Author: jmuir

The Dialogue with Robin Watts

Robin Watts
Robin Watts

This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 243rd installment visiting with Robin Watts, owner and therapist at Robin’s Nest which is a holistic wellness and counseling practice that provides integrated mental health and complementary wellness services for individuals, couples, and families.

Describe more about what Robin’s Nest does. The purpose of Robin’s Nest is to address the whole person through integrated mental health and wellness services. We are in business to bridge the gap between emotional health, physical well-being, and relational stability by providing accessible, ethical, and evidence-based care within one coordinated environment.

Robin’s Nest reduces barriers to care, normalizes seeking support, and equips individuals and families with practical tools for sustainable change. By combining clinical excellence with holistic wellness services, we empower clients to move from survival patterns toward resilience, stability, and purposeful living.

At its core, Robin’s Nest exists to protect peace, restore hope, and strengthen families—one person at a time.

We offer trauma-informed counseling, specialized therapeutic modalities, and coordinated care alongside services such as assisted stretch, massage therapy, personal training, and other regulation-focused supports.

Our model brings clinical excellence and physical wellness together under one roof, allowing clients to address emotional, relational, and stress-related concerns in a comprehensive and collaborative environment. Robin’s Nest serves children, adolescents, and adults by creating individualized care plans that promote healing, resilience, and long-term well-being.

How did you get started? Robin’s Nest began from a desire to provide more integrated and accessible care than traditional models typically allow. After years of working in the mental health field and witnessing the limitations of siloed services, I recognized the need for a space that addressed emotional, relational, and physical well-being in a coordinated way.

The practice was founded to bridge gaps in care, reduce barriers for clients, and create an environment where individuals and families could receive comprehensive support under one roof. What began as a counseling vision gradually expanded into a holistic wellness model that reflects both clinical expertise and a commitment to sustainable, whole-person healing.

Describe your customers. Robin’s Nest serves individuals and families seeking integrated support for emotional, relational, and stress-related concerns. Our clients include children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and chronic stress. Many are professionals, parents, or students who are motivated to improve their mental health and overall well-being in a structured and supportive environment.

In addition to counseling clients, we also serve individuals pursuing preventive wellness services such as assisted stretch, massage therapy, and personal training to manage stress, improve physical functioning, and support long-term health. Our customers value high-quality, ethical care and appreciate a coordinated, whole-person approach delivered in a welcoming and professional setting.

What is your background? The background and skills necessary to operate Robin’s Nest were developed through formal education, professional licensure, and ongoing specialized training across multiple disciplines. As a licensed mental health professional, I have completed the required graduate education, supervised clinical experience, and state licensure requirements to provide therapy services.

In addition, all massage therapists at Robin’s Nest are state-licensed and meet regulatory requirements for professional practice. Other team members maintain certifications in their respective specialties, ensuring that each service offered is delivered by a qualified and credentialed professional.

Beyond foundational credentials, our team engages in continuing education, advanced modality training, and ongoing professional development to maintain ethical standards, clinical excellence, and best practices in integrated care. This combination of licensure, certification, and continued training ensures that Robin’s Nest operates with both competence and accountability.

What do you enjoy most about this service? What I enjoy most about running Robin’s Nest is the opportunity to create a space where meaningful change happens every day. Seeing individuals and families move from overwhelm to stability, from trauma to healing, and from isolation to connection is deeply rewarding.

I also value building a team of licensed and certified professionals who share a commitment to ethical, high-quality care. Creating a collaborative environment where clinical excellence and holistic wellness work together allows us to serve the community in a way that feels both purposeful and impactful.

Beyond the services themselves, I enjoy shaping the culture of the practice—ensuring it reflects integrity, compassion, and sustainable growth while remaining responsive to the needs of those we serve.

2026 Best of Blount Awards Announced

Tony Crisp and Justin Brown

Eight outstanding individuals and businesses who devote their time, talent, and resources to making Blount County a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive were celebrated at the Blount Partnership’s Best of Blount Awards, presented by Foothills Milling Company and held at the Airport Hilton. The event was supported by sponsors including ICC International, AMR, DENSO, Millsaps and Bennett CPAs, Hoo La La, Hilton, Above the Rest Balloons and Events, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, Regions Bank, NHC Farragut, Center Stage Beauty Academy, CBBC Bank, Pellissippi State, YMCA of East Tennessee, Company Distilling, Treasures Jewelers, and Cirrus Aircraft.

More than 600 people attended the evening, hosted by television and radio personality Frank Murphy.

“This was a special night to honor those who give so much of themselves to the Blount County community,” said Blount Partnership President/CEO Bryan Daniels. “These individuals and businesses work tirelessly to ensure this community stays strong and vibrant.”

The program highlighted a “year in review” video for the Blount Partnership and paid tribute to Clara McNutt, Elton Jones, Mike Davis, and Bryan Cable—each recognized as Blount County Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Members for their exceptional service and long-standing dedication to the chamber and the community.

Brenda Sellers received the Philanthropist of the Year Award for her lifelong commitment to supporting Blount County residents and nonprofits.

Dandy Lions Gifts was named Small Business of the Year, while Realty Executives of Maryville earned Large Business of the Year.

Trinity Dental received the Community Impact Award for its work addressing community needs, including providing vital support to those facing dental challenges.

The Tourism Award went to Brian Johnston of Smoky Mountain Festivals – Big Foot Festival.

Archer Academy was honored with the Bright Future Award, and Courtney McGhee was recognized as Young Professional of the Year.

Maryville Police Chief Tony Crisp received the First Responder Award for his leadership. Following the presentation of a $5,000 check from Cirrus Aircraft—part of the company’s initiative to honor those who assist in emergencies—Chief Crisp donated the funds to Maryville Police Officer Justin Brown, who sustained severe injuries in the line of duty while escorting Vice President J.D. Vance’s motorcade last fall.

2026 Best of Blount Award Winners

Philanthropist of the Year – Brenda Sellers

Small Business of the Year – Dandy Lions Gifts

Large Business of the Year – Realty Executives of Maryville

Bright Future Award – Archer Academy

First Responder Award – Maryville Police Chief Tony Crisp

Community Impact Award – Trinity Dental

Young Professional of the Year – Courtney McGhee

Tourism Impact Award – Smoky Mountain Festivals – Big Foot Festival

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro Named to OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America

Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has been named to OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America, earning the distinction as the only restaurant in East Tennessee to appear on the national list.

Based on more than 14 million verified diner reviews, the honor recognizes restaurants that consistently deliver exceptional food, service, and atmosphere. For Dancing Bear, the recognition reflects a long-standing commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences rather than chasing trends.

“There’s a lot of noise in the restaurant world,” said Houston Oldham, VP of Operations, “but what really matters is the table in front of us. Romance lives in the details—the way you’re welcomed, the pace of the evening, the quiet moments that happen naturally.

Whether it’s a proposal, an anniversary, or a Tuesday night dinner, those details are what keep people coming back.”

Led by Executive Chef Je\ Carter, the Bistro is known for refined Appalachian cuisine served in a warm, intimate setting that resonates with both visitors and locals alike.

Located in Townsend, Tennessee—the Peaceful Side of the Smokies—Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro continues to be a destination for memorable dining rooted in Appalachian hospitality.

UT Federal Credit Union Named One of America’s Best Credit Unions

UTFCU building

UT Federal Credit Union (UTFCU) has been named one of America’s Best Credit Unions 2026 by Newsweek, a national recognition celebrating financial institutions that demonstrate strong performance, member satisfaction, and community impact.

UT Federal Credit Union was one of only 12 credit unions recognized in Tennessee, underscoring both its strength as an institution and commitment to member-obsessed service.

Newsweek, in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group, evaluated thousands of financial institutions nationwide using measures including the Texas Ratio (a measure of a bank’s credit quality), net loans and leases, profitability, and press coverage. The analysis also incorporated an independent survey of more than 71,000 U.S. consumers, along with millions of social media and mobile app reviews.

“It’s gratifying to see that our mission is truly showing up in the way we serve our members and communities,” said Kenyon Warren, President and CEO of UT Federal Credit Union. “Our first priority is delivering meaningful value to our members, empowering our employees, and building trusted relationships.”

Guided by its mission to improve lives, financially and beyond, UT Federal Credit Union continues its strategic growth, strengthening local communities and reinforcing its role as a trusted financial institution.

The Dialogue with Andy Salyards

Dr. Jill Salyards and Andy Salyards.

This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 242nd installment visiting with Andy Salyards, director of operations for Refine Dermatology which specializes in general, skin cancer, and aesthetic dermatology for all ages, including pediatrics.

Dr. Jill Salyards and Andy Salyards.

Describe more about Refine Dermatology. Refine Dermatology is a doctor owned dermatology practice that values our patient’s time and emphasizes hospitality. We started Refine Dermatology in April of 2022 and had only 7 patients our first week (one of which was my dad). With God’s grace we’ve been able to steadily grow and be intentional about our culture and emphasize the importance of our values – Responsive, Efficient, Friendliness, Informative, Nurturing, Ethical.

What is your background? My wife, Jill, graduated number 1 out of 230 in her class in 2012 from medical school and finished her dermatology residency in 2016. I completed an MBA program in 2009 and over the following 12 years started 12 businesses. In 2022 we were able to combine Jill’s medical expertise and lessons learned from working for larger practices with my experience as an entrepreneur.

Describe your clients. The range of patients we see is vast but we specialize in mother’s of young to teenage children. Most of the time the mother in the household is having to coordinate schedules and appointments so we do our best to make everything as convenient as possible for them. That’s also reflected in the types of treatments we specialize in. Aesthetic dermatology also has a wide range. We prefer for our patients to maintain a youthful appearance while still appearing natural.

What are three things you wish you knew when you started? I honestly don’t think I have an answer for this. Being able to open a business with my wife was an awesome experience to grow another aspect of our relationship. Being able to learn about another industry and be challenged was exciting. Meeting people in the community and seeing real improvement is rewarding. I wouldn’t undo any of the bumps or obstacles or learning curves we’ve had to navigate.

What do you enjoy about your practice? Working with my wife, working with our staff that is engaged in what we’re doing and that believes it’s worth doing. Having to grow my trust in God’s will for this practice versus pursuing our own ambitions.

Pictured are Dr. Jill Salyards and Andy Salyards.

Tremont Writers Conference now accepting applications

Tremont Writers Conference

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is pleased to announce the fourth annual Tremont Writers Conference, an intensive five-day retreat for writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry coordinated in conjunction with Smokies Life. Applications to participate may be submitted online now through May 15 at writers.gsmit.org.

Held Wednesday, Oct. 21, through Sunday, Oct. 25, the conference on the Tremont campus invites participants to brainstorm projects and fine-tune their work alongside award-winning author workshop leaders and professional park educators in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This year’s faculty members include guest writer and “New York Times” best-selling author Ron Rash; recent Kentucky poet laureate and memoirist Crystal Wilkinson (leading the nonfiction cohort); celebrated playwright and Knoxville poet laureate Linda Parsons (poetry cohort leader), and award-winning Cherokee novelist Kelli Jo Ford (leading the fiction cohort).

“This is a rare opportunity for writers to work closely with authors they admire in a setting as immersive as it gets: the Smokies,” said Frances Figart, conference co-director and creative services director for Smokies Life. “We keep the retreat intentionally small — choosing writers who are deeply engaged with their work and excited to challenge themselves in a new setting. It’s that level of collective commitment that bolsters the creative process and makes the experience so productive for our writers.”  

Faculty members will lead daily morning group workshops and also mentor writers in optional one-on-one sessions throughout the retreat. Each afternoon, experienced Tremont naturalists will guide participants in activities meant to create a deeper connection to the region’s cultural and natural history. Evenings will conclude with group dinners, fellowship and readings by the featured authors. Meals and lodging are provided.

“Like all of Tremont’s programs, roughing it (a little!) is part of the experience,” said co-director Jeremy Lloyd, who serves as Tremont’s manager of field and college programs. “Most of the workshops take place outdoors, where we can take in and be inspired by our beautiful natural surroundings — with fewer distractions from the modern world. This format is part of what makes the Tremont Writers Conference unique, paving the way for more meaningful connections with workshop leaders and fostering a sense of community among participants.”

Acceptance to conference workshops is based on evaluation of submitted writing samples, with all writers notified of their acceptance status by mid-July. One conference participant will be selected to receive the Debbie Ellis Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. The scholarship is funded by Ron Ellis in memory of his late wife, Debbie, who channeled her love of the Tremont area into her writing, including “Elkmont Settlement: A Microcosm of Appalachian Challenges,” in “Perspectives in History” (Northern Kentucky University, Vol. XXIII, 2007-2008).

Also available to select 2026 participants is the $5,000 Laurel Rematore Tremont Writers Conference Scholarship, distributed between three or more chosen writers whose attendance is dependent on financial aid. The scholarship’s namesake, the former CEO of Smokies Life, strongly believed in the power of the arts and was integral to the retreat’s founding.

Applications for the October conference should be submitted no later than May 15. Additional information about the Tremont Writers Conference and complete 2026 application guidelines can be found at writers.gsmit.org.

Tremont Writers Conference is created, managed and produced as a joint partnership between Smokies Life and Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. It brings writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry to an ancient and wild setting, where they can receive feedback from established authors, connect with writing peers and find renewal and inspiration. In addition to creative workshops, writers will join experienced Tremont naturalists for guided explorations that spark curiosity and wonder.

The Dialogue with Stan Norris

Stan Norris

This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 241st installment visiting with Stan Norris, assistant tournament director for the Smoky Mountain Championship presented by Food City.

Tell me about the Smoky Mountain Championship. I am part of an event management company that specializes in running professional golf tournaments and events across the country and specifically one in Blount County at Green Meadow Country Club. We strive to operate high quality events with a positive financial and charitable impact for the communities that we serve.

How did you get started? I got started as an intern with one of our tournaments in Knoxville in 2014 and 2016 and was hired by the PGA Tour but paired with our group in a training program on how to run professional golf tournaments from 2017-2020 and then was officially hired by our company in July 2020.

Describe your clients. Our client is any business who is looking to build relationships with clients or prospects outside of the office, reward employees, or who want to promote their brand in the area through our professional golf tournament.

What are three things you wish you knew when you started? How detailed you have to be to run a successful event, how different each day is working in this business, and how much time goes into finding the right people to partner with for our events.