summer 2008, tennessee connections

tnconnections.com

Small Changes, Big ResultsFamily takes conservation practices in stride

Take Your PickFresh fruits and berries make sweet summer treats

Not Just for KidsPalate-pleasing Mexican

popsicles fi nd a niche in Nashville

tnconnectionsSummer 2008 An Offi cial Publication of Your Locally Owned Municipal Electric System

116 Power Board.indd C2 5/13/08 10:02:37 AM

Summer 2008 tnconnections.com | 1

table of contents

online contents | tnconnections.com

tnconnections

table of contents

online contents | tnconnections.com

tnconnectionsFEATURES

Not Just for Kids 4

Flavorful Mexican popsicles take frozen treats to another level.

Take Your Pick 6

Fresh fruits and berries make summertime desserts even sweeter.

Small Changes, Big Results 9

The Moore family of Nashville takes conservation practices in stride.

DEPARTMENTS

Municipal Power Perspective 3

Vistas 10

Activities in Tennessee 12

Connect to Tennessee Products 17

tnconnec

tnconnectioSummer 2008 An Official Publication of Clarksville Department of Ele

Summer 2008 Edition

Editor Rebecca Denton

Editorial Assistant Jessy Yancey

Contributing Writer Kelly Price

Creative Director Keith Harris

Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto

Staff Photographers Jeff Adkins, Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier, Ian Curcio, Brian McCord

Senior Production Project Manager Tadara Smith

Production Project Managers Melissa Hoover, Jill Wyatt

Sr. Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Vikki Williams

Graphic DesignersLinda Moreiras, Amy Nelson

Ad Traffi c Meghann Carey, Sarah Miller, Patricia Moisan, Raven Petty

Additional photography courtesy of Tennessee State Photo Services

Sr. V.P./Sales Carla H. Thurman

Sr. V.P./Operations Casey E. Hester

V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester

V.P./Editorial Director Teree Caruthers

Production Director Natasha Lorens

Assistant Production Director Christina Carden

Pre-press Coordinator Hazel Risner

Controller Chris Dudley

Advertising Sales Manager Custom Division Beth Murphy

Integrated Media Manager Robin Robertson

Distribution Director Gary Smith

Accounting Moriah Domby, Richie Fitzpatrick, Diana Guzman, Maria McFarland, Lisa Owens

Custom Sales Support Patti Cornelius

Tennessee Connections is published quarterly by Journal Communications Inc. for participating members of the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association. TMEPA represents 61 municipal power distributors in Tennessee, which serve more than 2 million customers. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067. Phone: (615) 771-0080. E-mail: [email protected].

For information about TMEPA, contact:

Tennessee Municipal Electric Power AssociationPaddock 1, Suite C-13229 Ward CircleBrentwood, TN 37027Phone (615) 373-5738 Fax (615) 373-1901tmepa.org

Executive Director Mike Vinson

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

©Copyright 2008 Journal Communications Inc. and Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

ON THE COVER:

Chocolate hot pepper paletasby Brian McCord

Watch a VideoCheck out Uncle Lester and his dancing shoes or take a virtual ride on a miniature train in our online video gallery.

Find a RecipeSearch, print or e-mail a recipe – or share your own – in our online recipe fi le. You can even watch cooking demonstrations of our favorite dishes.

Enter a ContestFind entry forms and rules for contests, sweepstakes and other special promotions.

Browse the ArchivesSearch our online archives for past stories, photos and magazine covers.

Virtual MagazineFlip through the pages of the magazine without leaving your laptop. Print and e-mail articles and instantly link to advertisers.

FEATURES

Not Just for Kids 4

Flavorful Mexican popsicles take frozen treats to another level.

Take Your Pick 6

Fresh fruits and berries make summertime desserts even sweeter.

Small Changes, Big Results 9

The Moore family of Nashville takes conservation practices in stride.

DEPARTMENTS

Municipal Power Perspective 3

Vistas 10

Activities in Tennessee 12

Connect to Tennessee Products 17

traveler’salmanacTravel tips and fun fi ndsoff the beaten path

GARDEN OF WINGED DELIGHTSHere’s a treat for anyone who loves butterfl ies. (And who doesn’t love butterfl ies?)

The Native Butterfl y Garden at Burgess Falls State Natural Area near Sparta is a 20,000-square-foot garden with more than 3,000 native plants that attract monarchs, swallowtails, sulfurs and other beauties.

The project was funded by the Tennessee State Iris Fund and landscaped by the park staff, the Putnam County Master Gardeners and Americorps members, all of whom contributed to the thousands of man-hours required to complete it. The annual butterfl y garden celebration, featuring a day

of educational programs, is planned for Aug. 9. For more information, call (931) 432-5312.

FROZEN ASSETSThe Tic-Toc Ice Cream Parlor has been a favorite gathering spot in Loudon – about 28 miles west of Knoxville – for nearly a decade. Folks from miles around seem

to gravitate to the quaint downtown ice cream shop, where fresh,

homemade ice cream is served up mid-May through Labor Day.

Folks who frequent the place say it’s the best ice cream around,

and that tasty difference may have something to do with 14 percent butterfat, says owner Bob Jones, who arrives at 6:30 each morning to start mixing the ingredients. The process takes about fi ve hours, and he makes about 30 gallons a day.

The ice cream parlor was originally opened in the former Tic-Toc jewelry store building, and Jones and his wife, Mary, bought the business a couple years ago. They’ve kept the same recipes, décor and small-town friendly atmosphere that have turned the Tic-Toc into a Loudon County landmark.

CHILL OUT WITH COOL CHARACTERSTake a break from the heat and check out the penguins at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, where the Penguins’ Rock exhibit features more than a dozen of the cold-climate critters. The interactive gallery includes touch pools so guests can feel the chill of the penguins’ watery world, and lively graphics lead visitors on a penguin fact-fi nding mission. Watch a video of the playful penguins, see them live on the aquarium’s PenguinCam or read the Penguin Keepers’ blog online at tnaqua.com (click on “Meet Our Animals”).

While in Chattanooga, enjoy the view from the window of a Tennessee Valley Railroad restored vintage train, or board the Southern Belle Riverboat for a lunch or dinner cruise. Check out other attractions or plan your getaway at www.visitchattanooga.com.

WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOUWe’re sending out an all-points bulletin – a call for help in fi nding the hidden, unexpected or little-known spots in our home state. The wonderfully special restaurant down a winding back road, miles from the nearest “big city.” The quirky little museum that too few folks know about. Your family’s favorite getaway. A place to go when you’re out for a Sunday drive.

Send your ideas to Editor, TN Connections, 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, or e-mail [email protected].


MembershipAlcoa Electric Department

Athens Utilities Board

Benton County Electric System

Bolivar Energy Authority

Bristol Tennessee Essential Services

Brownsville Utility Department

Carroll County Electrical Department

Electric Power Board of Chattanooga

CDE Lightband – Clarksville

Cleveland Utilities

Clinton Utilities Board

Columbia Power & Water System

Cookeville Department of Electricity

Covington Electric System

Dayton Electric Department

Dickson Electric System

Dyersburg Electric System

Elizabethton Electric Department

Erwin Utilities

Etowah Utilities Department

Gallatin Department of Electricity

Greeneville Light & Power System

Harriman Utility Board

Humboldt Utilities

Jackson Energy Authority

Jellico Electric & Water Systems

Johnson City Power Board

Knoxville Utilities Board

LaFollette Utilities

Lawrenceburg Utility Systems

Lenoir City Utilities Board

Lewisburg Electric System

Lexington Electric System

Loudon Utilities

City of Maryville Electric Department

McMinnville Electric System

Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division

Milan Department of Public Utilities

Morristown Utility Systems

Mount Pleasant Power System

Murfreesboro Electric Department

Nashville Electric Service

Newbern Electric Department

Newport Utilities

City of Oak Ridge Electric Department

Paris Board of Public Utilities

Pulaski Electric System

Ripley Power and Light Company

Rockwood Electric Utility

Sevier County Electric System

Shelbyville Power System

Town of Somerville Utilities

Sparta Electric System

Springfi eld Electric Department

Sweetwater Utilities Board

Trenton Light & Water Department

Tullahoma Utilities Board

Union City Electric System

Weakley County Municipal Electric System

I had an interesting conversation recently with a new neighbor. Like so many newcomers to Tennessee, he was amazed that his electric bill was so little compared to “back home.” He and his wife have a beautiful house, substantially larger than what they had before, and they expected their electric bill to be greater – not less. I remember how I felt when we moved here fi ve years ago. My cost for electricity dropped more than 30 percent, and I couldn’t have been happier. He knew that I worked for an association of municipal electric systems and questioned me extensively about public power here in Tennessee.

You can also imagine how excited I was to have the opportunity to brag on public power. After all, with over 30 years in the electric utility business, my loyalties are well established, and I’m exceptionally proud of our industry. Th ough some customers of municipal power may feel that energy costs are high, we are still substantially less than most areas of the country. Th e reasons are many. Th e wholesale power provider for

public power is TVA, and it certainly deserves a commendation for its eff orts in holding down the cost of electrical energy. But without the dedication and commitment of the municipal electric systems of Tennessee (and each employee of each system), your energy costs would undoubtedly be much higher. Th ese public-spirited servants have two goals constantly on their minds: outstanding service and competitive energy costs. Th ey’ve done a remarkable job and continue to do so, often with little or no recognition.

Summer is upon us and that brings potentially higher electric bills for air conditioning your home. We urge you to use energy wisely. Set your thermostat at 78 degrees, use ceiling or oscillating fans for improved air fl ow, and please change your fi lters on a monthly basis. Closing curtains or blinds on the sunny side of the house can also provide relief as will an annual service check by a reputable air conditioning contractor.

One fi nal note: We maintain a Web site at www.tmepa.org where you can keep up with news from around the state as it aff ects the electric industry, read about the member systems of TMEPA and view this magazine as well as past issues. We encourage you to visit us “on the Web.” Have a great summer, stay cool and use energy wisely.

MIKE VINSONExecutive Director Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association

We’ve

Got It GoodTennessee’s energy costs

still beat most of the nation’s

116 Power Board.indd 3 5/13/08 10:06:14 AM

4 | tnconnections.com Tennessee Connections

Story by JESSY YANCEY

Photography by BRIAN McCORD

E veryone loves to cool off with a popsicle on a sweltering summer day, but the exotic fl avors off ered at Las Paletas,

a gourmet popsicle shop in Nashville, take frozen treats to another level.

Sure, they’ve got your conventional strawberry ice pops – but these are served alongside more unusual, sophisticated fl avors such as pistachio, hibiscus and chocolate with hot peppers.

Th e list goes on: raspberry lime, coff ee, honeydew, Chai tea … even corn. In fact, Las Paletas has off ered up more than 100 diff erent fl avors over the six years the shop has been open.

“Every day we have diff erent fl avors,” says Irma Paz-Bernstein, who owns the shop near downtown with her sister Norma Paz-Curtis. “Th ere’s no menu, because what if there are no pineapples in Nashville?

Th is way, whatever’s ripe, whatever’s in season, that’s what we make.”

In the sisters’ native Mexico, “paletas” refers to popsicles made with fresh ingredients.

“Th ere’s not a formula,” she explains. “Each one is diff erent. We blend, squeeze, chop or puree each special ingredient.”

Las Paletas has become well known throughout the Nashville area, despite its lack of a sign or advertisements.

“Professors tell me it’s advertising 101. You have to have a sign,” Paz-Bernstein says.

But the sisters’ word-of-mouth method has attracted more customers than any fl ashing neon.

“I want them to come more than once, and for that, they have to be introduced to the phenomenon,” Paz-Bernstein says. “One customer brings somebody and gives them the whole story. It’s not just a stop; it’s the experience.”

Customers also play a vital role in

Not Just for

Irma Paz-Bernstein and Norma Paz-Curtis, owners of Las Paletas Gourmet Popsicles


Palate-pleasing Mexican popsicles give frozen treats a grown-up fl air

What To Knowexpanding the ever-changing menu. Paz-Bernstein added peanut butter treats to the lineup when a young boy asked for them – and he served as her taste tester.

“He was so proud!” she says, adding that the request led to peanut butter-banana, peanut butter-chocolate chip and other fl avors.

“We always have opportunities to be creative,” Paz-Bernstein says. “It’s not just fruits and veggies – it’s grains, nuts, fl owers. You have one idea, and so many more come pouring out.”

Th e inspiration for a popular rose-petal popsicle bloomed when the sisters were trying to think of an “edible and romantic” fl avor for the upcoming Valentine’s Day. Packaged diff erently, with some coated in chocolate, the rose-petal paletas practically fl ew off the shelves. Originally off ered exclusively around the holiday, high customer demand made the fl avor practically a year-round item.

“Our customers truly run our shop; we just have fun with it,” Paz-Bernstein says. “If you want to be smart, you study. When you want to be wise, you listen.”

Th at kind of mind-set helped to build Las Paletas into the successful business it is today – even attracting attention on a national level.

In June, Paz-Bernstein will appear on the Food Network’s “Th rowdown! with Bobby Flay,” a show in which the celebrity chef surprises a cook renowned for a specifi c type of dish, challenging them to a “throwdown.”

Despite her brush with fame, Paz-Bernstein remains down-to-earth.

“It’s not how much money you make or how many stores you open,” she says. “We have helped transform the concept of what a treat is. Customers requesting hot pepper or a 4-year-old asking for avocado – it truly touches my heart. Th at is, for me, true success.” g

Kidsg You’ll find Las Paletas

in an unmarked storefront at the corner of 12th Avenue South and Kirkwood in Nashville. Las Paletas’ gourmet popsicles – which cost $2.50 each – can also be found at Fido, Bongo Java, Baja Burrito and Plumgood Foods in Nashville. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 7 p.m. in the summer and noon to 6 p.m. in the winter.

g Unable to make the trek to Nashville? If you have friends in town, get them to pack some paletas in dry ice and ship to you overnight.

g Call (615) 386-2101 for more information.

If You Go

Story by KELLY PRICE

A poet once said, “In summer, the song sings itself.”

A cook would add that summer’s delicious and

abundant fruits virtually prepare themselves. Berries, peaches, nectarines, apricots and cherries don’t need complicated recipes so much as a gentle touch to enhance and show off their fresh fl avors, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy summer’s largesse.

Here we off er a fresh berry pie (easy to whip up and a gorgeous addition to even the most formal table), a fresh strawberry pie, and instructions for easy cherry and peach fi llings that you can add to a store-bought crust – or your family’s own homemade crust recipe.

If you’re up for a change, you might also try our unexpected new crust variation made with crumbs of that childhood favorite, Zwieback toast.

Take Your Pick

Fruits and berries make summertime even sweeter



BERRY PIE2 cups fresh raspberries

2 cups fresh blackberries

2 cups fresh blueberries

1/2 cup granulated sugar

3 Tablespoons cornstarch

1/8 teaspoon table salt

1 Tablespoon lemon juice

2 Tablespoons red currant jelly

1 pie shell, cooked and cooled

Combine berries in a large colander and gently rinse. Spread on a baking sheet lined with paper towels and gently pat dry.

In a food processor, puree 2-1/2 cups mixed berries for about one minute, until they’re smooth and fully pureed.

Strain the puree though a mesh strainer into a non-reactive saucepan, scraping and pressing the seeds to extract as much puree as possible.

Whisk sugar, cornstarch and salt in small a bowl to combine, and whisk mixture into the puree.

Bring the puree to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. When the mixture reaches a boil and is thickened to consistency of pudding, remove it from the heat, stir in lemon juice, and set aside to cool slightly.

While puree is cooling, place remaining berries in a medium bowl. Heat jelly in another saucepan over low heat until fully melted. Drizzle the melted jelly over the berries and toss gently to coat. Pour slightly cooled puree into a cooled pie shell and top with fresh berries. Loosely cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the puree has set (three hours or more).

Serve with whipped cream.

CHERRY PIE FILLING6 cups sweet cherries (pitted) or

6 cups pitted frozen cherries

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 lemon: 1 teaspoon zest, 2 teaspoons lemon juice

1/8 teaspoon ground allspice

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon almond extract

1 Tablespoon brandy

3 to 4 Tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Tuck prepared fruit into pie shell, scatter butter over fruit, add top crust, fl ute around edges, and cut four slits at right angles on dough to allow steam to escape.

Place pie on baking sheet. Bake until top crust is golden (20-25 minutes).

Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees and continue to bake until juices bubble and crust is golden brown (30-50 minutes longer).

Transfer pie to wire rack. Let cool to almost room temperature to allow juices to thicken (1-2 hours).

FRESH STRAWBERRY PIE2 quarts fresh strawberries, washed and hulled (1 quart halved; remaining quart sliced lengthwise into 4-5 slices)

1 cup granulated sugar

1 Tablespoon powdered pectin for lower sugar recipes

Pinch of table salt

3 Tablespoons cornstarch

Pinch of ground cinnamon

2 Tablespoons lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 prebaked 9-inch pie shell

Puree 2 cups of the halved berries in blender, scraping down sides, until smooth.

Bring puree, sugar, pectin and salt to a boil, stirring occasionally, over medium heat.

Increase heat to medium high and boil until sugar and pectin are dissolved (about 1 minute).

Mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until smooth.

Remove from heat and add cornstarch to strawberry mixture, then return to boil, stirring constantly over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer, stirring, until mixture becomes thick and clear, about three minutes.

Remove from heat, stir in cinnamon, lemon juice and vanilla.

Transfer to a large bowl and cool to room temperature. (Reserve 1/4 cup for topping.)

Fold sliced strawberries into large bowl of glaze, coat thoroughly.

Turn glazed berries into pie shell and spread evenly. Place berry halves in concentric circles, fl at side down, points toward center. (Start at center and work out to edge.)

Stir 2 Tablespoons water into reserved glaze to thin, and brush over berry halves. Refrigerate until cold.

MORE RECIPES ONLINE Turn those fragrant, juicy peaches into a must-have-seconds dessert that’s easy as pie to make, and try something a little different – and more grown up – with Zwieback toast. Get the recipes for Perfect Peach Pie Filling and Zwieback Pie Crust at www.tnconnections.com.


Story by REBECCA DENTON

E rin Moore of Nashville grew up in southern California, where droughts and blackouts were real possibilities, and the

experience forever colored the way she viewed energy consumption.

“If you leave the room, you turn off the light, and you don’t let the water run when you brush your teeth – that’s how my parents were,” she says. “I do the same things with my kids. If you’re not using something anymore, turn it off.”

Moore and her husband, Tim, have always incorporated smart energy practices into their lives, and these days they’re doing even more to shrink their carbon footprint. The modifications may not seem huge, but small changes have a way of adding up.

The Moores use compact fluorescent light bulbs, and they keep their thermostat set lower than most in the wintertime.

“In the winter it’s 65 during the day – 60 at night and when we’re not home,” Erin Moore says. “We use space heaters to heat up the bathroom and other rooms in the

winter, but we don’t heat the whole house to 80 degrees.”

In the summer they keep the temperature in their home at about 80 degrees during the day and 75 at night.

“If people aren’t sleeping well at night, we make adjustments,” Moore says. “You have to work with your family, but it works well for us – and our utilities don’t average more than $200 a month, including gas, electricity and water.”

They moved into a new house with a smaller yard a little over a year ago, so they switched from a gas-powered lawn motor to the manual kind. They still use quite a bit of gas to drive to work and to shuttle their two children to school, sports, music lessons and other activities, but they try to be conscious of grouping errands into those trips.

“We try to combine everything into one trip,” she says, “and we carpool with another family to school.”

This summer they’re buying a solar attic fan to help keep their two-story house cool in the summer, and they also plan to add solar screens [window treatments that help reduce glare and

Small Changes

Nashville family takes conservation practices in stride

improve energy efficiency] for their home’s eight west-facing windows – a big source of summertime heat.

“Our house has one air unit for the entire house,” Moore says. “We just want to cut down the intense afternoon sunlight so the air conditioner is more effective.”

They expect a $1,000 total investment for the fan and shades to pay for itself through even smaller utility bills in a year or two.

The Moores’ eco-friendly attitude extends to the food they eat as well. The family buys locally grown produce and local, grass-fed meats almost exclusively, and they eat organic foods whenever possible. Erin Moore volunteers on Saturdays at a local farmers market, where she buys most of their fruits and vegetables.

“We started doing that because the food tastes better, it’s good for you, and it also has an energy-saving component,” she says. “You’re not buying food that’s been shipped from across the country.”

Ultimately, the Moores say their philosophy comes down to a desire to be good stewards of the earth – and their children, ages 8 and 11, are learning first-hand about conservation in the process.

“These are our natural resources,” Moore says. “If kids understand that these resources have to be cared for, it makes them better citizens of the world.” g

Add Up

SHARE YOUR BRIGHT IDEASTN Connections is highlighting readers’ energy-saving tips and tales of conservation in upcoming issues, and we’d love to hear your bright ideas. E-mail your energy-saving experiences to [email protected]. From left: Amanda, Tim, Erin and

Ethan Moore of Nashville

vistasvistas

A bumble bee in KnoxvillePhoto by Vickie Montgomery-Highfi eld


summer activities in tennessee

juneJUNE 2-8STANFORD ST. JUDE CHAMPIONSHIPTournament of Players Club at Southwind, Memphis – Stanford St. Jude Championship is dedicated to the support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by presenting a world-class PGA Tour golf tournament. CONTACT: Stanford St. Jude, (901) 748-0534, www.stanfordstjude.com

JUNE 6-7SHANNON STREET BLUES & HERITAGE FESTIVALJackson – Award-winning blues and events. CONTACT: Jackson Downtown Development Corp., (731) 427-7573, www.downtownjackson.com

JUNE 6-7BLUE PLUM ART & MUSIC FESTIVALJohnson City – Outdoor music and art festival in downtown Johnson City. Includes children’s entertainment, music and more. CONTACT: Christine Murdock, (423) 928-3479, www.blueplum.org

JUNE 6-7COKE OVENS BLUEGRASS FESTIVALCoke Ovens Park & Museum, Dunlap – Features local and regional bluegrass bands including Valley Grass, The Coalition Band, The Cumberland Band and the Cumberland Gap Connection. Come and enjoy the fun, food and entertainment at this beautiful historical park. CONTACT: Sequatchie Valley Historical Assn., (423) 949-3483

JUNE 6-8PROMISE LAND FESTIVALCharlotte – Includes live stage entertainment, singing, dancing, food, arts & crafts, and more. CONTACT: Serina Gilbert, (615) 789-5859, www.dicksoncountychamber.com

JUNE 7CANEY FORK ART & MUSIC FESTIVALIvy-Agee Memorial Park, Gordonsville – Art and music festival. CONTACT: Donna Jones, (615) 683-5070, www.smithcountychamber.org

JUNE 7MOSHEIM FUNDAYSMosheim – A wonderful small-town festival with food, crafts, music, clogging, children’s games, beauty pageant, and a “Big Bubba’s Fun Run” open car show. Bring your lawn chair and spend the day. CONTACT: Town of Mosheim, (423) 422-4051

JUNE 7-8SYCAMORE SHOALS NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVALElizabethton – Come and discover the arts, music, dance, crafts, legends and stories of Native Americans. CONTACT: Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area, (423) 543-5808, www.sycamoreshoals.org

JUNE 7-8HERITAGE FOUNDATION TOWN & COUNTRY TOUR OF HOMESFranklin & Williamson County – A tour of 10 historic properties along the beautiful countryside of Williamson County. CONTACT: Downtown Franklin Assn., (615) 591-8500, www.historicfranklin.com

JUNE 7-8SHAKESPEARE & FRIENDS RENAISSANCE FAIRECrockett Spring Park, Rogersville – A recreation of the 1590s in Scotland under the reign of Queen Elizabeth I with storytelling, puppetry, music, period games of skill, demonstrations of period arts & crafts, and a Market Place with merchants’ wares. CONTACT: Amanda Reeves, (423) 272-2752, www.shakespeareandfriends.org

JUNE 11-1542ND ANNUAL COVERED BRIDGE CELEBRATIONElizabethton – Experience one of the region’s most beautiful areas and celebrate summer with fun activities for the entire family. Music on the Bridge features live entertainment, artisans, Kids’ Island and more. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (423) 547-3852, www.tourelizabethton.com

JUNE 12-14DUMPLIN VALLEY JUNEFESTDumplin Valley Farm, Kodak – Bluegrass festival with performances from The Isaacs, Kenny & Amanda Smith, The Seldom Scene, Dave Peterson & 1946, and more. CONTACT: Mitzi Soward, (865) 397-7942, www.dumplinvalleybluegrass.com

JUNE 13-1439TH ANNUAL DIANA SINGINGDiana – This event began in 1969, now more than 5,000 visitors attend to listen to beautiful a cappella singing. CONTACT: Jack Parks, (931) 363-3204, www.dianasinging.com

JUNE 13-15BATTLE OF BURG HILL – LIVING HISTORY CIVIL WAR RE-ENACTMENTGatlinburg – Features period performers in Civil War camp along with the recreation of the “Battle of Burg Hill.” A cannon drill and music are included in the festivities. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (800) 568-4748, www.gatlinburg.com

Regional bluegrass musicians perform at the Coke Ovens Bluegrass Festival in Dunlap.

This listing includes events of statewide interest scheduled in June, July and August as provided by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Dates were accurate at press time but are subject to change; please call the contact listed before traveling long distances to attend.

Additional information on Tennessee events is also available online through the department’s Web site, tnvacation.com.


JUNE 13-15JUNETEENTH FREEDOM & HERITAGE FESTIVALDouglas Park, Memphis – Annual freedom celebration with blues, gospel, hip-hop, jazz, a carnival, picnics and more. CONTACT: Festival Information, (901) 385-4943, www.juneteenthmemphis.org

JUNE 14TOUR DE WAYNE BICYCLE RIDEClifton – Bicycle ride through the hills and hollows of rural Wayne County. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 724-4337, www.waynecountychamber.org

JUNE 14LOUIE BLUIE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVALCove Lake State Park, Caryville – This festival, named after Campbell County native and renowned musician and artist Howard “Louie Bluie” Armstrong, features a wide variety of music including traditional string-band, blues, bluegrass, Americana, gospel and mountain jazz. CONTACT: Peggy Mathews, (423) 562-8189, www.louiebluie.org

JUNE 14-15146TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF PARKER’S CROSSROADS LIVING HISTORY & BATTLE RE-ENACTMENTParker’s Crossroads – Visit the Civil War-era living history camps or watch the battle re-enactments. CONTACT: Parker’s Crossroads Battlefield Assn., (731) 986-5572, www.parkerscrossroads.com

JUNE 14-15TENNESSEE HERITAGE BARBECUE FESTIVALSam Davis Home & Museum, Smyrna – Professional and amateur barbecue cooks vie for cash prizes along with entertainment, crafts, good food, living history demonstrations and lots of family fun. CONTACT: Sam Davis Home & Museum, (615) 459-2341, www.tennesseeheritage barbecuefestival.com

JUNE 20-21SECRET CITY FESTIVALA.K. Bissell Park, Oak Ridge – Highlights the heritage of Oak Ridge and its role in World War II. Includes a children’s festival, historic displays, World War II re-enactment and tours of Manhattan Project sites. CONTACT: (865) 425-3610, www.secretcityfestival.com

JUNE 20-22WORLD ON A STRING: NASHVILLE INTERNATIONAL PUPPET FESTIVALNashville Public Library, Nashville – Featuring performances by Magdeburg Puppentheater of Germany, Teatro dei Burattini San Carlino of Italy, Le Velo Theater

of France and the Dragon Art Studio of China. Special guests including Nashville Ballet and master puppeteer Phillip Huber (Being John Malkovich). Perfect for the whole family. CONTACT: Nashville Public Library, (615) 862-5755, www.library.nashville.org

JUNE 21BELL BUCKLE RC & MOON PIE FESTIVALBell Buckle – Celebrate the South’s finest tradition – an RC Cola and a Moon Pie. Includes a parade, crowning of the RC and Moon Pie King and Queen and cutting of the largest Moon Pie. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 389-9663, www.bellbucklechamber.com

JUNE 21ROSE MONT RENAISSANCERose Mont Mansion, Gallatin – Built by Josephus Conn Guild in the 1830s, Rose Mont is recognized as one of Tennessee’s outstanding Greek Revival houses. Rose Mont, once the site of the area’s largest thoroughbred horse farm with 500 acres, is now listed on the National Register of Historic Homes. Includes home tour, food, crafts and more. CONTACT: Sumner County Tourism, (888) 301-7866, www.sumnercvb.com

JUNE 21-2262ND ANNUAL RHODODENDRON FESTIVALRoan Mountain – Celebrating the blooming of the Rhododendron Gardens, the most gorgeous display of natural beauty on the North American continent. Features handmade crafts, food and a variety of

traditional music. CONTACT: Roan Mountain State Park, (800) 250-8620, www.roanmountain.com

JUNE 22JEFFERSON STREET JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVALNashville – Two days of great music, wonderful food and plenty of fun for the family. Bridging the Gap Mixer will be held June 21. CONTACT: Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership Inc., (615) 726-5867, www.jumptojefferson.com

JUNE 26-29KUUMBA FESTIVALKnoxville – The largest African American cultural arts festival in East Tennessee. The festival is a four-day, four-night multi-event celebration with more than 200 entertainers performing on three stages. Live demonstrations and more than 100 craftspeople and food vendors. CONTACT: Nkechi Ajanaku, (865) 546-9705, www.kuumbafesttn.com

JUNE 27-28DICKSON FIDDLERS CONTEST & FAMILY FUN FESTIVALDickson – Features a Battle of the Bands, barbecue sausage judging contest, crafts, car show, antique tractor exhibition, children’s activity center, magic show and more. CONTACT: Bobby Prosser, (615) 446-5914, www.dicksoncountychamber.com

JUNE 27-28LYNNVILLE BLACKBERRY FESTIVALDowntown Lynnville – Taste the “World’s Largest Blackberry Pie,” rides for children, Jolly Carnival, blackberry treats, dance the night away and more. CONTACT: City Hall, (931) 527-3158, www.gilescountytourism.com

Bicycle through the hills and hollows of Wayne County at the Tour De Wayne Bicycle Ride.


JUNE 28-29RAID ON WATAUGARocky Mount Museum, Piney Flats – The year 1777 was called “the year of the bloody 7s” in the Watauga Settlement due to the high number of battles, sieges and raids between the Cherokee and the settlers on the Watauga, Holston and Nolichucky rivers. Join re-enactors from across the Southeast as they recreate events typical of the year 1777. CONTACT: Rocky Mount Museum, (423) 538-7396, www.rockymountmuseum.com

julyJULY 3FIRECRACKER 5K RUN FOR ST. JUDEThe Racquet Club, Memphis – Be a part

of this summer evening of fun and celebration for the entire family.

It’s Tennessee’s RRCA 5K state championship. It’s a dance, pool party, live entertainment and a chance to support the children of St. Jude. CONTACT: (901) 765-4409, www.firecracker5k.com

JULY 3-6LIBERTYFESTLawrenceburg – Events include a Second Chance Prom, concert and street dance, tailgate party, Big Kahuna Luau, cooking contest, Old-Timers vs. All-Stars Classic Baseball Game, and a traditional huge fireworks display on the 4th. “Bye Bye Birdie” will also be presented at the Historic Crockett Theatre. CONTACT: Anne Morrow, (931) 762-7617, www.cityoflawrenceburgtn.com

JULY 4ANVIL SHOOT AND CELEBRATIONNorris – Old-fashioned celebration with musicians, craftspeople and demonstrations of old-time activities such as sassafras tea brewing, shepherding, rail splitting and more. CONTACT: Museum of Appalachia, (865) 494-7680, www.museumof appalachia.org

JULY 4-5SMITHVILLE’S FIDDLER’S JAMBOREE & CRAFTS FESTIVAL Smithville – State and National Championships in 24 categories plus seven categories for country music beginners, continuous jam session, more than 200 juried craft exhibitors and cash prizes. CONTACT: Jamboree Office, (615) 597-8500, www.smithvillejamboree.com

JULY 4-6JONESBOROUGH DAYS FESTIVALJonesborough – Patriotic celebration of the region’s heritage. The theme this year is “Farmin’ on the Fourth.” Visit villages from different periods in time, see traditional handmade crafts, enjoy concerts and children’s activities. CONTACT: Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center, (423) 753-1010, www.jonesboroughtn.org

JULY 5ROCKIN’ THE DOCKSLenoir City Park, Lenoir City – Live bands, food, fireworks and children’s play area on the banks of beautiful Fort Loudoun Lake. CONTACT: Lenoir City Parks & Recreation, (865) 986-1223, www.visitloudoncounty.com

JULY 6HALF MOON MUSIC FESTIVALWatts Bar Lake, Ten Mile – Come by water or land to enjoy live entertainment. CONTACT: Dr. Wayne Tipps, (865) 717-0584, www.halfmoonfest.com

JULY 11-12LAUDERDALE COUNTY TOMATO FESTIVALRipley City Park, Ripley – This festival honors local tomato growers. Includes food, crafts, live music, tomato contest, tomato tasting, Tomato Festival Royalty Contest and more. CONTACT: Lauderdale Chamber/ECD, (731) 635-9541, www.lauderdalecountytn.org

JUNE 27-28MINOR HILL RODEOMinor Hill Agri-Park, Minor Hill – Come enjoy this rodeo and the crowning of the Rodeo Queen. CONTACT: Minor Hill City Hall, (931) 565-3113, www.gilescountytourism.com

JUNE 28-29BLOOMS DAYS GARDEN FESTIVAL & MARKETPLACEUniversity of Tennessee Gardens, Knoxville – Offers two days of gardening workshops, arts & crafts market, children’s activities, live music and food. CONTACT: Friends

of the UT Gardens, (865) 525-4555,

www.bloomsdays.utk.edu

The Grainger County Tomato Festival features tomato wars and more.


JULY 11-1331ST ANNUAL UNCLE DAVE MACON DAYS FESTIVALCannonsburgh Village, Murfreesboro – Featuring the National Championships in old-time banjo, old-time buck dancing and old-time clogging; arts, crafts and food. CONTACT: Uncle Dave Macon Days, (800) 716-7560, www.uncledavemacondays.com

JULY 12GRAVEYARD TALESRocky Mount Museum, Piney Flats – Experience spooky stories and haunted tales as told by the Jonesborough Storytellers Guild. Get a taste of Halloween in July. CONTACT: Connie Gill, (423) 753-9882, www.storytellersguild.org

JULY 12WATERTOWN JAZZ FESTIVAL & MURDER MYSTERY TRAINWatertown – After your exciting murder mystery ride, relax and enjoy the exciting lineup of live jazz entertainment at the Jazz Festival. CONTACT: Jazz Festival, (615) 237-9338, www.wilsoncountycvb.com

JULY 12COLUMBIA SUNSET SYMPHONYHistoric Elm Springs, Columbia – Enjoy an evening of dining and music under the stars. Dinner available with reservations. CONTACT: Mike Sharpton, (931) 388-0117, www.sunsetsymphony.com

JULY 17-19QUILTFESTJohnson City & Jonesborough – The largest quilting event in the region, drawing quilters from throughout the United States. Quilt exhibits, classes and lectures. CONTACT: Tennessee Quilts, (423) 753-6644, www.tennesseequilts.com

JULY 18-20SCOPES TRIAL FESTIVALRhea County Courthouse, Dayton – Dramatic re-enactment of the 1925 Scopes Evolution Trial held in the original courthouse. Crafts, food, car show, children’s area, music and more. CONTACT: Dayton Chamber of Commerce, (423) 775-0361, www.rheacountyetc.com

JULY 18-27GATLINBURG CRAFTSMEN’S FAIRGatlinburg – More than 200 of the finest woodcarvers, potters, broom makers, stained glass makers, metal workers, basket weavers, calligraphers and jewelers. CONTACT: Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair, (865) 436-7479, www.craftsmenfair.com

JULY 24ART.A.MA.JIGTanner Hill Gallery, Chattanooga – This event pairs the culinary and fine arts for an evening of fun and fellowship to support the arts. CONTACT: Arts & Education Council, (423) 267-1218, www.artsedcouncil.org

JULY 25-27GRAINGER COUNTY TOMATO FESTIVALRutledge – Events include Tomato Wars, Civil War encampment, 5K fun run, antique engines and tractors, beauty pageant, artisans, entertainment on three stages and more. CONTACT: Doris Stratton, (865) 828-3433, www.graingercountytomatofestival.com

JULY 2668TH ANNUAL RED CARPET HORSE SHOW OF THE SOUTHGiles County Agricultural Park, Pulaski – One of the largest one-night horse shows in Tennessee. CONTACT: Robert Brindley Jr., (931) 363-2644, www.gilescountytourism.com

JULY 26SWISS HERITAGE CELEBRATIONStampfli Farm, Gruetli-Laager – The celebration provides a flavor of what life was like for the early settlers on this 33-acre farm. Homesteaded in 1870, the farm still has the original residence, frame corn crib, sweet potato house and other vintage farm buildings. Features music, home-cooked food, hayrides and farming demonstrations with antique farm equipment. CONTACT: Swiss Heritage Celebration, (703) 622-7895, www.swisshistoricalsociety.org

Enjoy rides, livestock exhibits, food, crafts, contests and entertainment at the Wilson County Fair beginning Aug. 15 in Lebanon.


JULY 26-27MONTEAGLE MOUNTAIN MARKET OF ARTS & CRAFTSHannah Picket Memorial Park, Monteagle – Show and market featuring handmade and home-produced arts & crafts. CONTACT: Chamber of Commerce, (931) 924-5353, www.monteaglechamber.com

augustAUGUST 7-9INTERNATIONAL ROCK-A-BILLY MUSIC FESTIVALJackson – The world’s largest gathering of Rock-a-Billy artists and musicians, featuring the pioneers of Rock-a-Billy music as well as developing artists. CONTACT: Henry Harrison, (731) 427-6262, www.rockabillyhall.org

AUGUST 7-10127 CORRIDOR SALE – WORLD’S LONGEST YARD SALEFrom Gadsden, Ala., to Covington, Ky. – Nationally known series of sales with everything imaginable, including art, antiques, crafts, quilts, decorative sewing and more. CONTACT: Fentress County Chamber of Commerce, (800) 327-3945, www.127sale.com

AUGUST 8-930TH ANNUAL BELL WITCH OLD-TIME BLUEGRASS COMPETITIONBell School Grounds, Adams – Includes a bluegrass music competition, clogging competition and more. CONTACT: Adams Community Club, (615) 696-2593, www.adamstennessee.com

AUGUST 8-10DAVID CROCKETT DAYSDavid Crockett State Park, Lawrenceburg – This pre-1840s rendezvous includes shooting competitions, traders, games, music, food and more. CONTACT: David Crockett State Park, (931) 762-9408, www.state.tn.us/environment/parks/DavidCrockettSP/

AUGUST 9-10SOUTHEASTERN INDIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVALChucalissa Museum, Memphis – Come and enjoy the weekend learning about the Southeastern tribes that once lived here in this area. Enjoy the various types of dances and a game called stickball. CONTACT: (901) 785-3160

AUGUST 9-17ELVIS WEEKMemphis – A celebration of the music, movies and life of Elvis Presley. Fans from around the world gather to celebrate through dances, charity events, conferences, concerts, sporting events and more. The week also includes the annual candlelight vigil on the night of August 15. CONTACT: Graceland, (800) 238-2000, www.elvis.com

AUGUST 15-23WILSON COUNTY FAIRJames E. Ward Agricultural Center, Lebanon – Tennessee’s largest county fair includes crafts, rides, contests, livestock, entertainment and food. CONTACT: Fair Office, (615) 443-2626, www.wilsoncountycvb.com

AUGUST 16FEAST WITH THE BEASTSKnoxville Zoo – The zoo offers adults an interesting environment to enjoy live entertainment and sample foods and beverages from more than 40 area restaurants and vendors. CONTACT: Teresa Collins, (865) 637-5331, Ext. 302, www.knoxville-zoo.org

AUGUST 17DAVY CROCKETT’S 222ND BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONCrockett Tavern Museum, Morristown – Includes refreshments, children’s activities and tours of the museum. CONTACT: Crockett Tavern Museum, (423) 587-9900, www.discoveret.org/crockett

AUGUST 23SOUTHERN BREWERS FESTIVALDowntown Riverfront, Chattanooga – One of the city’s most anticipated gatherings, with good reason. Wet your whistle on more than 40 different brews as vendors from around the world serve up their best. Several local cafes are also on hand to provide a variety of culinary delights. CONTACT: Chattanooga Kids on the Block, (423) 757-5259, www.southernbrewersfest.org

AUGUST 29-31AFRICAN STREET FESTIVALJackson Fairgrounds Park, Jackson – This event promotes awareness with entertainment, workshops, educational seminars and more. CONTACT: Society for African American Cultural Awareness, (731) 267-3212, www.saaca.com

AUGUST 29-31REGGAE FESTIVALTurtle Town – Features local and regional talent, including The Natti Love Joys, a dynamic blend of reggae, modern rhythm and blues mixed with drum, bass, hip-hop and jazz. Caribbean food and international vendors on site. CONTACT: Camp Raggae, (423) 496-9370, www.campreggae.net

AUGUST 3016TH ANNUAL CRAPE MYRTLE FESTIVALArdmore – Crafts, live entertainment, children’s games, specialty foods and more. CONTACT: Giles County Tourism Foundation, (931) 363-3789, www.gilescountytourism.com

AUGUST 30SWINGFESTCoolidge Park, Chattanooga – This event features four performances by some of Chattanooga’s largest swing orchestras. A wooden dance floor is set up in front of the stage to encourage every generation to demonstrate their love of swing dancing. CONTACT: Chattanooga Downtown Partnership, (423) 265-0771, www.downtownchattanooga.org

AUGUST 30-31FRANKLIN JAZZ FESTIVAL Franklin – Includes jazz, blues and dixieland. CONTACT: Heritage Foundation, (615) 591-8500, www.historicfranklin.com

AUGUST 30-31MUSIC CITY J.A.M.Nashville – The melodious sounds of jazz, blues, reggae, funk, soul and R&B will be featured in a musical collage for all to enjoy at Riverfront Park. CONTACT: Convention & Visitors Bureau, (800) 657-6910, www.visitmusiccity.com

AUGUST 30-31MEMPHIS MUSIC & HERITAGE FESTIVALCenter for Southern Folklore, Memphis – A Labor Day tradition with five stages of Memphis’ top musicians and more. The festival takes place on Main Street between Gayoso and Peabody Place. CONTACT: (901) 525-3655, www.memphismusicandheritagefestival.com


connect to tennessee products

A roundup of favorite finds

HOMEMADE PIES IN MINUTESDenise Caffey of Woodbury has always received rave reviews and requests for her chocolate pies, and she thought there must be a way to make some money without cooking all the time. Her answer? Pie mixes. Now her company, Down-Home Fixin’s (www.piemix.com), makes “bagged pies,” cleverly packaged microwaveable filling mixes for favorites like chocolate, lemon, chess and buttermilk pies – and even chocolate gravies.

Her all-natural pie mixes can be found in all Tennessee Publix grocery stores, along with some Whole Foods Market stores and specialty shops such as The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge. The mixes take about 15 minutes to make – just add the liquid ingredients, mix, microwave and add to an oven-browned pie shell. Now Caffey is working on pie-mix recipes for people with diabetes. Down-Home Fixin’s is headquartered on the family’s 80-acre Rivers Edge Farm. Each bag makes one pie and sells for $4.

SEND US YOUR FAVORITESIf you know of a great Tennessee-made product, we’d love to hear from you. Send the name of the item, a brief description and contact information to [email protected] – or send a sample to TN Connections editor, 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, Tenn., 37067.

MEMORIES FROM THE MIDWAYSue Nichols of Pegram has worked in the amusement industry since 1981, and she’s still drawn to the heady sights and smells of the midway. These days she captures images from amusement parks, carnivals and fairs in watercolor, and she also paints traditional landscapes, houses, barns and storefronts. “I think people respond to the nostalgic quality of my watercolors, the sort of dreamlike features, even though my work is pretty detailed,” she says. “The subjects and the bright colors bring smiles to a lot of faces and memories to many more.” Nichols’ work has received some exciting exposure recently: Six of her rural Tennessee scenes appear in a café scene in Quentin Tarantino’s 2007 Grindhouse movie, and four of her designs were licensed for a scrapbooking catalog. Her original prints are for sale, and many have been

reproduced on note cards, prints, ceramic and wooden tile boxes and more. Nichols accepts commissions for just about everything except people. Prices range from about $25 for the tile merchandise items up to $800 for a commissioned large painting. Check out Nichols’ work on her Web site, www.5centride.com.

SPICY SAUCES WITH A TWISTGrilling season is in full swing, and Tennessee has plenty of great home-grown sauces to spice up your meal. If you have an adventurous soul, check out Tennessee Gourmet’s Hot Apple and Spice sauces. These unique all-natural sauces – useful for grilling, marinating and dipping – come in a range of intensities, moving from Sensible to Sneaky Hot to the award-winning Stupid Hot. They also have an apple base – a new twist for barbecue fans. Check the Web site, www.tngourmetsauce.com, for attractive custom gift boxes, as well as specialty barbecue cookbooks and a selection of snappy sauces, jellies and salad dressings with all-natural ingredients based on apples, apricots, peppers, roasted peanut oil and spices – with habanero and Scotch bonnet peppers in the hotter versions. The Web site also offers recipes for main dishes, sides, desserts and appetizers. Sauces are in the $7 price range.

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Summer Energy-Saving TipsCool Off Your House and Your Energy BillsLooking for ways to beat summer’s heat? Try these tips to stay cool without breaking your budget.

■ Running ceiling fans allows you to set your thermostat four degrees higher without a noticeable difference in comfort. For every degree above 72 degrees, you save 1 to 3 percent on your summer electric bill.

■ Close blinds during the day to keep out solar heat.

■ Be cool in the kitchen. Do your cooking with countertop appliances, in the microwave or on the grill rather than firing up the stove or oven.

■ Save heat- and humidity-generating chores like laundry and running the dishwasher for nighttime.

■ Try “hanging out.” Instead of using your electric dryer, line-dry your clothes outside and save up to 5 percent on your bill.

■ Speaking of laundry, always use the cold-water setting to rinse clothes. This can cut your bill by 4 percent.

■ Get the dish on dishwashers. Using the air-dry cycle will cool off your kitchen and save on energy.

■ Electronically yours … Laptop computers use up to 90 percent less energy than desktop models. For more savings, be sure to switch your computer to sleep mode or turn off the monitor when it’s not in use.

■ Get unplugged. Seventy-five percent of power consumed by home electronics occurs while products are turned off. Turn off power strips or unplug devices to eliminate phantom power usage (and reduce the heat these products generate).

■ Compact fluorescent light bulbs produce about 75 percent less heat than standard bulbs, and they last 10 times longer and use 75 percent less energy. Install Energy Star qualified CFLs in your most-used fixtures for big savings.

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