Join Us for a Season of Hope
One of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, The Biltmore Estate, has recently reopened after their forced closure due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene when it ripped through Western North Carolina.
Portions of Biltmore’s grounds and some of its buildings did suffer significant flood damage from Helene. However, Biltmore House, the Conservatory, winery, gardens and the estate’s hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm.
The holiday season is now underway for the 8,000-acre estate employing approximately 2,400 people. While the Biltmore House, restaurants and other estate attractions will be open to visitors, some trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice, and some areas will have limited access.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore, said in a statement.
“As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses and friends.”
According to Marissa Jamison, a Biltmore spokesperson, no storm-related fatalities were reported among staff; though several staff members did lose their homes, all have been accounted for.
Some are also out of work due to the decline of tourism in the area due to the storm. Biltmore is hopeful that all staff members will return in phases now that they have reopened.
Lizzie Whitcher, floral displays manager who has worked at Biltmore for 10 years and leads holiday decoration operations, said people in the Asheville area need something special this year. “It felt a little crazy to be decorating for Christmas when there are people who literally lost everything, but we had to remind ourselves, we’re not just doing this for Biltmore. We’re doing this for this whole area,” she said.
Chase Pickering, vice president of Biltmore House Guest Experience and Operations and great-great-grandson of George and Edith Vanderbilt said reopening was important for the local economy.
The entire staff at The Biltmore House are working to bring joy (and visitors) to the area through their hugely popular Christmas at Biltmore events.
“We are here in Western North Carolina. We are a resilient community, and Biltmore has for generations — for five generations now — been a beacon of hope,” Pickering said. “And this community stands for resiliency. It’s moments like this where we come together, and we find a way to come
back stronger and support each other and that is what resiliency means for WNC.”
Offering good tidings of comfort and joy, Christmas at Biltmore awaits you.
Now–January 5, 2025
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Candlelight Christmas Evenings, the glow of candlelight is a reminder that we can weather any storm. Plan your visit to Biltmore today to enjoy Christmas with those you love.
From Biltmore House to Antler Hill Village, fragrant wreaths, glittering garland, and thousands of sparkling ornaments create a one-of-kind holiday oasis. Dazzling by day, the house is truly magical during Candlelight Christmas Evenings, a 40-year tradition not to be missed.
Select ticket options include Chihuly at Biltmore and FREE next-day grounds access.
An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles,
fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Chihuly at BiltmoreA Thrilling New Exhibition
Now–February 2, 2025
Featured in museums and gardens around the world, including the spectacular 2018 Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition, Dale Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works have captivated millions.
Specially curated for Biltmore, a new experience of the world-renowned artist’s iconic creations awaits your discovery within the intimate gallery setting of Amherst at Deerpark®.
Reserve your admission tickets and special admission-inclusive overnight packages for this remarkable experience today.
Antler Hill Village Illumination
Now-February 17, 2025
Included with admission
Bask in the glow of a glittering cascade of lights illuminating trees, buildings, and the pathways that connect Antler
Continued on page 4A ...
Photos courtesy The Biltmore Company
The Banquet Hall Christmas Tree in Biltmore House is the holiday centerpiece.
The Lodge Gate during Christmas at Biltmore.
Staircase leading to The Dining Room at The Inn on Biltmore Estate.
The lobby of The Inn on Biltmore Estate.
P.O.
Welcome
The East Tennessee’s Mountain Views Team Tim & Kathy Rose, Tom & Judy Irmen, & Meredith Hancock Serving the Loudon & Monroe lake and
communities including Tellico Village, Kahite, Rarity Bay, Tennessee National, Avalon Golf Community, Harbour Place, Tellico Harbor, Foothills Pointe and WindRiver. East Tennessee’s Mountain Views is published monthly. P.O. Box 209, Vonore, TN 37885 For advertising information contact East Tennessee’s Mountain Views at 865-657-3077 Monday-Friday from 9am to 5pm Website: www.etmv.com E-Mail: rosekathy@etmv.com
December Insights From the Publisher
Yet another year has passed; each seems to go by more quickly than the last, and in many ways, this last year has been incredibly hard for so many. Please continue to pray for and support the victims of the hurricanes and floods; they’ll need it for a long time to come.
Even though many of us are struggling, it is good to remember that Christmas, itself, is message about hope - hope for the future, and a reminder that God is always there for us. Even as we decorate our homes with sparkling lights, the Light of Christmas pierces the gloom of winter symbolizing that hope.
With all the uncertainty and stress in the world, it can be reassuring to reflect on what is truly important in our lives. Things like friends, family, and loved ones, not to mention living in beautiful East Tennessee. Reflecting on our amazing area, it is not just the beauty of the landscape that makes this such a wonderful place to live, but it’s the people and the care shown for one another.
So, this holiday season, as we are busy with our everyday lives, take time to slow down and remember what’s important. You are important to us. We at East Tennessee’s Mountain Views have come to appreciate all of our readers and advertisers, many of whom have become great friends. We wish all of you and your families a blessed Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year. We look forward to continuing to serve our community by highlighting all the best the area has to offer while making new friends along the way. Enjoy the holiday season.
Hill Village’s unique shops, restaurants, and Winery. Experience this must-see part of the Christmas at Biltmore tradition, which includes festive displays adorning our relaxing Winery, where complimentary tastings await.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings - An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Santa at the Bandstand
November 29-30, December 1, 7-8, 14-23
Included with admission
Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery.
About Biltmore
Established in 1895 in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore is as impressive today as it was more than a century ago. In addition to Biltmore House, the 250-room French chateau known as America’s Largest Home, this beloved National Historic Landmark includes 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. Comprised of managed forests and farmland, a working vineyard, 20+ miles of nature trails, Antler Hill Village and its shops, restaurants, and
award-winning Winery, the estate also features such splendid overnight accommodations as a four-star Inn, a charming hotel, and a distinctive collection of private cottages. All this, plus seasonal exhibitions, outdoor activities, and live entertainment make Biltmore a oneof-a-kind destination.
Privately owned and maintained by his descendants, Biltmore remains true to George Vanderbilt’s original vision: a self-sustaining Blue Ridge Mountain estate and a luxurious retreat amid year-round natural beauty. Whether as a day trip or multi-night getaway, to experience Biltmore is to experience a legacy of gracious hospitality, timeless elegance, and an inspired sense of wonder. To learn more, go to Biltmore.com.
Knoxville Children’s Theatre, in partnership with the Clayton Foundation, will present a live production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. The play will be performed December 6th - 22nd. Thursdays and Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 1pm and 5pm, and Sundays at 3pm and 6pm.
In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids: probably the most inventively awful kids in history! You won’t believe the mayhem – and the fun – when the Herdman’s collide with the Christmas story head on!
The play is performed by twenty-four talented young actors ages 8 to 16. The cast includes KCT veterans Vivienne Bullard as Imogene Herdman, Mason Cox as Leroy Herdman, Julian Daniel as Ollie Herdman, Desmond Gondo as Claude Herdman and Harper Monday as Gladys Herdman. Mother and Father will be played by Leeland Robbins and Quinton Stiffler respectively, while Luna Chavez will portray Beth Bradley and Owen Bellamy will be playing Charlie Bradley. Joining them will be Connor Watters as Elmer and Rev. Hopkins, Lydia Komeshak as Mrs. Armstrong, and Chloe Beeler as Mrs. McCarthy. Also featured are KCT veterans , Camila Herrera, Hogan Honeycutt, Saha Lau, Caroline Simmons, Sophia Stiffler, and Auden Tatler. Making their KCT debuts in this production are Luke Bounds, Laila Brown, Amelia Carroll, Lola Longmire, Julia Luehrs and Camden Powell.
The show is directed by guest director Ashlee Latimer and designed by eleven student designers ages 10 to 16. KCT veteran Mason Johnson provides the scenic design with assistance from Madalynne Mathis.Tiger Ladaa will provide the lighting design with Assistance from Kyan McCoy. Percy Petit will provide the costume design with assistance from Nora Halliburton and Chloe Calder. The propsmasters are Grayson Wright, Hartley Narron, and Lily-Wells-Crawford. The play is stage managed by Maggie Ingle with assistance from Maggie McNally. KCT is East Tennessee’s leading producer of plays for children and families.
Biltmore cover article continued ...
Photos courtesy The Biltmore Company Holiday décor in Biltmore House’s Tapestry Gallery reflects Edith Vanderbilt’s many accompishments in her Blue Ridge Mountain home through royal blue, gold, and silver décor elements.
In honor of Hallmark Channel having filmed “A Biltmore Christmas” at the estate in January 2023, the Library is dressed in the classic style of the movie’s 1940s-era setting. The Library features mult-color décor with classic red and green elements and dramatic cascades of silver-sequined tinsel.
The East Tennessee Mountain Views Team
Built at 110 Wahuhu Circle with Craftsman style front elevation
optional 3-car garage.
Caregiver Support GroupsWarmth and Friendship
Welcome back to the Our PLACE monthly update. We wish you happy, healthy holidays spent with loved ones and friends! This month, we’ll explore the importance of caregiver support groups. Our PLACE hopes to expand these groups even further in the future. As always, we will share the life of our “Moment of Joy” individual.
We currently have participant openings, so if you have a loved one, friend, or neighbor who would benefit from our adult day center program, please share our information. We are always open to volunteers who want to share their time with us; visit https://
www.ourplacetn.org/get-involved to learn more about available volunteer opportunities. Our PLACE supports families and caregivers through respite, support groups, and education, allowing us to create more “Moments of Joy” for families and participants. Caregiver Support Groups provide emotional support, practical advice, and local community resources. The personal friendships and care you receive from other individuals in a local group provide you with a new community of support. These groups are open to any adult caregiver, regardless of whether their loved one has Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another chronic condition. If you live in Tellico Village, Stay in Tellico Village may be able to provide transportation or watch your loved one while you attend a group; their number is 865-458-7084.
Our PLACE Caregiver Support Groups meet monthly at three locations:
» First Thursday, 2-3 p.m. at Loudon Senior Center, 901 Main Street.
» Second Friday, 9-11 a.m. at Tellico Village Public Library, 301 Irene Lane, Loudon.
» Third Wednesday, for male caregivers, at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 260 Wade St., Loudon, just off Route 72. This group addresses the unique challenges male caregivers face.
And now to our “Moment of Joy” individual, Faye, who has been in the Our PLACE program for four months. Faye grew up on a farm in Lenoir City, and she met her future husband when she was a “flower girl” at a local funeral home. They were married for 68 years and had two children. Faye currently lives with her daughter. Faye was inducted into the Loudon County Republican Party Hall of Fame and worked in Loudon at several jobs. She also helped raise grandchildren and is truly an “anchor” through hard family times. She is happy when she attends Our PLACE, enjoying the crafts, games, and friendships. Her daughter says she knows her Mom is in a safe, caring program, which allows her to continue working. Faye is an avid Bunco player, telling friends they are “showing out” when they get Bunco dice combinations, truly a “Moment of Joy” when you see her smile!
Our PLACE is the only independent, nonprofit adult day center in East Tennessee. We provide person-centered care and dementia-specific therapies and interventions for adults while supporting their families and caregivers through respite, support groups, education, and resources, creating more “Moments of Joy” for these adults and their caregivers. For more information, call our Executive Director, Sarah Martin, at 865-657-7222 or visit www.ourplacetn.org.
OurPLACE TN 103 Cheeyo Way Loudon TN 37774
ODon’t Miss Out on the Christmas Cheer When
By Connie ferraro teLLiCo Hearing SoLutionS
f course, Christmas is about sharing time with family and friends, so for
have developed hearing loss, the holidays can be an especially
If you already have a great hearing aid, you will know the joy and improvement to the holiday experience that these modern devices can bring. But if you don’t, you may not even realize what you are missing!
People celebrate the holidays in all sorts of ways, but most of us have a few favorite sounds of the season.
With hearing aids, you can fully appreciate sounds like:
» Laughter from your children or grandchildren when they open their gifts.
» Church choirs singing.
» Christmas carolers going door to door.
» the clatter of pans as your Christmas turkey goes in the oven.
» Laughter and conversation at the family dinner table.
» A performance of your holiday favorites.
» Your favorite Christmas movie. Our hearing tests are free and easy.
During your hearing test we will determine :
» The quietest sound you can hear at different pitches. » How well you can hear speech.
» What type of hearing loss you have, if any.
» How your ears respond to loud sounds. These evaluations are quick, painless and provide valuable insight into your hearing health. Robert is a Certified Hearing Specialist and also a hearing instrument wearer who’s been in your shoes. Call us today!Is your hearing Christmas ready? It’s the most wonderful time of the year to hear.
Tellico Hearing Solutions, PLLC 865-635-1887 contact@TellicoHearingSolutions.com
Custom Pull-Out Shelves for More Space, More Access, and More Joy!
Custom Solutions:
ShelfGenie custom pull-out shelves are the best way to eliminate common frustrations in the kitchen, pantry, and bath. Our design will help fully utilize your space, and our shelves pull out the full depth of your cabinets so you can see, reach, and retrieve items with ease. Custom design, sturdy wood construction, quiet rails that hold up to 100 pounds per shelf, and professional installation – all backed by a lifetime guarantee – will ensure your satisfaction. Your Experience: Getting personalized attention from the ShelfGenie
team is easy. Here’s what you can expect from our custom design process.
» Free Design Consultation: Work with a ShelfGenie designer to create a custom solution to solve your home pain points, eyesores, and trouble areas.
» Custom Solution: Your personal designer will present a design plan built just for you and your needs and show you a 3D-rendered plan of what your future home will look like.
» Professional Installation: We handle it all. After measurements are taken and your products are
hand-crafted, your installer comes to your home and installs everything for you in one day.
Schedule Your Free Design Consultation Today! One of our talented ShelfGenie designers will come to your home and create a design plan customized just for you –no obligation required. Call us at 865.270.5465 or Sign Up at ShelfGenie.com. ShelfGenie® 865-270-5465 www.shelfgenie.com
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Village Homes is proud to announce that only 7 new home sites are still available in Phase I and II of Coyatee Hills Reserve. Located in the North end of Tellico Village, only minutes from Lenoir City and West Knoxville. These lots are available as house/lot packages. Coyatee Reserve is a very private, wooded area with a nature trail surrounded by acres of common property. Call Village Homes at 865-458-6813 for availability, pricing, and home plans.
ARE YOU READY FOR ADVENT?
By PaStor PHiL viCkerS
There might be no other time during the year when the Church calendar so conflicts with the calendar of the world. In a sense, in this season the world is coming into agreement with the Church. What we are about to celebrate in the Church, the birth of Jesus, is overflowing and changing the way the world looks. Houses are decorated, Christmas trees are going up, and the stores are busy all in preparation for the big day. However, there is also a profound disagreement going on at the same time. Just when the world is getting itself into a big, busy hurry, the Church calendar gives us the season of Advent. Advent is celebrated on the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. The primary symbol of this season in the space of the Church is the Advent wreath. Each week, another candle is lit until finally the white candle at the center is lit on Christmas Eve. The Advent wreath is a reminder to honor the time of waiting and to make ourselves ready for what God is about to do. It is a symbol of holy patience, silence, and dependence upon God and God’s timing. We might think to ourselves that this is the most difficult time of the year to be spiritual and to be patient. I’ve got enough to do this season without bringing God into it! However, that is exactly the point of Advent. It asks us to slow down and ask ourselves what it really means to be ready to welcome Christ. There is a readiness toward which God calls us, and it doesn’t have to do with having all our lights up or all our presents purchased. It is a readiness of the heart and of the soul. It is a readiness that is about
Come join us to celebrate the JOY of Christmas
at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church
Parish Penance Service
December 10 at 7:00 pm
Christmas Eve
5:00 pm Christmas Vigil
11:30 pm Carols
12:00 am Midnight Mass
Christmas Day
9:00 am English
11:30 am Spanish
St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church
649 Old Tellico Highway North, Madisonville, TN 37543 423-442-7273 • sjtwrcc.org
The Meaning of Advent
The word “advent” seems to pop up this time of year, yet many of us don’t quite know what its meaning or importance is. We’ve heard the term before, usually in a religious context, but we’re still not certain what Advent is exactly. Dictionaries define the advent as “an arrival or beginning.” For Christians, Advent is the four-week period before Christmas, a day designated long ago to observe the earthly birth of Jesus Christ. Advent season has been observed by many different groups, not all Christian, since time immemorial. It is a 28-day period set aside for believers to not only reflect on the Messiah’s long-ago arrival as an infant but also focus on the significant impact of Jesus’s life, His subsequent death, resurrection, and imminent return.
Although Advent is mainly observed in Christian communities worldwide, it is celebrated and observed in a variety of ways. Secular or non-Christians use Advent as a “countdown to Santa” and have a calendar to do just that. Children the world over await Christmas each year with great anticipation, an anticipation that surges with each passing day of the Advent calendar. Puzzle pieces are provided by parents for calendars in hopes their kids mark the passing of time until “The Big Day” arrives when they can finally receive & open their long-awaited presents. Which, brings us to the Big Question we should all pause to consider: “Why are we awaiting December 25 this year?”
As this year’s Advent begins, perhaps we should examine the importance of this season. Is it all just an annual ritual of red-and-green decorations that get brought out after Thanksgiving, set up, and then repacked & returned to our storage areas sometime after “The Big Day”? Or is it a time to remember the very reason for the season – Jesus’s earthly birth? If we perhaps try imagining how the various participants in the original Advent spent their 28-day season, we can see a clearer picture of Advent. Think, if you will, of the wise men who journeyed from a faraway land and followed the Star of Bethlehem; or the curious local shepherd boys; or King Herod who decreed the death of all Jewish male infants; or Jesus’s earthly father Joseph; or Mary, the young, expectant mother carrying the infant Jesus. Meditating on the way they spent their time anticipating and preparing for Christ’s arrival can be a purposeful exercise leading to our own sense of why we are awaiting the anniversary of Jesus’s birth. Such a meditation could produce truly meaningful, intangible “presents” – the type that never needs wrapping, unwrapping, or exchanging. Throughout December, Pastor Dave Talley will be presenting four messages on Advent, each focusing on a different person or character involved in the original
having a space for Jesus within our hearts that is uncluttered with the minutia which sometimes so easily crowds out the things of the faith.
Here at Shepherd of the Lake we will be celebrating Advent on the 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd of December at 9:00 am. We invite you to come and slow down with us as we watch the slow march of the candles make their way to the center and gather around God’s Word with patience and hope. Also, on the three Wednesdays of Advent: the 4th, the 11th, and the 18th we are going to be having a special midweek service at 5:00pm where we will hear a message, sing, and then join in a soup supper together in our fellowship hall. I hope and pray that God will help me to slow down and appreciate these days so that when I say I’m ready for Christmas I will mean it, and I hope and pray that for you as well. God’s blessings to you in these holy days.
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church 143 Chota Center Loudon, TN 37774
865-816-4756
shepherdofthelaketn.org
O Holy Night: 1st Sunday of Advent
December 1 9am & 10:30am
O Holy Night: 2nd Sunday of Advent
December 8 9am & 10:30am
O Holy Night: 3rd Sunday of Advent
December 15 9am & 10:30am
Community Church Christmas Concert
December 15
December 16 4pm & 7pm
Contact the church office for ticket availability.
December 19 6pm Service of Hope and Remembrance
O Holy Night: 4th Sunday of Advent
December 22 10:30am
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 4:30pm & 7pm
December 24 3pm
December 29 Combined Worship Service 10:30am
Christmas. We warmly and openly invite you and yours to visit us during the Christmas season and join us in celebration of
By Bo Carey
here were you the day John F. Kennedy was assassinated? And what were you doing? If you’re a Baby Boomer, chances are you were in a classroom hearing it from your principal over the loudspeaker.... or from a teacher or fellow student. We don’t forget such tragic, epic moments due to the way they affected our emotions and our nation’s history. For my millennial children, the big moment was the 911 bombing of the twin towers and the Pentagon. If you were a young person living in Israel on October 6th of last year, the massive attack on innocent women and children will mark your psyche for the rest of your lives.
All of these brutal acts of aggression shaped the way we respond to evil, yet they all pale in comparison to what happened 83 years ago this week off a remote Pacific island. December 7, 1941 was much more devastating than any of the prior incidents, and it not only impacted the engagement and outcome of World War II but also the fate of multiple American generations... starting with the “Greatest Generation,” which was responsible for the ultimate victory. When we commemorate Pearl Harbor Day each year, we remember what it took for a nation to give all it had to save Europe and confirm the U.S. as the absolute leader in world affairs going forward.
Few if any of us are old enough to remember that awful day, but we should ask those few survivors to share with us their memories. At 95 years old, my father complains his memory is not so good anymore; however, when I asked him what he was doing December 7, 1941, his recall was superb. He remembered names of the boys riding bicycles with him near Highland Avenue in Memphis, then going over to a girl’s house at 3636 Central Avenue. He remembers the big band record she was playing at the moment her father entered the room to announce the air strike he’d just heard about on the radio. It wasn’t long before Daddy’s older brother dropped out of the University of Tennessee to enlist in the service, with his parents constantly worrying what would happen next for family and friends. Not a year goes by that he doesn’t mention his cousin going MIA and dying at Anzio.
We don’t adequately understand the sacrifices that Greatest Generation endured to allow us luxuries and privileges here in the finest nation on earth. It’s always a sad day of reflection during the first week of December, and I think of it as putting regretful images behind us in order to begin celebrating the awesome mystery of Christmas. Yet these memories are necessary to build resolve in the next generation so they can deal with whatever foreign aggressor decides to attack next. Pray it doesn’t happen, but we know from our history that such surprises never end.
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.
Tax-Savvy Strategies to Grow Your Retirement Wealth (and Keep More of It!)
By yvonne MarSH, CfP®, CPa
Retirement is always a fantastic financial milestone. Now, the goal is to grow that nest egg while keeping Uncle Sam from taking too big a slice. With some strategic moves, you can enjoy more of your wealth, protect it from unnecessary risk, and make a difference for your loved ones. Here’s how you can keep building wealth in retirement—tax efficiently and stress-free.
1. Optimize Your IRA Withdrawals
IRA withdrawals are a big part of retirement income, but they’re also taxable, which can bump you up a tax bracket when required minimum distributions (RMDs) kick in at age 73. Here’s how to stay ahead:
» Roth Conversions: Converting part of your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA means paying taxes on the conversion now, but withdrawals down the line are tax-free. Spread conversions over a few years to manage your tax bill and maximize the tax-free growth.
» Withdrawal Strategy: Start with taxable accounts, allowing your IRAs to keep compounding. This approach also reduces taxable income from IRA withdrawals, keeping more money growing for you.
2. Give and Receive with Qualified Charitable
Distributions (QCDs)
If you’re charitably inclined, QCDs are a win-win! You can direct funds from your IRA to a charity, which counts toward your RMD but doesn’t count as taxable income. Not only does this keep your tax rate down, but it can also lower taxes on Social Security and Medicare premiums, helping you stay on track financially.
3. Go for Tax-Friendly Investments Outside of your IRA
When you want growth balanced against risk, consider these options as your friend:
Municipal Bonds: Muni bonds are tax-free at the federal level and sometimes at the state level, providing steady income with little risk.
Dividend Paying Stocks: Mutual funds and ETF’s that hold dividend-paying stocks can provide a buffer during market headwinds and they have tax advantages too, since qualified dividends are taxed at lower rates than regular income. ETFs are especially tax-smart since they tend to trigger fewer capital gains taxes.
4. Manage Capital Gains Like a Pro
If you’re drawing from taxable accounts, capital gains can add up quickly. Keep more of what you’ve earned by
using tax-loss harvesting, which involves selling underperforming assets to offset gains elsewhere. This lets you manage taxes while rebalancing your portfolio to stay aligned with your goals.
Take Action for a Smoother, Smarter Retirement
Enjoying your wealth in retirement while staying tax-smart doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few well-timed strategies, you can protect your assets, enjoy your retirement, and still leave a lasting legacy. Looking to put these ideas into action? Let’s talk! I’d love to help you make the most of your hard-earned savings with a plan tailored to your goals. Reach out today to get started on securing your tax-efficient retirement. Call or email me at ymarsh@marshwealth.com to learn more.
Marsh Wealth Management, LLC Fiduciary Registered Investment Advisor 504 Ebenezer Road Knoxville, TN 37923 865-622-2162 www.marshwealth.com
The information contained herein is general in nature and offered only for educational purposes. No investment decisions should be based upon this content. This information is not a substitute for engaging MWM for a personal consultation whereby all of your financial circumstances, risk tolerance and investment objectives can be considered.
Heritage Family Dentistry
Dedicated – Compassionate – Caring
Somewhat apprehensive about undergoing a dental implant procedure, Lynette Desper relied entirely upon her previously positive experiences at Heritage Family Dentistry.
“I have never been apprehensive about visiting the dentist,” said Lynette. “I wore full metal braces for four years when I was in junior high, so I have never had any problems visiting the dentist.”
However, this was an entirely new procedure for her.
“Dr. Bradshaw has provided excellent dental care for me,” said Lynette. “I’ve had crown work done, regular fillings and cleanings, and the most important was my dental implants. I was apprehensive about THAT procedure, but Dr. Bradshaw and his staff worked with me, going above and beyond to make sure that I had a positive experience. It took some time to talk me into the procedure, and the staff was very patient and comforting in easing my fears.
“I have always had a positive experience with the staff and Dr. Bradshaw. They are always so caring and helpful, and they go out of their way to make you feel comfortable in their office. You feel a sense of ‘family’ in their office, and you can tell that they truly care about not only each other, but their patients as well.
“I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Bradshaw and the staff at Heritage Family Dentistry. I would HIGHLY recommend Dr. Bradshaw and Heritage Family Dentistry to anyone! They have been one of my most favorite healthcare professionals I have ever dealt with. They genuinely care about their patients, and it shows!”
If you are in search of a team of dedicated, compassionate, and caring dental professionals for yourself or
your entire family, why not trust the Heritage Family Dentistry team just like Lynette has? For more information on Heritage Family Dentistry’s complete menu of services, call, visit them online, or make an appointment for a personal tour.
www.hfdsmiles.com
Students Learning How the Government Works
The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary sponsor yearly programs called the Boys and Girls State respectively, a program started in 1935 to counter the Fascist inspired Young Pioneer Camps.
With slight variations, the program exists in 49 states (Hawaii being the exception).
In Tennessee the programs consist of sending select high school juniors to a six-day camp where participants assume the roles of adults with all the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen. The training is objective and practical with city, county and state governments operated by the students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs.
This year the American Legion Tellico Lake Post 256 again sponsored two boys, one each from Sequoyah and Greenback High Schools. The selection process starts with the interested students filling out application forms which are then evaluated by both school officials and Legion Post members. The top candidates are then interviewed, and a candidate and one or more alternates are selected from each school.
In past years the Post also selected and sponsored participants to the Girls State program, but with the formation of the newly chartered American Legion Auxiliary Unit 256 the selection and sponsorship has been transferred to the Unit. The candidate selection
process for Girls State is identical to the Boys State program, with Auxiliary Unit members coordinating with school officials to determine the most appropriate candidates.
This year the Tennessee American Legion Boys State ran Sunday, May 19th through Friday May 24th on the campus of Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville, and the Girls State was Sunday, May 26th through Saturday, June 1st at Lipscomb University in Nashville.
At the November general meeting of the American Legion Post 256, the students hosted by the Post and the Auxiliary for this year’s programs took the opportunity to thank the Post for the experience and to express just how enjoyable and educational the experience was. While each had attended high school classes covering the general structure of government, the opportunity to assume a roll and participate was an “eye opening” experience. More information about American Legion Tellico Lake Post 256 or the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 256, including dates and times for general meetings open to all can be found at https://www. tellicolakepost256.org.
Left to Right: Linda Ullom – American Legion Post 256 3rd Vice Commander, Tyler WoodyGreenback HS, Dallas Tallent - Sequoyah HS, Hannah Thomas - Sequoyah HS, Sarah ThomasSequoyah HS Health Science Teacher, Tiffany Moffett - Greenback HS Guidance Counselor
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Where Style Meets Substance
“Superior” Tips for Taking Care of your Expensive Rug
The holidays are here and, with family and friends over for meals and fun, the spills or unexpected “items” on your one-of-a-kind Oriental rug are bound to happen. For serious stains or dirt, a professional Oriental rug cleaning company like Superior Rug Cleaning is 100 percent necessary but, what if you want to maintain your expensive rug or clean up accidents? We asked the expert, Kerry McDuffie, at Superior Rug Cleaning to give us some tips for keeping your expensive Oriental rug clean.
Kerry’s Expert Rug Maintenance and Cleaning Tips:
» Vacuum your rug regularly and, if possible, flip the rug over and vacuum the back of it, too. The vibration will sift loose soil to the front of rug. Turn the rug over again and then vacuum off the top one more time.
» Rotate the position of the rug every few months, if possible, so that the higher traffic part is in a different place.
» Remove spots as soon as they occur. The longer something that can stain the rug remains in the fibers, the more difficult it can be to remove them later.
» Blot up spills using just water first. I don’t recommend using Resolve or OxiClean on rug stains as these products are designed for laundry, and it can take copious amounts of water to flush them out of the rug once they are there.
» Feel free to call me at 865-691-5686 for further advice.
If your Oriental rug needs an expert touch, be sure to call Kerry at Superior Rug Cleaning. Superior Rugs believes that properly caring for your Oriental rug requires more than just a carpet cleaning machine. That’s why we have a 12-step cleaning process, where we first determine the exact fiber content and dyes used, then take the rug to our specialized facility, wash it in pure, deionized cold water in a wool-safe solution. Once the rug is washed, we give it a thorough rinse and hang it to dry in our temperature-controlled drying room.
Whether it’s in your home or place of business, our cleaning process is sure to put that extra magic back into your handmade Oriental rug. We’ve had hundreds of satisfied customers walk through our doors over the years, and we’re excited to add you to the list.
Be sure to call today or visit our website for more information or to receive a cleaning estimate for your Oriental rug!
Superior Rug Cleaning
865.691.5686
www.superiorofknoxville.com
by Lisa GruGin
It’s November 11, and I am in a t-shirt. Fine for me, but our plants are confused! New growth is appearing on plants that should be going dormant, and that isn’t good. All that new growth is going to get killed when it does finally get cold. Give us a call if you have concerns.
Now let’s talk about seasonal plants: Christmas Cactus
The Christmas cactus and its cousins are very popular because they are low maintenance, but there are a few tricks to growing them:
In the Garden November Holiday NEEDS
» They are tropical cactus, not desert cactus. They don’t like hot afternoon sun and do not like to get bone dry. They do like lots of light so won’t bloom well if kept in too dark a spot.
» Blooms are triggered by cool temperatures and longer periods of darkness. Keep them away from heat sources and give them 13 hours of darkness per day.
» Don’t overwater. Every couple of weeks is fine for most homes.
Once the blooms have finished, let them rest for a bit by withholding water. When you see new growth, resume regular watering. If it has been in the same pot for more than 3-4 years or is very crowded, you will need to up-pot. Don’t worry if you accidentally break some pieces off. They are easy to propagate, so you can give them to a friend. Call if you need instructions or bring it in for us to transplant.
Cut Christmas Trees and Greenery
Trees need to get into water within 20 minutes of being cut. We will do a fresh cut here if you don’t have a chainsaw at home. Use a tree stand that holds at least a gallon of water and keep it full. Once a tree dries out, the cut seals and it will no longer “drink.”
As for wreaths and garland, they do best with a anti-transpirant spray to help retain moisture or are misted with water regularly. They are happiest if they get some shade from the hot afternoon sun.
Poinsettia
Poinsettias have a reputation for being hard to care for, but that is because they are a tropical plant being used as a winter decoration. Box and grocery stores typically don’t have the experience to care for them. Here are some hints:
» Don’t purchase a plant that is already in a plastic sleeve. This camouflages damage and creates a fungal breeding ground. The plant sleeve should be for transportation only to be removed when you get home by cutting it off or pulling it from the bottom.
» Don’t expose the poinsettia to cold temperatures as they are tropical plants. Anything below 50º will damage it. Freezing temperatures will kill it in less than a minute.
» The branches are very fragile because of the blooms. Poinsettias should be put where they will not be bumped or brushed against.
» They are mildly toxic. Some people (and animals) may have a reaction to the sap, so keep plants away from pets, children, teenage males, and drunk party guests.
» Water when the soil feels dry. I find it easiest to take mine out of the wrap and put it in the sink to water it. After it drains, I put it back in the wrap. Don’t let them sit in water because they are prone to root rot.
Amaryllis, Cyclamen, and other plants marketed at Christmas have specific growing needs. Some of them will live year-round, some prefer to go outside, and some will go dormant after they flower. I don’t have space to talk about all of them, so please stop in
High Quality Carpet, Flooring, & Cabinetry for the Lowest Prices
Want to transform your home’s outdated kitchen, but worried about breaking the bank in the process? Worry no longer. At Country Carpet & Flooring, our everyday prices are reasonable, affordable, and far lower than even the sale prices you ll find at our competition. We sell high quality solid wood cabinetry direct from the factory. That means no middlemen, no distributors, no dealers, no boutique-style showrooms, and no exorbitant prices to make you wince. What we do have is the highest quality cabinetry, all solid wood, with your choice of door profiles, soft-close doors and drawers, dovetail drawers, colors, and hardware. And more. We ve even got specialty cabinets like waste receptacles, spice racks, and so on. Come on by, and we ll create a showcase kitchen for you, one that will be the envy of your friends and family. At Country Carpet & Flooring, we’ve earned our reputation as the area’s premier resource for all your residential and commercial flooring needs. Over 4 decades, we’ ve proven we re the best. But more than that, we ve have also earned a reputation for designing and installing fine kitchen cabinetry for far less than you might expect to spend in Knoxville’s kitchen designer showrooms.
So if you’ve been dreaming of a new custom kitchen and bath, but thought you couldn’t afford it, think again. Let the professionals at Country Carpet & Flooring show you how to transform your ordinary kitchen and bath into an extraordinary one. And while you re here, why not complete your new project with new flooring as well? An extensive selection of name brand tile, hardwood, carpeting and vinyl plank flooring awaits you at Country Carpet & Flooring. A stunning new kitchen and bath couldn’t be easier.
Country Carpet & Flooring 3107 Highway 411 Madisonville, TN 37354
(Across from Sequoyah H.S.)
423.442.8860
countrycarpet@bellsouth.net www.country-carpet-and-flooring.com
or give us a call if you have questions.
Let me add a little bit about yard care, since the mildness so far is causing such confusion:
» You can still plant trees and shrubs. 80% of root growth occurs during the fall and winter, so anything planted now has a head start. You can also still plant perennials and pansies. My begonias are still beautiful, so I haven’t even planted my pansies yet!
» If you haven’t mulched lately, add enough to give you about 3 inches. This keeps the soil temperature and moisture levels more stable. Natural materials are best.
» Keep weeding! It is amazing how quickly weeds can take over.
» Don’t forget to do a weekly (or at least every couple of weeks) walk around so you can see what is happening. This is a good time to make plans for next year. We will close for the holidays at 2 pm on December 23rd and reopen on January 2nd, when our hours will be Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Let us know if we can help you with your plans for spring.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you!
Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center 9885 Highway 11E, Lenoir City, TN
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The Importance of Keeping Your Custom Garage Floor Clean
Most of us consider our homes as a sanctuary, a place where we can relax, unwind, and enjoy the finer things in life. We invest time and effort into making our interiors stylish and functional, and rightfully so. However, one often neglected but integral part of our homes is the garage. Today, many garages have evolved into an extension of our living space, and they deserve just as much attention. One way to elevate your garage’s functionality and aesthetics is through a custom garage floor.
A custom garage floor can add beauty and utility to your garage, turning it into a finished space that is not only visually appealing but also more user-friendly. Whether you use your garage for parking your vehicles, storage, sports equipment maintenance, a laundry center, a workbench, a home gym, or a hobby area, a well-designed garage floor can make a world of difference.
PremierGarage, a leader in garage flooring solutions, offers a wide range of color and finish options to transform your garage’s look and feel. Say goodbye to unsightly oil stains, peeling epoxy-coated floors, and hello to a showroom-quality garage floor. One of the standout features of PremierGarage’s commercial-grade hybrid
polymer system, developed by Sika, a renowned name in Resinous Flooring Systems worldwide, is the superior finish it delivers. Here’s why it’s essential to keep your custom garage floor clean and well-maintained:
» Durability: PremierGarage’s hybrid polymer system cures two times harder than traditional materials. This toughness means it can withstand the rigors of daily garage life, from hot tires leaving no unsightly marks to abrasions that won’t lead to peeling or blistering. A clean and well-maintained garage floor will continue to look stunning for years to come.
» Quick Installation: You won’t have to wait for weeks to enjoy your new garage floor. PremierGarage’s professional installation team can transform your space in just two days, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine.
» Professional Guarantee: When you invest in a custom garage floor from PremierGarage, you benefit from a professional guarantee. You can have peace of mind knowing that your garage floor is installed correctly and built to last.
» Easy Maintenance: Keeping your custom garage
floor clean is a breeze. The hybrid polymer system is designed to be easy to clean, saving you time and effort in maintaining your garage’s pristine appearance.
» Enhanced Safety: PremierGarage’s custom garage floor is UV, chemical, stain, and slip-resistant. This added safety feature ensures that you and your loved ones can move about the garage without worrying about potential hazards.
Your garage deserves as much attention as the rest of your home. A custom garage floor not only adds style and functionality but also protects your investment. With PremierGarage’s hybrid polymer system, you can enjoy a stunning, durable, and low-maintenance garage floor that enhances the overall appeal of your home. Don’t let your garage fall by the wayside – invest in a clean, stylish, and functional space that complements your lifestyle!
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
PremierGarage (865) 947-8686 PremierGarage.com
This Christmas, consider gifting a custom closet from The Tailored Closet, where precision meets elegance, and functionality harmonizes with style Give us a call, visit our website, or scan the QR code above and play Santa this Christmas season! Embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season – a well-organized, stylish closet awaits, courtesy of The Tailored Closet
The holiday season is a time of warmth, love, and giving. As the Christmas bells chime and the festive spirit fills the air, consider offering a unique and practical gift this year: the gift of organization. A clutter-free, well-organized space can transform one’s daily life, bringing a sense of calm and order amid the chaos. This Christmas, consider gifting a custom-made closet from The Tailored Closet, where precision meets elegance, and functionality harmonizes with style.
At The Tailored Closet, each closet is meticulously crafted, using only the highest quality materials. What sets these closets apart is their ability to provide up to 40% more storage space than traditional wire systems, ensuring that every inch of your closet is maximized efficiently. These custom-designed closet systems not only optimize space but also add a touch of sophistication to your living environment.
Work with the Best in the Business
Choosing The Tailored Closet means investing in expertise. Their team of experts initiates your journey to your dream closet with an in-home consultation. An experienced space-planning expert attentively listens to your desires and requirements, discussing tailored solutions that respect your needs, style preferences, and budget
constraints. What sets The Tailored Closet apart is their innovative approach, using proprietary 3D CAD design software to bring your dream closet to life before your eyes, ensuring a perfect alignment with your vision.
Personalize Your Space
Customizing your closet to your needs and lifestyle is The Tailored Closet’s mission. Their specialists meticulously assess your habits and requirements, providing tailored closet design and accessories. They craft creative closet organizers for your shoes, seasonal clothing, and accessories, ensuring efficient and accessible organization. With various choices including shelves, cabinets, racks, valet rods, bins, and more, you can create a personalized organization system that perfectly suits your unique needs.
Creative design options are endless, with options such as jewelry organizers, safes, integrated ironing boards, and discreetly placed televisions. Your closet goes beyond practicality, reflecting your personality and style. The Tailored Closet offers various decorative options and finishes to ensure your closet seamlessly complements your existing décor.
Decorative Finishes and Design:
The Tailored Closet values the marriage of organization
and aesthetics. Their custom closets offer a wide range of colors and finishes to suit various tastes and styles, including rich wood grains, traditional laminates, and luxurious Italia. Enhance your custom closet with stylish door or drawer styles and decorative molding for added elegance. Select from finishes like classic white, chocolate apple, or antique white to match your existing cabinetry. For an extra touch of flair, choose stylish hardware finishes for wardrobe poles, drawer handles, and accessories to create a polished and cohesive look.
This Christmas, make a lasting difference in the lives of your loved ones by giving them the gift of organization. Tailored Closet’s custom solutions not only declutter spaces but also enhance lifestyles, making daily routines more manageable and enjoyable. Gift certificates from The Tailored Closet are available, allowing your friends and family the freedom to design their dream closets according to their preferences. Embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season – a well-organized, stylish closet awaits, courtesy of The Tailored Closet.
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION The Tailored Closet (865) 777-0306
TailoredClosetKnoxville.com
DECOR, FLORAL, AVON,
East Tennessee Area Beauty: Fogbows
Photographing the beauty of Tennessee, and the wildlife who call it home.
by KaLLey CooK
There’s a beautiful phenomenon that some people might not even know exists. We all know about rainbows, but there’s also something called a fogbow. Fogbows form when sunlight meets moisture, refracting light from the tiny water droplets suspended in the air. The water droplets in fogbows are too small to reflect any light and create colors, so the light scatters and colors “smear out,” while rainbows form when light reflects through larger water droplets, refracts and disperses and the droplets act like a prism. I’ve only seen fogbows a little more than a handful of times and most, but not all, have happened in Cades Cove. The best fog to see these amazing white rainbows is in thin fog when the sun is bright and low - so either right at dusk or at dawn. I only have two images for this article because these are my best so far! I also want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!
Contact: Kalleybcook@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/
If you’re looking to purchase a piece from Kalley Cook Photography such as a canvas, prints, magnets, calendars or coffee mugs for a gift for yourself or others, please reach out to me as soon as possible through my email. Thank you! kalleycookphotography@ gmail.com Example of a canvas of one of my most
tradition of excellence and personalized service that has been our hallmark . Our goal is to keep inspiring you with innovative ideas and tailored solutions that enhance your livi ng spaces that will enrich your life. Whether you'r e planning a complete renovation or simply seeking th e perfect accent piece, we're here to guide you eve ry step of the way.
In the spirit of the season, we encourage you to ta ke a moment to reflect on the joys and successes of the past year. Celebrate the warmth of family and frien ds, and embrace the possibilities that the new year brings. Best wishes for the holiday season, and a h appy new year!
The Loudon County Concert Band Presents Celebrate Christmas
on Thursday, December 12, 2024
The Loudon County Concert Band is pleased to announce their upcoming Christmas concert for Thursday, December 12, 2024. The theme of the concert is Celebrate Christmas. The concert will be held at The Venue at Lenoir City, 7690 Creekwood Park Blvd, Lenoir City, TN 37772.
Featuring outstanding arrangements of perineal Christmas classics, the concert includes Greensleeves, Silent Night, Go Tell It on the Mountain, Do You Hear What I Hear, Deck the Halls, and Sleigh Ride. The concert will also feature the outstanding medley, A Christmas Festival, by Leroy Anderson, as well as a medley of Christmas songs from Broadway, and a medley of tunes from the classic Christmas film, The Polar Express. The Concert Band is also pleased to welcome The Tellico Voices, under the direction of Dennis Loy, as their special musical guests for this concert. Tickets for Celebrate Christmas with the Loudon County Concert Band are $10.00 in advance or $15.00 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting the band’s website at www.loudonconcertband.org, and clicking on the “Events” tab.
The Loudon County Concert Band is a volunteer community group of nearly 50 musicians from Loudon County and the surrounding area. Under the musical direction of David Whipple, Jr., the band plays a variety of concert band literature including seasonal music, thematic pieces, songs from film and Broadway, patriotic marches, arrangements of music from composers like Leroy Anderson, George Gershwin and Aaron Copeland, as well as original works composed for concert band.
The band is always looking for new members and welcomes anyone high school aged and up. We rehearse on Thursday evenings at 6:30 in the music suite of the Community Church at Tellico Village. If you would like to join us, all you need to do is contact either our music director, David Whipple, Jr. at (865) 335-1543, or our manager, Kevin Meyer at (586) 929-2333, and let us know you are joining us so we can make sure we have music ready for you.
The Loudon County Concert Band relies solely on the financial donations of individuals and businesses to operate. The band is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and all contributions are tax exempt. If you are interested in supporting the work of the band as either an individual or corporate sponsor, please contact our manager, Kevin Meyer at (586) 929-2333. You may also email us at loudonconcertband@gmail.com.
The Loudon Concert Band is a proud
A fogbow over a field in Cades cove with goldenrods in the field. It’s always amazing standing there in the morning and watching a fogbow form. Just a great sense of peace about it. Some say it can almost feel eerie to them.
loved pieces.
