Author Archives: Zac Willis

Darryl Worley to make appearance at Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee Rural Tourism Conference to be held in Northwest Tennessee

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Darryl Worley to make appearance at Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee Rural Tourism Conference to be held in Northwest Tennessee

(Union City, Tenn., Oct. 1, 2024) — The Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee Rural Tourism Conference has announced the schedule and special guests for the annual conference to be held October 21-23, 2024 in Union City, Tennessee.

Making a special appearance to meet attendees to Northwest Tennessee will be country music singer songwriter Darryl Worley. Worley’s six albums have produced 18 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including three number ones: “I Miss My Friend”, “Have You Forgotten?”, and “Awful, Beautiful Life”, from 2002, 2003 and 2004–2005, respectively. “Have You Forgotten?” spent seven weeks at number one. Nine other singles have reached the top 40.

“I know how important tourism is to all of us who call Tennessee home,” said Worley. “I couldn’t have all these leaders in the rural tourism business right here in my own backyard and not stop by to say hello.”

Worley will be on site at the conference in partnership with Bluespire Kitchen to record his podcast, “Sounds like Life with Darryl Worley.” The podcast, which launched in August, features stories from the country music star and special guests about life, love, adventures, and anything in between.

The conference, hosted by Obion County Tourism, will meet primarily at Discovery Park of America, a large museum and heritage park and a major attractor for tourists to the region. The three-day event is for rural tourism and travel professionals throughout the southeast and includes programs, tours, evening events and networking opportunities. The complete schedule is available at almstnruraltourism.com.

While the optional excursions to White Squirrel Winery and nearby Reelfoot Lake have already sold out, there are still registration spots available for the conference. The opening night reception will take place at The Pavilion at Houser Creek Crossing, adjacent to some of the host hotels and next door to Discovery Park, while the second dinner reception will take place at Discovery Park and will feature flavors from throughout the Northwest Tennessee region. Union City’s Main Street Association has organized special tours and shopping opportunities in the charming downtown that has been undergoing a multi-million-dollar revitalization project.

Title sponsors for this year’s conference include B3 Creative Agency, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Visit Jackson, TN, Keep Tennessee Beautiful, Visit Memphis, TN, and Bluespire Kitchen. To register, visit almstnruraltourism.com.


Photo caption: Country music star Darryl
Worley, known for his chart-topping hits and
dedication to supporting rural communities,
will meet attendees and record his podcast at
the Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee Rural
Tourism Conference.
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Discovery Park’s Second Annual Powwow Brings Thousands Together to Celebrate Native American Culture

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Discovery Park of America hosted the 2024 Northwest Tennessee Native American Educational Powwow this past weekend. The event brought together over 4,000 guests of all ages and over 200 participants who represented Indigenous tribes from 32 different states. The event offered visitors a unique opportunity to experience Native American dancing, art and food while providing a space for tribes to share their traditions.

The weekend began with a free concert by John Lone Eagle and Friends, setting the tone for the days ahead. Friday’s programming focused on education, featuring popular demonstrations like the ‘Birds of Prey’ exhibit from Reelfoot Lake State Park, as well as dance exhibitions and other cultural presentations.

Music filled the air throughout the weekend as Arvel Bird returned with his signature blend of Celtic and Native American melodies, while drum groups Medicine Tail and South Side brought traditional rhythms that energized every competition and kept the dancers in constant motion.

Another returning sound to Discovery Park’s Great Lawn was the drum group Ottertrail, but this time their head singer, Al Santos, served as the emcee for the event. Known now for their appearance on the Disney+ TV show Echo, Ottertrail performed some of the Grammy award-winning songs that have made them famous. Al Santos went beyond his musical role, educating the audience about the significance of each competition, the meaning behind elements of the dancers’ regalia and more.

Crowd involvement was nonstop, with a special moment before each grand entry where all veterans in attendance were invited to participate. The powwow concluded on Sunday with a closing ceremony and the announcement of the dance contest winners. For those who missed out, Discovery Park’s Flickr page offers a gallery of photos capturing the essence of the event.

Winners of the competition portion of the Powwow were:

Golden Age Women:

  1. Bernice Bottchenbaugh
  2. Sharon Partin
  3. Ruth Gray Horse

Golden Age Men:

  1. Rick Bottchenbaugh
  2. Dean Swimmer
  3. Grady Jones

Women’s Cloth:

  1. Megan Zamora
  2. Angel Thompson
  3. Kirsten Solomon

Women’s Jingle:

  1. Roxanne Evans

Women’s Fancy:

  1. Brianna Printup

Men’s Straight:

  1. Oliver Plumley
  2. Nicholas Behan

Men’s Traditional:

  1. Kerry Reed
  2. Chuck Mesteth
  3. Tommy Smith

Girl’s Cloth:

  1. Adyson Jennings

Girl’s Jingle:

  1. Yannabah Poola
  2. Harmony Black Bear
  3. Tayla Smith

Girl’s Fancy:

  1. Lilymay Reed
  2. Caylin McCann

Boy’s Traditional:

  1. Kayden French

Boy’s Grass:

  1. Eli Poola
  2. Lakoa Reed

Boy’s Fancy:

  1. Chubbs Poola
  2. Ehren Bell

Men’s Grass:

  1. Stephan White Eagle

Men’s Fancy:

  1. Marcus Gardner
  2. Adam Bell

For more photos from the 2024 Northwest Tennessee Native American Powwow, check out the gallery below or visit our Flickr page.

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Thank You, Mary Nita

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Mary Nita Bondurant has been a pillar of Discovery Park of America since its earliest days, even before the park officially opened. As the current director of development, and having previously served as the director of marketing, she has devoted countless hours to helping shape the park into what it is today, ensuring it fulfills its mission of inspiring both children and adults to see beyond.

Her journey at 830 Everett Blvd. began in a trailer behind Discovery Park as she watched the construction of the museum from her window. Most recently, she embraced the challenge of starting the development department and learning to write grants.

You can hear Mary Nita get emotional when talking about retirement on one of the early episodes of Discovery Park’s Reelfoot Forward podcast in 2019. It is with great sadness that we now face the moment when she steps into this next chapter of her life.

Her leadership and vision were instrumental in raising money for programs like the Kirkland Scholarship Fund and other ways to give to Discovery Park of America. As she steps into retirement, her absence between these walls will undoubtedly be felt. Her legacy, however, will continue to thrive in the programs she helped build and in the countless lives she touched.

We wish her the best in her next adventure and express our deepest gratitude for her years of dedicated service to Discovery Park. Her passion and dedication have been truly inspiring.

Celebrate Grandparents Day at Discovery Park of America on Sunday, Sept. 8: Free Admission for Children 17 and Under

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At Discovery Park, we believe in celebrating the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren. This Grandparents Day, we are excited to offer a unique opportunity for families to create lasting memories together. On Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, all children aged 17 and under will receive free admission while visiting the park.

Grandparents Day is the perfect occasion to explore Discovery Park’s Museum and Heritage Park, where multiple generations can connect over shared experiences. Whether you’re rediscovering old favorites or exploring new exhibits, a visit to Discovery Park is a day full of excitement and inspiration.

Bring your grandparents and spend the day discovering new things, learning together and making memories that will last a lifetime. From the youngest grandchildren to the wisest grandparents, everyone will find something to discover. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the special role grandparents play in our lives.

Discovery Park is open from 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8.

Discovery Park of America Unveils Historical Homra Family Gun Collection

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Discovery Park unveiled a historical collection of hunting guns from the late William A. (Bill) Homra, now on display in The William A. (Bill) Homra and Allen Homra Lodge, a cabin donated by the Critchlow family.

Spanning three generations, the collection traces its origins to William A. (Bill) Homra of Fulton, Kentucky, and was later passed down to his son, Allen Homra, of Stuttgart, Arkansas. The legacy continues with Allen’s daughter, Madison Homra, also of Stuttgart, Arkansas, who now owns the collection.

This significant collection enhances the “Duck, Duck, Goose: Waterfowl of the Mississippi Flyway” exhibit, which focuses on waterfowl hunting and conservation. The exhibit honors the memory of Allen Homra and his father, both of whom were devoted businessmen with a deep passion for waterfowl hunting.

A standout piece in the collection is a Ducks Unlimited “dinner gun,” part of a unique tradition that began in 1973. Each year, Ducks Unlimited selects a gun manufacturer to produce a special edition shotgun, auctioned at dinners nationwide to support wetlands and wildlife conservation.

The collection includes:

  • L. C. Smith Field Grade Double-barrel Shotgun, circa 1913-1917, by Hunter Arms Company
  • Model 1912 Pump-action Shotgun, 1954, by Winchester Repeating Arms Company
  • Springfield Model 67 Series E Pump-action Shotgun, circa 1972-1989, by Savage Arms
  • B-2000 Automatic Gas-operated Shotgun, 1974, by Browning Arms Company
  • Patrician II Pump-action Shotgun, Ducks Unlimited Commemorative Edition, 1979, by Weatherby, Inc.

Bill Homra’s wife Joan Homra, along with their daughter Lisa Homra, presented the collection to Discovery Park during the annual David Crockett Birthday Celebration.


Photo Caption: (L to R) Joan Homra and Lisa
Homra alongside the historical gun collection now
on display in The William A. (Bill) Homra and Allen
Homra Lodge at Discovery Park of America.

Download High-Resolution Photo

Homeschool Days at Discovery Park of America: A Learning Adventure Awaits

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Homeschooling provides families with the unique opportunity to tailor their educational experiences, and there’s no better place to enhance this journey than at Discovery Park’s Homeschool Days. This year’s program is designed to inspire, educate and entertain homeschool students of all ages with a diverse array of hands-on activities, engaging exhibits and immersive experiences.

Homeschool Days at Discovery Park are carefully crafted to cater to various age groups, ensuring that every student finds something exciting and educational. The activities are designed to complement homeschool curricula, offering practical applications of scientific principles, historical events and artistic creativity. Whether your child is a budding scientist, a young historian or an aspiring artist, there’s something for everyone.

Register your student for one of the following groups: Grades 1-4 (Elementary), Grades 5-8 (Middle School), or Grades 9-12 (High School). Members enjoy discounted rates, with an early bird fee of $5 per student and a regular fee of $15. Non-members pay $15 for the early bird fee and $25 for the regular fee. The early bird fee ends at noon on the day of Homeschool Day. Parent/Guardian admission is $12. Not a member? Become one today to receive these discounts and more.

Fall Semester Homeschool Days 2024

Homestead Day

Tuesday, August 13

1-4 p.m.

Environmental Day

Tuesday, September 10

1-4 p.m.

International Culture Day 

Tuesday, October 8

1-4 p.m.

American History Day 

Tuesday, November 12

1-4 p.m.

Engineering Day 

Tuesday, December 10

1-4 p.m.

For questions, email education@discoveryparkofamerica.com.

Preserving History: The Legacy of South Fulton Rosenwald High School

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Preserving History: The Legacy of South Fulton Rosenwald High School

The South Fulton Rosenwald High School closed its doors in 1963 following the integration of Obion County Schools. Today, only the gymnasium remains standing, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Ken-Tenn Homecoming Committee, which worked tirelessly to prevent its demolition.

In recent years, the building has deteriorated to the point where it can no longer serve as a meeting place. Until repairs can be made, Discovery Park is assisting in the preservation of the school’s artifacts, which have been safely stored in our artifact storage.

Built in 1926, the school was part of the Rosenwald Program, an initiative by Julius Rosenwald (then president of Sears, Roebuck and Company) at the request of Booker T. Washington. This program provided funding to build schools for black children across the American South. The Julius Rosenwald Fund was instrumental in constructing 4,997 schools, with an estimated 354 built in Tennessee alone.

To view more photos from the Ken-Tenn Homecoming Committee gathering at Discovery Park, visit our Flickr Gallery.

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Daughters of the American Revolution Promotes the Patriots and Pioneers of America and Tennessee

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As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the birth of America, the Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution are encouraging celebrations in towns, cities and counties throughout the state. A notable effort undertaken by the ninety-four Tennessee DAR chapters is their recently published book, “Patriots to Pioneers, the First Tennessee Volunteers.” This is a collection of stories of Patriots who served in the Revolutionary War to gain American Independence and then became the founders and settlers of Tennessee.

Tracey Batey of the Reelfoot Chapter, NSDAR, of Union City presented a copy of this book to Discovery Park of America on Monday, July 15, 2024. The National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution helped to fund this gift through America 250! Celebration Grants. The 600-page volume features 372 documented and sourced Tennessee Patriot stories, 300 additional proven Tennessee Patriot names, beautiful full-color illustrations by renowned historical artist, David Wright and others, as well as an introduction and overview of the history of Tennessee’s role in the American Revolution and its founding. The Tennessee Society is excited to make these stories of the Patriots and Pioneers of Tennessee available to teachers, librarians, and American history students in locations throughout Tennessee.

One of the world’s largest patriotic women’s organizations, DAR has 190,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the country and several foreign countries. DAR members promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, service to veterans, meaningful community service and more. For additional information about DAR and its relevant mission, visit www.dar.org.

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Pictured left to right: Zach Rea, Scott Williams, Tracey Batey, Jennifer Wildes and Clare Saum.

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Halliburton Books Widened Teacher’s Mind and Spirit

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Jean Jones of Bernice, Louisiana, has donated five books written by West Tennessee author Richard Halliburton for the bookshelf that leads into Discovery Park’s Enlightenment Gallery. Fittingly, above the shelf can be found the quote “Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit” by Jawaharlal Nehru.

“As a youngster, my mother, Jerry Jo Johnson, was enchanted with Richard Halliburton and envied his world travels and adventures,” said Jones. “She grew up in the small town of Hubbard, Texas, and loved reading about Richard Halliburton and his exotic adventures, imagining herself in his shoes.”

Halliburton was born in Brownsville, Tennessee, and grew up in Memphis. He lived his life following a philosophy he expressed in his first book, “The Royal Road to Romance,” published in 1925. “Let those who wish have their respectability,” he wrote. “I wanted freedom, freedom to indulge in whatever caprice struck my fancy, freedom to search in the farthest corners of the earth for the beautiful, the joyous, and the romantic.”

Against the backdrop of the Golden Age, the Roaring Twenties, and the Great Depression, Halliburton’s exploits around the globe made him an internationally known celebrity and the most famous travel writer of his time. From climbing Mount Olympus in Greece to swimming the Panama Canal and literally flying all the way to Timbuktu, Halliburton experienced and wrote about adventures that others never even believed possible. His youthful spirit and bohemian lifestyle won the hearts of millions.

Inspired by Halliburton, Johnson toured Europe with her aunt as a young woman, then settled into a lifetime career of teaching and raising a family. Upon her retirement, she took off on several adventures—two lengthy trips to the Soviet Union, several trips to European countries and a cruise through the Panama Canal.

“Richard would have approved!” noted her daughter, Jean.

Jerry Jo Johnson died in August, 2005 in a hospital in New Orleans, as Hurricane Katrina howled outside.

The Halliburton books that inspired Johnson that you can now find on the bookshelf are:

  • New Worlds to Conquer, 1929, Garden City Pub.
  • The Royal Road to Romance, 1925, Garden City Pub.
  • Flying Carpet, 1932, Garden City
  • Richard Halliburton’s Book of Marvels—The Occident (school edition), 1937, Bobbs Merrill
  • Richard Halliburton, His Story of His Life’s Adventures, 1940, Bobbs Merrill

Roots of Rhythm

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Join us for a special showcase of world music on April 19th, 2024 as Discovery Park of America hosts Roots of Rhythm. This show is an exciting blend of musical performances and educational lessons on music from the African diaspora.

“Roots of Rhythm” is a one-of-a-kind experience that elevates cultural awareness about music from around the globe through energetic performances and engaging audience participation activities. It is an interdisciplinary voyage that encompasses world history and geography through the lens of music, coinciding with the National Standards for Arts Education.

You can learn more about “Roots of Rhythm” on the UT-Martin Percussion website.

Presentations are free with your membership or park admission. Not a member? Join today.

Tickets for 2024 Singer-Songwriter Night Featuring Phillip Coleman and Friends Now on Sale

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Local favorite, Phillip Coleman, is returning to the stage for Singer-Songwriter night on Thursday, May 16. As always, he’s bringing along some incredible friends. This year, Leslie Satcher and Carolyn Dawn Johnson will join in on the fun.

Leslie Satcher’s career began with Sony Music Publishing and Warner Bros. Satcher has written or co-written with many artists including Willie Nelson, Ariana Grande, Vince Gill, Sheila E., George Strait, Sheryl Crow, Martina McBride, Blake Shelton and others.

Carolyn Dawn Johnson is a Canadian country music singer-songwriter. Johnson co-wrote Chely Wright’s number one hit, “Single White Female” in 1999 and signed with record label Arista Nashville in 2000. She then released her debut album, “Room with a View,” with several top ten hits.

Sponsor Tables are $1,500 and can be purchased now at discoveryparkofamerica.com/singer24 or by contacting Mary Nita Bondurant at mbondurant@discoveryparkofamerica.com.

Individual tickets are now on sale for $50. Individual tickets will enjoy theater-style seating behind sponsor tables and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The doors open at 6:00 p.m. with a cash bar and complimentary heavy hors d’oeuvres outside of the ATA Traveling Exhibit Hall. The show begins at 7 p.m.

Individual Tickets
Sponsor Table

UPDATE: Obion County Celebrates Another Step Closer to I-69

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Route 690, part of the future Interstate 69, is officially open in Obion County. A group of local business leaders gathered in Discovery Park of America’s Cooper Tower on Wednesday to celebrate the first cars and trucks utilizing the new route. After the work had been halted because of a lack of federal funding, the Tennessee Department of Transportation later decided to complete an approximately 45-mile portion of I-69 running from the Kentucky line to Dyersburg using state dollars. Eventually, it will connect with I-155, a spur that crosses the Mississippi River and extends to I-55 near Hayti, Missouri. The remaining portions of the planned I-69 route through West Tennessee, including parts in Lauderdale, Tipton and Shelby counties, are currently on hold pending funding.

Coverage of Wednesday’s Opening Celebration:

WPSD Local 6, Businesses excited for influx of traffic as State Route 690 officially opens

WBBJ, 7 Eyewitness News, State Route 690 opens for travelers in Obion County

Thunderbolt Radio, Much Anticipated State Route 690 Four Lane Open in Obion County

Paducah Sun, Businesses excited for influx of traffic as State Route 690 officially opens