 RET July 2026 Newsletter
 Caring for Ourselves, Each Other, and Our Pets in the Summer Heat
Summer in East Tennessee has a way of sneaking up on us. One moment we’re enjoying a gentle June breeze, and the next we’re stepping outside into a wall of heat that feels like it’s wrapped itself around the whole valley. These hotter months ask something of us — a little more awareness, a little more patience, and a lot more care for ourselves and the beings who share our lives.
Most of us know the basics: drink water, stay cool, take breaks. But summer self‑care is more than a checklist. It’s a mindset — a gentle reminder that our bodies, our neighbors, and our pets all feel the strain of heat in different ways. And when we slow down enough to notice, we create space for compassion to grow.
For ourselves, it starts with listening. Heat has a way of wearing us down quietly. We may feel a little more tired, a little more irritable, or a little less motivated without realizing why. Giving ourselves permission to rest isn’t laziness; it’s wisdom. Whether it’s choosing shade over sun, taking a slower walk, or simply sitting with a cold drink and letting the world spin without us for a moment, these small acts of kindness toward ourselves matter.
Caring for each other in the summer can be just as simple. A quick check‑in with a friend who lives alone. Offering a ride to someone who doesn’t have reliable transportation. Sharing extra water bottles at a community event. Even small gestures — a text, a wave, a moment of connection — can make someone feel seen and supported. Heat can be isolating, but kindness cuts through it.
And then there are our pets — the ones who depend on us to notice what they cannot say. Dogs, cats, and other animals feel heat more intensely than we do, and they often hide discomfort until it becomes dangerous. A few extra precautions can make all the difference: keeping walks to the cooler hours, checking pavement temperature with the back of your hand, offering fresh water throughout the day, and making sure they always have a cool place to rest. Even indoor pets can struggle when temperatures rise, so watching for signs of overheating — heavy panting, lethargy, or restlessness — is essential.
As we move through these hot months, let’s remember that caring for ourselves, each other, and our animals isn’t just about safety — it’s about community. It’s about choosing gentleness in a season that can be harsh. It’s about noticing the needs around us and responding with warmth.
 Blount County First Wednesday Meetup
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 — 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Location: Peaceful Side Brewery, 106 Everett Ave, Maryville, TN 37804 A relaxed evening of conversation, good drinks, and friendly faces. New folks always welcome.
 July Book Club — Nobody’s Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre
Sunday, July 12, 2026 — 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Zoom Only Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s memoir is both heartbreaking and fiercely brave — a story of survival, resilience, and the determination to expose wrongdoing no matter the cost. Her life was profoundly shaped by the abuse and exploitation she suffered at the hands of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, whose actions placed her in the circumstances she spent years fighting to escape.
Written before her death in 2025, Giuffre insisted her story be published so her truth would endure. Her memoir stands as a powerful call to protect victims, confront systems that enable abuse, and ensure that those who cause harm are held accountable.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85477471003?pwd=IjXCbsDRn8aDbQ3N1pblMTxPRVEtao.1
 July Third Sunday — In‑Person Meeting
Sunday, July 19, 2026 — 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM Location: Pellissippi State Community College, Hardin Valley Campus, Goins Building, Cafeteria Annex We’re excited to welcome women’s suffrage expert Wanda Sobieski for a lively and engaging presentation on “The Showdown” — the dramatic confrontation over women’s voting rights at the Old Knoxville Courthouse. Wanda will also guide us through the broader story of the suffrage movement and the people who pushed it forward with courage and persistence.
Coffee and other hot beverages will be available, and you’re welcome to bring a snack to share.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82390944774?pwd=3jHbromfTJlbrt6TFt8n1652Ag06J6.1
 Knox County Fourth Wednesday Meetup
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 — 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Location: Corner 16 Restaurant, 9637 Kroger Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922 A friendly, come‑as‑you‑are evening of conversation, good food, and relaxed company. New folks always welcome.
 July Field Trip — Owl Ridge Raptor Center
Saturday, July 25, 2026 — 8:30 AM Location: Owl Ridge Raptor Center, Washburn, TN This month’s field trip takes us on a summer adventure to the Owl Ridge Raptor Center, a remarkable sanctuary where injured and recovering birds of prey are given a second chance at life. If you’ve never been close enough to feel the presence of a hawk or owl watching you with those deep, ancient eyes, you’re in for something special.
We will meet at 8:30 AM in the parking lot behind the gas station at the Northshore & Pellissippi Kroger to organize carpooling before setting off to 614 Collins Ridge Rd, Washburn, TN. From there, we’ll enjoy a morning surrounded by feathers, talons, and the quiet dignity of these incredible birds. After our visit, we’ll continue the outing with lunch together before returning to Knoxville — a perfect chance to cool off, chat, and share favorite moments from the morning.
This trip is great for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys learning about wildlife conservation in a hands‑on, memorable way.
 July Reflections — Zoom Meeting
Sunday, July 26, 2026 — 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Zoom Only A thoughtful look at how Baby Boomer presidents shaped today’s “us/them” political climate. We’ll use a short article to spark conversation and explore how these patterns show up in our own lives.
This will be a Zoom‑based discussion, open to anyone who wants to join the conversation.
Article for reflection: https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2026/06/14/trump-bush-clinton-generation-legacy-00956933
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84135377507?pwd=trVuWiQkvqyLzWmeBQks7Ta449ipWI.1
A Summer Reminder: Sunscreen Matters More Than We Think
As the temperatures climb and we spend more time outdoors, it’s easy to assume we’re doing enough to protect our skin. Most of us remember the obvious spots — face, arms, maybe the back of the neck — but summer has a way of revealing the places we overlook.
Recently, the editor of our newsletter had a full skin check with a dermatologist. Everything looked good overall, but one thing stood out: a distinct V‑shaped area of sun damage just below the neck. The surprising part? He always covers his chest when he’s outside. The dermatologist explained that even brief exposure — walking to the car, stepping outside to chat, running a quick errand — can add up over the years. Clothing shifts, collars dip, and the sun finds its way in.
It was a good reminder for all of us: spray or lotion sunscreen on the chest and upper neck, even if we think those areas are covered. The same goes for the tops of ears, the back of the hands, and the part in our hair — all places people commonly miss. Sunscreen isn’t just about avoiding burns. It’s about protecting our future selves from the long‑term effects of UV exposure. A few extra seconds with the sunscreen bottle can make a real difference.
 Membership Dues Reminder
As we move into the second half of the year, this is a great time to renew your RET membership dues. Annual dues are $60, with a reduced rate of $30 for students and low‑income members. Your support helps us cover meeting costs and keep our programs accessible to everyone.
 Around Knoxville & Blount County — July Events Your Members May Enjoy
Levitt AMP Maryville Music Series
Free outdoor concerts with relaxed crowds, great local performers, and plenty of seating options. A perfect low‑key summer outing for members who enjoy music without the intensity of large festivals.
Carl Gombert: Radiant Geometry — Clayton Center for the Arts
A visually engaging art exhibit featuring bold patterns and thoughtful design. Indoors, air‑conditioned, and easy to navigate — ideal for members who enjoy art, culture, and conversation‑friendly environments.
Festival on the 4th — World’s Fair Park (Knoxville)
Knoxville’s signature Independence Day celebration with music, food trucks, shaded seating areas, and evening fireworks. A festive but comfortable community event that works well for seniors and families alike.
Blount County Library — Summer Cinema Series
Weekly film screenings tied to the “Unearth a Story” theme and America 250. Quiet, accessible, and perfect for members who enjoy reflective, discussion‑friendly movies in a comfortable setting.
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