Knoxville Biz Ticker: First Horizon Foundation donates $2.5 million to support COVID-19 relief efforts throughout its communities

Knoxville Biz Ticker: First Horizon Foundation donates $2.5 million to support COVID-19 relief efforts throughout its communities

MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 31, 2020 – First Horizon Foundation announced today that it is donating $2.5 million in support of COVID-19 emergency relief efforts to nonprofit organizations throughout its footprint. The funding will be distributed to select organizations that provide meal, educational and emergency assistance relief in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

“We recognize that many individuals and families are experiencing hardship due to COVID-19,” said First Horizon National Corporation Chairman and CEO Bryan Jordan. “During this unprecedented time, we want those in need in our communities to know that the First Horizon Foundation and our employees are here to support them.”

The Foundation will collaborate with the First Horizon Bank market presidents across its footprint to identify and coordinate with the organizations that will receive expedited grants intended to help the broadest number of individuals and families impacted during this national healthcare crisis.

The special COVID-19 relief funds being provided are in addition to the Foundation’s annual charitable giving grants that supported 650 organizations in 2019.

First Horizon Foundation is the private charitable foundation of First Horizon National Corporation. Founded in 1993, our Foundation has donated more than $100 million to meet community needs. Grants from the Foundation support the following impact areas: Arts & Culture, Education & Leadership, Environment, Financial Literacy, and Health & Human Services. More information is available at www.firsthorizonfoundation.com.

East Tennessee Foundation launches #COVIDgiveWhereYouLive on heels of $35,000 COVID-19 aid to local non-profit

Knoxville, TN – East Tennessee Foundation (ETF), a community foundation serving 25 East Tennessee counties with a mission of “thoughtful giving for stronger communities and better lives,” announced today that it has informed Good Neighbors of Blount County, based in Maryville, TN, of a $35,000 donation being given this week to the non-profit as part of a new #COVIDgiveWhereYouLive effort, by the family of an anonymous donor, who is a long-time supporter of ETF philanthropic initiatives.

“We were thrilled today to broker the good news to Good Neighbors of this COVID-19 community-aid gift, granted by a member of ETF’s extended family of community-philanthropy enthusiasts,” said ETF President and CEO Michael McClamroch.

Good Neighbors of Blount County is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and community ministry based in Maryville, TN, supported by multiple faith communities focused on providing temporary, partial financial aid to individuals and families impacted by economic hardship such as sudden job loss, through partial financial assistance with rent, utilities or other essentials, to help prevent homelessness. The agency also provides financial counsel and coaching, to help citizens regain self-sufficiency.

“This gift is a real shot-in-the-arm and a Godsend for Good Neighbors, as in this month alone of March 2020, Good Neighbors has already heard from 102 households – 53 in the last five days alone, which is double the norm,” said Good Neighbors Executive Director Rev. Lisa Blackwood.

“So far, the average we have spent per household has been $262 in emergency aid – in some cases, with interventions that included utility trucks in people’s apartment parking lots ready to cut off their power due to an overdue bill – which Good Neighbors was able to help prevent,” Blackwood said.

“The storm of overwhelming need is brewing, and Good Neighbors has been stacking our funds alongside COVID funds in order to serve our neighbors,” she said. “I estimate that at the current rate of need – and bearing in mind that the rate may increase dramatically in the coming weeks – Good Neighbors will serve 130-170 households, which might carry us through another five or six weeks as we continue stacking our own funds and using this generous gift solely for COVID-related cases.  We continue to meet with neighbors who are struggling for other reasons and will continue to serve them from our general funds.”

The #COVIDgiveWhereYouLive awareness campaign stems from a long-running “Give Where You Live” community-philanthropy promotion that ETF has managed for years, in helping donors across ETF’s 25-county footprint to identify specific ways to support charitable giving in the grassroots communities where they live and work.

“This announcement – starting at the grassroots with Good Neighbors of Blount County – is now part of a larger awareness campaign that we at East Tennessee Foundation wish to ignite about the urgent necessity for individuals with any capacity to give to community charities to do so – whether at a $5 level, $500 level or more, during this time of sudden global crisis,” McClamroch said. “I'm also happy to announce, when a gift is made to East Tennessee Foundation's Neighbor to Neighbor Disaster Relief Fund at etf.org/N2N, we will match that gift up to $50,000.”

As COVID-19’s public-health and economic impact has begun to surge – including in the state of Tennessee – the nonprofit world is among the sectors particularly hard-hit, and the impact includes not only the ability of non-profits to provide vital services to people in need but also to maintain their staff employment and their own purchases in communities to help support local economies.

“As a voice for philanthropic advocacy, we urge all community foundations nationwide in the U.S. as well as worldwide to join us in a #COVIDgiveWhereYouLive message, to encourage, broker and facilitate locally-based, community giving – as well as volunteerism – that directly benefit grassroots cities, towns and rural areas alike,” McClamroch said.

“The coronavirus pandemic knows no geographic boundaries and has a lot of folks feeling fear and powerlessness right now. There is no better way to reclaim a positive mindset than through the self-empowerment of philanthropic support – whether through a financial donation or simple volunteering, which in many ways can be done from home, in compliance with social distancing – such as we’ve seen with people sewing medical masks and garments for their local hospitals,” McClamroch said.

ETF encourages all citizens, non-profits and corporations to contribute their own philanthropy success stories in social media using the hashtag, #COVIDgiveWhereYouLive, and tag a favorite charity. According to ETF, volunteerism success stories are just as important as monetary success stories.

More information can be located about Good Neighbors of Blount County at goodneighborsbc.org and about East Tennessee Foundation at easttennesseefoundation.org.

For nationwide resources, donors should contact their local, regional or statewide community foundations for guidance and access to credible, legitimate giving opportunities and consult the Council on Foundations online COVID-19 Resource Hub (https://www.cof.org/news/covid-19-resource-hub) and the National Council of Nonprofits’ COVID-19 website:https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-coronavirus-covid-19.

BenchMark, Drayer seeing physical therapy patients via telehealth in response to COVID-19 Pandemic

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (March 27, 2020) – BenchMark Physical Therapy and Drayer Physical Therapy continue to operate some 25 area outpatient clinics as physical therapy is considered an essential service during the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the sister companies also are using telehealth to see patients from the comfort and safety of their homes.

Under the direct supervision of a physical therapist, patients are connecting one-on-one using a phone, computer or tablet and a secure internet connection to discuss symptoms, progress and home-exercise programs on a video call.

“Social distancing and stay-at-home practices during the coronavirus pandemic don’t have to interrupt physical or occupational therapy,” said Krisi Probert, senior vice president, clinical development. “Telehealth allows BenchMark and Drayer therapists to see current and new patients and ensure that they continue toward full recovery.”

To schedule a telehealth appointment with a BenchMark or Drayer therapist, contact your nearest clinic by visiting urpt.com/find-a-location.

The companies are part of the Upstream Rehabilitation family of brands, which comprises nearly 800 clinics in 25 states.

BenchMark (benchmarkpt.com) and Drayer (drayerpt.com) offer access to care within 24 hours and work with all insurance types.         

Dollywood presents donation to Sevier County Food Ministries 

PIGEON FORGE, TN (Saturday, March 21, 2020) --- When the Sevier County Food Ministries signified an impending need in the early winter months of 2020, Dollywood officials created a special Sevier County season pass offer for those who live or work in the county. Season passes were discounted to just $65, with five dollars from every pass sold benefitting the food ministry.

For SCFM Director Jim Davis and his staff, the donation comes at a crucial time. The check, in the amount of $16,445, will help Davis secure additional food for families who will visit in the coming months. In the time since the offer was made available, the demands on the food ministry have drastically increased due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

“This food ministry is all about helping people,” Davis said. “The Dollywood Company knows that, and that's why their leadership has always supported Sevier County Food Ministry. Dollywood is doing everything it possibly can to help their employees and our community during this situation, and this is part of that. 

“The food ministry intends to be open and available to those who need supplemental food assistance for the duration,” Davis added. “We all want to get through this, and the sooner the better.” 

Carol Agee, Dollywood Community Affairs and Philanthropy Manager, says the opportunity to help so many neighbors during this unprecedented time was the right thing to do.

“We already know the early months of the year are difficult for Jim and the food ministry,” Agee explained, “but none of us knew exactly what was going to happen and why the food ministry’s mission would become even more vital to our community. This donation is a prime example of how Sevier County residents have already been helping their neighbors. It is something we all need to focus on doing right now and this is a great start.

“We normally give Jim a check with an ‘official presentation,’ but this time we followed the social distancing protocol and I dropped it off while remaining in my car. Jim always gives each of us a big hug and thank you when we bring the check. While we didn’t get that this time, the smile on Jim’s face said it all.”

The Sevier County season passes were made available Feb. 10-16. The park’s traditional Sevier County Days will take place this June at Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country, and in November during Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana.

UnitedHealth Group commits initial $50 million to combat COVID-19 and support affected communities

MINNETONKA, MINN. (March 26, 2020) – UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) will invest an initial $50 million to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and support those most directly impacted by the public health emergency, including health care workers, hard-hit states, seniors and people experiencing food insecurity or homelessness.

“As this unprecedented public health emergency rapidly evolves, we must take bold actions to support those in need and combat the COVID-19 virus,” said Dave Wichmann, chief executive officer of UnitedHealth Group. “This initial investment of $50 million will support that effort, as we continue to mobilize the full strength of our resources, deep clinical expertise, and compassionate team to deliver the best care for patients, support our members and care providers, and deliver innovative solutions that will benefit the entire health care system.”

Through several national and local partnerships that will be announced in the coming weeks, UnitedHealth Group and the United Health Foundation will invest approximately:

• $30 million in efforts to protect and support health care workers.
• $10 million to support states where COVID-19 is having an outsized impact, starting with New York, New Jersey, Washington, California and Florida.
• $5 million to address social isolation among seniors.
• $5 million to provide care and support for people experiencing food insecurity or homelessness.

UnitedHealth Group is also organizing and matching employee donations dollar for dollar to support the COVID-19 response efforts.

“We are partnering with leading industry and non-profit organizations to ensure resources are deployed quickly and effectively to accelerate the efforts to fight COVID-19 and provide support for those most impacted by this global health crisis,” Wichmann continued.

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is a diversified health care company dedicated to helping people live healthier lives and helping to make the health system work better for everyone. UnitedHealth Group offers a broad spectrum of products and services through two distinct platforms: UnitedHealthcare, which provides health care coverage and benefits services; and Optum, which provides information and technology-enabled health services. For more information, visit UnitedHealth Group at www.unitedhealthgroup.com or follow @UnitedHealthGrp on Twitter.

BlueCross Foundation giving $3.25 million to 
Tennessee food relief efforts 

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation is donating $3.25 million to multiple food banks across the state.

The financial gift will help Tennessee food banks meet the needs of the communities affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Food banks can often purchase supplies at a much lower cost than individuals can, stretching to provide as many as four meals for each dollar they receive in cash donations. 

“Every day, families count on local food banks for help — and that’s especially true now,” said JD Hickey, M.D., chairman of the BlueCross Foundation. “Tennesseans can get through these challenging times by coming together, and we’re expanding our support for food banks statewide as another way to bring peace of mind to our neighbors.”

The BlueCross Foundation will distribute food relief funds to the following organizations:

• $750,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank (Nashville)
• $750,000 to Mid-South Food Bank (Memphis)
• $500,000 to Chattanooga Area Food Bank
• $500,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee (Knoxville)
• $500,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee (Tri-Cities)
• $250,000 to Regional Inter-Faith Association (Jackson)

The state of Tennessee declared a state of emergency to facilitate the treatment and containment of COVID-19, a global pandemic, on March 12. And due to the coronavirus outbreak, the demand for food assistance is expected to increase with school closures and time away from work.

Community members who want to help can find and donate to their local food bank by visiting www.FeedingAmerica.org.

As the philanthropic arm of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, which has offices in Chattanooga, Nashville, Memphis, Jackson, Knoxville and Johnson City, the BlueCross Foundation also provided financial and volunteer support for Middle Tennessee relief efforts after a devastating tornado swept through the region earlier this month.    

For more on how BlueCross is responding to COVID-19, visit BCBSTupdates.com.

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is a taxpaying, not-for-profit health plan serving more than 3.5 million members in Tennessee and around the country. The Chattanooga-based company was founded in 1945 and is celebrating its 75th anniversary of bringing peace of mind to its members and local communities. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Inc. is an independent licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association. For more information, visit the company’s news center at bcbstnews.com.

The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation, Inc., was established in December 2003 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized to promote the philanthropic mission of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. The foundation provides funding for the BlueCross Healthy Place program, which creates active, healthy spaces across Tennessee.

First Horizon Foundation donates $10K to COVID-19 emergency fund

Knoxville, TENN. (March 24) – In response to the COVID-19 crisis impacting our community and our nation, First Horizon Foundation is donating $10,000 to United Way of Greater Knoxville’s Knox County COVID-19 Response Fund. This money will directly support local agencies that are serving our most vulnerable populations – such as providing food for children out of school, rent and utilities assistance for families experiencing layoffs, health services for our homeless population, and much more.

First Horizon Bank was established 150 years ago and has seen our community through good times and bad. In this time of crisis, East Tennessee Region President Dave Miller said that along with their efforts to keep their employees and clients safe and healthy, First Horizon is making sure they do their part to help the most vulnerable in our community.

In a video challenging other businesses to join them, Miller said, “If your organization, or your family is in a position to do so, we encourage you to consider a gift for this fund.”

United Way of Greater Knoxville, in partnership with Alliance for Better Nonprofits and in conversation with the East Tennessee Foundation, launched the Knox County COVID-19 Response Fund last week to support local non-profits providing essential services for those affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Many people in our community have reached out over the past few days looking for ways they can stay involved and contribute while under quarantine. This online fundraiser is a way for individuals to help their neighbors and make a difference while staying safe and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

If you’d like to contribute, please visit www.uwgk.org or text “KNOXCOVID” to 41444. If you or someone you know is in need of information or assistance, please dial 2-1-1 or visit the Knox County Health Department’s website.

United Way of Greater Knoxville is a local, independent organization dedicated to building a stronger community by focusing on the areas of education, financial stability and health. In partnership with nonprofit agencies, local business, community leaders and ordinary citizens, United Way is improving the lives of individuals in Knoxville. By working together, we provide a network of services addressing Knoxville's most urgent needs while working toward lasting change. The United Way of Greater Knoxville fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in Greater Knoxville. We find the problems. We fund the solutions. To live better, we must LIVE UNITED.

For more information, please call (865) 521-5580.

Caregiver Inc. announces acquisitions of four more companies

Rapid Growth Expands Quality Services in Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee

(FORT WORTH, Texas) -- Caregiver Inc., a leading provider of long-term care services and supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, announced today it has acquired four companies, setting an unprecedented pace for continued rapid growth and expanding services in Indiana, Ohio and Tennessee. In February, Caregiver completed acquisition of Mosaic operations in Texas.  With these recent acquisitions, Caregiver has acquired 15 companies since 2015.

“Caregiver is filling a strong need for change in the way care is delivered in a lower-cost environment that ensures people are getting the quality services they need to feel independent and live their lives,” said Mark Lashley, chief executive officer, Caregiver.  “Caregiver’s strategy, vision, structure and values are allowing us to continue to do that successfully and change the industry.”

Fort Worth-based Caregiver closed on the latest acquisition on March 13 -- Indiana-based Houston Group Homes. The company operates in Boone and Montgomery counties serving approximately 40 individuals in intermediate care group homes. Houston Group Homes employs about 40 full-time workers.

In Columbus, Ohio, Caregiver has purchased Cori Care and Absolute Care, expanding the company’s operations to six leading brands in the state. Cori Care provides care to more than 100 individuals in community residential settings with approximately 220 employees. Cori Care also provides day rehab services, marking Caregiver’s entry into this service in Columbus, which it intends to expand across Franklin County. The sale was completed in December 2019. Absolute Care provides care to about 50 individuals in the Columbus area, also in residential settings with about 130 employees. The sale was completed in October 2019.

In eastern Tennessee, Caregiver has acquired Personal Care Choices, which provides in-home care, community-based day services, personal assistance, and personal care to approximately 40 individuals in Maryville and Cleveland with about 40 employees. The acquisition, which closed in December 2019, allows Caregiver to expand into a new service line in the state.

“Strategically, we’ve found likeminded high-quality service providers who were looking for the right partner to take their business to the next level,” said Gary Nettis Jr., chief development officer, Caregiver. “We’re excited to round out our portfolio offerings and continue to provide with compassion and respect the best services possible to vulnerable populations.”

At Caregiver, we are guided by a mission to enable people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead their unique lives with dignity, independence, and inclusion. Respect for an individual’s abilities is the foundation of our work. We provide intermediate, home and community care services in innovative and loving environments to thousands of individuals through our affiliates in Texas, Tennessee, Indiana, and Ohio. They include Unified Care Group, Southern Concepts, River Gardens, Daybreak Community Services Inc., St. Giles Living Centers, DSA of Indiana, HHC of Ohio, and Omni Support Services of Tennessee. Learn more about Caregiver at www.cg-idd.com or call (800) 299-5161.

Three more weeks of the Winter Farmers’ Market

The Winter Farmers’ Market will be open only three more Saturdays, through March 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the gym of St. Mary’s School, 323 Vermont Ave., Oak Ridge.  

“Local food is safe food,” said market director Rebecca Williams. “At every market we take steps to ensure food safety, and we regularly check farmer and food producer booths to make sure they are complying with USDA food safety guidelines. 

“Remember, this is our farmers’ livelihood, so we do hope you will come out to the market and support them. Obviously, use common sense. If you are ill, please stay home for your protection and that of others,” Williams added. 

In addition to 30 farmers, bakers and artisans, the market on March 14 features mushroom producer Possum Bottom Farms, Refill Coffee Cart, and musicians Liza Jane & Curly. 

“Children who participate in Power of Produce Club will earn $2 in market tokens to spend on produce they pick out,” said Williams. “For the next three weeks, our food tasting is optional for children, but all kids 12 and under have the chance to earn tokens to spend in the market.” 

The Winter Farmers’ Market is the only one in Anderson County that accepts SNAP/EBT benefits (food stamps), and it doubles them for fresh fruits and vegetables, up to $20 per day, at the Welcome Desk.

The market is produced by Grow Oak Ridge, a local 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving health in Anderson County by connecting local farmers and locally grown foods to the public. 

For more information about the Winter Farmers’ Market, please visit www.GrowOakRidge.org.

Food City hosts grand opening events in Pigeon Forge

K-VA-T Food Stores Inc. is excited to be hosting a celebration marking the opening of their new Pigeon Forge Food City.

Food City will host a Business After Hours Reception on Tuesday, March 17th from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.  Ribbon cutting and flag raising ceremonies are slated to begin at 5:15 p.m.

The Grand Opening will follow on Wednesday, March 18th, beginning at 8 a.m.

The new Food City location in Pigeon Forge is located at 3064 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.

Oak Ridge modernizes critical wastewater treatment system

OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – EM workers are making progress upgrading aging radiological wastewater treatment infrastructure essential to Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) operations.

They are installing a new zeolite treatment system, which is designed to remove cesium and strontium from wastewater.

Installation of that system is the latest modernization effort funded by a $17 million EM investment over the past two years to extend the life of the Liquid and Gaseous Waste Operations infrastructure. Crews have replaced deteriorated piping, antiquated equipment, and failing electrical systems.

The infrastructure consists of numerous interconnected facilities that support crucial waste treatment activities for EM and DOE’s Office of Science. Due to its age and deteriorated condition, Building 3544 presented one of the largest risks to the Liquid and Gaseous Waste Operations. For more than four decades the building had served as a radiological wastewater treatment facility, housing the previous zeolite treatment system.

EM investigated several alternatives before choosing to install a modernized zeolite treatment system at Building 3608, which formerly served as a non-radiological wastewater treatment facility.

“Moving the treatment system to a new facility and modernizing the equipment allows us to continue effectively treating wastewater in a safe, cost-effective manner,” said Nathan Felosi, EM ORNL portfolio federal project director. “EM’s work to upgrade essential infrastructure and address excess contaminated facilities is protecting and enabling ORNL’s current and future research missions.”

Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management cleanup contractor UCOR is installing the new treatment system. It includes five vessels — two dual media filters and three zeolite columns — and dewatering equipment. The vessels were assembled and tested by the manufacturer prior to being transported to the facility.

UCOR is scheduled to conduct startup testing on the new treatment system this spring, after new equipment is operational. Following testing, Building 3544 will go into standby status for up to a year, serving as a backup for the new treatment system at Building 3608.

DENSO Veteran Fundraiser gifted to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs

As a result of an internal fundraiser recognizing our military Veterans, DENSO employees will make a donation to the Smoky Mountain Service Dogs.

Every November, DENSO makes available for sale t-shirts to recognize employees who have or are currently serving in the U.S. military. Proceeds from the sale of the shirts are donated to a local non-profit organization.

This year, a $10,170 gift will be donated to Smoky Mountain Service Dogs – an organization dedicated to enhancing the physical and psychological quality of life for wounded Veterans by providing custom trained mobility assistance service dogs at no cost to the Veteran.

The donation is being made on National K9 Veterans Day to honor the service and sacrifices of American military and working dogs throughout history.

Zoo Knoxville and Turtle Survival Alliance awarded $50,000 grant to return rescued tortoises to the wild in Madagascar

Knoxville, Tenn. (March 9, 2020) – Zoo Knoxville and the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA), have been awarded a $50,000 grant to support the return of 1,000 critically endangered Radiated Tortoises to the wild after they were rescued from an illegal wildlife trafficking operation in Madagascar.  The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is funding priority conservation projects through the newly established SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction® granting program.  The reintroduction of radiated tortoise in Madagascar project was one of five programs chosen for funding. 

The process to return these tortoises to the wild is an involved one.  After an appropriate release site is determined, “soft” release pens must be built to hold the tortoises until they have acclimated and become established in their new territory; otherwise they could die or be recaptured by poachers trying to return to the area they originated from.  Radio transmitters will be used to track their locations as they expand into their new home, and a coordinator from the TSA will work with residents of the local community, who consider them sacred, to protect them from poachers. 

These tortoises were part of 10,976 rescued from a single residence in the city of Toliara on the southwestern coast of Madagascar in 2018, the largest global confiscation of tortoises ever.  Illegal trafficking, fueled by demand in Asia where they are used in traditional medicine or as pets and in their native Madagascar as a food delicacy for the more affluent classes, is wiping out entire populations of tortoises.  Tortoises have long life expectancies and are slow to mature to reproductive age, and the rate of poaching is far exceeding their reproductive abilities in addition to eradicating entire generations of turtles from the wild.  The populations of Radiated Tortoises have declined by 75-80% over the last 20 years and within the next 20 years, as many as one-third of the world‘s 300 species of tortoises and freshwater turtles may be gone due to poaching for the international black market. 

Zoo Knoxville and the Turtle Survival Alliance work in partnership to release tortoises confiscated from illegal trafficking back into the wild.  The Turtle Survival Alliance provides safe holding facilities to care for confiscated tortoises in southern Madagascar and advocates for local communities to be protectors of their native wildlife.  Zoo Knoxville’s herpetologists are recognized globally as experts in the care and breeding of Radiated Tortoises and the team travels to Madagascar to share their expertise and assist in times of crisis.  Zoo Knoxville also supports local advocacy efforts in Madagascar by providing donations and supplies for local schools.    

Zoo Knoxville is one of the top zoos in the world for the breeding and husbandry of Radiated Tortoises and works as part of a collaborative Species Survival Plan to maintain a healthy population in human care with zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).  Zoo Knoxville and the Turtle Survival Alliance are also founding members of the Radiated Tortoise SAFE program, which supports conservation efforts to restore populations of confiscated tortoises in Madagascar.  The Radiated Tortoise SAFE program is also supported by HawkWatch, Utah's Hogle Zoo, Oklahoma City Zoo, and Saint Louis Zoo.

“Zoo Knoxville, in partnership with other zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), is working as part of the largest conservation movement on the planet to respond to the global crisis being caused by illegal trafficking of wildlife.  We are internationally recognized for our expertise with Radiated Tortoises, and the funding provided by the AZA SAFE grant will allow us to apply that to restore and protect wild populations in Madagascar,” said Zoo Knoxville President and CEO Lisa New.  “Modern zoos are playing a critical role in using our expertise in animal care to support boots on the ground.”      

"The AZA SAFE grant will allow us to take the next big step in our ‘Confiscation to Reintroduction Strategy’ for Radiated Tortoises in Madagascar.  We have identified the sites, engaged the communities, and have 1000 tortoises soon to be cleared for release.  Now we have the funds to properly monitor them post-release.  Reintroduction is an intensive process, and with 25,000 tortoises in our captive centers, it is imperative that we develop a model for transitioning them back into the wild to restore depleted populations," said Rick Hudson, President,Turtle Survival Alliance.

Wildlife trafficking is ranked as the fourth most profitable transnational crime, only behind the drug trade, arms trade, and human trafficking.  It is estimated to generate billions of dollars each year for dangerous international networks.   Zoo Knoxville is a member of the the Wildlife Trafficking Alliance, a coalition of corporate and non-profit organizations working together to combat wildlife trafficking by raising public awareness, reducing consumer demand for illegal wildlife and wildlife products, and mobilizing companies in a variety of sectors to adopt best practices to stop wildlife trafficking.  Learn more about what can be done to take stop illegal trafficking and to support legislation to protect wildlife at https://wildlifetraffickingalliance.org/

Zoo Knoxville is a nonprofit entity situated on 53 wooded acres just east of downtown Knoxville. Zoo Knoxville features exhibits of wild animals in natural habitats and is world renowned for its efforts in conservation and species survival. Zoo Knoxville is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is committed to the highest standards in animal care and well-being, ethics, conservation, and education. Knoxville’s largest attraction, the zoo is open every day except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  The zoo is open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. through March 1.  The zoo is currently open from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.  Admission and ticket sales stop one-hour before the zoo closes. For more information visit zooknoxville.org.

Turtle Survival Alliance is a non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) status. Since its formation in 2001, TSA has become recognized as a global force for turtle conservation, capable of taking swift and decisive action on behalf of critically endangered tortoises and freshwater turtles. With its commitment to “zero turtle extinctions,” TSA transforms passion for turtles into effective conservation action through: (1) restoring populations in the wild where possible; (2) securing endangered species in captivity through assurance colonies; and (3) building the capacity to restore, secure, and conserve species within their range countries. In addition to the Turtle Survival Center in South Carolina, TSA manages collaborative turtle conservation programs in 15 diversity hotspots around the world. For more information, visit: www.turtlesurvival.org; http://www.facebook.com/turtlesurvival; www.instagram.com/turtlesurvival; @turtlesurvival on Twitter.

U.S. Cellular opens new state-of-the-art store in Knoxville

To better serve the Knoxville community, U.S. Cellular has relocated its store at 8401 Kingston Pike to its brand new location at 7412 Kingston Pike in Bearden. Customers can now shop in a layout with modern features and interactive access to the latest technology including newest devices, smart home solutions and consumer electronics.

The new store is open from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 12-5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, contact the store at 865-777-7777.

A grand opening with festivities for the community will follow later this spring.

Rhea County small business adds jobs, lands contracts

OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – A little over a year into a mentor-protégé agreement, Rhea-county-based Hatfield Construction, LLC is competing with the big firms. “We just secured our first prime contract with the federal government,” says CEO Cindy Hatfield.

Not only is Hatfield Construction competing with larger firms—they are also becoming larger. The small business hired five employees—an almost 25% increase in staff—to handle the increased workload. Working through a mentor-protégé agreement with Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC, which operates Y-12 National Security Complex, has helped Hatfield develop the programs and processes required to compete for and win government contracts.

From developing a website to justifying rental rates for unique concrete finishing equipment, CNS mentor Bill Hevrdeys has helped guide the firm’s growth. But the government gets something out of this relationship, too. “We get the skills and services we need while helping them grow their business,” notes Hevrdeys.

Developing compliant safety and quality management programs isn’t easy. For businesses like Hatfield’s with minimal support staff, the challenge can seem insurmountable. The goal, says Hevrdeys, is to make the programs compliant with U.S. Department of Energy regulations using a graded approach.

The mentoring program is a success because Hatfield Construction is committed to the growth of their company and the safety and quality of their work. In fact, their concrete finishing work exceeded expectations.

Even success isn’t enough for the company—they are focused on improvement. The president of the company, Brian Hatfield, helped improve the concrete mix delivery process to achieve high quality floor finishes. With Hatfield Construction’s commitment and focus, it will be interesting to see what the second year of the agreement brings.

Home Builders Association 2020 Home Show at Knoxville Convention Center is this Friday through Sunday

(In short, as of today, Thursday, March 12, 2020 HBAGK is "open for business" as it relates to normal office functions, all scheduled committee meetings and our upcoming Home Show this weekend at the Knoxville Convention Center.)

KNOXVILLE, TENN. – March 9, 2020 –  The Home Builders Association of Greater Knoxville (HBAGK) Home Show 2020 is at the Knoxville Convention Center this weekend. The show opens on Friday, March 13 at 11 a.m. and continues until Sunday evening March 15 at 6 p.m.

Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs will officially open the HBAGK Home Show at 11 a.m. this Friday morning. For the first time ever, the 2020 HBAGK Home Show features:

• Raise the Woof – Students from Knox County Schools will participate in a doghouse building competition at this year’s show. Doghouses will be auctioned at the show to benefit Young-Williams Animal Center. Raise the Woof competition is sponsored by A & C Trades, Tindell’s, 84 Lumber, Lowe’s, Anderson Lumber Company and Builders First Source.
• Admission to the Home Show is $5 – but attendees who bring a donation of dog or cat food (worth $5) for Young-Williams Animal Center will be admitted for FREE.
• Job Fair – Hundreds of Knox County students will attend the HBAGK Home Show 2020 on Friday, March 13 for FREE to meet with exhibitors who are currently hiring.

The HBAGK Home Show, sponsored by ORNL Federal Credit Union and James Hardie Building Products, features East Tennessee’s premier builders, subcontractors and suppliers. Tickets are available for $5 online at www.HBAGKHomeShow.com or at the door (FREE admission for those who bring a dog or cat food donation worth $5).

The HBAGK Home Show is the region's favorite and longest-running home show – this is the 69th annual HBAGK Home Show – and the only home show for people wishing to have face-to-face contact with the area's premier builders, designers, landscape companies, flooring companies, kitchen and bath remodelers, home security system providers, door and window companies and more.

"The Home Builders Association of Greater Knoxville represents the most professional, experienced and trustworthy builders, subcontractors and suppliers in East Tennessee," HBAGK President Alan Van Why said. "The HBAGK Home Show is the only show that gives people direct access to the region’s most established and reputable building industry professionals."

The Home Builders Association of Greater Knoxville home builders, developers and remodelers in Knox, Anderson, Campbell, Claiborne, Cocke, Fentress, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Loudon, Monroe, Morgan, Roane, Scott, Sevier and Union counties. 

For more information about the HBAGK Home Show 2020, visit www.HBAGKHomeShow.com.

Bridgestone hosts grand opening at Firestone Complete Auto Care location in Knoxville

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 6, 2020) – Bridgestone Retail Operations (BSRO), a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Inc. (Bridgestone), today hosted a grand opening of its newest Firestone Complete Auto Care retail tire and automotive service location in Knoxville, Tenn.

The store, located at 339 N. Cedar Bluff Road, features a newly designed in-store experience to better serve customers, which includes digital displays for real time updates, and the latest automotive service technologies and equipment that allow for quicker and better auto repairs.

The March 6 grand opening event featured remarks from Tennessee Lieutenant Governor Randy McNally and a ribbon-cutting led by McNally, local government officials and BSRO teammates. A donation was also presented to Markus Jackson, COO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, as part of the Company’s national Driving Great Futures campaign with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). The donation will help the Boys & Girls Club of the Tennessee Valley provide a safe, productive environment for 1,300 kids and teens across four counties during critical out-of-school hours.

“We are excited to expand our BSRO footprint in Knoxville to serve more customers and continue toward our goal of being the most trusted provider of automotive care in every neighborhood we serve,” said Marko Ibrahim, Vice President of Stores for BSRO. “Thanks to our partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we also hope to make a difference in the lives of Knoxville area families and kids as we strengthen our presence as a trusted neighbor.”   

The new Knoxville location will offer promotional tire and automotive service specials to customers throughout the grand opening weekend. For store hours and more information, visit www.firestonecompleteautocare.com.

Innovative service contracting software platform XOi selects Ripley PR as public relations agency of record

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – March 9, 2020 – XOi Technologies, a Nashville-based company that provides the cloud-based mobile application XOi Vision to simplify the work of residential and commercial service technicians and transform the customer experience, has selected Ripley PR as its public relations agency of record to continue growth, increase brand awareness and establish its team of experts as thought leaders in the service contractor, technology and leadership sectors. 

“Ripley PR has repeatedly demonstrated an understanding of the industry that we serve,” said Aaron Salow, founder and CEO of XOi. “The Ripley team has had consistent success in the residential and commercial service space, for contractors throughout the U.S. and national B2B clients. Ripley PR’s previous experience within the tech space, especially in blue-collar industries, gives us confidence that their work will support XOi’s efforts to expand our presence.”

KaTom expanding facility and associates, adding 100 new jobs

Knoxville, Tennessee –March 3, 2020  - KaTom Restaurant Supply, is growing again, both physically with an expansion and with associates, adding 100 new jobs.

“Our focus is on continued significant growth every year,” said founder/CEO/President Patricia Bible. “We are always planning an expansion to accommodate that growth.” Bible runs the family-owned business with her daughter Paula Chesworth and son Charley Bible.

Ground was formally broken on the new addition this morning. The additional 58,000 square feet will include warehouse storage, equipment display, a media production facility and office space.

“Having more space and better facilities just helps us do more for our clients and associates,” said Bible. “It helps us keep growing and contributing more to the community as well.”

“This is great news for Sevier County,” said Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters. “When we get a homegrown East Tennessee company that keeps expanding its workforce it’s good for every part of our economy.”

Loans for the project came from the US Department of Agriculture Rural Development and Community Trust Bank.

“Small, local businesses are the engines of a rural community,” said USDA Tennessee Director of Rural Development Jim Tracy. “We are happy to assist KaTom Restaurant Supply with their business expansion and debt refinance that will ultimately create new jobs, retain existing jobs, and increase economic opportunities in the area.”

“Sevierville and Sevier County continue to grow and KaTom is an important part of that,” said Sevierville Chamber Board Chair Jeff Murrell.  “100 new jobs means 100 families positively impacted, and good news for all the local businesses with which those folks spend money.”

KaTom was founded in the Bible family garage in Morristown, Tennessee and had just a few employees. Soon its facility in Kodak will have almost 170,000 square feet and 280 associates. The firm will likely top $250 million in sales this year.  KaTom has made the Inc.5000 Fastest Growing Companies in America an astounding 11 years in a row.  Only some .22 percent of the companies that made the list have accomplished that.

Pellissippi State celebrates more than 
$14 million raised for new buildings, student support

Pellissippi State Community College will celebrate the end of its Campaign for Pellissippi State, a four-year effort to raise money to build the Bill Haslam Math and Science Center on the Hardin Valley Campus and the Ruth and Steve West Workforce Development Center on its Blount County Campus, as well as to expand its Audio Production Engineering concentration to its Magnolia Avenue Campus and to support students with scholarships and a fund for emergency expenses.

Friday, March 6, the festivities will begin at 10 a.m. on the Blount County Campus and at 2 p.m. on the Hardin Valley Campus.

• West Chevrolet Auditorium on the Blount County Campus, 2731 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway
• J.L. Goins College Center on the Hardin Valley Campus, 10915 Hardin Valley Road

Pellissippi State Community College offers a high-quality, affordable, convenient and personal education to prepare students to achieve their educational and career goals. We offer associate degrees, certificates, workforce development programs and transfer pathways to four-year degrees. Pellissippi State is a Tennessee Board of Regents institution.

The Christman Company acquires MEDCO Construction from Baylor Scott & White Health

GRAPEVINE, Texas – The Christman Company, a national construction management and real estate development firm based in Lansing, Michigan, and with an office in Knoxville, Tennessee, has acquired MEDCO Construction in Texas.

The acquisition allows Christman, which also has an office in Grapevine, Texas, to expand its construction services and sets the stage for growth in Texas and surrounding areas.

MEDCO was the construction arm of Baylor Scott & White Health, the largest not-for-profit healthcare system in Texas. It had previously operated as an in-house construction partner for the system for more than 55 years. The unique collaboration resulted in some of the most innovative medical centers in the system and the state of Texas.

With this acquisition, the former MEDCO staff joins forces with Christman, combining national level expertise with long-standing local relationships. With more than $1 billion in annual revenue, Christman was seeking a strategic partnership in the region and together with Baylor Scott & White Health, determined this would be a good fit for both organizations.

“The expansion of resources allows us to serve clients in sectors where Christman excels, such as healthcare, corporate headquarters, higher education and places of worship,” said Steven Roznowski, president and CEO of Christman. “Our new team members share Christman’s cultural foundations of integrity, safety and providing the highest value for clients. Together, we will deliver value through an extended network of national resources.”

At a recent celebration marking 2,000 days without a lost-time accident, Denward Freeman, who served as president at MEDCO, said, “We are excited to join The Christman Company, with their dedication to safety and expertise in complex healthcare environments. This and other common values will allow our teams to serve our clients with quality and integrity.”

Baylor Scott & White Health COO John McWhorter added, “We are confident that Christman will advance MEDCO’s mission of offering exceptional services as a leader in construction.”

Christman’s expansive network of programs and services are immediately available and include self-perform and millwork skilled trades.

The Christman Company, founded in 1894, is one of the country’s leading professional construction services firms. The company’s award-winning services include construction management, general contracting, design/build, program management, real estate development, self-perform and millwork services. Christman specializes in a variety of construction markets, including government, higher and K12 education, industrial and power, healthcare, and corporate office. Ranked at 93 in the Engineering News-Record ENR 400 top contractors nationally and 63 in the ENR 100 Construction Management-at-Risk firms , Christman has more than $4 billion in construction underway managed by 485 professional employees across five states throughout the Southeast U.S., the Midwest, the Southwest U.S., and the mid-Atlantic. For more information, visit http://www.christmanco.com, and connect on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter.

SmartFinancial, Inc. completes acquisition of Progressive Financial Group, Inc.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., March 2, 2020 – SmartFinancial, Inc., Knoxville, Tennessee (“SmartFinancial”) (Nasdaq: SMBK), parent company of SmartBank, today announced the completion of its previously-announced acquisition of Progressive Financial Group, Inc. (“Progressive”), and Progressive’s wholly owned bank subsidiary, Progressive Savings Bank. Effective March 1, 2020, Progressive has been merged with and into SmartFinancial, and Progressive Savings Bank has been merged with and into SmartBank. Based on financial data as of December 31, 2019, the combined company has total consolidated assets of approximately $2.7 billion.

“We are very pleased to complete the merger with Progressive.  The opportunity allows us to expand our franchise in Tennessee and introduce the SmartBank brand to the Upper Cumberland region,” said SmartFinancial President and CEO, Billy Carroll.  ““We also look forward to integrating Progressive’s insurance agency as a new line of business across our entire footprint and providing greater resources to our clients.”

SmartFinancial Chairman Miller Welborn added, “We are excited to welcome Progressive’s clients, shareholders and team members to the SmartBank family. We also welcome Ottis Phillips to our SmartBank Board of Directors and we look forward to working with Ottis is the months ahead. Our entire SmartBank team is excited to enter this new market in Tennessee.”

SmartFinancial and SmartBank were advised by the law firm Alston & Bird LLP, and Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.  served as financial advisor to SmartFinancial and SmartBank. Olsen Palmer LLC served as financial advisor to Progressive and Progressive Savings Bank, and Progressive and Progressive Savings Bank were advised by the law firm Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC. 

SmartFinancial, Inc., based in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the bank holding company for SmartBank. SmartBank is a full-service commercial bank founded in 2007 and with completion of the Merger will have 35 branches across Tennessee, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle. Recruiting the best people, delivering exceptional client service, strategic branching and acquisitions, and a disciplined approach to lending have contributed to SmartBank’s success. More information about SmartFinancial can be found on its website: www.smartfinancialinc.com.

2020 Festival + Event Guide to Volunteering launches March 2

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., March 2, 2020 – Volunteer East Tennessee’s 2020 Festival + Event Guide to Volunteering goes live Monday, March 2 at 8:00 AM on the organization’s website volunteeretn.org/FestivalGuide. 

The 2020 guide features dozens of volunteer opportunities during East Tennessee’s unofficial festival and event season: March, April, May, and June. 

Whether you want to lead games at Shamrock Fest in support of East Tennessee Kidney Foundation, enjoy great music while volunteering at Dogwood Arts newest music festival, Southern Skies, or bask in the spirit of competition at the 2020 Big BBQ Bash benefitting Helen Ross McNabb, the guide has something for everyone. 

Individuals and groups can connect with the over 20 nonprofit and community organizations included in this year’s guide. Looking to give back with your family or youth under the age of 16?  Family-friendly ways to serve are highlighted for ease. The guide will be updated weekly on Sundays through June.

For more information on the 2020 Festival + Event Guide to Volunteering visit VolunteerETN.org/FestivalGuide.

Connect with Volunteer East Tennessee on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and use #VolETN.

Volunteer East Tennessee’s mission is to inspire service by equipping organizations and mobilizing volunteers to connect with one another and strengthen communities. Volunteer East Tennessee is a nonprofit organization that offers technology assistance to regional nonprofit organizations to help them recruit quality volunteers, provide volunteer training, and a broader reach into the community and region.

Johnson Architecture project Chesapeake’s West earns Keep Knoxville Beautiful award

Chesapeake’s West, designed by Johnson Architecture, has earned a 2020 Keep Knoxville Beautiful Orchids Award for the transformation of a tire center into a modern, nautical dining experience. Award winners were announced at a ceremony Feb. 25.

To accomplish their vision, the owners, Copper Cellar Family of Restaurants, collaborated with longtime partner Johnson Architecture to artfully remake the cinderblock building into a 17,600-square-foot restaurant and event space.

“Starting with the shell of a tire warehouse in an unassuming location required us to be creative about how to bring life into the space,” said Daryl Johnson, founder and president of Johnson Architecture. “Our solution was a shipboard-comfortable environment with a sleek, industrial look. The entire team appreciates this recognition for the finished product from Keep Knoxville Beautiful.”

The Orchids Awards are presented annually to recognize Knoxville’s most beautiful properties and the local businesses and organizations who work to create them. Chesapeake’s West was honored in the restaurant/café/bar/brewery category.

The restaurant includes an open dining room, bar area, wine vault and heated patio. The site also features a private dining and meeting room, as well as two large banquet areas, one with a private patio and fireplace. It is served by two full kitchens, one for the restaurant and one for catering.

Formerly a nondescript building, Chesapeake’s West now draws attention with its mix of calming blues, soft lighting and industrial aesthetic. The upscale restaurant and event space at 9630 Parkside Drive elevated the building as well as its surroundings.

In 2019, Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation’s Five Points 2, an affordable housing complex in East Knoxville designed by Johnson Architecture and Ross/Deckard Architects, earned an Orchids Award in the new architecture category.

Founded in 1994 by Daryl Johnson, AIA, Johnson Architecture is a design firm that provides architecture, planning and full in-house interior design services for facilities of all types. Johnson Architecture has designed various sized projects for numerous purposes, including commercial, educational, healthcare, residential, restaurant, tourism and spiritual. Notable clients include Blackberry Farm, Clayton Homes, First Presbyterian Church, Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation, Covenant Health, DENSO, Zoo Knoxville and The University of Tennessee.

Museum of Appalachia hosts Employment Fair Open House in preparation for busy spring season

Norris, TN – On Saturday, March 7th, 2020, the Museum of Appalachia will host its second annual Employment Fair Open House as preparations are well underway for several spring events and the seasonal upswing in tourism activity.

The Museum puts a passionate emphasis on its “Southern Hospitality”, and will be looking for friendly, warm individuals who enjoy working with the public.  Become part of a cohesive team and help make an important contribution to the preservation of Appalachian pioneer history. 

The Open House will begin at 10am and continue to 12:00pm. Museum Staff will be on hand to conduct immediate interviews for openings in the Gift Shop, Groundskeeping, Museum Café and the Maintenance Department.

Come a little early, bring your resume and fill out an application. Opportunities for full time, part time, permanent and summer positions will be on the roster.

For an application, visit www.museumofappalachia.org.

The Museum of Appalachia, a Smithsonian Affiliate, is an internationally acclaimed living history farm/village--home to a unique collection of early pioneer artifacts from the Southern Appalachian Mountains. A non-profit organization, the Museum’s mission is to preserve Appalachian artifacts and to cultivate a greater knowledge of, and appreciation for, Appalachian heritage. The Museum is located 16 miles north of Knoxville, one mile east of I-75, at Exit 122.