Award-Winning CASA Monroe Rodeo
The countdown is on for one of East Tennessee’s most anticipated events as the 4th Annual CASA Monroe Rodeo returns to Legacy Horse Ranch at Rarity Bay in Vonore on Friday and Saturday, September 11 & 12. More than just an evening of world-class rodeo entertainment, the award-winning event serves as CASA Monroe’s largest fundraiser of the year, helping provide trained volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children throughout Monroe County.
Presented by Tate’s Building Supply and Powered by Stowers, the Official Machine Sponsor, this year’s rodeo promises two unforgettable nights featuring world champion cowboys and cowgirls competing in seven action-packed rodeo events. Contestants will be competing for the highest prize money payout of any rodeo in the Southeast, making the CASA Monroe Rodeo a premier stop on the professional rodeo circuit and attracting top talent from across the country.
In just four years, the CASA Monroe Rodeo has earned an impressive reputation throughout the rodeo industry. The event was recognized as a Top 5 New Rodeo of the Year by the International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) in 2024, followed by Top 5 Outdoor Rodeo of the Year honors in 2025. These national recognitions have firmly established the CASA Monroe Rodeo as one of the Southeast’s premier rodeo events and a destination for both contestants and spectators alike. While the rodeo delivers two nights of championship entertainment, its mission extends far beyond the arena.
CASA (Court Appointed Special
Advocates) Monroe recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are involved in the juvenile court system. These specially trained volunteers become a consistent voice for children during one of the most difficult periods of their lives, ensuring their best interests remain the focus as judges make critical decisions about their futures.
Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and volunteer hour donated directly supports CASA Monroe’s mission of ensuring every child has the opportunity for a safe, permanent, and nurturing home. The rodeo has become much more than a community event—it is an investment in the lives of Monroe County’s most vulnerable children.
This year’s rodeo offers something for everyone long before the first gate opens.
Guests can enjoy a variety of local food trucks, browse merchandise from vendors, let the kids explore the Free Kids Zone, or test their skills on the ever-popular mechanical bull. Families will also have the opportunity to meet Miss Rodeo USA 2026, Ashley Polson, who will be attending throughout the weekend, greeting fans, signing autographs, and helping celebrate one of East Tennessee’s premier events.
Friday night is also Kid’s Night, with children 12 and under receiving free General Admission, making it the perfect opportunity for families to experience professional rodeo together.
As the community gathers on September 11, the evening will begin with a heartfelt tribute marking the 25th Anniversary of one of the most significant days in American history. Before the rodeo action
begins, guests are invited to participate in a special patriotic ceremony featuring the Presentation of Colors, the singing of the
National Anthem, and a moving aviation performance overhead.
ervice. I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately. Has service stopped being a priority in our society? There used to be service stations; those went the way of the dodo bird. You call a help line and get someone in another country whom you can’t understand – only after trying to navigate the menus with an automated operator.
I do think there are some who still care about good service. Our family has been blessed by exceptional service here in East Tennessee on many occasions, but one person stood out.
We were served by an excellent young woman at a family restaurant in Lenoir City; she was fast, efficient, cheerful, and anticipated our needs all while the restaurant was extremely busy. When we thanked her for her great service and attitude, she had the best reply. She said, “Thank you! I’m so glad you were happy. You know, God put us on this earth to bless others, so that’s what I try to do when I take care of our guests.” Needless to say, we were impressed!
The next time she served us, we received the same awesome service, but she also gave us a handmade card. The card said “Thank you so much. Have a wonderful week! God Bless!” She signed it and included a scripture verse: “Each of you should use whatever gifts you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10. That’s exactly what she did, she blessed us.
She got me to thinking about “service” and “serving others.” I know a couple who use their gifts of hospitality to bless others by reaching out to people who are lonely and providing them with a support system and a “family” that has lasted decades for some. I’d never thought about this as a ministry before; just something nice. But for many in this group, they’ve been a huge blessing supplying love and support during very rough times; our friends definitely put 1 Peter 4:10 into action.
We all have gifts we can use to bless our neighbors and make the world a better place. I’m so grateful to know that those small businesses owners who share their stories within these pages feel the same and strive to serve and bless their communities through their gifts. I believe this is what fuels the Tennessee Volunteer Spirit!
August has some great activities that you and your family can enjoy while the weather is still pleasant. Boating, hiking, and “all things outdoor” are abundantly available. Combine the awesome outdoor activities with the beauty of our area, then add to that the amazing people who live and work here – East Tennessee can’t be beat. And while you’re enjoying that beauty and fun, smile at someone, give a kind word, bless and serve those around you – and show them you really care; you’ll make their world a better place.
CASA RODEO
call, and celebrate the resilience, unity, and unwavering spirit of the American people. Organizers hope this meaningful tribute will serve as a powerful reminder that while rodeo celebrates the American West, it also celebrates the values that unite our nation.
For guests looking to elevate their rodeo experience, the Ace Management Partners VIP Lounge returns once again, offering an exclusive evening unlike anything else in East Tennessee.
Guests in the VIP Lounge will enjoy a delicious catered dinner, complimentary adult beverages, live entertainment from Chad Bradford and the Dixie Mafia, premium reserved arena seating, designated VIP parking, and an exclusive meet-and-greet with Miss Rodeo USA Ashley Polson. VIP guests will also have the unique opportunity to mingle with many of the world champion cowboys and cowgirls competing throughout the weekend.
Even if guests step away from the arena, they won’t miss a moment of the action. Every ride, run, and championship performance will be streamed live inside the lounge on a giant jumbo screen, allowing everyone
to enjoy the excitement while relaxing in a comfortable hospitality setting. Whether entertaining clients, celebrating with friends, or simply looking for a first-class rodeo experience, the Ace Management Partners VIP Lounge offers an unforgettable way to experience the weekend.
The success of the CASA Monroe Rodeo is made possible through the incredible support of sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who believe in CASA Monroe’s mission. Their generosity allows the organization to
continue serving children while also providing Monroe County with one of the highest-quality sporting events in the region.
CASA Monroe is still seeking volunteers to help make this year’s event another success. Individuals who volunteer for one evening of the rodeo will receive a special thank-you incentive. Volunteers may choose two complimentary General Admission tickets or $50 off one VIP ticket for the opposite night, allowing them to enjoy the rodeo when they are not volunteering.
Whether attending, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply sharing the event with family and friends, every person who becomes part of the CASA Monroe Rodeo is helping write a brighter future for children in our community.
General Admission and VIP tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.CasaMonroeRodeo.com. And the excitement doesn’t stop there. Organizers say even more announcements are on the way, with additional entertainment, special features, and surprises set to be revealed in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned—there’s still more excitement to come as East Tennessee prepares for two unforgettable nights of championship rodeo action, patriotic celebration, family fun, and a mission that changes children’s lives.
Kathy Rose East Tennessee’s Mountain Views
Dream Rooms - Kitchen Makeover
This 1960s home had a kitchen remodel in the early 2000s but it now felt cramped and outdated for this client. This is the home that everyone gathers at f or holidays and milestones, and as such, the homeow ner needed a kitchen that would be able to seat 20-30 w ith space to spread out. For this kitchen remodel, we expanded the kitchen i nto the old dining room by taking down the wall bet ween the original kitchen and the original dining room, as well as removing a hall closet. The now 24' x 24' kitchen features ivory cabinets in a simple shaker style with black handles touched with copper accents. The new wood flooring was sele cted to match the existing hardwood flooring throug hout the rest of the first floor. Ample lighting for task, ambiance, and navigation was placed at th e toe kick, under the cabinets, and along the ceili ng with recessed led can lights. Aesthetic modern island lights and the chandelier over the large bre akfast table are in a matte black with crisp white glass. The large island is flanked by an equally la rge breakfast table that allows for 10-12 easily withou t impeding the functionality of the kitchen work tr iangle. Ample storage is provided by the length of the large island as well as two large pantry cabine ts. The desire for more of a lake view was provided by opening up the window that was previously above the sink into a second sliding glass door. St acked baking ovens as well as a new gas range top w ith statement hood provides the home owner with the ability to cook meals for 20+ easily and quickl y. Care was placed to have selections that were eas y to clean with high contrast for easy visibility. The quartz countertops have a soft subtle movement and acts as the anchor for the color palette of the spa ce. The statement cuts of the backsplash behind the range lets the focal point of the kitchen shine and give a decisive end to the height of the quart z without going up the entire height of the wall. L ight protection and privacy is provided by the Provenanc e Woven Wood treatment above the plant window as we ll as the soft glow provided by the Luminette Sheer Shadings. Both of these treatments feature Po werview so the home owner has the ability to set th ese on a timer as well as tell Alexa to open and close the window treatments as needed. All in all, this light and bright kitchen updates and modernize s this home with current amenities and a timeless sensibility.
To learn more about this project, and see others, h ead to our portfolio on our website.
DON’T RENOVATE. INNOVATE.
Lifetime
Get the Most Out of Your Kitchen
We all want a beautiful kitchen, but a kitchen also needs to be a functional room where we cook, bake, and store essentials like food, supplies, and pots and pans. A functional kitchen has plenty of storage and is designed so you can quickly and easily find what you need and reach it.
ShelfGenie is a leader in making kitchens more useful
ShelfGenie designs, builds, and installs custom, glideout shelves that pull out the full depth of your existing cabinets and pantries to maximize usable storage and increase organization and accessibility. More shelves can fit into an existing cabinet or pantry, you can access the entire shelf front to back, plus each shelf is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship and can hold up to 100 pounds, so you can load them up.
Our process begins and ends with the homeowner
Our design consultant will get to know your needs during our free, in-home consultation. Together we will design a plan with your goals and needs in mind. The glide-out shelves are manufactured in our facility in Alabama to your exact specs. Our licensed, professional installer will then install your order in one day. Finally, your designer will come by on a follow-up visit to ensure you’re completely 100% satisfied.
Enjoy a more useful kitchen
Turn frustration with your kitchen into a joy. You can expect to increase your storage area by up to 50%, reduce wasted time looking for items, and avoid having to bend, twist, or reach into the backs of cabinets.
What our clients say
“ShelfGenie was the perfect solution to help me love my kitchen again. The Designer and Installer were wonderful and took the time to make sure it perfectly fit my family’s needs.” B.R., Knoxville
“We love the new shelves. They are truly life changing in the kitchen.” R.K., Knoxville
“Great improvement to what I had and very happy with the people I worked with.” S.O., Vonore To learn more or to schedule your free consultation, call 865-270-5465 or visit www.shelfgenie.com.
ShelfGenie® 865-270-5465 | www.shelfgenie.com
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Village Homes is proud to announce that only 5 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.
BRAIN GAMES OR BRAIN GAIN?
Experts Say Variety Keeps Your Mind Sharp
ABy Laurie Fox For our PLaCe
h, summer! Time with friends and family, often playing games, being active outdoors, and eating fresh fruits and vegetables. All so good for protective brain health. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, experts agree that keeping the brain active throughout life may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
“The evidence is strongest for a combination of physical activity, lifelong learning, and social engagement,” says Dr. Richard Isaacson, a neurologist known for his work on Alzheimer’s disease prevention. Rather than relying on a single brain game, he encourages people to continually challenge themselves with new experiences.
reserve,” the brain’s ability to compensate for age-related changes and disease. This reserve may allow some people to maintain thinking skills longer despite changes occurring in the brain.
Researchers believe mentally stimulating activities help build “cognitive
Among the activities experts recommend are learning a new language, taking music lessons, mastering a computer skill, or pursuing a creative hobby. These activities require the brain to form new neural connections while exercising memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Classic games also have benefits. Chess strengthens strategic thinking and planning, while bridge combines memory, reasoning, and social interaction. Mahjong has been associated with improved cognitive performance in older adults because it demands quick thinking, pattern recognition, and communication with other players. This game seems to be everywhere and has challenged me! Thank goodness for the love and patience of my Friday Mahjong group. Love you gals!
Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, word games, and jigsaw puzzles can also help keep the mind engaged. However, experts note that these activities work best when they are part of a broader lifestyle rather than the sole strategy for maintaining brain health.
“The brain is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it can become,” says Dr. Yaakov Stern of Columbia University, whose pioneering research helped establish the concept of cognitive reserve.
Creative pursuits such as painting, woodworking, quilting, photography, and dance classes also provide valuable
mental exercise. Dance is particularly beneficial because it combines physical activity, memorizing routines, balance, rhythm, and social interaction.
The message from researchers is reassuring: there is no single “magic” brain game. Instead, a lifestyle filled with movement, meaningful relationships, curiosity, and lifelong learning offers the best opportunity to support brain health and maintain cognitive function as we age.
Every time I visit Our PLACE Memory Day Center, I play a variety of games with the participants, offering me “Moments of Joy.” We have some very competitive folks who really like to win and also love to cheer on each other. And boy, do we laugh a lot. I see the same type of connection with my Mahjong gals. No matter what your level of brain function may be, we all crave a little challenge, a bunch of love, and true connection.
Follow our social media channels for more information on our upcoming Walk 2 Remember and Car Show on October 10 at Lenoir City Park. Thanks to you, this event has gotten bigger and better each year. Our PLACE, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, encourages anyone with questions to reach out to us at director@ourplacetn.org or (865) 657-7222 to schedule a 30-minute confidential appointment. Together we are better!
TN 37774
Speech Clarification and Noise Reduction
By roBert Ferraro, BC-HiS
Modern hearing aids have undergone remarkable technological advancements, allowing users to hear conversations more clearly while minimizing unwanted background sounds. One of the greatest challenges for hearing aid designers has been balancing noise reduction with speech clarification. If too much noise is suppressed, important speech sounds may also be lost. If speech is amplified without controlling background noise, users can become overwhelmed in busy environments. The latest hearing aids address this challenge through sophisticated digital processing and artificial intelligence, creating a more natural listening experience. No sharp, tinny sound. No listening fatigue.
A key innovation in modern hearing aids is their ability to distinguish speech from environmental noise. Using advanced microphones and signal-processing algorithms, these devices continuously analyze incoming sounds. They identify patterns associated with human speech and prioritize them while reducing less important noises such as traffic, air conditioners, or restaurant chatter. Unlike older models that amplified all sounds equally, today’s hearing aids selectively enhance communication without making the surrounding environment completely disappear. Artificial intelligence has further improved this balance. Many premium hearing aids can learn from listening situations and adapt automatically. For example, when a user enters a crowded room, the device can recognize the presence of multiple speakers and adjust its settings to focus on the person directly in front of the listener. At the same
time, it reduces competing background sounds. This adaptive capability allows users to participate more comfortably in conversations without constantly adjusting controls.
Directional microphone technology also plays an important role. By concentrating on sounds coming from a specific direction, hearing aids can improve speech understanding in noisy settings. Combined with noise-reduction features, directional microphones help users focus on conversations while maintaining awareness of important environmental sounds, such as alarms, announcements, or approaching vehicles.
Another important development is the preservation of natural sound quality. Instead of eliminating all background noise, modern hearing aids aim to reduce only the most distracting sounds. This approach helps users remain connected to their surroundings and prevents speech from sounding artificial or distorted. The result is a listening experience that feels both clear and realistic.
Better hearing isn’t just for you. It’s for your family. Your friends. Your coworkers. They don’t have to repeat themselves. They don’t have to shout. They get you back— fully present, fully connected. That’s a win for them, too.
Call us today for your FREE hearing exam, especially important if it’s your first time baseline test. Then be sure to follow up every year or two to ensure that your hearing stays in top condition.
Tellico Hearing Solutions, PLLC 865-635-1887 contact@TellicoHearingSolutions.com www.tellicohearingsolutions.com
PLANTING SEEDS
By PaStor PHiL ViCkerS
It is lucky that the Tellico Village Farmers Market operates right across the street from my church on Wednesday mornings. I teach a Bible study beginning at 10:00 a.m. on those days, so after I have made the coffee and gotten everything set up, I often wander over to see what is for sale. In the summer months, the place is a real cornucopia. You can walk away with a bag full of tomatoes, a cherry tart for breakfast, and a frozen halibut for dinner. Walking through the market, you can’t help but feel happy. There is such an abundance of good things gathered right in the heart of our little village.
As I visit there, I am reminded how often Jesus drew upon scenes just like these when he taught. The Bible is filled with images of seeds, vineyards, fig trees, wheat fields, harvests, and shepherds. Jesus knew that the people listening to him understood the rhythms of planting and growing. Before there could be bread, there had to be grain. Before there could be fruit, there had to be patient waiting. Farming was more than an occupation; it was a way of understanding life itself.
He said that if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can move mountains. He compared his followers to workers in a vineyard, some hired early in the morning and others called late in the day. He said that good people are like healthy trees that naturally bear good fruit. Again and again, Jesus pointed people to the fields around them because those fields quietly revealed something about the Kingdom of God.
One lesson seems to appear over and over: growth cannot be rushed. Seeds spend long stretches hidden beneath the soil before anyone sees a sprout. Fruit trees take years to mature. A harvest arrives only after weeks of watering, weeding, and waiting. Much of God’s work happens beneath the surface, unnoticed until one day we suddenly realize something beautiful has grown.
That can be an encouraging thought in a world that expects instant results. We are accustomed to overnight shipping, instant messages, and immediate answers. Yet the most worthwhile things in life still take time. Friendships deepen slowly. Character develops over years. Families are built one ordinary day at a time. Even faith often grows quietly, almost without our noticing, until we look back and discover that we have become more patient, more generous, and more hopeful than we once were.
The farmer’s market for me is a weekly reminder that we live in a world where life is constantly emerging from the earth, where people work faithfully in cooperation
COMING HOME
By Joe royBaL
Afarmer joyfully worked with his two adult sons, and their operation prospered. No two children are alike, however; while the eldest was content working the land and animals with his father, the younger brother’s dreams were elsewhere.
One day, the restless son asked his father’s blessings to leave with his inheritance and start anew. Broken-hearted, his father wished him well, and staked his son’s fresh start just as he’d asked.
So the son went abroad, eagerly anticipating a new life and career. But, being naïve and flush with easy wealth, he quickly gained exploitative “friends” who pulled him and his money into all the temptations around him. Once the money ran out, so did the friends.
Eventually, the young man hit bottom – homeless, hungry and filthy. In a moment of clarity, he took stock of his life. Having squandered his inheritance and abandoned his father, he knew his father owed him nothing. But he hoped his father might let him work as a laborer and sleep in the barn. So he picked himself up and started home.
As he neared the gatepost, his father recognized the gaunt, ragged figure. Overjoyed, he hurried his servants to tend to the boy’s physical needs, and instructed them to pick out a choice animal to prepare for a celebration feast.
That celebration was in full swing when the elder son returned from working the fields that evening. Informed that the celebration was over his brother’s return, he grew angry and went off alone. Noticing his absence, his father sought him out and asked: “Why aren’t you celebrating your brother’s return?”
The son shot back: “My brother ran out on you, squandered your money, and embarrassed you. Now, you celebrate his return? You’ve never shown me such gratitude, even though I’ve served you faithfully for years!”
Overcome, his father embraced him, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate because your brother was lost and now he is found!”
This parable by Jesus Christ of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) describes each of us. Like the wayward son, we have often run from God, ignoring and disregarding His biblical instruction and His promise of eternal life. But God – like this wayward son’s father – is always forgiving. No matter the heavy emotional burden you carry, no matter the weight of the failures you think make you unworthy, God will welcome you home. Just turn to Him.
First Baptist Church of Tellico Village (FBCTV) is a home for those seeking
with God’s good creation, and where abundance is possible because someone planted seeds months before anyone else could enjoy the harvest. It’s also a reminder to me that God is busy calling forth life, goodness, and love in us, like a patient farmer, and that we have the opportunity to be part of God’s own harvest. For that we can but say: thanks be to God.
shepherdofthelaketn.org
STATEHOOD FOR TENNESSEE
By Bo Carey
Last month we celebrated 250 years of American Independence, a most significant milestone. Few may know that it’s been 230 years since Tennessee earned the status of full statehood, dating back to 1796. The people and places which shape our state are indeed unique and significant, starting with Native American cultures predating colonial days, followed by waves of settlers and dreamers with the rugged spirit which characterizes the state today.
At the onset of our country, we were a part of the state of North Carolina. The independent thinking pioneers in East Tennessee were generally not pleased to live under North Carolina’s laws and oversight. By 1785 they attempted to establish self-government and created the State of Franklin. It was a noble experiment but only lasted for three years. When the vast Southwest Territory was created, the lands which now comprise Tennessee were included. William Blount, from right here in our backyard, was named territorial governor, and his leadership paved the way for Tennessee’s independence. Finally on June 1st, 1796 Tennessee became the 16th state in the union, less than 20 years after the onset of the American Revolution.
The people of our state refuse to be labeled due to our region. Tennessee was the last southern state to secede from the union and the first to be readmitted. East Tennesseans voted 2 to 1 against secession. As we here in the east boast the Great Smoky Mountains, we cannot be viewed as a mountain state, with the deltas of West Tennessee and broad lakes in between looking anything but mountainous. Although Nashville is known as Music City USA, that only goes back to its birthplace for country music. Memphis can stand toe to toe with any other city, including New Orleans, due to its blues influence on Beale Street along with a favorite son named Elvis.
At the onset of the War of 1812, Tennessee sent so many men to fight for the United States that we far, far exceeded the amount requested by the government. This same desire to risk lives while defending our country happened again in the Mexican American War a few years later, and we have been known as the Volunteer State ever since. Leading up to the latter conflict, Tennessee natives Sam Houston and Davy Crockett made historic names for themselves which today are celebrated more in Texas than they are here.
Today the state finds itself subject to a massive influx of new residents, with heavy migration coming from California, New York, and the Chicago suburbs. A first reaction would be to resist what changes this might bring to our way of life.... to the traditions of faith, hard work and individualism which have been our core strengths. My observations suggest those fleeing these other states are in line with our culture and wish to support our way of life rather than change it. They like lower taxes, less government oversight and our laid-back way of life. For those who condemn our state, wishing for something more like the big northeast or west coast urban centers, the easy test remains: How many people do you know who are anxious to move OUT of Tennessee? There just aren’t many “volunteers.”
Bo Carey is a 6th 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
GFWC 30th Annual Home Tour
The GFWC (General Federation of Women’s Club) Tellico Village is celebrating its 30th Annual Home Tour and Expo on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:30 pm. This milestone anniversary serves as the club’s major fundraising event of the year, with 100% of the event ticket sales directly benefiting local charities. Home Tour is a self-paced public viewing of 4 beautiful, privately owned homes located throughout the Tellico Village.
The Reception and Expo are held concurrently at the Tellico Village Yacht Club, 100 Sequoyah Road, Loudon TN. This year’s Expo will be featuring, Adams Roofing, Kitchen Tune Up, Miller’s Wholesale Flooring, ProDeck Outdoor Living, Synergy Home Care of East TN., Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance, B & S Tree Stump and Tree Service, CRS Exteriors, Sanchez Cleaning Service, Blinds & More, Kelli Ward, REALTOR®, BHHS Lakeside Realty and many other locally owned businesses. Light refreshments will also be available along with
many Silent Auction items. A must visit!
Over its three-decade history, this annual tour has allowed the GFWC Tellico Village club to funnel crucial financial support into local volunteer service through Civic Engagements, Health and Wellness, Arts and Culture, Education and Library and Environment. They have contributed over half a million dollars to local charities, such as The 9th Judicial Child Advocacy Center, Iva’s Place, Good Samaritan of Lenoir City, Family Resource Center of Loudon County and Family Resource Center Lenoir City, Smoky Mountain Service Dogs, Tellico Village Fire Department, Friends of Tellico Library, Habitat for Humanity, just to mention a few.
Tickets will be available beginning September 1, for $25.00.
Tickets can be purchased at Sloan’s of Tellico Village, The Tellico Village Welcome Center, The Village Salon, and Broadway Florist or through any GFWC Tellico Village club member.
Shepherd of the Lake Breaks Ground on Property Beautification
Shepherd of the Lake is officially breaking ground on a new beautification project for our church property. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming, peaceful, and inspiring environment for members, guests, and the wider community. As work begins, we celebrate the vision, planning, and generosity that have brought us to this moment. We look forward to watching this space transform and grow into something that blesses all who visit.
Shepherd of the Lake Church | 143 Chota Center, Loudon, TN | shepherdofthelaketn.org
CHEO invites you to:
With Shannon Haycox - Wholistic Healing Hands
Suzanne Jonas - Inner Harmony Health Center
Kari Hickey - Haven Chiropractic Jim Vesper - Circulation Station AUGUST 17, 2026
Rarity Bay Community Activity Center 150 Rarity Bay Parkway, Vonore, TN 37885
6:30 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm Program
Join Sharon, Suzanne, Kari, and Jim for an engaging educational evening focused on supporting your pets’ health through cranio-sacral, sound, chiropractic, and PEMF. Discover how each holistic method helps connect with and care for animals who cannot express their individual health needs. Great Door Prizes. Please - NO pets allowed as this is an indoor event. CHEO programs are free for members, with a $10.00 suggested minimum donation for all guests (cash or check please). The CHEO organization supports holistic and integrative wellness, providing the community with many opportunities to discover new pathways to well-being.
CHEO of Greater Knoxville Area is a non-profit organization and expressly disclaims all liability.
“Finally found someone I can trust to look out for my best interest, someone who has produced sound results and someone in whom I have con dence. I highly recommend Marsh Wealth Management.”
— Lenny G. Client, not paid
The Most Important Retirement Decision Isn’t Financial
By Yvonne Marsh, CFP®, CPA
After more than 15 years of helping people prepare for retirement, I’ve noticed something that often surprises people. The hardest retirement decision usually isn’t a financial one.
For most people, the numbers eventually become clear. Through years of saving, investing, and planning, we can develop a good understanding of whether retirement is financially possible. While there are always uncertainties, a thoughtful retirement plan provides confidence that the money can support the life you want to live. What isn’t nearly as easy to measure is what comes next.
Many people spend decades building careers, raising families, volunteering in their communities, and following routines that give structure to their days. Then retirement arrives, and for the first time in years, no one is expecting them to be anywhere on Monday morning. That freedom is something most of us look forward to, but it can also be an adjustment.
I’ve seen retirees who immediately thrive because they’ve been moving toward something they couldn’t wait to do. They travel, mentor, pursue hobbies, spend time with grandchildren, or simply enjoy having the flexibility to choose how each day unfolds. I’ve also met people who retire from a successful career without giving much thought to what they’re retiring to. They discover that while work brought deadlines and responsibilities, it also provided purpose, friendships, and a sense of identity.
The happiest retirees I’ve known don’t necessarily have the largest investment accounts. They have something equally important: reasons to get excited about tomorrow. They continue learning, contributing, connecting with others, and finding new ways to use the gifts and experiences they’ve accumulated over a lifetime.
Retirement isn’t simply the end of a career. It’s the beginning of a new chapter, and like any new chapter, it deserves thoughtful planning. The financial side helps create the opportunity. The personal side is what brings it to life.
As you think about your own retirement, don’t just ask, “Can I afford to retire?” Also ask yourself, “What do I want this next season of my life to look like?” A thoughtful retirement plan should help answer both questions.
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.
Oh My Gauze!
There’s a reason the Oh My Gauze clothing line has developed such a loyal following, especially here in East Tennessee. Made from 100% cotton gauze, these pieces are lightweight, breathable, and designed to keep you comfortable even during our hottest late summer days and those surprisingly warm early fall days. When temperatures remain high well into September and October, Oh My Gauze offers effortless style without sacrificing comfort.
One of the things customers love most about Oh My Gauze is its versatility. The collection includes dozens of styles that can be mixed and matched to create an endless number of outfits. From classic straight leg pants and relaxed wide leg pants to short tops, longer tunic-style tops, dresses, skirts, and more, there truly is something for every wardrobe and every occasion.
Another reason for the line’s popularity is its inclusive sizing. Oh My Gauze is available in sizes XS through 3X, making it easy for women of all shapes and sizes to find pieces that fit beautifully and feel even better. The relaxed silhouettes and breathable fabric make these styles favorites for travel, everyday
wear, and staying comfortable while still looking put together.
At The Lily Pad, we are proud to be the number one Oh My Gauze distributor in the Southeast United States. Our customers travel from across the region to shop our extensive selection of colors, styles, and sizes. Whether you’re discovering the line for the very first time or searching for your next favorite piece to add to your collection, you’ll find one of the largest selections available anywhere.
We would love to help you start your Oh My Gauze collection or add a few new favorites to the pieces you already love. Make a day of it in charming Downtown Sweetwater; spend the morning shopping, enjoy lunch at one of our local restaurants, browse the unique downtown shops, and let our team at The Lily Pad help you find the perfect Oh My Gauze pieces for the season ahead.
See you soon!
Brenda & Ivy
GOLF PRO TIPS
By SHaron LemeLman
Sharon recently received her Quarter Century Membership marking 25 years of work done in the name of The Professional Golfers’ Association of America.
PRE-SHOT ROUTINE
Do you realize that golf is the only sport played parallel to the target line? It is very difficult to line up for your target if you have to look sideways to see your target. For this reason, it is important to implement a preshot routine.
First thing to do is stand behind the ball facing the target. From this position pick a spot that is 4 to 6 feet in front of the ball. This could be the edge of a divot, a leaf, broken tee, a dead spot, discolored grass, basically anything that you can align with the target. This is very important because if your spot is off by an inch 4 feet in front of your ball and you hit a drive 200 yards well, you could now miss the fairway and be 30 yards or more from your target. Most golfers will then grip the club with their trailing hand (for right-handed
golfers it is the right hand). Holding the club with that hand they will set the club squarely behind the ball and set their distance to the ball. The last thing will be to bring the top hand (left hand for right-handed golfers) and square up the shoulders. Why this sequence is important is if a player goes in with the top hand first then the shoulders become closed to the target line. Now, it is extremely difficult to get back to a square position.
The story is told of an older professional golfer who was ready to hit a shot, and when a cough in the crowd disrupted his attention, he took his club and put it back in his bag. He then proceeded to take the same club out of his bag and begin again. His pre-shot routine started when he took his club out of his bag. Good players never want to get out of their routine. They have done this thousands upon thousands of times, and I must stress it helps calm the nerves and build confidence.
I quite often get players say they can’t take their range shots to the golf course and my first response is quite likely to be about their pre-shot routine. On the driving range everything is square. On our driving range we have 4 foot dividers separating each hitting area so it is very easy to be square but on the golf course their are no such defined lines so it is imperative to at least start behind the ball and pick your 4 to 6 foot spot. I am confident this will help you hit more fairways and greens.
Sharon Lemelman
East Tennessee Wildlife
By Kalley CooK
Red Foxes - Loudon County
We have two kinds of foxes that call Tennessee home: the gray fox and red fox. I haven’t had the chance to photograph a gray fox - just waiting on the moment when it finally happens; they are so much more elusive than our reds. The gray fox prefers wooded areas and rarely ventures close to humans, whereas the red fox can thrive in urban areas. I often just photograph red foxes right from my car, and they don’t seem to pay attention to me as much this way.
Red foxes will “move in” much closer to us humans while raising their young as this protects them from coyotes or other dangers in the woods; they will occupy your shed, under your porch, culverts, old groundhog dens, and several other spots. They are known to be nocturnal, and often scare people when they are seen out during the day. Many fear they might have rabies, but this is rarely the case. You can find red foxes year-round, but the best chance to see them is during the times when they are raising kits, with activity being best from late March through early
If
Kisses For Mom - When mom returns from a hunt,
July. During these months, mom fox (vixen) is in overtime trying to make sure all her kits are fed; her litters can range anywhere from 1-12 kits! After the kits reach a certain age, they tend to revert to their more nocturnal selves. It’s still not unusual to see them out during the day even during these months, just not as much.
During August, the kits are more like teenagers and are still hanging around each other and learning how to survive in the wild. After one season ends, I am always looking forward to the next!
Contact: Kalleybcook@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/
August In the Garden
By lisa GruGin
The Reality of August Gardening
Last month, I said your garden in July was at the “toddler stage.” August jumps right on up to the “teenage stage.” It’s unruly, unpredictable, and requires constant supervision. Warm-season crops are in full production, while cool-season crops are just waiting their turn. Meanwhile, your landscape plants may be looking a little stressed, like they too would prefer iced tea (maybe of the Long Island variety) and a siesta. August is all about maintenance and planning. You need to take care of what you have while, at the same time, you need to get things prepared for the fall. Are you ready?
Vegetable Garden Sanity
If you have a vegetable garden, things may be getting a little wild. Tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, and zucchini can require daily harvesting. Those cute little seedlings you bought a couple months ago may be providing way more than you can eat. On the other hand, they may have succumbed to the elements. If that is the case, clean the bed out, have a drink, and figure out what you need to do differently for the fall. Do you need to amend the soil? Install drip irrigation? Put up a fence?
August isn’t just about harvesting, however. It’s also time to start planning and planting for fall. What to plant:
• Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and collards can be started indoors this month if you haven’t already started them. They will need some time to mature before transplanting into the garden.
• Carrots, beets, radishes, turnips, and spinach can be sown directly in the ground late this month. Make sure the summer heat hasn’t baked your soil into rock! Working some compost or soil conditioner will help them get established.
Landscape Care: Keep It Alive
Your landscape plants are feeling the stress of heat and inconsistent rainfall. Lawns may be turning brown, shrubs might look droopy, and even hardy perennials can seem a bit grumpy. The goal here is survival, not perfection.
• Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root systems. Your best bet is to water early in the morning so that less is lost to evaporation. Also remember that trees and shrubs need much more water than grass and flowers. Adjust sprinklers accordingly. Drip irrigation is most effective.
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. 2”-3” of a good, natural mulch is all you need.
• Pull up weeds as often as you can to keep them from reseeding. Yes, it is a never-ending chore, but future you will be grateful.
• Avoid heavy pruning, which can stress plants further in the heat.
• Deadhead flowers to encourage continued blooming. This means you take off the spent blooms down to the next leaf cluster. If you just pop the bloom off without taking it down to a leaf, you have a weird stem sticking up and the plant will take much longer to re-bloom.
• And remember: A slightly scruffy garden (and gardener) in August is perfectly normal.
Help Mother Nature Out
I haven’t seen many butterflies this year, and it is making me very sad. Let’s talk a little about sustainable gardening practices and things you can do to help nature along.
• Avoid pesticides: When you use an insecticide, it doesn’t just kill the bad bugs. It kills the good bugs, too. It only takes a few seconds to do an internet search to see if an insect is a friend or foe. If it is going to harm your plants, the first option is to just smush it. The second option is insecticidal soap. Number three is Neem oil. After that, consult an expert.
• Encourage pollinators: Plant native perennials to encourage our native bees. Natives are generally very easy to grow and have few problems. You can also let some herbs like basil and oregano flower.
Take a Deep Breath
If gardening in spring feels like a sprint to get started, gardening in August feels more like running a marathon… in a sauna… while carrying a watering can. The heat is relentless, the weeds are unending, and your tomatoes are either thriving or dying. Don’t give up! August is one of the most important months in the garden. With a little strategy you can keep things productive while setting yourself up for a beautiful fall.
So yes, you’ll sweat. You’ll question your life choices while pulling weeds in 90 degree heat. But you will also have fresh vegetables and the joy of a beautiful yard, and when fall finally arrives, you’ll be glad you didn’t give up in August.
TRUTH TRAVELER: A 5D Journey Through Biblical History in Pigeon Forge
Located at 2680 Parkway in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Truth Traveler is a familyfriendly attraction offering an immersive journey through time and space, combining a cutting-edge planetarium with a virtual reality experience that transports guests back to the beginning of time. The attraction opened its doors in June 2025 after three years of development. The Experience
So, what exactly is it? Truth Traveler is a 5D experience brought to you by the team behind Ark Encounter, home of the life-sized Noah’s Ark in Kentucky, in partnership with Mindscape Creative. Guests climb into a pod to “go back in time” for a journey from Eden to the resurrection of Christ via a custom-animated VR ride, complete with motion benches, haptic feedback, and headsets for a full sensory experience. Think less “sit and watch” and more “buckle up and feel it.”
Along the way, you’ll visit the towering ark, stand at the foot of the Tower of Babel, and step into the unfolding story of redemption, guided by a quirky sidekick — a spunky, food-obsessed robot named P.O.D. who rides along as your co-pilot. It’s a playful touch that keeps things from feeling too heavy, especially for kids.
Ken Ham, co-founder of Answers in Genesis, has described the production quality as “Disney-level” while carrying a distinctly biblical narrative.
Beyond the VR ride, the attraction also includes a planetarium component (available as a separate or combined admission). This feature uses laser projectors and a large 30 foot, tilted dome to take guests on a journey deep into the far reaches of the universe. The planetarium show gives viewers a perspective on how huge the universe is and Earth’s location in it.
The attraction also features a gift shop and themed food and beverage options.
Getting There
Truth Traveler is about a 90-minute drive from Tellico Village via I-40. You can find out more at https://truthtraveler.com/pigeon-forge
Let us Lighten Your Load this Fall Season!
As fall approaches and the holidays draw near, your home becomes a hub for family gatherings, celebrations, and cozy evenings. With all the excitement, keeping up with household chores can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to laundry. This season, lighten your load by optimizing your laundry room for maximum efficiency and organization. A wellplanned space can turn laundry day from a dreaded task into a streamlined and even pleasant experience.
At The Tailored Closet, we specialize in transforming laundry areas into stylish, functional spaces that make every aspect of laundry easier. Here are a few ways our solutions can help you create the perfect laundry room.
Countertop Convenience
Imagine having a dedicated countertop in your laundry room for sorting, folding, or stacking clothes. A smooth, sturdy surface not only makes the task more enjoyable but also helps keep things organized. With ample space to lay out clothes, you can prevent wrinkles and make folding a breeze. Plus, it keeps the flow of laundry moving efficiently.
Hidden Storage
One of the secrets to an organized laundry room is hidden storage. Enclosed cabinets above or around your washer and dryer provide a place to store laundry supplies like detergents, softeners, and stain removers—keeping them within easy reach but out of sight. This keeps the room looking tidy and clutter-free while allowing you to grab what you need without a second thought.
Comprehensive Storage Solutions
Our designs go beyond just laundry essentials. We offer comprehensive storage solutions, including cabinets and drawers to accommodate both everyday and bulkier items. Tall cabinets are perfect for storing seasonal or larger items like extra linens, ensuring your laundry room stays neat and organized year-round.
Quick Ironing and Hanging Solutions
Touching up clothes with a quick press is made easy with a pull-down ironing board that stows away when not in use. No more dragging out a bulky ironing board—our solutions make this process quick and simple.
Need space for hanging freshly laundered clothes? We offer versatile pull-down or stationary rods, giving you
a place to hang clothes immediately after drying, which helps prevent wrinkles and keeps clothes looking fresh. For extra hanging space, pull-out valet rods can be used and tucked away when not needed.
Dirty Laundry Made Simple
Sorting dirty laundry is often a hassle, but our builtin pull-out hampers or baskets make it effortless. Keep whites, colors, and delicates separate with ease, maintaining a cleaner and more organized laundry routine.
At The Tailored Closet, we design laundry rooms that work for you—efficient, stylish, and customized to your needs. Let us help transform your space into a well-organized, attractive area. Contact us today at 865-777-0306 to schedule a free in-home consultation and lighten your laundry load this fall season!
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
The Tailored Closet (865) 777-0306 TailoredClosetKnoxville.com
Fall Into a More Functional Garage Space
As the vibrant colors of fall begin to paint the landscape, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garage for the upcoming season. For more than 15 years, PremierGarage of Knoxville has been at the forefront of providing high-quality, custom garage cabinetry designed to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space.
The fall season brings a natural shift in activities, from summer sports and outdoor fun to preparing for colder weather and holiday gatherings. This transition makes it an ideal time to rethink your garage’s organization. Our custom garage cabinets offer the perfect solution to keep everything in its place, giving your garage a uniform and inviting look while maximizing storage space.
Imagine incorporating upper and lower cabinets with drawers specifically designed to organize your sports gear, tools, lawn care items, car cleaning products, and even holiday decorations. Our custom garage cabinetry can be tailored to fit your unique needs, with features like baskets, drawers, and cabinet dividers, making it easy to store and access everything you need as the seasons change.
One of the key benefits of our custom garage cabinets is the fully enclosed storage space they offer. As the weather cools, it’s essential to protect your belongings from dust, pests, and fluctuating temperatures. Our cabinets keep your items safe and secure, providing peace of mind that your investments are well-protected. Additionally, safety is a significant concern in any garage, especially with children and pets around. Our cabinets are the perfect solution for keeping harmful liquids, sharp tools, and other dangerous items out of reach. Our custom cabinets not only offer superior organization but also enhance the safety of your garage, ensuring it’s a space the whole family can enjoy.
This fall, you can also personalize the look and feel of your garage with a variety of more than 25 available finishes. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic or something more traditional, our professional installation team ensures that your garage storage solutions are as sturdy as they are stylish, capable of holding your heaviest belongings with ease.
As you prepare for the season ahead, consider the transformative impact that our custom cabinetry can have on your garage. With a free in-home consultation, we can help you design the garage of your dreams, tailored to your needs and ready to support your lifestyle through every season. Let us guide you in creating a space that is not only functional but also a true extension of your home, reflecting your style and ensuring everything is in its place as the leaves begin to fall.
Give us a call today at (865) 947-8686 to schedule your free inhome consultation and let’s see what’s possible for your space!
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION PremierGarage (865) 947-8686 PremierGarage.com
