. Whether you live next to a wooded area or in a subdivision, all homeowners can take simple steps toward making their houses more Firewise:

l Remove leaves, pine needles and other debris from around the house, roof, gutters, woodpiles and under decks.

l Clear away brush, tall grass and pine trees that are within 30 feet of your home.

l Plant fire-resistant vegetation. Plants that keep their leaves all year such as pines, laurel, holly and juniper are more flammable than plants that drop their leaves in the fall.

l Replace wooden roofing with metal or asphalt shingles.

l Use a concrete-based siding such as brick, stone or stucco instead of vinyl.

l Install double-pane or tempered glass windows.

l Install chimney screens and cover all vents with wire mesh.

l Screen underneath decks and porches.

l Keep firewood well away from your house.

l Keep propane tanks cleaned around and visible.

l Make sure no tree limbs are hanging over your roof, and trim trees so their crowns do not touch one another.

l Identify your home with legible and clearly marked street names and numbers.

l Make sure your driveway is at least 12 feet wide with a vertical clearance of 15 feet and a slope of less than 5 percent to provide access to emergency vehicles.


several miles by the wind, and they easily kindle dry leaves and pine needles on roofs, in rain gutters, and under decks and porches. Tennessees fire-prone oak-hickory forest type puts the state even more at risk for wildfires.

National statistics show that more homes burn east of the Mississippi from forest fires than out West. You just dont hear about it, Dale says. Its very surprising, but thats the way it is.

When fire responders arrive at the scene of a wildfire, they have to make quick decisions about which homes they will try to save. A home built in a thicket at the top of a steep and narrow driveway, for example, would be too dangerous to save if the homeowner had not implemented any Firewise principles.

Lives are first, and property is second. And some homeowners have set themselves up for disaster, says Jonathan Boggs, assistant district forester for the Tennessee Division of

Forestry. If you have done nothing to protect your house, we cant try to save it. Were going on to the next house.

Thats not to say Tennesseans shouldnt live in secluded, natural settings surrounded by scenic forestland. If properly constructed and maintained, even homes in wooded areas can survive wildfires.

But living in fire-prone areas brings with it the responsibility of taking the initiative of creating defensible space around homes and other structures, Dale says. Firewise principles are simple things, not rocket science clean out gutters, replace wooden roofs and dont keep your grill under your deck full of leaves. Weve got homes burning down all over the state because people dont think.

In addition to Seviervilles Upper Bluff Mountain community, Tennessee Firewise communities include Sprucy Ridge in Mountain City, Cumberland Lakes in Monterey and Cumberland Cove in Crossville. Gary Peach is

chairman of Cumberland Coves Wildfire Committee.

Our community realized fire was a concern because were about 1,700 lots, and its all wooded, Peach says. Since we live in the woods with a lot of dead tree limbs and falling leaves, were vulnerable.

In 2003, homeowners in Cumberland Cove contacted the Tennessee Division of Forestry for help becoming a Firewise community.

Theyve been extremely helpful with getting equipment and training for us, Peach says. Now we have a list of 50 community members trained to fight wildfires, and they put out about one fire a year. Our work is really paying off.

Firewise is a free program, and communities retain complete control over what actions are taken.

For more information on how to become a Firewise community, visit www.burnsafetn.org, contact your local Division of Forestry office or contact Konz at (865) 414-5567.

Todd Bennett


Home & Garden

Homes near heavily wooded areas are most susceptible to wildfires, according to the Tennessee Division of Forestry. However, any community can gain from becoming more Firewise, which benefits the homeowners and the firefighters called upon to save your homes.

Whats better on a crisp fall evening than savoring a delicious, home-cooked meal? Not much, except perhaps

sharing that meal with friends or family.Weve made it easy for you by putting

together an entire menu of recipes for eight perfect for an intimate fall dinner party. The best part is that none of these selections is labor-intensive, so youll be free to enjoy your guests.

Start things off with a salad of baby greens dressed in our Balsamic Vinaigrette. A touch of honey gives this dressing the perfect balance of sweetness and zing.

For the entree, weve selected an easy-to-prepare penne pasta and fresh tomato dish topped with succulent sauted shrimp. Its the perfect season to include meaty, red, ripened-on-the-vine tomatoes in your recipes.

And fresh tomatoes are a tasty way to get a dose of those all-important phytonutrients.

Likewise, antioxidant- and vitamin-rich asparagus spears tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper, then oven-roasted and sprinkled with parmesan cheese make an elegant side dish. And talk about hassle free just pop the baking sheet into the oven while youre sauting the shrimp, and presto, dinners ready!

Finally, whats a dinner party without dessert? Our rich and creamy Panna Cotta can be made a day ahead, and, surrounded by a ring of fresh berries, its as pretty as it is delicious.

You can support the farm-to-table movement by picking up the fruits and vegetables for this meal at your local farmers market, then heading to a nearby Tennessee farm for freshwater shrimp.

STORY BY CAROL COWANPHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFFREY S. OTTOFOOD STYLING BY KRISTEN WINSTON CATERING

EightService

ForGET YOUR PARTY STARTED

WITH OUR FALL DINNER MENU

Invite the neighbors over for a flavorful fall dinner party, featuring Shrimp and Fresh Tomato Pasta.


Food

FarmFacts

Finding Fresh ShrimpFreshwater shrimp (also

called prawns) are a healthy alternative to marine shrimp. The prawns are typically grown in a chemical-free environment and are lower in sodium.

Whats more, prawns have a rich, lobster-like flavor that many people prefer. Tennessee shrimp harvest takes place in late September or early October, but some growers sell frozen prawns year-round.

Find a grower near you at www.picktnproducts.org/food/prawns.html.

Balsamic VinaigretteMakes 1 cup

1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

teaspoon kosher salt

teaspoon ground pepper

2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 Tablespoons honey

1 clove garlic, minced2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

In a bowl, whisk vinegar, salt, pepper, mustard, honey and garlic. Slowly add oil while whisking vigorously until the dressing is emulsified.

Shrimp and Fresh Tomato PastaServes 8

2 pounds campari or roma tomatoes

1 Tablespoon red wine vinegar

cup fresh basil, chopped

2 teaspoons kosher salt

teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 Tablespoon garlic, minced

4 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 pound penne pasta

Seed and chop tomatoes. In a large bowl, mix tomatoes with vinegar, basil, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Heat 2 Tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and saut 2 minutes. Add oil and garlic to the tomato mixture.

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 Tablespoons of olive oil. When hot, add shrimp and saut until cooked through, approximately 2 minutes per side.

At the same time, cook pasta according to the directions on the package.

Toss tomato mixture with hot, cooked pasta. Top with shrimp and serve immediately.

For a delicious dinner starter, toss baby greens with chopped cucumber, shredded carrots, sliced grape tomatoes and Kalamata olives, then drizzle the vinaigrette on top.


Food

Panna CottaServes 8

2 teaspoons gelatin

cup milk

2 cups heavy cream

6 Tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoons vanilla

Sliced mixed berries

In a medium bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the milk and let stand for 5 minutes.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream and sugar. Cook, stirring to dissolve the sugar, until small bubbles appear around the outside of the pan. Slowly add the cream mixture to the gelatin mixture. Stir until smooth. Whisk in vanilla.

Spray 8 ramekins with cooking spray. Divide the mixture evenly among ramekins. Cover and refrigerate 6 hours or overnight.

Fill a small bowl with very warm water. Dip the bottom of the ramekins in the water for about 10 seconds. Run a knife around edges of custard to loosen. Invert onto dessert plates. Spoon berries around the panna cotta and serve immediately.

Roasted AsparagusServes 8

2 pounds fresh, medium-size asparagus

cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated

Pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut off tough ends of asparagus spears. Put

asparagus in a single layer on a large baking sheet, and toss with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for approximately 15 minutes, until tender but still slightly crisp.

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and return to oven until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.

Want to master our Panna Cotta recipe? Kristen shows us her secrets in a new episode of In the Kitchen with Sybil and Kristen. Visit tnhomeandfarm.com and click on Videos.


Want More?Each issue of

Tennessee Home & Farm highlights a selected recipe from Country Classics Volume II. Copies of the cookbook are available for $17 each, plus shipping and handling, from county Farm Bureau offices, or by calling the Tennessee Farm Bureau home office at (931) 388-7872, ext. 2217.

The very best recipe cards in the world are the ones with splatters of batter, coffee cup rings and frayed edges. Those are the family legacies passed down from generation to generation, treasured because a beloved relative must have handled them many times through the years.

Linda Pyle of Jamestown, Tenn., has such a recipe for Black Walnut Cream Cake. She came across the handwritten piece of paper while separating her late grandmothers things. Neither Pyle nor her mother could remember having had that cake, so the family assumed it came from her great-great-grandmother.

I could read the recipe, but it was really dingy, Pyle says. It has circles on it like it had something sitting on it. One of the women in the family must have made it a lot.

Chances are, people are still making the

cake, since it was selected for Country Classics II, published by the Tennessee Farm Bureau Women and now in its second printing.

Black walnuts are a favorite of Pyles, and shes glad to now have a family recipe that incorporates them.

The first time I thought it could be better, she says of her experiment with the recipe. I made it the second time, and it was really good. Everybody else liked it too.

Catherine Darnell

Black Walnut Cream Cake

Serves 12

3 large eggs

2 cups sugar

2 cups self-rising flour

1 cup chopped black walnuts

1 cups heavy cream

cup whole milk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray two 9-inch pans with nonstick spray and dust with flour. In large bowl, beat eggs until light and fluffy. Add sugar; beat well. In separate bowl, combine flour and nuts. In alternating increments, add flour mixture, milk and cream to egg mixture, beating after each addition. Add vanilla and beat well. Spread in pans. Bake 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes; remove from pan. Frost when cooled.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Combine one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup softened butter. Beat until smooth. Beat in 3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until smooth. Add sugar to obtain desired amount.

The Keeping KindLINDA PYLE RE-CREATES A RECIPE PASSED DOWN BY HER GREAT-GREAT-GRANDMOTHER

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Country Classics

The Dish on Ridgewood Barbecue

Throughout the year, our team travels the state in search of good food and friendly service. In each issue, we feature one of Tennessees best eateries, and in our opinion, the best dishes to try.

Ridgewood Barbecue is located at 900 Elizabethtown Highway, Bluff City, TN 37618. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. To contact the Proffitts, call (423) 538-7543.

Visit the Food section of tnhomeandfarm.com for more Tennessee restaurants worth visiting.

K eep in mind three things about Ridgewood Barbecue in Bluff City: Its not easy to find. Dont ask for the recipe because only two people in the world know it, and its not written down. And most importantly, its all about the ham.

Ridgewoods signature barbecue dish is pit-cooked with a heavy-smoked taste, then sliced thin and piled on platters or massive sandwiches with a tangy sauce. Its a method Larry Proffitts father, Jim, developed back in the 1940s.

The key, Proffitt says, is starting with a high-quality product.

Any country boy knows you put pork shoulders in sausage, Proffitt says. We use hams. They make for a different type of barbecue, with more body. Its not like you are eating something mushy.

The smoke pits are outside, which Proffitt says is a requirement. Ridgewood now has four pits and smokes at least 150 10- to 13-pound deboned hams each week, double that in the summer.

Obviously, the formula works, so the family sees no reason to change it, to the delight of customers and food critics alike.

Back in 1948, Grace and Jim Proffitt picked a spot on Old Highway 19E to start their restaurant, and it still serves the venture well, despite its small-town surroundings. Bluff City is home to less than 2,000 residents, but foodies come from miles around to enjoy one-of-a-kind barbecue from a family that cares about maintaining the restaurants original charm and draw.

It is just a little joint, Proffitt says. You have to want to come to find us.

Proffitt started working there when he was a boy, often picking up the manual-labor tasks.

When someone didnt show up on Saturday, guess who washed the dishes and bused the tables? he jokes. Hes now passed along the family tradition to his daughter, Lisa Peters, who runs the restaurant. But dont expect anyone outside the family to take over.

The recipe has more than 24 ingredients, and after Proffitts brother died in 2003, it was time to pass on the family legacy to the next generation. He wrote out the recipe, made Lisa study it and practice reciting it aloud until she had it down, and then burned the paper.

Thats what you call a secret family recipe. Pamela Coyle

Photos by Todd Bennett

All About the BarbecueBLUFF CITY RESTAURANT DRAWS LOYAL CUSTOMERS


Restaurant Review

Im Goin to

VISIT THIS WEST TENNESSEE TOWN FOR ANTIQUES, UNIQUE DINING AND A VIBRANT DOWNTOWN

Jackson

4

Find good fishing on Lake Graham.


Travel

It may not be one of Tennessees biggest cities, but Jackson can rival them by keeping visitors busy for days with antique shops, historic buildings,

Civil War battlefields, tasty restaurants, and a downtown that grows more vibrant every year.

1/HISTORIC TIESThe seat of Madison County is a

destination rich with modern options and Tennessee history.

Jackson was home to railroad legend Casey Jones, made famous for sacrificing his own life to save his passengers in a 1900 wreck and memorialized in the well-known ballad. The Casey Jones Village, one of Tennessees top 10 tourist attractions, pays homage to the engineer with a life-size replica of his locomotive, an old general store and museum exhibits that celebrate railroads Steam Age. While youre there, be sure to visit Brooks Shaws Old Country Store, decorated with more than 15,000 antiques, and sample some ice cream in the 1890s parlor and fudge shop or take in one of the live rockabilly music events.

The South Royal Depot in downtown Jackson also marks the importance of train travel to the citys development. The restored depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Jacksons importance as a railroad hub made it a target during the Civil War; Britton Lane Battlefield in nearby Denmark contains several monuments and a mass gravesite for fallen Confederate soldiers.

Jacksons importance, though, far predates the Civil War and the development of rail transportation. Pinson Mounds Archaeological State Park contains at least 15 earthen mounds and represents the largest Middle Woodland period development in the Southeast. It is believed the site was occupied as early as 5000 B.C., with the mounds and other earthworks constructed between 500 B.C. and 500 A.D.

STORY BY PAMELA COYLE

Browse eight different specialty shops at the Shops of the Painted Lady in downtown Jackson, or climb aboard the 130-ton replica of Engine No. 382 at Casey Jones Village.

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Archaeofest each September celebrates Native American cultures and features craft demonstrations.

2/DYNAMIC DOWNTOWNMore modern attractions are not

lacking, either. Downtown Jackson has developed a vibrant arts and entertainment district. Fabulous Friday unfolds the last Friday of every month, with art galleries open from 7 to 9 p.m. and specials at participating shops, which stay open late, and restaurants. Lettin Loose on Lafayette, an expanded version with live music, takes place this year on Friday, Aug. 29.

The city is host to a Blues Festival every June and a Rock-A-Billy Music Festival every August the International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame on North Church Street draws tourists from around the world.

Antique lovers have scores of targets, including Yesterdays Antiques and other shops, both in Jackson and nearby smaller towns. The Shops of the Painted Lady at

415 Lafayette Street houses eight different specialty stores under one Victorian roof, featuring oils, soaps, candles, culinary supplies, home accessories, furniture, antique silver, collectible toys and more.

3/GOOD EATSFor dining, Jackson offers

everything from regional barbecue to traditional Italian and modern Japanese. Known for its amazing cheesecakes, Baudos has been a staple, serving classic Italian dishes for three decades.

Suedes specializes in seafood. Get your sushi fix at Sakura Japanese Restaurant on the Highway 45 bypass or visit Big Mamas Kitchen on West Main for some home cooking during breakfast or lunch.

4/OUTSIDE FUNLake Graham has boat rentals,

a picnic area, a pier and good fishing on a 575-acre man-made lake operated by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

The Jackson Greenbelt Development, 4,000 acres of pure nature, surrounds the city on three sides and includes Cypress Grove Nature Park, where 7,000 feet of boardwalk wind through a pristine cypress forest.

Man-made water features are the highlight on Sept. 27, for the fourth annual Moonlight Pond Tour that takes visitors through gardens across Jackson and raises money for the Jackson-Madison County Humane Society.

If Jackson proper cant hold your attention, Madison County itself has more options, too. SkyFest, a big airshow, takes place this year on Oct. 4-5. Shiloh National Military Park on Highway 22 between Tennessee 57 and U.S. 64 commemorates the first big western battle of the Civil War, and Grand Junction is home to the National Bird Dog Museum.

For more Jackson attractions, visit www.jacksontncvb.com.

Pinson Mounds, a National Historic Landmark, is one of only two archaeological parks in Tennessee. Right: Sakura Japanese Restaurant brought Asian fare to Jackson.

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Staff Photos


Travel

In The ZoneCREATE A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN WITH TENNESSEES NATIVE FLORA


Gardening

I love plants! Big plants, little plants, flowering plants, foliage plants, really almost every type of plant. But I pay special attention to one particular

group the native plants of the eastern United States (which includes Tennessee). These plants have naturally evolved over time for this region and, as a result, have developed a strong connection to the land, each other and the wildlife.

BIOLOGICALLY ADAPTEDUsing native plants creates a landscape

that is biologically adapted to our climate, soils, wildlife and plant communities. Choosing native varieties over hybrid, non-native plants known as exotic plants, can reduce the threat of releasing invasive plants into the landscape that can upset the balance of our natural flora and fauna.

Let me give you some examples. Both kudzu and bush honeysuckle are exotic plants that were introduced into Tennessee landscapes, then became invasive species. As a result, neither kudzu nor bush honeysuckle is now produced for its original intended use.

ONE FOR EVERY NICHEA native plant grows in every landscape

niche. For vines in our zone, I love passionflower with its summer-long blooms and Carolina jasmine for its bright yellow spring flowers. In terms of native shrubs, plenty of the available varieties have landscape appeal.

Ninebark is a deciduous shrub with dark burgundy-bronze foliage and white spring flowers. I have three different selections in my garden: Coppertina, Diablo and Summer Wine. Sweetshrub has fragrant, burgundy spring flowers and glossy foliage. Hartlage Wine is a choice selection for its extremely large burgundy flowers. Wild hydrangea Annabelle is another of my favorites with its large white flowers blooming prolifically in summer. Winterberry holly is a deciduous shrub with showy red berries perfect for the winter garden. I have several scattered throughout my landscape.

NATIVE TREESAn abundance of trees are native to

our region as well. For large trees, choose red maple and sugar maple; white oak, red oak, Southern red oak, and pin oak; sweet gum; tulip poplar; black gum; river birch; and yellowwood.

If you desire smaller landscape trees, check out a redbud. Choice cultivars include burgundy-leaved and gold-leaved selections. Other smaller trees of interest might be fringe tree, serviceberry, dogwood, sourwood and Carolina silver bell.

Youll also find plenty of native perennials, herbs, grasses and wildflowers to serve as seasonal herbaceous plants for your garden.

NATIVE PLANT RESOURCESWe are blessed to have a variety of native

plant resources in Tennessee. To assist you in selecting native plants for your landscape and the invasive exotic plants for which they can be substituted, the Tennessee Exotic Pest Plant Council (TN-EPPC) has developed guides for gardeners and landscapers.

To download or order these guides, visit the TN-EPPC Web site at www.tneppc.org.

In addition to TN-EPPC, I recommend Margie Hunters book Gardening With the Native Plants of Tennessee. The book gives detailed accounts of 450 species of wildflowers, ferns, grasses, vines, shrubs and trees native to Tennessee. You can order a signed copy from Margies Web site at www.gardeningwithnativeplants.com.

Finally, if an outing appeals to you, check out the Tennessee Native Plant Society at www.tnps.org. Members meet frequently at various locations all over the state for field trips led by local amateurs and professionals who know the plants in a given area.

One last note: Id urge you to support nurseries that sell nursery-propagated native plants rather than plants taken from the wild. Collecting plants from the wild truly endangers the sustainability of native populations. Despite attempts to protect their natural populations, some native plants ginseng, for example are in drastic decline. Reputable nurseries will label their stock.

About the AuthorDr. Susan Hamilton is

an associate professor in the University of Tennessee Department of Plant Sciences and director of the UT Gardens. The gardens are a project of the Tennessee Agricultural Experiment Station, with locations in Knoxville and Jackson: http://utgardens.tennessee.edu.

For a list of Tennessee nurseries that specialize in native plants, visit tnhomeandfarm.com and click on Home & Garden.

SEE MORE ONLINE

Choose Tennessee-native plants like passionflower, which blooms all summer long, for your garden.


For the latest Value Plus information and more discounts for Tennessee Farm Bureau members, call the hotline at (877) 363-9100, or e-mail us at [email protected]. Visit our Web site at www.tnfarmbureau.org, and click on the Value Plus quick link.

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About the AuthorDan Batey is

communications specialist for Tennessee Farm Bureau Insurance and can be reached at [email protected].

Y ou may think Im new to this magazine, but youve read my scribblings before.About eight years ago, the folks at the Tennessee Farm Bureau wanted to publish a magazine for their members. I had been producing the Tennessee Farm Bureau News since 1996, so I was a logical choice to tackle the job.

I packed up my computer, holed up in a rented cabin near Sevierville and developed the initial concept of Tennessee Home & Farm. Several days later I came down from the mountain with a prototype, and we went to work.

For the first two years of the magazines existence, my tiny little company an office assistant, a couple of freelancers and me labored mightily to produce the magazine. To meet deadlines, I worked around the clock, eating at my desk and sleeping on a cot in the office.

It was about like a puppy pulling a freight train. Finally, mercifully, we were able to attract the attention of Journal Communications, a company that is actually geared up to produce custom magazines. Tennessee Home & Farm went on to win awards, and I got off the office cot and went on home.

That lasted until about a year ago, when Farm Bureau Insurance decided to set up a corporate communications department. This time, a little older and a little wiser, I put on

my necktie and came on board full time.Things started off sort of slow. The necktie

part I could handle, but I had spent most of my adult life as a free-range entrepreneur and was straining to sit still through all the meetings. It felt a little strange, too, to hear people talk about a passion for insurance. You dont often hear those two words together.

The turning point came just before dawn last February as I woke up with a wadded-up sportcoat under my head. No, it wasnt my old office cot. I was in a Farm Bureau Insurance car next to a convenience store at Parkers Crossroads. My old news-gathering instincts had kicked in, and I had bolted off to Jackson to take photos of tornado damage.

For days our company mobilized to assess damages and pay claims. I saw our people come together as a team, calmly and professionally taking care of victims. I saw our office people hug customers who were more than just customers they were friends, too.

And there it was. Passion for insurance. Passion for helping people put their lives back together. Passion for serving our customers.

It seems that, in my life at least, any job worth doing calls for sleeping in odd places whether its an office cot or the drivers seat of a gray Impala.

A Passion for InsuranceNEW COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST RELIES ON JOURNALISM BACKGROUND TO LEARN THE ROPES


Family Security

About the AuthorAnthony Kimbrough

is vice president of marketing and government relations for TRH Health Plans. His e-mail is [email protected].

No, Maam, if you dont mind, Ill just slide right over here and lie down. In the long run, that will be much better for the both of us. And one more thing if we could just get this right the first time, that would be really nice. Im not really big on second chances.

This dialogue is the conversational start to three or four days of every year for me. Those are the days I awake early, skip breakfast, head to the outpatient facility and greet a kind nurse poised with needle in hand.

No problem for her to smile; shes doing the sticking. Im the one getting stuck, giving up blood so the docs will know my cholesterol medications are still doing their thing. I acknowledge Im a somewhat grown man, but this blood work is about the very least favorite thing I do. I simply do not handle it well.

But I acknowledge it and prepare

On Pins and NeedlesHANDLING HEALTH COVERAGE CAN BE AS INTIMIDATING AS HAVING BLOOD DRAWN

accordingly. Thats why theres no need for me to sit down in that chair, in the middle of everyone, for the nurse to draw that small vial of blood. Because if it doesnt get done right the first time, Im probably going to take a really hard rest, really quick, and so I might as well already be on the bed. I know this because Ive awakened too many times from such naps to see all kind of folks in white clothes scurrying around my limp and colorless body.

My wife, who is a registered nurse (ironic, huh?), tells me its all mental. That reminder just embitters me toward you normal people who walk in, stare as the needle pierces the vein, watch the blood stream out, tell the nurse to have a great day and skip merrily out the door.

Thats way too easy, too automatic about as automatic as it used to be to have my lab work paid through employer-sponsored, health-care coverage.

But today, fewer companies are offering health coverage to employees and, of those that do, many are asking employees to bear a greater share of the cost. Also, family coverage through many employer-sponsored plans is becoming less available and more costly.

If thats the case for you, there may be an option. Thousands of Farm Bureau members have individual and family health coverage through TRH Health Plans, a 60-year-strong Tennessee company and Farm Bureau partner.

Folks turn to us in many different situations, but were finding many look to us when their employer-provided coverage becomes too expensive. In many instances, were able to provide family coverage for the rest of the family, or individual policies for children.

Childrens policies are generally the least expensive of all health coverage. And its important to remember that once a childrens policy is issued with TRH, that child can remain covered as long as premiums are paid. The child can simply transfer to an individual adult policy once they become of age without any further medical review, even if they develop an illness or medical condition while enrolled as a child.

It may not be absolutely automatic, but odds are that TRH can save you money on your health-care plan. Its worth a visit or call to your local Farm Bureau office, where (I promise) no needles will be required.


To Good Health

This listing includes events of statewide interest scheduled in September, October and November as provided by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

Dates were accurate at press time but are subject to change; please call the contact listed before traveling long distances to attend.

To include your local events in our listing, please call the Tennessee Department of Tourism at (615) 741-7994. Events are included as space permits. Additional information on Tennessee events is also available online through the departments Web site, www.tnvacation.com.

SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 6

GRINDERS SWITCH MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVALHistoric Downtown Public Square, CentervilleFeatures the Grinders Switch Radio Hour, arts and crafts, food, exhibits and more. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 729-5774, www.hickmanco.org

SEPTEMBER 7-9

INTERNATIONAL GOAT DAYSUSA Stadium, MillingtonRustic family festival spotlighting goats, games and crafts. CONTACT: (901) 872-4559, www.internationalgoatdays.com

SEPTEMBER 12-13

39th ANNUAL DIANA SINGINGPulaskiThis event began in 1969, and now over 5,000 visitors attend to listen to beautiful

a cappella singing. CONTACT: Jack Parks, (931) 363-3204, www.dianasinging.com

SEPTEMBER 12-13

DOODLE SOUP DAYSBradfordCelebrating the town of Bradford famous for its doodle soup. Includes chicken and doodle soup, food, music, tractor show, quilt show, dog show, and more. CONTACT: Betty Jo Taylor, (731) 742-3494

SEPTEMBER 12-13

FAYETTE COUNTY COTTON FESTIVALCourthouse Square, SomervilleThis celebration features a beauty pageant, talent show, quilt exhibit, 5K run, auction and much more. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (901) 465-8690, www.fayettecountychamber.net

SEPTEMBER 13

70th ANNUAL PINE ORCHARD COMMUNITY FAIRPine OrchardIncludes food, music and crafts. CONTACT: Gigi Schooler, (423) 346-5740, www.morgancountychamber.com

Tennessee Events & Festivals

Enjoy the haunting season at various Halloween-themed festivals across the state this October.


Events & Festivals

SEPTEMBER 13

NATIONAL ROLLEY HOLE MARBLES CHAMPIONSHIP & FESTIVALStanding Stone State Park, HilhamIncludes games for children, marble making, swap meet, tournament play, demonstrations, music and food. CONTACT: Shawn Hughes, (931) 823-6347, www.overtonco.com

SEPTEMBER 13

WINGS OF FREEDOM FISH FRYSmyrnaDance to the music of the Boomers, view corporate flight craft, enjoy the music of the Francis Family and eat plenty of good food. CONTACT: (615) 459-2651, www.rotaryofsmyrna.org

SEPTEMBER 13

HOCKADAY BROOMCORN FESTIVALSelmer City Park, SelmerFolk art festival with more than 30 demonstrating folk artists including quilters, potters, broom makers, basket makers, weavers, glass artists, furniture makers and carvers food, live music and more. CONTACT: (731) 645-6360, www.tast.tn.org

SEPTEMBER 13

COOPER-YOUNG FESTIVALCooper-Young Historic District, MemphisCome enjoy an appealing mix of art, music and crafts presented by over 370 artisans from around the country. This festival is a true celebration of the arts, people, culture and heritage of Memphis. CONTACT: (901) 276-7222, www.cooperyoungfestival.com

SEPTEMBER 13

CHARLOTTE FESTIVALHistoric Courthouse Square, CharlotteA family-oriented festival with music, rides and more. CONTACT: City of Charlotte, (615) 789-4184

SEPTEMBER 19-20

FALL BLUEGRASS FESTIVALPikevilleA fun-filled festival that draws families and friends from all over. Enjoy the magnificent scenic views of the valley while enjoying the fun music and food! Hands will be clapping and feet will be tapping. CONTACT: Louis Edmons, (423) 533-2455

SEPTEMBER 19-21

AFRICAN STREET FESTIVALTennessee State University, NashvilleIncludes music, poetry, fashion, childrens activities, art exhibits, food, African dancers, drummers, storytelling and more. CONTACT: AACA, (615) 251-0007, www.aacanashville.org

SEPTEMBER 19-21

BRISTOL RHYTHM & ROOTS REUNIONDowntown Historic State Street, BristolBrings quality national, regional, and local music and entertainment to Bristol, the Birthplace of Country Music, in celebration of its musical heritage and culture. CONTACT: Leah Ross, (423) 573-4898, www.bristolrhythm.com

SEPTEMBER 20

BLUEGRASS & SORGHUM MAKING FESTIVALTipton-Haynes State Historic Site, Johnson CityFeatures sorghum making, dinner cooked over an open fire and bluegrass music. CONTACT: Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, (423) 926-3631, www.tipton-haynes.org

SEPTEMBER 20

NEWBERN DEPOT DAYSNewbern DepotMany activities including food, entertainment, music and fun. CONTACT: Olen Parker, (731) 627-0802

SEPTEMBER 26-27

SOUTHERN FRIED FALL FESTIVALCourthouse Square, ColumbiaEnjoy great bands, delicious food, antique shopping, childrens activities and more. CONTACT: Rick Alexander, (931) 381-0954, www.southernfriedfest.com

SEPTEMBER 26-27

FALL HERITAGE FESTIVAL & OLD TIMERS DAYTownsend Visitor Center, TownsendA celebration of Smoky Mountain music, arts, crafts, cultural traditions and Appalachian skills. Events include antique tractor and engine show, bluegrass and old-time music, craft booths, delicious food, and more. CONTACT: Convention & Visitors Bureau, (800) 525-6834, www.smokymountains.org/calendar/index.html

SEPTEMBER 26-28

30th ANNUAL TACA FALL CRAFT FAIRCentennial Park, NashvilleCelebrating its 30th anniversary in 2008, this juried crafts festival features more than 170 contemporary and traditional artists, continuous demonstrations, live music, and food. CONTACT: Tennessee Association of Craft Artists, (615) 385-1904, www.tennesseecrafts.org

SEPTEMBER 26-28

GENERAL DANIEL SMITH DAYSRock Castle, HendersonvilleA 1779-1820 re-enactment and community fair commemorating the lives of Tennessee founding families. Includes traders, craft demonstrations, entertainers and tours of Rock Castle. CONTACT: (615) 824-0502, www.sumnercvb.com

SEPTEMBER 27

CULTURE FESTCoolidge Park, ChattanoogaCelebrates cultural, ethnic and national diversity through the arts. Enjoy talented performances, childrens activities, food and art. CONTACT: Arts & Education Council, (800) 267-4232, www.artsedcouncil.org

SEPTEMBER 27

OLDE TIME FIDDLERS & BLUEGRASS FESTIVALNetherland Inn, KingsportFiddling demonstrations; prizes awarded. CONTACT: P.T. Nottingham, (423) 246-8528, www.netherlandinn.com


SEPTEMBER 27

HOLA! KNOXVILLE HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVALMarket Square District, KnoxvilleCelebrating the diverse Hispanic cultures in East Tennessee. This festival offers food from over 12 different Latin American countries, salsa bands, crafts and cultural displays. CONTACT: (423) 588-1923 ext. 251, www.holahoralatina.com

SEPTEMBER 27

HOMESTEAD APPLE FESTIVALHomestead Tower and Museum, CrossvilleCrafts, food, fresh apples, live music, quilt show and antique tractor show. CONTACT: Homestead Tower Association, (931) 484-7320, www.crossville-chamber.com

SEPTEMBER 27

HERITAGE DAYDowntown Historic Square, CovingtonReminisce about the past with folk art demonstrations, arts and crafts, food, music, childrens activities, and more. CONTACT: (901) 476-9727, www.covington-tiptoncochamber.com

SEPTEMBER 27

APPLE BUTTER FESTIVALWhite BluffYoull experience the old-fashioned way to churn butter and make apple butter jelly. Enjoy homemade candy apples, quilters, blacksmiths, spinning, bluegrass music and more. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (877) 718-4967, www.dicksoncountychamber.com

SEPTEMBER 27

3rd ANNUAL CRUZIN THE GROVE FESTIVALWilliamson County Community Center, College GroveA car show, festival of crafts and food, games for the kids, and music. It is an event that the whole family will enjoy. Free admission. CONTACT: Lions Club of College Grove, (615) 368-3456

SEPTEMBER 27-28

27th ANNUAL MT. JULIET POW WOWCharlie Daniels Park, Mt. JulietThis traditional powwow is a time of gathering and celebration with friends and family. All nations come together for traditional dancing, music, Native American arts and crafts, and food. CONTACT: Cindy Yahola, (615) 443-1537

SEPTEMBER 27-28

FALL FOLK ARTS FESTIVALExchange Place, KingsportThis harvest celebration takes place on a 19th-century farmstead. Includes crafts, food, music, tours and fun for the entire family. CONTACT: Exchange Place, (423) 288-6071, www.exchangeplace.info

OCTOBEROCTOBER 3

SECRET CITY HEAD RACEMelton Hill Rowing Course, Oak RidgeThis rowing competition is hosted by the Oak Ridge Rowing Association. CONTACT: Oak Ridge Convention & Visitors Bureau, (800) 887-3429, www.orra.org

OCTOBER 3-4

3rd ANNUAL HICKMAN COUNTY QUILT SHOWCentervilleAn annual show that displays quilts made by current and former Hickman County residents. More than 200 quilts were displayed last year, and this years theme is Celebrating the Comforts of Home. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 729-5774, www.musiccitybackyard.com

OCTOBER 3-4

UNICOI COUNTY APPLE FESTIVALDowntown ErwinA celebration of the unique heritage, foods, crafts and culture of the southern Appalachian region. Includes arts and crafts, musical entertainment, apple contests, beauty pageant, and more. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (423) 743-3000, www.unicoicounty.org

OCTOBER 3-5

REELFOOT ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVALTiptonvilleFeatures over 300 exhibitors including artists, potters, carvers, jewelry makers, music, delicious barbecue, fried pies, ice cream and more. CONTACT: Anna Crocker, (731) 885-7295, www.reelfootartsandcrafts.com

OCTOBER 3-5

36th ANNUAL NATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL

JonesboroughIncludes a variety of accomplished artists whose stories take listeners back to their childhood, across cultures and into the world of imagination. CONTACT: International Storytelling Center, (800) 952-8392, www.storytellingcenter.net

OCTOBER 4

HARVEST CELEBRATIONRitter Farms, RutledgeEnjoy produce fresh from the farm including Grainger County tomatoes, apples, pumpkins and cushaw, mums, straw, fodder, Grainger County sweet onions and potatoes. Gospel entertainment with Primitive Quartet, The Singing Cook, The Good Shepherd Quartet, The Singing Carters, Walk Softly, Tony McGee and New Covenant. CONTACT: Nancy Ritter, (865) 767-2575, www.ritterfarms.com

OCTOBER 4

CEMETERY CANDLELIGHT TOURGallatin City CemeteryActors in period clothing tell the stories of Sumner Countys most colorful characters who are buried in the cemetery. CONTACT: (615) 451-3738, www.sumnercvb.com

OCTOBER 4-5

17th ANNUAL GREAT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL & WEIGH-OFFAllardtIncludes tractor show, quilt show, live entertainment, crafts, fireworks, food, talent show, weigh-off of giant pumpkins for world-record consideration, and more. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 879-9948, www.nicesingles.com/festival/fest.html

OCTOBER 4-5

HISTORIC MANSKERS STATION FALL ENCAMPMENTGoodlettsvilleObserve the day-to-day activities necessary for survival in a 1780 frontier setting. Participants demonstrate crafts and trades from the time period. CONTACT: (615) 859-3678, www.sumnercvb.com

OCTOBER 4-5

NATCHEZ TRACE POWWOWHistoric Leipers Fork Village, FranklinNative Americans will unite to perform time-honored dances and share their traditions. Learn through legend keepers and demonstrators how they once lived; taste the food and be a part of this unique cultural experience. CONTACT: April Cantrell, (615) 591-1682, www.natcheztracepowwow.com

Events & Festivals


OCTOBER 10-11

GOATS, MUSIC & MORE FESTIVALRock Creek Park, LewisburgGoat shows, arts and crafts, food, barbecue cook-off, musical entertainment, childrens games, and more. CONTACT: Lisa Jackson, (931) 359-1544, www.goatsmusicandmore.com

OCTOBER 10-12

FOOTHILLS FALL FESTIVALMaryvilleRenowned for its world-class entertainment, this juried arts and crafts show features more than 85 artists and craftspeople, a 16-acre Childrens Adventure Land, and fun for the whole family. CONTACT: Jane Groff, (865) 273-3445, www.foothillsfallfestival.com

OCTOBER 10-12

HERITAGE DAYS 2008RogersvilleFeatures re-enactors from the eras of the American Revolution, the Civil War and World War II. The festival showcases traditional music, storytellers, dancers, special events for the children, demonstrations of pioneer skills, food and more. CONTACT: Patricia Humbert, (423) 272-1961, www.rogersvilleheritage.org

OCTOBER 10-11

TENNESSEE STATE BAR-B-Q & FALL FESTIVALLenoir City Park, Lenoir CityThis national sanctioned barbecue cook-off produces a five-state champion. The Kids Q contest allows barbecue aficionados-in-training to show their stuff with chicken and burgers. Features live music, crafts and a juried art show. CONTACT: Bryant Howard, (865) 389-6106, www.tennesseestatebbq.com


OCTOBER 11

PUMPKINTOWNDowntown AthensA tiny McMinn County settlement called Pumpkintown disappeared many years ago, and few records remain to tell her story. But for one golden afternoon, the little town is remembered. Join us in celebration of east Tennessees rich cultural traditions as we bring history to life on the streets of Athens. CONTACT: Elaine Newman, (423) 746-9041, www.athensdba.org/pumpkintown

OCTOBER 11

HARVEST MOON FESTIVALMunicipal Park, White HouseBluegrass competition with fiddle, banjo, guitar and mandolin. Includes arts and crafts, food and more. CONTACT: (615) 672-2265, www.sumnercvb.com

OCTOBER 11

INTERNATIONAL INVENTORS DAYPleasant ViewEnjoy exhibits of innovative products, craft demonstrations related to inventiveness and creativity that are sure to appeal to all ages. There will also be an exhibit celebrating the greatest inventor of all! CONTACT: James Stevens, (615) 681-6462, www.iamt.us

OCTOBER 11

BISCUITS AND BLUEGRASS FALL FESTIVALLoveless Cafe, NashvilleCelebrates community and tradition with

live music, food and activities for the entire family. CONTACT: (615) 646-9700, www.lovelesscafe.com

OCTOBER 11-12

AUTUMN GOLD FESTIVALCoker Creek Village, Coker CreekFeatures music, food, crafts, gold panning and more. CONTACT: Coker Creek Economic Development Group, (423) 261-2310, www.monroecounty.com

OCTOBER 16-18

HAUNTED WOODSWilliamson County Lions Park, College GroveA Halloween event the whole family can enjoy. A wagon hayride for the little ones and a guided haunted trail through the woods for the thrill-seeking ones. Warm drinks and Halloween treats will be provided by local businesses. Receive $1 off admission when you bring a donated canned good or a recyclable pair of eyeglasses. CONTACT: Lions Club of College Grove, (615) 368-3456

OCTOBER 18

10th ANNUAL FALL FOLKLORE JAMBOREEWest Tennessee Agricultural Museum, MilanMore than 100 traditional folk artists, musicians and exhibitors demonstrate skills in traditional crafts. Musical entertainment performed by bluegrass and gospel groups. CONTACT: Debra Campbell, (731) 686-7362

OCTOBER 16-18

COTTON FESTThe Veterans Museum, HallsCotton Fest is a return to life in the rural area during the 1940s. Enjoy the cotton-picking contest, karaoke contest, Southern food, games and rides for children, childrens farm parade, and antique tractor show. CONTACT: Pat Higdon, (731) 836-7400, www.dyaab.us

OCTOBER 18

KETNERS MILL COUNTRY ARTS FAIRHistoric Ketners Mill, WhitwellCountry arts fair with wagon rides, canoe rides, demonstrations, petting zoo and entertainment. Folk art, handmade jewelry, hand-woven baskets, metal art and wood furniture. CONTACT: Holly Shull, (423) 267-5702, www.ketnersmill.org

OCTOBER 18

SERGEANT ALVIN C. YORK DAYSgt. Alvin C. York Homestead, Pall MallThis event honors the 90th anniversary of the Battle of the Argonne Forest in World War I. Features a re-enactment of the battle, an arts and crafts fair, interpretive tours of Sgt. Yorks homestead and gristmill, live music, and food. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 879-9948, www.sgtyork.org

OCTOBER 18

PUMPKIN HARVEST FESTIVALWaynesboroIncludes arts and crafts, food, games, childrens activities, music, Great Pumpkin Contest, parade, and more. CONTACT: Shane Bratcher, (931) 332-4994, www.waynecountychamber.org

OCTOBER 18

AUTUMN BLAZE ARTS FESTIVALWaverlyFeatures arts and crafts, live music, and childrens activities. CONTACT: Karen Hutchinson, (931) 296-5860

OCTOBER 18

HATCHIE FALL FESTHistoric Court Square, BrownsvilleIncludes cooking and eating contests, a 5K run/walk, pet show, rock-climbing wall, dunking booth, train display, mini-tractor pull, childrens games and activities, arts and crafts, quilt show, sidewalk sales, live music, and more. CONTACT: Sonia Outlaw-Clark, (731) 780-5144, www.allaboutbrownsville.net

OCTOBER 18 & 24-25

GHOSTLY GATHERINGHistoric RugbyA calling of the spirits from Rugbys past and a look at how Halloween came to be. Includes a chili and cornbread dinner, candle and lantern tours, storytelling, and more. CONTACT: (888) 214-3400, www.historicrugby.org

Events & Festivals


OCTOBER 18-19

CLEVELAND APPLE FESTIVALDowntown ClevelandA family event featuring a juried arts and crafts show, live bluegrass music, pony rides, apple dessert competition, and Little Miss Apple Blossom Pageant. CONTACT: Festival Information, (423) 421-7275, www.mainstreetcleveland.com

OCTOBER 18-19

MUSIC & MOLASSES ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVALTennessee Agricultural Museum, NashvilleArts, crafts, old-time activities and bluegrass music are part of the fun that includes molasses making, cornmeal from the gristmill, activities for children, an 1860 living history camp, and authentic chuck wagon cooking. CONTACT: (615) 837-5197, www.tnagmuseum.org

OCTOBER 24-26

9th ANNUAL OFF THE BEATEN PATH STUDIO TOURDeKalb and Cannon CountiesWhile visitors enjoy the beautifu

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Fall 2008, Tennessee Home and Farm