Tag Archives: Gay Lyons

Natalie Haslam: “A gift to all of us”

A celebration of life was held for Natalie Haslam January 21 at St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Knoxville. The some 500-seat sanctuary was standing room only and the services were live-streamed into an overflow space for those who couldn’t … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Knoxville | 18 Comments

It’s 2026: Let’s get this party started!

There is no more festive location in which to ring in the new year each December 31st, than the downtown restaurant called J.C. Holdway. Located at 501 Union Avenue, it’s owned and operated by Joseph Lenn, Knoxville’s only James Beard … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Food | 3 Comments

After 22 years, we have this cookie thing down!

Our annual cookie exchange is in the books once again and I have the crumbs on the floor to prove it! Actually, this party is a group effort each year and I don’t mind sweeping up a little bit afterwards. … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Food | 10 Comments

“Artsclamation!” dazzles in new downtown digs

“Artsclamation!” has moved to downtown Knoxville! What a great move, as Friday’s preview party proved! More artists, more art, and more room! Continue reading

Filed under: Art, Knoxville | 8 Comments

“Cause for Paws:” extraordinary generosity — and fun!

  Young-Williams Animal Center had its most successful “Cause for Paws” fundraiser ever last week, CEO Janet Testerman said, with a capacity crowd celebrating the “fairy tail” endings many of its charges experience. Whimsical entertainment, a delicious dinner, a lively … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Knoxville | 2 Comments

Pete Claussen, named East Tennessean of the Year, surprises with announcement of his own

A packed ballroom of friends and supporters celebrated Knoxville businessman and philanthropist Pete Claussen being named “East Tennessean of the Year” last week. But Claussen had an announcement of his own. He donated 90 acres of land to the Seven … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Historic preservation | 8 Comments

Girl Scouts rally to recover from ruinous year

The local council of the Girl Scouts has experienced its toughest year in the organization’s history due to Hurricane Helene which devastated communities in our area last fall. But if an enthusiastic (and festive) gathering of supporters earlier this week … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Knoxville | 7 Comments

Knoxville Symphony League pulls off small miracle; Diner au Blanc et Noir succeeds despite windy storm

Those of us involved with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra know that the (mostly) women of the Knoxville Symphony League are capable of producing a wide variety of events under sometimes challenging circumstances. But a little over a week ago, I … Continue reading

Filed under: Events, Music | 2 Comments

Larsen Jay’s message resounds with downtown crowd

Besides being an excellent candidate for Knox County Mayor next year, I appreciate Larsen Jay for another important reason: he’s a great excuse for a really fun party! Alan and I — with the support of an impressive host committee … Continue reading

Filed under: Knoxville, Politics | 5 Comments

Wine & Shine: great fun for a great cause

Volunteer Ministry Center had another sold-out Don Sproles Wine & Shine fundraiser to support the ongoing operations of the “housing first” program that combats homelessness in our community.  Although the event, which features both a wine tasting and a moonshine … Continue reading

Filed under: Events | 6 Comments