East Tennessee's Mountain Views April 2024 Edition

BDaley, the owner of HBG Yachts in Knoxville. We are excited to present our interview with Colin to you.

MV: Tell our readers a little bit about

yourself and HBG Yachts.

Colin: I have been selling boats in the Knoxville area since 1996 and am known as a local expert in boat and yacht sales. I developed my experience on the rivers and lakes locally selling both new and brokerage vessels.

As a yacht sales veteran, my team and I can advise clients on all aspects of boat buying, selling, services, and local cruising. Most importantly, we will assess your needs, and locate the best boat for your use and budget. For boat owners looking to sell, HBG can assess your vessel s value and get it sold quickly. We are experts in all styles of boats, and knowledgeably guide our clients toward the best, most informed boat sales decisions. We are a full-service operation uniquely positioned to satisfy all your boating, storage, and service needs whether for regular boating, or a convenient sales experience.

MV: Buying or selling a boat is a big deal and can be quite stressful. Tell us about your boat brokerage operation.

Colin: HBG offering boaters a combined 25 years’ experience and expertise of selling boats in all sizes and price ranges. We will give you the boat buying or selling experience of a lifetime by handling every aspect of the selling or buying process. For boat owners, there are a variety of reasons a client decides to sell a boat. Sometimes it is out of necessity; our goal is to get the highest value for their boat, and a quick sale. Other clients want to upgrade, and we can conveniently sell their current boat and help locate their next boat as a buyer’s broker.

Great

Wlooking to relocate to the area. Future articles will highlight the beautiful Smoky Mountain region - its scenery and points of interest as well as its history. We also will provide articles that will acclimate you to the area and give you information that will benefit you personally. We hope you enjoy our publication!

Spring is a time of renewal when we witness new leaves starting to show on trees and bushes and colorful spring blooms putting on a beautiful show. Here in East Tennessee, dogwood blooms are celebrated all month long with color finally coming back to the landscape, brightening our surroundings, and lifting our spirits. And activity is picking up in the area as the days and evenings warm up. Recreation opportunities, special events, and travel options are slowly opening up again.

Personally, I get energized and inspired in spring to get outside and take in nature at every opportunity. We’ve lived in this area for 2 ½ years now, and I grow to appreciate it more and more. One of my very favorite local outdoor activities is visiting Dollywood. We love the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, the shows, and the rides. The Wild Eagle is my favorite, with Lightning Rod coming in a very close second. And we’re usually the oldest ones in line!

But the thing that I enjoy most about visiting Dollywood is what I enjoy most about East Tennessee in general. It’s the environment and the people. I feel like I can be myself. I was explaining this to a woman I’d just met at a wedding recently, and she said, “That sounds like freedom.”

Surrounded by patriotism, support for our first responders, love of God, and love for your neighbor. Respect, kindness, selflessness. This is where we live. How blessed we are!

April in the Knoxville area is full of activity, and we hope you can get out and enjoy some of those events. It’s time to shed the winter blues and enjoy the bright colors of spring in our area. From the Dogwood Arts Festival to the natural landscape all around us, God’s glory shines here in East Tennessee.

Kathy Rose

East Tennessee’s Mountain Views

HBG Yacht Sales cover

article continued ...

We take your boat from listing to sold as fast as the market allows and you won t have to lift a finger. Our commitment is to help you eliminate the hassle of selling your boat and to bring you the best return. Selling your boat can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. From advertising and listing your boat to the closing process and test runs, there can be a lot to do! Whether this is your first boat sale or you’ re an experienced boater who just wants it sold, we re dedicated to delivering a seamless, secure transaction.

MV: Can you tell us about your team members?

Colin: Of course. Including myself, we have a team of three brokers on staff. My son, Alex Daley, joined us full time after growing up in and around the business and graduating from UT Knoxville in 2021. Robbie Casey is a seasoned 100-ton captain, boating expert, and a key member of our team.

MV: You also provide boat service and repairs. Can you tell us about that?

Colin: We recently acquired Simplified Yachting Services (SYS), a full-service marine service provider. SYS offers mobile capabilities and can come right to your vessel! Whether you keep your boat at a marina or private dock, our service crew is fully mobile. Our motto for service and repairs is, “Boat Service Simplified”. We pride ourselves in effective communications and are committed to prompt follow-through and exceptional customer service. We provide boat and engine repair, preventative maintenance, and general system repairs.

MV: Anything else you feel would be important to add or that you want readers to know?

Colin: Yes! We recently became Pursuit, Pathfinder and Cobia Boat dealers to add to our upper-tier quality boat offerings. Center console boats are becoming a very popular style in our boating community due to their versatility for family boating and fishing, ease of maintenance and comfortable ride.

At our core, HBG is about delivering trustworthy and dependable service, and treating our customers as we d like to be treated. We believe in building long-term relationships based on prompt and effective service, and being known as the best at what we do in our community. That’s because this is where we’re from, and where we plan to be. We look

forward to serving you.

Conveniently located off Lovell Road on Dutchtown Road in Knoxville, in addition to exceptional service, HBG Yacht Sales offers covered and trailered boat storage, making the sale process simpler and more accessible to potential buyers. With 24 years of experience in boat and yacht sales, HBG has a world-class network of relationships and resources to not only sell

ADD A 4TH GARAGE BAY FOR $23,900 FREE

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This expansive 2,386 sq. ft. home, with a very large 3 or 4-car garage will be built for you on our significantly oversized lot in Kahite. This home offers 3 garage bays, but you can add a 4th bay for your boat, trailer, any motorized “toys,” or as a workshop. If you want an optional “drive-through” garage, the 4th bay can accommodate that request.

The beautiful Lakeaire II design is one of our most popular custom designs, with many models built throughout Tellico Village and in other waterfront communities. This home has all the elements for an easy one floor “ranch style” living. The main living area features an open floor plan and a professionally designed and expansive kitchen and hearth room with fireplace, along with a built-in custom dry bar (or hutch). The luxurious master suite features BoTH a walk-in shower and a Roman tub. Also included are his and her closets and French doors that open to the spacious sun room. This fabulous model has often been built with an optional full size bonus room over the spacious 3-1/2 car garage.

Spring

with countless achievements. With a combined

us to guide you to success in the thriving 2024 market. Let our track record of excellence turn your real estate ambitions into reality.

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The Early Church Grows

After Luke wrote his Gospel, he traveled with Paul and Barnabus on their mission trips to spread the Good News of Jesus to cities in Asia Minor and then in Europe. The Christian Church exploded as thousands of Jews and Gentiles became believers in saving work of Jesus Christ and in turn many more believed and were brought into the fold. The book of Acts, authored by Luke, records the history of the early Church. Pastor David Talley will continue his study in Acts relating the events of the early Church to our lives today.

Here at First Baptist Church of Tellico Village we try to make everyone feel at home. We have always been known as a friendly church caring for the needs of our members and guests. We do livestream our Sunday morning Worship Service beginning at 10:30 AM. If you would like to watch our service, simply go to FBCTV.org and click on the livestream link. We also serve a wonderful dinner every Wednesday evening and guests are welcome. Call the Church office for details at 865-408-0110.

If you are looking for a church home, come and worship with us as Pastor Dave teaches us about ‘Acts of the Apostles’ and shares the Words of Jesus. Enjoy a worshipful experience with our music and worship team that includes choir and orchestra. Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples and we take that charge quite seriously. Under the leadership of Associate Pastor Kem Lindsay, we offer several adult Sunday Bible study options at 9:00 AM. Morning Worship Service follows at 10:30 AM. For more info visit FBCTV.org.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE 205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774 (865) 408-0110 | www.fbctv.org

TO BELONG

On a recent Sunday, I gathered during the fellowship hour with a handful of potential new members. We had a wonderful discussion, and I look forward to welcoming some new members very soon after Easter. Whenever I am meeting with potential new members or visitors, I am always asking myself what information I should try to communicate. Of course, communicating information is not all of what such meetings are about. Forming relationships and trust is equally essential. However, I also do want to let people know who we are as a community. This often involves telling them about all the helping organizations we are involved with. I also tell them that we are largely a community of folks from “elsewhere.” Shepherd of the Lake boasts members from many different states and both coastlines. I also usually end up sharing at least some piece of our Lutheran theological heritage and history I found myself at this last gathering talking about something that it had never occurred to me to mention before: what it means to be a member of a Church. In former generations, folks took for granted that one should “belong” to a Church. In some more rural areas especially, it was assumed that you would be a member of one or the other local congregations. Younger people these days, however, are less likely to formally belong to a Church. It strikes me that some reflection on what it means to “belong” is appropriate.

Being a member of a Lutheran Church also means that you believe that the Lutheran Confessions of the 16th century are faithful interpretations and explications of the faith.

Perhaps firstly, to belong to a Church means that you accept the faith they teach as your own. This might go without saying but is an important aspect of Church membership. When you join a Church, you are saying “Amen” to at least the important parts of that Churches proclamation. For a Lutheran Church like ours, this means for instance that you accept the Scriptures as the primary way in which God has chosen to communicate with His people. It means accepting the creeds we say during worship as an accurate articulation of that Bible based faith. It means acknowledging the sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion as means of grace initiated by God.

Being a member of a Lutheran Church also means that you believe that the Lutheran Confessions of the 16th century are faithful interpretations and explications of the faith. These documents, like the Augsburg Confession and the large catechism, might not come up very often in our life together, but they are always there in the background. If I have done my job right, hopefully they form and inform how I preach and teach. None of this means that each member of the Church will believe exactly the same thing. Agreement in every last detail is not only unnecessary but would probably be impossible to reach. But, agreement in these essentials is a part of the glue of the Church’s life. For instance, if you did not believe that the Bible was God’s Word, to listen to me preach on it every week would probably not mean much to you. Likewise, if you did not believe that Holy Communion was instituted and commanded by Christ, taking communion each week would probably not interest you. In this way, what we do together as Church is an expression of what we believe.

Of course, belonging to a Church is more than assent to a set of doctrines. It also means being a part of the body of Christ here in this place. It means being in relationship to other people and to share both our joys and struggles. It is especially true here at Shepherd of the Lake that belonging means to be a member of a family. Like all other families we are not perfect, but I for one can think of no other place I would want to be when Sunday mornings roll around.

shepherdofthelaketn.org

Our PLACE plans May Gala to Continue Expansion

By Diane streVer anD celia Gruzalski for OurPlace tn

Please “Save the date” for the Gala to benefit Our PLACE, which will take place on Sunday, May 19th from 5-10 pm at the Yacht Club at Tellico Village. Our PLACE will be hosting its Spring Capital Campaign Fundraiser & Gala in order to grow donations in support of the organization’s Capital Fund for further expansion. Cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres will start at 5pm, dinner at 6:30 pm, with a DJ playing throughout the evening for dancing. A silent auction will run throughout the evening with larger ticket items to be featured in a live auction. Tickets are available for $100 per person. When you RSVP there is the option of choosing a steak, seafood, or vegetarian dinner for the entree. Payment can be made online. For more information on the Fundraising Gala, or to make reservations, go to ourplacetn.org. If you have questions regarding the event, contact Ginny Ranck (865) 271-8101 or at ginnyr@ourplacetn.org., Shawn Tallant (703) 399-1826 or shawnt@ourplacetn.org., or Brandi @ Our PLACE, (865) 657-7222. The Phase I expansion at Our PLACE is moving forward. The concrete has been poured for the patio, and the framing of the additional interior space is underway

Our Moment of Joy individual this month is Kathryn, who has attended the program at Our PLACE twice a week for 18 months. She grew up on a farm in North Carolina, the middle child of three girls. Kathryn married and raised three girls, living with her family in the Chicago suburbs until moving back to TN to be closer to “back home.” Kathryn and her husband purchased a funeral home and established the family in Loudon. She is blessed to have five grandchildren and three great grandchildren, who bring joy to her life.

Kathryn’s three daughters decided that the program at Our PLACE would give her some variety in her week, as well as provide stimulating activities that keep her active, engaged, and entertained. She loves the visits of the therapy dogs, enjoys crafting, and listening to the groups who come in to provide music. Her daughters share the care of their mother and feel it’s important to have her surrounded by the positive, happy people she sees at Our PLACE.

Her daughter Reneé says that “she always puts on her best face when she goes to the center,” and this writer can attest that Kathyrn always has a pleasant, kind, and caring personality. Having her mother in the program gives the family the ability to “work without fear that she is in danger somehow, somewhere. We don’t worry or feel guilty on the days she is there.”

Her daughter Reneé shared that Kathryn made a beautiful picture in the program’s craft sessions. Her sister Amy, with her mother’s permission, wrapped the picture and held a lottery at the family Christmas gathering to decide who might win the artwork. Her granddaughter was the lucky name pulled to cherish the picture her grandmother had created. Truly a Moment of Joy for this entire family!

Our PLACE is an independent, 501©(3) nonprofit that seeks to improve quality of life by providing a day program of care, social interaction, and therapeutic activities in a safe and nurturing environment for adults living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases.

Our Place TN 103 Cheeyo Way Loudon, TN 37774 865-657-7222

April 6: Little Italy 5:45 PM to 8:30 PM

April 19: Sherrill Hills Retirement Facility 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

April 27: American Legion Fundraiser for Veterans @ Tellico Yacht Club 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

CHEO

with Kerry

Brown of Strong Roots Resources

Monday, April 15, 2024

6:30 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm Program

Come join Kerry Brown to learn about a few ways you can produce nutrient dense sprouts, microgreens and even salad greens using simple indoor systems or in small patios spaces. Kerry will lead you through a brief presentation accompanied with photos and examples and will be happy to answer all of your questions afterwards. Great Door prize provided by Kerry.

CHEO programs are free for members, with a $10.00 suggested minimum donation for all guests. CHEO is a non-profit organization supporting holistic and integrative wellness. CHEO provides the community with many opportunities to discover pathways to well-being.

Save the date: Next month’s CHEO program will be May 20. Topic and location to be announced soon.

Questions??? contact Diane Minch at 423 884 6031 or send an email to us on the CHEO website. www.cheoknox.org

CHEO is a nonprofit organization and expressly disclaims all liability.

I t ’ s f i n a l l y s p r i n g ! W i t h t h e c l e a n f r e s h a i r a n d t h e w a r m s p r i n g w e a t h e r I f i n d m y e y e d r i f t i n g t o l o o k o u t t h e w i n d o w s e v e n m o r e o f t e n a t t h i s t i m e o f y e a r - a n d f r a m i n g m y v i e w o f t h e o u t s i d e s m a k e s i t e v e n m o r e b e a u t i f u l W i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s a r e a g r e a t w a y t o c o m p l e t e a r o o m b y a d d i n g v i s u a l i n t e r e s t a n d b r i n g i n g t h e c e i l i n g a n d y o u r f u r n i t u r e t o g e t h e r , w h i l e a l s o s o l v i n g a h o s t o f p o t e n t i a l p r o b l e m s l i k e l a c k o f p r i v a c y , s u n g l a r e , e c h o , a n d m o r e T h e y a l s o a r e o n e o f o u r s p e c i a l t i e s W e o f t e n h e a r o u r c l i e n t s t e l l u s h o w m u c h t h e y l o v e t h e i r v i e w , a n d h o w t h e y d o n ’ t w a n t t o c o v e r i t u p Y e t , t i m e a f t e r t i m e t h e y ’ r e a m a z e d a t h o w m u c h m o r e b e a u t i f u l t h e i r v i e w i s w h e n i t i s e n h a n c e d w i t h c u s t o m w i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s T h i n k o f a p i e c e o f a r t p a i n t e d o n a c a n v a s , i t ’ s b e a u t i f u l o n i t ’ s o w n , b u t w h e n i t i s f r a m e d p r o p e r l y y o u c a n e n h a n c e y o u r f a v o r i t e e l e m e n t s o f t h e a r t w o r k , i n c r e a s e t h e s c a l e o f t h e p i e c e , a n d m a k e t h e p i e c e o f a r t e v e n m o r e s t r i k i n g T h e s a m e i s t r u e f o r w i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s B y a d d i n g v i s u a l h e i g h t t o t h e w i n d o w y o u c a n t r i c k t h e e y e i n t o s e e i n g a l a r g e r w i n d o w a s w e l l A d d i n g w i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s t o y o u r w i n d o w c a n a l s o g i v e y o u a d d e d f u n c t i o n a l i t y t o o P e r h a p s y o u h a v e s t r o n g m i d - d a y s u n r e f l e c t i n g o f f t h e w a t e r o r h a r s h g l a r e a t c e r t a i n t i m e s o f d a y w h e r e f i l t e r i n g o r b l o c k i n g t h e l i g h t w o u l d b e n i c e W h e n y o u h a v e t a l l c e i l i n g s a n d a l o t o f h a r d s u r f a c e s , y o u m a y h a v e a n e c h o i n c e r t a i n r o o m s I n t h e s e s i t u a t i o n s , w i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s c a n p r o v i d e s o u n d d a m p e n i n g t h a t c a n a b s o r b s o m e o f t h e s o u n d , i n s t e a d o f b o u n c i n g i t a r o u n d T h e r e a r e e v e n w i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s s t y l e s t h a t c

Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

cPa

By yVonne Marsh, cfP®,

Last year, when a client tried to file his tax return, he was notified by the IRS that a return had already been filed under his social security number. After doing some research, we found that identity thieves had swooped in early and filed a fraudulent tax return, claiming a large refund which had been direct deposited to a bank account. We then had to submit additional proof that our client was the rightful owner of the social security number before the return could be processed – a long and laborious process, as you can imagine. And unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated instance – tax fraud is on the rise.

While it seems that identity theft is all around us, the good news is that there are easy steps you can take to minimize your risk. Here are some quick tips:

» Freeze your credit with all three major credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — which restricts

access to your credit report so new credit can’t be open under your name without your permission. It’s a free service and you just need to remember to unfreeze it temporarily if you apply for new credit.

» Stay vigilant and know what is being reported on your credit

» Order a free credit report from the government-mandated www.annualcreditreport.com or directly from each credit bureau.

» Order a free report of banking information reported in your name from www.chexsystems.com

» Proactively request an IRS Identity Protection PIN that must be provided for your return to be successfully filed.

» Be alert for statements that don’t arrive on time – the mailing address may have changed.

» Review not just your bank and credit card statements, but your health insurance statement of benefits too. Health insurance fraud is a booming business.

» Shred credit card offers that come in the mail, or better yet, request to stop receiving them at www. optoutprescreen.com

» Monitor your minor children’s credit report - a child’s social security number may be compromised for years

Heritage

first learned about Heritage Family Dentistry when I was a patient of Dr. Bradshaw at the University of Tennessee,” said Heidi Hodges.

“I had stopped going to the dentist because of several past negative experiences.

“I chipped a tooth when I was pregnant with my fourth

before it is discovered.

» Don’t use public wi-fi for banking or shopping transactions.

If your identity does get stolen despite your best efforts, go to identityTheft.gov to report identity theft and set up a recovery plan that will guide you through each recovery step, including pre-fill letters and forms for you to send to businesses and debt collectors. And remember, consistent, diligent vigilance is your best protection – and it’s free!

Marsh Wealth Management, LLC

Fiduciary Registered Investment Advisor 504 Ebenezer Road Knoxville, TN 37923

865-622-2162

child. I knew Dr. Bradshaw from my church, so I called him and he quickly took care of my chipped tooth. I was so happy with how he cared for me that I decided to follow him to his practice.

“I was very apprehensive at first, but Dr. Bradshaw and his team fully explained treatment and procedure to me in detail. They have been very understanding of my fears. I now visit Heritage Family Dentistry every six months, and they feel just like family.

“All of the people that work at Heritage Family Dental are wonderful. I have had cleanings, a filling, a crown, and currently have Invisalign.”

Invisalign is the latest and most advanced treatment for straightening teeth without metal braces. The clear aligners are almost undetectable by others, and some patients see visible results in as little as six months.

“I would highly recommend Heritage Family Dentistry to everyone,” said Heidi. “My experiences have been great, and I am so thankful to have a dentist to go to where I am not fearful.”

To learn more about Heritage Family Dentistry or to schedule a tour and no-obligation consultation, contact them at 865-816-9211 today.

Heritage Family Dentistry 11121 Kingston Pike, Suite C Farragut, TN 37934 865-816-9211

www.hfdsmiles.com

The Yacht Club in Tellico Village Announces New Management and Updated Menu

The menus include weekly specials, appetizers, sandwiches, hamburgers, soups, salads, pasta, entrees, and sides along with a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

“The

In

The Yacht Club is a 20,400 square-foot building. It offers a lounge, dining rooms with large windows overlooking the lake and rolling hills and an upstairs bridal suite for couples getting married at The Yacht Club. It’s a scenic choice for those looking for pleasant scenery while enjoying a meal or celebrating an event. The Club is adjacent to the largest marina in Tellico Village and provides guest docks for boaters allowing them to sail, or boat, to dine. Anyone is welcome to dine at the Loudon County restaurant; it is not just for those who live at Tellico Village. There is live music every Friday evening beginning at 7 p.m. This is just one way the Village hopes to bring the community together for some wholesome fun. Other popular events include wine tastings, chef cook-off challenges and holiday events.

The Yacht Club is open Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round.

SPRING TRUNK SHOW

April 18-20

Atrunk show is a special event in the fashion world when a designer puts on a display of their best work for review by a select group of buyers or fashionistas. Since all of our clientele are the best of the best, we extend an invitation to each of you!

We can give our customers an opportunity to view the entire line and special order pieces for themselves that may not be seen anywhere else in the area. One of our favorite companies to host a trunk show with is Sympli, a Canadian line as diverse as any we represent. We will be hosting a Sympli trunk show featuring spring and summer designs for you to view and order for yourself!

We are so excited to have our Sympli representative, Christina, with us on April 18th to do a Sympli wardrobe seminar and fashion show. There will be two seatings available at 11:00am and 2:00pm. Seating is limited, so please call us at 423-337-5537 to RSVP! Join us for a fun and fashion filled day with refreshments, and lots of excitement to see new colors and styles from one of our favorite lines, Sympli!

Sympli samples will be at the boutique April 18th through April 20th, so if you’re unable to attend the fashion show, stop by and we’re happy to show you the line.

The Lily Pad Boutique

209 N. Main Street

Sweetwater, TN 37874

423-337-5537

www.lilypadboutiqueonline.com

Mon-Sat: 10am-5:30pm

@shopthelilypad

SECTION B

First Line of Defense

By BoB Ferraro, H.I.S

Tinnitus is a condition that involves perceiving ringing or other noises in one or both ears. The sounds can be constant or intermittent and range from highpitched ringing to buzzing, roaring, clicking, hissing, or humming. While each person’s exact cause can be unknown, tinnitus is usually related to some form of damage to the auditory system. Some potential causes include age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, earwax buildup, traumatic brain injury, ear bone changes, and side effects from certain medications. The perceived sounds are generated by abnormal nerve signaling activity rather than an external sound source. For many people, tinnitus improves over time as the auditory system adapts to the nerve signals. However, for some the condition is chronic and can significantly impact daily life. Tinnitus has no cure, but certain management strategies may provide relief. These include sound therapy, stress management, dietary changes, and cognitive behavioral therapy. With proper management, most people can find ways to tune out and cope with the phantom sounds over time.

The main goal of tinnitus management is to make it less noticeable and help patients cope with the condition in their daily lives. Various strategies for managing tinnitus include sound therapy, stress management, behavioral therapy, dietary changes, and alternative approaches. Sound therapy introduces external noise to mask the tinnitus or provide distraction. This can involve using devices that produce soothing sounds or simple solutions like fans or music. Stress management through relaxation techniques helps reduce anxiety that often makes tinnitus worse. Behavioral therapy changes how patients think about and react to tinnitus. Dietary changes like limiting caffeine, alcohol, and salt may help allevi-

ate symptoms. Alternative approaches like acupuncture, hypnosis, or herbal remedies also aim to reduce the effects of tinnitus. Tinnitus management requires trying different techniques to find an individualized approach that provides the most relief. The goal is making tinnitus less of a burden so patients can focus on daily activities.

Tinnitus management with hearing aids can provide significant relief. Hearing aids work by amplifying external sounds that help mask and distract from tinnitus. This amplification allows the brain to focus less on the internal noises. Hearing aids also increase stimulation of the auditory nerve and areas of the brain responsible for hearing. This helps retrain the brain to process sound in a more normal way. Hearing aids are often programmed specifically to amplify certain frequencies and sounds that are particularly helpful for tinnitus relief. Professionals can adjust the settings to find the optimal combination for each individual. Using hearing aids takes consistency and patience as the brain adapts to relying less on the tinnitus. But with regular use, most patients find their tinnitus decreases and they can better cope with residual symptoms. Hearing aids are an excellent first-line treatment approach for tinnitus

One Family’s Dedication

Blinds & More E. TN is a family owned and operated custom window treatment design service dedicated to serving their community by offering quality custom window treatments and exceptional service. When asked, “What is the most important part of your business?” Blinds & More quickly responded with “Treating our clients with respect and integrity, you do that first, everything else just falls into place.”

With over four decades of design and sales experience Robbie and Jamie Kidd combined their professional careers to create Blinds & More E. TN. In 2022 their oldest son Del Fercho, who after serving 10 years in the Air Force stepped into the family business as lead installer with natural ease. While Robbie’s primary focus is service and making sure all expectations are met, Jamie applies her specialized 20 year focus on the design side of your window treatments. Her ability to discern her clients’ likes and dislikes make meeting expectations a breeze. “I want my clients to be a part of the process and love their selections”. The Blinds & More family is a Concierge In Home Service. We Come to You, so let our family serve your family by giving us a call today.

We love our gorgeous new Roman shades! They’re just what we had envisioned... the perfect finishing touch of softness for our dining area. Using the remote for motorized control to block our bright afternoon sun is “the cherry on top!” Both beauty and function!” - A. Oshea, TN National

Whether you’re reimagining a bedroom or ready to update the entire exterior, your home is our priority. Side to side, top to bottom, inside out, and outside in, CertaPro Painters ® is committed to painting every side of life in our community.

• Professional painters - We arrive on time. We work around your needs and schedule. We take pride in serving the neighborhoods we live in, too!

• Transparent estimates - Schedule your free detailed in-home painting proposal.

• Color choices made simple - Using our online color visualizer, My PaintColors , you can easily see how new paint colors can transform your home – before your painting project even begins!

In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of working from home has become increasingly prevalent.

Whether you’re conducting business meetings or managing household affairs, having a designated home office is essential for productivity and organization. However, organizing a home office goes beyond simply placing a computer on a desk; it’s about creating a space that maximizes efficiency and comfort.

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When it comes to design aesthetics, The Tailored Closet offers a wide range of finishes and styles to complement your existing décor. Whether you

Maximizing Space and Style with Customized Garage Storage Cabinets

When it comes to organizing our homes, the garage often poses the greatest challenge. It’s a space that accumulates everything from tools and sports equipment to holiday decorations and gardening supplies. To tame this chaos and reclaim the functionality of your garage, custom garage storage cabinets offer a tailored solution that combines efficiency with style.

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East Tennessee Area Wildlife: Black Bear

Photographing the beauty of Tennessee, and the wildlife who call it home.

IBy kalley cook

can’t believe I haven’t yet done an article on black bears, but no better time to share it now because they will be emerging from their winter dens. Although black bears aren’t true hibernators, they do enter long periods of sleep which can be called denning, carnivore lethargy or “torpor”. During their sleep, their heart rate and breathing do decrease significantly but they can wake up from time to time during the winter if there is a disturbance or a warm snap. Pregnant females stay in the den longer than a male and will doze on and off all winter as her cubs feed and grow and wait for spring. Their denning locations can be just on the ground, hollow stumps, tree cavities, or wherever there is shelter. Black bears don’t go into this sleep because of the cold, but instead to cope with the lack of food during the winter months. If you ever come across black bears in their winter’s sleep, it’s important to never disturb them as they can wake up very easily and go into full attack mode! Here’s to hoping for many healthy little ones this spring, along with plentiful food sources!

Contact: Kalleybcook@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/

Though wildlife and nature photography hold her heart, you can contact Kalley for all of your photography needs, including sports, portraits, still life, food, real-estate, weddings, and photojournalism.

Kalley uses a Canon 7d markii, paired with a Canon 100-400mm lens for all of her photos. You can purchase photos or prints of Kalley’s wildlife photography on a variety of products (mugs, mousepads, magnets, etc.).

Have a favorite animal that you’d like some text included? Custom orders welcome. Just go to https://kalleycook.smugmug. com or email Kalley. Shipping is available.

LUXURY VINYL PLANK FLOORING

The Look and Feel of Genuine Hardwood or Stone for a Fraction of the Price

By rIck kleveno – owner - country carpet & FloorIng / caBInetS

I’ve been in the flooring industry for over four decades now, and in all that time, I’ve witnessed quite the evolution in the marketplace. Some truly innovative new products have been introduced. But do you know the one product that stands out in my mind? It’s called Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring.

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Country Carpet & Flooring / Cabinets

3107 Highway 411

(Across from Sequoyah High School) Madisonville, TN 37354 423-442-8860

countrycarpet@bellsouth.net

Mom’s Home - The female osprey can be distinguished from the male by two things: the female is larger but if you look at her chest, you can see a brown coloring which is called a ‘necklace’. Mom had left the nest for a very quick drink since it was very hot this morning but was right back in the nest within minutes.

Cherry Trees - This is always such a fun time to observe the bears as they rip through these cherry trees and eat every last cherry. But, it’s also a little nerve racking since they are in the tip-top of the trees swaying back and forth. Regardless of the nerves, I loved watching this sow and her cub getting their bellies full!

Munching Bear - I came across a black bear eating vegetation one morning, which is part of their diet. Black bears are omnivores and will prey on other animals, but they mostly eat plant matter, berries, insects, grubs and nuts.

Winter Bear - I came across this beautiful female in December probably right before she denned for the winter. She munched on plants for a few minutes before disappearing back into the woods. Our time together was very short, but I loved seeing this large female.

The weather has definitely been changing. During the last 100 years, our average last frost has been mid-April. For the last three years, it has been March 19. I’m not sure what it will be this year, but I don’t see anything below freezing in the longrange forecast.

I don’t trust it.

Since I have lived in Tennessee most of my life, I have been here for snow in April and frost in May. All I can say is don’t get in a hurry, and be prepared to cover tender plants. We have had so many beautiful days that many of you are already ahead on the gardening schedule. Here are some things you can do if you haven’t been out there working yet.

» If you haven’t done your walk around, this is the time. See what damage has been done by cold, critters, and disease. What needs to be pruned, divided, transplanted, or composted? Have things changed in the area? Make your plans for what you want to get done this year and take those first steps.

» Please don’t get in a hurry to cut back plants that were damaged by a freeze. If the branches are flexible, the plant is alive. Also, remember that leaves do not “fix.” A leaf with a hole or a brown spot will always have a hole or spot. The plant will push that leaf off and grow a new one. Treatments are to ensure that the new leaves do not have the same issues with insects and diseases, not to fix existing leaves.

» While we have more than our share of damaging insects, remember that many bugs are either benign or helpful. Don’t start drenching your plants in insecticide at the first sign of movement. Our pollinators are being harmed by the vast overuse of chemicals, and we need them to survive.

» If you saw fungal damage during your checkup, make sure you get any diseased leaves cleaned up and away. That will go a long way in preventing future problems. Plants that are prone to fungal problems, such as roses, will need constant vigilance and preventative measures.

» Get your planting beds ready if you have not already done so. Work in compost or aged manure to add nutrients. Get weeds out and apply a pre-emergent to make your life easier. Do not use a pre-emergent if you are going to plant seeds, however!

» I know it has been warm, but I suggest you wait until mid-April to plant tomatoes, peppers, and corn. Super sweet varieties of corn should wait until the soil is around 70 degrees, which is usually early May. If you have questions, our Gardening Workshop on April 13th is the place to be.

» If you must plant annuals now, there are some frost resistant varieties such as petunias, geraniums, and snapdragons. It is safest to wait until later in the month to plant hollow stemmed annuals such as impatiens and begonias. They tend to turn to mush if we have a late frost.

» Get your containers ready for spring. If they are large or have permanent occupants (shrubs, perennials, etc.,) you do not have to dump the dirt out every year. Top dress them with a couple of inches of compost or fresh soil instead. After 3-5 years, you really need to take everything out and start all over. Please use good quality soil because it will be the source of nutrients for your plants for their entire life. Cheap soil is dooming it to a lifetime of pizza and soda.

» If your containers are small, dump the soil out and rinse the pot. If the plants had any fungal problems, mix a tablespoon of bleach into a gallon of water and pour it into the pot, then rinse it out. Refill the container with fresh, good quality soil that is specifically for containers. I primarily use Fox Farm or EarthMix.

» If some of your spring blooming shrubs and trees need a trim, do that within a couple of weeks after they finish blooming. Please educate yourself! Permanent damage can be done by careless whacking.

» Don’t cut bulbs back until after the foliage has yellowed. They need to store up nutrients for next year. BulbTone or Bone meal will help.

» Keep those bird feeders clean and full! There are lots of babies

IThis

the perfect time to install Undercover Systems’ totally unique underdeck ceiling system under your home’s existing raised decks. This totally proprietary and patented underdeck system will ensure that this year’s outdoor gatherings will be protected from unexpected and unwanted rain, the searing summertime sun, and next winter’s sleet and snow. You’ll appreciate Undercover Systems’ attention to detail, which comes from years of experience, as they help you craft a seamless transition from your home’s interior to your new out-of-door living spaces. Underdeck ceilings are available in a variety of colors and textures - even bead board! - to perfectly complement your existing architecture and landscaping plans.

“It’s great time to weatherproof all of your future out-of-door events,” said Jim Conn, owner of Undercover Systems. “Throughout the entire process, our skilled craftsmen work with you, each step of the way, from consultation until your project is completed to your satisfaction. And because each underdeck system we install is custom made by Undercover Systems specifically for your individual home, you can be assured of many years of reliable, trouble-free family enjoyment. Most of our competitors use generic, off-the-shelf components found at the big box home improvement stores. Our underdeck product is totally supported by Undercover Systems’ gutter system and not your home’s decking as with competitive systems. This promotes greater air circulation and deck longevity. A fact that homeowners always appreciate!”

A complaint-free member of the Better Business Bureau, Undercover Systems offers you the peace of mind that you deserve in a building contractor.

Why not start creating a lifetime of memories by surprising your family this season with a special springtime gift that the entire family can enjoy all year long? Call Jim Conn today at 423-267-0091 and start celebrating every season out-of-doors.

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423.267.0091

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AThe Other Irish

By Bo carey

After the St. Patrick’s Day celebration concluded in March, it’s worthwhile to note a much different “Irish Parade” which arrived in East Tennessee just after the Revolutionary War. They were the Scots-Irish, filing in wave after wave from Pennsylvania.

These were the children of Ulstermen who’d fled Northern Ireland to escape British laws and taxes that had gone too far. Their Presbyterian faith reflected previous roots in Scotland. So, these were a people who found the mountains and foothills of East Tennessee very similar to their ancestral past in Scotland and Ireland.

Their fierce independence goes back to the days in North Ireland when they fought under William of Orange, lovingly referred to as “King Billy.”

re you someone who’s hand-picked the perfect (and expensive) Oriental rug for your living space, only to wonder over the years if wear and care is tarnishing its eye-catching beauty? Each Oriental rug is unique with a “magic” all its own, and yours is no exception. If you picked it out, it’s a representation of your particular taste, and if you inherited it, it’s a manifestation of your family’s history. In both cases, it’s a special investment-after all, you’ll never have another rug exactly like it. Preserving its colors, protecting its longevity, and maintaining its attractive appearance requires maintenance and care.

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» Superior Carpet and Rug Cleaning is a fine specialist in handling handmade rugs.

Owner, Kerry McDuffie, analyzes the make, age, and condition first and THEN carefully proceeds. He is thorough and knowledgeable and treats each rug with vital individual care. - J. Harmer, Lenoir City, TN

» I am so pleased! My 20+ year old oriental rug looks new... The colors are so vivid. I highly recommend them. Thank You! - W. Shepherd

» I wanted to thank you for the excellent job you did on the jute rugs in our den. They look as nice as they did when we first purchased them! The rugs in our hall and bedroom look equally as clean. We have been pleased each time we’ve used your company. - S. Wallace

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» I have known Kerry and used Superior Carpet and Rug Cleaning for many years. My rugs are cleaned perfectly and are always returned in beautiful condition. Superior Carpet and Rug Cleaning will always be my choice. - K. Gotcher Don’t wait! Call or text Superior Rug Cleaning at 865-680-1450, or email them at info@ superiorofknoxville.com or reach out on Facebook to schedule your Oriental rug cleaning today. Restore your rug to its full beauty and, once again, experience the “magic” of what it’s like to be absolutely in love with it!

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I subscribe to the theory they earned the name “hillbillies” for their love of these hills and passing down stories of ancestors fighting for King Billy. Another theory is that the University of Tennessee colors are a tribute to William of Orange.

Whether you believe this or not, there’s no denying how we became known as the Vols. When the call went out for soldiers to enlist for the War of 1812, this area produced three times as many “volunteers” as had been requested by the U.S. government. The vast majority of these enthusiastic recruits were Scots-Irish boys with a heritage of opposing British rule and risking their lives for freedom.

Bo Carey is a 7th generation Loudon County resident with a passion for local history. He is the owner of Greer’s Home Furnishings in Historic Loudon and is available for lectures or programs for any area group or civic club. Call (865) 659-2300. bocarey95@gmail.com office 865-458-2046