HUshh Magazine Spring 2024

SEEING THROUGH THE SMOKE

The Story of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

TOOLS AS ART: WORK & PLAY

The Remarkable Collection of John Hechinger

AMERICANA LEGENDS ALONGSIDE NEWCOMERS

Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival Returns

BREAK THROUGH THE BARRIER with Heather Whittemore

events

37

STATEHOOD DAY CELEBRATION

Celebrate this special day for Tennessee at the Sequoyah Museum with live demostrations.

39

PUNK VS FUNK

Fleurish: A Sustainable Fashion Event & Fundraiser for Ijams Nature Center.

42

FESTIVAL TO FEATURE AMERICANA LEGENDS

Learn more about Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival & why you must go.

44

|

46

UPCOMING APRIL | MAY EVENTS

This is where you can plan your calendar with events for all types of activities.

45

STARGAZE WITH THE PAST

Join Marble Springs State Historic Site for a unique chance to gaze at the heavens.

food + beverage

08

RISING WITH GRACE

The story of Carson Barra and the Sovereign Sourdough Bakery.

publisher | CAJUN GRAHAM

contributing photographers & writers

ALYSSA MARTIN

ARIELLE DEVITO

CARSON BARRA

ELIZABETH GRANT

HEATHER WHITTEMORE

JENNIFER WATTS

SARAY TAYLOR-ROMAN

graphic design

GRAYSON ADS CREATED BY GRETA HARLESS

LUCAS FERNANDES

MICHELLE JOHNSON

sales executives

TERRY PATTERSON

from the editor

No one wants to have their heart crushed. But being wounded in deep places happens. Sometimes it just seems to be part of the rhythm of life. When these hard times come, we feel it all so very deeply. And we wonder if others have these hard, hard moments. After all, we don’t snap pictures of the crushing times and post them on Instagram.

We just wonder if we have what it takes to survive … … when the doctor calls and says he needs to talk to me in person about the test results.

… when the teacher sends one of “those” emails about my child.

… when I feel so utterly incapable and unable and afraid.

I know I am not alone in these thoughts

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIV)

Amidst all the turmoil and chaos leading up to and creating this issue, something happened that reminded me of the absolute grace & forgiveness I have been given and continue to receive.

See “Grace” means undeserved, unmerited, and unearned favor.

And for most of my life, I have felt undeserved of any blessings that have been bestowed upon me. But God has absolutely poured out an abundance of His Grace in my life during this issue, in the connections he’s created for me and people he has placed in my life, reassuring me He is there.

Last year my business partner, Greta, the former publisher of Hushh, decided to retire from the business (see her farewell article in Hushh Summer 2023), making me take a step back to really think about what I wanted my future as well as the future of Grace Marketing and its publications to look like.

Shortly after taking this step, I had a diagnosis that was a medical anomaly. I ended up having a fibroid on my uterus, weighing over 25 pounds, and measuring 15” x14” x 12.5”, causing them to have to perform a partial hysterectomy.

The surgery, believe it or not, was not the scary part!

The scary part was the fact that I am a work-a-holic control freak and how in the world was I going to ever allow myself to relax and heal? Thankfully my staff, friends and family stepped up to help me through my recovery and it allowed me the time to really concentrate on the future of Hushh. The downside is that this issue is a little late to arrive but I promise it was well worth it!

I didn’t want to just rush and throw something out. I wanted the first issue of Hushh to begin to reflect my vision for its future. A vision of sharing people’s stories that inspire you; creatively, personally, professionally, or emotionally. I want to uplift women and men- to encourage them to take those scary steps, to persevere through the crushing times, to embrace what the future holds.

He reminded me I am not alone and I want you to know you are not alone either. That the crushing times are necessary. That the crushing times are processing times. Even though stepping back can be hard, or seem like it’s slowing down the race to the finish line, He has a plan, and His plan is greater than anything we could ever imagine.

So I ask you to take a step back, take note of your dreams, your passions, be honest with yourself and pinpoint the things holding you back or needing adjustment and just take that step of faith to move forward, to grow and blossom into who you are meant to be!

Read her story starting on page 18

Photo by Saray Taylor-Roman

Rising with Grace

The

Story of Carson Barra and the Sovereign Sourdough Bakery

I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.

-John 6:25-59

Iwould like to begin by expressing my utmost surprise and gratitude for the fact that I now own my very own bakery, a venture I could never have fathomed in my wildest dreams. While I had envisioned pursuing a career as a professional dancer in New York or even obtaining a medical degree, the idea of becoming a sourdough baker simply did not enter my realm of possibilities.

This turn of events reinforces the notion that God always has grander plans in store for us, surpassing what we can envision for ourselves. It is quite amusing how God orchestrates our lives, completely altering our path within a matter of minutes, particularly when faced with unexpected challenges.

For those who are unfamiliar with my background, allow me to introduce myself. I am Carson Barra, a 30-year-old individual who has encountered numerous curveballs that shaped me into the devoted follower of Jesus, wife, mother, and friend I am today.

My childhood was far from ordinary, marked by a mix of blessings from parents who loved me and an array of hardships that most individuals do not experience until later in life, if ever. Growing up, my father was chronically ill, with our family well aware that his time with us was limited. While this perspective provided us with a clear understanding of life’s priorities, it also required me to take on additional responsibilities that seemed to shift the balance unfavorably in my direction. At least, that’s how I perceived it at the time.

As my father’s condition worsened, my mother was presented with a significant and much-needed opportunity to provide for our family financially. While this was undoubtedly a blessing, it further impacted my perception of the mother-daughter relationship I observed among my friends. Consequently, the majority of my time was spent with my father. Looking back, I am immensely grateful for the extra time I had with him. In fact, without that additional time, I am uncertain whether my priorities

in life would be as clear as they are today.

You see, my father’s character resembled that of Jesus. He instilled in me the importance of maintaining faith during trials and tribulations. Through his actions, he exemplified a selfless love for others, extending a helping hand whenever possible. His love was so profound and pure that a single glimpse into his eyes would ignite a burning sensation within your soul. Unintentionally, my father underscored the significance of time and the need to focus on what truly matters, emphasizing the priority of family, regardless of personal cost.

Naturally, during my college years, I gravitated towards career paths that involved nurturing and finding ways to empower individuals with disabilities. After completing a degree in Science, specifically Kinesiology, my primary focus revolved around designing comprehensive medical treatment plans to enhance the quality of life for others. I worked with diverse conditions such as diabetes, stroke patients, traumatic brain injuries, and various disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, and Down Syndrome. Witnessing the positive impact I could make brought me great joy.

During my first year of graduate school, I unexpectedly became a single mother while carrying my first child. Simultaneously, my father, the most extraordinary person I have known and my best friend, began to deteriorate. At 21 years old, I found myself juggling the responsibilities of being a single mother, pursuing a medical career, and witnessing my beloved father’s health decline. From a human perspective, my world seemed to crumble. However, from God’s perspective, the best years of my life were about to unfold.

In 2015, I gave birth to my beautiful daughter. Becoming a mother transformed my desires, shifting my focus away from the frenetic pace of the medical field. Instead, I yearned to experience every aspect of my children’s lives: the intimate moments, the tears, breastfeeding, morning walks, snack time, tantrums,

trips to the playground, bedtime, bath time, story time - everything. Thankfully, my mother and father enabled me to fulfill this aspiration. For the first year of my baby girl’s life, I was a stay-at-home mom, and I thrived in that role. Moreover, during this time, my father was constantly with us, cherishing every bit of joy this precious child brought into the world. I, in turn, had the privilege of spending precious moments with my father before his time on earth drew to a close.

Reflecting on the heartache I felt during my journey as a single mom, I can unequivocally say that I would not trade that experience for the opportunity to relive it differently. It was during those challenging months and early years that

God worked in miraculous ways. He provided invaluable moments for my father and me, fostering a strong bond between my baby girl and her grandfather, even if it was only temporary. Furthermore, through God’s grace, my daughter’s father surrendered his life to Jesus, resulting in a restored relationship that has now blossomed into a marriage. The magnitude of God’s greatness is truly astounding. As stated in the book of Romans, God declares that all things, even the hardships, work together for His glory. My life is a testament to God’s love and promises, representing restoration, forgiveness, and His unwavering faithfulness.

In January 2018, my father passed away and, contrary to my expectations, I experienced an

overwhelming sense of peace. When one knows Jesus, they grasp the fullness of heavenly promises, and it is this understanding that breeds hope for the future. On days when grief would strike, I unknowingly sought solace in the kitchen, seeking to immerse myself in the act of baking. Although sourdough was not yet my focus at the time, it marked the beginning of my therapeutic inclinations towards baking. Fast forward to 2020, our “Midwest” family of four made the decision to abandon city life and embark on a new adventure of “slower living” in Knoxville, Tennessee. It seems as though there is something truly magical in the Tennessee air or perhaps it’s the influence of Tennessee whiskey. Either way, we are now proud to be

a southern family of five (not including our pug, Rosie, and ten chickens)! We are incredibly grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us.

As you can discern, our family has wholeheartedly embraced a more natural and homesteading-oriented lifestyle. We prioritize biblical truths, quality family time, and proper nutrition. Consequently, we have chosen to homeschool our girls, prepare meals from scratch, cultivate our own food, and, as you may already be aware, bake our own sourdough bread. Though we have adopted a slower pace of life, our days are unmistakably busy! Therefore, more often than not, you will find me dressed in comfortable attire, sporting a fresh-faced look and a top knot hairstyle. After all, who has time to dedicate to getting ready, right?

In all seriousness, I acknowledge that not all families possess the luxury, time, or knowledge required to “do it all,” despite their sincere desire to do so. Hence, I have made the decision to pursue baking bread professionally. Bread is a staple in every family’s diet, consumed at least once a day. So, why not create a delicious and nutritious loaf that can spark conversations around the kitchen table, the heart of any home?

For those familiar with my products, you know that with every loaf, cinnamon roll, cake, or cookie that I bake, I intercede in prayer for you, your spouse, or your family from the moment I begin mixing the dough until I complete packaging the product. Baking

sourdough, as you will discover, is much more than a simple culinary task; it is a spiritual and therapeutic endeavor that yields incredibly delightful results.

Realizing that it is logistically impossible for me to bake for every individual in the world, my aim for this book is to demystify the fears and insecurities surrounding sourdough and guide you on a journey toward feeding your family not only physically but also spiritually. I aspire for this book to serve as a celebration, not only bringing people together around the table, but also introducing them to the love of Jesus.

My purpose is to encourage you to pursue what Jesus calls you to do and to invest your time in your family, creating a nurturing environment in which your legacy will endure. Perhaps this sourdough journey can be a part of that lasting heritage.

So, are you ready to embark on a journey that only requires some flour, water, and a touch of God’s incredible creation? Fear not, for this is not simply a scientific experiment; it is more akin to a lively and joyous scientific party taking place in your own kitchen. And I am here as your party planner, committed to ensuring that it becomes the best party of your life!

To learn more, please visit our website! You will find two books (one for sourdough bread, and another for gluten-free sourdough bread), as well as our class schedule, swag, and more! sovereignsourdough.godaddysites.com. Story written by Carson Barra

Making a Statement

Entryways set the tone for your visitors

Your entryway is the space that welcomes guests into your home, which is why it’s important to make it as impactful and practical as possible. The entryway sets the tone for the rest of the home, so always look for ways to create a chic and inviting space that makes a great first impression.

To help ensure that your entryway is the stylish yet streamlined space it deserves to be, we asked some of our favorite interior designers what specific entry design elements to keep an eye out for. From functional furnishings to statement décor accents, here are 12 things designers always notice in an entryway, and how to create a similar look in your own home.

SEATING

Whether it’s a sleek bench or a plush settee, interior designers agree that a comfortable place to sit or take your shoes off is essential in an entryway.

ACCENT TABLE

A chic accent table that provides a place for tossing keys is a design-savvy addition to an entryway.

Make sure the table is wide enough for a catchall, candle, and vase, but always ensure that the table doesn’t interfere with your door swing. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least two inches from the tip of the table to the doorway itself, that way you have ease of flow when

entering, removing a jacket and tossing your keys in a handy catchall.

ORGANIZATION

All of the little things that get dropped in an entryway can quickly pile up, which is why it’s crucial to keep the space organized.

Before you design your entry, take your everyday needs into consideration. Then, get creative incorporating solutions that also work nicely within your aesthetic, such as built-in cubbies for storage or a petite chair where your kids can put on their shoes. This will ensure everyone in your family gets in and out of the door more smoothly.

WALLPAPER

If you thought you couldn’t make a statement in a small entryway space, interior designers say you’re mistaken.

“Use a loud wallpaper that knocks you off your feet and will transform any size of any entryway. Don’t forget about the fifth wall: the ceiling. You can paper it in a different but still coordinating wallpaper, or paint it in a color found in the paper.”

-Designer Isabel Ladd

MIRRORS

A well-placed mirror can work wonders in a cramped entryway, especially one that lacks natural light.

A mirror can make a space feel larger while adding light and reflectivity that increases the lumens of the existing ceiling or wall fixtures, plus, everyone likes to check their appearance on the way into a home or have a last-minute check on the way out.

BASKETS

If you don’t have a storage basket or two handy in your entryway already, it’s time to add some.

Inevitably, you’ll have guests or friends come in and take their shoes off, which creates a pile of shoes for people to trip over as they enter your home making baskets the perfect entryway accessory to stash shoes in.

LIGHTS

A beautiful light fixture can brighten up a dim entryway while providing plenty of ambient lighting.

Making a statement in an entry, sets the tone for the rest of the home’s interior. For example, a killer chandelier or gorgeous pendant light can create a ‘wow’ moment when you walk in that gives guests an idea of how the rest of the house lives.

ART

To leave a lasting impression on guests

in your entryway, hang up an interesting piece of art. This is your chance to show off your style, so dress the walls up as you would any other area of your home.

The beautiful thing about the area we live in, Knoxville has an amazing abundance of local artist you buy from directly or from the many galleries. We like going to Little River Art and Art Market Gallery just to anme a few, but there are so many more to explore.

SYMMETRY

Whether it’s with strategically placed accent tables or a pair of coordinating pendant lamps, if you aren’t creating visual symmetry in your entryway, you should try a different approach.

Symmetry helps one feel order and balance immediately upon entry which will undoubtedly stick with

them as they tour the rest of the space.

PLANTS

A little greenery can go a long way in an entryway. Try incorporating a houseplant or two into your decor scheme. Plants have such a way of providing personality and contributing to the hospitality of a space, and they have the ability to say a lot about whoever is living there. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate or finicky, but adding any sort of live greenery in a conservative, neutral planter or vessel is rarely a misstep.

CLOSED CABINETS

A clean-lined cabinet supplies more than just surface space for stashing outthe-door items and it can upgrade an entire entryway.

Not only does it provide a convenient surface to place keys, mail, and catchall trays, it allows you to store your shoes in a tidy and organized way that’s out of plain sight if you aren’t a fan of baskets.

STATEMENT ACCENTS

When it comes to outfitting a small entryway, the more eye-catching décor items, the better.

Drama in an entry is always an exciting way to welcome your guests. If you’re working with limited square footage, we suggest adding oversized lighting, largescale art, and a narrow console table to compensate.

WINNING ENTRYWAY

We want to see what your entryway looks like- post a pic and tag us on instagram or Facebook. We will be giving away local artist original paintings at the end of May to several of our favorites!

Are you a local interior decorator? We want to hear from you. Hushh is looking for contributing writers for home design. Email info@hushh.club to learn more

Cheyenne Pilgrim

TAYLOR

ROMAN

Through hard work, life lessons, and God’s favor, Saray Taylor-Roman has built a photography empire in Knoxville, inspiring her clients to find the divinity within themselves.

Saray grew up moving around Mexico due to her father’s work as a minister. By the time she was fifteen, she had attended eleven different schools in seven different states and two different countries. While she came from humble beginnings she was rich in curiosity and creativity.

Saray was a quiet yet witty and observant girl. Looking back, the hours she would spend as a child during the summers at her grandfather’s garden admiring nature, counting the ridges of the petals in hibiscus as big as her face, dissecting bug exoskeletons, taking 30-minute bus trips to the gulf of Mexico to feel the ocean breeze, or jumping on a small fishing boat for an hour to visit her great grandmother across the Coatzacoalcos river helped spur her creativity and incorporate amazing shapes and textures into her photography today.

While shapes and textures from her past heavily influence her creative work, Saray’s color palette is opposite of what you might expect from a Mexican artist. The colors in her photographs aren’t bright and saturated; instead, they are muted and in pastel tones as if they were screenshots from her childhood memories.

As Saray grew, the little girl who admired beauty and freedom in nature, was introduced to the ugly negativity of the world and its

skewed mindset of beauty.

When she was around eight years old, a man came knocking on her family’s door inquiring about taking family portraits. Her parents obliged because they had never had portraits taken before and set a date for a few weeks out.

When the day came for photos, Saray, being the oldest sibling, went first. Excited for the experience of getting her photo taken, she sat on a chair, innocent, trusting, and smiling wide, showing all of her missing baby teeth, ready to begin.

Here she sat, smiling wide for her photo, only for the photographer to tell her not to smile because she was missing some teeth, and it didn’t look good. As he finished taking Saray’s portrait, her little sister ran into the room, eager for her turn. The man smiled at her and said, “Oh, the cute one of the family is here!”

Saray recalls that the impact these words had on her self-esteem and had stayed with her for decades. Right after this event, Saray thought that she shouldn’t be in front of the camera anymore. She said “if you look at the family albums, I’m a blur in the back. I knew if you moved so fast, you would be a blur because cameras couldn’t freeze movement back then.” Eventually, she started taking the photos at her family reunions just to avoid being in them.

While this concept of not being worthy of being photographed wasn’t a conscious thought she battled with day to day, it definitely was something she stored in her subconscious mind; something that came back to haunt her years later while in college.

Saray started her college career

to become a teacher in Tabasco, Mexico. Saray said “you see, all my aunts are teachers, all my uncles are engineers. My favorite aunt was a professor of engineering and, logically, my path had been decided”. After all, teaching came easy to her. Saray had taught her little sister how to read and write when she was 4 years old. She remembers hosting get-togethers at her home for friends of hers and her sister to come do their homework and grab a bite to eat after school. She also taught English as a second language while in her last year of high school and while she attended college in southern Mexico.

In her junior year in college, her parents got invited to start a spanish-speaking ministry in West Knoxville. Saray and her sister had to make a decision of whether or not to move to East TN with their parents. While Saray loved where she grew up, they did move around a lot, and she had no real ties to keep her there making this opportunity an easy choice for her.

At the time, Saray applied to both Maryville College and the University of Tennessee in Knoxville (UTK). UTK was going to charge their family out-of-state tuition while Maryville College granted her a 50% scholarship that later, due to her involvement in student affairs and her good grades, was bumped up to 75%. Unfortunately, at the time, she was told that none of her credits from Mexico transferred so she had to start over. This was her chance to try something new and reinvent herself. She decided to major in

International Studies. One of her favorite things about Maryville College was that it is a liberal arts college and Saray took advantage of that. She enjoyed taking courses outside of her major like microbiology, embryology, music appreciation, and a course on the United Nations that changed her study abroad path from France to Japan. Saray spent the first semester of her junior year in Osaka, Japan.

When she returned from her trip, an incredible surprise awaited her. She learned that all of her Mexico credits now transferred, allowing her to earn two degrees– one in Education and one in International Studies. Now only lacking a few extracurricular courses and student teaching experience, she chose to take film photography to fill the extracurricular credit requirements. This was the beginning of her path to becoming the Master photographer she is today.

At the end of her first semester of photography, her class took a trip to a gallery for an assignment. They were to study the portraits and write about their experience.

As she meandered through the exhibit, she noticed how some photographs were more captivating than others. She asked the galleria host why some photographs were so mesmerizing that she could stare at them forever and others didn’t speak to her at all even though they had good composition and good use of light.

Without missing a beat, he said, “Well, some people are photogenic and some people aren’t and sometimes as a photographer you get lucky and sometimes you just don’t.”

Saray said when she heard this, her childhood memory of being told her smile wasn’t beautiful enough to be photographed came back.

needed a steady income, she looked into becoming a wedding photographer.

Saray enrolled in an online course on wedding photography and assisted some photographers she knew in that field on a few shoots. She quickly realized that wedding photography wasn’t for her. The responsibility of a photographer on a wedding day was too much pressure, but she realized she did enjoy directing and taking the formal portraits at the weddings.

While finishing her online wedding course, Saray received an ad for an upcoming online course. The lady in the ad was Sue Bryce and Saray still gets the same chills she got the first time she heard Sue say “if you don’t own a photograph of yourself that you love, it’s not your fault, it’s your photographer’s. And I’m here to teach you how to take beautiful photos of anyone who sits for you”. Immediately, Saray knew that this is what she was missing all along, a mentor to show her the way.

“I had forgotten it,” Saray said. “I had never told anybody about it. I never told my parents that it had happened. It came back as if it had just happened… that night, in college. And, I said to myself I will never become a photographer if I have the power to make anyone feel this way. Because if it’s just luck, and if it’s just some people who are good-looking, then I don’t want to do it.”

After that moment, Saray only photographed things, not people – buildings, flowers, insects, cats, nature. Saray kept photography as a hobby and got a job teaching Spanish at Oak Ridge High School after graduating in 2008, the same year she married her husband Daniel.

In 2012 Saray decided she didn’t want to spend the rest of her life teaching Spanish, but she felt stuck and wasn’t sure what to do. Since she liked photography but also

Saray spent nearly eight months learning how to methodically use a digital camera to the point she didn’t have to think about which buttons to push or what the settings needed to be – until it became second nature to her. Once she mastered that, she started taking photos of anybody who would sit for her, following her mentor’s coaching. From learning her camera, to creating a sell-able portfolio, to drafting a business plan, was a two year process all while still teaching full time and now caring for a newborn baby.

She didn’t tell any of her coworkers or students about her photography dreams, but a student’s mom found Saray’s work online and begged her for months to take her daughter’s portraits. At first, Saray didn’t want to take photos of students because she thought people might see it as her playing favorites or a way to get a better grade in her class.

However, when the mom told Saray that her daughter was only taking French and not Spanish, she realized the issue wasn’t fully with the teacher-student dynamic. It was impostor syndrome.

Saray said impostor syndrome can be crippling and it costs many people their dreams. Even though she had spent two years mastering her new craft, her mentor and strangers alike complimented her work, and even though by July 2014, she had everything in place to launch her photography business: a website, a product menu, social media pages, and a beautiful portfolio; she had ‘chickened out’ and had gone back to teaching.

On top of that, her mentor had suggested pricing based

on Saray’s portfolio and her boutique business style that includes hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling for all her clients. But Saray hadn’t learned her self value yet and could not see herself charging industry standard pricing. It was this inner battle that kept her from taking a single client. She would turn them down before they had the opportunity to book her.

Saray told the mom about the upcoming experience she and her daughter could expect at the photo shoot session and they both got excited. She then told her the price per image that her mentor had suggested, expecting a “no, thanks!” from the mom. An awkward moment of silence later, the mom reflected back to Saray her fear and said, “wow that is pricey. I think we will buy just one image, if that’s okay with you.” Saray consented and they set up a date and time during winter break for this session.

The session was everything Saray had dreamed of: she got to dress her client in multiple outfits, direct hair and makeup, and guide the client through varied poses. For a moment, Saray was back in her grandfather’s garden on a warm summer morning, and her inner child came alive! Those photos were the beginning of her journey as the international award-win-

ning artist she has become.

A few weeks later, during the second weekend in January of 2015, Saray prepared for the family to pick out their one image, but she went ahead and printed 40 images for them to choose from. Her thought was that whatever they didn’t buy would serve as a product showcase for future clients.

When the family arrived, Saray asked them to sort the prints into “love” and “don’t love” piles. The family looked at the photos, and quietly started putting all of them into one pile. Saray braced herself, expecting them to hate all the photos.

Finally they asked Saray how much it was for an image, and she repeated the price but reminded them that the more they bought the more they would save. The mom looked at Saray and asked, “Well, how much is it for all of them?” Saray couldn’t form the words to say the total, because it was almost the same amount she made in two months as a teacher. Without realizing she was comparing apples to oranges because as a first generation entrepreneur, Saray hadn’t yet learned the difference between gross revenue and net profit: that after the cost of goods, the cost of doing business, and all the personal and

business taxes, the take home pay from any total is close to 25%. Still the large sum took Saray by surprise so she wrote the amount on a sticky note and handed it to the mom.

All the mom said was, “Do you take checks?” and happily took all the images home!

Completely baffled and surprised that her mentor’s lessons actually worked, Saray had to call her husband to pick her up because she was too shocked to drive home. Three days later, Saray asked for a personal day at school and attended a class at the Knoxville Entrepreneurship Center about starting a business led by Laura Overstreet.

At the end of the class, armed with confidence from her weekend sales session, but not knowing how to start a business from a legal perspective, Saray asked Laura to lunch to get her professional opinion on her business plan. Overstreet said everything looked great, but she was concerned that her business pricing may be high for the Knoxville area given that Saray’s mentor lived in Los Angeles. Saray said she had the same thoughts but that she had just sold her top package the weekend before.

Overstreet told Saray to disregard her concern and instead gave Saray a list of

all the things she had to do that day to get a business license and start recording taxes. Overstreet became Saray’s second client also. As Saray reflects back on that moment, she is so thankful for Overstreet because she gave her the confidence and proof of concept she needed to make her dream a reality.

“People say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I feel like beauty is in everybody,” Saray shares while she is getting hair and makeup done at her studio to create the cover for this magazine’s issue.

“I want to show people that, even if they have been told they’re not photogenic or even if they hear an internal ugly voice in their head when they look into a mirror, they are indeed made in the image of the creator, and there is this beautiful divinity within them, and my job is to capture it and reflect it back to them”.

Saray often tells her clients that her mission is to photograph people the way their loved ones see them “because your loved ones don’t see the wrinkles, they don’t see the weight. They see you, and they love you because of who you are. The way God see us through Christ, isn’t it a beautiful thing?”

While her mission has kept her going even in hard times, Saray has not had a family member to rely on for encouragement or advice as no one in her family had owned a business. Her mom, out of concern and misguided love, had actually told Saray that if she didn’t want to work anymore at the high school that she should dedicate herself to her daughter and husband and stop chasing a wild dream.

Even though Saray’s mom was happy to watch her granddaughter while Saray was teaching at school, she stopped doing so when Saray went full time into photography.

Saray laughs about the time she recently ran into a local business lady, and that the lady reminded her of when Saray had to clean up baby vomit from her outfit and shoes before going into a networking meeting. “I can’t believe that’s what she remembers” Saray lightheartedly shares with me.

Saray says that entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint of heart.

She likens entrepreneurship to a never-ending roller-coaster for people who are afraid of heights. Running a business also takes a toll on your physical and mental health. Saray shared that she developed several health issues related to sudden weight gain and continuous stress while building her business. You have to develop really thick skin because as your business grows, so will your trolls” Saray sighed.

Yet, on those low days, where she has felt like quitting, she is filled with gratitude for God’s favor over her life and business because as a Christian, Saray believes that her purpose in life is bigger than running a business as one of her clients eloquently shared:

“After going through a divorce, menopause, bankruptcy, I felt wiped out, haggard. The day of the shoot with Saray I felt like a princess: pretty clothes, hair, and makeup. It was a fairytale day of pampering. But the images! When I saw what Saray pulled out of me, I wept. I was still there. I was still alive! Thank you Saray for restoring my inside belief that I am pretty! If pictures can heal, yours did.”

Saray realizes that this talent she has is indeed a gift. Saray remembers clearly a particular day when she was battling with impostor syndrome as an artist during her second year in business. Her client that day, without knowing what was going on in Saray’s heart, told her “this verse in Numbers came to me during my morning devotional and I think it is for you: he has filled [you] with the Spirit of God, with skill, with intelligence, with knowledge, and with all craftsmanship to devise artistic designs”. Saray said that as she stepped into her God-given identity as an artist, she realized her creativity was a reflection of His image in her and she didn’t feel like an impostor anymore.

Armed with this confidence, the following year Saray decided to start her journey as an accredited photographer with The Portrait Masters. Within two years she earned the highest tier of accreditation for any portrait master which is Fellow. She was the first Latina to achieve that honor and the only recipient

with 50 silver merits when only 10 merits are required.

In 2019, when she received her Fellow title, she also won first place in the Teen and Senior Portrait category as well as 7 other places in the Top Ten of that category among thousands of entries worldwide. Saray said: “I sat there in awe and speechless as they kept calling my name award after award”.

Saray also said that a lot of the things that you see in her creative work, are the things that caught her eye as a kid. The insect shapes, the waves in the ocean, the way the wind moved over the water, or the flower petals in my grandfather’s garden — all those things… came back into all of my awarded work.” “It’s funny”, she shares, “that I employed movement to avoid being on camera and now capturing motion is a signature of my style.”

Her signature style, the awards, and her business success caught the attention of industry leaders. She believes God’s favor upon her really is what did it. She believes that life and business is so much easier when you believe it’s all rigged in your favor. She winks and says “you know I’m God’s favorite, right?!” Within months of her accreditation, Saray became a sought-after speaker and has flown all around the world to share her entrepreneurial acumen and artistic skills.

While entrepreneurship is not easy, Saray wouldn’t have it any other way, she gladly calls herself unemployable “because now that I’ve tasted freedom, I can’t go back to a 9-5 job.” One of her favorite verses is “it’s for Freedom’s sake that we’ve been set free” and Saray believes that the freedom that comes with entrepreneurship, while it’s not for everybody, is something she wants to normalize for others. For other first generation immigrants like herself, for other moms who desire to be known for more than just being a mom, and for those stuck in corporate jobs yearning to turn their creative skills into a business.

Saray has brought together her background in teaching,

her years of experience running a successful business, and her personal journey of faith to help new photographers thrive while pursuing their dreams with her online course for portrait photographers.

Moreover, as Saray embraces her identity as a creator, she wants to lead more people to financial freedom in 2024. She is currently developing a beta program for people to start monetizing their years of experience in their particular field or their unique set of skills as they create online courses to share their expertise.

As a natural introvert, you may wonder how Saray navigates being a mom and wife, an entrepreneur, a sought-after speaker, and a course producer. One of the most important business lessons Saray has learned is that boundaries are necessary to thrive. Her priority is to protect her energy so that she can pour out of her overflow.

Saray loves riding her bike in solitude while listening to Hillsong Worship radio on Pandora every morning. “Starting my day with God, in nature, and with the right mindset, I can take whatever the day brings” Saray shares. This process helps her to show up as the best boss, mentor, wife, mom and friend.

“Being true to yourself, being the most yourself, and being the way you were created to be is where you’re going to find the most joy and fulfillment” Saray said. That is why one of Saray’s biggest motivators and inspirations for success is her daughter. Saray knows that children don’t do what we tell them to do, they do what they see us doing. So, I want her to discover her true identity in Christ, develop her unique talents, and decide to go after her dreams even on the days when it gets hard.

Saray believes that when we take ownership of that uniqueness it is when we can finally experience true freedom. And only when we have tasted true freedom can we invite others to experience it as well.

“My heart bursts its banks, spilling beauty and goodness. I pour it out in [photographs] to the king.“

Get Out Get Fit

Here are some great places to get out and get fit with a hike, run, jog, swim or just play a fun sport.

HIKING TRAIL

IJAMS River Trail Loop: Ijams has over 20 trails and an old quarry with a lake. You can see a huge variety of birds and wildlife while you hike!

RUNNING TRAIL

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness: While we are highlighting them for runing, they have more than 10 trailheads, two swimmable quarries, and an 11-ish mile “loop” that connects 6+ separate parks consisting of over 50 miles of soft and hard surface trails designed for hikers, bikers, and runners. Oh, and did we mention it is only 10 minutes from downtown?

PICKLEBALL

The Pickleball Palyground: This venue has 7 indoor & 16 Outdoor Pickleball Courts, plus 1 Indoor & 4 Outdoor Tennis Courts.

*If you get into this fun sport, stop by Me&Co in Beardenthey have the cutest bags built for holding your pickleball paddle and supplies in style!

SWIM|KAYAK|PADDLE BOARD

Augusta Quarry at Fort

Dickerson Park:

Looking for a quick afternoon vacation-like escape?

Just across the river from downtown, it’s a convenient place to enjoy a hike or paddle. Kayaks, paddleboards, and tubes can be rented seasonally through River Sports Outfitters. It is also free to swim with no lifeguard on duty.

Why should you care about fitness? Why should you care about exercising?

We all know that living a lifestyle committed to incorporating physical activity is an option for all of us, but it can sometimes be intimidating or difficult to stick to a typical workout plan. You can probably think of a handful of people you know – whether that includes you or not – that do some form of regular physical activity. Their best effort to encourage you to be physically active may not be enough to convince you of its benefits.

Despite visits for an annual check-up at the doctor’s office or the fitness influencers on social media and YouTube, you may not be fully convinced it’s worth the effort because there’s nothing guaranteeing that the energy required to follow through will be worth the effort.

If at least three of the following reasons are important to you, it’s time to put any limiting beliefs you may be holding onto aside and get started on being a healthier you. “Regular exercise,” as listed here, constitutes 30 minutes of moderate activity three or more days per week. Moderate exercise is light to moderate resistance physical activity or walking.

1. Regular exercise results in an 83% lower risk of osteoarthritis. What an amazing thing to know that you can avoid arthritis or even reduce your risk and severity.

2. Regular exercise results in a 68% lower risk of hip fracture. Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture.

3. Where there is a decrease in physical fitness, there is an increased risk of premature death.

4. Regular exercise improves mental health, especially helping to manage symptoms of anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and depression.

5. Regular exercise improves your overall mood, sleep, self-confidence, digestion, and even your memory.

6. Being active improves your body’s sensitivity to insulin and blood sugar levels.

Diet culture has done a great job convincing us that exercising is mainly correlated with reducing unwanted fat. For many people, exercising is directly associated with weight loss, muscle building, physical therapy or athletic conditioning.

Exercising regularly is so much more than what diet culture, and some popular fitness influencers, have made it out to be.

Unfortunately, that’s why most people who exercise in order to accomplish one of these goals often stop once their goal is reached, and those who stop tend to have a hard time getting started again when they need to reach a new goal, due to changes in their body.

Instead, wouldn’t it be beneficial to find an activity you enjoy doing that fills the gap between goal setting seasons? Just as you make plans for each season of your year – planning vacations, projects, education, and financial goals – you can plan physical activity that fits in your schedule and aligns with your energy level.

Exercise doesn’t fit into a one size fits all box. While many do enjoy running and lifting weights, exercise can be more spontaneous and adventurous like hiking, short or long distances, swimming, biking, yoga or even pickleball, just to name a few.

If you’re not sure what fits best for each season of your year, start by trying something new this week.

As your schedule and the seasons change, choose something that does not have a long term contract and is free or inexpensive. Commit to trying it out for six to twelve weeks to see how it goes. If you enjoy it, stick with it!

Being open to trying new things and establishing some activity “staples” will help reduce your resistance to exercise and increase your motivation–as well as your consistency!

Remember, your “why” matters and prevention is the BEST medicine. You can do whatever you set your mind to! Now go find YOUR fit!

Arielle DeVito | Wellness Coordinator, PCC Fitness Center & Be More Than Fit

Call/Text 585-208-0337

PCC Fitness Center 315-548-8125 www.bemorethanfit.com

Break Through the Barrier

Heather Whittemore, owner of Be Well Knoxville

Why is it so hard to lose weight? You may have asked yourself this very question time and time again. The truth is, there are many barriers to weight loss. These range from your healthcare provider’s office, to your place of employment, to your home, and within your own body. For instance, it’s time for your healthcare visit and you have gained a few pounds and know that you are in for the dreaded, “you need to lose weight…. it’s easy just exercise and eat less” speech. These suggestions are usually never followed by ideas about how to eat, when to

exercise, and what options may be available to you. You leave feeling as defeated as you did when you went. Maybe even feeling as if you were judged as being gluttonous or lazy.

Time constraints placed on providers in today’s healthcare environment make patient education nearly impossible.

Even though you have a job that requires you to sit all day, you are too exhausted to exercise when you are finished. You say to yourself, “I will start tomorrow or next week”, and those days never come. Unfortunately, most of our work environments are not con-

ducive to encouraging any additional activity other than what is required to do our jobs. Work activity, even in the most physically laborious job, is not enough to lose weight. Once you get home, chores of laundry, cleaning, cooking, chauffeuring your children to sports, etc. push you to the bottom of the totem pole. You think, “who has time for exercise and eating healthy, I’m in survival mode”. As you may have found, it appears that healthier food options are more expensive and you can’t budget for those expenditures. Sometimes, when everything is in place with exercise, nutrition, and

nutrition, and scheduling you just get discouraged due to the inability to push through a plateau. Maybe you have an underlying metabolic or other issue that needs to be addressed. Weight loss is an area of healthcare that requires a multi-faceted approach.

As you can see, there are many barriers to weight loss. If you can relate to any or all of these challenges, we welcome you to a practice that specializes only in bariatrics, or the treatment and study of obesity. Because this is what we specialize in, we have the time to devote to you and your individual circumstances to help you be successful one goal at a time. At Be Well, our medical professionals pride themselves in helping you break through barriers with supportive, nonjudgmental medically based help and encouragement. We will work as

a team to provide you with individualized plans based on proven and professional standards. Each patient receives nutritional and exercise counseling, physical exam, medication/ supplements (if desired), and ongoing support. All of this is provided by a physician, nurse practitioners, and nurses.

Over the last several years, our practice has helped hundreds of patients break through their barriers to achieve better overall health through sustained weight loss. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a patient lower their blood pressure, improve cholesterol, reduce A1C, and perhaps ultimately reduce the number of medications taken. Most patients deeply desire to enjoy life by feeling great and not being burdened by disease. We look forward to partnering with you.

No goal is too big or too small. Come in to meet with one of our friendly and professional nursing staff to start your weight loss journey. You can even visit our website or social media pages and reach out directly on your own time. You can also find more information about what we do, who we are and what we offer online.

Be Well Anti-Aging & Weight Loss is female owned by Heather Whittemore, Board Certified Nurse Practitioner, has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in behavior modification, plus she has a diploma in Nutritional Counseling and Weight Loss. She has had advanced training in all medical aesthetic procedures for your anti-aging needs as well. Heather hires only professional medical staff with a passion for helping others, making her and her team, the best of the best.

A Healthy Life Is Within Reach!

Do you want to take control of your health habits and be on your way to your healthy weight and/or aesthetic goals? Our main focus at Be Well is to help to do just this!

Wellness physically, mentally, and emotionally is one of the most important indicators of life longevity. If you want to improve your quality of life, we are here to partner with you to reach your wellness goals. Our team offers non-judgmental, medical-based recommendations for successful weight loss and aesthetic health. Each patients’ goals are our main priority.

Teeming with creativity, Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery (AWADG) stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and craftsmanship of custom woodworking. Celebrating its first year of operation, AWADG has already made significant strides under the guidance of Elizabeth Grant, a visionary with over 30 years of experience in interior design, building, and home furnishings.

Elizabeth’s journey into the world of custom woodworking was driven by her lifelong passion for crafting unique and meaningful pieces. At AWADG, this passion is brought to life by a team of local woodworkers who dedicate their skills to creating heirloom-quality furniture, cabinetry, and architectural design elements. The on-site woodworking shop not only serves as the heart of production but also

Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery

Crafting Heirlooms in Knoxville

as a bridge connecting clients directly with the artisans crafting their future heirlooms.

What sets AWADG apart is its commitment to producing one-of-a-kind, custom-built furniture and woodwork, tailored to the individual needs and visions of its clients. Working closely with interior designers, architects, builders, and homeowners, AWADG ensures that every piece is a reflection of personal style and excellence. The showroom/gallery further complements this by showcasing masterful craftsmanship alongside art by local and regional artists.

Elizabeth’s connection to the Knoxville community shines through her extensive volunteer work and fundraising efforts for local organizations and causes. From chairing designer showhouses to supporting Second Harvest food collections and the KBGA Green Thumb Gala, her commitment to giving back is unwavering.

AWADG is bustling with activity, offering unique events such as a Soapstone Pendant Carving workshop and preparing to celebrate its one-year anniversary with an Open House and special discounts. First Fridays at AWADG are not to be missed, featuring demonstrations, special events, and literary celebrations in honor of April’s reading and literacy acknowledgments.

For those seeking to infuse their spaces with the warmth and timeless beauty of custom woodwork, or to partake in the vibrant community events AWADG hosts, Elizabeth Grant is your go-to contact.

Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery is more than a woodworking shop; it’s a hub of creativity, craftsmanship, and community in Knoxville, dedicated to enriching homes and lives with the timeless beauty of custom woodwork.

Reach Elizabeth Grant at Info.AWADG@gmail.com or by phone at (865) 6865520. Discover more about the exquisite work and upcoming events at AWADG by following them on Facebook at Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery and on Instagram @artisanwoodworkingknoxville.

Seeing Through the Smoke

The Story of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

by Jennifer Watts

Many songs have been written about the Smoky Mountains. Many you might have heard, like “Rocky Top” and “On Top of Old Smokey.”

But what is the story behind the songs?

Are you ready to learn more? Let’s take a closer look at the story behind the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The mountains we call the Smokies were formed millions of years ago. They changed into what we see today over all that time. Many people have called them home for thousands of years. Archeologists have found artifacts that date back to over 10,000 years ago!

The Smokies got their name from the Cherokee people. They called it “Shacon-

their homes. They cleared the land to feed their animals and plant crops. They also hunted for food. Sometimes conflict between the two groups led to fighting.

In the 1830s, many of the Cherokee were forced to move west. More settlers began moving onto the land. By the 1900s, the land was owned mostly by farmers, timber companies, and paper factories. Small communities grew into big towns like Elkmont, Smokemont, Proctor, and Tremont. Over time, the beautiful forest was being cut down for lumber and paper products. People began to worry about the future of the mountains.

During the 1920s, a growing push

park. Another 150,000 acres had to be bought from the people who lived and worked there. Money to buy the land was raised by state legislatures and ordinary citizens. Even school children collected money! They raised $10 million! That land was the beginning of the park.

In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) worked to get the park ready for visitors. They built roads, bridges, hiking trails, and campgrounds for people to enjoy. In September of 1940, the park was officially opened by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt at Newfound Gap.

Today the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is over 500,000 acres be-

Statehood Day Celebration

Celebrate with Sequoyah Birthplace Museum with live demonstrations.

In the days before statehood, Tennesseans struggled to gain a political voice and suffered because North Carolina did not want the trouble or expense of protecting its western counties. The national government formed under the Articles of Confederation was too weak to meet the westerners’ demands.

In 1784, frustrated settlers formed the breakaway State of Franklin, also known as “Frankland.” The ever-popular John Sevier was named governor, and the state began operating as an independent but unrecognized government.

In 1795 a census taken that showed Tennessee’s population had grown to 77,262 which more than met the federal statehood requirement of 60,000 citizens. The next step in the statehood process was a vote by the citizens. Most citizens supported statehood which was easily approved by a vote of 6, 504 to 2, 562. Governor Blount called for a constitutional convention to meet in Knoxville, where delegates from all the counties drew up a model state constitution and democratic bill of rights. The Tennessee Constitution borrowed from the United States Constitution and the North Carolina Constitution. The constitution allowed free males 21 or older who owned land to vote without regard for race. Therefore, both white and free black men who met the requirements could vote. The voters chose John Sevier as governor. Tennessee leaders converted the territory into a state before asking Congress for approval. Since the Southwest Territory was the first Federal territory to apply for statehood, Congress was uncertain how to proceed. Members of the

Federalist party opposed statehood for Tennessee because they assumed voters in Tennessee would support their opponents, the Democratic-Republicans. Finally, Congress approved the admission of Tennessee as the sixteenth state of the Union on June 1, 1796. Knoxville was the first state capital.

So visit Sequoyah Museum to celebrate this important Tennessee Holiday. Their 1809 Blacksmith shop will be open with demonstrations going on throughout the afternoon. Come out and share the afternoon with living history in their 1800’s Dog-trot Log cabin. Learn about Cherokees in the Civil War.

The museum is named for Sequoyah, a Cherokee, who could not read or write in any language, who perfected a system for reading and writing the Cherokee language so that the nation and its heritage would live forever. Our acorn printing press will be doing demonstrations throughout the day. All Statehood Day activities are free and also enjoy free admission to the museum.

Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

A museum dedicated to the life and story of Sequoyah, creator of the Cherokee written language. 576 Highway 360, Vonore, TN | 423-884-6246 | www./sequoyahmuseum.org

Hours: Mon-Sat 9:00 - 5:00 Sunday 12:00 - 5:00

TOOLS AS ART: WORK & PLAY

MAY 3, 2024 - AUGUST 4, 2024

Drawn from the remarkable collection of John Hechinger, a hardware store magnate, and art collector, the 68 featured works in the exhibition present images of the most familiar tools as extraordinary works of art. Encompassing photographs, paintings, works on paper, and sculptures, the exhibition celebrates the value of labor and honors the creativity of builders, artists, hobbyists, and self-reliant DIYers. Featured artists include Colleen Barry, Debbie Fleming Caffery, Jim Dine, Claes Oldenburg, Maria Porges, James Surls, and Wayne Thiebaud. The renowned art collection of the late hardware magnate John Hechinger exemplifies this practical and artistic universality. Over his long career, Hechinger devoted much of his energy, playfulness, and passion to this collection, seeking out works from numerous genres and artists of many backgrounds, all of

them bound by a common theme: the democracy of the tool. In Work and Play, curator Sarah Tanguy explores interlocking principles: tools as icons of labor; labor as a component of creativity; creativity as a form of play; and the art of tools as the most incisive expression of their interrelatedness. This exhibition celebrates the virtues inherent in the art of the tool and highlights the astounding breadth of the Hechinger Collection by illuminating this unique, but ubiquitous, idiom.

About the Hechinger CollectionBOUT THE HECHINGER COLLECTION—The

complete Hechinger Collection, featuring nearly 400 works of art, was donated to IA&A in 2003 by hardware-industry pioneer John Hechinger, Sr. The collection’s contemporary prints, drawings, paintings, and sculptures represent a wealth of 20th-century art that incorporates tools and hardware by artists Berenice Abbott, Arman, Jim Dine, Walker Evans, Jacob Lawrence, Fernand Leger, and Claes Oldenburg, among others. The collection celebrates the ubiquity of tools in our lives with art that magically transforms utilitarian objects into fanciful works of beauty, surprise, and wit.

Tools as Art: Work and Play is organized from the Hechinger Collection and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, D.C. To learn more about the Knoxville Museum of Art and the upcoming exhibitions, visit www.knoxart.org

1050 World’s Fair Park Drive | Knoxville, TN 37916

865.525.6101 | FREE ADMISSIONS TUESDAY - SATURDAY: 10AM-5PM | SUNDAY: 1PM-5PM

IMAGE HEADER: Claes Oldenburg, KnifeShip, 1986, oil paint on saw, 30.5” X 36.25” X 2,” © Claes Oldenburg.

Punk vs Funk

Fleurish: A Sustainable Fashion Event & Fundraiser

The third annual Fleurish: A Sustainable Fashion Event (and Fundraiser) at Ijams Nature Center brings eco-friendly and sustainable Punk vs. Funk designs to the runway Sunday, April 21.

The fashion collaboration showcases how sustainability, conservation, and beauty intertwine with our lives and our future, and raises funds for the nonprofit nature center. Each year, local designers, hair stylists, and makeup artists join forces to create designs that incorporate sustainable materials and innovative recycling methods, and reuse what was once discarded.

The 2023 event built on the inaugural event in 2022, and featured sustainably sourced and upcycled fashions by 17 designers and 65+ models at the newly renovated pond on the Ijams Plaza.

This year’s event will be bigger and bolder, bringing together 25 designers who have created more than 100 looks for dueling runways featuring live music from Brent Hyder and others TBDW.

“Fleurish shows how the average consumer can make changes to their day-today lives while never losing sight of the beauty of nature and the human experience,” Ijams Visitor Services Director Sarah Brobst said. “These looks showcase how vintage clothing, found objects, and natural elements can be combined to create fresh, stunning looks. It’s the epitome of ‘upcycling,’ and this year’s theme is going to take it over the top!”

Brobst said the audience is highly encouraged to come dressed in their favorite punk or funk fashions.

“Audience participation will make it even more fun, and they’ll receive ‘bonus points’ if their outfits are thrifted or upcycled!” she added.

The cocktail hour from 6-7 p.m. will feature photo ops on the “green” carpet, ed-

ucation stations, and information about conservation efforts in the fashion realm, as well as a cash bar featuring punk and funk signature cocktails, and delicious bites from Coffee & Chocolate, Cafe 4, and The Kennedy. Following the fashion show, attendees will be able to meet the artists, designers, and models on the nature center’s hillside. Brobst said there may be some surprise elements as well.

Tickets are $30 and are available at Ijams.org/fleurish. All proceeds support Ijams Nature Center.

Fleurish: A Sustainable Fashion Show is sponsored by Clayton, Boston Beer Company, Kara Hudgens Photography, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, Coffee & Chocolate, Mountain Escapes, and HUSHH Magazine. Sponsorships are still available.

Ijams Nature Center is a 318-acre nonprofit educational center in the heart of Knoxville and serves visitors of all ages, stages, and abilities. Its mission is

to encourage stewardship of the natural world by providing an urban greenspace for people to learn about and enjoy the outdoors through engaging experiences. Ijams features 14 miles of hiking and mixed-use trails, a public access river dock, swimming, boating, biking, and so much more. Hundreds of world-class educational programs and events are coordinated and offered annually. Ijams’ grounds and trails are open every day from 8:00 AM until dusk. Tickets are available for Fleurish 2024 at www.ijams. org/fleurish

Photography by: Isabel Mezzcappa Photography

Protected Forever

Laurel Trace, 65 Acres protecting Crooked Branch

By Maria Maring | Land Conservation Coordinator

Directly adjacent to the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area lies 65 acres of beautiful forest.

Known as “Laurel Trace,” it’s part of a large protection corridor including Pickett State Forest and State Park, Pogue Creek State Natural Area, and Twin Arches. Now, it is permanently protected by TennGreen Land Conservancy as Laurel Trace Conservation Easement.

Protecting Laurel Trace is integral to the health of Crooked Branch, a Tennessee Exceptional Waters area that runs along the southern border of the property. This term is attributed to waterways which provide habitat for ecologically significant species, provide recreational opportunities, possess outstanding scenic or geological values, or have above average water quality standards.

In fact, the Tennessee State Wildlife Action Plan deems the land along Crooked Branch the highest possible protection priority.

Big South Fork is just that: big. Encompassing 125,000 acres in both Tennessee and Kentucky, it’s a premier destination for whitewater paddling, hiking, and rock climbing. Established in 1974, it was the first time the National River and the National Recreation Area designations were both assigned to one park. This delegation demonstrates just how important this area is for the wellness of both nature and people.

One of the most notable features of Big South Fork is its many natural bridges of sandstone rock. These bridges are formed when more erodible rock layers underneath disappear to time, leaving the stronger, self-supporting sandstone floating in mid-air. For example, the North Arch and South Arch on the Twin Arches Trail are 62 and 103 feet tall, respectively.

In 2023, TennGreen Land Conservancy partnered with Van Bunch and Corinne Giagnorio to permanently protect 65 acres with a conservation easement. The property, known as “Laurel Trace,” is directly adjacent to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and part of a large protec-

tion corridor, including Pickett State Forest and State Park, Pogue Creek State Natural Area, and Twin Arches.

Running along the southern border of Laurel Trace is Crooked Branch, a Tennessee Exceptional Waters area. This designation is attributed to waterways that provide habitat for ecologically significant species, provide recreational opportunities, possess outstanding scenic or geological values, or have above-average water quality standards.

Laurel Trace also boasts its fair share of rock features. It is peppered with rock-houses, shallow cavelike openings found at the base of bluffs. This unique habitat allows a wide variety of wildlife to thrive. In fact, 27 rare or endangered species are known to occur within a five-mile radius of the property.

The Laurel Trace conservation easement will allow Mr. Branch and Mrs. Giagnorio to continue to enjoy their home and the land recreationally, within a humble building envelope, and development on the rest of the property will be barred forever. They bought the property in 1998 when a company parceled many lots to establish a neighborhood within the legislative boundary of Big South Fork.

Concerned about the development’s impact on wildlife, landowners Van Bunch and Corinne Giagnorio purchased three lots on the dead-end road.

Over time though, six lots comprising 75 acres were sold back to Big South Fork. Later, an additional 75 acres were sold to the Park, too. These sales left Van and Corinne’s land an inholding to the Park.

“To ensure that the area stays protected, we placed our property in a conservation easement. So, as the sign says, it will be ‘Protected Forever,’ said Van.

To learn more about conservation easements, contact TennGreen’s experts now at land@tenngreen.org or (615) 329-4441 ext. 120

Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival

Festival to Feature Americana Legends Alongside Breakout Newcomers

Dogwood Arts is thrilled to announce the music lineup for the 2024 Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival, curated by The Dirty Guv’nahs and returning to World’s Fair Park in Downtown Knoxville, TN on Saturday, May 11, 2024. The 3rd annual event will feature Old Crow Medicine Show, The Dirty Guv’nahs, Maggie Rose, Amythyst Kiah, Grace Bowers and the Hodge Podge, and Wyatt Ellis. The lineup is a true celebration of Tennessee talent — with every act living and making music in the Volunteer State.

nated Chattanooga-native Amythyst Kiah, hailed by Rolling Stone as “one of Americana’s great up-and-coming secrets,” 17-year-old guitar phenomenon Grace Bowers, and one of the most-watched young musicians in bluegrass from right here in Blount County, Wyatt Ellis.

SAVE THE DATE SPRING EVENTS WITH DOGWOOD ARTS

FEB. 9 &10: 10AM - 6PM

Celebrating 25 years of making music in 2023, Old Crow Medicine Show has established itself as America’s most beloved Old-Time String Bands and one of Nashville’s most revered musical torchbearers. Their signature song “Wagon Wheel” is one of the most widely sung folk songs in history and was recently certified by RIAA as one of the top five country singles of all time. Maggie Rose, who just celebrat ed her 100th appearance at the Grand Ole Opry on 12/5, is returning to Southern Skies for the second time; her first performance was at the 2022 event. She has since collaborated with The Dirty Guv’nahs on two singles on their 2023 album, Roots (‘Save Me’ and ‘Don’t Do It’) and shared stages across the country with everyone from Kelly Clarkson to Eric Church. The rest of the lineup includes Grammy-nomi

FEBRUARY 9-11 | KNOX CONVENTION CENTER

FEB. 11: 10AM - 4PM

APRIL 1-30

DOGWOOD TRAILS & OPEN GARDENS

APRIL 6

250+ EXHIBITORS MAKER MARKET PLANT SALES

General Admission (Early Bird) tickets are $49.50, or attendees can purchase VIP (Early Bird) tickets for $135. The VIP Experience includes access to a premium viewing area, hangout space with private bars and restrooms, festival merchandise, and more. The festival also includes a new collaboration with the Tennessee Distillers Guild called the Tennessee Whiskey Experience. The top distilleries from across the state of Tennessee will serve a wide variety of whiskey and other unique, handcrafted spirits in this exclusive space inside the festival. Pass holders will have the opportunity to learn more about the art of distilling, barrel aging, and the history of each distillery alongside live music from 2-6PM. The Tennessee Whiskey Experience is a $50 add-on to either a General Admission or VIP ticket purchase. Children 10 & under get free admission to the festival (with the exception of the VIP and Whiskey Experience areas). Tickets can be purchased online now at southernskiesfest.com/tickets.

HOW-TO STAGE GRAND GARDENS KID’S AREA

Southern Skies is produced by Dogwood Arts and curated by The Dirty Guv’nahs. For more information, visit www.southernskiesmusicfestival.com, and follow on Facebook, Twitter @ southernskies_, and Instagram @southernskiesfest. Dogwood Arts, presented by ORNL Federal Credit Union, is a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to promote and celebrate our region’s art, culture, and natural beauty.

CHALK WALK

APRIL 20-21 SPRING FEATURED GARDENS

APRIL 26-28

DOGWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL

Our facility comes with spacious, supervised playrooms where dogs are placed according to their size, temperament, and play style to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for your beloved pet. 5213 Homberg Dr, Knoxville, TN 37919 865.622.2599 Dogtopia.com/BeardenKnoxville

Stargaze with the Past

Join Marble Springs State Historic Site for a unique chance to gaze at the heavens surrounded by history

What’s one thing we’ve engaged in since the dawn of humankind? Looking up at the stars.

Stargazing is, in essence, taking part in an ancient ritual, connecting us to our ancestors. Looking up at the tapestry of a night sky connects us with all of humanity, past and present, and therefore, can create all the difference in ourselves and the world.

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the cosmos at our highly anticipated Stargazing event, taking place on the weekend before Earth Day, April 20th, from 6 PM to 11 PM!

Partnering with the esteemed University of Tennessee Physics Department, we invite you to join us for an evening of celestial exploration and wonder.

Attendees will have the chance to witness nature’s celestial fireworks with the possibility of sightings from both the Eta Aquarid and Lyrid meteor

showers.

From Space.com: “The upcoming Eta Aquarid meteor shower, will be active between April 15 and May 27, with its peak on the night of May 4 and predawn hours of May 5. The Lyrid meteor shower, which occurs between April 16-25 every year and will next peak on the night of April 22, 2024.”

While sightings cannot be guaranteed, attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the night sky and explore the cosmos.

Graduate students from the Physics Department will be available to provide engaging talks on various astronomical phenomena.

Enhance your stargazing comfort by bringing along a quilt or outdoor seating to sit upon while we gaze upon the night sky’s breathtaking beauty.

Marble Springs’ open green spaces will provide the perfect setting for this memorable night, away from the lights of downtown, ensuring an enchanting stargazing experience.

Admission is free, but RSVPs on Zeffy are encouraged. Bring your own telescope or cozy up with a lawn chair for an unforgettable evening of cosmic exploration.

For more information and to RSVP, visit our Facebook event or this link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/49ab0820-c9c7-414c-9086-d43ea88e69c9 1220 West Governor John Sevier Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920 | www.marblesprings.net

3

7

may

Don’t miss out on these upcoming events this May.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™ in Concert

KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM | 500 HOWARD BAKER JR. AVENUE, KNOXVILLE | 7:30 PM

The Harry Potter™ film series is one of those once-in-a-lifetime cultural phenomena that continues to delight millions of fans around the world. This concert will feature a live symphony orchestra performing every note from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Audiences will be able to relive the magic of the film in high-definition on a 40-foot screen while hearing the orchestra perform John Williams’ unforgettable score. Tickets $64-$186

Bark in the Park

I.C. KING PARK | 3440 ALCOA HWY, KNOXVILLE | 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Join us for our annual Bark in the Park! With Local Pet Vendors, Mobile Groomers, Adoptions, a Talent Show, and more, you don’t want to miss this event with your furry best friend! As always, this event is free to the public, so come on out!

7

14 21 28

20 thru 26

Concerts on the Square

MARKET SQUARE MALL | 18 MARKET SQUARE, KNOXVILLE | EVERY TUESDAY 7:00 PM

Spend relaxing evenings in the heart of Downtown Knoxville enjoying Concerts on the Square. The series kicks off on May 7 with Jazz concerts every Tuesday at 7pm through June 25. Plus, May-September enjoy concerts on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, grab dinner on a Market Square patio, and listen to talented musicians fill the Square! Best of all: it’s free! Free parking is available in all City owned garages after 6pm. Market Square Garage, Locust Street Garage, State Street Garage, and Langley Garage are the closest.

2024 Visit Knoxville Open

HOLSTON HILLS COUNTRY CLUB | 5200 HOLSTON HILLS RD, KNOXVILLE | TIME VARIES

Come see and feel the excitement as we start a new chapter in our tournament’s history. As we continue the Korn Ferry Tour tradition and promote our community’s pride as one of the four remaining original tour events, we look forward to a stellar tournament. Experience the excitement as these competitors vie for their PGA TOUR cards and share in the sportsmanship as we celebrate our 33-year heritage as a founding event on the Korn Ferry Tour. Tickets are available for purchase at visitknoxopen.com. Please note that there is no onsite parking and shuttle information can be found at visitknoxopen.com.

Have an event you would like featured here?

Email it to info@hushh.club

MAY MAY

BOB WATT YOUTH FISHING RODEO

Saturday, May 11 | Ages 12 & under Two sessions: 8am-9am AND 10am11am.

Join us for the 40th Annual Bob Watt Youth Fishing Rodeo at Anchor Park, where participants will compete to see who can catch the biggest fish!

Registration will open April 1st, spots are limited.

JUNE

CHALK THE PARK

Saturday, June 8, 10am-noon | FREE

All Ages will kick off summer with this family-friendly event where we all get to be parking lot Picassos! Yard games, crafts and lots of chalk will be available. Registration is encouraged.

FAMILY CAMPOUT

Friday, June 21-Saturday June 22, 4pm-10am | $30/per family up to 4, $10 per additional family members. Sleep under the stars with Farragut Parks & Rec! Activities include games, campfire, flashlight scavenger hunt & more! Dinner & breakfast is included.

Register beginning May 1st.

Family must suply own tent & sleeping bags.

To register or find out more information about an event or program, please visit farragutparksandrec.org or call Farragut Community Center at 865-218-3376

Rethinking Adoption Fundraising

Why the Empty Cup pours its net profits out in adoption grants

There are millions of children literally waiting to be adopted, and the number one reason why families don’t pursue adoption is money. That’s why we created The Empty Cup.

It’s a space where our community can come together and give what they have to offer a tangible way to support adoption. Churches are pouring in, local businesses are pouring in, families, artists, and professionals are all pouring in—all to benefit adoption. Every single one of us has something to offer.

Why is it called the Empty Cup? As the community pours into The Empty Cup by purchasing coffee, visiting the marketplace, or donating time, the coffeehouse will pour its net profit back out in the form of adoption grants. That’s why the cup stays empty.

The Empty Cup is a new kind of coffeehouse that is a gathering space with excellent coffee, local food, a market place, and live music. But it goes

beyond that. The goal is to rethink how adoption fundraising is done. The Empty Cup will become a sustainable source for adoption fundraising. As people pour into The Empty Cup, they will pour back out to local families in the form of adoption grants.

Our advice? When thinking about adoption, talk with any and all adoption related agencies and people who have gone through the process. Seek out people who YOU feel comfortable with and have the expertise to walk with you step by step.

A great first step is to go to the Knox Area Foster Care and Adoption Ministries website. They can provide you with information about adoption agencies, services, support, attorneys, foster care PATH classes, and oh, so much more! www.kafcam.org

Knox Area Foster Care and Adoption Ministries mission is to encourage, equip, and connect people to make the gospel visible through adoption, foster, and kinship care rooted in the

local church in the Knoxville, TN area. They are an alliance of church and community foster care and adoption ministries and organizations that coordinate activities, share lessons learned, provide family support, and raise awareness of the needs of vulnerable children in our city. KAFCAM was started in 2014 and is currently made up of approximately 20 churches and 45 partner organizations. They have remained a strict alliance and is not a non-profit. It is important to us that we not compete for funding from local churches and partners.

If you want to learn more, we host quarterly Community Connection events. Each quarter we target one of our primary audiences (Faith Leaders, Post-Adoptive/Current Foster Families, Social Workers, and Prospective Foster and Adoptive Families) and provide an educational event specific to that audience. Sign up for updates on our website.

PLAN YOUR SPRINGTIME WITH DOGWOOD ARTS!

PLAN YOUR SPRINGTIME WITH DOGWOOD ARTS!

APRIL 1 - 30

APRIL 1 - 30

DOGWOOD TRAILS, OPEN GARDENS AND CAMERA SITES

DOGWOOD TRAILS, OPEN GARDENS AND CAMERA SITES

APRIL 6 CHALK WALK

APRIL 6 CHALK WALK

APRIL 20 - 21

APRIL 20 - 21

SPRING FEATURED GARDENS

SPRING FEATURED GARDENS

APRIL 26 - 28

APRIL 26 - 28

Whether you choose to get married inside or outside at the pond, there are many options to make your event a one-of-akind celebration. Let Celebration Chalet provide you with the perfect venue for an unforgettable moment!

Our large indoor room will accommodate up to 100 in a theater setting or up to 50 in a dining setting, plus a pond with an island for a small wedding party.

DOGWOODARTS.COM

DOGWOODARTS.COM

DOGWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL 865-637-4561 123 W JACKSON AVE

DOGWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL 865-637-4561 123 W JACKSON AVE

Your rental time will include tables, chairs and table linens as well as use of the various decor we have on hand. There will also be at least one staff person present during your stay to answer any questions you may have. Simply tell us what you need and when you walk through the door it will all be set up waiting for your final decorating touches.