Shopper Blog: Marble Springs holiday events: Yuletide Tavern, fun with marzipan

SOUTH KNOXVILLE

Marble Springs holiday events: Yuletide Tavern, fun with marzipan

Zach Thomas, Shopper News

Marble Springs State Historic Site is gearing up to host more events but with a double dose of Christmas, offering the community a unique blend of historical immersion for holiday festivities.

The Tennessee Historical Commission state-owned historic site will kick off the festivities with a Marzipan Workshop tailored for children age 7 and older on Dec. 2. Then the following weekend, on Dec. 9, it will host "John Sevier's Yuletide Tavern."

Marzipan Workshop for kids

On Dec. 2, Marble Springs invites young participants to a Marzipan Workshop from 1-3 p.m. Geared toward children age 7 and older, the workshop offers a hands-on exploration of marzipan and the history of its use throughout the holidays.

Children will have the chance to mold marzipan into unique designs, combining traditional molds with their imaginative flair. The workshop adds an educational twist, allowing participants to compare historic food preparation tools with their modern counterparts. This event is not suitable for those with nut allergies.

John Sevier's Yuletide Tavern – An 18th century Christmas experience

On Dec. 9, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Marble Springs will transport visitors back in time with "John Sevier's Yuletide Tavern." The event will allow participants to craft traditional Christmas and winter decorations, reminiscent of the 18th century. From ornaments to garlands, attendees can either make decorations to leave up at the the tavern or take their handmade creations home.

The event will feature hot cocoa, tea, and other refreshments but most notably will have a reenactor playing the first governor of Tennessee, John Sevier, who will share holiday season stories and offer insights into 18th century Christmas customs and traditions.

Tickets, reservations

For "John Sevier's Yuletide Tavern," no advance tickets are required. The event is open to all and included with regular admission to Marble Springs State Historic Site.

For the Marzipan Workshop, tickets are priced at $10 for nonmembers and $8 for museum members. Because of limited spots, early reservations are recommended and can be made at Marzipan Workshop (zeffy.com).

As the holiday season approaches, Marble Springs State Historic Site invites families, friends, and history enthusiasts to join in the festivities. For more information, ticket reservations, and media assets, contact Marble Springs State Historic Site at 965-573-5508 or online at https://www.marblesprings.net/.

Experience a season of historical exploration, creative crafting, and festive delight at Marble Springs State Historic Site this December.

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NORTH KNOXVILLE

Gresham Middle honors veterans and their sacrifices for democracy

Carol Z. Shane, Shopper News

On the morning of Friday, Nov. 10, the Gresham Middle School auditorium buzzed with activity when students, staff and supporters gathered for the school’s annual Veterans Day ceremony. Attendees were greeted enthusiastically at the door by students handing out programs; inside, other students eagerly helped people to their seats.

Onstage at the grand piano was Liam McDonald, a talented GMS student who also sings in the Choral Ensemble. He played a selection of patriotic tunes and a beautiful rendition of the classical favorite “Clair de Lune” while the audience got settled.

Liam’s proud parents, Robert and Jessica, were nearby. “He loves a good audience,” said his dad. The young musician has studied for 2½ years with teacher Beth Smith, who runs her own voice and piano studio, Beth Smith Creative.

Students Cameron Chance, Colten Dishner, Mahki Nolan-Tatum, Adelaide Davis and Cindy Guzman Del-Cid capably led the proceedings from the stage. The GMS choir under the direction of Michele Reeves gave stunning renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “United We Stand,” accompanied by pianist Laura White.

Nolan-Tatum gave a reading of the beloved poem “In Flanders Fields,” written in 1915 by Canadian poet John McCrae. Before the ceremony got underway, the young man remarked, “Veterans Day means a day for all veterans to get noticed and to see how America has changed over the years.” Nolan-Tatum proudly added that his mother used to work for the military.

GMS counselor Stephanie McDaniel, a self-described “military brat,” spoke movingly of her veteran father and her love for him, “my favorite person in the world.” Then 1st Lt. Isidro Rodriguez, who teaches English language learners at GMS, spoke of his admiration for veterans.

“Today, we stand united in honoring your selfnessness, your resilience and your sacrifices. You have faced challenges that most of us can only imagine, and you’ve done so with unwavering resolve. Your commitment to duty, honor and country is an example for us all,” Rodriguez said.

“One remarkable aspect of our veterans is the incredible diversity they represent,” he continued. “Our veterans come from all walks of life, backgrounds and various corners of our great nation. The individuals who make up our military encompass a rich mosaic of races, religions and political beliefs. Despite our differences, a common love for our country unites us. The diversity of our veterans is a testament to how amazing our nation is.”

The event culminated with the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces − Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard − being called out one by one, as the veterans of each branch in turn stood up to tremendous applause.

The program was  organized by general music teacher Bob Adamcik, who also ran the slide show, and was a true collaborative effort.

Americans can look to future generations like these exemplary students, their teachers and − most of all − our veterans, for inspiration and true patriotism.

“As we go about our lives, let us always remember the values that our veterans have fought for: freedom, democracy and the pursuit of happiness,” Rodriguez said. “Let us strive to be worthy of their sacrifices by cherishing and upholding the ideals for which they have so valiantly served.

“Again, it is with extreme gratitude and sincerity that we say ‘thank you for your service.’”

POWELL

Medal of Honor recipient, 'the real Forrest Gump,' will speak in Powell Dec. 6-7

Al Lesar, Shopper News

Every night as he goes to sleep, Sammy Lee Davis relives the pain and the fear.

And… he sees the eyes.

“I see the eyes of the enemy and my brothers,” the 77-year-old said. “They were all kids, just like we were. It still touches my heart.”

It was Nov. 18, 1967, west of Cai Lay in the Republic of Vietnam, when Davis’ platoon was significantly outnumbered by Viet Cong. Sgt. Davis manned a howitzer for a good part of the two-hour battle. He was wounded. Injured by the recoil of the howitzer.

But he didn’t stop.

Three buddies were hurt on the other side of the river. Davis had to get them.

“I couldn’t leave them across the river,” he said. “They’d do it for me.”

Despite what turned out to be a broken back and broken ribs, along with the bullet wounds, Davis floated an air mattress across the river and rescued the three soldiers.

That heroism earned Davis the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Questions vary

Davis will make two appearances in Powell Dec. 6-7, to honor the memory of the Pearl Harbor attack; two of about 200 talks he gives each year. He will talk with students at Powell High School Dec. 6. The Knoxville Disabled American Veterans Chapter 24, in conjunction with the Veteran Appreciation Program, will have Davis speak at the Expo Center at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 7.

“I open it up to questions and talk about what people want to know about,” said Davis. “I love dealing with school kids. Some of the questions are great: ‘Where do you go to the bathroom in the jungle?’ That sort of thing.

“It varies with the veterans. They might want to know what kind of pigs, goats and cows we raised on the farm growing up.”

Davis, who lives in southern Indiana, is on a mission for America. He said he’s not a Democrat or Republican, he’s an American.

“I want Americans to stand up and believe what’s in their heart,” Davis said. “If we all stand up, we will get accomplished what’s right. That’s what it’s all about.”

Brush with fame

During most of his appearances, Davis’ legend precedes him.

He is known as “The Real Forrest Gump.”

When Tom Hanks made the widely acclaimed movie, Hanks’ head was super-imposed on Davis’ body during the medal presentation ceremony with President Lyndon Johnson.

“(Movie executives) called me and told me they were going to do something, but they didn’t say what,” Davis said. “They didn’t offer to pay me, either.”

Davis enjoyed his brush with fame. He has parlayed that into a friendship with Hanks. He spent a couple hours having lunch with Hanks recently at a gathering of Medal of Honor winners in New Orleans. He presented Hanks with the Bob Hope Award for Entertainment.

Rubbing elbows with the stars and being a guest of honor is out of Davis’ wheelhouse.

He and his wife, Dixie, are also board members on the Gary Sinise Foundation. Sinise is the actor who portrayed Lieutenant Dan in "Forrest Gump."

“I like to fish,” he said. “Every opportunity I get, I’ll be on a bucket on the creek bank.

“I just did my job, just like everyone else. I wasn’t about to give up.”

POWELL

Bring a new toy and get in free at Powell car-truck show

Al Lesar, Shopper News

When 600 or so of Shawn East’s closest friends get together, they’ve got one thing on their minds: Cars … well, maybe trucks, too.

East, who grew up in Rockwood and lives in East Knoxville, belongs to the Maxed Diesel club from Nashville.

“When we get together, it’s like a family reunion times 10,” East said. “We just have to make sure there’s room for all of us.”

East is one of the organizers of an extended “family” event Saturday, Dec. 9 in Powell. The Maxxed for Miracles Toy Donation Drive-In will be 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Powell Auction & Realty (6729 Pleasant Ridge Road).

It’s a low-key event that will cost a $10 unwrapped new toy to get in as a participant in the show or as a spectator. All the toys will be donated to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.

“I’ve seen a few (toy drive car shows) like this, but not a lot,” said East. “A friend and I came up with the idea. I just like to be able to see a smile come to a kid’s face.”

Kids are big winners

East said Powell Auction and Realty is the perfect place for the show that, as he said, could attract “anywhere from one to 200” entrants. However, he said he’d be happy if 100 showed up.

There’s plenty of room for spectator parking, as well as indoor and outdoor opportunities for show participants. Unlike most shows, there won’t be any trophies awarded to those with cars on display.

“The big winners are going to be the kids at Children’s Hospital,” East said. “We’ve got a chance to fill two covered trucks (with toys). I can’t wait until we get that police escort with the toys and watch them get passed out to them.

“We’ll just be there for the appreciation of the cars and the knowledge that the kids are going to benefit.”

Smiles make it worthwhile

Growing up, East said, he’s always been a “car guy” thanks to his dad. He learned to drive in a 1955 Chevy Bel Air.

“I just loved the ‘muscle’ sound,” he said.

Of course, East is also a fan of trucks − big trucks. He will be entering a 2017 Ford F250 Super Duty truck.

“It’s just big and lifted,” said East, who dabbles in building − and then selling − those beasts. “I can look at a truck and see its potential. Do I lift or lower it? How can I change it? It’s a great hobby. I’ve always been mechanically inclined.”

A local truck driver by trade, East and his wife teach a Sunday school class. That’s where his interest in children was started.

“You can’t beat seeing the smiles come to the kids’ faces,” East said. “That’s where this whole thing started.”

But East doesn’t try to hide his affinity for vehicles.

“I’ve been to hundreds of car shows,” East said. “I go in looking for the big trucks and the old hot rods. I love the look of classic cars. Nothing beats it.”

FARRAGUT

Pet food stuffs cargo van at Mercedes-Benz

Nancy Anderson, Shopper News

Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville on 10131 Parkside Drive saw a steady stream of pet lovers at its inaugural Stuff the Sprinter for Homeless Pets on Nov. 11.

Community members brought much needed pet food and pet supplies to fill a Sprinter cargo van. The event runs to the end of November.

The pet food will be divided equally among Young-Williams Animal Center and the Humane Society, Tennessee Valley. Both organizations were on hand with lovable adoptable dogs who readily gave puppy kisses to everyone who came near.

Donors were rewarded with pet treats courtesy of River Dog Bakery and goodies for humans courtesy of the dealership.

Mercedes-Benz of Knoxville Marketing Manager Nate McLaughlin said the Sprinter cargo van holds about two tons of pet food. Supporting Young-Williams Animal Center and the Humane Society is a labor of love for the dealership.

“We’ve financially supported Young-Williams Animal Center and the Humane Society, Tennessee Valley for a number of years,” McLaughlin said. “This year we asked, ‘How can we grow our support and make it better?’

“We decided to fill a Sprinter … I thought let’s have a big kickoff event then spend the rest of November filling up this van.

“Not only has this been a community effort, but our employees are engaged as well. The employees got together years ago and said pet welfare is a good cause everyone wants to get behind, so this is a project near and dear to us. Not only are we supporting Young-Williams Animal Center and Humane Society, Tennessee Valley but we’re bringing the community together. That’s what this is all about.”

Chastedy Smith, PR and Marketing Director for Young-Williams Animal Center, brought Mike the puppy, who was happy to supply puppy kisses to all who wanted.

“This is an incredible event that means so much to us,” she said. “These animals need so many donations. We’re often looking to the community to help us get these donations so it’s an incredible thing that Mercedes-Benz and the Humane Society have partnered with us because the more donations we have, the more animals we can help.”

The event saw a number of visitors throughout the day, but none so touching as Jan Benton of Bearden, who lost her little companion dog in April. She brought dog food and a beautiful blanket, but most of all she came to get puppy kisses. Both Young-Williams and the Humane Society, Tennessee Valley were happy to supply all the puppy kisses she wanted from puppies Mike, Jayden, and Bailey.

Info: www.mercedesofknoxville.com

BEARDEN

Bearden girls soccer handled every challenge

John Shearer, Shopper News

Bearden girls soccer coach Ryan Radcliffe is not afraid to try to put together a tough schedule, with this past season’s slate being extremely challenging.

Despite that – and maybe because of it – his Lady Bulldogs in late October won their third straight Division I-AAA state title.

“It was by far the toughest schedule we had to battle through, but we managed to go undefeated,” he said over the phone during a recent interview recapping the season in which Bearden finished 22-0-1.

He jokingly said the schedule difficulty was due to both him and forces beyond his control. He said he wanted to play some of the other top teams in Tennessee and in other states to help Bearden get better. But on the other hand, some teams did not want to play Bearden because they'd likely lose.

However, one team he did not seek out contacted him, and it proved fruitful for both teams in helping their preparation. Radcliffe said Albertus Magnus – a defending state champion from New York – came down for a September match at Bearden that ended in a 1-1 tie, the only blemish on the nationally ranked Lady Bulldogs’ record.

The Lady Bulldogs also defeated defending Kentucky state champion Assumption, 6-0, in an August match in Chattanooga, and beat 2023 Division II-AA state champion Baylor, 3-1, in Bearden in early October. They also easily defeated Briarcrest Christian of Memphis, another usually solid program, as well as their district rivals.

In the state tournament in Chattanooga, the Lady Bulldogs beat previously undefeated Houston of Memphis, 2-1, in the quarterfinals in what turned out to be their toughest match of the postseason. They then beat Franklin, 3-1, in the semifinals before beating Ravenwood of the metro Nashville area, 4-0, in the finals on Oct. 28 at the professional CHI Memorial Stadium.

Another feature of the program – and one that really jumps out to an observer – is that Bearden has become a reloading program instead of a rebuilding one. This year, it managed to repeat as state champion despite losing several key seniors from last year’s team, including current South Carolina Gamecock player Brinley Murphy.

This year’s team also featured several senior standouts, including two – midfielder Nyla Blue and forward and multi-position player Alivia Stott – who received the honor of getting to sign with hometown Tennessee. Other key seniors to sign scholarships were Bre Mendoza with the University of Dayton and Rylie Lucas with McKendree University in Illinois.

Radcliffe said the players who go on to play major college soccer usually come from places like California and Texas, but Bearden and some other schools have increased the number from East Tennessee in recent years. And that has given the coach some extra fun during his down time trying to catch these former players on TV.

“That’s a humbling experience to see,” he said. “People are starting to take notice of the good talent around here. And seeing two of your own players sign with Tennessee is awesome.”

Regarding his secret to success − the 2023 Bearden team become the first girls’ soccer team in school history to win three consecutive state championships − he said his emphasis is on both culture and youth.

“Our culture is never going to change,” he said. “I challenge our group every year to rewrite the legacy before them.”

He has also tried to keep developing the younger players and has placed emphasis on the JV program, with assistant Peyton Berry being helpful in that realm.

His recent players are a little naïve, he said with a laugh, in that they do not know how to lose. It is an attitude that he hopes continues and that they can build even more on the past accomplishments.

“We definitely have a talented group coming back, and each year we try to get them to leave Bearden in a better place than they found it,” he said.

KARNS

Joni and Friends connects people with disabilities, and those who love them

Nancy Anderson, Shopper News

Joni and Friends hosted a Dancing Through the Decades event at Fellowship Church on 8000 Middlebrook Pike for families and individuals affected by disabilities, whether they be intellectual or physical.

The event was a great opportunity for these families to connect with each other and enjoy a little fun over crafts, ice cream sodas, a photo booth, and the most popular attraction – karaoke.

About 60 people attended the event, most dressed in attire indicating their favorite decade. A number of people dressed in tie-dye T-shirts and beads, while others dressed in ’50s poodle skirts.

The staff of Joni and Friends wore pink jackets adorned with “Pink Lady.”

There were about 15 volunteers, some from area churches with worship programs for those with disabilities, as well as other disability service providers like the Challenger League and Autism Breakthrough.

“This is a great opportunity for families who deal with disabilities to get together and connect with others. Many have already met at other Joni and Friends events,” said Lauren Richardson, area director of Joni and Friends.

Richardson explained how Joni and Friends began. In 1967, 17-year-old Joni Eareckson-Tada dove into shallow water in the Chesapeake Bay, severing her spinal cord at the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae, permanently paralyzing her from the shoulders down.

“Joni (pronounced Johnny) became desperately depressed – even to the point of suicide – but was unable to because she couldn’t move. Finally, she said ‘God, if I can’t die then show me how to live,’” explained Richardson.

Tada became an author, artist, singer, radio personality, and disability rights advocate.

She formed Joni and Friends in California in 1979. Now there are more than 20 offices in the U.S., one of which is in Knoxville at 410 S. Northshore Drive.

“She started with family retreats,” said Richardson. “They are just a regular weeklong camping experience, but everything is accessible. These retreats feature programs for the whole family, not just those with disabilities.

“There are marriage retreats, spa days, and a number of events throughout the year where people can come connect and belong. We just want to create community and a sense of belonging for not only those with disabilities but their caregivers as well.

“Joni said ‘I want to give hope to people, I want to help people with disabilities and those who care for them.’ That is our hope.”

There is a movie about Tada’s life and experiences on Prime video.

Info: tennessee@JoniandFriends.org.

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