Category: Community

Tackle Tailgate Season

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Selecting Your Spot

Tailgating is a city-wide activity, which means that while there may be plenty of room for everyone, selecting your spot requires planning. This is especially true if you hope to tailgate on campus or near the stadium.

To help you navigate the area, familiarize yourself with the University of Tennessee’s parking and transit services website. You’ll find a wealth of information and resources that outline private versus public lots on campus during the football season. They also provide a map that shows designated parking areas for specific groups such as donors and others, which you can reference to get a bird’s eye view of potential tailgate spots.

Planning Your Menu

Food is arguably the most important – and memorable – part of any tailgate. While you can never go wrong with the classic dips and grilled favorites, planning your spread can be daunting.

The easiest way to relieve some of the pressure is to ask for help. There are plenty of simple tailgate recipes out there and requesting that your guests bring a dish to share with the group is a great way to get everyone involved. Plus, it’s a sure way to create a diverse spread with tons of treats to choose from.

On the other hand, some prefer to take on menu planning alone, and that’s okay too. If you want to land yourself a spot in the tailgate food Hall of Fame, here are some recipes you might consider serving.

PURPLE POTATO SALAD

It’s probably best to avoid this one when we’re playing LSU – wouldn’t want anyone to think you’re cheering for the wrong team! For other gamedays though, this purple potato salad is a great way to add some color to your tailgate table. Combine purple fingerling potatoes with garlic, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil until the potatoes are tender. After about 7 to 10 minutes, add red onion and cook for another minute. You’ll then drain and discard the garlic and allow everything to cool. From there, whisk together some more apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt, and mix in mayo, sour cream, and horseradish. Finish it all off by adding celery and pickles, as well as fresh dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.

BUFFALO CHICKEN GRILLED BRIE

This twist on a crowd favorite will be the talk of your tailgate. Just toss together some shredded chicken and buffalo wing sauce and slice off the top rind of a wheel of brie. Place it on some foil and top with the chicken and some celery. Then, close the foil, leaving room in the packet, and grill over medium-low heat until the cheese is soft. After about 8 minutes, unwrap and top with blue cheese dressing and scallions.

COWBOY CAVIAR

Whether you’ve never heard of it before or have been making it for years, cowboy caviar is become a wildly popular recipe that’s perfect for tailgates. It combines fresh ingredients like tomatoes, red onion, black beans, corn, bell peppers, jalapeno, cilantro, and scallions, all tossed together in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. This is one of the simplest yet tastiest appetizers, and the best part is that there are tons of variations you can try. No matter what twist you take, serve it with tortilla chips and soon you’ll have the entire tailgate in awe.

Cheering On The Vols At Home

Tailgating at home can be just as exciting as it is on campus, and you can create an atmosphere that rivals being right outside the stadium. If you’re skeptical, consider the perks of an at-home event like the ability to avoid crowded city streets, overall comfortability, and not having to take all your party favors on-the-go. Here’s some tips to help you host a first-rate tailgate from your very own home.

Decorate Your Space

Set the stage for your tailgate with tasteful decorations that match the gameday spirit. You can either buy pre-made accents or create some do-it-yourself (DIY) pieces. Either way, make sure your decorations coincide with your favorite team’s colors – which we hope is orange and white!

CONSIDER CATERING

Cross some items off your tailgate to-do list by using a caterer for your event. Some only provide food and drinks, but others may offer delivery, set up, and take down service. Depending on how much help you think you’ll need, there are plenty of catering options to choose from including chain restaurants like Chipotle and local favorites such as Calhoun’s.

KEEP GUESTS ENTERTAINED

When you’re not watching the game, keep guests entertained by setting up activities and games that everyone can enjoy. Whether you break out the cornhole boards or giant Jenga set, everyone will remember the fun they had at your tailgate.
‘Tis the season for tailgating, and with these tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be able to tackle it like a pro.

Holiday Gift Guide (For Everyone On Your List)

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The holidays are about much more than the presents under the tree, but there’s no denying the joy that comes with giving and unwrapping a truly thoughtful gift from a loved one. Nonetheless, it isn’t always easy to know exactly what to give some of your family and friends. The following gift guide might give you some inspiration and help you to find something special for everyone on your list.  

For The Host 

Selecting a gift for the host of your holiday gathering is one thing, but what about for those family members or friends who love to entertain year-round? Gifts for the host typically include wine, soaps, and kitchen gadgets, but this year is the perfect time to think outside-the-box and give them something they can cherish forever. 

Bar Cart Details

Bar carts have become a popular piece in homes everywhere, and especially ones that are decorated with bottles and cocktail tools that reflect the homeowner’s style. For the host in your life, chances are the details on their bar cart don’t just look amazing, but are also practical items they might use frequently when entertaining guests. Some gifts you might consider adding to their collection this holiday season include cocktail stirrers made of elegant glass, a wine decanter to sit beautifully atop their bar cart or counter, or unique glassware that stands out from the typical crystal.  

Cooking Class

Getting to spend quality time with a friend or family member while learning a new culinary skill is the perfect gift for the chef in your life. You can gift them a cooking class at one of Knoxville’s cooking schools like The Cutting Edge, where you can take a class on everything from classical French seafood to savory and sweet doughnuts.  

 

For The Chef

The chef of the group may often seem like the easiest person to shop for, but there are only so many kitchen gadgets, dinnerware, and samplers out there. Stray away from the typical “chef’s gifts” this season and consider what else may really brighten their holiday season.  

Personalized Recipe Binder

Show your support for the chef in your life’s passion by gifting them a personalized binder for them to house their favorite recipes. Whether they are looking for a place to save grandma’s chocolate chip cookie recipe, or to tuck away their notes on how to make the perfect mac n cheese, a recipe binder will be a treasured item they’ll go to time and time again. You can curate the perfect binder with their initials, an image of their favorite dish, or a Julia Child’s quote – local companies like Make it Yours will help design the perfect personalized item. 

For The Health & Wellness Guru 

Gifting items or experiences that help the health and wellness guru in your life get the most out of their self-care will be treasured. Everyone’s version of self-care looks a little different, so consider the activities that the person in your life enjoys the most.

Exercise And Adventure 

If the health and wellness guru in your life loves exercising and spending time in nature, they’ll love the outings offered by local companies like the Knoxville Adventure Collective. Gift them a guided e-bike tour, a kayak trip down the Tennessee river, or a mountain biking class.  

 

Relax And Rewind 

Taking care of your mind and spirit is a key part of health and wellness. To help the health and wellness guru in your life channel their inner Zen you can gift a relaxing massage, acupuncture, or an afternoon at a spa like Wake Foot Sanctuary.  

For The Jetsetter 

The person in your life that’s always off to the next adventure likely has their travel essentials down pat, but you can give unique items that will remind them of where they’ve been and keep their wanderlust alive while they are enjoying time at home.  

 

Knoxville’s Fall Festivities

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If there’s any town that knows how to celebrate the fall season, it’s Knoxville, and there are plenty of upcoming events and happenings to prove it. Here’s a look at what’s in store for this year’s autumn calendar.  

2022 Knoxville Film Festival  

The Knoxville Film Festival is a glittering celebration of the art of independent cinema. With 2022 marking its 19th year, the event has become the largest and most complete film festival in the region. Featuring a panel discussion, two filmmaking competitions, and of course, screenings of independent films, the Knoxville Film Festival is one to add to your fall agenda this year. Tickets are available for purchase online now. 

When

Sept. 16th – 18th, 2022 

Where

Regal Downtown West Cinema 8  

Website

https://www.knoxfilmfest.com  

24th Annual Fall Festival at Maple Lane Farms  

Marking its 24th year, Maple Lane Farms will open its locally famous Corn Maze and other seasonal favorites on the evening of September 30th. This year’s unveiling is especially exciting as it’s a commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the 1982 World’s Fair. Guests will be able to navigate the Sunsphere shaped Maze all the way through October 31st.  

When

Sept. 30th – Oct. 31st, 2022 

Where

Maple Lane Farms 

Website

https://tnmaplelanefarms.com/#  

2022 Water Lantern Festival  

The Water Lantern Festival is coming to Knoxville. Enjoy a magical night that includes food, games, activities, music, and the beauty of thousands of lanterns adorned with letters of love, hope, and dreams reflected upon the water. It’s the perfect way to spend a crisp fall evening.  

When

Oct. 1st, 2022, from 4:30pm – 8:30pm 

Where

Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center 

Website

https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/knoxville.php 

Keith Urban: The Speed of Now World Tour 

Country music lovers, this one’s for you. Keith Urban is bringing his Speed of Now Tour to Thompson-Boling Arena, making for an exciting start to the season. Special guests include Tyler Hubbard and Ingrid Andress.  

When

Oct. 14th, 2022, at 7pm 

Where

Thompson-Boling Arena 

Website

https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1B005CC3CC6A69EE 

 

2022 Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade & Pet Expo 

The Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade & Pet Expo is a Knoxville favorite, and everyone is looking forward to the cuteness. Catering to our dog-loving community, this year’s parade will promote the invaluable resource of its sponsors, UT Gardens and UT College of Veterinary Medicine, as well as many other nonprofits and businesses in our area. Everyone is invited to enjoy a judged costume parade, an expo of educational booths, pet businesses and rescue groups, food trucks, and more. The event will also include a pet food drive to benefit Companion Animal Initiative of Tennessee (CAIT). Attendance is free, but there is a small fee for parade participants.  

When

Oct. 23rd, 2022, from 1pm – 5pm 

Where

The UT Gardens, Knoxville 

Website

https://utgardens.tennessee.edu/locations/knoxville/special-events-knoxville/howloween/  

Entertain Like an Expert

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Now is the time to up your entertainment game. It goes without saying that a lot has changed in how we socialize over the years, but 2023 will be all about getting back to our old, less distant ways. With the following expert advice in mind, you can become the go-to host for gatherings this year.  

 

Small, Intimate Soirees 

According to Amber Mayfield, founder of To Be Hosted and While Entertaining magazine, packed parties are a thing of the past. Events such as intimate dinner parties, casual game nights, and small watch parties are a more approachable way of getting your closest friends and family together. When building your guest list, prioritize quality over quantity. Keeping it small will allow for genuine connection, conversation, and memories that will last a lifetime.  

 

Elaborate Tablescapes 

Minimizing your guest list doesn’t mean you have to downsize your style. In fact, entertaining expert Joanna Buchanan, says that eye-catching tablescapes and décor should be at the forefront of your next event. This is an opportunity to make a statement and get creative. Themes and seasonal moments are a great place to start, but when it comes to the individual elements you choose to include, think beyond the basics.   

Experimental Menus 

The cuisine served in entertainment settings can potentially make or break an event. Classic dinner parties won’t be going anywhere anytime soon, but Mayfield predicts passed hors d’oeuvres and creative culinary experiences will begin to take center stage.  

From interactive stations to “build your own” food options, the future of event cuisine will be all about making your menu an experience in its own right – and the same goes for drinks too. According to Mayfield, bars will become more innovative all-around with a longer list of unique beverages to try.  

 

It’s likely been awhile since you last planned an event, but with new ideas and perspective in mind, you can become the go-to host for gatherings this year.  

Hostess Gifts (That are Sure to Make You the “Guest of Honor”)

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The hostess of the holidays deserves a lot of credit. Typical hostess gifts include wine, books, or seasonal scents, but it’s important to give them something they’ll love. You might not be able to express all your gratitude, but these gift ideas are sure to come close.  

 

Kitchenware

The kitchenware possibilities are endless. Not only can most pieces be put to good use, but a lot of them can make a hostess’s life easier too. Take the initiative of surveying what your hostess already owns, what they like to make, and they’re personal style. The answers to these questions and similar inquiries will lead you to choosing the perfect addition to your hostess’s kitchen.  

One piece of kitchenware that rarely disappoints is a finely crafted cheese board. Instead of gifting the typical wooden board, look for one made of luxurious or unique materials such as marble or slate. You might also consider giving your hostess a wine chiller for their table or counter. To turn the seemingly average into something special, search for decorative chillers that match your hostess’s home and personality.

 

Vases  

You can fill a beautiful vase with fresh flowers to make any hostess smile. As with all others, this gift should be personalized. If your hostess prefers modern design, gift them a vase that has clean lines, a monochrome palette, and a sleek finish. On the other hand, if your hostess leans toward vintage or rustic styles, look for vases that use metallics, vibrant pops of color, or texturizing elements.  

Regardless of the vase you choose, take note of your hostess’s favorite flowers. Others you might consider include daffodils, hellebores, cyclamen, or camellia, all which bloom wonderfully during the colder months. Another factor you should ponder is whether your hostess has an indoor or outdoor garden. This offers an alternative to the flower filled vase, which can be replaced by smaller pots to be filled with herb plants or petite foliage.

Bath & Body 

Lotions and potions are a popular hostess gift, but often one that misses the mark as well. To get this one right, it’s important to make sure your hostess will actually enjoy the scent. Observe the candles, essential oils, and other scented products they already have in their home to get a feel for what they like. If all else fails, choose something mild, light, and airy to avoid overloading your hostess’s senses.  

Show an added appreciation by giving you hostess a product with elevated luxury. Stone moisturizers, artisanal soaps, or handmade items are merely a few examples. Items that use essential oils that relieve stress, boost energy, or aid in sleep might be considered as well. Similarly, all-natural, vegan, and cruelty-free products should be included in your gift search, especially if these factors are important to your hostess.  

‘Tis the Season of Giving

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Shining a Light on Local Philanthropy

The holiday season brings forth many opportunities to give back to the larger community. Whether philanthropy is already one of your holiday traditions or a new introduction, here are some of the many local causes you should consider supporting this winter.  

 

Dear Santa

Benefitting the McNabb Center, “Dear Santa” is a program that provides children in need and their siblings with holiday gifts. Held annually, “Dear Santa” has been bringing joy to children and their families for over 20 years. Last year, the Center gave gifts and holiday parties to nearly 2,300 children and families in need across East Tennessee. If you’d like to contribute to the program, items are available for purchase through an Amazon Wish List linked on the Center’s “Dear Santa” website page. Individuals or groups may also sponsor a child to mark off everything on their specific wish list. 

 

Mission of Hope’s Cyber Barrel Christmas Drive  

Serving Appalachia’s less fortunate, this event collects items such as food, clothing, hygiene products, and gifts to be given to those in need. Mission of Hope hosts the Drive in partnership with local news outlets, Chick-fil-A, Barnes & Noble, and others to provide rural Appalachia with what they need most. To support this initiative, you can purchase items through one of their registries, which can be found on their website. You can also make a financial donation that Mission of Hope will use to purchase items. Finally, individuals can help by buying something from their “most needed” list and bringing them to the Mission of Hope office. 

News Sentinel Empty Stocking Fund

The Empty Stocking Fund is a 100% local, volunteer-run organization. Since 1912, this nonprofit, run by the Knoxville News Sentinel, has been feeding families in need during the holiday season. Recipients are given 40 total items including a 5-pound ham, cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, and enough staple food items to provide for Christmas dinner and other meals. Families with children ages 16 and under also receive a new toy and book. Last year, the Empty Stocking fund successfully delivered 2,000 baskets of food to those in need and have set the goal to be much higher this year. To support their initiative, several events are held throughout the season for fundraising and awareness-building. Volunteers and direct donations are always appreciated as well.  

 

Wrapping Reimagined

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Spice up this season by going beyond traditional wrapping

Whether you think gift wrapping is the best or the worst part of the holidays, you can spice up this season by going beyond traditional wrapping. Here are some tips and trends you can use to upgrade basic giftwrap and perfect your presentation.  

Matte Black 

When it comes to the holidays, matte black wrapping paper is a unique choice that offers an unexpected elegance to gift exchanges. This simple background provides a blank canvas that can be spruced up with twine and natural elements such as an evergreen sprig or pinecone “bow.”

Woven Ribbon

Curling ribbon is a familiar favorite, but a flat lattice design is a non-traditional accessory to add to your packages this year. Create contrast by weaving together different colors, patterns, and textures. From country chic to modern luxury, play around with combinations to find the mix that suits your holiday style. 

Monogram Tags

Identify the gift’s recipient with bold initial tags that can be made-to-order or made by hand. This is another opportunity to experiment with color and texture. Consider using glitter monograms for an added sparkle that will top off your gifts beautifully or keep it simple with vibrant red lettering to contrast neutral backgrounds.

 

Non-Traditional Paper

Skip the average store-bought wrapping paper and use an eye-catching alternative that will leave your family inspired. Newspaper, maps, and even sheet music can add a special appeal to your gifts’ presentation. You can collect these on your own or find vintage pieces online for extra nostalgia. 

Best-Kept Secret Spots to Visit This Fall

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Whether you’re planning on taking a vacation this fall or hoping to stay on the home front, autumn can turn any destination into an incredible, stunning scenery. Here are some lesser-known spots on the map worth visiting this year…

North Fork, Long Island, New York 

As the temperatures drop and the days become shorter, the North Fork, Long Island, transforms into the most popular time of year: harvest season.  

Home to over 55 vineyards, during harvest season there is plenty to do for visitors. Harbes Family Farm hosts a fall festival that includes pumpkin picking, hayrides, and even a scarecrow relay race and their apple cider doughnuts are a fall favorite.  

Driving through the North Fork is a great way to enjoy fall foliage, as the trees put on a show as the leaves turn vibrant from yellow to oranges to bright red. North Fork is one of the best fall vacations in the U.S.

Door County, Wisconsin 

Door County, Wisconsin, is a delight to visit in the fall! It’s not only a hotspot for fall foliage, but there are plenty of things to do there in the fall.  

The best way to experience the beauty of the area is a road trip. The Door County Coastal Bay beckons visitors and the historic Leathem and Smith Quarry site offers inviting views and access to shoreline cliffs on Lake Michigan.  

The Koepsel’s Farm Market features an incredible collection of tasty world products is a must-see attraction. King Island Lighthouse offers beautiful panoramic views, while the Door County Coffee and Tea Company offers a perfect cup of coffee for the crisp days of fall. 

Ouray, Colorado  

The historic mining town of Ouray is one of the best fall vacations in the U.S. It’s abundance of hiking opportunities and nearby geothermal activity has given it the nickname “Switzerland of America.”  

Ouray’s picturesque main street is backed by snow-capped mountains and the San Juan Forest. A bird’s eye view of the town can be had from the accessible Perimeter Trail. Box Canyon Park, located just outside of Ouray, boasts an 85-foot waterfall, while Cascade Falls Park offers a network of trails and waterfalls.  

A visit to Ouray must include a drive along the Million Dollar Highway. Stretching from Ouray to Silverton, the Million Dollar Highway is one of the most picturesque roads in the nation, and doubly so as the leaves change.

 

Oregon Scenic Byways

Oregon’s scenic byways and its 30 million acres of forest are the perfect places to view fall foliage. The entire state is filled to the brim with color and fun during September and October.  

A must-see is the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, where you can hike, bike, boat, and fish, surrounded by vibrant green forests dotted with red and orange hues offsetting in river’s turquoise water.  

The nearby Willamette Valley, the wine region of Oregon, offers fall harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and other fall fun. Additional, not to be missed natural attractions include Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, the Deschutes River Trail, Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, and Toketee Falls.  

Oregon is a perfect place to enjoy a crisp and colorful Fall. 

Be a Tourist in Your Own City

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Knoxville’s Hidden Gems 

We know you’re ready to get back out there. With the pandemic loosening its grip, this is the perfect opportunity to explore. We’re not talking about trips or vacations — We’re talking about Knoxville. The place we call home is filled with hidden gems. Whether you’ve lived here for two years or twenty, here’s a list of Knoxville’s best-kept secrets to visit this summer:  

 

Peter Kern Library

We can’t disclose too much about this swanky speakeasy, but here’s a hint: make your way to the Oliver Hotel in Downtown Knoxville and the front desk concierge will be your guide. Named after the father of Kern’s Bakery, this underground spot is nostalgically attractive. Expect to order drinks from old encyclopedias and bask in its uniquely luxurious atmosphere.  

 

Vida The Vault   

Located in the historic Holston Building on Gay Street, Vida The Vault is a Pan-Latin dining experience. Open for brunch and dinner, the restaurant features an eclectic menu that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Their lavish setting is accompanied with beautifully presented drinks and plates that make for one exquisite experience. 

Knoxville Botanical Gardens

What might be a familiar destination to locals may also hold some secrets of its own. The Knoxville Botanical Gardens is located on 47 acres of former Howell Nurseries — That’s a lot of ground to cover! Walking trails, gorgeous display gardens, and timeless buildings are merely a few examples of everything this spot has to offer. Whether you’re looking to take a guided tour or an afternoon walk, immerse yourself in its peaceful, serene environment. 

 

Blount Mansion 

History buffs, this one’s for you. Blount Mansion is Knoxville’s only National Historic Landmark and the city’s oldest operating museum. The Birthplace of Tennessee, home to the U.S. Constitution signer, William Blount, takes you back in time through the rich memories of our state’s upbringing. Awaken your appreciation for national, state, and local history through this inspirational site.  

 

Regardless of your plans, make sure to give “staycation” a spot on your summer bucket list. Adventure awaits right outside your door. Be your own trip advisor — Be a tourist in your own city.