2018 – Page 4 – Out and About in Sevierville

Sevierville Commons Farmers Market and Movie Night Downtown: June 15th, 2018

June 17, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

I rushed up Court Avenue and then to the gazebo area in order to connect with the farmers market last Friday. On my way home from a HIIT class, there were only a few minutes to spend there, but fresh produce was calling my name. As it turned out, I would return downtown at dusk to see what was going on with the Sevierville Commons sponsored movie. It was a busy day in downtown Sevierville so follow along to see what was bringing people downtown from morning to evening.

Tomatoes are in! Love the summertime for this reason. Hendersons always has good ones.

Danish and bagels for the sweet tooth. She often sells out by noon so get there early.

This cute little game on sale by one vendor was a bargain! I will get some next week —if there are any left.

We were able to sample one of the small Cherokee Purple tomatoes from this vendor; consequently, I took several home. Lots of flavor in a small package.

This is on my dining room table right now. Hard to pass up a bouquet from Sevier Blumen.

Around 8:30 p.m. it was almost dusk so I decided to go by and see the crowd for the outdoor movie. The selection for the evening was the “Lion King.”

We have no drive-in movie theaters in the county, but this was almost the next best thing. What a nice evening to sit outside to watch a movie with family and friends almost within the shadow of the courthouse.

Snacks were available for sale from the Relay For Life of Sevier County group. They said that they had sold out of certain things by the time that I got there so get there early next time!

There was a very good turnout for this movie. Thanks to Sevierville Commons for the opportunity to enjoy something free downtown with families.

I found some precious, hand-made items for sale at this table sponsored the Orbit Village Project. The figures of zebras, giraffes, and other African animals fit perfectly into the “Lion King” theme. I bought a giraffe figure that will sit on my desk to collect mail.

I have heard of the Orbit Village Project before and enjoyed looking at the information boards. What a wonderful work it is for everyone involved.

Finally, darkness settled and it was time for the show. Everyone seemed to settle in.

And then the magic began…

First Visit to Downtown Sevierville Farmers Market 2018 (and a sneak peek at Rocking the Commons)

June 9, 2018outandaboutinsevierville1 Comment

It was my first visit to the Farmers Market in downtown Sevierville this year. I was running late so it was a quick tour around for me this time. Many of your favorite vendors were there. Follow me to take a quick tour here.

The first reason I go to the market is for fresh produce so Henderson’s is hard to beat.

The lady who sells bread and fresh bagels is back. These are amazing!

One of my favorite vendors is back with the handmade figurines. Remember last year when she designed some cat and dog figurines for me to give as gifts? She has a few new things for the holidays, so check them out next week.

I am avoiding sugar right now, but imagine these products are wonderful on a morning biscuit. She also does the T-shirt quilts so ask her about them if you are interested.

This lady is one of the friendliest vendors on Friday so go say “hello.” She had some ‘special helpers’ too. Everyone needs soaps and scrubs and hers are so reasonably priced.

I asked about the charcoal ingredient and she replied that it was good for problem skin and complexions. It helps remove toxins too.

These little cakes were so light. The sweet potato butter adds the moisture. Sounds so good!

I got close to the end of the market time so I didn’t really run into a lot of people. Will try to be earlier next week. Next, I crossed the street to see a sneak peek of the Rocking the Commons event, sponsored by the Sevierville Arts Commons.

These rockers are gorgeous! They will be auctioned off today at 4:00.

Go Vols !

Each rocker is one of a kind. Collector’s item!

Some lucky people will have a one of a kind rocking chair to enjoy on the porch this summer. See you downtown and out and about in Sevierville.

Some Warriors Don’t Carry Weapons: Relay For Life of Sevier County Celebrates 20 Years of Hope

June 5, 2018June 5, 2018outandaboutinsevierville1 Comment

There are many groups here, but I am sure none work harder than Relay for Life of Sevier County. Relay For Life is an organization with the mission to raise money for cancer research and programming. The Sevier County Relay For Life group has raised over $3.8 million dollars for the American Cancer Society. Last Saturday was a 20 Year Celebration for the local organization—and it was a big one. Follow me downtown Sevierville to see activities during the 12 hour event.

First, I am going to share some of my favorite things for the general public. Then, I will share some things that I saw that will hit close to home for cancer survivors and caregivers. There is something for everyone at a Relay For Life event.

I was happy to see plenty of parking and chairs, many in the shade. There was a schedule of events posted on Facebook and in the Mountain Press featuring free music and non-stop entertainment. Anyone can come down and enjoy the outdoors with the courthouse and Dolly statue in the backdrop.

Citizens National Bank offered treats and the thrill of a dunking booth. This lady said that the water was a little chilly at the beginning of the day. What a good sport and supporter of Relay For Life.

There were games and prizes. Surely, this team had the best smiles!

Sophia and I had lunch from the Norma Dan Monkees team menu. Grilled right there! They chose ‘monkees’ as a name mascot because it is upbeat …and they are just fun!

Serving burgers to benefit Relay For Life of Sevier County. They were great!

More games from Tennessee State Bank. The candy pull game looked fun. Popcorn too.

The crowds were huge at Dollywood so this family stopped by downtown and took advantage of some of the activities. Face painting was very popular.

More games!

Inflatables were a big draw for families.

Low carb snacks. A huge plate for $2 !

There was a large selection of silent auction items. I am bringing more $ next year to do some birthday and Christmas shopping.

There are only a few Smoky Mountain-Opoly games left. Sheriff Seals supported the Relay For Life event in person, and as a sponsor.

Author, Missy Barrett, speaking with Tennessee Representative Dale Carr.

I heard really good music all day. The band pictured above was quite popular. “Priscilla and Little Rickee” came from Chattanooga to play for the Relay For Life event.

Late in the afternoon, past event Chairs and members of the first steering committee were recognized. These leaders have championed the fight against cancer to help others in Sevier County live better lives.

With the courthouse in the background, Relay For Life of Sevier County teams receive a check $15,000 from the Smoky Mountain Wine Trail from the Pink Wines and Stomp Out Breast Cancer Walk. An amazing donation!

I enjoyed the live auction under the direction of Dale Carr. He skillfully guided the bidding until the highest dollar was found.

To see a live auction is truly an amazing thing.

As the sun set, I was waiting for the Luminaria ceremony to begin. One could donate a luminaria in memory of a loved one or to honor one who had battled cancer. I bought one for a sweet lady who had passed last year.

Luminarias lined the street and served as a visual reminder of the terrible reach of cancer.

During the luminaria ceremony, each person was given a small candle. The candle would be lit as they called out categories of loved ones affected by cancer. Then, there was a quiet memory walk around the courthouse to reflect on these loved ones.

The moment that the Boyd’s Creek Church of God choir began to sing “Amazing Grace” was somber and touching. I almost did not video this moment because it was so solemn, but I felt that it was important for people to see the beauty and dignity of the remembrance walk. As the choir sang, people took their candles and walked along the luminarias that lined the courthouse.

The Relay For Life of Sevier County teams worked hard for 12 hours to celebrate 20 years of important work that impacts our citizens. This group truly brings hope to those in our county who face the fear of cancer. Many thanks to Emily Kile who stepped out to create the group here 20 years ago when it was relatively unheard of. Thanks to other leaders and committee members who have worked on Relay events over the years. Thanks to the teams who worked so hard last Saturday. Finally, thanks to my friend Sophia Conerly, who has taught me more about this hard working group of people. I have seen them…and they are warriors.

I’ll end this article with some of the sponsors of this event—it would be difficult without their partnership and support.

An Epic Reunion: SCHS Choir Celebration Concert, May 2018

May 29, 2018outandaboutinsevierville5 Comments

Reunions are common this time of year, but the one that took place on May 20th was an epic event. The Sevier County High School Choir performed a Celebration Concert with alumni that harkened back 25 years. Two choral directors, teachers, students, and family joined together for an amazing musical moment. I wouldn’t have missed this for the world!

The SCHS Celebration Concert was led by three teachers. Mistress of Ceremonies was Ms. Jean Burkhart, director of the Seymour High School Choir (pictured left). The concert was directed by Nathan Rhea (center) and Peg Brasfield Welch (pictured right). Nathan is an SCHS graduate from the Class of 2000 and current director of the SCHS Choir. Peg Brasfield Welch served as SCHS Choral Director from 1991-2009 and was Nathan’s teacher at SCHS.

I walked in just in time to get a good seat in the performance hall of the Parkway Church of God. Since there were a few minutes before showtime, I got up to say hello to some very special people.

It is always so nice to see retired SCHS Principal, Gary Roach. He and his wife had arrived from Florida in time to see this event. Pictured left to right: Nathan Rhea, Gary Roach, and Peg Brasfield Welch.

Ryah Parkhurst and Deborah Webb waiting for the performance to begin. Deborah is a Fine Arts teacher and has known the two choir directors for many years.

The ‘Welcome’ and Opening Prayer were delivered by Mr. Roach. He is always interesting to listen to and we know that there will be a good story in the mix. Not only did he serve as our principal at SCHS, but Mr. Roach and Peg have known each other since she was in high school.

The concert began with an Appalachian folk song called “Shady Grove,” performed by the Men’s Concert Choir.

Next, the Alumni Men joined to sing “My Wild Irish Rose.”

The Women’s Concert Choir sang ” High Flight.”

Peg Brasfield Welch directed the Women and Alumni Concert Choir in “Music Down in My Soul.”

There were more songs to come. The audience truly enjoyed all the groups performing together. I had never heard “Nella Fantasia” before and thought it may the loveliest song that I have ever heard. Soaring vocals!

There was a special presentation at the mid-point of the show for Peg Brasfield Welch, a teacher who has impacted so many people. To begin, Nathan Rhea stated that she changed his life 18 years ago. Peg told him that “singing is a gift from God.” Nathan recalled how Peg encouraged students to keep singing and to keep choral music ‘alive.’ The goal is not to compete with each other, but “to shine together.”

My IPhone did not capture good photos indoors so I contacted a professional photographer that I noticed attending the performance. The featured image for this article was by Kraehmer Photography. Visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/kraehmerphotography/ . The following photos were also used with permission by Kraehmer Photography. Many thanks!

(Photo courtesy of Kraehmer Photography.)

It is rare when a former student gets the opportunity to honor a teacher in a special collaboration such as the Celebration Concert. Nathan Rhea said, “I am so honored to have had the chance to direct this concert and plan it with my former high school choir teacher. How often does that happen? A student co-direct with their former teacher…how cool is that?” (Photo courtesy of Kraehmer Photography.)

There was more music to come—and it was lovely. (Photo courtesy of Kraehmer Photography.)

Anita Ownby Lipton sings a solo from “Order My Steps.” Anita always remembers Peg’s quote, “Music is all around us. All you have to do is listen!”

Drew Hatcher’s voice almost brought Melinda and I to tears during “Nella Fantasia.” What a beautiful sound! (Photo courtesy of Kraehmer Photography.)

Some of the best singers to come from the SCHS Concert Choir were present during this Celebration Concert. (Photo courtesy of Kraehmer Photography.)

After the performance, Mr. Roach chatted with two of Peg’s sons.

Alumni Choir members Marley Blevins and Julia Chastain Christ after the show.

Nathan Rhea, choir director at SCHS had a final thought about the Celebration Concert. He said, “Peg inspired me so much and that is what I want to do for my students: to inspire them to be better than they ever thought they could be. The SCHS Choral Department is what it is today because of Peg and it was nice to have a chance to give something back to her. Her former students showed up, sang and then everyone praised what she had achieved. This is everything to her.”

After the show, Peg reflected, “The students bonded as a group, made up of separate classes and all ages. Nathan Rhea outdid himself collecting the data and the history of this organization. This celebration was on my bucket list. It was everything, and more, than I hoped for.”

At the end, we left the Celebration Concert with this thought…

“Singing is something we can do our whole life long.” Peg Brasfield Welch.

Sevierville Bloomin’ Barbeque and Bluegrass Festival 2018

May 20, 2018May 20, 2018outandaboutinsevierville1 Comment

It was a jam packed weekend downtown Sevierville with history walks, ‘chalk walk art,’ cooking competitions, bluegrass music, and lots of food. Sevierville has never been busier. Here are a few scenes from the 2018 Bloomin’ Barbeque & Bluegrass Festival in downtown Sevierville.

We saw that Bloomie,’ the festival mascot, made a lot of new friends on Friday evening.

The Brad Hudson Band played on the Main Stage at 6:00 p.m. Pictured from left to right: Josh Cantrell, Logan Hembree, Brad Hudson, Dylan Abney, and Andy Stinnett. Brad Hudson and Andy Stinnett live in Sevier County.

The Brad Hudson band took the Main Stage on Friday evening at 6:00 p.m. Interestingly, they had a show the next day in Maryland! (Picture and video are courtesy of Ursula Stinnett.) This song is called “Pike County Breakdown.”

After a passing shower, we were out and about on Court Avenue checking out the vendors.

We loved this T-shirt on sale at the Ole Smoky table.

We loved this honey truck with the live bees on display behind glass.

These looked amazing. We had to just walk away.

We took a walking tour at 6:00 on Friday evening. The clouds look dark over Bruce Street, but we were able to complete the tour before more rain arrived.

Roasted sweet corn was highly recommended by festival goers.

I looked up from my camera and saw Coach Wilhoit and the words ‘Rib King’ at the same moment. That made perfect sense! Ellen and Shane Wilhoit enjoyed walking around and seeing the festival with family.

Rain washed away the art from Friday afternoon, but the streets were dry by Saturday so I was able to see some examples from the Chalk Walk on Bruce, sponsored by the Sevierville Commons Arts Council. I will cover that and an upcoming event for them in a new blog, coming soon.

There was a barbeque tasting contest at 2:30 on Saturday afternoon. It was VERY, Very popular with attendees. People could buy a ticket for $10 and get 15 samples from the cooking teams. Tasters voted by putting the cup with an entry number on it in a box. Don’t eat lunch before you try this.

Barbeque tasting cups are placed on pizza boxes to allow tasters to transport them to a place to sit and try them. Excellent idea. Dress for hot weather and wear something dark so sauce won’t accidentally stain a shirt or pants. This is my advice for first timers to this event.

You can buy a yellow or blue ticket. The teams are anonymous so you can judge the samples without bias. $10 for 15 samples. That equaled about a cup of barbeque—that is a lot! You may want to consider sharing with someone.

It takes a big grill to cook competitively. This wasn’t the largest one by far at the festival.

A long line formed by 2:15. Don’t worry—it will move very quickly at start time.

I went into the Arts in Common Gallery to say hello and to escape the heat. You can see through the window barbeque aficonados lining up for the tasting event . These rocking chairs will be auctioned off on June 9th at the gazebo. Stay tuned for an upcoming blog story in advance of this event.

The assembly line serving the samples was efficient and speedy. These volunteers hardly looked up because they were so quick. Thank you!

It takes a while to try 15 samples of barbeque so you have to find a cool place to sit. The free water was much appreciated at this point. All the samples were outstanding, in my opinion. I tend to like sweet/spicy sauce so several really appealed to me. Fun!

Advertising, food, and competition collide in this sign. Will look forward to it next year too.

See you out and about in Sevierville.

Grilling at KaTom with Randall Jolley and Barbara Tenney

May 14, 2018May 14, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

I get excited when I see the announcement pictured above because it means there is going to be a lesson and dinner at KaTom. This one involved one of my favorite cooks in East Tennessee, Barbara Tenney. Supported by master griller, Randall Jolley, this dinner was especially enjoyable. Here is the menu for the class on May 9th:

Menu

Mandarin Pasta Spinach Salad with Teriyaki Dressing

Firecracker Chicken

Gordon’s Marinated Asparagus with Pecans

Banana Pudding with Meringue

Randall Jolley and Barbara Tenney are ready to begin. Take your seats, please!

Randall begins with a lesson on the Firecracker sauce. I found it exactly as I like it, but with a little bit of ‘heat.’ You can see the overhead mirror and video screen. Consequently, every seat is a good one for these cooking classes.

We went outside to see the grill and the sauce. The grill was on sale for a great price too.

We were all ‘foodies’ at this demo and were happy to go outside to see the tools for master grilling.

A view from the overhead screen of Barbara in action.

After eating this wonderful dish, I had to go to the store and buy more asparagus for home. It was fabulous! The sauce complimented the food without overpowering it. In addition, I had not thought of adding pecans to asparagus, but it added a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the dish. Classes like this are good in that they expand my thinking as a cook.

It was the ideal plate for a spring or summer dinner. Salad, veggie, and protein. Perfect!

I love to watch people make meringue and bake it. We could not wait to try the banana pudding.

This was fabulosity!

Yes, we agreed that it was probably the best banana pudding that we had ever tasted. Divine!

I was lucky to be seated at a table with some Morristown fans of Barbara Tenney. What fun they were! It is always a pleasure to sit near Faye Andrews at a KaTom class as well. I have been lucky to sit with her several times now. I saw other friends from Morristown, the Lynches, who happen to live across the street from my sister. I was hoping to run into them again. Other attendees were from Knoxville and Alcoa.

KaTom cooking demos are truly a fun time and one of my favorite ways to get out and out in Sevierville. Follow them on Facebook to see events or call them to receive email updates for classes. https://www.facebook.com/KaTomRestaurantSupply/

Here are the next events on the KaTom calendar:

June 5th Warren Weiss from Knox Mason

June 20th Neil Green from All Occasions Catering

Save me a seat at the table!

Shine and Dine: Cinco in the City 2018

May 6, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

The Sevierville Commons Association knocked it out of the park with a fun event yesterday, a fundraiser that incorporated local food and spirits with the Cinco de Mayo date. It was a relaxed, comfortable and (at times) joyous event as patrons enjoyed food, refreshments, and music that made the day quite a pleasure. Follow along as we take you through the Shine and Dine Cinco in the City event.

This new event will take the place of the fall Art Walk. Although many of us loved that event, the Shine and Dine has a lot to offer and I think that it will continue to grow. So glad that I got to attend the first one!

I met Karen at the Sheriff’s Dept. parking lot and we walked up Bruce Street to find the party. The festive spirit began at the entrance. We checked in and selected a bead necklace. Sombreros were a popular item while they lasted.

The first vendor that we passed was the Old Forge Distillery. Old Forge offered two refreshments: a Margarita cocktail and a Sangria concoction that were both crowd pleasers. Their product is always excellent.

Our favorite barbecue place had good things to give away. We love Buddy’s bar-b-que!

Keeping true to the Cinco de Mayo theme, the Old Mill offered some outstanding, authentic guacamole, pico de gallo, and steak tacos. This was the real thing and we really enjoyed it.

Bistro 109 prepared meatball appetizers and hummus with cucumbers. They always have a beautiful table display so it is easy to find them. Loved the food!

XXX Moonshine is always good to see at these events. Peaches and Cream and Coffee are the favorites.

Andrew Temple and Keener Shanton observe the nice crowd attending the Sevierville Commons Shine and Dine event.

Healthy Balance served pico de gallo for a good food selection. This reminds me… I think that I need to go by there and pick up some good things for lunch at work next week.

Candace and Kevin Moon were enjoying the nice weather during Cinco in the City.

I have heard good things about this restaurant on Newport Highway and hope to visit in the coming weeks. The baked pasta and a sample of their cheesecake were fabulous.

Old Smoky never disappoints. From the creativity to the sample size of the refreshments, they really are a crowd pleaser at any event.

Sevierville Commons members enjoying the success of Shine and Dine Cinco in the City.

These were the cutest outfits!

I did a blog story a few months ago called “Lift Your Spirits” about a visit to Sevier Distilling Company. We are going for a return visit on a Thursday soon because they were out of Tenekeela in January.

I was quite impressed with this big stage! I wasn’t expecting it. In addition, I was impressed that the first act played a two hour set with little break. Here, Rossdafareye is in full sombrero mode and playing music that had a comfortable festival groove.

Love this title! A new genre of music that I need to learn more about.

Dogs seemed to be welcome to the event if they were on a leash.

My friend, Karen, and her neighbors.

This chef works out in my HIIT class. He will do two classes in a row, as you can tell. Good to see him there.

These guys came from Morristown and Memphis to the event. The guy from Memphis had come with his girlfriend, who must be local.

Chad and Cindy supporting the Sevierville Commons fundraiser.

Having so much fun!

Now, the main act from Atlanta was ready to take the stage. We were ready to hear the Breakfast Club!

The guy in front of the stage must be a ‘super fan!’

A few moments later, I realized my friend Karen likes Van Halen. Who knew?

The band played all the 80s favorites and even came back for an encore.

The encore was “Don’t Stop Believing,” by Journey. We didn’t want to stop singing.

There were many vendors so I hope that I got a photo from each. These businesses play a vital role in the success of these events. Here are some more that we enjoyed.

Union Steak and Lube ladies were so nice and having a good time as well.

Additional thanks to the event sponsors pictured above. Thank you!

As the clock approached 8:00, it was time to go. We left with good memories of a new, enjoyable event in downtown Sevierville. Many of the people that I met were not from here. Some were from Knoxville, Morristown, and even Memphis. They all were having a great time and several said that they want to come back next year. Consequently, the Sevierville Commons Association hit a home run with this event.

It is one of our favorite new events this year. Well done!

Fun at the Ladies Derby Hat Social 2018

April 4, 2018April 4, 2018outandaboutinsevierville5 Comments

The Ladies Derby Hat Social in April ushers in spring events for me. It is a prelude to the Night at the Derby event on April 20th, presented by the United Way of Sevier County. This is my third year to attend the hat social and it is still great fun. Follow along for the fun…

Emily Whaley, Donna Rolen, and Amy Harper don their most festive hats at the Ladies Hat Social event.

There was a beautiful assortment of hats in colors to suit every taste. I already have two hats so I enjoyed trying on a few more—just in case.

My friend Karen always enjoys this part and commented that it would be fun to bring that era back, to bring back the time that ladies wore hats. Karen is wearing a cabi Spring ’17 top that matches the trim in that beautiful pink chapeau.

This hat was fabulous! This lady looked ready for the Derby.

You can nosh in a healthy way at this event. This is the plate that I always want when I see something catered at/by Courthouse Donuts.

You can tell when someone is wearing the perfect hat for them. This young lady looked beautiful in every hat.

My friend, Sophia, looks simply smashing in this one. Love the colors! She is wearing the Te Amo blouse and pants from the cabi Spring ’18 collection.

But I also liked this Derby hat too. It had such panache. Decisions, decisions…

I am fascinated by the little hats called ‘fascinators.’ The first ones that I saw were in a photo of Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. Did the Brits start the ‘fascinator’ trend?

Donna Huffaker and Marvelle Sewell were available to help with hat selections. Sassafras is my favorite shop in the Old Mill area in Pigeon Forge. Here is a link to the store Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/SassafrasOldMill/

Here is a link to the Old Mill. You could eat at the Old Mill and spend hours in that area.

http://www.old-mill.com

Jodi Ramsey wears my favorite hat of the evening. What beautiful colors! Orange and white, naturally. I hope Sassafras orders more of those soon. I must have one!

Desserts for the Ladies Hat Social are always a temptation.

The door prizes are an exciting moment during the event. In fact, they can offset the ticket price in a good way. There were several gift baskets and a gift certificate worth $25 at a local boutique; consequently, the $15 ticket was recouped with most of the door prizes.

A view from our table shows someone winning a door prize, presented by Amy Harper, Executive Director of the United Way of Sevier County.

This hat was so pretty that I considered buying another one. I am wearing a cabi Bell jacket, Purr came, and the Drop Sparrow necklace. The hat brought the outfit together nicely.

The time quickly came to an end and we left thinking ahead to the upcoming event, Night at the Derby, presented by the United Way of Sevier County. It will take place on Friday evening, April 20th, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. You can buy tickets or buy a table reservation. Here is a link to the United Way webpage. http://www.uwosc.org/upcoming-events/

Here is also a link to the event Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/NightattheDerby/

Call the United Way of Sevier County for more ticket information.

The Night at the Derby is a fun event that helps to support the organization’s mission. The United Way of Sevier County partners with many agencies in Sevier County to provide critical programs in the community. This is one of their most important fund raisers of the year so get you hats, dresses, and coats ready. We’ll soon be off to the races.

It is one of the most fun things to do while out and about in Sevierville.

Relay For Life +SCHS Host ‘Hoops For Heroes’

March 21, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

March Madness hit the SCHS gym last Saturday afternoon when local heroes battled it out on the hardwood for bragging rights—and to support one of the hardest working volunteer organizations in Sevier County. It was Hoops for Heroes to benefit Relay For Life.

I walked in, paid the $5 admission, and said hello to the student volunteers. Many, many concessions were available. Have lunch there when you go next year.

I was late so games were in full swing by the time I arrived. Six teams competed: Pigeon Forge Police, Sevierville Police, Sevierville Fire, Pigeon Forge Fire, and two teams from the Sevier County Sheriff’s Department.

Above is a collage of four of the teams.I missed two of the shirts due to the speed of the players. 😉

Play was divided into 15 minute segments. There was a 5 minute break between games. Competition was fierce. Good recovery here!

Sevier County High has a Relay For Life student chapter. Some of the organizers for this event were Leslie Mattern, Michael Maddron, and Ben Brabson. Scorekeepers were Beth Ownby and Ben Brabson.

Officiating was strict! Officials were Scott Ward and Jason Ownby.

Event co-chairs for the Hoops for Heroes event were Judy Bales (left) and Danette Rolen (right).

Sevier County Mayor, Larry Waters; Judy Bales, event co-chair; and Brian McCarter support the Hoops for Heroes basketball competition.

The Sevier County Sheriff’s Department team scores a basket.

My friends, Wendy and Becky, cheering on the Sevierville Fire and Police Department teams.

Our favorite, Officer Leia Loveday, getting ready to play for the Sevier County Sheriff’s Department.

A battle for the basket by the Sevier County Sheriff’s Department.

This was just part of the cheering section for the Sevier County Sheriff’s Department. Sheriff Seals and his wife Wanda were enjoying the game, especially since they had two teams in the event.

All eyes are on the ball!

Becky Roberts and the parents of star player, Jaime Roberts. I saw him hit some three pointers.

Players in the championship game.

Relay For Life board members, Carlene Maples and Sophia Conerly enjoyed the event.

This political message is paid for by Tad Wynn.

I expected some of the players on the teams to be former high school players due to the skills. As I watched the Pigeon Forge Police Department, a couple of players stood out. I talked to this player at the end and then recognized him. This is Logan McCarter, an SCHS athlete and member of the class of 2013. Fun to watch him play again!

Some former high school hoops players shine on the hardwood.

Brian McCarter brings his commentator skills to the Relay for Life Hoops for Heroes event. The team nicknames were priceless! (The Budgetbusters?) I am still laughing about that one.

The scorekeeping was in good hands.

There was strong play in the championship game between the Sevierville and Pigeon Forge Police Departments.

It was a battle, but the Pigeon Forge Police Department won the championship game; thus, they are the winners of the Hoops for Heroes event. Fierce play!

The Sevier County Sheriff’s Department won the consolation game. Well played!

Clearly, all participants and volunteers last Saturday were heroes, especially in helping the fight against cancer. If you wanted to find a hero, the SCHS gym was full of them in the picture above. Many thanks to them all.

This was a wonderful, family friendly event and I am so glad that I was able to see some of the games. I will arrive early next time. Be ready for next year because I think that this event will return with teams ready to ‘even the score.’ There may be even more teams. Lawyers? Moonshiners? Stay tuned! Relay for Life’s Hoops for Heroes was one of my favorite things to do this month. It was a good Saturday to get out and about in Sevierville.

Sevierville Commons Arts Council ‘Make It and Take It’ Workshops Begin For Spring 2018

March 18, 2018March 18, 2018outandaboutinseviervilleLeave a comment

There is something fun going on downtown Sevierville on Saturdays— and it is free! The workshops are welcome to everyone, young and old. You don’t even have to be good with your hands because an artist will guide you through the process. It is time for the Spring 2018 Sevierville Commons Arts Council ‘Make It and Take It’ workshops. I visited last Saturday and here is what I saw.

It was a sunny day on Bruce Street and nice to be out and about. I arrived after 12:00 to find the room busy.

There are a lot of things to see. Just walk in and say “hello.” You will be invited to come back and make something special to take home.

The workshop on Saturday instructed participants how to make beaded necklaces.

I didn’t make this one, but admired it. I liked the moon and starfish charms.

The Sevierville Commons Arts Council won a grant that provides materials to create things in the workshops. Donations are accepted too.

Children accompanied by an adult can actively participate and create in the workshops. They love it!

A second workshop was taking place called Jelly painting. The designs were so interesting and pretty.

These young artists created some beautiful designs. I admired them all!

Check this schedule for more workshops throughout the spring.

Here is information on a June fundraiser for the organization. These aren’t your typical rockers!

Here is something the organization will be doing on the Saturday before Easter. Drop by!

This is one of the best things to do downtown in the spring. It is free and family friendly. Furthermore, this organization is significantly contributing to the vitality and revitalization of downtown Sevierville. Come check it out when you are out and about in Sevierville.

I’ll share some the pretty jelly painting designs by the young artists on Saturday. They wanted me to take pictures of their work, so here they are!

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Out and About in Sevierville

See, Dine, Dwell.

Year: 2018