Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Thursday, December 5th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Join Us for a Season of Hope
One of the area’s most popular tourist attractions, The Biltmore Estate, has recently reopened after their forced closure due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene when it ripped through Western North Carolina.
Portions of Biltmore’s grounds and some of its buildings did suffer significant flood damage from Helene. However, Biltmore House, the Conservatory, winery, gardens and the estate’s hotels received minimal or no damage from the storm.
The holiday season is now underway for the 8,000-acre estate employing approximately 2,400 people. While the Biltmore House, restaurants, some trails, and other estate attractions will be open to visitors, select trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice, and some areas will have limited access.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore, said in a statement. “As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses and friends.”
According to Marissa Jamison, a Biltmore spokesperson, no storm-related fatalities were reported among staff; though several staff members did lose their homes, all have been accounted for.
Some are also out of work due to the decline of tourism in the area due to the storm. Biltmore is hopeful that all staff members will return in phases now that they have reopened.
Lizzie Whitcher, floral displays manager who has worked at Biltmore for 10 years and leads holiday decoration operations, said people in the Asheville area need something special this year. “It felt a little crazy to be decorating for Christmas when there are people who literally lost everything, but we had to remind ourselves, we’re not just doing this for Biltmore. We’re doing this for this whole area,” she said.
Chase Pickering, vice president of Biltmore House Guest Experience and Operations and great-great-grandson of George and Edith Vanderbilt said reopening was important for the local economy. The entire staff at The Biltmore House are working to bring joy (and visitors) to the area through their hugely popular Christmas at Biltmore events.
“We are here in Western North Carolina. We are a resilient community, and Biltmore has for generations ― for five generations now ― been a beacon of hope,” Pickering said. “And this community stands for resiliency. It’s moments like this where we come together, and we find a way to come back stronger and support each other and that is what resiliency means for WNC.”
Offering good tidings of comfort and joy, Christmas at Biltmore awaits you.
Now–January 5, 2025
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Candlelight Christmas Evenings, the glow of candlelight is a reminder that we can weather any storm. Plan your visit to Biltmore today to enjoy Christmas with those you love.
From Biltmore House to Antler Hill Village, fragrant wreaths, glittering garland, and thousands of sparkling ornaments create a one-of-kind holiday oasis. Dazzling by day, the house is truly magical during Candlelight Christmas Evenings, a 40-year tradition not to be missed.
Select ticket options include Chihuly at Biltmore and FREE next-day grounds access.
An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Chihuly at Biltmore – A Thrilling New Exhibition
Now–February 2, 2025
Featured in museums and gardens around the world, including the spectacular 2018 Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition, Dale Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works have captivated millions.
Specially curated for Biltmore, a new experience of the world-renowned artist’s iconic creations awaits your discovery within the intimate gallery setting of Amherst at Deerpark®.
Reserve your admission tickets and special admission-inclusive overnight packages for this remarkable experience today.
Antler Hill Village Illumination
Now-February 17, 2025
Included with admission
Bask in the glow of a glittering cascade of lights illuminating trees, buildings, and the pathways that connect Antler Hill Village’s unique shops, restaurants, and Winery. Experience this must-see part of the Christmas at Biltmore tradition, which includes festive displays adorning our relaxing Winery, where complimentary tastings await.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings – An Unforgettable Holiday Evening
Now–January 4, 2025
A majestic Norway spruce and pathway luminaries welcome you to America’s Largest Home®. Inside, thousands of ornaments reflect the soft glow of candles, fireplaces, and twinkle lights. The magic continues in Antler Hill Village, which is festooned with glittering lights, ornaments, and displays.
Santa at the Bandstand
Included with admission
Capture that classic Christmas moment you and your children will never outgrow. Afterward, explore all that Antler Hill Village has to offer: ice cream at The Creamery, friendly animals at our Farmyard, plus Pisgah Playground, shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery.
Dates available: November 29-30, December 1, 7-8, 14-23
CHECK KNOW BEFORE YOU GO for directions
https://www.biltmore.com/visit/visitor-information/know-before-you-go/
About Biltmore
Established in 1895 in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore is as impressive today as it was more than a century ago. In addition to Biltmore House, the 250-room French chateau known as America’s Largest Home®, this beloved National Historic Landmark includes 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. Comprised of managed forests and farmland, a working vineyard, 20+ miles of nature trails, Antler Hill Village and its shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery, the estate also features such splendid overnight accommodations as a four-star Inn, a charming hotel, and a distinctive collection of private cottages. All this, plus seasonal exhibitions, outdoor activities, and live entertainment make Biltmore a one-of-a-kind destination.
Privately owned and maintained by his descendants, Biltmore remains true to George Vanderbilt’s original vision: a self-sustaining Blue Ridge Mountain estate and a luxurious retreat amid year-round natural beauty. Whether as a day trip or multi-night getaway, to experience Biltmore is to experience a legacy of gracious hospitality, timeless elegance, and an inspired sense of wonder. To learn more, go to Biltmore.com.
Thursday, December 5th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Sirrabelle Jewelry & Gifts
Thursday, December 5th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on The Meaning of Advent
The word “advent” seems to pop up this time of year, yet many of us don’t quite know what its meaning or importance is. We’ve heard the term before, usually in a religious context, but we’re still not certain what Advent is exactly. Dictionaries define the advent as “an arrival or beginning.” For Christians, Advent is the four-week period before Christmas, a day designated long ago to observe the earthly birth of Jesus Christ. Advent season has been observed by many different groups, not all Christian, since time immemorial. It is a 28-day period set aside for believers to not only reflect on the Messiah’s long-ago arrival as an infant but also focus on the significant impact of Jesus’s life, His subsequent death, resurrection, and imminent return.
Although Advent is mainly observed in Christian communities worldwide, it is celebrated and observed in a variety of ways. Secular or non-Christians use Advent as a “countdown to Santa” and have a calendar to do just that. Children the world over await Christmas each year with great anticipation, an anticipation that surges with each passing day of the Advent calendar. Puzzle pieces are provided by parents for calendars in hopes their kids mark the passing of time until “The Big Day” arrives when they can finally receive & open their long-awaited presents. Which, brings us to the Big Question we should all pause to consider: “Why are we awaiting December 25 this year?”
As this year’s Advent begins, perhaps we should examine the importance of this season. Is it all just an annual ritual of red-and-green decorations that get brought out after Thanksgiving, set up, and then repacked & returned to our storage areas sometime after “The Big Day”? Or is it a time to remember the very reason for the season – Jesus’s earthly birth? If we perhaps try imagining how the various participants in the original Advent spent their 28-day season, we can see a clearer picture of Advent. Think, if you will, of the wise men who journeyed from a faraway land and followed the Star of Bethlehem; or the curious local shepherd boys; or King Herod who decreed the death of all Jewish male infants; or Jesus’s earthly father Joseph; or Mary, the young, expectant mother carrying the infant Jesus. Meditating on the way they spent their time anticipating and preparing for Christ’s arrival can be a purposeful exercise leading to our own sense of why we are awaiting the anniversary of Jesus’s birth. Such a meditation could produce truly meaningful, intangible “presents” – the type that never needs wrapping, unwrapping, or exchanging.
Throughout December, Pastor Dave Talley will be presenting four messages on Advent, each focusing on a different person or character involved in the original Christmas. We warmly and openly invite you and yours to visit us during the Christmas season and join us in celebration of Advent and the birth of our Savior! Let’s call it “our Advent Adventure”.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TELLICO VILLAGE
205 Chota Road, Loudon, TN 37774
(865) 408-0110 | www.fbctv.org
Monday, November 4th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on The Designer Secret to Elegant Holiday Décor: How High-Quality Florals and Ribbons Transform Your Seasonal Space
As the holiday season approaches, make your decorations stand out with high-quality florals and ribbons, especially in Christmas trees and garlands. The right materials can transform your festive arrangements from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that delights guests. Here’s how these elements can elevate your holiday decor—and how Design Decor makes luxury effortless.
Small Details Make a Big Impact.
While budget-friendly options may seem appealing, premium florals and ribbons bring unmatched texture, color, and elegance. As a woman-owned business, Design Decor simplifies the selection process, offering designer-curated decor that ensures a cohesive, beautiful look.
Real-Touch Florals: The New Standard for Luxury
Today’s high-end faux florals, like those in Design Decor’s collections, use real-touch technology for lifelike texture and color. These florals stay vibrant throughout the season, requiring no maintenance. From dining centerpieces to cascading tree decorations, our real-touch pieces keep your holiday decor looking fresh all season. Our Norfolk Pine Collection are our best-sellers nationwide this season, their vibrant colors and real touch texture will deliver season after season!
Transforming Trees and Garlands with Florals
Incorporating real-touch florals into Christmas trees and garlands adds depth and elegance. Imagine white peonies or burgundy roses nestled among branches, instantly elevating the traditional tree. Garlands draped along mantels or staircases can be enhanced with florals like cedar or frosted berries for a touch of classic charm or modern winter style. You’ll see examples of this in our Southern Charm garland where we used big bold magnolias for a festive touch.
Ribbons: The Finishing Touch
Ribbons are essential for adding texture and luxury to decor, especially on trees and garlands. Our high-quality velvet, silk, and wired-edge ribbons hold their shape beautifully, allowing you to create graceful loops and bows. Just a few well-placed ribbons can make your decor look polished and complete. The use of quality ribbon is a game-changing practice used by professional decorators.
Stress-Free Designer-Curated Décor
Design Decor takes the guesswork out of decorating with exclusive, handcrafted sets that include everything needed for a holiday transformation. This season, designer Amy Barnett introduces 12 unique themes, from traditional “Home for the Holidays” to the modern “Nature’s Opulence.” Each limited-edition set ensures your decor is unique and luxurious.
Crafting Your Holiday Story with Design Décor
The story your home tells during the holidays starts with the right decor. At Design Decor, we’re passionate about providing the luxury elements that add beauty and warmth to your space. With our curated collections, decorating becomes effortless and elegant. We believe high-end home decor should be accessible to busy homeowners who value quality. Design Decor offers a full service that sets up and removes your decorations at the season’s end—no lifting required. Choose to lease or purchase our limited-edition designs and keep your home looking fresh with minimal effort.
About Design Decor
Design Decor is a luxury home decor brand specializing in seasonal decor, featuring real-touch florals, luxury ribbons, and designer-crafted pieces. Shop online at designdecorknoxville.com, visit our Knoxville showroom, or schedule an in-home consultation. Follow us @designdecorknoxville for more inspiration.
Design Décor Knoxville
6217 Baum Drive
West Knoxville
www.DesignDecorKnoxville.com
Monday, November 4th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Vonore Emporium
Monday, November 4th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on The Loudon County Concert Band Presents
Celebrate Christmas on Thursday, December 12, 2024
The Loudon County Concert Band is pleased to announce their upcoming Christmas concert for Thursday, December 12, 2024. The theme of the concert is Celebrate Christmas. The concert will be held at The Venue at Lenoir City, 7690 Creekwood Park Blvd, Lenoir City, TN 37772.
Featuring outstanding arrangements of perineal Christmas classics, the concert includes Greensleeves, Silent Night, Go Tell It on the Mountain, Do You Hear What I Hear, Deck the Halls, and Sleigh Ride. The concert will also feature the outstanding medley, A Christmas Festival, by Leroy Anderson, as well as a medley of Christmas songs from Broadway, and a medley of tunes from the classic Christmas film, The Polar Express. The Concert Band is also pleased to welcome The Tellico Voices, under the direction of Dennis Loy, as their special musical guests for this concert.
Tickets for Celebrate Christmas with the Loudon County Concert Band are $10.00 in advance or $15.00 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting the band’s website at www.loudonconcertband.org, and clicking on the “Events” tab.
The Loudon County Concert Band is a volunteer community group of nearly 50 musicians from Loudon County and the surrounding area. Under the musical direction of David Whipple, Jr., the band plays a variety of concert band literature including seasonal music, thematic pieces, songs from film and Broadway, patriotic marches, arrangements of music from composers like Leroy Anderson, George Gershwin and Aaron Copeland, as well as original works composed for concert band.
The band is always looking for new members and welcomes anyone high school aged and up. We rehearse on Thursday evenings at 6:30 in the music suite of the Community Church at Tellico Village. If you would like to join us, all you need to do is contact either our music director, David Whipple, Jr. at (865) 335-1543, or our manager, Kevin Meyer at (586) 929-2333, and let us know you are joining us so we can make sure we have music ready for you.
The Loudon County Concert Band relies solely on the financial donations of individuals and businesses to operate. The band is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and all contributions are tax exempt. If you are interested in supporting the work of the band as either an individual or corporate sponsor, please contact our manager, Kevin Meyer at (586) 929-2333. You may also email us at loudonconcertband@gmail.com.
The Loudon Concert Band is a proud member of The Association of Concert Bands.
Friday, September 27th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Groovy Hues — Peace, Love, Paint, Powerwash!
This month, we had the opportunity to interview Josh Peters, owner of Groovy Hues of Greater Knoxville. If you’ve passed their beautiful vehicles on the road and wondered what they do, Groovy Hues is a “fresh” business in West Knoxville focused on improving the appeal of your home (or business!) through painting, staining, wallpapering, power wash, and soft wash.
MV: Tell us a little about yourself and Groovy Hues.
Josh: Glad to! I am a resident of West Knoxville. My wife and I planted roots here 10 years ago after the birth of our first child to be closer to Knoxville-area friends and family. Now with three children, we can be found on any given weeknight or weekend with friends at parks, on hiking or mountain bike trails, deep in a kimura at the jiu jitsu academy, deep in rough on some golf course, or deep in thought over a coffee shop latte (perhaps enjoying our customers’ thoughtful reviews!).
I entrust day-to-day operations to my General Manager, Brandi Wheaton, and my Operations Manager, Will Whittaker — a pair that bring the best of customer service, product and process knowledge, and dedication to quality work and communication. And while we are locally owned and operated, we are part of a national franchise that provides access to nationally-negotiated pricing, advanced software and training, and other benefits that come from scale.
MV: What services do you provide?
Josh: We provide full service residential or commercial interior and exterior painting and staining, as well as wallpapering, power washing, and soft washing. We also offer what we call the Custom Curb Appeal program—a facelift that extends beyond just painting and power washing to improve your home’s vibe and value. With our team, you’ll have access to expert guidance and support from start to finish. Our team can help you choose the perfect colors, finishes, and techniques that will bring your vision to life. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to provide top-quality results that you’ll love for years to come.
MV: Do you clean roofs and what process do you use to protect them?
Josh: Yes, absolutely, we clean roofs. We’ve all seen houses with those unpleasant dark streaks on roof shingles. What many don’t know is that these are often caused by a type of bacteria that feeds on materials in the shingles and can cause damage over time. Power washing is typically ineffective against the bacteria while also causing further damage to shingles. Our process is to kill the bacteria with safe and environmentally friendly chemicals in a process known as a “soft wash.” Soft washing is preferred whenever dealing with living organisms (e.g., lichen, algae, moss, and gloeocapsa magma) or more sensitive substrates (e.g., wood and siding). We also make sure that we protect both the siding and all vegetation around the house.
MV: Can you tell us about your painting process?
Josh: As part of the free estimating process, we walk the job asking questions to ensure that we understand what the homeowner would like to achieve and what is important to them. The type of paint and colors that are needed are determined at the time of the estimate and we only use top quality paints and stains. Once scheduled, we show up as promised, ready to get any project started, no matter the size. Every painting project is assigned a project manager who communicates with the customer and oversees every detail. We fully protect the area with thorough covering of furniture and flooring. At the conclusion of the job, the project manager and homeowner will walk over the project and do a thorough inspection. Only once the customer is satisfied are they invoiced. We stand behind our work comes with a 2-year guarantee, ensuring that our customers remain satisfied.
MV: How firm are your estimates?
Josh: First of all, our estimates and consultations are free. Many companies price high and offer discounts; we do our best to price reasonably the first time. When working to fit a budget, we have many options, including adjustments to scope, paint selections, and even scheduling! We also offer same day financing as an option to spread payments, as many of our customers are familiar with from other past investments. But as much as we’d like to accommodate everyone, there are times that we can’t match a price; we take pride in both happy customers and quality workmanship; to stand behind our work as we do, we won’t cut corners.
MV: Can you tell us a little about your company culture?
Josh: Our company culture is a reflection of who we are as individuals. I think you get a great sense for who we are in our Google review commentary which often spans paragraphs. We take great pride in not only WHAT we do but HOW we do it. We get our satisfaction from happy customers and from knowing that we did right by them on every job, whether or not they even notice.
MV: What are your hours?
Josh: Monday- Friday 8am-5pm. We are closed on major holidays.
MV: How do customers get started with you?
Josh: Feel free to give us a ring (865-221-1699) or schedule on our website (GroovyHues.com)!
MV: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Josh: Yes! Briefly, why should you choose Groovy Hues?
>> We work with you to create that joy and appeal that brings your home to life, both inside and out.
>> We proactively communicate and diligently manage the work to ensure a top-notch experience.
>> We use proven processes and high-quality supplies for a lasting finish with a 2-year guarantee.
>> We offer on-the-spot financing, helping you find a payment schedule that makes sense for your project.
Let us know how we can help with that painting or curb appeal project! Our team is passionate about helping you achieve your dream space, and we go above and beyond to ensure you’re happy. Getting your home or business painted has never been this easy – just contact us now to learn more about our services and schedule your free consultation!
Groovy Hues Painting
1624 Schaeffer Rd, Ste 104
Knoxville, TN 37932
www.groovyhues.com
865-221-1699
Friday, September 27th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Celebrating Reformation
By Pastor Phil Vickers
Last month our congregation celebrated its tenth anniversary. This month, we have another anniversary to celebrate.
On October 31st, we will celebrate the 507th anniversary of the Reformation. Halloween is an odd time to celebrate a Church anniversary you might think, and you have a point. Quite honestly, it’s pretty hard to get children to focus on the history of the Reformation with Halloween going on at the same time. But we are wedded to history, and it was on Halloween night in 1517 that Martin Luther is said to have nailed his 95 theses on the door of the castle Church in Wittenburg Germany, thus symbolically beginning the Protestant Reformation. He did this because the next day is All Saint’s Day, and he wanted to post his theses in time for all the Church goers to see them.
Luther, at the time, was not intending to split the Church or create a new Church. His theses were a call to debate and hopefully for change. The Church in the Middle Ages had become corrupt and misled. Most importantly Christ, grace, faith, and the scriptures were no longer at the center of the Church’s message and practice.
God works in mysterious ways. A German monk nailing some thoughts to a door 507 years ago led to a little Church in Tellico Village still having the name Lutheran on our sign. Even though a lot of people might not know the history, and might even be confused or thrown off by the name “Lutheran” (it is a little too close to “Lucifer” for good marketing practices), we still keep the name because we are still trying to do what Luther was trying to do, which is to keep Christ, grace, faith and the scriptures at the heart of all we do as a community. When we can do that, we tend to see that things go well.
We don’t celebrate the Reformation as a victory of one Church over another. We celebrate it because it is one example of how God keeps showing up to reform Churches, but also individuals. The Holy Spirit reforms hearts and minds so that we can live the lives we were intended by God to live, and that is surely something to celebrate.
We invite you this month to come and see what God is up to in our little community of faith. All are welcome to come and worship and also to participate in Holy Communion. We celebrate an open table because it is a reflection that God’s grace is available for everyone. Our service is easy to follow and everything you need to know is right in the bulletin. (That part was real important to me when I became a Lutheran, as I don’t like surprises). Basically, first you sit, then you stand, then you sit, then you stand, then you shake hands with the people around you, sit, take communion, stand, and then come have coffee and donuts in the fellowship hall. Also, if you have trouble standing up that part is optional too. For 507 years now as we have been standing and sitting and taking communion, the Holy Spirit has been coming to reform and bless lives, and for that we are indeed thankful. Happy Reformation month, and please do come see us.
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church
143 Chota Center, Loudon, TN
(across from the POA office)
Phone: 865-816-4756
shepherdofthelaketn.org
Friday, September 27th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Keener Homes, Inc.
Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on Invest in Garage Flooring that Lasts
In recent years, the trend of investing in garage floor coatings has gained significant traction among homeowners, and this growth shows no signs of slowing down. A recent industry report reveals that consumer demand for garage flooring has surged by more than 20 percent in recent years, reflecting the increasing importance homeowners place on this often-overlooked part of the house.
Given that the garage floor endures more daily wear and tear than any other surface in the home, it’s crucial for it to be not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable enough to withstand the heat from vehicle tires and the impact from tools and heavy objects. However, not all garage floor coatings are created equal, and selecting the right one is key to ensuring longevity and performance.
Many large home improvement stores offer DIY epoxy garage floor kits, which are popular due to their affordability and ease of use. These kits typically include water-based epoxies that serve as a good basecoat. However, they often lack a high-performance urethane topcoat and proper concrete preparation, both of which are essential for a long-lasting finish. As a result, these DIY systems are prone to premature failure, leading to frustration and additional costs for homeowners.
Grind Preparation, Not Acid Wash
PremierGarage of Knoxville, recognized as the area’s flooring experts, emphasizes the importance of following industry best practices when selecting and applying garage floor coatings. One of the most critical factors in ensuring the durability of a concrete coating is the preparation of the floor. Proper preparation involves grinding the surface to create the necessary texture for a strong bond between the epoxy and the concrete. While some companies opt for the less expensive method of acid washing, this approach does not create a sufficient bond, increasing the likelihood of the floor failing prematurely.
Full Flake Coverage, Not Partial
Another key practice is ensuring full flake coverage rather than partial. Decorative flakes, which are broadcast into the epoxy, serve both a decorative and functional purpose. These flakes increase the thickness of the epoxy layer and act as an additional bonding agent. Because flakes are more flexible than solid epoxy, they help prevent chipping when objects are dropped on the floor. Fully saturating the base coat with flakes makes it up to three times thicker than if only a minimal amount of flakes were used.
Commercial-Grade Topcoat
Finally, applying a commercial-grade polyurethane topcoat is vital for the garage floor to withstand the test of time. Polyurethane offers superior resistance to chemicals, slips, UV rays, and scratches, while also retaining its gloss over time. This non-porous coating cures to be twice as hard as traditional epoxies, making it resistant to gasoline, auto fluids, paint thinner, pesticides, and other harsh chemicals.
For homeowners looking to create a long-lasting garage floor, PremierGarage of Knoxville offers expert guidance and high-quality solutions. With the right flooring, along with custom cabinets and storage solutions, your garage can become one of the most functional and attractive spaces in your home.
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION
PremierGarage
(865) 947-8686
PremierGarage.com
