Community

By DJ Humphreys What started as a routine drive through Athens turned into something harder to ignore. Murals. At first, it was just one. Then another. Then a pattern. Across Athens and into nearby towns, walls are filled with color, history and identity, often in places people pass every day without noticing. From downtown Athens to Sweetwater and Madisonville, these murals tell stories that go beyond decoration. They reflect the communities they are part of, capturing both history and personality in ways that are easy to overlook. Athens murals highlight history and identity In Athens, Tenn several murals focus on moments and symbols tied directly to the city’s past. One of the most striking is “Great America XIV: The Battle of Athens” by artist Sam Welty, located on North Jackson Street. The mural references the 1946 Battle of Athens, a defining moment in local history when veterans challenged election corruption. Nearby, Welty’s “Great America XX” continues that theme, while another piece, “Ronald Reagan’s Visit to McMinn County,” located on East Washington Avenue, captures a different moment in the area’s political history, reflecting the county’s connection to national figures. Other murals shift toward broader identity. The Tri Star mural, created by Megan Lingerfelt at the corner of South White Street and East Bank Street, brings in Tennessee symbolism with bright colors and natural imagery. The piece stands in contrast to the more historical murals, offering a different perspective on what defines the area. Additional works, including “Gathering Release” by Johnathan Bidwell and “Main Street Athens” by Jessica and Kevin Lane, both murals contribute to a growing collection that blends history with modern artistic expression. Murals extend beyond Athens into surrounding communities The presence of murals is not limited to Athens. In Sweetwater, murals take on a more community focused and vibrant tone. Pieces such as “This Girl Can (Sweetwater)” by Kim Radford and “The Sweetwater Mural” by Cymone Wilder highlight themes of empowerment and local pride. Other works, including “Quack Walk” at Duck Park and “Everbloom” by Tiffany Hargis, bring movement and color into public spaces, making art part of everyday life for residents and visitors. In Madisonville, murals continue to reflect a mix of identity and creativity. The “Wings Mural” by Talitha Shell offers an interactive element, encouraging people to step into the artwork, while pieces like “Dream Cloud” by Nathan Brown and the “Brown Trout” mural by Sarah Painter and Cosby Hayes draw inspiration from nature and the surrounding region. Additional murals, including “Visit Monroe County” and “Everywhere you look, UT.” by Curtis Glover, reinforce local identity and pride. Even smaller towns such as Etowah and Englewood feature murals, though on a more limited scale, showing that public art has spread throughout the region in different forms. Public art offers a different way to see small towns Murals across the communities of Monroe and McMinn counties serve as more than visual additions. They offer insight into what each town values, remembers and wants to share. While larger cities often draw attention for public art, these smaller towns present a quieter version of the same idea, one that requires a closer look. What may seem like ordinary streets at first glance can reveal something more with time and attention. In places like Athens and the surrounding communities, those stories are not always in museums or on signs. Sometimes, they are painted directly onto the walls. Explore the murals yourself!

Story by Ash Johnson and Bri Johnson From Friday March 27 to Sunday March 29, Tennessee Wesleyan put on the musical Fiddler on the Roof. Jamey Owen, the director of the musical, gave a speech before the performance began. Owen gave a shout-out to all the students, faculty, and community members who helped make the musical possible and mentioned the divisiveness in the country. Fiddler on the Roof is a historical play based on the experiences of the Jewish community, including their joys and their struggles. One prominent theme is tradition, which is especially important for Orthodox Jews (Brittney Bowman). Although the musicial portrays the daily lives of ordinary Jewish people in a way that is relatable to the audience, there are aspects of the story that require prior knowledge of Orthodox branch of Judaism to understand better. The cast members gained that insight from Sam Jaffee to better understand Jewish culture. In Judaism, the Bible is vital to not only the people’s faith, but also helps them navigate daily life. (Riley’s character) main catchphrase is “As the Good Book says”. Throughout the play, characters either cite the Bible directly or make allusions to its passages, often in comedic ways. The play incorporates comedy while keeping reverence to Judaism, making the story educational while being hilariously relatable. Warning: Spoilers for Fiddler on the Roof Although the characters in the beginning emphasize the importance of tradition, Tevye’s notions of tradition are challenged when three of his five daughters, Tzeitel, Hodel, and Chava, seek to marry. Tzeitel is initially arranged to marry Lazar, a wealthy butcher, but wishes to marry Motel, the tailor, instead. Even though Motel is poor, Tzeitel loves him because he is her childhood friend. This presents the first challenge: Wealth vs Love. While Tzeitel and Motel are getting married, Hodel and Perchik’s relationship quickly blossoms. At first, Hodel was skeptical of Perchik, as was the rest of the village, because Perchik challenges tradition directly. However, it is when Perchik challenges Hodel by offering to dance with her that she falls in love. When Hodel and Perchik tell Tevye that they are getting married, Tevye initially does not approve, but is not offended until the couple says they are not asking for permission. This marriage presents two challenges: old traditions vs new ideas and parental authority vs children’s autonomy. Just when Tevye thinks his challenges are over, Chava wants to marry Fyedka, a Russian Christian. Now, Tevye must decide if faith is more important than love. The irony of Tevye deciding between tradition and the new ideas is that he and Golde defy tradition. Tevye may be the husband, but Golde is the one that Tevye reveres. After the performance ended, Riley Hammel, the star of the show, was asked his thoughts of the show. Hammel mentioned that his favorite part of rehearsals was “Just everybody coming together. We had a great crew”. TWU professors also contributed to the performance, with John Ferguson building the set and Dr. Sam Jaffee teaching the crew about the Jewish heritage in the play. But performances also have their challenges. Hammel claimed that it took “An hour and a half coming in working on stuff [for three months]” and “trying to balance schoolwork” Despite these challenges, Hammel expressed his wishes to perform again. “Oh absolutely, this is just my third [play]” Just as the cast and audience has learned about the traditions and challenges of Jewish history, they also were left with this question: What traditions should be held on to, and what should be challenged? Photos by Ash Johnson and Bri Johnson

Written by Emarie Bailey, Edited by Hunter Cookston, Photos by DJ Humphreys, and Interview by Dakota Caldwell On Thursday, April 16, 2026, Tennessee Wesleyan University (TWU) is partnering with Cleveland State Community College and Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology in hosting the Tri-College Job Fair and Career Expo at the McMinn Higher Education Center in Athens, Tennessee from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event is an opportunity for students to connect with employers, explore possible job listings, and offer your resume to different businesses that interest you! “The reason behind setting up this job fair was to expand our reach for our employers that are local,” says Kim Ealy, Director of Career and Leadership Development, “so that they have the opportunity to meet with talent and diverse skill sets.” There will be around 30 companies attending the career fair, including: To prepare accordingly, “First, [you should] look at the list of companies that are coming and learn a little about the ones that are of interest to [you],” says Ealy, “Depends on how much time you have as well. Find five companies that really are your top priority.” If there is not a business that interests you, the career fair will provide a learning experience through on-site interviews, resume review, and the opportunity to speak with a wide variety of employees about their processes. “Bring current copies of your resume, whether they take it or [not],” said Ealy for preparation. “That way you have [visual] talking points with [you] to answer questions.” For further information, contact Kim Ealy, Tennessee Wesleyan’s Director of Career and Leadership Development. Ealy is over the event and will offer more information pertaining to it. kealy@tnwesleyan.edu

By DJ Humphreys Located inside the Food Hub in downtown Athens, Tenn. Biscuit Envy, also branded as “Biskit NV” at its downtown location, is more than just a place to grab breakfast. It is a family-driven restaurant built on tradition, community and a simple mission: bring people together. Biscuit Envy is located inside the Food Hub in downtown Athens, a shared space that can be easy to miss without knowing where to look. The Food Hub is a shared space in downtown Athens designed to support local businesses by providing kitchen and storefront access in one location. Owner Natasha Burson said the idea behind Biscuit Envy started long before the doors opened. “We are a family-operated business,” Burson said. “My inspiration is my family — my mom, my aunts and my grandma. Everyone was always cooking and showing hospitality.” As a second-generation restaurant, Biscuit Envy carries those traditions forward while creating a space where customers feel at home. “Our mission is to serve good food, but also to be a place where the community can come, gather around the table, talk and fellowship,” Burson said. Located inside the Food Hub near campus, the restaurant benefits from a shared kitchen space that helps keep costs manageable. However, Burson said the location also presents challenges. “Most of the action takes place on the other side of town,” she said. “We have to advertise and get the word out, so people know to come downtown.” Despite those challenges, the business continues to grow while staying rooted in family. Staffing has largely relied on relatives, especially during the transition from their previous Cleveland location. Burson said she hopes to eventually hire more college students but encourages young people to stay patient in their career paths. “Don’t get discouraged if you don’t start where your dream is,” she said. “I worked in corporate America for almost 20 years before I was able to do this.” That message is already shaping the next generation within the business. Jay Welcome, 14, has been working with his family since 2021 and said the experience has helped him grow both personally and professionally. “Probably getting to enjoy my family and learning recipes,” Welcome said. “It’s also helped me be more social and have a kind face to people.” Looking ahead, Welcome said he is interested in the business side of food, including bringing family recipes to a larger market. “Maybe not my own kitchen, but making it more commercialized, like putting recipes in grocery stores,” he said. He also shared ideas for growing the business’ reach, especially among younger audiences. “Maybe creating a food hub for younger generations,” Welcome said. “There should be more outlets for kids to express themselves.” As for the food itself, Welcome didn’t hesitate when asked about his favorite. “Everything’s pretty good,” he said. “But my favorite is probably the Mr. V’s.” The menu reflects those family traditions, with hearty biscuit sandwiches and comfort-style meals drawing in customers. Biscuit Envy is typically open on Saturdays, though hours and availability may vary. Customers can check the restaurant’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date information on offerings and hours. From family recipes to future ambitions, Biscuit Envy continues to build more than a menu. Located inside the Food Hub, the restaurant continues to grow its presence in downtown Athens while staying rooted in family and community. Photos by Roni Bailey

By: Emarie Bailey Tennessee Wesleyan University will be presenting the musical Fiddler on the Roof in Townsend Auditorium on:  This free production is directed by Jamey Owen, Assistant Professor of Music, and it is choreographed by Ashley Copeland, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies.   While this musical is free to watch, any donations will go towards supporting the Tennessee Wesleyan University Theatre department.   Anticipation for opening night has been rising for the students, faculty and community members participating in the musical.   “What I’m looking forward to about the show is that musical theatre brings such a synergy between people, and the energy when people are on stage together is so electric,” Director Jamey Owen expressed her excitement for bringing this show to the community. “I’m looking forward to sharing that feeling with the audience and sharing all the friendships that have been made here – the palpable feeling of those friendships, sharing that with the community, and inspiring people with this beautiful story.” The actors have been hard at work in order to make this production the best it can be. With extensive rehearsals and attention to detail, this production is on its way to bringing the same excitement to the audience.   “Seeing it come to life has been an amazing experience,” said Sadie Goodin, starring as Golde. “And not only that, doing this alongside my best friends has been the honor of a lifetime.”   Come see Fiddler on the Roof from Friday to Sunday this week at the Townsend Auditorium on Tennessee Wesleyan University’s Athens campus. 

By Dakota Caldwell Your free sandwich deal from McAlister’s Deli is right in front of you. Except, you have to be one of the first 100 people in line for the grand opening in Athens, Tennessee. We’re here to give you three tips on how to be one of these lucky individuals who will win free club sandwiches for a year. The event takes place on March 30 at 10:30 AM, which means there’s no time to waste! Tip #1: Bring a group – No one wants to go into war alone. This is exactly why you need a couple of friends to go with you in this endeavor. Everyone knows bathroom breaks are inevitable, but if you’ve got a friend to hold your place in line, all is well. This opens the door for a friend to be able to walk to McDonald’s to get the whole group fresh McGriddles for breakfast. This could possibly be a long night of waiting; therefore, having friends with you to keep the vibes up is mandatory. Tip #2: Come supplied – This could be the worst night of your life if you don’t come prepared. A Walmart trip is a necessity to stay comfortable. Valuable materials such as a folding chair, sleeping bag, and heated blankets will come in handy. The current forecast is calling for temperatures as low as 44 degrees Fahrenheit. The more layers, the better for those looking to survive. Tip #3: Remember what’s at stake – College students are balling on a budget. We can’t afford to miss free food for a year. Cafeteria fatigue is inevitable, and outside food is what we need. Remember how enjoyable a free sandwich for a year will taste while you’re waiting in line. We all know free food tastes better, especially from a new restaurant. Not to mention, the epic story this will give you for the rest of your life. Your grandchildren will love the nighttime fairytale of winning a free club sandwich at McAlister’s in the future. Do it for the glory. The community is very excited for this opportunity. We had the honor of interviewing one customer on the matter. “I’m excited about it [McAllister’s opening]. It’s a new place to eat in Athens, and the sandwiches are delicious, and it’s just something different,” said McAlister’s patron Jerry A. “The [Drip Kitchen and Coffee] kind of reminds me of McAllister’s, and I can’t wait till this [location] opens up. It’s a great location with the shopping center and all.”   Make sure to stay tuned for the grand opening of McAllister’s on March 30 at 10:30 AM. Start preparing now for the greatest opportunity of your life!  Edited by Hunter Cookston

By Emarie Bailey The Athens Chamber of Commerce welcomed Pie Hound to downtown with an official ribbon cutting on November 13, 2025. “Our owner, Kit Housley, this is his first restaurant that he’s ever owned… He wanted his own restaurant in his hometown,” says Ansley Travis, the general manager of Pie Hound. Pie Hound, a new pizza restaurant, is located at 13 East Madison Avenue, Athens, Tennessee. It is in the heart of downtown, and very close to Tennessee Wesleyan University’s campus, making it a spot to hang out or get some food for college students. The exterior of Pie Hound seems unassuming; however, the interior is filled with life. The entrance doors are large, wooden and glass double doors that lead into the open concept restaurant. The brick interior gives a rustic look that is coupled with the industrial framework, creating an interesting aesthetic, especially for the small town of Athens, Tennessee. You might be wondering: “Why is this restaurant named Pie Hound?” The reason for that is due to the owner’s two Basset hounds, called Button and Rosie, whose names are honored on the menu. Button is also seen as the mascot for the restaurant. With a flavorful menu, Pie Hound offers a variety of appetizers, pizzas (including build your own pizzas), sandwiches, wings, salads, desserts, and drinks. The food options pair nicely with the aesthetic and vibe of the restaurant’s architecture. Pie Hound is dedicated to the Athens community, as portrayed on their website, and there is a possibility of offering Tennessee Wesleyan University students a place to come more often. “I think probably when it gets closer to finals, we might do some kind of student discount… I hope that more students start to come eat here,” Ansley Travis describes her wishes for the future of Pie Hound in our community. Photos by Ash Johnson and DJ HumphreysEdited by Ash JohnsonInterview by DJ Humphreys, Ash Johnson, and Bri Johnson