In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Knoxville Weather - Cloudy with a High of 56

🗓️ The Great Cookie Tasting Event with the Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians

🗓️ This Weekend - Home Show at Knoxville Expo Center

📰 Local Lawmakers Push for Expanded Mental Health Resources Amid Growing Needs

📰 March Madness at MEDIC - Socks, Gifts, and Lifesaving Donations

🗓️ Upcoming Events

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

📣 We Want to Spotlight Your Business! Apply Here

✅ Advertising Opportunities
 

This Weekend - Home Show at Knoxville Expo Center

The Home Builders Association of Greater Knoxville (HBAGK) Home Show is this weekend! It is the go-to event for all your home improvement needs, from remodeling to new construction.

It features builders and industry professionals - more than any other home show. This year, enjoy free admission to meet experts, plan your projects, and support the local building community.

The event takes place at the Knoxville Expo Center, 5411 Clinton Highway, on Saturday, March 23rd from 10am - 6pm and Sunday, March 24th from 11am - 5pm,, with free parking available. For detailed information, visit their website.

Local Lawmakers Push for Expanded Mental Health Resources Amid Growing Needs

Local lawmakers are advocating for enhanced mental health resources in East Tennessee, highlighting an urgent need for more comprehensive care services. This advocacy follows a report by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, which examined the necessity for a new state psychiatric facility in the region.

The request for this report came in light of the 2011 closure of Lakeshore Mental Health Institute, which had previously served the area and whose responsibilities were transferred to local providers and the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute in Chattanooga.

Despite the efforts to provide mental health services since Lakeshore's closure, officials acknowledge that current provisions are inadequate to meet the growing demands. The discussion on increasing mental health resources also coincides with debates over state funding allocations, including criticism over a proposed bridge project in Knoxville. Yet, no specific plans for a new state mental health hospital have been announced.

March Madness at MEDIC - Socks, Gifts, and Lifesaving Donations

MEDIC Regional Blood Center is running three special campaigns this March, including giving away basketball-themed socks to donors, offering e-gift cards to O blood type and platelet donors, and a "Skip the Gift" option where instead of receiving socks, $5 is donated to Ronald McDonald House on the donor's behalf.

Donors can schedule their appointments through MEDIC's website, or call (865) 524-3074. MEDIC is the main supplier of blood products for 25 hospitals in 23 counties and emphasizes the local impact of donations, which support communities in East Tennessee and Southeastern Kentucky. The campaign highlights the importance of blood donations, which are critical for emergency preparedness and ongoing medical needs.

The Great Cookie Tasting Event with the Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians

The Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians are thrilled to announce their inaugural "Great Cookie Tasting." Join them for an exclusive adult evening at Yee-Haw Brewing Co., 745 N. Broadway, on Tuesday, March 26th, from 6pm-8pm.

Indulge in a delightful pairing of savory beers with four signature Girl Scout cookies, complemented by a selection of light appetizers, all for just $20. Your participation not only promises a memorable night but also contributes to a noble cause.

The proceeds will aid in closing the funding gap for Girl Scout experiences, enhancing enrichment programs, and supporting our regional camps and community troops. Secure your ticket now and be part of this unique tasting experience!

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

Community:

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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