Meet Gina Jones in Knoxville - Author, Singer, Songwriter

Issue #127

09 Mar

In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Knoxville Weather - Light Rain with a High of 60

🗓️ Meet Gina Jones in Knoxville - Author, Singer, Songwriter & Learn About Her Remarkable Story

📰 UT Knoxville Launches Construction of New Dorms

📰 Local Mother Advocates for Online Safety at State of the Union

📣 Business Spotlight: River and Rail Theatre: Uniting Knoxville Through Theatre

🗓️ Upcoming Events

🗓️ Know of Some Local Events not Listed? Send us the Details!

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

UT Knoxville Launches Construction of New Dorms

The University of Tennessee embarked on a significant phase of campus development with the groundbreaking of two new residence halls this week.

Addressing the demand for additional accommodations stemming from unprecedented enrollment figures, these dormitories signify the onset of the university's engagement in public-private partnerships. This approach aims to expedite construction projects on campus and minimize financial risks for the university.

Projected to welcome students by the fall of 2025, these residence halls are part of an extensive construction initiative valued at over $1.63 billion currently underway on the campus.

Local Mother Advocates for Online Safety at State of the Union

In a heartfelt tribute to her daughter, Gail Flatt from East Tennessee will be present at the State of the Union address this Thursday. Her daughter, Sarah, tragically took her own life at 14 years old following the distressing circulation of private images by her boyfriend. Sarah was known for her vibrant personality, excelling academically, and generously offering compliments to loved ones. She had a passion for horse riding and exhibited boundless energy, though she struggled with a compelling attachment to social media.

This situation caught the attention of Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R - TN), who extended the invitation to Flatt as a gesture of solidarity and support. Senator Blackburn is actively promoting the "Kids Online Safety Act," a legislative effort aimed at imposing tighter controls on social media accounts held by minors. The bill is currently making its way through Congress.

River and Rail Theatre: Uniting Knoxville Through Theatre

River and Rail Theatre has emerged as a cornerstone of the performing arts community. This non-profit organization, now in its 9th year, is dedicated to bringing diverse and relevant stories to the stage, reflecting the vastness of the Knoxville community.

Under the leadership of Executive Director Kenneth Herring, River and Rail Theatr transcends traditional theatre boundaries. Herring, with a background in communications and business rather than theatre, brings a fresh perspective to the organization. His journey through various Knoxville theatres, combined with his academic background, has equipped him with a unique vision for making theatre accessible to all.

River and Rail Theatre distinguishes itself through its commitment to accessibility and diversity. The company offers affordable tickets through its "community access" program, ensuring everyone in the community has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of theatre.

The support from local foundations and organizations like the East Tennessee Foundation, Tennessee Arts Commission, and others has been instrumental in River and Rail's success. The theatre's efforts to promote local young artists and employ diverse local talents further demonstrate its deep integration and commitment to Knoxville's cultural and artistic development.

The excitement builds as River and Rail Theatre announces its next production, The Burn Vote, a musical that delves into the life of Harry Burn and his pivotal role in the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. Slated to run from April 25th - May 12th, 2024, this production promises to be a significant cultural event, showcasing local talent and creativity.

For those intrigued by the innovative approach of River and Rail Theatre, Kenneth Herring is your point of contact for more information. Reach out via email at [email protected] or call at (865) 310-2664. Discover more about their impactful work and upcoming productions at https://riverandrailtheatre.com/.

River and Rail Theatre Co. stands as a testament to the power of theatre to unite and inspire a community. Through its commitment to the community, it continues to be a vital part of Knoxville's cultural landscape, inviting everyone to enjoy the shared experience of storytelling.

Meet Gina Jones in Knoxville - Author, Singer, Songwriter & Learn About Her Remarkable Story

Meet Gina at Two Doors Down with the Music City Cartel on Tuesday, March 12th, 118 E. Broadway, Maryville from 6pm - 9pm, brought to you by Pro Motion, More Info

Meet Gina at Neigborly Books on Thursday, March 14th, 106 E. Broadway, Maryville from 11am - 1pm, brought to you by Pro Motion, More Info

Meet Gina at Creekside with the Music City Cartel on Friday, March 15th, 6729 Malone Creek Drive, Knoxville from 7pm - 10pm, brought to you by Pro Motion, More Info

This week, we had the privilege of sitting down with Gina Jones, a name that resonates deeply within the corridors of musical greatness. Gina, who will be in the Knoxville area through her last event on Friday, March 15th, shared with us the rich narrative of her life, a journey marked by relentless passion, adversity, and the undiminished love for music that has guided her through it all. A journey that began as atheism and grew into the strength of Christianity, shared through her book, Madame of Music Row

From the age of 9, Gina was already a musical talent, her voice and bass guitar harmonizing beautifully with the sounds of her family's band, the Ozark Rhythm Aires. With a natural grace, she navigated her early years on stage, performing at fairs, festivals, and the cherished landscapes of the Ozarks, including Branson. By this tender age, Gina had not only found her calling but had also recorded her first record, an early testament to her burgeoning talent.

Yet, Gina's story is not just one of early promise but also of remarkable achievements and brave ventures into new musical domains. As a child, she dazzled audiences and judges alike, leading to opportunities to open for legendary figures like Justin Tubb and Grammy Award winner Dottie West. At 14, emboldened by her experiences and the dreams she harbored, Gina embarked on a new venture, forming a duo that would soon catch the attention of Universal Records in Nashville. This venture marked a pivotal chapter in her career, expanding her musical footprint and setting the stage for the next leg of her journey.

The path, however, was not smooth. After her duo disbanded, Gina plunged into the world of rock music, touring the West and sharing stages in states from Idaho to California. This chapter of her life, rich with experiences, eventually led her back to her country roots and to Nashville, where her talent continued to flourish. Performing in historic venues and opening for over thirty-six Grand Ole Opry stars, Gina's Nashville years were a time of artistic growth and networking, rubbing shoulders with icons like Vern Gosdin and being mentored by the legendary Harlan Howard.

Her songwriting skills sharpened, leading to successful collaborations and publishing deals that saw her gospel music making waves on the Southern Gospel charts. But Gina's story doesn't pause there. The 90s saw her as a mainstay in Nashville's music scene, and her musical journey continued to evolve, bringing her to stages across the country, from fairs to intimate coffee houses and beyond.

The recent years have brought new heights to Gina's career, including a film company signing to chronicle her life and a record label deal. With two song cuts under her belt and more to come, Gina's story is one of continued growth, not just as an artist but as a mentor and public speaker, sharing her testimony and inspiring others.

As we sat with Gina, her story unfolded like a map of the roads traveled by a true musical nomad, each turn marked by challenges, triumphs, and the unyielding love of music that propelled her forward. Here in Knoxville, we are merely a chapter in her extensive journey, but it's a chapter filled with the warmth of her presence and the indelible mark of her music. As the Knoxville Insider, we are honored to share her story, one not just of musical achievement but of resilience, passion, overcoming, redemption and the unending pursuit of one's dreams.

Don't miss the chance to meet Gina, author of Madame of Music Row and hear her incredible story firsthand.

Get your book here or buy one at a gig or book signing!

Half of the proceeds from her latest singe are being donated the Alzheimer’s Dementia Association in Honor of Jean Barnhart (Gina’s Mother who’s battling Dementia now)

Amazon Series Called “My Story” that Gina is in is coming out soon! By Celebrity films.

 

Have an event to add? Let us know! [email protected]

Community:

Free Veteran Breakfasts: Provided by the United Veterans Council of East TN, Coffee at 8am, Chow Line at 8:30am, Saturday, March 9th at Hillcrest Community Church, 1615 Price Ave., Knoxville and Kodak Church, 2923 Bryan Rd., Kodak

East Tennessee Daylily Society: Flower gardeners - visit the Daylily Society’s Saturday, March 9th 1:30pm meeting at 804 Shannondale Way in Maryville

Farm Animal Baby Cuddling: from 3pm - 5pm every Saturday in March (March 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th), at the Friendly Farm, 1104 Rebel Hollow Rd in Tazewell, Get your tickets!

Pancake Breakfast to Benefit Tennessee Children’s Home: Pancakes, eggs, bacon, and a drink for $5 at Aubrey’s Cedar Bluff, 9208 Middlebrook Pike on Saturday, March 16th from 8am - 10am. Tickets

Used Book Sale at Powell Branch Library: on Saturday, March 16th from 10am - 5pm, 330 W Emory Rd

Pancake Fest 2024: on Friday, March 22nd from 7am - noon at the O’Connor Senior Center, 611 Winona St. More Info

Used Book Sale at Farragut Branch Library: on Friday-Saturday, March 22nd-23rd from 10am - 5pm, 417 N Campbell Station Rd

Successful Seed Starting in Six Easy Steps: hosted by Knox County Master Gardners, on Saturday, March 23rd from 10am - 11:30am at the Bloom Center, Attendance is free, but registration is required Register Here, space is limited to 20 registrants, at The Bloom Center, 6228 Anderson Drive

Crafts:

Taylor Swift-Inspired Sugar Cookie Decorating Class: at The Hub Pro Studio 1104 Merchant Dr. on Saturday, March 9th from 11am-12:30pm, Purchase Tickets

Drawstring Easter Treat Bag - Sewing class (machine): at Creative Spark Studio, 2009 East Broadway Ave in Maryville, Thursday, March 14th at 5:30pm, More Info

Embellished Cold Process Soap Making with Elizabeth: at Creative Spark Studio, 2009 East Broadway Ave in Maryville, Sunday, March 17th at 2pm, More Info

Food & Drink:

Tea Tasting Workshops: at the Spice & Tea Exchange - Black Teas on Tuesday, March 12th, Green & White Teas on Tuesday, March 19th at 6:30pm, 522 S Gay St. Cost: $30 per person per workshop. Call (865) 985-0913 to reserve your spot!

Easter Afternoon Tea: with teas, finger sandwiches, scones, sweets and guitar music, at the Spice & Tea Exchange on Sunday, March 31st at 3pm or 5pm, 522 S Gay St. Cost: $55 per person. Call (865) 985-0913 to reserve your spot!

Kids:

Kids and Youth Afternoon out, Spring Break Style: at Creative Spark Studio, 2009 East Broadway Ave in Maryville, Wednesday - Friday, March 13th - 15th, various times, More Info

Music:

Gospel Plowboys: Union County Opry at Union County High School, 150 Main St in Maynardville on Saturday, March 16th at 7pm, More Info

Theatre:

Mary Poppins: at the Lighthouse Youth Theatre, Historic Grove Theatre at 123 Randolph Road in Oak Ridge, Thursday-Friday, March 14th-15th at 7pm and Saturday, March 16th at 1pm and 6pm. Cost: $15 and up. Get Tickets/More Info

Theatre 23 Presents ‘As it is in Heaven’ by Arlene Hutton: set in the 1830’s Shaker society, at the Old City Performing Arts Center, 111 State Street, showing Friday - Sunday, March 15th - 17th, About, Tickets

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