Everything Knoxville + November 2023 Edition

SEE OUR ARTICLE ON PAGE 12

NOVEMBER

EVERY THING KNOX VILLE | VOLUME 17 | ISSUE 10

11 Farm Bureau Insurance

Susan Cafferty

You don't have to be a farmer to be a member.

Publisher + Editor

12 Bill Jones Music

Brett Cafferty

Celebrating 50 years serving Knoxville and East Tennessee.

Marketing + Operations

15 PremierGarage

Editor + Administration

Kendra Menendez

Top 5 garage renovation tips to boost your home's value.

Meredith Hancock Design + Production

16 Auction Factory

Assisting both buyers and sellers with their innovative online marketplace.

Contact Information Post Office Box 24532 Knoxville, TN 37933 865.640.3015

30 Dogtopia

A guide to dog-safe Thanksgiving foods.

Reach us Online info@everythingknoxville.com EverythingKnoxville.com

33 Surface Doc

Inside or out, big or small, they can do it all.

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

Insights & Highlights................................26 Food and Recipes....................................40 Local Eats .................................................. 41 Calendar of Events.................................. 42 Knox Heritage........................................... 44 Travel...........................................................49

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Photo by Golightly Studios

NDY WOOD, part of this generation’s most influential guitarists, loves Knoxville, the Open Chord, and all things music.

With his Appalachian bluegrass roots and a GUITARMAGGEDON win under his belt, Andy’s playing is an eclectic mix of jazz, swing, fusion, and rock - just to name a few. He tours, teaches, and has a new album coming out this year - Charisma!

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

From the Publisher

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HE RISE of social media “influencers” has definitely made an impact. Whether you love checking in or bash it for its opinionated oversharing and attention seeking content, I get that. But lately I have been really drawn to those who tell a great story or share a skill or learning experience.

One middle school teacher with a storytelling gift plus a real heart for his past students - has become a good reminder to me that kids (and people in general) are just trying to figure out their world and how to live in it.

Another favorite is a former house cleaner who has the best tips on cleaning anything and everything - without hawking too many products. She now cleans houses for those in need - free of charge - awesome! There are those who give advice on refinishing furniture based on their own hits and misses, travel blogs that give “every man insider information” on many a destination, and don’t even get me started on all the incredibly creative projects Photo by Morgan Hayley Harper

4 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

that I know I will never get around to doing myself.

My point is to seek out and appreciate the positive information and knowledge of others - and to share your own. We all have a skill, interest, or wisdom that would benefit someone else. Interested in the latest novel? Start a book club - locally or remotely. Love to bake? Share yummies and recipes with neighbors. Love little ones?

Volunteer for your church nursery or to entertain kids while their parents go to the store.

In our feature this month, Randy Holmes opened the Open Chord Stage and Music Shop because he wanted to share his love of “all things music.” Whether you are motivated to turn your passion into a business or are content with just blessing your community, we all have something to share.

Here’s to appreciating the human experience and what we can all add to it.

Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor

Cover photo by Golightly Studios

SEE OUR ARTICLE ON PAGE 23

CHOPS. DEDICATION. CHARISMA. A Conversation with Andy Wood

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NDY WOOD has been a musician for a very long time. at work in 3 weeks, which turned into 6 weeks, then 6 months, His website bio reminds us that he finished in 2nd place etc. I was hanging out on Zoom with my buddies, doing panels and playing bluegrass at the World Championship Mandolin master classes and making guest appearances, but I would try to Contest when he only 16 years old. After learning electric guitar, write some simple melodies every night. It was unintentional, but Andy has since played professionally with the likes of Gary LeVox by the time Covid let up, I had over 50 demos and my next record.

I lost both my grandfather and my dad during that time, so that was (Rascal Flatts), Gary Allan, and Scott probably the hardest year of my life Stapp (Creed), just to name a few - all of that is infused in this record all while working on solo projects. also. There is a cover song reimagEverything Knoxville had the ined as an instrumental guitar tune, opportunity to talk to Andy at the the opening song has that cinematic Open Chord between gigs - the flair to it, and there is a song dediGary LeVox tour and upcoming cated to my dad and granddad. I also Suhr Guitar Workshops in Italy, to got some special guests to play on be exact - to find out more about the record like Joe Bonamassa and his music.

Brent Mason. This is album #5 for E K : Yo u r m u s i c a l j o u r n e y me, and I thought “Let’s have some began pretty early. Your grandfriends get involved!” So the record father taught you how to play? is really special and near and dear to Andy: I was born in western my heart.

North Carolina. When I was The album, called Charisma, will be about 5 or 6, my grandfather Eric Johnson and Andy Wood released before the end of the year. started teaching my cousin, We’ll probably launch with vinyl and Brian, and I how to play mandolin digital. Downloadable bundles will and fiddle - old-time bluegrass and Appalachian stuff. By the time we were 9 or 10, arcade video games were out, and my grandfa- include guitar transcriptions and a version that’s got my guitar ther would give us each $5 to spend at the arcade for every song muted so you can jam along. Check AndyWoodMusic.com for we learned. Our love of video games meant we learned A LOT of pre-order bonuses and those types of things.

EK: Your schedule is crazy busy right now. How do you mentally handle fiddle tunes!

Later, we both started playing electric guitar and stayed the course all the demands?

Andy: I saw a little reminder sign while traveling that said - Brian now plays with Travis Tritt, and I’ve got my solo career and “Everything that you’re in is what you wanted.” I needed to see that work with Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts.

EK: With your Appalachian background, what music influences you because it is a lot of work, and I would gladly play the guitar for free.

All the other things, that’s what gets me paid - the travel, the sleepthe most now?

Andy: Everything does! I still consider myself to be so much of a less nights, endless airports. The joy is playing for sure. Nothing is student and lover of music. I will always love bluegrass, especially the better than when you’re having a great gig and you’re clicking with “new grass” stuff. The one people probably don’t realize is how much the musicians and the audience is feeding you energy. It’s a very speinfluence I get from cinematic soundtracks, film scores, and things cial symbiotic type of thing.

Learn more about Andy Wood’s work with The Woodshed like that. I really, really love that stuff.

Guitar Experience in Crossville, his YouTube video lessons, and EK: Tell us more about the new album you have coming out.

Andy: Most of the tunes came about during the Covid pandemic. the local, good-time, party band he does with Ben Eller on his Like everyone else, I website AndyWoodMusic.com. We hope to see him again at the thought we’d be back Open Chord soon!

Photos by Golightly Studios and Open Chord/Ella Marston

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HE OPEN CHORD Stage and Music said. “A room with a great vibe that is Shop on Kingston Pike between Walker meant for the listening experience.”

The Open Chord Music Shop, located Springs and Gallaher View Road truly is All Things Music. The venue that owners Randy and in the same building as the Stage, is a Trish Holmes opened under its current name in great place to pick up new guitar strings, 2014 includes a performance stage with space for find the perfect guitar strap, or try out 200+ listeners, plus a stocked bar with appetizers some of the coolest pedals. Not only and entrees. There is also a full-service music store are they the largest Taylor Guitar dealer offering a great selection of “all things stringed” in our area, but the Music Shop is a full-service music store offering a great and everything you need to go along with it.

As West Knoxville’s premier listening room and selection of all things stringed - electric music venue, the Open Chord Stage proudly hosts and acoustic guitars from Taylor, Gibson, live music every Wednesday through Saturday nights, Epiphone, and Suhr, in addition to electric basses, ukuleles, opening at 6 pm and closing at midnight. Worldbanjos, mandolins, class musicians and singers from and more. around the globe set an eclecThe Music Shop tic lineup, plus the OC Stage staff are also musiholds an Open Mic Night where cians, so they can up-and-coming locals can try out help answer your the tunes they have been practicquestions, direct you ing to an enthusiastic audience. ner, and towards the best Their venue attracts touring Randy Holmes, Ow er e Manag accessories, and even bands playing blues, rock, folk, Dillon Bunn, Venu assist with restringing. soul, and more for everyone’s Whether you are looking listening enjoyment. Couple that with a full bar that specializes in signature cocktails, for a chord book, capo, picks, cables, amp craft beer, and a yummy food menu, and you are set tubes, new strings, or a repair, the Open Chord Music Shop, open Monday through Saturday for a great night with like-minded friends.

A tried and true music enthusiast, Randy strives from 10 am to 7 pm, has it.

Andy Wood calls the Open Chord to make their venue a place where professional musicians and music lovers can come together. He “Knoxville’s best kept secret - because some cherishes the fact that his daughter, Allie, manages really exceptional acts come through here.”

Check their website or social media the kitchen and bar. Teamed with venue manager, Dillon, the Open Chord provides an overall great Instagram and Facebook - for the upcoming shows. Whether you are looking for a spenight out.

Acoustically, the sound of the Open Chord is sec- cial gift for the musician, student, or music ond to none. Premier guitarist Andy Wood loves lover in your life, knowledgeable recomplaying at the Open Chord, as it reminds him of mendations for gear and accessories, or some of the New York clubs that he’s been in. “It’s just a great place to meet friends and enjoy small enough to feel a closeness between a live show at the best listening room in Knoxville, the artist and audience,” he the Open Chord is All Things Music!

Open Chord Stage and Music Shop 8502/8426 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919 865.281.5874 OpenChordMusic.com OpenChordMusicShop.com

Choosing a Business Leader Peer Advisory Group

BY K U RT G R E E N E , V I S TA G E WORLDWIDE, INC. MASTER CHAIR

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S T U DY by St anford Universit y found that many CEOs struggle with isolation. While two-thirds of CEOs studied don’t receive outside leadership advice, 100% of respondents said they’d be open to making changes based on advice and feedback if they did.

Let’s explore three common mistakes that business leaders make when selecting a council of peers for perspective and support.

Mistake #1: Settling for a “comfortable” group environment.

Strong peer groups view vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness. A good peer group knows how to make the uncomfortable comfortable and the undiscussable discussable.

Recommendation: Will the peer group help you confront your assumptions and blind spots? If they don’t challenge you, then it won’t change you.

If you want to go fast, go alone.

If you want to go far, go together.

- African proverb Mistake #2: Assuming that a true peer group must be peer led.

High-performing peer groups are facilitated by a “smart guide” who not only has business experience and expertise, but also takes personal and passionate ownership for unlocking group and individual potential. Smart guides are experts at asking the right questions and have a fearless commitment to creating a learning environment that works for busy leaders.

Recommendation: Make sure the peer group has a smart guide. Does the guide have visible passion, experience, a servant-leader mindset, and know how to keep things fun?

Mistake #3: Downplaying the power of a structured, proven process.

Effective peer groups follow discussion rules that ensure great decisions. If no process or discipline is in place, then discussions can devolve into a free-for-all where the input is influenced mostly by the stronger personalities in the room.

Recommendation: Evaluate the peer group’s methodology. Look for a highly strategic and structured approach that delivers a way forward.

Who you surround yourself with matters.

Avoid these mistakes to find a safe and confidential council of contemporaries that can be your personal laboratory for professional and personal growth. Trusted peer groups are the best solution for the tremendous responsibilities and solitary challenges that men and women at the top face.

For more information, please contact Kurt at kurt.greene@vistagechair.com or 865-407-0703.

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EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

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ENJOY INSTANT, ENDLESS HOT SHOWERS

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W Want It Personalized?

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Whether you need wedding party favors, family reunion giveaways, milestone celebration gifts, or a special friendship keepsake, Make It Yours can make it happen!

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Personalized Puzzles, Caps, Jewelry, Mugs, Boards, Announcements, T-shirts, and so much more!

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10 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

HILE IT MAY be difficult now to think about the chillier weather ahead, we’re just months away from winter. Think for a moment about that hot shower you had hoped to enjoy last January or February that was suddenly interrupted when your hot water turned warm, then tepid, and finally cold.

The problem is your water heater. Conventional water heaters only heat a limited supply of water.

Once exhausted, it could easily take an hour or more to reheat a new supply of hot water.

Here’s something else to consider. All of that unused water that goes down the drain while you wait for your water to heat up is costing you money. In fact, for every $100 in water you waste needlessly, your water utility charges you an additional $300 in sewage fees. That’s $400 down the drain.

The solution is a tankless, on-demand water heater that not only provides an instant and unlimited supply of hot water, but only heats the water required. Conventional water heaters heat, and then continue to reheat, hot water.

And with as much as 30% of your home’s energy budget going toward your water heater, tankless, on-demand water heaters just make good sense - and good cents.

Welcomed cooler months are just ahead, but so is that unexpected cold shower. One call to My Professional Plumber can ensure that you’ll have an unlimited supply of hot water this winter, not to mention a much needed decrease in energy consumption, all while reducing both your monthly water and sewer bills, with your home’s new tankless, on-demand water heater.

Call Jamie today!

My Professional Plumber 6220 Western Avenue Knoxville, TN 37921 865.609.6080 MyPlumberTN.com

REMEMBER: You Don’t Have to Be a Farmer!

BY D A N A P U M A R I E G A , A G E N C Y M A N A G E R

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ARM BUREAU Insurance has been selling property and casualty policies in Tennessee since 1948. It began out of necessity - farming was a more dangerous occupation than it is now, and many insurance companies were unwilling to insure farm structures. Actual farmers, working through the Tennessee Farm Bureau, launched their own insurance company, and it wasn’t long before their friends and neighbors wanted to take advantage of Farm Bureau’s insurance program.

After graduating from Carson Newman, I began my insurance career 24 years ago at the Farragut Farm Bureau office. I became an agency manager and opened my own office in Hardin Valley in 2012. I truly love my community and want to offer the best insurance for my friends and Knoxville neighbors. I was drawn to Farm Bureau because of their comprehensive customer service - with us, you are not just a “policy holder” but a name, a face, and a family.

Every four years, we pro-actively contact each and every client for a review to make sure you and your family are completely covered, up to date, and protected. We also offer The First Mile young driver discount, where newly licensed teen drivers can earn up to a 10% discount on auto insurance. With more than 350 Farm Bureau claim professionals dedicated to prompt and caring service for those who have sustained a loss, we have you covered during the good times and the trying times.

And you no longer need to be a farmer to get Farm Bureau Insurance! Becoming a member of the Tennessee Farm Bureau is inexpensive (only $30 per family) and has many advantages in addition to top quality insurance programs.

Members enjoy discounts on a wide array of goods and services, have access to health and safety programs, and receive an award-winning membership magazine four times a year.

With an office in every county, we now insure more homes and automobiles than any other insurer in Tennessee. And as the nation’s largest state Farm Bureau organization, we insure one in four people here in Tennessee - that’s more than 680,000 member families!

We would love the opportunity to explain our membership benefits and coverage. Give us a call to find out why so many Tennesseans trust us for their insurance needs.

Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance 10851 Hardin Valley Road Knoxville, TN 37932 865.247.6517 fbiTN.com November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

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Bill Jones Music Celebrates 50 Years in Serving Knoxville & East Tennessee

BY B I L L J O N E S

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IFTY YEARS AGO, I was a 23 year old who was wondering if my new business would last for even a year. To come up with the little capital we could, my wife, Marjorie, and I sold our house and one of our cars. I rode a bicycle to our first store. From those humble beginnings as solely a piano and organ store 50 years ago, Bill Jones Music on West Kingston Pike has evolved into one of the largest music stores in East Tennessee with a thriving music school and piano delivery business.

Throughout the years, our economy has had a lot of ups and downs, and while some years were good, others were pretty difficult. It seemed like every time the economy took a downturn, Marjorie was pregnant.

Must have been a lot of downturns, since we ended up having eight children - who all play some type of instrument!

We have always kept up with the times and our customers’ needs. Here are just a few of the changes that would have been impossible to predict 50 years ago: • Digital pianos, as the word “digital” wasn’t even in my vocabulary!

• Player pianos have gone from a pump sucking air through holes in a paper roll to digital player pianos with internet access to more than 30 channels of music types.

• Our home organ business that initially comprised half of our sales is now defunct.

• Music lessons for more than 350 students are available right here at the store, plus our amazing homeschool choir.

• Our music teachers have advanced degrees in voice, harp, guitar, drums, violin, and cello.

• How many people still love and cherish having a piano in their home!

For us personally, the biggest change occurred after our children grew up and left our home, because that is when Marjorie became an active part of the business and established our music school. Now, in addition to having our eight children (and 24 grandchildren), she has precious students who take lessons here every week. From babies in the Music Together program, to kids in the homeschool choir, to senior citizens taking private lessons, and everything in-between, Marjorie has built an incredible comprehensive program. It just amazes me

every time I walk though our school.

Since I am now 74, people frequently ask, “When are you going to retire?” I asked my wife that question, and now I have the answer: “NEVER!” Marjorie genuinely loves the families who come here weekly and says there’s no way she would ever want to leave them without their music, so for the foreseeable future, it’s still full speed ahead!

Bill Jones Music 10412 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37922 865.690.6465 BillJonesMusic.com

TRANSFORM YOUR HOME WITH QUALITY WINDOW REPLACEMENTS

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H E N I T CO M E S to enhancing the beauty, comfort, and energy efficiency of your home, few investments yield as significant results as replacing your windows. They let in natural light, provide ventilation, and frame your view of the world. However, over time, the wear and tear of the seasons can take their toll, leading to drafts, decreased energy efficiency, and diminished curb appeal. That’s where Window Depot Knoxville comes in - to rejuvenate your home with the finest window replacement solutions available.

Chuck Dale, owner of Window Depot Knoxville, understands that windows are not merely functional components of your home; they are your connection with the outside world. With more than 30 years in the residential building industry, Chuck believes in delivering only the highest quality products and craftsmanship. He and his knowledgeable project managers, Johnny Patterson and Sam Kornegay, will work closely with you to understand your specific needs, style preferences, and budget constraints.

Not only do they partner with renowned window manufacturers known for their innovation and durability, their extensive range of window options caters to every style and budget, from classic designs to modern aesthetics. Whether you seek the timeless elegance of wooden windows, the low-maintenance ease of vinyl, or the energy efficiency of triple-pane glass, they have the perfect solution for you. Window Depot Knoxville is there to provide expert guidance and communication every step of the way, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your window replacement project.

12 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

Window Depot Knoxville takes pride in their work, ensuring precise measurements, meticulous installation, and a seamless finish.

They know that the success of any home improvement project lies in the details, and that’s why they never compromise on worksmanship standards. They understand that it is not just the quality of the replacement windows that is important, but also the quality of the overall installation.

Window Depot Knoxville also offers home exterior composite cladding and replacement doors along with their wide selection of windows, so stop by their showroom in Farragut to meet the team and see their quality brands. With Window Depot Knoxville, you can trust that your investment will stand the test of time, keeping your home comfortable and beautiful for years to come.

Window Depot Knoxville 10810 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37934 865.776.1734 | WindowDepotKnoxville.com

Boost Your Home Value and Preserve Your Assets:

TOP 5 GARAGE RENOVATION TIPS

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NDERTAKING A GARAGE renovation project can be a rewarding endeavor that not only adds value to your home, but also ensures the preservation of your vehicles and stored items. To make this journey less daunting and more successful, these top five garage renovation tips focus on increasing your home’s value and safeguarding your valuable assets.

1. Elevate Your Home’s Value: Transforming your garage through a custom storage renovation isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s an investment that enhances your property’s value.

From durable coatings to a sleek organizational system and stylish cabinetry, your garage gains an appealing, elegant, and functional edge.

2. Protect Your Precious Vehicles: Instead of exposing your vehicles, bikes, or scooters to harsh weather conditions outside, provide them with the protection they deserve by parking them inside your revamped garage. Not only does this keep them secure, but it also extends their longevity. Your prized possessions are shielded from the elements.

3. Embrace the Power of Change: Change isn’t just refreshing; it’s an opportunity to enhance your garage’s functionality. Consider adding cabinets for extra storage or dedicating space for a small workshop. Whether it’s optimizing storage or creating a versatile workspace, embracing change in your garage can greatly benefit you and your family, adding newfound convenience to your daily life.

4. Revive and Renew: A garage that’s seen better days with worn floors, cracked concrete, and unsightly stains can be revitalized. PremierGarage offers garage floor renovations with quick-curing, highly durable epoxy floor coatings. Say goodbye to the signs of wear and tear and hello to a fresh, clean, and resilient garage floor.

5. Support Your Active Lifestyle: If your family leads a busy life filled with sports and outdoor activities, your garage can be your ally. Install unique storage racks and cabinets to efficiently store all your gear and equipment. Say goodbye to clutter and chaos and hello to a well-organized space that complements your active lifestyle. Your garage becomes a hub for adventure and convenience.

A garage renovation project is an investment in your home’s value and the preservation of your vehicles and belongings. By following these renovation tips, you’ll ensure a successful project that not only enhances your home’s worth, but also provides a versatile and organized space for your hobbies and storage needs. Remember, careful planning, organization, and adaptability are the keys to a successful garage renovation that benefits your property and your lifestyle.

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EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

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Producing Auction Perfection C OMPETITIVE BIDDING at auction has been an exciting and opportunistic way to purchase goods since 500 BC. With 30 years of experience, Auction Factory provides an innovative online marketplace that has gained significant attention in the e-commerce industry. Sarah Wright and Tony Simpson at the new Auction Factory location here in East Tennessee are committed to aiding buyers and sellers by perfecting a marketplace for them to connect.

AuctionFactory.com provides a userfriendly and intuitive platform that streamlines the auction process, making it accessible for people across the country to bid.

“For each auction, we carefully curate sellers items and verify buyers, offering a secure platform for conducting transactions from the comfort or your home,” explains Sarah. “Auction Factory is not your standard auction company - we bring unique and quality products to our warehouse. We want you to be happy with our selection and only offer new or like-new equipment.

From commercial restaurant equipment and

16 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

electronics to arcade games, jewelry, and furniture, the marketplace caters to a broad range of buyers. We strive to help you make informed buying decisions by providing detailed item descriptions, photographs, condition, and pricing data.”

Auction Factory provides: • Monthly auctions with a variety of items • Dedicated customer support team • Professional assistance on Preview and Pickup days • “Wish List” and “Text Reminder” options • Fast transactions • Shipping, pickup & delivery options For sellers, Auction Factory can minimize the financial impact of closing a business.

With utmost efficiency and speed, they handle the entire process of converting tangible assets into cash, preserving the dignity of the business you worked so hard to grow.

By working solely on a commission basis, their team is dedicated to maximizing every dollar for you.

To enhance the buyer’s experience and make auction participation as seamless and rewarding as possible, Tony adds, “We use an online platform that levels the playing

field through a process of staggered ending. Time is added when a new bid is placed. Bidders must refresh the page to be sure they did not get outbid, especially in the last 30 seconds. Another benefit of online auctions is that if you cannot bid live on the night of the auction, you can use the website’s Max Bid feature to ensure you get your favorite items at a price you’re comfortable paying.”

Let Auction Factory assist you in finding exactly what you are looking for or selling your goods at a fair market value.

Their online auctions offer a dynamic and efficient platform for buying and selling a wide range of goods that can help jumpstart a new venture, update the old equipment, or turn assets into cash for a business. With the excitement of competitive bidding, an intuitive platform, and 5-star customer service, Sarah and Tony are confident that you will enjoy your experience with Auction Factory.

Auction Factory 865.393.2380 AuctionFactory.com

The Gift of Family History Made Easy

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LEETWOOD PHOTO + The Print Refinery has the skill and know-how to turn your old photos and home movies into a usable digital format that can be easily viewed and shared with others. The real bonus is that they are able to perform this service locally with no shipping of personal items to other destinations. Your family memorabilia stays right here in Knoxville during the entire digital transformation process.

Frank and Doris Distefano, Fleetwood owners and daily operators, have assembled an amazing staff of printers, designers, framers, and archivists. The core of Fleetwood’s staff has more than 130 years of experience in their field. And as a prominent business on Bearden Hill since 1985, you have the peace of mind and security offered by more than 35 years in their professional industry.

They know how best to prepare your items for archiving and offer consultations along with helpful suggestions. Whether scanning photos and documents or transferring videotapes, audiotapes, slides, 8mm and 16mm films, it will be done right, with the care and consideration your family archive deserves.

With the holiday season upon us, are you interested in a unique way to keep company entertained? Would it be nice to give the personalized gift of priceless family heritage?

Let Fleetwood help relieve some of your holiday stress by transforming your family legacy from a dusty solitary archive into living, viewable media. Imagine being able to share your digitized history creation with all your family members, whether they are in your home, across town, or across the world - and all with the ease of watching a Netflix movie, on all devices, wherever they are.

Digitizing memorabilia is just one of the many services that Fleetwood the Print Refinery has to offer. See their website or visit their convenient Bearden Hill location for additional gift giving ideas. They want to be your resource for reprints, custom framing, holiday cards, personalized invitations, and more. Give yourself the gift of solutions from Fleetwood the Print Refinery.

Fleetwood Photo/The Print Refinery

December 3rd • 5:00 to 7:00 pm Tree Lighting at 6:30 pm Free Event • Food Trucks • Family Friendly Activities

J

OIN THE Hardin Valley Business & Communit y Alliance for the inaugural Light Up the Valley celebration!

This event will be held at the Valley Church building site on Hardin Valley Road across from Pellissippi campus. Check HVBCA.org or the Hardin Valley Business & Community Alliance Facebook page for more information.

6504 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919 865.584.4554 FleetwoodPhoto.com November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

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BY K A R E N C O P P O C K

AVE YOU ever seen a service dog and wondered how it goes from being a wiggly puppy to a focused assistant? A visit to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs (SMSD) provides a fascinating look at this process. Certified by Assistance Dogs International, SMSD is a local nonprofit that serves wounded veterans and first responders by providing custom-trained mobility assistance dogs - at no cost!

What do the dogs learn at SMSD? Besides learning basic commands like sit and place, they are trained to not pull at their leashes. They learn to walk calmly beside their companions, helping veterans who might have balance issues. Other tasks include bringing things to their companion or picking up dropped items like a debit card or a wallet - all without chewing it. They also provide emotional support and devoted companionship to the veterans.

Using an intensive screening process, SMSD staff selects puppies that have the best characteristics for learning necessary skills. These puppies are donated or purchased from reputable breeders. To have enough trainable dogs to match with eligible veterans, SMSD needs help raising puppies from about eight weeks old to a year old. Through the generosity of sponsors and donors, SMSD provides all the food, veterinary care, training, and miscellaneous expenses Trainer Laura for the puppy.

Porter & Silas “Our greatest need right now is for puppy raisers,” said Debra Sciarretta, SMSD’s Puppy Raiser Coordinator. “Puppy raisers are needed to help with general house manners and then all kinds of exposures.”

What responsibilities do the puppy raisers have? All the usual things you would teach a puppy, such as household training, not biting, and leashed walking. A weekly training class helps reinforce learning and teach them new skills. If needed, puppy transportation volunteers are also available to take the puppies to and from training classes.

SMSD

Gary and Silas

SMSD Performance Assessment River (front), Wylie (back left), & Silas (back right) When these dogs are placed with their veterans, they’ll need to be comfortable being around people, especially in public spaces (where allowed). According to Heather Wilkerson, SMSD Canine Program Manager, the puppies need “environmental and social exposures that are age appropriate… guided by our trainers. We have handbooks and all kinds of visual aids that help them [puppy raisers]. We are very hands-on, so they will receive a ton of support not only from As most people do, a love for animals has forever been in my heart. Hearing about Smoky Mountain Service Dogs just simply sounded right for me and fell instantly in place in my life. All of their trainers and volunteers are extremely dedicated to the development of service dogs for veterans and first responders with service-connected physical disabilities.

As a puppy raiser, you work closely with the trainers to develop and raise a young puppy from eight weeks to approximately one year of age. The puppy then continues through an involved period of training, emerging as a dedicated service dog to a recipient.

The year-long journey is challenging, lovable, and rewarding. The experience you have is a spoke in the generous wheel of giving that SMSD provides.

My first puppy will soon be leaving me to continue on his journey of becoming a Smoky Mountain Service Dog, but I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of my next adventure in puppy raising.

- SGT Gary Kaplan, USMC

18 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

“Our greatest need right now is for puppy raisers,” said Debra Sciarretta, SMSD’s Puppy Raiser Coordinator.

“Puppy raisers are needed to help with general house manners and then all kinds of exposures.” our training staff, but also through the other volunteer roles.”

Carla Navas, SMSD Volunteer Director, noted that “Smoky Mountain has a little over 200 volunteers and only five paid staff.”

Many of those volunteers serve in weekend respite care or transportation, so they still need volunteers to be puppy raisers. Some volunteers co-raise a puppy, which provides for some flexibility.

Do the dogs enjoy training? They seem to have a great time, especially when reward treats are involved! “They love the trainers, they love the environment, they get very amped up just to be here,” said Debra.

“They love to work!”

“Everything that these dogs do is a game,” added Laura Porter, SMSD Staff Trainer. “It is a play session, and it is fun.” The trainers use the games to teach the dogs how to do more complicated actions. “[Service Dog Silas] playing tug directly translates to him pulling a door shut, pulling someone’s socks off, pulling a basket,” she said.

“And so we can take the skills that he knows as a game and then apply it to different, more practical scenarios as a

HOW YOU CAN HELP • Monetary Donations See website for Donor Sponsorship Program information • Become a Puppy Raiser All food, veterinary care, training, and expenses are provided • Weekend Care for Dogs in Training Transportation is provided • Purchase Cowboy’s Dream

by Haylee Schweibel

service dog.”

After fostering, the dogs move into SMSD’s Lenoir City facility to complete their education with professional dog trainers.

However, opportunities to help don’t end there: SMSD needs weekend care for the kennel dogs. “They get dropped off (at our facility) on Monday morning by the volunteer, and then they’re picked up by another volunteer on that Friday afternoon,” said Debra. “It gives the dogs a nice mental break from the training.”

Once training is complete, Andee Raker, Wylie, they are matched with a vet& Ginger Stone eran. More than 64 dogs have been matched with veterans since SMSD was founded in 2010.

SMSD needs to have about 25 dogs in the system at all stages of training to be able to maintain that pace. “What drives that is, ‘Do I have the puppy raisers?’” said Heather. “I haven’t been able to bring puppies in because we haven’t had the puppy raisers to raise them.”

Is it hard to give up the dog? The puppy raisers agreed that part was tough but worthwhile. Puppy co-raiser Ginger Stone said it helps knowing upfront that you’re raising them “to help somebody else. They’re born for greatness, and we’re just paying it forward from the time they’re cute little babies till they grow up and be the strong dog that’s going to change someone’s life.”

For more information on volunteering to be a puppy raiser or other opportunities, please contact Smoky Mountain Service Dogs at SmokyMountainServiceDogs.org.

Cowboy’s Big Dream: Volunteer puppy raiser Haylee Schweibel wrote and illustrated this touching book about Cowboy, a SMSD dog who now serves his veteran, Paul Miles. Haylee enjoyed raising a SMSD puppy with her family and has since volunteered six more times. “It’s not easy to give them up, but I know it’s for a greater good,” she said.

Haylee is pictured with her current service dog River. All proceeds from Cowboy’s Big Dream help support SMSD, and it can be found online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The book makes a wonderful gift!

“I would like to thank the Kyle family and Smoky Mountain Service Dogs for Cowboy; he has been a godsend. Cowboy assists me with my mobility and picking up and retrieving items. He is my constant companion and is always by my side to provide me emotional support.”

- MSgt. Paul Miles, USMC Ret.

• Get a SMSD License Plate by local artist Robert Tino • Link Your Kroger Rewards Card

Haylee Schweibel & River November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

19

EUROPEAN

FINE HARDWOOD FLOORS DUSTLESS REFINISHING – NEW FLOORING INSTALLATION – STAINING - RESTORATION AND REPAIR

“I had originally considered getting new hardwood floors in our 40 year old home but I didn’t see anything I liked as well as what we had. I called European Fine Hardwoods to get an estimate and was very impressed with them. I especially liked the idea of the dustless Bona System they use. The finished results were amazing! Our experience working with them was top notch and the builder of our home said the floors looked even better than when they were new. They are the best! “ - Sharon Anderson, Briarcliff

GENUINE DUST-FREE FINISHING

Durable, water-based, and environmentally friendly low VOC finishes Dustless and safe refinishing for your home, using our Bona truck-mounted containment system Family owned and operated, celebrating 10 years serving Knoxville area clients Superior craftsmanship by licensed and insured Bona-certified craftsman

KnoxvilleHardwoodRefinishing.com | EuropeanHardwoodFloors@yahoo.com | 865-640-3680

Celebrating Gains

BY J E S S I C A H O WA R D

W

ELCOME TO THE Ross the Boss Salons company banquet: an annual celebration for achieving no, crushing - existing goals and making new ones! All year long our stylists are offered tools and opportunities to help them reach personal and record-breaking totals, and each month they climb higher and higher past the limits they set for themselves. So, the time has come to recognize the past year’s hard work and dedication.

Stylists from Center Park

Emory Road staff Our company banquet is a chance for all our salons to come together in one place to fellowship.

We laugh, tell stories, we laugh, share ideas, more laughing, and simply lift one another up. This time together allows the staff “Rookie of the Year” the opportunity to get to winner Isabella know others outside of Steele and Ross their own “salon homes.”

This year we recognized an incredible number of stylists and staff who went above and beyond their goals in the salon. Ross gifted everyone with company swag and gave generous gifts to those who worked so hard to achieve new heights in their career.

“This is an incredible group of people!” said Ross. “It’s inspiring to see them continually growing in skill and love. Many willingly donate themselves to charities we support, and each salon represents a real unified and supportive community. It’s really exciting!”

Thank you to each of our clients who continuously support our stylists and front desk staff.

Without you we wouldn’t be where we are today!

Ross the Boss Salons Forest Park • Oak Ridge • Fountain City Powell • Center Park • Emory Road Maryville • Morristown RosstheBoss.com November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

21

CREATING YOUR

Travis Cullman, CFP®, CPFA Senior Vice President, SageSpring Investment Professional, RJFS

FAMILY LEGACY

I

N THE busyness of everyday life, it’s easy to forget we’re never promised tomorrow!

As unsavory a thought as it may be, have you planned for your own mortality? Questions may be coming to mind: How will my assets pass on to the next generation? Who will oversee my estate? Do I want my finances to become public record? Who will look after my surviving spouse, and will he/she be ok?.

According to a recent survey, the majority of Americans believe in the importance of an estate plan, but only 33% of American families actually have a plan in place1. Similar to health and wellness, the problem here is not awareness, but action! Resist the urge to procrastinate and put off to tomorrow what can be started today! Now, more than ever, we need to ensure our wishes, desires, and values are passed on to those we care about in the most orderly, loving way possible. If you’re unsure where or how to get started, please give us a call at 865-686-5208.

cnbc.com/2022/04/11/67percent-of-americans-have-no-estate-plan-heres-how-to-get-started-on-one.html raymondjames.com/commentary-and-insights/family-life-events/2021/07/16/the-building-blocks-of-a-family-legacy-plan-infographic

1

The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Travis Cullman and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Legacy plans should focus on the here and now - how you have structured your life to demonstrate your values. That’s why we encourage you to take steps today to help preserve what matters most. Explore a spectrum of strategies available to help you organize your efforts as you live out your family legacy.

P: 865.686.5202 F: 865.622.9579 Travis.Cullman@sagespring.com | sagespring.com 136 Concord Rd, Knoxville, TN 37934

STEWARDSHIP. TEAMWORK. FAMILY. You Invest In Your Future. We invest in you.

Investment advisory services offered through SageSpring Wealth Partners, an independent registered investment adviser. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. SageSpring Wealth Partners is not a registered broker dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Representatives may not be registered to offer securities and advisory services in all states. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (wish plaque design) and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

22 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

Get Creative with a Professionally Designed Pantry

BY C A R R I E M C C O N K E Y, C A R R I E M C C O N K E Y.C O M

D

O YOU LOVE

to cook? Then chances are you know the value of a pantry. Pantries have served households since Medieval times, offering cool, dr y storage for non-perishable foods.

Modern-day pantries contain appliances, ser ving supplies, and overstock items, making the pantry the perfect partner when it comes to enjoying a delicious meal.

If you’re looking to upgrade your pantry experience, think outside the box and consider these creative design ideas.

Make Your Pantry Accessible The open, airy pantry (pictured) began as an enclosed reach-in closet. By removing the door and façade, easy access was achieved instantly. Newly-exposed storage space became even more functional by adding open shelving and a countertop, and pull-out drawers bring a multitude of items within reach.

Convert a Closet Although pantries are traditionally located in or near the kitchen, yours doesn’t have to be. Transform a nearby closet or utility room into your dream walk-in pantry. Customize slim spaces for TV trays, wire bins for chips and other evening snacks, and shallow drawers to hold flatware and table linens.

Create a Cubby Whether tucked under the stairs or curated in a corner, bonus pantry storage can free up your kitchen. Wine, cookbooks, and other culinary companions can be stored on perfectly-proportioned shelves, and LED lighting can help you find just what you need for the next delectable meal. No matter where in the house your extra pantry space might be, a variety of finishes, handles, and drawer pulls will blend seamlessly with your interior decor.

If cooking for yourself and others is your favorite way to relax, indulge yourself by creating a new pantry space. Not sure where to start? Call your local storage professionals at Closets by McKenry.

With decades of experience and quality materials made in East Tennessee, they will help you design a one-of-a-kind pantry. And you can get back to practicing your passion… good cooking!

Closets by McKenry 201 Center Park Drive, #1070 Knoxville, TN 37922 865.249.6382 ClosetsByMcKenry.com

November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

23

INSIGHTS

&

HIGHLIGHTS

THE TREE AND VINE

MORE NOUVEAU CLASSICS

Award-winning Extra Virgin Olive Oils from the Mediterranean that have been judged “The World’s Best” in international competitions and a Traditional Balsamic from Italy aged 18 years in Chestnut, Juniper, Hickory, and Oak casks. Drizzle on aged cheese, cured meats, and fresh fruit or use as a pure salad dressing.

Available at The Tree and Vine, 439 Union Avenue in Knoxville, 865.985.0524, TheTreeAndVine.com.

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.

FLEETWOOD PHOTO

RIVER SPORTS OUTFITTERS

Bundle up warm 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.

26 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

From custom framing services to hand-crafted, fine Italian Galassi frames in 8x10, 5x7, and 4x6, our customers have access to an incredible selection of frames. Milestones and memories are our specialty. Stop by to choose the perfect frame for you! Available at Fleetwood Photo, 6504 Kingston Pike in Knoxville, 865.584.4554, FleetwoodPhoto.com.

KELLYCO DETECTORS

Nokta’s The LEGEND multi-frequency metal detector is loaded with features: advanced depth detection, submersible, lightweight, and long battery life. Locally owned and operated, Kellyco has been a leader in metal detectors since 1955.

Available at KellycoDetectors.com. Look for their new showroom opening in early 2024.

MAKE IT YOURS

DECORATING DEN INTERIORS

This vase pair has an asymmetrical curvature and unique placement of the handle. The dark brown glaze drips artistically from the top and is made of terracotta. These brown and beige vases read like a sculpture when there are no flowers blooming in it.

Available at Decorating Den Interiors | Kozar Design Team, 521 Lovell Road, Suite 205 in Knoxville, 865.392.6222, SandyKozar.DecoratingDen.com.

20-ounce insulated travel mug that can be personalized for you. Ideal for fall outings and makes a great holiday gift.

Available at Make It Yours, 10541 Kingston Pike, Suite A in Knoxville, 865.444.6253, MakeItYoursNow.com.

PASSION ON PAPER

If you love books and puzzles, we have the perfect combination. These puzzles are colorful and fun for the whole family! Available at Passion on Paper, 259 N. Peters Road in Knoxville, 865.531.9886, PassionOnPaper.com.

November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

27

Elevate Your Holiday Season with a Custom Pantry: The Secret Ingredient to Stress-Free Celebrations

A

S T H E H O L I DAY s e a s o n r a p i d l y approaches, the familiar whirlwind of hosting, cooking, and baking comes into full swing. It’s a time of joy, celebration, and culinary feats!

To ensure your kitchen is up to the task and your preparations go off without a hitch, consider the role of custom pantries in modern households. Gone are the days of cramped inefficiency: Today’s pantries are a testament to innovation and versatility, designed to cater to unique needs. Join us as we delve into the ways a custom pantry can be your unsung hero of this holiday season!

Five “Food for Thought” Considerations Designing an efficient custom pantry involves several considerations: 1. Outward-Swinging Doors: To maximize storage space, ensure the door swings outward. This prevents the door from impeding access and compromising storage capacity.

2. Electrical Outlets: Install electrical outlets just above the pantry counter. This allows for the use of small appliances like coffee makers or toasters within the space. It’s a forward-thinking approach, as it accommodates potential future needs without retrofitting challenges.

3. Adjustable and Deep Shelving: Customize the height of your shelves to accommodate various-sized food products and small appliances. Incorporate deeper shelving to store larger appliances such as toaster ovens, slow cookers, or mixers. This not only keeps appliances easily accessible, but also frees up valuable kitchen space.

4. Functional Lighting: Good lighting is essential for a functional pantry. While it doesn’t need to be extravagant, it should be practical. Adequate lighting ensures that you can see and access items - even those at the back.

5. Specialized Storage Components: Consider your specific pantry needs. Would slide-out baskets for snacks be useful? How about vertical slotted spaces for storing baking pans and serving platters? Or perhaps scoop-front drawers? Depending on your space, these features offer convenience and help keep items organized and easily visible.

When it comes to designing your pantry, The Tailored Closet emphasizes customizing it to your lifestyle. Our team of designers engage with homeowners to understand your specific needs.

Questions include what items besides food you intend to store, whether you entertain frequently, your preferred design style, and whether you desire a countertop. Other considerations include the inclusion of drawers, pullout baskets, slide-out spice and wine racks, and customizations based on pantry size. Our pantries suit your unique needs, whether it’s a walk-in space or a reach-in pantry, bringing order to your kitchen chaos.

The Tailored Closet 865.777.0306 TailoredClosetKnoxville.com

A Moment of Kindness and a Recurring Smile

O

NE OF THE most impor tant aspects of vo l u nte e r i n g at Random Acts of Flowers is volunteers get to spend their time doing something that can give a complete stranger and deser ving communit y member a smile and an emotional boost during their difficult healthcare journey.

This not only occurs when the volunteer delivers the Random Ac t s of Flower s’ cre ate d bouquet to an individual in a healthcare facility, but, in addition, during the next several days, every time the recipient looks at the flowers, they happily recall the personal moment of kindness that the flowers represent and have another emotional boost knowing someone cares for them. This recalled and recurring happiness not only positively impacts the recipient, but their family, friends, and caregivers!

One of our recipient’s family members said: “What a sweet surprise! My husband came home from a radiation treatment last week with these beautiful flowers. He was so tickled and had a wonderful smile on his face. It was truly appreciated! Thank you for taking flowers and reusing them. They are

28 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

still beautiful on our counter!”

It is these moments of kindness, encouragement, and emotional support that propels and sustains our volunteers to work so hard and so happily - collecting and preparing donated flowers; creating the individual bouquets; and delivering the re-purposed, upcycled bouquets to healthcare facilities. It is an effort that makes all of those involved in the process smile. Whether they are preparing the flowers, creating an arrangement, delivering a bouquet, or are the recipient or recipient’s family and friends, everyone gets a recurring emotional boost from the simple act of providing someone in a local healthcare facility with recycled flowers, encouragement, and a moment of kindness.

We believe here at Random Acts of Flowers the results of any kindness and positive energy we contribute to our community makes it a better place for us all. If you want to support Random Acts of Flowers and help us make an impact and have your own recurring smile, please consider being a recurring donor. You can make a recurring donation on our website at RAFKnoxville.org, or call us at 865-633-9082 or email Ally@RAFKnoxville.org.

DOG-SAFE

Thanksgiving Foods

A

Our facility comes with spacious, supervised playrooms where dogs are placed according to their size, temperament, and play style to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for your beloved pet.

5213 Homberg Drive | Knoxville, TN 37919

865.622.2599 Dogtopia.com/Bearden-Knoxville

Our Customers Say It Best.

“From start to finish, Slamdot demonstrated exceptional professionalism, creativity, and expertise that far exceeded my expectations.”

- Lucy Esch

Master Massage & Spa

(865) 238-5600 Sweet, affordable websites that work.

Read many more stories at www.slamdot.com 30 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

S THANKSGIVING approaches, the anticipation of a sumptuous feast grows. While it’s tempting to share holiday cuisine with your furry family members, it’s important to remember that not all Thanksgiving foods are safe for dogs. Here’s a guide to dog-safe Thanksgiving foods.

Turkey: The star of the Thanksgiving table and, fortunately, a safe option for dogs. Remove the bones, skin, and excess fat and avoid any seasoning or spices, as these may upset their stomach.

Sweet Potatoes: A nutritious, dog-friendly option, as they are rich in vitamins and fiber. Simply bake or mash plain sweet potatoes without adding butter, sugar, or spices. A small amount can be a delicious meal addition.

Ma s h e d Pot ato e s : Enjoy them plain and in moderation - free of butter, garlic, onions, and seasoning.

The extra fat and dairy in mashed potatoes can be hard on some dogs’ stomachs, so be quantity cautious.

Green Beans: An excellent source of fiber and vitamins, they are a healthy, low-calorie snack that dogs typically enjoy. Serve them steamed or boiled without any seasonings.

Pumpkin: Plain canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) is full of fiber for digestion. A small spoonful can be mixed into food or offered as a treat.

Cranberries: Safe in small amounts. Fresh or dried cranberries can be used as a low-calorie treat. Ensure they are free of added sugars or sweeteners.

Carrots: Another dog-friendly vegetable and a great source of vitamins and fiber. Serve cooked or raw as a crunchy snack.

Foods to Avoid: Certain Thanksgiving foods are harmful to dogs and should be kept far from their reach. These include onions, garlic, grapes/raisins, chocolate, nuts, and anything seasoned with spices, herbs, or high in fat.

Moderation is key - even safe foods should be given in small portions as an occasional treat.

Overindulging can lead to digestive upset.

Prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being during the holiday season, and you’ll both have a reason to be thankful.

Does your pup need a place to play and stay this holiday season? Enroll them at Dogtopia, where we offer award-winning daycare, overnight boarding, and spa services.

Dogtopia of Bearden-Knoxville 5213 Homberg Drive Knoxville, TN 37919 865.622.2599 Dogtopia.com/Bearden-Knoxville

DESIGNER Contemporary Furniture & Interior Design

Nouveau Classics Contemporary Furniture & Interior Design And now, MORE Nouveau Classics

101 S Gay St Knoxville

310 W. Jackson Ave. Knoxville

865.525.4755 www.nouveauclassics.com

By Appointment Only

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits Are you leaving money on the table?

Find out with our Social Security Analysis.

Regularly $79 Now Only: For a Limited Time

59

$

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR ANALYSIS!

865.622.2162 | clientservice@marshwealth.com 504 Ebenezer Road • Knoxville, TN 37923 • MarshWealth.com

MARKET SQUARE DOWNTOWN Wednesdays 10 am - 1 pm thru 15th Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm thru 18th

Holiday MARKETS

MARKET SQ. DOWNTOWN Saturdays 10 am - 2 pm 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 12/23 HISTORIC OAK RIDGE Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm 11/25, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16

EBENEZER ROAD Ebenezer United Methodist Church 1001 Ebenezer Road, 37923 Tuesdays 2 pm - 5 pm thru 21st HISTORIC OAK RIDGE Jackson Square 209 Jackson Square, 37830 Saturdays 8 am - Noon thru 18th THE PRESERVE TOWN CENTER 201 Broadberry Avenue, 37830 4th Wednesday of each month 9 am - 1 pm thru 22nd

RAIN OR SHINE! 32 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

Your Biggest Asset in Retirement?

Social Security

BY Y VO N N E M A R S H , C F P ® , C PA

E

V E R S I N C E the rules changed several years ago, eliminating the “file and suspend” maximizing strategies that married couples could use, I feel like Social Security strategies have fallen by the wayside and it doesn’t get the attention it still deserves.

For a couple living to typical life expectancies, it can easily provide over $1 million in cash flow during retirement.

When to take Social Security is one of the biggest decisions pre-retirees face. Should they take it as soon as they retire? Or should they let it continue to grow while using their assets for income? What about spousal benefits? Ex-spousal benefits? Survivor’s benefits?

Every person and every couple has a unique, best strategy, which is why we use software to help us come up with that answer.

Here are a few tips: For married couples, think through BOTH spouse’s lifetimes, because the surviving spouse gets to keep the greater of the two checks. A typical strategy is to have the person with the higher SS benefit defer their benefit, allowing it to grow while the other spouse starts claiming their benefit. Remember that for every year you wait past your Full Retirement Age (FRA is typically 66 to 66½), your benefit increases at a guaranteed 8%. Waiting for four years, from 66 to 70, will result in a 32% larger benefit!

An important caveat: If you work past age 70, don’t wait to start your SS. It won’t grow any further, and at that point, you’re just letting the government keep your benefit.

Divorced? If you were married for more than 10 years and have not remarried, you can be entitled to an ex-spousal benefit. Unless you’re at least your FRA, this benefit is not very big and subject to restrictions.

Widowed? You are the only people left who STILL have the option to claim a survivor’s benefit while letting your own continue to grow at that guaranteed rate before switching over.

(See why I have software for this?) I worked with two widows recently who didn’t know this and were leaving money on the table.

Curious how to maximize your benefit? Just provide us your Social Security earnings statement, and we’ll prepare an analysis for only $79. Mention this article and we’ll offer you a discounted price of only $59 through the end of this month.

Marsh Wealth Management, LLC Fiduciary Registered Investment Advisor 504 Ebenezer Road, Knoxville, TN 37923 865.622.2162 MarshWealth.com

Financial Planning & Investment Advisory Services are offered through Marsh Wealth Management, LLC (“MWM”), an independent investment advisor registered with the state of Tennessee. Yvonne Marsh is an Investment Advisor Representative of MWM in the state of Tennessee. Marsh Professional Group, LLC is a TN registered public accounting firm and a separate legal entity from MWM. For a detailed discussion of MWM and their investment advisory fees, see the firm’s Form ADV on file with the SEC at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.

Inside or Out: Give Us a Shout!

Big or Small: We Do It All!

T

HIS LENGTHY TITLE (that could also be a fun cheer!) encompasses ALL that Surface Doc does. When they started out, Surface Doc was a “tile and grout” cleaning company that also did carpet.

But more than a decade later, they specialize in so many other surfaces that it makes for a lengthy title!

Almost everyone around Knoxville knows that Surface Doc is the best at cleaning tile and grout, but surprisingly, they still have clients that don’t know that one of their most in-demand services is exterior natural stone (bluestone, flagstone, slate, etc.).

They also do all sorts of carpet cleaning, from steam extraction to Roto-vac restoration - both with eco-friendly cleaners.

For their clients who want to go the extra mile, Surface Doc can also Scotchgard™ your carpet. They continue to resurrect many carpets while saving their clients from costly replacements.

But back to the “out” exterior services.

What began as mostly driveways and walkways expanded quickly to docks, pool

decks, and composite decking. As word got around about how good Surface Doc is at exterior surfaces, they began to get numerous requests for soft washing and vertical surfaces as well. So they invested in equipment to safely soft wash houses and roofs made of sensitive and exotic material: cedar shakes and shingles, stucco, vinyl, and brick.

For roofs, they can tackle asphalt shingles, slate, clay, and even metal. Once your outdoor surfaces are clean, many areas can be

JOHN FITZWILLIAM

sealed to protect it for years from the abuse of Mother Nature.

Why is their soft-washing so effective?

Surface Doc has been fortunate enough to partner with the manufacturers of a top-quality soft wash solution. And since the product they use also contains a commercial-grade rinse aid, when Surface Doc does an exterior soft wash, you also get the added benefit of clean windows! Their cleaning technicians go the extra mile to treat your property with care to ensure nothing gets damaged.

With the holidays upon us, there’s no doubt that you are sprucing up your home for your relatives and friends. Surface Doc is the one call that does it all; inside or out, give them a SHOUT! Their professional team will show up and help you tackle your most daunting tasks. Call them today and have a cleaner tomorrow!

Surface Doc

865.567.1986 SurfaceDoc.com

Not Just Clean, But Sanitized. decks

WE CLEAN AND SEAL: Tile & Grout • Concrete • Natural Stone • Carpet Wood & Composite Decking • Travertine • Slate Marble • Granite • Bricks • Linoleum

LIFE IS BETTER LIVED CLEAN

tile & grout Our state-of-the-art process restores your floors to a like-new appearance

• 100% Customer Satisfaction • Fast and Affordable Service • Licensed and Insured

865.567.1986 • www.SurfaceDoc.com Call for a FREE, no obligation demonstration

Our process surgically removes the dirt, grime, oil and bacteria

SERVING THE GREATER KNOXVILLE AREA | COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL | MONTHLY / QUARTERLY PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

33

Upgrade Your Garage, and Leave the Guilt Behind

BY C A R R I E M C C O N K E Y, C A R R I E M C C O N K E Y.C O M

D

ON’T WORRY… we all have it. The less-than-tidy area in our garage, detached garage, or unfinished basement where the “part-time possessions” reside.

• The items that we know will come in handy… someday.

• Yard tools and equipment that are necessary but not needed on a regular basis.

• Seasonal decorations that need a home during their off-season months.

When we enter this zone, we do so with caution. Navigating boxes and other odd-shaped items, we try not to trip as we search for what we need. Upon finding it (hopefully), we rush out, feeling a pang of guilt as we close the door and leave the chaos behind. We promise ourselves that we’ll get to the mess. But the timing never seems right…

The Reality of Clutter What we don’t realize is that entering a cluttered garage for 10 minutes each day adds up to more than 60 hours over the course of one year! What was once valuable square footage in our homes is now a source of stress. The good news: It doesn’t have to be.

Get Organized… Beautifully When it comes to your part-time possessions, you’ll breathe easier with professionally designed storage.

Custom Cabinets: Install streamlined cabinetry to hold everything - and hide everything - from heirloom holiday decorations to your trusty coolers and tailgating supplies.

Practical Slatwall: Hang your hard-working garden implements and get bikes, beach equipment, and power tools out of the way and off of the floor.

Durable Epoxy Polyaspartic Flooring: Seal and protect your concrete floor with an attractive heat and chemical-resistant epoxy polyaspartic floor.

Still feel overwhelmed? Your local professionals at Designer Garages are ready to help. Call, click, or come by their West Knoxville showroom to see organization in action. When you schedule a free consultation, you’ll get a glimpse of your functional and beautiful space with a realistic 3-D rendering.

With cabinetry, slatwall, and epoxy polyaspartic floors available in a multitude of finishes and colors, you can give your part time possessions a home and take back your garage, detached garage, and unfinished basement in style.

Designer Garages

34 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

201 Center Park Drive, #1070 Knoxville, TN 37922 865.268.4868 DesignerGarages.com

THE MOODY BLUES’

JOHN LODGE

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

T

H E M O O DY B L U E S . A n awesome band a) who has been in existence for almost 60 years; b) whose career has spanned seven decades; and c) whose remaining band members, John Lodge and Justin Hayward, are still performing and recording great, new, relevant music.

For music loving baby boomers (as well as succeeding generations who love the music of the baby boomer era), The Moody Blues has provided music that firmly embedded itself into the soundtrack of our youth and is still enjoyed today. Songs like “Tuesday Afternoon,” “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band),” and, of course, “Nights in White Satin” are still instantly recognizable - not only musically, but with their “universal themes of love, compassion, and peace.”

In 2017, The Moody Blues’ monumental album, Days of Future Passed (which came out an astonishing 55 years ago last year), was marked by 50th anniversary tours and special appearances. And in 2018, the band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

This year, band co-founder and bassist John Lodge has released (via his website, JohnLodge.com) his own version of the iconic Days of Future Passed album entitled Days of Future Passed - My Sojourn. The album was recorded during live shows with his 10,000 Light Years Band and is amazing in its musicianship and performance. The album includes a special recording by late band member, drummer Graeme Edge, and amazing performances by Jon Davison of the band Yes, who continues with the band on tour.

From his home in England, John spoke with me about the new live album and his continuing tour.

“November 2023 will be the 56th anniversary of Days of Future Passed,” said John.

“It’s incredible to look back on this album that changed my life and that still has so much impact today on so many, and I felt that it deserved celebrating.

“And so, on the album, I’ll put in there, if you love this album, perhaps it may take you back to the original album, hearing the vocals and Mike (Pinder) and Ray (Thomas) and Justin (Hayward) and myself on the original album. So, I was really linking the new album to the older album and linking it so the audience will. Some people will

36 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

Photo by Frank Piercy

come along and have no idea what Days of Future Passed is. Nobody - I could see it on their faces. But they’ve come and they’re still there at the end of the night. And that’s the most important thing. The reaction, I have to say, has been phenomenal. And I thank the fans, and the audience goes on not saying they’re all fans coming to see the show - but an audience, and I really thank them for their enthusiasm. And it’s fantastic I have to say.”

During our chat, I also asked him if he’s seeing a much younger crowd on the tour or if the shows are full of baby boomers.

“There are a lot of new listeners that come to the concerts because, you know, it is a rock and roll show after all. You know, that’s what I’m trying to do - but a rock and roll ala The Moody Blues. So, it’s not heavy metal, it’s The Moody Blues. But it’s still got the energy and excitement. And that’s what I’m trying to do with the concerts - put the

energies together and the excitement.

“My band is totally into my and The Moody Blues music. They are totally committed, and it’s beautiful.

“They want to be pitch perfect and play the music so they’re really excited about what they’ve done. I congratulate them every night, and we’ve got a great camaraderie.”

As for what is on John’s radar in the coming months, he shared, “The reception and the reaction from the audience and the fans has been more than I could ever have hoped for.

I’m planning to come to America in February and March next year on another tour. So, I’m planning that at the moment but also trying to see if there’s a space somewhere to do more concerts in December.”

He then said with a wry smile, “Have bass, will travel.”

There is a lot more to this conversation, including Luciano Pavarotti’s advice that John has taken to heart and what a studio cat may have added to the original Moody Blues album. Watch or listen to the interview in its entirety by visiting Boomerocity.com, YouTube @boomerocity, or the audio on any of the major podcast platforms.

You can also order Days of Future Passed - My Sojourn by visiting Shop.JohnLodge.com.

Randy’s first interview was at the tender age of 13 with none other than Col. Tom Parker.

Thirty-six years later, he founded the webzine, Boomerocity.com, and has conducted more than 400 interviews with some of the most interesting people in music.

Are You Built for the Long Run?

BY D R . J I M B A I L E Y

O

N THE afternoon severe storms came through our community last month, I surveyed the mess it left as I drove to an appointment. The damage was severe and heart breaking. Mature trees were missing limbs, some were broken in half, and many were uprooted. One large impressive oak tree fell near my home, revealing that it had no roots and was rotting from the inside. It looked substantial but was missing the things that would allow it to survive the storm.

The storm damage reminded me of two books I had read about building resilience into our lives and those of our children. The authors cited research on prominent ideas in our culture and questioned whether they help us weather life’s storms. Thankfully, they also provide strategies to help us (and our kids) become more resilient.

The first book is Antifragile, and the author, Nassim Nicholas Talib, investigates problems of randomness and uncertainty. In Antifragile, he notes that some systems (he includes human beings in the category) become better or stronger because of difficulties and crises.

These systems may have fragile parts, but they develop strategies for protecting themselves from random dramatic stresses that occur, becoming anti-fragile.

38 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

Reading the book, I thought of the beachside live oaks I’d seen on Hilton Head Island, SC. Unlike their inland cousins, these trees are shorter and bent away from the prevailing winds to better protect themselves from random storms. Biologists tell us these trees develop tighter, tougher wood fibers on their windward sides and broader root systems to better hold the soil. If they lose leaves (their most fragile parts) to high winds, they regenerate new growth more quickly than other species. As they age and endure more storms, the stress and pressures make them better, not worse.

In their book The Coddling of the American Mind, authors Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff say that rather than helping us become antifragile, our resilience is being undermined by three flawed ideas that are now widespread in our culture. The three are 1) that we are (actually) fragile and, therefore, need protection from life’s difficulties; 2) that you can always trust your feelings to give you the right answer; and 3) that life is a battle between good or noble people and evil or despicable people. The authors conclude that embracing these ideas make us each more fragile, more susceptible to the pitfalls of emotional reasoning, and predisposed to using an “us versus them” defensive mindset

that ignores the nuance and complexity of people and devalues their humanity.

Our challenge is knowing when and how much to protect ourselves and our children from ideas, people, interactions, and experiences that feel uncomfortable and how much to allow them (and ourselves) to experience difficult situations and people. The authors of the two books convincingly argue that our cultural obsession with comfort has morphed into a mindset of self-protection that isolates us from situations and people who make us feel uncomfortable. It’s the next step, however, that causes real harm.

Rather than viewing uncomfortable interactions and experiences as a normal part of life, we have come to a place where we don’t just seek to avoid these but mentally categorize them as abnormal and even evil.

Our children also need to learn how to handle adversity and failure and develop a self-image that withstands the difficult situations and people they’ll encounter.

For example, both of my own children experienced being bullied in middle school - my daughter was on the receiving end of unkind statements of her female classmates (middle school girls can have wickedly sharp teeth), and my son (a self-professed “band geek”) endured physical bullying by larger, stronger boys. In addition to helping them develop self-defense strategies (our son took tae-kwon-do to develop self-confidence), we taught them the fundamental truth that those same bullies weren’t evil but, rather, children struggling (albeit poorly) to figure out their own identities. We also taught them that we are never fully aware of the reasons people act as they do and that every person carries potential for beauty and horror within them.

We need to be clear about what we want for our kids and ourselves.

The truth is, we don’t simply want our kids and ourselves to be safe (ideologically, emotionally, and mentally). We want our children (and ourselves) to be strong enough to handle life’s storms, and that’s different than being safe. Giving our kids opportunities to develop emotional strength, mental reasoning skills, and a shrewd-but-generous understanding of people equips them to handle life’s difficult situations and people. We want to foster emotional strength, endurance, understanding, and the ability to make wise decisions in our children, rather than facilitating fragility and dependency. But we can’t give our children what we don’t personally possess.

People don’t set out to make themselves or their kids fragile; it happens because we don’t understand what makes us better equipped to handle life. I’m always eager to help if you have questions about how you can do this in your own life.

Local Makes the Difference

F

LEENOR SECURITY IS owned and operated right here in East Tennessee.

We take pride in keeping our community secure, which is why we are proud to own and operate our very own UL Listed Central Station. Unlike many other security companies, we do not outsource our monitoring to mega stations that handle thousands of accounts from numerous security providers. Instead, we believe it is essential to have our dispatchers trained, managed, and employed directly by Fleenor Security Systems.

What is a Central Station?

A Central Station is an alarm monitoring center that services burglar, fire, and panic alarms for residential and commercial alarm systems.

All monitored alarms are connected to an alarm monitoring center where dispatchers are staffed around the clock. If a monitored alarm is triggered, a signal is sent to a monitoring center where the operator can dispatch help to the property, effectively keeping your home or business safe and secure.

Why a Local Central Station Matters There are several reasons why we believe local makes a difference, but here are the top seven reasons why a local Central Station increases your security.

1. There is always a live operator to answer incoming calls, 24 hours a day, meaning no annoying voicemail when you call directly.

2. Fleenor Security is able to handpick top-quality team members who care about our customers.

3. Our customers are our own. We know you, and you know us.

4. Our dispatchers are aware of local events like severe weather and power outages, which will keep you better informed.

5. Our customers have direct contact with the service department, ensuring all needs or questions get handled.

6. There is no need to make a second call if an after-hours technician is needed. We handle it for you.

7. Strong local businesses are an integral part of a healthy community, and supporting local businesses plays a significant role in promoting the health of East Tennessee!

Local means we’re different. Keeping our community safe and secure is our top priority at Fleenor Security Systems. Therefore, we take pride in owning and operating our very own local Central Station. It ensures we are always ready when it counts, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Fleenor Security 10446 Cogdill Road Knoxville, TN 37934 865.544.9964 FleenorSecurity.com TN C-0239 VA 11-1901 NC 1721-CSA

The 55th Annual

Nativity Pageant of Knoxville Saturday, December 9, at 3 pm Sunday, December 10, at 3 pm Monday, December 11, at 7 pm KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM

Free Event • Live Animals • 200+ Cast • Full Choir with Orchestra KnoxvilleNativity.com for details.

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4 Crowd-Pleasing Tips Every Host Should Know C O U RT E S Y O F F F E

I

F YOU’RE a home chef, you know how fun and fulfilling it is to host friends and family. However, entertaining a large group can also be challenging and a bit stressful.

To help you elevate your entertaining prowess, Nick Ritchie Signature Kitchen Suite’s executive chef - has offered the following delicious recipe and four tips for entertaining that every home chef should know.

1. Prepare multipurpose batches of food Chef Ritchie suggests cooking multipurpose batches of food like pesto, hummus, ratatouille, caponata, and baba ganoush, which pair well with grilled chicken, fish, and meat. You can prepare and store a sizable batch of recipes up to a week ahead.

Check out the addicting parmesan dip recipe below, courtesy of Chef Ritchie, that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can serve it as a topping for fresh bread, crostini, or bruschetta, toss it with pasta, spoon it over fresh sliced tomatoes, add to a salad, dollop it on steak or chicken breast, and use it as a pizza base. The possibilities are endless!

2. Sous vide to save time Don’t let the fancy name fool you. The sous vide cooking method, which has been used by world-renowned chefs for years, is just as easy for home cooks. “Sous vide” (pronounced “sue-veed”) is French for “under vacuum,” and it’s an innovative cooking technique known for achieving the perfect temperature every time. Food is vacuum sealed, then submerged in water and slow-cooked at a constant precise temperature until it is perfectly cooked.

Sous vide has become the go-to method in the world’s best restaurants for years and for good reason. It brings food to the precise temperature chefs look for and delivers perfect doneness, edge-to-edge, every time with little effort.

Let’s say you’ve prepared a bone-in ribeye using the sous vide method. As you cut into your steak, you’ll notice something right away. The doneness you were hoping for goes all the way through your steak, without that gray-to-pink gradient and thin band of desired doneness that you get when simply grilling steaks.

Even better, you can use sous vide to do a “reverse sear.” Sous vide will ensure your steak is cooked to the desired temperature.

Then, you can put it on the hot grill for that tasty, smoky char only outdoor cooking can give you.

Baby back ribs are another popular staple that can be prepared using the sous vide method. With the perfect fall-off-the-bone doneness from the sous vide, a nice smokey finish from the grill, and a brush of barbecue sauce, you’ll have all-day ribs without the all-day work.

3. Embrace technology Technology is your friend here, so use it! Cooking and kitchen appliances can help you save time, elevate your cooking, and simplify preparing and storing dishes for entertaining and everyday cooking. To make recipes shine, Ritchie advises at-home chefs to upgrade the tools and equipment - especially appliances and other

40 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

must-haves they use every day. He recommends today’s ultra-versatile appliances, like those from Signature Kitchen Suite, which feature multiple modalities - from steam and gas to induction and even industry-first sous vide built right into the cooktop - to deliver elevated creations and make your cooking experience easier and more successful, day after day.

Learn more about these and other options to enhance your home cooking at SignatureKitchenSuite.com.

4. Take it easy on yourself Keep it simple. Serve your dishes buffet or family style on platters for an easier setup and cleanup.

If you plan to dine outdoors, pick up rustic or picnic-style butcher paper as a disposable tablecloth. Opt for eco-friendly, compostable plates and utensils that are attractive so you can skip washing dishes after your guests have gone home.

Impress your guests and enjoy your dinner party or get-together that those in attendance won’t soon forget. Using these four tips, you’ll be ready to host any event this season and beyond.

CHEF RITCHIE'S PARMESAN DIP Prep time: 10-15 minutes Yield: 2.5 cups Ingredients: • 8 ounces Parmesan cheese, broken into 1-inch chunks • 8 ounces Asiago cheese, broken into 1-inch chunks • 1 tablespoon chopped garlic • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley • 2 tablespoons chopped basil • 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions • Tablespoon pepper flakes • 1-1/2 cups extra-virgin olive oil Directions: Place the cheese chunks in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse for about 10 seconds to break the cheese into small granules.

(Use a rubber spatula to scrape down and recombine between every couple of pulses.)

Add the remaining ingredients except olive oil and pulse briefly.

Using a spatula, remove all to a mixing bowl. Fold the olive oil into the blended ingredients and mix well by hand.

Transfer the dip to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Just the Jazz B I S T R O BY T H E T R A C K S BY R I L E Y W O O DY

W

HEN I TOLD people I was going to Bistro by the Tracks, they asked about the location on Northshore, so it’s best to clarify right out of the gate that they recently moved to N. Central Street - and that it’s easy to miss their understated storefront. I didn’t know they were there until a friend suggested I try them out.

But don’t be deceived by the exterior’s simplicity of plate glass and gray trim; the interior is as glamorous as they come. The dining room is split into two spaces: one with high tables and a bar, the other with standard tables and an “open” kitchen where you can watch the chef work his magic, buffered by only floorto-ceiling glass walls. The ceiling, too, draws the eye in the most elegant way. Spotlights mounted along the original hardwood support beams and flickering candles shed soft light on every table; the intimacy created is that of a private meal in a friend’s home.

I accidentally - but fortunately - picked the night of their weekly jazz trio performance (Wednesdays at 7 pm). Some regulars trickled in for dinner, and even more just for drinks,

but they had undeniably all come for the jazz. Each patron greeted the musicians like old friends.

The bartender was fabulous, from greeting both her regulars and the newbies like family, to maintaining the bar and herself with appropriate finesse, to mixing an incredible cocktail. One sip of the Pear Tree, with vodka as its base, and I settled in for an evening of relaxation. Complemented by elderflower liqueur and lemon, this cocktail was the perfect balance between vibrant and soothing.

The last ingredient, aromatic bitters, is typically used to cut the acidity of a mix and smooth out the domineering tendencies of hard liquors. Instead of being struck by the amount of top shelf in my glass, I was mesmerized by the palate-cleansing effect of the bitters, the freshness of the lemon, and the comfort of the elderflower. The artistry of the mix was stunning - a miraculous flavor combination. As an aid to digestion, it’s also a great starting drink.

Of course, I also ordered food. The

summer squash soup was delicious, and while I felt the garnish of cantaloupe slightly detracted from the silkiness of the curry-style puree, the pesto put just the right amount of savory into a sweet first course. My favorite part of the main course was the duck confit, perfectly seasoned and wrapped in an al dente piece of housemade pasta - fabulous!

Ultimately, it was the patrons - moseying in and out to converse at the bar, warmly greeting the musicians, and sipping unarguably exquisite craft cocktails - that kept me seated for two hours. They were there for the jazz, and next time, I will be, too.

Weeknights are good for walk-ins, but on the weekends, it’s basically like “tetris,” so be sure to reserve a table at BistroByTheTracks.com.

Riley Woody is a University of Tennessee graduate, Knoxville native and avid foodie ready for any adventure with her pen and palate in tow.

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NOVEMBER THROUGHOUT THE MONTH In Conversation: Will Wilson at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture through December 2nd.

NOVEMBER 10 FILM FEST KNOX at Regal Riviera Stadium in downtown Knoxville through the 12th.

Veterans Day Parade in downtown Knoxville beginning at the Civic Coliseum at 10:45 am.

Terra Madre Women in Clay Pottery Show & Sale at St. George Greek Orthodox Church (4070 Kingston Pike) from 5 to 8 pm.

Also the 11th from 10 am to 4 pm.

UT Opera presents The Medium and Sour Angelica at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Also the 11th at 2:30 & 7:30 pm and the 12th at 2:30 pm.

The Old Friends Acoustic Tour starring Ben Rector at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

Also the 11th.

Christmas Fair at the Knoxville Expo Center through the 12th.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra presents Bax Plays Rachmaninoff at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 17th at 7:30 pm.

Lil Wayne at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:30 pm.

Paul Thorn at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

NOVEMBER 17 Christmas in Chilhowee at Chilhowee Park Bandstand from 6 to 9 pm.

Ice Bears vs Evansville Thunderbolts Military Night & Teddy Bear Toss at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Pam Tillis at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

NOVEMBER 18

Christmas Marketplace at Historic Ramsey House from 10 am to 4 pm.

Holiday Handcrafters Festival at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend from 10 am to 4 pm.

UT Vols vs. Georgia Bulldogs at Neyland Stadium.

Mini Baskets Class at Historic Ramsey House from 10 am to 2 pm.

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.

Star Gazing: Autumn Edition at Marble Springs State Historic Site from 7 to 11 pm.

NOVEMBER 12

NOVEMBER 19

Old City Market on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm.

Snowbirds: Winter Migrants to Tennessee and Their Life Histories at Marble Springs State Historic Site at 2 pm.

The Retropolitan Craft Fair Holiday Market at The Mill & Mine from 11 am to 6 pm.

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

Peppa Pig: Sing-Along Party at the Tennessee Theatre at 2 pm.

Knox County Public Library’s Downtown Walking Tour begins at Lawson McGhee Library from 2 to 3:30 pm. Learn more about Knoxville’s founding families.

Newsboys: Let the Music Speak Tour at the Civic Auditorium at 6 pm.

Andrew Ripp at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

NOVEMBER 11

NOVEMBER 13 Great Turkey Hunt at Farragut Parks and Ralph McGill Plaza. Take a photo, get a prize and an entry for a gift basket giveaway.

For details visit FarragutParksandRec.org/Turkey.

Through the 18th.

Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Fall Concert at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm.

Graham Nash at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

NOVEMBER 14 Foraged Wreath Making at the Knoxville Botanical Gardens from 6 to 8 pm.

3rd Annual Morning Pointe Foundation: Seniors Got Talent at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

NOVEMBER 15 Mia x Ally at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

NOVEMBER 16 Turnpike Troubadours at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.

Willy Wonka the Musical at Concord Christian School at 7 pm.

Also the 17th at 7 pm and 18th at 2 & 7 pm.

NOVEMBER 20 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. 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.

NOVEMBER 21 Knoxville Jazz Orchestra with Braden Jones at The Emporium at 7 pm.

NOVEMBER 22 Fantasy of Trees at the Convention Center from 9 am to 9 pm. Also the 23rd-26th. A benefit for East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.

Ice Bears vs Peoria Rivermen Dino Night Races at the Civic Coliseum at 6 pm.

For Knoxv ille Farme ’s Marke rs’ t and loc dates ations, see pa ge 32.

A Christmas Carol at the Clarence Brown Theatre. See ClarenceBrownTheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

Shows run through December 21.

NOVEMBER 23 Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 5K & Little Gobbler 1-Mile Kids Run at The Mill & Mine. Little Gobbler Run at 8 am, 5K at 8:30 am. A benefit for Variety East Tennessee.

NOVEMBER 24 18th Annual East Tennessee Regional Student Art Exhibition at Knoxville Museum of Art through January 7th.

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 Macon Mayhem Corgi Races at the Civic Coliseum at 6 pm.

Knoxville’s Holidays on Ice ice skating rink in Market Square through January 2nd.

Elf on the Shelf® Scavenger Hunt and Peppermint Trail in downtown Knoxville through January 7th. DowntownKnoxville.org for more information.

KISS: End of the Road World Tour at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:30 pm.

NOVEMBER 25 UT Vols vs. Vanderbilt Commodores at Neyland Stadium.

Old City Market’s Small Business Saturday on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm.

NOVEMBER 26 Keyboards at Christmas at the Civic Auditorium at 2:30 pm.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra presents Classical Christmas: Handel’s Messiah at the Tennessee Theatre at 2:30 pm.

Light Up Lakeshore at Lakeshore Park from 3 to 7 pm. Enjoy holiday market vendors, food trucks, children’s activities, lighting of the tree and more. Admission is free!

NOVEMBER 28 Knoxville Jazz Orchestra with Vance Thompson at The Emporium at 7 pm.

NOVEMBER 29 “Shake ‘Em on Down” Tour with Samantha Fish, Jesse Dayton, Jon Spencer, and Eric Johanson at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

NOVEMBER 30 19th Annual Santa Mouse Arts & Crafts Show at Dotson Memorial Baptist Church (Maryville) from 10 am to 5 pm.

Also Dec. 1st from 10 am to 5 pm and Dec. 2nd from 10 am to 3 pm.

Big Freedia’s Christmas in Central City Tour at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Kevin Gates: Only the Generals Tour at the Civic Coliseum at 8 pm.

T H I N G S TO D O • P L AC E S TO G O • P EO P L E TO S E E MARK YOUR CALENDAR

DECEMBER 1 Elf, Jr. The Musical by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre. See KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

Shows through December 17th.

Christmas in the Cave at Historic Cherokee Caverns. Fridays from 5 to 8 pm, Saturdays & Sundays from 3 to 8 pm through the 17th.

Visit CherokeeCaverns.com for info.

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

Christmas Candlelight Tours at Historic Ramsey House from 6 to 8 pm. Also the 2nd.

50th Annual WIVK Christmas Parade along Gay Street at 7 pm.

Nate Bargatze: The Be Funny Tour! at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm. Also the 3rd at 7 pm.

Watchhouse at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Also the 2nd at 8 pm.

Wynonna Judd at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

DECEMBER 2 Show Me Reptile Show at the Knoxville Expo Center from 10 am to 3 pm. Also the 3rd.

33rd Annual Victorian Holiday Home Tour in Old North Knoxville from 4 to 9 pm.

Also the 3rd from 1 to 5 pm.

Appalachian Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Civic Auditorium at 7 pm.

Also the 3rd at 3 pm.

DECEMBER 3 10th Annual Holiday Market at Ijams Nature Center from 10 am to 4 pm.

Knoxville Community Band Holiday Concert at the Bijou Theatre at 3 pm.

Light Up the Valley on Hardin Valley Road across from Pellissippi campus from 5 to 7 pm. First annual tree lighting event with food trucks and family friendly activities.

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 7 Esport Tournament for ages 8-14 at Farragut Community Center from 6 to 8 pm.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7 pm.

DECEMBER 8 The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by The WordPlayers at Clayton Performing Arts Center at Pellissippi State Hardin Valley campus at 7:30 pm.

Also the 9th and 10th at 2:30 pm.

Lauren Daigle at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:30 pm.

DECEMBER 9

DECEMBER 6

Jingle Bell Run at World’s Fair Park at 9 am.

Benefit for the Arthritis Foundation.

Meet Me at the Market: Christmas Gift Market at the Expo Center from 10 am to 5 pm.

The 55th Annual Nativity Pageant of Knoxville at the Civic Coliseum at 3 pm.

Also the 10th at 3 pm and the 11th at 7 pm.

Tour de Lights Parade on Gay Street at 5:30 pm.

Decorate your bike and join the fun!

Dave Barnes at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Dirty Dancing in Concert at the Civic Auditorium at 7:30 pm.

The Gatlin Brothers “Country and Christmas” at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Old City Market on West Jackson Avenue from 11 am to 4 pm.

Karen Mills at the Bijou Theatre at 3 pm.

Holiday Sparkles & Spirits at Cherokee Country Club from 6:30 to 10:30 pm.

A benefit for the Joy of Music School.

Jagged Little Pill: The Musical at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Also the 6th & 7th at 7:30 pm, 8th at 8 pm, 9th at 2 & 8 pm, and 10th at 1:30 & 7 pm.

SUNN O))) Shoshin Duo at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

DECEMBER 10

All event dates and times subject to change.

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LAMAR HOUSE & THE BIJOU THEATRE

Where History Meets Music

T

HE LAMAR House/Bijou Theatre had its beginnings as a private residence near the center of Knoxville’s business district. In 1801, a wealthy merchant named Thomas Humes (1768-1816) purchased a 1,200 square foot lot on the southwest corner of present-day Gay Street and Cumberland Avenue. Humes is credited with constructing the Lamar House, which was completed in 1816, soon after his death.

The building was soon converted into a hotel and was known for its popular ballroom and saloon. It was one of antebellum Knoxville’s favorite public places and sites of concerts, balls, feasts, and holiday parties. Only two other buildings in downtown Knoxville predate the Lamar House, both constructed as private residences - The Blount Mansion (built in 1792) and the James Park House (built in 1812).

Both armies found the building useful during the Civil War. Confederate General Joseph Johnston stayed here while planning his western campaign in 1863 and later that year, it was a Union army hospital. On November 18, 1863, Union officer William P Sanders (1833-1863) was shot and mortality wounded on Kingston Pike. He died in the bridal suite the next day.

The hotel’s balcony served as the platform from which many visiting politicians and statesman addressed Knoxvillians. U.S. Presidents Rutherford B. Hayes, James K. Polk, Ulysses S. Grant, and Andrew Jackson were all guests at the hotel.

44 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

In 1909, at the height of the vaudeville era, developers added the Bijou Theatre to the rear of the Lamar House. It drew some of the stars of the day, from Will Rodgers and the Marx Brothers to John Phillip Sousa. Though eventually it primarily showed movies, live drama would be a mainstay for most of the 20th century. In later years, Tallulah Bankhead, John Barrymore, Sydney Greenstreet, and Montgomery Cliff performed there.

In the early 1970s, the building was threatened with demolition, but a group of concerned Knoxville citizens made a passionate effort to save it - this is regarded as the birth of the historic preservation nonprofit Knox Heritage (then Knoxville Heritage). Restored and modernized in successive multimillion-dollar projects, it has been praised for its acoustics by both musicians and critics.

Today, the Bijou Theatre is a nonprofit institution. Their mission is to provide a gathering place for all, present live performing arts that stimulate cultural diversity and enrich the lives of East Tennesseans.

To find out more about the Bijou Theatre, attend a show, support financially, or sign up for their newsletter, visit KnoxBijou.org.

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.

Cheekwood Holiday Lights November 18 - January 7

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ASHVILLE’S CLASSIC holiday tradition returns, featuring a one-mile walking path with elegant and creative displays of lights that set Cheekwood Estate & Gardens aglow. With more than one million lights twinkling throughout the gardens, s’mores, seasonal libations and a Holiday Marketplace, Holiday LIGHTS is a memory-making experience for visitors of all ages.

S’mores Stations & Seasonal Libations While out exploring the luminous landscape, stop by one of the many kiosks throughout the grounds for hot cocoa or festive holiday spirits. S’mores kits will be available to purchase and roast at the stations behind the Holiday Marketplace in the Frist Learning Center.

Holiday Marketplace Open day and night, the Holiday Marketplace returns to the Frist Learning Center Great Hall with a nine-foot garden-themed ornament wall and a wide range of gifts and décor.

This year will feature an amazing selection of nutcrackers, reindeer, cardinals, and more.

Other highlights include new Cheekwood ornaments and dish towels, as well as an expanded selection of Jellycat holiday soft toys. Shop in the daytime or evening for gifts for loved ones or for a memento of a holiday experience at Cheekwood.

Holiday Décor in the Mansion Warm up indoors and view the holiday mansion décor, where themes of candy canes and gingerbread take over the historic period rooms. The iconic 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree on display in the Loggia features

a red-and-white striped candy cane inspired motif created by our talented gardens team.

Plan Your Visit Holiday LIGHTS is open seven nights a week from 5 to 10 pm beginning November 18 through January 7. Purchase tickets in advance at Cheekwood.org. Active duty and retired military personnel can enjoy halfpriced admission off Gardens Only tickets on Monday nights for up to five people. Tickets do sell out, so reserve your timed-entry tickets to Holiday LIGHTS in advance.

This one-mile trail is packed with holiday excitement that you won’t want to miss, so bring the whole family - it’s great for youngsters and those just young-at-heart.

Cheekwood is located at 1200 Forrest Park Drive in Nashville. More information is available at Cheekwood.org.

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Knoxville/Farragut • Hardin Valley • Lenoir City • Maryville • Athens

November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

45

UT Gardens’ Plant of the Month

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year:

GARLIC

BY LU C A S H O L M A N , E X T E N S I O N A G E N T A N D D I R E C TO R , U T/ T S U E X T E N S I O N W I L S O N C O U N T Y

S

INCE I HAVE started planting garlic, I have had zero vampire encounters in my garden. That’s not hearsay, that’s scientific fact. Garlic is one of those unique crops because you plant it in the fall and harvest it in the early part of summer. It prefers loose, well-drained soil and will not tolerate “wet feet.” If the soil does not drain, root rot can occur and your crop will fail during the winter. Most small growers prefer placing a layer of straw down after the garlic is planted to aid in weed prevention.

There are two main types of garlic - softneck and hardneck.

Typically, softneck varieties prefer warmer climates, and hardnecks need colder climates. The main difference is that hardneck varieties form a flowering stalk, and softneck varieties do not flower. If you see a beautiful braid of garlic, it is softneck. You cannot braid hardneck garlic because of its hard, flowering stem. It’s a good practice to break off the flowers after the first curl from the hardneck varieties to send all that energy to the bulb.

Tennessee is a great growing environment for both hard- and softneck garlic. If you are looking for softneck cultivars, try ‘Inchelium Red’ or ‘California White’. For those interested in hardneck cultivars, look for ‘Music’, ‘Purple Glazer’, or ‘Chesnok Red’.

When planting garlic, plant individual cloves instead of planting the entire bulb. When you break up each bulb, most bulbs will yield anywhere from seven to 14 cloves. Each clove needs to be spaced six inches apart and planted two inches deep. When planting, use a low nitrogen fertilizer to encourage root growth instead of leaf growth. In the springtime, it’s best to use a higher nitrogen fertilizer about the first week of April.

Everyone has their own way to determine when garlic is ready to harvest. I like to harvest my hardnecks when the bottom two to three leaves have completely turned brown. The rest of the leaves are green and still growing. Each green leaf represents a paper shell around the bulb, and you need six to seven shells around the garlic to help with the storage process.

Softneck garlic should be harvested when the top bends over at the neck, much like an onion.

Once harvested, garlic heads need to cure in an area with good air flow that is out of direct sunlight. I like to hang mine from the rafters in my barn. A carport also will work.

Just make sure the sun does not hit the garlic. Allow two to four weeks for the heads to cure. This curing process will

46 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

Photo courtesy of Lucas Holman

Garlic is fun and easy to grow in Tennessee.

help the bulbs last anywhere from six to seven months.

With the diversity of cultivars of garlic, be sure and experiment with a few different ones and you might just find a new favorite for your garden! For more information, check out Garlic for the Tennessee Vegetable Garden (UT Extension publication D75) found online at uthort.com. Simply enter “garlic” in the search box.

The UT Gardens includes plant collections located in Knoxville, Crossville, and Jackson, Tennessee. Designated as the official botanical garden for the State of Tennessee, the UT Gardens are part of the UT Institute of Agriculture. The Gardens’ mission is to foster appreciation, education, and stewardship of plants through garden displays, educational programs, and research trials. The Gardens are open during all seasons and free to the public.

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November in the Garden

BY L I S A G R U G I N

H

OOR AY FOR FALL! I’m so grateful for cooler temperatures. I hope that the November rain has begun because right now we haven’t had more than 0.1" in a month. I am tired of having to go home and drag out the hose.

If you put off your fall gardening because of the drought, let’s do a quick recap of what needs to be done: ☼ Do your yard checkup. Our heat-anddrought that followed cool-and-wet was 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.

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 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 temperature 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

November 2023

EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE

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Center New Exhibitions Opening Emporium November 3

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HE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present four new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from November 3-25. 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.

The Bottom: Ceramics Soul Collective Group Show in the Lower Gallery beginning November 8th This inaugural exhibition of The Bottom’s newly formed Ceramics Soul Collective celebrates the following individuals’ actions: Jalynn Baker, Maggie Connolly, Jazzmine Curtis, Fitrah Hamid Golden, George Habeib, Alex Kellam, Ty Murray, Jeremy Myles, Eric Sherwood, and Kifeney Walker.

During the last 18 months, Ceramics Soul Collective has gathered together each week to make, explore creative expressions, and grow the Knoxville Black Creative community through the ceramic art form. The very existence of this class is a testament to the power of individual and collective imagination to resist expectations, repair ever-expanding souls, and reclaim creative voices. This project is being supported in whole or in part by federal award number 21.027 awarded to the City of Knoxville by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Arts & Culture Alliance.

Synthesize: Shape, Surface, Saturation in the Upper Gallery This collection of complex, abstract works by Jan Burleson, Carl Gombert, Carrie Pendergrass, and Kelly Spell is a celebration of color and shape. The various media - printmaking with unique process applications, quilting with modern design, oil painting with a relation to collage, and mixed media - combine in a spontaneous union of pattern and repetition that generates vibrant visual energy. With subtle and direct references to pop culture and world events, each artist constructs layers of meaning and representation in their work and creates a sense of place. Taken as a whole, the exhibition seeks balance and order in a broader chaos while also honoring tradition and history.

Phil Savage: Photo Unique Perspective in the Atrium This new exhibition features an assortment of beautiful and unique photographic perspectives of Knoxville, Nashville, and the Smoky Mountains by local photographer Phil Savage. Most images will be in panoramic format, created by combining almost a hundred single images in order to form one breathtaking and memorable work of art.

Artist statement: My statement is simple in concept but quite challenging in execution: I want to create beautiful and

48 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

compelling images by always keeping in mind my personal goal of making the ordinary EXTRAORDINARY. Scott Carpenter: Dia de Muertos in the Display Case This portfolio of work honors the family culture of Oaxaca, Mexico.

During Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), families visit the graves of their deceased loved ones and pray for them. People decorate graves and themselves with marigolds and flowers. They dress themselves in skull masks and skeletons to celebrate life, death, and rebirth.

Spirits of ancestors are invited to coexist with their relatives in the earthly world.

The spirits are enticed back through altars of their old belongings, personal sugar skulls, and the love of their family. Both the spiritual and celebratory nature of Dia de Muertos are explored in this portfolio. The photographer seeks to share the beauty of the celebration and the light in the living as they entertain their ancestors.

Fiber Works by Tim Bridges on the North Wall This new exhibition features a collection of wall hangings, scarves, pillows, jewelry, bags, and apparel, all of which are based on traditional quilt patterns reimagined in a contemporary way. Sewing techniques include Mexican smocking, satin stitching, sprigging, and applique to create pieces that are all one of a kind.

Artist statement excerpt: I am a lifelong fiber/fabric artist whose clothing designs are vibrant contemporary reinventions/reinterpretations and/or reflections of patterns found in Rococo and Art Deco architecture, coupled with and incorporating references to Appalachian quilting patterns and stitching. I work typically with used/recycled denim for its suppleness, hidden charm, and strength.

Denim has demonstrated a willingness to be transformed, both in appearance and texture, creating a beautiful finale.

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 Wednesday-Friday, November 22-24. For more information, visit KnoxAlliance.com or call 865-523-7543.

laces We Swim Photo courtesy of Visit California/P

Planning the Perfect California

Road Trip Adventure C O U RT E S Y O F F F E

WITH NEAR-ENDLESS

sunshine, worldclass theme parks, and abundant outdoor experiences, California is an ideal destination to embark on an unforgettable adventure.

To make it easy for travelers to plan their trips, the 2023 California Road Trips guide includes 13 actionpacked itineraries that begin and end at one of the state’s 27 commercial airports, highlighting how easy it is to fly into any region of the Golden State and hit the road.

“California’s natural beauty, diverse topography, and culturally rich communities are the perfect backdrop for an epic road trip experience,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, a nonprofit organization that partners with the state’s travel industry to develop and maintain marketing programs that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. “This year’s guide showcases how the state’s vast network of international and regional airports provide travelers with convenient access to every corner of the California Road Trip Republic.”

The guide’s cover star, Dwyane Wade, a three-time NBA champion, dad, and owner of Napa Valley winery Wade Cellars, moved to Los Angeles after his retirement in 2019. Wade said California granted him a soulful landscape and much-needed quiet time.

“I like to find moments where no one can expect anything of me and California allows me to have those moments,” said Wade. “I’ll drive to the beach and walk next to the water. I’ll drive all over to

find those moments to connect with myself... I get my energy from that.”

While California’s world-renowned coastline provides a dramatic backdrop, adventures can be found in every region of the Golden State. Featured drives take travelers to both cities and classic small towns, family attractions and far-reaching, otherworldly landscapes. A few sample road trip itineraries include: • Animals, Desert, and Offbeat Art combines kidfriendly experiences like LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park with the rich arts culture and stargazing opportunities in Borrego Springs.

• Cactus and Cocktails explore both the cosmopolitan pleasures of Palm Springs and the rugged sceneries of Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave National Preserve.

• National Park Adventures is a 412-mile adventure that begins at Fresno Yosemite Airport and explores the wonders of Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks.

• Road to Gold is a four-day trek that begins in Sacramento, explores Lake Tahoe, and meanders back through Gold Country with photo opportunities at every turn.

• Innovation and Agricultural Bounty features a San Jose-based itinerary that showcases cutting-edge arts, charming seaside villages, and bountiful farmlands on a 238-mile journey.

To order a guide, go to VisitCalifornia.com/Travel-Guides.

Have You Heard About Blue Zones?

M

Photo by Mirtography

lives of these communities.

Y DECISION to port a landline phone Within our local small business and community, number to a VoIP (voice over internet a few examples come to mind: CEO business peer protocol) resulted in our internet and cable groups facilitated by Kurt Greene that provide a forum provider deleting our 30 year old account. I called for business owners to give and receive feedback for for repairs the same day, and a technician was sent each other, women’s clay artists Terra Madre, and the to restore internet service, but we later realized we Hardin Valley Business and Community Alliance. Their had no TV or email! When I called again, I learned most recent meeting included administrators from that since our account no longer existed (without our the Hardin Valley Schools providing a great update on requesting termination), there was no way to “unthe growth, challenges, and plans to do their best for do” this. Thankfully, our internet service still works, students and staff. Each of these environments offers although we were told this was not possible since a place to connect with community minded people we don’t have an account! Just a neighborly note for willing to invest time for the good of the cause and anyone else considering “moving” a phone line… relationships that may result.

All this to say, the interruption of cable TV may be a Another aspect of the of the blue zones - and a term blessing, as we came across the Netflix documentary mentioned in Okinawa, Japan - is “Ikigai,” or purpose.

“Live to 100, Secrets of the Blue Zones,” where author One translation refers to the convergence of one’s Dan Buettner travels to unique locations around the personal passions, beliefs, values, and vocation. This

BY B R E T T C A F F E RT Y world to learn why there is a disproportionately large was especially evident with the older folks who at age number of centenarians among the population. I won’t 80, 90, or 100+ just keep doing what they do - walk, spoil this fascinating documentary but thought it was talk, and be engaged with their communities and worth sharing a few observations. interests. In a business context, I compare this to those who continue I’ll focus on just two of many common threads of centenarians: Community - A common characteristic within these “blue zones” to provide needed expertise and tangible help to others.

Their longevity and zest for life isn’t the result of intentional diet is connection. It can be family, friends, mixed generations, and common causes - be it work, recreation, volunteering, or in faith- and exercise. It’s involvement in community, being engaged with based communities. The basic need to be part of something, and connected to others, and having a purpose that leads to a more expected to show up, know that others are expecting you to con- active, healthy, and full life. And yes, they also eat all their vegetables! tribute - and enjoy - the relationships is a vital part of the daily Food for thought?

Business Note

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50 EVERYTHING KNOXVILLE November 2023

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UPCOMING EVENTS: Anniversary Weekend ✦ Nov 17-19th Twelve Deals of Christmas ✦ Dec 1-12th Mountain Khaki Beer Tasting ✦ Dec 4 & 5th Mountain Khaki Pant Try-On ✦ Dec 4 & 5th VIP Night ✦ Dec 14th

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