West Knoxville, TN August 2024 by City Lifestyle

Sutherlin Subaru’s Love Promise to Knoxville

At Sutherlin Subaru, we are dedicated not just to our customers but to the entire Knoxville community. The Sutherlin Subaru Love Promise is our pledge to make a positive impact locally, supporting initiatives that enrich lives. Through our ongoing efforts, we have proudly donated over $300,000 to local East Tennessee charities and foundations. When you choose Sutherlin Subaru, you’re not just choosing a car; you’re helping us keep our promise to support and uplift the community.

Explore our range of vehicles: the versatile Crosstrek for your wilderness adventures, the spacious Ascent perfect for your family outings, or the exhilarating WRX for those who love a spirited drive. Drive with pride knowing that your Sutherlin Subaru is part of a bigger mission to foster a thriving local community.

Positively Pets & Kids!

As blazing hot as it is now, fall foliage is breathing down summer’s green neck impatient for its turn. With the return to school and all that fall brings, this issue explores how we can positively impact the lives of our kids and our four-legged pals. The smartest investment we can make in them is our time, along with our resources, to do the very best by them we possibly can. After all, we are their caretakers and they trust us to help them grow up safe, healthy, and happy. This month, some of our Knoxville neighbors have great recommendations for doing just that!

Joshua Dobbs, VFL, NFL quarterback, and founder of ASTROrdinary Dobbs Foundation, has one foot firmly on the gridiron and one foot defying gravity. He and Amanda Ingle, executive director of Girls Inc. of TN Valley, discover common ground in a passion for introducing girls to the innovation in space flight and exploration at Huntsville’s Space Camp.

Katelyn Emerson, who has the enviable title of Pet Parent Relationship Manager, gives us the run of Dogtopia of Bearden to show us how this dog daycare, boarding, and spa franchise makes it easy for pet parents to donate to a non-profit that supplies service dogs to our nation’s veterans.

Looking for ways to invest in the families of our community? Check in with East Tennessee Children’s Hospital’s Jennifer Lamb who gives us the big picture of how the Art of Healing program can make a big difference in the lives of patients and parents during their stay. And you can be a part of it!

PYA Waltman’s Eric Foster CPA, CFP®, proud pet parent of a Bernese Mountain dog, confesses to his battle for a coveted spot on his bed with Moose. Out of the struggle came some valuable insight about crowding out some healthy financial habits.

Knoxville History Project gives kids the scoop on the antics of Scruffy, a real history hound who takes them on a Selfie Scavenger hunt to sniff out Knoxville’s downtown history. (FYI – Look for Scruffy to soon be joined by a canine partner in crime, Knox!)

Enjoy this last month of summer. Please be our guest and enjoy the services and products of our partners. There are such great stories behind every one of our advertising partners who make Knoxville a better place to live for all of us. Get to know them!

AMY CAMPBELL

PUBLISHER

Marc Rochelson | marc.rochelson@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Amy Campbell | amy.campbell@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennie Treadway-Miller, Patricia Storm Broyles, Paul James, Eric Foster, CPA, CFP®, Nicole Stahl

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shawn Poynter, Ben Finch, Nadia Kidd, Eric Foster, CPA, CFP®

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Taking Care of Our Region, One Child at A Time

East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is committed to providing excellent pediatric care, offering help to every family and bringing healing to our region. We understand that providing the best care for your child means more than just treating their illness or injury. Our team of specialized pediatric healthcare professionals cares for the whole child and provides expert, customized care plans for your family.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: An autographed guitar, donated by Steve Augeri, was auctioned off for the night's charities. 2: Joy of Music School percussion teacher, Mike "Bones" Allen, enjoying the concert with his family. 3: Steve Augeri fans enjoy the concert at the Tennessee Amphitheatre. 4: Steve Augeri fans enjoy the concert at the World's Fair Park Tennessee Amphitheatre. 5: Concerts For Our Own presented Steve Augeri benefitting Joy of Music School June 13, World’s Fair Park. 6: Fans enjoying the concert at the World's Fair Park Tennessee Amphitheatre. 7: Supporters of the Joy of Music School.

business monthly

Dine Out for Education

Knox County restauranteurs are invited to participate in the 21st Annual “Dine Out for Education” on Tuesday, August 27. The promotion is a joint effort of Knox County Schools and the Partners in Education (PIE) Foundation and, in the past, has raised nearly $20,000 from approximately 45 participating restaurants. Participating restaurants contribute 10% of their pre-tax proceeds on August 27. More information KnoxSchoolsPie.org/DineOut/

POSITIVELY ART-WARMING

Jennifer Lamb standing in “Kaleidoscope.” | Artist: Yvonne Bobo | Location: NICU Entrance / Light Court

CHILDREN ARE NATURALLY DRAWN TO ART OF HEALING AT EAST TENNESSEE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

ARTICLE BY WEST KNOXVILLE LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN POYNTER

The decades-old memory of a frightened 5-year-old girl whose parents drove her in the early morning hours from Cocke County for a procedure at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital was heightened for ETCH Director of Development Jennifer Lamb when she met the daughter of the doctor who calmed her fears that day.

“Just Imagine” | Artists: Pile Of Coats:Joshua Fischer, Corrine Whitford & Paisley Gunter. | Location: NICU / Light Court

“I met Amy Campbell at this photo shoot. When I learned her dad was the late Dr. John Campbell who had such an impact on me, it reaffirmed how critical the environment we create is to the positive experience we want for patients and families. I’ll never forget Dr. Campbell (who served families at ETCH for decades) and how he gently comforted a little girl terrified of the unknown.”

"Every child is an artist." - Pablo Picasso

The mission heartbeat for East Tennessee’s only comprehensive regional pediatric center is to surround patients

and families in a holistic healing environment. In 2009, now-retired Vice President of Institutional Advancement Carlton Long debuted the hospital’s inspiring program, Art of Healing

According to Jennifer, this therapeutic art program curates pieces created by Tennessee artists – from emerging artists to Knoxville’s acclaimed glass sculptor Richard Jolley. The artwork is as diverse as the children and families served: tapestries, oils, acrylics, quilts, ceramics, handblown glass, painted wood, miniatures, sculpture, stainless steel, and many others.

Jennifer Lamb in the viewing area of “Just Imagine”,Artists: "Pile Of Coats:Joshua Fischer, Corrine Whitford & Paisley Gunter. Location: NICU Light Court

“OUR HEARTS ARE UNITED IN THE GOAL FOR THE CHILDREN WE SERVE TO HAVE POSITIVE, HEALING EXPERIENCES HERE AND TO LIVE LONG, HEALTHY, HAPPY, LIVES.”

- JENNIFER LAMB

It is the small things after all.

“For 15 years, every detail of this program has been thoughtfully planned. There’s a reason and clear criteria for the art and its placement,” says Director of Marketing Natalia Havasy. “Age of patients? Treatment? Long-term stay? … in order to assess what the halls, walls, and rooms need to emotionally support our families in a specific environment,” she adds.

“Communicating with children emotionally is easier through art, the room color palette, a dinosaur-design lead apron, even the bed sheets – the smallest décor and detail is selected to lessen

anxiety,” Natalia continues. Hopeful, joyful art helps distract from medical environments that can feel overwhelming to patients and families.

The emotional well-being of parents is also nurtured because positivity and peace translate to their children. The NICU Light Court Family Area with its levitating paper castle (“Just Imagine”) offers a serene space for exhausted moms to take a break from anxious thoughts. “NICU parents also have access to a rooftop garden, another legacy of Carlton Long, to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and natural beauty in the middle of the city,” Jennifer adds.

The art is fun and energetic in the Hematology/Oncology controlled-environment playroom where children with suppressed immune systems play. In the Waiting Room, a 9’x12’ wall holds a painted window overlooking green fields of bunnies while 3-D rabbits climb up for a peek into “Bunny World.”

Artful opportunities to invest

Jennifer explains there are pieces of artwork available for sponsorship by individuals or organizations. Historically, a committee helps select artwork reflecting the colors, shapes, themes, patterns, textures, and subjects that children are naturally drawn to — chosen from artist collections across the state, but also commissioned for ETCH.

“We have parents who sponsor art In Honor Of a child treated here, or a volunteer on behalf of another volunteer, or a group honoring our dedicated medical staff,” Jennifer adds. “Those interested in sponsorships can tour the hospital to see named opportunities.”

Jennifer’s position is her dream job. “My calling is fundraising for a hospital like ETCH that helps as many children as we possibly can. When your child is sick, you may not know where to turn, which can be frightening,” the mother of two continues. “We’re blessed with this treasure in our community where parents get the best medical care for their child from expert, caring medical teams. Our hearts are united in the goal for the children we serve to have positive, healing experiences here and to live long, healthy, happy, lives.” It’s an art unto itself.

To inquire about sponsorships, contact Jennifer Lamb at (865) 541-8668, jclamb@ etch.com, or visit Etch.com/ways-to-give/ art-of-healing/

"Bunny World" by Artist Rachael McCampbell. Location: Hematology-Oncology Waiting Room

Detail of “Tennessee Meadow” | Artist: Janet Petrell | Location: NICU Clinic Hallway.

Whether your retirement plans are adventurous or modest, they’re as unique as you. No two people are alike so no two plans should be alike. Finding someone you can trust, who takes the time to understand you, makes all the difference. Our in-house, independent team of experts starts with a simple step—listening.

Using Estate Planning to Protect Children and Pets

Article by Julie D. Eisenhower, Esq. Patel & Eisenhower, PLLC

Eﬀective estate planning ensures that your children and pets are cared for according to your wishes, providing peace of mind. Here are key considerations and strategies for protecting them:

1. Guardian and Caregiver. Use your will to name a guardian for your children and a caregiver for your pets in case of your death. Select a responsible and loving individual who can provide stability and a nurturing environment. Designate an alternate guardian or caregiver in case the primary person is unable to fulﬁll the role. Discuss your wishes with the chosen guardians and caregivers to ensure they are prepared for this responsibility.

2. Financial Security. Set up a trust to manage and distribute assets for your children's benefit, ensuring financial security, education, and support. Create a pet trust to provide financial security for your pet's care, specifying how funds should be used (food, veterinary care, etc.). Choose a competent and trustworthy individual or corporate trustee to manage the trust. Consider a life insurance policy to provide additional financial support for your children and pets.

3. Wri en Care Instructions. Include detailed care instructions for your children and pets in your will, trust, or a separate le er. Outline your values, educational preferences, and other wishes for your children's upbringing. Provide speciﬁc instructions regarding your pet’s care, medical history, routines, and veterinary information.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your children and pets are well cared for according to your wishes. Proper estate planning is a responsible and loving act that can signiﬁcantly impact the lives of your dependents.

217 S Peter Rd. Knoxville, TN 37923 865-217-1154 | PatelEisenhower.com

217 S Peter Rd. Knoxville, TN

Business Law & Contracts, Estate Planning, Trusts, & Probate, Elder Law & Conservatorships, Personal Injury Law & Civil Litigation Insurance Litigation, Copyright & Trademarks

Service dog training is supported with Dogtopia Foundation funding.

Redefining Puppy Love

Dogtopia Foundation Inspires Donors and Empowers Dogs to Impact the World and Save Lives

ARTICLE BY WEST KNOXVILLE

LIFESTYLE STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN POYNTER AND DOGTOPIA FOUNDATION

Inspired by a mission to enable dogs to positively change our world and save lives, Dogtopia Foundation launched in 2017. Dogtopia, a dog daycare, boarding and spa franchise founded in 2002, now has locations all over the country and in Canada which fundraise to support the Dogtopia Foundation’s three causes: Service Dogs for Veterans, Therapy Dogs for Students, and Employment Initiatives for Adults with Autism. A beautiful black lab named Quinn is the first dog that Dogtopia of Bearden has sponsored and is in training to be paired with her veteran with America’s VetDogs.

“Our donors at Dogtopia of Bearden are very close to sponsoring our second service dog, reaching our goal of $6,000 in celebration of our 2nd anniversary this August,” explains Pet Parent Relationship Manager (PPRM) Katelyn Emerson. Originally from Ohio, franchise owners Amanda and Jeremiah Webb previously owned franchises in children’s daycare in the Knoxville market. After selling those interests, they looked into dog daycare opportunities and secured the franchise for Knoxville, opening in Bearden in 2022. A Dogtopia of Farragut opens in 2025.

Dogtopia Foundation, which has just sponsored its 500th dog nationwide, provides funding to Assistance Dog International (ADI) certified nonprofit organizations including America’s VetDogs, who train and provide service dogs at no cost to veterans. U.S. Army Retired Command Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans, a highly decorated war hero, partners with the foundation to spread awareness about the need for service dogs. She shares her inspiring story that her service dog saved her life and educates the public on the program benefits. Visit DogtopiaFoundation.org/DogsSaveLives. Dogtopia makes donating easy for their pet parents, Katelyn explains. Fetch It Forward is a way for pet parents with enrolled dogs to add a donation to consistently give to the foundation in their weekly payments if they choose. Proceeds from weekly events also benefit the foundation, such as Makin’ Bacon. For a $5+ donation, your pup can enjoy a turkey bacon treat at Friday lunch.

CONTINUED >

A happy Dogtopia customer

Rubberized flooring throughout Dogtopia is better for joints and paw pads.

DOGTOPIA C LIMATE CONTROLLEDPLAYROOMS MAKE THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMERABREEZE.

As PPRM, Katelyn says, “I get to meet our pet parents when they first come in, easing their concerns and answering questions. Dogtopia was created to expertly cover every base in dog care, boarding, and spa services. For example, perks like family emergency or last-minute boarding are available to enrolled dogs to offer pet parents peace of mind.” Katelyn answers FAQs and describes how Dogtopia answers these important questions:

SAFETY. IS YOUR DOG SUPERVISED BY TRAINED DOG HANDLERS IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT?

Our dogs are in one of three open playrooms with dogs of similar size, temperament, and play style. Canine Coaches, certified after vigorous training, supervise, knowing what to look for in behavior in all kinds of breeds and how to handle situations.

SOCIALIZATION. ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROUP EXERCISE AND SOCIAL SKILLS?

Our dogs get up to 10 hours of open play daily so they are exercising and socializing with friends, gaining socialization skills for the rest of their lives.

CLEANLINESS. ARE PLAY AND BOARDING SPACES CLEAN AND ODOR-FREE?

We follow vigorous Dogtopia protocols, with online and hands-on training. Noon – 2 p.m. all dogs are crated to give them a break, and allow staff to clean, in addition to constant cleaning in open play.

CLIMATE CONDITIONS. IF INDOOR/OUTDOOR, HOW DOES THE DAYCARE KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE AND COMFORTABLE IN EXTREME TEMPERATURES?

Our facility is 100% indoors. Each playroom is climate-controlled with its own HVAC system, fresh air constantly pumped in the room for an outdoor feel.

COMFORT/HEALTH. IS THE DAYCARE MINDFUL OF YOUR DOG’S HEALTH AND COMFORT, ESPECIALLY SENIOR DOGS?

Play rooms have easy-clean rubberized flooring instead of cement floors (better for joints, hips, and paw pads, especially for seniors). All dogs must pass a Dogtopia evaluation, be vaccinated, and monitored for illnesses at daily check-in.

ACCESS. CAN YOU MONITOR YOUR DOG’S CARE?

Pet parents can log in and watch their dog at play, and monitor care and boarding via webcams.

Katelyn says, “I am amazed at how well thought out every detail of the Dogtopia experience is for dogs and their pet parents. Amanda and Jeremiah have a passion for excellence that shows every day. My dog is my child and, like all our pet parents, I want the absolute best in daycare. At Dogtopia, we go above and beyond on behalf of those relationships between pet and parent.”

The inherent value placed on the lives of dogs, and their relationships with their humans, is reflected in the work of the Dogtopia Foundation, where donors can be assured 100% of their contributions go to the organizations the foundation supports and its vision of dogs changing the world.

To donate, go to dogtopiafoundation.org or text “Dogtopia482” to 7177 or directly to the Bearden location: app.mobilecause.com/if/DOGTOPIA/team/ BeardenKnoxville

Check out Instagram #dogtopiabearden Book a Meet and Greet. Dogtopia.com/ Bearden-Knoxville

L-R: Sarah Archer, General Manager; Skylor Stout, Operations Manager; Katelyn Emerson, Pet Parent Relationship Manager

Local, Family-Owned Salons for Over 45 years

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Runway

A couple of weeks ago we had a visit from some of our friends at Keune Haircosmetics, and during our discussion it was suggested that our life- our day-to-day interactions- is our runway. Whoa, what a great concept! When stylists attend hair shows and events, we observe models showing off hairstyles and products on the runway gaining inspiration and excitement. We watch stylists (often from around the world) create beautiful hair and send their models out to show the crowd.

Daily, people are out advertising the work of their hairdresser, and by default the hair products specific for achieving the look! Who we encounter throughout the day is our audience, and our runway so to speak. How often do you get compliments on your hair? How awesome does it make you feel when you do?

If you are in a hair rut, we are here to help! If you need styling advice, give us a call. If you need product suggestions, we have those too. You are the model, and we are the artists sending you down the runway.

ASTRORDINARY DOBBS FOUNDATION

VFL Joshua Dobbs Takes Girls Inc. Group to Space Camp

ARTICLE BY JENNIE TREADWAY-MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADIA KIDD

Joshua Dobbs has been an athlete since he was a little boy, but in between those moments on the field and court, he was looking to the sky.

Joshua Dobbs and the older group from Girls Inc. work on a filtration system to make dirty water potable.

“The goal is to make this a routine trip, whatever it looks like ...This is the start of something special.”

- Joshua Dobbs

“I was around seven years old, and I think they were launching four rockets a year at the time, so I started learning about the history of the space program and seeing the rockets, and that really sparked my interest,” he says. “My first love was aviation –how they fly, why they fly.”

Growing up, Joshua played sports year-round in his hometown of Alpharetta, Georgia – basketball, baseball, football – but he was also a natural at math and science. Fortunately, he was never made to choose between his talents and interests, so even when it came to playing quarterback at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, he was eager to study Aerospace Engineering, graduating with a 4.0 GPA. He credits the support of his parents, teachers, and coaches for giving him a strong foundation from which to build a diverse and successful life.

And it’s that same energy he pours into supporting young people through his nonprofit, ASTROrdinary Dobbs Foundation. While the organization works with myriad nonprofits, such as East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, Knoxville HonorAir, and the Wounded Warrior Project, Joshua was keen to partner again with Girls Inc. of TN Valley and help facilitate a condensed, one-day Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

“NASA was definitely a thought when starting the foundation and thinking about who I wanted to benefit. Through my time externing with NASA in 2020, I got to see the first launch of SpaceX, and I was looking around and there were senators there and the president was there, but there were kids there too,” he says. “Seeing their faces, watching the astronauts load up… A trip to the Rocket Center was a huge trip and a notch in the belt to eventually get them to a launch.”

The fun bus ride from Nasa in the Park to the US Space & Rocket Center.

While Joshua Dobbs went to Adult Space Camp during his third year playing for the NFL, Amanda Ingle, executive director of Girls Inc. of TN Valley, went to Space Camp when she was only nine years old. Pulling together this event with the ASTROrdinary Dobbs Foundation was a literal dream come true.

“I was talking to Stephanie Dobbs, his mom, who’s our contact person at the foundation, and we were talking about Space Camp. I told her how transformative it was for me. It made such an impression, and while I didn’t go into a STEMrelated field and stuck with the soft sciences, I still took astronomy in college. It instilled a lot of curiosity in me, feeling like science and tech and space-related careers were accessible to me,” says Amanda. “I wanted our girls to do it, and Joshua is so connected to the Space & Rocket Center, and I was already looking to do some aerospace curriculum with the girls at our summer camp.”

The plans came together, and on Saturday, June 22, approximately 30 girls hopped on a bus and rode from Oak Ridge to Huntsville. They started at NASA in the Park, a free and public event presented by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Joshua met them there, and together they engaged with the various hands-on activities and learned about the Artemis Mission.

Then, the group loaded on the bus again, this time with Joshua aboard, and off they went to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center for the Space Camp experience.

Joshua Dobbs and Girl’s Inc. participants outside the US Space & Rocket Center.

Joshua Dobbs at the US Space & Rocket Center.

“For many of our girls, this is how they get to do things like this... so I’d love to continue this level of opportunity for our girls.” - Amanda Ingle

“They got to see the history of the space program, the Saturn V rocket on display, and talk to engineers and scientists,” says Joshua. “The older girls were put into a survival lab, given a dirty cup of water and random materials to learn how to work together to build a filtration system so the water could be drinkable. The younger girls got a chance to work with different chemicals to see what makes a propellant. I wasn’t leading, but I was there to support the girls. The teachers of the class asked some complex questions, and they could answer them.”

The deputy director of the flight center spoke to the group, and then they went to the planetarium to learn about the solar system. Finally, the group experienced mock astronaut training in the MultiAxis Trainer and a simulation of moon gravity.

“This group of girls were all like me as a kid,” says Joshua. “They love space and are fascinated by things that fly. They’d done a lesson plan the week before, so they came prepared.”

It was a long day but well worth it.

“I thought they’d be comatose on the way back, but they weren’t,” says Amanda, laughing. “One of the six-year-old girls was talking about what she’d learned, and I just watched her. The excitement on her face… It’s great to be intentional about our programs. The girls doing the labs at Space Camp were going through Newton’s Three Laws of Motion, which they’d just learned about before they went, so they were able to be engaged that way. I’m happy when we can make a cross-curriculum learning experience.”

“We’re a nonprofit organization serving more than 700 girls in our community every year. I would love to have this level of opportunity on a regular basis.”

— Amanda Ingle

As for the future, both Amanda and Joshua say they hope this can be a regular event.

“For many of our girls, this is how they get to do things like this,” says Amanda, “so I’d love to continue this level of opportunity for our girls.”

“The goal is to make this a routine trip, whatever it looks like,” Joshua says. “I’m in conversations with NASA and even commercial companies, like Blue Origin out of Texas. This is the start of something special.”

While Joshua Dobbs continues his career in the NFL, he’s keeping a foot in aerospace. In fact,

he’s currently working on his pilot’s license while following the latest in innovation for space flight and exploration.

“Commercial companies have really changed the trajectory of where NASA can go. They’re pushing the limits, and they don’t have as much public pressure as NASA does. So, we’re able to have a rocket complete a mission and take a ton of data from it. Then, you can truly innovate quicker,” says Joshua. “The first person to go to Mars is already living and breathing. It’s here and happening quickly.”

Joshua Dobbs and the younger group from Girls Inc. work with different chemicals to see what makes a propellant.

As for making an impact on young people in East Tennessee, especially when it comes to STEM-related fields and careers, Girls Inc. could use more help.

“It’s such a game-changer when you have people who are familiar with working with children as well as the subject matter,” says Amanda. “We’re a nonprofit organization serving more than 700 girls in our community every year. I would love to have this level of opportunity on a regular basis.”

Girls Inc. of TN Valley was established as a girls-only sports program in Anderson County in 1976. After moving into their current facility in Oak Ridge in 2000, the Girls Inc. affiliate shifted its focus to STEM programming, academic success, and career readiness. The affiliate incorporated in Knox County in 2015 and Blount County in 2018. The nonprofit is dedicated to delivering life-changing programs and experiences to “equip girls to overcome serious barriers to grow up strong, smart, and bold.”

Get involved by visiting GirlsInctnv.org and AstrordinaryDobbsFoundation.org

Joshua Dobbs at the US Space & Rocket Center.

THERE IS A MOOSE IN MY BED

ARTICLE BY ERIC FOSTER, CPA, CFP®

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN FINCH

At PYA Waltman Capital, we help clients figure out what is really important and how to quantify and measure progress over time.

Our family has two large Bernese Mountain dogs. Our first was Moose, who is five. Moose is about 120 pounds. We trust him enough to let him be free at night and he usually curls up on a couch when he’s ready to settle in for the night. A few months ago, as I headed to bed, he hopped off the couch and followed me back to the bedroom door.

We had a mini stare off in the hallway and as I opened the door, he squeezed in front of me and hopped up onto our bed and made himself comfortable. He had decided it was time for him to upgrade.

He doesn’t attempt this often, but every couple of weeks he races me back to claim his spot. Let’s just say that he rarely lays where you would hope. I’ve found myself pinned against the edge of the bed, contorting myself to an odd position to avoid him, or unable to even use the covers as they are under the girth of Moose. I’ve even had to box him out behind me to make sure I got into the bed first so that I could claim my rightful spot as a human in my own bed!

This has me thinking about other things that get crowded out in life. We are pretty good at making plans which get crowded out by seemingly more urgent needs. Personal savings can be an easy thing to get crowded out. There are way more fun uses for our money than just saving it, right? One more trip, ever escalating college bills, or a car that needs a new set of tires.

Many Americans rely on their workplace retirement plan as a primary savings vehicle. The ease of automatic deposits each payroll that are largely out of sight can beautifully compound over time. One of the greatest inventions of the past 20 years is the ability to

set your retirement plan savings to automatically increase each year. We call this automatic escalation and I think it’s one of the most powerful tools available to help boost savings in a realistic way.

A 2023 behavioral study from Carnegie Mellon and UCLA found that most participants who were signed up to auto-escalate their annual savings continued to allow the increases to happen. It’s a total flip of the procrastination and inertia problems in a normal system that requires participants to remember how to access their account and consistently maintain discipline to increase savings levels.

It's important to spend some time to plan out our goals and determine the amount of financial fuel that will be required to achieve them. At PYA Waltman Capital, we help clients figure out what is really important and how to quantify and measure progress over time. That won’t keep a Moose out of your bed, but it might help you sleep better at night to know where you stand.

PYA Waltman Capital, LLC (“PYAW”) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. More information about PYAW’s investment advisory services can be found in its Form ADV Part 2, which is available upon request. PYA-24-18

Study: https://www.voya.com/news/2023/05/ new-voya-behavioral-finance-researchfinds-employers-can-boost-defaultescalators-401k

Scruffy The History Hound

Over the past few years, downtown scavenger hunts, including Where’s Waldo and the Christmas Peppermint Trail, have proved to be highly popular with resident families and visitors alike.

While the Knoxville History Project’s programs and publications typically serve adult audiences, new activity pamphlets for children have been developed by Nicole Stahl, in part due to her love of history and outdoor activities with her daughter and Girl Scout, Zoey, and husband, Shaun.

The first activity pamphlet that Nicole put together celebrated Knoxville’s 2022 celebration of the 40th anniversary of the 1982 World’s Fair. Back before 1982, many people wondered if the “Scruffy Little City” in Tennessee could pull off hosting a world’s fair. Despite the naysayers, Knoxville did pull it off in style, ultimately hosting six million visitors in its six-month run. You can visit where it all happened downtown at World’s Fair Park.

ARTICLE BY NICOLE STAHL AND PAUL JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN POYNTER, THE KNOXVILLE HISTORY PROJECT

Nicole Stahl, Zoey, Hans and Daisy.

One of the activities featured is a fun Crossword that introduces the park’s Court of Flags, Tennessee Amphitheatre and, of course, the world-famous Sunsphere, all specially created for the 1982 extravaganza. Plus, the perpetually popular Petro’s can now be enjoyed on Market Square.

Nicole, who has worked for KHP since 2016, was also inspired by the city’s nickname from that era and coupled with her own love for her faithful Dachshunds, Hans and Daisy, she created a fun and kid-friendly mascot: Scruffy!

As a self-confessed “history hound,” Scruffy sniffs out the stories of the past to help people of today to learn why things are the way they are. Through another themed activity pamphlet, Scruffy helps kids sniff out the history of downtown Knoxville.

As Scruffy likes to tell it, “Gay Street was developed in the 1790s and has served as the city’s ‘main street’ ever since. In 1854, it became the very first paved road here in Knoxville. Over the years, this street has seen the signing of the papers that resulted in Tennessee becoming a state; Wild West shoot-outs and prison breaks; presidential speeches; the city’s first skyscraper; famous singers; the formation of college athletic powerhouse, the Southeastern Conference; Civil Rights sit-ins and protests; the oldest Veterans Day parade in the nation; and numerous memorable stores, restaurants and theaters.”

In Scruffy’s Selfie Scavenger Hunt, kids (along with their parents) are encouraged to explore Knoxville’s iconic street starting at the Gay Street Bridge, which was built in 1898

and is the fourth bridge across the Tennessee River around that spot. Over the decades these bridges have carried thousands of pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and of course many animals across the river.

Along Gay Street near the river are several important buildings, including the distinctive Knox County Courthouse, and the Andrew Johnson building, which was developed as a hotel to serve a new wave of tourists stopping in Knoxville in the late 1920s and ‘30s before heading on to a new national park in the Great Smoky Mountains. Heading north along Gay Street, other iconic buildings include two historic theaters: the Bijou and the Tennessee. The scavenger hunt also encourages kids to find fun things like orange clothes (Go Vols!), ice cream, and scooters.

Plus, Scruffy introduces a cast of famous and historically important characters who have walked down Gay Street, including Cal Johnson, the African American saloonkeeper and horse trainer who was born into slavery, but became a wealthy and highly respected businessman during his lifetime. The English-born writer Frances Hodgson-Burnett, author of one of the most beloved children’s books of all time, The Secret Garden (1911), walked these streets when she lived here in the 1860s and ‘70s. And of course, our very own regional member of royalty Dolly Parton came here in the late 1950s and, as she wrote in her autobiography, “fell in love with her audience” at the former WVIK Radio station on N. Gay Street. All these names and more can be found in the People of Gay Street Wordsearch puzzle in the activity pamphlet.

“GAY STREET WAS DEVELOPED IN THE 1790S AND HAS SERVED AS THE CITY’S ‘MAIN STREET’ EVER SINCE. IN 1854, IT BECAME THE VERY FIRST PAVED ROAD HERE IN KNOXVILLE.”

Scruffy also helps younger audiences discover some of the city’s respected artists from the past by spotting KHP’s Downtown Art Wraps along Gay Street: the colorful traffic light signal boxes adorned with reproductions of paintings found in Knoxville’s art museums, including Lloyd Branson’s famous Tennessee marble-inspired, Hauling Marble; Catherine Wiley’s classic Untitled (Mother and Child in a Meadow); Buck Ewing’s striking Sports Final; and Charles C. Krutch’s Smoky Mountains landscape.

All in all, we hope that you and your little ones will choose Scruffy to lead you around Knoxville and learn something new about the history of this fascinating city!

Find these activity sheets by searching “Scruffy” at KnoxvilleHistoryProject.org

ABOUT KHP

The nonprofit Knoxville History Project tells the city’s stories, focusing on those that have not been previously told and those that connect the city to the world. Donations to support the work of the Knoxville History Project, an educational nonprofit, are always welcome and appreciated.

Forthcoming activity pamphlets will also feature a new character, Knox. We are excited about what Knox will get up to with Scruffy since he’s been created by our good friend Amy Campbell, a local artist and the co-publisher of this magazine.

Gay Street by Shawn Poynter

Gay Street Postcard 2 KHP

ARTICLE BY WEST KNOXVILLE LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

FURRYLAND MOBILE PET GROOMERS

Mobile Groomer Boosts Shelter Dogs’ Adoptability and Mood

While gathering stories for this Kids and Pets issue, we recently asked Ashley Jackson, General Manager of Furryland Mobile Pet Groomers, Knoxville to share a humorous story with us about a day in the life of a mobile pet groomer. Instead, she shared an impactful story that recently made a difference in the lives of two shelter dogs in rough shape.

WE KNOW THAT YOU PUT YOUR HEART INTO WHAT YOU DO. WILL YOU SHARE YOUR STORY WITH US?

We got a call from the Anderson County Animal Shelter, and they said they had two dogs that really needed grooming because they were in bad shape. There was a Great Pyrenees and an Aussie Doodle. So, we went up there and gave them a good shave down. They had some fleas on them, so we took care of that. They were so muddy and clumpy and once we gave them a bath and a good shave, they were like completely new dogs. They were so happy they were jumping up and down. The shelter people were like “Wow, we’ve never seen them this happy before” and they were such a joy.

One of the reasons why I chose to be a groomer was to make the dogs feel better, to make them feel new and fresh and clean and happy again. In this situation, we worked with the foster pet parents on price just to help the dogs and the shelter out. We wanted to help in any way we could. You can just tell a difference. They feel lighter, fresher, cleaner, and happier, it makes a world of difference.

DID THE DOGS GET ADOPTED?

Yes, I’m sure they got adopted very quickly. They are no longer on the Anderson County Animal Shelter Facebook page.

More information about Furryland: Furryland.us.

11th Annual Knox Asian Festival

Sept. 7th VIP Event 6PM - 9PM ASHURA NINJA CORPS MATSURIZA TAIKO DRUM TROUPE THE NATYARPANA DANCE COMPANY

TICKETS ARE $25

The cost of admission includes a festival t-shirt and all-day access to the festival the next day

Sept. 8th Asian Festival 10:30AM - 6PM

ADMISSION $3.00

visitors 12 years and up free for children under 12

www.knoxasianfestival.com

All entry gates will be cashless, you are encouraged to purchase tickets ahead of time. Tickets can be bought online.

Tennessee's MOST ICONIC EVENT VENUE

AUGUST 2ND

Dogwood Regional Exhibition

Emporium Center and Dogwood Gallery | 12:00 PM

The Dogwood Regional Exhibition showcases fine art of all kinds from emerging and established artists throughout our region from August 2-30. The juried exhibition takes place annually in August. Learn more at DogWoodArts.com

AUGUST 10TH

Knoxville Home Expo

Knoxville Convention Center | 10:00 AM

Saturday and Sunday, August 10 and 11, talk to local, regional, and national experts in remodeling, building, decorating, and landscaping. In addition, there will be instructional how-to seminars, giveaways and exhibits. There is no charge for admission. Learn more at KnoxvilleHomeExpo.com

AUGUST 10TH

Chattanooga Lookouts at Tennessee Smokies

Kodak | 7:00 PM

Watch East Tennessee’s baseball team from the stands, a porch or a luxury suite. Many different group and family packages are available. Chattanooga Lookouts at Tennessee Smokies play August 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 at the stadium in Kodak. More information at Milb.com/Tennessee

AUGUST 11TH

Second Sunday Docent Tour

Knoxville Museum of Art | 2:00 PM

KMA visitors can follow a trained docent educator through the galleries to learn more about the KMA collection and temporary exhibitions. Tours are 60 minutes and free to the public. Visitors can meet at the front desk at 1:55 p.m. to join the tour. Learn more at KnoxArt.org

AUGUST 11TH

Old City Market for Artists and Makers

West Jackson Ave. | 11:00 AM

The Second Saturday of the month from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., The Old City Market transforms the historic Old City into a curated, outdoor market showcasing artists, crafters, and creative makers. Plus enjoy restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping for a day Downtown. More information at OldCityKnoxville.org

AUGUST 16TH

Soundscapes at the KMA

Knoxville Museum of Art | 7:30 PM

It’s the season finale of Soundscapes at the KMA, monthly concert series that combines art and live music at the Knoxville Museum of Art. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the music begins at 7:30 p.m. There will be a cash bar and food available from a local vendor. Tickets and more information at KnoxArt.org

AUGUST 21ST

Rodney Crowell and The Alex Leach Band

Bissell Park, Oak Ridge | 6:00 PM

The Oak Ridge Tennessee Summer Sessions Concert Series in Bissell Park, Oak Ridge sponsored by ORNL with support from WDVX present Rodney Crowell and The Alex Leach Band. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy Americana roots music. With onsite concessions benefitting United Way of Anderson County and local food truck vendors and iced treats. For more information visit OrnlFcu.com/Summer-Sessions

AUGUST 24TH

Harmony Family Center Presents Music at Montvale

Harmony Family Center at Montvale | 5:30 PM

East Tennessee Writers Hall of Fame member Scott Miller returns to the Music at Montvale stage with special guest David Childers of Western North Carolina. Scott Miller has toured with Patty Griffin, Robbie Fulks, Paul Thorn, Robin and Linda Williams, and American Aquarium. Tickets and information at HarmonyFamilyCenter.org

AUGUST 31ST

Stanley’s 8th Annual Butterfly Festival

Stanley’s Greenhouse | 10:00 AM

Enjoy this free event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. celebrating the planet’s most beautiful pollinators. With children’s butterfly craft stations, walking tour and scavenger hunt in Monte’s Meadow, and a “Beneficial Plants to Attract Butterflies to your Garden” seminar. Registration is required. Learn more at StanleysGreenhouse.com.

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

DOG

SOCIALIZING

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99% working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

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