David’s Abbey Carpet & Floor has been owned and operated by David Hayes since 1973. He and his experienced and knowledgeable staff are committed to providing customers with superior quality products and installations, from start to finish. They just opened their third location in Maryville.
EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DESIGNERS & SALES ASSOCIATES
Still making up your mind about what you want for your new floors or feeling overwhelmed by their incredible selection? David’s Abbey has 20 sales associates with over 300 years of flooring experience. They hold specialized certifications in all aspects of flooring. These designers can help you choose the perfect floor, walls, showers, back splashes, etc. for your lifestyle and budget. All their consultations and measurements are free!
From thePublisher
Summer is the time to go swimming with your kids, laughing and playing together. It’s the season to sit under the shade of a tree, book in one hand, ice cream cone in the other. It’s the season to enjoy the warm weather and spend time outdoors.
This issue, read about my first intern, Sharisse Steber. I always knew she was destined for great things, and she’s accomplished so much with her recently released book on hiking and the great outdoors. Learn more about her beautiful illustrations in this issue. My office was in the Old City on Jackson Avenue in downtown Knoxville. The Old City was just being developed and it was a great time to be there.
Additionally, we’ve brought you some of the best summer recipes from Ingles as well as a list of fun summer events for you and your family. Learn about goldfinches and about the beautiful native plant false indigo from master gardener Gayle Fisher.
I received flowers from Valley Flower Farm in Hardin Valley for Mothers Day. Becca Henry and her husband moved from Memphis to Hardin Valley and fell in love with the lifestyle here. We just had to share her story, Life in Full Bloom.
Finally, read about our writer’s trip down the Cherohala Skyway and the Tail of the Dragon. These scenic roads are absolutely incredible, and we have beautiful photography for you to see by some very talented photographers.
The photo of my twins, Kathryn and Kelsey, was taken for our first story featuring The Cherohala Skyway. They were enjoying ice cream at “The Beach.” It was not their first trip to the Cherohala or the Dragon. The girls rode in car seats backwards for their first Tail of the Dragon experience! How many people can say they did it backwards? And yes, they did get a T-shirt. The other photo was this year’s Mother’s Day drive with the kids all grown up. We love the mountains!
East Tennessee is my home, and this magazine is my way to say thank you to all the people who make it so special. So please enjoy the latest issue and remember to shop local - the small businesses need you.
We are very thankful for our advertisers who keep our magazine going. We’ve put a lot of time and care into this issue. I hope you enjoy it.
Sincerely,
The Bingham Group
PUBLISHER
The Bingham Group
President Lisa Atkins Bingham
Graphic Designers
Cris Littleton
Lisa Bingham
Contributing Writers
Matt Hollingsworth
Gayle Fisher
Contributing Photographers
Brandon M. Johnson
KillBoy
Darryl “Killboy” Cannon
Lori “Killgirl” Cannon 129Photos.com
Advertising Sales
Tel: 865.523.5999 mignonne@binghamgroup.com
Subscription or Editorial Inquiries Tel: 865.523.5999 www.monroelife.com
The Bingham Group, Inc. 11921 Kingston Pike, Suite 201 Knoxville, Tennessee 37934
Since 1937, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital has been your partner in expert care for your child. From primary care to emergencies and surgeries, our team is here to put your family first. We are there every step of the way.
False Indigo
Three years ago, my garden club went on a field trip to a nursery that specialized in native plants. We traveled up into the cool, misty, smoky mountains of East Tennessee. I am always excited to buy plants that are native to our area. I bought a false indigo Baptisia Australis. I have wanted this plant for years.
Baptisia, also known as blue false indigo or blue wild indigo, is a perennial herb native to
much of central and eastern North America. It typically grows in rich woods, thickets and along streambanks from Pennsylvania south to North Carolina and Tennessee. The plant has dense clusters of deep blue flowers on long upright spikes. It is a large bushy perennial.
The genus name Baptisia comes from the Greek word bapto, meaning “to dye.”
Early American colonists used this native Baptisia as a substitute (though inferior) for true indigo (Indigofera) in making dyes.
Blue false indigo grows upright, typically reaching 3 to 4 feet tall. It features greygreen leaves and produces striking long racemes of indigo-blue flowers from late spring to early summer. The lupine-like flowers are arranged in erect spikes above the foliage mound.
The first year, I was dismayed with my small, weak purchase. I eventually placed a spike beside the plant so that I could remember
The seeds rattle after drying inside the pod. Early settlers used the pods to make toy rattles for their children.
where I had planted it. The second year I was surprised that it had wintered over beautifully and was ready to give me a showstopping display. It was three feet tall in less than a month. The color of the foliage was even beautiful. The leaves are clover-like and bluish-green, with leaflets about 2 inches long. After flowering, blue false indigo forms black seed pods (up to 2.5 inches long). These pods turn charcoal black when ripe and add ornamental interest after blooming.
Since this is a native plant, growing conditions are perfect here. Blue false indigo thrives in full sun to part shade. It prefers moderately moist, well-draining soil that can be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.0-6.8). Minimal maintenance is required. Trimming after flowering helps maintain its appearance. Over time, it forms slowly expanding clumps with a deep root system. Indigo is ideal for borders, cottage gardens, prairies, meadows and native plant gardens.
All parts of the plant are mildly toxic to humans and animals. The alkaloid compounds responsible for mild toxicity also make it unpalatable to insects, making it relatively trouble-free in gardens. Blue false indigo is a resilient and long-lived plant that adds structure and beauty to garden landscapes. Its unique flowers and seed pods make it a standout choice for naturalized settings.
This is the perfect plant for a butterfly garden. The flowers are attractive to butterflies, bees and other insects. It is also a larval host plant for a variety of butterflies including: Orange Sulphur, Clouded Sulphur, Frosted Elfin, Eastern Tailed Blue, Hoary Edge and Wild Indigo Duskywing.
I will not be dying material or making rattles but I am enjoying watching this native plant flourish in my garden along with the beauty of attracting butterflies.
GAYLE FISHER
HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM JEWELRY
We have been serving this community since 1986, and we pride ourselves on creating the highest quality custom jewelry designs in the greater Knoxville area. We have been blessed to see our small business grow to manufacture, on average, 400 custom in-house designs per year. Using a variety of new and old techniques to accomplish the customers' goals, we are eager to help tailor our shop's abilities to each special moment.
Traditionally, a wax carver would create your item by hand, then it would be cast into gold. The customer would rarely be involved in viewing the item before the casting process. Today's newest technology allows us to rely on the much more accurate and efficient form of milling machines to carve the wax. We can take the same file we send to the milling machine and also 3D print
the prototype into a plastic model, which allows the customer to view the design before we move into the milling or casting processes. These new additional steps give our customers the ability to make changes, edit, and view photorealistic renders from the design software. While this is becoming a standard practice in our industry, we have been using these softwares, milling machines, and printers in our shop since 2004, giving us possibly one of the largest databases of pre-designed custom items in the area. Our archive is growing every day with new versions of projects, so we currently keep a database of images, prototypes, and photos of finished items in the showroom for new customers to discuss or see the level of work we do on a daily basis.
All jewelry is manufactured somewhere in this world, so why not here in Knoxville, and why not exclusively for you? The ability to look past our register, through the glass into our shop, and see your items being created
at our West Knoxville location is something we take much pride in. Without outsourcing the work or purchasing products that were not manufactured to our standards, we can assure our customer base that the priority of our entire team is the quality and workmanship we can provide. While there are many reputable manufacturers in our industry, we truly believe we are able to provide our customers with the same quality, materials, manufacturing, and workmanship that is available at any premier retail establishment in the world."
OUR FIRST INTERN
TBy Matt Hollingsworth
Sharisse Steber
his story is personal to us because it’s about The Bingham Group’s first ever intern, back in 1993. Lisa Bingham always knew her intern Sharisse Steber had great potential, and she’s lived up to it with an incredible career as a graphic designer and now as an illustrator for books. In 2021, she published her first book: “Rise and Roar,” a guided journal about hiking and the great outdoors.
The book began life as an illustrated calendar, but as she drew, it kept growing until it blossomed into a 130-page journal. Sharisse explained, “I decided to combine the two things I love: the great outdoors… and art.” After finishing the book, she signed with a literary agent. Within just one day of pitching the book to publishers, she got an offer.
After the success of “Rise and Roar,” she created a set of playing cards based on the book, featuring beautiful illustrations. The royal cards feature famous women who achieved great things in outdoor adventuring, often overcoming obstacles against all odds. These women are some of Sharisse’s heroes, and she knows everything about them off the top of her head.
Sharisse knows about outdoor exploration firsthand. She has summited Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, hiked to Mount Everest’s Base Camp backpacked on the Lares Inca Trail in Peru, and gone caving on Easter Island.
Since the publication of her guided journal, Sharisse has been hard at work on other projects. Her first children’s book premiered in April. Written by Judy Young, the book, named “T is for Trails,” teaches kids about hiking and national parks.
“I want my art to make people happy,” Sharisse said. “If it has a theme, it’s to just find the joy in experiencing nature.”
FIRST CHILDREN’S BOOK
Using poetry and expository text, “T is for Trails: A Hiking Alphabet” gives young readers an A-to-Z guide on how to prepare and make the most of their outdoor adventures. Topics include information on gear and clothing, trail etiquette and safety rules, along with recommended trails to travel.
Recently, Sharisse was an Artist-in-Residence at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It was one of the highlights of her life, and she encourages other artists to apply.
NPS.gov/grsm/getinvolved/air-application.htm
Sharisse has designed greeting cards including the three depicted above. You can buy her cards at Trader Joe’s.
The Tarot for the Great Outdoors deck celebrates our National Parks and public lands. Each card depicts outdoor adventure activities as well as beautiful nature scenes inspiring you to get outside!
THESE RECIPES ARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY INGLES, STARTED IN 1963 BY ROBERT P. INGLE AND COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE.
FARM TO TABLE
n order to bring the freshest produce available to his customers Elmer Ingle used to visit local farmers in the early mornings, picking up only the best. Today, the store and the people look a little different but the produce doesn’t… everywhere you look the Ingles produce department has the freshest and the tastiest produce available, from local farmers just like Elmer and from around the world. Making sure you have the less traveled – best selection. We have an excellent variety of organic selections and a fresh produce prep area where we can core a pineapple, cut watermelon or put together the perfect combination of fresh vegetables for you, all with knowledgeable and friendly associates ready to help. Next time you visit your neighborhood Ingles, take a little more time to notice how much the tradition of the highest standards still remains with every fruit and vegetable.
INGLES….EXPECT MORE FROM YOUR LOCAL STORE.
SUZY’S ETON MESS
By: Suzy Neal
Shopping List
Meringues
3 egg whites, large
1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
3/4 cup Laura Lynn granulated sugar
1/2 tsp. Laura Lynn vanilla extract Strawberries
1 lb. fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
4 tbsp. Unicoi Preserves
Strawberry Vanilla Spread
Whipped Cream
1 cup Laura Lynn heavy whipping cream, cold
2 tbsp. Laura Lynn powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 200°F.
2 Add egg whites to a clean mixing bowl
3. Use an electric mixer and beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
4 Add cream of tartar and continue beating until they hold soft peaks.
5. Slowly add the granulated sugar, beat until meringues hold stiff peaks. Beat in vanilla.
6 Line a baking sheet with parchment or silicone baking mat. Spoon or pipe meringues into 12 equal mounds. Bake for approximately 1-1/2 to 1-3/4hours.
The meringues are done when the outsides are dry and crisp and separate easily from the
parchment paper. Meringues can be stored in an airtight container for several days
7. Mix strawberry slices and Unicoi Preserves together in a medium mixing bowl, set aside.
8. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
9. To serve: Crumble 6 meringues into whipped cream, then fold in most of the sliced strawberries, reserving some for garnish. Spoon into dessert cups, garnishing with reserved strawberry slices and additional crumbled meringue. Serve immediately.
This is a great do ahead dessert! You can make all three components of Suzy’s Eton Mess ahead, then just assemble it when you’re ready to serve.
www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/suzy-s-eton-mess
VERY BERRY REFRESHING COCKTAIL
By: Chef Abby J.
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh blueberries
2 cups fresh blackberries
1 (16-oz.) container of fresh strawberries, halved 2 nectarines, sliced
Divide the mixed berries between the two tall glasses. Add mint leaves. Muddle berries and mint until crushed. Fill the glass with ice. Add the vodka. Pour over the lemon lime sparkling water. Add the fresh fruit. Serve garnished with the mint and lemon peel.
Stir together strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, nectarines, lime juice and honey in a large bowl until combined. Fold in marshmallows and mint. Sprinkle with coconut.
www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ autumn-chowder
PEPPERED BACON PORK BURGERS WITH CHIPOTLE SORGHUM BBG SAUCE
By: Smokin Joe Lasher
Ingredients
2 lb. ground pork
1 lb. thick cut bacon, chopped
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
6 tbsp. butter, softened, divided
4 tsp. coarse ground pepper
1 tbsp. smoked paprika
1 tbsp. kosher salt
4 fresh burger buns
8 slices of your favorite cheese
Instructions
Mix all BBQ Sauce ingredients in saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until desired thickness. Set aside. Prepare grill for direct and indirect cooking. In a skillet or on a griddle over mediumhigh heat, caramelize onions with 2 tbsp. butter; set aside.
Thoroughly mix ground pork, chopped bacon, 4 tbsp. butter, salt, smoked paprika and 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce. Form into 1/3 lb.
burger patties. Liberally coat one side of each patty with coarse ground pepper. Indent each burger in the center (to catch grease) and place over indirect heat and let cook almost all the way through before flipping. Watch for flare-ups! Once burgers are flipped, top each with two slices of cheese and let melt. Note: Burgers should reach internal temp of 165°F. Don’t forget to toast your buns!
Place caramelized onions on to your toasted bottom bun. Lay a cheeseburger over onions, smother in BBQ Sauce, and top with the other half of the bun.
Lightly salt grated zucchini & let sit in a colander for 10 minutes. Squeeze to remove excess moisture. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients, except oil, and mix well. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop heaping tablespoons of mixture into oil; cook a few minutes on each side, until golden. Place on paper towels & sprinkle with parmesan cheese while hot. Serve with tomato sauce on the side.
In a big bowl, combine 5 cups of cubed watermelon, 2 cups of sliced strawberries, 1 cup of raspberries, and 1 cup of blueberries. Using a small bowl mix together the juice of 1 lime, 4 chopped mint leaves, and 1 tbsp. of agave syrup. Pour the dressing over the fruit salad.
Pre-bake your pie shell in the oven until golden brown at 350°F. Salt and drain your tomatoes. Lightly salt all your tomatoes and place them on a paper towel to absorb the moisture while you are pre-baking your crust. Layer your pre-baked pie crust in this order: onion, tomato, then basil. In a medium bowl, mix together the combination of cheese, mayonnaise, hot sauces, and black pepper. Spread the cheese mixture on top of the tomatoes and bake in the oven on 350ºF until golden brown.
www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ tomato-pie
SUMMER WATERMELON PUNCH
By: Michael McMurtrey
Ingredients:
1 watermelon, pureed and strained
1 orange, juiced
SUMMER WATERMELON PUNCH
1 lime, juiced
1 can frozen lemonade concentrate
By: Michael McMurtrey
1 cup pineapple juice
1 bottle sparkling wine or seltzer
Ingredients:
Directions:
1 watermelon, pureed and strained
1 orange, juiced
1 lime, juiced
1 can frozen lemonade concentrate
1 cup pineapple juice
1 bottle sparkling wine or seltzer
Directions:
Cut the top off your watermelon, as shown in the picture. Scoop out red flesh into a bowl. Puree it in stages, using a standard or immersion blender. Pour each batch through a mesh sieve into a large bowl, to eliminate any seeds or solids. Add juice of an orange and a lime. Then add pineapple juice and frozen lemonade. Chill. When ready to serve, fill the hollowed out watermelon 2/3 of the way, top with sparkling wine.
Cut the top off your watermelon, as shown in the picture. Scoop out red flesh into a bowl. Puree it in stages, using a standard or immersion blender. Pour each batch through a mesh sieve into a large bowl, to eliminate any seeds or solids. Add juice of an orange
frozen lemonade. Chill. When ready to serve,
Our new website is the best place to keep up with articles and stories between issues so you never miss a beat of what’s going on in our community. No matter if you’re using a phone, tablet, or desktop, our new website is fully optimized to make reading our content as easy as possible.
Our new website is the best place to keep up with articles and stories between issues so you never miss a beat of what’s going on in our community. No matter if you’re using a phone, tablet, or desktop, our new website is fully optimized to make reading our content as easy as possible.
We also publish full versions of our print magazines online the same day they’re being delivered to homes!
We also publish full versions of our print magazines online the same day they’re being delivered to homes!
See all the delicious recipes from current and past issues complete with step by step instructions and an integrated shopping list!
See all the delicious recipes from current and past issues complete with step by step instructions and an integrated shopping list!
NEED TO SCALE A RECIPE?
NEED TO SCALE A RECIPE?
No problem! Our online recipe system allows you to choose how many servings you want and it automatically adjusts the needed ingredients and shopping list!
No problem! Our online recipe system allows you to choose how many servings you want and it automatically adjusts the needed ingredients and shopping list! www.monroelife.com
A Premier Destination for Natural Beauty
The 90 foot Carmac Falls is just a short walk and is is located on the private property of Evins Mill. As such, one must be a guest of the resort in order to access its property and enjoy its trails. For those who wish to do so without staying overnight, the venue offers “day-tripper” packages that are available by reservation-only, made a minimum of 24-hours in advance. For more details, see their Day Tripper Packages and/or call (615) 269-3740.
Celebrating nearly 30 years of service, Evins Mill is a scenic Tennessee resort property located near the town of Smithville—just an hour east of Nashville. Minutes from Center Hill Lake, Evins Mill provides the amenities of a luxury destination in the intimate setting of a woodland resort, including creekside lodging, fine dining, and beautiful natural wonders.
It’s the perfect place for weddings, executive business retreats, romantic getaways, or day-trips. Hike along bluffs to overlooks and the base of Carmac Falls where you can swim beneath the cascades; fish at Evins Mill Pond for bass, bluegill, & brim; play lawn games like horseshoes, corn hole, ladder golf, bocce ball, volleyball, & badminton; or enjoy cozy bonfires.
After a long day of enjoying the great outdoors, you can step inside and relax with billiards, ping pong, foosball, darts & grand piano a variety of board games, cards & puzzles public television monitors (Roku only) binoculars & guidebooks for bird watching a library with an eclectic collection of books.
The property’s history dates back to 1824, when a Tennessee Land Grant recorded it as Lockhart’s Mill. Since then, the land has
seen several owners, including the Lockhart, Lawrence and Webb families, all of whom built mills on the property. Perhaps the most well-known proprietor was the politically prominent Evins family.
Edgar Evins was a state senator and successful businessman with a variety of interests, including banking, bussing, and oil. He bought the property in 1937 and built the present mill two years later. At the end of World War II, Edgar ceased milling operations. While the mill lay dormant for years, the present log lodge that his wife Myrtie built in that same era became a bustling summer retreat for the Evins family.
Mrs. Evins passed the property to her son, Joe L. Evins, who, as a U.S. Congressman from 1946 to 1976, used it as a political retreat. Governors of Tennessee, including Buford Ellington and Frank Clement, visited the Congressman here, as did Estes Kefauver and Evins’ friends Albert Gore, Sr. and his son Al Gore, Jr.
In 1980, the Congressman bequeathed the property to Vanderbilt University, his alma mater, and it was later sold to the Isaacs family. In 1990, Bill Cochran acquired the property to use as a private retreat for his
family and business. Four years later, Bill and his son William first opened Evins Mill as a business, welcoming the first of countless retreats it would host over the next twentyfive plus years. In the same time span, hundreds of couples pledged their troth at the resort, while thousands more marked a special occasion or simply took a break.
Since 1990, Corporate Communications Resources, LLC has established itself as the one point of contact for all telecommunications needs, delivering specialized telecom management solutions to clients around the world. With their dedication to maximizing clients’ savings, minimizing administrative costs, and streamlining the telecom and IT management process, they are positioned to provide end-to-end solutions and maintain their position as an industry expert.
Audit of Services & Products
Analyze usage patterns, contracts, and past & current invoices to hold providers accountable and to optimize and reduce your costs.
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Invoice Processing & Ebilling
Pay invoices quickly and on-time, to avoid late fees and service shut-offs.
Contract Management
Analyze and compare vendor offers, make recommendations, and negotiate the final terms to optimize your communications infrastructure.
Help Desk & Support
Experienced support specialists to provide technical support, hardware support, and quickly identify and correct usage problems.
Construction & Relocations
Streamlined processes for new site set-up, office relocations, new orders for services, and closing site services.
Corporate Communications Resources, LLC solely represents the client. They do not function as an agent or partner for any service provider, manufacturer, or vendor. They do not accept gratuities from third-party companies. They are an unbiased sources of information for decision-making and support, available 24/7.
Trains Run May thru November!
Life inFull Bloom
Becca Henry is an entrepreneur through and through. Originally from Mississippi, she founded both a medical equipment marketing company and later a boutique in Memphis. Recently, she has moved to Hardin Valley with her family for her latest adventure—founding Valley Flower Farm.
Here, Becca grows beautiful flowers that she sells at Farmers Markets. Additionally, customers can stop by on Fridays during growing season to create their own bouquets from her precut blooms, paying by the stem. She also sells to florists and designers. This farm is also her family’s home, so please don’t show up without an appointment.
Discussing their new home, Becca says, “We fell in love with this lifestyle out here… The lake out here is beautiful. It’s quiet and peaceful. I just love Hardin Valley.”
This peaceful farm is a sharp contrast to the chaos of city life in Memphis. Becca explains, “Farming forces you to evaluate the present a lot. It’s sort of day by day. There are lots of challenges and problems that come up day to day, but it’s also so rewarding, just to be out here and see what God has created and what you can help facilitate. It’s nothing like anything I’ve ever done. It’s a lot of hard work, but the rewards and the benefits, the personal growth that you get out here—it’s been amazing—and to be able to share it with the community is my whole goal.”
The farm’s slogan is “Life in Full Bloom.” To her, this encapsulates what she feels about farming and also about Hardin Valley—truly a place in full bloom.
OPEN 10AM - 4PM EVERY FRIDAY FOR GROWING SEASON venmo, paypal, cash
Create your own bouquet or purchase a premade farmers choice bouquets.
SUBSCRIPTIONS ALSO AVAILABLE!
For More information or to buy visit: www.valleyflowerfarm.us
ValleyFlowerFarm.us
3104 W Gallaher Ferry Rd. Knoxville, TN (Open by appointment only) (865) 224-3734
Info@valleyflowerfarm.com
By: Matt Hollingsworth
GOODBYE Coach Courtney!
After 28 seasons as head coach of the Farragut High School football team, the much loved and much respected Coach Eddie Courtney is retiring and passing the mantle to his son, Geoff Courtney who was the program’s offensive coordinator.
“I know it’s time,” Eddie said. “I came to peace with that about a month-and-a-half ago. I felt like it’s time to pass it along to someone else who has new energy and new ideals and keep moving forward.”
Even before he was the head coach, Eddie served as assistant coach for 15 years. Altogether, he’s been a fixture of Farragut High School for 43 years, and it’ll be difficult for everyone to see him go. Even still, he will continue to work with the program part-time as football director of operations.
When Eddie looks back on his time in the program, it’s not his wins that stand out most, although there have been many: He has a 204-121 record as head coach. Instead, it’s the relationships with the players that he most values. He has loved being a mentor to them, and he keeps in touch with many of them. He’s frequently invited to weddings of his former players.
When asked about his retirement plans, Eddie talked about spending time with his family. He also said that he’d like to go on a cruise, something he’s never done before. He also discussed going on vacation to North Myrtle Beach and playing golf.
HELLO Coach Courtney!
About his son, Geoff, becoming the new head coach, Eddie said, “It’s deserving of him. He’s worked hard. He went to school here; he played here; he’s come back and coached here now going on nine years. It’s his turn, and he understands this program. He understands this community, understands everything about it, and he’s ready for his chance.”
Geoff said, “I’m certainly very humbled by the opportunity to lead this program. I’m excited about the season coming up.” He encouraged everyone to buy season tickets. Geoff also praised his father for his guidance and passion for the program. He wants to continue his father’s legacy of caring for everyone involved in the program, both on and off the field.
Honoring the past and shaping the future to serve his
Matt Schaefer is paving the way for pediatric healthcare in East Tennessee while honoring and building upon the legacy of those before him. Originally an engineer, Matt hadn’t planned on entering the healthcare industry but when his nephew, Malachi, was diagnosed with leukemia, that all changed. “We spent a lot of time at the hospital. After 150 days in the hospital and five rounds of chemotherapy, he sadly passed at 19 months old. I got to see what mission based pediatric healthcare systems do for families. It was then that I decided I wanted to do something different,” said Matt.
He began doing work for Texas Children’s Hospital and later ended up helping plan, develop and lead the inpatient facility that was built in West Houston. After working in Massachusetts, Texas, and Louisiana, Matt felt called to the leadership role at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, recognizing the
long-standing quality of care and culture within the organization.
“Several individuals in pediatric healthcare have a similar story to mine that’s made them want to be a part of this mission,” said Matt. He was drawn to the difference the organization is making in the lives of the children in this community, and Knoxville seemed like a great place to move his wife, Kristin, and two daughters, Allison and Sarah. In August of 2020, Matt and his family moved here, and he began his new role as President and CEO of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
They very quickly felt welcomed in their new community. “Knoxville has been a great place for us to grow professionally, personally and spiritually.” They enjoy watching their daughters play lacrosse and soccer, spending time on the lake at Concord Park, grabbing dinner at Lakeside Tavern and cheering on the Farragut football
team on Friday nights in the fall. “I’m incredibly grateful for the involvement from local businesses that support Children’s Hospital through fundraisers, like our annual golf tournament at Fox Den Country Club.”
Children’s Hospital works to serve all of East Tennessee and create opportunities for every child, regardless of their situation. With nearly 20 convenient locations including a state-of-the-art hospital located here in our backyard, every child and family receives expert, customized care that treats the whole child. “Our commitment is to push the boundaries of not what is but what could be, offer help where it can be provided, and bring healing where it can be produced. It’s not only our responsibility, it’s our privilege.” East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is taking care of our future, one child at a time.
“
Our commitment is to push the boundaries of not what is but what could be...”
Goldfinch
By Gayle Fisher
It’s hard to miss the cheerful yellow and contrasting black and white wing markings of male American goldfinches, especially when they’re crowded around your backyard bird feeder. Goldfinches are big fans of bird feeders. Although they will eat most small seeds, they love thistle (Nyjer) and sunflower seeds. To keep your birds happy make sure the seed stays dry. Most tube and mesh feeders are fine; a sock feeder also works well. If food is plentiful, goldfinches won’t typically migrate very far, which means their distinctive per-chick-o-ree call can be heard year-round. But you might not notice them at your feeders. When winter arrives, the males take on a more subtle brown coloring to match the females. The male American goldfinch sports three main feather colors during breeding season: golden yellow, black and white. Look for a small yellow bird with black wings, tail and forehead and an orange bill. They look like tropical birds. They measure 5 inches with a wingspan of 9 inches. This tiny finch weighs in at about half an ounce. That’s roughly onefifth the weight of an American robin.
As usual the females are less colorful yearround. The female is a duller yellow with patches of drab olive and white wing bars. Finches, like most small birds, molt all their feathers at the end of summer or during fall. This molt during the fall is far less noticeable than the transition back to their bright breeding plumage in spring. It’s fascinating to watch how quickly the males transition back into their dapper summer plumage.
Not only will thistle seeds attract finches, the birds famously use down from mature plants to line their nests. It’s one reason that they nest so late in the season, usually between late June and early August. The problem with thistle is that many types are invasive. When planting, look for native plants.
Thistle isn’t the only material females use to line their nests. Milkweed, cattails and dandelion are other options, as are willow catkins and cottonwood fluff.
This is part of what makes these birds so fascinating: They are incredibly adaptable to their environment.
Mama bird wants her nest in a cup shape, so if she can get access to a more supported structure she’ll use that. They often build nests in a vertical fork, where three or more branches meet to form the perfect spot for cup shape. Plants like dogwood, elderberry, buttonbush and hawthorn are common, as are Monterey pine, willow and fruit trees. These birds prefer open, weedy fields with shrubby edges. By the time they have young in the nest, it is late summer and they can easily find an abundance of wild seeds to feed their offspring. The female lays four to six pale-blue eggs.
Our colorful Goldfinches aren’t under threat. We have a breeding population of around 42 million. Found in cities and agricultural areas, they are a species that has done well with their human neighbors.
Michelle - 2022
Murtha - 2023
By Matt Hollingsworth
Iam at Ancient Lore Village in Knoxville, and I feel like I’ve stepped back in time. Or perhaps sideways through time, for this is not exactly a world of the past but a world of the imagination, a fantasy world of dwarves, elves, and fairies. I arrive just after noon with my girlfriend Annette and we are immediately given a tour of this strange world in which we’ve found ourselves, from the quaint and beautiful houses, to the axe and archery range, to the miles of hiking trails across the rolling hills in the distance. As a long-time
science fiction and fantasy fan, this is just the kind of thing I love.
We’re staying at Bokee’s Bungalow, a massive dwelling, partially underground, with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a dining table, a reading nook, and a main room where four chairs cluster around a stone fireplace. We both find our rooms delightful with perfect fantasy touches in every detail. There are logs and kindling provided, so Annette and I look forward to sitting together tonight by a roaring fire.
But there’s much to do before that—exploring this beautiful fantasy world. Eventually Annette and I sit by the cascading blue waterfall and work on our writing. This peaceful, calm setting is the perfect place to inspire us.
After this, we go to the axe and archery range for guided lessons from the staff. I stand poised with an arrow nocked, aiming at one of the many targets. Thwick. The arrow releases and hits the target, just a few inches from the bull’s eye. I smile. I’ll certainly take that. The axe throwing is just as fun. The staff
gives us lessons to make sure we’re completely safe. I poise with the axe raised above my head, then step forward and release, just as I was shown. The blunt handle of the axe impacts the corkboard and bounces off. Not quite the result I was looking for. I try again, this time starting slightly farther back. I throw the axe and the blade embeds itself into the corkboard, leaving a satisfying gash in the dead center of the target. Oh yeah, I think. This is going to be great.
After an hour at the range, we are led to dinner. It begins with a lettuce wedge topped with cheese, bacon, hard boiled egg, and tomato. For the main course, we’re served a delicious chicken with sides of mashed potatoes and broccoli. Finally, we scarf down some cake for dessert. I recline back in the chair, satisfied with an excellent meal.
Adventure awaits with the Activity Pass! Enjoy the Village at your own pace as you explore our hiking trails, play outdoor games in the Gremlin Gameyard, and partake in a self-guided audio tour of the property. Then take aim at the Axe + Archery Ranges. They even have Trivia nights and movie nights so check out the event schedule online.
Not only does Ancient Lore Village provide an excellent experience for guests, but they also care about making our community a better place. The night of our stay, they are holding a fundraiser for Breast Connect, a charity for breast cancer survivors. The executive director of Breast Connect said that the people at Ancient Lore “were very accommodating and helped us out tremendously on getting everything organized.”
Annette and I spend the evening reading by the warmth of the fireplace. On the mantle is a leather-bound guestbook full of reviews from satisfied customers. One of them is written in fantasy-style text complete with designs and illustrations in the margins. Afterward, we sit in the reading nook and watch Fellowship of the Ring, but after such a full day, I’m too tired to finish the movie.
The next morning, Annette and I check out, but we’re still able to hang out, so we explore the hiking trails, down Firefly Lane and Gremlin Path, before daring the trek to Yeti Peak where we’re greeted with a beautiful view of the village. A perfect conclusion to a wonderful trip.
If you want to visit Ancient Lore Village, go to their website to book your experience. This magical destination in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains is just 40 minutes from Farragut. Their unique village was designed around fostering community and creating unforgettable memories! Disconnect from the world and enjoy outdoor activities at this whimsical retreat.
AncientLoreVillage.com
865.200.2434
7107 Sevierville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920
ROAD TRIP
By Matt Hollingsworth
The Cherohala Skyway and the Tail of the Dragon
Ifollow the road that my forefathers took by wagon train so very long ago. Well, actually not that long ago—the tradition only started in 1958, and the most recent wagon train was last August. I am driving along the Cherohala Skyway which connects Tellico Plains with Robbinsville, North Carolina. It is a beautiful road, one only built after years of a brilliantly unconventional political demonstration.
In 1958, the people of Tellico Plains and the nearby mountains were very isolated and lived traditional lives. Their children were often faced with a difficult decision—to keep living as their parents lived or leave everything they’d ever known and travel to more developed areas. It was in this environment that people began wanting a road to connect them to Robbinsville, thinking that this would expand their youngsters’ horizons, enabling them to travel and learn without permanently leaving their homes in the mountains. But how would they get the government to actually build such a road?
The answer started as a joke. During a meeting of the Tellico Plains Kiwanis Club while discussing the potential road, local man Sam Williams said, “Why don’t we have a wagon train? Since our roads are only fit for covered wagons.”
The others chuckled and smiled, but community leader Charles Hall grew serious and said, “Wait a minute, Sam’s suggestion makes sense.”
How could this small town attract attention to their plight? A modern-day wagon train from Tellico Plains to Robbinsville would be a perfect story to capture the media’s attention—and it worked better than any of them could have guessed. The trip was scheduled for July 4th. Newspapers and TV stations covered the event which turned into a huge festival. The organizers had hoped for eight or ten wagons participating, but instead they had sixty.
The 21-mile journey was just as rough as they were expecting, since the land was completely undeveloped, but it got the attention they needed and became an annual tradition that continues to this day. Charles Hall led the push, and by 1960, the journey reached an incredible attendance of 105 wagons and almost 800 horseback riders. The demonstrations worked, and in 1962, Congress made the first allocation for the road. There were many obstacles to the road’s completion including opposition from environmental groups
that shut down construction on the North Carolina section from 1968 to 1983. Eventually, an agreement was reached and the road was finished in 1996 for a total cost of $100 million. Today, I’ll be driving it for the first time.
It’s important to be fully prepared before going on the Skyway as there are no stops for miles. Also, it’s a long trip, so make sure to start early. This time, before heading out, I stop for a snack and drink at the Tellico Grains Bakery where I get a delicious raspberry and white chocolate scone. Next, I fill up on gas then start down the skyway. Another good place to stop is the Tellico Beach, a small drive-in, near the beginning of the Skyway, along the banks of the Tellico River.
At first the Skyway isn’t too different from any other road, the massive trees on either side are certainly beautiful. But it’s when we pass the first gap in the trees that I truly understand why this road is such a land-
mark. Swirling mountain ranges, covered in trees, stretch into the distance, forming valleys between them like grooves in a giant fingerprint. This is the Cherokee National Forest, and farther down the road, I’ll pass into the Nantahala National Forest. The word Cherohala is a combination of the two forest names. The ridges are covered in a thick woodland that seems to stretch on forever, and I wonder how long I could run through it without encountering a single other person.
With a maximum elevation of more than 5,400 feet, the Skyway truly offers incredible views. I pull to the side of the road to admire the scenery. Nearby, a man is camped by the road under the shade of a pop-up canopy. He faces the road, a large camera in his lap. A graphic on his car reads 129Photos.com Xtreme Sports Photography. I strike up a conversation with the man who introduces himself as Jason. He explains that he snaps
Photo by Brandon Johnson
Brandon M. Johnson Photography
pictures of passing cars and motorcycles. Those who are interested can go online, find the picture of their vehicle, and buy it. People come hundreds of miles to ride the Skyway in expensive sports cars, and Jason’s photography provides them with a convenient memento of their trip.
As we talk, a series of deafening Porsches pass by, loud enough to drown out our conversation. We can hear them for a full 30 seconds after they disappear around the curve. “And that’s them going slow,” Jason says once they’ve passed. I watch as other beautiful (and expensive) cars and motorcycles race by before I return to my car.
As I continue driving, the scenery just grows more stunning. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen so much forest, sprawled like an explorer’s dream across ridges and mountains. No wonder the ancients believed in monsters lurking in the deepest woods beyond civilization. It’s hard not to with views like this.
About 14 miles from Tellico Plains, I pass the turn off for the Indian Boundary Campground. At this family-friendly stop, visitors can camp, swim, or fish at the lake and hike or bike the trails, all against a beautiful mountain backdrop. The site also has a store selling supplies in case you forget anything. If you like hiking, you’re in luck, because there are many other trails along the Skyway.
After several more miles, I get an especially stunning view while crossing the Charles Hall Bridge, named after the Tellico Plains mayor who fought so hard for this road. This 700-foot bridge over Laurel Branch stands at 4,000 feet in elevation, making it one of the highest major bridges in the area. According to the Charles Hall Museum and Heritage Center in Tellico Plains, the bridge opened to traffic early in 1983 at a cost of 1.1 million, although it wouldn’t be named and dedicated as the Charles Hall Bridge until 1997.
Brandon M. Johnson Photography
When I reach the end of the Skyway, I seek out Tapoco Lodge for lunch. The large historic building is nearly 100 years old and looks slightly out of place after so much uninterrupted nature. It was originally built to house workers for the Tallassee Power Company, from which it gets its name, while they built the Cheoah Dam and other hydroelectric dams in the area. Today, the building is a hotel and restaurant.
After I’m seated, I order “Ethan’s Signature Burger” which is good, though a bit expensive. Honestly, I’m a little nervous not to eat too much since I know what’s coming next. Driving back, I’ll be taking the Tail of the Dragon, also called Deals Gap, which is known—with good reason—as one of the most dangerous roads in America due to its sharp curves: 318 in just 11 miles according to the marketing, at elevations reaching over 1,960 feet.
I leave the lodge and head towards the Tail.
At the start is the infamous “Tree of Shame” decorated with broken parts of crashed vehicles who had failed the road’s test. Not wanting to end up among them, I’m planning to take this road very slowly.
The road is like a roller coaster, and I often have to slow to 10 miles per hour or under to safely make a turn. Some of the drivers behind me aren’t so cautious, however, and I have to pull to the side two or three times to let them pass. Along the way, I encounter many other photographers like Jason snapping pictures of passing cars and motorcycles. The views on the Dragon are incredible, just like the Skyway. The road itself is a cross between a scenic drive and a thrill ride, even if you’re taking it slowly, as I am. I’ve heard one driver describe it as “the most exciting 11 miles I’ve ever driven in my life.”
The Tail of the Dragon and the Skyway, are both Meccas to car- and motorcycle-enthusiasts. The two roads aren’t just ways to reach
your destination but destinations in and of themselves. While the route has existed since before the founding of our country, it became popular as a tourist attraction in the 1990s due to marketing and a newsletter by motorcycle enthusiast Doug Snavely.
As I reach the end of my road trip, I think of the men and women who fought so hard to get the Skyway built. I imagine them, like their ancestors before them, riding covered wagons across hills and mountains into the sunset, like the pioneers of old, like a living portrait of American history.
SOME QUICK TIPS BEFORE YOU SET OUT ON YOUR TRIP.
Check your tires. The Dragon will wear on your tread, so make sure you have plenty.
Check your brakes. This includes brake fluid; make sure that it is not dark colored. The last thing you want is a brake failure on this road.
Get plenty of sleep. Even though it is just 11 miles, this journey is tough on the mind and body. Be prepared in both respects.
Be respectful of other drivers. The Dragon is simply too dangerous for any showboating or turf battles.
It is best to keep your clothes on!
DRAGON SLAYERS
Killboy has a team of photographers stationed along the famous Tail of the Dragon ready to capture your Dragon slayer moment.
Darryl and Lori Cannon are the owners of the Killboy team of professional photographers.
Killboy started in 2001 and has been featured in dozens of magazines, books, and even on The Discovery Channel, History Channel, and Travel Channel, killboy.com is your source for motorsports photography and area scenery around the world-famous Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap TN/NC. They recently won a Sports Emmy for Outstanding Camera work for the Dragon.
Our team of photographers are also available for private or corporate photography and video.
You can also find us at the Tail of the Dragon & Killboy Shack located on the North Carolina side of the Tail of the Dragon.
Our store is open from March through October, 9am – 6pm.
PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE ARE BY KILLBOY
MATTIE WILKIN
stood in the entrance to her flooded store, Tellico Goods and Gear. The rainstorm that day that had washed out the Skyway, and Mattie had expected some damage, but this was just overwhelming. There was water from the back almost to the front door, up to 11 inches in some places.
Unable to process what she was seeing, Mattie sat down at one of the checkout counters and began to think of all she’d have to do—from filing insurance, to cleaning up, to borrowing a Shop-Vac. The business was only four months old, and she felt overwhelmed—at least until her team arrived. Unable to process what she was seeing, Mattie began to think of all the tasks ahead and where to begin—from filing insurance, to mopping up mud, borrowing a Shop-Vac, and taking inventory of damaged products. The business was only four months old, and she felt overwhelmed—at least until her team arrived. She didn’t even call them. Her staff members just showed up on their own saying, “Hey I heard what happened. I want to be here to help clean up.”
Not only did her team arrive unprompted, but dozens of people from around Tellico Plains came with mops and cleaning supplies. Before even introducing himself, one passerby said, “I’m off work today. Do you need help cleaning up.” Others brought water bottles for the workers or bought items to help support the store.
Tellico Goods and Gear opened again in four days. It’s hard to think of a better impression the people of Tellico Plains could have made on Mattie, originally from Knoxville, who has opened up this new store in their closeknit town. And it seems that Mattie had made just as big an impression on them. Reviews of her store shine with praise about her friendly staff and great selection. As Mattie said, “I have a really wonderful staff… and a great crew.”
Tellico Goods and Gear sells outdoor gear like tents, boots, apparel, kayaks, hiking equipment, and more. It also features work and gifts from local artists and makers. Mattie is passionate about giving opportunities to local vendors, and she has work from over 50 from East Tennessee in her shop.
Tellico Goods and Gear recently celebrated its one-year anniversary, having opened on April 13, 2023. For their second year, Mattie is hoping to get even more involved in the community with group hikes, group bike rides, demos on how to set up a tent, and other events. The store strives to be inclusive of both locals and visitors, experienced outdoors men and people who have never been on a hike before. The store caters to a diverse range of customers, welcoming both locals and visitors, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts to beginners. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a gift, the store has something for nearly everyone. Tellico Goods and Gear.
There is a place where furniture is built with the hard work and custom-crafted elegance of our ancestors, a place where furniture is made by hand, not by machines on an assembly line. This place is Amish Elegance in Farragut, where you can buy classic, high-quality furniture, and the best part is that every single piece is custom. Customers can choose their own dimensions, style, materials, stains, and finishes. Additionally, all the pieces are all made using environmentallyfriendly processes.
Amish Elegance was founded in 2016 by Angie Carroll. Since then, it’s grown from just two customers to over 4,000. Angie is committed to providing the highest quality work possible. As she explains in a blog post, “Following a 30-year career in human resources, it was time for me to follow my passion and desire to open a small business. I have always believed that beautiful spaces and inspiring relationships lift the spirit and punctuate true happiness within. I explored ideas for businesses that aligned with this sentiment.
I decided to open a furniture and décor store with a business model that focused on people, superior quality products, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to honesty and integrity.”
Stop by their beautiful showroom today to see all kinds of unique furniture pieces. Don’t settle for assembly-line furniture. Instead, order a custom piece—just how you want it—and get something that was handmade right here in the United States.
Amish furniture has been around for hundreds of years. It became popular in America during the 1920s and 1930s as part of the American Folk Art Movement, a cultural trend that celebrated the artistic traditions of American settlers’ homelands, specifically handmade art. While most American folk art from that time faded into the background of American history, Amish furniture earned mainstream popularity that has withstood the test of time.
With so much competition in the modern furniture industry and new interior design trends emerging all the time, the fact that Amish furniture is still popular is quite impressive. So, what’s so special about Amish furniture? It all comes down to the benefits of Amish furniture. Rooted in the tradition of Amish furniture making, these benefits are just as relevant to furniture shoppers today as they were 100 years ago. In this article we will explain each of these benefits so you can see for yourself why Amish furniture is truly special.
1) Superior Craftsmanship
Amish furniture doesn’t refer to a specific style, (get that image of a shaker style chair out of your head, Amish furniture comes in every style, but we’ll talk about that more later) it refers to the legendary craftsmanship and proven techniques that Amish furniture makers have perfected over hundreds of years. Amish furniture is made from solid wood using simple tools such as hand saws, chisels, and planes.
Amish craftsmen utilize precision joinery techniques to create strong joints. Pieces of wood are carefully carved so they fit together like permanent puzzle pieces. These wood joinery techniques include box joints, bridle joints, mortise and tenon, dowel joints, and dovetail joints. This creates the clean and seamless look that Amish furniture is known for. Screws and glue are used to reinforce the stability of the furniture. To wrap up each masterpiece, the wood is meticulously sanded until smooth, and a premium finish is applied to enhance the natural beauty of the wood. The tradition of excellence and time-tested Amish furniture making techniques are passed from one generation to the next.
A lot has changed since the early days of Amish furniture, but Amish furniture makers maintain an unwavering commitment to superior craftsmanship because it’s so much more than a business to them. Amish furniture makers take pride in every piece, and it shows.
2) MADE IN THE USA
American made furniture is rare these days. Products that are made in the USA are generally better quality compared to products manufactured overseas. That’s because American manufacturers adhere to stricter quality standards and safety regulations, so their products are less likely to be defective, sub-par, or contain harmful materials. The businesses that have managed to continue thriving on US soil in the wake of cheap overseas manufacturing have been able to do so by producing better quality products.
3) HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: REAL WOOD, LEATHER, PERFORMANCE FABRICS
Amish furniture is made using high quality materials—real wood, leather, and performance fabrics. In addition to superior craftsmanship, using these materials makes for durable, longlasting, and beautiful furniture. Amish furniture makers wouldn’t touch cheap materials such as particle board, plastic, laminate, and veneer with a 10-foot-pole. The materials used in Amish furniture offer durability, longevity, and a luxury look and feel that cannot be impersonated.
AMISH FURNITURE MATERIALS:
• 100% American Hardwood: No particle wood, printed laminate, or veneer here, Amish furniture is made using solid American hardwoods. Some of the popular woods used in Amish wood furniture include Maple, Oak, Cherry, Elm, Hickory, and Walnut.
• Leather is a soft, natural, and durable material used predominantly for chairs, stools, and sofas. Leather cushions and leather upholstery add a layer of comfort and contribute to the luxury look of seating. There is a wide range of leather options that go far beyond black and brown.
• Performance Fabric: Performance fabric hasn’t been around since the dawn of Amish furniture, but it has been a welcome addition. Performance fabrics are stain-resistant, easy to clean, comfortable, and add a wide variety of colors, textures, and styles to the Amish furniture repertoire.
4) AMISH FURNITURE IS EXTREMELY DURABLE
Superior craftsmanship and high-quality materials come together to create an extremely durable product. These days, it’s difficult to find products that are made to last a lifetime, but Amish furniture is built just like it was in the good ole days—to last for generations. While it is luxury in terms of quality and a little pricier than factory-made “fast furniture”, Amish furniture isn’t meant to be wrapped in plastic and put in that sitting room you never use. Amish furniture is built to be used! Amish furniture is an investment you won’t regret because it will last.
5) CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS
The level of customization available in Amish furniture is unbelievable. If you can dream it up, an Amish furniture maker can pretty much make it a reality. From custom shelves to dining room tables with extra leaves to accommodate big families during the holidays and secret storage compartments, you never have to settle for furniture that’s good enough. You can create custom furniture that’s perfect for you in appearance and function. Custom furniture options include style and design (the possibilities are truly infinite),
size and dimensions, a massive range of wood, stain, finish, leather, and fabric options to choose from, and special features.
In the Amish furniture world, there is no such thing as cookie cutter furniture. Since every piece is handmade, every piece is one-of-a-kind. So even pieces that you see at an Amish furniture store are technically custom!
6) WIDE RANGE OF STYLES
A common misconception about Amish furniture is that it only comes in the traditional shaker style. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. As we just discussed, custom furniture is a huge part of the Amish furniture industry, so as new styles emerge, Amish furniture makers learn to create new designs to keep up with custom demands. The result is a massive repertoire of styles under the Amish furniture umbrella that continues to grow every year. Amish furniture styles include farmhouse, modern, contemporary, rustic, mini-
Experience the Amish Furniture Difference
Amish Elegance is the premier Amish furniture store in Knoxville, TN—providing customers in East TN and across the country with authentic handmade Amish furniture. Amish Elegance works with expert Amish furniture craftsmen in Ohio to create one-of-a-kind furniture. Their massive furniture showroom showcases the quality and variety of Amish furniture with bedroom suites, dining tables, sofas, recliners, desks, kitchen islands, and more in every style from modern to farmhouse. They are experts in custom furniture with a highly skilled design team ready to tackle any project.
Visit the Amish Elegance showroom or contact us today to learn more or discuss a custom project.
The rippling surface of the river reflects the serene sky above. Your paddle hits the water, first on one side then the other as you drift along the current. Maybe this is your ideal day in the great outdoors. Perhaps you’d rather go fishing or whitewater rafting—enjoying the thrill of being tossed like a leaf upon a tsunami by the violence of the rapids. Maybe you enjoy returning to nature through a camping trip, racing your bike along a gravel road, or clinging white knuckled to the sheer rock face you’re scaling.
Whatever your preference, River Sports Outfitters has what you’re looking for, from clothes and footwear to bikes, boats, and gear for camping, climbing, kayaking, and canoeing. They are your outdoor store with all the top brands including Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, Kuhl, Osprey, Chaco, and Keen. Ed McAlister founded River Sports Outfitters 40 years ago to offer the absolute best in outdoor gear and equipment. Whatever you need, he has it. They are a local business that cares about our community.
While you’re there, don’t forget to check out their massive climbing wall! Also, visit their website and social media pages for fun events and special offers.
(865) 523-0066 RIVERSPORTSOUTFITTERS.COM
To the casual observer, this photo may appear to be just a beautiful golf course. But if you’re planning a business meeting or event and considering a hotel to host it, Fairfield Glade Resort with our five championship golf courses is a far more exciting course of action. Just bring a mission statement and an agenda. We’ll supply everything else. Including some of Tennessee’s best golf to stimulate and excite your attendees. So says Golf Digest, Golfweek and Golf Magazine.
And if you’re on a collision course with boredom at work, we offer numerous highly enjoyable ways to reverse course, in addition to golf. Miles of trails for hiking. Pristine lakes for boating and fishing. A world class Racquet Center. And an equestrian facility for horseback riding and hayrides of course.
I-40 from Knoxville is an easy course to Fairfield Glade. We’re less than 70 miles away. Stay & Play Golf Packages available. Whether it’s business or pleasure. Here It’s pleasure. Of course.
Now the fun begins. For information or reservations, call 888-334-5233
www.fairfieldgladeresort.com
Located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322)
HAPPENINGS Summer
July 26
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Farragut Community Center
239 Jamestowne Boulevard Farragut, TN 37934
FARRAGUT
INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE
July 4th
9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Kingston Pike/Stadium Dr to Boring Road
This annual 4th of July parade features floats, bands, dancers, animals, antique cars and more!
VisitFarragut.org/events
June 20th
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Founders Park
405 N Campbell Station Rd, Farragut, TN 37934
Celebrate the longest day of the year with one of Tennessee’s oldest musical genres at the Bluegrass Summer Solstice concert.
VisitFarragut.org/events
July is National Parks and Recreation month, and we are celebrating by throwing a familyfriendly party. Make sure to stay tuned. More details about this event are coming soon!
FarragutParksAndRec.org
August 9th through 11th Time
Village Green Shopping Center
11435 Kingston Pike Farragut, TN 37934
Enjoy one of the best canine events in East Tennessee. This 3-day festival of fun, food, and shopping is highlighted by the Smoky Mountains Dock Dogs canine diving competition. Watch dogs leap through events such as big air and speed retrieve while enjoying food from local restaurants and food trucks. Shop from a wide variety of vendors and visit local merchants throughout the Village Green Shopping Center. This event is free to all canines and their owners!
ShopFarragut.com
FUN WITH THE FLEET
August 17th
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Mayor Bob Leonard Park
301 Watt Road Farragut, TN 37934
Kids have the opportunity to see, touch and climb on big trucks and equipment at Farragut’s Mayor Bob Leonard Park. this family-friendly free event in East Tennessee brings out the kid in all of us! More details will be available this summer.
FarragutParksAndRec.org
August 17th
5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Founders Park at Campbell Station 405 N Campbell Station Road Farragut, TN 37934
Each summer MamaJam Productions brings the FREE Lawn Chair Concert to Founders Park on Campbell Station Road for all to enjoy. Food trucks, crafts, games and more! Limited parking is available on-site, additional parking is available at the Farragut Community Center. We look forward to seeing you at this year’s Lawn Chair Concert. Stay tuned for the live music line-up!
Our sole purpose is to strengthen our community by providing you with a place to buy local, top quality fresh produce directly from the people who grew it. In doing this, we hope to give an opportunity to our local farmers, gardeners and crafts persons to promote their products. We hope to strengthen our local commerce by buying from our neighbors, as well as offering our families a healthier lifestyle.
DixieLeeFarmersMarket.com
KNOXVILLE
June 1st through June 16th
The University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN 37996
The Nief-Norf Summer Festival is a multidisciplinary new music festival that brings together performers, composers, improvisers, scholars, and music technologists for collaboration and exploration of contemporary music within an immersive environment. The festival provides opportunities for masterclasses, workshops, and performances with world-renowned faculty at the state-ofthe-art Natalie L. Haslam Music Center.
NiefNorf.org/summer-festival-2024
2024 NIEF-NORF SUMMER FESTIVAL
LAWN CHAIR CONCERT
First Friday of Each Month 5 p.m.
Explore galleries, studios, and artist collectives; roam through shops hosting open houses and local artist exhibits; enjoy performance art and live music in the streets and a variety of venues.
DowntownKnoxville.org/firstfriday-artwalk
July 4th
5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
World’s Fair Park
963 Worlds Fair Park Drive
Knoxville, TN 37916
This free festival delivers a wide variety of family fun including entertainment, activities and treats.
VisitKnoxville.com/events
July 12th through July 14th
Knoxville Convention Center
701 Henley Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Don’t miss Tennessee’s Largest Pop Culture Event, Fanboy Expo on July 12-14, 2024 from the Knoxville Convention Center. Come see why over 30,000 fans have attended our Summer events featuring Celebrity Guests, Comic Industry Pros, Cosplay, Vendors, Live Entertainment and much more!
FanBoyExpo.com/knoxville
2024 MARKET SQUARE FARMERS MARKET
Every Wednesday, May 1st through November 20th 10 a.m. 1 p.m. Market Square in Downtown Knoxville
CROSSVILLE
The Market Square Farmers’ Market is an open-air farmers’ market managed by Nourish Knoxville. Everything at the market is grown, raised, and/or made by our vendors within a 150-mile radius of Knoxville.
NourishKnoxville.org
The Golf Capital Of Tennessee
Laura A Mollenhour, CRPC™ Financial Advisor
TheKefauver
RESTAURANT SPACE FOR LEASE, SINGLE TENANT SEVERAL RETAIL AND SALON SPACES FOR LEASE
The Kefauver Hotel is located on Main Street in Madisonville. This unique building will be undergoing a major renovation. Madisonville is a Main Street community with an active Downtown Business Alliance. The restaurant has a large dining room with bar, private dining options and possibly a coffee shop.
