I was running late for a noon appointment in Knoxville, but had just enough time to run into Courthouse Donuts and check up on two contestants in their fundraiser for the United Way of Sevier County in advance of the Dancing With the Stars competition next month.
The competition, as I understand it, has two parts. Fund raising and dancing. This a lot for someone to take on so I wanted to stop by and help these two hard working members of the community who have a long history supporting the United Way of Sevier County.
Parking is so easy on Saturday mornings. I parked in front of the new yoga studio and walked around the corner to Courthouse Donuts for the fundraiser. Courthouse Donuts is the heart of downtown Sevierville, in my opinion, so that was a good place to be this morning.
When I arrived around 11:00 a.m., the competitors were a whirlwind of energy. Pictured left to right: Marcie Shrandt with dance contestants Mike Comer, and Jaclyn Kile.
I knew that $5 from each order of a dozen doughnuts went to the fundraiser so I looked at the menu to make a decision. An assortment was the easy option. I just looked at the last line on the menu and will order that next time!
Jennifer Dyer was busy preparing the treats for all customers. She is a strong supporter of multiple organizations in Sevier County.
Amy Barnett showing her support for the Comer/Kile team at the fundraiser.
As I picked up my order, many people were starting to line up for their donuts too.
Team Kile/Comer supporters from left to right: Amy Barnett, Amy Harper, Jodie Everhart, and Marcie Schrandt.
It was time for me to run so I took one last look at the activity behind the counter. I asked the team if they have danced before. Mike Comer replied, “hell, no!” Asked if he would do it again? The same answer! For those reasons alone, I think that it would be great fun to attend the main event next month!
Jaclyn Kile and Mike Comer have been practicing for their performance 2-3 times a week in addition to fund raising for the United Way. I can’t think of anyone better to win the mirror ball for dancing or the fundraising award for the United Way of Sevier County.
I attended the first Progressive Dinner presented by the United Way of Sevier County last year so I knew that it was going to be a nice evening. I met Sophia and Janice in front of Courthouse Donuts at 5:30 and we were on our way. It was a laid back, relaxing evening and a rare chance to visit Bruce Street in the evening. Follow along and enjoy with us…
We met at the gazebo on Bruce Street to begin the evening with fellow supporters of the United Way.
Healthy appetizers were plentiful and tasty.
Festive decorations revealed one of my favorite things to found at these events— delightful little chocolate covered moonshine candies. Only Sophia and Janice could tell you how excited I became to see these treats. They are delightful!
It was good to see friends supporting the United Way from both sides of the table. It was a pleasure to talk to Terry here. The table could not have been prettier and the hosts could not have been friendlier. I highly recommend the Old Forge Old Fashion.
Old Forge consistently offers high quality service and cocktails at Sevier County events. However, they had more to offer later. Well done!
We love Greek food so these appetizers were quite nice. Great choice!
At 6:00, we were called to order and thanked for supporting the United Way of Sevier County. Next, it was explained how to split into two groups for the next dinner courses.
My group crossed the street to have a salad course at the Arts in Common Gallery.
We really enjoyed the fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad from Healthy Balance restaurant. Also, we enjoyed the visual treats beheld in the gallery. So many beautiful things. You must visit soon!
Our next course was served a few doors down at the Sevierville Heritage Museum. The food was so good that I tried to replicate it today in my crock pot.
It was fun to wander around see things in the Heritage Museum. You could easily stay for a couple of hours on your first visit.
Sevierville Alderman and Sevierville Commons Board member, Jim McGill, and Sophia Conerly, also a Sevierville Commons board member, enjoying the displays.
This exhibit was interesting. I danced on the Cas Walker Show when I was 6 years old. Twice. I hope no one reads that sentence.
Look at the prices on this old flyer in the Heritage Museum.
Who remembers these Green Stamp books?
I love nightfall on Bruce Street with the tent illuminated for dinner!
Dinner was very good and made me start thinking of the holidays coming next month.
Janice Sorrell and Sophia Conerly enjoyed the tent in the cool weather before dinner.
Harriet Berrier and Fran enjoy the Progressive Dinner. After a long career as an educator and principal, Harriet is running for the office of school board. Don’t forget to vote!
Wine service during dinner.
There were many young people who contributed to this event, as well as in attendance. Pictured left to right: Sierra Williams, Austin Williams, Katie Williams, Emma and Thomas Newman.
I took a picture of Sophia taking a picture after dinner. We shared a table with Jim McGill, his wife, and more.
Elise Massey helps with the S’mores table by Courthouse Donuts. We got to make our own and they were a nice finish to dinner.
This event was really enjoyable due to the efforts of many people, particularly those pictured above. Pictured left to right: Katie Williams, Amy Harper, Sierra Williams, and Elise Massey.
A cigar bar was available for those who wanted to indulge, or just stock up for the golf course.
Dinner success was guaranteed with United Way Board member Elise Massey and her husband on the scene. I saw them working hard and appreciated their efforts!
My favorite thing about the dinner may be the outdoor fireplace–and it photographs beautifully. See what I mean? Sierra and Katie take the chill off at the fireside.
By 9:00, it was time to go home and get ready for the next day. This event was so nice because it was laid back, relaxing, and fun—all at the same time. The start time of 5:30 allowed people to transition from work to the event while enjoying both sunlight and sunset on Bruce Street. The restaurants are always good and have served as a dynamic force in downtown for years so I am always glad to see their fare at events. Bravo to Bistro 109, Healthy Balance, and Courthouse Donuts.
Thanks also go to event sponsors.
My friends and I have enjoyed the United Way Progressive Dinner for two consecutive years and look forward to attending again. I believe that they have everything down for efficiency and maximum enjoyment—plus, you know that you are helping at least 17 groups in our community that are served by the United Way. See a list of them at this link:
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’ Â 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. Â Â Â https://www.facebook.com/SassafrasOldMill/
Here is a link to the Old Mill. Â You could eat at the Old Mill and spend hours in that area.
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/
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.Â
A lot has happened in Sevierville this year so I tried to capture some moments with this blog/website. I used Google Analytics to create the list for the most popular posts of 2017 for the blog Out and About in Sevierville. The analytics track each story by readers and then maintain a running total. Here is the list of the most read stories on the blog this year from number 10 to 1. Will your favorite make the list?
#10
SCHS Foundation 5K : Turkey Chase 2017
It was cold and it was fun! We will do it every year. Thanks to the SCHS Foundation and Nancy Trundle Hewitt.
#9
United Way Progressive Dinner, November 2017
This was a new event and one of the best of 2017. Can’t wait until next year.
#8
Sevierville Commons Arts Council Launches Blast Off Event
This July event helped to launch the Sevierville Commons Arts Council in the new space downtown. We can’t wait to see what they do there in the future.
#7Â
An Early Visit to a Sevierville Tradition: Sims Barbershop
It was so early, but I knew that I was going to a special place. Jayson Nave served as my navigator. Sims Barbershop is so full of history! Walk in just to say hello to this friendly Sevierville barber.
#6Â
Downtown Sevierville Spooktacular Event: The Bruce Street Area
I had never been to this event before and didn’t realize what a wonderful family outing it would be. For that, I am not surprised to see it show up at number six on the list by Google Analytics. This blog story was part 1, near the Bruce Street area and the gazebo.
#5Â
First Downtown Sevierville Farmer’s Market of the Season, May 26th, 2017
The opening of the Sevierville Commons Farmer’s Market signals that summer is near. Music, food, produce, soaps, jewelry, treasures—you can find it all here.
#4
Shopping at Bloomingtales Boutique in Downtown Sevierville
I love this little thrift boutique just across the street from downtown Sevierville. Proceeds benefit Pets Without Parents. Go visit the resident cat, Maddie, and find something special.
#3
I Am Dreaming of a Mural in Downtown Sevierville
Murals can be economic boosters for downtowns and promote the arts at the same time. We found the perfect spot for one here in Sevierville. Go to this blog story to see more.
#2
Sevier County Sherriff’s Office Spooktacular Event: Courthouse Area
This outing caught me by surprise. It was the most epic event of the year. This story was the second part of my evening visit, near the courthouse area. Good fun!
#1
A Grand Event: Night at the Derby 2017Â
Night at the Derby must be the best fund raiser of the year; in addition, it is a favorite party of the year for many. You can’t have more fun than this while helping 16 local agencies. The United Way has served our county since 1983. Don’t miss it next year!
These are the top 10 stories of 2017 for Out and About in Sevierville.
What will 2018 bring?
What would you like to see as a story on the blog?
Stay tuned as the 2018 New Year arrives and we go out and about in Sevierville.Â
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.
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.
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.
The Sevierville Casual Pint brought a sample of the New Belgium Accumulation White IPA.
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.
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.
United Way Board member, Elise Collier-Massey, preparing for the event with her husband Beau Massey.
Dustin Manning, owner of Bistro 109, chatting with Leesa and Jim McGill.
Sierra Williams and Elise Collier-Massey ready to greet guests.
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.
United Way Board member, Vonda Cash, with Sophia Conerly, a Sevierville Commons board member.
Cheri and Al Schmutzer ready for the evening. They were also celebrating an anniversary. Congratulations to them!
This handout explains the procedures for the evening. People just voluntarily divided into two groups and it went quite smoothly.
Appetizers from Bistro 109 were perfect! These kabobs were healthy and easy to handle during the cocktail hour.
You become proud when one of your former students goes to the Tennessee House of Representatives. This is Tennessee State Representative Andy Farmer.
Mike Comer, United Way Vice Chair, thanks attendees and explains the procedures for the evening. Board member, Austin Williams, is pictured behind him.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Emily Whaley also enjoys the soup at our second stop on the progressive dinner.
We finished the soup course then proceeded outside to the tent. It was an elegant presentation on Bruce Street for the evening.
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.
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
Here is a video clip of Kirk Fleta singing the first song of the evening, by James Taylor.
Montay Calloway, branch manager at U.S. Bank, chats by the fire pit with a fellow supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.
Mixologists from Old Forge Distillery are always friendly and ready to serve.
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!
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.
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
A sweet tooth will love the Cherry Crumble cake from Courthouse Donuts.
Lauren Chesney from King University and another supporter of the United Way of Sevier County.
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.
Also enjoying the United Way Progressive Dinner are Danielle King, Mariah Farmer, and Rachelle Shults.
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!
Alas, all good fun must come to an end for I had an early call at work the next morning. Â 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.Â
You may remember my previous story about a visit last Friday from Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund and his brother Oakley. I was just walking to the famers market and there they were! Mayor Waters came out to welcome them to the city. I texted Anita that I would be a few minutes late.
The dogs and their owners spent the week in Sevier County and then did a book signing in Knoxville on Saturday. Such cute pups and well behaved!
Next, I met Anita at Courthouse Donuts for coffee, but there was there was not much time to chat. By 11:30, time was passing quickly for the market closes at 1:00. We were off to the market.
First stop, the ‘make-it-and take-it’ booth, sponsored by the Sevierville Commons Arts Council.
I tried my hand at screen printing a t-shirt. I chose hot pink animal paws on a white T-shirt. There was also a jewelry making table and more. It was free and very busy.Â
People created a design on their shirt then let it dry while they shopped. This was the last “make-it-and-take-it” opportunity for the year. Council members obtained grants to provide the sessions this summer. If you are a business and would like to help them provide more sessions this summer, just contact the Sevierville Commons Art Council. Here is a link to their website and contact info:Â https://www.seviervillecommonsartscouncil.org
These kids loved the ‘make-it-and-take-it’ booths at the farmers market. Look at the necklaces that they made! I admired them and wished that I had time to make one too. Their mother and I do HIIT classes together at NFC.
We saw our friend, Gina Davis. She had bought a basil plant because some kind of wildlife has been eating the basil at her home.
My favorite things at the farmers market!
A downtown worker taking a break and walking through the market.
I like this vendor from Grainger County. Always friendly.
Sophia Conerly, member of the Sevierville Commons Association talking with Jim McGill, Membership Co-Ordinator for the Chamber of Commerce.
I saw a lot of Methodists downtown last Friday!
More shoppers enjoying the market.
No music in the gazebo last week. Only the sound of a chain saw working it’s magic.
I missed the chain saw artist at work, but hope to catch him again in the future. These bears are adorable!
There is a new creative space on Bruce Street and it is good! Stay tuned to my next blog story for more about Charlotte’s Creative Space, by local artist, Charlotte Wear.
Jim McGill, Chamber of Commerce Membership Co-Ordinator, is happy to see busy vendors and shoppers downtown.
The plants downtown have never been more beautiful!
A new restaurant is going into the Fox Building and it is going to be exciting. There will be a back patio, as seen in the drawing posted in this window. This is one of the best restaurants in Market Square in Knoxville, but there is a usually a long wait for a table. It is coming to our town soon. Stay tuned for more info!
I noticed a new corporate office downtown.
On the way to another store, Melinda and I ran into Amy Harper, Executive Director of the United Way of Sevier County. Amy asked if we wanted to come up to see their office. And what a nice space it is!
 I loved her view of the courthouse. She often sees people/tourists/visitors taking pictures at the Dolly Parton statue and has the perfect view from her window. Wonderful natural light coming in through the windows.
Amy Harper and Emily Whaley in the United Way office. Emily just chaired the Night at the Derby fundraiser last April. Make sure you go next year!
In the meantime, get ready for Drums on Dam, part 2 !
I barely had time to do everything on my agenda so next week I will plan on arriving much earlier to the downtown Sevierville farmers market. It was a busy Friday while we were out and about in Sevierville. See you there!
There was a grand fete in town last Friday evening to benefit the United Way of Sevier County. Â After attending it last year, this has become one of my favorite events of the year. Come along as I show you why Night At the Derby has become a favorite with my friends and I.
First, the red carpet sets the tone for a special evening.
Upon arrival, you must first find a table on the patio. Then, start making plans for your wagers and races. I was too busy working on this report so I was only able to participate in the last race, putting all my funny money on three horses. I got a third place!
Next, you will see fun Derby hats and ensembles. Jennifer Dyer’s hat was a favorite!
Our first snack was the Tennessee Brown from Courthouse Donuts. So good!
Marcie Schrandt and Mike Comer, a board member of the United Way of Sevier County.
This cheesecake from the Diner is probably worth the ticket price itself!
Alison Ragsdale, a board member, and Amy Harper, Executive Director of the United Way of Sevier County.
Emily Whaley, event Chair; Jaclyn Kile, and Brenda McCroskey enjoying the festivities inDerby finery.
So many good things to eat!
The Shanton’s preparing to take a Derby photo at the photo booth. That was really fun because you could choose the background, preview it, and it was printed on the spot. The photo was included in the ticket price. So much fun!
I was so happy to meet Linda Ogle and her adorable friend! Both support the United Way.
One our favorites was there—-Healthy Balance. Sheeley Rose will be disappointed that she missed that.
The best chocolates that I have ever had in my life. You need to seek these out. However, you probably will not be able to share them at work.
Several Sevier County distilleries were present at the event and adding to the fun.
Jessy Hardy’s  magnolia hat was one of my favorites!
The Wilderness gourmet crew was ready to impress—and they certainly did! Pictured from left to right:Â Michael Russo- Executive Chef, Ricardo Rojas- Director of Culinary Operations, Lishia Lira- Mountain Market Deli Manager, Penny Dixson- F&B Manager.
Sophia and Keith Connerly with Pinkie Mistry.
Ashley Burnette, Jennifer Dyer, and Angie Taylor wearing beautiful Derby hats while supporting the United Way.
Jane Howes, Senior Center Director, wins for pure creativity!
Cheri and Al Schmutzer enjoying the races while supporting the United Way of Sevier County.
Bryan and Anna McCarter in Derby attire!
Larry Sorrell and Todd Thompson. Thompson was the auctioneer and gave us some tips before the bidding began.
This whole look was just stunning. Jackie Thurman, dressed in Derby best, Â while supporting the United Way.
This trip looked amazing!
I have never seen Dale Carr in an auction—and it was fun to watch. I didn’t bid this year, but was tempted by several trips.
I loved my hat from Sassafras at the Old Mill!
The guy on the left is a Distiller at the Old Forge Distillery at the Old Mill. Isaac Lindsey also used to be in my class. I didn’t recognize him at first. You can run into lots of people at this event!
Pinkie Mistry, Sophia Connerly, and Michael Maddron.
My favorite restaurant presentation was this one by Bistro 109. The decorations by DGarden were exquisite. The food was divine! Chicken salad croissants, fruit salad, fruit kabobs, and pecan chicken. It was absolutely incredible! That is what I enjoyed for dinner at the Derby. Â Dustin Manning outdid himself for this event. Visit Bistro 109 downtown Sevierville soon.
In summary, it may have been my favorite Night at the Derby yet. There was a generous selection of food, treats, and beverages from which to choose so you may be overwhelmed, but will recover quickly. The races are exciting to watch. The auctions are tempting. Ultimately, ticket prices are affordable and you MORE than get your money’s worth, while helping one of the hardest working charities in town. Plan to attend next year! It is a fabulous way to get out and about in Sevierville.
The United Way of Sevier County presented the Derby Ladies Hat Social on Thursday, April 6 at Courthouse Donuts for those who were interested in finding a beautiful ‘chapeau’ to wear at A Night at the Derby on April 28th. A ‘pop up’ hat shop was put into place for the hat social. Â Derby finger foods and beverages were ready to serve at the event. My friends and I dropped by last year and ended up having a grand time at the hat social. This is what we experienced this year.
Beautiful hats from Sassafras were on display ready to be tried on and admired. Sassafras is our favorite store in the Old Mill area in Pigeon Forge. In fact, we always go there after dining at the Old Mill Pottery House. Everyone needs to go there! Here is a link to the store. http://www.old-mill.com/info/sassafras
Refreshments!
My friends and I knew from last year the best things to do at the hat social. Here is what you need to know if you want the best selection of hats. These are our recommendations!
Arrive as soon as the event begins. Set your purses down on a table and go straight back to the hats. Wear a color that you may be wearing to the Derby event to help select the best hat.
When you find a hat that you fancy, do not put it down! Keep it in hand and use the other hand to try on a few more hats. Try on many hats. Ask Donna Roland which one looks best and you will be sure to look good.
Witness the ‘hat protection’ technique in this picture.
I didn’t select the hat I am wearing in this picture because it overpowered my features. Â I eventually selected the white one in my hand. Donna Roland, pictured left, assured me that it was the one for me. Learn more about Donna Roland from her website. She is an expert in Sevier County on fashion. Her website it beautiful!
Here is a link. Â http://www.donnaroland.com/site/
See, the photo above is blurry due to our speed at grabbing potential Derby hats!
I loved Joan Saas and her April themed hat. What a festive touch she brought to the event!
Our friend, Sophia Connerly, found her hat quite quickly. Love it!
I admired this hat and Pat Willoughby carries it with panache!
All these ladies looked smashing. Loved the little one so much! She was delightful.
Karen found the perfect hat for her immediately. Â She bought this one.
Our gracious hostesses, Emily Whaley and Jackie Leatherwood.
I enjoyed meeting Joan Saas, Jan Lapides, and Pat Willoughby. They are Derby ready!
These ladies were stunning in their hats and attire. Pictured are Stephanie Postlewaite and Jennifer Duerer. Stephanie’s grandfather started the Mountain Press newspaper in Sevier County decades ago. I’ll bet there are some amazing stories there.
Ashley Burnette and Janice Bettis enjoying the event and supporting the United Way of Sevier County.
Marvel Sewell, Laurie Faulkner, and Donna Huffaker manning the Sassafras table and supporting the United Way of Sevier County.
After shopping, time to chat!
Members of the United Way of Sevier County getting ready for A Night at the Derby on Friday, April 28th. Pictured left to right are Amy Harper, Executive Director; Emily Whaley, Chair for A Night at the Derby; Kat Ogle, board member; and Jackie Leatherwood, board member.
Executive Director, Amy Harper addresses attendees and explains how the April 28th event will benefit 15 agencies in Sevier County.
And finally, the hat for me. My Facebook friends helped me to select from two hats. This one was the winner 2 to 1 on my social media poll.
You can buy your tickets now for A Night at the Derby, sponsored by Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede. Here is a link to the Facebook event page. https://www.facebook.com/NightattheDerby/
Here is a direct link to the webpage where you can buy tickets.
 http://anightatthederby.com
We attended A Night at the Derby last year and were quite impressed. That event, and the Hat Social, were two of my favorite things last year. Check my blog archives here to read  about the event last year. It is well worth the ticket price. In fact, you more than get your money’s worth—but, after all, it is a donation to the United Way of Sevier County. This organization helps over 15 organizations in our county, one of the most important charitable groups here.
See you at the Derby event on Friday, April 28th. It is a truly fun way to get out and about in Sevierville.Â
Here is part 2 of  my story on the First Responders Challenge event held yesterday at Sevier County High School. What an exciting event for the whole family! The following pictures and videos will give you a look at one of the best events of the year in Sevierville.
Fun introductions by Bryan McCarter as teams enter the stadium for competition. My favorite intro was for the Sevier County Sherrif’s Department, but I couldn’t catch it in time on my camera. The fighting Hosses’? Â Love all the intros.
Here are some pictures that I took quickly before the competitions began. (Message me if you see any errors.)
Hard charging Pigeon Forge Police Department was the winning team of the day. Gold!
Knoxville Police Department represented Knoxvegas well, winning a Bronze medal.
Defending champions from last year, the Alcoa Fire Department.
Pigeon Forge Fire Department
Sevierville Police and Fire, nicknamed  “Holsters and Hoses.” (One of my favorite teams to watch.)
Pittman Center Fire Department
Tug-of-War is fierce!
Police vs Fire for Pigeon Forge.
More strong competition in Tug-of-War.
The obstacle course covers most of the field and provides a lot of excitement!
Teamwork to get everyone over top. A big drop down to the other side.
Approaching the obstacle course.
The guy in the back crossed that high wall well. I was rooting for him!
Sevierville Police and Fire show how to cross the wall.
A lot of speed in the video below. Did someone run track in high school?
John Hutchens’ former track students?
Kyle Grainger from WVLT Channel 8
Michael Maddron, coach, pictured left. Bryan McCarter, announcer, center. SCHS track and event coach, Â John Hutchens.
The maze trail is contained within a large truck. The contestants do not know anything about the inside design and it is completely dark. And small spaces! I could see how they bump their helmets on walls and things. I believe the event is timed. To me, this would be the hardest thing of all the events!
Look at the small opening in the bottom right. Very small. Full gear and oxygen tanks add more weight too.
Officer Akers works out at my gym. I asked why he wasn’t competing, but he said that he was scheduled to work. If he competes next year then look out because he works out hard at NFC.
Part of the Shults family outside the Sevier County High School stadium. I think that the sign above applies well to them. My friend Darlene is pictured in the cranberry color. Event Chairman, John Matthews, is pictured to the far right.
Have you ever seen anyone pulling a fire truck loaded with 1,000 gallons of water?
Timed event. Must pull to cones. Coach Hutchens calling the times!
A tough team here too!
I had to leave soon after the fire truck pull due to an appointment, but will make sure that I can stay until the end next year. This looked very interesting. A huge container of water with a ladder across the top.
In conclusion, the theme of the day was ‘overcoming obstacles.‘ Justin Shults wrote about overcoming obstacles in his life as an essay topic when he applied for a scholarship. First responders overcome obstacles every day. The United Way of Sevier County helps to fund over 15 community groups to help others overcome obstacles. It was a common thread throughout the day.
I ended my visit on an uplifting note. It was a good moment to see the Shults family honoring Justin and Stephanie Shults.
It is obvious that our community loves this family.
I may have found the best event of the year. It is free, family friendly, involves athleticism, bravery, and obstacles. Welcome to the Smoky Mountain First Responders Challenge 2016, presented by the United Way of Sevier County.
The morning was fun, inspiring, and motivating to all ages. The Mountain Press covered the event well in today’s Sunday edition so I will it to them to tell the major details. Event pictures and video are abundant on the Facebook page for Smoky Mountain First Responders Challenge so make sure you go over there to see the competition. Here, I will act as a digital storytellerand share what I observed in my time at this event. This story is expansive so I must cover it in two parts.  Here is what I saw at the beginning of the day…
First responders on location.
Helpers for the day.
Event coaches. Michael Maddron is ready.
I entered just as the event began. Plenty of parking and seats so bring the whole family next year.
The Smoky Mountain First Responders Challenge 2016 began with a tribute to two young people who were lost in the March 22 bombing in the Brussels airport. As we know, Justin Shults was from Gatlinburg. You can see the picture of Justin and Stephanie Shults in the photo above. Some of the proceeds at this event will fund a scholarship in their names for a student at Gatlinburg -Pittman High School. Applicants must write an essay on the topic of obstacles that they have overcome, like Justin Shults wrote about when he attended high school.
At the exact moment that the tribute to Justin and Stephanie Shults ended, I noticed two groups of Canadian geese flying overhead in a ‘V’ formation. The geese were loudly making noise, Â as if saluting as they flew. Â I don’t know if anyone else noticed this moment, but it seemed like a supernatural tribute from the sky, punctuating the one going on below on the football field. Time seemed to stand still for a moment.
Singing of the National Anthem.
United Way of Sevier County Executive Director, Amy Harper, pictured on the right. Rhonda Bletner, from the Moutain Press, pictured center. Her article in today’s Sunday edition was very comprehensive. Buy one before they are gone!
Bryan McCarter was the announcer for the day. I have heard him announce many ballgames at Carson Newman University, but the humor really came out for this event. From the team introductions to the timed events, his comments had us chuckling all day. A really talented sports announcer!
Coaches for competitions. Michael Maddron, pictured right, is ready for the games to begin.
Teams lining up and listening to how the day will go. I know that adrenaline was pumping!
Ready for Tug-o-War.
Obstacle course wall and tunnel. That wall was high!
Touring the course. Reviewing the rules.
Michael Maddron coaching teams for the obstacle course. (I wanted to sneak over to the stadium today to try to climb the big wall, but I think that they put it away. Maybe next year…)
And then the games were ready to begin at the Hardin-Robertson Field at Sevier County High School. A wonderful school and a great place to hold this event. (Go Bears!)
Stay tuned for Part 2 of this story. I should publish it later this evening. It will contain more pictures, stories, and a few videos of the event. It is just too big to cover in one story.
See more pictures on this blog’s Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1254469567899261/
The Smoky Mountain First Responders Challenge by the United Way of Sevier County was a super charged way to get out and about in Sevierville.Â
You may remember my previous story about a visit last Friday from Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund and his brother Oakley. I was just walking to the famers market and there they were! Mayor Waters came out to welcome them to the city. I texted Anita that I would be a few minutes late.
My favorite things at the farmers market!
I saw a lot of Methodists downtown last Friday!
 I loved her view of the courthouse. She often sees people/tourists/visitors taking pictures at the Dolly Parton statue and has the perfect view from her window. Wonderful natural light coming in through the windows.
A tough team here too!
Out and About in Sevierville 