Everything Knoxville June 2024 Edition

Page 1

SEE OUR ARTICLE ON PAGE 24

10 Shelf Help

Simple solutions for more kitchen access.

15 Ross the Boss Salons

Experience a sense of belonging in a supportive community.

24 PremierGarage

Achieve a spotless epoxy garage floor in three simple steps.

35 Kelly’s Belly Eats Local

The yum-factor of Old City’s Southern Grit restaurant.

38 Dr. Jim Bailey

Are you evaluating yourself accurately?

OUR COVER story this month about the downtown Sunsphere and CertaPro’s contribution to its recent improvements has me remembering when my kids were much younger. As a family, we always referred to the Sunsphere as the “gold ball on the stick.” Although the moniker sounds funny, we were repeatedly delighted to be greeted by it on our way in or out of Knoxville. There are just some things that signal that you are home.

And Knoxville has been our home for more than 30 years now - wow! As a person who moved around a lot as a child, never really putting down roots anywhere in particular, I am amazed at just how enmeshed people can become in their community. (I am also amazed the enmeshed contains an “n.” Learn something new every day!) From our kids going to the same school district from grade school through high school, to being actively

JUST IN CASE you didn’t notice on the cover, this is a team of CertaPro Painters repainting the steel trusses near the top of the Sunsphere! CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee was chosen to complete this very important project by showing that they had the professional expertise, experience, and communication skills this undertaking required.

Hours of Business Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Everything Knoxville is distributed from Downtown Knoxville to hundreds of neighborhoods in Bearden, West Knoxville, Farragut, Hardin Valley and beyond.

involved in our neighborhood homeowners association, to having attended the same church since our son was a baby, we are a part of Knoxville and it is a part of us. We attended the Southern Skies Music Festival recently and were surprised at just how many people we came across that we knew - past coworkers, longtime friends, one of our kid’s past youth group leaders. Thankfully, Knoxville seems to have an underlying theme of the importance of bringing people together whether it be for sports, art, meals, music, or even the preservation of what makes Knoxville, Knoxville. (Thanks, Knox Heritage!)

So we will continue to be an active part of our lively community and encourage you to do the same. Whether it is participating in Pecha Kucha, enjoying a hike at Ijams Nature Center, or being the secretary of your HOA (15 years and counting, by the way!), Knoxville is Knoxville because of you!

Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor Brett Cafferty Marketing + Operations Kendra Menendez Editor + Administration
Design
Production
Information Post Office Box
Knoxville, TN 37933
Reach us Online
JUNE
Meredith Hancock
+
Contact
24532
865.640.3015
info@everythingknoxville.com EverythingKnoxville.com
From the Publisher EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE | VOLUME 18 | ISSUE 6 Insights & Highlights ............................. 26 Food and Recipes .................................34 Boomerocity .......................................... 40 Calendar of Events ................................42 Knox Heritage ........................................ 45 Random Acts of Flowers ..................... 49
4 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
Photo by Morgan Hayley Harper

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

Q&A

There are three broad categories that cause peripheral neuropathy. The first and most common is diabetes. Another potential cause may be autoimmune conditions where the body starts attacking its own tissues. The third broad category can be labeled environmental, which includes things like certain medications, chemotherapy, or excessive use of alcohol that can damage these small nerves.

How long have you been helping people like this?

We have been treating patients like these for nearly 20 years and brought this type of treatment to Knoxville more than three years ago with great success.

Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition where the small nerves, usually in the toes and feet, stop working properly. Most people feel burning, tingling, or numbness in their feet, which may cause them to fall.

All of the tissues in our body rely on blood for nutrients so they can be repaired. Let’s imagine that blood is the consistency of water for this example. In a person with diabetes, their blood will be more like the consistency of syrup due to the higher sugar content. This type of blood cannot easily flow through the small blood vessels that feed the nerves in their toes and feet. Eventually the nerves will start to degenerate and they lose the ability to feel their feet

The most common treatments are medications. For many people, medications do not work very well to control their symptoms and create additional uncomfortable side effects.

The providers in our clinic have an 85% success rate helping people reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. It is not uncommon to hear people tell us that they can finally feel their feet again for the first time in years and that they are not as afraid of falling. I was pain free for the first time in years.

If you have been told that there is nothing that can help your condition, call our clinic to schedule a consultation where we will meet with you to find out if you are a good candidate for treatment.

Q
What
: What is peripheral neuropathy?
causes this condition? How does diabetes cause neuropathy?
What is the next step towards relief? What
Are there other options for people
this condition?
are common treatments for peripheral neuropathy?
with
Knoxville Neuropathy • 9125 Cross Park Drive, Suite 150, Knoxville, TN 37923 865.275.2444 • KnoxvilleNeuropathy.com

Honored to Paint a Knoxville Icon:

The Sunsphere

CERTAPRO PAINTERS of East Tennessee has been painting homes and businesses in our area for more than 20 years. Their longevity can be attributed to the company’s certainty promise of a “job well done.” This promise comes directly from a consistent presentation of their job expectations, making CertaPro Painters a go-to for residential and commercial property improvements. When the opportunity to repaint the iconic downtown Sunsphere arose, the company jumped at the chance to participate. Everything Knoxville talked to those involved in the now successfully completed project.

The project to repaint the steel truss structure from the current weathered and peeling green color back to its original blue was initiated by Visit Knoxville who, in 2018, took on the responsibility of improving the visitor experience at the World’s Fair Park Sunsphere. CertaPro’s Commercial Sales Manager, Steve Thrasher, submitted a bid for the fall 2023 painting project. All prospective vendors were vetted by Visit Knoxville, the Knoxville Public Building Authority, and the architectural firm McCarty Holsaple McCarty, who originally designed World’s Fair Park. There were many distinct challenges to consider: weather conditions, structure height, tourism safety, and a secure work environment. After many meetings, detailed questionnaires, and a site visit, CertaPro of East Tennessee was chosen for their overreaching professional effort.

lifted and moved as the painting of each hexagon section was completed.

The immense project was broken down in to multiple phases. With a standing weekly meeting between the customer and CertaPro Painter’s management team to report on current progress, production plans, and completed work, John found that they “really enjoyed the com plexity of this project!”

By the end of 2023, the entire base of the historic Sunsphere had been completely transformed to its original

John Duncan, CertaPro’s Commercial Service Manager, knew that “having a daily and weekly production plan was key to the project’s success. Balancing communication between the customer, the rigging crew, as well as onsite security staff was essential to keep the project moving as efficiently as possible to prevent downtime for our crew and to keep everything on schedule.”

Because of the height of the structure and the time of year (autumn/winter), there were many considerations and special equipment required. CertaPro’s Director of Commercial Operations, Patrick Harmony, remembers that not only was there a need to “check temperatures for primer and paint applications twice daily, but a fall hazard safety area at the base of at the Sunsphere was a necessity to keep workers and visitors protected.” A two-point swing stage suspended scaffold (like high-rise window washers use), an 80-foot articulating boom lift (like a free standing cherry picker), and a Bosun’s Chair (suspends a single person) had to be

“For more than 40 years, the Sunsphere has brought joy and inspiration to our community. We are incredibly honored to have been chosen to paint the iconic Sunsphere, and we’re humbled to be a part of this incredible project.”
- CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee
6 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
“It was evident CertaPro Painters had the skills, the team, and support for a high-profile job. Steve, Patrick, and John felt like family by the end of the job, so in my heart, they were 100000% the right partner for this opportunity.”
- Kim Bumpas, Visit Knoxville President

blue color - and it was paid for by the Visit Knoxville Sunsphere Fund.

CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee was delighted to play a part in this very visual transformation that minimally impacted last year’s Sunsphere visitors.

Steve recalls that “the entire commercial team excelled to deliver the project on time, on budget, exceeding expectations. We are proud to be able to be a part of such a significant project for the city of Knoxville.”

If you would like the same care and attention for your project that the Sunsphere received, call CertaPro Painters for an estimate. As a locally owned and operated business, their skilled team of East Tennessee residents is ready to serve their

CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee 10904 McBride Lane Knoxville, TN 37932

865.470.0001

CertaPro.com/East-Tennessee

Sunsphere History

Knoxville’s Most Iconic Landmark

THE SUNSPHERE was designed for the 1982 World’s Fair. The theme of the Fair was “Energy Turns the World,” with the gold orb representing the sun on a blue base that was meant to blend in with the color of the sky.

The 26-story hexagon structure stands 266 feet high and features reflective glass panels made with 24 karat gold dust that cover the 75-foot diameter orb. Each pane cost approximately $1,000 at the time of construction. The Sunsphere served as the symbol of the Fair, like the Eiffel Tower (1889 World’s Fair) and Seattle Space Needle (1962 World’s Fair), that could be seen when entering Knoxville from any direction. During the Fair, it was home to a full-service sun-themed restaurant and an 360º observation deck that could be accessed by visitors for a $2 elevator ride up.

Unfortunately, the Sunsphere was closed to the public soon after the Fair ended. Since then it has mainly housed business offices. The 4th floor Observation Deck was refurbished and reopened in 2014. Visit Knoxville, in partnership with the City of Knoxville, the Public Building Authority, and Knox County, is now managing the Observation Deck, where a gallery of local images - including those from the 1982 World’s Fair - has been added. It is open to the public for a $5 fee that contributes to the Sunsphere Fund. Since reopening in February 2022, the Sunsphere has welcomed more than 115,000 visitors from all 50 states and more than 55 countries around the globe.

Painting the Sunsphere was Phase I; Phase II is an update and expansion of the 3rd level Welcome Center that will include retail space and expanded Knoxville visitor information. The goal is to enhance the structure for the enjoyment of groups and individuals for generations to come.

To donate to the Sunsphere Fund that continues to protect and preserve this iconic piece of the Knoxville skyline, email SunsphereFund@Knoxville.org, go to VisitKnoxville.com, or stop by the Visit Knoxville offices downtown at 301 South Gay Street.

June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 7

Shining the Light on Your Summer Nights

AS THE SUN lingers longer in the sky and warm summer evenings beckon, it’s the perfect time to transform your outdoor space into a haven of relaxation and entertainment. While many focus on landscaping and furniture, the impact of outdoor lighting is often underestimated. Yet, with the right illumination, your backyard can become a magical retreat, extending your enjoyment well into the night.

A full-service lighting, design, and installation company, Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting can provide an entirely new perspective on your home’s exterior that you otherwise may not have known existed. Evening hours offer an opportunity to showcase your home’s distinct architecture and landscaping in ways you never imagined. The right lighting design can provide a totally unique perspective that simply doesn’t exist during daylight hours.

Our lighting specialists are some of the best trained lighting designers in the industry today. Our expertise enables us to work with you to design that custom, tailored look to showcase your home’s architectural and landscape design features. Our installation team will install your exterior lighting to the highest industry standards, leaving the installation site meticulously clean, as though we were never there. All we leave behind is a skillfully designed and installed lighting system that will surround your home and adjacent landscaping with the warm glow of elegance.

My team and I will provide a free demonstration, create a distinctive design, and plan a successful, top-notch installation. Upon completion, your satisfaction is guaranteed by a final walkthrough and fine tuning of your newly installed lighting system. Finally,

every installation is backed with our one year, no-cost service plan, as well as optimal extended service agreements.

Let the our professionals at Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting show you how affordable exterior illumination can be and just how great your home can look after sunset! Take advantage of our June “beat the heat” offer and get ready for memorable summer and fall nights! Call us for details.

Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting

11519 Kingston Pike, Suite 156 Knoxville, TN 37934

865.484.4011

Lighthouse-Lights.com/Knoxville

June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 9

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS = MORE KITCHEN ACCESS

DO YOU have cluttered cabinets with hard-to-reach items? After seeing this dilemma for years in the kitchen design and renovation business, Shelf Help was started in Knoxville in 2016 to offer simple and affordable solutions to these common problems. Our customized, built-for-you roll-out drawers, along with a wide range of cabinet and drawer organizers, allow you to easily store, see, and reach everything in your kitchen, pantry, bath, or laundry room.

Roll-out shelving utilizes full-extension glides that allow you to effortlessly pull out the entire shelf, bringing even the deepest corners into plain view. This accessibility not only saves time and effort, but also minimizes the risk of straining or injuring yourself while reaching for heavy or awkwardly positioned items. Traditional cabinets with a fixed shelf typically result in wasted space and frustration as items get pushed to the back, out of sight, and even harder to reach. One of the primary advantages of our roll-out shelving and organizers is their ability to improve access to the items stored in lower cabinets. By providing a clear view of all your kitchen essentials, Shelf Help makes it

easier for you to locate and retrieve items when you need them. No more rummaging through cluttered cabinets while squatting or on your hands and knees. No more forgetting about items hidden in the depths of your pantry - everything is now within reach and easily visible at a glance. It’s a huge difference, and our clients love the improvement!

For even more access, we can remove the center stile (vertical piece between your cabinet doors) to install drawers the full width of the cabinet interior, giving you much more storage space. The stile is then attached to one of the doors so that when

the cabinet doors are closed, it looks the same as before. (See photos.)

Locally owned and serving the Knoxville community and surrounding area for eight years - Shelf Help loves helping clients gain more functional, accessible, and organized spaces. We offer a complimentary visit, recommendations, and professional installation, all tailored for you and your home. Let us help make your kitchen work better for you.

We receive more comments from Everything Knoxville readers than any other form of advertising. Homeowners pull out the articles and keep them! I just had a customer tell me she had 14 years-worth, so she could take them with her if she moved!

Fewer people are reading newspapers, radio and TV advertising are very expensive, and as small business owners it’s hard to target specific demographics. Even when times were lean, our participation in Everything Knoxville was the one thing I refused to cut in our budget because we knew how much it helped our business grow.

We have been advertising in Everything Knoxville since 2007, and it continues to be the best way to get our information in the hands of the people we want to reach.

Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center 9885 Highway 11 E Lenoir City, TN 37772 (865) 986-7229

Shelf Help 865.675.5098 ShelfHelpTN.com
SHARING THE SMALL BUSINESS STORIES OF KNOXVILLE
SUCCESS
10 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

Fleenor Security Expands to Better Serve Region: New Headquarters in Johnson City Driven by Rapid Business Growth

FLEENOR SECURITY, a leading provider of innovative commercial and residential security solutions, has opened the doors on its new headquarter facility located in Johnson City, Tennessee. This expansion underscores the company’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the safety and security for the residents and businesses within the territories it serves.

Led by President Will Fleenor, the new facility serves as Fleenor’s headquarters and symbolizes a remarkable transformation from Fleenor’s previous Johnson City location. The expansion is a testament to their commitment to serving their team and community.

From humble beginnings as a one-man operation founded by Norman Fleenor in 1972, Fleenor has experienced unprecedented growth, now boasting more than 100 employees across two locations in Knoxville and Johnson City, TN. This milestone marks a significant leap forward for Fleenor Security, driven by its exceptional growth and steadfast commitment to protecting communities. Will Fleenor takes immense pride in his role as a leading provider of security solutions in the region.

“We’re very excited for this expansion,” said Will. “The new headquarters is a milestone moment in our 52-year history and symbolic of our growth and incredible momentum as we embark on this exciting new chapter. Fleenor has been built on a pioneering and innovative spirit, and we believe our new headquarters will help continue building a dynamic and thriving business that will attract top talent from our industry.”

Knoxville’s Trusted Life Safety Professionals

Fleenor Security is dedicated to protecting Knoxville residents and businesses with a team of local experts committed to safeguarding what matters most. With over 50 years of industry

experience, our Knoxville office offers tailored security solutions for homes, businesses, and communities. Our services include fire detection, access control, security, video surveillance, and more, ensuring top-tier protection.

Now, with our new headquarters in Johnson City, Fleenor is even better equipped to serve our region. Join our growing community in Knoxville and surrounding areas who trust Fleenor Security for their safety needs. For more information about Fleenor Security and its comprehensive range of residential and commercial security services, visit FleenorSecurity.com.

Fleenor Security Systems 10446 Cogdill Road Knoxville, TN 37932

865.544.9964

FleenorSecurity.com TN C-0239 VA 11-1901 NC 1721-CS

June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 11

Historic Ramsey House

IT’S THAT time of year again! We are gearing up for our 11th season of Vintage Base Ball at Historic Ramsey House. During the past 10 years, the grounds of the Historic Ramsey House have played host to a local Tennessee Vintage Base Ball Association team: the Knoxville Holstons. The team is modeled after an original team that played here in Knoxville during the 1860s.

The Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball was established in 2012 to entertain and educate our communities by recreating the civility of 19th century baseball. They bring living history to life through baseball events that use the rules, equipment, costumes, and culture of the 1860s by providing cultural enrichment, education programs and activities for youth and adults that emphasize honor, team play, respectful conduct, and community pride.

DIXIE LEE MARKET

Renaissance Center

12740 Kingston Pike, 37934

Saturdays 9 am - Noon

MARKET SQUARE

DOWNTOWN

Wednesdays from 10 am - 1 pm

Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm

NEW HARVEST PARK

4775 New Harvest Lane, 37918

Thursdays 3 pm - 6 pm

EBENEZER ROAD

Ebenezer United Methodist Church 1001 Ebenezer Road, 37923 Tuesdays 3 pm - 6 pm

HISTORIC OAK RIDGE

Jackson Square

209 Jackson Square, 37830

Saturdays 8 am - Noon

THE PRESERVE TOWN CENTER

201 Broadberry Avenue, 37830

4th Wednesday of each month 9 am - 1 pm

This is a FREE event for the entire family! As always, concessions will be available, and all proceeds will go directly to the ongoing preservation of Historic Ramsey House. Make sure to bring your own chair and a shady umbrella or tent. Historic Ramsey House is located at 2614 Thorn Grove Pike in Knoxville. For more information on the Tennessee Vintage Base Ball Association, visit TennesseeVintageBaseBall.com.

SUMMER GAME SCHEDULE: Games Begin at 1 pm

June 22

Cumberland Club of Nashville vs Knoxville Holstons

August 3

Franklin Farriers vs Knoxville Holstons

August 17

Mountain City Club of Chattanooga vs Knoxville Holstons

Check RamseyHouse.org for more info.

OR SHINE! 12 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
RAIN

Each event offers activities, games, hands-on crafts, and other fun pursuits for families with children ages 2-12, hosted by the City of Knoxville’s Office of Special Events, Parks and Recreation Department, and other community partners. Participation is free, and no registration is required.

Events are on Wednesdays in June and July from 10 am to 1 pm in seven different parks: Baxter Ave Park & Fire Station #3, 204 E. Baxter Avenue

Chilhowee Park, 401 Lakeside Street (including Touch-A-Truck!)

Fort Kid, 1049 World’s Fair Park Drive

• July 10: Morningside Park, 1600 Dandridge Road

• July 17: Fountain City Park, 117 Hotel Road

• July 24: West Hills Park, 410 N. Winston Road

• July 31: World’s Fair Park, 910 World’s Fair Park Drive

*No events on June 19 and July 3

Come enjoy making crafts, playing games, and so much more while making fun memories during summer vacation. All activities are free!

Established in 2019 as a weekly opportunity for summertime activities for youngsters and their families in Market Square, Kid A’ Riffic has expanded to include parks across the city and multiple community partners. Kid A’ Riffic was awarded “Best Children’s Event in the Southeast” by the Southeast Festivals & Events Association (SFEA). For more information, visit KnoxvilleTN.gov or call 865-215-4248.

Your weekly county trash pickup JUST got easier. We are proud to be expanding in East Tennessee! Residential Curbside Trash Pickup Recycling Services Dumpster Rentals Bulk Trash Hauling Services Construction Waste Containers for Rent CALL FOR RATES 5StarWaste.com info@5StarWaste.com 865.988.9737 Hauling garbage is what we do best! Locally owned
our phones! ID
area
and operated | Live team members answer
A’ RIFFIC Fun in the Park returns this summer with free mid-week fun for
June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 13

Do You Crave Community?

IKNOW

I’m getting older, but hopefully I’m just a really fun guy because “time flies when you’re having fun!” I say this because it seems like there is always another business article, ad, presentation, or message due, and I have the same response almost every time: “Are you sure? It seems like I JUST did that!” Although it feels like I just wrote an article yesterday (slight exaggeration), here we are again, and I find myself trying to think of what point I really want to share with you.

like the Race Against Cancer walk, holiday parties, and more!

The thought that I’ve been obsessed with recently is the fact that we all need to be a part of a supportive community. I have been blessed to be a member of several wonderful communities throughout the years - from soccer teams to church groups - and whenever I’m not connected to one, I find that I really crave it!

It would seem that I am about to propose that getting your hair done at Ross the Boss will make you feel included in a supportive community, and although I can’t promise that… I really hope it’s true! We have clients that have been coming to the same stylist for more than 40 years, so we are hopeful that you will experience that same sense of belonging when you visit one of our salons. Our purpose is to create an environment where people can experience professional excellence and genuine love. We’d love to see you fit in to our imperfect but supportive environment!

Ross the Boss Salons

Forest Park • Oak Ridge • Fountain City Powell • Center Park • Emory Road

Maryville • Morristown RosstheBoss.com

MOREMOVIES, more fun! Not only is there a great lineup of movies, it is also the 11th anniversary of Terror in the Woods with FrightWorks and Knoxville Horror Film Fest! Grab your favorite blanket or lawn chair and join the fun. Doors open at 6 pm and movies begin around dark. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is highly recommended, as space is limited and walk-up tickets may not be available.

Food trucks and the Ijams beer garden will have tasty meals, snacks, and beverages for purchase. No coolers and no outside alcohol, please. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. Check Ijams.com or their social media for rain plan if needed.

Tickets are $12 per person; Ijams and Central Cinema Members are $10. Special ticket pricing of $18 per person for Terror in the Woods includes the haunted trail from FrightWorks.

June 7 - Pirates of the Caribbean (PG-13)

June 22 - Terror in the Woods: Fright Night (R) and 30 Days of Night (R)

July 12 - Back to the Future (PG)

Aug. 16 - Across the Universe (PG-13)

Aug. 30 - The Muppet Movie (G)

Sept. 13 - Friday the 13th III (R)

Sept. 27 - Hunger Games (PG-13)

Oct. 4 - Scream (R)

Recent group hike hosted by Jess and Daniel Howard for their co-workers. Other company group events include bowling, “family” salon dinners, participating in community fundraisers
June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 15

Increase Your Home’s ROI with Custom Storage Design

WHETHER

IN YOUR closet, pantry, laundry room, mud room, home office, craft space, or garage, customized storage brings organized beauty to your home. With basics like shelving and cabinets, conveniences such as LED lighting and countertops, and accessories such as laundry hampers, valet rods, and fold-out mirrors, there is no doubt that made-to-measure storage design will enhance your daily life. But did you know it can also boost the return on investment of your home? Read on to learn how custom storage design can improve the value of your house, help you protect your belongings, save you money, and give you back the world’s most precious commodity: time.

Grow Your Home’s Value

Large or small, new construction or historic, homes featuring custom storage have one thing in common: universal appeal. Able to adjust to a household’s changing needs, versatile components such as closet rods or slatwall accessories can be switched out to accommodate growing teens, support aging in place, or appease new owners. Short on storage areas? The potential of irregularly-sized or limited spaces can be unleashed. And nothing beats the positive first impression that a neat and tidy home makes on visitors, houseguests, and potential homebuyers alike.

Preserve Your Possessions

Whether it be your dream car, designer jewelry, or simply your favorite laundry detergent, if you chose to purchase it, it deserves to be treated with care. With organized storage you can keep your cooking appliances close at hand, highlight your shoe collection, or sort your craft stockpile. Organize your office equipment, hide overstock supplies in customized cabinets, or protect the surface of your garage floor with a durable epoxy polyaspartic finish - the possibilities are up to you.

Save Yourself Money

How many times have you searched in vain for something, purchased a new one, then found the item in question? With organized storage, keeping things in view and accessible also means

keeping money in your wallet. Efficient overhead garage storage will provide a place for rarely-used or seasonal items, helpful pantry roll-out shelves will save you from buying duplicates (while saving your back), and customized closet cubbies with accent doors will keep your “investment” handbags at their top value.

Buy Yourself Time

Hunting for the extra copy paper in your home office when you’re headed out the door to an important meeting? Searching for your child’s rain jacket when you’re late for a doctor’s appointment? Looking for the extra sleeve of golf balls when your tee time is minutes away? What do all of these stressful scenarios have in common? They could have been avoided with organized storage. Bins, drawers, shelves, cabinets, and more can be designed to fit your lifestyle. Spending minutes on mindful planning today will save hours - and your sanity - for years to come.

With the magic of made-to-measure storage you can make your home more your own. Call the experts at Closets by McKenry and Designer Garages for help, or stop by their 2,000-square-foot West Knoxville showroom to view the latest in storage design trends. Locally owned, their designers love creatively working within your budget on projects big and small for existing homes, renovations, or new builds. The only question left is this: Where will you increase your home’s ROI with custom storage design?

Closets by McKenry

201 Center Park Drive, #1070 Knoxville, TN 37922

865.249.6382

ClosetsByMcKenry.com

Designer Garages

201 Center Park Drive, #1080 Knoxville, TN 37922

865.268.4868

DesignerGarages.com

16 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Becky Hancock said that the historic venue is coming off another record-setting Broadway season. The 16 performances of Wicked this past January brought in over 25,000 attendees, including over 7,000 from outside Knox County.

With six titles and a total of 55 performances, the complete 2024-2025 lineup of the coming season Broadway ticket packages go on sale to the general public on June 24th. Subscriber benefits include first notification of season lineups, the opportunity to purchase tickets to individual shows before the general public, reduced ticket fees and the best available prices of the season, and the ability to renew the subscription for the 2023-2024 season.

Visit TennesseeTheatre.com/Broadway or call the Tennessee Theatre box office at 865-684-1200, ext. 2, Monday through Friday from 10 am to 3 pm to purchase a new subscription.

Theatre Expansion Planned

The Tennessee Theatre also announced plans to expand the Theatre to join with the 612 Building (also known as the Mechanics Bank & Trust Building) with connections from the main and balcony levels. The new space will include concessions and restrooms plus a gathering place for before and after performances. Construction has begun and is to be completed in the summer of 2025. Visit TennesseeTheatre.com/about-us/612-project for more info.

18 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
New subscription packages go on sale June 24

If you are in need of new furniture and styling, schedule a consultation with our designers. With over 65 combined years of experience, our team has been voted Knoxville's #1 Interior Designer by Cityview magazine and the Knoxville News Sentinel.

Shae Design Studio specializes in floor plans, layouts, and renderings. Our 2D renderings are proven tools for the interior design team to ensure furnishing scale and function. This presentation gives the client a visual perspective to see each piece in the design.

The SDS Showroom boasts of furniture, accessories, home decor, lighting, rugs, custom draperies, and performance fabric upholstery in the Franklin Square showroom. We are open Monday through Friday 10am - 5pm.

Our services Custom Furniture Lighting & Accessories Custom Draperies Interior Design 3D Plans & Furniture Layouts Fabric & Wallpaper Interior Design SDS Summer Showroom Sale June 17th-21st 20% Off Upholstry 50% Off Lighting 50% Off Pillows 9700 KINGSTON PIKE KNOXVILLE, TN 37922 (865) 313-26 56 50% Off Art Instagram: @shae.design.studio Facebook: @TheShaeDesignStudio www.shaedesigns.com

Custom Pull-Out Shelves for More Space, More Access, and More Joy!

Custom Solutions

ShelfGenie custom pull-out shelves are the best way to eliminate common frustrations in the kitchen, pantry, and bath. Our design will help fully utilize your space, and our shelves pull out the full depth of your cabinets so you can see, reach, and retrieve items with ease. Custom design, sturdy wood construction, quiet rails that hold up to 100 pounds per shelf, and professional installation - all backed by a lifetime guarantee - will ensure your satisfaction.

Your Experience

Getting personalized attention from the ShelfGenie team is easy. Here’s what you can expect from our custom design process.

• Free Design Consultation: Work with a ShelfGenie designer to create a custom solution to solve your home pain points, eyesores, and trouble areas.

• Custom Solution: Your personal designer will present a design plan built just for you and your needs and show you a 3D-rendered plan of what your future home will look like.

• Professional Installation: We handle it all. After measurements are taken and your products are hand-crafted, your installer comes to your home and installs everything for you in one day.

Schedule your free design consultation today! One of our talented ShelfGenie designers will come to your home and create a design plan customized just for you - no obligation required. Call us at 865-409-1197 or sign up online at ShelfGenie.com.

ShelfGenie® 865.409.1197 ShelfGenie.com
12 NO INTEREST NO PAYMENTS *On Approved Credit* MONTH *Limit one offer per household. Must purchase 5+ Classic/Designer Glide-Out Shelves. EXP 6/30/24. Independently owned and operated franchise. © 2024 ShelfGenie SPV LLC. All rights Reserved. 50% OFF INSTALL! Custom Glide-Out Shelves. Easy access, less stress, everything within reach. Call for Your FREE Design Consultation (865)409-1197 | shelfgenie.com Your kitchen wishes granted. 20 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

Lunch – Dinner – Desserts – Craft cocktails served Monday through Saturday

Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee 43rd Annual QUILT SHOW

June 21-22 • Knoxville Expo Center

THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN

Quilters of Tennessee (SMQ) will present their 43rd annual Quilt Show & Competition June 21-22 at the Knoxville Expo Center. In addition to the more than 200 stunning quilts on display, the show will feature a special opportunity for attendees to bring their own quilt to share and document through the “Go Tell It!” project by the Quilt Alliance (QA).

Attendees are encouraged to bring a quilt - whether historic or contemporary - to the show for documentation. The formula for “Go Tell It!” is simple: One person talking about one quilt in front of one camera for three minutes. Visit QuiltAlliance.org/projects/gotellit for more information about the “Go Tell It!” projects.

“We are excited to offer this free service to those attending our show,” said Janet

Wambach, SMQ Show Co-Chair. “Every quilt has a story, and those stories are an important part of our history and our culture. So many of them go untold, because we know little or nothing about the quilts that makers and owners leave behind.”

The show takes place from 9 am to 5 pm on Friday and from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday. Admission is $10 or $15 for a 2-day pass, and children under age 12 are free. The Expo Center has free parking and is accessible to the disabled. For more information about the show and the guild, visit SmokyMtnQuilters.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram @Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee.

About Smoky Mountain Quilters

The Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Guild meetings are typically on the

first Tuesday of each month at Messiah Lutheran Church at the intersection of Papermill Drive and Kingston Pike in Knoxville. A 6:30 pm social time precedes the formal meeting, which begins at 7 pm. Please check the SMQ website, as dates and locations may vary.

SMQ’s primary goals are to promote and encourage the knowledge of quilt making as an art and a craft, to study its history as an integral part of our past, and to promote friendship through shared activities. Guild activities include workshops, block drawings, exhibits, and quilts made for local charities. The guild’s more than 100 members are as diverse as the quilts they love - traditional and art quilts, complex and minimalist modern designs, miniatures and bed-sized, and hand- or machine-stitched.

June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 21

TENNESSEE RECONNECT

FREE COLLEGE TUITION. FREE COLLEGE COUNSELING AND SUPPORT.

DID I read that correctly? Free? Yes, you did! Tennessee Reconnect is a last-dollar grant for adult Tennesseans 23 and older interested in returning to or enrolling in postsecondary education for the first time. Have you been thinking about going back to school to earn a degree or credential? Have you considered enrolling for the first time? Do you have a dream or passion you’d like to pursue? Does the cost of college give you pause? Then you’re in the right spot to read on! My name is Lori Lesslie, and I’m a Reconnect Navigator with Tennessee Reconnect, serving both Knox and Blount counties.

Why
“Thank you for all your help and support! Reconnect has truly changed my life.”
- Recent graduate who used TN Reconnect and worked with a Navigator

are adults interested in or hoping to return to school?

When I ask adults about their why, I have the privilege and honor of hearing so many stories. The students I work with have shared:

“It’s been a dream, and I’m at a place in life where I now want to pursue it.”

“I have children now, and I want to do this for them.”

“I started college right out of high school, wasn’t doing well in my classes, really care about school, so I stopped attending.”

“I want to increase my earning potential.”

“I’m ready for a career change.”

“I need a degree to be promoted in my place of work.”

“I have a passion I want to pursue.”

“It’s been a personal goal for me to finish what I started.”

What is Tennessee Reconnect?

Tennessee Reconnect is a grant for adults to earn an associate degree, technical certificate, or technical diploma tuition free. The grant can be used at a Tennessee community college or technical college. When you hear Tennessee Reconnect, think free tuition. The grant covers tuition and mandatory fees if eligibility requirements are met.

What are the eligibility requirements?

• Be a Tennessee resident

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

• Complete the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and be classified as an independent student OR be at least 23 years of age on or before January 1st of the academic year

• Not be incarcerated*

• Not have previously earned an associate or baccalaureate degree; exception: TCAT (Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology) Reconnect remain eligible even with degree

• Not be in default on a student loan program

“My daughter and I both graduated. It was a pretty special evening. Thank you for all of your support the past few years.”
- Recent graduate who used TN Reconnect and worked with a Navigator

TN Reconnect Fact vs. Fiction

Fiction: My previous college GPA makes me ineligible to receive TN Reconnect.

Fact: Your previous college GPA does not impact TN Reconnect eligibility.

• Not owe an outstanding balance to an institution

• Be admitted to an eligible institution and enrolled at least part-time (minimum 6 hours) in courses leading to a certificate or associate degree

• If attending TCAT, be admitted and enrolled full-time and in pursuit of a certificate or diploma

*Currently incarcerated individuals (if eligible) may work with Re-Entry Navigators to prepare for attendance upon release. Learn more by visiting TNReconnect.gov.

What is Navigate Reconnect?

Navigate Reconnect is the regionally-based component of Tennessee Reconnect and focuses on providing one-on-one guidance to and through your college journey so you feel supported at every step. We have Navigators located throughout the state in order to provide specific support where you live. Reconnect Navigators partner with community leaders, employers, and higher education institutions across four Navigate regions statewide to support and engage adult learners: Northeast TN, East TN, Middle TN, and West TN. When you hear Navigate Reconnect, think free college counseling and support throughout your college journey.

What does a Reconnect Navigator do? A Navigator provides:

• Help and direction with college admissions

• Guidance in understanding your financial aid & college costs

• Connections to your community resources

• Connections to your college’s resources

• Support throughout your entire college journey

Navigators are here to listen to your aspirations, answer your questions, help with next steps, and support you along the way. You don’t know what you don’t know, and we’re here to offer guidance and encouragement so you don’t have to go it alone.

How do I connect with a Navigator?

Easy! If you or someone you know has ever thought, “I’d like to go back to school, but I’m not sure how that works,” then all you need to do is scan the QR code, complete a short interest form, and someone will be in touch to connect with you.

Fiction: All classes are on a college campus.

Fact: There are flexible class options to meet your needs.

Fiction: I’m not a U.S. citizen and won’t qualify for the TN Reconnect Grant.

Fact: Financial aid is available for eligible non-citizens.

Fiction: I don’t make enough to pay for college.

Fact: Tennessee Reconnect covers tuition and mandatory fees.

Fiction: My salary is too high to be eligible for TN Reconnect.

Fact: Income does not affect your TN Reconnect eligibility.

Fiction: I’m required to attend college full time to receive TN Reconnect.

Fact: TN Reconnect only requires parttime enrollment.

How It Began...

Tennessee Reconnect was established in 2018 as part of the Drive to 55 initiative. Drive to 55 was launched in 2013 to increase the number of Tennesseans with a postsecondary degree or certificate to 55% by 2025 and is changing the landscape of what is possible in Tennessee public higher education, its workforce, and economy. Tennessee Reconnect enhances these possibilities and solidifies Tennessee’s standing as the nation’s leader in higher education, innovation, and opportunity.

Achieve a Spotless Epoxy Garage Floor in Three Simple Steps

AS SPRING blossoms and summer looms, it’s time to bid farewell to the winter grime and dirt that have accumulated on your PremierGarage floor. Fear not, for cleaning it is a breeze.

While renowned for its durability and resistance to slips and stains, a PremierGarage floor coating, like any other surface, requires regular cleaning to maintain its allure. Mastering the art of garage floor care ensures lasting functionality and satisfaction with your investment.

Step 1:

Clear Away Loose Debris

Start by clearing the garage floor of any items, allowing for full exposure. Sweep or vacuum the floor to eliminate dirt, sand, or other debris. Ensure thorough cleaning under cabinets, workbenches, or appliances. Before proceeding to step two, shield the garage infrared door sensors with small plastic baggies to prevent moisture.

Step 2: Scrub the Surface

The most effective method for cleaning is to use a mop. Opt for a heavy-duty cotton mop, and consider using a rolling bucket for convenience, as you’ll need to rinse the

mop section by section. Exercise caution to prevent excess water accumulation, as it can lead to slippery conditions. For cleaning solutions that both cleanse and protect the finish, consider using ammonia. Mix five ounces of clear ammonia per gallon of water. Alternatively, a diluted solution of a degreaser like Simple Green, mixed with one-half cup per gallon of water, works well.

Step

3: Rinse and Dry

Utilize a hose with a spray nozzle to thoroughly rinse the floor. Begin at the highest point at the back of the garage, as the floor naturally slopes towards the driveway. Be mindful of limiting water splashes on wooden components under cabinets. Direct the hose towards the middle from the back and sides, then out the door. To expedite drying and ensure no residual puddles remain, employ a floor squeegee (18 or 24 inches for efficiency) or a clean street broom. Follow the same back-and-sidesto-middle technique. Remove the plastic baggies from the garage door sensors to complete the process.

If you’ve yet to install a PremierGarage

GROW YOUR BUSINESS with

Not only is Everything Knoxville delivered in-home by the U.S. Postal Service to hundreds of area neighborhoods, we now reach new Knox County homeowners, too. Knoxville is growing - with new homes, new neighborhoods, and new homeowners arriving daily. In response to this growth, we have expanded our distribution to include these new upper-income residents. Our unique distribution reaches 3x the households of other local publicationsproviding maximum exposure for our advertisers.

As a trusted resource for more than 18 years, Everything Knoxville continues to point customers toward reputable, reliable local businesses.

Interested in learning more about how our services and new advertiser special offers can help your business grow?

floor, consider its array of benefits:

• Enhances the resale value of your home

• Improves safety with slip, impact, and heat resistance while brightening the area with increased light reflectivity

• Expands the utility of your garage, whether as a children’s play area, an exercise room, or a hobby nook

Contact PremierGarage of Knoxville at 865-947-8686 to explore the remarkable affordability of transforming your garage space.

Contact Kendra at info@EverythingKnoxville.com or call 865.640.3015.

Knoxville’s Most Widely Distributed Magazine 865.640.3015 | EVERYTHINGKNOXVILLE.COM
TAKEADVANTAGE OFOURNEW ADVERTISER “TEST-DRIVE” PACKAGES
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24 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

THEFESTIVAL on the 4th delivers a wide variety of family fun, including entertainment, activities, and treats at the City of Knoxville’s 4th of July celebration at the World’s Fair Park. The free festival begins at 5 pm and ends at approximately 10 pm at the conclusion of the fireworks display.

Throughout the day, festival goers will be treated to good music, good food, good fun, and good times on the Festival and Performance Lawns of the World’s Fair Park. From 5 to 8 pm, the Festival Lawn will be filled with fun activities to please kids of all ages such as miniature golf with Holes to Go and Paddle Boats in the lake at World’s Fair Park.

Live music begins at 5 pm, and the musical finale will be performed starting at 8 pm by the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. They will present the 40th annual Pilot Flying J Independence Day Concert. This is a free concert - no ticket required! Fireworks begin at 9:35 pm.

Free parking is available at World’s Fair & Blackstock Parking Lots, 11th Street, Locust Street, Walnut Street, State Street, and Market Square Garages. ADA parking will be available.

The event is rain or shine. No pets, alcohol, or personal tents or tent canopies will be permitted. For more information, call the Knoxville Office of Special Events at 865-215-4248.

5
• FREE EVENT • LIVE MUSIC • FIREWORKS June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 25
TO 10 PM

INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &

PAINTED TREE BOUTIQUES

Custom, laser engraved wooden serving boards by Wel-Don Designs and Wade Humphries. Locally made, Veteran owned, and the perfect gift for Father’s Day! Available in booth A7 at the Painted Tree Boutiques, 9630 Kingston Pike in Knoxville, 865.343.0143, PaintedTree.com.

MAKER EXCHANGE

Visit the Curio at Maker Exchange and shop locally-made artwork from 150+ makers. These are a collection of vases by Knoxvillebased ceramicist Hsiu-yi Lai. Stop by at 710 Clinch Avenue in downtown Knoxville between the Marriott and Tennessean Hotels, 865.637.4561, or shop online at MakerExchangeKnox.com.

MAKE IT YOURS

Looking for a memorable birthday, wedding, or Father’s Day gift? Custom laser engraved or printed leatherette wallets or classic flasks - with 3 shot glasses included - are perfect for any occasion. Uniquely personalized with your message, concept, or design! Available at Make It Yours, 10541 Kingston Pike, Suite A in Knoxville, 865.444.6253, MakeItYoursNow.com.

26 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

865LIFE®

Get dad the perfect t-shirt to show his Tennessee Pride! Many styles to choose from along with hats, stickers, bandanas and more. Order online at 865life.com or check their Facebook and Instagram for Pop-up Shop locations around Knoxville and surrounding areas. 865LIFE - MORE THAN A NUMBER…IT’S HOME.®

LAMON JEWELERS

The Outlier by Ball Watches is the original railroad watch. Swiss-made timepieces with years of history and timeless design. Special Father’s Day pricing through June 15th. Available at Lamon Jewelers’ new location at 11237 Parkside Drive in Turkey Creek, 865.690.9568, LamonJewelers.com.

MEADOW VIEW GREENHOUSES & GARDEN CENTER

Create your own unique Enchanted Garden with adorable resin fairies, woodland creatures, accessories, and even Sasquatch. Hurry in while the selection is good! Available at Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center, 9885 Highway 11E in Lenoir City, 865.986.7229, MeadowViewGreenhouse.com.

@tassiwilliamsphotography @bigslatemedia June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 27

Where Legends Live and Music Gives Back

MUSIC

AFICIONADOS, get ready to rock, reminisce, and rejoice! Concerts For Our Own (CFOO) is back with a lineup that’s set to electrify, inspire, and transport you through the annals of music history.

The Joy of Music School has partnered with CFOO, a multi-concert series that provides an opportunity for local, regional, and national not-for-profit organizations and businesses to showcase their causes and raise money for their organizations through live music. The five-part concert series will be held at the Tennessee Amphitheater in World’s Fair Park. All shows begin at 7:30 pm.

Concert series lineup:

• June 13: Steve Augeri, former lead vocalist for Journey

• July 6: Taylor Nation

• August 15: Exodus - The Bob Marley Tribute

• October 18: Marshall Charloff & The Purple Xperience

• November 1: Here Come The Mummies with Wolves of Glendale

Each show will spotlight partnering organizations, and all ticket proceeds will support the Joy of Music School, Knoxville P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative, and The Love Kitchen. For more information or tickets, visit ConcertsForOurOwn.org.

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Summertime at Cheekwood

A summer season of art, gardens, music, classic cars, and more

THE SUMMER calendar is heating up at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, with a lineup of activities and programs visitors won’t want to miss. From exhibitions by world-renowned artists, to captivating evening concerts, to a celebration of Black art and culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Cheekwood now through August.

Trolls: Save the Humans Now through September 1

The imaginative exhibition Trolls: Save the Humans by artist Thomas Dambo blends art, nature, and messages of

sustainability. Six g iant trolls are intertwined with Cheekwood’s unique gardens, trees, and historic landscape for a one-of-a-kind storytelling experience. Denmark-based recycle artist Dambo brings a creative approach to his multifaceted installations. His vision is to create art that inspires people to have adventures in nature and demonstrate that trash can be turned into something beautiful. Children and adults alike will enjoy imagining each of the six featured trolls’ tales while considering their messages to humankind.

Thursday Night Out

Now through October 26

Enjoy an enchanting experience set amidst the breathtaking beauty of the gardens. The weekly event features a blend of food, drink, and a diverse range of music. Guests can enjoy seasonal beers, expertly crafted cocktails, and delicious bites created by Café 29 and local food trucks. On Thursday nights in August, visitors are invited to bring their best four-legged friends for Dog Nights of Summer. Human and canine participants can browse dog-themed vendors and enjoy music, libations, and dog-friendly fun.

Photos courtesy of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 32 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
Photo by Mary Craven Photography

Exposition of Elegance:

Classic Cars at Cheekwood

June 15 & 16

Cruise into Cheekwood and celebrate Father’s Day weekend while strolling among more than 100 impeccably maintained classic cars and vintage motorcycles at the historic estate. See the original components, accessories, and detailing that make these automobiles special. Vintage motorcycles, including a 1933 Harley Davidson VC with sidecar, will also be on display inside Massey Hall. Visitors can step back to the mid-20th century and enjoy the sounds of a barbershop quartet, hands-on activities for children, cold brews and cocktails, and tasty fare from local food trucks. The weekend culminates with a Tour d’Elegance through the streets of the city of Belle Meade.

INTERVENTIONS:

Ann Carrington June 29October 27

Internationally known sculptor

Ann Carrington’s ornate work will be on display as a part of the latest installment of the INTERVENTIONS series. Carrington is well-known for working with discarded and found objects. Her eccentric and elegant pieces breathe new life into otherwise mundane items like knives, spoons, buttons, cans, and coins by unraveling their associations and assigning new meaning as sculpture.

INTERVENTIONS: Ann Carrington will be the largest iteration of the series, featuring 33 works throughout the period rooms in the historic mansion inspired by Cheekwood’s gardens and the Cheek family.

Under the Stars Concert Series

The Under the Stars Concert Series returns, offering the unforgettable opportunity to enjoy the sounds of music’s most in-demand performers and players from across the nation under the night sky at Cheekwood. Over five magical evenings, music fills the air while food trucks prepare mouthwatering bites and vendors offer wines by the bottle, local brews, and craft cocktails. The diverse music lineup includes jazz, bluegrass, and songwriters’ nights.

Jazz Under the Stars

July 19

The genre-defying New Orleans icons

The Dirty Dozen Brass Band headline this extraordinary night. Their sound, self-described as a “musical gumbo,” is renowned globally, promising an unforgettable sonic

journey. Known for high-energy performances, this group is synonymous with exhilarating shows where they combine a dynamic fusion of upbeat brass arrangements with bebop jazz, funk, and R&B. This freewheeling celebration kicks off with a stellar performance by the 18-piece Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra.

Songwriters Under the Stars

August 23-25

Top Nashville hitmakers and musicians perform in a one-of-a-kind setting. Nestled on gorgeous Swan Lawn, the concert features chart-toppers Wendell Mobley, Kelly Archer, and Lee Thomas Miller sharing songs and stories, accompanied by the renowned String Light Symphony.

Bluegrass Under the Stars

September 6

Iconic bluegrass legend Sam Bush performs against the picturesque backdrop of Cheekwood’s gardens. The multifaceted Bush is a national champion fiddler, an award-winning mandolin player, and a trailblazing vocalist and musician whose influence resonates across generations. The bluegrass titan is decorated with multiple accolades, including Grammys and International Bluegrass Music Awards. This will be an unforgettable night of mastery and timeless tunes under the starlit sky. Opening the show is the all-female bluegrass supergroup Davidson County String Band, featuring Cristina Vane, Brenna MacMillan, Libby Weitnauer, and Vicki Vaughn.

Black Arts Bash

August 17

One of the most anticipated events of the summer pays tribute to Black history, art, and culture. From morning until night, Cheekwood celebrates Black artists with music, dance, spoken word, visual art, and more. Attendees can explore and experience the many forms of Black musical expression and traditions. Other offerings include hands-on activities for kids and southern home-cooked favorites made by local Black chefs available for purchase. In addition, an exhibition of art from emerging

and established artists will be on view in the Frist Learning Center.

For the full list of summer programming and events, visit Cheekwood.org.

About Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

With its intact and picturesque vistas, Cheekwood is distinguished as one of the leading Country Place Era estates in the nation. Formerly the family home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, the 1930s estate, with its 30,000-square-foot Mansion and 55 acres of gardens, today serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum, and art museum with furnished period rooms and permanent collection galleries devoted to American art from the 18th to mid-20th centuries. The property includes 13 distinct gardens, including the Blevins Japanese Garden and the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden, as well as a 1.5-mile woodland trail featuring outdoor monumental sculpture. Each year, Cheekwood hosts seasonal festivals including Cheekwood in Bloom, Summertime at Cheekwood, Cheekwood Harvest, and Holiday LIGHTS.

Cheekwood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and nationally as a Level II Arboretum. It is a three-time voted USA Today Top 10 Botanical Garden and in 2021 was recognized by Fodor’s as one of the 12 Most Beautiful Gardens in the American South. Cheekwood is located eight miles southwest of downtown Nashville at 1200 Forrest Park Drive. It is open Tuesday through Sunday 9 am to 5 pm, with extended days and hours of operation depending on the season.

Photo by Weatherly Hulsey
June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 33
Photography by Ann Carrington Studio Spiderfolk, 2022, Steel, brass and bronze.

Taco Tuesday Board

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project’s “Come Graze With Us” e-cookbook

Ingredients:

• Guacamole

• Salsa

• Queso

• Hard and soft taco shells

• Ground turkey, seasoned and browned

• Lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Shredded cheese

• Chopped onions

• Chopped peppers

• Sour cream

• Cilantro

• Lime wedges

Directions:

On grazing board or platter, arrange guacamole, salsa, queso, taco shells, ground turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, onions, peppers, sour cream, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Weekend Breakfast Grazing Board

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project’s “Come Graze With Us” e-cookbook

Ingredients:

• Hard-boiled eggs

• Cooked sausage links

• Mini frozen waffles, toasted

• Mini frozen pancakes, toasted

• Mini muffins

• Yogurt

• Fresh fruit

• Syrup

• Jelly

Directions:

On grazing board or platter, arrange eggs, sausage links, toasted waffles, toasted pancakes, muffins, yogurt, fruit, syrup, and jelly.

ABEAUTIFULLY designed charcuterie board may feel more like a grown-up treat, but with the right ingredients, delicious grazing boards can provide fun and nutrition for the whole family. No matter what you call it, charcuterie boards, grazing boards, and snack platters are all basically the same thing. The boards make a trendy addition to an entertaining menu, but a platter or kid-friendly board can be equally pleasing. What you serve on a grazing board is entirely up to you. Most include a selection of meats and cheeses, and many incorporate nuts, crackers, dips, and jams. Some also incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables. Creating your own board means there really are no rules; you can add just about anything you want.

To build a successful board, keep these tips in mind:

Choose ingredients and elements that don’t require temperature control. The idea of a grazing board is that it sits out for a while. Avoid anything that needs refrigeration, heat, or will lose its shape or flavor if it rests for an extended amount of time.

Select a surface large enough to hold a variety of food. It can be a simple cutting board or a cute platter. There’s no specific size requirement, but err on the side of bigger; spacing out your goodies can be more attractive and less

Use high-quality ingredients to ensure every bite is delicious and nutritious. While shopping, remember to look for the Produce for Kids and Healthy Family Project logos next to favorite items in the produce department, as adding these flavorful fruits and veggies to your cart can help make a difference in your community.

Build your board around a theme to add an extra element of fun. Use mini cookie cutters to make fun, kid-friendly shapes out of cheese and meats. Be mindful of colors; a rainbow platter is vibrant and appealing, and colorful fruits and veggies offer a strong mix of nutrients.

Remember it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Classic favorites are all you need. Even kid favorites like sections of mandarin oranges, carrot sticks, and chocolate chips are fair game for a family-friendly board.

Find more ideas for creating family-friendly treats at HealthyFamilyProject.com.

COURTESY OF FFE
Create a Family-Friendly
Grazing Board
34 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

Southern Grit Where Comfort Food Meets Culinary Excellence

LOCATED ON the corner of South Central Street in Knoxville’s historic Old City, Southern Grit is a popular local brunch, lunch, and dinner spot that offers a wide variety of Southern favorites. The rustic décor and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. This is why I always recommend Southern Grit when friends ask where they should go for brunch or dinner.

For weekend brunch, Southern Grit offers a spread that caters to both traditionalists and adventurous palates alike. The brunch menu has classic favorites such as biscuits and gravy and chicken biscuits alongside innovative offerings such as fluffy biscuit French toast with lemon mascarpone and berry compote. Whether you are craving a sweet or savory option, Southern Grit has just that - and this is why it is such a popular brunch spot.

As for the dinner menu, it’s nothing short of spectacular. While I have ordered almost everything they have to offer at this point, my favorite is the legendary meatloaf, a comforting classic elevated to new heights

with au jus drizzle on top. My second favorite would have to be the jambalaya pasta - combining tender chicken, spicy Andouille sausage, and pasta in a rich Creole sauce that leaves taste buds tingling with delight. Of course, the fried chicken is a beloved Southern staple - crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor! Speaking of crispy, I could not get enough

of the fried Brussels sprouts. They come as a side or as an appetizer if you feel like sharing. This doesn’t even scratch the surface of everything they have to offer, making Southern Grit a must-visit for anyone craving hearty, soulful Southern flare.

Every experience I have at Southern Grit in the Old City is one to remember. Hats off to the owners - they have created a culinary gem that effortlessly captures the essence of Southern cuisine. It is the perfect place to gather with loved ones and enjoy a hearty meal together. Be sure to check out their weekly happy hour specials from 3:30 to 6:30 pmand tell them Kelly’s Belly sent you!

@KellysBellyEatsLocal June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 35

NOT JUST THE DOG: How to Protect Yourself from Ticks

COURTESY OF BPT

DID YOU KNOW people do more to defend their pets from ticks than for themselves? Pet owners are nearly three times as likely to always protect their pets from ticks than to always protect themselves (36% versus 14%), while only a third (31%) of all Americans are consistently taking measures to protect themselves. Pets are well taken care of, since 85% of dog or cat owners take action to safeguard pets from ticks in some way, such as a tick collar.*

A recent survey for OFF! ® brand insect repellents by The Harris Poll also found that many people are unclear about where ticks live. Three in four Americans (75%) know ticks typically live in wooded areas, yet only half know ticks can live in suburban backyards - and 51% mistakenly think you can avoid ticks by staying in low grass.

Knowing facts about ticks, which may carry Lyme disease, and other bothersome pests is key to defending yourself and your family as you enjoy time outdoors.

Here are tips from Dr. Tom Mascari, SC Johnson’s Center for Insect Science entomologist, to help you keep pests at bay. Snap a pic of the tick

Whether you’re hiking for an hour or camping in a suburban backyard, it helps to know what you could encounter. There are around 80-90 tick species in the U.S. that survive in varying conditions, but only a small percentage of these species may transmit diseases. Reviewing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Tickborne Diseases of the United States guide and the Environmental Protection Agency’s repellent search tool can help you find an appropriate repellent to avoid tick bites.

It’s important to learn where these arachnids live to defend against them. If you encounter a tick, take a picture of it so you can look it up online and discover if the species of tick you encountered can transmit a pathogen in your area. While not all ticks carry illnesses like Lyme disease, they can cause irritation, discomfort, and skin damage - a nuisance to spending time outdoors. Choose the right “PREtection”

Instead of waiting until after you’ve been bitten by bugs, add “PREtection,” a word inspired by expert SC Johnson entomologists, to protect against bug-related risk ahead of time, even before playing with the kids in the yard.

ACCORDING TO THE TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH…

• There are six key species of ticks that live in our state.

• Camping, gardening, or hunting could bring you in close contact with ticks.

• Many people get ticks in their own yard or neighborhood.

• Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of your body when checking for ticks.

• Showering within two hours of coming indoors has been shown to reduce your risk of getting Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases.

“Ticks love the places you do,” said Dr. Mascari, “and they can live in places beyond wooded areas, so it’s vital to defend against them when spending time outdoors.”

No matter your lifestyle or where you’re heading, OFF! brand recommends various repellent options to keep you protected with a variety of formats and quality active ingredients:

• OFF! ® Clean Feel products are perfect for everyday use. These fragrance-free repellents provide non-sticky protection proven to repel ticks (including ticks that may carry Lyme disease) and mosquitoes (that may carry the Zika, West Nile, or Dengue virus). Formulated with Picaridin, which is not greasy or oily, it feels good on skin and won’t damage clothing.

• OFF! ® Deep Woods® Insect Repellent V (Ticks) is formulated with 25% DEET to provide long-lasting protection against ticks (including ticks that may carry Lyme disease), mosquitoes (that may carry the

Zika, West Nile or Dengue virus), biting flies, stable flies, black flies, sandflies, chiggers, fleas, and gnats so you can enjoy the outdoors, uninterrupted.

• OFF! ® FamilyCare Insect Repellent IV (Unscented) provides the right level of protection for spending shorter times outside. With aloe vera and 7% DEET, this is the perfect choice for the whole family for feel-good mosquito protection. This product repels ticks (including ticks that may carry Lyme disease), mosquitoes (including mosquitoes that may carry Zika virus and West Nile virus), biting flies, gnats, “no-see-ums,” and chiggers.

Consider your clothing

When temperatures are 45°F or higher, ticks can be active. Further protect yourself by opting for long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked in socks. Light-colored clothing also makes it easier to see ticks. For more information, check out the CDC guidance on preventing tick bites.

Set up outdoor defenses

Creating a tick defense barrier in your backyard can help safeguard you and your family. Consider stone walls or other physical barriers to separate moisture-prone zones where ticks may live (with more vegetation) from your lawn or outdoor living spaces.

“Ticks cannot jump or fly, but they can be carried by animals like dogs, cats, deer, rodents, and birds,” added Dr. Mascari. “A physical barrier makes it harder for ticks and their hosts to get to your favorite outdoor hangouts.”

Check for ticks

When coming inside, make it a habit to check everyone - not just the dog - for ticks.

“Ticks migrate from lower limbs and arms to more dark and humid areas like waistbands, scalps, and ears, and they may be as small as a poppy or apple seed. If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible with tweezers, then clean the bite area,” advised Dr. Mascari. Ticks can also be carried into the house on clothing. To eliminate them, dry clothes on high heat for 10 minutes or wash them in hot water.

By taking these precautions before enjoying the great outdoors - and checking for ticks when you return - you’ll help ensure everyone has a happier, healthier time, all season long.

*This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of OFF! from March 28-April 1, 2024, among 2,066 adults ages 18 and older, among whom 1,392 are dog/cat owners.

A place to socialize, grab a drink or bite, and discover

artists + makers at World’s Fair Park 200+ MAKERS

Shop locally-made artwork in the Curio or 24/7 online

Weekly entertainment curated by Dogwood Arts

Group classes covering a variety of mediums

Historic Jackson Square in Oak Ridge Saturday, June 15 8 am to 4 pm

THE LAVENDER FESTIVAL on Jackson Square in Oak Ridge celebrates health, herbs, and the environment. You’ll find everything from homemade jam to fine art. Admission is free with plenty of free parking available. Along with all things lavender, from candles to soaps to teas, enjoy the sounds of music floating through the square from the large festival tent as you stroll along vendor booths offering crafts, fine art, carvings, pottery, and so much more. There will be more than 150 artisans, a children’s art workshop, cooking demonstrations, and educational presentations! Additional ticketed events include Herb Lunch, Tour of Gardens, Nine Lakes Wine Tasting, and Herbalicious Cooking. See JacksonSquareLavenderFestival. org for ticket prices and availability.

M A KE R E XC H A NG E KN O X . C O M 710 CL I NC H A V EN U E, K N O X V I L LE, T N 379 0 2
The Tavern is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch + dinner
Knoxville’s
LIVE MUSIC MAKER WORKSHOPS FOOD + DRINK
June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 37
Garrett Durland

Are You Evaluating Yourself Accurately?

I’M SOMETIMES asked, “What brings clients to your website or business?” My quick answer is “pain.” Then I’ll explain, “Most of us have a deep desire to be competent and capable of solving our own life problems. It’s painful to embrace the idea that we can’t fix ourselves or that we’re not as capable as we would like to be.”

This is especially true in the age of “Insta” communication and instant gratification. Human beings weren’t designed to handle mass exposure to the polished highlights of people beyond our immediate circles. Yet, our lives are constantly inundated with information about what we should do (or have) to make us better, more competent, attractive, or complete.

It’s common for prospective clients to share feelings of inadequacy, or even shame, because they haven’t attained the career clarity or “success” they see in others. Executives and managers are frustrated that the newest business principles and ideas from podcasts and “how-to” books haven’t worked for them. And in everyday life, I hear disillusioned people share that

they, their lives, or their families aren’t what they’d expected or hoped.

How do we evaluate (dare I say “judge?”) our lives accurately? What solid criteria determines if you’re on track?

The first key is to realize that you, and the life you live, are supposed to be unique. That sounds simple, even stupid-simple, but ask yourself how often you compare yourself or your life to someone or someone else’s life. For most of us, the answer is pretty often.

Comparing ourselves and our lives to others’ starts young. Dozens of my clients declare that they wish they could “live up to” the lives of their parents, friends, or life heroes. Too many speak of themselves as failures because they haven’t attained the clarity or success that they see in the lives of the people they admire.

However, you and I have been uniquely designed and given life experiences that differentiate us from everyone who ever lived before or after us, including our parents, friends, and life heroes. Your life isn’t supposed to be a clone of someone else or their life. Your “wiring” and your unique life experiences (positive and negative) give you one-of-a-kind potential to make a positive impact on the world.

The second evaluation key is to gain a clear understanding of the higher ideals that you want to characterize your life, then live by those ideals . The adage that “the man (or woman) who aims at nothing is sure to hit it” is a powerful truth. When we don’t clearly understand the impact we want to have on the people and world around us, then we’re apt to flit from one transient (and often self-serving) goal to another. If you know exactly what you want your life to stand for, then you can reverse-engineer it to ensure you achieve those things. Of course, knowing what you want your life to stand for first requires a sober appraisal of your own priorities. What is most important and worthwhile to YOU? Once you’ve established your own life priorities, then you can ask what traits and actions you need to apply to each day and season of your life. It’s heeding Steven Covey’s wise advice that you “begin with the end in mind.”1

The third key is to apply the right metric or standard for self-evaluation. Students and employees know the frustration of being graded or evaluated based on someone’s opinion rather than objective standards. Even in a world of “relative truth,” we still need objective standards for evaluating ourselves and our lives, rather than the fleeting whims, demands, and moods we experience daily. Likewise, evaluating yourself accurately requires objective standards that are accurate measures of your life priorities to know whether you are (or aren’t) hitting the targets you’ve set for yourself.

For example, my standard for evaluating my work cannot be whether my clients like me or think I’m doing a good job, but rather whether I am doing the things needed to effectively guide my clients to work and life strategies that fit their goals. This requires me to evaluate my efforts humbly and objectively, with an understanding that I can (and should) always be striving to get better at what I do.

This approach can be applied to our relationships, our health, our spiritual life - just about any facet of our lives. Asking “What are the standards for living the great life to which I aspire?” and then living to meet those gives us a consistent framework for attaining those things. No one lives a great life by accident; great lives happen intentionally.

Would you like help identifying the unique gifting and experiences, higher ideals, and standards that will guide you toward an intentional and impactful life? Then visit DrJimBailey.com/contact. It’s free and I’m always glad to talk.

1 The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven R. Covey

38 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

REDISCOVER THE GREAT OUT-OF-DOORS ALL YEAR-ROUND

WHY NOT let the professionals at Undercover Systems help you take full advantage of unlimited out-of-door events this season for your family and friends to enjoy all year round? Now is the ideal time to get the totally unique and proprietary underdeck ceiling system from Undercover Systems installed under your home’s existing raised decks. This underdeck system will ensure that all your gatherings will be protected from unexpected and unwanted rain, searing summertime sun, and next winter’s snow and ice.

“Right now is the perfect time to weatherproof all of your outof-door events,” said Jim Conn, owner of Undercover Systems. “Throughout the entire process, our skilled craftsmen work with you, each step of the way, until your project is completed to your total satisfaction. And because your project will be completed this spring, you can begin enjoying your new outdoor living spaces before barbeque season heats up.”

Undercover’s patented underdecking system is designed by and manufactured exclusively by Undercover Systems, unlike other installers that use off-the-shelf, one-size-fits-all underdecking products. And because Undercover’s system is supported entirely by their patented drain system - and not your deck - air is free to circulate ensuring the longevity of your deck’s wooden structural supports, preventing them from premature failure.

You’ll appreciate Undercover Systems’ attention to detail as they help you craft a seamless transition from your home’s interior to

your new out-of-door living spaces. Underdeck ceilings come in a variety of colors and textures to perfectly complement your existing architecture and landscaping. You will also appreciate that every decking project is personally supervised by Jim and that Undercover Systems is a complaint-free member of the Better Business Bureau. Why not delight your family this spring with a special gift that everyone can appreciate all year long? Extend the enjoyment of your out-of-door spaces, protect your family from the elements, and begin creating a lifetime of memories with the experienced professionals at Undercover Systems. Call Jim at 423-267-0091 today to start celebrating your out-of-doors now and for all the seasons to come.

423-267-0091 | UndercoverSystems.com SEE MORE INCREDIBLE TRANSFORMATIONS! PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA AND BACKED BY A TRUE LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY Consumers’ Choice Award Winner Since 2005 Create a Dry, Useable, and Beautiful Area Under Your Deck FINANCING AVAILABLE INVENTED IT. WE PATENTED IT. STAND BEHIND IT. WE WE WITH AN UNDERDECK CEILING EXPAND YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE WHY USE UNDERCOVER SYSTEMS? WHY USE UNDERCOVER SYSTEMS?
Undercover Systems 423.267.0091 UndercoverSystems.com
June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 39

CLASSIC ROCK aficionados are all quite aware of the place that great songs from great bands from our youth hold in our minds and hearts today. Bands like Derek and the Dominos and their huge hit “Layla,” George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, the Rolling Stones’ album Exile on Main St. , Buddy Guy’s Sweet Tea album, and Delaney & Bonnie and Friends’ hit “Never Ending Song of Love,” among many others.

One common thread among those great bands and songs is Bobby Whitlock. Memphis born and bred, Bobby is a master musician and has either written or co-written the above songs, as well as played and sung on them.

It comes as no surprise that Memphis is bestowing one of its most prestigious honors to their homeboy by giving Bobby Whitlock his own Brass Music Note on the Beale Street Walk of Fame. Beale Street is one of the world’s most iconic streets. It is a National Historic Landmark. It’s three blocks of clubs, restaurants, and shops in downtown Memphis that are devoted to music. Memphis is the “Home of the Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” and Beale Street is a melting pot of Delta Blues, Jazz, Rock, R&B, and Gospel. There is no other place like it, and every musician knows the magic of Beale Street and Memphis Music.

During the redevelopment of Beale Street, a program was started of awarding Brass Music Notes honoring the musicians and music industry people who made Memphis Music and Beale Street known throughout the world. The Notes are embedded into the sidewalks of the street. Consequently, it’s no surprise that Bobby Whitlock’s Brass Music Note is being added to this illustrious list of music giants this year.

Asked about how he felt about receiving such a distinctive honor, Bobby said, “Well, there was a point in time where I really didn’t think anybody cared. I knew they acknowledged my input on all those great records, you know, ‘Layla’ and All Things Must Pass. There’s a list of them. But, you know, I didn’t think too much about my past, and how

BOBBY WHITLOCK Gets the Recognition He Deserves

people felt about it was not my business; it was not my affair how anyone feels.

“My business is to try to conduct myself as a decent person and a gentleman as much as I can, get through this world, navigate through this without making too many waves. But when you make them, make them big - ones to remember. All of the sudden, everything seems to have turned around, and I wasn’t looking for it, that’s for sure.

“I knew my input and I was good with it. I was all right with myself whether anybody ever acknowledged anything I’ve ever done or not, I was good with it. I’ve got a great life. I paint every day. I’m really good with doing what I do. It’s just another extension of who I am. And I’ve been blessed in each and every way, everywhere I turn around, you know, it’s just nothing but a blessing for me.”

Bobby and I also talked about looking back on his career. He told me about the early days when the creativity was flowing and he was working with others on new, but now classic, songs and recordings.

“I was the first ‘friend’ - it started out with Delaney & Bonnie and me. And then people came to us. He (Delaney) was playing acoustic guitar, and we were singing. And we went all over doing just that. Then Leon (Russell) wanted to be in, J.J. Cale, Jerry McGee on guitar, and Bobby Keys, and then Jim Price, and then Jim Keltner, and then Jim Gordon. Then, of course, Carl Radle came through there. But we were the beginning of that whole thing. And it was a clear picture then when it was all going down. Then (Joe Cocker’s) Mad Dogs and Englishmen happened. (Meaning when several of Delaney &

Bonnie’s band left for Cocker’s new band.) I did one more album with Delaney & Bonnie and that’s when we got connected with Duane (Allman). I was connected with Duane long before the Layla album, and so it’s been a beautiful journey for me - to be a part of it.

“I know the role I played in everything. There wasn’t but one me. I couldn’t be replaced. You could get somebody else to play and sing, but it wouldn’t be Bobby Whitlock. I know the role that I’ve been playing in everyone’s music that I was a part of. Because my addition made that music mine as well - whether it’s a Jeff Healy record or whatever. I put my stamp on it.”

There is much more to this interview where Bobby talks about what prompted him to leave Austin, how unplanned the hit, "Layla," actually was, and what’s next for him and his wife, Coco Carmel, that you can watch on Boomerocity.com, YouTube, or listen to on any of the major podcast platforms.

Launched in 2009, Randy’s Boomerocity The Fan Experience has more than 500 positive, sincere, one-on-one interview conversations that show fans the true heart of the Baby Boomer generation of musicians, entertainers, and their associates, as well as today’s icons, influencers, and up-and-comers in music.

Duane Allman, Jim Gordon, Eric Clapton, Carl Radle, and Bobby Whitlock. Jim Gordon, Carl Radle, Bobby Whitlock, and Eric Clapton

Open Chord Music Shop Your Place for All Things Music™

YOU ARE probably already aware that the Open Chord is a great place to see live music, but did you know that the Open Chord Music Shop is also a great place to pick up new guitar strings, find the perfect guitar strap, or try out some of the coolest pedals? With effects from BOSS , EarthQuaker, MXR and Wampler, you’re sure to dial in the sound you’ve been looking for.

And as the largest Taylor Guitar dealer in the area, Open Chord Music Shop is a full-service music store offering a great selection of all things stringed - electric and acoustic guitars from Taylor, Gibson, Gold Tone, Epiphone, Suhr, in addition to electric basses, ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, and more!

Open Chord Music Shop is your one stop shop for All Things Music! The staff are also musicians so they can help answer your

Open Chord Music Shop 8426 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919 865.507.3857 OpenChordMusicShop.com June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 41

JUNE

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

Nief-Norf Summer Festival at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville through the 16th. Visit NiefNorf.org/summer-festival/2024 for info.

The Foreigner by Larry Shue at Theatre Knoxville Downtown (800 S Central) through the 16th. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 3 pm. For info visit TheatreKnoxville.com.

2024 Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Events through the 17th. The MLK Commemorative Commission is the largest consortium of MLK events in East Tennessee including symposiums, tributes, interfaith prayer services and more. For a listing of all community events, see MLKKnoxville.com.

Fantastic Mr. Fox by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre through the 23rd. Visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

Summer Art Academy, featuring classes and workshops for ages 3-17, at the Knoxville Museum of Art through July 26th.

JUNE 11

Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays featuring Ken Brown Quintet in Market Square at 7 pm. Free!

Beetlejuice The Musical at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 12th-16th.

JUNE 12

Kid A’ Riffic Fun in the Park, including Touch-A-Truck, at Chilhowee Park from 10 am to 1 pm. Enjoy making crafts, playing games, and more! For children ages 2-12, all activities are free!

Josh Gates Live! at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

JUNE 13

Matt Rife: ProbleMATTic World Tour at the Civic Auditorium at 7 and 10 pm. Concerts For Our Own benefit concert featuring Steve Augeri, former lead vocalist for Journey, at the Tennessee Amphitheater in World’s Fair Park at 7:30 pm. For tickets visit ConcertsForOurOwn.org. See page 30. Phenomenal Fireflies at Ijams Nature Center at 9 pm. Also on the 14th.

JUNE 14

Flag Day

Biodiversity with Biocubes! at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 2 to 3:30 pm. Registration required.

Barn Dance at the Museum of Appalachia’s signature fundraising event from 6 to 9 pm featuring wagon rides, bluegrass music, Southern dinner, square dancing and more!

Soundscapes at the KMA (formerly Alive After Five) at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 7:30 pm to 9:15 pm.

Kevin Smith at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

JUNE 15

20th Annual Dragon Boat Festival benefiting Knox Area Rescue Ministries at The Cove at Concord Park from 7 am to 6 pm.

Birding by Ear at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8 to 11 am. Pre-registration required.

Preschool Monthly Story Thyme at Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11 am.

Summer Shopping Bazaar at the Convention Center from 10 am to 5 pm. Incredible arts and crafts, enjoy live music, and treat yourself at the food stand and full bar. Butterflies, Bees, and Beetles at Ijams Nature Center at 3:30 pm. Old Gods of Appalachia at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Fireflies Viewing Night at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8:30 to 11 pm. Pre-registration required.

JUNE 16

Father’s Day

Bird Banding at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8 to 10:30 am. Pre-registration required.

East Tennessee Bluegrass Association Monthly Jam at Ijams Nature Center from 2 to 5 pm.

JUNE 17

U.S. Olympic Team Trials: Diving at the Allan Jones Aquatic Center (2200 Andy Holt Avenue) through the 23rd. This event will serve as the selection for the 2024 U.S. Olympic diving team. Visit USADiving.org for info and complete schedule.

JUNE 18

Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays featuring Vance Thompson Quintet in Market Square at 7 pm. Free! Tennessee Smokies vs. Mississippi Braves at Smokies Stadium at 7 pm. Also the 19th-22nd at 7 pm and 23rd at 2 pm.

For Knoxville’s andMarketFarmers’dates locations,seepage 12

JUNE 19

Annual MLK March/Parade and Juneteenth Celebration at Chilhowee Park. Parade begins at 10 am; Juneteenth Celebration at Dr. Walter Hardy Park at noon. Festivities include a range of activities, performances, and educational opportunities.

JUNE 20

Kid’s Birding Program: Bird Songs at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 9 to 11 am.

Local Voices: Author Talks with Rhea Carmon at the Historic Ramsey House.

Concerts on the Square: Variety Thursdays featuring Jeanine Fuller & The True Funk SOULdiers Tribute Band in Market Square at 7 pm. Free!

Justin Willman at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Phenomenal Fireflies at Ijams Nature Center at 9 pm. Also on the 14th.

JUNE 21

First Day of Summer

Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee 43rd Quilt Show at the Knoxville Expo Center from 9 am to 5 pm. Also the 22nd from 9 am to 4 pm. See page 21.

Lucinda Williams at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Friday Night Frog Walk at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8:15 to 10:15 pm. Registration required.

Full Moon Hike at Ijams Nature Center at 8:30 pm.

JUNE

22

Pedal for Alzheimer’s Knoxville Gran Fondo and Trail Run at Baker Creek Preserve (3700 Lancaster Drive) from 7:30 am to 3 pm. This cycling and running event will bring awareness to Alzheimer’s. Visit PedalforAlzheimers.org for info.

TN Promise Volunteer Day at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 9 am to noon.

Beginner Summer Tree ID Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 10 am.

Summer Pollinator Walk at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum at 10 am.

Movie in the Cave: Disney’s The Haunted Mansion at Cherokee Caverns at 11 am, 1:30 pm, 4 pm, 6:30 pm and 9 pm.

Knoxville Brewfest at World’s Fair Park from 1 to 4 pm and 6 to 9 pm. Benefiting CureDuchenne. Visit KnoxvilleBrewfest.com for info.

42 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE

Vintage Base Ball: Cumberland Club of Nashville vs. Knoxville Holstons at Historic Ramsey House at 1 pm. Free!

See page 12.

Movies Under the Stars Terror in the Woods: Fright Night and 30 Days of Night at Ijams Nature Center. Doors open at 6 pm, movie begins at dark. See page 15.

Fireflies Viewing Night at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8:30 to 11 pm. Pre-registration required.

JUNE 23

Forest Bathing Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 10 am.

Paint and Plant with an Opossum Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 2 pm.

Knoxville Community Band’s Summer Concert at Bearden Middle School at 3 pm.

Beginner Summer Tree ID Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 3:30 pm.

JUNE 25

Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays featuring Larry Vincent Quartet in Market Square at 7 pm. Free!

JUNE 26

Kid A’ Riffic Fun in the Park at Fort Kid in World’s Fair Park from 10 am to 1 pm. Enjoy making crafts, playing games, and more! For children ages 2-12, all activities are free!

JUNE 27

Birds of Prey Program at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 10 to 10:45 am.

Knoxville History Project 8th Annual Luncheon to honor Sandy McNabb, co-founder of Knox Heritage (to save the Bijou Theatre), at the Foundry at World’s Fair Park from 11 am to 1 pm.

Sierra Hull at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Moths & More at Ijams Nature Center at 9 pm.

JUNE 28

Beginner Birding Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8:30 to 10:30 am. Registration required.

Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at the Cedar Bluff Branch from 10 am to 5 pm. Also the 29th.

Pickin’ on Nature Bluegrass Concert featuring Clinch River Ramblers and True Blue at Ijams Nature Center from 6 to 7:30 pm.

Moths & More at Ijams Nature Center at 9 pm.

JUNE 29

Edible and Medicinal Plant Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 9 to 11 am. Pre-registration required.

Beginner Summer Tree ID Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 3:30 pm.

Knoxville Opera with Lawrence Brownlee, Tenor at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

David Spade: Joe Dirt Country Bus Tour at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

JULY 1

7th annual “Where’s Waldo” Scavenger Hunt throughout downtown Knoxville through the 31st.

Tennessee Smokies vs. Chattanooga Lookouts at Smokies Stadium at 7 pm. Also the 2nd & 3rd at 7 pm.

JULY 4

2024 Knoxville Indoor Pickleball Championship at the Convention Center through the 7th. Event is open to spectators.

Farragut Freedom Run beginning at 100 S Campbell Station Road at 9 am.

Town of Farragut’s annual Independence Day Parade at 9:30 am. Parade beings on Kingston Pike at Stadium Drive and continues to Boring Road. Festival on the 4th at World’s Fair Park at 5 pm; fireworks begin at 9:35 pm. See page 25.

Oak Ridge Community Band Independence Day Concert followed by fireworks at A.K. Bissell Park (1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike) beginning at 7:30 pm. Free admission, bring chairs or blankets for seating.

JULY 5

First Friday on Market Square, Gay Street, The Old City, and Downtown North beginning at 5 pm.

JULY 6

Concerts For Our Own benefit concert featuring Taylor Nation (a live band journey through the eras of Taylor Swift) at the Tennessee Amphitheater in World’s Fair Park at 7:30 pm. For tickets visit ConcertsForOurOwn.org. See page 30.

JULY 7

Cinderella by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre through the 28th. Visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

JULY 9

Brit Floyd: 2024 P•U•L•S•E World Tour at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

All event dates and times subject to change.

June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 43

Local Guys really left a positive impression on me from the moment I first talked to them, and that stayed throughout the entire process of them working on my car. I drive a BMW, and my insurance company was trying to have parts come from less costly third-party manufacturers … Local Guys was intent on using OEM parts from BMW and eventually the insurance company agreed. I can’t thank Ken and his team enough for how great their service was! A truly pleasant experience!

44 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

ISLAND HOME:

A NEIGHBORHOOD RICH IN KNOXVILLE HISTORY

THE ICONIC South Knoxville neighborhood of Island Home is named after the model farm and the country home of prominent Knoxville resident Perez Dickinson (1813-1901). Dickinson was a Massachusetts-born merchant, banker, farmer, educator, and cousin of poet Emily Dickinson. Perez Dickinson had moved to Knoxville in 1829, where his brother-in-law, Joseph Estabrook, was serving as the principal of the Knoxville Female Academy and later as the president of East Tennessee College (today, the University of Tennessee). After a brief stint as an educator, Dickinson co-founded the mercantile wholesale firm Cowan and Dickinson in 1831 and helped established another wholesale firm, Cowan, McClung and Company, in 1858.

In 1869, he purchased more than 600 acres on the south side of the Tennessee River and an island of about 200 acres. He then established a model stock farm and agricultural experimental station and called it “Island Home.” A grand Italianate home was built in the early 1870s for his wife who died before the home was completed. The home was surrounded by formal gardens and featured a long sweeping drive. Dickinson is said to have been gracious in sharing his home with the community. He entertained locals and visiting dignitaries and encouraged various civic groups, organizations, and churches to hold meetings and events on the property.

The citizens of Knoxville became even more interested in Island Home after the Gay Street Bridge was constructed in 1898. Before the bridge was completed, a streetcar company had been granted an easement to install tracks across the bridge. Prior to installation of the streetcar, South Knoxville had always been fairly isolated from downtown Knoxville.

After the death of Dickinson in 1901, ownership passed to his family members. In 1905, real estate developer Harry H. Galbraith purchased 300 acres of the farm for $40,000. In April 1911, Island Home Park Company purchased 120 acres from Galbraith directly west of the original farm gates for a new residential subdivision. The subdivision featured a streetcar line that ran in the median of Island Home Boulevard, large stone entry gateposts, city water, paved streets, concrete sidewalks, electric streetlights, and a public park along the river. The neighborhood lies on land that formed the

front approach to the Dickinson farm, and Island Home Boulevard follows the path established by the original drive to the home. Initial development growth was concentrated on Island Home Boulevard and Spence Place. The neighborhood residents were middle and upper class business, medical, real estate, and political professionals. Residents included a former Mayor of Knoxville and actor and comedian Archie Campbell. The craftsman style is the most popular design represented in the neighborhood. Typical architectural details include large porches, casement windows, low-pitch gable roofs, tapered columns, dormers, and decorative elements like brackets, lintels, and exposed rafters. Other architectural styles represented in the neighborhood include Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and American Foursquare. In 1924, the Tennessee School for the Deaf moved to its present campus located at the eastern boundary of the neighborhood when they sold their original 1848 building in downtown Knoxville to the City of Knoxville for a new City Hall. Perez Dickinson’s house, although extensively modified from its original design, still exists and serves as the residence of the school superintendent.

Island Home is rich in Knoxville history and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. The historic district consists of 91 contributing houses along Island Home Boulevard, Spence Place, Fisher Place, and Maplewood Drive. Homes have been well-maintained and continue to represent the pride of ownership that was part of Perez Dickinson’s original vision for his “Island Home.”

The Knox Heritage mission is to protect Knoxville’s unique character for future generations by preserving, restoring, and transforming historically significant structures and places. Established in 1974 as a nonprofit historic preservation organization, Knox Heritage is chartered by the state of Tennessee and governed by a board of directors.

Perez Dickinson Island Home House Island Home Entrance Stone Pillar
June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 45

HEAT-LOVING HELIOTROPE

Flourishes in Hot Summers

IN 2021, we trialed Heliotrope Augusta ® Lavender at the University of Tennessee Gardens, Jackson, for the first time.

Jason Reeves, horticulturist at UT Gardens, Jackson, and I highlighted this plant on our regular Facebook Live sessions for the gardens and bantered each week about how long the young plants would survive our heat and humidity.

My memories of Heliotrope, Heliotropium arborescens, from years ago with its dark green leaves, towering dark purple blossoms, and intoxicating vanilla grape scent, were a strange mix of admiration and disappointment. I routinely purchased this plant on impulse year after year, enjoyed them in mixed containers for a brief time, then came to terms with their demise when the high temps of summer descended. This was a plant of nostalgia but not of longevity for our growing conditions.

However, Heliotrope Augusta ® Lavender, Heliotropium hybrid , quickly expelled all our hesitancy and ridicule. As temperatures began to rise, this hybrid thrived in full sun and only improved as the season progressed.

Augusta® Lavender differs in so many ways from the old-fashioned Heliotropes. It has a tight upright mounding growth habit, reaching 12 to 18 inches tall and wide and bearing from May until frost, a nearly constant cover of clustered lavender flowers that extend beyond its foliage canopy. Augusta® Lavender prefers full sun with well-drained soil and is drought tolerant once established. It performs well in both containers and landscapes and remains a favorite of bees and butterflies.

As if we needed another reason to love this plant, it has proven to be reliably perennial in Jackson (zone 7) for three years, but it is typically grown and marketed as an annual. The only downfall of Heliotrope Augusta® Lavender may be its complete lack of fragrance, which some may consider a fair trade for all of its newly acquired attributes.

Heliotrope Augusta ® Lavender can be found at UT Gardens, Jackson, in the annual trial berm plantings. It has not yet been grown at the UT Gardens locations in Crossville or Knoxville. The UT Gardens includes plant collections located in Knoxville, Crossville, and Jackson, Tennessee. Designated as the official botanical garden for the state of Tennessee, the UT Gardens are part of the UT Institute of Agriculture. The Gardens’ mission is to foster appreciation, education, and stewardship of plants through garden displays, educational programs, and research trials. The Gardens are open during all seasons and free to the public.

UT GARDENS’ PLANT OF THE MONTH
Wikimedia Commons/Cephas
46 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
Photo by Celeste Scott, courtesy UTIA Heliotrope Augusta® Lavender at UT Gardens, Jackson, demonstrates how it thrives and improves through the heat of the summer.

TJune in the Garden

HIS HAS been another interesting spring. Wild temperature swings, torrential downpours, and nasty storms - topped off by cicadas hatching by the thousands. At least it hasn’t been boring! Some of you are still trying to plant because Mother Nature has been less than cooperative. Some of you are in the maintenance stage. Whichever stage you are in, there is plenty to do.

_ If you are still trying to plant, it’s OK. There are plenty of plants to be found. They may require a little more care if planted now because it is hard for plants to grow and establish roots at the same time. You will need to water more frequently once the spring rains stop. Other than that, go ahead and plant. Trust me, most of my plants don’t go in until June!

_ Do frequent walk-arounds. Plants were stressed by the temperature yo-yo and are therefore more vulnerable to disease and insects. If you catch problems when they are just beginning, you have a better chance of getting them under control.

_ We are seeing a lot of fungal issues this year. Treat with Copper or Neem to start. Some plants that are especially susceptible to disease may need a systemic product such as Infuse™. Most plants will get better once we enter a drier stage.

_ When you start treating for insects, please remember that some insects are your friends. Make sure they are doing damage before you spray. Overuse of insecticides not only kills the good bugs that we need, it also makes the harmful insects more resistant to insecticides.

_ You can prune winter damage from shrubs now if you haven’t already done so. You can also cut back spent bulbs, the stalks of spring bloomers (iris, peonies, etc.), and annuals that are getting leggy. If you want to reduce the size of your spring blooming trees and shrubs, prune soon after they stop blooming so they have not set bud for next year.

_ Keep an eye on your container plants. Most will need to be deadheaded, cut back, cleaned up (don’t let the spent blooms settle down into the container), and fertilized weekly. Container gardens tend to have problems with air circulation because they are densely planted, which can lead to fungus and insect problems. Be sure you are checking down inside the plant, not just the surface.

_ If you planted vegetables, watch for insects and diseases, and treat before they get out of hand. Splashing water is a quick way to spread disease, so always use soaker hoses or water at the base of the plant. Mulch will help, especially if applied over landscape fabric. Call us if you have problems.

Now let’s talk about perennials because June is perennial month! We have a new partnership with American Beauties Native Plants®, and many of you have already taken advantage of the program. Native plants are great because they grow here naturally and require less care. In addition, they provide pollen and nectar for our native pollinators.

There are some things that you need to keep in mind if you are not used to growing perennials. First of all, many perennials do not have a long bloom time; 4-6 weeks is average. This means that if you want consistent blooms, you will need to plant sequential bloomers. Start out your spring with creeping phlox, candy tuft, irises, peonies, brunnera, and baptisia. Add summer bloomers such as daisies, lilies, phlox, purple coneflower, yarrow, bee balm, rudbeckia, and salvia. If your yard is shady, hostas, coral bells, and ferns will give you blooms and wonderful foliage color combinations.

As we move into the fall, asters, mums, sedums, and some of the sages will continue the bloom show. Winter has hellebores to bloom in the gloom.

Here is some other information about perennials:

ҋ It takes them a little while to get going.

The third year is when most really start performing.

ҋ If you have worked good compost or soil conditioner into your soil, most do not need fertilizing.

ҋ After 3-5 years, you can divide and share. Research timing or give us a call, because some prefer spring division and some prefer fall.

ҋ Most can be moved if they (or you) are unhappy with their location. Butterfly weed has a taproot and cannot be moved.

ҋ Perennial does not mean forever. Some, such as peonies, can live for decades. Others tend to start fading after a few years.

ҋ There are a few perennials that are toxic. If you have pets that like to nibble on your plants, please do some research! We will continue to get trucks in throughout the summer, so stop by and check out what is new. Let us help you have a beautiful garden.

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June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 47

New Exhibitions Opening

THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from June 7-28. Most of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at KnoxAlliance.store.

Alex Smith: Moved by Stillness and Jan Muir: Stop and Smell the Flowers! in the Upper Gallery

A native Knoxvillian, Alex Smith has been the featured artist at the Dogwood Arts Festival and ArtXtravaganza. His work has been exhibited at the Emporium in Knoxville and numerous galleries in New York.

Smith’s artist statement excerpts: I’ve lived in the hustle and bustle of New York and in the East Tennessee countryside. Whatever my surroundings, I’ve been very aware of being in the present moment when I’m working. My works are from scenes in my life where I’ve found inspiration; each painting has its own story that a viewer can only find by being still.

Jan Muir worked in pottery for many years until a love of photographing wildlife and traveling absorbed her. In 2020 and 2022, her photography was featured on the covers of National Geographic Kids and Little Kids Magazines. In 2002, she began to work with blown glass and has since studied and taught glass art fusing, casting, and blowing. Muir’s artist statement excerpts: The main influence in my life and art has always be the natural beauty of the outdoors. As a wildlife photographer, I focus on the eyes of the wild while having my spirit melt into the immensity of open landscapes. My glass art is similar. I embrace beauty, place, and function. The current series reflects nature through the use of flowers. Some pieces arose from photographic images that I’ve taken, while others I designed to elicit joy.

Fountain City Art Guild: Spring Show in the Lower Gallery

The Fountain City Art Guild will feature original art by nearly 30 local artists including oils, watercolors, woodworking, and more. The Guild began in 1979 when most of the members were watercolor artists. In 2000, the Guild voted to allow other 2-D media, and in 2015, to allow nonfunctional 3-D work as well. The Guild was instrumental in helping open the Fountain City Art Center in the location of the old Fountain City Library.

As a group of around 50 local artists who work in a variety of

Emporium Center June 7

media, guild membership is a juried process. In addition to monthly meetings, the Guild also hosts exhibitions at local venues. The purpose is to encourage public interest in and enjoyment of art. They encourage higher artistic standards in quality and workmanship, the exchange of ideas and new techniques, and strive to provide an atmosphere that encourages and inspires creativity.

Michelle Carr: Transparent But Unseen in the Atrium

Michelle Carr has 35 years of experience in ballet as a professional dancer, instructor, and choreographer. She has taught, danced, and choreographed with Go! Contemporary Dance Works for the past 15 years. Carr embarked on her photography journey with the University of Tennessee’s non-credit program in 2019. Recognizing the potential in merging her passions for dance and photography, she began experimenting with light and movement, leading to the creation of “What’s The Pointe: Ballet in the Pandemic.” Carr continues to pursue meaningful projects such as “Four Seasons: The Vivaldi Project,” symbolizing life’s seasons, and “Discarded,” offering an introspective look into society’s perception of women, especially in the realm of dance.

Photography by Tod Sheley on the North Wall

Artist statement: Being a partially blind/color blind photographer, I want to bring awareness to disabilities and arts. While I enjoy all styles of photography, street, reflection, concert, and nature photography are my favorites. I want to demonstrate that just because a person has limitations, those limitations do not define who they are. To me, photography is healing.

Tod Sheley is a Knoxville-based photographer most known for his reflections and architecture. Inspired by years of traveling with his band and watching the streets of Knoxville grow along with him, he brings an uplifting and inspiring perspective to the stories of people and places.

Glass Works by Jo Marie Brotherton in the Display Case

Jo Marie Brotherton built a studio behind her house and has opened it up to share with other artists and teach.

Artist statement: I see the creative process as a form of tangible meditation. Holding a piece of work in your hand is holding someone’s time on this earth, their focus. My work represents years of study, a dance if you will, manipulation of a medium you can’t touch with your bare hands until it is completely finished and cool. And that is what draws me in. My work is sculptural, exploring translation of our world.

The exhibitions will be on display at the Emporium Center, located at 100 S. Gay Street in Knoxville. The Emporium is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Please note, the Emporium will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, for the holiday. For more information, call 865-523-7543 or visit KnoxAlliance.com.

Robin Moore Rohwer Jan Muir
48 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024
Alex Smith

Flowers After Hours at Random Acts of Flowers

RANDOM ACTS of Flowers’

public Flowers After Hours events are a fun and educational way to celebrate a special event, enjoy a night out with friends, or meet new people while spending some meaningful time together helping others.

Flowers After Hours participants enjoy hands-on floral instruction from a professional florist before having the opportunity to create one floral arrangement to take home and create additional arrangements that will be

delivered to individuals in local healthcare facilities. Flowers After Hours is a great way for people to get together at the Random Acts of Flowers’ workshop to share an evening of fun, fellowship, and flower arranging - all while providing bouquets to those in need of encouragement and a personal moment of kindness.

Random Acts of Flowers Knoxville hosts Flowers After Hours classes bi-monthly, and the dates are posted on our website and Facebook page. The ticket price includes vases, flowers, and instruction. Music, refreshments, and snacks will be available,

and feel free to bring your own, too! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit RAFKnoxville.org.

Interested in booking a private Flowers After Hours event for a birthday party, wedding shower, company teambuilding, or other occasion? If so, please contact us by phone at 865-633-9082. We are happy to work with your timeline to schedule an evening that best suits you and your group!

Your participation in Flowers After Hours helps us deliver smiles - to you and to our recipients!

For more information on making a donation, having a Random Acts of Flowers event, or volunteering, call us at 865-6339082, email us at info@RAFKnoxville.org, or visit our website at RAFKnoxville.org.

June 2024 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE 49

Who is Your One?

MAY WAS Mental Health

Awareness Month. This means something different to each of us. For some, it’s more acute and sometimes tragic. For many, it’s just another month. However, we should all be cognizant of our own mental health and that of those we care about. How many of us have days where we just feel off, something doesn’t turn out as planned and thus affects us negatively, or we simply find ourselves in the everyday grind? Unfortunately, these feelings are often brushed off as “life.” Thankfully, mental health is elastic for many of us. We experience a setback, suffer mentally, and rebound relatively quickly. Put this in terms of a rubber band. Our everyday is like the rubber band at rest. We occasionally get stretched mentally by a negative feeling or experience, like the rubber band being stretched around a stack of paper. But remove that tension, and our mental health returns to its original condition just like the rubber band. This can happen over and over again. Eventually though, the rubber band doesn’t return to its original size. It becomes less elastic and brittle over time. Sometimes the result is dramatic. If it becomes terribly twisted without being

IN OTHER w�rd�

immediately untwisted, it may never be quite the same. Other times, the result is considerably more dramatic. The rubber band breaks when you stretch it, smacks you in the hand, and no amount of effort can make it whole. We will all experience stretching to an extent. Some will leave this world fully intact, some broken, and most of us in between to varying degrees. This is why we each need our One The One can be a spouse, parent, therapist, trusted friend, confidante, pastor, etc. It could even be an organization such as Compassion Counseling in Blount County. Whoever it may be, it’s who can help center our mind, keep the stretching manageable, and thus allow us to retain our shape for

much longer. It’s the One we reach for when we are getting twiste d or about to break. Your One will always be there for you. September 10, 2021, was the hardest day of my and my wife’s life. It’s the day she called on me to fulfill my responsibilities as her One in the most urgent of circumstances. You see, she had been struggling with mental health for some time, and that day in September was the day her rubber band almost broke. She told me she was having severe catastrophic thoughts and had a plan to act upon them. We immediately got her the help she needed and have spent the last almost three years working to understand how and why she got there. Each day since has been a blessing - even the hard days. We now have an opportunity to celebrate her “other” birthday every year. The alternative is just too painful to imagine and what too many people experience daily.

Finding your One is just the first step. Often the most difficult step is realizing the trust that can be placed in this person and stripping our pridefulness to allow it. I spent most of my life thinking I could handle everything on my own - and often could. However, I didn’t realize just how much I was being stretched until I humbled myself enough to know I could be better as a person, a husband, and a father if I just allowed my barriers to crumble and receive the help I previously didn’t know I needed. I thank God I have not only one, but three people in my life who fill this role. One is my wife. The others, my father and mother. I spent years struggling in ways I shouldn’t have because I was too full of pride. While I still do not utilize them as much as I could, there is extreme comfort in knowing I can trust them to help me when needed. I am now a better person and more mentally healthy because of this personal epiphany.

Needing help is not a weakness. It also does not disqualify you from being someone else’s One. While not always easy, it is worthwhile and rewarding in so many ways so be open to taking on the role. Look, watch, and listen proactively for the opportunity. Be the One who makes the difference!

Lastly, please seek help from your One when you need it. Dial 988 if you need to. Be vulnerable and honest with that person. It will be ok. Your life, or a life precious to you, may be in the balance. And always remember you matter more than you know! A native of Maryville, Andy Barton is the Director of Residential Operations at CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee.

50 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE June 2024

WONDERS OF NATURE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOCAL ARTIST MEGAN HURST

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