Entertainment

Children’s play is a treasure

By Stephanie Edwards


Pirate costumes, tons of imagination and a lot of hard work were all important parts of the Children’s Theatre of Knoxville’s latest production — “Treasure Island USA.”
To say the very least, these kids had no shortage of imagination. Acting comes naturally for most children, and these kids take it to the next level. Written and directed by CTK Executive Director Zack Allen, the play is based on the classic novel “Treasure Island,” with a new kid-friendly twist.

Step back in time in Rugby

By Stephanie Edwards


The town of Rugby has been offering small town hospitality since its dedication on Oct. 5, 1880. Town founder Thomas Hughes, a British author and social reformer, hoped to make the town a wonderful place to live. During his opening address, Hughes said, “For we are about to open a new town here ... a new centre of human life, human thought, human activities ... in this strangely beautiful solitude.” This concept of creating a peaceful place to live is still celebrated in Rugby today.

By Stephanie Edwards


For 33 years, Gatlinburg has hosted the Craftsmen’s Fair. This year’s fair is being held from July 18-27 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, at traffic light #8 on the Parkway. Festival goers will enjoy viewing exhibitions and demonstrations by more than 200 craftspeople. Craftsmen are selected by a jury based on their work quality and unusual skills.  

Irish Festival goes green

Green is the traditional color of the Irish. This makes it fitting that the Irish Festival of Knoxville is going green (environmentally friendly.) The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on July 25-26 at World’s Fair Park.

Live close to nature at Callaway Gardens

Callaway Gardens was founded in 1952 to bring man closer to nature.The 13,000-acre Pine Mountain, Ga., resort has done just that with its 1,000 tropical butterflies, plants and birds.

Ott’s serves up vinegar-based barbeque

When a friend recommended that I do a review on Ott’s Bar-B-Q, he said the food was awesome but the restaurant was a hole-in-the-wall joint.

Wedding chapel owner is a sweetheart

In a world of greedy business people, it is rewarding to meet those whoare willing to help couples who are just starting their lives together. Jim Chambers, owner of the Sweetheart Riverside Wedding Chapel, emphasizes that he and his crew won’t turn any couple away.

Explore the Tennessee River Gorge

One-of-a-kind would be the most accurate way to describe the TennesseeAquarium’s newest attraction — the River Gorge Explorer.

Chattanooga’s Blue Plate Your home for comfort food

The capital of comfort food would be an excellent name for downtown Chattanooga’s Blue Plate. Imagine heaping portions of creamy macaroni and cheese, whipped potatoes and gravy and a huge slab of boneless fried chicken breast.

Flying Horse Grill offers a sweet ride

Most people have a childhood memory of riding a carousel. Perhaps this is the reason Pigeon Forge’s Flying Horse is popular among locals and visitors alike.

July 25th through the 27th:

The historic 16th annual Granger County Tomato Festival will be held at Rutledge High School.

July 18 through October 11th:

The Sunset Music Series, presented by The Great Smoky Moutain Heritage Center, continues with Blue Mother Tupelo on July 18, at 7 p.m.

Saturday, 19th:

WKXV will host it's 55th anniversary gospel concert at West High School at 6:30 p.m. 

Sunday, 20th:

A Civil War exhibition will be on display at the Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. 

Monday, 21st:

Knox Co. Museum of Education History are accepting vistors between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. at Knoxville High School.

Tuesday, 22nd:

Cumberland County Playhouse will host auditions for it's production of "South Pacific" at 5 p.m.