CAMPERS BRINGING NEW HOPE
By Mary Witort
September 27, 2024, was a significant day for residents of Eastern TN due to the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene. In response, many individuals from the Volunteer State (and other U.S. locations) rose up and responded with care, concern, labor, supplies, and CAMPERS!
Yes, campers. Originally conceived and initiated by Ben and Connie Yoder of Knoxville, in partnership with Patriot Church of Lenoir City, a project named “Tents To Campers” was born. This non-profit initiative collects donations to find, purchase, move, repair, clean, stock, deliver, and set-up campers for families affected by Hurricane Helene. Additionally, training and support is provided to the new owners, showing them how to use and maintain their camper. Each week campers are
delivered to NE Tennessee. To date, over 30 campers have been delivered to families who have requested a camper from the Tents to Campers project.
On February 1, 2025, a fundraiser was held at the Tellico Village Yacht Club to support East TN residents impacted by the Hurricane. A sold-out guest list enjoyed the exceptional musical talents of Casey James (American Idol finalist), who donated his performance, and comedian Shawn Farash. A delightful evening was had by all.
Together, we can help our fellow brothers, sisters, and their children rebuild their lives. If you want more information or would like to volunteer with this project, please send an email explaining your area of interest to: TentsToCampersTN@Yahoo.com.
If you would like to donate to the Tents to Campers project, please go online to: www.PatriotChurch.US/Giving. Click on the red colored “Give Now” box, select the “Hurricane Relief” option from the dropdown menu. Information is also provided for people preferring to mail a donation. 100% of all donations are provided to the Tents to Campers projects. No additional fees or charges are made or taken.
Campers, supplies, and money are not the only things that people have donated! A sweet lady in Nashville recently donated a beautiful older Jeep Cherokee !
Mike Miller and David Jones made the trip to Nashville to pick it up and brought it
A Strong Pioneer Woman
By Bo Carey
Historic records tell us that between 17951810, a young couple built a large log cabin on the north bank of the Tennessee River opposite modern day Loudon. John Carmichael wed Margaret Gardenhire, daughter of Revolutionary War soldier Jacob Gardenhire. They completed the cabin and became parents to eight children. By 1840 John had passed away and the six older children had either moved away or died young. This left Margaret Carmichael with her two youngest boys to raise and no meaningful income to support them.
With such a large 2-story home, empty rooms were her only tangible assets. Travelers crossing the river via Blair’s Ferry passed her cabin first on the way to Knoxville. The log building was a convenient place to stop after a long day riding by carriage or horseback from the south. Margaret began operating a stagecoach inn, with the help of sons Daniel and James. By 1850, the area was booming as a river and railroad center, and that meant the Carmichael Inn was in a pretty good location to host guests. It didn’t hurt that James’ and Dan’s Blair cousins operated the ferry where they could send weary passengers for a safe night’s rest. Margaret cooked meals for both stagecoach guests and family in the big fireplace at the center of the building, separating the two large downstairs rooms. A small 10-inch window was built into the front wall. Family records tell us Margaret would leave a candle burning in that window if she had beds available at the Inn, so travelers would know if they could stop and rest. That aperture exists today above the main banquet table for diners’ reminder of the old custom.
With the onset of the Civil War, Carmichael Inn became far less significant. By then Dan and Jim had married and enlisted to fight in the war. After the war the Carmichaels took up farming a mile or two up the river and continued doing so for almost 100 years. The old cabin was rented to families until the 1990’s when it was scheduled to be torn down. Betty Greer Carey could not witness such a sad end to her ancestors’ homeplace and inn, so she purchased the aging structure. She then hired a professional team to take it down and reassemble it log by log across the river in downtown Loudon. She was my mother, who inspired me to cherish local history and appreciate our most venerable landmarks. Margaret Carmichael was my great, great, great grandmother.
Today the Carmichael Inn still welcomes guests to stay a while and rest, while enjoying hot, tasty meals served in both the cabin and the adjacent tavern. Tammy Bivens is the strong enterprising woman who owns and runs the place. Like Margaret Carmichael, she wears lots of hats - server, host, cook and more, beginning with breakfast and sometimes saying farewell to the last guest long after dark. After 230 years, the old log walls have soaked up a lot of tales and sights from bygone days.
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.
Striving for excellence in all you do. I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately.
Several years ago, I was a teacher at a 2-week Christian drama camp. The students had classes in acting, singing, and dance; we also had daily devotions.
One of the teenaged boys on my team liked getting into trouble. He liked being the “class clown;” he was handsome, athletic, extremely talented, and probably the most popular boy in school – he also had a tremendous influence on others. He liked doing things that made my life difficult; oh, it wasn’t his goal to give me a hard time, but having fun was just more important to him than how his actions affected me (or anyone else).
About half-way through the 2-week camp, he and I had a deep conversation. I was trying to talk to him about his behavior, and I remember him saying “It doesn’t matter to God. It’s no big deal.” His lack of understanding floored me but helped me understand what he needed to hear. We talked for about ten minutes about the fact that God does care about everything we do – even the little things.
I shared these verses in Colossians with him: 3:17: And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus… and 3:23: Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.
I also explained to him that when we are faithful with the small things, God can trust us with the big things. (My paraphrase of Luke 16:10.)
With his eyes wide open, I could see these words hitting home, and he became a different young man - for the rest of the camp at least.
It’s easy for us to dismiss the importance of the quality of our actions regarding the “small stuff.” And I admit I am sometimes tempted to take the easy – or more fun - route. However, I’m often encouraged by so many people I’ve met in this beautiful East Tennessee area – people who are dedicated to excellence and try their best to do everything as unto the Lord
I am blessed to work with many of these people in various capacities and feel privileged to present many of them to you within the pages of East Tennessee’s Mountain Views every month. Simply put, these are really good, hard-working people – faithful in the little things (and the big ones, too!).
Kathy Rose East Tennessee’s Mountain Views
back to the church. Ben took it to Jonesborough Friday and helped a couple who had also recently received a camper from this ministry.
This family had lost everything in the flood when Hurricane Helene hit. They lost their home and both vehicles. Now with this donated vehicle, they can go to work and not be dependent on others for transportation! They have a precious two-year old daughter! Please remember to pray for this young family!
All the way to Indiana for a donated camper?!!!
That was the plan last week when Ben Yoder and Matthew Green made the trip in less than 32 hours! The home church of the couple who donated the camper filled it with supplies of every kind. It is clean, has been assigned, and will be delivered to someone in need of housing soon!
Prayers of blessings to the donors and their church! May they receive the promise of Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 NKJV
Remember to set your clocks to SPRING forward –March 9th, 2:00am
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Do You Have Hearing Loss?
By BoB Ferraro, H.i.S.
If so, it’s important to know you are not alone. (Globally, over 1.5 billion people, or 20% of the world’s population; and in the US alone, about 48 million people, about 14%, have hearing loss.) Don’t be embarrassed by your hearing loss. Don’t pretend to understand conversations, when you don’t. You shouldn’t risk friends and family thinking that you are just rude or not interested. When the reality is that you just can’t hear them.
Just because your hearing loss may not be all the way to the “profound” level yet doesn’t mean it isn’t holding you back in social settings. Struggling to keep up in a group conversation doesn’t keep you from feeling like you are “missing out”. And the extra energy required just to do that keeping up leads to eventually dropping out altogether. I personally have met people that I believed were just not friendly, or just not very
social. Because of our business, I have begun to realize that they were very friendly, they just couldn’t hear well and so they avoided conversations. It’s really a revelation!
Hearing aids will give you the wonderful experience of being completely in the moment in social situations, private moments outside or just with your close friends or spouse.
Maybe you have avoided physical activity. Hearing loss can affect your balance. The lack of participation in the sports or activities you used to enjoy may lead to depression. Remember that hearing loss is invisible! No one knows why you aren’t joining in; they may wrongly assume that you are just not interested in joining in and engaging with them.
Loose the frustration, reach out for a helping hand.
» Admit to yourself that you do not hear well.
» Get tested. (Our hearing tests are free and private)
» If needed, take the plunge and get hearing aids.
» Learn how to use them along with the phone apps that give you control options. After wearing your hearing aids your confidence will return. You will participate fully in conversations and activities.
That’s much better than retreating into the background so no one knows that your hearing is compromised.
Get back into life because you have so much to gain!
Call us TODAY to make your appointment for your FREE test.
Tellico Hearing Solutions, PLLC 865-635-1887 contact@TellicoHearingSolutions.com www.tellicohearingsolutions.com
“BUILDING THE FUTURE, ONE HOUSE AT A TIME!”
“BUILDING THE FUTURE, ONE HOUSE AT A TIME!”
“BUILDING THE FUTURE, ONE AT A TIME!”
At Elegant Homes, we take pride in our legacy of Homes, take of At our excellence in residential construction. With over 5 0 years years in With 0 of combined experience and multi-generational exper tise, experience multi-generational tise, our team brings a wealth of knowledge to every proj ect. wealth team ect. Our unwavering commitment to high-quality craftsman ship to ensures your home is built to last, turning your dr eam home eam to last, home into a reality. For over 20 years, we’ve been home into a reality. For over 20 years, we’ve been a reality. dedicated to building exceptional homes that stand the homes to test of time. of YOUR VISION, OUR EXPERTISE: YOUR VISION, OUR VISION, OUR
VIO, ELENA & DANIELLA
Ladies, Put Some JOY in Your Spring!
Is there any more glorious coming of season than spring – a time associated with hope, renewal and growth? Out of the gloom of winter comes a bright and spectacular burst of life and color as vegetation greens and buds, and a bounty of beautiful flowers pops everywhere.
Come celebrate and get a head start on the new season by joining the JOY Women’s Ministry of First Baptist Church for its annual spring event set for Saturday, April 5, at the First Baptist Church Tellico Village (FBCTV).
The 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. joy-filled event in the FBCTV Fellowship Hall will include:
• A delicious catered lunch
• A gardening demonstration by Tellico Village Garden Club, along with expert tips on plant survival and how to maximize blooms.
• An inspiring message from Brigitte Harrison, First Baptist Concord Church.
• A door prize giveaway of a window garden box filled with colorful live flowers of spring. The cost is $15/person, and all women are welcome. Gather your friends and join other women in our community for a relaxing time of food and fellowship focusing on the beauty of spring in our lives.
If you want to keep blooming this spring, we have exciting news for you! We will be sharing a sneak peak of our JOY Women’s Bible Studies spring session, “Grounded in the Word,” featuring three seven-week studies in the New Testament for you to choose from. Those who attend on April 5th will be among the first to meet the facilitators, ask questions, and sign up for classes that will be held on Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., April 23 through June 11.
For more information, contact Michelle Baker in the FBCTV church office at 865-4080110. Reservations are due by March 28.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE 205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774 (865) 408-0110 | www.fbctv.org
Company of Believers
By Pastor Phil Vickers
We have a wonderfully full schedule here at Shepherd of the Lake in March. On March 5th, we will honor Ash Wednesday with the service of imposition of Ashes. That weekend, our members are getting together in various small groups for fellowship around dinner. We call this ministry our “dinners for 6,7 or 8.” During these dinners our members get to know each other and hear each other’s stories. Our relatively small size as a congregation, with the help of intentional get-togethers like these, mean that our folks truly become a close family of faith. On Sunday the 9th, we are serving at Tyson House at the University of Tennessee. Tyson House is a Lutheran/Episcopal student ministry. Several times a year we go and provide a meal for the students who gather for worship on Sunday evening and get to fellowship with them and the leadership there. Though our congregation is composed of mostly retirees, we still get to be of service to the younger generations through this participation in the wider Church. On Wednesday the 12, we begin our Lenten services which are always accompanied by a soup supper. These Wednesdays will help us to prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration of Easter. This year, biblical storytelling and drama will be a part of our Wednesday worship.
Recently, I was at a small group meeting here at Shepherd of the Lake, and I wanted to begin that meeting with a reminder of why we get together. What is the Church after all?
Martin Luther, the founder of our tradition, once wrote: “The Church is not wood and stone, but the company of believing people who cling to Christ. It is they who make up the true Church.” I like the use of the term “company” in that quote because it reminds us that the folks of the Church are our companions in the journey of faith. We are not alone in this. Luther also reminds us that Christ is the center around which we gather.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, writing from prison during the third Reich, reflected that “The Church is the Church only when it exists for others. It must share in the secular problems of ordinary human life, not dominating, but helping and serving. It must tell men of every calling what it means to live for Christ, to exist for others.”
When I look to our Church calendar, what I hope to see is that what we do matches up with the sentiments behind both of these quotes. Are we about people and not things? Are we about each other, about the stranger, about helping and serving? Most importantly are we about Christ? It is a blessing to be able to try to answer these questions with a resounding “yes” here with the good people of Shepherd of the Lake.
Best-Selling Books
Largely taken for granted today, the widespread availability and affordability of books is a relatively recent happening. Essentially, only the rich and connected had access to books prior to the coming of Johannes Gutenberg’s moveable-type printing press in 1454.
Books serve as a source of knowledge, stimulate imagination, broaden perspectives, enhance critical thinking skills, and provide entertainment, inspiration and connection with others. It’s no overstatement to say they can change lives, even history.
Books are ageless, and their information, lessons and morals can transcend centuries. For instance, the moral lessons in “Aesop’s Fables,” written around 600 BC, endure today. And “The Art of War” by Chinese general/strategist Sun Tzu written around the same time, still influences strategic thinking in war, business, law and sports.
“How the Other Half Lives” by Jacob Riis opened eyes to the dangerous working and living conditions of America’s poor in the Industrial Revolution. And “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson is credited with launching the environmental movement.
These and other works have individually sold millions of copies, even hundreds of millions. But all pale in comparison to the number one book in all-time sales and influence – the Bible at an astounding 5 billion copies!
Written between the 8th Century BC and 1st Century AD, the Bible is the basis of Christianity, the world’s largest, most followed religion. Considered by believers as inspired by God Himself (2 Timothy 3:16), it’s also the most translated book in history. And, interestingly, it’s seeing a dramatic resurgence today. Circana Bookscan reports Bible sales rose 22% through October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Meanwhile, total U.S. print book sales were only up 1%, according to the Wall Street Journal
What’s driving this? Minnesota-based Bishop Robert Barron tells Fox News Digital the Bible has been THE main source of meaning, purpose and value – certainly for Western civilization, but also the world. “I think people are turning back to the Bible in greater numbers because they’re looking for that, and they realize instinctively they’re going to find it.”
In a world full of confusion, anxiety and loneliness, the Bible offers purpose, direction, forgiveness and salvation. It is a book of redemption, and THE best source to learn what is right and wrong in God’s eyes. Learn for yourself what many others are finding in the Bible.
First Baptist Church Tellico Village (FBCTV) is a congregation centered on learning and studying God’s Word. Lead Pastor David Talley is a biblical scholar who centers his teaching on God’s Word. Pastors Talley and Kem Lindsey invite you to come and worship in person or online on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit FBCTV.com for more information.
Pastor Dave’s Prayer:
“Lord, may You open our eyes to understand more fully the truths of Your timeless treasure, the Bible. Help us to live these truths so that You are magnified and receive the glory You deserve. And, Lord, help everyone who reads this to open up the Bible and hear from You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE
205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774 (865) 408-0110 | www.fbctv.org
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A Journey from Blueprint to Dream Home
W“Trust
hen we moved to Tellico Village, we were adamant that “WE ARE NOT Building! We had been through the building process before and knew the challenges and headaches associated with building.
Building a house is a monumental undertaking that goes beyond mere construction. The journey from blueprint to dream home is paved with excitement, challenges, decisions, and ultimately, immense satisfaction. After missing a couple of opportunities to buy, we said perhaps we should revisit the idea of building. That is when we met with Kit Keener, and from the moment we met Kit, we were excited about the opportunity to build our dream home. We had a vision of what our perfect home would look like. When we explained our vision to Kit he said, “I built a home similar to that floor plan not long ago.” He went into his backroom and brought out a floor plan very similar to ours. We had the architect make some minor revisions. When the plans were finalized, Keener put together an estimate of cost, and we were on our way. With plans in place, we anxiously anticipated the groundbreaking. We met the Keener Team, which includes Krisha in the office and Derek, the project manager. Everyone on the team was wonderful to work with, and we always had an open line of communication. In the planning stage, we were told to plan on a year to complete the build. We broke ground in November 2023, and our goal was to be in the house before the 2024 holidays. Watching the house take shape from the ground up was incredibly exciting and at each stage of construction our vision was a step closer toward our goal.
We knew that building a house is rarely a smooth journey; it is replete with challenges that test patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Weather delays, supply chain disruptions, and unforeseen technical issues can cause setbacks. We cannot emphasize enough the effective communication with Keener Homes, especially Derek, who helped us maintain a positive outlook while navigating these hurdles.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of building a house is the opportunity to add personal touches and customizations. From selecting paint colors and flooring to choosing fixtures and cabinetry. Keener’s list of suppliers and subcontractors was extremely helpful as we had to make these decisions which allowed us to infuse our personality and style into our home.
We anxiously awaited the culmination of the building process and move-in day. We celebrated this milestone with joy and relief, as the vision of a dream home was finally realized. We moved in October of 2024, making it before the holidays and meeting the timetable and within the budget provided to us by Keener Homes. We are very grateful to Kit, Krisha and Derek for their friendship, craftmanship and professionalism during our building process.
The experience of building a house is a profound adventure that encompasses much more than physical construction. It is a journey marked by planning, creativity, resilience, and joy. If you are looking to build your dream home, we highly recommend the Keener Homes Team!!
Randy and Mary Beth Neuhaus CHEO invites you to:
With Kerry Brown from Strong Roots Resources Monday, March 10, 2025
» Location: Shepherd of the Lake Church Friendship Hall (Tellico Village)
» 143 Chota Ctr. Loudon, TN 37774 » 6:30 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm Program
Do you know how to survive if there is no water or no electric for a day, a month or longer? Come and join Kerry Brown from Strong Roots Resources for a presentation on what you need to know in order to cover your own power, water and security needs in the event of a grid-down scenario. This will be an introductory presentation with opportunity for Q&A and discussion.
Door Prize: American elderberry cuttings and instructions on how to root them.
CHEO programs are free for members, with a $10.00 suggested minimum donation for all guests (cash or check please). CHEO of Greater Knoxville Area is a non-profit organization supporting holistic and integrative wellness, providing the community with many opportunities to discover new pathways to well-being.
CHEO of Greater Knoxville Area is a nonprofit organization and expressly disclaims all liability.
Avoiding Medicare IRMAA: How to Keep More of Your Retirement Money
By yvonne MarSH, CFP®, CPa
If you’re a higher-income retiree on Medicare, you may have noticed an extra charge on your premiums called IRMAA—and if you haven’t yet, it’s worth knowing about before it sneaks up on you.
What is IRMAA?
IRMAA stands for Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. It’s an extra charge added to your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums if your income exceeds certain limits. Medicare determines this based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from your tax return two years prior—so in 2025, they’re looking at what you earned in 2023.
For 2025, IRMAA kicks in if your 2023 MAGI exceeds $212,000 for joint filers ($106,000 for single). The more you earn, the higher your IRMAA surcharge, with the top tier pushing Medicare costs up by several hundred dollars per month, per spouse.
How to Minimize IRMAA The good news? With smart planning, you may be able to reduce or even avoid IRMAA altogether. Here’s how:
1. Manage Your Taxable Income – Since IRMAA is based on your MAGI, controlling what counts as income is key. Strategies like spreading Roth IRA conversions over multiple years, or withdrawing from taxable accounts first, or spreading out capital gains over multiple years can all help keep you under the IRMAA thresholds.
2. Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
– If you’re taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from an IRA, you can donate up to $105,000 directly to charity. This satisfies your RMD without increasing your taxable income.
3. Time Your Income – If you’re selling a business, cashing in stock options, or taking large one-time distributions, try to do so before Medicare starts or spread the income over multiple years to avoid IRMAA brackets.
Can You Appeal IRMAA?
Yes! If you’ve had a major life-changing event— such as retirement, marriage, divorce, or the death of a spouse—you can request an IRMAA waiver using Form SSA-44. This allows Social Security to recalculate your Medicare premiums based on your reduced income. Many
retirees successfully lower their IRMAA surcharges this way, and you may need to complete the form 2 years in a row before your actual MAGI is reported as reduced.
Take Control of Your Medicare Costs
Medicare IRMAA can feel like a sneaky tax on success, but with the right planning, you can keep more of your hard-earned money in retirement. If you’d like to explore strategies to minimize IRMAA—or need help filing an appeal—reach out to me. I’d be happy to walk you through your options and help you keep your Medicare costs in check.
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.
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JSpring is Arriving While
We Begin Planning for Fall!
By Brenda Bryan
ust as you're beginning to think about your spring wardrobe, we're concentrating on what's new and what you'll like for Fall 2025. This business is a multi-level chess game with a lot of moves going on simultaneously!
Where does it all come from? I thought it might be interesting to take you on our own never-ending journey into the fun and exciting world of fashion.
Many times, we're involved with three seasons at once.
At this time, all winter merchandise is on sale, 50% off original price... new colorful spring fashions arriving... fall in the planning stages! It's so much fun to see all of the pieces of the puzzle fall into place in the wonderful mix that's been ordered months ago. Just as spring begins to arrive, we're at Market making selections, making the choices that you'll love to see in the fall.
These color choices appear not only in apparel but in home goods, jewelry, gift items and even dinnerware. Various sources predict the colors trends... based upon lifestyle, world events and the past.
Fabrics are also a key point in our purchasing decisions at Market.
We stock lines of pure cotton in both sweaters and tops year-round,
appealing to the lady with the natural feel of the fabric.
The final step of the buying process comes from you, our customer. Every bit of information we gather from you is studied and evaluated as we enter it into the equation of buying for the upcoming season. Remember that we always love your suggestions!
Our buying is with your lifestyle in mind, which has become much more casual over the years. You want clothing that looks good and feels good, the perfect combination!
These are some of the things that have contributed to our longevity and success... we listen to your wishes and then we search out the lines that will fill these needs.
As you browse through the store, you'll know that even though you're loving the season we're in, your fashions for the next season are being constructed with you in mind!
Local suppor t to help you navigate your Medicare opt ions
C alla licensed sales agent PENELOPE MAYO 865-518-9161 (TTY: 711)
East Tennessee Area Beauty: Lighting
By Kalley CooK
I’m out and about taking photos nearly every weekend, and I love all my photos and experiences. But the photos that really stand out to me and others are the ones with interesting lighting. To get the best lighting, I always suggest photographing wildlife and landscapes during the golden hours - sunrise or sunset. Just going out and photographing during these golden hours improves anyone’s photos; but be sure to also pay attention to how the light shines on your subject. Most of the time I like my back towards the sun or to the side of me. Sometimes I will photograph a subject with their back to the sun but that rarely happens because the light and subject have to be placed just right. Of course, you won’t always have this perfect golden hour for all photos; that’s when you make the best of it and try to get creative.
If you ever get the chance to scroll through my website, you should be able to distinguish the lighting I was working with. If you can’t really see any kind of lighting on some photos, it’s because it was likely a cloudy day - which is great lighting as well.
I hope I was able to teach you something from this article; I wanted to write something a little different from my normal.
Contact: Kalleybcook@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/
Let’s Get Your Outdoor Space Ready For Spring
The Blinds & More team has made it their top priority to work with only the best in the industry to give you the quality you and your home deserve. So, give us a call today to get your outdoor project started.
AIn the Garden March
By lisa GruGin
h, March in East Tennessee - a time when the weather is about as stable as a toddler on roller skates. One day you’re basking in a glorious 70 degree afternoon (74 on February 4th, setting a record) and the next you’re scraping frost off your windshield. But despite the mood swings of Mother Nature, this is prime time to get your garden (and your indoor plants) ready for the growing season.
Outdoor Gardening: Shake Off the Winter Blahs March is when things start waking up in the garden. If you’ve been watching gardening programs on TV and trying to decide what you want to do in your yard, it’s time to shake off the hibernation mode and grab your gardening gloves.
» Start with Cleanup: Winter has undoubtedly left behind a mess - fallen leaves, broken branches, and that one rogue garden gnome you swore went missing last fall. Rake up debris and trim dead growth, but leave a few inches on hollow stemmed perennials for bees to nest in.
» Soil Prep & Amendments: Good soil is the backbone of a great garden. Mix in compost, aged manure, or a balanced organic fertilizer to give your plants a boost. If your soil is still a bit waterlogged from our recent rains, hold off on digging until it dries out a little.
» Plant Cool-Season Crops: If you’ve been itching to get some veggies in the ground, now’s the time! Leafy greens like lettuce, kale, and spinach thrive in these cool temperatures. Carrots, radishes, and peas are also eager to make an appearance.
» Start Seeds Indoors: If you’re dreaming of summer tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, get those seeds started indoors now. A sunny window or grow lights will keep them happy until it’s time for their big outdoor debut.
» Check on Perennials & Shrubs: Give your perennials a little TLC by cutting back dead stems and dividing any overgrown clumps. Prune summer-blooming shrubs but hold off on spring bloomers unless you enjoy sabotaging your own flowers. Remember that education is key!
Houseplant Care: Spring Cleaning for Your Indoor Jungle
Your houseplants have also been suffering through winter. The air in our homes tends to be very dry this time of year, and most houseplants prefer more humidity. In addition, the sunlight is not as bright so plants can get leggy and sad looking. March is the perfect time to give them a little refresh so they can enter the growing season in top shape.
» Repotting: If your houseplant looks like it’s trying to escape its pot, it might be time to move on up. Choose a container one size larger and give those roots some breathing room. Remember, the soil you choose will be feeding your plant for the next few years, so go for the good stuff. Cheap soil is the equivalent of chips and beer.
» Spring Feeding: Most of our houseplants have been dormant this winter and will need some fuel to get going again. Start fertilizing houseplants with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer to wake them up.
» Dusting & Cleaning: Your plants have likely accumulated dust during the winter, making it harder for them to photosynthesize. Give their leaves a gentle
High Quality Carpet, Flooring, & Cabinetry for the Lowest Prices
By riCK Kleveno owner – Country Carpet & FloorinG / CaBinets
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
wipe-down or a quick rinse in the shower. (Yes, your ferns and monstera will love a spa day.) Small plants can go in the sink.
» Check for Pests: Warmer temperatures mean an increase in houseplant pests. Check for signs of mealybugs, spider mites, or aphids and act swiftly before they stage a full-scale invasion.
Embracing the March Madness (Not the Basketball Kind)
March gardening in East Tennessee is a gamble, but that’s part of the thrill. You’ll have beautiful, sunny days that trick you into thinking it’s already summer, and then you’ll wake up to a frost warning that sends you sprinting outside to cover your tender seedlings in a panic. But through it all, there’s something magical about this in-between season - the anticipation, the promise of growth, and the first bright green sprouts pushing through the soil. Spring gives us hope.
So whether you’re dusting off your gardening tools, wrestling a root-bound snake plant, or simply enjoying the sight of daffodils making their grand entrance, embrace the chaos of March gardening. Spring
Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center 9885 Highway 11E, Lenoir City, TN 37772
865.986.7229
MeadowViewGreenhouse.com
I ntroducing the
the Baptist Eye Surgeons are the rst in Knoxville to o er this groundbreak ing technology to our patients
The RxSight® Light Adjustable Lens™ (LAL) is revolutionizing ophthalmology tarac t surger y is the most common rocedure in the .S., and until now, geons relied upon y measurements mine a patient ’s operative needs. r, with RxSight® djustable Lens™ (LAL), patients get to rive and adjust their vision af ter surger y prescription.
can be customized after surger y c ustomized refrac tive outcomes patients that non-adjustable IOLs cannot match1
• Patients are t wo times as likely to achieve 20/20 vision or better without glasses1
• High quality vision with no reduc tion in contrast or increased glare and halos compared to a monofocal IOL1
Austin Nave, M.D Paul Pruett, M.D Darin Smith, M.D
Marc Bodenheimer, M.D. Adam Carrera, M.D. Frank Murchinson, M.D.
Enhancing Your Garage Flooring: Not All Coatings Are Equal
Are you tired of cringing at the sight of your garage floor marred by pits and stains? Has it become a hazard with crumbling concrete, cracks, or slick spots from years of oil leaks?
As the gateway to your home and often the largest room, the garage deserves attention to transform it into
a safe extension of your living space. Homeowners are turning to concrete coatings to achieve this, but it’s essential to recognize that not all options are created equal.
According to Brian Falls, co-owner of PremierGarage of Knoxville, a leading garage flooring company in the area, the choice typically boils down to epoxy or polyurea
systems. Falls emphasizes that polyurea stands out as the most advanced and durable coating in concrete flooring technology, providing quality you can rely on.
Here are the additional benefits of opting for a polyurea system for your garage floor:
1. Unparalleled Durability: Polyurea withstands extreme pressure, heavy impacts, and spills, offering superior protection against common garage chemicals like gasoline and paint thinner. It boasts flexibility, up to 20 times stronger than epoxy, and is UV-resistant with no harmful VOCs. Importantly, it withstands high temperatures, preventing issues like hot tires lifting the coating.
2. Enhanced Safety: Polyurea, combined with polymer paint flakes, creates a slip-resistant surface, reducing the risk of accidents on wet floors. The coating is also antibacterial, stain-resistant, and non-toxic.
3. Rapid Installation and Longevity: Unlike standard epoxy systems that take several days to cure, polyurea hardens within hours and is ready for use in a day. PremierGarage’s polyurea floor coating, backed by a 10-year warranty, retains its color and finish integrity.
4. Easy Maintenance: Spills are effortlessly cleaned with a paper towel, and occasional cleaning with water and vinegar keeps the floor looking new. PremierGarage relies on our expertise and the experience of our manufacturers to produce the highest quality garage floor system on the market. Derived from the resinous floor industry’s research, testing, and knowledge. Your garage floor may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of home improvement, but it plays a vital role in aesthetics and functionality.
Our team is uniquely talented and qualified with 100+ years of combined experience with these resinous floor systems. We are a team of people that install concrete coatings as our core business. It is our primary focus, which means our integrity, consistency, and ongoing success is dependent upon our being the best at what we do.
Investing in a polyurea garage floor not only enhances your home’s value but also combines beauty with strength, proving to be a worthwhile investment. Give us a call at 865-947-8686 to schedule your free in-home consultation.
REQUEST
Make It Easy on Yourself with Custom Shelf Storage
By Carrie MCConKey, CarrieMCConKey CoM
Once upon a time, you wouldn’t think twice about perching on a stool to reach those high kitchen shelves or crouching in your bathroom to grasp an item under your sink. Today, it’s a different story. If you have mobility issues, you may be using those storage areas less and less. You love your home and aren’t ready to downsize. Now, you don’t have to. Get your cabinets back, and more, with the space experts at Shelf Help!
Celebrating seven years in business, Shelf Help specializes in sturdy and attractive custom roll-out shelving and organizers for your kitchen, bath, and pantry. We’re your neighbors in Knoxville - not a franchise, but locally owned and operated. Because we’re a small business, our customers save 50% or more when compared to national brands. Best of all, everything we do is custom tailored to you.
In the Kitchen…
Whether you have limitations in movement or are simply “vertically challenged,” pull-down units will provide effortless access to those hard-to-reach upper shelves in your kitchen cabinets. For help managing heavy pots, pans, and skillets, a soft-close pot and lid organizer pull-out can be installed in lower cabinetry for clutter-free and easy-to-handle storage. And you no longer have to strain your eyes to see into those deep corner cabinets - we have a variety of solutions like a lazy susan, pull-out shelf, or corner half-moon shelf.
In the Bath…
Stop stooping in your bathroom to re-
trieve grooming products by installing a Salon Station with roll-out organizers for brushes, blowdryers, and other supplies. Or, try a powered vanity drawer that stores your plugged-in electric grooming appliances with an automatic shut-off switch when the drawer is closed. Under the sink, recover unused space around the plumbing with custom roll-out shelving, and try a removable basket to hold cleaning products.
In the Pantry…
From pull-outs to swing-outs, maxi-
mize your pantry with convenient rolling shelves that will store your canned items, dry goods, paper products and more. No matter the size of your pantry, you’ll be shocked at the amount of space you’ll gain after installing custom shelving. And prepare to do away with cumbersome, door-mounted storage racks - you won’t need them!
Make your day-to-day living comfortable and your house fully usable with Shelf Help custom-designed roll-out
shelves for your kitchen, pantry, or bath. Call us today for your free, no-obligation, in-home consultation. Our experienced design consultants will evaluate, design, and measure according to your lifestyle and unique needs, and our professional installers will provide thorough and competent service with a smile. Make it easy on yourself - call us for a free consultation today!
Shelf Help 865.675.5098
ShelfHelpTN.com
Pet Urine, Spills, and Your Expensive Oriental Rug!
By Kerry MCDuFFie owner – superior ruG CleaninG
You ’ve hand-picked the perfect Oriental rug for your living space. Then, oops, a spill happens, or you discover a wet spot left as a “special” gift from your beloved pet!
Not only can the spill or urine harm the rug, it can also do significant damage to your floor underneath the rug. What do you do?
There are a couple of things you can do. First, before the inevitable wet spot even happens, call Kerry at Superior Rug Cleaning (865-691-5686) to have a custom rug pad installed under your rug. It s important to use a rug pad that protects you, your floors, and your rug. The wrong rug pad can cause damage to the floors, allow the rug to slip, roll, and slide, and might even be toxic. Superior Rug Cleaning installs pads that are waterproof, pet and child friendly, odorless, and are guaranteed washable for the life of the rug.
Second, if have a current spill or pet urine stain that you are dealing with, Kerry recommends you do the following:
1. Soak up the urine or spill immediately or as soon as possible.
2. Spray the area with a product called, “Nature’s Miracle” (Liquid). This is one of the best products I have found for these types of spills. (Available for consumer purchase in stores.)
3. Blot the area and repeat spraying with Nature’s Miracle, if needed
4. Spray the area with water and blot
If these steps don’t get the area cleaned, call me at Superior Rug Cleaning - 865691-5686. Many times, urine that has been there awhile will not come out with regular cleaning, it must be flushed professionally with special cleaning agents designed to remove the urea salts and ammonia smell. Sometimes even the yellow stain can lighten up. Launched in 1985, for over 39 years Superior Rug Cleaning has focused specifically on pursuing and investing in new, state-of-the-art technology specifically to ensure your heirloom Oriental rug maintains its original beauty and quality. Call or text Superior Rug Cleaning at 865-691-5686, email them at info@
superiorofknoxville.com, or reach them on Facebook to schedule your carpet and rug cleanings today. Invest in your rug’s true potential and beauty today! “Quality plus Service equals Superior Value....GUARANTEED” Superior Rug Cleaning 865-691-5686 www.superiorofknoxville.com
Considering a Custom Closet? 5 Key Questions to Ponder
Are you tired of rummaging through a cluttered mess of clothes just to assemble a single outfit? Struggling to locate matching items in your chaotic closet? It might be time to consider a solution that brings order and efficiency to your wardrobe chaos: a custom closet tailored to your needs.
At Tailored Closet, we understand the importance of a well-organized space that simplifies your life. Our professionals will collaborate with you to create a personalized closet design that aligns with your lifestyle. Before scheduling your in-home consultation, here are five essential questions to ask yourself:
1. How much space do I have available? Assessing the dimensions of your closet is crucial for designing an effective organizational system. Whether your space is small or spacious, understanding its size and layout will guide our designers in maximizing every inch of storage.
2. What is my budget? Determining your budget upfront allows us to tailor the design to fit your financial parameters. While costs vary based on factors like closet size and desired features, considering your budget helps prioritize design elements that align with your financial goals.
3. What types of clothing will I be storing? Consider the variety of items you intend to store in your closet, from shirts and pants to accessories and shoes. Identifying your storage needs enables us to customize solutions that accommodate your specific wardrobe requirements.
“Communication
- Jeff Horton Quality Product Solutions
4. Which accessories and organizers do I require? Think about the accessories and organizers that would enhance your closet’s functionality. Whether it’s jewelry drawers, pullout hampers, or belt racks, integrating these features ensures seamless organization and easy access to your belongings.
5. What items do I want to showcase for convenience? Whether it’s displaying handbags or showcasing ties, envision how you want to arrange and access your belongings within the closet. Our designers can incorporate stylish and practical solutions that elevate both the functionality and aesthetics of your space.
By addressing these questions, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on the journey toward your dream closet. At Tailored Closet, we’re committed to crafting custom solutions that reflect your unique lifestyle and preferences. Contact us today at (865) 7770306 and let’s transform your closet into a personalized haven of organization and style! REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
The Tailored Closet (865) 777-0306
TailoredClosetKnoxville.com
The Male Face of Caregiving
Diane strever For Our plaCe
Welcome back to the Our PLACE monthly update. Share our information if you have a loved one, friend, or neighbor who would benefit from our adult day center program. This month we’ll examine how men navigate their caregiver challenges, and how Our PLACE can provide support and assistance. Later, we will share the life of our “Moment of Joy” individual who attends our program.
Make plans to join us at our Second Annual Gala on May 18, 2025, at the Tellico Village Yacht Club for an amazing evening of fun, excitement, and great food, benefiting Our PLACE participants, caregivers, and programs. This year you’ll have the opportunity to bid to win exclusive domestic and international trips of a lifetime from AmFund, our nonprofit sponsor.
USA Today highlighted a survey showing more men are caregivers. It indicated that one in three men perform unpaid caregiver work: 27% care for a parent; 13% care for a spouse, 9% for a grandparent, and the remainder for others. According to the most recent Alzheimer’s Association’s Facts and Figures, of the 6.9 million people 65 and older with Alzheimer’s/dementia, 4.2 million are women, and 2.7 million are men. Because women live longer, the number of male caregivers is expected to increase rapidly. So, it makes sense to focus on the critical role of male caregivers, and some of the issues they encounter while caring for a female with Alzheimer’s. One study identifies three difficult areas for male caregivers– domestic chores, including laundry, food preparation, and personal care. Assuming responsibility for daily meal planning and preparation is difficult. Providing personal care is an unexpected challenge for men as their spouse’s/parent’s health declines and marks a critical transition in caregiving. Many take extraordinary efforts to adapt to the daunting job of providing personal care. However, men surprise themselves with providing competent personal care for their wives as it becomes part of everyday reality and routine. Two studies reported that by focusing on the little things, men achieve a sense of control in a situation that is increasingly out of their control. The men in the studies used both formal and informal support and sincerely appreciated it when others took the initiative to offer support.
Our PLACE provides support and resources through a monthly Men’s Support Group, which meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 260 Wade Street, Loudon. My father would have appreciated this group’s support as he cared for my mother. Please share this information with a male caregiver who would benefit from this support.
Our “Moment of Joy” individual is Philip, who moved from California with his wife Annie in 2003. Philip was an operating room technician at the Henry Ford Hospital, where he met Annie. They were married on Thanksgiving, 1959, and he worked in the outpatient department of the Maine Medical Center. Here in Tellico Village, Philip was a valuable member of the TV Fire Department and taught First Aid classes to members and residents. Philip enjoys the interaction and kindness he finds at Our PLACE. Annie can find time for appointments, gardening, or reading while he is at Our PLACE two days a week. Philip loves his morning greeting from Our PLACE staff, who ask if he’s ready for his morning cup of coffee! Truly his smile is a “Moment of Joy!”
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
