Everything Knoxville February 2026 Edition

ISTY COTTRELL, MC Wellness & Aesthetics founder and practitioner, offers cash-pay concierge-level care with a focus on prevention and long-term well-being. After decades in healthcare, Misty knew she wanted to provide “a setting where conversations didn’t feel rushed and where patients felt comfortable asking questions, reflecting, and participating actively in their care.”

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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

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info@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.

WEARE SO excited that

Brett’s sister-in-law (his brother’s widow) has moved from upstate Virginia to East Tennessee. What used to be a seven hour drive to see her is now a mere hour and a half - woo hoo!

She decided to build in a recently developed neighborhood, and the house was completed(ish) right after Thanksgiving 2025. While her home was still very much under construction, she decided to throw an after-party for all the people who “contributed” to her new home and her move to Tennessee. What a great idea, right?

The Open House Party was set for the 20th of December, and invitations were handed out to everyone involved. We were fortunate enough to “make the cut.” During the party, we met her realtor, people from her builder’s company, her contractor, the electrician, the guy who poured the concrete for the path to her front porch, her recently acquired local friends (who even came early to help), along with many others. They

all felt so validated and appreciated for their contribution. Again, what a great idea for a party!

One of her new local friends (also a recent transplant) brought her brother, who was visiting from upstate West Virginia, to the open house. When our lovely party host found out that her friend’s brother’s birthday was in a couple of days, she got all the party attendees to sing Happy Birthday to him as a group. He was visibly touched by the sentiment. How sweet - all the way around! It really was a good reminder that people are people and everyone just wants to know (at least every once in a while) that they matter to others. Did all the house construction go smoothly? Of course not. Were the deadlines met? Not all the time. Was everyone trying their best to do their job well? Yep! We are so grateful to have been a part of this giant Thank You Party. What a great idea!

Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor

I created MC Wellness & Aesthetics to be the kind of place I would want to go myself - where there is time to talk, listen, and feel supported while working toward better health, and understanding changes that no longer feel familiar.

- Misty Cottrell, FNP-C, NAMS MSCP, and MC Wellness & Aesthetics Founder

BY MISTY COTTRELL, OWNER & PRACTITIONER

MYMOTIVATION to start MC Wellness & Aesthetics came from a very real place in my career. I spent many years working within traditional healthcare, much of that time caring for patients with complex, chronic conditions. That work was meaningful and important - but it was also constrained. Visits were short, priorities were often reactive, and there was limited opportunity to slow down, ask deeper questions, or focus on prevention and long-term well-being.

There are so many excellent clinicians doing their very best within systems that simply don’t allow for time. What I found increasingly difficult was the inability to sit with patients, listen fully, educate them, and support them through nuanced changes - especially when symptoms didn’t fit neatly into a checklist or lab range.

Fifteen-minute appointments are rarely enough to understand the full picture, particularly when it comes to hormonal shifts, metabolism, mental health, and major life transitions. Over time, I realized I wanted to work in a setting where conversations didn’t feel rushed and where patients felt comfortable asking questions, reflecting, and participating actively in their care.

I also wanted more control over my professional life. After decades in healthcare, it became increasingly important to choose how I spent my days and how I showed up for others. As I’ve gotten older, loving what I do again matters deeply - feeling energized, and proud of the care I’m providing.

The Importance of NAMS Certification

Becoming a certified practitioner through the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) was very intentional. I found myself holding a special place in my heart for the many women who looked and felt just like me - exhausted, frustrated, and confused by what was happening to their bodies. They weren’t imagining their symptoms. They weren’t “crazy.” They were simply going through a complex and under-recognized transition and desperately needed someone to say “I hear you.” This is real. And there is help. NAMS is cons idered the gold standard in menopause education and has played a critical role in changing the conversation around perimenopause and menopausea stage of life that affects every system in a woman’s body yet is often under-taught in medical training. I was personally drawn to NAMS during my own perimenopausal journey, when I struggled with symptoms despite “normal” lab results. That experience highlighted how important specialized, evidence-based education truly is.

NAMS certification provides comprehensive training in hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, cardiovascular and bone health, mental health, sexual health, and long-term disease prevention, along with ongoing education requirements.

MC Wellness & Aesthetics Areas of Focus

Women’s Health

Many women are told to “push through” midlife changes or are offered quick solutions without clear explanations. Even modest changes in weight, sleep, or energy can significantly affect how someone feels day to day. Perimenopause and menopause can be especially discouraging when women feel they are doing everything “right” and still not seeing results.

Hormonal changes are complex and often

require a period of adjustment - especially for those who are new to hormone therapy. Effective care takes time, including careful listening, symptom tracking, and thoughtful dose adjustments as the body responds. MC Wellness & Aesthetics was created to support this ongoing, collaborative process, rather than a quick fix followed by long gaps between visits.

Men’s Health

Men often come in with concerns about energy, focus, mood, or body composition and wonder whether these changes are simply part of aging. My role is to help sort thro ugh that thoughtfully. Testosterone optimization may be part of care, but it’s never the whole picture. Sleep, stress, cardiovascular health, and lifestyle factors all matter. Education is straightforward, plans are individualized, and care is never one-size-fits-all.

Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Services

Aesthetics at MC Wellness & Aesthetics are meant to complement overall wellness. Treatments are conservative, personalized, and focused on helping patients look refreshed and confident - never overdone. Aesthetic care is viewed as an extension of self-care, not a replacement for it.

Mental & Emotional Wellness

Hormonal shifts can significantly affect mood, anxiety, focus, and sleep, yet these symptoms are often overlooked or minimized. When appropriate, mental and emotional wellness are thoughtfully integrated into care, recognizing how closely connected these systems truly are.

Why MC Wellness & Aesthetics?

Cash-pay, concierge-level care allows me to offer an approach that many people haven’t experienced before. I don’t rush visits, and I don’t treat symptoms in isolation. I take time to listen, explain, and connect the dots - especially when it comes to hormones and midlife changes that are often misunderstood or minimized. Many patients come to me after being told everything is “normal” even though they don’t feel normal. I help make sense of that. I genuinely love this work. When my patients start to feel better physically, they finally have the energy and motivation to make lifestyle changes that previously felt impossible. Movement becomes easier. Sleep improves. Nutrition feels more manageable. Progress finally feels attainable.

MC Wellness & Aesthetics

102 S Campbell Station Road, Suite 26 Farragut, TN 37934

MCWellnessandAesthetics.com

By appointment only

Schedule online

Chase away the Winter blues

By Dressing Up Your Windows

19TH ANNUAL

MARCH 7 • 11 AM - 3 PM • OLD CITY TO WORLD’S FAIR PARK

CALLING ALL pet owners, animal welfare advocates, and people searching for a fun family-friendly time! Knoxville’s biggest pet parade and party is on March 7th. Register your pet to participate in the paw-rade that starts in the Old City at 11 am and travels through downtown to World’s Fair Park or join the spectators along the route. After the parade, the pet festival in World’s Fair Park has local food trucks, pet-loving vendors, live music, games, and more. Mardi Growl supports Young-Williams Animal Center, a “no-kill” facility. Bring the whole family and friends - it’ll be a dog-gone good time!

FEBRUARY: Your Home Refresh and Month of Making

FEBRUARY SHOWS up every year with its fresh-start vibes, but let’s be honest… it also brings a whole lot of gray skies and “now what?” moments. That’s exactly why Louisville Mercantile is turning this month into something a whole lot more fun. Around here, February isn’t dull - it’s the month creativity takes center stage.

We’ve officially declared it the Month of Making. Louisville Mercantile is rolling out a full calendar of Creative Classes - everything from relaxed beginner painting sessions to those DIY projects you’ve been curious about but haven’t tried yet. Our classes are designed for real people with real lives… meaning no experience needed, just a willingness to have fun while you create. “Nothing makes my day like seeing someone walk out smiling with something they made,” said Sylvia, owner of Louisville Mercantile. “It reminds us why we do what we do.”

Because inspiration doesn’t end when class is over, Louisville Mercantile is spotlighting some nationally loved brands that help bring all your ideas to life. Iron Orchid Designs turns everyday projects into total “wow” moments. Debi’s DIY Paints keep the color and personality flowing. And Emily Lex Watercolors offer a gentle, joyful way to explore your creative side. You can find them all - along with supplies for just about any project - right here in the shop and online.

Thursday, February 12 1-3:30 PM

To register, visit LouisvilleMercantile.com INTRODUCTION TO WATERCOLOR

Oh, and by the way… February isn’t just about creating. It’s also a good time to give yourself the perfect Valentine’s Day gift of a home refresh. From new décor to one-of-a-kind pieces - and even pre-loved treasures - we’ve got plenty to brighten your space. And if you happen to have quality furniture you’re ready to let go of, we’re currently accepting furniture consignments. Here’s to a month filled with fresh ideas, happy moments, and the simple joy of making something wonderful. Louisville Mercantile is ready when you are.

Louisville Mercantile 2801 Topside Road

Louisville, TN 37777 865.724.3195

LouisvilleMercantile.com

Adding Your Teen to Your Auto Policy

BY DANA PUMARIEGA, AGENCY MANAGER

IS IT TIME to add your young driver to your auto policy? Perhaps you’ve been wondering: “How much would insurance be for a 16-year-old?” Just as safety-conscious parents-to-be often think about car seat safety, concerned parents of teenagers often begin thinking about driving safety long before their child’s important 16th birthday! This is an exciting time, and I’m here to help make sure you and your young driver are protected and ready for their first miles on the road.

Becoming a driver is a crucial time in a teenager’s life, so conversations about safety are important before new drivers take off behind the wheel. This is why we provide the Farm Bureau Insurance First Mile program: to encourage safe driving habits among teens while helping you save on auto insurance along the way.

Steps to Take to Get Your Young Driver Covered

1. Add your teen to your auto policy.

Adding a new driver is crucial to help ensure that your young driver is protected in case of an accident. Once your teen is licensed, please contact us to add your teen driver to your auto policy.

2. Take The First Mile online course.

Drivers 16-17 years old that are accident free can earn a discount of up to 10% on auto insurance by completing a short online course. Your teen can access The First Mile at fbiTN.com/ FirstMile and earn the discount in five simple steps. It should only take your teen about 10 minutes to complete.

3. Contact us to apply your discount.

Please notify us once your teen has completed the First Mile program. We will finalize adding your teen to the policy and adding the First Mile discount.

4. Review coverages.

With this new change, it could be a good time to review all your insurance to make sure it meets your family’s evolving needs. You can contact us at any time to schedule an insurance review.

As always, let us know if you have additional questions or if we can assist further during this exciting time. Thank you for choosing us to protect what matters most to you!

Hardin Valley Farm Bureau Insurance

10851 Hardin Valley Road Knoxville, TN 37932

865.247.6517

fbiTN.com

Make the Most of Your Health Savings Account (HSA)

BY ADAM KORNEGAY, ADAM@APCPLAN.COM

DIDYOU KNOW Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) may be one of the best account types in the Internal Revenue Code?

You’ve probably heard of Roth accounts, which allow you to invest now and pay no taxes on future growth (assuming you meet certain criteria). When used properly, an HSA can arguably be an even more powerful tool in a retirement portfolio than a Roth IRA.

HSAs enjoy three types of tax savings:

• A tax deduction for contributions

• Tax-free growth of funds inside the HSA

• Tax-free withdrawals when used to pay for qualified medical expenses

To contribute to an HSA in 2026, you must participate in a high-deductible health care plan with annual deductibles of at least $1,700 for individuals and $3,400 for families. Additionally, the out-of-pocket maximum for those plans must be $8,500 for individuals and $17,000 for families. Contribution limits in 2026 are $4,400 for individuals and $8,750 for families. Catch-up contributions of $1,000 are also available for those 55 or older. As a side note, once you enroll in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. Also, HSAs impose penalties for non-qualified withdrawals.

As you’re aware, medical expenses are a near-certainty in today’s world. In fact, according to the 2025 Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost estimate, a 65-year-old individual may need $172,500 to cover health care expenses in retirement.

To make the most of the “triple-tax advantage” of an HSA, here are two things you need to do:

First, wait to take distributions. If funds go in and then immediately go out, you lose the advantage of the tax-free growth. Unlike Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), the balance you accumulate in your HSA is yours to keep until you withdraw it. If your cash flow allows for it, pay for medical expenses from your bank account to allow the HSA to grow as much as possible over the years.

Second, invest your funds. Most HSA custodians require a certain amount (typically $1,000) to be left in cash, but the remainder can be invested in mutual funds for long-term growth. If your HSA custodian does not allow for funds to be invested, you can transfer your HSA to a different custodian that offers investment options.

Many HSA owners know about the tax benefits of contributions and distributions but miss out on the potential to invest HSA funds that can create even greater long-term tax savings. Make sure you make the most of your HSA.

Adam Kornegay is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and a Certified Kingdom Advisor ® with APC Financial Planning, now a part of Savant Wealth Management, serving clients in East Tennessee and beyond. He can be reached at 865-690-1231 or adam@apcplan.com. APC Financial Planning joined Savant Wealth Management on 12/31/25. Savant Wealth Management (“Savant”) is an SEC registered investment adviser headquartered in Rockford, Illinois. This is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized financial advice. Please consult your financial professional regarding your unique circumstances.

ISaving a Foundational Forest Species A tiny beetle

could help save the Smokies’ hemlocks

COURTESY OF THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

N GREAT SMOKY Mountains

National Park, a quiet battle is underway - one that could determine the future of our forests. The enemy? The hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA), an invasive insect from Asia that has been killing eastern hemlock trees since it was first detected here in 2002.

Hemlocks are foundational species in the Smokies’ ecosystem. Their dense canopies help keep mountain streams cool, creating ideal habitats for native species like brook trout, salamanders, and aquatic insects. Their roots stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and help maintain clean waterways throughout the park. Tennessee has been particularly impacted in areas of Cades Cove and Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome). But without intervention, eastern hemlocks could face ecological extinction.

What’s being done

Park biologists are using a multi-pronged, integrated approach to fight HWA:

Systemic treatments: Individual trees are treated with a systemic pesticide on a 5-7 year rotation.

Spray treatments: Trees are sprayed annually in high-traffic areas like campgrounds and picnic spots during the off-season.

Biocontrol: The newest and most promising tool in the fight. Laricobius osakensis beetles - tiny beetles native to Japan (where HWA also originates) - feed exclusively on HWA. After years of research and careful approval, they’re now being released at select sites in the park.

Why biocontrol

Unlike chemical treatments, biocontrol offers a long-term, sustainable solution to

the HWA problem. These beetles lay their eggs near HWA colonies, and when the larvae hatch, they feed on the adelgids.

Why it matters

Invasive species like HWA disrupt native ecosystems and often lack natural predators. HWA is a major threat to the biodiversity of forests in the Smokies.

This biocontrol effort has the potential to preserve an iconic species and protect the ecological integrity of the park for generations to come.

Akima Cabaret: The Wizard of Hawz

February 27 • 7 PM | February 28 •

WHAT HAPPENS when a couple who hates country music goes moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg - only to find themselves transported to the land of Hee Haw with all its colorful characters? Their arrival causes a musical rift, and now all the pop, rock, and country artists are singing the wrong genres. Miss Minnie Pearl sends them on a journey to find the Wizard of Hawz to set things right! Who will they encounter along the way? Will country music ever be country again? Will they ever make it home?

Find out at Akima Cabaret 2026: The Wizard of Hawz. The evening performance on February 27 includes the show, dinner, dancing, and silent auction. The matinee performance on February 28 includes the show and silent auction. For more information, visit AkimaClub.org.

Founded in 1947, Akima is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in its 79th year. Cabaret is an every-other-year event with all proceeds going to the Akima Grant program, which provides funding to area nonprofit agencies. These agencies cover programming for arts, culture, and science; children and youth; medical and social services; senior assistance, and a variety of other fields. Earnings from the 2024 Cabaret went to Akima Grants in 2024 and 2025 and totaled more than $186,000. So grab your partner and get your tickets at AkimaClub.org and get ready for a night of fun, food, and music that will remind you there is no place like down home.

Lilou Brassiere Your French Retreat on Gay Street

BY KELLY JO GROSSER LARSEN

IF YOU ARE looking for an elevated breakfast, brunch, or dinner experience, look no further than Lilou on Gay Street. Lilou is a French-style restaurant that serves breakfast daily, brunch on the weekends, and dinner and cocktails each evening. Lilou is owned by Aaron Thompson and Jessica King - who also own Brother Wolf and Osteria Stella.

Prior to opening Lilou, the owners spent a month in France doing research and trying restaurants to give them inspiration.

truly exquisite. As you know, I will always be saving room for dessert. The crème brûlée was worth saving room for, and I’d highly recommend it.

On the weekends, they have a jazz band

The menu offers an amazing selection of rotating imported French cheeses and fun starters like escargot or delicious French onion soup. For main entrees, you can choose from duck, chicken, salmon, burgers, and my favorite - the steaks - cooked to perfection. I could make a meal off of the sides alone. Who doesn’t love duck fat fries? Yum! The flavors are

playing during brunch hours. Gather with friends or family to enjoy the music, ambience, and incredible food. My favorite item on the menu has to be the brioche French toast. It’s the perfect combination of tart and sweet. The homemade citrus Chantilly cream really seals the deal in my opinion. They have seasonal croissants and pastries,

amazing coffees, oysters, croque madame, crepes - the list goes on and on. My mouth is watering at the thought!

The restaurant itself is absolutely beautiful on the inside down to every single detail. You walk in and immediately feel like you’re no longer in Knoxville. It is an experience worth treating yourself. I’d recommend making a reservation so your table is ready when you arrive. This is a great spot to celebrate a birthday or catch up with a friend. I have had several incredible experiences there, and I’ll continue to come back. Check them out and let them know Kelly’s Belly sent you!

Roof Replacement Isn’t the Only Option Anymore

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

Make Your Home More Loveable with a Custom Wardrobe

BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM

WHAT’S THE BEST way to treat yourself this Valentine’s Day? Invest in a home upgrade that will make life sweet! When you indulge in a custom-designed wardrobe, there will be more to love about your home - and your life! Follow these four easy and enjoyable steps to learn how.

Step One: Review Your Needs

Are you bumping elbows with your partner in your primary closet? Searching your pantry in vain for your favorite serving platter? Or constantly moving your mess out of the spare room when company comes to visit? Use daily disturbances as a roadmap for your storage needs.

Step Two: Evaluate Your Space

Look at your space with a fresh perspective. Transform an unused hallway into a storage haven using custom cabinetry, turn space around a television into a multi-purpose entertainment center, or elevate a bedroom wall with a combination of closet and desk components.

Step Three: Design Your Custom Storage Solution

Marry your storage needs with a variety of handy features such as countertops, LED lighting, decorative drawer pulls, and distinctive cabinet doors. Available in dozens of styles and finishes, your custom

wardrobe will complement any decor: sleek contemporary, classic traditional, homespun heirloom, or timeless romantic.

Step Four: Enjoy Hassle-Free Living

The benefits of made-to-measure storage are something to celebrate. Beautiful cabinetry adds a finished, sophisticated, architectural element to any room. Closed doors ensure your things remain dust-free, protected, and hidden from view. And the value of your home is guaranteed to increase: no one can say no to additional storage.

Begin a Blissful Relationship Today

With an intentionally-designed custom wardrobe, you - and your home - will enjoy beautiful surroundings, maximized storage, and smoother daily routines. Start by visiting the Closets by McKenry 2,000-square-foot Dream Center in West Knoxville to see the latest trends in custom closet components. Serving East Tennessee for a decade, Chris McKenry and his experienced team are ready to help your home discover its perfect

Closets by McKenry 201 Center Park Drive, #1070, Knoxville, TN 37922

865.249.6382 | ClosetsByMcKenry.com

Add Real Value to Your Home and to Your Life

THE KITCHEN is probably the hardest working room in your home. We all want it to be beautiful, but it’s where we cook, bake, gather, and store essentials like food, supplies, and pots and pans, so it has to be functional. A well-thought-out kitchen has plenty of storage to keep countertops clear and is designed so you can quickly and easily find what you need and conveniently reach it.

ShelfGenie is the true turn-key leader in kitchen innovation

At ShelfGenie, we design, build, and install custom Glide-Out™ shelves for your existing cabinets and pantries. They increase storage by up to 50% and pull out their full depth so you can access the entire shelf front to back. Each shelf can hold up to 100 lbs and is made in America using high-quality materials and superior craftsmanship. We do not use one-size-fits-all, big box store substitutes.

Our process begins and ends with the homeowner

1. Our design consultant will get to know your exact needs during our free, in-home consultation and will provide you with a free 3-D design of your kitchen so you’ll see exactly what your new kitchen space will look like.

2. Your Glide-Out™ shelves will be manufactured in our very own manufacturing facility to your exact specifications.

3. Our licensed, professional installer will then install your order in one day. Finally, your designer will reach out to ensure you’re completely 100% satisfied.

Enjoy your innovative new kitchen

Turn frustration with your kitchen into joy. You can expect to increase storage, reduce clutter and wasted time looking for items, and avoid having to bend, twist, or reach into the backs of cabinets.

What our awesome clients have to say:

“Awesome folks to deal with. Great workmanship.”

- D.A., Knoxville

“We love the new shelves. They are truly life changing in the kitchen.”

- R.K., Knoxville

“Great improvement to what I had and very happy with the people I worked with.”

- S.O., Vonore

“I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new kitchen pull-out shelves. Very professional.” - K.B., Powell

“Love my new pantry shelves! They are sturdy and beautifully installed. Great customer service and friendly folks.” - M.M, Loudon To

865.409.1197

ShelfGenie.com

INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &

INTERNATIONAL FLAIR JEWELERS

The perfect find for your Valentine! Choose one of these lovely diamond necklaces or select from many more beautiful and unique jewelry options. Available at International Flair Jewelers, 11124 Kingston Pike #113 in Knoxville, 865.777.1181, InternationalFlairJewelers.com.

MC WELLNESS & AESTHETICS

Looking for a medical-grade approach texture, tone, and overall firmness? microneedling device used in medical the skin’s natural collagen production Available by appointment only 102 Campbell Station Road, Suite MCWellnessandAesthetics.com.

MAKER EXCHANGE

Visit the Curio at Maker Exchange to shop locally made artwork for 150+ makers. Shop new mixed-media paintings from local artist Chris McAdoo. 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

Iron Orchid Designs are now available in our area! Two sisters began the company specifically for upcyclers and makers - believing that “Everyone is creative and created to be so by the Creator himself.” They offer a wide variety of transfers, moulds, and stamps to transform any project into a masterpiece. These styles and many more are available at Louisville Mercantile, 2801 Topside Road in Louisville, 865.724.3195, LouisvilleMercantile.com.

AESTHETICS

approach to improving skin firmness? SkinPen is an FDA-cleared medical aesthetics to stimulate production with minimal downtime. at MC Wellness & Aesthetics, Suite 26 or online anytime at MCWellnessandAesthetics.com.

THE ART MARKET GALLERY

This walnut jewelry box designed with a dramatic geometric cut out and green stained glass was handcrafted by local woodworker Scott Angelucci (see page 24). Over 50 local artists provide vibrant marketplace items showcasing original fine art and craft that are available at The Art Market Gallery, 422 South Gay Street in downtown Knoxville (Closed on Mondays), 865.525.5265, ArtMarketGallery.net.

BRADLEY'S GIFT & HOME

Hand dipped perfection coming soon! Stop by Bradley's Gift & Home for their signature chocolate-covered strawberries dipped on Friday, February 13th, and Saturday, February 14th, from 10 am to 6 pm. To ensure the freshest berries for every guest, no pre-orders are necessary... just stop by either location at 141 N. Peters Road or 138 Biddle Farms Boulevard in Farragut, 865.384.6840, ShopBradleys.com.

Scott Angelucci

“Next year will mark 40 years of my independent woodworking career. At Able Trade, the cooperative of woodworkers, metal workers, and artists in Jackson Terminal next to the Old City, I found what I was looking fora community of creative makers.”

WOODWORKER SCOTT ANGELUCCI,

originally from Delaware, was inspired by TV shows like “This Old House” and “The New Yankee Workshop” that focused on historic restoration and reproduction furniture. This interest led him to study period furniture design and construction with the Delaware State Museums as an independent contractor conservator and restorer. Scott began creating accurate reproductions of 17th and 18th century furniture and received many commissions from collectors and patrons.

With a resurgence in the popularity of the Arts and Crafts movement, Scott began creating pieces from that period while becoming increasingly interested in architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s contributions. “I learned that he (Wright) loved and collected Japanese block prints and even designed furniture specifically for it,” recalled Scott. This prompted Scott to study Japanese architecture and furniture design. “They are masters of joinery and building without fasteners,” he said. Scott’s more recent pieces reflect these influences.

While still in Delaware, Scott and his wife, Gail, who is a stained glass artist, renovated several buildings along Milford’s Riverwalk that included a studio for each of them and a large gallery space - Angelucci Fine Woodworking and Stained Glass was born. The building’s second floor had studio space for 10 additional artists. They moved south in 2016 after visiting Knoxville while on vacation. “We instantly fell in love with the city,” Scott remembered. “It was winter, and the festive atmosphere of downtown stole our hearts. Who wouldn’t want to live here?!” Scott worked out of a small shop space in their home for years

and eventually joined The Art Market Gallery, where he began getting some exposure and finding local customers. “At a First Friday event in 2024, I discovered Able Trade, a cooperative of woodworkers, metal workers, and artists in the Jackson Terminal,” said Scott. “I found what I was looking for - a community of creative makers. Being part of a community of creative people is inspiring, and having a working location in downtown is great exposure.” What is Scott up to now after almost 40 successful years as an independent woodworker? “I’m currently working on some new pieces that take my Arts and Crafts designs in a fresh direction,” he said. “I’m also working on marquetry designs (thin wood veneers added to pieces to form intricate patterns and images) along with some unique, custom built-ins.” He has pieces at The Grove Park Inn’s Grovewood Village Gallery in Asheville and The Art Market Gallery in downtown Knoxville and recently participated in the “Southern Woodworkers Showcase” at the Emporium on Gay Street. Look for him at First Friday in April with SoKnoSculpt at Mighty Mud studio.

See Scott Angelucci’s work at The Art Market Gallery on Gay Street or contact him at AngelucciGallery@aol.com.

Living “As-If” Lives

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE

disorder is a real thing. The other day when the sun was shining and the temperatures felt more like April than January, I took advantage of a break in my schedule and went outside for a walk. “Make hay while the sun shines,” says the old adage, and it seems there’s some wisdom in it.

But there are times when the gloomy days seem to roll on without end. My wife first encountered this when I moved our family to Columbus, Ohio, for my first stint as a college professor. Although locals will tell you, with authority, that the “snow line” is still 60 miles north of the city, the Octoberto-April gray skies were too much for a Southern girl. Halfway through our second winter there, she begged me to find a job closer to the place she grew up.

There are seasons of life that feel like those Ohio skies. The change in our circumstances we’ve been hoping for often doesn’t come as quickly as our hearts desire. An improvement in your health, the email about a job offer, better days in your marriage, a loving attitude from an estranged child, or an upturn in your own mood can elude you for far too long. How do you go on when the “sunshine” of a positive turn in your life seems like it will never appear?

I’ve found it helps to live “as if” the better day is coming. Although it sounds like a simple mind trick or one of those syrupy lines in a self-help video, living “as if” isn’t just repeatedly telling yourself “the better day will come.” It’s the practice of living the life you will have when the better day has arrived.

One reason to live as though the new day has already arrived is that positive actions can and do change the way we experience our circumstances. It’s a principle psychologists discovered years ago: emotions often follow actions. Most people assume the relationship between feelings and behavior is one way: emotions shape behavior. You love someone, so you smile, hug, or kiss them. You hate someone, so you speak harshly or even strike them. But this isn’t the case; in fact, it’s often backwards. Much of the time behavior actually shapes emotion.

Research by clinical psychologists has found that the fastest way to change your emotions is to change your behaviors. In the 1970s, they came to understand that depression was indirectly a result of inactivity. People who had experienced disappointment or failure withdrew from the world in an attempt to protect themselves from similar feelings. In the short run, they were rewarded by eliminating the “causes” of their discomfort, but in the long run, these actions worsened their mood and prevented them from experiencing positive things.

The correct reaction to life’s disappointments

BY DR. JIM BAILEY

and our personal failures is not to give up and shut ourselves away, but to introduce and practice life skills that bring positive experiences into our lives. Behavioral treatment for depression often involves changing behaviors in order to experience a change in mood, something therapists call behavioral activation. In other words, if you want to change your mood, do positive things.

But there’s another reason to live as if the better day has come, and that’s because it’s already been promised. I first discovered this in some confusing language in my Bible. The authors would sometimes use words that sounded as though a turning point had already occurred and reality had changed, yet we are still waiting for it to fully arrive. This is sometimes referred to as “living in the already but not yet.”

My walk the other day offered a practical example of “living in the already but not yet.” While out, I passed a neighbor who had the same idea. “We never had sunny days like these in January when I lived in Chicago,” she exclaimed. Like a typical Knoxvillian, I responded, “Just wait 15 minutes, it will change.” Spring is certain to come, but for

now, we were enjoying the pleasures of a spring-like day in midwinter.

The biblical principle of “already but not yet” is based on the idea that God keeps his promises; therefore, anything he promises is certain to occur - either in this life or the one to come. That gives us an opportunity to live “as-if” lives. If we know what God has promised, then we can live as if it’s already come true.

This isn’t just airy-fairy thinking. Some dear friends of mine lost a child last fall. Although their grief was (and is) excruciating, they are buoyed by the biblical promise that they will be reunited with their son, who is already whole and happy. In the meantime, they live in an “already but not yet” reality, waiting for the promise to come completely true.

Years ago, when I was battling a depression of my own, I discovered that passively waiting for a change only made my life worse. Taking action steps and living as if my circumstances had already changed was a key to my return to health, but I could only do that if I had some certainty that a better day would come. What are the certainties that you use to live as if?

Suffering in Silence: Older Adults Need to Speak Up About Their Mental Health

COURTESY OF BPT

CONNIE THOMAS, a 77-yearold woman from Altamont, Illinois, has navigated a long journey with her mental health. Decades ago, Thomas was diagnosed with breast cancer. Living with her diagnosis and its results was not only physically challenging but it also brought mental struggles, including depression. She managed her mental health with medication for many years. But after retirement and feeling a loss of purpose, Thomas once again experienced symptoms of depression.

It’s not unusual for older adults like Thomas to struggle with mental health issues. In fact, according to the National Council on Aging, 20% of people aged 55 and older suffer from some kind of mental health concern. After a lifetime of caring for families, raising children and serving their communities, many seniors put their own needs last, including their mental health. This can mean suffering in silence, sometimes for years.

Thomas knew better. She knew from her experience how important it is to talk about mental health, whether it’s with friends, family, or your doctor. That conversation can open the door to new options.

In Thomas’ case, her primary care clinician offered her the GeneSight® test, a genetic test that provides additional insights into how her genes may affect medication outcomes with certain mental health medications. These results gave her clinician more information to consider when developing her treatment plan.

Finding a mental health medication that works: A frustrating process

It’s fairly common for medications that once worked to manage mental health issues like depression to stop working. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, “symptoms return for up to 33% of people using antidepressants.”

Finding a medication for depression or anxiety that works can be a frustrating game of trial and error. Medications work differently for everyone, and there are many reasons why one may be effective for some but not for others. Your genes may hold a clue, as they can play a role in affecting medication outcomes. A simple cheek swab can help clinicians understand which medications may require dose adjustments, be less likely to work, or have an increased risk of side effects based on your genetics.

Informed choices

That’s why resources like the GeneSight test are so important. The GeneSight test is a

genetic test that shows health care providers how your genes may affect your outcomes with certain mental health medications, including medications that treat depression and anxiety. This information may help clinicians make more informed decisions about medication selection or dosing.

Thomas’ GeneSight test results helped her doctor decide that a lower dose of her medication may be helpful. With that adjustment, she says she is feeling better than she has in many years.

Feel empowered to take care of your mental health

Thomas shares that in her older adult community, she sees many people struggling with depression and yet unable to talk about their mental health.

“I see how unhappy they are, inwardly and outwardly,” she said. “I try to reach out, to acknowledge that they are suffering and to encourage them to talk to someone.”

She hopes telling her story will encourage others like her to talk about their mental health and then take the next step in reaching out to a health care provider. As Thomas learned, any prescribing clinician treating mental health, like her primary care clinician, can order the GeneSight test.

To learn more about the test, talk with your clinician or visit GeneSight.com.

Statistics courtesy of Knoxville’s Your Home Team Care, offering personalized in-home senior care services at YourHomeTeamCare.com.

Intentional Spaces & Elevated Living

In this new year, the way we design our homes is shifting from simply filling space to thoughtfully shaping how we live. Intentional design is no longer about trends alone—it’s about creating rooms that support daily routines, reflect personal stories, and elevate the overall experience of home. From furniture layouts that encourage connection, to layered lighting that adapts from morning calm to evening comfort, every decision carries purpose. Materials are chosen for both beauty and longevity, palettes are grounded yet refined, and each space is designed to function seamlessly while feeling effortlessly elevated. In embracing intentional spaces, we move toward a more meaningful way of living—where our homes not only look beautiful, but truly support the lives unfolding within them.

New Year, New Better-for-You Breakfast

COURTESY OF BPT

WHETHER YOU’RE PREPARING to power through workouts or recharging for a day of play, a filling, satisfying breakfast is a fitting way to start the morning. Shaking off the sleepiness can begin with the meal of your dreams - one that’s loaded with complex carbohydrates, electrolytes, antioxidants, and protein.

For a healthier form of “carb loading,” turn to Sweetpotato Blueberry Baked Oatmeal for a quick, nutritious, better way to kickstart the day. It offers complex carbohydrates through oats and sweetpotatoes, providing a perfect base for adding yogurt, peanut butter, or pairing with eggs for a protein boost. Plus, anthocyanins found in blueberries pack an antioxidant punch to take breakfast to the next level.

Don’t let their sweet nature fool you - sweetpotatoes are a wholesome option for children, adults, and anyone interested in a nutritional boost. They’re used in cuisines all over the world as a satisfying and versatile vegetable, with many surprised to learn a medium sweetpotato contains about 100 calories when baked in the skin, along with 2 grams of protein and 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Their carbs may have a bad reputation, but they’re made up of complex carbohydrates (which provide energy) that are released at a steady pace. Furthermore, they include a myriad of health-promoting antioxidants - like vitamins A and C - that play a role in immunity, skin health, and eye health. Plus, sweetpotatoes are a good source of fiber, which helps you feel “full,” and can aid in digestion and potassium. To learn more and discover better-for-you recipes for the new year, visit ncsweetpotatoes.com.

Sweetpotato Blueberry Baked Oatmeal

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Schlichter on behalf of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked rolled or old-fashioned oats

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 1/2 cups 1% milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup mashed sweetpotato

• 1 1/2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1/3 cup maple syrup, plus more for drizzling

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2/3 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350º. Coat inside of 2-quart baking dish with butter, oil, or nonstick cooking spray.

Mix oats, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Beat in milk, eggs, sweetpotato, butter, 1/3 cup maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

Mix together, saving blueberries for last to prevent staining or crushing, and spread inside dish.

Bake 30-35 minutes until oats are tender and moisture has been absorbed. Drizzle with maple syrup, to taste.

AANTARCTICA AWAITS: Viking’s Most Breathtaking Adventure Yet

BY TRISHA BRADY, VIKING SPECIALIST AND DREAM VACATIONS FRANCHISE OWNER

NTARCTICA IS one of those destinations that doesn’t just live on a bucket list; it lives in your imagination. A place of towering icebergs, shimmering blue glaciers, and wildlife so untouched by time it feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. And while most of us assume Antarctica is reserved for hardcore explorers, Viking has redefined what it means to travel there: expedition cruising with comfort, culture, and true discovery.

One itinerary I’m especially excited to share with Knoxville travelers is Viking’s Antarctic Explorer Expedition. This unforgettable journey begins in Buenos Aires, the vibrant “Paris of South America,” and continues to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, often called the “End of the Earth.” From there, you cross the legendary Drake Passage on a purpose-built expedition ship designed for both performance and comfort, arriving at the awe-inspiring Antarctic Peninsula. And this is where the magic begins.

Each day in Antarctica is driven by nature, not a rigid schedule. You might wake to a panorama of ice cliffs glowing in the morning sun, then step into a Zodiac for a guided landing, where penguins waddle past like they own the place (because they do). You may cruise alongside icebergs the size of buildings, witness the thunderous crack of calving glaciers, or spot whales surfacing beside the ship. It’s breathtaking, humbling, and honestly hard to describe until you’ve seen it yourself.

What makes Viking different is that they bring their signature style to expedition travel: small-ship intimacy, a calm onboard experience, and a focus on learning and enrichment. Instead of loud attractions, you’ll find expert-led presentations, a sophisticated environment, and a ship designed for exploration, so the destination stays center stage. Viking’s expedition team includes scientists and researchers who help guests understand the region and make every experience more meaningful. Even better? Viking makes the journey

feel seamless. They are known for thoughtful inclusions, and on select sailings, there are often special offers, like free airfare promotions and limited-time pricing, which can make this once-in-a-lifetime trip far more attainable than many people expect.

That’s where I come in.

I'm Trisha, owner of Trisha Brady - Dream Vacations and a trained Viking Specialist. Viking partners with vetted advisors like me so travelers receive personalized guidance and a dedicated advocate. I help you choose the best sailing, cabin category, and promotional value, then handle the details that make a big difference: flights, transfers, travel protection, and pre/post stays. Most importantly, you have one trusted person managing your trip from start to finish.

If Antarctica is calling your name, I’d love to help you answer it.

Trisha Brady - Dream Vacations 865.895.7010 EpicEscapesWorldwide.com

TOTO

Bridging the Generations

IN CONCERT • FEBRUARY 23 • TENNESSEE THEATRE

FOR MORE THAN

four decades, TOTO has occupied a rare space in popular music - a band known simultaneously for chart-topping hits and astonishing musical depth. As the group prepares for another round of touring that will bring them to Knoxville and other cities across the Southeast and Midwest, lead vocalist Joseph Williams reflects on what keeps the band energized, curious, and constantly evolving.

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

It has been nearly three years since Williams last spoke at length about TOTO’s journey, and in that time, the band has hardly slowed down. Touring remains central to their identity. “My main love is playing live,” Williams said plainly. “ I love performing. I love the crowds.” While the travel can be demanding, the connection forged onstage continues to outweigh the challenges. For Williams, that connection is renewal.

That sense of renewal has been fueled in part by creativity outside the band. During the pandemic, Williams recorded a solo album largely on his own, handling songwriting, performance, and much of the engineering. The project gave him focus during an uncertain period and offered a chance to stretch creatively. Still, even with the satisfaction of solo work, the gravitational pull of live performance remains strongest. “It was gratifying,” he noted, “but playing live is what I really love.”

That love has translated into a touring approach that refuses to become static. TOTO’s current lineup, largely intact for several years, has developed a reputation for reshaping the concert experience from tour to tour. Fans can expect that the essential hits - “Africa,” “Rosanna,” and “Hold the Line” - are non-negotiable. Endings are reimagined, transitions adjusted, and arrangements subtly altered. “A lot of songs back in those days, we just faded them out on the record,” explained Williams. “Live, you can’t do that. You need some sort of interesting ending.”

What truly distinguishes a TOTO show, however, is the band’s willingness to dig deep into its catalog. With more than 15 albums spanning multiple eras, there is no shortage of material. Williams describes how the band builds set lists by creating “wish lists” of songs they have not played in years - or have never attempted live at all. For longtime fans, these moments feel like rewards. For casual listeners, they can be revelations. “People go, ‘I didn’t realize that was their song’ or ‘I’ve never heard that song,’” said Williams.

That sense of discovery helps explain why TOTO’s audience now spans generations. Parents who grew up with the band bring their children - and sometimes grandchildren - to shows. Younger fans encounter TOTO through streaming, social media, and video games, often discovering “Africa” independently of any parental influence. Williams sees parallels to his own upbringing, recalling how his

daughters absorbed The Beatles simply by riding in the car with him. “By the time they were in high school, they knew the whole collection of Beatles tunes and could sing all the harmonies with me in the car,” he said.

Energy plays a crucial role in bridging those generations. TOTO’s lineup includes younger musicians whose enthusiasm pushes the entire band forward. “ That works really well for the rest of us in our 60s,” Williams said with a laugh. The chemistry, he notes, echoes the original spirit of TOTO - a band built around elite musicians who also thrive in studio environments. That balance of precision and spontaneity keeps rehearsals exciting, particularly when tackling challenging material.

Some songs remain formidable, even for a band of this caliber. Williams points to “Minefields,” a track the group had never played live before this tour cycle. Learning how to translate complex studio arrangements into a live setting is part of the fun - and the risk. “Sometimes we don’t know if we’re going to be able to pull it off,” he admitted. “That’s what makes rehearsals interesting.”

At the heart of TOTO’s stability is the long-standing relationship between Williams and guitarist Steve Lukather. Their friendship dates back more than five decades, long before TOTO became a global name. “We’ve always been friends,” said Williams. “We like a lot of the same things musically.” That mutual respect extends beyond the stage, creating a sense of continuity that audiences feel immediately. While many long-running bands struggle with internal fractures, Williams describes their relationship as remarkably conflict-free. “We still really get along,” he said simply.

For fans in Knoxville and beyond, the message is clear: A TOTO concert is never just a replay of past glory. It is a living, evolving conversation between musicians and audience - one shaped by decades of experience, technical mastery, and a shared joy in discovery. Each tour offers a different lens through which to hear familiar songs, proving that reinvention, when guided by passion, never goes out of style.

The full interview with Joseph Williams is available on Boomerocity.com, its YouTube channel, and its podcast.

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.

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FEBRUARY

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

Donté Hayes & Kevin Kao presents Ancestral Objects: Holders of Memory, Space, and Time at the UT Downtown Gallery through the 18th.

79th annual Student Art Competition by University of Tennessee students at the Ewing Gallery of Art + Architecture through March 1st.

The Body is a Drum, the Voice a Song, the Soul a Fire at the Knoxville Museum of Art through March 1st. This exhibition shows that labor is more than work; it is an act of care binding people not just through toil but through collective action.

Smoky Night Lights 360º immersive music and light show celebrating the Smokies at Zoo Knoxville nightly through March 15th. Check ZooKnoxville.org as storm damage had temporarily closed this show.

I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music at the East Tennessee History Center through April 19th.

FEBRUARY 7

Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at the Fountain City Branch from 10 am to 5 pm.

Dogwood Arts House & Garden Show at the Convention Center from 10 am to 6 pm. Also the 8th from 10 am to 4 pm.

Tracks & Scat! Animal Activity in Winter at Ijams Nature Center at 11:30 am.

Rocks Rock! Geology Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 2:30 pm. Winter Jam 2026 at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center. Pre-show at 5 pm, show starts at 7 pm. No tickets required; donation at the door.

Woodcock Walk: Guided Birding Program at Ijams Nature Center at 5:30 pm. Also the 8th. Grand Kyiv Ballet: Swan Lake at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

Diana Krall at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

Sinatra & Friends: Simply Swingin’ with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

FEBRUARY 8

Second Sunday Art Activity at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 1 to 4 pm. Hands-on art for K-6th grade.

WordPlayers Theatre Company: The Ends We Seek at the Farragut Community Center at 1:30 pm in celebration of Black History Month. Free event!

Second Sunday Docent Tour at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 2 to 3 pm. Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestras: Winter Concert at the Tennessee Theatre at 3 pm.

Woodcock Walk Guided Birding Program at Forks of the River WMA at 5:30 pm. Also the 14th at 5:30 pm and 20th & 21st at 6 pm.

To Steve with Love: Liz Callaway Celebrates Sondheim at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm. Part of the Penny4Arts program; tickets for children and students cost one penny.

FEBRUARY 9

Creative Writing Series presents a reading by novelist Karen Parkman at the Lindsay Young Auditorium of John C. Hodges Library on the UT Campus at 7 pm. Free and open to the public.

Knoxville Symphony Youth Ensembles Showcase at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm. This special event concert brings together students from across the entire KSY program, including orchestras, choir, wind, and chamber ensembles.

FEBRUARY 10

Knoxville Jazz Orchestra: Jazz is for Lovers with Camille Thurman at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

FEBRUARY 11

Tennessee Shines with Shadowgrass, Asheville Mountain Boys, and Tidalwave Road at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm. Cabaret by the Clarence Brown Theatre Company at the new Jenny Boyd Theatre (1714 Andy Holt Ave.) at 7:30 pm. Shows through March 1st. For show times and tickets visit ClarenceBrownTheatre.com.

FEBRUARY 12

Pack the Bag fundraiser for Second Harvest Food for Kids Program through the 23rd. A gift of $15 sponsors a student for the month, while a gift of $140 covers a child for the entire year! Learn more or donate at SecondHarvestETN.org.

Members Only “We Love Our Members” Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at the Bearden Branch Library from 4 to 7 pm. Memberships available at KnoxFriends.org.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra presents Valentine’s Romance: Star-Crossed Lovers at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 13th.

FEBRUARY 13

Frozen Jr. by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre at 7 pm. Shows through March 1st. For show times and tickets visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com.

Something Foraged: Holiday Cocktails & Mocktails at Ijams Nature Center at 7 pm. Learn to craft your very own nature-inspired cocktails and mocktails during this 2-hour course from forage-able ingredients. Ice Bears vs. Pensacola Ice Flyers Pucks & Princesses at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Soundscapes at the KMA: Valentine’s with Jazmin Ghent at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 7:30 pm.

For Knoxville’s andMarketFarmers’dates locations,seepage 16

Celestial Explorations at Ijams Nature Center at 8 pm. Erick Baker at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm. Also the 14th.

FEBRUARY 14

Valentine’s Day

Polar Plunge at the University of Tennessee’s Student Aquatic Center. Check-in and registration at 10 am, costume contest at 11 am, plunge begins at 11:30 am. A benefit for Special Olympics Tennessee. For more info or to register visit SpecialOlympicsTN.org/polar-plunge.

Winter Tree ID: Beginner Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 12 pm.

Shen Yun at the Civic Auditorium at 2 pm. Also the 15th.

Winter Fungi ID: Beginner Workshop at Ijams Nature Center at 2:30 pm.

Drew and Ellie Holcomb: Never Gonna Let You Go Tour at the Tennessee Theatre at 3 & 8 pm.

Ice Bears vs. Pensacola Ice Flyers Go for Gold Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

FEBRUARY 16

Presidents’ Day

FEBRUARY 18

College Night at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 6 to 8 pm. Enjoy an evening of art, music, and mingling. Free and open to the public

FEBRUARY 19

Vienna Boys Choir at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7 pm.

FEBRUARY 20

Knoxville Choral Society: Young Artists Winter Concert at Central Bearden Church at 7:30 pm. The program features KCS’s annual scholarship recipients alongside choirs from South Doyle High School.

Knoxville Opera: Rossini’s Il barbiere di Siviglia at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 22nd at 2:30 pm.

Justin Moore at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

FEBRUARY 21

Quilt Show at the Farragut Community Center from 8 am to 5 pm. Also the 22nd from 1 to 4 pm.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks™ Live Glow-N-Fire at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 12:30 & 7:30 pm. Also the 22nd at 2:30 pm

Tracks & Scat! Animal Activity in Winter at Ijams Nature Center at 2:30 pm.

“1776 and Tennessee: The 250th Anniversary” lecture by Dr. Chris Magra at Blount Mansion at 3 pm.

THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE

The Search for Persephone, a Mythological Ballet by GO! Contemporary Dance Works at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 21st & 22nd at 2 pm. For info or tickets visit GoContemporaryDance.com.

FEBRUARY 22

Super Hero Day at Zoo Knoxville’s Wee Play Adventure Building from 10 am to 2 pm. Included with zoo admission.

Ephemeral Wildflower Walk at Ijams Nature Center at 1 pm. Also the 28th at 10 am.

FEBRUARY 23

An Evening with TOTO at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

Jesse Welles at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

FEBRUARY 26

Downtown Knoxville Boat Show at the Convention Center (World’s Fair Exhibition Hall) through March 1st.

Wilma Dykeman Stokely Lecture:

An Evening with Joy Harjo at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture from 7 to 8 pm. Free and open to the public!

Ice Bears vs. Fayetteville Marksmen Where’s Chilly? at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

The Lone Bellow at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

FEBRUARY 27

Akima Cabaret: The Wizard of Hawz - an evening show with dinner, dancing, and silent auction at The Mill & Mine at 7 pm. Also the 28th - matinee show and silent auction at 2 pm. Proceeds benefit area nonprofit agencies. For info or tickets visit AkimaClub.org.

Bailey Zimmerman: Different Night Same Rodeo Tour at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7 pm.

Red Hot Chilli Pipers at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 pm. It’s Bagpipes. It’s Rock. It’s Bagrock.

Dude Dad’s Parents Night Out (for ages 18+) at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

FEBRUARY 28

Wilderness Basics: Beginner Outdoor Skills at Ijams Nature Center at 1:30 pm.

Then Now Next: Crafters, Growers, and Revolutionary Ideals at the East Tennessee History Center from 2 to 3:30 pm.

Moonlight Garden Masquerade Annual Opera Ball presented by the Knoxville Opera Camerata at Cherokee Country Club. Cocktails and silent auction at 6:30 pm, dinner and entertainment at 7:30 pm, followed by a live auction and dancing. Proceeds benefit the Knoxville Opera’s education programs. For info or tickets visit KnoxvilleOpera.org.

Tennessee Songwriters Knoxville Showcase at the Bijou Theatre from 7 to 9 pm. Talented songwriters representing many different music genres. Part of the Penny4Arts program; tickets for children and students cost one penny with a paying adult.

Ice Bears vs. Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs Rockstar Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

MARCH 1

Knoxville Symphony Chamber Classics Series presents A Cast of Characters: Peanuts, Mother Goose & More at the Bijou Theatre at 2:30 pm.

MARCH 2

Creative Writing Series presents a reading by poet Gabrielle Bates at the Lindsay Young Auditorium of John C. Hodges Library on the UT Campus at 7 pm. Free and open to the public.

MARCH 3

Elevation Worship & Steven Furtick at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7 pm.

Knoxville Jazz Orchestra: Brown Family Get-Down with Keith Brown at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 4

Cheap Trick: All Washed Up Tour at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm.

The High Kings at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 5

Eric Church: The Machine Tour at ThompsonBoling Arena at Food City Center at 7:30 pm.

Danae Hays: The Buckwild Tour at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 6

L’Amour du Vin Wine Auction & Dinner at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 5:30 pm. Proceeds benefit the Knoxville Museum of Art.

Sunsphere Sunset at the Sunsphere from 6 to 7 pm. Enjoy refreshments, explore the Observation Deck, shop local, and watch the sunset from the best view in the city!

Ice Bears vs. Evansville Thunderbolts Bears on the Back Nine at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 7

13th annual Home & Garden Show at the Knoxville Expo Center from 10 am to 4 pm. Also the 9th. Free admission!

19th annual Mardi Growl Pet Parade & Festival at World’s Fair Park. Pet Parade kicks off in the Old City at 11 am and travels on foot to World’s Fair Park. A benefit for Young-Williams Animal Center. For info or to register your pet visit Young-Williams.org. Ice Bears vs. Evansville Thunderbolts Bassmaster Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

Darrell Scott & Will Hoge at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 8

Daylight saving time begins - spring forward Jake Owen at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

All event dates and times subject to change.

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You can also go to EverythingKnoxville.com to view the current month’s Events Calendar.

THE VILLAGE OF CONCORD

LOCATED IN West Knox County, the community of Concord traces its origins to the early 19th century, when settlers were drawn to the area’s farmland and strategic location along the Tennessee River. Early development centered on agriculture, river landings, and small family farms that relied on flatboats and steamboats to move goods to market. The river served as Concord’s earliest transportation corridor, linking the community to Knoxville and other river towns throughout East Tennessee.

Concord’s growth accelerated in the 1850s with the arrival of the East Tennessee and Georgia Railroad, which firmly established the town as a regional transportation hub. The railroad connected Concord to larger markets in Knoxville, Chattanooga, and beyond, enabling faster and more efficient shipment of agricultural products and manufactured goods. Together, the river and rail lines positioned Concord as a vital transfer point and contributed to its emergence as a prominent port community along the Tennessee River.

By the late 19th century, Concord had developed into a thriving river port that played a critical role in the movement of wheat, corn, livestock, timber, and other agricultural products from surrounding farms. Warehouses, depots, and landing facilities lined the riverfront, while local industries - including a flour mill, lumber mill, blacksmith shops, and small

manufacturing enterprises - supported economic stability and growth.

The community’s prosperity during this period fostered significant residential and civic development. Concord became known for its attractive streetscapes featuring Victorian style homes that reflected the success of local business owners and farmers. Churches served as important social anchors, while schools and fraternal organizations reinforced Concord’s identity as a close-knit and self-sustaining community. A modest but active commercial district provided essential goods and services, further enhancing the town’s desirability as a place to live and work.

Concord’s history also reflects broader regional and national changes. During the Civil War, the Tennessee River corridor was of strategic importance, and the area experienced the economic and social disruptions common to East Tennessee communities during the conflict. In the early 20th century, improvements to roads and the rise of

automobile transportation gradually diminished the town’s reliance on river and rail commerce. As shipping patterns shifted, Concord’s role as a port declined, and the community transitioned toward a more residential character.

Despite these changes, Concord retained much of its historic fabric and village-scale development. Recognition of the community’s historical and architectural significance culminated in the listing of the Concord Village Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. Today, the district preserves Concord’s legacy as an important agricultural, transportation, and commercial center, offering insight into the patterns of settlement, industry, and daily life that shaped West Knox County during the 19th and 20th centuries.

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.

Attract Backyard Birds with the Right Seeds

WHILE ALMOST all bird

seed may look pretty much the same to you, it doesn’t to the birds you’re feeding. Knowing what kinds of seeds different birds like can help you attract a variety of fine feathered friends to your feeders.

Consider these popular seed types and the common backyard birds they attract:

Sunflower - Black sunflower seeds attract blue jays, goldfinches, woodpeckers, purple finches, chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches. Striped sunflower seeds appeal to chickadees, doves, grosbeaks, northern cardinals, nuthat ches, titmice, and woodpeckers. Sunflower hearts (also known as “hulled sunflower” and “sunflower chips”) attract chickadees, common redpolls, juncos, doves, finches, goldfinches, grosbeaks, nuthatches, pine siskins, titmice, and woodpeckers.

Nyjer - These lightweight, tiny seeds are a favorite of goldfinches. Put nyjer seeds in a hanging feeder with tiny holes so the small seeds won’t get bl own away. Nyjer also attracts redpolls, juncos, doves, indigo bunting, and pine siskin.

Safflower - These white seeds are slightly smaller than black sunflower seeds. Because they are bitter, grackles, blue jays, starlings - and squirrels - don’t like them. However, they do attract doves, purple finches, chickadees, titmice, and downy woodpeckers.

White millet - Good for scattering on the ground, white millet attracts ground feeders such as juncos, sparrows, indigo buntings, towhees, and mourning doves.

Cracked corn - Popular with ground feeders, cracked corn appeals to doves, crows, jays, sparrows, juncos, and towhees. Avoid

DOWNTOWN KNOXVILLE

getting finely cracked corn as it’s vulnerable to rot and can quickly turn to mush. When choosing a bird seed mix, pay attention to the ingredients list on the package. Bird seed is required by law to list ingredients in order of content. Some cheaper mixes have filler seeds such as wheat, red milo, red millet, or “assorted grain products.” Most backyard birds won’t eat those, and your seed mix could end up wasted on the ground. Visit eLivingtoday.com to learn more about making your backyard an oasis for birds of all kinds.

Poppy: SPRING’S DANCING BEAUTY

BY WHITNEY HALE, EDUCATION COORDINATOR, UT GARDENS, KNOXVILLE

FOR THE PAST 6,000 years, humans have cultivated poppy flowers, including Papaver somniferum, which is one of several species of poppies. They have been at the center of tales both good and bad and somewhere in between. Through it all, poppies have remained a favorite of gardeners around the world.

Opium (or bread seed) poppies are a winter-sown annual in the United States and are hardy in USDA Zones 3-8. Though sometimes difficult to establish, poppies grow best in full sun island beds and borders. The scattering of seeds over a mulched bed or bare soil in bleak December is an act of hope for the coming year. Uncovered (but lightly raked in), the tiny seeds will germinate in the cold and will burst forth in the warmth of spring, growing three to four feet tall by May, with their garish petals flitting in the breeze. As balmy spring turns to blazing summer, the petals drop and the seed pod devel ops, eventually spreading the seeds for next year’s crop. From ancient Mesopotamian civilizations to today, poppies have been grown to produce opium, a narcotic that has many medicinal uses includ ing pain relief and cough suppression. Migration and globalization brought poppies to the United States, where they have become a regular part of American life. Here, you can eat lemon poppy seed muffins or reap the medical benefits of poppies in medication from your pharmacy. These plants have been tied to human cultivation for

thousands of years; just think of the stories their ancestors could tell. Become part of their multifaceted history by growing poppies in your own garden. Direct sowing is the best way to plant them since they can be difficult to transplant. We recommend that you mix the seeds with a cup of sand or potting soil to help evenly distribute the tiny seeds over your garden bed. Once established, they may volunteer through re-seeding.

If you plant multiple colors of poppies, they can cross and produce a unique mix of colors the following year. After the petals have dropped, you can cut the stems and use the seed pods in flower arrangements, too. Look in seed catalogs and your favorite seed providers to source single and double-bloom cultivars in colors including true red, pink, and purple. You’ll attract pollinators and have a great cut flower in your garden, too.

Plan to visit UT Gardens locations in Knoxville and Jackson during the spring to see bright poppies dancing in the breeze.

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.

FGardening in February

EBRUARY IS a month of mixed signals. One day it’s warm enough to believe spring has sprung early; the next, you wake up to a dusting of snow. For gardeners, February is less about digging in the dirt and more about getting ready for the season ahead.

Tidy Up, Don’t Tear Up

If the weather cooperates and the ground isn’t saturated, February is a good time to clean up garden beds. Remove fallen branches and any obvious debris. This is not the moment for aggressive soil work! East Tennessee clay does not appreciate being handled when wet, and it will remember the insult all year. If the soil sticks to your boots, step away.

Leave perennial crowns, hollow stems, and ornamental grasses alone for now as they’re still offering protection to beneficial insects. You can trim them back later in March when new growth begins to show. Really tall stems can be cut back to 18”-24”, but don’t shear them off at the ground. Not only are good bugs sleeping in there, but the coverage also protects the tender crown of growth at the base. Think editing, not erasing.

Pruning with Purpose

February is prime time for pruning many trees and shrubs while they’re dormant. Apples, peaches, blueberries, and grape vines benefit from winter pruning to improve structure and air circulation. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and remember - you can always take more off later, but you can’t put it back on!

Roses - especially hybrid teas and floribundas - can also be pruned now. Use sharp pruners and aim for a vase shape 24”(ish) tall. Keep 5 or so main branches and take out anything growing toward the inside, crossing, or smaller than a pencil. If unsure, Google or YouTube how to do it.

Other summer blooming shrubs such as butterfly bushes, crape myrtles, panicle hydrangeas, gardenias, and Rose of Sharon can also be pruned now. Remember, no crape murder! You are performing surgery, so educate yourself and sharpen your tools. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs like azaleas, forsythia, and hydrangeas that bloom on old wood. Flower buds are already set, and cutting now sacrifices spring blooms. The internet can be your friend - make sure to look at instructions for Zones 6 and 7. Our northern and southern neighbors may have a different schedule.

Soil: Test Before You Treat

February is an excellent time to test your soil. A basic soil test will tell you pH levels and nutrient needs, helping you avoid the common mistake of adding fertilizer just because it feels productive. Many East Tennessee soils are naturally acidic, which works well

BY LISA GRUGIN

for blueberries and azaleas but may need adjustment for vegetables. Soil testing kits are available at your local UT Extension office, or get fancy ones online. Also, remember that the soil can vary in different parts of your yard! My backyard is acidic and my front yard is alkaline, so don’t assume it’s all the same.

Once you have results, you can plan amendments for spring. Lime, sulfur, compost, and organic matter all take time to work into the soil, so knowing what you need now puts you ahead.

Start Seeds - But Not a Jungle

Seed catalogs are at their most persuasive in February, and restraint is a valuable gardening skill. Do you really need 400 tomato seeds? The average last frost date here falls around mid April, which means most warm-season vegetables like tomatoes and peppers should not be started indoors until late February or early March. Onions, leeks, and cool-season greens can be started now, as can flowers like petunias and snapdragons.

Planting your own seeds is very much trial and error. Keep in mind that local garden centers - not to be confused with big box stores

- have a good selection of starter plants and folks that can explain how to grow them!

Plan with Realism (and Hope)

February is when garden plans look perfect on paper. Take advantage of that optimism, but temper it with realism. Remember how I suggested you track your successes and failures? Think about what did well and what didn’t, whether we’re talking about shrubs, perennials, annuals, vegetables, or herbs, and adjust accordingly.

Watch the Weather, Protect the Plants

Warm spells in February often coax bulbs and perennials into early growth. Some of my bulbs are already up and going! A severe, sudden cold snap can damage tender new shoots so cover vulnerable plants if temperatures drop. I use pinestraw or evergreen branches left over from Christmas to cover mine.

A Month of Preparation

February gardening is about patience and preparation. You’re laying the groundwork for the busy months ahead. Do the quiet work now: clean, prune, test, plan. Spring will arrive whether you’re ready or not, but it’s much more enjoyable when you are.

Escape the Winter Doldrums with a Tropical Paradise ORCHIDS

Nashville • Through March 8

IN

ITS 8th year, Orchids at Cheekwood has become a winter tradition. Discover the beauty of orchids as these remarkable flowers take center stage throughout the Cheekwood Mansion. This year’s design will primarily feature yellow and white orchids with hints of orange. Floral arrangements and installations adorn the Foyer, Morning Room, and Dining Room as well as orchid chandeliers of various heights in the Loggia.

This showstopping floral display will be presented in conjunction with orchid-themed adult education classes.

For more information on all upcoming events and to reserve tickets, visit Cheekwood.org.

New Exhibitions Opening

Emporium Center February 6

THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville February 6-28. 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.

time. place. Curated by Ashley Layendecker in the Upper Gallery time. place. examines how geographic and temporal contexts shape artistic practice, how creative relationships influence the ways we work, and how shared consciousness emerges within artistic communities. The exhibition considers how artists are formed not only by where and when they work, but by the people who surround, challenge, and support them. time. place. features artists who are all Tennessee-based, Tennesseeborn, or deeply influenced by this region with strong ties to Knoxville and Nashville. Curated by Ashley Layendecker, each featured artist has had a personal impact on her journey as an artist and curator working within these communities. The proverb “iron sharpens iron” serves as a guiding framework for this exhibition: When two pieces of iron are rubbed together, both are refined and sharpened, and the saying speaks to mutually beneficial relationships grounded in accountability, encouragement, and constructive feedback.

Featured artists will respond to a prompt addressing the significance of time and place within their practice as well as the work presented. These reflections will be shared throughout the exhibition’s run and discussed further during an artist panel on the closing weekend during Big Ears Festival. (Date and time forthcoming.) time. place. will be on exhibition February 6 through March 29.

Ashley Layendecker is an Independent Curator and the Director at Red Arrow Gallery in Nashville. Since joining Red Arrow in 2018, she has curated more than 60 exhibitions in Nashville, New York, Mexico City, Chicago, and Miami.

National Juried Exhibition of 2026 in the Lower Gallery

The Arts & Culture Alliance’s 20th annual National Juried Exhibition features selected works from 37 artists throughout the region. The National Juried Exhibition provides a forum for artists to compete on a regional scale and display their highest quality work. The exhibition encompasses all styles and genres from both emerging and established artists working in a variety of media such as wood, photography, oil, glass, fiber, paper, and more.

Based in Chattanooga, juror Christina Renfer Vogel holds an MFA from the Massachusetts College of Art and a BFA from Tyler School of Art, Temple University. Rooted firmly in perceptual painting, her work reflects direct encounters and everyday exchanges in her

environment. Recent still life paintings explore intersections between work, life, and the studio. Her work has been featured at numerous museums as well as solo exhibitions. She is a member of Zeuxis, an association of still life painters. Vogel serves as a professor of painting and drawing at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

Lisa Kurtz: Fired Up! in the Display Case

Lisa Kurtz throws and hand builds her pottery and often integrates both methods to create her functional pottery, sculpture, and clay wall art. In this exhibition, Kurtz’s work includes pieces fired in all types of kilns to show the results of different atmospheric effects on the clay and her glazes. She often uses fabric saved from her grandfather’s tailor shop to imprint texture and designs onto her work. She also uses found objectsrocks, shells, vintage jewelry - to add to her clay wall pieces. This connection to her past is a major source of inspiration for her work.

Artist statement excerpts: My goal is to infuse my work with the peaceful feelings that water worn rocks, landscape, and waves give to me. My favorite part of working in this medium is that people can use and/or enjoy my work in their everyday lives.

Farhad Naimy: Fluid Art in the Atrium

Farhad Naimy trained professionally as an engineer and later brought his passion for architecture, design, and creative use of space to custom-built multi-million-dollar homes in San Francisco and other Pacific Northwest cities. His love of the Eastern Tennessee mountains and his family brought him back to Knoxville, where he draws from his international experiences to create art. Naimy is captivated with Fluid Art because of his deep connection to nature and color. In both there is infinite variety, and like love, infinite expressions. No matter how many techniques he masters or visions he creates, there is always an element of chance, change, and surprise.

Katie Dirnbauer: The Things We Carry in the Atrium

While her primary focus has been on silversmithing, Dirnbauer has recently expanded her art to include a diverse range of mediums. Her current body of work integrates photography, jewelry design, and sculpture, which all function to complement her exploration of encaustic art. This latest series delves into profound themes of memory, trauma, grief, and healing. By openly confronting her own trauma, she hopes to elevate the conversation around healing and vulnerability, inviting viewers to engage with it in a meaningful way.

The exhibitions will be on display at the Emporium Center, located at 100 S. Gay Street in Knoxville. The Emporium is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm, with additional hours of 5 to 7 pm on Fridays for Gallery 1010 openings. Call 865-523-7543 or visit Knox Alliance.com for more information.

Share the Love Week: Delivering Hope Across East Tennessee

AS WE LOOK back on 2025, we’re thrilled to share some incredible milestones. Last year, Random Acts of Flowers Knoxville made 20,300 deliveries to a wide variety of healthcare facilities including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, senior care facilities, pediatric facilities, at-home health organizations, and more - all throughout East Tennessee. We welcomed several new healthcare partners, expanded our reach, and ensured that even more patients experienced the emotional lift that flowers provide. These achievements were made possible thanks to the unwavering support of our volunteers, donors, and community partners.

February is a month dedicated to love, and at Random Acts of Flowers, we believe love is best expressed through kindness and compassion. In honor of National Cancer Prevention Month, we’re proud to continue our February tradition of the Share the Love Week initiative. This special week is all about bringing joy and encouragement to individuals in healthcare facilities in need, particularly those battling cancer diagnoses and treatments.

During Share the Love Week, our volunteers will create and deliver hundreds of beautiful bouquets to patients across East Tennessee. Each bouquet is meticulously crafted from recycled flowers generously donated by local grocery stores, events, weddings, and funerals. These blooms are more than just flowers; they are a message of hope and a reminder that no one is alone in their journey.

Looking ahead, we invite you to join us in making Share the Love Week a success. Whether you donate flowers, volunteer your time, or contribute financially, your involvement helps us continue our mission: delivering hope and encouragement through flowers.

Together, we can ensure that February remains celebration of love, compassion, and community. Let’s share the love - one bouquet at a time.

Don’t forget to follow along on our social media pages for updates, stories, and ways to get involved!

For more information about Share the Love Week or to get involved, call 865-633-9082 or visit RandomActsofFlowers.org.

Not only is Everything Knoxville delivered in-home by the U.S. Postal Service to hundreds of area neighborhoods, we now reach new Knox County homeowners, too. Knoxville is growing - with new homes, new neighborhoods, and new homeowners arriving daily. In response to this growth, we have expanded our distribution to include these new upper-income residents. Our unique distribution reaches 3x the households of other local publicationsproviding maximum exposure for our advertisers.

As a trusted resource for more than 19 years, Everything Knoxville continues to point customers toward reputable, reliable local businesses.

Interested in learning more about how our services and new advertiser special offers can help your business grow?

Contact Kendra at info@EverythingKnoxville.com or call 865.640.3015.

Business Note

BY BRETT CAFFERTY

The Importance of Making the Call, Part 2

LAST WEEK I was fortunate enough to have lunch out twiceonce with an old friend and once with a new friend. I also got my fix of a Mexican food lunch as we just happened to have that both days! My friends are both professionals who work from home, and each one brought up how this affects them socially and with their connection to others.

One is a family man with grown children and a wife that works outside the home, so his days are pretty solitary. He lamented a bit on not having much face-to-face interaction with the “outside world.” The other friend is single and has worked remotely since the Covid days. A recent decision by HQ to “work from the office half the time” has turned out to be better than he had expected, as he is actually enjoying working with others in person again.

A recent sermon I heard referred to this as “the age of loneliness” in our culture. We hear about, and many of us experience, this increasing trend of feeling disconnected

from others. Several statistics were given, and the one that stuck with me was that 70% of men state they don’t see friends enough.

I belong to a men’s group at church that meets every week, and although we don’t often talk about this, it seems very true. We may have a hundred acquaintances - colleagues, suppliers, customers, golf buddies, etc. - but the list of real friends is often very short, if there is a list at all.

This brought me to think about my own circles and the effort I have put into friend relationships throughout my adult life - and I realized it hadn’t been a lot. In today’s world, people move across the country, change jobs frequently, and don’t have “neighborhood friends” as much as I remember when I was growing up. With a job transfer to Knoxville, managing a small business, and raising our growing family, there didn’t seem to be the time or capacity for much else.

It becomes easier to keep your head down and do the things that “need to be done,” but in reality, we are made to be relational and need each other more than we are sometimes willing to admit. Men know that we gain strength from camaraderie and benefit from shared experiences, but it can be hard to make (or take) the time and give the effort to keep and make friends.

- Travis Ferguson East Tennessee Kidney Foundation

A month ago, out of the blue, I got a call - my childhood friend, Ron, decided to take action and initiate a phone call. Although we haven’t spoken in 20+ years, we had a great conversation about the old times in our Michigan neighborhood. During the call, we came to realize that we had both lost our parents in the past few years and had both lost our older (and only) brothers in the past year. Talk about common ground. It was great to catch up, learn what has happened in each of our lives in the past decades… and a surprising “boost” that we were able to pick up and just talk after all this time. He took the first step to make the call, and it really floored me (for the good!), and I now plan to make the trip to visit him this year.

I think the lesson is simple - get out, step forward, engage, and be willing to invest time and energy in other men. You’ll both benefit. I work mainly from home and have gotten far too complacent and comfortable in my “lone wolf” routines. As always, this is also a reminder for me to take the initiative, reach out, and keep up with others. You never know how much it could mean to someone to hear from you. So again, do the right thing - make the call.

The Great Smoky Mountains can be beautiful any time of year! This wonderful picture of Cherokee Orchard Road was taken in early December. Who’s ready for a drive through a winter wonderland?

Be sure to check for current road closures and park alerts before making plans and setting out. This information can be found at NPS.gov/GRSM. Don’t forget that Parking Passes are now required for any vehicle parking for more than 15 minutes. Day, Week, and Annual Passes can be purchased at any of the National Park Visitor Centers or online at SmokiesLife.org. Parking Passes must be physically displayed on the dashboard of your vehicle.