Sharon Miller Pryse chats with Nathan Rowell Wednesday as the successful fundraiser in her home winds down. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
It has been amazing to me to see a very quiet low-key attorney who never has run for political office garner as much support and enthusiasm in such a short amount of time as Nathan Rowell has. Rowell is running for Knox County law director.
Rowell, a partner in the firm Watson Roach, has been practicing governmental law for nearly two decades. He was persuaded to run by friends and fellow attorneys who were concerned about the direction of the Knox County Law Department currently being run by a former Knox County commissioner and longtime political insider.
Joe and Sharon Miller Pryse are excellent examples of the new supporters Rowell has attracted. The couple returned this past Tuesday from a hiking trip to Patagonia and agreed to host a fundraiser for Rowell in their home the very next day!
The hot tub was lovely, but it was a little too cool for a dip. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
Sharon Pryse explained in her brief remarks Wednesday night why the couple decided to host the event even though the logistics were made difficult by their travel schedule.
She cited the heavy rotation of radio and TV ads being run by Rowell’s opponent. The ads ask voters to support the incumbent based on his friendship with other politicians.
“And that’s the problem,” Pryse said Wednesday. “The law director should be chosen based on qualifications, not friendships.”
Rowell, who has represented literally scores of Tennessee cities and counties, cited three recent examples of his work Wednesday night, including the agreement he just negotiated for the new town of Rocky Top. (Click here for a story about that.)
His campaign slogan is, “A professional. Not a politician.”
In any case, the most important support Rowell needs now is yours. Early voting is taking place until Feb. 23. Actual election day is March 1. You must vote in the Republican primary as both candidates are Republicans. There is no Democrat running, so the race will be decided March 1. Please vote for Nathan Rowell.
Come on in! The Pryses live on Kingston Pike and so kindly offered their beautiful home for this event. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
Much of the party was held on the porch, heated and enclosed, making it possible to enjoy the view of the Tennessee River all year long.
Nathan Rowell, center, with Stuart Worden and Lane Hays.
David Martin, left, with Hash and Nazzy Hashemian.
Friends Ward Phillips and Katie Kline.
Tony Cappiello and David Eldridge.
From left, Joe Pryse, Joe and Ruth Fielden, and Sharon Pryse.
The Pryses, left, with Carolyn and Rodney Neil.
David Martin chats with Nathan’s mother, Glenn Rowell.
City Councilman Duane and Marsha Grieve with Tim Young, at right.
Chase Bailey, left, and Charley Sexton.
Rachel Ford, left, with David and Desiree Eldridge.
The Pryses are flower lovers and the beautiful arrangements were proof of that.
I had to touch these spring beauties in the foyer to see if they were real! (They were.)
This very unusual vase held the arrangement on the dining room table.
Another stunning display.
An amaryllis from Christmas got so big and heavy that the bloom caused the stem to tip over. So Sharon just cut off the bloom and displayed it in a little vase of its own. I thought it was beautiful.
Nathan, left, with John Trotter, the Pryses’ neighbor on Kingston Pike.
Joe Pryse, left, with Mimi and Lou Moran, Rowell’s campaign treasurer.
Rowell with his campaign manager, Gary Drinnen.
This huge painting of pears in the kitchen is called “A Perfect Pair.” Ha.
Elegant. Sharon is the founder and CEO of The Trust Company.
A chat on the patio at sundown.
Sharon taking a break to show affection to Rocky, left, and Pearl. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
Maria took a great shot of Rocky. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
John Winemiller and Amanda Jennings. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
Check out Maria’s vest! She lives with six cats and a dog, so it’s really appropriate!
Alan Carmichael, left, and Michael Higdon.
Julia and Gary Bentley with Nathan’s mom.
Hungry?
Our hostess with David Martin and Katie Kline, at right.
Time for a few remarks by the candidate. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
These folks thought he did a great job. Especially for a non-politician. (Photo by Maria Cornelius)
Beautiful house, delightful hosts, somehow even better candidate.
I agree, Maria. But you forgot to mention the cute doggies! They support Nathan, too! Thanks for helping me take pictures.
The Pryses are so generous with their beautiful home, and Sharon sure looks good in red! The fact that they were willing to host a party on the heels of a trip to Patagonia shows how important this race is. Hope people pay attention to the election and vote for Rowell.
You are absolutely right, Michelle. The Pryses are generous hosts, Nathan is the most qualified candidate and Sharon looks good in red!
Time flies! Nathan was one of my students at the Beacon. Good memories, nice young man. Wishing him all the best in his efforts!
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