Everything Knoxville March 2024 Edition

12 Cabry Design & Cabinetry

Making Knoxville more beautiful, one kitchen at a time.

16 ShelfGenie®

Discover how to add real value to your home and to your life.

21 Open Chord

Live music lineup for March.

30 Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting of Knoxville

Shining the light on your home's exterior.

PATTIE CAPEZZA AND KEN BAER

began K&P Remodeling more than 10 years ago to give customers a faster and easier option to a complete remodel - a home refresh! Give your kitchen a facelift with new cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware, then update your home’s windows to freshen your curb appeal and energy efficiency.

AFTER

OUR recent snowmageddon, I am excited to be heading up to the Smoky Mountains for a “girls weekend” with a couple of friends. Our history of getaways began while our kids were still toddlers and most of us belonged to the same mom’s group. That group understood how important a change of scenery was for the soul of a busy mom, and we never missed the opportunity to unplug, mentally and emotionally “refuel,” and just enjoy each other’s company and camaraderie. There is a lot of power in “same boat”edness!

We all met at church in the mid 1990s, and our kids have essentially grown up together. Throughout the years, they have had playdates, been Boy Scouts, ridden horses, gone to youth group, and had their own friendship trip adventures. As time has passed and our children have become adults, we have commemorated birthdays, led ministries, celebrated milestones,

battled emotional unrest, hosted showers, traveled for weddings, and now welcomed the first grand baby. That is a lot of life!

Admittedly, I really hadn’t foreseen having these longtime friendships since I moved around so much when I was a growing up. After living in Knoxville for more than 30 years, it is truly comforting to be around women who have known you since your nursing bra days, and I am sincerely thankful that I have these friends in my life!

So this weekend, we will again step away from our regular patterns and activities to reconnect with each other. Our game plan mostly involves chatting, reading books (and magazines!), chatting, going outlet shopping, chatting, walking a trail or two, chatting, eating snacks, chatting, and probably chatting. It is really wonderful to have those people in your life that you can just relax, chill out, and be yourself around. Let the unwinding begin! Susan

Cover photo by Golightly Studios

Photo by Morgan Hayley Harper

Photo by Golightly Studios

FROMTHEIR HUMBLE beginnings a little over 10 years ago, K&P Remodeling owners Pattie Capezza and her husband, Ken Baer, have made the most of every growth opportunity that has come their way. What began as a local collaboration with The Home Depot’s Knoxville and Chattanooga stores now includes locations in eight states. Everything Knoxville talked to Ken about this amazing expansion, the services they provide, and why there is no better place for their corporate headquarters than Knoxville.

EK: Wow, that is a lot of growth in 13 years - a true American success story! Tell us how all this came about.

Ken: Pattie has more than 20 years of experience in the industry, and I have been in the home improvement business for more than 35 years. After we began K&P Remodeling in late 2012, a business mentor gave us the amazing opportunity to begin working with The Home Depot doing kitchen cabinet refacing for customers here in Knoxville and also in their Chattanooga market.

The beauty of our relationship with The Home Depot is that they do all your “homework” for you. In order to work for them, a company must be background-checked, licensed, insured, and keep reviews at 4.6 out of 5.0 in customer satisfaction. At K&P, we are held to very high standards. We started with 14 area locations but now service 103 stores, providing The Home Depot customers with cabinet refacing, state-of-the-art windows, and home organization/closets.

At the same time we were expanding with them, we were also building our K&P Remodeling brand, and the business continued to grow at a very fast pace! Pattie and I have created systems for all aspects of our business, streamlining our business model in order to be able to add new products and new territories very easily.

EK: What specific services does K&P Remodeling offer?

Ken: Our primary business focus and expertise is updating kitchens and installing advanced technology windows. We love project planning! And people love discovering that they can have a kitchen makeover in only three to five days as compared to a total kitchen remodel that can take months to complete.

We begin with a complimentary in-home consultation, where we bring the showroom to you (colors, styles, etc.), plan the kitchen look you’ve always wanted, provide a best estimate, then freeze the price for two years. At K&P, we reface your existing cabinetry by installing new doors, drawer fronts, and boxes, then add new hardware for a fresh, complete look. The kitchen remodel can also include crown molding, new countertops, roll-out drawers, and soft-close glides and hinges. We can add more cabinets, take away old cabinets, or build a useful and beautiful island. The best part - you can use your kitchen every night while the transformation is going on.

PhotosbyGolightlyStudios

The award-winning polymer frame Heat Mirror windows we install are super insulated and block 99% of UV light - saving your flooring, furnishings, and electricity bill. These also come with our two year estimate price freeze. When people feel and see with their own eyes how much they’ll save on heating and cooling costs, it’s easy to see why so many Knoxvillians are investing in the best windows on the market. In fact, we just installed more than 40 of these Heat Mirror windows at our new corporate headquarters building in the Bearden area. With advanced

“

REFRESHYourHOME

At K&P Remodeling, we give complimentary in-home consultations where we bring the showroom to you, then we freeze your estimate price for two years. ”

HOME

technology developed at NASA to keep the Stealth Bomber undetectable by radar, and the fact that the Empire State Building has these windows, further shows that K&P won’t install anything into someone’s home that we don’t trust and use ourselves.

EK: Where do you see K&P Remodeling now and in the future?

Ken: We continue to have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and attribute the majority of this to treating all the people who work with us as family - more than half have been with us for more than eight years! Pattie and I love calling Knoxville home and are a very out-and-about social couple. The last thing we’d want is for an unhappy K&P customer to publicly approach us to complain about a job that we did for them. We live by the adage “the customer is always right,” so we do everything possible to ensure that every customer has a 5-star experience by doing the right thing every time!

We look forward to coming out and meeting a lot of our Knoxville neighbors. K&P Remodeling is the easiest way to start planning for your next home improvement! Remember, our home consultations are complimentary with a two year price freeze, allowing you to decide when to move forward. We are excited to launch our headquarters here in Knoxville and are currently working on bringing more products to our area - stay tuned!

K&P Remodeling

865.213.1406

KPRemodeling.com

K&P Remodeling is proud of their accolades!

• 1st company to achieve One Million Dollars in business with The Home Depot Services Division.

• Inc. magazine - one of the fastest growing private companies in America for five years in a row. Invited to speak on the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center’s panel about being included in Inc.’s Top 5000.

• Qualified Remodeler magazine’s Top 500 Companies at #124 and #96 on The HIP (Home Improvement Professionals) 200.

• Remodeling magazine’s Big 50!

BEFORE AFTER

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.

Training Tips Taught at Dogtopia Daycare

AWELL-BEHAVED dog is simply the best, right? At Dogtopia, we structure playtime to be fun but also instructional. Canine Coaches play games to prepare dogs for everyday situations that might cause overexcitement and maybe a few barks. Instead, Dogtopia dogs are introduced to new stimuli naturally and calmly.

Door Training

At the door, dogs may want to say hello by jumping up on the new guest or entirely blocking the entryway with happy tail wags. Canine Coaches draw a chalk zone within the doorway and praise dogs that remain outside that space. Those who jump and walk into that space are moved to the exterior of the line. This “game” reminds dogs that staying away from the door will result in positive praise and head scratches so in no time, your dog will be behaving for guests and package deliveries!

Bark Control

865.622.2599

Dogtopia.com/Bearden-Knoxville

Along with 14+ miles of natural surface trails within their 318-acre urban greenspace and quarry, Ijams has something for everyone this spring:

March 9

35th Annual Ijams River Rescue along the Tennessee River from 10 am to 1 pm.

March 10

Self Care Sunday Yoga Class from 1 to 2 pm, also on the 17th and 24th.

March 17

East Tennessee Bluegrass Association Monthly Jam “Pickin’ on Nature” from 2 to 5 pm.

March 20

Sunset Series: World Storytelling Day Smoky Mountain Storytellers from 7 to 8:30 pm.

April 7

Creative Series:

Hike and Paint Workshop

Create your own River Boardwalk masterpiece from 1 to 4 pm.

April 10

Creative Series: Herbal Spring Tonics The Empirical Herbalist teaches healthy plants from 5 to 7 pm.

April 14

Mayapple Marketplace Nurseries, vendors, artists, and crafters from 10 am to 2 pm.

For more information, visit Ijams.org

Dogs find most new people and experiences exciting; maybe too exciting. Sometimes, this overexcitement causes a dog to bark. If a dog barks when receiving praise or pets, the Canine Coach will shift their focus to another dog that is relaxed and quiet. Over time, dogs learn that not barking results in pets and verbal praise. Dogs aim to please, and repetitive practice at Dogtopia will keep your dog happy and quiet at daycare, as well as at home.

Name Recognition

It is important for dogs to know and respond to their name. Whether you’re in the backyard, out in public, or your dog gets lost, it’s important for your dog to listen and respond when their name is called. Canine Coaches find a dog on the other side of the playroom and call out their name. If the dog runs to them, they give pets and praise. If the dog does not, the Canine Coach will work on name recognition with other play area games. Over time, dogs learn their name by repetition and positive praise.

Daycare for Your Dog

Dogtopia daycare offers incredible benefits for your dog and you, too! From casual training to socialization, your dog will learn and grow. Everyone loves a well-behaved dog, right? Let your dog learn through positive play!

Dogtopia of Bearden-Knoxville

5213 Homberg Drive Knoxville, TN 37919

865.622.2599

Dogtopia.com/Bearden-Knoxville

Imagine for a moment you’re building your dream house. What would be your first step? You would likely find a builder along with a blueprint or floorplan with various design options. Once you have approved the final schematics, your builder/contractor would lead his crew (carpenters, electricians, plumbers, etc.) throughout the entire building process. The end result would be a beautiful home where you can spend your life living and loving the ones important to you.

Is a financial plan any less important in building the foundation for your long-term goals? You would never hire a builder, tell him to construct a nice two-story home that’s comfortable, and “hope for the best.” Your home could look a thousand different ways to Sunday and be at odds with your family’s needs!

The same logic holds true for your finances. Putting a few dollars in your 401(k) is a good start, but there’s so much more. You can’t play the game of darts without knowing where the bullseye is. You can’t craft a financial plan without knowing your “bullseye.” So, what’s your target?

Better yet - do you have a financial plan? And if you do, are you on track?

Here’s the good news - you don’t have to do this on your own. My team of financial “general contractors” are ready to listen and guide you towards your own financial blueprint. Give us a call to learn more about developing your own personal financial blueprint!

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. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through SageSpring Wealth Partners. SageSpring Wealth Partners or dba teams are not registered broker/dealer and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

TRAVIS CULLMAN WEALTH TEAM

BUT FIRST, CONSULTATION!

BY JESSICA HOWARD

WE CAN’T TELL you how many times a new guest sits down and says, “Just do what you think.” No, and let us tell you why. Your stylist doesn’t know you yet. We aren’t about to give you a high maintenance haircut if you are a low maintenance person! We certainly don’t want you waking up the following morning frustrated with your new style. After all, the stylist’s signature is on your head, so we want to make sure it’s an amazing experience from start to finish - and on into the next day.

Why are consultations so important? We encourage our stylists to ask you - the guesta few questions before getting started with your hair service. This goes for both new and existing clients! Everyone gets a consultation so that everyone is on the same page. In fact, the consultation often begins on the phone with our front desk staff, because we want to make sure the proper time is reserved for your desired service.

New guests, here are some things we’d like to know: Do you shampoo your hair daily? How do you style your hair? Do you use hot tools or styling products? If so, what kind? This information helps stylists get to know your hair routine, which in turn helps them serve you during your hair appointment. The guest should use this time to ask the stylist questions also. We are here to show you easy solutions and proper products that will assist you. We know the stress that unruly hair can bring sometimes. Hello, East Tennessee hair... we are here for you!

Call or stop into one of our eight salon locations and schedule a consultation with one of our professionals.

Ross the Boss Salons

Forest Park • Oak Ridge • Fountain City

Powell • Center Park • Emory Road

Maryville • Morristown RosstheBoss.com

April 5, 6, 12 & 13 at 7:30 pm | April 7 & 14 at 2:30 pm

Pellissippi State Community College’s Clayton Performing Arts Center

Widely regarded as Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy and one of the masterpieces in the English language, King Lear explores domestic, political, and spiritual themes that transcend time and culture. Dysfunctional families dealing with aging parents and toxic sibling rivalry is as old as the Bible and as contemporary as some of our own stories. Political turmoil caused by poor leadership and callous ambition spans much of human history and holds its own in current events.

Reserved seats available or purchase tickets at the door. Suitable for ages 13 and up. The

Stylist Marissa consulting with Maddie

Stylist Emily consulting with Ashley

Pellissippi State Theatre Department

The Cabry Difference

WE WANT to be the best at what we do. Our main goal is to meet the needs of our customers with topquality cabinetry and functional, innovative designs. By striving to be on the cutting edge of our industry, Cabry Design & Cabinetry is known for our high level of attention to detail in our designs while providing a quality product and exceptional service.

A kitchen renovation is a major undertaking with countless decisions to be made. In our 18 years of designing kitchens in the Knoxville area, the Cabry Design team has developed a comprehensive design-build approach to our projects. Encompassing every step, from the first measure to the last piece of trim installed, we provide a thorough, managed process to make sure your dream kitchen is realized!

With every project beginning with our Client Focused Design Process, we ensure the end result will be the vision you have for your space. The experience and knowledge of our designers can help ease any stress and anxiety you might be feeling about one of your most important purchases. Our firm is not about developing our own “signature style.” We take our cues from you, ask questions to help guide the process, and take the lead with suggestions and direction when appropriate.

We know it sounds simple, but there is a difference. Many designers underestimate the value of listening, hearing, and then acting on behalf of a client’s needs. Some of our projects are driven by a collection of images, some by a single “big-picture” idea. Some clients know exactly what they want, while others need help bringing their goals into focus. Since the process yields the result, we remain flexible, and we tailor our creative tools and leadership methods to the unique conditions of each project.

What sets Cabry Design apart is not only the level of design, but

“We loved working with Cabry Design from start to finish! Very professional, timely, and focused on customer satisfaction. We love everything about our kitchen and would totally recommend them to anyone!” - D.S.

the attention to ALL of the details necessary to ensure your dream kitchen comes true. We provide comprehensive plans to ensure there are no unknowns or surprises, providing our contractors and installers with the “roadmap” they need to ensure the outcome as you intended.

We are here to make your dream kitchen a reality.

Cabry Design & Cabinetry

8705 Unicorn Drive, Suite 114 Knoxville, TN 37923 865.556.9419

CabryDesign.com

My Personal Journey

BY SCOTT, RELUCTANT BEGINNER WHO NOW LOVES YOGA

OUR MOVE to Knoxville had been challenging for my girlfriend and I both socially, professionally, and physically. While neither of us had adopted a regular exercise regime, I assumed it would happen eventually. But when? Resolutions had been made, gym memberships were purchased, and still we kept looking for something at least moderately physical that we could enjoy together. When she first asked me if I’d like to try yoga with her, my answer was a pretty quick, “Yeah - no.” She kept after me (as partners often do) and eventually convinced me to join her for a trial membership at Blue Ridge Yoga.

After my first class, I knew the practice of yoga could benefit my body. The class was informative and hands-on so that I understood how each pose benefited my body. The instructors were helpful and provided gentle feedback. Adjustments for different levels of flexibility, physical strength, and health were offered, and I quickly learned that yoga is

a “practice” - there is no right or wrong way to do it. Within a week, I could feel the difference in my body. By the end of the second week, I was hooked, and we decided to purchase longer memberships. Within a few weeks, my toes were in view. I hadn’t been able to touch my toes in years. Hello, toes!

I’m now well into my fourth year of regular yoga practice at Blue Ridge Yoga. And while my mind and body continue to benefit, the instructors and fellow yogis have assumed a special place in my heart and in our lives here in Knoxville. BRY isn’t just a place to practice yoga for me; it’s a caring community engaged in outreach, focused on self-care, and offering social support. I treasure the personal connections that I’ve made through the studio. I’ve truly found my tribe.

Blue Ridge Yoga

623 N Campbell Station Road Knoxville, TN 37934

865.288.3562

YogaKnoxvilleTN.com

Seniors: Have Fun and Stay Active with the Benefits of Exercise

COURTESY OF BPT

EXPERTS AGREE

that physical activity brings multiple benefits to your mind and body. If you wonder how being more active as you get older can help you live a happier, healthier life - and how to get started - taking small, simple steps to boost your activity can make a big impact.

“Age is just a number, and we’ll make sure it never slows you down, so why not find activities you love to do?” said Julie Logue, M.P.H., training manager at SilverSneakers. “You can ‘act your age’ by having the time of your life, whether you’re dancing, walking, or playing pickleball.”

Before starting any new exercise, it’s recommended to consult your healthcare provider.

A few benefits of exercise to inspire you:

Protect your bones and joints

Stronger muscles help protect your bones and joints. If you think lifting heavy weights

is the only way to strengthen your muscles, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. You can begin strength exercises by starting slowly, using little to no special equipment, and gradually improving your strength.

It’s best to seek classes or programs specifically designed for seniors, such as SilverSneakers by Tivity Health - the nation’s leading fitness program for older adults that offers in-person and virtual classes with the needs of seniors in mind. Find classes focused on building strength and flexibility, along with cardio exercises to get blood pumping.

Help prevent falls

About one in four Americans aged 65 and older will fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Exercise that builds strength and improves balance is one of the best ways to prevent falls and recover from a fall.

Strengthen your ankles, knees, and hips for a sturdy foundation and improve core

strength and upper-body posture to help you stay upright and steady.

Enjoy socializing

One valuable benefit is finding a class or community of people you enjoy spending time with. Whether you’re taking classes in person or online, you’ll know everyone else is also aiming to stay more fit and healthy. Taking classes together is a fun bonding activity that will help you stay motivated and may inspire you to create your own group for walking or doing activities together.

Improve mindfulness and reduce stress

Physical activity can reduce stress, help you stay more present throughout your day, and enjoy your life to the fullest. Classes offered by SilverSneakers include Tai Chi and Yoga, which are easy ways to help you stay more mindful and boost your overall well-being.

Getting started

SilverSneakers offers members a network of fitness locations. Workouts are offered at gyms, community centers, and other participating fitness locations nationwide.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, it may already include SilverSneakers. Learn more at SilverSneakers.com.

And the Winner of the Best Piece of Fitness Equipment is ...

BY RICHARD DOWDY, OWNER

ILOVE the fitness industry. It has brought me good health, enjoyable employment,

I started out working the register at the old Sports Unlimited store back in the early ’90s and eventually found my way to the local gym providing personal training. I then started selling fitness equipment part-time, and today my wife - who I also met at the gym - and I have been in business for 23 years owning and operating our own fitness equipment store here in West Knoxville.

One of the most frequent questions I get is, “What’s the best piece of fitness equipment?” I love it when I get asked this one! My response is invariably, “The one you will use!”

For years, people have told us story after story about buying something online or at a big box store and after getting it home, it just didn’t work out. (No pun intended!) I encourage our customers to think not only in regard to their current fitness needs, but also long term. We want them to get the most return on their investment by finding equipment they will enjoy using for years to come.

Many people have seen an exercise product flash across the screen that looked really great but after getting it home are disappointed because the equipment is uncomfortable and awkward to use. We always recommend that our customers try out various types of machines and brands of ellipticals, treadmills, home gyms, and bikes to find the best fit for them and their family. Often, customers purchase equipment that is completely different from what they had initially thought they wanted!

So the next time you are wondering what the best piece of fitness equipment is, remember, it is the one you are most likely to use now and in the future.

Come by anytime to see our high-quality equipment and to discuss your personal fitness goals. We are sure that we’ll have the best piece of equipment just for you!

Add Real Value to Your Home and to Your Life

THE KITCHEN is probably the hardest working room in your home. We all want it to be beautiful, but it’s where we cook, bake, gather, and store essentials like food, supplies, and pots and pans, so it has to be functional. A well-thought out kitchen has plenty of storage to keep countertops clear and is designed so you can quickly and easily find what you need and conveniently reach it.

ShelfGenie is the true turn-key leader in kitchen innovation

At ShelfGenie, we design, build, and install custom Glide-Out™ shelves for your existing cabinets and pantries. They increase storage by up to 50% and pull out their full depth so you can access the entire shelf front to back. Each shelf can hold up to 100 lbs and is made in America using high-quality materials and superior craftsmanship. We do not use one-size-fits-all, big box store substitutes.

Our process begins and ends with the homeowner

1. Our design consultant will get to know your exact needs during our free, in-home consultation and will provide you with a free 3-D design of your kitchen so you’ll see exactly what your new kitchen space will look like.

2. Your Glide-Out™ shelves will be manufactured in our very own manufacturing facility to your exact specifications.

3. Our licensed, professional installer will then install your order in one day. Finally, your designer will reach out to ensure you’re completely 100% satisfied.

Enjoy your innovative new kitchen

Turn frustration with your kitchen into joy. You can expect to increase storage, reduce clutter and wasted time looking for items, and avoid having to bend, twist, or reach into the backs of cabinets.

What our awesome clients have to say:

“Awesome folks to deal with. Great workmanship.”

- D.A., Knoxville

“We love the new shelves. They are truly life changing in the kitchen.”

- R.K., Knoxville

“Great improvement to what I had and very happy with the people I worked with.”

- S.O., Vonore

“I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new kitchen pull-out shelves. Very professional.”

- K.B., Powell

“Love my new pantry shelves! They are sturdy and beautifully installed. Great customer service and friendly folks.”

- M.M, Loudon

To learn more or to schedule your free consultation, call 865-409-1197 or visit ShelfGenie.com.

ShelfGenie®

865.409.1197

ShelfGenie.com

Not All Coatings Are Equal

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

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

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

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

• Unparalleled Durability: Polyurea withstands extreme pressure, heavy impacts, and spills, offering superior protection against common garage chemicals like gasoline and paint thinner. It boasts flexibility, is up to 20 times stronger than epoxy, and is UV-resistant with no

harmful VOCs. Importantly, it withstands high temperatures, preventing issues like hot tires lifting the coating.

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

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

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

PremierGarage relies on their expertise

and the experience of their manufacturers to produce the highest quality garage floor system on the market derived from the resinous floor industry’s research, testing, and knowledge. Your garage floor may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of home improvement, but it plays a vital role in aesthetics and functionality.

Their team is uniquely talented and qualified with 100+ years of combined experience with these resinous floor systems. They are a team of people that install concrete coatings as their core business. It is their primary focus, which means their integrity, consistency, and ongoing success is dependent upon their being the best at what they do.

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

PremierGarage

865.947.8686

PremierGarageKnoxville.com

FEST™

LUCKY KIDNEY RUN™

Live & Virtual Options for 6k run & 1 mile walk | Starts at 11am

THE 2024 Knox Shamrock Fest™ is the region’s premier, family friendly St. Patrick’s Day Festival with live Irish music, inflatables, face painting, balloon twisting, dancing, delicious food, and Irish whiskey & beer!

Lucky Kidney Run™ is a major fundraiser benefiting the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation. Join more than 200 walk ers and runners to bring awareness to this “silent” disease and support those that suffer from kidney disease - 100% of funds raised stay right here in East Tennessee! Please support their local mission of improving the lives of East Tennesseans with kidney disease - no donation or fundraising goal is too small!

Visit ETkidney.org for more information and to register for the race. Be sure to check out the photo gallery!

ET KIDNEY FOUNDATION

PROVIDES THESE IMPORTANT

LOCAL SERVICES:

Transportation to Dialysis

Now serving approximately 200 patients per month in a 15-county area.

Dental Assistance Program

A clean bill of health, including dental health, is required to be placed on the kidney transplant waiting list.

Nutritional Supplements

Free nutritional supplements to dialysis patients in 25 East Tennessee counties made possible by an annual grant from the Akima Club of Knoxville.

BY DANA PUMARIEGA, AGENCY MANAGER

AFTERBEGINNING my career 24 years ago as a Farm Bureau Agent in Farragut, I opened the Hardin Valley office in 2012. I have lived in Hardin Valley since 2004, so I love being able to provide insurance services for those in my own community. I feel fortunate to have been able to add staff that puts the same importance on customer service that I do. Let me introduce you!

With me since the get-go of the Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance office is Debbie Newman. As our customer service health specialist, Debbie has been (and is!) an excellent, knowledgeable, reliable staple to our office.

Courtnie Moore has 9 years of agent experience and a thorough understanding of Farm Bureau coverage options. She has worked in the insurance industry for 20 years providing patrons with top-notch, quality care services.

After being in the banking industry for 19 years, Karen Brooks is our newest representative who is able to provide quality customer support and insurance knowledge with a stellar attention to detail.

“Very pleased with our new company website. The whole team was a pleasure to work with. Highly recommend.”

- Lance Asti Limelight Landscape Lighting

And where would we be without 20-year Farm Bureau veteran and office manager Gail Mitchell, the “rock” of our office. With exceptional client relations and product information, Gail can always be found with a smile on her face!

I have the best staff with the best attitude about providing great care to our customers. We all take great pride in assisting and servicing their insurance needs. We call ourselves our “work family”… we love what we do and truly enjoy coming in and working together every day.

Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance would love the opportunity to share coverage options, features, and benefits with you. Please contact us for all your comprehensive insurance solutions.

Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance

10851 Hardin Valley Road Knoxville, TN 37932

865.247.6517

fbiTN.com

IN CONCERT • OPEN CHORD • MARCH 30TH

DAVID LOWRY OF HEARTBREAKER:

AMERICA’S TRIBUTE TO PAT BENATAR

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

QUESTION: WHAT is the difference is between a cover band and a tribute band?

According to David Lowry (head of Heartbreaker: America’s Tribute to Pat Benatar), the answer is, “A cover band is a band that gets together and... you can get away with playing it (a popular band’s songs) however you want. They’re not held to the same standard as a tribute band. When you go to see a tribute band, you’re expecting to really relive some of that nostalgia. So, you’re expecting them to look like that band, expecting them to sound like that band, expecting them to nail the song parts like that band.

“Our tribute band, Heartbreaker: America’s Tribute to Pat Benatar, is different in the sense that we really try to capture the live aspect of what Pat brings to her shows. We do the album song versions with a couple exceptions. But if you’ve ever seen Pat live, you know they improvise a lot. They hardly ever play the album version of a song. Neil Giraldo is constantly making up new guitar parts, playing solos differently.”

But does their “Pat Benatar” sound like the real deal live? David says, “Missy, our lead singer, nails Pat Benatar - the way she sounds. She has really captured the essence of Pat and just kills it, and she’s one of the hardest working musicians I’ve ever been with. So, they’re gonna see an authentic sounding Pat Benatar when they come to see our show and not just a woman who can hit the notes. I think that’s one of the defining things that separates us, we really do strive for the accuracy of the song itself. But we also have somebody who literally sounds like Pat Benatar. Missy really does sound like Pat. So, I got really lucky when I found her.”

As for who plays Neal “Spyder” Girardo (Pat Benatar’s guitarist husband)? David Lowry. Classically trained, David’s musical pedigree includes playing in touring bands around the world, earning the respect of none other than legendary R&B singer, Bobby Bland. David even worked for Prince. Yes. That “Prince.” David’s reputation for painstaking perfection at whatever he pursues is evident when he plays Girardo’s parts.

Heartbreaker: America’s Tribute to Pat Benatar is performing at Knoxville’s Open Chord on March 30th. Tickets are still available but are selling quickly.

Make It Easy on Yourself with Custom Shelf Storage

BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM

ONCE UPON a time, you wouldn’t think twice about perching on a stool to reach those high kitchen shelves or crouching in your bathroom to grasp an item under your sink. Today, it’s a different story. If you have mobility issues, you may be using those storage areas less and less. You love your home and aren’t ready to downsize. Now, you don’t have to. Get your cabinets back, and more, with the space experts at Shelf Help!

Celebrating seven years in business, Shelf Help specializes in sturdy and attractive custom roll-out shelving and organizers for your kitchen, bath, and pantry. We’re your neighbors in Knoxville - not a franchise, but locally owned and operated. Because we’re a small business, our customers save 50% or more when compared to national brands. Best of all, everything we do is custom tailored to you.

In the Kitchen…

Whether you have limitations in movement or are simply “vertically challenged,” pull-down units will provide effortless access to those hard-to-reach upper shelves in your kitchen cabinets. For help

managing heavy pots, pans, and skillets, a soft-close pot and lid organizer pull-out can be installed in lower cabinetry for clutter-free and easy-to-handle storage. And you no longer have to strain your eyes to see into those deep corner cabinets - we have a variety of solutions like a lazy susan, pull-out shelf, or corner half-moon shelf.

In the Bath…

Stop stooping in your bathroom to retrieve grooming products by installing a Salon Station with roll-out organizers for brushes, blowdryers, and other supplies. Or, try a powered vanity drawer that stores your plugged-in electric grooming appliances with an automatic shut-off switch when the drawer is closed. Under the sink, recover unused space around the plumbing with custom roll-out shelving, and try a removable basket to hold cleaning products.

In the Pantry…

From pull-outs to swing-outs, maximize your pantry with convenient rolling shelves that will store your canned items, dry goods, paper products and more. No matter the size of your pantry, you’ll be shocked at the amount of space you’ll gain after installing

custom shelving. And prepare to do away with cumbersome, door-mounted storage racks - you won’t need them!

Make your day-to-day living comfortable and your house fully usable with Shelf Help custom-designed roll-out shelves for your kitchen, pantry, or bath. Call us today for your free, no-obligation, in-home consultation. Our experienced design consultants will evaluate, design, and measure according to your lifestyle and unique needs, and our professional installers will provide thorough and competent service with a smile. Make it easy on yourself - call us for a free consultation today!

Shelf Help

865.675.5098

ShelfHelpTN.com

EVERY CHILD. EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD. A FULL LIFE.

“The people caring for me is what sticks out the most to me about Emerald. They want to see you succeed. A lot of people will push you to the side, but coming to Emerald, people really care.”

- Mateo Francisco, Emerald Youth alumnus

BY KAREN COPPOCK

MORE THAN 30 years ago, Emerald Avenue United Methodist Church started a summer program to reach out to young people in Knoxville’s Oakwood/Lincoln Park neighborhood. This ministry grew to become Emerald Youth Foundation, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit with the ambitious vision of making Knoxville a city where every child in every neighborhood can lead a full life.

“I have come that they might have life and have it to the fullest.” - John 10:10b

“Our mission is to raise up a large number of urban youth to love Jesus Christ and to help renew their communities,” said John Crooks, Emerald Youth’s Director of Marketing & Communications. John also provided some background information on the history of the ministry. “Steve Diggs, who’s our president and CEO, was hired as their [Emerald Ave UMC’s] summer intern, right out of college. It literally started with a kickball game in the church parking lot, asking neighborhood kids to play.”

The church decided to expand the

program beyond that summer session because Steve and the church leadership could see how God was working. “They made a commitment and stuck to it,” said John. “That was in the summer of 1988, and three years later, Emerald Youth Foundation was offi cially launched.”

From that initial summer outreach, Emerald Youth has grown to work with even more young people in Knoxville, mainly in inner-city neighborhoods. According to their website (EmeraldYouth. org), Emerald Youth has served more than 30,000 young people in Knoxville during the past 32+ years. Along with churches and other faith-based groups, Emerald Youth works with nearly 3,000 children, teens, and young adults in year-round programs.

Emerald Youth Foundation’s Impact:

• 80% of parents said their child has grown academically since participating with EYF

• 89% of EYF youth engaged in sports managed a healthy weight

“We are a faith-based Christian ministrythat is at the core of what we do,” said John. “The primary outcome areas that we focus on are faith, learning, and health. We like to say that relationships are wrapped up into all of those.”

• 80% of parents said their child has grown in their faith since participating with EYF

Faith

JustLead is Emerald Youth’s K-12 urban youth ministry that connects children (and their families) to neighborhood churches and other faith-based communities. They provide children with after-school care in safe spaces where they can learn more about God’s love, be discipled, and get help with homework. They also have snacks, play games, go on field trips, and participate in community service and local missional opportunities.

Learning

Emerald Youth’s Calling & Career ministry is another way to help ensure city young people succeed academically, offering four learning center locations for teens in grades 8-12. This program provides students with access to technology and tutoring, and they can get help with college and financial aid applications, learning life skills, and opportunities to learn about different career options.

Health

The Sports ministry is an essential part of the health portion of Emerald Youth’s mission. Emerald Youth is a community ministry partner with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), working together to help Knoxville’s young people play, be active, and learn leadership skills. Program experience levels range from beginner to competitive, and all levels are welcome. Led by trained staff and volunteers who strive to teach young people about good sportsmanship and how to have healthy food and

exercise habits in a God-honoring environment, Emerald Youth sports programs are also affordable.

The year-round program of leagues, teams, and clinics includes the following programs:

• Baseball

• Basketball

• Performance Training (weights and conditioning)

• Soccer

• Softball

• Swimming

• Volleyball

• Track & Field

• Wrestling

John noted that the sports programs are essentially year-round and added, “We are recruiting volunteers to serve in the organization in different ways. So whether as coaches or assistant coaches or scorekeepers or homework helpers, we’re always looking for folks to engage with us from a volunteer standpoint.” Their website lists numerous volunteer opportunities, and it also notes that, because of the nature of Emerald Youth’s work, volunteers and staff are required to have background checks before serving directly with youth.

Ways to Help:

• Volunteer

• Explore Job Openings

• Donate

• Prayer Breakfast - May 3

• Rick Barnes Golf Classic - September 23

• Legacy Dinner - Date TBD

• EmeraldYouth.org/GetInvolved

By integrating their faith, learning, and health programs - and through the relationships built through these areas - Emerald Youth focuses on growing youth into promising Godly leaders. The Emerald Youth’s 2022 Outcomes & Impact Report (latest year available), defines this type of leader as a person who is:

• On track to complete two years of post-secondary education or training;

• Confidently moving toward gainful employment and community leadership; and

• Showing evidence of a lifestyle with exemplary behaviors regarding academics, spiritual maturity, and health.

By partnering with parents and guardians to support their children to grow and thrive in healthy ways, Emerald Youth hopes to help Knoxville children have the opportunity for a full life. Through all of these activities, Emerald Youth strives toward its goal to develop enduring and transformative relationships with these young people and their families so they can in turn help renew their communities.

Emerald Youth greatly appreciates the generosity of their volunteers and donors. For more information about partnering with them, as well as their accountability and transparency resources, please contact them through their website at EmeraldYouth.org/donate or at 865-637-3227.

INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &

MAKER EXCHANGE

Visit the Curio at Maker Exchange and shop locally-made artwork from 150+ makers. This eighthandled vase is just one of many machine-assisted coil-built ceramic pieces by Garrett Durland. Stop by the Maker Exchange at 710 Clinch Avenue in downtown Knoxville between the Marriott and Tennessean Hotels, 865.637.4561, or online at MakerExchangeKnox.com.

MEADOW VIEW GREENHOUSES & GARDEN CENTER

Get your home ready for warmer weather with décor in fresh springtime colors. Add some whimsy with a wooden book stack with painted binding, ceramic bunnies with relief daisies, or printed metal table top butterflies - or get them all! Available at Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center, 9885 Highway 11E in Lenoir City, 865.986.7229, MeadowViewGreenhouse.com.

DECORATING DEN INTERIORS

This chaise evokes the relaxed elegance of the South of France and features a double latticework design, scooped high back, and never-rust cast aluminum construction that is finished in an architectural-grade powder coating that is exceptionally weather resistant. Available at Decorating Den Interiors | Kozar Design Team, 521 Lovell Road, Suite 205 in Knoxville, 865.392.6222, SandyKozar.DecoratingDen.com.

JUST FOR YOU

Spring has sprung at JFY! Colorful ribbed tanks, tees, and jeans have hit the floor, so stock up on these “perfect for layering” tanks in all the fun colors for spring and summer. You can tell when you walk in the store that JFY is definitely enjoying all the brightness this year! Come and see us in-store at Just For You, 10627 Deerbrook Drive in Knoxville, behind the new Weigel’s on Lovell Road, 865.288.7235, JFYbrand.com.

SHAE DESIGN STUDIO

This custom chair features a swivel glider base and is finished with a beautiful performance fabric of teal, cream, and gold. It is a must-see in the showroom, along with many other custom upholstery pieces available at Shae Design Studio, 9700 Kingston Pike, Suite 11 in Knoxville, 865.313.2656, ShaeDesigns.com.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN VINTAGE LUMBER

Distinctive, locally inspired wall art from reclaimed wood. Choose from in-store crafted designs or customize your own! Available at Smoky Mountain Vintage Lumber, 11330 Parkside Drive in Turkey Creek, 865.218.1363, WoodWithAStory.com. Open Thursday - Sunday, check website for store hours.

865LIFE®

Show your hometown pride with these fashion caps with logo cork appliqués from 865LIFE. Many caps, stickers, and t-shirts are available! Order online at 865life.com or check their Facebook and Instagram for Pop-up Shop locations around Knoxville and surrounding areas. 865LIFE - MORE THAN A NUMBER… IT’S HOME.®

DESIGN TIPS for a Beautiful and Functional Laundry Room

BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM

CAN YOU NAME

a task we all have in common that is never complete? Here’s a hint: Doing the laundry! While most of us consider it a necessary chore, at Closets by McKenry, we’ve witnessed “Wash Day Dreaders” become “Loadof-Laundry Lovers.” How? By bringing elegance and organization to their laundry rooms. Here are five ideas that will have you whistling while you work:

1. Customize a Countertop

Stop using the top of your washer or dryer as a work surface! Install a countertop in your laundry room that will give you the space you need for sorting, folding, stain removal, and more.

2. Add Rods Within Reach

It’s frustrating to search for hangers in your closet while holding an armful of fresh, clean clothes. Get a jump start on the task with a handy clothing rod - also perfect for items that need to air dry.

3. Include Ample Storage

Laundry detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, stain sticks… your list of essentials can add up. With a wide variety of cabinet finishes and hardware to match any décor, your laundry room supplies can be stored away in style.

4. Install the Sink You Never Knew You Needed

From messy projects (washing the dog, watering the plants) to clothing-savers (hand-washing delicates, rinsing bathing suits), with a laundry room sink you’ll stoop less and smile more.

5. Make Ironing Fun

Get rid of your bulky collapsible ironing board and install a convenient fold-down model that tucks away when not in use. Give your iron a custom space of its own and pressing your clothes will no longer be a pressing matter.

You’ll be looking for something to wash after you’ve designed a laundry room that is organized, functional, and easy on the eyes! To learn more, call the professionals at Closets by McKenry or stop by their 2,000-square-foot West Knoxville showroom.

Closets by McKenry

201 Center Park Drive, #1070 Knoxville, TN 37922 865.249.6382

ClosetsByMcKenry.com

No More Excuses to Not Love Your Garage

BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM

DESPITE THE BIG role your garage plays in your everyday life, it often receives little attention. This underrated room contains valuable floor space, witnesses your comings and goings, and serves as a significant entryway into your home. Why not make it a place you love? Here are three great reasons to upgrade your garage today:

1. No More Squandered Square Footage

Your garage is one of the largest rooms in your home, and it’s often the most cluttered and underused. Get items off the floor and out of your way with convenient overhead storage, and add slatwall to store things large and small within reach.

2. No More Cold Mornings

Are you tired of scraping frost off your vehicle parked outside because the garage is full of things, some that may not really matter? Free up space for yourself, and your car, by organizing garage necessities with cabinetry made-to-measure in East Tennesseeavailable in more than 50 finishes, including glossy acrylic.

3. No More Unchecked New Year’s Resolutions

If you can’t find a place in your home to get that new hobby under way, why not consider your garage? Epoxy polyaspartic flooring offers a safe, durable, and beautiful foundation for years of enjoyable activities, and custom countertops with LED lighting provide the perfect setting to let your creativity flow.

There are no more excuses for not loving your garage! Give yourself extra living space to enjoy this winter, and every season, throughout 2024. Call our team at Designer Garages for a no-hassle, free estimate, and let our talented designers help you add value to your home today.

There are no more excuses for not loving your garage! Give yourself extra living space to enjoy this spring, and every season, throughout 2024. Call our team at Designer Garages for a no-hassle, free estimate, and let our talented designers help you add value to your home today. Or to view our flooring, slatwall, cabinets, and more, visit the Designer Garages 2,000-square-foot West Knoxville showroom today.

Designer Garages

201 Center Park Drive, #1070 Knoxville, TN 37922 865.268.4868

DesignerGarages.com

Shining the Light on Your Home’s Exterior

BY HEATH MYRICK, OWNER OF LIGHTHOUSE OUTDOOR LIGHTING OF KNOXVILLE

BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED and

landscaped, you take great pride in your family’s home. But if you really want to showcase your property, I encourage you to discover how exterior home and landscape lighting can completely transform your outdoor living space.

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

Our lighting specialists are some of the best trained lighting designers in the industry today. Their expertise enables them to work with you to design that custom, tailored look to showcase your home’s unique architectural and landscape design features. Our installation team will install your exterior lighting to the highest industry standards, leaving the installation site

BEFORE AFTER

meticulously clean, as though we were never there. All we leave behind is a skillfully designed and installed lighting system that will surround your home and adjacent landscaping with the warm glow of elegance.

At Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting, our professionally trained staff will provide you with a free demonstration, a distinctive design, and top-notch installation. Upon completion, your satisfaction is guaranteed by a final walk through and fine tuning of your newly installed lighting system. Finally, every installation is backed with our one year, no-cost service plan, as well as optimal extended service agreements.

With an industry leader in landscape lighting located in Knoxville, why not let the professionals at Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting show you just how affordable exterior illumination can be and just how great your home can look after sunset?

Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting: Shining the light on your home’s unique architecture and landscaping.

Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting of Knoxville

11519 Kingston Pike, Suite 156 Knoxville, TN 37934 865.484.4011

Lighthouse-Lights.com/Knoxville

Volunteers: Crafting Beauty from Generosity at Random Acts of Flowers

EACHWEEK, an exceptional group of volunteers gathers in our workshop, armed with creativity and compassion, to infuse fresh life into floral donations from our local partners. Generously provided by local grocery stores, florists, event planners, and individuals, a new batch of flowers and vases arrives almost daily. Once destined for disposal, these blooms now find purpose in the skilled hands of our dedicated volunteers. These 400+ individuals are the unsung heroes of Random Acts of Flowers Knoxville, generously donating their time and talent to collect, arrange, and deliver these floral gifts to local healthcare facilities.

“These flowers would end up in the trash, but we get to recycle them and pass them on, and it’s just such a wonderful, beautiful cycle.”

As they work, the volunteers pour their love and positive energy into every bouquet they create. Their dedication goes beyond arranging flowers; it’s about creating moments of beauty and connection for those who receive them. Each bouquet becomes a symbol of hope - a reminder that kindness can bloom even in the most unexpected places.

“The workshop is like a beehive of happiness - each week, every day,” said Debbie Fettig, Program Manager at RAF. “Getting to see all our volunteers making bouquets and making friendsit’s just a joyous time. I love flowers, and I love making people happy, and that’s what our mission is all about.”

The transformative power of these floral arrangements extends far beyond their physical beauty. For recipients, receiving a bouquet is about more than just flowers - it’s a tangible expression of care and support during challenging times. Whether it’s a patient in a hospital room, a resident in a nursing home, or a veteran in a rehabilitation center, these bouquets brighten their day and lift their spirits.

“I love flowers,” said Ellen Anderson, a RAF volunteer of five years. “Getting to use my creativity is wonderful, but the real reason I volunteer is the mission. It’s the sense that there are hundreds of people every week who are getting a lift from what we do. These flowers would end up in the trash, but we get to recycle them and pass them on, and it’s just such a wonderful, beautiful cycle.”

Random Acts of Flowers Knoxville is grateful for the dedication and passion of our volunteers who breathe life into each bouquet. Their commitment to spreading joy and kindness exemplifies the spirit of our organization and serves as a beacon of hope for all those we touch.

To learn more about Random Acts of Flowers Knoxville and how you can support our mission, please call us at 865-6339082, email us at info@RAFKnoxville.org, or visit our website at RAFKnoxville.org.

Using Your Time in the Wilderness

Rushing through the wilderness phases of our lives places us at risk for missing out on the reflection and contemplation required to answer life’s most important questions.

BY DR. JIM BAILEY

RECENTLY, I MET with a prospective client who was uncertain whether working with me would provide the answers she was seeking. A series of difficult events had collided like a perfect storm in her life, and she was struggling to get her bearings. She began by telling me she was uncertain whether she was doing the type of work she was made for but went further to explain that much of her life felt uncomfortable or unfamiliar. While most of the larger things she usually used to introduce herself to strangers were unchanged - happily married, two children, with the same company for several yearsshe still felt a bit “lost” in her own life.

Feeling lost or disoriented is something every human being experiences, though most of us never sum up the courage to ask someone if she or he has felt that way. At some point, everyone goes through a

time where they feel lost or in-between. Because I like to hike in remote places and have occasionally wandered off the wellmarked trail, I refer to these times as “being in the wilderness.” It’s not that you’re fully lost, but you aren’t in a place that feels emotionally familiar or “safe” either.

Some people experience being in the wilderness as disorienting, very uncomfortable, or even frightening. Our lives are not what they once were, with all our familiar ways of thinking about things, nor are we at the “next” place, where the new ways and patterns of our lives are part of our daily routines. We are in-between.

Being immersed in a world of instant gratification we long for instant relief. An author once described being in the wilderness or in-between as being like a trapeze artist, where we have let go of the trapeze bar and are now in mid-air and not yet been grasped by the “catcher” on the other side. We’re disconnected from one certainty but not yet connected with the next certainty,

so we float, vulnerable, between the two places. We grasp, sometimes frantically, for the bar of certainty that floats just beyond our vision or reach.

But the tension we feel when we’re in the wilderness can provide something that’s essential for our personal growth and development - the impetus to ask the right questions. While all human beings seek security and comfort, being secure and comfortable isn’t a good formula for personal growth - just as unplowed soil isn’t likely to yield an abundant crop. Wilderness forces us to dig and ask deeper questions that often have life-changing answers.

I sometimes have my clients who feel lost in the wilderness write down the more unsettling feelings and questions they’re experiencing. They often return with things like: “Why does my work feel pointless?” “Why are my relationships unfulfilling?” “What’s missing from my life?” or “Am I who I want to be?” All are profound existential questions that every person might experience but would only seek to answer if their present situation is uncomfortable, unsettled, or painful.

As a career coach, I recognize that our careers or, more specifically, our vocations are only one piece of a larger quilt that makes up our identities - who we are. And it’s who we are that should, to a large degree, determine what we choose to do with our lives.

Being in the wilderness will probably never be comfortable for an average person. But our time in the wilderness offers us opportunities to explore and identify in better detail where we want to go, what we want to accomplish, and what the essential qualities or characteristics we want in our lives will be when we “arrive” at our next place. Rushing through the wilderness phases of our lives places us at risk for missing out on the reflection and contemplation required to answer life’s most important questions.

In many ways, the wilderness is a gift given to the person who wants to be wise about taking the next steps in their career or life path.

I’ve walked beside many clients and friends who are experiencing time in the wilderness. Having been there a few (too many?) times myself, I’m familiar with the terrain and the trail markers that you must experience to recognize. (Someone who has been lost better understands the value of a guide.) If you find yourself in the wilderness, reach out to a friend who’s been there or, if you’d like, give me a call.

RICKEY MEDLOCKE LYNYRD SKYNYRD LIVES ON

IN CONCERT WITH ZZ TOP • THOMPSON-BOLING ARENA • MARCH 15TH

IF ONE WERE to look up the definition of “southern rock,” you just might see a picture of the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Formed in 1964 in Jacksonville, Florida, the very name of the band instantly brings to mind classic rock anthems, tragedies, and musical legacy.

The anthems? They would be songs like “Gimme Three Steps,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Saturday Night Special,” and (often yelled by drunken patrons around the country at bands of all genres) their classic hit, “Free Bird.”

Tragedies? It started with the 1977 plane crash that took the lives of Ronnie Van Zant, band founder, backup singer, Cassie Gaines, and relatively new band vocalist and guitarist, her brother, Steve Gaines. More recently, the band’s guitarist and last surviving original member, Gary Rossington, passed away. In the current Lynyrd Skynyrd line up, Rossington was replaced by Damon Johnson, former guitarist for Alice Cooper and Thin Lizzy.

As for Lynyrd Skynyrd’s musical legacy, that was solidified with the band’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. It’s been reported that as of last year, the band has sold an astonishing 28 million records in the United States alone.

The legendary band will be in concert at Knoxville’s Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center with that little band from Texas, ZZ Top, on Friday, March 15th. It was to chat about this show that I connected with Skynyrd’s long-time guitarist, Rickey Medlocke, who first played in the band in 1971-1972. He was also a guitarist for his legendary southern rock band Blackfoot, who is best known for its hit “Highway

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

Song.” In 1996, Rossington asked Medlocke if he would rejoin Skynyrd. He accepted the invitation and has been with the band ever since. Though he was not inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Lynyrd Skynyrd, as a proud Lakota Sioux and Cherokee, he was inducted into the Native American Music Hall of Fame in 2008.

At the beginning of our conversation, Medlocke was asked about his guitar collection and guitar of choice.

“You know, I’ve got an original old Explorer that I play, and I’ve actually got a prototype reverse body Firebird that was one of about nine or 10 made and then the production models came out, so I got it on the road playing it. I’ve got another reverse Firebird - a Firebird V - sorry, a Firebird III. It’s on the road. I’m playing it. I got Les Pauls up the ying yang.”

Shifting to this year’s Skynyrd tour, Medlocke talks about his friend and replacement for Rossington, guitarist Damon Johnson.

“It’s been a real honor and pleasure having him come in at a time when we were just really beside ourselves, you know? It’s been almost a year now since we lost Gary, and I’m still not real settled. I still have problems with it. And you know what? This is going to be something that’s going to take me quite a few years to ever really settle with, because I knew him when we were teenagers. I played with him in the band in the early years for two-and-a-half going on three years as a drummer and then, all of a sudden to come back in ‘96. Now I’m going on 30 years I’ve been back with the band. He was a constant with me, he was there. And I was like, ‘God, he’s never gonna go nowhere. You know, he’ll

be with me until the last.’ I promised him - I said, ‘Gary, I’ll be with you to the last note of ‘Free Bird’ is struck.’ And now it’s kind of surreal, you know that. But I know he’s there in spirit with us. I can’t say enough about Damon. I mean, he has come in at a time when it was really difficult. And he has just really put a shining light on it, you know, and he’s done an incredible job.”

Medlocke then shared what Knoxville fans can expect from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s and ZZ Top’s Knoxville show this month.

“We (Skynyrd and ZZ Top) hooked up last year together, and we did several months out - we did from July and October together. It’s always good to be with Billy and Frank and company. Our crew got along together with their crew, we got along together with each band. I mean, it was a camaraderie that was just absolutely beautiful. And it was so successful in terms of ticket sales and everything that we decided that we should just continue this, because you got two of the greatest classic bands of all time coming into an arena, and there shouldn’t be no problem in people getting to see this. So, here we come!”

There is much more to this fascinat ing interview, and you can watch it all on Boomerocity.com or listen to it on your favorite source for podcasts. Just search for “Boomerocity.”

Randy’s first interview was at the age of 13 with none other than Col. Tom Parker. Thirtysix years later, he founded Boomerocity.com and has since then launched its podcast and YouTube channel. He has conducted well over 400 interviews with some of the most interesting people in music.

Photo courtesy MarcoComettoPhoto.com

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

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

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

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

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

YOUR REPAIR RIGHTS

BY KEN MANNS, OWNER

I’MSIMPLY a guy that can fix and paint cars that opened his own shop to best serve repair customers. I never dreamed that one of the most important things I needed to learn would be legal terminology and Tennessee law. My now “continuing education” has been focused on insurance requirements and restrictions in order to better serve our community.

I honestly had no idea the extent of influence insurance adjusters had on the repair process until I was faced with it - daily. Unfortunately, many insurance companies approach repairs solely from a cost saving viewpoint rather than what the manufacturers recommend in terms of safety standard replacement parts, etc. I also strongly believe that in order to fix vehicles properly, my shop needs state-of-the-art equipment, and my employees should be paid well for their know-how and experience, along with being continuously trained and educated. Excellence and integrity doesn’t always come cheap!

Because I choose to use the proper procedures and parts that all manufacturers recommend, some insurance companies are trying extremely hard to direct customers away from Local Guys Collision. I have now spent a lot of time and resources learning how to stand up for the rights of our repair customers, as well as my shop. Many customers aren’t even aware of all the behind-the-scenes insurance challenges we are faced with during the repair process. The habit of insurers steering customers to “select” shops is not only immoral, but it’s also illegal. You have the right to select your own repair facility in the state of Tennessee. I repeat, you have the right to select your own repair facility in the state of Tennessee.

Since opening more than two years ago, Local Guys Collision has strived to offer the best in vehicle repairs and to create the best workplace for its employees. Our services, paint, and replacement parts are first-rate, and our employees are appreciated for the hard work they put in day after day. I believe that by providing this environment, the customer ends up receiving a much better product.

This is the local experience I am trying to bring back into the automotive repair industry.

Local Guys Collision

5718 Kingston Pike

Knoxville, TN 37919 865.465.6225

LocalGuysCollision.com

Flying In or Out of Knoxville?

BEHIND MCGHEE TYSON Airport’s security gate checkpoint is a Knoxville museum! The 29th Annual Arts in the Airport features contemporary 2- and 3-dimensional artwork from regional artists in the most visited site in the area through April 8, 2024. All works are available for sale at knoxalliance.store/product-category/airport. Thank you for your support of our local artists!

SPRING

● See the newest in home improvement products & services

●

● The latest from floor to roof, patio to pool, inside & out

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

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

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

WHEN SHARON Anderson began remodeling their Briarcliff home in Oak Ridge, she seriously considered replacing the well-worn original hardwood flooring located in her kitchen, foyer, and back hallway. She did some research and looked at several samples but couldn’t find anything she liked as well as the Bruce solid wood flooring with beveled edged boards of varying widths that the builder had chosen and installed when the house was built in 1983.

The designer she was working with, Michele Hunley, suggested that Sharon contact the owners at European Fine Hardwood Floors. After Valera Tomescu and his wife, Svetlana, came out for a free estimate consultation, Sharon remembers being “very impressed with them, and I especially liked the idea of the dustless Bona System they use.”

With the restoration underway, Sharon was extremely pleased with the European Fine Hardwood Floors outside vacuum system. “We did not have to cover counters and furnishings in adjoining areas to protect them from dust because there was absolutely ZERO dust!” recalls Sharon. She also felt comfortable with the Tomescu crew in her home as “their work is impeccable, and they are persons of great personal integrity, which means a lot to me.”

Sharon was delighted with the outcome. “The refinishing project was an absolute success with the work being completed to our highest level of expectation. We had to have a few boards replaced because of some water damage from the dogs’ water bowls, and Valera matched the original floor exactly. The finished results were amazing! The floors are beautiful, and I am so happy I did not have them replaced.”

Since her own experience working with Valera and Svetlana was “top notch,” Sharon recommended European Fine Hardwood Floors

to friends who wanted to refinish existing hardwoods that had been covered by carpet for more than 50 years. They were extremely pleased with Valera’s work, too.

“I could not give European Fine Hardwood Floors a higher recommendation,” said Sharon. “I would not hire or recommend any other company to anyone needing flooring services. They are the best! Our remodeling contractor, Marshall Sheldon - who also built this home - said he thought the floors looked even better than when they were new!”

If you are ready to restore the beauty of your hardwood flooring, call European Fine Hardwood Floors. With their years of skilled craftsmanship, long list of delighted clients, and tried-and-true sustainable Bona products, they offer the highest quality standards in the refinishing industry.

European Fine Hardwood Floors

Steps to Start Each Day Strong

HOW YOU BEGIN each day affects more than whether you make it to work on time. In fact, those early morning hours are often the foundation for your entire day.

Set yourself up for success with these tips to help you maximize your mornings. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, starting the day the right way can help you power through your to-do list.

Wake Up On Time

Set your alarm for a reasonable hour that gives you ample time to get ready for the day ahead. If you have a commute or children or pets who need attention, be sure to factor in time for unexpected events like traffic jams or accidents. Avoid setting your alarm early and hitting snooze repeatedly; the quality of sleep you’ll add is poor and you’ll likely end up feeling more tired than if you’d just risen with the alarm.

Get Your Body Moving

Even a light workout is a great way to rev up for a new day. Prioritizing your health to start the morning can put you in a healthier mindset. Completing a workout before the day is even fully underway gives you something to be proud of, which helps boost your mental well-being. What’s more, an early workout gets your blood pumping, which supports stronger cognition and produces more energy.

Treat Yourself

It’s never too early to give yourself a little TLC, and a delicious coffeebased drink is a great way to perk up your morning with a tasty treat. The best indulgent coffee beverages start with quality coffee. Consider options from Eight O’Clock Coffee, which has selected and roasted high-quality, 100% Arabica coffee for more than 100 years. The rich, smooth flavor means you can drink it black, but it’s also the perfect base for a decadent latte with maple and vanilla or a classic iced caramel macchiato.

Establish a Self-Care Routine

While you’re still working toward being fully awake, a routine that lets you dive into daily preparations on autopilot can be helpful. Making time to take care of yourself can give you greater confidence to tackle the day, so find a pattern that fits and run with it. Aside from basic hygiene, take time to moisturize your skin and apply sunscreen. Also build in time to focus on your mental health, whether you make some notes in a gratitude journal or meditate to manage stress.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Countless studies support the benefits of eating a nutritious breakfast. It’s good for your metabolism and digestive health. It also gives your body the fuel it needs to help you push through the day. You’re likely to think faster and be a more effective problem-solver when your body has proper nourishment. Eating early in the day also affects your mood; you’re less likely to be irritable if you’re not hungry.

Find more inspiration to perk up your mornings at eightoclock.com.

Salted Caramel Macchiato Iced Coffee

Ingredients:

1/2 cup Eight O’Clock Caramel

Macchiato Coffee, chilled

1 cup milk

1/2 cup ice

Squeezable caramel sauce

1 pinch sea salt

Directions:

Stir together chilled coffee and milk. Pour over ice into glass.

Drizzle caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt.

Maple Vanilla Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups milk, divided

• 1/2 cup strong-brewed Eight O’Clock

French Vanilla Coffee

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Ground cinnamon, to taste

Directions:

In microwave, heat 1 cup milk.

Pour coffee into mug and, using milk frother, top with warm milk.

Stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, to taste.

Using milk frother, foam remaining milk then add to mug.

DAVE MASON TRAFFIC JAM TOUR & MORE

IN CONCERT • BIJOU THEATRE • APRIL 2ND

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

CLASSIC

ROCK enthusiasts

certainly know who Dave Mason iseither by name or by song. By name, you know him by blasting onto the rock and roll scene in 1967 with band mates Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood in a band they called Traffic. The band’s hits included “Dear Mr. Fantasy” (more about that song in a moment) and “Feelin’ Alright?” Not surprisingly, the groundbreaking band went on to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

Mason eventually left the band for solo work and, for a brief period, recording and touring with Fleetwood Mac. The most notable hits from Mason’s solo career are “Only You Know and I Know,” “We Just Disagree,” and “Let It Go, Let It Flow,” among others.

Mason still actively records and tours. On the former, he re-recorded “Dear Mr. Fantasy” with blues titan Joe Bonamassa for his soon-to-be-released album, A Shade of Blues . As for the latter (touring), the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer is performing at Knoxville’s Bijou Theatre on April 2nd. It was in support of the upcoming show and album that Mason chatted with me from his home in Hawaii.

Regarding the new album, A Shade of Blues , Mason shared, “Well, there’s that track, ‘Dear Mr. Fantasy’ is on it, in a release that I’ll be putting out. (Released in November 2023, find it on YouTube) I put together this new album called A Shade of Blues, which we’re trying to see if we can get somebody interested to release it. If not, I will do it myself. It’s pretty cool like I said, there’s some things on there that I put on previous CDs that I did. But I put a collection of what, you know, sort of as blues.

It’s not strict blues, as you can see with this release that I just put out with Joe, which it’s a great version.”

Mason explained that as far as the tour goes, he is “keeping the legacy of Traffic alive” with his band - many of whom, like John Sambataro, have been with him for decades. Mark Stein of Vanilla Fudge fame is also a part of the touring band, so the set list is a mixture of Mason’s solo releases, Traffic tunes, and other beloved songs of that era.

On a fluke, I asked Mason about the urban legend that he was the one who turned his late friend, Jimi Hendrix, on to the Bob Dylan song “All Along the Watchtower.” He corrected the record, so to speak.

“No, I’m not responsible for it. We were just together. We went over to some friend’s apartment to hear - they had an advanced copy of John Wesley Harding. So, we just were like, ‘Yeah, great new Dylan album. Let’s go listen,’ when I was thinking was probably one Sunday afternoon. So, I guess some recorder was there with that song and we were in the studio a few days later, recording it.”

With a life so embedded into the key moments and songs of classic rock and roll, it only stands to reason that Mason should have a book, right? He chuckles when he talks about how that came to be.

“I got badgered into doing a book. I got pestered into it - between the fans and my wife. So, we finally - it’s been, gosh, just over two years. (His wife corrects from another room “three years!”) I had somebody who wrote it. So, I had somebody finally that stepped up that wanted to help - mostly for me it was for somebody that was going to do the research for the when, what, where. I didn’t keep a

diary, so somebody had to do a lot of research - times, places.

“Hopefully, it’s pretty much done. I’m just trying to get some photographs cleared. I had some... from Linda, Linda Eastman, Linda McCartney, who came to the ‘Traffic’ cottage with me before she married Paul. So, there’s Traffic pictures in the one and then there’s a classic - would have been Hendrix when she was with us.”

Turns out there are a lot of details that have gone in to putting this book together. Wrapping up his point, Mason concluded, “I just finally got the ones with me with - from the Traffic ones and the pictures of me with McCartney doing ‘Listen to What the Man Said’ in the studio. They’re all trying to put all the places where I grew up. There’s a lot of photographs in the book, hopefully, but they go with the story.”

At press time, there are still tickets available for Dave Mason’s show at the Bijou Theatre. You can also pre-order his book due out this May, Only You Know & I Know, available on Amazon and elsewhere.

There is much more to this interviewgetting Atlanta’s Key to the City and the amazing number of classic hits he played a part on, plus more on the new album - that can be heard on Boomerocity.com, YouTube, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Randy’s first interview was at the age of 13 with none other than Col. Tom Parker. Thirty-six years later, he founded Boomerocity.com and has since then launched its podcast and YouTube channel. He has conducted well over 400 interviews with some of the most interesting people in music.

MARCH

THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

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

MARCH 8

Soundscapes at the KMA featuring Kimberlye McKinney at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 6:30 pm.

Cactus Flower at the Knoxville Theatre Downtown at 7 pm. Shows run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through the 24th.

Ice Bears vs Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs Pink in the Rink at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm. Sarah Jarosz at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 9

11th Annual Home & Garden Show at the Knoxville Expo Center from 10 am to 4 pm. Also the 10th from 11 am to 4 pm.

35th Annual Ijams River Rescue along the Tennessee River from 10 am to 1 pm. For info visit Ijams.org. Severe weather date is March 16th.

WDVX KidStuff Live with Y’uns Jugband at WDVX (301 S. Gay Street) from 10 to 11 am. Free!

Ice Bears vs Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs Puck-Man at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Drivin N Cryin at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Chicago Nights with Jason Scheff at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

MARCH 10

Daylight saving time begins - spring forward

Second Sunday Art Activity at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm. Hands-on art for K-6th grade.

Steven Curtis Chapman at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 11

Knox County Schools Spring Break through the 15th

MARCH 14

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Dvorak & Tchaikovsky at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 15th.

MARCH 15

Knoxville Flea Market at Chilhowee Park from 2 to 6 pm. Also the 16th from 10 am to 6 pm and 17th from 10 am to 4 pm. Free admission and parking.

Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7 pm.

Ice Bears vs Fayetteville Marksmen Ink in the Rink at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Jonathan Richman at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 16

Birding Basics at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8 to 11 am.

Family Day at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 11 am to 3 pm. Free arts activities and family entertainment!

Knox St. Patrick’s Parade along Gay Street at 1 pm.

Dan + Shay at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7 pm.

Laura Jane Grace at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Marc Broussard at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Sunset Frog Walk at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 7:30 to 9:30 pm.

MARCH 17

St. Patrick’s Day

Knox Shamrock FestTM at World’s Fair Park from 1 to 5 pm. Family friendly festival with live Irish music, Irish dancing, delicious food, and Irish whiskey & beer. Lucky Kidney RunTM at 3 pm. Benefiting the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation, ETkidney.org.

East Tennessee Bluegrass Association

Monthly Jam at Ijams Nature Center from 2 to 5 pm.

Four Leaf Peat at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 19

Mosaic Hearts Workshop at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm.

Knoxville Jazz Orchestra’s Jazz at the Emporium with Greg Tardy at 7 pm.

Spring Equinox Sunset Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 7:30 to 9 pm. Registration required.

MARCH 20

First day of spring

Dine & Discover with Bobbie Crews at the Knoxville Museum of Art from noon to 1 pm. Boundless: Artists in the Archives featuring Amythyst Kiah at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 6 pm.

Ijams Sunset Series: World Storytelling Day at Ijams Nature Center at 7 pm.

MARCH 21

Anon(ymous) at the Clarence Brown Theatre at 7:30 pm. Shows through March 30th. Visit ClarenceBrownTheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

Big Ears Festival in downtown Knoxville through March 24th, BigEarsFestival.org.

MARCH 22

Appalachian Ballet Company’s Cinderella at Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7 pm. Also the 23rd at 2 pm.

Gabriel Iglesias at the Civic Coliseum at 8 pm.

MARCH 23

March Tree Walk at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 am to noon. Spring Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 10 am to noon. Registration required.

Ice Bears vs Birmingham Bulls Legends Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 24

Ice Bears vs Quad City Storm Superhero Night/Kid Takeover at the Civic Coliseum at 5 pm.

MARCH 25

Banff Mountain Film Festival at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm. Also the 26th and 27th.

March Full Moon Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Registration required.

MARCH 26

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 27

REO Speedwagon with Rick Springfield at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.

MARCH 28

Avenged Sevenfold at Thompson-Boling Arena at 6:30 pm. Ari Shaffir at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 29

Knox County Schools closed - holiday

Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure at the Civic Auditorium at 6 pm. Also the 30th at 10 am and 2 pm.

Ice Bears vs Huntsville Havoc Smokies Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 30

Easter Eggstravaganza at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 1 to 4 pm.

Pete Davidson at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm.

Ice Bears vs Huntsville Havoc Country/OffRoad Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

APRIL 1

Knox County Schools closed - holiday

Dogwood Trails & Open Gardens through the 30th. Visit DogwoodArts.com for details. Hike-a-Thon benefiting the TennGreen Land Conservancy through April 30th.

See Campaigns.TennGreen.org for info.

APRIL 2

Broadway at the Tennessee Theatre: To Kill a Mockingbird at 7:30 pm. Shows through April 7th.

Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

APRIL 3

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Bach’s Concerto for Violin and Oboe at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 7 pm. Also the 4th.

APRIL 4

Sam Hunt at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:30 pm.

APRIL 5

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

HISTORIC

Jackson Square

209 Jackson Square, 37830

Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm

Babe, The Sheep Pig by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre at 7 pm. Shows through April 21st. Visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com for showtimes and tickets.

Mark Normand at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

WordPlayers King Lear by William Shakespeare at the Pellissippi State’s Clayton Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm. Also the 6th at 7:30 pm, 7th at 2:30 pm, 12th & 13th at 7:30 pm, and 14th at 2:30 pm.

Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

APRIL 6

Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk in Market Square from 8 am to 5 pm. Awards ceremony at 7 pm.

UT Gardens Spectacular Spring Plant Sale at UT Gardens from 9 am to 2 pm.

Preview sale for members on April 5th.

Covenant Health Kids Run in downtown Knoxville at 5:30 pm. Covenant Health 5K at 7 pm. For info visit KnoxvilleMarathon.com.

Ice Bears vs Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

RC Racing Night: The Chilly 500 at the Civic Coliseum at 6 pm.

Bert Kreischer at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7 pm.

Saturdays 10 am - 2 pm

Cowboy Bebop Live at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s A Rodgers & Hammerstein Celebration at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

APRIL 7

Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay Races in downtown Knoxville at 7:30 am. For info visit KnoxvilleMarathon.com.

Hikes & Blooms at Norris State Park River Bluff Trail at 10 am. Registration required at DogwoodArts.com/ WellnessPrograms.

APRIL 9

Knoxville Jazz Orchestra’s Monk’s Mood with Eric Reed at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

APRIL 8

Spring Tree Walk at the Knoxville Botanical Garden from 9 to 10:30 am. Registration required at DogwoodArts.com/ WellnessPrograms.

Dogwood Arts Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 10 am to noon. Registration required at DogwoodArts.com/ WellnessPrograms.

All event dates and times subject to change.

10 AM − 5 PM

March 16

Powell Branch Library

March 22-23

Farragut Branch Library

April 13

Karns Branch Library

April 27

Sequoyah Branch Library

Tennessee Theatre: KNOXVILLE’S GRAND

ENTERTAINMENT PALACE

THE MAGNIFICENT Tennessee Theatre first opened its doors on October 1, 1928, and was hailed as “the South’s most beautiful theatre.” When the first patrons stepped inside downtown’s “movie palace” to see their favorite stars on the silver screen, they paid only 40 cents for matinees and 60 cents for evening shows. (Children paid only 10 and 15 cents.)

Designed by Chicago architects Graven & Mayger, the theatre has a Spanish-Moorish style interior that incorporates elements from all parts of the world: Czechoslovakian crystals in the Frenchstyle chandeliers, Italian terrazzo flooring in the Grand Lobby, and Asian influences in the carpet and drapery patterns. It was one of the first public places in Knoxville to have air conditioning.

Its 95-year history includes highs and lows, from when movies reigned as the chosen form of entertainment to the decline and uncertain future of downtown. Periodic closings in the late 1970s gave way to glimpses of a brighter outlook when the theatre was purchased in 1981 by James A. Dick. The theatre then began its gradual shift in programming from a single-screen movie theater to a multi-use performing arts venue, which prolonged its existence but exaggerated its many shortcomings.

In 1996, the Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation, a nonprofit organization, was founded with the purpose of preserving, maintaining, and operating the theatre. The foundation’s board of directors was responsible for overseeing and raising funds for restoration and renovation of the building, which began in June 2003. The former movie palace reopened on January 15, 2005, as a world-class performing arts center - the result of a $30 million renovation and restoration project funded through public and private donations.

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places and honored as the Official State Theatre of Tennessee, today’s Tennessee Theatre has something for everyone: classical music, vintage films, dance, Broadway, and stellar performances by today’s hottest musicians and yesterday’s favorites. Local arts organizations such as the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and Knoxville Opera use the Tennessee Theatre throughout the year. The Tennessee Theatre has a full-time operations staff of 21, hundreds of parttime staff, and uses Knoxville-based employees of Live Nation for booking and marketing its concerts and Broadway productions.

To find out more about the Tennessee Theatre, attend a performance, support financially, or sign up for their newsletter, visit TennesseeTheatre.com.

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.

THE BIG EARS FESTIVAL BRINGS TOGETHER

ARTISTS AND MUSIC LOVERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD FOR AN EXHILARATING, UNFORGETTABLE FOUR DAYS OF MUSICAL ADVENTURE, DISCOVERY, AND FUN.

MARCH 21 – 24, 2024

BIG EARS collaborates with artists, audiences, and communities to create joyful, meaningful, and transcendent cultural experiences that defy boundaries, fuel curiosity, ignite the spirit, and nourish the soul.

Described as “one of the most quietly earth-shattering, subtly luminous festivals the world over” by the Oxford American and “one of the world’s greatest music bashes” by The New York Times, the Big Ears Festival—the flagship program of the organization—has established itself over the past decade as one of the most exciting and imaginative cultural gatherings anywhere. The festival brings a Who’s Who of acclaimed iconoclasts, innovators, and luminaries together with inspired younger artists making fresh and new creative work.

The Big Ears Festival takes place throughout downtown in more than a dozen venues: historic theaters, intimate clubs, majestic churches, pocket parks, galleries, and repurposed industrial spaces, museums, galleries, and clubs—with pop-up events and performances, exhibitions, films, literary readings, workshops, markets and talks taking place in cafes, bars, hotels,

restaurants, in alleyways and other nooks and crannies. The festival experience is full of surprises. As one journalist wrote after attending, “Knoxville has the most venues with good sound within walking distance of any place in America.” Performance locations are interspersed among a vibrant collection of restaurants, bars, and shops, offering an unparalleled festival experience for artists and audiences alike.

A festival pass offers access to all publicly announced performances—enabling festival goers to not only see familiar artists that they know and love, but also to explore the music of artists with whom they are not already familiar.

Big Ears draws robust contingents of both Tennessee residents and visitors from around the world who come together to form a shared community energized by joy, discovery, and engagement. To add context and promote access, Big Ears programs an array of community events during the festival that bring world-class artists into collaborations with Knoxville’s diverse creative community.

With a very rare exception, everything— all the venues, along with Knoxville’s finest

hotels and award-winning restaurants—is within an easy, short walk of everything else, with a dedicated festival trolley service offering assistance should you wish to rest up for a moment and catch your breath.

While no two Big Ears are quite the same, each year the festival presents many of the world’s most visionary composers and musicians, artists whose work reaches for new heights and expands to new frontiers. The programming transcends generation and genre—bringing together iconic trailblazers and young iconoclasts performing and sometimes blending classical and contemporary composition, jazz, rock, folk traditions from throughout the world, pop, drone, avant-garde, ambient and beyond.

For more information and tickets, visit BigEarsFestival.org.

Big Ears is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that receives substantial investment from donors and sponsors in the Knoxville community, as well as from private foundations, government agencies, and dedicated supporters across the country for whom the festival has become an annual pilgrimage. Explore our list of generous partners or join the ranks of our supporters.

MUSIC • TALKS & PANELS • FILM • WRITERS & POETS

UT GARDENS’ PLANT OF THE MONTH

Fringe Benefits: Discover a Fantastic Native Tree

BY DAVID HAMILTON, HORTICULTURIST, UT GARDENS, KNOXVILLE

AS WE HAVE settled into the new year amid the doldrums of winter, now is the time serious gardeners anticipate spring - when the days get longer and the garden will once again regain its color. With so many annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees blooming in spring and grabbing our attention, don’t overlook the American fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus). Not to be confused with the Chinese fringetree ( Chionanthus retusus), this elegant native tree with its beautiful, white, fleecy flowers blooms mid to late spring. The flower clusters are said to resemble an old man’s beard, which appropriately enough is another common name for this species.

The radiant white glow of the flowers is soon joined by the emergence of rich green, elliptical leaves that grow to three to eight inches each and become more prominent as the flowers fade away. It’s a beautiful transition that is well suited for summer greenery in parks and gardens. Plants are either male or female. The female produces dark blue 1/2-inch to 2/3-inch olive shaped fruits that birds relish. Because most American fringetrees on the market are grown from seed and sold before maturity, the best chance of getting fruit, if desired, is to plant four or more. If having only flowers is the goal, there are a few male cultivars available, but these can be difficult to find.

This tree can be grown as a shrub or, if pruned correctly, a gracefully handsome tree. It can grow up to 20 feet with beautiful light gray bark that looks amazing contrasted with its spring canopy. Because of its relatively small size, fringetree is an ideal choice for

a specimen plant in urban or suburban landscape or for use in parking lots or other confined areas.

American fringetree prefers deep, rich acidic soils but is tolerant of drought and shade, so it can be grown in many different environments. It is also tolerant of most pests and diseases, although recently there are signs pointing to issues with ambrosia beetle. Fortunately, it seems to still be putting up the good fight!

If you’re interested in seeing this showstopper, visit the University of Tennessee Gardens in Knoxville or Jackson. In Knoxville, you can see fringetree in the garden and growing in parking lot islands. Jackson has a collection of nine different cultivars representing both American and Chinese species growing on the south side of the office building. They are all thriving and are well maintained. If you desire one for your own garden, you won’t be disappointed! Feel free to stop by any time with questions about the American fringetree!

The UT Gardens includes plant collections located in Knoxville, Crossville, and Jackson. 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. For more information, visit UTGardens.Tennessee.edu.

Photo courtesy of UT Gardens

An American fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) shines in all its spring glory at the UT Gardens, Jackson. This native tree is a showy plant in spring, transitions to a graceful green presence when leaves emerge, and female fringetree even provide fruit for birds.

Photo courtesy Wikimedia/A. Kwiecień

Photo courtesy Wikimedia/H. Zell

WMarch in the Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

✻ You can plant cool season annuals, perennials, and vegetables but please don’t plant

BY LISA GRUGIN

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

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

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

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

✻ Get your containers ready for spring. Dump

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

✻ If your containers are large, you don’t need to dump the entire pot out every year. If a tree, shrub, or perennials are in them, top dress with compost. For seasonal planting, replace the top 6"-12" with fresh soil. Problems with fungus or insects? Start all over as both can hide out in soil and re-infect new plants. Remember to take care of our feathered friends. Keep your feeders and birdbaths clean and full, and protect birdhouses. We are getting shipments in daily right now, so stop in and see what’s new!

Meadow View Greenhouses & Garden Center

9885 Highway 11E

Lenoir City, TN 37772 865.986.7229

MeadowViewGreenhouse.com

New Exhibitions Opening

THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present four new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from March 1-30. Most of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at KnoxAlliance.store.

Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee in the Lower Gallery

In honor of National Quilting Day on March 16, members of the Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee (SMQ) are mounting an exhibit of more than 30 stunning quilts that illustrate the breadth of hand and machine techniques and the many reasons for making a quilt. Some are prize-winning works of art, while others were made for pleasure and daily use. Every quilt has a story behind it, and each quilter shares the inspiration for their creation as part of the exhibition. For example, one quilt commemorates 30 years of work by missionaries to translate the Bible into the native language for the people of Papua, New Guinea. Another quilter used leaves collected from her birthplace in Norway for a resist dyeing technique. A third SMQ member worked on a quilt depicting the promise of recovery while her younger sister was being treated for breast cancer.

SMQ typically meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm at Messiah Lutheran Church in Knoxville. SMQ’s approximately 100 members range from novice to master quilters in diverse quilt styles, including traditional and art quilts, complex and minimalist modern designs, miniatures and bed-sized, and hand- or machine-stitched. For more information about Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee, email info@smokymtnquilters.com.

Mac Bartine, George Denninger & Cosima Risolvo-Aryee:

The Upstairs

An Elevated View in the Upper Gallery Mac Bartine uses fluid layers of color, movement, and form to explore the imagination and our connections to emotion and the natural world. He strives to create works that invite personal interpretations and celebrations of our own experiences with life and creativity. Mac is a life-long East Tennessee resident who grew up in Roane County. His mother is a professional musician, which led to his life-long passion for music and art. This is his first public show of his paintings.

Although George Denninger has had many interests, artistic expression was his first love as a child. In his career, he has been an aerospace engineer,

an industrial and home designer, a college professor, a gallery owner, a motivational speaker, and an author. George has exhibited nationally, and his work is part of the Metroplitan Museum of Art’s permanent collection.

Emporium Center March 1

Cosima Risolvo-Aryee was born in Taranto, Italy, a gulf city in the Ionian Sea where she spent long days at the beach absorbing the beauty, serenity, and high energy of the sea; these days undoubtedly inspired her creativity, imagery, and soul of her work. At age 12, her family moved to northern Illinois, and at age 18, she served in the U.S. Army. In 2017, she began painting and exhibiting again, and her residence and art studio are currently located in East Tennessee. She works mainly in oils, occasionally using watercolors, pastel, and charcoal.

Hannah Hancock: Aging Into Vintage in the Atrium

Artist statement excerpts: Aging into Vintage catalogs my experiences and works during the 25 years of my life and is based on a concept I learned at my first job in an antique store. In the resale market, anything older than 25 years is considered “vintage.” Having turned 25 after numerous “once-in-a-lifetime” events such as the Covid pandemic, 2008 recession, 9/11, and more, this series is a reflection of what it means to have lived through so much yet so little in the grand scheme, emulating a sense of walking through my map of memories in a both intimately personal and abstracted manner.

Works by Luis Santiago in the Display Case

Artist statement excerpts: My artwork is all collage but from a different perspective that aims to challenge the viewer, making the familiar unfamiliar and the strange normal. It is up to the viewer to find a focal point, to look for the theme, and to understand what is and what isn’t as they observe. My collages are influenced by various art styles and forms ranging from abstract expressionism, to surrealism, to pop art. My art is also influenced by comic books, social media, graphic design, science fiction, body horror, and mythology.

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 Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm, Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm. Please note, the Emporium will be closed on Friday, March 29. For more information, call 865-523-7543 or visit KnoxAlliance.com.

Show:

Mac Bartine

Sue Serrano

George Denninger

Cosima Risolvo-Aryee

Cathy Bingham

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

CHEEKWOOD ESTATE &

Gardens is a 55-acre botanical garden and art museum located on the historic Cheek estate just outside of Nashville. Since being converted into a museum of art and botanical garden in 1960, Cheekwood has presented world-class art exhibitions, spectacular gardens, and a historic estate unlike anything else.

There’s no place more beautiful than Cheekwood in the spring as tulips, daffodils, and spring blooming bulbs spill from the gardens, creating a colorful, showstopping experience! Magnolias, redbuds, and dogwoods are also in on the act as warmer weather and longer days arrive. Celebrate the changing season with family activities, adult workshops and programs, special performances, and plenty of natural inspiration.

Cheekwood in Bloom: Belle Fleurs through April 14

Bienvenue to spring at Cheekwood! This year, impressions of France are brought to life with 250,000 blooming bulbs in cheerful pastel colors. Just as the exploration into Edgar Degas through works on paper are on view in the museum, Belles Fleurs comes alive in the Color Garden with a nod to classical French garden design. Traverse along parterre-inspired gardens and stop to capture a photo at the model Eiffel Tower. Warm pinks, apricots, and lavenders balance bolder expressions of red and yellow to further the echoes of Impressionism.

Edgar Degas: The Private Impressionist through June 16

Regarded as one of the keenest artistic observers of human nature, this exhibition illuminates the background and personality of this remarkable artist. With more than 50 drawings, prints, and photographs from a private collection by the great French artist, Edgar Degas (1834-1917), this is a delightful exploration into the art of one of the world’s most skilled and complex artists.

Visitation Information

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, located at 1200 Forrest Park just outside of Nashville, is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5 pm during Cheekwood in Bloom through April 14. Garden Only and Garden & Mansion (museum) tickets available. Memberships available with discounts for seniors, educators, military and students. For more information, visit Cheekwood.org.

Photos courtesy of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and Caitlin Harris

ICAME

ACROSS this “note to self” from a few years ago about a common challenge many of us face. I know that I welcomed the reminder and I thought you might, too.

There is a basic human character trait many of us struggle with as we seek to get in gear on whatever tasks or goals we have determined are important or necessary - procrastination. Put it off until later, deal with it tomorrow, await more information, defer to others, or simply not acting due to being unsure of a positive outcome. There are many professionals in the small business world who are creative, capable, hard-working people that fully believe in the work or service they offer but have a difficult time translating good intentions in to tangible actions and can often spend far too much time getting ready to get ready. Sound familiar?

Photo by Mirtography

are established that reinforce a “get out and do it” mentality. This also develops a resiliency that, when the days (or months, or year) get tough, the default mindset is to press on, get up, and keep going.

When all else fails, follow the plan - The business owner I was speaking with is starting a new venture, and we talked about the challenges of a new industry and a sole proprietorship - from making new contacts to how to market yourself and all the uncertainties of “will this actually work out?”

Getting Ready to Get Ready? Business Note

If new year plans and “resolutions” haven’t come together yet, here are some basic principles learned from my early days in sales that I thought were worth sharing as a gentle reminder, myself included:

BY BRETT CAFFERTY

Swing the bat - Having been in sales roles in several industries, and experiencing the challenge of hiring, managing, and coaching, this is the #1 rule that can be applied universally in all aspects of life. From a business perspective - the more activity, the more contacts made, the greater the chances for success. Your learning curve is greatly improved, and patterns of behavior

Referring to lessons learned over the years that have been reinforced by mentors, co-workers, and authorities on the subject, when discouraged or in doubt, do the next thing. Regardless of the type of business or venture, there should be a basic “recipe” of activities that, when done on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, will lead to results. This plan should be simple, easy to track, and easily shared with others for feedback or accountability.

When the days are long and you get discouraged, the simple act of following your plan by doing the next thing will result in a mental “boost” to help your attitude and perspective.

From one procrastinator to another (and isn’t that all of us at one time or another?) - keep it simple, have faith in your plan, and swing the bat!

The Future of Clear Skin

DEALING WITH persistent acne is a frustrating and often disheartening experience that extends beyond appearance. The emotional toll of waking up each day to new blemishes can be profound, impacting self-esteem and confidence. The quest for clear skin becomes a relentless journey marked by an array of skincare products, oral medications, and prescription topicals. The elusive goal of achieving a flawless complexion becomes not only a battle against acne breakouts, but also a struggle to prevent permanent scars, intensifying the emotional complexities associated with acne.

The future of clear skin is AviClear. The AviClear laser is the first and only FDA-cleared energy device for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe acne. The AviClear laser targets the root cause of acne, the sebaceous glands, without topical or oral medications. No other device on the market does this.

How Does it Work?

Acne is the most common dermatological condition in the world. Affecting more than 50 million people, acne is caused when excess oil from sebaceous glands combines with dead skin cells to clog pores. These clogged pores create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, resulting in acne lesions. The AviClear laser specifically targets the sebaceous glands, stopping the problem at its source.

What is the AviClear Treatment Experience Like?

The AviClear procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to perform. During treatment, patients may feel a slight snapping sensation. In clinical studies, patients tolerated the treatment well, without the need for pain mitigation or the need to stop the treatment session. There is no downtime, and patients can resume regular activities immediately. Mild swelling may be visible for a few days. A series of three treatments performed four weeks apart has been shown to significantly eliminate acne. AviClear treatments can be performed year-round and are safe for all skin types and tones.

How Effective is AviClear?

From clinical trials, we know that after three treatment sessions, 90% of patients experienced visible improvement in their acne, and 87% saw at least half of their

acne clear. There was a 93% reduction in inflammatory acne lesions within the first six months of treatment. According to 12-month clinical data, improvement increased to 92%, which confirms the long-term clearance claim. No other device for acne can make this claim.

If you have become frustrated with the currently available treatments for acne and are looking for a long-term solution for your acne concerns, contact Southeastern Dermatology and schedule a consultation. We will review AviClear in its entirety, determine your candidacy, discuss your medical history, and find out if AviClear is right for you.