ConnectedJuly/August 2013 Published for customers of Pickett’s Charge Fyffe’s FFA String Band State Champions
minor leagues Enjoy a day at the ballpark Just peachy Delicious summertime recipes Industry News Growth in the face of uncertainty FCC regulatory changes are creating challenges for rural telecommunications providers planning network expansions By Stephen V. Smith, Editor
n the May/June issue of this magazine, Consumers in these rural markets benefit You don’t just put broadband in and walk Shirley Bloomfield talked about the from this offset in terms of the actual cost away, saying “job well done, now we have Inewly unified NTCA, the associa- of providing that service. It’s important broadband.” There is so much more to tion for which she serves as CEO. In a to note that Universal Service is a support consider. Maybe a provider offers DSL, but continuation of that interview, Bloom- mechanism supported by other carriers. It how do they get to a point where they can field describes how changes in federal is not a tax. It is not government support. do fully interactive service? How do they regulations are creating an atmosphere of It is a fee that other carriers pay into the provide enough bandwidth to allow rural uncertainty among rural telecommunica- Universal Service Fund, or USF. hospitals to do diagnostics using fiber? tions companies. How can they support distance learning Smith: How will rural telecommuni- programs so schools can aggregate and Smith: The telecommunications cations providers be affected by these share their resources? Broadband that was industry is in a state of transition. What cuts and caps to the USF dollars they installed 5 to 10 years ago isn’t going to challenges are rural providers facing? depend on? do the trick. Networks need constant up- Bloomfield: There are regulatory Bloomfield: It’s going to impact grades and new deployment. And there are proceedings going on right now regard- them in two ways. One, they are going to still people in some parts of rural America ing Universal Service, which is regulated have a lot less money, and that’s going to who don’t have access to broadband yet. by the FCC. They have essentially turned mean a lot less investment. Two, the FCC on its head how this regulation works. wants to reassess every single year, which Smith: NTCA and its members work So far, they have cut and capped a lot of means providers won’t know until that hard to strengthen and protect the rural the support the rural telecommunications next year if they are going to be able to telecommunications industry. Why are providers have been getting. recover any of their costs. Providers will these providers so important to the be paralyzed, because the FCC has created rural markets they serve? Smith: What is Universal Service, and this environment of regulatory uncertainty. Bloomfield: I can’t stress enough the how does it work? This is a capital-intensive industry. You importance of local telecommunications Bloomfield: Universal Service can’t make investments if you don’t know providers and what a difference they make allows carriers who provide service in if you can recover your costs. in their rural communities. They are so rural, high-cost areas to essentially have innovative and willing to try new things. support from the rest of the industry to Smith: Are we seeing this impact now They are incredibly creative about the keep their monthly subscription fees low. in the industry? services they offer to their consumers. The Bloomfield: We are. In NTCA people they serve are their neighbors and surveys, several rural telecommunications friends. The idea of customer service is providers have told us they have actually important to them. For the consumer, it’s cut back or eliminated an upgrade to their great to know you can pick up the phone network or an investment in new construc- and get help immediately, or sit down with tion that they had planned on making. folks who know you who can answer your questions as you look at new products. I Smith: Why is it so important for pro- can’t overemphasize what it means to be viders to continually invest in improv- served by a locally owned and controlled Shirley Bloomfield ing and expanding their networks? telecommunications provider in this day NTCA CEO Bloomfield: Telecommunications and age, and what a driver that is for the networks are living, breathing operations. rural economy.
2 | July/August 2013 Do you know Digital the rules of Citizenship the road? By Carissa Swenson
e all know the Internet can kids, but are we making sure they know connect us to the world, but do the rules? After all, there is no Internet Wwe really understand what that “drivers ed” or test to pass. Lifeline means? Understanding the power behind Knowing the rules of digital citizenship that connectivity is critical to becoming a will help young users reap the rewards of ‹‹ safe, productive digital citizen. a connected world. Being a good digital Service What is digital citizenship? It is the citizen means you: “rules of the road” or guidelines we follow • Understand the impact of your digital When you need help paying when interacting with others in the digital footprint and your future for telephone service world. • Know the risks involved with cyber- The Internet is much like the roads we predators, cyber-bullies, sexting and Is your annual household income at or drive on every day. Each connection pro- other high-risk behaviors below 135 percent of the Federal Poverty vides access to people, places and things • Discover ways to protect your identity Guidelines for a household of its size? all over the world. The devices we use to when going online Do you or someone in your household access the Internet, such as smartphones, participate in any of the following low- tablets, computers and gaming units, are raising digital citizens income government assistance programs? much like the cars we drive. Some are As adults, it is our job to teach our If so, you may qualify for Lifeline Service. fancier with more buttons, but they all can young people the rules of the digital road. get us to our destination. They may be able to text under the table • Medicaid Driving a car is a rite of passage that during dinner and customize an iPad in • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance our youth anticipate and even study for. record time, but do they understand the Program (SNAP) They stay awake at night dreaming about ramifications of their digital behaviors? • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) the places they want to go and things they As adults, we don’t need to know how all • Section 8 Federal Public Housing want to see. Meanwhile, parents stay up these pieces of technology work, we just Assistance (FPHA) at night worrying about what their sons need to make sure we are teaching and • Low Income Home Energy Assistance and daughters will do once they have that practicing good digital citizenship. Program (LIHEAP) freedom: Yes, there are risks to accessing the • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families • What if they make poor choices while digital world. And topics like cyberbully- (TANF) behind the wheel? ing, sexting, identity theft and other online • National School Lunch Program’s Free • What if their friends pressure them to risks can make a parent want to keep their Lunch Program do things we don’t approve of? child unplugged. The idea, however, is not To find out whether you qualify for Lifeline assistance, • How are we going to prepare our child to disconnect, but to be aware — and to customers must fill out standard forms, available at your local to become a responsible driver? raise responsible digital citizens. telephone company’s office, as mandated by the Federal and/or State government. Your telephone company is not responsible Despite these concerns, teenagers are for determining who qualifies for these programs or who getting behind the wheel every day. Why In our next issue, Carissa will share ways receives assistance. Customers must meet specific criteria in do parents let their kids drive when there to protect your reputation, because “you order to obtain assistance with their local telephone service, is so much risk? Because the rewards can’t take back what you post online.” and qualifying is dependent upon government-established guidelines. To qualify for Lifeline credit, each customer must ap- outweigh the risks. ply and provide proof that he/she, or a household member for Carissa Swenson whom he/she is financially responsible, participates in at least Rules and rewards is the owner and one of the programs listed above or that the customer meets the income-based requirements. Additional eligibility require- The Internet should be treated the same technology specialist of TechTECS, ments may also apply. Customers must choose to apply the way — yet often we aren’t asking these Lifeline discount to a landline or a wireless number, not both. same types of questions when giving our a technology training, education, For more details about Lifeline Service and youth access to the world via the Internet. to apply for assistance, please contact your consulting and We are buying Web-ready devices for our local telephone company. support company. July/August 2013 | 3 From the General Manager
“We Keep You Connected” is a member-owned corporation Feel deeply dedicated to providing communications technology to the people of Northeast Alabama. The company has more than It’s been an emotional week at the Johnson 15,000 access lines, making it the state’s household. Those of you with children will relate largest telecommunications cooperative.
to this fairly quickly; those of you without will Board of Trustees too but probably a bit differently. Randy Wright, President I just witnessed my youngest child graduate from high school Flat Rock Exchange as the valedictorian of her class. A few days earlier I listened Gary Smith, Vice President to my older son address a group of graduates with a challenge Fyffe Exchange full of wisdom way beyond his years. As if that isn’t enough, my oldest daughter is getting married in a few days. Needless Danny R. Richey, Secretary to say, there is no boredom around our house. The first person Geraldine Exchange to suggest there is will be banished to the garage until repen- Lynn Welden, Treasurer tance is forthcoming. Amidst all of this, a close associate lost Bryant Exchange his father, and I shared in his grief. Quite unexpectedly, a friend popped in with a bit of news that had a significant emotional Kenneth Gilbert Pisgah Exchange impact on me. That story is far too complex to talk about here, but it nonetheless illus- trates just how emotional the week really was. Gregg Griffith Some folks are quite uncomfortable talking about their emotions. I, obviously, am not Henagar Exchange one of them. A fellow church member recently joked that he gets choked up over the Randy Tumlin announcements in the bulletin. I can relate. The following is not an original thought. I Rainsville Exchange would properly credit it better if I could, but my memory fails to adequately connect the several literary sources from which it comes. The principle is this. Sometimes, what exactly we feel is not as important as is the fact that we simply feel at all. Connected There is much truth there. It is, after all, our ability as human beings to feel, and to Vol. 17, No. 4 July/August 2013 feel deeply, about things in our life that add to our humanity. Think for one moment is a bimonthly magazine about those people for whom you hold the most admiration and respect. There is a strong published by Farmers likelihood that you will describe them as quiet and thoughtful people who have relatively Telecommunications Cooperative, © 2013. It is distributed without charge strong feelings about certain things and certain values in life. More often than not, those to all customers of FTC. people who make the greatest difference in their world are those who have managed to find and pursue their passions. Properly focused passion is a powerful motivator. In the context of FTC, we understand that a strong and modern communications infrastructure Farmers Telecommunications is essential to the economic health of our community. Believing strongly in our mission Cooperative, Inc. of improving the quality of life in our communities is a sustaining principle of our leader- P.O. Box 217 ship and employees. It is one of the most important reasons I appreciate and enjoy the 144 McCurdy Ave. N. opportunity to work with them. Rainsville, AL 35986 To wrap it up, I am not suggesting that you wear your feelings on your sleeve all the Telephone: 256-638-2144 time or drool all over the shoulder of anyone who will listen. There are, after all, some www.farmerstel.com things best kept in private. Still, take comfort in knowing that it is perfectly all right to Produced for FTC by: feel and to feel deeply. Perhaps you can forgive me if I occasionally choke up with a www.WordSouth.com grieving friend, swell with pride as a brilliant daughter or an amazing son speaks with ex- treme poise in front of hundreds or, as I am pretty sure will happen, get rather misty-eyed On the Cover: as I escort a beautiful young lady down an aisle even though it’s toward a young man of Members will enjoy whom I totally approve. She is, after all, the person who first taught me what is meant by the progressive the phrase “Daddy’s little girl!” bluegrass sounds of Pickett’s Charge at the FTC Annual Fred johnson Meeting on Aug. 3. Executive Vice President and General Manager See story Page 9. 4 | July/August 2013 FTC awards scholarships Washington Each year, two deserving area students receive a $2,000 scholarship from FTC to help Youth Tour them pursue their educational goals. One scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school student and the other is awarded to a student already attending college. Congratu- FTC sponsored two high school stu- lations to this year’s winners! dents as part of the Foundation for Rural Service Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., in High School College June. This year’s representatives for FTC Winner: Winner: were Heather Boman of Rainsville and Michael Davis Stacey Chaney Rosamaria Luna-Paredes of Higdon. Michael Davis Stacey Chaney is They and their chaperones, Tony and is a 2013 graduate a student at Athens Evelyn Newsome, spent four days tour- of Geraldine High State University, ing some of the most historic sites in School. He was a where she is pursing the nation. They met some members of member of the Beta a bachelor’s degree Congress and learned about the telecom- Club, FFA, FCA in health sciences. munications industry, regulatory agen- and SGA. Michael was an All-County, All- Ultimately, Stacey plans to obtain a doc- cies and the legislative processes. Region, County MVP and All-State football torate in physical therapy. She currently They also visited George Washington’s player. He is attending Jacksonville State works as a physical therapist assistant at home at Mount Vernon, the Smithson- University where he will continue his foot- facilities in DeKalb, Jackson and Marshall ian Museums, the Korea, Vietnam and ball career for the Gamecocks. He plans to counties. She and her husband, Ricky, live World War II Memorials and several other become an educator and coach. in Rainsville and are raising four children. national monuments. “We’re proud to partner with FRS to provide this opportunity for these The Foundation for Rural Services (FRS) awards students,” says Brandi Lyles, FTC manager Two earn 30 scholarships annually to high school students of marketing and public relations. “They living in rural areas around the country. Students come away with a better understanding national are chosen based on their academic achievement of the important role companies like FTC and involvement with their school and community. have in the rural communities they serve.” Two students in FTC’s service area were scholarships recently selected as scholarship recipients. Kyle Nash and Patrick Ryan Gant each received $2,000 through FRS from the FRS and a matching contribution of $500 from FTC to help with college expenses.
Patrick Gant of Pisgah is a 2013 graduate of Pisgah High School. He was active in sports, student government, FFA, 4-H and the school newspaper. Gant is an active community volunteer, helping with numerous community projects includ- ing food drives, tornado relief and Christmas charities. He will Rosamaria Luna-Paredes attend Northeast Alabama Community College in the fall where he plans to earn degrees in computer engineering and business management.
Kyle Nash from Bryant is a 2013 graduate of North Sand Mountain High School. He played football and was on the track team. He was an officer in the Science Club and a member of the Beta Club. He is an active volunteer in his community, helping with tornado relief and food drives and volunteering at the Flat Rock Community Center. Nash will attend Northeast Alabama Community College this fall to pursue a business management degree before transferring to a four-year college. Heather Boman
Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative July/August 2013 | 5 Web-powered summer vacations 8 ways to use the Internet to create an awesome family vacation this summer By Mariann Martin
oes the phrase “family vacation” sor include reviews from people who have stretching visit. Use GPS devices to skip bring back painful memories of visited the places, and can also offer useful all those wrong turns. Dlong, boring drives, dozens of tips and warnings. wrong turns and hotels with an adver- 7 Changing plans tised beachfront view that turned out to 5 Save information If your day trip to the water park gets be a sandy parking lot? If those scenarios Use online resources such as Google Docs rained out, use the Internet to quickly find sound familiar, there is a solution — the or Dropbox to plan your itinerary and the closest kids’ museum or other indoor Internet! Use websites for research and budget your trip. If you are traveling with activity. And if the wait is too long at the booking accommodations online to plan other families, Google Docs allows mul- restaurant you planned to visit, get online the details of your vacation before heading tiple users to share plans and add informa- to check nearby options. out for a relaxed, enjoyable trip with the tion. During your trip, you can access your family. Here are some tips: stored trip details. 8 Savor the memories Once you return home, create an album 1 Plan together 6 On the road on Facebook or a photo sharing website to Get the entire family involved in planning To avoid the infamous “are we there yet?” upload your favorite photos from the trip. your vacation with online exploration. chorus, download apps and activities to a You can share the album with friends and Most states, cities and parks have detailed smartphone or tablet to entertain the kids. family, or click through them on a dreary websites that give an overview of avail- Research historical sites along the way winter day when summer vacations are able activities. Children can click through and stop for a quick educational and leg- only a distant dream. pictures, read about the destination points and pick out places of interest.
2 Be prepared Find out what documents you will need by checking the websites of all the places you plan to visit. Make sure you have the right insurance cards, passports and travel docu- ments before you head out the door. Also check the weather for your destination, so you can pack the proper clothing.
3 Book it Hotels, car rentals and airline tickets can be purchased online, using various web- sites to find deals. Travel experts recom- mend searching at least three booking websites to find the best prices, which are frequently offered at the beginning of the week (especially on Tuesdays).
4 read Reviews Even the most drab hotel can look good in a photo, so use the Internet to learn what other travelers think of the places you plan to visit. Websites such as TripAdvi-
6 | July/August 2013 ➜
First stop on your Places to visit, sights to see vacation: the Internet Summer memories are filled with blue swimming holes, dripping ice Preparation is the key to success cream cones and family vacations. From beaches and mountains to when it comes to family vacations. Here are some state tourism sites to historical downtowns and outer space exploration, the Southeast help you plan your next getaway. abounds in unique spots ideally suited for family trips. These days, a • www.tnvacation.com well-planned and researched family trip begins with a few mouse clicks • www.alabama.travel and a quick review of the endless resources on the Internet. Then set • www.kentuckytourism.com out to make memories in one of these breathtaking locations. • www.discoversouthcarolina.com
Alabama The U.S. Space & Rocket Center • www.rocketcenter.com Visitors to Huntsville’s U.S. Space & Rocket Center trace the history of ventures into space and watch as potential future scientists and astronauts train at the home of America’s space program since the early 1950s. Visitors can “be an astronaut for the day” as they explore a rocket park, education training center and theater. The museum includes space hardware from the first trip to the moon, along with information about the space race, the Apollo missions and the International Space Station. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center Space & Rocket courtesyPhoto of the U.S.
Kentucky Kentucky Derby Museum • www.derbymuseum.org The Kentucky Derby Museum offers visitors a chance to explore Kentucky’s rich horse racing heritage within view of the famed racetrack. The smell of leather and the sound of thundering hooves are recreated through thousands of books, photos, films and racing artifacts housed in the museum. Visitors can also take guided tours for a behind-the-scenes look at Churchill Downs. Photo courtesy of Kentucky Derby Museum Derby courtesyPhoto of Kentucky
South Carolina South Carolina Botanical Garden • www.clemson.edu/public/scbg Take a day away from hectic life to explore beautiful gardens and hike nature trails at the South Carolina Botanical Garden in Clemson. The 295 acres of beauty feature an arboretum, woodlands, streams, managed meadows, turf and shrubs filled with birds, fish and other wildlife. The garden features a geology museum and an art gallery, as well as one of the largest collections of nature-based sculptures in the country. Photo courtesyPhoto Botanical of South Carolina Garden
Tennessee Cades Cove • www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/cadescove.htm Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, photographer, hiker or history buff, Cades Cove should be at the top of your list of places to visit. Part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this broad valley features an 11-mile loop road that presents travelers with stunning mountain vistas; sightings of white-tailed deer, black bear, tur- key and more; and a number of hiking trails. You will encounter several 18th- and 19th- century structures, including churches, barns, log cabins and a working grist mill. Photo courtesy of National Park Service Park courtesyPhoto of National
July/August 2013 | 7 Geraldine You’re on a winning team! Fyffe 2013 Annual Plainview Meeting
Sylvania Saturday, August 3, 2013 Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center Highway 75 North in Rainsville Free stadium blanket • Registration begins at 8 a.m. for the first 1,000 members registered! Ider • Entertainment by Pickett’s Charge begins at 9 a.m. • Business Meeting begins at 11 a.m. • Election for the Board of Trustees: Fyffe and Rainsville Grand Prize: • Door Prizes, including an iPad, 1 year of Advanced NSM Services from FTC! HDTV, Kindle Fire and more! (must be present to win)
Pisgah
8 | July/August 2013 Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative Tom Levi John Jesse Avery
Annual Meeting Entertainment Charged Up! By Kerry Scott Pickett’s Charge headlines FTC’s Annual Meeting Aug. 3
ight harmonies. Gifted musicians. them so much. “In the George family, you and George do most of the group’s song- Outstanding instrumentals. These come out of the womb playing an instru- writing, each member adds his own flavor Tare just a few of the phrases used ment,” jokes Rains. to the song with their music. “Every to describe the five-member progressive Hicks’ ability to write songs, his band member does their own thing with bluegrass group from Fyffe known as smooth lead vocals and talent on the gui- the music to give it their own personal- Pickett’s Charge. tar make him an asset. And no bluegrass ity,” says Hicks. They collectively work FTC members are sure to enjoy a great band would be complete without a banjo out any rough edges until the end result mix of bluegrass, country and gospel as player. Thompson’s picking style helps is something with which they are all this local group provides entertainment wrap the group’s sound into a unique pleased. for this year’s annual meeting. package. Four of the five members graduated John Hicks is lead vocalist and plays One of the reasons for the band’s dis- high school in May. Thompson is a rhythm guitar for the band. Jesse Mc- tinctive sound is their eclectic individual senior. Rains is hopeful that his move to Clendon sings tenor and plays bass. Tom tastes in music. “Because we’re listening Auburn this fall will open more doors for George sings baritone and plays man- to all this different inspiration, it really the group. “It’s going to be tough living dolin. Avery Rains is the lead guitarist creates a different feel,” says McClendon. so far away, but I’m hoping Pickett’s and Levi Thompson is the band’s banjo “If bluegrass was all we listened to all Charge will have some opportunities to picker. day, we’d sound like every other blue- play down there on weekends,” he says. The group got its start about three years grass band you’ve heard. But we bring The group’s single-minded focus at this ago as part of Fyffe High School’s FFA something different to the table because point is to one day play at the Grand Ole String Band. “Our Ag teacher, Mr. Myers, we all have our different tastes in music.” Opry. “As long as we keep our heads on came up with the idea that the school The group puts an individual spin on straight and don’t get stupid, we’ve got should have a string band,” says Hicks. each song they write, too. While Hicks nowhere to go but up,” says Hicks. Performing as the FFA String Band, they have won two district championships, one second-place finish at the state convention and are this year’s State FFA Convention champions. Rains, George and McClendon have been playing music together since they were in 6th grade. George credits his father, Dennis, for teaching the three of
Pickett’s Charge will have their first CD avail- able for sale at FTC’s Annual Meeting. Find the band on Facebook by searching “Pickett’s Charge (Fyffe FFA String Band)” to learn more about them and upcoming performances.
Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative July/August 2013 | 9 hen it comes to big-league rooting alli- ances, Southern baseball fans are mostly Wleft listening to radio broadcasts of teams in faraway cities like Atlanta, St. Louis and Cincin- Minor nati. But the South has plenty of the next-best thing: the minor leagues. The region’s rich baseball playing history and small-town style fit perfectly with the essence of minor league baseball, where teams send younger Attraction players to develop. The South boasts nearly 50 minor league teams, ranging in level from Rookie (just signed their first pro contract) to AAA (one step away from the big time). 0 Here are a few popular places to see a minor-league game in the South, along with their classification and big-league parent club. For a portal to every minor Stars of tomorrow league team’s website, visit www.minorleaguebase- ball.com.
and fan-friendly Nashville Sounds (AAA, Milwaukee Brewers) venues draw crowds Tickets: $15 day-of-game, $12 when purchased in advance. They By Jeremy Wood also offer a family ticket bundle that includes seats, hot dogs and sodas for four at a cost of $56.
At the park: There are six Faith Night promotions Photo courtesy of Nashville Sounds throughout the season, featuring live Christian music prior to the game. Sticking with the religious theme, there will be two “Bible Series” bobblehead give- away nights during the season. The featured statu- ettes? David and Goliath. While you’re in town: The Tennessee State Museum has exhibits covering 15,000 years of human history in the state. Best of all, museum admission is free. H Huntsville (Ala.) Stars (AA, Milwaukee Brewers) Tickets: $8 for adults, $5 for kids under 12 (all tickets are general admission and must be purchased at the ballpark). At the park: An $8 ticket is a good deal for the up- per minors and it allows you to pick from any seat at Joe Davis Stadium. Promotions this year include a bobblehead night on July 27, discounted drinks on Thirst-Aid Thursdays, fireworks and bingo games. Watch for mascot Homer the Polecat, who was cre- ated in honor of a skunk that used to live behind the outfield wall. While you’re in town: Take the money you save on baseball tickets and visit the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
10 | July/August 2013
Chattanooga While you’re in town: If you can’t find Lexington Lookouts a great meal at one of Charleston’s more Legends (AA, Los Angeles Dodgers) than 350 restaurants, you’re not really try- (A, Kansas City Royals) Tickets: Range from $5 ing. Chefs at places from famous staples Tickets: The cheapest for adult general admis- like Hyman’s Seafood to hot new restau- reserved seats are $14 sion to $9 for lower box seats. rants like Macintosh serve up their take on when purchased in advance (add $1 to all At the park: Sitting on the third-base side shrimp and grits, barbecued ribs and more prices day-of-game). offers a better view of the nearby moun- every day. For non-culinary exploration, At the park: Kids receive a voucher for a tains and shade from the setting sun, while your best bet is to ride the ferry to Fort free ballpark meal on Monday night home the first-base side treats you to cars going Sumter for some Civil War history and games. Also, the Legends will have three by on U.S. 27 outside the park. watch for dolphins while you’re on the George Brett bobblehead giveaways this While you’re in town: Have dinner at boat. season, honoring one of the Royals’ all- Big River Grille and Brewing Works for H time greats. a family-friendly menu. It’s a two-block While you’re in town: The Kentucky walk from the restaurant door to the front Tennessee Horse Center is referred to as “Disneyland gate of AT&T Park. If you’re a baseball Smokies for horse lovers.” It features two theaters history buff, Engel Stadium (which is no (AA, Chicago Cubs) and two museums on the grounds. longer used by the Lookouts) has been Tickets: $11/$10 for H open since 1929 and is a must-see. adults/children infield box seats; $6 for all H ages on grass outfield berm. Bowling At the park: Located in Kodak, Tenn., a Green (Ky.) Jackson few miles east of Knoxville, the Smokies Hot Rods (Tenn.) enjoy one of the minors’ more creative (A, Tampa Bay Rays) Generals promotional teams. Movie Mondays Tickets: Highest are (AA, Seattle Mariners) weave great baseball movies into the live $12 for premium box seats; cheapest are Tickets: $10 reserved, game experience, while country music $7 for general admission. $6 general admission. fans can hit Kenny Chesney night on July At the park: The parent At the park: If you can make it for any 19. club, Tampa Bay, has one Dollar Thursday during the season, gen- While you’re in town: The glitz of Dol- of the best reputa- eral admission seats are knocked down lywood and Gatlinburg and the wilderness tions for developing to a single greenback (as are hot dogs, of Great Smoky Mountains National Park minor league talent popcorn, soft drinks and beer). Sarge, the are both just a short drive away. in the business, and Generals’ bulldog mascot, was named by a H some of the Rays’ six-year-old in an online contest. top prospects figure While you’re in town: It’s a good place Rome Braves to be in Bowling for railroad fans, who can visit both the (A, Atlanta Braves) Green this Casey Jones Village and the Nashville, Tickets: Club seats are summer. Chattanooga & St. Louis Railroad Mu- $10 apiece; cheapest is While seum and still make a night game. $4 lawn seating. you’re in H At the park: Romey and Roxie are two of town: If you the biggest, bluest mascots in the minors. love cars, check Charleston Rome also hosts Superhero Night on July out the National (S.C.) Riverdogs 6; dressing up as your favorite superhero Corvette Museum. (A, New York Yankees) is encouraged and Captain America will If the great out- Tickets: $8 to $17 for be in attendance for pictures. doors is more Friday nights, cheaper by While you’re in town: Grab dinner at lo- appealing, enjoy $1 for all other nights except July 4. cal institution Schroeder’s on Broad Street an underground At the park: Joseph P. Riley park was de- in downtown Rome. If you have time for boat tour at the signed by the same architectural firm that sightseeing, visit the campus of nearby Lost River Cave worked on several modern major league Berry College to check out the exqui- & Valley on the stadiums. It is one of the most picturesque site Frost Chapel and a vintage overshot outskirts of locales in the minors. wooden water wheel. town.
July/August 2013 | 11 New look and features for farmerstel.com By Elizabeth Wootten
t’s now even easier to explore all that FTC offers thanks to its times when FTC’s fiber network will reach different parts of the newly redesigned website. A user-friendly interface, improved service area. Inavigation and contemporary layout feature innovative ways to “We wanted our customers to see the progress we have made help users in their online experience. with our fiber network, as well as our goals this year for the proj- One new feature is a link to FTCtv’s local programming. One ect,” Lyles says. can browse through numerous past video clips of “Connected FTC will also offer video tutorials to help answer technical FAQs Life,” “Tech Talk” and more. The search feature provides quick from its customers. The videos will allow customers to view help- access to a particular clip. ful demonstrations of FTC technicians solving common problems, “By offering our local programming online,” says Brandi Lyles, rather than simply reading instructions. marketing director at FTC, “we can reach more people and increase “FTC strives to provide customers with both the latest technol- awareness of this service.” ogy and the information about the best ways to use that technology Another feature that will benefit FTC customers is the Interactive in their daily lives,” says Lyles. “The new website helps us meet Fiber Availability Map. This color-coded map shows the estimated both of those goals. It’s a better, more useful online experience.” ›› Check out some features of FTC’s updated website
The Quick Links banner is where customers can easily log in to their Webmail account, pay their bills and access the online directory. Users can also connect with FTC through Facebook, Twitter and more.
The search bar provides an easy way to locate information. Type a key word or phrase into the search bar, then click go.
The rotating banner shows any specials FTC is currently promoting. Customers can click on the banner to find out more about the newest deals on products and services.
The products and services you want more information about can be accessed by click- ing either the buttons at the top or the boxes below the banner.
The Connected Online link allows readers to browse current and past issues of Connected. Flip through recent issues of the magazine, Local programming segments The Interactive Fiber Availability Map is print or download previous issues or share from FTCtv can be viewed by color-coded to show where fiber is currently a story with friends through social media. clicking the link in the lower available, as well as where it will be installed Older issues are also accessible by clicking right corner of the home page. next. The address search bar enables users to the download issues button. type in their address to learn if fiber is available at their location.
12 | July/August 2013 Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative
Helping seniors FTC extends a special
“Thank You” to these find direction 2013 presenters: TC and NACC teamed up once their jobs and answered tough questions again to co-sponsor their annual Ca- — including some about job availability in • Gordon Gossett • Gant, Croft and Associates reer Enrichment Day. On May 8, se- the area. • Tyler Pair • Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative F • Jessica Blalock and Sherry Whitten • NACC niors from high schools across the DeKalb Students who haven’t chosen the field and Jackson county school systems and in which they want to work found the day • Sharon Totten • NACC • John T. Davis • Edward Jones Fort Payne High School were on the col- quite helpful. “I’m undecided right now,” • Ashley Stanford • Farmers Telecommunications lege campus to hear from professionals in says Taylor Pack. “I attended two sessions Cooperative a number of different vocations. about careers I’m interested in and then I • Jeff Rains • DeKalb Regional Hospital Popular speaker Sam Glenn — The went to the career planning session. It was • Kenny Brown, Steve Cowart Chalk Man — returned to provide the great because I was able to go ahead and and Jason Plunkett • Vulcraft-Nucor morning keynote address for the event. He set up an appointment with a career coun- • Tom Norquist • Gametime performed a fast-paced chalk art demon- selor at NACC. That was really helpful.” • Adam Moore • Seimens Energy stration before encouraging seniors with a Brandi Lyles, manager of marketing and • Fred Johnson • Farmers Telecommunications message about pursuing their greatness. public relations for FTC, believes Career Cooperative Students then dispersed and went to Enrichment Day has a great impact on stu- • Dr. Cindy Jones • NACC classrooms across the campus to explore dents’ lives. “This event provides valuable • Mark Webb • NACC their career options. The day was divided insight to the youth in our area,” she says. • Reggy Jones • Pharmacy Partners • Drake Ibsen • Rehab Partners into three sessions, offering seniors an “Through our partnership with the college • Ashley Vaughn and Deanna Wigley • White Realty opportunity to hear about several career and our wonderful presenters, we’re giv- • Amanda Woodall • Fyffe Special Services Center choices they found interesting. Students ing students a unique opportunity to spend • Scott Kirk • First Southern State Bank chose different sessions throughout the time hearing from professionals who • Mike Cochran • Retired Coach, DeKalb County Sports day, during which a professional explained work in these fields every day. It’s great Hall of Fame details about their career and answered guidance for students who are consider- • Thomas Whitten • DeKalb Youth Services questions from students. Presenters talked ing different career paths and are ready to • David Davis and Brent Satterfield • NACC about the challenges they face daily in solidify their decisions.” • Jim Allen • Alabama Farmers Cooperative • Ronny Neely • DeKalb Farmers Cooperative • Jason Yerby • Pilgrim’s Pride • Robert Reed • nVius Graphics • Tony Newsome • Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative • Wayne Cummins • Consultant • Scott Martin • Federal Bureau of Investigation • Dr. Anthony Sims • Henagar Family Medicine • SSG Carlos Chaparro • Alabama National Guard • Adrian Casey • DeKalb County Health Department More than 700 seniors from across Jackson Students mingled with friends during lunch, • Sam Phillips • Phillips Engineering and DeKalb counties attended Career Day. which was provided by FTC. • Ross Boydston • NACC • Sam Wilson • Sam Construction • Dr. John Anderson • Dentist • Marcie Davis • Fort Payne City Schools • Brenda Hammonds • Studio B Designs • David Clemmons • The Times-Journal • Lee Buffington • Turf Tamer, Inc. • Julie Baker-McCormick • DeKalb and Cherokee Asst. District Attorney • Joseph Bates • Sand Mountain Electric Cooperative NACC campus classrooms were packed with Ashley Stanford, FTC multimedia production • Dr. Martin Habel • Vision Plus seniors eager to learn about career options. coordinator, was among the session leaders.
Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative July/August 2013 | 13 Southern Kitchens
onda Hays of The perfect peach Cunningham, R Ky., has a pas- Every time I bite sion for peaches that into a peach, the goes all the way back memories come to her childhood. She flooding back. remembers a trip to My mother loved visit family in Arkansas peaches, but her Anne P. Braly when she was about 10 Food Editor favorite variety was years old, and on the one you don’t see very often these way back to her home days: Georgia Belle. We had a summer in Missouri the smell of home in the North Carolina moun- peaches filled the car. tains, and there was one roadside stand we passed every time we made the drive. When the sign went up saying Georgia Belles were in season, Momma would make a quick turn into the open-air market along High- A passion for peaches way 64. “After the 5-1/2-hour Momma’s gone now, Georgia Belles drive to Arkansas, we aren’t so easy to find anymore, and got back in the car and the last time I drove past, the fruit drove another 50 miles stand had closed. But farmers are now just to pick peaches from an orchard that growing other good peaches, and Ronda Hays’ recipe was well-known for they’re readily available this time of for her mom’s peach year. Here’s one of my favorite ways its beautiful and sweet pie brings back to use peaches on grilled chicken. For fruit,” she says. “There childhood memories. the best taste, make it the night be- were acres and acres of Jackson Thomas by Photo fore, put it in a sealed container and peach trees loaded with allow the flavors to marry. ripe, luscious fruit ready for picking.” After picking their fill — several bushels, Hays recalls — they got back in their car, hav- ing rearranged their luggage so that the peaches would have a protected place to travel. Fresh Peach Salsa “When the visit was over, our trip home was a constant reminder by the ever-present 3-4 peeled peaches, diced smell of fresh peaches and the thoughts of delicious treats to come,” she says. “Once 1/4 cup fresh lime juice home, Mom and Dad began the process of preserving the tasty peaches for us to enjoy dur- 2 teaspoons honey ing the cold winter months.” 2 tablespoons diced red bell Her love of peaches has never diminished, only bloomed. And though Hays prefers free- pepper stone peaches over any other — the pits are easier to remove and there’s less waste, she 1 tablespoon minced says — she really doesn’t have a preference about what specific variety she uses. jalapeno pepper “I usually just buy the freshest-smelling the grocery store offers,” she says. “The same 1 tablespoon chopped goes when I go to the local farmers’ markets in the summer.” cilantro If it looks like a peach and smells like a peach, she bags it. 1 clove garlic, minced Though she uses frozen peaches when good fresh ones are not available, Hays’ favorite 2 tablespoons chopped red peach dessert is never made until this time of year when peaches are at their best. Her onion mother’s peach pie is special to her because it brings back such good memories. Combine ingredients; refrigerate until “I remember her making it when my brother and I were children,” she says. “We could serving time. Makes 1-1/2 to 2 cups. hardly wait for a slice of it every time she made it.” So she, like you, has to wait no longer. Peaches are in their prime, right in time to please your peachy palate. Here are two of Hays’ favorite recipes. Email Anne Braly at [email protected].
14 | July/August 2013 Peaches: The fresh taste of summer
Peach-Blueberry Bread One of Ronda Hays’ favorite peach desserts 3 eggs is her mom’s peach pie. 2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 3 teaspoons cinnamon 2 cups diced peaches 1/2 cup blueberries 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Preheat oven to 350° F. Grease and flour two 8-by-4-inch loaf pans. In a large bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Blend in the sugar, oil and vanilla. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; mix just to combine, but do not overwork the batter. Stir in the Jackson Thomas by Photo peaches, blueberries, and nuts. Pour bat- Mom’s Peach Pie Slice peaches into crusts. In a small ter into prepared pans. Bake for about 1 saucepan, add water, sugar and corn- hour or until a toothpick inserted in the 3-4 peaches, peeled, pits removed starch, stirring and cooking until sugar is center comes out clean. Remove from dissolved and mixture is clear. Add peach oven and place on a wire rack to cool in 2 graham cracker crusts 1 cup water gelatin and stir to dissolve. Remove from loaf pans for 10 minutes. Turn the bread heat and cool slightly. Pour mixture over out onto the wire rack to completely 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 cup sugar peaches; place pies in refrigerator until cool. Serve with softened cream cheese they are set. Meanwhile, in a medium or your favorite flavored butter. 1 (3-ounce) package peach gelatin 1 (8-ounce) container whipped bowl, blend whipped topping, powdered topping, thawed sugar and cream cheese. Remove pies Note: Frozen blueberries may also be used. from refrigerator, spread with cream If frozen fruit is used, thaw and drain excess 1 cup powdered sugar 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese cheese mixture, slice and serve. Store any moisture prior to use. leftovers, covered, in refrigerator.
Dessert, Decor and More Ronda Hays of Cunningham, Ky., has a knack for domestic creativity. In 2011, Hays turned her passion for home arts into All Things Home Related, a blog in which she shares favorite recipes and photo updates about life on the farm, as well as arts and crafts projects around her home. The recipe index makes finding just the right dish quick and easy. Hays’ recipes have been featured in various cookbooks and publications, all of which are listed on her website. For more information or to contact Hays, visit her blog: www.allthingshomerelated.com
July/August 2013 | 15 Presort STD US Postage PAID Permit #21 Freeport OH
P.O.“W eBox Keep 217• You Connected” 144 McCurdy Ave. N. Rainsville, AL 35986
Get Host a summer and HD movie night! programming FREE for 3 months!*
H H H H H Make it a 5Hstar event! Here’s how: H H H H H 1 Call 256-638-2144 and get FTCtv! ›› Make sure you have 2 Visit farmerstel.com/FTCtvoutdoors plenty of seating. Your for how-to video instructions on setting friends will want to up FTCtv for outdoor viewing. come.
3 Create a screen for projecting your movie. ›› Citronella candles Easy instructions and lots of ideas can be provide lighting and found at backyardtheater.com. the added benefit of repelling insects.
›› Have plenty of snack food on hand.
*Current and new FTCtv customers must call to order Starz and HD programming to receive 256-638-2144 this promotion. After the 3 months promo- tional time, customers will be charged the standard rate for Starz and HD programming farmerstel.com until canceled by the subscriber. Hurry, offer ends July 31, 2013.