TENNESSEE, USA — In a year marked by change even as the COVID-19 pandemic still loomed, we wanted to celebrate by taking a look back at some of our area's most Straight From The Heart moments.
2021 was certainly interesting, but we made it through together.
These are some of the moments that brought a smile to our faces, made us laugh and reminded us what it means to be a Volunteer.
January
A Knoxville toddler became a viral sensation for her pure excitement over food.
February
A 2-year-old Vol fan did not let naptime get in the way of cheering for his favorite team.
March
When a bridge collapse in Sevier County left families homeless, a non-profit stepped in to help.
April
A terminally ill man surprised the staff at a Gatlinburg steakhouse with a $1,000 tip.
May
VFL Peyton Manning put some heat on the ceremonial first pitch at a UT baseball game.
June
For the first time since 2005, the Vols made it to the Super Regionals and even flew to Omaha for the College World Series.
July
A Knoxville tattoo artist didn't let vandals spoil her dream of opening her own business.
August
A single mother started a home repair business to help women and the elderly
September
Three Dolly Parton songs landed on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list.
October
A Blount County Elementary School student modeled in New York Fashion Week.
November
A West Knoxville couple went viral on TikTok after realizing their new frosted glass window wasn't that private.
December
An anonymous donor bought a flight so an Anderson County student could have a chance to see his mom.