Call Beverly Bacon at
Distributed by mail monthly to the Loudon & Monroe lake and golf front communities including Tellico Village, Kahite,
Tennessee National, Harbour Place, Tellico Harbor, Foothills Pointe, and WindRiver.
The Loudon County Concert Band
Celebrate Christmas
The Loudon County Concert Band is pleased to announce their upcoming annual Christmas concert for Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 7:00 pm. The concert, Celebrate Christmas, will be held at The Venue at Lenoir City, 7690 Creekwood Park Blvd., Lenoir City, TN 37772.
The concert will feature outstanding arrangements of Christmas classics, including Feliz Navidad, Carol of the Drum, The First Noel, and Sleigh Ride. The concert will also feature several medleys of well-known Christmas songs including Christmas from the 50’s, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and Highlights from the Nutcracker Suite. The concert will also include a presentation of The Night Before Christmas, featuring narration by Joel Bonnan. Joel is a local actor and ten-year resident of Loudon County. As a retired meteorologist, one of his favorite duties was issuing weather forecasts on radio stations in the Midwest, the east coast, and from Texas to California. Joel has embraced performing in community theater for the last 30 years, including several productions with the Tellico Community Players. We are excited to have Joel join us for this year’s Celebrate Christmas concert.
Tickets for Celebrate Christmas with the Loudon County Concert Band are $12.00. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting the band’s website at www.loudonconcertband.org, and clicking on the “Events” tab. Tickets may also be purchased (cash or check) during regular business hours at Sloans Hometown Hardware in Tellico Village, or at The Venue at Lenoir City.
The Loudon County Concert Band is a volunteer, multigenerational, community group of nearly 50 musicians from Loudon County and the surrounding area. Under the musical direction of David Whipple, Jr., the band plays a variety of concert band literature including seasonal music, thematic pieces, songs from film and Broadway, patriotic marches, arrangements of music from composers like Leroy Anderson, George Gershwin and Aaron Copeland, as well as original works composed for concert band.
The band is always looking for new members and welcomes anyone high school age and up. We rehearse on Thursday evenings at 6:30, at the Community Church at Tellico Village. Please contact either our music director, David Whipple, Jr. at (865) 335-1543, or our manager, Kevin Meyer, at (586) 929-2333, and let us know of your interest.
The Loudon County Concert Band relies solely on the financial donations of individuals and businesses to operate. The band is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and all contributions are tax deductible. If you are interested in supporting the work of the band as either an individual or corporate sponsor, please contact our manager, Kevin Meyer at (586) 929-2333. You may also email us at loudonconcertband@gmail.com.
The Loudon Concert Band is a proud member of The Loudon County Chamber of Commerce and The Association of Concert Bands.
et another year has passed; each seems to go by more quickly than the last, and in many ways, this last year has been incredibly hard for so many.
If you are in a season of life that makes it hard to find the joy this Christmas, you are not alone. You may want to check out the Blue Christmas service held at Shepherd of the Lake Church on December 21st, at 5:00 pm. (see ad on 10A). This will be a special time of gentle, reflective worship for those facing grief or hardship during the holidays. All are welcome.
Even though many of us are struggling, it is good to remember that Christmas, itself, is message about hope - hope for the future, and a reminder that God is always there for us. Even as we decorate our homes with sparkling lights, the Light of Christmas pierces the gloom of winter symbolizing that hope. And as we race to shop for just the right gift, I pray we don’t lose sight of the greatest gift of all given to us by our Father in heaven – the true reason for the season – our savior Jesus Christ.
With all the uncertainty and stress in the world, it can be reassuring to reflect on what is truly important in our lives. Things like friends, family, and loved ones, not to mention living in beautiful East Tennessee. Reflecting on our amazing area, it is not just
The Unexpected Journey of Caregivers
By Diane Strever for Our PLaCe
Can you believe the Holidays are upon us, and 2026 is around the corner? Recently, I’ve been reading the book The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path. The author is Emma Heming Willis, the wife of actor Bruce Willis, who was diagnosed in 2022 with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), one form of dementia. Bruce continues to recognize his loved ones, even as his disease progresses. In her book, Emma combines her experiences and insights into caregivers’ self-care during this difficult and emotional role. She has recently given several TV interviews to discuss the unexpected journey she is navigating and how alone she felt until she reached out and asked for help.
Here is a summary of this excellent book, available at the Tellico Village Library:
» Making sense of the changing brain. Dementia can feel overwhelming. Learning what’s happening in the brain eases acceptance, reduces stress, and helps you plan for each day and the future. Knowing the different kinds of dementia and related behaviors helps you understand that your loved one’s actions are a result of the disease, not their heart.
» Build community and connection Caregiving takes a village, so find others on a similar journey. That network provides insight and information from those who have been through it. Emma feels that community and connection are some of the best parts of this experience. Let friends and family take care of you by doing your grocery shopping, giving you a day off, or calling you to check on your well-being. Seek out one of the Our PLACE Caregiver Support Groups and resources listed on the Our PLACE website.
» Make time for yourself. Statistics show that caregivers die at a rate that is 63% higher than others their age who are not caregivers, and 30% of caregivers
die before their loved one. This jumps to 40% for caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s and 70% for caregivers over 70. That’s startling, and Emma hopes her book will help caregivers understand that self-care is not optional; it is imperative.
» Focus on your brain health. Good nutrition, sleep, and staying socially connected are just a few of the helpful hints in this chapter.
» Expect a range of emotions. You will have conflicting emotions, and it’s essential to recognize that this is expected as you navigate the bumps and detours on this caregiver journey.
» Reframe the journey. This is one of the most powerful messages in the book. Emma writes: “While you didn’t choose the dementia caregiving path, you can choose how to accept and reframe your experience.”
We hope you will remember Our PLACE on the National Day of Giving, December 2nd, or if you receive a letter or email asking you to become an Our PLACE Angel. Your donations support programming filled with activities and therapeutic engagement for our participants while also providing caregivers with much-needed respite, resources, education, and understanding on their unexpected journey.
Our PLACE is an independent, 501c (3) nonprofit that seeks to improve quality of life by providing a day program of social interaction, enrichment, and therapeutic activities in a safe and nurturing environment for adults living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases. Our vision, supported by you, is to
for
You Are Not Alone. Let Our PLACE Help. We Offer: Free caregiver support groups where you connect with others facing similar challenges, receive emotional support, and advice. Visit https://www.ourplacetn.org/ caregiver-support for a current list. Free information about local and regional resources.
Educational opportunities. Respite so you can attend appointments, run errands, work, or relax.
A safe and nurturing environment for day program participants.
Why should you consider Our PLACE? Typically, our day program participants improve scores on cognitive tests by 3-4 points. This, combined with the respite caregivers receive, helps prevent, divert, or delay the need for long-term care and its associated financial and emotional costs.
We Understand How Difficult It Is to Take the First Step and Ask for Help.
The Edmund Fitzgerald – More than a Wreck
By Bo Carey
November 10th, 2025 - As I pen these notes, it seems odd that it was fifty years ago on this day when the Edmund Fitzgerald, largest boat in the Great Lakes at 729 feet length, perished in Lake Superior, with all 29 crewmen plunging to their icy deaths. The following year Gordon Lightfoot wrote the popular ballad which went to # 1 on the Canadian pop charts and # 2 in the U.S.:
“The lake, it is said, never gives up her dead, When the skies of November turn gloomy.
With a load of iron ore, twenty-six tons more, Than the Edmund Fitzgerald weighed empty.”
History shows the crew encountered a storm of massive proportions, with 90 mile per hour winds whipping snow about the boat. The waves that evening were reported to be 25 feet high. When we think of our placid Tennessee lakes, that is a difficult contrast. To put it in perspective, Lake Superior is about the size of the state of Maine and as deep as 1,300 feet in some areas. At 7:15 on the night of November 10, 1975, the last radar from the ship’s captain was received. The ship, captain and crew vanished in Canadian waters just 17 miles from Whitefish Bay, Michigan.
“And later that night, when his lights went out of sight, Came the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.”
Numerous expeditions searched for the remains 100 feet below the lake surface.
Jacque Cousteau’s son Jean-Michael led one of them. The 200-pound bronze deck bell was recovered in 1995, but further expeditions ceased due to opposition by the families of the dead. For this week’s 50 Year commemoration, a swimming relay was to be conducted spanning 411 miles from Whitefish Bay to the ultimate destination where the ore was to be delivered at the Detroit steel mills. The Edmund Fitzgerald’s tragic story rivals that of the Titanic, and Lightfoot’s haunting lyrics have much to do with its renowned place in the lore of the Great Lakes.
“In a musty old hall in Detroit they prayed
In the Maritime Sailors’ Cathedral.
The church bell chimed til it rang 29 times
For each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald.”
Bo Carey is a 6th generation Loudon County resident with a passion for local history. He is the owner of Greer’s Home Furnishings in Historic Loudon and is available for lectures or programs for any area group or civic club. Call (865) 659-2300. bocarey95@gmail.com | office 865-458-2046
“Unsilent Night” Event
in 3 East Tennessee Cities:
Knoxville - December 5th
Johnson City - December 7th
Chattanooga - December 9th
Amobile holiday soundscape comes to life across East Tennessee this December as Nief-Norf presents Unsilent Night in Knoxville, Johnson City, and Chattanooga — free and open to all community members!
Nief-Norf, a trailblazing contemporary music organization, is thrilled to host Unsilent Night in Knoxville for the thirteenth year, and inaugural events in Johnson City & Chattanooga.
Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night is a mobile outdoor sound sculpture in which the audience becomes the performer. Composed in 1992, this multi-track electronic ambient piece has become a beloved annual holiday tradition in over one hundred cities around the world.
All ages are welcome, and there is absolutely no performance or musical experience required! Each participant simultaneously plays one of four pre-recorded tracks from any device as they walk together on a pre-determined route, transforming the city into a living, luminous soundscape. The entire piece is 45 minutes long, creating a layered listening experience that constantly changes as it travels through space and time.
Participants will meet at 5:00 PM at a designated starting point in each city. For full details and schedule, visit www.niefnorf.org/unsilentnight.
About Nief-Norf:
Founded in 2005, Nief-Norf is a contemporary music organization dedicated to fostering bold collaborations among performers, composers, and researchers. Through its annual Summer Festival, public performances, and community initiatives, Nief-Norf champions adventurous new music that expands the boundaries of sound and performance. The organization’s work emphasizes interdisciplinary exploration — bridging composition, performance, technology, and visual art — while cultivating an inclusive community of artists from around the world. Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, Nief-Norf serves as a hub for creative experimentation and education, presenting innovative projects that connect professional musicians, students, and audiences through shared curiosity and discovery.
Holiday Invitations
The Holiday Season is here – a much-anticipated time of fun and fellowship. It’s a season when an avalanche of invitations and greetings tend to roll in from family, neighbors, co-workers and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year.
Like all human behaviors, there is accepted etiquette for both senders and recipients. Invitations should be thorough, clearly provide the what, when and where of the event, and allow invited guests ample time to plan and respond. Meanwhile, invitees should respond in a timely manner, ideally within a week, to allow hosts sufficient time to finalize arrangements.
Where greeting cards are concerned, posting them by the first week of December is suggested to ensure arrival before the last-minute Christmas crush. After all, Hallmark and the Greeting Card Association estimate that a total of 1.3 billion holiday pieces are mailed annually.
Humans being human and schedules being schedules, however, invitations often are declined or unacknowledged, and greeting cards unreciprocated. The result can be that invitations and cards stop coming.
An invitation, after all, does carry social risk for the host; no one likes to hear “no.” Good excuses aside, unacknowledged invitations or consistent decliners risk being dropped from future invitation lists. Similarly, where greeting cards are concerned, many senders will give nonreciprocal addressees a two-year grace period before trimming them from their mailing list.
There is one entity, however, that doesn’t suffer the angst of rejection. And that entity is actually the reason for the season.
Often an afterthought in the season’s glitter and gaiety, the greatest gift, invitation and greeting is the birth of Jesus Christ – the embodied fulfilment of God’s biblical promise of a savior for humanity. Perfect and sinless, Jesus was born man, suffered and died for our sins and rose from the dead three days later – the ultimate act of love (John 3:16-17).
By accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you accept His irrevocable offer of a full, abundant life – today and in the hereafter – one characterized by love, forgiveness and transformation. His invitation extends to everyone but shouldn’t be taken lightly or foolishly put off for tomorrow. After all, none among us knows the number of our days. Shed the loneliness, anxiety and confusion inherent in much of life today; accept His invitation, and find the comfort, peace and direction of following Jesus Christ in the New Year. First Baptist Church Tellico Village is ready to help. See the contact information below.
First Baptist Church Tellico Village (FBCTV) is a congregation centered on finding true peace in Jesus through learning and studying God’s Word. Pastors David Talley and
Kem Lindsey invite you to come and worship in person or online on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit FBCTV.org for more information or call 865-408-0110.
Joe Roybal
Pastor Dave’s Prayer: “Father, may all who read this find true peace in Jesus during this holiday season. And may You answer their prayers and may they know Your blessings in their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE 205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774 (865) 408-0110 www.fbctv.org
Looking at Things from a Different Angle
By PaStor PhiL viCkerS
Recently, Tellico Village posted on social media some aerial footage of our community which highlighted the beautiful change of colors we are currently witnessing. I must admit that when the video appeared on my feed, my first thought was, “I wonder where that is.” Then I realized that this was my home community! It was just from an angle from which I don’t usually see it.
In the classic film Dead Poet’s Society, an English professor named John Keating, played by Robin Williams, is trying to get his students to think outside of the box and see the world in a richer way. One of the many ways he does this is by climbing onto his desk. “Why do I stand up here?” he asks his class. “To feel taller,” one student responds, getting a laugh from his colleagues. “No,” Keating says, “to remind myself that we must constantly look at things in a different way. The world looks very different from up here. Come see for yourself.” At this prompt, the students take turns climbing upon the desk and viewing their familiar classroom from a new angle.
This exercise was of course about more than seeing a physical room in another way. Keating was inviting the students to look at art - and their whole lives - through the lens of their own experience and their own soul. The scene has always reminded me of a favorite quote from Emerson: “Refuse the good models, even those which are sacred in the imagination of men and dare to love God without mediator or veil.” I hear in those words from Emerson the same sentiment that Keating was trying to teach. Get out there and see the world from the lens of yourself, from your own unique angle.
December 14 - 3pm
Contact the church office for ticket availability.
December
- 4:30pm & 7pm December 15 - 4pm & 7pm
Here in Tellico Village, we are largely a community of folks from elsewhere, and inasmuch we bring a world of different experiences, worldviews, preferences, inclinations, commitments and passions. We all look on our world and community from our own angle. Sometimes this means we see issues from different perspectives, but I wonder if we might embrace this diversity and celebrate it rather than it being a cause for division. Everyone is not going to see things the same, but from a high enough perspective we see the beauty and pleasant order that God has set in place. Thanks be to God for different ways of seeing things, and that through them we might catch a fuller glimpse of God’s handiwork. After all, what we see depends not only on where we stand, but on what we’re looking for. From ground level, life can seem full of small irritations and differences. But when we climb a little higher—when we allow ourselves to see from another’s perspective— we discover that the view is far more beautiful and complete than we realized.
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church
143 Chota Center Loudon, TN 37774
865-816-4756
shepherdofthelaketn.org
Get the Most Out of Your Kitchen
We all want a beautiful kitchen, but a kitchen also needs to be a functional room where we cook, bake, and store essentials like food, supplies, and pots and pans. A functional kitchen has plenty of storage and is designed so you can quickly and easily find what you need and reach it.
ShelfGenie is a leader in making kitchens more useful
ShelfGenie designs, builds, and installs custom, glideout shelves that pull out the full depth of your existing cabinets and pantries to maximize usable storage and increase organization and accessibility. More shelves can fit into an existing cabinet or pantry, you can access the entire shelf front to back, plus each shelf is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship and can hold up to 100 pounds, so you can load them up.
Our process begins and ends with the homeowner
Our design consultant will get to know your needs during our free, in-home consultation. Together we will design a plan with your goals and needs in mind. The glide-out shelves are manufactured in our facility in Alabama to your exact specs. Our licensed, professional installer will then install your order in one day. Finally, your designer will come by on a follow-up visit to ensure you’re completely 100% satisfied.
Enjoy a more useful kitchen
Turn frustration with your kitchen into a joy. You can expect to increase your storage area by up to 50%, reduce wasted time looking for items, and avoid having to bend, twist, or reach into the backs of cabinets.
What our clients say
“ShelfGenie was the perfect solution to help me love my
kitchen again. The Designer and Installer were wonderful and took the time to make sure it perfectly fit my family’s needs.” - B.R., Knoxville
“We love the new shelves. They are truly life changing in the kitchen.” - R.K., Knoxville
“Great improvement to what I had and very happy with the people I worked with.” - S.O., Vonore
To learn more or to schedule your free consultation, call 865-270-5465 or visit www.shelfgenie.com.
ShelfGenie® 865-270-5465 www.shelfgenie.com
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Village Homes is proud to announce that only 5 new home sites are still available in Phase I and II of Coyatee Hills Reserve. Located in the North end of Tellico Village, only minutes from Lenoir City and West Knoxville. These lots are available as house/lot packages. Coyatee Reserve is a very private, wooded area with a nature trail surrounded by acres of common property. Call Village Homes at 865-458-6813 for availability, pricing, and home plans.
GOLF PRO TIPS
By Sharon LemeLman
Sharon recently received her Quarter Century Membership marking 25 years of work done in the name of The Professional Golfers’ Association of America.
Finish Position
How I love teaching the finish position! Yes, like a gymnast, swing and hold your follow thru.
In your finish position:
» The club should be across your back.
» Your body (shoulders, hips, and knees) should be rotated facing the target.
» Your back foot (right foot for right-handed players) will have rotated onto the toe.
» You are fully erect, and your weight is all on your lead foot (left for right-handed players).
» Try to hold it until the ball stops rolling. Now that we know where we should finish, the next question is why? Well let’s start with… it looks good! And when you look good, good things happen. First, the finish position forces the body to rotate, second it creates weight shift, third it creates balance, 4th it creates acceleration through the ball - not at it, and fifth it can help with tempo. All 5 of these components are essential for good golf. So, by working on the finish position we are developing great habits that will help you hit the ball better and be more consistent. Forget about the ball and look good!!!
Sharon Lemelman
“Finally found someone I can trust to look out for my best interest, someone who has produced sound results and someone in whom I have con dence. I highly recommend Marsh Wealth Management.”
— Lenny G. Client,
not paid
ABy yvonne marSh, CfP®, CPa
fter decades of working, saving, and planning, many people imagine retirement as a long-awaited finish line. But in reality, it’s just a new chapter — one that can feel surprisingly empty if the focus stays solely on finances.
As a financial planner, I’ve seen this pattern often. Clients spend their careers diligently building wealth, yet when the paycheck stops, they realize money alone doesn’t tell them how to spend their days. The financial security is there—but something is still missing.
retirees I’ve worked with have two things in common: a clear plan for their money and a clear plan for their days.
So, as you think about your own future, consider not only what you’re retiring from, but what you’re retiring to. Aligning your finances with your values may be the smartest investment you’ll ever make. Because true wealth isn’t measured by account balances. It’s measured by how fully you get to live the life you’ve worked so hard to build.
At Marsh Wealth Management, we help clients turn their financial success into lasting significance, with smart, coordinated strategies that support both your purpose and your peace of mind. Marsh Wealth Management, LLC
Fiduciary Registered Investment Advisor 504 Ebenezer Road Knoxville, TN 37923 865.622.2162
www.marshwealth.com
The information contained herein is general in nature and offered only for educational purposes. No investment decisions should be based upon this content.
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Discover, American Express, checks, or even cash!
#5: We’re a phone call away at 423-337-5537!
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#2: She’ll be impressed you remembered her favorite store!
#1: Best of all, along with our gift certificate comes our heartfelt appreciation for your business and wishes for a
holiday season with the woman in your
Where Style Meets Substance
THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE OF “PEARL SCOTT”
By Jill langer
I’m often asked where the name Pearl Scott originated, as it’s not a typical med spa name. I knew choosing something outside the mainstream was a risk, but the name is the heart of my clinic. It holds a story I love sharing.
Pearl Scott was born from both love and loss, inspired by the timeless elegance of my grandmother, whom I lost in 2022. She spent much of her career at Cain-Sloan in downtown Nashville, where she became the first Clinique representative—a role she held for more than 25 years. I can still hear her voice reminding me to wash my face, use moisturizer and sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. She happily volunteered to help friends and family with makeup and skincare for special occasions. She was the heart of my world, and her influence shaped my passion for helping others feel loved, welcomed, accepted, and beautiful.
We shared a special love for pearls. She often told me to wear them as symbols of strength, grace, and connection. Carrying her maiden name forward through this business is my way of honoring her legacy.
As the owner of Pearl Scott, my mission is simple yet deeply personal—to bring beauty back to timeless elegance. In a world where trends come and go, I believe true beauty lies in subtlety, refinement, and authenticity. My goal is to provide treatments and experiences that enhance natural beauty, never overwhelm it, and always leave clients feeling radiant and confident.
Pearl Scott Health & Beauty 11408 Kingston Pike, Suite 400, Knoxville info@pearlscottbeauty.com (865) 454-2122 | www.PearlScottBeauty.com
• Sofwave Skin Tightening & Lifting
• Cosmetic Laser Treatments
• Relax Wrinkles And Enhance Volume With Our Pearl Touch
• PRP Hair Rejuvenation
East Tennessee Area Beauty: Cardinals
Photographing the beauty of the Tennessee area, and
By Kalley CooK
Being that we’re in winter, and there’s a possibility of a good snow over the next few months, I figured I’d share some of my cardinal photographs in the snow. The northern cardinals are a favorite bird for many, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re not only beautiful but are sometimes seen as a symbol of a loved one who has passed away; I believe this is why my cardinal images are my most loved photographs.
Of course, the male is bright red whereas the females are more tan, but I can never pass up photographing the females as they’re pretty in their own way. Not all male cardinals are the same shade of red, and the brighter red males hold territories that have denser vegetation, feed young at higher rates, and have greater reproductive success than duller males.
Unlike in most northern songbirds, both the male and female sing and the females will actually sing a longer and a more complex song which I always enjoy hearing. I never grow tired of seeing cardinals myself, and there’s nothing like photographing them in the snow - though it can be a challenge. To have success getting great images of cardinals, or any other bird in the snow this winter, I suggest sitting in a ground blind close to your bird feeders. Photographing birds in the snow is one of my absolute favorite things to do during the winter.
Contact: Kalleybcook@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/kalleycookphotography https://kalleycook.smugmug.com/
If you’re looking to purchase a piece from Kalley Cook Photography such as a canvas, prints, magnets, calendars or coffee mugs for a gift for yourself or others, please reach out to me through my email. Thank you! kalleycookphotography@gmail.com
Don’t Miss Out on the Christmas Cheer When the Jingle
By Connie Ferraro – TelliCo Hearing SoluTionS
Of course, Christmas is about sharing time with family and friends, so for those who have developed hearing loss, the holidays can be an especially tough time. If you already have a great hearing aid, you will know the joy and improvement to the holiday experience that these modern devices can bring. But if you don’t, you may not even realize what you are missing!
People celebrate the holidays in all sorts of ways, but most of us have a few favorite sounds of the season.
With hearing aids, you can fully appreciate sounds like:
» Laughter from your children or grandchildren when they open their gifts.
» Church choirs singing.
» Christmas carolers going door to door
» the clatter of pans as your Christmas turkey goes in the oven.
» Laughter and conversation at the family dinner table.
» A performance of your holiday favorites.
» Your favorite Christmas movie.
Our hearing tests are free and easy. During your hearing test we will determine :
» The quietest sound you can hear at different pitches.
» How well you can hear speech.
» What type of hearing loss you have, if any
» How your ears respond to loud sounds.
These evaluations are quick, painless and provide valuable insight into your hearing health. Robert is a Certified Hearing Specialist and also a hearing instrument wearer who’s been in your shoes. Call us today!Is your hearing Christmas ready? It’s the most wonderful time of the year to hear.
Tellico Hearing Solutions, PLLC 865-635-1887 contact@TellicoHearingSolutions.com
in the Knoxville Area
» Nov 24–Jan 2 - Light the Park at Founder’s Park, Farragut
» Nov 26–30 - Fantasy of Trees, Knoxville Convention Center, 701 Henley Street, Knoxville
» Nov 28 - Celebration of Lights - Krutch Park, 504 Market Street, Knoxville
» Nov 28–Jan 4 - Holidays on Ice – Enjoy skating under the stars - Market Square in front of the Knoxville Chamber at 17 Market Square in Downtown Knoxville
» Nov 28–Jan 4 - Elf on the Shelf Adventure - pick up a pass at Mast General Store or Knoxville Visitors Center to guide you through the adventure.
» Nov 28–Jan 4 - Peppermint Trail
» Nov 29 - Knoxville’s Small Business Saturday – support local businesses, the heart of our community!
» Nov 30–Jan 1 - Light Up Lakeshore - Lakeshore Park, 5930 Lyons View Pike, Knoxville
» Dec 1–31 - Holiday Festival of Lights at The Cove at Concord Park
» Dec 5 - Old City Market 5PM – 9PM
» Dec 5–7 - Santa at the Sunsphere
» Dec 5–31 - Knoxville Smokies Holiday Light at Covenant Health Park
» Dec 6 - Rocky Hill Christmas Parade & Festival
» Dec 6–20 & Jan 17–Mar 28 - Winter Farmers Market at Market Square
» Dec 6–7 - Old North Knoxville’s Victorian Holiday Home Tour
» Dec 6–7 & 13–14 - Holiday Market (World’s Fair Exhibition Hall)
» Dec 7 - Holiday Marketplace at Ijams Nature Center
» Dec 12 - Candlelight Tours at Blount Mansion
» Dec 12–13 - Candlelight Tours at Mabry-Hazen House
» Dec 13 - Tour de Lights & Market at Mary Costa Plaza - bike ride and holiday market. 3:30pm-7:30pm
» Dec 31 - New Year’s at the Sunsphere
December In the Garden
By liSa grugin
Ah, December - that magical time of year when you can finally stop pretending you’ll get around to re-landscaping your entire yard and instead focus on pretending you’re done for the season. While your garden may look like it’s in hibernation, there’s still plenty to do! If you’ve read my articles before, you know the first thing I’m going to say: Please resist the urge to “tidy up” too much! Many beneficial insects and pollinators are wintering over in leaf litter and hollow stems, and leaves are a great fertilizer. When you feel that urge to rake and clip everything down to a sterile moonscape, blow the leaves onto your lawn, run over them with the lawn mower, and then blow the bits back into the beds or leave them on the grass. Voila! You have tidied, fertilized, and protected pollinators all at once.
Other December To-Dos
(a.k.a. Excuses to Escape the Chaos of the Holidays)
1. Clean and Sharpen Tools
Instead of cleaning all the leaves up and chopping on your plants, clean up your tools. Remove caked-on soil, sharpen blades, and oil hinges. You and your plants will be much happier next spring when you are making nice, clean cuts and not gnawing branches off like a beaver.
2. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch
If you haven’t, you still can! Apply a 3 inch blanket of mulch to protect roots from winter’s temperature swings. Think of it as tucking your plants in for a long nap. Remember: donuts, not volcanoes!
3. Check on Bulbs
If you forgot to plant spring bulbs, congratulationsyou’re right on time for panic planting. In Zone 7, you can usually still sneak bulbs into the ground early in the month. Please follow depth recommendations and plant right side up.
4. Pruning: The Great December Debate
Pruning in December is a bit like cutting your own hair - it can go very right or very wrong.
Do Prune:
» Dead or diseased wood: If a branch looks sad, brittle, or fungus-infested, it’s safe to say goodbye.
» Evergreens for holiday décor: Go ahead and snip some pine, cedar, magnolia, or holly for wreaths and garlands. It’s festive and practical. Just don’t denude the poor plant.
» I have also cut some of my perennials down. Peonies, daylilies, iris, and hostas tend to hold on to disease and insects if not cut back.
Don’t Prune (Yet):
» Most spring flowering shrubs - like hydrangeas, azaleas, and forsythia - have already set their buds for next spring. Prune now and you’ll be cutting off future blooms, so wait until after they bloom before you trim.
» Other shrubs and trees can be trimmed between now and the end of January. I will talk more about that next month.
» Please consider leaving perennials and grasses alone so that our pollinators can overwinter in them.
Christmas Plants:
The Good, the Bad, and the Stressful Nothing says December like plants that will die immediately after the holidays. But with a little care (and perhaps restraint), you can keep them going into the new year.
» Poinsettias: These tropical beauties are the divas of December. Keep them away from drafts, direct heat, and overzealous watering. Despite their reputation, they aren’t particularly poisonous. If you must buy one from a box store or grocery store, please pull the plastic wrap down so you can at least see if it is broken or diseased.
» Amaryllis: These bold bloomers are like the fireworks of winter. They’ll thrive on a sunny windowsill, and with a little patience, they can be coaxed into blooming again next year. They are poisonous, however, so keep them away from pets and kids.
» Christmas Cactus: These are the overachievers of the holiday lineup. Give them bright, indirect light and moderate watering, and they will reward you with bursts of flowers sometime between November and March. All Zygo cacti are tropical, so don’t place them in direct sun and don’t let them dry completely out, especially after bud set. They will punish you by throwing all their buds on the floor.
» Cyclamen: Delicate, elegant, and completely indifferent to your feelings. Keep them cool and don’t overwater. When they wilt in February, just tell yourself they are “resting” and stop watering. They may come back in the fall, and they may not. If you keep your house warm, just say goodbye.
The Final Word
Let’s face it, most of us have too much on our plate in December to do much gardening. That’s okay. Prune a little, mulch a bit, sip something warm, and call it a day. After all, even the most dedicated gardener deserves a break. Your plants will wait until after the holidays.
with Glory Ledbetter, ND & Ken Kuzel, MSc
Monday, December 15, 2025
Rarity Bay Community Activity Center
150 Rarity Bay Parkway, Vonore, TN 37885
6:30 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm Program
Are you concerned about your bone strength/density, osteoporosis risk, or muscle loss?
Join Glory and Ken for an informative talk about common bone health concerns, including how to evaluate, protect and possibly improve your bones at any age. A comparison of the REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi Spectrometry) bone ultrasound, and the DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) will be discussed. Discover how proactive steps today can lead to stronger, healthier bones tomorrow! Door Prizes: 1REMS bone scan + 4 - BioCharger energy sessions.
CHEO programs are free for members, with a $10.00 suggested minimum donation for all guests (cash or check please). The CHEO organization supports holistic and integrative wellness, providing the community with many opportunities to discover new pathways to well-being.
CHEO of Greater Knoxville Area is a non-profit organization and expressly disclaims all liability.
www.CheoKnox.org
Knoxville Children’s Theatre presents:
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jr.
DECEMBER 5 - 21, 2025
Knoxville Children’s Theatre, in partnership with the Clayton Foundation, will present a live production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. The play will be performed from December 5- 21st, with showtimes on Thursdays and Fridays at 7pm, Saturdays at 1pm and 5 pm, and Sundays at 3pm and 6pm.
The production will take place in Knoxville Children’s Theatre’s exciting new location at 747 World’s Fair Park. Free onsite parking is provided.
Because of his shiny nose, Rudolph doesn’t feel like he belongs in Christmastown and sets off to find a place that accepts him. Along the way, he encounters fellow misfits and learns that being different is what makes you special. When a storm threatens to keep Santa’s sleigh grounded, Rudolph must find the courage to save Christmas!
The production features sixteen talented young actors, ages 8 to 16. The cast includes Sophia Stiffler as Rudolph, Robert “RJ” Bumpus as Hermey, and Caedmon Gifford as Yukon Cornelius and Coach Comet. Also joining them in Christmastown are KCT veterans Madisyn Beckman as Mrs. Donner/Plane, Zoe Brockman as Mrs. Claus/Dolly, Amelia Carroll as Clarice/Train, Julian Daniel as Donner/Cowboy, Desmond Gondo as Sam, Maggie Howard as Clarice’s Father/Charlie-in-the-Box/Bumble, Maggie Ingle as Boss Elf/Aviator Elf/Chronicler Reporter/Spotted Elephant, Annabelle Nance as Elf 3/Reindeer 3/Daily Mail Reporter, Beckham Read as Elf 1/Reindeer 1/Herald Reporter, and Grayson Wright as Elf 2/Reindeer 2/Chicago Reporter. Making their KCT debut are Hattie Halter as Young Rudolph/Bird-Fish, EbedMelech McRoy Jr. as Santa/King Moonracer, and Molly Osborne as Elf 4/ Fireball/Daily News Reporter.
The play is directed by KCT’s Director of Education and Outreach, Taylor Wingate. The scenic design is led by Ben Ward and assisted by Harrison Dailey and Zee Carnes. Zowie Cook Aspen serves as costume designer and is assisted by Clorrisa Mortenson, Luna Chavez, and Nathan Criddle. The props are designed by Harper Knight and assisted by Elizabeth Daily and Nora Haliburton. Chloe Beeler serves as the lighting designer. The play is stage managed by Lyric Westerfield and assistant stage managed by Lydia Komeshak. This production is made possible with support by Clayton Foundation, Knox County/ Dept of Treasury/ Arts and Culture Alliance, Tennessee Arts Commission, Firstbank, Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union, City of Knoxville, Smile Doctors, Pugh CPAS, and Home Federal Bank.
KCT is East Tennessee’s leading producer of plays for children and families.
TGive the Gift of Organization: Tailored Closet’s Custom Solutions
he holiday season is a time of warmth, love, and giving. As the Christmas bells chime and the festive spirit fills the air, consider offering a unique and practical gift this year: the gift of organization. A clutter-free, well-organized space can transform one’s daily life, bringing a sense of calm and order amid the chaos. This Christmas, consider gifting a custom-made closet from The Tailored Closet, where precision meets elegance, and functionality harmonizes with style.
At The Tailored Closet, each closet is meticulously crafted, using only the highest quality materials. What sets these closets apart is their ability to provide up to 40% more storage space than traditional wire systems, ensuring that every inch of your closet is maximized efficiently. These custom-designed closet systems not only optimize space but also add a touch of sophistication to your living environment.
Work with the Best in the Business
Choosing The Tailored Closet means investing in expertise. Their team of experts initiates your journey to your dream closet with an in-home consultation. An experienced space-planning expert attentively listens to your desires and requirements, discussing tailored solutions that respect your needs, style preferences, and budget constraints. What sets The Tailored Closet apart is their innovative approach, using proprietary 3D CAD design software to bring your dream closet to life before your eyes, ensuring a perfect alignment with your vision.
Personalize Your Space
Customizing your closet to your needs and lifestyle is The Tailored Closet’s mission. Their specialists meticulously assess your habits and requirements, providing tailored closet design and accessories. They craft creative closet organizers for your shoes, seasonal clothing, and accessories, ensuring efficient and accessible organization.
With various choices including shelves, cabinets, racks, valet rods, bins, and more, you can create a personalized organization system that perfectly suits your unique needs.
Creative design options are endless, with options such as jewelry organizers, safes, integrated ironing boards, and discreetly placed televisions. Your closet goes beyond practicality, reflecting your personality and style. The Tailored Closet offers various decorative options and finishes to ensure your closet seamlessly complements your existing décor.
Decorative Finishes and Design:
The Tailored Closet values the marriage of organization and aesthetics. Their custom closets offer a wide range of colors and finishes to suit various tastes and styles, including rich wood grains, traditional laminates, and luxurious Italia. Enhance your custom closet with stylish door or drawer styles and decorative molding for added elegance. Select from finishes like classic white, chocolate apple,
or antique white to match your existing cabinetry. For an extra touch of flair, choose stylish hardware finishes for wardrobe poles, drawer handles, and accessories to create a polished and cohesive look.
This Christmas, make a lasting difference in the lives of your loved ones by giving them the gift of organization. Tailored Closet’s custom solutions not only declutter spaces but also enhance lifestyles, making daily routines more manageable and enjoyable. Gift certificates from The Tailored Closet are available, allowing your friends and family the freedom to design their dream closets according to their preferences. Embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season – a well-organized, stylish closet awaits, courtesy of The Tailored Closet.
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION The Tailored Closet (865) 777-0306 TailoredClosetKnoxville.com
KNOXVILLE’S #1
for 15 years with millions of square
installed in the Knoxville area.
MThe Importance of Keeping Your Custom Garage Floor Clean
ost of us consider our homes as a sanctuary, a place where we can relax, unwind, and enjoy the finer things in life. We invest time and effort into making our interiors stylish and functional, and rightfully so. However, one often neglected but integral part of our homes is the garage. Today, many garages have evolved into an extension of our living space, and they deserve just as much attention. One way to elevate your garage’s functionality and aesthetics is through a custom garage floor.
A custom garage floor can add beauty and utility to your garage, turning it into a finished space that is not only visually appealing but also more user-friendly. Whether you use your garage for parking your vehicles, storage, sports equipment maintenance, a laundry center, a workbench, a home gym, or a hobby area, a well-designed garage floor can make a world of difference.
PremierGarage, a leader in garage flooring solutions, offers a wide range of color and finish options to trans form your garage’s look and feel. Say goodbye to un sightly oil stains, peeling epoxy-coated floors, and hello to a showroom-quality garage floor. One of the standout features of PremierGarage’s commercial-grade hybrid
polymer system, developed by Sika, a renowned name in Resinous Flooring Systems worldwide, is the superior finish it delivers. Here’s why it’s essential to keep your custom garage floor clean and well-maintained:
» Durability: PremierGarage’s hybrid polymer system cures two times harder than traditional materials. This toughness means it can withstand the rigors of daily garage life, from hot tires leaving no unsightly marks to abrasions that won’t lead to peeling or blistering. A clean and well-maintained garage floor will continue to look stunning for years to come.
Quick Installation: You won’t have to wait for
» Easy Maintenance: Keeping your custom garage floor clean is a breeze. The hybrid polymer system is designed to be easy to clean, saving you time and effort in maintaining your garage’s pristine appearance.
» Enhanced Safety: PremierGarage’s custom garage floor is UV, chemical, stain, and slip-resistant. This added safety feature ensures that you and your loved ones can move about the garage without worrying about potential hazards.
Your garage deserves as much attention as the rest of your home. A custom garage floor not only adds style and functionality but also protects your investment. With PremierGarage’s hybrid polymer system, you can enjoy a
