East Tennessee's Mountain Views March 2024

Full Service Real Estate Brokerage

Alot has changed since we first interviewed Sam and Randi about Allen Realty (way back in December of 2021 if you can believe it). That’s true both in business and in life. For one thing, Sam has a new business partner, Amy Tatro. For another, they have a full property management division now, and we’re excited to introduce you to that side of their company. But the talent and commitment Allen Realty brings to the table certainly hasn’t changed.

Sam Allen and his wife, Randi, founded Allen Realty to give their clients a satisfying experience personalized to each of their clients in the home sale, purchasing, and property management journeys. Both husband and wife love the real estate business almost as much as they love East Tennessee. And, with real estate in his blood, Sam is driven to provide top-notch services to every one of his clients.

Joining them at Allen Realty is Sam’s new partner, Amy Tatro. Like Sam, she loves what she does and wants nothing more than to provide her clients with the best real estate services on the market. She always strives to be the best agent she can be for every client she takes on.

Together, with their professional knowhow, cutting edge technology, and boundless enthusiasm, they’re sure to help both buyers and sellers have a satisfying real estate experience. More than that, their

property management services and skills are second to none.

We sat down for an interview with both Sam and Amy to introduce them and give you a sense of the services they can offer.

MV: Tell us a little bit about yourselves. Why don’t you go first, Amy?

Amy: Well, I grew up in the small town of Sylva, North Carolina. Then I made my way to Lynchburg, VA to study at Liberty University. I ended up meeting my wonderful husband there and not long after we married, we moved to Maryville in 2015. It’s been great being just a short distance to my family in NC and still having the Smokies in our backyard to go hiking and mountain biking.

MV: What led you to become a realtor?

Amy: I’ve always had a servant’s heart, and I really like the financial aspect of clients building wealth through real estate. I could talk budgets all day. I’ve bought and sold myself, and each one taught me something new; I knew I wanted to share the knowledge I had learned. Whether it be an investment property or primary residence, I want to set my clients up for success.

MV: What about you, Sam?

Sam: Business has been great. We’ve really been doubling down on our property management services. Of course, we still love to help buyers and sellers as well. We’re not giving up on that. But we’ve had such great success helping people buy these great investment properties and then finding the perfect renters to move into that same property. It’s such a fulfilling experience.

MV: Sam, your wife, Randi, was pregnant when you did your first feature with us. How has becoming a father changed how you do business?

Sam: Yep! We have a 2-year-old son, Tate, and he’s awesome! I think what’s changed the most for me is this overwhelming sense of responsibility now that I’m a dad. That sense of responsibility I feel for Tate carries over to my clients as well. If I do a good job by them, then I’m doing a good job for Tate. Also, I’d like to

think I’m not quite as selfish!

MV: What would you say makes Allen Realty special when it comes to property management?

Amy: Sam likes to say that we’re a boutique real estate firm. That means we don’t just take a one-size-fits-all approach. We go out of our way to create a personalized experience for our clients. We’re incredibly meticulous about that. And that really factors into property management as well.

Sam: That’s right. We know the property. We know what it’ll rent for, what sort of renters it’s likely to attract, which locations will rent quickly, and which ones are best suited to bring in the most money. And we can set you up with a property that’s just right for you. It’s important for us to take the time to know you and exactly what you’re looking for, so we can find the right fit. We’re know and serve the whole area; of course, Loudon and Monroe Counties, but also Blount County and Knox County.

Amy: We’re a one-stop shop too. We don’t just help you buy the right place, but we recommend what should (or should not) be done to the property for you to get the biggest return. And we can manage it for you too! We take pride in our ability to find the best renters, keep the property in pristine condition, and help you figure out how to maximize rent and your return on investment. When you do business with us, we’ll always go the extra mile for you.

We do business in Loudon and Monroe counties as well as Blount County and Knox County.

MV: You like to mention the high-quality photos you provide your clients for the properties. Are those helpful in property management as well?

Sam: Of course. Most others tend to use cell phone pictures. If we’re being honest, that can tell you what a property looks like, but it can’t give you a sense of the place. How big it is. What it feels like to be in the space. But we get the best photographers and videographers, perfectly capturing the essence of every

ALLEN REALTY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES:

» Advertise on every major website, including the MLS with professional photos.

» Pay referral fees to realtors.

» Schedule and coordinate showings.

» Screen potential tenants using background and credit checks.

» Prepare the lease agreement.

» Help make sure the tenant has a smooth move in.

» Handle all repair requests and assist with any questions the tenant may have.

» Coordinate repairs and handle all vendor payments.

» Ensure cleaning crews, handymen, painters, plumbers, etc., are ready at all times.

» Handle all rental related accounting.

» Direct deposit rent to owner’s account each month.

property. That’s not just important for buying or selling a home. If you’re buying an investment property and plan to rent it out, it’s vital that you know exactly what you’re getting, and that you know we can sell it to your future renters as well.

MV: Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us. Anything else you’d like to add?

Amy: All of us at Allen Realty love our jobs, and we’re excited to serve you!

Sam: That love affects everything we do. This is our calling in this life. We look forward to working with you soon.

Allen Realty 1028 Highway 411 Vonore, TN 37885 865.770.9256

https://www.AllenRealtyTN.com

https://www.facebook.com/ AllenRealtyTN

From Left to Right: Noah Woolsey, Jared Armbruster, Jeremy Stephens, Tim Krantz, Stacy Drake, Jeff Shaw, Terri Click Sloan, Sam Allen, Amy Tatro & Gene Best (Not pictured: Kristy Powers, Candace Underwood, and Carrie Selley)

Partners Sam Allen and Amy Tatro

Outdoorsman

TN NTL, views of the golf course.

Great UNRESTRICTED building lot in Loudon County. 1.89 acres. 11424 E. Watkins Rd. Loudon, $69,000 Zach Miller, 865-224-1396

Don’t

SWpring is almost here! We hope.

When I wrote last month’s letter, we were still surrounded with snow. As I write this, I’m sitting on my back deck, the sun is shining, there’s a beautiful blue sky, and it’s a comfortable 62 degrees.

March is often thought of as the time of transition into Spring. We hope. We’re often told not to get our hopes up, because January through March (and sometimes April) in East Tennessee is characterized by a back and forth progression of Winter weather, then Spring type weather. And this repeats multiple times. I don’t know if we’ve gotten past our 2nd or 3rd “winter” yet, but right now it feels like Spring. People from the area often tell me, “It’s a false Spring. Winter will likely return soon.” So, don’t get your hopes up, remember it’s probably a false Spring. It’s a false hope.

So, even though by this time of the year, we’re READY for winter to end and look forward to Spring - when life springs forth just about everywhere you look, and the decay that once was is renewed – be careful not to buy into the false hope.

But you know what isn’t a false hope? The hope there is in Jesus.

Remember to set your clocks to SPRING forward –Sunday, March 10th

Easter is just around the corner: March 31st. Easter is a time when we remember the sacrifice Jesus made, celebrate his resurrection, and remind ourselves about his incredible mercy. Easter commemorates the renewal in our own lives and the hope of eternity we have in heaven with Jesus.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16 ESV

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8

I pray you have a blessed Easter and take the time to meditate on all that God has done for us!

Kathy Rose

East Tennessee’s Mountain Views

The Moonstone Manor can be built for you in the prestigious Kahite golf course community at 147 Sikwa Trail. This is

spectacular new and modern home design that will be built with more luxury features than you can imagine – all included (personal changes/modifications are welcome). In Kahite you’ll enjoy an outstanding golfing and boating lifestyle that includes maintained golf cart trails running throughout the community. The trails will take you from your home to the clubhouse or the marina in just minutes.

For Sale at 147 Sikwa Trail on a very private (over ½ acre), level and cleared lot bordering large common areas.

Only$759,900.00 with 3-car garage

Only$779,900.00 with 4-car garage

This expansive 2,386 sq. ft. home, with a very large 3 or 4-car garage will be built for you on our significantly oversized lot in Kahite. This home offers 3 garage bays, but you can add a 4th bay for your boat, trailer, any motorized “toys,” or as a workshop. If you want a “drive-through” garage, the 4th bay can accommodate that request.

This

Lakeshore

TM

• Modern

• 2-car

• Hardwood

• Granite

• Breakfast

• Oversized

• Good

• Laundry

• Covered

Built on your “builder-ready” lot, Only$479,900.00*

This professionally custom-built lot/home package with a “walk-in” lower level can be built on our exceptional cul-de-sac lot at 306 Gado Trace in beautiful Tellico Village, Only$529,900.00*

Sunrise Ridge Floor Plan

This is what everyone has been asking for: an 1,814 sq. ft. plan that has it all!

3RD Annual Drug Take Back Day

The Tellico Community Foundation is hosting its 3rd annual Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27th from 10:00 a.m.– 2:00 p.m. Sheriff’s deputies will be on hand at both the Tellico Village Welcome Center, located at 202 Chota Road, in Loudon and the Tellico Village Kahite Neighborhood Clubhouse at 400 Kahite Trail, in Vonore. The public is invited to bring expired or unwanted prescription drugs and over the counter medication for safe disposal by the Loudon/Monroe County Sheriff’s office.

“The Tellico Community Foundation is proud to promote the DEA Drug Take Back Day as a service to our community. The presence of unneeded medications in our homes is a danger to ourselves, and to family and friends who visit our homes. By safely disposing of these medications at Drug Take Back Day, we are removing that potential harm, improving public and safety, protecting our environment and others, and doing our part to reduce drug-related violence.” - Marsha Kaiser, TCF Chairperson.

About Tellico Community Foundation

Since 2017, the Tellico Community Foundation fund has contributed approximately $300,000 to nonprofits serving Loudon and Monroe Counties. The mission of the fund is to enrich the Loudon and Monroe County communities by funding programs and projects that provide support for seniors and promote healthy childhood development. The Tellico Community Foundation fund is an affiliate fund of East Tennessee Foundation.

To learn more or to become involved: www.tellicolife. org/tellico-community-foundation.

Tellico Foundation - Focused on the needs of Childhood Development and Senior Support In Loudon and Monroe Counties.

“If you are

who

want to

“BBack in 2020, I purchased a lot in Tellico Village and was in need of a builder. I knew just a little about the area but good fortune led me to Keener Homes, Inc. Kit Keener, his project manager and his network of sub-contractors could not have been more helpful. I lived 700 miles away; the home was built during the heart of Covid; the home design was not typical for

said,

building process. Kit and his team built a wonderful

As we move forward in 2024, we celebrate recent triumphs achieved for our valued real estate clients. In the preceding weeks, we’ve secured numerous accomplishments, a glimpse of which is shared here. Boasting a collective experience surpassing 350 years, our adept agents bring unparalleled expertise to navigate any real estate scenario. Let us help you find success in your real estate goals.

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MLS#

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He’s Alive!

Yes, Jesus is alive! The grave could not hold Him. Can you imagine having a loved one die and days later be raised from the dead? Your tears of grief would instantly turn to tears of joy. Your heart would overflow with jubilance. Yes, Jesus is alive, even today. And He has shown us a better way to live. A way to bridge the differences between one another and build healthy relationships. Yes, the living Jesus can bring peace and unity to a troubled family as well as our troubled world.

At First Baptist Church of Tellico Village, we are preparing for Palm Sunday and Easter to celebrate Jesus’s victory over death. Pastor David Talley is leading us with an in-depth study of the book of Acts. The early Church began right after Jesus’ Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven on the day of Pentecost and the Church is still growing though out the world today.

Here at First Baptist, we try to make everyone feel at home. We have always been known as a friendly church caring for the needs of our members and guests. On Easter morning, we will hold a ‘Son-rise’ service at 7:30 AM, followed by a light breakfast and a 9 AM Worship service. On Wednesday evenings, we serve a wonderful fellowship dinner and guests are welcome. Call the Church office for details about Easter morning and our Wednesday dinners at 865-408-0110.

If you are looking for a church home, come and worship with us as Pastor Dave teaches us about ‘Acts of the Apostles’ and shares the Words of Jesus. Enjoy a worshipful experience with our music and worship team that includes choir and orchestra. Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples, and we take that charge quite seriously. Under the leadership of Associate Pastor Kem Lindsay, we offer several adult Bible study options. Sunday Worship services are 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM with adult Bible study options available at the same times as well as during the week. For more info visit FBCTV.org.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE 205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774 (865) 408-0110 | www.fbctv.org

Why We Serve

By Steve Dormer

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are at least attempting to.

of

As an outsider moving into this area from the New York metropolitan area about four years ago, I can tell you that things are different here. I’ve experienced an intentionally gracious culture and a strong sense of community that is impressive to a newcomer. It’s not that there wasn’t graciousness and communal spirit where I came from, it’s just that it is so front and forward in what I’ve observed of the culture in Eastern Tennessee.

Our church is active in outreach, supporting dozens of organizations, most regional, but some national and even international.

The residents of Tellico Village, who come from all over the country, have brought their own sense of community service to the region while building on that existing East Tennessee spirit. In our Village, there are scores of organizations and activities focused on giving back by contributing to or being of service to local and regional needs. All the local Churches have significant outreach ministries and service clubs like the Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs as well as many private service clubs are engaged in activities that meet identified needs in our immediate area. It seems like there is something going on every day.

In order to assist these organizations and to provide co-ordination as necessary, a committee was formed several year ago named, “Tellico Working Together.” The membership consists of representatives from the churches and the various service organizations as well as members from the local Family Resource Centers. The latter help identify needs - particularly for food and clothing - for local students and their families. The committee may lead particular efforts in this regard or seek participation from churches or service organizations. This allows us to respond quickly and broadens the base of potential donors and/or volunteers for each particular need. Our member organizations have well defined missions and organizational strength of their own. Nevertheless, we all benefit in sharing information about our activities and learning about the results of our efforts.

I am a member of the Tellico Working Together Committee representing my congregation, Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church. Our church is active in outreach, supporting dozens of organizations, most regional, but some national and even international. Our outreach arises organically from the activities of our membership and a great deal of our volunteering and giving is focused on needs in our neighboring communities. Our members like to be engaged in and give to a wide variety of social needs. Tellico Working Together helps us to identify where the needs are and lets us know ways in which we may help. This kind of engagement is natural for us. Our faith and understanding of scripture informs our commitment to service. Maybe the maker of the entrance signs read the same Book.

Jesus Celebrate his Resurrection

Palm Sunday March 24th

Worship & Bible Study 9:00 & 10:30 am

Good Friday March 29th

Tenebre Worship & Communion 7:00 pm

Easter Sunday March 31st

“The Son Has Risen” service 7:30 am

Breakfast 8:00 am

Join us for Worship at 9:00

First Baptist Church of Tellico Village 205 Chota Road, Loudon,TN 37774 865.408.0110

shepherdofthelaketn.org

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leaving you no room for essentials like toilet paper and tissues. With a two-tiered pull-out shelving system, you can maximize your storage and easily find what you need.

3. Declutter and find more space for your pots and pans. Are you frustrated with the way you store your pots and pans? Most people get frustrated looking in their cabinets for the right size pot and matching lid. With pull-out shelving, you can easily arrange your pots, pans, and lids so you can access them quickly when cooking.

4. Make better use of corner cabinets. Most kitchens have a corner cabinet that has dead space that is often hard to access. With a unique pull-out solution for corner cabinets, you can add more storage space in your kitchen. It’s a cost-effective way to use the space you already have without adding to the footprint of your kitchen. You may not be able to redesign your whole kitchen, bathroom, or pantry at this time, but you can ease your frustration by working on smaller projects that will have lasting impacts throughout the new year!

ShelfGenie® 865-270-5465

www.shelfgenie.com

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Expansion Started for Our PLACE!

By Diane Strever anD Celia GruzalSki for OurPlaCe tn

This new year brings new leadership to Our PLACE, and the expansion of our facility began on February 15th at 103 Cheeyo Way. The expansion, which is expected to be complete by May 15th, will provide additional square footage to create a more cohesive program and more space for participants.

On February 1st, Sarah Martin was named the Executive Director of the program, formerly having been in the role of Activities Manager. Sarah shares her love of the participants and families openly, and feels it is where she is meant to serve. She moved to TN from California, where she had worked with a similar population. She was encouraged to apply for her previous position at Our PLACE by a couple she met at a Lenoir City football game. After hearing what she did in California, they told her they knew of a great job position that would be perfect. That led Sarah to the program, and she joined the staff in time for the opening in March 2022.

Sarah’s goal is to have the participants and their families continue to feel cared for in a warm, homelike community, and that outlook is reflected in the staff and volunteers as well. As the building expansion begins, she will focus on allowing time for the participants and staff to stabilize, provide continuity, and feel safe. Sarah recently made a presentation about Our PLACE and its program to the local 100 Women Who Care Foothills

Chapter. The membership voted to award $15,000 to Our PLACE! The staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers thank the 100 Women Who Care on behalf of the participants and their families. Sarah hopes after the expansion is completed that some of those funds could be used to offer opportunities for occupational therapy and functional activities, such as folding laundry, creating routines, or sorting different items. It also would provide an area of respite for those participants who occasionally need a place away from others to calm down or refocus. We are looking forward to the new expansion and Sarah’s vision to enhance the existing program.

Our Moment of Joy individual this month is Frank, who attends Our PLACE three days a week. He and his wife Ruth moved to Tennessee in 2006 from Annapolis, MD. He and Ruth met at a YMCA dance in Brocton, Mass, and the romance has remained for 53 years! Ruth and Frank have four children and four grandchildren, and Ruth worked as a Reference Librarian at the Naval Academy and as a librarian in Bridgeport, CT.

Frank received the Bronze Star Medal for his service in the Korean War with the Army Medical Service Corps, and recently received the “Ambassador of Peace” Medal from the Korean Government, given locally by the American Legion. Among many positions, Frank was a professor of social sciences, and was promoted to a Deanship at Delhi University in Delhi, New York. He was involved in accreditation and administration at Delhi.

Frank suffers from vascular dementia, and Ruth noticed he was bored and uninterested at home. Their two daughters encouraged them to check out Our PLACE after they attended an Open House. Since enrolling in the program, (Veterans Benefits help with the cost) Frank is very comfortable in the program. He feels he has friends there, can be himself, and enjoys the activities, such as the therapy dogs, music groups, and puzzles. He also is more communicative at home and will play games or do puzzles with Ruth. Frank’s days in the program allow Ruth the time to enjoy her passion - painting (watercolors, pastels, portraits). She has flexible time to attend appointments or the support groups and visit the library.

Recently while volunteering at Our PLACE, the participants were engaged in a spirited game of Pool-Noodle Balloon Toss, and I glanced over to see Frank’s reaction. He was grinning from ear to ear! Despite limited mobility, Frank was actively batting the balloon to friends in the circle and laughing out loud! It was truly a Moment of Joy!

Finally, hold the date of May 19th at the Yacht Club for an evening to benefit Our PLACE. More details to follow! Our PLACE is a 501C non-profit, charitable organization, and any donations are tax deductible. For more information go to www.Our PLACEtn.org.

Our Place TN 103 Cheeyo Way Loudon, TN 37774 865-657-7222

March 8 Villages of Farragut 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

March 9 Little Italy 5:45 PM to 8:30 PM

March 17: St. Patrick’s Day @ St. Thomas 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

“Smoky

Google

Springtime Alternatives to OTC

With Tonya Nichols, MPsy., MSc., TDN, BSc.

Monday, March 18, 2024 - Farragut Community Center *

6:30 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm Program

Spring is a time to get outside and enjoy the weather - or maybe not. Does your body’s reaction to Spring sabotage your enjoyment? Tonya Nichols will be presenting ideas to help the body ease spring challenges. She will be discussing alternative solutions to Over-the-Counter preparations. During this program Tonya will demonstrate how to make a couple of these products. Then you will have the opportunity to make them and take them home. Note: There will be an additional charge for members and guests to cover the cost of materials, if you choose to participate in the product making.

CHEO programs are free for members, with a $10.00 suggested minimum donation for all guests. CHEO is a non-profit organization supporting holistic and integrative wellness. CHEO provides the community with many opportunities to discover pathways to well-being.

Questions?? Contact Diane Minch at 423 884 6031 or send an email to us on the CHEO website. www.cheoknox.org

CHEO is a nonprofit organization and expressly disclaims all liability.

For advertising information call 865-657-3077 www.etmv.com

designs you can T R U S T

A r e y o u i t c h i n ’ t o g e t f u l l - i n t o t h a t o u t d o o r r e l a x a t i o n m o d e , f a m i l y r e c r e a t i o n , o r s h o r t s a n d s a n d a l s e n t e r t a i n i n g ? I f s o , y o u m i g h t b e t h i n k i n g o f c h a n g e s y o u w o u l d l i k e t o m a k e t o y o u r o u t d o o r s p a c e R e e v a l u a t i n g y o u r f u r n i t u r e c h o i c e s i s a g r e a t p l a c e t o s t a r t I s i t b o r i n g ? W h a t d o e s i t s a y a b o u t y o u r p e r s o n a l i t y ? W i t h t o d a y ’ s v a r i e t y o f p e r f o r m a n c e f a b r i c s , t h e r e i s n o r e a s o n n o t t o h a v e f u n c o l o r f u l c u s h i o n s T a k e f u l l a d v a n t a g e o f t h e w i d e v a r i e t y o f o p t i o n s : b i s t r o s e t s , c h i c c h a i s e l o u n g e s , h a m m o c k s , w o o d e n b e a c h c h a i r s , o u t d o o r s o f a s , a n d g l i d e r s T h e m o s t i m p o r t a n t c o n s i d e r a t i o n i s h o w y o u w a n t y o u r p a t i o , p o r c h , o r d e c k t o f u n c t i o n W h a t ’ s t h e r a n g e o f t h e n u m b e r o f p e o p l e y o u f o r e s e e u s i n g t h e s p a c e a n d t h e a m o u n t o f y a r d s p a c e y o u h a v e t o w o r k w i t h I f y o u h a v e a p o o l h o w w i l l y o u d i v i d e t h e s p a c e a m o n g t h e s w i m m e r s a n d s p l a s h e r s t h e s u n b a t h e r s t h e y a r d - g a m e c o m p e t i t o r s a n d t h e l o u n g e r s I f y o u h a v e a s m a l l e r b a c k y a r d , y o u c a n a l l o c a t e s p a c e f o r a b o u t t w o t o t h r e e p e o p l e t o s i t t h e r e t o g e t h e r S l e e k , c o l o r f u l f o l d i n g c h a i r s o r s t a c k a b l e o n e s t h a t c a n b e m o v e d o r s t a s h e d a w a y e a s i l y a r e g r e a t c h o i c e s f o r a s m a l l s p a c e I f y o u w a n t a r e l a x i n g p l a c e t o r e a d o r e n j o y t h e o u t d o o r b r e e z e , a h a n g i n g c h a i r c a n b e a s w i n g e r T h e r e ’ s S ’ m o r e D o n ’ t f o r g e t a f i r e p i t f o r t h o s e t a s t y c h o c o l a t e / m a r s h m a l l o w t r e a t s C o n s i d e r a T V f o r m o v i e n i g h t s H o w a b o u t c u s t o m c o r n h o l e b o a r d s ? M a y b e y o u ’ r e t h e o n e s t o r

The Power of Pink!

Ahh! Spring is definitely in the air, and how welcome it is this year, coming on the heels of a cold, snowy winter! Spring 2024 is all about color and especially pink! This color came back with a boom in 2023, thanks to the oh so popular Barbie movie. A feminine color and look, no doubt, and every shade is perfect for this season. Electric pink packs a punch, while soft, baby pink gives a subtle, girly feel... there’s a shade that’s sure to be perfect for everyone!

Color abounds this season... kaleidoscopes of rainbow colors have already filled the store! From gorgeous shades of green, many of which are traditionally seen in fall clothing, to sunny yellows and pink’s sister colors, coral and red! All are bright and happy and complement your staple wardrobe colors of black and white.

Pink will certainly be a surge of power as it shows up for spring... a much anticipated season of both weather and spring! Happy shopping and happy spring time!

Ivy & Brenda

EASTER IS EARLY THIS YEAR - MARCH 31ST, SO WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO WEAR BRIGHTS OR PASTELS…. BLACK OR WHITE… LONG OR SHORT…PANTS OR DRESSES

…. YOUR CHOICES ARE UNLIMITED AT THE LILY PAD!

Korean Ambassador for Peace

The Korean Ambassador for Peace presentation package awarded to Veterans that served in Korea during the period of June, 1950 to July, 1953.

Sometimes referred to as “the forgotten war”, the conflict on the Korean Peninsula in the early 1950’s saw many American Servicemen fighting in a war halfway around the world. During the three bloody years leading up to the signing of the armistice on July 27, 1953, nearly 40,000 Americans were killed and more than 100,000 were wounded.

As a way of recognizing those that helped to defend South Korea during the communist North Korean invasion, the government of South Korea has recently created the “Korean Ambassador for Peace” medal. This medal is awarded by the Korean Government to all veterans that actively served in Korea during the war.

The American Legion Tellico Lake Post 256 is honored to have among its membership four such veterans, Frank Hennesy (Army), Richard Jones (Air Force), William Little (Marine Corps), and Fred Womack (Air Force). With the assistance of the Tennessee chapter of Vet to Vet, applications were made to the Korean Embassy and all four were awarded the commendation.

This commemorative medal is available to all service personnel that actively served in Korea for a minimum of 30 days during the conflict period and can be awarded posthumously to next of kin including spouse or direct descendant. For more information contact the American Legion Tellico Lake post 256 at www.tellico lakepost256.org.

25 Years Experience Residential Specialist Free Estimates

Licensed • Insured Tellico Village Resident

865-607-1975

American Legion Post 256 Commander

Steve Buelow (left) presenting the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal to Korean War veteran Frank Hennessy.

Sweetwater’s Relaxed & Refined Menswear ShopWhere Style Meets Substance

There s a brand-new menswear shop in the heart of downtown Sweetwater, Relaxed & Refined Menswear. Local owners and sisters, Candace McGuffey and Lucretia Allen, recently opened the fashion-conscious store. “Step into the world of effortlessly stylish menswear at Relaxed & Refined Menswear, where we carry a collection of trendy and classic apparel that exudes sophistication and effortless charm. Nestled in the heart of historic downtown Sweetwater, our store invites you to discover a selection of men’s clothing, accessories, and gifts that seamlessly complement your personal style. Whether you’re seeking timeless staples or bold fashion statements, we are here to guide you towards the perfect pieces that reflect your unique personality.”

This month, we interviewed Candace and Lucretia, the owners of Relaxed & Refined Menswear to find out more about their store.

Mountain Views: Tell us a little about yourselves.

Lucretia: We grew up in a family-owned business environment and have very strong connections to our community. I spent 39 years working in the healthcare field and raising my family in Sweetwater. I also had a fun job working for Brenda at The LilyPad Boutique for a number of years.

Candace: I worked in real estate and business management for over 20 years, while raising children and traveling as a military family. When I moved back to the Sweetwater area, we began talking about the two of us opening our own business in Sweetwater.

MV: What factors led to your decision to open a menswear store?

Lucretia: There were two key factors in our decision.

First, we wanted to provide a service that we could offer that was not already provided in Sweetwater. Upon meeting and speaking with members of the community, the number one request was the need for a men’s store. The second key factor was the location. We knew we had to be centrally located downtown. We waited patiently for that perfect spot to become available and in October of 2022, it happened. Not only were we able to obtain a storefront downtown, but also right next door to The LilyPad.

MV: When did you open?

Candace: We opened our store March 31, 2023.

MV: What types of men s items do you sell?

Lucretia: We carry quite a variety of men s items including dress pants, dress shirts, suits, sports coats, casual shirts, polos, performance pants and shorts, jeans, quar-

ter zip, UT sports, belts, leathers, a men’s skincare line, swimwear, shoes, etc.

Candace: We offer our customers complimentary alterations on any clothing items purchased in our store. In addition, we can place special orders for our customers. If we don’t have it, we will make every effort to obtain it. We’re also excited to share we have a new service – tuxedo rentals!

MV: What is your business philosophy?

Lucretia: Our philosophy is to offer quality clothing and provide exceptional customer service. Our customers are the heart of every decision we make.

MV: What are your hours?

Candace: We are open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

MV: Is there anything you would like to add?

Lucretia: None of this would have been possible without the support of our families, the community, Sweetwater City Hall, and Brenda Bryan at LilyPad who helped us so much with her time and ideas. We are so very grateful to everyone.

Considering a Custom Closet?

5 Key Questions to Ponder

Are you tired of rummaging through a cluttered mess of clothes just to assemble a single outfit?

Struggling to locate matching items in your chaotic closet? It might be time to consider a solution that brings order and efficiency to your wardrobe chaos: a custom closet tailored to your needs.

At Tailored Closet, we understand the importance of a well-organized space that simplifies your life. Our professionals will collaborate with you to create a personalized closet design that aligns with your lifestyle. Before scheduling your in-home consultation, here are five essential questions to ask yourself:

1. How much space do I have available? Assessing the dimensions of your closet is crucial for designing an effective organizational system. Whether your space is small or spacious, understanding its size and layout will guide our designers in maximizing every inch of storage.

2. What is my budget? Determining your budget upfront allows us to tailor the design to fit your financial parameters. While costs vary based on factors like closet size and desired features, considering your budget helps prioritize design elements that align with your financial goals.

3. What types of clothing will I be storing? Consider the variety of items you intend to store in your closet, from shirts and pants to accessories and shoes. Identifying your storage needs enables us to customize solutions that accommodate your specific wardrobe requirements.

4. Which accessories and organizers do I require?

Think about the accessories and organizers that would enhance your closet’s functionality. Whether it’s jewelry drawers, pullout hampers, or belt racks, integrating these features ensures seamless organization and easy access to your belongings.

5. What items do I want to showcase for conve-

nience? Whether it’s displaying handbags or showcasing ties, envision how you want to arrange and access your belongings within the closet. Our designers can incorporate stylish and practical solutions that elevate both the functionality and aesthetics of your space.

By addressing these questions, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on the journey toward your dream closet. At Tailored Closet, we’re committed to crafting custom solutions that reflect your unique lifestyle and preferences. Contact us today at (865) 777-0306 and let’s transform your closet into a personalized haven of organization and style!

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION The Tailored Closet (865) 777-0306

TailoredClosetKnoxville.com

Enhancing Your Garage Flooring: Not

All Coatings Are Equal

Are you tired of cringing at the sight of your garage floor marred by pits and stains? Has it become a hazard with crumbling concrete, cracks, or slick spots from years of oil leaks?

As the gateway to your home and often the largest room, the garage deserves attention to transform it into a safe extension of your living space. Homeowners are turning to concrete coatings to achieve this, but it’s essential to recognize that not all options are created equal.

According to Brian Falls, co-owner of PremierGarage of Knoxville, a leading garage flooring company in the area, the choice typically boils down to epoxy or polyurea systems. Falls emphasizes that polyurea stands out as the most advanced and durable coating in concrete flooring technology, providing quality you can rely on.

Here are the additional benefits of opting for a polyurea system for your garage floor:

1. Unparalleled Durability: Polyurea withstands extreme pressure, heavy impacts, and spills, offering superior protection against common garage chemicals like gasoline and paint thinner. It boasts

flexibility, up to 20 times stronger than epoxy, and is UV-resistant with no harmful VOCs. Importantly, it withstands high temperatures, preventing issues like hot tires lifting the coating.

2. Enhanced Safety: Polyurea, combined with polymer paint flakes, creates a slip-resistant surface, reducing the risk of accidents on wet floors. The coating is also antibacterial, stain-resistant, and non-toxic.

3. Rapid Installation and Longevity: Unlike standard epoxy systems that take several days to cure, polyurea hardens within hours and is ready for use in a day. PremierGarage’s polyurea floor coating, backed by a 10-year warranty, retains its color and finish integrity.

4. Easy Maintenance: Spills are effortlessly cleaned with a paper towel, and occasional cleaning with water and vinegar keeps the floor looking new.

PremierGarage relies on our expertise and the experience of our manufacturers to produce the highest quality garage floor system on the market. Derived from the resinous floor industry’s research, testing, and knowledge. Your garage floor may not be the first thing that comes to mind

when you think of home improvement, but it plays a vital role in aesthetics and functionality. Our team is uniquely talented and qualified with 100+ years of combined experience with these resinous floor systems. We are a team of people that install concrete coatings as our core business. It is our primary focus, which means our integrity, consistency, and ongoing success is dependent upon our being the best at what we do.

Investing in a polyurea garage floor not only enhances your home’s value but also combines beauty with strength, proving to be a worthwhile investment. Give us a call at 865-947-8686 to schedule your free inhome consultation.

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

PremierGarage (865) 947-8686

PremierGarage.com

Make It Easy on Yourself with Custom Shelf Storage

By Carrie MCConkey CarrieMCConkey CoM

save 50% or more when compared to national brands. Best of all, everything we do is custom tailored to you.

In the Kitchen…

Whether you have limitations in movement or are simply “vertically challenged,” pull-down units will provide effortless access to those hard-to-reach upper shelves in your kitchen cabinets. For help managing heavy pots, pans, and skillets, a soft-close pot and lid organizer pull-out can be installed in lower cabinetry for clutter-free and easy-to-handle storage. And you no longer have to strain your eyes to see into those deep corner cabinets - we have a variety of solutions like a lazy susan, pull-out shelf, or corner half-moon shelf.

In the Bath…

Stop stooping in your bathroom to retrieve grooming products by installing a Salon Station with roll-out organizers for brushes, blowdryers, and other supplies. Or, try a powered vanity drawer that stores

your plugged-in electric grooming appliances with an automatic shut-off switch when the drawer is closed. Under the sink, recover unused space around the plumbing with custom roll-out shelving, and try a removable basket to hold cleaning products.

In the Pantry…

From pull-outs to swing-outs, maximize your pantry with convenient rolling shelves that will store your canned items, dry goods, paper products and more. No

By Connie Ferraro – TelliCo Hearing SoluTionS

The official POMA (Proceedings of Meetings on Acoustics) definition of NOISE is “Unwanted sound and/or Harmful Wanted noise”.

Wanted noise, whether from a rock concert or power tool use, damages our

matter the size of your pantry, you’ll be shocked at the amount of space you’ll gain after installing custom shelving. And prepare to do away with cumbersome, door-mounted storage racks - you won’t need them!

Make your day-to-day living comfortable and your house fully usable with Shelf Help custom-designed roll-out shelves for your kitchen, pantry, or bath. Call us today for your free, no-obligation,

in-home consultation. Our experienced design consultants will evaluate, design, and measure according to your lifestyle and unique needs, and our professional installers will provide thorough and competent service with a smile. Make it easy on yourself - call us for a free consultation today!

Shelf Help

865.675.5098

ShelfHelpTN.com

ears. Unwanted noise interferes with thought, concentration, and speech. That’s stressful. Noise, largely transportation noise, increases blood pressure and heart rate. Which also increases stress hormone levels.

We think we get “used to” noise, but research shows that our bodies do not. We shouldn’t accept noise pollution. Noise pollution is a public health hazard affecting tens of million of Americans. A quieter world will be a better and healthier world for all.

Video gamers worldwide may be risking irreversible hearing loss and/or tinnitus (persistent ringing/buzzing in the ears). Gamers often play at high-intensity sound levels and for several hours at a time. It is estimated that there were 3 billion gamers worldwide in 2022. There is new evidence from studies of more than 50,000 people, that their sound levels often near, or exceed, permissible safe limits. Given the popularity of these games, awareness of the potential risks is needed.

In October of 2023 the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a new policy statement about the dangers of noise exposure for infants, children, and adolescents. Beginning in childhood, exposure to loud sounds can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis. Damage from noise is cumulative, but a single loud event can also permanently harm hearing. Children have smaller ear canals than adults, which intensifies higher frequency sounds. And the concern is not only with volume, but how long and how often children are exposed to noise.

Personal listening devices pose a major threat to hearing. Headphones with an 85-decibel limit are safer than those without a volume limit, but by no means completely safe.

Good hearing is important for educational success in school and for family life and workplace success in adulthood. We all need a fresh focus on limiting the damage that loud sounds can cause. Turn it all down and rest your ears in quiet.

It’s time to see if your hearing has been damaged by harmful noise; call us and schedule your free hearing test!

A Simple Approach to Managing the Unknown Future

By yvonne MarSH, CFP®, CPa

In the financial planning world, we call the 5 years before retirement and 5 years after retirement the Fragile Decade. It’s during this time that the market’s performance can have an outsize impact on whether your investments will last as long as you do throughout your retirement years. That’s because of something called Negative Sequence of Returns Risk, or Negative Sequencing for short, which is a mathematical phenomenon that becomes very real once you retire and start withdrawing a portion of your investments to supplement your income.

Why Negative Sequencing Can Put Your Retirement at Risk

In a nutshell, we know that market returns are quoted as an average. For example, “My IRA returned an average of 7%/year over the last three years.” But we also know that the average was earned as the market roller-coaster was in motion – some years returning more than 7%, some years less than 7%, but averaging out to 7% over that three-year period.

When you are building wealth as a pre-retiree, we really don’t care about that “sequence of returns” – some years up and some years down. The math shows that you end up with the same amount of money, no matter the sequence. But when you start withdrawing money, it does affect you. If you are withdrawing money in a down-market cycle or a “negative sequence” very early in your retirement years, then the account is shrinking by BOTH the negative market return AND your needed

“Ibelieve that I may have a rare concept regarding the dental profession,” said Billymac, a small business owner that provides services to area telecommunication and data entry businesses. “As a child, I was raised to perform those personal dental hygiene steps every day. However, being the last of nine children, the personal attention to some of those tasks was not watched as close as maybe they should have been. As a result of this neglect, my teeth suffered.

“My personal attention to my teeth came much later in life when I sought those that could help me have and keep a better appearance and longer lasting, healthy smile,” continued Billymac. “I would cover my natural smile, because I realized it was from neglect. Also, the expense to improve my smile was always a major factor. After years of visiting a variety of dental providers, I finally found the level of dental care I always sought at Heritage Family Dentistry when my dentist retired. Heritage Family Dentistry was committed to helping me achieve the new smile I desired.

“At an age of 62, I really enjoy the compliments from others that my new smile brings,” said Billymac. “One of the best things that has happened to me is my renewed self-confidence and the new doors of opportunity that have opened up to me thanks to Heritage Family Dentistry. I love their professionalism as well.

“I would highly recommend Heritage Family Dentistry to everyone, particularly if you enjoy smiling and laughing, which is contagious and begins the moment you enter their office and you meet Ms. Brandy.”

Heritage Family Dentistry offers a full line of advanced dental services and

withdrawals. And when that happens, your account balance won’t last as long in your retirement years, as the average rate of return would misleadingly predict.

Two people can retire with identical strategies - $1 million invested in a 60/40 portfolio and withdrawing $50,000/year – except that the one retiring into a negative market cycle runs out of money in less than 20 years while the one retiring into a positive market cycle ends retirement with more money than he started with, and yet mathematically they have the same average return! Retirees need a different approach to their investing strategy, and it begins in the five years leading up to retirement.

Put Your Investments into Buckets

There is good news in all of this - Investment Bucket segmenting is an effective way to mitigate the unknown Sequence of Returns Risk that you’ll face. Here’s how you do it:

» A NOW bucket has your bank accounts in it: safe, rainy-day money that everyone needs. No risk, but no reward either. That’s OK – gotta have it.

» A SOON bucket has accounts that you’ll access for income in Phase 1 of retirement, roughly eight to 10 years. This may be a brokerage account and/ or an IRA from which you’ll draw your RMD’s. These accounts are invested more conservatively to make their stock market ride a kiddie roller-coaster, with gentle ups and downs. This creates the income bridge to your LATER bucket.

» A LATER bucket holds the rest of your accounts. These accounts are reserved for Phase 2 of retirement, roughly 10-plus years out. They can have a stronger growth orientation, and their stock market ride can be an adult-sized roller-coaster, knowing they have the magic word “time” to stay invested in the markets. Using the Rule of 72, LATER bucket accounts that earn an average of 7%/year will double every 10 years. So as these accounts grow, a portion of them will be poured back into the SOON bucket to refill those conservative accounts as income withdrawals slowly deplete them.

This Investment Bucket strategy is repeatable over and over again, throughout your long-lived retirement years, and is designed to reward you with growth in the LATER bucket while giving you confidence and security in the SOON bucket. It’s an effective strategy for mitigating the unknown sequence risk while you relax and enjoy life. Call or visit our website to learn more.

Marsh Wealth Management, LLC

Fiduciary Registered Investment Advisor

504 Ebenezer Road Knoxville, TN 37923

865-622-2162

www.marshwealth.com

Financial Planning & Investment Advisory Services are offered through Marsh Wealth Management, LLC (“MWM”), an independent investment advisor

East Tennessee Area Wildlife: OSPREY

Photographing the beauty of Tennessee, and the wildlife who call it home.

YBy kalley Cook

ou might notice you don’t see ospreys here in winter. That’s because they go further south to stay warm, but they are finally starting to migrate back to their Tennessee nesting grounds for the spring/summer. If you know of an osprey nest, you might notice every spring that one always returns first, and the mate follows days later. This is because when a pair departs for their winter grounds, they leave at different times, they go to different locations, and won’t see each other all winter long. Since they are monogamous, when they come back here, one osprey will sit at the nest and wait for the return of their mate.

Osprey are excellent at hunting fish and are known as the “fish hawk”. They are actually social raptors and usually pretty easy to observe as most don’t seem to be bothered by human presence. My favorite thing to watch them do is hunt fish, and if you’ve never watched them before, then check out any local dam during the summer and you’ll be sure to find them. It’s quite amazing to watch them dive into the water at such fast speeds – they can reach up to 50mph. It’s so much fun to watch. Contact: Kalleybcook@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography

https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/

Though wildlife and nature photography hold her heart, you can contact Kalley for all of your photography needs, including sports, portraits, still life, food, real-estate, weddings, and photojournalism.

Kalley uses a Canon 7d markii, paired with a Canon 100-400mm lens for all of her photos. You can purchase photos or prints of Kalley’s wildlife photography on a variety of products (mugs, mousepads, magnets, etc.).

Have a favorite animal that you’d like some text included? Custom orders welcome. Just go to https://kalleycook.smugmug. com or email Kalley. Shipping is available.

High Quality Carpet, Flooring, & Cabinetry for the Lowest Prices

By riCk kleveno, owner – CounTry CarPeT & Flooring / CaBineTS

Want to transform your home’s outdated kitchen, but worried about breaking the bank in the process? Worry no longer. At Country Carpet & Flooring, our everyday prices are reasonable, affordable, and far lower than even the sale prices you’ll find at our competition. We sell high quality solid wood cabinetry direct from the factory. That means no middlemen, no distributors, no dealers, no boutique-style showrooms, and no exorbitant prices to make you wince. What we do have is the highest quality cabinetry, all solid wood, with your choice of door profiles, soft-close doors and drawers, dovetail drawers, colors, and hardware. And more. We’ve even got specialty cabinets like waste receptacles, spice racks, and so on. Come on by, and we’ll create a showcase kitchen for you, one that will be the envy of your friends and family.

At Country Carpet & Flooring, we ve earned our reputation as the area’s premier resource for all your residential and commercial flooring needs. Over 4 decades, we’ ve proven we ’re the best. But more than that, we’ve have also earned a reputation for designing and installing fine kitchen cabinetry for far less than you might expect to spend in Knoxville’s kitchen designer showrooms.

So if you ve been dreaming of a new custom kitchen and bath, but thought you couldn t afford it, think again. Let the professionals at Country Carpet & Flooring show you how to transform your ordinary kitchen and bath into an extraordinary one. And while you’ re here, why not complete your new project with new flooring as well? An extensive selection of name brand tile, hardwood, carpeting and vinyl plank flooring awaits you at Country Carpet & Flooring. A stunning new kitchen and bath couldn’t be easier.

Country Carpet & Flooring / Cabinets

3107 Highway 411

(Across from Sequoyah High School)

Madisonville, TN 37354 423-442-8860

countrycarpet@bellsouth.net

Mom’s Home - The female osprey can be distinguished from the male by two things: the female is larger but if you look at her chest, you can see a brown coloring which is called a ‘necklace’. Mom had left the nest for a very quick drink since it was very hot this morning but was right back in the nest within minutes.

Protection - This photo always tugs at my heart and shows how much they care for their families. Since osprey nests are always exposed to the sun, they have to make sure their babies don’t overheat. So, they’ll shield them from the sun. Both male and female take care of the babies, but I always notice Mom to be in the nest more while Dad is on lookout close by and brings in meals.

Incoming - I wanted to share this photo because not only does it show you how amazing they look when fishing, but also brings awareness of how important it is to always clean up fishing lines and lures. Although it looks like this osprey might go away with this “fish”, thankfully it realized it was a lure and left it. A fisherman in a boat close did get it out of the water.

Winter has been interesting! We had 9+ inches of snow and record-breaking sustained cold, followed by temperatures in the 60s. It isn’t unusual for temperatures to go up and down this time of year, but this was a little more dramatic than we typically see.

If you aren’t from around here, you should know that we probably have a few more “winters” to go, even after spring arrives. Before there were weathermen on TV and phone instant access, the farmers of Appalachia watched for signs to let them know when to plant their gardens. Predicting spring cold snaps meant the difference in the success or failure of their crops. Since these happen around the same time each spring, the old-timers gave them each a name, usually based on the blooming trees at the time. Redbud winter will be our first and usually happens in mid-March, followed by Dogwood, Locust, and Blackberry winters. If we’re unlucky, we could even have a Whippoorwill or Little Britches winter in May!

Now that you’ve had your daily trivia, there are things you can do on the beautiful days.

» Walk around and evaluate the winter damage so far. Don’t rush to “fix” anything. Many plants will recover on their own.

» See what you like in your yard and what you don’t. What needs to be pruned, moved, divided, treated, and/or weeded? Make notes and a “to-do” list of things to be done on a nice day. Stop by if you need planning help.

» Have an area where nothing seems to thrive? Do a soil test to determine if your problem spot has an imbalance that needs to be corrected.

» March is a great cleanup time. Pull weeds then treat the beds with Preen or another pre-emergent to keep them from coming back.

» Work some good compost, aged manure, and/or worm castings into the soil to add nutrients.

» Cut perennials back to where new growth is emerging, but consider leaving ones with seed heads for the birds. They need the food to prepare for spring families.

» Freshen or top dress mulch beds. It protects the plants from the spring freeze/ thaw cycles and keeps moisture stable. Do NOT use too much! Three inches is optimal. NEVER pile the mulch around the base of plants or create tree volcanoes. Mulch should look like a flattened donut around trees and shrubs. If a good base of mulch is already in place, give it a good raking to “fluff” it.

» You can plant cool season annuals, perennials, and vegetables but please don’t plant warm season annuals and veggies yet. Everybody wants to get the first tomato of the year, but a tomato planted while the soil is cold will not bear well. The early farmers and Native Americans watched the Dogwoods. When they begin blooming, it’s usually safe to plant tender annuals, perennials, and vegetables.

» Research before pruning. Crepe myrtles get murdered, hydrangeas and spring bloomers don’t bloom, and trees are horribly deformed by homeowners (and some bad “landscapers”) who have no idea what they’re doing. The Knox County Master Gardeners Program has pruning videos on YouTube, and we’ll be happy to help as well.

» Houseplants are ready for some TLC. Wash off the leaves - small plants can go in the sink for a rinse and larger ones can be cleaned with a damp cloth, Swiffer, or dusting glove. Check for disease and insects, and up-pot if necessary. Don’t go

too big! One pot size is enough.

» Remember that the soil will feed your plant for the coming years or even its entire life. Cheap soil is the equivalent of feeding them pizza and soda for every meal. We recommend Fox Farms, Earth Mix, Fafard, or Black Gold.

» Get your containers ready for spring. Dump the soil from small pots and work into your garden beds. Some pots just need a quick rinse, and some need a thorough scrubbing. If you had a fungal problem with the plants that were in the pot, rinse it with a mild bleach solution. White lines on your pot? It’s an indicator that fertilizing has been a bit overzealous and salts are building up. You’ll need to scrub those off and ease up on the fertilization.

» If your containers are large, you don’t need to dump the entire pot out every year. If a tree, shrub, or perennials are in them, top dress with compost. For seasonal planting, replace the top 6”-12” with fresh soil. Problems with fungus or insects? Start all over as both can hide out in soil and re-infect new plants.

Remember to take care of our feathered friends. Keep your feeders and birdbaths clean and full, and protect birdhouses.

We are getting shipments in daily right now, so stop in and see what’s new!

Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center 9885 Highway 11E, Lenoir City, TN 37772 865.986.7229

MeadowViewGreenhouse.com

Weatherproof All of Your Out-of-Door Events

It’s ALMOST time to move your family’s events back outdoors, and the professionals at Undercover Systems can provide you, your family, and friends with the option to spend unlimited time out-of-doors all year-round.

This spring is the perfect time to install Undercover Systems’ totally unique underdeck ceiling system under your home’s existing raised decks. This totally proprietary and patented underdeck system will ensure that this year’s outdoor gatherings will be protected from unexpected and unwanted rain, the searing summertime sun, and next winter’s sleet and snow. You’ll appreciate Undercover Systems’ attention to detail, which comes from years of experience, as they help you craft a seamless transition from your home’s interior to your new out-of-door living spaces. Underdeck ceilings are available in a variety of colors and textures - even bead board! - to perfectly complement your existing architecture and landscaping plans.

“It’s great time to weatherproof all of your future out-of-door events,” said Jim Conn, owner of Undercover Systems. “Throughout the entire process, our skilled craftsmen work with you, each step of the way, from consultation until your project is completed to your satisfaction. And because each underdeck system we install is custom made by Undercover Systems specifically for your individual home, you can be assured of many years of reliable, trouble-free family enjoyment. Most of our competitors use generic, off-the-shelf components found at the big box home improvement stores. Our underdeck product is totally supported by Undercover Systems’ gutter system and not your home’s decking as with competitive systems. This promotes greater air circulation and deck longevity. A fact that homeowners always appreciate!”

A complaint-free member of the Better Business Bureau, Undercover Systems offers you the peace of mind that you deserve in a building contractor.

Why not start creating a lifetime of memories by surprising your family this season with a special springtime gift that the entire family can enjoy all year long? Call Jim Conn today at 423-267-0091 and start celebrating every season out-of-doors.

Undercover Systems 423.267.0091

UndercoverSystems.com

WHot Band Cool Music.... Let’s Help Build Houses!!!!

Saturday, April 6th for an energetic

Wearin’ of the Greens

By Bo Carey

“The Orange and the Green” is a rollicking folk song by the Irish Rovers, poking fun at the tensions between Protestant and Catholic Irish people. With St. Patrick’s Day this month, we pay respect to all Irish, regardless of religion, region, or bloodline.

The pioneers who settled East Tennessee’s hills in the early 1800’s were more on the orange side, Presbyterian Scots-Irish who came down from Pennsylvania in search of land and freedom. We’ll save that story for a later article. Those with a “wee bit of the green” are most interesting to me in 2024. These would be descendents of the Irish who fled to America in the late 1840’s to escape the Great Hunger, or the Potato Famine. These immigrants knew nothing of the mountain and lake country we enjoy in the south; instead, they came in great waves of starving, ragged hordes to the northern cities of Boston, New York, and Chicago. My great grandfather J.Patrick Carey was one of them.

These were the unwanted “paddies” who came with nothing and with nothing to offer. Help Wanted posters declared “Irish Need not Apply,” and it often took generations before these families realized the American dream. Now there’s a new wave of 4th and 5th generation Irish “immigrants” arriving daily in Tellico Village, Rarity Bay, and Tennessee National. They come mostly from the Chicago suburbs, New England, and upstate New York. With names like O’Shea, Brennan, and Shanahan, they are finding this area much to their liking. To all Irish-Americans who have retired here, I offer a hearty “Slainte,” which means “health” in both the old Irish and Gaelic languages. “Health and many good years to you all!”

Bo Carey is a 7th generation Loudon County resident with a passion for local history. He is the owner of Greer’s Home Furnishings in Historic Loudon and is available for lectures or programs for any area group or civic club.

(865) 659-2300.

efiting our charity partner, Loudon County Habi

tat for Humanity. Tickets are on sale now through Eventbrite.com for this event to be held outdoors at the Yacht Club of Tellico Village (100 Sequoyah Lane, Loudon) from 6-9pm. Loudon County TN Habitat for Humanity is celebrating their 30th anniversary of providing safe and affordable local housing to those in need through new builds and critical repairs. To date, teams have built more than 120 new homes and made repairs to more than 90 existing homes. Visit www.loudoncountyhabitat.org to learn more about this wonderful charity organization.

Second Wind, an adult rock band with horns and full rhythm section, will cover music from Chicago, Earth Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder, Aretha and many more - plus delighting us with some original tunes. Bringing the music we love from the decades we miss. To learn more about these elite musicians, visit www.secondwindknox.com.

This concert is the first of four events in the Elite Tunes Series at Tellico Village 2024 lineup. Our mission is to provide high level musical events in Tellico Village so proceeds can support financial donations to nonprofit charity groups that enhance the lives of East Tennessee communities.

For questions, please email elitestunesattellico@gmail.com.