The Oak Room by Abridged: Happy Holler's hidden gem.
24 Designer Garages
Give your garage a new life and add organization, function, and value to your home.
32 Dr. Jim Bailey
Discerning the changing seasons of your life.
37 Undercover Systems
Create four full seasons of family fun.
EMBRACE PROACTIVE HEALTH with Happy Health & Wellness Knoxville! Conveniently located off Cedar Bluff near the I-40 interchange, their patient-centered approach combines the very best of traditional and integrative medicine. Improve your healthcare and overall health with preventive medicine, comprehensive diagnostics, and personalized care.
From the Publisher
MY FATHER passed away over the summer. His grandkids called him “Pop” and eventually, so did everyone else.
I don’t think you could say it was unexpected, as he was in his 80s, but the end came more quickly than we could ever have anticipated - a massive stroke on a Friday and gone by Sunday morning. He succumbed quickly without any knowledge of what had happenedjust like he would have wanted to. His biggest fear was lingering on without his faculties until he wasted away.
My dad’s service at their local church in Morganton, NC, was a “packed house” with a long life of friends and family attending, even with the short notice. The kind words expressed by others was lovely and moving but, honestly, not surprising. As often happens, the stern father we had growing up had given way to a more relaxed and caring, yet very productive, version of himself. From stints with Habitat for Humanity to starting a Companion Program at their retirement
community so that no one had to go to the ER alone, my dad was a good problem solver. Many remembered his listening skills - especially his grandchildren - maybe not always listening to their opinions with an open mind but definitely with an open heart.
The receiving line of attendees lasted more than an hour, with many from his Bible Study and Prayer Group saying how much they would miss him and his leadership skills. Relatives talked about the “hole” this would leave in our family. He is the first to go of our decades-long “family beach trip” group that had spread to include spouses, children, and step-children over the years. Many of these reunion vacations were displayed in photos my brother and I collected to display at the following reception. He will be missed, and we are now left to recall the lessons he taught us and to savor the memories of the times we had with our “Pop.”
Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor
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Everything Knoxville is distributed from Downtown Knoxville to hundreds of neighborhoods in Bearden, West Knoxville, Farragut, Hardin Valley and beyond.
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Everything You’ve Been Looking for in a Healthcare Provider!
New Integrative Medicine & IV Clinic Accepts Insurance
ARE YOU LOOKING for a medical clinic that goes beyond traditional care, offering comprehensive diagnostics and personalized care? Look no further than Happy Health & Wellness Knoxville. Everything Knoxville spoke with the owners to learn how their integrative approach can improve your health.
EK: What sets Happy Health & Wellness apart from other clinics?
HHWK: We specialize in Executive Physicals that include detailed lab work, ultrasounds, EKGs, and brain scans to uncover the root causes of your health concerns. From there, we create personalized treatments that may include IV therapy, injections, hormone replacement, or other treatments.
Our integrative approach combines conventional and alternative therapies to address each patient’s unique needs and promote long-term wellness.
EK: Do you take insurance?
HHWK: Yes, we accept most insurance plans, including Medicare, and handle all billing for you. Unlike many integrative, alternative medicine clinics or IV clinics, which often don’t accept insurance, we strive to make our services accessible to everyone by ensuring coverage through your existing health plans.
EK: What services do you provide for people who are already in good health?
HHWK: Happy Health & Wellness Knoxville specializes in preventative medicine. Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or someone aiming to maintain peak health, we offer hydration therapies, vitamin and mineral deficiency tests, concussion treatments, and more. Even when you feel healthy, our comprehensive testing can identify underlying imbalances that may affect your performance, energy levels, or longevity, giving you a tailored plan to
keep your body performing at its best.
EK: What exactly is an Executive Physical, and what does it include?
HHWK: Our Executive Physicals are comprehensive examinations beginning with an in-depth intake form and a review of your medical history and health goals. The doctor then selects other appropriate tests, which may include:
• Comprehensive lab work
• Ultrasound to check for hernias, aneurysms, or thyroid issues
• EKG and spirometry to evaluate heart and lung health
• Brain activity testing
• A detailed examination of veins and arteries
Happy Health & Wellness Knoxville specializes in:
• Comprehensive Physicals
• IV Therapy
• Weight Loss
• Hormone Therapy
• Seasonal and Food Allergies
• Anti-aging and Wellness
• Immune System Support
In recent years, a transformative shift has been taking place in the world of healthcare. Traditional medicine is giving way to a more holistic and patient-centered approach known as integrative medicine. As we navigate the complexities of modern living, people are increasingly turning to integrative medicine to address not just symptoms but the root causes of their health issues. This approach is gaining significant traction, and leading the charge is Happy Health & Wellness, where we proudly offer cutting-edge integrative medical services.
This holistic evaluation goes beyond the standard physical, focusing on the early detection of potential health concerns to help you stay ahead of any issues.
EK: What can patients expect after their examination, and how often do they need treatments?
HHWK: After your exam, the doctor will design personalized treatments for you, often including customized IV or injection protocols. Many patients visit us weekly until results are seen.
Follow-ups and re-examinations are scheduled to track progress and are then adjusted as needed. The frequency of treatment varies depending on your condition, but our goal is always to optimize your health as efficiently as possible.
EK: Tell us more about brain activity testing.
HHWK: We use a state-of-the-art brain scan that can detect concussions and different stages of cognitive decline. This is very helpful for athletes, the elderly, or anyone who suspects there might be a problem with their brain function or memory loss. It is a great tool to get an initial baseline evaluation, then we check again at regular intervals to measure improvement.
EK: What are some of the most common health complaints in our area?
sport or activity level, we can help you recover and get back to doing what you love.
EK: Tell us what you can do to help with cold and flu season approaching.
HHWK: Our successful weight loss program brings many patients into our clinic. We also address seasonal allergies, a significant issue in East Tennessee. Using detailed allergy testing, we can identify specific triggers and create effective treatment protocols. In addition, we frequently treat injuries from high school and college athletes, CrossFit enthusiasts, martial artists, and weekend warriors. No matter your
HHWK: We have incredible immune boosting IV and ozone therapy protocols that have been very successful in keeping people healthy. It’s good to maintain a strong immune system all year long, but this is especially true as the seasons begin to change.
EK: Do you also treat health conditions specific to men and women?
HHWK: Yes, our providers have years of experience using advanced lab testing to evaluate hormone levels and prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when appropriate. We offer customized treatment plans to address issues such as fatigue, mood swings, and low libido, helping you return to your active lifestyle and feel your best.
EK: How do patients get started?
HHWK: To get started on your personalized journey to better health, call us at 865-895-4985 to schedule your initial visit. We’re conveniently located off Cedar Bluff at 9125 Cross Park Drive, Suite 150 in Knoxville.
We look forward to helping you feel your best!
Happy Health & Wellness
9125 Cross Park Drive, Suite 150 Knoxville, TN 37923
865.895.4985
HappyHealthWellness.com
Megan Lingerfelt
“My passion for murals is twofold - I love the process and immersing myself in walls of color, but then I also get swept up in gratitude for all of the positive reactions from the community. Knoxville really shows up for public art.”
MURALIST
MEGAN LINGERFELT has a piece in the new Knox Walls project on North Broadway (along with murals in many other area locations) and just closed an exhibit of her studio work at Dogwood Arts Gallery. She has always been drawn to the volume and repetition of botanical elements alongside intersecting engineered forms. Megan’s work often reflects her surroundings through a stylistic layering of color on surfaces of all kinds, with her compositions emphasizing color and contrast.
After growing up and attending college in Western North Carolina, Megan moved her studio to Seattle, where she discovered a love for murals - and thankfully brought that love back to East Tennessee, where she continues to exhibit and work in public art. When Megan creates for public spaces, she works to imbue the character of each specific site into the overall design so that it may serve as a monument to its location.
Mural painting comes with a few more factors to consider than working on paper or a canvas; it can be daunting to know where to start. Working on such a large scale requires a solid plan requiring a scaled digital design in order to paint as close to the concept as possible. Megan has learned that every project has new hurdles to clear and new lessons to be learned, with weather and timing
being the most challenging aspects of her outdoor mural work. Last spring, Megan teamed up with Dogwood Arts to teach a workshop designed to introduce mural painting practices to artists interested in working on a large scale. She was able to give participants some hands-on experience and confidence to pursue mural opportunities on their own.
What’s next for Megan Lingerfelt? In addition to Knox Walls, she is working on a mural in Sweetwater and just finished her first mural festival in Macon, GA. Megan is also creating some designs that will be licensed to a local confectioner for their packaging - pulling from similar imagery as her murals. And murals are definitely her primary focus, so the rest of the year will bring some new pieces to Knoxville, a large one on a great wall downtown, as well as an XL piece in Athens, TN.
See more of Megan’s work at MeganLingerfelt.com (including a map of her mural locations) and @meganlingerfelt on Instagram.
“Having the opportunity to work alongside local artists and nationally known artists on the Knox Walls project was a dream come true; I’ve been wildly impressed with the Knoxville arts community in the 6 years I’ve been here, and this project was icing on a very large and lovely cake.”
How ShelfGenie® Can Help with Aging in Place
BY 2050, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the population of people aged 65+ will nearly double to approximately 84 million. As the population ages, there is growing demand for aging-inplace solutions that let people stay in their homes. At ShelfGenie ®, we manufacture custom, Glide-Out™ shelf solutions to improve access and functionality in the kitchen, pantry, and bathroom.
Kitchen Solutions
Since every home’s main activities center around the kitchen, it’s important to consider safety and convenience when redesigning or updating this space. Glide-Out™ shelving improves organization and makes it easier to access items such as dishes, pots and pans, cleaning supplies, and small appliances such as blenders, slow cookers, and toasters. They pull out the full depth of the cabinet, which improves lighting and makes it easier to see everything at a glance. They also make it easier to retrieve and replace items without bending and reaching, which avoids strain on the back and knees.
Pantry Solutions
The pantry can easily become a catch-all for food items, small appliances, dry goods, and paper products. Whether the pantry is in a kitchen cabinet or has its own designated space, organization, access, and storage space are key to maintain usability. With custom glide-outs, items can be categorized or zoned so they won’t be hidden or lost anymore. Viewing and retrieving items quickly will assist seniors with food preparation and grocery shopping. Because
Glide-Out™ shelves pull out, there isn’t a need for space to lift items in the back so more shelves can fit in a given vertical space.
Bathroom Solutions
There should be a place for every item in the bathroom, from toiletries and medication to bath towels and cleaning products. Glide-Out™ shelving in the linen closet or cabinets maximizes storage space and functionality. To utilize the space under the sink, glide-outs can be customized to fit around pipes. Seniors will be able to access whatever they need without bending over and reaching into the back of the cabinets.
ShelfGenie ® Glide-Out™ shelving can take a space that’s difficult to use and maximize its potential. Whether someone has arthritis, has trouble seeing, or uses a walking aid or wheelchair, our shelving solutions can make a huge difference in quality of life.
ShelfGenie® 865.409.1197
ShelfGenie.com
HOME SWEET ORGANIZED HOME!
Holiday ESSENTIALS
RELAXED
& REFINED Menswear in nearby historic downtown Sweetwater has restocked their store for the fall/winter season with trending styles and must-have essentials. Owners and sisters Candace McGuffey and Lucretia Allen invite you to “Step into the world of effortlessly stylish menswear, where our collections of trendy and classic apparel exude sophistication and effortless charm.”
The color and pattern choices this fall are trending toward the browns, forest greens, burnt orange, plaids (always!) - and don’t forget cozy flannels in various hues and prints. Pair any of these with your favorite chinos for an outfit suitable for a day at the office or a night out on the town.
Every guy needs a basic blazer in his closet and the understanding of how to dress it up or down. A blazer is arguably one of the most adaptable clothing items for any event or occasion. Whether you are attending a dinner party or a work presentation, a blazer is always appropriate and a definite wardrobe staple for men. Looking for something more casual? The quarter zip (or button) is a perfect layer piece for throwing on over a t-shirt and pairing with jeans, for cooler temps on the golf course, or for wearing over a dress shirt. They come in multiple fabrics from performance blends to fleece and always look great.
And don’t forget hoodies for when the weather gets chillier. They aren’t going out of style anytime soon, are very versatile and a definite must-have for men. But beware - if you have a girlfriend or wife, be sure to keep a few extra hoodies around because chances are she will decide to wear one of yours!
At Relaxed & Refined Menswear, discover a selection of men’s clothing, accessories, and gifts that seamlessly complement your personal style - whether you’re seeking timeless staples or bold fashion statements. With services that include special orders and tuxedo rentals, Candace and Lucretia are there to guide you toward the perfect pieces to reflect your unique personality while offering complimentary alterations on any clothing purchased in the store. Build your autumn and winter wardrobe with their newly arrived fashions just for you!
Visit our Facebook page at RelaxedandRefinedMenswear.
Relaxed & Refined Menswear
Where Style Meets Substance
OF TTS, LLC
Hauling garbage is what we do best!
Locally owned and operated | Live team members answer our phones!
FILM FEST KNOX
November 14-17
Downtown Regal Riviera
IN ADDITION to the American Regional Cinema Competition films , the 2024 FILM FEST KNOX programming includes an exciting array of acclaimed festival highlights and revivals, the Elev8or Pitch, Made in Tennessee films, panels, networking opportunities, and more.
“Building on last year’s success, the 2024 FILM FEST KNOX continues to prioritize excellent programming, as well as welcoming incredible talent from the independent filmmaking world who will be on the ground this year,” said Curt Willis, Sr. Director of the Visit Knoxville Film Office. “Audiences will be able to connect with these invited guests via panels, Q&As after films, and through networking opportunities spread throughout the festival.”
The Elev8or Pitch Competition kicks off the festival with top teams having their films screened, followed by a one-minute pitch in front of a live audience and panel of judges. The other Elev8or Pitch films will be screened on Saturday.
The Made in Tennessee program spotlights
The American Regional Film Competition Lineup: Bitterroot
Bob Trevino Likes It Griffin in Summer
The World Drops Dead To Kill a Wolf
the best new films shot throughout the state, including several that were made in and around Knoxville. The films competing in Made in Tennessee were selected from nearly 150 submissions.
FILM FEST KNOX has shaped the International Currents and Revival programs as well. This year, a retrospective of classic American regional films will be presented along with the year’s top festival highlight films.
The opening night film on Friday, is All That We Love , a heartfelt and poignant depiction of starting anew. The film stars
Margaret Cho as Emma Gwon, who is navigating a midlife awakening while creating chaos for everyone in her path. Co-starring Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Modern Family), All That We Love is a tears-and-laughter crowdpleaser. Director Yen Tan and Producer Kelly Williams will be in attendance.
FILM FEST KNOX offers educational opportunities for filmmakers and enthusiasts. The panel “New Directions in Regional Filmmaking” will be moderated by Scott Macaulay, Producer and Filmmaker Magazine’s Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief. The workshop “Stretch That Buck: Film Budgeting 101” will be presented by Sav Rodgers, Marketing Director of Seed & Spark.
FILM FEST KNOX will wrap on Sunday with an awards ceremony recognizing the Best Film of the American Regional Cinema Competition. The winner receives an Oscar-qualifying theatrical run courtesy of Regal. Best Film will be awarded in each category, as well as various other prizes. FILM FEST KNOX is proud to award a total of $18,000 in cash prizes.
“We’re incredibly excited about the industry’s response to what we’re building here in Knoxville,” said Artistic Director Darren Hughes. “In year two, FILM FEST KNOX is already becoming a premier showcase of regional cinema. We were overwhelmed by the quantity and quality of films submissions this year and by the enthusiasm of our invited guests. It’s going to be a really fun weekend.”
For more information, visit FilmFestKnox.com.
The Oak Room by Abridged Happy Holler’s Hidden Gem
BY KELLY JO GROSSER LARSEN
NORTH KNOXVILLE is known for hidden gems, but my absolute favorite one that everyone needs to know about is The Oak Room by Abridged. Located at 109 W. Anderson Avenue, this is a one-of-akind cocktail bar with a small but mighty food selection. They offer weekly food and drink specials so you can try something new each time you visit - because, trust me, you’ll be visiting more than once.
Upon entering, you’ll notice the barrels all around the restaurant and might be wondering what they’re used for. At The Oak Room, the cocktail experience is a standout feature. The menu offers house-made syrups and bitters that are barrel-aged onsite along with oak aged beers. The Oak Room’s mixologists take pride in their artisanal approach, and each drink is meticulously crafted to enhance the flavor profiles and
add a distinctive touch that sets The Oak Room apart. This dedication to quality and creativity ensures that every cocktail is not just a drink but a thoughtfully composed experience, reflecting The Oak Room’s
commitment to excellence and innovation in every sip.
As far as food goes, you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. I’ve tried it all; however, the charcuterie board is something to write home about. It features many house-made ingredients and is a crowd favorite. I also really enjoy the garden pimento dip! For my entree, I always
order the house flatbread. It comes with a delicious salad on the side and is the perfect amount of food for me. My husband orders the pan-fried chicken sandwich, and I always have to take a bite because it’s so delicious with the house spicy aioli. They have rotating desserts and I get to try something new every time we go!
The Oak Room by Abridged is open Wednesday through Saturday, so be sure to stop in. With its limited seating, patrons enjoy a more personalized and attentive dining experience, making The Oak Room a hidden gem in the lively Happy Holler neighborhood. Tell them Kelly’s Belly sent you!
You Say Tupper, We Say Where?
FINDING A GOOD way to store food containers for leftovers continues to be a kitchen dilemma! Many of our recent customer projects involved coming up with a solution to efficiently store collections of Tupperware ® and similar container items. This is frequently a trouble spot with the many sizes, shapes, and lids to “wrangle.”
As you have likely experienced, storing Tupperware in a lower cabinet makes them difficult to see, reach, retrieve, and put back without having to move stacks or take everything else out to get one item - and then repeat the process when putting it all back. Sound familiar?
In a recent Shelf Help installation, the cabinet had a center stile (vertical divider between the doors, see photo) that we removed and attached to one of the doors, allowing us to install drawers the full width of the cabinet. This provided much greater
storage space with the ability to slide the drawer open, load it up, and still easily see the stored items.
The second project was a newly built home where we installed Shelf Help’s custom, smart roll-out drawers throughout the kitchen and bath. The cabinet shown in the photo has three drawers; two that will fit common items up to about 8" in height and an additional drawer at the top for flat items
and lids. This is a great way to maximize the storage space in a cabinet and keep things organized and easily in reach.
Whether your home is old or new, the Shelf Help team can make the most of your available storage space. As a small business that began and is based here in Knoxville, Shelf Help has been solving storage, organization, and access problems for our clients since 2016. We offer a complimentary visit, recommendations, affordable pricing, and professional installation.
If it’s time to resolve your frustrating storage issues, find practical solutions to storing items that you can no longer reach, or learn what products are available to improve your kitchen and bath function and storage, Shelf Help is here to help!
Shelf Help
865.675.5098
ShelfHelpTN.com
Dogwood Arts Sets Out to Keep Knoxville Blooming
- One Tree at a Time
IT’S PLANTING TIME in Tennessee! Dogwood Arts is on a mission to Keep Knoxville Blooming - and make it easy for you to make a difference - by selling dogwood trees through their annual Bazillion Blooms program. Beautify your own landscape, honor someone special, or donate a tree to the Dogwood Trails and Keep Knoxville Blooming for years to come!
“We started Bazillion Blooms in 2009 with a mission to revitalize tree plantings along the historic Dogwood Trails,” said Vicki Baumgartner, Dogwood Arts Trails & Gardens Manager. “Since then, more than 15,000 dogwood trees have been added to East Tennessee’s landscape, ensuring our region’s spring beauty will continue well into the future.”
Bare-root trees (2-4 feet tall) are on sale now for $25 each or $20 each when five or more are purchased. The trees come from a grower in Middle Tennessee and are disease-resistant, spring-blooming, and available in either white or pink flowering varieties. Orders can be placed year-round, but trees are distributed in the fall to coincide with optimal planting time for successful growing. Planting in the fall gives trees time to develop strong root systems during the winter months before facing the challenges of drying summer heat.
Not
only does planting trees beautify the landscape, but it’s also a great way to celebrate a special event, honor an individual, or memorialize loved ones.
Gift & Memorial Trees
Not only does planting trees beautify the landscape, but it’s also a great way to celebrate a special event, honor an individual, or memorialize loved ones. Gift trees can be purchased year-round through Dogwood Arts and include a handwritten commemorative card mailed to the recipient of the purchaser’s choosing. The trees are planted along one of Knoxville’s historic Dogwood Trails, which have been a symbol of civic pride and community celebration since 1955.
Trees ordered through November 25th will be available for pickup at the Dogwood Arts office (123 W Jackson Avenue) on Friday, December 13th, from 10 am to 5 pm and Saturday, December 14th, from 9 am to 12 pm. For more information or to purchase, gift, or donate trees, visit DogwoodArts.com/ bazillionblooms.
Dogwood Arts, presented by ORNL Federal Credit Union, is a 501(c) (3) organization with a mission to promote and celebrate our region’s art, culture, and natural beauty.
INSPIRING YOUNG LIVES THROUGH MUSIC
BY KAREN COPPOCK
MUSIC IS one of the great joys of life. Playing an instrument and singing are not just creative endeavors; they have many other benefits, especially for children. However, what if a child from a low-income household wants to go beyond public school music offerings to learn a musical instrument, but the cost makes that dream out of reach? The Joy of Music School can help! This Knoxville nonprofit’s main mission is to provide high-quality music education for financially disadvantaged, at-risk youth. The school’s vision is to help give these children a broader life through music.
“Music can change the world because it can change people.”
- Bono
Through the financial generosity of donors and the dedication of the school’s volunteers, the school provides free music lessons to low-income children and teens. The Joy of Music School Executive Director, Francis Graffeo, said more than 100 students currently take free weekly lessons and/or classes at the school’s location on Euclid Avenue near downtown Knoxville.
Part of the school’s mission is carried out through outreach programs. Graffeo explained that the school works with “afterschool and extended day programs [to] reach many kids… through Girls and Boys Clubs, Urban Family Outreach, and Centro Hispano,” among other partner programs. These outreach classes are taught by contracted professional music teachers. Although the number of children reached fluctuates depending on enrollment in these partner programs, Graffeo notes that it has been as high as 1,000 children per year.
For the individual or group classes, the Joy of Music School relies on 65 volunteer teachers. Graffeo said they are so grateful for their volunteers but added that the school’s “100% biggest need is more volunteers… we are always in search of more. That is the main limiter or governor on our capacity. The best way to volunteer is through the website - we respond quickly!”
Safety is essential, so background checks are required for all volunteers. Teachers do not have to start from the ground up - the school’s staff supports the volunteer teachers with method
How did the school start?
Founder James A. Dick (1919-2011), a Knoxville business leader and philanthropist, visited the W.O. Smith School in Nashville in 1997. Inspired by that school’s model of offering low-cost music lessons, he worked with other Knoxville business and community leaders and music teachers to found the Joy of Music School. The school’s first classes began in 1998, and in 2000, it became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In 2003, the school moved to a 14,000 square foot building at 1209 Euclid Avenue. For more information on how to volunteer or help the Joy of Music School, please call 865-525-6806 or check out their website at JoyofMusicSchool.org.
books/curriculum, lesson plans, training, and encouragement.
Besides the simple pleasures of hearing and making music, kids who learn music can:
• Build math and reading skills
• Increase physical coordination
• Enhance spatial reasoning
Music education can also help youth develop important abilities that potentially carry forward throughout their life and work like:
• Concentration
• Patience
• Reliability
• Teamwork
Francis Graffeo, the Joy of Music School Executive Director, also noted that music provides “a spotlight on your own history and ethnicity, but also that of other people, time periods, and continents… wrapped together, music and culture.”
Graffeo said younger students (ages 6-7) start in a Music Makers chorus class. “Music Makers helps prepare them for private lessons,” he explained. “Students already have some momentum so they’re set up for success.” Voice lessons are also offered, and teens can take a music production and engineering class.
Group classes generally have 6 to 15 students per class. The Joy of Music School provides as many classes or lessons as they have available volunteers, and these cover a variety of instruments. However, Graffeo noted that “Typically, kids stay in guitar, piano, violin, drums,” which are the top four instruments taught.
Student applications can be made online at JoyofMusicSchool.org for youth aged 6 to 18. Per their website, students are admitted based on the same household income guidelines used for free/reduced lunch program, so proof of income is required. The applicant is then placed on a waitlist until a class opening is available, which is solely based on volunteer teacher availability. “There’s a child waiting at home for a call from us!” Graffeo said. “It’s a unique way to give back.”
HOW TO HELP
• Volunteer to teach
• The school has many other volunteer needs - outreach, special events, committees, and building/grounds keeping
• Attend special fundraising events - the school holds an annual golf tournament in the fall, a holiday event in December, and a spring dinner and concert
• Donate funds
• Support the arts with a specialty license plate
Designing with Vol Spirit!
At Shae Design Studio, we’re not just expanding our showroom; we’re expanding possibilities. With a big ger team and a renewed commitment to excellence, we’re ready to bring your design dreams to life. Our awar dwinning team, boasting over 35 years of combined experience, has been voted Knoxville’s #1 Interior Designer by CityView magazine and the Knoxville News Sentinel . Whether you’re refreshing your home with new furniture or need expert styling, our designers are here to help. Schedule a consultation to experience the craftsmanship and personalized service that sets us apart. We specialize in floor plans, layouts, and 2 D & 3D renderings, bringing your project to life before it begins. Our remodeling expertise ensures every detail, from furnishings to lighting, matches your style and nee ds. Visit our expanded showroom today and take the firs t step toward your dream home with Shae Design Studio .
Regal Celebration of Lights
November 29 • 5:15-9:00 pm
Krutch Park Extension, Market Square & Market Street
SEE THE LIGHTING of the 42-foot tall Mickey Mallonee Christmas in the City Tree in Krutch Park Extension. Live music with Jingle Five starts at 5:15 pm with tree lighting ceremony at 6:00.
Market Street will have local businesses doing crafts with children, stop by The Home Depot’s Little Elves Workshop, and make a card to be sent to our local veterans with Holidays for Heroes. Don’t forget to stop by and see the miniature train set. Admission is free!
The Ripple Effect of Delivering Hope
MANY PEOPLE in our community already know that Random Acts of Flowers improves the emotional health and wellbeing of individuals in healthcare facilities by delivering hope, encouragement, and personal moments of kindness through the delivery of flower arrangements created from repurposed flowers. But, what they - and you - may not realize is that the impact of our mission goes far beyond our direct recipients in hospitals, assisted living homes, hospice, and other community health organizations. Every arrangement delivered also positively impacts family members, friends, healthcare providers, and our volunteers. Recipients of our repurposed bouquets enjoy receiving the flowers and getting the emotional boost the bouquet provides them.
“I was recently in the hospital when your volunteer delivered a wonderful bouquet to me. These flowers brightened my room and lifted my spirits during a difficult time. Ironically, the flowers arrived almost six years to the day that my spouse and I donated the flowers from our wedding to your organization. I never imagined I would be a recipient of your generous work, but
it was a blessing to experience the joy and comfort your organization creates first hand. Thank you for spreading beauty and joy in our community.” - Lisa, recipient Family and friends can also see the positive effect that a floral delivery has on their loved ones.
“My mother received the most beautiful flower arrangement from Random Acts of Flowers yesterday. The bouquet is so beautiful with white and purple flowers and my mother kept looking at them and smiling! Thank you very much for this wonderful act of love, talent, and kindness!” - Vickie, family member
A recipient’s healthcare providers and caregivers also get an emotional boost knowing that their patients and residents
will be having better days because of the flowers and moments of kindness and connection extended to them.
“Thank you for delivering all those flower arrangements to the patients at our healthcare facility; they absolutely loved them! It was wonderful and put such a big smile on their faces! This delivery brought so much more than beautiful flowers; it brought joy and warmth!” - Erika, healthcare provider Random Acts of Flowers volunteers also get an emotional boost knowing that their time, energy, and efforts do not just provide one better day to a recipient, but many better days as the flowers will be a recurring reminder that someone cared for them and is thinking of them.
This is what Random Acts of Flowers calls “The Ripple Effect of Delivering Hope.” Our deliveries of hope and encouragement not only have a positive impact on the recipient, but also on the recipient’s family members, friends, caregivers, volunteers, and - hopefullyyou, too!
If you want to make an impact with Random Acts of Flowers by volunteering or making a donation, call us at 865-6339082, email us at info@RAFKnoxville.org, or visit RAFKnoxville.org.
Volunteer making a delivery.
Invest in Your Garage and Add Value to Your Life
BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM
WHILE
WE OFTEN update the interiors of our homes, our garages steadfastly carry on without so much as a nod. The years pass, and this important room languishes as stains and clutter accumulate. What’s worseyou’re leaving valuable storage and activity space on the table. An intentionally designed garage brings organization, function, and value to your home. Read on and improve your quality of life… by giving your garage a new life.
Use What You Have
Does your garage have windows? Take advantage of the natural light. Add a countertop and custom cabinets underneath to create a well-lit area for potting and gardening. Or, design an organized center to store and enjoy crafts, hobbies, or your prized tool collection. Don’t forget to add LED lighting for when the sun goes down!
Design for What You Need
If you had more space for storage, what would you use it for?
Entertaining? Extra household supplies? Imagine game-day festivities on a beautiful and spill-proof epoxy polyaspartic floor, bulky sports equipment neatly hung with versatile slatwall, or cabinetry that is less deep at floor level and roomier up above to allow clear pathways around vehicles.
Got Something to Hide?
Use custom storage to keep items out of sight but still within reach. Overhead racks lift seasonal or bulky possessions out of the way, custom cabinets cover irrigation controls or other panels while still providing convenient storage, and a hidden safe keeps valuables locked up tight.
Don’t Let Your Garage Go to Waste
Do you have unclaimed property? If your garage has never been updated, the answer is yes! Look at your garage with fresh eyes and envision the boost it will give to your home’s worth - and your own lifestyle. Call the professionals at Designer Garages for help. Chris McKenry and his team are passionate about storage that will fit any budget. Let your garage start working for you. Support local business and visit their West Knoxville showroom today!
Designer Garages
From Closets by McKenry
201 Center Park Drive, #1080 Knoxville, TN 37922
865.268.4868
DesignerGarages.com
INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &
MORE NOUVEAU CLASSICS
This Ester Sgabello Stool by Porada has a swiveling stool with solid Ash wood or Canaletta Walnut seat frame, base in black chromed metal, and seat covered in the fabrics of the collection. This lift stool accommodates counter to bar height and is available at MORE Nouveau Classics, 310 W Jackson Avenue in Knoxville, 865.525.4755, NouveauClassics.com.
MAKER EXCHANGE
Visit the Curio at Maker Exchange and shop locally-made artwork from 150+ makers. This piece, Elephant Cookie, is from the Menagerie Series by local artist Gared Luquet (acrylic on wood panel, 30x30 inches). His work transcends the traditional portrayal of wildlife, mirroring the similarities in emotional expressions shared between human beings and animals in the modern world. Stop by at 710 Clinch Avenue in downtown Knoxville between the Marriott and Tennessean Hotels, 865.637.4561, or shop online at MakerExchangeKnox.com.
RIVER SPORTS OUTFITTERS
Bundle up with Smartwool socks, the ultimate stocking stuffer to keep your loved ones cozy. Pair them with a River Sports Outfitters gift card for endless outdoor possibilities, and make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Available at River Sports Outfitters, 2918 Sutherland Avenue in Knoxville, 865.523.0066, RiverSportsOutfitters.com.
SHAE DESIGN STUDIO
This chandelier features a distressed metal frame with cascading wooden beads for a rustic, elegant look. It has eight candle-style bulbs and adds organic warmth and charmperfect as a statement piece in dining rooms or living areas. Available at Shae Design Studio, 9700 Kingston Pike in Knoxville, 865.313.2656, ShaeDesigns.com.
SIMPSON’S MEATS
Whether preparing for your next big get-together or cooking for a weeknight meal, have peace of mind in knowing exactly where your food is coming from. Simpson’s Meats provides quality beef, chicken, pork, and other products straight from the farm. Delectable Holiday Gift Boxes are now available. Shop their local market at 10830 Murdock Drive in West Knoxville, 865.336.6036, SimpsonsMeats.com.
RELAXED & REFINED MENSWEAR
The perfect gift item, these Liiton crystal glasses are unlike anything else on the market! Each X1 crystalline glass features a raised bottom that mimics an iconic mountain range, peak, or canyon from all across the world. The unique designs chill and aerate your libation for the perfect sipping experience. Available at Relaxed & Refined Menswear, 205 North Main Street in downtown Sweetwater, 423.271.6101.
CELEBRATE THE
Holiday Season at Historic Westwood
HISTORIC
WESTWOOD is one of Knoxville’s premier historic house experiences. It was built in 1890 for John Edwin Lutz and his wife, Adelia Armstrong Lutz, a talented young woman who has emerged as a highly regarded artist and leader in the Knoxville arts community. The couple commissioned Knoxville’s architectural firm, Baumann Brothers, to design Westwood. The result was an impressive Queen Anne-style house with Richardsonian Romanesque elements in stone. Westwood is a member of the Historic Artists’ Home & Studios program, a coalition of museums that were the homes and working studios of American artists.
Celebrate the holidays in grand style at the beautiful former residence of artist Adelia Armstrong Lutz. On Saturday, December 7, Historic Westwood will open its doors for the annual Candlelight Holiday Home Tour. The grand home will be filled with beautiful holiday decorations, including a tree featuring handmade Victorian ornaments created by the Knoxville Chapter of the Embroiderers Guild of America. Experience self-guided tours, holiday music, and refreshments, including mulled wine and cider.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children (12 and under) and are available to purchase at KnoxHeritage.org. Tours will be available at 5, 6, and 7 pm. Free parking is available at the adjacent Laurel Church of Christ located at 3457 Kingston Pike.
Make Historic Westwood part of your family’s holiday tradition. Explore more at KnoxHeritage.org.
STORM DAMAGE REPAIR SCAMS
HOMEOWNERS OFTEN face urgent repairs to restore their property after severe weather storms or other natural disasters. Unfortunately, scam artists posing as contractors seize these moments of vulnerability, promising quick fixes while leaving behind shoddy work or disappearing after taking payment.
Repair scams typically follow a pattern. Scammers will target affected neighborhoods with unsolicited offers to inspect damage or provide repair services. They may claim to have noticed damage to a roof or other parts of the home that the homeowner’s insurance would cover. Sometimes, they will even ask homeowners to sign a form before starting the inspection, which might give the scam artist authorization to act as the homeowner’s agent with the insurance company.
They may offer to manage everything as long as the homeowner signs over the insurance payment. These individuals may then disappear with the payment or deliver subpar repairs, leaving the homeowner with bigger problems to resolve.
Here are some scam variations:
Free Inspections: Flyers or in-person solicitations offering free roof or home inspections are a common tactic. They often find “significant damage” that will be covered by insurance. Once paid, they may vanish without completing any work.
Discount Offers: Some scammers will offer repairs at a discount because they supposedly have leftover materials from a previous job. These high-pressure offers are often “only available if accepted immediately.”
Insurance Deductible Scams: The scammer offers to waive or refund the homeowner’s insurance deductible, further enticing the homeowner to sign over insurance checks - a red flag for a scam in progress.
Protect Yourself from Repair Scams
• Be wary of unsolicited offers - Legitimate contractors don’t go door to door after storms looking for work.
• Be skeptical of “insurance-covered” repairs
- It could be a scam if a contractor is overly eager to see your insurance policy or offers to waive the deductible.
• Take your time - If a deal seems too good to be true or is only valid immediately, it’s likely a scam.
• Verify contractor licenses - In Tennessee, verify a contractor’s license through the state’s license verification website.
• Understand your rights - Ensure that contracts include a cancellation clause - typically three days.
Ask for references, confirm credentials, and get multiple quotes before agreeing to any work. Always contact your insurance company directly if you’re uncertain of what your policy covers
Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance
10851 Hardin Valley Road Knoxville, TN 37932
865.247.6517 fbiTN.com
Discerning the Changing Seasons of Your Life
BY DR. JIM BAILEY
IN LATE AUGUST, I was in the mountains of North Carolina and, though it was still summer, the mornings were fall-like, with temperatures in the 50s and highs around 80. Autumn is my favorite season, and I could see the gold of summer afternoons being replaced by the silvery hue of fall. I know nature was teasing me, and the next week the summer heat returned. Still, it was a nice reprieve. The weekend was a gift - a well-timed and deeply appreciated something from someone who knows and cares about me because I, too, had been going through a seasonal change.
We don’t usually think about our lives consisting of seasons and rhythms - well, not in a personal sense. We may look forward to the things the seasonal calendar will bring - fall football and pumpkin spice, Christmas in winter, flowers in springtime, and weddings and vacations in summer - but we seldom think of our lives having rhythms, chapters, or transitions. Not in present tense, at least.
Past tense is different. When we reflect on the past, we tend to knit events and
experiences by the threads that connect them, then suddenly, unintentionally, we perceive themes. We link events of our lives into “childhood,” “college,” “military service,” “love attained,” “love lost,” “adventures,” “tragedies,” “parenthood,” “empty-nesting,” “caregiving,” “achievements,” “loss and infirmity,” and more - giving names to the seasons and chapters of our lives. We tend to think of the past in seasons and chapters.
So, it’s surprising that we don’t usually think about our current circumstances and future lives this way. Though we intuitively understand the seasonality of life, we don’t ask friends and loved ones, “In what season (or chapter) of life do you find yourself right now?” Nor do we ask ourselves, while amid difficulties and hardships, “What’s the theme of this chapter in which I find myself?”
It helps if you recognize you are living a story. This summer, I watched a documentary on the film Forrest Gump; a metaphor for life-as-story if ever there was one. The feather seen flitting on the breeze at the beginning and end of the film, and the iconic line “Life is like a box of chocolates” can lead you to think the chapters of Forrest’s life are coincidental intersections
of fate and circumstance. But the continuous positive impact of Forrest’s life on others’ reveals a larger theme or purpose to his seemingly random story.
Your life is a story, and whether it’s a story worth telling or sharing is, in large part, up to you. If it stays alone, beginning and ending as only your story, then it can only be a small story, but if it intersects and joins a larger and grander story, then it also can be large and grand. (My heart breaks for people who are content to live small, uninteresting stories.)
If your life is like any of the great stories, it’s comprised of chapters where the hero (you) sets a goal, gets prepared for the challenges to come, faces - and hopefully overcomes - those challenges, and recovers from the challenges. Great stories always follow this arc and rarely have chapters of complete inactivity. Along the way, the hero herself or himself is (subtly or dramatically) changed by the seasonal process so that the person who returns home at the story’s end is different from the one who left home at its beginning. For better or for worse, stories are always about change.
While hiking that August weekend, I met two girls and a guy, around 20 years old, sitting on a log in the woods and engaged in thoughtful conversation. I introduced myself and asked what they’d been discussing as I came up the trail. They said they were talking about their respective college majors and whether they had chosen “the right path” for themselves. What followed was a 45 minute conversation about how each of them is wired, what they want most in their lives, and what those things say about their vocational choices.
Although they didn’t know it, they’re heroes in a preparation chapter who happened to meet a white-haired and bearded old man walking in the woods who, in turn, gave them some insights for their journey. I, on the other hand, was in a recovery chapter and badly in need of some energy and hope - that three thoughtful kids sitting on a log in the woods gave me without knowing. Sometimes stories, and the needs of their heroes, intersect.
Regardless of where you find yourself right now, it’s probably helpful to think about your life as a story comprised of seasons and chapters. Maybe you’re in a chapter where you’re struggling to set a goal or perhaps one where you’re preparing to face a challenge. You may be in the middle of a challenge (or a battle) or trying to rest and recover from one. Don’t wait for hindsight. Discern the season or chapter you’re in right now, then determine what you most need to live this chapter well and have a story worth telling.
Scenic Byways & Parkways
Within a 2 Hours’ Drive of Knoxville
SCENIC ROADWAYS are a wonderful way to see the beauty of our area without ever needing to leave the comfort of your vehicle. These roadways are all within a two-hour drive of Knoxville - great for a day trip or for adding some extra scenery on your next visit to Atlanta or Western North Carolina. Research your route online for additional stops at local diners, museums, and attractions to round out your excursion.
Some of these roadways are regionally or nationally “designated,” meaning they have archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic intrinsic qualities. The byways and parkways exist to enhance, preserve, and raise the recognition of the mountain and rural beauty while generating pride among the communities they meander through. They are often the road less traveled, giving us more opportunities to get off the main road and enjoy a slower, more scenic pace.
For more information on these and other scenic roadways, visit TennesseeRiverValleyGeoTourism.org, Fhwaapps.fhwa.dot.gov, TNTrailsandByWays.com, and many others. Be sure to check NPS.gov for weather updates and road closures. Enjoy the journey!
B. Smoky Mountain Scenic Byway about an hour from Knoxville
16.5 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center outside of Gatlinburg to the Oconoluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee through Newfound Gap
At the highest point on the Smoky Mountain Scenic Byway, Newfound Gap is a forest that straddles the Tennessee-North Carolina border. It is also the site where President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially dedicated Smoky Mountain National Park in 1940. Overall, the byway ascends about 3,000 feet and ends near the Qualla Boundary of the eastern band of the Cherokee Reservation. Highlights include numerous pullovers with breathtaking skies and mountain views, including Clingman’s Dome (recently renamed Kuwohi). While you can take in the views from your car, you can also park and walk a short, quiet walkways to stretch your legs.
A. Foothills Parkway about 45 minutes from Knoxville
33 miles long from Pigeon Forge to near Townsend
The Foothills Parkway has been in the works for some 75 years, with the southern most 17 miles completed in 1966 and the next 16 miles didn’t open until December of 2018. There is a short northern section that opened in 1968, but the two do not connect due to lack of funding.
The southern section of the parkway offers spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains on one side and the Tennessee Valley on the other. On clear days, the Cumberland Mountains 50 miles to the west can be seen. It is also a wonderful spot for stargazing, as the overlooks face away from the larger cities.
C. Blue Ridge Parkway around 2 hours from Knoxville 469 miles from Cherokee, NC, to Staunton/Charlottesville, VA, area
Don’t forget about our end of the Blue Ridge Parkway! Accessible from Cherokee, Maggie Valley, or Waynesville, NC - all around 2 hours away. The Parkway then loops back up to Asheville on its way up through the Pisgah National Forest and on to mid-state Virginia.
An experience unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway actually protects a diversity of plants and animals and provides opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special, so even a short stint on this route is worth the drive.
D. Cherohala Skyway about an hour from Knoxville
42 miles from Tellico Plains, TN, to Robbinsville, NC
Cruise this National Scenic Byway that gains over 4,000 feet in elevation, and treat yourself to sprawling views of the Great Smoky Mountains to the northeast and the Tennessee River Valley to the west. Named for the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests ( Chero and Hala equal Cherohala ), the path follows the original routes along the Tellico River used by settlers throughout history.
Checklocal websitesfor possibleroad closuresdue toHurricane Helene
The Skyway, completed in 1990, links the Cherokee National Forest to the Nantahala National Forest with a stretch of winding roads and abundant scenic overlooks and vistas offering a glimpse into the unspoiled forest environment where Cherokee tribes and early pioneers traveled and settled in the Appalachian Mountains.
E. Ocoee Scenic Byway about 1 1/2 hours from Knoxville
26 miles from Benton, TN, to the GA border near Ducktown
This first-ever U.S. Forest Service scenic byway was designated in the Cherokee National Forest in Polk County. It passes through the Ocoee River Gorge as it winds its way up to the crest of Chilhowee Mountain. It features the Ocoee Whitewater Center (from the 1996 Atlanta Olympics) and dramatic scenic bluffs along the Ocoee River and Gorge.
This byway is a gateway to one of the prettiest, scenic drives in the Eastern United States with views of Big Frog and the Chilhowee mountains and wilderness areas. There is a magnificent overlook of the TVA dam that creates Lake Ocoee with Sugarloaf Mountain’s sharp peak in the background, a prominent landmark readily visible for many miles from nearly every direction.
F. Georgia Mountain Parkway slightly over 2 hours from Knoxville
76 miles long between Blairsville and Jasper, GA
The closest entrance to this “low on traffic and high on breathtaking scenery” route is in Blue Ridge, GA, but starting in Blairsville adds less than 10 minutes drive. This quick and easy drive leads you through the famed backcountry of northern Georgia through
the towns of Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Blairsville, and Hiawassee. You will enjoy the fantastic mountain and forest scenery, as well as several quaint towns and villages - all dotted with lakes, wildlife, and historical landmarks.
G. Lookout Mountain Parkway a little less than 2 hours from Knoxville
93 miles between Chattanooga, TN, and Gadsden, AL
Named as one of the most scenic drives in America by Reader’s Digest , Lookout Mountain is beautiful year-round. The parkway spans three states as it stretches across Lookout Mountain with its waterfalls, canyons, scenic vistas, unique towns and villages, state and national parks, and preserves. Access nearby Little River Canyon National Preserve with one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi River - often described as the “Grand Canyon of the East” - and be sure to add Cloudland Canyon State Park to your list of stops.
It is also home to the The World’s Longest Yard Sale that takes place in the month of August where ,more than 5,000 yard sale vendors line the parkway and the US 127 corridor for some 650 miles of bargains.
H. Scenic Route 111 about 1 1/2 hours from Knoxville
74 miles from Cookeville to above Chattanooga
While not a “nationally registered” parkway or byway, State Road 111, the unofficial “Cumberland Plateau Scenic Route,” is a lovely drive. It ascends the east edge of the plateau, crosses the Falling Water River, then meanders its way through the Sequatchie River Valley. Experience tranquility and awe, the plateau holds dense woodlands of oak, pine, and hickory intermingled with grassy flatlands, state parks, and small towns - scenery you don’t want to miss!
Courtesy of Wikimedia Common/Brian
Stansberry
Courtesy of Wikimedia Common/Brian Stansberry
The Perfect Holiday Gift
Unlimited Out-of-Door Activities for Family & Friends
WHILE SOME of your out-of-doors social events may be moving back indoors for the coming season, why not surprise your family this holiday with a special gift that will ensure a future of unlimited out-ofdoor get-togethers? Winter is an excellent time to get a totally unique underdeck ceiling system installed under your home’s existing raised deck. This underdecking system will ensure that future family (and friends!) gatherings will be protected from unexpected and unwanted rain and next year’s searing summertime sun.
“This is the perfect time to weatherproof all of your future 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 from planning to completion. Because your project will be finished this winter, you can begin enjoying your new outdoor living space every temperate day here in East Tennessee.”
Their patented system helps extend your year-round outdoor season of enjoyment by protecting you from early spring showers, July and August’s relentless sun, and autumn rains.
Undercover Systems works with you to discover which patented products will perfectly complement your existing architecture and landscaping plan. Their attention to detail and customer service comes from years of experience. Homeowners appreciate the fact that Undercover Systems does not use those generic, off-the-shelf components used by the competition. Every ceiling system they install is customized to perfectly fit your home - crafted to create a seamless transition from your home’s interior to your new covered out-of-door living space.
A complaint-free member of the Better Business Bureau, Undercover Systems offers homeowners the peace of mind that they deserve in a home improvement building contractor. Why not surprise your family this holiday season with the gift of unlimited and memorable out-of-door activities for the New Year? Call Jim Conn at 423-267-0091 today and let the memories begin.
BILL PAYNE
L♥VES THE BLUES
BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM
IN CONCERT • THE CAVERNS IN GRUNDY COUNTY • FEBRUARY 22, 2025
Boomerocity, co-founder and keyboardist Bill Payne talked about their upcoming February show at The Caverns in Pelham, TN, and the band’s new album, Sam’s Place.
Payne’s impact and influence on Little Feat is incalculable. His piano style spans all genres, and his stage presence is often described as dynamic. Sam’s Place is the band’s 29th album that offers up a fresh take on their musical journey, as well as showcases the band’s iconic sound.
Payne proudly said of the album, “I tell you what, we’re really proud of this album for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that it finally gets to spotlight Sam Clayton. He sings on every track. There’s one original song on there called ‘Milkman’ that Sam, Fred Tackett, and Scott Gerard wrote.” Later adding, “Sam Clayton is the real deal.”
Before you think that Payne is dishing up typical PR hype, you should consider his body of work against which he makes such comments.
“I mean, I’ve worked with - I’ll drop a couple more names - B.B. King, Otis Rush, Buddy Guy, Taj Mahal, Etta James. I think I know what the blues sounds like, and Sam surely hits all the right boxes as far as I’m concerned. I’m just saying, boy, if you haven’t heard Little Feet in a while, you’re going to need to check this one out!”
A unique experience happened during the Memphis recording of Sam’s Place that involves a special piano. Payne said, “I was playing on... purportedly Jerry Lee Lewis’s piano. And I said, ‘Well, it’s kind of like George Washington slept here.’ I was looking for scuff marks on the top keys! But that instrument played itself. It was fun.”
Approaching 60 years performing as Little Feat, the band has developed a loyal following and a roster of songs that are fan favorites. Payne shared some of the feedback and stories that he’s heard from fans regarding Little Feat songs.
“But to hear that somebody, maybe even a couple of people over the years, have come out of comas, for example, and the music helped bring them out of the coma. It touches your heart. And
people that are - maybe they don’t have long to live, but they say, ‘Listen, my dad’s a huge fan of yours. He grew up listening to your music. I don’t know how much longer he’s got.’
“I called the guy up myself, and I thanked him for listening to us and being an inspiration the way he’s - with his courage and fighting to live life. I mean, we don’t make the call when we leave, although sometimes I wish that were different, too. I don’t think we need to suffer unduly.”
For those who haven’t yet experienced Little Feat’s latest album, it’s a must-listen. Follow the band at LittleFeat.net for updates on their tour schedule and future releases.
It is truly a musical treat to be able to still watch legendary bands like Little Feat perform. Knoxvillians have such a chance by catching their show at The Caverns in Pelham, TN, on February 22, 2025. As if that is not exciting enough, Jim Lauderdale is the opening act.
Payne shares much more about the band’s current line up, the book he is writing, and his thoughts on the current music business in this in-depth interview, and it can be watched in its entirety at Boomerocity. com, its YouTube channel, and on all 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.
Photo by Wikimedia Commons/Bryan Ledgard
THE TRIBUTE BAND Disciple of the Garden (D.O.G.)
pays homage to the talents and legacy of Chris Cornell and his bandmates in Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog, and Audioslave. Based out of New York, and led by Joe Leo, guitarist and lead vocalist, D.O.G. is ready to deliver your favorite ’90s grunge, hard rock hits, and select Chris Cornell deep cuts with Eddie Evelyn on lead guitar, Vic Pena on bass, and Ron Vidal on drums.
Joe emulates Chris Cornell’s captivating stage presence and is the closest embodiment both visually and vocally you’ll ever see. D.O.G. channels the raw power and emotional depth of Cornell's iconic music. As passionate fans and musicians, the band strives to bring the same intensity and authenticity to the stage, keeping Chris Cornell's spirit alive through every note and lyric. Each performance aims to honor his unparalleled voice, poignant lyrics, and groundbreaking contributions to rock music.
Performing all of the hits and a selection of deep tracks from albums such as Badmotorfinger , Superunknown , Down on the Upside , King Animal , Out of Exile , Revelations , and Temple of the Dog , Disciple of the Garden offers concertgoers a moment of audio bliss, taking them on a journey through the eclectic sounds of Soundgarden, Audioslave, Temple of the Dog, and Chris Cornell solo works as well.
Join them as they pay homage to the man whose music continues to inspire and move millions around the world.
Westmoreland Water Wheel and Gatepost
THE WESTMORELAND
Water Wheel and Gatepost are located at the intersection of Sherwood Drive and Westland Drive just west of Northshore Drive. Together, these structures mark the eastern entrance to the Westmoreland Heights subdivision. The Westmoreland Wheelhouse was built in 1923 in the Tudor Revival style. The gatepost was built opposite the wheel house in 1925, duplicating its style characteristics. Both the wheel house and gatepost were designed by noted local architects Barber & McMurray, and prominent local landscape architect Charles F. Lester provided the landscape design.
The water wheel is a steel overshot wheel purchased by Edward T. Manning, president of the Tennessee Mill & Mine Supply Company from the Fitz Water Wheel Company of Hanover, Pennsylvania. The wheel was installed by R.A. Calloway, an employee with the Tennessee Mill & Mine Supply Company. East Tennessee marble is the most notable exterior architectural feature of the structures; other architectural materials include wood, slate, and iron. A large spring located near the wheel house was used as a source to power the water wheel.
The Westmoreland Heights subdivision, located west and north of the water wheel, was developed in 1923 by Westmoreland Heights, Inc. From January until March 1925, Charles F. Lester designed the roads, engineers Sehorn & Kennedy surveyed and plotted the roads and lots, and O.N. Davis built the roads. The neighborhood was originally 180 acres and featured large lots and views of the Smoky Mountains. Real estate advertisements of the time described Westmoreland Heights as a premier residential development featuring no congestion, privacy, open space, pure air, and freedom from smoke and dust.
Although the water wheel was one of the initial factors making the development of the subdivision feasible, it also carried within it the seeds that ended its role as a supplier since its capacity was soon exceeded. On July 12, 1929, the residents of the Westmoreland Heights signed an agreement with Knoxville Power and Light Company for the supply of electricity and upgraded the water wheel’s infrastructure.
The land on which the structures are located was first settled in 1809 by Captain William Lyons, and ownership of much of the land continued with his descendants until 1923. The water wheel was built to generate electricity and water for the four original houses in the area, two of which were owned by Lyons’ descendants. The other owners included Edward T. Manning and Judge Daniel Clary Webb, a prominent Knoxville lawyer and the first Juvenile Court Judge in Knox County.
With the help of Knox Heritage, the Westmoreland Water Wheel and Gatepost were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013. The water wheel is well known to many Knoxvillians and is a significant statement about Knoxville’s early 20th century history and residential development.
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.
Biltmore Estate to Reopen
BY MARISSA JAMISON, BILTMORE SENIOR PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER
BILTMORE ESTATE announces its intention to reopen on Saturday, November 2, marking the beginning of its beloved holiday season, Christmas at Biltmore. The estate temporarily closed in response to the impact of Tropical Storm Helene across Western North Carolina.
For more than 125 years, Biltmore has witnessed the resilience and community spirit of the Asheville area. The response to Helene has resulted in signs that recovery is underway across the region. On the estate, crews have been working to repair damaged areas and preparations to welcome guests back in time for the holiday season.
Upon the November opening, Biltmore will be fully decorated for the Christmas season, and estate attractions and restaurants will be open. The estate’s lodging properties will welcome overnight guests. Wooded areas and some roads on the estate are still undergoing cleanup. Trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice.
While this reopening marks a step forward, the effects of Tropical Storm Helene are still being felt across the broader
Asheville community. Many businesses and roads in the Asheville area have reopened, while some areas are working to recover. Guests are encouraged to plan for the possibility of needing to take alternative routes when traveling to Biltmore.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers, and community volunteers,” said Bill Cecil, Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore. “As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses, and friends. Together, we can help restore the vibrancy
of Asheville and its surrounding areas.”
Christmas at Biltmore is a cherished tradition and has provided generations of guests with an awe-inspiring getaway filled with heartwarming traditions, comfort, and joy. Guests can choose between touring festive décor with a daytime visit or an elegant evening with live holiday music and historic rooms glowing in the soft light of fireplaces with a Candlelight visit.
For more information on how Biltmore is supporting the broader community during this recovery phase and ways to help, visit Biltmore.com/Helene-Response.
For more info about visiting this November through early January holiday season, visit Biltmore.com/Christmas.
NOVEMBER
THROUGHOUT THE MONTH
Beowulf: The First Avenger by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre through the 10th. For showtimes and tickets visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com.
Regional Globalism in the Tennessee Valley exhibit at the Ewing Gallery of Art and Architecture through December 4th.
Fragile: Group Ceramic Exhibition at Dogwood Arts Gallery through December 27th.
NOVEMBER 8
The 2024 Christmas Fair at the Expo Center from 2 to 8 pm. Also the 9th from 10 am to 8 pm and 10th from 12 to 5 pm.
Tavern Notes: Live Music at the Maker Exchange from 4 to 6 pm curated by Dogwood Arts.
Terra Madre Women in Clay 14th Annual Pottery Show & Sale at St. George Greek Orthodox Church from 5 to 8 pm. Also the 9th from 10 am to 4 pm.
Kidz Bop Live at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm.
NOVEMBER 9
UT Vols vs. MS State Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium.
Artist in Action - Keerthana Dudda at the Maker Exchange from 10 am to 6 pm curated by Dogwood Arts.
Christmas Marketplace at Historic Ramsey House at 10 am. Enjoy a unique shopping experience from artisans and vintage curators, food, entertainment, and more!
Fall Fungi ID Beginner Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 10 am. Fall Pollinator Walk at Knoxville Botanical Garden at 10 am.
The Living History Weekend at Fort Dickerson Park from 10 am to 4 pm. Also the 10th.
Native Landscape Certification Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 2 pm.
NOVEMBER 10
Old City Market on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm.
Civil War Battle of Campbell Station at Farragut Community Center at 1 pm.
Second Sunday Art Activity at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm. Hands-on art for K-6th grade.
Second Sunday Docent Tour at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 2 to 3 pm.
Milk Man and The Big Band at Ijams Nature Center from 2 to 4 pm.
NOVEMBER 11
Veterans Day
99th Veterans Day Parade along Gay Street in downtown Knoxville at 10:40 am.
NOVEMBER 12
4th Annual Morning Pointe Foundation Seniors Got Talent at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.
Knoxville Jazz Orchestra’s Jazz @ the Emporium with Mimi Terry at 7 pm.
American Patchwork Quartet at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 pm.
NOVEMBER 13
South Arts Film Series: City of a Million Dreams at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7 pm.
WDVX’s TN Shines Live featuring Andrew Marlin Stringband, Rachel Baiman, and Robinella at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.
NOVEMBER 14
Film Fest Knox at Regal Riviera Stadium 8 through the 17th. For info visit FilmFestKnox.com.
Local Voices: Author Talks with Jim Hartsell at Historic Ramsey House from 11 am to 2 pm.
Maker Resource Fair at the Emporium from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Free event for artists, makers, and creatives!
Marble City Opera’s Bon Appetit! and a cakebaking class at The Cutting Edge Classroom Cooking School at 7 pm. Enjoy the opera, then make your own cake to take home. For tickets visit MarbleCityOpera.com.
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s The Firebird at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 15th.
Pellissippi State Community College Fall Instrumental Concert at Clayton Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm.
Godspeed You! Black Emperor at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.
NOVEMBER 15
November Full Moon Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 5 to 7 pm. Registration is required.
Holiday Open House at Knoxville Botanical Garden’s Historic Howell Family Home from 5 to 8 pm.
Friends of the Library: Meet Me at the AJ a behind-the-scenes event at the Historic Andrew Johnson Hotel from 6 to 9 pm benefiting the Knox County Public Library’s Archive of Moving Image and Sound (TAMIS). Ice Bears vs. Birmingham Bulls Military Appreciation Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.
For Knoxville’s andMarketFarmers’dates seelocations, page17
Preacher Lawson at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.
NOVEMBER 16
Birding Basics at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8:30 to 11 am. Registration is required.
National Bird Show at the World’s Fair Exhibition Hall from 9 am to 5 pm. Free admission.
Holiday Handcrafters Fair at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center in Townsend from 10 am to 4 pm.
SoundBath Meditation at Knoxville Botanical Garden from 10:30 to 11:30 am.
NOVEMBER 17
Seven Islands Natural and Cultural History Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 1 to 4 pm.
East Tennessee Bluegrass Association
Monthly Jam at Ijams Nature Center from 2 to 5 pm.
Sal Vulcano: Everything’s Fine Tour at the Civic Auditorium at 5 pm.
The Lone Bellow: By Request Only Tour at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
NOVEMBER 19
Sign Painters presented by Knox Heritage’s Preservation Network at Central Cinema at 6 pm.
Theory of a Deadman at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm.
Justin Timberlake: The Forget Tomorrow World Tour at Food City Center’s Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:30 pm.
NOVEMBER 20
Birds of Prey Program at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 10 to 10:45 am.
NOVEMBER 21
Tavern Notes - Write Night at the Maker Exchange from 6 to 9 pm. Calling all poets, singer-songwriters, and comics for an Open Mic Night by Dogwood Arts.
Real Good Kitchen Foundation: Real Good Gathering at Knoxville Botanical Garden’s Dogwood building from 6 to 9 pm.
Ice Bears vs. Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs Basevol Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.
A Christmas Carol at the Clarence Brown Theatre at 7:30 pm. Shows run through December 21st.
Daryl Hall at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.
Pellissippi State Community College Fall Jazz Concert at Clayton Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm.
THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE
NOVEMBER 22
Tavern Notes: Live Music with Blue Ridge Gathering at the Maker Exchange from 4 to 6 pm curated by Dogwood Arts. Christmas at Chilhowee at Chilhowee Park at the Bandstand from 6 to 9 pm. Enjoy the tree lighting along with free activities, including photos with Santa, crafts, holiday “Touch-A-Truck,” and hayrides around the park to look at the lights.
Ice Bears vs. Fayetteville Marksmen Chilly’s Teddy Bear Chuck at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.
The Music of ABBA at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 pm.
UT Opera’s Cimarosa’s Il Matrimonio Segreto (The Secret Marriage) at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 23rd at 2:30 & 7:30 pm and the 24th at 2:30 pm.
NOVEMBER 23
UT Vols vs. UTEP Miners at Neyland Stadium.
Winter Woodpecker Walk at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Cherokee Caverns Movie in the Cave: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation at Historic Cherokee Caverns. Showtimes are 11 am, 1:15, 3:30, 5:45 & 8:00 pm. Chairs will be provided, or bring a small camp chair and blanket. Self-guided tours of the cave available 30 minutes before and after the showing.
Old City Market Small Business Saturday on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm. Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Home Alone Movie Concert at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.
NOVEMBER 24
Retropolitan Craft Fair Holiday Market at the Mill & Mine from 11 am to 6 pm.
Winter Tree Identification at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 1 to 3 pm. Registration is required.
NOVEMBER 25
Light the Park at Founders Park and along Campbell Station Road in Farragut. Fun begins with Countdown to Light the Park from 5:30 to 7 pm with live entertainment, crafts, and refreshments as you wait for Santa to flip the big switch! Lights are on from dusk until 10 pm nightly through January 1st. New this year - a synthetic ice rink at Mayor Ralph McGill Plaza open through January 4th.
NOVEMBER 27
Fantasy of Trees 40th Anniversary Celebration at the Convention Center through December 1st. A benefit for East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
NOVEMBER 28
Thanksgiving Day
Turkey Trot 5K & Little Gobbler Kid’s Run at The Mill & Mine. Little Gobbler Run at 8 am, 5K at 8:45 am. A benefit for Variety East Tennessee. Register at KTC.org.
NOVEMBER 29
Elf on the Shelf® Scavenger Hunt and Peppermint Trail begin in downtown Knoxville. DowntownKnoxville.org for more info.
Knoxville’s Holidays on Ice in Market Square through January 5th.
19th Annual East TN Regional Student Art Exhibition at Knoxville Museum of Art through January 12th.
Gobble Wobble After Thanksgiving Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 9 to 11 am.
Regal Celebration of Lights at Krutch Park Extension, Market Square, and Market Street from 5:15 to 9 pm. Tree lighting at 6 pm.
Ice Bears vs. Evansville Thunderbolts Black Friday Blackout at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.
NOVEMBER 30
Fire Ecology Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 1 to 2:30 pm. Ice Bears vs. Evansville Thunderbolts Corgi Races at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
DECEMBER 1
11th Annual Holiday Market at Ijams Nature Center from 10 am to 3 pm.
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Classical Christmas: Messiah at the Tennessee Theatre at 2:30 pm.
DECEMBER 3
Holiday Sparkles & Spirits at Cherokee Country Club at 6:30 pm. A benefit for the Joy of Music School. For info or tickets visit JoyofMusicSchool.org.
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 4th-8th.
DECEMBER 5
Birds of Prey at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 10 to 10:45 am.
Celebrate the Season at Farragut Community Center from 4:30 to 7 pm. Pics with Santa, cookie decorating, crafts, and a movie!
Tomáseen Foley’s Celtic Christmas at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7 pm.
Pellissippi State Community College Holiday Spectacular at Clayton Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm.
DECEMBER 6
Santa at the Sunsphere in downtown Knoxville through the 8th. Advance reservations required at VisitKnoxville.com/ santa-at-the-sunsphere.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre through the 22nd. For showtimes and tickets visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com.
Friends of the Library Used Book Sale at the Knox County Bearden Branch Library from 10 am to 5 pm. Also the 7th.
Christmas in the Cave at Historic Cherokee Caverns. Fridays from 5 to 8 pm, Saturdays & Sundays from 3 to 8 pm through the 22nd. Visit CherokeeCaverns.com for info.
First Friday on Market Square, Gay Street, The Old City, and Downtown North beginning at 5 pm.
Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night Knoxville at the Emporium Center at 5:30 pm.
51st Annual WIVK Christmas Parade along Gay Street at 7 pm.
Ice Bears vs. Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs Preds Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.
DECEMBER 7
34th Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tour in Old North Knoxville from 4 to 9 pm. Also the 8th from 1 to 5 pm.
Appalachian Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Civic Auditorium at 7 pm. Also the 8th at 3 pm.
Ginger Billy: Backwoods Comedy Tour at the Bijou Theatre at 7 & 9:30 pm.
Keyboards at Christmas at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7 pm.
DECEMBER 8
Old City Market on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm.
Second Sunday Art Activity at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm. Hands-on art for K-6th grade.
Second Sunday Docent Tour at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 2 to 3 pm.
Knoxville Community Band Christmas Concert at Bearden Middle School at 3 pm.
Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s A Creole Christmas at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm. All event dates and times subject to change.
Sourdough from Scratch
AS THE WEATHER gets cooler, what better way to celebrate friendship and camaraderie than with comforting foods all can enjoy? While sourdoughs and friendship breads go in and out of fashion, you can make them a staple of your inner circle with recipes that are easier to make and share than they may appear.
Sourdough is known for its characteristic tangy flavor, chewy texture, and crisp, crackly crust. Unlike most breads, sourdough does not use commercial yeast in order to rise. Instead, it is made with a “sourdough starter” that has live fermented cultures that act as a natural leavening agent. The naturally occurring acids and long fermentation help to break down the gluten, making it more digestible and easy for the body to absorb making it a healthier option when compared to most store bought loaves.
Sourdough Starter, a 7-day process that may seem lengthy at first glance, requires just a few minutes in the kitchen each day. This affordable, madefrom-scratch solution includes just two ingredients - unbleached flower and warm water - so you can whip up favorites like Plain Sourdough, Everything Loaf, Cinnamon Brown Sugar Loaf, and Chocolate Loaf.
Some might be tempted to give up on a weeklong recipe, but if you can keep a houseplant alive, you can finish this simple starter and reap its delicious rewards! A little starter goes a long way - if you only bake a few times a month, sourdough starter can be kept in the fridge and “fed” once a week. If you’re an avid baker, store your starter at room temperature and “feed” it daily. Sourdough bread making can require some finessing, so experiment and enjoy your creations!
Day 1: In glass bowl, stir 50 grams flour and 50 grams warm water. Let sit at room temperature, covered.
Day 2: Add 50 grams flour and 50 grams warm water to bowl. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.
Day 3: Discard half the starter. Add 100 grams flour and 100 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.
Day 4: Discard half the starter. Add 150 grams flour and 150 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.
Day 5: Discard half the starter then pour remaining starter into Mason jar. Add 150 grams flour and 150 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.
Day 6: Discard half the starter. Add 200 grams flour and 200 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.
Day 7: Place warm water in bowl and add spoonful of starter to water. If it floats, it’s ready to make bread. If it sinks, repeat day 6 instructions. If not floating by day 10, unfortunately, you’ll need to throw it out and start over.
Tips: To measure correctly, place empty bowl on scale then clear to zero before each measurement.
If making bread every day, starter will need to be “fed” every day. If not making bread that day, starter can stay at room temperature and be fed every other day. Starter can be safely stored in refrigerator up to 10 days, covered, without feeding.
COURTESY OF FFE
RECIPE COURTESY OF “COOKIN’ SAVVY”
Photo by
Plain Sourdough
RECIPE COURTESY OF “COOKIN’ SAVVY”
Ingredients and Utensils:
• Medium bowl
• Warm water
• Sourdough starter
• Salt
• Unbleached all-purpose flour
• Silicone spoon
• Dutch oven with lid
• Sharp knife
Directions:
In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water, 90 grams sourdough starter, and 10 grams salt. Stir well, then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes. Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat the above process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double. Sprinkle flour on counter or mat, then spread dough flat on floured surface. Fold dough from sides, then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour. Heat oven to 500º with uncovered Dutch oven inside. Using a sharp knife, score dough ball, then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes, then remove lid and lower temperature to 475º for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205º. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving. Everything Loaf variation: Sprinkle dough with Everything Bagel seasoning before folding dough into a ball, then sprinkle again after baking before serving.
Cinnamon Brown Sugar Loaf
RECIPE COURTESY OF “COOKIN’ SAVVY”
Ingredients and Utensils:
• Medium bowl
• Warm water
• Sourdough starter
• Salt
• Unbleached all-purpose flour
• Silicone spoon
Chocolate Loaf
RECIPE COURTESY OF “COOKIN’ SAVVY”
Directions:
Ingredients and Utensils:
• Medium bowl
• Warm water
• Sourdough starter
• Salt
• Unbleached all-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Sugar
• Silicone spoon
• 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
• Dutch oven with lid
• Sharp knife
• 4 tablespoons softened butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• Dutch oven with lid
• Sharp knife
• Aluminum foil
Directions: In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water, 90 grams sourdough starter, and 10 grams salt. Stir well, then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes. Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times, then cover. Repeat the above process four times, then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.
In bowl, mix 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons cinnamon. Sprinkle flour on counter or mat, then spread dough flat on floured surface. Spread cinnamon mixture on dough. Fold dough from sides, pinching to keep cinnamon inside, then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.
Heat oven to 475º with uncovered Dutch oven inside. Using a sharp knife, score dough, then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven lined with aluminum foil. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes, then remove lid and lower temperature to 450º for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205º. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving.
In medium bowl, combine 350 grams warm water, 150 grams sourdough starter, and 10 grams salt. Stir well, then add 500 grams flour, 50 grams cocoa powder, and 50 grams sugar. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.
Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times, adding 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips during process, then cover. Repeat the above process four times, then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.
Sprinkle flour on counter or mat, then spread dough flat on floured surface. Fold dough from sides, then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.
Heat oven to 450º with uncovered Dutch oven inside. Using a sharp knife, score dough, then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 40 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205º. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving.
Photo by Wikimedia Commons
EASY-TO-GROW
Select One of the Many Perennial Species
SUBMITTED BY
KAREN CASPARY, VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR AND HORTICULTURIST, UT GARDENS, KNOXVILLE
THE BLANKETFLOWER is a dazzling little plant that is easy to grow, easy to combine, and easy to love. With its long flowering time, gorgeous coloring, and tolerance to summer heat, it’s a powerhouse sure to be a treasure all year long. There are about 25-30 species of Gaillardia, with most being native to North America. The common garden variety, Gaillardia x grandiflora, is a hybrid between Gaillardia pulchella, the southeastern blanketflower, and Gaillardia aristata, the prairie blanketflower. Gaillardia x grandifolia offers the best of both worlds: large flowers, a perennial habit, and a long bloom time.
Gaillardia x grandifolia is a relatively short-lived perennial with a mounding or sprawling habit. It reaches a height of 1-3 feet and can sprawl in clumps about 2-feet wide. It flowers best in full sun and prefers well-drained soils. Once established, it rarely needs water outside of extreme drought events. It can grow in heavier soils, but chances of winter survival are greatly diminished - planting in berms or containers can be utilized in clay-heavy areas. They have few pest problems, and deer and rabbits tend to avoid them.
The plant flowers in the late spring and does not stop until frost. Although the parent plants tend to fizzle out in 2-3 years, they are readily propagated from seed or division and self-sow easily. Seed-grown plants will generally bloom in their second year; plants purchased from the nursery are often ready to flower. Deadheading is not required, but it will encourage more and bigger blossoms and keep the plants tidier. Cutting back in midsummer can encourage root growth and an attractive shape for the latter half of the season. Take care when handling the
Gaillardia, also known as blanketflower, comes in a variety of species and performs well through the summer and fall in rock gardens, pollinator plots, or native plant collection
Photo courtesy of UTIA
HNovember in the Garden
BY LISA GRUGIN
OORAY FOR FALL! I’m so grateful for cooler temperatures. If you put off your fall gardening, let’s do a quick recap of what needs to be done:
1. Do your yard checkup. Our temperature variations can be hard on plants, and some of them are showing stress, making them more vulnerable to insects and disease.
☼ After the checkup comes the cleanup. Pull annuals, clean up perennials, pull weeds, and apply fresh mulch if needed. This will help prevent the reemergence of disease and insects next year. Consider mulching your leaves instead of bagging them. We run over ours with a lawnmower and then blow them onto flower beds. The chopped leaves work as both a mulch and a fertilizer and will provide winter protection for pollinator bees.
☼ You can still plant pansies, violas, snapdragons, and ornamental cabbage for fall and winter color. The pansies, violas, and cabbage will last until next spring, and snapdragons will go as cold as 25º. Several perennials are evergreen and will last through the winter in beds or containers.
☼ Clean and protect any containers that are not frost proof. If they’re for outdoor use year-round, get creative with your fall and winter plantings. Stop by if you need help.
☼ Planting trees and shrubs during this dormant season means that all the plant’s focus can go into developing roots. If you’re planting trees and shrubs, I cannot over-emphasize how important it is to do it correctly.
1. Dig a hole no deeper than the root ball but twice as wide. Make sure your language is appropriate if small children are in the area.
2. Mix the soil that you’re removing from the hole with topsoil or planting mix until it is about half and half. (Note: Do NOT use potting soil. Potting soil is for pots.) Use this to backfill around the plant. Some say that amendments are not needed, but to me this is only true if you’re planting in what would be their native soil. Rhododendrons, for example, grow in the mountains where it is shady and cool and thousands of years’ worth of leaf mold. Your building lot that was scraped clean of all topsoil does not work the same.
to the bottom of the hole or remove it entirely. If you don’t remove the wire cage and you ever need to have the stump ground, it will destroy a stump grinder.
4. Place your plant so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surface of the ground. Backfill with your soil mixture and firm it into place. It’s ok to have some room for air, but keep a little of the backfill mixture to add more to the hole if/when it settles.
5. Water the plants using a root stimulator to speed up the establishment of feeder roots. Water the plant throughout the winter if we’re not getting 1 " or more of rainfall per week. Some of you will have irrigation systems turned off, but please leave some way of watering newer plants if our winter happens to be dry. Soaker hoses or hand watering ensures adequate saturation.
6. Add mulch, but please don’t pile the mulch around the trunk of a tree. Mulch keeps the temperatu re and moisture levels stable and protects the trunk from lawn mower and weed
whacker damage. If mulch is heaped around the trunk, however, it causes air roots and insect/rodent damage. Next month I’ll talk about holiday plants and greenery and how to care for them. Since some of you may purchase your plants before then, here are a few words of advice:
☼ Whether you’re buying Christmas trees or poinsettias, buy from a reputable dealer! Mass market trees are frequently cut before Halloween, and most box/grocery store poinsettias are doomed due to lack of care knowledge.
☼ If you have questions about how to care for your plants, please ask us! That’s what we’re here for. With proper care, your tree should last until the New Year and your poinsettia should last until you get sick of it and throw it away. Neither are hard to care for, but both have some critical steps you must follow.
Stop by and see us for all your holiday needs!
Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center 9885 Highway 11E Lenoir City, TN 37772 865.986.7229
MeadowViewGreenhouse.com
3. Take the plant out of the container and loosen the root ball. Dig your fingers or a cultivator in and pull those roots loose! If the roots are going around the rim in a circle, take a saw and cut the outer 1/2" off the root ball. If the plant is balled and burlaped, push the burlap
New Exhibitions Opening
THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from November 1-30. 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.
A Dog, a Pig, and a Possum Walk into an Art Gallery in the Lower Gallery
This new exhibition features artwork by Beka Addison-Browder, John Hilton, Michelle O’Patick-Ollis, and Ralph Slatton. Their diverse array of artistic expressions includes intaglio, relief and screen printing, and drawing, which the four artists use to convey a shared fascination of animal imagery. Their creations are like mirrors, reflecting their lives, dilemmas, and journeys.
Ralph Slatton uses the process of intaglio to delve into the realms of humorous animals and sinister creatures, and John Hilton uses drawing media and woodcut processes to create fictitious human/animal hybrids. Both artists use veiled disguises to express profound messages about human identity and the human condition. Beka Addison-Browder and Michelle O’Patick-Ollis create imagery with a feminine touch, depicting flora and fauna. Addison-Browder draws inspiration from the flora and fauna of Appalachia and its heritage handicrafts, using screen and block printing processes on fabric in conjunction with various sewing skills. O’Patick-Ollis is inspired by online personality tests that pair individuals with an animal profile that resonates with their unique traits, and she uses printmaking and drawing processes to create imagery where animals symbolize the essence of their human counterparts.
John Edwin May: Judgmental INK in the Upper Gallery
John Edwin May has documented people with “ink,” creating beautiful portraits and photographs of their favorite tattoos. When exhibited, an outer quad of large monochromatic portraits is displayed with four smaller interior color images of tattoos. Viewers are encouraged to guess which tattoo belongs to the correct owner. May hopes that the process of making assumptions that sometimes prove incorrect will help us all to be more accepting of one another.
“Years ago, in the development of the project, the world was a calmer place,” he said. “Today, many people are on edge, and it seems we cannot discuss religion, politics, medical beliefs, and more without causing hurt or enticing anger.” His exhibition includes QR codes that link the viewer to which tattoo correctly matches with each portrait, and some will also include short, documented stories about the tattoos.
John Edwin May is a photographer located in Knoxville. May’s photographic work has been exhibited nationally and internationally.
Pastel Works by Allen Monsarrat in the Display Case
Allen Monsarrat’s first art profession was as a studio potter for 25 years, followed by careers in decorative wall finishes, faux painting, and mural projects. He then turned to fine art painting in oils, concentrating on photorealism - paintings intended to look like photographs.
Artist statement excerpts: I am drawn to representational art and enjoy the problem-solving required to depict various surfaces: stone, pastures, foliage, water, sky, etc. I started using soft pastels as a means of interpreting scenes, and my art has become more expressive. Pastel sticks, made of powdered pigment and binder much like a crayon, are clunky to use but achieve a range of effects.
Dennis Sabo: Aqua on the North Wall
Dennis Sabo, a Tellico Village resident, is an internationally award-winning photographer specializing in landscapes and seascapes. His painterly and emotionally charged photographs are reminiscent of legendary Impressionists while capturing light and its effects with a contemporary vibrancy and energy. Much of his nature photography is a microcosm, a photographic story that transcends geography.
Artist statement excerpts: For much of my photographic journey, I’ve been captivated by water. From the serene backyard creeks of Tennessee to the vibrant and exotic oceans around the world, water has always been my muse. In this selective exhibition, I invite viewers to immerse themselves in the feel, scent, colors, textures, and patterns of various waterscapes.
Greg Lach: Pixel Painting in the Atrium
Greg Lach was taught that all artists should be photographers and all photographers artists, an outlook reflected in his work today. Through his affiliation with the Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville, Lach has exhibited in numerous shows, fairs, and exhibitions across the country.
Lach continues his artistic growth by embracing digital photography and pixel painting. He combines traditional watercolor paintings with digital manipulation to create a unique image, inviting the viewer to wonder where the brush stroke ends and the photograph begins.
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 and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm. Please note, the Emporium will be closed WednesdayFriday, November 27-29, for the holidays. For more information, call 865-523-7543 or visit KnoxAlliance.com. Emporium
During the past decade The Retropolitan Craft Fair has grown from a fledgling local market into one of the premiere maker events in the Southeast. We’re proud to be part of Knoxville’s flourishing maker community and are grateful to our sponsors, vendors, and patrons for making this little dream of ours a reality.
MARKETING AT HUMAN SCALE
WIN
OTHER w�rd�
BY CHUCK MORRIS
HAT I N the world do we mean by “Marketing at Human Scale?” Or, drop the marketing part for now - what is “human scale?”
Human scale is a term typically used in architecture and interior design to describe the built environment’s purpose to meet human needs - often physical needs. If you’ve ever been to a restaurant where the table was higher than your chair or vice versa, you’ve got the idea. Human scale is “purpose-built” to “fit” how a typical human being might interact with a building, a piece of furniture, or a tool of some sort.
But it’s not just physical; it’s also emotional. Anyone remember those “fat” pencils they made us use in first grade when we were trying to learn to write? I didn’t like them. They didn’t feel right, and I thought my writing looked ugly when I used them, so that made me feel unsuccessful. Or maybe you’ve been in a city where all the buildings on a street just felt oppressive in scale, with concrete, steel, and glass looming over you, making you feel small. No doubt there have
been many times when you’ve felt it when something was off, though you may not have been able to put your finger on why. (See what I did there?)
Not surprisingly, marketing is very much the same. At our firm, when we say we do marketing at human scale, we mean that we build brand strategies and messaging for our clients that connect with their customers on a very human level - an emotional level. They resonate with people because they’re authentic and they “fit.” They fit because we’ve taken the time to listen and to truly understand who that customer is and what they need.
We all know intuitively that some basic human needs are to be seen, felt, and heard as an individual. When we feel like “just a number,” as in the mass marketing approaches of the past, we tend to tune out whatever a company is trying to say to us in their marketing.
In human scale, television and radio campaigns, social posts, web content, print media, and corresponding user interfaceseverything you can think of - is customized and “purpose-built” for the individual. This is what Philip Kotler (arguably the so-called “Father of Modern Marketing,” Kellogg School, Northwestern University) calls a “Segment of One” in his book Marketing 5.0 One-size-fits-all marketing campaigns
are no longer as effective because people are looking for brands to build an honest-to-goodness emotional connection with them. Marketers are expected to truly connect with their prospects on a uniquely human level and anticipate their needs often before they ask. It’s a tall order. Add artificial intelligence to the mix, plus the almost-impossible-to-keep-up acceleration of life in general, and you have a business problem that is very difficult for business owners to solve.
This is where we are today in marketing theory and practice. A large group of people defined by common demographics, and perhaps psychographics, can no longer be reached very effectively. This fragmentation started in the ’90s and has been splintering ever since, all the way to ONE. It’s expensive for marketers to reach individual humans in marketing, but the data shows that it is typically worth it in increased average transaction spend, loyalty, lifetime value, and general goodwill.
The fundamental principle is to ensure that your marketing has a bedrock of communication and understanding that resonates deeply: “I see you. I feel you. I hear you.”
So, how do you do #marketingathumanscale? Here are a few thoughts on what works in our experience.
1. Be human. As much as a brand can be, be real. True understanding, empathy, and tone in messaging all go a long way with today’s consumers, now five generations with very different preferences.
2. Be authentic. Obviously, consumers can smell when brands are trying to manipulate them. Don’t.
3. Be simple. In a world cluttered more than ever with marketing of all kinds in a multitude of channels, brands that make the buying process simple, that avoid jargon, and that tap into the elusive human craving for a sense of simple stillness (especially today) win. Remember the first ad you saw on television that had no sound?
4. Be a servant. Brands exist to serve human needs, but historically they have always tried to elevate themselves at their customers’ expense. Remember that your business only exists because someone - ONE - had a need that you could fill. Intellectual humility and servant leadership is very attractive. Yes, even for a brand.
With a bit of a mindset shift and some careful listening and research, brands can build authentic campaigns that connect at human scale. Try it and let me know how it goes.
Chuck Morris is a fractional CMO to several companies and also principal and founder of Morris, a marketing, branding, advertising, and digital media company headquartered in Knoxville. The company website is Morris.Agency.
