Arnold Engineering Development Complex is celebrating a major milestone, and the community is invited to join in the festivities.

A 75th anniversary open house will be at Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn., headquarters of AEDC, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 27. The event is free and open to the public.

“The men and women who currently work at, or have ever been part of the AEDC team, are excited to exhibit this nation’s premier scientific infrastructure to our supportive community partners,” said AEDC Commander Col. Grant Mizell.

AEDC Test Support Division Deputy Director Chad Morris added the open house is a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity for members of the public to get a look behind the gates of Arnold AFB and see where history is made.

“Bring your family, your friends and your curiosity,” he said. “This free open house is our way of saying a massive ‘thank you’ for 75 years of unwavering community support.”

On June 25, 1951, then-President Harry S. Truman dedicated AEDC in honor of the late Gen. Henry “Hap” Arnold, often credited as the “father of the Air Force” and whose vision helped bring AEDC to fruition. That dedication in 1951 occurred on what would have been Gen. Arnold’s 65th birthday.

“This celebration marks 75 years of pushing the boundaries of aerospace,” Morris said. “Our theme is ‘The Future is Faster Than You Think: 75 Years of Innovation.’ From the early days of the Space Race to testing the advanced systems of today, this celebration honors our incredible legacy of aerospace innovation and the foundational role AEDC has played in national security for three quarters of a century.”

Members of the public will be able to access Arnold AFB via the Main Gate along Wattendorf Memorial Highway beginning at 8 a.m. The open house event will commence at 9 a.m., and attendees can begin taking part in activities that will take place throughout the day. These include guided bus tours of the AEDC mission facilities, hands-on STEM activities, the “Walk through AEDC History” tents, unit and mission displays, food trucks, and live music featuring Darin Jones & The Last Man Standing and Sara Jones & The Hightones.

The official open house kickoff will occur at 10 a.m. with a welcome from the AEDC commander.

“Arnold Air Force Base has been the cornerstone of testing every major air and space advancement since 1951,” Mizell said. “This base is not only a critical part of aviation history but will continue to drive America’s aerospace dominance for the next 75 years.”

A 75th Anniversary Rededication Ceremony and the sealing of a time capsule honoring former AEDC commanders will take place at noon. This time capsule will not be opened until AEDC’s 100th anniversary in 2051.

“During this event, we will follow in President Truman’s footsteps, where he stood in 1951 to dedicate this base the first time, and we will rededicate this amazing wonder of the world to continue leading America’s national defense for another 75 years,” Mizell said.

Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to observe AEDC history in the making, as a Change of Command ceremony will take place at 3 p.m.

“This is a unique opportunity for our community to witness a cornerstone of military tradition,” Morris said. “Seeing a Change of Command allows the public to share in a deeply historic moment as a new commander takes the helm of this vital complex, a transition that usually happens behind closed gates.”

During this ceremony, the outgoing AEDC commander will transfer leadership of the Complex to a new commander.

“Here is an opportunity for the public to see what happens behind the gates of America’s most high-tech development site and witness the military tradition of AEDC’s Change of Command ceremony, where I will hand off command of this Complex to our incoming teammate, Col. Wayne Dirkes,” Mizell said.

Open house events will take place in front of and near the Arnold AFB Administration & Engineering Building, where attendees will be directed after entering the Main Gate. Guests are asked to adhere to all base security protocols and instructions from security personnel upon entry.

Attendees are also asked to follow the directions of the parking attendees who will guide traffic to the designated parking areas. Guests must remain in the designated event and tour areas and follow the directions of AEDC personnel and law enforcement.

For the safety of all guests, items such as firearms, ammunition, knives/bladed tools, mace/pepper spray, tasers, coolers, glass containers, large bags/backpacks, illegal drugs, alcohol, fireworks, laser pointers, spray paint, wheeled recreational devices, drones, pets excluding service animals are prohibited. This list is not all-inclusive, and additional items may be prohibited at the discretion of AEDC Security during the vent.

All guests and vehicles are subject to search upon entry.

“We hope the public walks away with a deep sense of pride in what happens right here in their own backyard,” Morris said. “Whether it’s seeing the massive facilities on our bus tours or watching kids get inspired by an amazing array of STEM activities in our STEM Zone, we want everyone to feel connected to our mission and excited about the future.”

There is still time for local businesses to get involved in the open house, as organizers are actively accepting event sponsors and vendors. To sponsor, contact (931) 454-3128. Those interested in becoming a vendor may contact (931) 454-7425.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the June 16 meeting, the Sewanee Utility District Board of Commissioners approved service requests for two residential projects, one for water and sewer service to homes the University proposes to build and the other from Sewanee Mountain Partners for water service for a residential development across from St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School. The Sewanee Mountain Partners project calls for an onsite sewage disposal facility. In keeping with government regulations, SUD would need to approve another sewage facility operating in its district. The board did not issue a decision on the sewage dispersal question.

The University applied for water and sewer service for 20 residences, 15 on Lake O’Donnell Road and five on Hat Rock Road. The two-inch sewer force main line on Lake O’Donnell Road was at capacity, SUD manager Ben Beavers said. “I told them they will need to upgrade to a four-inch line.” Beavers suggested to the University one grinder pump could serve two homes, instead of just one. “We have plenty of water,” Beavers observed when recommending approval of the project.

The Sewanee Mountain Partners project calls for 36 single family residences and 10 townhomes, two groups of five each. The developers will increase the water service line to the property from two-inches to six-inches. For sewage disposal, each home and each group of townhouses will have a septic tank with the effluent pumped to an onsite drip field for dispersal.

“Water is not an issue. Forty units is not a huge impact, and we get a water line,” Beavers said. “The issue is the sewer.” Tennessee Association of Utility District attorney Don Scholes advised Beavers on the legal ramifications of the proposed onsite sewage disposal facility. Because SUD has a USDA loan for sewer rehabilitation, SUD has the sole right to provide water and sewer service within the boundaries of the district. SUD is also protected by a private act designating the utility as the water and sewer service provider within the district boundaries. In addition to SUD’s approval, the project would also need to be approved by the county mayor, the Tennessee Public Utility Commission, and the USDA Rural Development loan providers.

“I don’t think it’s totally a bad idea not to do the sewer for this.” Beavers said. He cited two options if SUD were to do sewer treatment for the development: the developers could pay for infrastructure upgrades to pump the sewage to SUD or the developers could construct the onsite facility and turn ownership and operation over to SUD. “The problem,” Beavers said, “is it won’t cost us anything up front, but it will cost us $40,000 a year to fund the depreciation.” To offset the additional $40,000 expense per year, the cost divided among 40 residences would mean charging each residence $1,000 per year for 30-50 years. Beavers noted another plus to not owning the on-site sewage dispersal facility was that SUD would not be liable for any Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation violations. Commissioner Donnie McBee pointed out the proposed drip field location was on high ground with the possibility of downhill leaching of dispersed effluent.

Beavers said he would advise the Sewanee Mountain Partners developers granting approval for water service “did not convey approval” of the proposed onsite sewage dispersal facility. “It’s a separate issue that will need to be taken up at a different time,” he stressed. He recommended a meeting with the project engineer before reaching a decision on the sewage dispersal proposal.

In other business, the board also approved increasing the number of paid holidays per year from 10 to 12. Suggesting the increase, Beavers said the average number of holidays was 12 for utility district and municipal government employees in the area. The additional holidays will be designated as “floating holidays” assigned annually. “Every year is different so there are days that might work better than others,” said SUD Board President Charlie Smith, citing the example of holidays falling on a Saturday. Beavers thanked the board for increasing the number of holidays. “The employees will appreciate it, and I do as well.”

Morton Memorial United Methodist Church is announcing plans to create a dedicated home for its long-standing food mission through a new space known as The Well.

Located on church-owned property immediately behind the church campus on Main Street in Monteagle, The Well will provide a permanent space designed specifically to support and expand the mission’s work of serving neighbors facing food insecurity. The project represents an important investment in a mission that has become one of Morton Memorial’s most visible and impactful community outreach efforts.

For years, the church’s food ministry has faithfully operated from the Fellowship Hall, providing food and support to hundreds of individuals and families. While that arrangement has served the ministry well, church leaders recognized an opportunity to make better use of existing church property while creating a space specifically designed for food ministry operations.

To make this vision a reality, Morton Memorial has launched the Filling the Well Campaign, a $1 million effort to fund the renovation and preparation of the property as the new home for The Well while also establishing an endowment to help sustain the mission’s operations well into the future. The campaign will ensure that both the facility and the mission it houses remain strong and vibrant for generations to come.

The new facility will allow the mission to operate more efficiently, provide additional storage, improve traffic flow and safety, and create a more welcoming environment for guests. It will also free the Fellowship Hall for church and community gatherings, allowing both ministries to flourish without competing for space.

“One of the exciting things about this project is that we already have the property,” said Melisa Derseweh, pastor at Morton. “The land is there. The mission is thriving. This project simply brings the two together in a way that allows us to serve our community more effectively while preparing for future growth.”

In addition to providing a dedicated facility, The Well will allow the mission to continue evolving toward a more personalized shopping experience that gives guests greater choice and dignity while fostering relationships between volunteers and those they serve.

The name The Well carries both historical and spiritual significance. The property that will become the mission’s new home once contained wells that provided water and sustenance for the surrounding community. Just as those wells served as a source of life and provision in an earlier time, Morton Memorial envisions The Well as a place that will continue that legacy of caring for neighbors and meeting essential needs.

“Long before this project was imagined, this property has a history of serving the community through the wells located there,” said Mike Keen, Chair, Church Leadership Board. “We love the idea that it will once again become a source of provision and care for our neighbors. The mission is different, but the purpose remains remarkably similar.”

The response from the congregation and community has been encouraging. To date, 46 percent of the campaign’s goal has already been committed through gifts and pledges, reflecting broad support for the project and confidence in its mission.

“Morton Memorial invites individuals, families, businesses, and community partners who share this vision to consider joining the effort. Every gift, regardless of size, helps create a place where neighbors can find nourishment, dignity, connection, and hope,” said Alyse Getty, Food Mission director.

For more information about The Well, the Filling the Well Campaign, or opportunities to support the project, contact Susan Askew, campaign chair at <saskew@sewanee.edu> or visit <www.mortonmemorialumc.org/thewell>.

The Appalachian Conservation Institute (ACI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit protecting nearly 11,000 acres in Tennessee’s Little Sequatchie Cove, today announced the opening of the Mountain Laurel Trail, a brand new hiking trail that runs through one of the region’s most biodiverse landscapes and features waterfall views. Access to the Mountain Laurel Trail as well as the rest of ACI’s nearly 11,000 acres is free through their online permitting system at <aci.recaccess.com>.

“With the Mountain Laurel Trail, we want to give people a chance to get out on the land and walk it, feel it, experience it,” said Rick Huffines, Executive Director of the Appalachian Conservation Institute. “The 11,000 acres we protect belong to the whole community, not just a few.”

Founded in 2023 by Michael and Karmin Pace, ACI was started with the mission of providing a new model for conservation philanthropy. The Paces privately acquired most of the land that ACI now protects, and they have been donating it to ACI over time to protect it into perpetuity. From day one, free community access has been central to ACI’s conservation efforts.

“Land protection, conservation, and research has always been a mission we support, and one that we were able to help actualize through the establishment of ACI,” said Michael Pace, ACI founder and Board member. “We bought this land to protect it from development and ultimately, to give it back to the community. We envision this to be a place of discovery and learning, and an important part of that is making sure it’s accessible to the public.”

The Mountain Laurel Trail is ACI’s first-ever dedicated hiking trail, an approximately 3-mile moderate loop through the South Cumberland Mountains in Marion County, Tennessee. The loop runs between Avary Point and a nearly 60-ft waterfall that swells to a roar after big rains. A picnic shelter situated at the top of the waterfall gives hikers a scenic place to eat lunch while enjoying the views. Mountain laurel blooms in the late spring along the path, giving the trail its name.

The trail was entirely community-funded. A grassroots giving campaign in December 2025 raised $7,730 from 68 individual donors, reaching 154 percent of its original $5,000 goal. That funding paid for the trail, the picnic shelter, and the waterfall overlook platform. The entire build was completed in just three weeks by ACI’s facilities crew. The trail opened to the public in late May 2026, following a private ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by more than 40 of the donors who made it possible.

“Sixty-eight people funded this trail because they wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves,” said Huffines. “At ACI, we are companions to this land, and we invite the community to join us in our efforts. It takes all of us.”

The Mountain Laurel Trail is the first in the planned build-out of ACI’s public trail network. To find the trail, navigate to 1900 Pryor Ridge Road, Tracy City, and follow the signs to the trailhead.

Alongside its public access mission, ACI conducts scientific research across its property, as well as large-scale land restoration projects. Little Sequatchie Cove has rare cave systems, unique geological formations, and ecologically significant habitat that several threatened and endangered species depend on. The land ACI protects is some of the most scientifically and ecologically significant in the southeastern United States.

Visitors can access the Mountain Laurel Trail and all of ACI’s property by obtaining a free permit at <aci.recaccess.com>. Permits are available online, free of charge, and are required for all visitors. ACI property is open for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hunting, and climbing.

Founded in 2023 by Michael and Karmin Pace, the Appalachian Conservation Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization protecting nearly 11,000 acres in Tennessee’s Little Sequatchie Cove, just outside Tracy City. ACI’s mission is to serve as a leading example of conservation philanthropy through proactive land protection, restoration, and scientific education. For more information, visit <appalachianconservation.org> or follow @appalachianconservationinst on Instagram and Facebook.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the June 8 Franklin County School Board meeting, board member Sarah Marhevsky asked the board to revisit the policy governing enrollment in high school advanced placement and honors courses. A policy change last year resulted in what Marhevsky called “a shift in how students could get in.” Previously teacher recommendation weighed in the decision. At present, to qualify for an honors course a student must have received a grade of B or higher in the non-honors section of the course and must also meet or exceed the grade level standards on the TCAP or OEC assessment. “We all know students who aren’t great testers,” Marhevsky said. “My goal is to find different ways to approach this.”

Marhevsky argued being denied enrollment in an honors or AP class could hurt a student’s college admission prospects. “Colleges look at the kind of courses a student is taking based on what their school offers,” she explained. The college the student hoped to attend would give less weight to the significance of receiving “all A’s” if the student did not take honors courses when they were available.

Marhevsky pointed to other school districts which used criteria in addition to the TCAP benchmark in weighing a student’s qualification for honors course enrollment: a grade of 80 percent or higher; a grade of C or higher and teacher or parent recommendation; a point system where a student was scored on a combination of grades, TCAP assessment, and recommendation. She cautioned against giving too much weight to middle-school TCAP scores when determining eligibility for a high school honors course, arguing middle-school scores “don’t accurately reflect a students’ ability.” She cited statistics showing district-wide middle school TCAP scores were significantly lower than elementary school and high school TCAP scores.

“We can give this to our committee, to reassess, and then get back to us,” said Board Chair CleiJo Walker. “It needs to go before the ones who deal with these programs in the schools, because they’re the ones who came up with the rubrics for this policy.”

In other business, the board approved the Fees List for Franklin County and Huntland high schools for the 2026-2027 school year.

Board member Sara Leichty questioned the $750 fee for cheerleading. “That’s a lot of money,” Marhevsky said. “I don’t want any child to feel they can’t participate.” “I don’t believe that’s happening,” replied FCHS Principal Britney Butner. Butner said parents of former cheerleaders often stepped up to help with costs. “They do a lot of fundraising,” Walker said. The fee includes $650 for cheerleading camp.

Asked about the $100 Marching Band fee at Huntland High School, Principal Lisa Crabtree said, “Our fee in the past had been $60.” She attributed the fee increase to the increase in the cost of repairing instruments and purchasing music.

The Legislative Update included information on several bills recently passed by the legislature which had received little attention. One new bill allows school boards to interview candidates for the position of Director of Schools in a closed executive session. Another new bill provides for a board of nine teachers who will be allowed to review the TCAP test questions. Vice Chair Lance Williams questioned the value of the practice, since no information was given on the reviewer teachers selection process and how the reviewers would share information.

A bill which did not pass would allow students to attend any public school of their family’s choice. Marhevsky said she anticipates the legislature will revisit the bill. She questioned whether the state funding would follow the child or stay with the district of residence.

The Monteagle Sunday School Assembly in Monteagle continues its 144th consecutive summer season of enrichment through Sunday, Aug. 2, featuring numerous visiting lecturers who will present morning and evening programs that are open free of charge to the public; unless otherwise noted, morning lectures begin at 10:45 a.m. (Warren Chapel) and evening lectures at 7:45 p.m. (Auditorium). Anyone interested in a full schedule of the Monteagle Assembly’s 2026 program is welcome to pick one up at the Assembly Office (tel. 931-924-2286), or to peruse the schedule on the Assembly’s website at <MonteagleSundaySchoolAssembly.org>.

Mount Vernon is best known as George Washington’s home on the Potomac River, a historic monument to our country’s first president. But Mount Vernon is also an active research site and archaeological treasure. On Thursday evening, the Assembly welcomes Adam Erby, who serves as executive director for historic preservation and collections and the Martha Washington chief curator at Mount Vernon. His lecture, “Object Lessons: Recent Discoveries from George Washington’s Mount Vernon,” will share some of his work in preserving and researching the history of this legendary figure of American history.

Two well-known figures to the Assembly host a workshop and performance on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream this week. Each afternoon (Monday-Friday, 2:30-4:30 p.m.) in the Auditorium, Colby Henderson-Black and Lina Wellborn will rehearse, costume, set design, and prepare a performance of this whimsical play. No prior experience is required for this fun theatrical adventure! The performance will take place Friday evening at 6:45 p.m., on the Mall. Bring a blanket or camp chair to enjoy Shakespeare outdoors!

The Wayne & Virginia Jervis Bible week features four lectures Tuesday-Friday with Tom McCullough, a retired professor of religion and history at Centre College. His lecture series includes the following topics, all at 10:45 a.m. in Warren Chapel:

Tuesday: The Dead Sea Scrolls: Their Discovery, Translation, and Interpretation

Wednesday: Qumran: An Outpost of Essenes?

Thursday: Jesus, the Essenes, and the Dead Sea Scrolls

Friday: Jesus, the Essenes, and the Dead Sea Scrolls

Additional events in the week ahead include the following:

Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-10:30 a.m., Meet at Warren Chapel—Richard Candler leads a bird walk and talk. Please bring binoculars. Advance registration required at MSSA office.

Tuesday, June 16, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Shady Dell—Virginia Curry leads a make-and-take workshop: fabric garland for any season. Advance registration required as space is limited; gate ticket required; $10 workshop fee.

Wednesday, June 17, 3 p.m., Harton Hall—Harriet Plyler shares a cooking demonstration: Emergency Party Planning.

Thursday, June 18, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Pulliam Center—Brendie Mitchell and Shari Knight lead a workshop: Brain Health for Aging Well. Advance registration required as space is limited; gate ticket required; no fee.

Saturday, June 20, 7:45 p.m., Mall Gazebo—Bradley Cole Smith and Nelson Nolan share music, A Night Under the Stars.

The Mission of the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly is to be a welcoming community of Christian faith where people gather to engage in spiritual growth and renewal, lifelong inquiry and learning, recreational, and cultural enrichment, while being good stewards of our natural resources and our Assembly heritage.

by Blythe Ford, Messenger Staff Writer

The 69th season of the Sewanee Summer Music Festival opens this Sunday, June 14, with a few exciting changes to the program. This season will focus on community engagement, and with the help of grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission and the South Cumberland Community Fund, the festival is now more open and accessible than ever, thanks to free tickets, a no-cost shuttle service running all over the plateau, and a finale that will include free classes and rehearsals for community members wishing to participate in the volunteer-focused Beethoven Choir.

In past seasons, the Sewanee Summer Music Festival (SSMF) has offered educational opportunities to young classical musicians and granted the community access to their artistic talents — community involvement has always been part of their mission, but this year takes it to a new level. In the words of SSMF director Hillary Herndon, “The Sewanee Summer Music Festival serves as a premier training ground for emerging professional musicians while also creating opportunities for people across the Plateau to experience and participate in exceptional musical performances.” She added, “We believe music should be accessible to everyone.” This commitment is reflected in an expansion of the free-of-cost events and the new Bass Line shuttle service which will ferry people from all across the Plateau; not even gas money will be an obstacle for anyone wanting to experience the joy of music.

The season opens with the first of the Faculty Artist Series on June 14 at 7:30 p.m., in Guerry Auditorium, and continues through other performances by faculty and students until closing with the Beethoven Choir on July 12. For anyone new to the festival, the Faculty Series offers a look at the talents of the program’s instructors, and according to Herndon, “set[s] the artistic standard that inspires our students through the summer.” Past crowd favorites have included the OperaFest series, where opera students just beginning their careers perform excerpts from well-known works. For an experience of the best student talent, a spectator can seek out the Chamber Music Intensive or the Jacqueline Avent Concerto Showcase, in which instrumental students compete to perform. However, it is the Beethoven Choir that should draw the most community interest this year.

The Beethoven Choir that ends the season is an event that relies on volunteers to lend their voices to the performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, also known as the “Ode to Joy.” Community members are invited to learn, rehearse, and perform under the guidance of the program’s faculty and in collaboration with students to create an event that truly showcases the importance of the plateau and its people to the SSMF. In Herndon’s words: “The season finale of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony will be especially powerful this summer. Bringing together Festival musicians and community singers, it embodies the spirit of collaboration, shared purpose, and celebration that has made the Sewanee Summer Music Festival an important part of life on the Plateau for nearly seven decades.”

The 69th SSMF season has a lot to offer both program participants and lucky spectators; for more information about the SSMF, a full calendar of events, the Bass Line shuttle schedule, and participation forms for the Beethoven Choir, visit the SSMF website at <ssmf.sewanee.edu>. Let’s all enjoy, in Herndon’s words, “a true Summer For All — one that welcomes longtime patrons, first-time concert goers, families, students, and visitors alike.”

The University of the South is participating in the Summer Food Service Program through July 31. Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service (not all prohibited bases apply to all programs). There will be no service on July 4 or July 5. Meals will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis at the sites and times as follows:

Palmer Library, 2115 Main St., Palmer. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Grundy Safe Communities Coalition, 14399 US-41, Tracy City. Mondays, 3–6 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church, 213 1st Ave., NW, Winchester. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pelham United Methodist Church, 2440 SR 50, Pelham. Wednesdays, 3– 6 p.m.

Coalmont Elementary (UT Extension), 7862 TN-56, Coalmont. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Beersheba Springs Medical Clinic, 19592 TN-56, Beersheba Springs. Thursdays, 3–6 p.m.

Sherwood/Crow Creek Community Center, 10225 Sherwood Rd., Sherwood. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Altamont Public Library, 1433 Main St., Altamont. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Morton Memorial UMC Food Distribution, 322 W. Main St., Monteagle. Saturday June 13 and Saturday, July 11, 8–10 a.m.

To file a program complaint alleging discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (AD-3027), found online at http://www.ascr.usda/gov/compl... and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410

Fax:(202) 690-7442; or Email: Program.intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

The Monteagle Planning Commission tackled a long agenda at a two-and-a-half hour meeting on June 2. The commission approved the site plan for Morton Memorial United Methodist’s food pantry. Parking, group living quarters, and fencing topped the discussion list for the new rules for C-1 commercial and adjacent residential property. To deter data centers from locating in Monteagle, the commission charged town planner Jonathan Rush with drafting an amendment to Industrial Zoning ordinance.

Located across the street from the church on a lot bordered by Church Street, Catherine Avenue, Winston Avenue, half of the 5,000 square foot food pantry will be a warehouse, and half will be for food distribution. The food ministry currently operates one Saturday a month and serves 300 clients. “It’s a mad house,” said church spokesperson Rich Wyckoff. When the new facility is complete, the ministry will host two food distributions per week, eight per month. Clients will come in and shop rather than staying in their cars, observed church spokesperson David Pilcher. Plans call for 25 parking spaces.

Following up on discussion at the May meeting, the amended Downtown Zoning code drafted by Rush defined the boundaries of Primary C-1 commercial by streets, with all C-1 commercial property not within the Primary district boundary designated as Secondary, and all residential property touching the C-1 commercial corridor falling under the rules for the Residential Overlay.

Commissioner Katie Trahan took issue with no minimum parking space requirements, aside from the requirement of a minimum of one parking space for residences in the Residential Overlay district. “If parking is a problem in the future, it would be a good problem to have,” said Commissioner Nate Wilson. The rationale of no minimum parking requirement in C-I commercial was to encourage development rather than “to fill downtown with parking,” Wilson stressed. “We’re trying to lower the barriers for commercial development.” When parking is offered, the new rules call for parking at the side or in the rear. Trahan argued, “tourists need parking” and “employees need to park.” Wilson suggested private parking could be supplemented with public parking and noted the new rules encouraged shared parking. He pointed to an opportunity for public parking by narrowing College Street. “Narrow lanes would slow traffic,” commented Commissioner Dan Sargent, citing an additional advantage.

By the new rules, if a business chooses to have parking, there is no required minimum number of spaces. Currently, building size, use, and other criteria determine the number of parking spaces required, with the number of handicapped parking spaces required based on the total number of spaces. If there is no parking, a business was not required to provide handicapped parking, Wilson said.

Trahan challenged the rule calling for landscaping adjacent to all parking. “That’s a lot,” she insisted. Wilson agreed 70 percent landscaping would be more reasonable.

Trahan also questioned there being no minimum building footprint size in C-1 commercial. “What would that save us from?” Wilson asked. “To encourage small businesses, we need to lower the entry points.” On the subject of fencing, Trahan spoke for forbidding chain-link fences in front, rather than just discouraging them. By the new rules, the maximum height for fences is 48 inches and requires 50 percent transparency. Wilson commented there were no rules on materials used for building construction. “That gets into design standards we’re trying to avoid,” he said.

The rules for Residential Overly property call for a 2,500 square foot minimum lot size; 40 feet maximum width and 70 feet maximum depth residence size (allowing for a shot-gun style house); and a 9 foot minimum ceiling height. Trahan asked about the provision allowing for “group quarters and dormitories.” Wilson said the intention was to allow for “hostels,” group living with individual quarters and a shared kitchen. “It’s just so broad,” Trahan countered. “Sometimes there are things [consequences] you don’t think of.” She approved of Wilson’s suggestion to add “short-term” shared quarters. Rush proposed the rule stipulate “hostels” which had a “very specific” definition.

The commission tabled approving the new C-1 rules and Residential Overlay proposal to allow for final proofreading and incorporating the suggested changes.

Wilson introduced the discussion on data centers locating in Monteagle. “The county is wrestling with it [allowing data centers to locate in Grundy County], because they don’t have zoning. We’re silent on it. [Data Centers] are not in our zoning ordinance.” Wilson proposed including data centers under “industrial uses.”

“We can’t ban them,” Wilson acknowledged, “but we could make it use upon review.” This would enable Monteagle to refuse to allow a data center to locate there due to having insufficient water for the facility’s cooling needs. Rush will draft a zoning ordinance amendment defining data centers as an industrial use only allowed upon review.

Revisiting the May discussion about the site-plan submittal process, the commission voted to adopt a timeline delineating the steps: the developer must submit an electronic copy of the proposed site plan to the town staff and the required engineering fee must be paid no later than 30 days before the next planning commission meeting; the staff will distribute the electronic copy for review to the enforcement officer, town planner, town engineer, and other reviewing officials; once all reviewing parties have made their comments, the site plan will go back to the developer for revisions. The developer will provide reviewers with a paper copy upon request. The developer must supply a paper copy for final site plan review by the planning commission.

The Monteagle Sunday School Assembly in Monteagle announces its 144th consecutive summer season of enrichment beginning Sunday, June 7 and continuing through Sunday, Aug. 2, featuring numerous visiting lecturers who will present morning and evening programs that are open free of charge to the public; unless otherwise noted, morning lectures begin at 10:45 a.m. (Warren Chapel) and evening lectures at 7:45 p.m. (Auditorium). Anyone interested in a full schedule of the Monteagle Assembly’s 2026 program is welcome to pick one up at the Assembly Office (tel. (931) 924-2286), or to peruse the schedule on the Assembly’s website at <MonteagleSundaySchoolAssembly.org>.

Journalist and historian Marc Leepson will present two lectures on Thursday grounded in history. In the morning, join Leepson as he shares The Unlikely War Hero, about Doug Hegdahl’s Vietnam War POW story. Hegdahl fell off his U.S. Navy cruiser in the Gulf of Tonkin on April 6, 1967. At just 20 years old, he spent nearly four hours in the water before being picked up by a small fishing boat and taken to a Vietnamese prison called the “Hanoi Hilton” by its prisoners. He fooled his captors by playing dumb, leading them to call him “The Incredibly Stupid One.” As the youngest and lowest-ranking American POW captured in Vietnam, his story is a fascinating tale of resilience and patriotic service. A book sale and signing will follow the lecture.

Thursday evening, Leepson will lecture about The Marquis de Lafayette: The Hero of Two Worlds, based on Leepson’s book, “Lafayette: Lessons in Leadership from the Idealist General,” which is part of the World Generals Series. Lafayette is seen as an icon of both American and French history. He traveled to the U.S. colonies to fight in the Revolutionary War at the age of 19. Lafayette was critical in convincing the French government to provide financial and military support to the Americans. He also served as commander of the National Guard during the French Revolution. A book sale and signing will also follow the evening lecture.

Friday morning’s lecture will continue the theme of history but closer to our home with a lecture from Emily Senefeld on “We Shall Not Be Moved: The Highlander Folk School, 1932-1961.” Senefeld is a Sewanee alumna (C’05) and a native of Columbia, Tenn., where she teaches history at Columbia State Community College. She earned a master’s degree in history from the University of Virginia in 2010, where she focused her studies on the civil rights movement, labor history, and modern U.S. history.

Saturday evening, we welcome the community to enjoy a Jazz Picnic with Art Four Sale Band on the MSSA Mall. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy music from 5:30-8:15 p.m.

Additional events in the week ahead include the following:

Monday, June 8, 6 p.m., Mall Gazebo — The Final Crossings Gospel Band performs spiritual music. Bring a camp chair or picnic blanket.

Tuesday, June 9, 10:45 a.m., Warren Chapel — Marcus Murphy lectures on the Soong Sisters and Their Summer at the Assembly.

Tuesday, June 9, 2:30-4 p.m., Pulliam Center — Mei-Yin Hung and Bill Coryer lead a workshop: Support Your Health and Well-Being Through Energy Healing with Reiki. Advance registration required as space is limited; gate ticket required; $20 workshop fee.

Wednesday, June 10, 10:45 am, Warren Chapel — Eric Ross lectures on Living with Antiques in a Modern World. Note schedule change from printed program. Stephanie Sabbe will lecture on July 22.

Wednesday, June 10, 3 p.m., Harton Hall — Chloe Fort shares a talk/cooking demonstration on porch parties.

Thursday, June 11, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Shady Dell — Colby Henderson-Black leads a workshop: Decoupage Chicken. Advance registration required as space is limited; gate ticket required each day; no fee.

Friday, June 12, 2:30 p.m., Warren Chapel — Walter R. Green, Jr., reads from his book, “My Enemy, a book about Civil War life in occupied Franklin, Tennessee.” Book sale and signing to follow.

The Mission of the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly is to be a welcoming community of Christian faith where people gather to engage in spiritual growth and renewal, lifelong inquiry and learning, recreational, and cultural enrichment, while being good stewards of our natural resources and our Assembly heritage.

Students of Sewanee Elementary School will serve as the Grand Marshals of the 2026 Sewanee Fourth of July Parade in honor of the school’s 100th anniversary.

The announcement was made by Dylan McClure, chair of the Sewanee Fourth of July Committee, during the school’s centennial celebration on May 8. The honor recognizes a century of service to the community and the generations of students who have passed through the school’s doors since it opened in 1926.

As Grand Marshals, Sewanee Elementary students will take a leading role in this year’s parade. Students are currently designing and creating a float to commemorate the school’s centennial and will participate by riding on the float and walking in the parade.

The selection is especially meaningful in a community where many Fourth of July parade attendees are Sewanee Elementary alumni or family members of former students. For 100 years, the school has been an important part of life on the Mountain, helping shape generations of children and fostering connections that span decades.

By naming the students as Grand Marshals, the Fourth of July Committee is recognizing both the school’s rich history and the young people who will carry its legacy into the future.

Come join us on July 4 to celebrate Sewanee’s finest! Go to <http://www.sewanee4thofjuly.org; for the latest information.

Every summer the School of Letters invites our acclaimed faculty and other prominent, nationally recognized writers and scholars to read their work and speak about the writing life. The 2026 session will be through July 17.

Readings are in Naylor Auditorium at 4:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted, with a reception following in Gailor Atrium.

Join the School of Letters on June 10 at 4:30 p.m. in Naylor Auditorium for a Faculty Reading with Nickole Brown and Alice Bolin.

Nickole Brown has authored four books of poetry, including “Sister,” which was reissued eleven years after its debut in 2018 and “The Donkey Elegies,” published in 2020. She is the director and president of the Hellbender Gathering of Poets. Alice Bolin is the author of the essay collections “Dead Girls: Essays on Surviving an American Obsession,” a New York Times Notable Book of 2018, and 2025’s “Culture Creep: Notes on the Pop Apocalypse.” Her nonfiction appears in The New York Times Book Review, New York Magazine, the LA Review of Books, and The Cut.

Additional events include:

June 17, 11 a.m. to noon. Please join School of Letters faculty member Rebecca Gayle Howell for a book signing of her newly released and highly anticipated book of poetry, “Erase, Genesis,” at the University Bookstore in downtown Sewanee.

June 17, 2–3 p.m. Please join School of Letters alumna Donna Mintz, L’17, for a book signing of her literary debut, “Stars at Noon,” at the University Bookstore in downtown Sewanee

Wednesday, June 17, 4:30 p.m. Guest Reading with Eliana Ramage in Convocation Hall – Co-sponsored with the Friends of the Library.

Thursday, June 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 20th Anniversary Seminars with Adam O’Fallon Price, Dr. Pamela Royston Macfie, and Jamie Quatro - Quatro’s event will be at noon in Stirling’s. Adam O’Fallon Price’s talk is “In the Beginning: Writing a Good Story Introduction,” and the title of Dr. Pamela Royston Macfie’s talk is “A Life in Letters.”

Wednesday, June 24, 4:30 p.m. Faculty & Friends Reading with Meera Subramanian, Travis Eisenbise, & Eric Smith.

Wednesday, July 1, 4:30 p.m. Faculty Reading with Justin Taylor & Emily Adrian.

Wednesday, July 8, 4:30 p.m. John Grammer Fellow Reading with poet Joy Priest.

Wednesday, July 15, 4:30 p.m. Faculty Reading with Daniel Hornsby & Tiana Clark.

Friday, July 17, 5:30 p.m. MFA Candidate Reading in Biehl Commons. Go to <https://letters.sewanee.edu/; for more information.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“You’re probably going to be looking at another mandated rate increase to satisfy the state law,” Alderman Dean Lay warned residents at the May 26 Monteagle Council meeting commenting on the harsh reality of the town’s water-sewer budget for 2026-2027. “You can’t have two consecutive years of a loss without a mandated rate adjustment.” The Enterprise Fund budget for water and sewer showed a $40,000-$50,000 loss in 2025-2026. The town’s accountant initially projected a $600,000 deficit for 2026-2027. By law, the Enterprise Fund and General Fund must maintain separate accounts. After lengthy discussion, the council approved both budgets for the fiscal year beginning July 1.

“The two biggest [expense] items in the Enterprise Fund are depreciation and interest,” explained Mayor Greg Maloof.

Interest expense results from borrowing money to repair or replace infrastructure or to fund projects required by the Tennessee Department of Environment of Conservation, Maloof said. Monteagle’s water plant is 50 years old. The sewer plant is 15 years old.

Depreciation refers to an asset’s decrease in value overtime. To provide for replacing assets, the state has begun strictly enforcing a rule requiring water-sewer utilities to fund depreciation, meaning the utility must set aside money to replace an asset based on its current depreciated value.

The 2026-2027 Enterprise Fund budget calls for setting aside $125,000 for replacing water plant assets and $375,000 for replacing sewer plant assets. An outside consultant recommended a 32 percent rate increase to balance the budget.

“We’re not suggesting a 30 percent rate increase,” stressed Alderman Grant Fletcher. “We’re working other ways to reduce capitalized projects to avoid that kind of increase and also to avoid having the state come in and dictate rates.” As proposed at the April meeting, deferring water-sewer related projects can help avoid a loss, albeit perhaps temporarily, by deferring capital expense and deferring the related capital depreciation. There will be a small rate increase July 1 (3-5 percent) in keeping with recommendations from a rate study conducted in 2023.

Lay argued for finding a way to help people on a limited income deal with rate increases. He proposed offering customers a water-audit to educate them about how to reduce water use. The council will look at options during a workshop.

Lay also pointed to $60,00-$65,000 loss in revenue resulting from the rest area on 1-24 being closed for over a year due to a water leak. “That’s 10 percent of the [projected] loss,” Lay observed. Maloof spoke with a state official about the delay in addressing the rest area problem and learned a statewide study of all interstate rest areas was underway. The police department confirmed the interstate accident rate had increased since the rest area was closed. Fletcher suggested advising state officials of safety concerns might speed up the repair process.

General Fund budget revenue comes primarily from sales tax, as well as hotel-motel tax and building permits. The General Fund budget calls for 5 percent wage increase for hourly employees and a 3.5 percent wage increase for salaried employees.

In other business, the council approved an ordinance enabling Codes Enforcement officer Travis Lawyer to serve as a special police officer. Lawyer requested the designation explaining, “It allows me as a building inspector to be able to serve municipal papers, put them in court, and offer testimony.”

The council also approved the revised concept design for an Imagine Monteagle project which combined a proposed information kiosk and a proposed sculpture, with the sculpture as the center focal point of the kiosk patio in the combined design. Fletcher, who heads up the Imagine Monteagle initiative, anticipates grant funding for both the kiosk and sculpture. For the project to move forward, the town’s engineer must approve the sculpture location. The council approved $1,500 for engineering costs.

Reporting on Fire Department operations, Lawyer, who also serves as Fire Chief, said the first-responder EMS program initiated by the Fire Department made 20 calls last month, with a response time of 30 minutes. The program costs an average of $12.80 per call.

Updating the council on the Fire Recovery program adopted in 2024, Lawyer said the town has realized $26,269 from insurance claims. A third-party organization makes insurance claims on the department’s behalf. The department averages 20 interstate calls per month dealing with big trucks. Lawyer only turns in monetary recovery claims for commercial vehicle accidents, not for accidents involving private individuals.

During the Mayor’s Comments portion of the meeting, Maloof designated Alderman Nate Wilson to serve on the Planning Commission in his stead. He also urged residents to stop putting plastic bags in the plastic recycling bin at the Convenience Center. The bin is only for plastic containers with recycling codes one or two. Franklin County which provides the service may remove the bin if the practice continues.

The Beautification and Tree Board anticipates the Fire Hall mural will be completed by the end of summer, said committee chair Martha Ann Pilcher. Pilcher urged organizations and groups to have a float in the July 4 parade celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.

In response to a request from Linda Brookhart, the town’s representative on the Chamber of Commerce, the council approved $1,455 for the purchase of three banners advertising the Monteagle Mountain Market, with the cost charged against the Imagine Monteagle fund. Addressing an earlier controversy, Brookhart said the event will continue to be called the Monteagle Mountain Market, not the Mountain Market as was proposed.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the May 18 meeting, the Sewanee Community Council revisited two issues raised in March and made plans to take action on both fronts: traffic calming measures to curtail excessive speeding and upgrades to the dog park to address muddy areas and the need for more shade. The council also appointed a representative to serve on the Lease Committee and an election officer to help coordinate the November council member election.

Provost Scott Wilson cited a long list of areas with chronic excessive speeding identified by the Traffic Committee: Willie Six Road, the Fowler Center crossing area, Florida Avenue, Lost Cove Road, Breakfield Road, Bob Stewman Road, and University Avenue, especially at the main entrance to campus. Wilson cautioned regulations related to topography such as elevation changes and curves could prevent installing speed humps on some streets. He proposed purchasing two additional sets of speed humps, six speed limit signs, and a flashing sign alerting motorists of their speed, cost $9,000. Wilson said if the council Project Funding program contributed $4,500, the University would match the amount. Council member Michael Payne suggested lowering the speed limit to 15 mph in some places. “That would need to be negotiated with the police,” Wilson said. “There are a lot of places where people don’t even know what the speed limit is.” The council approved the $4,500 allocation for the measures Wilson recommended.

Raising a related concern, council member Katie Gohn called attention to the speed limit on Highway 41A increasing to 55 mph at St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School. In addition to the school entrance, Gohn cited residential roads entering the highway and excessive truck traffic posing safety risks. Council member Phil White observed the speed limit was 45 mph from Cowan to Winchester, but the Tennessee Department of Transportation rejected a previous effort to lower the speed limit to 45 mph between Sewanee and Monteagle. Superintendent of Leases Sallie Green will research the procedure for changing the speed limit on a state highway.

Resident Andrew Cowan who in March argued for upgrades at the Phil White Dog Park, presented a list of specifics: pavement in a heavily trafficked area prone to getting muddy, benches, and a few shade trees. Currently there was only one tree, a persimmon, Cowan said. A climbing vine overtaking the fence also needed addressed. Cowan referred to the Dog Park as a “beloved amenity. It’s wonderful already.” Cowan has received verbal commitments to help with the cost of the proposed upgrades, estimate $18,000.

Green said the $11,000 in the Park’s Budget was likely an inadequate source of funding, since the allocation was for all the Sewanee parks and other parks had maintenance needs, as well. Green suggested the Project Funding program as a possible funding mechanism, with up to $10,000 available annually. “Based on conversations with people around the Domain, I don’t anticipate needing that,” Cowan said.

Wilson said University Farm Manager Carolyn Hoagland reported good results with goats eating the vines on University Farm pasture fences. Hoagland said the goats could be brought to the dog park at specific times set aside for that purpose.

Council member Kevin Cummings volunteered to serve as the council representative on the Lease Committee. Katie Gohn will serve as the election officer for November 2026 council member election.

Council representative Ed Hawkins brought up the need for a ramp to make the Community Center accessible to people in wheelchairs, since council meetings take place there. Wilson said the council was considering meeting at St. Mark’s Community Center next year and that building had a ramp.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“A deal is a deal,” Sewanee Utility District customer Marvin Pate insisted at the May 19 SUD Board of Commissioners meeting. Pate objected to the $8 monthly grinder pump fee SUD began levying on grinder pump customers in January of 2025 to offset the high cost of maintaining and replacing the pumps. SUD manager Ben Beavers said the cost of the pumps had doubled. SUD spent $35,000 on grinder pumps in 2024 when the utility initiated the fee, and Beavers anticipates the cost this year to be $60,000-$100,000. Since the fee was imposed, SUD customer Ron Summers appeared twice before the board objecting. As did Summers, Pate maintained in 2000 when he paid to have the pump installed, he was told by then SUD manager Kevin Gilliam SUD would assume ownership of the pump, as well as all related expenses going forward.

“I don’t doubt either one of you,” said SUD Board President Charlie Smith. Beavers concurred, “I don’t doubt you were told that.”

Pate offered additional historical context to the discussion. In 2000, when Pate built a home on Hat Rock Road, University rules required he connect to public sewer, a policy implemented by Tom Kepple, former Vice President for Business and Community Relations. I.e., no more septic tank sewage treatment systems on the Domain. Connecting to public sewer was mandatory for all new construction, and for existing homes, connecting to public sewer was mandatory if the property changed hands. When gravity flow was insufficient to move sewage through the lines, customers were required to pay for the purchase and installation of a grinder pump to facilitate the flow.

In response to questions by the Messenger, Beavers offered further insight on background. According to Beavers, even before the University required all Domain residents to connect to public sewer, sewer customers had to purchase and pay for installation of a pump when a pump was needed. Cost for maintenance fell to the customer, but local contractors were reluctant to service the pumps. When the pumps failed and sewage spills occurred, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation stepped in and held SUD accountable as the local water-sewer authority. SUD began servicing the pumps even before the requirement to connect to public sewer came into play.

Neither Pate or Summers have anything in writing to support their claim. Likewise, there is no documentation in SUD records.

“If the board agreed, there would have been evidence,” said Commissioner Donnie McBee.

“Just because it’s not in writing, that doesn’t make it not a deal in Sewanee,” Pate said. “It’s the small-town Southern way of doing things.” Pate pointed out when he assumed the role Director of Physical Plant Services at the University in the 1990s, there was no purchase order system.

Summers said three or four years ago his pump failed and SUD replaced it. “I never got a bill. Why did I get a pump at no cost if that wasn’t the policy?” Summers asked.

Pate argued since SUD assumed ownership of the pumps, the pumps were part of overall SUD infrastructure and all costs related to them should be spread among all customers, as was the case with other infrastructure costs.

Smith noted SUD was currently conducting a rate study. “The rate study may change the way we approach charges for services.”

SUD has 700 sewer customers, 200 with grinder pumps. Spreading the cost among all SUD sewer customers would result in each having a $3 monthly fee. No one on the SUD board has a sewer connection requiring a grinder pump.

“I’m torn,” conceded SUD Commissioner Amanda Bailey. “A deal is a deal. But I don’t want to pay.”

In other business the board approved water service to the 14-lot Oaks residential development in Deep Woods. The developer will pay for all costs related to the line extension, and after one year, SUD will assume ownership. All lots will be charged a $5 monthly dry tap fee until water service and regular billing begins.

Smith observed potential customers further down Deep Woods Road might want to pay for extending the service line further. McBee said 14 people wanted taps. “The line is about 40 percent of the way there,” Beavers said.

The board also approved extending the contract with LTS Construction from May 1 to Aug. 7 to allow LTS to continue sewer rehabilitation work. Beavers applied for and received permission to redirect unused American Rescue Plan Act funds from the Lead and Copper Survey to the Sewer Rehabilitation project.

Accountant Buddy Petty, principal for the firm RateStudies, has resumed work on the SUD rate study. Petty paused working on the study to allow the auditor to determine if figures logged in the wrong categories by the software required a correction to the audit. All totals were accurate. The auditor said updating the audit was not necessary. Beavers will supply Petty with data showing corrected category entries.

Updating the board on drought concerns, Beavers said March rainfall was 3.36 inches, 1.5-2 inches below normal. “We usually get a good 5 inches. Ten inches for the year is also low. It’s been dry,” Beavers acknowledged. “We’re rated abnormally dry, and we’re surrounded by exceptionally dry, verging on official drought. Unfortunately, I expect it’s not going to get a whole lot better. We’re preparing for that, making sure all meters are working. We only have two small leaks we know of.” Regional water utility managers will begin meeting weekly to assess conditions.