SCHS Foundation 5K : Smoky Bear Turkey Chase 2017

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It was my second year to run the Sevier County High School ‘Smoky Bear Turkey Chase’ on Thanksgiving morning. This is a great way to get moving or get a workout in before the main event—a fabulous holiday lunch. It also funds a STEM scholarship for a student at the high school. Here is how it went this year…

The picture above shows Smoky and student volunteers staying warm in the 37 degree morning temps. Brrrrrrrrr….!

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A wild turkey helped me to find the designated parking area.

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More student volunteers held signs of humorous encouragement.

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I registered online through Eventbrite so I breezed through the pre-registration line. Nancy Trundle Hewitt, Executive Director of the SCHS Foundation, greeted me at the table. Student and alumni helped us with bibs and runners swag. Many, many thanks to all that they did to carry out this race.

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I was happy to meet this visitor from Alabama. It was her first time to do this 5K. She does half-marathons so the Turkey Chase was good training during the holiday. She found the race through this blog so I was thrilled to hear that news!

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Veteran runners, Kristi Sims Atchley and Julie Nave support the SCHS Foundation 5K race. Kristi definitely had the holiday spirit and best headwear.

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Terra Blalock Bice and sons prepare to run!

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My friends, Kathy Helton and Heidi Ludwig. This was Heidi’s first 5K race. She rocked it!

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SCHS alumni, Nathan and Valerie Mills run a good race, then spend the day with family in Sevier County.

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People are (mostly) bundled up before the race. Temps were in the upper 30s at start time.

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Student volunteers stand on the course and help runners during the race. The signs always make you smile!

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This is a wonderful activity for families. This father and son are ready to run.

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I like the roll call of participant ‘states’ to see where people were from. The guy from Florida walked by and yelled, “it is too cold!”

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A SCHS Choir member sang the National Anthem. Bravo!

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Racing runs in the family.

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A family from Seymour with relatives from Ohio and Oklahoma.

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SCHS alumni racers: Andrew Newton and Kacee Dixson. They graduated in the Class of 2011.

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City of Sevierville officials race too!

IMG_3637This lady races in half and full marathons and loves the Disney races. Today was good conditioning and training for her upcoming race through the Magic Kingdom.

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It was good to see sponsor signs along the course. Many thanks to them for their sponsorship.

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Jaclyn Kile prepares to cross the finish line.

You really, really, really enjoy a doughnut after the race.

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Victory!

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Having fun before the winners are announced.

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Student volunteers are integral to the success of this event. Good job!

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These students helped with water, concessions, standing on the course, and more. Thank you for your help today!

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This was the sweetest brown dog. He/she didn’t run today, but did root us on!

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There was a delay with scores so I had to leave before the winners were announced. The cold was a factor for the race in other ways too. My fully charged IPod lost power before I even finished my race. I had to run the last lap in quiet instead of listening to my finishing tune. A friend’s phone stopped working too so we suspect the cold played a part in that. Nevertheless, weather makes races interesting so we will see what it holds next year.

This is a great way to exercise while getting out and about in Sevierville. Save me a place in the back of the starting line and see you in 2018!

 

 

 

Candy Canes and Cocktails 2017 : A Benefit for the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains

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We enjoyed this event so much last year that it was unthinkable to miss it. Candy Canes and Cocktails is a preview party before the opening of Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees. Proceeds support a great cause, the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains. Attendees can buy a ticket online and attend between 6:00-9:00 p.m. You may enjoy holiday hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails. In addition, there are silent auction items and holiday adornments for purchase: wreaths, decorated trees, swags, etc.

I had not intended to take many pictures— just to enjoy the evening with my friends; however, I will share a few photos from last night. Put on your jingle bells and follow along…

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We parked across the street on a surface lot that was very convenient to the event. The Gatlinburg Space Needle never disappoints for a dramatic night time picture.

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Everyone started getting into the spirit of things after seeing beautiful things on display.

Randolph made a festive nog with a caramel surprise

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Do you recognize this from your childhood? Love this tree.

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The highest approval rating possible for Christmas cookies.

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The Rel Maples Institute at Walters State made some nice cookies that you can’t find just anywhere. Love the candy canes cookies!

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This would be a good one for Pastor Charlie, Kathryn, Suzanne and Andy…and more.

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Selfie stations are always a lot of fun and this one had a lot of good props. Also, there was a nice volunteer taking pictures so you didn’t have grab anyone to do that.

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There are a variety of spots that you can do your own holiday photo shoot. This life size Santa is quite striking.

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Someone made the highest bid for a very comfortable auction item!

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It is fun to see Sevierville friends at the event while supporting the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains. Pictured here are Lessie Koopman, owner of 3D Dance and Fitness, with Les Center.

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Les Center and Chuck Ottolini chatting about fitness and the holidays.

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These people have worked all year on the Candy Canes and Cocktails event. Thank you for such an enjoyable evening!

 

 

Art Happening: November, 2017

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There was another great Art Happening in downtown Sevierville last Thursday evening. This event presented the work of  Dasha Jamison. Lights shining from within Courthouse Donuts served as a beacon as I arrived after dark for the event. Come along and see the work of this special artist.

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Art Happenings take place from 5:30-8:00 p.m. and are free to attendees. These events are sponsored by the Sevierville Commons Arts Council and the Sevierville Commons Association. I missed the first half of the event because of an 11 hour day at work; however, I was able to catch the last part of the evening and to hear Dasha address the gathering.

The Sevier County Courthouse is reflected in the windows in Courthouse Donuts. Several pieces of  Dasha’s art are featured in the front window.

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Irina Vibly, Dasha Jamison, and Trista Bentley attending the November Art Happening.

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I love this work. The brush strokes make me feel the ocean breeze rolling off the ocean.

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Title of the previous work references a trip to Hawaii. I would like to be there!

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Jeff Earle serves guests with wine from a boutique winery in Napa. The owners are friends of Earle and Dasha. It was divine!

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This a small, boutique winery in Napa. If you like reds then it will please you.

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Olga Loveday and Camille Barton Spires attending the Art Happening for Dasha Jamison.

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I was lucky to arrive in time to hear Dasha address the gathering for the Art Happening. Dasha is originally from Russia and has taken art classes since childhood. Her mother encouraged her to explore this talent and passion. I admired the paintings and drawings that covered the walls.

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High five for the November Art Happening!

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Dasha Jamison, featured artist for the Art Happening, has attended classes with instructor, Camille Barton Spires, pictured left. Camille owns Art Studio of the Smokies in Gatlinburg.  Camille said that Dasha attended the first Art Happening in June 2016. At that time, a couple of her ‘exploratory’ pieces of art were displayed in the windows of Courthouse Donuts. Camille said,” Tonight, her artwork covered the interior walls with her very own show! Dasha is not only talented, but driven with inspiration to succeed.”

I love the vivid, bold colors in Dasha’s work.

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These two may be my favorites. However, I love the beach scenes too.

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Sevierville Commons Arts Council board members with featured artist, Dasha Jamison. Pictured left to right are: Jill Greene, Dasha Jamison, Crystal Lynn Sharp, and Laurel Kiewitt.

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Love this picture and the beautiful chalk pieces.

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Who wouldn’t want to be here? I can almost hear the waves.

I enjoyed the music of Andy Springfield, a musician with the Kingdom Heirs. My sisters and best friend will tell you that I love this tune! He played it without being asked. Loved it!

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It was time to go home so I exited Courthouse Donuts and took a last look at this nice sign. Make sure you come to an Art Happening some time! It is one of my favorite ways to get out and about in Sevierville.

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View of the courthouse on the way to my car.

United Way Presents Sevierville Progressive Dinner, November 2017

I have always wanted to attend a ‘progressive dinner’ and finally got a chance  last Thursday evening at a event presented by the United Way. The United Way of Sevier County continues to consistently provide innovative and enjoyable events while serving the community. Here is a recap of that enjoyable evening.

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Bruce Street was closed to traffic so we just walked up through the center of town. There, we found several booths set up with items to sample.

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Merchants of Beer in Knoxville had a selection of cigars to peruse. Notice the nice silver plated ash tray on on the right side of the table.

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The Sevierville Casual Pint brought a sample of the New Belgium Accumulation White IPA.

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I like this picture of the Old Forge barrel lid on display with the barbershop in the background. It was the last customer of the day in the barbershop.

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I loved the fire pit in the middle of Bruce Street. Not only was it beautiful, but the warmth was a nice amenity a couple of hours later. Notice the white tent with tables set up for the main course of the progressive dinner to be served later in the evening.

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United Way Board member, Elise Collier-Massey, preparing for the event with her husband Beau Massey.

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Dustin Manning, owner of Bistro 109, chatting with Leesa and Jim McGill.

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Sierra Williams and Elise Collier-Massey ready to greet guests.

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The check in table was located by the gazebo. It was quick and efficient so we breezed right into the starting point for the progressive dinner.

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United Way Board member, Vonda Cash, with Sophia Conerly, a Sevierville Commons board member.

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Cheri and Al Schmutzer ready for the evening. They were also celebrating an anniversary. Congratulations to them!

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This handout explains the procedures for the evening. People just voluntarily divided into two groups and it went quite smoothly.

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Appetizers from Bistro 109 were perfect! These kabobs were healthy and easy to handle during the cocktail hour.

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You become proud when one of your former students goes to the Tennessee House of Representatives. This is Tennessee State Representative Andy Farmer.

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Mike Comer, United Way Vice Chair, thanks attendees and explains the procedures for the evening. Board member, Austin Williams, is pictured behind him.

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Sophia and I made our first stop at the Arts in Common Gallery for a salad by Healthy Balance. The strawberry and spinach salad was so fresh and was a great first course in the progressive dinner. Please notice the beautiful, old brick wall. I love the seasonal decor as well.

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Local artist, Andrea Wilson, (pictured in tan sweater, center) was giving a tour of the Arts in Common Gallery to United Way supporters. The back wall contains the original brick and windows. It will be fun to see how the Sevier Commons Arts Council uses this new creative space in the years to come.

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If I didn’t have a chihuahua then I would definitely have a Pomeranian. There could not be a sweeter little dog than this one. Sweet Annie!

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Next stop was Mom’s Vintage Kitchen down the street. This was the best pumpkin soup that I have ever had in my life. I actually walked into the restaurant today to see if they had more. It had little’ heat’ to it so it was really a foodie delight. As you can see, I was talking a lot and didn’t finish my first course so I just carried it with me to Mom’s. I love this restaurant!

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Emily Whaley also enjoys the soup at our second stop on the progressive dinner.

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We finished the soup course then proceeded outside to the tent. It was an elegant presentation on Bruce Street for the evening.

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With the Sevier County courthouse in the background, Kirk Fleta prepares to perform. Mike Comer makes announcements with Amy Harper, Executive Director of the United Way.

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I have heard of Kirk Fleta and finally to got to hear him in person. Find him on Facebook and Youtube. Here is a link       https://www.facebook.com/kirk.fleta

http://www.KirkFleta.com        www.FletaFest.com

Here is a video clip of Kirk Fleta singing the first song of the evening, by James Taylor.

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Montay Calloway, branch manager at U.S. Bank, chats by the fire pit with a fellow supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.

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Mixologists from Old Forge Distillery are always friendly and ready to serve.

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We were ready for dinner under the big, white tent. Buffet style was quick and efficient. Please notice the pumpernickel bread from Mom’s Vintage Kitchen in the basket in front of Sophia. It is gluten free and the best in the world. I promise!

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Restaurateurs Dustin Manning and Christie Champ standing by with their wonderful creations. Pass me another slice of pumpernickel bread, please!

The meal went too quickly! We could have stayed under the white tent for another hour, but it was time to move on to the dessert course at Courthouse Donuts.

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Sara greeted us with dessert course. Sara was our model last month in the “Most Instagram Worthy Spots in Downtown Sevierville.” Here is a link to that blog story

https://outandaboutinsevierville.com/?s=Most+Instagram+Worthy

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A sweet tooth will love the Cherry Crumble cake from Courthouse Donuts.

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Lauren Chesney from King University and another supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.

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The final course and great conversation in Courthouse Donuts for the final course of the progressive dinner presented by the United Way of Sevier County. Pictured are Joe Cagley, Clancy Optical; Chris Massie, Titanic; Beau Massey, and a supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.

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Also enjoying the United Way Progressive Dinner are Danielle King, Mariah Farmer, and Rachelle Shults.

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I heard several people remark that an additional benefit of the United Way Progressive Dinner was the chance to talk, connect, and network with people that you rarely get a chance to see and spend time with. Conversation and networking is what is happening in this picture during the dessert course at Courthouse Donuts. We enjoyed it so much!

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Alas, all good fun must come to an end for I had an early call at work the next morning.  I slipped out of Courthouse Donuts and took one last look at the United Way Progressive Dinner through the windows. It was one of the most innovative events that I have attended anywhere. Easy, relaxed, and completely enjoyable. Everything was close and convenient. Bruce street and the businesses there lend themselves easily to a variety of events. This one utilized everything beautifully. I wouldn’t change a thing and can’t wait until next year.

The United Way Progressive Dinner is one of my favorite ways to spend time out and about in Sevierville. 

See you at the gazebo!

Top 10 Reasons to Run the Smoky Bear Turkey Chase 5K

It is November so it is time to consider running in the SCHS Smoky Bear Turkey Chase 5K. I ran it last year and can’t wait to do it again. Here are my top 10 reasons why you should consider this 5K race in our own backyard. I’ll use some pictures from last year to illustrate some points.

  1. It is fun! It is laid back and relaxed as you will ever find a 5K. Show up and run by yourself. You will still have a blast.

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2.   Proceeds support the SCHS STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) Scholarship.

3.   You will meet nice people. There will be families that are both local and visitors for the holiday weekend.

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4.   Race conditions are very comfortable. If it is like last year, the race is mostly on a flat surface. You will not be far from shelter or a bathroom. That is important to some of us!

5. You can walk or run the 5K. Do it at your own pace.

6. You may find yourself running alongside local dignitaries and celebrities too. At the starting line, I found myself standing by Judge Gary Wade and Coppley Vickers. You will probably see Coach B and Kristi Atchley at the race.

7.   You have a decent chance of winning an award. If you are over 40 then you have a very good chance of winning an award. If you are over 50 then you have an outstanding chance of winning an award! Last year, there were 3 awards in every age division. I actually won in my age group!

8.   You will probably laugh several times. Student encouragers will use humor to keep you moving.

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9.  You may get to meet someone famous. Last year, we met a famous Spartan racer.

Jamie McCart ran the race and won in his age group. Train hard, guys! He had an interesting story last year. Click this link to see his story on my blog last year.

https://outandaboutinsevierville.com/2016/11/28/part-2-the-best-thanksgiving-5-k-in-tennessee-the-smoky-bear-turkey-chase-2016/

10.   You can be in and out in an hour and a half. Go home and eat Thanksgiving dinner with little guilt.

Bonus: You will have the best afternoon nap ever.

Want to sign up? You can find them on Facebook. Here is a link. https://www.facebook.com/SCHS-Foundation-5k-1467641556852735/

This is the best little 5K race in Tennessee on Thanksgiving Day. Come run with us!

It is a fun, healthy way to get out and about in Sevierville. 

Sevier County Sheriff’s Office ‘Spooktacular’ Event: Court House Area

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Last night was the biggest event that I have ever attended in downtown Sevierville—and the best. I really didn’t really know what to expect from the Sevier County Sheriff’s ‘Spooktacular’ event at the Courthouse, but I quickly saw that it was a great gathering for families. The first thing that I noticed was a line that wrapped around the courthouse. The photo above shows the first line that I noticed as it wrapped around the building.

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Our friends at Courthouse Donuts had a free cinnamon doughnut for all children attending the Spooktacular event. They smelled divine!

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Foodie shot.

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I wasn’t kidding about the line wrapping around the block. Amazing!

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This T-Rex graciously posed for a picture.

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These firemen were serving popcorn in plastic firemen hats—a double bonus for kids! They gave me some and it was, without a doubt, the best kettle corn that I have ever had anywhere. 

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I ran into my friend Ashley and her superhero at the kettle corn table. They were having such fun!

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I liked the little policeman in this picture talking to the real ones. However, after looking at this photo a minute, there is something in the background that is amusing in this shot.

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Our friends from Pets Without Parents attend the event with Rocko. Drop by PWP on Chapman Highway and say hello to Rocko and other pets some time.

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Friendly ladies from the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office having a great time and greeting young trick or treaters.

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I was impressed with the attendance of public servants of all kinds at the event, like Connie Holt in this photo. In the following photos, the sun is setting quickly and my flash was trying to keep up. I apologize for the strange colors.

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Fun to meet firemen and Sparky.

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A funny story here… I asked ‘Sparky’ if I could take a picture and then went on my way. A young man came up to me and told me that Sparky was actually a former student of mine so I ran back and said hello. Good to see Jason after all these years!

 

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Great costumes and tower of treats!

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The Pigeon Forge Police Department showed me great hospitality and a hot doughnut. Great decorations too!

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Sevier Air and a Ninja manning a trick or treat stop at the Spooktacular.

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It was good to see our SRO from last year, Officer Conrad. He really needs to clean up his squad car though!

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Another former student who works for the Sheriff’s Office. I don’t think that is a Batman uniform though. That is the real deal.

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Local dignitaries supporting the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office Spooktacular event.

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Finally, Stacy Cutshaw’s son wins my vote for the best Halloween costume of the year. This electric chair was so real looking and amazing that I couldn’t stop looking at it. The child was just walking around with it, but it looked like he was sitting in real electric chair. Stacy said that they just used materials around the house and made it themselves. You win! The best costume of 2017!

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The moon was rising over the courthouse as I headed home, but today I heard someone say that there was still a big crowd about 10:00 in the evening. Amazing attendance. There must have been thousands there.

I saw families relaxing and enjoying the evening because they knew that they were in a safe place, with safe treats, and safe activities. It had a great vibe and I enjoyed being there. The great efforts of Sevier County first responders and others made it a night to remember. What a great way to get out and about in Sevierville on October 31st.

See you there next Halloween!

 

 

 

Downtown Sevierville Spooktacular Event: The Bruce Street Area, October 31, 2017

I just saw the biggest crowd in downtown Sevierville. As a result, I think that it was the best thing that I have witnessed downtown. Families and kids of all ages came in droves to attend the Sevier County Spooktacular, presented by the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office. The event was so big that I will have to share it in two parts. This specific blog story will show the Bruce Street area where I started the evening. Tomorrow, I will show the event from Court Avenue and around the Courthouse. What fun! Here is what I saw on Bruce Street.

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I follow the Sheriff’s Office on Facebook so that is how I knew about this event.

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Crowds had already gathered by 6:15 p.m. so I parked behind Sevier County Bank and headed toward the gazebo. Families were strolling by in costumes ready for the evening.

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Church members from Evergreen Church created a ‘trunk-or-treat’ area behind the gazebo for children to trick or treat with their families in a safe, nice environment. I was well impressed with these church members, their manner, and their preparations.

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Each car had a stash of candy and was decorated in a theme. Cool Batman theme.

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This theme was the “Stranger Things”  TV show. I don’t watch this show, but have seen good things about it. This theme makes me want to tune in.

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Very original!

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Beautiful presentation!

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I was sort of embarrassed when I asked them their theme. “Lumberjacks,” they replied. It is so cool though. Look at the dog dressed like a lumberjack too!

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Lumber-pup!

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The caped crusader giving out Halloween candy.

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This station had great props and presence!

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Kudos go to this duo for their production. I didn’t notice if any little kids were afraid of Darth Vader. Will be something to watch for next year.

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Rey, from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

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You could walk through this trailer and reflect on the journey of Jonah in the Bible. It replicates the interior of the fish that swallowed him. Loved it!

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This camping theme had a real fire pit that allowed children to roast marshmallows.

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I was enchanted when I saw how many children enjoyed this stop.

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A trick-or- treater looking at her treasures.

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Evergreen Church families serve the community during the Spooktacular event. They did an incredible job!

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I crossed the street to see Charlotte’s Bruce Street Creative. They were ready for the event.

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Charlotte Wear, owner of Charlotte’s Bruce Street Creative, had some good treats ready to go. See the Snickers on the right? She let me take one to keep my energy up for the evening. Thanks, Charlotte!

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A crowd gathers for treats in front of Charlotte’s store/gallery.

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My friends and I are looking forward to taking some classes in the near future with Charlotte. She offers a variety of art classes. Get on her email list and follow her on Facebook. Here is a link: https://www.facebook.com/Charlottes-Bruce-Street-Creative-318553705267269/

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Bumper to bumper traffic on Bruce Street about 6:45 p.m.

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Setting up for a movie later in the evening. The ladies said they would play “Charlie Brown.” Later, I saw a Scooby Doo movie playing too. Fun!

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A Disney themed car. Look closely…Spiderman is making the cool super-hero fist.

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The Sevier Commons Arts Council was very busy with a ‘make-it-or-take-it’ Halloween project.

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Crowds of excited children gathered to make Halloween themed finger puppets.

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Materials for the finger puppets offered a great variety of ideas.

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A finished finger puppet, held by a ninja.

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Fun presentation of finger puppet ideas.

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The Sevierville Commons Arts Council busy in front of their space on Bruce Street.

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I could see how this event was wonderful for families. It gave them a safe place to walk, explore, create, and to gather treats.

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The sun was setting on Bruce Street as I finished this segment of the Spooktacular event. As I headed toward toward the courthouse, there was much more to see. I will publish that part of my visit tomorrow. Tomorrow, we will see the Sevier County Sheriff’s section of the event. That was a lot of fun while out and about in Sevierville this evening.

Hope you had a great Halloween!

 

Music in Common

Last Friday night, I learned that I need to keep a portable chair in the back of my car in case I need it. What prompted that discovery? I found Music in Common by the Sevierville Commons Arts Council last Friday night and hope to go again very soon.

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The weather was warm and comfortable so it was a pleasure to drop by and hear some music at the downtown Sevierville  gazebo.

IMG_0699Boogertown Gap performed on October 6th.

 

Listeners were treated to music that brought back times from early settlers in the Smoky Mountains.

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I saw people drive by in their cars and slow down to a stop to hear the pretty music coming from the gazebo. It was rather enchanting.

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It is kind of special when you can attend an event downtown on a warm evening. There will be three more Friday performances this month so drop by, relax, and enjoy the music. And consider carrying a chair in the back of your car…

See you out and about in Sevierville. 

 

 

Sevierville Commons Art Crawl 2017

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It was a warm, glorious evening at the Sevierville Commons Art Crawl last week. It is the primary fundraising event so we look forward to it all year. With a wood-working art theme, the event was like a relaxing stroll with food and drink. Stroll along here with us to see what we enjoyed during the Art Crawl 2017.

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This was our first sight on Bruce Street. XXX Moonshine has two locations: Pigeon Forge and Wears Valley. They have a great tent and their vendors are fun to talk to. In addition, Tennessee XXX Moonshine has collaborated with Dark Horse comics, creator of the Hellboy character in print and movies, to produce Hell Boy Hell Water Cinnamon Whiskey. To find out more, click the link below. Amazing things happening with this local distillery.

https://www.send2press.com/wire/hellboy-hell-water-selects-xxx-distillery-llc-of-sevierville-and-pigeon-forge-tennessee/

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Around the corner, we found delights from one of our favorite downtown restaurants: Bistro 109. Owner, Dustin Manning, brought our favorite items on the menu: orange-cranberry chicken salad, hummus with cucumber slices, and sweet potato fries. The table presentation is always beautiful.  We came back for dinner here later. Divine!

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Stefanie Johnson greeted us at the main table and helped us to get acclimated to the event.  We bought our tickets in advance at Citizens National Bank. (I got mine at the Kroger branch because they are open until 7:00 p.m.) After giving her the tickets and showing ID, we received wrist bands and began the evening.

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Next, we ran into Sevierville Commons Arts Council member, Andrea Wilson. I was delighted to see her in this top because we were both wearing Cabi! She knew that and gave me quite a surprise. Fun!

Friday’s restaurant had a nice  treat. I think that it was Jack Daniels chicken. The servings were generous. We also got a coupon for a free appetizer. Good deal!

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Sara serves treats from Courthouse Donuts. Get ready for some new things on the menu there!

Mom’s Vintage Kitchen offered her home-made pumpernickel bread and pimento cheese with a home-made puff. It was probably the best bread and pimento cheese that I have ever had. There were about 5 different kinds of cheeses in that pimento cheese. Oh my!

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Art Crawl attendees enjoying the evening as the sun went down.

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We are always glad to see Healthy Balance at local events because we know that they will bring something good for the body. Skewers with tomato, basil, and mozzarella cheese were a great appetizer.

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David Elrod’s friendly smile always attracts attendees to his tent. His presentation and products always contribute to an enjoyable experience.

Old Forge brought several treats. It is apple time!

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Karen and I inspected the beautiful workmanship in the bowls. They were so smooth and lovely. Woodworking artists Roger Jessup, Ralph Obenauf, Otto Preske, and Jackie and Janis Proffitt were available to answer questions about the items and the craft.

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Old Forge Distillery entertains and refreshes.

We were most impressed with the woodworking items from the Sevierville Senior Center.

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Our favorite item was this piece of wood with a photograph transposed on it. I would love to learn to do this technique. What a magnificent keepsake. The sunset is reflected in it.

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The Shantons enjoy sunset on Bruce Street during the Art Crawl.

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Sugarlands Distillery always brings delightful refreshment to local events. Indeed, it is always a crowd pleaser.

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I was delighted to run into my  Dominican Republic travel friends, the Conerly family. They enjoyed the evening as the sun set on Bruce Street. Sophia is a member of the Sevierville Commons Association and always has exciting updates to share about the revitalization of downtown Sevierville. Stay tuned!

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I wanted to linger at Charlotte Wear’s gallery, Charlotte’s Bruce Street Creative,  but time was limited so I grabbed some fliers with info about her October activities. Can’t wait to go there and create something wonderful next month!

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Old Smoky Moonshine brought a nice punch type of drink. They were friendly and ready to help us have a nice evening.

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I always enjoy the music and ‘vibe’ provided by musician Ross Paul Heatherly.  Ask him to play some Hendrix and you won’t be sorry!

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Austin Williams and Stefanie Johnson thanked vendors and attendees for supporting the 2017 Art Crawl. In addition, they drew the name for a winner of the art door prize. It was one of the beautiful bowls that Karen and I had admired earlier in the evening.

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Shadows are falling as the sun sets on Bruce Street. Jim McGill sits at the table ready to help attendees.

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The Pottery House Cafe is our favorite place in Pigeon Forge. Shrimp and grits, anyone? Oh, yes!

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Karen found water and tea located at the gazebo. Such a pretty place in the evening.

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It was so nice to have more time at the Art Crawl this year. Rather than 8:00, the event ended at 8:30 this year. It was so nice to relax while watching the sun go down on the courthouse bell tower. Kudos to the Sevierville Commons Association and the Sevierville Commons Arts Council for an enjoyable September event. We can’t wait for the next one!

Plan on attending the Art Crawl next year. It is one of my favorite ways to get out and about in Sevierville. 

 

What is going on in Sevierville during Labor Day weekend 2017

Someone used search terms  ” what to do in Sevierville on Labor Day weekend” on my website so I decided to list a few things that I know are going on this weekend. Blog traffic picks up on holidays so here are some suggestions for our visitors this weekend. Most activities are in Sevierville, but a couple are nearby. I used some screenshots to get this blog completed quickly. Here are some local Labor Day activities. 


Check out the Sevierville Commons Farmers Market tomorrow. There will be great vendors with many gift ideas and fresh produce. I have been doing some Christmas shopping there already. 


For the first time, our fair will last nine days and two weekends. This is a wonderful small town fair with food and fun for the whole family. The best food from the booth by Sevierville First United Methodist Church. Step right up! 

Do you like Jeeps? Then this may be for you! 


Something new is opening in Gatlinburg and it looks like fun. 


Labor Day weekend means BBQ. Find some at Bass Pro Shops. 


Bring your lawn chair and snacks to the Sevierville downtown gazebo for a free movie. I love the 80s! 


This may be the greatest thing in town this weekend. Go to the Dollywood website for tickets and more information. 


Go just up the road to enjoy this equestrian event. 


I think that my friend Tad Wynn may attend this event. It is just up Chapman Highway from downtown Sevierville. 


Art is downtown Sevierville. Check out several artist gallerys. This is one of my favorites! 


Find a bargain at Bloomingtales Boutique at 202 Parkway in Sevierville. Proceeds go to to Pets Without Parents, a local no-kill animal shelter. 

Also, find more treasures at Treasures From the Heart thrift store at 230 Court Avenue, Sevierville. 


We have one of the best boutiques in Tennessee. Congratulations to Loralei’s! Find it easily at 1235 Dolly Parton Parkway, Suite 7, Sevierville, Tennessee. 


We also have the best doughnuts in East Tennessee. Go to Courthouse Donuts in downtown Sevierville, across from the courthouse. 

Those are some fun things going on this Labor Day weekend if you get out and about in Sevierville. 

Enjoy the weekend!