Shopper News blog: Webb player has winning connection — her mom

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BEARDEN

Webb player has winning connection — her mom

John Shearer, Shopper News correspondent 

Webb School junior Casey Collier had just been named the Division II-A East region basketball tournament MVP on Feb. 17 and was proudly discussing the team’s success when she was asked a question she was expecting.

Webb's Casey Collier dribbles the ball during a state quarterfinal game between Webb and CPA at Webb Friday, Feb. 23, 2018. Webb defeated CPA 40-19.

It was: What has it been like playing for her mother, longtime head coach Shelley Collier.

“I actually get asked that question a lot,” she said with a laugh before adding that she does not know anything different. “I’ve been playing for her basically my whole life.”

Her mother also gets asked periodically another question she is usually expecting: What was it like playing for Pat Summitt at Tennessee. A point guard on the Lady Vols’ first national championship team in 1987, she later went on to be a graduate assistant for Summitt before embarking on a high school coaching career now totaling roughly three decades.

Webb coach Shelley Collier yells to players on the court during a state quarterfinal game between Webb and CPA at Webb Friday, Feb. 23, 2018. Webb defeated CPA 40-19.

But she has never forgotten the many lessons Summitt taught her, and one particularly stands out.

“Pat always said, ‘You win with people,’ ” Collier said. “It’s not all about winning games. It is about the relationships you have along the way in your journey.”

As the Webb Lady Spartan team was battling deep into the playoffs yet again this winter, Collier recently reflected on a coaching career that has included several state championships and four other unique rewards – coaching her four daughters.

Casey Collier, left, and mom and Webb coach, Shelley Collier.

She formerly coached Katie (now on the Middle Tennessee State team) and Sydney. Now, Casey, a junior, and freshman Britney are on the Webb squad.

Coach Collier grew up in a household large enough to field a team as well. The second-oldest of six siblings, the former Shelley Sexton first developed her love for basketball when she was in the third grade in Anderson County.

“My grandmother got me interested in playing,” she said. “We would play in between the games or at halftime of the middle schools' girls and boys games at Lake City (now Rocky Top). And I grew up watching Tennessee basketball and Lady Vol basketball.”

Her skill developed and she received invitations to the prestigious B/C All-Star basketball camps in Georgia. After finishing out her senior year in 1983 during the first year of Anderson County High School, a career that resulted in her picture later being placed outside the gym, she went on to play for Summitt at Tennessee.

Webb's Casey Collier drives down the court during a state quarterfinal game between Webb and CPA at Webb Friday, Feb. 23, 2018. Webb defeated CPA 40-19.

Also following her there as a coach was her Anderson County coach, Tony Cross, who later went on to a successful career as the Belmont University women’s coach. But like coach Summitt, who had battled Alzheimer’s disease, he also died in recent months while only in his 60s. Collier also considers him a great mentor.

Of the influence of Summitt on her life, Collier said, “There are many things I have learned from her. There is not a day that goes by that I do not think about her.”

After finishing at Tennessee, Collier stayed on as a graduate assistant for coach Summitt and coached at Clinton and Karns before arriving at Webb just when she was starting her family with husband, Robby Collier, now a football assistant at Webb.

While at Webb, she has had several standout players, including Glory Johnson, who went on to play for Tennessee. During at least one of Johnson’s games, Webb’s gym was packed with three college coaches – Summitt, Georgia coach Andy Landers and Kentucky coach Mickey DeMoss.

Such players have helped the Webb team enjoy perennial success. But for coach Collier, the daily banter with players has been as important as all the banners.

Webb's Casey Collier takes a shot during a state quarterfinal game between Webb and CPA at Webb Friday, Feb. 23, 2018. Webb defeated CPA 40-19.

“I’m very passionate about having an opportunity to work around young kids on a daily basis,” she said. “It is a blessing and a calling for me to be able to do that. Coaching is not something that I take lightly, as I try to give back to the game and to those who have influenced me and to the young ladies that I have the privilege of coaching every day.

And, of course, there have been the special relationships that have come from getting the unusual opportunity to coach four daughters on a high school varsity level.

For Casey, that has been quite natural, even with all the obvious expectations and demands her mother has placed on all the team members.

“It is definitely hard at times because she’s my mom, but I wouldn’t want to play for anyone else,” she said.

Webb's Casey Collier takes a foul shot during a state quarterfinal game between Webb and CPA at Webb Friday, Feb. 23, 2018. Webb defeated CPA 40-19.

Casey has been the daughter in the spotlight at Webb this year. While usually not the top scorer, she helps the team by providing various intangibles. And that has made Shelley a proud coach – and mom.

“We don’t win on the court without her,” said Collier after the region championship victory over Christian Academy of Knoxville. “She does so much for us. She’s a point guard. She’s a leader.”

Coach Collier jokingly added that her daughters have grown up seeing her as the coach of Webb, so they don’t know her in any other setting.

But Casey believes she deserves another title in addition to coach and mom – winner.

“She’s the best coach in the state of Tennessee and I love her to death,” she added with feeling.

 

KARNS

University Eye Specialists opens new office in Hardin Valley

Nancy Anderson, Shopper News correspondent 

University Eye Specialists officially opened its doors on 2547 Willow Point Way in Hardin Valley with a ribbon cutting celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 20.

Dr. Mary Pat Collins, CEO Will Pitt and Dr. Paul Froula officially open the fifth location of University Eye Specialists on 2547 Willow Point Way in Hardin Valley on Tuesday, Feb. 20.

The event was attended by several members of the Knoxville Chamber as well as Knox County Commissioners Michele Carringer and Brad Anders.

Tiffany Norton and Anita Clark say University Eye Specialists is a special place to work because they truly care for their patients.

“We are committed to serving patients with integrity and compassion, and we are honored to help our patients keep life in focus,” said Will Pitt, CEO of University Eye Specialists. “This new clinic allows us to offer even more vision care and optical options for our patients.

“With 17 doctors, 14 medical and three optometrists, we provide a comprehensive range of eye care from the most routine to the most complex whether you need glasses or have a cornea issue. Our physicians are the only comprehensive ophthalmologists in the Knoxville area that treat Level One trauma patients at UT Medical Center.”

Founded in 1935 by Dr. John L. Montgomery Sr., the practice has grown to five locations in Knoxville, Maryville and Morristown.

Michele Carringer, Knox County commissioner District 2, is all smiles with Will Pitt, CEO, and Brad Anders, Knox County commissioner District 6.

“We’ve been recognized regionally and nationally by our peers for excellence in eye care, but most of all, we have caring hearts," Pitt said.

“We’re excited to bring those caring hearts to the Hardin Valley area. We’re super excited about joining the community here. Coming here was an easy decision, we want to be part of the growth. It’s a wonderful area that’s certainly up and coming.”

Info: www.universityeye.com

 

FARRAGUT

Pinchok announces he’ll seek another term

Margie Hagen, Shopper News correspondent 

“There’s too much unfinished business and I’d like to still be involved and make a difference in the community as long as I can,” declared Ron Pinchok as he revealed his decision to run for his second term as alderman, South Ward II. In a recent interview, the Board of Mayor and Alderman vice chairman talked about what’s important to Farragut, and to him.

Ron Pinchok considers a decision during a recent board meeting.

“We need to do what we can to help our retail and commercial businesses,” he said. How do we do that? Pinchok says, “By getting the right businesses to look at us, connecting with developers and then bringing them together. That in turn will benefit the town with increased sales tax revenues.” He cited Costco as a successful example.   

Future development is another concern. “About 75 percent (of Farragut) is built out; now we have to be careful and pro-active.” Pinchok envisions the corridor north and east of I-40 and Campbell Station Road (Outlet Drive) as an optimal place for entertainment sites. “Ideally, businesses like restaurants, maybe a dinner theater, bowling alley or sports venue would provide families with activities.” The location lends itself to easy access for regional travelers.

That brings us to tourism. Pinchok says, “It’s another piece of the puzzle.” He has long been an advocate of attracting outside visitors to Farragut. With his extensive background in business, he understands return on investment. During the National League of Cities conference he attended, statistics confirmed that marketing and advertising dollars generate impressive returns.

According to the study presented at that conference, every dollar spent returns $115 to local businesses, with $6 returned to the tax base. The recent addition of a part-time tourism coordinator will enable the town to reach a larger audience. “We’ve done the branding, now we’ll do more marketing,” said Pinchok.

Pinchok has been in favor of continuing to improve parks, greenways and recreational facilities. “It adds to a healthier lifestyle and increases our property values,” he said. “We have seen the success of events like the Lawn Chair Concert series, and with the addition of a ‘great lawn’ and the other amenities planned for McFee Park, we can expand that.”

A real “hot button” issue in town has been the proliferation of empty storefronts; BOMA is limited on what it can do to affect these private properties. Pinchok sees a way to avoid this in the future, noting, “Form-based building allows for sites to be repurposed for another use. Should a retail business go out, offices or other commercial uses can occupy the space with minimal renovation.”

A 30-year resident of Farragut, Pinchok and his family have been involved in the community for many years. His wife, Debbie, serves on the PALS committee, and Pinchok, previously the chair of the Economic Development Committee, now serves as the liaison to the town. Also on the Tennova Metro Board of Directors, Pinchok looks forward to the future, saying, “ There are a lot of exciting things to come and I want to be part of that.”

 

POWELL

At JB's market, selling local goes back a long way

Mike Blackerby, Shopper News correspondent 

Combine a line of hard-to-find products, ultra-friendly customer service and a long local history and you’ve got JB’s Corner Market in Powell.

A photo of Meredith's Market in Clinton from the 1950s hangs on the wall at JB's. The market was opened by Justin Meredith's grandfather J.B. Meredith Sr.

Across the street from Claxton Elementary School at 2231 Clinton Hwy., the quaint produce and goods store is a throwback to simpler times and has a strong local following.

“We love local people and try to keep prices as low as we can,” said Natalia Meredith, who owns JB’s with her husband, Justin Meredith.

JB’s has an assortment of authentic Amish products, ranging from meat and dairy products such as bacon and cheese, to jams, jellies and candy.

Depending on the time of year, JB’s also offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and different types of beans in bulk.

JB's Corner Market is owned and run by the family team of, from left, Stephanie, Natalia and Justin Meredith.

“In season, we buy our fruits and vegetables from local farmers,” said Natalia.

“Soon we’ll have Grainger County tomatoes, green beans and cucumbers.”

Other local products include items like honey and sorghum.

Fresh stone-ground Southern corn meal has trouble staying on the shelves.

“They’re one of our better sellers,” said Natalia.

You can always find loaves of bread for sale at JB’s for just 99 cents.

Natalia said her goal is to have as few products as possible with preservatives in the store.

If they can it, JB's carries it.

“Our Amish butter has just three ingredients – cream, salt and milk. There are no preservatives. We are trying to get people as healthy as possible. You won’t get something here that I wouldn’t eat myself. It’s not always possible to have foods without preservatives, but we’re very close.”

JB’s has a long local history, according to Justin. “This building, an old gas station, was built in 1931,” he said.

Operating local markets runs in the blood of the Meredith family.

Justin’s grandfather J.B. Meredith opened Meredith’s City Food Market in downtown Clinton in 1950. Justin’s grandfather opened JB’s Market at its current location in 1975 before his father, who was also named J.B. Meredith, took it over in the 1980s.

Justin took over the business in 2012 after the death of his father.

“It does take you back in time,” said Justin.

Natalia said a loyal local customer following allows JB’s to stay in business and compete against bigger box stores.

JB's has been a staple for shoppers in Powell/Claxton since the 1980s.

“We’ve got one customer who is 94 years old who came to the store when it first opened and helped lay the blocks for the original building. He still comes to the store. People have been really good to us.”

Natalia said the family is glad they decided to keep the store open following J.B.’s death in 2011.

“We had a choice to get rid of it or keep it for his daddy,” she said.

“I get a lot of joy out of it, personally.”

JB’s (865-945-5580) is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

More:Zaxby's opens near Walmart, Knoxville Center Mall

 

 

NORTH/EAST

Harold Agnew: a rich life built on music and faith

Carol Z. Shane, Shopper News correspondent 

Harold Agnew never talks very long without breaking into song. The 90-year-old licensed barber, singer, guitar and piano player seems to know every gospel tune ever written. Snatches of melody constantly pepper his conversation. “The only problem is,” says Gary Gamble, owner of Gam’s Hair Fashions, where Agnew still works six days a week, “he never sings the whole song. You have to go to church to hear the whole thing.”

Harold Agnew shares a laugh with good friend Rudy Warner. “He calls me ‘daddy’ and I accept him as my son.”

Last Friday was Agnew’s 90th birthday, and there was a celebration for him at Rogers Memorial Baptist Church. Family and friends did indeed get to hear the tenor sing “the whole thing;” Agnew was happy to perform for them.

Born in Belton, S.C., to parents Allie and Henry, Agnew is the next-to-last in age of nine girls and seven boys. All are gone except one sister in S.C. and “my baby brother” in Boston, Mass., who will be 88 this year.

“I was a farmer boy. We picked cotton, grew watermelon, cantaloupe, muscadines, climbed trees, raised cows. I made it through 10th grade; I don’t have a diploma. I graduated in experience. I’ve been through some things.”

Gam's Barbershop's Harold Agnew turned 90 last week. Agnew still works at the barbershop six days a week and still drives himself to work.

He served in Germany during WWII as an Army corporal. Returning stateside, he was on his way to join his brother in Columbus, Ohio, and take a job in a steel mill when he came through Knoxville and met up with members of the Southern Travelers Gospel Singers. They needed a guitar player, “so I never got any further!” He became their lead tenor and guitarist; his brother Charles was also in the group. “They’re all gone now,” says Agnew. “I’m the only one left.”

His eyes twinkle. “You know who sponsored us? Cas Walker. He bought us our first uniforms.”

Agnew keeps this well-worn photo of his wife, Mallie, close at hand.

Among his treasure trove of pictures and memorabilia is a well-worn picture of his wife, Mallie. The two married in 1949 and he lost her in 2005 after 56 years of marriage. “We started in first grade together in S.C. That was Mallie. That was my wife. Shoot, I love that woman. Miss her.” The couple had four children — Harold Jr., who died in 2001; Robert Louis; Anna Ruth; and Rita, who just retired after 32 years as a schoolteacher.

Agnew’s rich voice has made him the go-to singer in many situations, but mainly, he says, “I’m known as ‘the funeral singing man.’” Friend Rudy Warner says Agnew “has been at more funerals than the undertaker.”

“At funerals I sing songs and talk — I’d rather have them laughing than crying. The scripture says ‘you mourn when people come into the world and you rejoice when they leave.’ But we do it backwards! What is that song — ‘I’ll have nothin’ to do … but just walk around heaven all day ….’ That’s a good one.”

The group that “kept” Harold Agnew, extreme right, in Knoxville. His brother Charles is shown at left.

He quotes his father: “Laugh when you’re tickled, come when you’re called, think before you speak and look before you leap.” And, he says, “I don’t worry about anything. I can’t undo what I did yesterday and tomorrow hasn’t gotten here yet. Worry and stress will get you. I live one day at a time.”

But mostly, says Agnew, “I can’t hate. The Bible says you have to love, and you can’t love and hate at the same time.”

More:Central High School taking proactive approach for school safety

 

 

FARRAGUT

Politics on the menu at mayor candidate forum

Margie Hagen, Shopper News correspondent 

Candidates Glenn Jacobs, Brad Anders and Bob Thomas with Julie Blaylock and Hallerin Hilton Hill.

The Farragut/West Knox Chamber served up three candidates for Knox County mayor at the kickoff of its 2018 Breakfast Speaker Series at Fox Den Country Club on Feb. 20. The ballroom was packed as members and guests gathered to hear Brad Anders, Glenn Jacobs and Bob Thomas answer questions submitted by the chamber and audience.

Introduced as “the most trusted communicator in East Tennessee,” moderator Hallerin Hilton Hill laid out the ground rules: Each candidate would answer every question within the allotted time after giving an opening statement about why he was running.

Anders, a nearly lifelong resident, has been with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office for 26 years and is currently a lieutenant in the Special Crimes Unit. He’s been a county commissioner since 2008, serving as chair and vice chair, and says the county “is better than it was (then) and I’m a part of that.”

Hallerin Hilton Hill (right) kept the forum on track while triggering laughter from Bob Thomas, Glenn Jacobs, Brad Anders and the audience.

Jacobs earned a national reputation as a professional wrestler and is the only candidate without political experience. The owner of an insurance business in West Knox, Jacobs is running “because I love this place (Knoxville).” He wants to ensure that “the standard of living and quality of life remains high.”

For Thomas, Farragut holds a special place; both his son and daughter are FHS grads. A county commissioner since 2014, he has 40 years of business and media experience. Thomas says, “I want to leave this place better than I found it.”

Hill asked how the trio would deal with safety and security. Anders said, “It’s right in my wheelhouse,” while Jacobs is in favor of a mental health task force. Thomas feels “there is a breakdown in society and family; all of us need to be part of the solution.”

An audience member posed a question that’s on everyone’s minds: “Do you plan on raising property taxes during your term?” Both Jacobs and Thomas answered no. Citing fiscal soundness and tremendous growth, neither is in favor of more taxes and would look to public-private partnerships and attracting business growth to fund government.

While it may be too soon for these young attendees to vote, it’s never too early to learn about the democratic process.

Anders was more circumspect, noting that county debt has increased over the last three years. “It takes $2.5 million a day to run the county,” he said, adding, “I certainly don’t want to raise taxes, but to take it off the table is foolish and pandering to voters and we don’t know what three years or four years looks like from now.”

Several other questions were asked and each candidate had equal time to present his ideas and vision. They all have different styles, but everyone wants good jobs, more educational opportunities, safety and infrastructure improvement. Who becomes the next county mayor is up to you, the voter.

Learn more about the candidates on their respective websites. Early voting starts April 11, with the primary on May 1. The county general and Farragut municipal elections are Aug. 2.

 

HALLS

Red Devil Café open for business

Ali James, Shopper News correspondent 

The Red Devil Café started out as a simple vocational program at Halls High. “We wheeled a coffee cart around the hallways earlier this semester,” said CDC-A teacher Romy Reed.

Student Alex Webb and teacher Romy Reed at the Red Devil Café.

“We have two job sites in the community, but we have quite a few students and we were trying to find another job site. The café doesn’t require a bus — they can just come and work.”

Sanders Plumbing reached out to see if the special education class needed anything. Upon request it donated coffee and snacks, and Jeremy Roberson, a manager at Lowe's on Clinton Highway, donated a mini-fridge. To keep costs down, parents donated snacks and drinks, and the faculty provided a cookie display cabinet.

The coffee cart business expanded so rapidly that they soon needed a larger space. “Our principal, Mr. Duff, was nice enough to give us this location,” said Reed about the former PTA storage closet. “It took about two days to clean it out and set it up.”

All items, including coffee, soda, candy bars, chips and pastries, are $1 unless they are in the 50-cent bargain bin. “Any money raised is put back into the café itself,” said Reed.

“The main thing is to prepare them for work opportunities, so that they have experience to put on their resume.”

Revenue is used to buy items in bulk and ingredients to bake more cookies, brownies and muffins. Tasks include preparing items, opening and closing, serving customers, inventory and restocking.

Working in the café allows students to develop their next-dollar (rounding up) and counting-back-change skills. “A lot of students are working on sorting,” said Reed. “For example, they sort the different sugar packages and the chips.”

Spencer Shuemaker greets customers outside the Red Devil Café at Halls High School.

Students also practice smiling and being pleasant to customers as well as focusing on the volume of their voices and appropriate proximity. “It’s been a great way to help them achieve their communication goal,” said Reed. “It encourages them to have communications with both their peers and staff at Halls.”

Red Devil Café even boasts an online ordering system for the teachers. “They can go online and order via Google Docs or call in their order. Orders can be collected or delivered during a teacher’s specified planning time."

And when students navigate the school to make deliveries, Reed said it helps increase their independence.

Students Taylor Wood and Maddy Conner stop by the Red Devil Café. Wood and Conner also assist the special education students at Halls High.

Reed said the cafeteria ladies have been particularly helpful and that community involvement has been overwhelming. “I want to be sure to mention Brenda Chesney, Kim Webb, Tammy Fox, Missy Green, Quineesh Phillips, Dale Richnafsky and our principal,” said Reed. “They all helped facilitate the café.”

Red Devil Café is open every school day and staffed by students in the ninth through 12th grades working a rotating schedule. Set-up starts at 7:45 and the café opens at 8:30 a.m. and runs until noon, closing down for lunch and reopening 1:15-2:45 for afternoon snacks.

In the future, the class hopes to partner with local business to offer breakfast items – such as breakfast sandwiches and wraps on specific days.

 

KARNS

Karns Elementary kids put their hearts in it, raise $15K

Nancy Anderson, Shopper News correspondent 

More than 200 students at Karns Elementary School got their hearts pumping jumping rope for the American Heart Association during the Jump Rope for Heart Celebration Day held at the school Wednesday, Feb. 14.

Libby Meridieth, 10, shows off her fancy jump roping skills.

The kids raised nearly $15,000 in the two-week fundraising campaign, placing them in the top 10 statewide.

But it’s more than about money, says American Heart Association Youth Market Director Jenny Kitts. It’s about empowerment.

“The kids learn the American Heart Association Five for Life, which is drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, be physically active every day, don’t touch the salt shaker, and don’t smoke.

Evyn Mesa, 10, said she loves jump roping at the Jump Rope for Heart Celebration Day at Karns Elementary School on Feb. 14.

“They take the challenge to improve on one of these areas and to challenge others not only to donate money, but to improve on these areas as well.

“It’s very powerful because it’s not uncommon for 100 people to drink more water or increase their activity level due to one fourth-grader.”

Gone are the days of knocking on doors. The kids gathered the money mostly through online activities featuring “The Scare Squad” characters and emailing friends and family to donate.

The kids earn a multitude of “Thank You” gifts along the way, including character plush, keychains, balls, jump ropes, and T-shirts.

Ten-year-old Emma Rainey raised $455, placing her among the top earners. She received almost all the available “Thank You” gifts, including a glow in the dark T-shirt, but she said it wasn’t about the prizes for her.

Emma Rainey, 10, raised $455, placing her among the top earners. She said she participated to honor a family friend who underwent a heart transplant in 2015.

“This is my third year doing this; next year will be my last, and I’ve challenged myself to raise $1,000 next year. It’s all to honor a family friend that had a heart transplant in 2015.  

“It’s nice to win all the prizes, but it’s better to help people,” she said.

Info: http://american.heart.org/jump-hoops

 

WORDS OF FAITH

To experience faith more meaningfully, look at the full story

Tom Ogburn, Shopper News columist

Tom Ogburn, First Baptist Downtown Knoxville

Some years ago, I wrote a short and simple book about my family history. It was an appealing task because over the course of my lifetime, I had heard a number of family myths about our past. I was fascinated by some of the stories and was eager to find out more about them. As I looked more carefully at some of the more dramatic myths, they faltered under the weight of the research. The surprising thing was the true stories were actually more interesting, even more dramatic, than the myths I had heard. I was able to trace our family line back almost 400 years and learn more about those who carried our name well beyond that.

Our family stories matter because as we learn more about where we come from, we discover some of what makes us who we are. We are now in the Lenten season, that 40-day period many Christian traditions claim as a time of preparation for Easter. If we are purposeful in claiming a time of preparation, it will invite us to both remember and explore our faith story – a discipline that illuminates who we are just as much as our family histories do.

We should remember those moments when we have seen God at work in our lives – those first moments of faith – when God’s love felt close and life-changing. In those stories, we find our place in God’s family. Galatians 3 tells us, So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

We should also take this time to explore our faith story. So often we are content to hear stories from pastors or Sunday school teachers without taking the time to read the story on our own. This means we too often encounter God’s great story a small piece at a time. This would be a great time to read the whole story in the Gospel of Matthew or Luke. You might be surprised by some of what you encounter. When you read a gospel in its entirety, it can give you a fresh perspective of the depth and breadth of God’s love on display in Jesus. When you read the gospel story as a whole, you may discover that your faith story is even more powerful than you might have imagined.

As followers of Christ, we are an Easter people. But Easter can mean more to us if we walk with Jesus as he preaches, teaches, loves and cares for those he encounters on the way to Jerusalem. Easter can mean more to us when we take the time to purposefully come to the foot of the cross – redemption on display. Easter can mean more to us when we come to the resurrection tomb as witnesses of the great work of God through Jesus. We have a great faith story. Let’s take the journey toward Easter together.

Tom Ogburn, D.Min., is senior pastor at First Baptist Church in downtown Knoxville. More information: fbcknox.org.

 

FARRAGUT

Kids helping kids in crisis

Margie Hagen, Shopper News correspondent 

Mention Girl Scouts this time of year and people usually think of their favorite cookies, but for Junior Troop 20419, February was the culmination of the project that Alyssa Hatfield, Addie Havely and Savannah Bush have been working on since last October. The three Cedar Bluff Elementary School students have been involved in community service before, but this was the biggest undertaking of their young lives.

Backpacks contain an assortment of toiletries, books, hats, gloves, snacks and toys.

Troop leader and mom Becky Hatfield was brainstorming with the girls about a service project and that’s how Backpacks for Kids in Crisis took shape. The idea was to provide comfort to kids facing stressful situations like being placed in protective custody, staying in a homeless shelter or having their home destroyed by fire. “Even if it provides just a few minutes of happiness it’s worth it,” said Hatfield.

The backpacks are filled with necessities like toothbrushes, toothpaste and shampoo. Hats and gloves will provide warmth while stuffed animals, small toys, readers and activity books can help add a little diversion. Shelf-stable snacks, free ice cream and meal coupons from local restaurants are included, too.

The Hatfield’s dining room became an assembly line with Addie, Savannah and Alyssa working for months on the project.

Planning, organizing and getting donations took time and a lot of legwork. Over a dozen individuals and businesses generously gave cash, gift cards and products to the project. Sponsors were Delta Dental, Teacher Supply Depot, National Entertainment Network, Walmart, Publix, Food City, Second Harvest, Texas Roadhouse, Chick-fil-A, Dairy Queen, and Burger King. Sheila Roark and Pam Smith are friends who contributed; others wanted to remain anonymous.

For the three Junior Girl Scouts, it was a life lesson and an opportunity to do something good for kids who need a little comfort. Talking about the experience, 9-year-old Savannah said, “I liked to help out other kids.” Alyssa, 10, noted, “When kids get taken away from their parents it can be upsetting.” And Addie, also 10, admitted “We had fun doing it.”

Volunteer Sam Compton helped Savannah Bush, Addie Havely, Alyssa Hatfield and Becky Hatfield load up snacks donated to Backpacks for Kids in Crisis by Second Harvest Food Bank.

On a rainy Saturday 10 days ago, 217 bags were loaded up and delivered to the KARM shelter on Broadway, Rural Metro at Campbell Station and Knoxville Police Department headquarters. Three generations of families came along to lend a hand. Expressing what everyone felt, Hatfield said, “I’m so proud of all of them and their caring hearts.” Great job, girls, and now the Hatfields can get their dining room back!

 

HALLS

Kids pour hearts into 'Blessing Bags' for needy

Ruth White, Shopper News

Student Council members at Halls Elementary have been busy filling gallon zipper bags with snacks and simple, everyday items to hand out to people in need.

Paige LeQuire packs up a box with Blessing Bags to hand out as a need arises.

The bags, called Blessing Bags, are filled with tissue, gum, socks, lotion, personal items and snack foods. Students put the word out at school and church, asking for donations of items to fill the bags. Thanks to generous donations from the community, including a large donation from the Coffee family and Dental Partners Dr. Allen Hunley and Dr. Andrew Patten, more than 100 bags were assembled and ready to distribute.

Paige LeQuire's family hands many of the bags out under the bridge near Knox Area Rescue Ministries and ministers to those in need through them. 

Student Council members pictured are: (front) Jack VanDeGriff, Carlie Etters, Patton Wilcox, Ella Wolfe; (second row) Carlie Cadle, Madison Miller, Gavin Slate, Leah Ferguson; (third row) Garrett Beeler, Sophia Elkins, Erynn Brewton, Daniel Jernejcic, Easton Kitts; (top row) sponsor Kelli Smith, Ella Bradford, Reese Hodges and Paige LeQuire. Not pictured: Emma Huiting, Presley Lane.

"Knowing that we are providing a need feels good. I am very proud of what the group is doing to help others," said Paige.

Student Council members are in the fourth and fifth grades at Halls Elementary, and their hearts for giving are huge. When asked about the experience, many expressed good feelings of helping others, making a positive change in the community, letting people know they aren't forgotten and giving others hope through a smile and a kind gesture. 

 

BEARDEN

West swimmer/musician tunes up for college

John Shearer, Shopper News correspondent 

The multifaceted West High School junior Coleman Kredich enjoys the usually soft and melodic sounds he is able to make when playing classical music with his violin, an instrument he has played since age 2.

West High School freestyle sprinter, Coleman Kredich.

But his best route to college might be the loud splashing – but also rhythmic – sounds he makes in the pool as a freestyle sprinter.

He recently demonstrated these latter skills in the state high school swim meet by placing second in the 50-yard freestyle and third in the 100 free. His 50 time of 20.45 seconds was just behind Bearden senior Caleb Harrington, while his 100 free time was an also-satisfying 45.34 seconds at the University of Tennessee’s Allan Jones Intercollegiate Aquatic Center.

West High swimmer Coleman Kredich.

“I was really happy,” the 6-foot athlete said in an interview a few days after the meet. “I dropped my time in the 50 free. I get to go to Irvine (Calif.) for the Summer Junior Nationals.”

While in California, he is likely to continue to be observed by a few college swimming coaches on the recruiting trail. Kredich said he definitely wants to swim in college.

“I’m looking at UT, Duke, Harvard, Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania,” he said.

Duke is where his parents went and where he is familiar with the coaches, he said. And he knows the coach at UT pretty well, too – his father, Matt Kredich, who heads up both the men’s and women’s programs.

As a result, he does not want to go to another SEC school where he would regularly have to compete against the elder Kredich.

Coleman said he loves the fact that his father is the coach, and he does not feel any extra pressure as a swimmer with that last name.

“It’s pretty cool,” he said. “When I go to swim meets, people know who my dad is.”

However, as far as receiving any extra tips about swimming from his father, it actually would have to come from osmosis. The elder Kredich deliberately does not want to interfere with the other coaches who work more closely with him.

“I will ask him about something, and he says to go ask your coach,” Coleman said with a laugh.

His Tennessee Aquatics coach, Larry Hough, thinks he is doing just fine – in and out of the pool.

“I would describe Coleman as a very happy person, one with a big personality and an exuberance for life,” said Hough, who knows a little about combining swimming and music as a former opera singer. “He is a very charismatic leader in the program; he leads both vocally and in deeds.”

He also said Coleman is a great competitor, who has never backed down from the opportunity to race, and wants to be the very best swimmer he can be.

This ambition has evidently carried over to the classroom as well. In fact, with three Ivy League schools on his college list, he has obviously had to burn the midnight oil along with a few calories.

Kredich said the International Baccalaureate program at West has really helped him. “That really prepares me for college,” he said. “All the classes are like college. I feel like I am really going to be ready.”

Kredich said he will likely pursue a career in finance or business due to his interest in math and working with numbers. But he has not completely ruled out following in his father’s footsteps as a coach, either.

“That is definitely a possibility,” he said. “I do have a lot of respect for coaches and find it interesting.”

For now, though, he keeps pretty busy focusing on the present. Besides his academics, he also practices nine times a week when he is not participating in a meet. That includes twice a day on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and Wednesday morning, Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.

That might sound like a grinding schedule, but Kredich said he enjoys it. 

“When we have Wednesday night off, I don’t know what to do with myself,” he joked.

 

SOUTH

Hearts sad as Chapman Pool closes after 60 years

Heather Robinson, Shopper News correspondent 

Members of Chapman Pool are saddened by the news that their summer destination has closed the gates for the last time.

The Olympic-size pool also had a covered picnic area, kiddie pool and concession stand.

This month, the board tearfully came to the decision to sell the property at 608 E. Gov. John Sevier Highway and close the pool that served area families for almost 60 years.  

The notice of the sale, posted on the pool’s Facebook page, shocked many people. It gained attention from members past and present, as well as those who never held membership but wished they had. Before the quick sale of the property, community members hoped there was something they could do to help, but it was too late. The pool had been in financial struggle for years.

The property sold this week for the asking price of $199,999, but representatives of the pool would not disclose the buyer or their intent for the property.

The "big pool" at Chapman Recreation Center was filled last summer for the final time.

“It breaks my heart,” says Carissa Mitchell, board president of Chapman Pool. “Sometimes very difficult decisions have to be made.”

The sale caused deep sadness and made generations of families nostalgic for the memories the property holds.

“I will miss having a great place for my kids to play,” says Mitchell. “I felt like the facility was perfect for kids. There were days that we would stay for hours and lots of people would spend the whole day.”

The pool, which was built in the 1960s, operated as a nonprofit and relied on memberships to generate revenue that was used toward maintenance and repairs. After suffering financial hardship for several seasons, the board decided it would sell the property and refund any prepaid memberships. Money left over from the deal would be donated to the local schools where their membership derived.

The pool was enjoyed by members in 2017 who were unaware that it would the last season for Chapman Recreation Center.

“The silver lining is that a few local elementary schools will be receiving a donation from the sale of the pool,” says Mitchell. “(It's) a final effort by the board and the founders of Chapman Pool to be a benefit to the community of South Knoxville.”

“I want people to know that we did try and we tried everything we could,” says Mitchell. “We did not come to this decision lightly, or quickly. We spent thousands of hours and thousands of our own dollars to stay afloat.”

In addition to the high cost of maintaining a pool as old as Chapman Pool, memberships have dwindled over the last decade.

“We just couldn’t keep up with the changes in how families choose to spend their free time, nor are pools designed to last nearly 60 years,” says Mitchell.

Many hotdogs and bags of chips were passed across this concession stand window over the last 60 years.

Asked what the future holds for the property that currently houses an Olympic-size pool with a high dive, a kiddie pool, a gazebo and a lovely lawn, Mitchell is unsure.

“I don’t know what will happen to the property,” says Mitchell. “I pray for a pool or recreation facility to continue.”

Time will tell what becomes of the property, but for those who cherished this pool, hope remains that it can still be used for the good of the community.

 

NORTH/EAST

‘Lady Bosses of Knoxville’ at the Hive

Carol Z. Shane, Shopper News correspondent 

The Hive on Central Avenue was abuzz recently when Lady Bosses of Knoxville held one of their every-other-month lunch programs.

Guests ate green salad, grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, rolls and brownies; sweet and not-sweet tea was offered. The vibe was energetic and engaged.

Hannah Houser, Ghada Ayesh, Katie Willocks, Jessica Dean and Claudia Caballero —  all leaders in their fields —  spoke to the crowd.

Begun in June of 2017, the lunches grew out of a desire for women to gather and trade personal and professional ideas. “We just wanted to bring women of any stage in their career together with other women who’ve reached their goals, to see it could be done,” says Hannah Houser, community event planner for the Hive. “We’ve even had a couple of guys come, which is cool. They’re here to listen and learn.”

So far the group has enjoyed programs on Creatives, Foodies, Home & Lifestyle and Branding. This time the topic was Activism. Featured were Claudia Caballero, executive director of Centro Hispano; Katie Willocks, senior case manager for Bridge Refugee Services; Ghada Ayesh, teacher and daycare director at Annoor Academy; and Jessica Dean, professor of English at Pellissippi State Community College.

An energetic group enjoyed the recent Lady Bosses of Knoxville lunch at the Hive.

Dean says her activism began when she was a church secretary in North Carolina and she found people excluded — specifically residents of a nearby work-release halfway house who were looking for a church. This instance, she says, awakened her passion for “looking to the people at the margins — those who aren’t being included.” She spoke of the importance of listening to those in need, instead of going into a situation and trying to impose already-decided-upon actions. “What don’t I know? What don’t I see?”

Ayesh became involved in founding Annoor Academy because her own kids needed a place to feel safe and not “different” observing their religious customs while receiving an education. In 2015, she was named an Exceptional Educator by the Knoxville News Sentinel for her work with preschool students. “In the past two years I’ve found myself wanting to connect more” outside the school, she says. “My job now is trying to encourage the youth to give back to the community.”

Caballero’s advice is, “Don’t be afraid to rock the boat. Change doesn’t happen unless you do that. You have to be persistent in life.” Willocks agrees. “As women, we’re taught to take a back seat. Instead, be the ‘Alexander Hamilton’ who annoys everyone.” 

All spoke of the first step in creating a positive difference in the community: finding one’s passion.

Dean’s passion also extends to agriculture. As CEO of Clay Halo Farms & Kitchen, she employs college students as part of her Community-Supported Agriculture Apprentice program. “I started with a mint plant on my porch in college,” says Dean. “I killed three mint plants. And now I have a small farm.” She grins. “So watch out!”

 

POWELL 

Project or party, Rusty Cottage has all you need to DIY

Mike Blackerby, Shopper News correspondent 

They take their home-craft projects seriously at the Rusty Cottage DIY Studio.

Create your next DIY project at one of the many classes offered at the Rusty Cottage.

In fact, the motto for anything constructed at the popular Powell do-it-yourself workshop could very well be “Built to Last.”

Rusty Cottage, in Lambert Square at 6910 Clinton Hwy., opened in August.

Rusty Cottage owner and class instructor Jamie Spickard with one of the blanket ladders she crafted.

Owner Jamie Spickard holds workshops, private events and parties for DIY enthusiasts of all levels.

Even if you don’t know how to hammer a nail or operate a power tool, Spickard will show you.

“A lot of people don’t even know how to paint when they come in,” said Spickard with a laugh.

She decided to open her own business after doing DIY home projects for more than 20 years.

“We were actually doing home-craft classes for friends out of our home and it got too big,” Spickard explained.

DIY participants learn to make many of the same farmhouse-style wood signs and home-décor items that Spickard makes and sells out of her shop.

“I cut out everything and make it myself,” she said. “The most popular things we have are home signs, door hangers and blanket ladders.”

Spickard said there are several reasons why people are turning to DIY projects instead of buying home-décor items from more traditional stores.

One of the unique creations from a Rusty Cottage workshop.

“They can personalize their home décor and projects and make it fit their homes,” she offered. “Also, a lot of people come in to make gifts for weddings, showers and house warmings.”

And of course, the final products that come out of DIY projects at Rusty Cottage are built to last.

“This is solid wood,” said Spickard, pointing to one of her wall hangings.

“We use a lot of birch, plywood, pine and cedar. All of our porch signs are made of cedar to last long because they’re going to be hanging outside.”

You can tell that Rusty Cottage is a workshop.

They believe in doing it yourself at the Rusty Cottage on Clinton Highway.

In addition to the finished products that hang on the walls and adorn the shop, various workshops are scattered throughout. Stacks of wood, tools and paint are just waiting to be transformed into that special home project.

“I’ve got people that come in two to three times a month to make gifts,” said Spickard.

Everything you need to pull off your DIY project is provided in the classes.

“When you come to the workshop you pick out what you want to make,” explained Spickard, who carries 70 colors of paint.

This Easter-themed wall hanging is available at Rusty Cottage.

“Everything you need is laid out for you. We have your smock, stains, paints, brushes and tools already laid out. We could have 30 people making 30 different projects.”

Spickard is excited about an upcoming workshop.

“We’ll be making cornhole boards in the spring.”

Spickard said there are usually at least “two or three” DIY instructors on hand for the classes, which can handle a maximum of 34 people.

“It gets a little crazy sometimes. It’s just a way for people to get together and have fun. People can bring wine, beer and order pizza.”

To inquire about upcoming workshops or book a private party, call 865-859-9282 or visit www.rustycottagetn.com.

 

 

OPINION

People and pets: Our hearts beat together

Leslie Snow, Shopper News columnist

I was juggling too many things at once. I had work to do and bills to pay. I had to pack for an upcoming trip and work through some construction problems for our remodeling project. My phone kept ringing. The kids kept texting. I had errands to run and groceries to buy. I was tired and tense. I felt the weight of a thousand little problems that amounted to nothing but still felt like a burden.

Leslie Snow, News Sentinel columnist.

Then I looked at my Great Dane, Lily, and saw the walnut-sized lump on her jaw. I put aside my computer and my papers. I tossed my to-do list aside and put my house plans on the counter. I dropped everything I was doing to take Lily to see our veterinarian.

She was miserable on the ride over. I could feel her hot breath on my neck. I could hear her heavy panting and see her soft fur flying round the car. I opened the back windows and tried to soothe her with my voice. “You’re OK, big girl. No one is going to hurt you.” I could tell she didn’t believe me.

She was even more anxious at the vet’s office. Her body was shaking. And like most Great Danes do, she leaned against me for comfort. I wrapped my arms around her body.

The vet came in a few minutes later and confirmed what I already suspected. Lily had an abscessed tooth. Her gums were red and swollen; she was in pain. While I waited for her prescriptions, I stroked her ears and rubbed her belly. She pressed herself against me so hard, I could barely keep my balance. 

On the way home, she kept her face next to mine so she could lick my cheek and nibble my ear while I drove. She whined, softly. And in a strange flashback, I thought of taking my kids to see the pediatrician when their throats were sore and their fevers were high.

When we got back home, Lily raced to her bed and plopped down with a groan. She was ready to relax, but I was too wound up to settle down. The stress of the day washed over me. My papers were just where I left them. My shopping list was still waiting. My to do-list was staring at me. The construction problems I had put on hold to take Lily to the vet hadn’t resolved themselves in my absence.

I looked at Lily, curled in the tiniest ball a Great Dane can manage, and I smiled. Without giving it much thought, I walked over to her bed and scooted down next to her. I rested my head against her soft body and let her warmth comfort me.

She made her happiest noises then and turned her head until our faces were touching. Her breathing slowed and so did mine. She sighed contentedly and so did I. We closed our eyes.

I felt the stress fall away from us. And if I had been her mother earlier in the day, caring for her when she was sick, she was my friend now helping to ease the burdens of an ordinary day that, for some reason, didn’t feel ordinary at all.

We fell asleep like that, and when I woke up a few minutes later, I felt better. We both got what we needed on that stressful day. And though Lily couldn’t say so, I think we were both grateful for the ties that bind us together.  

Leslie Snow may be reached at snowcolumn@aol.com.

 

HALLS/FOUNTAIN CITY

CHS Alumni Association presents check to Central High School

 

CHS Alumni Association president R. Larry Smith, right, presents a $5,000 check from the organization to Central High School Student Government president McKenzie England and math teacher/PTSO member Christi Hinton. Smith said donations and member dues allow the group to give back to the school for needs during the school year. Donations go to organizations such as the band, chorus, technology, teacher fund for learning opportunities, after-school tutoring and athletics as designated.