Everything Knoxville March 2026 Edition

MARCH

BUT WAIT… there’s more! You know that for more than 20 years, CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee has a stellar reputation for their excellent residential and commercial painting, but did you know they can do so much more? From wallpaper removal, to deck construction, to crown molding installation, CertaPro is your one-stop-shop for repairs, refinishing, AND interior and exterior painting.

13 Myrick Lighting & Design

Why most outdoor lighting gets it wrong.

14 APC Financial Planning

Learn how to make the most of your Health Savings Account.

17 Louisville Mercantile

Browse and be inspired at this local “happy place” shop.

24 Traveler’s Caffe

Why spring is the perfect time to book your summer vacation.

27 ShelfGenie®

Get the most out of your kitchen.

COMING OFF of a very busy end of 2025, beginning of 2026traveling almost every weekend can be quite exhausting! They say that “burnout” is not simply being overly busy with need-to-do tasks but being underly busy with things that you actually want/like to do. It’s the balance that’s key it seems.

So I am trying to adopt the YOLO (You Only Live Once) approach this year. Not in a reckless sense but definitely more intentional. I have felt like I was being swept along with the tide - just doing the next thing that needed to be done. I would like to find my footing, to be more deliberate with my activities and not just following perceived obligations, you know?

Last year it was decided, with our dear friends from SC, to tackle the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. We had all been on bits and pieces but wanted to travel it a section at a time in order to complete the entire roadway. The mountains are my happy place, and I love a good

road trip, so I am excited to be planning our next leg for this spring. Score one for YOLO!

Additionally, one of my favorite singing groups is doing a world tour this year. The first one in many years, so as a super fan I am thrilled! I already have tickets to two different U.S. locations and am really excited about exploring the cities where I will be - like mini vacations! Another score for YOLO.

And not one, but two of my daughter’s best growing-up buddies are getting married this year. One is this spring and the other in the fall. I love weddings (as long as I don’t have to plan them!) because they are so life affirming, hopeful, and fun. Ahhh love!

I realize that writing all of this has just been a pep talk for myself, but it worked! I have events planned - that I am looking forward to - and spread out through most of this year. Please join me for a year of YOLO!

Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor

Susan Cafferty Publisher + Editor

Brett Cafferty Marketing + Operations

Kendra Menendez Editor + Administration

Meredith Hancock Design + Production

Contact Information Post Office Box 24532 Knoxville, TN 37933

865.640.3015

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Expert Painting…and So Much More

AS MANY OF you may know, CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee has been painting homes and businesses in our area for more than 20 years. Their familiar logo-wrapped vehicles have been seen in numerous neighborhood driveways, as well as the UT Vols practice facility and the base of the iconic Sunsphere. Their extensive capabilities, breadth of experience, and business longevity can be attributed to the company’s certainty promise of a “job well done.” This promise comes directly from a consistent presentation of their job expectationsfrom required supplies to project timeline - making CertaPro Painters a go-to for many residential and commercial property improvements.

What you may not know is that CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee does so much more outside of painting itself. They always address wall and ceiling repairs (with wallpaper removal and lead/asbestos testing if necessary) first so that sur face problems are fixed before actual painting begins. Along with reliable paint crews, CertaPro also has carpentry crews ready to handle larger repair issues both inside and outside your home. Please see the comprehensive list of ser vices on the following page and read about a few recent projects that may open your eyes to all that CertaPro can do for you. Co-owners Devin Taylor and Ben Johnson strive for every customer to become a “customer for life” by offering dedicated project managers, consistent guidelines, and work reviews to ensure that CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee delivers on their promises.

Contractor Drops the Ball… CertaPro Picks It Up

Homeowner Mark Davis now truly knows the meaning of “professionalism.” After having new flooring installed, Mark was told that the contractor would be able to complete the upgrade by installing trim and adding a set of stained doors - but unfortunately, the “one contractor and done” did not work out. Thankfully, CertaPro had already quoted the job and were able to step in to finish the remodel. Mark was impressed with their communication and work manship. Based on CertaPro’s “excellent professionalism,” he recommends them to friends and family who love the home’s transformation. “We are very

happy with the end result,” said Mark. “The new woodwork and doors make a huge difference. It feels like a new home!”

Exterior Complete… Time to Go Inside

When Trey Cain, one of the Managing Partners of the Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, first began updates to the 1980s era hotel, the exterior paint was the refresh he knew the property needed. CertaPro Painters of East Tennessee’s Commercial Business Developer, Crystal Wicker, helped get the job done. The project involved multiple colors over a large building (along with incorporating changes, all within the original timeframe), and Trey and his other managing partners agree that the end result “looks fantastic.”

• Painting and Staining - Interior and Exterior

• Kitchen Cabinet Painting

• Interior Trim and Crown Molding Installation

• Drywall & Ceiling - Repair and Retexturing

• Carpentry and Repair - Interior and Exterior

• Deck Construction

• Porch Re-Screening

• Wallpaper Removal

• Door and Wood Stripping and Refinishing

Trey appreciated how communicative the whole team was throughout the work - even sending daily email updates on progress. He found that CertaPro “worked quickly and professionally. The ceilings look brand new, and the barn door installations have transformed the look of those rooms. I would highly recommend CertaPro without any hesitation. They do a great job!”

So when the decision to continue the renovation on the hotel’s interior was made, Ramsey Hotel was relieved to find that CertaPro was experienced and ready to achieve these next steps also. The interior upgrades called for two specific projects - One: removing the dated popcorn ceilings in the hallways and guest rooms that required covering everything - carpet, drapes, furniture, etc. - in protective plastic, and two: installing more than a hundred sliding mirrored barn doors in place of the present hinged doors. Trey was impressed with the thorough estimating process. “By the time we first met, CertaPro had already done some research about how to approach the projects and came in prepared to discuss the nuances,” he said.

Another Project… Another Success

Claire Borsari knew exactly who to call when she was ready to add fresh exterior paint to her 1915 Craftsman home. She has had “excellent” experiences with CertaPro on previous projects. With the age of the home, some carpentry and repair would be necessary before painting could begin, and she knew they would provide the quality workman-

The best part of working communication and punctuality are exemI especially appreciate that there’s a specific contact person for each project and that person always answers (cheerfully!) when I call and takes charge of finding the answer to

The completed project has the home’s facade structurally restored and repainted, enhancing the beauty and charm of the Craftsman-style house. Claire is delighted. “I love the dark red accent color around the window frames. CertaPro met our high expectations once again!”

Chase away the Winter blues

By Dressing Up Your Windows

Biltmore Announces Luminere

An all-new outdoor evening light & sound experience from March 26 - October 18

ONMARCH 26, Biltmore will debut Luminere , an outdoor evening experience that illuminates the estate’s historic grounds with light, imagery, and sound. Offered on select evenings through October 18, Luminere is a captivating new way to explore Biltmore as day turns into dusk, with sunset mountain views and starlit skies.

Luminere is the first outdoor evening experience Biltmore has created in its 130year history. Made in collaboration with the acclaimed experiential design studio Klip Collective, Luminere reimagines the façade of Biltmore House and the estate’s renowned gardens as a dreamscape of color, motion, sound, and storytelling, marking a bold new era of evening experiences at Biltmore.

A New Chapter in Biltmore Experiences

Upon nightfall, guests will embark on a self-guided journey through outdoor settings, each augmented by light, moving imagery, and sound. Featured areas include Biltmore House, the Italian Garden, the Pergola, the Shrub Garden, the Walled Garden, a treescape, and the Conservatory. Through a series of storied projections

on the front of Biltmore House, milestones in the estate’s history will unfold, from its monumental construction to meaningful moments for the Vanderbilt family, offering guests a deeper connection to the past and enduring spirit of the estate.

“In a year defined by resilience and renewal, we’re thrilled to introduce Luminere,” said Chase Pickering, vice president of guest experience and great-great-grandson of Biltmore’s founder George Vanderbilt. “My family has always believed in preserving the past while embracing the future. With Luminere, we’ve created something entirely new. It honors our legacy while inviting our

guests to see the estate through a lens of wonder and creativity.”

What to Expect at Luminere

• Evening outdoor light and projection displays set to a custom musical score

• Seasonal scenes inspired by Biltmore’s architecture, landscapes, and legacy

• Original musical score composed by Julian Grefe featuring the Asheville Symphony; includes select recordings captured inside the historic Biltmore House

• Culinary offerings such as artisan picnics on the grounds, craft beverages served in the gardens, and curated menus in estate restaurants

• Exclusive guided tour of Biltmore House (select ticket types)

“Using Biltmore House and its iconic gardens as our canvas, we’ve created a visual and emotional journey that honors the estate’s history and natural surroundings,” said Ricardo Rivera, creative director and founder of Klip Collective. “We’re telling stories with light in a way that stirs the senses.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Biltmore.com/luminere.

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

Fixing What Homeowners Live With Every Day

MOST KITCHENS LOOK fine at a glance. Then you try to cook.

Drawers jam. Cabinets hide more than they reveal. Pantries turn into daily scavenger hunts. You waste time, lose patience, and somehow the one thing you need is always buried behind something you don’t.

Homeowners invest time and money into their kitchens yet still end up fighting them every morning and every night. Whether it’s outdated cabinets, wasted space, or daily clutter, something just isn’t working.

Jason Smith has seen this pattern for years.

Jason Smith

Growing up working in his family’s home-building business and later serving as a home appliance product manager, Jason studied kitchens from both sides - how they’re built and how families actually use them. One truth kept surfacing: Many kitchens simply don’t function the way real life demands.

So he brought Art of Drawers to East Tennessee with one clear mission: Stop making people adapt to their kitchens. Start making kitchens adapt to people.

Art of Drawers specializes in custom drawer systems, pantry solutions, and cabinet refacing. Drawers are built from solid wood, professionally installed, and backed by a lifetime warranty and the 100% Elation Guarantee. For homeowners who like their layout but not their cabinets, refacing delivers a dramatic transformation without the cost, mess, or disruption

“I didn’t realize how much frustration I was living with until it was gone.”

of a full remodel.

What truly separates Art of Drawers is the process. Every in-home consultation starts with listening. How do you cook? How do you shop? What frustrates you every single day? Solutions are designed around real behavior, not trends or templates, because organization isn’t about looking nice - it’s about living easier.

One recent homeowner put it simply: “I didn’t realize how much frustration I was living with until it was gone. I unload groceries once now instead of reshuffling everything. The drawers work for us, and the kitchen finally feels calm.”

As founder and CEO Allan Young explains, “Jason represents exactly why we built Art of Drawers. He understands how homeowners actually live, he cares deeply about quality, and he chose this business to make a real difference. East Tennessee families are in very good hands.”

Today, Art of Drawers of East Tennessee is building a local team dedicated to helping homeowners stop fighting their kitchens and start enjoying them. If your kitchen could work better - in how it looks, how it functions, or how it feels day to day - you don’t have to live with it. Schedule your complimentary design consultation and see how much better life feels when your kitchen finally works for you.

Art of Drawers 865.895.5455 ArtofDrawers.com

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

The Bassmaster Classic Returns to Knoxville

THE SUPER BOWL of Bass Fishing is making its way back to one of the most electrifying destinations in the sport. The 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic will return to Knoxville for the third time on March 13-15.

With competition set on the Tennessee River’s Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes, daily weigh-ins will take place at ThompsonBoling Arena at Food City Center. The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo, featuring more than 200 exhibitors, will be held at the Knoxville Convention Center and World’s Fair Exhibition Hall, offering more than 250,000 square feet of event space. Knoxville will once again serve as the event’s host.

“We are thrilled to return to the site of two of our most suc cessful Classics in history,” said Chase Anderson, B.A.S.S. CEO. “East Tennessee fully embraces the Classic for what it truly isa celebration of the sport of bass fishing. The fan experience in Knoxville is second to none, with all event venues within walking distance. With our ever-growing global fanbase, we expect the 2026 Classic to be even bigger and more exciting.”

The 2026 Bassmaster Classic will feature 58 of the world’s top bass anglers, who will earn their spots through the Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, Bassmaster College Classic Bracket, and the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship. These elite compet itors will battle for a $300,000 first-place prize and a total purse of more than $850,000.

The 2023 Bassmaster Classic set a new attendance record with 163,914 fans, generating an economic impact of $35.5 million Knoxville and East Tennessee. Additionally, the event gener ated $2.85 million in state and local tax revenue, with attendees booking 31,525 hotel room nights across Knox County. The Classic also supported 12,698 jobs throughout the event.

The Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes, covering approxi mately 30,000 acres, will once again provide anglers with a dynamic and competitive fishery. Competitors will also have access to waters upstream from Fort Loudoun Dam, extending to the Interstate 40 bridge on the Holston River and the Highway 168 bridge on the French Broad River.

Elite Series angler Jeff Gustafson knows the potential of these waters well. In 2023, he secured victory at the Bassmaster Classic by landing 42 pounds, 7 ounces of bass, becoming the first Canadian angler to win the championship and taking home the coveted Ray Scott Trophy and the $300,000 prize.

For more information, visit Bassmaster.com or VisitKnoxville.com. APR 11 |

18-19 |

APR 24-26 | DOGWOOD ARTS FESTIVAL

MAY 30 | MURALS & MUSIC FESTIVAL

Why Most Outdoor Lighting Gets It Wrong

BY HEATH MYRICK, OWNER OF MYRICK LIGHTING & DESIGN

AS SPRING APPROACHES

and homeowners begin thinking about landscaping, patios, and curb appeal, outdoor lighting often enters the conversation. Unfortunately, much of what we see installed today misses the mark.

Outdoor lighting isn’t about brightness. It’s about balance.

The most common mistake is over-lighting. When every tree, corner, and walkway is flooded with light, the result is harsh and distracting. Architecture loses

- revealing the structure, proportion, and character of your home. From there, landscape elements are added selectively to create depth and dimension. Darkness is not the enemy; it is part of good design. Shadow gives contrast. Contrast gives drama.

Another frequent issue is relying on temporary or low-quality fixtures. Solar lights and big-box systems often fail within a season or two, leading to inconsistent results and frustration. A properly designed low-voltage system, installed with longterm performance in mind, can last decades

curb appeal, improves safety, and extends the enjoyment of outdoor spaces - without calling attention to the fixtures themselves. The best lighting systems are noticed not because they are bright, but because they feel sophisticated and natural.

As we head into spring, this is the ideal time to evaluate your home’s exterior and consider how it looks after sunset. Let the professionals at Myrick Lighting & Design prepare the perfect lighting plan to transform not just how your property appears, but how it feels. Call us to book your per-

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.

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.

ILilou Brassiere

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.

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!

Browse & Be Inspired

MARCH IS FINALLY here, and with it comes that itch we all get to shake off winter by freshening things up. If you’ve been craving a little inspirationor just an excuse to get out and enjoy yourself - Louisville Mercantile is calling your name.

Tucked just a little off the beaten path (only 15 minutes from Kingston Pike at Pellissippi Pkwy), this locally owned shop has become a favorite “happy place” for many, and one visit is all it takes to understand why. “We want people to feel something the moment they walk through the door,” said owner Sylvia Davis. “Louisville Mercantile is meant to be a place where you can slow down, get inspired, and leave feeling better than when you arrived.” It’s a feeling the community clearly shares - Louisville Mercantile was recently nominated for “Small Business of the Year” in the Best of Blount Awards.

One of the things that makes Louisville Mercantile unique is their incorporation of carefully curated home décor and furniture consignment offerings. Every corner is thoughtfully pulled together with a mix of brand-new favorites and one-of-a-kind finds, which means no two visits ever feel the same. You’ll find a rotating selection of quality furniture pieces with character, stories, and plenty of life left in them - that also make beautifully useful displays! Since the selection is always changing, browsing becomes part of the fun. And if you have a quality piece you’re ready to pass along, the team is always happy to chat.

This March, step inside, take a look around, and see for yourself why Louisville Mercantile has become a favorite stop for so many. Stay up to date on events, workshops, new arrivals, and shop tours (plus their weekly Five Faves!) by following Louisville Mercantile on Facebook and Instagram.

Louisville Mercantile

2801 Topside Road Louisville, TN 37777

865.724.3195

LouisvilleMercantile.com

Make Your Home More Loveable with a Custom Wardrobe

BY CARRIE MCCONKEY, CARRIEMCCONKEY.COM

WHAT’S THE BEST way to treat yourself this spring? Invest in a home upgrade that will have you blooming! With 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.

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.

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

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 storage match!

Closets by McKenry 201 Center Park Drive, #1070, Knoxville, TN 37922 865.249.6382

ClosetsByMcKenry.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?

This is a slam dunk! Stop fretting and use Shelf Help to make your kitchen back pain free, organized, attractive, classy and the envy of all who have cabinets where they need to have a pet left-handed orangutang to reach that “impossible to get” pot in the back. In addition, your spouse will think you have an MBA by purchasing quality products at a remarkably competitive price.

— Jerry Fox, Loudon

Shelf Help installed pull-outs in all my cabinets, both kitchen and bath. Their installers are gentlemen and kept me informed on delivery and installation dates. Honest, friendly, and professional. I definitely recommend them!

— Barbara H., Tellico Village

Shelf Help did an excellent job in helping my kitchen’s ease of use. The pull-out drawers in my pantry area are great to easily reach items. They were efficient, courteous, and went above and beyond to help with my older cabinets.

— Karen G., Farragut

INSIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS &

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 15). 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.

POPES AT MEADOW VIEW

The new Terraform Terrariums are the easiest, no-care way to bring nature to any indoor space. These self-contained ecosystems thrive without pruning, watering, or fertilizing, making them foolproof options for plant-lovers of all ages. Great for gifts, décor, offices, classrooms, dorm rooms, and more, they’re sure to spark joy wherever you put them. Available at Popes at Meadow View, 9885 US-11 in Lenoir City, 865-986-0157, PopesGardenCenter.com.

MAKER EXCHANGE

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

These charming, one-of-a-kind watercolor paintings by Mark Schaefer (yes, that Mark Schaefer - globally-recognized keynote speaker, educator, business consultant, author, and ARTIST), a Knoxville native, who paints lovely regional birds, landscapes, and more. Many delightful original Schaefer paintings that complement any décor are available at Louisville Mercantile, 2801 Topside Road in Louisville, 865.724.3195, LouisvilleMercantile.com.

HARB'S CARPETING & ORIENTAL RUGS

For almost 100 years, Harb’s has offered some of the most beautiful artisan handmade rugs from around the world, four large showrooms under one roof - a downtown treat to see! With the largest inventory of beautiful area rugs in East Tennessee, including modern, contemporary, and traditional, available in all price ranges. Harb’s Carpeting & Oriental Rugs, 608 N Broadway in Knoxville, 865.252.7562, HarbsRugs.com.

PROVISIONS OUTFITTERS & BOUTIQUE

The hat that gives back is now available! Each hat you buy helps feed a local family in need; 10% of their profit is given to our state’s local food banks. Stop by and check out their new store located at 11110 Kingston Pike, Suite 150 in Farragut (by Sam & Andy’s West), 865.288.0939.

Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Book Your Summer Family Vacation

BY ANNETTE MOREJON, OWNER OF TRAVELER’S CAFFE

PARENTS, I GET IT - summer can feel like a million miles away when you’re juggling school schedules, work, and daily chaos. But here’s a little secret: Spring is actually the perfect time to start planning your summer getaway. Booking in March or April means better prices, more choices, and less stress when the sunny season finally arrives.

Grab the Best Options

Before They’re Gone

Summer is everyone’s favorite travel season, which means flights, hotels, and family-friendly resorts fill up fast. By planning in spring, you can snag the flights

you actually want, connecting rooms that fit your family, and those resorts with the water slides - or beach access - that your kids will rave about. You’ll also be able to reserve experiences that make your vacation extra special, from cooking classes in Europe to character dining at Disney, all while catching early-bird deals that save you money and stress.

More Flexibility, Less Worry

Booking early isn’t just about snagging the good stuff - it’s about giving yourself breathing room. You’ll have time to plan thoughtfully, pick the right excursions, coordinate transportation, and make sure passports or visas

are ready. With a little springtime planning, your summer vacation won’t just happen - it will feel seamless, enjoyable, and actually fun for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Destinations

That Everyone Will Love

Domestic Favorites:

• National Parks: Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Acadia

• Beaches: Florida Gulf Coast, Hilton Head, Outer Banks, California Coast

• Mountains: Colorado Rockies, Blue Ridge Mountains, Montana

• Nature Escapes: Niagara Falls, Finger Lakes, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine

• Theme Parks: Orlando, Southern California International Adventures:

• Europe: Italy, France, Spain, Ireland, Greece, Croatia (think culture, history, amazing food, and scenic train rides)

• Canada: Banff, Jasper, Vancouver, Montreal/Quebec City (nature and culture close to home)

• Caribbean & Mexico: Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Riviera Maya (all-inclusive family-friendly beaches)

• Alaska Cruises: Glacier views, wildlife encounters, scenic train rides, and family-friendly excursions

Make Vacation Planning Actually Fun

Let’s be real - planning a family vacation can feel overwhelming. That’s why I help families like yours take the stress out of summer travel. From picking the perfect destination and accommodations to arranging unique experiences and handling all the logistics, my goal is simple: You focus on making memories while I take care of the rest. With a little planning now, your summer adventure will be smooth, unforgettable, and full of smiles (for kids and parents alike!).

“Let’s make your family’s dream vacation a reality - stress-free, thoughtfully planned, and full of magical memories.”

The Fleenor Security Difference

FLEENOR

SECURITY SYSTEMS

is proud to serve the Knoxville area as your local and trusted source for complete home security and automation. We have become one of the largest family-owned security companies in Tennessee, with offices in Johnson City and Knoxville.

What makes us different?

Many of our customers choose us after experiencing the frustration of having to call a 1-800 number out of state to request a service call, resolve billing, or find an answer to a simple question.

Since re-establishing our Knoxville office, hundreds of residential and business customers have again become part of the Fleenor family, and we value and appreciate your entrusting us to protect your family and property.

The 24/7 Fleenor central monitoring station is always on duty, and our Knoxville office is staffed with professionals who are familiar with your system, the neighborhoods where your home or business is located, and ready to help you.

EBENEZER ROAD

Ebenezer

Utilizing your own smartphone as your “command center,” our industry-leading smart technology enables you to control the lights, lock the doors, lower the thermostat when away from home, open and close the garage door, and even check in on cameras at your home to see if a package has arrived!

For added peace of mind, our business customers also have the same smartphone convenience with security system control, remote viewing of cameras, and the availability to be notified of any unusual activity.

Our local specialists are well-trained, experienced industry professionals who can evaluate, design, and install the right solution to meet your family’s needs.

Fleenor Security Systems provides residential and business security systems, fire system monitoring, cameras, monitoring, and home automation systems supported by our prompt, local service.

We invite you to experience the Fleenor family difference!

Get the Most Out of Your Kitchen

WE ALL WANT a beautiful kitchen, but a kitchen also needs to be a functional room where we cook, bake, and store essentials like food, supplies, and pots and pans. A functional kitchen has plenty of storage and is designed so you can quickly and easily find what you need and reach it.

ShelfGenie is a leader in making kitchens more useful

ShelfGenie designs, builds, and installs custom, glide-out shelves that pull out the full depth of your existing cabinets and pantries to maximize usable storage and increase organization and accessibility. More shelves can fit into an existing cabinet or pantry, you can access the entire shelf front to back, plus each shelf is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship and can hold up to 100 pounds, so you can load them up.

Our process begins and ends with the homeowner

Our design consultant will get to know your needs during our free, in-home consultation. Together, we will design a plan with your goals and needs in mind. The glide-out shelves are manufactured in our facility in Alabama to your exact specs. Our

licensed, professional installer will then install your order in one day. Finally, your designer will come by on a follow-up visit to ensure you’re completely 100% satisfied. Enjoy a more useful kitchen

Turn frustration with your kitchen into a joy. You can expect to increase your storage area by up to 50%, reduce wasted time looking for items, and avoid having to bend, twist, or reach into the backs of cabinets.

What our clients say

“ShelfGenie was the perfect solution to help me love my kitchen again. The designer and installer were wonderful and took the time to make sure it perfectly fit my family’s needs.”

- B.R., Knoxville

“We love the new shelves. They are truly life changing in the kitchen.” - R.K., Knoxville

“Great improvement to what I had and very happy with the people I worked with.” - S.O., Vonore

To learn more or to schedule your free consultation, call 865-409-1197 or visit ShelfGenie.com.

EMPOWERING YOUNG ADULTS

BY KAREN COPPOCK

REMEMBER

when

you got your first apartment? For many people, that happened in college or just out of school. Your family might have helped you move your twin bed from home, and Grandma contributed a couch from her living room. Other family and friends may have helped provide dishes, a table, household goods, and pantry supplies and helped you move in, perhaps with the incentive of a pizza dinner. But what if you had been in foster care or had been homeless?

a young man who’s aging out of foster care.’” After deciding to donate an unused love seat, she messaged to ask if he needed anything else. “And she said, ‘He needs everything. He literally has nothing.’” Denham and her husband donated more household items, and she posted for help on Facebook. Friends donated items and gift cards, and they were able to completely furnish his apartment within two days!

After delivering the items, his Compassion

young former foster child. Denham agreed and asked, “Who normally provides them with furniture and housewares?” And she said, ‘Nobody. They’re on their own.’” That eye-opening experience led her to start the 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2023.

Tracy Rose Denham, founder of Knoxville nonprofit First Foundations, Inc. (FF), recently learned more about the challenges facing young adults in those situationsand it started as a response to a Facebook Knoxville freecycle group post. “Someone posted, ‘I’m looking for a small love seat for

Since then, FF has helped more than 60 young adults. Its mission is to help empower young adults who are transitioning from foster care or homelessness to break the poverty cycle and realize their full potential as valued members of society. Local social services organizations like Compassion Coalition or Knoxville CAC’s Youth WINS find housing for the clients. Those case workers then refer prospective clients to FF, and the FF intake coordinator assesses each client’s needs. FF outfits their apartment with basic necessities (see sidebar) and coordinates with the case worker and client to help them move in.

Denham said they help clients move on the second Saturday morning of each month. She and FF volunteers meet at

“Too often, fear shapes the way people think about homelessness. But the truth is that young adults without housing are far more vulnerable than they are threatening. In fact, studies show people experiencing homelessness are 10 times more likely to be victims of violence than the general population. Our 18-24 year olds deserve safety, stability, and dignity - not stigma.”

- Tracy Rose Denham

EACH CLIENT RECEIVES

• A bed

• A love seat

• New bed and bathroom linens; new or lightly used household items like dishes, utensils, cookware, as needed

• A grocery store gift card; they can request a food basket from local food pantries if they run out of food

• Pantry staples bag - items like salt, pepper, catsup, cooking oil, paper goods like toilet paper and paper towels, plastic baggies, meal prep containers, and other basics

• First aid kit and basic OTC medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen

• Cleaning basket - laundry and dish detergent and other cleaning supplies

• Basic tool kit - hammer, screwdriver, pliers, plunger

the organization’s storage unit to retrieve donated and purchased items, and then they help the clients move into their new rentals that morning. FF’s website and Facebook page have more information about items that are needed. Although

they appreciate interest and donations, Denham asked that donors please consider the condition of the items. “Would you want your child to have this in their place now? We restore dignity here. We don’t believe in the fallacy of something’s better than nothing. We want to give them the best that we can.”

Although FF originally started as a furniture/household goods ministry, it has since expanded to provide more comprehensive support. FF provides classes to help mentor clients with “adulting” skills like budgeting and time management. Denham and other volunteers help clients model or work through interpersonal or relational skills like interviewing for a job or successfully resolving disagreements with roommates or coworkers. FF also helps connect clients to employment opportunities and training, as well as transportation to work when needed.

First Foundations’ motto of “fostering hope, furnishing dreams” inspires their success in helping young adults from challenging circumstances launch into full, successful lives. Per their website, more than 96% of their clients maintain permanent housing, have a 100% connection to community resources, and a 74% increase in positive relationships. For more information on how to help, please visit FirstFoundationsInc.org.

HOW TO HELP

• Financial donations

• Annual fundraisers like their Sleep Out campaign

• Restaurant or grocery store gift cards - if you have any that you know you won’t use, FF passes them along to clients

• Kroger Plus card - FF can be designated as your preferred charity

• KARM donations - if FF is listed as the designated charity, their clients can receive KARM gift cards

• Donations of love seats and household goods - please contact FF via their website or Facebook page to coordinate

• Volunteer - for more information visit FirstFoundationsInc.org

First Foundations young adult testimonial at RiverView Family Farm fundraiser.

Recycling

Dumpster

Construction

Sundays at My Grandmother’s

BY STEPHANIE FOLEY, SMOKY MOUNTAIN SCHOOL OF COOKING

GROWING

UP in the Appalachian region of Kentucky, Sunday afternoons always meant one thing in my grandmother’s kitchen: Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding. It was the kind of dessert that brought everyone to the table without being called twice. Aunts, uncles, cousins - all gathered close, spoons in hand, waiting for that warm dish to come straight from the oven. Laughter filled the room as the meringue rose tall and golden, and no one waited long before diving into that first

Old-Fashioned Banana

Serves: 6

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 25-30 minutes

Total time: 45-50 minutes

Ingredients:

Pudding

• 1/2 cup flour

• 2 cups sugar

• 3 cups milk

• 4 egg yolks

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 3 tablespoons sugar

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

3-4 bananas, sliced Vanilla wafers

Instructions:

To Make the Pudding

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

In a medium saucepan, whisk together flour, sugar, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly stir in 1/4 cup of the hot pudding mixture to temper the eggs. Mix well, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan. Continue cooking and stirring for about 3 more minutes, until thickened and smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.

In a small baking dish, layer sliced bananas and vanilla wafers. Pour half of the pudding over the layers. Add another layer of bananas and wafers, then top with the remaining pudding. If serving without meringue, top with crushed vanilla wafers. Otherwise, proceed with meringue.

To Make the Meringue

In a small bowl, mix sugar and cornstarch together.

In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating. Slowly add the sugar-cornstarch mixture, then the vanilla, beating until stiff peaks form.

Spread the meringue over the hot pudding, making sure it touches all edges to seal.

Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.

Serve warm, straight from the oven, with generous scoops that capture all the layers - creamy pudding, tender bananas, soft wafers, and golden meringue. This dessert is best enjoyed immediately, around a full table, with plenty of spoons and even more laughter. If you have leftovers , cover and refrigerate to enjoy later.

The Smoky Mountain School of Cooking & Gourmet Treats is owned and operated by Stephanie and Shawn Foley. They teach the art of Appalachian-inspired cooking in public and private hands-on cooking events as well as offer personal chef services. Their store at 1004 Parkway, Suite 301 in Gatlinburg offers signature jams, salsas, sauces, honeys, and a variety of sweet treats including artisan fudge in many wonderful flavors. Visit SmokyMountainSchoolofCooking.com to shop online and/or sign up for classes.

A.J. CROCE: Evolution, Legacy, and a Night at the Tennessee Theatre

IN CONCERT • TENNESSEE THEATRE • MARCH 14TH

WHEN A.J. CROCE takes the stage at Knoxville’s historic Tennessee Theatre on March 14, audiences won’t just be attending a concert. They’ll be stepping into a living, breathing musical conversation - one that bridges generations, styles, and deeply personal stories.

Croce’s acclaimed Croce Plays Croce tour began as a way to honor the 50th anniversary of his father’s music, but it has since grown into something far more dynamic.

“It’s always evolving,” said Croce. “There’s a limited number of songs of my father’s, but how I put them in, which songs are featured, which stories I tell to which songs - that’s changing.”

BY RANDY PATTERSON, BOOMEROCITY.COM

Unlike tightly scripted tribute shows, Croce’s performances are adjustable by design. “It’s really a flexible show. I have a lot of room to improvise,” he explained. “I have a beginning, a middle, and an end. And from that point, I’m able to just kind of work with the audience and feel what’s right.” The result? No two nights are the same.

Fans have noticed. “I’ve had people come 15 times to these shows,” he said with a laugh. “And every night’s different. Every night, we still take requests.”

Part of what makes the show so compelling is perspective. Jim Croce’s recording career famously lasted only about 18 months. A.J. often reflects on that contrast. “My father’s career was 18 months,” he noted. “There’s a point in the show where I let people know - it took 18 months to put this show together, let alone to write, record, and tour all of those songs.”

That brevity makes the endurance of those songs even more remarkable. “This amazing collection of songs were written in a really short period of time,” said Croce, “and they’re still played every day and people are still listening and requesting the music.”

Yet while he reverently preserves his father’s catalog, Croce brings his own musicianship and experience to the stage. “I’ve had a lot more time to practice than my dad,” he said candidly. Having come up through jazz and blues circles and inspired by artists like B.B. King, Ray Charles, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin, A.J. Croce brings a broader musical palette to the material.

“I will never take anything away from that (legacy),” he emphasized. “But you’ll also hear a level of musicianship that wasn’t there, because he hadn’t gotten there yet. I’m not trying to outdo him… I’m really bringing the legacy of two generations of American musicians to an audience and having a ton of fun while I’m doing it.”

That dual legacy also informs his latest album, Heart of the Eternal The record is anything but one note. Instead, it’s a stylistic buffet,

reflecting Croce’s deep love of music history. “I draw from a lot of influences,” he said. “From old jazz and blues and rock and roll and R&B and soul music and Latin music and New Orleans music… I’m a record collector. I love listening to music.”

Interestingly, nearly every track on the album began with music first. “All but one song, I composed the music first,” he explained. That approach shaped the tone and emotional direction of the record.

One standout collaboration is “Reunion,” co-written with John Oates. Croce recalls how it came together: “He came over to my place and told me this wonderful story about visiting his father, who had turned 100 years old. His father said, ‘I’m ready for my reunion. I’ve had a wonderful life. ’And I thought it was a beautiful idea for a song. So we sat down and wrote it right there.”

Croce’s studio process mirrors his live philosophy: prepared but open. “When I go into the studio, I have everything arranged,” he said. “But I leave room in every song for happy accidents.” Those spontaneous moments - whether a guitar line lands differently than expected or a last-minute shift from guitar to piano - often bring the recordings to life.

Ultimately, Croce’s mission is simple but profound. “I want things to be deceptively simple,” he said. “When someone listens the second time, they’re going to hear something else. And hopefully they hear something in the lyrics and something in the music that helps to make it special more than one time.”

That layered listening experience is precisely what Knoxville audiences can expect on March 14. In the ornate surroundings of the Tennessee Theatre, Croce will move seamlessly between the timeless songs that made his father a legend and the richly textured originals that define his own path.

It’s not nostalgia. It’s not imitation. It’s evolution - played without a net.

At press time, tickets for the Croce Plays Croce show were still available but selling fast. The full interview with A.J. Croce is available at Boomerocity.com, its YouTube channel, and on all podcast platforms.

Launched in 2009, Randy’s Boomerocity The Fan Experience has more than 500 positive, sincere, one-on-one interview conversations that show fans the true heart of the Baby Boomer generation of musicians, entertainers, and their associates, as well as today’s icons, influencers, and up-and-comers in music.

FOR 6K RUN & 1 MILE WALK

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 • 8 AM SOUTH KNOXVILLE

Lucky Kidney Run™ is a major fundraiser benefiting the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation. Join more than 300 walkers and runners to bring awareness to this “silent” disease and support those that suffer from kidney disease - 100% of funds raised stay right here in East Tennessee! Please support their local mission of improving the lives of East Tennesseans with kidney disease - prizes awarded to the top fundraising teams!

Visit ETkidney.org/events for more information and to register for the race.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 • 10 AM TO 5 PM WORLD’S FAIR PARK PERFORMANCE LAWN

The 2026 Knox Shamrock Fest™ is the region’s premier, family friendly St. Patrick’s Day Festival with live music, Irish dancing, food trucks, local vendors, a Lucky Pub Beer Garden, Pot o’ Gold playland, and more! Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable day of fun!

ET KIDNEY FOUNDATION SERVICES

Transportation to Dialysis - Serving approximately 300 patients per month throughout 25 counties in East Tennessee with travel cost coverage

Dental Assistance Program - Providing financial coverage for imperative dental work, necessary to be placed on the transplant waiting list

Nutritional Supplement Program - Essential protein in bar form for dialysis patients needing a sustaining, nutritious snack after dialysis treatment

Community Education - Promoting kidney disease awareness, prevention, and resources to the community

MARCH

THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

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

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

MARCH 7

13th annual Home & Garden Show at the Knoxville Expo Center from 10 am to 4 pm. Also the 8th. 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

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

Second Sunday Docent Tour at the Knoxville Museum of Art from 2 to 3 pm. Jake Owen at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 9

Knox County Schools Spring Break through the 13th

MARCH 10

Museum Sprouts: Monty & Friends at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture at 9:30 am. Meet Monty (the museum’s duck billed dinosaur) and learn about his other dino friends. This free, 30-minute museum educator led program for parents and caregivers with infants through four years old includes a short tour and family activities. Registration required at McClungMuseum.utk.edu.

Sticky Business: The Super Secret and Totally Real History of Goldilocks by the Knoxville Children’s Theatre at 7 pm. Shows through the 26th. For show times and tickets visit KnoxvilleChildrensTheatre.com.

BODYTRAFFIC, an internationally-renowned dance company, at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 11

Beatles vs. Stones: A Musical Showdown at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 12

The History Parlor at the East Tennessee History Center at 10 am. Free and open to the public. For more info visit EastTNHistory.org.

Visit Knoxville Kick-Off Party for the 2026 Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour at Covenant Health Park from 5 to 8 pm. Family friendly and free!

Centennial Anniversary Lecture Series: Knoxville Women featuring Dr. Melody Hawkins at Blount Mansion at 6 pm.

Dancing with the Stars Live at the Civic Auditorium at 7:30 pm.

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra: Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from “West Side Story” at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30. Also the 13th.

MARCH 13

Bassmaster Classic along the Tennessee River through the 15th. For info visit Bassmaster.com.

Soundscapes at the KMA featuring flautist Ragan Whiteside at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 7:30 pm.

Margaret Cho at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 14

Lucky Kidney RunTM in South Knoxville at 8 am, followed by Knox Shamrock FestTM at World’s Fair Park from 10 am to 5 pm. Family friendly festival with live Irish music, dancing, and whiskey & beer, inflatables, face painting, balloon twisting, and delicious food! A benefit for the East Tennessee Kidney Foundation. For info or to register for the race visit ETkidney.org.

Knox St. Patrick’s Parade along Gay Street at 1 pm.

One Knoxville Soccer Club vs. Forward Madison FC at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm.

Sunset Frog Walk at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 7 to 9 pm. Event registration is required at TNStateParks.com.

Ice Bears vs. Huntsville Havoc Pot O’ Goals Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

A.J. Croce’s Croce Plays Croce at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

Back N Black: The Ultimate AC/DC Experience at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

Jerry Seinfeld at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

MARCH 15

Big Camera: Anna Atkins Cyanotype and Lumen at Ijams Nature Center from noon to 2 pm.

For Knoxville’s andMarketFarmers’dates locations,seepage 26

Dirty Dancing in Concert at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm.

Tig Notaro at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 17

St. Patrick’s Day Joe Bonamassa at the Civic Auditorium at 8 pm.

MARCH 18

Porch Time I at the Mabry-Hazen House from 6 to 9 pm. Watch the sun set over downtown, enjoy beverages, and self-guided home tours.

MARCH 19

11th annual Knoxville Habitat for Humanity Sporting Clays Tournament at Iron Mountain Sporting Clays in Kodak from 9 am to 4 pm. A day of camaraderie, competition, and community impact benefiting Knoxville Habitat for Humanity. Also the 20th. Phil Wickham at the Civic Coliseum at 7 pm.

Dark Skies Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Registration is required at TNStateParks.com. The Band Solstice + Harvey Street at the Bijou Theatre at 7:30 pm.

MARCH 20

First day of spring

Spring Equinox Sunset Hike at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 7:15 to 9 pm. Event registration is required at TNStateParks.com.

Don McMillan: The PowerPoint Comedian at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville at 7:30 pm.

Ice Bears vs. Peoria Rivermen Fight Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm. Old Crow Medicine Show at the Tennessee Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 21

37th annual Ijams River Rescue along the Tennessee River from 10 am to 1 pm. For locations and to register visit Ijams.org. Severe weather date is March 28th.

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

WordPlayers College Prep Workshop for high school sophomores and juniors at Erin Presbyterian Church from noon to 4 pm.

Shamrock Ball annual father-daughter dance at the Farragut Community Center. Choose one of two time slots: 3 to 5 pm or 6 to 8 pm. Event features music, light refreshments, craft, and photos. Tickets must be purchased in advance at TownofFarragut.org.

THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • PEOPLE TO SEE

Lucy Darling at the Tennessee Theatre at 7 pm.

Ice Bears vs. Peoria Rivermen Ice Bears Gala and Legends Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Drivin N Cryin at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

MARCH 23

Banff Mountain Film Festival at the Bijou Theatre at 7 pm. Also the 24th.

MARCH 24

Used Book Sale by Friends of the Knox County Public Library at Crafty Bastard Brewery West (9937 Kingston Pike) and downtown (6 Emory Place) during business hours through the 31st.

History Hour at the Farragut Museum from 11 am to noon. Guest speaker is Charlie Rhodarmer, Director of the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum.

One Knoxville Soccer Club vs. Corpus Christi FC at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm.

MARCH 25

Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s Woodwind Quintent at the Elks Lodge (5600 Lonas Drive) at noon. Lunch is provided. For tickets visit KnoxvilleSymphony.com.

The Royale presented by the Clarence Brown Theatre Company at the Jenny Boyd Carousel Theatre (1714 Andy Holt Ave.) at 7:30 pm. Shows through April 12th. For show times and tickets visit ClarenceBrownTheatre.com.

MARCH 26

Big Ears Festival in downtown Knoxville through the 29th. For info visit BigEarsFestival.org.

Birding with a Biologist at Seven Islands State Birding Park from 8:30 to 11 am. Event registration is required at TNStateParks.com.

Women’s Fund Annual Luncheon at The Press Room from 11:30 am to 1 pm. Celebrating 15 years of serving low-income women and girls.

Spring Tree Walk with Trees Knoxville at UT Gardens (meet on the entrance plaza) from 5:30 to 7 pm. The walk will focus primarily on spring-flowering trees, especially natives or cultivars of native plants.

David Byrne presented by Big Ears at Civic Auditorium at 7:30 pm. Also the 27th at 9 pm.

MARCH 27

ArtXtravaganza 2026 art show and sale at Webb School of Knoxville (off Dutchtown Road) from 5 to 9 pm. Also the 28th from 10 am to 7 pm and 29th from 11 am to 4 pm.

One Knoxville Soccer Club vs. Richmond Kickers at Covenant Health Park at 7 pm.

Treaty Oak Revival at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center at 7 pm.

MARCH 28

48th annual Tennessee Valley Cat Fanciers Springtime Show at the Jacob Building in Chilhowee Park from 9 am to 4 pm. Also the 29th.

WordPlayers College Prep Workshop for high schoolers at Erin Presbyterian Church from 10 am to 2 pm.

The Avett Brothers & Mike Patton presented by Big Ears at the Civic Auditorium at 10 pm.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

APRIL 1

TennGreen Land Conservancy’s Hike-AThon begins. Month-long competition that supports the protection of our lands and waters - where people and nature can thrive.

More than 1000 participating adventurers in 2025! Sponsorships and free registeration at TennGreen.org.

Dogwood Trails & Gardens through the 30th. For info visit DogwoodArts.com.

CeCe Winans at the Civic Auditorium at 7 pm.

Riverdance 30: The New Generation at the Tennessee Theatre at 7:30 pm. Also the 2nd Lucius at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

APRIL 2

Steven Ho at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

APRIL 3

Knox County School Holiday

First Friday on Market Square, Gay Street, The Old City, and Downtown North beginning at 5 pm.

Ice Bears vs. Birmingham Bulls Wrestling Night at the Civic Coliseum at 7:30 pm.

Robert Cray Band at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

APRIL 4

Ice Bears vs. Birmingham Bulls Fan Appreciation at the Civic Coliseum at 6 pm.

APRIL 5

Easter

Sunrise Service at Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum at from 7 to 8 am. Chairs provided. Dress warmly.

APRIL 6

Mighty Musical Monday featuring House Organist Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ at the Tennessee Theatre at noon. Concessions available for purchase or bring a lunch. Free!

APRIL 7

Preschool Story Thyme at Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum from 10 to 11 am. Every Tuesday through October. Knoxville Jazz Orchestra presents Nothin’ But Soul with Kirk Whalum at the Bijou Theatre at 8 pm.

APRIL 8

The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra: The Breath of the Wild at the Knoxville Museum of Art at 7 pm. Also the 9th.

All event dates and times subject to change.

If you would like to receive the Events Calendar in your inbox every month, simply send a request to info@everythingknoxville.com.

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

Gay Street Downtown at 1 pm

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! No matter your age or accent, grab your green and join the family-friendly fun!

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.

KNOXVILLE AREA

● See the newest in home improvement products & services

● Furnishings, accessories, decorating & remodeling ideas

● The latest from floor to roof, patio to pool, inside & out

MARCH 7 & 8

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM - 4PM (BOTH DAYS)

KNOXVILLE EXPO CENTER

5441 CLINTON HIGHWAY, KNOXVILLE, TN

March 21 Powell Branch Library 10 AM - 5 PM March 24-31 Crafty Bastard Brewery West - 9937 Kingston Pike Emory Place - 6 Emory Place During business hours KnoxFriends.org

DON’T SHED A TEAR FOR THIS WEEPER

‘Cascade Falls’ conifer provides interesting sculptural forms all year

BY JAMES NEWBURN, MANAGING DIRECTOR, UT GARDENS, KNOXVILLE

WE HAVE LOTS of tears being shed in our State Botanical Gardens these days, but don’t be concerned. It’s simply because each of the UT Gardens campuses continues to develop fine collections of weeping trees.

Seriously though, plant breeders and nursery professionals are ever expanding the choices of weeping species. Weeping plant forms appeal to gardeners and landscapers because they can provide versatile attributes. Depending on site placement and companion plants, they can provide a graceful, elegant background or screen or become a brilliant, in-your-face specimen plant.

This month’s plant, Taxodium distichum ‘Cascade Falls,’ is a perfect choice for what it brings to the garden, with or without a needle on it. It is a deciduous conifer, so it drops its needles in fall and produces cones that are sterile. Fall color is burnt orange to coppery cinnamon. Grafted onto our native bald cypress, this weeper reaches 10 to 15 feet tall and wide in 15 to 20 years. Your kids may see it hit 30 feet. As Jason Reeves of the Jackson Gardens once wrote, ‘Cascade Falls’ “can look like a giant Mr. Snuffleupagus (a wooly mammoth) from PBS’s Sesame Street with multiple upright weeping leaders to one central leader with numerous cascading branches.”

It can be planted almost anywhere that’s in full sun and is hardy from zones 4-9. Growth does not appear to be impeded by poor or clay soil. Seasonal flooding, if planted in low lying areas, is tolerated, and, in fact, it is as happy growing in standing water as it is in well-drained soil. Cypress “knees,” upright root growth that emerges above the soil or water line, may form when grown in wet or irrigated sites.

Perhaps the most fun characteristic of ‘Cascade Falls’ is during the growing season when the needles have emerged. Its weeping form creates the greatest fort Mother Nature can offer. Imagine as a kid (or kid at heart) being able to stand (or duck) under the branches of a tree that surrounds you. You can hide in this cloak of soft, fine-textured, sweet-smelling greenery that weeps to the

Visit this specimen at UT Gardens,

ground around you and have a good cry, or pretend it is a hobbit’s home or a duck blind. This tree’s form stimulates the imagination.

After needle drop, the complexity of its branching pattern and the overall structure needed to support itself is revealed. The unique sculptural effect of ‘Cascade Falls’ puts this bald cypress front and center in the winter landscape.

No two of these trees ever look the same because of their weeping (twisted) nature. As a specimen, this outstanding conifer is unique in its four-season appeal. Plant it where it can be seen and enjoyed from multiple angles. It will become a living sculpture. ‘Cascade Falls’ appears relatively maintenance free. No serious pests or diseases impact it. Possible winter pruning may be in order every year or two to maintain shape as plants mature. This also aids in discouraging it from rooting where the tear of this weeper touches the ground.

The Knoxville and Jackson gardens contain good specimens of ‘Cascade Falls,’ though you’ll find examples of weeping conifers at all sites.

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. Visit UTGardens.Tennessee.edu for more information.

MGardening in March

ARCH IN East Tennessee is like a toddler with a crayon: unpredictable, sometimes destructive, and full of surprises. One day it’s 70 degrees and you’re convinced winter is over. The next morning, there’s frost on your plants and you’re swearing about storing the emergency plant blankets you thought you’d never need again.

Still, March is when gardening season truly begins around here. The soil is waking up, daffodils are blooming, gardeners are itching to dig in the dirt, and seed catalogs have become thoroughly dog-eared. The key to success? Knowing what to do and what not to do during this fickle month.

What You Should Do in March

Start with a soil check - Before you start hauling all your tools and baby plants to the garden, take a moment to check your soil. East Tennessee’s clay-heavy ground often compacts during winter. If it’s too wet, stepping or digging can turn it into brick when it dries. Grab a handful and squeeze it. If it forms a sticky ball, wait. If it crumbles, you’re good to go.

While you’re there, do a soil test. This is particularly important if an area has given you trouble or if it’s a new bed. Get a test kit from the UT Extension Service and follow the instructions.

March is an ideal time to add compost or well-rotted manure to beds. Think of it as breakfast for your garden, because your soil will be feeding your plants for the rest of their lives.

Plant cool-season crops - March is prime time for cool-weather vegetables. You can safely plant lettuce, spinach, kale, peas, radishes, carrots, beets, broccoli, and cabbage transplants. These crops actually prefer chilly soil and mild temperatures. Planting them now means you’ll harvest before summer heat turns them bitter or makes them bolt.

Potatoes can also go in the ground in March. Old-timers in the region often aim for St. Patrick’s Day as a traditional planting date. It’s not scientifically proven, but you can celebrate with green beer!

Prune wisely - If you haven’t done it yet (because it was cold or snowing or you weren’t in the mood), late February into early March is still a good time to prune many trees and shrubs. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches from fruit trees and ornamental shrubs. Just be careful with spring bloomers like azaleas, dogwoods, and forsythia. If you prune those now, you’ll have no blooms.

Start seeds indoors - Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and many herbs should be started indoors in March. Starting seeds now gives them a strong head start.

BY LISA GRUGIN

Mulch and weed early - Weeds wake up early here, often before you notice them. A light layer of mulch around perennials and in garden beds can suppress early weeds and help retain moisture. Pulling weeds when they’re small is deeply satisfying and far easier than battling them in June. After you get them pulled, apply a pre-emergent to help keep the weeds from coming back.

What You Should Not Do in March

Don’t trust the weather - This may be the most important rule of March gardening in East Tennessee: Do not trust a warm week. Or two. Or even three. A sudden cold snap or late frost can and will happen. East Tennessee’s average last frost falls mid April, but a surprise frost in May isn’t unusual. You may also have earlier or later frosts depending on elevation and microclimate, so resist the urge to plant tender vegetables (like tomatoes, peppers, squash, or cucumbers) outdoors. Resist the urge to plant tender annuals like impatiens and begonias that will turn to mush with a frost. Resist! Don’t fertilize everything - It’s tempting to

dump fertilizer on the entire garden the moment March arrives, but not all plants need it. If you do the soil test I suggested earlier, you’ll know what you need to apply. Overfertilizing can lead to leggy growth, nutrient runoff, and unnecessary expense. Focus on enriching soil with compost and applying targeted fertilizer only where needed.

Don’t ignore tools and infrastructure - March is the perfect time to repair raised beds, clean and sharpen tools, check hoses, and test irrigation systems. Ignoring these tasks now means dealing with broken equipment in May when you’d rather be planting.

The Joy (and Chaos) of March

Gardening in March is a mix of optimism and caution. You’ll feel the pull to plant everything immediately, but then you’ll also learn that Mother Nature has a wicked sense of humor. Embrace the slow start. Plant what thrives in cool weather. Prepare for what’s coming. And keep a stash of old sheets handy for those nights when the temperature drops just enough to make you question your life choices.

New Exhibitions Opening

Emporium Center March 6

THE ARTS & Culture Alliance is pleased to present four new exhibitions at the Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville March 6-29. 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.

E Pluribus Unum Juried Exhibition in the Lower Gallery

The Arts & Culture Alliance announces a new juried exhibition entitled E Pluribus Unum (“Out of many, one”), which invited artists to reflect on American life and our shared history through contemporary art. This project, funded by the Tennessee Arts Commission, encourages creative reflection on American ideals and our national narrative. By bringing local artists and audiences together around shared creative expression, the project highlights Knoxville’s role as a vibrant contributor to the national conversation on the country’s past, present, and future. The exhibition encompasses all styles and genres from both emerging and established artists.

shape, and form. Some moments are intense, some are quiet; each exists as a space to enter rather than a point to explain. The work invites you to slow down and feel - to notice how color can carry emotion, how structure can hold thought, and how movement through form becomes a way of sensing rather than understanding. You don’t have to decode these images but rather just inhabit them.

In Traditional Stained Glass with a Modern Twist, Laura Goff Parham presents a variety of stained glass works that approach the discipline with an experimental flair, imbuing the pieces with a sense of play. Both flat and sculptural, Laura’s works invite the viewer to explore color, form, and texture and to consider the expansive possibilities of glass through a contemporary lens.

About the juror: Josiah Golson is the creator of 800 Collective and the Restorative Arts Manager with Metro Arts Nashville. Golson received his B.A. in Communication from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law in Austin.

Robert Felker: Patron Saints of Rock® , Revival in the Atrium

After a five-year hiatus, Patron Saints of Rock® returns to the Emporium Center for a soul-stirring Revival. It is a continuation of (and a return to) the larger-than-life portrait series Robert Felker has been creating of music’s iconic personalities since 2019.

Robert was born in Knoxville and grew up in Nashville. He has a BFA in Media Arts from the School of Visual Arts, NYC, where he studied painting and illustration. After several years as a freelance illustrator, he transitioned to graphic design for more than 25 years while continuing to paint and make collages. Patron Saints of Rock® began as a labor of love and debuted at the Bijou Theatre in 2019, then again in 2021 at the Emporium Center. He also paints land/cityscapes en plein air and in studio and has completed several public art projects.

Liz Lee: Soft Wounds, Loud Colors: Fragments of a Lived Experience on the North Wall

Artist statement: Soft Wounds, Loud Colors gathers a series of digital works that reflect how I see and feel experience through pattern, memory, and sensation. These pieces are not stories with beginnings and endings - they are fragments of perception held in color,

Laura is a professional Stained Glass Artist based in Knoxville. Working by commissions only, she has created stained glass works throughout the Southeast for the past 40 years. She has designed and fabricated numerous large-scale projects for churches, businesses, and private residences. Lately, she has branched into fused glass that uses the traditional glass of stained-glass windows; however, they are melted together in a kiln to form small plates and platters and pieces of art.

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, Tennessee-born, or deeply influenced by this region with strong ties to Knoxville and Nashville. Curated by Ashley Layendecker, each 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. 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.

The exhibitions will be on display at the Emporium Center, located at 100 S. Gay Street in Knoxville. In March, the Emporium is open to the public Monday - Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday 10 am to 1 pm, with additional hours March 13 and 19 from 5 to 7 pm for Gallery 1010 openings and extended hours Wednesday the 25th through Sunday the 29th for Big Ears Festival. Call 865-523-7543 or visit KnoxAlliance.com for more information.

Blooming Kindness: How Random Acts of Flowers Spreads Joy and Sustainability

AT RANDOM ACTS of Flowers, our mission is rooted in compassion. With a simple yet profound gesture, every week we remind someone that they are seen, valued, and not alone. When we give repurposed blooms, we uplift the spirit of individuals in healthcare settings by delivering bouquets crafted from donated flowers, creating moments of beauty and connection where they matter most.

But behind each joyful delivery is a larger story of community partnership and a beautiful byproduct of environmental stewardship. Our work begins with generous donations of flowers from weddings, events, grocery stores, funerals, and caring individuals. Instead of these blooms being discarded after a single use, our volunteers lovingly deconstruct, refresh, and redesign them into new arrangements. Each bouquet reflects the belief that beauty can be renewed and shared.

them new purpose in the hands of recipients who benefit from the emotional boost of a thoughtful gift. When items can’t be used, we pass them along to local florists, community partners, or organizations like KARM, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Even our green waste, from floral clippings to spent petals, is composted by the Lawn Butler and transforms what would be trash into nutrient-rich material that supports healthier soil and a more sustainable local ecosystem. It’s a beautiful byproduct of our mission: spreading kindness while reducing environmental impact in tangible, measurable ways.

What many people don’t see is the meaningful environmental impact this model creates. Every stem has a second life, and every vase or vessel is one less item entering our landfills. We upcycle thousands of vases, cups, and baskets each year, giving

At Random Acts of Flowers, we believe small acts create big change. Through the combined efforts of donors, volunteers, and community partners, we deliver thousands of moments of joy each year while simultaneously caring for the planet we all share. Don’t forget to follow along on our social media pages for updates, stories, and ways to get involved!

For more information about Random Acts of Flowers or to get involved, call 865-633-9082 or visit our website at RandomActsofFlowers.org.

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.

WE ARE MORE THAN A GARDEN.

where the beauty of East Tennessee is cultivated for generations

where traditions are honored

where everyone can find respite, beauty, and belonging.

where a child’s wonder becomes lifelong love

The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a nonprofit, public garden located on 44 acres of the former Howell Nurseries. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Garden features walking trails, display gardens, unique & historic horticulture, timeless buildings, and over two miles of distinctive stone walls. Located just five minutes from downtown, the Garden is free and open to the public every day of the year thanks to the generous support of our members and contributors.

EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE • Sunday, April 5 • 7 to 8 am

All are welcome to the annual Easter Sunrise Service on the LeConte Meadow. Join neighbors and friends to experience the sunrise over the mountains and hear from local spiritual leaders and pastors. Chairs are provided. Please dress warmly.

2743 Wimpole Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37914

865.862.8717 • knoxgarden.org