Nominations open for the Thomas B. Ballard Advanced Energy Leadership Award
Nominations open for the Thomas B. Ballard Advanced Energy Leadership Award
KNOXVILLE, TN, Feb. 16, 2021 — The Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council is now accepting nominations for the Thomas B. Ballard Advanced Energy Leadership Award. The annual award honors exemplary leadership and success in championing, connecting, and strengthening Tennessee’s advanced energy economy.
TAEBC champions the state’s advanced energy economy as an economic development and job creation strategy through sharing information, connecting stakeholders, and strengthening the industry. These pillars are personally exemplified by the tireless work of Tom Ballard, an unparalleled leader, educator, mentor, and advocate of Tennessee’s advanced energy economy.
Ballard was TAEBC’s first president upon its launch in 2014 and served on the board of directors until 2019. The Thomas B. Ballard Advanced Energy Leadership Award is an annual award, with winners named at TAEBC’s annual meeting. This year’s winner will be announced at TAEBC’s 2021 Annual Meeting, held virtually on March 25, 2021.
In 2019, TAEBC bestowed the first-ever Thomas B. Ballard Advanced Energy Leadership Award to Ballard himself, during TAEBC’s Annual Meeting at Schneider Electric’s Nashville Hub. In 2020, TAEBC awarded Dan Hurst, CEO and Founder of Knoxville-based Strata-G, with the Thomas B. Ballard Advanced Energy Leadership Award during TAEBC’s Annual Meeting.
Applications should be submitted here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvgeTylvz-cQ44QjUkPb4hSpjcTdojWR8RkoFNf0NNEJNOzQ/viewform
The deadline for nominations is March 1, 2021.
Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon set for Oct. 2-3, online race registration now open
The 17th annual Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon race weekend will take place Oct. 2-3, 2021. Online registration for all races is open now at www.knoxvillemarathon.com.
The Kids Run and 5K are scheduled for the evening of Saturday, Oct. 2, at 4:30 and 6 p.m., respectively. The marathon, half marathon and relay events are set for Sunday, Oct. 3, starting at 7:30 a.m.
The fall 2021 event will feature in-person races starting at the iconic Sunsphere on the Clinch Avenue Viaduct and ending in World’s Fair Park, with various routes featuring downtown Knoxville, its beautiful surrounding neighborhoods and the University of Tennessee campus. Virtual options also will be available for those who wish to participate remotely.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and potential restrictions on public gatherings, all 2021 races and supporting events were shifted from March to October. Race officials currently are confirming the race routes and planning additional festivities for finishers, families and fans to enjoy. More information will be announced as details become available.
“We are looking forward to a safe, in-person race weekend in October,” Race Director Jason Altman said. “Like many other organizations and event planners, the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon faced many unexpected challenges during the past year. We are thrilled that we will be able to gather together this fall – to walk, jog, run, volunteer and cheer. Between now and then, keep training and racing toward your goals, and we’ll see you at the finish line!”
Everyone who deferred registration from 2020 to the 2021 Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon will be able to participate in the October events as planned. New participants are encouraged to register online at www.knoxvillemarathon.com.
Current registration fees include $65 for the full marathon; $50 for half-marathon and two-person relay; $40 for four-person relay; $25 for 5K; and $10 for Covenant Kids Run. Price increases for entry fees will go into effect later this spring.
“We are thankful for the community’s patience and understanding as we have rerouted this year’s events to ensure a safe, in-person race weekend,” Covenant Health President and CEO Jim VanderSteeg said. “As the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine continues, we encourage everyone to continue to practice social distancing, wear a mask and wash your hands to slow the spread of illness. We wish everyone a safe and healthy year leading up to race weekend and look forward to seeing you in October.”
For more information and to register for the 2021 Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon, visit www.knoxvillemarathon.com.
UScellular kicks off 2021 Community Connections program
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 15, 2021) – For the seventh year in a row, youth-focused organizations in East Tennessee can earn up to $1,000 through UScellular’s Community Connections program. Whether it’s STEM programs, sports teams, marching bands, dance teams, arts or a variety of other groups, organizers can sign up at uscellular.com/communityconnections and start earning money for their activity, 100% virtually.
Once registered online, non-profit groups representing youth from kindergarten up to 12th grade have 14 days to rally their friends, families and social followers to complete digital activities like watching a video or following UScellular on its social channels to earn funds. Each completed activity earns money that goes directly to the organization.
“Now more than ever, K-12 groups are in need of funds to support their activities and initiatives,” said Nathan Waddell, UScellular’s director of sales for East Tennessee. “The Community Connections program offers an easy, virtual platform for East Tennessee youth organizations to raise money throughout the year and helps kids achieve their goals.”
Since launching the program in 2015, U.S. Cellular has awarded more than $1.4 million to 3,100 groups nationwide to support their needs from equipment purchases to field trips. For more information and to view the official rules, please go to uscellular.com/communityconnections.
About UScellular
UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with UScellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.
Oak Ridge moves closer to clearing away Biology Complex
OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – EM crews recently finished taking down Building 9210, one of the final remaining buildings located in the former Biology Complex at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge.
This project, which began last fall, removed a vacant, deteriorated 65,000-square-foot building that stood three stories tall. The Biology Complex is categorized as high risk due to its structural condition, and its removal will provide land for national security missions at the site.
With Building 9210 demolished, workers will shift to Building 9207, the last structure standing in the complex that once consisted of 11 buildings. Demolition will begin next month on the six-story, 255,000-square-foot facility — the largest of all structures in the complex.
Removing the buildings that made up the Biology Complex ushers in the next phase of cleanup for the Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management and its cleanup contractor UCOR after completing all demolition at the East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP) last year.
Workers will address hundreds of excess, contaminated, and deteriorating facilities throughout Y-12 and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) that present hazards and occupy land that can be used for future research and national security missions. Clearing away the Biology Complex represents the most significant skyline change at Oak Ridge since crews knocked down the facilities that comprised ETTP.
Taking down the Biology Complex buildings will be the first of many projects to clear away former Manhattan Project and Cold War buildings at Y-12 and ORNL.
Preparing the Biology Complex buildings for demolition was a major undertaking requiring workers in full protective suits to remove asbestos material used as insulation in pipes and wall panels.
Originally constructed for recovering uranium from process streams in the 1940s, the complex was later used for research that led to strides in understanding genetics and the effects of radiation. When operational, the facilities once housed more individuals with doctorates than anywhere in the world.
Cumberland Hotel Knoxville springs into the season with two new memorable outdoor experiences
Whether you’re packing up the family for a few days of quality time, planning a getaway with friends or a rendezvous for two, Cumberland House Knoxville is offering an old-school way to create new memories. Just steps away from the hotel, World Fair’s Park plays host to the hotel’s Picnic in the Park Package.
The Picnic in the Park Package includes overnight accommodations, a picnic basket stocked with wine and local favorites and a complimentary Cumberland Hotel blanket to take home as a keepsake. Package rate begins at $159 per night. Visit cumberlandhouseknoxville.com for more information.
Discover Knoxville’s adventurous and wild side with the Great Outdoors Package at Cumberland House Knoxville. Whether on a greenway through a historic park or on a natural trail through the woods, you will reconnect with nature with experiences curated by the nature-loving staff at our hotel and local partners like Knoxville Adventure Collective and IJams.
The 2021 House & Garden Show is going virtual
The 2021 House & Garden Show is Going Virtual and is easier than ever and free to attend, February 12th – March 14th.
From the ground to the gutters, the Virtual House & Garden Show has something for everyone. The perennial preview of spring invites you to experience the top vendors in home improvement, interior design, appliances, and more–all from the comfort of your own home! The 2021 Virtual House & Garden Show offers you the opportunity to see all the exhibitors, products, and services you’ve come to expect from our show without fear of safety and health concerns.
The fun begins this Friday, February 12th: log on and browse a Comprehensive Exhibitor Directory, save money with exclusive Show Specials, and attend free Virtual Expert Sessions to take the stress out of planning your next home project. Home and garden experts are here to help!
Registration is now open for Virtual Expert Sessions via Zoom. Get support from experts in a variety of fields, and have the opportunity to ask questions specific to your project and challenges!
Friday, February 12th:
- 10AM: Make Your New Closet Stunning, Closets by McKenry
- 11AM: Curbless Shower: The Hottest Trends in Bathrooms, David’s Abbey Carpets
- 1PM: Get Great Water, Aqua Clear Water Systems
- 2PM: Garage Renovation: A New Room for the Family, Designer Garages
And even more presentations on Saturday and Sunday! All sessions are free to attend, click here to pre-register.
The Virtual House & Garden Show is presented by ORNL Federal Credit Union and sponsored by the Knoxville Utilities Board, Prism Pool and Backyard, and JKS Aquatics.
Solinity announced launch of marketing company
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. February 8, 2021 – Solinity announced the launch of new company, Solinity Marketing, and appoints veteran senior living marketing professional Kaleb Scharmahorn as president. Josh Crisp, senior living entrepreneur and founder and CEO of Solinity Marketing shares the goals of the company to provide senior living specific content development and online marketing services including brand development, website development, content strategy and creation, social media, online reputation management, public relations, lead generation and nurturing, email marketing and podcast production to clients in senior living and healthcare sectors.
“When I first launched Solinity in 2018, rather than continuing to pay agencies that didn’t understand seniors housing, I began investing in people that were great at marketing,” Crisp said. “As we began to have small successes, people asked if we could provide marketing services for them as well. Once the marketing division began to grow, I saw that it would quickly need someone with the knowledge and passion to provide full attention and leadership. The first person that came to mind was my long-time friend and marketing guru, Kaleb. I couldn’t be more excited to have him leading the team and know his expertise and passion to make a difference will serve our clients in the industry well.”
Scharmahorn brings nearly ten years of experience in senior living marketing and advertising with a focus on developing, designing and positioning brands to stand out among their competitors. His ability to lead teams and guide clients with an expert level of services that grows brands is exceptional.
“Great marketing is the perfect marriage between the art of creating and the science of getting results,” Scharmahorn said. “For that reason, I am honored and beyond excited to be leading the Solinity Marketing team in our relentless efforts to deliver the highest level of creativity and results-driven marketing to our partners and the senior care industry at-large. The landscape of senior care looks much different today than it has in the past, but one thing remains true, and that is Solinity Marketing’s commitment to helping great brands become greatly known for the great care they provide to our greatest generation.”
With expertise in brand creation, website development & optimization, photography and videography, social media management, email marketing, and content creation, Scharmahorn and the Solinity Marketing leadership team will focus on providing services to senior living and healthcare clients. The company is a Hubspot partner and will have a heavy emphasis on content-driven strategies that are specific to each client that drive data and results.
For more information on the team, services and company, visit SolinityMarketing.com.
Solinity is a progressive senior living developer, owner and operator that brings generations together to share experiences as well as live and work in a collaborative environment. The company focuses on boutique-style, affordable communities in the independent living, assisted living, and memory care continuum with multigenerational components. Solinity’s mission is to develop and lead teams that create and effectively manage communities, programs and services for the aging population. Based in Knoxville, TN, Solinity has tremendous expertise in consulting, development, management, and marketing. Building upon the foundation of Christian values and a belief that we all have a God-given purpose, Solinity is moving the senior care industry forward.
For more information about Solinity, please visit our website at www.solinity.com or call 833-865-8255.
Solinity Marketing is a full-service, senior living and healthcare-focused marketing agency offering unique, creative, and consistent online content to aid teams in expanding their reach with targeted messaging to meet the audience where they are. The company specializes in developing online strategies, creatively telling those brand stories, and helping senior living partners maximize their entire marketing and sales efforts. Solinity Marketing is a Hubspot partner with knowledge and expertise in creating and deploying robust online marketing strategies that work so partners can spend more time caring for those that matter most.
For more information about Solinity Marketing, please visit our website at www.solinitymarketing.com or call 833-865-8255.
Graduate Knoxville hosting Galentine’s Day pop-up with Kendra Scott
Graduate Knoxville’s Galentine’s Day pop-up with Kendra Scott will be on February 12th from 4-7pm, in the lobby. During the event, guests can gather safely with their gals for a welcome glass of champagne and an evening of jewelry shopping. All jewelry purchases will also come with a free Kendra Scott mask.
A professional photographer will also be onsite to snap photos of groups in front of a unique floral installation by Pink Petal Pusher. Please note that masks or face coverings are required for all attendees and all Graduate Cares safety measures will be in place. Guests can register for the free event here. While registration is not required, it is highly recommended to reserve a spot.
In addition to the pop-up, guests can book a room at Graduate Knoxville on Valentine’s Day and receive $50 in Saloon 16 credit, two rocks glasses, and a mini bottle of Jack Daniels to wash it all down. Guests can reserve a room here.
Socially-distant and safety measures will be observed. Masks or face coverings are required at all times. Learn more about Graduate Cares, our commitment to the health and safety of our communities and associates, at graduatehotels.com/graduatecares
Celebrate National Pizza Day with a slice at Pilot Flying J
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 5, 2021) – Pilot Flying J, the largest network of travel centers in North America, invites guests on Feb. 9, 2021, to enjoy a free slice of its ‘unexpectedly awesome’ pizza with the purchase of any size fountain drink in celebration of National Pizza Day.
Guests who download or open the Pilot Flying J app on Feb. 9, 2021, will find an exclusive one-time National Pizza Day offer redeemable at more than 350 participating Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers in the United States serving Pilot Flying J’s signature made-in-house pizza.
“Come enjoy a slice of the freshest pizza on the interstate to celebrate National Pizza Day,” said Jamie King, senior director of food and beverage for Pilot Flying J. “Our pizzas are baked daily and available in an assortment of recipes, so there’s something for every pizza lover.”
When redeeming the National Pizza Day offer, guests can choose from any of Pilot Flying J’s freshly prepared pizzas, including favorites such as cheese, pepperoni, mega meat, supreme, sausage gravy and loaded omelet, as well as the current limited-time buffalo chicken. Pilot Flying J pizzas are carefully prepared with a signature roped crust, made with real ingredients and are never frozen.
To learn more about Pilot Flying J’s pizza, visit PilotFlyingJ.com/Pizza and to find the closest Pilot or Flying J Travel Center, download the app.
*Data rates may apply. Participating locations only. Other terms and conditions may apply.
About Pilot Flying J
Pilot Flying J, the largest network of travel centers in North America, is committed to connecting people and places with comfort, care and a smile at every stop. The Pilot Flying J Travel Center network includes over 750 locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces with more than 680 restaurants, 74,000 truck parking spaces, 5,300 deluxe showers, 6,200 diesel lanes and provides truck maintenance and tire service through Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J. More details on locations and amenities are available on the Pilot Flying J app. Visit www.pilotflyingj.com for more information.
Pilot Flying J is part of the Pilot Company family of brands. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Pilot Company supplies more than 11 billion gallons of fuel per year and is currently ranked No. 10 on Forbes’ list of America’s Largest Private Companies. For additional information about Pilot Company and its commitment to team members and giving back, visit www.pilotcompany.com.
‘Reach for the Peaks’ on virtual hike with Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians
The Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians will “Reach for the Peaks” with a virtual hike in March to help the nonprofit raise much-needed funds due to the effects of the pandemic.
“Reach for the Peaks” is a 3.12-mile hike – March 12 is the 109-year anniversary of the founding of the Girl Scouts – and is open to Girl Scout troops, their friends and family and the public. Participants can get outside March 6-14, whether in the mountains or just around the block, to hike 3.12 miles, or a distance of their choice, during National Girl Scout Week.
“After many months of staying inside, ‘Reach for the Peaks’ will be a great opportunity for our community to get moving while also supporting the development of young girls,” said, Lynne Fugate, CEO of the Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians (GSCSA). “During the pandemic, our members have had a safe and positive outlet to connect with others, reaffirming how impactful Girl Scouts is in the lives of young girls. This virtual hike also will serve as a fundraiser so that our efforts can continue in 2021.”
“Reach for the Peaks” registration is $35 for the public and $20 for Girl Scout members and includes a special T-shirt. Supporters also can register to be a “Ghost Hiker” with a $25 donation to GSCSA without participating in the hike.
Participants can connect with other hikers by using the hashtag #ReachforthePeaks on social media.
For more information, including registration, visit girlscoutshike.org.
About Girl Scout Council of the Southern Appalachians
Girl Scouts is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls, offering programs that give every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of entrepreneurship, adventure, and success. The Girl Scout Council of the Southern Appalachians has more than 13,000 girl and adult members in 46 counties from southwest Virginia, through eastern Tennessee, and northern Georgia. Membership is open to all girls from kindergarten through their senior year in high school. Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. For more information, visit girlscoutcsa.org or call 800-474-1912.
Diversity Business Expo to be held online
The City of Knoxville, with fellow members of the East Tennessee Purchasing Association, will host the Diversity Business Expo on Thursday, March 4, 2021, from 8:30 – 11 a.m. via the Lunchpool online conference platform.
This annual event is designed to connect minority-owned, women-owned, service-disabled veterans-owned and small businesses — collectively known as Diversity Business Enterprises (DBEs) — with area agencies that purchase goods and services ranging from $100 to $25,000. Participating agencies include several City of Knoxville departments, including Knoxville Police and Fire, plus the county governments of Knox and Blount, Knoxville Utilities Board, Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation, University of Tennessee, Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority and many others.
In the most recent fiscal year, the City of Knoxville spent more than $4 million with minority-owned businesses — 5.71 percent of the total expenditure.
The virtual Expo will allow participants to join each other at “tables,” make presentations about upcoming contract opportunities, speak directly with agency decision makers, and exchange contact information through virtual business cards.
“COVID-19 has left many feeling uncertain and financially strapped,” said Mayor Indya Kincannon, who will welcome guests by video. “Our efforts to support DBEs must be more robust than ever because we know as a community that we are all stronger when we work together.”
Continuing the Expo in a virtual format is part of that ongoing outreach.
“The Expo is multi-faceted and can benefit businesses in a number of ways,” says Pamela Cotham, head of the City’s Small Business and Diversity Outreach Office. “Businesses will also be able to talk with small-business resource agencies like the Knoxville Area Urban League, SCORE and the Knoxville Chamber, as well as several general contractors interested in subcontracting on large projects.”
Admission is free, but registration is mandatory at https://2021dbexpo.questionpro.com by March 1. An optional orientation session will be held Feb. 24 via Zoom webinar for participants who would like to get familiar with the many functions of the Lunchpool platform before the Expo.
Anyone with questions should contact Diversity Business Specialist, Luis Garcia, at 865-215-2293 or at [email protected].
Anyone needing a disability accommodation to attend the expo should contact the City’s ADA Coordinator, Stephanie Cook, at [email protected] or 865-215-2034. For an English interpreter, contact Title VI Coordinator Tatia M. Harris at 865-215-2831.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede returns for 34th season of fun and adventure
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (February 4, 2021) – After another season of creating memories for its guests, Dolly Parton’s Stampede opens for its 34th season on February 12. Known for more than three decades as “the most fun place to eat in the Smokies,” the Stampede features an exciting line-up of amazing equestrian acts, friendly competition, foot-stomping music, comedic fun, and a four-course feast.
“Everything in our show – from the first feat of our talented equestrian performers to the last bite of our delicious four-course feast – is bigger than life, and it was such a privilege last year to bring families and friends together to make memories in a most unusual year,” said David Swangel, Stampede’s General Manager. “As we enter 2021, our dedicated cast members look forward to making every show the ultimate entertainment and dining experience. That’s why we look forward to every new season – we want guests to make memories they will hold onto for a lifetime.”
From the moment guests arrive, there are unique experiences to be made around every corner. Guests can start by visiting the signature Horse Walk to snap a picture with a few of the show’s stars. They enter the spacious 35,000 square-foot arena where the main show begins, and guests are introduced to the cast leading the show’s 32 magnificent horses through the performance. Thanks to a state-of-the-art LED back set wall, guests are immersed into an experience set in America’s Great Plains of yesteryear, where live buffalo and thundering longhorns roam and settlers bring the American West to life. With singing, dancing, special effects and impressive displays of horse-riding skills, guests truly feel like they are on the American frontier and then nestled under the stars in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Dinner, the other star of the show, includes Stampede’s signature four-course feast consisting of its very own creamy vegetable soup, a homemade buttery biscuit, a whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked barbequed pork loin, buttery corn on the cob, herb-basted potato, Stampede’s own specialty dessert and unlimited beverages including Coca-Cola® products, tea and coffee. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meals available upon request.
Laughter also has a starring role, with comedic fun from audience-favorite Skeeter and hilarious racing pigs. The Stampede experience concludes as the arena fills with the talented riders and their horses taking center-stage for a patriotic red, white and blue salute to America, featuring a special song sung by Dolly Parton.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede will continue to adhere to enhanced sanitation procedures and follow all other guidelines as provided by the CDC and state of Tennessee.
Show times and reservations are available by calling 865-453-4400 or visiting www.dpstampede.com.
Sea Ray and The Good Shepherd Center partner to impact Monroe County
The Good Shepherd Center is actively building its Community Partnership Program to aid in its ability to serve clients in Monroe County. Recently, the Good Shepherd Center announced a new Community Partnership Program with Sea Ray boats. The employees of Sea Ray’s Tellico manufacturing facility, located in the Tellico West Industrial Park, have previously partnered with the Good Shepherd Center in outreach efforts for the Vonore community.
The first effort from Sea Ray was a highly successful food drive. “The efforts from our employees was exciting to see. They helped collect, donate and deliver over 2,500 pounds of food for those in need,” said Kellie Hood, Director Human Resources for Brunswick Boat Group. “For our second program, we are organizing a coat drive to provide the Good Shephard Center with a clothing item that is in high demand.”
The Good Shepherd Center provides free food and clothing year-round and aims to increase its efforts this year. “We want to thank Sea Ray and its employees for their tremendous commitment. This type of partnering is a critical success factor in our ability to achieve our mission at the Good Shepherd. Sea Ray’s donation and commitment to our area came at a critical time of the year. We look forward to their future efforts,” said Tina Smith, Director at the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd also works with many local organizations including Walmart, Little Caesars pizza, FLEC, United Way of Monroe County and many area churches to provide food and additional services.
“We expect to increase our Community Partner network in 2021,” added Tina Smith. “Volunteers are always needed to continue to impact people in crisis in Monroe County.” The Community Partner Program was designed to offer local organizations an opportunity to build employee engagement, pride, and sense of volunteerism within Monroe County. Good Shepherd’s program includes opportunities for employees to volunteer at the center, lead drives for dental, food, clothing and household items and develop corporate funding and annual pledge plans. Regional corporate recognition campaigns for partners are included in the Good Shepherd program.
Demand at the Center has increased with many new families needing assistance due to the Covid-19 crisis. Currently, the Center serves an average of 1,500 people per month and distributes approximately 50 boxes of food per day, or 30,000 pounds of food per month.
Individuals and organizations can make a one-time donation, or a pledge to the Good Shepherd Center monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually. Any level of donation is appreciated, and contributions are tax deductible as the Center is a 501 (c) 3 organization.
The Good Shepherd Center was created to minister to people in crisis, it is a 501(c) (3) organization. The existing services are offered to any resident of Monroe County. The center provides free food, clothing, utility vouchers, household items and transportation. Currently they average assisting 1,500 people per month and issues approximately 30,000 Lbs. of food each month. Financial and services are primarily provided by donations from churches, individuals, business and civic organizations. Donations can be mailed to: The Good Shepherd Center, PO Box 353, 5150 Hwy 411 S, Madisonville, TN 37354. The Center’s phone number is 423-420-8888
Headquartered in Knoxville, Sea Ray is the world’s leading creator of superior quality pleasure boats. For more than 60 years, Sea Ray has pushed the limits of performance and craftsmanship to elevate the boating experience. Each Sea Ray is designed to make every moment exceptional, supporting boaters’ unique lifestyles with a customized balance of unparalleled comfort and performance and world-class technology throughout. Learn more about the Sea Ray Experience at SeaRay.com.
KCDC earns $850,000 grant to support construction of 12 single-family homes
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) recently awarded Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC) an $850,000 grant to help build 12 single-family homes on infill lots in the Five Points community.
The City of Knoxville previously had committed $300,000 in affordable rental development for construction of the homes and the $850,000 grant through THDA’s National Housing Trust Fund ensures the viability of the construction project. The design of the infill homes will blend into the fabric of an already-established neighborhood.
THDA considered nine grant applications from Tennessee agencies and housing authorities and awarded seven with KCDC scoring the highest among all applicants.
Construction on the four- and five-bedroom homes is expected to start in early 2021.
“We have significant demand for larger units within our existing communities, and this funding will help increase that supply,” KCDC Executive Director and CEO Ben Bentley said. “The success in earning this competitive grant is a testament to our team at KCDC.”
The sites are vacant and either already are owned by KCDC or have been conveyed from the City of Knoxville.
“Adding this infill housing will provide much-needed homes and transform unused lots into functional space for single families,” Bentley said.
About Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation
Since 1936, KCDC has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the citizens of Knoxville. KCDC’s mission is to improve and transform neighborhoods and communities by providing high-quality affordable housing, advancing development initiatives and fostering self-sufficiency. For more information, call 865-403-1100 or visit https://www.kcdc.org/.
Keep Knoxville Beautiful to host third annual North Knoxville Community Cleanup
Keep Knoxville Beautiful (KKB) will be hosting the third annual North Knoxville Community Cleanup on Saturday, March 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The event will kick off at Edgewood Park, 3109 Ocoee Trail.
The North Knoxville Community Cleanup is KKB’s largest cleanup effort in North Knoxville each year. KKB is now seeking groups and individuals to participate in the 2021 cleanup. Volunteers can register at http://www.keepknoxvillebeautiful.org/upcoming/
Leaders from various North Knoxville neighborhoods and local community organizations will collect cleanup supplies at Edgewood Park, then return to volunteers waiting at their designated locations to pick up litter. Participating neighborhood associations include Fountaincrest Neighborhood. Other clubs and groups that are participating are Skooterville, Lambda Phi Epsilon, UT ASLA, Pizza Hut, and SAM LLC.
Individuals who do not have an official group will participate in a KKB cleanup of First Creek at Broadway Shopping Center or the areas surrounding Edgewood Park.
Keep Knoxville Beautiful would like to thank our generous sponsors of the North Knoxville Community Cleanup: Aslan Foundation, Three Rivers Market, First Neighborhoods Realty, TVA, and Nobody Trashes Tennessee.
Founded in 1978 to help “clean up” prior to the 1982 World’s Fair, Keep Knoxville Beautiful is a local non-profit with a mission to promote a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful community. We pursue this by:
- Educating students and the public about waste-prevention, litter, recycling, and environmental stewardship
- Facilitating and supporting litter pickups that make our roads and local waterways cleaner
- Creating and protecting murals and hosting beautification mobs to make Knoxville a more beautiful and interesting place to live and visit
During 2019-20, we
- Facilitated or supported 243 litter pickups
- Collected 36,492 pounds of litter
- Managed 7 beautification projects
- Reached 1,317 kids with our presentations
- Used our recycling trailer and recycling bins to provide recycling for 10 events
- Worked with 2,090 volunteers
- Facilitated 5,756 volunteer hours
To learn more about Keep Knoxville Beautiful, visit keepknoxvillebeautiful.org
Comcast introduces the fastest internet speeds over wi-fi across Tennessee
(NASHVILLE, Tenn. – February 2, 2021) – Comcast announced today that in March it will introduce the fastest speed over Wi-Fi available in Tennessee. Customers will be able to take advantage of advanced Wi-Fi technology that is capable of delivering speeds faster than a Gig to support the ever-increasing number of connected devices in their homes. The upgrade to the Xfinity Gigabit service is part of a national rollout that began recently in the company’s Northeast markets.
Additionally, effective immediately, Tennessee’s Xfinity Extreme customers will see their download speed increase from 300 Mbps to 400 Mbps, followed by automatic upgrades to the company’s Extreme Pro packages from 600 Mbps to 800 Mbps later in the first quarter of 2021. The upgrades will be made at no additional cost to customers in Tennessee who will benefit from the new speeds.
“We recognize that Comcast plays an important role in helping our customers stay connected so we are constantly advancing our Internet product with new innovation,” said Jason Gumbs, Comcast’s Regional Senior Vice President. “Our state-of-the-art gateways with Wi-Fi 6 technology, wall-to-wall Wi-Fi coverage, personalized tools and controls and advanced cybersecurity, are all helping to make our customers’ connectivity experience better than it has ever been.”
Comcast is also one of the first U.S. Internet Service Providers to offer a Wi-Fi 6 Certified gateway with the latest version of its xFi Advanced Gateway, which is capable of delivering multi-Gigabit speeds via ethernet and laid the groundwork for Gigabit speeds over Wi-Fi. Customers on the new upgraded Xfinity Gigabit tier will require an xFi Advanced Gateway, or one of the Wi-Fi 6 capable devices approved to work with the Xfinity network to receive the faster speeds. Comcast will be reaching out to Gigabit Internet customers who need to upgrade their equipment for no additional cost if they don’t have a capable device in their home. Xfinity Extreme and Extreme Pro will not require new equipment to take advantage of this speed increase.
According to The Xfinity Cyber Health Report, some users have dozens of devices in their home. Increased internet speeds support faster connections and more capacity to support the growing number of smart home devices that are being added to home Wi-Fi networks today and in the future.
Comcast’s Xfinity Gigabit Internet service is delivered using Comcast’s existing network architecture and the connections that are already in most customers’ homes.
Since 2017 alone, Comcast has devoted more than $12 billion to strengthening and expanding its network – including building more than 33,000 new route miles of fiber. Every 2.5 years the company adds as much capacity to the network as it added in all the previous years combined.
Comcast’s residential broadband service is powered by xFi – a simple, digital dashboard for Xfinity customers to control their home Wi-Fi network. In addition to parental control features like pausing Wi-Fi and screen time scheduling, xFi provides content filters that ensure younger children can only access age-appropriate content. xFi now also comes with xFi Advanced Security, that protects all the devices connected to a customers’ home network from malware and other security threats. xFi can be accessed via the Xfinity mobile app (iOS and Android), or on the TV, on X1 and Flex, with the Xfinity Voice Remote. The feature is available at no extra cost to about 20 million Xfinity Internet customers who lease a compatible xFi gateway.
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company with three primary businesses: Comcast Cable, NBCUniversal, and Sky. Comcast Cable is one of the United States’ largest high-speed internet, video, and phone providers to residential customers under the Xfinity brand, and also provides these services to businesses. It also provides wireless and security and automation services to residential customers under the Xfinity brand. NBCUniversal is global and operates news, entertainment and sports cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, television production operations, television station groups, Universal Pictures, and Universal Parks and Resorts. Sky is one of Europe’s leading media and entertainment companies, connecting customers to a broad range of video content through its pay television services. It also provides communications services, including residential high-speed internet, phone, and wireless services. Sky operates the Sky News broadcast network and sports and entertainment networks, produces original content, and has exclusive content rights. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
ADMA Biologics receives FDA approval for ADMA BioCenters plasma collection facility
RAMSEY, N.J., BOCA RATON, Fla. and KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – February 1, 2021 – ADMA Biologics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADMA) (“ADMA”), an end-to-end commercial biopharmaceutical company dedicated to manufacturing, marketing and developing specialty plasma-derived biologics, today announced that it has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) approval for its ADMA BioCenters plasma collection facility located in Knoxville, Tennessee. This plasma collection facility commenced operations and initiated source plasma collection in the third quarter of 2020, and with today’s approval, it is now FDA licensed to collect and introduce into interstate commerce human source plasma for further manufacturing in the U.S.
“The approval of this plasma collection facility was received well-ahead of the scheduled FDA goal date. This milestone represents yet another example of the Company’s continued progression towards achieving its objective of further securing its raw material supply chain and enhancing our end-to-end control of manufacturing operations,” said Adam Grossman, President and Chief Executive Officer of ADMA. “With the Knoxville approval, we remain comfortably on track to achieve our goal of building out up to 10 plasma collection centers by 2024, including the potential approval of our plasma collection facility located in Maryville, Tennessee in the second half of this year, as well as the filing of Biologics License Applications (“BLAs”) for an additional two plasma collection centers. 2021 is off to an excellent start for our Company and today’s approval is the first in what we expect to be a series of value-creating FDA decisions during the year across all business segments. These achievements are expected to enhance the supply chain, increase product yields and improve margins for our revenue generating products as we continue towards profitability.”
This new, state-of-the-art plasma collection center features automated registration, high-tech collection equipment designed to shorten the donation process, free Wi-Fi wireless network in the donor collection area, individual flat-screen TVs with cable at each donor station, and highly trained and certified staff who put donor comfort and safety first. At full capacity, the plasma center expects to maintain a staff of 50 highly trained healthcare workers. This center is approved to use the state-of-the-art Haemonetics NexSys plasma collection system.
About ADMA BioCenters
ADMA BioCenters is an FDA licensed facility specializing in the collection of human plasma used to make special medications for the treatment and prevention of diseases. Managed by a team of experts who have decades of experience in the specialized field of plasma collection, ADMA BioCenters provides a safe, professional and pleasant donation environment. ADMA BioCenters strictly follows FDA regulations and guidance and enforces cGMP (current good manufacturing practices) in all of its facilities. For more information about ADMA BioCenters, please visit www.admabiocenters.com.
About ADMA Biologics, Inc. (ADMA)
ADMA Biologics is an end-to-end commercial biopharmaceutical company dedicated to manufacturing, marketing and developing specialty plasma-derived biologics for the treatment of immunodeficient patients at risk for infection and others at risk for certain infectious diseases. ADMA currently manufactures and markets three United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved plasma-derived biologics for the treatment of immune deficiencies and the prevention of certain infectious diseases: BIVIGAM® (immune globulin intravenous, human) for the treatment of primary humoral immunodeficiency (PI); ASCENIV™ (immune globulin intravenous, human – slra 10% liquid) for the treatment of PI; and NABI-HB® (hepatitis B immune globulin, human) to provide enhanced immunity against the hepatitis B virus. ADMA manufactures its immune globulin products at its FDA-licensed plasma fractionation and purification facility located in Boca Raton, Florida. Through its ADMA BioCenters subsidiary, ADMA also operates as an FDA-approved source plasma collector in the U.S., which provides a portion of its blood plasma for the manufacture of its products. ADMA’s mission is to manufacture, market and develop specialty plasma-derived, human immune globulins targeted to niche patient populations for the treatment and prevention of certain infectious diseases and management of immune compromised patient populations who suffer from an underlying immune deficiency, or who may be immune compromised for other medical reasons. ADMA has received U.S. Patents: 9,107,906, 9,714,283, 9,815,886, 9,969,793 and 10,259,865 related to certain aspects of its products and product candidates. For more information, please visit www.admabiologics.com.
Association of Women Executives seeks Notable Woman nominations for 2021 award
The Knoxville Association of Women Executives (KAWE) is seeking nominations to recognize a Notable Woman, someone who has distinguished herself by achieving a position in which she can affect the strategic direction of an organization in a profession, business, charity, creative art, or sport; contribute to her community; and maintain a life balance. She will have demonstrated exceptional ability and courage in overcoming obstacles and in creating value in her spheres of influence. A cash award will be contributed to a charity of the winning nominee’s choice. Eligibility is limited to women living in, or contributing to, the greater Knoxville area which includes Knox and surrounding counties. Nominations must be received between April 1 and June 30, 2021. Please go online at KAWETN.org to obtain a nomination form. Applications should be sent to: [email protected].
KAWE is a women’s organization designed to provide professional and businesswomen opportunities for professional networking, professional and personal support, professional development, and leadership development.
Knoxville Museum of Art presents A Lasting Imprint: Rendering Rhythm and Motion in the Art of Black Mountain College
January 31, 2021 (Knoxville, TN) – The Knoxville Museum of Art presents A Lasting Imprint: Rendering Rhythm and Motion in the Art of Black Mountain College now through May 2, 2021. More than 50 prints, textiles, drawings, paintings and sculptures drawn from the extensive holdings of the Asheville Art Museum document a particularly rich and creative moment of radical experimentation with ways to integrate music, movement, and the visual arts. The exhibition includes work by the most adventurous and influential artists associated with Black Mountain College including Josef and Anni Albers, Ruth Asawa, Ilya Bolotowsky, John Cage, Buckminster Fuller, Lorna Blaine Halper, Kenneth Noland, Robert Rauschenberg, Marianne Preger-Simon, and Kenneth Snelson.
Black Mountain College, an experimental school in the North Carolina mountains near Asheville, was active from 1933 to 1957. The secluded environment fostered a strong sense of individuality, inter-disciplinary experimentation, and creative intensity, and served as a key setting in which artists revolutionized a broad range of modern art forms. Movement and music—both time-based activities—can be difficult to express in static media such as painting, drawing, and photography, yet many artists feel called to explore them. Movement serves as inspiration—either to capture it or to create it in entirely different media. Similarly, music is driven by rhythm, patterns, and variations that are enticing departures for visual artists. In few places did movement, music, visual arts, and myriad other disciplines intermingle with such impact as they did at Black Mountain College, which profoundly influenced the course of American modernism.
A Lasting Imprint is organized by the Asheville Art Museum (AAM), Asheville, North Carolina and features key works from the museum’s Black Mountain College Collection. The AAM has been collecting works of art and materials related to Black Mountain College for over 25 years in recognition of the college’s importance to Western North Carolina and to the development of American art. In addition to collecting works produced by key BMC artists during the years the school was active, the AAM also seeks to acquire works by those artists from other periods in order to represent a broad spectrum of their development. The Museum has been fortunate to continually grow its Black Mountain College Collection through gifts from students, faculty, and their families and strategic Museum purchases. Noted scholar and author Mary Emma Harris of the Black Mountain College Project provided essential guidance to the development of the Asheville Art Museum’s Black Mountain College Collection.
Presenting sponsor is The Guild of the KMA
The Knoxville Museum of Art
The Knoxville Museum of Art celebrates the art and artists of East Tennessee, presents new art and new ideas, serves and educates diverse audiences, and enhances Knoxville’s quality of life. The museum is located in downtown Knoxville at 1050 World’s Fair Park and is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 1-5pm. Admission and parking are free. For more information, contact David Butler at [email protected] or visit www.knoxart.org.
KoPita Vegan and KoPita Meat offer 50% discount for anyone in uniform
KoPita Vegan and KoPita Meat, located on Gay Street in Knoxville, are wanting to help those in uniform. All uniforms.
Any orders, dine-in or carry-out, are going to be discounted by 50% through April 2021. Police, nurse, fireman, doctor, parking attendants, and anyone else that has a uniform – just drop by wearing it when you place your order.
“The times are challenging for everyone,” says Chef and co-owner Avi Zenatti. “We hope this simple gesture will add a little boost to the day of those working to serve our community, in any way.”
Eastman to build plastic-to-plastic molecular recycling facility to support an optimized circular economy
KINGSPORT, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and Eastman officials announced today that the company will build one of the world’s largest plastic-to-plastic recycling facilities at its site in Kingsport, Tenn.
A global leader in plastics, chemicals and fibers, Eastman will invest approximately $250 million in the facility over the next two years, which will support the company’s commitment to addressing global waste solutions and mitigating challenges created by climate change, while also creating value for its stakeholders.
The facility, which is expected to be mechanically complete by year-end 2022, will contribute to Eastman achieving its ambitious sustainability commitments for addressing the plastic waste crisis, which includes recycling more than 500 million pounds of plastic waste annually via molecular recycling technologies by 2030. The company has committed to recycling more than 250 million pounds of plastic waste annually by 2025.
Through methanolysis, Eastman’s new world-scale facility will convert polyester waste that often ends up in landfills and waterways into durable products, creating an optimized circular economy.
Utilizing Eastman’s polyester renewal technology, the facility will use over 100,000 metric tons of plastic waste that cannot be recycled by current mechanical methods to produce premium, high-quality specialty plastics made with recycled content. This process of using plastic waste as the main feedstock is a true material-to-material solution and will not only reduce the company’s future use of fossil feedstocks, but also reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20-30 percent relative to fossil feedstocks.
Eastman was one of the pioneers in developing methanolysis technology at commercial scale and has more than three decades of expertise in this innovative recycling process. Eastman’s experience with methanolysis makes it uniquely qualified to be a leader in delivering this solution at commercial scale. Advanced circular recycling technology can be an especially impactful solution, as low-quality polyester waste that cannot be mechanically recycled and would typically be diverted to landfills, incineration or end up in the environment can instead be recycled into high-quality polyesters suitable for use in a variety of end-use durable applications.
Over the last five years, TNECD has supported more than 40 economic development projects in Northeast Tennessee, resulting in approximately 4,700 job commitments and $773 million in capital investment.
“Eastman is a global leader in the materials sector, and we are grateful that they continue to be one of the largest employers in our state. I’d like to thank the company for their continuous investment in Kingsport and for focusing on innovative technology that enhances the quality of life for people not just in Tennessee, but around the world.” – Gov. Bill Lee
“Eastman employs more than one-third of the Tennesseans that work in our state’s chemical industry, and we applaud the company for expanding its capabilities in Kingsport while reaffirming its commitment to sustainability. The groundbreaking work done at Eastman’s Sullivan County headquarters makes an international impact, and we are proud that the company continues to grow and invest in Northeast Tennessee.” – TNECD Commissioner Bob Rolfe
“With the growing demand for products made with recycled content and the urgent need to address the global plastic waste crisis, now is the time for Eastman to take this step. We are grateful for our partnership with Governor Lee in making today’s announcement possible. Thanks to the support of the State of Tennessee and our local officials, we are able to build this facility in our home state, which we believe positions Tennessee to be a leader in enabling the circular economy and an example for others to follow. This will be a great investment for our local community and our customers, while also creating small business jobs to develop the recycling infrastructure necessary to support investment in a sustainable future.” – Mark Costa, Eastman board chair and CEO
“I’m excited with the opportunity for Eastman – and the region. We are all pleased Eastman continues to invest in Sullivan County and create job opportunities. This is a truly new phase of growth for Eastman – and we appreciate work done by Governor Lee and others to facilitate this major investment.” – Sen. Jon Lundberg (R–Bristol)
“Eastman has made significant contributions to our community over the last one hundred years. I am grateful they are continuing to invest in our district’s most valuable resource–our workforce.” – Rep. Bud Hulsey (R–Kingsport)
About Eastman
Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive and diverse company, Eastman employs approximately 14,500 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2019 revenues of approximately $9.3 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies that help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. To grow and strengthen Tennessee, the department seeks to attract new corporate investment to the state and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. Find us on the web: tnecd.com. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @tnecd. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/tnecd.