BUT WAIT… there’s more! You know that for more than 20 years, CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee has a stellar reputation for their excellent residential and commercial painting, but did you know they can do so much more? From wallpaper removal, to deck construction, to crown molding installation, CertaPro is your one-stop-shop for repairs, refinishing, AND interior and exterior painting.
11 Ramblin’ Joe’s Coffee
A small-town gem in historic downtown Lenoir City.
13 Myrick Lighting & Design
Why most outdoor lighting gets it wrong.
20 Closets by McKenry Spring into warm weather with an all-access pantry.
24 Traveler’s Caffe
Now is the perfect time to book your summer vacation.
37 Parker Wellness
Why early dementia often goes undetected and what to watch for.
COMING OFF a couple of very busy months of traveling almost every weekend can be quite exhausting! They say that “burnout” is not simply being overly busy with needto-do tasks but being underly busy with things that you actually want/like to do. It’s the balance that’s key it seems.
So I am trying to adopt the YOLO (You Only Live Once) approach this year. Not in a reckless sense but definitely more intentional. I have felt like I was being swept along with the tide - just doing the next thing that needed to be done. I would like to find my footing, to be more deliberate with my activities and not just following perceived obligations, you know?
Last year it was decided, with our dear friends from SC, to tackle the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. We had all been on bits and pieces but wanted to travel it a section at a time in order to complete the entire roadway. The mountains are my happy place, and I love a good
road trip, so I am excited to be planning our next leg for this spring. Score one for YOLO!
Additionally, one of my favorite singing groups is doing a world tour this year. The first one in many years, so as a super fan I am thrilled! I already have tickets to two different U.S. locations and am really excited about exploring the cities where I will be - like mini vacations! Another score for YOLO.
And not one, but two of my daughter’s best growing-up buddies are getting married this year. One is this spring and the other in the fall. I love weddings (as long as I don’t have to plan them!) because they are so life affirming, hopeful, and fun. Ahhh love!
I realize that writing all of this has just been a pep talk for myself, but it worked! I have events planned - that I am looking forward to - and spread out through most of this year. Please join me for a year of YOLO!
Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor
Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor
Brett Cafferty Marketing + Operations
Kendra Menendez Editor + Administration
Meredith Hancock Design + Production
Contact Information Post Office Box 24532 Knoxville, TN 37933
865.640.3015
Reach us Online
info@everythingknoxville.com
EverythingKnoxville.com
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Everything Knoxville is distributed by mail to hundreds of neighborhoods in Bearden, West Knoxville, Farragut, Hardin Valley, and beyond.
Expert Painting…and So Much More
AS MANY OF you may know, CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee has been painting homes and businesses in our area for more than 20 years. Their familiar logo-wrapped vehicles have been seen in numerous neighborhood driveways, as well as the UT Vols practice facility and the base of the iconic Sunsphere. Their extensive capabilities, breadth of experience, and business longevity can be attributed to the company’s certainty promise of a “job well done.” This promise comes directly from a consistent presentation of their job expectationsfrom required supplies to project timeline - making CertaPro Painters a go-to for many residential and commercial property improvements.
What you may not know is that CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee does so much more outside of painting itself. They always address wall and ceiling repairs (with wallpaper removal and lead/asbestos testing if necessary) first so that sur face problems are fixed before actual painting begins. Along with reliable paint crews, CertaPro also has carpentry crews ready to handle larger repair issues both inside and outside your home. Please see the comprehensive list of ser vices on the following page and read about a few recent projects that may open your eyes to all that CertaPro can do for you. Co-owners Devin Taylor and Ben Johnson strive for every customer to become a “customer for life” by offering dedicated project managers, consistent guidelines, and work reviews to ensure that CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee delivers on their promises.
Contractor Drops the Ball… CertaPro Picks It Up
Homeowner Mark Davis now truly knows the meaning of “professionalism.” After having new flooring installed, Mark was told that the contractor would be able to complete the upgrade by installing trim and adding a set of stained doors - but unfortunately, the “one contractor and done” did not work out. Thankfully, CertaPro had already quoted the job and were able to step in to finish the remodel. Mark was impressed with their communication and work manship. Based on CertaPro’s “excellent professionalism,” he recommends them to friends and family who love the home’s transformation. “We are very
happy with the end result,” said Mark. “The new woodwork and doors make a huge difference. It feels like a new home!”
Exterior Complete… Time to Go Inside
When Trey Cain, one of the Managing Partners of the Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, first began updates to the 1980s era hotel, the exterior paint was the refresh he knew the property needed. CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee’s Commercial Business Developer, Crystal Wicker, helped get the job done. The project involved multiple colors over a large building (along with incorporating changes, all within the original timeframe), and Trey and his other managing partners agree that the end result “looks fantastic.”
• Painting and Staining - Interior and Exterior
• Kitchen Cabinet Painting
• Interior Trim and Crown Molding Installation
• Drywall & Ceiling - Repair and Retexturing
• Carpentry and Repair - Interior and Exterior
• Deck Construction
• Porch Re-Screening
• Wallpaper Removal
• Door and Wood Stripping and Refinishing
Trey appreciated how communicative the whole team was throughout the work - even sending daily email updates on progress. He found that CertaPro “worked quickly and professionally. The ceilings look brand new, and the barn door installations have transformed the look of those rooms. I would highly recommend CertaPro without any hesitation. They do a great job!”
So when the decision to continue the renovation on the hotel’s interior was made, Ramsey Hotel was relieved to find that CertaPro was experienced and ready to achieve these next steps also. The interior upgrades called for two specific projects - One: removing the dated popcorn ceilings in the hallways and guest rooms that required covering everything - carpet, drapes, furniture, etc. - in protective plastic, and two: installing more than a hundred sliding mirrored barn doors in place of the present hinged doors. Trey was impressed with the thorough estimating process. “By the time we first met, CertaPro had already done some research about how to approach the projects and came in prepared to discuss the nuances,” he said.
Another Project… Another Success
Claire Borsari knew exactly who to call when she was ready to add fresh exterior paint to her 1915 Craftsman home. She has had “excellent” experiences with CertaPro on previous projects. With the age of the home, some carpentry and repair would be necessary before painting could begin, and she knew they would provide the quality workman-
The best part of working communication and punctuality are exemI especially appreciate that there’s a specific contact person for each project and that person always answers (cheerfully!) when I call and takes charge of finding the answer to
The completed project has the home’s facade structurally restored and repainted, enhancing the beauty and charm of the Craftsman-style house. Claire is delighted. “I love the dark red accent color around the window frames. CertaPro met our high expectations once again!”
INLife-Changing Travel
BY WAYNE BARBER, FOUNDER OF PURPOSE DRIVEN TOURS
LATE 2006, as a result of conversations with friends and encouragement from family and what we feel was inspiration from our Heavenly Father, my wife, Corrine, and I began Purpose Driven Tours. Our first three trips were the following year in 2007. We are now in our 20th year of travel, having hosted dozens of trips with hundreds of travelers from more than 30 U.S. states and Canada, and have no doubt that what began as a retirement ministry is what we have been in training to do for most our lives!
These tours, covering all 50 states and 6 Canadian provinces throughout the years, have positively changed both our lives as we have been blessed to meet incredible guides and friends from around this great nation who have inspired us with the truths of God’s creation and the Christian Heritage of our country. It continues to be our passion to share these places, people, and truths with as many travelers as possible. We believe these trips are used to draw many to our Savior and strengthen those who already know Him.
Our 56 passenger luxury motor coach is always limited to 41 people including
staff for optimum comfort and enjoyment. We book great hotels, wonderful meals, and have a no alcohol policy to open the door to Christian fellowship and a more profound connection with God while exploring His creation. From the moment the tour begins to the time it ends, all meals, tips, admissions, etc. are covered, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey!
Our years of experience in the travel industry have taught us that unique events make great memories. Our upcoming 2026 tours include the Grand Staircase out west, a Rocky Mountains adventure, and a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula - all allowing special stops and one-of-a-kind experiences along the way - with more great locations in 2027. Some tours sell out as much as three years ahead, so visit our website at PurposeDrivenTours.org for more information and to reserve your spot now. Through our distinct travel experience, we hope our travelers will be inspired by seeing, hearing, and tasting God’s goodness and will come home with a renewed passion for Jesus.
Purpose Driven Tours is a 501(c)(3)
PDT Traveling Philosophy
Fellowship is more than coffee and donuts, covered dish meals, or fun tours. It is Christians learning, growing, being challenged, and interacting together to become better equipped to impact our world for Christ.
The PDT Promise
To provide life-changing travel for growing Christians based on travel with wholesome entertainment, great food at unique places, stays at fine hotels, and the best tour guides… all for an exceptional price.
not-for-profit ministry, and gifts of any kind are tax-deductible but not solicited. Neither board members or the founder and director receive compensation for our work, but serve as part-time and full-time volunteers. Our board is composed of dedicated Christians who serve in business, education, and ministry training. We have recently added a Knoxville area representative - our daughter, Beverly Brower. Visit our website or email me at Wayne@PurposeDrivenTours.org with additional questions.
Purpose Driven Tours
601.672.8733
PurposeDrivenTours.org
Artists on Location 2026: A Plein-Air Painting Event
Outdoor Painting April 19-23 • Art Sale April 24-25
THE GUILD of the Knoxville Museum of Art presents Artists on Location 2026, a weeklong pleinair painting event that brings local and regional artists to Knoxville and culminates in a 2-day art show and sale at the museum. The show and sale will be held at Knoxville Museum of Art on Friday, April 24, from 6 to 9 pm and Saturday, April 25, from 10 am to noon. Both are free and open to the public. Artists on Location promotes the museum’s connection to the local and regional art community and provides both new and seasoned collectors with a rare opportunity to buy original paintings of Knoxville and East Tennessee.
Beginning Sunday, April 19, through Thursday, April 23, talented artists selected through a rigorous juried process will be painting outdoors around the Knoxville area. The public is invited to watch the artists in action as they capture on canvas a wide variety of subject matters, from urban street scenes to pastoral garden settings. The artists’ specific locations will be published on the KMA website at KnoxArt.org prior to the event and will be profiled on the
event’s Instagram page @artistsonlocation. The pieces painted that week will be sold on April 24-25 at the Knoxville Museum of Art. New this year, the artists will submit one small work on a 5x7 inch canvas to be a part of Saturday’s “La Petite Show.” This change allows new or young collectors at the beginning of their art journey a chance to acquire original art at a lower price point.
Up to $4,000 will be awarded to the artists in prize money. Proceeds of art sales will benefit both the participating artists and the Knoxville Museum of Art. Artists
on Location is organized by the Guild of the Knoxville Museum of Art, a volunteer organization that raises funds for the Knoxville Museum of Art and promotes the museum’s programs in the community while educating and building appreciation for the visual arts. The museum is located in downtown Knoxville at 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive and is open to the public at no charge Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 1 to 5 pm. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit KnoxArt.org.
Custom Glide-Out Shelves for More Space, More Access, and More Joy
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Getting personalized attention from the ShelfGenie team is easy. Here’s what you can expect from our custom design process.
• Free Design Consultation: Work with a ShelfGenie designer to create a custom solution to solve your home pain points, eyesores, and trouble areas.
• Custom Solution: Your personal designer will present a design plan built just for you and your needs and show you a 3D-rendered plan of what your future home will look like.
• Professional Installation: We handle it all. After measurements are taken and
your products are hand-crafted, your installer comes to your home and installs everything for you in one day.
Schedule Your Free Design Consultation Today! One of our talented ShelfGenie designers will come to your home and create a design plan, customized just for you - no obligation required. Visit ShelfGenie.com or call us today at 865-409-1197.
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Ramblin’ Joe’s Coffee: A Small-Town Gem
BY SHARON VALENTINE, OWNER OF RAMBLIN’ JOE’S COFFEE (FORMERLY UGLY MUG)
NESTLED
IN THE charm of historic downtown Lenoir City, Ramblin’ Joe’s Coffee is a warm and familiar landmark where neighbors gather, visitors linger, and newcomers instantly feel at home. Though the sign outside may have changed, the heartbeat of our café remains exactly the same - family-owned, communityrooted, and dedicated to crafting an unforgettable coffee experience since its founding in 2017.
An Exciting Menu - Inspired by Joe’s Travels
At the core of the café is its award-winning, Tennessee-roasted coffee. Each batch is crafted in small quantities to ensure rich flavor, freshness, and a taste that reflects both quality and regional pride. Whether you’re grabbing a bold morning brew or one of the café’s inventive signature drinks, every cup is brewed with intention.
While Ramblin’ Joe’s holds onto its roots, the menu never stops growing - thanks to Joe’s travels across the country and beyond. He brings back flavors, ideas, and inspirations that transform into creative drinks and foods you won’t find anywhere else in town.
April’s seasonal favorite is the Wyoming-inspired huckleberry lineup, featuring beautifully balanced sweet - tart drinks that capture the spirit of the mountain west. These seasonal and travel-inspired flavors keep regulars delighted and always curious about what Joe will bring home next.
Ramblin’ Joe’s also takes pride in offering a delicious gluten-free menu. Popular items include gluten-free quiches (hearty, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or brunch) and gluten-free scones (tender, lightly sweet, and ideal alongside a hot latte). And for those with a sweet tooth, our pastry case is a treasure in itself, featuring unique creations such as Dubai Chocolate Pop -Tarts (rich, decadent, and inspired by bold global flavors) and Buttermoon Pound Cake (soft, buttery, and crafted with the café’s signature flavor). These specialties, whether gluten-free or gloriously indulgent, showcase the creativity and care behind every item.
A Small-Town Community Vibe
Beyond the menu, it’s the atmosphere that makes Ramblin’ Joe’s truly special. From students tapping away on laptops to longtime friends sharing stories over steaming mugs, the café has become a gathering place where memories are made daily. Whether you’re dropping in for your morning pick-me-up, meeting friends on our patio before a local shopping excursion, or trying one of Joe’s tasty pastry creations, you’ll find something that makes you want to return again and again.
What started as a small family dream has grown into a beloved local hub, still run with the same values and hands-on care that shaped it from the beginning. The friendly faces, cozy atmosphere, and unmistakable sense of community have all remained untouched. As locals often say, “Everything feels the same - just the name is different.”
Hot & Cold Coffee, Smoothies, Teas, Lemonades & More
Drive-Thru Window, Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Open Weekdays 6:30 am to 7 pm
Saturdays 7 am to 7 pm
Sundays 8 am to 3 pm
108 South B Street, Lenoir City, TN 37771
Ramblin’ Joe’s Coffee LC
CBY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM
ANADIAN SINGER-SONGWRITER
Tenille Townes is bringing her heartfelt storytelling and stripped-down musical style to Knoxville on April 18th, performing at the intimate Open Chord as part of her upcoming The Living Room Tour.
Speaking recently with Boomerocity, Townes shared her excitement about her tour and the new music that inspired it. Her latest album, The Acrobat, represents a deeply personal chapter in her career - one created in the comfort of her own home studio in Nashville. The project marks a return to the core of her songwriting craft. Rather than building the album around elaborate studio production, Townes focused on capturing the emotional truth behind each song. “My mission with this was just… trying to strip back the noise of everything and get back to the heart and the truth of the matter of how it feels to pick up a guitar, play a song,” she explained.
For those who may be unfamiliar with her, Tenille shares, “I’m a singer songwriter… my dad helped me make the short, you know, 47 hour drive from my hometown here to Nashville just over 10 years ago. And I’ve been chasing the dream all along.” Her journey has included sharing stages with major artists such as Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, and even opening for rock icon Stevie Nicks “Oh, my gosh. Yes. That was a dream,” Townes said of the experience. “She was amazing… I was so honored to get to be a part of that tour.”
Now Townes is taking a more intimate approach to performing. Her upcoming tour is designed to feel like a gathering of friends rather than a traditional concert. “These are going to be very intimate shows, very storyteller, songwriter vibes,” she said. “The tour is called The Living Room Tour, because I really do want it to feel like a living room.” Knoxville fans will have the opportunity to experience that atmosphere when Townes performs at the Open Chord this month. Known for its close-up stage and listening-room vibe, the venue is the perfect setting for Townes’ acoustic storytelling style.
For readers who want to hear more of Townes’ story - including her songwriting journey, the inspiration behind The Acrobat, and the songs that have connected most deeply with fans - the complete interview is available at Boomerocity.com, as well as on the Boomerocity YouTube channel and all major podcast platforms.
IN CONCERT • OPEN CHORD • APRIL 18TH
Why Most Outdoor Lighting Gets It Wrong
BY HEATH MYRICK, OWNER OF MYRICK LIGHTING & DESIGN
NOW THAT SPRING is here and homeowners are thinking about landscaping, patios, and curb appeal, outdoor lighting often enters the conversation. Unfortunately, much of what we see installed today misses the mark.
Outdoor lighting isn’t about brightness. It’s about balance.
The most common mistake is over-lighting. When every tree, corner, and walkway is flooded with light, the result is harsh and distracting. Architecture loses
- revealing the structure, proportion, and character of your home. From there, landscape elements are added selectively to create depth and dimension. Darkness is not the enemy; it is part of good design. Shadow gives contrast. Contrast gives drama.
Another frequent issue is relying on temporary or low-quality fixtures. Solar lights and big-box systems often fail within a season or two, leading to inconsistent results and frustration. A properly designed low-voltage system, installed with longterm performance in mind, can last decades
curb appeal, improves safety, and extends the enjoyment of outdoor spaces - without calling attention to the fixtures themselves. The best lighting systems are noticed not because they are bright, but because they feel sophisticated and natural.
Now that spring has arrived, this is the ideal time to evaluate your home’s exterior and consider how it looks after sunset.
Let the professionals at Myrick Lighting & Design prepare the perfect lighting plan to transform not just how your property appears, but how it feels. Call us to book
Heath Myrick, Owner
Whole Financial Picture?
BY ADAM KORNEGAY, ADAM@APCPLAN.COM
YOU’VE PROBABLY heard the story about the three blind men who were asked to examine and then describe an elephant. The first man, upon feeling the elephant’s leg, said, “An elephant is very similar to a strong tree.” The second felt the elephant’s side and declared, “Why, an elephant is much like a large wall.” The third man grasped the elephant’s long trunk and stated, “This creature is clearly related to a great snake.” While you can certainly understand their reasoning, a step back with clear eyes reveals the truth.
When it comes to your finances, are you sure you are seeing the whole picture? Just as you can’t separate an elephant from its trunk, your financial plan should integrate all aspects of your life. Financial decisions shouldn’t be made in isolation.
Let’s take a seemingly straightforward decision: whether or not to
sell an investment that you feel is “underperforming.” (How “underperformance” is defined is a topic for another day.) That choice shouldn’t rest solely on numbers.
• Consider the tax implications of selling. Will it be a long-term capital gain or a short-term capital gain? Will those gains affect your ability to qualify for various tax credits and deductions such as the new enhanced deduction for seniors? Or does it even create taxable income at all because of the type of account it is in?
• Consider the effect on your overall investment allocation and your ability to achieve your future goals. Could the sale throw your portfolio out of balance? How will you reinvest the proceeds (if at all)?
• Consider how it could impact your legacy plans. Some investments receive a “step-up in basis” upon the owner’s death. Might it be better to hold on and pass it to your heirs? You could even donate it to a favorite charity.
Speaking of elephants, scientists have discovered that elephants will work together to solve common problems such as obtaining food or digging a well for water. If you’re having trouble seeing your whole financial picture, some teamwork with a CFP® professional could help facilitate coordinated planning.
-Outdoor Furniture -
As outdoor living continues to evolve, the line between interior and exterior spaces has never been more beautifully blurred. At Shae Design Studio, we believe your outdoor space should feel just as curated, comfortable, and intentional as the interior of your home.
We proudly feature Summer Classics outdoor furniture, known for its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless design, and durability. These pieces are built to withstand the elements while maintaining a refined, high-end aesthetic. From teak and aluminum frames to woven resin and upholstered seating, every collection offers versatility without compromising quality.
What truly sets a professionally designed outdoor space apart is the level of customization. Through our access to custom outdoor fabrics, we are able to tailor each piece to your vision—whether that’s soft, neutral tones for a serene retreat or bold, layered patterns that make a statement. We carefully select fabrics that are not only visually stunning but also engineered for performance—fade-resistant, easy to clean, and made to last season after season.
Elevated Outdoor Living: Designed with Intention Shae Design Studio -
More Than a Place to Park Your Car
AT GARAGEEXPERTS
of
Knoxville, we believe your garage should be more than just a place to park your car or store clutter. It should be a clean, organized, and durable extension of your home. That’s why we specialize in transforming ordinary garages into functional spaces designed to look better, work harder, and stand the test of time.
Our proprietary Garage FX ® epoxy and polyaspartic flooring system is at the core of what we do. Unlike basic floor coatings that can
works for homeowners. That is why we offer custom cabinetry and smart storage solutions built specifically for garage environments. Whether you need storage for tools, sports equipment, seasonal decorations, or hobby supplies, we help design a system that keeps everything organized
with a limited lifetime warranty, giving homeowners confidence that their investment is built to last.
Custom Organization and Value Every garage we transform is customized to meet the needs of the homeowner. We take the time to understand how each customer uses their space and design a solution that fits their lifestyle. The result is a garage that feels cleaner, more organized, and easier to use every day.
At GarageExperts of Knoxville, our goal is simple:
Browse & Be Inspired
APRIL IS FINALLY here, and with it comes that itch we all get to shake off winter by freshening things up. If you’ve been craving a little inspiration - or just an excuse to get out and enjoy yourselfLouisville Mercantile is calling your name.
Tucked just a little off the beaten path (only 15 minutes from Kingston Pike at Pellissippi Pkwy), this locally owned shop has become a favorite “happy place” for many, and one visit is all it takes to understand why. “We want people to feel something the moment they walk through the door,” said owner Sylvia Davis. “Louisville Mercantile is meant to be a place where you can slow down, get inspired, and leave feeling better than when you arrived.” It’s a feeling the community clearly shares - Louisville Mercantile was recently nominated for “Small Business of the Year” in the Best of Blount Awards.
One of the things that makes Louisville Mercantile unique is their incorporation of carefully curated home décor and furniture consignment offerings. Every corner is thoughtfully pulled together with a mix of brand-new favorites and one-of-a-kind finds, which means no two visits ever feel the same. You’ll find a rotating selection of quality furniture pieces with character, stories, and plenty of life left in them - that also make beautifully useful displays! Since the selection is always changing, browsing becomes part of the fun. And if you have a quality piece you’re ready to pass along, the team is always happy to chat.
This April, step inside, take a look around, and see for yourself why Louisville Mercantile has become a favorite stop for so many. Stay up to date on events, workshops, new arrivals, and shop tours (plus their weekly Five Faves!) by following Louisville Mercantile on Facebook and Instagram.
INRECENT MONTHS, I entered an unanticipated life transition and find myself “in between” the work and life I had and the one that’s yet to come. Insightful writers have referred to these life transitions as liminal space, from the Latin word for a door threshold, Limin. You are beyond the known qualities of the past but have not yet stepped into the uncertain future.
A friend of mine described it as being like a trapeze artist who’s leapt into the air, leaving the safety of the bar behind, but hasn’t yet been grabbed by the “catcher” on the next bar. It’s an unnerving feeling that drives many into a panicked grasping for control. The need to control life's uncertainties is at the root of most human problems and, unfortunately, it’s when many people are at their worst.
I have some favorite catchphrases I apply to myself and share when family, friends, or clients find themselves in a liminal panic. In no particular order, they are: “Never run back into a burning building from which you’ve already escaped;” “Don’t settle for less than what you really want;” “There’s no such thing as a ‘free range chicken;’” “All
BY DR. JIM BAILEY, DRJIM@DRJIMBAILEY.COM
successful people take action steps;” and “You need a 10,000-foot perspective.”
“Never run back into a burning building from which you’ve already escaped” is a phrase I use when a friend or client is about to repeat a mistake from their work or life story. Most often it’s the tendency to apply for the kinds of jobs or companies that previously made them miserable, but it can just as easily be applied to entering a relationship with someone too similar to your ex or someone who broke your heart. Whether it’s due to selective amnesia, naively thinking things will somehow be different this time, or even some pathology that drives you to prove the last time was a fluke, we humans occasionally run back into situations that have caused us pain.
“Don’t settle for less than what you really want” is something I learned from my father when I was intent on buying a car using my own money. Initially he reminded me that the true cost of a car also included operating expenses (fuel, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums), but he also knew the realities of buyer’s remorse and heartbreak of “if only.” Applying this lesson to work and life is invaluable: You are always better
served by striving for greatness than when you settle for less. Working toward higher goals, even when you fail to attain them, results in personal growth, whereas settling for less will only diminish you.
“There’s no such thing as a ‘free range chicken’” is a life lesson I got while helping my grandfather on his farm as a child and learned that food animals (cows, chickens, pigs) aren’t very bright. Yes, animals may be happier and healthier when they have larger spaces in which to wander, but a total absence of boundaries leads to dead cows, chickens, and pigs as they wander into roadways, off of cliffs, and into the mouths of predators. The human parallel is that we have happier, more productive lives when we have boundaries and guardrails (life habits, routines, and patterns) to guide our daily lives. It’s something like the pop-up guardrails you find at some bowling alleys; they don’t guarantee you’ll get a strike, but they do ensure your ball stays out of the gutter.
“Successful people take consistent action steps” is a rule I learned to protect myself from a tendency to become depressed when life doesn’t move the direction I want. It’s my mash-up of things I learned from authors Andy Stanley ( The Principle of the Path) and Donald Miller (too many books to list here), who helped me understand that reaching life goals isn’t a matter of making big breakthroughs or social-media-worthy highlights but the steady and consistent application of values-driven actions that gradually move us toward important things.
“You need a 10,000-foot perspective” is something I’ve frequently said to clients and friends, but it came from recognizing my own limitations. There are some major pitfalls that come with being human: pride, the illusion of omniscience, and the need for control. Most people want to be competent (and sometimes fear being viewed as incompetent), but we are limited beings with each person having certain God-given strengths and their related limitations - no one does all things well. Humility teaches us to acknowledge our limits then ask for other perspectives, rely on strengths we don’t possess (but someone else does), and to trust in wisdom that exceeds our own.
This isn’t an exhaustive list (it’s not even a full list of the phrases I’ve learned and used to help my friends and family), but it contains some of the better ideas I’ve found for making your way through the in-between times of life. Sooner or later we each find ourselves beyond the safety of what we’ve known and not yet in the grasp of the one who holds our future. Knowing how to live in the meantime is a key to making the most of
space.
A New Roof Without the Cost, Time, or Mess
FORMANY Knoxville homeowners, roofing decisions have become increasingly difficult. Replacement costs continue to rise, insurance deductibles are higher, and East Tennessee’s climate - heat, UV exposure, wind, and seasonal storms - places constant stress on residential roofing systems. As a result, many roofs are replaced not because they have structurally failed, but because homeowners assume replacement is the only option.
In many cases, it isn’t.
Why Roofs Actually Deteriorate
Most residential roofs age from the surface downward. Over time, sun exposure dries out materials, protective granules wear away, and small cracks begin to form. Once the surface protection weakens, moisture intrusion becomes more likely, accelerating wear and eventually leading to leaks.
In many homes, the underlying roof structure remains sound. The issue is not structural failure - it’s that the roof’s protective surface has reached the end of its effective life. This is the stage where roof resurfacing becomes a practical solution.
How Liqua-Roof Resurfaces Roof Performance
Liqua-Roof is a roof resurfacing system designed for roofs that are still structurally sound. Unlike basic treatments that aim only to rehydrate aging materials, Liqua-Roof applies a patented system that forms a new, seamless, fully adhered waterproof membrane over the existing roof surface.
Protective granules are then embedded back into the system, restoring durability, UV resistance, and surface strength. Homeowners may also choose to add color, giving the roof a refreshed, uniform appearance while maintaining performance.
The system is backed by a 15-year written warranty, providing long-term confidence and protection. The result is a reinforced roofing system engineered to extend service life and improve weather resistance - often at a significantly lower cost than full replacement.
A Less Costly Roofing Alternative
Traditional roof replacement can be expensive, time consuming, and invasive. Liqua-Roof applications involve no tear-off, no dumpsters, and significantly reduced disruption. After a professional inspection and surface preparation, the system is applied directly to the roof, allowing for faster completion and a cleaner jobsite.
In Knoxville, Liqua-Roof projects are evaluated and overseen locally by experienced owner-operators with backgrounds in residential construction and exterior systems. Each roof is assessed based on its actual condition rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation, helping homeowners make informed and practical decisions.
When Resurfacing Makes Sense
Roof resurfacing is not appropriate for every roof. Structures with severe damage or advanced failure may still require replacement, which is why every project begins with a thorough evaluation and clear guidance on the best path forward.
Liqua-Roof is now available in the Knoxville area, offering homeowners a smarter option between routine maintenance and full replacement. To learn more, visit LiquaRoof.com
Liqua-Roof Knoxville is locally operated by partners Alfonso, Kevin, and Marcelo.
Spring into Warm Weather with an All-Access Pantry
BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM
IT’S THE TIME of year for more sunshine, which means more family time! Memorial Day celebrations are on the way, along with summer break for the kids. Now is the perfect time to customize your kitchen’s form and function. With a little help from designed storage, your pantry can become a food and beverage hub that will serve you well into the season - and beyond!
Give Yourself More Elbow Room
Your pantry is the “command post” of the kitchen - make it easier to access with made-to-measure storage. Get the most out of every inch of a small pantry with roll-out drawers and shelving tailored to your supplies and lifestyle. For an even higher impact, remove the pantry door, trim, and unused wall space to create a culinary cache of cooking needs and supplies.
Pump Up Your Prep Space
With thoughtful design in your pantry, kitchen activities instantly become easier. Add a handy countertop for beverage making and recipe checking. Store pots and pans, cookie sheets, cookbooks, dry goods, and more using custom-measured shelves and cabinets, and install LED lighting to brighten sleepy mornings - or light the way to a midnight snack.
Elevate Your Kitchen Décor
With dozens of finishes, styles, and hardware choices available, your kitchen pantry can become a showpiece. Bring storage into focus using of-the-moment colors, or stick to a classic wood grain finish for timeless appeal. Make use of a tight space with convenient corner shelves, or hide your “aesthetically challenged” supplies using cabinet doors inset with beautiful architectural resin or back-painted glass.
Delight Your Entire Clan
Whether you need extra room for quick food prep, a hassle-free place to grab a snack, or a haven for wine and appetizers at the end of the day, your family will love the ease of a custom-designed pantry. Your local pros at Closets by McKenry will help you get started. Serving Knoxville for a decade, their expansive West Knoxville showroom is just a call, click, or visit away. Discover the magic of organized storage, and open up the delicious possibilities in your pantry today!
Closets by McKenry
201 Center Park Drive, #1070, Knoxville, TN 37922
865.249.6382 ClosetsByMcKenry.com
Pull-put drawer boxes make accessing lower shelves easy.
INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &
RAMBLIN’ JOE’S COFFEE
This seasonal, Wyoming-inspired Huckleberry Coffee features a beautifully balanced sweet-tart drink with huckleberry cold foam that captures the spirit of the mountain west. Try one today at Ramblin’ Joe’s Coffee, 108 South B Street in Lenoir City, 865.816.6355, RamblinJoesCoffee.com.
POPES AT MEADOW VIEW
The new Terraform Terrariums are the easiest, no-care way to bring nature to any indoor space. These self-contained ecosystems thrive without pruning, watering, or fertilizing, making them foolproof options for plant-lovers of all ages. Great for gifts, décor, offices, classrooms, dorm rooms, and more, they’re sure to spark joy wherever you put them. Available at Popes at Meadow View, 9885 US-11 in Lenoir City, 865-986-0157, PopesGardenCenter.com.
MAKER EXCHANGE
Shop the Grid Wall at Maker Exchange featuring locally-made artwork from 150+ makers. New 6"x6" pieces by Bryan Wilkerson, Lauren Adams, Ryan Blair, Amber Purdy, and Lydia May are available now. Stop by at 710 Clinch Avenue in downtown Knoxville between the Marriott and Tennessean Hotels, 865.637.4561, or online at MakerExchangeKnox.com.
LOUISVILLE MERCANTILE
These charming, one-of-a-kind watercolor paintings by Mark Schaefer (yes, that Mark Schaefer - globally-recognized keynote speaker, educator, business consultant, author, and ARTIST), a Knoxville native, who paints lovely regional birds, landscapes, and more. Many delightful original Schaefer paintings that complement any décor are available at Louisville Mercantile, 2801 Topside Road in Louisville, 865.724.3195, LouisvilleMercantile.com.
HARB'S CARPETING & ORIENTAL RUGS
For almost 100 years, Harb’s has offered some of the most beautiful artisan handmade rugs from around the world, four large showrooms under one roof - a downtown treat to see! With the largest inventory of beautiful area rugs in East Tennessee, including modern, contemporary, and traditional, available in all price ranges. Harb’s Carpeting & Oriental Rugs, 608 N Broadway in Knoxville, 865.252.7562, HarbsRugs.com.
PROVISIONS OUTFITTERS & BOUTIQUE
The hat that gives back is now available! Each hat you buy helps feed a local family in need; 10% of their profit is given to our state’s local food banks. Stop by and check out their new store located at 11110 Kingston Pike, Suite 150 in Farragut (by Sam & Andy’s West), 865.288.0939.
Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Book Your Summer Family Vacation
BY ANNETTE MOREJON, OWNER OF TRAVELER’S CAFFE
PARENTS, I GET IT - summer can feel like a million miles away when you’re juggling school schedules, work, and daily chaos. But here’s a little secret: Spring is actually the perfect time to start planning your summer getaway. Booking now means better prices, more choices, and less stress when the sunny season finally arrives.
Grab the Best Options
Before They’re Gone
Summer is everyone’s favorite travel season, which means flights, hotels, and family-friendly resorts fill up fast. By planning in spring, you can snag the flights
you actually want, connecting rooms that fit your family, and those resorts with the water slides - or beach access - that your kids will rave about. You’ll also be able to reserve experiences that make your vacation extra special, from cooking classes in Europe to character dining at Disney, all while catching early-bird deals that save you money and stress.
More Flexibility, Less Worry
Booking early isn’t just about snagging the good stuff - it’s about giving yourself breathing room. You’ll have time to plan thoughtfully, pick the right excursions, coordinate transportation, and make sure passports or visas
are ready. With a little springtime planning, your summer vacation won’t just happen - it will feel seamless, enjoyable, and actually fun for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Destinations
That Everyone Will Love
Domestic Favorites:
• National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Acadia
Let’s be real - planning a family vacation can feel overwhelming. That’s why I help families like yours take the stress out of summer travel. From picking the perfect destination and accommodations to arranging unique experiences and handling all the logistics, my goal is simple: You focus on making memories while I take care of the rest. With a little planning now, your summer adventure will be smooth, unforgettable, and full of smiles (for kids and parents alike!).
“Let’s make your family’s dream vacation a reality - stress-free, thoughtfully planned, and full of magical memories.”
Traveler’s
865.507.3227
TravelersCaffe.com
Fixing What Homeowners Live With Every Day
MOST KITCHENS LOOK fine at a glance. Then you try to cook.
Drawers jam. Cabinets hide more than they reveal. Pantries turn into daily scavenger hunts. You waste time, lose patience, and somehow the one thing you need is always buried behind something you don’t.
Homeowners invest time and money into their kitchens yet still end up fighting them every morning and every night. Whether it’s outdated cabinets, wasted space, or daily clutter, something just isn’t working.
Jason Smith has seen this pattern for years.
Jason Smith
Growing up working in his family’s home-building business and later serving as a home appliance product manager, Jason studied kitchens from both sides - how they’re built and how families actually use them. One truth kept surfacing: Many kitchens simply don’t function the way real life demands.
So he brought Art of Drawers to East Tennessee with one clear mission: Stop making people adapt to their kitchens. Start making kitchens adapt to people.
Art of Drawers specializes in custom drawer systems, pantry solutions, and cabinet refacing. Drawers are built from solid wood, professionally installed, and backed by a lifetime warranty and the 100% Elation Guarantee. For homeowners who like their layout but not their cabinets, refacing delivers a dramatic transformation without the cost, mess, or disruption
“I didn’t realize how much frustration I was living with until it was gone.”
of a full remodel.
What truly separates Art of Drawers is the process. Every in-home consultation starts with listening. How do you cook? How do you shop? What frustrates you every single day? Solutions are designed around real behavior, not trends or templates, because organization isn’t about looking nice - it’s about living easier.
One recent homeowner put it simply: “I didn’t realize how much frustration I was living with until it was gone. I unload groceries once now instead of reshuffling everything. The drawers work for us, and the kitchen finally feels calm.”
As founder and CEO Allan Young explains, “Jason represents exactly why we built Art of Drawers. He understands how homeowners actually live, he cares deeply about quality, and he chose this business to make a real difference. East Tennessee families are in very good hands.”
Today, Art of Drawers of East Tennessee is building a local team dedicated to helping homeowners stop fighting their kitchens and start enjoying them. If your kitchen could work better - in how it looks, how it functions, or how it feels day to day - you don’t have to live with it. Schedule your complimentary design consultation and see how much better life feels when your kitchen finally works for you.
Art of Drawers
865.895.5455 ArtofDrawers.com
HARDIN VALLEY
WINTER MARKET
Event Center Pavilion 2620 Willow Point Way, 37931 Saturday, April 11 10 am - 1 pm
OPENS MAY 5
HARDIN VALLEY MARKET Event Center Pavilion 2620 Willow Point Way, 37931 Tuesdays 4 pm - 6 pm
OPENS APRIL 18
DIXIE LEE MARKET Renaissance Center 12740 Kingston Pike, 37934 Saturdays 9 am - Noon
EBENEZER ROAD
Ebenezer United Methodist Church 1001 Ebenezer Road, 37923 Tuesdays 3 pm - 6 pm
HISTORIC OAK RIDGE Jackson Square 209 Jackson Square, 37830 Saturdays 8 am - Noon
OPENS APRIL 23
NEW HARVEST PARK 4775 New Harvest Lane, 37918 Thursdays 3 pm - 6 pm
OPENS MAY 2
MARKET SQUARE DOWNTOWN Wednesdays 10 am - 1 pm Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm
Farragut’s Campbell Station Inn • Circa 1787
BY KRISTI VINING, FARRAGUT MUSEUM HISTORIC RESOURCES COORDINATOR
THE HISTORIC Campbell Station Inn is one of Farragut’s most significant landmarks, representing more than two centuries of local history. Once a stagecoach station, hospital, and private residence, the Inn has been carefully restored by the Town of Farragut and will now serve as headquarters for the Visit Farragut staff with a history room, gift shop, and community event space.
History tells us that as early as 1785, the State of Franklin (today Tennessee) entered into an agreement, known as the Dumplin Creek Treaty, with the Cherokee Indians. This treaty opened the land along the French Broad and Holston rivers to a rush of settlers.
The current Campbell Station-Farragut community, on the western edge of Knox County, had its beginnings in the late 1700s. Arriving on March 7, 1787, the Campbell clan, along with others, became the first permanent settlers of European descent to call this area home. These early settlers struggled against a hostile environment to carve a settlement out of primeval wilderness that would ultimately be called the Town of Farragut.
Upon arriving, Col. David Campbell built a cabin and later a stockade fort to protect against attack by the native peoples who resented the presence of their new neighbors. Although the fort was never actually attacked by American Indians, it had some close calls.
Shortly after settling the area, Campbell built a stagecoach station known as Campbell’s Station. The original “Block House,” as it was called, was built on the northwest corner of present-day Kingston Pike and Campbell Station Road. As the area grew with expansion and migration to the western frontier, Campbell built another structure on the site in 1810.
Known today as the Campbell S tation Inn, the home served as David Campbell’s residence until 1824 when the property was purchased by Samuel Martin. The property was later purchased by Matthew Russell and remained in the Russell family for six generations. The property is sometimes referred to as the Avery-Russell house.
The Inn served as a favorite stop ping
place for families, hunters, and stock drivers passing through Knoxville. Recognized as one of the earliest inns in Tennessee, it was host to such notables as President Andrew Jackson, Louis Phillippe (who later became King of France), famed British geologist G. W. Featherstone, and the French botanist Andre Michaux.
The house also played an important role in the Civil War battle known as the Battle of Campbell Station, which was fought in the area on November 16, 1863. During the battle, the house sheltered both Union and Confederate wounded. Faint blood stains remain on the old pine floors.
Learn more about the history of the area by visiting the Farragut Museum, located
at 11408 Municipal Center Drive in the Farragut Town Hall building. The museum is open 11 am to 2 pm Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is free. Volunteers serve as docents and give tours of the museum and answer questions. Special events at the Farragut Museum are posted to @Farragut Museum on Instagram and Facebook.
EMPOWERING YOUNG ADULTS
BY KAREN COPPOCK
REMEMBER
when
you got your first apartment? For many people, that happened in college or just out of school. Your family might have helped you move your twin bed from home, and Grandma contributed a couch from her living room. Other family and friends may have helped provide dishes, a table, household goods, and pantry supplies and helped you move in, perhaps with the incentive of a pizza dinner. But what if you had been in foster care or had been homeless?
a young man who’s aging out of foster care.’” After deciding to donate an unused love seat, she messaged to ask if he needed anything else. “And she said, ‘He needs everything. He literally has nothing.’” Denham and her husband donated more household items, and she posted for help on Facebook. Friends donated items and gift cards, and they were able to completely furnish his apartment within two days!
After delivering the items, his Compassion
young former foster child. Denham agreed and asked, “Who normally provides them with furniture and housewares?” And she said, ‘Nobody. They’re on their own.’” That eye-opening experience led her to start the 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2023.
Tracy Rose Denham, founder of Knoxville nonprofit First Foundations, Inc. (FF), recently learned more about the challenges facing young adults in those situationsand it started as a response to a Facebook Knoxville freecycle group post. “Someone posted, ‘I’m looking for a small love seat for
Since then, FF has helped more than 60 young adults. Its mission is to help empower young adults who are transitioning from foster care or homelessness to break the poverty cycle and realize their full potential as valued members of society. Local social services organizations like Compassion Coalition or Knoxville CAC’s Youth WINS find housing for the clients. Those case workers then refer prospective clients to FF, and the FF intake coordinator assesses each client’s needs. FF outfits their apartment with basic necessities (see sidebar) and coordinates with the case worker and client to help them move in.
Denham said they help clients move on the second Saturday morning of each month. She and FF volunteers meet at
Volunteers from the Central High School wrestling team.
Photos courtesy of First Foundations
“Too often, fear shapes the way people think about homelessness. But the truth is that young adults without housing are far more vulnerable than they are threatening. In fact, studies show people experiencing homelessness are 10 times more likely to be victims of violence than the general population. Our 18-24 year olds deserve safety, stability, and dignity - not stigma.”
- Tracy Rose Denham
EACH CLIENT RECEIVES
• A bed
• A love seat
• New bed and bathroom linens; new or lightly used household items like dishes, utensils, cookware, as needed
• A grocery store gift card; they can request a food basket from local food pantries if they run out of food
• Pantry staples bag - items like salt, pepper, catsup, cooking oil, paper goods like toilet paper and paper towels, plastic baggies, meal prep containers, and other basics
• First aid kit and basic OTC medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen
• Cleaning basket - laundry and dish detergent and other cleaning supplies
the organization’s storage unit to retrieve donated and purchased items, and then they help the clients move into their new rentals that morning. FF’s website and Facebook page have more information about items that are needed. Although
they appreciate interest and donations, Denham asked that donors please consider the condition of the items. “Would you want your child to have this in their place now? We restore dignity here. We don’t believe in the fallacy of something’s better than nothing. We want to give them the best that we can.”
Although FF originally started as a furniture/household goods ministry, it has since expanded to provide more comprehensive support. FF provides classes to help mentor clients with “adulting” skills like budgeting and time management. Denham and other volunteers help clients model or work through interpersonal or relational skills like interviewing for a job or successfully resolving disagreements with roommates or coworkers. FF also helps connect clients to employment opportunities and training, as well as transportation to work when needed.
First Foundations’ motto of “fostering hope, furnishing dreams” inspires their success in helping young adults from challenging circumstances launch into full, successful lives. Per their website, more than 96% of their clients maintain permanent housing, have a 100% connection to community resources, and a 74% increase in positive relationships. For more information on how to help, please visit FirstFoundationsInc.org.
HOW TO HELP
• Financial donations
• Annual fundraisers like their Sleep Out campaign
• Restaurant or grocery store gift cards - if you have any that you know you won’t use, FF passes them along to clients
• Kroger Plus card - FF can be designated as your preferred charity
• KARM donations - if FF is listed as the designated charity, their clients can receive KARM gift cards
• Donations of love seats and household goods - please contact FF via their website or Facebook page to coordinate
• Volunteer - for more information visit FirstFoundationsInc.org
First Foundations young adult testimonial at RiverView Family Farm fundraiser.
Tracy with some of First Foundations’ young adults.
Easier Access and Organization for Your Home
Helping Your Home Work Better for You
OVERTIME, your lifestyle, needs, and daily routines change. Job responsibilities shift, families grow and shrink, and habits emerge and fade. Starting with your kitchen, reassess what works for you today rather than 20 years ago. Evaluate your storage with fresh eyes - there are no rules, only possibilities!
Different Lifestyle
If your household is once again “just the two of us,” you may be enjoying a much different way of life. Share time exploring new recipes, the latest appliances, and exciting culinary experiences with the benefit of attractive and sturdy soft-close roll-out shelving and organizers. There’s a roll-out for nearly every need, including a utensil bin for your spatulas, whisks, and serving spoons, a magnetic knife organizer complete with cutting board, and even an appliance cabinet that comes with its own handy, retractable platform.
Different Needs
Do you find yourself straining to see, reach, and retrieve items in the far corners of your upper and lower cabinets? Stop struggling and add safety and convenience to your kitchen with custom storage solutions. Upper wall cabinet pull-outs offer easy-to-view storage racks that glide open and closed. Heavy pots, pans, and skillets can be managed with a soft-close pot organizer pull-outwith lids at the ready on their own convenient shelf. And a variety of corner cabinet styles gently rotate with the slightest touch, giving you access to every inch of space with ease.
Different Routines
Match the luxury of more free time with features that fit relaxing lifestyles. Leisurely mornings will go even smoother with a sectioned drawer to hold every flavor of K-Cup®. A drawer that separates sports bottles, thermoses, lids, and straws keeps everything organized for those visits from your grandkids. Custom wine racks with stemware slots provide access to your favorite varietal in time to catch that beautiful sunset. And plates can be taken off those high shelves and stored in a practical pegged drawer, close at hand for a midnight snack.
Updating is Easy with Shelf Help
As you evaluate your storage needs, are there areas beyond the kitchen that could use a refresh? It may be time to install gliding roll-out shelves and organizers for instant access to laundry or pantry supplies, or to outfit your primary bath with roll-out organizers for brushes, blow dryers, and other hairstyling tools, or to update your built-in cabinets in the den with convenient gilding drawers to make albums, DVDs, and CDs easy to see and reach.
Maybe all of the above?
The Shelf Help team is ready to walk you through every step of your home storage updates. We partner with our customers to re-think, re-tool, and revitalize their lives using creative and affordable storage solutions. We’re not a franchise but a locally owned and run small business based in Knoxville. This allows us to keep our prices up to 50% or more lower than that of national franchises.
Sundays at My Grandmother’s
BY STEPHANIE FOLEY, SMOKY MOUNTAIN SCHOOL OF COOKING
GROWING
UP in the Appalachian region of Kentucky, Sunday afternoons always meant one thing in my grandmother’s kitchen: Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding. It was the kind of dessert that brought everyone to the table without being called twice. Aunts, uncles, cousins - all gathered close, spoons in hand, waiting for that warm dish to come straight from the oven. Laughter filled the room as the meringue rose tall and golden, and no one waited long before diving into that first
Old-Fashioned Banana
Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Ingredients:
Pudding
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 cups milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
3-4 bananas, sliced Vanilla wafers
Instructions:
To Make the Pudding
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
In a medium saucepan, whisk together flour, sugar, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly stir in 1/4 cup of the hot pudding mixture to temper the eggs. Mix well, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan. Continue cooking and stirring for about 3 more minutes, until thickened and smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a small baking dish, layer sliced bananas and vanilla wafers. Pour half of the pudding over the layers. Add another layer of bananas and wafers, then top with the remaining pudding. If serving without meringue, top with crushed vanilla wafers. Otherwise, proceed with meringue.
To Make the Meringue
In a small bowl, mix sugar and cornstarch together.
In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating. Slowly add the sugar-cornstarch mixture, then the vanilla, beating until stiff peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the hot pudding, making sure it touches all edges to seal.
Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
Serve warm, straight from the oven, with generous scoops that capture all the layers - creamy pudding, tender bananas, soft wafers, and golden meringue. This dessert is best enjoyed immediately, around a full table, with plenty of spoons and even more laughter. If you have leftovers , cover and refrigerate to enjoy later.
The Smoky Mountain School of Cooking & Gourmet Treats is owned and operated by Stephanie and Shawn Foley. They teach the art of Appalachian-inspired cooking in public and private hands-on cooking events as well as offer personal chef services. Their store at 1004 Parkway, Suite 301 in Gatlinburg offers signature jams, salsas, sauces, honeys, and a variety of sweet treats including artisan fudge in many wonderful flavors. Visit SmokyMountainSchoolofCooking.com to shop online and/or sign up for classes.
HOWARD JONES
Brings Synth-Pop Legacy to Knoxville with
ROD STEWART TOUR STOP
WBY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM
HEN BRITISH synth-pop pioneer Howard Jones steps onto the stage at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center on April 15, the Knoxville audience will be witnessing a musician whose career spans more than four decades of innovation, hit songs, and electrifying live performances. Jones will open for rock legend Rod Stewart on the Knoxville stop of the tour, a pairing that feels both nostalgic and fresh. For Jones, the opportunity is especially meaningful because the two artists have become friends in recent years.
“I’ve got to know Rod recently… we’re friends of friends, and we hang out and have dinners,” Jones said during a recent interview. “I had a birthday recently, and Rod was there with his wife, Penny. It’s really nice to be doing something with somebody you can call a friend.”
The Knoxville show is one of a handful of dates Jones is performing with Stewart, and fans can expect an energetic set packed with the songs that made Jones a defining voice of 1980s pop. “I’ll be 35, 40 minutes,” he explained. “That’s been the challenge for me… it will be wall-to-wall hits.” For audiences that grew up with songs like “New Song,” “Things Can Only Get Better,” and “No One Is to Blame,” the Knoxville performance promises a quick-hitting celebration of Jones’ enduring catalog.
While Jones continues touring and creating new music, he has also been looking back at the early days of his career with the release of Live at the Marquee 1983, a newly remixed live album capturing a pivotal moment just as his career was taking off. The recording captures Jones during the period when he was performing as a one-man band, programming sequences between songs and interacting closely with audiences as his music began climbing the charts.
“It was 1983, just before I did my first sort of big Top of the Pops show,” Jones recalled. “It was like time travel… remembering how it all started off.”
What makes the album especially fascinating is that many of the songs appear in their raw, early forms before being fully developed in the studio. “The songs had not been recorded yet, so they were in their raw state… before we actually recorded the album,” Jones explained. For fans, the album offers a rare glimpse into the creative spark that ignited Jones’ rise during the early days of synth-driven pop music.
Despite the long career and numerous accolades, Jones says the excitement of performing live has never faded. “Live performance to me is the most thrilling thing you can do as a musician,” he said. “To interact with an audience, and every night it’s going to be different… I don’t think you can get a bigger thrill really as an artist than
playing in front of people who know your work and know the songs and are singing along with you.”
That connection with audiences has been a constant throughout Jones’ career, beginning with those early one-man shows where he programmed sequences onstage and fans learned to recognize songs before they started. “The audience would recognize what song was coming up by the programming I was doing,” he recalled with a laugh. Today, while Jones performs with a full band and modern technology, that same spirit of musical interaction remains central to his concerts.
For the Knoxville show, Jones is focused on delivering a concise but powerful set designed to connect with both longtime fans and Rod Stewart’s audience. “I want to play them stuff that they recognize,” he said. That approach makes the April 15 performance an appealing opportunity for music lovers across generations - fans who remember Jones’ chart dominance in the 1980s as well as those discovering his music for the first time.
Jones is also excited to watch Stewart perform each night. “I watched his show at Glastonbury last year,” he said. “He covers the whole career… all the hits.”
And while fans shouldn’t expect an official collaboration just yet, Jones hinted that the two musicians might find time for some informal musical moments backstage. “I’m hoping that backstage, there’s going to be a piano somewhere and we can do some jamming,” he said.
More than 40 years after his first breakthrough, Jones continues to embrace both the past and the future of his music. Whether revisiting archival recordings or stepping onto arena stages with rock royalty, the British hitmaker remains driven by the same passion that launched his career. When he arrives in Knoxville, audiences will get to experience that energy firsthand - one synth-pop classic at a time. For fans of great songwriting, iconic 1980s sounds, and timeless live performance, it promises to be a memorable night.
The full interview with Howard Jones is available on Boomerocity.com, its YouTube channel, and on all podcast platforms.
Launched in 2009, Randy’s Boomerocity The Fan Experience has more than 500 positive, sincere, one-on-one interview conversations that show fans the true heart of the Baby Boomer generation of musicians, entertainers, and their associates, as well as today’s icons, influencers, and up-andcomers in music.
Earl’s Knoxville Elevated Bar Classics on the River
BY KELLY JO GROSSER LARSEN
THERE IS ANOTHER new restaurant in town, and I am excited to tell you about it! Earl’s Knoxville is located across the river from downtown on Waterfront Drive, right off Suttree Landing Park. They have indoor and outdoor seating with great river views, and I absolutely love the patio. It’s the perfect spot to have a casual lunch or dinner with friends or catch up on emails while enjoying lunch on the patio this spring.
They have a wide selection of craft beer, craft cocktails, and coffee drinks. You can grab a cold one and stay awhile or pick up an iced coffee before you take a stroll along the river. It’s the best of both worlds.
servers that make sure you have everything you need, but it’s pretty convenient to order from your phone as well.
Let’s talk about the food options: You can choose between handhelds like burgers,
chicken tenders with every sauce they offer - jalapeño ranch, Mississippi comeback, honey mustard, and blue cheese - because why not?! The sauces are made in-house and they’re delicious. The star of the show would be the French fries. You can get queso to dip your fries in, or you can order truffle fries… neither are a bad option. Maybe order both! That’s what I did and had no regrets.
One thing that is different about Earl’s Knoxville is they have QR codes at every table for placing your order, so you don’t have to wait on a server to come by to order another drink or snack. They do have
chicken sandwiches, and wraps or crispy chicken tenders. These are not your standard issue chicken tenders either. They are hand-breaded and available in 7 wonderful flavors, from Traditional Buffalo to Garlic Romano and Spicy Cajun. They also have a great salad selection.
So far, I’ve had the Wagyu burger twice because it was that good. I’ve had the
Earl’s Knoxville is going to be the go-to spot this spring and summer, so don’t miss out! If you love chicken tenders, burgers, and fries, you’re going to love Earl’s Knoxville. Check them out and tell them Kelly’s Belly sent you! Cheers!
BIJOU THEATRE AT 2:30 PM
Lined with electroluminescent wire, Lightwire Theater brings the beloved story of The Ugly Duckling to the stage with a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance.
Dazzling Visuals, Choreography & Music
Part of the Penny4Arts initiative that gives every child in Knox and surrounding counties an opportunity to attend arts and culture events at the maximum cost of ONE PENNY when accompanied by a paying adult.
KnoxBijou.org
APRIL
THROUGHOUT THE MONTH
The Royale by the Clarence Brown Theatre Company at the Jenny Boyd Carousel Theatre (1714 Andy Holt Ave.) through the 12th. For show times and tickets visit ClarenceBrownTheatre.com.
I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music at the East Tennessee History Center through the 19th.
Dogwood Trails & Gardens through the 30th. For info visit DogwoodArts.com.
APRIL 7
Preschool Story Thyme at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11 am. Every Tuesday through October.
Knoxville Smokies vs. Rocket City Trash Pandas at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm. Also the 8th at 12:30 pm, 9th-11th at 7 pm, and 12th at 2 pm.
Nothin’ But Soul with Kirk Whalum and the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.
APRIL 8
Spring Wildflowers & Dogwood Walk at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 5:30 to 7 pm. Part of Dogwood Arts’ Hikes & Blooms.
The Breath of the Wild by the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 7 pm. Also the 9th.
APRIL 9
The History Parlor at the East Tennessee History Center at 10 am. Free and open to the public. For info visit EastTNHistory.org.
Dusk in the Dogwoods: A Garden Parlor Party at Mabry-Hazen House from 6 to 9 pm. For tickets and info visit MabryHazen.com/dusk. Rain date April 16th.
Semiquincentennial Celebration Lecture Series: Catawba Women & the American Revolution at Blount Mansion at 6 pm. Hardy at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7 pm.
The Travelin’ McCourys at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 10
East Tennessee Boat & Outdoor Show at the Expo Center through the 12th.
Felipe Esparza at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.
Kevin James at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm. Swan Lake by World Ballet Company at the Civic Auditorium at 7 pm.
Big Night Hike at Ijams Nature Center from 7:30 to 9 pm.
Soundscapes at the KMA with Andrea Lisa at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 11
Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk in Market Square from 8 am to 5 pm; awards at 7 pm.
62nd annual Talahi Plant Sale at Westminster Presbyterian Church from 9 am to 2 pm. Proceeds benefit local organizations. Knoxville Walk to Make Alzheimer’s a Memory at Catholic High School Stadium at 9 am. A benefit for Alzheimer’s Tennessee. For info or to register visit AlzTennessee.org.
Spring Plant Sale at UT Gardens from 9 am to 2 pm. Members preview on the 10th.
Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at the Sequoyah Branch from 10 am to 5 pm.
Spring Into Hope: A Mental Health Awareness Festival at Ijams Nature Center from 11 am to 3 pm. Register at Ijams.org.
Fore the Love of Animals at Topgolf in Farragut from 12 to 3 pm. A benefit for the Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley.
Vintage Base Ball: Knoxville Knoxvilles vs. Lightfoot Club of Chattanooga at Historic Ramsey House at 12 pm. Free!
Ali Siddiq at the Bijou Theatre at 4 & 7 pm.
Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon events in downtown Knoxville. Kids Run at 5:30 pm and 5K at 7 pm. Marathon, Relay & Half Marathon on April 12th at 7:30 am.
Singing Through the Rain by the WordPlayers at Sherrill Hills Retirement Resort at 6:30 pm. For tickets visit WordPlayers.org.
Beatles Revolution with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.
Whose Live Anyway? at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.
APRIL 12
Second Sunday Art Activity at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm. Hands-on art for K-6th grade.
Second Sunday Docent Tour at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 2 to 3 pm.
Imagination Series: The Ugly Duckling at the Bijou Theatre at 2:30 pm.
APRIL 13
Little History Lessons: Tennessee Plants for children ages 2-5 at the East Tennessee History Center at 10:30 am. For info visit EastTNHistory.org.
Little Feat at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 14
Museum Sprouts: Whose Hat is That? at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture at 9:30 am. For parents and caregivers with infants through four years old. Free! Registration required at McClungMuseum.utk.edu.
Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
Bob Dylan at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.
For Knoxville’s andMarketFarmers’dates locations,seepage 26
APRIL 15
Women and the Banjo by Kristina Gaddy at the East Tennessee History Center at 5:30 pm. Martin Sexton at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
Rod Stewart at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7:30 pm.
You Can’t Take It With You at the Clarence Brown Theatre at 7:30 pm. Shows through May 3rd. For show times and tickets visit ClarenceBrownTheatre.com.
APRIL 16
Midori Plays Beethoven with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 17th.
The Rush Tribute Project at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 17
Hats in Bloom Fundraiser Lunch at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10:30 am to 1 pm.
Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.
APRIL 18
Farragut Art & Photography Show at the Farragut Community Center. Also the 19th. Truck Trek at Karns High School from 8 am to 1 pm. Climb aboard, honk the horns, and meet those who operate the equipment. A benefit for the Junior League of Knoxville.
World’s Fair Ultras: A Celebration of Human Potential at World’s Fair Park at 8 am. For info visit RunEastCoastAdventures.com.
Brick Blast at Middlebrook Pike UMC from 10 am to 5 pm. Free event with kid-friendly games and activities, scavenger hunt, and a free-build area with Lego.
Dogwood Arts Spring Featured Gardens from 10 am to 5 pm. Also the 19th. For locations visit DogwoodArts.com.
Knoxville Opera Rossini Festival: An International Street Fair in downtown Knoxville from 10 am to 10 pm. Also the 19th from 12 to 7 pm. Free admission. For info visit KnoxvilleOpera.org/rossini-festival.
One Knoxville Soccer Club vs. Charlotte Independence at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm. PBR at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7 pm.
Flatland Cavalry at the Civic Auditorium at 7:30 pm.
Penny & Sparrow at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.
The Temptations & The Four Tops at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.
APRIL 19
Artists on Location: A Plein Air Event through the 23rd. See page 8 for details.
Bird Banding at Ijams Nature Center from 8:30 to 10 am. Also the 26th and May 3rd.
THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE
11th annual Mayapple Marketplace at Ijams Nature Center from 10 am to 3 pm.
William Shatner Live on Stage with Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm.
Hunter Hayes at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 20
6th annual Volunteer Ministry Center Golf Tournament at Egwani Farms Golf Course. A benefit for the Volunteer Ministry Center. For info visit VMCinc.org/golf-tournament.
APRIL 21
Knoxville Smokies vs. Chattanooga Lookouts at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm. Also the 22nd at 12:30 pm, 23rd-25th at 7 pm, and 26th at 2 pm.
APRIL 22
Earth Day
Broadway at the Tennessee: The Outsiders at the Tennessee Theatre through the 26th
APRIL 23
Anne Wilson at the Civic Auditorium at 7 pm.
APRIL 24
Arbor Day
Fiber Fair at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend from 9 am to 4 pm. Also the 25th.
Sheep Shearing Days at the Museum of Appalachia from 9 am to 3 pm. Also May 1st.
Dogwood Arts Festival at World’s Fair Park through the 26th. Friday and Saturday 10 am to 7 pm, Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. For info visit DogwoodArts.com.
Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at the Farragut Branch from 10 am to 5 pm. Also the 25th.
Tree Fest + Arbor Day Celebration at Urban Wilderness from 2 to 8 pm.
Casey James “Me & My Guitar” Album Release Party at the Tellico Village Yacht Club. VIP party at 6 pm, show at 7:30 pm, meet & greet at 9 pm. A benefit for the Community Coalition Against Human Trafficking. For info visit OurJam.us.
Autism Acceptance Gala at Bridgewater Place at 7 pm. A benefit for Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville. For info or tickets visit BreakthroughKnoxville.org.
Knoxville Choral Society’s 75th Anniversary Celebration Concert at Central Bearden at 7:30 pm. Also the 25th at the Community Church at Tellico Village at 3 pm.
The Cunning Little Vixen by the UT Opera at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 25th at 2:30 & 7:30 pm and 26th at 2:30 pm.
APRIL 25
5th annual CASA Monroe Superhero 5K & Fun Walk at Memorial Park in Madisonville at 8:45 am. For info or to register visit CASAmonroe.org/superhero-5K.
5th annual Knox Xtreme Adventure Race at Baker Creek Preserve at Ijams Nature Center from 9 am to 5 pm.
Moving Day Knoxville: A Walk for Parkinson’s at Knoxville Christian School at 9 am. Register at MovingDayWalk.org.
Regency Tea Party at Historic Ramsey House from 11 am to 1 pm. For info or tickets visit RamseyHouse.org.
Rally for Rowan at Yee-Haw Brewery from 4 to 9 pm. A benefit for The Rowan Tree Foundation of East Tennessee. For info visit RallyForRowan.org.
Zoofari 2026: Vim and Venom at Zoo Knoxville at 5:30 pm.
The Magic of Rob Lake at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 27
Little History Lessons: Market Square for children ages 2-5 at the East Tennessee History Center at 10:30 am. For info visit EastTNHistory.org.
APRIL 28
Lake Street Dive at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm. Rock Orchestra by Candlelight at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.
APRIL 29
Marc Broussard at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
APRIL 30
Brandy Clark at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
MAY 1
Outlandish Adventure Festival at Ijams Nature Center. Also the 2nd. For info visit OutlandishAF.org.
Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at the Bearden Branch from 10 am to 5 pm. Also the 2nd.
Thaw Out Music Festival Knoxville at World’s Fair Park from 4 to 10 pm.
First Friday on Market Square, Gay Street, The Old City, and Downtown North beginning at 5 pm.
Teen Paint Night at the Farragut Community Center from 6 to 7:30 pm. Registration required at TownofFarragut.org.
Bon Jovi’s “Slippery When Wet” by The Black Jacket Symphony at the Civic Auditorium at 7:30 pm.
Nate Jackson at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 & 9:30 pm.
MAY 2
East Tennessee Great Strides at Victor Ashe Park from 8 am to 12 pm. Annual celebration that includes a short walk around the park in honor of the Cystic Fibrosis community.
US Road Running 5K, 10K, and half marathon at Holston River Park from 8 to 11:30 am.
Holleroo at Happy Holler from 10 am to 10 pm. Soap Box Derby with a concert to close out the event.
Knoxville Book Festival at the Convention Center from 10 am to 5 pm. Also the 3rd.
Knoxville Walk for Water at Zoo Knoxville from 10 am to 12 pm.
Spring Pollinator Walk at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11:30 am.
Wild Ones Smoky Mountains Chapter Plant Sale at Suttree Landing from 10 am to 2 pm.
Handyman Hal Comes To Town at the Tennessee Theatre at 3 pm.
Luke Combs at Neyland Stadium at 5:20 pm.
MAY 3
Biscuits & Bubbly honoring Jack Neely at the East Tennessee History Center from 10:30 am to 2 pm. For info visit EastTNHistory.org.
Knoshville: Jewish Food Festival at Arnstein Jewish Community Center from 11 am to 2 pm.
Retropolitan Craft Fair at The Mill & Mine from 11 am to 6 pm.
ArabFest in Market Square from 12 to 8 pm.
Vintage Base Ball: Knoxville Knoxvilles vs. Stones River Scouts at Historic Ramsey House at 1 pm. Free!
Knoxville Symphony Chamber Classics Series: Appalachian Spring at the Bijou Theatre at 2:30 pm.
KSO Youth Wind Ensemble Spring Concert at Hardin Valley Academy at 7 pm.
MAY 4
Mighty Musical Monday featuring House Organist Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ at the Tennessee Theatre at 12 pm. Concessions available for purchase or bring a lunch. Free!
MAY 5
Preschool Story Thyme at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11 am. Every Tuesday through October. Concerts on the Square: Jazz Tuesdays in Market Square from 7 to 9 pm.
Knoxville Smokies vs. Birmingham Barons at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm. Also the 6th-9th at 7 pm and 10th at 2 pm.
MAY 6
Youth Art Show at the Farragut Community Center from 6 to 8 pm.
MAY 7
Random Acts of Flowers’ Garden Party at Lakeshore Marble Hall from 5:30 to 8 pm. For info or tickets visit RandomActsofFlowers.org.
Knoxville Symphony Youth Choirs Spring Recital at Westminster Presbyterian Church at 7 pm.
All event dates and times subject to change. If you would like to receive the Events Calendar in your inbox every month, simply send a request to info@everythingknoxville.com.
You can also go to EverythingKnoxville.com to view the current month’s Events Calendar.
THE TENNESSEE THEATRE
has been entertaining untold millions of East Tennesseans since it first opened in 1928. Built as a motion picture palace with a shallow stage for simple live performances, movies were the main attraction for the first five decades. The opulence of the lobby and auditorium made the everyday theatergoer feel like royalty.
The Theatre’s popularity was tainted by being a whites-only theatre from its opening until 1963, when brave students from Knoxville College peacefully protested and brought about policy changes. Later, the Tennessee struggled financially when smaller, sleeker, and more economical movie theaters became commonplace. It was relegated to screening second-run films in 1972 and summarily closed in late 1977.
In 1981, after years of sporadic attempts at revived operations, the Tennessee’s future was set in motion when the building was purchased by radio broadcaster James Dick. His company ran the Theatre for about 15 years, and while it never made a profit, speculation about demolition was put to rest. In 1996, the Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation was formed, and Mr. Dick donated the Theatre to the nonprofit organization. The board and leadership then planned a renovation that would safeguard the Theatre’s preservation and provide opportunity for immense growth.
After years of planning and fundraising, and closing for 19 months of construction, the Tennessee Theatre reopened in January 2005 with fully restored public areas for patrons to enjoy and a rebuilt stagehouse and expanded backstage spaces to accommodate a wide variety of performing arts and entertainment. The calendar got busier, with more national activity adding to local performing arts groups, most notably touring Broadway in 2008.
The next decade brought increased frequency of (and attendance at) events, and the Theatre began experiencing detrimental impacts. Long lines at restrooms and concessions made intermissions unenjoyable for patrons. Local performing groups
612 BUILDING EXPANSION PROJECT
wished for additional spaces to serve their loyal audiences. Visiting Broadway musicians had nowhere to rehearse, and the Theatre’s education and outreach initiatives were hindered by lack of available time on the mainstage. The Theatre had reached capacity in every sense.
In 2018, Theatre leadership began exploring the possibility of purchasing property in a nearby building located at 612 S Gay Street. Studies revealed that the main and balcony levels of the Theatre aligned with two of the levels in the 612 building, and the two structures could be physically connected. Thanks to generous donors, the Theatre purchased the property in 2019 and began planning the project. Although the pandemic intervened and delayed the commencement of construction, work finally began in April 2024 and will be completed this spring.
The 612 building is historic in its own right. Four levels of the building, also known as the Mechanics Bank and Trust Building, were built in 1907-08, and two more levels were added in 1923. Decorative plaster work and a massive bank vault still dominate the ground floor. In addition, the 612 building was home to a variety of businesses and offices, including a hearing aid company, ticket office for Southern Railway, headquarters of the Knoxville Badminton Association, the local chapter of the National Committee for Music Appreciation, the British War Relief Office,
and TVA. Notably, the top floor of this building was the location of radio station WROL in the 1950s. More recently, the building housed a debt recovery company and attorneys’ offices.
All levels of the 612 building will now be utilized to enhance and expand the Tennessee Theatre’s programming, amenities, and mission-driven activity. The street level will become a separate reception area, with ornate plaster adorning the walls and the imposing bank vault door as a focal point. The smaller mezzanine will serve as a private lounge for generous supporters and its regular performing arts users. Level 2 will add sorely needed restrooms and more bar service for theater attendees. Level 3 will be dedicated to educational and outreach programming, such as masterclasses and workshops, and rehearsal space for resident or touring groups. Level 4 will serve as new administrative offices for Theatre staff, and Level 5 (acquired after the initial property purchase) will feature a full-service, technologically advanced recording studio, with the option to record onsite or to capture content from the Theatre’s main stage.
The expansion of the Tennessee Theatre with the 612 building not only preserves another beautiful historic structure from Knoxville’s past. The added amenities and services set the stage for a strong and vibrant second century of the Tennessee Theatre, serving East Tennessee and beyond and creating lifelong memories. Learn more about the project at TennesseeTheatre.com/612.
The Knox Heritage mission is to protect Knoxville’s unique character for future generations by preserving, restoring, and transforming historically significant structures and places. Established in 1974 as a nonprofit historic preservation organization, Knox Heritage is chartered by the state of Tennessee and governed by a board of directors.
Why Early Dementia Often Goes Undetected and What Families Should Watch For
BY JOEY PARKER, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, JPARKER@PARKERWELLNESS.COM
WHEN JENNIFER noticed that her mother had been more irritable and less empathetic during the holidays, she assumed that it was just stress related or she was “just having a rough time” since her husband had passed. But others had noticed that Jennifer’s mother was repeating questions that she had just asked and was losing her train of thought mid-conversation. Don’t we all have times when we can’t find the right word to use or forget to take that new medication in the morning? Jennifer brushed it off as insignificant, which is easy to do.
Jennifer’s experience is common. Early dementia often develops gradually, and the warning signs can be subtle. Because of this, families frequently dismiss the early changes as simple forgetfulness or “just getting older.”
While occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, certain patterns may signal a deeper problem.
One early sign is repeating questions or stories frequently, sometimes within the same conversation. Another common indicator is difficulty managing familiar tasks,
such as paying bills, following a recipe, or managing medications. People may also begin misplacing items in unusual placesfor example, putting keys in the refrigerator or leaving a wallet in a laundry basket.
Changes in navigation and spatial awareness can also appear early. Someone who once drove confidently around town may start getting lost in familiar areas or become anxious about driving.
Families may also notice changes in judgment or personality. A normally cautious person might make unusual financial decisions, become more withdrawn socially, or show unexpected irritability or confusion.
Unfortunately, early dementia is frequently overlooked during routine medical visits. Short office appointments often focus on immediate medical concerns, and subtle cognitive changes may not be obvious in a brief conversation. In many cases, individuals can temporarily compensate or “mask” their symptoms during a short clinic visit.
That is why a more comprehensive evaluation can be helpful when memory concerns arise. Allowing a professional to gather collateral information from family
April 25 • 8:45 am Memorial Park in downtown Madisonville
Fun, family-friendly event that advocates for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines! For more info or to register, visit CASAmonroe.org/superhero-5k.
members and even observing someone in their own home environment - where daily routines, medications, finances, and safety issues become clearer - can provide valuable insight into cognitive functioning.
Early evaluation matters. Some conditions that resemble dementia may actually be treatable, such as medication side effects, sleep problems, depression, or vitamin deficiencies. When dementia is present, identifying it early allows families to begin treatment, plan for the future, and implement strategies that can help maintain independence longer.
For families who notice persistent changes in memory, behavior, or problem-solving, it may be time to seek a professional cognitive assessment. Recognizing the signs early can make a meaningful difference for both individuals and the loved ones who care for them.
Joey Parker, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and owner of Parker Wellness, has more than 30 years of mental health experience, providing evaluations and treatment including inpatient and outpatient (including in-home services). He can be reached at 865-567-9517 or jparker@ parkerwellness.com.
62ND ANNUAL TALAHI PLANT SALE
Saturday, April 11 • 9 am - 2 pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church 6500 S Northshore Drive
THE TALAHI Plant Sale, presented by the Knoxville Garden Club and Garden Study Club, boasts a vibrant assortment of native plants, herbs, shrubs, perennials, annuals, home-baked goods, and local gardening vendors. Come find the perfect annual or unique perennial to plant as the weather warms in East Tennessee!
All proceeds from the sale will benefit local organizations, including Blount Mansion, Ijams Nature Center, and the Knoxville Botanical Garden.
Visit KnoxvilleGardenClub.org for more info.
Carry on the long history of the tomato by growing heirloom tomatoes from seeds handed down through the generations.
PERSONALITY HIRE WITH A PAST: HEIRLOOM TOMATOES
BY JENNIFER NORTHAM, COLLECTIONS MANAGER, UT GARDENS, KNOXVILLE
THE TOMATO, Solanum lycopersicum, which translates to comforting wolf peach, has a rather recent recorded history starting in the 1500s. Wild tomatoes were from western South America, cultivated in Central America and brought back to Europe by Cortez, spreading from there. Around the 1940s, tomatoes began to be hybridized for disease resistance, thicker skin, and uniform shape for efficient harvesting, transporting, and canning, but flavor fell to the wayside.
Heirlooms are open-pollinated, have seeds that grow true to parent, and have been passed down for generations for at least 50 years. Some say true heirlooms were developed before the 1940s, before popular hybrids like ‘Big Boy’ were hybridized.
Commercial heirlooms were developed by seed companies like the Livingston Seed Company, founded in 1850 by Alexander Livingston. The ‘Livingston’s Paragon’ tomato was introduced in 1870 and was smooth, uniform, round, and meaty. Other significant releases were ‘Golden Queen’ (1882), ‘Stone’ (1889), ‘Gold Ball’ (1892), ‘Dwarf Aristocrat’ (1893), ‘Large Rose Peach’ (1898), ‘Magnus’ (1900), ‘Globe’ (1905), and ‘Oxheart’ (1925).
Family heirloom tomatoes depend on seed saving, sharing, and heritage. ‘Cherokee Purple’ came about after a man in Sevierville was given seed by his neighbor whose family was given the purple tomato by Cherokee Indians 100 years ago. The man also gifted seed to tomato aficionado Craig LeHoullier, who helped popularize one of the best tasting tomatoes ever. Other Tennessee heirlooms include ‘Tennessee Britches,’ ‘Spear’s TN Green,’ and ‘Middle TN Low Acid.’ ‘Mortgage Lifter,’ ‘San Marzano,’ ‘Suddeth’s Strain Brandywine,’ and ‘Black Krim’ are also known to do well in East Tennessee.
Tomatoes need full sun, organic matter, some of the stem buried when planting, mulch, soil pH around 6.2-6.8, staking, and pruning of lower leaves. I use an all-purpose organic granular garden fertilizer, blood meal for nitrogen, bone meal for phosphorous when planting, and add phosphorous (not nitrogen) again when flowering starts. As long as the plants are watered consistently, calcium from the soil will be transported throughout the plant. Water at the base or with a drip hose. Harvest when the fruit is 1/3 ripe and bring indoors to finish the process. Plant with French marigolds, basil, alyssum, Agastache, chives, and cosmos. Heirloom tomato plants are more susceptible to disease, can have lower yields than hybridized tomatoes, and should be rotated to different garden
beds or grown in fresh straw bales every year to limit pests and disease. They also are more of a challenge to grow in hotter parts of the state.
Heirloom tomatoes pack huge personalities filled with history, countless flavors depending on acid and sugar levels, and come in all kinds of shapes and colors. A single type of tomato can taste totally different from one person to another. The coolest part is whatever variety is favored, it can be grown again with the preservation of the seeds and their stories.
You will find heirloom tomatoes growing in the kitchen garden in the UT Gardens, Knoxville, and in the UT Gardens, Crossville. Both sites will offer heirloom tomatoes in their spring plant sales.
The UT Gardens includes plant collections located in Knoxville, Crossville, and Jackson, Tennessee. Designated as the official botanical garden for the State of Tennessee, the UT Gardens are part of the UT Institute of Agriculture. The Gardens’ mission is to foster appreciation, education, and stewardship of plants through garden displays, educational programs, and research trials. The Gardens are open during all seasons and free to the public. For more information, visit UTGardens.Tennessee.edu.
UT GARDENS KNOXVILLE’S SPRING PLANT SALE
2518 Jacob Drive off Neyland Drive Saturday, April 11, 9 am - 2 pm
Shop an expertly curated selection of native perennial flowers, fashionable houseplants, ornamental trees, and shrubs of all shapes and sizes. Bring your garden questions for helpful advice from UT Gardens’ staff and Tennessee Master Gardeners who will be available throughout the event. All proceeds benefit UT Gardens, Knoxville.
Preview sale on Friday, April 10, from 4 - 7 pm for UT Gardens’ members, volunteers, and UT employees. Memberships will be available for purchase at the pre-sale. Garden members also receive a 10% discount on their plant purchases.
UT GARDENS’ PLANT OF THE MONTH
Photo by A. Simpson, courtesy Kimberly Ann Farms in Ten Mile, Tennessee
GARDENING IN APRIL
WE HAVE CERTAINLY seen what happens when the rollercoaster of spring pulls out of the station! Sunburn on Sunday and snow on Monday seems extreme, but anyone from this area knows it isn’t that unusual. If you are wise, you will keep your frost blankets, empty pots, and other plant covers accessible until after Mother’s Day. Or you can just let “survival of the fittest” make your plant selections for you.
I know that many of you have been chomping at the bit to get out in your yards, and several of you are already knee deep in landscape renovations. This month I am going to talk to you about how to ensure the best success rate for your plants.
BY LISA GRUGIN
established, and you will need to water them with something other than a sprinkler. Hand watering or drip irrigation works best. Trees and shrubs need water to penetrate to the bottom of the root ball once a week and sprinklers only get the top inch or so. Keep an eye on your rain gauge, and water any week where we don’t get at least 1 inch of rain. A good, natural mulch will help to keep moisture levels more stable, but don’t make it deeper than 3 inches - and never pile it around the trunk!
1. Put the right plant in the right place. Too often customers walk into a “garden center” where the employees don’t know a pansy from a petunia and walk out with a plant that will never meet their expectations. Sun plants get planted in shade, shade plants get planted in sun, acid lovers get planted in basic soil, large trees are too close to the house, etc., etc., etc. Know what kind of soil you have, what amount of sun you get, and how big you want the plant to grow. Do some research before you buy. Some of these plants will be at your house longer than your children, so try to make good decisions.
2. Be prepared for the eventual size of a plant. Trees too close to your house will take it over and destroy your foundation. Shrubs can hide windows and overgrow your sidewalks. Look at the mature size and don’t tell yourself you can keep it small, because you aren’t going to want to fight that battle long term. Do your research.
3. Plant correctly. The optimal hole is no deeper than the growing container but 2x the width. (Contrary to popular opinion, most plants do not shoot roots deep into the soil. The vast majority send roots out, not down.) As you remove the clay from the hole, dump it onto a tarp or into a wheelbarrow. You then need to add in a good planting mix or soil conditioner until you have a 50/50 mix. Use this mixture to backfill your hole. Water the plant well and add more soil if the dirt settles.
4. Plants are living organisms that require care. You cannot “plant and forget.” Trees and some shrubs can take years to become
5. Be realistic about your gardening desires and abilities. If you travel several months out of the year, have children that have lots of activities, or are getting to the point where gardening isn’t as easy as it used to be, you probably don’t want high maintenance plants. Raised beds, native plants, and container
gardening might be good options for your season of life.
Once your plants are in the ground and settled, take a nice walk around your yard at least once a week so you can keep an eye on things. It is much easier to treat insect and disease problems if you don’t wait too long. If a plant doesn’t seem happy, snip off a little piece of it and take it to a garden center so they can diagnose the problem and help you get the proper treatment. Sometimes fungal damage looks like insect damage or a soil pH problem looks like a water problem. Make sure you are treating for the right problem!
Speaking of treatments, I always encourage you to use the most gentle product first. Start with insecticidal soap and horticultural oils before you move to harsh (and sometimes toxic) chemicals. Make sure the plant is getting what it needs to be healthy and it will recover from damage more quickly. Like humans, stress makes plants more susceptible to issues.
That is all for this month. Go outside and play in the dirt!
New Exhibitions Opening
THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present four new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville April 3-25. Many of the works on exhibition will be for sale and may be purchased by visiting in person or the online shop at KnoxAlliance.store.
What We Carry: Meaning, Memory, and the Human Experience curated by Jordan Ahlers in the Balcony Gallery
What We Carry: Meaning, Memory, and the Human Experience brings together nine contemporary artists whose work explores the emotional and conceptual forces that shape human life through photography, painting, sculpture, glass, and mixed media. At its core, What We Carry: Meaning, Memory, and the Human Experience considers a question fundamental to artistic practice: Why do artists make work at all? Across differences in medium, scale, and aesthetic language lies a shared impulse - to process lived experience, to grapple with the forces that shape our lives, and to translate emotion, memory, and inquiry into visual form. What we carry, individually and collectively, becomes both subject and substance.
Participating artists include Patty Carroll, Seth Clark, Tom Eckert, Jennifer Halvorson, Heather Hietala, Pam Longobardi, Robert F. Lyon, Samantha Keely Smith, and Tim Tate.
Collectively, these artists are united not by medium but by inquiry. Each work reflects a distinct response to the experiences we carry through life - love and loss, memory and transformation, responsibility and belonging. Ultimately, What We Carry proposes art as a site of reflection: a space in which personal histories intersect with broader cultural and environmental narratives, allowing viewers to encounter not only the artist’s perspective, but their own.
Jordan Ahlers is the owner and director of Momentum Gallery in Asheville, one of the leading fine art galleries in the south. With more than three decades of experience, Ahlers has collaborated with professional artists nationwide, helping to advance their careers and place works in prominent private and corporate collections. He has curated solo and group exhibitions and has partnered with numerous museums to develop and facilitate traveling exhibitions. Known for his discerning eye and thoughtful approach, Ahlers has designed and successfully implemented multiple gallery spaces.
Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee in the Lower Gallery
Members of the Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee will share their joy of quilting in a special exhibit focused on celebrating Earth Month. Quilts in the exhibit will represent the breadth of experience in the guild, from beginner to national award winners, and include creations by both new and long-time members. The quilts represent nature in a variety of artistic techniques that range from traditional to stylized and geometric. Examples of how
nature is depicted in the displayed quilts: One collected natural materials to create imprints; a variety of animals; storms, lightning, and wind; at least two quilts were crafted almost entirely from scraps that would otherwise have been discarded, a recycling tradition in quilting.
About the Smoky Mountain Quilters
The Smoky Mountain Quilters of Tennessee is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Guild meetings are typically on the first Tuesday of each month at Messiah Lutheran Church. Guild activities include workshops, block drawings, exhibits, and quilts made for local charities. The guild’s more than 100 members are as diverse as the quilts they love - traditional and art quilts, complex and minimalist modern designs, miniatures and bed-sized, and hand- or machine-stitched. For more information about the guild, visit SmokyMtnQuilters.com.
Artimal History by A.B.A. Turner in the Atrium
Artimal History is a series of anthropomorphized versions of classic figurative art A.B.A. Turner is creating for a children’s picture book project. The paintings are a way to explore and share art history, with a touch of humor.
A.B.A. Turner is a retired reference librarian who formerly worked at the School of Visual Arts, where he studied drawing, painting, and animation in his off-hours.
The Cumberland Woodturners in the Display Case
The Cumberland Woodturners is proud to be part of the April exhibitions at the Emporium. Participating members include Ted Pelfrey, Rod Smith, Larry Lewis, Thomas Neckvatal, Ron Solfest, Randy Geckler, and Eric Winkler.
The Cumberland Woodturners are a group of men and women who enjoy the art of turning wood. Their members range from novice to professional with a shared interest of creating art from wood utilizing the lathe. Everyone is welcome. For more information, visit CumberlandWoodturners.com.
The exhibitions will be on display April 3-25 at the Emporium Center, located at 100 S. Gay Street in Knoxville. In April, the Emporium is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm. For more information, call 865-523-7543 or visit KnoxAlliance.com. Emporium
I’ll Rise Samantha Keely Smith
Pencil Nexus Robert F. Lyon
Vortex Susan Vachino
Blooming Kindness: How Random Acts of Flowers Spreads Joy and Sustainability
AT RANDOM ACTS of Flowers, our mission is rooted in compassion. With a simple yet profound gesture, every week we remind someone that they are seen, valued, and not alone. When we give repurposed blooms, we uplift the spirit of individuals in healthcare settings by delivering bouquets crafted from donated flowers, creating moments of beauty and connection where they matter most.
But behind each joyful delivery is a larger story of community partnership and a beautiful byproduct of environmental stewardship. Our work begins with generous donations of flowers from weddings, events, grocery stores, funerals, and caring individuals. Instead of these blooms being discarded after a single use, our volunteers lovingly deconstruct, refresh, and redesign them into new arrangements. Each bouquet reflects the belief that beauty can be renewed and shared.
them new purpose in the hands of recipients who benefit from the emotional boost of a thoughtful gift. When items can’t be used, we pass them along to local florists, community partners, or organizations like KARM, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Even our green waste, from floral clippings to spent petals, is composted by the Lawn Butler and transforms what would be trash into nutrient-rich material that supports healthier soil and a more sustainable local ecosystem. It’s a beautiful byproduct of our mission: spreading kindness while reducing environmental impact in tangible, measurable ways.
What many people don’t see is the meaningful environmental impact this model creates. Every stem has a second life, and every vase or vessel is one less item entering our landfills. We upcycle thousands of vases, cups, and baskets each year, giving
At Random Acts of Flowers, we believe small acts create big change. Through the combined efforts of donors, volunteers, and community partners, we deliver thousands of moments of joy each year while simultaneously caring for the planet we all share. Don’t forget to follow along on our social media pages for updates, stories, and ways to get involved!
For more information about Random Acts of Flowers or to get involved, call 865-633-9082 or visit our website at RandomActsofFlowers.org.
APRIL 25 • 4 - 9 PM • YEE-HAW BREWING ON N. BROADWAY LIVE MUSIC BY THE STOLEN FACES
Bringing hundreds together for a day of love, remembrance, and action, the 2nd annual Rally for Rowan has a silent auction, live music by The Stolen Faces, and family-friendly activities. Money raised helps families impacted by Sanfilippo Syndrome (MPS III), a rare, terminal genetic disorder often referred to as “childhood Alzheimer’s.” Last year’s event provided emotional, logistical, and financial support to families navigating this heartbreaking diagnosis and donated to the Muenzer MPS Research and Treatment Center at UNC Chapel Hill. For more information, visit RallyForRowan.org.
BobYouthWatt Fishing
Rodeo
SATURDAY, MAY 9
ANCHOR PARK IN FARRAGUT FOR KIDS AGES 12 AND UNDER FREE EVENT! Pre-registration required for either the 7:30 - 8:30 am or 9 - 10 am session.
Bait and some poles provided but please bring your own pole if you can!
The Widening Skills Gap
HAVE YOU EVER needed a plumber, an electrician, or any other experienced professional from the multitude of trades we depend upon for the upkeep of our homes, businesses, infrastructure, and countless other necessities? Ever have a difficult time finding someone you feel comfortable with to assist you with an important repair either because the number of available professionals in that trade is limited or are they too busy to provide timely help? Most have experienced one of these scenarios or know someone who has. Unfortunately, this has started to become more common.
Why? There are several competing statistics on the widening skills gap in the trades. None are good, but two are quoted most often. Both should concern all of us, regardless of economic status or any other measurable demographic. The first is that 50% of skilled tradesmen are over the age of 50. The second is that for every two people who join the skilled trades, five retire. Put both together, and we are headed toward a stark new reality regarding the ongoing construction and maintenance of our entire private and public infrastructure. That is unless we start to create a real outlook shift
IN OTHER
BY ANDY BARTON
on the importance of the trades and those who practice them.
I was encouraged to pursue a college education as the means to live a better life. I remember statistics our guidance counselors gave us regarding the average income of college graduates vs. high school graduates. This message was commonplace for my generation and those that have followed. It has unfortunately sent the inadvertent message to generations of young people that earning a college degree was step one to being happy, successful, and financially stable. In turn, this meant other vocations, including the skilled trades, not requiring a college degree became to be viewed as somehow less than.
What we were not told was that college is not for everyone. And a degree is certainly
not a measure of an individual’s intelligence, nor is it a direct correlation to success and happiness. This is not meant to denigrate the need for college or the value of the degrees graduates earn in pursuit of their chosen profession. Quite the opposite. There are certainly a great number of important and necessary professions that require a degree. Instead, the message is we need to work diligently and urgently to close the skills gap in our country before we reach a crossroads from which we will have an incredibly difficult time working back from. We need to uplift the trades and those who choose to follow that path. That starts with redefining step one on the path to success. Let them know there are multiple paths and the definition of success is different for everyone. Thankfully, more are recognizing this and are starting to give more attention to closing the gap. Some are large corporations, such as The Home Depot and its Path to Pro program. There are larger national organizations that operate on a more local level such as SkillsUSA or Build Talent Foundation. Mike Rowe from the Dirty Jobs television show runs the mikeroweWORKS Foundation and gives away Work Ethic Scholarships to young people interested in the trades. Then there are the growing number of very localized programs across the country designed to help young men and women learn a skilled trade. All are trying to do their part in uplifting a critical sector of our economy.
There does seem to be a momentum shift occurring. However, it is still early and not nearly publicized enough. We must start as individuals, then as a larger society, really start to recognize the potential implications of not narrowing the skills gap. It begins with deciding to value those skilled tradesmen and women just as we value our teachers, doctors, engineers, etc. Without skilled tradespeople, we cannot have safe and functioning school facilities for the teachers and their students. There is no reliable running water at your doctor’s office for proper hygiene or electricity to power life-saving equipment. And there is no one to construct the submarines, bridges, and structures the engineers designed.
I am admittedly a big fan of Mike Rowe and his message regarding the importance of the skilled trades and work ethic. His organization and others like it are making an impact, but they need our help too in lifting up our skilled tradespeople and everything they do to keep the wheels of civilization turning and in the right direction.
Andy Barton is the Vice President of Residential Sales at CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee. He worked in the hospitality industry for 23 years before joining CertaPro in 2018. Andy enjoys leading people, managing projects, customer service, and spending time with his wife and son.
where the beauty of East Tennessee is cultivated for generations
where traditions are honored
where everyone can find respite, beauty, and belonging.
where a child’s wonder becomes lifelong love
The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a nonprofit, public garden located on 44 acres of the former Howell Nurseries. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Garden features walking trails, display gardens, unique & historic horticulture, timeless buildings, and over two miles of distinctive stone walls. Located just five minutes from downtown, the Garden is free and open to the public every day of the year thanks to the generous support of our members and contributors.
SPRING PLANT SALE
• Saturday, April 18 • 9 am to 2 pm
A wonderful variety of native perennials, ornamental shrubs, and herbaceous plants will be available for purchase. The sale directly benefits the ongoing efforts to keep this beautiful landscape thriving and accessible to our community.
