out n about magazine

In honor ofDale Earnhardt's induction intothe NASCAR Hall of Fame

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Jan Hendren Bradley Keeps the Popcorn Popping Erwin, TN - While many downtown movie theaters across America have since moved to a mega mall and expanded to six, eight or twelve screens, one small local movie theater continues to thrive.

“I really think it is because we are so affordable,” Jan Hendren Bradley said with a smile. “Tickets for adults are $6.50 and $4.50 for children and seniors during matinees.”

Celebrating its 70th anniversary, the two screened Capitol Cinema I & II on Main Avenue nearly kissed the downtown corner block goodbye five years ago when longtime owner Joe Hendren passed away. But Jan Hendren Bradley, and her sister Luann Hendren, decided to keep the popular theater open in honor of their late father.

But the task wasn’t easy as the theater had fallen prey to age and extensive renovations were needed to keep up with the times. On Labor Day, 2005 the sisters closed the theater and for nine weeks it received a much needed face lift. New screening equipment was installed complimented with new state-of-the art Dolby sound systems in both theaters, new comfortable seats and a fresh coat of paint throughout. The gamble cost Jan and Luann thousands of dollars but in the end, “We were really pleased with the results of the much needed face lift and it has paid off,” she said. The community has continued to support us and in these

tough economic times I am pleased that we’ve been able to keep our prices affordable so that families can continue to enjoy a night out at the movies.”Jan says she hopes new restaurants like the Los Jalapeño’s that is locating in front of Wall-Mart will soon discover Unicoi County. “We attract a good au-

dience from the surrounding 50 mile radius,” Jan reported. “But, (for example) I think people are attracted to Johnson City somewhat because they want to enjoy a meal before or after a movie. We are seeing an increase in dining option here and that certainly helps to attract the people living in our community inviting them to stay at home and visit us to see a movie.”

Monday through Friday, Capitol Cinema opens at 6:30 p.m. offering two features; Saturday it opens at 4:30 p.m. offering a matinee for everyone for $4.50 followed by two movie options at 7 and 9 p.m.; Sunday shows are offered at 2 and 4 p.m. also for $4.50 per person. Cinema I seats 250 and streams shows on a large screen while Cinema II seats 100 in a more intimate setting. Jan, a former member of the Unicoi County School Board, remains committed to supporting the community and its many causes. She and her sister support a laundry list of community events including: Relay for Life, Unicoi County Sheriff’s Department,Unicoi County School System, Kiwanis Club and, “We are really committed to anything childorientated,” Jan said matter-of-factly. Besides cheap ticket prices, Jan points out the “really reasonable prices” in the concession stand.Normally, this is where theatre owners reap huge profits. For example, “We offer a 3 sizes of popcorn & drinks starting priced between $3 & $5, and we have $1 refills on any size purchased. We keep it simple. . .popcorn, soft drinks and 50 choices of candy.” When the theater reopened with ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ and ‘Walk the Line’, the story of Johnny Cash, Jan was surprised that ‘Walk the Line’ sold out the entire first week of the engagement run. “I didn’t anticipate that but his story was of interest to a lot of people in our region that grew up listening to his music.” Jan admits some films don’t make it to Erwin because of costs. “I guess one of the drawbacksto having only two screens in a small town is we can’t commit to some films, recently like ‘Iron Man 2’ because there is a four week minimum to run that particular movie. When you have two screens and not 15, and your target audience is under 30,000, that proposition is just not feasible.

Jan Hendren Bradley inside her Erwin theater

Women In Business

JAN HENDREN BRADLEY FACTOID

Loves fast cars; owns a 911 Porsche and •dreams of driving a Formula 1 car.Was a flight attendant for 10 years but is •afraid of heights.Tends a large garden. Known as the Lisa •Douglas (Green Acres) of Unicoi County.Married to Kent Bradley. Two children •from a previous marriage, Trey, 12 and Alexa 15.Once rode 6,000 miles cross-country in 12 •days on a Harley Davidson Motorcycle.Won the Springfest and Apple Festival •bicycle races. Skis and scuba dives.

Out ‘ N About Magazine

August 2010

Oldest Business in Tennessee Located in Our Own BackyardWatauga, TN – The St. Johnson Milling Company

has a history of over 200 years of continuous opera-tion as Tennessee’s oldest business. Established in 1778 between Elizabethton and Johnson City, St. John Milling Company is still active today and the Stone Manor adjacent the mill is one of Tennessee’s two oldest homes.

Jeremiah Dungan, the original owner of the mill, purchased a deed for the mill, stone manor, and 400 acres of land from the Watauga Association in 1778. A master stone mason by trade, Dungan built the original foundation of the mill from hand-chiseled stone and hand-hewn timber. The stone manor and stone mill foundations are still standing 200 years later, attesting to his fine workmanship.

The original mill was powered by a sixteen foot high, wooden overshot, water wheel. The wheel was connected by dogwood tunnel head gearing to two 54 inch diameter stone burs, one for grinding corn and the other for grinding wheat. To lubricate the gears and bearings, beef and mutton tallow were produced on the farm.

Throughout the years, St. John Mill became known as, “The Bread Basket of the Southeast.” In busy seasons, wagons lined up overnight in anticipation of farmers grind-ing their grain come morning.

Nowadays, the emphasis of the mill operation has changed from a general feed and milling business to a feed and seed store. The mill now specializes in all aspects of farm needs, from grains to pet food and veterinary supplies.

August, 2010 Website: www.outnaboutmagazine.com Volume 1, Issue 3Composition and Printing by Star Printing, a Divison of Elizabethton STAR

Send news and photo items to: [email protected] advertising to: [email protected]

Ron Scalf, Editor & Publisher Jon Ruetz, Contributing Writer James Sherrill, Graphic Editor Eileen Rush, Contributing Writer Pam Johnson, Advertising Sales Manager Amanda Carr, Contributing Writer Pam Rhymer, Advertising Sales Associate Tyler Blake, Contributing Writer Graham Bannister, Advertising Sales Associate Jeri George, WQUT Music & Concert Information

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upon contents or any advertising, including any claims or suits for defamation, copyright infringement, libel, plagiarism or right of privacy.

Knoxville ZooKnoxville, TN. --- Lions and ti-

gers and bears. Oh My!Just a short drive from the Tri-

Cities, our Day Trip this month fea-tures the Knoxville Zoo. Established in 1947, the zoo is Knoxville’s larg-est year-round attraction and is only closed on Christmas Day.

Situated on 53 acres, the Knox-ville Zoo presents animals from all over the world including: zebras, lions, elephants, chimps and goril-las, black bears, leopards, cheetahs, meerkats, and wolves just to name a few.

In recent years, the zoo has been the center of many expansion proj-ects in an effort to play host and home to as many domestic and ex-otic animals as possible. And, if you want to get up close and personal with the animals, Knoxville Zoo is the place to go and taking the whole family is a must.

Close Encounters of the Wild Kind allows visitors to travel off the beaten path to meet elephants, gi-raffes, penguins, or giant Aldabra tortoises. Tortoises “Tex” and “Big Al” are 75 and 120 years old and 350 and 550 pounds respectively and love to have their necks and heads scratched.

During these special encounters visitors get the opportunity to touch and feed their new animal friend, talk with the keepers to learn more about them and take a souvenir

photo of their very personal intro-duction.

On designated days, you can take an elephant excursion, attend a giraffe gathering and feed the animals as they walk up to you to receive a leafy treat. There is also a “black tie” affair featuring dozens of lovable penguins.

Also, at Knoxville Zoo’s Animal Encounter Village visitors may have the chance to sidle up to a snake, look a bird of prey in the eye, or get chummy with a chinchilla, to name a few. Kid-friendly shows take place throughout the day, and there’s al-ways a chance to touch an animal or a biofact during the interactive program.

“Who says you can’t touch the animals at the zoo?” laughs Kevin Hils, director of education at the Knoxville Zoo. “It’s our goal to en-courage kids and Nature to be on familiar terms. What a better way to do it than creating a place where you’re invited to get up close to

the animals and talk with our staff to learn all the fascinating details about them?”

Wee Play Replay: Popular Zoo Play Area Revamped and Reopened.

Wee Play Zoo is another popular stop for kids visiting the Knoxville Zoo. It’s a unique indoor play area that lets kids run their own zoo. New this year are the Kids Stage and Puppet Theatre where aspiring entertainers can put on their own animal show and the Play Wee Market, a pretend souvenir shop for junior entrepreneurs. A special sensory garden for infants has also made its debut this year; the Infant Crawl is a flexible play area for in-fants and young toddlers that in-corporates a variety of sensory and motor skill experiences for early de-velopment.

How to get there: Knoxville Zoo is located off exit 392A from Inter-state 40. The zoo is nationally ac-credited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is com-mitted to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education.

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For ticket information call 865-637-5331 ext. 300 or visit HY-PERLINK "http://www.knoxville-zoo.org" www.knoxville-zoo.org.


AMERICAN GRILLE F E A T U R I N G Certified Angus Beef ®

Burgers and Steaks, 20 Taps, 18 Screens,A Casual Atmosphere In An HistoricDowntown Setting.112 TIPTON ST • JOHNSON CITY

18 SCREENSAND 20 TAPS

August 2010


500 Campsites with Utilities 700 Campsites without Utilities1200 CAMPSITES

FOODON PREMISEsunrise to sunset

LOTSOF PARKING!FOR TAILGATING

www.allamericancampgrounds.com

ALL-AMERICANCAMPGROUNDS

Providing: Golf Cart Rentals,Golf Course Passes & More!www.bristolracewayministries.org

All American Campground offers thousands of sites within a short walk to the trackmany with full utlities.Golf Cart rentals available. To reserve call: 423-323-7247.Race Day parking only $25. Tailgating encouraged!All American Campground showers have been upgraded. Hot Water! Hot Water! Hot Water! Plus 24 Hour Security.Plus a New! Restaurant Turn and Burn Eatz!Food, refreshments, ice, & souvenirs available on site.Opening August 15th for all the racing action.

To make your stay more enjoyable!

August 6: Malcolm HolcombeAugust 7: Sandy Ray & The Cold Shoulders With Bootleg TurnAugust 13: Demon WaffleAugust 14: Red Country Gospel & Terry Lewis

August 20: Kim Lyons, Annie Robinette & Joy Lynn White August 26: Elizabeth CookAugust 27: Shannon WhitworthAugust 28: The SteelDrivers

August 2010

Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville:Aug 18 Sheryl CrowAug 31 Natalie MerchantSept 15 Black CrowesSept 20 Crosby, Stills and Nash

Knoxville Civic Coliseum:Sept 30 Slayer, Anthrax and Megadeth

Smokies Stadium in Sevierville:Sept 3 Styx and Kansas

Foothills Fall Festival in Maryville, TN:Oct 8-10 Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special and more

Bridgestone Arena in Nashville:Aug 7 Lilith Fair (cancelled)Aug 11 Justin BieberAug 12 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with Crosby Stills and NashOct 13 Carrie UnderwoodOct 15 Jonas Brothers with

Demi Lovato (cancelled)

Ryman Auditorium in Nashville:Aug 17 HeartSept 12 The Black CrowesOct 1 Sheryl Crow

Asheville Civic Center in Asheville, N.C.:Aug 12 SugarlandSept 19 The Black Crowes

Biltmore in Asheville, N.C.:Sept 24 Christopher Cross

Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C.:Aug 8 Justin BieberSept 18 Lady GagaOct 16 Chelsea HandlerOct 30 Carrie Underwood

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in Charlotte, N.C.:Aug 6 Lilith Fair (cancelled)Aug 28 KissSept 10 Kings of LeonSept 19 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with ZZ Top

Ovens Auditorium in Charlotte:Sept 25 Ron White

Time Warner Cable Pavillion in Raleigh, N.C.:Aug 4 Lilith Fair (cancelled)Aug 29 KissSept 18 Tom Petty and the

Heartbreakers with ZZ Top

House of Blues in Myrtle Beach, S.C.: Aug 3 Gov’t MuleAug 10 CinderellaSept 14 Black Crowes

Bi-lo Center in Greenville, S.C.:Dec 16 Justin Bieber

Philips Arena in Atlanta:Aug 11 Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with Crosby Stills and NashNov 18 Roger WatersDec 23 Justin Bieber

Chastain Park in Atlanta:Aug 5 Sarah McLachianAug 12 Goo Goo DollsAug 13 38 Special/Drivin’ n Cryin’Aug 15 Jackson BrowneAug 18 Heart Aug 29 Billy Idol and Joan Jett

The Arena at Gwinnett Center in Atlanta:Aug 1 American Idol LiveAug 9 Justin BieberOct 1 Slayer, Anthrax and MegadethOct 27 Carrie Underwood

Verizon Wireless at Encore Park in Alpharetta, Ga:Aug 9 Green DaySept 29 Rush

Down Home Concert Schedule

WQUT Concert Schedule


Regional Happenings

September 7 – 11 — 2 p.m.Storytelling Live! featuring Sparky and Rhonda Rucker

International Storytelling Center, Jonesborough, TN$10 for adults; $9 for seniors, students, and children under 18

September 14 – 18 — 2 p.m.Storytelling Live! featuring Minton Sparks

International Storytelling Center, Jonesborough, TN $10 for adults; $9 for seniors, students, and children under 18

September 21 – 25 — 2 p.m.Storytelling Live! featuring Brenda Wong Aoki


September 27 – 30 — 2 p.m.Storytelling Live! featuring Donald Davis


September 29 — 7:30 p.m.Storytelling Live! special evening performance

featuring Donald Davis on the National Storytelling Festival groundsInternational Storytelling Center, Jonesborough, TN - $15

Storytelling Live! Mark Your CalendarsInternational Storytelling Center, Jonesborough, Tennessee

4 p.m. – 9 p.m.: Children’s Carnival / Water Wars

12 – 5 p.m.: Health Fair (NE TN Minority Resource Network)2 p.m. – until: Corn Hole competition

Main Stage1 – 4 p.m.: Gospel Fest

4 p.m.: Stoney Creek Cloggers4:45 p.m.: Frito Puente5:45 p.m.: Blue Jackson

6:45 p.m.: 4.07:45 p.m.: MC Lightfoot

9 p.m.: SOS BandStage 2

1 p.m.: Mariachi Band2 p.m.: Storytelling

3 p.m.: Rhythm on the Ridge3:30 p.m.: Zulu Connection

with Kuumba Watoto Dancers and Drummers – Walk

4 p.m.: Workshop at Hands-On with Shaka Zulu and Kuumba Dancers

5 p.m.: DNoRRi7 p.m.: Zulu Connection

14th Annual Umoja/Unity Festivalin Downtown Johnson City. Mark your calendar for August 13-14, 2010, when downtown Johnson City plays host to the annual UMOJA (Unity) festival. This year’s festival includes a second stage, a children’s carnival

(Friday afternoon and Saturday), car show, food and craft vendors, storytellers, health screening, Gray Fossil site exhibit, and more! Umoja, a Swahili word meaning unity, puts a special emphasis on celebrating African American and Latino cultures, creating the most diverse festival in the area. Along with live music, there will

be more than 70 arts and crafts vendors and 30 to 40 food vendors.

(423) 943-9162 • www.umojajc.org

Reservations recommended • (423) 913-1276 • www.storytellingcenter.net

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13Main Stage

Opening Ceremony at 3 p.m. and a Call to Drums with Rev. Vincent Dial and Zulu Connection

3:30 p.m.: Amythyst Phillips4:30 p.m.: Xavier (comedy)

5:30 p.m.: Bag of Cats6:30 p.m.: The Brothers Boys

7:30 p.m.: Unlimited8:30 p.m.: MC Lightfoot

9:30 p.m.: Plunky and OnenessStage 2

3:30 p.m.: Zulu Connection4:30 p.m.: Storytelling

7 p.m.: Zulu Connection

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14Parade starts at Carver Recreation Center at 10 a.m.

THEATRE

Barter Theatre, Abingdon VA.Playing during the month of August:James & the Giant PeachAnnieTuesday with MorrieThe Blue-Sky BoysA Southern ExposureShake, Rattle & RolLSCHEDULE/TICKET INFO: 276-628-3991www.bartertheatre.com

Jonesborough (TN.) Repertory TheatreSeascape: August 5-8; 12-15The Last Five Years: Auditions: August 9-10www.jonesboroughtheatre.com

Johnson City (TN.) Community TheatreBells on Their Toes: August 6-8; 13-15www.jcct.usSouthern Appalachian Repertory Theatre,

Mars Hill, N.C.Tradin’ Paint: August 4-22www.sartplays.org

Proud Annie Mystery Theatre, Jonesborough, TN.

The Fatal Fifties Affair: August 4-22

MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENTOld-Time Appalachian Music Jam

Fridays 6-10 p.m. Downtown Blountville, TN.Saturdays 2-4 p.m. Bristol Welcome Center

Storytelling Tuesday EveningsThe Cranberry Thistle, Jonesborough, TN. 7-8:30 p.m.

Twilight Alive Concert SeriesThursdays, Downtown Kingsport, TN. 7 p.m.

Bluegrass on Broad Concert SeriesDowntown Kingsport, TN. Fridays 7 p.m.

Music On The SquareDowntown Jonesborough, TN. Fridays, 7 p.m.

Sunday Jams At Carter MansionCarter Mansion, Elizabethton, TN. Last Sunday Monthly 2-5 p.m.

FESTIVALS/FAIRS & MOREAppalachian Fair, Gray, TN.

August 23-28; Tickets: 423-477-1420; www.appalachianfair.com

Virginia Highlands FestivalJuly 24-August 8; Abingdon, VA.

August 2010

Gray, TN. --- Richard Shadden thought for a minute and then admit-ted he didn’t realize that this year’s Appalachian Fair marks his 25th an-niversary as General Manager/Secre-tary for one of the state’s most popu-lar events that envelops the Gray Fair Grounds every August.

“That kinda snuck up on me I guess,” the personable Shadden said with a smile. “I can tell you this. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all the years of be-ing here and I am just as enthusiastic this year as I was 25 years ago.”

The Appalachian Fair kicks off August 23rd and runs through August 28th for the 83rd year of ageless fun and Shadden has seen the changes though the years. From Day 1, when he witnessed a few hundred visitors to a much smaller fair grounds to this year’s event that is likely to boast over 225,000 visitors, Shadden is the last person to take credit for the fair’s incredible success from its meager be-ginnings.

“I could not do this job without the dedicated people who come back year after year and help us accomplish our goal of presenting a great fair to the community in a family atmosphere,”

he said. “I can’t do it by myself and I owe a lot to the members of the board of directors and my staff.”

Shadden reports that fairs across the nation are facing challenging times but he and the Appalachian Fair Board of Directors are adamant about keeping ticket prices low to attract families to the fair.

“The biggest change and chal-lenge that I see today has to do with the budget,” Shadden points out. “For example, when the events of 911 un-folded our (liability) insurance went from $18,000 to $64,000. We took a really hard hit but we still were able to hold ticket prices to $8. You can’t go anywhere and get the type of en-tertainment and other events we offer for that.”

Call that just good management. Hence, insurance prices have dropped but still hover around $35,000.

Shadden also embraces local partners like WXBQ radio as a con-stant ingredient in making the week’s events such a success. “WXBQ helps us tremendously with the entertain-ment,” he said. “We present family orientated entertainment and they are very knowledgeable about the acts that

are available and the one’s that fit our budget.

“And, we have so many civic clubs that help us like the South Holston and Piney Flats Ruritan Clubs with our parking and those who work in the concessions stands and the Wash-ington County Sheriff’s Department with the traffic control there are so many people behind the scenes help-ing us put a quality event on it is really unbelievable . . . a team effort.”

Last year a little know group (at the time) by the name of Lady Antebellum played the fair for a paltry $12,500. Today, they would cost over $125,000 “if you could get them,” Shadden said. “While the entertainment and the rides are an important part of the fair we have so much more to offer and I think a lot of people forget that. The big name entertainers are really expensive and with all the equipment, sound, travel, food, logging and riders (special things groups demand such as gourmet meals and golf outings during down time) we really can’t af-ford to book them. Plus, keep in mind when we start booking bands in the winter we don’t know if they’ll be hot come August and also we have to deal

with the elements of the entertainment being outdoors. However, in the past we have hosted some of the leading names in Country Music and we still attract many of the up-and-comers like Lady Antebellum. Some of the little known names may soon be-come big stars. And, you just might see them at the Appalachian Fair.”

Even though the annual Appala-chian Fair is the single biggest draw to the fairgrounds in Gray, the site is used throughout the year for a variety of events from the Battle of the Pigs/Car Show, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts Jamborees, 4- H and FFA events, dog shows and mo-tor cross events, just to name a few. “We’ve had a pretty good year thus far,” Shadden reports. “The entire economy is down but we’ve had a lot of bookings. Our future looks good.”

Shadden points to a very suc-cessful program with area schools linked to the Tennessee Department of Education. This year, 1,600 third graders will visit the fair and par-ticipate in a host of events aimed at “teaching the kids how their parents and grandparents lived on the farm

and what they went through, as well as education instruction revolving around beef and dairy farming as well as wildlife, a petting zoo, cave exploration and a segment on fish, and how bread and soap are made from scratch.”

The Appalachian Fair sets on 92 acres and another 30 acres are leased for parking. Out ‘N About Magazine encourages our readers to get out and support Shadden and the Appalachian Fair!

Celebrating 25 Years:Richard Shadden Has Been the Face of the Appalachian Fair

Shadden stays busy on the phone arranging for this year’s entertain-ment;

Shadden stands by one of the many framed posters in his office of a past Drew Exposition sponsored fair.

MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT

Monday, August 23: Danny Cokey, Idol FameTuesday, August 24:

Jaron & The Lonely Road to Love

Wednesday, August 25: Colt Ford

Thursday, August 26: David Nail

Friday, August 27: Perry The Band

(from Greenville)Saturday, August 28:

Troy Olsen

MUSEUM STAGEMonday, August 23:

Fairest of the Fair – 8 p.m.Tuesday, August 24:

Little Miss Contest – 6 p.m.Wednesday, August 25:

Gary Ray and the HeartwellsThursday, August 26:

Youth Talent ContestFriday, August 27:

Dance Night Tri-City Area Dance Companies

Saturday, August 28: UT Centennial Celebration & Special Entertainment by 4-H

Performing Arts Troupe


Do your duty: VOTEJoyful political life proves one man, one vote matters

Calvin C. Willis has lived a political life.For 50 years, he has earned his living as a salesman, busi-

nessman and in construction, with a quick smile and easy man-ner befitting his nickname, “Bud.”

But, for more than 60 years, politics has been his passion and joy.

“I never asked for a thing for me, and all the politicians knew it. All I wanted was good, clean people elected to run the best government we could get,” Willis said, re-flecting from his John-son City home on the people he has known and his rich trove of experiences.

Willis has been a study in motion. Active in Lone Oak Chris-tian Church, and in many civic organizations, he is former chairman of the Johnson City Industrial Bond Board and a 50-year member of the Washington County Republican Executive Committee. His convictions caused Willis to place his own name on the ballot a couple of times, 25 years apart, as a candidate for both county magistrate and executive.

But his iconic reputation as a consummate politician – “the go-to guy” – was earned through many long years of working hard for others who had the courage to face the electorate, and then using his clout to help fellow citizens in need.

Soft-spoken and reluctant to take any personal credit, Willis describes his lifetime of civic involvement simply as “something I could do, and wanted to do, for the betterment of my com-munity and for my family, and for all families.”

Opening up Willis’ vault of memories is like stepping back in time, to the glory days of poli-tics, a time when big crowds of citizens still turned out to hear candidates make their pitch – sometimes literally on a stump – traveling in a leased bus bedecked with big banners, or speak-ing from the back of the last car a “special,” pulled by a vintage locomotive throughout the Northeast Tennessee hills.

And those memories inevitably take Willis back to a pivotal moment in his life – the day in 1964 when he met Howard Henry Baker Jr. of Huntsville.

“I had heard Ken Roberts on the radio and I thought, ‘When he runs, I’m going to support him.’ All the power up here was for Roberts,” who was preparing to mount a campaign for U.S. Senate.

“But I went to a meeting for Howard. There was Roscoe and Ina Mae Potter, Virginia Jen-nings, May Ross McDowell – there were only eight of us – and we were all convinced. I re-member getting him back in a corner and asking him, ‘What are you made out of?’

“When you shake his hand, you feel so much sincerity and warmth. His smile, and that easy manner, are the best I’ve ever seen in politics. Anyone that got the chance to meet Howard Baker in person couldn’t help but like him, and be for him.”

In 1964, Tennessee had not elected a Republican to the Sen-ate since Reconstruc-tion.

When longtime Demo-cratic Sen. Estes Kefauver died unex-pectedly in early August, 1963, Democratic Gov. Frank G. Clem-ent ap-pointed Herbert S. Walters to fill the seat until the next

election. A one-term mem-ber of the House of Repre-sentatives in the 1930s, the 80-year-old Walters was considered to be a place-holder for the enigmatic Clement, a powerful force in Vol-unteer State politics.

The next year, Congressman Ross Bass upset the political apple cart – and the popular gover-nor – in securing the Dem-ocratic nomination for the remaining two years of Kefauver’s term.

After 15 years of practicing law, Baker had decided to follow in his father’s political foot-steps. The elder Baker had served in Congress since 1951 and the family was well-regarded in Repub-lican East Tennessee. Howard H. Baker Jr. won his first election

Calvin C. Willis has lived a political life.For 50 years, he has earned his living as a salesman, businessman and in construction, with a

quick smile and easy manner befitting his nickname, “Bud.”But, for more than 60 years, politics has been his passion and joy.“I never asked for a thing for me, and all

the politicians knew it. All I wanted was good, clean people elected to run the best government we could get,” Willis said, re-flecting from his Johnson City home on the people he has known and his rich trove of experiences.

Willis has been a study in motion. Active in Lone Oak Christian Church, and in many civic organizations, he is former chairman of the Johnson City Industrial Bond Board and a 50-year member of the Washington County Republican Executive Committee. His convictions caused Willis to place his own name on the ballot a couple of times, 25 years apart, as a candidate for both county magistrate and executive.

But his iconic reputation as a consummate politician – “the go-to guy” – was earned through many long years of working hard for others who had the courage to face the electorate, and then using his clout to help fellow citizens in need.

Soft-spoken and reluctant to take any personal credit, Willis describes his lifetime of civic involvement simply as “something I could do, and wanted to do, for the betterment of my com-munity and for my family, and for all families.”

Opening up Willis’ vault of memories is like stepping back in time, to the glory days of poli-tics, a time when big crowds of citizens still turned out to hear candidates make their pitch – sometimes literally on a stump – traveling in a leased bus bedecked with big banners, or speak-ing from the back of the last car a “special,” pulled by a vintage locomotive throughout the Northeast Tennessee hills.

And those memories inevitably take Willis back to a pivotal moment in his life – the day in 1964 when he met Howard Henry Baker Jr. of Huntsville.

“I had heard Ken Roberts on the radio and I thought, ‘When he runs, I’m going to support him.’ All the power up here was for Roberts,” who was preparing to mount a campaign for U.S.

Do your duty: VOTE

Joyful political life proves one man, one vote matters

Calvin C. ‘Bud’ Willis, center, and Roscoe Potter with Howard H. Baker Jr. on the campaign trail in 1966.

Continued on Page 2

Senate.“But I went to a meeting for Howard. There was Roscoe and Ina Mae Potter, Virginia Jen-

nings, May Ross McDowell – there were only eight of us – and we were all convinced. I re-member getting him back in a corner and asking him, ‘What are you made out of?’

“When you shake his hand, you feel so much sincerity and warmth. His smile, and that easy manner, are the best I’ve ever seen in politics. Anyone that got the chance to meet Howard Baker in person couldn’t help but like him, and be for him.”

In 1964, Tennessee had not elected a Republican to the Senate since Reconstruc-tion.

When longtime Demo-cratic Sen. Estes Kefauver died unexpectedly in early August, 1963, Democratic Gov. Frank G. Clement ap-pointed Herbert S. Walters to fill the seat until the next election. A one-term mem-ber of the House of Repre-sentatives in the 1930s, the 80-year-old Walters was considered to be a place-holder for the enigmatic Clement, a powerful force in Volunteer State politics.

The next year, Congressman Ross Bass upset the political apple cart – and the popular gover-nor – in securing the Democratic nomination for the remaining two years of Kefauver’s term.

After 15 years of practicing law, Baker had decided to follow in his father’s political foot-steps. The elder Baker had served in Congress since 1951 and the family was well-regarded in Republican East Tennessee. Howard H. Baker Jr. won his first election victory, overtaking Rob-erts in the primary.

That November, Lyndon Johnson surged to a landslide win in the presidential election and Howard Baker, along with many other Republicans, went down to defeat. But Baker came close, running a much stronger race against Bass than had been thought possible. Then, in 1966, Clement defeated Bass in the Democratic primary as Baker cruised to another primary win, and the previously expected Clement/Baker contest was on.

Continued on Page 3

2

‘When you shake his hand, you feel so much sincerity and warmth. His smile, and that easy manner, are the best I’ve ever seen in politics. Anyone that got the chance to meet Howard Baker in person couldn’t help but like him, and be for him.’

“That was just a great year, in politics, and in our lives,” Willis said. “The time was right and Baker was ready.” He recalls many delightful moments, including a mass mailing of cards to voters, with small paper bags serving as envelopes and the handwritten teaser on the front: “It’s in the bag...”

“We had the Baker Bandwagon, filled with supporters, and we traveled all over the First District in that thing. We went to big events and little country stores, and we had good crowds everywhere we went. Baker was masterful on the stump. I can remember him searching through his coat pockets for his notes and then just going without them. He didn’t need them.”

In the November general elec-tion, the young lawyer from Huntsville reshaped Tennessee politics. In fact, he is credited with having led the way to a GOP resurgence in the Southeast and, ultimately, the nation.

The people who had been with Baker through more than two years of campaigning once again boarded the big bus and traveled to Washington for the swearing-in ceremony.

“Howard said, ‘Just promise me that you won’t get mad at me until you find out why I voted like I did,’ Willis said.

That request came into play when Baker supported Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s Panama Canal Treaty in 1977. “A lot of people around here didn’t like it. I didn’t like it either, at first. But once he explained his reasoning to me, as always, it made good sense. He knew what he was doing.”

“He said, ‘Bud, we don’t need another brushfire. We’ve got them all over the world now. One bazooka shot, and one ship gets sunk in the canal, and it’s out of commission for a long time and we’re back to sailing all the way around South America.’”

Encouraged by actor John Wayne, who had longtime ties to the Central American country and threw his considerable support behind the treaty, it was passed in the Senate.

Continued on Page 4

3

Politics then and nowAbove, Bud and Janet Willis and friends prepare to board the ‘Baker Bandwagon’ in 1966. Below, Tennessee House candidate Timothy Hill, left, confers with them in 2010.

was Howard. He had been standing there listening to me.” The Tennesseans organized a barbecue for their candidate. “They told us we’d be lucky to

have 300 people there. They flew Howard in, and he was still at the hotel, and of course you know there are so many things you have to work on to put together something as big as a presi-dential run.

“I was looking around, and realized they needed to get him over there. People just kept coming in. It turned out that we had more than 3,000 people there. It was a great success.”

Despite considerable interest in and support for Baker, his job as leader kept him Washington much of the time, and 1980 became the year for another veteran politician to win the Republican nomination.

“Ronald Reagan was the most significant politician I have seen on the national stage. He had been in the spotlight so long, and he was accustomed to it. He was able to articulate his beliefs so well. He made it look so easy. He had such a rapport with people.”

Willis was chosen as an elector in 1980, and attended his third national political convention that year. Reagan’s landslide victory brought enough Republicans to Washington to give Baker a new position – Senate majority leader.

Willis was all of 7 when he had his first “political” experience, watching as a car passed his Hamilton Street home bedecked with a “Carl Young for Sheriff” sign.” He recalls making some statement, and his dad “climbing my frame for it.”

He humorously describes himself as the product of “a mixed marriage” between his Demo-cratic father, B.W., and his Republican mother, Annie Treadway. Brothers Joe and W.T. and sister Margaret all followed his father’s Democratic leanings. “I tell ‘em I’m the only child my mother raised,” he says with a laugh.

His wife, Janet, has been at his side and shared the decades of involvement. A former chair-man of the Washington County Republican Women, she is a member of the Washington County Election Commission.

And, even though they are not as active as their parents, Willis is pleased that his children – Wes, and his wife, Lisa; Anne, and her husband, Phillip Patrick; Lydia; and Blaine, and his

Continued on Page 6

5

Janet and Bud Willis with Tex and Dorothy Ritter.

president too quickly, but that was his decision and I respect it. I believe he, just like Howard, would have made an exceptional president. But it is a mean game, and you’ve got to play hard and mean in order to get the huge amount of money it takes to run. And then there’s the media to deal with.”

Willis said he can understand the general feeling of distrust about politics.“It’s what people can see. All they see, and hear, is that all politicians are crooked, in it for the

money. And they think, ‘my vote doesn’t count.’

I don’t believe that at all,” he says with a sweep of his arms to add emphasis.

One election day, in a particu-larly tight race, “it got down to two paper ballots. The next to the last one had been erased and changed. Which meant it was not a legal ballot. So then it was down to one. And that one vote decided the election. There are plenty of examples where liter-ally one vote does matter, and many where just a few votes de-cide the outcome,” Willis said.

“It used to be that candidates had to be powerful in the precincts, or districts, in order to even run. Now we’ve got a lot of good people who haven’t really had much political experience stick their necks out and run for office. I think that’s a good thing.”

Willis recalls a dozen stories of poll watching on election days – including the time he found a man trying to buy votes. “I followed him everywhere, even out into the woods. Just watching. If they’re trying something dirty, they can’t stand that. They don’t want anyone to see.”

“We used to roam around on election day, just watching, trying to make sure than nothing dirty or underhanded went on. I remember one time we put out the word that every precinct was going to be checked, and by George, we did it. Dale Archer and I went to every one of them, and some of them twice, before the day was over.”

Willis echoes many of the founders of the republic when says he knows of only one thing that will keep the passion of his life honest, and the people in rightful control.

“Think of the men who have fought for this country over all these years. Think of the people who set up the country, the families who struggled to make it live. Think of your own mothers and fathers, or grandmothers and grandfathers.

“Then get involved and stay involved.”

8

Senator Howard H. Baker Jr. at ease with friends traveling in the First District aboard ‘The Baker Special.’

n See BUD WILLIS, 11

August 2010

victory, overtaking Rob-erts in the primary.

That November, Lyndon Johnson surged to a landslide win in the pres-idential election and Howard Baker, along with many other Republicans, went down to defeat. But Baker came close, running a much stronger race against Bass than had been thought possible. Then, in 1966, Clement de-feated Bass in the Democratic prima-ry as Baker cruised to another prima-ry win, and the previously expected Clement/Baker contest was on.

“That was just a great year, in politics, and in our lives,” Willis said. “The time was right and Baker was ready.” He recalls many delightful moments, including a mass mailing of cards to voters, with small paper bags serving as envelopes and the handwritten teaser on the front: “It’s in the bag...”

“We had the Baker Bandwagon, filled with supporters, and we trav-eled all over the First District in that thing. We went to big events and little country stores, and we had good crowds everywhere we went. Baker was masterful on the stump. I can re-member him searching through his coat pockets for his notes and then just going without them. He didn’t need them.”

In the November general elec-tion, the young lawyer from Huntsville re-shaped Tennessee politics. In fact, he is credited with having led the way to a GOP resurgence in the Southeast and, ultimately, the nation.

The people who had been with Baker through more than two years of campaigning once again boarded the big bus and traveled to Washing-ton for the swearing-in ceremony.

“Howard said, ‘Just promise me that you won’t get mad at me until you find out why I voted like I did,’ Willis said.

That request came into play when Baker supported Democratic Presi-dent Jimmy Carter’s Panama Ca-nal Treaty in 1977. “A lot of people around here didn’t like it. I didn’t like it either, at first. But once he explained his reasoning to me, as always, it made good sense. He knew

what he was doing.”“He said, ‘Bud, we don’t need

another brushfire. We’ve got them all over the world now. One bazooka shot, and one ship gets sunk in the canal, and it’s out of commission for a long time and we’re back to sailing all the way around South America.’”

Encouraged by actor John Wayne, who had longtime ties to the Central American country and threw his con-siderable support behind the treaty, it was passed in the Senate.

Baker had served as ranking member – the top Republican – on what is often called the Ervin Com-mittee, the Senate panel that inves-tigated the Watergate scandal and President Richard M. Nixon.

“That was very hard duty for How-ard. He was always a good and loyal man, and he was loyal to President Nixon. It was hard for him to ask that question.” At a key moment in the hearings, Baker conferred with his counsel, future senator Fred Thompson, and asked, “What did the president know and when did he know it?”

Baker’s credibility grew and the affable, capable Tennessean – often called “the great concili-ator” – was elected by his colleagues to serve as Senate minority leader in 1977.

In 1980, Baker set his sights on the presidential nomination, and Willis and several Northeast Ten-nessee Republicans traveled to New Hampshire to campaign once more for their old friend.

“I was talking to a fellow at a town meeting, and he was hot about that treaty,” Willis said. “I explained it to him just like Howard had explained it to me. And he finally nodded and said he understood. And then a voice behind me said, ‘I couldn’t have ex-plained it any better myself.’ It was Howard. He had been standing there listening to me.”

The Tennesseans organized a bar-becue for their candidate. “They told us we’d be lucky to have 300 people there. They flew Howard in, and he was still at the hotel, and of course you know there are so many things you have to work on to put together

something as big as a presi-dential run.

“I was looking around, and re-alized they needed to get him over there. People just kept coming in. It turned out that we had more than 3,000 people there. It was a great suc-cess.”

Despite considerable interest in and support for Baker, his job as leader kept him Washington much of the time, and 1980 became the year for another veteran politician to win the Republican nomination.

“Ronald Reagan was the most significant politician I have seen on the national stage. He had been in the spotlight so long, and he was accustomed to it. He was able to ar-ticulate his beliefs so well. He made it look so easy. He had such a rapport with people.”

Willis was chosen as an elector in 1980, and attended his third na-tional political convention that year. Reagan’s landslide victory brought enough Republicans to Washington to give Baker a new position – Senate majority leader.

Willis was all of 7 when he had his first “political” experience, watching as a car passed his Hamilton Street

home bedecked with a “Carl Young for Sheriff” sign.” He recalls making some statement, and his dad “climb-ing my frame for it.”

He humorously describes himself as the product of “a mixed marriage” between his Demo-cratic father, B.W.,

and his Republican mother, Annie Treadway. Brothers Joe and W.T. and sister Margaret all followed his father’s Democratic leanings. “I tell ‘em I’m the only child my mother

n Continued from 10

Bud Willis

Baker had served as ranking member – the top Republican – on what is often called the Ervin Committee, the Senate panel that investigated the Watergate scandal and President Richard M. Nixon.

“That was very hard duty for Howard. He was always a good and loyal man, and he was loyal to President Nixon. It was hard for him to ask that question.” At a key moment in the hearings, Baker conferred with his counsel, future senator Fred Thompson, and asked, “What did the president know and when did he know it?”

Baker’s credibility grew and the affable, capable Tennessean – often called “the great concili-ator” – was elected by his colleagues to serve as Senate minority leader in 1977.

In 1980, Baker set his sights on the presidential nomination, and Willis and several Northeast Tennessee Republicans traveled to New Hampshire to campaign once more for their old friend.

“I was talking to a fellow at a town meeting, and he was hot about that treaty,” Willis said. “I explained it to him just like Howard had explained it to me. And he finally nodded and said he understood. And then a voice behind me said, ‘I couldn’t have explained it any better myself.’ It

Continued on Page 5

‘With the encouragement and support of Baker and Quillen, the group took on the name Tennessee Singing Republicans and took off from Tri-Cities Airport in a May Ross McDowell-financed DC-9, bound for Miami and a debut as the first non-

professional singing group to perform at a national political convention in 1968.’

4

fiance, Meg Eason – “are all very patriotic. They all vote, and never miss.“I’ve told my own children, just like I would tell anyone else, it is very important that you

vote. That freedom could easily be taken from us. It is a duty you have, to God and this country, to go vote. I say God because He is at the foundation of the country.”

Willis was just out of high school and serving in the U.S. Navy when he sent home for his first ballot, en-abling him to vote absentee. He has not missed a single election since.

“Whether it was a contested race or not, I went and voted,” Willis said. “I feel like it’s my duty, and it’s the same for everyone else. Get out and vote, or surely don’t com-plain about the results.”

Willis laughed at his wife’s rec-ollection of Baker once saying: “If you don’t want to know the truth, then don’t ask Bud.”

And he said he tried to do just that, as he became associated with many of the most prominent names in politics.

He lauded former Congressman B. Carroll Reece for “having a great reputation across the state, and throughout the nation as well.” Reece served 17 terms in Congress, and also as chair of the Republican National Com-mittee in the 1940s. He died just after being sworn in for his 18th term and his wife, Louise, filled out his unexpired term.

Former Congressman Jimmy Quillen and Willis didn’t always see eye-to-eye. “He wasn’t too enthusiastic about Baker. I think he thought that somehow it would take away from him here in the First District to have a Republican senator. But of course it wouldn’t, and didn’t. But Quil-len was quite a politician, and he became known for that excellent constituent service from his office.”

Willis “thought the world of former Rep. Leon Cox,” who was later appointed to the cabinet of then-Gov. Winfield Dunn.

“He was a good and honest man. And Winfield was too. I just loved him. Of course, he made the mistake with vetoing the bill for college of medicine at East Tennessee State University, and

Continued on Page 7

6

Some old memories from a long and joyful political life.

n See BUD WILLIS, 34

Johnson City, TN. --- In 1910, the doors swung open at the new fangled Kress 5, 10, and 25 cent department store in the heart of downtown that eventually became Main Street Antiques & Mercantile when downtown depart-ment stores in the 1970s abandoned Main Streets all over America for something new called “The Mall.”

Downtown Johnson City was primed to develop according to Main Street Antique store owner Malcolm Blowers, after the first Johnson City bank was built in the late 1880s near Fountain Square.

Kress architects were perched in downtown New York City designing buildings that fit into the indigenous surroundings of downtowns all over America, Blowers explained. “At the time, Kress was the ‘Big Box’ store,” Blowers said. “The design of the stores included large windowed fronts for window shopping and they sold a bit of everything, hence the 5, 10, 25 cent stores that soon become known as five and dimes.”

Blowers said Kress was one of the first department stores that utilized a “visual merchandising” approach to American’s Main Streets in its store fronts and once inside the candy coun-ter and soda fountain “became quite popular,” he said. Automobiles would meander slowly past the Kress Building and others as passengers would gaze at the fancy and elaborate store front dis-plays.

Kress managers would post signs saying, “Watch Our Windows” as teas-ers for future sales or new product offer-ings. Today, we get those messages from colorful inserts in local newspapers or through ads placed in popular maga-zine publications like Out ‘N About Magazine.

“In the 1950s traffic flowed through downtown both ways,” Blowers ob-served. “When the (business) movement headed to the north side of town and a decision was made to make downtown

streets one way (traffic) that was a mor-tal blow to activity downtown.”

Still, Blowers says business has re-mained quite good for the ten years he has promoted his business as a down-town anchor mainly because of the unique and rare to find items he stocks within his 27,000 square foot store that boosts three floors of incredibly interest-ing items from around the world at sur-prising affordable prices.

“Our goal is to give our customers an uncommon range of interesting and useful merchandise at the best prices available,” Blowers proclaims in his store brochure. His son, and partner

Mark, is on the road constantly looking for quality items at reasonable prices for would-be customers.

“We have an array of high quality antique furniture, handmade Persian Rugs, collectibles, hard-to-find and un-common merchandise, that you can’t find any other place in the Tri-Cities,” Blowers said matter-of-factly. “We feature gifts from around the world, English Armoires, side tables, solid oak tables and so on. Our inventory changes weekly and while we are an antique store . . . we offer so much more.”

Blowers keeps his prices affordable by purchasing trunk loads of upscale furniture including leather items and handcrafted woods, unique desks and trunks from all over the world. “Solid wood tables are a popular item with customers,” he observed.

Proud of his repeat business and returning customers, Blowers proudly displays one customer’s testimonial:

“We just saved $10,000 on a high quality Sarouk Persian Rug,” said Ann and Bob Pierson from Atlanta in one of the store’s ads.

And, who knows? Plans by city lead-ers to return downtown to two lane roads may bring back the window shopping from the car an ever so popular pastime decades ago.


Cut the Cake!Main Street Antiques & Mercantile is 100 Years Old

Main Street Antiques & Mercantile243 East Main Street

Johnson City, TN 37604423-926-0161

HYPERLINK “http://www.antiquesandmercantile.com” www.antiquesandmercantile.com

Blowers stands inside an antique bar.

The store is full of interesting antiques including European, Chinese and American Furniture.

Store owner Malcolm

Blowers is pictured next to one of the huge hand-crafted rugs

he sells. A solid oak table top sits on display.

As a restaurant owner and chef Mo Aliabadi has intensity in his eyes, a passion in the kitchen and a genuine love for creating great food for his customers.

Perhaps, because of him, Johnson City’s best kept secret is out of the bag as Alta Cucina is rapidly become the choice of diners all over the Tri-Cities who are looking for an exquisite dining experience in a romantic atmosphere.

Aliabadi opened his Italian restaurant 15 years ago and he recently completed an expan-sion to the outdoor patio. Understandably, ‘Mo’ is proud of, “presenting incredible food, great wine and good service at a reasonable price.”

Every dish that is served at Alta Cucina’s is not only authentic but made from the best fresh ingredients available. This is not a chain restaurant and this is not fast food. And, from beginning to end, you will realize this throughout your dining experience.

The piping hot bread that is offered as an introduction to your meal along with a dipping bowl consisting of fresh olive oil, parsley and herbs is to die for. No dish is “pre-made” at Alta Cucina and entrées consist of only the best cuts of meat, free-range

chicken, and the freshest choices of fish, veal and pork. The best available organic vegetables are used in all en-

trées and meals are “always fresh and cooked to order,” says Chef Mo. Alta Cucina also enjoys the distinction of being the premier top seller of wines in the Tri-

Cities. So, with a night out and a good meal in front of you, you’ll also find one of the most extensive varieties of wines in the Tri-Cities at Alta Cucina.

In fact, Chef Mo’s wine and dinner tastings sell out time and time again. “Our next wine tasting and first-class dinner will be at the end of this month,” Mo reports. “It’s always a fun time among family and friends who enjoy a wine tasting coupled with some of the best food you’ll ever taste as a compliment to the many varieties of wines that we offer with the four course dinner.”

With a cozy and elegant atmosphere as a back drop to some of the most picturesque scen-ery of beautiful mountain vistas just outside the restaurant’s windows, Mo is very passionate

about presenting food the way it is intended to be enjoyed.

“When I cook from my heart, I only use the best of ingredients: Fresh beef, poultry, and the popular Catch of the Day. It means when you visit Alta Cucina you deserve all that and then some,” he said.

Not one to brag, when investigating what people are saying about his restaurant, one patron posted boldly on City Search this message: “Alta Cucina is by far the best Italian Restaurant in Johnson City. Don’t even bother with the chain restaurants. When you visit Alta Cucina, you will find incred-ible food, great wine and good service.”

Mo’s exquisite dining experience in a roman-tic atmosphere offering high quality cuisine had him offering this reporter his personal opinion about his restaurant:

“All I ask is for you to relax. Forget the of-fice and your problems. Sit back, have a glass of wine and enjoy the moment. Take your time and enjoy your food. After all, dining here means you are doing something nice for yourself,” he said

August 2010

Alta Cucina: Johnson City’s Foremost Exquisite & Romantic Dinning Experience

ALTA CUCINA FACTOID

1200 North Roan StreetJohnson City, TN

Phone: 423-928-2092Hours: Monday through Sunday 11

a.m. until 2:30 p.m. for lunch; 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. for dinner.

Live music presented on Friday and Saturday nights.

Can accommodate parties up to 100. Offers 500 varieties of wine.

MO ALIABADI FACTOID

Became an American citizen in New York eventually moving to Johnson City. Has two children, Rachael, 18, and Chef Kamran, 19 both of whom

work beside him every day. Enjoys hiking and walking, poker

and good wine. Pushes all his young wait staff to get college degrees.

Most do and come back frequently for lunch or dinner.

The friendly wait staff

Mo’s son, Chef KamranFree entertainment is featured on weekends

Daytime Tri-CitiesMorgan King & Amy Lynn Brighten Up Our Mornings

Johnson City, TN. --- It’s hard to believe this month marks the 2rd anniversary of the hugely popular Daytime Tri-Cities show featuring Morgan King and Amy Lynn. I mean, weren’t they always laughing and carrying on at 10 a.m. every morning?

“We started out as a half hour show,” Morgan said matter-of-factly as he perused the local newspapers in preparation for going on the air one Thursday morning last month. “We (he and co-host Amy Lynn) just clicked and pretty soon they offered us an hour slot which required the station to hire Toby Laek, our producer because there is so much more involved in an hour-long show,” he said. “During our audition segment it was like we were never apart and we were meant to do this show,” Amy added pointing out that she and Morgan had previously worked together at another local television sta-tion. “It has gone by so fast it really doesn’t seem like two years. We enjoy what we do and it seems like an hour goes by really fast. ..’Most of the time’” Morgan interjects with a devilish smile and a wink.

Indeed. Putting together Daytime Tri-Cities might look simple enough to the average viewer but hours are spent each day behind the scenes planning the show, choosing the guests, and writ-ing and editing the segments. “I don’t think people realize how much work goes into each and every

show,” Morgan reflects. “The graphics, the rundowns, the research and all the preparations take hours to develop just one show,” he said. “And, because the show is somewhat unscripted . . . we just roll with it,” Amy revealed. Both added that parts of their roles revolve around making guests feel comfortable and, “We’re here to help you out if you’re a little nervous,” both said almost in unison.

You get your money’s worth if you watch Daytime Tri-Cities and you just might learn something. In fact, in a week’s time of shows, 35-40 stories are featured or an average of seven to eight segments per hour. It’s great TV and because of the content, seemingly never boring. The day of our visit, for example, Morgan and Amy featured segments on Kingsport’s Fun Fest, Mahoney’s camping, Kristi Slaughter, the Gluten Free Guru’s food segment, local bottler Dr. Enuf, Appalachian Reggae, a science experiment, feature on a Morristown exotic animal park and an interview with Teresa Treadway, vice-president of Creative Energy. All sprinkled in with plenty of laughs in-between.

“It’s all local stories and it is quite fast-paced and interesting and I think that’s why the hour goes by so fast,” Morgan said of the show’s mission.

Besides their Daytime Tri-Cities morning gig, Amy and Morgan can be seen throughout the region promoting their show that is carried locally on News Channel 11. “We make a lot of personal appearances at parades, community events etc. and we enjoy being involved (away from the studio) Amy said with her signature smile. “We also have been on the road to Tampa, Memphis, Orlando, Sevierville, and Abingdon.” Other venues outside the Tri-Cities are on the drawing board soon as the duo will be displaced for a few weeks while a new set is constructed and News Channel 11 goes high definition.

Amy, recently married to Jon Henry at Maple Lane Farms, another Out ‘N About Magazine favorite stop, tells a funny story about viewers perception about she and Morgan. “We’re not married but people think we are and they will come up to us all the time and say, ‘I can’t believe you just missed Morgan.’” Or from Morgan, “We saw Amy here or there; where were you?” “We’re not joined at the hip you know,” Amy laughs.

Will they ever run out of stories to tell? Not hardly.

“It’s quite amazing to me what all we have to offer right here in our own back yard,” Morgan said

in conclusion. For example, there is a gem mine in Blountville. . .I didn’t know that.”We didn’t either but now we do. And the stories will just keep coming. So tune in. We guarantee you learn something

useful and have a hardy laugh or two to boot!

Facts About Morgan King Facts About Amy Lynn (Henry)• LivedwiththeAmishforayear.• IsfromHutchinson,Minnesota.• PlaysBassguitaratCornerstoneChurch.• Recentlymarried.• Oncehadamnesia.• Lovestubingonarealakes.


Amy and Morgan on the set

Amy and Morgan before the show airs

Morgan just being Morgan

Behind the camera at Daytime Tri-Cities

August 2010

With a name like Left of Blue, they are sure to take music out of the box. Bring your dancing

shoes and let's cut a rug to the tunes of Duke Ellington and more. "All Of Me, After You've

Gone, Sweet Georgia Brown, Satin Doll, Don't Get Around Much Anymore" and more... 'Cause

"It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing, Doo wah,_doo wah, doo wah, doo wha, doo

wah, __doo wah, doo wah, doo wah!

Left of Blue has performed across the High Country and beyond. We have played at the Blue

Plum Festival, Rhythm & Roots Reunion, The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, The Mast

Farm Inn, Banner Elk Winery, Highlands Jazz Festival, Machiavelli’s, O’ Mainnins Pub, Java

J’s, Pepper’s, Zuzda’s, Glendale Springs Inn, Jefferson Landing, and many others.


Turn to page 25 for answers to the Crossword

and Sudoku Puzzles

Erwin, TN --- Unicoi County Sheriff Kent Harris is putting people to work under a government partner-ship program aimed at not only helping the sheriff’s department, but at the same time helping partici-pants learn new skills.

Jessie Hoyle is one of a dozen people that Harris has working at the Unicoi County Sheriff Depart-ment. Hoyle works as a greeter 20 hours a week at the minimum wage compensation rate. “She is the first person you meet when you arrive at the (sher-iff’s) department,” Harris explained. “We have two other greeters that take turns in four hour shifts. She is a real asset to the department because she can field questions out front and then send the person to the right staff person within the department eliminat-ing a lot of extra work on our small office staff. It frees them up to do a lot of other things. Jessie is the sweetest person you’ll ever meet and she brightens up our day.”

Harris has his new part-time employees doing a variety of tasks. Some work out in the county with

road crews cleaning cemeteries and collecting trash while others work in the parks or inside the office of the sheriff’s department.

“It’s been a real successful program,” Harris said. “Some people in the program will learn secretarial skills by operating a computer and other office equip-ment that ultimately could lead to a good paying job in the private sector. I have noticed we have attracted many high-caliber people to the program who are on fixed incomes or have been retired for ten years or more (which is a program requirement) and still have something to contribute to the community.”

Harris’ department is the largest participant in the government sponsored works program. “It’s been very successful and people can still apply. You have to meet certain income requirements, be a resident of the county and you have to be on a fixed-income or disabled. It’s a really neat program that helps people in need by giving them an opportunity to earn some extra money and at the same time perform a service to their community.”

Unicoi County Sheriff putting people to work

Unicoi County Sheriff Kent Harris and Jessie Hoyle

Elizabethton, TN --- Bill and Tammy Taylor’s story is quite easy and simple to tell. They just wanted to start a friendly hometown business designed around helping people in need of shipping packages, sending faxes, making copies, collecting their mail as well as providing and performing a variety of business tasks centered on a friendly business-like atmosphere.

That’s when they began to investigate a partnership with UPS (United Parcel Service) or to many of us. . .the Big Brown Truck company. Having dealt personally with the need for doing business away from home, becoming a franchisee, or partnership, with UPS made perfect sense to the Taylors as many of their friends, colleagues, and

business associates encouraged them to help the “road warriors” (who every day are in a hurry to complete shipping, mailing, faxing and other office related tasks that must be taken care of while they are away from their respective offices or homes) find a comfortable, easy-to-get-to location to do business away from home.

“We offer a professional atmosphere where you can come in and multi-task and not be in a hurry,” Tammy Taylor

explained. “And, we offer an array of products and services in one location which eliminates the need for customers to run all over town to get their printing, coping, packing and shipping tasks done. We’re here to service the needs of everyone whether you need to obtain a secure mailbox, get a document notarized, make copies and send faxes or have something packed and shipped,” Bill Taylor added.

When the Taylors opened the brand new UPS store on Elk Avenue on March 15th, their dream became a reality. But not before a lot of hard work, dedication and planning that began six months before.

After all, one simply does not just open the door and welcome customers into a relatively new services opportunity, without dedication and knowledge which the Taylors obtained through UPS’ rigorous six week professional training classes.

Many people will be surprised to know that the UPS store provides an unbelievable long list of materials and services that includes:

• Packing&Shipping• LuggageBoxesfor Shipping instead of Checking your bag at the airport• Black&Whiteand Color Copies• Laminating• Binding• SpecialtyPapers• HIGHvolumecopy jobs; no job too big or small• PackingSupplies:Boxes,tape,Labels, Foam Peanuts or Bubble Wrap• PackingServices:Crating,Cartonizing,andFragilePackages• MailboxesforResidentialandBusinessCustomers;Streetaddressfor receiving parcels, private and secure.• PostalServices• FaxingServices• NotaryonSite• Architecturalprintingofplansanddocumentavailable• Fingerprintingservicesforgovernmentworkers,military,educatorsand gun permit applicants.

The UPS Store

106 Broad StreetElizabethton, TN 37643Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Saturday 9 a.m.-2p.m.Phone: 423-543-1227; Fax: 423-543-1764

Go by and see the Taylorstoday. We think you’ll enjoy a wonderful, professional experi-ence from them and their pro-fessionally trained staff.

New UPS store offers relaxed and friendly office setting away from home

August 2010

Bill Taylor at the private mail box center inside the new UPS store located at 106 Broad Street in Elizabethton

Bill and Tammy Taylor outside The UPS Store in Elizabethton that they opened in March.

The Taylors inside The UPS Store where banners tout the many services available.

UPS store clerk Ruth Carver assists Debra Mahone with a purchase .

ERWIN, TN. – Brian Glover, the President of Health+Homecare, isn’t your typical healthcare provider. In fact, patient care beats out profit every time. And, Glover, a self-made highly success-ful businessman is proud of that fact.

“I’m more interested in providing the necessary needs to our patients first and foremost while working out the pay-ment source later,” Glover said. “I’m very proud of the fact that we meet the needs of our patients first while many other companies seemingly investigate finances first.”

Since 2005, when he first started his business, Glover’s philosophy of serving his clients and his personal entrepre-neurial spirit has certainly paid off in a big way. And, he expects his employees to maintain the same “take care of the needs of patient first” approach to the health and homecare business.

Glover’s career began years ago at another home health care company where for a time he paid his dues, so-to-speak, working long hours for $6 an hour. “I’m proud that I really came from nothing and by working hard I’ve been able to become successful in this busi-ness,” Glover said after some prodding. “I got out there and did what was neces-sary, I worked hard, learned a business I love, and now I am living the American Dream as a successful entrepreneur.

“However, at the same time I have never steered away from our company’s mission which is to provide the highest quality home medical equipment, ser-vices, supplies, training and education to our patients and caregivers.”

Even though Health+Homecare is based in Erwin, anyone needing its ser-vices throughout the region may choose to do so. And, a medical service techni-cian is on call 24/7 and Glover pledges that in less than 10 minutes someone will return your call after hours.

“We are here to meet the needs of the regional community and to let patients know that they indeed have a choice when it comes to home health care,” Glover points out. From all over the Tri-

Cities to Southwest Virginia and into Western North Carolina, I have discov-ered that rural health care needs are un-derserved. We provide an alternative to meet those needs that are currently not being met,” he said. “We come to your home, at your convenience to evaluate and recommend which products are best for your healthcare,” Glover added. “I personally guarantee an excellent expe-rience.”

Civically minded, Glover takes his free time and invests back into the com-munity including serving on the Board of Directors of the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce, CHIPS (an organization that assists women and families sub-jected to domestic violence), the Profes-sional Advisory Council of Unicoi County Hospital and he purchased defibrillator equipment for the Erwin Police Depart-ment after personally being involved in a serious automobile accident.

“I asked myself one day how can I make a difference in my community? And, the answer I got was to get in-volved,” he said with a smile. “I have discovered that if you do the right thing . . .do your best to support your commu-nity then, by word of mouth people will believe in you and you will be successful. I’m living proof of that.”

Glover also discussed the “good ‘ole days” philosophy versus the trend in to-day’s’ market. The way to get business

used to center around good service, us-ing cutting edge technology and high quality American made products. It was when a friendly, knowledgeable staff go-ing the extra mile mattered most. Glover says this was when there was, “an even playing field and truer competition.” He said today’s market is vastly different and is heavily slanted in the direction of who owns what.

“What I mean by that is patients don’t often realize that many hospitals and doctors’ offices now also have ownership in medical equipment companies. This means that unless a patient asks for a local company like mine, they are often getting filtered through another business owned by who they are seeing.” Glover said it is very hard to compete in this type of market. “If I could leave people with one idea, it would be support your local business and ask for Health and Homecare. We will earn your business and your trust.”

August 2010

Brian Glover’s Erwin-based Health+Homecare Service

Provides Compassionate Care to Patients in Need 24/7

Brian Glover Facts:He’s big into hunting and fishing

especially Wild Boar hunting in Georgia.

He (sometimes) rides a Harley Davidson Motorcycle and loves Hot Rods.

He once owned a pharmacy and sold it to a national chain.He’s married to Kinli and they have two daughters,

Kali & Kamrin.

Health+Homecare629 North Main Avenue

Erwin, TN.Phone: 423-743-5090;

Fax: 423-743-23309a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

On call: 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

A wide variety of home healthcare items from power chairs, walkers and diabetic shoes, are stocked in the retail store.

Mr. Glover fields a question via telephone in his office.

Brian Glover, outside his Health+Homecare’s

facility in Erwin.

August 2010


Jonathan Houser (423) 895‐0321 – [email protected]

Amos Halava (423) 302‐0713 – [email protected]

The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.

Watauga Falls a Premier Lakeside community, nestled in

the heart of Cherokee National Forest and Watauga Lake.

Views of breathtaking waterfalls throughout this luxuri‐

ous private gated community, wooded lots, underground

utilities, lake views and private marina with covered boat

slips available. Each cabin is custom designed, deco‐

rated, custom indoor water features and uniquely la‐

beled and named such as Deer Walk, Castle Rayn, Tree

House, Gunthers Rest, Driftwood, etc. to fit the cabins

description. Life has never been better!

Watauga FallsWatauga Falls

www.wataugafalls.com

www.driftwoodbuild.com

www.wataugalake‐property.com

www.johnsoncityhomes‐land.com

Nestled at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, Butler Tennessee offers the most popular gateway to the beautiful Watauga

Lake. The pace is unhurried. The natural wonder of the Cherokee National Forest is most inspiring and each season brings with it a

wheel of vibrant colors and sensory delight. Add to that, an array of things to do and see, and you have one of the most popular vaca‐

tion getaways in the country. This rustic environment led to the joining of several great people who bring their individual gifts together

and provide a friendly business relationship to anyone looking to locate in the area. Jonathan Houser has run a very successful commer‐

cial and residential landscape company, River Gardens, for the last 23 years. His vision led to the creation of the Watauga Falls subdivi‐

sion in 2006. Jonathan has artfully carved out of the mountain a wonderful rustic retreat complete with gated entrances, waterfalls, log

cabins, exceptional boating facilities and an unspoiled natural environment where you can completely relax and unwind. Partially

bounded by the National Forest insures the ultimate in privacy and seclusion. His partnership with Watauga Falls Real Estate has led two

associate Real Estate Agents into an exclusive team. Lisa Potter and Marty Plummer are two of the most sought after Agents at Watauga

Lake. Both are fully Licensed Agents and are truly dedicated to meeting and exceeding their clients’ needs making them one of the most

Dynamic Teams in Real Estate. Jonathan also partnered with Amos Halava in the creation of Driftwood Builders. With this company he

has expanded the dynamic of all involved to offer the best Land and Home packages available. Having the best knowledge of the area

and knowing all the players gives Lisa and Marty the ability to custom fit property to your dream without killing your budget. Jonathan

and Amos will go thru the entire process of designing and building the house that you can call home or your ‘home’ away from home.

Driftwood Builders specializes in custom homes and works diligently to communicate openly with you to keep you updated on each step

taken during the building process. If you do not live in the area they provide an internet album with pictures taken several times a week

to keep you involved. With this experience combined you can be assured that your lake home will be a smooth and friendly experience.

We look forward to enhancing lives one dream at a time.

Lisa Potter Office 423‐335‐1949

Marty Plummer Office 423‐768‐5217

Office 423‐768‐3333

August 2010

“Where America Meets”

August 23rd to August 28th

Admission & Ride SpecialsSchool Day

Monday, Aug 23Thru high school admitted free until 6:00 p.m.

Senior Americans DayThursday, Aug 26

$4.00 for Seniors 60 & over

TN Family Community Education Clubs DayThursday, Aug 26

Free Admission with FCE Card until 6:00 p.m.

ETSU Pride DayFriday, August 27th

UT Extension CentennialCelebration & 4-H Reunion

Saturday, August 28th @ 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 28thOne-Hour Free Admission & One-Hour Free Rides From

10:00 am - 11:00 am

ADMISSION FEESGeneral Admission - $8.00

Children 6-11 - $3.00Children 5 & under - Free when attended by an adult

Buildings open Monday through Friday3:00 p.m. and close at 10:00 p.m.

Buildings open Saturday10:00 a.m. and close at 10:00 p.m.

Season Ticket, for Three Days - $18.00 Season Ticket, for Six Days - $36.00

Parking Season Pass - $10.00Exhibitors of Livestock - $8.00

Grandstand Entertainment - Free with gate admission

Main Stage Reserved Seating, Half Price Ride Tickets,and Season Tickets by Advance Sale Only

Contact the Fair Ticket Office Regarding Advance Credit Card TicketPurchases (423-477-1420) beginning July 31st.

Main Stage EntertainmentTickets Go On Sale on Saturday,

July 31st @ 9:00 a.m.(423) 477-1420

DANNY GOKEYMonday, August 23rd • 8:00 p.m.“My Best Days Are Ahead Of Me”

JARON AND THELONG ROAD TO LOVE

Tuesday, August 24th • 8:00 p.m.“Pray For You”

KEVIN FOWLERTuesday, August 24th (Following Jaron)

“Pound Sign (#?*!)”

COLT FORDWednesday, August 25th • 8:00 p.m.

“Chicken and Biscuits”

DAVID NAILThursday, August 26th • 8:00 p.m.

“Turning Home”“Red Light”

TROY OLSENSaturday, August 28th • 8:00 p.m.

“Summer Thing”

Foreclosures are on the rise!! But not to worry! Prices are leveling themselves out from the rapidly growing increase

we experienced in the early 2000’s. Yes it is difficult to understand how this is good; but if this didn’t happen when it

did; we could have been in a greater hurt down the road. It was an obvi-ous that was going to happen!! How-ever; most people were just so eager to “own a home”; that they would do anything to do so.

Banks started allowing 80/20 Loans; Adjustable Rate Mortgages;

and Stated Income Mortgages; these were loans available before; but to a very restricted amount of buyers. Banks used to be pretty restricted; and then all of a sudden; loans became readily available to just about anyone!! This also opened up the opportunity for Loan and bank fraud opportunities. How do you stay away from foreclosure? 1) Make your payments on time. Never pay your loan payment past 30 days. The

lenders start seriously looking at your loan to start foreclosure if you become 60 days late; and at 90 days late; it is too late. You are there for sure. They don’t want to fore-close on you!! They have too much cost involved and will cost them more to fore-close on you than you think. 2) When get-ting a loan; put money down. If you can; at least 20%. This keeps you from having a PMI added to your payment; which is a Mortgage Insurance to help protect the

bank in case of a foreclosure. 3)When getting a loan; don’t get any loan that isn’t an FHA, VA, or Conventional type “Fixed” Loan….NO “Variable Rate Loans” …80/20 loans; Adjustable Rate Mortgages, Stated Income Loans. Never speculate that your income will increase down the road; buy your homing looking into the “What can I do now” attitude; as we never know what the future holds; as we all have seen from the last 3 years of home prices falling.


Take Advantage of Tennessee’s TAX FREE weekend with our back to school low interest loan of only 6% for up to one year!

Get those necessary items for your kids returning to school including: * School Supplies * Back packs * Clothes * Computer/electronic items * Accessories

Let us take the worry out of your school shopping during the tax free weekend that starts August 6th through August 9th!

Celebrating 77 years of service to our members in Carter County.

Car loans start at only 3.90% fi nancing! (Credit restrictions apply).All deposits are Federally Insured up to $250,000 by NCUA.

Come See our friendly staff. At Happy Valley Credit Union, We’re Just Like Family and we are here for you!

Happy Valley Credit Union“Not for Profi t, Not for Charity, But for Service”

Location: East C Street, Elizabethton, TN 37643Phone: (423) 542-6078 Fax: (423) 542-3691

Pam Rhymer

Pam’s Real Estate Watch904 Sunset Drive

Ste 1, Johnson City, TN 37604 (423) 282-0432

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

5 Minutes from Bristol Motor Speedway, Lot 41, Glen Haven, Bluff

City. MLS#288087, $44,900.

15 Minutes from Bristol Motor Speedway, Rich Valley Road, Bristol,

VA. MLS#287406 $90,000

10 Minutes from Bristol Motor Speedway, 595 Weaver Branch Road,

Bluff City, MLS#287400, $79,900

5 Minutes from Bristol Motor Speedway, 4216 Lakefront Lane,

Bristol, TN. MLS#293571 $34,900

LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY

DURING THE BMS RACES? LET ME KNOW!!

I HAVE OWNERS WILLING TO LEASE THEIR HOMES TO YOU!!

10 Minutes from Bristol Motor Speedway605 Weaver Branch Road, Bluff City,

MLS#287398, $79,900

August 2010

I L L N A T A L S H EC U E E P O X Y T O PE R A S P O O R A W ED E N O T E N I M B L E

R E A M C U BC A B G L A D G I V EA G E G E N I I N I LT O F U D I A L G E M

A S S A B L ET A L E N T E N M E S HO I L I R A T E R H OO D E P A R I S G O OT E N S P E C S S O T

5 8 7 4 2 3 9 1 69 4 6 7 5 1 2 8 32 3 1 9 8 6 4 5 74 7 5 1 6 8 3 9 21 2 8 3 9 7 5 6 43 6 9 5 4 2 1 7 87 1 4 8 3 5 6 2 98 9 2 6 1 4 7 3 56 5 3 2 7 9 8 4 1

Bristol, TN. – It’s a Thursday night at the Country Club Bar & Grill and chants of “Benny, Benny, Benny” permeate through the high ceiling dance floor as patrons wait for Benny Wilson and his band to take the stage.

It’s hard to believe that Wilson, who started a band in the 6th grade back in 1964, is as much as a rocker on the local scene as band members half his age. He doesn’t seem to mind the comparison however.

“I guess it’s a compliment that I’m still perform-ing about 150 shows a year after all these years,” he says with a grin. “I mean I just love this; always have.”

Wilson’s musical enthusiasm, upbeat personal-ity along with a high energy band saw him shoot up in popularity in the 1970s and that situation has yet to change.

“Staying current with the latest music and presenting a good, live entertaining show is, I think, the key to my success,” he said.

“And, don’t ever discount the contribution of the band; without them I couldn’t do what I do every night.”

In the 1980s Wilson performed with many country acts at the Country Club Bar & Grill, (the Hitching Post back then)

including a rising Country star by the name of Janie Fricke.

From Bob Segar to ACDC to James Taylor, Benny has sung them all and still does.

From birthdays to new club openings to anniversaries and wed-dings, he’s performed at every place, situ-ation and venue you can imagine.

“You have to keep up with the times and roll with the flow so-to-speak,” he advised.

“Music and performing seems to change al-most daily and you have to keep up with what

the general public wants to hear.”Benny’s a rocker at heart and much of his live

performances over the last 25 years shows his love for rock-n-roll. But he also still sings gospel at the Methodist church he attends.

“I think I’m just a good ‘ole country boy at heart,” he said with a laugh. “Get me a good band and we’ll all have a good ‘ole time. . .singing …laughing and dancing. I love en-tertaining and I get a real satisfaction know-ing there are still people out there who want to hear me perform and I have made a lifetime of friends.”

When not performing, Benny enjoys spending time with his 5 year-old son, Charlie. And, if you get the opportunity go out and see Benny Wilson and his band perform its well worth the good time you’ll have!

There are thousands of people in the Tri-Cities and beyond who will attest to that!


Benny Wilson: Still Rockin’ and Rollin’ Since 1964

Benny with good friends Andy Bland & Michelle Smith Gibson.

Benny in concert at Bristol Country Club & Grill.

August 2010

A Hotel as Special as Your Events

• 90 Spacious Rooms• Reunions

• Dinners up to 40 People• Bridal Luncheons

• Special Event Room Rates

4025 Hamilton Place, Johnson City, TN 37604

423.262.0275www.courtyard.com/trijc

OUT & ABOUT MAGAZINE SAYS

SUPPORT YOUR


What many had consid-ered as one of the best kept secrets for great food, music and fun, Machiavelli’s on 5th Street in Bristol has turned into the premier Bristol night spot after dark. But that’s not all. It has also become one of the most popular places in Bristol for lunch and dinner as well.

Tucked a few blocks away from Bristol’s bus-tling State Street, Machia-velli’s presents an Italian menu suitable for any-one’s taste. From its signa-ture selection of gourmet pizzas (one even boasts 28 toppings!) to pasta dishes, grinders, pitas, and calzones, complimented by an array of appetizers, soups, salads and des-serts, we guarantee you won’t leave hungry. And, kids can eat for only $5.95 which includes a drink and ice cream.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT MACHIAVELLI’S

“I come here several times a week because the food is awesome and the atmosphere is something me and my friends and family enjoy,” said Tom-my Garland as he listened to Ivy Road.

“It’s a really friendly and upbeat place to be. Plus, it’s only a short drive from Johnson City,” Carol Anderson from Bristol add-ed. “There always seems to be something exciting going on here whether it’s a great live band or drink and food specials which in this day and time are a consideration when you do a night on the town.”

•August6---Spank•August7---Closed/PrivateParty•August12---BrimLeal•August13---ToBeAnnounced•August14---FolkSoulRevival•August19---1st Annual Rhythm & Family Race Day

Bands Begin@ 3 p.m.Oddly Well. Annabelle’s Curse. The Hay Boys. These Undowners. Bush Pickle.

•August20---LocalMusicJam

•August21---Openat1p.m. Closingat9p.m.•August26---BrimLeal•August27---TheHotSeats; withWiseOldRiver(openingact)•August28---Closed/PrivateParty

Hours: Sunday 4 p.m. -12 a.m.; Monday, Closed; Tuesday, Wednesday,

& Thursday 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Friday 11 a.m. -2 a.m.

Saturday 4 p.m. – 2 a.m.

August Music Line-Up At Machiavelli’s

The Buccaneer faithful know four-year letterwinner Siarre Evans as one of the best basketball players to don the Blue and Gold for the past four years. However, behind all the accolades and monstrous numbers put up is an eye-opening story of how Siarre became who she is today.

Growing up in GriGrowing up in Griffin, Ga., wasn’t always easy for the two-time Atlantic Sun Player of the Year. With drugs and gun violence surrounding her home, Siarre had two options- get an athletic scholarship and help her family out or stay, get a minimum wage job, and endure all the violence that was taking place.

“Once I began playing“Once I began playing AAU ball, I started to appreciate the game a little more,” Evans said. “It really never hit me that basketball may be my way out of Griffin, until my teammates and coaches told me I could receive a scholarship and play in college.”

With the support of her mother, grandmother, coaches, and friends, Siarre was determined to go to college and become the first person in her family to walk across the stage and receive a degree.

After guiding the Lady Bucs to three consecutive NCAAfter guiding the Lady Bucs to three consecutive NCAA Tournaments and becoming only the third player in school history to record over 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds in a career, Evans hopes to reward her family and give back to ETSU by playing the game she loves overseas.

“My number one goal has always been to play professionally after I graduate. I “My number one goal has always been to play professionally after I graduate. I also want to be able to move my mother way from the violence. My nieces, nephews, and cousin also mean a lot to me so I want to help by giving them a chance,” she said.

One of the few things on Evans’ agenda is to open an after-school program back in Griffin that is designed to keep children away from violence and help them concentrate on their education while playing athletic activities.

Thanks to Coach Karen Kemp and BASA, Evans was given the opportunity at Thanks to Coach Karen Kemp and BASA, Evans was given the opportunity at ETSU, which is what made her become who she is today. Not only will Siarre be remembered as one of the greatest players to come through this program, but she is a great leader, person and role model.

Getting to know....Siarre Evans

GO BUCS!!!

August 2010

RENEWSOCCERSEASON TICKETS 2DAY!!!

ETSU Athletics

Ticket Office

439-3878

SOC10-19 $5.00 SOC10-19 ETSU MEN’S SOCCER GENERAL vs. NORTH CAROLINA ADMISSION Saturday, October 30th - 7:00pm Summers-Taylor Stadium $5.00Date/Time Subject to Change - Tax Included in Price GENERA GENERAL ADMISSION


August 2010

It’s NOT your ole timey Moose Lodge

15605 Porterfi eld HighwayP.O. Box 321

Abingdon, VA 24212-0312

Full restaurant with Awesome food

Spacious outdoor patio

Partnered with EZ Horseplay

Newly Remodeled

Family Activities: Billards, darts

Open 7 days a weekTic Tack Dough on Wednesdays

beginning at 5 p.m.

Now presenting Para Mutualwagering with 12 NEW bettingscreens and 6 Flat TV Screens

Instant Cash Programs Available

Karaoke Friday’s at 8 p.m.

Bingo Game Nights:Sunday ($1000 jackpot)

Thursday ($500 jackpot)*All regular games win: $100 per game*When 100 people attend, Jackpot is $1000

Food, Fun, Friendship New Members Welcome

Offi ce Phone: 276.628.2756 Social Quarters: 276.628.2764

Washington County Moose Family Center

Bristol, TN. --- Erwin’s Bill Gaines has not seen a NASCAR fan he didn’t like. But, 20 years ago he would not have ever imagined that a hilly, rocky, 113 acre tract of land that’s been in his family for years would have ever turned out to be one of the most popular places for NASCAR fans to camp and park their vehicles during race weekends at Bristol Motor Speedway and Thunder Valley Drag Strip.

In fact, Gaines’ campground is the largest around.

The animated former long time Unicoi County Property Assessor is quick to credit his wife and partner Ruth, with the necessary drive to take a grown up piece of land consisting of hundreds of acres and turn it into something livable for campers visiting from all over the United States at Bristol’s NASCAR races s twice a year.

“Ruth is the catalyst when it comes to beautifying our campground,” Gaines said of his wife. “It is pushing ninety degrees today but she is still over there putting down mulch.”

Ruth isn’t the only family member who helps get the campground and parking areas ready for the thousands of race fans who converge on Bristol twice a year for the NASCAR races, (as well as the annual fall NHRA drag rac-ing event), Bill and Ruth’s daughter, Kristen, and son-in-law Roger also

pitch in.“We treat people the way you would

want to be treated,” Bill said matter-of-factly. “We treat people the Tennessee way which is to say, ‘Show up. Pay up. Go to your appointed site and have a good time!’” he said with a smile.

With 2,700 camp sites, Bill says his popular campground basically turns into a small city twice a year. “It’s like family. Many of the same people re-turn year after year. There are a lot of comradely and new friendships made here.

Historically, Gaines really never in-tended to be in the camping business. “It really happened by accident when

some people came onto the property and camped in our field. The next year we had 17 campers and there was no water or electricity.”

Bill said Ruth became the “explorer and developer” and even once broke a commercial lawnmower while creat-ing more parking areas. “We have one place called the Corn Patch and its way far back at the end of the property. But, believe it or not, people actually request to be there,” he said with a laugh. “My family and I are proud of being able to turn the place into something remark-ably beautiful. Sure, it’s been a lot of work but we get a lot of enjoyment in return. . .year after year. ”


Gaines spends a lot of time on the phone with race fans.

Erwin’s Bill Gaines promotes friendly campground facilities to NASCAR fans, their families & friends

Gaines is constantly upgrading his web site.

An aerial view of Bristol Campgrounds & Parking.

Bristol Campground & Event Parking

Highway 394 Across from Copperhead Road on the left

after you turn onto Speedway Drive.

One Rule: Be A Good Neighbor!Camping only

$160 including tax for the entire race week.

Food, ice, and NASCAR merchandise available on site.

Campfires permitted.Golf carts welcome.

Generators permitted.Portalets located throughout

the campground.Free water.

Free shuttles. PHONE: 423-743-5219 (Night)

423-341-3022 (Cell)Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:info@

bristolcampground.com” [email protected]

Website: www.bristolcampground.com

August 2010


n Continued from 11

Bud Willis

raised,” he says with a laugh.His wife, Janet, has been at his side and

shared the decades of involvement. A former chair-man of the Washington County Republi-can Women, she is a member of the Washing-ton County Election Commission.

And, even though they are not as active as their parents, Willis is pleased that his chil-dren – Wes, and his wife, Lisa; Anne, and her husband, Phillip Patrick; Lydia; and Blaine, and his fiance, Meg Eason – “are all very patriotic. They all vote, and never miss.

“I’ve told my own children, just like I would tell anyone else, it is very important that you vote. That freedom could easily be taken from us. It is a duty you have, to God and this country, to go vote. I say God be-cause He is at the foundation of the coun-try.”

Willis was just out of high school and serv-ing in the U.S. Navy when he sent home for his first ballot, en-abling him to vote absentee. He has not missed a single election since.

“Whether it was a contested race or not, I went and voted,” Willis said. “I feel like it’s my duty, and it’s the same for everyone else. Get out and vote, or surely don’t com-plain about the results.”

Willis laughed at his wife’s rec-ollection of Baker once saying: “If you don’t want to know the truth, then don’t ask Bud.”

And he said he tried to do just that, as he became associated with many of the most prominent names in politics.

He lauded former Congressman B. Carroll Reece for “having a great reputation across the state, and throughout the nation as well.” Reece served 17 terms in Congress, and also as chair of the Republican National Com-mittee in the 1940s. He died just after being sworn in for his 18th term and his wife, Lou-ise, filled out his unexpired term.

Former Congressman Jimmy Quillen and Willis didn’t always see eye-to-eye. “He wasn’t too enthusiastic about Baker. I think he thought that somehow it would take away from him here in the First District to have a Re-publican senator. But of course it wouldn’t, and didn’t. But Quil-len was quite a politician, and he became known for that excellent constituent service from his office.”

Willis “thought the world of former Rep. Leon Cox,” who was later appointed to the cabi-net of then-Gov. Winfield Dunn.

“He was a good and honest man. And Win-field was too. I just loved him. Of course, he made the mistake with vetoing the bill for col-

lege of medicine at East Tennessee State Uni-versity, and that caused many people here to turn against him. But he was an exceptional man and a fine governor.”

Dunn’s veto placed him in opposition to an East Tennessee triumvirate of Sen. Marshall Nave from Elizabethton and Reps. Bob Good and P.L. Robinson, from Johnson City and Jonesbor-ough respectively.

“Marshall was articulate. He certainly had the best of our state and country at heart. He was an extremely keen politician. I remember how hard he worked on so many issues, not the least of which was when he helped bring the General Assembly to meet in Jonesborough in 1970, which as far as I know is the only time they have met outside of Nashville.

“I always liked Bob Good. He worked hard to help get the medical school. I don’t think either of them got anywhere near the credit they deserved. There should be a building named for each one of them – they did the work. They earned it.”

Former Johnson City Mayor May Ross Mc-Dowell was “a wonderful lady. She was very honest, and com-pletely dedicated. She told me once that she could take me, Jim Cloyd and Fred Brandt” – the late oil busi-nessman and Johnson City attorney, respectively – “and win any elec-tion.”

McDowell was instrumental in her sup-port of the Washington County Singing Re-publicans, in which Willis participated. With the encouragement and support of Baker and Quillen, the group took on the name Tennes-see Singing Republicans and took off from Tri-Cities Airport in a McDowell-financed DC-9, bound for Miami and a debut as the first non-professional singing group to perform at a national political convention in 1968.

McDowell and Willis were also part of the group that supported famed country music star Tex Ritter when he made a bid for U.S. Senate in 1970.

“Tex was just an outstanding man. He was warm and real. He and Dorothy were a joy to be around. And he was very, very smart. Much smarter than people gave him credit for be-ing.”

Willis has high praise for Sen. Lamar Al-exander, having been friends since both were young men working to elect Baker. “He’s done a fine job. I’m proud of him. I think he proba-bly ran for president too quickly, but that was his decision and I respect it. I believe he, just like Howard, would have made an exceptional president. But it is a mean game, and you’ve

got to play hard and mean in order to get the huge amount of money it takes to run. And then there’s the media to deal with.”

Willis said he can understand the general feeling of distrust about politics.

“It’s what people can see. All they see, and hear, is that all politicians are crooked, in it for the money. And they think, ‘my vote doesn’t count.’

I don’t believe that at all,” he says with a sweep of his arms to add emphasis.

One election day, in a particu-larly tight race, “it got down to two paper ballots. The next to the last one had been erased and changed. Which meant it was not a legal ballot. So then it was down to one. And that one vote decid-ed the election. There are plenty of examples where liter-ally one vote does matter, and many where just a few votes de-cide the outcome,” Willis said.

“It used to be that candidates had to be pow-erful in the precincts, or districts, in order to even run. Now we’ve got a lot of good people who haven’t really had much political experi-ence stick their necks out and run for office. I think that’s a good thing.”

Willis recalls a dozen stories of poll watch-ing on election days – including the time he found a man trying to buy votes. “I followed him everywhere, even out into the woods. Just watching. If they’re trying something dirty, they can’t stand that. They don’t want anyone to see.”

“We used to roam around on election day, just watching, trying to make sure than noth-ing dirty or underhanded went on. I remember one time we put out the word that every pre-cinct was going to be checked, and by George, we did it. Dale Archer and I went to every one of them, and some of them twice, before the day was over.”

Willis echoes many of the founders of the republic when says he knows of only one thing that will keep the passion of his life honest, and the people in rightful control.

“Think of the men who have fought for this country over all these years. Think of the people who set up the country, the families who struggled to make it live. Think of your own mothers and fathers, or grandmothers and grandfathers.

“Then get involved and stay involved.”

that caused many people here to turn against him. But he was an exceptional man and a fine governor.”

Dunn’s veto placed him in opposition to an East Tennessee triumvirate of Sen. Marshall Nave from Elizabethton and Reps. Bob Good and P.L. Robinson, from Johnson City and Jonesbor-ough respectively.

“Marshall was articulate. He certainly had the best of our state and country at heart. He was an extremely keen politician. I remember how hard he worked on so many issues, not the least of which was when he helped bring the General Assembly to meet in Jonesborough in 1970, which as far as I know is the only time they have met outside of Nashville.

“I always liked Bob Good. He worked hard to help get the medical school. I don’t think either of them got anywhere near the credit they deserved. There should be a building named for each one of them – they did the work. They earned it.”

Former Johnson City Mayor May Ross McDowell was “a wonderful lady. She was very honest, and com-pletely dedicated. She told me once that she could take me, Jim Cloyd and Fred Brandt” – the late oil busi-nessman and Johnson City attorney, respectively – “and win any elec-tion.”

McDowell was instrumental in her support of the Washington County Singing Republicans, in which Willis participated. With the encouragement and support of Baker and Quillen, the group took on the name Tennessee Singing Republicans and took off from Tri-Cities Airport in a McDowell-financed DC-9, bound for Miami and a debut as the first non-professional singing group to perform at a national political convention in 1968.

McDowell and Willis were also part of the group that supported famed country music star Tex Ritter when he made a bid for U.S. Senate in 1970.

“Tex was just an outstanding man. He was warm and real. He and Dorothy were a joy to be around. And he was very, very smart. Much smarter than people gave him credit for being.”

Willis has high praise for Sen. Lamar Alexander, having been friends since both were young men working to elect Baker. “He’s done a fine job. I’m proud of him. I think he probably ran for

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7

‘Think of the men who have fought for this country over all these years. Think of

the people who set up the country, the fami-lies who struggled to make it live. Think

of your own mothers and fathers, or grand-mothers and grandfathers.

“Then get involved and stay involved.’

Calvin C. ‘Bud’ WillisLongtime Northeast Tennessee

political activist

August 2010

Wagon Master Remembers Simpler TimesGray, TN. --- For 47 years Guy Barron was known as

“The Wagon Master.” The 85 year-old horse and cattle man has fond memories of leading a two mile long line of wagons and horses on a three day trip through Washington County and back home.

“We would set out with horses, horse and buggies, horse and wagons and the like,” Barron said from Sittin’ Bull Restaurant recently. “We only charged $2 a wagon and $1 each for horses just to cover expenses. At night, we’d have some really good bands (Porter Wagoner once played) and to pay the band we just passed a bucket,” he said with a chuckle.

Other activities at the wagon train camp included buck dancing, cake walks, and plenty of food at the cookouts. “We’d set-up a big long trailer for the band, singing and dancing,” Barron remembers. “It was just a lot of good, clean fun.”

Wagon owners also competed for prizes for having the most antique rig and nicest rig (small and large).

“There is a lot of local history centered around the wagon train,” Barron pointed out. “When we first started the roads (in Gray and vicinity) were two lane and they were gravel. . .not paved. Much has changed since then. Now we have more houses here than trees; wasn’t like that back then.”

To handle that many people, horses and wagons in an orderly fashion, Barron hired scouts and assistants to watch over the train and report any mishaps or the breaking of his 19 rules.

The youngest of eight children, Barron always wanted to be a cowboy and came up with the idea through his love of the cowboy lifestyle.

Barron left nothing to chance on these weekend jour-neys through the country soliciting his good friend Dr. Ira Campbell to tag along as the wagon train’s physician in residence.

“You’d get a kid hurt here-and-there or someone would get sick,” he said. “That’s not uncommon with this many people involved. There would be minor accidents that would require the help of Dr. Campbell. Campbell passed away in 1984 Barron said. “He was the main doctor at the V.A. (Veterans Administration Hospital at Mountain Home) for years and was just a great, great, man.”

Even though the wagon train no longer meanders through the Gray and Harmony communities, Guy and thousands of people have fond memories of the wagon train days. “And, I made a lot of good friends and people still come up to me talking about the good ‘ole wagon train days,” Bar-ron said with a smile. “But, even though times have changed, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I guess I’ll always be remembered as the Wagon Master.”

Tim Lyle and his uncle Guy Barron.

The wagon train rolls through Gray.

Barron in a past Jonesborough Day parade.

$39.00/PERSON

Car and Driver names IRWIN Tools Night Race among 10 events to see before you die

Tickets to it are given as precious birthday and Christmas gifts, anni-versary presents and even graduation rewards, so it comes as no surprise that Car and Driver magazine has named the IRWIN Tools Night Race as one of 10 Events To See Before You Die.

The popular automotive maga-zine, with a readership of 1.31 mil-lion, is the third media outlet this month to recognize Bristol Motor Speedway as NASCAR’s most popular venue. Earlier in June, the World’s Fastest Half-Mile was named as one of The World’s 30 Most Important Sports Venues by SportPro magazine, and also was selected by SceneDaily.com as the track fans would choose to attend their first NASCAR race.

Car and Driver states that “…the late-August night race is huge. The track’s all-concrete surface and super-tight quarters – drivers say it’s like flying jets inside a hangar – make for nonstop action, multiple yellow flags, and typical hot tempers. But that’s any race at Bristol; only the night race adds darkness to the mix and an air of “It’s past your bedtime” mischievousness to the proceedings.

“The night race on Saturday

is only part of the event, though. There’s a doubleheader Wednesday night—the Camping World trucks and the Whelen modifieds—that some die-hards say is the best racing of the week. Smaller crowds—and consequently less traffic—make Wednesday night a less stressful event for the Bristol newbie.”

President and general manager Jeff Byrd is thrilled that the accolades continue to roll in for BMS.

“Wow,” he said. “How cool is that? Having the Night Race named by Car and Driver, one of the premier automotive magazines in the world, as an event you have to see before you die is quite a privilege. It’s been an amazing month for Bristol Motor Speedway as we’ve garnered all these wonderful honors.

“It just solidifies our standing in NASCAR as its premier venue, some-thing for which we are very thankful and appreciative. And we have an amazing base of fans that are solely responsible for that making that hap-pen. There is no question in my mind that our fans are the most loyal in the sport, who love not just the racing but also the entire Bristol experience. I thank each and every one of them

all from the bottom of my heart for making us No. 1.”

Among the other events named by the magazine were the Italian Grand Prix, Indianaplis 500, the NHRA Winternationals and 24 Hours of Le Mans.

August race week kicks off at Bris-tol Motor Speedway beginning Aug. 18 with a doubleheader, consisting of the O’Reilly 200 Camping World

Truck Series race and the UNOH Per-fect Storm 150 Whelen Modified Se-ries event. The Food City Nationwide Series race is Friday, Aug. 20, followed by the sport’s most popular race, the IRWIN Tools Night Race Aug. 21.

Ttickets for the IRWIN Tools Night Race are available for $109 each. These single-event tickets are renewable.

Fans also may purchase a three-

day package, which features all four NASCAR races, starting at only $170. Fans able to attend just the Friday and Saturday events may purchase a two-day package, beginning at $126.

To purchase tickets, please con-tact the BMS ticket office at its toll free number 1-866-415-4158 or 423-BRISTOL (274-7865). Tickets may also be purchased at www.bris-toltix.com

6:30 AM NWMT Garage & Registration Opens 6:45 AM Track Services Meeting (Location TBD) 7:00 AM NWMT Rookie & Spotter Meeting 8:00 AM NCWTS Garage & Registration Opens 8:00 AM to 9:50 AM NWMT Practice 9:00 AM Spectator Gates Open 9:00 AM NCWTS Rookie & Spotter Meetings & Drawing for Qualifying Order 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM NCWTS Practice 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM NWMT Final Practice 12:00 N to 1:30 PM NCWTS Final Practice 2:45 PM NWMT Qualifying (2 Laps – All positions)

4:15 PM NWMT Driver & Crew Chief Meeting 4:15 PM Track Service Meeting – Pit Road 4:35 PM NCWTS Qualifying (2 Laps - All Positions) 5:35 PM NWMT Driver Introductions 5:45 PM NCWTS Driver & Crew Chief Meeting 6:00 PM Start of the UNOH Perfect Storm 150 (150 Laps, 79.95 Miles) 7:30 PM NCWTS O’Reilly 200 Driver Introductions –Security– Clear Pit Road 8:00 PM Start of the O’Reilly 200 (200 Laps, 106.6 Miles) 8:30 PM NCWTS Registration Closes

All Times are listed in Eastern Time

O’Reilly 200 Race Schedule — Wed., Aug. 18, 2010

August 2010

NSCS, NNS **Hot Pass in Effect** (Entire Infield Area) All Day 6:00 AM NSCS Registration Opens & Access To Haulers 6:30 AM NNS Garage & Registration Opens 6:30 AM NSCS Garage Opens 7:30 AM Track Services Meeting (Location TBD) 8:00 AM NNS Rookie & Spotter Meetings & Drawing for Qualifying Order 9:00 AM Spectator Gates Open 9:00 AM to 11:50 NNS Final Practice 11:00 AM NSCS Rookie & Spotter Meetings & Drawing For Qualifying Order 12:00 N to 2:00 PM NSCS Practice 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM TV Exhibition Run 2:45 PM to 3:30 PM NSCS Final Practice 4:10 PM NNS Sharpie Qualifying (All Positions)

5:30 PM Track Services Meeting – Pit Road 5:30 PM NNS Driver/Crew Chief Meeting 5:30 PM Track Services Meeting – Pit Road 5:40 PM NSCS Sharpie Qualifying (Two Laps – All Positions) followed by Exhibition Run 7:30 PM NSCS Registration Closes 7:30 PM NSCS Cars on Lift Gate 7:30 PM NNS Food City 250 Driver Introductions - Security – Clear Pit Road 8:00 PM NNS Start of the Food City 250 (250 Laps, 133.24 Miles) 8:00 PM NSCS Garage Closes 8:30 PM NNS Registration Closes


Food City 250 – Friday, Aug. 20, 2010

10:00 AM NASCAR Foundation/Speedway Children’s Charities Track Walk11:00 AM NSCS Registration Opens12:00 PM NSCS Garage Opens 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM NASCAR Pace Car Rides 1:00 PM Spectator Gates Open 2:00 PM to 4:45 PM Wypall Track Tours 4:00 PM Track Services Meeting (Location TBD)

5:00 PM NSCS “Hot Pass in Effect” (Until One Hour After Race) 5:30 PM NSCS Driver & Crew Chief Meeting 7:00 PM NSCS IRWIN Tools Night Race Driver Introductions –Security– Clear Pit Road 7:30 PM NSCS Start of the IRWIN Tools Night Race (500 Laps, 266.5 Miles) 8:00 PM NNCS Registration Closes


IRWIN Tools Night Race – Sat., Aug. 21, 2010


August 2010

Local NFS Employees Tackle Famed Mount RainierPierce County, Washington --- Have you ever yearned to

climb up a 14,410 foot mountain?Didn’t think so.But that is exactly what a group of Nuclear Fuels Services

(NFS) co-workers recently achieved by climbing up Mount Rainier. Inspired by NFS’ Employee Fitness Club, Dean Poling and several co-workers and friends scaled the most heavily gla-ciated peak in the United States in July. Management at NFS was so impressed with the idea, the plant picked up part of the cost involved in the trip taken by eight men, all but two work at the Erwin facility.

The task of climbing Mount Rainier is no walk in the park, pardon the pun. In fact, it’s a climb of over eight miles! Hiking to the mountain’s summit can be a dangerous task depending on weather conditions and the possibility of encountering an avalanche.

“Several years ago, Lance Haun, a friend of mine, agreed to let me tag along on his first attempt to climb Mount Rainier,” Poling explained. “He (Haun) got sick and didn’t make it. I went on and was able to reach the summit which was quite a thrill. Lance attempted it again in 2008 but didn’t make it because of bad weather.”

Lance came along on the trip with Poling and other friends and we’re happy to report that the third time is a charm as he scaled up to the summit with three others (including Poling’s second achievement of conquering the mountain). Three members of the original group of eight dropped out along the way.

“It is a demanding and can be a somewhat dangerous climb,” Poling said. “A couple guys just decided they weren’t ready to continue.”

One just doesn’t get up one day and say, ‘Hey, I think I’ll go scale a 14,410 foot active volcano mountain!’ Although Mount Rainier has been rather quiet since the 1880s.

Anyway, the group left the Tri-Cities on July 17th stopping at Olympic National Park for a two day preliminary hike. On July 20th they pulled into Ashford, Washington near Mount Rainier for orientation. The next day they went to a required climb school to prepare them for their big journey.

On July 22nd the group hiked and climbed 5,200 feet to Paradise Camp and spent the night.

On Friday, July 23rd the group headed up the mountain beginning at 11:30 p.m. and arriving at the summit at 12:30 a.m.

“It was absolutely breathtaking; the way the sun hit the land-scape changed the snow to pink (in color). Stunning. Just truly stunning,” is how Poling described the scene from the summit.

Are there any plans for the NFS Fitness Club group to return for an encore?

“No. Not really,” Poling revealed as he talked about his sec-ond successful trip up Mount Rainier. “We are however, loosely talking about a trip to Southwest Utah but we’ll see. I would like to thank NFS for helping make the trip possible. It’s an experi-ence none of us will soon forget.”

The NFS group stops for a photo at the top of the mountain.

Hiking down a slope. The original group of eight.

Looking up at Mt. Rainier. One of the many vistas.

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