In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Knoxville Weather - Clear with a High of 66

🗓️ Join the Fun at the O'Connor Senior Center's Annual Pancake Fest this Friday

📰 Little Explorers Childcare Coming Soon to West Hills

📰 Knoxville Man, 77, Sentenced to 10 Years for Soliciting Minors and Obstructing Justice

📰 Knoxville Job Fairs Open Doors to Opportunities

📰 Knox County Schools Spearheads Legal Battle for Student Safety on Social Media Platforms

📣 Business Spotlight: Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery: Crafting Heirlooms in Knoxville

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

Little Explorers Childcare Coming Soon to West Hills

🌟 Discover Little Explorers Childcare and Montessori Preschool – Coming Soon! 🌟

Embark on a journey of growth and discovery with Little Explorers Childcare and Montessori Preschool, where young minds flourish in a safe, loving, and nurturing environment. Their doors will soon open to children aged 1 to 6 years, offering a holistic approach to early education.

🏠 Located at 7828 South Northshore Drive, their center will operate Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, ensuring flexibility and convenience for busy families.

At Little Explorers, they believe in fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity in every child, guiding them through personalized learning experiences rooted in the Montessori philosophy. From stimulating activities to compassionate care, they're dedicated to nurturing the unique talents and interests of each little explorer.

Visit their website to learn more about their programs, philosophy, and enrollment opportunities, or reach out to Dawn at (865) 562-1222. Adventure awaits at Little Explorers Childcare and Montessori Preschool – where every day is a new discovery! 🌱✨

Knoxville Man, 77, Sentenced to 10 Years for Soliciting Minors and Obstructing Justice

A 77-year-old Knoxville resident, Joseph Raymond Cacciatore, has been sentenced to a decade in prison following his admission of guilt in a case involving the exploitation and solicitation of minors. Offenses included attempted especially aggravated sexual exploitation, multiple counts of solicitation of a minor, coercion of a witness, and unauthorized observation.

The court heard how Cacciatore engaged in illicit activities, soliciting two young girls for sexual acts and secretly recording one without consent. His attempts to obstruct justice were further exposed when, after being released on bond, he covertly installed a camera in a neighbor's residence. The situation escalated when Cacciatore, from behind bars, attempted to enlist a cellmate associated with the Aryan Nation to intimidate witnesses and the victims, aiming to derail their participation in the legal process.

This case draws attention to the persistent efforts of local law enforcement and the judicial system in combating sexual exploitation and protecting the rights and well-being of minors.

Knox County Schools Spearheads Legal Battle for Student Safety on Social Media Platforms

Knox County Schools joins a group of Tennessee educational districts in taking legal action against several major social media companies. The move, aimed at securing better protection for students, underscores the districts' demands for greater accountability and enhanced safety measures on these platforms.

The legal filings target a range of social platforms such as Meta (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram), TikTok, Snapchat, Google (including its service YouTube), and WhatsApp.

These actions stem from concerns over an escalating mental health crisis among students, attributed to inadequate safety features, monitoring, and cooperation from these companies in safeguarding young users.

Join the Fun at the O'Connor Senior Center's Annual Pancake Fest this Friday

The John T. O’Connor Senior Center in Knoxville is hosting its Annual Pancake Fest on Friday, March 22nd, from 7am to 12pm at 611 Winona Street. This event will feature all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, and drinks for just $5.00, along with entertainment and appearances by local celebrities including Mayors Indya Kincannon and Glenn Jacobs.

The Pancake Fest is a fundraiser to support the center's health, wellness, fitness, recreational, and educational programs for older adults. Tickets are available online or at the center, and for more information, you can call (865) 523-1135.

Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery: Crafting Heirlooms in Knoxville

Teeming with creativity, Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery (AWADG) stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and craftsmanship of custom woodworking. Celebrating its first year of operation, AWADG has already made significant strides under the guidance of Elizabeth Grant, a visionary with over 30 years of experience in interior design, building, and home furnishings.

Elizabeth's journey into the world of custom woodworking was driven by her lifelong passion for crafting unique and meaningful pieces. At AWADG, this passion is brought to life by a team of local woodworkers who dedicate their skills to creating heirloom-quality furniture, cabinetry, and architectural design elements. The on-site woodworking shop not only serves as the heart of production but also as a bridge connecting clients directly with the artisans crafting their future heirlooms.

What sets AWADG apart is its commitment to producing one-of-a-kind, custom-built furniture and woodwork, tailored to the individual needs and visions of its clients. Working closely with interior designers, architects, builders, and homeowners, AWADG ensures that every piece is a reflection of personal style and excellence. The showroom/gallery further complements this by showcasing masterful craftsmanship alongside art by local and regional artists.

Elizabeth's connection to the Knoxville community shines through her extensive volunteer work and fundraising efforts for local organizations and causes. From chairing designer showhouses to supporting Second Harvest food collections and the KBGA Green Thumb Gala, her commitment to giving back is unwavering.

AWADG is bustling with activity, offering unique events such as a Soapstone Pendant Carving workshop and preparing to celebrate its one-year anniversary with an Open House and special discounts. First Fridays at AWADG are not to be missed, featuring demonstrations, special events, and literary celebrations in honor of April's reading and literacy acknowledgments.

For those seeking to infuse their spaces with the warmth and timeless beauty of custom woodwork, or to partake in the vibrant community events AWADG hosts, Elizabeth Grant is your go-to contact. Reach her at [email protected] or by phone at (865) 686-5520. Discover more about the exquisite work and upcoming events at AWADG by following them on Facebook at Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery and on Instagram @artisanwoodworkingknoxville.

Artisan Woodworking & Design Gallery is more than a woodworking shop; it's a hub of creativity, craftsmanship, and community in Knoxville, dedicated to enriching homes and lives with the timeless beauty of custom woodwork.

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

Community:

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

Spring Has Sprung Shopping Event at the Painted Perch & Co: shop sales and win prizes on Friday-Saturday, March 22nd-23rd from 10am - 6pm, 9715 Kingston Pike, More Info

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

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

46th Annual CFA Cat Show: Over 200 pedigreed cats + household pets judged in 10 rings, Cost: Adults: $10, Kids & Seniors: $7, Family of 4: $30, Saturday-Sunday, March 23rd-24th at the Jacob Building, Chilhowee Park, 3301 Magnolia Avenue

Game Nights at Fountain City Social: on Mondays, March 25th from 6pm-8pm, 4842 Harvest Mills Way, Everyone welcome, More Info

Food & Drink:

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!

Music:

Big Ears Festival: Music, Film, and Visual Arts Festival, Downtown, Thursday-Sunday, March 21st-24th,  More Info

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