Knoxville Biz Ticker: United Way of Greater Knoxville launches program dedicated to helping low-income families grow beyond vulnerabilities and achieve self-sufficiency
United Way of Greater Knoxville launches program dedicated to helping low-income families grow beyond vulnerabilities and achieve self-sufficiency
January 31, 2023 – Knoxville, Tenn. – The United Way of Greater Knoxville announced today the launch of its innovative $25 million, three-year care coordination program for East Tennessee families. The program, called the East Tennessee Collaborative (ETC), is now accepting referrals and eligible families can apply to be part of the program at http://www.etncollaborative.org. The ETC program is designed to increase economic opportunity pathways, enhance social supports, and help families navigate the pitfalls of the “benefits cliff.”
“Families experience the benefits cliff when circumstances such as a career advancement or a raise at work puts a family above the income eligibility threshold for public assistance programs,” said Kaki Reynolds, Director of the East Tennessee Collaborative. “Due to the loss of these benefits, a family may end up financially worse off than they were before their income increase. This risk deters individuals from career advancement opportunities, as a loss of benefits could be detrimental to their families. This is something we’re actively trying to address in our work over the next three years.”
Using the Economic Mobility Pathways (EMPath) model, the ETC will have fifteen “Mobility Mentors” placed in local organizations to walk with families on their journey to self-sufficiency and assist in accessing services and resources. Approximately $15 million of the funds will go to helping families via vouchers and other financial assistance, as well as to nonprofits to help build capacity through new services or to strengthen existing services so that they are able to serve more people. In its first year, the ETC will focus on serving families in Knox County. Years two and three will have a more regional focus.
The ETC’s partner organizations include:
Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley
YMCA of East Tennessee
YWCA Knoxville and the Tennessee Valley
Knox Area Urban League
Centro Hispano de East Tennessee
In April 2022, United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) was one of seven public-private groups selected by the TN Families First Community Advisory Board to receive a $25 million Tennessee Opportunity Pilot Initiative (TOPI) grant. UWGK serves as the backbone organization for the ETC and brings experience in administering large state grants and working collaboratively across all community sectors.
“According to ALICE, a statewide data project which provides a comprehensive measure of financial hardship across our state, nearly half of all families in Knox County are at or below the poverty line,” said Matt Ryerson, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Knoxville. “The East Tennessee Collaborative is designed to be a hand up to those families who are ready to stand on their own, yet don’t know how to take that next step or what services are available to them. We believe this program will be the bridge to independence these families truly need.”
About Families First and TANF
Families First is Tennessee’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. TANF is a federally funded program that emphasizes work, family strengthening, and personal responsibility to empower families for long-term success. The program helps participants reach this goal by providing temporary cash assistance, transportation, childcare assistance, educational support, job training, and other support services.
Tennessee Opportunity Pilot Initiative (TOPI)
The Tennessee Opportunity Pilot Initiative (TOPI) was brought forth by the TANF Opportunity Act. This initiative helps individuals, families, and the State of Tennessee by creating a new vision for Tennessee’s social safety net and is dedicated to helping low-income families grow beyond their vulnerabilities. TOPI empowers all Tennesseans by partnering with local organizations to reach deep into their communities and work shoulder to shoulder with individuals and families, growing their capacity to take on life’s challenges and reducing their dependency on the social safety net.
About the East Tennessee Collaborative (ETC)
The East Tennessee Collaborative (ETC) is a local, cross-agency collaborative between the United Way of Greater Knoxville as the backbone organization and local partner organizations. As a grantee of TOPI, the ETC aims to reduce poverty, increase economic opportunity pathways, and enhance social supports in a relational and comprehensive, evidence-based approach using the Economic Opportunity Pathways (EMPath) model.
About United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK)
United Way of Greater Knoxville (UWGK) is part of United Way Worldwide, the largest charitable organization in the world. Through more than 112 programs in nearly 48 agencies, UWGK is an innovative problem-solver and facilitator of social change dedicated to creating a more equitable Greater Knoxville region with stable housing, financial security, quality early care and education, access to food, and more. For more information, visit www.uwgk.org.
Nominate neighborhoods for achievement awards
The City of Knoxville Office of Neighborhood Empowerment seeks applications for the annual Neighborhood Achievement Awards, which recognize the work of neighborhood organizations in improving, protecting and enhancing their neighborhoods.
Neighbors can tout their own achievements or nominate a neighborhood group whose activities they want to applaud. Neighbors and their achievements will be recognized at the City of Knoxville’s Neighborhood Awards Dinner, a new, invitation-only event being held this year to recognize neighbors and their achievements.
Nomination-worthy activities include:
Beautification and place-making projects, green spaces, community gardens, and other physical improvements to the neighborhood;
Projects, events and activities that focus on connecting neighbors with one another, like street fairs, potlucks, home tours, holiday celebrations, and neighbors helping neighbors;
New or ongoing communication efforts such as newsletters, social media and phone tree networks; and
Activities related to launching, reviving or strengthening a neighborhood group.
Neighborhood leaders who would like to be considered for a Neighborhood Achievement Award should fill out this form and return it to Courtney Durrett at cdurrett@knoxvilletn.gov before 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3, 2023. For additional information, call Durrett at 865-215-3456.
Knoxville Biz Ticker: Applications open for KEC’s 'What’s The Big Idea?' pitch competition
KEC is excited to announce that applications for the annual pitch competition, “What’s The Big Idea?”, are officially open as of January 11th, 2023! This year’s competition will bring our region’s best and brightest founders and ideas together, all competing for the $10,000 grand prize.
We’re excited to announce that we’re bringing back a widely popular aspect of the competition this year – Public Voting! Once all applications are submitted by February 3rd, the KEC team will ask a select number of companies to submit a 2-minute pitch. Then, starting February 13th, the public will be able to vote on their favorite companies and ideas! The number of public votes a company receives will have an impact on the final teams selected for the official competition.
The final competition will take place over the span of a single 48 hour weekend, March 3rd - 5th with an in-person finale event on March 5th.
Do you have an idea that could be the next big thing? Want a chance to work with mentors to dial in your pitch? What’s The Big Idea could be the event for you!
For more information, visit https://knoxec.com/what-we-do/programs/wtbi/
Residents invited to provide feedback on funding priorities
The City’s Housing and Neighborhood Development department seeks input from residents on how the City should prioritize spending federal dollars on local projects that support affordable housing and community development activities in Knoxville neighborhoods.
A public meeting will be held Tuesday, Jan. 31, 6 p.m. at the City’s Public Works Service Center, at 3131 Morris Avenue.
The public meeting provides residents and others the opportunity to give feedback that will inform the City’s 2023-2024 Annual Action Plan, a roadmap of how the City proposes to spend allocations from U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s grant programs: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Act, and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds.
The annual process begins with consultation with nonprofit agencies and other stakeholders on unmet needs and gaps in the categories of: Non-housing Community Development needs, including economic development, neighborhood stabilization, public services, public facility and infrastructure improvements; Homelessness needs; and Affordable Housing needs.
Staff will discuss anticipated HUD and local funding; review priority goals and objectives from its 2020-2024 Five Year Consolidated Plan.
The draft Annual Action Plan will be available for public review and comment March 31 to April 30.
Residents who can’t attend the meeting and would like to give input or have questions, please contact Linda Rust at lrust@knoxvilletn.gov.
Also at the meeting:
Staff members will provide information to representatives of agencies planning to apply for Program Year 2023-2024 CDBG and Homeless Grants.
Application will be posted Wednesday, Feb. 1, at KnoxvilleTN.gov/development. This is the first year applications will be accepted exclusively online via the Zoom Grants platform. Technical assistance will be available for applicants during sessions Feb. 3, 10 and 17, at 10 a.m. at the Public Works Service Center.
Applicants must attend one of the two Technical Assistance Workshops being held on Feb. 7 and 8. The deadline to apply is noon on Feb. 22, 2023.
The City of Knoxville ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services.
Individuals with a disability who require an accommodation in order to participate may contact the City of Knoxville’s ADA Coordinator, Stephanie Brewer Cook at 865-215-2034 or scook@knoxvilletn.gov no less than 72 business hours (3 business days) prior to the meeting you wish to attend. If you have Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and want to request language translation services, contact the Human Resources Department at titlevi@knoxvilletn.gov, or 865-215-3100 at least 48 hours (2 days) prior to the meeting.
Welch Packaging announces acquisition of Knox Box
ELKHART, IN, December 30, 2022 – Welch Packaging announces their acquisition of Knoxville Box and Container, Inc., based in Knoxville, TN from Chris Castleberry. Knox Box was founded in 1985 by Horace Harper Jr and later purchased by Castleberry in 2016. The company has provided corrugated boxes, wood crates and packaging supplies to the East Tennessee market for more than 30 years. Today, Knox Box has a dedicated workforce and a loyal customer base. By joining the Welch family of businesses, Knox Box will now have expanded capabilities, as well as the resources to automate equipment and invest in people, while preserving its family culture.
Welch Packaging, which also started in 1985, has spent the last 37 years focused on expanding its original vision: To Make a Difference in its customers’ business, its associates lives, and its community. This cause unites our associate family and creates great value for our business partners.” Stated Scott Welch of Welch Packaging.
About Welch Packaging
Founded in 1985 as Elkhart Container, this family-owned business has grown to be a network of corrugated packaging companies supported by a network of wholly owned sheet feeders. Welch businesses provide a variety of corrugated products, exceptional services, and packaging solutions for local customers. Welch Packaging serves its market from 18 locations and three distribution centers with over 1,300 associates. Providing a personal approach to business, Welch companies invest in their communities and their associates. Welch Packaging provides industrial packaging, retail ready packaging, as well as assembly and fulfillment services.
Ole Smoky and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. partner with Second Harvest Food Bank for February 'Spread the Love' campaign
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 24, 2023)– Ole Smoky Distillery and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. have teamed up with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee for the charity’s annual ‘Spread the Love’ campaign. Through the month of February, a portion of proceeds from Ole Smoky Peanut Butter Whiskey and Yee-Haw Peanut Butter Stout will be donated to Second Harvest.
"Ole Smoky is dedicated to ongoing charitable efforts and supporting many organizations with our shared values and the mission to give back to the Tennessee community.” said Robert Hall, CEO, Ole Smoky Distillery. “We’re excited to continue partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank and hope fans will help support their mission by purchasing these two delicious peanut butter products.”
"Yee-Haw Brewing is a proud supporter of Second Harvest and committed to spreading the love in the communities we serve,” said Jennifer Podhajsky, CEO of Yee-Haw Brewing Co. “We're excited to once again partner with the Spread the Love campaign to raise funds for such a worthy cause."
Second Harvest’s mission is to provide food to people facing hunger and work to advance hunger solutions in Middle Tennessee. The charity’s ‘Spread the Love’ campaign aims to help raise awareness, encouraging people to donate jars of peanut butter and purchase products from participating partners.
“Second Harvest is asking all of our friends to help us this month by donating peanut butter or other spreadable foods,” said Valerie Reta, Manager of Community Partnerships at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. “We are thankful for partners like Ole Smoky and Yee-Haw Brewing committing to do their part in the fight against hunger. With their donations, they will be fundamental in helping Second Harvest provide food to the one in eight people who are food insecure in Middle and West Tennessee.”
Ole Smoky’s Peanut Butter Whiskey and Yee-Haw Brewing’s Peanut Butter Stout can be enjoyed at Nashville’s 6th & Peabody, the 30,000 square-foot entertainment complex at 423 6th Avenue. Yee-Haw’s Peanut Butter Stout showcases chocolate malt, natural cacao, and peanut butter. A heavy, yet approachable flavor profile perfect for winter days and chilly evenings. Ole Smoky’s Peanut Butter Whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in delicious recipes like PB&J Shot, Peanut Butter Cup Night Cap, and Spiked Chocolate Milk. Recipes and where to purchase can be found online here.
For more information on ‘Spread the Love’ campaign and ways to give back, visit www.secondharvestmidtn.org/events/spread-the-love.
About Ole Smoky® Distillery LLC
Ole Smoky is the leading distiller of premium moonshine in the world, the leading craft distiller in the U.S. and the first federally licensed distillery in the history of East Tennessee. Founded in 2010, Ole Smoky's roots are traced to the Smoky Mountains' earliest settlers, families who produced moonshine with enduring pride and Appalachian spirit. Ole Smoky has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 List of the fastest growing private companies in America for three consecutive years – 2020, 2021, and 2022, as well as receiving the 2021 Shanken Communications’ Hot Brand and Blue Chip Brand Award and 2022 Growth Brand Awards for Moonshine, Canned Cocktails, and Peanut Butter Whiskey. Today, Ole Smoky’s 25 creative moonshine flavors and 17 inventive whiskey flavors can be found in all 50 states and at the company's four famed distilleries in Tennessee: The Holler and The Barrelhouse in Gatlinburg, The Barn in Pigeon Forge, and 6th & Peabody in Nashville. For more information, please visit olesmoky.com and follow Ole Smoky on social media @olesmoky.
About Yee-Haw Brewing
Founded in 2015, Yee-Haw Brewing Co. started in a historic railroad depot built in the late 1800's in Johnson City, TN. Quickly growing from a start up to one of the fastest developing craft breweries in the southeast, Yee-Haw Brewing currently has taprooms in Johnson City, TN, Pigeon Forge, TN, Gatlinburg, TN, Nashville, TN (a campus shared with Ole Smoky Moonshine), Greenville, SC and Knoxville, TN.
Yee-Haw is an award-winning brewery with several beer championship awards at the state and national level. Built on a strong foundation of core beers and rotating seasonal beers, each location has experienced brewers on-site that develop specialty craft beers reflecting their local markets.
Yee-Haw Brewing is about more than beer, it's about creating an environment for good times with good people. Yee-Haw's focus is to create a space where communities have a place to gather and create memories with family and friends, old and new.
About Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee
For more than 40 years, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee has followed its mission to provide food to people facing hunger and work to advance hunger solutions. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Second Harvest distributes food and other products to approximately 450 nonprofit partner agencies in 46 counties in Middle and West Tennessee. Our partners include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, childcare facilities, senior centers, group homes, and youth enrichment programs. For more information about Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, its mission and programs, please visit secondharvestmidtn.org.
Applications open for City's Community Agency Grant funding
The City of Knoxville is now accepting applications from local non-profit organizations for grant funding available through the Community Agency Grant (CAG) program for Fiscal Year 2023-24, which begins July 1, 2023.
During Mayor Indya Kincannon’s administration, Council has approved more than $5.3 million in CAG funding to support dozens of arts & culture partners, non-profit service providers, youth-serving organizations, and other local partners that serve and connect Knoxville residents.
Applicants are asked to illustrate how their activities and programs help the City meet its core goals and priorities: public safety; healthy and connected neighborhoods; sustainability and thriving businesses; and good jobs.
Applying agencies must operate within Knoxville city limits, be certified as a nonprofit for a minimum of five years, and be registered as a charitable organization with Tennessee Secretary of State or have a current exemption.
CAG funding has two categories “Arts and Culture" and “Community and Social Services.”
Arts and Culture includes museums, arts organizations, and groups that present and promote the performing arts and cultural experiences from a variety of heritages and backgrounds. Community and Social Services include organizations that meet a variety of community needs. Application forms are posted at KnoxvilleTN.gov/citygrants.
All completed and signed applications must be submitted by mail, in person or electronically by 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
For additional information about the Community Agency Grant program, or to obtain an application by mail, visit KnoxvilleTN.gov/citygrants or contact Jennifer Searle at jsearle@knoxvilletn.gov or 865-215-2267.
Truist congratulates leadership team
Truist – January 19, 2023 – We’re thrilled to congratulate, Harry Gross, Greater Knoxville Market President, Bronson Boucher, Regional Commercial Real Estate Banker for East TN, Hayden Oakley Senior Vice President of Not for Profit and Government Banking for East TN, and David Hancock, Middle Market Banking Leader covering the state of TN, on their new roles at Truist.
Your exceptional leadership and commitment to care makes us better. Thank you for the dedication you bring to Truist clients and the Greater Knoxville community.
Greenworks revolutionizes Morristown with its first North American Commercial Center of Excellence for Manufacturing and Engineering
MOORESVILLE, N.C. – January 19, 2023 – Greenworks Commercial, the leading provider of lithium-ion battery-operated, zero-emission outdoor power equipment, expanded its global footprint by opening the doors to its 180,000-square-foot Commercial Center of Excellence for Manufacturing and Engineering in Morristown, TN, its first in North America.
“I’m extremely proud that Greenworks chose Morristown/Hamblen County for its newest manufacturing plant,” said Hamblen County Mayor, Bill Britain. “Greenworks brings new technology and job opportunities to our community. I wish the company well and am committed to its success.”
The facility’s initial $25 million investment will focus on the manufacture of commercial and residential lithium-ion battery ride-on mowers. This brilliant advancement in technology will bring more than 150 sustainable, high-tech careers to East Tennessee by the end of 2023 with up to 400 more promising career opportunities by 2025; creating a sustainable hub of innovation and technology for generations to come. This initial phase provides an annual production capacity of 30,000 ride-on mowers, gradually increasing to 80,000 by 2025.
“It’s hard to find the right words to express just how pleased I am to have Greenworks select Morristown as its location for growing their company’s goals,” said Morristown Mayor Gary Chesney. “Greenworks’ history of meeting today’s consumer needs while exploring how new equipment will meet trends of the future is a particularly unique fit for Morristown’s industrial base. I’m proud to say, ‘Welcome Greenworks.’”
The state-of-the-art facility currently houses:
Two leading-edge automated guided vehicles (AGV) based assembly lines
A fully robotic vehicle chassis welding center with five fully robotic welding stations
High-precision tube and sheet metal laser cutting, stamping and CNC tube-bending equipment
A shot-blasting metal preparation center and powder-coating line
A state-of-the-art final inspection station including a light tunnel for visual inspection
An exterior bumper and track test facility
Planned expansions for late 2023 and early 2024, include:
Installation of an e-coating workshop and an injection molding center
Automatic assembly lines for large commercial-grade battery modules for ride-on mowers and battery packs for commercial handheld and walk-behind product lines
Manufacturing of commercial walk-behind mowers
A parts and service warehouse
The Morristown facility is also home to the North American Center for Advanced Vehicle Engineering within the Greenworks corporate group, with over a dozen mechanical, electrical, and testing engineers calling Morristown home by the end of 2023. The U.S. engineering team collaborates with Greenworks’ main R&D campus in Changzhou, China, and its Autonomous and Robotics R&D Center in Jönköping, Sweden.
“It is always a pleasure to welcome an expanding new industry to our community, and Greenworks is no exception. We are fortunate to have a manufacturer replace a major company that provided jobs for our citizens for the last 50-plus years in the East Tennessee Valley Industrial District,” said Industrial Development Board Chairman R. Jack Fishman. “Greenworks technology not only brings another major diversification of industrial skills but also a production of products that will help our city and improve climate changes. The jobs they bring to the Lakeway Area are significant, and the dollars they will also bring to our tax base is important in continuing to make Morristown and Hamblen County a great place to live and make a living.”
This world-class facility is the embarkation of a groundbreaking journey for the city of Morristown. With a mission to facilitate the world’s transition to sustainable energy through its innovative products for people’s daily lives, a Life. Powered. By Greenworks™. is a great start.
“TVA and Morristown Utilities congratulate Greenworks on its decision to establish operations in Morristown,” said TVA Senior Vice President of Economic Development John Bradley. “Helping to attract jobs and investment to the region is fundamental to TVA’s mission of service. We are proud to partner with the Morristown Area Chamber of Commerce to help further that mission and celebrate this announcement together.”
The Greenworks Commercial Center of Excellence is part of a 7,000+ global workforce, with 10 global manufacturing sites, four global R&D centers with more than 750 engineers, 130 finished goods production lines and a 1.5-million-unit manufacturing output per month.
Greenworks currently produces more than 20,000 batteries, 30,000 motors and 100,000 PCBAs per day using the most advanced manufacturing equipment. With more than 80% vertical integration, one of the highest in the industry, Greenworks brings innovative and industry-leading designs to market with short development times and cost-effective manufacturing.
The Greenworks Commercial Center of Excellence is home to the most technologically advanced commercial zero-turn mower in the industry: OptimusZ™. This compelling machine is the epitome of productivity, mowing more than 21 acres on a single charge. With up to eight hours of run time, the OptimusZ™ is the fastest, most powerful, and most capable commercial ride-on mower in its class, with a top cut speed of 16 MPH while maintaining a 19K constant blade tip speed cutting through any grass conditions.
With a lower total cost of ownership compared to conventional gas-powered zero-turn mowers, made possible through zero fuel cost and a 2,000-hour guaranteed maintenance-free design, it can save landscapers more than $13,200 over the first three years. A complete range of more than eight OptimusZ™ models was launched during the Equip Expo show in Louisville, KY, in October 2022.
By late 2023, Greenworks Commercial is set to begin manufacturing its fully autonomous, self-driving commercial ride-on mower, OptimusAI™, in Morristown. This innovative ride-on mower, based on the OptimusZ™ platform design, features sophisticated GPS-RTK navigation and vision-based live-object avoidance technology, allowing both self-driving and manned-driving modes. In its self-driving mode, the system operates with an accuracy of one inch.
Greenworks Commercial recently launched a revolutionary mobile charging trailer, OptimusMC™, set to transform the entire landscaping industry while clearing the way for rapid electrification and making highly polluting fossil fuel outdoor power equipment a relic of the past. The 20-foot OptimusMC™ trailer features a 26kWh built-in lithium-ion battery that keeps everything in the trailer charged all day. Greenworks Commercial ride-on mowers and batteries automatically charge while in the trailer overnight and in transit.
The trailer features three EV-style 6kW chargers capable of charging three Greenworks ride-on mowers, inside or outside, alongside 18 fully temperature-controlled battery ports, capable of charging handheld batteries at up to 10A each, along with four additional 20A 110V AC outlets for additional power needs. The entire trailer can be charged overnight through a single Level II EV charger or its roof-mounted 3kW solar panels. The trailer comes complete with sophisticated integrated tool storage solutions, 4G/GPS theft protection, trailer vitals monitoring system and IoT connectivity, putting the commercial landscaper fully in command.
Intelligent Power™ is embedded in nearly every Greenworks product. By combining the best-in-class battery and brushless motor technology; managed by intelligent control systems as well as onboard, cloud-based IoT interfaces; Greenworks can create superior power, extended run times and smarter equipment than any other battery-powered or gas-powered product in the industry while providing a better overall user and service experience, all with ZERO emissions. Intelligent Power™ provides Greenworks’ customers with an overall advantage in the landscaping industry. Greenworks refers to this as Productivity. Powered. By Greenworks Commercial™.
About Greenworks Commercial
Charging the industry since 2002 by focusing exclusively on producing products powered by lithium-ion battery technology, Greenworks has continues to push the boundaries of batteries for the greater good. Manufacturing sustainable products such as the OptimusZ™ product line and the mobile charging trailer, OptimusMC™; these lean, green, eco-friendly machines not only aid the environment but create profitability for end users creating a better LIFE. POWERED. BY GREENWORKS™.
For more information, visit https://commercial.greenworkstools.com/
Firm hired to aid Oak Ridge National Laboratory director search
UT-Battelle has retained executive search firm Russell Reynolds Associates to assist in the search for the next director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory. ORNL is a Department of Energy laboratory with a broad research portfolio that includes materials science, energy technologies, supercomputing, neutron and nuclear science, and isotope production.The laboratory is home to Frontier, the top supercomputer on the world TOP500 list, as well as specialized facilities that draw researchers from throughout academia, industry and government, including the Spallation Neutron Source, High Flux Isotope Reactor and Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences.“We are committed to identifying a leader who will continue ORNL's 80-year legacy of enabling world-leading experts to leverage uniquely powerful tools for breakthroughs that serve national priorities in fundamental science, energy technology, and national security,” said Randy Boyd, president of the University of Tennessee System and co-chairman of the UT-Battelle Board of Governors.Russell Reynolds is a nationally known firm with experience in national laboratory, academic and industry sector searches for executive leadership positions. The firm will assist UT-Battelle in identifying a successor to Thomas Zacharia, who retired at the end of 2022 after a 35-year career at ORNL, including five years as director.“We are excited to partner with Russell Reynolds as we identify the next director of ORNL to help guide us to an exciting future in support of the nation,” said Lou Von Thaer, CEO of Battelle and co-chairman of the UT-Battelle Board of Governors. UT-Battelle welcomes input on the search and potential candidates at ornl.gov/lab-director-search.As the search continues, UT-Battelle has appointed Jeff Smith as interim ORNL director. Smith was ORNL’s chief operating officer when UT-Battelle began managing ORNL for DOE in 2000, and he served in the position until his retirement in April 2021.
Ziff Real Estate Partners acquires self-storage facility in Oak Ridge
OAK RIDGE, TN – Ziff Real Estate Partners (“ZRP”) has acquired a 13,050 sf self-storage facility on 4.55 acres of land at 104 Melton Lake Drive in Oak Ridge, TN. The existing self-storage facility has 111 non-climate-controlled units and approximately 45 parking spaces. Upon expansion, the facility will have 37,850 sf of self-storage encompassing an additional 256 climate-controlled units with 35 additional parking spaces. The expansion is expected to begin the first quarter of this year and will take 15 months to complete. This will be the second self-storage facility in Tennessee that StoreEase will manage for ZRP.
Founded in 1991, ZRP has acquired or developed over 7.9 million square feet of commercial real estate and has completed more than 150 acquisitions and dispositions totaling over $990,000,000.
JTV announces expanded livestream shopping series
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Jan. 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- JTV®, the national jewelry retailer and broadcast network, today announced the launch of its expanded livestream shopping series. JTV’s livestream capabilities will seamlessly enable jewelry aficionados and shoppers alike to engage with experts, educators, celebrity partners and more, while shopping a curated and topical assortment of JTV’s wide product collections.
Since 1993, JTV has served as a premier shopping destination for jewelry, gemstones and accessories. Known for its original shopping broadcasts led by today’s leading jewelry experts and hosts, JTV is home to a variety of fan-favorite series and has cemented itself as a leader within the home shopping space. With its new livestream features, JTV will expand upon its interactive resources while providing an elevated, fun, and memorable shopping experience for consumers in 2023 and beyond.
“Shopping for jewelry is a very personal experience, so we’re excited to offer varied ways for consumers to browse products and tune into discussions surrounding their favorite brands and jewelry topics,” said Donna Burns, Executive Vice President of Broadcast Sales, JTV. “JTV’s livestream series will help our community stay well-connected as they explore the dazzling world of jewelry and gemstones through live, engaging experiences.”
JTV’s livestream segments will include exciting pre- and post-show discussions of JTV’s most popular broadcast segments such as Gem Discoveries, Personalized Style, Early Access and more. JTV will also offer new creator-focused livestreams with Jewel School hosts Susan Thomas and Katy Smith. JTV experts will also feature a range of other topics, from educational to fashion and styling to top jewelry picks of the week. With these entertaining and informative livestream series, consumers will enjoy real-time access to JTV’s jewelry and gemstone experts as they showcase today’s leading trends.
For more information about JTV’s livestream series, please visit jtv.com/show/jtv-extra and facebook.com/JTVExtra. For more information about JTV, please visit JTV.com and follow @JTV on Instagram, @jtv on Facebook, @jewelrytv on Pinterest and @jewelry on Twitter.
About JTV
JTV (Jewelry Television®) is a leading retailer of jewelry and gemstones in the United States. With a proven 29-year history, JTV leverages an omni-digital strategy designed to elevate the customer experience through holistic, digitally-driven touch points, including live TV programming, 24 hours a day, seven days a week to 70 million U.S. and Canadian households, an industry leading mobile optimized e-commerce platform, and a robust and engaging social media presence. As part of its commitment to customer satisfaction and the development and distribution of educational content, the company employs numerous Graduate Gemologists and Accredited Jewelry Professionals. JTV.com is one of the largest jewelry e-commerce websites in the country according to Internet Retailer's Top 500 list for 2021. For more information, visit JTV.com and JTV's social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, Pinterest and LinkedIn.
Dollywood announces hiring events for 2023 season
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (Wednesday, January 11, 2023) — Dollywood Parks & Resorts is gearing up for an exciting 2023 season, one which includes the opening of a new roller coaster—Big Bear Mountain—as well as a new resort, by hosting a number of hiring events over the coming weeks. Exciting perks—including 100% free tuition, competitive wages, free lunch, and more—add to the reasons why The Dollywood Company is the perfect fit for anyone regardless of their career aspirations.
From part-time positions for students to full-time careers with ample chances for advancement and everything in between, working at Dollywood may very well become a lifetime home for those looking for something that provides a little bit more than the “regular” job. Positions are available at each of the company’s properties, with most event attendees being hired on the spot with a position for the 2023 season at either Dollywood, Dollywood’s Splash Country, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa. Later this year, positions will become available at the new Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.
Available positions will be posted at Dollywoodjobs.com on January 16. The first major hiring event of 2023 takes place Saturday, Jan. 28 at Sevier County High School from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Additional hiring events take place at Jefferson County High School (Saturday, Feb. 4), Sevierville Civic Center (Saturday, Feb. 18) and Seymour Heights Christian Church (Saturday, Feb. 25). All hiring events take place from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Applicants are encouraged to attend the earliest hiring event possible for the largest selection of available opportunities.
Positions are available for the entire length of the 2023 operating season, as well as shorter peak season openings, which are perfect for applicants looking for a fun summer position or for those looking to earn a little extra money during the Christmas holidays. Applicants must be 14 years of age or older.
Positions are available on several teams including Dollywood’s award-winning culinary and merchandise teams, as well as park operations positions including ticketing, transportation, house and grounds, and more. Among the openings at Dollywood’s Splash Country are house and grounds, lifeguards and culinary services positions. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa also has a number of openings available including food and beverage, front desk, bell/valet, and housekeeping positions.
Interested applicants may view opportunities, as well as job descriptions and basic requirements for each position, at dollywoodjobs.com. Applicants can signify their interest in a position by following the online instructions to complete the application process. Technical support will be available at the hiring events to assist applicants.
Dollywood Parks & Resorts plans to host a number of hiring events throughout the season to give potential employees an opportunity to attend at the time that best suits their individual needs. Additionally, new job opportunities are posted throughout the year at dollywoodjobs.com.
Dollywood Parks & Resorts employees receive a variety of unique benefits including 100% free tuition through Herschend’s GROW U. program, access to the Dollywood Family Healthcare Center, along with complimentary Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country admission for family and friends. Hosts are provided free meals for every working shift, and also take part in Dollywood’s Park Perks program which provides free or reduced admission to a large number of regional attractions, theaters and experiences. A comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision, is available for qualified full-time employees. Dollywood also pays a portion of childcare costs for hosts whose children are cared for at a WeeCare-affiliated provider. Numerous development opportunities also are available to help employees develop leadership skills, including an apprenticeship program in conjunction with Walters State Community College.
In 2022, Forbes named The Dollywood Company as one of the best employers in the country, according to a ranking on their website. Additionally, the company received a national Top Workplaces award from USA Today/Gannett.
For more information about positions, please visit dollywoodjobs.com.
PYA announces applications are open for the third annual Ballard Innovation Award
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 12, 2023) -- PYA is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2023 Ballard Innovation Award.
The annual award, established in 2021, allows emerging companies to compete for a $50,000 investment of capital and in-kind services to support their innovative ideas. The award is the largest combination of cash and in-kind services available to East Tennessee start-ups.
“PYA is proud to be based in East Tennessee, and we are committed to highlight and help regional start-ups with supportive strategies that further their entrepreneurial efforts,” said Marty Brown, President and CEO of PYA. “The Ballard Innovation Award allows us to connect with innovators on both professional and personal levels to help them grow and thrive in our community.”
PYA’s commitment to the region’s entrepreneurs is evident through its work with high-potential and innovative businesses like those in the Innovation Crossroads program operated by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Spark Innovation Center at the University of Tennessee Research Park.
Interested entrepreneurs should visit https://pyapc.com/ballard for application details. Applicants are encouraged to submit links to videos, articles, multimedia presentations, or other supporting documentation.
New this year, the top finalists for the Ballard Innovation Award will have the opportunity to pitch their companies to a panel of regional business leaders who will then select the top three prize winners.
The application deadline is February 24, 2023. Winners will be announced following the pitch competition on March 21, 2023.
Past winners of the award include PrepWizard, a family-run company that uses technology to automate the food labeling process in commercial kitchens, and 490 BioTech, which develops bioluminescent technologies that enable new drugs to move more quickly through the pharmaceutical testing process.
The award is named in honor of PYA’s Chief Alliance Officer, Tom Ballard, who has spent decades creating relationships and supporting the East Tennessee region’s entrepreneurial community. He is also publisher of Teknovation.biz, which focuses on innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship.
For more information, visit PYAPC.com/Ballard.
About PYA
Serving clients in all 50 states from offices in seven cities, PYA was named one of America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms of 2022 in the Forbes annual list. PYA is ranked by INSIDE Public Accounting as one of the nation's "Top 100" Largest Accounting Firms. Accounting Today highlighted PYA as "One of the Most Successful Firms in the Country," and Modern Healthcare consistently ranks PYA among the nation's Top 20 healthcare consulting firms.
Learn more: pyapc.com
Coldwell Banker Wallace announces new partner as part of strategic future growth
Coldwell Banker Wallace (CBW) has been innovating the future of real estate since 1936, and its most recent announcement of Andrew McGranaghan as partner is the next step in the evolution of this family-owned company’s strategic journey.McGranaghan affiliated with the company in 2016 as a residential sales agent, and was named director of agent services in 2020. Now a co-owner with brothers Jim and George Wallace, and Claudia Stallings, he assumes the title of Chief Development Officer.In his new role, McGranaghan will oversee development and growth strategies for the company, with a specific focus on sales training and professional development, as well as new agent acquisition, and connecting with businesses in the community. He has already proven himself successful in these arenas, including leading efforts to produce record increases in agent recruitment by more than 40 percent.“We are always looking for ways to positively impact our agents, clients, industry, and community,” said CEO George Wallace. “A company with nearly 90 years of success in any industry must have a strong commitment to innovation and we’re excited to empower Andrew to be a decision maker, bringing his vibrant, enthusiastic leadership to our C-Suite.”“By selling more than $20 million in real estate each year, it’s easy to see that Andrew has exceptional skills helping his clients navigate one of the largest financial decisions of their lives,” said Claudia Stallings, chief operating officer. “He brings the same tireless efforts to his role as a colleague within our leadership team and mentor to our agents, building trusted relationships and freely sharing his advice, experiences, and support.”In preparation for his new role as partner, McGranaghan completed Ascend: The Executive Leadership Experience, a year-long intensive leadership training class offered by Anywhere (formerly Realogy) that equips leaders for the responsibilities and challenges of the job.“What sets Andrew apart is his unique combination of industry know-how and generous giving spirit to support the success of his fellow agents,” said CBW CFO Jim Wallace. “He holds himself to the highest standards, leading by example to earn the trust of others.”A Knoxville native with a marketing degree from the University of Tennessee, Andrew McGranaghan is deeply rooted in his community, both as a member of his church and within the various nonprofit organizations he supports, most recently spearheading the company’s St. Jude give-back program and taking an active role in efforts to support United Way as well as the 100 Realtors Who Care project. In addition to residential sales, Andrew works directly with CBW’s Property Management office which oversees 250 single family rentals in our area.A Sterling Level RPAC donor, McGranaghan is active in the local Knoxville Area Association of Realtors’ where he is currently on the Board of Directors, and has in the past served on a range of committees to include Grievance, Government Affairs at both the local and state levels, and several Presidential Advisory groups. McGranaghan was also named to the Knoxville Chamber’s Economic Development Council in 2022, where he plays an integral part in supporting strategy for business growth in East Tennessee.“This is such a monumental time for East Tennessee as we are experiencing record growth in a wide range of sectors, as well as with companies and individuals relocating to our area,” said McGranaghan. “I’m excited to take on this new role, and look forward to helping lead our talented teams of professionals into the future.”This announcement is the latest in a series of exciting developments for the company. Last year, 140 local real estate professionals affiliated with CBW, and collectively, the franchise sold $1.36 Billion worth of properties in east Tennessee.About Coldwell Banker WallaceWith six area offices and nearly 500 sales associates, Coldwell Banker Wallace is a leading residential real estate company in East Tennessee. Selling approximately 4,000 properties each year, the franchise owes a great deal of its success to the individuals who laid its foundation: Charles A. Wallace and his father, James A. Wallace, Sr. Since 1936, three generations of the Wallace family have provided buyers and sellers in the region — including Knox, Anderson, Blount, Loudon, Roane and Sevier counties — with a real estate experience that remains unmatched.The company sets itself apart with a focus on training and agent development, plus doing business with integrity. A one-stop shop for clients, CBW is an authority on mortgage and financing, with CMG Financial mortgage loan specialists available in every office. Clients can enjoy convenient closing services through Melrose Title, a locally owned, attorney-driven title company. Other ancillary partners include 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty and Dogwood Insurance. In addition to our six residential offices, we also offer Coldwell Banker commercial division, a relocation department, as well as property management and rentals.
KUB’s Project Help spreads warmth during cold winter months
Knoxville, TN – During the cold winter months, many families struggle with the cost of heating their homes. Through Project Help, community donations provide emergency heating assistance to those in need due to job loss, illness, injury, or disability, as well as seniors struggling with the rising cost of living.
“Project Help depends solely on community and individual contributions,” said Tiffany Martin, KUB Vice President and Chief Customer Officer. “Thanks to generous donors, last year Project Help was able to help over 200 families stay safe and warm through the winter.”
The 2023 Project Help campaign kicks off Wednesday, Jan. 4, and runs through Feb. 7. Partnering with Food City, WVLT-TV, WIVK, the Knoxville News Sentinel and Home Federal Bank, there are multiple easy ways to donate to Project Help:
Purchase a donation coupon when shopping at Food City
Make a donation at any Knoxville area Home Federal Bank Drive-thru
Donate to Project Help online at www.kub.org/projecthelp
Send a check to: Project Help, P.O. Box 59017, Knoxville, TN 37950
“During the cold winter months, many of our friends and neighbors desperately need assistance,” said Kevin Stafford, Food City Vice President of Marketing. “Project Help is one way you can help those in need right here in our own region.”
Project Help is administered by the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee (CAC). KUB collects donations, and 100 percent of the funds go to CAC. The money goes directly toward the purchase of electricity, natural gas, propane, heating oil, wood, or coal for those in need. Project Help of East Tennessee is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations are tax deductible.
Radiological response training facility celebrates opening in Oak Ridge
Preventing radiological material from falling into the wrong hands or being used for nefarious purposes is a law enforcement concern. Government nuclear facilities are well protected for that very reason. Many hospitals, universities, and laboratories, however, also have radiological material that could be appealing to those wishing to do harm, and local law enforcement agencies may not always be prepared to respond to theft of these materials or to an emergency involving them.
With the grand opening of Tennessee’s Emergency Response Training Facility (ERTF) Monday, law enforcement personnel from across the state, nation, and globe now have access to a state-of-the-art location in which to train for various situations that could involve radiological material. At ERTF, first responders can learn from Y-12 National Security Complex trainers who are experts in radioactive sources.
The $15-million, 40,000-square-foot ERTF was funded by the State of Tennessee and developed by Roane County, led by the Roane Alliance. ERTF has teaching-staff offices, augmented and virtual reality rooms, and traditional classrooms to provide immersive first-responder training.
Community, economic benefits
ERTF is the first facility to begin operations at the Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center (ORETTC), the new nuclear security and training campus funded by federal and state dollars. The second facility will be the federally funded Simulated Nuclear and Radiological Activities Facility (SNRAF). When complete, SNRAF will serve as a technology demonstration space and train those responsible for safeguarding nuclear and radioactive material in the latest nuclear security, detection, and nonproliferation technologies.
“These facilities will not only provide a much-needed regional training venue, but also significant benefits to the local economy,” said Roane County Executive Wade Creswell.
Consolidated Nuclear Security (CNS) manages and operates Y-12. CNS President and CEO Rich Tighe noted that the trainees coming to ORETTC’s facilities will result in tax dollars for Tennessee and local governments. “Those dollars will fund education, infrastructure improvements, and other needs,” he said.
Setting the bar
The National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) Office of Global Material Security, one of the federal programs set to use the facility, will provide state-of-the-art training for law enforcement and other responders to prevent the theft of high-risk radioactive material. This training will improve the security of our homeland and build an international network of radiological and nuclear security practitioners.
“Before this facility, we had inadequate training space to prepare our first responders for an increasingly complex environment,” said Tighe. “At the same time, demand has grown for the unique training available at Y-12.”
“The Emergency Response Training Facility meets those needs, and will help set the bar for outstanding emergency response and the protection of infrastructure during complex conditions,” Tighe said.
Bailey rebranding reflects company’s commitment to complete material handling and intralogistics solutions
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Jan. 10, 2023 — Bailey, formerly known as The Bailey Company, announces a rebranding that reflects the company’s evolution and its commitment to providing One Material Handling Solution that makes intralogistics easy for its customers.
Bailey helps businesses optimize warehouse operation with equipment and intralogistics solutions, including forklifts and other industrial vehicles, fleet management, automated solutions, racking, telematics, and warehouse optimization services.
“For more than 70 years, Bailey has delivered premium equipment and exceptional service to our customers,” said Justin Bailey, vice president of sales and marketing at Bailey. “As operations and supply chains continually grow more complex, however, our customers’ needs also evolve. The tight labor market, increasing use of data and analytics, expensive industrial real estate, and the growing importance of sustainability are completely changing what our customers need from a partner. Our new brand reflects Bailey’s commitment to helping our customers thrive in this new world.”
Intralogistics is the management of operations (“logistics”) within (“intra”) a warehouse. In response to the explosion of third-party fulfillment, manufacturing and distribution in Tennessee, Bailey is investing heavily in capabilities designed to guide its customers through the evolving supply chain landscape. Bailey’s essential solutions help customers effectively manage labor and supply shortages, transportation disruptions, rising materials costs, climate impact, and other economic challenges.
As the leading provider of electric forklifts and lithium-ion energy motive power technology, Bailey offers clients sustainable solutions that are more efficient, require less maintenance and have lower overall cost of ownership.
“Bailey has always focused on innovative products and strategies to help customers, and we have expanded through the years to continue meeting their needs,” said Ryan Bailey, vice president of operations and finance at Bailey. “After more than 70 years at the cutting edge of our industry, we have the experience and expertise to deliver something unique. We want our brand to fully embody the end-to-end service and One Material Handling Solution we provide, and we’ve increased our staff by about 30 people in the last year in order to deliver that.”
Bailey was founded in 1949 and now operates 12 locations throughout Tennessee, Georgia, and Kentucky. A third-generation family-owned business and the second-largest woman-owned business in Tennessee, Bailey is guided by a customer-focused, team-oriented approach that values diversity, innovation and environmental stewardship. In 2020, Bailey became the first TRUE-certified zero waste company in Tennessee.
For more information about Bailey, visit https://baileycompany.com/.
About Bailey
Since our founding in 1949, Bailey has been dedicated to providing end-to-end material handling solutions that keep our customers running efficiently. At our 12 locations throughout Tennessee, north Georgia, and southeastern Kentucky, we offer forklifts and other equipment from leading brands, including Crown Lift Trucks, Cat Lift Trucks, Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, Jungheinrich, Kalmar, and Hoist, as well as rentals and 24/7 parts and service. With 12 locations, more than 200 certified technicians, and a four-hour response-time guarantee, we guarantee you will get the support you need when you need it. Our intralogistics solutions go beyond forklifts, delivering you the warehouse design, racking, automation, and storage solutions you need in one material handling solution. We are proud to be family-owned and operated, certified woman-owned, and the first TRUE Zero Waste forklift dealership in the nation. For more information, visit https://baileycompany.com/.
Centriworks receives Ricoh’s service excellence award
Knoxville, TN – Ricoh honored Centriworks, the largest and most experienced business technology company in East Tennessee, as a 2023 “Circle of Excellence Certified Dealership,” one of only 28 companies to have earned the designation for ten consecutive years. Fewer than 20% of Ricoh Family Group Dealers earned the “Circle of Excellence” award, and Centriworks is the only Tennessee company recognized. To be considered for the program, a company must demonstrate a commitment to customer service and technical expertise following Ricoh’s strict guidelines.
“This award confirms Centriworks’ commitment to excellence, which results in providing our clients the best experience possible,” says J. Mark DeNicola, Centriworks’ chief financial officer and chief strategy officer.
Adjudicated categories include Training, Service Led Initiatives, Industry Certifications, Service Organization Structure, Customer Satisfaction Measurement Process, Staff Productivity & Efficiency Measures, Effective Utilization of Resources, and Business Plan Management & Process Improvement. The Ricoh Technical Support Manager, Region Managers, and the Director of Dealer Service Support carefully reviewed office equipment dealers from around the country to select recipients of the Ricoh Service Excellence Award.
About Centriworks
Centriworks is East Tennessee’s largest business technology company offering Managed IT Services, Cybersecurity, IT Consulting & Software, VOIP Phones, and Hardware to enable clients to focus on their core business. In its 59th year, the company has more than 60 employees at Knoxville and Johnson City offices. For Centriworks’ complete range of products and services, visit www.centriworks.com.
Kroger Farmers Market powered by Market Wagon introduces new way to shop local in Knoxville
KNOXVILLE, January 4, 2023 – Kroger Nashville Division, today launched an expansion of its digital farmers market into Knoxville, Tennessee, in collaboration with Market Wagon.
Developed as an e-commerce marketplace for local farmers and businesses, the service is a digital platform that offers customers a wide range of fresh products from the Knoxville area.
The delivery service offers a unique assortment of more than 950 products from more than 60 vendors – including local farmers, bakeries and food artisans.
"The continued expansion of Kroger’s digital farmers market pilot is a result of our rapidly growing e-commerce business," said Sonya Hostetler, Kroger Nashville Division President.
"This collaboration enables Kroger to bring fresh food directly to customers who are eager to support homegrown businesses – whether shopping with them in person or online. We are excited this digital shopping experience is coming to Knoxville.”
The launch in the Greater Knoxville Metro Area represents an expansion of a collaboration between Kroger and Market Wagon, a digital farmers market bringing local, fresh products to customers’ doorsteps.
In June 2022, the companies announced a pilot program in Atlanta, Georgia, to build on Kroger’s rapidly growing seamless ecosystem, creating innovative, modern and cost-effective solutions by offering personalized solutions for customers while also supporting local businesses.
“Kroger Farmers Market powered by Market Wagon is going to have a huge impact for the farmers and food producers we already serve,” said Nick Carter, Market Wagon’s Co-Founder and CEO.
“It’s a big victory for local food to work with Kroger’s Nashville Division. Together, we can help feed an appetite for locally produced food which has already reached $3 billion nationwide.”
About Kroger
The Kroger Nashville Division includes 90 stores in Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southern Kentucky. Through its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste efforts, Kroger is committed to ending hunger in our communities and eliminating waste in the company by 2025. Last year the company donated $213 million to hunger relief organizations across the country.
About Market Wagon
Market Wagon transforms the farm-to-table concept into a farm-to-front-door reality. Its mission is to enable food producers to thrive in their local markets by operating as an online farmers market.
Market Wagon partners with more than 2,500 local farmers and artisans to take their produce and products the very last mile to the doorstep of 60,000+ local customers. Market Wagon was started in 2016 by farmer and tech entrepreneur Nick Carter and logistics expert Dan Brunner. Inc. Magazine recently ranked Market Wagon as the 450th fastest growing private company in America on its annual Inc. 5000 list. Market Wagon has been profiled by outlets like USA Today and Forbes. It is now available in more than 30 markets across Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia and Wisconsin.For more information, visit marketwagon.com, or you can follow the company’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube.
Todd Richesin Interiors moving to new location on Old Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TENN., January 2, 2023 – Todd Richesin Interiors is relocating its interior design studio down the street from 4514 Kingston Pike to 4628 Old Kingston Pike, Suite 101 as Richesin and long-time business partner, Bobby Brown, reposition the business for the future.
The duo will be scaling back the Bobby Todd retail operation to provide a higher level of service for interior design clients. Bobby and Todd will continue offering the beautiful selection of upholstery, furniture, antiques, accessories and original artwork that anyone can purchase, while pivoting the business to be largely focused on interior design. The new space is sized perfectly for the design studio featuring a fresh look in a chic setting.
Todd Richesin Interiors was founded more than 25 years ago and has been featured in House Beautiful, Traditional Home, Southern Living and numerous local and regional publications. Richesin was also named “Best Interior Designer in Knoxville” for three years in a poll by Cityview Magazine.
“Our style has always been about combining unique pieces that deliver a collected interior from concept to completion,” said Richesin. “Those same concepts will be at the forefront of this move. Focusing on the design studio will allow us to deliver the attention to detail, newly discovered products, and emerging trends that our clients have come to expect from us at an even higher level.”
“We are committed to Knoxville,” noted Bobby Brown. “We have built our lives here and this is where we want to continue working, building relationships and creating beautiful new spaces that inspire. We can’t wait to unveil our new space in early 2023.”
About Todd Richesin Interiors
Founded in 1997, Todd Richesin Interiors has been serving the Knoxville community with fine design for 25 years. Owner, Todd Richesin, believes that rooms should be collected, not decorated. Classically inspired rooms, pretty palettes, and comfortable spaces are trademarks of his style. His design philosophy encompasses a chic glamour that always feels comfortable. Authentic materials, both old and new, blend seamlessly in his spaces. From a casual lakeside farmhouse to an elegant city home, Todd Richesin Interiors are relaxed and welcoming.
About Bobby Todd
Owners Bobby Brown and Todd Richesin established BOBBY TODD ANTIQUES, LLC. in 1999 as an extension of the way they live in their own home. After entertaining friends in their unique loft style home in Knoxville's Old City, they were encouraged to make their lifestyle collections available to everyone by opening what became BOBBY TODD, originally located in Sweetwater, TN. Their signature style seamlessly mixes new with old and encompasses furniture pieces and accessories and intangibles, such as scent and sound.
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: United Way of Greater Knoxville launches program dedicated to helping low-income families
