East Tennessee Residential Communities : Holrob Communities : Private Communities near Knoxville, Knox County, Blount County, Anderson County, Sevier County

The Regal Riviera 8 Theater opened one year ago this month (August 2007) in Knoxville's downtown. I'm happy to report that it is doing well, drawing customers not only to the theater itself, but to Knoxville's other downtown establishments. Regal Entertainment, which operates over 550 theaters in 39 states, is headquartered in Knoxville. While most of Regal's new theaters are larger and placed in suburban areas, the company responded to the public and private support for a downtown theater, the smallest and one of few downtown theaters it has built in recent years. Besides the company's commitment to its hometown, the historic importance of the actual site must have been an influence!


Photo by Michael Wender.

Located on Gay Street, the new Riviera "is on the same site as the original Riviera Theater established in 1920." While the original theater, which closed 32 years ago, first featured silent films, such as DeMille's Conrad in Search of His Youth and the works of Charlie Chaplan, over the next 40 years it would go on to show movies such as Charade and Gone with the Wind. In addition, "Like most theaters, the Riviera featured its share of live entertainment, from dancer Ginger Rogers to early jazz bands like the popular local orchestra Maynard Baird’s Southland Serenaders." After a 1963 fire and subsequent restoration, the original theater underwent many tough years of changed ownership and failed efforts. Finally, the building was torn down in the late 1980s and converted to a parking lot. As part of the city's revitalization movement, several local leaders decided to push for a new Riviera. Two years and $14.85 million in public and private funding made the decision a reality. Today's Riviera features first-run releases and offers over "2,000 seats in a total of 8 auditoriums. Regal patrons can enjoy free parking with validation anytime at the State Street Parking Garage." What's showing? Click here. For more information about Knoxville's downtown, submit your inquiry here.

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Revitalization and redevelopment aren't just buzzwords in Knoxville. With Market Square's successful revitalization, new retail and restaurants on Gay Street and in the Old City, and the South Waterfront redevelopment underway, officials have turned their attention to North Knoxville, moving forward with plans for the "Downtown North"  redevelopment. The plan is ambitious, involving "the second-largest redevelopment area ever identified in the city."


Photo by J. Miles Cary.

The plans include recreating the North Central Avenue corridor "as a mixed-use area ripe for new retail, commercial and residential investment," and narrowing of certain parts of Central Avenue to create a two lane street that will allow "more room for a pedestrian-friendly streetscape with bicycle lanes, wider sidewalks and on-street parking." This plan is to work in conjunction with the redevelopment of Broadway Avenue, which crosses North Central at the historic Fourth and Gill residential area (see page 2 for a map of that area; click here for maps of the downtown area and the City of Knoxville).

Although new development in the extended North Knoxville area has been among the most active in recent years, redevelopment of the area which connects downtown to it has been slower. While the Fourth and Gill and Old North Knoxville neighborhoods have enjoyed a growing popularity with renovations to their historic homes and the formation of strong neighborhood associations, the businesses and properties along Central and Broadway remained in decline. This redevelopment plan targets those areas, which will ultimately extend the downtown's successful revitalization by linking it to the nearby historic neighborhoods and, eventually, to the new development further to the north. The result will be a continuous and integrated mixed-use area with a focus on green spaces, economic development, and preservation of the area's historic resources. Although it will take several years before the area is fully transformed, several businesses are already improving their buildings' facades while investors are purchasing and renovating existing apartments. As one developer said, "It's coming. … It's come quite a way in just the last year." Want to know more about Knoxville development? Submit your inquiry here.

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Not having grown up with the Internet, some of us are still a bit stymied by the complexity of social networking sites such as MySpace, Facebook, and Linkedin. With the exception of the latter, these media have the sometimes-reputation that they are for kids who have the time on their hands to keep up with their personal pages and friend requests, along with the willingness to share details about themselves that those over 40 tend to hold close to the chest. What is often overlooked is the utility of social networking sites for grown-ups: moms, retirees, businesses, and other organizations. Additionally, folks who are relocating may find networking sites useful in keeping up with friends and family. Following are some network sites of interest with a short explanation of their intended utility.


Photo by luc legay.

For the uninitiated, a word of advice - Jump in. It looks much more complicated than it is! Most sites provide user-friendly templates to help you set up your own page along with support if you get stuck. All sites have a search bar to help you find other pages of interest; try searching by location, subject, or other keyword. You may get something that you didn't ask for in your search results so be prepared for that. Also, know that you don't have to have an established page to browse. Some sites require you to log in but you can register without working on your own page.

MySpace allows you to design unique pages and post information about yourself or your organizations. You can accept email, set your page to private, or leave it public for all to see. The "friend" section is populated by you; people will send you friend requests and you can choose whether you want to accept them. If you find a MySpace page that interests you, you can often find similar pages or interests by clicking on their friends' pictures. The VolNation has a page as does the Knoxville Coliseum.

Facebook was once a college networking site but now works a lot like MySpace and seems to be gaining popularity. Some say that it tends to have a more grown-up feel and tone than MySpace which they are leaving to the youngsters. Knoxville's United Way has its own page as does Songs of Appalachia, a group that features musicians from East Tennessee. If you look to the right side of their page, you can find related groups that might interest you, like Knoxville's Sundown in the City. Even our governor, Phil Bredesen, has a page on Facebook! Again, use the search bar to find groups or individuals that interest you.

Other sites aren't as well-known but are gaining popularity within specific groups. "Three focused communities have been growing rapidly this year: CafeMom, a network for mothers, Daily Strength, a support community for those with health issues and other life problems, and Eons, a social network for the 50+ set." For a list of 2007's twenty top social networking sites, click here. For another explanation of social networking sites, click here.

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As American consumers are spending more on food, fuel, and commodities and economic analysts ponder recession, East Tennessee has been spared many of the worst economic challenges. While other areas suffer job losses and business closings, Knox and its surrounding counties has fared pretty well - the Knoxville Metropolitan Area has the lowest unemployment rate in the state. One reason for this is corporate business expansions. For instance, "Green Mountain Coffee Roasters plans to open an East Knox County plant, engineering firm SAIC is moving at least 150 jobs to Oak Ridge, and VW is building a $1 billion plant in Chattanooga that will employ 2,000 workers and likely spawn feeder business in our area." From January 2007 to January 2008, the Knoxville Metropolitan Area added 5,950 jobs, with 4,040 jobs added in Knoxville alone. Knox County's unemployment rate in 2007 was down a half point from 2006 and its median household income was 108 percent of the state's median. In addition, the county's population grew by 11 percent from 2000-2007.


Photo by Suffering the Benz.

In addition to corporate expansion, the area's diversified economy has helped to insulate against economic instability. For example, expansions in health care brought 1,600 health-related jobs to the state in 2007 while providing construction companies with non-residential work. Many of those jobs are located in Knox County. Also, Oak Ridge National Laboratories, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the University of Tennessee, and local schools offer stable government jobs to many area residents. Of the various sectors, near-term growth is expected to continue in "construction, durable and nondurable goods manufacturing, wholesale/retail trade, finance/insurance/real estate and education." A 2006 breakdown of employment by sector can be found here. All of this means that the region has suffered less than many others and our local business leaders are optimistic that there will be a quick recovery once the national economy stabilizes. For more information on the economic opportunities available in the Knoxville area, submit your inquiries here.

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This week's Knoxville Business Journal includes an article on how baby boomers are looking to maintenance free options in their next phase of home purchase.

Josh Flory, who wrote this blog entry earlier in June, penned the article:

As the baby boom generation enters its retirement years, developers see a market among seniors who want to ditch the hassles of home ownership but are still willing to pay a premium price for their abode.
...
Perhaps more importantly, the developers are aiming at a market that doesn’t want to be bothered with mowing the yard or mulching the flower beds. “I think there is a growing … interest in condominiums,” Howard said. “I think people — particularly kind of the market segment that we’re targeting, people downsizing or moving out of larger single-family homes — don’t really look as much at another single-family home.”

Find out more information on The Enclave or other Holrob Communities.

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Across the country, many are trading in their retirement plans for new careers. Studies have shown that a growing number of Americans prefer to continue working beyond the traditional retirement age of 65: "In 2006, nearly 30% of Americans ages 65 to 69 belonged to the workforce, up from 18% in 1985, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute." In addition, a "recent survey by Thrivent Financial of adults ages 45 to 64 found that 43% overall — and nearly half of all men — plan to work full or part time in retirement." Many of these people will leverage their skills, experiences, and even hobbies into a business of their own, joining "an expanding army of workers who continue working long after they become eligible for Social Security benefits." Now why the heck would they do that? Extra income, a sense of purpose, and longer and healthier life spans top the list.


Photo by Erik Mallinson.

For many, starting a microbusiness is the answer. "A microbusiness is a small business with fewer than five employees (including the owner) and less than $35,000 in start-up costs." Most microbusinesses operate out of the owner's home and have no employees at all, the owners choosing to outsource needed services rather than hire and manage employees. Successful microbusinesses have included a wide variety of goods and services. Some examples include child care, house cleaning, delivery services, catering, web design, consulting, writing and editing.

Like any business, a significant key to success is location. Not only will a good location offer sufficient resources to help with planning and funding needs, a good location will also have a growing and diverse population, a stable economy, an affordable cost of living, and an expansive talent and customer pool. Knoxville has all of these. Ranking fifth (out of 200 competitors) on Forbes' 2007 list of Best Places for Business and Careers, Knoxville enjoys a unique mix of creative and educated citizens, low costs of business and living, high technology, low taxes, and great cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. For a quick reference sheet offering area statistics and many other awards and achievements click here. For further inquiries submit your questions here.

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For a limited time, Holrob has agreed to lease this luxury home located in The Cove at Turkey Creek.

11223 MATTHEWS COVE $769,000 or $4,000 / mo. Main-level master bedroom High ceilings Rear courtyard 4 Bedrooms 3 1/2 Baths 3,316 Square feet Contact us

Contact us or call (865) 342-8700 for more information on this opportunity.

www.flickr.com

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After furnishing the model for the Grand Opening, we wanted to share the video tour of the home with you. Enjoy!

If you would like to receive more information about The Enclave, please click here and let us know.

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In his latest book, Who's Your City, best selling author Richard Florida claims that where you choose to live is more important than ever before. Florida points out that economic activity, innovation, types of people, and creativity is concentrated in relatively few places and that those places will offer better jobs, quality of life, and services. Florida uses a series of maps to show how the world's population is distributed, and where the most productive and creative people live and the strongest economies are in the United States. The Southeast shows prominently on these maps.

 

Photo by sleepless aquarius.

Florida recommends considering a number of factors when deciding on a new community - opportunity and basic services are among the most important. The Knoxville Metropolitan Statistical Area, home to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the University of Tennessee, and numerous medical and technology-based businesses, reflects our government and community leadership's commitment to quality economic development and quality of life. Recent awards and rankings speak for themselves:

• 2008 - Knoxville ranked 4th on the "Best Cities for Relocating Families" list for Mid-Size Markets. Source: Worldwide ERC and Primacy Relocation May 2008

• 2008 - Metropolitan Knoxville named No. 10 on the list of Forbes Magazine "Best Places for Business and Careers." Source: Forbes Magazine March 2008

• 2007 - Expansion Management magazine named the Knoxville Metropolitan area 3rd among all mid-sized cities in the nation in its annual "Best Metro for Business and Expansion" competition. Source: Expansion Management Magazine August 2007.

• 2007 - Boating Life Magazine named Knoxville as one of the "10 Best Places to Live And Boat." Source: Boating Life Magazine July 2007

• 2007 - Metropolitan Knoxville named No. 5 on the list of the best metro areas for business and careers by Forbes Magazine. Source: Forbes Magazine April 2007.

• 2007 - Knoxville ranked 1st on the "Best Cities for Relocating Families" list. Source: Worldwide ERC and Primacy Relocation May 2007

• 2007 - Expansion Management magazine named Knoxville one of "America's 50 Hottest Cities," cities that are best places to expand or relocate a business. Source: Expansion Management Magazine February 2007.

If you would like more information about Knoxville, click here and request more information.

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A recent post by Patrick Beeson on Knoxify inspired me share a few of my favorite non-chain Knoxville coffee shops. Knoxville certainly has its share of Starbuck's and Panera Breads - you can find a decent cup of coffee on any corner - but I prefer to support the locals whenever I can. To establish expertise: I drink it 'black and bitter,' as an ex-boyfriend says they put it in the Navy. The thing about drinking coffee black is that it really does require better quality, so my 'good cup standard' could be higher than some. You can sweeten, cream, froth, and flavor bad coffee and it becomes a completely different beverage, as another ex-boyfriend used to say. Bad coffee can get away with a lot incognito. But it's hard to find a cup of really good coffee... the kind that needs no tampering... the kind you can drink black. Knoxville offers some possibilities; I'll share some of my favorites.

 

Photo by jeneyepher.

Beeson gave his take on the new shop, Coffee and Chocolate, on Market Square. I stopped in about a month ago and my experience was much like Beeson's: I had a tasty cup of coffee and dessert, appreciated the urban feel, wondered about the minimal seating, but appreciated the coziness. It's a downtown shop and it gives us what we want - a solid cup of coffee; a hip place to hang out; and a respectable addition to the montage of downtown establishments. Other downtown possibilities: Old City Java or the Cafe Gourmet Coffee Shop at the Knoxville Visitor's Center.

Beeson mentioned The Golden Roast which is at the University of Tennessee campus. Because I both attended and taught at UT, I've had more coffee there than I'd like to admit. Coffee quality used to be hit and miss - weaker some days than others -but they've become more consistent in the past few years. It's a cozy college and professor hang-out with wi-fi, typically quiet, with several seating arrangements for individual and group work. Also in the campus area is Sunspot; you might as well stay for lunch while you're there. This restaurant is a Knoxville favorite with friendly service, great food, and an easy atmosphere.

Continue West on Kingston Pike to the Homberg area and you'll find Cosmo's Cafe at the Gourmet's Market. The market itself is worth the trip with specialty food and cooking items that can't be found anywhere else in town. The cafe has indoor and outdoor seating, serves sandwiches, soups, and Sunday brunch. I've been drinking Cosmo's coffee for 14 years and haven't had a bad cup yet.

Another favorite is Maple Grove Coffee on Northshore Drive (formerly Smoky Mountain Coffee). This shop roasts its beans on-site; I think it's the only coffee shop that roasts in Knoxville. The owners also own the Maple Grove Inn, a recommended bed and breakfast for out-of-towners. The atmosphere is a bit stark, more of a lunch cafe feel than a coffee shop; I've never felt the urge to hang out there. But the staff are great and the coffee more than makes up for the lack in decor. Grab a bag of beans for the house while you're there.

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A June 8 New York Times article described Knoxville by some familiar nicknames: Knoxvegas, K-town, Knoxpatch. For the record, we also recognize Vol Country, Big Orange Country, and others conveniently compiled by Byron, but not this: "Knoxville is often called “the couch” by the people who live there." The couch. What?!

Upon publication, it took no time at all for the blogosphere to hum with peeved reactions, all well worth the read. I wondered: if Knoxville were a couch, what type would it be? Certainly not my grandmother's sofa, an ancient affair with little to offer the eye or rump, upholstered in a bland brocade, the hump on its back a pretentious salute to the past. Grandma's sofa offers no indication that you should stay for long, rather, it sweetly sends the opposite message: you're a visitor, don't spill your drink, and cross your legs at the ankle. Knoxville wouldn't be my son's couch, either... a salute to All Things College, an item in disrepair destined for a May 2010 trash heap - and none too soon! It wouldn't be the overstuffed, self-important monstrosity that I recently saw in a store window while traveling. The schizophrenic fabric was pulled tightly over the fill like a drum set to explode. And it wouldn't be what the Times portrayed: "too unassuming to shout about but too comfortable to leave," a statement that conjures images of a frumpy old clunker that woos one into passivity.

To be fair, Knoxville is comfortable and easy to love. But the city's Southern charm, quality of life, and gracious people have made Knoxville a popular place to move: Knoxville added over 100,000 new residents from 1990 to 2000. These people aren't coming to town to settle into a spud-like trance, they are coming for the city's culture, creativity, innovation and technology, educational opportunities, and beauty. We're a growing, vibrant city: "Metropolitan Knoxville is No. 10 on the latest list (Forbes) of the best metro areas for business and careers." As with all cities, there's room for improvement, absolutely...but Knoxville's no unassuming couch.

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What started as a single concert for local fans over a decade ago has evolved into the revitalization of Knoxville’s downtown.  Every Thursday night for 12 weeks from April to July, Sundown in the City provides free concerts for an average crowd of 10,000 people. 


Produced by A.C. Entertainment, this series features local talent like Artvandalay, Robinella, and Todd Steed and the Suns of Phere as well as national headliners like George Thorogood, Steve Winwood, and Presidents of the United States of America.  John Mayer was also once an opening act.  Sundown in the City attracts a diverse group of followers:  college students, young families, and senior citizens from all over East Tennessee.  Their presence has boosted the economy of downtown Knoxville, especially the venue for the series, Market Square.  Lined with many great shops and restaurants, Market Square is the perfect place for an evening of free music, local cuisine, and a chance to relax and catch up with friends.

Local Openers:
Erick Baker
Artvandalay
Christabel and the Jons
Dirty Guv'nahs
Mic Harrison and the High Score
Todd Steed and the Suns of Phere
Robinella
*John Mayer was an opening act long before anyone knew who he was.  Not a local opening act, but an opening act, nonetheless!

Headliners:
Robert Earl Keen
George Thorogood
Umphrey's McGee
Presidents of the United States of America
They Might Be Giants
Steve Winwood
Marc Broussard
Citizen Cope
Imogen Heap
Edwin McCain
The Wailers
Drive-By Truckers
Brazilian Girls

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 Most major cities have a weekly or bi-weekly alternative paper meant to offer different perspectives on, and even dispute, the reporting of the major dailies. Knoxville's alternative paper is the Metro Pulse. Like so many great Knoxville ideas, the Metro Pulse was hashed out over pizza at The Tomato Head  in Market Square. Seeking first to provide an entertainment guide and calendar to the UT and downtown crowd, the Metro Pulse has evolved to include feature stories and quality news reporting with an alternative flair. With weekly columns such as Jack Neely’s Secret History, which offers an historic perspective on today's Knoxville, and the news and coverage sections such as Ear to the Ground, covering state and local political news, and Eye on the Scene, featuring entertainment news, the Pulse has carved out a steady and devoted Knoxville readership.

 

The Pulse entered the Knoxville media scene in 1991. It wasn't long, however, that one of Knoxville's two daily papers, the Knoxville Journal, foundered, leaving the Knoxville News Sentinel as the sole paper. (The Journal has since been brought back into publication.) People began to turn to the Pulse for its occasional reporting on local stories, creating a demand for a more. Whittle Communication’s 1994 layoffs provided quality writers to the Pulse, helping to expand coverage and capacity, and Joe Sullivan’s 1992 purchase of the paper (he once wrote for the Wall Street Journal) set the Metro Pulse up for a successful future. What started as a bi-weekly paper, the Metro Pulse moved to weekly publication in 1995, the year after it published its first Best of Knoxville survey, which has been conducted annually since. The paper's 1996 website launch expanded its readership and exposure to the world, generating email from "France, Hong Kong, even Iraq." Awards began to mount, along with the impressive careers of the staff writers and artists. Today, readership of 35,000 looks to the Metro Pulse for its "in-depth reporting, unrestrained critical writing, and simply the best arts and entertainment calendar in town." In 2007 Scripps, the owner of Knoxville News Sentinel, acquired Metro Pulse. Since that time, Metro Pulse has remained autonomous and loyal to its devoted readership.

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Knoxville's vibrant growth and development has helped to bring national attention to the region. Says Garrett Wagley of the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership: "The greatest benefit of the national rankings is that they place Knoxville in the national spotlight. They call attention to Knoxville among the nation’s largest companies and among those companies that might be looking to expand."

Knoxville's National Rankings

• Best Cities for Relocating Families (2008, 2007) - Worldwide ERC and Primary Relocation - #4, #1
• Best Place for Recent College Graduates (2006) - Economic Research Institute - #1 of 206 reviewed
• Best Metros for Business and Expansion (2007) - Business Expansion Magazine  - #3
• America's 50 Hottest Cities for Business Relocation & Expansion (2007, 2006, 2005) - Business Expansion Magazine - #23, #9, #14 of 50
• America's Most Affordable Travel Destinations (2006) – Hotwire.com - #4 of 50
• Knoxville - Best Cities to Do Business in America (2005) – Inc Magazine - #7 of 274
• Best Overall Business Climate (State Ranks, 2005) – Site Selection Magazine - #5 of 50
• Best Places for Affordable Living (2005) – Sperling’s Best Places - #8 of 32
• Best Places for Business & Career (2008, 2006, 2005) – Forbes Magazine - #10, #5, #17 of 200
• Best Places to Retire (2006) – Money Magazine - #10 of 100
• Top Mid-Size City Boom Towns (for Job Growth, 2006) – Inc Magazine - #23 of 60
• States With A Strong Workforce Training Program (2006) – Expansion Magazine - #6 of 50
• 3rd best places to live and boat in the country by Boating Life magazine.

This national attention and the dedication of area government, business, and community leaders has resulted in a steady increase in jobs for the region. A regional economic development campaign meant to coordinate public and private support was launched in 2002. Jobs Now! was charged with "creating 35,000 net new jobs, growing non-residential capital investment to $2.5 billion, and increasing the average annual wage to $40,908" within five years. Funded by 170 public and private investors, Jobs Now! members support economic development by actively marketing the region and coordinating responses to business inquiries. The investors also support capital improvements and higher wages for regional employees. National attention and their efforts have done much for the region: At the end of year four, the program "had reached 109% of its five-year goal of 35,000 net new jobs and 141% of the five-year capital investment goal of $2.5B."

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A number of our clients tell us that they worked for years to build a bigger home, and now they simply want less—less space, less maintenance, less headaches.  Downsizing for many is an act of liberation that frees them from unnecessary responsibilities and allows them to be free to travel or do as they please.



As we compile information about this transition, it is apparent that the move to a smaller home is a major life adjustment, which is teeming with excitement and some apprehension. Holrob Communities is preparing a symposium/workshop that details many of the considerations and helpful tips when downsizing, and we would like to hear from you.

Let us know your comments here.

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People fall in love with Knoxville for many reasons, but it doesn't take long for the city to feel like home. Folks who leave Knoxville often save their moving boxes, suspecting that they'll soon return - and they frequently do. Others save the trouble of packing and settle in to become passionate about the city, like Brandon Clarke and Casey Peters at Knoxify. The two have dedicated themselves to blogging all things social, political, and cultural in and about Knoxville - interviewing county commissioners, reporting on local events, and offering advice on topics from where to get the best coffee to the best insurance deals. A recent post pays homage to their top ten favorite things about Knoxville - and readers followed up with top ten lists of their own. From past leadership to entertainment, dining, and the surrounding area, for an insider's uncensored take on what makes Knoxville great, I can offer no better source.


Photo by dkolbay

But Knoxify isn't the only blog touting Knoxville's virtues. In fact, the area's lively and prolific blogging community is lively and vast, nicely reflecting the city's population, culture, and vitality. To get started, visit the Knoxville Blog Network which aggregates various blogs into one forum for a one-stop experience. Also, the local paper, The Knoxville News Sentinel, offers blogs written by News Sentinel employees on a variety of topics. Recently, a great News Sentinel article gave a quick run-down of the various blogs that are signed up on the Knoxville Blog Network, complete with links to the sites. The topics and titles of these blogs show what those of us who live here already know: The city is filled with creativity, wit, and a wide range of interests. Thinking about moving to Knoxville? Browsing the area's blogs is a great way to learn more about our wonderful city!

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When an East Tennessean wants to eat out, he or she definitely has options. Knoxville has almost every chain restaurant along with some  beloved  local favorites and world renowned restaurants. With all of these choices there are some standouts.



For an elegant dinner, Knoxville offerings range from the nationally renowned steakhouses Ruth’s Chris and Fleming’s to the local treasures of the Orangery and Copper Cellar. Fresh seafood can be enjoyed a Bonefish or Chesapeake’s.  At these intimate venues, patrons enjoy exceptional food and wine all in an intimate setting.
The local flavor is also shown in the family owned Connor Concept restaurants and Calhouns. These East Tennessee favorites all feature recipes that have been passed down through the generations.
Along with local flavor, Knoxville has numerous international options. Naples and Bravo’s reflect the finest food from across Italy.   P.F. Chang’s and Nama provide quality Asian dining.  Mexican food can be enjoyed at Cha Cha and Aubelos and many more.
Along with the different types of food, Knoxville also offers different venues.   East Tennesseans can enjoy a nice dinner anywhere from the vibrant downtown or along the peaceful Tennessee River or right in the local neighborhood.
All of these restaurants are perfect for a Saturday night, weekday treat or nice lunch/brunch. The best thing about Knoxville restaurants is most of the time you do not have to worry about long waits and  long term reservations.  Most of these charming places you can walk right in and enjoy. 

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Meant to boost regional tourism and Knoxville’s economy, the Knoxville Convention Center has proven a successful addition to the city. In the late 1990s, city planners, developers, citizens, and leaders began to discuss the construction of a public attraction to draw visitors to the area. The goal was to identify a project that had just the right mix of cost and benefits that would result in extra tax revenue and jobs. While other cities have opted for sports arenas and stadiums, planetariums or aquariums, Knoxville, drawing on its central location, environmental beauty, and Southern hospitality, settled on a convention center. Upon its opening in 2002, the city anxiously waited while the convention center built its clientele and reputation, efforts which have reaped a positive economic impact of $288 million since 2002, certainly justifying this $93 million construction.

The convention center has won national awards for quality service. Last year, nearly 380,000 people attended meetings, conferences, weddings, and shows at the center; their satisfaction and endorsements have helped to increase convention center bookings by 81 percent from the 2005-06 to the 2006-07 fiscal year. Some of the center’s highlights? Fourteen meeting rooms which seat from 100-460 in theater style; a 27,000+ square foot ballroom which can be divided into six break-out rooms; a nearly 120,000 square foot exhibit hall, which can be divided into two spaces; three luxury conference rooms; a 460 seat lecture hall; and first class amenities including a business center and full kitchen services.

The 500,000 square foot convention center is located in the heart Knoxville, adjacent to the 1982 World’s Fair site which has recently been renovated into a beautiful park. The park’s meticulously groomed festival and performance lawns, an interactive water fountain that produces a “stories-high geyser,” and man-made lakes and streams provide a beautiful setting for the modern structure. A short walk away is Knoxville’s downtown, Market Square, and the Old City, featuring great restaurants, shopping, and night life opportunities.

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European flair took over downtown Knoxville on Saturday, April 19th, during the Rossini Festival.  This East Tennessee tradition celebrates the sounds of classical Opera and the tastes of Italian cuisine. The festival was filled with activities ranging from world-renowned opera performances, wine tasting, and art exhibitions. 

Flickr photo by Jon Gustin

Walking down Gay Street on     Saturday, you might have forgotten you were in Knoxville because it was  transformed into a classic Italian Street fair.  People soaked up the culture from noon to nine.  There were three different stages spotlighting various different entertainment.  People took in one of the performances while strolling through the Artesian Market. It was one tempting walk!  The area was flooded with the smells of authentic Mediterranean food.  It truly was a day for the whole family because kids loved playing in the special children area.
The festival culminated in a grand production of Tosca on Friday night and Sunday at the newly renovated Tennessee Theatre. This vibrate show about the life of famous Opera singer Floria Tosca, mesmerized the audiences with a tale of lust, love greed, corruption and mystery.
The Rossini Festival is just one of many exciting cultural activities happening this spring in East Tennessee.  The third annual Jazz Festival starts on April 25th and is a can’t miss event for jazz lovers. The event will blend classic and modern jazz together for extraordinary weekend filled with unforgettable performances.
   

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Every spring, thousands of people pour into Market Square to hear the varied sounds of national artists at Sundown in the City, Knoxville's free concert series.

Sundown in the City began in 1997 with a concert by R.B. Morris and Scott Miller on Market Square. However, in 2000, Sundown in the City was turned into a series.

A.C. Entertainment announced today that Galactic, a New Orleans funk band, takes the stage April 17.


by spcoon

• April 17: Galactic with Garage Deluxe
• April 24: Susan Tedeschi with Todd Steed and the Suns of Phere
• May 1: Umphrey's McGee
• May 8: Josh Ritter and the Hackensaw Boys
• May 15: North Mississippi All Stars
• May 22: The Presidents of the United States of America with Cutthroat Shamrock
• May 29: Robert Earl Keen with Jypsi June
• June 5: (not yet booked)
• June 12: Citizen Cope
• June 19: Marc Broussard with Erick Baker
• June 26: The Everybodyfields and Amy LaVere
• July 3: The Wild Magnolias

Sundown in the City is always a good time.  If for no other reason than just to people watch. We will bring updates throughout the concert season this year.  Let us know your thoughts on the shows by commenting.

by shaneandruth

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Knoxville continues to remain in the top cities in the country to conduct business.

Knoxville is again among the best cities in the country to do business, according to Forbes magazine’s 2008 rankings released Wednesday.

As we are well aware of here at Holrob Communities, the cost of living in Knoxville is among the lowest in the nation.  This and the general cost of doing business in Knoxville were chief among the reasons for this honor.

The magazine cited the region’s relatively low business costs — 14 percent below the national average — as one of Knoxville’s strengths.

Good work!

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Since 1960, Knoxville has hosted the Dogwood Arts Festival each April. Today, people from all over the nation come to celebrate nature and the arts as festivities span seventeen days, over one hundred and fifty activities, and two counties! The city’s fantastic dogwoods remain the central focus with blossoms that can reach nearly four inches in length, rivaling Maryland’s famous dogwoods. While most of Knoxville’s dogwoods are white, our pink dogwoods are especially vibrant; the deep pink, almost red, color is caused by the natural acidity in our soil. Other varieties include a native pale pink dogwood and a “weeping” dogwood, similar to the weeping cherry tree.

While tours have been conducted since the Sequoyah Hills Trail opened 1955, other trails throughout the region have been added over the years; there are nine dogwood trails today spanning seventy miles and two counties. When I was a child, signs indicated the trails’ entrances and large pink or white spots were painted on the roads to lead the way. Today, self-guided motor-tourists follow pink and green lines, taking photographs, pacing themselves, often stopping for closer looks. Guided bus tours are also available and, for walkers, the historic Fourth and Gill Victorian neighborhood tour is a popular activity.

Also part of the celebration is a three-day festival held on Market Square in downtown Knoxville. Over one hundred arts, crafts, and food vendors crowd into the newly renovated, historic space to sample East Tennessee’s cuisine, culture, and creations. Shoppers will find everything from homemade soaps to hand-blown glass, and artisan jewelry to rare books. Many of Knoxville’s restaurants and caterers participate; one can find edibles ranging from funnel cakes and famous local bar-b-que to gourmet coconut shrimp and crispy spanikopita. Adding to the festivities, musical events are scheduled each year featuring a variety of musical styles from classical to country.

Last year, the festival introduced Art in Public Spaces, a sponsored display that continued throughout the month of July. Located in Krutch Park, adjacent to Market Square, the exhibit featured the large-scale work of twelve artists. Other artwork was available for viewing at more than fifteen galleries throughout Knoxville’s downtown area. Gallery Walk, was a one-night event in which artists were available and visitors were encouraged to mingle and browse.

There’s so much more! A parade, a jazz concert, children’s activities, and literary events hosted by the Knox County Public Library – there really is something for everyone. In the tradition of the South, the Dogwood Arts Festival brings people together with food and fun, music, nature, and friendship.

Check out the 2008 Dogwood Arts calendar here.

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Recently, a customer wanted specific information about the golf courses located in the Knoxville area and East Tennessee more generally. In the process of researching, we found that East Tennessee boasts a proud portfolio of world-class golf courses. With more than 50 golf courses within a 30 minute radius of Knoxville, the area holds challenging holes for even the most skilled players.

Take a look at the map of golf courses in East Tennessee.



If

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One of the top ten hobbies in the United States is genealogy! Although no one is sure what started the trend, Americans are becoming more and more interested in exploring their family history and are travelling to town halls, libraries, and genealogy centers, and researching the Internet for answers. Knoxville’s East Tennessee History Center is a popular destination for researchers with family roots in the region. Situated on the corner of Gay and Clinch Streets, across from the historic Tennessee Theater, the Center serves as a sort of clearinghouse for regional history. The building was renovated in 2004 to house three organizations that are dedicated to preserving this history: The East Tennessee Historical Society, the Knox County Archives, and the Calvin M. McClung Historical Collection of the Knox County Public Library.

 

The first floor of the History Center is dedicated to exhibits and lecture rooms. The museum offers permanent and changing exhibits that “focus on the rich history and heritage of East Tennessee, as well as unique traveling exhibits from the Smithsonian and other venues.” For genealogists, the Historical Society offers workshops nearly every Saturday on genealogy-related topics such as Genealogy on the Internet, Beginning and Intermediate Genealogy, as well as topical lectures such as Cherokee Genealogy, Revolutionary War Genealogy, and using County Records as resources.

 

Housed in the same building on the second and third floors are the Knox County Public Library’s McClung Historical Collection and the Knox County Archives which offer historical documents and government records dating from the late 1700s. Most of the collection has been preserved on microfilm for easy access. Birth and death records