Author: outandaboutinsevierville

Downtown Sevierville Farmers Market, October 7, 2016

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It may have been the best weather yet for the 2016 Sevierville Downtown Farmers Market. Here is a picture of me taking a picture of a guy taking a picture of the courthouse. Lot’s of tourists in town today. I suspect some evacuees from Hurricane Matthew here as well.

We had a quick  break so I decided to stop in at Courthouse Donuts for lunch. Also there, we got hear my favorite duo, the Pea Pickin’ Hearts.

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It is great to have a chance to eat lunch out!

 

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I am ordering what Laura got next time. Grilled pimento cheese!

Singing Johnny Cash song “Ring of Fire.”

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A Courthouse Donut with coconut flakes!

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Then there was enough time for a quick stroll through the farmers market.

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It was good to see the Sevier County Humane Society, who always visit on the first Friday of the month. I got to visit two sweet pups.

This pup is a sweet senior. Pictured left, it shows that it can ‘sit’ pretty.

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A well mannered pup. House trained and looking for a ‘furever’ home.

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We are lucky to have such a strong animal welfare organization in our town.

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Art happening live at the farmers market.

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Pottery wheel in action.

 

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Really enjoyed the window art and  fall decorations on the way back to my car.

I  especially liked the reflection of the courthouse in the window here of Courthouse Donuts. Art enhancing the windows. Don’t forget that there will be an Art Happening this Thursday at 5:00. I’ll run another announcement this week.

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It was such a great day to be out and about in Sevierville…

For more pictures, go to the blog Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/

Sevierville Sunrise Rotary Serves Up the 34th Annual ‘ I Love Sevierville’ Luncheon

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Almost within the shadow of the Dolly Parton statue, the Sevierville Sunrise Rotary Club sponsored the I ♥ Sevierville lunch on Friday, September 3o, 2016. You could not have asked for better weather to enjoy a lunch on the courthouse lawn. Lunch, entertainment, door prizes. It was nice event produced by a hard working organization. Here is how it went…

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Members were packing lunches by 6:00 a.m. That is EARLY!  They take their name seriously. (Photos supplied by a Sevierville  Sunrise Rotary Club Member).

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I parked across from my bank, Sevier County Bank, and walked downtown. The truck was loaded up and going for the event.

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I have ordered a box lunch at work, but this was the first time that I could go to the lunch myself. If you work downtown, are retired, or can meet friends here for the event then you will find it to be a treat. This is the 34th annual event, hosted since 2003 by the Sevierville Sunrise Rotary Club. It takes place on the courthouse steps from 11-1:00 p.m.

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The band warms up before the event. I was REALLY impressed with the acoustics in front of the courthouse. There should be a lot more things taking place here in the future because music sounds great here. You can see how the elevated veranda makes for a natural stage. Sound quality was outstanding.

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Whoever set up tables and decorations did a fabulous job! Love the seasonal things.

I counted 10 long tables, 80 chairs, and lots of benches so seating is no problem.

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Rotary members getting ready for the lunch rush. Left, David Reller, right, Clyde Rennie.

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First rush for boxed lunch pickups.

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These ladies were early and ready to enjoy the event. They call themselves ‘the Lunch Bunch.’

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Sevier County Sherrif, Ron Seals, supporting the Sevierville Sunrise Rotary Club lunch. I saw this nice orange and white shirt going by and knew that I had to get a picture. Go Vols!

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More Vol fans from the Sheriff’s office supporting the Sunrise Rotary Club.

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These downtown folks enjoy taking a break outside in 70 degrees and sunshine. They  enjoyed the I ♥ Sevierville lunch which supports  Sunrise Rotary Club projects.

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Below is a video shot that captures a musical moment. You may like this song…

The band, self-named the Senior Citizens Band, played good music in various genres. My favorite was their third set which was bit jazzy.

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A ventriloquist had a fast moving comedy set. The crowd liked his jokes and quick delivery. Kyle Scribner plays the sheriff at the Hatfield and McCoy theater. Not sure if he ran into Sheriff Seals before his set. Kyle is available for parties, corporate events, trade shows, and banquets…as a ventriloquist, of course.

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The Sevierville Sunrise Rotary Club serves many in our community. The evidence is on the back of the lunch ticket where you see their projects and scholarships. If you are interested in joining this club, meet them on Thursday mornings at 7:00 a.m. at Courthouse Donuts downtown.

Clearly, this is an organization that is out and about and doing great work in Sevierville. 

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Dolly approves!

Sevierville Downtown Farmers Market, September 30, 2016

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A ‘self-prescribed rest day’ allowed me a trip to the downtown Sevierville Farmers Market on Friday. There are just a few more weeks left for the market. Although it is gearing down, there are still some exciting things left in the year for the downtown Sevierville Commons area. For example, look for some exciting things from the Sevierville Arts Council.

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I stopped to chat a few minutes with a leader with the Sevierville Commons Arts Council.

They are planning a holiday market on December 2 and 3rd. December 3rd may coincide with the Sevierville Christmas parade so that should be a big day downtown. Check the Sevierville Commons Arts Council  website for more information.

https://www.seviervillecommonsartscouncil.org/events.html

The next Art Happening will take place on Thursday, October 13th at Courthouse Donuts/ Dyers Downtown. The reception will honor artist Nelson Ziegler, an award winning painter and wood turner. Drop by any time to meet local artists downtown.

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I love seeing the screen printed T-shirts created by the Sevierville Commons Arts Council this year. Can’t decide on a favorite, but the top picture may be one of them.

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This artist was featured at the Art Walk downtown last month.

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I bought an orange and white Vols necklace from this vendor last time for a great price. Go Vols!

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This vendor comes from Grainger County and can also be found at the Saturday morning farmers market at the Sevierville Farmers Co-Op. He will remember your face and is quite friendly. The tomatoes are great.

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This vendor specializes in hot dogs and lemonade. I tried the sweet version, which was good. Not overly sweet. He makes a version with Splenda as well. Pretty good! He will give you a sample if you want to try it.

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LOL.

I hate to see the farmers market gearing down, but I realize that it is October. However, there will still be a lot of things happening in the downtown area if you are out and about in Sevierville. 

See you at the Art Happening on October 13th at Courthouse Donuts!

Robert Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming 2016

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Robert Tino’s Smoky Mountain Homecoming ushers in fall this weekend! The weather is going to be ideal for your visit to this festival today and tomorrow. My advice: bring your best camera and lots of storage for pictures because there will be unbelievable backdrops for fall portraits/pictures. Take advantage of it!

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I was able to go early yesterday and had a wonderful time. Here is what I saw…

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Lots of parking!

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This looks like a beautiful backdrop on the way onto the property. Get a picture here!

Crafts made on site.

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Local and regional artists. I loved the pumpkin and jack-o-lantern candle holder at this booth. You may know her mother too!

My friends Melinda and Millie would love this jewelry. I purchased a necklace and earrings.   The artist is from Knoxville and has some things on sale at the Knoxville Museum of Art gift shop and LizBeth boutique.

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There is a $5 admission— well worth it. You can spend hours and hours at this event.

Hours on the Facebook site say Saturday and Sunday 10:00 – 5:00.

https://www.facebook.com/Robert-Tinos-Smoky-Mountain-Homecoming-130177070364792/

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Children’s Pumpkin Patch.

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Entertainment.

Lots of good food today and tomorrow!

Antiques for sale under a large tent. Loved the jewelry. Anyone remember these books? The cookbook is from a WATE TV personality decades ago. Maybe I should have bought that one?

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It is going to be a beautiful weekend in the Smoky Mountains. There won’t be a better way to get out and about in Sevierville than the Robert Tino Smoky Mountain Homecoming.

See more pictures on the Out and About in Sevierville blog page on Facebook. Click the link below to access that page. Enjoy!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/

Art Crawl@ the Sevierville Commons 2016

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It was perfect weather for the Art Crawl @ the Sevierville Commons last Thursday evening. I must say…it could not have been an easier, more relaxing, enjoyable event!

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We were greeted by Arts Commons members, Stefanie Johnson and Anne Hewitt. They told us how things worked since it was our first visit to the Art Crawl. There were two rows of booths flanking the gazebo containing food and beverage samples. We decided to start with the shaded side.

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Old friends and new.

Melinda Derrick, pictured on the left, Sophia Conerly pictured in the middle, and Sofia’s daughter pictured on the right.

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Jill Greene and a fellow artist in attendance.

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Amelia and Louis duo. (John on Saxophone). What wonderful jazz music to accompany the evening festivities.

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My favorite restaurant, Bistro 109. The Waldorf salad was divine, as was the orange cranberry chicken salad sandwich.

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The Old Mill was well represented in both food and art. Here are potters who create wonderful things for the Pigeon River Pottery store. They explained the creative processes to me. I have visited that store many times and always enjoy it!

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The Schmutzers enjoying an exceptional evening in downtown Severville at the Art Crawl.

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David Elrod and colleague were most helpful during the evening ,  exuberant hosts.

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Courthouse Donuts never disappoints! Always love the presentation.

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Chuck never looked so good as he did posing in this picture!

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This year, the Art Crawl event featured pottery. Everything was so beautiful. I wanted it all!

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Dr. William Pippin and Emily Kile supporting the Art Crawl.

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WineShop at Home with Charlotte Tatum.

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Food was expertly paired with beverages. There were few lines and the vendors were eager to show you their products in a festive environment.

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My friend Sheley and I enjoy Healthy Balance and highly recommend it!

https://www.facebook.com/orderhealthybalance/

A brisket slider topped with the best bacon.

The Diner may have the best desserts in town. I took a slice of cheesecake ‘to go’ for lunch the next day. Unbelievable!

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This local business recently won international awards for this product produced in Wears Valley. It was paired with Mae Mae’s Lunchbag.

 

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The sun began to set and the temps became very comfortable.

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A light breeze stirred as we heard soft jazz playing from the gazebo. You won’t find a better way to get out and about in Sevierville. 

Support the Sevierville Commons

and the Sevierville Commons Arts Council.

 

For these pictures and more, go to the Out and About in Sevierville Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/

 

 

Upcoming Events For the Next Two Weeks: September 20-30, 2016

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A lot of activities are coming up in the next two weeks!

First, if there are enough signed up for this cooking class then  this is a guaranteed winner! Barbara Tenney is a cooking expert in the area and a favorite on WBIRTV too.

( I am going to use some screenshots in this blog post to share details quickly.)


In its third year, the Art Crawl will feature pottery by several local artists. Buy tickets for the Art Crawl at any branch of Citizens National bank.

Saturday will be the test for the Tennessee Volunteers. Florida!     GBO!


I love this meme that my friend Katherine posted recently.

Next week features my favorite event in Knoxvegas. Save some baklava for me!



Next week, Sevierville Sunrise Rotary Club serves up a lunch during the I Love Sevierville event downtown on the courthouse lawn.

If you work downtown, or will be visiting, call by this Wednesday to reserve your box lunch.


Proceeds benefit the following charities:

Boys and Girls Club

Sevierville 4 H

Food Ministry

Smoky Mountain Rescue Ministry

Mountain Hope Good Shepard Clinic

College scholarships

Christmas food baskets

These is a significant service to our community so they deserve a huge turnout! Come out to enjoy lunch and entertainment in downtown Sevierville.

There will be a lot going on in the next two weeks.

See you out and about in Sevierville…

Quite the Treasure: Treasures From the Heart store benefits Sevier County.

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My friend Elaine volunteers at the Treasures From the Heart store in downtown Sevierville, sponsored by SMARM (Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries). Two weeks ago, she asked us to come visit the store after our get-together at the downtown Farmer’s Market, followed lunch at Courthouse Donuts. If it is a store then we must go!

Treasures From the Heart is close to downtown. It is located on 230 Court Avenue, just a couple of blocks walk from downtown Sevierville.  So off we went to investigate further on foot.

Find their website at this link:   http://smarm.org/thrift-store/

Facebook page :

https://www.facebook.com/Treasures-From-The-Heart-130330763709367/

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There was a Ladies Night Out event last month to introduce people to this unique store. I was unable to attend; however, the pictures and comments on social media later showed that the event was a great success. I was curious. Now, I can see why it was so popular.

Whoever fashioned these store windows did a fabulous job! Very inviting. Makes me want to run in and look at all the dresses!

I walked into Treasures From the Heart and spent at least 30-45 minutes in there looking around. Here are some things that impressed me…

  1. 100% of the profits stay here in Sevier County and benefit our citizens. Elaine said that a large portion of the proceeds directly help children.
  2. The store is very clean and organized. Very pleasant.
  3. I felt like I was in a regular department store.
  4. Someone told me that the building is where Dolly Parton held her first performance. That is a huge reason to visit!
  5. I found quite a few things that I would consider treasures—some things that I have looked for in Knoxville thrift stores, but had never found. Not found until I looked at Treasures of the Heart store in Sevierville.
  6. The price is right. And you never know what you may find.

Here are some of my favorite things…

Special occasion glassware.

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Sports fan logo clothing. Go Vols!

Unfortunately, I didn’t see any Gator or Crimson Tide things in there on the day of our visit.     : )

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Bangles, bracelets and other jewelry. Nicely arranged!

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Is this silver? Martha Stewart would buy the whole box and use it for her table settings at her Maine house, not worrying if it matched exactly. I may have to go back and get this…

These dresses were exquisite. I was impressed with this area.

This dress is a showstopper! It had matching shoes too.

This may be a secret…

..but I heard that ladies come here to shop for a dress when they are going on a cruise. They can wear it a time or two, no one knows them so the dress would not have been seen before, plus they do not have to spend a great deal of money to look great. I loved this dress! Yes, I think that I need to go back soon…

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Golf irons and woods to hit the greens.

This jacket was nice! Name brand, better price.

Did I mention that Treasures of the Heart in downtown Sevierville applies 100% profits to our county?

A great selection of beautiful glassware! Almost every kind. I don’t have room in my cabinets, but I may try to make some space.

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Two perfectly good ‘rollators.’ (That is what I call them. My mom had one and I still have it. Very helpful when you need one. For a foot injury, etc. )

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A player piano anyone?

This is the only store that donates 100 % of proceeds to our citizens in Sevier County.

A tuxedo jacket!

Costumes. I love these.

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A snowsuit.

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Did Dolly once use these steps on her way to her performance in this building? I’ll bet she did. Walk in Dolly’s footsteps here.

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There was only one of these ‘horn of plenty ‘ holiday silicon baking forms. November is just around the corner.

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Belts cost a ridiculous amount of money, even at discount stores. Look what you can find at Treasures of the Heart in Sevierville.

This store donates 100% of the proceeds to Sevier County citizens. Did I mention that already?

I was impressed with this store. It was on par with the one that I love to frequent at Litchfield Beach. Even better. I plan on returning in a couple of weeks. Hope that glassware and the blue dress are still there…

There is so much more to find at Treasures of the  Heart store in Sevierville. Find these pictures and more at the Out and About in Sevierville Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/

You are sure to find a treasure or two here when you are out and about in Sevierville…

A Wonderful Evening : United Way of Sevier County Presents a Taste of Autumn, 2016

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It was a nice September evening for our first Taste of Autumn event, presented by the United Way of Sevier County. We made our way through the Sevierville back roads to avoid rod run traffic and to arrive at the Gatlinburg Convention Center / the WL Mills Conference Center in time for this unique event.

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Friends gathered at table five with our generous host, Dr. William Pippin. I was honored to sit with VIPs at the Pippin Dental Care table. And what a fun group it was!

It was nice to get out and about with VIPs like Sheley and Joey Rose.

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It was a treat to sit with local VIPs, Larry and Janice Sorrell.

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Food booths were along three sides of the room. There was almost too much to choose from.

The Margaritaville gumbo was great and I would definitely order it at the restaurant.

The beef brisket sliders from the Park Vista Grill were one of my favorites.

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Bubba Gump’s shrimp and grits helped them win most of the tokens that attendees used to vote for ‘favorite restaurant.’ They won the event for most popular food, the Golden Spoon Award. Who can argue with shrimp and grits?

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This is a shrimp.

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Some people don’t mind if you take their picture. Super nice booth for Fox and Parrot and Wine a Little Wine Bar. Need to revisit the Fox and Parrot Tavern on Glades road in Gatlinburg in the near future.

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Others like to make a memorable photo too. Fun booth, this one!

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This one was one of my favorite booths. Please come back next year!

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An excellent Master of Ceremonies.

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Amy Harper, Executive Director of the United Way of Sevier County.

So fun meeting Henry Cho before the show. Here is a picture of Henry Cho having his picture made with Dr. Pippin.

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I had wanted to see Henry Cho last year when the tour brought him to Knoxville, his home town. When I heard that he was performing at the Taste of Autumn then I knew it was a ‘must see’ event. It did not disappoint! His humor is clean, yet it has a keen edge. He points out truths that we all see in life. He also deals with stereotypes in a gentle, playful, yet hilarious way. Married couples and parents will really appreciate his comical observations of life.

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We had a great view and laughed for the duration of the show. My favorite jokes were too many to name.

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He picked people out of the audience during parts of the show and we were nervous that he may turn his attention to us. All was well. We were spared any comedic jabs and enjoyed it all. He is one of the best comedians around today. If you ever get a chance, you must see Knoxville’s own Henry Cho!

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As we walked out of the convention center, we enjoyed the nice evening sunset with nice temperatures.

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And an iconic Gatlinburg night scene.

To be sure, the Taste of Autumn 2016, presented by the United Way of Sevier County, was a wonderful  event and should not be missed. It takes a bit of effort for me to leave from work to arrive by 5:00, but it was worth it. Even more, it helps the United Way of Sevier County, an agency helps more than 15 non-profits in our area.

The United Way goal this year is to raise more than $525,000. This event kicks off the fund raising year so let’s get behind them to meet this goal!

 Go ahead and pencil The Taste of Autumn into your calendar for next year. It is one of the best  September happenings in Sevier County.

Look for more pictures on the United Way Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/United-Way-of-Sevier-County-209056105792131/

 I will post more pictures tonight on the Out and About in Sevierville  Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/

ALDI store open in Sevierville

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I have never been in an Aldi store so I took off after work and went there yesterday, opening day. Boy, was it crowded! Lots of people had the same idea on the grand opening day.

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I had a quarter ready because I had heard that you used them to get a cart, then got the quarter back when you returned the cart. Thus, reducing a need for employees constantly returning carts. However, for grand opening week, they have quarters in the carts for your shopping convenience. A grace period for carts free of charge.

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A great first impression! And just what some of us can use after work—a sample of chocolate! The prices were very good for organic dark chocolate bars.

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I liked the German foods and am getting into the mood for fall. Octoberfest on the way.

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Lots of unique vino brands.

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Good prices on produce. Here is an example.

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I can only find a hummus quartet at Costco or Trader Joes, so I’ll definitely go back for this.

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And this too.

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This is popular on grand opening day.

For my friend Leisa. Strudel!

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Some interesting desserts in the cooler.

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Restrooms by the front door. Be warned—it is a single. Just so you know.

I enjoyed seeing the store and will go back when the crowds go down. It was so crowded yesterday that I returned my cart so I could just walk freely without it. Aldi brings some unique products to Sevierville. There is even more to see.

There will be more pictures posted on the Out and About in Sevierville Facebook page today.

 

 

Sevier County Humane Society Dog Show gets two paws up!

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We saw some great  dogs on Saturday at the Sevier County Humane Society dog show! First of all, here is a link to their website and Facebook page.

http://www.sevierhumane.org

https://www.facebook.com/SevierHumaneSociety/


I parked close to the tent because the fair would not open for two more hours. There is always a jar in which to make a donation so I did that as I walked in.

The judges, pictured here, were ready to begin the show. Contestants were getting warmed up. Friends and family took their places on bleachers.

 Prizes were waiting to be awarded.
Ava ,the Rottweiler ,didn’t seem to mind her tutu.

Gaia, the Great Dane, was very well behaved and walked well on a leash. She won second place in the large dog contest.


I think this was Doxie, 19 years old! What a sweetheart!


Maggie Pie is a well behaved Yorkie mix.

Kia is an adorable Pomeranian. It would would end up winning an award.
 Bruiser, the Yorkie.

Kameko is a 16 year old Jack Russell terrier. So sweet.

Only one dog was signed up for the Best Trick category. Gaia won best trick.

Start getting your dog tricks ready for next year!


Best dressed pup.


Lando is a 4 year old Bull Mastiff adopted from our shelter. He weighs about  150 pounds! The family always adopts from the shelter.


Calling out the winners. Plus, telling the crowd about opportunities to foster puppies and kittens . This is to give the babies a good chance to stay healthy as well as to socialize them for their new homes.

Bella is a 4 month female boxer. Look at that friendly face!


Bruiser wins a prize, tying with Fanny.


And the Small Dog category winner is…


Picking out her prize!

 

The Humane Society reminded us of the information on their website and animals that you can see at Petsense for adoption. Don’t forget to give your dog monthly heartworm medicine because even one mosquito bite can start that painful and deadly canine illness. The shelter can always use volunteers to walk dogs, play with cats, foster animals, or help with fund raising events.

Bring your dog to the Humane Society Dog Show next year. It is a fun way for you and your fur baby to get out and about in Sevierville  together.

See these pictures and more on the blog Facebook page for Out and About in Sevierville. Below is the link.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/