North/East Shopper-News 120915

NORTH / EAST VOL. 3 NO. 49

| pp www.ShopperNewsNow.com

Parade kicks off holiday season

BUZZ Fun Friday at Chilhowee Park XFinity Christmas in Chilhowee is set for 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11. The free event will feature live music and a train ride, a visit with Santa Claus, and lighting of the tree on the Chilhowee Park and Exposition Center’s bandstand.

The city-sponsored event is designed for families.

Build a gingerbread house with the Austin-East’s Culinary Arts Department. Enjoy marshmallow roasting and hot cocoa by the Salvation Army, face painting and balloon animals.

Stop by The Muse Knoxville tent for a special activity. Or join the children and American Red Cross volunteers as they create greeting cards to be mailed to U.S. servicemen and women overseas. Among Friday’s musical guests will be the John T. O’Connor Center’s Singing Seniors.

While you’re there, check out the light display – a total of 78 lighted trees, plus 20 lighted trees floating on the park’s lake. Motorists touring the park through Jan. 1 can drive through the lighted tunnel.

Info: knoxvilletn.gov/ christmas

‘Wonderful Life’ Home Federal Bank invites the public to enjoy its Christmas gift to the community – two free screenings of “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Tennessee Theatre at 1 and 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13. Doors will open one hour prior to screening.

“We’ve been presenting this holiday classic film for six years, and we appreciate this opportunity to make the holidays brighter for so many,” Home Federal Bank president Dale Keasling said.

The event is free, and no ticket is required.

Seating is limited to the theater’s capacity. Convenient, free parking is available in the State Street garage, 520 State Street.

The Tennessee Theatre is located at 604 S. Gay St. in downtown Knoxville.

Patrons with special needs should call 865-684-1200.

Ed and Bob At-large county commissioners Ed Brantley and Bob Thomas will ring the Salvation Army red kettle bells from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at the West Town Mall entrance near Charming Charlie’s.

Everyone is invited to stop by to talk with Ed and Bob about items of interest. Other commissioners may join them in the fundraising effort.

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December 9, 2015

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Parade grand marshal Fred Graves Jr. and his wife, Billie, officially open the Fountain City Christmas parade.

By Ruth White It was a beautiful morning in Fountain City as the holiday season kicked off with the annual Fountain City Christmas parade.

Residents lined up and down Broadway to watch as cheerleading teams and, bands from Central High and Fulton High entertained, sports teams from Central including boys basketball, softball, football and swim team, Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops, twirlers and several church groups handed out candy.

To page 3

Cayden Williams and Kisha Young ride on the Ridgeview Baptist Church float.

Cayden is part of the church ministry, Sunshine Bunch junior clowns.

Aliyah Collazo, Baby Bobcats homecoming queen, waves to parade watchers along Broadway.

Ijams taps Darnell as outdoor adventure coordinator

By Betsy Pickle

Benjy Darnell is the new outdoor adventure coordinator for Ijams Nature Center.

Until last Friday, Darnell was the general manager for Navitat Canopy Adventures, which is Benjy Darnell based at Ijams. He started his Ijams duties on Tuesday.

Jennifer Roder, Ijams’ education coordinator, says that while the center was looking for some-

one with Darnell’s skill set for the newly created position, they were “thrilled” but surprised that he “threw his hat in the ring.”

“We’ve seen such a dramatic growth in our opportunities with some of our recreational partners, like Navitat and RiverSports, that we think this is a market that has the potential to grow and grow and grow,” says Roder. “So we think now’s the time to find someone who can dedicate all of their work toward maximizing our partnerships and providing really exciting ways for people to get outdoors.”

“I’ve been pushing this idea for

four or five years,” says Darnell, who previously ran the outdoor program at the University of Tennessee. “I feel like Knoxville is at the perfect place: You’ve got baby boomers who are still active and want to get outside and do all this stuff. You’ve got my generation, the Gen Xers, who … love the outdoors. And we’ve got kids now.”

He thinks this addition to Ijams’ offerings is “going to help create a healthy community.”

“I’m excited to build this synergy, the passion that we are surrounded by, especially at Ijams. It combines the natural resources,

To page 3

‘Golden parachute’ or fair reward, McIntyre’s contract signals bumpy year ahead

By Betty Bean As expected, schools superintendent James McIntyre won his battle for job security by a 5-4 vote last week when the school board extended his employment contract for another two years. This agreement will be in place until the end McIntyre of 2019 and gives him a 2 percent raise, bumping his salary up to $227,256.

The five pro-McIntyre board members (Harris, Carson, Deathridge, Sanger, Fugate) said it is well deserved, mostly based on Knox County Schools’ status as an Exemplary School District.

The major objection of the four board members who voted against the extension (McMillan, Rountree, Bounds, Hill) can be summed up in three words:

Finally, board member Karen Carson’s motion to approve the contract subject to an attorney general’s review was approved. State Rep. Harry Brooks will ask for the opinion.

Pending AG approval, the agreement guarantees McIntyre a paycheck for the duration of the term if some future school board votes to remove him without a finding of wrongdoing.

As of Jan. 1, the buyout will be just over $1 million, and it is certain to become a major issue in the 2016 school board elections.

Only 21 citizens signed up to Board member Amber Roun- speak at the special called meettree’s request for a two-month ing, far fewer than the last conpostponement was summar- tract extension meeting when ily shot down because a contract hundreds of teachers, parents and vote cannot come within 30 days interested citizens turned out to of a county election. She did get a protest McIntyre’s adherence to a 15-minute recess to look it over af- high-stakes testing protocol that ter board member Terry Hill also went beyond that which is recomplained of not having an op- quired by the state. portunity to study the document.

A substantial majority of those “What’s the hurry?”

They complained of not having enough time to study the finalized contract because it was presented to them just minutes before the meeting called to consider it. They also complained of being presented with two “final” versions – one endorsed by board chair Doug Harris, and the other produced by Law Director Bud Armstrong, who warned that there are “ambiguities” that must be sorted out.

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the adventure-based recreation and environmental learning opportunities. I think it’s the perfect palette for world-class experiential education here in Knoxville.”

Roder says one of the goals for the outdoor adventure coordinator is to expand activities for children beyond the summer camps they run for the Boys & Girls Club into year-round programming that will include the Boys & Girls Club and “also groups like Wesley House and the city of Knoxville recreation centers.”

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21 citizens – including parents, teachers, both retired and currently employed, plus Knox County Education Association president Lauren Hopson – opposed the extension. On the other side were Knoxville Police Chief David Rausch, Chief Deputy Eddie Biggs of the county sheriff’s office and former police chief Phil Keith, who joined a handful of KCS principals in praising McIntyre’s performance.

But in the end, it didn’t matter what the speakers said. They were just the legally required frosting on McIntyre’s $1 million cake, and clearly had no bearing on that night’s highly predictable vote.

The superintendent won the battle, and he’d better savor his victory, because the timing and the manner and the cost of his contract extension will be debated thoroughly in the spring’s school board elections.

And that will be war.

2 • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • Shopper news

health & lifestyles

‘Phenomenal’ treatment

for Knoxville man battling Stage IV melanoma As an avid outdoorsman, Travis Maryanski of Knoxville was perhaps in the best shape of his life two years ago, when he began a signi cant battle with cancer.

In November 2013, he found a lump under the skin on his neck. Tests revealed it was Stage IV melanoma, a life-threatening type of cancer.

“I thought melanoma was only a skin disease, but they never found a spot on my skin that even remotely looked precancerous or even of concern,” said Maryanski, now 42.

“This was under the skin. It was melanoma in my lymph node. There is no good time to receive that type of news, especially the day before Thanksgiving.”

In December, Maryanski underwent surgery to remove lymph nodes on the side of his face and neck. Meanwhile, more tests revealed the cancer had spread to a spot in his brain.

His doctors recommended gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery at the Fort Sanders Regional Gamma Knife Center at Thompson Cancer Survival Center. Fort Sanders has the newest and most advanced Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion machine, one of only 30 in the United States.

In gamma knife radiosurgery, specialized equipment focuses close to 200 tiny beams of radiation through the skull and into the brain tumor. Although each beam has very little effect on the brain tissue it passes through, a strong dose of radiation is delivered to the site where all the beams meet.

On Jan 2, 2014, at 6 a.m., Maryanski was scheduled for gamma knife surgery at Fort Sanders. He was surprised to nd a large support group of family and friends at the hospital at dawn.

“The staff had to deal with a group of

Travis Maryanski was treated for Stage IV melanoma at the Fort Sanders Gamma Knife Center at Thompson Cancer Survival Center. He’s now cancer free.

friends I didn’t know were going to be there. did all the prep work was phenomenal.”

They all showed up,” he said with a laugh.

The procedure itself is minimally invasive, “I was surprised that they didn’t kick that involves no cutting, and Maryanski went group out of the hospital. The nurse who home the same day. Although the radiation

itself is painless, the tted guidance helmet on his head was not comfortable, he said.

“They bolt a frame to your skull, which hurts pretty bad, I have to admit … it’s not fun. But they give you medicine that makes you not care,” said Maryanski. “As far as the procedure goes, it’s painless. And then you go home.”

Over the next few days and weeks, the radiation destroyed the cancerous spot in his brain, and Maryanski said it has not spread or grown. Maryanski has also participated in a clinical trial for a vaccine against melanoma recurrence, at the University of Virginia.

He is looking forward to returning to running and mountain biking someday.

“I’m still feeling the side effects from the vaccine, but I’m alive and at least for now, I am cancer free. It’s a small price to pay,” he said.

Maryanski said he would recommend Thompson Cancer Survival Center and Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center to anyone facing cancer.

“There’s a different standard of care when you go in for cancer. The folks at Thompson really get it. They were phenomenal. They deal with people going through nasty stuff, and they know how to do it correctly. I go in for MRIs on my brain and CT scans on my body every three months, and the stress leading up to the scans and the wait for results is overwhelming, but the relief of clean scans is beyond words.

“The reality is that I am alive and happy with my life,” said Maryanski.

“When it comes to cancer, everyone struggles, the patient, their friends, and their family. My hope for everyone dealing with this disease is that every day is better than the previous one.”

Brain surgery without the ‘surgery’

Symptoms and treatment of brain tumors Symptoms of brain tumors can be subtle at rst, but they increase as the tumor grows larger.

“The symptoms of brain tumors are weakness, headache – especially one that’s worse in morning – nausea, and vomiting if the tumor is big enough,” said Dr. Paul Peterson, neurosurgeon with Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center and Fort Sanders Neurosurgery and Spine.

There are ve main approaches to the treatment of brain tumors, and most patients receive a combination of therapies, depending on their speci c needs.

Surgery – The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without damaging the surrounding brain tissue. At the very least, the surgeon will get a sample of the tumor for a biopsy, but in many cases the tumor can be removed.

The biopsy reveals whether the tumor is cancerous or not.

Radiation therapy – Using X-rays,

gamma rays or proton beams, radiation therapy is used either to shrink tumors before surgery, or as a follow up to surgery to get rid of any residual cancer cells left. Some types of radiation are used on non-cancerous tumors as well.

Chemotherapy – Medications that kill cancer cells are often used after surgery to reduce the chance the tumor will grow and spread.

Targeted therapy – New medicines being tested in clinical trials work differently than standard chemotherapy.

Instead of killing all cells, they target certain types of cells in an effort to stop tumors.

Watchful waiting – For slow-growing tumors, this approach involves regular monitoring of the tumor without actively removing it.

For more information about treatment options for brain tumors at Fort Sanders Regional, call 865673-3678 or visit fsregional.com

The Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion machine has treated nearly 400 patients since coming to Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in 2011. And both physicians and patients are delighted with the results. “I continue to be amazed by the tumor reduction we receive using gamma knife technology,” says Dr. David H. Hauge, Medical Director of the Fort Sanders Gamma Knife Center.

Using the Gamma Knife radiosurgery system requires a team effort. “We have both neurosurgeons and radiation oncologists together in the pre-treatment evaluation, as well as the actual procedure. Specially-trained radiation physicists and nurses also help ensure a safe and pleasant experience for the patient,” explains Hauge.

Despite its name, the gamma knife is not really a “knife.” There’s no cutting, no anesthesia and no hospitalization afterward. Radiation energy is targeted through the skull and into brain tumors, destroying them while leaving healthy tissue unharmed in the process. Treatments can last less than two hours, and patients go home the same day.

Gamma knife can also be used to treat a number of other brain disorders, like non-cancerous tumors of the pituitary gland, tumors of the ear or eye nerves, or malformations of the blood vessels in the brain.

Fort Sanders is an “open” center, meaning gamma knife credentialed and trained physicians in the area are welcome to use the technology. Five neurosurgeons and ve radiation

Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year. fsregional.com • (865) 673-FORT

oncologists from Knoxville area hospitals participate regularly at the Fort Sanders Gamma Knife Center.

The biggest bene t of the gamma knife is its ability to treat multiple tumors at once – up to 15 or more. The Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion is designed to allow treatment of multiple metastatic brain tumors developed from primary cancers outside the brain such as lung, breast, ovarian, colorectal, kidney and melanoma.

The gamma knife is much safer than other radiosurgical tools for brain tumors because it does not expose the rest of the brain or body to radiation. “We can deliver the treatment with pinpoint precision,” explains Fort Sanders neurosurgeon Dr. Joel Norman. “When you’re delivering radiation to the brain, particularly around the brain stem or optic nerves that control eyesight, precision is everything.”

Dr. Hauge agrees. “In a recent study, gamma knife was shown to deliver far less radiation to the rest of the body outside the brain than any other currently available cranial radiosurgical technology.”

However, while the gamma knife is one-of-akind in the area, it is not a cure for everything.

Some tumors of the brain will still need traditional surgery. “Gamma knife adds another treatment option for patients with brain cancers or other con-cancerous abnormalities in the brain,” says Dr. Norman.

For more information about the Fort Sanders Gamma Knife Center, call 865541-4000.

NORTH/EAST Shopper news • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • 3

Noweta Garden Club has busy fall

community Volunteering at any age

By Cindy Taylor

Centerpiece designed by Lana McMullen for the Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs.

Noweta Garden Club member Lana McMullen designed a centerpiece for the Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs District IV membership luncheon. The only rules were “autumn with candy.” The work was not only beautiful but delicious, too.

The mantles at the Powell Branch Library have a new look for the season thanks to Noweta members.

The group also attended a workshop at Racheff House and Gardens presented by the District IV judges council on “Writing a Flower Show Schedule.”

President Judy Eubanks handed out flower show schedules for the upcoming show to be held in conjunction with the Dogwoods Arts HGTV Home & Garden Show on Feb. 12-14. The show, “Coexistence: Harmony with Nature’s Majesty,” will depict the work of nature and the importance of living in harmony.

COMMUNITY NOTES ■ Alice Bell Spring Hill Neighborhood Association. Info: Ronnie Collins, 637-9630.

■ Beaumont Community Organization. Info: Natasha Murphy, 936-0139.

■ Belle Morris Community Action Group meets 7 p.m. each second Monday, City View Baptist Church, 2311 Fine Ave. Info: bellemorris. com or Rick Wilen, 524-5008.

■ Chilhowee Park Neighborhood Association meets 6:30 p.m. each last Tuesday, Administration Building, Knoxville Zoo. Info: Paul Ruff, 696-6584.

■ Edgewood Park Neighbor-

The design created to feature a favorite holiday during a recent workshop. The entry was for favorite holiday. Photos submitted

hood Association meets 7 p.m. each third Tuesday, Larry Cox Senior Center, 3109 Ocoee Trail. Info: edgewoodpark.us.

■ Excelsior Lodge No. 342 meets 7:30 p.m. each Thursday, 10103 Thorn Grove Pike.

Info: Bill Emmert, 933-6032 or w.emmert@att.net.

■ First District Democrats meet each first Monday, Burlington Branch Library, 4614 Asheville Highway. Info: Harold Middlebrook, haroldmiddlebrook@gmail.com; Mary Wilson, marytheprez@ yahoo.com.

■ Historic Fourth & Gill Neighborhood Organization meets 6:30 p.m. each second Monday, Central UMC, 201 Third Ave. Info: Liz Upchurch, 898-1809, lizupchurch1@ gmail.com.

The design project for the favorite project category is titled “Celebration.”

■ Inskip Community Association meets 6 p.m. each fourth Tuesday, Inskip Baptist Church, 4810 Rowan Road. Info: Betty Jo Mahan, 679-2748 or bettymahan@ knology.net.

■ Oakwood Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association meets 6:30 p.m. each first Monday, Community Club House, 916 Shamrock Ave. Info: Bill Hutton, 773-5228 or s_wlhutton@yahoo.com.

■ Old North Knoxville meets 6:30 p.m. each second Monday, St. James Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 1101 N. Broadway. Info: Andie Ray, 548-5221.

■ Parkridge Community Organization meets 6:30 p.m. each first Monday except holidays, Cansler YMCA, 616 Jessamine St. Info: Jerry

Ijams Darnell, who helped to create Ijams Crag, has climbed, kayaked, biked and backpacked for “years and years,” so his love for the outdoors is deeply embedded. But he says his passion lies in creating outdoor educational programming that is accessible to all populations and gives opportunities so people can

CALL FOR ARTISTS ■ Arts in the Airport: juried exhibition allows regional artists to compete and display work at McGhee Tyson Airport secured area behind the security gate checkpoint March 17-Oct. 12. Theme: “Smoky Mountain Air Show.”

Entries deadline: midnight Sunday, Feb. 7. Info/application: knoxalliance.com; Suzanne Cada, 523-7543 or sc@knoxalliance.com.

■ Dogwood Arts Festival: juried artists are selected to exhibit and sell their original work in mixed media, clay, drawing/pastels, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, painting, photography, sculpture and wood in April. Info/application: dogwoodarts.com.

■ Gallery of Arts Tribute: a juried exhibition developed to recognize local artists and honor the life and times of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Artwork should be delivered 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Jan. 4-5. Entry form: knoxalliance.com/MLK.htm; or SASE to Arts & Culture Alliance, P.O. Box 2506, Knoxville TN 37901. Info: Suzanne Cada, 523-7543 or sc@knoxalliance.com.

■ Scruff y City Art Contest: a juried art exhibit competition celebrating Knoxville’s blend of Southern history and modern development on the banks of the Tennessee River. Free and open to all artists. Submissions deadline: Feb. 15. Info: liz-beth. com/contest.

The theme for this design is favorite trip and it depicts a trip to McCloud Mountain where hawks fly below the windows of a restaurant.

Caldwell, 329-9943.

■ Second District Democrats meet 6 p.m. each second Thursday, New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 2504 Cecil Ave. Info: Rick Staples, 385-3589 or funnyman1@ comic.com.

■ Thorn Grove Rebekah Lodge No. 13 meets 7:30 p.m. each second and fourth Monday, 10103 Thorn Grove Pike. Info: Mary Jo Poole, 599-7698 or mjp1101@aol.com.

■ Town Hall East. Info: Eston Williams, 406-5412 or eston_williams@yahoo.com; facebook.com/townhalleast/ info.

A visit to the John T. O’Connor Senior Center is always fun. You may meet someone famous. Like Dana Duncan.

Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett recently declared Aug. 7 as Dana Duncan Day – and with good reason.

Duncan has been serving Knox County in the Foster Grandparent Program since 2004. She has logged more than 1,044 hours mentoring youth, mostly at the Vestal Boys & Girls Club.

To qualify as a mentor she undergoes monthly training at the O’Connor Center or LT Ross Building. She volunteers at least 20 hours each week to mentor children from elementary age through high school. And she is 90 years old.

“I worked for the YWCA before I retired,” she said.

“When my husband passed away I wanted to go back to work, so I started volunteering.”

Children served by the Foster Grandparent Program come from economically disadvantaged homes or have special or exceptional needs. Duncan says one of her favorite students was a young man who had epilepsy. She helped get him to see a doctor for the diagnosis. She says all seniors should try mentoring.

“If they don’t like it they can always stop,” she said. “I love all the children and try to help them all with their studies.”

Toija Sandifer is the Foster Grandparent coordinator for Senior Corps.

“I met Dana Duncan last March, and she immediately embraced me,” said Sandifer. “She is a role model for seasoned citizens

glades,” says Darnell. “Such an awesome trip.”

Darnell, who grew up in Powell, lives in South Knoxville with his wife, Kelley, and their three young sons.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in therapeutic education and his master’s in recreation administration from UT.

Parade

From page 1

Several organizations brought large, colorful floats including the larger-thanlife plumbers on a Super Mario Brothers float and the custom-built stage for band members of One Life Church to sing rockin’ Christmas carols.

Parade traditions such

as a nativity scene, the Fountain City Candy Cane Queens, the Kerbela Temple Corvettes and more clowns than can fit into a small car added color and fun to the festivities.

Bill Gentry organized the parade, sponsored by the Knoxville Optimist Club.

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who wish to maintain community ties. It is a magnetic situation between her and the kids, and they are very protective of her. They love her. We need more like her.”

Deisha Finley is the Senior Corps manager. According to Finley, there are currently more than 100 Foster Grandparents serving more than 400 children in Knox and Blount counties.

“The heartwarming relationships Duncan has developed with after-school participants are yielding proven positive results,” said Finley. “She is an exemplary role model.”

Duncan doesn’t drive anymore, so she is often chauffeured by her daughter-in-law, Nikki Duncan.

“We take her wherever she wants to go,” said Nikki Duncan. “We just want to make sure she is OK.” Duncan says she plans to continue in her role of mentor for as long as she can.

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From page 1 do things “they never even realized that they could do.”

Roder says Darnell will have the scope to broaden programming beyond Ijams proper, leading overnight and even extended trips.

“One of my dream trips to do is birding and sea kayaking in the Florida Ever-

Dana Duncan, 90, volunteers at O’Connor Senior Center

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4 • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • Shopper news

Curt Maggitt: What might have been I’ve never done this before. Mixing John Greenleaf Whittier and Tennessee football is really different.

How the Quaker poet knew about the forthcoming Curt Maggitt a hundred years before his time is a wee bit puzzling but this famous line was a perfect fit.

“Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, ‘It might have been.’”

As today’s rhymes go, that translates in the general direction of shoulda, coulda, woulda.

Curt Maggitt, natural leader, fierce hitter, was going to be something like Al Wilson. He was a raging bull of a linebacker with an uncanny knack for sacking quarterbacks. Many he didn’t reach in time but they

Marvin West

always knew he was coming. Several he alarmed.

Some he intimidated. A few he terrified.

Curt never reached full potential. He was often preseason all-SEC – and unfortunate. He spent serious time trying to recover from injuries and repairs. He was a rehabilitation superstar.

Unusual background: Lane Kiffin recruited Curt out of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., but he wasn’t coming to Tennessee. A brother was

at Iowa State. Teammates were already at Florida. And Florida State wanted him.

And Alabama and LSU. As the story goes, the Gators eliminated themselves. There were too many arrests and an assistant coach, visiting the Maggitt home, propped his feet on the coffee table.

In a surprise, Derek Dooley signed Curt Maggitt.

He started as a freshman.

There was one heck of a play in his first game as a sophomore, a chase and hit on the North Carolina State quarterback took away 18 yards and forced a fumble which became a safety – as in wow!

Meanwhile, Curt was bothered by turf toe and a shoulder stinger. He suffered a season-ending knee injury with two games to go.

It really hurt Butch Jones that this potentially great player wasn’t ready for 2013. The new coach had to explain the realities of redshirting. Curt could get well, better and stronger and meanwhile help the team by staying involved.

That did not lift Maggitt’s spirits. Butch tried Talk 2.

“Only you can control your response to adversity.”

In April 2014, Curt Maggitt was the first recipient of the Al Wilson Leadership Award. It recognized the most influential leader from spring practice. Maggitt, always humble, was more humble.

“I’m definitely excited with it being the first and it’s Al Wilson for sure,” Maggitt said. “It’s monumental. I’m a decent leader but I know I can get a lot better.”

Curt had a good junior season. At 6-4 and 252, he most often lined up at defensive end and was too quick and crusty for several offensive tackles. Maggitt tied for 12th in the nation with 11 sacks.

This year, he missed spring practice. UT discovered belatedly that he needed shoulder surgery for a previous injury. His reputation survived. He was on the watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the best in the country at what he did.

In September, he was ready to rumble. Alas, he suffered a freakish hip injury in the second quarter of the Oklahoma game. No collision. He was whirling around a would-be blocker.

“This young man means everything to us, not just from a character standpoint and a leadership standpoint, but his productivity,” Coach Jones said.

Butch talked in terms of weeks to heal but it sounded like a eulogy.

“He’s a vocal leader, so regardless of what happens, he’ll be there for us,” sophomore safety Todd Kelly Jr. said. That was the benediction.

Oh no, the coach had more.

“Curt is an integral part of Tennessee football and will always be an important part. He’s our leader. I know he hurts right now. I know he’s disappointed. I love him to death, but I know he’s very resilient. He’s been resilient ever since he’s been here. He’s a great representative. He has a great, great future.”

Butch, being Butch, added “ahead of him.”

Alas and double alas, the poet had it right, what might have been – except for a hip chip.

Marvin West invites reader reaction. His address is westwest6@netzero.com

Can private money help build roads?

David Price just wants to be able to ride a bike out of his West Knox neighborhood. But his idea for making Northshore Drive a safer place to ride could lead to safer roads, and better connectivity, throughout Knox County.

Some would call his plan crazy. He wants to add a center turn lane, bike lanes on both sides of the road and a sidewalk to 7.6 miles of Northshore from Pellissippi Parkway to the Loudon County line. When that’s done, he’d like to extend improvements the other direction − from Pellissippi to Lakeshore Park.

“We’re spending $50 million on a park you can’t get to. There’s no connectivity.”

Connected communities are sustainable communities, Price says. He wants to raise private funding,

Wendy Smith

through individual and corporate donations, to match county, state and federal grant dollars available for road improvements. By leveraging private money, he thinks the costly project is doable.

He was inspired by the Path Foundation in Atlanta, which has raised over $100 million in private funds over the past 20 years.

Those funds have been leveraged to build 160 miles of greenway trails for commuting and recreation.

So far, Price has shared his idea with the Knoxville

YES!

Regional Transportation Planning Organization, Legacy Parks Foundation and the Tennessee Department of Transportation, and he’s in the process of meeting with representatives of homeowners associations along Northshore. So far, everyone he’s met with has embraced the project, he says.

He has not yet talked with local utility companies. Last week, he met with Knox County Commissioners Jeff Ownby and John Schoonmaker with the hope that they can facilitate a conversation with utility companies. Northshore Drive runs through their districts.

Acquiring rights-of-way and easements is the biggest obstacle to the project, he says. The county owns right-of-way on parts of

Northshore, but in other cases, private property runs right up to the edge of the road.

In spite of the obvious challenges, Price is determined to make the road safer. Having designated space for cyclists and pedestrians is more important than ever because of distracted and elderly drivers, he says.

He thinks the model could work in other County Commissioners Jeff Ownby and John Schoonmaker discuss communities, too. He David Price’s plan to widen Northshore Drive with through a private/ plans to ask the state public partnership. Photo by Wendy Smith to make Northshore Drive improvement a dem- in the same situation we’re improvement.

Price knows it will take onstration project that in. We don’t have the money could serve as a model for to maintain, not to mention an army to get the job done, so he’s recruiting. To join how to use private dollars to improve, our roads.”

Ownby and Schoonmak- up, contact him at davidhelp build roads.

“Once we figure this out, er approved of the concept, price2843@yahoo.com.

“What we’re trying to do get the methodology down, and brought up Tazewell we can pass that on. Every Pike and Maryville Pike as is monumental. It’s not gocommunity in the county is obvious targets for similar ing to be easy.”

WE WANT TO HELP SUPPORT AND PROMOTE THE VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS, AND PRESERVE AND ENHANCE THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF OUR REGION.

government

Shopper news • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • 5

Richard Bean reflects, Part II For Richard Bean, one of the perks of working in the courthouse was watching a red-headed minutes clerk named Lillian Garrett sashay down the steps with her friend Madge Day to Blind Ray’s snack bar.

“Them long legs, they’d just tear you up,” he said. “I guess it was the wiggle that got me.”

A f t e r their marriage, Lillian became a rising political star, Richard Bean and Richard a behind-the-scenes strongman. He still feels greatly indebted to Aubrey Jenkins for getting him that first job.

“Aubrey was so good to me, I’m still paying him back for stuff, and he’s been dead 20 years. I know he’d be calling me if he could, so I just go ahead.”

When Lillian set her sights on getting appointed clerk in 1979, Jenkins advised Bean to go see Cas Walker and warned him not to over-stay his welcome.

“He told me Cas had two telephones, and he’d take them off the hook when I came in. When he puts them back on the hook, it’s time to shake his hand and leave.

Bean made his pitch, and Walker said he could get Lillian two votes, and didn’t want a thing in return, except he’d appreciate it if Lillian hired a woman named Doris Weaver, “ ‘And every once in awhile, I get a case in court, if you’d get me a list of the jury so I can look at it…’

“Well, the jurors names

Pennies for Undies, a project initiated by Richard Bean, has raised over $17,000 in pennies to purchase underwear for inmates.

Betty Bean were public record, so there wasn’t much wrong with doing that.”

But it wasn’t long until he heard from a juror who said she’d gotten a call from the Old Coon Hunter, who offered her a cashier’s job if she’d help deliver a favorable verdict.

Times have changed, and at 75, Bean has mellowed some, and he says he feels A-OK, thanks to dropping some bad habits that used to weigh him down.

“I’m 25 years sober,” he said. “I went to a treatment program over at UT Hospital and there was lady named Trula at court, lived in Inskip, and also worked at UT Hospital in the office.

I walked in, in my sweats, looking for a basketball, and Trula told people, ‘That Mr. Bean, he’s the nicest fellow.

He’s volunteering over there at UT Hospital.’

“I stopped drinking on Pearl Harbor Day, and the next July 4, I stopped smoking. I smoked 5 packs a day.

That’s all I done. Went to bed sucking on a cigarette and got up next morning and didn’t light one.”

This year Richard took Thanksgiving off, but he drove in the next morning from Rose Hill, Va. He arrived at work at the Richard L. Bean Juvenile Detention Center at the usual time – 5 a.m.

And he won’t take Christmas off, so he’ll be there

when a couple of churches deliver gifts to the inmates.

The 11 visitation rooms will be in continuous use by families of 30 kids (seven girls, 23 boys, three of whom are charged with murder). He’ll take family portraits and mail them home, and figures that many will have a better Christmas in lockup than they would have at home.

“I tell my employees, if you don’t like kids, you need to get you a job building cars, or something. You gotta like kids.”

The detention center recently got an educational grant to computerize its two classrooms and it’s got a barber shop, a charter Boys and Girls Club (one of three like it in the country), and some special people: “We got a grandpa in each room – foster grandparents, Harold “Herkey” Chandler and Ernest McDuffey. Our teacher is Gary Harmon, and he’s the best thing that ever happened to us. He’s got two teacher’s aides, and they’re corrections officers.”

While he talks, Bean is wrapping rolls of pennies collected through the “Pennies for Undies” ministry he started 10 years ago after a girl objected to the institutional underwear issued to her. At first, he called it the “Pennies for Panties” fund, but soon came up with the less alliterative, genderneutral handle. Bags and boxes and banks full of donated pennies are piled up on his couch, and he’s raised some $17,000 to date.

Nobody walks out of Bean’s office without posing for a picture with him, many of which end up on his office walls – or used to, until he ran out of space and continued his gallery in the hallway, down at the end of which three or four rows of empty frames, await new shots, bearing witness that retirement is a dim future prospect.

“I keep telling everybody I got 10 more years. A friend said, ‘You’ve been saying that for 15 years.’ But I’ll just leave it at 10, if the judge will let me stay.”

UT should shutter Office of Diversity For smart people, they sometimes sure act dumb.

UT Chancellor Jimmy Cheek must move decisively to shut down the Office of Diversity and reassign or terminate its staff.

It’s not that the advice from the office is wrong ... it’s that it is so unnecessary and flat-out dumb.

After the flap about gender-neutral pronouns, Cheek pledged to monitor the work of this office. But just two months later came a web post urging folks not to let their holiday parties become Christmas parties with “Secret Santas.”

Chancellor Cheek should stand and fight for free speech; I’ll join him. But he should not sacrifice his career to the idiocy of this office which continues to flaunt Tennessee values and taunt lawmakers to do something about it.

Gone are the days of rational legislative leadership with a few bomb-throwers like Stacey Campfield.

The rise of Donald Trump means heretofore calm politicians like Jimmy Duncan are watching their right flank, anxious to avoid a primary challenge.

UT’s Office of Diversity continues to provide them fodder. The office may be gone by the time this article reaches homes on Wednesday, but I doubt it.

UT has lacked strong leadership for some time.

Sandra Clark

Dissed by Santa It was just a matter of time, I suppose, but it still hurt.

On Saturday as I walked through the Halls Christmas Festival, snapping pictures for the Shopper, I stopped to chat with Santa.

“Hey, Sandra. Are you still working at the Shopper?” he asked.

“Why, yes,” I replied.

“It’s just not what it used to be,” said Santa.

I should have said, “And neither are you, sir,” but I didn’t think quickly enough.

I’m not quite sure what readers want that we’re not providing, but if even Santa has noticed, it must be bad.

So what’s next? The mayor cuts off our press releases?

Congrats, Vols!

Coach Butch Jones will lead his team to Tampa for the Outback Bowl on New Year’s Day. That’s a great reward for the hard work by players and coaches – a tribute to recruiting and a soft schedule in November.

Just wait till next year!

City sets formal greenway opening The new greenway in South Knoxville along the Tennessee River, which was completed seven months ago but not announced, will be formally opened on Tuesday, Dec. 15, at 11 a.m.

Public is invited and parking will be at the Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus at 1709 Alcoa Highway.

Mayor Rogero, in her email inviting people, describes the occasion as “momentous” which is true,

Knoxville’s new greenway at Alcoa Highway is ready for public use.

Victor Ashe

given the slow pace at which her administration has constructed greenways across the city over the past four years. The First Creek greenway along Broadway is still a work in progress.

This new greenway, from the Buck Karnes Bridge to Marine Park on Alcoa Highway, is now connected to the bridge by a paved trail, which was only finished last week despite the much earlier completion of this greenway along the Tennessee River.

Land easements came from the University of Tennessee, TVA, Knox County and U.S. Department of Defense (Naval Station).

One can only hope this needed addition will

spur accelerated progress on greenways during Rogero’s final four years. At the current rate of greenway construction less than one mile a year has been achieved in the past four years. Surely this must improve, but is the leadership there to make it happen?

■ Parade: What was the Rogero team thinking when they charged the Fountain City Christmas parade $1,500 for police officers to help out? The mayor herself has been silent on this issue when she could have ended it by canceling the charges.

She prefers to stay above it while the police chief takes the heat.

Vice Mayor Nick Pavlis and council members Mark Campen, Nick Della Volpe and George Wallace have donated from their council accounts to offset the cost.

But city taxpayers are footing the bill as their funds are public monies. Will they be there to defray the cost in 2016?

The argument is made that many other groups including the Rocky Hill Christmas parade and Rossini Festival pay for police help. But the question ought to be should not the city just do this as part of its responsibilities to the taxpayers and neighborhoods? All help the community and pay city taxes.

The total amount of money raised by the Police Department charging for these events is modest. Only a few thousand dollars. The Police budget is millions of dollars. The city should be promoting the holidays and Christmas events instead of squeezing community groups trying to do good deeds at Christmas time.

Local media seemingly did not ask the mayor her views and she never volunteered them but it is her police department charging the fee. She has ownership of this. If she will not end it, then council should do it

for her. The mayoral candidates lining up for 2019 can also make ending it part of their campaigns.

The downside of term limits is a lame duck Administration feels free to ignore common sense and charge silly fees. Knoxville spends millions to keep Regal here but cannot afford free police protection for the Fountain City or Rocky Hill Christmas parades. Something is wrong here.

■ State Rep. Roger Kane and his wife, Brenda, are new grandparents with the birth of a granddaughter in South Carolina on Nov. 24.

She is Tessa Kathryn Douglas. Congratulations.

■ U.S. Rep. Jimmy Duncan and his wife, Lynn, have a new grandson, Miles Duncan, the son of Zane and Halle Duncan. Miles is the ninth grandchild for Jimmy and Lynn. Duncan plans to seek another term in Congress in November 2016.

■ Former Commissioner Wanda Moody has

received the annual Gift of Service Award from Bearden United Methodist Church for her volunteer work at the church.

■ The diversity controversy at the University of Tennessee has spilled over into the celebration of Christmas. One has to wonder why the university is spending more than $3 million annually for a department which suggests toning down the religious aspects of Christmas. Like the Lady Vols naming issue, this is not going away soon.

■ Former state Rep. John Mann died Dec. 5.

He served two terms in the Tennessee House of Representatives representing the city part of Knox County. He won election in 1972 replacing Victor Ashe who sought re-election that year in a West Knox County House seat defeating Jack Comer in the GOP primary and Mike Rowland in the November general election. Mann did not seek a third term.

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6 • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • NORTH/EAST Shopper news

SENIOR NOTES ■ Carter Senior Center 9040 Asheville Highway 932-2939 Offerings include: Senior Meals program noon each Wednesday.

Holiday “Food” Hop, 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Ugliest Christmas Socks and Cookie Swap, 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16. Guitar Jam “Holiday Hoedown,” 1:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 18.

■ Corryton Senior Center 9331 Davis Drive 688-5882 Offerings include: Senior Meals program, 11 a.m. each Friday.

The center is accepting donations of holiday/ seasonal decorations (info: Greg, 688-5882).

Fantasy of Quilts on display through Dec. 11. Cookie and White Elephant Gift Swap ($10 limit), 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16.

Register for: UT Women’s Athletic Director Emeritus Joan Cronan speaking and book signing, 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 14.

■ Larry Cox Senior Center 3109 Ocoee Trail 546-1700 Offerings include: exercise programs; bingo; arts and crafts classes.

■ John T. O’Connor Senior Center 611 Winona St. 523-1135 Offerings include: Blood pressure checks 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday.

Silver Stage Players’ “Christmas 1945,” 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, donations appreciated.

Veterans Services will answer questions 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 14.

Register for: Toenail clipping appointments, Thursday, Dec. 10; fabric painting class 1:30 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 14.

McCloud happy with rewards small and large

By Betsy Pickle It’s safe to say that Brenda McCloud was on cloud nine when she was named Nursing Home Caregiver of the Year by the Tennessee Health Care Association recently.

In addition to a glass plaque, McCloud received a “big check” for a $2,500 vacation through AAA Travel during a celebration at Island Home Park Health & Rehab. McCloud, director of housekeeping and laundry, beamed as Mary Scott of WBIR presented her with the check and said she had “no idea” what destination she would choose.

After being honored with a proclamation from the Tennessee Senate presented by state Sen. Becky Massey, McCloud sat down to talk about her career at the nursing home.

“I’ve done housekeeping, laundry, helped with activities,” she said. “It’s rewarding to just be here with the residents, to help them with anything I can – comfort, hold their hands, say ‘Good morning.’”

On a recent group outing to Gatlinburg, McCloud watched over one resident.

“To see her face and see her smile, that was the biggest reward I got that day,” she said.

McCloud started at what was then called Hillcrest South in 1993, after raising sons Keith and Brian (who passed away in 1997). Someone offered her another job in 2002, and she left – for six months – and then returned.

“I wish I hadn’t left even for six months because I enjoy what I do,” she said.

McCloud grew up primarily in the Strawberry Plains area and went to a

“bunch” of schools, graduating from Rush Strong.

“My dad liked to move,” she said of her minister father.

She plans to stay put in South Knoxville. Son Keith is currently living with her, and she’s counting on him to be her travel partner.

But if the time comes when she needs to move to a nursing home, her choice is clear.

“You could not ask for a better nursing home than this,” said McCloud, who donated her paid leave time one year to a co-worker battling breast cancer. “I know that because my mom was here, and my mom had the best of care, and I got to be with her every day while I was working.

“I would recommend it Island Home Park Health & Rehab’s former director, Melissa Hansen, left, and current director, Trudy Durham, right, show support for state Nursing Home Caregiver of the Year Brenda Mc- highly because they are reCloud. Hansen, who left IHPHR this summer, “believed in me and made me believe in myself,” ally family oriented.” says McCloud.

Quilters donate hand-stitched pillow cases House Mountain Quilters Guild has made 110 pillow cases to donate to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. Pictured are president Sharon Markwardt, Renee Hall and Tamara Adkisson from Children’s Hospital. The guild has 36 members who cut and piece quilts, make Quilts of Service for local veterans, provide bedding for animals at local rescue shelters, and donate pillow cases for Children’s Hospital.

The group meets 10 a.m. every Thursday at the Corryton Senior Center.

Photo submitted

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faith

Shopper news • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • 7

Behold!

Behold, I shew you a mystery …

(1 Corinthians 15: 51a KJV)

Christmas carolers Wallace Memorial Baptist Church choir sings at Morning Pointe of Powell. Many of the seniors there are also members of the church. After the performance, the choir visited with all of the residents. Directed by Mary Ruth McNatt, the group sang gospel music and led sing-alongs. Pictured are: (front) Tom Jensen; (first row) Yvonne Piercy, Zoe Hatchett, Lisa Huddleston, Carol Copeland, Melba Hill, Linda Josey, Edna Jean Binkley, Sandy Bolton; (second row) Betty Hankins, Bettye Benton, Dorothy Johnson, Carolyn Jensen, Carolyn McPherson, Virginia Burton, Helen Messerli; (third row) Jim McPherson, Ron Pressley, Sam Brabston and David Hill.

Enjoying breakfast are the Clarks – Hattie, mom Mindy and Lucille; Christie Wilson; the Kennedys – Mia, mom Donna, Porter and dad Justin; and Lily Wilson.

By actual count, the King James Version of the Bible contains the word behold 1,980 times. It appears the first time in Genesis and the last time in Revelation.

That is a lot of beholding!

Behold means to look, to observe, to see. “Watch this,” God seems to be saying to us. Or, as we would say today, “Pay attention!”

So, are we attentive?

Every time I see a rainbow, I thank God for His promises. Every time I see a baby baptized, I thank God for a new life devoted to Him. Every time I see a blood-red sunrise, or a crescent moon, I stand still and whisper a prayer full of wonder.

On the other hand, there are some very unlovely things we must behold.

There are some awful human sins, such as hatred, racism, jealousy, murder. There are the eight “Thou shalt not’s” in the Ten Commandments. (The other two commandments are positives, things we should do: “Remember the Sab-

Cross Currents

Lynn Pitts

bath,” and “Honor your father and mother.”)

What direction is God turning you? What does God want you to look at, to behold? To what does God want you to pay attention?

These are questions worth considering, worth praying about.

It is also helpful to have companions along the road. Everyone needs a sounding board, a friend who is wise and steadfast, willing and able to tell you the truth without judging you. Those are the folks who can make your life richer by pointing you toward the burning bushes in your life and saying, “Behold!”

And it is also always a blessing to have someone in your life who has the courage to say to you, “No, that’s not it. That’s not it at all!”

French toast with the North Pole’s star

By Carolyn Evans

There is no Scrooge at Ebenezer.

Ebenezer United Methodist Church, which has a regular Sunday attendance of around 275 to 300, once again opened its doors to the community for a free event – Breakfast With Santa. Approximately 150 people turned out to have French toast sticks with the season’s star on Saturday.

There was something for everyone: sausage and fruit to accompany the French toast; Christmas stories read by former children’s li- Rhylee Ault asks Santa not to forget the Shopkins and swingbrarian Jackie Hill and time ing chair she wants for Christmas. Helping out Santa is John on Santa’s knee (former el- Pfaff. ementary school principal John Pfaff) in front of the ‘Our church needs this,’” re- and fall festivals, usually atAdvent tree. calls Nancy Twigg, associate tract upward of 400.

“Santa symbolizes ‘giv- pastor of missions and chil“Probably more than half ing’ in America,” says Rev. dren’s ministry. McGeehee of the people who attend Ann Robins, lead pastor. died last year, and the event these events are from our “For us, as the church, the continues in her honor. community and outside of greatest gift is the gift of Reaching out to the com- our church,” said Robins, love that comes into the munity is a mainstay for who has been at Ebenezer’s world through Jesus. Our this neighborhood church helm for 11 years. goal is to welcome folks into on Ebenezer Road.

“We’re involved in a lot our space by celebrating “We see it as an outreach of local mission projects,” giving through the love of to our community to extend Robins said. “The funds Jesus.” hospitality and the love of that are generated here go When all the fun was God,” Twigg said. “We feel back out. I feel like our peoover, everyone went home like we’re in a key location, ple are the warmest, most with a goody bag and a but we’re also surrounded gracious and most kind digital picture of them on by lots of churches. We do a people around.”

Santa’s knee waiting in their lot of events and try hard to The church is in the midinbox. dle of a capital campaign as do them very well.”

The event was inspired Bigger events, such as well, working to raise $2.75 by church member Barbara the twice-a-year rummage million for a new sanctuary McGeehee four years ago. sale and barbecue, Vacation that will have 10,500 square “She came to us and said, Bible School and the spring feet. With the addition of a

Jim Stewart gets some breakfast from reindeer helper Nancy Twigg and Lydia Grace Twigg at the Ebenezer Santa Breakfast.

■ Music ministries of Community Evangelistic Church in East Knoxville and Christ Covenant Church in Farragut will join for three presentations of “How Great Our Joy – a Gospel Christmas!” Presentations:

by Carolyn Evans

new sanctuary, the current sanctuary will become a multipurpose room.

“We’ve already banked over $1 million,” Robins said, “and we hope to break ground in August 2016.”

Ebenezer Methodist offers Sunday school at 10

a.m., a contemporary Sunday service at 9 a.m. and a traditional service at 11 a.m. All age groups meet on Wednesday nights. Other opportunities include Cheryl’s Cozy Stitching Group, which meets to knit and crochet; a senior citizen Lunch

Bunch with a potluck and speaker; and a men’s group that meets at McDonald’s for coffee once a week. All of these groups would welcome new members, Robins said.

Info: www.eumcknox. org/ or 691-8330.

December D De cember 11 & 12 • 7 p.m. p m – Christ Chriist Covenant Ch Cov oven enan antt Ch Church hur u ch 12915 Kingston Pike • Knoxville, TN 37934

December 13 • 7 p.m. – Community Evangelistic Church

FAITH NOTES ■ First Comforter Church, 5516 Old Tazewell Pike, hosts MAPS (Mothers At Prayer Service) noon each Friday. Info: Edna Hensley, 771-7788.

It was Jackie Hill, a retired Knox County librarian, who played “elf” at Ebenezer United Methodist Church’s Santa Breakfast when it came time for Christmas stories. From left are Carol Greene with grandson Major Sharpe, Jackie Hill, Conor Nguyen and his grandmother, Sarah Ford. Photos

2650 Boyd’s Bridge Pike 37914 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11-12, Christ Covenant Church, 12915 Kingston Pike; 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, Community Evangelistic Church, 2650 Boyds Bridge Pike. Info: 525-1589 or cecchurch.org; 671-1885 or office@christcov. org.

■ Music ministries of Community Evangelistic Church in East Knoxville and Christ Cov-

enant Church in Farragut will join for three presentations of “How Great Our Joy – a Gospel Christmas!” Presentations: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11-12, Christ Covenant Church, 12915 Kingston Pike; 7 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 13, Community Evangelistic Church, 2650 Boyds Bridge Pike. Info: 5251589 or cecchurch.org; 6711885 or office@christcov.org.

Come celebrate Christmas as John Jackson & the Celebration Choir from Community Evangelistic Church (in East Knoxville) & the Adult Choir from Christ Covenant Church (in Farragut) join together to present this uplifting & worshipful Christmas concert! Music includes black gospel pieces as well as traditional carols for all to sing!

Nursery childcare available by calling the church office at 671-1885 by Dec.9.

www.christcov.org

kids

8 • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • NORTH/EAST Shopper news

Beaumont receives grant for library books

By Ruth White Christmas came early for Beaumont librarian Molly Moore and the students at Beaumont Magnet Academy. A gift came from the Rotary Club of Knoxville in the form of a $10,000 grant that allowed Moore to pick out books to fill the shelves. “The collection at the school was outdated, and the children couldn’t relate. This grant allowed me to purchase books that are new, relevant titles that match our curriculum.”

Telling some tales

Samiya Allmon performs with the Austin-East Dance Company during a clinic hosted by former student Joseph “Joe Styles” Smith. Photos by R. White

Coming home, giving back Having former students return to high school to visit a favorite teacher is always nice, but when that student is a talented dancer living in Las Vegas, it’s even better.

Addison Reiling’s pumpkin decorated to resemble the book “Ladybug Girl and Bumble Bee Boy” earned her a first place ribbon for creativity. The pumpkins were on display at a recent fall carnival, allowing guests to view the top picks from the pumpkin patch.

Brayen Honeycutt’s pumpkin slinky dog was awarded a second place ribbon for creativity and originality.

Haley Gibson recreated “Charlotte’s Web” character Wilbur the pig for the pumpkin decorating activity.

Ruth White

Joseph “Joe Styles” Smith attended Austin-East, graduating in 2007. His teacher, Peggy Denny, said that Joe was the only student she’s told that they have the “it factor,” and she was right.

“He was a teacher’s dream to have in class,” she said.

His passion for dancing comes from watching his father and brothers, who also loved dancing.

Smith returned to AE at the invitation of Denny and worked with the dance company on a hip-hop routine.

He had originally planned to work on an intricate, hard routine and then changed to allow them to work on a fun routine. “This group is one of the most technical groups I’ve worked with,” he said.

“They have a raw talent, and it’s obvious that they enjoy working together and they like to dance.”

While he was a student

Jack Derifond and Stephanie Snyder let their personalities shine through during the hip-hop routine. of Denny, Smith said, he learned some good life lessons that he’s taken with him. “One of the main things I learned was that nothing is handed to you, and you have to work for it.” He also learned that by looking in the mirror and knowing the kind of person he wanted to be, he was willing to do the work to get to the next level.

Since graduating high school, he has filled his resume with many opportunities some people can only dream of, including dancing at halftime for the Orlando

Magic, Dwight Howard birthday bash, Monster of Hip Hop Grad Night in Orlando, Dance Machine MJ Tribute and more. He has also had the opportunity to choreograph for the Edge Dance Studio in Orlando, instruct at the Orlando School of Cultural Dance and perform for Disney special events, just to name a few.

Now in Las Vegas, he performs with the Nevada Child Seekers at area schools and promotes healthy activity and eating right. He also takes a stand with anti-bul-

lying events and promotes breast cancer awareness. He works with NEON, a 2-on-2 dance battle in which qualifiers can advance to a trip to Paris to compete. He recently hosted a workshop in Knoxville that focused on engaging with people and getting them off the couch.

If the goal of Joe Styles was to inspire and encourage people, I can testify that he has done just that. Watching him work with the students at Austin-East, even if only briefly, made me believe that I, too, could dance.

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Briauna Grimes and Armonie Blair work through a portion of the hip-hop routine they learned during the workshop.

Shopper news • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • 9

Gala celebrates

By Betsy Pickle The East Tennessee Film Gala will celebrate East Tennessee filmmakers, but apparently some auteurs didn’t get the memo.

“We had quite a few submissions from out-of-state filmmakers and filmmakers outside of East Tennessee,” says Michael Samstag, one of the event’s organizers. He found that puzzling.

“It was designed for only East Tennessee fi lmmakers. But it’s nice to see the interest.”

The gala starts at 7 p.m. today (Dec. 9) at the Tennessee Theater in downtown Knoxville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $21.50 and are available at tennesseetheatre.com and at the door.

Samstag, a filmmaker and film-event producer who heads Knoxville Films, came up with the idea for the gala with Doug McDaniel, who works with him on the Scruffy City Film & Music Festival.

“Originally, this was going to be sort of a launching point for the East Tennes-

ET film

weekender

A scene from the narrative short “Zorn,” about a man who finds his life irreversibly changed by a video game. see Film & Television Association that we’ve been talking about for quite a while now,” says Samstag.

“That process – looking into building an association like that – has been more time consuming and is much more of a longterm thing, so we decided just to try to do something that would be a great celebration.”

Samstag still hopes the film and television group will come to life and points to Film Nashville as a blueprint for an organization that creates mutually beneficial links between members and film festivals and other entities. If the group takes off, it could use an event like the gala as Knoxville’s version of the Oscars.

“For this year, it’s just a

Hickman to release second single UT alumnus Nick Hickman will release “Tailgate Dance Floor” to country radio on Jan. 4. It is the second of three singles on his upcoming EP. Since moving to Nashville, Hickman has spent a year writing songs, but his musical journey began much earlier. He began writing songs at age 15, and his career took off after he joined a Christian band.

As an 18-year-old, he released a rap-pop album.

Info: thenickhickman.com

great chance for local filmmakers to see their work on the big screen – the biggest screen … and obviously the most wonderful, fantastic venue in town,” he says.

The gala reached capacity on submissions. There will be about two and a half hours of short films – narrative, documentary, horror and music videos – plus an awards ceremony.

Photo submitted

Samstag describes the three judges – whose associations include the Toronto International Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, Vail Film Festival and Hot Docs – as “fantastic.”

“It’s nice to be able to give filmmakers some national exposure and some international exposure,” he says.

Awards will include cash prizes: $500 for best stu-

dent film, $300 for emerging filmmaker and $200 for best professional.

“We’ll give out a fair amount of awards just because that’s part of the fun of it,” says Samstag. “I think that helps everybody as they’re promoting their films to have some accolades to go with it.”

Filmmakers whose works will be shown include: Matt Miller, Douglas Stuart McDaniel, Sannah Parker, Hayley Huckaba, Jamison Stallsworth, Jacob Dean, Sean H. Geer, Gabriel Crutchfield & Amy Eakins, Kelly Myers & Steven Regent & Ed Bailey, Matt Hensley, Carrie Thompson & Sam Comer, Sarah Kennedy, Mitch Moore, Edy Recendez, Jeff Snell, Philip Tatler and Steffan A. Spencer.

Samstag says there are plenty of seats available. He hopes they can manage to break even and then some.

Net proceeds will be donated to the Knoxville Horror Fest, Girls Rock Summer Camp and the Scruffy City Film & Music Festival.

‘In the Heart of the Sea’ The big-fish story that inspired “Moby Dick” gets a broader treatment in “In the Heart of the Sea,” opening in theaters Friday. The Ron Howard film spins the tale of the whale who terrorized a 19th-century whaling ship and then goes on to show the treacherous and daunting aftermath. Chris Hemsworth stars along with Cillian Murphy, Tom Holland, Ben Whishaw, Charlotte Riley and Brendan Gleeson. The film is rated PG13 for intense sequences of action and peril, brief startling violence and thematic material.

Making ‘The Nutcracker’ happen

By Carol Shane For the Appalachian Ballet Company’s Jan Valenti, the most anxious period of “The Nutcracker” happens before the show even starts. “My stress level is highest during the overture,” she says. “Once I open the curtain, I’m good.”

While the orchestra is playing Tchaikovsky’s familiar opening march and the audience is settling in for two hours of classic, sugar-plum-festooned fantasy, Valenti is herding small children, making sure a battery of stagehands is in place, and checking that all props, drops and lollipops are ready to make their scheduled appearances.

Though she began her career as a dancer, Valenti has been the ABC’s production designer and stage manager since 1984. She’s the one who makes the show “go.”

“I’m here at the theater from the loadin to the strike,” she says, referring to the arduous, book-ended processes of moving in and setting up all the scenery, costumes and assorted minutiae; and then knocking it all down to be taken somewhere else or stored. “I’m the first one here and the last one out.”

When everything is finally organized and rehearsals are ready to start, “I have to get everyone in the right place at the right time.” Party guests in full Victorian dress, toy soldiers, mice, dancing dolls and waltzing flowers – all are subject to Valenti’s precisely timed, musically-synced commands.

And it’s not all fantasy and frou-frou.

“We have a new fogger this year that I’m really excited about,” she says, referring to

the machine that creates the second act’s mist-enshrouded opening atmosphere.

“Though I’m not sure the orchestra will like it very much.” That fog, which tends to be chilly, has a way of spilling over the stage into the orchestra pit, filled with musicians and their very expensive instruments.

But all is endured good-naturedly. After all, it’s “The Nutcracker.”

For Amy Morton Vaughn, executive director of the ABC and its former prima ballerina, performance week means that her work is mostly done. She and her staff have been preparing all year for this, from painstakingly positioning small feet into the shapes of classic ballet to creating new choreography, working with principal dancers, and dealing with the thousand and one details involved in such a huge undertaking.

She’ll warm up the dancers pre-show, and go onstage to greet the audience and thank her sponsors. Then she’ll enjoy the fruits of her labors.

But when it’s zero hour and the orchestra is tuning up, there’s really only one person upon whom the success of the show rests.

So while you’re enjoying the seasonal spectacle, send a good thought to the ABC’s very own starship captain, Jan Valenti, who sits at the controls in her headphones and says “make it so.”

The Appalachian Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker” at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, Dec. 11, and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Clayton Center for the Arts, 502 East Lamar Alexander Parkway in Maryville.

Info: 981-8590 or claytonartscenter.com

The Appalachian Ballet Company production designer and stage manager, Jan Valenti, enjoys a backstage moment at “The Nutcracker” with some toy soldiers and the Mouse King. With her are Ashley Pettiford, 11, whose parents are Michael and Karen Pettiford; Scott Hitch, whose whole family – wife Julianne, daughter Laura and son Todd – are in the production; and Emma Ernsberger, 10, whose parents are Jessica and Kevin Ernsberger. All are from Maryville. Photo by Carol Shane

Adopt a new friend!

Trooper is a gorgeous, short haired, brown tabby male kitten about 9-monthsold. He got his name because he was rescued from a Knoxville Sherriff ’s car. The officer thought he heard mewing and discovered Trooper in the front grill of the car. Although he was dehydrated and had a small burn on his neck, he has recovered fully. He is very outgoing and social. He loves to play with toys or other cats and is never bored. He likes to be held and to snuggle. He gets along well with cats, and I think he'd be great with dogs and kids. He is healthy, happy, and ready for a permanent home. He is negative for feline leukemia and aids, current on his distemper and a rabies vaccines, been wormed, had advantage for fleas, and been vet checked and neutered.

Peaceful Kingdom/Stray connection 579-5164 Trooper needs a home!

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10 • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • NORTH/EAST Shopper news

Park Drive. The tour and craft activities will focus on international holiday celebrations. Free and open to the public. Info: 974-2144; mcclungmuseum.utk.edu/ education/families.

“Holiday Art Blitz!,” 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fountain City Art Center, 213 Hotel Ave. All-day small giftmaking workshops, $25 to make five gifts. Info/ registration: 357-2787; fcartcenter@knology.net; www. fountaincityartctr.com.

Holiday Homecoming, east side of Norris Dam State Park. Live animal demonstrations, historical depiction of Appalachian life, old-time music and holiday treats. Info: 426-7461.

Holiday Market, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Garden of Eden Preschool/Berean Bible Church. 2329 Prosser Road.

Lots of vendors in the gym.

Market Square Holiday Market, noon-6 p.m., with farm vendors selling until 3 p.m. near the Market Square stage, and craft vendors and food trucks open until 6 p.m. on Union Avenue adjacent to Market Square and along Market Street. Info: MarketSquareFarmersMarket.org or NourishKnoxville. org.

Oak Ridge Christmas parade, 6-8 p.m., beginning at Corporate Center, 151 Lafayette Drive. Info: www.oakridgechamber.org.

Wreath workshop, 12:30 p.m., Historic Ramsey House, 2614 Thorn Grove Pike. Cost: $35. Bring a pair of small garden shears and garden gloves. Other materials provided. Info/reservations: 546-0745 or ramseyhouse. org.

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THROUGH SUNDAY, DEC. 20 “Cinderella and Ebenezer,” Knoxville Children’s Theatre, 109 E. Churchwell Ave. Performances: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. Info/tickets: 208-3677; knoxvillechildrenstheatre.com; info@ childrenstheatreknoxville.com.

THROUGH THURSDAY, DEC. 24 Christmas in Old Appalachia, Museum of Appalachia, 2819 Andersonville Highway, Clinton. Info: 494-7680 or museumofappalachia.org.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 9

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, DEC. 12-13

International Folk Dance Class, 7:30-10 p.m., Claxton Community Center, 1150 Edgemoor Road, Clinton. Info: Paul Taylor, 898-5724; oakridgefolkdancers.org; on Facebook.

Santa train rides, Secret City Excursion Train.

Departures: 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 3 p.m.

Sunday. Info: 241-2140 or secretcityrailroad.com.

THURSDAY, DEC. 10

SUNDAY, DEC. 13

Halls Book Club: “The Christmas Box” by Richard Paul Evans, 1 p.m., Halls Branch Library, 4518 E. Emory Road. Info: 922-2552.

“Spreading Joy Near and Far” luncheon of the Knoxville Christian Women’s Connection 10:45 a.m., Buddy’s Bearden Banquet Hall, 5806 Kingston Pike. Cost: $12 inclusive. Bring a wrapped Christmas ornament to exchange. Complimentary child care by reservation only. Info/RSVP: phone/text 315-8182; knoxvillechristianwomen@gmail.com.

VFW meeting, 7 p.m., 140 Veteran St., Maynardville. All veterans are invited. Info: 278-3784.

“Bread Basket,” 2-5 p.m., Appalachian Arts Craft Center, 2716 Andersonville Highway, Norris. Instructor: Sheri Burns. Registration deadline: Dec. 6. Info/registration: 494-9854; appalachianarts.net.

Free drop-in art activities for families, 1-4 p.m., Knoxville Museum of Art, 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive. Docent tours in English, 2 p.m., and in Spanish, 3 p.m. Info: knoxart.org.

Historic Ramsey House Candlelight Tour, 6-8 p.m., 2614 Thorn Grove Pike. Featuring holiday treats, Christmas carols and tours of the decorated, candlelit historic home. Admission free; donations appreciated.

Info: 546-0745 or www.ramseyhouse.org.

Sarah Morgan and The Valley Boys in concert, 4 p.m., large court room in Union County Courthouse.

Free; donations to Union County Arts Council accepted.

Sing Out Knoxville, a folk singing circle open to everyone, 7-9 p.m., Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church, 2931 Kingston Pike. Group sings from the book “Rise Up Singing,” which is provided.

Info: bobgrimac@gmail.com; 546-5643.

THURSDAY-SUNDAY, DEC. 10-13 Santa’s Village hosted by the Knoxville Zoo, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive. Santa will be available for photos – bring your camera or purchase from professional photographer. Activities included with general zoo admission. Info: knoxville-zoo.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 11

MONDAY, DEC. 14

KSO Library Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Powell Branch Library, 330 W. Emory Road. Info: 947-6210.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, DEC. 11-13 “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” performed

by The WordPlayers, 7:30 p.m. Friday and 2:30 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Clayton Performing Arts Center, Pellissippi State Community College, 10915 Hardin Valley Road. Info/tickets: wordplayers.org.

Clinton Christmas Spectacular, Second Baptist Church, 777 Public Safety Lane, Clinton. Free. Performances: 7-8:30 p.m. Friday; 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday; 12:30; 10:30 a.m.-noon Sunday. Info: 457-2046.

Coffee, Donuts, and a Movie: “Tomorrowland,” 10:30 a.m., Burlington Branch Library, 4614 Asheville Highway. Info: 525-5431.

Family Movie Night: “Minions,” 5:30 p.m., Burlington Branch Library, 4614 Asheville Highway. Info: 525-5431.

Stroller Tour and activity, 10–11 a.m., McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture, 1327 Circle Park Drive. This program will focus on winter festivities around the world and will feature objects from the museum’s decorative arts collection. Free and open to the public but reservations required. Info/registration: 974-2144; tiny.utk.edu/strollertour.

MONDAY-TUESDAY, DEC. 14-15

SATURDAY, DEC. 12 “A Candlelight Christmas” – Christmas in Old Appalachia featured event, 5-8 p.m., Museum of Appalachia, 2819 Andersonville Highway, Clinton. Bring flashlights or battery operated lanterns. Info: 4947680; museumofappalachia.org.

Free Family Fun Day, 1-4 p.m., McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture, 1327 Circle

AARP Driver Safety classes, noon-4 p.m., American Red Cross, 6921 Middlebrook Pike. Info/registration: Carolyn Rambo, 382-5822.

TUESDAY, DEC. 15 Auditions for Knoxville Children’s Theatre’s

production of “To Kill a Mockingbird,” 4:307:30 p.m., Knoxville Children’s Theatre, 109 E. Churchwell Ave. Eighteen roles available for ages 9-18. Info/appointment: Dennis Perkins, dennis@ childrenstheatreknoxville.com.

Beginner to advanced art classes, 12:30 p.m., Hobby Lobby, 6580 Clinton Highway. Cost: $20 per session plus supplies. Info/register: Dianna, 765-5479 or 236-4959.

Honor Guard meeting, 7 p.m., 140 Veteran St., Maynardville. All veterans are invited. Info: 256-5415.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 16 Dine and Discover, noon-1 p.m., Knoxville Museum of Art, 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive. Adam Alfrey, East Tennessee History Center, and Steve Cotham, manager of McClung Historical Collection, will present “An Inside Look at Lloyd Branson.” Free and open to the public. Info: knoxart.org.

International Folk Dance Class, 7:30-10 p.m., Claxton Community Center, 1150 Edgemoor Road, Clinton. Info: Paul Taylor, 898-5724; oakridgefolkdancers.org; on Facebook.

KSO Library Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Halls Branch Library, 4518 E. Emory Road. Info: 922-2552.

Santa Storytime Celebration, 3-4 p.m., Burlington Branch Library, 4614 Asheville Highway.

Open to children 0-10 years old. Info: 525-5431.

THURSDAY, DEC. 17 Plainview 7th District Neighborhood Watch meeting, 7 p.m., Plainview Community Center. Info: 992-5212.

SATURDAY, DEC. 19 Market Square Holiday Market, noon-6 p.m., with farm vendors selling until 3 p.m. near the Market Square stage, and craft vendors and food trucks open until 6 p.m. on Union Avenue adjacent to Market Square and along Market Street. Info: MarketSquareFarmersMarket.org or NourishKnoxville. org.

THURSDAY, DEC. 31 New Year’s Eve Gala, 10 p.m., World For Christ Church Inc., 4611Central Avenue Pike.

MONDAY-TUESDAY, JAN. 4-5 New Play Festival auditions for Tennessee Stage Company, 7-10 p.m. Monday and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay St. No appointment necessary. Info: 546-4280.

TUESDAYS, JAN. 12, 19, 26, FEB. 2, 9, 16 “Reflections, Light and Magic” class, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Knoxville Museum of Art, 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive. Cost: KMA members $150/nonmembers $175.

Materials list provided. Info/registration: knoxart.org.

WEDNESDAYS, JAN. 20, 27 “Beautiful, Vibrant Alcohol Inks” class, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Knoxville Museum of Art, 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive. Cost: KMA members $50/nonmembers $65.

Info/registration: knoxart.org.

“Mosaics Keepsake Box” class, 2-4 p.m., Knoxville Museum of Art, 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive.

Cost: KMA members $50/nonmembers $65. Info/ registration: knoxart.org.

MONDAY, FEB. 1, 8, 15 “Mask Making and Face Jugs” (clay sculpture) class, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Knoxville Museum of Art, 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive. Cost: KMA members $90/ nonmembers $110. Info/registration: knoxart.org.

Send calendar items to news@ShopperNewsNow.com

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Then you'll love the Shopper's take on both the local filmmaking scene and Hollywood releases.

Betsy Pickle, East Tennessee's premier film critic, keeps you in the know in Weekender.

business

Shopper news • DECEMBER 9, 2015 • 11

the Salvation Army during a shopping spree at Kmart on Broadway last week. It was Weigel’s 18th year to sponsor the event for kids from 5-9 years Weigel old. Each participant got $150 to spend, assisted by volunteers.

BIZ NOTES

KCDC makes Thanksgiving dinner Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation staff members present Western Heights resident Mayra Rivera-Herrera with a Thanksgiving basket. Each year, KCDC administration donates a turkey and property staff bring in the fixings to offer a complete Thanksgiving dinner to deserving families at KCDC properties. Pictured are Rhonda McCulley, Rivera-Herrera, Kirstie Toby and Diana Caldwell.

■ Kyle McDonald is the environmental, health and safety executive in Messer Construction Company’s southern region offices.

He joined Messer in 2002 as a McDonald co-op while studying environmental health science at Ohio University and relocated to Knoxville in 2007. The Rocky Hill resident serves on the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Halls/Powell.

■ Jody Freeman, president of FMB Advertising, said a university website designed and programmed by FMB is one of only three school sites worldwide to receive a Gold W3 Award, which honors creative excellence on the web. The 2,500-page website of Marymount University of Arlington, Va., was launched in December 2014, just over six months from its initial concept meeting.

■ Kurt Weigel, training and recruiting director for Weigel’s, said the company brought Christmas to 200 local children selected by

Have utensils, will travel

By Sara Barrett

“I’m not going to be making anything basic,” said Chef Maurice “Mo” Ragland, owner of Chef Maurice and Company Catering. He is preparing to open a new facility just off Chapman Highway at 131 East Moody Avenue.

Although Ragland has been catering events for locals since 2011, his new facility will also feature an area where the public can stop by on the weekends for brunch, lunch or dinner.

“The recipes I make use about 80 percent homemade or homegrown ingredients,” he said. He hand cuts pork chops, grinds hamburger and don’t even get him started talking his handmade pizza dough.

Chef Mo’s store front will offer freshly made pastas, soups, cheesecakes – and yes, pizzas – that he will serve individually. Customers can take dishes home to heat for dinner.

In addition to an inhouse menu, takeout and catering, Ragland teaches cooking classes and plans to host a soup lunch for needy folks in the community once he’s up and running.

“My classes are interactive. You don’t just take notes like you’re watching a cook on television,” he said.

After expanding his culinary skills for 15 years as kitchen manager for The Italian Market and Grill, Ragland enjoyed learning to cook cuisine at other local dining establishments until he and his business partner, Sally Duke, began hosting 5-course wine dinners at Duke’s house in 2011. It was then that the catering requests started coming in.

Nowadays, Chef Maurice

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Chef Mo Ragland is getting cooking in his new facility off Chapman Highway. Photos by S. Barrett

and Company posts regular blog entries and Facebook a n nou nc e ments about local events for which Chef Mo is cooking (Wine on the River to benefit Cystic Fibrosis Sally Duke research was a recent favorite), and the catering business is hopping. The public relations department of TVA hired him to cater a dinner party and he has another event he is catering for TVA at press time.

“A favorite is Cuban mac and cheese … I also enjoy making a white wine sauce for shrimp scampi, and in the summer my barbecue ribs with blackberry sauce do well.”

Maurice and Company will open its new store sometime in January but until then, catering is available for the holidays. Info: 256-2700.

Real estate keeps moving

By Sherry Witt

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Winter may be looming, but the typical autumn slowdow n often experienced by real estate markets was difficult to find in NovemWitt ber.

The month ending Monday, Nov. 30, produced 779 property sales in Knox County – only a modest drop from the October figures, and some 44 transfers ahead of last November’s activity.

The more impressive data, however, involved the total value of property sold. During November nearly $208 million worth of real estate changed hands in Knox County, easily surpassing last November’s aggregate of $173 million. This comes on the heels of a very robust September and October. The two-month period ending on Oct. 31 produced $515 million in property sales.

While there was a slight

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decrease in mortgage lending in November, the overall trend in 2015 has continued to significantly outpace last year’s activity. The $292 million loaned against real estate in November pushed the 2015 total to nearly $3.6 billion. By comparison, around $2.9 billion was borrowed in mortgages and refinancing during the first 11 months of 2014.

The largest property transfer recorded in November was the sale of the Parkview Independent Living facilities at three different locations. The entire transaction totaled $26 million. On the mortgage side, the largest loan of the month was secured by a Deed of Trust in the amount of $27,360,000, affecting a portion of the University Commons complex.

As 2015 nears its close, I certainly hope that each of you had a blessed Thanksgiving, and on behalf of all of us at the Register of Deeds office, we would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

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