This week, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park celebrated a touching 50-year tradition. Eric Johnson delivered a red poinsettia to park headquarters, honoring rangers who rescued him and a friend from a life-threatening blizzard while hiking the Appalachian Trail in 1974.

The tradition began with Eric’s late mother, Wanneta Johnson, who started the annual gesture of thanks the year after the rescue. Today, Eric continues both the tradition and his passion for hiking.

The Poinsettia: A Holiday Icon with Deep Roots

The poinsettia, a vibrant red-and-green plant synonymous with Christmas, has a rich history that bridges cultures and traditions. Known in its native Mexico as cuetlaxochitl (kwet-la-SHO-she) in Nahuatl or noche buena (Christmas Eve) in Spanish, the plant was historically linked to winter festivals and Catholic traditions. Its connection to Christmas began in the 16th century, with legends of its red leaves symbolizing … Read More »

Pecan vs Pecan vs Pecan.

When it comes to pecans, the debate over pronunciation is as rich as the pie itself. Is it puh-CAHN or PEE-can? Linguists, historians, and pie lovers alike have opinions—but the true story of this word goes much deeper, tracing back to Indigenous languages and cultures.

Dr. Michael Migizi Sullivan, an Ojibwe linguist from the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe Reservation in northern Wisconsin, sheds light on the origins of this fascinating word.

The word “pecan” comes from the Algonquian language family, spoken by diverse Indigenous groups across North America. But even among these groups, there wasn’t one single way to say it:

The Abenaki pronounced it PAGAN, like Virginia’s Pagan River.

The Ojibwe called it BAGAAN.

The Miami-Illinois near the Midwest said PAKAANI.

As French and Spanish settlers encountered these communities along the Mississippi River in the 1700s, they adopted the word and … Read More »

8 Creative Party Ideas for Hosting Friends and Family

Planning a party? Make your gathering unforgettable with these eight fun and unique ideas! Whether you’re hosting for the holidays, celebrating a special occasion, or just gathering for some quality time, these creative setups will leave your guests raving.

1. Coffee Bar

Kick things off with a cozy coffee bar. Offer a selection of brewed coffee from our friends at Golden Roast , espresso, and cold brew. Include syrups, whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and chocolate shavings for personalized creations. Throw a Cider from Berry Hill Bees in just in case for those who are caffeine addicts  Add pastries or biscotti to complete the experience.

2. Popcorn Making & Movie Premiere

Turn your living room into a mini theater! Set up a popcorn station with toppings like cheddar powder, caramel drizzle, or spicy seasoning. Pair it with … Read More »

Winter Harvest Guide: Here are 6 Seasonal Produce and Where They Come From

Winter may seem like a quieter time for fresh produce, but there’s still plenty of seasonal goodness available to brighten your table. At Three Rivers Co-Op, we’re thrilled to feature local and organic produce that’s at its best between now and the end of the year. Here’s a guide to what’s in season and how to use it for delicious, comforting winter meals.

1. Winter Squash (Butternut, Acorn, Delicata) – Sustainable Harvest Farm

2. Sweet Potatoes – Spencer Mtn. Produce

3. Delicata Squash – Blessed Creek Farm

4. Kale and Other Winter Greens – Hines Valley Farm

5. Eggplants – Vuck Farm

6. Leeks and Onions – Spencer Mtn. Produce

Make the most of winter produce by experimenting with these delicious recipes from our friends at the Co-Op:

Red Lentil Stew with Kale
Roasted Root Vegetables with … Read More »