Friends,

What an amazing evening! Last night, I joined thousands of fellow baseball fans to celebrate the grand opening of Covenant Health Park and the return of the Knoxville Smokies ([link removed]) to downtown Knoxville.

I loved seeing the bronze replicas of all-star Knoxville Giants Negro League players ([link removed]) , the mural of the Great Smoky Mountains, the "Knoxville" sign on the grand staircase, the beautiful wood ceilings, the Tennessee-shaped scoreboard, the water tower.

I loved walking around the entire concourse, waving to people on their balconies in Yardley Flats, crossing the bridge over First Creek, hearing trains blow their horn as they passed.

I loved seeing our Public Works crews go the extra mile to make sure buildings were inspected, streets paved, sidewalks set, KAT buses running, and certificates of occupancy issued!

I loved seeing our Knoxville firefighters and police officers out and about to keep everyone safe--and the inaugural appearance of KPD's Mounted Patrol, with Percheron steeds Phyl and Waggoner.

I loved seeing Lincoln, the American Bald Eagle, make a few unexpected swoops ([link removed]) around the field at the end of the National Anthem. I loved seeing the Smokies play hard and win!

Most of all, I loved seeing how happy this communal experience made everyone there, and knowing that thousands more will enjoy this public park for sports, concerts and gatherings for many years to come.

It’s easy to destroy things. It takes vision, a lot of work -- and trust -- to create. When we work together we can do big things!

Indya

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* No Place for the Weary Kind: Women of the Smokies by Courtney Lix
* Season 2 of The Last of Us on HBO

* ** Residents invited to State of the City on April 25 ([link removed])

* ** Share input on the future of Parks and Rec ([link removed])

* ** Outlandish Oudoor Adventure Festival set for May 2 & 3 at Ijams Nature Center ([link removed])

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