he holidays are here, and across Tennessee, destinations, both big and small, are ready to celebrate. From millions of twinkling lights to festive live music, from Dollywood to Graceland, the 2025 season is shaping up to be one the merriest and brightest in recent memory. Discover what’s happening this year during the holidays in East Tennessee.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge Winterfest (November 6 through February 15, 2026): During this annual citywide celebration, Pigeon Forge is draped in more than five million holiday lights, creating a winter wonderland for locals and guests alike to enjoy. Winterfest turns the best Pigeon Forge shows and theaters into a special holiday experience.
Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud (November 1, 2025 - January 3, 2026): Join Pa Hatfield and Ma McCoy as they try to set aside their legendary differences in the spirit of the season during this side-splitting dinner theater experience.
Christmas at Christmas at Dolly Parton’s Stampede (October 30, 2025 - January 3, 2026). The cast at Dolly Parton’s Stampede will take you on a holiday trip this Christmas season. Join them for a friendly North Pole –South Pole rivalry, including the 32 horses you know and love plus an appearance from Santa.
Enjoy the 2025 Holiday Season: Merrier &
Brighter Than Ever Across East Tennessee
Dollywood
Smoky Mountain Christmas (November 1 thru Jan. 4): Voted America’s Best Christmas Event for more than a decade, Smoky Mountain Christmas transforms Dolly Parton’s Dollywood into a shimmering holiday dreamscape with over 6 million dazzling lights. Notice how each land tells a seasonal story through its unique and vibrant hues. Immerse yourself in holiday cheer with classic indoor stage showstoppers, like
family-favorites “Christmas in the Smokies” and “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” And, weather permitting, the “Merry & Bright, Holiday Light” fireworks set to music will fill the sky every Friday and Saturday night.
Gatlinburg
Your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains is made even more magical at Anakeesta’s Enchanted Christmas (November 15 through
January 5) where the beauty of the season comes alive with over a million sparkling lights illuminating the mountaintop! Delight in a variety of festive treats and seasonal favorites as you take a stroll on the hot cocoa crawl and cozy up by the fire pits.
The Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade ushers in the holiday season the first Friday in December, ringing in 50 years of family-friendly festive tradition. The award-winning parade will bring a cheerful procession to downtown Gatlinburg with festive floats, joyful marching bands, largerthan-life holiday balloons, and more, among over 1 million LED twinkling lights featured in Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Celebration.
Knoxville
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Fantasy of Trees (November 26 – 30). This holiday tradition is the hospital’s largest fundraiser, attracting nearly 60,000 people during the week of Thanksgiving. Travel through a forest of more than 350 beautifully designed trees, holiday accessories, mantels, door designs, table centerpieces and an Adopt-a-Tree forest decorated by local school children. All priced to sell.
Chattanooga Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights (November 14, 2025 –January 4, 2026. Closed December 24): Warm your heart during Chattanooga’s most enchanted holiday celebration. Experience Rock City Gardens as a nighttime winter wonderland. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season amidst the unparalleled natural beauty of this enchanted place. This uniquely festive light experience has become a beloved holiday tradition and is not to be missed. Tickets are timed-entry reservations and must be purchased online in advance. Tickets will not be sold in-person. Nights will sell out in advance. We recommend purchasing your timed entry tickets early for best availabil-
Winterfest
Dolllywood
A Thanksgiving Wish
ith so much ugliness and devastation happening in the world these days, it’s so easy to stay focused on those things and let it swallow us up. I’m sure you have friends or loved ones (or maybe yourself) who struggle; maybe it’s financial, or with health challenges, just to name a few.
So, in the midst of so much tragedy, we often forget that there is still so much to be thankful for. It is interesting to note that it was on October 3, 1863, at the very height of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln issued a Thanksgiving Day proclamation encouraging Americans “in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea, and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.”
This Thanksgiving, I pray you take time to count your blessings.
There is so much I am thankful for: my wonderful husband of over 40 years and business partner, Tim, and our fantastic son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. I am grateful that my mother is still with us and healthy (and enjoying East Tennessee SO much) and for all she has taught me. I am grateful to live in such a beautiful area. I am grateful for my health and for living in this country where I have the opportunity to own a business. I am so very grateful for our good friends and mentors, Tom & Judy Irmen, who always provide us with incredible support and encouragement. I am so grateful for our graphic designer and friend, Meredith, who always cheerfully helps us meet our crazy deadlines. I am grateful for all of our advertising partners that have put their trust in us throughout the years. And I am grateful for all of our readers that support our advertisers’ businesses.
I am thankful the first responder men and women who serve sacrifice so much to serve and protect us. I am thankful to be able to have the freedom to worship the Grantor of all of these blessings, and I am thankful for all those who have fought and continue to fight to preserve that freedom. Please, remember to thank and honor them this Veterans Day.
Our blessings are many, and I shall continue to count them. I pray this Thanksgiving you take the time to reflect on yours. Most of all, I am thankful to Our Father in Heaven – the Grantor of these blessings. From all of us at East Tennessee’s Mountain Views to all of you, we wish a very happy Thanksgiving.
Kathy Rose East Tennessee’s Mountain Views
Our PLACE 3rd Annual Walk 2 Remember and Car Show
Draws Crowds to Support Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
By DiaNe streVer for Our PLaCe
Walkers and car enthusiasts turned out in full force on Saturday, October 4th, for the 3rd Annual Our PLACE Walk 2
Remember and Car Show. The event raised critical funds to support adults and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias across Loudon, Monroe, and surrounding counties. Proceeds benefit the daily programs and therapeutic activities offered by Our PLACE Adult Day Center
More than a fundraiser, the Walk 2 Remember was a celebration of community, memory, and hope. This year’s Grand Marshals were Rev. Chris Harding, Senior Adult Pastor at First Baptist Lenoir City, and his wife, Kym. The couple participated in honor of Kym’s late father, Dave, a former Our PLACE participant who recently passed away from complications related to Alzheimer’s. The Hardings know firsthand the dignity, companionship, and respite Our PLACE provides both participants and caregivers.
Local car dealers joined in the festivities by selecting winners for the Manufacturer’s Choice Awards. Honorees included:
Tommy Ardon, 1969 Camaro – chosen as Top Choice by Garza Law, represented by Wendi Miller
Don Wood, 1965 Mustang – selected by John Baird, Lenoir City Ford
Rick Curtis, 1948 Plymouth – selected by J.C. Denney, Lenoir City Chrysler
Claude Marley, 1967 Camaro – chosen as Best Chevrolet by Loudon County Mayor Buddy Bradshaw
Attendees also cast votes by placing donations in buckets at each vehicle. The top selections were:
» 1st Place People’s Choice–Karen Connor, 1962 Corvette
» 2nd Place – Eddie Simpson, 1951 Chevy
» 3rd Place – Aaron Foshee, 1962 Volkswagen
» 4th Place – Rick Curtis, 1948 Plymouth
The Tellico Lake Rotary Club and the Lenoir City Rotary Club volunteered at the event, helping ensure its success. Sheriff Jimmy Davis and the Loudon County Sheriff’s Department added to the excitement with demonstrations featuring sheriff’s vehicles and canine skills.
Our PLACE Adult Day Center, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides a safe and nurturing environment for adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia-related conditions. The center also offers vital support and respite services for caregivers throughout the community.
For more information on Our PLACE, call 865657-7222 or visit www.ourplacetn.org
OurPLACE TN 103 Cheeyo Way Loudon, TN 37774
1st Place People’s Choice– Karen Connor, 1962 Corvette presented by Sarah Martin, Executive Director of Our PLACE
Tommy Ardon, 1969 Camaro – chosen as Top Choice by Garza Law, represented by Wendi Miller
Thanksgiving in Winnetka and Loudon
By Bo Carey
Our many readers who have lived in the Chicago area will appreciate this story about Thanksgiving a decade ago in The Windy City. My son John lived there, expecting a cold Thanksgiving alone, when his loving mother decided to fly north for the holiday. It was fall of 2016, so he wanted to “give thanks” for the Cubs winning their first World Series in his lifetime. She was about to fix a simple meal in the small apartment when a friend invited them to dine with his family. They envisioned a modest suburban house but were pleasantly surprised to find an impressive manse near stylish Winnetka.
After enjoying a lavish feast, the hosts informed them Winnetka was famous for the “Home Alone house,” site of that popular holiday movie where Kevin McCallister outsmarted the Wet Bandits. So, my wife and son rushed to join other tourists gazing at the colonial style landmark. I would have been tempted to approach the front door yelling, “Keep the change, ya filthy animal!” The church where Kevin and Old Man Marley had their heartfelt conversation was also located in Winnetka.
John Hughes, who wrote the screenplay, once told movie critic Roger Ebert “I’m going to do all my movies here in Chicago.” He did just that with Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Sixteen Candles, Uncle Buck and more. As a youth Bill Murray was a caddy at Winnetka’s Indian Hills Club, which was the inspiration for Caddyshack’s Bushwood Country Club. My favorite Hughes hit was the ultimate Thanksgiving flick - Planes, Trains and Automobiles, with Steve Martin playing Neal and John Candy portraying the sad but hilarious Del. The final scene, where Neal’s wife invited the down-and-out Neal to their Thanksgiving dinner, was shot at an elegant Kenilworth house on the edge of Winnetka.
My family has maintained special traditions over the years here in Loudon. Throughout our childhood, my father dedicated Thanksgiving morning to overseeing his four sons in a leaf raking marathon. The ultimatum was clear... before going up the hill to our grandmother’s feast, every leaf had to be gone. If you didn’t work, you didn’t eat.
Today our Greer, King and Carey clan gathers on Thanksgiving night to carry forth traditions other than leaf removal. Sometime between arrival and saying grace, one or two of the cousins sneak to the main table and rearrange the ceramic Pilgrims and Indians surrounding the centerpiece. The new configuration is a bizarre departure from the one depicted in that first Thanksgiving in New England. Our other unique tradition starts right after the last bite of pumpkin pie, when we strike up the band. Guitars, fiddles, mandolin, drums, piano and bass join together playing everything from movie soundtracks to jazz to bluegrass.
This year expect a throwback to the abovementioned suburb, a 1940’s Big Band hit which featured a bassist whistling the tune while the drummer tapped out a riff on the bass strings with his drumsticks. My brother Sam is a professional bass player known around Knoxville for his melodic whistling. Brother Bart is our drummer, so this tune should add to the Thanksgiving late night merriment. The name of the song is “Big Noise from Winnetka.”
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.
One summer long ago, a lanky bearded bicyclist visited our small town, his latest stop in a quest to pedal the U.S. coast to coast. Often accepting the hospitality of residents along the way, he had pitched his tent in the backyard of family friends.
Curious neighborhood kids treated him with the wonder and reverence due a New World-era explorer. He patiently spread his map on the ground and traced his route, stoking their young imaginations with adventurous stories of the sights and people he’d experienced, and the wonders still ahead.
The kids peppered him with questions: When will you reach California? What if your bike breaks down? Are you ever scared?
Asked about “the worst part” of his trip, he answered: “It’s traveling alone. I see all these beautiful sights, and I miss not having someone to turn to and say, ‘Wow. Do you see that?’”
That emotion is a metaphor of sorts for human life. We live our lives surrounded by wondrous distractions – people we love and who love us, memorable experiences and treasured possessions. In actuality, however, each of us has a tendency to travel alone. We may be surrounded by people and things that distract and comfort us, but we often exist alone with our anxieties, regrets and inner critics. Unless we really share, no one outside ourselves really knows our innermost worries, foibles and failings. We travel alone in this respect, and we meet our final breath the same way – alone in our thoughts.
So, it should be of great comfort to all of us that “traveling alone” isn’t necessary, because we each have access to a companion who truly knows, understands and, most importantly, accepts us as we are. He is a constant and permanent companion who can comfort, absolve, inspire and direct us.
That entity is Jesus Christ. Accept Him as your Lord and Savior, and He will instill you with his Spirit. It won’t mean your problems are over, but a relationship in Christ means you will no longer face this life regretfully, lonely and alone. He will have your back – here and in the hereafter. All you need do is turn and meet Him.
- Joe Roybal
First Baptist Church Tellico Village (FBCTV) is a welcoming congregation of believers wrestling with the challenges of life and family, and seeking renewal, comfort and direction. Pastors Dave Talley and Kem Lindsay invite you to worship with us in person or online Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit FBCTV.org for more information.
Pastor Dave’s Prayer: “Lord, as Your word teaches us, You are the “God of all comfort,”
Looking at Things from a Different Angle
By Pastor PhiL ViCkers
Recently, Tellico Village posted on social media some aerial footage of our community which highlighted the beautiful change of colors we are currently witnessing. I must admit that when the video appeared on my feed, my first thought was, “I wonder where that is.” Then I realized that this was my home community! It was just from an angle from which I don’t usually see it. In the classic film Dead Poet’s Society, an English professor named John Keating, played by Robin Williams, is trying to get his students to think outside of the box and see the world in a richer way. One of the many ways he does this is by climbing onto his desk. “Why do I stand up here?” he asks his class. “To feel taller,” one student responds, getting a laugh from his colleagues. “No,” Keating says, “to remind myself that we must constantly look at things in a different way. The world looks very different from up here. Come see for yourself.” At this prompt, the students take turns climbing upon the desk and viewing their familiar classroom from a new angle. This exercise was of course about more than seeing a physical room in another way. Keating was inviting the students to look at art - and their whole lives - through the lens of their own experience and their own soul. The scene has always reminded me of a favorite quote from Emerson: “Refuse the good models, even those which are sacred in the imagination of men and dare to love God without mediator or veil.” I hear in those words from Emerson the same sentiment that Keating was trying to teach. Get out there and see the world from the lens of yourself, from your own unique angle. Here in Tellico Village, we are largely a community of folks from elsewhere, and
comforting all who look to You so that we can also comfort others in their time of need. So, Lord help all who read this to turn to You, trust You, and find that You keep your promises, promises like “yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, You are with me.” Thanks for being with us, even in the darkest moments. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!”
inasmuch we bring a world of different experiences, worldviews, preferences, inclinations, commitments and passions. We all look on our world and community from our own angle. Sometimes this means we see issues from different perspectives, but I wonder if we might embrace this diversity and celebrate it rather than it being a cause for division. Everyone is not going to see things the same, but from a high enough perspective we see the beauty and pleasant order that God has set in place. Thanks be to God for different ways of seeing things, and that through them we might catch a fuller glimpse of God’s handiwork.
After all, what we see depends not only on where we stand, but on what we’re looking for. From ground level, life can seem full of small irritations and differences. But when we climb a little higher—when we allow ourselves to see from another’s perspective— we discover that the view is far more beautiful and complete than we realized.
shepherdofthelaketn.org
Get the Most Out of Your Kitchen
e
Wand
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essentials
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
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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
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.
work.
Once the project started, we worked closely with the Project Manager, Derek Miller. Derek is very responsive, knowledgeable and seeks to have the outcome the way he would want his own house to be built - and that comes across in his everyday approach.
Krisha manages the office and keeps you well informed of any deadlines you should be aware of. She is wonderful at getting quick answers to matters related to vendor reports or monthly updates. Cindy and I would highly recommend Keener Homes to anyone looking to build a custom home in this area. Our home gets several compliments from our guests and we are quick to let them
Keener Home.
November Is National Family Caregivers Month
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter once said, “There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.”
November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to recognize the incredible individuals who give their hearts, time, and energy to care for others.
Across the United States, more than 11 million unpaid dementia caregivers provide 18.4 billion hours of care each year. Here in Tennessee, caregivers contribute an astounding 675 million hours of care annually. Many of them are emotionally and physically exhausted, often putting their own well-being last.
At Our PLACE Adult Day Center, we honor caregivers throughout November— and every day. You can join us by taking a moment to show appreciation for the caregivers in your life:
» Offer a heartfelt “thank you.”
» Give a small token of appreciation.
» Provide respite so they can rest and recharge.
» Lighten their load with a meal, errand, or yardwork.
» Simply listen. Sometimes that means the most.
Together, let’s recognize and support those who give so much of themselves to care for others.
OurPLACE TN 103 Cheeyo Way Loudon, TN 37774
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elping others in need, whether with monetary donations, volunteer time, or charitable legacy planning, is a worthy endeavor. Consider these tips to maximize the tax benefit of your good deeds:
Rather than donating cash to your favorite charity, donate appreciated investments instead. Perhaps you bought stock many years ago that is now worth much more than you paid for it. If you give the stock to the non-profit, and they cash it in, they don’t have to pay the tax on the capital gain.
» If you are taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMD’s) from your IRA’s, and in turn writing a check to your church or charity, wait a minute! You need to know about the Qualified Charitable Distribution rules where the IRS allows you to donate your RMD’s (up to $108,000) directly to your non-profit and not count that RMD as income on your tax return. Who knew the IRS could be so kind? This is a great way to give yourself a charitable tax deduction that you’re otherwise losing out on if you take the standard tax deduction.
» Perhaps you would like to leave some money to your church or charity in your will. Great idea! However, instead of gifting through your will, designate your non-profit as a beneficiary on your IRA. Why? Because IRA assets are taxable as ordinary
income to your heirs, but not taxable to your favorite charity. Let your heirs inherit your after-tax investments instead.
» Or maybe you like the idea of leaving some of your IRA money to your favorite charity but hate to think of short-changing your heirs. One solution is to use a portion of your RMD’s and buy permanent life insurance. Then you can freely give that taxable IRA to your non-profit knowing that your family will receive a tax-free life insurance payout. Now everyone is happy! (Except perhaps the IRS) Tax planning and charitable giving is not just for the rich – it’s for anyone who wants to choose where their hard-earned money goes – to the government or to charities. And as always, ask me a question through our website and I’ll be happy to answer.
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.
Joseph Ribkoff Spring 2026 Preview at The Lily Pad Boutique:
Save the Date: November 13th, 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM G
et ready for an exciting and stylish event at The Lily Pad Boutique! On November 13th, we’re thrilled to host an exclusive Joseph Ribkoff Spring 2026 Preview featuring the entire upcoming collection. This special event will run from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, giving you the perfect opportunity to get a first look at the season’s newest arrivals, try on stunning pieces, and place your order for your favorite styles.
Why Joseph Ribkoff?
Joseph Ribkoff is synonymous with timeless fashion that perfectly blends cutting-edge trends with classic designs. Known for creating high-quality, sophisticated clothing for women, Joseph Ribkoff is a brand you can count on for impeccable tailoring, attention to detail, and pieces that transition effortlessly from season to season. The Spring 2026 line is no exception, featuring fresh and modern looks that are ideal for spring weddings, graduations, and all your special events.
Whether you’re looking for an elegant dress, a chic jacket, or a standout piece to elevate your wardrobe, the Joseph
Ribkoff collection is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and sophistication. Plus, with our sales rep on-site, you’ll have an expert to guide you through the collection and offer personalized recommendations to suit your needs and style.
A Perfect Time for Event Planning
With wedding season, graduations, and other major events on the horizon, now is the time to start thinking about what you’ll wear. The Joseph Ribkoff Spring 2026 line is filled with gorgeous options that will have you looking and feeling your best for all those special occasions. Dresses, two-piece sets, and tailored separates offer the versatility and elegance you need for any event on your calendar. Our expert team will be on hand to help you choose pieces that flatter your figure and match the tone of your event, ensuring you make a lasting impression. And with the full line available to view and try on, you’ll have plenty of options to find your perfect look for the upcoming season.
Get into the Holiday Spirit
But that’s not all! While you're shopping the Joseph Ribkoff Spring 2026 collection, it’s also the perfect time to check out our Christmas selection. We are officially in full holiday mode at The Lily Pad, with an array of festive party outfits and gift items to get you in the spirit
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.
STRETCHING
With the cooler weather, let’s take a few minutes to talk about stretching. As we age, we become less flexible and cold muscles are even less flexible. Take some time to avoid injury by stretching before you start playing.
If you arrive late to the tee box, then take some time to make 20 continuous swings, starting slowly and gradually increasing force and speed. I love continuous swings because tension starts disappearing, grip pressure starts disappearing so that the wrists can be free to hinge and unhinge, and the turn becomes easier. As you swing you are creating an effortless symmetry between backswing and follow-through, and the motion starts free-flowing with less tension.
Another stretch to do is just take a club and put it behind your head holding it with the right hand on one end of the club and the left hand near the other end. Begin to turn and hold in your backswing, turn and then your follow thru turn.
Stretch your back downwards and side to side.
On the first tee always remember: this is not the place to swing out of your shoes and hit your longest drive (especially if it is cold). Swing to balance in your finish position.
of the season. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect outfit to wear to a holiday party or starting your Christmas shopping, we’ve got you covered! From stylish dresses to cozy holiday sweaters, we have everything you need to make the season merry and bright.
The Lily Pad Boutique is more than just a store—it’s a destination for style and community. We pride ourselves on offering a curated selection of premium brands, exceptional customer service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Our team is passionate about helping you find pieces that not only fit your wardrobe but also fit your lifestyle.
Mark your calendars for November 13th and join us at The Lily Pad for an exclusive Joseph Ribkoff Spring 2026 Preview. Let us help you plan for the season ahead and find the perfect pieces for both your upcoming events and holiday celebrations. We can't wait to see you there!
Ivy Disney - Manager Brenda Bryan -
Sharon Lemelman
By Kalley CooK
We’ve talked about adult bald eagles in an article before, but I’ve never really spoken about juveniles. Fall-Winter is a great time to be scouting for bald eagles, especially the juveniles. In Tennessee, you can go to just about any dam and see a bald eagle if you just wait patiently. This time of year, the juveniles have left their nests and are migrating and finding their own territories, so you will usually see a big increase of them at dams. They’re also fun to watch during their juvenile stage. They can be a little clumsy and enjoy play-fighting with one another, which can be cute and quite comical to watch.
The only thing is, the juveniles don’t have white heads, so many people don’t even realize they’re looking at a bald eagle. Most think it’s just a hawk, which is easy to see why. Their dark, mottled plumage is important because it helps them blend in with their surroundings while they are still learning to hunt and are still vulnerable to predators. The juvenile appearance changes year after year until they finally reach adulthood around age 5 when they will then have their full white feathers.
I am usually aware of the birds in the sky when I’m out, and I often see bald eagles flying above me. From the Walmart parking lot or at my daughter’s softball game, bald eagles are around us more than we realize, and I hope this helps you realize you could be looking at bald eagles more than you think!
Contact:
Kalleybcook@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography
https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/
If you’re looking to purchase a piece from
such as a canvas, prints, magnets, calendars or coffee mugs for a gift for yourself or others, please reach out to me through my email. Thank you! kalleycookphotography@gmail.com
Having
Juvenile bald eagles can have beautiful markings as they grow up. I loved getting this one with its wings wide open. I would say this bald eagle is around 2 years old.
You might notice that this juvenile looks large, and that’s because juveniles’ wings are longer than those of adults which helps them navigate better and learn how to fly. This bald eagle is not even a year old yet.
Kalley Cook Photography
Is Your Storage Working for You?
Over time, your lifestyle, needs, and daily routines change. Job responsibilities shift, families grow and shrink, and habits emerge and fade. Starting with your kitchen, reassess what works for you today rather than 20 years ago. Evaluate your storage with fresh eyes - there are no rules, only possibilities!
Different Lifestyle
If your household is once again “just the two of us,” you may be en joying a much different way of life. Share time exploring new recipes, the latest appliances, and exciting culinary experiences with the bene fit of attractive and sturdy soft-close roll-out shelving and organizers. There’s a roll-out for nearly every need, including a utensil bin for your spatulas, whisks, and serving spoons, a magnetic knife organizer complete with cutting board, and even an appliance cabinet that comes with its own handy, retractable platform.
Different Needs
Do you find yourself straining to see, reach, and retrieve items in the far corners of your upper and lower cabinets? Stop struggling and add safety and convenience to your kitchen with custom storage solu tions. Upper wall cabinet pull-outs offer easy-to-view storage racks that glide open and closed. Heavy pots, pans, and skillets can be man aged with a soft-close pot organizer pull-out - with lids at the ready on their own convenient shelf. And a variety of corner cabinet styles gently rotate with the slightest touch, giving you access to every inch of space with ease.
Different Routines
Match the luxury of more free time with features that fit relaxing lifestyles. Leisurely mornings will go even smoother with a sectioned drawer to hold every flavor of K-Cup®. A drawer that separates sports bottles, thermoses, lids, and straws keeps everything organized for those visits from your grandkids. Custom wine racks with stemware slots provide access to your favorite varietal in time to catch that beautiful sunset. And plates can be taken off those high shelves and stored in a practical pegged drawer, close at hand for a midnight snack.
Updating is Easy with Shelf Help
As you evaluate your storage needs, are there areas beyond the kitchen that could use a refresh? It may be time to install gliding rollout shelves and organizers for instant access to laundry or pantry supplies, or to outfit your primary bath with roll-out organizers for brushes, blow dryers, and other hairstyling tools, or to update your built-in cabinets in the den with convenient gilding drawers to make albums, DVDs, and CDs easy to see and reach. Maybe all of the above?
The Shelf Help team is ready to walk you through every step of your home storage updates. We partner with our customers to re-think, re-tool, and revitalize their lives using creative and affordable storage solutions. We’re not a franchise but a locally owned and run small business based in Knoxville. This allows us to keep our prices up to 50% or more lower than that of national franchises.
Shelf Help
865.675.5098 | ShelfHelpTN.com
Sounds to be Thankful for this Thanksgiving
By Connie Ferraro – TelliCo Hearing SoluTionS
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on all the things we typically take for granted throughout the year. And that includes our capacity to hear.
While sight, taste, and smell are at the forefront of our mind during the holidays, hearing often takes a back seat—that is, until we begin paying greater attention.
To completely enjoy the holiday season calls for being fully present, and that includes being alert to all the sounds that in most cases escape our full attention.
Here are five sounds to be thankful for this Thanksgiving:
The sound of food sizzling – You can’t match the smell of roasting turkey filling the house, but have you ever paused to appreciate the sounds of a lively kitchen with food popping and sizzling and timers going off? With a house filled with hungry guests, you’re especially not going to want to miss those timers.
Conversations around the dining table – The holiday season is a chance to bring everyone together for stimulating conversation. You won’t want to miss any big news or humorous stories from the family members you rarely get to see.
Thanksgiving Day football – To the dismay of many non-football fans, the NFL
has somehow incorporated itself into the holiday traditions. But for the sports fans in the family, the sounds of the crowd, the big hits, and the eruption after a touchdown are difficult to match in intensity.
Thanksgiving Day parades – The sound of marching bands and cheering crowds in the background is an essential part of Thanksgiving Day. You don’t want to miss the cheer of Santa Claus at the end of the parade!
Holiday movies – Has anybody ever not eaten too much at Thanksgiving dinner?
After the heavy tryptophan-filled meal and lots of socializing, it’s nice to unwind, relax, and watch your favorite movies.
Unfortunately, hearing loss can eliminate several of these sounds. Missing out on important conversations, or not being able to hear the dialogue in movies, brings about stress and anxiousness that should have no part in the holiday celebrations.
It’s time to take back your holiday season—book your FREE hearing test today!
Idon’t know about you, but these beautiful fall days have had me planting, cleaning, mulching, and watering. I have to say, the results have made sitting out on the patio and drinking my tea a much better experience. I do, however, avoid looking at the 10+ plants that are still waiting to be planted. The ground is hard!
November is the month when it is very tempting to just push your gardening chores to the back of your mind until spring. The holidays are headed at you like a runaway train, and there are all sorts of projects that need to be done inside. But before you retreat indoors with your cocoa and catalogs and online shopping, there’s still work to be done - the kind that sets you up for a beautiful spring.
Put Your Garden to Bed
Think of November as the time to tuck your garden in for its long winter nap. That means cleaning up and amending the beds, evicting the ghosts of summer (like the annuals that are still in the ground), and covering everything in a nice mulch blanket.
In our area, the soil stays workable well into late fall, making it a great time to spread compost or shredded leaves. Yes, leaves. I don’t understand folks who rake up all their leaves and put them in a plastic bag then turn around and fertilize. Those leaves are the perfect fertilizer! The only thing you need to do is run over them with the lawn mower to chop them up, then you can leave them on the lawn or blow them into beds. If you had severe insect or fungal problems, however, you would not want to use those leaves as compost. You can burn or bag (paper please) those.
Planting Season Isn’t Over Yet
Yes, you can still plant! November is perfect for spring-flowering bulbs - daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths. You’re essentially planting a gift for future you. Follow instructions as far as depth goes and use a bulb planter or dibber to make your life easier. You may want to wait until after a rain so the ground is a bit softer! You can also plant trees and shrubs this month. The cool weather minimizes transplant shock, and their roots can quietly establish over winter. Just water them deeply before the first hard freeze.
If you haven’t planted pansies, go ahead. You will still
get some color this winter, and they’ll look beautiful in the spring.
To Prune or Not to Prune
Here’s the thing: Not everything needs a haircut right now. I know many of you are just dying to get your hands on some pruners or loppers, but it isn’t time. You can remove dead, damaged, or diseased parts of plants, but don’t go crazy. If you prune now, you may still get new growth that will be killed by a hard freeze. January is a better bet.
Most perennials and ornamental grasses prefer to be left standing through winter, and their dried stalks protect the plant crown and add beauty. (Plus, the birds appreciate the seeds.) These plants are also where our pollinators hang out for the winter.
Care
Lawn
Your lawn is starting its winter slumber, so you can relax - mostly. Give it one final mowing (about 2 inches tall) to prevent matting and disease.
We already talked about leaves, but let me say it again: Bagging your leaves is basically throwing away free fertilizer.
If you’ve got bare patches, scatter cool-season grass seed and a thin layer of compost before temperatures drop too low.
A Little Protection Goes a Long Way
If you have lived here long, you know that our winters can be unpredictable; balmy one day, icy the next. A nice 2-3 inch layer of mulch will help keep soil moisture and temperatures stable. No mulch volcanoes, please! Dramatic temperature drops may require covering or moving plants.
You also need to pay attention to all those houseplants you brought inside last month. Remember that inside air is much drier than outside, so consider adding a humidifier. I skip the fertilizer until March to let plants rest, but continue to monitor for insects and disease.
Now Entering Dreaming Season
Once everything’s tucked in, reward yourself. Step back, admire your handiwork, and enjoy a well-deserved mug of something warm. Your garden may look bare, but underground, it’s alive with quiet activity. Roots are growing, microbes are working, and bulbs are settling in for spring.
“Gardening in November isn’t about doing - it’s about finishing well.”
with John Howard from JH Health Solutions
Monday, November 17, 2025
Shepherd of the Lake Church Friendship Hall (Tellico Village) 143 Chota Ctr. Loudon, TN 37774 6:30 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm Program
John has a Mechanical Engineering degree with emphasis on metallurgy and is a Functional Nutritionist. He has been teaching people how to prepare healthy and nutritious meals without toxic chemicals for the past 51 years in Knoxville. Join John to learn about the dangers of forever chemicals in our environment and particularly in what we use to prepare our food! He will suggest 3 books for further reading.
Great Door Prize.
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.
www.CheoKnox.org
This Christmas, consider gifting a custom closet from The Tailored Closet, where precision meets elegance, and functionality harmonizes with style. Give us a call, visit our website, or scan the QR code above and play Santa this Christmas season! Embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season – a well-organized, stylish closet awaits, courtesy of The Tailored Closet.
Unwrap a More Organized Home: The Ultimate Gift This Holiday Season
The holidays are all about giving—finding that perfect something that brings joy, comfort, and calm to the people you love. But what if this year’s gift could do more than delight? What if it could make everyday life easier, more peaceful, and beautifully organized?
This season, The Tailored Closet of Knoxville invites you to think outside the gift box and give the gift of organization. From custom closets and pantries to home offices and entryways, their personalized designs transform cluttered, stressful spaces into functional, stylish retreats that bring order and inspiration all year long.
A Gift That Lasts Beyond the Holidays
Unlike traditional gifts that fade with time, a custom storage solution is a lasting investment in everyday comfort. Whether it’s surprising your spouse with the dream closet they’ve always wanted, helping a parent simplify their pantry, or giving your family a more organized entryway, you’re creating meaningful change that improves both home and lifestyle.
Each project begins with a free in-home consultation, where an expert designer listens to your needs, measures your space, and helps you visualize your dream layout using 3D design software. From shelving and finishes to hardware and accessories, every detail is tailored to your home and your style.
Closets That Simplify and Inspire
Imagine starting each morning with a closet designed just for you. With custom configurations, adjustable shelving, and dedicated storage for shoes, accessories, and seasonal items, The Tailored Closet can turn even the most cluttered wardrobe into a calm, organized space that makes getting ready a joy.
Pantries with a Purpose
A thoughtfully designed pantry makes cooking, shopping, and meal prep a breeze. Adjustable
shelves, pull-out drawers, and smart storage zones create order while keeping everything accessible. It’s the perfect gift for the home chef or busy family looking to start the new year with less stress and more space.
Home Offices and Multi-Functional Spaces
As more people balance work, school, and family life under one roof, efficient home organization is essential.
The Tailored Closet designs home offices, craft rooms, and multi-purpose spaces that maximize productivity while keeping clutter out of sight—blending form and function seamlessly.
A Thoughtful, Personalized Gift
Looking for a meaningful present that lasts? A Tailored Closet gift certificate offers more than organization—it gives peace of mind, style, and renewed appreciation for home.
This holiday season, skip the wrapping paper and give
a gift that truly transforms. Call us at (865) 777-0306 to schedule your free in-home consultation or visit us online at tailoredclosetknoxville.com to explore what’s possible.
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION The Tailored Closet (865) 777-0306 TailoredClosetKnoxville.com
The holidays are all about giving — thoughtful gifts that bring comfort, joy, and a little less chaos. But what if this year’s gift could do even more? What if it could help someone you love start the new year organized, inspired, and stress-free?
At PremierGarage of Knoxville, we believe the best gifts don’t always fit under the tree — sometimes, they’re installed right in your garage. Whether it’s turning a cluttered space into a functional workshop, creating room for a new hobby, or simply making it easier to find things, organization is a gift that keeps on giving. Here’s how our custom storage and flooring solutions can make any garage a space worth celebrating this season.
1. Custom Garage Flooring: A Foundation for Change A great garage starts from the ground up. Our flooring systems combine 100% solids epoxy with durable polyaspartic coatings to create a sleek, seamless finish that’s as tough as it is beautiful. Resistant to spills, stains, and wear, these floors are perfect for families who use their garages for
Our custom cabinets are built to fit your exact space and storage needs, from tall units for sports gear and tools to sleek workbenches for projects. Each is built for durability and style, helping you reclaim your floor space and keep everything neatly tucked away.
range hooks, bins, and baskets for seasonal items, tools, and accessories. This adaptable, wall-mounted solution evolves with your family’s needs throughout the year.
4. Bike Racks: Space-Saving and Adventure-Ready Have cyclists on your list? Our bike racks keep bikes off the floor and out of the way while making them easy to grab for the next adventure.
5. Overhead Storage: The Ultimate Space Saver When wall and floor space are full, look up. Our overhead storage is ideal for holiday décor, camping gear, or other seasonal items, freeing up valuable space below.
This holiday season, skip the ordinary and give something that transforms everyday life. With PremierGarage of Knoxville, you can give the gift of an organized, beautiful, and functional garage — designed for real life in East Tennessee. Schedule your free in-home consultation today by calling (865) 947-8686 or visit us online at premiergarageknoxville.com.
