The DTC JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 CONNECTION PLAYER OF THE YEAR Carson Hackett is at the TOP of his game

ENERGIZED BY INNOVATION RELAX AND UNWIND Fiber helps Smithville Electric Vacation destinations for control costs Valentine’s Day INDUSTRY NEWS

Rural Connections

BY SHIRLEY BLOOMFIELD, CEO NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association Promoting rural entrepreneurship Stream on! More than half of U.S. homes use streaming ntrepreneurs, those brave indi- viduals willing to take a chance on for never-ending entertainment an idea to start a business, are an Eimportant part of any thriving economy. We’ve seen rural entrepreneurship in particular become a key to sparking development in downtowns and invigo- rating communities. egardless of location, high-speed WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT IT? Indeed, attitudes are changing about internet brings endless entertain- Variety: Whether you’re looking for where someone can be an entrepreneur. ment options. More so than ever reruns of “The Dick Van Dyke Show” When people think of startups, they Rbefore, viewers have options for high- or original streaming-only content like often envision cities like New York, quality programming through streaming Netflix’s “Stranger Things” and Amazon Austin or San Francisco. Big cities are no devices and services. Prime’s “All or Nothing,” it’s all online. longer the only locations where start- Streaming is an entertaining addition Simplicity: Streaming devices and ups can thrive thanks to low costs, an to traditional television services. Nearly streaming services are simple to set up eager workforce and the availability of 60 percent of U.S. TV homes have at least and require little to no technical know- broadband. one internet-enabled device capable of ledge. Networks like the one your local telco streaming to a TV set, according to a Affordability: Streaming devices like has built provide a critical link for new recent survey by The Nielsen Company. AppleTVs are typically less than $180, and existing businesses. Through the while some Roku models are about $40. power of broadband, any rural area is HOW POPULAR ARE STREAMING Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu a possible hotbed for entrepreneurial DEVICES? are about $10 per month or more.  activity. Since June 2016, streaming devices New rural businesses can connect with have grown by 12 percent. STREAMING DEVICE EXAMPLES: suppliers, customers and peers in ways Apple TV, Google Chromecast, that were impossible just a few years ago. WHAT IS A STREAMING DEVICE/ Amazon Fire TV, Roku, a video game Robust fiber optic networks allow for STREAMING SERVICE? console or smart TV. companies to hire remote workers, share A streaming device is a gadget that STREAMING SERVICE EXAMPLES: big files with designers or engineers, and uses the internet and allows viewers to Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, hold virtual meetings through videocon- connect to content online. A streaming YouTube and HBO Now. ferences. service is a downloadable app that lets Being an entrepreneur is not for every- users watch content online. 69.5 MILLION U.S. TV homes have at one. It takes patience, drive and energy, a least one internet-enabled stream- positive attitude, and a high tolerance for WHY DOES IT MATTER? ing device. risk. But I’m glad that today when those While traditional TV services are 39 MILLION U.S. TV homes have an type of people look at rural America, still crucial, at the touch of a button, internet-enabled game console. they now see opportunities thanks to streaming offers limitless entertainment. 6.5 MILLION U.S. homes have a hardworking NTCA members like your Streaming allows viewers to watch what- streaming device, game console and local telco.  ever content they choose, when and how smart TV. they want. Source: The Nielsen Company

2 | January/February 2018 More Americans are getting their news to go

BY DREW WOOLLEY

n today’s world, everyone is connected all the time. That’s changed the way we communicate, WATCH OUT FOR FAKE NEWS shop and even get our news. A recent report Ifrom the Pew Research Center took a closer look at how people’s news habits are changing and the sur- One of the biggest drawbacks of online news is that prising groups driving the growth of mobile news. it can be difficult to tell which sources are reliable and which are not. Since the FBI announced Russia’s Online news is closing the gap with TV. Today, 43 percent of efforts to spread false stories during the 2016 Americans get their news online, just 7 percent fewer than those election, it’s more important than ever to protect who say they get it on TV. That’s less than half of the 19-point gap yourself against unreliable information. that existed in 2016, meaning the internet could soon become most people’s primary news source. »» Start with the facts. News on mobile is still growing. In 2017, 45 percent of adults in the A recent Buzzfeed analysis of CNN, ABC News and Politico U.S. regularly got news from a mobile device, a 9 percent increase found the vast majority of the news outlets’ reporting to be from 2016 and more than double the percentage in 2013. And while truthful. Subscribing to a reputable newspaper or magazine many of those people also turn to a desktop or a laptop computer for can be a good first step to inoculating yourself against fake news, nearly two-thirds prefer a mobile device. news.

Mobile news growth is being driven by older adults. About 85 »» Step outside your bubble. percent of adults get news from a mobile device, an increase of 13 People tend to consume media inside echo chambers that percent from 2016. That increase is mostly made up of those 65 and confirm their beliefs. Whether it’s a group of friends or your older whose mobile news consumption jumped 24 points to 67 per- social media feed, take some time to break out of your cent in 2017. For those aged 50 to 65, 79 percent of people get news normal news habits and challenge your views. from a mobile device, about twice as many as in 2013. »» Think like a fact-checker. The best way to get to the bottom of any subject is to dig Two-thirds of the country gets news from social media. A small deep. Read as many sources as you can and check sites like increase in the overall consumption of news on social media from Snopes or Politifact that specialize in verifying popular news 2016 to 2017 was spurred by a significant uptick among people 50 stories. and older. Now, more than half of Americans older than 50 get news on social media. 

January/February 2018 | 3

FROM THE CEO The DTC CONNECTION Meaningful opportunities JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 VOL. 6, NO. 1 The DTC Connection is published by DTC Communications, © 2018. It is in the new year distributed without charge to all members of the cooperative. here’s just something about flipping over the calendar to a brand-new year. It inspires and encourages me knowing all the potential that lies ahead of us in the next 12 months. DTC Communications is a member-owned T Looking to the new year, we often forget any lingering negatives, telephone cooperative established in 1951. and 2018 seems like the year in which we can reach our goals: finish The cooperative supplies communica- that degree, lose that weight, earn that promotion, chase that dream, tion, entertainment, and security products improve that relationship or finish that project. and services to residential and business On behalf of DTC Communications, I wish you well in reach- customers primarily throughout Middle Tennessee. ing your goals this year. Know that whenever those goals involve telecommunications technology, we are committed to providing state-of-the-art solutions. DTC is prepared to help in making good Send address corrections to: things happen for you, your family and your career. DTC Communications P.O. Box 247 • 111 High Street CHRIS TOWNSON This year at DTC, we have our sights set on some major goals. As Chief Executive Officer Alexandria, TN 37012-0247 with everything we do, we believe that achieving these goals will Telephone: 615-529-2151 help us operate more efficiently, support our local economy, deliver better service, and ultimately serve you better. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Here is what we have planned for 2018: Roy N. Pugh, Auburntown ƒƒUpgrade and connect hundreds of new and existing members to DTC’s new fiber optic President Bennie Curtis, Alexandria lines in portions of the Woodbury, Milton and Norene exchanges. Vice President ƒƒInstall approximately 300 new miles of fiber optic lines in portions of the Milton, Norene, Randy Campbell, Liberty Smithville and Auburntown exchanges. Treasurer Terry McPeak, Norene ƒƒBroaden cybersecurity defense systems to better protect our networks. Secretary ƒƒBolster core-network equipment providing faster, more reliable services. James H. Dillard, Jr., Gordonsville Director ƒƒProduce and air dozens of new exclusive community-based programs, including sporting Jim Vinson, Milton events, parades, pageants, programs and more — all available only on DTC3. Director Ronald Garrison, Smithville ƒƒContinue to fight unreasonable price increases by TV programmers and network affiliates. Director ƒƒExpand commercial and enterprise solutions for businesses small and large. Kurt Bass, Temperance Hall Director ƒƒGrow security burglar alarm and security camera systems to residential and business cus- Michael Alexander, Woodbury tomers. Director David L. Parker, Woodland As you can see, we may have just opened up a new calendar on Jan. 1, but there’s already a Director busy schedule ahead of us. I look forward to sharing updates with you on these projects in the Chris Townson pages of this magazine throughout the year. While we have plans in place to execute our goals CEO listed above, we’re also constantly looking for opportunities to better fulfill our mission and give you a better experience with our services. I think those unknown opportunities that lie ahead of Produced for DTC by: us are part of what makes this time of year so special. I hope you and your family enjoy all of the promise that 2018 brings, and I’m thankful to have the opportunity once again to keep you connected. 

On the Cover: Smith County High School quarterback Carson Hackett was named DTC Player of the Year. He is the second Owl chosen for the award. See story Page 8. Photo courtesy of Kathy Piper.

4 | January/February 2018 DTC EMPLOYEES HONORED

Cheryl Nixon, a DTC engineering clerk and 30-year employee, received the 2017 Chester Patter- son Award, which is based on nominations by co-workers. Employees with at least 10 years of ser- vice are eligible, and 53 people were nominated. In her time with DTC, Nixon has served in several positions. During the awards ceremony, DTC Chief Executive Officer Chris Townson said, “Cheryl is respected among her peers and a consummate professional. She takes her job seriously and produces at a high level on a consistent basis. We are thankful for Cheryl’s commitment to DTC and to our members.”

Tim Patton, who joined DTC in 1988 as communications controller, was named the 2017 Employee of the Year. The recipient is selected by the senior management team. “I’ve seen Tim in action when we were experiencing trouble on our network,” Townson says. “Not only does Tim jump into action and handle the situation with a calm demeanor, but also the guys working around him look to him for guidance. They recognize his experience and expertise.”

Scholarships available DTC Scholarship 615-215-2191 DTC is accepting applications for the 2018 DTC Scholarship in Memory of McAllen Foutch. High school seniors who are active members of DTC, or whose parents or guardians are active members, are eligible to apply. Applications are due by the close of business March 1. Application forms are available in the guidance counselor’s office at all area high schools and at www.dtccom.net. Applications can be mailed to: DTC, Attn: Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 247, Alexandria, TN 37012-0247, or delivered in person to a DTC customer service office in Alexandria, Gordonsville, Smithville or Woodbury.

FRS Scholarship DTC is pleased to partner with NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association to award a Foundation for Rural Service scholarship to eligible seniors. If a student from the DTC service area receives one of the $2,000 FRS scholarships, DTC will contribute an additional $500 to that winner. FRS also has four $5,000 Staurulakis Family Scholarships, with a preference for students majoring in science, math, engineering or medicine. One $1,500 TMS scholarship, one $7,000 Everett Kneece “Return to Rural America” scholarship, and three $500 Roger Alan Cox Memorial Scholarships will also be awarded. Applications for the FRS scholarships are available through the school guidance counselor, or they can be downloaded from frs.org. Each application must have the signature of DTC’s CEO to qualify.

615-563-2435 Hurry, the deadline for Find your number nominations is Feb. 28! and win a prize! ƒƒVisit BroadbandBuildsBusiness.com A prize may be waiting for you Help us find our ƒƒComplete the online nomination in this issue! We have randomly Small Business form selected the telephone numbers of ƒƒShare the link on Facebook and 10 lucky DTC members and hidden of the Year! Twitter them throughout this publication. Find your number and call ƒƒEncourage others to nominate 615-683-1010 to claim your prize! their favorite small business

DTC Communications January/February 2018 | 5 TRAVEL

A getaway to

The Main Inn at Beaumont Inn was built in 1845 and offers the perfect ambiance for a ROMANCE night of romance. Photo courtesy of Beaumont Inn.. of Beaumont courtesy Photo

omance can happen Beaumont Inn wherever you are. 638 Beaumont Inn Drive, Harrodsburg, Kentucky Named one of the South’s most charming inns, Beaumont, in the heart of horse But add a wonder- country, has drawn couples from around the region for 99 years. Harrodsburg, the Rful dinner and beautiful oldest town in Kentucky, offers history and charm. The inn follows suit, adding all the modern amenities you would expect, including comfortable linens, free Wi-Fi surroundings, and you’ve and cable TV in the 31 guest rooms and the suites located in Beaumont’s three upped the ante. Here are buildings — Goddard Hall, circa 1935; Greystone House, circa 1931; and the Main Inn, some suggestions for hotels, circa 1845. Breakfast is included in your stay and is served every morning. inns, lodges and resorts that gg Where to eat: The inn features two dining options. The Main Dining Room know what it takes to cre- received the prestigious America’s Classic Award from the James Beard Foun- dation in 2015 and serves classic dishes, including corn pudding, country ham ate a memorable getaway, and fried chicken. The Owls Nest Lounge serves wines and cocktails, along with whether it’s a Valentine’s appetizers and entrees. In town, step back in time for a burger or pot roast at Kentucky Fudge Company, 25 S. Main St. Or if you’re looking for a taste of Mexico, retreat or simply some reasonable prices and killer enchiladas, try La Fonda, 121 S. Main St. much-needed time away to gg Rates and reservations: $120-$196, weeknights; $133-$208, weekends. Contact 859-734-3381 or beaumontinn.com recharge.

6 | January/February 2018 Mountains. Cabins and cottages are most romantic inns by Travel and Leisure. equipped with wood-burning fireplaces Choose a guest room in the inn or a and kitchens stocked with fruits and private cottage, several of which are other treats. Many have hot tubs, too. pet-friendly and all of which offer views And all offer great porches with rocking of the surrounding pasture or mountains. chairs where you can relax and view the All accommodations have whirlpool tubs wooded hillside and other surroundings. or hot tubs. If weather permits, ask the front desk gg Where to eat: Breakfast is included to deliver a gourmet picnic basket, and in your stay at Red Horse. In nearby then find a quiet spot in the Smokies to Saluda, North Carolina, The Purple relax with that special someone. Onion, 16 E. Main St., offers live blue- gg Where to eat: You don’t have to leave grass on Thursdays and Saturdays and the property to find one of the best Mediterranean-inspired pizzas, seafood restaurants in the area, Dancing Bear and pastas nightly. Appalachian Bistro. Executive chef gg Rates and reservations: $175-$325 per Shelley Cooper brings gourmet dining night, depending on accommodations. to the mountains, with farm-to-table Contact 864-909-1575 or specialties such as cast-iron beef ten- www.theredhorseinn.com. derloin with loaded potato casserole, Overlook Pavilion at Gorham’s Bluff is a seasonal vegetables, wild mushrooms Stag Leap Country Cabins beautiful place to say “I do” or renew your and house-made steak sauce. Reserva- 2219 FM 2782, Nacogdoches, Texas vows with the one you love. tions are strongly suggested during Nestled deep into the woods of East popular times, such as Valentine’s Day. Texas, Stag Leap is the ideal secluded Gorham’s Bluff The resort’s Apple Valley Cafe offers place for a romantic getaway. There are A getaway to 100 Gorham Drive, Pisgah, Alabama casual dining, breakfast through din- seven cabins, ranging in size from one Choose a room with a fireplace, ner. In nearby Maryville, restaurants bedroom to three. All cabins have full antique furnishings and other beauti- run the gamut from fast food to white kitchens and charcoal grills, so you can ful trappings or a private cottage that tablecloth. bring your own food or dine in Nacogdo- offers all the amenities of home without ggRates and reservations: $160-$300 per ches just 2 miles away. Cabins also have all the distractions. Gather family on night. Contact 800-369-0111 or wireless internet and satellite televi- ROMANCE the bluff and say your vows for the first www.dancingbearlodge.com. sion. For some fresh air, step outside time, or renew your vows in the wedding and enjoy the 200 acres of woodlands pavilion overlooking the Tennessee River Red Horse Inn and waterways right outside your door. from atop Sand Mountain. Gorham’s 45 Winstons Chase Court, Landrum, South Most cabins have whirlpool tubs, inside Bluff is the go-to place in the mountains Carolina or out, and gas or electric log fireplaces of North Alabama to experience luxury, Plan your escape to Red Horse Inn in for romantic ambiance. Also, a private, privacy and romance. the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. centrally located hot tub for six, or just gg Where to eat: Most meals are served The inn was chosen as one of America’s the two of you, may be reserved. in The Lodge at Gorham’s Bluff. Break- gg Where to eat: Creekside Cafe at Pine fast is made to order, box lunches can Creek Lodge, 341 Pine Creek Road, be delivered to your room, and three- is next door to Stag Leap and offers or four-course dinners by candlelight gourmet dining in a casual atmo- are offered each evening. sphere. Try the rabbit Dijonnaise or gg Rates and reservations: 256-451-8439 grilled rib-eye. And it’s said that the or gorhamsbluff.com/the-lodge. Suites catfish at Clear Springs Restaurant, begin at $155 per night. 211 Old Tyler Road, is the best on the planet. Dancing Bear Lodge gg Rates and reservations: $140-$195 7140 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, per night (cash discounts offered). Townsend, Tennessee Contact www.stagleap.com or 936- You’d be hard-pressed to find a more 560-0766.  scenic, romantic getaway in Tennessee The Red Horse Inn was named one of America’s than Dancing Bear near the Great Smoky most romantic inns by Travel and Leisure. Photo courtesy of Red Horse Inn. of Red Horse courtesy Photo

January/February 2018 | 7 On 615-273-3399 track Smith County’s Carson Hackett named Player of the Year From left, Smith County High School BY LISA SAVAGE Head Coach Mike Dickerson and Carson Hackett, football Player of the Year, accept awards from Tom mith County High School Duggin of DTC Sports. quarterback Carson record in regular season and a 4-1 mark the awards to Hackett and Dickerson. “I’m Hackett is a leader on and in Region 4-3A. Behind Hackett, the Owls very blessed to receive this award,” Hackett Soff the field. But it’s his perfor- made a run at the Class 3A State Quarterfi- says. nals with a 2-1 playoff record. Dickerson says the recognition is an mance on the field that led his Hackett completed 201 of 286 passes for honor for Hackett, but also an honor for the team to its first region champi- 1,886 yards and 23 touchdowns during the school. “We’re very appreciative to DTC for onship in years. regular season. Hackett also rushed for 879 the award,” the coach says. yards on 163 carries, an average of 5.4 yards This year marked the second time a Hackett was chosen as Player of the Year per carry, and seven more touchdowns. Smith County High School football player by DTC Communications, which selects an has won the DTC Player of the Year outstanding player from the DTC service DEFENSE, TOO accolade. Former Owl running back and area annually. In addition to his 3,350 yards of total linebacker, Jalen Manning, won the award Hackett, the son of Lance and Angela offense and 40 touchdowns, Hackett also in 2013. Hackett, has played football since he was in recorded 43 tackles on defense, recovered a Other past winners include Lucas Phillips third grade. He likes other sports and has fumble and made one interception. (2012) and Steven Jennings (2014 & 2015) played basketball and baseball through the “He’s intelligent and makes good deci- of DeKalb County High School and Seth years. “Football is my first love,” the senior sions,” Dickerson says. “He’s a great player, Price (2016) of Watertown High School. says. but more importantly, he’s a very good “DTC Communications is proud to con- He was on the varsity squad as a fresh- young man. He’s a leader on and off the tinue its longstanding support of its com- man and played safety most of the time. field.” munities and the athletic programs within The starting quarterback was a senior that He hopes to play football in college, but these communities,” says Chris Townson, year, and Hackett was the backup. an education will be his primary focus. He chief executive officer at DTC Communica- plans to get a degree in communications tions.  TAKING CONTROL and hopes to be a sports broadcaster. “I By his sophomore year, Hackett was the love football, but an education will take you starting quarterback. “He’s close to being further in life than football,” he says. He’s a great player, but the all-time yardage leader,” Head Coach  Mike Dickerson says. “He’s a big part of SCHOOL HONORS more importantly, he’s the reason we’ve had a winning season and In addition to Hackett’s individual award, a very good young man. made the playoffs.” DTC Communications presented Dick- Last season was the first time the Owls erson and the Owl football program with He’s a leader on and off have been region champs since 2011. $500 for having this year’s DTC Communi- the field.” Hackett’s efforts, combined with those of cations Player of the Year. — Mike Dickerson his teammates, led the Owls to a 9-4 overall Tom Duggin of DTC Sports presented Head Coach 615-597-2157

8 | January/February 2018 DTC Communications Not only has Edward Lawrence been a member Jana Crook serves lunch to honored guests of DTC for more than 50 years, but he is also during the luncheon. retired from DTC after 25 years of employment. 615-529-2755

Area residents who have been customers of DTC for more than 50 years attend a luncheon hosted by DTC at the DeKalb Community Complex in Smithville. Cooperative spirit DTC honors customers with service for 50 years or more

BY SUSAN BAIN AND LISA SAVAGE

uby Crawford who are the foundation of the Gracie Henley first had a It’s these kinds of stories and remembers the company. crank-style phone, too. She the spirit of the members who The Rev. Ronnie Smith, got her first phone in 1944. have had service for more than crackling sound pastor at New Hope Baptist Once she was on a party line, 50 years that inspire the DTC Rof the radio. That was Church, said the prayer at the though, Henley learned the team. the clue that someone luncheon. He also is a longtime etiquette to follow. Cooks “It is such a great honor to customer. didn’t want to give their secrets attend the luncheon celebrat- was listening in on the Smith was 12 years old away, so “you never shared a ing the great folks who have party line. “You knew when his family signed up for recipe over the party line,” she been DTC members for 50 then not to talk about service on the new DTC party says. years or more,” says Chris something you didn’t line to replace their crank Edward Lawrence got his Townson, DTC chief execu- phone. He still remembers how first telephone with DTC in tive officer. “The DTC board want everybody to to use the crank phone, turn- 1960 and went to work with of directors, employees and I know,” she says. ing the handle one full rotation the company nine years later. could not be more privileged and four half-rotations — one He shared stories of his days as to pay tribute to such great Crawford got her first phone long and four shorts. a lineman during the lun- men and women. These won- in 1963 and was on a party line “When all eight lines were cheon. Every year during dove derful individuals understand for several years. In those days, in use and someone needed hunting season, repairs had to the cooperative spirit and what that’s how most people learned to make another phone call, be made to the lines because of it means to join together to what was happening in the they would tell the others to damage from gunshots. accomplish what we cannot community. She is one of 313 hang up so the call would go “One repair would take four do ourselves. Because of their DTC customers who have had through,” he says. “If you had hours,” he says. “We would years of cooperative invest- service for at least 50 years. to make a long-distance call, have to solder the lead back ment and ownership, each of For the fifth year, DTC you would have to call the around the line.” Repairs were our families and communities honored those customers at a operator and she would call vital because phone service will benefit for generations to luncheon in October to show you back in 20 minutes when was so crucial in the rural come.”  appreciation for the people the connection was made.” communities.

DTC Communications 615-765-7909 January/February 2018 | 9 Spend

smart You can snap a picture of a printed offer and the app will capture the pertinent information so that you can use it at your favorite retailer. It also allows you to share coupons with your friends or find coupons other users have digitized. in 2018 Many retailers — including Target, Hobby Lobby, Michaels and Walgreens — also have their own apps that offer coupons.

Your guide to the latest ‘TEXTING CLUBS’ Hundreds of companies participate, so odds are that your apps for coupon clipping favorite retailer, convenience store or chain restaurant is ready to send you coupons or deal alerts through a text. Simply check BY LUIS CARRASCO their website or ask a representative the next time you visit. Standard texting rates apply, though, so be careful of signing up f one of your New Year’s resolutions is to finally for too many if you don’t have unlimited texting. start clipping coupons, or to just be smarter with Here are two to get you started: text SUB to 782929 for deals your shopping budget, don’t even bother taking at Subway; text JOIN to 527365 for discounts at JC Penney. Any Iout the scissors — take out your smartphone instead. service you sign up for may be canceled anytime by texting the Whether you like flipping through digital sales circu- word STOP. lars or getting cash back on your purchases, the path MONEY BACK to savings has never been smoother. Both Ibotta and Ebates give you cash back for shopping, but Here’s a quick look at some of the services and they each take a different approach. When you shop through apps available. All apps are compatible with iOS and the Ebates website or app, the company receives a commission Android devices. from the retailer and you get a part of that money, which you can then receive through a check or PayPal. COUPONS With Ibotta, you can either find cash-back rebates before Flipp allows you to browse through weekly sales ads from you shop or check the app after you come back from the store. your favorite retailers — including Home Depot, Toys R Us and Either way, you watch a brief commercial or answer a survey Walmart — or just search to see if an item you want is on sale. and then take a photo of your receipt. The app recognizes the You can also make a shopping list and the app will point you to products on sale and deposits the money into your account, any existing deals. It also notifies you about expiring coupons which you can then receive through PayPal, Venmo or a gift and nearby discounts. card. If you still enjoy searching for bargains in the newspaper, the Whichever app or service you choose, enjoy being a savvy SnipSnap coupon app lets your phone’s camera do the clipping. shopper in 2018! 

10 | January/February 2018 TECHNOLOGY IN THE GOLDEN YEARS Learning the language of tech Enjoy a translator for today’s essential tools

hen people ask and I will introduce you to because they are raised in and so much knowledge that me what I do for a some of my favorite gadgets France is not smarter than many of us will never know or living, one of my that you might find helpful. someone who cannot speak understand. However, I want Wfavorite responses is that I am In the meantime, here are French. We all have knowl- you to have the same opportu- a translator. I translate between some tips to get you started edge, and kids today have nities to learn how to go online the technicians who build our on using technology in your a better understanding of safely and enjoy using technol- networks, fix our computers, golden years. technology because it is part ogy. There are things out there and sell us the latest in tech- gg Remember, it is not your of their everyday lives. that can help keep you safe and nology and those people who fault that you struggle to gg Start by picking technology make your life a little easier. I do not consider themselves understand the language that allows you to do what am looking forward to intro- “techie.” I think learning how of technology. The lingo is you love. If you enjoy playing ducing you to some of these to use technology is very much not your native language, cards or games, choose a things and teaching you about like learning a new language, and it takes time to learn it. tablet that allows you to play the language of technology.  so having a translator is always However, it is up to you to games. If you love creating helpful. take the opportunity to learn crafts, sign up for sites such CARISSA In 2018, my plan is for this whenever you can. as Pinterest to look up ideas SWENSON column to be your transla- gg Ask questions. You may think for woodworking, quilting or IS A TRAINING tor, helping you gain a better your question is trivial, but scrapbooking. AND EDUCATION understanding of everyday you will never learn if you I have so much respect for CONSULTANT FOR CONSORTIA technology. I will cover some don’t ask. We all know that those of you in your golden CONSULTING. basic things you need to know, a child who speaks French years. You have so many skills

Do you want to learn the basics on how to use your smartphone or computer? Are you interested in signing up for a Facebook or Pinterest account? Check out www.gcflearnfree.com for free tutorials on how to do all this and more.

January/February 2018 | 11 615-286-2136 615-683-6973 THE POWER OF FIBER Smithville Electric using fiber internet technology to save on energy costs

BY LISA SAVAGE

ichie Knowles knows County High School, he first worked part one substation to another, and there is the streets in Smithville time at Smithville Electric. In one of his always an alternate power source, Knowles like the back of his hand. first jobs, he helped install the lights at the says. “That helps our city’s economic RHe used to drive from house to football stadium. growth,” he says. “A lot of factories and After he graduated in 1987, he went to other industries are looking for locations house, get out of the truck, and work full time at the company. He has had that have an alternate power source.” read the electric meters. It took about every job at the municipal electric EFFICIENT ELECTRICITY three weeks to read them all in provider. He has worked on the line crew, been a meter technician, a substation tech- A robust system now also includes the Smithville. nician and operations supervisor. Knowles effective use of modern communications Now, he can read every meter — about now is interim manager. “’I’ve seen a lot of technology. The speed and reliability 2,600 — in less than five minutes while changes,” the Smithville native says. of fiber internet allows the company to sitting at his desk at Smithville Electric. Improvements have included infra- monitor every electric account in real The company’s operations are connected structure upgrades. A new $2.5 million time. Before the internet technology through fiber internet available from DTC substation, the second in the system, was a significant part of operations, the Communications. recently went online. That means no company depended on customers to alert It’s the reliable connection and fast more of the citywide power outages that them about power outages. speeds that make the technology used at occurred when the only substation needed “Now we know it immediately, before Smithville Electric Systems so valuable in maintenance or repairs. “We were feeding the customer even has time to call,” providing affordable power to the area. the entire city out of the old one,” Knowles Knowles says. “We can see where the Knowles has watched the system says. problem is and start working on the issue mature. When he was a senior at DeKalb Now, service can be transferred from right then.”

12 | January/February 2018 DTC Communications t Conserve Energy. Save money.

• AIR DRY: Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s drying cycle.

• TURN IT OFF: Use timers and motion detectors to turn off lights, be sure to unplug TV entertainment systems when traveling (use power strips for easy on/off switching), and don’t leave your computer and monitor on needlessly.

• DON’T GET BURNED WITH HOT WATER: Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 120 F. Water heaters are the second highest users of energy in the home.

• FULL LOAD: Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.

• KEEP IT CLEAN: Check furnace, heat pump and AC filters once a month and replace them regularly. A dirty air filter can increase your energy costs and Richie Knowles speaks about cause problems with your equipment. the brand-new substation that Smithville Electric built, which • GET A CHECKUP: Get your heating system checked once a year. A licensed will minimize power outages professional will make sure that your system is operating efficiently and safely. to their customers during routine updates. Checkups can identify problems early. 615-683-6973 • STOP THE BREEZE: Caulk and weather strip around drafty doors and windows. Similarly, there’s no need for an • GET AN AUDIT: Free energy audits can be requested to identify expensive employee to drive to every meter and read energy losses in your basement, unfinished rooms, attics and leaky ductwork. the usage for billing. The information is Sealing your ducts can yield big savings on energy bills and help keep you from recorded automatically through internet turning up the thermostat because of one cold room. technology. The fiber-based technology also allows • FILL THE CRACK: Circle your home with an easy-to-use spray foam insulation Smithville Electric to operate efficiently, 615-237-9204 and look for openings and gaps around pipes, chimneys, lights, windows and keeping rates among the lowest in the basement brick and cement work. Tennessee Valley. The Tennessee Valley Authority, which • GET WITH THE PROGRAM: Install a programmable thermostat that automati- provides Smithville Electric’s power, cally adjusts the temperature during the day or at night, keeping you from requires the company to monitor and forgetting as you dash off to work. A programmable thermostat can save you limit wasted power in the electric grid. up to $100 a year. Failing to meet TVA targets can result in • STAY BRIGHT: As “old-school” incandescent light bulbs burn out, replace them penalties, but the internet-based monitor- with new, light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) and save about $90 a year in elec- ing system allows the electric company tricity costs. You pay more up front, but shop around; prices are dropping. They to operate within the desired ranges. “So use up to 25 percent less energy, can last up to 12 times longer, and light as being able to closely check this saves us well as the old-fashioned ones. tremendously,” Knowles says. “It keeps us out of a penalty.” • BE A STAR: Look for products and appliances that have earned the ENERGY The fiber-based communications system STAR label. They meet strict new energy-efficiency criteria that will reduce also benefits consumers directly. Through your utility bills and help the environment. ENERGY STAR clothes washers, for Smithville Electric’s website, customers example, use approximately 40 percent less water and 25 percent less energy can pay their bill online or check their for washing than standard models. electric activity through the intelaHome energy portal. Customers can save money Source: Consumer Federation of America by tracking real-time electricity usage. “By using the technology available through For more energy-saving information, visit energysaver.gov or energy fiber internet, we’re able to help our cus- star.gov. Smithville Electric’s website is www.smithville-electric.com. tomers save money,” says Knowles. “And that’s a win for everybody.”  615-548-4185 DTC Communications January/February 2018 | 13 SOUTHERN KITCHENS The Secret to perfect BISCUITS

ike a magician in with butter and jam, others are her lab or an art- made into the giant Cinnabarn cinnamon rolls — a house ist in her studio, favorite — crispy fried fruit LPhyllis Cabe stands in pies, crusts for chicken pot pie and other creations. Phyllis Cabe makes her kitchen at The Big 400 to 500 biscuits First and foremost, Cabe daily at The Big Biscuit Barn, where stresses the importance of not Biscuit Barn in Ft. she takes basic biscuit overworking the dough when Oglethorpe, Georgia. dough and turns it into making biscuits. Don’t knead it, she says. delicious masterpieces “Pick the dough up and lay A Biscuit Primer of culinary genius. it over itself six or seven times, Phyllis Cabe, owner Cabe opened her restau- incorporating layers in the of The Big Biscuit rant right outside one of dough, working in a little more Barn, teaches the North Georgia’s most his- flour if the dough feels too basics of biscuit toric towns, Fort Oglethorpe, wet,” she says. “This helps to locally known as the gateway create a fluffier biscuit.” making in classes to Chickamauga and Chatta- Before cutting the dough, let at her restaurant. nooga National Military Park. it proof for about 15 minutes. Winter classes are Because of its location, visitors Once the biscuits are cut and Jan. 13 and Feb. 10. from across the globe hap- on the baking sheet, let them Groups are wel- pen upon this eatery known proof again for another 15 come. For reser- for serving the biggest, best minutes. This, Cabe says, is her vations or more biscuits in town. secret to making good biscuits, information, call “I also have a solid group of and something she discovered 706-861-0000. regulars — people who come by accident. here every day, and some who “Nobody does that,” she says. eat here twice a day,” she says. “And recipes won’t tell you to. don’t need to spend a lot of The Big Biscuit Barn They come for eggs, sausage But I’ve thought this through money on fancy biscuit cut- Where: 1391 Lafayette Road, and biscuits with gravy for a million times, and it makes a ters. Cabe uses a pineapple Rossville, Georgia breakfast. Then, they return difference.” can that’s been cut in half. for fried chicken with garlic- Here are more tips for mak- • Your rolling pin is not a Phone: 706-861-0000 cheese biscuits for lunch, ing biscuits the way it’s done at bulldozer. Very lightly roll Hours: 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday- among other menu offerings. The Big Biscuit Barn: out the dough, sprinkle it Friday, 6 a.m.-noon Saturday Suffice it to say, Cabe knows • If you don’t have White Lily with flour and continue roll- a thing or two about making flour, go get some. Cabe ing lightly to your desired biscuits, an art she learned at swears by it. thickness. FOOD EDITOR her mama’s apron strings and • When using a biscuit cutter, • For tall biscuits with a crispy ANNE P. BRALY IS A NATIVE OF then further developed before go straight down through edge, place a biscuit on the CHATTANOOGA, opening The Big Biscuit Barn the dough without twist- baking sheet so that one side TENNESSEE. in 2007. Now, she makes 400- ing the cutter. “The less you lightly touches the biscuit 500 biscuits daily. While some mess with it, the prettier the next to it. Allow about an are served alongside entrees biscuit,” Cabe says. And you inch of space between rows.

14 | January/February 2018 WHITE LILY BISCUIT DOUGH This recipe is on the back of every bag of White Lily flour. Cabe tweaks it by upping the amount of liquid. “People always add too much flour, so upping the amount of buttermilk compensates for that,” she says.

2 cups White Lily all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup vegetable shortening 7/8 cup buttermilk 1/4 cup butter, melted

Heat oven to 475 F. Combine flour, baking powder and salt in large bowl. Cut in shortening with pastry blender, or two knives, until mixture has a cornmeal texture. Blend in buttermilk with fork. Turn dough onto lightly floured surface. “STUFFED” BISCUITS Fold dough over itself 6-7 times, just until smooth. Roll dough into a 7-inch circle cutter, cut biscuits and place on baking sheet. 1 recipe White Lily biscuit that is 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick. Cut out 7 to Gently press an indention into each biscuit. dough 8 biscuits using a floured 2-inch biscuit Combine chicken and spinach. Place about Cooked meats, such as cutter. You may use larger cutter to make 1 tablespoon mixture into biscuit and bake crumbled sausage or fewer but bigger biscuits. Place on baking at 475 F until lightly browned. Remove from shredded ham sheet so that edges almost touch, leaving oven and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon dressing Mrs. Dash seasoning about an inch of space between rows. mix. Serve immediately with ranch dressing Shredded cheese (your Shape dough scraps into a ball. Pat out for dipping, or make a dip using the remaining choice) to desired thickness. Cut out additional dressing mix and following package directions. Melted butter biscuits. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with butter, if desired. CHICKEN CORDON BLEU BISCUITS Heat oven to 475 F. Roll out dough 1 recipe White Lily biscuit dough to 1/2-inch thickness and cut into Note: Cabe makes the first part of the Chopped chicken (fried, grilled or biscuits using a 2-inch biscuit cutter. recipe (through the shortening) and keeps boiled) Place biscuits on baking sheet and it on hand in the refrigerator. She says the Chopped ham lightly press down the center of each mixture will last three to four weeks. She Provolone cheese, shredded biscuit, making an indention. Place adds the buttermilk right before making Garlic salt meat in the indention and sprinkle her biscuits. Greek seasoning with Mrs. Dash. Bake at 475 F until biscuits are lightly browned. Remove SPINACH-ARTICHOKE BISCUITS Chill dough, then roll out to 1/2-inch thickness. from oven and sprinkle with cheese 1 recipe White Lily biscuit dough Using a 6-inch cutter, cut dough into circles. and drizzle with melted butter. Serve 1 package Hidden Valley spinach- Top each circle with meats, cheese and immediately as an appetizer. artichoke dressing mix seasonings. Fold dough over filling and crimp 2 cups chopped chicken (rotisserie edges of dough with a fork. Deep fry until Note: You can turn these into dessert or fried) golden brown. by stuffing the biscuits with Heath 2 cups chopped spinach, well Bits and drizzling them with your drained Note: Any combination of meats and cheeses favorite chocolate icing after baking. Ranch dressing works with this recipe. Ham and Swiss cheese Or stuff them with cinnamon-sugar- is a good choice. Or try corned beef, Swiss butter and drizzle with confectioner’s Make biscuit dough, adding 2 tablespoons cheese and well-drained sauerkraut for a sugar glaze after baking. dry dressing mix to the dough; roll out to biscuit Reuben served with some Thousand 1/2-inch thickness. Using a 2-inch biscuit Island dressing for dipping. 

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