Experience the Wonder and Beauty of the Cherohala Skyway This Fall
By Joseph Rose
Back in 1996, Tennessee got a brand new highway, in the form of the beautiful, scenic Cherohala Skyway. At roughly 43 miles long, the Skyway took a whopping thirty-four years to make and cost over $100 million. But if you’ve driven down it, you know it was worth every penny. The Skyway winds through the forests of the Unaka Mountains and the Tennessee River Valley, with gorgeous vistas, beautiful hiking trails, and mile-high overlooks along the way. If you haven’t gone before, you have to experience it for yourself.
Often referred to as one of Tennessee’s best kept secrets, particularly among motorcycling and scenic driving circles, the Skyway connects two verdant national parks: the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee and the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. In fact, its name is derived from both those national forests, with the “chero” from Cherokee, and the “hala” from Nantahala. Starting in Tellico Plains and running all the way to Robbinsville, North Carolina, the Skyway takes about two hours to drive and offers breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains as well as parts of the southern Appalachian National Forest few people get to see.
by
If you’re planning a trip along the Cherohala Skyway, there’s a few things you just have to check out along the way. First off is the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center at the very start of the Skyway in Tellico Plains, where you can find fun souvenirs, updates on local driving conditions, food, free maps of the road ahead, and, most importantly, bathrooms. You’ll probably want to take advantage of the bathrooms at least, since driving the Skyway takes about two hours to complete, with only a few signs of civilization or rest stops along the
way. Additionally, the cell phone coverage is limited, so those maps will be helpful as well. But along the way, the Skyway is practically teeming with opportunities for hiking, camping, kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, picnicking, and places just to sit back and take in the gorgeous scenic views around you.
With fifteen scenic overlooks, stunning vistas of up to a mile in elevation, and beautiful views of the local foliage, it’s no wonder that you’ll see vehicles of all
shapes and sizes: ranging from bicycles, to motorcycles, to sportscars, to motorhomes. Not to mention everything in between. Just be aware that the Skyway sweeps up and down through the hills and mountains, with its elevation ranging from 800 feet to 5400, with a few fairly steep slopes along the way. If you want to experience all this for yourself, you’re in luck! Though the Skyway has been closed for some time due
Photo
Kalley Cook
Continued
Summer is about to end, and fall will be here before you know it. Not only will the foliage start changing its colors, but temperatures start to dip. Children are back to school, and though it may be time to start transitioning away from our summer wardrobe, there is still an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Each season in East Tennessee brings its own unique beauty. Much of the lush greenery we so enjoy in the spring and summer is changing into vibrant yellows, golds, ambers, and radiant reds. With such rich scenery all around us, it’s no wonder that this is many people’s favorite time of year to visit this beautiful area we call home. We are blessed to live in this special corner of Tennessee.
Though the scenic beauty of East Tennessee is amazing, I think the people are what makes this area truly special. We are blessed to work with some absolutely amazing businesspeople featured within the pages of our publication. Labor Day is celebrated in September, and it symbolically signals the end of summer. Labor Day is a day that is dedicated to the achievements of American workers and the contributions they make to the strength and prosperity of our country and vital to our economy’s recovery. So, Labor Day serves as a reminder to celebrate and appreciate the American worker.
September is Suicide Prevention Month; each month more than 600 Veterans take their own lives. Many Veterans struggle with unseen wounds their entire lives. We and so many others are reminding Veterans everywhere that suicide is preventable and there is hope, but we know reaching out for help isn’t always easy. Please join me in praying for these Veterans and encourage those you may know to seek out the comprehensive resources at VA.gov/REACH. They can help Veterans manage their challenges before their stress reaches a boiling point.
Finally, I would like to mention a September day in our history: September 11th We at East Tennessee’s Mountain Views will always remember those that were lost on that fateful September 11th, 2001, those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as those that suffered loss. Patriot Day – Let us Never Forget!
Kathy Rose
East Tennessee’s Mountain Views
to damage from flooding earlier in the year, it’s going to reopen any day now (if it hasn’t already by the time you’re reading this). That’s perfect timing, since fall is one of the best times to visit the Cherohala Skyway.
Not only is the weather spectacular, with perfect temperatures, limited rainfall, and plenty of cool breezes to keep your experience as pleasant as possible, but you’ll also get to take in the beautiful autumn foliage. Driving through forests and valleys while all the colors are changing is an unforgettable experience. You’ll be surrounded by vistas of red and gold leaves as far as the eye can see, along with soaring hills, and plunging valleys throughout the entirety of your two-hour journey. The leaves in the upper elevations change first, usually around September, and the changing fall colors spread down into the lower elevations all the way into November. So, no matter what time you go during the autumn, you’ll find a gorgeous view waiting for you.
Along the way, there are plenty of activities and stops that you’re sure to love: At the start of the Skyway on the Tennessee side is the Tellico Grains Bakery, where you can pick up some food for the trip (they’ve even got wood-fired pizza if you’re in the mood).
Then take in the sparkling Bald River Falls, either from the comfort of your car or during a relaxing hike along the trail of the same name. A local favorite is swimming in the lake at the Indian Boundary Recreation area, so long as you don’t mind there being a bit of a crowd. Then there’s the Huckleberry Knob Trail at a head-spinning elevation of over one mile above sea level, where you’re sure to find some incredible views. If you’re in the mood to take in the beauty of God’s creation in nature, you might want to check out the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, where you’ll find old-growth hardwood trees, some of
which are more than 400 years old.
And that doesn’t even cover the campgrounds near the Indian Boundary Recreation Area in Tennessee or the Horse Cove campground nearer to Robbinsville, or all the scenic vistas and overlooks, or any of the other wonder’s you’ll experience on your journey along the Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway. Words don’t even do it justice. You just have to experience it for yourself.
Joseph Rose is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to East Tennessee’s Mountain Views. Joseph can be reached at pyrose17@gmail.com.
Photo by Kalley Cook
Ready, Set Go… Start your Engines!
By Diane stReveR foR Our pLaCe
Get ready to Rev Up and Step Off for a great cause at Our PLACE’s 3rd annual 2025 Walk 2 Remember & Kick’n Car Show, on October 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Lenoir City Park. Our event naming sponsor is the Garza Law Firm, and we have terrific volunteer support from the Tellico Lake and Lenoir City Rotary Clubs. Last year, several teams of walkers enjoyed their time together while benefiting Our PLACE participants and programs. There are one and two-mile walks. Imagine a fun morning with family or friends! Think about gathering your neighbors, book club members, golf buddies, or family to create a team! The team may be two or more individuals. Set a
General
fundraising goal for your team, with each member aiming to raise at least $50.00. The event opens at 9 a.m., with cars arriving for the Car Show, and the Walk begins at 10 a.m. Food trucks will be available for coffee and snacks.
Each team member who walks with a $30 donation earns a T-shirt. Team registration is due by noon on September 15th for t-shirt purposes to Brandi Johnson (865-657-7222 brandih@ourplacetn.org), Ginny Ranck (865-271-8101 ginnyr@ourplacetn.org), and Jean Clesen (423-519-6664 jmac2tds@gmail.com). Registration and donation forms are available at www.walk2remember.net/walk. Children 5th grade and under walk for free without a t-shirt. Pets can also participate and may be dressed in costume.
The Kick’n Car Show is expected to draw over 100 classic cars; to register for the car show, visit https://www.walk2remember.net/car-show, or contact Brandi Johnson at 865-657-7222. The cost is $30 to register a car and get a T-shirt, $20 without a T-shirt. Cars may begin to arrive at 9 a.m. Trophies will include a People’s Choice Award, as well as new Manufacturer Choice Awards for Ford, Chrysler, GM, etc. Remember to bring some extra cash to vote for your favorite cars!
The Walk 2 Remember & Kick’n Car Show provides opportunities for corporate or individual sponsorships, ranging from $250 to $5,000. Sponsorship level details and registration forms are available at https://www.walk2remember.net/walk. Our Walk 2 Remember & Kick’n Car Show, benefiting Our PLACE provides an excellent chance to have a great time while supporting a great cause and our program participants.
This valuable fundraiser provides funds for daily programming at Our PLACE and enables staff to plan special and unique experiences for our participants. Whether it was our recent Gorgeous Grandma Celebration, complete with makeovers and professional photographs; making individual Chocolate Cream pies for a snack; or sewing blankets for a non-profit, your support of our Walk 2 Remember helps provide opportunities to create more Moments of Joy
Our PLACE is an independent, 501 (c) (3) nonprofit that seeks to improve quality of life by providing a day program of social interaction, enrichment, and therapeutic activities in a safe and nurturing environment for adults living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Our vision, supported by you, is to provide the best independent, nonprofit adult day programs in East Tennessee. Please come walk with us on October 4th to help us provide more Moments of Joy in the lives of our participants and their families!
OurPLACE TN 103 Cheeyo Way Loudon, TN 37774
Federation of Woman’s Club
– Tellico Village 2025 Annual Home Tour
The owners of four Tellico Village properties have generously agreed to open their doors to the community to raise money for local charities.
The General Federation of Woman’s Club (GFWC) –Tellico Village, will host the 29th annual HOME TOUR on Sunday, October 12, 2025. The tour will include four lovely homes located throughout Tellico Village. These beautiful and unique residences will open their doors from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. A Business Expo and reception at the TV Yacht Club hosted by the GFWC-TV is included in the ticket price of $ 20. Tickets to the Business Expo only, at the Yacht Club, will be available the day of the event at the door.
Home Tour guests will enjoy light refreshments, participate in door prizes and visit with the 2025 Home Tour Sponsors to view available services and obtain ideas on home décor, landscaping, financial matters and much more. Attendees will have a day filled with fun, inspiration and valuable information while contributing to local charities which benefit our community.
Annette Quimper, Lynda McCoy, and Rhonda Masser are co-chairs for this year’s event which the club has hosted for the past 28 years. There is a dedicated team of volunteers who act as hostesses at each residence and help organize and produce the Business Expo and reception.
Home Tour tickets are available starting September 1, 2025, at the following locations:
» Sloan’s in Tellico Village
» The Village Salon
» Tellico Village Welcome Center
» Broadway Florist in Lenoir City
» Any GFWC Tellico Village Woman’s Club member or 100% of revenue from ticket sales is invested back in the community to local charities. GFWC-TV accepts applications from local organizations to determine how we can make the most impact in our communities with the dollars earned from this event. Some of last year’s recipients were: Child Advocacy Center, Iva’s Place, Tellico Village Fire Department, Tellico Village Library, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and Tellico Village Honor Guard.
The homes for this year’s tour include:
129 Canaly Lane
Welcome to this magnificent, thoughtfully designed lakefront home. This beautifully constructed residence includes 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and a dedicated office. Custom stained glass adorns the foyer and Great Room. A wall of windows in the Great Room frames sweeping
lake vistas and along with the screened porch offers the perfect setting for both relaxing and entertaining. The Great Room is adorned with a floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace and rich hardwood flooring. The kitchen, with its island seating and walk-in pantry, seamlessly integrates with a dining area through an open-concept design. A chic, blue palette throughout ensures a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The primary suite provides tranquil lake views, an expansive walk-in closet, a tiled walk-in shower, and dual sinks. The walk-out basement includes two additional bedrooms perfect for guests, alongside a family room, a kitchenette, and screened patio, providing gorgeous lake views. Throughout the home, you will discover remarkable artwork and the owner’s personal photography. The owners enjoy observing lake activities from their screened porch, particularly the adventurous silo jumpers! They especially appreciate the convenient access to their boat and jet ski, describing the area as a ‘camp for adults’!
401 Cheeyo Place
The perfect fusion of personal flair and practicality is on display in this incredibly chic home. The owners have turned this residence into a designer’s dream, highlighted by their distinctive style. Spanning 2,500 square feet, the home includes 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, efficiently using space while showcasing stunning interior design. The lofty ceilings, hardwood floors, plantation shutters, barn doors, and board-and-batten walls add to the home’s sophisticated aesthetic. The kitchen, which includes an island and seating, is designed in an open-plan layout, connecting seamlessly with the dining and living areas to create a welcoming space for entertainment. The primary bedroom suite reflects the owners’ careful attention to providing a peaceful and comfortable retreat. A muchloved spot for the owners is the entryway from the garage, which comprises a well-placed office, mudroom, laundry area, pantry, and a wide corridor leading to the upper level. This hallway is adorned with artwork that captures the owners’ travel. Each guest bedroom is beautifully styled, offering a cozy atmosphere. An enchanting feature is the ‘Harry Potter’ themed closet in the upstairs family room. The backyard is a secluded haven, ideal for unwinding and enjoying leisure time. This stunningly fashionable home shows like a model!
400 Tecumseh Point
This charming French Country Farmhouse, inspired by Mediterranean architecture, was originally modeled after a French design and constructed on the main channel in
2000. The current owners have meticulously enhanced the property while retaining its original charm. A two-story foyer welcomes you with Italianate beveled travertine tile that flows throughout the first floor. A wrought iron staircase leads to two upstairs guest suites. The dining room features a substantial table that can accommodate twelve guests. The first floor includes two offices and a master suite, complete with a spacious bathroom featuring a separate vanity area, dual sinks, European fixtures, and an expansive shower. The “chef’s dream” kitchen boasts an island with a stunning Jaguar granite countertop, a French antique white brass sink that complements the sink on the island, making clean-up a breeze. The Great Room has a 14-foot barrel-vaulted ceiling and an adjacent multi-purpose sunroom which offers year-round enjoyment. The back porch, accessible from the master suite, office, kitchen, and sunroom, provides stunning views of the lake. For added convenience, a tram descends to a middle-level terrace with a fire pit, and dock below. Don’t miss the Tuscan-style courtyard, and just through the garage, the bunkhouse. This property is bound to captivate!
231 Tecumseh Way
Built in 2023, this contemporary custom lakeside home offers breathtaking views and a striking architectural style. The residence showcases vast ceilings, graceful archways, and elegant hardwood flooring throughout. Upon entering the main floor, you are welcomed by an inviting foyer, a magnificent Great Room featuring a stone fireplace that extends from floor to ceiling and expansive windows facing the lake. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with a French door oven, a double-drawer dishwasher, a generous island with seating and a dining room that offers scenic lake views. A favorite area for the owners is the coffee/wet bar. The primary suite on the main level offers incredible lake views, a spa-like bathroom with a roomy walk-in shower, standalone tub and dual sinks with extended vanity. A screened porch expands the living area with panoramic views of the lake. The basement is designed for entertaining, featuring two guest bedrooms, two full baths and a cozy family room with a wet bar/kitchenette. An inspiring music room adds uniqueness to the property. The outdoor covered patio is ideal for social gatherings and is just steps from the boathouse. With its superior craftsmanship, entertainment-friendly layout and prime lakeside setting, this home is indeed a one-of-a-kind masterpiece!
For more information about the GFWC-TV, or to become a member, please visit our website at www.gfwctellico.org.
129 Canaly Lane
400 Tecumseh Point
231 Tecumseh Way
401 Cheeyo Place
The Massacre of Fort Loudoun
By Bo CaRey
Many have visited Fort Loudoun, replica of the 18th century British garrison. The historically accurate fort, welcome center and museum are located above Vonore, Tennessee on Tellico Lake. In the 1750’s it was in about the same place but along the Little Tennessee River, positioned between the Cherokee villages of Chota, Tanasi, Mialaquo, Tomotley and Toqua.
Up until 1759, these Indian villages had a friendly relationship with the British troops led by Captain Paul Demere, going back to their alliance against the French in the French and Indian War. This all began to change after about 23 Cherokees were killed at Fort Prince George in South Carolina. Eventually the Overhill Cherokees living in the villages along the Little T placed a siege on the fort, causing the soldiers and their families to ration food and supplies. Ostenaco was the Cherokee leader known for his desire to fight the white man rather than negotiate. Peace seeking tribal leaders struggled to keep the fearless Ostenaco from going on the warpath. Until this time, Ft. Loudoun inhabitants had been able to farm and hunt on Indian lands outside the walls of the fort. The hostilities were known as the Anglo-Cherokee War, lasting from February to August, 1760. Once the British saw that no military support was coming from South Carolina, they capitulated and sought permission to give up the fort and retreat to Charleston, South Carolina.
Terms of surrender required giving up all munitions, gunpowder and heavy weaponry. For this the Cherokee agreed to send some of their young braves along with the British families for the first night or two, helping them navigate the way, find food and make camp. On the first night, the Indians searched the entire fort, allegedly drank all the rum and discovered a buried cache of ammunition and gunpowder. Thinking Demere had lied to them in hopes of coming back to claim the hidden ammo, the Cherokees became enraged and decided to take revenge. By this time the British were encamped where Cane Creek enters the Tellico River, near current day Tellico Plains. At daybreak the Indians attacked and surprised their victims. They followed the old adage of “an eye for an eye” by killing 23 soldiers, the same number lost at Fort Prince George. Others were spared and taken as prisoners to various villages.
Historian Joe Guy has written a fascinating book about the entire siege and massacre, entitled “Indian Summer: The Siege and Fall of Fort Loudoun.” On October 19 speak about these brutal and historic events on October 19th at the Loudon County Historical Society meeting. It will be held at Trinity Methodist Church in Lenoir City, corner of C. Street and 3d Avenue. The presentation is at 3:00, and non-members are welcome to attend. More details can be found at the Loudon County Historical Society Facebook page.
Bo Carey is a 6th generation Loudon County resident with a passion for local history. He is the owner of Greer’s Home Furnishings in Historic Loudon and is available for lectures or programs for any area group or civic club. Call (865) 659-2300. bocarey95@gmail.com office 865-458-2046
Bo Giving A History Tour
Bringing Light to the Darkness
Kairos Prison Ministry Volunteer Celebrates 27 Years of Service
By sanDy hagan
For over 27 years, Loudon resident Sandy has walked alongside the incarcerated, their families, and prison staff, bringing hope, healing, and spiritual transformation through Kairos Prison Ministry International. July 24-26, 2025, Sandy joined more than 500 volunteers in Augusta, Georgia for her 7th Annual Kairos Conference—a gathering that fuels the mission and celebrates lifelong friendships formed through service.
Founded in 1976 by a group affectionately known as the “Nine Old Men,” Kairos began as a three-day Christian retreat in a Florida prison. Today, it serves nearly 500 prisons and communities across 37 states and 13 countries. Through its three main programs—Kairos Inside, Kairos Outside, and Kairos Torch—the ministry reaches incarcerated men and women, their families, and youth affected by the justice system.
“The prison environment is often dark and isolating,” Sandy shared. “Kairos offers a chance for those living inside to experience grace and community in a powerful way. We’ve seen gang leaders become peacebuilders and entire facilities shift toward hope and healing.”
Sandy serves with the Bledsoe Correctional Complex for Women, helping organize two transformative weekend retreats each year. These weekends, which cost over $8,000 each, are supported by donations and the tireless work of more than 30,000 Kairos volunteers nationwide.
Kairos Outside, launched in 1990, extends compassion to the female family members of the incarcerated, while Kairos Torch focuses on mentoring youth aged 25 and under. Through talks, prayer, and ongoing support, the ministry empowers participants to rebuild their lives and reconnect with their faith.
“We know we can’t change someone’s past,” Sandy said. “But we can walk with them into a future filled with hope and forgiveness. That’s what Kairos is all about—God’s special time.”
To learn more or support the Bledsoe Correctional Complex Advisory Council, visit kairosprisonministry.org. Donations go directly toward creating these life-giving weekends and expanding the reach of a ministry that’s changing lives—from the inside out.
Finding Comfort
Suffering – the state of undergoing pain, distress or hardship. It’s an inescapable part of life, though sadly some among us suffer more than others.
Suffering isn’t measurable, except in general terms (medical professionals often ask patients to rank their pain level from 1 to 10). Fact is, every afflicted person is different, and each of us has our unique threshold.
Suffering comes in two forms – physical and emotional, often experienced simultaneously as a result of each other, with the emotional often being more debilitating than the physical. Some suffering is self-induced by poor life choices that lead to tough consequences – risky behaviors, addictions, ill-fated relationships and associations. Other times, the root of our suffering comes from outside ourselves – congenital conditions, abuse, accidents, disease.
People react to suffering differently – it beats some, while others flourish despite it. But even those who overcome their situation always carry the physical and/or emotional scars.
Often, the difference in outcome is an inspirational person or opportunity. Suffering can be soothed in the company or by the counsel of others who have suffered the same condition. And, the presence or influence of someone or some entity often helps sufferers look beyond their plight to see brighter days and healing ahead.
We often hear folks give glory to God for their successes, but our challenges – even extreme ones – can be even more meaningful if we learn from them and use their lessons.
Does your physical or emotional pain seem too heavy to carry on your own? Consider turning to our Creator – He made us, watches over us, and can help us. In our weakness, God can be our strength. And through that strength and comfort from God, we can even help comfort others. As 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 tells us: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
The bottom line is that current suffering is insignificant compared to the glorious eternal reward that awaits those who have a relationship with Jesus Christ. God’s Word helps believers look beyond today’s challenges. Whatever we experience, God can be trusted, through Jesus, to carry us through it. Look to Him. Confide in Him. Peace both in this life and the hereafter will be your reward.
First Baptist Church Tellico Village (FBCTV) is a congregation centered on finding inner peace through learning and studying God’s Word. Pastors David Talley and Kem Lindsey invite you to come and worship in person or online on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit FBCTV.org for more information.
Pastor Dave’s Prayer: “Lord, there are many reading this article who are in need of your comfort. Please, meet them in their struggle and work in their heart so that they turn to You and find the only true peace and comfort available. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE
205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774 (865) 408-0110 www.fbctv.org
“…I
(Matthew 25:36)
Shepherd of the Lake Church
Sunday Worship with Holy Communion at 9 am Online or in person 143 Chota Center, Loudon, TN 37774 865-816-4756 www.shepherdofthelaketn.org
You can also contact Sandy at shagan39@bellsouth.net if you’d like to be a volunteer, offer donations, or have her speak at your organization. Checks can be made to: Kairos of TN – BCCXW, P.O. Box 1161, Lenoir City, TN 37771
You will receive a tax donation receipt at the end of the year for your giving.that come from God, we are rewarded in our hearts.
Taking Jesus’ advice is always a good idea. Go and do likewise! Go and neighbor someone in Jesus’ name.
Get the Most Out of Your Kitchen
We all want a beautiful kitchen, but a kitchen also needs to be a functional room where we cook, bake, and store essentials like food, supplies, and pots and pans. A functional kitchen has plenty of storage and is designed so you can quickly and easily find what you need and reach it.
ShelfGenie is a leader in making kitchens more useful
ShelfGenie designs, builds, and installs custom, glideout shelves that pull out the full depth of your existing cabinets and pantries to maximize usable storage and increase organization and accessibility. More shelves can fit into an existing cabinet or pantry, you can access the entire shelf front to back, plus each shelf is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship and can hold up to 100 pounds, so you can load them up.
Our process begins and ends with the homeowner
Our design consultant will get to know your needs during our free, in-home consultation. Together we will design a plan with your goals and needs in mind. The glide-out shelves are manufactured in our facility in Alabama to your exact specs. Our licensed, professional installer will then install your order in one day. Finally, your designer will come by on a follow-up visit to ensure you’re completely 100% satisfied.
Enjoy a more useful kitchen
Turn frustration with your kitchen into a joy. You can expect to increase your storage area by up to 50%, reduce wasted time looking for items, and avoid having to bend, twist, or reach into the backs of cabinets.
What our clients say
“ShelfGenie was the perfect solution to help me love my
kitchen again. The Designer and Installer were wonderful and took the time to make sure it perfectly fit my family’s needs.” - B.R., Knoxville
“We love the new shelves. They are truly life changing in the kitchen.” - R.K., Knoxville
“Great improvement to what I had and very happy with the people I worked with.” - S.O., Vonore
To learn more or to schedule your free consultation, call 865-270-5465 or visit www.shelfgenie.com.
ShelfGenie® 865-270-5465 www.shelfgenie.com
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.
Real Story, Real Success...
“Finally found someone I can trust to look out for my best interest, someone who has produced sound results and someone in whom I have con dence. I highly recommend Marsh Wealth Management.”
— Lenny G. Client, not paid
What the New Tax Law Means for Your Wallet
By yvonne MaRsh, Cfp®, Cpa
On July 4th, a major new tax bill was signed into law, and while the IRS is still working on the fine print, there are several key changes worth knowing about now.
First, the lower federal income tax brackets that were set to expire in 2025 are now permanent. That means your tax rates won’t automatically go up in 2026 as they were previously scheduled to—and that’s great news for planning. Whether you’re considering a Roth conversion or mapping out retirement withdrawals, it’s nice to have some longer-term clarity.
Another big win: the estate and gift tax exemption is getting a major boost. Starting in 2026, the lifetime limit jumps to $15 million per person (or $30 million per couple), replacing the scheduled drop to around $7 million. This gives families more flexibility with long-term planning.
Retirees get a boost too. From 2025 to 2028, anyone age 65 or older will receive an extra $6,000 senior deduction—$12,000 if both spouses qualify. This is available to you
There’s also temporary relief for those who itemize: the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap increases from $10,000 to $40,000, but phases out for higher earners and drops back in 2030.
And one more change that might surprise you: starting in 2025, interest on new auto loans for U.S.-assembled vehicles will be deductible—up to $10,000 per year, with income limits applying.
These changes could open up new planning opportunities—or new pitfalls—depending on your situation. If you’d like help sorting out how this might affect your retirement and investment strategies, I’d be glad to walk through it with you.
Marsh Wealth Management, LLC Fiduciary Registered Investment Advisor 504 Ebenezer Road Knoxville, TN 37923 865-622-2162
www.marshwealth.com
Matching Sets Are Taking Over Fall
Here’s Why We’re Loving Them at The Lily Pad!
As the leaves start to change here in Tennessee, so do our wardrobes, and this fall, I’m excited to share one of my absolute favorite trends we’re seeing everywhere: matching sets. At The Lily Pad, we’ve stocked up on sets that are not only stylish but also versatile and comfortable!
Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding or cozying up on a crisp weekend morning, matching sets are an effortless way to look pulled-together without the guesswork.
One of the most elegant options we’ve brought into the store this season is a black matching set adorned with pearls. It’s sophisticated, sleek, and absolutely perfect for fall weddings or any special event. The two-piece design allows you to mix and match with other items in your closet, but worn together, it’s a showstopper. It’s elevated without being over-the-top... it’s the kind of outfit that makes people ask, “Where did you get that?”
For everyday wear, we’re loving the cozy and casual side of this trend. Our Spanx AirEssentials sets are flying off the racks and for good reason. They’re buttery soft, breathable, and flattering on just about everyone. Whether you’re running errands, working from
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.
POSTURE
The next absolute necessity to build a great golf swing is the address position. This can be overlooked, but would you believe that when playing professionals get off their game, it is usually in the basics and that can quite often come from the address position.
Let’s start from the feet up. Generally, your feet will be parallel to the target line and shoulder width apart. There are 2 bends that are crucial; the bowing or bending at the hips and a little bend in the knees. This is an athletic posture that should feel like you are set to dive into the lake or ready to take off in a race. Weight will be evenly distributed on the feet. The lead arm is straight, and the trailing arm is relaxed. The hands for a right-handed player are at the inside of the left thigh.
One thing I hear a lot from players after a poor shot is “I lifted my head” or “I didn’t keep my head still.” Let’s be very clear and put a different spin on that: If your head moved, it is because you lost your hip bend or your knee bend!!!!! Golf does not rely on hand/eye coordination. A repetitive swing is built around learning to stay in your posture as you move and rotate.
home, or traveling, these sets make it easy to stay comfy and stylish. We also have sweater sets that are perfect for layering as the temperature drops. Think oversized knits paired with matching skirts or wide-leg pants... so chic, but also warm enough for those chilly Tennessee mornings. These pieces are ideal for brunch downtown or casual evenings out, and they can easily be dressed up or down with a quick change of shoes and accessories!
At The Lily Pad, we love helping our customers find outfits that make them feel confident and put-together. Matching sets are such a fun and functional way to do just that this season. If you’re in downtown Sweetwater, stop by and try a few on—we’d love to help you find your perfect set!
www.lilypadboutiqueonline.com
@shopthelilypad
Sharon Lemelman
IEast Tennessee Area Beauty: Butterflies
By Kalley CooK
have always been infatuated with butterflies ever since I was a little kid, but for some reason I never had the urge to photograph them – I just enjoyed their presence. This summer has been different, and I have been photographing them a lot, all while still enjoying them.
Tennessee has a rich diversity of butterflies with roughly 140 butterfly species. A few rarities have been recorded in the state on one or two occasions such as the Diana Fritillary and Baltimore Checkerspot. It’s really quite amazing once you dive into the world of our Tennessee butterflies; you start to realize just how amazing it is to have such beautiful butterflies all around us – yet they are so easily overlooked. The unique details and the coloring on each one are so beautiful. I think one reason I’m paying a lot more attention to them is because I have attracted many to my yard with the flowers I have planted this spring.
As many know, butterflies are so important because of the vital role they play in pollination. If you want to help them out and attract more of them to your yard, I suggest planting native flowers such as Goldenrods, Black-eyed Susans and Milkweed, which is so important to our declining monarchs that travel through. In my yard, I planted native flowers as well as Zinnias which have been hugely successful at attracting butterflies. I also suggest adding a shallow dish to allow them to drink water safely. Hope you enjoy just some of these beauties that have stopped by my garden.
If you’re looking to purchase a piece from Kalley Cook Photography such as a canvas, prints, magnets, calendars or coffee mugs for a gift for yourself or others, please reach out to me through my email. Thank you! kalleycookphotography@ gmail.com
you’re alread y starting to get overwhelmed. There are so many opti ons out there! You want your home to feel cohesive inside and out, but where to begin? First off, congratulations! It’s always exciting to be a part of new beginnings, and bringing your vision to life is what we do! That being said, here are some cons iderations to make before meeting with professionals when buil ding:
What Are Your Loves & Hates? - What do you love about your current home, and wha t do you wish was different? Write these down. You love that the morning sun comes in the kitchen window while you’re drinki ng coffee in the morning, but maybe you really hate the countertop in the kitchen. Analyze why and kee p that in mind. It could be the material, the mainten ance, the color and pattern, but all of it is helpf ul information moving forward, and saves you from m aking the same mistake again. New Home, Home Sweet Home or New Build, New You? - In a new home you can base your finishes and des ign style around your current pieces such as collections or heirlooms that you have, but you can also use this as a catalyst to start fresh with fu rniture and try a new style you’ve always liked. Th ere are pros and cons to both of these, and often our clien ts end up with a mix of both. One of the most excit ing aspects of design today is that every design st yle is achievable, so you don’t have to keep up with the J ones’s or just do what everyone else is. You can tr uly have a home that is uniquely curated for you. What’s Your Timeline? - One of the best ways to keep your home moving on a timely schedule is to have selections made before they are needed. We can help guide you through this process to keep your new hom e build moving efficiently, and we can also help pr event costly change orders or delays by avoiding reselection. What’s Your Budget? - Often the hardest question, but once you have thi s nailed down, everything else is much easier. What is realistic for your budget, and what features are cool but out of scope? Which lead s us to the next question. Forever Home, or Temporary Abode? - It’s hard to predict the future, but knowing if y ou’ll be in a home < 5 years or 30+ years can make a large impact on your home selections: most importantly on the amount of financial investment committed to the build, and ho w in-depth and catered to your interests the custom features in your new home will be. Regardless, it’s good to keep in mind that well thought out selecti ons throughout, and having character details in you r home, can help set your home apart in a market with more generic houses that all look the same. This w ill help your resale value and help your home sell faster. Ready to get started? Reach out to us today! If you have inspiration images or color palettes, we’re h appy to help you incorporate those into your home. We can also help select finishes, flooring, paint, counter tops, as well as, lighting, furniture, window treat ments, art, and more to achieve your style and
As professional interior designers, we listen and b ring your vision to life before the space is built, all based on your lifestyle but combined with our design expertise, giving you the confidence in your decisi ons to move forward.
desi red feeling.
What a stunning butterfly this is! This was the first time I had seen one around my yard, and I captured many photos of it. This one with its wings flat was my favorite.
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail - Most have probably seen these large yellow butterflies around as they’re pretty abundant, but no matter how many times I’ve seen them, they always amaze me every time.
Never have I seen this one in my life (that I can recall), and it only visited my garden for a day. Also, I never noticed we had white butterflies in Tennessee until this day. I learn something new all the time about amazing things here in Tennessee.
Get More Storage with Less Stile
By Carrie MCConKey, CarrieMCConKey CoM
Yes, you read that correctly… we didn’t misspell the word “style!” We were referring to the stile - the narrow vertical piece of wood that separates two base cabinets. It’s also known as the section that you are constantly reaching around to get things in and out and the part that makes storing and retrieving large or bulky items near-to-impossible.
At Shelf Help, we love to help our customers remedy this inconvenient kitchen occurrence. Like magic, removing the center stile opens the entire base cabinet interior to maximize storage space. And, by installing fully-extending soft-close drawers, your cabinets transform into a pleasurable and practical asset for your home.
This easy storage solution is one of our most popular. Below, we’ve answered some common questions regarding stile removal:
What will my cabinets look like?
When your cabinet doors are closed, your kitchen will look no different than before. Our installers make precision cuts to remove the stile, sand and finish the piece as needed, then re-attach it to your choice of either the left or right cabinet door.
What kinds of supplies can I store?
Crock-pots, stock pots, air fryers, mixers, bread makers, and more… anything can be stored on our heavy-duty gliding drawers - they support up to 100 pounds! We can also install vertical dividers to make cookie sheets, cutting boards, cake pans, cookware lids, and casserole dishes a breeze to retrieve and put away.
Will this be expensive?
We are not a franchise but a locally owned small business that allows us to customize our services and keep our prices surprisingly low. From start to finish, we work with you personally to evaluate, design, measure, and install.
You won’t sacrifice style when you remove your cabinet stile! Increase your home’s value and usability with this low-cost, easy
865.675.5098 ShelfHelpTN.com
The Birds and the Bees
By Connie Ferraro
Not those birds and the bees, silly, the real birds and the bees! Life is full of sounds that make each thing you do special. When I’m outside gardening - deadheading our flowers, watering flowerpots - the birds and the bees and I are sharing the same space. I love hearing the bees buzzing all around me and the birds splashing in the birdbath. I enjoy hearing them in vibrant detail. If I couldn’t hear them the experience wouldn’t be the same.
Hearing aids can deliver the power you need to fully hear the sounds of nature you love but may be missing.
The new hearing aids feature advanced technology that automatically adapts to various environments, effortlessly expanding your hearing range without any struggle. Remember, good hearing keeps your brain actively involved in the world around you in every situation inside and outside. From the moment you put them on, our hearing aids are designed to fit effortlessly and discreetly into your life and make each season come to life. Why miss a single moment?
The new advanced features of the latest hearing aids have technology that reduces background noise so you can focus on what matters most - your favorite sounds of the season, and the sweet sounds of nature. Also, conversations with your loved ones during
a backyard BBQ or inside at the dinner table. You don’t want to be sitting in the corner wondering what everyone is laughing about. Hearing loss can make social outings feel tiring or difficult. With hearing aids, you’ll have an easier time understanding the conversation and relaxing, not getting stressed out trying to join in.
Come in for your free hearing test, let us help keep you stay engaged with the world around you no matter what season it is. When you walk outside and hear those birds singing and the bees buzzing again, I promise you it will be life changing!
If you currently are wearing hearing aids and have questions about upgrading and want to explore the new features and technology, we’re here to make it easy. Just give us a call!
Call or email us today for your free hearing test. We provide flexible days and hours for appointments.
Tellico Hearing Solutions, PLLC 865-635-1887 contact@TellicoHearingSolultions.com www.tellicohearingsolutions.com
September In the Garden
By lisa GruGin
Surprise, I’m still writing the article! I was asked to continue for a while, and I am happy to still have somewhere to talk about gardening.
September will hopefully bring us some nice, cool mornings and evenings. These are great times to reevaluate your yard and make plans for next year. What would you like to do differently? Do you need to add some plants or remove some? Write down your ideas while they are fresh in your mind. Here are some other things that you need to do this month:
❀ Do your walk around and check into all the areas that you have ignored while it was hot.
1. Look up to see how trees are faring. Are there broken, damaged, or diseased branches? Do you have oozing spots, sawdust, or a lot of woodpecker holes? How about shelf mushrooms? All of these are indications that a tree is stressed and may have a disease or insect problem. A lot of trees have died this year, so call an arborist if you are concerned.
2. Look down at the ground. Do you have mole tunnels or small tunnel entrances that indicate mole and/or vole problems? Are skunks, possums, and other critters digging up your lawn? Has your lawn suffered from brown patch or other fungal issues? Do you need to amend your soil? Fall is a good time to do some lawn work!
3. Look around and down inside your plants to check for signs of disease and insects. How are annuals and perennials doing? What is going on in your vegetable garden? Are your shrubs showing signs of illness or infestation? Plants that have struggled may need extra help next spring.
❀ Evaluate your vegetable growing successes and failures. Make notes of what varieties you tried and where they were planted, then plan to “crop rotate” next year. This prevents the buildup of diseases in the beds. If your vegetable garden has stopped producing, clean them out and plant fall veggies. You can also add compost, manure, or leaf mold to improve your soil for next year.
❀ Take preventative steps if you have had serious problems with diseases and insects. Don’t compost leaves with insect or fungal problems and don’t leave them in the beds to overwinter. Leaves without problems can be left as compost.
❀ If your annuals look terrible, remove and compost
them. Impatiens and begonias in particular should be pulled before a frost, because they will turn to mush if they freeze. Swap them for cool season annuals like pansies, violas, snapdragons, ornamental cabbage, and kale. Swiss Chard can also add a splash of color.
❀ If you need to divide and/or transplant perennials, September is a good month to do spring blooming or fleshy rooted perennials such as peonies, daylilies, poppies, garden phlox, hostas, and iris. You can also cut back overgrown plants, but do not cut into the crown. That is the layer of new growth close to the soil.
❀ Purchase bulbs while the selection is still good. Keep them in a cool, dry place until it is time to plant them. The planting period here is late September through November.
❀ Get houseplants ready to come back inside by giving them a nice shower and treating them with a systemic insecticide. This prevents uninvited houseguests.
❀ Don’t be embarrassed by plant failure, especially if you are new to the area or are not an experienced gardener. It happens to everyone. Some things thrive and some don’t, so just roll with it and look at “failures” as an opportunity to try something different!
Let me finish with a little info on mums.
1. The colorful balls that you see everywhere this time of year are not perennial mums (which now have the botanical name of Dendranthema). They are hybrids, and they may or may not come back. They may also come back a different color or as dozens of little “mumlets” instead of a single plant. If you want to try to get them to come back, plant in the ground by mid-September so they can get roots down before a freeze. If you want an actual perennial, check your garden center.
2. Mums have a 4-6 week bloom time that is made shorter by heat and longer by cool weather. If your neighbor has a mum that lasts the entire fall, it isn’t real! There are early, mid, and late season bloomers, so buy them when you are ready and then compost them and buy another when they fade.
That’s all for this month. Happy gardening!
Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center
9885 Highway 11E, Lenoir City, TN 37772
865.986.7229
MeadowViewGreenhouse.com
For more than 15 years we’ve been passionate about improving the look, feel and functionality of your home. As whole-home organization specialists, The Tailored Closet can enhance every area of your home with innovative storage solutions that are tailored to the way you live.
865-777-0306
Has this ever happened to you? You are getting something out of your wire system closet and suddenly your clothes collapse on the ground in a tangled heap. Or all the items in your old wire pantry crash to the floor in the middle of the night.
A new house or an old one, many homeowners face a common problem: A premade wire closet system. Wire is inexpensive, but in the end, is cheaper always better?
While wire is certainly adequate and easy to install yourself, the non-adjustable hanging and shelving don’t utilize all the storage space available. Additionally, there’s a probability of an untimely failure.
We often receive calls from homeowners asking for a custom design after their wire pantry collapses, or they come home to find all their clothes dumped on the floor,” said Kathryn Norton, designer and co-owner of Tailored Living of Knoxville. “There can be inherent structure problems with wire shelving since the anchoring system is not sufficient to support hundreds of pounds of clothes or pantry items.”
A custom closet is not only more durable, it also:
» Maximizes Storage - A custom closet design adds 30-40% more storage space than wire or do-it-yourself kits.
» Fits Any Budget - A custom closet by Tailored Living doesn’t have to mean expensive. An experienced designer can help meet almost any budget. A simple design will still maximize the available storage space.
» Offers Adjustability - As your needs change, shelves and rods can be adjustedconverting shelves to hanging and vice versa - with no damage to the system or sheetrock. For kids’ closets and pantries, adjustability is a must.
» Provides Better Organization - There’s a place for everything, and everything has a place. No more emotional stress over feeling disorganized.
» Increases Home Value - Whether moving in a few years or not, professionally designed closets are high on the list of features homebuyers want. The amount of square footage a home has doesn’t matter as much as how well the space inside is used.
Whether classic white or a wood-grain finish, the difference is dramatic both in appearance and usability. Once you have a custom closet, pantry, or laundry room, you will never want wire again!
Join us Saturday, September 27th, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Christian Life Center of the Community Church at Tellico Village for a beloved fall tradition — the 21st Annual Community-Wide Garage Sale & Boutique, hosted by the Church Crafters and Loudon County Habitat for Humanity!
This lively event is your chance to donate, shop, and support families in need right here in our community. We welcome clean, gently used items — including clothing, furniture, housewares, books, yard tools, electronics, and sports gear.
Donation Drop-Off: Friday, September 26th, from 8 a.m. to noon at the church.
For large items, contact Evelyn Dinkgrave at (513) 833-4525 between September 2 and September 25 at noon to schedule a pickup. Please note: only flat-screen TVs will be accepted.
Every dollar raised helps build homes and hope in Loudon County through Habitat for Humanity and supports other local charities.
Location: 130 Chota Center, Loudon, TN
More Info: Call Kathy Blevins at (865) 408-3124 or Amanda Frangu at (865) 8160684
21ST ANNUAL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE
WHEN: Saturday, 9/27, 8 am – Noon
WHERE: Community Church of Tellico Village
130 Chota Center, Loudon
• DONATION DROP OFF: Friday, 9/26, 8 am to Noon at the church
LARGE ITEMS TO DONATE?
See article for contact info.
Loudon County Habitat for Humanity is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a worldwide Christian housing organization. All funds to build in Loudon County are raised locally to provide safe, affordable houses for low-income families who are willing to partner with Habitat. These partner families help build their houses and then buy them from Habitat through an affordable mortgage. Funds from these mortgages go into a Fund for Humanity which allows Habitat to build other houses.
Fall Into a More Functional Garage Space
As the vibrant colors of fall begin to paint the landscape, it’s the perfect time to prepare your garage for the upcoming season. For more than 15 years, PremierGarage of Knoxville has been at the forefront of providing high-quality, custom garage cabinetry designed to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space.
The fall season brings a natural shift in activities, from summer sports and outdoor fun to preparing for colder weather and holiday gatherings. This transition makes it an ideal time to rethink your garage’s organization. Our custom garage cabinets offer the perfect solution to keep everything in its place, giving your garage a uniform and inviting look while maximizing storage space.
Imagine incorporating upper and lower cabinets with drawers specifically designed to organize your sports gear, tools, lawn care items, car cleaning products, and even holiday decorations. Our custom garage cabinetry can be tailored to fit your unique needs, with features like baskets, drawers, and cabinet dividers, making it easy
to store and access everything you need as the seasons change.
One of the key benefits of our custom garage cabinets is the fully enclosed storage space they offer. As the weather cools, it’s essential to protect your belongings from dust, pests, and fluctuating temperatures. Our cabinets keep your items safe and secure, providing peace of mind that your investments are well-protected.
Additionally, safety is a significant concern in any garage, especially with children and pets around. Our cabinets are the perfect solution for keeping harmful liquids, sharp tools, and other dangerous items out of reach. Our custom cabinets not only offer superior organization but also enhance the safety of your garage, ensuring it’s a space the whole family can enjoy.
This fall, you can also personalize the look and feel of your garage with a variety of more than 25 available finishes. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic or something more traditional, our professional installation
team ensures that your garage storage solutions are as sturdy as they are stylish, capable of holding your heaviest belongings with ease.
As you prepare for the season ahead, consider the transformative impact that our custom cabinetry can have on your garage. With a free in-home consultation, we can help you design the garage of your dreams, tailored to your needs and ready to support your lifestyle through every season. Let us guide you in creating a space that is not only functional but also a true extension of your home, reflecting your style and ensuring everything is in its place as the leaves begin to fall.
Give us a call today at (865) 947-8686 to schedule your free in-home consultation and let’s see what’s possible for your space!
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION PremierGarage (865) 947-8686 PremierGarage.com
