Issuu

HOLIDAY 2025

Life

A MAGAZINE FOR THE PEOPLE OF MONROE COUNTY AND THOSE WHO COME TO VISIT.

Lon Shoopman

A Child Is Born Smoky Mountain Mason Jar Shanne Garren Hometown Baker

Monroe SUMMER 2022 FARRAGUT LIFE

Care you can count on Prisma Health Family Medicine–Vonore is dedicated to serving our neighbors with compassionate, high-quality care. Our team offers a wide range of primary care services to keep you healthy, strong and supported through every stage of life. From well visits to unexpected or urgent medical needs, we’re close by and ready to help. Services include: • Well patient care • Chronic illness management • Care for acute illnesses and injuries • Health screenings and annual physicals • Basic procedures, such as electrocardiogram (EKG) • Rapid tests, such as flu, strep or COVID Staying healthy starts with having care you can count on. Call Prisma Health Family Medicine–Vonore at 423-884-1925 to schedule an appointment. 110 Deer Crossing, Vonore, TN 37885 Tuesday–Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. .

Blount Memorial Hospital is now part of Prisma Health 25-1429

VOTED “BEST” FLORIST IN MONROE COUNTY By The Advocate & Democrat

You can expect great customer service, fresh flower arrangements, beautiful floral designs, plants, gift baskets and much more.

We Deliver! FALL OPEN HOUSE: Shop Local This Holiday Season SEPTEMBER 5th & 6TH FLORIST AND GIFTS

VISIT US ON FACEBOOK

4254 US-411, Madisonville • (423) 545-9298 • 423-371-2227 • www.carolineshomefloralandgifts.com

No Need To Travel To The North Pole For

Traditionally, a wax carver would create your item by hand, then it would be cast into gold. The customer would rarely be involved in viewing the item before the casting process. Today's newest technology allows us to rely on the much more accurate and efficient form of milling machines to carve the wax. We can take the same file we send to the milling machine and also 3D print

11320 KINGSTON PIKE

the prototype into a plastic model, which allows the customer to view the design before we move into the milling or casting processes. These new additional steps give our customers the ability to make changes, edit, and view photorealistic renders from the design software. While this is becoming a standard practice in our industry, we have been using these softwares, milling machines, and printers in our shop since 2004, giving us possibly one of the largest databases of pre-designed custom items in the area. Our archive is growing every day with new versions of projects, so we currently keep a database of images, prototypes, and photos of finished items in the showroom for new customers to discuss or see the level of work we do on a daily basis.

at our West Knoxville location is something we take much pride in. Without outsourcing the work or purchasing products that were not manufactured to our standards, we can assure our customer base that the priority of our entire team is the quality and workmanship we can provide. While there are many reputable manufacturers in our industry, we truly believe we are able to provide our customers with the same quality, materials, manufacturing, and workmanship that is available at any premier retail establishment in the world."

All jewelry is manufactured somewhere in this world, so why not here in Knoxville, and why not exclusively for you? The ability to look past our register, through the glass into our shop, and see your items being created

•

KNOXVILLE, TN 37934

•

865.777.3793

farrag ut

e have been serving this community since 1986, and we pride ourselves on creating the highest quality custom jewelry designs in the greater Knoxville area. We have been blessed to see our small business grow to manufacture, on average, 400 custom in-house designs per year. Using a variety of new and old techniques to accomplish the customers' goals, we are eager to help tailor our shop's abilities to each special moment.

Custom Jewelry!

Master Gardener GAYLE FISHER

Attracting Songbirds To Your Garden

Contents features

Martha McGlothlin Bowman

PINE TREES

AND THAT BEAUTIFUL SMELL

The Art Of Living With History

DOUG PATTERSON Monroe County Chamber Businessman of the Year

THE LONG GRAY LINE A Father And A Son’s Shared Journey Through The Citadel

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MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

Smoky Mountain Mason Jar Hometown Baker Extraordinaire

Shanne Conner Garren

DR. LON SHOOPMAN

What Child Is This? What Child is this, who, laid to rest On Mary’s lap, is sleeping?

8 departments

INGLES TABLE RECIPES

6 From The Publisher 66 Happenings & Festivals 72 2025 Monroe Life Balloon Festival

Homespun

Unique Shopping

START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT

ANYTIME FITNESS

GIVES US EXPERT ADVISE

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

ard

Merry Christmas

PUBLICATIONS: PUBLICATIONS:REACHING REACHINGMORE MOREHOMEOWNERS HOMEOWNERSTHAN THANANY ANYPUBLISHER PUBLISHERININET ET

Since its inception The Bingham Group has been producing effective multi-media campaigns for clients. FROM LISA ATKINS YEARS OF BRANDING As the years AND have progressed, more services have been added THE BINGHAM GROUP EXPERIENCE to form a full-service advertising agency including execution of market As the and winter season settles in and thestrategies. glow research, logo creation development of marketing of the holidays begins to fill our homes,media I’m kits, Additional work has included annual reports, brochures, reminded once again why thispresentations, time of year isvideo, print ads, television and radio PSAs, PowerPoint YEARS OF IN-HOUSE so dear to my heart. There’s something truly TELEVISION PRODUCTION CD-ROM, logo creation, website development, media placement, social special about coming home to the scent of fresh media, digital marketing, and in-house television lights, production. pine andcollateral the soft shimmer of Christmas Representative clients have included Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, REGIONAL gathering around the table with family, sharing TIVAL R E G I O N A LME M EDIA D I AEEXPE X P ERIE R I ENCE N C E••MONROE M O N R O ELIFE L I F EBALLOON BA L L O O NFES F ESTI VAL mountains areUniversity, calling!onInthe thisblessings issue,College, we’ll take Edfinancial, OakThe Ridge Associated Hiwassee Knoxville laughter, and reflecting of the CUSTOM MAGAZINES A YEAR a journey to the refreshing Pisgah Inn, andmy its year.and Decorating my agencies home, baking Wholesale Furniture government such aswith the Tennessee stunning views of the Appalachian countryside. daughters, and seeing my family gather around Department of Transportation (TDOT), the Tennessee Department of treedrive withalong warm cups of coffee andRidge cocoa A the scenic beautiful Blue Commerce & Insurance (TDCI), thethe Tennessee Department of Health are among myCherohala favorite traditions. This year or Department the Skywayand offers quickis Security. (TDH) and the Parkway Tennessee of Safety Homeland

From The Publisher

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especially meaningful, as I’ll be celebrating my very LOCAL AND NATIONAL ADDY day trips for the family. “Tail of thea AWARDS first Christmas with myThe firstthrilling granddaughter, Dragon” on US 129 waits for you to try. The Bingham Group, Inc., is a Woman-Owned Small Business as certified joy that fills my heart in ways words can hardly by the Governor’sdescribe. Office ofThese Diversity Business Enterprise andme Tennessee simple moments remind of theinwarmth thatseveral lives inlocal bothbusinesses our homeswait andtoour Department of Also Transportation. this issue, 25 YEARS OF HOUSE 25 YEARS OFIN IN HOUSETELEVISION TELEVISIONPRODUCTION: PRODUCTION:DOCUMENTARIES: DOCUMENTARIES:KIPPY KIPPY hearts this be time of year. NATIONAL BROADCAST ADDY explored.

AWARDS

This holiday issue of Monroe Life beautifully The Monroe LifeWithin Balloonthese Festival reflects that same spirit. pages, this year! Theoffestival benefits you’ll find returns remarkable stories kindness, service, andthe community, stories thatofcelebrate Boys and Girls Club Monroe the peopleCounty. and events thatKinsey, make Monroe Derek the CEO,County tells 1 shine a little brighter during the holidays. From how Covid has impacted their fundraising along festive gatherings and cherished traditions to acts with what you that can capture do to help. of generosity the true meaning of the season, this issue is a joyful reminder of all there is to be for.the stories in this issue, I hope yougrateful enjoy all and your summer is full of exciting and warm We’ve celebrated milestones as a company and memories. Thank you tofilled all of our as a family, and we’re withadvertisers, gratitude readers, and sponsors. We are especially grateful for everyone who continues to support forour you. magazines.Your encouragement and partnership make it possible for us to keep telling itthe stories uplift, and Whether is an agencythat project or ainspire, magazine story connect our communities. we love what we do - from working with Sherriff Joe Guy in Athens, the State BombI wish squadyou blowing up a From my family to yours, a joyful camper years ofsurrounded boats work, or a Christmas holiday, 8season bylighting those you love, andFarm a bright, peacefulcommercial New Year filled with hope Tree for a Braden’s - everyday is a and possibility. gift! I really appreciate my team and all our clients!

TBG’S MAIN OFFICE IS LOCATED IN FARRAGUT.

With warmest regards, Have a wonderful covid-free summer. Lisa Atkins The Bingham Group Lisa Atkins-Bingham President

TOURISM TOURISMEXPERIENCE: EXPERIENCE: ANAKEESTA ANAKEESTA••RIPLEY’S RIPLEY’S••ANDERSON ANDERSONCOUNTY COUNTY

The TheBingham BinghamGroup GroupMulti MultiMedia MediaCampaign Campaign# Domestic Violence Campaign Domestic Violence Campaign

TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OFOF SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY 312312 Rosa L. Parks Ave,Ave, Wm.Wm. R. Snodgrass TN TN Tower, 25th25th Floor, Nashville, TN TN 3724 Rosa L. Parks R. Snodgrass Tower, Floor, Nashville, 3

Contract Number: 34901-00191 Contract Number: 34901-00191 Contract Term: April 3, 2014 – April 2, 2019 Contract Term: April 3, 2014 – April 2, 2019 Procuring state agency: Tennessee Department of Safety andand Homeland Security Procuring state agency: Tennessee Department of Safety Homeland Secu Megan Buell Megan Buell 615-251-8587 615-251-8587 Megan.Buell@tn.gov Megan.Buell@tn.gov

TheThe Bingham Group hashas a five-year contract withwith thethe State of Tennessee to create Bingham Group a five-year contract State of Tennessee to cre domestic violence awareness campaign to include radio, television, visual printprint media, so domestic violence awareness campaign to include radio, television, visual media media andand other forms of non-traditional media. media other forms of non-traditional media.

TWENTY TWENTYFIVE FIVESTATE STATECONTRACTS: CONTRACTS:ANTI-METH ANTI-METH••DOMESTIC DOMESTICVIOLENCE VIOLENCE••DON’T DON’T ..

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MONROE 2021 MONROE LIFE LIFE SUMMER HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

If you or someone youyou know is inisan abusive relationship, make thethc If you or someone know in an abusive relationship, make www.pcat.org/programs/domestic-violence-helpline www.pcat.org/programs/domestic-violence-helpline

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Advertising Sales Advertising Sales Tel: Mignonne 865.523.5999 Alman Cell:Tel: 423-994-2946 865.523.5999 kristin@binghamgroup.com mignonne@binghamgroup.com lisa@binghamgroup.com Subscription or Editorial Inquiries Tel: 865.523.5999 Tel: 865.523.5999 www.farragutlife.com www.monroelife.com lisa@binghamgroup.com The Bingham Group, Inc. 11921 Kingston Pike, Suite 201 Knoxville, Tennessee 37934 WEBSITES:

Subscription or Editorial Inquiries

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TEXT TEXT&&DRIVE DRIVE••ANTI-TOBACCO ANTI-TOBACCO••DIABETES DIABETES••TDOT TDOT••TRANSIT TRANSITAGENCIES AGENCIES

www.binghamgroup.com www.monroelife.com ww.mcminnlife.com www.farragutlife.com

SUMMER 2021 HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE MONROELIFE LIFE

MONROE LIFE WINTER 2025

WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

Events

Presented By: Sloan Center of Vonore

s for a magical Madison Join u ville C

h rist m a s

NOV. 28: Lighting of the Square

7pm countdown to lighting of the square & concert

NOV. 29: Shop Small Saturday

Giveaways, photos with Santa and favorite Christmas characters, seasonal refreshments & much more!

DEC. 13: Festival on the Square 2-7PM 7pm: Kiwanis Christmas Parade Finale www.visitmadisonvilletn.com HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

THESE RECIPES ARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY INGLES, STARTED IN 1963. BY ROBERT P. INGLE AND COMMITTED TO THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE.

FARM TO TABLE n order to bring the freshest produce available to his customers, Elmer Ingle used to visit local farmers in the early mornings, picking up only the best. Today, the store and the people look a little different but the produce doesn’t… everywhere you look the Ingles produce department has the freshest and the tastiest produce available, from local farmers just like Elmer, and from around the world. Making sure you have the less traveled – best selection. We have an excellent variety of organic selections and a fresh produce prep area where we can core a pineapple, cut watermelon or put together the perfect combination of fresh vegetables for you, all with knowledgeable and friendly associates ready to help. Next time you visit your neighborhood Ingles, take a little more time to notice how much the tradition of the highest standards still remains with every fruit and vegetable.

INGLES….EXPECT MORE FROM YOUR LOCAL STORE. 14

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

Jasmin Queen

BUTTER PECAN STICKY ROLLS SERVES: 4-6 Shopping List 1 pkg. 12 sweet rolls 1/4 cup butter 1/3 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon 3 tbsp. maple syrup 1/2 cup chopped pecans Compote 1 cup sugar 2 tbsp. corn starch 1 tbsp. lemon juice 2 cups frozen cranberries 1/4 cup water dash salt

ABBY J

CRANBERRY CORNBREAD WITH ORANGE BUTTER Shopping List

Instructions

Cornbread: (12.5 oz.) box of honey butter cornmeal mix 1/2 cup milk 1 tbsp. butter, melted 1 egg 1 orange, zested 1/2 cup cranberries, chopped 1/4 cup whole cranberries 1/4 cup chives,chopped

Preheat the oven to 375°F and melt 1 tbsp. butter into a 10-inch cast iron skillet.

Orange Butter: 1/2 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 tbsp. orange juice 1 orange, zested

Stir together the milk and egg and pour into the mix. Add half the chives and fold in the chopped cranberries. Pour into the skillet and add the remaining chives and whole cranberries on top. Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown. For the butter, whisk together the ingredients and store in an air tight container.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/cranberry-cornbread-with-orange-butter

Instructions In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and maple/corn syrup (if using). Heat this mixture for 30-60 seconds in the microwave to help it combine and melt the sugar. Pour the sticky topping mixture into the bottom of a prepared pan. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the mixture. Bake according to the time specified on the dough package, typically 15-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the buns are cooked through. For the compote, combine ingredients in a medium sauce pan and stir until thickened. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ butter-pecan-sticky-buns-with-acranberry-compote

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

Kaitlyn Baker

CRANBERRY JALAPEÑO DIP Shopping List 12 oz. fresh cranberries 1 jalapeño, cut in half and deseeded 4 green onions, whites and light green parts 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1/2 tsp. salt 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 tbsp. sour cream

Chef John Gifaldi

ORANGE POMEGRANATE SALAD SERVES: 6-8 Shopping List

Instructions

1/4 cup olive oil 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed) 1 tbsp. orange zest 1 tbsp. honey 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard Kosher salt black pepper 8 cups fresh romaine lettuce 2 oranges, peeled and sliced 1 lg. pomegranate 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled 1/2 cup candied almonds, chopped 1/2 red onion, sliced

In a shaker jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, orange zest, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk together, then place in the fridge to chill until you are ready to serve.

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

In a food processor, add the cranberries, jalapeño, green onions, lemon juice, sugar, and salt. Pulse until chopped. Strain the cranberry mixture, reserving the juice. In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat with a hand mixer (or stand mixer) until fluffy.

In a large bowl, Assemble the romaine lettuce, oranges, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, chopped almonds, and onion.

Add in the reserved juice until you get your desired thickness. Start with 1 tbsp. Stir in 1/3 to 1/2 of the cranberry mixture. Mix well.

Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss to coat, then serve with the remaining dressing on the side.

Spoon into your serving dish. Top with the remaining cranberry jalapeno mix. Garnish with extra green onion, jalapeño, or parsley.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/orange-pomegranate-salad

Instructions

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ cranberry-jalapeno-dip-2

Smokin’ Joe Lasher

BALSAMIC BEET SALAD WITH SEARED SALMON Shopping List 4 skinless salmon filets salt and pepper, to taste 4 tbsp. olive oil, divided 5 medium beets 2 cups spring mix or salad greens 1/2 shallot, thinly sliced 1/4 cup toasted walnuts 4 oz. goat cheese, torn 8 oz. balsamic vinaigrette dressing 1 cup microgreens (optional) 1 green apple, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions Preheat oven to 450°F. Wash the beets and place them on a foil sheet. Liberally coat with olive oil, salt and pepper, and wrap with foil. Place on a baking sheet and place in the preheated oven, cooking until fork tender, approximately 45 minutes. Remove beets from the oven, remove from foil, and set aside. When they are cool to the touch, peel the skins. Let beets cool further, then chill in the refrigerator until ready to use. When thoroughly chilled, slice beets into 1/4-inch rounds and set aside. Coat salmon filets with olive oil; season all sides with salt and pepper; set aside. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon into a hot skillet. Let the salmon sear for approx. 2-3 minutes, then turn and finish until internal temperature of 145°F. Assemble salad with greens, shallot, apple, beets, walnuts, cheese, and microgreens. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and top with seared salmon filet! www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ balsamic-beet-salad-with-seared-salmon

Cultivated Cocktails

HARD NOG LIFE Shopping List 2 oz. whiskey or bourbon 2 oz. eggnog 1/4 oz. 100% pure maple syrup 1/4 oz. orgeat Instructions In a cocktail shaker, fill halfway with ice and all ingredients. Shake for 15 seconds, then strain into a glass. Top with whipped cream and ground cinnamon. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ hard-nog-life

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

Abby J

SPICY SHRIMP & GUACAMOLE BITES Clark and Suzy Neal with Unicoi Preserves

TURKEY AND CHORIZO FAJITAS SERVES: 6-8

Shopping List 2 cups cooked turkey, cubed 1 (7 oz.) tube fresh chorizo 1 yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, poblano pepper, jalapeño pepper cored, sliced into thin strips 1 red onion, sliced into strips 1 (1.25 oz.) packet taco seasoning flour tortillas olive oil 1/2 cup candied almonds, chopped 1/2 red onion, sliced Instructions Core and slice peppers into thin strips. Cut onion into strips.

caramelized. Add half of the taco seasoning/ water mixture to the pan; cook until the liquid has evaporated. Remove peppers and onions and keep warm. Wipe the skillet clean. Add olive oil to the skillet and cook chorizo over medium heat, breaking it up with a cooking utensil. Once the chorizo is cooked, add cubed turkey; stir to combine. Allow turkey to heat, and then add the remaining taco seasoning mixture. Keep stirring until the liquid evaporates. Remove from the skillet. Warm flour tortillas slightly in the microwave, or toast them slightly in a dry skillet over medium heat.

In a bowl, mix taco seasoning with 2/3 cup water.

Place peppers and onions onto a flour tortilla, top with turkey and chorizo mixture, then add your preferred toppings.

Add olive oil to a large skillet, and sauté peppers and onions on medium-high heat until cooked through and slightly

Topping Suggestions: shredded cheese, pico de gallo, cilantro, or sour cream.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/turkey-and-chorizo-fajitas

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

Shopping List 1 lb. frozen raw shrimp (25 count), peeled and deveined) 1/2 cup Abby J’s Smokin Hot Sauce 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice 1 cup fresh guacamole (Produce Dept.) 2 tbsp. fresh cilantro, chopped 25 scoop-style tortilla chips Instructions Preheat the oven to 400°F. Thaw your shrimp and place them into a bowl. Add Smokin Hot Sauce and let marinate for 10 minutes. Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet and roast for 6 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the lime juice with the guacamole. Top each tortilla chip with a spoonful of guacamole and a shrimp. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve at room temperature. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ spicy-shrimp-guacamole-bites

Cultivated Cocktails

SOUR APPLE Shopping List 2 oz. whiskey or bourbon 3/4 oz. ginger snap syrup 3/4 oz. honeycrisp apple shrub 10 drops fee foam 1/2 oz. red wine Chef Carla Figáro

SWEET & SAVORY SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE Shopping List

Instructions

Topping 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup all purpose flour 1/2 cup almonds, roasted and chopped 3 tbsp. butter

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Sweet Potato 4 lg. Ruby sweet potato, baked/peeled 1 lg. navel orange, zested 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1/4 cup light brown sugar 4 tbsp. butter 1/2 cup cream

Place a saute pan on medium-high heat and saute onions until translucent.

Hot Honey Chicken 2 cups frozen chopped kale 1 onion small, diced 1 tbsp. olive oil 1/4 tsp. nutmeg salt, to taste 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1 lg. apple (i.e., granny smith, pink lady, honeycrisp), peeled and diced 1 tbsp. butter 3 tbsp. brown sugar 1 pinch salt 1/2 orange, juiced

Place all topping ingredients in a small bowl and press together with dry fingers until crumbly like loose pebbles. Set aside.

Instructions In a cocktail shaker, add all ingredients, shake for 15 seconds. Add ice to a shaker, and shake for another 15 seconds. Strain into a glass of ice and garnish with apple slices. www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/ sour-apple

Add kale and saute until onions begin to caramelize. Add nutmeg and salt; continue to cook until tender. Set aside. Place a saute pan on medium-high heat. Add cranberries, apples, 2 tbsp. brown sugar, 2 tbsp. butter and salt to a saute pan. Sauté until tender and bubbly. Set aside. Mash the sweet potato with 2 tbsp. butter, orange juice, zest, and 1 tbsp. brown sugar. Set aside To assemble, place a third of the sweet potato mixture on the bottom, then top with cranberry apple mixture followed by another layer of sweet potato. Add kale and other ingredients as layers and bake for 30 mins.

www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/sweet-savory-sweet-potato-casserole

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

ONLINE RECIPE SEARCH

Kelli Smith and Erin Barnett

MINI CHEESE BALL WREATH Shopping List 2 (8 Oz.) Cream Cheese, Room Temp. 2 Tbsp. Mayonnaise 2 Tsp. Onion Powder 1 Tsp. Garlic Salt 2 Tbsp. Lemon Juice 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce 1 Tsp. Ground Black Pepper 1/2 Cup Green Onion, Finely Chopped 2 Cups White Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Shredded 2 Cups Dried Cranberries, Chopped 2 Cups Pecans Or Almonds, Chopped 1 Cup Green Onions Or Chives, Sliced Fresh Rosemary Sprigs, Fresh

Monroe Life website!

Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form balls out of the cheese ball mixtures and place onto a serving tray or cookie sheet. Refrigerate cheeseballs for 1-2 hours or until firm.

Our new website is the best place to keep up with articles and stories between issues so you never miss a beat of what’s going on in our community. No matter if you’re using a phone, tablet, or desktop, our new website is fully optimized to make reading our content as easy as possible.

Roll the refrigerated cheese balls into the chopped cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped almonds, and green onions Form a ring with half of the cheeseballs on a serving tray or circular cutting board to create a wreath.

Instructions

Add a second layer on top of the ring of cheeseballs.

Blend together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, seasonings, and Worcestershire until smooth and creamy.

Use fresh herbs to garnish the edges of the cheese ball wreath. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve and enjoy!

https://www.ingles-markets.com/recipes/mini-cheese-ball-wreath

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

Introducing the new

Stir in the shredded cheese and green onion until smooth and creamy.

We also publish full versions of our print magazines online the same day they’re being delivered to homes! See all the delicious recipes from current and past issues complete with step by step instructions and an intergrated shopping list! Need to Scale a Recipe? No problem! Our online recipe system allows you to choose how many servings you want and it automatically adjusts the needed ingredients and shopping list!

www.monroelife.com

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

A STORY IN EVERY PIECE: The Art of Living With History By Kristin West & Martha McGlothlin Bowman

tep inside Martha McGlothlin Bowman’s home, and you’ll feel it before you see it, warmth, character, nostalgia. Every shelf, every wall, every corner tells a story. Some stories whisper through heirlooms passed down generations, others sing through bright estate sale treasures that Martha couldn’t leave behind. Together, they create a living museum of life, love, and legacy, a home that feels like a hug from history itself. Martha comes by her love for “stuff” honestly. With four kids and a family line of collectors, history keepers, and storytellers, she inherited more than just things, she inherited memories. “I’m a natural hoarder,” she laughs, “of family photos, old books, and stories that tie generations together.” Her passion for preserving and re-imagining the past has spilled over into every corner of her life, from remodeling historical properties to writing about design on her blog, The ConfettiChronicles. Over the years, Martha has built and restored a collection of homes that each hold a heartbeat

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

of their own, a stately 1860s cabin, a cozy former camp house, a breezy beach house, even a company museum. Each one, a canvas for her creative storytelling. But Martha’s message goes beyond décor. She’s on a mission to teach others the value of holding on, of not letting go of those “old” items that mean something. Why? Because every family heirloom, every vintage find, is a thread in the fabric of who we are. “Family pieces tell your story,” she says. “They preserve history, connect generations, and add authenticity that can’t be replicated.” Older items were simply built better, solid wood, handcrafted details, and timeless charm that modern pieces often lack. Estate

sales, Martha adds, are treasure troves for affordable, character-rich finds, each with a story waiting to be discovered. Her home is a gallery of conversation starters: eclectic bowls, one-of-a-kind lamps, mismatched chairs, and vintage china displayed proudly on the walls. “Be bold, be unapologetic,” she encourages. “It’s the odd pieces that spark the best conversations.” And she’s right. Imagine a dinner party where the table is not just a place to eat, but a place to remember. Each plate, glass, and napkin tells a different story, colored glassware from the 60s, handmade table runners, or the very china your grandmother once used at Sunday supper.

In the end, it’s all about preserving memories. Live with them; don’t store them away!

Martha’s design philosophy is simple: Live with your memories. Don’t store them away. Frame your children’s artwork instead of letting it fade on the fridge. Turn family photos into art collages along the stairwell. Hang your grandmother’s china as wall décor rather than tucking it in a cabinet. Mix and match your furniture, chairs from one decade, rugs from another, and embrace the beauty of the unexpected. Much like your grandmother’s best recipes, these heirlooms are the secret ingredients to a home filled with soul. And when it comes to the holidays, especially Christmas, Martha’s approach is pure nostalgia. Handmade glass trees, vintage Santas by the fireplace, ornaments made from family photos, all reminders that what truly decorates our homes are the people and memories within them. Because in the end, design isn’t just about beauty, it’s about belonging. So start with your story. Share it throughout your home. Keep the things that matter. Give old treasures new life.

For more design inspiration, heartfelt storytelling, and practical tips visit:

LifeOnVirginia.com TheConfettiChronicles.com Instagram @TheConfettiChronicles SUBSCRIBE TO GET MARTHA’S FREE DESIGN GUIDE:

“101 Things to Hang on Your Wall” MARTHA’S FAVORITE PLACES TO SHOP Your Own Attic (or mom’s /grandmother’s) FB Marketplace ETSY Ebay EstateSales.net Estate Sales By Kara Goodwill Salvation Army Store Instagram: @WillowRoadInteriors @HomeWithHillary

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Gayle Gayle Fisher Fisher

MASTER MASTER GARDENER GARDENER

Attracting Songbirds Songbirds toto Your Garden

o matter the size of your yard, you N can can attract attractand andenjoy enjoyaavariety varietyofofbirds. birds. o matter the size of your yard, you

Even Even ififyou youlive livewithin withinthe thecity, city,simply simply planting flowers and shrubs that appeal planting flowers and shrubs that appealtoto birds birds can can make makeaabig bigdifference. difference.Allowing Allowing faded faded blooms bloomsto toremain remainon onplants plantsprovides provides valuable seed heads for birds, turning valuable seed heads for birds, turningyour your garden garden into into aafood foodsource sourcefor foryour yourfeathered feathered visitors. visitors. This Thisapproach approachisisnot notonly onlybeneficial beneficial for birds but also convenient for gardeners for birds but also convenient for gardeners who who prefer prefer less lessmaintenance. maintenance.When Whenguests guests visit, I often mention that while I visit, I often mention that while Iwould wouldlove loveaa meticulously meticulouslygroomed groomedgarden, garden,my myaffection affection for birds means I leave spent blooms for birds means I leave spent bloomstoto nourish nourish my my aviary aviaryfriends. friends. Certain Certain plants plantsare areespecially especiallyeffective effectiveatat attracting songbirds, thanks to their attracting songbirds, thanks to theirappealing appealing seed heads. Tall verbena, blanket flower, seed heads. Tall verbena, blanket flower, coneflower, cosmos, tickseed, and zinnias coneflower, cosmos, tickseed, and zinnias are all excellent choices for your garden. are all excellent choices for your garden. I recently observed the positive impact I recently observed the positive impact of these plants during a visit to Knoxville, of these plants during a visit to Knoxville, where a strip mall parking lot was alive with where a strip mall parking lot was alive with finches. It was a unique experience to hear finches. It was a unique experience to hear the birds fluttering and singing as shoppers the birds fluttering and singing as shoppers went about their day. went about their day. Different bird species have varying dietary Different bird species have varying dietary requirements, which often change with the requirements, which often change with the

seasons. seasons.Warblers Warblersand andvireos, vireos,for forexample, example, mainly consume insects, making fall mainly consume insects, making fallmigration migration important importantfor fortheir theirsurvival. survival.InIncontrast, contrast, species specieslike likefinches, finches,grosbeaks, grosbeaks,chickadees, chickadees, and cardinals tend to and cardinals tend toremain remaininingardens gardens year-round, year-round,benefiting benefitingfrom fromthe theseeds seedsand and shelter provided by your plants. shelter provided by your plants. Ordering Orderingseeds seedsfor forthe theupcoming upcomingspring springand and summer seasons is now easier than ever with summer seasons is now easier than ever with aaquick quickinternet internetsearch. search.This Thisallows allowsyou youtoto offer something special for the birds offer something special for the birdsininyour your neighborhood. When selecting fresh seeds neighborhood. When selecting fresh seeds for forplanting, planting,consider considerseveral severalimportant important factors to ensure a successful factors to ensure a successfulgarden. garden.First, First,itit isisessential essentialtotoknow knowyour yourhardiness hardinesszone; zone;for for example, Knoxville is in zone 7 b. Next, example, Knoxville is in zone 7 b. Next,test test your yoursoil soiltotodetermine determineitsitspH pHlevel, level,nutrient nutrient content, and drainage characteristics. I have content, and drainage characteristics. I have found that most soil samples recommend found that most soil samples recommend adding lime, and I particularly appreciate adding lime, and I particularly appreciate seeds that thrive even in less-than-ideal soil seeds that thrive even in less-than-ideal soil conditions. There are various types of seeds conditions. There are various types of seeds to choose from, including conventional, to choose from, including conventional, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, hybrid, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, hybrid, genetically modified, and treated seeds. genetically modified, and treated seeds. Select the kind that best suits your preferences. Select the kind that best suits your preferences. By considering these factors, you can choose By considering these factors, you can choose the right seeds for your garden and support the right seeds for your garden and support your local bird population. your local bird population. Sunflowers are particularly beloved by birds, Sunflowers are particularly beloved by birds, making them the “queen” of flowers for making them the “queen” of flowers for

your yourgarden. garden.Birds Birdsenjoy enjoyallallvarieties, varieties,from from large ‘Mammoth’ heads to multi-branching large ‘Mammoth’ heads to multi-branching types typeslike like‘Valentine.’ ‘Valentine.’Black Blackoiloilsunflowers sunflowers are especially beneficial, as their are especially beneficial, as theirthin-shelled thin-shelled seeds seedsare arehigh highininenergy energyand andeasy easyforforbirds birdstoto crack crackopen. open.I always I alwayskeep keepblack blackoiloilsunflower sunflower seeds in my feeder and have also grown seeds in my feeder and have also grown sunflowers sunflowersinina adedicated dedicatedgarden gardenplot. plot. Watching goldfinches flutter Watching goldfinches flutteraway awayasasI I approach, approach,only onlytotoreturn returnonce onceI’ve I’vepassed, passed,is is a amagical experience. However, it is magical experience. However, it is important importanttotonote notethat thatdeer deerare arefond fondofof young youngsunflower sunflowerplants plantsand andmay mayeateatthem them before they have a chance to produce before they have a chance to produce seed seedheads. heads.While Whilewatching watchingbirds birdsisisalways always rewarding, even local wildlife like a mother rewarding, even local wildlife like a mother deer deerand andher herfawns fawnsseem seemtotoenjoy enjoysunflowers. sunflowers. In addition to food, water is essential for In addition to food, water is essential for birds, particularly during harsh winters. birds, particularly during harsh winters. When setting out water, remember that When setting out water, remember that birds prefer shallow depths of just one birds prefer shallow depths of just one or two inches. To prevent slipping, place or two inches. To prevent slipping, place flat rocks at the bottom of the birdbath so flat rocks at the bottom of the birdbath so birds have a secure place to perch. It’s also birds have a secure place to perch. It’s also important to position shrubs nearby, giving important to position shrubs nearby, giving birds a place to dry off and groom, since they birds a place to dry off and groom, since they are more vulnerable to predators when wet. are more vulnerable to predators when wet. Avoid situating your birdbath in the middle Avoid situating your birdbath in the middle of a large, open lawn, as birds prefer to have of a large, open lawn, as birds prefer to have cover nearby. Thankfully, birds don’t require cover nearby. Thankfully, birds don’t require towels, but they do appreciate the safety and towels, but they do appreciate the safety and comfort provided by surrounding foliage. comfort provided by surrounding foliage.

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MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

THE MEAT MARKET Taste the Difference

Call For Harvesting Appointment

(423) 667-6981

ALL NATURAL

423-507-4300 | www.HydeFarms.net 413 S. White Street, Athens, TN Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm HOLIDAY/WINTER WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

THE PATTERSON FAMILY RESTAURANT LEGACY:

A Homemade Tradition Rooted in Patriotism and Community By Kristin West

In the heart of Monroe County, Tennessee, where rolling hills meet close-knit neighborhoods, there’s a story as rich and comforting as the food served on every plate, the story of the Patterson family. Their legacy is more than just a series of restaurants, it’s a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering devotion to their community, born from the crucible of war and nurtured with hometown pride. From Frontline Kitchens to Family Tables

Those experiences shaped not only his deep patriotism but also his lifelong commitment to serving others, through the power of food and fellowship. After returning from service, Amos married Connie Patterson, a Japanese woman, a union both courageous and controversial during an era marked by tension and suspicion between their countries. Their love was a beacon of hope and unity, reflecting the very spirit of reconciliation and progress. Planting Roots: Maxwell’s and Atkins Restaurants

Amos Patterson’s story begins not in a restaurant kitchen, but on the front lines of two of America’s most defining conflicts, World War II and the Korean War. As a young soldier, Amos found himself thrust into a role that, while far from glamorous, was vital: feeding the troops night after night. Amid the harsh realities of war, with the sounds of battle all around, Amos cooked meals that offered a taste of normalcy, a brief respite for weary soldiers facing unimaginable challenges.

In 1966, fueled by hard work, love, and a dream, Amos and Connie opened Maxwell’s Restaurant in Madisonville. For 12 years, Maxwell’s was more than a place to eat, it was a gathering spot where neighbors shared stories, laughter, and life’s milestones over hearty, homemade meals. The Patterson family’s warmth and dedication made every guest feel like family.

He witnessed the cost of war up close, the friends who never returned home. Yet through it all, Amos felt blessed to survive.

The Pattersons later brought their hospitality to Sweetwater with Atkins Restaurant, running this hometown diner for 10+ years.

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Atkins became famous for “the round table,” a place where the mayor, sheriff, and townsfolk gathered daily. It was where opinions were shared, friendships forged, and community ties strengthened. Everyone had their own favorite dish, but what truly united them was the respect and camaraderie fostered under that roof. And no story of the Patterson legacy would be complete without mentioning Amos’s famous rolls… soft, buttery, and baked fresh daily. So beloved were these rolls that people lined up for holiday To-Go orders, and even today, customers at Doug Patterson’s Countryside Restaurant in Vonore ask for that same cherished recipe.

2025 BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR In 2025, Doug’s impact was formally recognized when the

Monroe County Chamber of Commerce named him Businessman of the Year, an honor that friends, colleagues, and customers say was both well-earned and long overdue. The award reflects not only his business success, but also his integrity, fair dealings, and deep investment in the people around him.

Doug Patterson: Carrying the Flame Forward Doug Patterson grew up steeped in this culture of hard work, football, family, and food. At Madisonville High School, he played defense and quarterback, living out the small town rivalries on the field. Off the field, Doug was expected to work, starting as a busboy and learning the ropes in the kitchen. “If you work hard, you can figure it out,” he says, echoing the values instilled by his parents. After some youthful travels, Doug returned home to Monroe County, ready to continue the family tradition. He took on leadership roles across the hospitality industry, including as Food and Beverage Director at Tellico Village and General Manager at Olive Garden and the Silver Spoon. But his heart remained in his hometown.

aroma of cinnamon. Their cakes, sourced from a local bakery in nearby Etowah, add the perfect sweet finish. Doug also helped launch the Lazy Beagle in Sweetwater with friends, bringing fresh energy and homemade goodness to the county’s grill scene.

Countryside Restaurant in Vonore holds a special place in Doug’s heart because it feels closest to the roots his parents planted. Here, classic home cooking shines with meatloaf, all-you-can-eat fried catfish on Fridays, and luscious banana pudding, all made from scratch. Dockside, nestled near Tellico Marina, comes alive in the warmer months with steak nights, live music on weekends, and a vibe that perfectly captures the spirit of East Tennessee… friends, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone knows your name.

A Taste of Home Across Monroe County Today, Doug’s restaurants are staples of Monroe County life. The Patio Italian Restaurant in Madisonville prepares everything from scratch. Menu favorites include their creamy manicotti and alfredo, lasagna layered with love, and fresh marinara rich with the

More Than Just Food. A Family and Community Doug insists that the true secret to his success is his staff, many of whom started as high school students and have stayed for more than a decade. He treats them like family, mentoring and supporting them with the same care his parents once showed their guests. Known for his generosity, Doug is quick to donate to charities and community events in need, pouring back into the place that has supported him every step of the way. He wants every customer who walks through his doors to feel welcome, comfortable, and cared for just like they’re part of the Patterson family. Great customer service isn’t just a goal for Doug, it’s a passion. Through good times and hard seasons, he has stayed committed to honest, affordable menus, never inflating prices to chase profits. His restaurants have become gathering places for holiday celebrations, class reunions, and countless everyday moments that turn into cherished memories. Alongside him through it all is his wife, Kristy, and their two daughters who are just as much a part of the Patterson legacy as the recipes. Looking Ahead, With Heart Years down the road, when Doug retires, you’ll likely find him spending time with his family, meticulously manicuring his lawn, and enjoying the simple pleasures of hometown life. For all of us who have shared meals at one of his comforting restaurants, Doug Patterson will always be a hometown friend, a man who nourished not just bodies, but hearts and community, one homemade plate at a time.

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By Kristin West

Nestled on Cagle Road in Tellico Plains, Smoky Mountain Mason Jar is the sweet heart of the community, run by hometown baker extraordinaire Shanne Conner Garren. With every custom cake and handcrafted candy, she lives by one simple mantra: “Baking People Happy.” From weddings and birthdays to “just because” treats, Shane brings your dessert dreams to life with creativity and precision. Shanne’s talent shines in her ability to turn any vision into edible art. Hand‑piped details, perfectly wrapped candies, and unique flavor combinations, no request is too big or too whimsical. Each creation carries a personal touch that keeps customers coming back for more. Smoky Mountain Mason Jar is a home‑ town treasure, blending community, artistry, and southern sweetness. Whatever you can imagine, Shane can make it happen, and it will taste as incredible as it looks. Reach out for your next event and let her make your celebration unforgettable! Find her on Facebook: @SmokyMountainMasonJar

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TRAINING TRAINING For The ForOf The Sport Life Sport Of Life WHOLE-BODY WELLNESS FOR LONGEVITY, ENERGY, AND PURPOSE WHOLE-BODY WELLNESS FOR LONGEVITY, ENERGY, AND PURPOSE What does it truly mean to live a long, What does truly long, full life, notitjust in mean years, to butlive in avitality, full life, not just in years, but in vitality, strength, and spirit? For fitness and strength, and spirit? ForHurst, fitnessthe and nutrition expert Bryan answer nutrition Bryan Hurst, answer isn’t aboutexpert chasing youth. It’s the about isn’t about chasing youth. It’s about embracing functional longevity: living with embracing functional longevity: living purpose, mobility, independence, andwith purpose, mobility, independence, and vibrant health at every stage. vibrant health at every stage. Bryan is not a medical doctor but a licensed Bryan is notTherapy a medical doctor butand a licensed Nutritional Practitioner Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Functional Aging Specialist who has worked Functional Aging Specialist who has worked with everyone from elite military personnel with everyone from elite military personnel to older adults seeking to regain strength to adultsHisseeking to regain strength andolder stamina. approach is holistic, and stamina. Hisand approach evidence-based, rootedisinholistic, the belief that evidence-based, and rooted in theifbelief that your best years can still be ahead, you train your best years can still be ahead, if you train and nourish your body with intention. and nourish your body with intention. Let’s explore Bryan’s down-to-earth, effective Let’s explore strategies for Bryan’s buildingdown-to-earth, a foundation ofeffective strategies for building a foundation of lifelong wellness. lifelong wellness.

Live With Purpose Live With Purpose What if the secret to a long, vibrant life had What thewith secret to a long, vibrant less toifdo genetics or fad diets,life andhad less to do with genetics or fad diets, and more to do with purpose? more to do with purpose? In remote corners of the world, some In remote corners of thecelebrate world, some communities routinely birthdays communities routinely celebrate well past 100, thriving with energybirthdays and well past 100, thriving with energy and joy. These “Blue Zones” share a powerful joy. These “Blue Zones” share a powerful common thread, a deep, unwavering sense common thread, a deep, unwavering sense of purpose. of purpose. 44 2 44 44 2

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Contrast this with the reality many face after Contrast thisworking with thehard, reality manyfamilies, face after decades of raising decades of working hard, raising families, and meeting life’s demands. The structure and life’s demands. structure fades,meeting the calendar clears, andThe what once felt fades, the calendar clears, andlike what once felt like freedom can start to feel drifting. like freedom can start to feel like drifting. “The body deteriorates when it stops “The bodysays deteriorates whenstill, it stops moving,” Bryan. “Sitting moving,” says Bryan. “Sitting still, physically or mentally, can age you physically mentally, faster thanortime itself.” can age you faster than time itself.” Purpose isn’t just for the young. It’s a Purpose justand for the young.too It’slate a to choice, aisn’t calling, it’s never choice, a calling, and it’s never too late to rediscover yours. rediscover yours. Try This: Try This: • Volunteer for a local cause that stirs • Volunteer your heart.for a local cause that stirs your heart. • Pick up a creative hobby you never had • Pick creative youof. never had timeup for,a or alwayshobby dreamed time for, or always dreamed of. • Take on a part-time role that brings joy, • Take on a part-time role that brings joy, connection, and movement. connection, and movement. “You were made for more than stillness. “You weremade madefor forimpact.” more than stillness. You were You were made for impact.” Strength Training Is Strength Training Is Non-Negotiable Non-Negotiable As we age, muscle mass naturally declines, As we age, muscle mass naturally a condition called sarcopenia. Thisdeclines, isn’t just aabout condition called sarcopenia. This isn’t just60, looks or strength. For women over about looks or strength. Forfall women over 60, shrinking muscle increases risk. For men, shrinking muscle increases fall risk. For men, it often comes with higher rates of heart itdisease, often comes withand higher of heart diabetes, somerates cancers. disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

“Muscle isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s “Muscle isn’t body’s just about aesthetics, actually your largest organ,”it’s Bryan actually your body’s largest organ,”insulin Bryan explains. “It’s key for metabolism, explains. “It’s key for metabolism, insulin sensitivity, balance, and resilience.” sensitivity, balance, and resilience.” The good news? You don’t need to be The good news?Just You don’t needatoweek be a bodybuilder. two sessions aofbodybuilder. Just two sessions a week strength training, using bodyweight, of strengthbands, training, bodyweight, resistance or using weights, can transform resistance bands, or weights, can transform your health. your health.

Bryan’s Pro Tip: Make strength training Bryan’s Tip: It’s Make strength a weeklyPro habit. one of the training best ainvestments weekly habit. It’s one the best for long-termofhealth and investments for long-term health and independence. independence. Your Blood Sugar Matters Your Blood Sugar More Than YouMatters Think More Than You Think High and unstable blood sugar levels do High blood sugar levels they’re do moreand thanunstable leave you feeling drained, more leave you they’re silentlythan connected to feeling seriousdrained, health issues silently connected to serious health issues like heart disease, Alzheimer’s, cognitive like hearthormone disease, Alzheimer’s, cognitive decline, imbalances, and even decline, hormone imbalances, and even certain cancers. certain cancers.

by Kristin West and Bryan Hurst

“Sugar itself isn’t the enemy,” Bryan says. “The problem is ultra-processed foods and frequent blood sugar spikes, which cause chronic inflammation and metabolic stress.” Wild blood sugar swings can lead to insulin resistance (a risk factor for type 2 diabetes), oxidative stress that harms brain cells, and hormone disruptions affecting mood and weight. The best defense? Stabilize blood sugar by eating “real meals” from wholesome, natural foods. Avoid convenience foods packed with five or more ingredients, often loaded with hidden sugars and additives. Focus on meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which slow sugar absorption and keep energy steady. Move More (And Differently) In past generations, daily life naturally involved far more movement. People walked to shop, tended gardens, did household chores, and stayed physically active without thinking twice. This steady, low-level activity kept muscles strong, metabolism humming, and hearts healthy. In Blue Zones, movement isn’t an extra task, it’s woven into life. Movement supports not only muscle

and heart health but also brain function, mood, inflammation control, and energy. It helps regulate blood sugar and hormones and builds resilience against aging’s wear and tear. Ideas for Daily Movement: • Skip grocery delivery, push your cart. • Take morning or evening walks outdoors. • Use stairs instead of elevators. • Spend time gardening, mowing, or raking. By moving more throughout your day, you are investing in your strength, vitality, and joy. It’s not about intense workouts, it’s about embracing motion as a natural, joyful part of life. Eat & Drink for Life Think back to our grandmothers and their mothers, who cooked with care and simplicity. Milk was delivered in glass bottles. Sodas and ice cream were special treats, not daily staples. Meals were made from scratch, rooted in tradition and nourishment, not trends or quick fixes. You don’t need the latest diet craze to thrive. Often, the best path is a return to wholesome, traditional foods prepared with love.

That Means: • Cooking with natural fats like lard or tallow instead of processed seed oils. • Making more foods from scratch, baking breads, preparing sauces, and cooking whole foods. • Drinking filtered water with trace minerals or a pinch of unrefined sea salt. • Prioritizing hydration. Aim for at least 50 ounces a day. “Good hydration reduces inflammation, supports circulation, and helps your body detox naturally,” Bryan says. Protect and Prioritize Sleep Sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. During rest, your body repairs tissues, balances hormones, regulates blood sugar, and supports memory and metabolism. Chronic sleep loss is linked to weakened immunity, cognitive decline, and higher risks of heart disease and obesity. Long-living cultures align with natural light, avoid overstimulation in the evenings, and often include midday rest, like the Mexican siesta. Modern life often sacrifices sleep, but prioritizing quality rest remains one of the most powerful tools for longevity and overall health.

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Bryan’s Sleep Tips: • Limit screen time at least one hour before bed to reduce blue light exposure and help melatonin production. • Get 5 to 10 minutes of morning sunlight directly in your eyes (no sunglasses) to reset your internal clock and signal your brain that it’s time to be alert. • Stick to a consistent sleep and wake time, even on weekends, to support hormone regulation and deeper sleep cycles. Sleep isn’t a passive state, it’s active healing. Prioritizing it is one of the best long-term investments you can make for your brain, body, and emotional well-being. Faith, Community, and Motivation Faith and community provide both purpose and strength, encouraging you to care for your body, mind, and spirit. As 1 Corinthians

MEET BRYAN HURST

6:19 reminds us, our bodies are temples, and honoring them allows us to live fully and serve faithfully. Whether attending a grandchild’s wedding, going on a mission trip, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, your “why” fuels your health journey.As Bryan says, “God can use you at any age, but we must steward our bodies to be ready to serve.” Living with purpose and faith helps turn everyday choices, what you eat, how you move, how you rest, into acts of vitality and devotion. Final Thought Your body was designed to thrive, not just survive. With movement, nourishing food, a positive mindset, and faith, you can age with strength, joy, and clarity—at any age. It’s never too late to start caring for yourself in meaningful ways. Each step toward healthier habits builds resilience, vitality, and independence, supporting your overall happiness. Living well isn’t about

perfection or quick fixes—it’s about consistent, thoughtful choices that honor your body as a temple and your spirit as a source of purpose. Bryan Hurst and his team at Anytime Fitness provide personalized coaching, strength training, and nutrition guidance tailored to your lifestyle. No matter where you are on your journey, you have the power to create a life full of health, hope, and fulfillment. Start today, and watch thriving become your new normal.

Bryan Hurst has over 22 years of experience helping clients build strength, mobility, and wellness. With a B.S. in Kinesiology from Indiana University, he was hand-selected by the Department of Defense to train active-duty personnel at Naval Station Norfolk. As owner of Anytime Fitness locations in Madisonville, Loudon, Sweetwater, and Harriman, TN, Bryan has created welcoming, community-focused gyms where people of all ages feel supported. As a Certified Functional Aging Specialist and licensed Nutritional Therapy Practicioner, he specializes in helping each client improve strength, mobility, and enhance their quality of life. Behind Bryan’s success is his wife, Megan, a sweet and steady presence who brings balance to their busy family life. As a former professional in the wellness field, she lives it naturally, teaching, nurturing, and creating a healthy, faith-filled home for their precious children. A devoted wife, mother, and homemaker, Megan quietly supports Bryan’s mission with grace and strength, helping make possible the life of purpose they share together. **Please consult your doctor before making any significant lifestyle or dietary changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

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Building Tomorrow Together This is what the American energy future looks like. What tomorrow holds depends on what we do today. That’s why we’re working with you. Together, we’ll create a cleaner environment. We’ll make sure communities can grow sustainably and electricity needs are met. And we’ll keep protecting the region’s land, water, and air. Learn more about how TVA is building tomorrow together at tva.com. 25-174223_09-2025

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Pine trees AND THAT BEAUTIFUL SMELL!

just finished reading an article about the soothing effects of smell. It’s well known that spending time outdoors, whether in a forest or by the ocean, benefits our bodies. Think about how much we love the smell of greenery brought into our homes during the Christmas season. My favorite is the smell of pine, even pine-sol cleaner smells good to me. Pine is a coniferous tree in the genus

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Pinus, in the family Pinaceae. There are about 111 species of pines worldwide. These trees are native to most of the Northern Hemisphere, with 49 species of native pines. They are the most ubiquitous conifer in the United States. Pine trees have a distinctive fragrance, which is calming and refreshing. But did you know that the

scent of pine has a spiritual meaning as well? In various cultures, the pine tree has been revered for their symbolism and spiritual significance. It is considered a symbol of longevity and wisdom in many Native American cultures. Thanks to Ancestry.com, I learned I have a small genetic connection to Cherokee

Indians. Grandmother was right again about our heritage. Native Americans used the pine tree’s needles in smudging ceremonies to cleanse the air and support healing. In Chinese culture, the pine tree is a symbol of longevity, prosperity, and resilience. The tree’s evergreen needles represent endurance and immortality, while its roots symbolize stability. The Japanese consider this tree a symbol of good luck and longevity. They are often depicted in Japanese art and literature, and they are a common motif in traditional Japanese gardens. In the Christian tradition, the pine tree is associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. The tree’s evergreen needles represent eternal life, and its triangular shape is said to symbolize the Holy Trinity. Here in east Tennessee, we have lots of free greenery waiting to be brought into our homes. You can use boughs of pine in lining the mantle, a wreath at the front door, evergreens cascading down the middle of your dining room table. As well as a fabulous fresh Christmas tree. Many of us intuitively sense that nature is good for us. Sitting outside just feels better than being cooped up indoors. A Psychologist Marc Berman, PhD is devoting his career to figuring out why that is, and how individuals and communities can best reap the benefits of natural spaces. In fact, he created an entirely new field of research (environmental neuroscience) focused on how nature affects the human brain and body. When we are in nature, we tend to be more cooperative and social with others. We can also experience a sense of awe. This awe can be accompanied by a sense of being a part of something larger than ourselves, which can increase feelings of self-transcendence. Scientist have even found that interactions with nature can cause people

to think more about others and less about themselves. Spending time in nature boosts mental clarity, mood, and attention span offering measurable benefits like better focus, less anxiety, and more positive thoughts. Nature nurtures social well-being too, promoting kindness, cooperation, and a sense of connection to something greater, especially in green environments. Now, we have the house decorated and enjoyed a walk in the woods. We can include our car in good smells. I found out that pine-scented air fresheners not only make the car smell wonderful but can also contribute to a more relaxed and peaceful driving experience. The scent is said to help reduce stress and improve focus, making long drives much more enjoyable. I am going to buy me three of those little green trees that are ubiquitous in taxis and Ubers. These are easily found at any gas station, although they are not fresh, you can still get your pine endorphins.

Gayle Fisher MASTER GARDENER

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

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MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

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THE LONG GRAY LINE: A Father and Son’s Journey Through The Citadel By Kristin West

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

H The iconic symbol of The Citadel, Padgett-Thomas Barracks was originally built in 1922. The building, which serves as a model for all the barracks, is designed so that the center is a quadrangle onto which each room opens. There is a spiral stairway in each of the four corners. Adjacent to the east sally port is the guard room. The dominant feature of the barracks is the central tower that rises 109 feet and eight stories in the air to overlook the parade ground to the east.

his is a story of family, legacy, and the unbreakable bond forged through tradition and service. It’s the story of a father and son whose shared journey through The Citadel runs deeper than uniforms and parade formations, rooted in a family bloodline defined by discipline, duty, and devotion to country. Since 1842, The Citadel has stood as a steadfast symbol of honor, courage, and commitment to our great nation. In a country built on freedom and forged by sacrifice, The Military College of South Carolina continues to shape the kind of leaders America depends on, men and women of character, conviction, and unwavering resolve. Military academies are not just schools they are proving grounds for discipline, and honor, a defining journey that almost always requires sacrifice as the price of admission. The final product are men and women prepared to serve something greater than themselves. From the battlefield to the boardroom, from the Oval Office to smalltown communities, graduates of America’s military colleges make a difference, quietly, consistently, and with honor.

What Sets Them Apart Military academies are not like other universities. While many colleges focus on academic achievement or career advancement, these institutions prioritize something deeper: honor, service, discipline, and duty. Cadets don’t just attend classes, they live a code. One that can’t be explained, only experienced. What sets them apart isn’t just their curriculum, it’s the culture. The Corps of Cadets is more than a student body; it’s a living laboratory of leadership. Mistakes aren’t simply corrected, they become lessons. Wins aren’t just celebrated, they’re shared. At a time when patriotism is sometimes whispered instead of shouted, these academies remind us that loving your country isn’t about waving a flag, it’s about carrying the weight of its future on your back. For more than 180 years, The Citadel has carried out that mission within its historic gates. The gray stone buildings rise with purpose, modeled after fortress walls, strong, simple, and enduring, much like the spirit they’re meant to build. Set against the deep history of Charleston, where cobblestone streets and oak-shaded courtyards whisper

stories of courage and resilience, The Citadel stands as both a landmark and a calling. Here, cadets are transformed, mind, body, and spirit, then sent beyond those walls to serve their country and communities in countless ways, carrying forward the same code that shaped them. This is the legacy known as the Long Gray Line, a living thread of leadership woven through the fabric of our nation, stretching from the parade ground to the highest ranks of military and civilian life.

A Legacy with a Twist For Camm Garrett Sr., service wasn’t just a value, it was woven into the very fabric of his family’s history. His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all proudly attended the Virginia Military Institute, and his great-uncle held the prestigious position of Commandant of Cadets there. With such deep and honored ties, it might have seemed natural for Camm Sr. to follow the same path.

“The Long Gray Line” has two main meanings: it refers to the final military parade of the academic year for graduating seniors, and more broadly, it represents the distinguished alumni association. The parade symbolizes the transfer of leadership from the senior class to the junior class, while the alumni association signifies the lifelong bond and professional network shared by all graduates.

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

But when the time came to choose a college, he visited both VMI and The Citadel. Despite the strong family tradition, Charleston and The Citadel called to him in a way he couldn’t ignore. “It was a tough decision,” he admits. “But I wanted to see what I was made of. I wanted to go somewhere where no one knew my name, to earn everything from scratch.”

Years later, that same spirit inspired his son, Camm Garrett Jr. After graduating from Walker Valley High School in 2021, Camm Jr. spent a year at Middle Tennessee State University in the ROTC program. Listening to his father’s stories about lifelong friendships forged, grueling training endured, and invaluable leadership lessons learned, he found himself drawn to The Citadel. He applied and matriculated in Fall 2022. “I was incredibly proud of his decision,” Camm Sr. reflects. “Proud of the man he was becoming and proud, as an alumnus, to see him walk that same parade ground.” The Citadel Experience and Tradition Imagine stepping through the iron gates of The Citadel where the air is thick with salt from the harbor, and the sound of boots striking pavement echoes between the walls that have stood for generations. You feel the weight of tradition the moment you arrive. Freshman year, known as “Knob Year”, hits like a tidal wave. There’s no easing in. “You get there and you’re thrown right into it,” says Camm Sr. “Standing at attention, bracing, shouting, memorizing. It’s immediate. Intense. Everything has a purpose.” See the new cadets, “knobs”, lined up under the

Carolina sky, learning to march before they can even catch their breath. They move in rhythm, every step an act of obedience and pride. Their first destination? The barbershop. Razors buzz in unison as hair falls to the floor. “For the guys, mornings are quick,” laughs Camm Jr. “You can roll out of bed and be ready in seconds, because there’s no hair to fuss over while you’re being ordered to stand at attention.” From that moment, life runs with clockwork precision. Feel the pre-dawn chill as cadets fall into formation, the smell of polish on leather shoes, the burn in your muscles as pushups stack by the dozens. Days are long and demanding, filled with cleaning, inspections, drills, and classes. “That’s strategically part of the training. You have to learn to lead yourself before you can lead anyone else,” says Camm Jr.

Through the exhaustion cadets find their rhythm and “embrace the suck”, a phrase that embodies finding joy in the hard times. It’s a beautiful balance between hardship and joy. It’s in the parades, the football games, the shared grind of daily life that they discover what it means to belong.

The Citadel isn’t just a school. It’s a living story, one you can see, hear, smell, and feel, written by those who dared to step inside and live the code. Academics Like No Other

Academics at The Citadel are held to equally high standards, and they’re anything but ordinary. Professors, many with military backgrounds, push cadets hard, blending rigorous coursework with real-world leadership skills. “They know you’re capable of more than you think,” Camm Jr. says.

Every Friday, the parade grounds come alive. See the Corps of Cadets march onto Summerall Field, rows as perfect as a chess board, uniforms sharp, flags snapping in the breeze. The drums beat like a heartbeat for the whole city. Locals and tourists line the streets, but for the cadets, it’s more than a show. It’s a reminder that they’re part of something bigger, something that’s lasted for nearly two centuries.

Unlike a typical university, where the biggest decisions might be whether to hit snooze or what flavor of latte to get before class, The Citadel teaches time management under extreme conditions. You’re not just learning calculus or history, you’re learning to make quick decisions, prioritize under pressure, and stay disciplined when everything in you wants to procrastinate.

Then comes football season. Smell the barbecue smoke drifting through the tailgates, hear the cheers rising from the stands, and feel that surge of pride when the Bulldogs take the field. Alumni slap backs, cadets wave flags, and the Long Gray Line spirit runs deep. Rivalries make it sweeter. “VMI’s the big one,” says Camm Jr., “but beating Furman feels pretty good too.”

Cadets live what they learn. Leadership, teamwork, and accountability aren’t separate classes, they’re woven into every assignment, lab, and group project. Miss a deadline, and it’s not just a grade, it’s a lesson in responsibility. Forget a uniform inspection? You’ll hear about it in no uncertain terms. “It’s like your typical college… if your professors doubled as drill sergeants,” Camm Jr. laughs.

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

Every class, every test, every late-night study session is training for the bigger picture: Building leaders who can think clearly, act decisively, and inspire others… specifically for when the stakes are high and the pressure is real. Discipline, leadership, and focus aren’t just taught, they are inserted into the psyche with surgical precision as second nature, and lived in every part of every day. Garrett Investment Group: A Different Kind of Legacy That same sense of duty and service that defined Camm Sr.’s time at The Citadel extends seamlessly into his professional life. After graduate school at the University of Tennessee, where he initially considered pursuing a PhD in physics, he made a pivotal decision to enter finance, a field where he could serve others in a different, yet equally meaningful way. He began as a paraplanner for a Prudential-affiliated wealth management group in Knoxville, crafting detailed financial plans for clients and learning the importance of long-term strategy, precision, and trust, skills he had honed at The Citadel. In 2000, he moved to Athens to open a Citizens National Bank office, laying the groundwork for what would become a thriving career in investment management. Sixteen years later, in 2016, Camm Sr. launched Garrett Investment Group, located at the corner of Jackson and Green Street in Athens, Tennessee. The firm is a fully independent, full-service investment management company, offering retirement planning, estate strategies, and customized investment solutions for families, businesses, and individuals.

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

“We take a holistic approach,” he says. “Most of the industry focuses on how to accumulate assets. I focus on how to make them last, for the rest of your life.” Beyond the numbers, his approach is rooted in genuine care and responsibility: “I worry, so my clients don’t have to. I want them to focus on faith, family, friends, and the things they love, while I handle the worry about what’s going to happen with their money.” For Camm Sr., Garrett Investment Group isn’t just a business, it’s an extension of the values The Citadel instilled in him. Every client relationship is an opportunity to lead wisely, serve faithfully, and leave a lasting impact, just as he and his family have done in their military and civic lives. Looking Ahead After graduation, Camm Jr. will attend Army training at Fort Knox before commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the Tennessee Army National Guard. He plans to pursue a master’s in marketing at the University of Tennessee and explore a career in real estate. With such strong roots in service, leadership, and family, there’s no doubt great things lie ahead for this modern-day patriot and his family. Their story continues to unfold, marked by honor, hard work, and a commitment to building a future worthy of their proud legacy. A March Shared Hopefully, this story inspires you to walk a little straighter, carry yourself with a little more pride, and live each day more honorable than the last, because after all, that is what it should mean to be an American.

Being a good citizen isn’t just about following rules or waving a flag; it’s about living with integrity, serving others, and taking responsibility for the freedoms we enjoy every day. It’s about striving to be courageous, compassionate, and accountable, even when no one is watching. For both father and son, walking The Citadel’s parade grounds is more than symbolic, it’s sacred. “There’s something about wearing the Ring of Honor, about knowing you’ve been through the same crucible as your dad,” Camm Jr. says. Camm Sr. reflects deeply: “I can’t think of anything I’m more proud of than being an American. The liberties we enjoy, the freedom to believe, to speak, to pursue life as we choose, soldiers have died to protect those rights. I hold the flag, the ideals of this country, and the Constitution in the highest regard. I’m proud of the opportunities everyone is afforded here.” “Back then, I had no idea what The Citadel would mean for my life. And I never imagined my son would choose the same path. But watching him rise, watching him lead, I couldn’t be prouder.” Their story isn’t just about tradition, it’s about values that endure: grit, honor, leadership, family, and love of country. It’s a reminder that each of us has the power, and responsibility, to contribute positively to our communities and our nation. Here’s to one more proud thread in the long, unbroken chain known as The Citadel’s Long Gray Line.

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

Holiday

MADISONVILLE

HAPPENINGS SWEETWATER

SWEETWATER’S POLAR EXPRESS December 7th 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sweetwater Depot Come experience the thrill of the Polar Express and make lasting memories with the family aboard a historic train!

ONCE UPON A SMALL TOWN MUSICAL November 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd

www.sweetwatermainstreet.com

7 p.m. Downtown Madisonville The Downtown Madisonville Alliance invites you to join us for a magical night as we count down together to light up the square in downtown Madisonville.

301 Broad Street, Sweetwater

SHOP SMALL SATURDAY

The show is about a group of people who must save their town from a mean-spirited developer who wants to build a strip mall.

Hours Vary, Check Facebook Downtown Madisonville & Sweetwater

November 29th

www.visitmonroetn.com/events

LIGHTING OF THE SQUARE November 28th

SWEETWATER’S CHRISTMAS MARKET

SWEETWATER’S SMALL TOWN CHRISTMAS

December 5th-7th

Get your holiday shopping done while supporting local small businesses in our community on Saturday, Nov 29th.

November 29th

https://www.visitmonroetn.com/events

Fri & Sat 12-7 p.m. / Sun 12-5 p.m. Downtown Sweetwater

5-8 p.m. Downtown Sweetwater

Shop small, shine bright – find the perfect handmade and specialty gifts from our artisans, crafters, and local shops.

Vendors, Santa photos, kid zone, marshmallow roasting, carriage rides, live nativity, live performances and much more!

MADISONVILLE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL December 13th

www.sweetwatermainstreet.com

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

2 p.m. Madisonville, TN

www.visitmadisonvilletn.com

VONORE

ARTIFICIAL ICE RINK

TELLICO CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT WALK

December 12th, 13th, 14th

December 6th

REENACTMENT - THE KINGS BIRTHDAY November 5th & 6th

Hours Vary By Day Downtown Madisonville

Time TBA Downtown Tellico Plains

Join us behind the Monroe County Courthouse for 3 exciting days of ice skating on our Artificial Ice Rink!

Luminaries throughout downtown will guide you through the perfect old fashioned Christmas experience.

www.visitmadisonvilletn.com

www.visitmonroetn.com/eventspage

Fort Loudoun State Historic Area – discover what life was like during the French and Indian War, as reenactors bring the fort back to life and celebrate the King’s birthday.

TELLICO CYCLING SANTA RIDE

www.tnstateparks.com/parks/fort-loudoun

TELLICO PLAINS

Sat: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. / Sun: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 338 Fort Loudon Rd, Vonore

December 20th

5 p.m. Downtown Tellico Plains Don your Santa suit and bring your bicycle and join us for our annual Santa Ride around historic Downtown Tellico Plains.

DOWN HOME CHRISTMAS MARKET November 29th

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Downtown Tellico Plains Shop for all of your favorite gifts with a local flare from our hometown vendors during Shop Small Saturday. www.visitmonroetn.com/eventspage

AREA CHRISTMAS PARADES Sweetwater – December 5th at 6 p.m. Madisonvile – December 13th at 7 p.m. Vonore – December 13th, TBA Tellico Plains – December 20th, TBA Athens – December 1st at 6:30 p.m. Etowah – December 4th at 7 p.m. Englewood – December 5th at 7 p.m. Niota – December 14 at 7 p.m. Loudon – December 13th at 6 p.m.

FORT LOUDOUN 18th CENTURY CHRISTMAS December 6th

10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 338 Fort Loudon Rd, Vonore Fort Loudoun State Historic Area will ring in the holiday season with a celebration of Christmas as experienced by soldiers during the French and Indian War. www.tnstateparks.com/parks/fort-loudoun

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

ATHENS

THE MAGIC OF WOOL November 13th – December 12th

DIAMOND PAINTING ORNAMENTS December 6th

11 a.m. – Living Heritage Museum 522 W Madison Ave / Athens, TN 37303 Join us for a fun and easy craft for the holiday season! This diamond painting class is great for all ages. $5 or free for members.

HOLIDAY HOUSE November 13th

The Arts Center 320 North White Street, Athens, TN, 37303

5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Living Heritage Museum 522 W. Madison Ave., Athens

Iliyana Skrobanska began “painting” with wool as a means to express her artistic vision by making landscape and abstract art. This exhibit is available to the public for free during regular business hours.

Enjoy a festiva evening of Christmas shopping, food, and music performed by Harmony & G.R.I.T.S. Tickets are $35, and can be purchased at the Museum.

AthensArtsCouncil.org/upcomingevents

www.livingheritagemuseum.org

A PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT

PLAY: A SOULFUL CHRISTMAS December 5th - 7th

www.livingheritagemuseum.org

ARTS ON THE SIDE November 18th 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. – The Arts Center 320 North White Street, Athens, TN, 37303

November 13th – December 12th

This free gathering includes a soup supper (vegan option available) catered by ARAMARK starting at 5:30 PM and is followed by your choice of three arts activities starting at 6 PM, then ends with a Table Read of Mean Girls (PG-13) at 7 PM.

The Arts Center 320 North White Street, Athens, TN, 37303

Showtimes Vary, Check Website The Arts Center

Brian K. Miller has been described by National Geographic as one of “our finest… photographers.” This exhibit is available to the public for free during regular business hours.

A festive Christmas concert with the heart of Gospel and the groove of R&B; this is a celebration of love, community, and the soulful sounds of the season.

AthensArtsCouncil.org/upcomingevents

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

DOWNTOWN OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS December 6th 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. 320 North White Street, Athens, TN, 37303

CHRISTMAS MARKET November 29th & 30th Starting at 10 a.m. Downtown Etowah

Enjoy a day filled with music, fun and crafts on the Courthouse square and enjoy the lighting of the Christmas tree.

Join us for live music, food, crafts, gifts and holiday magic while shopping local for those special Christmas gifts!

AthensArtsCouncil.org/upcomingevents

www.enterpriseetowah.com

MERRY TUBA CHRISTMAS December 20th 7 p.m. Historic Gem Theater, Etowah, TN

Come out and listen to some great Christmas tunes played by tuba players from all over East Tennessee! www.enterpriseetowah.com

NIOTA

ETOWAH

COTTONFEST November 15th

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Historic Gem Theater, Etowah, TN Come enjoy live bluegrass music while helping support a good cause. Proceeds go toward pancreatic cancer research. www.makeitinmcminn.org

SANTA’S HIWASSEE HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDE December 6th thru 22nd Duration: 1hr 15min Ride 9406 Highway 411, Delano, TN

NIOTA’S OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS Date TBD, Check Facebook Niota Depot 201 W. Main Street, Niota

Enjoy a picturesque round-trip train ride through the Hiwassee River Gorge this holiday season. Write a letter and meet Santa and enjoy a delicious chocolate chip cookie!

Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, including photos with Santa, craft vendors, food, music, and a tree lighting ceremony.

www.tvrail.com

www.makeitinmcminn.org

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

KNOXVILLE

FARRAGUT

COUNTDOWN TO LIGHT THE PARK November 24th

CAMPBELL STATION SKATE November 22nd 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. 101 N Campbell Station Rd Farragut, TN 37934

ELF – IN CONCERT November 23rd 3:00 p.m. Civic Auditorium

5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. 405 N Campbell Station Rd Farragut, TN 37934

500 Howard Baker Ave., Knoxville, TN

10…9…8…kickoff the holiday season as the Town of Farragut spreads holiday cheer with more than 100,000 lights. This FREE event is perfect for the whole family!

This holiday season Buddy travels to New York—with a live symphony orchestra! Experience John Debney’s wonderful score as the full film plays on the big screen.

VisitFarragut.org/events

www.visitknoxville.com/events/

LIGHT THE PARK

FANTASY OF TREES

We are back for another year of holiday fun! Our synthetic ice rink, nestled in the heart of town, is surrounded by a dazzling display of holiday lights. Make a day of it and enjoy nearby shopping and dining VisitFarragut.org/events

November 25th thru January 1st

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

November 26th thru 30th

Founder’s Park – Free Admission Farragut, TN 37934

Knoxville Convention Center 701 Henley St., Knoxville

From dusk to 10 p.m. nightly, the holiday lights will be on along Campbell Station Road from the I-40 commuter lot to the Campbell Station Inn Plaza at the intersection of Campbell Station Road and Kingston Pike.

East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Fantasy of Trees presented by Axle Logistics is returning in 2025. This holiday tradition is the hospital’s largest fundraiser, attracting nearly 60,000 people during the week of Thanksgiving.

VisitFarragut.org/events

www.visitknoxville.com/events/

CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY November 21st thru December 31st Hours & Events Vary – Check Website Knoxville, TN

Christmas in the City is Knoxville’s most anticipated winter festival with our city dressed for the holidays with lighted trees and decorations! There are dozens of events and activities offered throughout the season guaranteed to bring holiday cheer! Events are happening around Knoxvile from November 21 to New Year’s Eve. Most events have something for all age ranges to enjoy! www.knoxvilletn.gov/christmas

THANKSGIVING LUNCH November 27th

1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Ancient Lore Village 7107 Sevierville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920 Gather your loved ones for a traditional Thanksgiving Lunch at Ancient Lore Village, where the magic of our storybook setting makes your holiday celebration truly unforgettable. Seats are limited.

SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS November 1st thru January 4th Dollywood The spirit of the season shines brightest during America’s Best Christmas Event. Here, the skies dance with the glimmer of more than 6 million twinkling lights. www.dollywood.com

www.ancientlorevillage.com

PIGEON FORGE

FREE FAMILY NIGHT AT MUSE KNOXVILLE

THE ISLAND WINTERFEST

THE ISLAND’S NYE CELEBRATION

The Island in Pigeon Forge

November 22nd

December 31st The Island in Pigeon Forge

On the 4th Friday of each month from 5 - 7 PM, Muse Knoxville in Chilhowee Park is open FREE to the public. Come connect with community and make new discoveries in our museum.

Winterfest at The Island in Pigeon Forge is unlike any experience in the Smokies with millions of lights, one of the region’s most spectacular walk-through Christmas tree, and more, our 23-acre property lights up as the sun goes down to create a holiday ambiance you’re sure to love! Photos with Santa at 5pm, concert at 7pm!

The evening ends when we countdown to 2026 and ring in the New Year with Midnight Fireworks! This amazing display of fireworks can be seen from all around the area. The Island New Year’s Eve Fireworks soundtrack will be broadcast LIVE on Knoxville radio station WIVK 107.7 FM. A great way to kick off 2026 with a bang!

www.themuseknoxville.org

www.islandinpigeonforge.com

Last Friday of Each Month 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Chilhowee Park

HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025 MONROE LIFE

GATLINBURG

NEW YEAR’S EVE LIGHTS OF WONDER GATLINBURG HARVEST FESTIVAL

December 1st thru 8th Occuring Daily, Check Website Gatlinburg Convention Center

FESTIVAL OF TREES November 25th - 30th Gatlinburg Convention Center This year marks the 52nd year of Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees, an annual holiday tradition that benefits the Boys and Girls Club of The Smoky Mountains and the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The clubs offer youth a safe place to learn and grow while not at home or school.

Unique handcrafted gifts made by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community are offered as they host their annual Christmas show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center.

November 29th

Enjoy the NYE celebrations with a view like never before. Come celebrate at SkyPark for a bird’s eye view of the fireworks and drone show plus a silent disco experience brought to you by Ear Jams Silent Disco! www.gatlinburg.com

www.gatlinburg.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION

www.gatlinburg.com

FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA

December 31st

Gatlinburg SkyPark 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

FANTASY OF LIGHTS CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 31st

December 5th

Gatlinburg, TN

12 p.m. to 4 p.m. 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Downtown Gatlinburg

Gather around the cozy hearth for a festive experience featuring free photos with Santa— just bring your own phone or camera to capture the moment.

The award-winning parade will bring a cheerful procession to downtown Gatlinburg with festive floats, joyful marching bands, larger-than-life holiday balloons, and more.

Join us for a night of free fun with drones, ball drop and fireworks finale. Enjoy a spectacular illuminated drone show, and a free live concert, a ball drop under the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle and a festive firework finale, all starting at 10:30 p.m.

www.gatlinburg.com

MONROE LIFE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2025

Twenty-Twenty five

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