Early Morning Thoughts from the New Chair

Waking up a little after four this morning to a frigid 19 degrees, the forecast of clear skies meant a beautiful sunrise was likely over the Cumberland River. This time of the year, convection fog is common due to the warmer waters being released below Cordell Hull and Centerhill dam. The early morning twilight recharges me to conquer another day.

The Corleys have always been early risers, a family trait passed down over numerous generations. The genetic predisposition was beneficial to my early ancestors that settled in the Caney Fork river valley in 1802. They worked from sunrise to sunset in the unsettled eastern Middle Tennessee highlands. Having survived the Revolutionary War, two brothers loaded up their wagons with family possessions and a war land grant in hand, crossing the Smokies, heading west to the promised land. They found clean air in an untouched green paradise, located on a crystal clear creek with pure spring water flowing out of Corley Cave.

With the “progress of man” came an interstate Highway (I-40) that runs nearby, carrying fossil-fuel guzzlers that brought noxious fumes. The Caney Fork was dammed in the late 1940’s and continues to produce clean, hydroelectric power. With the rapid urbanization of Middle Tennessee, more electricity was needed, thus a large coal plant was built down stream on the Cumberland River in 1959. The Corleys were slowly losing the tranquility of their paradise.

Being an eighth generation Tennessean in pursuit of happiness, I continue to rise early and cherish each and every sunrise. From my early childhood, my parents and older brother instilled in me the vital importance of being responsible for my own actions and most importantly protecting the planet.

I sincerely appreciate the Tennessee Chapter Executive Committee’s vote of confidence in my chairing the Chapter. Our mission statement implores us to “explore and protect.” Fortunately, I have inherited a well oiled machine maintained by our past Chair, Mac Post. Continuing our mission with tranquility will be my primary responsibility. Together, we must encourage new memberships, including family and friends. The bigger our army, the more battles we can fight. Please become an early riser— enjoy Tennessee’s beautiful sunrises!

Happy trails,
Cris Corley, Chapter Chair